Priory Admissions Viewbook 2020-21

O U TSTA N D I N G P R E PA R AT I O N FO R A N E XC E P T I O N A L L I F E

www.priory.org 500 South Mason Road, St. Louis, MO 63141

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welcome TO

PRIORY

When I was 11, I chose Priory because I wanted a second home. I got so much more: mentors who challenged me, friends who supported me, and a community who treated me like Christ. I’m now part of a life-giving tradition steeped in wisdom. I couldn’t have asked for more.

Father Cuthbert Elliott O.S.B. ‘02 Headmaster

THE LATIN PHRASE BENEATH THE PRIORY SHIELD MEANS PRAISE TO YOU, O LORD.

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mission S TAT E M E N T

The mission of Saint Louis Priory School is to provide a Catholic, Benedictine, college preparatory education of the highest excellence so as to help talented and motivated young men develop their full potential as children of God.

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PRIORY AT A GLANCE PRIORY OFFERS AN OUTSTANDING COLLEGE PREPARATORY EXPERIENCE GUIDED BY CATHOLIC, BENEDICTINE VALUES THAT CULTIVATE FAITHCENTERED, EDUCATED YOUNG MEN.

ALL BOYS

Our Benedictine approach to education is designed to develop young men in mind, body, and spirit through a balance of disciplines that challenge the whole person while cultivating a lifelong sense of community.

STUDENTS FROM: • 50+ ZIP CODES • INDEPENDENT, PAROCHIAL, PRIVATE, AND PUBLIC SCHOOLS

GRADES 7-12 350 STUDENTS 150-ACRE CAMPUS

$2.2 MILLION AWARDED IN TUITION ASSISTANCE (2020/2021)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

6 | PRIORY HISTORY

7 | CATHOLIC FOUNDATIONS

10 | ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

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Priory has been in my family for decades. What makes Priory special to me is the brotherhood. You know everyone knows you. And it’s a really special thing.

Harrison Wilmsen, Class of 2021 Son of James Wilmsen ‘86

SCHOOL HISTORY SAINT LOUIS PRIORY SCHOOL IS AN ALL-BOYS, CATHOLIC SECONDARY SCHOOL WITH A RICH, 60+ YEAR STORY. In 1956, a group of St. Louis Catholics and three Benedictine monks from Ampleforth Abbey in Yorkshire, England, founded an all-boys, college preparatory school for the education of local students in the Catholic faith and the liberal arts.

Today, more than 20 Benedictine monks continue their order’s centuries-old tradition of providing a liberal arts education for future servant leaders. Students who enter Priory in the seventh grade graduate six years later not only prepared for advanced study, but shaped by the 12 Benedictine Hallmarks and an appreciation for sharing new ideas.

More than 60 years after the school’s founding, its students and alumni continue to aspire to leadership in their communities through humble 6 PRIORY | www.priory.org

service and unfeigned love of God and neighbor.

Priory is a proud member of: • College Board • Independent Schools of Saint Louis • Independent Schools Association of the Central States • National Association of Independent Schools • National Catholic Educational Association

catholic F O U N D AT I O N S 08 | Theology 09 | Equity and Inclusion

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THEOLOGY AT PRIORY AT PRIORY, WE CARVE OUT TIME IN OUR STUDENTS’ BUSY SCHEDULES TO ASK SOME OF LIFE’S MOST SIGNIFICANT QUESTIONS: WHO IS GOD? HOW DO WE KNOW HIM? WHY DID HE CREATE US? HOW DO HIS GIFTS OF LIFE AND GRACE SHAPE OUR RESPONSIBILITIES TO ONE ANOTHER AND THE WORLD? Priory offers theology — literally the study of God — because seeking answers to these questions is essential for our happiness.

As Catholic and Benedictine educators, we believe the answers to these questions are to be found in Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). We offer our students the time, space, and expertise needed to seek Christ with open hearts. Students of all religious traditions enjoy engaging

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with these questions in class as they grow at their own pace in the knowledge and love of God. Priory’s chaplaincy team works alongside the Theology Department to support the spiritual, moral, and sacramental formation of our students. Through Masses and prayer assemblies, the sacrament of reconciliation, our unique Tutoria program, community service, and annual retreats our students develop their faith life.

A careful analysis of Holy Scripture reveals the concept of equity and inclusion as, in fact, a God-given idea. I consider myself fortunate to be part of a community where this is integral to our mission, and we can approach the topic from a Biblical perspective.

Jon-Pierre Mitchom Director of Equity and Inclusion, Chaplaincy Team

EQUITY AND INCLUSION LISTENING WITH THE EAR OF THE HEART IS THE GUIDING PRINCIPLE FOR ALL INTERACTIONS WITHIN OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY. That kind of listening is the quintessential catalyst for doing justice as God commands — it is the foundation of everything we do with regard to equity and inclusion. The essence of this comment from the

Rule of Saint Benedict leads to the fostering of caring connections, adequate awareness, and appropriate action for the purpose of ensuring all people within our community thrive and develop their full potential.

