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I once heard laughter described as “carbonated holiness,” a

phrase that strikes me as apt whenever I walk through the

Visitation hallways. I see braces and Band-Aids, tangible signs of

growth, of straightening and healing. I see decorated lockers and

stuffed backpacks, golf clubs and violin cases. And amid that

spinning kaleidoscope of childhood and adolescence, I see a

sacred purpose.

To partner with you in educating your children is the greatest

privilege we can imagine. We do everything possible to meet their

academic, emotional, social and spiritual needs, which demand

of us a grounding sense of past and a daring vision of future –

history and possibility, tradition and innovation. They dwell

together here, sealed by the Sisters’ gentle smiles and fervent

prayers.

Whether you are seeking childcare for your infant or college-

prep instruction for your teen, consider making this special place

their second home.

When I hear their peals of laughter, I know our students are

embracing the adventure of education and absorbing the

Salesian virtues we instill: liberty of spirit, joyful confidence,

cheerfulness and humility. They are learning to be who they are

and be that well. How good it is to be driven by such a clear

purpose. The rest of their lives will be shaped by the work we are

doing here and now.

Dawn Nichols, Ed.D.

Head of School

Embracing the adventure of education

A message from the head of school

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Academically, Visitation teachers draw on the past and tap

into the future, applying innovative 21st-century methods to

rigorous traditional instruction. Intellect is celebrated at

Visitation. Students realize it is cool to be smart. They become

lifelong learners whose insatiable curiosity makes every day

an adventure.

The beauty of a Visitation education is the way reason meets

faith. For decades the Sisters, faculty and staff at Visitation

have nurtured faith. It is a lasting gift.

In a noisy world, our students understand the value of silence.

Prayer is woven throughout the school day, starting with a

daily offering and culminating with all-school Masses, when

hands are extended, voices are lifted and prayers are said

together.

“For the 13 years I have attended Visitation, I have been

blessed with the utmost care and trust from my

teachers. My education has been enriched with

challenging academics, problem-solving techniques,

and social skills infused with Salesian leadership. Now

it is my turn to use these tools, not just for future

schooling, but for life. Visitation has given me the

strength, in all aspects of my life, to accept others for

who they truly are, and I continue to aspire to be a

positive role model for others.”

Elizabeth ‘10

Head & Heart In the classic Catholic tradition, VisitationSchool provides an education of the highestform, integrating the mind, body and spirit. One feeds another.

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Spiritual development begins in relationships.

Students grow in relationship with God, in relationship

with the Visitation community and in relationship with

the broader community.

Visitation School spans every age, from two-week-

old infants to 90-year-old nuns. There is something

remarkable about having that spectrum under one

roof. It allows for friendships of every shape and size:

prayer partners, playmates, mentors, academic

tutors, sports captains, and more.

Within these intricate social layers, Visitation students

develop a respect for the young and the old. They

cultivate a faith that is at once personal and

communal. And they discover the secret of service:

when much is given, even more is received. “Visitation continues to be a place where relationshipsare rich soil for my experience of God. As a student atage 14, I did not yet appreciate that I was makingfriends for life. These friends continue to inspire andencourage me to strive for wholeness and holiness.Visitation has always been a second home of nurturing-- of discovering that joy comes in relationships and inthe simplicity of a service-oriented life. I have beeninspired by the Visitation Sisters, who are deeplycommitted to living a way of life guided by the Salesiantradition of ‘great humility before God and greatgentleness with neighbor.’”

Anne ‘82, Director of Salesian Studies 3

"Our daughter Hannah graduated in 2007, and our youngest daughter, Grace, now a sixthgrader, began her Visitation education in Montessori. We believe our children have

received unparalleled academic development. However, ourlove for Visitation goes much deeper. We have found a strongsense of community that is grounded in the hearts of theSisters and present in our relationships with other parents andreflected in the social awareness of our daughters. Ultimately,we have come to grasp the true fabric of this place: theintellect and community that stands upon its Catholic,Salesian character. The teachings of the founders St. Francis

de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal provide the Sisters, staff, students and parents accessto virtues that give life to our community."

Ron and Mary Beth, current parents

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Throughout all this formation, there is

an ever-present levity. Our faculty

believe learning should be fun.

Students are encouraged to play, to

take risks, to roll up their sleeves and

get their fingers dirty. When students

are having fun, mistakes do not feel

like disasters; they feel like hiccups.

