Fri Apr 24 at 7pm
Sat Apr 25 at 7pm
Sun Apr 26 at 2pm
On April 24-26, the middle school students of St. Alphonsus School will perform the comedy Barbecuing Hamlet. And six local businesses will become part of the show.
Through a Business Sponsorship, your company name will be written directly into a line of the play and spoken during the performance, in front of St. Alphonsus families and community members. It’s a fun and memorable way to support student theater while highlighting your business.
Only six sponsorships are available.
Our lead sponsor receives the most visibility.
[Become the King of the Grill Sponsor]
[Become a Backyard Grill Sponsor]
The fair market value of benefits per tier is listed below. The remainder of your gift is tax-deductible.
| Sponsorship Level | Total Cost | Estimated Value of Ads/Perks | Tax-Deductible Amount |
| King of the Grill | $750 | $125 | $625 |
| Pitmaster | $500 | $100 | $400 |
| Backyard Grill | $250 | $50 | $200 |
Your sponsorship helps support:
St. Alphonsus School is a nonprofit organization, so your sponsorship is tax-deductible.
Only six businesses will appear in the script. Sponsorships are first come, first served.
Register here and learn more: https://stalseattle.org/school/summer-day-care
Looking for a safe, joyful, and engaging summer option for your little one? St. Alphonsus Summer Day Care is now open for registration!
Enrollment is limited to just 20 students, and spots are open to both current and prospective St. Alphonsus families—so please share with friends and neighbors!
Our campus was filled with holiday cheer as students in grades 2–4 took the stage for Co Ho Ho: The Salmon That Saved Christmas. This heartwarming and humorous production was written and produced by our drama director, Mo Mershon, and performed in our blackbox theatre with professional lighting.
From the opening scene, our young actors captivated the audience with their confidence, creativity, and joy. The thoughtfully crafted story, combined with high-quality production elements, made this performance feel both festive and polished—an impressive achievement for students in the early elementary grades.
At St. Alphonsus, we believe the performing arts play a vital role in a child’s education. Beginning in the early grades, students are given opportunities to develop public speaking skills, collaboration, empathy, and creative expression through drama and performance.
For families considering St. Alphonsus, productions like Co Ho Ho reflect our commitment to educating the whole child. Our investment in the arts—alongside strong academics and character formation—ensures that students grow in confidence, creativity, and courage from an early age. We are proud to offer a performing arts program that allows students to shine on stage and beyond.
We’re excited to announce the launch of another full-day preschool classroom at St. Alphonsus! This new offering provides families with flexible 3-day and 5-day schedule options, as well as options for half and full days.
Designed for children ages 2.5 to 4, this classroom is led by a dedicated lead teacher (Miss Person) and an aide (Miss Ellie), ensuring personalized attention and a strong foundation for early learning. Through joyful, hands-on experiences, students will explore a rich curriculum that includes art, music, and PE, helping them develop essential academic, social, and motor skills. Afternoon extended care is available until 6pm daily.
Apply today: stalseattle.org/school/admissions/apply
Teaching preschool is one of my greatest joys and I am so excited to be joining the St. Alphonsus community. I believe that every child is unique and has their own learning style and pace. I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive Christ-filled classroom environment where children can explore, learn, and have fun. My teaching approach is centered around play-based learning. Children learn best when they are engaged and having fun.
I live in the Ballard/Phinney Ridge neighborhood. You may see me and my husband walking our dog Maple or riding bikes with my daughter Coen and stepson Liam. My eldest daughter Carter currently works at Disney World and my son Theo is heading off to college in the fall. I also have a cat and five chickens. Yes, five! We call our backyard our Phinney Farm. Please share with friends, family and neighbors about our new half-day preschool and all the joy, wonder, and fun we will have.
Our Early Learning Program is built on a commitment to nurturing each child’s academic, social, emotional, and spiritual growth at their own pace. We foster curious, confident learners who develop a positive self-image, respect for others, and an appreciation for the wonders of God’s world.
