Published on June 10, 2009

Announcement of Benedictine School Open House in Ridgely, Maryland - July 14, 2009, 1 to 3 pm. The public is invited to visit the campus and people of our pioneering program for individuals with developmental disabilities: meet the students, talk with staff, tour the facilities, visit classrooms and see us at work.

Benedictine School Open House

See, Learn, and Enjoy Open House at the Benedictine School

Everyone is invited to visit the first ever Open House at the Benedictine School in Ridgley on
Tuesday, July 14^th, 1:00 to 3:00 pm. Many area residents may not be aware that Benedictine Programs and Services is an internationally known and highly regarded organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with special needs, including autism, retardation, and multiple physical, mental, and emotional disabilities. Our staff is preparing a friendly welcome to the general public, as well as professionals and others with particular interest in special education. The Open House will include: campus tours; talking to staff; meeting the students; and visiting classrooms to see us at work. We are celebrating our 50^th Anniversary this year, and hope to use this opportunity to raise public awareness of the gifts, challenges, and contributions of people with developmental disabilities.

The Director of Benedictine Programs and Services is Sister Jeannette Murray, O.S.B., who explains the purpose of the Open House. “We not only want our neighbors to know what is going on down that long lane they see from the highway,” said Sister Jeannette, “we want everyone to see what a wonderful part of our community our kids and adults are, and the love and skill that goes into helping that happen.”

Benedictine Programs and Services is headquartered on 500 acres of farmland in Ridgely, Maryland, with residential and day educational services for more than 100 children ages 5 through 21. Many school parents consider it "a prep school for life's challenges" because of the individualized pursuit of each child's growth, happiness, and success. In addition, Benedictine operates state-licensed group homes throughout Maryland and Delaware for nearly 100 adults ages 22 to over 60. The organization is managed by the Sisters of St. Benedict and is recognized nationally for its pioneering approach to educating and caring for children and adults with developmental disabilities. The Benedictine School is a fully approved, non-sectarian service provider caring for 200 children and adults without regard to racial, ethnic, or religious background.

For more information about Benedictine, please call 410-634-2292 or visit online at www.benschool.org.