Happy New Year! I am delighted to share the latest edition of Coeur à Coeur. Inside you will read about what is happening with our students and faculty. There are some traditions which you will recall from your days here as a student or from the time that your daughter attended Woodlands. I hope too that you will be excited to learn of the new opportunities offered both on campus and further afield.
This year, Woodlands added Congressional Debate as a co-curricular activity. Students are taking a debate class, and we have fielded both Varsity and Junior Varsity debate teams. In our inaugural year, the students have been recognized with “best speaker” awards and are winning debates. I am thrilled to see the early success of this program as it aligns with the winning ways of our MathCats team and Scholastic Bowl team. These opportunities for academic competition help students to recognize their capabilities and increase their confidence in these areas of academic excellence.
As the calendar turns to a new year, I am more than ever focused on the future. This is the time of year when the faculty bring forward ideas for new courses. One of the areas undergoing a curriculum review is our Visual and Performing Arts offerings. Interestingly, our data gathered from students engaging in an Admission Visit Day points to increasing interest in the school’s STEAM offerings. Why add the Arts to STEM? Simply put, proficiency in the arts is essential for budding engineers and computer scientists. For evidence, one need only consider AI and the manner in which data and images are being brought together to generate content. At Woodlands we are focused on preparing students for their future; our students recognize the role creativity will play in their future endeavors in math and science. I am thrilled with the research opportunities in which current students are engaged and am so proud that we are offering college-credit bearing classes in chemistry.
With prayers for health and happiness in the New Year,
Susan Tyree Dempf, Ph.D. HEAD OF SCHOOL
Woodlands holds FIRST SERVICE DAY OF 2024-25
Goal III of all Sacred Heart schools seeks to educate to a social awareness that impels action. With this in mind, Woodlands Academy held the first of its two 2024-25 Service Days on September 17. Freshmen and juniors lent a helping hand to some area service organizations while sophomores and seniors participated in retreat activities.
The day began at Woodlands Academy with a discussion of why the school emphasizes service to its surrounding community, during which some juniors shared their past service experiences with the freshmen.
Equipped with this insight, the freshmen spent the rest of the morning helping sort books at Bernie’s Book Bank in Lake Bluff. During the afternoon, they helped organize supplies for homeless youth at Fill a Heart 4 Kids in Lake Forest. They brought with them some boxes of cereal and McDonald’s gift cards previously donated by members of the Woodlands community for the homeless, at-risk and foster children Fill a Heart 4 Kids serves.
Juniors began their day of community service preparing boxes to help with upcoming holiday sales at Lamb’s Farm in Libertyville, an organization well known for helping people with developmental disabilities lead productive, happy lives. During the afternoon, juniors worked at Lake Forest Open Lands, maintaining trails and picking invasive species at the Jean and John Greene Nature Preserve.
“I’m so very proud of our freshmen and juniors who did truly awesome work during our first Service Day,” said Erin Brysiewicz, Woodlands Academy’s service coordinator. “We do this with the hope that the girls gain a greater understanding of themselves and see the difference they can make in the lives of others.”
Woodlands’ second Service Day of the 2024-25 school year is in February. Sophomores and seniors will volunteer at area service organizations while freshmen and juniors participate in retreats.
Woodlands’ service program requires freshman to perform 10 hours of service during their first year at Woodlands. Sophomores, juniors and seniors must do 20 hours of service per year. In addition, students annually complete a written reflection for each of their service opportunities. Many Woodlands Academy students become passionate about service and far exceed the required minimum of 70 hours.
Woodlands Recognized As AP Honor Roll School FUN, TRADITIONS MARK START OF 2024-25 SCHOOL YEAR
Woodlands Academy has earned a place on the College Board’s AP School Platinum Honor Roll for the 2023-24 school year. This honor recognizes schools that have done outstanding work to welcome more students into AP (Advanced Placement) courses and support them on the path to college success. Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that include a commitment to increasing college-going culture and providing opportunities for students to earn college credit.
All Woodlands Academy Class of 2024 members took at least one AP Exam during their four years here. In addition, 70% of AP exams taken during 2023-24 had scores of three or higher. Research indicates that students who score a three or higher on an AP Exam typically experience greater academic success in college and are more likely to earn a college degree than non-AP students. Most of Woodlands’ Class of 2024 graduated with having taken five or more AP exams during high school.
“I am truly honored by the College Board’s recognition of this important part of Woodlands Academy’s college-preparatory mission,” said Associate Head of School for Academics Rocco Gargiulo. “We actively encourage our students to take AP courses and require exams to show college admissions officers that they have sought the most challenging curriculum available to them in high school. More than half of our faculty teach an AP class, and 75% of our students typically are enrolled in at least one AP class. Woodlands Academy will administer 25 different subject area exams this (2024-25) school year.”
Students, faculty and staff reporting for the first day of classes on August 20 were greeted by various spirited signage and decorations inside and outside the building. They were all designed and created by the Class of 2025 as part of the traditional “Seniors Rule” celebration.
