The same chair is used in a new advertising campaign, with a young Catholic school boy sitting in it, in front of the hallowed, wooden doors of Holy Name School in Camden. Tradition meeting the future.

“My future is not yet written,” the ad says. “Become part of our story. Be part of something great.”

Catholic Partnership Schools, which inhabits the second floor of this Camden building and is responsible for the advertisement, is working to make great the futures of the 1,000 students who attend Camden-area schools.

The Partnership was established in 2008 by the Diocese of Camden and the International Education Foundation/Catholic School Development Program, and was formerly known as the Catholic School Partnership. The initiative’s mission is to strengthen and sustain the inner-city K-8 Catholic schools in the impoverished Camden City area: Holy Name, Sacred Heart, St. Anthony of Padua, St. Joseph Pro-Cathedral, and Pennsauken’s St. Cecilia School.

Based on research and analysis, the partnership bills itself as a “new and dynamic model of Catholic urban education,” and has top education, management, finance and advancement executives assisting in helping Camden students to receive the best possible school experience.

With increased school enrollment, funding, and emphasis on excellence, the partnership hopes to cultivate schools that will have educational resources and practices, and strong business models, that will bring students better and more effective recreational facilities, after school and summer programs, science labs, dedicated art programs, integrated technology, and classroom teaching.

For Camden’s students, “so many of their lives are in flux,” said Sister Karen Dietrich, SSJ, executive director of the Catholic Partnership Schools.

“Our children need a constancy, a presence of loving adults in their lives. Given the reality of their everydays, these Camden schools, which have been anchors in their communities for so long, need to be home.”

Working with Sister Karen in the partnership — a “convergence of education, opportunity, and developmental efforts,” she says — are a finance manager, a director of development and communications, and an enrollment and community relations coordinator. Each works, she said, to “give children the opportunity of a quality education, rooted in faith-based values.”

She added, “We need resources to provide children with quality education, with programming resources, to relieve (students’ families of) tuition burden.”

Some outsiders might see Camden as a violent and drug-ridden place to pass through on the way to the Ben Franklin Bridge, Sister Karen said, but its children are just like everyone else’s. “Camden children want to be loved, happy, successful, to be able to follow their passion.”

Catholic Partnership Schools has partnered with families, communities and businesses to get the word out about Catholic urban education. As well, local philanthropists, entrepreneurs, and family foundations have pledged their support.

Two digital billboards, including the one featuring the boy in front of Holy Name, are visible near the Ben Franklin Bridge and the Airport Circle, to spread the message of Catholic schools in Camden.

“This is a great obligation we have. The ministry of education is an important ministry for the Catholic Church,” Sister Karen said.

“These children deserve the opportunity. We have no idea what these children are meant to bring to the world; we have a responsibility to nurture them. It’s the beginning of their story; we have to ensure the end is as God would want it to be.”

For more information on Catholic Partnership Schools, go to www.catholicpartnershipschools.org or call 856-338-0966.

Photo at left: Seventh grade teacher Kathy Mercier works with a student.

First in a series of short profiles of Camden Partnership Schools.

CAMDEN — Sitting in the heart of North Camden since 1927, Holy Name School continues to be a source of hope and optimism for students and parents.

“Holy Name is right at the center, offering continued excellence,” said Karen Dietrich, executive director of Catholic Partnership Schools.

Opening in September 1927, and originally staffed by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Chestnut Hill, Pa., the 2010-11 school year began with 155 students enrolled from K-8 — a 10 percent increase from last year.

“We want to provide quality Catholic education, so students succeed here, in high school, in college, and beyond,” said Patricia Quinter, Principal at Holy Name.

With a mostly Hispanic student body, among African-American, Causasian, and multi-racial students, the school provides language and speech support. Each classroom has seven internet-accessible computers and one printer to provide students with comprehensive math and reading programs.

Every morning, breakfast is provided, along with lunch in the afternoon.

In keeping with Quinter’s goal of having a “safe environment” in the school, students are educated daily on the dangers of bullying, alcohol and drugs.

