The Norwood-Fontbonne Academy community came together on Wednesday, May 29 for the 2024 NFA Recognition Assembly, which took place in the Fontbonne Commons. This assembly gave faculty and staff the opportunity to recognize students in 4th - 8th grade.
"As Norwood-Fontbonne Academy community members, we all contribute to academics and co-curricular activities," said Shannon Craige, Director of Curriculum & Innovation. "The student experience is one that allows for all students to truly live out the NFA vision. Our recognition assembly is an important community event, as students, staff, and parents come together to acknowledge students who have distinguished themselves. This morning, we come together as One Body, One Spirit, with One voice of praise for all NFA students. This is a celebration of YOU because of all that you do each day to enjoy learning, to treasure yourselves, others, and the Earth, to live Gospel values, and to make reflective choices as self directed people."
"To begin our assembly, we will open with the first tenet of the vision statement, 'enjoys learning,'" said Ms. Craige. "We love watching the joy that our students experience at school. The passion each and every one of you brings to your work each day, and the relationships you create through shared learning experiences transforms the rooms and hallways into woven tapestries of student voice."
"The Academic Achievement Award recognizes students who earn a 93 or above in all their major subject areas and an S in all enrichment classes," said Kathryn Henry, Principal. "We’d like to take the time to recognize the students in grades 4-8 who earned this impressive achievement in the first and/or second trimesters. Please stand when your name is called and we will applaud the full group."
- 4th Grade: Nicholas C., Erin C., David B., Miko D., and Pearl M.
- 5th Grade: Beckett C., Nathan L., and Enzo M.
- 6th Grade: Vanessa A., Paige C., Sean C., Max C., Charlie E., Johanna G., Owen G., MJ K., Lizzie K., Claire K., Sean L., Soren M., Jenni M., Olivia N., Maggie P., Marin T., Natalia U.
- 7th Grade: Emma A., Natalie A., Malley B., Vivienne C., John D., Alexandra E., Peyton F., Santiago F., Jaylen H., Shelby S., Annabel T., Alexa R.,
- 8th Grade: Helen A., Noelle B., Rhys B., Thomas B., Levi B., Gabe C., Henry C., Jay C., Ava C., Pete E., Shea F., Jill G., Conrad G., Maddie K., Jackson K., Madison J., Neely L., Tristan L., Robert L., Diana M., Nina M., Ethan N., Alexis S., James S., Samantha T., Catalina U.
"Over the last two months in math class, the eighth grade students participated in the "PA Stock Market Game," a valued online simulation that instructs students in the stock market with cross-curriculum tools for math, business, and research instruction," said Joe Rosowski, Middle School Math Teacher. "Students are teamed up and given $100,000 dollars to invest in the stock market and build portfolios to compete against other students and schools in the region. We want to congratulate some students on their outstanding performance in the competition. Five members of the Class of 2024 were honored at the The Stock Market Game Eastern Region Awards Ceremony earlier this month Cabrini University."
- Thomas B. '24 and Jack K. '24 finished second in the region!
- Ryan S. '24, Ethan N. '24, and James S. '24 finished first in the region and third in the state!
"NFA Mathletes provides an opportunity for students in grades 5 to 8 to display their math skills in a competition setting," noted Fifth Grade Teacher Nick D'Orazio. Students are actively engaged in solving complex math problems with each other. They get to build positive relationships together through collaboration and teamwork while still getting to showcase a passion for learning. Thank you Mathletes for trying something new, challenging yourself, and enjoying learning. When your name is called, please come forward to receive your certificate."
Congratulations to the following students:
- Alexandra E.
- Jake D.
- Malley B.
- Shelby S.
- Maggie P.
- Quinn D.
- Natalia U.
"Earlier this year, 8th Grade students had the opportunity to exercise the use of their active voices through the American Freedom Essay Contest," said ELA Middle School Teacher Steve Wood. "This is a national contest, which challenges educators to have their students write a 100-300 word essay on the importance of freedom in their lives. Entries are judged and the winner in each category earns a free field trip for their entire class with The Constitutional Walking Tour. This year, there were many wonderful submissions from our 8th Grade students, along with thousands from schools across the nation. We are proud to celebrate that the essay entitled “Unshackling Faith” written by Caroline Bender, was selected as the middle school winner of the 2023 American Freedom Essay Contest."
"Our 8th religion students were invited to participate in the Knights of Columbus Essay Contest centered around the question, 'How Can the Church Evangelize in the Digital Age?'" said Middle School Teacher Judy Riviezzo. "NFA had numerous quality submissions which resulted in the following students receiving recognition from the Knights of Columbus Organization as final contestants. We are so proud of all of these students."
