September 2023

The 2023-2024 Austin Prep Academic Year is Underway

 

Students arrived Wednesday, September 6th welcomed by faculty and staff and reunited with classmates as we kicked off the next year of our Austin Prep journey together. Traditionally occurring prior to Labor Day, the planned first day of school followed Labor Day this year to allow for time to complete a substantial $4.1 million building modernization project this summer which included a new HVAC system, among other classroom and building renovations. With unseasonably high temperatures for the opening days of school, it was a welcomed addition!

As is the case with every academic year, Austin Prep adopted a theme to help community members advance our mission and live our faith. Our Augustinian values are qualities of the mind, the hand, and the heart.  Together those values instill strength of character, and when practiced habitually, enhance the human capacity to act. Ultimately, personifying Augustinian virtues of truth, unity, and love in our lives is about integrity. To that end, for the 2023-2024 academic year, our theme comes from the Book of Psalms (7:8): “Judge me, O Lord, according to my righteousness, and according to the integrity that is in me.” Through this theme, we will focus our conversations, actions, lessons, choices, activities, and liturgies on the inseparable connection to veritas, unitas, and caritas.

To view photos from the first day of class, click here.

September 16, 2023

Austin Prep Concludes 60th Anniversary Celebration with Convocation

 

On Thursday, September 14th, Austin Prep marked the official start of the academic year with the celebration of the annual Convocation Liturgy. Austin Prep welcomed Seán Cardinal O’Malley, Archbishop of Boston, as the principal celebrant and homilist. The celebration, open to parents and livestreamed to the school community, also helped conclude Austin Prep's 60th Anniversary Celebration. You can view photos from the day here.

Complete with the pageantry expected of Convocation – including the procession of students carrying class banners, welcomed by faculty in academic regalia to the sounds of the Boston Police Gaelic Column of Pipes and Drums – this year's liturgy continued to include a parade of flags representing the national heritages of those in our school community. Over 80 national flags were included.

 

 

Ava Intoppa '24, School-Wide Student Government President, began the ceremony by addressing her classmates.  "I am honored to have the opportunity to welcome Cardinal O’Malley to campus today to celebrate this special mass and bless the school year as we close out our 60th anniversary, and look forward to a new chapter of our story, " Ava said. "I am also honored to address all of you, my teachers, classmates, and friends here today to celebrate our membership in this community and our love for God and one another. I am extremely excited for the year that is to come, and even more excited to be able to experience it with all of you and to see what each member of this student community will do."

Cardinal O'Malley begin his remarks by thanking all those who over the past 60 years have helped make Austin Prep the institution that it is, then reflected on the importance of Catholic education.

"In a time of more people living alone, a part of Catholic education is bringing us together to discover our connectedness," Cardinal O'Malley said. "It is our faith that allows us to discover the meaning and value and things. Who we are made in the image and likeness of God. What is our mission? What is our purpose? All of this is so important in Catholic Education."

Head of School, Dr. James Hickey P'22, '23, '24 '27, welcomed those in attendance, thanked Cardinal Seán for his support of Austin Prep over the years, and congratulated him on recently celebrating 20 years as the Archbishop of Boston.  Dr. Hickey made note of the attendance of Augustinian Friars Fr. Art Johnson, O.S.A., Fr. Peter Gori '70, and Trustee Fr. Ray Dlugos, O.S.A.  and the Augustinians of the Assumption, who joined the Austin Prep community this year.

"60 years is certainly a significant milestone, but when you place those 60 years in the context of St. Augustine's heritage, the milestone is a bit diminished, " Dr. Hickey said. "St. Augustine was born in 354, and for nearly 1700 years his legacy has endured. Our 60 years is only one tiny part of 17 centuries. Our restless Journey in the footsteps of Augustine has kept Austin Prep steady, and determined, and resolute. We have much to celebrate, and much to be proud of."

Dr. Hickey then added, that despite our successes, “St. Augustine told us that 'humility must be with us everywhere. For as soon as we glory in our good works, they are of no further value to our advancement to virtue.'"

