What’s in store for our schools? A preview of the new year in the Diocese's Catholic schools
September 12, 2024 at 4:17 p.m.
As students, teachers and families once again return to the classroom, here is a listing of just some of the developments and milestones that will take place in the new school year. Check out the New School Year Preview at TrentonMonitor.com>News>Schools for more on these exciting plans for the 2024-25 school year:
Donovan Catholic High School partners with Bloomberg
As part of its ongoing commitment to developing top academic programs and preparing real-world-ready students, Donovan Catholic High School in Toms River is partnering with Bloomberg Finance to bring financial literacy, news and research tools and analytics.
Students will have access to classrooms outfitted with 20 Bloomberg terminals. They also will have the opportunity to receive certification in Bloomberg courses in marketing, finance and environmental social governance.
_____________________________________________________________
Notre Dame High School emphasizes mental health
Notre Dame High School in Lawrenceville is dedicated to creating a supportive and healthy environment for the emotional well-being of its students and teachers. While the school offers counseling and resources, the newest student club, Morgan's Message, raises awareness about athletes' struggles and challenges at school and assures them that there is no shame in seeking mental health care.
In addition, resources such as "Talk Space," an online service for teachers, recognize their role in creating a stable and productive learning environment. The school's Virtual Calming Room equips students and families with tools for emotional management, reinforcing the idea that seeking help is a sign of strength. The school is partnering with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care to provide support and resources to students and parents.
____________________________________________________________
Red Bank Catholic High School to get new graphics, engineering lab
For 2024, one of Red Bank’s initiatives involves the creation of a combination CADD (Computer Aided Drawing and Design), Graphic Design and Engineering lab space “focused on student creativity,” said engineering and CADD teacher Bryan Nesci. “The Maker Room portion of the lab will be a flex space with tools and equipment on moveable bases for students to create and collaborate on their ideas with ease,” he said, noting that that room will be separated from the CADD and Graphic Design computer lab with a fully retractable wall that doubles as a teacher whiteboard.
A walled-off corner room will house six three-dimensional printers with a seventh resin material printer to be added. These printers bring student design projects to life and were instrumental in 2023 Casey grad Savannah Isacson's Capstone prosthetic hand project: https://www.redbankcatholic.org/about/state-of-school/isacson-capstone-project.
The new lab was funded by donors from the Casey community.
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Sacred Heart School adds outdoor classroom, playground graphics
With the new school year comes new changes, and for Sacred Heart School in Mount Holly, Burlington County, these changes brought a revitalized enthusiasm for learning, play and creativity. Since the 2023-2024 school year, the K-8 school has created an outdoor classroom and added colorful graphics to the playground blacktop.
Last school year, Principal Joanna Barlow proposed the idea of an outdoor classroom, a change that was made possible by the Diocese of Trenton’s Elementary School Grant.
The new outdoor space is a part of Sacred Heart’s emphasis this year on Social Emotional Learning (SEL), which offers a holistic approach to education, highlighting students’ personal as well as academic well-being. “Our new outdoor classroom is the ideal space to foster a refreshing, calming, and nature-based learning environment, supporting students' mental and social well-being,” says Barlow.
A number of student volunteers helped art teacher Yvette Fortin create the network of colorful paintings to the playground blacktop. These include classic games such as hopscotch and four-square, and an activity maze.
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St. Ann School marks 60 years
St. Ann School in Lawrenceville is marking its 60 years of education. Special events will include a Kick-off Mass and Reception honoring alumni from all decades and an Oktoberfest Oct. 6; Catholic Schools Week Alumni Mass and Brunch Jan. 26; "Now and Then" Gala March 1; and an Alumni Golf Outing June 3.
St. Ann principal Ameriquin Laccetti said she has been reflecting on the many students the school has impacted.
Laccetti hopes that current students will take away poignant messages from the anniversary year celebrations, most notably “that building relationships in life, such as the relationships with their peers, teachers and the school administration, binds you for a lifetime to a community. This community has left an imprint in six decades of generations.”
