Catholic Schools Week · 2020. 3. 31. · Throughout my priesthood, and my 15 years as a bishop, Catholic schools have always been a priority for my ministry. Irrespective of the

A SUPPLEMENT TO THE CATHOLIC STAR HERALD JANUARY 24, 2020

Catholic Schools Week

Learn. Serve. Lead. Succeed.

Photo by Debbie Troy

Children at Good Shepherd School, Collingswood, have their picture taken on Jan. 17, a day set aside for service to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.See page S13.

S2 Catholic Star Herald January 24, 2020Catholic Schools Week

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Throughout my priesthood, and my15 years as a bishop, Catholic schoolshave always been a priority for myministry. Irrespective of the size of aCatholic school, each has an equallyimportant role to play in society andfor the Church. Our schools are aboutthe business of education and they goabout their business with excellence.Not only do our students benefit fromthem but so too does our church andour nation.

Though curriculums evolve, our fun-damental values continue to withstandthe test of time. While test scores,scholarships, college acceptance rates,and career paths all reflect the signifi-cant academic advantages of ourschools, what truly sets us apart is ourability to infuse our Catholic faith andculture into every element of theschool day, including extracurricularactivities. Christian morality, ethics,and charity inform each subject area.Although the philosophy of Catholiceducation developed many centuriesago, it continues to inform ourapproach to education. In a nut shellCatholic education is an education ofthe whole person – mind, soul andbody because this is how God createdhuman beings. A student in a Catholicschool grows in mind, in spirit and inbody.

As Catholic educators, we have thefreedom to bring values to our studentsand families through the message ofJesus. For instance, in Catholic schoolswe can publicly and proudly celebratea culture of life, where students learnto engage, respect and serve others.The environment of the school is per-meated by Jesus Christ, the Gospel,prayer, faith and by the Sacraments of

the Catholic church. The school evenlooks beyond its doors to the worldoutside for which the student learnsresponsibility.

We often use the phrase “The Gift ofa Lifetime” when we refer to ourCatholic schools. In every facet, this istrue. A Catholic school education isthe gift a parent gives their child; it isthe gift we offer the world by provid-ing well-formed, intelligent and com-passionate future leaders. I can person-ally testify that it is the gift I received

as a student in the fifties in a Catholicgrammar school, in the sixties in aCatholic high school and in a Catholiccollege. It is the gift that helped mediscern my vocation to the priesthood.

If you are looking for a school orknow someone who is, I stronglyencourage you to consider a Catholicschool and offer your child and theworld the gift of a lifetime. A gift thatwill form and inform your child.Catholic schools work and they are asuccess academically, spiritually and

humanly. In the Diocese of Camdenwe have a product of which I am veryproud.

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend Dennis Sullivan,D.D.

Bishop of Camden

By Dr. William A. Watson

The national celebration of CatholicSchools has been an annual traditionsince 1974. It starts the lastSunday in January and runsall week. From Jan. 26 toFeb. 1, 2020, South JerseyCatholic Schools will hostMasses and open houses,sponsor academic challengesand exhibits, and hold otherevents designed to showcaseand celebrate our schoolcommunities. We will focuson the value Catholic schoolsprovide to young people and their con-tributions to our church, our communi-ties, and our world.

In the Diocese of Camden, webelieve a Catholic school education is

the Gift of a Lifetime. By inviting thegrace of God into everything we do asa community — from academics,sports, and other extracurriculars to

religious formation, celebrat-ing the sacraments, and serv-ing others — we help stu-dents get ready to shape theworld with knowledge,integrity and compassion.These are qualities our stu-dents bring to higher educa-tion, careers, relationships,vocations, and their homecommunities and parishesthroughout their lives.

The dedicated principals and teach-ers in South Jersey Catholic Schoolsare empowered by our shared values todo more for the students they serve.For example, when middle school

teachers discuss reproduction, they arenot limited to the explanation of whathappens to cells. They can go furtherby exploring life lessons aroundmorality and consequences. First gradeteachers talk about the Solar System inconjunction with books about thebeauty of God's creation. In theaterand music, teachers help studentsappreciate their talents and the talentsof others as gifts from God and to rec-ognize how each of us is called toshare our talents with others. Mathteachers draw on the faith lives of theirstudents to help them discover howmath, like faith, has a role in everydaylife.

Our schools are filled with teachersand leaders who are committed todoing more — providing an outstand-ing academic experience through the

lens of faith in a community of love. This week, I offer my gratitude to

the thousands of parents who chooseCatholic school for their children andinvite those who are discerning thebest environment for their children tojoin in our celebration and consider aCatholic school education. You canlearn more and find a nearby school atwww.southjerseycatholicschools.org.Or visit our South Jersey CatholicSchools page on Facebook and,through our video series highlightinghow Catholic schools do more, meetsome of the many principals andteachers who make Catholic schoolsthe Gift of a Lifetime.

Dr. William A. Watson is superinten-dent of schools for the Diocese ofCamden.

DR. WILLIAM A.WATSON

Schools provide academic excellence through the lens of faith

Our schools work, academically, spiritually, humanly

Photo by Mike Walsh

Bishop Dennis Sullivan has his photo taken on the first day of the 2019-20 school year.

January 24, 2020 Catholic Star Herald S3Learn • Serve • Lead • Succeed

By Peter G. Sánchez

Saint John Paul II once called theHoly Eucharist, sacrament andsacrifice,“the source and summit

of all Christian life.” And it’s no sur-prise that South Jersey’s Catholic ele-mentary and secondary schools seefrequent participation in the Mass asessential young minds in Christian for-mation.

“One of the great gifts of a Catholicschool education is that we orienteverything toward God, and nothing ismore oriented to God than the liturgy,”said Bill Watson, Superintendent ofCatholic Schools for the Diocese ofCamden.

Whether celebrated at a nearbychurch, or in the school’s chapel orauditorium, “The liturgy sets the over-all tone for who we are. It’s the foun-tain from which the rest of theschool’s Catholic identity flows,” hecontinued.

The Directors of Catholic Identity,serving in diocesan high schools, agreewith Watson.

“Mass is the highest form of prayer,and in the Mass, Jesus is truly presentin body, blood, soul and divinity,” says

Father Josh Nevitt, Director ofCatholic Identity at Absecon’s HolySpirit High School. At the school, hesays, in addition to the Masses cele-brated during such events as the seniorgraduation and National HonorsSociety induction, a liturgy for theentire Holy Spirit community is cele-brated at least once a month.

Also, sports teams will gather inprayer and petition during pre-gameliturgies.

To encourage participation of hisyouthful congregation, he says, theliturgies will include contemporaryChristian music, and video screens willdisplay Mass responses for students.

At Camden Catholic High School inCherry Hill, the daily 7:45 a.m. Massfor students and faculty “helps to focusthe day, and put one in the right mind-set,” says Father Ed Kennedy, theschool’s Director of Catholic Identity.

He sees that not only are his studentsattending the liturgy, but are alsoembracing it, and taking ownership ofthe sacrament and of their faith.