Upcoming activities include a walk-a-thon next month, not only to raise money, but to “show school spirit and promote Catholic education.” The 6th-8th grade basketball program will continue this fall, and continue into the spring and summer, and it is hoped that a street hockey program will be implemented soon, as well.

Many families are unable to provide for essential school supplies, but individuals provide donations of pencils, backpacks and clothes.

“Pencils are like gold in this school,” Quinter says.

The Holy Name principal is extremely grateful for the help from people, such as retirees, who will tutor the children or provide stationery to students, or even sweatshirts to each one in the winter months.

The help “is such an asset, an advantage to our children,” she says, and helps to give them a “cheerful, happy” school experience, and one that is filled with quality, Catholic education.

For more information on Holy Name, go to www.catholicpartnershipschools.org

The Philly Phanatic greets Dennis Maiorano, who holds Summer, a dog he adopted through M.O.M.S. (Making of Miracle Stories) Animal Rescue, at a showing of a film about the organization at the Trocadero Theatre in Philadelphia Aug. 19. Students from St. Joseph School, Hammonton, sang at the event.

In a packed concert hall in North Philadelphia the night of Thursday, Aug. 19, animal lovers and their furry friends came together to celebrate the completion of a film that showcasing the work of a Hammonton animal rescue organization.

M.O.M.S. (Making of Miracle Stories) Animal Rescue showed their film “Take Me Home: The true story of the Georgia Puppy Caravan,” produced by Ningun Films at the Trocadero Theatre in Philadelphia.

In August 2009, individuals from South Jersey, including students from St. Joseph’s Regional School in Hammonton, rode RVs, cars, trucks left Lindenwold for Summerville, Georgia, to pick up dogs and cats in an animal shelter where, sooner or later, the animals would lose their lives. Taking 138 animals from Chattooga Animal Control, the Georgia Puppy Caravan brought them back to South Jersey, and placed in rescue homes.

The documentary highlights the importance of humane treatment for animals and of pressuring government officials to provide proper funds to shelters that would allow them to give animals adequate care.

On hand for the documentary viewing were friends and sponsors of the effort, which included local and national animal rescue organizations, and students from St. Joseph’s Regional School. M.O.M.S. started as a spin-off from Paws for a Cause, which has also raised awareness of the plight of animals living in overcrowded shelters.

Before the film, a song created specifically for the documentary, “Hold On,” was performed by North Carolina singer/songwriter Melissa Pascoe, with St. Joseph’s students. Last December, Pascoe and students recorded another song, “That’s The Thing,” in Vineland, also used in the documentary.

Members of the St. Augustine Preparatory School, Richland, incoming Class of 2014 pose for a photo at Morey’s Pier, Wildwood, on Sunday, Aug. 29. The school sponsored the day there for students, faculty, staff and parents.

Discover the great things happening at Catholic schools in the Diocese of Camden. The formula is simple: combine challenging academic programs with spiritual development, a safe, ordered environment and high caliber educators and get a great education. See the difference Catholic education makes.

High Schools

(listed alphabetically by town)

Holy Spirit High School (9-12)

Absecon

(609) 646-3000

President: Rev. Perry Cherubini

Principal: Mrs. Susan Dennen

www.holyspirithighschool.com

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Susan Woerner

Camden Catholic High School (9-12)

Cherry Hill

www.camdencatholic.org

(856) 663-2247

President: Mr. Jeffrey Nick

Principal: Mr. Thomas Kiely

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Admissions Director Richard Crowell

rcrowell@camdencatholic.org

Gloucester Catholic High School (9-12)

Gloucester

www.gchsrams.org

(856) 456-4400

Principal: Mr. John Colman

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Mr. John Colman

GCHSGPrincipal@camdendiocese.org

Paul VI High School (9-12)

Haddonfield

www.pvihs.org

(856) 858-4900

President: Rev. Robert Hughes

Principal: Sister Marianne McCann, MPF

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Admissions Director Katy Stewart

kstewart@pvihs.com

St. Joseph High School (9-12)

Hammonton

www.stjoek12.org

(609) 561-8700

Interim President: Mr. Nicholas Regina

Principal: Mrs. Lynn Domenico

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Rhonda Bianchini

RBianchini@stjoek12.org

Sacred Heart High (9-12)