With three distinct preschool classrooms, we ensure that every child is placed in an environment best suited to their developmental needs. St. Alphonsus has been a trusted partner for families in the Ballard neighborhood since 1907, providing a preschool through 8th-grade Catholic education that blends tradition with innovation.
Interested in learning more about our new half-day preschool or our Early Learning Program? Apply today: stalseattle.org/school/admissions/apply
Questions? Contact Melissa Rodriguez-Murphy (Admissions Director) at admissions@stalseattle.org, or call (206) 782-4363.
From the Fulcrum Point podcast episode description of “A Day in the Life at St. Alphonsus Parish School, Seattle”, which originally aired on November 3, 2025.
On this episode of the Fulcrum Point, we’re having some fun with one of the oldest Catholic schools in Seattle–but one that’s coming up with some the newest and most innovative ways to connect with and educate students!
We’re learning all about St. Alphonsus School, a pre-K through 8th school which has been operating since 1907 in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. Speaking with principal Nick Padrnos, we’re learning more about a program to organize middle schoolers that’s literally working like magic, a breakthrough in the battle over when kids should get a mobile phone, a project that helps provide affordable teacher housing, and more!
You’ll also hear from lead pre-K teacher Carissa Person about how support from the Fulcrum Foundation has helped classes for 3, 4, and 5 year-olds grow to unprecedented levels. Plus, math teacher Emma Min, a former college hockey captain, explains how she’s helping students reach their “goals” with single-gender middle-school classrooms and some inspiring lessons in all aspects of STEM learning.
Take a listen to a day in the life of a typical Catholic school in Western Washington that’s anything but! Host Brian Callanan gives you plenty to think about, and smile about, with an insider’s tour of St. Alphonsus Parish School on this episode of the Fulcrum Point.
Learn more about Fulcrum’s work to support Catholic education at this link.
At St. Alphonsus, our students read great books to join the Great Conversation—discovering timeless ideas, heroic characters, and enduring truths. This list highlights many of the titles our 4th–8th graders explore, some in adapted editions. Teachers thoughtfully rotate selections each year to keep the reading experience rich, fresh, and full of wonder.
St. Alphonsus Parish School is proud to celebrate alumna Sarah Van Hollebeke, Class of 2017, on her outstanding achievement as a Fulbright U.S. Student Scholar. Sarah’s academic path reflects the strength of a St. Alphonsus education and the excellence of our graduates.
After leaving St. Alphonsus, Sarah graduated from Bishop Blanchet High School in 2021 and went on to study at the University of Notre Dame, earning her degree in political science and German in 2025. She has now been awarded a prestigious Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship to Germany for the 2025–26 academic year.
The Fulbright Program, established in 1946, is the U.S. government’s flagship international exchange initiative, promoting cultural understanding and global leadership. Each year, thousands of students compete for the opportunity to represent the United States abroad, and Sarah’s success places her among the top young scholars in the nation.
We are deeply honored to count Sarah among our alumni and celebrate her as a shining example of what a St. Alphonsus education can inspire. Stories like hers remind us of the impact Catholic education has not only on students but also on the wider world. Congratulations, Sarah!
August 21 | 7:00–8:00 PM | Family Center
(immediately following New Family Orientation from 5:30–7:00 PM)
It’s more than just a sign-up night — it’s our official kickoff to the school year! Hosted by the Parent Club in collaboration with school leadership and the School Commission, Volunteer Palooza celebrates the heart of our school: you — our families.
We’ll showcase all the ways you can get involved at St. Alphonsus — from joyful events like Trunk-or-Treat, Holiday Hoopla, Bingo and more, along with our major fundraisers like Jog-a-thon and the Annual Auction.
Take on a lead role or support the many essential, behind-the-scenes roles that keep everything running smoothly, there is something for everyone.
Whether you’re new to St. Al’s or a returning family, this is the perfect opportunity to find your people, discover what brings you joy, and help shape an unforgettable school year — together.
Onward and upward Angels!
