annual report to the community 2007-2008
TRANSCRIPT
Our PhilosophyAs builders of the faith community of Saint Mary’s School, we believe
learning is the process of acquiring and applying knowledge, thinking
critically to solve problems, and stimulating curiosity through inquiry
and discovery. We encourage learning through a multi-sensory approach
that encompasses basic skills acquisition, higher level thinking, and
collaboration within an integrated curriculum.
We recognize diverse learning styles among our students and strive to
differentiate instruction so that creativity is fostered and individual needs
are addressed.
Our Christ-centered approach to learning encourages responsibility,
accountability, respect, and above all, compassion for one another. We
endeavor to instill within the child and the community a life-long love of
learning rooted in Catholic values and the conviction to follow them.
P H I L O S O P H Y & M I S S I O N
School MissionSaint Mary’s School is a community founded in Catholic tradition and
committed to creating a Christ-centered learning environment in which we
share in the Eucharist, proclaim the Word of God, and model the gospel values
through our actions, service and the way we live our lives.
Finally, all of you, be
of one mind, sympathetic,
loving toward one another,
compassionate, humble.
1 Peter 3:8
Saint Mary’s was authorized in
July 2008 as an International
Baccalaureate (IB) World School
offering the Middle Years Programme
(MYP), and was the first Catholic school in the nation
to offer this program.
Awarded by the U.S. Department
of Education, Saint Mary’s
received the prestigious Blue
Ribbon School award for scoring in
the top 10 percent of private schools in the nation
based on its standardized test scores.
International Baccalaureate World School
Zach Anliker Benedictine High School
Meredith Berry St. Gertrude High School
Austin Bosher Blue Ridge Governor’s School Goochland
Rachel Cisek Trinity High School
Khanh Dao St. Gertrude High School
Davis Durrett Godwin High School
Nikolaus Grimsley Benedictine High School
Jordan Hodges Goochland High School
Christina Howard Tucker High School
Connor Lewis Benedictine High School
Mookie Loomis Godwin High School
Caleb Marchetti Benedictine High School
Ramzi Mograbi Freeman High School
Devin Plaskett Godwin High School
Nick Wright Deep Run High School
Danielle Zuccaro St. Gertrude High School
Graduating Students
O U R A C H I E V E M E N T S
Awards and RecognitionU.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon School
Dear Saint Mary’s families,
You may have heard me define education as “How we pass
on our culture.” I’d like to thank you and your children
for giving Saint Mary’s, our teachers, our staff, and me
the opportunity to participate in helping you pass on our
Catholic culture.
The 2007-2008 school year culminated when we received
our authorization letter from the International Baccalau-
reate Organization in Geneva Switzer-
land. Saint Mary’s is the first Catholic
school in the United States to offer
the IB Middle Years Programme. Our
quest for authorization began in 2004-
2005 when a small group of committed parents and fac-
ulty met with the goal of strengthening the experience
for students in the middle school. Today, all middle school
students at Saint Mary’s benefit from the enhancements
the IB programme brings to Saint Mary’s School.
2008 was an Olympic year and Saint Mary’s marked the
celebration of the 2008 Olympic games with a “faster,
stronger, higher” field day at the University of Richmond.
Our community once again showed what happens when
someone with a good idea joins forces with our amazing
A Letter from the Principal
O U R L E A D E R S
parents. Countless hours by volunteers created what many
thought was our best field day ever. Congratulations to
England (Mrs. Harris’ 1st grade class) for taking the gold,
and to all our athletes for making the day a success and
demonstrating genuine Olympic spirit.
As proud as we are of the successes of Saint Mary’s
children, we also know their first educators are parents
and we are thankful, as always, that you’ve entrusted
your children to us. Our gratitude extends not only to
our parents, but also to our teachers who are committed
to excellence in academics as well as Christian values.
Finally, to our volunteers and supporters who generously
share their time, talent and treasure, we take seriously
our responsibility to be good stewards of your gifts and
thank you for your continued prayers and support.
Thank you for a wonderful year.
Sincerely,
Thomas D. Dertinger, Ed.D.
Principal
our community so our students can serve more fully
as adults.
St. Mary’s parents know their children are involved
in a community where they can learn and live Chris-
tian values, actively participate in liturgy, prayer and
service. I witness this firsthand when I walk the halls
and visit classrooms; faith and a commitment to the
message of Christ is seen daily.
The students of Saint Mary’s are truly blessed! Blessed
by the energy and commitment of our parishioners,
our parents, our teachers and staff. Without this sup-
port, our education ministry would not produce such
amazing students who succeed in high school and be-
yond.
May God continue to bless you for your decision to
both choose and support Catholic education.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Rev. Walter G. Lewis
A Letter from the PastorDear Saint Mary’s Community,
Education has been a cornerstone since this commu-
nity’s first gathering in 1962. Each year I see Christ
working in our students, teachers, and parents. It is an
inspiration to all members of our parish and a minis-
try we are blessed to embrace.
