THOUGHTS FROM OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL, JOSEPH VORBACH:
This week started with a special moment for our school. Katie Finnegan, a junior who receives expanded services, was named a Seton Scholar at the National Catholic Educational Association's annual award gala. Katie's recognition was associated with Porto Charities' recognition as a Seton Award honoree. Since Bishop O'Connell began offering expanded services almost four years ago, Porto Charities has been a stalwart supporter of our efforts. When they were so deservingly recognized at this national award gala, the Diocese of Arlington was present in strong numbers to salute them. We were honored to be part of the contingent that included all five Diocesan schools with programs supporting students with intellectual disabilities.
We were so happy to see Katie on stage with Bishop Burbidge and the other awardees. She has enriched our school community in immeasurable ways over the past several years and her moment at the gala recalled to my mind all the amazing things that have happened in our school the past three years that made it possible. Of course, the support of Porto Charities and other charitable groups has been vital. The way in which Paul VI and Saint John Paul the Great High Schools were so generous sharing their knowledge and experience was also very important to us. Our teachers and our students have embraced the opportunities made possible by offering expanded services and they continue to make this student experience better every day. Finally, we thank God for Katie and the other students receiving expanded services. Their presence in our school has strengthened our community by increasing everyone's appreciation for the different ways people learn.
Read more on the NCEA Awards Night in the Arlington Catholic Herald.