Another tradition is also observed just before classes begin. The Woodlands Academy community gathered for the annual commissioning of faculty and staff. Adult community members were recognized individually for their vital, unique role in creating the Sacred Heart community at Woodlands.
And yet another tradition took place on August 16. The New Student Prayer Service marks the end of orientation for first-year students. This annual ceremony welcomes incoming freshmen, transfer students and their families into Sacred Heart education.
The New Student Prayer Service features a candle-lighting ceremony at its conclusion. All the new students exit the chapel carrying their lit candles. “The light you hold as you walk past the adults gathered will be a beautiful demonstration of how today marks the beginning of your Sacred Heart journey at Woodlands,” Head of School Susan Tyree Dempf, Ph.D., told them. “Rest assured that your orientation leaders, along with the entire Woodlands community, are individuals you can turn to for guidance and light.”
Before the prayer service, first-year students and their families toured their new classrooms and participated in some group ice-breaker activities.
Flag Ceremony celebrates Woodlands’ rich cultural diversity
Woodlands Academy’s multicultural makeup was celebrated during its annual Flag Ceremony and Mass of the Holy Spirit on September 13, 2024.
“The Society of the Sacred Heart has been an international community since its early years,” said Associate Head of School for Academics Rocco Gargiulo. “At Woodlands Academy, there are many ways for each of us to expand our global hearts. Today, our Flag Ceremony recognizes, honors, and celebrates the breadth and diversity on our campus.”
The flags of the U.S. and 20 other nations – Australia, Austria, Belize, Canada, China, Czech Republic, France, Guatemala, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Korea, Lithuania, Mexico, the Philippines, Scotland, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, and Vietnam – were carried into the Chapel of the Sacred Heart during the Procession of the Nations. These flags represent nations where a Woodlands student or adult community member was born or holds dual citizenship. All 21 flags will remain on display during the school year to visualize the breadth of Woodlands Academy’s cultural diversity.
Another ceremony highlight featured eight members of the Woodlands community offering a prayer in their native language.
Woodlands Academy offers students a variety of ways to experience cultural diversity first-hand, including the many exchange opportunities its worldwide network of sister schools provides and its Global Odyssey and Global Scholar programs.
The Global Odyssey program provides every Woodlands student with an international experience, either immersive or through a special class. Through Global Odyssey, students are given a unique opportunity to relate to and experience the world, fostering in them the ability to understand and act on issues of global significance.
The Global Scholars Program equips students with the necessary skills and experience to be leaders in the competitive and challenging 21st century. Students with demonstrated interest in global issues and affairs can apply to be a Global Scholar during their junior year. They commit to rigorous coursework and language study, as well as participation in service to a global community, and extracurricular activities. The diplomas and transcripts of those successfully completing this program include a “Global Scholar” designation.
Woodlands gets (another) A+ for educating girls
For the sixth year in a row, Woodlands Academy has received the top grade for its faith-based education of young women. In the 2025 rankings by Niche.com, an independent research company, Woodlands repeated as the #1 Best All-Girls High School in Illinois for the eighth consecutive year. It is also positioned as the best all-girls Catholic high school in the state – along with an overall grade of A+ received in this year’s report.
Statistical data used in the 2025 Niche rankings was obtained from a wide array of sources, including reviews from students, alumnae, and parents, along with U.S. Department of Education data to evaluate teachers, resources, and facilities.
“We are so pleased to be recognized again this year as the best all-girls high school in Illinois,” said Head of School Susan Tyree Dempf, Ph.D. “Woodlands provides young women with an excellent education which prepares them for university study and beyond. Woodlands Academy students are educated in an environment focused on how girls learn. This, in combination with leadership opportunities, athletics, and access to exceptional faculty, helps our students reach their fullest potential.”
Dempf believes the benefits of an all-girls school do not come simply from separating girls from boys but from the ability of a girls’ school to focus entirely on girls’ education, development, and well-being.
Woodlands Academy students Honored as National Merit scholars
For the third year in a row, a Woodlands Academy senior has qualified to continue her pursuit of a highly prestigious scholarship award. Claire Smylie ’25 is among the less than 1% of U.S. high school seniors achieving Semifinalist status in the 70th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. This group of academically talented students will continue in the competition for some 6,870 National Merit® Scholarships worth nearly $26 million to be awarded next spring. In addition, recipients of these scholarships earn the coveted title of Merit Scholar®.
“I am so very proud of Claire for achieving this outstanding national recognition of the academic excellence she has achieved during her years here at Woodlands Academy,” said Associate Head of School for Academics Rocco Gargiulo. “I join the entire Woodlands community in wishing Claire continued success during the rest of her National Merit Scholarship quest.”
The next step in the process is advancing to the Finalist level. Achieving that distinction is based on a Semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received.
In addition to our semifinalist, two more Woodlands students distinguished themselves in the current National Merit Scholarship competition. Seniors Avery Drehkoff and Yue Pan are among the approximately 34,000 high school seniors nationwide being recognized for exceptional academic promise.
