FUNRUN 2025
Dear St. Isidore School Families,
As we enter the final weeks of the school year, I am filled with deep gratitude and joy for all the blessings we have experienced as a school community.
This year, our theme “Do Small Things with Great Love” has been a shining example of God’s grace at work in our hallways, classrooms, and hearts. From the joyful energy of our students to th dedication and passion of our incredible teachers and staff, it has be year full of faith, learning, and growth all beautifully reflected in this Spring publication.
I want to take a moment to thank you our families for your continued partnership, prayers, and support. Your involvement and commitment make all the difference and help create the nurturing, faith-filled environment that makes St. Isidore School so special.
As we move into these final weeks of the school year, may we continue to celebrate all we have accomplished together and look ahead with hope and confidence to the future God is preparing for us
In prayer and partnership,
Carol Bender
CarolBender Principal
At St. Isidore School we are called to holiness and excellence in a Catholic environment and community rooted in faith, hope, and love.
BULLDOGS INFULL BLOOM
BlessedbyTheirMinistry:CelebratingOurPriests
WearebeyondblessedatSt IsidoreSchooltohavepriestswhoareengagedwiththelifeoftheschool Throughouttheyear,ourPastor,FatherMatthew,alongwithFatherMarkandFatherWayne,havebeena constantandupliftingpresence celebratingweeklyMasses,offeringtheSacramentofReconciliation, visitingclassrooms,teaching,andparticipatinginschoolevents.
OurPastor,FatherMatthew,hasayouthfulspiritandjoyfuldedicationthatbringsaspecialenergytoour campus.Heteaches8thgradereligionclasseachweekandtakespartinSISteammeetings.Hispresenceis notonlyinspiringbutalsoincrediblyrelatableanddown-to-earth,helpingourstudents,faculty,andstaff connectwiththeirfaithinmeaningfulandlastingways
FatherMarkalsoplaysaspecialroleinourstudents'spiritualformation Eachmonth,heteachesvarious religionclasses,enrichingstudentunderstandingofourfaiththroughengaginglessonsthatofteninclude incrediblevisualsandsacredobjects.HiscreativeapproachmakesCatholicteachingscomealivein memorableandimpactfulways.
FatherWayne’skindspiritalwaysshinesinhishomilies,whichinvitestudentsdeeperintotheirfaithin thoughtfulways WearesogratefulforthewaysFatherMatthew,FatherMark,andFatherWaynewalkwith usinfaith!
What's one hobby or activity you enjoy in your free time?
Training Jiu Jitsu
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? Japan
Do you have a favorite sport or team you root for?
Baseball, go Giants!
Who is your favorite saint, and why?
St John Paul II because he invited us to “not be afraid” and to “open our hearts to Christ”
What is your favorite Bible verse?
“A thief comes only to steal and slaughter and destroy; I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly”
(John 10:10)
NurturingHeartsandMinds:FirstYearReflections oftheEducationinVirtueProgram
Wereflectonayearofgrowth t l i d i butinthespiritualandmor developmentofourstuden AtSt.IsidoreSchool,we strivetoformstudents whoexcelinknowledge whilealsogrowinginfaith andvirtue Thisyear markedasignificant milestoneaswecompleted ourfirst yearpilotofthe
Aswelookbackonourpilotyear,severalkeyefforts andsuccessesstandout:
VirtueoftheMonthReflection–Eachmonth, studentsexploredaspecificvirtuethrough Scripture,thelivesofthesaints,andreal-life applications Studentsembracedtheselessons, applyingthemintheirinteractionswithpeers andteachers.
DailyIntegrationintoSchoolLife–From morningprayerstoclassroomdiscussions, classroomplanners,anddiscipline,thelanguage ofvirtuebecameanintegralpartofourdaily routine,helpingstudentsunderstandand practicemoralexcellenceintheiractions.
DiscipleoftheMonthRecognition–Each monthstudentswererecognizedatMassfor emulatingthevirtueofthemonth
FaithDevelopment -Thefacultyandstaff participatedinthreedevelopmentsessions,two withoneofthefounders,SisterJohnDominic,to furthertheirknowledgeofthevirtuesandlearn waystointegratevirtueeducationseamlessly intotheirinstructionalpracticesandintothe schoolculture.
