On September 9th and 10th, 2026, Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy’s freshmen class took part in a retreat that was designed to give students a break from their normal routines and connect with each other as a class. 

Away from their usual school day, freshmen took part in meaningful conversations, bonding games and moments of reflections focused on coming together as a class. The freshmen class also visited Santa Teresita, giving them the opportunity to share new experiences with their classmates. 

“I had fun because we really bonded with the [students at Santa Teresita],” said Micah Guzman ‘30.

For many freshmen, the retreat was a chance to connect through activities that encouraged teamwork and friendly competition. 

“My favorite part of the retreat was building cars and getting to race them with each other at the end,” stated exchange student Maja Mitschke ‘30. 

Although the freshmen retreat was a break from a regular school day, it was also an opportunity to get closer and form special connections with classmates. One of the most impactful parts of the retreat was a meaningful talk about sisterhood given by Co-director of College Counseling Mrs. Christina Acker ‘00, which encouraged students to reflect on their friendships with one another and support each other as a class. 

“The sisterhood talk taught me to trust others and to have an open mind,” said Elise Redfersdorf ‘30

Along with the more meaningful moments, students also had the opportunity to relax and have fun together. They went swimming and spent the night in the gym, creating memories that they will remember forever. 

“I liked sleeping in the gym because there were a lot of snacks and I liked the movie,” said exchange student Aenna Arnold ‘30.

Spending so much time together over the two days, gave the freshmen the opportunity to get to know classmates they would not normally talk to. Between the talks, games and sleepover, freshmen were able to form new friendships and strengthen their connections with each other. 

“I made more friends on retreat and I loved getting to hang out with my friends, and having a sleepover with them,” said Rosalind Goings ‘30

Although the retreat was short, it gave the students time to step away from their usual schedules and focus on connecting as a class. From racing cars they made themselves to swimming together, going to Santa Teresita and learning the meaning of FSHA’s sisterhood, the retreat gave freshman experiences they can share as they begin their first year of high school.