Drehkoff and Pan each received a Letter of Commendation from Woodlands and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), which conducts the program. While included among the top scorers, commended students do not continue in the National Merit Scholarship awards competition, although they may be eligible for special scholarships sponsored by corporations and businesses.
Photo: Annica Ahlstrom
Faculty Reflection: My Two Summers of Transformative Professional Development
By Beverly Adamczyk Woodlands Academy Latin Teacher
Every teacher develops their own way of using the summer to recharge for the next school year. I would like to share with you how my previous two summers have been transformative for me and how I hope they influence day-today life throughout the school year.
Over the past two summers, I have attended Roots the Give Us Wings (2023), the American Classical League (ACL) Convention (2023, 2024) and The North American Institute of Living Latin Studies’ Rusticatio (2023, 2024). Roots provided spiritual grounding and a strong connection to the Sacred Heart Network. The ACL Convention provides practical and inspirational teaching ideas for the Latin classroom from other professionals in the field. Rusticatio is a weeklong, immersive Latin program in which 25 to 35 adults live and study together in an immersive “Latin bubble” at the historic Claymont Mansion in West Virginia, using Latin exclusively to communicate.
I have received professional sustenance from all these activities. My heart has grown from the inspiration of Madeleine Sophie Barat. My assessment approach is much improved, and I am up to date on the upcoming overhaul to AP Latin because of ACL input. But I have been absolutely transformed by the experiences I havce had at Rusticatio –and I am excited about and committed to bringing more spoken Latin, conversational Latin, and living Latin to the classroom. Rusticatio has introduced me, firsthand, to the very real potential to use spoken Latin day-to-day. (I have known in theory for years now about using Comprehensible Input -CI in the Latin classroom, but I was schooled in a very grammar-based approach to Latin.) Now, not only can we read the works of authors of the past 2,000+ years, but we can also use the same language as a means of selfexpression and joy today.
This year, I am sharing with my students the fun I experienced using Latin at Rusticatio. We played games completely in Latin (such as quis sum? Who Am I?). In small groups, we took turns preparing breakfast, lunch, and dinner for the entire group in Latin, learning vocabulary for tools, ingredients, and directions. We created and performed skits for each other in Latin. We spoke in Latin in our free time, in our rooms, and at all of our meals. (We had a designated place outside, away from others’ ear shot, if it was necessary to make a phone call or do something in English.)
We also spent a good portion of time each day exploring Latin readings. I recognized the ancient authors Seneca and Apuleius, and was delighted to be introduced to Olaus Magnus, a 16th century writer who has left us an account of werewolves in Lithuania. Who knew?
I also share with my students the kindness I experienced while communicating in Latin. The leaders and fellow classmates listened patiently to one another. It was as though no one ever said anything “wrong,” but maybe an idea was not yet understood. As one Latin blogger I follow says, imagine what it would be like if Mr. Hooper corrected Cookie Monster every time he said, “Me want cookie.” At Rusticatio, everyone accepted the speaking level of each participant. We had completely fluent participants, and some who’s only speaking consisted of reading Latin aloud and reciting famous Latin quotes. Yet, I got to know everyone and developed meaningful connections – all speaking only Latin!
Rome was not built in a day. My speaking skills are still at a high novice or low intermediate level. But I intend to share more spoken Latin with my students and have fun while doing it. We, as Sacred Heart educators, teach to the whole person, and part of using any language wholly is speaking it.
Vienna Diary
This fall, a group of Woodlands students spent 10 days on a Group Exchange to Sacré Coeur Wien, our sister school in Vienna, Austria. While there, they kept journals of their daily experiences on this once-in-a-lifetime educational experience. We asked each of the girls to share an entry or two from her journal.
Friday.
September 27, 2024 – Amelie
Walking tour of Vienna City Center
We landed just outside Vienna at 7 a.m. and took a train (way nicer than the L, according to Kate) to Rennweg, a train station right outside the school. Right after, we were taken on a walking tour around the city center, deliberately done in an effort to help us overcome jet lag. The weather was incredibly cool, but it had none of our freezing Chicago winds (thank goodness!). The city was absolutely breathtaking, and all the buildings and statues felt so incredibly historical. A lot of the monuments we came across were tributes to World War II in honor of the victims.
Monday, September 30, 2024
Study hall, classes, meeting RSCJ sisters
Sunday, September 29, 2024 – Ona
Day trip to Melk
Sunday morning, we met at school and took a bus to Melk. When we arrived, we took a tour of the monastery and saw their church. We attended a prayer service and had time to walk around the grounds after the service. We were also able to get a delicious lunch at the restaurant on the monastery’s grounds. Then we took the bus to Durnstein, where we were able to walk around, do some gift shopping, and get some delicious ice cream! (Literally some of the best ice cream I’ve ever had, and it was all made in Durnstein.)
