In a remarkable milestone for JSerra Catholic High School, Mary Kelly, a graduate from the class of 2009, has become the first alumna to send her child, Patrick Kelly, to her alma mater. This significant event not only highlights the growth of the school but also reflects the deep connection alumni maintain with the JSerra community.

A Formative Experience

Mary Kelly's time at JSerra was during the school’s formative years. Graduating in 2009, she recalls the strong sense of pioneering spirit that characterized those early days. “My time at JSerra as a student was incredibly formative,” Mary says. “Being part of the early years felt like we were building something special. The community was tight-knit and supportive, and there was a shared commitment to shaping the school's identity.”

Mary was involved in numerous activities during her time as a student, including attending the football games and pep rallies, which she describes as some of her favorite high school memories. These events brought the community together in unforgettable ways. “It was moments like these that made my time at JSerra truly memorable,” she reflects.

JSerra’s Remarkable Growth

Since graduating, Mary has seen JSerra transform into a school that far surpasses its early aspirations. “The growth of JSerra since I was a student has been truly remarkable,” she says. One of the biggest changes, in her view, is the introduction of specialized magnet programs. “These programs are truly setting students up for success in ways we couldn’t have imagined back then,” Mary adds, noting that students now have specialized opportunities in areas such as law, engineering, medicine, business, and the arts.

While the school’s academic programs have expanded, Mary is also impressed with how the school has deepened its Catholic identity. “The sense of community and purpose that was strong when I attended is even more pronounced today,” she explains. For Mary, it’s inspiring to see the school continuing to shape well-rounded students who are academically strong and grounded in their faith.

Patrick Kelly: A New Journey

Now, Patrick Kelly, Mary’s son, is beginning his own journey at JSerra as a freshman. Patrick is following in his mother’s footsteps by immersing himself in the opportunities the school provides. He’s a member of the law magnet program, which has allowed him to explore his passion for law and critical thinking, and he is also on the wrestling team, where he is learning the values of discipline and teamwork. In addition, Patrick is involved with the Young Americans for Freedom club, where he’s actively engaging in political discussions and developing his leadership skills.

Patrick’s decision to attend JSerra was influenced not only by his mother’s experiences but also by the school’s emphasis on personal and spiritual growth. “Patrick felt that JSerra was the best place for him to grow, learn, and challenge himself,” Mary says proudly.

A Meaningful Choice for Mary

For Mary, the choice to send Patrick to JSerra was deeply significant. “It was incredibly important to me to send Patrick to JSerra, and not just because it’s my alma mater,” she shares. Having valued her own education at JSerra, Mary knew that the school would offer Patrick the same academic rigor and opportunities to grow. However, what mattered even more to her was JSerra’s unwavering commitment to Catholic values.

“As a parent, it was crucial for me to send Patrick to a school where faith wasn’t just something mentioned in name but actively lived out in daily life,” she says. Mary believes that JSerra’s dedication to spiritual growth and the integration of faith into every aspect of the school experience set it apart from other schools.

Returning as a Parent

Returning to JSerra, but this time as a parent, has been a unique and emotional experience for Mary. Watching Patrick navigate his freshman year brings back fond memories, especially during football games and events that remind her of her own time at the school. “It’s surreal to see the very first CIF championship flags from 2009 hanging in the gym—it’s a proud reminder of the legacy we helped build,” she says.

One of the most meaningful parts of her return has been reconnecting with familiar faces, including Mr. Eric Stroupe, a former teacher, now principal, who still remembers Mary from her time at JSerra. Yet, she also feels a sense of loss, particularly for Mr. Patrick Holligan, the dean during her years at the school. “He played an integral role in shaping my JSerra experience in so many positive ways, and his passing is deeply felt,” she recalls.

Despite the bittersweet moments, Mary is filled with gratitude to see how much JSerra has grown while maintaining its strong community and core values. “Being back, this time as a parent, has given me a renewed appreciation for everything JSerra offers,” she says.

A Legacy of Faith and Excellence

As Mary watches her son begin his journey at JSerra, she knows that he is part of something bigger—a legacy of faith, academic excellence, and community that now spans generations. “I’m so grateful Patrick gets to be part of this amazing environment,” Mary says, confident that JSerra will help him grow into the person God has intended him to become.

The Kelly family’s story marks a special chapter in JSerra’s history, as Patrick becomes the school’s first legacy student. It’s a testament to the lasting impact of JSerra’s education and community, and a beautiful reflection of how traditions continue to inspire and shape future generations.