Vision
Our vision for The Academy of St. Therese is based on our commitment to living our faith through three core values: The Life of the Mind, Moral Choices, and Helping Our Neighbor.
The Life of the Mind
At the Academy of St. Therese we celebrate the fact that life is an ongoing quest for truth, wisdom, understanding and joy. We value The Life of the Mind. Starting in Kindergarten, students are introduced to focusing and discipline through the transforming art of violin. They have hands-on experiences at local farms to develop an appreciation for a healthy environment. As character actors, students bring historical personalities (like Marco Polo, Christopher Columbus and Emily Dickinson) “back to life” for their peers. Seventh and eighth graders study traditional logic and learn to use analytical and critical skills. Latin (classical and ecclesiastical) is presented age appropriately in Grades K-8. Classically, this prepares them to unlock the meaning of ninety percent of two syllable words in the English language and prepares them for college entrance exams. Ecclesiastically, students learn Latin hymns, prayers and the Latin format of Mass. These experiences allow students to develop a love for intellectual pursuits that will sustain them throughout their lifetime.
Moral Choices
Our children, ages four through thirteen, are expected to make age appropriate choices in how they treat others, demonstrate self-control and practice honesty. In Kindergarten and Lower Primary, these choices emphasize mutual respect and include sharing, taking turns and being kind. In Upper Primary, students begin to base their moral choices on what they are learning in the Baltimore Catechism, and learn what it means to put their faith into practice. In the Middle Grades, students take on more responsibility as role models for other children and are trained to develop leadership skills that emphasize the virtues of integrity and modesty. At every level, students create “Imitating Jesus,” a small prayer book that helps them understand how making moral choices can deepen their relationship with God. Within this context, students are well-prepared to receive the sacraments of Penance, Holy Communion and Confirmation.
Helping Our Neighbor
According to the parable of the Good Samaritan, everyone is our “neighbor.” Students are taught to look beyond themselves and their own needs to understand and feel compassion for the needs of others. While developing the virtue of empathy, students are also taught the importance of taking action to make their family, community-and ultimately, their world-better for all people. They develop an awareness that - even at their young ages - they have the ability to make a difference. During the season of Lent, students study the geography and history of Haiti, and learn about the suffering there. Through acts of sacrifice and prayer, children raise money and participate in the Food for the Poor program that feeds starving Haitian families. In the month of January students march in Washington, D.C., for the Right -to- Life and deliver letters to federal and state legislators. On Earth Day, they practice what they have learned about building a healthy, sustainable environment by cleaning up their community.