Building Confidence Through Creative and Enriching Opportunities
Life at Stella Maris Academy is filled with opportunities for students to grow, lead, and serve. From the excitement of student council elections to the teamwork of sports and the challenge of academic decathlon, our elementary students learn the value of dedication, cooperation, and school spirit. Beyond the classroom, they extend their learning through meaningful community outreach, discovering the joy of helping others and living out their faith in action. Together, these experiences help our students develop confidence, compassion, and a lifelong love of learning.
Athletics
Our athletics program encourages teamwork, sportsmanship, and school spirit. Students in grades 4–8 have the opportunity to participate in a variety of team sports, competing with other Catholic schools in the Diocesan Parochial League. Many of our teams are led by dedicated parent volunteers who help students grow in skill, discipline, and confidence. Practice schedules vary by sport, ranging from once to four times per week.
To participate, student-athletes must maintain good academic standing and demonstrate responsible behavior both in and out of the classroom. Eligibility guidelines follow Diocesan standards and ensure that athletics remain a positive extension of our students’ education. Through competition and camaraderie, our student-athletes learn the value of effort, teamwork, and integrity—on and off the field.
Academic Decathlon
The Academic Junior High Decathlon is an exciting opportunity for students in grades 6–8 to challenge themselves and shine as scholars. This diocesan-wide competition features ten events that test a wide range of skills—from logic and teamwork to individual knowledge in subjects such as religion, literature, math, science, and current events. Students also explore the arts and strengthen their writing abilities through an optional essay component. Guided by dedicated coaches, our Decathlon team grows in confidence, collaboration, and intellectual curiosity while proudly representing Stella Maris Academy.
Student Council
Our Student Council gives students in grades 6–8 the chance to grow as leaders and serve their school community. Each spring, candidates campaign and share their ideas before the student body in grades 2–7 votes to elect new council members. Those elected begin their term in August, ready to represent their classmates and help plan school activities. Student Council members are dedicated students who maintain strong grades, model responsible behavior, and take pride in making Stella Maris Academy a vibrant and caring place for all.
Community Outreach
At Stella Maris Academy, we believe that living our faith means putting compassion into action. Through our Outreach to the Poor programs, students develop a deep moral awareness and a heartfelt desire to serve those in need. Throughout the year, students take part in meaningful service activities such as food and clothing drives, Advent and Lenten collections, recycling projects to support missions, and fundraising efforts like Project Piglet. Our students also volunteer with organizations including Catholic Charities, the San Diego Food Bank, and Friends of the Poor. From classroom initiatives to community events like the SMA Race for Literacy and Fr. Joe’s Thanksgiving 5K, each experience helps our students grow in gratitude, generosity, and a lifelong commitment to helping others.