AHN Pre-K Open House: Foundation of Faith and Learning

On November 14, the Academy of the Holy Names welcomed prospective Pre-K families to experience our dynamic learning community. The Pre-K Open House showcased AHN's commitment to nurturing each child's academic, social-emotional, and spiritual growth and offered families a look into the unique educational environment that defines the Academy.

The program began in the Chapel as President Kevin P. Whitney opened in prayer and set the stage for the day’s exploration of AHN’s mission and values. Sister Lisa Perkowski, IHM, shared the foundations of faith formation for AHN’s youngest students. From weekly prayer services and grade-level retreats to community service and All-School Mass, the Academy’s dedication to faith ensures that students grow spiritually from the start.

Lower School Principal Bridgid Fishman emphasized our goal to develop responsibly independent students who embrace autonomy, competence, and community. Drawing on the Catholic foundation and charism of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, she highlighted AHN’s core values of hospitality and dedication to each child’s unique spiritual and academic journey.

Key highlights from the Open House included:

• Faith Community of Exceptional Love: AHN is more than a school—it’s a family. Whether through dedicated teachers, welcoming staff, or familiar faces like Officer Cheryl, AHN is committed to creating an atmosphere of exceptional love.
• Responsive Classroom: AHN’s Responsive Classroom approach emphasizes positive communication, community-building, and social-emotional growth through activities like morning circles.
• Highest Academic Potential: AHN encourages students to go beyond memorization, diving into deep learning, executive functioning, and emotional regulation skills.
• Engaged in Critical Thinking: AHN values curiosity and critical thinking, encouraging students to ask questions, consider multiple perspectives, and find connections across subjects through cross-curricular learning.
• Inspired by Creativity: From the beautiful Bailey Family Center for the Arts to hands-on, creative opportunities in STEM, Spanish, and beyond, AHN fosters creativity in every discipline.
• Lead Culturally Aware, Spiritually Rich Lives: With an emphasis on making a positive impact, AHN instills a sense of responsibility in students, encouraging them to serve and grow as compassionate leaders.

Families then went on campus tours, exploring key areas that shape the AHN experience. Stops included Student Services, Student Life, Curriculum, Fine Arts, Athletics, Middle School, and a special introduction to our Pre-K philosophy. Prospective families also had the chance to hear from our confident and eloquent 4th graders, who shared their favorite things about the Academy.

If you missed this Open House, we invite you to join us for our next Pre-K Open House on January 14, 2025, from 9:00 to 8:30 am. Register here.

For more information, key dates, and application details, visit our How to Apply page or reach out to Director of Lower School Admissions Casey Kiser. Be sure to follow us on social media @holynamestpa for more insights into student life at AHN!

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