News at SHA

Sacred Heart Academy Shines at Speech Tournament with Aya’s 2nd Place Win
October 31, 2025

The Sacred Heart Academy (SHA) community is proud to celebrate a remarkable achievement by one of our own at the Speech Tournament held on October 11, 2025, right here at SHA. Competing against students from prestigious schools across the island, including Chaminade, Syosset, Roslyn, Kellenberg, and Half Hollow Hills, Aya Belkharraz Idris earned an impressive 2nd place finish in the challenging Extemporaneous category. This event tests quick thinking and deep understanding, as competitors receive an unexpected topic related to the economy and must prepare, memorize, and deliver a speech within just 30 minutes. Aya’s outstanding performance showcased her intelligence and rhetorical skill, making the SHA family incredibly proud.


“We are thrilled to see our students thrive in these rigorous competitions—especially since the success of our Speech and Debate team reinforces that our commitment to academic and leadership excellence extends beyond the classroom,” said President Kim Johnson.


This first home tournament of the season saw enthusiastic participation from freshmen and sophomores, highlighting the growing strength and dedication of our Speech and Debate team. Tournaments are held twice a month from October through March at various schools in the region, with the season culminating in the national competition in Washington, D.C., next May. Aya’s 2nd-place finish has earned her a half qualification, putting her well on her way to representing SHA on the national stage.


Speech and Debate Team Coach and English teacher Ms. Stephanie Cutrona praised her students’ dedication, sharing, “I am extremely proud of the hard work the girls are putting in—they meet with me during their lunch and study hall periods to practice, in addition to our after-school practices, and they are eager to help one another. I am often in awe of them—our girls are incredible! We are dedicated to growing our program to give our aspiring lawyers, doctors, presidents, and thespians a sphere to thrive.”


Principal Maria Hecht added, “We are so proud of Aya for earning second place! These competitions do more than celebrate talent—they help our young women find their voices, grow in confidence, and learn the power of thoughtful communication.”


Sacred Heart Academy fosters academic excellence and leadership for girls in grades 9–12. SHA's nationally recognized Speech and Debate team provides a powerful platform for students to develop confidence, critical thinking, and eloquence. Sacred Heart Academy looks forward to welcoming the next round of talented speakers to our home tournament at SHA on March 28.


Congratulations once again to Aya Belkharraz Idris for this outstanding achievement, and to all the SHA students who participated and demonstrated true dedication. Your success reflects the heart and spirit of our community: leadership, resilience, and excellence in action.

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Natalia Taylor '27 Sets Sacred Heart Academy Track and Field Records

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Record-breaking thrower Natalia Taylor credits patience, perseverance, and the Sacred Heart sisterhood for her success on and off the field.

Heart of SHA: Faylen Morales ‘28

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Ever since Faylen Morales ‘28 was 8 years old, she has known she wanted to help build a world where everyone feels included. That passion drove her to attend Sacred Heart Academy in the fall of 2024, where, in addition to her rigorous academic schedule, she competes as a Varsity swimmer, is an active member of the Cooking Club, and takes part in Red & Gold. Beyond her commitments at SHA, Faylen has volunteered as a coach at TOPSoccer for the past 8 years, a recreational soccer program for children and adults with intellectual, emotional, and physical disabilities. She credits her dedication to the organization for making her a ‘more compassionate, patient and understanding person.” Faylen attributes Sacred Heart Academy to teaching her that “true leadership comes from leading with love, compassion and faith." "SHA reminds us to do everything through Jesus and shows me that leadership is not about recognition, but about serving others with kindness and using our actions to make a positive difference in people’s lives.” A rising Junior, Faylen already plans to attend college, where she will study to be a school psychologist serving children with diverse learning needs. “I am so thankful to have been exposed to children and adults with special needs from a young age because those experiences helped me develop a passion for helping others and making a positive impact on people’s lives. My experience at Sacred Heart has strengthened my compassion, patience, and desire to serve others, helping me grow into the kind of person who wants to give back to my community and support others in meaningful ways.” Sacred Heart Academy is proud to recognize Faylen as a shining example of what it means to Lead with Heart!

Inspiring Excellence in Every Student

Rooted in faith and tradition, we empower young women to lead with confidence, compassion, and integrity. Through rigorous academics, spiritual growth, and a supportive sisterhood, our students are inspired to excel in college and beyond while making a meaningful impact in the world.

Natalia Taylor '27 Sets Sacred Heart Academy Track and Field Records

June 23, 2026
Record-breaking thrower Natalia Taylor credits patience, perseverance, and the Sacred Heart sisterhood for her success on and off the field.

Heart of SHA: Faylen Morales ‘28

June 17, 2026
Ever since Faylen Morales ‘28 was 8 years old, she has known she wanted to help build a world where everyone feels included. That passion drove her to attend Sacred Heart Academy in the fall of 2024, where, in addition to her rigorous academic schedule, she competes as a Varsity swimmer, is an active member of the Cooking Club, and takes part in Red & Gold. Beyond her commitments at SHA, Faylen has volunteered as a coach at TOPSoccer for the past 8 years, a recreational soccer program for children and adults with intellectual, emotional, and physical disabilities. She credits her dedication to the organization for making her a ‘more compassionate, patient and understanding person.” Faylen attributes Sacred Heart Academy to teaching her that “true leadership comes from leading with love, compassion and faith." "SHA reminds us to do everything through Jesus and shows me that leadership is not about recognition, but about serving others with kindness and using our actions to make a positive difference in people’s lives.” A rising Junior, Faylen already plans to attend college, where she will study to be a school psychologist serving children with diverse learning needs. “I am so thankful to have been exposed to children and adults with special needs from a young age because those experiences helped me develop a passion for helping others and making a positive impact on people’s lives. My experience at Sacred Heart has strengthened my compassion, patience, and desire to serve others, helping me grow into the kind of person who wants to give back to my community and support others in meaningful ways.” Sacred Heart Academy is proud to recognize Faylen as a shining example of what it means to Lead with Heart!

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