The OLMA Overview -- December 8, 2017
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Today we celebrated one of OLMA's time-honored traditions: Junior Ring Mass. Before arriving at OLMA last year, I had heard about Ring Mass, but didn't really "get it" until I witnessed it for myself last December. Like so many things at OLMA, it is magical and today's ceremony was no exception.
If you were here, you know that this tradition is about so much more than rings. It's about our Junior Class and the commitment that God has called upon them to fulfill. Today they marked an important milestone in their high school years and will soon begin preparing for their senior year. Congratulations to the members of the Class of 2019. Many thanks to Mr. Coyle, Sr. Margaret, Ms. Hopman, Mrs. Stanzione, and the Parents Society who helped make this important day possible.
Next week is a full one as we prepare for Midterm exams and draw closer to Christmas break. With just one more week to go, it's important that academics come first. We'll end the week with a PJ and Ugly Sweater Day and the big Advent Angel reveal party.
During the week of December 18, students will take exams on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, with a 12:30 PM dismissal time. If necessary, any missed exams may be made up on Thursday morning. I wish you all a wonderful weekend! -- Mrs. Coyle
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Student Spotlight
Nicole Wolkowicz, Class of 2019
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OLMA junior, Nicole Wolkowicz, was all smiles this morning as she and her classmates prepared for Ring Mass. Of course, Nicole is almost always smiling -- or making others smile and laugh -- as she travels from class to class each day. Her friends say that she has a great sense of humor, something that comes in quite handy when juggling her very busy schedule. "I'm always busy, but I wouldn't have it any other way," she said. I like being involved in a lot of different things. You won't find me just sitting around alone."
In addition to her studies, volleyball, swim, crew, chorus, church choir, and volunteer work with Big Brothers Big Sisters keep her on her toes. She likes to spend what little time is left hanging out with her friends and doing things with family. A self-proclaimed social butterfly, Nicole loves being around lots of people. On Sundays that includes dinner with her parents and grandmother.
With swim season now in full swing, Nicole's early mornings and afternoons are dedicated to the OLMA Swim Team. A swimmer since she was a little girl, Nicole's claim to fame is the backstroke. "Our season began this week with a win, which is my favorite way to start," she said. "I am very competitive and love to race."
A little known fact about Nicole is that she works with a voice coach. "I've been taking singing lessons since the 8th grade and really enjoy it," she said. "I don't do a lot of performing, mostly because of time constraints, but I do love to sing whenever I can.
Prior to joining OLMA, Nicole attended Edgarton Christian Academy. It was there that she decided to follow in her mom's footsteps and attend OLMA. "I'm part of a long line of OLMA students," said Nicole. "I didn't have to come to OLMA, but I loved the fact that everyone seemed so close when I shadowed. Now, I can't imagine myself any where else."
When asked if she had any advice to pass along to the many area 8th graders who are considering OLMA for high school, she said, "If you want a place where you can totally be yourself, this is it. The fact there are no boys here is also a plus. High school is stressful enough without being worried about impressing boys during the day. And, if you are worried about making friends, don't. You will make friends, maybe even your best friend, on your very first day."
Well said, Nicole. Thank you.
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It's Our Turn to Change the World
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If you haven't seen this year's annual fund video yet, please take a look -- and be prepared to be impressed. There are no better spokespeople for our school than our students. They do it well and are passionate about keeping OLMA moving forward.
Our goal for this year's Annual Fund, launched earlier this week, is $50,000 in cash donations. With your help, we know we can do it. For all the details and to make your gift, visit the Annual Fund section of our website, or follow the button below.
We thank you in advance for your support and, remember, no gift is too small.
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Let's Luau and Earn a Day Off!
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There are just eight school days left for us to sell out of this year's Annual 50-50 tickets. The reward? A day off -- when we need it most, courtesy of Mrs. Coyle.
If you are looking for a fun Christmas gift for a friend or family member, this could do the trick. Tickets are $100 each and include a chance to win up to $10,000 and dinner for two at our Luau-themed Drawing Party set for Saturday, February 24. Either way, it's a win and a fun night out.
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If ever there was a time of year when we do a lot of shopping and hold onto our receipts just in case, it's Christmas. This year, as you stash your receipts for safe keeping, snap a photo of them first using the Shoparoo App -- and earn points to be redeemed for cash by OLMA.
It's easy and, dare I say, fun! Simply
- Download the free Shoparoo app (already in use by 10,000+ schools)
- Snap pictures of our receipts (every receipt counts)
- Earn cash for OLMA as Shoparoo makes a donation for every receipt you submit
In addition, your receipts will earn OLMA entries into Shoparoo’s $1,000 monthly sweepstakes drawings. That’s all there is to it. Plus, there’s no limit to how much money we can raise. The more people who use the app, the better. Go to
shoparoo.com
to get started!
P.S. -- The junior class is in the lead so far this year with more than 4,500 points. Who can beat them?
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One Order Left Before Christmas
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The final SCRIP order before Christmas will be placed on Friday, December 15! If you want to give gift cards and earn a little money on the side, this is your last chance of the year. Cards will be ready on Wednesday, December 20. Be sure and check out the low denomination cards available for the holiday season.
P.S. -- Just a reminder that if you sign up for Presto Pay you can order electronic cards 24-7 on demand!
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If you live locally, or are home from school for the holidays, we'd like to invite you to join us for a special Alumnae Mass and luncheon on Friday, January 5. Mass begins at 10 AM and lunch at 12 PM. In between, you'll have some time to visit and fill us in on what you've been doing.
Sound like a plan? If so, please let us know you will be attending by filling out and submitting the form linked below. We wish you a blessed holiday season and look forward to seeing you in the New Year!
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Dream Foundation Unwrapped Toys
-- Any donations of unwrapped toys for distribution to sick children are due by Monday, December 11. Toys should be for children ages 3 and under.
Christmas Caroling with PREP and OLMA Interact Clubs at Elwyn Center
-- December 12 @ 7 PM; All are welcome. Permission slips are available in the office.
Advent Penance Service
-- December 13
OLMA Interact Christmas Visit at Maurice House
-- December 14. Permission slips are available in the office.
Ugly Sweater Contest, Sisterhood Day and Advent Angel Reveal --
December 15
Big Brothers Big Sisters Gifts
-- If you selected a "little" to purchase gifts for, please have them in by Friday, December 15.
Last SCRIP Order Before Christmas
-- December 15
Midterm Exams
-- December 18-20; 12:30 PM Dismissal
Exam Makeup/End of Quarter 2
-- December 21
Christmas Break
-- December 22, 2017 -- January 2, 2018
Classes Resume
-- January 3, 2018
Alumnae Mass and Luncheon
-- January 5, 2018 -- MORE DETAILS TO COME!
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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
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