Catholic Schools Week 01-24-18 by Anton Community Newspapers

ANTON

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK An Anton Media Group Newspaper Supplement January 24 -January 30, 2018

ST. MARY’S ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Future leaders welcome. 1340 NORTHERN BOULEVARD, MANHASSET, NEW YORK 11030 Grades N-8 | www.stmaryelem.ws | 516 627 0184

ADMISSIONS

At St. Mary’s, students lives are shaped through spiritual and moral development rooted in the Catholic faith while unparalleled academics and extracurricular activities present real world experience.

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY JANUARY 28 12:00 NOON

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CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK • JANUARY 24 - 30, 2018

Teaching minds.

Guiding hearts. ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL • VISIT OUR OPEN HOUSE Sunday, January 28, 2018 OPENING MASS 9 AM • OPEN HOUSE 10 AM-1 PM Join us with the whole family for an opportunity to speak with students, faculty, and administration. Learn about our:

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Academic excellence High school preparation Updated facilities

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Broad range of activities and sports Traditions and social events Unique and caring community

“Preparing the whole person for the rigor of Catholic education and the challenges of life.”

EARLY EDUCATION • ELEMENTARY • MIDDLE SCHOOL

450 Franklin Avenue, Garden City • 516.747.2730 • www.st-josephschool.com

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CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK JANUARY 28 - FEBRUARY 3, 2018

What Is Catholic Schools Week? BY ANTON MEDIA STAFF

specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

atholic Schools Week is the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. It starts the last Sunday in January, which in 2018 is Jan. 28, and runs through Feb. 3. The theme for the Catholic Schools Week 2018 is “Learn. Serve. Lead. Succeed.” Schools typically observe the annual celebration week with masses, open houses and other activities for students, families, parishioners and community members. Through these events, schools focus on the value Catholic education provides to young people and its contributions to the church, communities and the nation. On Long Island, Catholic elementary schools celebrate the week with masses and open houses to thank parishioners, welcome visitors and introduce new families to the benefits of a Catholic education. These frequently kick off with a mass and open house on the first Sunday and a series of events designed to recognize the contributions of students, parents and faculty during the course of the week. Many schools offer additional open houses and opportunities to visit during the week as well. For more information, calendars of events and links to the schools, visit www.LICatholicElementarySchools.org.

Our Lady of Our Lady of Our Lady Our Lady of of Our Lady of Victory School Victory School Victory School Victory School Victory School

2 Bellmore Street

2 Bellmore Street Floral Park, 2 Bellmore StreetNY 2Floral Bellmore Street Park, NY Street 2 Bellmore 516-352-4466 Floral Park, NY Floral Park, NY 516-352-4466 Floral Park, NY 516-352-4466 516-352-4466 516-352-4466

Established 1931 Established 1931

Established Established 1931 1931 Established 1931

www.olvfp.org www.olvfp.org www.olvfp.org www.olvfp.org www.olvfp.org

OPEN OPEN OPEN OPEN OPEN HOUSE  and Safe and and nurturing environment  Safe environment  nurturing Safe nurturing environmentHOUSE HOUSE HOUSE Full Day Nursery, Pre-K and HOUSE  Full Day Nursery, Pre-K and  Full Day Nursery, Pre-K and  Full Day Nursery, Pre-K and Sunday,  Full Day Nursery, Pre-K and Sunday, Kindergarten Kindergarten Sunday, Sunday, Sunday, Kindergarten Kindergarten Kindergarten Safe and nurturing environment  Safe and nurturing environment

January 28th, 2018 January 28th,  Faith-values integrated curriculum  Faith-values integrated curriculum January 28th, 2018 2018 January 28th, January 28th,2018 2018  Faith-values integrated curriculum  Faith-values integrated curriculum  Faith-values integrated curriculum 11:30AM-1:00PM 11:30AM-1:00PM  Extended before/after school care 11:30AM-1:00PM Extended before/after school care 11:30AM-1:00PM  Extended before/after school careschool  Extended before/after care 11:30AM-1:00PM Extended before/after school care &&  Interactive Board inBoard every & && Interactive SMART inevery every  Interactive SMART Board in every SMART Interactive SMART Board in every Interactive SMART Board in   

Schools

Where and Where Faith and and Where Faith and Where Faith Where Faith and Knowledge Meet! Knowledge Meet! Knowledge Meet! Knowledge Meet! Knowledge Meet!

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Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday

K-8K-8 classroom K-8 ,, classroom K-8 classroom K-8classroom classroom , ,, State-of-the-art computer labcomputer  State-of-the-art computer lab 30th, State-of-the-art computer labJanuary January 30th, 2018 2018  State-of-the-art lab January 30th, 2018 January 30th,2018 2018 State-of-the-art computer lab January 30th, After school clubs  After school enrichment clubs clubs  enrichment After school enrichment clubs  After school enrichment After school enrichment clubs  Chromebook Program and Chromebook Program 6,76,7 and 8 8 6,7 and 8  Chromebook Program Chromebook Program 6,7 and and88 Chromebook Program 6,7  100% acceptance to Catholic 100% acceptance toacceptance Catholic High  100% toHigh Catholic High 100% acceptance Catholic High  100% acceptance to Catholic High Schools Schools Schools Schools

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CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

