A new tradition began at TFS with the Class of 2023. Since then, each 8th-grade student has designed and decorated a fabric square that becomes part of a larger class quilt. When the squares are stitched together, they create a beautiful picture of the class, reminding them of who they were during their time at The Franciscan School.

Each square on the quilt reflects something meaningful to the student who created it, such as a sports team they played on or musical instruments they mastered. Others highlight favorite memories, such as class trips or beloved traditions. Some squares include expressions of faith and love, or even a handprint and signature. No two squares are the same, which is what makes the project so special.

The idea for the quilt came from Principal Dawn Smith, who wanted to create a tradition that would allow students to leave their mark while honoring the TFS community. “This has become a meaningful tradition that symbolizes how our graduates leave connected to one another and always part of The Franciscan School,” shares Smith.

That sense of connection is evident in where the quilts hang. Displayed in the back stairwell of the Sienna building, affectionately dubbed “Alumni Hall” by Dean of Student Engagement Colette Dziadul, the quilts serve as a daily reminder of previous students. “This is such a wonderful tradition and one that becomes more valuable each year, “Dziadul says.”

The project is a collaborative effort. Led by 8th-grade Team Lead Alan Johnston, the entire team of 8th-grade teachers guides students as they brainstorm, design, and create their squares during designated class time. The first two quilts were sewn by teacher Kristen Dellasega, and this year, Kathy Eberhardt will provide instructions for assembling the quilt and stitching the newest class’s squares together.

Johnston reflects on the impact of the project: “We really love this tradition, and it becomes more valuable each year with the addition of every new quilt.”

What began just a few years ago is already becoming part of the fabric of TFS history. As current 8th graders begin sketching ideas and adding life to their squares, they are contributing to what makes our school so special, and now they are a part of the story!