Monsignor Haddad Students Partner with North Hill Residents for Living Legacies Program

Twenty students from Monsignor Haddad Middle School in Needham spent a recent half day afternoon visiting residents at the Belmont House at North Hill, a senior living community in Needham. Now in it's ninth year, the Living Legacies Partnership is designed to provide a meaningful interaction between the young and old, foster feelings of love and respect for older people, and help young people to understand memory loss without fear. By honoring the individual life and gifts of each Resident, MHMS young men and women deepen their emotional sensitivity and empathy, which directly supports the school mission of accepting social responsibility within the Catholic value system.

Students will meet with the residents four times over the school year to get to know each other and share conversations about legacy and personal values. The program will conclude with group celebration. The next meeting of the new friends will be in December and includes a holiday sing along.

"What a special school you have," commented Karen Prest, the program director from North Hill, to Monsignor Haddad Middle School Principal, Mr. Jay MacDonald. "The most respectful students in the world, and probably getting the best education of any other middle school out there."

Monsignor Haddad Middle school in Needham offers a well-rounded education for young men and women in sixth through eighth grade from 17 communities. Steeped in the Catholic intellectual and spiritual tradition, at Monsignor Haddad Middle School scholarship is valued highly, faith is lived concretely, and the moral life is honored. MHMS is hosting an Information Session on Sunday, November 6 from 4 - 6 p.m. For more information about school and to preregister visit www.saintjoes.com/middle-school or follow MHMS on Twitter @MHMSGators.