 

To mark the occasion, Senior Class Officers Ryan O'Malley '24 and  Lauren Neal '24 presented the Class of 2024 banner, which will eventually be hoisted to the rafters of Meelia Hall, where it will remain until being lowered at Baccalaureate Mass in May, 2024. View the raising of the banner here.

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Community Dances the Night Away at the Black Tie Gala

 

We had an amazing celebration Friday night as nearly 300 parents, past parents, faculty, alumni, Trustees and friends celebrated Austin Prep's 60th Anniversary at the Burlington Marriott. It was an unforgettable dinner and dancing event, noting the accomplishments of yesterday, embracing the opportunities of today, and imagining the future with pride, confidence, and optimism.

 

Be on the lookout on social media and for next week's Cougar Cougar for additional reflections on the evening. In the meantime, gratitude is due to Ms. Susan Belanger, Assistant Head for Administration and Special Projects, and her team for hosting an incredible event. Cheers to the next 60 years! 

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School Picture Day is Monday

 

This is a reminder that Picture Day is Monday, September 18th. Picture Day is for all students, grades 6-12, and will take place in Meelia Hall from 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Chapel Dress is required for Picture Day. Students will be notified via announcements when to proceed to Meelia Hall for their photos. Mark Lawrence Photographers has three options to order photos from Picture Day, and those options will be sent to families in advance of Monday.

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First Community Mass is September 24th

 

Our first monthly Sunday Community Mass will take place on September 24th at 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel of St. Augustine.

We encourage our school families who regularly attend Sunday Mass at their local parish to consider joining us for this monthly Sunday Mass. The Mass will give us an opportunity to meet each other and pray together. We will join for a time of fellowship in the Dining Hall after Mass. To help us with our planning, we would ask families to RSVP by clicking here so we can take an appropriate count for the Coffee and Donut Hour.

Students are required to attend with their parents. We look forward to seeing you on September 24th as we strengthen each other through this act of celebrating Mass together.

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Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration Begins

 

Austin Prep looks forward to celebrating diverse cultures, starting with Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15th to October 15th. During this time, we will recognize the contributions, achievements and influence of Hispanic Americans on the history and culture of the United States. This month is significant as it includes the date of independence for many Hispanic countries. At community meeting this week, Mr. Jaycob Morales, Coordinator of Community Engagement and Inclusion, presented to students the programming plans for the month, as well as an overview of the Office of Mission and Inclusion.

Throughout the month we will provide students with opportunities to embrace and celebrate Hispanic culture. In the coming weeks, students will be able to indulge in different Spanish cuisine at lunch in the dining hall. Meals will include dishes from various Hispanic countries including Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Panama, and Cuba. 

For more information, contact Mr. Morales, and be on the lookout for more information around campus, here in the Cougar Courier and on social media.

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Save the Date for Open House: Sunday, October 22

 

The Office of Admissions is hosting the annual Fall Open House on Sunday, October 22nd from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for future students interested in grades 6 - 11. Guests should pre-register for the open house on the Austin Prep Admissions page. 

Open House visitors will have the opportunity to meet Middle and Upper School faculty, school leaders, coaches, and take tours of our campus with Green Key Student Ambassadors.

Some of our best referrals come from current Austin Prep parents. We would be most grateful if you spread the word to those in your community about the Open House event and your own Austin Prep experience. Additionally, we are looking for Parent Volunteers to staff our registration tables and to help welcome prospective families. If you are interested, please contact Mrs. Lisa Simmons, Assistant Director of Admissions.

Won't be able to participate at Open House but want everyone in your hometown to know you are a part of the Austin Prep community? Help us advertise the Austin Prep Open House by proudly displaying a yard sign at your home. Students are welcome to pick up a yard sign in the Admissions Office from 2:30 to 3:00 p.m. any day next week. Signs are available with or without a stake. We appreciate your support!

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Austin Prep Community Honors Victims of September 11th

 

Monday morning, Austin Prep students, faculty, and staff took time to reflect, pray and observe a moment of silence to commemorate the 22nd anniversary of the attacks and loss of life on September 11th, 2001. Dr. William Driscoll '89, Dean of Faculty, and members of Austin Prep Schoolwide Student Government offered reflections and read prayers at 8:46 a.m., the time of the first attack on that fateful day. 

