Queen of Angels 8th Graders “Leave Their Mark”

At Queen of Angels Catholic School, the tradition of eighth-grade handprints is much more than paint on a wall — it is a meaningful rite of passage that symbolizes each student’s growth, achievement, and lasting impact on our school community.

As students prepare to graduate, their handprints become a visible reminder of the journey they have taken from kindergarten through eighth grade. These colorful marks serve as a lasting legacy, reminding students that they will always have a home at Queen of Angels.

Yet the legacy of our eighth graders extends far beyond their handprints.

One of the most cherished experiences of the eighth-grade year is the Kindergarten Buddy Program. At the beginning of the school year, each kindergartner is paired with an eighth-grade buddy. Throughout the year, buddies sit together at Mass, participate in activities, and form meaningful connections rooted in faith and community.

For kindergartners, these older students become more than familiar faces. They are mentors, role models, and trusted friends who offer encouragement and help younger students feel confident and connected within the school community.

For eighth graders, the Buddy Program provides an opportunity to grow as leaders while learning the importance of patience, responsibility, and encouragement. It also allows students to reflect on their own experiences as young learners, making their final year at QA especially meaningful.

While handprints remain a treasured tradition, the true legacy of our eighth graders is found in the example they set, the relationships they build, and the hearts they touch. Their leadership and kindness strengthen the bonds within our school family and inspire future student leaders at Queen of Angels.