Dear parents:

Contrary to his Pennsylvania cousin’s forecast, West Virginia’s own French Creek Freddie predicted spring by mid-March. Let’s hope he’s right! With the exception of a very few sunny days, Charleston has been Narnia-like this winter – interminable snow flurries, seemingly perpetual gray skies, and endless days of freezing temperatures. But as John F. Kennedy said during his visit to West Virginia during the primary, “The sun doesn’t always shine in West Virginia, but the people do.”

I’m reminded of that fact each day as our school community comes together. Last week, for example, on Mardi Gras (another gray day), our students happily received New Orleans-style beads as they trooped into the building. Parents delivered king cakes throughout the day, the sweet fragrance tingeing the air, all in preparation for the eighth period celebration. And, as an added treat, pizza was provided by Bob and Diana Hypes for lunch that day in appreciation for the “Wear Red for Bobby Day” that had occurred just the week before which raised funds for the CCHS scholarship awarded each year to a rising senior in Bobby’s memory.

When stopping in classrooms, I’m always struck by several things: our students’ attention to the task at hand, teachers’ passion for their subjects, and the quality of the work that is being done. Splitting hydras, producing video poetry, debating the planet-worthy status of Pluto, working complex math problems, presenting foreign language projects, comparing data, constructing and programming robots, enjoying RAPs in theology classes, presenting genealogy and social justice projects, discussing literature, preparing for the Golden Horseshoe test, and so on – it doesn’t matter what is going on, the quality, the passion, and the diligence always shine through.

During this season of Lent, and with Spring upon us, it is a good time to reflect upon the past and to make adjustments based on experiences, to enjoy and learn from each new day, and to feel hopeful about the future. May we take time to marvel at the details of nature that so often escape our notice, to focus on what is good in each day, and to look into one another’s eyes and see the face of God.

Debra K. Sullivan, Principal

CONDOLENCES – We express our sympathy to a number of our students and their families who have lost loved ones recently. May the souls of the departed rest in peace: Anna (8^th) and Meg Whelan’s (11^th) maternal grandfather who was an avid fan of CCHS girls’ soccer and basketball teams; Ian (10^th) and Kara (6^th) Lough’s step-grandfather, Max Gottlieb’s (12^th) maternal grandmother, Ike (9th) and Brittany (7th) Joseph’s great aunt, and Marissa Thiessen’s (10^th) great grandmother. Please keep these families in your thoughts and prayers.

CONGRATULATIONS -- to Clodagh Tinney and Emily Witsberger, National Merit Finalists in the 2010 competition, ranking them in the nation’s top 1% of seniors: Their PSAT scores got them into the first round and their transcripts, personal statements, recommendations, service, and extracurricular involvement helped assure a successful finish!

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AND OTHER) SCORES -- Last week’s Gazette reported information about the Class of 2009 for the US overall and for each state, comparing performance on AP exams. Each high school across the country also receives a customized AP report which provides data about its own students. The College Board reported that 27% of the nation’s Class of 2009 took AP exams, compared to 17% in WV, and 55% at CCHS. 16% of seniors across the country passed exams (i.e., earned a score of 3 or higher), compared to 8% in West Virginia, and 79% at CCHS. A similar report, recently sent from ACT, Incorporated, deals with our current seniors’ scores when they were sophomores. Once again, they exceeded national norms, with a PLAN Math mean score of 22.7 compared with 17.7 at the national level. Bravo to our students and their teachers!