 

 

Additionally, this week our History Department examined the events of September 11th, including a review of first-hand accounts and primary sources. During Ms. Jess Swindell’s Research Methods in History classes, History Department Chair Jon Whalen visited to discuss his experiences during the terrible events of that day. Mr. Whalen was living in Belgium at the time as a professional baseball player living with a host family. His host explained to him that there was a plane crash so he tuned into European TV to learn the alarming news that was made more difficult because he knew his parents were traveling by plane at the time. After a frantic 24 hours, he finally made contact with them to learn that they were rerouted with 25,000 others to Moncton, Canada where they spent three days. Additionally, Mr. Whalen related the news of three of his classmates from Williams College who were working in the North Tower at the time who all had very different experiences. Students were engrossed in his narrative, especially when he presented them with a newspaper that his mother purchased on September 13th while in Canada. Mr. Whalen challenged the class to critically analyze the source and identify what reporters got right at the time and what information turned out to be faulty. This method of sharing direct experiences helps students to contextualize history while asking meaningful questions of presenters. 

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

 

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Sixth Grade Builds Community with Mini Golf and Ice Cream

 

Members of the Class of 2030 spent Friday morning getting to know one another as they played miniature golf and enjoyed ice cream sundaes at Richardson's Farm. Students were placed in foursomes to play their 18 holes of golf and were prompted to dialogue with each other with conversation starters provided by faculty members at different holes on the course. An ice cream treat capped off the afternoon. This class activity was planned by the Office of Student Life as part of a series of programs designed to build community among students. View photos from the day here.

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Back-to-School Night a Success

 

Thank you to all our parents who attended our virtual Back to School night on Wednesday. It was an opportunity to get a brief overview of your child's academic schedule and receive an introduction to our faculty.  The collaborative effort between our Office of Academic Affairs and Technology Department was again a success, as we hosted nearly 80 class meetings simultaneously, with over 4,500 individual Zoom meeting parent log-ins over the course of the evening. The next formal opportunity to meet with faculty will be during Parent Conferences on Friday, November 17th. More details to come.

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Sub-Varsity Student-Athletes Blessed for the Fall Season

 

Austin Prep fall sports sub-varsity student-athletes received a blessing from Fr. Patrick Armano, School Chaplain. and St. Michael medals Monday morning as they journey towards their competitive seasons. St. Michael is an archangel, a spiritual warrior in the battle of good versus evil. Tomorrow, September 17th, varsity student-athletes and coaches will join in the celebration of the Eucharist in the Chapel of St. Augustine, asking for God's blessing for a safe and healthy Fall 2023 season. After the Mass, teams and families will enjoy a community breakfast in the Dining Hall. Best of luck this fall!

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Austin Prep's Massive Infrastructure Project Chills Hot First Week

Austin Prep’s patron, St. Augustine, had an exhortation in one of his sermons: “Do not be content with what you are, if you want to become what you are not yet. For where you have grown pleased with yourself, there you will remain…Always add something more, keep moving forward, always make progress.” As a school community, Austin Prep takes St. Augustine’s advice to heart. The school remains in growth mode with the past summer being another one of sustained progress and transformation.

Shortly after the final bell rang to close the 2022-2023 academic year Austin Prep undertook a massive $4.2 million capital project to replace the school’s heating system, install air conditioning to instructional and administrative space, and modernize instructional space and technology. This initiative was another giant step forward in modernizing the school’s facilities. In upgrading the school’s mechanical systems, Austin Prep also installed HVAC equipment that is more energy efficient, thereby reducing our carbon footprint, and focusing on care for the natural environment.

The project was set in motion after the decision by the Board of Trustees in January 2023 to move forward with the major renovation project. The work spanned 14 summer weeks, an initiative that long time school project and construction management partner Pimentel Construction called “one of our most complex projects we’ve completed for Austin Prep yet, renovating 70,000 square feet across the entire academic building.”

Despite the considerable scope of work, the school year kicked off on time as planned, and in an ironic twist, students enjoyed a cool first week of class during an unseasonably late-summer heat wave that saw temperatures reach into the 90s.

