Charleston Catholic High School Newsletter

FROM 2008 JUNE NEWSLETTER IN YELLOW

Dear Parents and Students:

Dear Parents and Students:

               After Easter vacation, one of our families mentioned a serendipitous occurrence that reminded me, once again, of the extent of the reach of the Charleston Catholic community.  Stopping along the way during a swing south to attend a baseball tournament, family members returned to their car in a restaurant parking lot in one of the Carolinas only to find two business cards lodged under the car’s windshield wipers.  The CCHS shamrock on their car had drawn the attention of two alumni!  Brother and sister had graduated from CCHS in 2000 and 1995, respectively, and are now living and working in North and South Carolina.  In addition to noting their graduation years on the backs of the cards, one had written two sentiments:  “Small world!” and “Go Irish!” I vividly and fondly remember the two students and was delighted to hear from them in this round-about way as they reached out to touch the current generation.

               Events of this sort happen frequently and remind me just how special our Charleston Catholic community is.

During graduation, at the baccalaureate reception, at the eighth grade moving up ceremony and reception, at Symphony Sunday, at the Governor’s Mansion, at the Vandalia Gathering, at the Farmers’ Market, on downtown sidewalks, in the grocery store, and at Power games, I have been reminded how much so many of our students and parents -- and the community at large -- value Charleston Catholic. It’s not perfect; no institution is. But we’re able to examine our programs and operations, to make adjustments, and to set high standards for all involved. CCHS is recognized as a solid institution with a specific philosophy and mission, characterized by a strong belief in the sacredness of each person, academic excellence, respect, integrity, justice, service, and community.

               With over 84% of the class of 2009 joining us in middle school, and a whopping 93% having attended Catholic middle schools here in West Virginia or from other states, there is a prior commitment to the philosophy that pervades life here at school, a commitment that grows and reaches out to include all of our families.  I look at our middle schoolers and know that the program they have been a part of here is one that prepares them so well for our high school program.  The high school program then builds upon the foundation already existing and takes students to the next level.  Take a few minutes to focus on the information at the end of the newsletter and you will see how a Charleston Catholic education, admittedly a very challenging seven-year program, pays off at the next level and in life in general.

On a related note, I continue to be humbled by families’ voluntary contributions to the faculty and staff benefit Fund for Excellence. The response, including those who will be joining us for the first time in August, has been solid and sends, in a very tangible way, a strong message of thanks to faculty and staff for their role in shaping young people’s lives.

On behalf of the faculty and staff, I say “thank YOU” for sharing your children with us and for your trust and support throughout the school year. May your summer be filled with special blessings and with opportunities to enjoy family, friends, and the sun upon your faces. Celebrate!

Debra K. Sullivan, Principal

CONDOLENCES – Please keep our families who have experienced recent losses in your thoughts and prayers: Cameron Imani’s grandfather, Erica Cap’s mother, Ms. Colleen McCartney’s grandfather, and Ms. Ashley Shepler’s grandmother. May they rest in peace.

SUMMER OFFICE HOURS -- The school office will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. through June 26. The office will reopen Monday, August 3 at 9 a.m.

NEW AND USED TEXTBOOKS FOR 2009-2010 – Phase I of the process is complete! Parents liked the ease of turning in books to be resold and the ability to order new books from one source. The traditional book sale will be held in August during registration days. During August registration days, all elective used books will be available as well as books unsold in June. Please keep in mind that separate checks must be written for each used textbook purchased since the checks go directly to the sellers of the textbooks, not through CCHS. In fact, checks received for used textbooks sold at the June book sale have been mailed out in the SASEs families provided with each used book. That’s service!

If you still have a few old books you would like to sell in the August book sale, they will be accepted on August 10 and 11. Remember that each used book must have a stamped, self-addressed envelope with the name of the book written on the back of the envelope. CCHS will make an attempt to sell any unsold books throughout the year. We reserve the right to dispose of any books no longer required at CCHS.

At registration, students will receive their schedules and know all of their classes. New textbooks ordered by the June 12 deadline will be available for pick-up during August registration days on August 12 and 13. There will be an additional opportunity to order any new books. That new book order will be placed August 14^th. There will be one final ordering period for new books -- new book orders must be turned in no later than August 27. After that time families will have to order their own books. Please note that Spanish and French textbooks will be new next year and should not be purchased used. Latin books will remain the same. Please do not purchase used workbooks.

