Strategic Plan Imagine the Possibilities…

The Ursuline Academy
Strategic Plan
2009
Imagine the Possibilities…
Vision Statement
Ursuline Academy will attain recognition as one of the best
schools in Massachusetts for young women, characterized
by the Ursuline tradition of academic excellence and
personalized educational experiences. To realize this vision,
we must rise to the challenge of seven Strategic Initiatives.
Strategic Initiative I: Mission Integration
Strategic Initiative II: Academics
Strategic Initiative III: Student Life
Strategic Initiative IV: Athletics
Strategic Initiative V: Fine Arts
Strategic Initiative VI: Technology
Strategic Initiative VII: Facilities
Mission Statement
Ursuline Academy is a Catholic school for young women that provides a
college preparatory education rooted in the traditions and values of St.
Angela Merici:
• Excellence in education;
• Respect for the uniqueness of the individual;
• Development of the whole person;
• Community and family spirit;
• Cultivation of leadership qualities;
• Willingness to serve others, as embodied in its motto,
SERVIAM
History of Ursuline Academy
The mission of Ursuline Academy is rooted in the vision and charism
of St. Angela Merici, a woman truly unique for her time.
In the mid-sixteenth century, God sent a vision to a devout and willing woman of faith as she returned from a long
pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Though we may never know what message St. Angela Merici received from God, it
was in good time and with clear vision that she established a small Company of women who made every effort to
provide education and guidance to young women. During those times, education for women was generally reserved
for wealthy classes or nuns, and Angela recognized that to foster young women in mind and faith was to
acknowledge her call from God.
Active and devoted lay persons found her an inspiring leader, deeply faithful to the Church, and filled by the Spirit
with a confidence in women’s own capability. Angela read the “signs of the times” and carried forth a mission that
would honor education in all things, for women of all circumstances. She created the Ursuline Order and made it
her life’s mission to serve those seeking spiritual and educational guidance. Her vision for young women was
expressed through her life’s work, and is confirmed by the present Ursuline Constitutions:
“Our Ursuline tradition of education offers a Christian vision of the person and the world; enables young
women to view their culture in the light of faith and to be a gospel leaven, that is, to be leaders actively engaged in
the concerts of their own ‘marketplace’, creatively involving themselves in the restructuring of a more just society.”
St. Angela Merici created the Ursuline Order to serve as a beacon of hope for young women, and in turn set fire
to a mission that continues to bring light to students around the world. True to Angela’s spirit, the order retains its
devotion to the vision and principles of educational excellence while honoring innovation and exercising flexibility
to meet the needs of changing times. As opportunities for young women continue to multiply, it is our responsibility
to preserve the Ursuline mission by meeting the advancements and challenges of tomorrow with enthusiasm.
Long ago, Angela asked her Company “to take great care that the good directions given you are observed in earnest”
and in the same breath added, “If, with change of times and circumstances, it becomes necessary to make fresh rules
or to alter anything, do it with prudence, after taking good advice.” – Last Legacy
The legacy of St. Angela Merici serves as a strong foundation upon which we continue to build. It is with confidence
in our legacy that we present a blueprint for the future of Ursuline Academy.
History
Ursuline Academy provides young women with a
well-rounded academic program rooted in the
values and traditions of a strong Ursuline
tradition: excellence in education, respect for the
uniqueness of the individual, development of the
whole person, community and family spirit,
cultivation of leadership qualities and willingness
to serve others, as embodied in its motto, Serviam.
The fundamental goal of an Ursuline education is
to infuse this mission into all aspects of daily life
and to instill in students an appreciation for
service and a commitment to learning.
Ursuline Academy’s uniqueness lies in its ability to
maintain this important balance between a
rigorous academic program and the total
development of the student’s heart, will and
intellect.
H Strategic Initiative I
H Strategic Initiative II
Ursuline Academy will distinguish itself as an exemplary
Catholic School through the lives of its students, faculty and
alumnae living out the mission teachings of St. Angela Merici,
foundress of the Ursuline order.
Ursuline Academy will reflect excellence throughout its
challenging and well-integrated academic curriculum designed
to meet the needs of a diverse student population.
Rationale
Rationale
“Exercise pleasantness toward all, taking great care what you have commanded
may never be done by reason or force. For God has given free will to everyone,
and therefore never forces anyone – but only indicates, calls and persuades.”
