East/Northeast Catholic Schools

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Catholic Schools Week

A+ for America Catholic Schools

Inside Welcome letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Guardian Angels . . . . . . . . . . . 11

McNicholas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

‘Virtues in Practice’ . . . . . . . . 13

St. Michael . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

St. Cecilia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Purcell Marian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Connecting with elders . . . . . 15

Immaculate Heart of Mary . . . 6

Summit Country Day . . . . . . . . . 16

St. Margaret of York . . . . . . . . . 6

Roger Bacon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Mount Notre Dame . . . . . . . . . . 7

St. Ursula Academy . . . . . . . . 18

St. Ursula Villa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

St. Columban . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

St. Gertrude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Contact Catholic Schools Week is a yearly publication organized by the Specialty Publications Department of The Community Press/The Community Recorder.

Questions and comments can be sent to Editor Melissa Hayden c/o The Community Press/394 Wards Corner/Loveland, OH 45140 or e-mail mhayden@communitypress.com. Or call 248-7121.

For advertising call 687-4614.

January 31 - February 4, 2011 East

A+ for America Catholic Schools

Director of Educational Services and Superintendent of Catholic Schools Dr. Jim Rigg with students.

WELCOME LETTER

D

ear friends of Catholic Schools, Each year, we set aside one week of the year to celebrate the excellence and heritage of our Catholic Schools.

In the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, we are blessed with some of the finest Catholic schools in the country.

Our schools are setting the standard for academic excellence; through the relentless dedication of our many talented teachers and administrators, Catholic school students are embracing our top-notch educational programs and are poised to become leaders in a changing world.

Our schools have established warm, nurturing communities where students are valued and validated every day.

Most importantly, our schools have accepted the call to embody the teachings of Christ and spread God’s good news to all people.

The theme for Catholic Schools Week this year is “A+ for America.”

As superintendent, I give our schools top marks for their academic superiority, nurtur-

ing communities, and faith-filled educational programs.

During Catholic Schools Week, I hope that you join me in rejoicing in the strength of our schools.

In the pages that follow, you will find accounts of some of the good things happening in our schools.

I invite you to visit your local Catholic school and witness the excellence of our schools firsthand.

Many of our schools are hosting open houses in the coming weeks; if you have school-aged children, I encourage you to contact a Catholic school, take a tour, and consider enrolling.

Our schools are truly a blessing to Cincinnati. Happy Catholic Schools Week to all!

Yours in Christ, Dr. Jim Rigg Director of Educational Services Superintendent of Catholic Schools Archdiocese of Cincinnati

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A+ for America Catholic Schools

Catholic Schools Week

McNicholas has a place for every student No matter what your academic ability, Archbishop McNicholas High School can help you achieve excellence. McNicholas High School promotes a co-educational, Christ-centered, Catholic community that embraces each student – intellectually, morally, physically, and spiritually. They provide a safe, nurturing, creative, and challenging campus where individuals grow in knowledge and faith to attain full stature in Christ.

Each class averages 19 students, and they offer 13 advanced placement courses and 25 fine and performing arts electives. The science department has received the Ohio Governor’s Award for Excellence 22 consecutive years and in the past decade, McNicholas has had 28 National Merit Semifinalists and 67 National Merit Commended students.

The theatre department has

McNicholas High School promotes a co-educational, Christ-centered, Catholic community that embraces each student – intellectually, morally, physically, and spiritually been invited to perform at the Ohio Thespian Convention for 15 consecutive years and produces numerous shows throughout the year. McNicholas is also proud to offer the S.A.I.L. (Support and Accommodations for Identified Learners) Program, which addresses the needs of identified students, helping them cope with learning in the high school environment.

Beginning with the 2011-2012 school year, McNicholas will be

implementing a one-to-one Tablet PC program with the Class of 2015. “It’s going to get students more engaged in learning,” Principal Greg Saelens said. “We have students who are digital learners; they have grown up with this technology,” Saelens added.

The one-to-one program puts a Tablet PC in the hands of each student in the program. A Tablet PC is a laptop plus much more. A Tablet PC allows the student to write, edit, or draw directly on the screen with a digital pen.

With the digital pen, a tablet user can jot quick notes, draw diagrams, or write formulas without the constraints of a keyboard or mouse. Documents, such as teacher handouts, can be annotated quickly, using any color ink or highlighter-just by using the digital pen. Notes are easier to take, easier to search, and easier to organize. With a tablet program,

teachers are able to integrate the many software programs available to the various academic disciplines as well as having the ability to seize the “teachable moment” for spontaneous classroom work involving computer technology.

The Community Service Program is another strong aspect of McNicholas. It is a “service learning” program designed to challenge our students to “attain full stature in Christ” by building the gospel value of service to the “least of these.” All students are required to complete at least 40 hours of community service in order to graduate. Service is done through school, parish or an agency that serves those in need.

