St. Monica Catholic Elementary School celebrated National Catholic Schools Week at the end of January with the theme “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge, and Service.”
Teachers, students, and parents spent time at school and in the Santa Monica community Jan. 25-31with a focus on giving thanks to civic and community workers, Santa Monica residents, and local businesses – all who make a difference in the lives of our students.
“We as a school are incredibly proud of the community we are a part of,” said Principal Dr. Neil Quinly. “We took the opportunity during Catholic Schools Week to inspire our students and create opportunities for them to go out into the community to show our appreciation, and to find fulfillment in their community experience.”
The sixth grade class visited residents at an assisted living community for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
The students spent time reading to the residents, serenaded them and even helped one resident with her physical therapy exercises.
The first grade class walked down to the beach to visit lifeguard Tower 8. The students presented a banner, cards, and treats to say thank you to the lifeguards for their service and for all that they do.
The fifth and third grade class invited a Santa Monica Police Department officer and K-9 dog to the school and learned about a day in the life of a K-9 dog, while the seventh graders and the transitional kindergarten class went to visit a local library to thank the wonderful staff.
The eighth grade and kindergartners went to Barnes and Noble on Third Street Promenade to thank them for encouraging reading throughout the community.
It was also a busy week on campus with hosted events throughout the week.
Parent volunteers and students hosted teachers and staff at a luncheon that was catered by Bay Cities Deli and was a big hit.
The school planned a parents’ breakfast with families spending time in the auditorium before school, showing appreciation and thanks for the great involvement parents have in the school.
The highlight of the week was the Friday student freeze dance party held in the school gym.
The entire elementary school, grades TK-8, competed in a dance competition, with a second grader taking the winning spot.
St. Monica Catholic Elementary School provides a holistic education that includes teaching students the value of service to their community. Catholic Schools Week was an inspirational week for students to become actively involved in their community, and to reflect on ways they can continue to give back to stay involved.