VIRTUS– All parents or other adults who volunteer, coach, drive students, chaperone, etc., are required by the Diocese to complete the diocesan sexual abuse awareness training before being allowed to work with our students. Complete information, links, and forms are on the CCHS website. Please contact Ms. FitzGerald with questions. The next Virtus training session is scheduled for Thursday, August 20, at 6 p.m. Please pre-register at www.virtusonline.org.

COMMUNITY SERVICE AND FINE ARTS/HUMANITIES REQUIREMENTS – Students who attended CCHS during the 2008-09 school year may begin to fulfill next year’s community service and fine arts/humanities requirements during the summer months. These activities must be submitted during the first quarter in order to receive credit. 6^th graders and other students new to CCHS in 2009-10 may not begin to work on these requirements until after the requirements are discussed in theology and English classes in August.

2009-2010 REGISTRATION DAYS -- The following times have been set aside for students to pick up their schedules, pay class fees, buy used textbooks, order new textbooks, and pick up/buy gym uniforms. Student schedules are completed during the summer months and will not be available until August registration days. Schedules for each particular grade level will only be available during the times listed below, so it is critical that parents and students adhere to the schedule listed. If families with more than one child would like to pick up schedules and so on for all their children at one time, they must come on Thursday, August 13, from 2:30 - 4 p.m. At all other times, schedules and other items for each grade level listed will be the only ones handled at particular time slots. There will be no exceptions.

Wednesday, August 12 9 - 10:30 a.m: Seniors only

10:30 – noon: Juniors only

CLOSED NOON - 1 P.M.

1 - 2:30 p.m.: Sophomores only

2:30 - 4 p.m.: Freshmen only

Thursday, August 13 9 - 10:30 a.m.: 8th graders only

10:30 – noon: 7th graders only

CLOSED NOON - 1 P.M.

1 - 2:30 p.m.: 6th graders only

2:30 - 4 p.m.: Families with more than one student wishing to register all their children at one time; also, anyone unable to come at scheduled times

CCHS SHAMROCK CLASSIC TENNIS TOURNAMENT AND PIG ROAST – After three very successful experiences, the Shamrock Classic is back on tap for September 18 – 20. This year’s weekend event at the CCHS Athletic Complex is sure to be even bigger and better! The doubles’ tennis tournament starts on Friday evening, September 18, and runs through Sunday, September 20 with the pig roast scheduled for Saturday evening. Anyone who would like to volunteer to help or to get other information should contact Lisa Dobbins (346-4995) or Kelly and David Sadd (344-0651). This is a fun activity to get involved in! Tickets for the pig roast as well as entry forms for the tennis tournament will be available at registration August 12-13. Funds raised last year helped every CCHS team in one way or another. Let’s do it again!

SCHOOL ACCREDITATION -- Charleston Catholic has been accredited by North Central Association of Schools for many years. As a piece of the accreditation process, we will be hosting a visiting team of NCA members in November who will spend two days at Charleston Catholic to accredit our school. In preparation for them, students, parents, and teachers are encouraged to think about what we do here at Charleston Catholic. Read the mission statement which is found at the top of the school’s webpage and in the student handbook, and tell us what you think. Does the statement correlate to what happens every day? Email the school through the feedback section of the website with your thoughts. This is an opportunity to get involved in the school in a different way!

RISING SENIORS -- Photo Graphix is the official CCHS yearbook photographer and will be sending out a letter to each senior before the end of June. Seniors should arrange to have photos taken at the studio this summer (5018 MacCorkle Avenue, one block before the Dunbar Toll Bridge). For those students ONLY WANTING THE “OFFICIAL PICTURE,” (i.e., suit jacket for boys, formal drape for girls), Mike Hall will set aside dates for CCHS seniors. Students wanting clothing changes and/or indoor/outdoor shots can call and make appointments (768-2000) any time during the summer. For pricing info, go to the website www.wvphoto.com. Seniors who have not had their Photo Graphix sitting by the time school pictures are taken in September will have their senior yearbook photo (one shot) taken at the same time as underclassmen .

ARE YOUR CHILDREN COMPLETING SUMMER PACKETS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL CLASSES FAILED DURING 2009-10 SCHOOL YEAR? – If so, they must take their end-of-summer final exams with Simone Thomas on Friday, August 7, at 9 a.m.

