MONSIGNOR SLADE CATHOLIC SCHOOL
THE
ROADRUNNER ISSUE 1
A MESSAGE FROM Principal
Alexa Cox
wonderful school year, I am proud to share
JUNE 2019
School Board and our Home and
volunteering in the community, participating in
School Association, Slade was also able
a writing contest, or taking part in a national
to create a state-of-the-art STEM lab
bee, our students rise above!
including a Makerspace, which is used As we anticipate the end of another
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We encourage you to connect with us,
by all grade levels.
whether you are current or former parents,
Additionally, we developed a
alumni, grandparents, volunteers, or friends
with you the accomplishments of our
Discovery Zone, an exploratory learning
of Monsignor Slade. We always enjoy
students, teachers, and school. We have
space for students in grades Pre-K4-1st.
hearing from you!
so much to celebrate that we cannot wait
As 21st-century educators, we know
any longer to deliver the good news of
that the methods through which we
Slade with our community via the newly
educate our students must be forward-
updated Roadrunner newsletter!
thinking, hands-on, and creative so that
Beginning several years ago, after adopting the Google Education platform to enhance instruction, and with the help of
we can adequately prepare them to be successful in high school and beyond. In addition to the many enhancements in
the Knott Foundation, we were able to intro-
our building, we are also extremely proud of
duce Chromebooks into our 4th-8th grade
the many accomplishments of our wonderful
classrooms. With additional funding from our
students. Whether it is in the classroom,
“Slade was also able to create a state-of-the-art STEM lab including a Makerspace, which is used by all grade levels.”
F A I T H
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K N O W L E D G E
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S E R V I C E
Kathleen Oleszczuk named 2018–2019 Teacher of the Year As part of Catholic Schools Week, Monsignor Slade Catholic School announced the 2018–2019 Teacher of the Year: Mrs. Kathleen Oleszczuk. Mrs. Oleszczuk joined Monsignor Slade in 2017 as a STEM Specialist and technology instructor. In her position, she teaches students in grades K–8 weekly, helping to increase their technical skills in a variety of ways. Mrs. Oleszczuk came aboard at an opportune time as a cuttingedge STEM lab was under construction. “The role of STEM specialist is a perfect fit for me,” she said. “I taught math and science for most of my career as a middle school teacher and recently earned my Master’s degree in STEM education; I’m even STEM certified. I love introducing students to new and fun activities such as programming, 3-D design and robotics.” It was fitting to honor Mrs. Oleszczuk during Catholic Schools Week; she has spent her entire career teaching in Catholic schools. Her vision, enthusiasm, and dedication are developing the Monsignor Slade technology classes and STEM program into an exemplary model for other schools within the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Alexa Cox, principal at Monsignor Slade, knew choosing a Teacher of the Year from a notable pool of candidates would be a daunting task. She said, “With input from her peers, I was able to honor Mrs. Oleszczuk, who is most
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deserving, as Monsignor Slade’s Teacher of the Year. She is able to work with all levels of students in different capacities, and she has been instrumental in many recent curricular improvements.” Her colleagues also nominated her. A fourth grade teacher said, “Not only is she very flexible and easy to work with as a colleague, the children learn so much and are excited to attend her class!” Another colleague stated, “Mrs. Oleszczuk has developed our technology track into a top-notch program since her arrival. Her ability to work with so many different ages and abilities is remarkable; she is an asset to our school.” Through her positive nature and can-do attitude, Mrs.Oleszczuk inspires our students and helps them to develop a keen interest in technology. She started and moderates two First Lego League Robotics teams, teaches an eighth grade math class, and is instrumental in working with colleagues to incorporate STEM activities into their lessons. Mrs. Oleszczuk has inspired a shift in culture at Monsignor Slade and is driving the technology program to new heights. With more than 23 years of experience teaching in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, Mrs. Oleszczuk’s commitment to Catholic education is inspiring. Her success in and dedication to her vocation is apparent: she served on the
Archdiocesan Science Curriculum writing team; she is a STEM Curriculum team leader; and has served schools in many other capacities. “I love that in all of the Catholic schools in which I have taught, I have met and come to know many generations of families. The Catholic School provides a unique teaching environment where you can be creative in your teaching and collaborate with a team of educators that want to make a difference in the lives of the young people they teach.” Mrs. Oleszczuk sums up the reason she received Monsignor Slade’s 2019 Teacher of the Year Award perfectly: “I love teaching in Catholic schools and do so because I believe I am part of team whose mission is to improve the lives of those they teach. I hope that I have made a difference in the many lives that I have touched and will touch as I continue my career as a teacher.”
