BELEN JESUIT

PREPARATORY SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE 2011 - 2012

500 SW 127 AVENUE | MIAMI, FL | WWW.BELENJESUIT.ORG

BELEN JESUIT

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

OPEN HOUSE OCTOBER 15, 2011

Rev. Pedro A. Suarez, S.J., Ph.D., President Rev. Guillermo M. Garcia-Tunon, S.J., Ed.D., Principal Rev. Christian Saenz, S.J., School Chaplain Ms. Carola Calderin, Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Thomas de Quesada, Dean of Students Mrs. Beatriz L. Jimenez, Assistant Principal for Middle School Mr. Jose E. Roca, Assistant Principal for High School Rev. Ernesto F. Travieso, S.J., Ph.D., VP of Development & Alumni Relations Mrs. Carol Ann Vila, Director of Technology Dr. Brian Wentzel, Psy.D., Director of Admissions

Dear parents and friends, Welcome to Belen Jesuits 2011 Open House! We wish you a pleasant and informative visit. Please, feel free to ask any questions from our staff and students. They will be more than happy to answer your questions to your satisfaction and give you a glimpse of what Belen is all about. Our school has a long tradition that started in Miami fifty years ago and in Havana, Cuba in 1854. We have formed young men for many generations in the style of St. Ignatius of Loyola, who taught us to seek God in all things and become men for others, concerned and caring human beings as Christ was, committed to their faith, with a keen sense of justice and who live according to the highest ethical principles. Belens motto Docete omnes gentes (Teach all the people) indicates our openness to reach out to talented youth who are willing to learn, regardless of race, nationality, social status or religious preference. We thank you for considering Belen as the school for your sons. I look forward to welcoming you to the Belen family and to share with you our vision of a rewarding and grace-filled educational experience. Sincerely yours in the Lord,

Pedro A. Suarez, S.J., Ph.D. President

Dear Friends, Welcome to the Belen Open House. I thank you for giving us an opportunity to show you what Belen Jesuit is all about and what we have to offer the young men of our community. For over 150 years our school has been forming young men to be Christian leaders in a society that every day needs more and more of them. As we celebrate 50 years in Miami this year, we are happy to extend to you a sincere welcome and ask that if you have any questions feel free to address them to any of the teachers, students, or staff members present. We look forward to your visit and hope that you enjoy the day. God bless,

Guillermo M. Garca-Tun, S.J., Ed.D. Principal

Dear Prospective Student and Parents: Welcome to the 2011 Belen Jesuit Preparatory School Open House! Todays program includes a student-lead tour of our campus, a presentation outlining our academic and campus ministry programs and a chance to acquaint yourselves with the many athletic and club opportunities offered to students. I encourage you to stop and ask the students in the blue blazers any questions about their experiences at Belen Jesuit. These fine young men are the true ambassadors of Belen Jesuit Preparatory School and represent what this school is all about. For decades we have been able to boast about our 100% college acceptance rate. Our curriculum is designed to prepare the student for the rigors of college. As our alumni can attest, Belen Jesuits academic program makes the transition from high school to college much easier. As such, the academic experience of a Belen student is challenging. It is the goal of the Admissions Department to select those students who are able and willing to accept this challenge. Admission to Belen Jesuit is highly selective, so I encourage the student to work exceptionally hard this semester and try to obtain the best grades possible. As we celebrate our 50th year in Miami we are exceedingly proud of our alumnis many contributions to the community. One of the hallmarks of being a Belen Jesuit graduate is the inclusion into the unique band of brothers, which ties the graduate to a network of Jesuit alumni all over the world, in all walks of life, for life. It is my hope that you will soon be a part of the Belen Jesuit Community. Sincerely,

Brian J. Wentzel, Psy.D. Director of Admissions

TABLE OF CONTENTS

mission statement the school admissions policy & criteria entrance exam tuition & fees academics & advanced placement student council & clubs honor societies & athletics campus ministry school counseling college counseling graduate at graduation development technology ramon guiteras memorial library facilities departmental highlights quick facts

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 17 18 19 21 22 23 24 26 35

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MISSION STATEMENT

CORE VALUES Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam: to work as a community for the greater glory of God Magis: to strive to do more in sharing the Gospel values, learning, and serving Cura Personalis: to care for the entire person CORE PURPOSE To educate in the Jesuit tradition MISSION STATEMENT Following the Ignatian tradition of excellence, the mission of Belen Jesuit Preparatory School is to guide and support our students in their process of becoming men who are skilled in both English and Spanish, open to growth, intellectually competent, religious, loving, and committed to doing justice, so they can work for the promotion of the Catholic faith as leaders in a multicultural society. JESUIT EDUCATION The Society of Jesus is the largest Roman Catholic religious order, founded by Saint Ignatius of Loyola in 1540. The objective of the order is to study, in the manner of the Spiritual Exercises, what Christ would have done, if He were living in our circumstances, and to carry out that ideal, hence, the motto of the Society, Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam. Many religious distinguished themselves as educators before the Jesuits; but the Society was the first order which enjoined by its very Constitutions, devotion to the cause of education. It was, in this sense, the first teaching order. The ideal of Jesuit education is the well-rounded person who is intellectually competent, open to growth, religious, loving, and committed to doing justice in generous service to the people of God. We aim to form leaders in service, in imitation of Jesus Christ, men and women of competence, conscience and compassionate commitment. Today, there are 177 Jesuit universities and 356 Jesuit high schools world-wide.