CARING CONNECTIONS

ADEQUATE AWARENESS

APPROPRIATE ACTION

Placing a premium on fostering honor-centered, meaningful relationships

Intentionality in knowing others and their lived experiences beyond surface-level impressions

Justly arranging matters, responding to, and advocating for community need so all thrive

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academic E X C E L L E N C E 11 | College Preparatory 12 | Academic Areas

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COLLEGE PREPARATORY AS A SCHOOL GUIDED BY BENEDICTINE PRINCIPLES, PRIORY APPROACHES THE COLLEGE SELECTION PROCESS THROUGH INTROSPECTION, REFLECTION, PRAYER, AND HARD WORK. OUR COLLEGE COUNSELING PROGRAM IS TIERED TO MEET YOUR SON’S NEEDS, REFLECTING HIS STRENGTHS AND SELFAWARENESS AS HE MATURES AND PROGRESSES THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL.

7-8 | JUNIOR SCHOOL. The academic program is designed to seamlessly integrate our seventh and eighth graders’ successful move to high school, when the Office of College Counseling begins its work with students.

9 | FRESHMEN. The Office of College Counseling hosts a student and parent evening that examines how students should be thinking about the next steps after high school. Students are encouraged to focus on doing well in coursework as well as explore non-academic interests.

10 | SOPHOMORES. The college

11 | JUNIORS. The Office of College Counseling begins the individualized work that defines our college counseling program. We meet oneon-one throughout the second half of the academic year to discuss a list of colleges that match your student’s strengths, abilities, and interests.

12 | SENIORS. The college counselors work intensely with Priory’s high school

Throughout all of its endeavors, the Office of College Counseling offers the highest level of service to students and families by matching the needs and interests of each young person. Our college counselors care deeply about students and families at Priory and remain committed to helping each Priory student realize his full potential throughout the college selection process.

31 is our students’ average ACT score* $2,000,000 in college scholarships were awarded* 80% of juniors and seniors take AP classes* Students were accepted to 76% of the colleges where they applied* 40% of Priory graduates went on to attend a Tier 1 institution*

*Statistics reflect a three-year average from 2017-2020

counselors meet regularly in small group settings to assist your son in exploring possible areas of strength and professional pathways.

seniors. Drop-in and scheduled oneon-one meetings assist soon-to-be graduates with cultivating a final list of schools to which they will apply.

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ACADEMIC AREAS SAINT LOUIS PRIORY SCHOOL PROVIDES A COLLEGE PREPARATORY EDUCATION, DEVELOPING THE KEY CHARACTERISTICS THAT SELECTIVE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES ARE LOOKING FOR IN STUDENTS. THIS INCLUDES INTELLECTUAL SKILLS, SERVICE, LEADERSHIP, SPORTSMANSHIP, TEAMWORK, AND COLLABORATION. HUMANITIES

Students experience a six-year intensive program in the humanities, in which they come face-to-face with history, philosophy, poetry, and prose.

The program fosters critical thinking, engaging discussion, and a passion and predilection for all forms writing, including argumentative, analytical, reflective, and creative. The student who is truly immersed in the study of the humanities receives an academic foundation that enables him to thoughtfully and responsibly engage with current issues and navigate challenges.

MODERN AND CLASSICAL LANGUAGES

The study of foreign languages supports a well-rounded education, a sophisticated view of Western thought and history, and an appreciation for different cultures. The study of Latin forms the basis of Priory’s foreign language curriculum and contributes to the mastery of other subjects such as biology, English, and history.

SCIENCE, MATH, AND TECHNOLOGY

At Priory, we educate our young men to be critical thinkers who can

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confidently and clearly articulate technical arguments. We foster independent and creative thought by, first, providing strong foundational skills and, then, challenging students to extend their knowledge in the laboratory or through project-based learning. In addition to our core sixyear program, we offer a number of electives and extracurricular opportunities that allow students to explore and pursue their passions.

VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS

Participating in the arts develops cognitive abilities and intelligence that complement other academic disciplines. More importantly, visual and performing arts align with Benedictine tradition. As our students discover creative talents and interests, they are also practicing the 12 Hallmarks of a Benedictine Education by serving others through artistic expression. The arts also teach us to appreciate the beauty God has blessed us with in the world around us.

After all these years of working with the seventh and eighth grade boys, I’ve learned so much. I think the most important thing I have learned is to try to see things through the eyes of a 13 year old.

These boys have taught me patience and understanding, and have taught me to look at things in a different way.

