Nat Wilburn, Head of Schools, attended the Fourth Interna-tional Conference for Heads

of Schools of the Society of Sacred Heart, held at Sacred Heart School in Taipei, Taiwan October 20-24, 2011. Gathering there were 55 Heads of Schools from 15 countries, includ-ing 17 from the USA. The theme of this once-every-four-year conference was Justice, Peace, and the Integrity of Creation. “It was an unforgettable experience to hear from my colleagues who work in the Congo, Egypt, all around Europe, and Asia, how the vision of St. Madeleine

Sophie is alive and prospering,” Wil-burn said. The 2,000 students, faculty, parents and alumni of Sacred Heart in Taipei, the hosting school, gave the participants a warm welcome. (page 8) “While there was a very academic portion of the gathering,” Wilburn explained, “I learned most from our dinner conversations, our walks across the campus, and hearing my colleagues talk about the blessings they enjoy and the struggles they are enduring.” The keynote speeches by Sr. Kathleen Hughes, RSCJ, Formation to Mission Advisor within the USA Net-work, and Ji Ping Chang, an alumna and an engineer involved in sustain-able design, provided many insights to the group. They helped the Heads reflect upon the nature of the Sa-

cred Heart education offered to their students in this digitalized, globalized

and divided world. Those attending found great value in con-necting with their coun-terparts in other areas of the globe. In order to sustain this com-munication, several decisions were made. A virtual international community will be estab-lished within the SOFIE website (so-fie.org) to ensure on-going sharing of information and ideas. It will serve to respond to the need to create a forum to exchange ideas about global issues. In addition, a Day of Prayer will

be set for all Sacred Heart institutions during Lent with a focus on compas-sion leading to action. Skype sessions are also being considered. The next conference is tentatively planned for Mexico in 2015, with Europe agreeing to be a second option.(See page 8 for further coverage)

FALL/WINTER ‘11

VOLUME 29 NO 1

ACADEMY OF THE SACRED HEART HARDEY PREPARATORY

6 2 5 0 N . S H E R I D A N R D . C H I C A G O I L 6 0 6 6 0

ISACS team concludes on-site assessment

The third annual L’Esprit du Vin on Nov. 18 served as a lively kickoff

for the Schools’ spring gala, L’Esprit de Sacré Coeur, Feb. 11 at the Fairmont Hotel. More than 300 guests enjoyed bidding on wine and sampling bounti-ful appetizers in the transformed gym. The party also previewed the

new “L’Esprit Boutique,” a collection of Sacred Heart sweatshirts, fleece, tee shirts, caps, duffels, notepads, beach towels and much more which will be available at L’Esprit. There is even a bib sporting - Got Goûter? Many partygoers took the op-portunity to purchase tickets for the Tuition/Cash Raffle, which culmi-

nates at L’Esprit. The Early Bird Raffle winner drawn that night was Brian West. Event Chairs Mary Ann Clem-ent, Kelly Dettmann, Liz Ryan, Jane Goodrich, Nancy Fullerton and Courtney Mentzer sold nearly 400 bottles of wine, helping raise approxi-mately $20,000 for SHS.

Fellowship is the byword for annual party

Gregory Hosbein(l), Brian Dettmann and John Pellouchoud enjoy sampling the vintages at L’Esprit du Vin.

Taiwan – 55 Heads of Schools, 15 countries, all Sacred Heart!

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Dan Engel H8 (from r) escorts Mary Kay Markunas and Dawn Nichols, who pause to speak with Stephen Puricelli.

Mona Kharoofa A8 (from r) escorts Mary Pat Ferraro and Sr. Maureen Glavin RSCJ on a tour of SHS.

After touring the Schools, the ISACS team gathers in the cafeteria for dinner before beginning their evaluation visit.

“Sacred Heart Schools is beautiful both to the eye and the heart.”

With these words, Dr. Dawn Nichols, Chair of the ISACS (Independent

Schools Association of the Central States) began her wrap up meeting for faculty and staff after an intense three-day accreditation visit. During those three days, a dozen educators from around the Midwest delved into every facet of SHS, guided by the Schools’ comprehensive Self-Study. This document, more than a year in the making, encompassed ev-erything from curriculum and staffing

to the lunch program and after school. “Your degree of preparation was so evident, and your hospitality could not have been fuller or warmer,” noted Dr. Nichols. Tasked with evaluating all major aspects and programs of the school, the visiting team prepared a report which cited strengths, chal-lenges and recommendations.Every seven years Independent schools undergo the ISACS self-study and external review process every seven years. Ac-creditation is approved (or not) by the ISACS Board of Trustees based on the visiting team’s and ISACS Review Committee’s findings. These will be

made public in January 2012. The visiting team formed a warm relationship with the SHS communi-ty during their stay. “We experienced wonderful students, hard-working and talented faculty and staff, dedi-cated parents, committed trustees and passionate alumni,” said Dr. Nichols, who is Head of Convent of the Visita-tion School in St. Paul, MN. Another member of the team, after meeting with the alumni, said “What a blessing as an adult to have had this school experience.” At the team’s departure, Dr. Nichols reflected, “There is a quiet confidence and sense of calm at

Sacred Heart Schools that envelopes all who enter.” She, and the evalua-tion team, left the Schools with five commendations and five recommen-dations. These will serve as guidelines for the Board of Trustees and admin-istration while they work to create a new five-year strategic plan. The ISACS results will be presented in official format in January. “We are all delighted with the ISACS process and the outcome,” said Nat Wilburn, Head of Schools. He adds that their report will “help us clarify how we might move ahead on the road to continuous self-improve-ment as an independent school.”

It was an unforgettable experience to hear from my colleagues in

the Congo, Egypt, all

around Europe and

Asia...

Delegates gather at Sacred Heart School in Taipei, Taiwan.

www.shschicago.org

When Sr. Sally Brennan, Principal of the Academy at the time, hit upon the idea to pair a middle school

student with each kindergartner for a shared field trip, little did she dream of how the idea would take hold! That was 20 years ago, and since then, the popular Buddy Program has grown to include 7th grade/kindergarten pairs; 8th grade/1st grade pairs; and 4th/1st grade reading buddies. Buddies go to masses together, includ-ing walking together to Christmas Mass at St. Gertrude’s, have Stone Soup Thanksgiving lunch together, and sit together at the Christ-mas lunch. They also have activities with each

2

Volume 29, No. 1; Fall/Winter 2011

The Heartbeat is published three times a year.

Sacred Heart Schools 6250 N. Sheridan Rd. Chicago, IL 60660-1730 773-262-4446 www. shschicago.org E-mail: sacred.heart@shschicago.org

Head of Schools: Nat WilburnEditor: Diane FallonEditorial Board: Judy Corrin Meghan Donahue Kathy Fivelson Nancy Jones Jamie Powers Kathy Roderer Sally Sharp Sophie Streeter Debbie Wells©2011 SHS

SHS snippets

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Egg-Caterpillar-Chrysalis-Butterfly! Grade 2 learned about metamorphosis first hand through rearing and studying their own insects. After careful observations and much patience, the second graders re-leased their butterflies into the wild at Berger Park.