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THE SCHOOL

THE SCHOOL Belen Jesuit Preparatory School was founded in 1854 in Havana, Cuba by Queen Isabel II of Spain. The task of educating students was assigned to the priests and brothers of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), whose teaching tradition is synonymous with academic excellence and spiritual discipline. In 1961, the new political regime of Cuba confiscated the school property and expelled the Jesuit faculty. The School was re-established in Miami that same year, and over the next decade, continued to grow. Today, the school sits on a 30-acre site in western Dade County, only minutes away from downtown Miami. Students enjoy the rich cultural diversity of a major metropolitan community as well as Miamis beautiful weather and beaches. Since its inception, over 5000 young men have graduated from Belen Jesuit Preparatory School. We are a college preparatory institution, with 100% of our graduates advancing to post-secondary education. ACCREDITATION Belen Jesuit Preparatory School is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The School is also affiliated with the National Catholic Educational Association and is a member of the Jesuit Secondary Education Association and Jesuit High School College Counselors Association. QUICK FACTS Established: 1854 Religious Affiliation: Catholic Students: 1,485 Grades: 6-12 Mascot: Wolverine Motto: Men for Others

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ADMISSIONS POLICY & CRITERIA

ADMISSIONS POLICY Belen Jesuit admits students without regard to race, religion, color, national or ethnic origin. As a Catholic college preparatory school in the Jesuit tradition, Belen Jesuit actively seeks a student body that represents a broad and diverse variety of abilities, talents, backgrounds, and interests. ADMISSIONS CRITERIA Admission to Belen Jesuit is selective. Admission is based upon the following criteria: APPLICATION Entrance examination score Current school record Interview in certain situations HOW TO APPLY All applicants must complete our online application for admissions (www.belenjesuit. org/applyonline) and take the Belen Jesuit entrance exam. The application process begins in the fall. The application fee of $60.00 includes the cost of test administration and lunch.
For additional information or questions regarding the admissions process, visit our website, www.belenjesuit.org, or contact the admissions office at 786.621.4032 or admissions@belenjesuit.org.

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ENTRANCE EXAM

ENTRANCE EXAM 2011 Entrance Exam Dates: Saturday December 3, 2011 (For Grades 6, 7, and 8 ONLY) Saturday January 28, 2012 (For Grades 6 to 9)*
Time: Starts promptly at 8:30 a.m. Ends at approximately 2:00 p.m. The examination tests: Reading comprehension Language art skills (including a writing sample) Mathematics Fee: $60.00 which is paid online upon submission of the online application. Pre-registration for the exam is required and can be completed online at www.belenjesuit.org/applyonline. Exam confirmations are mailed one week prior to the exam. Students can only take the exam once. * Parents are encouraged to apply early. Admission to some grades may be closed by this time.

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TUITION & FEES

TUITION AND FEES 2011-2012 School Year Tuition: $12,000.00 Activities Fee: $450.00 Registration Fee: $350.00 (Non-refundable)
2012-2013 School Year TBA An all-you-can-eat lunch is included in the tuition. The activities fee covers: standardized testing, student identification cards, computer lab fees, science lab fees, data processing, yearbooks, and student accident insurance. Additional expenses include books and uniforms.

FINANCIAL AID It is our goal to provide every deserving student, regardless of circumstances, a Belen Jesuit education. Last year, Belen Jesuit provided over $1.8 million in financial aid to 22% of its students. Financial Aid is available to all students and is based strictly on need. Belen Jesuit does not award academic or athletic scholarships.
In order to apply for financial aid, students must have been already admitted to Belen Jesuit and registered. Families must request a financial aid application and must submit the application by April 30, 2012. For more information, contact Mrs. Ana Manrara at amanrara@belenjesuit.org or 786.621.4110.

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ACADEMICS

ACADEMICS A full course catalogue by department can be viewed on our website at www.belenjesuit.org. Middle School Requirements English 4.0 credits Computer 0.5 credit Humanities 1.0 credit Mathematics 3.0 credits Physical Education 1.5 credits Science 3.0 credits Spanish 3.5 credits Social Studies 1.5 credits Theology 3.0 credits High School Requirements English 4.0 credits Humanities 2.0 credit Mathematics 4.0 credits Physical Education 1.0 credits Science 3.0 credits Spanish 2.0 credits Social Studies 4.0 credits Theology 4.0 credits Electives 4.0 credits

HONORS COURSES English 7-9, American Literature, British Literature, World Literature, Pre- Algebra, Algebra I, Algebra II/Trigonometry, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Computer Science, Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Anatomy & Physiology, Civics, Latin American History, Philosophy, Spanish 6-10, World History , Ignatian Spirituality. ADVANCED PLACEMENT Art History, Biology, Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Chemistry, Comparative Government & Politics, Computer Science, English Language, English Literature, Environmental Science, Human Geography, Physics C, Psychology, Spanish Language, Spanish Literature, Statistics, Studio Art, U.S. Government and Politics, U.S. History, World History

