Seattle, WA – February 21, 2025 – St. Alphonsus Parish School, a vibrant and growing Catholic PK-8 school in Ballard, today announces the opening of its Class Art Showcase in collaboration with the Seattle Public Library, Ballard Branch. Nearly 200 students aged 3 to 14 collectively produced 8 original art pieces themed around the concept of wonder, including a honeycomb watercolor with a matching handknit shawl, a stained-glass piece, and even decorative masks created by many tiny hands. The one-of-a-kind pieces will be auctioned off at the school’s highly anticipated annual fundraiser, A Night at Carnevale on March 1.
The Class Art Showcase will be on public display at the Ballard Public Library from February 18th to February 26th, offering visitors to the Seattle Public Library Ballard Branch visitors a chance to appreciate the unique pieces before they go to auction. Each piece of art represents the collaborative creativity of students, blending education with artistic expression to support the school’s mission.
“At St. Alphonsus, we’ve been part of the fabric of the Ballard neighborhood for more than a century, and we believe that the arts are not just an ‘extra,’ but it’s an essential part of a child’s growth,” said Nick Padrnos, St. Alphonsus School Principal. “Our Class Art Showcase and auction are reflections of that belief, demonstrating how art around the theme of child-like wonder can inspire creativity and collaboration while building a strong community.”
Why Art Matters in Education
Research consistently shows that participation in art enhances a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. According to a report from the Arts Education Partnership, students engaged in high-quality arts education are more likely to excel academically, build critical thinking skills, and develop confidence and creativity. Yet, as many schools scale back arts programs, St. Alphonsus Parish School remains deeply committed to fostering a well-rounded education that includes robust support for the arts.
Event Details
Class Art Showcase
- Where: Ballard Public Library
- When: February 18 – February 26, during library hours
- Cost: Free and open to the public
Annual Auction – A Night at Carnevale
- When: Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 6:00 PM
- Where: St. Alphonsus Parish School Gymnasium, 5816 15th Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107
- Tickets: Angel Advocate Premium tickets are available for $175, and Standard tickets are $130
Proceeds from the auction directly benefit the school’s programs, which are ‘dedicated to the formation of the whole child through academic excellence in a welcoming, faith-filled community based on Catholic traditions and values.’
For more information about the Class Art Showcase, please visit stalseattle.org/school or to purchase tickets for the auction, please visit the St. Alphonsus Auction Website.
About St. Alphonsus Parish School
Founded in 1907, St. Alphonsus Parish School has provided a values-based Catholic education to students in Ballard and the greater Seattle area for over a century. The school’s dedication to academic excellence, community involvement, and spiritual growth has made it a cornerstone of the community.
Media Contact:
Eric Schudiske
eric@s2spr.com
