Saint Patrick School in Pelham, NH Has Closed


 

Saint Patrick School was a private Roman Catholic elementary and middle school in Pelham, New Hampshire. It was established in 1960.

The Saint Patrick School closed in August 2015 due to lack of enrollment for the upcoming school year.

This was the school's website.
Content is from the site's 2014-2015 archived pages.

Saint Patrick Catholic School
16 Main Street
Pelham, NH 03076

 

Welcome to Saint Patrick Catholic School

As a school family, we provide our students with a nurturing, academic environment that leads to respect and responsibility for self and others, while grounding them in our Catholic values and beliefs.

About Our School

Saint Patrick Catholic School is a private Roman Catholic elementary and middle school located in Pelham, New Hampshire. The school serves students in pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade.  Founded in 1960 by Saint Patrick Parish, it was originally called St. Patrick Convent School and was staffed by Sisters of Mercy from nearby Windham, NH for many years.  More lay teachers were gradually employed, and in the early 1990s the school’s name was officially changed to Saint Patrick School.  Today, the school is staffed entirely by state-certified lay personnel.  Saint Patrick Catholic School is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

 

It was so sad when Saint Patrick Catholic School had to close. My close friend's daughter and son had attended the school. I remember when she learned of the school closing. We were at a contemporary Italian furniture showroom in Philidelphia. She had driven down to Philadelphia to attend a wedding and was staying with me. She decided to spend a couple of extra days after the wedding so I could show her some of the most iconic monuments and attractions in the historic part of town such as the The Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall. One afternoon we went to this furniture store to look at contemporary Italian furniture, which she loves. However she received a text message from her daughter telling her that there had been an announcement at school regarding the closing. I remember her sitting down on a Charles leather sectional sofa by Gamma Arredamenti that, I must say, was manificent. Several phone calls later confirmed her daughter's text. We continued looking at all the stunning Italian furniture and lighting options, but I could tell her mind was elsewhere. Although the news was unexpected, the kids did ultimately end up at other decent schools and in the long run the chnage was not life shattering. For the most part, it was a lovely visit and I really enjoyed seeing her, but I will not forget her initial reaction when she learned the news.

 



Admissions Process

As partners in the educational process, we, at SPCS, consider it a privilege to work with parents in the education of children because we believe that parents are the Primary educators. Let your choice of Saint Patrick Catholic School begin a relationship in support of one another (parent and teacher) in helping your child to become the best person he/she is capable of becoming.

 

Admission Information

Nondiscriminatory Policy

St. Patrick Catholic School admits students of any gender, race, color, and national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students of the school.  It does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, or athletic and other school-administered programs.

As openings become available, the following priorities will be used to accept students to St. Patrick Catholic School:

  1. Children who have been enrolled in the previous year and who have paid all previous tuition and fees.
  2. Children of faculty members.
  3. Children who have siblings attending St. Patrick Catholic School.
  4. Children of Alumni of St. Patrick Catholic School.
  5. Children whose parents are registered parishioners at St. Patrick Parish.
  6. Children who have attended our Kindergarten or Pre-K.

Children entering Kindergarten must be five (5) years of age by October 15th.

Children entering Pre-K must be four (4) years of age by October 15th.

At the time of registration, all new students seeking admission to St. Patrick Catholic School are evaluated on the basis of available standardized test scores and report cards.

Requirements include:

  • Verification of active parish affiliation/stewardship
  • Health Records
  • Birth Certificate (original)
  • Baptismal Certificate (Catholic applicants only)
  • Report Cards
  • Standardized Test Results
  • Record of IEP

Students applying for Admission in Grades 1-8 must present a copy of the current report card and standardized test results.  These will be reviewed to determine whether the program at St. Patrick Catholic School will meet the educational needs of the students.  An interview with the student is part of the admission process.