JANUARY 28 - FEBRUARY 3, 2018

100 Years Of Learning, Family And Faith BY JOSEPH CATRONE

Jcatrone@antonmediagroup.com

he story of St. Brigid/Our Lady of Hope School in Westbury is one of both significant progress and steady sameness since its founding in 1918. Now, with their 100th anniversary looming, Paul Clagnaz, the school’s principal since 1997, is looking forward to celebrating the legacy of a Catholic school that’s persevered through a continuously evolving educational landscape, all the while maintaining the inclusive and nurturing principles that have defined it from the beginning. “It’s very exciting. I’ve been here for 25 years, first as a teacher, then as an assistant principal and principal. As the anniversary approached and I knew I would be here for it, it’s a great milestone to be here to celebrate with the community,” Clagnaz said, before conceding, “Non-public school education is challenging, especially in New York State.” One challenge, Clagnaz notes, is that of declining enrollment over the years. In the mid-1960s, enrollment peaked at about 1,470 students, but by 1973, it was down to 990 and now sits at about 350, Clagnaz said. He also notes that the number of Sisters on the school’s faculty has diminished over the years, with only one currently on board. Despite these changes, Clagnaz considers enrollment “stable,” and a

suitable amount to work with. “What occurred at St. Brigid’s is basically what happened in the world of Catholic education or non-public education. In the ‘60s, enrollment started to decline and you had to make adjustments. You had to run as a smaller school. Now it’s 350 [students]. That’s kind of a comfortable number for us to operate with.” Clagnaz identifies the upgrading of technology in schools as one change that St. Brigid/Our Lady of Hope has adapted quite well to. He recalls that when he first arrived at the school, there was little more to offer in the way

of technology than a handful of Apple IIe computers. “Now we have Smartboards in practically every room. Teachers all have school-issued laptops; all the kids in grades 3-8 have a Chromebook,” said Clagnaz, who counts the school’s cutting edge approach to education as one of the things he’s most proud of. “It was not easy. If you’re going to have 350 Chromebook-users, then you have to have the infrastructure to support that. A lot went into it, many years of planning and several years of execution.” One thing that’s remained constant

over the years, however, is the school’s commitment to education, faith and diversity. Clagnaz, in an analogy that only could have come from a former teacher, compared the school’s set of ideals to an atom—the nucleus being the education element, and the faith acting as surrounding electrons, always remaining vital. “For many of the grades, the younger grades, [they’re taught] the golden rule. That permeates everything. When [faith] is appropriate, it comes up. When there’s something happening in the world, we can look at it through a Catholic perspective,” said Clagnaz. “Not everybody who attends here is Roman Catholic—most are—but we welcome children here from all faiths. We have embraced who we are as a diverse school community, so if you want your children to be in a place where there’s diversity, that’s a plus in this particular Catholic school.” Celebration plans for the school’s 100th anniversary are already underway, with a committee meeting on a monthly basis and filling in a year’s worth of events set to begin Sept. 1. Among the events is a mass to be held at St. Brigid’s Catholic Church on Post Avenue, for which Bishop of the Diocese of Rockville Centre John Barres has been invited as the main celebrant, schedule permitting. There will also be a procession down

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SCHOOLS WEEK • JANUARY 24 - 30, 2018 Anton full page CSW ad 2018:Layout 1 1/18/18 1:59 PMCATHOLIC Page 1

Catholic Schools Week Open Houses, Jan. 28-Feb. 3

A better environment for learning. The Catholic school diﬀerence is founded on a simple truth: students know that God loves and accepts them for who they really are. Uniforms help them avoid many of the surface-level distractions of social status and peer pressure, and children learn that their value is not based on how others see them, but on God’s always faithful love for them.

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To learn more about Catholic Schools Week Open Houses and to ﬁnd a school near you, call 516-678-5800 x 258 or visit us at www.LICatholicElementarySchools.org.

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CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK • JANUARY 24 - 30, 2018

100 Years Of Learning, Family And Faith Post Avenue and a Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving weekend, which Clagnaz expects will be well-attended by alumni. “What we’re trying to do is, we want to have things for all of the constituencies. We want to have something for the current families, we want to invite back the alumni, have something for the community and for the parishioners,” Clagnaz said, adding that the school also hopes to hold a celebration to recognize how much its demographic has changed over time. “Students were predominantly Italian and Irish. That’s changed over the years…we also have Haitian kids, African American kids, Asian kids, Filipino kids. It’s really a good representation of the reality of the world. So we will likely have a multicultural celebration, where families will bring in foods from their cultures.” Clagnaz takes pride knowing that students, who graduate from St. Brigid/Our Lady of Hope in eighth grade, are well-prepared to face high school, college and beyond. But, having attended both public and Catholic school and seeing education from multiple vantage points, Clagnaz can’t deny that the school has meant something even greater to its faculty, students and their families.

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Students visit Village Hall “There’s a sense of belonging, a sense of family. People don’t attend here because they happen to live in a geographic area; people come here because they choose to. They come from Westbury, Carle Place, East Meadow, all over the place,” Clagnaz said. “The children aren’t giving up anything because they go to Catholic school. We’re providing them with resources that are equal to or better than even some public schools offer.”

The Class of 1983 reunion.

Discover the Joy of Learning

Holy Child Academy

An Extraordinary Whole Child Approach to Mind, Body & Spirit

The dedication of St. Brigid School in 1965 as reported by The Westbury Times.

