Blue & Gold Spring 2019

Blue&Gold Spring 2019

Oh The Thinks You Can Think

at Waldron Mercy Academy!

We may have thought it was impressive then, but it sure looks old now! A side-by-side look at how technology has changed in the world, and in Waldron Mercy classrooms, in the past few decades.

Then&Now VER ON THE CO

s d Stripe Stars an presents Theatre al KIDS! Seussic ore Read m e about th ance perform 7. on page

Spring 2019

INTHIS ISSUE DEPARTMENTS

WALDRON MERCY ACADEMY, A CATHOLIC SCHOOL SPONSORED

BY THE SISTERS OF MERCY, IS A DIVERSE, FAITH COMMUNITY ROOTED IN THE GOSPEL VALUES OF MERCY AND JUSTICE. WE ARE A SCHOOL WHERE THE JOY OF DISCOVERY INSPIRES SERIOUS STUDY, SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND STRONG FAITH.

FEATURE

2 From the Principal 4 Joy of Discovery 6 Happening on Campus 8 The Power of Mercy 10

Families of Waldron 14 Newsworthy

12 Beyond the Blackboard: A Look at WMA’s Interactive Classrooms Though always ahead of the curve, the Waldron Mercy classroom has become even more interactive as students learn skills that can be applied directly to the real world. Take an inside look at our cutting edge STEM and technology programs.

facebook.com/WaldronMercyAcademy facebook.com/AlumniatWaldronMercy Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/WaldronMercy Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/waldronmercy Join us on LinkedIn: Search groups for “Waldron Mercy Alumni” or “Waldron Mercy Academy Parents and Friends”

Volume 14, Issue 2 Blue & Gold is published twice a year by the Marketing and Communications Office for the alumni, parents and friends of Waldron Mercy Academy.

CONTRIBUTORS:

PHOTOGRAPHY:

DESIGN:

Marguerite Flynn Suzanne Gallagher Carolyn Leonard Karen McGinley

Suzanne Gallagher Lawrence Hopkins Carolyn Leonard Karen McGinley Meghan Millard

AcquireVisual.com

From the Principal ducation looks different today than it did when you and I were in school. Experiencing how the classroom has changed in my time as an educator, I am excited to be part of such a progressive learning environment. Interactive learning is a handson approach to help students become more engaged and retain more material.

I see this interactive learning happening every day as I walk WMA’s halls. Inside this issue, you too will see many of the ways our students are playing an active role in their education. At Waldron Mercy, we are integrating technology and STEM projects into reading and math lessons!

Our feature article, Beyond the Blackboard, helps you understand the current experience of a WMA student and how the classroom has evolved to meet the needs of our changing world. Our focus is to teach our students to be problem solvers and critical thinkers who are able to articulate and defend their positions, all within the spirit of Mercy. This is what will set them apart as they move through WMA, high school, and beyond.

As you will read about in these pages, hands-on learning goes beyond the classroom walls at Waldron Mercy. Not only are our current students taking part in our robust athletics and arts offerings, our alumni continue to help drive the success of these programs.

The extensive extracurricular activities offered to our students provide additional ways for them to build on their learning beyond the classroom through team work

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and leadership. This will make them a well-rounded student, ready to take on new challenges as they grow.

In our Happening on Campus section, you can see how our young alumni are dedicated to helping our current students succeed. Over the past school year, I have been encouraged by so many alumni stopping back to visit us. Our Legacy photo speaks to the number of alumni who have chosen the same Mercy experience for their own children.

Since Mercy is truly a part of our name, I am especially proud to highlight all that is happening as it relates to our theme “Alleluia! Color Our Lives with Mercy!” You’ll learn how our students and faculty have incorporated non-violence, one of the Sisters of Mercy’s critical concerns, into their specific classrooms. You’ll read about all the parents, alumni, and WMA friends who work every day to color our lives with Mercy.

You are always welcome at Waldron Mercy to walk the halls, catch up with an old teacher, or just to stop in and check out all the amazing things our students are doing on campus. Come and be inspired by the “thinks you can think!”

MERCY THEME IN ACTION

Kindergartner Donovan Schmidt and eighth grader Marcus Miller work on the Mercy theme bulletin board.

Second and sixth grade worked on this bulletin board as part of their reflection on the color red, representing non-violence through love.

Alex Cooper and Sophie Munch make a bird feeder that was hung on campus.

As introduced in the Fall 2018 Blue and Gold, the Mercy theme this year is “Alleluia! Color Our Lives with Mercy!” It focuses on non-violence, one of the Sisters of Mercy’s critical concerns. Throughout the year, schoolwide prayers and retreats were built on this theme.

Additionally, grade partners together reflected on a different color, created a themed bulletin board, and presented their reflections at Community Gathering. Here is a look at how the grade levels explored the theme throughout the year.

Kindergarten and eighth grade focused on the color blue. To them, blue was about being “true blue” to each other and the rest of the world.

First and fifth grades focused on the color green and how it represents nonviolence through caring for the earth. The students worked together to make bird feeders to help Color the Earth with Mercy. The bird feeders were hung around campus.

Second and sixth grades focused on the color red, which to them represents nonviolence through love. The grades read In My Heart by Jo Witek together and talked about how they can use the power of love to overcome negative feelings, such as anger and hurt.

Third grade read The Juice Box Bully. The teacher discussed with their students the importance of finding peace and nonviolence, just as the characters did in the book. The grade discussed that violence makes them think of the color red, black or deep dark colors, and nonviolence makes them think of bright, fun lighter colors like purple, pink, blues, and yellows. During community gathering, the students shared reasons why we need to show peace and nonviolence throughout WMA and in the community.

Seventh grade reflected on the color purple and how it symbolizes the royalty of Jesus, the Prince of Peace. They talked about how, as students of Mercy, they work towards peace at school, at home, and in their communities.

Fourth grade and their pre-kindergarten little buddies are the last group that will present at Community Gathering. They plan to reflect on all the colors the grade pairings covered throughout the year as they quilt together the bulletin boards each group created.

Religion teacher Kim Trinacria leads prayer for one of her seventh grade classes.

