Soaring After School: Enriching Minds Beyond the Classroom at SJCS

At St. Joseph Catholic School, our commitment to forming the whole student—mind, body, and spirit—extends beyond the regular school hours. Starting this year, we introduced "Soaring After School," a dynamic after-school club program designed for students in grades 3-5. This initiative aligns seamlessly with our mission to foster a culture of belonging and provide holistic education in a Catholic environment.

What is Soaring After School?

Soaring After School is an enriching after-school program featuring eight diverse clubs, each meticulously crafted to encourage continuous learning and exploration in a fun and engaging manner. Our fantastic team of teachers, passionate about nurturing young minds, will lead these clubs. Here's a glimpse into the exciting options available:

1. Stitchers and Makers - Unleash creativity through the art of stitching and crafting.

2. Choir - Harmonize and express through the power of song.

3. Book Club - Dive into the world of literature and storytelling.

4. Podcast Club - Explore the art of digital storytelling and audio production.

5. Fitness/Runners Club - Promote physical wellness and the joy of movement.

6. Farm/Agriculture Club - Learn about the environment and sustainable practices.

7. Spanish/Zumba Club - Immerse in language and culture through dance and conversation.

8. Creative Problem Solving Club - Develop critical thinking and innovative solutions.

Students in Mrs. Castillo's and Mrs. Keller's Creative Problem Solving Club.

Program Details

• Schedule: The clubs meet once a month during "club week," a dedicated period where each day offers a different set of clubs. This structure allows students to attend up to three clubs per semester, providing them with the flexibility to explore a variety of interests and passions. This approach to club scheduling is a reflection of our commitment to differentiation and catering to individual student interests. It also encourages them to take ownership of their learning journey, a critical skill in both academic and personal development.  
• Timing: During this enriching hour, students delve into hands-on activities that are central to their chosen club. These activities are not just about learning new concepts; they're about physically engaging with the material. This physical engagement is crucial in developing the 'body' aspect of our educational philosophy. It allows students to experience the joy of creation and the satisfaction of tangible accomplishments. They often leave their club meetings with a creation they've made—a symbol of their hard work and creativity.
• Virtues in Practice: In each of our club activities, students are not only encouraged to uphold high standards of conduct but are also given the opportunity to hone their skills in virtue. As they work together in these diverse communities, they learn the importance of collaboration and effective communication. This experience is invaluable in nurturing responsible behavior and fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among peers. Through this, we aim to enrich their educational journey with lessons that extend beyond academics, emphasizing character development and ethical living.

Students in Mrs. Barrera's Spanish/Zumba club making piñatas.

Fostering a Culture of Belonging

Soaring After School is not just an after-school program; it's a step towards strengthening our community. By participating in these clubs, students have the opportunity to develop new skills, nurture existing interests, and form meaningful connections with peers who share similar passions.

This initiative supports our vision of developing disciples for the 21st century - individuals who are balanced, empathetic, knowledgeable, and brave.

Soaring After School is a beautiful extension of our dedication to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child can thrive. One of my favorite sayings when I visit the kids in their classrooms is for them to show me their “brain sparkles.” Our Soaring After School program is creating these brain sparkles in connection with our students' talents and passions and it is such a beautiful thing to witness them soaring together!