The true test of a successful Ursuline Academy graduate comes not before her
graduation day; rather, in her first year as a college student. Was she able to
produce well-written research papers in good time? Did she utilize the study
skills she mastered in high school to break down and retain advanced subject
matter? Did she display leadership qualities in a group, or even a class? Did she
extend herself to others and form friendships in unlikely places? Did she help
others?
These words of St. Angela Merici indicate that her goal was not to force the
divine mission on young women; rather, she hoped to set a strong example so
that they may be encouraged to enter the world as confident and spiritual
leaders.
In the same way, Ursuline Academy hopes to incorporate the spiritual experience
and mission into all aspects of life at the school to further enhance the academic,
athletic and social life of students. In making the mission more visible around
the school, students will be more apt to make it their own. While it is clear that
the Ursuline students understand the sacred mission of Serviam, it is more
important that they be encouraged to live accordingly on a daily basis: in the
classroom, on the athletic field, upon the stage or in the world.
Our Commitment
Our Commitment
With prayerful reflection, we intend to research and explore,
With prayerful reflection, we intend to research and explore,
to make certain that class size directly facilitates the lowest possible
student-to-faculty ratio, therefore insuring consistent academic support.
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to extend the hours in the school day, which would accommodate
additional educational and extracurricular opportunities.
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to further enhance professional development to consistently address
interdisciplinary and technological progress.
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to enhance and/or develop prayer/reflection space to further support
the spiritual development of our community.
to expand class offerings to enhance the curriculum while meeting
or exceeding current standards for college preparatory programs.
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to expand our students’ spiritual and social horizons by forging
relationships with brother schools, which may afford opportunities
to collaborate in community-building efforts.
to expand religious and non-religious based curricula to embrace the
tradition of St Angela and the Ursuline order.
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to provide educators and staff with opportunities for spiritual
development so that they may transmit the message of Serviam to
their students.
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to ensure that the divine and enduring legacy of St. Angela Merici
is the focal point of academic, athletic and social life at Ursuline
Academy – both physically and mentally.
Monthly liturgies, seasonal celebrations, prayer
services and annual religious retreats are
conducted to enhance spiritual development.
Groups like Students Offer Service and the Peer
Ministry Program, and events like Mission Day,
empower students to be socially conscious leaders
in service. The Ursuline curriculum includes a
challenging study of scripture, morality and ethics,
and a devoted faculty has made it their mission to
teach in accordance with Ursuline tradition.
Ursuline Academy has a long history of turning out bright, successful young
women who are academically prepared to handle even the highest levels of
academia. This preparation is rooted in the strong educational system that is
consistently evaluated and improved by administrators and staff. Class size,
scheduling, guidance, technology and course expansion are just a few of the
criteria that require consistent attention. Evaluation of competitive academic
institutions reveals that Ursuline is competitive, and as the standards for college
acceptance increase, so should academic opportunities at Ursuline Academy.
to forge relationships with other academic establishments where our
students might find opportunities to explore new or relevant subject
matter.
History
The Ursuline Academy curriculum is rooted in the
mission of St. Angela Merici and the Ursuline
Order, who made it their life’s work to empower
women by educating them fully in mind and spirit.
Since 1947, when the first Ursuline class
graduated from the Arlington Street campus,
hundreds of young women have been graduated
from Ursuline with the intellect to achieve and the
courage to succeed in the world. Ursuline offers a
diverse program of integrated and intensive
courses designed to inspire thought, spark
conversation and instill wisdom.
English, Science, Mathematics, History, Religion,
Language and Arts classes are offered at multiple
skill levels, ensuring that each student is
supported in her academic pursuits. Classes are
tactfully organized to allot time for extended
study, academic assistance or extracurricular
opportunities which provide students with outlets
to explore beyond the classroom.
In recent years, technology has become a common
resource for administrators, teachers, students
and parents alike. To prepare students for college,
Ursuline provides competitive academics,
advanced placement and honors classes, and
consistent advisement through the application
process. Ursuline Academy has maintained its
commitment to academic excellence and will
consistently strive to enhance the learning
experience for years to come.
History
The unique value of an Ursuline Academy
education lies in the development of the complete
person − her heart, will and intellect. While
academics are top priority for all students, each is
encouraged to participate in extracurricular
activities that allow for personal growth and
creative expression.
With the support of faculty moderators, the school
sponsors various clubs, activities and athletic
programs designed to foster self-esteem and
discipline. Many of these activities are built into
the school day, and allow students to break away
from the text book for a period of communication
and cooperation.