Published by Anton Media Group KARL V. ANTON, JR. Publisher, 1984–2000 Angela Susan Anton Editor and Publisher Frank A. Virga President Shari Egnasko Director of Sales Administration Steve Mosco Editor In Chief Betsy Abraham Senior Managing Editor Jennifer Fauci Managing Editor, Special Sections Karen Mengel Director of Production Alex Nuñez Art Director Iris Picone Director of Operations Joy Didonato Director of Circulation Linda Baccoli Director of Business Administration

Admissions Open House

Sunday, January 28th at 11:30am — 2pm • A premier, independent Catholic School, for children of all faiths — toddler through 8th grade • Challenging and creative program of study that results in outstanding high school acceptance rates • Joyful, inspired students from many backgrounds and religions • Financial Aid and Scholarship Program open to all 179553 C

25 Store Hill Road, Old Westbury, NY 11568 516-626-9300 | www. HolyChildAcademy.org

ADVERTISING SALES Julia Abreu, Mari Gaudet, Wendy Kates, Sal Massa, Maria Pruyn, Pat Salmon, Jeryl Sletteland

132 East Second Street, Mineola, NY 11501 Phone: 516-747- 8282 • Fax: 516-742-5867 advertising inquiries advertising@antonmediagroup.com circulation inquiries subscribe@antonmediagroup.com editorial submissions specialsections@antonmediagroup.com Anton Media Group © 2018

15 CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK â&#x20AC;¢ JANUARY 24 - 30, 2018

50 Years

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g n i t a r Celeb

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CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK JANUARY 28  FEBRUARY 3, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Catholic Schools Week?

Catholic Schools Week is an annual event, celebrated across the country during the last week in January. The week is set aside to celebrate the unique nature of the Catholic schools in each community. In addition to the internal events (teacher and parent recognition events, school ‘spirit’ days, special assemblies, etc.), it is also a week where the schools open their doors to the families of the Parish/Parishes they serve and to the general public who might be considering the benefits of a Catholic education.

As a school family, how do I participate?

the schools where parents and students can visit the school(s) they think they might be interested in and get a tour of the facility, be introduced to the teachers, meet some of the current families and children, and generally learn about the academic, spiritual, social and physical development programs.

Saint Anne’s Early Childhood Program

Each school publishes a complete list of events and activities taking place in their school during the week. School families are encouraged to visit the website of their school.

As a family considering a Catholic education, how do I learn more?

Catholic Schools Week features Open Houses at

As a prospective family, do I have an assigned school?

One of the first differences you will notice about Catholic school is that you get to select the school that you believe your children will be most successful in. There is no direct “assignment” based on where you live, and most school districts provide busing to the school of your choice within a 15-mile radius.

Is there a difference in tuition to attend a different school?

Long Island’s Catholic elementary schools set their own tuitions, so they vary slightly, but there is no penalty for choosing a school outside of your Parish or town if you are a Parishioner in the Diocese. The system of schools is an asset here on Long Island for all of the families of the Diocese and for all of the families of Long Island.

Catholic Schools Week Celebration 2018

OPEN HOUSE THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13TH - 7:30PM SAINT ANNE’S SCHOOL LIBRARY

OPEN HOUSE

Do you or a local friend or neighbor have a child entering Nursery or Pre-K in 2017? Consider the option of the highly successful Saint Anne’s Pre-School program. In addition to a nurturing environment built on the foundation of Catholic virtues, children will also have the opportunity to experience our state of the art facilities, such as the Saint Anne’s School technology lab, the library and even take their first official gym classes. Saint Anne’s is committed to a well-rounded academic and spiritual experience right from the start. Call 516-352-1205.

SACRAMENTS • SERVICE • SAINTS • SPIRIT • SCHOLARSHIP

OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, January 28th, 1-3PM

Please join the St. Anne’s Parish Family for Our Celebration Mass 11:45am

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25 Dartmouth Street, Garden City, NY 11530 516-352-1205 • www.stannesgcschool.org

SAINT ANNE’S SCHOOL 25 Dartmouth Street, Garden City, NY 11530

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SAINT ANNE’S SCHOOL

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What should parents look for during their visit?

Many parents of current students tell us that their decision was emotional and based on a feeling of warmth and caring they got during their visit. Others are more analytical and make direct comparisons based on the results on standardized test scores and high school admittance history. Regardless of how you make your decision, the schools are “open books” during this week, providing whatever information prospective families desire to support their decision. There is also a series of video interviews on the website (www. licatholicelementaryschools.org) where current parents offer their advice on how to get the most out of your visit.

Q Are non-Catholics welcome in the schools?

The schools are welcoming places to everyone without regard to race, religion or national origin. A religion class is a requirement, students participate in Liturgies, and faith is an integrated part of daily activities, but many schools have a significant population of students who attend because of the quality of the education alone.

Will attending Catholic elementary schools help my child get into a prestigious Catholic high school?

Attending a Catholic elementary school isn’t the only way to get into a Catholic high school, but it is still the best way. The Catholic high schools are open to all students and typically have a very significant number of students from a public school background. Students qualify for Catholic high school through a test for 8th graders that is administered in October of each year. Typically the students from Catholic elementary schools are

St. William the Abbot School Experience the genuine blending of spirituality and academics creating a foundation of success enjoyed by generations.

best prepared for the academic rigor, the integrated program of faith and values, and the service orientation of the high schools. Virtually all of the students from Catholic elementary schools (99 percent) are admitted to a Catholic high school, with the vast majority getting into the school that is their first choice.