____________________________________________________________
St. Catharine School gets new curriculum
This year, under the guidance of Tara Brazinski, who has taught at St. Catharine School for 15 years and is the new director of curriculum, the Spring Lake school is implementing new reading and math curricula. Teachers will be using Wonders McGraw Hill for grades K-5 and StudySync for grades 6-8. The new Math program is Envisions by SAVVAS; the program offers digital support and family engagement resources.
Students and staff also will work with the theme of “Faith First” in all aspects of school life.
____________________________________________________________
St. Charles Borromeo School celebrates Diamond Jubilee
The community at St. Charles Borromeo School in Cinnaminson will celebrate its Diamond Jubilee. The school’s opening liturgy will double as its 60th Jubilee Mass and celebration Sept. 27, followed by a birthday celebration complete with cake. A visit from alumni who attended St. Charles in 1964 is still in the planning stages.
St. Charles Borromeo students, faculty and families will be working to read 60 books per student, pray 60 Rosaries per classroom, and perform 60 acts of service this school year. The plan to compile a 60th Anniversary Parish Family Cookbook, featuring favorite recipes from school and parish families. Students will be interviewed on what they hope to have seen and done when they turn 60.
"What a happy occasion it is to be celebrating 60 years of Catholic education here at St. Charles Borromeo,” said Father Dan Kirk, parish pastor. “To think of the generations of faith that have gone through and remained a part of our parish community, so much so that now we are seeing the children and grandchildren of graduates joining our community anew — it's a beautiful thing.
“It speaks to the strength of Catholic education and how family-oriented it really is,” he added.
____________________________________________________________
St. Mary Academy updates its STREAM center
Among other improvements, St. Mary Academy in Manahawkin renovated the third-grade classroom and its center for STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Continuing efforts to assure children “become critical thinkers, problem solvers, and confident leaders in an academically rich and faith-filled environment,” the school discontinues traditional studies from 1-2:20 p.m. to participate in “STREAM Fridays,” said principal Lizanne Coyne.
“STREAM Fridays provide opportunities to empower the children with the necessary tools to be successful in high school, to grow into life-long learners, and to become productive and effective citizens of the world,” she said.
“We cross grades, and the students work together to solve problems related to STREAM,” she explained. “The children are put in groups, and their activities can include anything from collecting cereal boxes (for service) and creating a long domino with various twists and turns, to developing robotic hands and arms from kits, flying drones, navigating Sphero balls, creating marble runs, 3D printing activities, Lego League Robotics, and more. It's a great way for the students, of all grade levels, to collaborate and end of the week.”
Click HERE to view a video of St. Mary Academy’s “STREAM Fridays.
https://www.facebook.com/stmaryknights/videos/350662487897051
___________________________________________________________
St. Mary of the Lakes plans gala to mark 70 years
For St. Mary of the Lakes School, 2024 marks a milestone: its 70th anniversary. A special celebration is planned for Oct. 12 with a Mass in the church, followed by a gala in the school. Tickets are $50 for this adults-only event that includes dinner and dancing. For ticket information, click here.
____________________________________________________________
St. Paul School improves security
Making certain that St. Paul School continuously provides a safe environment for the students, principal Maria Spirito announced that updated security measures include the installation of bullet-resistant glass on windows and placement of bollards in front of the Burlington school's glass entrance.
____________________________________________________________
St. Raphael School announces new roles
Here’s a sneak peek into some of the new faces and roles at St. Raphael School in Hamilton:
Mrs. Keren Laudadio iKeren Laudadio, who has two children in the school, will begin as a teacher. She enjoys spending time with her family, loves cooking, reading, dining out, shopping, and, of course, coffee.
Mr. Daniel Ramsey Daniel Ramsey will join the middle school science faculty. He finds inspiration in the Bible verse Luke 1:37, “For with God, nothing is impossible.”
Mr. Ryan Matthews (Mr. Matt), a retired police officer and coach in Burlington County, will take on the role of School Security Officer, a new position dedicated to ensuring the safety of every child.
