Catholic Schools Week 1/17/24 edition is published by Anton Media Group.

AN ANTON MEDIA GROUP SPECIAL

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

JANUARY 17 – 23, 2024

INSIDE

Making school affordable Benefits of a parochial education Open houses

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Discover

SAINT MARY’S

for the education of a lifetime!

OPEN HOUSE 1/28 12:00 - 2:00 PM Featuring four distinct levels including a unique dedicated building for Grades 6-8

• Cherubs (Ages 2+) • Early Childhood (N-K) • Elementary School (Grades 1-5) • Middle School (Grades 6-8)

SCAN & REGISTER FOR YOUR TOUR!

1340 Northern Boulevard, Manhasset, NY 11030

SAINTMARYSES.ORG | 516-627-0184

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CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK JANUARY 28 – FEBRUARY 3, 2024

Catholic Schools Week 2024 Open House Directory The following is a listing of Catholic elementary schools across Long Island St. Martin of Tours School Amityville www.smtschool.org

St. Joseph School Garden City www.st-josephschool.com

St. Rose of Lima School Massapequa www.stroseschool.net

St. Patrick School Bay Shore www.spsbayshore.org

Holy Family School Hicksville www.hfsli.org

Notre Dame School New Hyde Park www.ndsnet.org

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Regional School Bellmore www.steas.com

St. Patrick School Huntington www.stpathunt.org

Holy Child Academy Old Westbury www.holychildacademy.org

Our Lady Queen of Apostles School Center Moriches www.olqany.org St. Mary School East Islip www.saintmaryschoolei.org Trinity Regional School East Northport www.trinityregional.org Our Lady of Victory School Floral Park www.olvfp.org St. Anne’s School Garden City www.stannesgcschool.org

Long Beach Catholic Regional School Long Beach www.lbcrs.org Our Lady of Peace School Lynbrook www.olpschoollynbrook.org Our Lady of Lourdes School Malverne www.ollmalverne.org St. Mary’s Elementary School Manhasset www.stmary11030.org Our Lady of Grace Montessori Manhasset www.olgmanhasset.com

St. Dominic Elementary School Oyster Bay www.stdomsob.org Holy Angels Regional School Patchogue www.holyangelsregional.org St. John Paul II Regional School Riverhead www.sjp2regional.org St. Agnes Cathedral School Rockville Centre www.stagnes-school.org

St. William the Abbot School Seaford www.stwilliamtheabbot.net St. Patrick School Smithtown www.spssmith.org Our Lady of the Hamptons Regional School Southampton www.olhamptons.org St. Edward the Confessor School Syosset www.stedwardconfessor.org St. Martin De Porres Marianist School Uniondale www.stmartinmarianist.org Holy Name of Mary School Valley Stream www.hnomschool.org

Sts. Philip and James School St. James www.sspjschool.net

St. Brigid/Our Lady of Hope Regional School Westbury www.stbolh.org

Maria Regina School Seaford www.mariareginaschool.org

St. Aidan School Williston Park www.staidanschool.org

Note: Some schools will conduct private tours for families and/or small groups. These will be done by appointment. Appointments can be scheduled on each school’s website.

Visit www.licatholicelementaryschools.org to see more details about all school open houses and tour instructions.

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The Benefits Of Catholic School

By Amanda Maroney

specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

T

he decorum of a Catholic school student can be seen with bare eyes.

As I complete my last year of Catholic high school, I have discovered the many benefits that Catholic school has provided to me thus far in life. Whether it be the mannerisms that I have obtained, or the plethora of knowledge on various topics, Catholic school has built me to be the person I am today.

It was in kindergarten that I first began my journey into Catholic school at Notre Dame School [in New Hyde Park]. From first learning the “Our Father” prayer, to ending my years at Notre Dame studying scripture in the Bible, my knowledge expanded greatly before entering high school.

At Kellenberg Memorial High School, I have a better understanding of the content being taught, and now I have such a great interpretation of my faith. Having the roots of Catholicism developed at such a young age no longer makes attending mass a series of motions. I have come to understand what is occurring, and how Jesus becomes present in my life weekly.

Catholic school has not only helped me grow in my faith life, but it has also molded me into a well-rounded, responsible, and respectful woman. I have found confidence in myself, through public speaking and

Amanda Maroney leadership roles that I was given. It has taught me that the classroom is not the only place you learn. It is through the readings you do at mass, the solos you have in chorus, or the position of being class president that shape you to become wiser, not solely “book smart.”

