December 2020
In This Issue:
1. Austin Prep Enjoys Record Enrollment
2. Austin Prep Presents Webinar Series Continues
3. Admissions Green Key Ambassador Training
4. 2020 Recipients of the St. Augustine Lumen Award Announced
5. Virtual Austin Prep Open House
6. Third Time’s a Charm: Austin Prep Wins Another Nason Award
7. Austin Prep Traditions Continue Even During Pandemic
8. Support the Annual Fund as Year Comes to a Close
9. Survey for Austin Prep Reunions for Classes Ending in 0 & 5 and 1 & 6
Austin Prep Enjoys Record Enrollment
While the global pandemic changed much of how we live, learn, and work, it did not slow interest in Austin Prep. With 760 students currently enrolled, the school continued to maintain a waitlist for the 2020–2021 academic year.
“Families have been extremely impressed with how well Austin Prep has been able to continue to adapt and pivot to the current climate without missing a beat,” said Director of Admissions Steve Silverthorn.
The Remote Teaching and Learning (RTL) program played a key role in enrollment interest, offering a modified rotating block schedule that maintained advisory programming and a strong sense of community.
Classes are 45 minutes long, allowing real-time instruction, discussion, and individualized mentoring.
A successful Day of Giving provided critical funding for the technology and infrastructure needed for both in-person and remote learning.
Mr. Silverthorn added that Austin Prep’s success reflects the leadership of Dr. Hickey, the Board of Trustees, faculty, and staff who worked extensively to prepare for the school year.
214 new students were welcomed virtually by student leaders. Student Government President TJ Dysart ’21 helped lead orientation for new students, and middle school leaders hosted grade-level Zoom meet-and-greets.
Austin Prep Presents Webinar Series Continues
The Office of Alumni Relations launched Austin Prep Presents to connect alumni with the broader school community through virtual programming.
The series debuted with Jim Knowlton ’78 and Joe Sciacca ’75, highlighting alumni achievements and experiences.
The next session, “How to Create Your Own Podcast,” takes place Tuesday, December 22 at 7:00 p.m. featuring Alissa Galligani ’14 and Gianna Gravalese ’16, hosted by students Marvin Twombley ’21 and TJ Dysart ’21.
Upcoming programs include:
- “Estate Planning” with Rob Peterson ’04 — January 26
- “Super Bowl Party Menu” with Peter Agostinelli ’96 — February 2
- “Today’s Real Estate Market for First-Time Home Buyers” with Felicia Giuliano-Kennedy ’09 — February 23
- “Childcare and Eldercare” with Ashley Samperi ’04 and Sheetal Patel ’05 — March 23
- “Photography and Instagram” with Evan Guarino ’06 — April 27
- “Faith and Leadership in Golf” with Bob Baldassari ’80 — May 25
- #IAmRemarkable Workshop with Sharon Driscoll Klardie ’96 — June 25
Register for Austin Prep Presents Webinars
Admissions Green Key Ambassador Training
The Green Key Ambassador program provides students leadership opportunities while engaging with prospective families. In October, 200 students participated in virtual leadership workshops focused on relational leadership, bias awareness, and mentorship aligned with the school theme “I pray that they will all be one” (John 17:21).
Students later supported virtual shadow days and online open house panels throughout the semester.
2020 Recipients of the St. Augustine Lumen Award Announced
Mrs. Marla Pascucci-Byrne and Ms. Celia Barletta were recognized for outstanding faculty contributions through the St. Augustine Lumen Award.
Trustee Joey Carregal ’05 introduced the recipients, and Dr. James Hickey and Board Chair Dan Bouchard presented the awards.
The ceremony was held December 8 during a socially distanced faculty meeting.
Virtual Austin Prep Open House
The Fall Open House was held virtually to introduce prospective families to Austin Prep’s mission and programs.
Families participated in webinars featuring faculty, students, parents, and administrators, with live Q&A opportunities.
Additional sessions were offered for those unable to attend.
Third Time’s a Charm: Austin Prep Wins Another Nason Award
Austin Prep was named the recipient of the Boston Globe Nason Award for the third consecutive year, recognizing excellence in athletics among Catholic co-educational schools.
Austin Prep Traditions Continue Even During Pandemic
Signature traditions such as Lessons and Carols and The Nutcracker continued through livestreamed and modified performances supported by schoolwide technology investments.
Support the Annual Fund as Year Comes to a Close
As the year ends, the community is encouraged to support Austin Prep through year-end giving.
Make a Gift to the Annual Fund
The Annual Fund supports academics, arts, athletics, technology, professional development, and mission-driven programming.
Survey for Austin Prep Reunions for Classes Ending in 0 & 5 and 1 & 6
Reunions for classes ending in 0 & 5 will be rescheduled alongside celebrations for additional milestone classes.