While it may not be uncommon for siblings to attend the same Catholic school, for one Vineland family, attending Saint Mary Regional School is almost like a rite of passage.
“Our family’s connection to Saint Mary School spans 28 years, and in that time, the school has been a source of both faith and friendship. Saint Mary School represents a shared commitment to the values we hold most dear – a love of God and a love of family,” said Kathleen Charlotte (Bifulco) Surace, a 1998 graduate, and the mother of a seventh- and eighth-grader. “Our children are growing up surrounded by cousins, friends and teachers who feel like extended family.”
The Vineland school has been a part of the family experience for nearly three decades, with five members counted among the school’s alumni. This school year, a total of 10 children in the family will be attending classes there.
Surace added that school principal Steven Hogan once taught the parents of the current students.
“The legacy is more than just years of attendance,” she said. “It is a shared story of passing on our faith and our values to the next generation.”
Besides Surace, alumni in the family include Umberto Bifulco IV (1997); Lisa (Bifulco) Venturi and her now-husband, Christopher Venturi Sr. (both from the Class of 2001); Gennaro Bifulco II (2003); and Umberto Joseph Bifulco (2007).
Current members of the family attending Saint Mary this year include Dominick Surace IV (eighth grade); Carmella Surace (seventh grade); Gemma Venturi (fifth grade); Christopher Venturi II (third grade); Umberto Bifulco V (third grade); Salvatore Bifulco (first grade); Maria Rose Bifulco (Pre-K3); Gennaro Bifulco III (third grade); Charlotte Bifulco (kindergarten); and Patrick Bifulco (Pre-K3).
“Our children love school and enjoy spending time with their cousins,” said parent and alumna Lisa Venturi. “For this year, and this year only, all 10 of the great-grandchildren of Charlotte Rose and the late Umberto Bifulco Jr. will be together at Saint Mary School, ranging from Pre-K3 to 8th grade.”
Venturi added that Catholic education runs deep in their family because of how academics are paired with faith.
“At Saint Mary’s, our children not only learn how to excel in their studies, but also they learn how to live with kindness and compassion,” she said. “The school’s close community and faith-centered focus makes it feel like an extension of our homes.”
The extended family has also left its mark on the school over the course of generations, with family members winning awards, volunteering and staying active with various associations. One parent has worked as the faculty school nurse, and another is the incoming PTA president, boys basketball coach and chairman of the Daddy/Daughter Dance.
“Over the years, each generation has contributed to the life of our school – whether through academic achievement, athletic participation, leadership or volunteer service,” said Kathy Gregorio, the school’s advancement director.
“We are honored to continue this legacy and celebrate the incredible connection between the Bifulco family and our school community,” she said. “Their presence reminds us that our mission extends beyond the present moment. A Catholic education is clearly a gift that lasts for generations.”
With siblings and cousins sharing the same hallways, Gregorio said, comes a special closeness and a set of shared experiences that can enhance each of their educational experiences.
“Siblings can share experiences, traditions and school events, which strengthens their bond and creates lasting memories,” she said. “Older siblings often serve as role models, offering guidance and support to their younger brothers, sisters or cousins as they navigate school life.”
Megan Bifulco, whose children are in Pre-K3, kindergarten and third grade this year, encourages other parents to consider a Catholic school like Saint Mary’s.
“When you choose a school for your children, you are choosing a place that will partner in raising them,” she said.
“The teachers don’t just know your child’s name, they know how to help them grow. If you want your child to be challenged academically, supported personally and guided spiritually, Saint Mary School is a place where they can thrive in all three.”
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