In addition, the simple acts of respect become expectations when attending Catholic school. The sense of regard towards adults from the younger generation is quickly diminishing, due to the lack of discipline. At Catholic school, it is taught

how to be polite and homage towards all people around you, no matter the age. A simple “Mr.” or “Mrs.” before a name, or an extra second to hold the door, are small lessons that will last a lifetime for me.

These are small lessons that are now big differences in this generation.

I would not be writing this if I truly did not believe that being in Catholic school has changed my life. Catholic school does not necessarily mean that I am smarter than everyone else, or that I will be more successful than others. It does however mean that I have adapted a lifestyle that will positively impact me and this world in the future. A lifestyle of respect, mannerism, and etiquette has become something I will continue to pursue, with thanks to Catholic school.

Amanda Maroney is a senior at Kellenberg Memorial High School, and attended grammar school at Notre Dame R.C. school. She has always been a student athlete, beginning in grammar school being involved in CYO swimming, volleyball, basketball, and travel soccer. Currently, she is a member of the National Honor Society, as well as a member of the varsity volleyball team, and captain of the varsity diving team. Amanda is also a religious education teacher at St.Anne’s Parish for the past two years, teaching both third and first grade.

Outside of school, she plays travel and

(Getty Images)

beach volleyball, she is a lifeguard and a swim coach, and she babysits. She loves traveling, and has a goal of visiting as many countries as possible during her life. Although she is unsure of her career, she would like to pursue something that provides an opportunity to write, possibly in communications, law, or journalism. Her parents, Cristina and Matthew Maroney, are the two people whom she gives the utmost credit for her success and support in all of her achievements. She is very family-oriented, as she was raised living next to her best friend, her grandmother, in New Hyde Park. Her brother, John Patrick Maroney, is her role model, as he is a Division 1 swimmer at Iona University, a high-achieving student, and a volunteer firefighter.

Lastly, she could not fail to mention her mini goldendoodle, Buddy, that she loves with all of her heart.

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Creative Strategies For Affording A Catholic School Education

BY ANTON MEDIA STAFF

specialsections@antonmediagroup.com

Fundraising Initiatives

Sibling Discounts and

Tuition Assistance Programs

Utilize Employer

Get involved in the school’s fundraising Referral Programs nvesting in a Catholic school education for efforts. Many Catholic schools organize events, Some Catholic schools offer sibling disyour children can be a rewarding decision, such as galas, auctions, and community counts for families with multiple children but it often comes with financial consider- outreach programs, to raise funds. Parents can attending the same institution. Additionally, ations. While the costs associated with private contribute by volunteering their time, skills, or inquire about referral programs that may resources to these initiatives. Additionally, they provide incentives for current families who education may seem daunting, there are creative strategies and resources that parents can explore creative fundraising ideas within refer new students. These programs can be a can explore to make this valuable investment their own networks, such as hosting themed win-win, benefiting both the school and the events or online crowdfunding campaigns. more manageable. referring families.

I

Scholarships and Financial Aid

or deductions that may apply to private school tuition. In some regions, families may be eligible for tax benefits based on education-related expenses. Consult with a tax professional to understand the specific options available in your area.

Some Catholic dioceses or archdioceses Online Learning Resources Benefits administer tuition assistance programs to Many Catholic schools offer scholarships Check with your employer to see if they offer Consider supplementing your child’s and financial aid programs to assist families in support families seeking a Catholic education. any educational assistance programs. Some education with online courses or resources.

These programs may be funded by local need. Investigate the available options at the companies provide tuition reimbursement or While this may not replace the entire Catholic schools you are considering. These programs parishes, charitable foundations, or communi- assistance for employees’ children attending school experience, it can help reduce costs ty organizations. Inquire about the availability private schools. Understanding and taking ad- associated with certain subjects or extracuroften take into account both academic of such programs and the eligibility criteria for vantage of these employer-sponsored benefits ricular activities. achievements and financial circumstances. assistance.