SCHEDULING CURRENT STUDENTS FOR THE 2010-2011 SCHOOL YEAR -- Students currently enrolled at CCHS have received their registration/scheduling forms. Because of the need to complete schedule planning for our currently enrolled students and to determine space availability for new students, the deadline for returning the completed form is Friday, March 5. A non-refundable registration/scheduling fee of $200.00 must accompany the form ($100 credit will be applied toward 2010-2011 class fees). After March 5, the fee is $225 (includes $25 late fee and $100 credit toward fees). Final placement in 7th and 8th grade math and high school honors, advanced honors, and Advanced Placement courses will be made in June after a review of the students’ first and second semester grades, their current and past year’s standardized test results, various placement tests, class availability, and teacher recommendations.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT – Researchers at the University of Maryland (College Park) have released some interesting findings regarding teenagers and drinking. “The notion that if parents don’t allow their teen to drink then he’s a bomb ready to go off once he leaves for school is just misguided,” says lead author Amelia Arria, Ph.D., who has studied more than 1,000 students between ages 17 and 19. “Alcohol can damage the part of teens’ brains that animal studies suggest is associated with memory and learning.” The report goes on to say that young people “who drink before age 15 are seven times more likely to develop alcohol problems than people who start at 21.” The study also found that those students who didn’t drink in high school consumed an average of 1.8 alcoholic beverages each time they drank as freshmen in college, while their peers with more drinking experience socked back five.

TUITION INFORMATION FOR 2010-11 -- including invoices and loan information from First Bank of Charleston will be mailed on April 12. Tuition payment in full is due June 15 (late charge assessed at $1.00 per day after June 15).

TUITION SCHOLARSHIP – Mr. Frank Jennings and his family established a student scholarship fund several years ago providing partial tuition for deserving CCHS students. The Mary M. Jennings Memorial Scholarship pays tribute to Mrs. Jennings and her strong belief in the beauty of and opportunities available at CCHS. Eighth graders currently enrolled in CCHS may apply for this scholarship which provides $1000 per year (renewable each year if student maintains school standards) toward CCHS tuition. Selection of the recipient is based on commitment to Catholic education, financial need, strength of character, and involvement in school activities. To apply, the student should: 1) write name at the top left-hand corner of a piece of paper; 2) list schools attended since kindergarten; 3) describe involvement in school activities; 4) explain how the scholarship will affect applicant’s educational plans; 5) tell anything special the applicant would like the scholarship selection committee to know. SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED IN THE SCHOOL OFFICE BY FRIDAY, MAY 7.

DIOCESAN TUITION ASSISTANCE -- For the 20^th consecutive year, the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) is striving to keep Catholic school education affordable for Catholic families who desire it for their children but may need some financial assistance to make that dream a reality. Thanks to Bishop Bransfield’s ongoing and genuine commitment to Catholic school education, funds have once again been allocated for distribution to Catholic families in need of assistance. Applying for TAP through FACTS is easy so start putting together the information you will need to apply (e.g., 2009 tax return information). Awards are based upon a family's degree of need relative to all other applicants. Apply on-line at: https://www.factstuitionaid.com. Families with children currently enrolled or already accepted for the 2010-2011 school year should apply by April 20, 2010. Families who enroll and are accepted after April 20, 2010 must apply by September 1, 2010. The deadlines, set by the diocese, are firm. No assistance will be available from the Diocese or from any school unless an application is submitted and all required documentation is provided. Call Lisa Shay at CCHS for more information.

HOPE -- Our summer housing outreach project in Clay County will be June 20-26, 2010.  A workshop for all participants is scheduled for Sunday, May 16, 5:30 - 7:30 in the Commons. Many thanks to EQT Foundation which has awarded a $26,000 grant for construction materials for this summer’s HOPE. The EQT Foundation, as part of the EQT Corporation, contributes to the social and economic vitality of the regions where EQT employees live and work. Since it was established in 2003, the Foundation has contributed more than $10 million to nonprofits in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kentucky and Virginia to provide support to projects that help make a difference on critical issues facing society.

PARENT SEMINAR -- On March 9th from 8:15 until 9:00 a.m. Sr. Rosie Hefner from the Kanawha Pastoral Counseling Center will present a program on Compassionate Communication.  Learn how to practice language that deepens connections and aids in respectful communication, helpful to any parent of a teenager.  Participants will learn the four steps of nonviolent communication that will help invite positive responses.