- Jay C.
- Diana M.
- Thomas B.
- Maddie K.
- Neely L.
- Catalina U.
- Helen A.
- Rhys B.
- Caroline B.
- James S.
- Samantha T.
- Peter E.
- Ava C.
- Ethan N.
Two of our students received top honors. The recipient of the Philadelphia Regional 1st District Award was Madelyn K. and the PA State Regional District 8th Grade Winner was James S. Both of these students shared an excerpt from their individual essays.
Music Teacher Janet Kershner noted that "Playing an instrument can have many benefits for children," including:
- Building confidence
- Coordination
- Memory
- Social Skills
- Creativity
- Fine Motor Skills
- Listening Skills
"Learning to play an instrument can also stimulate brain cells, which can improve abstract reasoning skills, which are essential for math and science," added Kershner. "Music can bring balance and harmony in one’s life. Plus, music makes everyone happy even if you’re just listening to it."
"This year’s piano program was an exciting one," continued Kershner. "The program had a total of 26 students. The piano program had five 1st graders, three 2nd graders, nine 3rd graders, four 4th graders, two 5th graders, one 6th grader, one 7th grader and one 8th grader. The program had beginners to advanced players. I am very proud of the accomplishments of my piano students. I love watching them grow throughout the year with their music/piano skills. We culminated our year with a wonderful recital on May 16."
PIANO
- Shea J.
- Lennox A.
- Jackson G.
- Edison O.
- Eleanor F.
- Zuri S.
- Maisie O.
- Emilia O.
- Quinn J.
- Taylor C.
- Aly K.
- Samantha P.
- Brooke R.
- Arden D.
- Daphne T.
- Margo F.
- Josefina P.
- Annika A.
- Callum S.
- Alice E.
- Erin C.
- Evan T.
- Julius P.
- Quinn D.
- Annabel T.
- Robert L.
"Many of our students extend their musical abilities by participating in the band program," said Mrs. Henry. "They attend practices at NFA, and also have to give time to practicing at home. Our students perform solos and also as a group. We are so proud of the dedication these students have to music. They shared their talents at the recital on May 22, and we want to recognize them as a school community today."
BAND
- Samuel E.
- Daphne T.
- Margaret F.
- Burke K.
- Corinne T.
- Aly K.
- Noah L.
- Miko D.
- Alice Kelly
- Imani Barimond
- Miles Toconita
- Kyndal M.
- Liam M.
- Camlen C.
- Megan S.
- Nathan L.
- Brady K.
- Kiara P.
- Kymora J.
- Soren M.
"And we’d like to highlight our 8th Graders who have played in the band for many years!" added Mrs. Henry. "8th Graders, when your name is called, please come up to receive your certificate."
- Jonah C. - tenor saxophone since 4th Grade
- Jay C. - trumpet since 4th Grade
- Robert L. - trumpet since 4th Grade
- Diana M. - alto saxophone since 4th grade
"This Leadership in the Arts award is presented to one student in each grade who shows initiative and leadership in the visual arts-- both inside and outside of the classroom," said Art Teacher Miranda Clark-Binder. "These students show their passion for art by working diligently in class and also participating in arts extracurriculars (like art club and pottery club), submitting to schoolwide contests (like the arts t-shirt contest), and joining arts committees (like that for the yearbook cover.) These artists exemplify the creative spirit and are not afraid to take initiative in the arts."
The awardees are:
- 4th Grade: Imani B.
- 5th Grade: Mila S.
- 6th Grade: Gwendolyn B.
- 7th Grade: Annabel T.
- 8th Grade: Petey Q.
"We are always so proud of how NFA students answer the call to treasure themselves, others, and the Earth," said Ms. Craige. "Students, this is your time to step into the NFA shared story. With each step, embrace who you are within our school’s story, listen to what is stirring in your heart, listen to what is stirring in the hearts of those around you. The graces that come will guide your efforts to ensure all are treated with care and dignity."
"This award honors a student in each homeroom in grades four through eight who truly represents the spirit of understanding, kindness and compassion," noted School Counselor Kendall Ireland. "Each of these students shows confidence in their own identity and takes the necessary steps in order to care for their physical, mental and emotional well-being. They also are attuned to others needs, treating individuals with care and dignity, embracing their differences, and using what they know to be an advocate for all. Congratulations to the following students. When your name is called, please come forward to receive your certificate."
- 4A: Erin C.
- 4B: Kyndal M.
- 5A: Brady K.
- 5B: Sienna S.
- 6A: Quinn D.
- 6B: Alena D.