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JOY OF DISCOVERY

“A good beginning is of great importance” VENERABLE CATHERINE MCAULEY

WMA classrooms are filled with students who are exploring new ideas, reaching new heights, and achieving academic success.

Et Tu, WMA? aldron Mercy Academy teachers are always looking for ways to give students a greater appreciation of the subjects they are studying. This fall, Language Arts teacher Katie DeSanto invited David Pica, an actor from the Philadelphia Shakespeare Theater, to speak to her eighth graders. The goal was to deepen the students’ knowledge

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and understanding of the play Julius Caesar, and to allow them to gain a confidence in the Shakespearean language.

The eighth grade language arts curriculum focuses on the themes of power, relationship, and identity. Pica, who trained at the Royal Conservatory of Scotland, helped the students think through those ideas as the

characters would. He then taught the students how to express the themes through acting. He explained the importance of body language, tone, and volume in Shakespearean performances.

“It was a really great experience,” said Caroline Riley. “It was clear he was an expert and knew a lot about the history. He really showed us how to interpret what Shakespeare wrote and what the characters would be thinking and their expressions and actions.”

“Mr. Pica really gave us a new perspective on Julius Caesar,” recalled Billy Ross.

The acting lesson was the culmination of a unit on Shakespeare that also included students acting out the playwright’s works using an augmented reality game under development. Learn more about how our students were able to test drive this educational video game on page 12.

Top: Actor David Pica instructs a group of eighth grade students. Left: from left to right: Caroline Riley, Luke Gallagher, Jada McKelvey, and Mia Colucci act out Act 2, Scene 1 of Julius Caesar.

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Hotel? Animal Cell? What’s the Connection? he next time our WMA students travel, you might hear them compare their hotel to an animal or plant cell. Our teachers strive to teach to a variety of learning styles.

Some learn better out of a textbook; some need to get their hands dirty. In seventh grade, Samdai Stricklan uses comparisons to enhance her students’ understanding.

At the conclusion of a unit on plant and animals structures this fall, students were told to research the component parts of either a plant or an animal cell. The students then compared the various cell components to

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components of real world scenarios that they could understand, including restaurants, hospitals and hotels.

Katie Leahy and Jack Dever compared animal cell parts to the inner workings of a hotel and presented their project at our weekly Community Gathering. For example, they compared mitochondria (the powerhouse of the cell) to a hotel’s electrical panel; lysosomes (which break down bacteria, food, and old organelles) to housekeeping; and vacuoles (which store water, food, and other materials) to hotel closets.

“It helped me to understand the cell parts jobs better by comparing them to something else that I understood more,” Jack reflected.

Katie Leahy and Jack Dever present to the class.

4th Grade Wall Street he fourth grade students will be stock market whizzes by the end of this year!

They each “purchased” around $10,000 worth of shares from companies, including Nike, McDonald’s, Apple, and Target. The

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students monitor their stocks every few months and keep track of profits and losses.

Students can “buy” or “sell” shares as needed.

“It’s really fun to learn about how companies’ profits go up and down,”

Michael Stauffer said about the project.

Math teacher Bonnie Guarini says the point of the project is to teach percentages in a fun way while clearing up some of the mysteries around the stock market, something the students usually only vaguely understand.

“We learned that stocks are always, always changing. Before this, I thought the prices only changed every year or month,” said Annalise DeAngelis.

By the end of the year, each student is challenged to make a profit of at least one dollar more than they spent on the shares.

Far Left: Bonnie Guarini helps Ryan Connaughton and Chloe Ball review their stocks.

Left: Lily Colucci logs her stock changes.

ALUMNI SUCCESS STARTS HERE Jonathan Paras ’10, a 2014 graduate of The Haverford School, attained a B.S. in Material Science and Engineering from M.I.T. in 2018. According to Jonathan, the education he received at WMA prepared him well. “Even as a young student, I remember how adept Mrs. Meyer was in designing experiments that were understandable and sparked my interest in science. Taking an extracurricular chemistry class she conducted also kept me engaged and curious.” A member of the forensics team, Jonathan credits Ms. Flanagan with equipping her students with the skills to “convince other people that your ideas are important.”

Obviously very bright - Jonathan received special recognition for his significant contributions to the intellectual life at The Haverford School he is not above mentioning his removal from Advanced Math class while at WMA because his teachers recognized it was not the best fit for him. “I would encourage parents to trust the educators when considering what is best for their child. It’s about the right educational fit. If a student is overwhelmed, he or she will not succeed in that class.”

Back at M.I.T., Jonathan plans to matriculate into a PhD program and continue his research into discovering how lightweight materials can be made more structurally strong.

We wish Jonathan continued success in his eagerness to learn.

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HAPPENING ON CAMPUS

“We must strive to do ordinary things extraordinarily well.”

VENERABLE CATHERINE MCAULEY

WMA students showcase their talents outside the classroom through a full range of extra-curricular and co-curricular activities.

What If?

Above Left: Author Mo O’Hara acts out a story that inspired her novels. Above Right: Giuliana Mele watches as Cristiano Forcina gives his best evil villain laugh, portraying one of O’Hara’s characters.

rom video conferences to in-person discussions, students across all grades had the opportunity to discuss books and writing with authors this year. One author who visited WMA in person was Mo O’Hara, the author of the popular series My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish.

She challenged the third and fourth graders with the most important question an author can ask themselves: what if?

The students couldn’t stop laughing while she acted out stories from her childhood that served as inspiration for her novels. The laugh-

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ter continued as students had the opportunity to dress up and act like some of the characters from O’Hara’s books.

“Watching the acting was my favorite part,” said third grader Ernest Stanton. “It was fun and amazing. I am going to read her books now.”

Far left: Ailey Allen and Chase Diggs Rogers look at each other’s books. Left: Dylan Donaldson, Suriya Shah, and Chase Burks sign books. Below: Colin Cahill reads his story to the class.

My Second Grade Me he most enthusiastic authors on campus this year were our very own second graders!

Teachers, staff, and parent volunteers helped our students get excited about writing and inspired their best efforts in the creation of collaborative books called My Second Grade Me. Each class wrote and illustrated

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the contents of a book, which was professionally bound.

