CATHOLIC CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL
Catholic Central High School challenges students to know and love God, seek
knowledge and truth, respect the dignity of each person, and contribute to
society through leadership and service.
From the Principal’s Desk
School Newsletter
August/September 2016
Dear Catholic Central Families,
I hope this newsletter finds you and your family enjoying the pace and the warmth of summer! Surely, these next few weeks
are cherished times and I hope you’re taking full advantage of them with your friends and family. This summer has been
unlike any other with the anticipation of the CAT coming to reality. Know that I am eager to reunite with you and our students in the near future as we continue our students’ formation in the Catholic tradition.
The CAT renovations are nearly complete, and the entire complex is simply stunning. Those who have seen it recently have
cried, giggled in disbelief, and experienced a plethora of other emotions. I hope to see you at the CAT Celebration Day on
8.20.16, which is a major event. I would strongly encourage you (and your spouse/sibling/etc.) to volunteer at this event if
you can. Volunteer sign up: http://signup.com/go/gLV939
While there is much to celebrate with the grand opening of the CAT, I’d be remiss if I did not put the celebration in the context of our Catholic high school. I ask parents and alumni for your support in refraining from consuming alcohol at high
school sporting events. It is important to model positive behaviors and healthy choices for our adolescents, and to understand circumstances of time and place. While the CAT is Catholic Central’s “Home,” we must still respect the rules and
norms of the OK Conference, the MHSAA, and the Diocese of Grand Rapids. We believe it is our duty – with you as our partners – to create an environment where all students feel loved, respected, and challenged to be the best version of themselves
each day. Thank you for your cooperation.
I’m pleased to announce two new hires to our staff. Dr. Catherine Molloseau has joined our staff as the Director of STEM
education. Originally from Michigan, Dr. Molloseau joins us after 12 years of teaching experience, curriculum review and
implementation, and program development at Oregon Episcopal and Portland Jesuit High Schools in Portland, OR. She
earned a Ph.D in Materials Science and Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University, a Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University, and a Bachelor of Science in Metallurgical Engineering from Michigan Technological University. Catherine also brings tremendous industry experience to our school and is excited to join our
Catholic community.
Julie VanderMolen, CC class of ’86, has joined our staff as our newest member of the science department. Mrs. VanderMolen joins us after a 26 year career where she served as a teacher at Kentwood public schools and a Science & Math Curriculum Specialist for the Grand Rapids public schools. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Science and Math Education from Central Michigan University and a Master of Science in Science Education from Western Michigan University. Mrs.
VanderMolen will be teaching biology and anatomy this coming year, and is thrilled to begin working at her alma mater.
Thank you for your confidence and support in helping to create a Christ-centered environment. I encourage you to join us in
expanding the Catholic Central experience for our students in the 2016-17 school year.
While there is ample information within this newsletter (including important dates), do not hesitate to contact us by phone at
616-233-5890 or by email at [email protected] if you have any questions.
I wish you many blessings in the upcoming academic year, and I look forward to seeing all of the students at orientation
(Freshmen, 8/25 or Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors on 8/26) and all parents at the CAT Celebration Day (8/20) or the Welcome Back evening (9/7).
Looking forward to a banner year for CC!
In Christ, Greg Deja
Important Phone Numbers
Main Office:
Attendance:
233-5890
233-5812
Guidance Office: 233-5810
Athletic Office:
233-5898
Business Office: 233-5981
Greg Deja, Principal,CEO
Linda Olejnik, Assistant Principal
Michael Jacob, Dean of Students
Heidi Clark-Smitley, Director of Guidance
Trevor Hinshaw, Athletic Director
Dennis Rybicki, Campus Minister
Mary Ottenwess, Technology Director
Jackie Stetson, Admissions
From the Assistant Principal
I hope you’ve had a great summer and that you are as excited about the start of a new school year as we are.
The first few days bring the comfort of the familiar school events – greeting old friends and meeting new
ones, taking school pictures, our welcoming assembly, and of course, our first school mass. From there we
launch into the promise and opportunities of a new school year with expanded course offerings and learning
in all areas enriched by the work our teachers and students have done to prepare for this year.