During the 2007-2008 school year we opened new
doors for our children, quite literally, with the new
Early Childhood Development Cen-
ter. We are grateful to all who have
supported St. Mary’s building cam-
paign which made both the worship
space and 5 new classrooms in the
lower level of the new church available. Every day
the parish staff and I are reminded how important
our service to Christ is when we see the future of our
country and Church in these classrooms.
At our summer meeting, the school board debates a
school theme for the upcoming year. I’m continually
impressed by their selections and encouraged when
we as a community seek models of behavior and
character from the Scripture. This is just one small
example of our efforts to model Christian values in
The values inherent in a Catholic education are
experienced daily - in the classrooms, hallways, lunchroom,
and playground, and monthly at Mass. And these values
are activated through living the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Schooldays and meals begin with prayers; the crucifix
is reverently displayed throughout the school. Religion
classes teach the New Testament, the Sacraments, Bible
and church history, and respect for one another. Service
projects strengthen and personalize these lessons as the
children hold bake sale fundraisers for the Little Sisters
of the Poor, schools in Haiti, and Richmond children.
The classical curriculum (used throughout the Catholic
Diocese of Richmond) has been approved by the Southern
Association of Colleges and
Schools and augmented by the
Saint Mary’s teaching staff
to best serve our children.
Art, music, field trips, and
technology enhance learning
with meaningful, hands-
on experiences for the students. Foreign language is
introduced in kindergarten.
Today’s Catholic schools may look different and no longer
invoke memories of favorite nuns and the Baltimore
Catechism, but the tradition continues through families
and educators who value the Catholic difference.
Please call us at
(804) 740-1048 to
discuss enrollment
opportunities for
your children or visit
saintmary.org
A C A D E M I C S
Catholic education is thriving at Saint Mary’s School in Richmond’s West End. We
have much to celebrate as a community: a parish that cares about its children, teachers
committed to their vocations, and parents dedicated to their children’s academic, spiritual,
and personal development coalesced to enjoy another year of accomplishment.
The Catholic Difference
Saint Mary’s was authorized in July 2008 as an Inter-
national Baccalaureate (IB) World School offering the
Middle Years Programme (MYP). At the time of
certification, St. Mary’s was the only Catholic school in
Virginia to offer an IB program and the first Catholic school in the Unit-
ed States to offer the Middle Years Programme.
Our school offers Diocesan-based instruction that incorporates the phi-
losophy, curriculum guides and instructional materials of the MYP.
Three fundamental concepts guide the MYP: holistic learning, intercul-
tural awareness, and communication. Saint Mary’s is excited to have this
new certification to strengthen an already excellent middle school expe-
rience which prepares our students for their future academic success.
As an IB World School Saint Mary’s not only preserves but strengthens
its Catholic identity. Our goal is to be a Catholic school of excellence of-
fering the best possible opportunities for all students to grow spiritually,
academically, and personally. For more information on the IB MYP please
see: www.ibo.org/myp.
THE FIVE AREAS OF INTERACTION OF THE IB PROGRAMME
Approaches to Learning (ATL)
Students are enabled to take respon-
sibility for their own learning.
Community & Service
Students take an active part in the
communities in which they live,
thereby encouraging responsible
citizenship.
Homo faber
Students learn to appreciate and
develop in themselves the human
capacity to influence, transform, en-
joy and improve the quality of life.
Environment
Students become aware of their
interdependence with the environ-
ment so that they understand and
accept their responsibilities.
Health & Social Education
This area deals with physical,
social and emotional health and
intelligence—key aspects of
development leading to complete
and healthy lives.
“We love International Baccalaureate
students! The IB program fully prepares
students for college. Some of our most
curious learners and most engaged leaders
come to us from IB programs.”