WEAR RED FOR BOBBY DAY – This tribute to Bobby Hypes, member of the CCHS class of 2008 who died of heart disease during his sophomore year, was very successful. Over $2000 was raised which has been deposited into the Bobby Hypes Memorial Scholarship at CCHS. Each year, two rising seniors each receive a $500 CCHS tuition scholarship, one scholarship started by his graduating class and one from the school in Bobby’s memory. We will continue this effort in future years as part of the CCHS program of service and of remembrance.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK FOLLOW-UP – The folks at Manna Meal were overwhelmed by the generosity of the CCHS community. As one supervisor said when the boxes and boxes of food products, personal hygiene items, and other donations were unloaded, “Just when you don’t know where to turn, angels appear.” A wonderful sentiment stated beautifully!

PAX CHRISTI – sponsored a blood drive in January. A follow-up letter from the American Red Cross indicated that 28 individuals participated and that their blood donations have the potential to “save 57 hospital patients.” Many thanks to all who took part in this special effort.

AFTER SCHOOL PICK-UP – Teachers have reported that some parents are ignoring well-established rules regarding pick-up procedures. Picking up/dropping off in the Virginia Street block where the school is located is not permitted. The City of Charleston has established this policy and we need to follow it.

YEARBOOK ADS -- On Sunday, March 14, the school will be open from 5-8 P.M. for those who reserved a space for a yearbook ad.  The entire yearbook staff will be here.  A yearbook student will guide you through the creation of your ad. We ask that you come anytime during the three hour time slot.  Please bring with you the pictures you will use for your spread, the words you would like to use, any ideas for colors of borders and text, and a check to cover the cost of the size you requested.  We are limited in the number of photos we can use depending on the size of the ad.  The fewer photos you have, the bigger and easier they will be to see! Quarter Page – maximum of 4 small photos; Half Page – Maximum of 6 small photos; Full Page – Maximum of ten small photos.  Please email Mrs. Vollmer ASAP (shannon.vollmer@gmail.com) and let her know that you will be at the workshop.

FINAL EXAMS –Remember, students who miss semester exams for reasons other than illness (who will be given the opportunity to make up the exams) will receive an F for those examinations. Just a reminder regarding the seniors- only exam exemption policy: Seniors may be exempt from second semester exams if: 1) the course is a two-semester course; 2) the teacher chooses to allow exam exemptions; 3) third and fourth quarter grades average to at least a 93; 4) fine arts requirements are completed by March 19 and community service requirements by May 14. Students enrolled in AP courses must take the AP exam. School finals will not be given to seniors in AP courses but will be administered to non-seniors. Students who elect to take AP tests in non-AP classes will follow the exam exemption policy. Namely, students in non-AP classes who choose to take AP exams will also take teacher-developed final exams unless they meet the exemption standards (seniors only).

MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETIC BANQUET is scheduled for Sunday April 25, 2010, at 6:00 p.m. at the Pope John XXIII Center. The very popular pasta buffet will be served once again. Seating is limited, so we ask that you submit your reservations early, and that you limit your reservations to your athlete and his/her parents. No siblings or other family members, please. The cost is $12.00 per person. BECAUSE THE MEAL WILL BE CATERED, ONLY THOSE ATHLETES, FAMILIES, AND COACHES HAVING PAID RESERVATIONS WILL BE ABLE TO ENTER THE EVENT. NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD AT THE DOOR. Please complete the reservation form below and return it with payment (check payable to CCHS) to the CCHS office by Monday April 19, 2010. No reservations will be accepted after that time. If you have any questions, please contact Mary Jo Swartz (cell) 304.541.0936, (home) 304.722.8872 after 4:00 p.m., or Leslie Gallian (cell) 304.550.7999, reservation chairpersons. We look forward to seeing you there! ************Reservation Deadline—Monday, April 19, 2010****************

Middle School Athletic Banquet Sunday, April 25, 2010 @ 6 p.m.

Family Name:___________________________________________________________

Number of Persons Attending: __________(x12.00) Total enclosed: $_____________

Name(s) of athletes attending: _____________________________ Grade: _______________

_____________________________ Grade: _______________

_____________________________ Grade: _______________

Name(s) of parents attending: ________________________________________________________

JUNIOR PARENTS – The juniors are in the planning phase for the prom and are being encouraged to share the ideas with their parents. Any parent who would like to lend a hand should pass the word along through their student or call Mrs. Scharf at 304-552-6235.