AP Capstone Program - For the first time, this year we will award AP Capstone diplomas to a diverse group
of students who will have spent two years developing their inquiry, research, collaboration, and communication skills in a college-level program. In the first-year AP Seminar program, they examined a range of realworld issues from a faith-based perspective, from the Syrian Refugee Crisis, to the consequences of mass
food production, to improving multi-lingual education, among others, and presented and defended their evidence-based arguments at a Symposium at Cathedral Square. They have tested their research design and
delivery skills on the AP Seminar exam with a 92% passing rate. This year in AP Research, these students
will take on an individual, year-long research project, designed by them, based on their interests and talents
and under the guidance of a professional in their field of interest. Their culminating projects can take any
form: original works of art, engineering designs, or research in business, political analysis, or a literary
study. It will be exciting to see what these students do and share with our community. This is a program
for all students who want to explore and learn. It’s a class that welcomes divergent perspectives and supports students who may not have taken an AP course, as well as those who have. This year, we will welcome
our second group of students in AP Seminar, and we encourage students who want to cultivate their curiosity to explore the possibilities this program offers, even as early as freshman year, and talk to your Guidance
counselor about where this program can take you.
Aquinas Dual Enrollment Courses – We’ve expanded our offerings this year, and all four of these courses
offer juniors and seniors the opportunity to earn three transferrable college credits in a Catholic environment
through Aquinas College:




World in Crisis – This Political Science course studies the dynamics of global interaction and international relations and helps students develop a basic understanding of the international system and
modes of conflict and cooperation in international problem areas, human rights, armed conflict, poverty, environmental impact, religious confrontation, and diplomacy.
Principles of Management -- The focus of this course is on the study management theory, processes
of management, decision-making, leadership, communication, social responsibility, and international
management, with an emphasis on application of management principles to managing organizations.
Introduction to Communication – This course studies the theory and methods of intrapersonal, interpersonal, small group, organizational, public, intercultural, and mass communication.
Introduction to Sociology – The focus of this course is on developing a sociological perspective for examining social structures, change, culture, and stratification.
Summer Programs - This summer, a group of in-coming seniors studied astronomy, bio-diversity, French
culture and cuisine, and chemistry in summer research programs under the mentorship of college and university professors. Also, one student has completed an internship supporting local workers in navigating
immigration law, helping those in need. These experiences outside of the classroom expand these students’
horizons and their insights and perspectives will enrich our classroom work.
Also, students participated in programs designed to build math, reading, and general academic skills and
completed courses in economics and health. This year, we will welcome (#) 8th grade students from our
partner schools who will be learning math @ Catholic Central as part of our junior high-high school dual enrollment program. We are excited to welcome these students to the CC community.
Page 2
Catholic Central High School challenges
From the Assistant Principal cont.
Professional Development – Over the summer, our teachers have been busy learning new approaches and
designing curricula that cultivates curiosity, creativity, and innovation.
A group of our teachers, along with teachers from across the diocese, participated in a week-long program at
Xavier University on teaching innovation and Human-Centered Design. Human-Centered Design is based
on empathy – seeing from another’s perspective – and designing solutions to problems that meet the unique
needs of the user. It empowers teachers and students to move away from preconceptions and to use a multi
-disciplinary approach to understanding a problem, seeing it from the perspective of others, then working
through stages of inquiry, design, prototype, testing and refining a product or process. It requires collaboration and critical-thinking, and it engages participants in a type of intellectual work that cultivates and combines best ideas – based on empathy. Students can use this process to think and work through issues in all
subject areas, and this is a life-long skill that will benefit them in any area of work they pursue.
Our teachers have also participated in a variety of other programs designed to support students in thinking
differently: An Anatomy in Clay course in which students design and create three-dimensional anatomical
structures; training in AP Research design, physics, and world history; a 3-D printing course that provides
3D printer kits to our students to build and use iCamp to expand the use of technology in learning, and a
course in using assistive technology to support diverse learners. We are also entering our third year of training in science through the Van Andel Educational Institute, an inquiry-based approach to learning science.
Faith-based, Student-centered Learning - Our teachers have, over the last few years, focused on designing
curriculum and approaches to teaching centered on the learner and a growth mindset. We have refined curriculum based on student learning outcomes, established teaching standards focused on student learning
needs, and created an environment designed to increase student voice and leadership in learning. Across
the board, we are moving from a teacher-centered approach to a student-centered and student-directed approach to learning.
We continue to expand our Student Support Services Program, working with students and teachers to meet
students where they are and to support students as they discover new potential and realize their God-given
gifts. Our Student Support Services Program Director, Patty Joynt ([email protected]), welcomes the opportunity to talk about your student’s gifts and learning needs at any time throughout the
school year.