Vineland

www.shhslions.com

(856) 691-4491

President: Rev. Edward Namiotka

Principal: Mrs. Diane Tucker

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact:Admissions Director Dominie Dondero

ddondero@shhslions.com

Wildwood Catholic High (9-12)

North Wildwood

www.wildwoodcatholic.org

(609) 522-7257

President: Rev. Joseph Wallace

Dean of Academics: Mr. Theodore Pugliese

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Development Director Kevin Quinn

k.quinn@wildwoodcatholic.org

Private High Schools

(listed alphabetically by town)

Our Lady of Mercy Academy (9-12)

Newfield

www.olmanj.org

(856) 697-2008

Principal: Sister Grace Marie, DM

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact:

Sister Grace Marie

srgrace@olmanj.org

Bishop Eustace Prep (9-12)

Pennsauken

www.eustace.org

(856) 662-2160

Headmaster: Br. James Beamesderfer, S.A.C.

Principal: Ms. Cyril Bleistine

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Nick Italiano

nitaliano@eustace.org

St. Augustine Prep (9-12)

Richland

www.hermits.com

(856) 697-2600

President: Rev. Paul Galetto, OSA

Principal: Rev. Francis Horn, OSA

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Linda Pine

Mrs.Pine@hermits.com

Elementary Schools

(listed alphabetically by town)

Assumption School (PK-8)

Atco

www.assumptionparishatco.com

(856) 767-0569

Principal: Mr. Paul Ricci

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Tina Kennevan (856) 767-1143

tkennevan@assumptionschoolatco.com

Our Lady Star of the Sea Regional School (PK-8)

Atlantic City

www.olssparish.com

(609) 345-0648

Principal: Sister Mary Shamus Zehrer, RSM

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Sister Mary Shamus Zehrer, RSM

OLSSACPrincipal@camdendiocese.org

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Regional School

(PK-8) Berlin

www.olmcparish.net

(856) 767-1751

Principal: Sister Mary Ellen Tucker, OSF

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Vice Principal for Advancement Anthony Paolini

apaolini@olmc-school.org

Our Lady of Hope Regional School (PK-8)

Blackwood

www.ourladyofhopecatholicschool.org

(856) 227-4442

Principal: Sister Paula Marie Randow, OSF

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Jennifer VanEs

jbvanes@comcast.net

Bishop McHugh Regional School (PK-8)

Cape May Court House

www.bishopmchugh.com

(609) 624-1900

Principal: Ms. Barbara Byrne

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Ms. Barbara Byrne

BMCMCHPrincipal@camdendiocese.org

Resurrection Catholic School (PK-8)

Cherry Hill

www.resurrection-catholic.com

(856) 667-3034

Principal: Mrs. Camille Forrest

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Alli Smith

asmith@resurrection-catholic.com

(856) 667-3034, ext. 227

St. Michael the Archangel Regional School (PK-8)

Clayton

www.saintmichaelsonline.com

(856) 881-0067

Principal: Miss Janice Bruni

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Monica Dempster

advancement@smrsonline.com

Good Shepherd Regional School (PK-8)

Collingswood

www.goodshepherdrcs.org

(856) 858-1562

Principal: Mr. Donald Garecht

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Mrs. Diane Gallagher

goodshepherdgallagher@verizon.net

St. Mary Regional School (PK-8)

East Vineland

www.smrschool.org

(856) 692-8537

Principal: Sister Margaret Curcio, D.M.

