From the President Dear Friends, Autumn is a beautiful time of year. The tree colors in New England remind me of the wonderful transformation that takes place in nature each year. It is much like the transformation of a Sacred Heart Academy student, into an Excelsior Woman. What a gift and a privilege it is for me to be a part of that process. And like the impressive leaves of fall, Excelsior Women come in all shapes, colors, and sizes and bring their multi-faceted gifts and talents to our school community. How blessed we are. The 2011-2012 school year was a very special one as we celebrated our 65th anniversary, beginning with our “65 years of SHA” student body photograph and ending with the completion of the “65 hours of service” project. We have been given so many gifts, and will continue to share our gifts with those in need. Sacred Heart Academy is steeped in tradition, and we annually celebrate those events that are at the core of our mission: First Friday liturgies, including the Enthronement of the Sacred Heart, our hallmark event; May Crowning; and the Junior Ring and Baccalaureate liturgies. These celebrations were especially lovely this year, and give me great hope that our young women will one day become our future Catholic leaders. Academics were enhanced by the upgrades of our classroom technology and the introduction of “flipped” classrooms. In this model of instruction, students watch recorded lectures for homework and complete assignments, labs, and tests in class. Teachers also enhanced classroom preparation through the use of “Backwards Design,” a method in which goals are set before instructional materials are chosen. Both models of instruction help students to think more critically and to problem solve more effectively, much needed skills for the 21st century. In addition to the strength of our academics, Sacred Heart Academy continues to produce exceptional musicals. This year’s huge success, White Christmas, like last year’s The Wiz, was performed at the Shubert Theater. The acting, singing, and dancing were incredible! The set design dazzled! Students loved not only performing at this historic theater, but also working behind the scenes as part of the crew. What a wonderful way to embrace the spirit of Christmas! We are very proud of our sports program as our students are very dedicated and passionate about our teams. I just adore the fall when most teams play home games. The campus just comes alive! Sacred Heart Academy is a true community, supported by generous alumnae, parents, and friends. On behalf of more than 6,500 young women who have passed through our doors, I want to thank you for your support. This year we were able to award in excess of $400,000 in tuition assistance. We could not have done that without generous friends like you. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus bless you abundantly and keep you close to His heart. Gratefully in His Heart,
Sr. Sheila O’Neill, ASCJ, Ph.D., ’71 President
Sacred Heart Academy
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