The OLMA Overview -- November 1, 2019
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And just like that, it's November. We are now in the heart of fall and busier than ever. This morning, we celebrated All Saints Day Mass with our brothers at St. Augustine Prep. Bishop Dennis Sullivan officiated and our girls did a wonderful job with both the readings and music. This Saturday night, OLMA Athletics' Green & Gold Club will hold its first annual Dueling Pianos fundraiser. We are expecting a great crowd in support of our students.
Next week begins with special assemblies at both OLMA and the Prep on the dangers of vaping. Students will participate during the day. In the evening, we have arranged to have the same presenters from Steered Straight Inc. run an assembly for parents of students from both schools. I encourage you to attend. The use of e-cigarette devices has reached epidemic proportions among teenagers and is resulting in serious health issues and in many cases, death. I hope you will take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about the facts behind this crisis and what's being done to solve it nationwide. Parent, your attendance will also earn your daughter a dress down pass!
On Tuesday, our seniors will participate in Instant Decision and College Interview Day. Nine colleges and universities will be on campus to meet with students who have applied for admission. Many girls will find out on the spot if they are accepted, and some will also be offered Merit Scholarships. This is always one of the most exciting days of the year.
On Wednesday afternoon, we will hold a pep rally in advance of that evening's Powder Puff games. Join us under the lights as teams from each grade battle it out for the championship title. Game time is 6 PM!
We are counting on Wednesday evening's excitement to carry over into the next day as we host nearly 100 7th and 8th-grade girls for our annual Group Shadow Day. We've switched up the format a little this year and can't wait to watch the day unfold. It will culminate in a service project in honor of local veterans, just in time for Veterans Day weekend. We look forward to seeing many of you on campus next week. Until then, enjoy this weekend's fine fall weather. -- Mrs. Coyle
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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: ALEXI BRUNNER
CLASS OF 2023
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We talk a lot about helping our students grow by stepping out of their comfort zones and trying new things. OLMA freshman, Alexi Brunner is quite literally way ahead of the curve as she trains for her first motor cross race. This seemingly mild mannered young woman recently kicked her soccer ball to the side and replaced it with a dirt bike and a serious fitness regime.
While she wasn't new to riding, Alexi decided it was time to give it her all with the goal of racing competitively. "I've been riding since I was six years old and was inspired by my Dad to take it to the next level," said Alexi. "I ride one to two hours a day and work out six to seven days a week. I lift, do cardio and mountain bike to build my endurance. That's really important if I want to race." Alexi says that she practices at a nearby track and behind her house, which is located in a wooded area. "I loved soccer and played for 10 years as a goal keeper," she said. "I enjoyed the team sport but decided to switch to one where everything is up to me." Alexi also likes the idea of breaking into a traditionally male-dominated sport. "Women are starting to emerge as great racers and I want to be one of them," she said.
It's little surprise that Alexi's favorite course so far this year is Bravery Forward. "I like it because there's no hiding," she said. "We are all challenged to participate, but it works because we are in a safe, comfortable environment. I always feel on task in that class." Alexi is also enjoying the self defense classes she has as part of Lifetime Fitness. "I had done a little bit of it before, this is giving me an opportunity to get better," she said. When club block rolls around on Thursdays, you can find Alexi with Mr. Lenguadoro in Archery.
Alexi attended middle school at St. Joe's in Hammonton where she says she had a lot of guy friends. "There weren't many girls in my class at the time, so I wasn't sure how I would like OLMA," said Alexi. "I shadowed and found that I really liked it. I'm glad that I'm here."
We are too, Alexi. We can't wait to see you race!
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It's time for a magic carpet ride to the 2019 OLMA Semi Formal! Tickets are on sale now.
Semi will be held on Tuesday, November 26, from 6:30 PM--10:30 PM at The Grove at Centerton. Tickets are $65 each or $125 per couple.
Deadline for purchasing tickets is November 12. See Ms. Hop with any questions.
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Family Bowling Night was a great way to usher in OLMA's 14th competitive sport! All students interested in joining the team must have their paperwork turned into Mr. Lenguadoro by Thursday, November 7. All are welcome!
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PARENT ASSEMBLY MONDAY NIGHT
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Our Lady of Mercy Academy will be educating students about the dangers of using e-cigarette devices and marijuana during a special assembly on November 4. The assembly promises to be informative and engaging, as well as give our children pause when facing decisions that could impact their health.
An assembly for parents of students from OLMA and St. Augustine Prep will take place that evening in OLMA's Carew Hall 6:30-8:30 PM.
Parents of OLMA students who attend will earn their daughters a dress down day pass for use later this semester.
The assemblies will be facilitated by Steered Straight Inc. Students and parents alike can expect an atypical presentation that covers the following topics:
- How nicotine can alter nerve cell functioning in adolescent development
- Each JUUL pod is equal to 200 cigarette puffs (a full pack of cigarettes)
- Popcorn lung & other bronchial problems
- Studies that link a higher rate of depression among JUUL smokers
- Vapes may contain formaldehyde, embalming fluid & other dangerous substances
- Health risks of inhaling metal particles & metal traces
- Lack of long-term scientific studies supporting the safety or benefits of use.
Join us as we address and educate our school community about one of the most serious public health crisis facing our children and the world today. We look forward to seeing you on Monday.
If you have any questions please contact either Mrs. Szawlewicz or Ms. Farnoly in the Guidance Department.
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The best way to know if a school is right for you is to give it a try. On Thursday, November 7, we invite area 7th and 8th-grade girls to experience OLMA as part of our annual Group Shadow Day.
Check-in begins at 8 AM in Carew Hall gymnasium and dismissal will be at 1 PM. Shadows will travel in small groups to Chapel where they will be welcomed by our Head of School and participate in a brief prayer service. They will also get a sneak peek into classes, go on a campus-wide photo scavenger hunt, participate in a Veterans Day service project, enjoy a small group lunchtime Q&A session, participate in a student-run Brave Forward activity, and get a taste of the OLMA Sisterhood.
For questions or more information contact Mrs. Kinkade at mrs.kinkade@olmanj.org.
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LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT GIFT?
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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.
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Dueling Pianos
-- November 2
Fall Back! Set Your Clocks Back One Hour -- November 3
School Photo Retakes
-- November 4
Dangers of Vaping Assemblies
-- November 4
College Interview and Instant Decision Day -- November 5
OLMA Powder Puff Game
-- November 6
GROUP Shadow Day
-- November 7; 1 PM Dismissal
NO School
-- November 8
B
lood Drive
-- November 12
Mass
-- November 15
Entrance Exam Testing
-- November 16
S
emi Formal
-- November 26
THANKSGIVING BREAK
-- November 27-30
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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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