UNIFORM NOTES -- Thanks to suggestions gleaned from the ninth grade English research project, we are excited to announce some changes to the uniform. Beginning this fall, girls will have the option of 2 uniform skorts in addition to their old uniform skirts. After the 2009-10 school year, ONLY the approved skorts may be worn. Skorts can be ordered through Lands’ End School online at www.landsend.com/school or by phone at 1-800-469-2222. In addition, a green sweater vest from Land’s End may also be worn with the button-down white or blue shirts. Charleston Catholic has created a Preferred School Account with Lands’ End, meaning that when the preferred school number is used, 3% of the school’s net sales are returned to Charleston Catholic, and parents become eligible for discounts and free shipping. Register at http://www.landsend.com/ for e-mails. You will get several a week, but many times there are coupons for free shipping, 30% off, etc.

The Charleston Catholic preferred school number is 900133356. The skorts’ item numbers are 25021 (a navy two button stretch skort) and 23158 (a navy pleated twill skort). The uniform sweater vest’s item number is # 22301. The color that has been selected is “evergreen.” Check them out!

A REMINDER ABOUT UNIFORMS -- As you and your children enjoy the non-uniform days of summer, please keep an eye toward August and the return to CCHS expectations. Uniforms are part of the CCHS package – and, as the school year wound down, some uniforms were looking ratty (!). Please take time to go through your children’s uniforms now and discard anything that is FADED, worn, torn, or otherwise inappropriate in a business-type atmosphere. A full description of uniform guidelines may be found in the handbook on our CCHS website. If you have any questions about uniform guidelines please call Ms. FitzGerald in August. And a word about face piercings: Students will not be allowed to wear facial jewelry or “place holders.” So please discourage your children from doing anything rash until after they graduate from high school!

IF YOUR LAST NAME IS DIFFERENT FROM YOUR CHILD’S NAME – please put the child’s full name on checks issued to CCHS.

FAMILIES WISHING NEWSLETTERS/REPORT CARDS/PROGRESS REPORTS SENT TO 2 ADDRESSES – must send in 12 stamped addressed envelopes by the first week of August.

SUMMER REVIEW FOR PROSPECTIVE SPANISH II STUDENTS -- Recommended or required summer review for students planning to take Spanish 2 next year is available from Tri-C Publications and Mrs. Stone. Parents of students whose Spanish I grade was lower than a "C" will receive information about the review packet and retesting (prior to registration in August). Parents who feel that the review packet would be beneficial for their student should contact Mrs. Stone promptly (304-548-6086; 304-539-4285).

CALLING ALL SINGERS IN GRADES 6-8! The CCHS Choir needs you to help lead the student body in song during our school liturgies. There will be exploratories during the first quarter (only) for all those with a sincere interest in becoming part of the school's music ministry. In addition to learning old and new hymns and choir anthems, we will explore the role of music and cantors in the mass, effective singing techniques, basic music theory and vocabulary. Come let us sing joyfully unto the Lord! Contact Gail Stone for more information (304-548-6086; 304-539-4285).

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR FESTIVALL -- Volunteers will be needed to sit at exhibits, set up and take down art installations around the city, assist with games and activities for smaller children, assist at the dog races (Stonewall), run errands for FestivALL artists (on foot within a few blocks of FestivALL HQ on Capitol Street), and more. There are opportunities for both middle and high school volunteers. Please contact Rebecca Burch at (304) 982-0544 if you are interested. There are some gifts for volunteers, including event tickets and T-shirts (first come, first served.)

PLANT LOVERS -- The Science department would like to have an Heirloom Plant Sale next year. If any amateur gardener has some heirloom tomato plants, cucumber plants, or other heirloom plants, consider donating some seeds this fall to the Science department. Please place seeds in paper towels in a baggie, labeling each bag with as much information as possible, and send them to Mrs. Pulliam at CCHS. Mrs. Arnold will direct the planting and take care of the seedlings in the school’s greenhouse. We will plan on having a plant sale next spring with the profits benefiting the Quiz Bowl Team.

SUMMER READING -- Each CCHS student is required to read selections for upcoming English classes as part of the school’s summer reading program. Information about each book is on the CCHS website. Encourage your students to read these descriptions before starting to read so that they will get a preview of what is ahead. Tests will be given at the beginning of school in August – students should be prepared the first full day of school. Additional reading and writing activities involving the book(s) will occur during the first two weeks of school. Check Amazon.com to find less than list prices. No written responses are required during the summer but will be assigned after school begins. Reminder to students: Finish reading before school begins. Start the year with solid grades!