On Monday, we met at school and had our first few classes at Gymnasium Sacré Coeur Wien. Our day hosts helped us get settled into our classes. Thankfully, we also had study hall in our schedule so that we could work on class work, prepare for our school presentations, and check in with our teachers and classmates to discuss the upcoming week. Later in the day, we met with the RSCJ sisters. We enjoyed asking them questions about their vocation, and we were able to share personal stories with each other. These women are very inspiring. We are so thankful we were able to meet them on this Vienna Exchange trip!
Tuesday, October 1, 2024 – Lucy
Prayer service and uniform shopping
Starting off the day with a prayer service with not only the Woodlands students but the Sacré Coeur choir and students was so moving. A few girls from our school talked about dreams they had for their own future and for the whole world. In addition, we went to the school’s uniform store down the street to grab some merch of our own! Now we all match with our Sacré Coeur sweaters.
Wednesday, October 2, 2024 – Catalina
Schönbrunn Palace
At Schönbrunn Palace, we walked around listening to audio guides and learned the history of the Habsburg summer home. We then took a picture together on the stairway, and some of us walked up a hill to Maria Theresa’s Gloriette, where the queen looked over her garden. In the main part of the palace, we saw paintings on ceilings, delicate furniture, and the places where the royal family lived and died. It was a beautiful palace—and seeing it was an amazing experience.
Thursday, October 3, 2024 (day) – Kate
Haus der Musik
Haus der Musik was such an amazing experience. From the piano-key stairs to a conducting simulation, it was so much fun to experience. The museum was filled not only with information on composers, but also information about the physics of sound. Being with my friends made the experience so much more enjoyable and I will never forget the time I spent with them in Vienna!
Thursday, October 3, 2024 (evening) – Lydia
“Carmen” at Volksoper
In the evening, we had tickets to see “Carmen.” The opera at Volksoper was such a fun experience. Not only was this the first opera I have been to, but it was also in German. Luckily, I still managed to enjoy it and understand the story. The singing, stage props, and costumes were super cool, it made it an even more unique and fun experience.
Friday, October 4, 2024
Belvedere and waltzing
Saturday, October 5, 2024 – Ona
Day of exploration with host family
On Saturday morning, Ivan (from my night host family) and I went shopping with Lucy, along with two of our day hosts, Lorenz and Paula. We went to the mall, and we got lunch together. For lunch, we got donar, which is by far the best thing I have had in Vienna. After that, we went home and hung out for a bit. We met up with Lucy and Lorenz later that night by St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and we went on a carriage ride around part of the district. Then, we walked to a place where we played a few rounds of pool.
Today, we were able to tour Belvedere Palace. This was a beautiful attraction that had two different palaces. Our visit to the museum had beautiful paintings—the most famous is “The Kiss.” Some of us also walked uphill to visit the upper Belvedere Palace. In the evening, we were able to take waltzing lessons with private instructors. We were joined by some of the Vienna students and enjoyed an evening of dancing!
Departure!
Sunday, October 6, 2024 – Morgan
Favorite memories and final reflection!
The last 10 days have been so fun, and I am sad to be going home. While I am excited to go home and sleep in my bed, I want to stay longer. Europe is so fun and different and I am glad I got a chance to come. There were so many memories made— it’s really hard to pick a favorite. But if I had to choose, my favorite memories would be the Long Night of Museums where the museums are open until midnight, and going to Melk. All the days were fun and jammed packed. The shopping, food, and sights were amazing. I am going to miss my host family so much. I hope to come back and see them again.
Looking Inward: Woodlands’ 2024 SHCOG Self-Study
The Sacred Heart Commission on Goals (SHCOG) requires all Sacred Heart schools, including Woodlands Academy, to undergo a self-study every five years to reflect on how they embody the Goals and Criteria of Sacred Heart Education. This process involves gathering input from students, faculty, staff, parents, alumnae, and board members to assess strengths and areas for improvement.
In 2023, Woodlands Academy began its self-study, led by Associate Head of School for Academics Rocco Gargiulo. Discussions among the adult community explored how Woodlands embodies the Goals and Criteria. Head of School Dr. Susan Dempf facilitated meetings with parents, trustees, and alumnae to evaluate current practices and future focuses. Students participated in similar reflections in 2024.
By August 2024, the Steering Committee ensured that the year-long discussions were accurately captured during Staff Institute Week and gathered overarching commendations and recommendations. A draft of the Self-Study was shared with the community in September 2024, and the final draft was completed later that month. The process highlighted significant changes at Woodlands over the past 18-24 months, reinforcing our ongoing commitment to the Goals and Criteria.
What follows is a high-level summary of Woodlands Academy’s SHCOG findings. The entire SHCOG document can be found online at bit.ly/SHCOG24.
Goal I: Schools of the Sacred Heart commit themselves to educate to a personal and active faith in God.
Woodlands Academy emphasizes the faith journeys of its community members through personal and communal prayer, reflection, and scripture. The school fosters inclusive liturgies and prayer services, with Father Jason actively engaging students and promoting their faith life. A culture of love and compassion is evident, supported by mentoring programs and a sense of belonging within advisory groups. Community members note the Christ-centered mission, which emphasizes holistic education and the importance of each individual’s unique gifts.
