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Inside Welcome letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
St. Michael . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
St. John the Baptist . . . . . . . . . 4
Mount Notre Dame . . . . . . . . 17
St. Dominic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
St. Aloysius Gonzaga . . . . . . 18
Volunteers aid St. Boniface . . 7
John Paul II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
St. Aloysius on the Ohio . . . . . 8
Our Lady of Victory . . . . . . . . 20
Seton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
St. Al’s in Bridgetown . . . . . . 21
Roger Bacon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
St. Ignatius . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
St. James . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
McAuley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Mercy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
New science lab at St. James . . 24
La Salle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
St. Ursula Academy . . . . . . . . 26
Our Lady of Lourdes . . . . . . . 14
St. Jude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Contact Catholic Schools Week is a yearly publication organized by the Specialty Publications Department of The Community Press/The Community Recorder. Questions and comments can be sent to Editor Melissa Hayden c/o The Community Press/394 Wards Corner/Loveland, OH 45140 or e-mail mhayden@communitypress.com. Or call 248-7121. For advertising call 687-4614.
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Director of Educational Services and Superintendent of Catholic Schools Dr. Jim Rigg with students.
WELCOME LETTER
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ear friends of Catholic Schools, Each year, we set aside one week of the year to celebrate the excellence and heritage of our Catholic Schools. In the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, we are blessed with some of the finest Catholic schools in the country. Our schools are setting the standard for academic excellence; through the relentless dedication of our many talented teachers and administrators, Catholic school students are embracing our top-notch educational programs and are poised to become leaders in a changing world. Our schools have established warm, nurturing communities where students are valued and validated every day. Most importantly, our schools have accepted the call to embody the teachings of Christ and spread God’s good news to all people. The theme for Catholic Schools Week this year is “A+ for America.” As superintendent, I give our schools top marks for their academic superiority, nurtur-
ing communities, and faith-filled educational programs. During Catholic Schools Week, I hope that you join me in rejoicing in the strength of our schools. In the pages that follow, you will find accounts of some of the good things happening in our schools. I invite you to visit your local Catholic school and witness the excellence of our schools firsthand. Many of our schools are hosting open houses in the coming weeks; if you have school-aged children, I encourage you to contact a Catholic school, take a tour, and consider enrolling. Our schools are truly a blessing to Cincinnati. Happy Catholic Schools Week to all! Yours in Christ, Dr. Jim Rigg Director of Educational Services Superintendent of Catholic Schools Archdiocese of Cincinnati
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Giving back through service at St. John the Baptist School At St. John the Baptist School, in Colerain Township, faculty and students believe a Catholic education is more than what you get out of it – it’s about giving, too. That’s why along with academics, the school makes giving back to the community a priority. Students from preschool-age to eighth grade are involved in service projects throughout the year. One service project in particu-
lar took 60 eighth-grade students to the One Way Farm, where they prepared a pasta meal complete with salad and dessert. “It was an amazing experience that left the students all aglow,” said Jane Schaefer, the school’s coordinator of religious education. This high involvement in service is something that everyone at St. John’s is very proud of.
A recent survey given to parents and students revealed an expectation of good values and Christian responsibility is one of the school’s top strengths, along with providing superior academics and excellent teachers. St. John’s is hosting an open house Thursday, Feb. 3, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. To learn more, call 385-7970 or visit www.stjohnbluejays.org.
At St. John the Baptist School, faculty and students believe a Catholic education is more than what you get out of it – it’s about giving, too.
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St. Dominic School a vital part of Delhi St. Dominic School is literally a cornerstone in Delhi, situated at the farthest south end of the community on the corner of Pedretti Avenue and Delhi Road. The school provides a Catholic education for kindergarten through eighth grade and is a vital part of the Delhi community. One of the beliefs that St. Dominic operates under is to challenge the unique abilities of each student in such a manner
The teachers and staff challenge not only their students but themselves to achieve the highest goals possible. to develop Christian values, to enhance self-
worth, to attain academic excellence, and to build lifelong learning skills culminating in well-rounded individuals. The teachers and staff challenge not only their students but themselves to achieve the highest goals possible. They are a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, which is the most prestigious award given by the US Department of Education. St. Dominic also boasts five Distinguished
Teacher of the Year awards granted by the National Catholic Education Association including this year’s recipient, sixth-grade math and science teacher Jenny Teepen. Because Delhi is such a tight knit community where siblings, neighbors and cousins often times go all through elementary school together St. Dominic saw the need from their families to provide pre-school on-site, as well.
This is an exciting and ambitious addition to their organization and they will begin offering classes for 3-, 4- and 5year-olds in 2011. The class options will include a morning or afternoon session, a fullday session, a pre-K session and an after-school program when needed. The most exciting and progressive alternative to their preschool will be the ability for parents to pick and choose what days they would like their child to attend. Typically, preschools offer a Monday, Wednesday and Friday, or a Tuesday and Thursday class selection. This flexibility to create your child’s own schedule will be a great tool for parents that are trying to plan around work and school schedules, other activities and family obligations. St. Dominic School shares with each family the responsibility of helping each child develop spiritually, morally, academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. And by providing a flexible pre-school schedule with the same type of rewarding academic curriculum that they provide to K-8 students they can now reach out to families much earlier. There will be an open house at St. Dominic Wednesday, Feb. 2, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for families to learn more about the preschool and everyone is welcome who might be interested. To learn more about St. Dominic, visit their website at www.stdominic-k8.org or call the school office at 251-1276.
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Volunteers aid St. Boniface By Patricia A. Scheyer | Contributor Nestled in the inner city, in Northside, St. Boniface parish stands in quiet grandeur where it has stood since 1862, serving the community. “Even though the school has been here since 1862, the present building was dedicated in 1933, the same year chocolate chips were invented,” said Sister Ann Gorman, who co-principals the school along with Jason Fightmaster. “We have 184 students here, along with 18 preschoolers, and each day we have volunteers come to help us, and work on their studies,” she said. Currently the school has four brothers from their novitiate St. Gertrude in Madeira, novices whose job is to help by working in institutions like schools, nursing homes, and hospitals, anywhere the novice master thinks
they can benefit the most by helping and learning. “Our teachers outline tasks for the brothers, who started coming once a week in October, and they help with things like tutoring the students, or assisting with projects,” said Sister Ann. “We have a great recycling program going on right now with the eighth-graders, and our brothers are really enjoying working with the students on that. Volunteers add a lot to our school, and we are glad to have them. The children benefit greatly from the talents the volunteers bring. It is a win-win situation,” she said. Brother Jacob and Brother Thomas come to the school every Tuesday, and Brother Michael and Brother Gregory come Thursdays. They have a schedule noting where they should be when, and they are easy to spot
Brother Michael Mary Weibley, and Brother Gregory Maria Pine assist with music class with 18 preschoolers at St. Boniface school in Northside.
with their light, full length habits. They are cheerful, and friendly, and love working with the children. “We get to work with all different grades, so there is a wide age range,” said Brother Gregory. “We can see how the teaching adapts to each age level of children.” Brother Michael agrees. “We are able to see the joy and
innocence with which the children view life, and I think adults are so busy with their lives, they forget to see that view,” explained Brother Michael. “We are there to see when things connect in their minds, and it is wonderful to see that joy of discovery,” he said. Both brothers’ favorite part of volunteering is reading to the preschoolers.