Testing in some academic areas may be held for new incoming students in Grades 3-8.  All new students will be given a 45 day trial period in which to prove himself/herself both socially and academically.  If during this trial period there are any problems, a student may be asked to withdraw his/her attendance at St. Patrick Catholic School.

Non-Catholic students whose parents accept the philosophy of St. Patrick Catholic School will be accepted on a space available basis.

Partners in Education

As partners in the educational process, we, at Saint Patrick Catholic School, consider it a privilege to work with parents in the education of children because we believe that parents are the primary educators of their children.  Therefore, it is your right and your duty to become the primary role models for the development of your child’s life—physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically.   Your choice of St. Patrick Catholic School involves a commitment and exhibits a concern for helping your child to recognize God as the greatest good in his/her life.

Good example is the strongest teacher.  Your personal relationship with God, with each other, and with the Church community will affect the way your child relates to God and others.  At St. Patrick Catholic School, we are committed to supporting parents in their goal to nurture Catholic/Christian morality and to encourage within their children a personal relationship with God.

Together, let us begin this year with a commitment to partnership as we support one another in helping your child to become the best person he/she is capable of becoming.

As partners in the educational process at St. Patrick Catholic School, we ask parents:

To set rules, times, and limits so that your child:

  • arrives at school on time and is picked up on time at the end of the day;
  • is dressed according to the school dress code;
  • completes assignments on time; and
  • has lunch money or nutritional sack lunch every day.

To actively participate in school activities such as Parent-Teacher Conferences;

To notify the school with a written note when the student has been absent or tardy;

To notify the school office of any changes of address or important phone numbers;

To meet all financial obligations to the school;

To inform the school of any special situation regarding the student’s well-being, safety, and health;

To complete and return to school any requested information promptly;

To read school notes and newsletters and to show interest in the student’s total education;

To support the religious and educational goals of the school;

To support and cooperate with the discipline policy of the school;

To treat teachers with respect and courtesy in discussing student problems;

To support our school’s fundraising efforts.

 



Tuition

ST. PATRICK

CATHOLIC SCHOOL TUITION

2014-2015

IMAGE: standardized-achievement-test-results-chart

  • Enroll in the SMART TUITION Management Program.  Payments begin in July and end in June.  Payments are on a 12 month basis.
  • Please note that you may pay in full for one child and utilize SMART TUITION for another.
  • The Registration fee for all students will be due on February 1 for the next school year.
  • Registration fees are NON-REFUNDABLE and do not apply to your tuition.
  • There will be a $25 returned check fee for all checks made payable to St. Patrick Catholic School that do not clear the bank.
  • If you are unable to pay your tuition on time please call the principal or pastor to make alternative payment arrangements.  Please keep us informed.  We will make every effort to work with you if personal issues arise.
  • Unpaid accounts will result in non-registration for the following school year.  Students will not be permitted to begin classes until all outstanding tuition payments have been made.  Grade 8 graduates must meet all financial responsibilities before records will be released and before a student may graduate.
  • SMART TUITION Management Service Overview:
    • There is an annual non-refundable administrative fee for enrollment in the SMART TUITION program per family.  This fee will be added to your tuition collected by SMART TUITION– please do not make this payment to the school.
    • Tuition is structured into 12 monthly payments by automatic deduction due on the 5th or 20th of the month.
    • All families not selecting the SMART TUITION program will be expected to make a direct payment to St. Patrick Catholic School no later than July 1.  This may be dropped off at the school office or mailed.

Withdrawal Policy

  • Families must notify the school in writing if a student is withdrawn from the school.
  • Registered students who withdraw before August 23 are responsible for 1/3 of the full tuition amount.
  • Registered students who withdraw between August 24 and December 21 are responsible for ½ of the full tuition amount.
  • Registered students who withdraw after December 21, 2012 are responsible for the full tuition amount.
  • The school will not forward records for students who withdraw with an outstanding balance.