Daily practices, such as espacio for quiet reflection, along with guided meditation and prayer opportunities, help students deepen their relationships with God. Woodlands celebrates diversity and encourages respect for different faith traditions while addressing the need for balance amidst a busy schedule. Community members express a desire for more spiritual retreats and access to the wisdom of RSCJ members.
There is a recognized need for more ecumenical dialogue and interfaith collaboration, suggesting opportunities to hear from leaders of various faiths. Overall, the community values authentic spiritual engagement, uplifting programs, and a supportive environment while challenging itself to model spiritual reflection and inclusivity.
Goal II: Schools of the Sacred Heart educate to a deep respect for intellectual values.
Woodlands Academy emphasizes academic excellence, supported by strong student performance in test scores and college acceptances. The school fosters a global mindset through various programs, including international exchanges and Global Odyssey Week. Recent curriculum enhancements reflect student interests, with new courses like AP Pre-Calculus and partnerships for dual credit opportunities. Woodlands’ small class sizes allow for personalized education, and the school’s faculty are noted for their collaborative teaching approach.
Students benefit from a diverse array of co-curricular activities, including competitive clubs and creative opportunities, while the school has improved scheduling to reduce student stress. The physical environment features upgraded facilities and technology, though there are suggestions for further modernization and expanded air conditioning.
While the rigorous curriculum promotes growth, some students express concerns about academic stress and homework loads. The community is exploring ways to balance high standards with student well-being, including mental health training and adjustments to course loads. Overall, Woodlands is committed to nurturing individual student needs and maintaining a supportive learning environment.
Goal III: Schools of the Sacred Heart commit themselves to educate to a social awareness which impels to action.
Woodlands faculty foster a supportive environment for discussing equity and moral values, emphasizing social justice and community service. The Center for Global Studies aims to immerse students in diverse perspectives and prepare them for global leadership through programs like International Exchange, Global Scholars, and Global Odyssey. Each year, more than 25 students from international Sacred Heart schools visit Woodlands, and the school sends an average of 17 students on domestic and international exchanges. Since 2008, Woodlands has had a reciprocal exchange with Sacré Coeur Wien, where 12 students and three adults visit Austria in the fall, and the Viennese visit Woodlands in the spring. Sixty-five percent of Woodlands students participate in the exchange program either as day hosts, night hosts, or exchange students.
Woodlands’ curriculum includes Social Justice and Ethics classes based on Catholic Social Teaching, allowing students to discuss sensitive topics comfortably. Programs such as the “21Day Equity Challenge” further promote awareness of diversity and inclusion. Service is integral to the school culture, with
mandatory service hours and initiatives like Service Day that connect students across grade levels. The International Club encourages ongoing dialogue about these critical issues.
While students volunteer at various nonprofit organizations, including environmental initiatives, there is a recognition that Woodlands can enhance its sustainability efforts. Suggestions include improving recycling programs and making service opportunities more accessible and impactful. Although service requirements can sometimes feel like a “checkbox,” clearer communication about the significance of these activities could strengthen student engagement.
There is also a desire for more inclusive and varied international service opportunities beyond the typical Euro-centric focus. Students express a need for additional service options outside regular school hours, potentially enhancing their commitment to community service. Overall, Woodlands Academy’s emphasis on service and leadership prepares students to make a positive impact in their communities and the world.
Goal IV: Schools of the Sacred Heart educate to the building of community as a Christian value.
Woodlands Academy emphasizes community building as a key Christian value, fostering relationships among students, faculty, and the broader Sacred Heart Network. The welcoming atmosphere, characterized by mutual respect, is evident through accessible faculty, orientation programs for newcomers, and a supportive environment where students feel embraced.
Woodlands integrates its mission and values into daily life, using visual displays and events to reinforce its goals. Advisories provide consistent support throughout students’ years, while co-curricular activities like sports, service days, and clubs enhance community connections. Participation in the Sacred Heart Network through conferences and service projects further strengthens these ties.
School traditions, such as the House Program, promote friendship across grades, while the campus’s clean and safe environment enhances the overall experience. Safety training programs, including Mental Health First Aid and CPR, prepare community members to handle crises effectively.
Woodlands promotes peace through mindfulness practices and various leadership training programs aimed at developing mutual respect and non-violent conflict resolution. Financial resources are allocated to support socio-economic diversity, offering assistance for tuition, uniforms, and extracurricular activities.
Despite strengths in community building, challenges remain in recruiting a diverse staff and fostering racial inclusivity. Concerns about support for marginalized groups and a desire for more interaction among diverse student populations have been noted. Some students have expressed a need for clearer communication regarding financial aid and resource availability, emphasizing the importance of educating the community about existing support systems.
Overall, enhancing communication and inclusivity could help address these challenges and strengthen community ties at Woodlands Academy.