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Tuesday, September 17, 2024
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Events
As students, teachers and families once again return to the classroom, here is a listing of just some of the developments and milestones that will take place in the new school year. Check out the New School Year Preview at TrentonMonitor.com>News>Schools for more on these exciting plans for the 2024-25 school year:
Donovan Catholic High School partners with Bloomberg
As part of its ongoing commitment to developing top academic programs and preparing real-world-ready students, Donovan Catholic High School in Toms River is partnering with Bloomberg Finance to bring financial literacy, news and research tools and analytics.
Students will have access to classrooms outfitted with 20 Bloomberg terminals. They also will have the opportunity to receive certification in Bloomberg courses in marketing, finance and environmental social governance.
_____________________________________________________________
Notre Dame High School emphasizes mental health
Notre Dame High School in Lawrenceville is dedicated to creating a supportive and healthy environment for the emotional well-being of its students and teachers. While the school offers counseling and resources, the newest student club, Morgan's Message, raises awareness about athletes' struggles and challenges at school and assures them that there is no shame in seeking mental health care.
In addition, resources such as "Talk Space," an online service for teachers, recognize their role in creating a stable and productive learning environment. The school's Virtual Calming Room equips students and families with tools for emotional management, reinforcing the idea that seeking help is a sign of strength. The school is partnering with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care to provide support and resources to students and parents.
____________________________________________________________
Red Bank Catholic High School to get new graphics, engineering lab
For 2024, one of Red Bank’s initiatives involves the creation of a combination CADD (Computer Aided Drawing and Design), Graphic Design and Engineering lab space “focused on student creativity,” said engineering and CADD teacher Bryan Nesci. “The Maker Room portion of the lab will be a flex space with tools and equipment on moveable bases for students to create and collaborate on their ideas with ease,” he said, noting that that room will be separated from the CADD and Graphic Design computer lab with a fully retractable wall that doubles as a teacher whiteboard.
A walled-off corner room will house six three-dimensional printers with a seventh resin material printer to be added. These printers bring student design projects to life and were instrumental in 2023 Casey grad Savannah Isacson's Capstone prosthetic hand project: https://www.redbankcatholic.org/about/state-of-school/isacson-capstone-project.
The new lab was funded by donors from the Casey community.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sacred Heart School adds outdoor classroom, playground graphics
With the new school year comes new changes, and for Sacred Heart School in Mount Holly, Burlington County, these changes brought a revitalized enthusiasm for learning, play and creativity. Since the 2023-2024 school year, the K-8 school has created an outdoor classroom and added colorful graphics to the playground blacktop.
Last school year, Principal Joanna Barlow proposed the idea of an outdoor classroom, a change that was made possible by the Diocese of Trenton’s Elementary School Grant.
The new outdoor space is a part of Sacred Heart’s emphasis this year on Social Emotional Learning (SEL), which offers a holistic approach to education, highlighting students’ personal as well as academic well-being. “Our new outdoor classroom is the ideal space to foster a refreshing, calming, and nature-based learning environment, supporting students' mental and social well-being,” says Barlow.
A number of student volunteers helped art teacher Yvette Fortin create the network of colorful paintings to the playground blacktop. These include classic games such as hopscotch and four-square, and an activity maze.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
St. Ann School marks 60 years
St. Ann School in Lawrenceville is marking its 60 years of education. Special events will include a Kick-off Mass and Reception honoring alumni from all decades and an Oktoberfest Oct. 6; Catholic Schools Week Alumni Mass and Brunch Jan. 26; "Now and Then" Gala March 1; and an Alumni Golf Outing June 3.
St. Ann principal Ameriquin Laccetti said she has been reflecting on the many students the school has impacted.
Laccetti hopes that current students will take away poignant messages from the anniversary year celebrations, most notably “that building relationships in life, such as the relationships with their peers, teachers and the school administration, binds you for a lifetime to a community. This community has left an imprint in six decades of generations.”
