Green Envelope

Good afternoon everyone,

I wanted to share some upcoming plans with you, along with a vision of where I believe RCS is headed.

1. Catholic Identity

Our Catholic identity defines who we are. It must remain at the center of everything we do. This includes continuing weekly Mass, increasing opportunities for Adoration and the Rosary, and living our faith through service—such as food and clothing drives and outreach to those in need. These practices are fundamental expressions of our faith and send a strong message to our students, families, and prospective families about who we are as a school community.

2. Technology and Science (STREAM)

There is a significant need to strengthen our science and technology offerings—not by increasing passive screen time, but by fostering creativity, hands-on learning, and critical thinking.

Our goals include the addition of:

• Vernier Scientific Equipment: Handheld data-collection tools to enhance science and STEM instruction through robust, hands-on experimentation. Students can collect, analyze, and interpret real data in meaningful ways. Vernier Scientific
• 3D Printers and 3D Pens (STREAM): Expanding student engagement in Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, and Math by transforming abstract concepts into tangible projects. This fosters creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. 3D printing 3D pends in Education
• Robotics (PreK–8): Age-appropriate coding and robotics programs that build critical thinking, perseverance, and problem-solving skills through trial-and-error learning. Robotics in STEM
• Aerial Drones: Drones equipped with a gimbal system, camera, and data-collection capabilities will allow students to experiment, gather information, and analyze results. Data can be downloaded to Chromebooks and integrated with Vernier software. Video footage can also be used for demonstrations and student presentations. Drones in Education

These initiatives position us as forward-thinking while remaining rooted in hands-on, experiential learning.

A Generous Gift and Next Steps

I am grateful to share that we have received a generous donation of $25,000 to begin implementing this vision. As a result, we have already purchased:

• Two 3D printers and filament
• Twenty-five coding robots
• Thirty-five 3D pens and filament
• Nearly $6,000 in Vernier scientific equipment

Before rolling out these initiatives, we will provide professional development for Mrs. Kiniry, who will serve as the point person for our STREAM program. Our goal is to begin integrating Vernier equipment into science classes soon so we can highlight student engagement and share our progress through social media and marketing efforts.

The use of 3D pens, drones, or Vernier scientific software, combined with our strong Catholic identity, positions RCS as a school of distinction—a destination school for families seeking both faith formation and innovative academic opportunities.

Looking ahead, I hope we can explore cross-curricular projects that promote collaboration among students and teachers. Imagine students completing oral or multimedia presentations enhanced with 3D modeling, integrated across Language Arts, Art, Religion, Social Studies, Math, and Science—graded as a comprehensive interdisciplinary project. These types of initiatives foster deeper learning and teamwork.

3. RCS Resource Center

RCS is one of only two Catholic schools in the Diocese of Camden with a dedicated resource center. This distinction makes us especially marketable and positions us as a leader in supporting diverse learners within our diocese.

We are deeply committed to our resource program and recognize the vital role it plays in serving our students and families. We plan not only to continue this program, but to thoughtfully expand it in order to meet growing needs and further strengthen our academic support services.

The Resource Program is designed to assist students who are struggling in specific subject areas, providing them with the tools and strategies needed to master skills and successfully return to the classroom environment. Some students may need more time than others, but the goal is skill development and independence. I also look forward to continued conversations with Mrs. Stefano, our guidance counselor, about supporting students’ confidence and reducing anxiety in the classroom and when transitioning out of the Resource Program.

Thank you for taking the time to read this lengthy message. I sincerely hope you will continue to be an integral part of this vision for Resurrection Catholic School. I am grateful for your dedication and continued hard work.

God Bless,

John W. Keeley-Principal