When parents select a Catholic elementary school, what are the most frequently cited reasons? The reasons that are most frequently mentioned are: academic excellence, the reinforcement of the values lived at home, Catholic religious identity, a safe, nurturing environment for learning, more individualized attention to each student’s learning needs, an outstanding extracurricular program and the level of partnership established with parents.

How can I learn more or choose the school(s) I would like to visit? There is a resource for families on the Internet that provides a very complete picture of the Catholic elementary school experience. It features an interactive map that is your guide to each of Long island’s distinctive Catholic schools and that lets you view the geographic options for your children at www.licatholic elementaryschools.org.

N-8 OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 28, 2018 12:00PM—2:00 PM Catholic Core Education We are dedicated to academic excellence and to the spiritual development of our students within the framework of the Gospel and the traditions of the Catholic Church.

Common Core Education Our NYS Certified teachers incorporate ELA and Math Common Core Standards within the framework of a creative and rigorous curriculum, focusing on the academic growth of each and every child. NYS Common Core Tests are administered in 4th and 6th Grades ONLY, allowing our students the freedom and flexibility to enjoy learning!

Technology Education St. William the Abbot provides a futuristic environment to increase student performance. Chromebooks and iPads are part of daily instruction.

“SWS has given our children far more than an excellent academic experience. Having a school community entrenched in the values of Catholic education was a critical component in our choice of schools. In a world that often pushes children in the wrong direction, SWS has become our partner in raising morally strong, faith filled and happy children. We could not have made a better choice for our family.” Learn more about SWS by visiting stwilliamtheabbot.net

STREAM Integration St. William the Abbot STREAM encourages academic excellence through an intertwining of Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics, promoting collaboration, cooperation, and a sense of wonder for the beauty and complexity of God’s creation.

REGISTRATION N-8 Morning & After School Care

January 31, 2018 February 1, 2018 9:30AM—11:00AM

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Parent Testimonial

2001 Jackson Ave. Seaford, NY 11783 516-785-6784

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Yesterday, Toda

100 YEARS OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION AT

The St. Brigid/Our Lady of Hope Regional Scho

St. Brigid OLH

In 1904, Rev. William F. McGinnis, DD was the pastor of St. Brigid’s Church. It was Dr. McGinnis who was responsible for the building of the current beautiful stone church. Some time after the completion fo the new church, the old building was moved across Post Avenue, where it was remodeled to hold eight classrooms. This became the first school. Rev. William F. McGinnis

Rendering of the first school on Post Avenue in 1918. Today it is St. Anthony’s Hall.

1918

1933

1944

St. Brigid, the first Parochial School in Westbury, began classes for the first time. It was run by the Sisters of Notre Dame. Class of 1933

2004

The Catholic Elementary School Study Committee was formed by the archdiocese. This committee would take surveys and analyze the decline in enrollments.

2005

Partnership with St. John’s University School of Law for Middle School Mock Trial Program began.

2001

The World Trade Center was attacked on September 11th. Sadly, our school lost the father of two young girls that day.

2005

First SMART Boards (Interactive White Boards) installed

1997

Mr. Paul Clagnaz becomes Principal

1995

St. Brigid/Our Lady of Hope Regional School Mr. Paul Clagnaz renamed. Principal Fr. Francis X. Gaeta becomes pastor. He hired Christine Lombardi to be Principal. This was the first time in 72 years St. Brigid’s did not have a SSND as principal.

1987

Fr. James A. Sullivan became Pastor. Faced with a growing population and an overcrowded school, he went door to door begging for help from his devoted parishioners to build a new school.

1954

Fr. Thomas F. Code succeeded Fr. Sullivan and worked incessantly to raise funds to pay for the completion of the new school.

1955

The day of dedication. Bishop Kearney came to dedicate the New School. The school opened on September 8, 1955 with an enrollment of 1,020 students.

The New St. Brigid’s School was built in 1955 on property purchased from the Hicks family. Image from A Pictorial History of St. Brigid’s Parish by Alfred Peck

First grade 1975-1976

1975

Fr. Fred Schaefer becomes Pastor. A new wave of immigration was beginning. Funding was needed to allow these children to attend St. Brigid’s School. To help low enrollment school leaders decide to accept non-Catholic students.

1963

The popularity of St. Brigids School continued to grow. On October 7, 1963, ground broke for the new addition. In September 1965, the school opened with all students under one roof for the first time.

Class with SMART Board

2010

Boys Basketball Champs (Catholic Middle School Athletic Association)

2014

Celebrated Sister Marie Patrick’s Golden Jubilee as a School Sister of Notre Dame

2015

A new playground is dedicated for Early Childhood children.

2016

STEM Lab added to Middle School program

2017

Toddler Plus program added to offerings

2018

Google Expeditions (Virtual Reality) added to offerings

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Today And Tomorrow

onal School celebrates 100 years of education and community

t. Brigid/Our Lady of Hope School held its first classes in 1918, and had eight classrooms—four on the first floor and four on the second floor. The original schoolhouse, now used as a meeting hall known as St. Anthony’s Hall, still exists on Post Avenue and was built in the 1890s. By the 1950s, the school needed more space to meet its growing class sizes, and the current location at 101 Maple Ave. was built, with extensions added soon after. Today, the school is a learning community of children, professional educators, parents and families, clergy and lay ministers striving to share the message of Jesus Christ. —Joseph Catrone

2010 Boys Basketball Champs

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CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK JANUARY 28 - FEBRUARY 3, 2018

Experience The Difference A look at the Catholic High Schools of Long Island BY ANTON MEDIA STAFF

specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

ore than 11,000 young people discover learning and faith in the 10 Catholic high schools of Long Island. From southwestern Nassau County to the East End, these high schools reflect the tradition, commitment, and family spirit of their communities. Three are owned and operated by the Diocese of Rockville Centre, two grew from local parishes, and five are the apostolates of religious orders. Each has its own identity, but all are defined by academic excellence on a foundation rooted in faith.

