Borromeo Academy Brochure

A Message From Our Pastor

I am so happy to be part of this awesome parish and Academy. We are blessed with one of the best schools in the diocese. I look forward to a new academic year with much joy, hope, and love.

As we all know, expectations shape our attitudes and actions more than we realize. If we expect failure, we will probably fail. If we expect happiness, we have a better chance of finding it. If we limit where and how we expect to encounter Christ, we will miss many opportunities to find him.

At Borromeo Academy, our children have many opportunities to get involved and encounter Christ. We strive to provide a quality academic and Catholic education that will assist in developing a well-formed conscience in each scholar and academic success. This is accomplished by forming the whole child heart, mind, and soul. In doing so, our scholars will experience true happiness and become the awesome person our Lord meant them to be.

As your pastor, please be assured that our teachers and I will always be in one of these places for your children.

~We will be beside you so that you will not walk alone.

~We will be behind you so that you know we have your back.

~We will give you a gentle push in the right direction if needed.

~We will be in front of you to cheer you on and guide you.

~Finally, we will walk together to do what is best for our children.

Thank you so much for trusting us with your children. It is a great honor to have you here at our beautiful Borromeo Academy, where your children will grow "in wisdom and in stature, and in favor with God and man" (Luke 2:52).

Thank you for being part of our Awesome school family.

A Message From Our Principal

I want to thank you personally for your interest in our school and take a moment to welcome you to our academy and parish community.

Saint Charles Borromeo Academy (SCBA) has provided a quality Catholic education to children in the Northland for over 70 years. As a Catholic Liberal Arts (Classical) School, we believe that our scholars and teachers should be free to explore the truth, beauty, and goodness of God’s creation. With a solid academic background, our scholars can navigate the changing world with virtue as a constant companion.

In partnership with the Institute for Catholic Liberal Education and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, our fully accredited school, provides valuable professional learning opportunities for our teachers and staff. These opportunities deepen their understanding of instructional practices and the science of learning and teaching and fully develop their personal faith life.

Candance Stracener Principal

We take pride in our commitment to service learning, balancing the use of technology with practical skills, and the formation of our scholars. At Borromeo Academy, we are committed to providing more than just information; we intentionally form our scholars to be faith-filled, academically minded, and skilled community members. The formation of the whole child is the ultimate goal of our academic and faith programs.

I am excited to continue the tradition of excellence here at SCBA. I am looking forward to upcoming opportunities to honor our past and present programs.

"Catholic liberal education (from the Latin liber, which means free) is ordered to the Truth that sets us free. This formation frees teachers and students to grow in faith, wisdom, and virtue, leading to the only authentic freedom, which is freedom in Christ."

With lots of love and prayers, Father Thomas

"We are committed to forming children who are filled with the confidence and joy that they are loved by God and surrounded by truth, beauty, and the goodness of His creation."

Father Sunoj Thomas Pastor

Educating The Whole Person

Catholic

Borromeo Academy is the most significant ministry of Saint Charles Borromeo Parish. The teachings of our Catholic faith are woven throughout our daily lessons, routines, and relationships, creating a culture of communion with God through Jesus in the Holy Spirit. Our Christ-centered approach is founded on truth, charity, and mercy. Scholars and their families learn to actively participate in faith formation through weekly all-school Mass, bi-monthly school-family Masses, Holy Day celebrations, Sacramental preparations, outreach, and volunteer opportunities. “From whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love" (Ephesians 4:16).

Liberal Arts

Our Catholic Liberal Arts Education curriculum educates the whole person: faith, family, community, and morality. Borromeo Academy teachers strive to cultivate wonder through faith-filled environments that inspire minds and enlighten lives. High expectations for scholars, staff, and families help to form true disciples in Christ by instilling the truth and knowledge that each of us are “fearfully and wonderfully made”

(Psalms 139:14)

Early Childhood

Children ages two through five are invited to be members of our Early Childhood Center. Borromeo Academy Early Childhood Center teachers aspire to work alongside these scholars’ parents in forming their young hearts and minds. These little ones learn through modeling, personal experiences, and social interactions. Lessons about God, Jesus, Mother Mary, Saints, and more are prepared to assist these young scholars in experiencing how each individual is made in the image of God. Jesus said, “Let the children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19-13-15).