SPECIAL MEDICAL CONCERNS – Please notify the office if your children develop any special medical needs so we can get the information out to those who need it.

CANSTRUCTION – has been selected as CCHS’s Lenten project, offered in cooperation with the Charleston Interdenominational Council on Social Concerns, an interfaith organization with a membership of over 25 area congregations. CCHS Latin teacher Mrs. Robin Snyder is president of CICSC. Using 1,848 cans of peas, carrots, green beans, potatoes, and pork and beans, the entry will be a replica of the Robert Indiana aluminum sculpture entitled “Hope” which will be on display at the Clay Center March 3-6. The cans will then be donated to the food pantry at First Presbyterian which is sponsored by Covenant House.

TRIANA FIELD SPONSORS - - The high school baseball team has scheduled home games at UC's Triana Field in Kanawha City.  Sponsors are needed for each home game at a cost of $150 per game.  The name of the sponsor will be advertised at the field on game day.  Please contact Bill Gillispie if you are interested in a game day sponsorship.

CCHS SPORTS FAN UMBRELLA - Large green and white umbrellas with "CCHS Irish" logo and shamrock design are available for $25.  If you would like to purchase one of the few umbrellas left, send a check payable to CCHS.

A RECURRING NEED: GLOVES FOR SCIENCE DEPARTMENT – Do you have access to surgical rubber gloves for students to use during science experiments? If so, our science department always needs them!

FOOD FAST 2010 -- Friday, March 5, through Saturday, March 6, is Catholic Relief Services' 24-hour awareness program for youth focusing on global hunger, poverty, and Catholic social teaching. Contact Mrs. Patterson with questions or to sign up.

CCHS PARENT COLLEGE CONNECTION – Many thanks to those parents who have already signed up! If you’re willing to connect with CCHS students who are looking at college options or to speak to classes on topics of interest to you, please enroll on the College Connection section of the CCHS website. No personal information or contact information will be posted on our website.

PARTICIPATION IN SCHOOL SPORTS -- In order to participate in an athletic event on a particular day, a student must be in school for the FULL DAY on the day of the event. This “full day” policy includes appointments so students need to avoid scheduling appointments during the school day. Students are also expected to be on time on days following athletic events.

NOT USING YOUR OLD RECEIVERS AND SPEAKERS? -- If you have old stereo systems (receiver and speakers) that you are no longer using, consider donating them to the school where we will put them to good use as SmartBoard audio systems. Please contact Mr. David Hoffmann if you have questions.

MRS. THOMAS’ TIDBITS –

1) Do you “Twitter?” Keep up with the latest news, information, and deadlines from Mrs. Thomas’ office by signing up on Twitter at CCHScollegeprep to receive periodic “tweets” which may be sent to your e-mail or phone as a text message. Instructions on how to sign up for Twitter are on our website.

2)  SAT and ACT testing and registration dates (CCHS code:  490-205)

SAT and SAT Subject Tests (can register on line -- www.collegeboard.org): 

TEST DATE               DEADLINE               LATE REGISTRATION

                        May 1                          March 25                      April 8

                        June 5                          April 29                         May 13

ACT: (can register on line -- www.act.org)

TEST DATE               DEADLINE               LATE REGISTRATION

                        April 10                          March 5                  March 6-19

June 12                         May 7                          May 8 - 21

3) Students wishing to take AP tests for non-AP courses (e.g., world history, biology, foreign languages, etc.) may choose to do so and must notify Mrs. Thomas by February 26. Each exam costs $90, checks payable to CCHS.

4) PROMISE scholarship and FAFSA deadline – March 1. Students must complete BOTH the PROMISE and the FAFSA applications in order to be considered for the PROMISE scholarship. Additionally, colleges and universities throughout the country use FAFSA information to determine scholarships and financial aid. Go to www.promisescholarships.org .