“I love introducing students to new and fun activities such as programming, 3-D design, and robotics.” –Kathleen Oleszczuk
Discovery Zone offers exploratory learning for youngest students Msgr. Slade recently dedicated the Discovery Zone, an interactive and exploratory classroom where younger students can nurture their inquisitiveness. In the Discovery Zone, Pre-K4 – 1st grade students can explore, wonder, imagine, and create, using their senses.
This unique space encourages students to uncover fascinating and fun science, math, music, and art information. Technological enrichment is achieved through coding and constructing simple machines. There is no limit to where their curiosity will lead them. Principal Alexa Cox noted the team effort by saying, “We are so thankful to those who were integral to the creative process and planning which made this interactive learning space possible; we look forward to celebrating all the potential discoveries our students will make within these four walls.”
Delegate Mark Chang and Chancellor of Education Mr. James Sellinger attended our ribbon-cutting ceremony. After Delegate Chang and Mrs. Cox cut the ribbon, Fr. Brian Rafferty blessed the room and all those who will use it. Delegate Chang recognized Slade as a leader in private education in northern Anne Arundel County and an asset to the area’s educational community. He presented Mrs. Cox with an official citation from the Maryland General Assembly recognizing the grand opening and dedication of The Discovery Zone.
Student-led show, Seussical, Jr., sells out Monsignor Slade middle school students’ hardwork garners acclaim for 2018–2019 musical. Seussical Jr., Slade’s spring musical production, sold out performances over March 15–16, 2019. Cast members and technical crew, ranging from grades 6–8, delivered ovation-worthy performances of Seussical Jr., in which they were responsible for acting, stage management, lighting, set design, sound and backstage production. The students’ creativity, showmanship, and stage presence shone under the direction of
Mrs. Karin Abbott, who has returned to Slade as music teacher and Arts Integration Specialist. This year’s production also showcased the talents of alumni, parent volunteers, and other members of faculty and staff who worked tirelessly to make the show a success.
In the spirit of true collaboration, alumna Michelle Datz (’93), art teacher at Immaculate Heart of Mary (Towson), shared several scenery pieces including Horton’s nest and tree, while alumna Bonnie Klemm (’91) lent her expertise in sound design.
“I expected a school play; Seussical was a delightful musical production!” − Dr. Denise Hargens, Superintendent of Schools, Archdiocese of Baltimore THE ROADRUNNER
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672 POUNDS OF FOOD
500
LUNCHES TO DATE
HARVEST FOR THE HUNGRY This food drive benefits veterans, their families, survivors and survivor families affected by the tragedy of 9/11. In September of 2018, donations totaled: 672 pounds of food.
HAPPY HELPERS For the past 25 years, students at Monsginor Slade have been making and supplying brown bag lunches to Happy Helpers for the Homeless. This year the students contributed more than 500 lunches to date.
Tradition: a community MONSIGNOR SLADE STUDENTS DEMONSTRATE THEIR HEART-FILLED PASSION FOR SERVICE DURING THE ARCHDIOCESE YEAR OF SERVICE In the span of one school year, the Monsignor Slade school community will support more than 10 charities. Our students participate in various service projects which benefit non-profit organizations in our local community, our nation, and the world.
APOPKA TOY DRIVE Apopka, FL For more than 35 years, students have donated new, unwrapped toys so that children in the migrant farm-working town will have surprises on Christmas morning. HOPE Community creates a Christmas shop where families can come to purchase gifts for their children at more affordable prices than what can be found in stores.
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PENNIES FOR PATIENTS Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Slade participated in a Pennies for Patients drive. Families donated more than $3000 to this worthy cause.