The HVAC and classroom modernization project is an indication of Austin Prep’s bright future and continued growth. As the school closed a year of celebrating its 60^th anniversary – Austin Prep first admitted students in 1963 – the project was also a symbolic step forward as the school rises to meet the challenge of the next 60 years and beyond. It is likely that the only time Austin Prep experienced a project of a similar magnitude in its 60 year history was when the cornerstone was laid.

The summer infrastructure project was the next in a line of considerable additions to the campus footprint in recent years, including a completely renovated Dining Hall with all-inclusive dining plan in 2018; a state-of-the-art athletic complex including a baseball stadium with synthetic playing surface, playing space for soccer and field hockey, and a six tennis court facility in 2020; and a new modular and flexible science lab to support teaching and learning in the life, chemical, and physical sciences in both the Upper and Middle Schools, plus renovations to the Chapel of St. Augustine in 2022.

New infrastructure projects of this nature are funded by philanthropy, and in order to expand programming, launch new initiatives, or add infrastructure Austin Prep relies on the generosity of parents and benefactors to support these endeavors, and will need to continue to do so. The school is grateful for those who made gifts to advance the growth of teaching and learning, and to make projects like these a reality.

As a result of the work. it’s unmistakable that Austin Prep’s instructional space has been transformed – it’s bright, modern, and well equipped to begin the school’s next 60 years.      

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Take a Moment to Ensure Your Contact Information is Accurate

Now that we have settled in to the new academic year, please make sure that we have updated and accurate contact information in the Parent Portal.

In the event Austin Prep needs to contact families for any reason, we will notify you via email and text message. It is important you make sure both your email address and mobile phone number are up to date to ensure you receive these important messages.

To check or update your information, log in to the Portal using your credentials - not your child's. From the Portal Homepage, click on My Profile in the top navigation bar. Go to My Personal Contact Information and check or update your email and mobile phone.

If you want your child to receive text message notifications, you need to input his/her mobile phone number into the system through the Parent Portal. From the Portal Homepage, click on My Profile in the top navigation bar. Click on Your Child's Contact Information, and you will be able to input or change his/her mobile phone number. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

September 23, 2023

Community Dances the Night Away at the Black Tie Gala

We had an amazing celebration Friday, September 15th as nearly 300 parents, past parents, faculty, alumni, Trustees and friends celebrated Austin Prep's 60th Anniversary at the Burlington Marriott. It was an unforgettable dinner and dancing event, filled with joy, laughter, and a strong sense of community, noting the accomplishments of yesterday, embracing the opportunities of today, and imagining the future with pride, confidence, and optimism. 

One of the highlights of the evening was the premiere of a video piece documenting our strong history with an eye towards the future. You can view the video by clicking the video icon above. Additionally, you can view some video highlights from the evening here, as well as photos.

We are grateful for all our students, staff, parents, past parents, alumni, Trustees, friends and more, for the six decades of unwavering support and for being an essential part of our school’s legacy. We look forward to many more years of partnership and success.

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School Picture Day Retakes are October 30th

 

Neither rain nor excessive I-93 related traffic could impact a smooth and efficient picture day on Monday. Mark Lawrence Photography continues to be our professional photographers and we are including a link to their website should you be interested in purchasing your child's photo. If you missed picture day, you can have your picture taken on October 30th. More details and a reminder will be sent the week prior. As always, Chapel Dress is required for Picture Day. 

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First Community Mass is Tomorrow

 

Our first monthly Sunday Community Mass will take place tomorrow at 9:30 a.m. in the Chapel of St. Augustine.

We encourage our school families who regularly attend Sunday Mass at their local parish to consider joining us for this monthly Sunday Mass. The Mass will give us an opportunity to meet each other and pray together. We will join for a time of fellowship in the Dining Hall after Mass. To help us with our planning, we would ask families to RSVP by clicking here so we can take an appropriate count for the Coffee and Donut Hour.

Students are required to attend with their parents. We look forward to seeing you tomorrow as we strengthen each other through this act of celebrating Mass together.

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Austin Prep Recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month

 

Austin Prep will continue to prioritize our attention and resources on promoting greater justice and inclusion. We are animated by the life and teaching of St. Augustine and the Augustinians. Our Augustinian values anchor our work in the Office of Mission and Inclusion.