Most students do the vast majority of their service with the underprivileged and average 76 service hours, going beyond the 40 hour

See MCNICHOLAS on page 9

A+ for America Catholic Schools

January 31 - February 4, 2011 East

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St. Michael offers superior education Purcell Marian: ‘Discover Founded in 1927, St. Schools Week where each celebrated and recognized the World Inside’ Michael School has homeroom will make a as part of their diverse evolved into an academically superior Catholic community by relying on the support of parishioners and staff.

It earned the Blue Ribbon Schools Award in 2009 and consistently graduate students that go on to be very successful at local Catholic high schools such as St. Xavier, Moeller, Mount Notre Dame, Fenwick and Ursuline Academy.

St. Michael has been a cornerstone in Sharonville for decades and has progressed along with the city’s growth.

St. Michael School teaches kindergarten through eighth grade and has two classes for each grade with a maximum class size of 28.

Its dedicated, caring faculty is comprised of recently degreed teachers as well as those with over 30 years of experience.

St. Michael strives to provide a safe and nurturing environment in which each child can fully develop his/her potential: spiritually, academically and socially.

Teachers and staff at St. Michael make a conscious effort to integrate faith into the daily lives of their students.

Catholic Schools Week is a great opportunity for the school and community to share in the teachings and traditions of the Church.

This year St. Michael School is taking the opportunity to celebrate Catholic Schools Week with an international theme to recognize the cultural diversity in their own community.

The School is planning an International Day on Wednesday of Catholic

presentation on a foreign country. Each class will be assigned a country of origin that they will research to learn more about their particular culture.

There are many students at St. Michael with parents from other countries and St. Michael is approved by the Immigration and Naturalization Department to accept foreign exchange students and this year they are lucky enough to have two exchange students.

These cultures will be

community.

St. Michael School has a long tradition of providing a solid Catholic education.

It is a major part of their mission to assist their students in acquiring a sense of responsibility for themselves, the community in which they live and the world community.

For more information about St. Michael, visit the website at www.stmichael sharonville.org or call the school office for tour information at 554-3555.

The school in East Walnut Hills is what Purcell Marian officials want you to visit during their upcoming Open House in November. But embracing the world of potential inside each Purcell Marian student is what they credit for the school’s recent boom of success.

Just this past school year, Purcell Marian produced three division championships in wrestling, swimming and

boys’ volleyball, and placed in the Final Four statewide for boys’ volleyball.

Three Cavalier coaches earned Coach of the Year, and the school ranked in the top 10 in Ohio and No. 1 in Cincinnati for schools its size in the Ohio Mathematics Competition. In addition, the Academic Team brought home multiple wins against much larger

See PURCELL MARIAN on page 15

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Catholic Schools Week

A+ for America Catholic Schools

Change is good at Immaculate Heart of Mary School For the first time in its 55-year history, Immaculate Heart of Mary is providing kindergarten. They have three full-day kindergartens that are housed in the annex behind the church.

The rooms are beautiful and encourage hands-on learning and social interaction. Upon arrival in August, each kindergartener was given a backpack, supplies, and a special kindergarten tshirt that can be worn on Fabulous Fridays during

the school year. IHM parent, Stephanie Kastner has painted a beautiful garden mural on the walls. The rooms are colorful, inviting, and very kid-friendly.

The kindergarten is a great addition to the IHM family.

The Enrichment Program for students has been moved to a new modular classroom. This program services students in the primary grades through grade eight. IHM

See IHM on page 8

A pre-eminent learning environment St. Margaret of York (SMOY) Catholic School is a pre-eminent Catholic learning and development environment for children from kindergarten through eighth grade with 700 students enrolled.

Located conveniently in the midst of the Loveland, Mason and Maineville areas, St. Margaret of York School is dedicated not only to educating children but to making a difference in the world through an active expression of Jesus’ love and gospel message

through Christian service.

St. Margaret of York School’s learning environment is holy. Students are guided by this year’s school theme of “With Christ as my model, let peace begin with me” and are encouraged to pray together on a school, classroom, and individual basis.

The Catholic faith is a very important part of the faith-based curriculum where Christian values are encouraged daily and students attend school masses weekly.

Students also prepare

for the Sacraments of Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation as well as practice their faith through outreach projects that make a positive impact on the community and the world.

St. Margaret of York School’s learning environment is dynamic.

Students’ lessons are based on the Archdiocese of Cincinnati graded courses of study.

Also, students in kindergarten through eighth grade learn Spanish, benefit from technology which is integrated into all curricular areas, and extend their learning through after-school programs which include Math Counts, Power of the Pen, Drama, TaeKwonDo, Young Rembrandts, Better Babysitting, Chess, and High School Entrance Test Exam Prep.

St. Margaret of York School’s learning environment is nurturing.

Students enjoy a “family atmosphere” with teachers and parents working together on their behalf with a strong and supportive PTO group.

Additionally, St. Margaret of York School also provides a latchkey program for students who need to stay at school after normal classroom hours.

The school also offers an opportunity to achieve scholarships to area Catholic High Schools by offering eight scholarships “in house.”

To learn more about St. Margaret of York School, you are invited to a visitor orientation session scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 10, beginning at 9 a.m.