Fees/Financial Commitments

  • Annual registration fee of $85 is non refundable.
  • Before school program from 7:30 to 8:15 is $5 per family per day.
  • After school program from 3:00 to 6:00 is $50 a child per week. If more than one child in family, $25 for each additional child.
  • The daily rate for the first child is $11 and $6 for each additional child
  • Athletic programs cost is $75 per child
  • Field Trips are extra and are applied on an individual classroom basis.

Qualification to be considered as a Registered Parish Member

  • Be a registered member in a NH Catholic Parish
  • Participate in the life of that parish
  • Meet with the pastor once a year at registration time
  • Contribute financially to the parish through the weekly envelopes in an amount to exceed $300.

 



 

Curriculum Overview

Saint Patrick Catholic School offers a rich and challenging curriculum in the areas of English, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science, Religion, French (Grades 5 – 8), Library, Computer Technology, Physical Education, Art, and Music. Saint Patrick School teachers are state certified, and the curriculum they teach reflects the requirements outlined by the Diocese of Manchester, NH. To view our curriculum brochures, please select from the following links:



 

Athletics

Saint Patrick boys capture runner-up trophy for Tri-County League Soccer 2013

St. Patrick Catholic School has risen to new athletic heights in the past few years…

This fall, our girls soccer team made the Tri-County league playoffs.  Although they lost in the first round, they showed amazing heart and effort throughout the season.

Last spring, many of our track athletes received medals in their respective events.  Our girls softball team also had a strong showing in the league in the Spring of 2014.

In 2013, our boys soccer team finished second overall in the Division 4 Tri-County Soccer League with an impressive 7-1-2 season record. With each opponent they faced, our “Boys of Soccer” rose to the occasion and played heart and soul throughout the entire game, advancing their team into the play-offs. They sailed through the quarter finals and semi-finals with great strength, conviction, and art-of-play. They faced Derryfield (their only loss of the regular season) for the trophy. Although St. Pat’s lost, they came home with the first ever Boys Soccer Tri-County League Runner-Up trophy for our school. History was made!! This season showcased the talents, determination, and dedication of all our athletes and coaches (all volunteers). We wish to thank all our athletes, families, and coaches for all their time and efforts which contributed to such a successful season. GO ST. PAT’S!!

Saint Patrick Catholic School offers interscholastic soccer in the fall season for both boys and girls in grades 5-8. In the Spring, students in those same grades can compete in Boys/Girls Track or Girls Softball. SPCS competes in the Tri-County League’s Class S Division. Please contact Mrs. Lori McDermott, athletic director, for more information. She can be reached via e-mail at lmcdermott@saintpatrickschool.net.

During the Winter sports season, SPCS students can compete in basketball through the Saint Patrick Parish CYO Basketball program.  More information can be found at http://www.stpatricks-pelham.com/feed.php?num=0&news_id=29&feed_id=20 or by contacting Jennifer Nale at jennifernale@yahoo.com.

Saint Patrick Catholic School competes against the following schools in the Tri-County League:

Auburn Village School
Auburn, NH

Boynton Middle School
New Ipswich, NH

Chester Academy
Chester, NH

Derryfield School
Derryfield, NH

Epping Middle School
Epping, NH

Henry W. Moore School
Candia, NH

Saint Joseph Regional Junior High School
Manchester, NH

Sanborn Regional Middle School
Newton, NH

Wilton-Lyndeborough Co-op Junior/Senior High School
Wilton, NH

 

 



 

Standardized Testing

How to Measure the Success of a School

In these days when “high stakes” standardized testing and various forms of classroom assessment are sometimes hotly debated in the public media, school board meetings, and other venues, it is important that those who support Catholic education in New Hampshire understand that we regard such testing as only one measure of success. In our schools, we strive to help each and every student succeed to the best of his or her own ability and capability. We teach problem solving skills certainly, but we also teach the underlying concepts of math and science, literature and social studies, religion and art. We teach our children how to discuss and evaluate ideas and how to apply sometimes challenging concepts to the world in which they live so that they can begin now to live as committed Christian citizens in their communities. A team of dedicated teachers and parents help to create just the right kind of environment for each student to achieve success in our many schools.