Interacting with diverse cultures fosters intellectual and personal growth, develops leadership skills, promotes awareness, and furthers global engagement. Austin Prep condemns bigotry, intolerance, prejudice, and racism in any form and our Catholic faith calls us to action to do all we can to foster greater respect and justice for all. As we exemplify veritas, unitas, and caritas in our community and beyond, we are proudly promoting Hispanic Heritage Month at Austin Prep for the 2023-2024 Academic Year.

The programming for Hispanic Heritage Month is based on the mission of Austin Prep to encourage learning; educating the whole person, the service of faith, and the promotion of justice. The day of September 15th is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16th and September 18th, respectively. National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually to recognize the contributions, achievements, and influence of Hispanic Americans on religion, art, athletics, business, history, and culture in the United States and across the world. Starting in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson, the celebration was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to observe a 30-day period, officially being enacted into law on August 17, 1988.

Throughout the month we will provide students with opportunities to embrace and celebrate Hispanic culture. This week, students enjoyed Dominican inspired cuisine in the Dining Hall.  Take a closer look at what was served here.

For more information, contact Mr. Jaycob Morales, Coordinator of Community Engagement and Inclusion and be on the lookout for more information for events around campus, here in the Cougar Courier and on social media.

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Dr. Hickey Recognized by Alma Mater

 

Head of School James Hickey, Ph.D., was presented with the Kevin Sheehy ’67 M’70 M’92 H’99 Alumni Leadership Medal last night at Wagner College's Grand Celebration as a part of Wagner Weekend.

The Wagner College Alumni Association annually recognizes outstanding alumni who have given distinguished service to Wagner College and the community at large. Dr. Hickey, who received his bachelor’s degree in Political Science and History in 1994 and his master’s in Secondary Education in 1997 from the Staten Island, NY, college, held student leadership roles at Wagner and upon graduating contributed to school alumni and development initiatives. Additionally, Dr. Hickey was an Adjunct Professor in the college's Education Department for 15 years.

You can learn more about the award and recipients here.

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Get Your Austin Prep Gear Now!

Shopping for Austin Prep apparel and branded items just got a little easier with our Fall Online Store, open now to parents, students, faculty and staff.

Please remember, only the polo shirts and 1/4 zip pullovers are allowed to be worn in school. School approved apparel is identified on the site. All orders will be sent directly to your home and are scheduled to arrive in late October or early November. The store is open right now and will close at midnight on October 1st.

Also, feel free to visit the Unitas Shop to purchase other Austin Prep branded gear. The school store is typically open every day after school from 2:30 - 3:00 p.m.

More online stores will be open throughout the year, but don't miss this current opportunity by clicking here. Happy Shopping!

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Austin Prep Faculty Featured in Professional Publications

 

Austin Prep educators seek to become forward-thinking leaders in their field: being visionaries and skilled practitioners in their academic disciplines. Moreover, our philosophy is nested within Augustinian pedagogy that takes a holistic approach to education that promotes the growth of our students to become lifelong learners dedicated to the common good. Teachers model lifelong learning through multiple professional development opportunities, including sabbaticals in the Czech Republic, Rome, England, Spain, and across the United States. Additionally, master teachers mentor teaching fellows from Endicott College and Merrimack College. Members of our faculty also serve as professors at Endicott College and Boston College. Our faculty is selected to present at national, state, and local conferences and are profiled in publications for athletics and academics. Throughout the year we will highlight examples of excellence within our professional community. This week we share two examples with you.

Dr. William Driscoll '89, Dean of Faculty, recently wrote a review for Teachers College Record on a recent publication on refugee and asylum-seeking students. This was the topic of his dissertation research. For a link to  the book review click here.

Mr. Michael McLaughlin, Head of Middle School, coordinates the international travel programs at Austin Prep. This year, a Remembrance Journey will take 50 Upper School students to Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic as they confront the evils of the Holocaust through a series of visits and reflections. Mr. McLaughlin is also a freelance travel writer and regularly writes on the student group travel market. This summer, Mr. McLaughlin's article on the state of the industry, Adapt and Innovate, highlighted the programs offered at Austin Prep and was featured as the lead story in Youth Travel Planner, a national trade publication for the educational travel sector. You can read Mr. McLaughlin's article here.