Please call Mrs. McNamara at 683-9793, ext. 222, to reserve a spot.

January 31 - February 4, 2011 East

A+ for America Catholic Schools

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Mount Notre Dame: Positioning young women for success Mount Notre Dame offers a unique and complete college prep experience. It is an experience that is rooted in Catholic tradition and superior academic quality, but MND also offers vast extracurricular opportunities for its students that foster leadership, team work and a sense of responsibility to share their gifts with others. The result – bright, confident young women who go on to excel in college, career and in life.

The foundation of the Mount Notre Dame experience is the impressive academic program.

With 18 Advanced Placement and 22 Honors courses, MND’s Honors/AP opportunities (including an AP course available to freshmen) are among the best in the region. MND’s Scholars Program exposes qualifying students to not only the most challenging course of study and early exposure to college placement

Walking through the halls, it is evident that Mount Notre Dame’s students support, encourage and challenge each other.

tests, but also to a vast array of career exploration opportunities.

The Tablet PC Program makes the most of educational technology and opens doors teachers and

students never even dreamed of knocking on just a few years ago.

MND’s engineering courses prepare the scientifically talented young women of today for a

career in this male-dominated field. MND also boasts strong programs in the humanities that

See MOUNT NOTRE DAME on page 20

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Catholic Schools Week

A+ for America Catholic Schools

Scholarships, scores prove great results at St. Ursula Villa A record $895,828 in merit scholarships was offered by competitive Cincinnati-area high schools to 46 percent of St. Ursula Villa’s Class of 2011.

These scholarships are a result of the Villa eighth-graders’ impressive scores on the High School Placement Test: 21.5 percent achieved highest-possible scores of 99.9 percentile nationally and 51percent scored above the 90th percentile.

Ninety-eight percent of the class was accepted into their firstchoice high school where Villa students typically place into honors level courses.

Successful transition into high

At the Villa, small classes, dedicated faculty, and resources ranging from academic support to enrichment create a customized educational experience. school is a hallmark of St. Ursula Villa’s Junior High program, which emphasizes study skills, time management, and independence.

The success of St. Ursula Villa’s Junior High program illustrates the strong foundation laid in the Villa’s previous grades.

Iowa test scores show that Villa students performed above their anticipated reading, language and math totals at every grade level and significantly above the Archdiocesan mean scores.

At the Villa, small classes, dedicated faculty, and resources ranging from academic support to enrichment create a customized educational experience.

Villa students in kindergarten through third grade participate weekly in higher-order thinking

skills and small groups receive extension in math, reading, and writing.

Enrichment activities – in and out of the classroom – have grown to include Destination Imagination, iSpace, Power of the Pen, and National Junior Honor Society, offering opportunities for personal growth and discovery.

St. Ursula Villa’s strong Ursuline heritage forms the core values of this unique school.

Emphasis on the individual, family atmosphere, and the Christ-centered spirit of St. Angela Merici nurture independent learners who inspire, create, lead, engage and serve.

IHM | From page 6 also boasts of an extensive IAT Program that addresses the individual needs of students.

Students are referred by the parent or teacher expressing a concern about the child’s progress. An Intervention Team meets to discuss the student’s strengths and weaknesses.

Interventions are set in place to enhance the child’s learning. Ongoing meetings evaluate their progress.

The staff is moving into its second year of PLC Training. A PLC is a professional learning community that incorporates every aspect of the school’s operation. In order to increase student

learning, educators must work together. The goal of the PLC is to create a collaborative culture in order to increase the chances of successful school improvement.

Spanish is taught to all grades, and an in-house studio gives older students experience in internal broadcasting. The school houses over 19 inter-active whiteboards, several laptop carts, a fully equipped computer lab, a piano lab, and a Starlab. IHM also has a band and a strings program. Students have the opportunity to enjoy our completed outdoor classroom which includes seating for an entire class, a water feature, trees,

Be a part of the 2012 “Catholic Schools Week” program. Call 687-4614 for details. This program is published once a year during Catholic Schools Week with support of the Cincinnati Archdioces.

flowers, and children’s statuary. The area provides a peaceful environment to enjoy a good book or paint a beautiful picture.

The Open House will be held on Sunday, Jan. 30. The faculty and administration are anxious to show off the award-winning school.

Registration materials will be available for kindergarten through grade eight.

For information on school registration, please contact Debbi Hill at 3883020 or debbiH@ihomschool.org. Information is also available on the website www.ihomschool.org.

A+ for America Catholic Schools

January 31 - February 4, 2011 East

Top reasons to check out St. Gertrude 1. Strong Catholic Values where faith, virtue education, and religion are integrated into each and every school day.

2. Strong Dominican presence and identity with four sisters in residence and seven Dominican friars.

3. Students at St. Gertrude School perform at the highest levels in academics. Last year alone, six students tested in the top 4 percent nationally on high school entrance tests with over $100,000 awarded in high school scholarships and 35 Awards of Distinction.