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STUDENT COUNCIL / CLUBS

STUDENT COUNCIL The Belen Jesuit Student Council demonstrates extraordinary leadership, dedication, and commitment to campus life. The councils main priorities are planning and funding major school events, providing hospitality for school functions, donating financial and physical resources to various school-wide projects, and providing leadership opportunities for the entire school community. CLUBS A.L.P.H.A. CLUBS Altar Servers Amnesty International Astronomy Club Athletes for Charity Aviation Club Belen Cangrejos Biomedical Engineering Club Bishop San Pedro Spanish Club Builders Club Chess Club Coffee House Club Cuba Club Ecology Do It Yourself Entrepreneurship Club Environmental Club Fencing Club Fishing Club Forensics French Club Future Doctors of America Green Club

Ham Radio Italian Club Key Club Meteorology Club Middle School Math Club Model United Nations Music Appreciation Society Operation Smile Opinio Juris Photography Club Portuguese Club Quill and Scroll Respect Life Robotics Club Rocket Club Senior National Beta Club Senior National Honor Society Software Development Club Spanish State Team (FSSC) Statistics Club Student Council

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HONOR SOCIETIES / ATHLETICS

HONOR SOCIETIES National Honor Society National Junior Honor Society National Senior Beta Club National Junior Beta Club National Spanish Honor Society National Art Honor Society SPORTS BY SEASON Fall Basketball (6th Grade) Cross Country Crew (Club) Football Golf Roller Hockey (Club) Swimming Volleyball (Middle School)

Mu Alpha Theta Science National Honor Society Quill and Scroll National Forensic League International Thespian Society

Winter Baseball (Middle School) Basketball Soccer Wrestling Spring Baseball Crew (Club) Track & Field Tennis Lacrosse (Club) Roller Hockey (Club) Volleyball Water Polo

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CAMPUS MINISTRY

CAMPUS MINISTRY - DR. JOSEFINA CHIRINO, MIN.D. The mission of the Society of Jesus, the service of the faith and the promotion of justice, point directly at the questions that St. Ignatius poses in the Spiritual Exercises: What have I done for Christ? What am I doing for Christ? What will I do for Christ? Our response is to serve Christ wherever He may be found, especially in our brothers and sisters who are poor, aged, disabled, ill, in prison, or in any way afflicted. Christs mission is directed to human beings. Faith and justice; it is never one without the other. Human beings need food, shelter, love, companionship, truth, meaning, promise, hope. (GC 35, II, 13) Our students, men for and with others, need to respond to the pressing needs of our world in love and service, knowing themselves to be the recipients of grace upon grace (Jn. 1, 16) from Gods unimaginable love. COMMUNITY SERVICE Our service program offers our students the opportunity to grow in their faith, to become men of virtue, men for and with others, knowing that volunteer work with and for the poor helps young people to live in solidarity with others and find meaning in and direction for their lives. (GC 35, III, 23) Service to others should become the habit of a graduate of a Jesuit school.
As they begin their high school life, our Freshmen participate in the Hurtado Experience. They are taken to places where they can serve people in need and return to school for lunch and an afternoon of reflection on that experience, which culminates with the celebration of the Eucharist. We offer after school opportunities for tutoring children in inner schools and interacting with autistic children in a near-by school. Our Juniors can take part in the Xavier Experience, whereby they are sent in mission to different places where they can serve people in need.

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CAMPUS MINISTRY

SACRAMENTAL LIFE The Eucharist is celebrated twice daily in our school chapel, giving the whole school community the opportunity to nourish its spiritual life. On special occasions, we gather for school-wide liturgies to give thanks to God. Students are encouraged to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation often and have opportunities for this, especially during Advent and Lent, when we hold special Reconciliation services EUCHARISTIC ADORATION The Blessed Sacrament is exposed every first Friday of the month from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Students are encouraged to participate in this traditional practice and to pray for vocations to the priesthood and religious life. We also have the Eucharistic Adoration in our school chapel at 9:00 p.m. DEVOTION TO OUR BLESSED MOTHER Students are encouraged to pray the Rosary in our chapel during their lunch periods. On the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary (October 7) and on the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima (May 13) we pray the Rosary as a community. We also celebrate school-wide Masses on special Feasts of Our Lady, such as The Immaculate Conception and Our Lady of Belen.

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CAMPUS MINISTRY

RETREATS & DAYS OF REFLECTION Our Juniors and Seniors are invited to participate in Encounter experiences. These retreats give them a chance to grow in love of God and others. Juniors participate in an overnight experience, Kairos and Seniors participate in the Senior Encounter. In addition, both Juniors and Seniors are given the opportunity to do the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola.
As they begin their high school life, our Freshmen participate in the Hurtado Experience. They are taken to places where they can serve people in need and return to school for lunch and an afternoon of reflection on that experience, which culminates with the celebration of the Eucharist. Days of Reflection are compulsory for all students in grades 6-8 and 10. The Days of Reflection serve as a moment for students to nourish their spirituality and grow in self-knowledge and openness to others.

BELEN YOUTH MISSIONS During summer vacation our Principal organizes mission trips to poverty stricken areas of the Dominican Republic, to work alongside the local people of the countryside. We generally take a group of students to work in the mountains alongside the poor. Our boys have helped to construct aqueducts, school houses, chapels, and bridges. In addition, the trip includes the participation of several doctors and nurses who operate makeshift clinics. The summer mission trip to the Dominican Republic usually takes place during the last week of June and first week of July. The experience is open to junior and senior students and alumni.