“It is an honor and privilege to educate your childrenin our home. We help our young people see theirinfinite worth through a superb education so thatthey, in turn, can see the worth of others.”

Sr. Marie Thérèse Conaty ‘46

“Visitation is renowned for providing a first-rate educationrooted in the Christian tenets of Salesian Spirituality. Thisexcellence exists throughout all stages of Vis, from theearly childhood program to the Lower and Middle Schoolsand finally to the Upper School. Academically, myexperience was truly valuable, providing me with afoundation of study skills, communication tools, and awork ethic that I use every day. In addition to this strongeducational backbone, I have experienced Visitation’sfamous motto, non scholae, sed vitae, through the life-longfriendships I formed at Vis.”

Christian Pilhofer, sixth grade alumnus ‘99,with his sister Sophie ‘09

The important work of educationis achieved with heavy doses of

humor and heart.

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Our students enjoy state-of-the-art facilities that few

elementary schools can rival, including a 40-acre

campus, an eco-friendly outdoor classroom, a

cutting-edge computer lab, a dedicated art and

science suite, a professional-quality theater, a ballet

studio and an intimate chapel linking the school and

the Monastery. These facilities enhance our

environment, helping us stimulate young minds while

opening their hearts and stirring their souls.

“I love Vis because I get a good education and

there are good teachers. My favorite subjects

are science, math and gym. I like the learning

at Vis, and I have nice friends.”

Abraham, third grader

The first years of school lay the foundation for academic success, andVisitation’s faculty and staff takegreat care to provide the strongestfoundation possible. In our LowerSchool, students discover a safe,

loving community that empowers them to explore, create and grow.

Lower School

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"From an early age, we began learning the basics of ‘Live Jesus’ without

quite realizing it. Sharing with your neighbor, waiting your turn, playing

gently, and showing respect towards teachers and other students

became commonplace as we discovered the vast world around us. I

experienced this blessing each day at Visitation."

Becca ‘10

(attended Montessori preschool through grade 12)

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Incorporating technology is important to our

faculty. Smart Boards allow teachers to provide

instruction that is crystal clear. Another superb tool

our students benefit from is the PicoCricket, an

invention kit that integrates art and technology to

spark creative thinking.

Our faculty and staff make a point to demonstrate

the interconnectedness of every subject,

encouraging students to connect dots and

disciplines. They do this with a great spirit of

discovery. Laughter and smiles are hallmarks of

Visitation Lower School, where children delight in

uncovering new ground together. In doing so, they

create lasting bonds. So come, join our family!

“Every teacher seeks out lessons that move beyond the classroom

walls and last beyond the final bell. One of the things I appreciate

most about Visitation is its commitment to life-long learning. It

is displayed here on our flag when you first enter the building –

non scholae, sed vitae, not for school, but for life – and, more

importantly, it is carried out in every lesson taught.”

Steve, fifth grade teacher

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“We are raising our boys to become good men, and the

Visitation community uniquely provides them with an

awareness and expectation that sensitivity, kindness, hard

work and generosity are not optional. The spirit of the

school and the quiet but strong influence of the Visitation

Sisters leave no question that high standards are the norm

– academically, socially and spiritually. Very simply, we

love Visitation. It is unlike any other school, and we feel so

privileged to be part of this community.”

Brian, current parent and parent of alumnus

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Middle School is a place where independent spirits are celebrated. Our teachersare exceptional in that their knowledge and love of this age group shine through

all they do. Whether they are copingwith homework, acne, or the calculusof social networking, Middle School-aged children face challenges. But the

Visitation faculty is uniquely suited to guide your sons and daughters throughthe tender, tangled issues that arise with adolescence.

Middle School

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“I teach at Visitation because I am given the opportunity to beso much more than a teacher as a member of the Visitationcommunity. Besides being given the resources and support toteach a challenging and exciting class, I also get to be amentor, an advisor, and even a friend. This season I get to add‘Visitation parent’ to that list and now – more than ever – Iappreciate all that Visitation does for its students, itsteachers, and its families. It is both humbling and energizingto be a part of something so much bigger than me.”

Zindy, Middle School Science teacher

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It can be hard to keep up with the rapid

growth that preteens experience. Our

new “Gateway Year” Program is

designed to meet sixth-graders’

rapidly-changing academic, social and

emotional needs. Our teachers take

extra effort to prepare sixth-graders for

their Middle School experience. The

Gateway Year eases students through

that transition, enabling the girls to bond with Upper School students while

preparing the boys for Saint Thomas Academy.

