Submitted by Rich Esposito, Walsh Academy Board Member
Clarissa John (Seneca, Allegany Territory) graduated from Walsh Academy/Southern Tier Catholic School (STCS) earlier this month on June 2nd, 2023 at the St. Bonaventure Quick Center. That day capped off her Walsh/STCS career from 1st Grade through High School graduation.
Clarissa was involved in soccer and the yearbook committee, and earned a regents diploma.
About her experience at Walsh/STCS, Clarissa found “Small class sizes were perfect because you could go up to a teacher for assistance – they are very accessible and helpful. Teachers form a relationship with you and that difference at Walsh/STCS played a major role in helping me make progress academically.”
Additionally, Clarisa mentioned, “My math skills really improved at STCS/Walsh, especially with Mrs. Crawford, and I don’t think I would have made that progress in a large classroom environment. The school draws students from multiple areas in the region, provides outreach opportunities for Seneca Nation students to communities outside of Salamanca including Olean, Bradford, and that was important to me, as well.”
Clarisa will attend Alfred State for large animal Veterinary science. As for her dream job, “Ultimately, I would like to open my own Emergency Room for large animals,” she said.
The Walsh/STCS students and faculty have enjoyed working closely with the SNI community, and many SNI students have been a part of the Walsh/STCS student body over the years. Next year, Walsh/STCS is focusing on Montessori through 8th grade at the new St. John’s location in North Olean.
To inquire about enrolling students for the ’23/’24 school year, please contact Colleen Taggerty at colleen.taggerty@walshstcs.org or call (716) 372-8122. Financial aid is available, and most SNI students attend Walsh/STCS at no cost.