4. Cutting edge technology integrated into all courses of study including smart boards, wireless, professional development and a highly

qualified full-time technology coordinator.

5. New facilities with science and computer labs, full-service library and cafeteria, and beautiful religious artwork that encompasses the whole school.

6. Strong parish and community support.

7. St. Gertrude is just the right size – large enough for a great learning environment with children attending from 18 different school districts, but small enough to be a part of a family, one that cares and supports one another.

8. Great opportunities to explore learning through varied enrichment such as Academic Fair, Power of the Pen,

Musical Theatre, and various elective courses offered to the Junior High students throughout the year.

9. Strong tradition of excellence in athletics including programming for boys’ and girls’ sports and numerous league and tournament championships.

10. Tradition – St. Gertrude is a faith-filled community serving its school community and embracing the many diverse gifts each student has to offer while embracing the school/parent collaboration in offering each child the best Catholic education possible while preparing them for future success and a life of service to others.

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McNicholas | From page 4 minimum requirement.

There are also schoolwide service projects including the Hunger Awareness Food Drive, Penny Drive, Warm Clothing Drive, and Christmas Gifts for Kids.

McNicholas students regularly exceed set goals with these projects and others when it comes to helping those outside their community.

Extracurricular activities are also an important part of McNicholas life.

Every “Rocket” is strongly encouraged to become involved in clubs and activities that range from the exhilaration of musicals to the intensity of Academic Team tournaments, from the activism of the Ecology Club and Service Club to the lead-

ership of Student Council.

McNicholas’ highlyrespected and competitive athletic program brings excitement and spirit to our campus.

McNicholas fields 42 teams in 23 sports, which boast of district, regional and state championships, King of the Hill trophies and other league honors.

We are also now able to give our athletes the home field advantage with the installation of an all-weather artificial turf field and eight-lane track.

From freshman orientation to senior graduation, students feel at home at McNicholas High School. For more information about becoming a Rocket, please visit www.mcnhs.org or call 231-3500.

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A+ for America Catholic Schools

Catholic Schools Week

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January 31 - February 4, 2011 East

A+ for America Catholic Schools

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Guardian Angels School prepares students for a lifetime of learning Guardian Angels School has been an integral part of the Mount Washington/Anderson community since 1895.

Guardian Angels School fosters the development of the whole child in a value-enriched environment.

Our school program is a dynamic blend of current, research-based educational practices, incorporated with proven traditional curricula and methods.

We provide an environment which prepares each student for a culturally diverse world by proclaiming values rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

In October 2007, Guardian Angels School was named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education.

While the Blue Ribbon status recognizes a school’s efforts to deliver the highest quality educa-

tion it can, it also encourages its community of teachers, staff, students, and parish to continue supporting and striving for excellence.

Guardian Angels School, in cooperation with Guardian Angels Parish, parents and the community-at-large, endeavors to prepare students to be followers of Christ and productive citizens.

We believe …

• Every child is a gift from God and called to be a faithful servant of God. • Every child is capable of learning.

• In guiding and assisting each student to reach his or her potential academically, socially and spiritually.

• In designing academic and religious instruction to stimulate a desire for lifelong learning, while fostering self-discipline, responsibility and integrity.

• In having respect permeate the school environment.

Guardian Angels School establishes an educational environment where students are able to maximize their spiritual, academic, social and physical potential.

Teachers employ methods and techniques that meet the learning style of each student; there is no “one size fits all” way of teaching.

Guardian Angels School integrates technology into daily classroom instruction according to the needs of the students and educators.

All classrooms plus the science lab and Spanish classroom used interactive whiteboard technology, and every grade level has one set of handheld Student Response units for instant assessment.

The state-of-the-art science lab is equipped with technology and equipment for all grade levels,

and communication to classrooms comes via the Angels on the Air broadcast studio.

Guardian Angels School has an student to teacher ratio of 20 to one. Since 2003, Guardian Angels School has provided an after school care program in response to parents’ needs.

Parents are encouraged to be a part of their children’s GA education as they volunteer to participate in classroom activities or any number of PTA, music booster, and athletic booster opportunities.

The school’s music program offers students the opportunity to participate in several bands and choral groups including GA Band, jazz band, and chorus.

All students participate each spring in the art show.

Extracurricular activities include athletics, student council, Angels

See GUARDIAN ANGELS on page 20

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A+ for America Catholic Schools

Catholic Schools Week

Following a year-long study of U.S. history and the founding of the country, Mercy Montessori fifth- and sixth grade-students traveled to Washington, D.C., on a much-anticipated class trip. This hands-on learning experience takes place every other year and comprehensive classwork is currently being completed in preparation for the spring 2011 visit to our nation’s capital. Pictured here in front of The White House are Mercy students from the class trip in 2009.

Mercy Montessori goes to Washington, D.C.

By Patricia A. Scheyer | Contributor Students at Mercy Montessori school in East Walnut Hills know they have something special to look forward to when they reach the fifth and sixth grade.