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Carol Kirshman

ckirchman@smrschool.org

Assumption Regional Catholic School (PK-8)

Galloway

www.arcsgalloway.org

(609) 652-7134

Principal: Mrs. Mary Ellen Schurtz

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Marsha Higbee

mhigbee@arcsgalloway.org

Guardian Angels Regional School (PK-8)

Gibbstown

www.gars-online.com

(856) 423-9440

Principal: Sister Jerilyn Einstein, FMIJ

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Marcie Voight

garsadvancement@comcast.net

St. Mary School (PK-8)

Gloucester

www.smshope.org

(856) 456-0913

Principal: Mrs. Gail Corey

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Dawn Burkhardt

dawn34burk@yahoo.com

St. Rose of Lima School (K-8)

Haddon Heights

www.strosenj.com

(856) 546-6166

Principal: Mr. Steven Hogan

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Directors Kathy Dugan/Sheila Thomas

advancement@strosenj.com

Christ the King Regional School (PK-8)

Haddonfield

www.ckrs.org

(856) 429-2084

Principal: Mrs. Maureen DiBella

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Kathryn Croskey

kcroskey@ckrs.org

St. Joseph Regional School (PK-8)

Hammonton

www.stjosephprek8.org

(609) 704-2400

Principal: Sister Helen Sanchez, MPF

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Sister Helen Sanchez, MPF

StJHPrincipal@camdendiocese.org

St. Vincent de Paul Regional School (PK-8)

Mays Landing

www.svdprs.com

(609) 625-1565

Principal: Ms. Linda Pirolli

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Joe Manning

manning@svdprs.com

St. Peter School (PK-8)

Merchantville

www.stpeterschool.org

(856) 665-5879

Principal: Mrs. Maureen Lesniak

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Kathryn O’Callaghan

kocallaghan@stpeterschool.org

St. Mary Magdalen Regional School (PK-8)

Millville

www.smmrs.org

(856) 825-3600

Principal: Sister Rosa Maria Ojeda, MDPVM

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Principal: Sister Rosa Maria Ojeda

Notre Dame Regional School (PK-8)

Newfield

www.notredameregional.org

(856) 697-3456

Principal: Dr. Mary Alimenti

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Melissa Knapp

tobipd@comcast.net

Cape Trinity Catholic Regional School (PK-8)

North Wildwood

www.stannregional.org

(609) 522-2704

Principal: Sister Sheila Murphy, SSJ

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Julie Roche

capetrinitycatholic@gmail.com

St. Stephen Regional School (PK-8)

Pennsauken

www.ststephensPennsauken.com/school

(856) 662-5935

Principal: Mrs. Patricia Higgins

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Katy Fagan

katyfagan@comcast.net

St. Teresa Regional School (K-8)

Runnemede

www.stteresaschool.net

(856) 939-0333

Principal: Sister Patricia Scanlan, IHM

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Lisa Colangelo

lcolangelo@stteresaschool.org

St. Joseph Regional School (PK-8)

Somers Point

www.sjrs.org

(609) 927-2228

Principal: Sister Frances Kane, SSJ

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Sister Frances Kane, SSJ

StJRSPPrincipal@camdendiocese.org

John Paul II Regional School (PK-8)

Stratford

www.jp2rs.org

(856) 783-3088

Principal: Mrs. Helen Persing

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director@jp2rs.org

Holy Family Regional School (PK-8)

Ventnor

www.hfsvnj.org

(609) 822-2234

Principal: Sister Lydia Etter, OSF

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Principal: Sister Lydia Etter, OSF

Bishop Schad Regional School (K-8)

Vineland

www.shsigs.com

(856) 691-4490

Principal: Ms. Patrice DeMartino

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Amy Bencie

abencie@shsigs.com

Holy Trinity Regional School (PK-8)

Westville Grove

www.holytrinityregionalschool.org

(856) 848-6826

Principal: Mrs.Patricia Mancuso

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Dianna Montague

advdirector@holytrinityregionalschool.org

St. Mary School (PK-8)

Williamstown

www.smarys.org

(856) 629-6190

Principal: Ms. Judith McBride

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Jackie Kern

advancementoffice@smarys.org

St. Margaret Regional School (PK-8)

Woodbury Heights

www.stmargarets-rs.org

(856) 845-5200

Principal: Sister Michele DeGregorio, FMIJ

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Advancement Director Nicholas Danze

nicolo23@comcast.net

Catholic School Partnership

Established in 2008, the Catholic School Partnership’s mission is to serve the children of the Catholic elementary schools of Camden, New Jersey. The Partnership provides the direct support and the resources necessary to ensure an excellent academic program defined by faith-based values, rooted in respect, and compelled by justice. The Partnership is committed to sustaining safe, nurturing schools that inspire and prepare each student for rigorous, college-preparatory secondary schools.