Class Capers

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9/11 tribute...To commemorate the 10th anniversary of 9/11, the 232 middle schoolers created a 10’ by 6.5’ mixed-media American flag for the library, a collage of images reflecting their feelings and impressions. From l: William Fleming, Caroline O’Grady, Julia Huebner, Michael Shanahan

✒Two Garden Parties in Grade 1! Hana Uddin and Gerard O’Keefe display the welcome signs they created for their par-ents for the 7th annual 1st Grade parties, held Nov. 10 and 17. The girls performed Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs while the boys sang enthusiastically in the Chapel. All then enjoyed breakfast with their parents in the cafeteria.

Misericordia Clean upAfter assisting in cleaning the grounds the day after the Miseri-cordia Family Fest, the 8th grade tours the facility and learns about its programs for special needs children and adults.

Girl Scouts grow at SHSIf s’mores around a campfire, popsicle stick crafts and selling Thin Mints ring a bell, you’ve been in Girl Scouts! This year SHS hosts a 1st grade Daisy troop and two Brownie troops. “Living in an urban area, scouting gives girls the opportunity to go camping, learn about the outdoors and take care of the earth,” notes Marcia Rooney, a parent and one of the pioneering moms who started the first large troop at SHS in 2005. “Girl Scouts reinforces values consistent with those of Sacred Heart, especially helping others and being accepting of others.”

✒Dance Fever...The dance unit in Jamie Power’s Lower School girls gym classes featured a day with Rachel Berube of Giordano Dance, who also teaches an after school class in jazz dance.

Mater Admirabilis!Performing in the annual 2nd Grade tableau about the painting of Mater, are Miles Gust(from l), Margot Bett-man, Mia Coletto, Olivia Cerda, Neve Chilla, Kate Larson and Maeve Daley.

Buddies are the best!

Campus improvements:

Gym facelift heads campus upgrades

From the newly paved parking lot, to the leveled brick pavers and bright green “tennis court” finish

on the Sheridan Road playground, the SHS campus underwent a makeover this summer! Leadingthewaywasthegymrenovation.Thenewexteriordoorsopenedtoasparklingalmost-newgym-nasium.Newlighting,newacousticalceilingtilesandanewpaintjobontheone-year-oldmapleflooringexudethe“wow”factor,alongwiththelargeSHSmedallionpaintedoncentercourt. Retractablebasketballback-boardswithtouchpadcontrolsonthenorthandsouthendsofthegymmakefullcourtplaypossibleforthefirsttime.Thesouthhalfcourtalsohadelectricmotorsinstalledtoraiseandlowerthebackboards.Improvedstagelightingroundsoutthisfacelift. Thegymrenovationwasmadepossible,inpart,bythe$190,000

raisedthrough“Fund-a-Need”atL’Esprit de Sacré Coeur lastFeb.12. LeadinguptotheCamp-bellBuildingglassdoorsfromtheSheridanRoadgateisanewbrickwalkway.Itismadeupof213bricksengravedwithmessagesfromdonors.$18,500wasraisedthroughthisendeavor. Buttheimprovementsdon’tstopthere.Mostevidentwhenenter-ingthebuildingisthenewlymodi-fiedPortry.ThePortressnowsitsintheopenPortryspacebehindadeskenclosurecustom-builtbyFacilitiesEngineerHenryMuhrer.TheSchools’newfull-timesecurityofficerisbasedintheoldPortressroom,withaccesstoallsecuritycamerasandsensors. Furtherdownthehall,HardeymiddleschoolboysnowhavealargerHumanitiesclassroom,astheirroomwasmovedacrossthehalltoanareaformerlyoccupiedbyseveralschool

offices. IntheSouthSheridanwing,runningwaterandsinkswereinstalledinthe6thgradesciencelabwhileintheRosemontBuildingnewlockerswereinstalledandtheRosemontgatewasgivenanewsoundspeakertoimprovecommunicationwiththosewantingtogainaccess. Allofthisisundertheever-watchfuleyeofthe12newexteriorsurveillancecameras.

At the Red and White Induction, 7th graders escorted their Kindergarten buddies to the stage as they received their red or white bandanas. Giorgino Edery H7 is with buddy Niklas Swanson K, and Bobby Solberg H7 buddies Brendan Sullivan K .

Existing bricks are leveled and reinstalled while donor bricks create a new gym entryway.

Buddies have built bonds for 20 years

✒Right answer? Fiona Johnson A4 uses her “clicker” to check her response to a spot quiz on the inter-active whiteboard in her 4th grade classroom.

Gloria Kwakye A7 (top) and her buddy Emerson Good K and Alana Shannon K with her buddy Cameron Herman A7 at mass.

www.shschicago.org

As a student of the Sacred Heart, I have received numerous opportunities for off-campus learning, personal growth and

service. Every year Sacred Heart provides for learn-ing, growth and service experiences off the school backdrop. In 8th grade, the opportunities have been greater. We recently traveled to Camp Rosenthal in Michigan and NASA Space Academy in Alabama. In the spring, we will venture to Washington, D.C. Travelling to Camp Rosenthal was a wonder-ful opportunity to grow closer with my classmates, reflect on my faith and demonstrate Goal 3: a social awareness which compels to action. While there, our class helped repair, close and clean the camp so it would be ready for the inner city campers next summer. This experience helped all of us understand what it means to per-form very involved, arduous, serious and selfless service for others. We appreciate being given such altruistic service opportunities. In addition, we also had the opportunity to travel to Huntsville, Alabama to expand our knowledge at Space Academy. Due to the tragic tornadoes in Alabama last spring, our 7th grade trip there had to be rescheduled. We were very fortunate to eventu-ally go to Space Academy, because it helped us to expand our intellect, learn to work cooperatively, to live with people other than family members, and allowed us interaction with everyone in the grade, even the boys. Space Academy provided us with experiences worth much more than just reading a textbook – like riding the Space Shot 22 times, do-ing a nighttime scavenger hunt for different struc-tures in the rocket park, or doing an EVA space walk during a three-hour mission. Although all these trips are extremely impor-tant, the most influential and eminent one is the week in Washington, D.C. This trip will help us not only learn about our nation’s capitol and the history of the U.S.A., but will develop our independence and maturity, leading to personal growth. These attributes must be attained to be success-ful in high school, in work and in life. Being able to develop these skills with our peers and the guidance of teachers will make the transition much easier. Sadly, as an 8th grader, my Sacred Heart journey is coming to a close. But the experiences through the years at school and discoveries I have made in the service and learning trips we took this year, will make us better equipped for the transition out of SHS and into a seemingly new world.

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by Olivia Reese A8

SHS opportunities prepare us for life

Erin Creed

Elyse Hoffman

Germany home to four Sacred Heart schools

Faculty ProfilesMiddle Schoolers choose either French or Spanish, taught by one of these profiled teachers:

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Germany is home to two Sacred Heart schools in Bonn, one in Berlin and one in Hamburg, which is profiled here.