Goal V: Schools of the Sacred Heart educate for personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom.
Goal V encourages students and staff to develop courage, confidence, and resilience while fostering personal growth in a supportive environment. The school promotes a culture of wellness across spiritual, intellectual, physical, and socialemotional domains, empowering students to take responsibility for their health. Parents and students recognize Woodlands as a place that builds self-confidence and encourages exploration without fear of failure.
Community Time (introduced in the 2022-23 academic year) allows for club activities and workshops, enhancing student engagement and fostering interests. Students appreciate the variety of academic courses available, including AP and elective options, which are driven by their interests.
Health classes and seminars align with the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) standards, emphasizing life skills and open communication. Students use
technology responsibly and participate in digital citizenship training, learning about media literacy, and online safety.
Creative expression is encouraged through art, theater, and diverse projects across subjects, supported by small class sizes that facilitate open dialogue. Programs like “Imagine Yourself in the C-Suite” provide students with insights from professionals, inspiring leadership and career exploration.
Students celebrate their achievements and the achievements of their classmates through awards and leadership opportunities, although there are requests for more practical courses and flexible club schedules. Some students express dissatisfaction with Community Time, feeling some activities lack substance, while faculty view it as valuable. While the emphasis on wise freedom is appreciated, there is a call for greater focus on personal growth within that framework.
Overall, we commend ourselves for:
• Offering a challenging academic curriculum and co-curricular activities that prepare the whole student for global citizenship.
• Having a well-qualified and dedicated adult community that embodies the Goals and Criteria as they minister to the unique needs of each student.
• Providing students with many leadership roles throughout the school and allowing them to make wise decisions, voice opinions, and share their gifts and talents with others.
Overall, we challenge ourselves to:
• Improve stewardship of the environment throughout the school and enhance sustainability.
• Explore new models of service or rework existing models to reenergize students.
• Explore further means of listening to and honoring diverse student perspectives to enhance the sense of community and belonging.
Read Woodlands’ full Sacred Heart Commission on Goals Self-Study online at bit.ly/SHCOG24
“That is What Makes us a Family.”
Arina Tverdokhlib’s dream was to live and study in the United States. As a Woodlands boarding student, she is achieving that dream.
Arina Tverdokhlib ’25 is a seven-day boarder who came to Woodlands during the 2022-2023 academic year, soon after the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Though she had to leave her country under extraordinary circumstances, she was delighted to find a home at Woodlands. Arina spoke with us about her migration to the United States and about her life at Woodlands Academy.
By Arina Tverdokhlib ’25
My name is Arina Tverdokhlib. I was born in Russia, and now my family and I live in Israel. My biggest dream in life was to study in the United States. When the war started, my family immigrated to Israel, and I realized I had an opportunity to finally achieve my dream. With a lot of work, help, and support from my family, I applied to Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart. I was deeply grateful for Woodlands Academy’s accepting me and understanding how hard it was to change my country for the third time in one year. The faculty and staff were incredibly supportive and welcoming. I transferred to Woodlands at the start of my sophomore year.
It is now my third year living in the U.S. Living alone at such a young age is definitely hard. I miss my family a lot and call them as much as I can, but with such a wonderful community around me and being involved in many school activities helped me cope with homesickness. I thoroughly enjoy my time here. Woodlands is the fourth school I have attended, and I assure you that I am receiving the best education of all here. I’m amazed at how the teachers are willing to support us at any time. They keep reminding us that there are no stupid questions or mistakes and that anyone is welcome to reach out for help. They are genuinely passionate about their jobs, which, for me, is the most essential quality in a good teacher. At first, I was scared of transferring to another school and learning a different language, but the excitement was more enticing!
When I moved into the boarding program, all the girls and the house parents were lovely and helped me adapt to my new living environment. Living independently
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taught me a lot. I faced more responsibility for my own life. I had to learn to better manage my time between homework, chores, and extracurriculars. After one year, I have become more accountable and organized than ever. At first, it wasn’t easy to find the same interests as the girls due to cultural differences, but by having all that support around me, soon enough, I became more confident in my English, which led me to become more open to others, and I realized how similar we all are. When you live together, you create that unexplainable bond, and now my closest friends are boarders I met three years ago. I have friends from all around the world just because of Woodlands. Those girls became my second family, and the boarding program became my third home!
All-girls schools provide an environment where young women can thrive academically, socially, and personally. Woodlands Academy promotes a strong sense of empowerment, encouraging girls to take on leadership roles and excel in traditionally maledominated fields like STEM. I would have never thought I would have good leadership skills, but Woodlands gave me a chance to find that out. Right now, I’m a lead editor of the Woodlands yearbook, a part of an all-girls robotics team, and a costume leader in theater. Those positions taught me how to become a great leader, and I am grateful that I can use those skills in the future. There are leadership positions all around the school. You can be house president or a club leader, or you could be both! The opportunities are unlimited, and only your interests will stop you from doing all of them.
