Another Exciting Year Ahead for Good Shepherd Academy in Nutley

The Academy, stands tall at the corner of Brookline Avenue and Harrison Street in Nutley, surrounded by Holy Family Church and quaint homes, some of which were the homes of alumni who attended the academy in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.

GSA is not a quiet building during the summer months. Besides “sprucing” up the classrooms and hallways, the auditorium/gym hums with the voices of over 40 youngsters each day participating in the Summer Fun @ GSA program, directed by Mrs. Anita Riccardelli, one of GSA’s faithful first grade teacher. In addition to reviewing math and language arts, the students enjoy crafts, games, and themed activities; such as Aliens and Patriot Weeks.

Under the direction of the GSA middle school’s language arts teacher, Mrs. Cathy Serio and Natelie Samper, class of 2011 valedictorian, the eighth graders are attacking the COOP (Cooperative Admissions Examination Program), in anticipation of high school entrance exams in November, 2014.

In addition to the increase in enrollment for the past two years, the students will also be pioneering an online software program, Renzulli Learning, designed target individual student learning styles, promoting differentiated instruction, in order to strengthen their academic abilities and promote critical thinking. All GSA teachers have participated in three professional training workshops to effectively and efficiently engage the students in a wide variety of activities.

Alumni from St. Mary’s, Holy Family and Good Shepherd are invited to another reunion taking place on Saturday, November 1st at GSA gym. Tickets are currently on sale after masses and will also be available at the alumni booth at the Holy Family Feast, during Sept. 25 - 28. Contact the respective rectories for details.

School bells will ring on Wednesday, September 3 to welcome the new and returning students to the 2014- 2015 Academic Year. We all look forward to a successful and enjoyable year.

Check out our website for more good news! www.gsanutley.org