Ready to Rise! Cristo Rey Students Embark on Montserrat Journey

Cristo Rey Jesuit Seattle officially kicked off its Montserrat Summer Bridge Program on July 22 and with it, welcomed a vibrant group of new students ready to learn, grow, and rise to the challenge. Designed to prepare incoming students for the academic and professional rigor of the school year, Montserrat blends community-building with foundational coursework and career readiness. 

One of the first week’s highlights was the UPOWER workshop, where students explored personal values, leadership, and resilience through Field Day activities. The laughter, teamwork, and shared goals set the tone for a spirit of collaboration that will carry into the school year.

In the classroom, students engaged in Professionalism and Business Technology courses. These sessions introduced essential workplace skills, from email etiquette and time management to digital literacy and Microsoft Office tools. Students practiced crafting professional communications and navigating business software—skills they'll be putting into practice every week in their Corporate Work Study placements.

Incoming ninth grader, Lydia shared: 

"The best part of Montserrat has been Ms. Zen's class where she teaches you about worker rights and labor laws. I’m surprised about how many students are cooperative and participatory—it makes me want to join in!"

Acting Principal Nolan Grady added: 

"I'm excited to see the students' academic prowess and dedication. I was in class and saw them all taking notes right away in all three classes."

The program draws its name from Montserrat, a mountain monastery in Spain where St. Ignatius laid down his sword and began a new path devoted to God. Just like Ignatius, our students are beginning their own journeys—embracing new habits of heart and mind and committing themselves to the climb toward college and career readiness.

It’s not always easy. But at CRJS, no one climbs alone. With support from peers, teachers, and workplace mentors, our students are already showing that they’re ready for the ascent.

This is just the beginning and if the first week is any sign, they’re going to shine!

On July 31, our incoming 9th graders and 10th grade transfer students ventured to Seattle University to celebrate the Feast of St. Ignatius. The students toured SU, celebrated Mass with Fr. Trung Pham, SJ in the Chapel of St. Ignatius, and learned about finding God in all things on SU’s beautiful campus.

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