LookingtotheFuture
Aswemovebeyondourpilotyear,we’reexcitedto buildonthestrongfoundationwe'velaid.Withyour supportandthededicationofourfaculty,we’ll continueformingstudentsintofaith-filled, compassionateleaders
Thankyouforyourprayersandpartnershipinour missiontogrowinvirtueandholinesstogether!
MissionDriven-KidsHelpingKids
FACE(FamilyAidCatholicEducation)providesneed-basedtuitiongrantstostudentsattendingCatholic schoolsintheDioceseofOakland.Atthisyear’sannualgala,St.IsidoreSchoolwasgratefully acknowledgedforembodyingthespiritof“kidshelpingkids.” Throughaschoolwideeffort,ourschoolraised$6,000to supportthisimportantmission.Thesefundsdirectlyhelp providetuitionassistancetofamiliesacrosstheDiocese. WeareproudtostandwithFACEinsupporting CatholiceducationintheDioceseofOakland.
Service-Centered
AtSt.IsidoreSchool,ourFaithFamiliesbring togetherstudentsfromkindergarten througheighthgradetogrowinfaith, fellowship,andservice.Eighthgraderstake onspecialleadershiproles,guidingtheir youngerpeersthroughactivitiesthat strengthenbothspirituallifeandschool community
Thisyear,FaithFamiliescompletedavarietyof meaningfulprojectsthatreflectedourmission ofserviceandkindness Studentsmade handmadewreathstodelivertolocalassisted careandmemorycarefacilities,made RandomActsofKindnesscardsdistributedto communitymembers,andcreatedbookmarks thatweregiftedtoparentsduringCatholic SchoolsWeek.DuringLent,theycreated prayerchainsforeachclassroomasa visiblereminderofoursharedfaith journey.FaithFamiliesareanhonored traditionatSt.IsidoreSchool, connectingouryoungerandolder studentstogetherincommunity
EnglishLanguageArtsReviewUpdate
Lastyear,weembarkedonacomprehensivereviewofourEnglishLangu Artsprogram,withastrongfocusonliteracy Thisinitiativereflectsour commitmenttoacademicexcellenceandourmissiontoequipstudents withtheliteracyskillsnecessaryforacademicsuccess,effective communication,andmeaningfulengagementwiththeworldaround them Ourdedicatedteachershaveplayedavitalroleinthisprocess, devotingtime,energy,andthoughtfulcollaborationtoensurestudent growth
InnovativeLiteracySupport
OneofthemostexcitingdevelopmentshasbeentheestablishmentoftheLearningLab,designedto enhancesmall-groupinstruction Studentsbreakintosmallgroupsamongfourtofiveteachersduring readingclassesingradesonethroughfour Thisapproachhasallowedformoreindividualizedinstruction, enablingteacherstobetteraddressstudents’specificliter
With ll rgroupsizes,tea icawareness,flu pment, ensuring sareader.Thiss sedstudenteng desopportunitie ctions.Wearee ndlookforward ntinueelevating ementintheyea
EnhancingLiteracywithiReadyReading
Additionally,wehaveimplementedi-Readyforstudentsingradesthree througheight adiagnostictoolandpersonalizedlearningplatform i-Ready adaptstoeachstudent’suniqueneeds,offeringcustomizedlessonsthatbuild ontheirstrengthsandtargetareasforgrowth Theprogramtracksstudent progressovertime,givingteachersvaluableinsightstotailorinstruction moreeffectively
Byintegratingi-ReadyReadingintoourcurriculum,weareenhancingliteracy instruction,empoweringteachers,andequippingstudentswiththeskillsthey needtosucceed.Welookforwardtoexpandingthisresourcetoour kindergartenthroughsecondgradeclassroomsnextyear.
Thisyear,wemadeastrongcommitmenttodeepening teacherexpertiseinevidence-basedliteracyinstruction. WepartneredwiththeReadingLeaguetoprovide professionaldevelopmentforteachers ingradesTK-5. Throughthiscollaboration,teachersparticipatedinsix professionallearningsessions,gainingvaluableskillsand strategiesrootedintheScienceofReading.