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Building faith, values and academics at St. Aloysius St. Aloysius on the Ohio School builds faith, values and academics. Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River in historic Sayler Park, St. Aloysius on the Ohio School has been a great place for children to learn and grow for more than 136 years. In the past three years, major renovations were made to the building including the addition of air conditioning, sound-proof ceilings, windows and new student lockers. This school year the school features new computers and smart boards in the classrooms and a new computer lab
This school year the school features new computers and smart boards in the classrooms and a new computer lab equipped with 25 computers. equipped with 25 computers. They are also celebrating the school being nominated for the Panasonic National School Change Award. This award is given to six schools nationally for
positive changes in the school community. Each day, these classrooms come alive with activities as 125 students are challenged academically, nurtured spiritually, and tested physically. The students enjoy a safe, friendly environment that encourages mutual respect and self-discipline. St. Aloysius provides a solid faith-based Catholic education for pre-kindergarten through grade eight. The pre-kindergarten program, which is state certified, offers both full- and part-time options to meet the needs of the
students and parents’ work schedules. The school’s low student-toteacher ratio allows individual attention from a fully-certified staff. For students with special needs, academic support services are provided from specialists including a speech pathologist, reading specialist and disabilities tutor. Enrichment activities are offered through athletics, art, music, foreign language and one of the best Accelerated Reader programs in Cincinnati. Call 941-7831 or 941-3445 to schedule a personal tour and receive an information packet.
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January 31 - February 4, 2011 West
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Shine at Seton Enriched with exceptional academics in a faith-based education, Seton offers young women a college-prep comprehensive curriculum with 15 advanced placement classes, three online courses and volumes of electives. Once again this year, Seton is the only Catholic high school to be included in C-STEP, (Science, Technology, Engineering Program) funded by the National Science Foundation and based at the University of Cincinnati. A shining leader in Catholic education, Seton’s incredible state-of-the-art campus offers students everything they need to learn and excel. All students have their own personal Tablet PC. Students take notes on their tablets, receive worksheets and turn in assignments electronically. The best software available is integrated into the curriculum. The wireless campus literally
offers the world to students and the possibilities are endless. Combined with an experienced staff knowledgeable not only in their field, but in the world of technology, curriculum is presented by incorporating the best practices in education. Seton has a renowned performing arts tradition. For more than 40 years the Seton-Elder Performance Series has been producing exceptional entertainment, unlike any other program in the city. The setting at Seton includes an on-campus 900-seat air-conditioned Performance Hall equipped with all the amenities found in professional theaters. Seton is home to the Cincinnati Metropolitan Orchestra and advanced orchestral students have the opportunity to participate in the CMO. Through the leadership of the Sisters of Charity, Seton instructs
Shine the spotlight on Seton High School and see the star-studded offerings!
and challenges their students to thrive in an environment that promotes exceptional growth spiritually, academically, and personally, preparing young women for their future. From the class of 2010, 99 percent are continuing with post-secondary education. All students participate in community service. With over 30
co-curricular activities, 12 varsity sports and an exceptional fine arts program, Seton offers something for everyone. The welcoming atmosphere and spirit at Seton is legendary, with a national school spirit title to prove it! The Seton spotlight is waiting for you! Come and see how you can shine at Seton.
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Strong future for Roger Bacon High School News of Roger Bacon’s bright future is resonating throughout the city. Roger Bacon High School is changing and their future is strong. At RB, they have invested more than $3 million in capital improvements to our campus with a new library/media center, new art studios, additions to the guidance department and field turf to the stadium. However, the newest and most substantial change to date is Roger Bacon’s new selective, benchmark driven admission policy. The Class of 2014 is the first class to be admitted under this policy, and is the most selective in RB’s history. The new policy strengthens our core Franciscan values and is designed to ensure success for our students and school. The results are clear and positive. More than 70 percent of the freshmen class come to us
Students stand out and succeed at Roger Bacon High School.
from a Catholic grade school, academic levels are well balanced, parental involvement is high and most of all the students are engaging, excited and happy to be here! This is a change in the way they accept a Roger Bacon student. They continue to look to
their past and honor their traditions as they plan for a promising future. Roger Bacon High School will always provide a Franciscan education, they will always challenge young men and women to reach their potential and they will always maintain that closeknit family atmosphere that
makes us unique. Spread the word! Roger Bacon is the premier co-ed Catholic high school in Cincinnati. For details regarding admission contact Brandon Cowans, director of admission, at 641-1313 or bcowans@RogerBacon.org.
