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Established in 1997 as an alternative school for girls
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Designed to break the cycle of poverty within families in Asbury Park by empowering the young women through value-based education
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Students accepted without regard for race or creed
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Based on the proven Jesuit "Nativity School" model
- Accepts academically capable students
- Limited class size of 15 students per grade
- Focus on middle school grades 5 - 8
- Provides highly structured learning and social environment
- Offers social counseling and mentoring support
- Emphasizes significant individual interaction with students
- Program requires parental or guardian involvement
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Enrollment has grown from first class of 15 students in 1997 to its present-day potential roster of a maximum of 60 students
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Many SA graduates return to assist with after-school activities such as fencing, physical education, basketball and tutoring
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Originally established in abandoned parish youth center with the subsequent addition of two temporary trailers
In its twelfth year, Sisters Academy has proven the value of this alternative school for Asbury Park's young women. Graduates have excelled in local high schools and are now role models in their colleges, communities and families.
While successful in its mission, Sisters Academy has been challenged by its space limitations. The permanent new SA will allow the commitment to education of young women and breaking the cycle of poverty to continue.
Thus, the Sisters Academy Capital Campaign was begun 5 years ago to raise $4 million to purchase the present youth center and land needed to build the new Sisters Academy, which is now under construction.