Dedication to success in the classroom, however, is the hallmark that sets Catholic schools apart. About 99 percent of graduates from these schools continue their education at college, and last year, they earned more than $355 million in college scholarships and grants. The religious and lay faculties of Long Island’s Catholic high schools build upon history and tradition to deliver a contemporary education to their students. At St. Mary’s High School in Manhasset, for instance, students learn on iPads for a dynamic, interactive program of studies. Sacred Heart Academy in Hempstead, an all-girls school of the Sisters of St. Joseph, science education is complemented by participation in local and national science fairs, and partnerships with Hofstra University’s Fred DeMatteis School of Engineering and Applied Science and National Grid. In Riverhead, Bishop McGann-Mercy Diocesan High School students learn

Together in Learning, Together In Christ.

St. Aidan School 510/525 Willis Avenue | Williston Park www.staidanschool.org

You are Cordially Invited to Attend Our

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, January 28, 2018

St. Aidan School Offers: • Early Childhood Programs • Nursery • Full Day Pre-K-8th Grade • After School Care Program • State-of-the-Art Technology • Extracurricular Programs • Enrichment Programs

Over 65 Years of Excellence in Education For Registration Information Please Call 516-746-6585 ext. 9202/9302

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(Immediately following the 9:00am Mass until 12:30pm)

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about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through hands-on work in the school’s Apple computer lab. Kellenberg Memorial High School’s Robotics Club brings those disciplines together from design to creation in a collaborative setting. Alumni of Catholic high schools remain close to the mission of their almae matres. Years after graduating, alumni return regularly to catch a Cougars football game at St. John the Baptist in West Islip. Oyster Bay’s St. Dominic High School welcomes college-age alumni back every winter for a convivial luncheon. At St. Anthony’s High School in South Huntington, students realize that they are “classmates for four years, and Friars forever.” What keeps so many graduates connected to their Catholic high schools is the well-rounded, values-centered environment to form

the complete person. It’s reinforced by daily mass and food drives at Holy Trinity Diocesan High School in Hicksville. Young men of Chaminade High School in Mineola regularly perform service projects in the community. Young women are empowered by mission trips and a nurturing yet challenging program at Our Lady of Mercy Academy in Syosset. A host of extracurricular activities and interscholastic sports at each school further develop friendship, faith, and understanding. The goal of each Catholic high school is as sacred as it is simple—to provide young people with an education that challenges, inspires, and prepares students to lead successful lives at work, at home, and in the community. The Catholic High Schools Entrance Exam is used for admission to these 10 schools in the ninth grade. More information about the Catholic High Schools of Long Island can be found at www.CHSEE.org. Open Houses will also be scheduled for prospective candidates and their families in the fall.

St. Dominic Elementary School

O N E J O U R N E Y T H R O U G H FA I T H & E D U C AT I O N Pre-K Early Childhood Development • Montessori based program Elementary (K-5) • Age-Appropriate Core Curriculum with Extensive Enrichment Programs Middle School (6-8) • Algebra and Living Environment Regents • Dolan Campus Science & Communications Center • State of the Art Science Labs • Multimedia Production Studio • Competitive Athletics • Enrichment Programs

Call now to sChedule a visit! 516.922.4233 www.STDOMSOB.ORG 35 School Street, Oyster Bay NY 11771 180195 C

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St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Regional School in Bellmore

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

JANUARY 28 - FEBRUARY 3, 2018

St. Joseph School in Garden City Maria Regina School in Seaford

Our Lady of Mercy Tops On LI

St. Christopher School in Baldwin

Voted best private school, best teacher for Spaventa

BY JOSEPH CATRONE

Jcatrone@antonmediagroup.com

Holy Trinity Celebrates Catholic Schools Week Thank you to all the Catholic Elementary Schools within the Diocese of Rockville Centre who have helped shape and empower our students, faculty, and administrators in order to become active members of our school, our church, and our world. HOLY TRINITY DIOCESAN HIGH SCHOOL 98 Cherry Lane | Hicksville, NY | 11801 www.holytrinityhs.org 178866 C

Ask any educator why they do the work that they do and you’re unlikely to hear “recognition” as an answer, but public praise nonetheless acts as reassurance for teachers that they’re doing their best work possible. Our Lady of Mercy School in Hicksville received that reassurance in a big way as it was recently named the number one private school on Long Island in the Best of LI contest. Principal Jane Harrigan credited the hard work of her faculty as well as the support from the school’s parents for making the honor possible. “For the teachers, it validates how hard they’ve worked, and it spreads throughout the school,” Harrigan said. “It’s good as an administrator that the teachers are being recognized and great that parents think that we’re deserving of the honor. It’s a revalidation of support from them. It means that we’re putting out the product we say we are and that the parents who volunteer are seeing what they hope their kids are getting.” Additionally, kindergarten teacher Karen Spaventa was selected as best teacher, an honor that Harrigan noted was well deserved given her ability to connect with students, something that’s all the more

important in today’s education system given the competitive nature of the modern world. “It’s so hard for children with the world we live in now,” Harrigan reflected, before praising Spaventa. This [honor] shares the great job she does, with the community. If children have been through the kindergarten program and been in her class, they already know what she does. But for the outside community, they can see now that the kindergarteners get a strong foundation to move up to the older grades. [Spaventa] is creative, engaging, good at identifying children’s needs and good at channeling their energy into productive work. She keeps on developing.” Harrigan also noted that the recognition received by Our Lady of Mercy this year could help the school continue to improve in years to come, believing that it provides momentum and something to build upon. “We revisit yearly [to discuss ways to improve], but this is a sense of enthusiasm for the whole school, and it’s reinvigorating for all of the students and teachers,” Harrigan said. “We did this and now we have to continue. We want to maintain this and prove that we’ve earned this honor. We appreciate the support of the Hicksville and Plainview communities.”