The students’ faces lit up when the finished product was revealed. “I like seeing my writing in a real book,” commented Chase Burks.

These young authors also got the chance to participate in a special book signing event.

“It is great that we could sign each others’

books.

When I miss my friends I can look in my book and remember them,” said Stella Scavuzzo.

Copies of the books can be checked out from our Perry Library.

Once a Tiger Always a Tiger his year – and every year – our sports successes can be credited in part to the coaches, who spend so much time molding our students into the best athletes they can be.

Many of those coaches are former WMA students themselves! This fall, David Brown ’08 and Jalal Timmons ’08 were on the field with the JV football team; Catherine Rissover ’92 was in charge of the instructional field hockey team, and Stephanie Williams ’11 coached volleyball.

“Coaching at WMA is a privilege I will get to carry in my life forever. As an alumnus, I have a feeling of completeness from leading and contributing to some of the recent athletic success Waldron Mercy Academy has experienced,” said Brown.

“I want to personally thank the WMA community and the families who have accepted me and trusted me to guide their children throughout their athletic exploits.”

We are so proud to see students who excelled on our fields now succeeding in high

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school sports and beyond. They brought with them to high school the technical and sportsmanship skills they were taught while on our campus.

Some of our recent grads who are contributing noteworthy performances to their high schools include Marcus Curvan ’15, a track and field runner at La Salle College High School, who contributed to his team’s 3rd place finish at the Pennsylvania Track and Field Coaches Association Indoor State Championship this year; Lauren Anderson ’18, who made varsity soccer as a freshman at Penn Charter; her brother, Jess Anderson ’16 competes in multiple sports at Penn Charter and finished 3rd at the Pennsylvania Independent Schools Wrestling Tournament this year; Lauryn Redcross ’18, a freshman at Shipley, made the varsity basketball team; Jimmy King ’17 made varsity baseball as a freshman last year at St. Joe’s Prep and competed on the varsity basketball team this year.

Above: Jimmy King ’17 receives a pass while playing for St. Joe's Prep. Above, right: Lauren Anderson ’18 made the Penn Charter varsity soccer team as a freshman in the fall. Right: Coaches David Brown ’08 and Jalal Timmons ’08 stand with members of the JV football team after winning the Homecoming game.

A Person’s a Person... tars and Stripes Theatre put on a beautiful rendition of Seussical KIDS this year! The performance transported the audience to the world of Dr. Seuss, weaving characters, stories, and settings from his books into one fantastical show.

The show included three versions of the infamous Cat in the Hat, one of which was played by third grader Benny Bergman-Miller.

This was his second year in the show and

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his first time in a lead role.

“It was fun, exciting, and challenging,” he said about taking on his role.

The show ran for three nights with a fantastic turnout: more than 1,000 tickets were sold and the Dixon Gym was at near capacity every night. The musical is a highlight of the students’ spring, allowing them to shine outside of music classes and apart from the middle school students.

Seussical was last performed on campus in 2005. At that time, there was a singular school-wide musical. Due to the popularity of our musical theatre program, second through fourth graders participate in the Stars and Stripes show while the older students take

Tigers Take the Field We had many future high school stars participate in our fall sports this year! The fields were packed with students: 38 played soccer, 34 ran cross country, 13 played volleyball, 26 participated in instructional field hockey, and 14 played football. If you have a moment, come see our athletes in action!

Left: Harper Sylva dances as part of the Seussical Kids show. Left, bottom: Cats in the Hat Alexandra Ratner, Jamie Thornburg, and Benny Bergman-Miller surround JoJo the Who, played by Ciaran McGahey. Below: Horton (Eli Borton) sits atop a nest, constructed by alumnae and current parent Dave DeAngelis ’91.

part in the Spring Musical. This year, almost two-thirds of our second through fourth graders participated in Seussical, learning “a person’s a person no matter how small.”

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POWER OF MERCY

“The poor need help today, not next week.”

VENERABLE CATHERINE MCAULEY

Catherine’s spirit of outreach and service that was instilled in our students here continues throughout high school, college, and beyond.

Service Learning from the Start T

he network of outreach partners and the service learning program at Waldron Mercy Academy would not be what it is today without the help and support of past parents and faculty. Kate Farrell is one of the many who have been involved in outreach since the boys’ and girls’ schools merged in the late 1980s.

“The Mercy spirit was part of the attraction of Waldron,” Kate said.

Mother of Andrew ’95, Bridget ’97, and Michael ’99, Kate was one of the original members of the Mercy Outreach Committee (a sub-committee of the Parent Teacher Cooperative, the former Parents’ Association). The Mercy Outreach Committee helped identify and organize the bulk of the outreach experiences at the time.

“The philosophy of the Mercy Outreach Committee was, as much as possible, to help the students as well as their parents and teachers feel a relationship not based on the needs of others, but shared human connection,” Kate explained.

The group connected WMA to many organizations that the students continue to serve today, including St. Columba’s, and the organization now known as Mercy Neighborhood Ministries.

Kate and her family were not only the brain power behind some of the outreach opportunities; they were also involved directly in the work. They made meals for the monthly dinners at St. Columba, helped the homeless make cards for loved ones, and more. Kate’s husband, Doug, “One of the great helped organize a group of things about the outreach fathers who would sing experience is meeting the Christmas carols during the St. Columba Christmas meal.

Waldron families that you “One of the great things didn’t have other things in about the outreach experience common with.” is meeting the Waldron families that you didn’t have other things As part of the group, Kate came up with in common with,” said Kate. “Maybe their kids the idea for each grade to have a designated did sports and yours didn’t, or they had kids outreach partner that they could work with in a different grade. Outreach strengthened throughout the year. This system continues the Waldron community. I have nice, warm to be an integral part of the WMA service memories of people I only knew outside of learning program today. the school.”

“It seemed to make more sense for the Kate says the spirit of Mercy continues to teachers,” Kate explained. “The teachers could influence how her kids see the world. “They form a relationship with a specific partner and are all successful but most importantly have might be able to come up with their own great empathy for others, regardless of their creative ideas for outreach.” positions.”