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Tennis, Anyone?

 

The Austin Prep Girls and Boys Varsity Coaching Staffs are excited to offer two fall tennis clinics. These offerings are for all skill levels and grades including middle school. This is a great way to meet the coaches, learn about the program and get some practice or an introduction to the sport. All students are welcome, and students interested in the tennis program this spring are strongly encouraged to attend. There is a limit of 50 students per clinic and you are welcome to sign up for both if there is room. Please sign up on the link below. 

Dates: October 1st and October 15th
Time: 8:30 a.m. -10:00 a.m.
Location: Austin Prep Lower Sports Complex Tennis Courts
Registration: CLICK HERE!

More information will be communicated through the coaches via email once you are registered and the first clinic date approaches. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any additional questions via email to Head Girls Coach Mr. Michael Collins.

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Austin Prep Represented at World Tap Championships

 

Austin Prep students Molly Blaney '30, Maddy Dinunzio '28, and Kaitlyn Riordan '26 will be representing the United States next week as members of the USA Tap Dance Team where they will compete for the World Tap Championships also know as the “Olympics of Dance." This event will take place September 25th through September 30th, 2023 in Riesa, Germany and our students will be competing against dancers from approximately 30 other countries. In addition to performing in a new country, the cultural exchange is an important part of the experience as participants will not only meet dancers from all over Europe, but they will also meet dancers from Canada, Mexico, Australia, South Africa, Japan, China and South Korea and the team will also have the opportunity to travel to Dresden, Berlin, Meissen and Prague where they will visit churches, museums and World War II sites. More information about the event, including schedule and livestream details can be found here. Good luck, Molly, Maddy and Kaitlyn!

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Save the Date for Open House: Sunday, October 22

 

The Office of Admissions is hosting the annual Fall Open House on Sunday, October 22nd from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. for future students interested in grades 6 - 11. Guests should pre-register for the open house on the Austin Prep Admissions page. 

Open House visitors will have the opportunity to meet Middle and Upper School faculty, school leaders, coaches, and take tours of our campus with Green Key Student Ambassadors.

Some of our best referrals come from current Austin Prep parents. We would be most grateful if you spread the word to those in your community about the Open House event and your own Austin Prep experience. Additionally, we are looking for Parent Volunteers to staff our registration tables and to help welcome prospective families. If you are interested, please contact Mrs. Lisa Simmons, Assistant Director of Admissions.

Won't be able to participate at Open House but want everyone in your hometown to know you are a part of the Austin Prep community? Help us advertise the Austin Prep Open House by proudly displaying a yard sign at your home. Students are welcome to pick up a yard sign in the Admissions Office from 2:30 to 3:00 p.m. any day next week. Signs are available with or without a stake. We appreciate your support!

September 30, 2023

Get Your Austin Prep Gear Now!

Shopping for Austin Prep apparel and branded items just got a little easier with our Fall Online Store, open now to parents, students, faculty and staff.

Please remember, only the polo shirts and 1/4 zip pullovers are allowed to be worn in school. School approved apparel is identified on the site. All orders will be sent directly to your home and are scheduled to arrive in late October or early November. The store is open right now and will close tomorrow, October 1st, at midnight.

Also, feel free to visit the Unitas Shop to purchase other Austin Prep branded gear. The school store is typically open every day after school from 2:30 - 3:00 p.m.

More online stores will be open throughout the year, but don't miss this current opportunity by clicking here. Happy Shopping!

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All School Rosary Takes Place on Monday

 

By tradition, the Catholic Church dedicates each month of the year to certain devotions. The month of October is dedicated to the Most Holy Rosary, one of the best known of all Catholic devotions. October 7th is the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. 

The Office of Campus Ministry has prepared an all school Rosary for Monday, October 2nd at 10:30 a.m. in Meelia Hall. The Rosary will be led by students in the Campus Ministry Club. 

Students are welcome to bring their Rosaries.

