Down a beautiful old world street in the middle of Greenwich Village in New York City lives a private school with an enormous heart. The type of heart that is inclusive and accepting, that caters to the values and ethics of traditions and beliefs. Where parents and children regularly see each other for dinners and play dates, morning assembly that unite parents and children before the day begins, a place where friendships are made for life.
Board of Trustees: Judy McCool, Michelle-Marie Heinemann, Headmistress Angela Coombs, Amanda Shamis, Neil Edward St. Clair
This private School is The Academy of Saint Joseph and this metaphorical heart translates into a strong School culture, with robust and overlapping interactions among all members of the School community.
Ms. Angela Coombs is the Headmistress and in her 40th year as an educator. She is the driving force behind this positive energy that you can see and feel as soon as you enter the building. It’s evident on the walls, in the students and staff, and in every classroom you visit.
“It has been such a privilege to share in the lives of so many children and their families throughout these years. And even more, to watch these children grow up into the finest of young men and women who are building lives of their own, lives that will impact the world. I have had the great honor to attend College graduations and weddings of former students, to serve as a godparent for the children of former students. I have also attended funerals of parents of my students and shared in that grief with them. There is no question that educators have been given a great responsibility when a parent entrusts the care of his/her child to a School but also the greatest of privileges to share in their living and learning.” Says Ms. Coombs.
It is this cohesive thread of developing strong relationships with the families that make AOSJ so special. Parents want a direct line of communication with the teachers and Head of the School, they want to know that their child will be safe and cared for with respect and encouragement. RJ David, a principal with the Carlyle group says “We chose AOSJ for my son Rylan, because it had the right combination of intimate class sizes, challenging curriculum, diverse tight-knit community and religious values. We believe this unique school environment provides a strong foundation for our son to be a well-rounded, high integrity and academically strong leader for the next generation.”
Strong relationships with other International Schools are equally important as AOSJ teaches on a global level, making children aware of other cultures and environments. Le Rosey, the Swiss Boarding school in Rolle Switzerland recently visited, offering a wonderful opportunity and experience provided by their summer camp, and boarding School in the secondary years.
Jacques Bounin, the admissions director of Le Rosey and dear friends with Michelle-Marie Heinemann, who’s daughter Hyacinth is in third grade at AOSJ discussed and welcomed all members of the AOSJ community to visit his School. “I am thrilled that my daughter loves School, and the closeness the parents share is amazing. We spend so much time together away from the School because we genuinely are an extended family. This is the magic of the School, the warmth and kindness amongst each other, and constant concern, the most amazing School culture.” Says Ms. Heinemann.
In the Spring the AOSJ will offer an upcoming tour of Europe. An exclusive travel abroad opportunity that includes a tour of London and Paris with the focus on the most iconic landmarks. Always a highlight on Spring Break!
SOURCE: EXPLOSION / Nick Guli