We are very proud to announce that our students continue to performance well above the national norm in the Terra Nova Standardized Achievement Test. This Test (published by the CTB – McGraw Hill) is administered in grades two through eight in the spring of each year as part of the Catholic Schools Office’s assessment of the overall curriculum in the diocesan schools. The following graph and table demonstrate the wonderful test results for our students in the spring of 2014.

StandardizedAchievementTestResults 2\\

 

                   

GRADE

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Subtest Score

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reading

75

79

75

78

81

77

82

Language

69

74

74

74

81

80

82

Mathematics

72

74

64

69

74

82

80

               

Supplemental

             

Score

             

Science

73

79

71

73

76

69

75

Social Studies

77

77

77

72

83

77

79

 



 

Faculty and Staff

Dr. Stuart Robertson

Principal

Dr. Robertson became principal of St. Patrick Catholic School in July of 2015. A lifelong resident of Pelham and member of St. Patrick Parish, he brings over 30 years of educational experience to his position. He was a classroom teacher for 23 years, as well as adjunct faculty at both Rivier University and Merrimack College. The last 3 years Dr. Robertson has been a Training and Content Specialist for the international software company QSR International. He has been he recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Teaching and recognized as New Hampshire’s Elementary Mathematics Teacher of the Year. He received a B.A. in both Elementary Education and History and a M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Educational Technology from the University of Lowell, a C.A.G.S in Leadership and Instruction from Rivier, and an Ed.D. in Leadership and Learning from the University of Massachusetts at Lowell.


 

Mrs. Carol Blazon

Administrative Assistant

Carol Blazon has been an administrative assistant to six different principals over the past 27 years at Saint Patrick Catholic School. A member of Saint Patrick Parish for 39 years, she has served as a eucharistic minister, CCD assistant to two directors, CYO cheerleading assistant coach, and “Team Mom.” Most importantly, she has been the Ambassador of Good Will for all who are involved at SPCS.


 

Mrs. June Taleb

Student Activities

Mrs. Taleb offers students a chance to engage in many fun activities. She's especially known for her love of Batman - often seen wearing her Batman Lives! sweatshirt while conducting rehearsals for the Christmas pageant. Her prizes for the annual poetry contest as well as the talent show are always specially chosen Batman sweatshirts themed accordingly, purchased from this Batman sweatshirt store - MoonAtMidnight.com. The annual spring fair is also enlivened by Batman prizes, notably warm Batman hoodies emblazened with the Dark Knight looking out over Gotham. Although discouraged by the administration, many students lovingly refer to her as Batmom.


 

Mrs. Margaret Liotta

Pre-K

Mrs. Liotta is a third-year teacher here at SPCS. She received her bachelor’s degree from Salem State University and her master’s from Leslie University. Her core of studies concentration was in Curriculum and Instruction through the Arts.


 

Ms. Victoria Rapsis

Kindergarten

A first-year teacher at SPCS, Victoria Rapsis arrives with experience in the primary grades.


 

Mrs. Kellie McCann

Grade 1

A first-year teacher at SPCS, Mrs. McCann is no stranger to first grade. Before coming to St. Patrick Catholic School, Kellie taught first grade at St. Jean d’ Arc school in Lowell, MA. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Northeastern and holds a master’s from Rivier University. Prior to teaching, she worked in telecommunication sales and service for 18 years. Mrs. McCann lives in Chelmsford, MA with her husband, Jim, and her 2 children, Michael, and Cortney.