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Blue Mass Coming October 10th

 

The 7th Annual Blue Mass for First Responders will take place Tuesday, October 10th at 10:00 a.m. in Richard J. Meelia '67 Hall. The Blue Mass has become an Austin Prep tradition and one of the most cherished days of the academic year. Parents who are First Responders are invited to join us for Mass and for Brunch in the Heritage Room immediately following Mass. Alumni who are First Responders are also invited to the Mass and Brunch. First Responders are asked to wear their uniforms to Mass and breakfast. Parents and Alumni who are First Responders and able to join us for brunch are asked to respond here by Tuesday, October 3rd. Please contact Susan Belanger, Assistant Head of School for Administration and Special Projects with questions.

 

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Austin Prep Recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month

 

Austin Prep will continue to prioritize our attention and resources on promoting justice and inclusion in the classroom and beyond. Our work in the Office of Mission and Inclusion is animated by the life and teaching of St. Augustine and the Augustinians. We draw upon our Augustinian values of  veritas, unitas, and caritas  to promote Hispanic Heritage Month at Austin Prep for the 2023-2024 Academic Year.

On Friday, Austin Prep welcomed restauranteurs Emily and Lorenzo Tenreiro P'23, '25, '27, who own the Melrose restaurant La Qchara, which offers Central and South American selections, and Tahpas 529, which features Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine. Prior to opening up the La Qchara food truck to students during lunch for a selection of authentic tastes of Central and South America, the Austin Prep parents spoke to the Young Business Leaders of America Club, focusing on human resources, real estate, expansion, and managing a business.

Earlier in the day, Students from B Block Spanish classes with Señora Celia Barletta, Señora Rebecca Martiniello, Señora Linda Filadoro, and Señora Linda Sherry met to discuss the importance of Hispanic culture to the business model. They shared how their dream was to celebrate their passion for cultural heritage and experience in the restaurant business. Students generated questions in English and Spanish while Emily and Lorenzo emphasized the importance of being multilingual in a growing multicultural area. 

The programming for Hispanic Heritage Month is based on the mission of Austin Prep to encourage learning; educating the whole person, the service of faith, and the promotion of justice. National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually to recognize the contributions, achievements, and influence of Hispanic Americans on religion, art, athletics, business, history, and culture in the United States and across the world. Starting in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson, the celebration was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to observe a 30-day period, officially being enacted into law on August 17, 1988.

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College Counseling Hosts College Admissions Representatives

 

The Office of College Counseling has been hard at work this fall hosting college admissions representatives from around the country. On Wednesday, Austin Prep hosted Boston College, and we are grateful that our students had the opportunity to hear from a Boston College Admissions representative. Students can check the daily announcements and Veracross for the college visit schedule or stop by the Office of College Counseling to learn more. Next week (on October 5th), we host the University of Notre Dame, among many other schools.

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Students Living our Mission

Check this space monthly as we recognize students demonstrating our values on campus.

 

Unitas is a key component of what distinguishes an Augustinian education from all others. We continue to look forward to working together to strengthen our community in a way that is reflective of our core values of veritas, unitas, and caritas.

As we do so, the Office of Student Life aims to build students of strong character while recognizing exemplary behavior on campus. Students who best display the values that are distinctive to the Austin Prep experience will be acknowledged monthly here in the Cougar Courier and on social media.

This month, we would like to recognize the work of Jack Sweeney '24, Mikey Brosnan ‘26 and Patrick Simmons ‘30. Without being asked, Jack assisted a younger student in need by escorting him to lunch, helping him grab food, and getting him to a table to be with other friends. Mikey has demonstrated selfless behavior multiple times this month by volunteering to hold the door for the entire student body following Convocation, as well as helping clean in the dining hall without being asked. Patrick embodies the charisma of Unitas by asking a new student to sit with his group during lunch. Their leadership and integrity are qualities we look for in our students. Great job, Jack, Mikey and Patrick!

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Class of 2027 Visits Boda Borg Trip

 

The Class of 2027 had a great class trip Thursday to Boda Borg Boston! It was a great day for freshmen to spend time together and create memories with friends and classmates.  Next week, the Sophomore Class of 2026 will visit Boundless Adventures. The Office of Student Life looks forward to planning more class based trips as the year progresses.