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STOCKINGS FOR OUR MILITARY
3,000
$
TO A WORTHY CAUSE
that serves
STOCKINGS FOR SOLDIERS This year, our students contributed enough toiletries, snacks, and small items for amusement to fill more than 275 stockings for our military serving overseas and away from home during the holiday season.
OPERATION MATO GROSSO Peru Since 2016, Monsignor Slade has been supporting a Catholic school and mission in one of the poorest and remote areas of Peru by providing basic staples like pasta, rice, beans, flower, sugar, and cooking oil. Last year, Slade students were instrumental in filling a shipping container of food, school supplies, and clothing to be sent to the mission.
Celebrating Slade Spirit Day 2019 THE ROADRUNNER
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Class Notes Class of 1996
Angela Pohlen is working as an Academic Advisor at Ivy Tech in Bloomington, IN while working toward her Ph.D.
Class of 2003
Caitlyn Howard Baker, a doctoral candidate in the acute care nurse practicioner program at the University of South Carolina, credits Mrs. Ann Truffer with her love of science.
Class of 2008
Jamie Rombach earned her Doctor of Pharmacy Degree (PharmD) from Thomas Jefferson University’s School of Pharmacy in April after graduating from Immaculata University with Honors in 2016. Jamie earned practical experience working at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Shriner’s Hospital in Philadelphia, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and Methodist Hospital (Philadelphia). Jamie will join CVS Pharmacy in the Philadelphia area.
Class of 2010
Christopher Boia graduated from UMBC with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, summa cum laude, and was elected to these honor societies: Phi Beta Kappa, Tau Beta Pi, Pi Mu Epsilon, and Phi Kappa Phi. He accepted a position with General Dynamics in Seattle, WA. Charlie Roberts is pursuing a Masters of Science in Education at Johns Hopkins University School of Education. After graduating from York College, he joined Urban Teachers to work in high need areas of Baltimore City.
Class of 2011
Faith Reusing graduated Summa Cum Laude from Jefferson University (Phila.), earned the Dean’s list every semester, and many other honors.
Class of 2015
Kaitlyn Bush won a scholarship to play D1 lacrosse at Jacksonville University. Emma Nieves received an academic scholarship from Florida Southern College to study Exercise Science.
Class of 2017
Mia Sokol was named 2018 Queen of the Chesapeake & Miss Congeniality. William Brooks, a Kelly Scholar sophomore at MSJ, was inducted to the National Honor Society, the National Foreign Language Honor Society, and Distinctive Scholars.
Class of 2015
Share your alumni update with us! Visit msladeschool.com/alumni. 6
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The Slade Class of 2015 returned in April for a reunion before all going their separate ways in their college years.
MONSIGNOR SLADE
2018 Annual Fund Donors Monsignor Slade Catholic School extends its sincere gratitude to the following individuals, businesses, and parishes who contributed to our 2019 Annual Fund between July 1, 2017–June 30, 2018. Every effort has been made to insure the accuracy of this list. If, however, a name has been misspelled or omitted, please accept our apology and notify the Advancement Office at (410-766-7130) of the error. Note: Some donors have chosen to remain anonymous and are not included below.
Msgr. Slade Circle ($1,000 - $1,999) - Joseph Dyer - Stephen and Jean Rogers
Green & White Circle ($500 - $999) - Michael and Patricia Brett1 - Hugh and Helen Faucette2 (Herdeman) - Gregory and Tu Garner* - Sarah (Sally) Outten2 - Drs. Jay and Elise Penafiel* - Thomas and Julie Ruf1 - James and Francine Sellinger - Edward and Helen Wyrwas1
Principal’s Circle ($300 - $499) - Alexa Cox1 - Michael and Stephanie Ecker* - Maria Nabor - Diane Proctor2 (Garner) - Tim & Lisa Slaton1 - James Vucich2(Crill, Randell) - Timothy J. Young - Jill Zazarino2(Perkins)
Trinity Circle ($100 - $299) - Jerome Acks2 (Acks) - Diane E. Alexander2 (Day) - Monique Amelung2 (Zerhusen) - Vincente and Helen Andal* - Ernesto and M Balassa2 (Balassa) - Mary Frances Best - Damian Birchess,1964 - Constance Claffy2 (Paone) - Frances C. Cicero2 (Hilmer) - Craig Cook - Tim & Darlene Coughlin1 - Maria D’Ambrosio1 - Robin Datz1 - Kathleen Deppe,1978 - Dan & Teresa Deters2 (Hilmer) - Lorraine R. Donadoni2 - Larry & Regina Donato2 (Herbert) - Iona Dougherty - Loretta Federline1 - Richard & Katherine Fleck2 (Vess) - Gregory & Tu Garner* - Sivaraj Halan* - George Hartig Alumni names are denoted in green.
