Technology
Raising our children in the digital age poses many new challenges to us as parents and educators. At the Bishop’s Academy at Most Holy Rosary, we are striving to be on the cutting edge of what is new and exciting in terms of hardware, software and technology integration in the classroom. Through effective grant writing we have been able to secure funds which provided our Smart boards in the classrooms and also the library media center materials.
Recently, Mr. Leary, a parent from Immaculate Conception School in Fayetteville heard about our need for a computer lab. He graciously donated 45 used PC’s and some monitors as well. He donated a day of his time installing and preparing them for student use. Currently, 10 are set up and ready. We are accepting donations of flat screen LCD monitors to continue this effort.
On Monday, September 9, 2009, we received confirmation that we have secured a large matching grant from IBM Matching Grant Foundation. We have already begun receiving our hardware/software and are very excited about it. This grant will provide for:
- Two Pre-K Young Explorer Computer Stations
- Six desk tops
- Seven printers
- Various pre loaded software
The faculty has all been undergoing staff development and training to learn how to use all of this technology most effectively with your children.
Special Education
As a former special education teacher and advocate for students with disabilities, I have been trying to bring special education services into our building since my appointment in September 2008. We have been working with the Syracuse City School District as well as the Diocese of Syracuse to ensure that this would happen. Up until now, students had to go to Bellevue Elementary School for services. In the Diocese of Syracuse, students with disabilities were referred to our sister school, The Bishop’s Academy at Holy Family because services are provided on site. We are thrilled to announce that we have hired Mrs. Congel to join our team as a Special Education Teacher. Mrs. Congel is currently employed part time by SCSD as a Special Education teacher. She will be joining us to provide services to our students in our school. In the future, we hope to add Speech and Language Pathology services as well. We are taking “big steps,” in the right direction for our students. Thank you to Mrs. Congel for walking with us!
Staff Development
We continue working on our literacy initiatives. We are working with the experts at OCM Boces again this year to ensure we are providing the best instruction to our readers. This month we are exploring “Visual Literacy,” Caldecott Books and more! Ask your readers all about it!
Catholic Identity
Our morning prayers are being led by the 6th grade and they are doing a terrific job! We continue to build a foundation in faith based education. We are learning The Guardian Angel Prayer and we are studying The Rosary this month. We are all looking forward to seeing our students participate in the Grandparent’s Mass on Friday.
Playground
Father Mannara has graciously offered to supervise afternoon play on the playground. Thanks Father Fred!
Thank you for entrusting the education of your children to us. They are a blessing and we are fortunate to have them. God bless you.
