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ARCHBISHOP SHAW HOUSEHOLD SYSTEM
Building Brotherhood and Purpose
We believe that education is more than just academics—it’s about forming character, fostering community, and inspiring a sense of belonging.
That’s why we’ve created our unique Household system, a vibrant structure that unites students from across grade levels into four cohorts, each guided by the inspiring lives of extraordinary saints: Carlo Acutis, Pier Giorgio Frassati, Francis de Sales, and Dominic Savio.
Meet the Saints
Each Household is named after a saint whose life exemplifies virtues we strive to instill in our students—faith, courage, kindness, and a passion for living fully. Here’s who they are and what they stand for:
Blessed Carlo Acutis
(1991-2006)
Known as the “patron saint of the internet,” Carlo Acutis was a modern teen who loved video games, technology, and, above all, his faith. Diagnosed with leukemia at 15, he offered his suffering for others and used his tech skills to create a website cataloging Eucharistic miracles, spreading God’s love worldwide.
Carter Newsham
Prefect
Zach Tran
Vice Prefect
Caleb Williams
Vice Prefect
Hiram Garza
Vice Prefect
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati
(1901-1925)
A young Italian known for his infectious joy, Pier Giorgio Frassati lived life to the fullest—climbing mountains, helping the poor, and radiating faith through action. Despite his wealthy background, he gave tirelessly to those in need, dying at 24 from polio contracted while serving others.
Gavin Richard
Prefect
Jasper Parker
Vice Prefect
Dacati Richardson
Vice Prefect
Ryan Nguyen
Vice Prefect
Saint Francis de Sales
(1567-1622)
A bishop, writer, and doctor of the Church, Francis de Sales was a master of gentleness and patience, teaching that holiness is accessible to everyone. His famous motto, “Be who you are and be that well,” encourages authenticity and kindness in all things.
Ivan Smith
Prefect
Noah Kassahun
Vice Prefect
Joshua Collins
Vice Prefect
Trystan Evans
Vice Prefect
Saint Dominic Savio
(1842-1857)
A student of St. John Bosco, Dominic Savio became a saint by age 14 through his cheerful spirit and unwavering commitment to goodness. His famous words, “I’d rather die than sin,” reflect his dedication to purity and joy in small acts of virtue.
D’Artanian Miller
Prefect
Evan O’Quain
Vice Prefect
Benjamin Bullard
Vice Prefect
Austin Amadeo
Vice Prefect
About the Household System
The Household system at Archbishop Shaw began in 2021, sparked by the vision of Mr. Benjamin Russo, then Assistant Head of School for Student Formation. Designed to ignite student participation, foster teamwork, and instill a sense of accomplishment, this innovative model united students across grade levels under the banners of four remarkable saints—Acutis, Frassati, De Sales, and Savio. More than just a structure, it was created to give students figures of holiness to emulate, guiding them to live with purpose, pride, and faith. Since its launch, the Households have become the cornerstone of our community, shaping a legacy of connection and growth.
HOUSE POINTS & THE GOLDEN EAGLE
A Tradition of Excellence
In our Household system, every act of virtue, leadership, and teamwork counts. Throughout the year, students earn House Points for their respective Households—Acutis, Frassati, De Sales, and Savio—through academic achievements, acts of service, participation in school events, and exemplifying the spirit of their patron saint. These points fuel a friendly competition that drives camaraderie and pride, culminating in the coveted Golden Eagle award.
Earning Points
House Points are awarded by teachers and staff for a variety of efforts—think excelling in a class project, volunteering for a community initiative, or showing kindness that reflects a Household’s values. Every point is a step toward victory and a testament to the strength of the team.
Semester Showdowns
At the end of each semester, we tally the points to see which Household rises above the rest. The winner earns the Golden Eagle, a symbol of honor and excellence, proudly displayed on their House banner until the next quarter’s challenge end. It’s a rotating trophy that keeps the excitement alive all year long.
Br. Dave Verrett Award
This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior who has served as a prefect in a House that wins the Golden Eagle during the fall and/or spring semester. The recipient has demonstrated exceptional dedication, giving generously of his time and talent in service to his House and the wider school community.
Current House Point Totals
House Acutis
House Frasatti
House De Sales
House Savio
Why the Household Model Matters
The Household system is the heartbeat of our school community. By bringing together students from different grade levels into these four cohorts, we create a dynamic environment where mentorship, camaraderie, and pride flourish. Here’s how it works and why it’s so powerful:
Fraternity Across Ages
Older students mentor younger ones, sharing wisdom and support, while younger students bring fresh energy and admiration. This cross-grade connection builds lasting bonds, turning classmates into brothers in a shared journey.
Pride in Identity
Each Household has its own saint, colors, and traditions, giving students a banner to rally under. Whether it’s competing in school events, collaborating on service projects, or cheering each other on, students take pride in their Household and the values it represents.
A Sense of Belonging
In a world that can feel fragmented, the Household system offers a home within our school. Students know they’re part of something bigger—a family united by faith, purpose, and mutual respect.
Leadership and Virtue
Guided by their patron saints, students are challenged to embody virtues like courage, kindness, and perseverance. The Households inspire them to lead by example, both within their cohort and in the wider school community.
YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE
Start Your Application Today
Join the Household Legacy
The Household system is where students discover their strengths, forge lifelong friendships, and grow into leaders grounded in faith and purpose. Whether they’re drawn to Acutis’s tech-savvy spirit, Frassati’s adventurous heart, De Sales’s gentle wisdom, or Savio’s youthful joy, every student finds a place to grow in virtue.
Ready to be part of something extraordinary? Join us and step into a Household where fraternity and service come alive.
Create Your Legacy Today
Speak with the Office of Advancement and find out more options for giving. Create a legacy that will impact generations to come.