By Jen Hanley
Assumption Catholic School begins Year 71
Assumption Catholic School celebrated the start of a new school year with its annual Back to School BBQ on August 24, bringing students, families, faculty and alumni together for an evening of community and celebration.
The gathering came as Assumption marked an important milestone: 70 years of providing Catholic education to students and families. As Year 71 begins, the school is embracing new beginnings, including welcoming a new principal, Donna Loehfelm, and unveiling a newly painted school front.
Students and families enjoyed reconnecting before the first day of school, while new families had an opportunity to meet classmates and teachers. Alumni also returned to visit former teachers and wish students well for the new year. With 70 years of history behind it and exciting new beginnings ahead, Assumption continues to build a strong future rooted in faith, community and Catholic education.
New chapter in science at St. Gregory the Great
St. Gregory the Great School in Danbury is launching a new science curriculum for fourth- and fifth-grade students, bringing hands-on exploration and discovery into the school’s state of the art science laboratory.
Students will use the Smithsonian Science for the Classroom curriculum, aligned with Next Generation Science Standards, to explore physical, earth, and life sciences, as well as engineering. Through real-world problems and engaging storylines, students will strengthen curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Leading the program is Victoria Kosilla, a St. Gregory the Great parent who holds a PhD in Chemistry from Columbia University. She previously taught AP Chemistry, Physics, and Science Research at Sacred Heart Greenwich, where she chaired the Upper School Science Department. The new program reflects St. Gregory’s commitment to rigorous, hands-on learning and prepares students for future success in science and beyond.
The Catholic Academy of Stamford celebrates new parking lot
The Catholic Academy of Stamford is celebrating another exciting milestone as the school and St. Cecilia Parish community come together on September 20 to celebrate the completion of the newly paved parking lot.
The project marks another important step in the continued growth of the campus. Last year, the school celebrated the completion of its new Education Wing, which added four state-of-the-art classrooms and expanded learning opportunities for students. Now, the newly paved parking lot provides an improved and welcoming space for students, families, faculty, staff and parishioners.
The September 20 celebration will bring the CAS and St. Cecilia community together to give thanks and celebrate the continued investment in the school and its future. With each improvement, The Catholic Academy of Stamford continues to build on strong foundations, creating an exceptional environment where students can learn, grow, and thrive.
Sacred Heart Greenwich students go to Lourdes
Six Upper School students from Sacred Heart Greenwich recently returned from a transformative pilgrimage to Lourdes, France, where they spent a week immersed in faith, service, and community.
After visiting the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, praying at the Grotto where Our Lady appeared to St. Bernadette, and joining thousands of pilgrims in the Torchlight Marian Procession, students served Assisted Pilgrims through everyday acts of kindness and compassion.
Throughout the week, students accompanied pilgrims during meals, assisted with daily routines, attended Masses and processions, walked the Stations of the Cross, participated in the Geste de l’Eau, and witnessed the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. They also formed meaningful friendships with Assisted Pilgrims whose stories, resilience, and faith left a lasting impression.
Through service, conversation, and prayer, students experienced what it means to find Christ in others and serve with compassion. They returned home with lasting memories, friendships, and a renewed commitment to joyful service.
St. Joseph High School launches EMT course
St. Joseph High School is taking hands-on learning to a new level with the launch of its first Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course. This year, 20 seniors are enrolled in the full-year Honors course, taught by Matthew Hlavna, an EMS program coordinator, paramedic and educator with the Echo Hose Training Center.
Students will develop skills needed to respond to medical emergencies, including patient assessment, emergency care, medical terminology and other essential areas of emergency response. They will also learn how to remain calm and respond effectively in high-pressure situations.
For students interested in healthcare, emergency medicine, public safety, or service-oriented careers, the course provides an opportunity to explore the medical field while still in high school. The EMT course reflects St. Joseph’s commitment to connecting classroom learning with real-world careers, service, and community impact.
(Jen Hanley is the Community Engagement Specialist for the Diocese of Bridgeport Catholic Schools. You can reach her at [email protected])