Kristen Binette MarshallAssistant Director of Admission, University of Richmond
An International Baccalaureate World School
Blue Ribbon Society(Gifts of $2000 and above)
Mr. Doug Dabson & Dr. Diane BiskobingMr. & Mrs. Robert & Michele BuschMr. & Mrs. William & Joanne DieterMr. & Mrs. James & Lindsay GouldMr. & Mrs. James & Mary Lynn GrampMr. & Mrs. John & Lisa HerrmannMr. & Mrs. Donald & Murside JeanMr. & Mrs. John & Mary Ann KeoghDr. & Mrs. Edward & Shelley LargoMrs. Sarah A. McMahonMr. & Mrs. Samuel & Jennifer ParkerMrs. Andrea NashMr. & Mrs. Michael & Charlene RichesonMr. & Mrs. James & Hilary Riedy
St. Mary’s Society(Gifts of $1000-1999)
Mr. & Mrs. Dan & Sherry DoodyMr. & Mrs. Marshall & Angie JettMr. & Mrs. Charles & Kathryn JohnstonMr. & Mrs. Paul McFaddenMr. & Mrs. Theodore & Caroline PuchalskiMr. & Mrs. William & Annetta RileyMr. & Mrs. Robert & Lori SchattnerMr. & Mrs. Frank WallmeyerMr. & Mrs. Art & Sondra Washburn
The Principal’s Society(Gifts of $500-999)
Mr. & Mrs. Matthew & Alyson BanksDr. Jeffrey Tessier & Dr. Therese DuaneMs. Mary GillDr. & Mrs. Kyle & Meghan Gunnerson
Ms. Ann KhanMr. & Mrs. Timothy & Suly LaytonMr. Abraham Opstelten & Mrs. Dana LascuMrs. Cecelia McEnteeMr. & Mrs. Paul & Kim McNamaraMr. & Mrs. Drew & Sharon MugfordMr. & Mrs. Kevin & Ellen O’LearyMr. & Mrs. Edmund PolonitzaMr. & Mrs. Michael & Karen SpineMr. Sridhar Mahadevan & Mrs. Gayathri SridharMs. Shannon Hennesey & Kirk SteppMr. & Mrs. Pablo & Eileen TalamanteMr. Jerome Maddock & Dr. Elizabeth WaterhouseMr. & Mrs. Eddie & Mary-Alice Whitlock
The Scholar’s Club(Gifts of $225-499)
Mr. & Mrs. John & Lisa AndersonMr. & Mrs. Erol & Nina AydarMr. & Mrs. Farhad & Esmat AzariMr. & Mrs. Douglas & Jennifer BenduraDr. & Mrs. Stephen & AnneLeigh BiseseMr. & Mrs. Ed & Angela BlumbergDr. & Dr. Robert Castellucci & Judy BrannenMs. Jeanne CathellMr. & Mrs. Thomas & Denise ClarkMr. & Mrs. Robert & Melissa CurleyMr. & Mrs. Dave & Penny DurrettMr. & Mrs. Phillip & Mary GibrallDr. & Dr. Mark & KellyJo GottschalkMr. & Mrs. Jeffrey & Christa HudallaMr. & Mrs. Robert & Elizabeth JonesMr. & Mrs. August & Amanda Keller, IIIMr. Donatas Kraskauskas & Mrs. Vita KraskauskieneMr. & Mrs. David & Paula KupstasMr. & Mrs. John & Stephanie MaurerMr. & Mrs. Michael & Michele McGarryMr. & Mrs. Scott & MaryVirginia Merithew
A N N U A L G I V I N G
Why an Annual School Fund?Tuition covers only 85% of the cost of sending your child to Saint Mary’s. This gap equates to $700 per child.
Annual Giving funds help provide furnishings, library books, textbooks, AR tests, instructional materials,
and cover operating costs. With your Annual Giving gift, you may wish to specify an area of interest for your
contribution or make an unrestricted gift to the school. Please contact Dr. Dertinger at 740-1048 to learn more.
Mr. & Mrs. Michael & Sharon MulvihillMr. & Mrs. Jeffrey & Susan NicholsMr. & Mrs. Sam RichesonMr. & Mrs. Richard & Amy RobertsonMr. Robert N. RosbaughMr. & Mrs. Wayne & Nicole SawyerMr. & Mrs. Timo & Christina SelvarajMr. & Mrs. Keith & DiAnne SloaneDr. & Mrs. Gary & Danielle TyeMr. & Mrs. Mark & TerryAnne VitaMr. & Mrs. Jeffrey & Lisa WalkoMr. Hao Tran & Mrs. Wan IongMr. & Mrs. John & Rose WoodburnMr. & Mrs. Paul & Susan Zamecnik
The Honors Club(Gifts of $100-224)
Mr. & Mrs. Ramon & Josephine AbalosMr. Matthew Arnone & Mrs. Ushan Govender-ArnoneMr. & Mrs. Michael & Dianne BarrMr. & Mrs. Richard & Victoria Beach, Sr.Mr. & Mrs. John & Patricia BentonMr. & Mrs. Cliff & Maria BerryLara S. BoggsMr. Minho Kang & Mrs. Yeanjin ChoMr. & Mrs. John & Maryanne CollinsonMr. & Mrs. Christopher & Pamela CoplanMr. Leonel Del Rio Cobos & Mrs. Maria Gutierrez De Del RioBrigette DieterMr. & Mrs. Thomas & Suzanne DrummMr. & Mrs. Scott & Jody FloegelMr. Andrei Rodin & Mrs. Stacy FreemanMr. John Hanky, Jr.Mr. & Mrs. Charles HaugMr. & Mrs. John & Greta IppolitoMrs. Ann LairdMs. M. C. LaymanMr. & Mrs. Thomas & Delilah O’LearyMr. Thomas Antal & Ms. Mary-Ann ParmentierMr. & Mrs. Ty & Brenda PeppersMr. & Mrs. David & Cyndi PowersMr. & Mrs. Kevin & Nancy PriceSister Pat McCarthyMr. & Mrs. Roger McDonaldMr. & Mrs. Jeff & Beverly McInnisMr. & Mrs. Michael & Krystina McDonoughMr. & Mrs. Paul & Cheryl MunroMr. & Mrs. Michael & Laura MullinsDr. & Mrs. Roger & Catherine Rathbone
