Catholic Social Teaching (CST) at The Franciscan School invites students to put their faith into action by serving others and recognizing their responsibility to the community around them.

That vision is at the heart of TFS’ CST Student Ambassador Program, which began in the 2025-2026 school year. The goal is to give middle school students greater opportunities to lead and plan the school’s CST days. Students take an active role in bringing the Church’s social teachings to life, encouraging classmates to see how their faith shapes how they treat others and respond to needs.

“The Catholic Social Teaching Ambassador Program encourages students to engage in service and leadership grounded in CST principles,” said Middle School Counselor Virginia Blum. “Through their involvement, students develop empathy and compassion, deepen their understanding of and involvement in their community, and connect their faith to real-life experiences.”

The Ambassadors’ work includes sharing information about CST; they also help build anticipation and participation around CST Days, “an important lesson in spreading the Good Word,” Mrs. Blum shared.

As part of their responsibilities, ambassadors introduce upcoming CST principles during morning prayer, which helps students connect the teachings to situations they encounter in their lives. They also welcome guests to campus during CST Days and help coordinate activities, giving them a behind-the-scenes role in making these experiences happen.

The CST Ambassador Program helps students recognize and appreciate the value of service through their own involvement and by observing the people who generously give of their time to help others. Mrs. Blum said the Ambassadors have developed a deeper appreciation for community volunteers and the important role they play in meeting others' needs.

“Seeing students take on leadership roles as CST Ambassadors truly embodies the goals we have for all of our TFS students: to lead, live, and learn as faithful members of their communities,” Mrs. Blum said.

Through the CST Ambassador Program, students are discovering that leadership doesn’t always mean taking charge. Sometimes it means welcoming someone new, or encouraging a classmate to participate, or taking the time to serve someone else.

These small moments help bring Catholic Social Teaching to life in ways students can carry with them well beyond their time at TFS.