St. Joan Antida

Dear Friends and Families,

We ended the 2009 – 2010 school year with a beautiful graduation celebration on May 27th at The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist. What a glorious event! If you have never participated in the SJA graduation you have missed one of the most beautiful, dignified ceremonies ever. As we bid farewell to our graduates, we wish them the best in their exciting futures.

Saying goodbye is always difficult but we have so many exciting things to look forward to next school year. Many changes are in place. Some of you may know about these changes but others may not. Based on two reports completed in January, 2010, the SJA Board of Directors decided to take a bold step in restructuring the school. First, I was named Head of School in February, 2010. Although I have always been very involved in the day to day operations of the school, under the new model I will become more involved. This will result in one voice supporting the mission and vision. An Academic Dean, directly responsible for curriculum and instruction, will work closely with me. A dean of students will also be part of the administrative team with a focus on addressing discipline, attendance, and positive school culture. New faculty will join several returning faculty in creating “A New Day at SJA”.

Many changes will be incorporated including but not limited to:

• increased focus on 21st century academics

• research based best practice

• improved student achievement

• data driven decision making

• focus on core academics

• increased accountability for students, staff, and administration

• implementation of restorative justice

• improved use of advisory

• a new schedule promoting increased time for academics

• technology integrated in all studies

• increased exposure to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)

• greater attention to celebrations of various diverse cultures

• project based learning

The Board of Directors will also be changing. Jerry Vite will be ending his tenure as Chair. Father Doug Leonhardt, former President of Marquette University High School, will be the new Chair of the Board. We are thankful to Jerry for his guidance and leadership. We welcome Fr. Leonhardt as well as several new Board Members who will be introduced in our fall newsletter. The school’s Leadership Team will be: Cynthia Marino, Head of School; Sr. Elizabeth Weber, Provincial Team, Sisters of Charity; Maria Schram, Academic Dean; Jamilah Underwood, Dean of Students; Elizabeth Lingen, Director of Admissions; and Nandini Sinha, Chief Development Officer.

These are but a few of the changes you will see when you walk through our doors. There are, however some things that will NOT change, We remain steadfast in our commitment to our mission vision as stated below:

Our Mission: In the spirit of St. Joan Antida Thouret, we prepare young women to lead and serve in a global society through a values based Catholic education. Our Vision: St. Joan Antida High School is the gateway to educational excellence and service for young women who will live and lead in a multicultural world.

We also remain committed to our Catholic values and traditions started more than 55 years ago by our Sisters of Charity. The provincial team, Sr. Anne Marie Baemmert, Sr. Theresa Rozga, and Sr. Elizabeth Weber have been actively involved in all the activities and decisions during this period of transition.

Change is always difficult. We ask for your prayers and support. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me or come in for a visit. We will be working throughout the summer as we prepare for “A New Day at SJA” when school reopens in August. I wish you peace, joy, and beautiful weather during these summer days.

Sincerely,

Cynthia A. Marino
Head of School