Frequently-Asked Questions about the ACE Parent Retreat

Why a retreat for ACE 18 Parents?
Over the years, many ACE parents have expressed interest in knowing more about the ACE experience, and so in 2007, we began inviting parents to join us for part of the ACE summer.  We wanted to give them a taste of their sons' and daughters' experience, and help to answer questions about ACE and Notre Dame's mission to sustain and strengthen Catholic schools.

How many parents attend the retreat?
The group grows every year, with parents of well over half of the ACE teachers participating each summer.

What is the cost of the retreat, and what does that fee cover?
The retreat fee of $160 per person covers all retreat meals, activities, and supplies.  Accommodations can be arranged for an additional charge (see next question).  Please note that we do not want costs to be prohibitive.  If the retreat fee or accommodation expenses would keep you from being able to join us, please let us know.  Financial support is available.

Do I need to reserve a hotel room?
Though you are of course welcome to make your own arrangements, we are happy to offer accommodations for retreat participants who so choose.  Simply note your selection when registering, and we will make all related arrangements, including a reservation in your name.

• Hotel Option:  A block of rooms is availalbe at the Inn at Saint Mary's on the nearby campus of Saint Mary's College (www.innatsaintmarys.com).  The Parent Retreat rate is $210, which includes a two-night stay and shuttle transportation to retreat events.
• Campus Option:  For those wishing to relive their college days, rooms are available in a dormitory on the Notre Dame campus.  We will not learn until closer to the summer which dorm will be assigned to our group, but it will be air-conditioned, and basic linens will be provided.  Parents who choose to stay on campus are reminded that dorm restrooms are shared and down the hall.  The Parent Retreat rate is $140 for a double room or $95 for a single room, which includes a two-night stay.

Why is the retreat scheduled during the week, rather than over a weekend?
We certainly understand that a weekend retreat would, in many cases, be a bit more convenient for many who choose to travel in for these three days; however, participants over the years have encouraged us not to change the schedule!  The retreat is scheduled to coincide with the end of the ACE summer, which allows parents to participate in our annual Missioning Mass and the events leading up to it.  Participants in past years have consistently cited the Missioning Mass as a highlight of the retreat, and have also found it helpful that the end of the retreat coincides with their children's departure from the Notre Dame campus.

What is the ACE Missioning Mass?
The Missioning Mass is a celebration in which the ACE 18 teachers will be honored for their year of service to Catholic schools.  Both the ACE 18 and ACE 19 classes, as well as members of ACE's other formation programs, will be sent forth to serve their schools across the country.

Will I have time to spend with my child?
Yes.  The events of the retreat are scheduled to coincide with your child's schedule as ACE teachers finish their summer coursework.  This will give you time to spend together when the ACErs are free.  You will see on the retreat schedule that certain events (starred) include the ACE teachers.

Can I bring other children?
We would prefer that parents not bring other children to the retreat because the events and activities are geared toward parents.  However, please be in contact with us if this would prohibit you from joining us for the retreat.

What types of activities will we have on the retreat?
Retreat sessions will focus on the three pillars of ACE:  spirituality, community, and professional teaching.  Typical topics of conversation in past years have included discussions on the everyday experience of ACE, how to best support children who are teaching with ACE, life (including employment possibilities!) after ACE, adult spirituality, and the history and future of ACE and Catholic education.  Please visit our pre-registration form to indicate any topics of special interest to you.

What if my question is not answered here?
Please feel free to contact Meghann Kirzeder with any questions that should arise.  Meghann can be reached via email at kirzeder.5@nd.edu, or by phone at (574) 631-7804.

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