Executive Director

Sister Karen Dietrich, SSJ

(856) 338-0966

kdietrich@catholicpartnershipschools.org

Holy Name School (K-8)

Camden

(856) 365-7930

Principal: Mrs. Patricia Quinter

Sacred Heart School (K-8)

Camden

www.sacredheartcamden.org

(856) 963-1341

Principal: Mrs. Janet Williams

St. Anthony of Padua School (K-8)

Camden

(856) 966-6791

Principal: Mrs. Anna Mae Muryasz

St. Joseph Pro-Cathedral School (K-8)

Camden

www.sjprocathedral.org

(856) 964-4336

Principal: Mrs. Frances Montgomery

St. Cecilia School (PK-8)

Pennsauken

www.stceciliapennsauken.org

(856) 662-0149

Principal: Sister Alicia Perna, SSJ

For more information or to schedule a tour at any of the partnership schools, contact: Coordinator of Community Engagement and School Based Development Lori Springer, (856)-338-0966 lspringer@catholicpartnershipschools.org

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Private Elementary School

San Miguel School (6-8)

Camden

www.fscbaltimore.org/sanmiguel

(856) 342-6707

Principal: Mr. James Hoban

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact: Mr. James Hoban

125 students from preschool and elementary school took to the high seas last week at Our Lady of Hope Parish in Blackwood, as Vacation Bible School was held from Monday-Friday. Themed “High Seas! Where We Experience The Mightly Love of God,” the students in the week-long program learned that God’s Word is true, comforting, surprising, life-changing, and for everyone. Highlights of the week included daily instruction of the Bible, Ship Rec Games, Clipper Ship Crafts, Sail Away Cinema with Chadder the Chipmunk, and Goodies from the Galley. Left, students learn dance moves and hand motions during the week.

Acting upon the nomination of school President Father Paul Galetto, the board confirmed Father Francis Horn as vice-president for financial affairs, and Father Augustine Esposito as vice-president for development and alumni relations.

“With the current growth of the school,” said Father Galetto, “it has become advisable to establish a greater degree of coordination and oversight in the areas of finance and development. We are fortunate to have two very qualified Augustinians with expertise and experience in these vital fields.”

Father Horn, who has been headmaster of the Prep for the past six years, will remain in that position, in addition to overseeing the finances of the school. Previously, he served as principal of Monsignor Bonner High School in Drexel Hill, Pa.; as Treasurer of the Augustinian Province of St. Thomas of Villanova, which operates the Prep; and as assistant professor of canon law at the Washington Theological Union. He served for many years on the finance, budget, and investment committees of the Province, and he has been the community treasurer for Augustinian College and St. Augustine Monastery.

Father Esposito joins the Prep community after having served for eight years as President of Monsignor Bonner/Archbishop Prendergast High Schools in Pennsylvania. During that period he was instrumental in increasing alumni involvement in the school and in leading major campaigns to support capital and tuition assistance needs.

Father Esposito served for 10 years on the pastoral and spiritual formation team at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia. He holds a doctorate in Spanish literature and has taught at Villanova University. Most recently, he was the director of mission effectiveness at Malvern Preparatory School in Pennsylvania.

Staff, family and friends of St. Mary School, Vineland, volunteered at a recent Challenger League Baseball game at the North Vineland Baseball fields. Each volunteer became a “buddy,” whose job entailed helping at bat, running to bases and playing the outfield. Left, Stephanie C. McKenzie Urgo takes a turn at bat. Middle photo, Sister Margaret Curcio talks with Nate Simmons. Right, Andrew O’Donnell, Zion Day and Nancy Nocito.

Lorraine Knecht, 71, of Gloucester Township, was at the school on June 10 to support the daughter of a family friend who was graduating. After experiencing what she thought was gastritis, she excused herself to go to the ladies room, where she then realized it was much more serious.

Feeling as if there was “an elephant” on her chest, Knecht knew she was having a heart attack, and, unable to move or call for help, she prayed.

