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Enrollment Up at Donahue Academy


It was back to school last week for almost 200 students at the Rhodora J. Donahue Academy of Ave Maria.

da122aHeadmaster Dan Guernsey said the school now has 192 students, an increase of more than 30 from last year, and more are still transitioning into the school.

"It's not the increasing numbers, but the great quality of the students and families joining us, that is so encouraging," Dr. Guernsey said. "We have just begun our third year, and it remains both gratifying and humbling to meet so many new families from around the country moving to the Ave Maria community who have been attracted to this school."

Private schools overall in Florida, Dr. Guernsey said, are anticipating an average decline of four percent in enrollment.

Several new faculty and staff members have been added to meet the needs of the expanding program. They include 4th grade teacher Miss Jeniffer Klucinec, 7th grade humanities teacher Mrs. Janet DeLiso, PE teacher Mr. Jim Carletta, Choir teacher Miss Carrie Nolan, Physics teacher Mrs. Denise Chmielowski, new office manager Mrs. Mary Beane, and Sister Joseph Maria and Sister Teresa Benedicta who replaced sisters who were moved to other assignments. .  Dr. Guernsey said the faculty will be working throughout this year preparing for an accreditation visit next fall from the Florida Council of Independent Schools.

In addition to new academic classes this year, Dr. Guernsey said the school has added a Latin Mass (Novus Ordo) on Wednesday mornings. The Academy has Mass every school morning at 8am with the public invited to attend.

A new sports program also is starting up -- full contact 6-on-6 football at the JV and Varsity Levels. The school is still accepting enrollment for this year. Information is at the school's website here or by calling 239-280-2450.

 

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