“Students want to be a part of theliturgy, whether serving as lectors,altar servers, or assisting with theoffertory,” he says.

His counterparts at Paul VI HighSchool, Wildwood Catholic andGloucester Catholic say the same oftheir communities.

Father Dexter Nebrida at Paul VI,Haddonfield, hopes to celebrate aMass for each individual class beforethe year is out.

In addition to the liturgy itself, stu-dents “assist with the set up and break-down” of the Mass, in preparing thealtar or lighting the candles, saidFather Steven Pinzon of WildwoodCatholic.

“Students’ participation in Mass isan opportunity for them to connectwith God, and thank him for the bless-ings they receive,” said Father PhilipRamos from Gloucester Catholic.

At the elementary level, the youngerstudents are no less enthusiastic aboutthe liturgy.

“Each month, one of our gradestakes charge of the monthly liturgy,and students pick out the theme andthe readings, and eagerly sing in thechoir, read from the pulpit, or providethe petitions,” said Linda Pirolli, prin-cipal at Mays Landing’s Saint Vincentde Paul Regional School.

“These students feel like it’s their

own Mass, and they take ownership.”For Joe Saffioti, principal of

Merchantville’s Saint Peter School,“the liturgy is the driving force of anauthentic Christian culture … weshould try to encounter Christ as oftenas we possibly can.” To accomplishthis, Mass is celebrated every Fridaymorning in Saint Peter Church.

Watson is pleased with the work theschools are doing in bringing “heavenon earth” to students, as Vatican IIcalled the liturgy.

“We are interested in kids being andbecoming who God wants them to be,and the only way they can do that isby drawing close to God, and one ofthe best ways they can draw close toGod is by experiencing His presencein the Eucharist.”

Superintent Watson sees the benefitsnot only at school, but at home. His11-year-old son, Owen, has recentlybecome an altar server, which haschanged and deepened his appreciationfor the Mass. For Owen, there’s nomore sleeping in on Sundays.

“He’s never been more enthusiasticabout going to Mass, and he’s keepinghis family on schedule on Sundays,”the proud father says.

Photo by Mike Walsh

Father Robert Hughes distributes Communion during a Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Glassboro, last year. It was attended by representatives of 35 Catholicelementary and high schools throughout southern New Jersey. The celebration of the Mass, prayer services and other devotions are part of school life at Catholicschools in South Jersey.

School culture is inseparable from its Catholic identity


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By Mary Beth Peabody

WILLIAMSTOWN — As JoeyRouse tells it, he and his classmateswere looking out for Aidan Eberhardtlong before third grade.

“We were helping him out in Pre-K,” said the exuberant Joey, now inseventh grade at Saint Mary School inWilliamstown. “He was so shy. Wehelped him out of his comfort zone.Even in kindergarten I’d see him andjust yell out, ‘Hey buddy.’”

And it worked. By first grade, thetwo were fast friends, best friends,bound by a love of Marvel and allthings superhero. Joey described howtheir first sleepover turned into an all-night Marvel marathon, sealing thekind of friendship that lasts forever.And then came the third grade roster,with the crushing revelation that Joeyand Aidan would be in different class-rooms.

That was the summer of 2015. Atthe time, no one could anticipate theseparation the entire grade would facejust after Christmas, when Aidan wasdiagnosed with a malignant braintumor. He spent the rest of the schoolyear at home, much of the time intreatment.

Being at home didn’t keep Aidanapart from Joey and his other friendsor the school and parish community.Those ties grew stronger. During hishomebound days in third grade and theups and downs of fourth and fifth, theschool welcomed Aidan whenever hecould make it, on his terms. He tookpart in holiday celebrations and oftenjoined his mom, Chris, when she vol-unteered at the school.

“Even when he didn’t feel well hecould take part. It can be alienating tobe sick,” said Aidan’s father, Glenn.

“We supported them for whateverthey needed to do for all three of theirchildren,” said Saint Mary’s principalPatricia Mancuso. “It was so easy toget everyone on board to really rootfor this family and pray for this fami-ly.”

And root they did. At the end ofthird grade, Aidan entered the school

one day to find 450 students lined upalong the hallways to greet their ownsuperhero. Dressed in their favoritesuperhero costumes, they clapped asAidan made his way to the decoratedcafeteria where he was greeted by astiltwalker and ate lunch with hisclassmates.

The Eberhardts’ extended familieswere an integral part of their supportsystem, but not close enough to bethere on the spot in an emergency.Chris and Glenn credit the SaintMary’s community for jumping in

when they needed to shift gears unex-pectedly.

“It was easier to relinquish controlof the other kids knowing I could pickup the phone, no questions asked,”said Chris. She said she could call theschool with no notice and her youngersons, Connor and Owen, could staylate or other parents would help out.“It was so different from a largeschool, where there are five or sixclasses [in each grade]. It gave me alevel of calm,” she said.

Chris and Glenn are connected toother parents who share the journeywith critically ill children. Theydescribed some of the comments par-ents have made about their schoolexperiences — from impersonal,insensitive requests for absence notes,to sick children being bullied atschool. The Eberhardts have seennothing but kindness from other stu-dents and said even their doctor wasamazed by the support they received atSaint Mary’s.

“Aidan’s class has a special place inmy heart,” said Chris.

Aidan died in August 2018, just

before the start of sixth grade. Nearly18 months later, tears, sadness, joy andlaughter flow freely from his parentsand school friends when they talkabout him — how he loved the atten-tion of superhero day, despite his quietpersonality, or the way a downwardglance could yield a new Lego setfrom his fans at CHOP.

When Aidan’s friends were askedabout ways they remember him, Joeyscrunched his face and said, “It’s notremembering Aidan. It’s knowing him.I don’t need to remember him becausehe’s always here. Every time I see asuperhero or Legos I see Aidan. Hewas the greatest friend I ever had —no offense to you two,” he added,looking at his buddies Stephen andMikey.

Glenn said he believes being in aCatholic school has helped students,including his other sons, deal withAidan’s death. “It helps that they learnabout God, heaven, and Jesus’ love.They are immersed in faith. Theyknow [death] isn’t the end.”

The Eberhardts remain active atSaint Mary’s. They said they still ben-efit from a supportive communitywhere teachers who know and under-stand the family’s history watch outfor Owen and Connor, who are now inthird and fifth grades.

Aidan’s presence continues to bloomat Saint Mary’s. When his classmateswanted to plant a tree in his memory,the family chose a Ginkgo tree. Glennsaid they chose the Ginkgo for its per-fect form, long life span, and resilienceto disease and pests. The real beauty,he described, is in its leaves, whichshed in a short timeframe to create abeautiful yellow blanket.

Principal Mancuso said the schoolbought a birdfeeder to go with tree, butthey moved it this year so it would stillbe visible to Aidan’s classmates. Whenthey rise to eighth grade, the birdfeed-er will go with them. And as theywatch the free wings of Aidan’s spiritcome and go, his friends will continueto see the message etched at the top ofthe birdfeeder: Love grows here. Livewith purpose.