Little Library e are so proud of our students who take what they learn about service and outreach at WMA and apply it off campus. One of those students is fourth grader Allyson Gondek.

Inspired by an assignment in her religion class to do an outreach project that helped the environment, Allyson decided to start a Little Free Library.

Little Free Libraries are collections of books open to the public. People can take a book to read or leave a book to share. Many Little Free Libraries are outside: freestanding, covered bookshelves, often in the shape of a house. Others, like Allyson’s, are standard bookshelves housed inside public buildings.

“My project will help save trees because books can get shared instead of people buying new ones,” said Allyson.

The Little Free Library is now up and run-

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ning out of Marian Anderson Recreation Center in the Graduate Hospital area of Philadelphia. The center operates an after school program for disadvantaged children.

“I wanted the kids to have more books,” Allyson explained.

At first, Allyson only had 80 books in her library. She put in a request to her fellow WMA students and donations flooded in.

Allyson ended up with 770 books – more than enough to fill the shelves.

“We just want to make sure that the Waldron community is thanked,” said Emily Gondek, Allyson’s mom. “She couldn't have done it without all of their support!”

Allyson donated the overflow books to the Jacoby Book Bank (an organization run by Philadelphia READS), which provides books to teachers and the community.

Allyson Gondek stands with her Little Free Library at Marian Anderson Recreation Center. Many of the books were donated by WMA students.

Community Impact he Waldron Mercy Academy community truly exemplifies the Mercy mission and as usual, our students and their parents provided a tremendous amount of support to our outreach partners this year! See how far your hard work went with a look at the results of our three biggest community outreach events:

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Thanksgiving Meal Drive: Thanks to the generous donations from each grade, we were able to provide 148 complete Thanksgiving meals to our outreach partners!

Volunteers delivered baskets full of turkeys, pies, and side dishes to Mercy Neighborhood Ministries, St. Katherine’s, Project HOME, and Catholic Worker for distribution to those in need.

The Giving Tree: Another Christmas, another outpouring of support to the Giving Tree!

Donated gifts filled the front vestibule and spilled out from the Christmas tree in the front hallway. Thanks to the generosity of the WMA community, Christ mas wishes came true by providing more than 300 gifts to six of our partners.

Left: Eighth graders Maya Ross, Caroline Riley, and Marcellus Hopkins organize the Thanksgiving Meal Drive.

Center: A car overflows with presents donated to the Giving Tree. Right: Students show off pillows they created.

All pillowcases were donated to the Philadelphia chapter of Ryan's Case for Smiles.

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day of Service: The Perry Library was bustling with activity on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Sewing machines whirred as students and their families sewed 75 pillow cases that were donated to local hospitals through the Philadelphia chapter of Ryan’s Case for Smiles, an organization devoted to making hospitalized children feel special while battling life changing illness.

The group also crafted 10 no-sew blankets for patients at Lankenau Cancer Center.

Beyond our Walls atalie Holstein ’14 Andrew Stetser ’11 Kelly King ’14 and John Kuyat ’11 took the Mercy spirit is one of five people who took part in a Fordham University initiative Andrew with her to college. The take on the role of called Global Outreach. They visited Villanova University Hooter, the Temple Rutledge, Tennessee for freshman is involved in Owl. He recently made an a week with 10 other NOVAdance, an organizaappearance at HootaThon to the delight Fordham students tion that fights childhood of the kids! HootaThon is an annual and engaged in cancer by fundraising for various service Natalie dance marathon that raises money for the Andrew McDonough CHOP. Andrew has also been opportunities such B+ (Be Positive) Foundation. instrumental in raising funds for as painting, raking Kelly & John “I am passionate about it because HootaThon. leaves, building, Katie Delaney Price ’02, I believe that every child deserves to live and visiting a nursa childcare specialist at happily and healthily, and families should be ing home. They also CHOP, took part in 2019 able to focus on their children rather than had the opportunity to immerse Philly Spin-In benefitting worry about expensive medical bills,” Natalie themselves in the local culture by Katie CHOP’s Cardiac Center. explained. Help her fundraising efforts by going to a pottery shop, attending a The Spin-In raised $516,000 in visiting novadance.org.

Baptist Church service, and hiking.

Jade Killion ’14, total, which will go towards life“This was such an eye-opening experience in worked with her saving research and innovation. which I stood in solidarity with both my sorority, Alpha Chi Similarly, Kelly McKelvey ’00, group and the community in which we daughter of 2nd grade teacher Omega at Clemson lived for one week,” Kelly said about Angela McKelvey, took part in University, to raise her experience.

Cycle of Survival in New York money and awareCity. Her team raised $3,800 ness for those affectJade towards fighting rare cancers. ed by domestic Kelly violence.

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Families of Each WMA family, no matter how big or small, brings a unique value to our school and has been a part of making WMA what we are today. This overwhelming sense of community lives within WMA, in fact it is not uncommon for multiple generations to walk the halls of WMA together.

The contributions of our families’ time, talents, and resources are generous and greatly appreciated; even more importantly, the presence of each family adds to the blessings of the circle of Mercy here at WMA. We’d like to introduce you to a few of our families...

Gallagher Last issue we introduced you to the Gallagher family made up of alums… now meet a family of current Gallaghers! Suzanne and Dan knew when they sent sons Jack and Luke to Waldron in first grade they had found a special place. Since then their family has grown and Quinn and Reece have now joined them at WMA. When asked what the most special part of WMA is to them, Dan responded, “the diversity and exposure the boys receive to the world around them. From our family participation at St. Columba’s to a robust outreach program in every grade, we are grateful for the opportunities they receive to be a part of the greater good.” Suzanne added, “Waldron really does educate our entire family in the spirit of Catherine McAuley and we value the partnership we have with WMA helping our sons become the leaders of tomorrow.” Jack and Luke will start high school at St. Joe’s Prep in the fall.

Hodges Another of our outstanding families are the Hodges! After graduating WMA, the three Hodges children continue to excel academically.

Nile ’11 was recently inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. He is the president of his fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha, Beta Chapter, maintaining a 4.0 GPA. Nile will be graduating from Howard University in May and returning to Philadelphia to attend Dental School at Temple University!