Theimpacthasbeensignificant teachersfeelmore confidentandequippedtodeliverevidence-basedliteracy instruction Buildingonthissuccess,weareexcitedto extendourpartnershipwithTheReadingLeagueintothe 2025-2026schoolyear,expandingprofessional developmentopportunitiestoincludegradessixthrough eight
Throughtheongoinginvestment inteachertraining,embracingevidencedbasedinstructionalstrategies, andenhancingliteracysupport,wecontinuetoelevatestudentachievementandbuildastrongerreading
GrowingWithPurpose:Accreditation andStrategicPlanning
Nextschoolyear,St.IsidoreSchoolwillbeginthe WCEA(WesternCatholicEducationalAssociation) accreditationprocess aprocessfordetermining thequalityofaschool’soverallCatholicIdentityand educationalprogram.Thisisavaluableopportunity toreflectonourmission,celebrateourstrengths, andsetmeaningfulgoalsforcontinuedgrowth
The2025–2026schoolyearwillserveasourofficial “self-study”year Duringthistime,wewillgather insightsandfeedbackfromfaculty,staff,parents, andstudents Thiscollaborativeprocesswill culminateinaformalaccreditationvisitduringthe 2026–2027schoolyear
Additionally,thisinformationwillbeusedtocreatea StrategicPlantoguideourfutureinmission, academics,facilities,andstudentlife.Together,we willprayerfullyassessourstrengthsandsetgoals thatreflectourcorevaluesoffaith,excellence, integrity,andservice.
Weareexcitedtoembarkonthismeaningful journeyandlookforwardtothewaysitwill strengthenandguidethefutureofSt IsidoreSchool
Atourschool,webelieveinfosteringcreativity,innovation,andcriticalthinkingthrougha well-roundededucationthatextendsbeyondthecorecurriculum.Thisyear,wecontinueto elevatetheart,music,technologyacademicenrichmentopportunities,andSTEMprograms thatinspirestudentstoexploretheirtalentsandbuildconfidence.
FromCuriositytoCreation:TinkerClassDebutedThisYear
Springisaseasonofnewgrowth,freshideas,andjoyfuldiscovery and there’snobetterplacetoseethatspiritinactionthaninourTinkerClass! Ourfirstandsecondgradersareblossomingintocuriouscreators throughhands-onlearningthatencouragesproblem-solving,resilience, creativity,confidence,andcollaboration.TinkerClassgivesstudentsthe opportunitytoexploreSTEMconceptsinaplayfulandmeaningfulway. Frombuildingcatapults,designingfloatableboats,buildingcardboard towns,andparticipatinginaneggdropchallenge.Everyprojectisa chancetoaskquestions,makemistakes,andtryagain importantlife skillsthatalignbeautifullywithourCatholicvaluesofperseverance, stewardship,andwonderatGod’screation.
Thisspiritofexplorationcontinuesingrades3–5throughourMakerspace program,wherestudentsengageindeeperchallengesthatbuildon thesefoundationalskills fosteringinnovation,teamwork,and confidenceastheycreateanddiscoverinnewways.
Thisyear’sSTEAMFamilyNightwasaresoundingsuccess,bringingtogether over350studentsandparentsforaneveningofhands-onlearning,creativity, anddiscovery.Thisyear’sthemewasspaceandshowcasedtheexcitingworld ofScience,Technology,Engineering,Arts,andMathematics(STEAM)through anartshow,engagingactivities,andcollaborativechallenges.Someofthe mostpopularstationsincluded:Balloonrockets,parachutedesign,moon roverscene,solarsystemscrolls,constellationchalk,andspacechains.The enthusiasmandparticipationfromourschoolcommunitymadethisevent trulyspecial.STEAMFamilyNightnotonlyfosteredaloveforexplorationand learningbutalsostrengthenedourcommitmenttoprovidingenriching, hands-oneducationalexperiences.