SUMMER READING LIST:

Grade 12: (required for all) All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque; plus, choose one of the following: A Parchment of Leaves by Silas House; or The Eyre Affair: A Thursday Next Novel by Jasper Fforde; or Heroes by Robert Cormier

Grade 11: (both books required for all) The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls and The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien

Grade 10: (required for all) The Beekeeper's Apprentice by Laurie R. King; plus, choose one of the following: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho or The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak

Grade 9: (both books are required for all) The House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer and Animal Farm by George Orwell

Grade 8: (both books are required for all) Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy by Gary D. Schmidt and Where the Lillies Bloom by Vera Cleaver

Grade 7: (both books are required for all) Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt and Fish by L.S. Matthews

Grade 6: (required for all) The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart and The Willoughbys by Lois Lowry

MRS. THOMAS’ TIPS --

1) SAT and ACT testing and registration information and registration is available online at -- www.collegeboard.org and www.act.org (CCHS code: 490-205).

2) Senior final transcripts will be mailed by June 23 to the colleges indicated by the students.

3) Class of 2010 (seniors) will need to complete their fine arts requirement by the end of the third quarter of their senior year and community service hours by the second Friday of May.

4) New students (except those from St. Agnes and Sacred Heart) must mail final report cards and achievement test results to the office by August 3.

5) Proof of Enrollment forms for drivers’ permits/licenses will not be processed again until classes begin in August.

6) College applications are due to Mrs. Thomas by November 2.

7) In the fall, Mrs. Thomas will schedule meetings for parents of rising 9^th, 11^th, and 12^th graders.

8) Stanford results are included for middle school students.

FALL SPORTS -- Students must have a completed doctor’s physical (administered after June 1, 2009) to give coaches on the first day of practice. This physical is good for the entire school year. Once teams have been selected, students participating on teams must turn in their athletic fees ($75 per sport) before uniforms will be issued. A student who has not turned in athletic uniforms from another sport will not be permitted to participate in the next sport. CCHS students in grades 7-12 are eligible for athletics if they meet SSAC requirements (including having 2.0 GPA at end of 2008-09 second semester) and CCHS expectations, i.e., a 2.0 or better at the quarter, good behavior. Sixth graders are encouraged to continue involvement in community and recreational sports leagues. If you have questions about fall sports – how to get involved, when practices start, and so on -- please contact Bill Gillispie, CCHS athletic director, at 550-5702. Fall sports offered are: middle school (grades 7/8) – boys’ and girls’ soccer, volleyball, cross country, and cheerleading; high school – cross country, cheerleading, golf, boys’ and girls’ soccer, volleyball. For cross country (grades 7 – 12), please call Scott Welch (344-3006). Girls interested in playing middle school soccer should contact Benton Erskine at bser@suddenlink.net. Rising 7^th and 8^th graders who are interested in basketball may choose to attend optional gym practice on these dates:

Girls – Monday through Friday, June 15 through 19 and 22 through 26 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Boys – Monday through Wednesday, June 15 through 17 and 22 through 24 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

STUDENTS NEW TO CCHS–New students (7^th grade or higher) who have already been accepted to CCHS for the 2009-10 school year who are interested in playing fall sports should contact Bill Gillispie, our athletic director, for information (550-5702 or cchsathletics@yahoo.com).

SCIENCE IN THE SUMMER- - Mrs. Toni Erby and Mrs. Amy Arnold, science teachers at CCHS, are offering a science camp for rising 6^th graders. From Astronomy to Zoology, this camp will cover many aspects of science with a hands-on approach. The camp will be held from June 23^rd to June 26^th from 9 am to 3 pm. The cost is $235.00. Contact Mrs. Arnold or Mrs. Erby at (304) 342-8415, arnoldad1@yahoo.com or tonyaerby@yahoo.com if you are interested in enrolling your child.

REPORT ON 2008-09 ATHLETIC PROGRAMS -- Charleston Catholic had another great year in athletics! In fact, for the fifth time since the competition began 13 years ago, Charleston Catholic is the West Virginia Class A GEISA champion, signifying all-around athletic success. Standings are based on a system that awards points (8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1) to the top eight finishers in the 19 sports sanctioned by the Secondary School Activities Commission.

At the high school level, the volleyball team advanced to the State Tournament for the second consecutive year, while the boys' and girls’ cross-country teams again appeared at the State Meet after winning the regional meet. The golf team was state A/AA runner-up and has finished first or second in the state five years in a row. The girls’ soccer team became the first in school history to win a state championship. The boys’ team advanced to the State Tournament for the first time in five years. Both middle school soccer teams were successful, with the boys’ team becoming Kanawha County champs and the girls’ recording a winning season. Middle school cross country and volleyball had successful seasons.