As for my free time, the boarding program schedules many fun activities for us over the weekends. For example, we visited the Museum of Science and Industry and even got to see “Hamilton” in downtown Chicago. Aside from all the fun that we experience in Chicago, by living with people from all around the world, I’ve learned so much about different traditions and celebrations, as well as I’ve shared my own.
As I said previously, Woodlands Academy has provided me with the best education I ever had. Here, the teacher’s goal
is to ensure you understand the material and not just give a lesson. If you want to, you are not restricted from taking any classes. The school system encourages you to push yourself to achieve more. Still, all of your subjects are in balance with each other (Huge thanks to Mr. Gargiulo, who has a magical superpower of balancing all of the classes in one person’s schedule simultaneously).
Woodlands taught me how to manage my time, be a part of the team, and be a leader. Woodlands taught me how to be a good friend and, surprisingly, a good neighbor. This year, my senior year, I’ve decided to push myself out of my comfort zone. I am taking multiple AP courses, which I had never taken before, so this is a challenge, but I have faith that I can do it!
When I graduate from Woodlands in June, I will enroll and serve in the Israeli army for two years. Yes, it’s a requirement for all Israeli citizens, but I believe it will be an exciting journey where I will learn a lot of new and interesting aspects of the army, myself, and my culture. (I am also learning my fourth language!) Before that, I’m looking forward to applying to universities. I don’t have an exact major in mind, but I’m confident I want to connect my strong leadership and management skills with an interest in STEM. Perhaps my time in the army will help me with my decision.
Many people told me that community is one of the best things here at Woodlands Academy. At first, I did not understand what they meant, but now I solely agree. Woodlands has a variety of aspects to build a solid community. One of the main reasons it happens is the size of the school. All students and teachers have a close relationship, which makes us united. All the school activities are directed towards building a safe space for students to grow and bringing them together. In the boarding program, these girls will become your second family by the end of the year because you all live together, help each other, and learn from each other. That is what creates such a strong bond between us. That is what makes us a family.
Irma Patricia “Patsy” Reiss, RSCJ, died on August 11, 2024. Sr. Patsy served in many capacities at Barat College, including campus minister and RSCJ-in-Residence. Following the closure of Barat College, Sr. Patsy served as an RSCJ Presence at Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart. Sr. Patsy lived her life in complete fidelity to the Spirit, and her life overflowed with the love of God that had been poured into her heart. We at Woodlands Academy and Barat College were the beneficiaries of her prayers and love. Shortly after Barat’s closing, Sr. Patsy penned the following reflection, which we are honored to share with Coeur à Coeur readers.
My Spirituality of Presence
By Patricia Reiss, RSCJ
Growing up in the Northeast, I had, from early childhood, noticed and appreciated the four distinct seasons. Their sometimes stunning and dramatic changes in light and color, and at other times, more subtle shifts, filled me with delight. One October afternoon, it dawned on me that not only as all that brilliance of color, sky and clouds God’s gorgeous gift to us; but that each day of each season could be such if I looked, if I but took a moment to notice, to be present. It also dawned on me that these four wonderfully changing seasons, whether bright, sunny and beautiful—as I then preferred—or whether overcast, dark and threatening, could describe what was happening within me.
Years later, in my favorite class at Barat College, I was introduced to Gerard Manley Hopkins, SJ, whose life and poetry continue to inspire and sustain me. His “There lives the dearest freshness deep down…” touches me anew each time I notice, delight in, and reverence that “dearest freshness deep down” in each person, in all of God’s creatures. This awareness, this attentiveness in our looking and noticing, takes time and practice; it is an art, a discipline, and it is a grace. It is the art of being present as fully as we can.
I feel that one of the deepest, if not the deepest, yearnings of the human heart is to love and be loved. By our very vocation as RSCJ and Sacred Heart family members, “our union and conformity with the Heart of Jesus” widens our capacity for love and helps us “look upon the world as the work of the Creator’s
love, to love without being possessive, to be concerned for others and to be bearers of His life.” (1982 Constitutions §62)
In my years at Barat, thirty-seven counting those as students, especially during the later ones, when its existence was precarious, I felt a clear, strong call to be a loving, prayerful RSCJ presence; not only for the resident students with whom I lived, but for our whole Barat Community—all the students, faculty, staff, alums, friends. Though challenging, it was both a privilege and a joy to be able to foster connections and to nurture and cherish relationships, thus continuing St. Madeleine Sophie’s spirit and mission.
Just as the brilliant October afternoon of sixty years ago gifted me with an expertise that influenced and helped form me, so too did a more recent one. On June 30, 2005, Barat’s closing date, I was the only, as well as the last, person ever to sleep there. Out of the darkness of that so dark night, I heard a variation of a favorite, frequently prayed line from the Song of Songs. “I sleep, but my heart keeps watch” became “I do not sleep so that my heart can keep watch.” And I felt no longer alone, but aware of the Presence of all those, living and dead, who had ever been connected with or related to Barat.