Carrie Lane Human and Spiritual Formation Coordinator, Form Master Form I

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community A T

P R I O R Y

15 | Benedictine Tradition

18 | Athletics

16 | Community Life

20 | Student Activities

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BENEDICTINE TRADITION PRIORY’S BENEDICTINE TRADITION MAKES COMMUNITY LIFE CENTRAL TO A STUDENT’S EXPERIENCE ON CAMPUS. THERE ARE 12 HALLMARKS OF A BENEDICTINE SCHOOL THAT SHAPE PRIORY’S PHILOSOPHY. These 12 Hallmarks are lived out in the academic classrooms and athletic fields as well as when students participate in clubs, organizations, and service opportunities. These opportunities allow students to develop as servant leaders as they

pursue interests that extend beyond the classroom. Our students develop relationships across grade levels through the advisory system and Tutoria program, which brings students together in smaller, multi-grade level communities.

12 hallmarks LOVE OF GOD AND NEIGHBOR

PRAYER AND WORSHIP

LISTENING

DISCIPLINE

MORAL AND SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT

COMMUNITY AND STABILITY

HOSPITALITY

STEWARDSHIP

HUMILITY

OBEDIENCE

WORK

CONVERSION

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COMMUNITY LIFE FROM THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL TO GRADUATION, PRIORY’S FORM MASTERS AND ADVISORY PROGRAM GIVE STUDENTS A SUPPORT SYSTEM THAT FOSTERS SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL TRANSFORMATION.

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ADVISORY

FORM MASTERS

Every student is assigned to an advisory upon entering Priory.

An advisory is a small community of students — 15 or fewer — from all grades who meet together throughout the school week. An advisor oversees the group and remains with those students through graduation, fostering a supportive and familial dynamic. The advisor and older students mentor the younger students within the community.

Priory’s form master program takes a personal and focused approach to discipline, guidance, and formation.

Each student at Priory is assigned to a form master who, for two years, is responsible for the student’s growth.

The comprehensive formation program promotes an understanding of what it means to be a member of a Christcentered community. Through the program, Priory students learn respect, compassion, and stewardship.

Advisors provide a space for students to discuss any aspect of their Priory experience with each other, formally or informally. In addition to serious discussions about school life, advisory meetings also provide a time for fun and community building. At Priory, our goal is to form good characters, not just good transcripts.

Justin Orlando ‘99 Science Teacher, Form Master Form III

COMMUNITY SERVICE COMMUNITY SERVICE IS IMPORTANT AT PRIORY BECAUSE ST. BENEDICT CALLS ON HIS MONKS TO SERVE: YOU MUST RELIEVE THE LOT OF THE POOR, CLOTHE THE NAKED, VISIT THE SICK, AND BURY THE DEAD. GO TO HELP THE TROUBLED AND CONSOLE THE SORROWING. COMMUNITY SERVICE

Because we are called to serve others, Priory students participate in the school’s community service program. All students are invited to participate in regular service opportunities throughout the school year. Sophomores participate in a day of service and take a term-long seminar focused on community service.

Juniors and seniors must fulfill a 40-hour service requirement. Many Priory students complete more than

100 service hours each year, building strong relationships with service organizations in the St. Louis area.

SERVANT LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE

The Servant Leadership Institute, sponsored by Priory Mothers’ Club, develops servant leaders through a program of monthly guest speakers and service opportunities. Through this service-focused programming, students gain wisdom, serve others, and develop practical leadership skills.

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FA L L

CROSS COUNTRY

WINTER

BASKETBALL

FOOTBALL

Athletics at Priory is simply an extension of the classroom and is designed to inspire our student-athletes to chase personal and team excellence every day. Guided by outstanding coaches, our students come to learn that the pursuit of daily excellence is a journey worth taking, building skills and values useful in their adult lives.

SOCCER* STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING*

HOCKEY* WINTER SOCCER (intramural) WRESTLING STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING*

GOLF* LACROSSE RUGBY* TENNIS (eighth grade and high school) TRACK AND FIELD ULTIMATE FRISBEE* STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING*

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* high school

S P R I N G

BASEBALL

Harold Barker, RAA Director of Athletics, Geometry Teacher

ATHLETICS AT PRIORY STUDENTS AT PRIORY HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN SPORTS PROGRAMS DESIGNED TO HELP THEM BECOME THE BEST VERSIONS OF THEMSELVES. Participation in sports is an integral component of the overall Benedictine education and development of each student. Priory’s athletic program, which spans all six grade levels, is built on meaningful contributions from everyone on every team from role players to aspiring NCAA athletes. Since 2013, 30 Priory graduates have gone on to play collegiate athletics at eight different schools, including NCAA Division I, II, and III sports and in the Ivy League.

