Villa Maria Elementary

Message from the Principal

Mr. Damon Finazzo, Principal

Hello, and welcome to Villa Maria Elementary School. It is my pleasure to introduce you to our premier school!

Villa Maria Elementary has been serving the Erie Community for almost 120 years, by offering preschool, elementary, and middle school education to thousands of children and families. We are a sponsored institution of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, and we focus our efforts on enhancing the “Neighbor with Neighbor, and Neighbor with God” mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph in three distinct and powerful ways: teaching to the whole child; celebrating all children for their individual greatness; and, providing an environment of service and charity for those in need.

Teaching to the whole child is at the heart of our VME educational experience. In addition to the outstanding standard-based academic instruction provided in the classroom, we have developed a curriculum that integrates the arts into the teaching and learning of our students. This method enables children to express their knowledge of the curriculum in ways other than paper and pencil, thereby providing specific opportunities to enrich their brain activity and prepare them for success in the future. A complete physical education and sports program rounds out the school day to encourage healthy habits and team participation.

We are also well known for our unique ability to be a school that is safe, nurturing, and inclusive for students of all cultures, religions, and learning abilities. The faculty and staff work tirelessly to foster an environment where all children are valued and celebrated for their unique talents. The success stories from parents and alumni are endless!

At VME we take pride in teaching our students how to be positive contributors to the community. Service projects and charity fundraisers are completed year round by all grades. Money, materials, time and effort have been donated to over 15 charities, organizations, or social causes in the year 2009-2010 alone!

The dynamics of the curriculum, the safe, nurturing, and inclusive culture of the school, and the focus on service and charity, combine to be the cornerstone of our learning environment.

As the principal of VME, it is my charge to carry on this important ministry of the SSJ’s with you. Please feel free to either call or email me to set up a time to meet and discuss any questions or topics of interest you may have. I pray that VME has the opportunity to serve you and your family, and I look forward to meeting you in time to start the new 2010-11 school year. God bless!

Sincerely yours,

Damon Finazzo
Principal
(814) 838-5451
damon.finazzo@vmelementary.com