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Located in the heart of Illinois, just a stone’s throw away from the vibrant metropolis of Chicago, Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart is more than just a school; Woodlands is a sanctuary for flourishing. Rooted in the rich traditions of the Sacred Heart, Woodlands Academy offers young girls a world-class education and a transformative journey towards becoming empowered global citizens. Driven by a commitment to nurturing courage and confidence, the Academy fosters an environment where students are encouraged to explore, excel, and embrace their unique talents and passions. Three thriving learners have stories to prove it.
Source: Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart
Raisa Clare D.
Born in the Philippines and raised in Saudi Arabia, Raisa Clare D. and her family’s decision to send her to the US was based on tradition and glowing reviews. “Where I live, it is part of the culture to send your children to boarding school after 8th or 9th grade,” she explains. “We knew someone who went to Woodlands Academy for boarding school, so my parents decided it would be best to send me here.”
Their instincts were spot on. Here, their daughter found her life’s calling. “My whole life path was discovered at Woodlands Academy,” she shares. “My junior year, participating in a research study with Argonne National Laboratory solidified my desire to be a chemist.”
The engaging and impactful teaching methods at Woodlands Academy helped her realize this, too. STEM classes are highly experiential — an approach that keeps Raisa and her peers fully engaged. For example, engineering lessons are predominantly project-based however much or little time students spend putting knowledge into practice is entirely up to them.
“One of the best parts of going here is how much control we have over our schedules,” explains Raisa. “They really do encourage us to take the classes we are interested in, and they challenge us depending on the level in which we take them.” With aspirations to pursue a master’s and Ph.D. before eventually becoming a researcher, Raisa is poised to continue thriving and making a meaningful impact in her field of study.
Source: Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart
Evelyn S.
Evelyn S.’s journey from the Southwest Side of Chicago to the Academy was one she describes as “serendipitous”, sparked by chance encounter with the school’s admissions representative during an 8th high school fair. “I was blown away by her warm and welcoming demeanor,” reminisces the student, who instantly knew Woodlands was the place for her.
Her time at the school has been marked by academic excellence and active involvement in various extracurricular activities. “My favorite classes at WA so far have been Freshman Literature and Composition, AP European History, and Honors Chemistry,” she reveals. With a passion for sports and music, Evelyn has immersed herself in varsity volleyball and softball, as well as orchestra.
Of course, she’s never been expected to balance it all alone. Evelyn is extremely grateful for the guidance and resources provided by her dedicated teachers — plenty of whom prioritize engaging students with real-world applications and opportunities for hands-on learning. “A goal of mine is to become fluent in Spanish,” she explains. “The Office of Global Studies at Woodlands Academy has helped me with this goal by guiding me in organizing a student exchange to Madrid, Spain.” There, she spent almost three weeks immersed in the language and culture.
Looking ahead, Evelyn envisions herself majoring in international relations, economics, or urban studies, with the aim of serving as a career diplomat at the US State Department. With elective offerings like Global Issues and AP US Government, Woodlands Academy provides the exposure and resources required for students like Evelyn to pursue their passions.
Source: Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart
Avery D.
Fate led Avery D., a native of Winnetka, IL, to Woodlands Academy. “I got a flier in the mail in 7th grade that said, ‘Empowered Girls Change the World,'” Avery recalls. “I wanted to be in a small class environment that was built with the goal of supporting girls. Therefore, I decided to go to Woodlands and didn’t turn back.”
It was everything she thought it would be and more. Here, classrooms feel like home, and students are encouraged to challenge themselves. Avery’s favorite classes, AP United States History and AP Calculus BC, seamlessly connect historical events to current issues.
Most importantly, Woodlands’ empowering environment has nurtured Avery’s confidence as a female student. Surrounded by strong female role models and opportunities for leadership, Avery feels empowered to pursue her passions and challenge stereotypes. “In every STEM classroom, there are multiple posters of women in STEM fields,” she notes. “Now, the default ‘scientist’ in my head is a woman!”
Outside the classroom, activities like Scholastic Bowl and volleyball have helped Avery discover new passions and strengths. “Being in a small extracurricular environment has given me confidence that I can learn new things and have multiple strengths,” she says.
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