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SCHOOL COUNSELING

SCHOOL COUNSELING - MS. TERESA GUTIERREZ The School Counseling Department at Belen Jesuit Preparatory School practices ethical and professional standards in the implementation of a developmental, resultsbased school counseling program that promotes Jesuit values and student success. The departments goal is to provide care of each individual student (cura personalis). This approach assumes that each student is unique.
The school counselors work with students for the purpose of enacting positive changes in the areas of educational, social, emotional, and/or behavioral functioning. The Counselors employ various methods including individual counseling, small group counseling, family conferences, consultations with teachers, administrators and other school staff, classroom presentations, referrals to outside professionals and special events and projects. Each grade level has a counselor who stays with his/her students for several years. This model helps solidify a strong relationship between the student, his family and the counselor. The counselor implements a curriculum that is developmental, flexible and responsive to the specific trends and needs of his or her assigned grade level. Through this process an emphasis is made on character and value formation, decision-making skills, and personal awareness. The Counseling Department strives to strengthen our students emotional skills to make them more adaptable and successful in attaining their future goals. In addition, the counselors provide crisis counseling or responsive services when needed in order to help students overcome any obstacles that may interfere with their personal well being and academic success.

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COLLEGE COUNSELING

COLLEGE COUNSELING - MS. LISA PETERSON The college counseling phase is a busy and challenging time, but with proper counseling and preparation, it can also be a very exciting time in the life of a high school student. The goal of our College Counseling Office is to assist our students in the college search and application process. The college search begins during freshman year whereby students are encouraged to research their preferred colleges and determine their requirements. Requirements can include GPA requirements, test score requirements as well as specific course requirements. During freshman year, our students now have the opportunity to take the PSAT, here at Belen, in order to get them better acquainted with the SAT. The college search continues during sophomore year when students are encouraged to continue their research as well as visit college campuses. Sophomores are also given the opportunity to take the PSAT here at Belen. By junior year, students should have a general idea of what colleges they plan on applying to. During junior year, the students begin to meet with their college counselor on a more individual basis. Juniors are also given the opportunity to take the PSAT here at Belen. The junior year PSAT is important in that those scores are used to determine if our students qualify to be National Merit Scholars. Juniors should take the ACT in April and the SAT in May. This year, however, we are encouraging our juniors who are enrolled in AP classes to take the SAT in March as the AP exams are during the same week as the May SAT. By senior year, the students have their finalized list of the colleges they plan on applying to. The college counselors help our students complete their applications, revise their essays, create resumes, apply for scholarships and much more. We are proud to note that each year 98% of our students matriculate in four-year colleges with many of them enrolling at some of the nations top universities.

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GRADUATE AT GRADUATION

GRADUATE AT GRADUATION The Graduate at Graduation (Grad at Grad) orients Belen Jesuit towards bringing resources to foster student growth in the direction outlined below: OPEN TO GROWTH The Jesuit high school student at the time of graduation has matured as a person emotionally, intellectually, physically, socially, religiously to a level that reflects some intentional responsibility for ones own growth (as opposed to a passive, drifting, laissez-faire attitude about growth). The graduate is at least beginning to reach out in his or her development, seeking opportunities to stretch the mind, imagination, feelings, and religious consciousness. INTELLECTUALLY COMPETENT By graduation the Jesuit high school student will exhibit a mastery of those academic requirements for advanced forms of education. While these requirements are broken down into departmental subject matter areas, the student will have developed many intellectual skills and understandings, which cut across and go beyond academic requirements for college entrance. The student moreover is beginning to see the need for intellectual integrity in his or her personal quest for religious truth and in his or her response to issues of social justice.

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GRADUATE AT GRADUATION

RELIGIOUS By graduation the Jesuit high school student will have a basic knowledge of the major doctrines and practices of the Catholic Church. The graduate will also have examined his or her own religious feelings and beliefs with a view to choosing a fundamental orientation toward God and establishing a relationship with a religious tradition and/or community. What is said here, respectful of the conscience and religious background of the individual, also applies to the non-Catholic graduate of a Jesuit high school. The level of theological understanding of the Jesuit high school graduate will naturally be limited by the students level of religious and human development. LOVING By the time of graduation, the Jesuit high school student is well on the way to establishing his or her own identity. The graduate is also on the threshold of being able to move beyond self-interest or self-centeredness in relationships with significant others. In other words he or she is beginning to be able to risk some deeper levels of relationship in which one can disclose self and accept the mystery of another person and cherish that person. COMMITTED TO DOING JUSTICE The Jesuit high school student at graduation has achieved considerable knowledge of the many needs of local and wider communities and is preparing for the day when he or she will take a place in these communities as a competent, concerned and responsible member. The graduate has begun to acquire the skills and motivation necessary to live as a person for others. Although this attribute will come to fruition in mature adulthood, some predispositions will have begun to manifest themselves earlier.

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DEVELOPMENT

OFFICE OF DEVELOPMENT - MR. NESTOR RODRIGUEZ Since our doors first opened in 1854, Belen Jesuit Preparatory School has called upon the generosity of others to help advance our institution and our mission. Although our particular needs vary from year to year, our school depends on our parents spirit of giving to be able to continue offering a quality education in the Jesuit tradition of excellence. We also solicit contributions yearly from our alumni and other friends of the school.
Your generous investment in Belen Jesuit enables us to meet the ever-changing needs of preparing young men for college in the 21st century, as we challenge them to become leaders and live as men of conscience, compassion, and action. When you make a gift to our Annual Fund, Tuition Assistance, or towards a specific project, your gift will help continue to: Keep tuition costs competitive by filling the gap between tuition revenues and the schools higher operating costs Maintain or improve the quality of facilities and classroom resources Offer financial assistance to deserving students who otherwise would not be able to attend Belen Grow our endowment in order to seize future educational and extracurricular opportunities Your generosity is always greatly appreciated! If you have any questions about making a gift to Belen, please contact our Development Office either at 786.621.4665, mtomasino@belenjesuit.org, or through our schools website www.belenjesuit.org. Thank you for your support!

