Marist High School
November 2013
Family Newsletter
Stay current with Marist news and events
Letter from the Principal

Dear Marist Families:

 

I am actually writing this letter in Brussels as I await my connecting flight to return home after a week in Nairobi, Kenya.  As you remember, I was there to do work in anticipation of a worldwide Marist Assembly that will take place in September 2014.  The meeting was truly "all work and no play"; nevertheless, very rewarding.  A few of you responded to my invitation for a day of reflection centered on this important moment in Marist history.  I will be in touch with you shortly about setting a date.  In the meantime, if anyone else is interested, just hit this link.

 

At the last meeting of the Parents' Association, the executive board asked that we expand the agenda of the monthly meetings to include discussions of parent concerns, questions, or comments. We decided to do this by having interested parents fill out a slip to deposit in a box.     I will review all submissions and respond at the following meeting.    This would give me a chance to discuss matters with other members of the administration, or to do research before I respond. Between meetings, we will leave the box in the main office so that those of you who can't make a meeting will have access. All responses will be recorded in the minutes of the meeting, which are posted on the website.

 

Communication that is clear and accurate is very important to me, something in which I take great pride as an English teacher and as an administrator.  Above all, I strive to be as transparent as possible.  I welcome any opportunity that will add clarity, warmth, and openness with our students' families.  Always, feel free to email me directly.

 

One issue on which the administration is currently deliberating has been a pressing issue for some of you: the uniform school shoe.  We are not eager to change the shoe midstream as families have already invested in the black vans.  However, Mr. Carbone is researching a shoe that offers more support and will hold up better in wet weather.  If you have an affordable alternative to the black van, email Mr. Carbone directly.  We will be making a selection in December so that the new option could be implemented as an alternative after mid-term exams.  Until then, the black van remains the uniform shoe for all except the seniors.

 

As you read on, you'll see that November is chockfull of opportunities for your son/daughter to become involved:  the school play, the fashion/talent show, tryouts for winter sports, Chapter 192, tutoring, etc.  Marist is truly the school that never sleeps.  Likewise, Marist is a family that prays together.  We invite you to join us for our Thanksgiving Prayer on November 26.  If you can't, remember that gratitude is always in season, not just at this time of year.  Let us remain grateful for one another and our Marist family. 

 

Sincerely,

 


Ms. Miesnik
Academic News


Students who have failed two or more subjects on the first report card must attend a mandatory study hall from 2:45 - 3:45 Monday-Thursday, beginning on Wednesday, November 13.  Here students will be able to complete homework, read, review for tests and get extra help.  We encourage parents to have the students pay the Study Hall fee of $25.00 out of their own pocket.  If the fee is not paid during the first two weeks of study hall, it will increase to $30.00 and your account will be billed through the Finance Office.  

SAT's, the college entrance test, will be administered at Marist on Saturday, November 2nd and again on Saturday, December 7th.
 
Students should report to school by 7:30 AM with two #2 pencils, a calculator, a PHOTO ID, and their admission ticket.  All seniors should have registered for this test.  If not, he/she should find out from Guidance how to register for the next test.
college_campus.jpg


The Catholic High School entrance exam is scheduled at Marist on Friday, November 8th, beginning at 8:00 AM.  There are no classes for Marist students on that day.  Do you know someone who has an eighth grader who would like to attend a Catholic school in September 2014 but has not yet registered?  Call Ms. McQueary, our Admission Officer, at (201-437-4545 x225) or e-mail her at [email protected] for further information.  Thanks for spreading the word about this important test.  

Has your son/daughter begun to apply to colleges?  Has your son/daughter narrowed his/her list down to schools he/she is really interested in?  Now is the time to attend to this very important endeavor.  The longer you wait, the more stressful it becomes.  Call Ms. Eisenmenger (ext. 301, Ms. Heymer (ext. 304), or Ms. Sorbara (ext. 303) Also, you may e-mail them [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]  if you need assistance.