Ursuline Academy will embrace and encourage co-curricular
activities as a means to engage students and faculty in the inner
spirit of the school as well as in the life lessons, friendships
and educational opportunities created through student life
services and activities.
Ursuline Academy will strive to integrate the physical and
social health of our students though competitive athletic
programs offered within our educational environment
designed to develop well-rounded individuals.
Rationale
Rationale
Ursuline Academy is committed to fostering excellence in the classroom and
beyond. Administrators and faculty are constantly working to improve and
enhance a day in the life of the Ursuline student, so that she may reach her full
potential. An in-depth analysis of life at Ursuline Academy was conducted by
faculty, students and parents who were willing to reveal key features of the
experience that necessitate improvement: student empowerment and leadership,
the college counseling process, atmosphere enhancement, alumnae involvement,
family support, functionality of utilities, student safety, and communication
lines amongst faculty, administrators, students and parents. Colleges are growing
increasingly competitive and seek well-rounded, able leaders to fill the seats of
their freshmen classes. It is crucial for the Ursuline student to build her
confidence and brand her individual talents at an early age, so that she will have
a strong voice as a woman and a leader. To consistently improve life for the
Ursuline students is to provide them with the resources and support they need
to confidently enter the world.
Ursuline was certainly ahead of its time by providing athletic opportunities for
young women; however, there has been a significant increase in the standards
of high school athletics in the past decade. Where once it was commendable to
simply have a program in place, it is now essential for high schools to produce
well-trained, collegiate-worthy athletes. While determination and hard work
must come from the athletes themselves, it is up to the school to provide a
sturdy program by hiring experienced coaches and trainers, improving facilities
and technology and providing necessary equipment and uniforms. The
assessment of various other private, Catholic institutions indicates that
improvements to the athletic program do not need to interfere with the mission
of the school or academics. The ability of a school to offer additional
opportunities which encourage leadership while developing athletic skills is
essential to supporting a diverse student body. The success of an athletic
program is reflected in the consequential success of its student athletes, and
those achievements contribute to the overall reputation of the school. Therefore,
it is important for Ursuline to consistently advance, organize and expand its
competitive athletic program while ensuring the physical and mental health of
the student body.
Our Commitment
With prayerful reflection, we intend to research and explore
to consistently improve and expand online resources to allow for
effective communication between parents, students, faculty and
alumnae.
to enhance/expand classroom space to feature interactive technology
and modern amenities.
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to execute social and/or academic opportunities to facilitate meaningful
relationships with young men from area schools.
to expand and leverage outside facilities to adequately support and
consequently expand athletic programs.
to consider the benefits of institutionalizing funding to support
athletics, while sequentially establishing ways to increase fan/booster
support.
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to create friendly environments where students can socialize and study.
to construct a wellness/athletic complex to benefit all members of the
Ursuline community.
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to make a financial commitment to consistently upgrade technological
and educational tools to meet the highest of academic standards.
With prayerful reflection, we intend to research and explore
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to encourage students who wish to contribute to the effort of
improving student life on campus.
Our Commitment
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While current students are certainly benefiting
from the many opportunities afforded by Ursuline,
there is an ongoing effort to also connect with
alumnae who may be eager to increase
involvement with their alma mater.
H Strategic Initiative IV
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In the spirit of Serviam, students are also
encouraged to devote extra time to community
service initiatives. A select group of students work
as peer ministers and encourage younger students
to deepen their relationships with classmates,
while strengthening their personal faith.
H Strategic Initiative III
to maintain an enduring athletic program by hiring an appropriate
number of experienced coaches and trainers, each of whom is
expected to act as a role model to students.
History
Over three decades ago, the stipulations of Title IX
delineated the standards for athletic programs
across the country and consequently encouraged
numerous high schools to evaluate their
extracurricular opportunities for female students.
With or without federal funding, schools abruptly
modified their programs in the interest of the
students, and to remain competitive. At that time,
Ursuline Academy and many other single-sex
educational establishments were ahead of the
game, as they had no option but to execute
athletic opportunities for interested students.
It was years before Ursuline athletes saw tough
competition, simply because they were fortunate
to have a well established single-sex athletic
program from the start. With teamwork and
individual effort, Ursuline athletes have set school
records and won awards including Boston Globe
Singelais, All-Scholastic Awards and MIAA Team
Academic Excellence and Sportsmanship Awards.
Currently, the school offers five fall sports, three
winter sports and five spring sports for student
athletes of all abilities to enjoy.