That is the time when a yearlong history project culminates in a field trip to Washington, D.C. “Anyone will tell you that throughout their school career it is the field trips they remember,” said Principal Patty Normile with a chuckle.

“This field trip is a working trip, and really makes history come alive for the students,” she said.

Normile has been principal for the last 10 years, but the D.C. trip has been going on for twice that long.

The founder who developed

the history program knew that seeing the sights of Washington first hand would truly cement the historical facts forever in the impressionable young minds.

“Each year we hold a lottery because so many parents want to go along,” said Lisa Galvin-Sang, director of advancement at the school. “My two older children both went, and had an amazing experience.”

The students have to earn their trip, however.

Beginning in September, they start compiling enormous binders which include documents, maps and reports on every monument.

While they are in Washington, D.C., they continue their work by keeping a journal, and taking photos, which are added to the binder.

“When they are finished, they have created miniature textbooks, which have personal meaning for each child,” said Normile.

“It is a showpiece, and we get plenty of feedback from high schools about what they have learned. The students also have to keep a budget while they’re on their trip, so they can learn how to manage money,” she said.

Fifty 11- and 12-year-olds out of the total number of 271 enrolled students make the trip to Washington, D.C., on a bus hired by the school, and a tour guide named Marie quizzes the boys and girls along the way.

Marie has been the tour guide for the last 10 years.

In Washington, the students visit every monument in the

area, and sometimes the individual parents and grandparents line up something special, like a tour of the Supreme Court, or a tour of the capitol, a sought after tour since 9/11.

After four days, the parents, teachers and students head for home.

“This is a great age group to travel with,” said Normile.

“They are trusting and fun to be with. They are also little sponges who soak up everything they can. That is why it stays in their memories.”

Teresa Kennedy O’Farrell, an alumna of the school, agrees.

“I’m thrilled that my son got to participate in such a unique and hands-on class trip,” she said. “I still have memories from my visit to D.C. when I was a Mercy student in the ’70s”

January 31 - February 4, 2011 East

‘Virtues in Practice’

By Jill Rooksberry | Contributor At St. Gertrude School in Madeira exciting things are happening in the form of a new formation program that is quickly becoming in demand all over the country.

What began as the “Virtues Education Program” has now been revised and broadened under the new name “Virtues in Practice.”

The idea behind the Virtues in Practice program is that students work each month to grow in a virtue with the example of a saint on a three-year cycle: Faith, hope, and charity.

This is the year of faith with a theme of devotions and service which has led to the implementation of several service projects that get the whole school community involved and reaching out.

Sister Mary Sheila Maksim is principal of the St. Gertrude School and has been enthusiastically working with other sisters around the country to make this program the success it has become.

Last year was the first year of the revised program with the theme of charity, which had the students focusing on loving their neighbors as they love themselves.

This topic helped open up conversation about bullying and what the Catholic response to the problem should be.

“Two major improvements to the school that came out of the year of Charity were a revision of the school discipline code and a Catholic answer to the issue of bullying,” said Sister Mary Sheila.

Eighth-grader Annie Bayer is a part of the Sacred Heart

A+ for America Catholic Schools

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“Two major improvements to the school that came out of the year of Charity were a revision of the school discipline code and a Catholic answer to the issue of bullying.”

Sister Mary Sheila

Leadership Program at St. Gertrude’s through which she gets to meet every week with a small group of seventh-grade girls to talk about any problems they might be having while tying in aspects of the virtue they are studying.

At first Annie was afraid her group would not open up, but has found conversation, in particularly about bullying, to flow quite freely.

“The girls have really opened up and are talking to one another about helping other kids to know how to stop bullying,” said

Bayer.

Jo Ann Bayer, Annie’s mother, feels that the program has helped not only the relationships students have with each other in school, but also has opened up communication between families in the home.

“The beautiful thing about the Virtues in Practice program is that it opens dialogue between parents and children,” she said.

“It helps parents teach their children even more about respecting other people and to bring about an awareness of other people around them and their feelings.”

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Catholic Schools Week

A+ for America Catholic Schools

St. Cecilia School: Educating, inspiring children since 1913 At St. Cecilia School, students learn the values of leadership, respect, and empathy on a daily basis.

As the Catholic K-8 grade school of St. Cecilia Parish in Oakley, the school partners with parents and students to provide an education in a nurturing environment that is academically strong and based on Catholic teachings.

St. Cecilia staff pass on the gift of education as well as the knowledge of and a love for Jesus Christ. It firmly believes that Jesus is the reason for the school.

This theme is woven through-

out school activities and extracurriculars including the popular Service Club and the long-standing Buddy Program, where upper- and lower-grade classes are paired together encouraging acceptance across ages.

St. Cecilia is committed to providing a program that enables the students to reason independently; to accept responsibility for their learning and self-discipline; and to develop a realization of their own value, potential, and uniqueness.

Small class sizes ensure children receive the attention needed to excel. The tenured staff work closely with students to help

St. Cecilia is committed to providing a program that enables the students to reason independently; to accept responsibility for their learning and selfdiscipline; and to develop a realization of their own value, potential and uniqueness. them reach their maximum potential.

