Mother Seton Regional High School, founded in 1963, is committed to the "complete education" of the 425 young women who attend the Middle States Association accredited institution. Affiliated with the Sisters of Charity of Convent Station, the mission of the Catholic girls' high school is to "challenge, empower and inspire" its students and have them excel in "academics, personal growth and service to others" while learning in a diverse environment.

Sister Regina Martin, S.C., is proud of every student and stresses the importance of forming smart, capable young women. "They really are delightful girls," she said. "These young women are the future of the Church and the future of our families."

The school promotes "academic excellence and Seton Spirit," a motto that is displayed throughout the halls. Assistant Principal Joan Barron believes the "Seton Spirit" is difficult to explain, but is felt throughout the school. "We focus on the student and their individual potential. You definitely catch the Seton Spirit quickly when you enter here."

Academic excellence can be seen in the graduating class, where there was 100-percent college acceptance. The graduates were awarded over $9.6 million in scholarships to nearly 75 percent of the class. Two Mother Seton students-Kathleen Tower and Stephanie Wazszkiewicz—earned "Commended Student" status in the 2008 National Merit Program. Recent graduate Jackie Somogyi was a National Merit Scholar semifinalist.

Extra-curricular activities such as sports and arts programs give students a well-rounded education. That education also includes timemanagement skills and learning to interact with students outside the classroom. "The students are really interactive with each other and with faculty. Involved students don't feel isolated," Barron explained.

Seasonal activities, such as "Deck the Halls," where 150 girls stay after school to decorate the facility for Christmas, foster school spirit. A major event for the year is Spirit Week, which this year began on Oct. 10. Points are tallied and the winning class receives bragging rights for the rest of the year. "There is no prize," Sr. Regina said. "They are their own reward."

Education in a same-sex environment allows the young women to fully express themselves, Sr. Regina believes. "The girls have a chance to excel. We focus on getting them to stand up for themselves. Camaraderie at this age is very important. These young women are leaders in offices and are not afraid to show us who they are."

Senior Meredith Lubas, 16, is student council president and captain of the school's dance team. Serving as a student ambassador, Lubas visits local grammar schools to promote Mother Seton.

"This school is definitely unique. You want to be involved and the faculty gets involved as well. With all girls, you focus on yourself as an individual."

Focused on a career in nursing, Lubas believes Mother Seton has equipped her for the future. "This school has definitely prepared me for the real world. You feel like you are on a level playing field with others around you."

The connection between students and faculty was important throughout her journey in high school. She has fond memories of the spring "lock-in" where students and faculty spend the night at the school.

"It's like a giant slumber party," Lubas explained. "We all watch movies and there is a big campfire. The whole school is invited.

Junior Rachel del Valle, 15, is also a student ambassador and is on the school's forensics team. Last May, she competed in a national forensics meet in Appleton, WI. "At the meet, I wasn't really nervous. You learn to develop poise and how to talk to people."

Another member of the forensics team, sophomore Deandra Cadet, 15, is involved with the school play. She appreciates the diversity at her school and learns from other students everyday.

"There are so many different kinds of people here. I love cultures and international relations. We have a cultural assembly where students dance, sing and perform in front of the school. It's great to showcase your own culture."