History
In accordance with Ursuline tradition, Ursuline
Academy is committed to the development of the
whole person, and therefore recognizes the
importance of nurturing a community in which
students have opportunities to foster unique
talents and interests. For years, the school has
maintained a Fine Arts Program that provides
Music, Dramatic and Visual Arts instruction
through various curricular and extra-curricular
opportunities.
Ursuline Academy hopes to manifest a stronger interest in the
arts delivered through diverse extracurricular opportunities
which are rooted in the arts, designed to encourage students to
discover, develop and demonstrate their talents and interests
as well-rounded, creative individuals.
Ursuline Academy will enhance and expand student learning
opportunities, improve communications throughout its
internal and external communities and maximize productivity
throughout the administration, faculty and staff through a
strategic technology plan that will ensure a state-of-the art
technology environment.
Rationale
Rationale
Ursuline Academy is dedicated to providing a strong curriculum that will equip
each student intellectually and practically to pursue higher education and to
respond confidently to the challenges that lie ahead. Ursuline has certainly
succeeded in this endeavor and is known for developing intelligent and
confident young women who are well-prepared for the challenges of a university
program. However, in examining the current dynamics of higher education, it
is clear that it has evolved to include countless opportunities for young women
to thrive in subjects not necessarily derived from text books. Communications,
dramatic and visual arts, music composition and art history are among the most
popular of majors at even the most distinguished universities, and it is important
for high school students to develop their creative talents early so that they may
have the opportunity to ripen their skill at a higher level. The assessment of
various other private schools reveals that the Fine Arts Program at Ursuline
Academy is competitive; however, there are certain steps that need to be taken
to organize and expand the program to benefit current students while attracting
those creative-minded prospective students. By implementing a department
head and reinventing the program to include a wider array of courses alongside
core programs, students will find opportunities to explore new ideas and flourish
inside the classroom and beyond.
While Ursuline has taken many steps to improve communication and enhance
the classroom experience, there are still many ways to improve. The internal
review of competitive private schools in the Greater Boston area reveals that
technology training has become increasingly prominent in the general
curriculum. Also, it has become essential for faculty members to receive regular
instruction so that they can better serve as leaders. In order for Ursuline
Academy to exceed current standards, a comprehensive technology plan must
be established to ensure the following: an effective communication network for
all constituencies, increased use of communication networks by all, well-trained
faculty who are able to utilize the latest software, improved internet access and
server security, infusion of technology to enhance classroom experience and
creative utilization of space to expand resources.
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to ensure that the appropriate hardware, software and interactive/
multimedia resources are installed and ultimately incorporated into
classroom instruction.
to seek grants from various organizations to ensure that arts programs
are enhanced with adequate resources.
to constantly seek ways to advance technologically, in all areas.
to implement a department head or director to reorganize and expand
the programs that are in place.
to cultivate relationships with area schools to increase participation in
the arts and provide opportunities to form healthy friendships.
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to find or create adequate space to accommodate fine arts programs,
and to outfit these spaces with appropriate resources.
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to ensure that our faculty will continue to receive ongoing
technological instruction, so to remain current.
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to provide faculty with the latest software tools so that they can
more effectively utilize interactive tools in the classroom.
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to consistently improve communication with the entire Ursuline
community by updating/maintaining online communication
portals, such as Edline and UrsulineAcademy.net.
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to expand current course offerings, and perhaps the school day,
to include additional opportunities to foster creative interests.
With prayerful reflection, we intend to research and explore
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With prayerful reflection, we intend to research and explore
Our Commitment
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Our Commitment
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There are many opportunities to play a part in the
arts at Ursuline Academy; however, the attention
awarded to current programs is somewhat limited
and the organization often falls to a restricted
number of willing moderators. The Fine Arts
Program has survived for many years, and there is
now an opportunity to make it thrive.
H Strategic Initiative VI
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Those interested in music are encouraged to join
one of two singing groups, or an instrumental
ensemble. While Visual Arts is available to seventh
and eighth graders weekly, upper school students
are encouraged to take a senior art elective or to
join an extracurricular club. Those interested in
Drama participate in two annual productions, or
exercise similar talents in Dance or Speech Club.
The Humanities Club provides students with an
introduction to the performing arts by inviting
interesting performers with varying talents to
entertain students, as well as organizing outings
to Boston productions.