That’s when sixth graders Madeleine McDonnell and Sarah Rossi entered the bathroom, saw what was happening, and got help. They found three parents at the school who were a doctor, policeman and paramedic.

After being told by hospital doctors how close she came to death, Knecht, now back home, realizes that the students were “the answer to my prayers.” “God sent them. It’s a miracle.”

During the school’s closing Mass on June 16, Knecht was on hand to present McDonnell and Rossi with special bracelets, in thanks for their life-saving actions.

“I’m ever so grateful,” Knecht said.

Nick succeeds Rev. Monsignor Andrew E. Martin, who retires June 26. Msgr. Martin will continue as president emeritus.

“It is with a spirit of deep gratitude that I commend Msgr. Martin for his lasting contributions to Camden Catholic,” said Bishop Galante. “At the same time, I am pleased to appoint Mr. Nick to this important position, confident that he will draw on his strong educational qualifications, more than two decades of senior executive and management experience, and a strong community-minded focus to continue Camden Catholic’s program of academic excellence and its success in forming students in the faith.”

As president, Nick will serve as the school’s chief executive officer, with oversight for the school’s personnel, budget, business affairs, and strategic planning, as well as educational and development programs. He will work closely with Dr. Thomas J. Kiely, principal, the diocesan Office of Catholic Schools, and Camden Catholic’s Board of Trustees to advance the school’s mission among students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, and the surrounding community.

“We look forward to collaborating with Mr. Nick to advance the mission of Camden Catholic High School, to ensure that it continues as a leader in Catholic secondary education, and to help our students reach their fullest potential,” said Father Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., chair of the Camden Catholic Board of Trustees.

“We are thrilled to be working with someone of Mr. Nick’s calibre and ethics,” said Mary P. Boyle, superintendent of schools for the Diocese of Camden.

For 10 years (1989-1999), Nick served in senior management positions at Lincoln National Corporation, including president and CEO of Lincoln National Investment Companies. Before that, he served in senior management positions at Xerox Financial Services, Chase Investment Bank, Crocker National Bank and Chemical Bank.

Most recently, Nick served as an advanced placement and honors physics teacher at The Pennington School, Pennington, New Jersey, an independent, coeducational school serving approximately 500 day and boarding students in grades 6 through 12.

He earned his B.S. in Astrophysics from Rutgers University (2005), an M.B.A. in Finance from the University of Chicago (1977), and an A.B. in English from Princeton University (1975). Before leaving to pursue teaching, he was a candidate for a Ph.D. in Astrophysics at Rutgers (2006-2008) and is a member of Phi Beta Kappa.

Nick has a long history of involvement with education, having served as a trustee of LaSalle University in Philadelphia, The American School in London, and Uxbridge College (Uxbridge, Middlesex, England).

He is an active parishioner at Our Lady of Good Counsel (Moorestown, N.J.), where he serves as an Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist and instructor in the parish’s religious education program. He also is a member of the Finance Committee of the Western Province of the Congregation of the Mission, commonly known as the Vincentians, a Catholic community of priests and brothers founded by Saint Vincent dePaul.

“The 22 years I spent in the business world have given me an appreciation for the role that management processes can play in providing a framework within which educational institutions can realize their full potential. We will strive always to exceed the expectations our students and parents hold for Camden Catholic High School,” said Nick. “I am grateful for the opportunity to work with the entire school community to ensure that everything we do is for the spiritual, academic and social benefit of students.”

The first graduates of Guradian Angels Regional School (Gibbstown and Paulsboro) pose for a photo. Below, Bishop Guilfoyle Regional School held its final graduation at Corpus Christi Church, Carneys Point, on June 8.

It’s June. For those of us in the church’s education ministry that means a round of graduations coming one on top of the other. Of all the ceremonies this year, however, two stood out particularly for me. Each, in its own way, marked a milestone for the school community.

The first took place on June 8 at Corpus Christi Church in Carneys Point. It was the 10th and final graduation for Bishop Guilfoyle Regional School which will close its doors on June 30.

The class theme for graduation was Milestones, and the graduation program’s cover showed a wicker basket filled with stones, each one bearing words of wisdom for the graduates.

