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Our Sisters' School is off to a tremendous start. Two years ago the concept of an independent middle school to serve the inner-city girls of New Bedford was a vague dream. One year ago it was an evolving hope. Today it is a thrilling reality. The hard work and inspiring leadership provided by an incredible board, and the countless hours put in by committee members, staff and volunteers, have come together to produce a unique and enriching academic environment in which the girls of OSS have clearly thrived.
Many factors have contributed to this success. The teachers of OSS -- art and lead teachers, mentors and tutors -- have been remarkable in their tireless efforts. Outreach to the community has been outstanding. The students have learned from and about the community; the community has learned from and about the students. Partnerships have been numerous and productive, and will continue.
At the beginning of June, during his widely-praised speech in Cairo, President Obama issued a call to arms to the entire world. “Education,” he proclaimed, “will be the most important resource for the 21st century.” If the President is right -- and we certainly believe that he is -- then clearly OSS has been doing its part. The entire school community -- hard-working trustees, inspiring Americorp teachers, dedicated staff, committee members and volunteers -- all have worked together to support our underlying mission: to educate and inspire middle-school girls from the Greater New Bedford area to reach their full potential in a safe, supportive and challenging environment.
While we have made great strides, our needs also remain great. In the fall, as our current students advance to the next grade level, we will welcome 15 new 5th graders and OSS will grow from 26 students overall to 45 students. The majority of our funds, as you know, come from independent giving, grants and foundations. Although the support received during our first year was extraordinary -- thanks to one and all! -- we continue to need your help.
On the bright side, OSS is fortunate to have an “angel” who has agreed to match every dollar raised by 50 percent in 2009. This is a huge incentive for us all as we work toward securing our operating budget of $650,000 and our sustainability fund of $3,000,000. Although these goals sometimes seem daunting, generous people throughout the community continue to demonstrate their belief in the great work being done for (and by!) our girls. One need only visit the school -- take a tour with one of the girls; participate in our morning speaker program -- to experience the magic of the educational process and the excitement OSS has spread throughout the New Bedford community and surrounding areas.
Our “sister sailors” are at their stations. Our “ship” is ready to sail. We invite you all to come aboard for the voyage!
You may make a donation online or download the attached OSS Pledge Form and return it to the school. As an alternative, you may prefer to consider an item on our Wish List.
No gift is too large or too small. We thank you once again for your interest and generosity. Please feel free to contact us at bhickey@oursistersschool.org to obtain more information. Better yet, come to the school yourselves for a guided tour.
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