We have found that seventh grade is an ideal time to begin single-gender

education for girls. Our seventh and eighth grade girls excel academically,

gaining added focus and confidence in the classroom – and beyond.

Suddenly they are taking on new leadership roles or finding other ways to

discover and express their individuality.

“At Visitation, we have awesome teachers

who help me learn and grow and dream!”

Frannie, Middle School student 13

Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) initiatives,

which utilize the model of inquiry and design, provide wonderful

opportunities for students to grow as innovators, inventors,

problem solvers, critical thinkers and clear communicators.

Our Middle Schoolers develop into spirited, independent learners

whose individuality is embraced and nurtured. They thrive in small

classes that spark big ideas. When they graduate from eighth

grade, they are joyful, confident leaders.

The middle years matter. Visitation makes the most of that pivotal juncture.

“Visitation has blessed our family for nearly a decade now. As parents of two

very active boys – Sam, age 14, who graduated from Visitation in 2009, and Jack,

age 8, a third grader in his sixth year at Vis – we have found the

familial environment and strong community, combined with the

exceptional academic program, to be the perfect school for our boys

and the perfect balance for our family. We are raising our sons to be

curious and voracious, lifelong learners but also kind and loving

children of God. The spiritual foundation and Salesian values of

Visitation echo our own family's values. They not only support our goals, they

advance them.”Ann, current parent and parent of alumnus

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Upper School is where the exuberance of adolescence takes on acertain elegance. Grace and wisdom abound. Here, young women

become lifelongleaders, nurturedby an exceptionalacademic and

spiritual environment. They benefit from the focus of single-sexclassrooms and the simplicity of single-sex hallways. It is aliberating experience.

Upper School

As students develop deep ties with classmates, they also

recognize their role within the Visitation family, mentoring the

younger students, trusting the teachers and emulating the Sisters.

They become leaders who are both visionary and humble.

Upper School students possess a sense of community and

responsibility. They see the bigger picture and dream of the

contributions they can make to it. These skills evolve in

concrete ways with courses and programs that are as rigorous

as they are rewarding. Throughout our courses, teachers help

students become strong writers and readers, articulate

communicators in English and world languages, and

compassionate citizens in an ever-changing world. We want

our girls to understand the importance of history and its impact

on the future, ask deep philosophical and moral questions, and

express themselves through the arts. We help girls explore

their natural and physical worlds through science, math and

engineering. And we always strive to make connections

between school and the world that these girls will enter in

college and beyond. 15

Our faculty members believe in the

long-term value of single-sex

education. They know Upper School

students will become strong women

and outstanding leaders who go on

to solve many of the 21st century’s

complex problems.

As our students refine their leadership

skills, they also take important strides

in self knowledge, learning how to

accept their gifts and their faults.

They embrace the qualities that make

them unique, celebrating individuality

amid great pressure to conform.

Their world is charged by possibility.

"The Sisters were not in our classrooms instructing us to memorize a quote,

but in the hallways pouring out Salesian spirituality from their hearts. There

is something so human about Salesian Spirituality that keeps drawing me

deeper. It does not call for perfection or withdrawal from society; Salesian

spirituality calls us to open our hearts to the love of God despite our own

imperfections. ‘Live Jesus’ is not a command we force on one another. It is

an invitation that asks Jesus to enter our hearts and work through us. It is a

simple prayer: Jesus, live in me and around me."

Claire ‘10 (attended Montessori preschool through grade 12)

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“I often think of my teachers at Vis asif they are my parents. Growing up,my parents always encouraged mysisters and me to have a goodrelationship with our teachers. Mymother, who was a school teacher in

Viet Nam,w o u l doften talkabout herf o r m e rstudentsand howshe lovedand cared

for them as if they were her own. Ifelt that my teachers showed thatsame care and concern for me. I feellucky and blessed to have had thisincredible opportunity to attend Vis.To experience the love, kindness andsupport from the Visitation facultyand staff was an extra gift.”

Oanh ‘94

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“Vis has an absolutely unique

academic environment. Students

are intellectually engaged and

clearly focused on ideas. We

have created an environment

where all of us are working

toward the same mission and

goals – a very powerful thing.”