EXPOSES STUDENTS TO A VARIETY OF SPORTS

BUILDS SCHOOL SPIRIT GO PRIORY!

DEVELOPS LEADERSHIP, COMMITMENT, COOPERATION, AND SELF-DISCIPLINE

Priory athletics have played a prominent role in St. Louis high school sports since the school’s entering into the historic ABC League in 1968. Now known as the Metro League, members of this conference traditionally produce high-level, competitive teams and programs that often vie for district and state championships. Beyond our rich tradition in many sports, we are proud of our student-athletes as they showcase their competitiveness, drive, and good sportsmanship.

FOSTERS A BOND OF TEAMWORK AND FRIENDSHIP

HELPS STUDENTS REACH THEIR FULL PHYSICAL AND MENTAL POTENTIAL

ENCOURAGES RESPECT AND GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP

BUILDS COMMUNITY WITH STUDENTS, FACULTY, PARENTS, AND ALUMNI

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STUDENT ACTIVITIES PRIORY’S CLUBS AND STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS ARE A GREAT WAY TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS, WHILE LEARNING OR EXPANDING SKILLS AND DEVELOPING LEADERSHIP QUALITIES. While the advisories, academic classrooms, and athletic fields are places where communities naturally take shape, Priory also makes time for students to participate in clubs, organizations, and service

The Junior Classical League is one of the most fun clubs I’ve been in because I got to compete against kids around the state in a Latin and ancient history competition. It was almost like trivia.

Lance Lavery Class of 2024

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opportunities. These extracurricular activities allow our students to work with their peers as they pursue passions and interests that extend beyond the classroom.

30 DIFFERENT CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

100% OF PRIORY CLUBS ARE STUDENT-LED

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE IN A CLUB AT PRIORY? HERE ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF CLUBS IN ACTION: USO

The mission of the USO club is to give back to those who serve the United States. With more than 35 members, the USO meets monthly to plan and put together care packages and letters for military service members stationed nationally and abroad. This club also features guest speakers and builds student leadership.

ROBOTICS

The robotics team is composed of students from Priory and Visitation Academy. It serves as a positive outlet for students to explore their passions in mechanics, control systems, programming, systems design, gameplay strategy, business, fundraising, outreach, and art.

COOKING CLUB

The best tasting club on the menu! This monthly club gives students a platform to become creative and confident in the kitchen. The club plans menus, cooks, and samples food, as they learn about nutrition in a flavorful way.

3D PRINTING

PSYCHOLOGY

BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND FBLA

ROBOTICS

CAR CHESS CODING COMPETITIVE GAMING

SODALITY THE RECORD TUTORIA USO VIDEO GAME VOCAL MUSIC

COOKING

WOMEN’S STUDIES

DIVERSITY

YEARBOOK

FANTASY SPORTS

SPIRIT

ILLUSIONISTS/MAGIC

RESPECT LIFE

JUNIOR SCHOOL CYCLING

NEW TESTAMENT GREEK

LITERARY JOURNAL

SCHOLAR BOWL

MANDARIN

AFRICAN-AMERICAN STUDENT GROUP

MEDICINE AND SCIENCES

INVESTMENT

MOCK TRIAL

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outstanding PREPARATION

At each stage of my transition from Priory to college, law school, business school, and then into the unique world of sports business, I realized the productive passage was not the result of good fortune, but rather due to the tireless efforts of the monks who supplied me with an invaluable set of principles, ethics, and competencies. These, wrapped within the armor of a strong spiritual life, have enabled me to successfully navigate through life and business in a thoughtful, intelligent, and honorable manner. I am thankful for the special guidance and support of Father Timothy, Father Paul, Father Finbar, and the entire Priory community during my formative years, as well as today. The Priory experience is rare and enduring.

Anthony Hilliard, JD ‘81 Chief Executive Officer, The Sterling Group, Inc.

Anthony is a sports attorney with more than 25 years experience representing and advising professional athletes. His clients include athletes from all major sports who compete in leagues located across five continents. He also lectures on sports law and sports business topics at prominent universities, law schools, and MBA programs.

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24 PRIORY | www.priory.org A. High School Field B. Stadium C. Main Tennis Courts D. Varsity Soccer Field E. Football Practice Field F. Baseball Field G. Junior School Tennis Courts H. Junior School Field

1. Saint Louis Abbey Church 2. Admissions/Library/Theatre 3. Saint Anselm Parish Center 4. Saint Anselm Parish House 5. Monastery/Abbot’s Office 6. Monastery Guest Wing 7. Dining Hall 8. Switzer House 9. Junior School/Art Studio 10. Maintenance 11. Gymnasium/Activity Center

500 South Mason Road | St. Louis, MO 63141

PARKING

FIELDS AND COURTS

BUILDINGS