At St. Al’s, we’re fortunate to have amazing parents (and even extended families) who consistently show up, step in, and help bring our events and fundraisers to life — their time and energy are the heartbeat behind so many of the joyful memories we’ve created together. Thank you!
Now, we’re ready to grow that circle. Volunteer Palooza is about helping more families find their place in the story — not out of obligation, but through connection, joy, and shared purpose. With support from the Parent Club, clear expectations, helpful tools, and a strong leadership team, volunteering is more accessible (and more rewarding) than ever.
As part of our Fair Share commitment, each family is encouraged to contribute approximately 30 hours of volunteer time throughout the year. Volunteer Palooza is your chance to explore the many ways to get involved — from behind-the-scenes helpers to event co-leads — and begin planning how you’ll make your mark this year. Every hour matters and is needed!
Think of this event as a one-stop celebration where:
✨ Playground supervision, so kids can play while adults explore
✨ Joyful energy and warm welcomes
✨ A “volunteer fair” layout where each major event is showcased
✨ Descriptions, signups, and leadership roles clearly outlined
✨ Event playbooks, photos, and ideas so you don’t have to start from scratch
✨ Signup.com links to make it easy to jump in right away
✨ Fun, low-pressure ways to track your ~30-hour goal
✨ Snacks and sips to keep the good vibes going
Below are some of the ways you can get involved throughout the year. Whether you want to take a leadership role or support the school behind the scenes, on the day of an event, or from home, there’s a role that fits your schedule and strengths. Use the SignUp links (where available) to raise your hand early — and come to Volunteer Palooza to learn more and meet the event leads in person.
Chair: Beth Noble | Future Chairs-in-Training: Ryan & Natalie Haultain
2025 Jog-A-Thon PledgeStar Link
2025 Jog-A-Thon Volunteer Signup
Chair: TBD | Future Chairs-in-Training: TBD
Co-Chairs: Christine Cavanaugh & Michele Hanzeli
2025 Holiday Hoopla SignUp Link
Chair: Nissa Cooley; Co-Chair: TBD
2nd Annual Multicultural NIght & Potluck Signup Link
Chair: Jenna Brennan; Co-Chair TBD; Committee Leads TBD
37th Annual Auction Lead Roles/Committee SignUp
37th Annual Auction Week-of Volunteer Opportunities SignUp
37th Annual Auction Ticket RSVP
Co-Chairs: Jade Maynard & Trish Hilliard
Chair: TBD
2026 Junior Olympics Volunteer Signup
Chair: Terra Hakam
2025-2026 Bingo Fun & Volunteers
Chair: TBD
Chair: TBD
A heartfelt thank-you to our incredible Room Parents, who support teachers and classrooms all year long — coordinating parties, organizing donations, and helping build community. Your role is essential and deeply appreciated.
Fri Apr 11 at 7pm
Sat Apr 12 at 7pm
Sun Apr 13 at 2pm
St. Alphonsus Students
Extracurricular Involvement
Why did you choose St. Alphonsus for your children?
We chose St. Al’s because we desired a school that not only had a strong academic curriculum but also one which focused on values such as Compassion, Generosity, Respect, etc. Educating the full child was important to us and we felt St. Al’s reinforced what we were morally and spiritually working to teach her within our home. We were also attracted to how diverse the student body was and the incredible community the school fosters both on campus and off.
What do you love most about St. Alphonsus?
I love how happy my daughter is when I pick her up and drop her off. She loves the academic and social environment and loves being a member of the St Al’s student body. As a parent I also love seeing how much she has grown intellectually over the past 4+ years at the school. The teachers really care for each individual student and she has flourished each year through the care her teachers take in understanding what she needs in-order to continue to succeed.
Contact this Parent Ambassador
terrapurpura.hakam@gmail.com
St. Alphonsus Students
Extracurricular Involvement
Why did you choose St. Alphonsus for your children?