A tree, for Aidan, grows in Williamstown


WILLLIAMSTOWN — In a recentinterview, Father Chris Bakey reflect-ed on the time he spent with theEberhardt family, whose son Aidandied from a malignant brain tumor inAugust 2018, just days before hewould have started sixth grade.Aidan’s parents, Chris and Glenn, tookpart in the conversation, along with

Saint Mary School, Williamstownprincipal Patricia Mancuso. FatherBakey recalled his first visit to theEberhardt’s home, just after Aidan wasdiagnosed.

“I felt like I was going to be seenas the Grim Reaper,” he said, admit-ting he was nervous about going tothe Eberhardt’s, about how Aidanwould feel with a priest showing up.What he found was a warm and wel-

coming home, where he would spenda good deal of time over the nextthree years. He described Aidan’sroom, an ordinary kid’s room filledwith action figures and Legos. “Thatroom held so much life,” said FatherBakey.

“I tried to get to know him, to meethim where he was,” he added, recall-ing Aidan as quiet, brave, “a greatkid.” It made him laugh to talk about

the way Aidan would sit near him atBingo, hoping for an advantage whenFather was calling the numbers.Maybe there was an occasional advan-tage.

Father Bakey is quick to insist hegained far more from his journey withthe Eberhardts than they did.

“It was an honor to be with them,and I am blessed.” he said. “It wastruly sacred.”

Saint Mary School students Joey Rouse (kneeling), Michael Audio, and StephenKhoper with the school’s Ginkgo tree planted in memory of their friend andclassmate, Aidan Eberhardt, who died from cancer in August 2018.

Priest recalls three-year journey with Aidan and his family

Aidan Eberhardt, left, received ahero’s welcome from the Saint Mary’scommunity on Superhero Day.



Facebook and other social mediaoutlets occupy a lot of time for alot of people. These outlets can

be sources for breaking news, battlingviews and building communities.

For South Jersey Catholic Schools,social media connects families andindividuals with schools. It’s whereyou will find communities invested inacademics, out-of-classroom experi-ences and spiritual growth. It’s a placefor posting reminders, sharing photosand preserving memories. A placewhere parents and visitors can get asnapshot of daily life at school.

Following is a glimpse of what youmight find if you visit a South JerseyCatholic school’s Facebook page.

Student spotlightsSome schools, like Bishop Schad

Regional School in Vineland, intro-duce students with a photo and quotesfrom an interview.

“When new kids come to BSR Ialways welcome them to our [school]family. Family is very important -they’re our support, our safety, and oursecurity. Our family should inspire usto be the best people we can be… Iwant to be an inspiration to otherstoo.” Leighanna, Grade 6

“I like being a role model. It feelsgood to be looked up to.” Carson,Grade 7

“I transferred this year from publicschool. I wanted a new environmentand really like the smaller class size. Iwas really shy at first but it was easyto make friends here. Bishop Schadkids have a true understanding offriendship. I feel like we’re all a bigfamily, like I’ve been here forever.”Leylani, Grade 6

Parent testimonialsParent testimonials are a great way

to find out about a school. Saint JohnPaul II Regional School in Stratfordfeatures parents on its Facebook page.

“Lisa and I wanted a faith-basededucation for our Mia. We made ourdecision after visiting a Saint JohnPaul II Open House. For a Catholicschool of 300 students it has every-thing we desire for Mia; a challengingcurriculum, a caring but disciplinedatmosphere, and a diverse studentbody that we feel is an integral part ofour daughter’s education.”

“We decided to send our daughter,Katie, to Saint John Paul II RegionalSchool when she was eligible in Pre-K-3 because we wanted to build uponthe Catholic faith that is part of ourfamily. We are active members of OurLady of Guadalupe Parish and haveexperienced a strong sense of commu-

nity and commitment between theparish and school. The bond was evenmore paramount to me being a mem-ber of the U.S. Army and deployed fora year in the Middle East.”

Comments and repliesWhen you see comments and replies

on a Facebook post, scroll down soyou don’t miss the chatter.

“Assumption opened up the doors toopportunity in so many ways and nowmy daughters have walked throughthose doors and feel successful, thanksto their Catholic grammar school edu-cation. When high school teacherswant to know where my daughtersattended grammar school/junior high,we proudly say “Assumption inGalloway.”

Parent of former students at

Assumption Regional CatholicSchool, Galloway

“I cannot say enough good thingsabout the experience my grandson ishaving in preschool at Saint Vincent’s.He has learned so much and it’s onlyOctober. He loves it and as a teachermyself for 44 years I am veryimpressed.”

Grandparent of a student at SaintVincent de Paul Regional School,Mays Landing.

Unique experiencesSouth Jersey Catholic School

Facebook pages offer an inside view ofacademic experiences, faith journeys,community building events and randomfun.

Here are just a few examples of sto-ries you might find on a school’s

Facebook page.Celebrating faith in school isn’t lim-

ited to learning about the Catholicfaith. Seventh and eighth grades atSaint Joseph Regional ElementarySchool (Hammonton) visited a syna-gogue and the Sam Azeez Museum ofWoodbine Heritage to learn about thesettlement of Russian Jews and theircontributions to the growth ofWoodbine.

What do vaping and the Lincoln-Douglas debate format have in com-mon? Students at Saint Joseph HighSchool in Hammonton used the for-mat to debate the topic of vaping as apublic health hazard inContemporary Moral Issues, a coursetaught by School President andPrincipal Father Allain Caparas.Students who take the class canreceive college credits through SetonHall University and Saint PeterUniversity.

If you want to see an extraordinarycollection of cakes — and a commit-ted, coordinated community — visitthe Saint Joseph Regional School(Somers Point) Facebook page. Morethan 120 people came for tea (withreal china) and the chance to bid on acake. School supporters baked andbought cakes to donate, and local bak-eries donated cakes as well — morethan 60 cakes for the auction. Photosshow the cakes just kept on coming.

A Personal TouchOn Christmas Eve Assumption

Regional School Principal JoanDollinger posted a Christmas wishwith a photo of her decorated tree.The warm greeting prompted manyfamilies to do the same in reply, cre-ating a virtual gallery of beautifultrees and showing how one small ges-ture can welcome others into a circleof love.

Guardian Angels Regional School(Gibbstown) Principal Sister JerilynEinstein shared a photo of herself as ayoung Catholic school girl, completewith Barbie lunchbox and saddleshoes. Her uniform may be differentnow, but her smile is unmistakable.

Who sang at the wedding? WhenSaint Teresa Regional School(Runnemede) Art teacher Gianna Ritzgot married, she invited her students tosing in the ceremony.

Find us on FacebookIt’s easy to find South Jersey

Catholic Schools or any one of ourindividual schools on Facebook andother social media outlets, likeInstagram and Twitter. Many of ourschools have YouTube channels aswell. So come and visit, and be sure tolike, follow and share.

Gianna Ritz, Art teacher at Saint Teresa Regional School in Runnemede, cele-brated her wedding day with her students, who lent their voices in song on thespecial day.

