As the school year has progressed, we have begun to notice the “Striving Together to Solve Problems that Matter” theme taking form at BSM. While only in its early stages, we, as a staff, would like to offer our voice and insight, to ensure that the developing mantra is something that truly captures the essence of BSM.

We find it imperative that the campaign focuses on what our school actually does and the education that our students receive. BSM offers a number of justice-oriented classes and clubs, where students have the opportunity to openly discuss and act on problems that matter. BSM students donate countless hours to service, and do emerge as leaders in the community around them. Success stories unfold from BSM frequently, and we hope that this campaign will recognize and celebrate these achievements.

The collective student body does an excellent job of supporting individuals who strive to solve problems that matter. The theater department and Students for Human Life teamed up to bring in Sister Helen Prejean to discuss the ramifications of the death penalty. Dan Lundberg (BSM ‘12) kickstarted an organization to help disabled children in Africa. Last year, two students formed BSM’s first Justice Club, and this year, the club is involved with education and advocacy surrounding the School-to-Prison Pipeline. The engineering department dedicated an immense amount of time and energy into H2OPE––a project for purifying water in developing countries. We, here and now, are striving together to solve problems that matter.

It’s not just these real life problems we’ve worked on that make BSM what it is, there are other things that make our school stand out. BSM is not a leader in the region because of what we do, but rather because of who we are.

It is our vision to see this campaign embrace BSM for what it truly is––a vibrant Catholic community brought to life through valuing students. We don’t want BSM to be radically changed, and we don’t want to lose sight of what actually differentiates us.

BSM has fostered a culture of inquiry and critical thinking. Students are encouraged to voice their opinions in religion class, and stand up for what they believe in. Productive discussion is not shut down, and ideas are allowed to flourish. Individual students are encouraged to promote causes they’re passionate about, with the support of the school community at their backs. This is what makes BSM the inclusive community it is.

BSM’s faculty, staff, and administration are second to none, and are genuinely passionate for the work they do and the students that they teach. We, as students, are valued as individuals, and through valuing the individual as a unique human being with gifts and talents, strengths with weaknesses, a vibrant learning community comes to life.

Our teachers make countless efforts to support us and ensure that we actually achieve success. At BSM, if you need help with your math homework, you can count on finding your teacher in his or her room as early as 7:00 a.m., ready to help students. Teachers at BSM want their students to succeed both in and out of the classroom, and take the time to value each student as an individual, so that each student can grow both academically and personally. This is BSM. This is what sets us apart. This is our school’s selling point.