Building community is a hallmark of Sacred Heart education (Goal 4) and it is embodied in how families come together to support our school and celebrate students. Academy parent Todd Dorton (Charlotte ’28 and Larkin ’30) has become involved in many ways. Below, he shares what inspires him to participate in daily life at our school.
When we were searching for a new school, the Academy stood out for several reasons. Shannon and I were looking for a strong sense of community and a place where we, as parents, could be involved. We wanted a school that felt like home—a place where we could build relationships with teachers, get to know the families of our children’s classmates, and participate in meaningful ways. As a family, we embrace unconventional learning, and we love when students are encouraged to explore in ways that inspire, challenge, and motivate them. Traditional education methods provide a strong foundation, but at the Academy, we’ve seen our daughters grow in exciting ways beyond the classroom desk.
One of the most inspiring recent developments has been the growth of the Sustainability Garden. Since the beginning of the year, I’ve had the opportunity to volunteer alongside Mr. Taylor, Ms. Furay, and the Sustainability Club, and it has been incredibly rewarding. Right now, we have more than 75 plants growing in the Science Lab and the garden outside—tomatoes, black-eyed Susans, peas, sunflowers, spinach, and carrots—all planted by students. Every Thursday, I walk into the classroom and see their faces light up with excitement. These students are deeply engaged, from learning about composting to recycling to growing their own food. Their creativity, dedication, and curiosity are inspiring.
Sustainability has been a lifelong passion of mine, sparked by a middle school teacher many years ago. It’s powerful to witness Mr. Taylor have that same impact on his students today. What’s happening in the garden is so much more than a science lesson—it’s interdisciplinary, deeply character-building, and a beautiful example of hands-on learning in action.
Whether I’m volunteering with the Sustainability Club, helping as a room parent, or supporting Chemin de Fer, my focus is always on my children. I often ask myself: How can I contribute to their world? How can I support their teachers, enrich their community, and lead by example—while staying appropriately involved? Volunteering is also just plain fun. I’m inspired by so many other parents who contribute in different ways, and I encourage everyone to find their place within this community.
At the heart of the Academy is a deep sense of connection and shared purpose. It’s part of the “secret sauce” that makes this school so special. We’ve been thrilled with our decision to join this community three years ago—and even more so as we’ve seen our daughters thrive, both in and out of the classroom.