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Welcome to the Circle of Mercy Family!

Our Lady of Mercy Academy offers young preparatory education rooted in Christian Discover the possibilities:

• Single-gender education creates a cultu

• Small class sizes allow for a personalize

• Honors, Advanced Placement, and colle To learn more or to schedule a personal • 91 graduates of the class of 2017 earned tour, contact Katherine Hackett ‘07, • All faiths welcome Director of Admissions & Recruitment at khackett@olma.org or 516-921-1047 ext. 138.

Our Lady of Mercy Academy Congratulates the Incoming Class of 2022

OUR LADY OF MERCY ACADEMY 815 Convent Road Syosset, NY 11791 www.olma.org 516.921.1047 x138 Educating young women with Faith, Compa

Our Lady of Mercy Academy offers young women an exemplary college preparatory education rooted in Christian values.

Discover the possibilities:

To learn more or to schedule a personal tour, contact Katherine Hackett ‘07, Director of Admissions & Recruitment at khackett@olma.org or 516-921-1047 ext. 138.

Educating young women with Faith, Compassion and Promise

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• Single-gender education creates a culture of academic achievement • Small class sizes allow for a personalized learning experience • Honors, Advanced Placement, and college course offerings • 91 graduates of the class of 2017 earned $21 million dollars in scholarships • All faiths welcome

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CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK • JANUARY 24 - 30, 2018

Tomorrow’s Hope Foundation

St. Joseph Church To Welcome Bishop Barres

Organization provides needs-based tuition assistance

Since its inception in 2005, the Tomorrow’s Hope Foundation has distributed more than 20 million dollars in aid to more than 17,000 qualifying students. Today, the Tomorrow’s Hope Foundation provides almost 2 million dollars annually that subsidizes tuitions. In some cases, schools and parishes also have scholarship funds available. Families are encouraged to speak with the principal at the school of their choice about the options available. There is also a Frequently Asked Questions sheet in the Financial Aid section of the www.LICatholicElementarySchools. org website. For more information, visit www. TomorrowsHopeFoundation.org. —Anton Media Staff

Catholic Schools Week is a time for Catholic schools to celebrate the extraordinary benefits and advantages offered by a Catholic school education. At St. Joseph School, it is an especially exciting time as the staff will be welcoming Bishop John Barres as a special guest at the opening mass on Sunday, Jan. 28 at 9 a.m. Bishop Barres is the bishop for the Diocese of Rockville Centre and a longtime supporter and advocate for Catholic education. This also marks Bishop Barres’ first Catholic Schools Week as Bishop of the Diocese of Rockville Centre since his installation as Bishop in January 2017. “It is a truly a blessing to welcome the Bishop during this special week,” said Dr. Michael Spinelli, president of the St. Joseph School Board. Immediately following the mass, St. Joseph School will host an open house throughout the school from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., highlighting the school’s different programs and

AG UR CO

E. M CO MP OM ASSION. C

™

Lead with Heart.

offerings. The entire community is welcome to come, meet Bishop Barres, and see what wonderful and exciting things are happening at St. Joseph School. For more information about St. Joseph School, visit www.st-josephschool.com. —Submitted by St. Joseph School

Our Lady of Mercy

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SACR E

The mission of the Tomorrow’s Hope Foundation is to provide tuition assistance for families who want their children to attend a Catholic elementary school, but need financial help to make it possible. The Tomorrow’s Hope Foundation solicits donations from individuals and corporations, and allocates that money to families based on financial need. A Tomorrow’s Hope grant is awarded anonymously to the family to offset the tuition cost based on family income and expenses. Alternately, through the Tomorrow’s Hope STAR Program, specific individual students are paired off with a STAR donor on a direct one-to-one basis. STAR program donors agree to contribute $2,500 a year in a donor/student relationship that often lasts for the duration of the child’s elementary school journey. STAR donors and “their students” have an ongoing dialogue and the donor gets to hear about, and participate in the academic career of a student.

SACRED HEART ACADEMY CONGRATULATES AND WELCOMES

520 South Oyster Bay Road Hicksville, NY 11801

the class of 2022

Educating students in faith, academics and service Catholic Schools Week: Sun. Jan 28 - Fri. Feb 2 Representing outstanding Catholic, private and public schools throughout Long Island, this select group of exceptionally talented young women will continue their academic and spiritual development within an atmosphere that fosters courage, commitment and compassion. To learn more about how we empower young women to Lead with Heart, visit our website or call (516) 483-7383.