Now, at Woodlands, the seasons continue to change, and I am blessed to be fostering connections and nurturing relationships anew, and to be able to practice the art of being present.
Prize Day
Many Woodlands Academy students – and one of their teachers – were recognized for numerous achievements throughout the school year during the Prize Day honors ceremony on June 4, 2024, the 165th annual distribution of awards.
Highlights included presentation of the 2023-24 Woodlands Award, the highest honor a Woodlands Academy student can attain, to senior Aanya Sahu. Based on the votes of faculty and students, this award recognizes outstanding service, leadership, character and scholastic development.
The Distinction in Studies Award was presented to Gianna Keuer for maintaining the highest scholastic average during her four years of high school. She is the Class of 2024 valedictorian. Megan Caserio, salutatorian, achieved the second-highest grade point average after four years of high school.
The Frances de la Chapelle Excellence in Teaching Award was presented to social studies teacher Maureen Shinnick.
CLASS OF 2024 GRADUATION
Members of Woodlands Academy’s senior class received their diplomas during the school’s 165th Commencement Exercises on June 5, 2024.
Senior Aanya Sahu was selected by her classmates to deliver the student address. She reflected on a high school journey that began with the switch to remote learning during her class’s first year at Woodlands Academy due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“My last four years with you have taught me the value of a strong community. It is at Woodlands, where I am surrounded by such inspiring and amazing people, that I am continually able to become a better version of myself,” Sahu said. “Seniors, as you go off into the world, spend some time reflecting on the memories you made with each other because I know I wouldn’t trade them for anything else. The strength of this tight-knit community that we have the privilege to be a part of will continue to influence each and every one of us as we do incredible things, fulfilling our every dream.”
We are so proud to celebrate the Woodlands Academy Class of 2024, who are currently matriculating at the following colleges and universities. No matter where our alumnae go, they will always have a home in the Sacred Heart.
Arizona State University
Augustana College
Bowdoin College
Carthage College
DePaul University (2)
Endicott College
Elon College
Gonzaga University
Illinois Wesleyan University (2)
Indiana University
Lake Forest College
Loyola Marymount University (2)
Marquette University
Northwestern University
Rollins College
Santa Clara University
Sewanee: The University of the South Texas Christian University
University of Arizona
University of Florida
University of Illinois at Chicago
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (2)
University of Miami
University of Notre Dame
University of Southern California
University of Vermont
Wellesley College
Mater Ceremony
Parents and other guests joined the Woodlands Academy community on October 17, 2024, for the Mater Mass, which honors the school’s sophomores and brings them to a deeper understanding of the heritage and traditions of a Sacred Heart education.
This Woodlands Academy tradition marks a student’s transition from a time as a child to an emergence as a young woman who recognizes that receiving a Sacred Heart education is a blessing in her life to be treasured.
The program featured some reflections from Woodlands Academy students. Among them were the thoughts of Kate Marlowe ’27: “When I think about the story of Mater, it reminds me that our faiths often take time to grow and develop. We learn from our mistakes and are always striving to change for the better. I am incredibly fortunate that Woodlands has given me the opportunity to grow and thrive academically, and I am so grateful to be standing next to these girls here today.”
Reunion 2024
Nearly 100 Woodlands Academy alumnae from years ending in 4 and 9 joined us for Reunion 2024 on September 20 and 21. It was a joy to gather and celebrate our shared history. Whether reminiscing over photos, catching up with favorite teachers—including Ms. Schmidt and Mr. Gargiulo—or taking a peek into their former classrooms, past memories were shared, and new ones were made.
Friday’s events included a “Sip ‘n’ Shop” at J. McLaughlin in Lake Forest’s Market Square. Saturday’s festivities began by shopping for some new Woodlands swag, and then cheering on the Varsity and JV Volleyball Wildcats as they took on Yorkville Christian. Later that afternoon, alums gathered for a special Mass to remember their classmates who were no longer with us. The liturgy included a special celebration of the life of longtime Woodlands friend and RSCJ Presence, Sr. Patsy Reiss, who died in August. Mass was followed by a special alumnae cocktail reception and delicious dinner at the Deerpath Inn in downtown Lake Forest.
Reuniting with familiar faces, rekindling old friendships, and building new connections remind us of the vibrant spirit of our school community. Thank you, alumnae, for making this reunion one to remember!
“For the sake of one child, I would have started the Society.”
Two hundred years ago, our foundress, St. Madeleine Sophie Barat, made that bold statement, and for over 160 years, we have made it our mission to value, understand, nurture, challenge, and love each of our girls as if she were the only one.
Your sustaining support of the Woodlands Fund benefits every student, every day, by supporting curricular and co-curricular programs, state-of-the-art science laboratories, and our exceptional teachers.
At Woodlands Academy, a young woman thrives thanks to your generosity. She is our mission. She is our priority. She is our future.
To make your gift to the Woodlands Fund, please scan the QR code at right, visit woodlandsacademy.org/donate, or use the envelope inside this issue of Coeur à Coeur.
