The 8th grade class of 2026 is already making their college plans. True, they have 4 more years ahead of them. But many of them already know what they want to do next. This would not have been true 25 years ago, but through our mentoring program and with dedicated teachers, the entire 2026 class of 8th graders is already talking about college.

John Treal lives in Birney and has attended St. Labre since kindergarten. His goal is to finish high school and then enter nursing school, where he will earn his palliative nursing degree. What he likes about St. Labre is the "good teachers" and the "good kids." He also likes going to Mass each week. When he's not busy with school, he likes to hang out with his cousins and listen to music, just like most teenagers across the country.

John also came as a kindergartner. His favorite subject is social studies, particularly the American Revolution. When not busy with academics, he enjoys being on the track and field team, where he runs the 200-meter dash and the 400-meter as well. Away from school, he likes to hunt and fish. A quiet boy, he says he enjoys going to Mass each week.

St. Labre is a family affair for John and his siblings. He has two brothers and a sister who also attend the school. His plans after high school involve the study of birds (ornithology). We wish John the best in his future endeavors.