International Network of Sacred Heart Schools

Space Acad-emy provid-

ed us with experiences worth much

more than just reading a textbook.

Sophie-Barat-Schule named after foundress of the Society of the Sacred Heart, Saint Madeleine

Sophie Barat, is an independent, tuition-free, co-educational high school governed by the Association of Roman Catholic Parishes in the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg. With 1,080 students, 79 faculty and staff, 31 classes, over 220 course combinations, and 40 clubs and work-shops, Sophie Barat Schule is one of the largest grammar schools in Ger-many. Having a long tradition in Hamburg, the Sophie Barat School’s origins began in 1895 as an educa-tional institution for girls. The name later changed to St. Angela School,

produced under the direction of the Ursuline Order, which was recognized in 1912 as a lyceum (high school for girls). In 1919, about 300 students at-tended the school, but by 1940, the St. Angela Catholic School was closed as a school by the National Socialists. In 1952, the RSCJ revived the Sophie Barat School, and in 1982, the SBS began the transition to coeduca-tion. Co-ed classes were established in 1984, and the SBS is currently one of three Catholic high schools in Ham-burg. Under the curriculum of the Hamburg School Authority, SBS is nationally recognized for its qualifica-tions: German equivalents of GCSE and A Level / High School Diploma

are state-approved and accredited. Headmistress Sr. A. Podlesch,RSCJ, acknowledges the challenges of the modern world which their students must meet when they leave their school, and believes their Christian consen-sus among students, parents, and faculty/staff members can help prepare young people for that transition. This includes solid-native and foreign language education and the vision to “see ourselves as a community of learners and educators and endeavor to have an open ear for the troubles and concerns of our students.” In the cultural diversity of their school com-munity, they see enrichment in living

together.Advocating a holistic approach to education, SBS emphasizes excellence through the head, heart, and hands, said Sr. A. Podlesch, RSCJ. “We strive to awaken the intellectual curiosity of our students by offering them the same values that give life its orientation.” Learn more at www.sophie-barat-schule.de.

The Sophie-Barat-Schule school in Hamburg.

Years at Sacred Heart – this is my sixth year. Area of responsibility – Middle School SpanishHow did you originally choose Spanish as the lan-guage you would study? – I discovered I was able to pick up on languages very easily, and Spanish was my favorite. It just seemed to make sense to me.What advantages are there to teaching in the same school as your husband and also attended by your children? – We can carpool! Just five more years until the baby starts Kindergarten – then we’ll all be under one roof every day.I grew up in – Oklahoma and Nebraska.Personal hero or heroine – I’d have to say my great-grandmother. She walked across the state of Texas next to her family’s covered wagon, raised a family, lived through the Depression, broke a hip trying to jump a fence at the age of 86 and lived to 106!Currently I’m – trying to do three things at once – multitasking is the only way to get anything done!If I could do it all over, I’d – slow down and take more time to appreciate the smaller things in life... to sit and read a book with your child rather than have a perfectly spotless house...to spend an afternoon enjoy-ing the beauty of the world around us rather than waiting in line at the bank. Life gets so busy we forget. My family says I – worry too much!Now I’m reading – The Son of Neptune, by Rick Riordan, and The Historian, by Elizabeth KostovaI’d like to have dinner with – Charles Dickens (if he weren’t deceased); nobody ever seems to realize that he was actually super funny. Schooling – M.Ed., DePaul University; double B.A., Valparaiso UniversityIn school I was known as – True confession: I was kind of a know-it-all. On second thought, that may not sound very surprising to those who know me! Favorite “junk” food is – definitely Dr. Pepper, Dori-tos, and peanut butter M&Ms.I spend my “free” time – I have three daughters… I don’t get any free time!Your proudest moment – watching my parents walk across the stage, together, to receive their PhDs. They worked so hard and sacrificed so much for the sake of knowledge – I was very proud to be their daughter on that day. They set an excellent example.Favorite school memory – getting a lead in the school musical and our marching band making it to State were two definite high points!

Years at Sacred Heart – this is my third year.Area of responsibility – Middle School FrenchHow did you originally choose French as the language you would study? Just as here at Sa-cred Heart, in 6th grade I was offered the choice between French and Spanish. I decided on French because I liked the way it sounded and since my older sister was already taking Spanish, I wanted to do something different.How do you build on the French your MS students already know from their earlier classes?They come in to 6th grade French very well pre-pared for the quick pace of my class. They already have a good handle on the sound system and oral language skills. In middle school, we start to include more reading and writing and build more vocabulary. It is important to remember that learn-ing a second language is an ever-evolving process and takes a lot of work!I grew up in – Mt. Prospect, ILPersonal hero or heroine – I have several different “heroes” or “heroines”. For example, my parents inspire me in their own ways. My dad reminds me to be a kind person and to handle adversity with a sense of humor, whereas my mom has shown me how to be a loving mother to my daughter.Currently I’m – enjoying being a new mom and also learning how to balance my role as a mom with continuing to be a teacher. If I could do it all over, I wouldn’t change a thing! I am really happy with where I am in my life now and believe that it is because of everything that I have gone through and decisions that I have made.My family says I – am adventurous and indepen-dent. I have really enjoyed traveling to different countries and experiencing their culture.Now I’m reading – Moonwalking with Einstein: The Art and Science of Remembering Everything by Joshua FoerI’d like to have dinner with – my husband! It’s been hard to find time and a babysitter since having our daughter in April.Schooling – M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning, De-Paul University; B.A. in French, DePaul UniversityIn school I was known as – the girl who was good at gymnastics.Favorite “junk” food is – gummy fruity candyI spend my “free” time – going for walks with my family to the Lincoln Park Zoo, reading and partic-ipating in book club, visiting my parents, my sister and her family and my brother in the suburbs.Your proudest moment – Making the decision to move to France for a year and teach English in a French high school. It was a challenge because I had to give up my job and apartment in Chicago with a certain degree of uncertainty as to what would happen when I arrived in France with my one suitcase. It was worth the risk!Favorite school memory – I have very fond memo-ries of high school gymnastics competitions and participating in student council.

Erin Creed Elyse Hoffman

Goal 2:

4 www.shschicago.org

Each year, the Schools focus on one of the five Goals of Sacred Heart education. This year, the focus is Goal 2, “to educate to a deep respect for intellectual values.” Numerous activities occu r on and off campus to that end. Highlighted here are just a few.

