The OLMA Overview -- February 2, 2018
What a great week it was! We opened Catholic Schools Week with a beautiful prayer service on Monday morning, followed by our GREEN OUT later that night in support of OLMA Basketball. It did the trick as our team continued its amazing season with a victory over St. Joe's!

On Tuesday, we recognized our student scholars, leaders and athletes during a special assembly. We are so proud of our students and know you are too. It was awesome seeing the girls cheer for each other as names were called. An example of sisterhood at it's best. On Tuesday, we also launched a school-wide service project in support of our fellow Americans in Puerto Rico who are working hard to rebuild their homes and lives. Over the next few weeks, we will be collecting any and all building tools and materials, as well as personal hygiene products for delivery directly to the people who need them.

On Wednesday at 9 AM the Day of Giving Challenge came to an end. I want to offer my heartfelt thanks for your support. We had 31 donations totaling $2,235 toward our Annual Fund. That included nearly 100 percent participation from OLMA faculty and staff. Annual Fund continues until June 30, 2018, so if you missed the Day of Giving and would like to donate, there's still time. Visit the "Support OLMA" section of our website for all the details.

Also on Wednesday, the Parents Society treated faculty and staff to an amazing lunch complete with great OLMA travel mugs! We loved it and thank you so much for all you do to support our school each day.

Yesterday was Student Appreciation and International Food Day. During an extended lunch, students were able to "walk around the world" and sample foods from six different countries.

Finally, our week came to a close this afternoon with a Dodge Ball tournament in the gym. The winning team played the faculty, gulp! Thanks, Coach Leng! Have a great weekend and GO BIRDS! -- Mrs. Coyle

Student Spotlight
Caroline Bernhardt, Class of 2021
OLMA freshman, Caroline Bernhardt, has a beautiful smile and is as sweet as they come. She found her way to OLMA through her grandparents who have a long history with the school and encouraged her to check it out. "From when I was very little, I remember them talking about OLMA and what a great school it was," said Caroline. "I think I knew then that it's where I wanted to be. Once I shadowed, I knew it for sure."

Caroline is a member of the OLMA Junior Varsity Basketball Team and received a special shout out this week as one of the Cape Atlantic League's top blockers. Caroline said that everyone in her family plays basketball so it made sense for her to play too. She got her start in the 6th grade and loves being part of the OLMA team.

When it comes to her studies, Caroline's performance is equally impressive as she earned a spot on the Principal's List last quarter. She says that she especially enjoys Geography class. "I'm learning about places that I didn't even know existed," said Caroline. "It's exciting to discover the world and all the opportunities it holds."

Caroline is also discovering the joy of service as a new member of the OLMA Interact Club. Members perform in-class service activities weekly, as well as go out into the community to lend a hand. She's also enjoying the Green Girls Club.

Looking ahead, Caroline is excited about traveling to Canada for her Mini-Mester. "I've never been out of the country before, so I can't wait," she said. She's also looking forward to spending time in Ocean City with her family this summer. While she has plenty of time to decide on a career, Caroline is interested in exploring the field of Orthodontics. "Braces can dramatically change a person's smile, as well as the way they feel about themselves," said Caroline. "I want to be part of making that happen."

Way to go, Caroline. We're so glad you're here.
3 Weeks to Go and Only 40 Tickets Left!
If you didn't get your ticket yet, time is of the essence! We have only a few more available -- and one of them could be the big winner. At a cost of $100, each ticket includes dinner for two at the Luau-themed (Drawing Party) set for February 24, beginning at 6 PM, in Carew Hall. The event is a blast and there are so many ways to win.

The evening features special high-value raffles, tons of Chinese auction style baskets and cold hard cash prizes as the 50-50 numbers dwindle down to the last few.

Please show your support and join us! Can't make it? No worries. You do not need to be present to WIN! Call today, or send in your check for $100 made out to OLMA, and we'll reserve your ticket number.

P.S. -- If you have already reserved your ticket, but haven't yet made payment, please do so ASAP to avoid losing your number(s). Thank you.
Last Call for Auction Baskets!
The basket making has begun, so your homeroom items are needed ASAP. They are due in NO LATER THAN FEBRUARY 9, but the sooner, the better. As a reminder, gift cards are available for order via the SCRIP Program. You can support the 50-50 event and help earn your daughter a dress down day! To order, go to: https://www.shopwithscrip.com/.


Here are this year's homeroom themes:

Let's Bake A Cake -- Mrs. DeValerio
It's Dad's Turn -- Mrs. Fortis
Coffee Cafe -- Mrs. Cavagnaro
Family Fun Night -- Mr. Jarrell
What's For Dinner -- Ms. Coppinger
The Artist In You -- Ms. Blough
Good Sports -- Mr. Coyle
Beach Bum/Vacation -- Ms. Hopman
Morgan Hagerty to be Honored at Seton Hall
OLMA senior, Morgan Hagerty, continues to make us proud. On Sunday, February 4, Morgan will be honored by the National Association of Girls and Women in Sport. The ceremony takes place at Seton Hall University. Keep it up, Morgan!
OLMA Art Auction -- April 19
You will see these again at the OLMA Spring Art Auction, so SAVE THE DATE!
Win a Dress Down Day
Still need an item to donate to a homeroom basket. If so, order up some SCRIP. I ordered mine! You'll be supporting the Super 50-50, making some free money AND earning a Dress Down Day! As a reminder, all SCRIP rebates (ranging from 1.5% to more than 17%) are split between your daughter's account and OLMA.

During the month of February, every family that orders at least one gift card each week will earn a Dress Down Day for your daughter to use on March 5.

Remember, every dollar you spend is returned to you in the form of your favorite gift cards. You can order online and pay by check or via Presto Pay. It's free and easy -- and makes some extra cash for all involved. Click here to download an order form, or visit ShopWithSCRIP.com.
It was an International Feast
When OLMA students set their minds on doing something, they go all out. That's exactly what happened yesterday with the International Lunch they planned as part of Catholic Schools Week. Six different countries -- USA, France, Italy, Japan, China and Mexico -- were represented in the form of appetizers, entrees and desserts! It was a blast and enjoyed by all!
OLMA Students Launch Service Project to Help Puerto Rico Rebuild
Hammers, nails, caulk guns, electrical tape, screw drivers, wrenches, duct tape, shampoo, mouthwash, and soap are some of the many items being collected for delivery directly to individual families in the hardest hit areas of Puerto Rico. Bins are being set up in the cafeteria. Gently used tools are welcome, so take a trip to your basement and garage and gather up what you don't need.

This service project, launched by Student Council, is school wide and began as part of this year's Catholic Schools Week activities.
Upcoming Events

OLMA Basketball Senior Day -- Saturday, February 3; JV - 1 PM and Varsity at 2:30 PM; Football Pool Numbers Selected at Half Time!

OLMA Chorus Performs at Diocese of Camden Jubiliee -- Saturday, February 3

Progress Reports -- February 5

OLMA Softball Parent Meeting -- February 5; 6 PM

Career Day -- February 7

Iyanla Kollock Competes in New Balance Grand Prix -- February 10 (watch live on NBC)

Ash Wednesday Mass at St. Augustine Prep -- February 14

Happy Valentine's Day -- February 14

Super 50-50 Drawing Party -- February 24

Senior Depart for Florida -- February 26

OLMA Art Auction -- April 19
We hope you enjoy the OLMA Overview. If you have questions or suggestions, please contact Mrs. Kinkade at 856.697.2008, ext. 140, or email her at: mrs.kinkade@olmanj.org