The Veritas Journey Program

Santa Catalina School offers a rigorous academic program designed to expand students’ minds and inspire their curiosity and desire for lifelong learning. Whether discussing the anatomy of a cell or American foreign trade policy, our teachers encourage students to think for themselves, to ask questions, and to find answers. By the time they graduate, our students are equipped and empowered to excel in academic and intellectual discourse that is grounded in inquiry and balanced analysis.

This same level of preparation and intentionality has been the aim of our Journey program. The program was created 15 years ago to be a comprehensive advisory program that imparts Santa Catalina culture to students, teaches leadership skills, and ensures excellent college placement. We know that students today need a social and emotional curriculum that addresses their current needs and supports their social identity formation in an evolving and complex world.

This past spring, the Upper School analyzed the strengths and areas of improvement of the current Journey program to better meet student needs. As a result, we revised the program to build on the strengths of its predecessor while integrating new and innovative elements to enhance the student experience. We are excited to announce that this fall, Upper School students will embark on a new journey: The Veritas Journey Program.

At the heart of the new program is our school motto, Veritas, which means “truth.” Veritas serves as the guiding principle that underpins the program’s transformative elements. The Veritas Journey Program represents a commitment to fostering an authentic and meaningful educational journey, in which students can discover their true potential, explore their passions, and embrace their individuality.

One of the key strengths of the Veritas Journey Program lies in its spiraling themes, which create a cohesive and interconnected learning experience every year. These themes are carefully woven into the fabric of the curriculum, empowering students on their journey to personal growth with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Yearly Themes

Leadership

Leadership serves as the foundation of the Veritas Journey Program. Students engage in activities, workshops, and collaborative projects that foster the development of effective communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. This theme empowers students to embrace leadership roles, inspiring confidence and preparing them for future endeavors.

Culture and Community

Cultural understanding and community engagement are vital aspects of the Veritas Journey Program. Through interactions with diverse communities, students develop empathy, global awareness, and a sense of social responsibility. This theme fosters appreciation for inclusion and belonging and encourages students to contribute positively to their communities.

Personal Safety

Personal safety is paramount in today’s world, and the Veritas Journey Program equips students with the knowledge and skills to navigate a variety of situations. Through workshops and practical exercises, students learn about risk assessment, online safety, self-defense techniques, and setting boundaries. This theme empowers students to prioritize their well-being and make informed choices.

Personal Finance

Understanding personal finance is a critical life skill, and the program emphasizes financial literacy. Students learn about budgeting, saving, investing, responsible spending, and debt management. By equipping students with financial knowledge and skills, the program empowers them to make informed financial decisions and to plan for a secure future.

College Counseling

Preparing for college is a significant milestone, and the Veritas Journey Program offers comprehensive college counseling services. Students receive guidance, support, and resources to navigate the college exploration and application process, including standardized test preparation, essay writing support, and individualized counseling. This theme ensures that students are well prepared for the next chapter of their academic journey.

Grade-level Themes

In addition to these yearly spiraling themes, each year of Upper School the program centers on one of four themes (courage, compassion, responsibility, and grace), also connected to our mission and tailored to each grade level’s unique needs and development.

Freshman Year: Courage—Beginning Your Journey

Freshman year focuses on building courage and resilience as students embark on their high school journey. They are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, explore new opportunities, and face challenges with confidence. This theme sets the tone for personal growth and development throughout students’ four years at Santa Catalina.

Sophomore Year: Compassion—Embracing Your Community

Sophomore year emphasizes the value of relationships and the importance of kindness. By fostering connections, embracing diversity, and actively participating in the wider community, students develop essential life skills, build empathy, and cultivate a strong sense of belonging. These experiences not only enrich their personal growth but also equip them with the tools and mindset necessary to navigate a diverse and interconnected world with compassion, respect, and understanding.

Junior Year: Responsibility—Learning to Lead

Junior year centers on responsibility and leadership development. Students take on increased responsibilities, both within the school and beyond. They develop essential skills such as accountability, teamwork, and effective communication, preparing them to become influential leaders in their senior year and beyond.

Senior Year: Grace—Lighting the Way

In their final year at Santa Catalina, students embody grace as they prepare to transition to college and adulthood. They serve as role models for younger students, sharing their knowledge and experiences. The theme of grace emphasizes self-reflection, integrity, and the ability to positively impact others, lighting the way for future Catalinians.

The Veritas Journey Program continues Santa Catalina’s commitment to educational excellence and the development of the whole person. It unlocks a world of opportunities, preparing students to excel in their chosen paths. Equipped with the skills, knowledge, and personal character to be women of impact, students are ready to responsibly navigate the future with courage, grace, and compassion.