Campus Ministry
The Upper School includes an extensive and popular Campus Ministry program. Students assist in planning, writing, and sharing in faith-filled activities. The entire program includes four programs: worship, social action, reflection, and retreats.

The worship life of the school is reflected in school and class liturgies, opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and Morning Prayer in assembly. Students and the Campus Minister plan the theme, content and music of the liturgies. Priests from nearby parishes and schools are invited to preside at the liturgies.

The Social Action program enables students and faculty members to become involved in service to those in need in the community beyond Stone Ridge. In addition to the weekly program, the Campus Ministry provides additional regular and seasonal opportunities for service. “Fruit and juice” for breakfasts and “snack packs” for dinners are collected and served once a month at So Others Might Eat (S.O.M.E.) soup kitchen. Projects to serve the hungry, homeless, and needy in the area and the world are sponsored as well, particularly during Lent and Advent.

The reflection periods complement the theology program by giving students and faculty a variety of opportunities to experience and express their faith. In addition to liturgies, this time includes prayer, social action reflection, films and speakers relating to peace and justice issues of local, national, or global concern to Christians, as well as exploration of other religious traditions.

An annual day of retreat for all classes and faculty members, and a two-day retreat at an area retreat house for Fourth Academic students, provide time for each student to deepen her knowledge and love of God. The retreats are directed by the Campus Ministry team which collaborates in planning with faculty members. Typical activities include talks, small group discussions, films, and an opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.



College Counseling
The College Counseling program is a comprehensive program providing individual and group counseling to students and their parents. The goal of the program is to help each student identify her personal gifts and strengths in order to select a college that serves her needs, enhances her growth, and prepares her for the future.

Bimonthly college seminars are offered in the spring of the Third Academic year and the fall of the Fourth Academic year to facilitate the process. Assistance is given to the students in many areas encompassing the college selection process: organizing the college search, admissions procedures and interview techniques, PSAT and SAT preparation and testing, and submitting transcripts and teacher and counselor recommendations. Financial aid information and scholarship application procedures are available. Aid is also given to students in identifying possible programs of study in college and career opportunities.

The College Counseling center houses resources for students to gather information independently about colleges. Students also have the opportunity to meet with almost 100 representatives from colleges across the country who visit Stone Ridge each year. Students are encouraged to gain greater access to college information through the Internet.



Personal Counseling
While supporting all Sacred Heart Goals, the Upper School Counseling Department focuses on personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom (Goal V). To that end, the counselor meets with individuals and groups, arranges special programs, and coordinates speakers. The counselor works directly with students who are experiencing academic or emotional challenges, consults with teachers and parents, and provides referrals. The counselor works on a regular basis with the Guidance Committee. The counseling office also coordinates regular teacher meetings by grade level.