An important part of building a student-centered learning environment is inviting student feedback. Last
year we asked students to take part in end-of-course surveys in all classes in order to hear their thoughts
and ideas, and we have been at work over the summer to incorporate their insights into our planning in
every area. This, in addition to a school-wide end-of-year survey and the diocesan-sponsored Program Effectiveness surveys, provide valuable feedback from multiple perspectives. Know that your voice is heard and is
an integral part of our focus on continual improvement and growth.
Blessings to you as we embark on this exciting school year,
Linda Olejnik, Assistant Principal
Love
School Newsletter
Lead
Serve
Strive
Wonder
Honor
Page 3
From the Dean of students:
Students and Parents,
For those new to Catholic Central, welcome! Below I have included communication on many areas that
come up throughout the school year. In addition, students will receive a student handbook at the beginning
of the year (this is the same handbook that can be found on our website). The handbook includes the full
set of Catholic Central procedures and policies, which both student and parent agreed to during their course
registration.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Michael Jacob
Dean of Students
[email protected]
IMPORTANT DATES
Freshmen Orientation – Thursday, August 25, 2016 7:50 am – 3:30 pm, School Uniform
Freshmen Parent Technology (optional) - Thursday, August 25 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Parents are welcome to stay and join their freshmen for Mass at 2:30 pm in the Cathedral of Saint Andrew
10th, 11th, 12th Grade Orientation – Friday August 26, 2016 8:00 am – 11:30pm, School Uniform
Transfer/International Students Technology – After Orientation on Friday August 26, 2016, report to Library to receive and set-up iPad. You will be finished by 12:30pm.
First Day of Class – Tuesday August 30, 2016. Report to 1st hour prior to 8:00am in School Uniform.
Parent – Student Relationship
Research demonstrates that when parents are involved in their children's education, their children perform
better academically and socially. Our teachers, coaches, and administrators need your support in many
ways. To be successful in delivering high quality and meaningful retreats, events, and programming we need
hundreds of volunteer hours from our parents. If you would like to become involved, I encourage you to sign
up for events or groups that interest you or perhaps those that serve the entire Catholic Central community
such as our Parent Ambassadors.
In addition to supporting the wider Catholic Central community there are smaller undertakings that make
an important impact in your child’s education:






Page 4
Emphasize the importance of attendance and being on time. Your student is part of the Catholic
Central community; it is important that they contribute to the culture and environment, both academically and socially by being present, building relationships, and enjoying their time here at
Catholic Central.
Set high expectations of proper behavior. This should also be extended to their digital/online life.
Help them understand why we treat others with dignity and respect.
Use Infinite Campus to check your student’s progress in his/her classes.
Help your student organize and prepare for upcoming assessments and projects.
Attend Parent/Teacher conferences October 3 & 4 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm & March 16 5:00 pm - 8:30
pm, take notes, and meet with your student after.
Be an example. Read, learn, prepare, show up, contribute and communicate in your own life.
School Newsletter
From the Dean of students cont.
Student Dignity
Each member of our school is entitled to being treated with dignity. Catholic Central High School expects all
students to conduct themselves with dignity and with respect for fellow students, faculty, staff and others.
Harassment of any nature includes any conduct that may reasonably be offensive to others in an educational organization. If you see something, say something. You are called upon to step in and intervene or
find a trusted teacher, counselor, or myself to discuss your concerns. If we know, we can help!
Attendance
Research has proven that there is a high correlation between school attendance and academic performance
and success, while absence from school is often the greatest single cause of poor performance and achievement. Regular attendance and promptness promote a student’s positive academic achievement.
Importance of daily attendance:

Catholic Central is a community. A student cannot contribute to that community or build relationships without being present.

Learning is a progressive activity; each day's lessons build upon those of the previous day(s).

Reading the material and completing work independently does not compensate for the loss of insight gained during class discussion or the loss of competency acquired through explanation or
supervised drill, or collaborative group work.

Many classes use collaboration, discussions, discussions, demonstrations, experiments and participation as part of the daily learning activities, and these cannot be made up by those who are
absent.

Regular student participation in daily classroom activities plays a significant role in a student's
school success.
The law of Michigan compels every parent or guardian to send children within certain specified ages to
school. The schools are required by the same law to keep records of attendance, to make an accounting
of such attendance, and to report absences to the proper civil officers. Any unauthorized absences where
a student’s presence is expected and required will result in serious consequences.
A. ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL
1. Excused Absences include illness, injury, serious illness or death in the family, attendance at a funeral, a medical appointment that could not be made outside of school time, a transportation emergency, preapproved college visits, or a court appearance. The school reserves the right to request a
signed note from a physician to verify an absence being excused.
a. When a student is absent from school, the parents are required to call the attendance officer
before 10:00 a.m. (616-233-5812) on the day of the absence. Upon returning to school from an absence, students must check in with Attendance before their first class with a note from the parent or
guardian.
b. Foreseeable Absences Note: Absences in this category are strongly discouraged. Time out of class
cannot be replaced, and students must make up missed work while at the same time completing
new work that is assigned upon their return. Even the most capable student suffers when this occurs. There should be no expectation of special assistance with class material.
Foreseeable absences are those due to special family events, participation in a special event of a religious, educational, civic, or cultural nature and can be excused under the following conditions:
1. A parent receives permission from the Assistant Principal at least one week in advance.
2. Once approved, the student will then receive a “Pre-Approved Extended Absence Request Form”
from the Main Office and adhere to the criteria and procedures listed the handbook.
Page 5
From the Dean of students cont.
2. Unexcused Absences include but are not limited to: oversleeping, absences for employment, babysitting, truancy, absences which have parent consent but are for reasons not listed above. Absences for
matters of convenience to the student or family will not be excused. Cases of unexcused absence may
result in loss of credit for any daily work missed, multiple detentions, or suspension. One hour of
class missed equals two hours of detention.
3. Negative impact on grades can be expected for multiple absences, even excused absences, as the
classroom experience is essential to learning. Technology (specifically, Moodle) provides a very useful
method to inform students of assignments and due dates and provides learning and assessment opportunities, but it is not a substitute for being in the classroom. In the case of absence, students
should check Moodle for each class missed and contact the teacher(s) to make arrangements to make
up missed assignments.
4. Extra-curricular participation (including extra-curricular events occurring during the school day)
may be disallowed for students with multiple absences, at the discretion of Administration, and will be
suspended for students truant, unexcused or absent the day after performance.
a. If a student is absent from school for any portion of the school day, that student may not participate
in either practice or scheduled performance on that day. Any exceptions must be approved by the
administration.
b. Doctor and/or other appointments must be verified with an approved note, in order for students to
participate in a practice or scheduled performance on the day of the appointment.
c. College visits for students involved in performances must be approved one week in advance in order
to participate in practice or a scheduled performance.
Electronic Devices
Each student of Catholic Central High School is required to read, understand, and agree to the Acceptable
Use Policy. This separate document clearly outlines Catholic Central’s policies and procedures in relation to
electronic devices, digital media, and student expectations.
Phones, iPads, and other camera devices are prohibited from being used in all restrooms and locker rooms at
any time.
The use of unapproved devices (cellular phones, gaming devices, cameras, etc.) are prohibited during the instructional day. Administration/Teachers will confiscate any prohibited electronic devices that are not
stored during the school day and a detention will be issued. They will be returned to parents only. Messages from parents to students will be delivered promptly by calling 233-5812.
Dress Code
Students at Catholic Central High School are expected to strive for personal and academic excellence and to
accept the challenges of human freedom with its accompanying responsibilities. The school uniform is
meant to signify school membership, minimize competition, maximize convenience, and be cost conscious.
In addition, the uniform should promote self-respect and pride in being identifiable as a Catholic Central
student. Our uniform policy is in effect for the entire duration of the school day, including passing
periods, breaks, lunch, assemblies and liturgy. Catholic Central reserves the right to determine the
appropriateness of uniform dress and personal appearance. All required and optional (skirts and sweaters) uniform purchases must be made through Flynn O’Hara (see flyer included in this newsletter).
Page 6
Newsletter
From the Dean of students cont.
Parking
Students who elect to drive to school and use Catholic Central’s parking lots must obtain a parking contract
in the main office to acquire a parking pass for the 2016-2017 school year. If you have already completed
this step from the past two years, you do not need to do again. The parking contract is to be read, understood, and signed by both student and parent. Once the office receives the signed contract back, the student
will then receive their parking sticker. Any car without a CC parking sticker is subject to be ticketed or
towed at the owner’s expense.
Due to a limited amount of space on our downtown campus and our responsibility to preserve our environment, students are highly encouraged to carpool to school. Catholic Central is allotted 186 parking spaces
on a first-come, first-served basis. Students who arrive to school and cannot find parking will not be excused.
