Saint Xavier University and Saint Margaret of Scotland School partner for progress

Chicago (Dec. 13, 2007) – Saint Xavier University and Saint Margaret of Scotland School enjoy a special relationship. Under the direction of SXU’s Catholic Elementary School Initiative funded by Richard H. Driehaus, faculty, staff, and administration of both schools collaborate in a program dedicated to enriching the educational experience.

The initiative includes an expansive list of interactions. Faculty from SXU’s Graham School of Business are working with administrators at St. Margaret to review budget and fiscal procedures and to establish strategic plans for marketing and development. Faculty from the SXU’s School of Education have been working with St. Margaret of Scotland faculty in a comprehensive program of professional development.

On Nov. 30, 67 St. Margaret fourth and fifth graders enjoyed a field trip focused on health and fitness sponsored by the SXU School of Nursing and the University’s athletic facility, the Shannon Center. The students enjoyed working with nursing students and listening to the heartbeat of the electronic mannequin used for simulated practice.

At the Shannon Center, where the games stressed the connection between fitness, healthy eating and the fun of participating in physical activities, SXU students responded to questions. The field trip also included a tour of the campus so that students saw first hand the excitement and diversity of campus life. Fifth grade teacher Mrs. Leyden said, “Our partnership has opened many doors for our students. The interaction with our students will not be forgotten.”
That evening, 200 St. Margaret students and parents attended a family reading night at the school.

One parent commented: “It was great for the family to come together and spend time learning new activities to do at home.”

Research shows that students who formulate goals for college and careers by junior high school are more successful because they avoid decisions in high school that can complicate furthering their education. The field trips are designed to promote college as a goal and establish relationships between students of both schools.

“A true partnership involves respect for the contributions of both partners,” said SXU School of Education Dean Beverly Gulley. “The partnership between Saint Xavier University and St. Margaret of Scotland School recognizes that meaningful improvement in education combines the foundation of research and theory with the wisdom of practice. Lessons learned through the initiative can be applied to other schools and direct pedagogical research. But perhaps the most significant effects of the partnership will be seen in years to come as the faculty and students from both schools use their experiences to chart better lives for themselves and their communities.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION:Contact Joe Moore773-298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu

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