Winter sports brought boys’ and girls’ basketball at middle and high school levels, as well as swimming for the high school. Both high school basketball teams appeared at the State Tournament and became state runners-up with the boys’ team appearing in its fifth consecutive State Championship game. The girls’ swim team won the school’s second consecutive regional championship, and both boys’ and girls’ teams had excellent showings at the State Meet. Both middle school basketball teams had strong (winning!) seasons.

Spring sports brought two more high school State Championships. Both the boys’ and girls’ tennis teams captured the A-AA State Championship- the boys’ fifth in six years and the girls’ eighth state title. The high school softball team had a successful winning season, but was unable to follow up on its 2008 state tournament appearance, its first since 1999. The baseball team won its sectional tournament and advanced to the regional tournament, finishing with a 22-10 record. The high school boys’ and girls’ track teams both competed in the State Meet and had another wonderful season. Middle school softball, baseball, and track had successful, winning seasons while the golf team captured Kanawha County runner-up status. Both middle school boys’ and girls’ tennis teams had undefeated seasons and won the Kanawha County championship.

Overall, CCHS made the State Tournament in 14 of the 17 high school varsity sports the school offers. Of those 14 sports, CCHS finished in the top 8 fourteen times.

We are proud of the hard work and dedication shown by our athletes and coaches. Many valuable lessons are learned from their athletic competitions. Congratulations to all of our athletes and coaches for another spectacular year!

NOTES FROM THE PARENT VOLUNTEER ASSOCIATION (PVA) – 1) PVA Polos and Fleece - Pre-orders placed in May will be available for pick up at August registration. IMPORTANT UPDATE: The charcoal gray fleece jackets worn by CCHS high school students are being phased out. A student currently owning a charcoal gray fleece that is in good shape and still fits may wear that fleece during the '09-'10 school year. 2) INNISBROOK ORDERS – may be placed throughout the year and will be shipped directly to you -- and CCHS will get credit for your order. Go to www.innisbrook.com and click on “Buy Innisbrook Products” and enter CCHS school number 121949. Contact Lisa Dundervill (344-2566) for more information. 3) Cafeteria Volunteers: If you are interested in helping in the cafeteria for the interim schedule (August and September 2009) please send your name, email address, complete mailing address (street, city, and zip code) and phone number to Chrissy Hovorka at 343-8040 or chovorka@suddenlink.net. The regular cafeteria volunteer schedule for October 2009 through June 2010 will be completed for the school year after volunteers submit their CCHS Cafeteria Volunteer Form following 2009-2010 school registration. 4) CARE OF UNIFORM FLEECE – Parents have reported that the best way to retain the shape and the consistency of the fabric is to NOT dry the fleece with a fabric softener sheet or include fabric softener in the wash cycle. Line drying is recommended.

IMMUNIZATION NEWS – In an effort to keep all of our students healthy, we ask you to check with your doctor to see if your child’s immunizations are up to date. If you have any updates to your records, please provide a copy to the office.

Required immunizations: 4 or more doses of DTaP, the last one after the 4^th birthday

3 or more doses of IPV (Polio), the last one after the 4^th birthday

2 doses of MMR, the first one after the first birthday

3 doses of HepB (Hepatitis)

2 doses of Varicella (Chicken Pox)

Recommended immunizations: 1 dose Tdap (Tetanus Booster)

3 doses of HPV (Cervical Cancer)

1 dose of MCV4 (meningitis)

Annual flu shot

DO YOU HAVE A DVD PLAYER AND/OR UNIVERSAL REMOTE CONTROLS THAT YOU’RE NOT USING? -- We seem to always be in need of the players and we have a couple of remote controls that just won't work anymore. Your cast-offs could get new life at CCHS!

SUMMER TUTORING – Patricia Noronha is available for math tutoring. Please contact her at 344-8756.

HOW TO WIN FRIENDS AND INFLUENCE PEOPLE – Our commencement speaker, Sarah James Irby (CCHS class of 1989 and Vice President of Global Makeup Marketing at Estee Lauder Companies), offered so many wonderful insights during her remarks. Several of our graduates were intrigued by her reference to Dale Carnegie’s 1936 book How to Win Friends and Influence People. Here is a summary of his still-referred to text, one filled with so many words of wisdom regarding the importance of having good “people skills.” Wouldn’t the world be a better place if everyone followed these basic guidelines?

Fundamental Techniques in Handling People: 1) Don’t criticize, condemn or complain; 2) Give honest and sincere appreciation; 3) Arouse in the other person an eager want.

