school news
Windows on Saint Mary’s Spring 2010 Highlights
Spain Trip A blizzard on departure from the United States did little to dampen the spirits of the 36 lucky juniors and seniors who spent February break touring Spain. Arriving in Barcelona, the group toured Gaudi’s unfinished Sagrada Familia Cathedral as well as his extraordinary Parc Guell. After a stop at the Olympic Complex, free time was spent on Las Ramblas, a grand boulevard lined with cafes and boutiques, or visiting the Picasso Museum. Picasso’s Guernica, revealing the violence and pain of the Spanish Civil War, was a highlight to Jamie Chew ’10 who would rate the trip “a 10 out of 10. ” The high-speed AVE train whisked the group to Madrid where they were able to feast their eyes on the world-acclaimed art at the Prado, to sample tapas for lunch at the many restaurants, and to enjoy flamenco dancing. Side trips to Segovia and Toledo were also offered. Senior Cherie Ferby-Guy ’10 was most impressed by the architecture, noting the influence of various groups like the Romans, the Moors and the Jews. She added, “The food was also incredible.” Mock Trial With the help of Assistant District Attorney Anne Donnelly and her associate, Jeremy Glicksman, St. Mary’s Mock Trial Team made it into the “Sweet Sixteen” in Nassau County. Comprised of upper- and lowerclassmen, the team is coordinated by Mrs. Kathleen Spellman. For the 2009-10 school year, the New York State Bar Association formulated a complicated criminal case regarding derivatives and securities fraud, reminiscent of the Bernie Madoff case. Students were assigned roles such as lawyers and witnesses. After having put in many hours of hard work, the students were extremely proud of
having made it so far in competition with over 100 schools. Scholar Service Insitute Updates 36 members of the Class of 2013 were inducted to the Scholar Service Institute this year. The prestigious program encourages leadership, service and academic excellence. Requirements for participation include a 95% cumulative average or higher and a 90% maintained average. This year, three Scholars were finalists in the Diocesan Respect Life Competition and were recognized at a ceremony at Holy Trinity Diocesan High School. Paola Anteri ’12 was recognized for her essay. Erica Ventura ‘12 won first prize for a lovely bookmark design of mother and child and Juliette de Venoge ‘11 was given first prize in poetry, the third time in her life she has achieved this honor. Paola was also recognized for her essay writing skills in the “Freedom to Read” competition held by the Nassau County Library Association. She received a certificate and honorable mention for her essay on, Shug by Jenny Han. Classmates Grace Park ’12 and Young Min Park ’12 received honorable mentions for their artwork on, The Great Gatsby and Night. Columbia Journalism Workshop 31 journalism students attended the Columbia Scholastic Press Association Journalism Conference on Columbia’s campus in March. Students learned from national veteran journalism teachers many practical ideas that could be implemented immediately while also providing inspiration to bring The Magnificat, St. Mary’s newspaper, to new heights.
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Departing Faculty The St. Mary’s community extends its sincere gratitude and best wishes to Mrs. Diane Papa '58 and Mrs. Kathleen Spellman as they retire from St. Mary’s. Their dedication to education and commitment to students makes St. Mary’s a unique center of learning. Diane Papa began her career at St. Mary’s in 1979, and returned again in 1995. An alumna and a devoted educator, Mrs. Papa is truly dedicated to St. Mary’s and its mission. She mentored countless students through Math Regents and is a faculty favorite among alumni. After a combined 22 years of service, she says she is looking forward to travelling, reading, and enjoying her free time.
Diane Papa '58
Kathleen Spellman
Kathleen Spellman began her career at St. Mary’s in 1998. Mrs. Spellman was a dedicated social studies faculty member and the department chairperson. She also served as the passionate moderator of the Mock Trial team, leading the team to new levels of success. A devoted mother and grandmother, she is looking forward to spending more time with her family and her three beautiful grandchildren.