Grey Nun Academy Viewbook

Educating Children for Life.

GREY NUN ACADEMY

Viewbook

GREY NUN ACADEMY is an independent, Catholic, coeducational,

Mission

elementary and middle school in Bucks County, Pennsylvania for students in PreK to eighth grade. In the tradition of Saint Marguerite d’Youville, Mother of Universal Charity, Grey Nun Academy welcomes children of all faiths and cultures. Within an academically rigorous environment, students progress developmentally through two distinct divisions: Lower School grades PreK-5 and Middle School grades 6-8. ​Embracing its commitment to academic excellence for more than 55 years, Grey Nun Academy integrates learning with faith and action, while nurturing and encouraging the unique gifts found in each person.

Students receive technologically advanced instruction with increasing specialization throughout their school career. Together, the members of the Grey Nun Academy community inspire responsibility and compassion while preparing students to succeed in a changing world.

Philosophy GREY NUN ACADEMY is a community committed to a learning process that allows each child to attain a fuller knowledge of self, world, and God. As a faith-based, Catholic educational institution rooted in the philosophy and mission of the Grey Nuns of the Sacred Heart, our Academy articulates the moral standards implicit in all learning as we make Gospel values real to our students. Through our community’s emphasis on peace and social justice, students accept their responsibility to those in need and their role as good stewards of the earth.

We design an academically rich curriculum that meets the unique needs of individual students, respecting the rights, interests, and dignity of each child. It is this environment of respect and acceptance that instills these same qualities in our students. Our learning methods foster creativity and stimulate an inquiring spirit. In all, we enrich each child’s intellectual, spiritual, social, emotional, and physical development.

History Sponsored by the Grey Nuns of the Sacred Heart and located on the grounds of the former Motherhouse in Yardley, PA, Grey Nun Academy has a rich history and heritage dating back to 1963. Beginning with nine kindergarten students housed in the original Manor House on the Dietz estate in October of 1963, the original school was called D’Youville Manor Academy in honor of our community foundress, Marguerite d’Youville.

As the Sisters became established and well known in the local community, and the Academy began to grow, the school name was changed to Grey Nun Academy. Strong Board and Administrative leadership continued to

Grey Nun Academy nurtures EACH

STUDENT’S unique gifts.

support the mission of the Academy, and by 1968, a Home and School Association was initiated to allow parents to play an active and integral role which continues today.

By summer 1972, the adjacent Sacred Heart Junior College was closed and remodeled. The Academy’s lower school then took up residence in the former junior college building.

Subsequent building projects have provided a multipurpose gymnasium, the McKenna Center, and Moyle Gallery.

More than 55 years later, the Academy continues to thrive, proudly educating children to carry out the mission of the Grey Nuns of the Sacred Heart, and actively engaging students as thoughtful and compassionate members of society.

Academics

Programs The Academy’s strong academic programs are developmentally appropriate based

Guided by its mission, Grey Nun Academy is

on best practices. Students take the

an academically challenging, developmentally

following core subjects:

appropriate, nurturing, and faith-centered PreK to eighth grade school with a diverse, co-ed student population. We offer a full

F English/Language Arts (ELA) F Math

complement of core curricular classes as well as

F Religious Education

community service options. Grey Nun Academy’s

F Science

unique identity includes an intentional,

F Social Studies/History

sequential curriculum with an emphasis on research, reading, writing, oral presentation, mathematics and science, and a commitment to special subjects and interactive learning in our classrooms.

Co-curricular studies include: F Health and Physical Education F Library/Media Center F Music and Performing Arts F QUES2T Gifted and Talented Program F Spanish F STEM F Technology/Mac Lab F Visual Arts

ENROLLMENT Average class size offers a student teacher ratio of

7:1

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM: PREK (HALF OR FULL-DAY CLASSES) The PreK program provides an exceptionally nurturing environment focused on the education of the whole child. Our program meets the developmental needs of each student while helping them grow emotionally, socially, spiritually, physically, and intellectually. In keeping with the Academy’s mission, children learn decision-making skills, conflict resolution techniques, and respect for others and the environment.

Multi-sensory lessons allow students to explore and learn in child-centered activities. Introduction to technology begins in PreK, and students also receive instruction in art, library/media, music, physical education, and Spanish.

The PreK program is designed to give young students a strong educational foundation and prepare them for future academic success.

LOWER SCHOOL: GRADES K-5 At Grey Nun Academy, our youngest learners thrive in a caring, family-centered community that embraces parental involvement throughout the learning process. From participating in community service projects and after school programs to athletics and the arts, our parents are an active and integral presence on campus.

We know that early preparation lays the foundation for lifelong success. To support this, our dedicated

Milestones

faculty is committed to instilling confidence and

The sacraments of First

character while cultivating essential skills in literacy,

Reconciliation and First Eucharist

mathematical thinking, scientific exploration, and

are important milestones in the

creative expression. K-2 students continue to study

spiritual development of our Second

English/language arts, mathematics, world language (Spanish), religion, science, and social studies classes. Students use innovative technologies to accelerate learning and participate in a vibrant visual and performing arts program. Small classes and a

Grade students. The celebration of sacraments is family oriented and recognizes all that is good and special about each child.