Our family choose to make a switch from SPS to St. Alphonsus in 2021 and it has become a huge blessing. In midst of Covid and with concerns about the academics for our daughters, we were prompted to explore school options and discovered the St. Als community. We were attracted to the school based on the academics, the small class sizes, and the values, including upholding behavior expectations. All of these benefits have been realized with so much more.
What do you love most about St. Alphonsus?
Our girls love St. Al’s, the commitment from their teachers and the new friendships with classmates. The academics have challenged them and when needed, they have received extra support from St. Al’s teachers/staff. Our girls, surprisingly, appreciate wearing uniforms to school as it makes the mornings so easy with one less decision/choice. They have had opportunities to try new clubs (chess), CYO sports and to pair up with younger class buddies as the school extends from Preschool through 8th grade. We all appreciate the community activities including the auction, Bingo nights, Halloween at school and more. We are relishing in our final year all 3 of our daughters will be together at St. Al’s.
Contact this Parent Ambassador
beth@petenoble.com
St. Alphonsus Students
Extracurricular Involvement
Why did you choose St. Alphonsus for your children?
When looking for a preschool for our oldest son, we hoped to find a school where our Catholic faith would be reinforced and enriched in the classroom. Finding a school that could also help him excel academically beyond preschool was a secondary goal. St. Alphonsus was both, and so much more. Within the first month at St. Al’s, it was evident that we had found a school that not only embraces the richness of the Catholic faith, but also encourages students and their families to reach their full potential in a welcoming community.
What do you love most about St. Alphonsus?
There is so much to love about St. Alphonsus! I love how our students know each other and are friends across all grades. I love how unmistakably our teachers and staff care for the students and their families. I love how our parents support each other and work together to make the school the best place it can be. And I love that St. Alphonsus is a place where our faith is celebrated and strengthened. Lots of schools have good academic programs and good faculty and staff. But not every school has a great culture and community. We feel very blessed to be a part of a school that has all those things and a rich legacy of faith and academic excellence for over 100 years. We feel loved by the St. Alphonsus community, and we love them!
Contact this Parent Ambassador
mhanzeli@gmail.com
St. Alphonsus Students
Extracurricular Involvement
Room Parent
Why did you choose St. Alphonsus for your children?
We initially chose St. Al’s because we had friends who spoke highly of the school, and the preschool had a part-time option that fit our care needs. We stay at St. Al’s because our kids are thriving emotionally and academically, the teachers are patient and knowledgeable, the staff is kind and helpful, and we are impressed by the dedication and vision of the school’s leadership.
What do you love most about St. Alphonsus?
The school community. Our family has felt seen and valued from the very beginning of our St. Al’s experience. Now, a few years and a second kid later, we’ve learned how important it is for a school to enable and encourage meaningful connections. That includes volunteering at one of the school’s many events (our family favorites are Jog-a-thon and Trunk or Treat), talking with a teacher about our kids’ achievements and development, attending a school theater production with our kids, or having a conversation with other parents after family mass.
Contact this Parent Ambassador
jerinfalkner@gmail.com
St. Alphonsus Students
Extracurricular Involvement
Why did you choose St. Alphonsus for your children?
While looking for a faith-based institution for our child and being a parishioner at St. Alphonsus, it was an easy decision to make. St. Al’s has a great community which was apparent in the first few tours/visits. And we found a curriculum that met the needs of our child well.
What do you love most about St. Alphonsus?
Warm community of families, supportive teachers, and faith centric education that enhances the spiritual side of the child along with great academics.
Contact this Parent Ambassador
kavita961@gmail.com
St. Alphonsus Students
Extracurricular Involvement
Why did you choose St. Alphonsus for your children?
I chose St. Alphonsus because of the small class sizes and excellent education, especially the split-gender middle school.
What do you love most about St. Alphonsus?
I love the community of St. Alphonsus and it continues to be a wonderful experience. Parents and teachers cooperate to give a wonderful nurturing environment to all children. I’m very grateful for the many lifelong relationships that have been created through the school involvement.
Contact this Parent Ambassador
maureen@chris-endres.com