The OLMA Overview -- February 23, 2019
On Wednesday, Ms. Valore and I traveled to New York City to participate in the Educating Girls Symposium sponsored by the National Coalition of Girls' Schools. Despite the snow, the conference was very well attended. The energy and enthusiasm for preparing young women to lead and succeed was amazing.

Ms. Valore and I hosted a session on OLMA's Bravery Training course and the role it plays as part of our overall L2T (leadership, life skills and technology) Program. The conference began with keynote speaker, Claire Shipman. If her name doesn't ring a bell, her face will as Ms. Shipman is the senior national correspondent for ABCs Good Morning America . She is also the author of The Confidence Code for Girls . Her talk was fantastic and we learned a lot. We were also excited to see that we are already providing some of the key opportunities for girls that she recommended.

Our session was very well attended and the participants had lots of questions, which is always a good sign. Many of the professionals there were eager to return to their schools to try and implement similar programs, as the confidence students are building here at OLMA is amazing.

While we're on the subject of building confidence, next week our juniors will participate in Mock Interview Day. Four outside professionals will be on campus to conduct interviews and give immediate feedback. This type of preparation is invaluable as our students get ready for college interviews. They learn how to create a resume, properly introduce themselves, answer questions confidently, talk about their successes, and how to dress. We look forward to seeing them shine, as we know they will.

Finally, the members of the Class of 2019 will travel to Walt Disney World for their senior trip next week. I can't believe they have only three short months left with us until graduation. My best for a fantastic weekend. -- Mrs. Coyle

P.S. -- Check out the quick video clip we used as part of our Bravery Training presentation.
Student Spotlight: Meet Hailea Anderson
Class of 2022
This OLMA freshman, Hailea Anderson, is always smiling and is a breath of fresh air as she and her friends bop around the school having the time of their lives. Hailea laughs about it now, but remembers telling her parents that she wanted no part of OLMA. She was sure she would not like it -- until she shadowed. "I came to a group shadow day when I was in seventh grade and loved it," she said. "I wasn't even a student here yet, but felt completely comfortable. I'm so glad I took the time to shadow, or I would have missed out on a lot."

Hailea describes her transition from middle school to high school as easy. I started practicing with the soccer team in the summer and also met so many people at the Big-Little Sleepover that I felt at home even before I got here," said Hailea. "There's nothing quite like being with a 100 other girls sitting and talking in a giant gym at 1 AM. It was great."

In addition to playing soccer, Hailea is a member of the OLMA Swim Team and is rowing crew this spring. "Today is our first day of practice on the river," she said. "I'm a little nervous, but I know it will be fun." In addition to sports, Hailea is a class representative on Student Council, a Chorus member and a member of the Interact Club. In fact, she and her friends on the club's fundraising committee came up with the idea of designing and selling OLMA Pura Vida bracelets, which were a huge hit.

Hailea says she's grateful for the tough academics at OLMA. "The teachers challenge us and make us responsible for all aspects of the course," she said. "We're definitely not in middle school anymore." No, you're not -- and we're so glad.
OLMA Senior Plays at Kimmel Center
Yes, you read that right. OLMA senior, Ashley Iveson, was on stage at the Kimmel Center last Sunday performing as part of the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra. Ashley plays many instruments, but her first love is the cello. Her talent earned her a place in this prestigious organization.

On Sunday, she was one of 135 music students who were rewarded by standing ovation after standing ovation. OLMA teacher, Mrs. Blackshear, was there to witness it. "The performance was simply breathtaking," she said. "I thought I was in Carnegie Hall. This was the first time I heard the Kimmel Center Organ, which is the one of the largest in the world, performing with the youth orchestra. All I can say is Wow!" Congratulations Ashley! You continue to amaze us with your musical talent! You are a treasure.

P.S. -- Ashley is in the third row, all the way down on the right.
Get Your New Spring Gear Here
OLMA Outfitters is now carrying items for non-athletes and alumnae. Plus, it offers a full line of spirit wear for all spring athletes and fans. The spring order deadline is March 1 , so there's no time to waste. For questions, contact Mr. Lenguadoro at mr.lenguadoro@olmanj.org. To place an order, click on the button below.
Craving Chocolate?
We can fix that! OLMA students are selling Gertrude Hawk Chocolates and other sweet treats. All proceeds will go directly into an account for your daughter's senior trip to Disney. It will be here before you know it, so the time is now to save. All orders with payments are due by March 14.  Orders will be ready for pick up by April 8.

Are you a parent or student who wants to set up an online selling account so friends and family can pay by credit card? If so, go to www.GertrudeHawkFundraising.com and follow the instructions provided. Our school group number is 115240. Enjoy!
Seniors: New Scholarships Just Added
The search for colleges and scholarships go hand in hand. Fortunately, there are thousands of scholarships out there — if you can find them. Two ways to research opportunities include stopping by OLMA’s Guidance office and utilizing your Naviance account. You can also check out the list linked here . New scholarships are added almost daily, so please check back often.
Designer Bag BINGO on April 6
Order Your Tickets Today
Get set to play BINGO and WIN DESIGNER BAGS! It all happens on Saturday, April 6, 2019 in Carew Hall. Doors open at 6 PM and tickets are just $35. Click below to order yours.
Upcoming Events

Super 50-50 Drawing Party -- Saturday, February 23

Mindful Monday YOGA -- February 25

Senior Trip - February 27-March 3

Mindful Monday YOGA -- March 4

Ash Wednesday Mass -- March 6 (at OLMA)

Blood Drive -- March 11

SpeakUp! -- March 12

NHS Induction Ceremony -- March 13

Designer Bag BINGO -- April 6

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