Notre Dame's entire Class of 2021 recently participated in a special bonding experience through freshman breakaway day, a day-long retreat at Santa Teresa Parish in San Jose. This all class retreat connects to grade level content by focusing on the theme of Song & Story, Word & Wisdom. Using music and song, students are invited to see their own “song” as part of a sacred story offering wisdom to a struggling world. 

All freshmen also participated in Environment Matters at the Guadalupe River Park. During their day-long experience, students explored themes of environmental stewardship and personal responsibility. They spent time weeding the orchard, removing invasive and non-native species. They also collected and identified creek-dwelling species and participated in a nature walk through a nearby field. Critical thinking, debate and listening skills were also employed as they discussed the various ways remaining open land could be utilized.