5) Mrs. Thomas is meeting with juniors individually to begin discussing their college plans. During these sessions, they review test results and student interests and discuss how to look for and choose colleges. Afterwards, students receive lists of colleges that fit their interests so they can begin their college search.

6) CCHS encourages students to take both the ACT and the SAT before the end of their junior year. Doing this allows students to get a baseline score and to prepare for future tests. Both tests are accepted by all colleges and universities for admission. We have found the students perform better on these tests if they are taken before the end of the school year. By the June testing dates, students tend to be tired and not as fresh. So, if possible, consider an earlier test date. Juniors may need to take SAT II subject tests which are best taken at the end of the junior year or upon completion of courses being tested.

7) 7^th and 8^th graders interested in applying for the Governor’s School for Math and Science need to act quickly. The process at the county and state levels is competitive. Information (e.g., dates, location) will be available, along with application materials, on January 30 at www.wvgovschools.org. Applications must be submitted to Mrs. Thomas by March 8. Note the qualifications carefully and make sure that your child meets the criteria.

NOTES FROM THE PARENT VOLUNTEER ASSOCIATION (PVA) –

1)  Order forms for fleece jackets with CCHS logo, white uniform polo shirts, and green athletic/academic competition polo shirts are available on the CCHS website.  For questions, please contact Lisa Dundervill (344-2566) for fleece jackets, Joanne Bronikowski (344-8850) for green polos, and Lisa Cassis (925-5946) for white polos. 

2)  INNISBROOK  ORDERS – can be placed year-round. Go to www.innisbrook.com and click on “Buy Innisbrook Products” and enter CCHS school number 121949. Call Lisa Dundervill at 344-2566 for more info. 

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. A session is scheduled for February 24 in St. Albans (St. Francis of Assisi). Complete information, links, and forms are on the CCHS website. Please contact Ms. FitzGerald with questions.

SHOWCASE OF TALENT -- Enjoy our creative students in the upcoming Showcase of Talent, scheduled for Tuesday, March 16, at 7 p.m. in the Commons.

HOPE PANCAKE BREAKFAST – Join our HOPE participants at the Power Alley Grill on Saturday, February 27. For $6, you will enjoy a breakfast of pancakes, sausage, juice, and coffee and, at the same time, benefit our June 2010 home renovation project in Clay County.

TENTATIVE CALENDAR FOR 2010-11 – Please keep in mind that exams must be taken on scheduled exam days and students who are absent more than 5 days in a semester will have to make up those days at the end of the semester.

Wednesday, August 18 first day for students

Monday, September 6 Labor Day – no school

Friday, November 12 Veterans’ Day – no school

Wednesday, November 24 11:30 dismissal for Thanksgiving

Wednesday-Friday, December 15 – 17 exams

Monday, December 20 first day of Christmas vacation

Monday, January 3 classes resume

Monday, January 17 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – no school

Monday, February 21 Presidents’ Day – no school

Friday, April 22 Good Friday – first day of Easter break

Monday, May 2 classes resume

Monday, May 30 Memorial Day – no school

Wednesday-Friday, June 1-3 exams for grades 6 – 11

 
GOLDEN HORSESHOE – All 8th graders in West Virginia schools are able to take the “big” test. The 45-minute computer test will be administered state-wide in all public and private schools. CCHS eighth graders will take the test on Thursday, April 1. There will be no make-up date.
 

FINE ARTS CRITIQUES/COMMUNITY SERVICE FORMS -- Forms (on website) must be submitted to teachers during the quarter in which the activity occurred in order to receive credit for the event. Senior fine arts credits must be completed by March 19.

PHOTO WEBSITE – If you haven’t seen it, go to the CCHS website and check out unofficial CCHS photographer Russ Miller’s website. The photos of athletics and events are truly spectacular! All of us benefit from Mr. Miller’s devotion to our students as he works to create a history of CCHS in photos.