Using MHS Online
 
In order for a parent to access MHS Online, you must ask your son/daughter for their login and pw.  Their login is their school ID number.  Their pw is one they created.  Once they've share these with you, you'll be able to verify whether or not they have homework in a particular class.  Every class on their schedule should appear on their MHS Online login page.
 
Extra Help

If your son/daughter is struggling in a subject, he/she may contact a teacher for extra help or receive tutoring from a member of the National Honor Society on Monday through Thursday in the Cooperative Learning Room inside the Library Media Center.  Help is always available.  Make sure your son/daughter takes advantage of it.
Chapter 192 is a program provided at Marist High School through the Bayonne Board of Ed.  You received a letter and application in the mail if your son/daughter is eligible for this program.  Eligibility is determined by performance on standardized tests. The program provides the opportunity for students to improve their basic skills using a computer assisted program. You must send back a signed application in order to enroll.  Once your child is enrolled in the program, classes will meet once a week per skill for approximately one hour after school.  You will be notified of the day of the week in advance. Please note that these classes are free of charge.  If you have any questions or would like a copy of the application, please feel free to contact Mrs. Yuknalis who will be coordinating the program at Marist High School by dialing (201) 437-4545 extension 334 or via email: [email protected].

Campus Ministry News


Friday, November 1 is a Holy day of Obligation so we will gather as a school for a Eucharistic Liturgy, celebrating the Saints and reflecting on those we love who have passed. Students will be invited to carry the names of those among family and friends who have died and we will remember them in a special way during the Liturgy. This will be a teaching Liturgy where we will intersperse the mass with narration, so as to invite greater participation. Mass is at 9:45 and all parents are welcome to join us.
Sophomore Day of Reflection.  Return to Esopus!  The Sophomores are eager to return to our Retreat House in Esopus for a Day of Reflection Thursday, November 7. They will depart after homeroom and return by 5:45. Dress down, long pants (no shorts) shoes for hiking, nothing really good...we are in the country! A Day to Reflect and pray and have fun and serious talks with classmates. Attendance is optional. Those who choose not to attend will attend regular classes. Cost is $25.00. If money is an issue, see Ms. Kehoe. No one should miss out because of money. Permission slips must be returned with the money in a labeled envelope by Thursday, October 31. None can be accepted after that because we must have the number for the retreat house to order food. 
Senior Encounter was held in Esopus October 24-27.  Seven members of our senior class, along with students from other Marist schools participated in this four day retreat, which gave them the opportunity to think, pray and discover more of who they are in their relationship with God.  Our seniors were accompanied by  Ms. Eisenmenger. The tradition continues! Two of our graduates were on the Young Adult team. Next chance to go is in February.
Thanksgiving Prayer Service is scheduled for Tuesday, November 26 beginning at 9:45.  Students will receive a Thanksgiving Family Prayer, should you wish to use it at your Thanksgiving table.  As always, you're invited to join us as we gather to thank God for the many blessings we have received.   The next day Wednesday, November 27th will continue our Lean on Me/Love Your Neighbor Community Service Day. Each class will participate in a group service project. The freshmen will experience a Hunger Banquet, while sorting the food for donation and hearing from a representative of the Community Food Bank. They will have visited the Community Food Bank on Friday, November 22nd to help get donations out for Thanksgiving. Sophomores will undertake Service Projects around the school.  Juniors will do our Annual beach Clean-up at Bayonne Park and Seniors will join teachers at various non-profits around the area to donate their time. Our intention is to generate a Culture of Service, which is such a part of being Marist. 
Food Drives: In October, Campus Ministry had a bake sale to raise money for the Bayonne Food Pantry and in November, from November 1 until Thanksgiving break, students will collect non-perishable food and toiletries for St. John's Soup Kitchen (Visit their website at stjohnssoupkitchen.org for more info). They also have a program: Wounded Warriors to give special care to homeless vets. Students should bring any donated items to homeroom to get points for their class. Thanks in advance for your generosity.  The Marist spirit extends to our brothers and sisters who suffer in poverty.
  • Canned Veggies
  • Mashed Potatoes
  • Stuffing
  • Canned Soup
  • Rice
  • Pasta Sauce
  • Pasta
  • Coffee
  • Sugar
  • Salt
  • Disposable Razors
  • Bar Soap
  • Deodorant
  • Toothpaste
  • Toothbrushes
 