Six Ways to Make People Like You: 1) Become genuinely interested in other people; 2) Smile; 3) Remember that a person’s name is to that person the sweetest and most important sound in any language; 4) Be a good listener and encourage others to talk about themselves; 5) Talk in terms of the other person’s interests; 6) Make the other person feel important – and do it sincerely.

Win People to Your Way of Thinking: 1) The only way to get the best of an argument is to avoid it; 2) Show respect for the other person’s opinions; 3) If you are wrong, admit it quickly and emphatically; 4) Begin in a friendly way; 5) Get the other person saying “yes, yes” immediately; 6) Let the other person do a great deal of the talking; 7) Let the other person feel that the idea is his or hers; 8) Try honestly to see things from the other person’s point of view; 9) Be sympathetic with the other person’s ideas and desires; 10) Appeal to the nobler motives; 11) Dramatize your ideas; 12) Throw down a challenge.

Be a Leader: How to Change People without Giving Offense or Arousing Resentment: 1) Begin with praise and honest appreciation; 2) Call attention to people’s mistakes indirectly; 3) Talk about your own mistakes before criticizing the other person; 4) Ask questions instead of giving direct orders; 5) Let the other person save face; 6) Praise the slightest improvement and praise every improvement; 7) Give the other person a fine reputation to live up to; 8) Use encouragement; 9) Make the other person happy about doing the thing you suggest.

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITY – A new and unique investment could be in store for you! Charleston Catholic is now selling 3 foot by 6 foot customizable banners for advertisements at the CCHS Athletic Facility. The banners will hang behind the basketball teams’ benches (opposite the fans). What a great way to reach out to the Charleston Catholic community! To learn more and order a banner for your business, contact Kathy Crain at (304)541-4182.

THANK YOU –

- to the PVA board and committee members and to everyone who was involved in activities throughout the year – we couldn’t do it without you! So much good is being done through this group’s efforts. No words are adequate!

- to CCHS staff, supportive parents, dedicated coaches, loyal alumni, Monsignor Sadie, and others in the community who collaborated to make the 2008-09 school year so successful academically, spiritually, personally, and athletically for the student body.

- to the Class of 2009 for their class gift. During our recent graduation ceremony, they announced their desire to use remaining class funds to help refurbish the entryway of the school. As part of this effort, the walls, handrails, and steps will be repainted; new stairtreads will be installed; and the front door will be repainted and fitted with new hardware. If anyone has a suggestion on how to keep our American flag from wrapping around the pole, please let Mrs. Sullivan know. CCHS has the best located flagpole in Charleston, so to fly our American flag without worrying about “flag wrap” would be wonderful! Many thanks to the class of 2009 for getting us going on this project!

- to PVA for hosting a farewell reception for retiring teachers Ann Hamm and Gail Stone and for Beth Vickers who is relocating to Colorado. Many thanks, too, for all who came to share their good wishes with the teachers.

- to math teachers Ann Hamm and Beth Vickers, and to Spanish teacher Gail Stone, for sharing themselves so generously with the Charleston Catholic community for so many years. We wish them well in their upcoming adventures. We’re pleased that Mrs. Stone has agreed to stay on at CCHS on a part-time basis to continue building our music program.

- to chairpersons Cindy Persily and Trisha Dexter and every one who volunteered for the reception for the 8th grade moving up ceremony including Crystal Dupay, Rita Passero, Ruth Joseck, Kelly Breese, Debbie Brafford, Feli McKown, Maria Femia, Judy Hamilton, Kelli Massinople, Paige Carney-Salgado, Penny Jennette, and Susan Small. The baked goods were fabulous, the punch turned out to be perfect for a warm night, and the good help of everyone who assisted with set up, serving, and clean up was so appreciated! Special thanks to students who helped throughout the afternoon and evening, including Allie Persily, Kristy Gennette, Molly Plante, Matthew Brafford, and Gina Marks. Thanks again for making the reception special for the 8th grade families--we heard only compliments from all!!

- to Russ Miller for his COUNTLESS HOURS spent at CCHS athletic, graduation, and other events, taking thousands (millions?) of pictures for our families and the school. What a selfless gesture to benefit members of the school community!

- to Bill Gillispie and Eric Bailey for overseeing the CCHS golf tournament in May and for all those who supported this venture through their sponsorships and play.