- 7A: Emma A.
- 7B: Natalie A.
- 8A: Thomas B.
- 8B: Lexi S.
- 8C: Noelle B.
"The First Penguin Award is an honor given to celebrate innovative risk-taking and daring ideas, inspired by the metaphorical first penguin to dive into unknown waters," said Ms. Craige. "The first penguin bravely dives into the icy waters, not knowing if there is an orca lurking nearby, ready to strike. It takes a leap of faith and a willingness to face the unknown, knowing that their survival depends on their ability to take risks and explore new territories. The first penguin may be the most vulnerable, but they are also the one who leads the way and paves the path for others to follow. They embody courage, determination, and a spirit of adventure that inspires their fellow penguins to overcome their fears and dive into the unknown with them.
"This award recognizes individuals who embrace failure as a necessary step towards groundbreaking discoveries, fostering a culture of fearless exploration within the NFA community. This award serves as a symbol of excellence and a testament to the hard work and dedication of the recipients."
- 4th: Alice K. and Kyndal M.
- 5th: Brady K. and Sofia H.
- 6th: Soren M. and Max C.
- 7th: Alex D. and Vivienne C.
- 8th Petey Q. and Robert L.
"NFA students are called to foster belonging and unity each day," said Mrs. Henry. "This is the core of the SSJ mission.It is exciting to see the excitement and enthusiasm you bring to service and outreach projects. Your understanding of empathy, compassion, and respect is how we can continue to amplify the voices of the voiceless and walk side by side with the dear neighbor, truly living Gospel values."
"This award honors one student from each homeroom in 4th through 8th grades, who demonstrated the willingness and readiness to help and serve others," said Patrick McKenzie, Director of Mission & Ministry. "These students exemplify honor, integrity, and inclusiveness. Their actions toward others are “of the heart” in the legacy of the Sisters of Saint Joseph toward their neighbors. Each day, they “live and work so that all are united with God and with one another.” They are recognized as Christlike in his or her interactions with others."
Congratulations to the following students:
- 4A: Maricel B.
- 4B: Annette C.
- 5A: Kiara P.
- 5B: Jade M.
- 6A: Quinn D.
- 6B: Joey G.
- 7A: Giavanna P.
- 7B: Jaylen H.
- 8A: Robert L.
- 8B: Samantha T.
- 8C: Ava C.
"There are many ways to participate in Mass as we have seen here at NFA - readers, choir, participants in processions, bringing up the gifts, and even as an active member of the congregation," noted Mr. McKenzie. "Today I want to recognize three students who have been participants in another special role - as altar servers at Mass. An altar server is more than just a person who assists the celebrant during Mass, but also someone who is committed to serving the Church in any way possible. I’d like to take this opportunity to invite you all to consider serving next year! I will offer an altar server training the afternoon before our school Masses in the Fall. Please reach out if you are interested!"
- Jill G.
- Gwen B.
- Bobby K.
"Community Service Corps is an afterschool program that allows students to gather around a shared passion for service and care of the dear neighbor," said Mr. McKenzie. "We were able to come together multiple times over the course of the school year, working together to grow in ability to demonstrate compassion, respect, and empathy in our care for others. Thank you to all participants who gave of their time to be a part of this program. When your name is called, please stand to be recognized."
8th Grade
- Noelle B.
- Rhys B.
- Caroline B.
- Levi B.
- Donovan C.
- Jay C.
- Ava C.
- Jonah C.
- Kian E.
- Pete E.
- Jill G.
- Conrad G.
- Lliam G.
- Ella H.
- Maddie K.
- Jack K.
- Neely L.
- Robert L.
- Diana M.
- Lucy M.
- Nina M.
- Billy M.
- Ethan N.
- Lexi S.
- Ryan S.
- Emma S.
- Samantha T.
- Catalina U.
7th Grade
- Emma A.
- Natalie A.
- Grant B.
- Malley B.
- James B.
- Jabril C.
- Jake D.
- Alexandra E.
- Payton F.
- Santiago F.
- Naomi G.
- Kymora J.
- Joshua M.
- Logan M.
- Cece R.
- Fiona S.
- Andie S.
- Annabel T.
6th Grade
- Liam A.
- Declan B.
- Colin B.
- Gwen B.
- Boden C.
- Sean C.
- Max Cr.
- Luca D.
- Alean D.
- Charlie E.
- Owen G.
- Lizzie K.
- Claire K.
- Soren Ma.
- Nolan M.
- Jennie M.
- Olivia N.
- Sam S.
- Marin T.
- Natalia U.
5th Grade
- Elise F.
- Sam F.