 

Mrs. Carolyn Jedraszek

Grade 2

Although this is Mrs. Jedraszek’s first year as our second grade teacher, she brings with her a strong background in education and many years of experience. She received her bachelor’s degree in education and special education from Fitchburg State College and her master’s degree from the University of Lowell. She has taught 6th grade in Ashby, MA, 3rd grade in Leominser, MA, special education in Lowell, MA, and served as the Director of Education and also as a principal in Lowell, MA. Before taking over our second grade classroom, she served a very valuable role as a long-term substitute teacher at SPCS for the past several years.


 

Mr. Brian Clark

Grade 3/5

Mr. Clark is a fifth-year teacher at SPCS, and has been a parishioner at St. Pat’s for 31 years. Mr. Clark holds a bachelor’s degree in Business and Education, and a master’s degree in Education from Cambridge College. He is certified to teach elementary education in the state of New Hampshire.


 

Mr. Charles Curfman

Grade 3/5

Charles Curfman has been at Saint Patrick Catholic School for fourteen years. His impressive resume includes a bachelor’s degree from Plymouth State College in Business Administratioin and Accounting, where he received the Myrtle L. Grover Endowed Scholarship, the Scott Descoteaux Memorial Scholarship, and the Outstanding Senior Accounting Major Award. He went on to Boston College, where he received his master’s degree in Business Administration and Finance. He earned a second master’s degree in Elementary and General Special Education from Rivier College. Mr. Curfman is certified in Elementary and General Special Education by New Hampshire.


 

Mrs. Lynne Stader

Grade 7, Literature & Writing 6-8

Lynne Stader has been teaching for 38 years, the last 27 years at SPCS. She attended Bowling Green State University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Education and Music. Her vast teaching experience includes teaching Kindergarten at St. Joseph School in Lowell, MA, teaching Music at St. John the Baptist in Michigan, and teaching Language Arts and Social Studies at a public middle school in Ohio. She was the recipient of the NH Society for Technology in Education’s Technology Educator Award in 2000, and is a multi-year honoree in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers. Mrs. Stader was also recognized in 2012 as New Hampshire VFW Teacher of the Year, acknowledging her efforts in citizenship education, fostering patriotism, and student leadership.


 

Mrs. Mary Tryon

Grade 8, Language Arts & Social Studies 6-8, Religion 8

Mary Tryon is the senior member of the staff at SPCS, having served for 33 years. She earned her bachelor’s degree in History and Education from the University of Lowell. She was an integral part of the school’s recent successful accreditation preparation. She is certified to teach social studies by the state of New Hampshire.


 

Mrs. Lori McDermott

Information Technology Coordinator, Computers & Math 7-8

A teacher at SPCS since 2002, Lori McDermott earned her bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Lehigh University and a master’s degree in Computer/Systems Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Mrs. McDermott has her teacher certification from the state of New Hampshire.


 

Mrs. Denise Montminy

French

Denise Montminy, a 23-year veteran at SPCS, earned her degree in Business from Rivier College. A combination of her family’s French Canadian background and courses that she has taken at Rivier College have provided this French teacher with extensive knowledge of the French language. Madame is currenlty pursuing a master’s in Educational Studies at Southern New Hampshire University. While at SPCS, she also has served as coordinator of the school’s ski program. She is certified to teach elementary education through the Diocese of Manchester.


 

Mr. Rick Morgan

Physical Education

Rick Morgan is a first-year teacher here at SPCS. He holds a bachelor’s degree from New England College with a major in physical education, and a minor in coaching. Rick has coached for the past twenty years, and has organized many youth athlete camps and clinics.


 

Mrs. Marianne Lipari

Art

A graduate of St. Mary’s College, Marianne Lipari was an art teacher in the Lincoln public schools, Hudson public schools, and Hollis public schools. Mrs. Lipari has completed graduate course work at both Lesley College and Rivier College. A teacher at SPCS since 1998, Mrs. Lipari is certified in both New Hampshire and Indiana in Art Education.