Pick Up and Drop Off Procedures
Due to our downtown location, pick up and drop off can be a busy situation. To ensure safety of all students, parents, and guests, we ask that all drivers obey the pedestrian crossing signs on our campus. Additionally, we ask that all pedestrians use the crosswalks as visibility for drivers can be an issue.
Our pick up and drop off locations are located on Goodrich St. (directly outside the main building) and Maple St. (near the Cathedral of St. Andrew). Both roads are two-way streets, so it is vital to use caution when
exiting vehicles and crossing the street.
NOTE: These streets are also needed for normal traffic. Grand Rapids Parking Attendants do monitor these
areas as there is no parking allowed. For the most part, they have understood our dilemma for the pick
up/drop off procedures. Often the parking attendants schedule their routes so they are not in our area from
2:50 – 3:05pm.
Page 7
Athletics
Welcome to another exciting year of Cougar Athletics 2016!
Wow, is that ever an understatement! The excitement for this fall is palpable. The enthusiasm amongst our
staff, students and community is off the charts. With the opening of Cougar Stadium and the completion of
the new Gardiner Track and Field, our fall sports teams are set to take flight.
With the opening of Cougar Stadium comes new opportunities and responsibilities for our community. In
the coming weeks I am sure you will hear of a number of opportunities to volunteer. Please consider doing
so. We need your help to operate and maintain this incredible gift. Please also bear in mind our responsibility to the OK Conference and the MHSAA in respect to alcohol at athletic events. While we certainly expect this fall season to be filled with celebration and the CAT to be a festive environment, the consumption of
alcohol does not have a place within the context of high school athletics. Thank you in advance for partnering with us to create an incredible environment for high school athletics!
NEW: CC students will be admitted for free to all regular season home athletic events. This includes football
games. Must show school ID (last year’s ID will work). If you do not have your ID yet, school staff can clear
you for admission at the pass gate.
Football Opening Game Ticket Pre-sell Information: Tickets will be sold from the new CAT ticket booth
on the following days and times. No tickets will be sold downtown.
August 20 - Tickets available at the CAT re-opening celebration - Cougar Stadium ticket booth
August 24 - Tickets available for purchase 5-7 PM - Cougar Stadium ticket booth
August 26 - Cougar Stadium ticket booth will open at 4 PM
Athletic Code: Your students will be issued the 2016-2017 Handbook. Please review the Athletic Code,
Academic Eligibility Criteria, Concussion Awareness Form and the policy on Student Dignity. The choices
your student makes must reflect the spirit and intent of these policies. Wearing the CC uniform is a privilege that is earned by consistently making the right choices.
Athletic Website: Find all the latest news and announcements along with schedules, athletic forms and
coaches contact information at www.grccathletics.com. Each sport is responsible for populating the site
with relevant information. Please contact the athletic office if you would like to contribute photos or writeups.
Fall Parent Meeting: Tuesday, August 16, 6:30pm held at the CAT. Parents will learn about general athletic department philosophies and procedures, as well as opportunities to get involved. We will also break
out into individual teams. This is a great opportunity for parents to get to know the coach and expectations
of the program.
Athletic Boosters: The Catholic Central Athletic Booster Club plays a vital role in the athletic department.
The funds raised allow us to offer a wide variety of opportunities to our student athletes. We are proud to
support nearly 600 student athletes each year. This makes up nearly 80% of our student body. This is no
small task and requires a team effort. We strongly encourage every parent, alum and community member to
join us in this worthy cause. To learn more about how you can get involved, please email [email protected]
The 30th Cougar Golf Open, a Booster Club fundraiser, is scheduled for Monday, September 12th
at Egypt Valley with a steak dinner immediately following the golf. Visit www.cougaropen.com or
email Mike Braun at [email protected] if you would like to participate in any way at this annual Cougar community day of fun.
Page 8
First Practice For Fall 2016 Sports
FIRST PRACTICE FOR 2016 FALL SPORTS:
Physical Exam Forms must be on file in the Athletic Office to begin practice for all teams, including Club
sports. Students must be registered for classes to participate in pre-season practices.
Please call the coach if you have a particular question regarding that sport.