Pre-Kindergarten Through 8th Grade

As a Premier Member School of the Institute for Catholic Classic Liberal Education, Borromeo Academy looks to the teachings of the Church, which encourages scholars to be free thinkers, seeking truth, beauty, and goodness. Monthly virtues guide scholars to become their best version through character and emotional development. Along with the core subjects of History, Language Arts, Math, Science, and Religion, our Catholic Faith is referred to and interwoven throughout the day. Latin is introduced in Pre-Kindergarten, first with songs, stories, and prayers. As scholars continue, Latin is used to teach the origins and derivatives of words, which inspires higher-order thinking. “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). View

Borromeo Academy Class of 2023 Borromeo Academy Chargers Pride!

Congratualations 2023 Graduates!

Saint Charles Borromeo Academy was proud to honor and confer the 2023 Eighth Grade Graduates on May 11, 2023, during Mass at Saint Charles Borromeo Parish. We are extremely proud of all of them and look forward to their future aspirations.

Anything is possible when you just believe in God and in yourself. May the Lord bless your steps and watch over you and enable you to use your talents to the fullest. You will always be in our prayers.

Borromeo 2023 Graduates

Elaina Altenhofen (Saint Pius X High School), Erin Berg (Saint Teresa’s Academy) Santina Bonino (Saint Teresa’s Academy), Catherine Caldwell (Saint Pius X High School), Jacob Caylor (Saint Pius X High School), Iliana Chavez (North Kansas City High School), Angelina DiMaggio (Saint Pius X High School), Isabella Fugazzotto (North Kansas City High School), Gracie Hatcher (Saint Pius X High School), BellaAnn Luckmann (Saint Pius X High School), Brian Matta (Oak Park High School), Madison McCall (Saint Pius X High School), Trenton Metz (Saint Pius X High School), Lucia Miller (Liberty North High School), Sydney Mitchell (Saint Pius X High School), Tyson Nguyen (Rockhurst High School), Lucy Parr (Saint Pius X High School), Maxwell Poorman (Saint Pius X High School), Zachery Quintero (Saint Pius X High School), Grace Sanborn (Saint Pius X High School), Kaiden Shoemaker (Saint Pius X High School), Christian Smith (Saint Pius X High School), and Levi VanDyke (Saint Pius X High School).

Our Classical Model Faith And Service Opportunities

Borromeo Academy brings truth, beauty, and goodness to each scholar through the Catholic Liberal Arts tradition. As an authentically Catholic academy, we embrace the Holy See’s Teachings on Catholic Schools to be inspired by a supernatural vision, founded on a Christian Anthropology, animated by communion and community, imbued with a Catholic worldview throughout the curriculum, and sustained by the Gospel.

We are committed to forming children filled with the confidence and joy that they are loved by God and surrounded by the truth, beauty, and goodness of His creation.

Scholars study the contributions of Ancient Greece and Rome to the development of philosophy, politics, drama, and literature and explore ancient discoveries in mechanics, agriculture, and city development, which the Greeks and Romans continued to use to develop their societies.

Scholars continue to study the medieval world and the development of Christianity, exploring significant historical moments such as the Norse attacks and expansion in Europe, the Norman Conquest, the Crusades, the Magna Carta, and the Summa Theologiae of Thomas Aquinas.

Scholars study the literature and history of the early modern world from the expansion of European Colonialism through the modern era. Scholars dive into early American history, explore the great battles of the American Revolution, the speeches of Lincoln and Douglass, and continue through the industrial revolution to current times.

Each time period is repeated and presented at a developmentally appropriate level allowing teachers and scholars to progress through the curriculum while still allowing time to seek wonder through related literature, science, and math topics.

Classical Studies

Art and Art History, Catholic Faith and Life, Character Education, History and Geography, Language Arts, Latin, Math, Music and Music History, Nature Studies, Oratory, Physical Education, and Projects and Celebrations.

New Scholar Opportunities

Starting in the 2023-2024 school year, Borromeo Academy scholar opportunities will include a dedicated Reading and Curriculum Specialist, Elective Classes (middle school level), Maker Space with a 3D printer, afterschool clubs, and a School of Religion. A Foreign Language Club will also be offered to middle school scholars. They can learn three world languages (French, German, and Spanish).