H Strategic Initiative V
History
Ursuline Academy has taken those crucial steps to
remain technologically competitive, and has
established a working foundation for a technology
plan that will advance the school over the next
decade. The up-to-date computer lab, a feature of
the new science wing, is a place for students to
improve keyboard and design skills. The foreign
language lab allows students to sharpen verbal
and retention skills with the latest interactive
software.
Recently, there has been a push to put educational
technology into the hands of teachers, parents
and students alike. The first step was to introduce
Edline, an online Ursuline community that allows
teachers to post grades, parents to gather
information about their child, and students to find
educational resources provided by teachers.
Faculty members received laptop computers and
hands-on technical support to make for a smooth
transition. Once the teachers were comfortably
connected, interactive white boards were
installed into various classrooms to provide
interesting and interactive content in the
classroom.
In 2008, Ursuline launched a state-of-the-art
website that is maintained on a daily basis,
providing timely information for current parents
and students, connecting alumnae through an
online community and attracting prospective
students with intriguing content.
H Strategic Initiative VII
Ursuline Academy will create and provide attractive, accessible
and competitive facilities to support its enrollment, academic,
athletic and extra-curricular needs through a strategic space
utilization plan supported by capital improvements and
exceptional ongoing maintenance.
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A Call to Action…
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Rationale
History
In 1957, The Ursuline Order acquired a picturesque
twenty-eight acre estate in the quiet back woods
of Dedham, Massachusetts, and built a modest
school to accommodate their students. Just above
the campus sat a beautiful brick mansion, which
the Ursuline Sisters creatively transformed into a
Convent that has remained in pristine condition.
With prayerful reflection, we intend to research and explore
to develop and maintain state-of-the-art facilities which will
effectively support academic, social, athletic and religious life.
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to implement environmentally friendly practices in regard to the daily
up-keep and future creation/expansion of facilities.
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to utilize currently occupied space effectively, while simultaneously
seeking opportunities to renovate/expand to meet long term goals.
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While consistent movements have been made to
maintain the school and grounds, there are now
plans in place to enhance student life through the
reorganization, expansion or improvement of
indoor and outdoor facilities.
Our Commitment
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Since the opening of the school, many have
worked to ensure that the school and grounds
remain aesthetically pleasing and that existing
space be properly utilized to accommodate the
students on campus, and the Sisters at home.
Ursuline Academy’s building and grounds have
always been extremely clean and wellmaintained. While there are certainly not enough
acres to accommodate large or multiple expansion
projects, the school has utilized its space well and
was able to add a state-of-the-art science wing
and additional classroom space in 2002. This
process took a great deal of planning, as it was the
first expansion venture since the school was built;
however, the benefits have outweighed the costs
and many Ursuline students have and will benefit
from the improvement.
It is true that the two long hallways of Ursuline Academy have barely changed
since the first graduating class walked through them. However, it is often said
that one should not fix something that is not broken, and many Ursuline
students take great pride in the history of their school building and its modest
yet inviting appearance. Over the years, changes have been made to the school
that have significantly improved the academic, social and athletic life of the
students without losing the ‘je ne sais quoi’ of the original campus. This fact
alone demonstrates that by prioritizing short and long term needs and following
through, the school will be able to improve in a step by step fashion that will
not disrupt life for students, teachers or the Ursuline sisters. An external review
of competitive private schools reveals that Ursuline is somewhat behind in
technology integration, athletic and performing arts facilities, and perhaps even
multifunctional common spaces. Therefore, the school is working to improve
life for its nearly four hundred students by proactively addressing maintenance
and ground issues, reorganizing classroom and study space, utilizing areas of
the school that are currently not practical and developing a comprehensive site
plan to allow future expansion and improvement of facilities.
to update common spaces, such as the lobby, locker room and senior
lounge to create welcoming and functional environments for students
and guests.
The time has come…
for Ursuline Academy to sustain our superior academic
programs, to nurture and develop our talented and dedicated
faculty and to engage our committed parents and highly
accomplished alumnae community.
It is within our power to secure our place among the best schools
for young women in the country. This plan provides a road map
to guide us toward that goal.
Together, we begin the first steps on that collective journey.
Imagine the possibilities!
Rosann Whiting, President
Mary Jo Gorman Keaney ’82, Principal (2009–)
Sister Mercedes Videira, O.S.U., Principal (1986–2009)
David Putnam, Chairman of the Board
Marianne LeBlanc ’86, Strategic Planning Chair
Ursuline Academy
Inspiring young women to achieve their full potential
85 Lowder Street • Dedham, MA 02026