ANightAmongtheStars:FamilySTEAMNightTakesOff
Our8thgradestudentsbroughtenergyand innovationtotheclassroomduringthemuchanticipatedSharkTank:RestaurantChallenge, transformingintoyoungentrepreneursasthey pitchedoriginalrestaurantconceptstoapanelof “Shark”investorsmadeupofteachers, administrators,andspecialguests Afterweeksof collaboration,creativity,andcriticalthinking,each teampresenteddetailedbusinessplansfeaturing uniquethemes,samplemenus,andfinancial strategies Fromfuturisticrobotcaféstocozy farm-to-tablebrunchspots,theideaswereas imaginativeastheywereimpressive 8thGradersDiveIntotheBusiness World:SharkTank
Our school choir recently participated in the Pueri Cantores Festival, joining Catholic school choirs from across Northern California to sing at a special Mass with Bishop Cordileone at the Cathedral of the Assumption in San Francisco. They gained invaluable experience chanting the Mass, singing in a cathedral, and collaborating with other choirs. Next, the choir heads to Southern California to take part in Disney Performing Arts. Students will perform a 30minute concert at Disney California Adventure and join a soundtrack recording workshop led by professionals in the music industry a unique and enriching opportunity to grow as musicians and performers
SpringintoArt:TheCreativeWorkofOurStudents
WeareblessedtoofferartinstructionforallTK–8students,wherecreativityandlearninggrowsidebyside. Intheartroom,studentsexplorenotjusthowtomakeart,butwhyitmatters buildingskills,confidence, andappreciationforbeauty.Thisspring,1stand2ndgraderscreatedStarryNightlandscapesinspired byVincentvanGogh,learningabouthislife,expressivetechniques,and thepowerofabstractart.Thirdgradestudentsstudiedtheworkof RobertIndiana,famousforhisiconic“Love”imageandmadetheirown wordartpiece.Thesehands-onprojectshelpstudentsexpressthemselves, learnaboutdifferentartists,artstyles,andmediums,allowingthemto becomewell-roundedartistswhilerecognizingthecreativegiftsGod hasgiventhem
AcademicDecathlon
This year students in 6th through 8th grade participated in the second Diocese of Oakland Academic Decathlon.
SpeechContest
CatholicMathLeague
For the first time, students in grades 3 through 8 participated in the Catholic Math League national competition, consisting of four tests throughout the school year We are proud to share that several of our classes performed exceptionally well our 3rd through 6th grade classes placed in the top ten in California!
Each spring, students in grades five through eight participate in our annual Speech Contest. Fifth graders craft engaging narrative speeches, sixth graders explore informative topics, seventh graders present thoughtful arguments, and eighth graders choose their own style This event not only strengthens writing and public speaking skills but also fosters confidence, critical thinking, and leadership values rooted in our Catholic mission
ScienceFair
StudentsingradessevenandeightparticipateyearlyintheScienceFair ThisFairismorethanjusta showcaseofacademicachievement itreflectsourCatholiceducationalmissiontonurturethewholechild ItencouragesstudentstoexplorethewondersofGod’screation,askmeaningfulquestions,andusetheir giftsofintellectandcuriositytobetterunderstandtheworldaroundthem.Thewinnerswentontocompete intheDioceseofOakland.
GrandparentsDay
“ I don’t get to see my grandparents very often because they live really far away. It was really nice to spend a whole day with all of my grandparents and we made so many memories. They still drink out of the mugs we gave to them and we made copies of the art we made together and shared them with our whole family”
5thGradeRetreat
“ I learned a lot about leadership, team building, and perseverance My favorite part was the field activities because you got to be a leader but also be lead by your classmates. You learn a lot about yourself as an individual.”
“We got to honor the people that have served our country. Students who have family in the service gave them flowers, decorated their cars, and honored them in front of the whole school.”
GrandparentsDay
“I love rallies because the whole school gets together in the gym and there is so much energy!”
BacktoSchoolHoedown
“I liked that there were a bunch of fun activities like animal petting, and you got to meet new people and classmates who are starting school There were fun games, food, and dancing And,ofcourse,thesnowconesweredelicious!”