Saint Joseph Regional School, Somers Point, held a sweet day for its commu-nity: high tea and a cake auction.

Visit and be sure to like, follow and share

By Peter G. Sánchez

WOODBURY — On the morning ofFriday, Jan. 10, at the GloucesterCounty Superior Courthouse here,Holy Angels School’s PreK-3 classcelebrated the legal adoption of theirclassmate, Moe Diezmos, by his par-ents Laura and Donald.

Beginning when he was 12 days old,Moe spent 1,339 days in foster care inthe Diezmos home. He now has a per-manent home with his legal parentsand 4-year-old brother, Zachary.

As Judge John J. Mattheussen presidedover the proceedings and declared theadoption, whoops and hollers came fromhis classmates and family who packedthe courtroom. Afterward the studentsand educators posed for group photoswith the happy family.

The day has “finalized the love” his

family and school community have forMoe, said his teacher, Yvette Verticelli.

“We’re his second family,” she con-tinued, referencing a boy who lovescoloring and building blocks.

How to follow a beautiful morning?With bowling and lunch, DonaldDiezmos said.

“It’s a great, memorable day,” theemotional father said.

By Brenda King

“God has truly smiled onme.” This is always myanswer whenever I am

asked, “How do you like teaching in aCatholic school?”

I was a teacher for 28 years beforetaking a job at a Catholic school, but itis truly a blessing to walk through thedoors of John Paul II Regional Schoolin Stratford each morning where I nowteach third grade.

Recently I was told that I wouldbe shadowed by a potential student.As teachers, we all know that beingthe “new kid” can be unnerving, tosay the least. So on the day of theshadowing I was worried. Howwould my students treat him?Would he be ostracized? And whatwould I do if these things hap-pened?

During prayer that morning Iprayed for God’s guidance, to giveme the words that would help this

new child and all of my studentsshow acceptance.

As it turns out, all of my worrieswere unfounded. Every student in myclassroom welcomed the prospectivestudent with open arms. Throughoutthe day, my students could be heardnot only helping our new friend butalso telling him what a great job hewas doing. I was never more proud tocall myself a “teacher.” The boys andgirls taught me a lesson that day. Thevalues and love that we learn in our

school are a part of them.Our shadow, Matthew Salamon,

decided that John Paul II was theschool for him and is now a part of ourclass. He was supposed to shadow atanother school, but told his parentsthat he wanted to be in our classroombecause we made him feel so wel-come.

Brenda King teaches third grade atSaint John Paul II Regional School,Stratford.


Brenda King, third grade teacher at Saint John Paul II Regional School, Stratford, has her hands on the shoulders of Matthew Salamon, who recently enrolled in the school.

‘I was never so proud to call myself a teacher’

Moe is adopted, and his wholeclass celebrates with him

Judge John J. Mattheussen gets ahigh five from Moe Diezmos on Jan.10, his adoption day.

Photos by Peter G. Sánchez

Laura and Donald Diezmos smile at Moe, who they have raised since he wasdays old and adopted on Jan. 10. Moe’s Holy Angels pre-school classattended the proceedings.


By Joan Dollinger

Last year while on Facebook, Inoticed that a friend posted sev-eral pictures of mats that she

helped to create for persons who areexperiencing homelessness. The matswere made from plastic shopping bagsand put together with a loom. Iremembered thinking, what a greatidea to give to persons who are experi-encing homelessness.

The mat can be placed on theirsleeping bag or box for extra warmthand support. This was personal for mebecause I serve on the Board ofDirectors of Cape Hope, a faith-basedorganization in Cape May Countywhose mission is to assist those desir-ing to overcome the physical, emotion-al and financial barriers that keep themfrom permanent housing and guidethem to achieve their goals to re-enterthe community.

My mind started to ponder if theAssumption Regional Catholic Schoolcommunity might be able to makethese mats during Catholic SchoolsWeek 2019. I reached out to our artteacher, who thought it was an amaz-ing idea and one that we could man-age. We sent out word to the parents tosend in plastic shopping bags (whichthey did in massive number), and thenMrs. Giardina got to work building theloom.

During Catholic Schools Week,each student had the opportunity toweave several rows to create themats. It was a beautiful sight to gointo the Art Room and watch our stu-dents working. Each student usedhis/her hands in weaving the mat inorder to help improve the life of aperson experiencing homelessness.The project continued after CatholicSchools Week and so far we havecompleted four of them. We willcontinue this project during CatholicSchools Week 2020.

The “Sleeping Mat” project hasmany benefits: students using theirhands, working together, assisting per-sons in need, and an opportunity to“recycle” plastic bags. It is truly aproject where compassion meets thearts and ecology. Whatsoever you dothe least of my brothers and sisters,you do to me. Jesus’ words are defi-nitely a part of this project!

Cape Hope is forever grateful tohave been gifted the mats, and distrib-uted them to those most in need. Theylook forward to even more mats beingcompleted during Catholic SchoolsWeek 2020.

Joan Dollinger is principal ofAssumption Regional Catholic School,Galloway.

Students of Assumption Regional School, Galloway, hold a mat they helped create. At press time, four mats have goneto the homeless, and the project will continue throughout this year’s Catholic Schools Week.

The mats are made on a loom thatwas created by the school’s artteacher. “It is truly a project wherecompassion meets the arts and ecol-ogy,” said Joan Dollinger, Principal ofAssumption Regional.

Compassion meets the arts and ecology


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With excellent academics, personalized attention, and a quality curriculumrooted in the Gospel values, Bishop McHugh School offers the safe and

supportive environment where students excel.

● Catholic School Education ● Social-Emotional Learning ● BullyingPrevention Program ● Innovative University of Notre Dame (ACE) curriculum● Spacious, 23-acre campus for nature walks, science activities, and sports● Beautiful STREAM garden (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, TheArts & Math)/ Outdoor Learning Space ● 6:1 Student-to-Staff Member Ratio● 14 Student Average Class Size ● Extra- and Co-Curricular Clubs● Before and After Care ● Tuition Assistance Available

PreK classes for ages 2 to 5Kindergarten through Grade 8

Accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges And Schools2221 Rt. 9 North, Cape May Court House (Dennis Twp.), NJ 08210

609-624-1900 www.bishopmchugh.com

Con excelente base académica, atención personalizada y un plan de estudios decalidad arraigado en los valores evangélicos, la Escuela Bishop McHugh ofrece

un ambiente seguro y de apoyo donde los estudiantes sobresalen.

