The theme of each academic year supports AHA's mission and provides the central foundation for life on campus.

This year's theme, Pillars of Virtue, offers AHA staff and faculty an opportunity to talk with students about their particular grade level and high school journey, using modern language and examples to teach the Cardinal Virtues. 

• Grade 9 - Temperance: Navigating New Freedom
• Grade 10 - Prudence: Making Wise Choices
• Grade 11 - Fortitude: Managing and Excelling in Academic Life & Pressure
• Grade 12 - Justice: Leaving a Legacy

"As 9th graders go through their first few weeks of high school, we teach them to be responsible for their own schedules, homework, and study habits," explained Principal Heidi Foley. "We teach them time management and how to navigate new freedom, thus practicing Temperance."

Sophomores have learned how high school operates and have experienced new freedom. As they continue to grow and stretch their wings, we will help them practice Prudence to make wise choices.

The junior year is important for high school students. Their academic load is full as they build their portfolios for college, and AHA students are involved in many extracurricular activities and sports. Fortitude will help them face the challenges and rigors of the year with confidence and preparation.  

AHA's seniors will learn how their actions can guide and teach younger AHA students to act with respect and be responsible for themselves and their work. As the leaders of the school, they will display Justice as they prepare to leave a legacy on the school.

"Grounding one's life in the virtues helps develop the habits necessary for a lifetime of happiness," said AHA President Dr. David Sorkin. "Providing our students a framework to do this will result in students with the disposition to authentically live the AHA Way for the rest of their lives."

AHA seeks to ensure each student, as a whole person, may achieve full potential to excel intellectually, to live spiritually, to lead responsibly, to act justly, and to serve selflessly. Grounding our school year in the Pillars of Virtue will help guide us as we continue to live up to the important mission we have set for ourselves.

We can't wait to see how the Pillars of Virtue will inspire growth and success across the entire AHA community this year and beyond.