Inspiring Journeys. Empowered Futures. SheLeads Sessions are short, dynamic learning experiences created to spark curiosity, confidence, and purpose in our students. These non-transcripted opportunities invite guest facilitators to share the real stories behind their paths to excellence, including both their setbacks and successes. These learning sessions will help to foster the holistic development of each student, helping her to seek out new passions and begin to think about the possibilities in her future. In addition to career journeys, some sessions focus on engaging, relatable, and practical topics designed to empower our students in their daily lives—such as self-defense, business ethics, digital safety, or discovering personal strengths. Whether through story or skill, each session offers meaningful, relevant insight for young women growing in faith and purpose. Rooted in the IHM charism of creative hope, SheLeads encourages every girl to lead with integrity, resilience, and the confidence that she is deeply loved and called to make a difference.
Sign Up Process:
Look over our micro course offerings, check your personal schedules, talk with your parents, and/or trusted adults to find the sessions that best meet your interests, passions, and current needs. Individual sign up links will be sent 7 days prior to the start of a session with more details about how to register. Registration must be completed 3 days prior to that start of the course. Once registered the micro course instructor will communicate directly with interested students. Any questions or concerns please reach out to Ms. Harkins or Ms. Findeison. Visit vmahs.org/sheleads to register.
How to Read the Catalog
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Rug Making
Mrs. King I 9th-12th
December 2 and 4 I AME
If you loved making friendship bracelets as a kid, this is a microcourse you will love! Amish rug making is a simple but satisfying craft that allows you to create beautiful rugs using old sheets,pillowcases, t-shirts, …This craft not only allows you to repurpose old materials, but also provides a creative outlet for your artistic skills. All materials will be provided.
Title of Course
Course Information
Course Description
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Rug Making
Mrs. King I 9th-12th
December 2 and 4 I AME
If you loved making friendship bracelets as a kid, this is a microcourse you will love! Amish rug making is a simple but satisfying craft that allows you to create beautiful rugs using old sheets,pillowcases, t-shirts, …This craft not only allows you to repurpose old materials, but also provides a creative outlet for your artistic skills. All materials will be provided.
Root to Rise: Yoga Basic Principles
Ms. Crawford I 9th-12th
January 6, 8, and 23 I AME
Welcome to “Root to Rise” our beginner’s yoga course. This program is designed for anyone new to yoga, regardless of flexibility, fitness level, or experience. Over the next few weeks, we will gently introduce you to the fundamental principles of yoga. We will focus on Basic Poses, Mindful Breathing, and flow. This course is welcoming space to start your yoga journey. The goal is to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to build a sustainable practice that brings you greater peace, flexibility, and strength—both on and off the mat.
The Mind-Body Connection: Training Your Brain for Peak Performance
Theresa Giunta I 9th-12th
January 8, February 12, March 20, April 9, May 5
Learn from a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) how to train your mind for optimal performance. This workshop teaches evidence-based tools to build self-awareness, identify mental barriers, and develop consistent, sustainable routines. Discover how aligning your mind and body enhances focus, resilience, and results, helping student-athletes thrive both in the classroom and on the field.
Bullet Journaling How-To
Mrs. King I 11th and 12th
January 22, 29, and February 12 I AME
Are you feeling overwhelmed with all of the things you need to complete? Do you have Postits everywhere as reminders? Are you always thinking there is something you are forgetting? If yes, this is the microcourse for you. This 3 session course will teach you the popular Bullet Journal Method devised by Ryder Carroll. A Bullet Journal is a personal organization system (think student planner) that organizes scheduling, reminders, to-do lists, brainstorming, and tasks into a single notebook. All materials will be provided.
Power Women in Local Leadership
Mrs. Scaggs, Gina Lizzo, Laura Manion, & Tracy Davidson 9th-12th and Faculty/Staff
January 22, February 5 and 27 I AME
Ready to lead with purpose and confidence? Join our Power Women in Local Leadership course, guided by inspiring leaders like Gina Lizzo, Managing Editor of Main Line Today; Laura Manion, President and CEO of Chester County Chamber of Commerce; and Tracy Davidson, 14x
Emmy-winning journalist and motivational speaker. Learn from the best and take your leadership skills to the next level!