Boys and Girls Cross Country: First practice at the CAT from 7:30 to 9:00 am. The boys and girls will meet on
the outdoor track (indoor track if raining). All runners should wear running attire and bring a water bottle. Please
note that practice times and locations will vary and a detailed weekly schedule will be sent out via email prior to
the first practice. If you have any questions you should contact Jackson Fox
at [email protected]
Cheerleading: Thursday, August 11, 5-7 PM, at the CAT 2770 Knapp. Coach McKenzie Hollern, 616-570-1611
Football: Monday, August 8, 9:30am-11:30am (Varsity Only) 4pm-9pm (FR/JV) 6pm-9pm (Varsity) at the CAT,
2770 Knapp. Coach Todd Kolster, 616-490-0700
Girls Golf: Wednesday, August 10, meet at Quail Ridge, 3:45pm. Coach: Kim Napieralski, 616-970-9987
Boys Soccer: August 10-12 at the CAT, 2770 Knapp. Bring own ball, shin guards, water, studs and running
shoes. Coach Brian Hughes, 616-301-5249.
August 10: 7:00 – 8:15 AM and 5:30 – 7:30 PM
August 11: 5:30 – 7:30 PM
August 12: 5:30 – 7:30 PM
Girls Swimming: Monday, August 15th-19th, 2:00-4:00pm at the Downtown YMCA Pool
475 Lake Michigan Drive Coach Dave Carson, 734-649-9740.
Boys Tennis: Wednesday, August 10, 8:00am-12:00pm, at the CAT, 2770 Knapp. Bring own racquet, jump rope,
water bottle, and a snack/lunch. Wear appropriate tennis clothing, including pockets. Coach Pat Williams, 4569059. Inclement weather report to CAT gym lobby at 8:00am
Volleyball: Valerie Lurye 616-307-3923
August 10, 2016- Tryouts @ CAT
Varsity: 9:00-11:00 AM, 6:00-9:00 PM
JV/Freshmen: 4:00-6:30 PM
August 11, 2016- 1st Practice @ CAT
Varsity: 8:30-10:30 AM, 1:00-3:00 PM
Freshmen: 3:00-5:00 PM
JV: 5:00-7:00 PM
School Newsletter
Page 9
Guidance Office
A message from the Office of Guidance & College CounselingWelcome back! We hope you have enjoyed a fun and restful summer break. We are reenergized for the start of another exciting year at Catholic Central. Our office opens Monday, August 15, to assist you in your educational journey.
Student schedules will be posted to the Infinite Campus Portal during the week of August
22 and Freshmen/New Student schedules distributed at their Orientation later that
week. Individual schedules will not be mailed through the postal service unless specifically
requested.
NOTE: CCHS is not able to accommodate requests for schedule changes- Students may
email his/her counselor if a required course (such as Theology, English, Math, Science,
and/or Social Studies) is missing. We thank you in advance for your cooperation during
this very busy season.
Students & parents- Please check your email for regular communication from our office. Details for parent and student programs hosted during the academic year will be
advertised through Naviance email. Parents may edit their email addresses in Naviance
Family Connection through their student’s account.
Parents are strongly encouraged to attend various programs hosted by our office. These
events offer wonderful opportunities to connect with your student’s guidance counselor as
well as learn resources and tips for your student’s academic success. Topics and guest
speakers will cover college planning, academic strategies, career exploration, and last but
not least, financial planning and aid resources for higher education. As a quick reminder,
all parent workshops will be advertised by email and in the school announcements at
www.grcatholiccentral.org in advance of the date.
Starting September 1, official transcripts for college admissions can be requested
through e-Docs in the student Naviance Family Connection account. Catholic Central students can send their official transcript electronically and securely to hundreds of colleges
and universities at no cost. Seniors who submit college admission applications BEFORE
September 1 should contact their counselor regarding a transcript request. Note: Standardized test scores (ACT & SAT) are not included on student transcripts and must be
sent directly from a student’s testing account to the colleges per student authorization.
Questions? Please call Mrs. Lori Stream, Guidance Assistant/Registrar, at 233-5810 OR
email a counselor (by last name and grade):
Tom Shangraw (A-G, S-Z grades 9-12)
Joel Passinault (H-R grades 9-12)
Heidi Clark-Smitley (college counselor)
Page 10
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Catholic Central High School challenges students to know and love God, seek knowledge
Office of Campus Ministry
Dear Catholic Central parents,
Welcome to a new school year! It is incredible to see how God has blessed the students, faculty and staff of
Catholic Central High School. The fall is a very busy time as we engage ourselves, not only in studies and
extracurricular activities, but, also, in the various spiritual opportunities that we offer as part of our learning
community.
Thank you for all prayerful support and active participation in our school. Campus Ministry is blessed because of your involvement.