The balanced curriculum includes art, music, computers, and Spanish, with religion class held daily beginning in kindergarten. Extracurriculars range from athletics to the school newspaper to scouting.

The school recently launched a new website, www.stceciliacinti.

org, where you can learn about the teachers and administration, academics and activities, the school’s mission and beliefs, admissions information and more.

Come experience St. Cecilia by calling the school office at 5336060 to schedule a tour, or visit during the open house Sunday, Jan. 30, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Call 687-4614 to learn how you can be a part of the February 2011 edition of the Private School Directory, published bi-annually by The Community Press/Recorder.

January 31 - February 4, 2011 East

A+ for America Catholic Schools

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Connecting with elders

By Jill Rooksberry | Contributor

Dr. Benton, who worked at Children’s Hospital for 45 years and taught at a This year the students at the Nativity post-graduate level, was impressed by the enthusiasm of the primary school School in Pleasant Ridge have had the children. privilege of taking part in a new pro“I felt blessed to have this new expegram brought to them by the Council for rience,” Benton said. “Never had I been Life Long Engagement. in a classroom where more than half of The program involves elders coming into the classroom with presentations on the children had their hands up to ask a variety of topics in order to engage the and answer questions.”

Ann Knellinger is in fifth grade at children in a very real and unique way.

Nativity School and she has enjoyed Laura Lamb is the vice-president of learning more about subjects they have operations for the Episcopal Retirement been discussing in the classroom Homes and this new program was her through the presentations brought to brainchild, born from the desire to provide elders an opportunity to share their them by the CFLLE. “I liked when Dr. Benton came to talk knowledge with school children and to about the Apollo 8 mission because I reverse the negative aspects of ageism. learned more detail about it and it con“The ultimate goal through this pronected to our science lesson, “ gram and others like it is to fully eradiKnellinger said. cate ageism,” Lamb said.

The CFLLE presentations have been “The hope is that the next generation so well received at Nativity School that that comes along in 30 years does not even realize we have had this problem,” there have been requests to expand to four other schools. she said.

Plans are also in the works for a Lamb said she has been blessed to Career Fair to take place in January at work in an environment where she is the Nativity School that will feature 25 surrounded by individuals that have elders sharing information with the more life experience than she does. She fourth- through sixth-grade classes feels that this is a point of view that, unfortunately, not enough people in this about their various professions.

The program is offering a new perday and age share.

“What bothers me is that in our socie- spective for both the children and elders involved and Dr. Benton is looking forty, in general, we do not value our eldward to the opportunity to visit the ers,” Lamb said school again, each time with a new presDr. Corning Benton was one of the entation. first elders to volunteer to take part in “I have enjoyed this new way of the program and brought an informative directing my energy in my seventies,” presentation to one of the Nativity Benton said. “I hope to be asked to do it School’s fifth-grade science classes that several more times over the next several focused on the Apollo 8 mission to the years.” moon.

Purcell Marian | From page 5 GCL and GGCL schools.

This past summer, many Purcell Marian students took advantage of opportunities through the school’s Scholars Program.

They took courses at Xavier University and Mount St. Joseph, and held leadership roles in the INTERalliance at Miami University and the University of Cincinnati where they worked with

CIOs, CTOs and CEOs from companies like GE, Kroger, Citibank and Lexus Nexus.

They taught classes to incoming underclassmen at the Leadership Scholar’s Summer Camp.

And many of these same students will graduate as college sophomores – complete with transcripts – at the cost of a Purcell Marian tuition.

Add to that Purcell

Marian’s unique Intersession program, an array of extracurriculars and sports, and an 80plush year tradition of Marianist spiritual education, and it doesn’t make sense not to find out more about how to discover the world inside – both Purcell Marian AND your student!

For more information, visit www.purcellmarian. org.

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Catholic Schools Week

A+ for America Catholic Schools

Boca owner David Falk, a Summit alum who serves on the board of Transitions Global, talked to students about efforts to end human trafficking.

The Summit specializes in developing leaders of character Academic excellence has been the hallmark of The Summit Country Day School since 1890, but founding Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur also emphasized leadership and character development.

As the city’s only independent, Catholic, coed school serving students age 2 through grade 12, The Summit has a nationally recognized character education program – Credo.

From the time 2-year-olds arrive, to the day seniors exit, Credo is embedded into everything: • Montessori preschool-k faculty guide children to model good behavior and learn the values of honesty, trust and respect.

• Community service takes root in the Lower and Middle Schools through curriculum-based service learning. Last year, “Hands Across the Water” became a national model for schools implementing P&G’s global “Children’s Safe Drinking Water” project.

• Upper School students explore selfawareness through formal writing, oratory, retreats, speakers and special programs. Cincinnati restaurateur and SCD alum David Falk recently talked to students about finding passion in life, committing to it and making a difference.