Coloring as a Path to Mindfulness
Sister Stephen Anne 9th-12th and Faculty/Staff
February 3, 9, 17, and 19
Don’t miss the moment!
Experience coloring as a path to mindfulness! Want to easily strengthen your personal abilities to focus and pay attention in the present movement? Want to stay calm and make discerning decisions that lead to a better you? Did you ever think of coloring as a way to pray? Try coloring!
Prepping for Performing Arts College Admissions:
What? When? How?
Mr. Cucinella, Ms. Christie, and Mrs. Lindsay Miller
9th-10th - 2 Sessions
11th - 4 Sessions
February 17, 19, 26, March 9, 12, 26 I FLEX
This course will give sophomores and juniors the information needed to feel prepared to apply for college admissions with a performing arts focus whether that is a major, or looking to minor. Using the Creative Hope of the IHM charism to inspire our young performers to continue following their dreams beyond high school and empowering them to take the risk and jump “all in” to a college path that makes them feel most fulfilled.
Introduction to Watercolor
Mrs. Bacastow I 9th-12th
February 17, 19 and March 6, 9 I AME
During this workshop, students will learn basic watercolor techniques and learn to paint a simple watercolor landscape. This course is intentionally designed for students who are not currently enrolled in an art course to provide an opportunity to learn a new skill or provide some practice time. This is a beginner friendly course and all are welcome!
An Introduction to Careers in Psychology
Ms. Findeison I 9th-12th
February 17 I AME
Are you the friend everyone goes to for help? Do you receive compliments on the good advice you give? Have you considered majoring in psychology? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, come learn with us about different careers in psychology. We will discuss what it looks like to be a psych major, how to make the most of your college experience, and what career pathways are available to you.
Media and New Literacy
Ms. Nelson I 9th-12th
February 26 I AME
Information overload is real! It is a loud and confusing world online and on socials. How can we start to take control of our life online and make sense of all the noise? Let’s talk about why we listen to certain people and try to understand what they are really saying.
Have the Best Summer of Your Life Working as a Sleepaway Camp Counselor!
Mrs. Black I 11th and 12th
March 2 I PME
Do you like working with children? Do you want to have the best summer of your life and make friends from all over the world? In this one-session course, you will learn all about what it’s like to work as a camp counselor at a sleepaway camp! You will hear about the day-today life of a counselor, as well as the positive impact you can have on the lives of the campers you spend your summer with. You will also get to ask questions from a camp representative. This course and experience would be great for anyone interested in education or working with children.
Bloom Where You are Planted
Mrs. Venezia & Mr. Magness I 12th
March 3 I AME
Moving away to a new dorm can be thrilling, but sometimes that small, unfamiliar space can feel
a little sterile. In this microcourse, “Bloom Where You are Planted,” you will learn the important role of plants in your environment while gaining the confidence to create your personal sanctuary.
Continuing the SisterhoodNPC Sorority Recruitment
Ms. Henderson I 12th
March 6 I AME
You have experienced the “Villa Sisterhood” so have you considered continuing those bonds of sisterhood by joining a sorority in college? It’s quite the adventure but Mrs. Henderson has information to share that might be helpful as you look to navigate the process.
Vision Boards 2026
Mrs. Brown I 11th and 12th March 9 and 12 I AME
If you can envision it, you can do it. A vision board is a magnet for positivity and building dreams. Come learn about the power of manifestation and create a vision for your future.
Research in Marine Biology with Dr. Jill Ashley
Jill Ashley, PhD & Ms. Findeison
9th-12th I March 10 I AME
Welcome to Research in Marine Biology, a micro course presented by Jill Ashley, PhD. Jill will introduce you to what it is like to be a working marine biologist. Jill is currently a researcher at University of Pennsylvania and studies coral physiology and genetics. Jill travels globally to field sites to conduct her research and has many stories to share. Jill will talk about her career journey, what a day in the life looks like, and about her research
Intro to the Physician Assistant Field
Mr. Tyler Millhouse I 11th and 12th March 26 I AME
Are you junior or senior interested in the Physician Assistant field or the requirements to get into Physician Assistant school? Then join this mini session to learn a little more about the field. You will learn what a Physician Assistant (also known as PA) is and what makes it different from similar occupations, such as a physician, nurse practitioner, or nurse. You will also learn what steps and classes you should take while completing your undergraduate degree to get into PA school, along with other prerequisites. Finally, you will learn about
the wide range of specialties available in this career and the flexibility to move between them. Reserve your spot today and take the first step toward a rewarding career as a Physician Assistant!