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TECHNOLOGY

TECHNOLOGY - MS. CAROL ANN VILA We are excited to announce a new technology initiative at Belen Jesuitthis is most appropriate as we celebrate and reflect on our first fifty years in Miami and look forward to the next fifty years. A school-wide iPad program will be launched in the 2012-2013 school year.
Educational experts forecast profound changes in the near future in the way students learn in the classroom. We are aware of the need for constant review and revision of curriculum and the need to oversee the integration of technology into instruction with intelligence, reflection and evaluation. We feel it is time to move forward, integrating an interactive technology into the teaching/learning process, where students can learn while being connected to the world, using the best resources available in order to ensure the best education possible. The Belen Jesuit iPad Program will benefit our students in the following ways: Student Access to real-time information 24/7 Alleviating the textbook load and heavy bags by adopting e-books and/or redesigning the curriculum without traditional textbooks Increased motivation and enthusiasm for student learning Facilitating creativity in learning Better student engagement in the learning processmove from passive to active learning

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RAMON GUITERAS MEMORIAL LIBRARY

RAMON GUITERAS MEMORIAL LIBRARY - MS. MARTA COSCULLUELA The Ramon Guiteras Memorial Library at Belen Jesuit was established in 1962 by a trust established by the Guiteras Family. The library serves as a resource and cultural center for both the Belen students and community at large. The Ramon Guiteras Memorial Library houses a collection of over 35,000 books, over 80,000 e-Books, hundreds of DVDs and Video Cassettes as well as current subscriptions to popular and scholarly journals and local and national newspapers. Books written in Spanish are available in all subjects including fiction. Our resources are easily accessible through our online catalog with entries under author, title, subject, and keywords.
The 33 computers with Internet access and electronic databases offer library patrons the latest sources of information for academic and research purposes. Please visit our databases page to see a list of links to our online subscriptions. The Coleccin Cubana features a wealth of information about Cuba. You will find books about Cuba and books written by Cuban authors, both in English and Spanish. You can find turn of the century rare books and the most recently published books on this special topic. The library also supports the curriculum of Belen Jesuit Preparatory School and provides resources and guidance to Belen students, faculty and staff in the area of research and information retrieval skills. Library hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday

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FACILITIES

MIGUEL B. FERNANDEZ & FAMILY MAIN BUILDING The Miguel B. Fernandez and Family Main Building is the cornerstone of the Belen Jesuit Preparatory school campus. It is the first structure built on our current campus in 1981. The main building houses over six dozen classrooms which include the Vincam Group Wing, the schools chapel, communication arts & multimedia center, Garrido Family Plaza, cafeteria, observatory, faculty lounge, department chairpersons offices, school store, student activities center, school counseling center, college counseling center and main office. COMMUNICATION ARTS & MULTIMEDIA CENTER The Multimedia Center houses the schools desktop publishing lab which produces three print publications: Echoes, Ateneo, and Vincam. The students produce these publications using the latest hardware and software for graphic design. The largest portion of this facility is a professional grade, state of the art television studio that is used by the television production class to broadcast daily news, weather, and sports to the entire community. The center also includes a control room, two editing suites, and an audio booth to support the broadcasting and cinematography aspects of the program, and has the potential for radio broadcasting as well. In addition, the Multimedia Center includes a classroom for the study of public speaking, introduction to journalism, and public relations and marketing. IGNATIAN CENTER FOR THE ARTS The Ignatian Center for the Arts is located on the north side of our campus. The art center consists of the Ophelia & Juan Js. Roca Theater with a seating capacity of 662 patrons, Olga & Carlos Saladrigas Art Gallery, 7 classrooms, a music rehearsal hall and the theaters administrative office. The seven classrooms house the Humanities Department classes which include Philosophy, Drama, Art History, Music, Band, 2D art and 3D art.

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FACILITIES

RAUL AND NIDIA RODRIGUEZ SCIENCE PAVILION The Science Pavilion houses a biology lab, a chemistry lab, a physics lab, and an earth and space science lab. Additionally, there are 3 middle-school science classrooms. A beautiful mural along with eight display cases decorates the Science Pavilion lobby. BELEN JESUIT OBSERVATORY FOR ASTRONOMY & METEOROLOGY Continuing a tradition of over 140 years, the Belen Observatory is at the service of its students and the Miami community. Belen Jesuit is the only school in the United States equipped with a 16 inch telescope with a CCD camera for astrophotography. Weather forecasts are radioed daily to various cities in Florida. The observatory was made possible by donations from the Belen Jesuit Class of 1972. ROBERTO C. GOIZUETA ATHLETIC CENTER The Roberto Goizueta Athletic Center is the home of Belen Jesuits athletic department. The building houses two classrooms, the athletic department office, a weight room, four locker rooms, a training room, and a beautiful lobby. The gymnasium has two full length basketball courts and two full length volleyball courts. ATHLETIC FACILITIES The outdoor athletic facilities have been redesigned and include the de la Cruz stadium (track, football & soccer field), a baseball complex, tennis courts, outdoor basketball courts and Zumpano pool. The stadium contains elevated seating for 1,000 fans and is equipped with a coaches box, sound system, and a large electronic score board. Our baseball complex is composed of two fields. The tennis facility is now comprised of five tennis courts with a center court, and an outdoor pavilion for spectators. Adjacent to the tennis facility are the two outdoor basketball courts. A new cross country course has been completed composed of grass, gravel and woodchips that loops the entire school.

