Students say “Benvenuto!” to Italian and New Ways to Learn Christian Virtues

 St. Bartholomew Academy students in grades Kindergarten through 8th are excited to be introduced to a new world language this year.  While learning Italian, our students will gain a broader understanding of the global culture in which we live and become familiar with another language.  The students’ new teacher, Ms. Madeline Malgierri, will introduce them to the language, the culture, and the history of Italy.  Ms. Malgierri grew up the child of Italian immigrants in Elizabeth, NJ.  She earned her Masters in Italian from the University of Florence, and has over 35 years of teaching experience both in America and Italy.  The students have embraced the language with enthusiasm, and the lower grades have already learned to sing “Ring-A-Round-the Rosie” in Italian.

Also, in an effort to continue fostering a positive school environment, teachers and students are participating in the Virtue-Based Restorative Discipline program.  This program is designed to teach students about the Christian virtues, learn more about them, and live them. The program will teach our students how to repair relationships that may have been harmed by disruptive behavior.  Throughout the school day, students will participate in “virtue” meetings, during which each student will have the opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns, and learn how each virtue relates to their behavior.  Misbehavior will be addressed immediately with a prayerful focus on virtues, resolution of issues, consequences, and repairing relationships. Ultimately, this program seeks to form a culture of understanding and peace. 

 Each month a different virtue will be explored.  In October, the school will participate in a service project each month associated with the virtue being studied.  In recognition of the virtue ‘Faith,’ the students will be collecting items for St. Joseph Social Services.  

For more information about St. Bartholomew Academy please visit our website: http://www.stbacademy.org/