Families find at OLQA a tradition of excellence, a productive and joyful school culture, and partner in nurturing young people who have the knowledge and virtues they need to thrive.
Our School
OLQA prides itself on creating an inclusive environment that respects and celebrates diversity. We offer excellent academics in a safe environment and a values-based education that encourages our students to use their talents in the service of others.
We seek to partner with families to foster a strong school community that promotes mutual respect, personal responsibility, and service to others. We strive to empower our students to strengthen their faith, develop their talents and abilities, and embrace a life-long passion for learning. We do so to prepare them to become successful, contributing members of their local and global communities.
Core Values
Established by faith-filled leaders, OLQA has anchored its East Harlem community for generations.
At OLQA, as in all Partnership Schools, we embrace four core values that guide all we do: integrity, humility, hard work, and service.
Integrity
I watch what I do to see what I believe.
– Sr. Helen Prejean, CSJ
Integrity means that our actions reflect our beliefs and live up to our moral ideals. We hold all in our communities to the highest academic and ethical standards, both within the walls of our school buildings and as representatives in our communities. As we equip our students with a clear understanding of the moral principles and virtues of the Catholic faith, we instill habits of honesty, forthrightness, and respect for themselves and others.
Humility
Those who humble themselves will be exalted.
– Luke 14:11
Integrity means that our actions reflect our beliefs and live up to our moral ideals. We hold all in our communities to the highest academic and ethical standards, both within the walls of our school buildings and as representatives in our communities. As we equip our students with a clear understanding of the moral principles and virtues of the Catholic faith, we instill habits of honesty, forthrightness, and respect for themselves and others.
Hard Work
If there is no struggle, there is no progress.
– Frederick Douglass
Each of us is made uniquely by God for greatness. In order to fully develop the gifts God gave us, hard work provides opportunities for us to sharpen our skills, develop our talents, and strengthen our minds and hearts for life’s journey. Effort, persistence, and determination are essential to learning and success in life. Hope alone does not result in success; we seek to instill in our students a work ethic marked by tenacity, stamina, and zeal.
Service
Only a life lived for others is worthwhile.
– Albert Einstein
At Partnership Schools, we believe that we are made for each other, so we aim to develop young men and women for others. When we see God in others, we think less of ourselves and so put others first. Our teachers “fan into a flame the gifts God gave” each child (2 Timothy 1), cultivating their gifts, broadening their understanding of the community and the world, and offering their gifts in service of our local neighborhood.
Root Beliefs
At OLQA, our community embraces the following set of root beliefs that guide our actions, our words, and our decisions. These beliefs inform each aspect of our school—our policies, procedures, rituals, routines, relationships, and even the physical spaces.
- We put children and learning first.
- Children are reflections of God.
- Learning is sacred.
Leadership
A team of dedicated leaders support OLQA’s students, families, and staff every day.
James Sayer, Principal
james.sayer@olqaeastharlem.org
Melissa Nieves, Academic Dean
mnieves@olqaeastharlem.org
Dobrina Carrara, Director of School Operations