The Summit combines the academic excellence and personal attention of a top-tier independent school with the servant leadership and character building

The Summit combines the academic excellence and personal attention of a top-tier independent school with the servant leadership and character building environment typical of Catholic education. environment typical of Catholic education.

The value of a Summit education is evident when you review the outcomes of our graduates who “Aim High.”

Last year, competitive recruitment of the 2010 graduating class of 88 students by many selective universities yielded $13.5 million in merit scholarship offers.

The Summit is now celebrating the award of a Rhodes Scholarship to an alumnus.

“We make sure our graduates have the academic skills and ethical framework to improve the world they inherit,” said Rich Wilson, interim head of school.

January 31 - February 4, 2011 East

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Strong future for Roger Bacon High School News of Roger Bacon’s bright future is resonating throughout the city. Roger Bacon High School is changing and their future is strong.

At RB, we have invested over $3 million dollars in capital improvements to our campus with a new library/media center, new art studios, additions to the guidance department and field turf to the stadium. However, the newest and most substantial change to date is Roger Bacon’s new selective, benchmark driven admission policy.

The Class of 2014 is the first Students stand out and succeed at Roger Bacon High School. class to be admitted under this policy, and is the most selective academic levels are well balfor a promising future. Roger in RB’s history. The new policy anced, parental involvement is Bacon High School will always strengthens our core Franciscan high and most of all the students provide a Franciscan education, values and is designed to ensure are engaging, excited and happy we will always challenge our success for our students and to be here! young men and women to reach school. The results are clear and This is a change in the way we their potential and we will positive. More than 70 percent of accept a Roger Bacon student. We always maintain that close-knit the freshmen class come to us continue to look to our past and family atmosphere that makes us from a Catholic grade school, honor our traditions as we plan unique.

Spread the word! Roger Bacon is the premier co-ed Catholic high school in Cincinnati.

For details regarding admission contact Brandon Cowans, director of admission, at 641-1313 or bcowans@RogerBacon.org.

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A+ for America Catholic Schools

Catholic Schools Week

Be unstoppable at St. Ursula Academy, it’s worth it There’s a reason students come from more than 70 grade schools in three states to attend St. Ursula Academy. It’s worth it!

It’s the demand for the entire SUA experience that has enabled the school to grow from 63 students in 1910 to nearly 700 today.

St. Ursula Academy is considered a premiere private girls’ high school in Greater Cincinnati.

For more than 100 years, St. Ursula has committed to academic excellence, relationship and character building and service rooted in Catholic values.

SUA is known for high achievement in education, but focuses on the whole person to make sure every student enjoys a well-rounded high school experience.

St. Ursula is a nurturing Catholic educational community where students thrive inside and outside of the classroom.

Experienced and caring teachers,

coaches and staff unleash the potential of each student to become women of faith, integrity and courage. Our students build confidence, knowledge and friendships as part of their SUA experience.

Ask an SUA student or parent or come see for yourself what makes St. Ursula so extraordinary. There are many opportunities to experience firsthand the SUA campus and state-of-the-art facilities, the talented teachers, the tradition and history and the unforgettable feeling you get when you walk in the door.

“When I walked through the school for the first time, it felt special and I knew it was like no place I had ever been. I knew right away that this was the school for me,” said Sarah, SUA sophomore.

Students come to St. Ursula from every corner of the Greater Cincinnati region. Students and parents seek out St. Ursula

because they know it is something special.

Parents describe a feeling of peace and confidence knowing they have made a great choice for high school. They know their daughters will graduate from SUA with the tools they need to become tomorrow’s leaders with a strong foundation from SUA. Students develop friendships that last a lifetime. Class reunions and strong alumnae programs keep classmates and friends connected for life. It doesn’t take long for new and lasting friendships to form, whether incoming students know other girls on their first day or not. Our students become part of our family and feel nurtured by their caring teachers.

St. Ursula Academy believes balance is important. Students find they can pursue many interests at SUA beyond the classroom. There are more than 40 student clubs and organizations

that include hobbies, fine arts, honor societies, community service and much more. There are also several teams in 12 sports.

There truly is something for everyone at SUA. Many students and graduates say they love the century-long traditions at St. Ursula Academy from the freshman “beanie day” to the senior tea and graduation in long white gowns and red roses.

Upon graduation, students tell us they feel prepared for college.

St. Ursula students are educated to be open-minded critical thinkers and lifelong learners who study all aspects of an issue and form opinions based upon inquiry and analysis.

These skills give them selfconfidence, high self-esteem and integrity. SUA graduates are aware of their own unique gifts and the responsibility they have

See ST. URSULA on page 19

January 31 - February 4, 2011 East

A+ for America Catholic Schools

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Come see what sets St. Columban School apart The St. Columban story begins when one enters through the front doors of the school and encounters the mural of Jesus the Teacher, surrounded by children in school uniform.

Jesus and His teachings are, and always have been, at the heart of a St. Columban education.

Opened in September, 1926 to educate 70 students, the school currently thrives in the vibrant and growing Loveland community and educates 692 students in grades K-8.