Paige ’12 is a Junior Biology major, maintaining a 4.0 GPA at Howard University. She recently won an award for her research at the 2019 Emerging Researchers National Conference in STEM. She will be conducting research this summer in the graduate Department of Botany at the University of California, San Francisco.

Pierce ’15 is currently a senior at the William Penn Charter School and recently founded and co-chaired the first annual Cheryl Irving Diversity Conference, an effort to empower young leaders to be ambassadors for community building and social justice.

Pierce plans to attend Howard University this Fall as a 2019 HU Leadership Scholar.

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Waldron

“The Tender Mercy of God has given us one another.”

VENERABLE CATHERINE MCAULEY

Di Carlo Waldron Mercy Academy stood out to Laura Panarello and Dr. Antonio Di Carlo when they relocated to the area. Laura says her children, Juliana ’16 and seventh grade student Adamo, felt welcomed immediately when they shadowed here. They entered the school in 2013. “Through the support of dedicated faculty and staff, they have thrived academically and have been encouraged to excel in all their courses,” Laura shared. “Now our daughter is thriving in high school and she credits the foundation she obtained at Waldron. Our son has grown and matured so much at Waldron and continues to learn as he nears the end of his Mercy education.”

Barber John and Maimuna Barber are an important part of the WMA community, and have been since 2010, when John began working in the kitchen through Williamson Hospitality Services. He says he was quickly impressed with the manners of all WMA students, and his wife fell in love with the school on her first visit. There was no question about where they should send their son, John Jr., to school. “I wanted my son to be part of the WMA family too, since I already was,” explained John. John Jr., now in fifth grade, began his schooling at Waldron Mercy Child Care.

Nolan Like the Barber family, the three Nolan boys (Bryan ’15, Matt ’15, and Jared ’16) started their education at Waldron Mercy Child Care. The community atmosphere drew parents Alison and Michael to WMA all those years ago. “It felt like a family. It was comforting to know that our children would be in that type of caring environment even when we were not with them,” explained Alison. She also says her sons were well prepared for the rigors of high school thanks to the teachers and strong academic program at Waldron. All three boys attend La Salle College High School.

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Beyond the Blackboard: A Look at

WMA’s INTERACTIVE CLASSROOMS

Do you remember sitting at your WMA desk looking at the head of the student in front of you? Today, our students are more likely to be looking at their portable devices or each other in our highly interactive, STEM and technology based classrooms.

The STEM and technology programs are a collaboration between the respective program heads, Michael Borton and Barb Scott, and the numerous faculty members. STEM integrates science, technology, engineering, and math in a hands-on way, implementing design and engineering skills. The separate instructional technology program at WMA focuses on learning via portable devices, such as tablets and Chromebooks. By separating the hands-on STEM curriculum from the digital-based technology curriculum, our educators make sure that the school meets the ISTE Standards for students in pre-kindergarten all the way to eighth grade.

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ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education), a global organization that sets international standards governing educational technology, helps ensure that students will thrive in the evolving world of technology.

The STEM and technology programs, though separate, promote the same skills: critical thinking, communication, creativity, and collaboration. “We jokingly say, particularly with the young kids, projects are 90% figuring out how to work with each other and meld ideas,” laughed Borton. They may joke about it, but teaching the students to work together is very important to Borton and Scott. “The workplace today – and in the future – is about being able to work collaboratively,” explained Scott.

The STEM model at WMA is an example of innovative collaboration at its finest. Scott, Borton, and their fellow educators work together to develop projects and programs that bring all subject areas together. “We are really blessed with a staff that is highly passionate, creative, and motivated to make education exciting, engaging, interesting, and fun,” shared Borton.

Thanks to this collaborative spirit, WMA became the first school to beta test an augmented reality video game about the works of William Shakespeare. Initially, Katie DeSanto, the eighth grade Language Arts teacher, asked Scott to find a virtual tour of Shakespearean Rome to connect with her lessons on Julius Caesar. “I was having a hard

time finding something like that,” Scott explained. “Luckily I just happened to stumble across this virtual reality game called Play the Knave.”

Created by a UC Davis professor, the game allows students to choose an avatar and its costumes, design a set, select music, and act out scenes from Shakespeare’s plays. As the students act out the dialogue in the real world, their body motions control the on-screen avatars in the virtual world they created.

“Virtual reality Shakespeare was a great experience because you can connect it to our world today. It helped me understand Shakespeare better by performing it instead of just reading it out of a book,” shared Annelise Fresta.

Similarly, Borton collaborated with fourth grade Language Arts teacher Courtney Kelley to develop a project that blended STEM with their class reading of The Mouse and the Motorcycle. In this book by Beverly Cleary, a mouse named Ralph rides around a hotel on a toy motorcycle given to him by a young boy. The students had to dream up a piece of mouse-sized furniture that Ralph could use.

They learned how to use software to digitally design a 3D model and printed their designs for a diorama using the 3D printers.

Some of the skills that students acquire through STEM lessons are hands-on and quantifiable such as mastering programming and design softwares and learning how to build a robot. However, STEM also teaches students a new method of thinking through an engineering design process: students ask a question, imagine and design a solution, create, and improve.

“You give the students a process, you give them a little guidance, and then you let them go. It’s astounding what they come up with,” Borton observed. “We did parachutes one year and were talking about different shapes for the chutes.

One little girl who liked hearts decided to design a heart shaped parachute, which ended up working beautifully.”

Each grade does three projects a year, and the STEM curriculum is designed to build upon their skills each year. For example, as a student makes his or her way through WMA, he or she does a more intensive LEGO robot project each year. They start with LEGO WeDo kits, move to NXT robots, and are introduced to Tetrix competition grade robots in middle school. First graders this year built a working fan; eighth graders built robots they programmed to dance to a song.

Eighth grader Michael Frick transferred to WMA from public school in sixth grade. His first exposure to coding and programming was through our STEM program. “It was amazing making LEGOs make noise and move,” he revealed. “I’m sure I’ll use the lessons I’ve learned through coding somewhere in my future.”

