December 18, 2020 Community Voices: A Message from our Dean of Students
Dear Ursuline Families,
Schools represent more than simply a place students attend educational classes, and Ursuline has always been keenly aware of this important notion. But in the midst of a global pandemic, schools have had to pivot in unimaginable ways. The interruption of typical school routines coupled with these uncertain times can affect a student's sense of stability during this important stage of her adolescence. We are committed to helping your daughter remain connected to her school community, and to partner with her to make this school year a meaningful one.
Throughout the school day we see and hear evidence of your daughters' joy in many ways, and it is a wonderful reminder of their ability to remain resilient in the face of adversity. We continue to help your daughters process the differences of this year, while focusing on ways to reimagine some of our more beloved Ursuline traditions. While not minimizing all that has changed this year, it is helpful to remind your daughters they are pioneers and encourage them to be innovative and creative in their approach to connecting with friends and classmates. We have seen firsthand how clever and imaginative Ursuline students can be, and I continue to be impressed with the many ideas they share on a daily basis.
We will continue to strive to provide the stability and support your daughters require to cope with these changing times and to remain invested in the things that bring her happiness. As your family prepares for Christmas and the new year, we wish you a safe and restful holiday break.
Warmly, Kellynd Graham, P'25 Dean of Students Grades 10, 11, 12
TONIGHT! Ursuline Drama Zoom Production The cast of Ursuline Drama's fall Zoom play "The Radio Play Disaster" -- a behind-the-scenes view of the mayhem that happens when radio goes hilariously off the rails -- is hard at work getting ready for tonight's performance at 7 p.m! The performance is directed by Claire Dirks '21. Reservations are required to get your Zoom webinar link, and registration closes at 6 p.m. tonight -- so don't delay!
Click here to register by 6 p.m. tonight.
While tonight's performance is FREE, please consider supporting Ursuline's Fine Arts Program with a donation HERE, which helps to fund our drama productions (even in these remote settings). Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Thank you! Ursuline's first virtual gala last Saturday evening was a huge success! The proceeds will support Ursuline's educational experience and allow us to provide financial assistance through scholarships to deserving young women. This year, sponsorships, donations, and auction item purchases helped to raise more than $130,000.
If you missed the show, click here to see it: Ursuline's Got Talent. All contestant videos are also available to watch in their entirety on the Ursuline YouTube channel.
Financial Aid Applications Due January 15 Financial Aid applications for the 2021-2022 academic year can be completed through FACTS. The deadline for financial aid consideration is January 15, 2021. Financial Aid decisions will be emailed beginning March 6, 2020. Additional information can be found by visiting our website: Ursuline Academy Financial Aid. Questions about the financial aid process should be directed to Mr. Ed Spadoni, Chief Financial & Operating Officer at espadoni@ursulineacademy.net.
School and College Counseling Upcoming Workshops with Samaritans, Inc. The Ursuline Office of School Counseling will be collaborating with Samaritans, Inc. of Boston to host a number of workshops for all students during their guidance classes. This means that each student will attend an age-appropriate workshop in early January on mental health and suicide prevention, allowing students to learn both information and skills in a clear way. Please read the attached letter for details of the program, including the ability to opt out if desired. Parents will be offered a similar presentation hosted by the Samaritans on Thursday, January 7, at 6:30 p.m. and we ask that at least one parent /guardian from every family attend. (We also extend this invitation to any adult you feel would like to come.) Click here for the Zoom invitation.
Scholarship Opportunities 2020 Overcoming Obstacles Scholarship: College scholarship opportunity for current high school seniors. Deadline: December 31, 2020. JFK Library Profiles in Courage essay contest: Opportunity to win $10,000 towards college. Open to high school students grades 9-12. Deadline: January 15, 2021. Junior Parent College Meeting, January 13th at 7 p.m. The UA School and College Counseling team will be holding its annual Junior Parent College Meeting via Zoom on Wednesday, January 13 at 7 p.m. On this night, parents will get an overview of the UA College Counseling practices and the application process. We ask that one parent/guardian for each junior attend this important meeting. Click here for the Zoom invitation.
College Acceptances Beginning to Arrive Our office of school and college counseling has released a list of acceptances for early action and early decision college applications. Congrats to all seniors who have received decisions thus far. See the list here. Parent Speaker Series Recordings Available on Student/Parent Portal This past week, parents had an opportunity to join a "Conversation Corner" with Dr. Nadja Reilly. Dr. Reilly shared her thoughts on "Responding to High Affect - How to Keep your Cool" and provided strategies to best support our daughters and students. To find this and other videos, log in to your account on the UA parent portal, scroll down to the bottom of the home screen to "School Links and Files." The School Folder includes general documents/videos for parents. When you change the School Folder to "Guidance," you will find the recorded Parent Speaker videos coordinated by the School Counseling Office. See details here. AP Course Selection Process
Life on Lowder Street Gift Card Drive to Support Families in Need In lieu of Clothe-a-Child this year, Ursuline Academy is joining St. Mary's of the Assumption in Brookline for their "Gift of Love" drive to purchase gift cards to support Boston's Healthcare for the Homeless and Crossroads Family Shelter in East Boston. For those who would still like to donate, $25 gift cards have been requested from Target, Amazon, Walgreens, CVS, Game Stop, and TJ Maxx. Cards will be accepted until 2 p.m. on Sunday, December 20, in the mail slot at 112 Lowder Street, the administrative building across from the first entrance to the student parking lot. Contact Mrs. Jessica Morrison with any questions at jmorrison@ursulineacademy.net. Winter Sports Update
Mr. O'Connor and Ms. Munsey wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a safe and healthy New Year. Life on Lowder Street Blog Post PLEASE NOTE: The Paws4Pets Club food and toy collection for animal shelters has been "PAWSED" until we are back in January!
Reminders Ursuline's On-Campus Store Looking for stocking stuffers or last-minute gifts? Click here to see what's available from the Ursuline On-Campus Store. We have NEW masks (2 sizes), along with hats, scarves, scrunchies, and keychains - even a leash for your student's best friend. We also have Vineyard Vines totes and ties, and a large UA tote bag. Contact Kate Gormley, bookstore manager, at uabookstore@ursulineacademy.net for prices, purchase, and pickup. Flu Vaccinations Required Per the state of Massachusetts, all students need to receive the seasonal influenza (flu) vaccine by December 31, 2020. The new vaccine requirement is an important step to reduce flu-related illness and the overall impact of respiratory illness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please send proof of vaccination to the school nurse when your daughter receives the vaccine.
Merry Christmas! Student Council Christmas Challenge Quick Links |