Faith

Borromeo Academy is the largest ministry of Saint Charles Borromeo Parish. All scholars attend weekly Mass during the school year. Holy days of obligation are essential to our faith and education. Scholars also participate in various liturgical celebrations such as All Saints’ Day, Advent, Christmas, Reconciliation, Catholic Schools Week, Ash Wednesday, Lent, Stations of the Cross, Easter, First Communion, May Crowning, St. Joseph’s Table, Adoration, and Family Mass. Families are also expected to participate in Saint Charles Borromeo Parish weekend Masses and class-led Masses. There are many ways to become involved.

Service

Borromeo Academy continues to thrive through volunteer efforts from parents, scholars, and parishioners. Borromeo Academy will now utilize the app, x2VOL (www.x2vol.com), to keep track of volunteer hours. Through volunteering, parents and scholars have opportunities to strengthen friendships and develop a sense of ownership of our school. Service opportunities include activities such as Adult Readers, Events Coordinators, Coaching, Faith and Feast Gala, Garage Sale, Lunch and Recess Monitor, and Room Parent.

Mission And Vision

Mission

Partnering with parents in their role as primary educators, St. Charles Borromeo Academy extends the mission of the Church in forming true disciples of Jesus Christ. Through a Catholic Classical Liberal Arts education centered on Christ, we provide an integrated approach fostering a love for truth, beauty, and goodness. We seek to instill a natural desire for wisdom and virtue in all students.

Vision

~Borromeo Academy believes teachers and parents will guide the development of scholars to become independent and critical thinkers seeking truth, beauty, and goodness.

~Borromeo Academy believes in a Christ-centered environment rooted in our Catholic faith, which welcomes all and inspires a generation of servant leaders.

~Borromeo Academy believes in the uniqueness of each scholar made in the image of, and oriented toward, God.

~Borromeo Academy values the support of our families and parish community to help guide our scholars to act with honesty, integrity, and charity.

Activities And Sports

Scholars have the opportunity throughout the school year to participate in Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and various other approved clubs and special activities. Borromeo Academy also offers numerous scholar and family events throughout the school year, such as school dances, field trips, Blacklight Bingo, Trunk or Treat, Christmas Festival, Parking Lot parties, talent shows, and much more.

Sports participation is offered to both girls and boys during the Fall (Cross Country, Flag Football, and Volleyball), Winter (Basketball), and Spring (Track). All teams have the opportunity to compete regionally.

House System

Borromeo Academy uses a house system to help prepare scholars for a lifetime of discipleship. This system’s mission is to create a school community where scholars and parents work together and support each other as they grow in their Catholic faith. Scholars, Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade, and their families are assigned and remain in one of four houses at Borromeo Academy. The purpose of each house is to guide and support the academic, spiritual, social, and personal development of each scholar and their family while at Borromeo Academy.

All members of the each individual family will be assigned to the same house. This allows parents and scholars to build relationships with other scholars within their grade level and with those they may not interact with regularly. Each house is named after a chosen saint. The four houses are St. Francis of Assisi, St. John Bosco, St. Margaret Castello, and St. Katherine Drexel.

Faith and Feast Saint Charles Angels

Become A Saint Charles Angel

Can you be a Saint Charles Angel? Your one-time gift can sponsor a child in our school and support education costs at Borromeo Academy. The gifting levels available are Monthly ($600), 6-Month ($3,500), and Yearly ($7,000). To learn more or to sign up, please get in touch with Father Thomas at (816) 436-0880 or frsthomas@stcharleskc.com.

Thank you for being a Saint Charles Angel. Your gift will bring blessings to a scholar and their family. An Angel donation helps pave the way to a successful Catholic Classical education. Saint Charles Borromeo Academy and Parish are genuinely grateful for the generosity of our past and present Saint Charles Angels. Your support is a treasure that, for many years, brings hope to our children.