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Athletic Evolution Strength and Conditioning Partnership Continues

 

As we continue to strive to provide our students with the best health and wellness opportunities possible, we are excited to announce that Athletic Evolution, a local athletic performance organization, has been contracted to provide all students with a structured strength & conditioning program throughout the school year. Athletic Evolution has been servicing athletes of all ages from middle school to professional athletes for over 15 years, and will now be providing coaching services to our students in our David E. Nelson ’81 Fitness Center.

As we enter into the third year of our partnership, it's a pleasure to introduce our new Strength and Conditioning Coach, Mr. Joe Connolly.  Joe is a 2015 graduate of Austin Prep from Andover, MA. and graduated from Stonehill College in 2019, where he ran track and field. After graduating, he was the Track and Field Coach at Dover-Sherborn High School. Most recently, he received his masters’ degree in Exercise Science and Physiology from Merrimack College, and while at Merrimack, he had a fellowship with the Harvard Strength and Conditioning Staff, and was the head strength coach for the Men’s Rugby team. In addition to being our Head Strength and Conditioning Coach, he does personal training in the speed academy for Athletic Evolution. His Father, Mark Connolly, graduated from Austin Prep in 1983, and his sister, Fiona Connolly, graduated in 2019.

Coach Connolly will oversee the Fitness Center Monday through Friday.  He will guide interested students through a customized strength and conditioning program. This continued resource will provide structure in the facility and will help lead to success on and off the field, as well as help students reach their personal fitness related goals. Students should visit the Fitness Center during after school hours to learn more about getting started. 

As an added benefit of the partnership, Athletic Evolution is offering Austin Prep students the following discounts for programs at their Wilmington facility:

• 10% discount to all Austin Prep students for any programs AE offers (Personal Training, Semi-Private Training, Team Training (Youth, and Speed Programs). 
• Free injury screens to all Austin Prep athletes for our physical therapy department.

To receive this discount you can reference it when you call their office (781-935-7701). Please do not hesitate to reach out to Mr. Patrick Driscoll '97, Director of Athletics, with any questions about the program.  

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Farewell, Patty Fothergill

 

Yesterday marked Manager of Accounting Patty Fothergill's, last day at Austin Prep, as she is retiring after 17 years of service.  An Austin Prep past parent of Andrew '06 and Edward '09, Patty has provided incredibly loyal and detailed support to Austin Prep and the business office over her tenure. Austin Prep faculty and staff -- in particular -- have benefitted in one way or the other from Patty's commitment to her craft over the years.  On Wednesday, faculty and staff joined Patty for fellowship and to say good bye and good luck as Patty leaves Austin Prep for the happy days of retirement!

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Community Spotlight: Meaghan Holloran

 

Note: Our vibrant campus comes to life as a result of the talented students and faculty who make up the Austin Prep community. We look forward to periodically highlighting those individuals here in the Cougar Courier.

 

Hometown: Woburn, MA

Education/Degrees: BS in Biology from Stonehill College; M.Ed. in Secondary Education from Boston College

Years at Austin Prep: first year

Years working in Education: 13

Department/Area of Subject: Science Department Chair – teaching Biology and Anatomy & Physiology

Describe a teacher who inspired you growing up: I am fortunate to have had many excellent teachers and professors throughout my academic journey. One of my favorite teachers was my high school French teacher, Ms. Fiore. Her class was always fun and engaging and she was always encouraging her students to try new things. She really helped me grow into a more confident student and inspired me to study abroad in France and minor in French while I was in college.

Do you have a motto you teach by? Or an expression you try to instill in your classroom?:  My teaching philosophy has always been that all students are capable of learning at high levels.

If you weren’t a teacher, what career would you have?: I loved my college internships at the Museum of Science, so if I had not become a teacher, I can see myself having continued a career in informal education and helping people of all ages engage more with science and learn new things.

Accolades: Boston College Distinguished Student Teacher Award (2015)

Favorite Quote: “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.”  - Zig Ziglar

Fun fact (about you or your past; something colleagues & students might not ordinarily know): I worked as both a Learn-to-Skate and Learn-to-Ski instructor during my high school and college years.

Any other information you would like to share: I am excited to be a part of the Austin Prep community!