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Discover Saint James School, a premier private school other area options, it is one of the most comprehensive and affordable programs available. Saint James School is becoming one of the area’s leaders in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education. In August 2010, Saint James unveiled its new Science Lab designed to promote 21st
University of Cincinnati’s Fusion Center, which will enable the school to purchase equipment and provide school-wide professional development. In the near future, teachers will be able to illustrate concepts on tablet PCs attached to projectors. Students will also have the ability to utilize scientific probeware and laptop computers to collect and analyze realtime data. Saint James is moving forward in STEM education and creating a research community for its students. Of course we cannot forget that one of the most influential components of a solid education is still the classroom teacher. Saint James boasts a dynamic, caring, knowledgeable faculty, of which 50 percent hold advanced degrees. Saint James proudly employs two teachers who were honored as National Catholic Education Association Teachers Explore our new of the Year, as well as a full team of expestate-of-the-art science lab at our rienced educational specialists. For working parents, Saint James is convenient and accessible. Many families take advantage of the school’s Before 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. and After School Program. The Childcare Program is located onsite and staffed by the same personnel each morning and afternoon, giving stuDiscover dents a safe, fun place to go. the only The childcare staff provides snacks, homework support and fun activities for grade school students in a warm, child-centered enviin the nation ronment. Saint James is a mission-driven tthat has won the school, where both academic and personU U.S. Department al excellence is fostered, committed to of Education meeting the needs of all learners. The tradition of excellence carried on Blue Ribbon of through generations of White Oak famiEx Excellence Award lies remains steadfast. Saint James four times. School’s strong academic program is rooted in a Catholic values-based educawww.stjameswo.org tion. To discover all Saint James has to 6111 Cheviot Road, Cincinnati 45247 | 741-5333 offer, join the faculty and staff for their annual open house Sunday, Jan. 30, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Century Learning Skills. You’re invited to tour the school, meet the Containing both a wet and dry lab, this faculty, and gain further details regarding new facility enables students to improve their registration. One lucky visitor will receive a critical thinking and decision making skills $100 tuition credit for the 2011-2012 school through hands-on exploration. year. By focusing on learning by inquiry, For more information about Saint James kindergarten through eighth-grade students School or to schedule a personal tour, visit are being empowered to think like scientists. the website at www.StJamesWO.org, call the Additionally, Saint James has been award- school office at 741-5333, or e-mail the school ed a STEM Innovation Grant through the at infosjs@stjameswo.org.
Sain t Jam es W hite Oak
Saint James School is one of the premier private schools in our community. Having received four U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon of Excellence in Education Awards, Saint James is still the only elementary school in the nation to achieve this honor. Students ranging from kindergarten through eighth grade consistently score in the top 10 percent of national standardized tests. Students who graduate from Saint James are well prepared to succeed in high school, having received a strong academic foundation. The eighthStudents who grade class of 2010 was graduate offered a comfrom Saint bined total of $392,000 in James are scholarship well prepared funds. While stuto succeed in dents are prihigh school, marily Catholic, the having school welreceived a comes people of all faiths. strong The school academic accepts students at any foundation. level of their education. For example, it is not uncommon for a student to enroll at the beginning of sixth grade and transition quickly, thanks to the school’s nurturing environment. All students participate in weekly art, music and physical education classes taught by talented, licensed teachers. Students attend weekly technology classes taught by certified staff and have access to over 200 networked computers and SMART Boards school-wide. Junior high students have the opportunity to take two years of Spanish, and students at every grade level attend daily religion classes and weekly mass. The Saint James kindergarten program offers both half-day and full-day classes. The school’s experienced kindergarten teachers provide a strong foundation for a child’s academic future in a safe, caring environment. With a teacher-to-student ratio of one to 20, the kindergarten teachers provide each child with individualized attention to ensure success. Comparing Saint James kindergarten to
OPEN HOUSE January 30
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The Mother of Mercy difference changes lives Committed to preparing young women for the future, Mother of Mercy High School provides its students with the curriculum, resources and supportive environment necessary for success. Rooted in her faith and encouraged to continually grow, the “Mercy Effect” enlivens the spirit of each girl as she discovers her full potential and realizes there are no limits to what she can be. There are many unique components that create the Mercy Effect, but our students say three in particular make the real Mercy Difference: • First, Mercy’s curriculum is built around a collegiate “block” schedule consisting of four 85minute classes per day, which means classes meet every other day. While best preparing our students for the seminar-style instruction found in colleges, the immediate benefits of block
scheduling include an additional night to complete homework assignments, giving students more time to participate in extracurricular activities. Longer class periods also provide ample time for engaging discussions, in-depth laboratory work, extensive technology use and detailed research. Recent graduates are thrilled to share that they are better prepared for a college schedule than their classmates from other schools due to Mercy’s block schedule and their early experience in time management. • Secondly, Mercy provides its students an advanced and uniquely versatile technology program, encouraging girls to use the tool that is most appealing to them. Whether its their iPod, Laptop, SmartPhone or iPad, with Mercy’s fully wireless campus, students have the quick and ready access they need to supple-
ment their classroom learning with educational applications and filtered Internet sites. In addition to this optionsbased environment, Mercy has three state-of-the-art computer labs (PC, Mac and Graphic Arts), a media/library center, two resource rooms, five mobile laptop carts for on-demand class instruction, “loaner” laptops for home use, LCD projectors in every classroom, and numerous SMART Boards. Plus, Mercy has the West Side’s only fully equipped and sophisticated TV broadcast and video production studio in a girls’ school. In addition to all the technology on hand for students, Mercy provides grades online through Power School and uses “Blackboard,” a web-based Classroom Learning Management System (commonly used at colleges and universities)
for parents and students to communicate with teachers, access assignments and more. Mercy’s unique and advanced environment, that can so quickly adapt to technology’s fast paced changes and improvements, enables us to create technologically agile learners, confident with a broad spectrum of technology tools. Our programs’ success is evident in the increasing number of Mercy students pursuing IT careers as Network Engineers, Programmers, Web Designers, Medical Technicians and more. But every Mercy graduate, no matter her career choice, is best prepared for her future with the revolutionary, advanced technology program at Mother of Mercy. • Lastly, a Mercy student lives the values of faith, service, compassion, leadership and excel-
See MERCY on page 25
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Lancers answer the call to serve This year, La Salle High School launched the De La Salle Signum Fidei Institute (DLSFI) and a revised curriculum incorporating the latest tablet technology. Both programs have proven very successful in the first half of the school year. Signum Fidei (Latin for sign of faith) integrates the five Lasallian core values of faith, scholarship, service, community and leadership. Its mission: “The La Salle Servant Leader will have the experience and confidence to ethically lead in a 21st century environment, and be instilled with a faith-guided passion to apply his gifts and talents to better his local and global communities.” DLSFI is composed of many parts for one purpose – to challenge students daily to use their talents as leaders.
The DLSFI is unique in its approach to curriculum by incorporating leadership and faith development into the overall curriculum working in conjunction with the new tablet technology. As a part of Signum Fidei, each student becomes a member
of a faith-sharing community known as their Project Team. The Project Teams meet weekly throughout the year in the Signum Fidei Seminar where they will create their Service Initiative. This Service Initiative, led by
a senior, will build awareness of social needs in the school, the local, national and world-wide community; identify service projects; raise funds; and build prayer networks. This will serve as a major component of the Senior Capstone Project. All of these parts of the DLSFI are seamlessly united by the new tablet PC program and the updated curriculum. DLSFI also organizes all student body activities including dances, the student walk, the raffle, and the Truck Full of Love Canned Food Drive. This year 40,704 pounds of canned goods were collected for the less fortunate in the community during the four-week drive that took place from mid-October to mid-November.