Don’t hesitate to inquire about application Affording a Catholic school education for can significantly ease the financial burden. processes and deadlines. your children requires creativity, resourceEducational Savings Accounts Flexible Payment Plans fulness, and strategic planning. By exploring (ESAs) Work-Study Programs Many Catholic schools offer flexible payscholarships, financial aid, work-study Investigate the possibility of setting up Some Catholic schools provide work-study ment plans that allow families to spread out programs, fundraising initiatives, and other Educational Savings Accounts, which allow opportunities for students or parents. This tuition payments over the course of the school available resources, parents can make this parents to save money for qualified education year. This can make budgeting more mancould involve volunteering at the school, significant investment in their children’s edassisting with administrative tasks, or contrib- expenses, including private school tuition. ageable and alleviate the immediate financial ucation more feasible. The commitment to uting to maintenance and landscaping efforts. Contributions to these accounts may have tax strain associated with a lump-sum payment. providing a values-based education can be advantages, providing a financial incentive These programs not only help offset tuition realized through a combination of financial Educational Tax Credits for families to plan ahead for their children’s costs but also foster a sense of community strategies and community engagement.

Explore available educational tax credits education. involvement.

Holy Child Academy Open House Sunday, January 28 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Monday, January 29 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

An Independent Catholic School holychildacademy.org admissions@hcali.org

Toddler through 8th Grade 25 Store Hill Road Old Westbury, NY 11568

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LONG LIVE LONG ISL AND

™

When we see Long Island, before all else, we see you—every unique, astounding one of you.

(866) MY-LI-DOC | chsli.org 244759 M

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Vincent Albrecht Named Principal

he Diocese of Rockville Centre Department of Education (www. drvcschools.org) has announced that Vincent Albrecht has been named principal of Saint John the Baptist Diocesan High School in West Islip (stjohnthebaptistdhs. net).

“Along with the entire Saint John the Baptist High School family, the Diocese of Rockville Centre expresses its sincere gratitude to Biagio Arpino for his years of dedicated service as principal and for his many years of service to the administrative team within the Department of Education,” said the Most Reverend John O. Barres, Bishop, Diocese of Rockville Centre.

“The Diocese joins the students, families, faculty and staff of Saint John the Baptist in welcoming and prayerfully supporting Mr. Albrecht. His leadership as principal of Saint Edward’s has been marked by innovation and a deep commitment to the well-being of his students and their families. He is a true role model for educators and a beloved figure in the Saint Edward’s community. We look forward to Mr. Albrecht bringing his love for Jesus Christ, an evangelizing missionary Catholic spirit and his extensive professional experience to Saint John the Baptist to help build upon its tradition of excellence.”

Albrecht currently serves as principal

Vincent Albrecht (DRVC) of Saint Edward the Confessor Catholic School, Syosset. Albrecht will complete the 2023-2024 academic year at Saint Edward’s and begin his new role with Saint John the Baptist Diocesan High School in August, following the retirement of Biagio M. Arpino, current principal.

“I am very excited about guiding Saint John’s into the next chapter of its storied

history,” said Albrecht. “I firmly believe in the transformative power of a Catholic education, one that nurtures not only academic excellence but also faith, service, and a strong moral compass. I am excited to work with the talented faculty and staff, the dedicated parents, and most importantly, the wonderful students of this community to build upon that rich legacy of excellence.”

Under Albrecht’s leadership, Saint Edward the Confessor Catholic School has achieved remarkable success, being named Best Catholic School on Long Island four times (2018, 2021, 2022, 2023) and the best private school in Syosset in 2022. His dedication to innovation in technology education earned him the prestigious 2023 NASTECH NASTAR Award. He also serves as the Confirmation director for the Parish of Saint Edward the Confessor, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his faith and the community.

Albrecht, a man deeply devoted to his faith, family, and the education of young minds, has served for 12 years as the principal of Saint Edward the Confessor Catholic School. His unwavering commitment to excellence has earned him recognition as Bethpage Federal Credit Union’s Best Principal on Long Island in 2017, 2018, and 2023.

Before joining the Saint Edward’s family, Albrecht served as an assistant principal in the East Meadow School District during the 2011-2012 school year. His passion for education led him to serve as principal of Holy Family School in Hicksville from September 2007 until July 2011. Before that, he served as assistant principal of Holy Angels Regional Catholic School, Patchogue.

Albrecht’s dedication to education extends beyond his administrative roles.

He has a rich teaching background, having taught 9th and 10th-grade theology and Global Studies at Holy Cross High School, Flushing; Middle School Religion and Social Studies at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Academy, South Ozone Park, and fifth grade at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Academy, Astoria.