Freshmen visited the Marist Brothers' Retreat house in Esopus for their first time on October 10. They enjoyed the retreat, which had been planned for them by the Senior Retreat Leaders. They prayed at the new outdoor Chapel, toured the grounds, met in small groups for discussion with their Seniors, hiked to the river and "made toilet paper mummies." We have some precious pictures that will be very meaningful to them when they are Seniors. Their behavior was exemplary and their enthusiasm was contagious. In this month of Thanksgiving, we are thankful for our wonderful kids!
Guidance News
College Admissions: This process is in full swing, as Seniors are working feverishly to fill out applications, register for the SATs and ACTs, and write their college essays.  We have college admission reps visiting during lunch, and for group sessions on a weekly basis to give the Seniors some added insight into the application process of each individual school.  Check in with your son or daughter about what they're learning and how to better assist them in the process.
SAT/ACT Deadlines: All seniors should have taken the SAT or ACT at least once by now.  If your Senior has not yet taken either, SIGN UP TODAY.  The deadline for both the December 7th SAT and the December 14th ACT is NOVEMBER 8th.  Don't miss out on this crucial step of the college admission process. 
Peer Counseling: The Freshmen Peer Counseling groups are in full swing-meeting once a week to talk about transition issues and the general life of a high school student.  Check in with your Freshman son or daughter about their group and what they're learning.

Guidance Groups: With students finally settling into a routine, we will be starting up our Group Sessions on a variety of topics.  From our Socialization Group, Girl Talk, Anger Management, and Time Management, there's a little something for everyone.  We are also open to suggestions for other group topics, such as Decision Making or Peer Pressure, and will add groups on an as-need basis when students express interest.
A Word about Standardized Test Preparation:
No one should walk into a standardized testing situation "cold".  Are you aware that Marist prepares your sons and daughters in several ways?  One is by providing testing experience by offering the PSAT to all year levels every year until they take their first SAT.  Each spring, the Freshmen and Sophomores also take the EXPLORE and the PLAN, which are precursors to the ACT, a test which is now considered as an option to the SAT in the college admission process.  In March, for the first time, all Juniors at Marist will take the ACT during a school day.  Finally, test prep is included in the curriculum by using the NEP SAT prep course.  Signing up for Chapter 192 offers additional support.  Don't go into any test "cold".  Warm up with all of the help at your disposal. Guidance has a few outside resources/connections that students may inquire about, should they want extra support. They also have a few study aids in the office which students can borrow.
Other News

 

Damaged Chromebook?  In order to have a damaged Chromebook repaired, the student must submit the $25 insurance deductible along with the damaged Chromebook to Mr. Short in the LMC.  At that time, the student will be given a "loaner".  When the repaired Chromebook is returned, Mr. Short will call for the student who will return the loaner in exchange for his original Chromebook.   Mr. Short cannot accept a damaged Chromebook without the deductible.



The Annual Fashion/Talent Show will take place on Friday November 15 from 7:00-9:30. Tickets are $7 in advance and $10 at the do or. Refreshments will be available for purchase.  All are invited.

Dracula will be performed by our drama club on Friday, November 8 and Saturday, November 9.  The show, under the direction of Mrs. Beatriz Esteban, will start promptly at 7:00 pm.  The students have been rehearsing since September to stage this classic story.  The admission cost is $5.00 for an adult and $3.00 for a student.  We hope you can join us!

Washington D.C. Trip is run annually for seniors under the guidance of Mr. Carbone and Mr. Kay.  The date is set for November 16.  Seniors should pick up their permission slip in the main office and return it with their $45 fee as soon as possible.  Spaces will be limited.