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COMMUNICATION ARTS & MULTIMEDIA

COMMUNICATION ARTS & MULTIMEDIA - MS. SUJAYLA COLLINS With a state of the art professional studio and news room, the Communication Arts and Multi Media department provides the latest local, national, and international news to the student body, faculty, staff, and alumni. This department is responsible for the production of the three award winning school print publications: Vincam, Ateneo, and Echoes. It also facilitates the production of a daily news show broadcasted through Belen TV, and produces a series of student made films and documentaries throughout the year.
The objective of this program is to expose students to the areas of New Media, Public Relations, Marketing, Film, Public Speaking, Broadcast and Print Journalism. Exposure to these fields enhances the education of the total person. The Communications Department teaches not only to the intellectual, but also to the aesthetic side of the student while concentrating on the moral values, ethics, passion, respect, appreciation, compassion, and love. It is a discipline that teaches service to others in the form of films, news, speeches, and communication skills as well as a better appreciation for the beauty of the world around us. Our goal is to provide an evolving, responsible and purposeful learning experience that is student-centered and studentempowering within a multicultural and global context. Our mission is to educate young men to effectively communicate in a bilingual environment, both orally and in writing, for the purpose of promoting the flow of community information while upholding the morals and values established by the Society of Jesus.

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COMPUTER SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

COMPUTER SCIENCE DEPARTMENT - MR. MIKE CRUDELE Keenly aware of their responsibility to prepare students for a world immersed in and dependent on technology, the members of the Computer Science Department strive to develop in each student a strong foundation in computer literacy, computational, analytical, and reasoning skills. The department acknowledges the changing complexion of computer education and adjusts its curriculum regularly to adapt to these changes. Motivated by these considerations, a great effort is made by the department to foster and promote an integrated and interdisciplinary curriculum.
The ethical and responsible use of computers is emphasized in all computer science courses. The department considers individual differences among students and strives to offer a diversified college preparatory program which will meet the needs and interests and also be consistent with the abilities of all students. The department also assumes its part in the development of future leaders by emphasizing the importance of quantitative analysis of data in forecasting and decision-making. The Computer Science Department curriculum includes a required half credit course in 6th gradeIntroduction to Computers. For the high school students the following electives are available: Introduction to Computer Programming, Honors Computer Science, AP Computer Science, Web Page Design, and Introduction to Engineering. Belens Computer Science students compete in multiple computer programming competitions sponsored by Florida Universities such as Stetson, FIU, UCF and UF. In addition, the Robotics Team has achieved regional finalist status multiple times. In 2009-2010 the Robotics team won 5 awards and qualified to compete in the World Championship.

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ENGLISH DEPARTMENT

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT - MR. TONY ALEXANDER Through seven years and nine required courses, Belens English Department aims to guide students to become perceptive readers, persuasive and articulate writers, and discerning critical thinkers. Students study writing from the basics of grammar and composition to the completion of extensive MLA research papers, essays, and creative compositions. We also emphasize the related skills of public speaking. Literature is taught first in a genre-based approach. Starting in tenth grade, we teach the great traditions through historical/critical survey courses: American, British, and World Literatures. Our Honors program begins in seventh grade and continues throughout high school. It includes both Advanced Placement English courses: AP English Language in tenth grade, and AP English Literature in twelfth. Our outstanding English Department faculty includes three published fiction writers, three journalists, one poet, and two teachers with professional theater experience. Half of our English teachers hold advanced degrees.
Creative writing: Dade County Youth Fair Judges Awards: 1998 - Louis Artime & Michael Noa 2002 - Alex Rodriguez; 2004 - Alex Rodriguez 2008 - Rolando Vazquez

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HUMANITIES DEPARTMENT

HUMANITIES DEPARTMENT- MR. LEO NUNEZ The Ignatian Center for the Arts is the hub of the Humanities Department. The department includes the following subject areas: Art (drawing, painting, sculpture), AP Studio Art, Western Civilization and History of Art (and Honors), AP Art History, Drama, Music (history and bands), Philosophy and Stagecraft. These subjects are taught as formal academic courses, but the theoretical knowledge becomes real in the facilities of the Center. These facilities include the 662 seat state-of-the-art Roca Theater, the Saladrigas Gallery, the stagecraft workshop, the art studio and the band rehearsal hall. The school presents three drama performances annually. Eight years ago, the theater was inaugurated with performances of Death of a Salesman and Fuenteoveiuna. More recent seasons have included the plays One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest and A Few Good Men, and the Broadway musicals Godspell, West Side Story and Into the Woods. We are looking forward to the opening night of Lord of the Flies on November 15 and to the Broadway classic, Guys and Dolls in March 2012. The season concludes with a production of the Middle Schools Drama classes.
There are required courses in Music, Art and Drama in sixth and seventh grades. The Belen Band Program, started in the Spring of 2005, is open to students with musical talent starting in sixth grade. The twenty-member Drum-Line enlivens pep-rallies and athletic events. In addition, we have two Senior High bands (Jazz Band and Concert Band) that have four yearly concerts. The Middle School has three smaller bands for sixth, seventh and eighth grades. The bands also entertain the lunch-period crowds several times a year and enliven school-related events such as the Annual Belen Gala and the Spring Festival (Tombola). For the past four years, the Jazz Band has competed in Disney World and was adjudicated as Excellent in 2008 and received a second place trophy in 2009. In 2010 and in 2011 the Jazz Band received the Golden Mickey for Best in Class and another one for Best Solo. In 2009, the Jazz Trio received a first place trophy competing in the Miami-Dade County Youth Fair.