Albrecht’s commitment to faith and community is evident in his ten years as Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry at the Church of Saint Aidan, Williston Park, and his three years in the same role at the Parish of Saint Francis of Assisi, Astoria.

Albrecht possesses an M.S. in School Administration and Supervision from Capella University, Minneapolis, and a B.A. in History from Queens College, CUNY. —The Diocese of Rockville Centre

Chaminade High School Announces New Varsity Football Head Coach Chaminade High School recently announced the appointment of Thomas Claro (Class of 1992) as head coach of its varsity football team.

Claro has spent the last several seasons as offensive line coach at Archbishop Stepinac High School in White Plains.

Prior to his tenure at Stepinac, he coached at Fordham University as the tight ends coach and assistant offensive line coach.

Claro brings a wealth of high school and college coaching experience. He served as the offensive coordinator/ offensive line coach at Xavier High School in Manhattan from 2001-2003 and as the offensive line coach at Chaminade from 1997-2001.

A 1996 graduate of the College of the Holy Cross, Claro was named a First Team Associated Press I-AA AllAmerican as a senior in 1995. He also was a First Team AllNew England selection as a senior and was a three-time First Team All-Patriot League lineman (1993, 1994, and 1995). Following graduation, Claro was a member of three NFL teams (Jacksonville Jaguars, New England Patriots, and Arizona Cardinals) and played for the Barcelona Dragons of NFL Europe. A 2003 Brooklyn Law School graduate, Claro practices law in New York.

“We are excited to start the next chapter of Chaminade football,” said Athletic Director John Honerkamp (Class of 1993). “I am looking forward to working with Coach Claro and the rest of the team. Go Flyers!”

—Chaminade High School

Thomas Claro (Chaminade)

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK • JANUARY 17 - 23, 2024 9B

SAINT ANNE’S SCHOOL Sacraments

Service

Saints

Spirit

Scholarship

Welcome home to the tradition and nostalgia of your Catholic Values Education!

We invite you to visit our school so that we can feature our outstanding academic programs, religious education and service opportunities.

Catholic Schools Week Mass and Open House Sunday, January 28th, 10 am Mass Open House and Refreshments, 11 am to 12:30 pm

Join Us… All are Welcome, bring a friend!

NURSERY – 8th GRADE

Catholic education is truly an investment in the future!

St. Anne’s is a comparable, local choice for a fraction of your Middle School tuition dollars!

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Call 516-352-1205 • Visit our website https://stannesgcschool.org/ Questions regarding September enrollment 2024, please email: Ann-Marie Zino, Assistant Principal - annzino@stannesgcschool.org

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Report: Morning Star Initiative Improves LI Schools

ignificant progress has been made in the renewal and transformation of Catholic elementary school education on Long Island. This is the finding from a new impact report by the Diocese of Rockville Centre’s Morning Star Initiative (MSI). The impact report cites progress made against the Morning Star Initiative’s four success pillars: academic excellence, robustly Catholic culture, safe and supportive communities and fiscally sustainable schools.

“Since the Morning Star Initiative was launched in early 2020, we have strengthened the academic rigor of our schools and stabilized enrollment despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the economy,” said Brother Thomas Cleary, S.M., chief revitalization officer, Morning Star Initiative.

With more than $3.5 million in funds raised by the Tomorrow’s Hope Foundation for the Morning Star Initiative and then invested in Catholic education, the Catholic elementary schools in the Diocese of Rockville Centre have achieved significant academic improvements, safe in-person instruction, strong remote learning, strong marketing and recruitment efforts, innovative new academic programs and stabilization of nursery-8th grade enrollment.

In the area of strengthening the pillar that Catholic schools are here to stay, the Diocese of Rockville Centre Department of Education, along with the Morning Star Initiative constantly works to increase enrollment.

In the area of academic excellence, philanthropic support of the Morning Star Initiative has enabled the Diocese of Rockville Centre to enhance the academic rigor in its elementary schools by investing in technology, teachers and academic programs.

The Curriculum Associates i-Ready assessment system implemented in each school is a new state-of-the-art tool enabling educators to better understand how individual students are progressing throughout the school year. i-Ready offers teachers criterion-referenced and normative data to deliver impactful, equitable learning experiences in real time. More than 8,000 students have received personalized i-Ready math and reading instruction.

When receiving 30 minutes or more of personalized instruction per week, the median

student was eight percent above year-end expectations “typical growth” in math and 28 percent above year-end expectation in reading.

