The Fulcrum Point Season 2, Episode 3: A Day in the Life at St. Alphonsus Parish School, Seattle!

November 5, 2025

On this episode of the Fulcrum Point, we’re having some fun with one of the oldest Catholic schools in Seattle–but one that’s coming up with some of the newest and most innovative ways to connect with and educate students!

We’re learning all about St. Alphonsus Parish School, a pre-K through 8th school that has been operating since 1907 in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. Speaking with principal Nick Padrnos, we’re learning more about a program to organize middle schoolers that’s literally working like magic, a breakthrough in the battle over when kids should get a mobile phone, a project that helps provide affordable teacher housing, and more!

You’ll also hear from lead pre-K teacher Carissa Person about how support from the Fulcrum Foundation has helped classes for 3, 4, and 5-year-olds grow to unprecedented levels. Plus, math teacher Emma Min, a former college hockey captain, explains how she’s helping students reach their “goals” with single-gender middle-school classrooms and some inspiring lessons in all aspects of STEM learning.

Take a listen to a day in the life of a typical Catholic school in Western Washington that’s anything but! Host Brian Callanan gives you plenty to think about, and smile about, with an insider’s tour of St. Alphonsus Parish School on this episode of the Fulcrum Point.