The OLMA Overview -- November 16, 2018
The last two weeks have been fantastic! Early last week, we held our annual Instant Decision Day. We had 10 schools on campus. Thirty-two seniors interviewed and secured a total of 60 acceptances. Instant Decision Day is one of the many ways that we prepare our students to succeed as they continue submitting applications and meeting with college admissions professionals.

The next evening, we held our first-ever Powder Puff Football competition. If ever there was evidence of the fearlessness and self confidence that our students possess, it was on that football field. The girls, with almost no practice, worked like fine-tuned machines. We had over 90 players and, win or lose, everyone had a blast. We were especially fortunate to have a squad of cheerleaders from St. Augustine Prep. Again, there was no shortage of self confidence on that team either. The boys did a wonderful job and definitely added to evening's entertainment.

The next day, we opened our house to nearly 200 prospective students and families. Open House featured presentations by teachers and students, panels with parents and students, introductions to Mini-Mesters and our L2T (Leadership, Life Skills & Technology) program, a meet and greet with coaches and club officers, and more. Many of these activities included speeches from our students. If you were here, you already know how impressive they were. I could not have been more proud of the passion and heart with which they represented OLMA that day. I've included a few photos below.

This week, we've been preparing for Tuesday's semi-formal and 7th and 8th Grade Shadow Day. Our students also took to the stage as part of the annual OLMA-Prep Musical. This year's show is Guys & Dolls and is awesome. Opening night was on Wednesday. It continues tonight and tomorrow with 7 pm shows each night. We hope to see you in the audience.

Next week, brings with it Thanksgiving. We certainly have a lot to be thankful for. I know I do, least of which is all of you. I wish you a wonderful holiday with friends and family. May God grant you and yours many blessings this holiday season. Be well. -- Mrs. Coyle
Student Spotlight
Ava Casale, Class of 2020
After spending her first two years of high school on another campus, Ava Casale decided to make a change. While she performed well both academically and athletically at her former school, she felt that something was missing. Fast forward a few months and the decision to transfer, and Ava says she found that something and so much more.

"I'm so happy to be here," said Ava. "The environment at OLMA is so different from what I was used to. Everyone is very close and I feel like I actually have relationships with my teachers. They all know me and exactly what I need to succeed. I love every one of my classes and have made great new friends."

Ava was one of five young women to transfer into the Class of 2020 this year. "It was great because there were a few of us who were new," said Ava. "We were invited to the Big-Little Sleepover, assigned Big Sisters and immediately felt at home. I also started practicing with the soccer team which is a family all its own. We take care of each other and, while athletics here are very competitive, they are also still fun. I think a lot of that comes from the overall culture of the school."

While we knew Ava was a talented athlete, we didn't know just how great a leader she was -- until last week's Powder Puff game. Led by Ava, the junior class team won the first round and then faced the seniors in the final. "We only had time to practice together for about an hour before the real thing," said Ava. "That wasn't much time, but I knew we would be okay. As quarterback, I asked them to trust me, and they did. We are a small class,so we all played the whole game, which gave us time to really gel. One play at a time, we worked together, trusted each other and got the win. It was so much fun. I wouldn't have missed it for anything." Ava was named the team MVP.

In addition to her love of football, Ava also played soccer for OLMA this fall and will be on the basketball court beginning next week. She also plans to play softball in the spring. "No one really likes to change schools half way though high school, but OLMA made it easy," said Ava. "The transition was seamless and I'm so glad I made the move." We are too, Ava. We can't wait to see what you do next.
The Class of 2020 Powder Puff Team
An Instant Success
This year's Instant Decision Day was a huge success. On November 6, OLMA hosted 10 colleges and universities. Thirty-two seniors (who had previously applied to one or more of these schools) participated in interviews, earning a total of 60 acceptances. "For many of the girls, these acceptances were their first," says Mrs. Coyle. "They can now take a breath knowing they are on their way. This day is one of my favorites every year. It's an unbelievable confidence booster, which is what we're all about." Here are a few photo highlights of the day.
Mary Meduri Signs Letter of Intent
When it comes to talented athletes, OLMA has its fair share. While small in size, OLMA consistently produces student athletes who catch the eye of college coaches nationwide. Senior, Mary Meduri, is the latest one to do just that. On Wednesday, friends, family and teammates gathered at OLMA to watch Mary sign her National Letter of Intent. While we are not ready to let her go just yet, we could not be more excited for Mary as she prepares to live her dream of playing collegiate lacrosse at Lock Haven University next fall! Congratulations Mary. You continue to make us proud both on and off the lacrosse field.
Thanks for Giving Food Drive Ends Monday
The OLMA Interact Club needs your help as it wraps up its Thanks for Giving Food Drive. The food collected will feed eight needy area families for Thanksgiving and then some! Each homeroom has a few items to bring in. The first to finish its list wins a Dunkin' Donut and Hot Cocoa breakfast party.

A huge thanks to everyone who has already contributed. We are still missing many items, though, and these families are counting on us. To find out what's needed by homeroom, please click here . Please contact your Interact homeroom leader or Mrs. Kinkade with any questions. Thank you!
'Tis the Season for SCRIP
Believe it or not, Black Friday is a mere week away, with Cyber Monday just three days later! If you want to save while you shop, the time is now to order your SCRIP. Plus, using gift cards is the safest way to shop online. As an added incentive, students will receive a dress down day pass if their families order at least $50 worth of SCRIP every Friday, or a total of $500 or more at any one time in November. Click here to take a look at the many retail stores that participate in SCRIP -- and get those orders in! Thank you!
Upcoming Events

Guys and Dolls School Musical -- November 14, 16, 17

7th & 8th Grade Shadow Day -- November 20

Semi Formal -- November 20 (Noon Dismissal)

Thanksgiving Break -- November 21-25

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