- to the 44 CCHS students who are working on 12 houses during HOPE (Housing Outreach Project Express) at the end of June in Clay County, improving living conditions for needy families. Special thanks to the adults, including alumni, who took vacation days to lead work crews. Many thanks to Clay County Schools personnel and members of the Catholic Church of the Risen Lord at Maysel for going out of their way to make housing and dining arrangements for our HOPE crew. Many thanks, too, to all who donated funds to support this remarkable project. All monies go directly into the project, buying construction supplies and other necessary items. Deepest appreciation goes to Jim Weimer, HOPE construction superintendent, and CCHS theology teacher Bill Mehle, who spend the year making contacts, working with students and community members to organize, raise money, train, and then “do” HOPE. This project truly makes a difference in the lives of our less fortunate neighbors.

- to Project Graduation chairs Dena Wilcox and Shannon Lane and the Project Graduation committee members, volunteers, and sponsors who made the all-night celebration such a memorable and fantastic experience for the Class of 2009, the CCHS junior class, and their guests. We particularly thank Grace Kim, Michael Tupta, Sara Busse, Lisa Dobbins, Kim Gregory, Mary Crigger, Georgette George, Joan and Frank Baldwin, Kay Skeens, Carla and Vince Stricker, Christy Prudnick, Mike McKown, and John and Janet Willson. Special thanks to all the businesses and individuals who supported this party with their generous contributions:

- to Traci Lough and to all who helped create a classy, delicious, beautifully decorated reception following Baccalaureate, including committee members Lisa Wood, Kathleen Bors, Lisa Dundervill, Feli McKown, Jeanne Jarrett, Debbie Bogan, and Sarah Casey. Special thanks to Kimberly Asseff and her sister-in-law, Terry of Terry Asseff Designs who printed the invitations for free. Thanks also to Mary Crigger, Barbie Covelli, Lisa Moore, Debra Basham, Missy Deer, Sharon Erskine, Karen Rodgers, Eileen Goldberg, Erin and Emma Casey, Emily Crigger and all the freshman parents who contributed baked goods, as well as the freshman students who volunteered their time over the holiday weekend to help set up. What a wonderful celebration for our graduates and their families and friends!

- to Cindy Harris and everyone who helped organize, prepare, and clean up after the middle school athletic banquet. Special thanks to Gary Lane and the staff at the Pope John XXIII Center for all their support in making this an enjoyable evening for all and with amazing attendance!

- to 7^th/8^th grade teacher Toni Erby for organizing the sixth annual eighth-grade-downtown-litter-pick-up. Our 75 8^th graders spent a morning combing downtown streets and riverbank to rid our neighborhood of debris. Thanks, too, to parents and staff who helped supervise the students!

- to Judith Whipkey, Diane Beckerle, LuAnn Summers, Janet Kawash, Michael Kawash, Jeff Summers, Meredith Summers, Nick Beckerle, Dylan Rosenliev, Dena Wilcox, Adele Bobinger, Scarlett Hutchison, Loretta Goolsby, Jill Helmick, Mackenzie Helmick, Paula Durst, Rhonda Blackburn, Kim Asseff, Ben Beckerle, Marsha Hoyer, Andy Hoyer, Erika Bailey, Peri Bailey, and Ike Joseph and others who worked with Kate FitzGerald and other school personnel to sort, price, arrange, and sell used textbooks. A massive undertaking!!!

- to Marilyn Urecki for offering a vegetarian cooking class, followed by a hearty lunch, for CCHS faculty and staff – a wonderful way to end the year!

CONGRATULATIONS

- to class of 2009 valedictorian Matthew Goolsby and to salutatorian John Alan Willis.

- to Natalie Tupta, recipient of the Mary Ferretti Memorial Scholarship, a cash award toward college tuition.

- to Stephen Gresham, recipient of the CCHS Alumni Award.

- to Chelsea Steelhammer, recipient of the Les Cotto-Thorner Memorial Award for Outstanding Community Service.

- to Julia Miller, recipient of the Mary Hart Brennan Creative Writing Award.

- to award recipients: John Daly (Rensselaer Science Award), Clodagh Tinney (Harvard Book Award), Alexandra George and Harrison Kesner (HOBY).

- to Alex MacDonald, recipient of the Mary Jennings Memorial Scholarship, and to Simone Assaley, recipient of the Charleston Catholic High School Scholarship of Merit, each worth $4000 toward tuition during the high school years.

- to Samantha Fletcher and Kiefer Hovorka, recipients of the Bobby Hypes Memorial Scholarship, one supported by the class of 2008 and one supported by CCHS, in honor of Bobby Hypes, deceased member of the class of 2008.

