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On Sunday, October 8, members of Ms. Jeannine Mitchell's Italian classes headed into San Francisco for an annual trip to take in some Italian culture. This year, the group's trip included the Italian Heritage Festival and Parade and the added delight of being in the city during Fleet Week.
The group of 15 students took the ferry from Larkspur to the ferry building and walked to the TransAmerica Building. This began their guided tour as Ms. Mitchell taught them about some of the San Francisco history and the murals and fenestration they were viewing along the way. Then, they headed to North Beach to explore. The class was divided into groups and given a list of notable Italian places (Biordi Deruta Ceramics, Mara Italian pastries, Stella Bakery, Giovanni Specialties, Caffe Trieste, etc.) on the block. They had an hour to traverse the area and enjoy some of the art, delicious food, and gifts that the area has to offer.
From North Beach, they walked to Washington Square toured St. Peter and Paul's Church and learned about the beautiful artwork inside and out. After all this walking, the group was ready for an authentic Italian lunch. They dined at Piccolo Forno, where they were able to enjoy both the food and the parade. Some of the students were even able to ride the Italian Community Services float and throw candy to the crowds!
The student's walking tour continued to the National Shrine of St Francis of Assisi, where Brother Bobby gave the group a tour and talked about the life of St. Francis, the shrine, and the city of Assisi. The final stop of the day was to Coit Tower, where the Blue Angels obliged by flying overhead through the beautiful blue skies of SF, as the students made it to their final stop. At the Tower, they toured the murals, while Ms. Mitchell explained more about the Depression, the 1906 earthquake, and fires.
It had been a wonderful day of some Italian, Catholic heritage, where the students were able to take what they have been learning in the classroom and get out and immerse themselves in the culture. Thank you, Ms. Mitchell for making this day happen for our students!
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