On March 22, half of the freshman class volunteered for Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (CRCL) as part of a Biology I field trip experience. Meanwhile, the other half of the class attended the Freshman Retreat guided by their senior big sisters. The next day, they switched.
In Violet, LA, students worked with CRCL to protect Louisiana's eroding coastline. CRCL established the Oyster Shell Recycling Program to keep shells out of landfills and slow coastal land loss. Since starting the program in 2014, they have recycled more than 12.6 million pounds of shells and protected over 8,000 feet of shoreline along the coast.
Back on campus, the freshmen drew closer to God and their peers. The theme of the Freshman Retreat was "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Activities included letter-writing, small-group discussions, seniors-led talks, prayer, and Mass. The 9th graders also enjoyed participating in ice-breaker games, creating flower arrangements, and playing "Just Dance." The retreat left a lasting impression on the class, allowing them to strengthen their bonds of friendship, reflect on their personal growth, and establish a deeper connection with God.