See LA SALLE on page 18
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Principal Aimee Ellmaker works with students.
It’s an ‘exciting’ year for Our Lady of Lourdes “Exciting,” says Principal Aimee Ellmaker enthusiastically as she looks toward the next school year for Our Lady of Lourdes. The Catholic elementary school certainly has a lot coming up for the 2011-2012 academic year. Our Lady of Lourdes will offer a new all-day kindergarten program along with a half day kindergarten. “We saw a need in our parent community for this,” explains Ellmaker. “Also, the state of Ohio has mandated a full-day kindergarten program for public schools. We want to remain competitive and support the state academic standards, as well as offer flexibility for our parents.” Technology is going to play a big role in the 2011-2012 academic year. The school is updating their computer lab with 50 new computers. New Smart Boards for our classrooms have also been donated. Our Lady of Lourdes has one of the largest tech classrooms in the area and their own technology coordinator.
There’s also a new band, lead by a local retired musician. The Web site has a new look too. Please, visit the user friendly www.lourdes.org for a wealth of information. Although there’s lot’s of new things happening, Our Lady of Lourdes is focused on it’s purpose to lay the foundation of the basic beliefs and traditions of the church and strives to be a model of a Christian community in today’s world. They prepare their students to become productive members of society and to assume their responsibilities of discipleship. "We instill in our students a gentle spirit,” says Ellmaker. “This is revealed through the little things our students do like smiling, saying hello, holding open a door.” Our Lady of Lourdes continues to be “driven by service.” Students participate in a number of service projects that are not only meaningfully but truly get them involved. The students are making a daily difference in the community and world through projects like the Penny War
which will benefit Hope, a Christian-Palestinian program. They’ve also had collections for St. Leo’s Food Pantry, and many more. “Our mission is to provide service,” Ellmaker explains. “Service for the kids isn’t just collecting things either; it’s knowing why they are collecting. We embody service by using it in our daily vocabulary, our actions and projects. We want to teach children to strengthen and share their gifts with others.” The faculty, staff, and alumni together with the parents and students make a daily effort to live the gospel message in word, attitude, and action. Our Lady of Lourdes School strives to educate the whole person by promoting the spiritual, moral, intellectual, emotional, and physical development of each student in a valuecentered environment of mutual respect. “Everyone is here working for the same purpose, the students,” says Ellmaker. “We invested with our time, energy and hearts.” Academic excellence is achieved by a strong curriculum
and development of students’ individual talents. The hard work pays off and this is proven as their eighth grade students consistently placed in the top 10 percent in scholarship honors. The junior high News Bowl team ranks in the top 10 schools in the state and nation. Our Lady of Lourdes School was awarded the Governor’s Award of Excellence in Youth Science Opportunities from 2006 to 2010 with many students receiving Superior ratings at both the regional and state Science Fairs. With a fully automated library and two gymnasiums, students have an array of educational and extra curricular activities to expand their dreams and help them grow. This year Our Lady of Lourdes celebrates 84 years of excellence and openly invites your family to join in a partnership for better education, better life – a better world. There will be an open house 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 30. For more information, call 3472660.
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St. Michael offers a superior Catholic community Founded in 1927, St. Michael School has evolved into an academically superior Catholic community by relying on the support of parishioners and staff. It earned the Blue Ribbon Schools Award in 2009 and consistently graduate students that go on to be very successful at local Catholic high schools such as St. Xavier, Moeller, Mount Notre Dame, Fenwick and Ursuline Academy. St. Michael has been a cornerstone in Sharonville
for decades and has progressed along with the city’s growth. St. Michael School teaches kindergarten through eighth grade and has two classes for each grade with a maximum class size of 28. Its dedicated, caring faculty is comprised of recently degreed teachers as well as those with over 30 years of experience. St. Michael strives to provide a safe and nurturing environment in which each child can fully develop his/her potential: spir-
itually, academically and socially. Teachers and staff at St. Michael make a conscious effort to integrate faith into the daily lives of their students. Catholic Schools Week is a great opportunity for the school and community to share in the teachings and traditions of the Church. This year St. Michael School is taking the opportunity to celebrate Catholic Schools Week with an international theme to recognize the cultural diversity in their own community. The School is planning an International Day on Wednesday of Catholic Schools Week where each homeroom will make a presentation on a foreign country. Each class will be assigned a country of origin that they will research
to learn more about their particular culture. There are many students at St. Michael with parents from other coun-
St. Michael School has a long tradition of providing a solid Catholic education. It is a major part of
St. Michael strives to provide a safe and nurturing environment in which each child can fully develop his/her potential: spiritually, academically and socially. tries and St. Michael is approved by the Immigration and Naturalization Department to accept foreign exchange students and this year they are lucky enough to have two exchange students. These cultures will be celebrated and recognized as part of their diverse community.
their mission to assist their students in acquiring a sense of responsibility for themselves, the community in which they live and the world community. For more information about St. Michael, visit their website at www.stmichaelsharonville .org or call the school office for tour information at 554-3555.
Call 687-4614 to learn how you can be a part of the February 2011 edition of the Private School Directory, published bi-annually by The Community Press/Recorder.
