by Katie Vasquez
A new era begins at Fontbonne Hall Academy.
The Bay Ridge Catholic High School officially opened the Visitation program, named in honor of the now-closed Visitation Academy.
After more than 100 years of Catholic education, the Brooklyn Visitation Sisters ended their sponsorship of the school earlier this year.
Sister Susan Mary Kasprzak, VHM, the superior of the Brooklyn Visitation Sisters, worried about what would happen to the 85 students enrolled and is happy some of them have found a new home nearby.
“We know that the students, of course, are very disappointed at having to leave their school. so this way, there’s something hopeful for them,” Sister Susan Mary said.
About 25 of the 35 middle school students enrolled are from Visitation. Olivia Shahin says having some of her friends here makes the transition easier.
“I’ve been at Visitation since I was in nursery school, so this is my first time going to a new school, which is pretty exciting,” said Shahin, an eighth-grader.
Fontbonne is also keeping the same curriculum and was able to retain some of the Visitation faculty.
Students like Harley McElroy, a seventh-grader at the school, are excited for the new opportunities.
“I know that they have a really great science program here, which I’m really excited to be a part of. Also with sports, I do dance, so cheer is also something that I’ve always been interested in,” McElroy said.
The principal, Rocco Gentile, says the program is a historic moment for the school.
“Two academies with similar vision, similar mission, really, to empower young women to really to be leaders in the community, compassionate leaders,” Gentile said.
One that gives Visitation students a fresh start.
“Being here is so great. I’m so happy that they were able to accommodate us,” McElroy said.
“I’d be able to enjoy my eighth-grade year,” Shahin said.
While continuing the legacy the Visitation sisters left behind.
“It’s the completion of the educational mission,” Sister Susan Mary said. “But our mission continues. Our mission of prayer never ends.”