Mrs. Mary Smith, ‘79, has been teaching at SSJ since 2003. Like Mrs. Burruel, one of her most special memories is taking her class on a field trip to the Andre House each year to sort donations. “The kids return with a great awareness of how fortunate they are, and they truly appreciate all of the blessings they have. The fifth grade year offers the students many exciting opportunities to work together, grow individually, and explore many learning environments. We have worked hard to unite the two classrooms as if they were one large family. Classroom lessons are coordinated between both teachers to ensure uniformity and consistency. Students may be separated physically by the wall between the two rooms; however, the students participate in most activities together. Our parties, field trips, special events, and many classroom activities are integrated which allow for the development of a close-knit community.”