The school was born in September of 2000 from a merger of St. Joseph (Swedesboro), St. James (Penns Grove) and St. Mary (Salem). These little communities became Bishop Guilfoyle Regional School and took up residence in the former St. James High School site on Georgetown Road.

Its lifetime was marked with highs and lows. The teachers were certified, dedicated and top-notch. The curriculum was augmented with a superior performing arts program that gained much local and national attention. The physical site was one that other schools would love to have. Where else can you find an elementary school with a football field and bleachers! But, as populations shifted and money grew short, numbers declined; and a school that began with such promise will now count on its graduates and former students to continue that promise elsewhere.

For the first time in a dozen years, the strains of Pomp and Circumstance echoed within the walls of St. John Church again when on June 16, the first graduation ceremony for Guardian Angels Regional School (Gibbstown and Paulsboro) was held.

Guardian Angels opened its doors in the fall of 2001. Now members of the school’s first kindergarten class will be the first to represent that school outside of their tiny community. This is also a school with certified, dedicated, and top-notch teachers. The curriculum there is enhanced with a fledgling performing arts program that did a super job with “Annie, Jr.” in May.

The school outgrew its primary site in Gibbstown (originally St. Michael School); and in 2007, it sent its students in grades four, five and six to the Paulsboro site (originally St. John School). This year’s graduation is a milestone in the rebirth of Catholic education in Gloucester County. Here is a school that rose from the ashes of two former communities that faced the same fate as Bishop Guilfoyle Regional School.

Will history someday repeat itself? One can only hope and pray that the opportunity given to the Catholic communities in Gibbstown and Paulsboro may some day come back to the Catholic community in Salem County. But, in the meantime, congratulations to the students at both Bishop Guilfoyle and Guardian Angels! You have done well. You are the future of our faith and the future of our church. You have been rooted in the faith and given wings to soar on high. Continue to make us proud of you.

Photos by Cynthia Soper and Peter G. Sánchez

Christ the King students work with children of the Kids Alley Learning Center, Camden, during a June 14 tutoring session. Pictured are, left, Brian Kelter of Christ the King with Abimael and, below right, Erin Parker with Lilliana.

CAMDEN — At Fairview Village Methodist Church here on every Monday afternoon since April, students of Christ the King Regional School, Haddonfield, have helped Vivian Tan in her mission to provide Camden students an environment “where they feel loved and accepted.”

The Kids Alley Learning Center in the Fairview section of Camden was established in 2004 to “illustrate God’s love for (them) and to empower them with a message of hope,” according to Tan. It is open for children during the school year, Mondays-Thursdays, from 3-5:30 p.m.

The program developed from a Saturday morning outreach program for Camden youth that began in 1998. It has expanded to include after school tutoring four days a week, a summer vacation Bible school and a Christian leadership program.

The after school program employs two full-time staff members and three part-time, and includes teaching-certified volunteers.

“Seventy percent of (the 43) Camden students in the program come from Spanish-speaking families, so their parents aren’t even able to help with homework,” explained Tan.

That’s where the 15-20 seventh graders from Christ the King step in, tutoring K-8 students in math, science, English and other subjects.

Once homework is completed, the Camden and Haddonfield students usually play board games such as Chutes N’ Ladders and Battleship, or go outside and play soccer or throw a football.

Kids Alley youth come from four area public schools: Sumner School, Cream School, Woodlynne School, and Yorkship School. When they arrive, they are led in prayer, offered a snack and tutored, on Mondays by Christ the King students, and on other days by different schools (Bishop Eustace Preparatory School in Pennsauken also aids Kids Alley students).

The after school tutoring program “feels good, it’s the right thing to do,” said Christ the King student Maureen O’Kane.

Kids Alley “gives us a chance to help the less fortunate,” added Griffin McCormick.

For Christ the King students, “it gives them the chance to see there’s another world outside their own,” said Dawn McCormick, mother of Griffin, and Christ the King’s coordinator for Kids Alley. She figures out how many students are going to volunteer each week and makes sure there are parents to provide transportation to and from Camden.

