Building Foundations: A Recap of the Montserrat Summer Bridge Program

The Montserrat Summer Bridge Program, which began on August 1, marked the start of a new chapter for our inaugural 9th grade class at Cristo Rey Jesuit Seattle. This transformative program is designed to prepare our students for high school while immersing them in the values and skills that will guide them throughout their academic and professional lives. 

The first day of Montserrat was a vibrant introduction to our Cristo Rey community. Students stepped onto campus with a mix of anticipation and excitement, ready to embark on their journey. The energy was palpable as they met their teachers, administrators, and fellow students, and began to learn their new schedules and expectations. It was a day filled with hope and potential, setting the stage for three weeks of growth and discovery. 

A cornerstone of the Montserrat experience is the emphasis on professional skills development. One highlight was a "Handshake and Networking Workshop". This was more than just a lesson in proper handshakes; it was a deep dive into making strong first impressions and engaging in meaningful conversations. Volunteers from the community helped students refine their skills, providing feedback on eye contact, tone, and engagement. These interactions were not just about preparing for future Corporate Work Study (CWS) placements but about building confidence and professionalism that will serve students well beyond their time at Cristo Rey. 

Students ventured beyond the classroom to visit prominent local universities, including the University of Washington and Seattle University. These visits offered a glimpse into the world of higher education and sparked excitement about future academic possibilities. Additionally, corporate visits to companies in Redmond and downtown Seattle provided valuable insights into various career fields, helping students understand the practical applications of their studies. 

Back on campus, students participated in a range of interactive and practical exercises designed to enhance their learning experience and prepare them for their high school courses. In math, they measured each other’s height and wingspan, calculated mean and median values, and applied these concepts in real-world contexts. These hands-on activities were designed to make learning engaging and relevant, while fostering a deeper understanding of how mathematical principles are relevant to everyday life. 

The culminating Tie Ceremony event was a powerful end to the program. Students proudly wore their new ties symbolizing their official membership in the Cristo Rey community. The applause and celebration reflected the unity and solidarity that define our new school. It was a moment of recognition and pride, marking the end of their summer journey and the beginning of their high school adventure. 

As students looked back on their experiences, their reflections revealed nervous anticipation to enthusiastic readiness. One student expressed their eager curiosity about the future: “Today, at the end of Montserrat Summer Bridge, I feel excited because I wonder what job I will have.” Another student said, “With this program, I will be able to become successful and make my family proud.” This sentiment was echoed by another student who shared, “I feel confident because I am ready to start school.” These heartfelt reflections underscore the program’s success in instilling a sense of preparedness and self-assurance in our students. 

Teachers also provided insights into the impact of the program. Dr. Yaiyr, Biology Teacher, remarked, “Students will be running experiments, collecting and analyzing data, graphing their results, and preparing reports about what they have learned. During Montserrat, students had the opportunity to practice all of these skills in preparation for the upcoming school year and beyond!” 

As the Montserrat Summer Bridge Program ends, we look ahead with excitement and optimism. We are incredibly proud of the achievements of our students and look forward to seeing them apply their newfound knowledge and skills as they step into the next phase of their educational journey. 

Watch this video which captures our incoming students as they take their first steps into high school life and embark on a new season of growth.