Stella Maris Academy's Annual Family Picnic

As summer draws to a close, Stella Maris Academy welcomes families back with their traditional school year kickoff event. The annual picnic, which has become an institutional part of the academy's culture since its inception, brings together approximately 450 community members for an evening of reconnection and camaraderie.

"It's very informal. So there's not a rigidity to it or a substantial amount of planning. It's just simply a night where families come together and hang out and have a hotdog or a hamburger," academy President Andrew Hilliker explained. What makes this gathering special is its role as a reunion. After months apart during summer break, families and staff members eagerly reconnect. "A lot of times families haven't seen each other for the entire year, or the staff haven't seen each other for the entire summer," noted Hilliker. "It's like the reunion of our Stella Maris community that kicks off the school year."

The picnic also serves a deeper purpose beyond simple socializing. Mr. Hilliker believes it strengthens the school community in meaningful ways. "I think that there's a retention component to it. Families feel more invested when they know each other and they're desiring to be together. And it supports the culture of community we try to achieve as an academy."

The event's success relies heavily on collaboration, with everyone playing a part. From volunteer cooks and staff members handling food service to families simply showing up, each contribution matters. Though challenges exist—particularly with parking and managing food lines for the large crowd—the relaxed atmosphere helps everyone remain patient.

Feedback has been consistently positive, with students enjoying outdoor activities and bounce houses while parents appreciate the safe environment for catching up with other families. Most importantly, the picnic generates enthusiasm for the upcoming academic year. As Mr. Hilliker puts it, "I hope it brings a sense of excitement for the school year. It's hard to admit the summer is coming to an end, but there's goodness in all of that, and that's people coming back together."