McCormick and her eight children became involved with Kids Alley when working with its Saturday morning program, making and passing out lunches to Camden youth.  Soon, her son Griffin’s seventh grade basketball team was doing the same, and then a call came from Christ the King’s religious education office, re-

questing help for the Kids Alley after school program.

The tutors “mean the world” to the Camden students, McCormick said.  “It boosts their confidence.”

Kids Alley students “see Christ the King students as superheroes,” said Tan. “They see them as someone they can talk with, play with.”

Tan proudly added that each Camden student in the Kids Alley program will be moving up a grade level in their respective schools in the fall. A few months ago, she noted, that didn’t seem like a possibility.

The Christ the King students plan on going back in the fall to the after school program, and McCormick said Christ the King also will help with Kids Alley summer programs.

Kids Alley rents space in the church, and Tan cannot accommodate all the students wanting to enter the program. There already is a waiting list for next year. Tan is hoping to move to larger space in the future.

Below right, Bishop McHugh School, Ocean View, has a tradition of graduating eighth graders walking down the hall and being congratulated by underclass students, faculty and staff. Pictured is a student getting a group hug.

Graduate Tara Puhalski bids goodbye to her prayer partner, Pre-Kindergarten student Kelsey McFadden at Assumption School, Galloway.

A liturgical dance was performed by Allison Carini, Victoria Cleveland and Aria Asselta following the prayer service.

“It was a beautiful prayer experience,” said Sister Margaret Curcio, principal , “something we plan to continue in the coming school years.”

A total of 1,299 of the graduates (97 percent) will attend college in the fall. More than 71 percent will attend a four-year college.

The schools boasted three National Merit Scholarship Finalists and one Semi-Finalist, as well as 22 National Merit Scholarship Commended Students. In addition, 69 students were recognized as N.J. State Edward J. Bloustein Distinguished Scholars.

A total of 1,109 graduates came from parish-run high schools: Gloucester Catholic (Gloucester), St. Joseph (Hammonton), Sacred Heart (Vineland), and Wildwood Catholic (Wildwood), and three diocesan-run schools: Camden Catholic (Cherry Hill), Paul VI (Haddon Township), and Holy Spirit (Absecon).

Also, 235 graduates were enrolled in two private Catholic schools: Bishop Eustace Preparatory School (Pennsuaken), and Our Lady of Mercy Academy (Newfield). Data from St. Augustine Preparatory School, a private Catholic high school in Richland, is not included in these figures.

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Correction

In last week’s Catholic Star Herald (June 11, 2010), a Wildwood Catholic graduate was incorrectly identified. Leading the graduates in turning their tussles, was Caroline Botto.

In photo, The Phillie Phanatic pays a visit to students of Holy Name School, Camden, on Tuesday, June 8.

CAMDEN — The green, furry mascot from the Galapagos Islands, with the bulging belly and long snout, descended the stairs in the Holy Name elementary school cafeteria, and all chaos broke loose. Excited screams filled the air, almost pushing the roof off its moorings.

The 200 students gathered in the cafeteria on Tuesday, June 8, were not expecting him. They believed that they would see a presentation by Len Epstein, a local illustrator who has drawn eight books on the green subject.

But when the Phillie Phanatic entered, it became another day entirely.

Kissing and hugging the students, and dancing “The Cuban Shuffle” with them, the Phanatic, along with Epstein, was focused on getting them excited for summer reading. To that end, every student received a copy of Epstein and the Phanatic’s latest collaboration, “The Phillie Phanatic’s Galapagos Islands Adventure,” where the mascot makes a trip back to his hometown.

The visit is part of the Philadelphia Phillies “Be a Phanatic About Reading” initiative that travels to different schools.

“Reading is a big thrust” currently in Holy Name, mentioned principal Patricia Quinter, who noted that the school recently opened a reading room, with 1,500 donated books. “We’re trying to get children to read over the summer.”

Epstein, who has been illustrating Phanatic books for 30 years, gave art lessons to students, showing them how to draw the furry creature.

“We gotta get books in front of (children),” he said. “It’s the most important pathway to the world.”