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Mount Notre Dame: Positioning young women for success Mount Notre Dame offers a unique and complete college prep experience. It is an experience that is rooted in Catholic tradition and superior academic quality, but MND also offers vast extracurricular opportunities for its students that foster leadership, team work and a sense of responsibility to share their gifts with others. The result – bright, confident young women who go on to excel in college, career and in life. The foundation of the Mount Notre Dame experience is the impressive academic program. With 18 Advanced Placement and 22 Honors courses, MND’s Honors/AP opportunities (including an AP course available to freshmen) are among the best in the region. MND’s Scholars Program exposes qualifying students to not only the most challenging course of study and early exposure to college placement
and internationally, and is now a flagship program being replicated by 17 other area schools. Mount Notre Dame’s College Counseling and Guidance Department views the “Road to College” as a four-year partnership between the student, her parents, the academic team and her college counselor. MND’s systematic, yet customized approach to college counseling ensures that each young woman Walking through the halls, it is evident that Mount Notre Dame’s students support, arrives at the destination that is best for her. encourage and challenge each other. MND’s family spirit sets it tests, but also to a vast array of field. MND also boasts strong apart. Walking through the halls, career exploration opportunities. programs in the humanities that it is evident that Mount Notre The Tablet PC Program makes offer leadership opportunities Dame’s students support, the most of educational technolo- and a greater awareness of the encourage and challenge each gy and opens doors teachers and inter-connectedness of our global other. This environment produces students never even dreamed of society. MND is also deeply com- young women who think criticalknocking on just a few years ago. mitted to the role of women in ly to solve problems, work coopMND’s engineering courses philanthropy. Its student-run eratively in group settings, prepare the scientifically talented Youth Philanthropy Council is a delight in each other’s successes young women of today for a mini-foundation that has made See MOUNT NOTRE DAME on page 27 career in this male-dominated an impact regionally, nationally
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St. Aloysius enriches students By Patricia A. Scheyer Contributor Last year, faculty at St. Aloysius Gonzaga in Bridgetown made a decision to offer their students alternatives to their everyday routine of reading, writing and arithmetic. In order to present those alternatives, the faculty asked for volunteers who could teach the children something different, something out of the ordinary. Parents and teachers responded. “We decided to look
for some way to let the students have a choice in something,” said Principal Jim Leisring. “I know that when you choose something, usually you will be more engaged in it. “So we did an interest survey for the students, and narrowed the choices down, and offered the classes for many things like cooking, knitting, chess, art, crafts, jump roping, cake decorating, and playing board games,” he said. “They all have to sign up, but they all seem to
love it.” Last year the program was offered for 20 weeks, roughly two quarters, but this year the fun options will only last ten weeks. “It is hard to sustain interest in the same thing for 20 weeks,” said Leisring. “If we do it for one quarter, it stays fun.” Leisring is one of the people who volunteered to teach a hobby, and the interest he chose was chess. “Last year, I taught 20 children, from third through eighth grade, the basics of chess,” he said, and chuckled. “This year I am supposed to have an assistant. I have tables where two children sit across from each other, and I walk them through the basic moves of chess, like where each piece is allowed to move,” he said. “If I have someone
“Our school prides itself on doing different things, and giving children a personal choice gives them a tiny bit of control, which gives them self confidence. We may be a small school, but we like to think we can accomplish big things.” Jim Leisring, St. Aloysious Principal who has played before, I match them with someone who hasn’t played.” Kathy Holscher, a second-grade teacher at St. Aloysius and a member of the faculty committee in charge of the enrichment program, knows the new program is a hit with the children. “I have kids doing science programs, cooking, doing arts and crafts projects, and looking forward to coming to school on the day we have these classes,” she said. “We have boys who practice knitting in study hall because of these classes, and lots of boys who sign up for cooking. They love these classes,” said
Holscher. Leisring thinks they have hit on something very valuable for the development of their students. “We think these classes help the students become more well-rounded,” he said. “It also gives them enthusiasm, and a desire to learn. “Our school prides itself on doing different things, and giving children a personal choice gives them a tiny bit of control, which gives them self confidence. We may be a small school, but we like to think we can accomplish big things,” said Leisring.
La Salle | From page 13 Students contributed over 3,500 hours of Christian service. La Salle invites future Lancers to become part of the tradition and the
exciting changes by visiting www.futurelancers.com. Within this website you will be able to create your profile, sign up for
various events and learn more about La Salle High School. For information, contact Jake Pucci at 741-2365 or jpucci@lasallehs.net.
January 31 - February 4, 2011 West
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Random acts of kindness ‘permeate’ the lives of John Paul II students By Neva Martin | Contributor “Be the living expression of God’s kindness.” This message from Mother Teresa “permeates” the spirit of the John Paul II School building this year, said its principal, Norie Roach. “Our students are learning that it only takes one person to make a difference in the life of another,” said Roach. The students have made a difference by embracing the theme of Random Acts of Kindness, he added. “The students gathered in August for a prayer service to learn about the story of a child saving one starfish at a time,” Roach said. As each student performs these random acts, a starfish is added to decorate the lobby bulletin board, representing the difference each one is making in the life of another person.
These random acts don’t end at the school, but extend to the community. Student and staff alike have walked for hunger for Matthew 25: Ministries. They have collected money for the United Service Organization, which sends care packages to soldiers overseas. They have gathered canned goods for St. Vincent de Paul and Mount Healthy Food Alliance as well as worked with Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly to send Christmas care packages. Walking for hunger has excited fifth-graders Maria Richards, Fifth-graders Sophie Hunter and Ian Vogel point to John Paul II School’s lobby bulletin Ian Vogel and Sophie Hunter, board, where starfish represent random acts of kindness performed by the students. knowing they were part of a “This pay-it-forward act is Maloney has noticed, “Kindness community event that made such catching in every classroom and is catching!” Students have a difference for so many. hallway in the school,” said shown this kindness to one “It made me feel good knowRoach. “When one kindness is another by helping fellow classing that by doing the walk, I was done, one is passed forward. The mates who are struggling with feeding the hungry,” said Maria. students are beginning to recogassignments, by assisting For Veterans Day, the secondnize random acts in other peoyounger students to learn to read graders wrote letters to the solple.” or find their classrooms, and by As seventh-grader Lizzy helping them on the bus. See JOHN PAUL II on page 25
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Catholic Schools Week
Academic excellence rooted in a faith-filled environment In 1842 the first class entered the doors of Our Lady of Victory School. This first class had no idea that they would become the beginning of a tradition of academic excellence rooted in a faith-filled environment that has been Victory’s mission for over 169 years. With this comes a deep loyalty to the continuation of Victory’s mission. Over the past few years, Victory has increased the number of enrichment and intervention opportunities, renovated the science lab, started an Honors Algebra class, expanded its tech-
Victory teachers believe that all students can learn at high levels, and students excel, consistently scoring above the top 10 percent nationally on standardized tests. nology program, and introduced a K-8 foreign language program. Victory teachers believe that all students can learn at high lev-
els, and students excel, consistently scoring above the top 10 percent nationally on standardized tests. Victory’s teachers are recognized for their professional expertise and have been chosen for professional development opportunities such as a fellowship in Kenya and for awards such as the Mathematics Teacher of the Year. The heart of Victory’s mission is empowering students to live their faith. Through activities such as making blankets for the Linus Project or serving lunch at a local soup kitchen, Victory students
lovingly bless the lives of others. With a commitment to provide a well-rounded education, Victory is passionately dedicated to nurturing students’ talents. Co-curricular activities and fine arts opportunities abound. Our annual school musical draws audience members from all over Cincinnati. A compassionate community committed to academic excellence and spiritual development, parents choose to send their children to Victory because of the school’s dedication to providing an exemplary education in a nurturing environment where all children shine.
