Dear Parents and Guardians,
As the proud principal of Cardinal O’Hara, I am thrilled to share some highlights of what makes us so exceptional. I was a teacher and leader at both the university level and in public education before returning to my roots in Catholic education, as a student in the 1980s and now as principal. Now in my fifth year, I am honored to serve as the Principal of Cardinal O’Hara High School.
While academics, extra-curricular activities, the arts, and athletics are important, our Catholic identity is at the center of all we do. It is in this area where our lions shine – serving the community through our Community Service Corps (CSC), fundraising for Catholic Charities Appeal and the Archdiocesan Schools of Special Education, Catholic Relief Services, and pediatric cancer charities through Lions Philanthropy. In these ways our students live out the mission of the church and the call of Pope Francis. Our students attend school mass at least once a month, have the opportunity for confession, can participate in Catholic Athletes for Christ and other organizations that support Catholic teaching. We have held over 100 Kairos retreats in addition to our yearly student retreats.
In Academics, O’Hara truly shines. This year, we have four National Merit recognized students. Our teachers continue to work hard to set high expectations and deliver engaging content, utilizing technology students can expect to encounter in college and the work place. We have added several electives this year driven by student request and interest including Forensics, Street Law, Introduction to Business and updated our 9
th
grade tech course to include more coding. Many of our students take advantage of supplemental educational opportunities such as the Medical Careers Programs, courses through the Delaware Country Career and Technical High School, and college level classes at Delaware County Community College. This year we are especially proud to announce a funded program through Neumann University. Students will earn three college credits in Public Speaking or Criminal Justice for just the cost of books!
Another area where we excel is the arts – Band/Guard and theater performances are legendary in our area and our choir is unmatched. Please be sure to check the calendar and attend at least one performance – you will not be disappointed!
Cardinal O’Hara is proud of our highly competitive teams and the team spirit our coaches help build in all our lions. While we have celebrated many championship victories, we are most proud of the intense effort our student athletes put towards athletics and academics.
After the 8th period bell, there is still much to offer and much to do. From Yearbook to Student Council to Mathletes to Robotics to World Affairs, O’Hara has it all. If there isn’t a club here for you, students are charged with starting one and should reach out to Assistant Principal Jodi Evert to discuss options!
Thank you for trusting us to provide a quality Catholic education to your son or daughter. We are thrilled to welcome them, and you, into our community!
God Bless,
Mrs. Vice
Principal