● Educación escolar católica ● Aprendizaje socioemocional ● Programa deprevención de intimidación/acoso escolar ● Plan de estudios innovador de la

Universidad de Notre Dame (ACE) ● Amplio campus de 23 acres para cami-natas por la naturaleza, actividades científicas y deportes. ● Hermoso jardín

STREAM (Ciencia, Tecnología, Religión, Ingeniería, Artes y Matemáticas) /Espacio de aprendizaje al aire libre ● Proporción 6: 1 de estudiante por miembro del personal ● Tamaño promedio de clase de 14 estudiantes ● Clubes extra y co-curriculares ● Cuidado antes y después de la escuela

● Asistencia de matrícula disponible

Clases de PreK para edades de 2 a 5Kindergarten hasta octavo grado

Acreditado por la Asociación de Colegios y Escuelas de los Estados del Medio


SERVICE WITH A SMILE —Good Shepherd School inCollingswood honored Dr. MartinLuther King, Jr., with a day ofservice on Friday, Jan. 17. After aprayer service, students in grades6 through 8 left the building to dovolunteer work at two locations.Some went to Saint John of GodCommunity Services in WestvilleGrove, a nonprofit, non-sectarianagency providing educational,therapeutic and vocational pro-grams for people with disabilities.Other students went to LUCYOutreach, which offers multi-lin-gual services to low-incomeCamden County teens and youngadults ages 12-25, and their fami-lies. The younger students stayedat the school and worked on proj-ects for Ronald McDonald House.

Photos by Debbie Troy

By Marianela Nuñez

“Lord, why you did not enlightenme to send my girls to Catholic

school from the very beginning?” That was Daysi Rodríguez’ response

when asked why she chose a Catholicschool for her daughters Dajeleen, age11 and Dayleen, age 13.

The Rodriguez family arrived atSaint Peter School in Merchantville in2018 looking for a school that wouldgive them more than an academic edu-cation. Although Daysi went to aCatholic elementary school, shethought Catholic school would befinancially impossible for her family.

Saint Peter principal Joseph Saffiotisaid the family was passing the schoolone day and Daysi dared to enter. Sheattributes her boldness to the Holy Spirit.

“The Holy Spirit took me to thebuilding and made it work,” saidDaysi, who describes herself as awoman of strong faith. She said sheand her husband, Francisco, havealways tried to give their best to theirtwo daughters.

Daysi and Francisco were both bornin La Vega, Dominican Republic. Hegrew up there, but Daysi came to theUnited States at age 4 with her mother.She and Francisco both grew upCatholic.

“I have a strong faith. I preferred mydaughters to be in a Catholic school sothat apart from academics they wouldalso have the spiritual aspect,” sheexplained. “I went to a Catholic schooland had a very good experience. Forme, it is very important that my girlsgo to Mass and have adoration andpray the rosary, which they do at theschool on a regular basis.”

For this Hispanic family withDominican roots, faith is an integralpart of their daily lives.

“Everything about the school hasimpacted me,” said Daysi. “One feelspeace upon entering the building. Thereis a great presence of God. I love thatbefore and after each class, they pray.Without God there is nothing.” She saidthat in Principal Saffioti she sees a manof God, a spiritual and faith-filled per-son who integrates religion and prayer

throughout the curriculum. “My girls went to a public school,

and the education was very different.Catholic schools are quieter and moreorganized. I also find that the Catholicschool is more advanced academical-ly,” Daysi said, adding that she wantedher girls to be able to speak openlyabout God, which they now have thefreedom to do.

Principal Saffioti believes theRodríguez family and the school are agreat fit. “This family is wonderful.They are an example of anything wehope for in any Catholic family thatcomes to us,” he said.

While Daysi said the most importantdifference in a Catholic school is faithformation, she shared that Dajeleen didnot feel academically challenged in herprior school. At Saint Peter she is tak-ing all honors classes and, as a fifth

grader, is in the sixth grade acceleratedmath program. Dayleen is also flour-ishing academically, and both girls arehappy in their school community.Saffioti could not speak more highlyabout the sisters, whom he describes asbright, dedicated and hardworking.

Dayleen will move on to high schoolin the fall. Daysi said that, through theapplication process, some of theCatholic high schools have compli-mented Dayleen’s writing skills, com-paring them to college level. Daysiattributes Dayleen’s mastery to theschool’s strong focus on writing skills.

Daysi said she participates in whatshe can and she feels that theRodríguez family has always felt wel-comed in the in the Saint Peter commu-nity. They find the children in the com-munity to be polite and respectful, andschool events beautiful and welcoming.

“I advise any parent to make thissacrifice for their children, because itis something that is given to them for alifetime. Catholic education is price-less. It is worth the sacrifice to spendless on material things and put thatmoney toward your children’s educa-tion,” she said.

Marianela Nuñez is Field Consultantfor Latino Enrollment, Diocese ofCamden.

“Everything about the schoolhas impacted me.”

Daysi Rodríguez, parent

Saint Peter School, Merchantville

‘Catholic education is priceless,’ parent says


It takes about six minutes to get theentire Camden Catholic HighSchool community assembled in

the school auditorium. That is wherethey go on Wednesdays forConvocation, right after first period.It’s like an all-school homeroom, start-ing with prayer and the Pledge ofAllegiance. Next up is the news team,delivering in person the announce-ments, weather and sports recap thatare otherwise broadcast during home-room.

When school Father Joseph Capella,rector of the Cherry Hill School, getsup and says, “God is good,” studentsreply in unison, “All the time,” with-out missing a beat. To his “All thetime,” they proclaim, “God is good.”

Introduced by Father Capella duringCatholic Schools Week 2019,Convocation lasts 20 minutes mostweeks; a bit longer when the programincludes Mass. “My vision was tobuild on our sense of family and unity,for everyone to be in the same room atthe same time hearing the same mes-sage,” he said.

Father Capella admits that when heinitiated the program he didn’t have along-range plan for content. But cre-ating an agenda hasn’t been a prob-lem. He and principal Heather Criscihave mapped out a schedule for theremainder of the school year. Wherethey once hoped they could getenough students to lead some of thepresentations, they are now getting asmany as three requests a week fromstudents who want to play an activerole. By all accounts, Convocationhas exceeded Father Capella’s expec-tations.

On a recent January Wednesday,sophomore Gabe Tillman acceptedFather Capella’s invitation to speakabout a major health challenge hefaced freshman year and how it ties tothe pro-life movement.

“Wow. That’s a lot of people,” saidGabe from the podium, looking intothe sea of students, teachers andadministrators.

He spoke about the craniopharyn-gioma — a benign brain tumor of thepituitary gland — that kept him out ofschool for more than a month duringthe second semester of his freshmanyear.

“When you normally think aboutpro-life you think about the war onabortion,” said Gabe. “Well, this maybe a very important issue but it’s notall [the pro-life movement] stands for.To be pro-life is to be supportive of allpeople in need.”

Gabe expressed gratitude for hisgood health and for all the support hereceived from the Camden Catholiccommunity. He also announced a toydrive he is initiating for other patientsat CHOP. “I wanted to help the placethat helped me,” he said later.

“Every step we take is a pro-lifemovement if we treat people withcharity, with love. Pro-life is how weinteract with one another,” said FatherCapella to the community after Gabespoke. “Gabe is going to do somethingwith his experience to help other kids.That’s being pro-life.”

Father Capella also reminded stu-dents about the importance of self-careand seeking help from others. “Be pro-life by caring for yourselves so thatyou can give to others what God hasgiven to you,” he said.