In the peace of Christ,
Dennis Rybicki,
Barbara Scott
Office of Campus Ministry
Peer Ministry
Peer Ministry is excited to starting the year. At our Peer Ministry Retreat on July 28-29, the students went
through dynamic leadership training that will equip them for some new and exciting opportunities for the
coming year. Please note that Peer Ministers should enroll themselves in the Peer Ministry Moodle Page for
communication throughout the year. Also, please note that Peer Ministry meetings occur on the first
Sunday of each month from 4-5:30 pm in the Music Room, generally. Exceptions are no meeting in September and 2nd Sundays for October and January. See the Moodle page for specific dates.
Weekly Liturgies
Other Upcoming Retreats
Please mark your calendars for these retreats in addition to
COREX. More information will be coming to parents of
each class after school begins.
We continue to offer weekly liturgy this
year. All parents are welcome to join us.
The Opening Mass will be on Thursday,
September 1 at 9:30 am in the Cathedral
of Saint Andrew.
Sep 18-19
Junior Retreat Poverty Awareness
CC
September Liturgy Schedule
Sep 19
Freshman First Day
CC
September 1
9:30 am
Sep 19
Sophomore Community Day
Camp Roger
September 8
9:30 am
Sep 19
Senior Service Day
September 15
9:30 am
September 22
9:30 am
various locations
September 29 - 9:30 am Prayer
Service (no Mass)
School Newsletter
Page 11
Campus Ministry Cont.
Campus Ministry Advisory Council
Campus Ministry Advisory Council will now be an integral part of the newly organized
Mission Committee. Our first meeting is Tuesday, August 9 from noon—2 pm in
N205. The Mission Committee is open to all students interested in working on opportunities to help the student body live out their faith.
Newly Formatted Retreat Program
COREX Update
The Senior class will participate in
their Senior Retreat (COREX—
Community Religious Experience)
at Camp Blodgett on August 1315.
Information has been sent to
parents over the summer. This
will be an amazing opportunity to
grow spiritually as well as a
community of senior servant
leaders.
Parents, please make sure you
turn in your parent letter to
your student to the main office
as soon as possible.
If you have any questions, please
contact Barb Scott,
[email protected]
Campus Ministry is very excited to announce the
newly formatted retreat program for this year. Every
student will still be required to participate in at least
two retreats per year.
Fall retreats will remain the same (see the schedule
above). Each student will need to participate in at
least one other retreat throughout the year, either
through Catholic Central, their parish, or an outside
faith-based organization. Therefore, if a summer
parish retreat works better into students’ schedules,
then that experience will be accepted. This will allow
flexibility in student schedules, student interests and
faith levels, as well as more opportunities to
collaborate with parishes and organizations.
Campus Ministry will still offer service retreats in the
Spring as we did last year, but we will also be able to
provide more varied retreats throughout the year.
Some opportunities will have limited registration
while others will be unlimited.
More details, including the tracking of retreats
attended, will be sent to parents and students when
the school year begins.
Page 12
Technology Updates 2016
Summer 2016 has been busy once again with updating all PCs to Windows 10, installation
of new equipment, upgrading various systems and network components as well as updates
to the AirWatch MDM (Mobile Device Management) system. These upgrades and updates
should make for a smooth beginning of the new school year.
Teachers and administrators have also been busy attending various technology related
conferences that will lead to improvements in technology integration and new resources.
These workshops included learning about Human Centered Design, what that process entails and how it can be utilized within the classroom. Also, two of our staff members attended a workshop where they learned to print parts for and build their own 3D printer.
They then used that printer to design and print various projects. With the knowledge they
acquired they can now teach students the same process to build additional 3D printers.
There will be lots of interesting and fun projects going on throughout the 2016-17 school
year so stay tuned!
The results from our spring technology integration survey are available on the Learners2leaders Website. One of the items that floated to the top across the parent and staff
responses was a need to better communicate with parents regarding technology use and
support for their role. The Learners 2 Leaders website is our main portal for the iPad program. Visit grlearners2leaders.org > Tech-Knowledgey Blogs > General for the survey results. While you're there, take a look at other resources available and be sure to bookmark
the site for easy access to policy documents, weekly blog posts and direct communication
line to 365 support.
iPad Rollout: Freshmen will be receiving important information regarding the iPad rollout
schedule and procedures in a separate mailing. Please pay close attendion to the procedures included in the mailing to insure that receiving and setting up your student’s
iPad goes as smoothly as possible. A parent iPad orientation session will also be
available before closing Mass that day.
iPad Rollout -- Save the date! (specifics included with the iPad rollout mailing.)
