PERRIS—In nearly 50 years of history St. James Catholic School in Perris has educated thousands of students and relied upon the selfless sacrifice of parent volunteers.

 So on December 3, when the California State legislators were sworn into office, it was with a great deal of satisfaction and pride that students gathered to watch the historic moment as former St. James PTG President and mother to five current students, Melissa Melendez, became the Assembly representative for the 67th District.

INDIO—Every year Our Lady of Perpetual Help School faculty, staff, students and parents make time to give to those who are less fortunate. Helping and serving others is always a reminder that sharing and making contributions teaches us to experience the gift of living out our Gospel values. One of the ways OLPH School shares the light of faith is by giving donations to Desert Mobile Home Park in Thermal, otherwise known as Duroville.

SAN BERNARDINO—A new elective but a not so new concept has become the latest discussion at Aquinas High School. 

 The philosophy course entitled “Critical Thinking” serves as an introduction to philosophical and critical thinking, providing the principles of good reasoning and logic. Taught by Mr. Jonathan Keck, a young and energetic teacher who joined the Aquinas faculty last fall, it also incorporates new technology into this age old study.

PALM DESERT—On their own volition, seventh graders Justin Wickstrand and Roman Putnam did not want to have a traditional Halloween trick or treating night. They decided that there was a greater need than their need for candy. A week prior to Halloween, Justin and Roman blanketed their neighborhood with flyers indicating that they would be picking up canned goods instead of candy on Halloween night.

By Andres Rivera
Staff Writer

RIVERSIDE—Around 130 youth gathered to celebrate and share their cultures at the 6th Annual Asian-Pacific Youth Day held Oct. 27 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Riverside. Themed “Roots before Branches,” the youth day offered talks, skits, music, activities, prayer and faith sharing.

RIVERSIDE—The California Association of School Counselors (CASC) has given an award to Notre Dame High School Principal Matt Luttringer for his dogged support of counseling programs, even in difficult budgetary times.