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MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT - MR. MIGUEL COUTO Belen Jesuit requires seven years of Mathematics, three at the middle school and four at the high school level. Students graduate with a strong mathematics background and are prepared to study higher-level mathematics in college. Belen Jesuit offers an Honors Program for high achieving students. The Honors Program begins in seventh grade with Pre-Algebra and culminates in twelfth grade with Advanced Placement Calculus. Students in the program are accelerated one year in mathematics. Mathematics Department teachers have an average of 17 years of experience. All faculty members offer after school help for their students. The use of technology, specifically the graphing calculator and math-specific software, is emphasized throughout the curriculum. Online practice and application of real world problems are available through the textbooks website.
Three advanced placement courses are offered: AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, and AP Statistics. Advanced Placement Calculus: Over 750 students have taken the AP Calculus AB or BC exam since May 2000. Advanced Placement Statistics 220 students have taken the AP Statistics exam since May 2003. The Mathematics SAT average for the Class of 2010 was 600. The Mathematics ACT average for the Class of 2010 was 26. The Department moderates the National High School and Junior College Mathematics Honor Club, Mu Alpha Theta. There are over 150 members enrolled in the club this year. Students participate at the local, regional and state mathematics competitions. Peer tutoring is also organized through the Mu Alpha Theta club. Middle school students participate in the MathCounts competition through the Middle School Math Club.

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MODERN LANGUAGES DEPARTMENT

MODERN LANGUAGES DEPARTMENT - DR. MARIA CRISTINA REYES-GARCIA The Modern Languages Department is privileged to have 14 highly-qualified, experienced and dedicated teachers. Their daily efforts are needed and challenged by our school mission: By developing speaking and writing skills in both English and Spanish, Belen graduates are prepared to live successfully as leaders in a multicultural community. This is the reason why Spanish is required from 6th through the 10th grades and why we have a demanding curriculum. The Department offers a program for Spanish speakers (with two Honors sections in each grade) as well as a Foreign Language program. Courses range from Spanish I through Spanish VII and an elective course Spanish for Professionals for Juniors and Seniors. It also includes courses that offer Dual Credit for College and 3 Advanced Placement Courses. Ninety-nine percent of the students who take the Language and Literature AP Exams pass with scores of 3 or better. French I III and Portuguese I - III are offered as electives.
Many hands-on activities are provided through the years in order to immerse our students in language, history, culture and current events of foreign countries. Our Language Fair held in October features over 600 projects and posters. Spain, all the Latin American countries, France and Brazil are represented with booths, music and foods. Other competitions in the areas of spelling, verbs, creative writing, proverbs, declamation, speeches and knowledge games are held every year at school and county level. A Belen Jesuit Spanish Invitational provides competition among many of the middle schools. Schools are also invited to participate in the annual Advanced Placement Spanish Literature Tertulia. Our students attend the Florida Spanish State Competition in speech, declamation and drama. We have won State Championships for 9 of the past 12 years! The 8th grade Spanish Speech & Writing course together with the Humanities Department produces a Christmas Concert for students and parents. The Department also offers a series of educational trips abroad, featuring Spain one year and a Latin American country the next.

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SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT - DR. LUCILA E. MARAZITA-ESPINOSA The Science Department aims to educate in the Jesuit tradition by providing all students the opportunity to learn both the theoretical basis and the practical applications of science. Always keeping in mind our core values, students are initiated in the middle-school science curriculum by a challenging Earth & Space Science course in the 6th grade, followed by Life Science in the 7th grade, and Physical Science in the 8th grade. Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Anatomy & Physiology are required courses for freshmen, sophomores and juniors respectively. For students who excel in science, honors courses are available. The Science Department offers the following electives: Astronomy, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science and AP Physics (B & C).
The Science Department follows the Sunshine State Standards as well as the National Science Education Standards, which recommend that science must be learned through application. Constructivist methods and inquiry-based approaches are the focus of all science courses and each course involves students in handson laboratory applications, demonstration, and technical and analytical writing. All courses require students to complete a minimum number of laboratory practices and to participate in the Science Enrichment Program, which includes but is not limited to, the Invention Convention, Fairchild Tropical Challenge and the South Florida Science and Engineering Fair. In addition, the Science Department works closely with the Belen Jesuit Observatory and Meteorology Station. Built in 1994 with the financial backing of the class of 1972, this facility affords all of our students the opportunity to be involved in the astronomical and meteorological sciences. The observatory and meteorological station is located on the roof of the school and it is staffed by a full-time meteorologist. It is equipped with state-of-the art equipment such as: an automatic movable dome, a 16-inch computer guided telescope, a CCD camera for astrophotography, 24 hour weather monitoring equipment, SmartBoards and ham radio equipment capable of carrying out conversations with other countries.