 Freshman - Thursday, Aug. 25, 2016
 International and Transfer students - Friday, Aug. 26, 2016 11:30 pm—12:30 pm
 Eighth grade dual enrollment students - Monday, Aug. 29, 2016 1:00 pm –2:30
pm
Newsletter
Page 13
Student Activities
The Theme for this year is “How to get Involved?”
Every school year we have numerous clubs, extracurricular activities and service opportunities that seem to have a small, but loyal following. This needs to change. Students
and Faculty have created amazing clubs to explore engaging topics and provide creative
outlets. And we know research has shown the benefits of being more active in your school
environment.
Did you know extracurricular activities offer opportunities for:
-Students to learn the values of teamwork
-Service-driven community interaction
-Reinforcement of lessons learned in the classroom
-Quality faculty and student collaboration
-Increasing your student’s sense of engagement and commitment to our school community
This school year five Committees have been formed to provide opportunities for your student to not only get involved, but increase student awareness and input on our overall
school environment. Look for information about sign-ups in daily announcements.
-Mission Committee
-Welcome Committee
-Academics & Student Life
-Social Committee
-Spirit Committee
Each committee is facilitated by members of the Student Congress working with Faculty.
Committee involvement is open to the student body. Encourage your student to get involved.
September 13-15 is Club / Committee Sign Ups- at all lunches.
Our Service Program is another way to get involved.
We have several partnerships with local programs to volunteer. Monthly HOPE meetings
provide students with service opportunities and new events are often listed in the school
announcements.
Please keep track of your service hours on the web site and complete your service forms.
If you ever have any questions or ideas- please contact me,
Mrs. Kris DeYoung [email protected]
Page 14
National Honor Society
National Honors Society – NHS looks forward to a new year and new opportunities of service. The National Honors Society at Catholic Central takes on a leadership role within the
school as participants show excellence in academics, integrity, and service. This year, Mrs.
Heather Rawe joins Mr. DeWitt as Co-Advisor, and they are excited about leading this
group into the upcoming school year.
To join -- NHS members are juniors and seniors who demonstrate the values of leadership,
service, character, and academic achievement. Invitations to join NHS are delivered
(through 5th hour classes) to juniors and seniors who meet the 3.80 GPA requirement on
orientation day. Returning senior NHS members are automatically re-enrolled and need
not reapply in senior year. The application requires that students write an essay describing their leadership and service experience and how this experience has shaped their character, and to list their service and extra-curricular involvement in high school. Typically,
successful NHS candidates have documented around 50 hours of service by the beginning
of junior year. Completed applications are due to the Main Office by Thursday, September
8th at 3pm. If you have any questions about NHS membership, please contact Mr. DeWitt
([email protected]) or Mrs. Heather Rawe
([email protected].)
Summer Reading
Please check the school website grcatholiccentral.com and click on “Announcements/
English Department Summer Reading for reading and writing assignments due at the
beginning of the school year for all students.
Student Directory Sales Benefit Cougar Band!
Student directory sales support band activities through the year! Directories are updated
annually, and provide contact information for students and staff. Directories will be sold at
the Welcome Back Night on September 7, near the school office. Please come prepared to
purchase, as this is the time each year that directories are available!
Please note: if you do not want your name included in the directory, or if there was
an error with your listing last year, send an email no later than August 21 to:
[email protected]
Page 15
~~Senior All Night Party 2017~~
Attention Senior Parents!
It Is Your Turn to Volunteer! - Senior All Night Party Fundraiser (SANP)
Planning is underway for the Class of 2017 Senior All Night Party. The Senior
All Night Party is a safe celebration and commemoration for our seniors the
night of graduation, May 16, 2017! We need your help to create a momentous
experience for them! There will be various fundraisers this year where parent participation is vital.
The next fundraiser is Cougar Open on Monday, September 12 at Egypt Valley, and your help is requested.
The Cougar Open has been described as the best volunteer experience ever!
Twenty volunteers are needed for such things as serving lunch, selling raffle
tickets, and simple golf tasks at the holes. Volunteers should gather friends
and spend the day or contribute to shorter shifts. Lunch, dinner and snacks
are provided. You may volunteer 10 am-6 pm, 10 am-2 pm, or 2 pm-6 pm.
Contact: Laurie Duemler, SANP 2017 Fundraising Co-Chair
at [email protected] or 616-485-0929.
Page 16