Growing to Greatness

September 06, 2005

As I look back over this school year, I am reminded of the words of Epictetus that hang above my desk: “No great thing is created suddenly.” After five years of rapid growth and expansion our patience was certainly put to the test this spring as we waited for the approvals to begin construction of our new Athletic and Convocation Center.

While our patience was tested in the area of construction, our faculty, staff, students, and trustees continued the wonderful work that has enabled Princeton Academy of the Sacred Heart to grow and thrive. Everything that we do as a community is dedicated to the mission of Princeton Academy of the Sacred Heart, which is to develop young men with active and creative minds, a sense of understanding and compassion for others, and the courage to act on their beliefs.

Our teachers participate in professional development programs bringing new information, skills, and ideas into our classrooms. Our students finished the school year with energy and enthusiasm both in and out of the classroom. The maintenance staff improved the grounds and facilities we use to deliver our program. The trustees successfully began the transition process of saying good-bye to founding members and welcoming new members in leadership roles. They continue to plan for the future growth of Princeton Academy.

And grow it does! Last spring we added a Celebration of the Arts evening to our calendar that was wonderfully attended, and which showcased visual, performing, and literary accomplishments of our students. In its first full year the Princeton Academy Choir grew to over twenty students and in its first public performance sang the national anthem at a Trenton Thunder game this May. Baseball was added as an interscholastic sport in the Middle School this spring. The growth of our middle school almost doubled the size of the middle school faculty. Kathleen Humora has been appointed as the first-ever head of middle school, a position she has embraced with enthusiasm and professionalism.

Most importantly, a visit last fall from representatives of the Network of Sacred Heart Schools resulted in a unanimous vote by the members of its board to accept Princeton Academy of the Sacred Heart into the Network as a provisional member. We look forward to continuing the process towards attaining full membership over the next few years.

As construction continues on the Athletic and Convocation Center we look forward to the expansion of our facilities and the growth of our programs. We have accomplished much and with your continued support, we look forward to accomplishing even more.

Olen Kalkus, Headmaster