‘Poetry Pals’ fosters inter-faith partnershipTech talk at SHSModel and teach ethical and respectful use of technology..........................Criteria 6 of Goal 2

Josephine Lee, the President and Artistic Director of the Chicago Children’s Choir, has been chosen

the recipient of the 2012 Sacred Heart Schools Goal Award. Each year, the award honors an individual or institution in the Chicago area whose work exempli-fies the Goal central to that year. Ms. Lee’s long-standing commitment to bringing both music and a wider world view to a diverse group of children was chosen as a wonderful example of Goal 2: a deep respect for intellectual values. One of her many letters of recom-mendation for the award stated, “From her intellectual approach to music and arts education, to her cultural and artistic expertise, to the example she sets for the students she teaches, Josephine succeeds in inspiring, encouraging and educating everyone she meets.” The nomination goes on to eloquently state, “Josephine prepares

students to live cooperatively in a global society by using music as a bridge to bring not only their voices but their hearts together.” Nat Wilburn, in announcing the award, said, “We look forward to Ms. Lee’s visits to Sheridan Road in the com-ing school year to add our students to the many thousands of lives she has touched with her vision of music as a catalyst to global awareness.“ Plans are in the works for Josephine Lee to be a formative presence with the students for Justice Day on Jan. 27, 2012. She will bring with her members from the Chicago Children’s Choir, such as alumni chorus members and an accom-panist, as appropriate to the evolving program. “She will make a connection to our community and the music-making will be heart-filling,” said KK Cleland, Fine Arts Council member. The Fine

W here can you find Muslim, Jew-ish and Catholic students laugh-ing, talking and writing poems

together? At Sacred Heart Schools! The fourth grade is participating in Poetry Pals, a year-long interfaith poetry project. The organization brings together children from diverse, interfaith communities for partnership and friendship using poetry, the spoken word, music and art. A stroll through the SHS foyer on Oct. 18 found 4th graders from a Jew-ish school, Solomon Schechter, and two Muslim day schools, ICCI: Islamic Com-munity Center of Illinois Academy and MCCFTS: MCC Fulltime Muslim Day School, in a raucous, lively get-to know-you session. Led by energetic Adam Shames, Program Director, the 110 stu-dents and visiting staff found themselves chanting and moving in unison, with head

Activities planned with Chicago Children’s Choir for Justice Day

Space Academy brings solar exploration to life

Intellectual Values

The timing is different, but the venue the same…. Huntsville, Alabama, where students have gone to Space

Academy for the past 18 years. Due to a barrage of tornadoes in Hunstville last spring resulting in a loss of electricity and clean water, the annual 7th grade spring trip was postponed until this fall. The 74 8th graders and four chaperones spent Oct. 2-7 learning about space through hands-on experiments, museum studies and in-space simulations. “They are kept busy from 7am until almost 10 pm,” noted Lexi Pond, SHS sci-ence teacher, who completed her 14th trip

this year. Activities include toys in space (physics), rocketry, space missions (team-work, general science and simulations), history of flight, astronaut training simula-tions and thermo design, to name a few. “The students also learn about the different engineers and scientists involved in developing space explorations,” added science teacher Maya Lampic, the trip organizer, who completed her 5th Space Academy trip this year. The outing benefits the class both by improving their team-building skills as well as their social awareness. “We are fortu-nate that other schools from all over the

Two carts holding 20 iPads each travel daily to the Primary School classrooms, as part of a

new iPad program for grades K-2. In an effort to put technology into the hands of the students at an early age, the administration chose iPads as a tool that would allow the teachers to easily integrate tech resources with younger children. The cost of the de-vices also made it an attractive option.

“When the boys see the iPad cart roll into the room, their eyes light up!” said Betsy Fallon, H1 teacher. She adds that they love to play Balloon Pop to practice their addition facts and Top It, another math app. The teachers have also evalu-ated and implemented several writing, reading, geography and drawing apps to use in conjunction with the units they cover. The Kindergarten classes have even started to take advantage of the handwriting apps on the devices. “One of the kindergarten teach-ers informed me that using the iPads

has helped to improve the motor skills for two of her students who previ-ously found it a challenging task,” said Ademola Popoola, the Schools’ Technology Integration Specialist. After two months of use, what seems to be the greatest benefit of iPads in Primary School? Popoola cites ease of use. “At this age, it is a lot easier to tap, touch and swipe than it is to learn how to move a mouse and right-click/left-click.” Because many of the students have already been ex-posed to an iPad at home, the teacher spends minimal time showing how to use the device. Meg Steele, Primary School Head, was instrumental in developing the program and is quite pleased with the results. “The kids love the iPads. All are enjoying the adventure. Middle school students have stopped by to ask me why the little ones got them before they did. They are quite indignant!” “The explosion of mobile devices leaves technology as an area that changes with lightning speed,” noted Nat Wilburn, Head of Schools. “It is difficult to keep up with the evolution of technology,” he adds, “but as educators we are committed to con-stantly exploring tools and expanding methods to help our students learn.” To that end, more interactive projectors and document cameras have been added, in addition to Net-books and Flip Cams in the lower school and 95 new computers in the classrooms.

Leading expert in the technology field, Dr. Larry Rosen, examined both the potential pitfalls and potential benefits of technology for the “iGenera-tion.” Rosen’s latest book, “Rewired: The iGeneration and How Kids Learn,”

was the focus of his full day and evening visit at SHS on Oct. 18. Beginning with a presentation to the faculty and staff before school, Rosen spent the day speaking to students in grades 2-8, grouped within divisions, and to smaller groups of teachers and administrators. More that 70 parents attend-ed his evening talk, sprinkled with anecdotes, eye-opening stats, and concrete advice for a mom or dad trying to keep up and cope with their “wired” offspring.

Primary School iPads part school-wide innovative tech integration

Josephine Lee chosen for 9th annual Goal Award

Dr. Rosen shares a light moment with parents as he advises them on dealing with the iGen-eration at his evening talk in the Chapel on Oct. 18.

Expert shares insight on ‘iGeneration’

Stevie Norman (from l), Meg Steele, PS Head, and Emily Owens try out the iPads.

Annika Swanson works with new pals during her trip to the Solomon Schechter Day School.

Students vote “yes” for Poetry Pals at SHS!

5www.shschicago.org

Goal 2 Criteria (From the revised Goals and Criteria, 2005)

1. The school develops and implements a curriculum based on the Goals and Criteria, educational research and ongoing evaluation.

2. The school provides a rigorous education that incorporates all forms of critical thinking and inspires a life-long love of learning.

3. The school program develops aesthetic values and the creative use of the imagination.

4. The faculty utilizes a variety of teaching and learning strategies that recognizes the individual needs of the students.

5. The school provides ongoing professional development for faculty and staff.

6. Members of the school community model and teach ethical and respectful use of technology.

Each year, the Schools focus on one of the five Goals of Sacred Heart education. This year, the focus is Goal 2, “to educate to a deep respect for intellectual values.” Numerous activities occu r on and off campus to that end. Highlighted here are just a few.

‘Poetry Pals’ fosters inter-faith partnership Goal 2 Potpourri

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Under the Pear TreeKathy Fivelson, Parent & Alumni Relations Director, reads Under the Pear Tree to Grade 3. In honor of the feast of St. Philippine Duchesne on Nov. 18, non-teaching staff were invited to read aloud and jumped at the chance. The book, written by Sr. Jan Dunn, RSCJ, was illustrated by 3rd and 4th graders at Duchesne Academy in Houston, TX.

