An open house and a school community prayer service are a few events that will highlight this year's observance of national Catholic Schools Week at Our Lady of the Angels Academy in Lansford.

These events are part of the nationwide celebration of Catholic education during the week of Jan. 27 to Feb. 2. This year's theme is "Catholic Schools Raise the Standards".It highlights the emphasis Catholic education puts on academic excellence, faith development, and community service. The theme also highlights the launch of an initiative, "The National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools," to ensure consistent high standards at Catholic schools across the country.Our Lady of the Angels Academy invites prospective students, their families and community residents to visit during an Open House on Sunday, Jan. 27, from noon to 2 p.m.Visitors will have an opportunity to learn about programs for preschoolers to eighth grade.Kindergarten and new student registrations will be taken at this time.Beginning on Monday, Jan. 28, opportunities to register will also be held. Times to register are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Parents are asked to contact the school office if another time is needed so that a convenient time can be arranged.During the week students will visit St. Luke's Skilled Nursing facility, and enjoy a pizza luncheon. As a service project, the students will be sending care packages to our soldiers. The school community will participate in a prayer service highlighting the colors of our faith.Another activity the students will enjoy is creating sundaes with the priests and sisters who have contributed to OLOAA and having "Flat Sister Regina" visit their classroom.Throughout the week student's National History projects will be displayed. The celebration will conclude with a weekly liturgy and a special luncheon for the faculty.