On Wednesday, August 22, students who arrived at the Jesuit Middle School of Omaha (JMSO) were not only celebrating the start of a new school year, but news of the highest enrollment numbers ever.  

 

For the first time in 12 years, the number of students enrolled at the school housed in the former Butler-Gast YMCA building is 73—two away from capacity.  “We are very excited about welcoming our new students,” said Principal Tony Connelly.  We are thankful for and proud of the young men who make Jesuit a beacon of hope for North Omaha.”  

 

This year also brings change in the staff at JMSO.  Ms. Maggi Vacha joins the school after spending a number of years teaching at St. Richard’s.  Ms. Vacha will be the new fifth grade homeroom teacher.  She will also teach sixth grade math and fourth grade social studies.   Mr. Mike Mansour will be new the sixth grade homeroom teacher, in addition to teaching science, geography, algebra and life skills.  Mr. Mansour is filling the vacancy left by Mr. Tony Koesters.  

 

Another new staff member is Fr. Paul Coelho, S.J.  A native of India, he is part of a Jesuit cooperative program.  His most recent experience was as Principal of Red Cloud High School in Pine Ridge, South Dakota.  Fr. Paul will coordinate the tutoring program, as well as the “Reading Counts” Accelerated Reading Program.  He will also teach graduate-level classes at Creighton University.  Fr. Paul is taking the place of Mr. David Verdirame, who is currently enrolled in graduate school in California.