“There are a lot of fun activities where you can can learn and have fun at the same time!”
MayCrowning
“We get to see our classmates every day in the classrooms but it’s nice to spend quality time together outside of the classroom before the school year ends We get to have fun and be ourselves We also get to spend quality time with our teachers!”
SOWINGSEEDS OFGRATITUDE
THANKYOU ST.ISIDORE TEAM!
Thank you to our incredible Catholic school faculty and staff. You do more than teach you inspire, guide, and help shape students into thoughtful, faithful individuals. Your commitment to nurturing both hearts and minds is a true gift to our school and parish community. May God continue to bless your vocation and the impact you make each day.
What I love the most about the teachers at St Isidore School is how helpful and supportive they are If there’s ever an assignment that we don’t understand, they offer to help outside of regular class time
My teachers, throughout my journey at St Isidore School, have taught me to be kind, faithful, and determined.
What I’ll miss most is the everyday kindness they show. Thank you to all my teachers for your hard work, dedication, and the impact you’ve made on my life.
Elijah G. 8 Grade th
The teachers at St Isidore School have always been supportive and really care about helping us do our best They’ve pushed us to work hard, reach our goals, and believe in ourselves No matter what, they’re always there to help and encourage us
Now that graduation is getting closer, I know I’ll miss their kindness the most. Thank you, teachers, for always being there and for guiding us with so much love and support. We’re truly grateful more than words can say.
Ashlyn G. Student Body President
At St. Isidore School, students experience firsthand the blessings of our generous community, where the spirit of philanthropy and servant leadership modeled by our families, faculty, staff, and supporters—reflect the core values of faith, excellence, integrity, and service.
ParentAssociation AdvisoryBoard
We proudly recognize and thank the members of the St. Isidore School Advisory Board for their dedicated service, thoughtful guidance, and commitment to our mission.
The Advisory Board plays a vital role in supporting the long-term strength and success of our school by offering insight on strategic planning, development, and schoolwide initiatives Their work rooted in faith, stewardship, and a deep love for Catholic education has a lasting impact on our students, families, and faculty We are truly grateful for their partnership and leadership!
President: Mr. Gagnon
Advancement: Mrs Gustafson
Facilities: Mr Czarnik
Finance: Mrs Korajkic
Marketing: Mrs Mihalik
Safety & Security: Mr Lickiss
Thank you to the 2024–2025 St. Isidore School Parent Association (PA) for working together to support and enrich the St. Isidore School community. The St. Isidore Parent Association (PA) is dedicated, through its volunteer efforts, to developing and sponsoring fundraisers and activities for the St Isidore Community The Parent Association seeks to:
Promote volunteerism within the parent community
Enhance communication and communitybuilding the school and parents through activities and social opportunities
Raise funds to support St. Isidore School's strategic objectives
Co-Presidents: Mrs Gillman & Mrs Grydyk
Co-Vice Presidents: Mrs Keane & Mrs Burton
Communications: Mrs Peterson
Treasurer: Mr Alamo
We are thankful for our partnership with the St. Isidore Foundation, Mr. Pera, Mrs. Holquin, and Mr. and Mrs. Thomas, who support St. Isidore School families facing job loss or illness. This year, the Foundation presented a check for $80,000 the largest to date which will directly assist families within our school community. Their ongoing commitment clearly supports and advances the mission of Catholic education, and we are truly blessed by their generosity
HonoringFaithfulService
The Spirit of St Isidore Award honors an individual(s) who dedicates time and talent to support our Mission. Families nominate and acknowledge the efforts of one of their fellow parents by submitting their vote.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Mrs. Gillman and Mrs. Grydyk for their outstanding leadership and faithful service during their three-year tenure as Co-Presidents of the Parent Association.
Mrs.GillmanandMrs.Grydykhavegenerouslygiventheirtime,energy,andheartstoourschool community.Theyhavebroughtjoytoourcampusthroughcountlesshoursofplanningandorganizing, fosteredastrongsenseofcommunity,andstrengthenedthevitalpartnershipbetweenfamiliesandour school.Theircreativity,dedication,andservantleadershiphaveleftameaningfulandlastingimpactonSt. IsidoreSchool
Wearetrulyblessedbytheircommitmentandexample andwethankthemforhelpingtomakeour schoolnotjustaplaceoflearning,butahomerootedinfaithandconnection Congratulationsonbeingthe 2025recipientsoftheSpiritofSt IsidoreAward!