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Harvest Home Fair
January 31 - February 4, 2011 West
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St. Al’s in Bridgetown:
Proud to be a small school with big possibilities While super-size meals, bigscreen televisions and SUVs may be common, when it comes to schools, more and more parents are discovering that bigger isn’t always better. St. Aloysius Gonzaga School in Bridgetown is proud to call itself the “small school with big possibilities.” St. Al’s small size contributes to the warm, positive atmosphere parents and students find comfortable and welcoming. “From the moment we stepped into St. Al’s to take a tour of the school, we felt at home. As soon as our daughter met the teachers and staff, they never forgot who she was – even before she became a student at the school. Everyone, not just the faculty and staff, has been friendly and welcoming,”said parent
Monica Alexander whose daughter is now a St. Al’s kindergarten student. “We have been impressed with the technology that exists considering the smaller size of the school and we were drawn to the smaller class sizes which provide more personal attention and allow the faculty to better recognize individual strengths and weaknesses. Sometimes bigger isn’t always better,” she said. As the Alexander family has discovered, at St. Al’s “small” means lots of personal attention which helps students succeed within the strong academic program. Student math and reading scores are in the top 10 percent in the country. Graduating eighth-graders consistently achieve scholarships to local Catholic high schools as
well as honors program placement at both public and parochial high schools. State-of-the-art technology and diverse extra-curricular offerings add to the academic emphasis. A fully equipped computer lab, mobile laptops for student use, classrooms equipped with interactive whiteboards, and an automated library underscore the importance placed on having upto-date technology as a tool to enhance learning. Academic competitions, field trips, guest speakers and programs also regularly enhance lessons taught in the classrooms. These include Science Olympiad (St. Al’s teams have advanced to state competition the past two years), It’s Academic, spelling and geography bees,
speech contests, and the Young Authors competition. Again this winter students are participating in an in-school enrichment program that allows them to explore new interests. Students chose their enrichment topic from among offerings including calligraphy, creating a mosaic mural, sign language, and cooking. Every Friday afternoon a class period is devoted to pursuing this interest under the guidance of faculty, staff and volunteers. This program proved very popular with students last year while faculty and staff were pleased to see that when children are given choices about what they can explore, they are more engaged and the resulting enthu-
See ST. AL’S in BRIDGETOWN on page 25
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Catholic Schools Week
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St. Ignatius begins with ‘I’, ends with ‘us’ By Patricia A. Scheyer | Contributor St. Ignatius school in Montford Heights has always been about inclusion. A motto they adopted from an old football coach is that the school begins with “I” and ends with “us,” a remarkably succinct slogan that they live up to on an everyday basis. “I think everything we do stems from an increased determination to fulfill our mission,” said Tim Reilly, who has been principal for the last 17 years. “That mission is to help parents educate their children. We decided we needed to help them
educate all children, whether they have disabilities or not. I don’t like ‘no.’ Tell me what the child can do, not what he can’t do,” he said. Reilly went on to say that the students have taken to this approach very naturally, and for the most part, all of the students think disabilities don’t make another student better or worse, it just contributes to the makeup of their friends. “It is awesome, their total acceptance of each other,” said Reilly. “It widens the children’s spectrum of normal. And what is a surprising benefit is that all of our test scores have gone up.
“That says to me that the teachers are making a greater effort to reach all the children. For the past eight years, we have been at the top of the top 10 schools in the country,” he said. Reilly said about 8 percent of the school’s population of just over 1,000 students have disabilities, which is on a par with the national population average. There is no honor roll in the school, because that promotes competition within the student body, and Reilly stresses that competition should be within the student, to take the gifts they were given and stretch them as far as they can.
“This is a philosophy of being open to ‘yes’, of working with parents and teachers to bring out the best in the children,” said Reilly. “We did get an award for our outlook, and that was nice, but the bottom line is the child, and how we can respect them, and give them what they need to succeed,” he said. Lynn Thesing, advancement director for the school, agrees with the philosophy. “Here at this school it is very important that everyone is celebrated for their own gifts and talents,” she said. “We think it is so much more than a program – it is the right thing to do.”
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CreativeLiving
January 31 - February 4, 2011 West
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Your daughter is worth it at McAuley McAuley High School is a technology leader among all Catholic high schools in Cincinnati. In fact, one of McAuley’s finest teachers taught the entire Archdiocese how to use BlackBoard in 2003, when it was adopted. Now in the third year of the TabletPC program, McAuley continues to move forward and utilize the very latest technologies as we partner with parents to develop their daughters in so many ways. McAuley scholars daily organize all their class activities, notes, homework, and projects on their Tablets. Their textbooks are on their Tablets and they can access them at any time. The young women have easy access, as well, to many other resources, all without carrying overloaded backpacks. They participate in online class discus-
sions and study sessions, as well as turn in assignments through digital methods. They collaborate with sister students in group assignments, and the creativity the TabletPC inspires is nearly limitless. English students in Ms. Vissing’s English class use their tablets for an exam study session. There are so many reasons that a school-administered TabletPC program is superior to other technology approaches. It levels the playing field for all students. Everyone, students and teachers, has the same software and capabilities. McAuley has a dedicated staff member whose role is to assist the students with their TabletPC needs. A tablet computer is so much more versatile than a laptop; for example, the screen swivels and can be written on with a special stylus. Student keep their Tablets
most of the summer, except for a small period of time that the TabletPC is professionally readied for the next school year. Inappropriate websites, blogs, etc. can be blocked, ensuring that the students are focused academically. The TabletPC becomes the property of the student when she graduates, thereby saving money on a computer to take to college. Yes, your daughter is worth the investment in McAuley and its TabletPC Program. Read what some current freshmen have to say about their TabletPCs:
“My tablet has allowed me to take the initiative to not only learn, but explore, to understand the information in a way that works best for me, not necessarily the rest of my class. This tool will also be very useful in the future, as technology only continues to advance in our society.
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“Having a laptop has made my high school experience so much better and I never want to go back to the old ways again.”
Annie
Though we cannot be completely sure what the future will hold, we know where we are right now, and having my tablet is a distinct advan– Cara tage.” “The world is always at our fin– Ellie gertips for research.” “I am so grateful to have the tablet as a learning tool. Having my own personal computer allows me to organize my files as I wish and work on them at my own pace, not just when a computer is available to me. I truly think that the tablets are
See MCAULEY on page 27
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Catholic Schools Week
New science lab teaches hands-on learning at St. James By Neva Martin | Contributor
Be a part of the 2012 “Catholic Schools Week” program. Call 687-4614 for details. This program is published once a year during Catholic Schools Week with support of the Cincinnati Archdiocese.