Extended

Day Program available both before

and after school.

flexible, student-centered learning approach allows

In grades 3-5, students have a boundless capacity

teachers to meet the student’s individual need while

to develop higher-level thinking and abstract

educating the whole child.

reasoning. Our academic program features learning

Our nurturing and stimulating environment incorporates numerous hands-on multi-disciplinary learning experiences. Classes are collaborative yet individualized. They build on our students’ desire for active participation and their need for attention and support. Values-based education

experiences involving discussions that encourage children to understand the relationships between themselves, the community, society, and the environment. Our students learn to be thoughtful observers with the enthusiasm and courage to explore and improve the world around them.

is woven throughout our curriculum to reinforce

Woven into the program are academic disciplines

positive behaviors and build good habits and strong

that facilitate creative expression. The core

character. Outside the classroom, students may

curriculum is enhanced by learning experiences in

participate in our Extended Day Program, enroll in

library/media, Mac lab, physical education, QUES2T,

enrichment classes, and explore other opportunities

Spanish, technology, and visual and performing arts.

to challenge themselves and reach their potential.

Verbal expression is encouraged through a rigorous

Year after year, students continue to thrive within

creative writing focus, and frequent public speaking

the Academy’s supportive atmosphere, while

opportunities. Fifith grade students also study pre-

cultivating lifelong bonds with friends, faculty, and

algebra to prepare them for the accelerated Middle

administration.

School mathematics program.

MIDDLE SCHOOL: GRADES 6-8

topics in a foreign language; witness students

Adolescence is a time when dramatic physical,

writing short stories or reciting poetry as they begin

intellectual, social, and emotional changes occur.

Grey Nun Academy understands students in this age group and embraces this energetic stage of growth and self-discovery. The advantage of our

to discover their own voice. When our students step on the stage or put on their jerseys, they experience themselves as part of something bigger, something special. They strive for sucess, with high

smaller class sizes offers a powerful opportunity

expectations and support from faculty.

to build confidence, provide spiritual guidance,

We see the students for both who they are, and for

and instill an important sense of self-worth as students grow, mature, and learn to assume greater responsibility.

Throughout the Middle School, the energy is palpable. Capitalizing on the enthusiasm and

who they are becoming and celebrate their grace, vitality, and independence. When our students complete their Middle School journey, they are well-prepared for a college-preparatory curriculum in high school.

curiosity of these students, faculty instruct by using authentic problems, project-based learning, and technology. On a typical day, one might see students testing building materials for their Future City project or proposing solar energy solutions in STEM class; hear students debating cultural

For a full and comprehensive breakdown of the Lower & Middle School’s academic discipline focus, please visit our website at

www.greynunacademy.org under the ACADEMICS heading.

Students score among the

TOP 15% NATIONALLY on standardized tests

QUES2T (Gifted and Talented Program) The QUES2T (Questioning and Understanding in English, Science, Social Studies and Technology) Program at Grey Nun Academy is designed to give qualifying students meaningful and authentic learning opportunities in a Gifted and Talented classroom setting.

The program presents a depth of content as an extension of traditional classroom topics, and delves into independent study and research using multiple resources, including the reading of original documents. QUES2T students explore intellectual passions and express them in varied disciplines and mediums.

Questions are open-ended to Gifted and Talented learners and encourage perseverance in the face of challenges. The goal of QUES2T is to stretch and stimulate divergent and evaluative thinking.

Technology BLENDED LEARNING THROUGH TECHNOLOGY Interactive whiteboards in every classroom support the integration of technology across the curriculum to meet the challenge of technological competency in today’s society.

Students in grades 3 through 8 experience a 1:1 Chromebook

to student ratio, and students in grades PreK to 2 have a 1:1 iPad to student ratio to further support student learners of the 21st century. In this blended learning environment, instruction is focused to meet students at their level, supporting advanced as well as on-target learning.

Blended learning via technology is more than replacing

Grey Nun Academy believes the use of technology, as a tool to improve student learning, is an important long-term investment.

textbooks. It provides students

related to student learning:

tools for pacing, planning, time

facilitating ongoing formative

management, and increased communication with their teachers. Technology provides a variety of approaches for differentiating instruction.

Our data-driven research into the use of 1:1 technology and our own experiences indicates the following potential benefits

F Access to student work assessment

F Personalized learning / differentiated instruction F Enhanced student engagement, motivation, and ownership for learning

F Enhanced opportunities for group and project-based learning F Direct, real-time communication between teachers, students, and parents

Enrichment Programs AFTER SCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

SPECIALTY ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES

The After School Enrichment Program provides

Grey Nun Academy also offers the following

quality opportunities of engagement whereby students can broaden their horizons and stimulate creative thinking in a safe, convenient, and fun environment.

