FLINT TOWNSHIP, Michigan — In a school not so far, far away students had a special visitor Wednesday — Darth Vader.

St. Pius X Catholic School, 3139 Hogarth Avenue, hosted a Star Wars Day today, which gave students and faculty a chance to dress up as their favorite character or wear clothing representing another nationality while teaching students about accepting differences, said Principal R.J. Kaplan, who dressed up as Darth Vader.

“We try to blend faith and fun with the kids,” Kaplan said. “It’s a way to teach the kids about cultural differences.”

Kaplan, who is a “huge Star Wars fan,” said Star Wars is a good example because characters from all walks of life join the side of good to defeat evil.

First grader Marielle Hatfield, 7, dressed up like Princess Leia, along with her mother, childhood development director Carrie Hatfield.

Star Wars Day at St. Pius X Elementary 8 Gallery: Star Wars Day at St. Pius X Elementary

“It’s to show everyone it’s OK to treat everyone that’s different, the same,” Marielle said.

Kelsey Reddy, 13, an eight grader at St. Pius, dressed up with clothing representing Ireland.

“It’s just funny seeing everyone and teachers dressed up and seeing (Kaplan) in a Darth Vader costume,” she said.

Students also were allowed to bring lightsaber toys this year — kindergartner Emily Wojciecahoski’s favorite part of the day.

“The boys have them but not me,” she said. “I still like Star Wars.”

The date, May 4, holds significance for Star Wars fans. It’s a play on words stemming from, ‘May the force be with you.’ Tuesday was ‘May the fourth be with you,” Kaplan said.

This is the second year the school has celebrated Star Wars Day. Kaplan also read to the kids and asked them questions about diversity.

Star Wars day allowed the kids to have fun and dress up while reinforcing what they’re taught each day, Kaplan said.

“It’s not a program we put the kids through,” he said of teaching them about accepting differences. “It’s our faith.”