____________________________________________________________
St. Catharine School gets new curriculum
This year, under the guidance of Tara Brazinski, who has taught at St. Catharine School for 15 years and is the new director of curriculum, the Spring Lake school is implementing new reading and math curricula. Teachers will be using Wonders McGraw Hill for grades K-5 and StudySync for grades 6-8. The new Math program is Envisions by SAVVAS; the program offers digital support and family engagement resources.
Students and staff also will work with the theme of “Faith First” in all aspects of school life.
____________________________________________________________
St. Charles Borromeo School celebrates Diamond Jubilee
The community at St. Charles Borromeo School in Cinnaminson will celebrate its Diamond Jubilee. The school’s opening liturgy will double as its 60th Jubilee Mass and celebration Sept. 27, followed by a birthday celebration complete with cake. A visit from alumni who attended St. Charles in 1964 is still in the planning stages.
St. Charles Borromeo students, faculty and families will be working to read 60 books per student, pray 60 Rosaries per classroom, and perform 60 acts of service this school year. The plan to compile a 60th Anniversary Parish Family Cookbook, featuring favorite recipes from school and parish families. Students will be interviewed on what they hope to have seen and done when they turn 60.
"What a happy occasion it is to be celebrating 60 years of Catholic education here at St. Charles Borromeo,” said Father Dan Kirk, parish pastor. “To think of the generations of faith that have gone through and remained a part of our parish community, so much so that now we are seeing the children and grandchildren of graduates joining our community anew — it's a beautiful thing.
“It speaks to the strength of Catholic education and how family-oriented it really is,” he added.
____________________________________________________________
St. Mary Academy updates its STREAM center
Among other improvements, St. Mary Academy in Manahawkin renovated the third-grade classroom and its center for STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Continuing efforts to assure children “become critical thinkers, problem solvers, and confident leaders in an academically rich and faith-filled environment,” the school discontinues traditional studies from 1-2:20 p.m. to participate in “STREAM Fridays,” said principal Lizanne Coyne.
“STREAM Fridays provide opportunities to empower the children with the necessary tools to be successful in high school, to grow into life-long learners, and to become productive and effective citizens of the world,” she said.
“We cross grades, and the students work together to solve problems related to STREAM,” she explained. “The children are put in groups, and their activities can include anything from collecting cereal boxes (for service) and creating a long domino with various twists and turns, to developing robotic hands and arms from kits, flying drones, navigating Sphero balls, creating marble runs, 3D printing activities, Lego League Robotics, and more. It's a great way for the students, of all grade levels, to collaborate and end of the week.”
Click HERE to view a video of St. Mary Academy’s “STREAM Fridays.
https://www.facebook.com/stmaryknights/videos/350662487897051
___________________________________________________________
St. Mary of the Lakes plans gala to mark 70 years
For St. Mary of the Lakes School, 2024 marks a milestone: its 70th anniversary. A special celebration is planned for Oct. 12 with a Mass in the church, followed by a gala in the school. Tickets are $50 for this adults-only event that includes dinner and dancing. For ticket information, click here.
____________________________________________________________
St. Paul School improves security
Making certain that St. Paul School continuously provides a safe environment for the students, principal Maria Spirito announced that updated security measures include the installation of bullet-resistant glass on windows and placement of bollards in front of the Burlington school's glass entrance.
____________________________________________________________
St. Raphael School announces new roles
Here’s a sneak peek into some of the new faces and roles at St. Raphael School in Hamilton:
Mrs. Keren Laudadio iKeren Laudadio, who has two children in the school, will begin as a teacher. She enjoys spending time with her family, loves cooking, reading, dining out, shopping, and, of course, coffee.
Mr. Daniel Ramsey Daniel Ramsey will join the middle school science faculty. He finds inspiration in the Bible verse Luke 1:37, “For with God, nothing is impossible.”
Mr. Ryan Matthews (Mr. Matt), a retired police officer and coach in Burlington County, will take on the role of School Security Officer, a new position dedicated to ensuring the safety of every child.