The program fosters relationships between students in different grades and offers avenues to form new friendships based on common interests. Classes are offered on a wide-range of subjects including visual and performing arts, foreign language, STEM, cooking, science, technology, and other categories.

specialty enrichment and educational opportunities for students: F Athletics: Including Co-Ed Soccer, Cross Country,

Boys Basketball, Girls Basketball, and Volleyball

F Community Service F D.A.R.E. F Future City Competition F Math Counts & Local Math Competitions F National Geographic Geography Bee F Pairing Partners F Reading Olympics F Student Council F Sciathlon

Faith & Service

Faith

Grey Nun Academy welcomes students of all faiths and cultures. The Academy also knows that each student’s religious journey is distinct to who they are as an individual. As such, respect for the diversity that our students and families bring to the Academy is celebrated and paramount to our teaching philosophy.

In an exploration of faith, prayer services are often held in the Sacred Heart Chapel where all students are invited to participate. Family and school masses are offered several times during the school year.

Pairing Partner Program

Service

The Academy was founded to live the mission and philosophy of the Grey Nuns of the Sacred

The Academy’s Pairing Partner program

Heart. As such, we participate in multiple monthly

assigns student partners from Lower

community service projects in the local, national,

and Middle schools each year to work

and international communities.

together on special projects. The

The Academy has a Campus Ministry coordinator

program benefits older children by educating them in the importance of mentoring younger children and what it truly means to be a good role model.

Younger children build confidence and strong bonds with older students.

This program is very popular among students and parents alike because it fosters an environment of open communication, cooperation, and mutual respect throughout our school community.

for religious education that organizes outreach efforts on behalf of all students, faculty, staff, and administration.

Guidance A full-time certified school counselor provides regular instruction as part of the academic curriculum.

Topics include: gratitude, compassion, teamwork, self-control, conflict resolution, and anti-bullying.

OVERSIGHT IS ALSO PROVIDED IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS: F Associate teachers in grades PreK to 2 F Conflict resolution F Division meetings to ensure a seamless transition as students advance to the next grade F High school application process and transition to high school F Individual and small group counseling F Learning specialists for grades 3-5 and 6-8

F Math and reading specialists F Outside psychologists who evaluate learning needs F Review of standardized test scores F Special needs and issues F Speech and language therapy F Student Council leadership F Testing for QUES2T

HIGH SCHOOLS ATTENDED BY GRADUATES • ARCHBISHOP WOOD HIGH SCHOOL • CONWELL-EGAN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL • GEORGE SCHOOL • GERMANTOWN ACADEMY • GERMANTOWN FRIENDS SCHOOL • GWYNEDD MERCY ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL • HOLY GHOST PREPARATORY SCHOOL • LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL • MOUNT SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY • NAZARETH ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL • NOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL • PEDDIE SCHOOL • PRINCETON DAY SCHOOL • ST. JOSEPH’S PREPARATORY SCHOOL • STUART COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL OF THE SACRED HEART • THE HUN SCHOOL OF PRINCETON • THE LAWRENCEVILLE SCHOOL • THE PENNINGTON SCHOOL • VILLA JOSEPH MARIE HIGH SCHOOL • VILLA VICTORIA ACADEMY • WILLIAM PENN CHARTER SCHOOL

GNAENROLLMENT@GNAEDU.ORG

How to Apply

a Grey Nun Academy education for your

FINANCIAL AID AND SHOLARSHIPS

child is to schedule a parent meeting and

Grey Nun Academy offers different

campus tour.

options to those families in need of tuition

The best way to discover the advantage of

During the initial interview, we will endeavor to learn about your child, your family, and the type of independent school education you are seeking. We will answer your questions and provide you with the

assistance. Need-based and merit-based scholarships and grants are available for qualifying students.  To submit an enrollment application and for information on current

necessary information to determine if

tuition rates, fees, and procedures

Grey Nun Academy is the right learning

for online financial aid applications,

environment for your family.

please visit our website at

www.greynunacademy.org

To schedule a parent meeting, please

under the ADMISSION heading.

contact the Director of Enrollment at

gnaenrollment@gnaedu.org or 215-968-4151.

GREY NUN ACADEMY • 1 7 5 0 Q U A R R Y R O A D , YA R D L E Y, PA 1 9 0 6 7

Profile of the Graduate ACADEMIC

SPIRITUAL

A GNA graduate is a fearless learner who is

A GNA graduate is developing a lifelong

well prepared for the rigors of top area high

relationship with God by:

schools and beyond, as demonstrated by:

F Serving others;

F Love of learning;

F Practicing mindful prayer and meditation;

F Preparation in all subject areas;

F U nderstanding and being open to other religions.

F Competence and expertise with technology; F Strong organizational, time management, and study skills;

SOCIAL A GNA graduate creates a compassionate

F Project-based and creative thinking;

world by:

F Self-confidence and clear communications;

F Valuing every being including self;

F Acceptance of challenges.

RELIGIOUS

F Advocating for peace; F Acting with integrity; F Showing respect for self and others;

A GNA graduate embraces Catholic values,

F Making positive life choices;

traditions, and beliefs by:

F Understanding leadership is a form of service;

F Articulating and demonstrating the values of Jesus;

F C ontinuing a lifelong relationship with the GNA

F Showing familiarity with the Old and New Testament; F Participating in religious celebrations; F Acting with a Christian conscience; F Being knowledgeable about current Catholic social teachings and learning to be advocates for the poor and needy in their everyday lives.

community.