For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the Bobcats are all finally back and better after a year and a half later.

“I’m so happy to be back on campus this year,” said junior Massima Ponce. “Online learning and hybrid was difficult and it lacked the community and sisterhood aspect, but now that we are all back on campus, it’s awesome to experience it again. My favorite part is walking in the halls and seeing all my OLLA sisters that I hadn’t seen since before quarantine. Now I finally feel like I’m truly back at school”.

August 18, 2021 now marks the comeback of the full student body. The 800+ students exuberantly filled the halls of campus, experiencing long awaited reunions when returning to their second home. The Class of 2025 had a successful first day at their new school, joining the OLLA sisterhood.

“My first day at Lourdes will definitely be one I will never forget. At first, I was a little bit nervous but everyone was so welcoming, said freshman Andrea Cardenal. “I am looking forward to the next four years”.

The day consisted of students attending each class for 15 minutes to ease into things. This allows students to become familiar with their fellow classmates, teachers, and material.

“The first day of school is always hectic, but being back on campus for the first day of school brought a new rush. The A/B day schedule for the first day brought so much excitement,” said junior Mia Lopez Varela. “I loved seeing my old friends and learning a little more about my teachers before we began our classes. My schedule this year is packed with new learning possibilities and I am so excited to see what the 2021-2022 school year has to bring”.

The short day ended with a dynamic Mass that began with a sing along to Casting Crowns song Thrive which was carried throughout the mass. Sister Carmen, along with theology teacher Mrs. Pino and Music teacher Mrs. Garcia-Bode introduced everyone to the new theme for the school year: thrive. Referring to last year’s uncertainties, God reminds us that “it’s time for us to more than just survive, we were made to thrive”.

“I think this year’s song is really a great way to describe each class and a great reminder that God is always there for us every step of the way. I catch myself singing it all the time now and it never fails to put me in a good mood,” said juniorIsabela Ocon.