The final eighth grade STEM project reflects how the curriculum – and the students’ knowledge – builds. Dubbed the “Pixar Project,” the students use the cumulative skills they have acquired since first grade – STEM and all other subject areas included. They are tasked with coming up with the next big animated character, which must be centered around a socially responsible theme. Students often choose to highlight a Mercy value or trait.

The students develop the character, create a storyline, write a children’s book, develop a website, and design and build a 3D model of the character. The students then have to pitch their character to WMA faculty and staff. The top three students/groups then get the chance to pitch to outside professionals, including illustrators, authors, and marketing experts.

It is a fantastic culmination of their hard work over the span of eight plus years, melding all subject areas, from STEM to Language Arts, to Forensics.

Digital technology is heavily integrated into the classrooms at Waldron Mercy, helping the students learn beyond the standard classroom setting. Thanks to robust fundraising efforts in recent years, students in pre-kindergarten have classroom iPads, students in kindergarten through second grade have individual iPads, students in grades three through eight each have their own Chromebook, and wireless access is available throughout the building. All classrooms are equipped with a SMART Board to allow teaching and learning to be visual and interactive.

A recently added digital citizenship curriculum teaches students in grades one through eight safe, ethical, and responsible uses of

technology. Additionally, students start learning cyber literacy (the ability to find reliable and accurate digital resources) through research projects beginning in kindergarten and continuing through eighth grade.

“Since technology is such an integral part of our students lives both in school and at home, it’s important to teach them the right ways to use it,” explained third grade teacher Michelle Orapallo. She and fellow third grade teacher Kitty Ferry work hard to teach students the right way to use technology. This year, the two gave a talk at PETE&C, a statewide event that provides programs focusing on technology in education. Their presentation, titled “Building Empathy Using Technology, ” demonstrated how they use technology with their students to model digital citizenship, introduce different perspectives, and solve problems on a local or global level.

One of the programs covered during their PETE&C presentation was the PenPal Schools program, which students in grades three and seven used this year. In the program, students enroll in a project, learn the content, and then exchange ideas with children from around the world. Our students gain a global perspective from their peers in a way that would be nearly impossible without technology.

“It felt really amazing to see what other schools do to learn,” reflected third grader

Julian McKie. “We learned how their lives are different from ours,” added his twin, Justin.

In addition to using technology to gain new knowledge from their peers, WMA students also use it to learn from experts in different fields, such as authors and scientists. One of the many exciting video conferences this year was the second grade Skype with Good Morning America meteorologist Ginger Zee as part of their unit on weather. She explained the scientific process she uses to forecast the weather and talked about how she uses broadcasting to disseminate the information to the public.

Following their conversation, the students demonstrated their knowledge by becoming mini meteorologists and broadcasters.

The technology and STEM programs are integrated so seamlessly into the students’ education at Waldron Mercy Academy that it is likely students are unaware of the international standards they are following. The digital citizenship program ensures that WMA graduates are equipped to use technology more ethically safely than many current adults. Our students graduate Waldron Mercy Academy as creative, critical thinkers who collaborate with others locally and around the globe. These skills will enable them to perform well as they progress through high school, college, and their professional lives, regardless of the profession they choose.

BLUE & GOLD

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Newswor hy

“Draw persons to God by your words, by your example, and by the works of Mercy.”

VENERABLE CATHERINE MCAULEY

legacy STudenTS

We love the strong legacy at Waldron Mercy Academy!

So many current students have grandparents or parents who attended Waldron Mercy or Merion Mercy Academy.

HigH ScHool HoopS Our young alumni came out in force for High School Hoops on March 1! This was the first year that the event was separated from our Winter Carnival, now known as Winter Classic. More than 40 high schoolers were organized on the Blue Team or the Gold Team and competed head-to-head on the basketball court. A dozen more chose to watch from the stands.

“I loved the event because it gives me a chance to come back to my old gym and see faces I haven’t seen in a while,” remarked Khai Champion ’16. “It offers a great balance of reuniting and competing with my former classmates.

The teams were coached by Dr. Charles Champion (father of Chuck '12 and Khai '16) and Janelle Redcross, mother of Courtney ’12 and Lauryn ’18.

Spin & Win

Current parents Tony Robinson, Jane Meconi-Deibel, and Andrew Deibel; parent of alum Peter Bellwoar; and Herb Fry play casino games.

14

Waldron Mercy Academy

A new fall fundraiser supporting technology at WMA was held on October 20 in the Dixon Gym. Spin and Win Casino Night brought hundreds of current parents, alumni, and board members together to raise funds for our ever growing technology and STEM programming.

Alumni and former board member, Derek Redcross, Class of 1977, was honored with the Mother Patricia Waldron Award for his enduring

Trunk or TreaT The WMA Parents Association sponsored the first ever “Trunk or Treat” on October 14 as hundreds of children trick or treated from car trunk to car trunk throughout campus.

Allergy safe options were available and every trunk was decorated in festive Halloween themes. The top three trunks were awarded prizes for their decorations. Top honors went to the Guido/Kelaher family, the Barabuscio family, and the BergmanMillers.

“Everyone came over to our car because we had Waldron sweatshirts on the ghosts,” said Aisley Kelaher of first grade.

“I was really happy and surprised when we won.”

“Our first annual Trunk or Treat was a huge success.

It was wonderful to see so many Waldron families come out for an afternoon of fun and some friendly competition!” said Meghan Millard, President of the Parents Association.

If you missed “Trunk or Treat,” don’t worry – this event will be back again in the fall due to popular demand!

The Barabuscio family poses with their award winning Peter Pan car.

The Bergman-Millers stand with their Nightmare Before Christmas themed car.

The Guido/Kelahers show off their Ghostbusters decorations.

First grade teachers Eileen Aurand and Jacki Pawlowski sell chips to Spin and Win attendees.

support of Waldron over the past several decades.

Attendees played craps, roulette, and blackjack while listening to cabaret entertainment. Performers included alumni Samantha Ricchiuti ’07, Queade Norah Dweh ’07, Eryka Waller ’06, and Katie Smith ’06.

