Mater Dei Services
Mater Dei ~ Mother of God
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
Psalm 139
At The Basilica School of Saint Mary, our Mater Dei program is designed to provide exceptional support for students with intellectual disabilities, ensuring they thrive academically and socially alongside their peers.
The Mater Dei teaching team collaborates with general education teachers to modify the curriculum so that students with intellectual or developmental disabilities can access their grade-level curriculum. Our school’s inclusive model strives to have students spend the majority of their day with their peers in general classrooms while still receiving individualized instruction in reading and math.
To receive more information, contact Mrs.Monica Davin at mdavin@smsva.org
Understanding Minds, Opening Hearts
At The Basilica School of Saint Mary, our Learning Support Team and Mater Dei educators host Inclusion Week, a week long schedule of special events which reflect our deep commitment to seeing every child as a beloved child of God. This special week brings our whole school community together to learn about the power of inclusion. Students hear from inspiring guest speakers, watch stories of individuals who have overcome stereotypes, and grow in compassion and understanding. It’s one of the many ways we help students live out their faith with empathy, dignity, and joy.
Porto Charities, LCC recognizes our school as an Inclusive Catholic School. The grants awarded by Porto Charities, give us the opportunity to grow our inclusive practices.
FAQs
- What is the difference between modifications and accomodations?
- Will my child receive a high school diploma?
- What resources or curriculum is used with Mater Dei Services?
What is the difference between modifications and accomodations?
Will my child receive a high school diploma?
What resources or curriculum is used with Mater Dei Services?
First grade teacher Mrs. Kimberly Lusch was awarded the St. Margaret Castello Inclusive Educator Award at the 2024 Porto Charities Embrace Inclusion Gala.
Principal Loia and Mrs. Davin, Mater Dei Services Director, receive a $20,000 check from Porto Charities. This non-profit organization supports children and adults with intellectual disabilities in the Catholic Diocese of Arlington.
Paralympian Matt Simpson, guest speaker during Inclusion Week 2025, shared how discovering the sport of goalball empowered him to embrace his blindness and realize his full athletic potential. Speaking to students during a school assembly, he reminded them that true inclusion is rooted in our Catholic faith—that we are all created in the image and likeness of God.
Charlotte Woodward is a representative of the National Down Syndrome Society. In 2024, she spoke to the school about her accomplishments, including graduating from George Mason University and having the Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act, which prevents those waiting for an organ transplant from being discriminated against due to intellectual or physical disabilities.
Students sporting Crazy mixed socks to support National Down Syndrome Day.