Come visit our Open Houses: 11:45am - 2pm

Before and After Care

Tues. Jan 30

9:30am - 11am

After School Enrichment Program

Wed. Jan 31

1pm - 2pm

Principal: Mrs. Jane Harrigan

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(516) 433-7040 | www.olmshicks.org

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or call anytime for a tour

Sacred Heart Academy is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph, Brentwood.

(516) 483-7383 | 47 Cathedral Avenue, Hempstead, NY 11550 www.sacredheartacademyli.org

Nursery - 8th Grade

Sun. Jan 28

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CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK • JANUARY 24 - 30, 2018

Run, Mrs. O’Connell, Run BY ANTON MEDIA STAFF

specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

social media account, family and friends, the St. Aidan school community held a big paint night during the summer of 2017. O’Connell received pledges for almost $5,000 for Fred’s Team and the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. As the marathon approached, O’Connell shared her plans with the students at St. Aidan’s and shared the app which would allow everyone from the school to track her progress in real time and know exactly where she was throughout the entire 26.2 miles. O’Connell set a goal to finish in four-and-a-half hours and achieved it with a 4:25:12 finish time despite the rainy weather. The Monday following the marathon,

O’Connell arrived at St. Aidan’s to posters, pictures, cards, flowers and lots of excitement from the students. She used the opportunity to share how amazing the experience was and how important it is to set your goals high and never

give up. Students loved seeing her medal and she even wore her finisher jacket to school that day. “It was truly amazing to share the experience with all of them,” said O’Connell.

Congratulations to All Accepted Students Making History as the Class of 2022!

HOLY CROSS HIGH SCHOOL

• 12:1 Student to Teacher Ratio • Over 25 Honors and AP Courses Offered • Every Incoming Freshman is Provided with a Chromebook and Full Access to the Google Apps for Education • Class of 2017 Earned Over $20,000,000 in Academic Scholarships • 100% Graduation Rate

Our graduates have a competitive edge in regards to scholarships and programs with colleges and universities throughout the country including the University of Notre Dame, Stonehill College, King’s College, Holy Cross College, St. Edward’s University and University of Portland. For more information contact Mr. Robert Botero at 718-886-7250 ext. 558 Text: 718-309-0589 or email admissions@holycrosshs.org

26-20 Francis Lewis Blvd. Flushing, New York 11358

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For many people, a top bucket list item is running a marathon. For others, it is running and completing said marathon. Julie O’Connell is the assistant principal of St. Aidan School and she recently competed in, and completed the New York City Marathon. O’Connell, who only started running in 2014, generally ran about five miles at a time, but loved the clarity she experienced when she ran. In 2015, she started to train for a half marathon and began competing. As O’Connell began to consider competing in the New York City Marathon in late 2016, her mother-in-law passed away after an almost five-year battle with ovarian cancer. O’Connell’s memories of how the hospital and doctors at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center helped to extend her mother-in-law’s stage four diagnosis into almost five years of additional life was the incentive to choose “Fred’s Team” as her charity because it exclusively raises money for Memorial Sloan Kettering. In July of 2017, the mom of three busy young children, began a moderate training schedule. Between July 17 and Nov. 3, she ran a total of 450 miles, running weekdays at 5 a.m. and saving her 2 to 3 hour long runs for Saturday. Through O’Connell’s

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CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK • JANUARY 24 - 30, 2018

1/9/18 10:05 AM Page 1

Catholic Schools Week Open Houses • Jan. 28 - Feb. 3

A Better Learning Environment Leads To Better Outcomes

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Experts in the field of brain research are convinced that every child’s physical and emotional well-being is closely linked to their ability to think and to learn effectively. In short, the learner’s surroundings greatly impact his or her ability to learn. Many believe that it is this clear-cut difference in the surrounding environment that helps so many students from Catholic elementary schools achieve at the level they do. Catholic schools, by their expanded charter, are able to address some of the major shortcomings in the public education system. Perhaps most noticeable recently is that Catholic schools haven’t gotten sidetracked by ‘teaching to the test’ as many public schools have. Schools and teachers are not evaluated based on the scores of state tests, the results are simply used to improve instruction. In Catholic school, kids are accepted for who they are, uniforms remove many of the surface-level distractions of social status and peer pressure, and there is zero tolerance for the students and activities that would deprive others of their chance to learn. In Catholic school, children learn that their value is not based on how others see them. In a Catholic elementary school, each child learns that they are unique and important and created by God to fulfill a special purpose. Catholic schools also address life questions— where did we come from, where are we going, what’s it all about—not only with the help of the arts and sciences, but also with reference to God and the Catholic faith. Catholic schools are also places where each individual is known by name, and guided and nurtured through the process. This sends strong subconscious messages, such

as “I matter,” “this is a place where I can learn,” and “I am welcome here.” Students also interact with other students who are ‘achievers’ creating a competitive, yet supportive environment. They’re backed by parents who are actively involved in their children’s education, and students are led by teachers who demand, rather than request, that they succeed. Being part of a community that supports and celebrates your goals, and helps you achieve them, is a powerful motivator. But most importantly, a Catholic elementary school is a place that reminds children constantly that they are safe, they are loved, and that God loves them. This security prepares children for adulthood because they will have attained a sense of selfworth, preparing them for marriage and family, vocations of service to the Church and to be of service to one’s fellow human beings. You cannot underestimate the simple strength of the warm and loving environment Catholic elementary schools provide for children during their formative years. —Supplied by the Diocese of Rockville Centre. Visit www.licatholic elementaryschools.org for information.