In the area of building a robustly Catholic culture, the Diocese has sharpened and enhanced its spiritual, intellectual, sacramental and liturgical capabilities.

In the area of providing safe and supportive communities. The Diocese was able to respond to unprecedented challenges by (Getty Images) providing a safe and supportive community that recognizes the dignity of every person Island. Visit www.morningstarinitiative. com for more information. and promotes human flourishing.

About Tomorrow’s Hope Foundation About the Morning Star Initiative The mission of Tomorrow’s Hope Approaching its third year of existence Foundation is to ensure the excellence as (January 2023), the Diocese of Rockville well as the continuance of Catholic schools Centre’s Morning Star Initiative is a bold plan of Catholic evangelization (living and on Long Island by increasing awareness sharing the Gospel) for the revitalization of and by providing scholarship and program funding for the needs of students and Catholic elementary education. In partschools. Visit www.tomorrowhopefoundanership with the Marianists and with the tion.org to donate. support of Tomorrow’s Hope Foundation, Visit www.drvc.org/wp-content/uploads/ the Morning Star Initiative aims to position Catholic education for a bright future, with MSI-impact-report.pdf to read the full impact report. a community of strong, expanding and —The Catholic Diocese of Rockville Centre sustainable schools spread across Long

Why Do Parents Choose Catholic School For Their Children?

While everyone has their own reasons, a number of significant themes are identified when you speak to parents about why they selected a Catholic elementary school for their children:

1

Catholic elementary school offers an education that combines Catholic faith and teachings with academic excellence.

2 3

We provide a safe and welcoming environment for all.

We partner with parents in the education and faith formation of their children.

4 5

We teach children respect of self and of others.

We instill in students the value of service to others.

6 7 8 9 10

We effectively use technology to enhance education.

We emphasize moral development and self-discipline.

We prepare students to be productive citizens and future leaders.

We provide a balanced curriculum that integrates faith, culture and life.

We cultivate a faculty and staff of people who are dedicated, caring and effective.

11

We set high standards for student achievement, which helps each student succeed.

12

Virtually all of our students graduate to attend a prestigious Catholic high school and 99 percent go on to college.

—Diocese of Rockville Centre

St. Mary’s Teens Enjoy Manhattan Experience Fifteen students from St. Mary’s High School in the Manhattan Experience Club, their moderator Mrs. Lipani, and faculty member Mrs. Curran recently visited New York City to delight in the Christmas season. Their first stop was Bryant Park, where they enjoyed hot chocolate and snacks while browsing the many retail kiosks. Afterward, they visited Rockefeller Center to see the famous Christmas tree and the stunning Saks Fifth Avenue storefront windows. Lastly, they visited St. Patrick’s Cathedral, where they toured the church and lit candles in prayer. Everyone returned tired but in high spirits for Christmas. The Manhattan Experience Club is a new after-school program that meets to learn about iconic places, both new and old. They research and plan trips to visit landmarks and points of interest in New York City. They plan to embark on four trips this year and are off to a great start.

—St. Mary’s High School, Manhasset

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Our Students are Thriving!

School Tours & Open Houses Happening During Catholic Schools Week in January 2024!

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JANUARY 17 - 23, 2024 • CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

St. William the Abbot

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

Catholic School Seaford, NY

est. 1954

We are St. William's!

Mass Attendance and Daily Prayer

Living Environment and Algebra Regents

National Junior Honor Society and Student Council

Middle School Sports including Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball, Cross Country, Bowling, Cheer, Flag Football, Softball, and Baseball

Extended Care Program to assist Working Parents (Grades N-8) Spanish Instruction Grades K-8 Middle School Latin Instruction Choir, Art, and Music

Art with STREAM Instruction in our state-of-the-art Makerspace Band Grades 1-8 Drama Club

After School Enrichment Clubs Grades K-8 Field Trips in support of Curriculum

Parent Involvement - Home School Association, School Board, Father’s Club

"Sending our daughter to St. William's is a decision my husband and I can feel good about every day. We know that from the moment we drop her off to the moment she comes back home, she is loved, safe, supported, and challenged. We have been welcomed with open arms into a community that shares our values. We know that sending our daughter to SWS will set her up for success – academically, socially, and spiritually- for the rest of her life. It’s the best gift we can give her." ~ The DeBardelaben Family

stwilliamtheabbot.net

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