All about health! ✒The new Health Class, taught by Andy

Pronto for Grades 1 & 2, teaches students about their bodies, the effects of physical activity and ways to stay healthy. It also

addresses mental and emotional well-being and has covered such topics as bones, bul-

lying and the brain/nervous system. At right: Maggie Needham A2 makes a match in the Memory Game composed of large cards on the floor. Matches are

eliminated until the whole life-sized game board is cleared.

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Math Night a hit!Luke Penner H4 and his dad joined more than 40 families of grades 1-4 at Math Night on Nov. 3. Students and their parents played games, did problems and interacted with manipu-latives and other resources. Grades 3-4 showed their parents the new pass-word-protected Everyday Math Online which they can also access from home. “It was a wonderful, relaxed evening,” said Julie Taylor, computer instructor.

Arts Council is instrumental in planning Justice Day. Lee is also planning to connect with the Schools’ three music faculty mem-bers. “What an honor it is for Sacred Heart to be able to acknowledge Ms. Lee’s exceptional contributions to the development of Chicago’s young people,” said Wilburn. Born in Chicago, Josephine Lee is a classically trained pianist, conduc-tor, arranger and producer. Appointed President in 2010 and Artistic Director in 1999, Ms. Lee is the youngest Artistic Director in the history of Chicago Chil-dren’s Choir. Under her direction, the Choir has toured nationally and inter-nationally, received a Chicago/Midwest Emmy Award for the 2008 documentary Songs on the Road to Freedom, and has been featured in nationally broadcast television and radio performances.

Ms. Lee has conducted and performed concerts and master classes throughout the United States, Argentina, Austria, Canada, Czech Republic, Ger-many, Japan, South Korea, Thailand and Uruguay. More than a choral conductor, Ms. Lee has also conducted the Chicago Lyric Opera, Grant Park and Oregon sym-phony orchestras.

scarves hijabs and yarmulkes forgotten in the magic of shared excitement. When the children broke into groups during their visit to SHS, they started talking to one another and begin writing ideas that will help them cre-ate their poems. There were smiles and laughter as students realized they had so much in common. “Poetry Pals is thrilled to kick off a groundbreaking school year with new partnerships in Chicago and the nearby northern suburbs,” said Mary Ann Li-gon, Lower School head. The program includes visits to each of the participating schools and a culminating performance for parents on March 21. Later in October, A4b and H4b traveled to Solomon Schechter Day School in Skokie. There they participated in similar team-building activities.

December visits are scheduled for A4a and H4a at Solomon Schechter in Skokie and for A4b and H4b at MC-CFTS: MCC Fulltime Muslim Day School in Morton Grove. In January, trips are planned to ICCI, the Islamic Community Center of Illinois Academy in Chicago. Poetry Pals is a non-profit funded in part by a grant from One Nation One Chicago Fund at the Chicago Commu-nity Trust. It creates an environment for children to come together, share their cultural experiences, and learn to write and perform their own poems. “As the children express themselves and listen with respect to others, they strengthen their own pride and self-esteem, while gaining an appreciation for another’s cul-ture,” said Donna Yates, Chicago Poetry Pals Founder and Poet-educator.

Activities planned with Chicago Children’s Choir for Justice Day

Space Academy brings solar exploration to life

Sasu Tuladhar and Laura Ruperez are celebrating the end of their EVA (extra-vehicular activity) shuttle mission. They used teamwork to problem solve in this simulation of a repair mission and got a sense of how difficult it is to work in microgravity.

Bark rubbing ✒Ruth Derbew finishes her bark rub-bing. The Kindergarten, as part of a science unit on trees, did research at Berger Park. They studied the parts of a tree, the many ways that people and animals use trees and the differ-ences/similarities between conifer and broadleaf trees. They found at least five different tree leaves, did bark rub-bings and collected anything that falls from a tree – twigs, berries, seeds – to use in class “discovery.”

Intellectual Values

world are there as well as rural schools who use their spring break to work,” explains Pond. “I love watching the enthusiasm and growth of our students. They are working with people they seldom talk to or even students from other schools.” What do the kids like best about it? Pond and Lampic report getting a variety of answers to that question: the missions, the simulations, and of course, time with friends. In the end, the real value of the pro-gram is summed up by Pond, “The students work together to solve problems and find solutions.”

Josephine Lee chosen for 9th annual Goal Award

Josephine Lee tours the SHS art room on a recent visit.

Your move...checkmate! ✒Jimmy Goodrich makes a move on Ethan Pinto in After School Chess, Grades 1-8, while prac-ticing for citywide tournaments. Taught by Zack Fishman of Chess Education Partners, it uses stories, puzzles and hands-on learning to enhance analytical thinking. A parent of a 1st grader said, “At the beginning of the year, my son had no grasp of check-mate, castling, etc. But last week we played. What happened floored me. Not only did he play well, he almost beat me. We got a book and went over a famous chess match by Paul Morphy and my son could predict many of his moves!”

6

Alumni News etc...

www.shschicago.org

=Marianne E. Cinat, aunt of Susan Reese A2=Michael Davis, uncle of Maggie Murnane K, brother-in-law of Mollie Murnane, staff=Jane Evans, grandmother of Lisa Evans Scully ASH’83, great-grandmother of Gordon H7 and Alastair Scully H6=Isabel Lyman Gallagher ASH’44=Alexander Jamieson H’37=Edwin Kestler, father of Cath-erine Kestler, faculty=Rex Lewis, father of Jill Renn, faculty =Robert P. Loshbough, grandfather of Mason A’09 and Cameron Speta H8=Sr. Louise Lundergan, RSCJ, former faculty=Marie A. Merlo ASH’62=Loretta Kirby Neilsen, great-grandmother of John

H’11, Michael H7 and Thomas Cleland H3=Magdalena H. Pallasch, mother of Diana Pallasch Miller ASH’56, grandmother of B. Michael H’05 and Mad-eleine Pallasch A’05=William Thomas Pinney, father of Melissa A. Pinney ASH’71 and Mary V. Pinney ASH’72=Nancy Stephenson Plunkett ASH’56=Robert A. Reusché, grand-father of former student, Lily A. Marzahl A’11=Fred Rommel, brother of Susan Schroeder, staff=Thomas Staley, former faculty=Jane Farnsworth Werhane, mother of Jan Farnsworth, staff and grandmother of Kate A’02 and John H’05 Perrine

Father Justin Daffron, SJ, PhD is the Direc-tor of First Year Experience and Interim Director of Academic Advising at Loyola University, where he earned his PhD. A graduate of Centenary College in LA with a BS in Business, he received his MA from St. Louis University, and has taught in Poland. He has celebrated many Masses at SHS the past several years and assists with First Communion preparation for 2nd graders. He will be chairing the Board’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee.