Rich, Upper School teacher

“We selected Visitation because we

wanted strong academics and a faith-

based environment. Ten years later,

Visitation continues to be a great fit

for our three daughters. Vis has

connected with each in a way that we

know will guide them through their

lives, thus realizing the school motto

of not for school, but for life.”

John and Lisa, current parents

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Visitation students pursue the arts with grace and gusto. Itis a place where they can explore the edgesof the human experience – a well-timedpunchline and the power of a pause, arollicking march and a haunting

symphony, the profound essence of comedy and tragedy.

The Arts

“Visitation, to prepare me for New York University, specifically the TishSchool of Arts, was overwhelmingly delicate with my talent and what Iwanted to pursue. Vis has rigorous, college-prep academics, but at the sametime the theater and arts departments are outstanding, cultivatingwhatever students can give them.”

Kate ‘0619

LowerVocal and Instrumental Music (Montessori – grade 5)

Orchestra (grades 4 & 5)

Visual Arts (Kindergarten – grade 5)

MiddleVisual Arts

Vocal and Instrumental Music

Band

Orchestra

Co-curricular OpportunitiesMiddle School Musical (Vis and STA grades 6 - 8)

POPS vocal group (Vis 7th and 8th graders may try out)

UpperBallet

Theatre 101

Bel Canto Choir

Chamber Choir

VISTA Orchestra

VISTA Choir

VISTA Band

Co-curricular OpportunitiesVISTA Productions (the combined theater group of Visitation

and Saint Thomas Academy students in grades 9-12)

–Three main stage productions a year

–Scenic and Technical Crew

–VISTA Improv Team

–VISTA Theatre Council

Educating the whole student in mind, body

and spirit is a hallmark of Visitation. Our

young artists have fun learning about

balance. They seek symmetry as they look at

lines and examine textures. They observe the

interplay between a brilliant red and a muted

pastel, between a lead role and a supporting

role. And they come to appreciate the role of

an artist operating within a finely-tuned

community, resulting in that beautiful end

goal: harmony.

VISTA Jazz Band

Drawing

Painting

Mixed Media

Printmaking/Computer Graphics

Ceramics: Pottery

Ceramics: Sculpture

“What I really likedwas the focus on the arts! Both designand physical arts...drawing, dance,acting. That issomething Vis hasthat makes it sounique.”

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Young athletes gain first-hand insights into relationships: coach

and player, captain and teammate, offense and defense. They

set goals and rely on teammates to achieve them. Together

they build momentum and overcome hurdles. They pace

themselves, recognizing when to jog and when to sprint.

Young athletes cultivate joyful optimism and quiet confidence.

They understand that every performance requires practice.

And when the game begins, they experience the unity of head

and heart.

Visitation offers a wide array of athletic avenues. In competition and in collaboration,our athletes develop many virtues. They learn grace in defeat and humility in victory.

They witness the magic of teamwork and the power ofpersistence. They take risksand laugh along the way.They feel the limits of the

human body – flexing a muscle, nursing a wound,reaching and rebounding. They stretch, they swing,they sweat, they slide, they score.

Athletics

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LowerK-8 swim/dive

5 co-ed soccer

5 volleyball

5 boys basketball

5 girls basketball

5 boys baseball

5 softball

MiddleK-8 swim/dive

6 co-ed soccer

6 volleyball

6 boys basketball

6 girls basketball

6 boys baseball

6 softball

7/8 soccer

7/8 volleyball

7/8 basketball

7/8 softball

7/8 lacrosse

7-12 cross country running

7-12 swim/dive

7-12 tennis

7-12 alpine skiing

7-12 nordic skiing

7-12 hockey

7-12 track

7-12 golf

Upper7-12 cross country running

7-12 swim/dive

7-12 tennis

7-12 alpine skiing

7-12 nordic skiing

7-12 hockey

7-12 track

7-12 golf

9-12 soccer

9-12 volleyball

9-12 basketball

9-12 lacrosse

9-12 softball

“Visitation’s educational environmenteffectively teaches the Salesian values,which I have seen consistently reflectedin the outstanding behavior of thestudent athletes I have had the privilegeof coaching. The Visitation athletesalways give their best and maintainpositive attitudes in practice and incompetition. Winning or losing, theysupport each other and respect thecompetition.”

Ted, Varsity Hockey coach

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2455 Visitation DriveMendota Heights, MN 55120

www.visitation.net