The OLMA Overview -- December 6, 2019
This morning's Junior Ring Mass was spectacular. As I watched the girls and listened to the remarks they prepared, I was reminded yet again of what makes OLMA such a special place to attend high school. The girls truly care for and about one another. They have a bond that grows stronger each day. By the time they graduate it is unbreakable.

While class rings have fallen out of style in many high schools, they are a longtime and treasured tradition at OLMA. Ring Mass represents the beginning of the junior class' transition into senior year. Class of 2021, you are a powerhouse and I am proud of each and every one of you. Before you know it, you will be seniors for real. I have no doubt that you will be ready. Many thanks to Sr. Margaret, Mr. Coyle, Ms. Hopman, Mrs. Helms, Mrs. Blackshear and chorus, as well as to the Parents Society for making today's celebration perfect.

Today is the official launch of the 2019-2020 Annual Fund Campaign. With nearly $20,000 already raised, we are on our way. We have accomplished a lot over the last four years and have big plans for much more. Please help us bring them to life for our students with a gift to this year's Annual Fund. I know you hear this all the time, but every dollar really does count. It all adds up in support of a school and students we all know and love.

Next week marks the final five days of classes before mid-term exams. These days are precious, so please be present and ready to work. We'll end the week with a festive afternoon. Santa Claus will make an appearance as we hold our annual Advent Angel Reveal party. By the way, if you haven't been here over the last week, you may want to stop in. We are decked out like never before. Thank you, Mrs. Shields!

Have a wonderful weekend. -- Mrs. Coyle
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: MEET ASHLEY PRESGRAVES, CLASS OF 2023
While a bit quiet and reserved on the outside, this OLMA freshman is a fierce competitor when she's on her horse. Ashley Presgraves is an experienced equestrian. Her family owns seven horses, three of which Ashley shows. Inspired by her grandmother, on the farm with her horses is her favorite place to be. "I began riding when I was four years old," said Ashley. "My grandmother loves horses so much that when she was a girl she used to take her neighbor's horse and ride it. She didn't have her own, but she wasn't going to let that stop her. I'm told that I'm a lot like my grandmother, which is fine with me."

Ashley rides in Western Pleasure and Gaming competitions. This year was her first as part of the High School Rodeo Association and she made the state championships. She placed in eight events and took first place overall in Keyhole. That's quite an accomplishment! While her season is finished for this year, she is anxious for spring when it will start all over again.

Until then, Ashley is playing basketball and is a member of OLMA's Interact and Archery clubs. She says that her favorite part of OLMA is the teachers. "They are all so nice," said Ashley. "High school is a big adjustment and they've really helped me." While she likes all of her classes, her favorites so far this year are Geography and Literature. As is the case when she's at a competition and about to show one of her horses, Ashley sometimes gets nervous when trying new things, but she does it. Best of all, she is determined to always give her absolute best. Congratulations, Ashley. We are so glad you're here.
RINGS ALL AROUND
The members of the junior class outdid themselves as today's Ring Mass was one of OLMA's finest. It was a perfect mix of traditions old and new with large doses both of sisterhood and the Chorus Angelorum. Congratulations on reaching this important milestone in your OLMA career. Below are some photo highlights along with a link where junior families can find more.
ATHLETICS HEADLINES
The Swim team had a terrific performance yesterday! CONGRATULATIONS to Isabella Rossi for breaking the school record in the 200 IM by over two seconds! For more information on joining the team email mr.lenguadoro@olmanj.org
The Bowling team won its first game of the year! Meadow Karpiak and Derien Hartline led the team with the high series, while Maggie Douglas had the high game. Want to bowl? email mr.lenguadoro@olmanj.org

OLMA Soccer team hauled in the hardware at the CAL Awards ceremony this week. Coach Burhanna, Isabella Burhanna, Olivia Fiocchi, and Gianna Patitucci proudly represented the United Division Champions. Congratulations to the entire team for a terrific season. 

2019-2020 ANNUAL FUND DRIVE
LAUNCHES TODAY
It takes only one conversation with an OLMA student or alumna to know that something exciting is happening here. The young women in our classrooms today have big plans. They will be some of tomorrow’s boldest leaders and excel in science, engineering, technology, business, medicine, education, social services, the arts, and more.

As educators, we want nothing more than to see them succeed, but we can’t do it alone. As is the case with nearly all private schools, tuition alone isn’t enough to fully cover the costs of educating our students. That’s why we’re asking for your support of this year’s Annual Fund.  

CLICK HERE to find out more and make your gift. For questions, please call the Development office at (856) 697-2008, ext. 140. We cannot thank you enough.
ORDER DEADLINE EXTENDED TO DEC. 13
If you are looking for the perfect gift for your OLMA or Villa girl, we have just the thing. Our Lady of Mercy Academy, together with Williamstown Diamonds and Fine Jewelry, proudly presents this first edition keepsake necklace! It's gorgeous! Click here for an order form. THE LAST DAY TO ORDER FOR CHRISTMAS IS DECEMBER 13
ALUMNAE NEW YEAR MASS AND MEET & GREET
ATTENTION ALUMNAE: We invite you to join us on Friday, January 10, 2020, for a special Mass, followed by an informal update from Mrs. Coyle and current students, lunch, and tours. Please plan to arrive and gather in the Chapel entrance by 9:45 AM. Mass will begin at 10 AM and will include our entire school community. Alumnae who have not already done so will have the opportunity to sign the OLMA Sisterhood Book.
 
We hope you will join us for this special morning to reconnect with teachers and friends, as well as to find out what's new. Please use the form linked below to RSVP by Monday, January 6, 2020.
SAVE THE DATE
SUPER 50-50 DRAWING PARTY
This year's event features a Roaring Twenties theme and is set for Saturday, February 22, 2020. Tickets are $100 each and include dinner for two and a chance to win cash and prizes of up to $10,000. We sold out way in advance of the event last year and tickets are already going fast! Get yours while they last! Click here for an order form.
Upcoming Events

Class of 2024 Entrance Exam -- December 7; 9-11 AM

Christmas Mass -- December 12; 10 AM (All are welcome!)

AA Reveal Party -- December 13

LAST DAY to Order Christmas SCRIP -- December 13

LAST DAY to Order OLMA Necklaces for Christmas Delivery -- December 13

Open Study Day -- December 16; 8:15 AM--12 PM (Freshmen and Sophomores)

Mid-Terms -- December 17-19 (Buses @12:30 PM)

Exam Make-Up Day - - December 20

Christmas Break -- December 21--January 5

Alumnae New Year Mass -- January 10, 2020


CLICK HERE for all Athletic Schedules

CLICK HERE for the 2019-2020 School Calendar


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