Chez News

Chez News: October 2020

Letter from the President

October 19, 2020

Dear Notre Dame,

Today marks our 33rd day of classes for the school year. This issue of Chez News includes a full explanation of the hybrid learning experience at Notre Dame. We are grateful to everyone involved: teachers, students and administrators for being flexible and talented enough to continue our mission of academic excellence especially during a pandemic.

When reflecting on schedule and academic excellence, one person who was a leader in both regards was Sr. Sarah Ryan, P.B.V.M. Sadly, Sr. Sarah died peacefully on Sunday, October 18th in Windsor, NY. Sr. Sarah began her career at Notre Dame in 1986 when she taught theology and was the school's librarian. While at Notre Dame, Sr. Sarah touched the lives of many students, mentored several of Notre Dame's faculty and administrators, and was a trusted friend to all. Sr. Sarah retired in 2015 at the time she was diagnosed with cancer. With her resilient spirit, she continued to live a full life in New York City until just a few weeks ago. May she rest in peace and enjoy the fullness of life of which she spoke about so well.

Notre Dame continues and we look forward to holding our annual Open House this Sunday, October 25th, from 1-5pm. This year, reservations are required for our in-person Open House and we are currently sold out. Should you want to participate in our virtual Open House, or know any 6th, 7th, or 8th graders who may be interested in ND, please have them register here. (CLICK HERE).

I hope everyone continues to practice social distancing so that all of us can remain safe and well. May God bless you and your families.

Warm regards,

Dr. Virginia O'Brien, S.U.

President

Hybrid Heroes!

Mr. Kevin McDonald welcoming his new students

Ms. Yasmin Hassan teaching one of her in-person classes on campus

Notre Dame is in its second month of the new school year with a creative combination of hybrid, synchronous and asynchronous learning. To read more about this successful combination of educational strategies and how ND faculty and students are making it work, CLICK HERE.

ND faculty preparing for Zoom classes with students learning remotely.

Ms. Susan Shea-Klot beginning her in-person Latin class

Principal of Notre Dame, Ms. Jackie Brilliant, teaching AP English Literature to her students at home

ND is Alive With the Sound of Music!

The pandemic has limited the celebration of the arts in New York City, impacting concerts and musical performances. Notre Dame has found innovative ways to keep music education alive and thriving through courses, field trips, and activities. CLICK HERE to read more.

A Central Park retreat and rehearsal for ND's Glee Club

Ms. Nicole Wakabayashi introducing note reading and music appreciation to her new students

in Choir 9

Students in Choir 10 attending the

Ellen Reid Soundwalk in Central Park

The ND Dragons are on Fire!

Notre Dame's spring athletics were cancelled last March due to the pandemic and resulting health risks. With careful planning and new safety policies, fall sports are up and running and the ND Dragons are on a roll! To read about our ND teams and their successes, CLICK HERE.