The Marian Scholars Program at DSHA is a student-centered, inclusive education program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.The Marian Scholars Program is inspired by Blessed Mary of the Apostles, founder of the Sisters of the Divine Savior, whose mission is to make known the goodness and kindness of Jesus Christ. Blessed Mary and Venerable Francis Mary of the Cross Jordan sought to build an inclusive community of religious men, women, and laity to further the kingdom of God. The Marian Scholars Program is rooted in this spirit of inclusivity. The Marian Scholars program also recognizes that Mary, Mother of Our Savior, who inspires our school chapel, embraced Jesus and all who came into her midst.
The Marian Scholars Program supports the belief that all students deserve opportunities to maximize their academic, social, and spiritual potential. Building upon our mission to educate young women in a Christ-centered community that values diversity, and to develop them to become women of faith, heart, and intellect, it seems only natural for DSHA to embrace the great mosaic of all God’s children.
Students in the Marian Scholars Program participate in all aspects of the DSHA community. They take a variety of
classes in the general education setting including English, Theology, Science, Social Studies, Specialized Studies, and the Arts. They join clubs and
athletics teams; serve at Mass; and participate in choir, dance, concerts, and school plays.
The Marian Scholars Program relies on a peer mentoring component. Students in the program are paired with Peer Mentors who help engage them in class, implement curriculum modifications, and lend other supports as needed. Peer mentors typically are members of our active Best Buddies club.