Father Edward Kennedy, Director ofCatholic Identity for the school, endedConvocation by blessing the approxi-mately 50 Camden Catholic studentswho planned to participate in theNational March for Life inWashington, D.C. on Jan. 24.

Student body president Harry Kellersees Convocation as a positive newtradition at Camden Catholic. “It’s all-encompassing for students. It bringseveryone together … helps the studentbody recognize each other,” he said.Harry used Gabe’s presentation as anexample. “I didn’t really know Gabe’sstory until today. I wouldn’t normallyget to see sophomores.”

Principal Crisci explained that, inaddition to adoration, benediction andMass, Convocation is a great forum forpreviewing plays and concerts, wel-coming outside speakers, and celebrat-ing cultural events like Black History,Hispanic Heritage and Women’sHistory months. The topics are linedup in advance, and students can ask topresent on a given topic. “It’s a greatopportunity for public speaking, pre-sentations and performance,” saidCrisci.

She and Father Capella agree thatrecognizing students’ accomplishmentsis particularly special at Convocation.“When someone in a family accom-plishes something, all in the familyshould share it,” said Father Capella.

Crisci added, “That is how we liveas members of the Camden CatholicCommunity.”


Weekly Convocation is family time at Camden Catholic

530

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Reading and Writing Mathematics

Average SAT Scores: Class of 2019Diocese of Camden NJ

— 1,101 graduates — $200,453,035 combined academ-

ic and athletic scholarship offers — Almost 97 percent enrolled in

college — 7 National Merit Commended

Scholars

— 1 National Merit Finalist— 574 (52%) took Advanced

Placement courses— 3 West Point and 2 Coast Guard

military academy appointments— 3 ROTC scholarships— 6 enlisted for military service

Class Profile: South Jersey CatholicHigh Schools Class of 2019

Gabe Tillman speaks about pro-life issues and a health challenge he faced at arecent Convocation at Camden Catholic High School, Cherry Hill. The schoolencourages students to give presentations at its Convocations, and many haveresponded.

“My vision was to build on oursense of family and unity, for

everyone to be in the same roomat the same time hearing the

same message.”Father Joseph Capella,

Rector, Camden Catholic High School


By Sydney Clark Catholic News Service

WASHINGTON — The mission andfoundation of Catholic education aredirectly related to evangelization, saidthe head of the National CatholicEducational Association.

Catholic schools are obligated toevangelize simply because that is thecore and mission of the CatholicChurch, according to ThomasBurnford, president and CEO of theNCEA.

“The apostles told the good news ofJesus Christ, and Catholic schools arean essential and integral ministry ofthe Catholic Church,” he told CatholicNews Service.

Nationwide, 1.8 million students areenrolled in 6,300 Catholic schools, henoted. Additionally, 80% of studentsare Catholic, and the remaining 20%are non-Catholic.

Despite the percentage difference,the mission of Catholic education isthe same for Catholic and non-Catholic students, Burnford explained.

“The teaching of the faith, the waywe witness the Catholic faith fully toCatholic students is the same for allstudents. All students are invited andwelcomed to participate fully in thewhole culture of the school, the forma-tion of the school and the life of theschool,” Burnford said.

Evangelization is present withinschools because students are presentedwith a Catholic worldview that revealsthe reality of God and the Gospelthrough the curriculum, he said.

“In that way, we are evangelizingstudents by giving them a real under-standing of the world and society.Everyone in a Catholic school is beingmoved along in the process of evange-lization and outreach,” Burnford said.

Acknowledging the inherent rela-tionship between Catholic educationand evangelization in the presence offaith, community and identity, PopeFrancis in a June 2018 address said:“Schools and universities need to beconsistent and show continuitybetween their foundational missionand the church’s mission of evange-lization.”

He delivered the address to membersof the Gravissimum EducationisFoundation, which he established inOctober 2015 at the invitation of theCongregation for Catholic Educationto commemorate the 50th anniversaryof the Second Vatican Council’sDeclaration on Christian Education.

In that same address, Pope Francis

proposed a challenge to members ofthe foundation, which aims to renewthe church’s dedication to Catholiceducation, saying: “To fulfill your mis-sion, therefore, you must lay its foun-dations in a way consistent with ourChristian identity, establish meansappropriate for the quality of study andresearch and pursue goals in harmonywith service to the common good.”

Elisabeth Sullivan, executive direc-tor of the Institute for Catholic LiberalEducation, identified roles withinCatholic schools that help bringCatholic and non-Catholic studentstogether. “I think Catholic schoolshave a unique opportunity to providehope in a world that is increasingly

beset by hopelessness. A world with-out God is a world without hope,”Sullivan said.

Sullivan believes that Catholic edu-cation is uniquely distinct from othereducation systems due to its long tradi-tion of conveying the inherent andinseparable relationship between faithand reason. Consequently, Catholicschools “restore what the industrial-ized model of education has strippedfrom the classroom — an understand-ing of the meaning and purpose ofthings,” she told CNS.

Catholic education asks the deeperquestions, regarding the nature ofsomething and its purpose, accordingto Sullivan. “Secular education can’t

offer that, can’t decide on a meaningor a purpose, so it has to stay away,and therefore, it’s incomplete,” sheexplained.

Mary Pat Donoghue, executivedirector of the Secretariat of CatholicEducation at the U.S. Conference ofCatholic Bishops in Washington,expressed a similar viewpoint regard-ing evangelization efforts withinCatholic schools. Donoghue saidbecause formation in a Catholic schoolis integral, students are not solelytaught religious doctrine in a religioncourse.

“What we seek to do is bring for-ward the church’s intellectual traditionand form their minds in all of the con-tent and areas that they study. This isan excellent tool of evangelizationbecause it exposes kids not just toCatholic practices, regarding prayerand liturgy, but also to a Catholicunderstanding of reality.”

Donoghue is hopeful that Catholicschools will continue to fulfill theirmission of bringing children andyoung adults into a relationship withChrist.

As populations shift, she said, manyCatholic schools will be located innew areas, creating a changing land-scape. However, Donoghue said thatCatholic education in America hasbeen around for centuries and “willrenew itself by turning toward thechurch's own tradition and that can bethe way forward in the future.”

Catholic schools called ‘essential, integral’to church’s ministry of evangelization

Photo by Mike Walsh

Students provide the music during the diocesan-wide school Mass on Dec. 9, 2019, at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Glassboro.