The spirit and mission of St. Columban is evident in the ordinary and extraordinary moments of the school year.

A snapshot of a normal school day will show students engaged in lessons that are designed to develop their critical thinking skills through high-level questioning and discovery learning.

Students write, create multi-media presentations, and give oral presentations using strategies they have learned for effective communication.

During free times and lunch hours, students participate in leadership and service projects.

Parent volunteers are a strong daily presence in the building partnering with teachers and administration to read to classes, work in the classrooms on enrichment activities, clean the cafeteria, and assist in the library.

At the end of the school day, St. Columban students participate in a wide

range of extracurricular activities, including Scouts, LEGO Robotics, Drama Club, Bell Choir, and Stock Market Club, as well as numerous sports.

Students are held to high standards of academic excellence.

Academically, St. Columban students score higher than the national average, but more significantly, higher than anticipated.

A hands-on science curriculum has led to the school winning the Governor’s Award for Excellence and the Harold C. Shaw Outstanding School Award.

Combining a strong core curriculum with fine arts programs, technology skills, and visits from foreign student delegations, St. Columban weaves together a well-rounded education.

Be sure to Come and See the great things happening at St. Columban at our open house, Thursday, Feb. 3, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

In addition to classroom activities, the evening will feature a Student Art Show, Student Talent Showcase with the Bell Choir, band, Irish Dancers, and individual performances.

Can’t make it Thursday? Be sure to watch our “Come and See” video posted at www.saintcolumbanschool.org and schedule your personal tour.

St. Columban School: Quality education, kindergarten through eighth grade, where faith makes the difference.

St. Ursula | From page 18 to use these gifts to benefit themselves and others.

Whatever a student’s hopes and dreams, St. Ursula Academy can help her achieve them.

The guidance team begins to work personally with each student in her freshman year to help with the adjustment to high school and to make sure the classes fit the student.

Student guidance continues every year to make sure each student is on

track to meet her personal and education goals. In a student’s senior year, the guidance team offers many resources to assist with the college application and selection process, and the results are impressive.

In the past several years, between 85 percent and 89 percent of the seniors were offered merit scholarships for college in academics, athletics, the arts, and service totaling more than $22 million

Call 648-4614 to advertise in

CreativeLiving each year!

The slogan “We are St. Ursula. We are Unstoppable” applies to each student and her personal goals. SUA teaches every girl to have confidence, to believe in herself and to pursue her dreams and goals. St. Ursula is the total package! Learn more today.

For information or opportunities to visit SUA, please visit www.saintursula.org or call 961-3410.

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Catholic Schools Week

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Guardian Angels | From page 11 on the Air, drama club, robotics and engineering club, and chess club.

An education at Guardian Angels introduces and prepares students for the spiritual, intellectual, and emotional journey they will continue to travel long after they walk the halls of this Blue Ribbon school.

High school scholarships offered to last year’s graduating class totaled $220,000.

Guardian Angels School will host an open house Sunday, Jan. 30, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. 6539 Beechmont Ave. If you are unable to attend the open house and would like to arrange a tour, please call 6243143.

Mount Notre Dame | From page 7 offer leadership opportunities and a greater awareness of the interconnectedness of our global society.

MND is also deeply committed to the role of women in philanthropy.

Its student-run Youth Philanthropy Council is a mini-foundation that has made an impact regionally, nationally and internationally, and is now a flagship program being replicated by 17 other area schools.

Mount Notre Dame’s College Counseling and Guidance Department views the “Road to College” as a four-year partnership between the student, her parents, the academic team and her college counselor. MND’s systematic, yet customized approach to college counseling ensures that each young woman arrives at the destination that is best for her.

MND’s family spirit sets it apart. Walking through the halls, it is evident that Mount Notre Dame’s students support, encourage and challenge each other. This

environment produces young women who think critically to solve problems, work cooperatively in group settings, delight in each other’s successes and push one another to maximize their Godgiven gifts.

To top it all off, MND’s athletic program not only consistently brings home state championships but also produces players sought after by the most competitive colleges. Georgetown, Northwestern and Vanderbilt are just a few of the universities that have MND Cougars wearing their colors. In the last two years, 35 seniors have signed to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level.

In addition, MND meets various student interests and develops leadership through the nearly 50 clubs and organizations it offers. The Mount Notre Dame experience is one that nurtures the mind, body and soul. That commitment to the “whole person” is extremely evident

in the MND’s Student Activities Program. From academic to adventure; the environment to equestrian; from minority interests to Model UN, whatever a student’s interests may be, chances are “MND has a club for that.”

Many of MND’s clubs receive local, regional and national attention. MND’s Cougar Dance Team consistently places in the top 10 at the national level, and MND’s theatre company was recently nominated for 10 CAPPIE awards and brought home four trophies, including “Best Play.”

Mount Notre Dame definitely positions its students for success. It provides the young women of MND with the values and tools to succeed in high school, college and in their careers.

Beyond that, the encouragement and support from faculty and friends instills a solid sense of self in the young women of MND, allowing them to succeed in life.