Michael W. Husman H’89 is a managing principal of Equibase Capital Group, LLC, which provides capital and debt equity to the real estate industry. He holds an MBA from University of Chicago and a BSBA from Bos-ton University. As the Schools’ Annual Fund Alumni Representa-

tive the past two years, he assisted greatly in alumni advancement and served last year on the Hardey 75th Anniversary Host Committee.Cynthia Patti is the President of Parents

of the Heart and mother of current students Jane Grace A7, John H5 and Charlotte A2. She is a past Chair of the Schools’ wildly successful dinner dance and auction, L’Esprit de Sacré Coeur. Judy Keller is the retired Director of the Lincoln Park Cooperative Nursery School. As such, she has worked with admissions as an early childhood teacher and director since 1978. She holds an MA from the University of Maryland, a BA from Western Michigan University and has done post-graduate stud-ies at Wheelock College. Her daughter Melanie is a graduate of the

Academy Class of 1989.

New Board ChairThe Board also announces its new Chair for 2011-12 is Liz Connelly, parent ofJackH6,KateA1,PatrickH’10,andMag-gieA’08.ConnellyservedontheBoardforsixyearsfrom2003-2009andrejoinedit

lastyearasViceChair.AgraduateofKelloggSchoolofManage-mentMMandGeorgetown’sSchoolofForeignServiceBSFS,shepresentlyworksatJPMorganasaManagingDirector.

Welcome, new Board Of Trustee members!New SHS Board of Trustee members for 2011-12 are:

Remembrance Mass draws alums, parents

Save the Date!Alumni Reunion Weekend 2012

April 20 – 22

Friday, April 20, 2012Rooms reserved at Hilton Garden Inn Chicago North Shore/EvanstonMeet & greet - Hilton - evening

Saturday, April 21, 201211am – Mass in SHS Chapel Sr. Catherine Seiker, RSCJ Award presented Noon – Luncheon (6250 N Sheridan Rd.) Tour - school & Driehaus Center 7-9 pm –Alumni Reunion Cocktail Party at Driehaus Center (6200 N Sheridan Rd.)

Sunday, April 22, 2012The Hardey Breakfast, Mass & Mater Tea (For all 8th grade students, their parents & alumni)

10:00 am – Hardey Breakfast 11:00 am – Mass ~ SHS Chapel Noon – Mater Tea

Visit www.shschicago.org for updatesTo obtain a class list,

contact the Alumni Office: 773.681.8480 or

alumni@shschicago.org

From Mary McCauley Clark A’84, Alumnae Annual Fund Rep (shown left with her mother, Mary McCauley and sister, Kathleen McCauley A’82, at the Lead-ership reception in the Driehaus Center on Sept. 14.

Summer Congéa hit with alums

Alum and SHS parent writes open letter to Sacred Heart community

As the school year began, we cele-brated one my favorite events, International Night. It is also my 2nd grader Ryan’s favorite event, next to Conge of course! International Night is a new tradition for me, as it did not exist when I was a student at Sacred Heart. It is an evening when the entire gym is transformed into a colorful global village. Beautiful Moroccan style tents adorn the corners of the gymnasium, children proudly wear clothing represent-ing their heritage, and the foods of many countries is enjoyed and shared by all. This evening is a true celebration of the diversity of our student body. It is a night when I am filled with pride for my alma mater and reminded of the gift that I am giving my son by choosing to educate him at Sacred Heart. (see pg. 8) The internationality of the Society of the Sacred Heart fosters a respect for all cultures. In an era plagued by intoler-ance and misunderstanding among various cultures and religions, the ability to educate our children – tomorrow’s leaders – in a manner which promotes understand-ing and respect for people across cultural divides is invaluable. However, the appeal of International

Night is only one facet of diversity important to our children’s educa-tion. Another integral to the Sacred Heart tradition is an appreciation of socio-economic diversity. Yet the reality is that a Sacred Heart education is not financially feasible for all children who aspire to join our wonderful student body. Significant to Sacred Heart’s mis-sion, the Annual Fund enables the school to open its doors to those who would

otherwise not be able to attend, and thus allows our children to be educated in a truly diverse community. The schol-

arship program is funded significantly through the Annual Fund, and comprises 13% of the school’s annual budget. Though the value of the scholarship program is tremendous, the Annual Fund is the foun-dation for much more that directly impacts the education of each child at Sheridan Road. The Fund also bridges the $3,000 tuition shortfall for each student, and helps the school to provide competitive salaries to our exceptional faculty. As a significant part of the operating budget, Sacred Heart counts on the Annual Fund, and has been fortunate to be able to rely on the generos-

ity of people like you. Last year, an amaz-ing 99% of the faculty and staff and 82% of current families contributed to the Fund. Additionally, 10% of parents of alumni and 7% of alumni also gave, but we would cer-tainly like to see greater participation from our graduates. Annual giving exemplifies how invested we are in the future of our school, and our commitment to the vision of St. Madeleine Sophie Barat. When I was asked to work on the Annual Fund on behalf of the alums, I was honored because I know that it is the cornerstone of the school’s fundraising, and vital to the school’s growth. Please join me in an effort to preserve and enhance the Sacred Heart legacy. Take a moment to consider what you can contribute. A gift of any size has an impact, and ensures that the vision of International Night can become a reality for all families who wish to join the Sacred Heart community.

Scan & click QR code to donate

online or contact Lindsey Lopez

lindsey.lopez@shschicago.org

773-681-8410

Erie Café in River North, owned by Ron Lenzi H’79, was the site

of the Summer Congé. Not only Sheridan Road alums attended, but also those from other Network Sacred Heart schools. “We had good conversations about upcoming reunions,” noted Kathy Fivelson, Par-ent and Alumni Relations Director. 

A special mass was held in the SHS Chapel on Nov. 2. The Mass of Remembrance is offered each year on the Feast of All Souls

Day to remember those in our community who have died in the preceding year. The 8th grade class and many of their par-ents joined with alumni and RSCJ to pray for and remember those who have gone before us. Each year, the SHS community is asked to submit the names of loved ones who are then entered by hand into the Book of Remembrance which is kept in the Chapel. At every Mass cel-ebrated on campus, the souls of the deceased who have been remembered in Memorials are prayed for aloud.

Top: Joanne Steenveld ASH’56, carried the Book of Remembrance in the entrance procession.

Bottom: Michael Shanahan H8 and his dad Joe present the gifts at the Remembrance Mass.

Jennifer Wesley (c) current SHS parent and alum of Sacred Heart in Bloomfield Hills, MI, speaks to fellow alum Ann Grant (l) and her daughter Heather Grant.

www.shschicago.org

Yvonne Godoy-Ramos ASH’63 is currently living in Kansas and while retired, works as a freelance translator for a Spanish tech company.

Beatriz Olivera ASH’73 is an Assistant General Counsel for Huron Consulting Group.Jean Luby Navarro ASH’79 toured Sacred Heart over the summer with her two children. She spoke fondly of her time (grade 8-12) at Sheridan Rd. She remembers Sr. Campbell and Mickey Smith, among others. Jean has lived in Florida for 24 years.