Money Moves: The Basics of Finance for Life After High School
Mrs. Brown I 11th and 12th
April 7 and 9 I AME
You have plans for your future, but how will you pay for it? In this mini course, you will learn the basics about personal finance to make life easier as you grow.
Prompt Party: You are in charge of the chat!
Mrs. Schweitzer I 9th-12th
April 7, 9, 20, and 21 AME and PME
Learn to work with AI tools instead of the AI tools working for you. In this 4 session handson course, you will learn about what AI can and cannot do. You will learn how to craft strong prompts/commands that will improve the quality of results that you get from chatbots. You will begin to recognize that the output chatbots provide sometimes contains bias and perspectives that you need to be aware of. Most importantly, you will apply the prompting skills you learn to use AI tools creatively and responsibly.
Journalism: the good, the bad, and the ugly
Ms. Nelson I 9th-12th
April 20 I PME
What do the Revolutionary War, women’s rights, corporate reform, and understanding 9/11, and criminal activity in the White House all have in common? They are all parts of American history that have been shaped, for better or worse, by the news media. Let’s take a critical look at our 4th estate – the Press.
A Career in News Media: Perspectives
from Victoria Coughlan
Mr. Borosky and Victoria Coughlan 9th-12th and Faculty/Staff
April 21 I PME
What’s it like to make the news? Not appear on the news– to produce it? In this microcourse, Victoria Coughlan, Senior Manager of Broadcast Operations at CBS news, will chare her perspective and experiences working for one of the world’s largest leading (and largest) news sources. Ms. Coughlan will reflect on what it takes to manage other professionals, to balance work and life outside work, and to keep CBS a trusted voice in a changing information landscape. We’ll learn about what goes into producing the news each day and how the industry has evolved during Ms. Coughlan’s career. She is currently based in Washington, D.C.
Science Fiction!!
Ms. Nelson 9th-12th
May 4 I AME
It doesn’t matter whether you read or watch science fiction, let’s talk about what you love and why!
Finding Your Purpose
Mr. Zampogna and John Cassidy 9th-12th I May 5 I AME
We will explore how each of us are unique in different ways and which talents each student can bring to the world. We will examine finding what you love and are passionate about, how that might fit into something the world news AND how you can make a living doing it.
Business Ethics
Mrs. Bowker & Mrs. Pixley I 9th-12th
Attendance to all Sessions is required in order to compete and adequately prepare. December/ February and March/April. 4-7 sessions dates set in advance of competitions; reach out directly to Mrs. Bowker and Mrs. Pixley for details.
What if you could argue your way through real business dilemmas-no experience required. Business Ethics
Microcourse is a short-term, high impact opportunity open to ALL GRADES where you’ll tackle tough decisions, learn to balance profit with principles, and present your solutions in front of a live audience. You’ll meet students from across local Catholic high schools, sharpen your critical thinking, and compete on a weekend date that puts your skills to the test. No business background? No problem! Just bring your voice, your ideas, and a willingness to challenge yourself- this is your chance to try something completely new.
Game Changers
Sister Tracey Uphoff 9th-12th and Faculty/Staff
We will learn a new card or board game for the first session of the month and practice and play it during the second session of the month. If you miss the first session, please feel free to come to the second session. No prerequisites or attendance requirements.
December 9 (PME), December 16 (after school), January 6 (after school), January 22 (after school), February 3 (PME), February 19 (after school), March 10 (PME), March 24 (after school), April 13 (PME), April 23 (after school), May 7 (PME), May 19 (after school)
Step away from the screens and rediscover the joy of play! Game Changers invites students to master timeless card and board games that bring family and friends together. Whether you’re strategizing in Yahtzee or bluffing in a friendly round of cards, this course is all about learning, laughing, and building community—one game at a time.
Cursive Handwriting
Mrs. Paolantonio I 9th-12th Ongoing I Reach out directly to Mrs. Palantonio if interested.
Can you sign your name? Can you read a letter from your grandmother in cursive? Come and learn how! Practice sessions are offered weekly at a flex. Come to as many or as few sessions as suit you. At least learn how to sign your name!