Announcingthe2025-2026ParentAssociationPresident
Mr Alamo will be serving as our new Parent Association President!
Mr Alamo is a mission-driven leader who has already made a meaningful impact in our community As an active parishioner, he has generously given his time and energy to countless school and parish events. Known for being organized, always willing to help, and a supportive team player, Angel brings a heart for service and a passion for building community.
Please join us in welcoming Mr Alamo to this role we look forward to his continued leadership, dedication, and joyful presence!
We are so thankful to the many parents and community members who support our school by worshiping together at Mass, participating in activities, celebrating milestones, and supporting key events.
NewcomersCommittee
Mrs. Krause and Mrs. McLean, along with the grade-level ambassadors with their warm spirit welcome and support new families at St. Isidore School. Their dedication ensures that new families feel informed,valued, and connected as they begin their journey at St. Isidore School. Thank you for making our school community feel like home!
HospitalityCommittee
On behalf of all parents, our Hospitality Committee, led by Mrs. Hitchcock, arranges special treats and lunches for our faculty and staff throughout the year. The love and creativity put into each occasion have been spectacular, and the SIS Team is truly grateful for the love and appreciation
Dad’sClub
Cheers to the St. Isidore Dad’s Club for another incredible year of fellowship, fun, and fundraising! Through their time, energy, and enthusiasm, they’ve hosted a variety of events that bring our community together and support our school in meaningful ways.
RoomParents
Our Room Parents play a role fostering communication between parents, building community and supporting our teachers and staff. Room Parents assist with organizing class parties, parent meet ups, and contribute to the success of events like Teacher Appreciation Week Their engagement truly help to make each year fun and memorable for students and families
SunshineCommittee
Thank you to our Sunshine Committee, led by Mrs Inman-Semerau, for bringing support and a little “sunshine” to those who need it in our community through thoughtful acts of kindness, love and care
ASEASON OFGIVING
TK HAD THE HIGHEST PARTICIPATION
TOTAL # OF DONORS
As a Catholic school, we take great pride in keeping tuition affordable and accessible to our families. In order to do this, the tuition is intentionally set to be less than the cost of educating a student. The goal of the Annual Fund is to help make up this difference.
The Annual Fund and other fundraising efforts support the school’s operating budget Your participation in the Annual Fund directly enriches every aspect of our student’s education - from supporting our dedicated teachers to keeping our classrooms, technology, and facilities up to date Your generosity is essential to our continued success, and we deeply appreciate your support of St. Isidore School.
KarenGustafson Advancement
YOUR GENEROSITY HELPS US TO GROW
100 % Participation is our Goal!
GIFTS OF $7,500+
Waived PEP hour requirement (20 hours)
Invitation to the Giving Circle Social Reception
Two assigned floor seats (with early entry) in the 3rd row for the Christmas and Spring Concerts
Recognition in the Auction Program and on the School Website
GIFTS OF $5,000 - $7,499
Waived PEP hour requirement (20 hours)
Invitation to the Giving Circle Social Reception
Early entry for two adults at the Christmas and Spring Concerts (open seating)
Recognition in the Auction Program and on the School Website
GIFTS OF $3,000 - $4,999
Credit for 10 PEP hours
Invitation to the Giving Circle Social Reception
GIFTS UP TO $1,100 - $2,999
Recognition in the Auction Program and on the School Website RecognitionintheAuctionProgramandontheSchoolWebsite
Every spring, St Isidore School eagerly anticipates its annual Fun Run fundraising event! This year, we kicked off the fundraiser with an energetic spirit rally, inspiring school families to unite and gather pledges for their children The St Isidore community collectively raised a total of $86,036 On the day of the run, families came together to cheer on the students as they ran laps around the field. We are grateful to all who generously donated and helped make this year’s Fun Run a success!