“I think Catholic schools have aunique opportunity to provide

hope in a world that is increasingly beset by

hopelessness.”Elisabeth Sullivan, executive director of the Institute for

Catholic Liberal Education


Elementary Schools

Assumption Regional Catholic SchoolGalloway

609-652-7134, www.assumptionregional.org

Bishop McHugh Regional Catholic SchoolCape May Court House

609-624-1900, www.bishopmchugh.com

Bishop Schad Regional SchoolVineland

856-691-4490, www.bsrschool.us

Cape Trinity Catholic SchoolNorth Wildwood

609-522-2704, www.capetrinitycatholic.org

The Catholic Partnership Schools (CPS)856-338-0966

www.catholicpartnershipschools.orgHoly Name School – 856-365-7930

Sacred Heart School – 856-963-1341Saint Anthony of Padua School –

856-966-6791Saint Joseph Pro-Cathedral School –

856-964-4336Pennsauken

Saint Cecilia School – 856-662-0149

Christ the King Regional SchoolHaddonfield

856-429-2084, www.ckrs.org

Good Shepherd Regional Catholic SchoolCollingswood

856-858-1562,www.goodshepherdcollingswood.org

Guardian Angels Regional SchoolPre-K-3rd grade: Gibbstown

4th-8th grade: Paulsboro856-423-9440, www.gars-online.com

Holy Angels Catholic SchoolWoodbury

856-848-6826, www.holyangelswoodbury.org

Our Lady of Hope Regional SchoolBlackwood

856-227-4442,www.ourladyofhopecatholicschool.org

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Regional SchoolBerlin

856-767-1751, www.olmc-school.org

Our Lady Star of the Sea Regional SchoolAtlantic City

609-345-0648, www.olssac.org

Resurrection Catholic SchoolCherry Hill

856-667-3034, www.rcscherryhill.com

Saint John Paul II Regional SchoolStratford

856-783-3088, www.jp2rs.org

Saint Joseph Regional Elementary SchoolHammonton

609-704-2400, www.stjosephprek8.org

Saint Joseph Regional School Somers Point

609-927-2228, www.sjrs.org

Saint Margaret Regional SchoolWoodbury Heights

856-845-5200, www.stmargarets-rs.org

Saint Mary SchoolVineland

856-692-8537, www.smrschool.org

Saint Mary SchoolWilliamstown

856-629-6190, www.smarys.org

Saint Michael the Archangel Regional SchoolClayton

856-881-0067, www.smrsonline.com

Saint Peter SchoolMerchantville

856-665-5879, www.stpeterschool.org

Saint Rose of Lima SchoolHaddon Heights

856-546-6166, www.strosewebsite.com

Saint Teresa Regional SchoolRunnemede

856-939-1207, www.stteresaschool.org

Saint Vincent de Paul Regional SchoolMays Landing609-625-1565

www.svdprs.com

Diocesan Catholic

High Schools

Camden Catholic High SchoolCherry Hill

856-663-2247www.camdencatholic.org

Gloucester Catholic Junior Senior HighSchool

Gloucester 856-456-4400

www.gchsrams.org

Holy Spirit High SchoolAbsecon

609-646-3000www.holyspirithighschool.com

Paul VI High SchoolHaddonfield

856-858-4900www.pvihs.org

Saint Joseph High SchoolHammonton

609-561-8700www.stjoek12.org

Wildwood Catholic High SchoolNorth Wildwood

609-522-7257www.wildwoodcatholic.org

Private Catholic High

Schools

Bishop Eustace Preparatory SchoolPennsauken

856-662-2160www.eustace.org

Our Lady of Mercy AcademyNewfield

856-697-2008www.olmanj.org

Saint Augustine Preparatory School Richland

856-697-2600www.hermits.com

Catholic Schools

in the Diocese of Camden


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Grade 7

Grade 6

Grade 5

Grade 4

Grade 3

Average Iowa Assessment Percentile Scores: MathDiocese of Camden National Average

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Grade 7

Grade 6

Grade 5

Grade 4

Grade 3

Average Iowa Assessment Percentile Scores: English/Language Arts

Diocese of Camden National Average


at Georgian Court University— The Mercy University of New Jersey!

Learn more aboutour programs, our values, andour CatholicMercy mission.

georgian.edu/visit

Expand possibility

Georgian Court University does not discriminate in its recruitment and admission of students, regardless of gender, race, creed, color, religion, age, national and ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status.

at Georgian Court University— The Mercy University of New Jersey!

Learn more aboutour programs, our values, andour CatholicMercy mission.

georgian.edu/visit

Expand possibility

Georgian Court University does not discriminate in its recruitment and admission of students, regardless of gender, race, creed, color, religion, age, national and ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status.

OPEN HOUSE & PANCAKE BREAKFAST

Sunday, January 26th 9 am—12 noon Join us for a Pancake Breakfast and school tour! Meet students, teachers and parents and learn why St. Vincent’s could be the perfect place for your child to learn and grow!

OPEN HOUSE & FAMILY STEM NIGHT

Thursday, February 13th 6 pm—8 pm Enjoy a Family STEM experience — interact with students, parents, teachers and principal, all in the spirit of fun and learning! saintvinnys st.vincentdepaulregionalschool

5809 Main Street Mays Landing, NJ 08330

St. Vincent de Paul Regional School www.svdprs.com [email protected] 609-625-1565

nceneneneneenennneeeneee t

! !

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!

Is your child looking at high schools? Visit Holy Spirit and Shadow a Spartan! The best introduction to a new school is through self-discovery.

Prospective students have the opportunity to spend time in the classrooms to meet the faculty, learn alongside students and truly discover the vibrant Holy Spirit culture.

Holy Spirit High School 500 S. New Road Absecon, NJ 08201

Give the gift of a Catholic Education. Enroll your child or make a gift to support a Holy Spirit student.

Visit Holy SpiritHighSchool.com or Call (609) 646-3000

st.vincentdepaulregionalschool saintvinnys

Por Marianela Nuñez

¿Señor, por qué no me iluminasteantes para haberlas puesto desde elprincipio en una escuela católica?Fueron las palabras de DaysiRodríguez al responder por qué eligióuna escuela católica.

La familia Rodríguez llegó a laescuela St. Peter en Merchantville enel 2018 buscando una escuela que lediera algo más que educaciónacadémica a sus dos hijas Dajeleen 11,y Dayleen 13. Daysi fue a una escuelacatólica primaria pero nunca se atrevióa indagar en las escuelas católicas delárea porque pensaba que erafinancieramente imposible para sufamilia.

El director de la escuela, JosephSaffioti, dice que la familia pasaba porla escuela un día y Daysi se atrevió aentrar. Ella le atribuye su osadía alEspíritu Santo. “El Espíritu Santo mellevo al edifico” dijo Daysi, quien sedescribe como una mujer de fe fuerte yque junto a su esposo Francisco hantratado siempre de darle lo mejor a susdos hijas.

Francisco creció en La Vega R.D. yDaysi tiene raíces del mismo pueblo,aunque ella vino a los EE. UU. con sumamá a los 4 años. Los Rodriguez soncatólicos activos. Las niñas han servi-do de monaguillos de la iglesia yDaysi es lectora y ministro de laEucaristía.

Para esta familia hispana con raícesdominicanas la fe es parte integral dela familia y es por esto que se siententan bendecidos. “A mí me ha impacta-

do todo de la escuela. Uno siente unapaz al entrar al edificio. Siente que hayuna presencia grande de Dios. Meencanta que antes y después de cadaclase hacen oración. Sin Dios no haynada”, dijo Daysi.

