BPJ ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES Blessed Pope John XXIII Academy provides a variety of enrichment activities - altar server training, group and individual music lessons, karate, yoga, soccer, baseball, basketball, cheerleading, scouting, forensics, the Ecology Club, as well as a unique Talented and Gifted (TAG) program, directed by our curriculum supervisor Mrs. Margaret McNamara. In the article below, Mrs. McNamara recalls the TAG experience for SY 2006-2007: As the school year ends, I look back to the experiences I had as advisor to the students in the TAG Program and the experiences and opportunities the students had to express themselves as being a member of the program. I met with the students in grades three to eight once a week to discuss and prepare their projects and reports. Most of the work was completed during the designated time in each grade. At the conclusion of every project, the students had a celebration with refreshments in the lunchtorium. The year began with preparation for a Wax Museum. All learned and presented a report about a famous person. The students dressed representing the person in their report and gave a presentation at the Home School Association Meeting. During the second marking period, the TAG students each wrote and illustrated a book which were placed in the BPJ library for other students to read. The books were also displayed at the HSA meeting. The students received many positive compliments for the books. The first BPJ Today Newspaper was compiled by the students. Much work and proofreading went into preparing the newspaper. The newspaper contained stories, puzzles, riddles, and even recipes. Finally, the students planned an International Buffet Dinner Night which was held on May 30. The dinner was attended by the TAG students, their families, friends, Mrs. Wright, Fr. Vinch, Fr. Ivoy, Mrs. Rametta, and some teachers. The students prepared a report about the country of their ethnic background and the lunchtorium was decorated with flags from 16 different countries. The families of the students prepared delicious foods from their native country and many guests were dressed in native clothes. Fr. Ivory led us in Grace Before Meals, Fr. Vinh spoke about his immigration from Vietnam, and Mrs. McPherson spoke about her immigration from Cuba. The stories were very inspiring and interesting. Thanks to all who prepared food, spoke, or participated for this evening. A wonderful time was had by all! Lastly, I want to thank the TAG students for their cooperation during the year. Without these students the program would not have been a success. - Mrs. McNamara