Queridos amigos,
Bienvenido a la Escuela Preparatoria Villanova, una academia preparatoria universitaria arraigada en la rica tradición católica romana y agustiniana guiada por los valores centrales de unidad, verdad y amor. Fundada en 1924 por los frailes agustinos en el pintoresco y pintoresco valle de Ojai, Villanova ha proporcionado consistentemente una experiencia educativa completa que ha permitido a cada estudiante crecer y desarrollarse académicamente, espiritualmente, moralmente, físicamente y personalmente.
At the heart of Villanova is its community. This is a place where students are known by their teachers, coaches, advisors, and peers. People take the time to listen and to notice what matters to each student. Small class sizes make that possible, and so does our commitment to ensuring that every student finds something to excel in, whether it be in campus ministry, athletics, the arts, in clubs or student-led organizations. Students find support in the Learning Center, the ELD program, and college counseling, but just as often in the everyday interactions that shape their sense of belonging. They build self awareness both in and out of the classroom.
As our new school leader, I have witnessed how the Augustinian values of Truth, Unity and Love impact students. Augustinian pedagogy calls us to make space here for reflection, to slow down and make sense of our experiences. As students do this, they begin to recognize their own voice and take greater responsibility for their learning. Living and learning alongside peers from around the world deepens that process. These daily encounters broaden perspectives and challenge assumptions, often in ways that stay with students long after they leave.
Our teachers are experts in their subjects and they know their students. They challenge students to think critically and problem solve -- hallmarks of a great college prep education, but they also pay attention to each student’s story, what draws their interest, and where their strengths are beginning to take shape. I am often struck by how a teacher recognizes something in a student before the student fully sees it in themselves, and how meaningful that moment can be in shaping what comes next.
This is the formation we offer at Villanova. It is a small miracle I have the privilege to witness every day, sometimes in subtle ways and sometimes in moments of real accomplishment. Students leave ready for college, but more importantly with a clearer sense of who they are and how they want to live. They carry with them a habit of reflection and a growing awareness that their lives are connected to something larger than themselves. It is why so many alumni remain connected and return with a lasting affection for the place and the people who helped shape them.
I am inspired by what Villanova represents: a global community rooted in the Ojai Valley. It is what calls me to serve as its leader, just as it calls our students to serve now and into the future.
Daniel Annarelli
VPS Principal
Phone: 805-646-1464 x117
Email: dannarelli@villanovaprep.org