Ms. Jocelyn RossDr. & Mrs. Vipal & Jeanette SabharwalMrs. Joseph StautnerMr. & Mrs. Carl & Agata SchoenbornMr. & Mrs. Michael & Elizabeth SkrovanekMr. & Mrs. Duane & Melissa SmithMrs. Kathleen SteegerMr. & Mrs. Charles & Patricia Thompson, Jr.Mr. & Mrs. Gregory & Kimberly TuckerMr. & Mrs. Peter & Meredith WallsMr. & Mrs. Rodney & Kathryn WrightMr. Mark Yeager
Contributors(Gifts of $99 or less)
Ms. Frances ChanceyMr. & Mrs. David & Janis GriffithMr. & Mrs. Ken & Jackie HarveyVirginia LewisMr. & Mrs. Bryan & Robin MorrisonMr. Christopher Williams & Ms. Mary NovakMr. & Mrs. David & Martha NovakMr. & Mrs. Ian & Maria ParongMr. & Mrs. Stuart & Vicki PeytonMr. & Mrs. Michael & Doreen PlaskettMr. & Mrs. Michael & Helen PooleMr. & Mrs. Wayne & Kathleen SanchezMr. & Mrs. Charles & Merle SneadMr. Charles ThompsonMr. & Mrs. Eric & Susan TroutMr. & Mrs. Henry & Jonelle WallmeyerDr. & Mrs. Mike & Siobhan Zuccaro
Corporate Gifts
Dominion FoundationExxonMobil FoundationGeneral Mills CorporationGenworth FoundationMarkel CorporationMary Morton Parsons FoundationPfizer FoundationPhillipMorrisUSARegions Morgan Keegan TrustReidy FoundationSuntrust Mid-Atlantic FoundationTarget CorporationVerizon FoundationWachovia FoundationWellpoint Foundation
The Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is comprised of
parent volunteers and teacher representatives who strive
to create a warm and Christian faith environment for our
children and their families through fellowship, stewardship
and fund-raising. Saint Mary’s School is very fortunate to
have such a committed volunteer base that is so vital to the
support of its PTO events. We encourage events that will
build a strong sense of community. When a family attends
Saint Mary’s School, it is also part of a Christian Community
which makes all the difference in the world.
F O R P A R E N T S
WHAT WE DO
Family• Welcome dinner
• Ice cream socials
• Kickoff Cookout
Fun• Hoe Down
• Basketball pep rally
• Basketball Sports Banquet
• Musical Revue
Fundraising• Annual Gala 2008, “An
Evening Aboard the Ori-
ent Express” raised over
$45,000 through live &
silent auctions – dinner
and dance
• St. Mary’s Marketplace
Parent Teacher Organization
Recent GraduateSuccessesCameron Brammer
Salutatorian, Benedictine (2006)
Michael Praught
Valedictorian, Deep Run (2006)
Kate Rhyner
Valedictorian, Goochland (2006)
Rebecca Sopher
Salutatorian, Goochland (2006)
Enrollment 436 students
Staff• 27 faculty• 9 administration and
support• 1 full time chef• 4 after school care
specialists Class sizesKindergarten: 20:1 plus teacher aidePrimary (grades 1 – 5): 21:1Middle School (grades 6-8): 19:1 Accreditations• Southern Area Colleges
and School (SACS)• Virginia Catholic Educa-
tion Association (VCEA)• International Bacca-
laureate Organization’s authorization to offer the Middle Year’s Programme
• U.S. Dept. of Educa-tion’s Blue Ribbon School Award for 2004
Extracurricular activities• After School Care
Program• Student Government
Association• Safety Patrol• Yearbook• Craft Club• Band / Piano Lessons• Scouting• Basketball• Ad Hoc Sports (Soccer,
Volleyball, etc.)• Science Fair Student awards• Scholarship for Middle
School• Citizenship Awards• Honor Rolls• National French Awards
(Middle School)• Local Spelling Bee
O U R S T U D E N T S
Fast Facts
Please call us at
(804) 740-1048 to
discuss enrollment
opportunities for
your children or visit
saintmary.org
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