- Jeff & Lorna Hawkins* - Jenny Igoe - Thomas Jones,1979 - Mark & Jennifer Jordan* - John & Eileen Keagy - Robert & Mary Keller2(Keller) - Darrel & Laura King2(King & Padencov) - Laura Lang - Dan McCarrier,1989 - Robert McGraw - Erik Olsen* - Jack & Rosa Penafiel* - Nick & Amy Rinius* - Max G. Scott - James & Ruth Seerey2 - J. Joseph Shepherd*1 - Martha Sidlowski* - Richard and Susan Smith - Stacey Lynn Stephen* - Russell & Linda Swenson - Charles Toth2 (Toth) - Robert & Julie Trimble* - Steven R. Vaughan, 1968 - David & Melissa Vess* - Kenneth Villar* - Gary & Mary Ward1 - Cindymarie Williams - John & Diane Williams - Richard & Patricia Wozar2(Coale)
Roadrunner Circle ($1- $99) - Charles & Nancy Becker - James Bertocchio - Regan Blades* - Jennifer Briemann* - Laura Briggs1 - Jana Brooks1 - John Clabby2 (Clabby & Greene) - Brian & Michelle Coale* - Joan Czarnecki - Dorothy D’Anna1 - Robin Datz1 - James & Catherine Demski - Jonathan & Jackie Dunbar2 - Matt & Tammy Dzambo* - Stacy Eberling* - Jennifer Ewing1 - Annmarie Fuerst* - James & Mary Gielner - Lisa Gottschalk* - Regina Herbert*1 *Denotes current family donors
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- Richard & Carrie Hilmer*1 - Terry & Virginia Hilmer2 (Hilmer) - Matthew & Cydny Holt - Heide Hostelley - Elizabeth Hrybyk1 - Anthony & Michele Hudson* - Bianca Gentile Huminski, 2000 - Sr. Jean Keesey, SND - Donna Keller* - Janine Ladzinski - Michael Lato - Richard & Andree Lewis2 (Zerhusen) - Laura Lodowski - Joseph & Barbara Lokaitis2 (Lokaitis) - Gloria Mehiel - Nishant & Catherine Mehta* - John & Mary Lou McKenna - Patrick & Dory Mondor1 - Theresa Moon2(Pfeiffenberger) - Michael Mooney - Sr. Mary Murphy, SND - Mark & Denise Noteware1 - Mary Needham - Regina O’Hara*1 - Brian & Patricia Olsen2 (Olsen) - Damian Peterson* - Cynthia Raymond - Marie Scannello - Daniel & Patricia Seitz - Sandra Sidlowski2 - Courtney Kubat Somerville - Brooke Stoop - Kathleen Sutton - Jean Taylor - Tihamer & Teresa Toth-Fejel* - William & Donna Thompson - Ann Truffer1 - Phillip & Laura Waltz - Thomas & Mary Welsh2 - Steven & Carline Williams2 (Williams) - Beverly Winter1 - Timothy Young, 1963
Denotes faculty, staff or board
2
Denotes grandparent donor
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12 0 D OR SE Y ROA D GL E N BU R N I E , M D 210 61
N O N P RO FI T O RG . U. S . P O STAG E PA I D P E R M I T # 12 0 GLEN BURNIE , MD
Monsignor Slade unveils new playground! Share in the joy!
You can make a difference for today’s Slade students.
DONATE TODAY Contact the Advancement Office at Monsignor Slade Catholic School to discuss your participation options. 410-766-7130 c.hilmer@msladeschool.com
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