Novy Scholars Program Expands Special Education Services

By Teresa Messmore, Director of Communications

Since 1955, Magnificat has sought to provide as many young women as possible with a holistic education that nurtures their academic, spiritual, and personal growth within a supportive Catholic community. In recent years, Magnificat has been able to serve a broader range of students by offering support for a variety of learning needs, including learning disabilities, mild autism, ADHD, and anxiety, thanks in part to funding from the State of Ohio’s Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship Program.

In March, President Moira Clark ’77 announced the further expansion of this effort with the launch of the Novy Scholars Program, designed for students receiving special education services who exhibit substantial intellectual needs. Named for Sister Helen Jean Novy, HM, whose enthusiasm for teaching and learning have inspired generations of students, the Novy Scholars Program will make a Magnificat education possible for a small number of students who meet specific criteria.

“Anchored in our Mission and Core Values, the Novy Scholars Program will address a critical need in our area for Catholic special education at the high school level,” Clark said.

Similar to the St. Andre Scholars at St. Edward High School, Magnificat’s Novy Scholars will be active participants in the school community and follow a modified curriculum focused on life skills and career readiness. Intervention specialist Erin Hertvik will teach their core classes in small groups and support them during electives. Novy Scholars will join the larger student body for all-school activities such as Mass, assemblies, and lunch.

The inaugural year of the Novy Scholars Program will begin this fall with two students entering 9th Grade with the Class of 2029, using a space within the Humility of Mary Center as their home base. The intent is to gradually grow the program to 6-8 students.

“We look forward to welcoming the Novy Scholars as an integral part of our Magnificat community who will be respected and valued for the gift of who they are,” Clark said.

If you are interested in supporting the Novy Scholars Program, please contact Vice President of Advancement Deborah Durbin ’81 at ddurbin@maghs.org or 440-331-7227. Thank you!