Learn more about the programs Spin and Win supported on page 12.

aluMni noTeS 1996

isadora Boucas-neto ’96 and her husband Edward Lyons were married on May 27. 2017. They welcomed their son, Edward Patrick Lyons lll, on July 5, 2018. She is currently the marketing manager for a women’s pharmaceutical company, FemmePharma, in Wayne, PA. They reside in Ardmore.

Stay in touch with friends and classmates about your career, family and other noteworthy accomplishments.

Email Peg Flynn, Director of Development and Alumni Relations at mflynn@waldronmercy.org.

1998

ron donatucci ’98 was the honoree at the 4th annual Save a Life Gala, American Foundation of Suicide Prevention (AFSP) for founding Michael’s Giving Hand, an organization which brings awareness to teen depression and anxiety. The organization was formed in memory of brother Michael Donatucci, who passed away in 2016.

1999

1997 Two weeks after receiving his MFA in Creative writing, Stephen andrews ’97 moved to Nantucket. He works at THE DREAMLAND, Nantucket’s Nonprofit Film and Cultural Center. Recently he had the opportunity to meet former Vice President Joe Biden and have his picture taken with him along with other colleagues from THE DREAMLAND at a program called Page to Stage where authors discuss their books. This program is done in conjunction with Nantucket’s Independent book shops.

2001

Maureen Taylor Vitris ’01 and her husband Matthew welcomed their daughter, Parker, on February 6, 2019. Maureen is a graduate of Merion Mercy Academy and the University of Miami where she majored in Advertising and Psychology. She works in sales for Bel Brands USA and, while they currently reside in New York City, Maureen, Matthew, and Parker will be making a move to Cincinnati, OH in May.

2006 leah Tassoni ’06 graduated from the University of Miami and is studying at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, where she will graduate in May. Leah passed her Boards and will be heading to a mixed animal internship in Texas next year.

2007

alexa constantino ’07 is a graduate of Merion Mercy, and St. Joseph’s University with a major in Entrepreneurship and Marketing and a minor in Advertising and Promotions. She went on to Philadelphia University where she received an M.S. in Global Fashion Enterprises. Alexa also received a degree in Data Driven Marketing from Cornell and she is presently pursuing her M.B.A. from St. Joe’s.

Alexa is employed at QVC where she is an e-commerce associate. Alexa has volunteered for 12 years with Operation First Response and Walk for the Wounded, an organization that raises funds and awareness to directly support our military families in their time of need.

Mia deritis ’07 graduated from the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur.

She then received a degree from Jefferson University in 2015 where she majored in Pre-Medical Studies with a minor in Psychology. Mia attended graduate school at the University of the Sciences and received a masters in Physician Assistant Studies in 2018.

2008 ashley Johnson ’99 married Scott Williams on October 28, 2018. She presently is a News Reporter/Anchor in Atlanta’s NBC’s Atlanta Alive. Ashley often credits Sister Barbara MacWilliams who had a vision of Ashley being a news personality.

2000

Marissa Magnetta ’97 graduated from Springside/Chestnut Hill Academy and studied at Suffolk University. She ran into former faculty member, Bob Fogarty, who taught her in sixth grade, at a Phillies Spring Training game. Marissa is currently a producer of The Preston and Steve Show on WMMR.

Julie leonard Busta ’00 recently joined Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP’s Philadelphia office as an associate in its litigation practice after completing a clerkship with the Honorable Mark A. Kearney of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

Julie is a graduate of Villa Maria Academy, the University of Wisconsin, where she received a BA in Political Science and History, and the University of Minnesota Law School.

gianna yanelli ’06 is a graduate of Merion Mercy and received her BFA from Texas State University in San Marcos. Gianna has now gained stardom, appearing on Broadway as a member of the cast of the highly acclaimed musical, “Mean Girls.”

When the show was nominated for a Tony recently, Gianna was front and center performing a number from the production. A bus load of her classmates and friends made the trip to NYC to see her in the musical.

david Brown ’08 was recently inducted into Alpha Psi Eta, Rosemont College’s Chapter of Sigma Tau Delta (The International English Honors Society). David was invited by his professor to be a representative for Rosemont College at the 21st Annual SEPCHE Honors Conference. David was chosen because he demonstrated excellence in writing and content within his coursework. David’s presentation was on The Bloody Chamber and its insights into masculinity in the #MeToo movement.

BLUE & GOLD

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2017

katie dewey ’17, a sophomore at Friends Central, is playing the leading role of Elle Woods in the school’s production of “Legally Blonde.” She is the co-president of the school’s Drama Club and is a member of their choral and vocal arts groups.

----------------------- R E C E N T

Neve Arden Cassidy was born to Brett cassidy ’01 and his wife Haley on November 30, 2018.

patrick ryan ’17 is a sophomore at Friends Central. Patrick is in the cast of the school’s production of “Legally Blonde,” where he is performing three different roles. Patrick also plays basketball and soccer at Friends Central.

B I R T H S -----------------------

Fred erik davis ’00 and his wife Erin Hayden celebrated the first birthday of their son, Erick Hayden Davis, born on March 1, 2018.

evan Mcclennen ’99, her husband John Metza and big sister Cora welcomed baby Ainsley Lennox Metza on January 12, 2019.

casey degen ’97 and her husband Brendan Blackwell welcomed Stella Beatrice Blackwell on December 27, 2018.

prince Holloway ’97, his wife Melissa and daughter Charlie welcomed the newest addition to their family, Ace Ignatius Holloway, who was born on November 15, 2018.

Tim Mahoney ’98, his wife Elizabeth, and big sister Josie welcomed Nathaniel Francis Mahoney on September 26, 2018.

In Memor am Frank adams ’48 Joan Bellwoar Wife of Harry Bellwoar ’45, Sister-in-law to Thomas ’48, Joseph ’50, and robert ’55 Bellwoar.