Ballet Folklorico, the annual field trip sponsored by our language department, is scheduled for Thursday, November 21 from 8:30-2:30.  Students who sign up will visit the Park Theater in Union City for a Latino presentation of music and dance.  Cost is $25.  See Mr. Holtz or Ms Gonzalez for a permission slip if you are interested in going.  Don't forget to bring extra money for lunch!
Office of Institutional Advancement

Ninth Annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

 

The date of the event is Saturday, November 23rd with a Mass at 5:00pm, Cocktail hour will begin at 6:00pm and the awards dinner will follow at 7:00pm.  The honorees include:

 

Robert Di Nicola '65, for Professional Achievement

John D. Dwyer '58 forDistinguished Service

Joseph Hurley '72 for Distinguished Service

Rev. John R. Job '82 forSpirit of Marist

Daniel Klinga '65 forAthletic Achievement

Brother William Francis (Lavigne) for Spirit of Marist

Charlene Wepner forSpirit of Marist

1969-1970 Cross Country Team for Team Achievement

 
Tickets and ads can be purchased online at
marist.org/halloffame or by calling Norma Abreu at ext. 215.
Parents' Association News
The First Vendor Bazaar of the 2013-2014 school year was held on October 19.  The event was a success but could have been far better if more shoppers had been there.  Please consider coming to the next Vendor Bazaar which will be Saturday, November 9.  Come over on November 9th to check it out! And bring a friend!
First Annual Arts and Craft Show: The Parents' Association will host their first craft show on December 7th from 9 AM to 3 PM in the school cafeteria. If you would like to be a vendor at our craft show please contact Jillian Flores at [email protected] .  Mark your calendars for some unique Christmas Shopping that day.
Next Parents' Association Meeting will be on November 12th at 6:30 in the cafeteria.   Please come and join us. 

Athletic News
Football: Under First Year Head Coach Juan Garcia, the Royal Knights are 3-4 and steadily improving. With a win against rival Hudson Catholic, The football team will clinch their second playoff berth in two years.

 

Next Game: Friday November 8th opponent TBA at Veterans Stadium, 7pm start.
Boys' Soccer: Coach Victor Pesantz finished the season on a high note, defeating Mets Charter School 4-3. With a dominant young team, the Royal Knights look to return strong in 2014.
Girls' Soccer: Under first year coach Erica Bounacquista, the team is excited about the future of the program. The team finished the season with 17 players, 13 of whom will return in 2014.
Girls' Volleyball: Once again Jeremy Kay has the girls competing at a high level. The girls finished the season at 10-8, and will take on Ferris in the First round of the County Playoffs.

Winter Sports Are Coming!!!!

 

Tryouts for Winter Track, Boys' and Girls' Basketball are scheduled for December 2.

 

Cheerleaders will try out on December 2.


Winter Track, Swimming, and Bowling Tryouts are TBA.

 

Go Marist Knights!!

Upcoming Events - October 2013
SundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday





1

All Saints Day Mass - Schedule D

End of First Quarter
2

7:00 AM - SATs

SPA Food Bank
345

6

Dress Down for Arts Festival
7

Sophomore Day of Reflection

5:00 PM-8:00PM: Parent/Teacher Conferences 
8

COOP Exam

No Classes
9

9:00 AM: Vendor Bazaar
10
1112

8:00 AM: Principal's Breakfast

1:00 PM Dismissal

6:30 PM: Parents' Association Meeting
13

Study Hall begins
1415

7:00 PM: Fashion/Talent Show
16

Senior Trip to Washington, DC
17

11:00 AM-1:00 PM: Medquest event

1819

2:45 PM: NHS Meeting
20

Activity Period 

Schedule B

2:45 PM: CSP Meeting
21

Ballet Folklorico
22

Blood Drive

Freshmen to Food Bank
23

Ninth Annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
24


2526

Thanksgiving Service

Schedule B
27

Day of Service

12:00 PM Dismissal
28

Thanksgiving Recess
29

Thanksgiving Recess
30
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