- to Carly Treister, Dani Sensabaugh, Mary Anderson, Nicole Johns, Kari Soulsby, Lyndsey Gallian, Catherine Rembrandt, Carissa Shuler, Brittney Hoyer, Haley Schlarb, and Erin Lane , whose art was selected for the FestivALL student art exhibit at the Charleston Town Center.

- to 8^th graders who had perfect attendance for grades 6, 7, and 8: Blake Collias and Nelson McKown.

- to 8^th graders who earned all A’s during their 6 semesters of middle school at CCHS: Marcus Black, Domenic Cipollone, Sami Harris, Jad Malas.

- to 8^th graders who performed numerous extra service hours: Ellie Grubb and Rachel Lee.

- to the Drama Club students and sponsor Mr. Fix and other adults who helped stage the third production of the year, a comedy loosely based on “Romeo and Juliet.”

- to our high school Quiz Bowl team for its strong performance at the National Quiz Bowl in New Orleans, placing 13^th out of over 50 teams. This is the first time a CCHS Quiz Bowl team has made it to the final rounds of a national tournament!

- to all of our students and staff for all of their accomplishments this year!

CALENDAR FOR 2009-10 SCHOOL YEAR – This calendar is being provided to help families plan for the next school year. With this information in hand, families should be able to look ahead and avoid student absences for family trips or other occasions. At the end of each semester, students must make up time missed for illness or other non-school related reasons (more than 5 absences per semester in any class) in order for class credit to be granted. Please note exam days -- students must take exams on the days/times when the exams are scheduled.

CALENDAR FOR 2009-10

Monday/Tuesday, August 10/11 last opportunity to turn in used textbooks for resale

Wednesday, August 12 registration for grades 9 – 12

9 - 10:30 a.m: Seniors only

10:30 – noon: Juniors only

CLOSED NOON - 1 P.M.

1 - 2:30 p.m.: Sophomores only

2:30 - 4 p.m.: Freshmen only

Thursday, August 13 registration for grades 6 – 8

9 - 10:30 a.m.: 8th graders only

10:30 – noon: 7th graders only

CLOSED NOON - 1 P.M.

1 - 2:30 p.m.: 6th graders only

2:30 - 4 p.m.: Families with more than one student wishing to register all their children at one time; also, anyone unable to come at scheduled times

Friday, August 14 new textbook order submitted for orders placed August 12/13

Wednesday, August 19 first day for students

Thursday, August 20 Virtus training for adults 6 p.m. at CCHS

Thursday, August 27 last date for new textbook orders to be placed (after this date, families will have to purchase on their own)

Thursday/Friday, September 3/4 senior retreat

Monday, September 7 Labor Day – no school

Friday – Sunday, September 18 – 20 Shamrock Classic and Pig Roast (Saturday)

Saturday, September 26 Homecoming games and high school dance

Wednesday, November 11 Veterans’ Day – no school

Wednesday, November 25 11:30 dismissal for Thanksgiving

Wednesday-Friday, December 16 – 18 exams

Monday, December 21 first day of Christmas vacation

Monday, January 4 classes resume

Monday, January 18 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – no school

Week of January 24 Catholic Schools Week

Monday, February 15 Presidents’ Day – no school

Friday, April 2 Good Friday – first day of Easter break

Monday, April 12 classes resume

Saturday, April 24 Prom

Saturday, May 29 baccalaureate PLEASE NOTE CHANGE IN DATE!

Sunday, May 30 graduation PLEASE NOTE CHANGE IN DATE

Monday, May 31 Memorial Day – no school

Wednesday-Friday, June 2-4 exams for grades 6 – 11

Congratulations,

Charleston Catholic High School

Class of 2009!

NOTES ON THE CLASS OF 2009

- 84% entered CCHS in middle school

- 93% attended Catholic middle schools either in West Virginia or in other states across the nation

- 91% participated in middle school sports and 81% in high school sports

- 99% participated in athletics and other extracurricular activities during their years at CCHS

- 12% were named National Merit Finalists, a national recognition bestowed upon the top 1% of college-bound students

- 67% qualified for the PROMISE scholarship

- 50% were named Top of the Mountain Scholars (GPA of 3.5 or higher and high ACT/SAT scores)

- were offered over $5.3 million in academic, leadership, athletic, and service scholarships and awards

- took a total of 114 Advanced Placement exams

-contributed over 5,000 community service hours during senior year

The senior class of 2009 will be attending the colleges and universities in bold (36). All other colleges listed are schools where the students have been accepted.

Congratulations,

Xavier University