“Tengo una fe firme, así que prefer-ía a mis hijas en una escuela católicapara que aparte de una educaciónacadémica tuvieran también una edu-cación espiritual. Yo también fui a unaescuela católica y tuve una muy lindaexperiencia. Para mí es muy impor-tante que mis niñas vayan a Misa yque tengan adoración al Santísimo yrecen el rosario, reflexionó.

“Este es el segundo año escolar demis niñas en St. Peter y he podido verque el director es una persona de Diosy de mucha oración, y esto es lo que serespira en la escuela St. Peter. Laespiritualidad y la oración son activi-dades integradas en el currículo de losestudiantes”, añadió.

Cuando Daysi reflexiona acerca delcambio dice: “Mis niñas iban a unaescuela pública y la educación es muydiferente. Yo encuentro que la escuelacatólica está más avanzada en loacadémico y yo quería que mis niñaspudieran hablar libremente de Dios, esun ambiente más tranquilo y organiza-do.” La fe de Daysi y su familia espalpable y el director de la escuelacomenta que no podría hablar mejor deellos: “Esta familia es maravillosa yson un ejemplo de lo que esperamosde una familia católica que llega anosotros”, dijo Saffioti.

Es claro que para Daysi lo másimportante de una escuela católica es

la formación en la fe, sin embargo, enla entrevista ella expresó también quesu hija menor Dajeleen no se sentía losuficientemente estimulada académica-mente en la escuela donde asistía ante-riormente. En St. Peter descubrieronque ella necesitaba clases más avan-zadas. Ahora Dajeleen está tomandotodas las clases de honor ofrecidas enSt. Peter y aunque está en 5to gradoestá tomando matemáticas de 6to

grado en el programa acelerado dematemáticas. Así mismo, Dayleen pro-gresa increíblemente en la escuela yambas son muy felices en su comu-nidad escolar. Saffioti piensa que lashermanas son muy brillantes y dedi-cadas y se siente afortunado de tener-las en su escuela.

Dayleen pasará a la escuela secun-daria en el otoño. Daysi dijo que,durante el proceso de solicitud, algu-nas de las escuelas secundarias católi-cas han felicitado las habilidades deescritura de Dayleen, comparándolascon el nivel universitario. Daysiatribuye el dominio de Dayleen alfuerte enfoque de la escuela en lashabilidades de escritura.

La familia Rodriguez ha encontradomás de lo que buscaban en St. Peter.Para Daysi el ambiente escolar es muyorganizado, encuentra que los niñosson muy educados y respetuosos. Loseventos son muy bonitos y acogedores.Ella trata de participar en lo que puedey siente que como familia hispana hansido bienvenidos por la comunidad.

Daysi culminó diciendo: “Yo leaconsejo a cualquier padre o madreque haga ese sacrifico por sus hijos,porque es un regalo que se les da paratoda una vida. La educación católica esalgo que no tiene precio y vale la penadejar de comprar tantas otras cosasmateriales para utilizar el dinero parasu educación”.

Marianela Nuñez es Consultora deInscripciones Latinas en la Oficina deEscuelas Católicas de la Diócesis deCamden.

Estimadas hermanas y hermanos, Durante mi sacerdocio, y mis 15

años como obispo, las escuelasCatólicas siempre han sido una priori-dad para mi ministerio.Independientemente deltamaño de la escuelaCatólica, cada una tiene unpapel igualmente impor-tante que desempeñar en lasociedad y para la Iglesia.Nuestras escuelas se tomanmuy enserio la educación yla llevan a cabo con exce-lencia. No solo nuestrosestudiantes se benefician deellas, sino también nuestraiglesia y nuestra nación.

Aunque los planes deestudio evolucionan, nuestros valoresfundamentales continúan resistiendo laprueba del tiempo. Si bien los puntajesde los exámenes, las becas, las tasas deaceptación universitaria y las trayecto-rias profesionales reflejan todas las

ventajas académicas significativas denuestras escuelas, lo que realmente nosdistingue es nuestra capacidad deinfundir nuestra fe y cultura Católicas

en cada elemento del díaescolar, incluyendo lasactividades extracurricu-lares. La moral cristiana, laética y la caridad se aplicana cada área temática.Aunque la filosofía de laeducación Católica sedesarrolló hace muchos sig-los, continúa iluminandonuestro enfoque de la edu-cación. En pocas palabras,la educación Católica esuna educación de toda lapersona: mente, alma y

cuerpo porque así es como Dios creó alos seres humanos. Un estudiante enuna escuela católica crece en mente, enespíritu y en cuerpo.

Como educadores Católicos, ten-emos la libertad de aportar valores a

nuestros estudiantes y familias a travésdel mensaje de Jesús. Por ejemplo, enlas escuelas Católicas podemos cele-brar pública y orgullosamente una cul-tura de la vida, donde los estudiantesaprenden a participar, respetar y servira los demás. El ambiente de la escuelaestá impregnado por Jesucristo, elEvangelio, la oración, la fe y los sacra-mentos de la iglesia Católica. Laescuela incluso mira más allá de suspuertas hacia el mundo exterior delcual el estudiante se responsabiliza.

A menudo usamos la frase "Un rega-lo de por vida" cuando nos referimos anuestras escuelas Católicas. En todaslas facetas, esto es cierto. Una edu-cación escolar Católica es el regaloque un padre le da a su hijo; es el rega-lo que ofrecemos al mundo al propor-cionar futuros líderes bien formados,inteligentes y compasivos. Puedo testi-ficar personalmente que es el regaloque recibí como estudiante en los añoscincuenta en una escuela primaria

Católica, en los años sesenta en unaescuela secundaria Católica y en unauniversidad Católica. Es el don que meayudó a discernir mi vocación al sacer-docio

Si está buscando una escuela, o sabede alguien que está buscando, lerecomiendo que considere una escuelaCatólica y ofrezca a su hijo y almundo un regalo de por vida. Un rega-lo que formará y educará a su hijo. Lasescuelas Católicas funcionan y sonexitosas académica, espiritual yhumanamente. En la diócesis deCamden tenemos un producto del queestoy muy orgulloso.

Sinceramente en Cristo,

Reverendísimo Dennis Sullivan,D.D.

Obispo de Camden


COLUMNADEL OBISPO

Bishop Dennis J. Sullivan

DAYLEEN Y DAJELEENRODRÍGUEZ

Las escuelas Católicas funcionan

‘La educación católica no tiene precio’


Wildwood Catholic High School

Celebrates Catholic Schools Week

Enrolling Now for grades 9 through 12

Critical Thinkers - Rooted in Faith - Leaders for Life

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Cape Trinity CatholicCelebrates Catholic Schools Week

Enrolling Now for Pre-K through grade 8

Come learn about our record of academic excellence and

our commitment to nurturing students who will celebrate

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Documents

Catholic Schools Week · 2020. 3. 31. · Throughout my priesthood, and my 15 years as a bishop, Catholic schools have always been a priority for my ministry. Irrespective of the