At Salesian College Preparatory, education extends far beyond the classroom. Rooted in the values of faith, community, and service, the school’s annual Service Day offers students a powerful opportunity to live out those values in real and tangible ways.

On April 27th, in Faith Families, students stepped off campus and into the surrounding community, partnering with local churches, elementary schools, community organizations, and shoreline clean-up efforts. Whether they are assisting in classrooms, supporting parish activities, or helping restore natural spaces, students engage in meaningful acts of service that reflect Salesian’s commitment to forming compassionate, socially responsible leaders.

Service Day is more than volunteer work, it is an extension of the school’s emphasis on service learning. By connecting hands-on experiences with reflection and personal growth, students are encouraged to think critically about the needs of their community and their role within it. These experiences foster empathy, deepen understanding, and inspire a lifelong commitment to helping others.

Pictured: Senior students gathered together in their final Service Day as Salesian students at St. Joseph School. 

 

At local schools, Salesian students serve as mentors and role models, working with younger students and supporting teachers and staff. In churches, they assist with outreach efforts and community programs, strengthening bonds between the school and local parishes. Along nearby shorelines and public spaces, students contribute to environmental stewardship, helping preserve the beauty and health of their shared surroundings.

“My service day at Berkeley Humane Society had a meaningful impact on me, helping me grow in compassion and responsibility. Although some tasks, like cleaning, were challenging, they strengthened my understanding of the hard work involved in caring for the animals.” -Chidera U. ‘27    

Faculty and staff accompany students throughout the day and Faith Family moderators, guiding reflection and reinforcing the importance of service as a cornerstone of a Salesian education. Inspired by the tradition of St. John Bosco, students are reminded that small acts of kindness and presence can make a lasting difference.

Service Day also strengthens the sense of unity within the Salesian community. Students return to campus not only with a sense of accomplishment but with shared experiences that deepen their connection to one another and to the mission of the school. Through initiatives like Service Day, Salesian continues to empower students to lead with purpose, serve with compassion, and recognize the impact they can have on the world around them. It is a day that reflects who they are and who they are becoming.