 

Mrs. Mary Quigley

Music

Mary Quigley is in her first year as the Music Teacher at St. Patrick Catholic School. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music and has been teaching in the classroom for 5 years. She also teaches private lessons on violin, viola, and cello at St. Patrick Catholic School. Mrs. Quigley’s primary instrument is the violin, and she has performed in various orchestras including the Nashua Chamber Orchestra and the Lowell Philharmonic. She enjoys playing with her dog, baking, and playing music with her husband Jordan, who plays the guitar.


 

Mr. Leon Grande

Band/Instrumental Instruction

Mr. Grande served as a music teacher and Supervisor of the Fine and Performing Arts in the Dracut Public School System. He was also the Director of the Marching Band, the Chorus, and is still the Director of the Dracut Town Choral Group. He brings thirty-five years of music education experience to St. Patrick Catholic School.


 

Mrs. Beverly Chiras

Librarian

Mrs. Chiras returns to SPCS as our Librarian after taking time off to help raise her grandchildren.


 

Mrs. Kimberly Michel

Instructional Aid, Religion 7

Kim Michel, a graduate of Saint Patrick Catholic School, is a fourth-year Instructional Aid supporting grades Pre-K, 1 & 2. Mrs. Michel is also a St. Patrick’s parent with 2 sons, Ryan, her oldest son, also an alumni of SPCS, and Cameron, a current student in grade 7. With her constant benevolent attitude, it’s no surprise that Kim has recently joined our After Care team as a co-care provider for the primary grades program.


 

Mrs. Kristen Cunha

Nurse

Nurse Kristen Cunha earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She has been a pediatric registered nurse for the past ten plus years. She has worked in the hospital setting as well as in the pediatrician’s office. She is currently a Certified Pediatric Nurse, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge on pediatric health. She is also a parent of two students at SPCS, Aleena in Kindergarten and Landon in Pre-K.


 

Blaire McCarthy

Guidance Counselor

Mrs. McCarthy comes to St. Pats with a wealth of experience in the areas of Psychology and Sociology. She holds a B.A. in Psychology and Sociology from Merrimack College, and earned her master’s in Counseling and Psychotherapy from Rivier College. In addition to being Guidance Counselor at St. Joseph Regional School in Salem, NH for the past 10 years, Blaire has also performed Per Diem work at the Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester. Being no stranger to parenting, Mrs. McCarthy is the mother of 3 boys. She holds her New Hampshire state certification in Guidance Counseling.

 



Directions

From the North:

Take I-93 heading south to Exit 3. Bear right off the exit. At the 2nd set of lights (farm stand in front of you), take a right onto Rte.111A West. Follow for approx. 4 miles. At the stop sign (Golden Brook School in front of you), take a left continuing on Rte. 111A West for approx. 3 miles. At the blinking light, take a left onto Main Street. The school is the 4th building on the right (The soccer field is behind the school building).

From the South:

Take I-93 North to Exit 2. Take a left off the exit. At the 3rd set of lights, take a left onto Stiles Road. Follow to the end (.8 miles); at the stop sign, take a right onto Route 38 (the Ice Center will be on your right).Follow for 4.4 miles. At the traffic light, turn right onto Main Street in Pelham. Our school is the 2nd building on the left (The soccer field is behind the school building).

From Rt. 3 North:

Take Route 3 heading south to Exit 2. Once on Exit 2, stay in the left lane and follow signs to Hudson – Rte. 3A. Once over the bridge/river, take a right. At the third set of lights, take a left onto Dracut Road. Follow for 1.9 miles. Take a left onto Sherburne Road (follow for 1.9 miles). Turn left at the stop sign. Approximately 100 feet down, take a right onto Route 111A East (Marsh Road). Follow for 2.5 miles. At the stop sign in the center of town, continue straight across the intersection. Take a right onto Main Street at the stop sign. We are the 4th building on the right.

From Route 3 South:

Take Route 3 heading North to Exit 2. Follow directions for “From Rt. 3 North”.

 

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