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SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT - MR. PATRICK COLLINS Middle School students take Geography in Grade 7 and Civics in Grade 8. The High School requires 4.5 credits of Social Studies: World History (one credit), U.S. History (one credit), U.S. Government (one credit), Economics (one half credit), and Latin American History (one credit). High School electives include Psychology (1 credit), Survey of U.S. Law (1 credit) and Principles of Business, Management, and Leadership (1credit). Honors Level is available for Civics, World History, U.S. History, U.S. Government, Latin American History (English) and Latin American History (Spanish). Seven Advanced Placement courses are offered: AP World History, AP U.S. History, AP U.S. Government and Politics, AP Comparative Government and Politics, AP Human Geography, AP Macroeconomics, and AP Psychology.
In partnership with the Close Up Foundation, the department offers a one-week seminar in Washington, DC, to study the federal government. The Overseas Study Program was created in 1994 to broaden the cultural, political, spiritual, and personal perspective of students by traveling for two weeks in the summer to distant lands. Through exploration, experience and reflection, participants encounter insights into Gods good Earth and people that are instrumental in the formation of Christian men. In June 2012, OSP provides a customized tour of Spain and Italy. The Model United Nations program is a simulation of the United Nations. At MUN conferences sponsored by universities, delegates representing nation-states from all over the world deliberate, debate, and develop peaceful solutions to world conflicts. Participants in MUN benefit by advancing in the areas of public speaking, diplomacy and global awareness. The department hosts an annual Geography Bee for middle schools from the Archdiocese of Miami. Students from the ninth and tenth grades attend the annual Holocaust Memorial Conference in Miami.

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THEOLOGY DEPARTMENT

THEOLOGY DEPARTMENT - DEACON ROBERT OMALLEY The Theology Department philosophy is centered on the teachings of Jesus Christ and His Church, as fostered by our Jesuit roots. The Department strives to help our students seek the magis and grow intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually by demonstrating that the Church is alive and working in todays world. Promoting this philosophy and core ideology, the Department encourages and emphasizes the importance of prayer, sacraments and living the Catholic/Christian/Ignatian traditions.
Theology classes are part of the required curriculum and are comprehensive, full credit classes. The middle school theology classes meet daily and focus on the Foundations and Essentials of Catholic Faith (6th grade), Mystery of God/Jesus in the New Testament (7th grade) and Church and the Sacraments and Morality: Life in Christ (8th grade). High school classes also meet daily and concentrate on the areas of Jesus Christ: His Mission and Ministry through Gods Revelation (9th grade), Jesus Christ: Source of our Salvation and Church (10th grade), Catholic Social Teaching (11th grade) and Encountering Jesus in the New Testament (12th grade). In addition, Belen offers a peer ministry program to selected students in the high school, as well as a senior honors class on Ignatian Spirituality. All classes encompass the experiential as well as the academic pursuit of religion and its values. Our students are challenged to incorporate these values into their lives through service to the larger communities in which they live following our Ignatian tradition to be men for others.

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QUICK FACTS

REACH BEYOND WHAT YOU KNOW Approximately 1,485 students are enrolled in the school Tuition for 2011-2012 is $12,000.00 plus a $350 non-refundable registration fee and a $450 activities fee for all students Tuition for 2012-2013 TBA Belen Jesuit provides$1.8 million in need-based tuition assistance Approximately 22% of students received financial aid last year Eight Jesuit priests are active in the life of the school Over 50 AP and honors courses are offered Students are required to take seven years of theology Students must participate in the schools community service program each year The class of 2011 includes 6 National Merit Semi-Finalists and 5 National Merit Commended Scholars Belen Jesuit employs approximately 122 full-time teachers 66% of whom hold advanced degrees The schools student to teacher ratio is 23 to 1 The average class size is 23 Belen Jesuit instructors average 12 years of teaching experience More than 98% of graduates attend four-year colleges and universities The class of 2011 received over $10.5 million in college scholarships Belen Jesuit offers approximately 65 extracurricular opportunities for students Students may choose from 15 sports & 43 teams Belen Jesuits sports teams have won 10 state championships and 3 academic team championships More than 50% of the school is involved in athletics and more than 50% of Honor Roll students are athletes Intramural athletics are offered in the Middle School Approximately 5,900 men for others have graduated from Belen Jesuit

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NOTES

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LEGEND 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. Main Office Ramon Guiteras Memorial Library Carlos M. Baranano Technology Center & College Counseling Office Communication Arts & Multimedia Center Raul and Nidia Rodriguez Science Pavillion Villa Javier - Jesuit Residence Building H Classrooms (1st & 2ndFloor) Observatory Building V Classrooms - The Vincam Wing Chapel Garrido Family Plaza School Store Cafeteria

LEGEND (CONTINUED...) 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. Vincam Cafeteria Extension Building F & G Classrooms Roberto C. Goizueta Athletic Center Ignatian Center for the Arts Ophelia & Juan Js. Roca Theater Olga & Carlos Saladrigas Gian Zumpano Aquatic Center Tennis & Basketball Courts Parking Lot de la Cruz Stadium Football Field Soccer Field Baseball Field Restrooms & Concession Stand Storage Administration Building