There are a number of after school activities available to a St. John student. Participation in sports, music, and drama is encouraged as long as the students are able to maintain their schoolwork.
After School Study
For students in grades six through eight, St. John After School Study is more than just study hall. Participants are taught basic study skills including planning for large projects, study techniques, and organization skills. Since After School Study is staffed by certified teachers, students requiring extra attention in specific subjects are able get additional instruction. There is an hourly fee for this program.
Math Club
During the 2009-2010 school year, 5th and 6th grade students will have the opportunity to participate in the Math Olympiads for Elementary and Middle Schools (MOEMS). MOEMS is a nonprofit public foundation which provides opportunities for children to engage in creative problem solving activities which develop a child’s ability to reason, to be logical, to be resourceful, and to be ingenious.
The Olympiad goals for children are:
1. Develop enthusiasm for problem solving and mathematics.
2. Deepen understanding of mathematical concepts.
3. Learn major strategies for problem solving.
4. Enrich experiences in intellectually stimulating activities.
5. Build a stronger foundation for assessments and future mathematics studies.
Students participating in the program will practice regularly under the direction of parent volunteer, Meredith Lambert, in preparation for five monthly Olympiad contests. Mrs. Halley and Señor Pablo are the faculty advisors for the program. Olympiad participants will meet every Wednesday and Friday morning before school.
Speech Team
Students are encouraged to participate in Speech Club each week from September to February to sharpen their critical thinking, writing, and oral presentation skills. Tournament competition occurs within the Seattle Archdiocese, approximately three times each season. Categories vary but usually include storybook, dramatic, humorous, expository, editorial comment, impromptu, and storybook. Students are coached in preparation and delivery of their speech material one afternoon each week.
Altar Service
Students in fifth grade and up are eligible to participate in altar service. Interested students are trained after school in the roles and responsibilities of altar servers. This is a wonderful opportunity for the youth of our community to participate in worship and grow in their understanding and appreciation of the Mass. When they are adequately trained, servers are scheduled to help at Mass on a regular basis through eighth grade.