When St. James School opened its doors this past fall, its students discovered an additional feature: a brand-new science lab, to enrich their learning and their lives. Through $100,000 garnered from grants, private donations and the annual “Panther Prowl” fundraiser at the White Oak school, the lab reflects a tremendous effort by the school community, said Doug Behr, seventh- and eighthgrade science teacher and science department chairman. “The construction effort was awesome,” said Behr. “Hudepohl Construction headed up the project with Frey Electric, Nieman Plumbing, Wittrock Woodworking and others all supplying materials and labor (so) we could accomplish the project within budget,” he said. For a functional, flexible space, they converted two existing classrooms into one large lab totaling about 1,760 square feet. To maximize the lab’s use, they installed a movable partition where the existing wall between the two rooms had been, allowing more than one class at a time to use the spaces. “The north side, the ‘wet’ side, has sink access to all group work spaces and a special flooring to eliminate slippery floor surface if there is a spill,” Behr said. “The south side of the lab, or the ‘dry’ side, has a traditional tile floor with eight (specialty) lab tables. There is one double sink and electricity throughout. Each lab table has electricity run to it through the floor,” he said. Both sides have projector systems hooked up to tablet PCs for graphically presenting material or conceptions, he added. St. James also received $8,000 for equipment from a grant from STEM (a method incorporating science, technology, engineering and mathematics) to help equip the labs with special laptop technology and to help the teachers receive training. Melissa Weingartner, who teaches sixth-grade science and math, said she began the year with scientific-method ideas as part of her Life Science curriculum.
Seventh-grader Kevin Bunger leads an experiment for kindergarten students by making oobleck, an interesting substance that acts as both a solid and a liquid.
“Students even designed their own experiments that were conducted in the lab,” said Weingartner. “We shared these with our younger grades to give them the lab experience, which was wonderful to see.” She said her classes used the lab to cover genetics and DNA, making their own DNA strands and models. “We designed a unit on plants and have created our own ‘winter greenhouse,’ growing beans, corn and fast plants,” said Weingartner. Fifth-grade science teacher Jennifer Strong said her students have performed many experiments and activities that include chemical reactions, heat energy and electricity. “We were able to have a spooky Halloween for the fifth- and sixthgraders as well,” said Strong. “The students are provided with a space to learn through hands-on activities and to see science happening in front of them.” Sherry Kembre, eighth-grade science and English teacher, said the new lab allows the teacher to prepare better for activities, since the materials needed for experimentation are conveniently at hand. “I feel the students take science more seriously, because they feel as if what they are doing and contributing to the class is important and worthwhile,” Kembre added. Behr said the lab is helping the students become better scientific thinkers and problem-solvers, ingraining behaviors at a younger and younger age.
January 31 - February 4, 2011 West Mercy | From page 12 lence every day. The development of clear values, a deepening of one’s faith, and reaching out in service to others are definite qualities of a Mercy education. These core values provide for a family-like atmosphere where
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St. Al’s in Bridgetown | From page 21 our young women feel acceptance early on and grow into confident women who will make a difference in their family, community, in their country and around the globe. This is the Mercy effect, and it makes all the difference.
John Paul II | From page 19 diers overseas to thank and honor them for their commitment. And in March during Lent, students and staff will participate in a retreat that focuses on acts of kindness through prayer, song and service. From kindergarten through eighth grade, the students will lend their time and talents for the poor, the hungry, the sick and lonely people in this world. Activities include making cards, sandwiches, care packages or
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school boxes. Seventh-graders Michael Nichols and Kyle Butz agreed that the Random Acts of Kindness theme is “helping kids learn how to help others.” “Being ‘the living expression of God’s kindness’ is shaping the school community,” Michael said. Kyle added, “The students are thinking of ways and willing to make a difference.” A difference in hundreds of lives, Roach said.
siasm carries over to the rest of their St. Al’s learning experiences. Beyond the school day, St. Al’s offers students extracurricular programs in athletics, drama, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, as well as an E-Club that promotes environmental education. While everyone at St. Al’s is proud of students’ academic success and extra-curricular participation, the school community’s greatest achievement is its expression of the Catholic faith and values that underlie the curriculum and all programs. St. Al’s School has strong support from the St. Al’s Parish community; the faculty and staff take seriously their role in promoting the greater parish mission: “to know Christ, to love Christ, to bring others to Christ.” In addition to daily religious instruction, weekly Mass participation and sacramental prepara-
tion, students put their faith in action through numerous community service opportunities offered at all grade levels. Come see for yourself all of the big possibilities our small school has to offer. Plan to attend the St. Al’s open house Sunday, Jan. 30, from 11:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you are seeking an outstanding kindergarten for your child, St. Al’s offers full or halfday options. A Kindergarten Information Night will be held Thursday, Feb. 3, at 7 p.m. For new families, registration for the 2011-12 academic year begins Feb. 13. You are welcome to visit our website at www.saintals.org or call the school at 574-4035 for more information. Personal tours can be easily scheduled as well as the opportunity to meet with staff or faculty members.
