The change in the name of the library commons from Learning Resource Center to the ACE, the Academic Center of Excellence, has led to questions from the student body: What does this department offer? How can I get help from the ACE? What is new this year? The Academic Center of Excellence is an amazing resource for all students at Bellarmine, no matter the grade or the need.

The resource department in the library has been expanding for the past three years. As the needs of Bellarmine students become more and more diverse, the support provided to students has had to change to accommodate. “We want there to be on demand support, we want there to be middle line support, and we want there to be ongoing support for those who want that,” said Dr. Kelly Goodsell, ACE director.

The culture of the school changes every year, depending on the generation, curriculum, and more. The ACE department is committed to adapting and following the lead of the students. The department works for the students, and with the students, for their growth and success in high school, as well as to develop important skills for their academic career in college, and their career beyond.

Along with direct support, the Academic Center of Excellence is leading the way to research and library science opportunities for all students, not just those involved in the Marine Chemistry or Capstone programs. Expanding this makes students more prepared for college coursework that involves a lot of independent study.

“We run a 100% college model,” said Goodsell, and the ACE department is keeping their word. Bellarmine is proud of its rigor, but also understands that as students learn challenging and important content, they may need additional support with the help of faculty and staff, who can help expand their thinking and use of resource materials such as technology.

Beyond grades, the library space is a place where students can own their own learning, and also have support for their mental and emotional health and needs. Goodsell explains that “we wanted a place where it wasn’t all necessarily about student grades, but their needs, desires, and what they need to feel fully supported.”

Want to get involved with the incredible and expansive ACE department to accelerate your own learning? Bellarmine’s Academic Center of Excellence is open Monday, Tuesday, and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., and Fridays from 8a.m. to 3 p.m., for individualized and group support from all the wonderful faculty in the ACE, which also includes teachers Lauren Doscher, Kristen Gormley, Kelli Rosati, and other staff tutors and volunteers.

There are drop-in labs for Math, Writing, Theology, Spanish and French, and Library Research every week. Students looking for one-on-one support and tutoring can also email Goodsell at [email protected], or Doscher at [email protected].