Most children throughout the Sandhills have shelved thoughts of school days along with math books, pencil cases and book bags, choosing to focus instead on long days of swimming or playing with friends. Yet, local department stores are filling their aisles with glue sticks, spiral binders and crayons. Teachers are readying classrooms and parents are counting down to the return of the fall routine.

At Pope John Paul II Catholic School, it's our favorite time of year.

"Each school year brings new opportunities to reach out to children, their families and the community. Our school is committed to offering a safe, academically challenging environment that celebrates the unique abilities of every child," explains Aimee Viana, principal.

When students return to PJPII this fall, they will become part of a school community committed to unlocking their future potential. Through the teaching of traditional academic subjects along with access to special extracurricular programs, students will be given the resources they need to become successful adults in a world that is constantly changing.

"As they grow, these young people will experience careers that as yet are unknown. They will have unique opportunities to make a difference in the world. They will encounter many chances to encourage spiritual growth and promote personal integrity," says Viana. "At Pope John Paul II, we are teaching the children of today to inspire the communities of tomorrow."

A fundamental parochial education from pre-K through the eighth grade has never been more important than it is today. Together with concerned and involved parents, PJPII is committed to growing knowledgeable, spiritual and respectful young adults who appreciate and respond to the needs of their local and global communities.

To ensure success, today's students require a broad spectrum of academic experiences, ranging from language and history to mathematics, science and computer technology.

Pope John Paul II provides that and more.

In fact, the core curriculum parallels the North Carolina course of study and is augmented by the Diocese of Raleigh. PJPII offers an unrivaled, value-based study with proven results.

The school is fully accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

All classroom teachers are licensed by the state of North Carolina.

All students receive instruction in foreign language, religious studies, physical education, art and music.

The largest class size is 24.

The teaching philosophy establishes a strong value-based foundation to resolve issues and challenges with the incorporation of the principles reflected in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Every classroom is equipped with a SMART Board, and teachers implement the use of laptop computers in their classrooms for various lessons and assignments.

In addition to strong academic programs, special extracurricular activities enhance learning and inspire creativity. They include the LEGO robotics team, Science Olympiad team, Drama Program and Middle School Service Teams. PJPII students have earned awards for the North Carolina Young Authors Competition and the Weymouth Writing Contest.

Providing opportunities for leadership extends learning beyond the academic arena. The school held student council elections at the end of the last school year. The new officers are looking forward to fulfilling their duties in the upcoming school year.

For those with a flair for the dramatic, each year PJPII hosts a school play, open to all interested students. In 2011, the students performed "Beauty and the Beast." In 2012, drama participants entertained audiences with their rendition of "School House Rock," a well-known story based on the Saturday morning cartoons from the 1970s.

PJPII also values athletics. Currently, students may participate in cross country, soccer and golf. The Lady Eagles soccer team went undefeated in the regular schedule of their inaugural season this spring. Efforts are under way to offer baseball and tennis in the near future.

"As you make your back-to-school plans, we invite you to take a few moments to learn more about our school," says Viana. "Stop by for a visit. Talk with our teachers. Visit with other families who have chosen PJPII. Find out what makes PJPII special. You'll be glad you did."

For more information about Pope John Paul II Catholic School, visit www.jp2 catholicschool.org or call (910) 692-6241.