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Be unstoppable at St. Ursula Academy There’s a reason students come from more than 70 grade schools in three states to attend St. Ursula Academy. It’s worth it! It’s the demand for the entire SUA experience that has enabled the school to grow from 63 students in 1910 to nearly 700 today. St. Ursula Academy is considered a premiere private girls’ high school in Greater Cincinnati. For more than 100 years, St. Ursula has committed to academic excellence, relationship and character building and service rooted in Catholic values. SUA is known for high achievement in education, but focuses on the whole person to make sure every student enjoys a well-rounded high school experience. St. Ursula is a nurturing Catholic educational community where students thrive inside and outside of the classroom. Experienced and caring teachers,
coaches and staff unleash the potential of each student to become women of faith, integrity and courage. Our students build confidence, knowledge and friendships as part of their SUA experience. Ask an SUA student or parent or come see for yourself what makes St. Ursula so extraordinary. There are many opportunities to experience firsthand the SUA campus and state-of-the-art facilities, the talented teachers, the tradition and history and the unforgettable feeling you get when you walk in the door. “When I walked through the school for the first time, it felt special and I knew it was like no place I had ever been. I knew right away that this was the school for me,” said Sarah, SUA sophomore. Students come to St. Ursula from every corner of the Greater Cincinnati region. Students and
parents seek out St. Ursula because they know it is something special. Parents describe a feeling of peace and confidence knowing they have made a great choice for high school. They know their daughters will graduate from SUA with the tools they need to become tomorrow’s leaders with a strong foundation from SUA. Students develop friendships that last a lifetime. Class reunions and strong alumnae programs keep classmates and friends connected for life. It doesn’t take long for new and lasting friendships to form, whether incoming students know other girls on their first day or not. Our students become part of our family and feel nurtured by their caring teachers. St. Ursula Academy believes balance is important. Students find they can pursue many interests at SUA beyond the classroom. There are more than 40
student clubs and organizations that include hobbies, fine arts, honor societies, community service and much more. There are also several teams in 12 sports. There truly is something for everyone at SUA. Many students and graduates say they love the century-long traditions at St. Ursula Academy from the freshman “beanie day” to the senior tea and graduation in long white gowns and red roses. Upon graduation, students tell us they feel prepared for college. St. Ursula students are educated to be open-minded critical thinkers and lifelong learners who study all aspects of an issue and form opinions based upon inquiry and analysis. These skills give them selfconfidence, high self-esteem and integrity. SUA graduates are
See ST. URSULA ACADEMY on page 27
January 31 - February 4, 2011 West
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Mount Notre Dame | From page 17 and push one another to maximize their Godgiven gifts. To top it all off, MND’s athletic program not only consistently brings home state championships but also produces players sought after by the most competitive colleges. Georgetown, Northwestern and Vanderbilt are just a few of the universities that have MND Cougars wearing their colors. In the last two years, 35 seniors have signed to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. In addition, MND meets various student interests and develops
leadership through the nearly 50 clubs and organizations it offers. The Mount Notre Dame experience is one that nurtures the mind, body and soul. That commitment to the “whole person” is extremely evident in the MND’s Student Activities Program. From academic to adventure; the environment to equestrian; from minority interests to Model UN, whatever a student’s interests may be, chances are “MND has a club for that.” Many of MND’s clubs receive local, regional and national attention. MND’s Cougar Dance Team consistently
places in the top 10 at the national level, and MND’s theatre company was recently nominated for 10 CAPPIE awards and brought home four trophies, including “Best Play.” Mount Notre Dame definitely positions its students for success. It provides the young women of MND with the values and tools to succeed in high school, college and in their careers. Beyond that, the encouragement and support from faculty and friends instills a solid sense of self in the young women of MND, allowing them to succeed in life.
McAuley | From page 23 worth every penny. The tablets allow us to broaden our horizons and create more educational opportunities for ourselves.” – Tori “Having a laptop has made my high school experience so much better and I never want to go back to the old ways again.” – Annie
“We’re one system on a network with our teachers, who do monitor us. Everything is always in the same place. Classes move at the pace that fits everyone the best and things get done – Maddie effectively.” Come observe the great teaching, learning,
and technology that McAuley offers. Parents are most welcome to arrange a schoolday tour. Please contact Kathy Dietrich, director of admissions, at dietrichk@mcauleyhs.net or 681-1800, ext. 2272, and she will be happy to schedule a convenient day and time.
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CreativeLiving St. Ursula Academy | From page 26 aware of their own unique gifts and the responsibility they have to use these gifts to benefit themselves and others. Whatever a student’s hopes and dreams, St. Ursula Academy can help her achieve them. The guidance team begins to work personally with each student in her freshman year to help with the adjustment to high school and to make sure the classes fit the student. Student guidance continues every year to make sure each student is on track to meet her personal and education goals. In a student’s senior year, the guidance team offers many resources to assist with the college application and selection process, and the results are
impressive. In the past several years, between 85 percent and 89 percent of the seniors were offered merit scholarships for college in academics, athletics, the arts, and service totaling more than $22 million each year! The slogan “We are St. Ursula. We are Unstoppable” applies to each student and her personal goals. SUA teaches every girl to have confidence, to believe in herself and to pursue her dreams and goals. St. Ursula is the total package! Learn more today. For information or opportunities to visit SUA, please visit www.saintursula.org or call 961-3410.
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Catholic Schools Week
St. Jude School – The best of both worlds When searching for a school, parents are looking for the best for their children. Most like the intimacy of a small school, but also desire the selection of programs a large school can provide. St. Jude strives to attain both. “Class size was a big concern of mine,” said St. Jude mother, Marianne Dressman. “I didn’t want my first-grader in a class with so many children he wouldn’t get the attention I wanted for him. St. Jude offers homerooms of no more than 20 students. That’s an inviting size,” she said. Principal Bob Huber explained the St. Jude approach. “It’s essential that the students get off to a good start in their early education. To help achieve that goal, we’ve capped our homerooms at 20 in grades K-3,” he said. “For example, our current first
grade has a total of 59 students and three homerooms,” said Huber. “This creates an environment that combines the best of both worlds. Our primary teachers have small classes where they can interact effectively with their students, but they also have fellow teachers,” he said. “Having colleagues in the same grade allows for collaboration and sharing of ideas which greatly benefits our students,” said Huber. “Class size wasn’t the only thing we were seeking,” said Dressman. “The types and varieties of programs were also a major factor in our decision. This is why we ultimately chose St. Jude. Their facilities and programs are fantastic,” she said. “We’ve been systematically expanding our programs over the years,” said Huber.
“We opened our new Parish Center at the beginning of the 2006-2007 school year. This gave us the ability to add new programs and enhance the existing ones. “With the added space, we were able to open our kindergarten and extended day kindergarten programs. Our half day kindergarten program has been both popular and successful,” he said. “To accommodate our working parents, the half day kindergarten program can be combined with the extended day option to provide a full day program. We were also able to develop and grow our art, music, computer, and library programs,” said Huber. “We have and will continue to invest heavily in our students. Approximately $150,000 was spent to update our classroom presentations. All classrooms are
now equipped with SmartBoards, allowing the teachers to broaden presentations and enrich student interaction,” he said. “Another wonderful addition is our fully equipped science lab which enables students to experience hands-on science activities. Both are expected to return dividends in the form of increased student learning and performance.” “The bottom line is ‘How are our students doing?’ ” said Huber. “Our parents are expecting us to provide their children with a superior education. It’s our job to take the students entrusted to us and propel them to a higher level. “Last year, our eighth grade achieved approximately $275,000 in high school scholarships. These are the results our parents are anticipating and we consistently deliver,” he said.