- Bobby K.
- Nathan L.
- Liam M.
- Dominic P.
- Megan S.
- Tyler S.
- Jake S.
- James S.
- Sienna S.
- Evan T.
- Lillian V.
4th Grade
- Annika A.
- David B.
- Annette C.
- Nicholas C.
- Erin C.
- Alice E.
- Alex G.
- Lorzeno J.
- Pearl M.
- Callum S.
- Miles T.
"To conclude, we will recognize those students who show leadership and growth in independence as reflective thinkers who are self directed," said Mrs. Henry. "Students, when you face challenges, remember to keep an open heart and an open mind. Lean into the adults around you and know that the feedback they offer is to support your growth. Take time each day to reflect, to recognize where you saw the face of God. Keep striving to lead our community and your world forward from the heart of the mission."
"Involvement in student council is a privilege, honor and an act of service," said Student Council Advisor Rita Sheridan. "Throughout the year, these students have been involved in planning and helping out with the following fun activities: Pretzel Days, Candy Grams, NFA’s Got Talent, the Easter Egg Hunt and the upcoming Blue and Gold Day. Thank you to the following students. When your name is called, please stand."
4A |
Alice K. |
4B |
Annette C. |
5A |
Liam M. |
5B |
Megan S. |
6A |
Ryan M. |
6B |
Natalia U. |
7A |
Alexandra E. |
7B |
Jake D. |
8th grade liaison |
Helen A. |
8th grade liaison |
Ethan N. |
8th grade liaison |
Levi B., Madison J. |
President |
Tristan L. |
Vice President |
Shea F. |
Treasurer |
Robert L. |
Secretary |
Maddie K. |
Public Relations |
Catalina U. |
"Within Admissions, we focus on providing the best and most accurate representation of our school and ensure prospective families feel welcomed on our campus," said Erin Wallin, Director of Admissions. "While we manage many moving pieces, sharing thoughts and experiences of current students is an essential piece.
"Student ambassadors are a valuable asset.They are chosen to represent our school to prospective families throughout the admission process. Ambassadors help in a variety of ways - such as campus tours, Q&A with parents, welcoming presence at admission events or orientations, and peer to peer interaction on shadow days.
"With the leadership of our student ambassadors, they build trust (layer of authenticity from first hand experience), foster relationships (feel more connected to our school and sense of belonging), provide a positive attitude (friendly and approachable personality), and represent NFA by living the vision statement.
"Throughout my work, countless families share feedback about how impressed they are with our students and appreciate the opportunity to connect with them. Personally, I am grateful for our student ambassadors - for their time and energy - as they make a difference each and every time they connect with a family here at NFA.
"I’d like to thank this year’s ambassadors across grades 4-6. Please stand when your name is called."
- Nicholas C.
- Callum S.
- Kiara P.
- Enzo M.
- Autumn W.
- Evan T.
- Sean C.
- Natalia U.
- Gwen B.
- Alessandro S.
- Kymora J.
- Grant B.
- Malley B.
- Shelby S.
"Now as I name this year’s 8th Grade lead student ambassadors, please come forward to receive your recognition," added Ms. Wallin.
- Noelle B.
- Levi B.
- Ava C.
- Shea F.
- Ella H.
- Tristan L.
- Billy M.
- Catalina U.
"The Online Integrity Award is an honor given to individuals that have demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment to upholding the values of a Digital Citizen," said Ms. Craige. "This award celebrates the efforts made towards ensuring the integrity of online information and the responsible use of digital media. The award acknowledges the importance of maintaining trust, credibility, and transparency in the digital world and recognizes those who have made significant contributions towards achieving this goal. Congratulations to the following students. Please come forward to receive your certificate of recognition."
- 4th grade: Callum S.
- 5th grade: Kingston T.
- 6th grade: Joey G.
- 7th grade: Malley B.
- 8th grade: Jay C.
"The NFA Vision Award is presented to a student in each homeroom who strives to be a positive leader by following the NFA Vision Statement and by actively engaging in morning meetings," said Fourth Grade Teacher Marianne Canuso. "This student continuously builds respectful connections. reflecting, sharing, and enjoying their time with their learning community. This student is recognized as a model of actively living the vision statement throughout each day. Congratulations to the following students. Please step forward to receive your certificate of recognition."
- 4A: Erin C.
- 4B: Lorenzo J.
- 5A: Camlen C.
- 5B: Maxine C.
- 6A: Alessandro S.
- 6B: Nora G.
- 7A: Logan M.
- 7B: Shelby S.
- 8A: James S.
- 8B: Lliam G.
- 8C: Shea F.