Marilyn Bardie-Kapaun A’80 is a professor at Georgia State University, teaching criminal law, and works as an attorney for Bovis, Kyle, and Burch, LLC in Atlanta prac-ticing family law.While visiting Chicago, Valerie Talangbayan-Gardner ASH’84 and Maria Gutierrez ASH’84 enjoyed Summer Dance with friends Christina Hoffmann ASH’84, Susan O’Malley A’80 and Michelle Buck A’80. Valerie is a RN at Columbia University’s Children’s Hospital of New York, Maria is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Columbia, MO, and Christina is the Content Manager at HouseLogic.com. Susan is a RN at Chicago Children’s Memorial Medical Center, and Michelle is a Professor and the Director of Leadership Initiatives at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Current SHS parent Brad Thor’s H’83 11th novel, Full Black, opened this summer at #3 on the NY Times best-seller list, and was called “gripping” by People Magazine.

Alexi Giannoulias H’90 was named chairman of the Il-linois Community College Board, where he is incredibly excited to help reform community colleges in Illinois. He is a graduate of Boston University and Tulane University’s School of Law.Tiffany Villa-Ignacio ASH ‘93, earned her PhD in Com-parative Literature from Brown University in 2010, and is now teaching in the History and Literature Program at Harvard University.Congratulations to Michael Salva-tore H’95 and his wife Melissa on the birth of their son Bennett (at right) Salvatore, born May 5, 2011. Congratulations to Zachary Muhrer H’97 on the birth of his son Orson Rainn Muhrer on July 10, 2011.

2000'SAnn Corrin A’04 will graduate from Dartmouth Col-lege in June 2012 with a BA in Geography modified with Economics and a minor in Public Policy. After graduation, Ann will return to Chicago to work for Mercer as a Hu-man Capital Analyst.Lin Bo H’05 is currently attending Dartmouth, majoring in Geography modified with Environmental Studies.Melissa Jordan A’05 is a junior at the University of Notre Dame, double majoring in Chinese Language and Anthro-pology with a minor in Irish Language. Over the summer she was a publicity intern at Corby Publishing. Melissa is currently excavating on the Aran Islands and Dingle Pen-insula’s conversion-era gravesite and pilgrimage locations in Ireland. Stephanie Mora A’05 is studying in Cordoba, Spain.

Christina Verdirame A’05 is studying abroad this semes-ter in Geneva, Switzerland at the University of Geneva and interning at a children’s rights advocacy NGO.Elizabeth Yates A’05 is a junior at the University of Day-ton majoring in Electronic Communications. She loves every minute of her time at UD. Elizabeth is a member of Chi Omega sorority and also plays on the Lacrosse Team. This past year Elizabeth spent time in the Social Justice Program committing time to various service projects. Maria Zdunek A’05 is currently in Sevilla Spain. She up-dates her blog about her experiences at http://holamazzy.tumblr.com.Alexis Hamburg A’06 is double majoring in Theatre Arts and Corporate Communications. She was awarded the Vocal Award from Saint Ignatius College Prep. Alexis was also cast in The Laramie Project last spring at Marquette University and in Little Shop Of Horrors, Marquette’s Fall Musical. She participated in Relay For Life at Marquette last spring and was the second highest fundraiser with $1,570. Katie Angulo A’07 was awarded All-State honors by the IHSWLA. Katie finished the championship game with a season-high eight goals, including the gamewinner, five draw controls, and five defensive takeaways to carry the Wolfpack to their 3rd place finish. Gabrielle Dawson A’07 attends Kansas State University, majoring in Interior Design. Grant DePalma H’07 is playing D3 Football for Rose-Hulman (Fighting Engineers) Position: Line Backer and Special Teams.Sidney Finan A’07 is attending Roger Williams in Bristol, RI on a four-year scholarship. She is a biology major and a Spanish minor.Patrick Flynn H’07, a 2011 Saint Ignatius College Prep graduate and middie on their 2011 Varsity lacrosse team, was named Academic All-American by US Lacrosse, the national governing body for 21 state lacrosse organiza-tions. Patrick was one of only four Academic All-Ameri-can selections chosen from 1600 male lacrosse athletes in Illinois. Patrick was selected based upon his grade point average, college entrance test scores and academic achieve-ments. He attends Northwestern University. Colleen McNulty A’07 is a freshman at the University of Wisconsin. The Wisconsin women’s cross country team was victorious at the Badger Opener at the Zimmer Championship Course. Colleen finished 13th overall in her first race with a time of 18:38.6 for a 5k. She was 9th for her team as a freshman. Jennifer O’Neil A’07 is attending The University of Michigan.Luke Vogelzang H’07 attends Northwestern University in the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences. Montana Birringer A’08 was recognized as a semi-finalist in this year’s National Merit Scholarship Program, scoring in the top one-half of one percent on last year’s PSAT examination. She attends Fenwick High School.Breanna Kendall A’08 of Evanston received the Wood-lands Academy of the Sacred Heart (Lake Forest,IL) Dartmouth Book Award. This award, sponsored by the Dartmouth Club of Chicago, is awarded to a junior who is in the top 10% of her class, and who demonstrates intel-lectual leadership while making a positive contribution to the extracurriculars at Woodlands Academy.John Finan H’10, a sophomore at Walter Payton College

Prep, made straight A’s each quarter, and will start AP classes next year. Ryan Shaaban H’11 (left) attends Culver Military Academy, in Culver, IN, where he is on the JV soccer and freshman basketball teams.

7

Alumni News

Kwaben Komai A’83

From the Alumni Board

President

Coming home…Academy of the Sacred provided a home, love, values, time, faith and understanding, and I could go on and on! I feel that Sacred Heart Schools serves their students so they are encouraged to serve others and impact the world. The Alumni Board is here to serve the school as well as fellow alumni. We are busy working to implement such activities as: reaching out to alums via Summertime Congé, which was well attended last August by Sheridan Road as well as alums of other Network Sacred Heart schools; Alumni Reunion Weekend, which also includes Mater Tea and Hardey Breakfast (see opposite page), group volunteer services with the school, and expanding the Board beyond the walls of Sheridan Road by inviting other Sacred Heart alumni in the Chicago area and Sheridan Road alumni in other cities to join – whether in person or “virtually.” As the school and the Alumni Board gear up for another academic year, it is a great pleasure to be on the campus again. Please mark your calendars for the Alumni Weekend, April 20-22, 2012, and join us for a memorable time of reconnecting with your class-mates. We hope to see everyone at the activities! It is with great pride that I lead the Alum Board, and I hope you continue to remain connect-ed with the Academy and Hardey Prep. Come back home to your roots on Sheridan Road!

Local Alumna Elected President of AASHMaureen Elizabeth Ryan, a Chicago native and Barat College alumna, was elected as President of the Associated Alumnae and

Alumni of the Sacred Heart. When Maureen and the newly elected 2011-2013 board met this past June in St. Charles, MO they established their action plans for this bienni-um. One of their goals is to advance and improve communications of AASH. Maureen is pleased to announce there are now three new ways to stay connected to AASH.

Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/AASHsacredheartTwitter at: http://www.twitter.com/AASHsacredheartRyan’s Blog at: http://aashpresidentmer.blogspot.com/

Maureen looks forward to hearing from you and says for those that follow her blog you will certainly recognize many photos from her travels to Sacred Heart schools around the country!

Sr. Donna Collins, RSCJ, for-mer Secretary General of the Society of the Sacred Heart

and for seven years the Principal at Josephinum Academy, is serving the Schools in many capacities this year. She is the fea-tured speaker on the evening of Dec. 5 for “A Parent Education Conversation - The International Sacred Heart Family: A Community Embracing Diversity Through Dialogue.” In addition, she gave the homily for the school Masses on St. Philippine’s Feast. At the begin-ning of the school year, she shared a multimedia history of the Society of the Sacred Heart with faculty/staff. She brought the visionary St. Madeleine Sophie and the courageous St. Philippine to life with humor, pathos and an eye to the signs of the times.

Sr. Martha Curry, RSCJ, former principal on Sheri-dan Road, has completed her book about the history

of Barat College, Lake Forest, IL. Barat College: a Legacy, a Spirit, and a Name is published by Loyola Press. Sr. Curry is planning a book signing at Sheri-dan Road in the near future. With the imminent merging of the Barat property with Woodlands due to a generous anonymous donation, Sister Curry’s history of Barat College is more timely than ever. While doing research on the history of Barat College, Sister Curry had access to previously unpublished primary material in Barat’s archives and the archives of the Society of the Sacred Heart in Rome and in St. Louis. She also had access to a trove of photographs, historical and contemporary interviews.

Sr. Mary Pat White, RSCJ and Sr. Mary Lyman, RSCJ (right) directed the Busy Person’s Retreat for faculty and staff from Nov. 14-18 at SHS. This retreat provides an opportunity to reflect on the

challenge educators have to cultivate transformation in the lives of their students and at the same time foster in themselves an attentiveness to the presence of God. The retreat is made during the school week and scheduled around free periods, providing an opportunity for prayer and reflection in the midst of busy school activities.

Sr. Pam Hickey, RSCJ, former Principal of Hardey, left Chicago in November to join the RSCJ in Redwood City, CA. She will continue working with adults who desire to learn English in a literacy pro-gram there. She can be contacted at: 1624 Union Ave., Redwood City, CA 94061-2718, 650-208-4335, phickey@rscj.org.

RSCJ ConnectionsThe SocietyPage

This year from October 20-24, the Fourth International Conference for Sacred Heart Heads of School took place in Taipei, Taiwan.

I was one of 55 delegates gathered from 15 countries to discuss the mission of Sacred Heart education around the globe. I traveled there along with 16 other Heads from the United States. Every four years the Religious of the Sacred Heart ask that Heads of School come together to further St. Madeleine Sophie’s vision of a truly in-ternational mission to make the love of God known.

This conference entitled, “Justice, Peace and the Integ-rity of Creation” seemed especially fitting given world events since the last gathering in 2007. During the conference, held at Sacred Heart Schools Taipei, the delegates celebrated the feast of Mater Admirabilis. While there are fewer than five percent Catho-lics among the 2000 students of Sacred Heart in Taipei, it was one of the most moving

celebrations honoring the Blessed Mother that I have ever experienced. We walked in silent prayer across campus with the senior class stu-dents. Then each student presented Mater with a handmade paper lily on which her prayers were writ-ten. It was evident that the point of the conference was not only to learn about the international Sacred

Heart community, but to form it. As the conference con-cluded, delegates drafted two formal letters, one to Sr. Kathleen Conan, the Superior General of the Religious of the Sacred Heart, and the oth-er to Heads of Schools across the world who were unable to attend. Delegates reflected on their experience during the conference and called for continued and enriched collaboration:

Our theme, Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation, has served to call us forward together. We have exchanged ideas about programs and projects. We have begun to identify those competencies essential to develop in all members of our communities so that all may be critical thinkers and compassionate actors. Throughout our dialogue the common theme has been to continue to manifest God’s love. Sophie’s vision informs our actions. Inspired by the depth of commitment each one brings to the work of Sacred Heart education, we are filled with hope and gratitude.

‘

Why are you special? The Kindergarten was asked that question at the beginning of the year, as part of a unit focusing on the individual child and his/her family. They read a book entitled I Like Me and made self portraits on paper plates with a chosen face color and yarn hair. Each of the five Kindergarten classrooms kept a chart with a line for every child: I am special because…..

I am special because I am a very good artist and a good friend. …Luke SteiglederI am special because I look like my dad. …Declan Dorrian

The students then create family trees, which have named apples for each fam-ily member in the child’s home. They actually draw the family members on the other side of the project. “I am special because I’m a good sleeper.”…Brendan Haviland“I am special because I’m very good at jumping.”…Zoe Sirota

“The kids absolutely love this project,” said Kindergar-ten teacher Lynn Feeley.

The 6th annual International Night was a kalidescope of sights and sounds, as the gym

was transformed into a global village on the night of Sept. 16. Nearly 600 guests reveled in a “taste of Sacred Heart.” Food from 40 countries was served in separate tented areas, draped with gossimer fabrics repre-senting water, sky, earth and fire. Celebrating the diversity of the cultural backgrounds of the student body, International Night featured ethnic cuisines, traditional costumes and a spectacular “Parade of Nations” showcasing the native attire of the participants. “The Schools celebrate and value the wonderful diversity of our multicultural community,” said Nat Wilburn, Head of Schools. Tables were arranged in a meld-ing of one nation next to another, cel-ebrating side by side in unity. Fami-

lies, faculty and staff hosted tables replete with artifacts of their heritage. Displays included maps, pictures, household items and souvenirs.

‘

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTEDNon-Profit

OrganizationU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPermit No. 9498Chicago, Illinois

6250 N. Sheridan Rd

Chicago, IL 60660-1730

773-262-4446

Taiwan experience enhances international Sacred Heart community

International Night a melding of diverse tastes, sights and sounds!

From the Head of Schools

INSIDE:ISACS team visits SHS..........................pg.1

Buddy program turns 20.........................pg. 2

Goal Award recipient announced.....pg. 4-5

Nat Wilburn attends Heads meeting in Taiwan..............................................pg. 1 & 8

Zzaje Jean K (l), a guest and Sophia Wagner A1 sport native dress while perusing the ethnic offerings in the International Night food court.

It was one of the most

moving celebrations

honoring Mater that I have ever

experienced.

Nat Wilburn with Sr. Rose Sun, foundress

of SHS Taipei

I am special! “I am special because no one looks like me.” Jack Grisko

“I am special because I am easy to cuddle with.” Grace Mansell

Wilburn shares a photo with Catherine Karrels Head of Stone Ridge in Maryland.

Students of SHS Taipei present flowers to Mary on Mater’s feast.