Two game days came two weeks apart at a pair of Jesuit schools in central Phoenix.
St. Francis Xavier, the only Jesuit elementary school in Arizona, held Jesuit Board Games Jan. 22 as an interactive way to showcase knowledge of the latest middle school religious education unit. Sixth-graders study Jesuit history as part of their curriculum and create board games to help one another review information about the lives and ministries of St. Ignatius of Loyola and St. Francis Xavier.
Parents and other loved ones joined them on campus to share in the fun and play their board games.
“The Jesuit unit is one of my most favorite lessons I do with my sixth graders. It is so fun to see the student apply what they have learned and transform them into informative clever and creative board games,” said Kelsey McKone, religious education teacher.
Across the parking lot at Brophy College Preparatory, the freshmen class hosted a Game Day for athletes involved in Special Olympics. More than 175 Special Olympics athletes partnered with Brophy freshmen in relay races, board games, basketball and football on campus. Students also held a dance party.
“This year the morning began with a sing-a-long and mini cheer camp hosted by Student Council which quickly became a favorite of our Special Olympic athletes,” said Bob Ryan, principal.
Paul Fisko, assistant principal for ministry, agreed that the day, led by Brophy freshmen, was a memorable one.
“The day is a win-win for athletes and Brophy students… so much joy and camaraderie everywhere you look,” Fisko said.