Grandmother of of peter Bellwoar ’10, gregory Bellwoar ’11

James cox Father-in-law of Lorraine Cox, Staff

louise della porta Mother of Louise Fry, Faculty

Thomas J diemedio - ’94 gertrude divine Mother of Candace Flowers, Staff; Grandmother of James ’01, Michael ’02, and nicholas ’10 Flowers

ronald ianieri ’78 Brother of Michael ianieri ’82; Cousin of Heather Mcaleer peterson ’88

Miller Barry Mccarter Father of Chris McCarter, Faculty

anthony novelli Father of Veronica Leonard; Grandfather of edward ’92, anthony ’94, Thomas ’97, Brian ’06 leonard and Julie Busta ’00. Great grandfather to Victoria leonard ’27

erma Schaffer

Mother of Ginger Fleming, Former Faculty

Father of Omi; Father-in-law of Delia Singh; Grandfather of giana and ariana Singh

Sesal Singh

Jeri Sivertson Sister of Marti Bondelid, Faculty

douglas Mcgirt 16

Waldron Mercy Academy

katie Mckelvy Swartz ’02, her husband Daniel and daughter, Stella, welcomed their second child, Leo John Swartz, on March 20, 2019.

Former Staff Member; Mother of Al Perry; Grandmother of albert ’94, Sabrina ’98, gabrielle ’09, and nicolette ’15 perry Mother of Gina Flatley, Faculty

Brother of Sister Mary Hasson, Faculty

danielle Zamorano irwin ’00, her husband Mark, and big brother Mark welcomed sister, Evita Marie Irwin, on January 8, 2019.

edith perry

Joseph Freney ’56 Mary Fleming John Hasson

Matt lancaster ’98 and his wife Julia welcomed their second child, Mara Elizabeth Lancaster, on September 3, 2018.

Father of Sharon Logan, Faculty

anastasia koutroubas ’01 and her husband Kevin Smith, along with their son Peter James, introduced their newest addition,Theodore Ryan.

He was born in Philadelphia on March 14, 2019.

Cruz Fernando Silva was born to lindsey Mcclennen Silva ’98 and her husband Alfredo on March 21, 2019.

Ways to Give GIFT OF TIME Cassandra and Patrick Doyle ’81 both enthusiastically give their time to WMA again and again. The Doyle family has been part of the WMA community since Patrick’s father, Thomas, graduated in ’48.

As busy parents of two boys (Patrick Doyle, Jr. in eighth grade and Jack Doyle in fifth grade), they make it a priority to be present at Waldron events and can always be counted on to say “yes” whenever asked to help.

“Giving back is just part of who we are as a family. We are always looking to assist where needed and enjoy creating a welcoming and fun environment for all,” said Cassandra. “Waldron Mercy Academy and its hallmarks of outreach have been in our family for three generations.”

The Doyles have volunteered in a wide range of positions. They started out as homeroom parents when Patrick was in first grade.

They have served as Athletic Chairs, organizing Homecoming and Winter Carnival from the ground up.

The two have also been Annual Fund Chairs, Tigerfest “We enjoy the Chairs, and so community aspect much more. of WMa and we “We enjoy the can’t imagine a community aspect of WMA,” more caring, family Cassandra focused environment shared, “and we Above: Cassandra works the for our children. ” cotton candy machine at Winter can’t imagine a Carnival. Below: Patrick with more caring, famStripes at Trunk or Treat. ily focused environment for our children. Setting examples of volunteering to assist others is what we instill in our own children.”

Patrick and Cassandra have worked hard each year to make sure they bring something new to the events they help organize. For example, the first year they chaired Homecoming, they came up with the idea of an indoor craft project to provide something fun and entertaining for the younger kids who weren’t involved in sports.

Cassandra is humble about the amount of work she and her husband put in for Homecoming and Winter Carnival.

“It’s a team effort; we just spearhead it. We are grateful to have the same group of people who help us organize the events every year. We have it down to a science now,” she laughed.

In the spirit of Mercy and hospitality, the Doyles can always be counted on to show up and encourage others to do the same.

GIFT OF TREASURE THE WALDRON ANNUAL FUND The Annual Fund campaign provides support for general operating expenses such as student and faculty programs, curriculum, technology, and building and grounds improvements.

MATCHING GIFTS You can double your support by designating Waldron Mercy Academy as the recipient of matching funds if your employer has a matching gift program.

THE UNITED WAY WMA is approved to receive donations through United Way’s Giving Program. If you already use this as a way to give, please consider WMA as a recipient when choosing where to allocate your funds through United Way. Our designation is: Waldron Mercy Academy #14245.

GIFTS OF STOCK You can also give appreciated stock, which is easily transferable and provides special tax benefits. Please contact us for more information.

PENNSYLVANIA BUSINESS OWNERS If your company pays Pennsylvania state income tax, it may be possible to give the funds to WMA instead. Through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and the Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs, your company can receive a substantial tax credit while supporting WMA’s Student Aid Fund. Certain individuals may now direct their tax dollars, too! Review this opportunity with your tax adviser and contact our advancement office.

THE EDGAR H. GRIFFITHS ’35 PLANNED GIVING SOCIETY Even after his death, Edgar made sure that his generosity to Waldron Mercy would continue by remembering Waldron Mercy in his will, which noted the impact the Sisters of Mercy had on his life. We hope that you will be inspired to follow Edgar and Mary Griffiths' example and include Waldron Mercy in your estate plans. Your gift will have a significant effect on the education Waldron Mercy Academy provides to present and future students.

THE GUZZARDI SCHOLARSHIP FUND This fund was established by brothers Robert ’58, Lawrence ’60, and Michael ’64 Guzzardi in memory of their parents, Salvatore and Tina Guzzardi. Your gift to this fund will enable WMA to provide financial assistance to deserving students.

513 Montgomery Avenue Merion Station, PA 19066 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

SAVE THE DATES FOR OUR FALL EVENTS Sunday, September 22, 2019

aluMni eVenTS:

Leadership Donor Reception

Saturday, october 5, 2019

4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Homecoming

Friday, october 19, 2019

8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Spin & Win Casino Night

Saturday, november 9, 2019

7:00 to 11:00 p.m.

Waldron Alumni All Class Reunion and Reception

Sunday, october 27, 2019

Trunk or Treat 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Sunday, december 15, 2019

Family Advent Mass & Social 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.

6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Friday, March 27, 2020

High School Hoops 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, april 30, 2020

Class of 2016 Senior Class Send Off & Parent Reception 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.