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Growing in Faith, Leading with Purpose

Growing in Faith, Leading with Purpose

At Saint Monica Preparatory, faith is not simply taught in the classroom — it is lived each day through prayer, service, leadership and the celebration of the sacraments that guide students throughout their spiritual journey.

Last Saturday marked a joyful milestone for SMPREP’s second graders as they celebrated their First Communion at St. Monica Catholic Church, receiving the Body and Blood of Christ for the first time surrounded by family, teachers and the school community. In recent weeks, many of our Upper School students also received the Sacrament of Confirmation, affirming their faith and embracing a deeper call to lead and serve with courage, compassion and purpose.

The celebration of faith has continued across our campus throughout the year. SMPREP students Mylia, Mae, Finley and Anjola received their Sacraments of Initiation at St. Monica Catholic Church, following fellow students Andrea, Adrian and Charles, who completed their sacramental journey during the Easter season. During recent school Masses, Lower School students Nikolett, Zakiyah and Maverick were also celebrated through Baptism, with Maverick additionally receiving his First Communion. 

SMPREP students are also growing as faith-filled leaders. Sophomore Mariners recently participated in a retreat experience led by the Campus Ministry team at The Salvation Army, where they spent time in prayer, reflection, community-building and conversation alongside Fr. Eusebio. Through meaningful discussions, shared experiences and time in nature, students returned to campus with renewed gratitude and stronger connections to one another.

SMPREP’s student leaders are extending their impact beyond campus. Members of the Campus Ministry team recently traveled to St. Brendan School to lead retreat activities for middle school students, serving as mentors and role models for younger peers. Their willingness to lead with joy, kindness and authenticity continues to reflect the vibrant faith life at Saint Monica.

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Leading by Example: Dino Hidalgo Earns Scholarship Through New SMPREP-Portland Partnership

For Saint Monica Preparatory senior Dino Hidalgo, the road to graduation has been marked by resilience, determination and a commitment to helping others succeed alongside him.

This fall, Dino will attend the University of Portland to study Electrical Engineering, as the first student to participate in the University's new pathway partnership with SMPREP, earning guaranteed admission and a four-year scholarship in recognition of his academic achievements and the rigor of his Catholic education. Behind this achievement is a story of perseverance. Having faced significant personal loss and adversity during his high school years, Dino remained focused on his education while embracing opportunities to serve his school community. Rather than allowing challenges to define him, he chose to invest in others, becoming a dedicated student leader in SMPREP's growing peer tutoring program.

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Sophomore Anna Moore Finds Her Passion on the Water

Nine months ago, Saint Monica Preparatory sophomore Anna Moore knew virtually nothing about rowing. Today, she's preparing to compete on one of the sport's biggest stages.

On Monday, Anna will travel to Sarasota, Florida, for the USRowing Youth National Championships, where more than 4,000 qualified junior athletes from across the country will compete on a world-class 2,000-meter course. Representing her Marina del Rey-based club team, RowLA, Anna and her doubles partner will be one of just 20 boats competing in the Women's Youth Double event.

"I love being on the water; the peace of an early morning row is something that cannot be described and brings me so much fulfillment," Anna shared. Her story is a reminder that sometimes the best opportunities begin with the willingness to try something new.

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SMPREP Names Bryan Bartley Head Coach of Varsity Boys Basketball

Saint Monica Preparatory is proud to announce the naming of Bryan Bartley as the new Head Coach for Varsity Boys Basketball. With more than 25 years of experience across high school, collegiate and elite grassroots basketball, Coach Bartley brings a wealth of player development expertise and program-building success to the Mariners basketball program.

Coach Bartley has built a distinguished career developing student athletes both on and off the court. Most recently, he served as the Associate Head Boys Basketball Coach at Windward School, while also serving as Campus Coordinator for Core Prep Academy at SMPREP. Coach Bartley will continue in his role with Saint Monica’s Core Prep program. 

“Coach Bartley brings substantial experience, energy and passion to our program,” said Jason Bowers, SMPREP Athletics Director. “Beyond his success on the court, he is a relationship-builder and mentor.”

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