St. Patrick's Episcopal Day School
Private School in Thousand Oaks, CA - Conejo Valley kindergarten readiness through 6th Grade
THE ST. PATRICK'S COMMUNITY
We believe in community at St. Patrick’s. That means that the quality of relationships matters, and that everyone is invited to participate and be a part of all that we do. The St. Patrick’s community is the students, faculty, and staff working together with our families toward a shared understanding of what it means to educate the whole child. Our community strives to uphold strong values. We believe in kindness, respect, honesty, inclusiveness, cooperation, thoughtfulness, humor and joy.
Big/Little Buddies and School Family Groups
Each student is a member of a “School Family Group.” These are small groups of students from all grade levels that are headed by a sixth grade leader and a member of the faculty. The Family Groups meet monthly, providing opportunities for the students to plan and carry out a special activity, have additional time together and to get to know each other better. Family Groups also encompass our Buddy Program — big and little buddies in the same family — and buddy activities are scheduled throughout the month. In addition, Big/Little Buddies attend selected events together, Family Groups occasionally sit together in chapel, and the year culminates in a School-wide Sports Day where Family Groups complete activities and contests together. The Family Group program enhances the cross grade level interaction among all the students on campus and also provides significant leadership opportunities for the sixth graders who head the families.
Back-To-School Picnic
Each fall the Parent Association sponsors a family picnic to start the new school year. This gathering provides an informal setting where adults and children can relax, socialize, and have lots of fun!
Sports Day
Another event that brings parents, faculty, and students together is our annual Sports Day. Family Groups take on team names and team colors and participate in a half-day of games and physical activities. The purpose of the day is to promote teamwork, school spirit, and the sharing of good times. Parent volunteers help set up the activities, coordinate the games, host a barbecue lunch, and encourage effort and good sportsmanship.
All Creatures Great and Small
In October, the church and school host a Blessing of the Animals. Parents, students, and their pets gather on the patio where a great cacophony of barks, meows, squawks, and squeaks competes with the opening prayer. The rector and chaplain bless all the dogs, cats, tortoises, snakes, iguanas, guinea pigs, bunnies, parrots, fish as well as any stuffed animals and pet photos in attendance.
Grandparents and Grandest Friends Day
Each November around Thanksgiving time, St. Patrick’s invites grandparents and grandest friends to spend a half-day at school with the students. The day begins with a special chapel for the guests, followed by classroom visits and lessons, and culminates in grade level performances. Everyone enjoys spending time together before going off to the Thanksgiving break.