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CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK • JANUARY 24 - 30, 2018

The Scientific Method

STEM statistics motivate Chaminade to launch $20 million project BY ANTHONY MURRAY

amurraY@antonmediagroup.com

haminade High School is nearing completion on its new Science, Technology and Research Center that is scheduled to open in the spring. The 34,000 squarefoot space will be the first of its kind for high school students in the tristate area. All of Chaminade’s 1,700 students will take classes in the science center, which includes seven new teaching labs where students will study biology, chemistry, physics, geosciences, fabrication and robotics. The new science center will also be a dedicated space for the school’s Science Olympiad team, a space which will be 40 times larger than its current facility. Students will also have access to the latest technology for hands-on analysis and research, including an Anatomage digital anatomy table, computerized lab probes, a Foucault pendulum, observatory dome and a hydrodynamics simulator. In the science center’s 10,000 square-foot basement, two thirds of that space will host a fabrication and robotics lab. 3D scanners, 3D printers, metal working tools and AutoCAD equipped computers will help empower students to design parts, construct their own robots and have them compete in elite competitions. In the biology labs, besides having access to a fleet of digital microscopes, students will now have the opportunity to use an Anatomage digital anatomy table, which will allow them to section and anatomize a 3D virtual life-sized human body with X-ray and surgical simulations. The science center’s rooftop is designed to accommodate both scientific instruction and environmental stewardship. The rooftop will feature a meteorological observation deck allowing students to study atmosphere, weather and sunlight. A digital programmable telescope for instruction in astronomy will reside in the center’s observatory dome. Also on the science center’s rooftop will be a low density soil mixture that will host a mass variety of different types of flowers and plants. The soil will manage run off while the flowers will shade the building from direct sunlight during the day and insulate the building during the night thus eliminating Chaminade’s cooling and heating costs. With all this amazing new technology at their disposal, the students at

Clockwise top left: Construction workers working on the electric wiring on the second floor of the science center. Chaminade High School’s new Science, Technology and Research Center—a $20 million project that will transform Chaminade’s science curriculum. One of the many hallways that are still under heavy construction. The first floor entry way to Chaminade’s new science center, which is slated to open in spring 2018. (Photos by Anthony Murray) Chaminade are pretty excited to get down to work. “We’re all wondering when we’re going to finally get a chance to get in and start working,” said Chaminade senior Aidan Fitzgerald. “I think with this new building we’re going to be able to go a lot deeper into certain topics than we would have been able to without it. I know the freshman class is really excited to spend four years getting to know the building and fully enjoy it.” Statistics on STEM in education and in the workplace is what motivated Chaminade’s decision to undertake this overwhelming and costly construction project. Just within the last decade, the number of STEM jobs grew 25 percent according to the U.S.

Bureau of Labor Statistics. “We have an obligation to provide our students with a strong foundation in science, technology and research,” said Brother Thomas Cleary, president of Chaminade. “It is of the utmost importance in today’s workforce. Our current facilities simply cannot be retrofitted to meet that need. The tools in the Science, Technology and Research Center will expand our students’ knowledge—preparing them for rigorous collegiate coursework and a competitive job market.” Chaminade has launched a daring $20 million fundraising campaign to fund the construction of the building and the technology and tools it will house. The support for the science center will come from parents,

alumni and alumni parents, among many others. Chaminade has already revamped its academic program in anticipation of the science center’s early spring opening. While organizing the continued importance of a solid liberal-arts curriculum, Chaminade has integrated more digital, collaborative coursework in classes across all subjects. “I think it comes down to the fact that we have to invest in our future,” said Fitzgerald. “Making our science program the best it possibly can be sets all of our students up to do the best that they can with finding a career and having all the tools at their disposal to make sure they can seize any opportunity they want to.”

COME VISIT OUR OPEN HOUSE Sunday January 28, 2018 2:00 pm Learn more about our programs for September 2018

Celebrating 100 years of Faith, Family & Knowledge

● Providing a quality Catholic education in our community since 1918 ● Transportation provided by your local school district for Grades K thru 8th ● Tomorrow’s Hope Foundation provides tuition assistance to qualified families (K-8) ● Se puede visitar las facilidades de la Escuela con guía que habla español ● Existen becas para estudiantes que cualifiquen. Información en español

Toddler A nurturing program for 18-month-olds and their caregivers Meets once per week (1.5 hours) Toddler Plus

A gentle introduction to preschool for 24 months + (separation program) Meets twice per week (1.5 hours each day)

Nursery School for 3 year olds Pre-K for 4 year olds

• Half day and full day programs are available for 3 and 5 days a week • After school program is available until 5:30 pm Full Day Kindergarten Participates in all Special Classes Elementary Grades 1-5

• Preparation of the Sacraments are included in day instruction • Fine Arts and Athletic programs available to all students • Our “Buddy” Program pairs different grades in a mentoring system both older and younger students learn from each other • Dedicated Chromebooks assigned to students in Grades 3 - 8

CATHOLIC

• Mock Trial Program / St John’s University • Mobile STEM Lab enhances learning in science, technology, engineering and math • Advanced Math & Science Regents Courses for qualified 8th Graders

LONG ISLAND The value of learning. The learning of values.

St. Brigid/Our Lady of Hope Regional School • 101 Maple Avenue, Westbury, NY 11590

516-333-0580 www.stbolh.org Serving the community since 1918 • Accredited by AdvanceED™

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

“St. Brigid/Our Lady of Hope School-Westbury”

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ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS OF

Middle School Grades 6-8