2022-2023 Saint Charles Angels

Mary Crider, Sherry Burns, Shoal Creek Associates, John and Cheryl Ehler, Christopher & Carolyn Ross, Joe and Mary Griggs, Louis and Laura Pollina, Frank & Lee Roos, Mary Ann Stark, Ken and Dianna Englander, McCullough Family Foundation, John and Becky Turner, Charles and Kathleen Wille, Larry and Kathleen Wilson, McGilley Antioch Chapel, Robert and Ada Frazier, Colleen Place, Bobby & Jean Vanderheiden, Anonymous, Joanne Tran, Steve and Kelly Dang, Mary Schrick, Hoa Vo, Steven and Maria Epperson, Mary Horning, Carolyn Volker, Frank and Eleanor Walberg, Norton & Katherine Rixey, Greg and Cindy Norris, Frank Glossip, Doris Meyer, George and Della Alleven, Jane Carella, Kenneth and Debbie Faust, Jeffrey and Jennifer Gray, Ian McConnell, Joe and Anne Monachino, Patti and Steve Pearson, Bill and Margie Stump, Terry and Beth Vaughan, Dave and Laura Peterson, Marsha Cockrum, Robert & Renee Denk, Cesar and Graciela Hinojosa, Chris and Carol Westerman, Aaron and Rita Zimmerman, Mary Closser, Robert & Sondra Keefe, and Floyd and Keri Gaddy.

Faith and Feast Gala

Faith and Feast is the annual celebration of our patron saint, Saint Charles Borromeo, and the signature fundraiser to support our school. This special gala is open to school and parish families and takes place on the first Saturday of November at Saint Charles Borromeo Academy gym from 5:30 to 9 pm.

Proceeds directly benefit Borromeo Academy for such things as scholarships, classroom needs and campus improvements. The event features dinner, cocktails, a silent and live auction, and live music and entertainment.

Advertising and sponsorship opportunities are available. The event sponsorships offer innovative ways for you and your business to be highlighted throughout the community. Registration is limited. You can learn more at faithandfeast.com.

Parent Teacher Organization

Parent Teacher Organization

The Borromeo Academy Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) consists of parent and staff volunteers who seek to strengthen, enhance, and encourage community among families and staff. The PTO provides additional financial support for school improvement projects and programs each year.

The primary goals of the PTO are to encourage parental involvement, assist teachers and staff, and to further develop the faith formation of the community through volunteer and financial support. To learn more, please get in touch with our current officers at pto@stcharleskc.com

Our Community Loves Us

"We visited St. Charles Borromeo Academy and Parish and knew it was the right place for our family and children. We noticed the change in our children immediately. They have grown spiritually, academically, and socially. They genuinely learn the values of faith, personal responsibility, and community contribution. If you need an environment where you want your children to bloom and prepare for the next stage of life, Borromeo Academy is the place."

~A. Campbell, parent

"

Parent Code of Conduct

Saint Charles Borromeo Academy recognizes parents as primary educators within the family. As such, we extend the mission of the academy’s code of conduct to include parents. Parents and staff will set the example of respect, open communication, and collaboration to embrace the mission of the Academy openly.

Parent Code of Conduct expectations are representative of, but not limited to, the following:

~Partner with the Borromeo Academy staff to support each scholar's social and academic needs.

~Attend and contribute to parent activities throughout the year to support the success of the Academy.

~Volunteer within the parish and school community when possible.

~Borromeo Academy parents who are registered a the Saint Charles Borromeo Parish should actively participate in weekend liturgies and support your scholar at the class-led Massess on weekends.

~Be an active member of the parish by sharing your time, talent, and treasure to provide the best formation for your scholar.

We intentionally chose a Catholic Education for our children. A Catholic education ensures that our children learn that Jesus Christ is the foundation, the beginning, and the end of all things. Our children learn (through the classical education model) to be curious and have thoughtful reasoning skills. I’ve watched my now First grader learn to read and comprehend literature and develop a love of learning. My Pre-K son has grown emotionally and is wellprepared for kindergarten. As an example, he was able to retain and reteach (by memory) to our family the stations of the cross that he was taught in class. Borromeo continues to exceed our expectations, and we couldn’t be happier!"

~M. Krohn, parent

Campus Improvements

In 2022, Borromeo Academy was enhanced with three significant improvements. These included the Rear Entrance Renovation ($275,950–shown at top), Early Childhood Center Outdoor Activity and Classroom Area ($353,881–shown at center), and the Early Childhood Center Entrance Renovation ($40,343–shown at bottom).

Both entrance projects enhance our scholar and staff safety, security, access, and weather protection. The Rear Entrance project also includes a new seat wall and outdoor patio area.

The Outdoor Activity and Classroom Area includes a play deck and playground area. This project provides an attractive and safe multi-purpose area for outdoor classroom learning, activities, and recreation.

Saint Charles Borromeo Academy

"We help students cultivate a sense of wonder and develop a genuine love for learning and serving."