CONGRATULATIONS –

- to senior Erin Casey, the CCHS recipient of the St. Thomas Aquinas Award, a diocesan honor recognizing one student from each school who embodies the spirit of the mission and philosophy of Catholic school education. Erin will receive her award at the Bishop’s Dinner in March.

- to our middle school boys’ and girls’ basketball teams, both earning Kanawha County basketball championship status!

- to our high school swimming team, with the girls finishing 4^th overall in the state and boys placing 3^rd overall. Special congratulations to Joseph AbuRahma, state champion in the 200 free and 100 fly. Joseph was named to the All-State Swim Team and qualified for All-American in the 100 fly!

- to CCHS Art teacher Rebecca Burch who has been chosen to participate in the India Institute, sponsored by Davis and Elkins College and the West Virginia Humanities Council.  This summer, she will study the religious art of India at Davis and Elkins, and then spend 9 days visiting sacred sites throughout India in July. 

- to the high school robotics team which competed in Cincinnati at an FTC competition. Despite numerous technical difficulties, the team persevered and upset the number 2 team, placing 2^nd out of 22 schools involved. The team is looking for interested high school students to join the team now in preparation for next year’s competition. Contact Mrs. Sarah Griffith for additional information.

- to the HS boys’ soccer team for being named 23^rd in the nation! This ranking is based on all high school boys’ soccer teams, with all classes combined.

- to teachers Mr. Josh Fix, director, and Mrs. Lorrie Iskula, assistant, and the CCHS drama troupe for their impressive and rollicking rendition of “A Midsummer Night's Dream.” The cast included Josh Arnold, Ben Beckerle, Adam Buscher, Michael Carbone, Crystal Cook, Hillary Frame, Max Gottlieb, Laura Gould, Mandy Harper, Andrew Kaz, Harrison Kesner, Michelle Kidd, Kayla Mason, Ryan McCoy, Patricia Paolini, Stephen Saldanha, Meredith Summers, Austin Thomas, Kit Thomas, Stephanie Trupo, and Ben Williams. The crew was comprised of John Carey, Claire Daly, John Daly, Jimmy Fauss, Michael Gouhin, Emily Gould, Patrick Hart, Matthew James, Matthew Saldanha, and David Zekan.
- to the CCHS pep band for its spirited contributions to home high school basketball games. Members include Mark Cavender, Patrick Hart, Tanner Jameson, Stephen Saldanha, Matthew Saldanha, Emily Witsberger, and Mr. Josh Fix.
- to our cheerleaders and their sponsors for their enthusiastic and talented leadership at high school basketball games – they contributed mightily to the positive aura present in the gym: Joanie Zekan, Lauren Panaro, Alexandrine Ratnani, Samantha Busch, Maggie Baker, Christine Snyder, Kristi Gennette, Emily Cline, Gianna Covelli, and sponsors Ms. Candice Jarrell and Mrs. Lindsey Dolan.

- to 7^th and 8^th graders for their impressive peace and social justice projects – a wide range of topics presented in unique, creative ways!

THANKS –

- to PVA for providing special valentine treats for faculty and staff. The treats were yet another manifestation of families’ commitment to nurture the nurturers at CCHS.

- to Bob and Diana Hypes for providing two slices of pizza to students, faculty, and staff on “Wear Red for Bobby Day.” What a thoughtful way to thank our community for keeping Bobby’s memory alive!

- to Mrs. Gail Stone and our choir members for all they do to add to the beauty of school liturgies – Phoebe Crow, Ian Smith, Patrick Hart, Mickey Swartz, Miranda Femia, Anna Schles, Samantha Riggs, Molly Breese, Meg Whelan, Christina Criniti, Michelle Kidd, Mary Elliott, Lauren DiFilippo, Hannah Grubb, Sara James, Kayla Mason, Drew Cable, Andy Hoyer, Hunter white, Sam Kessler, Austin Thomas, Stephen Saldanha, Mrs. Dara Krack, Mrs. Michelle Patterson, Mr. Josh Fix.

- to Tommy McCarty of Architecture Interior Products for donating 4 exceptionally designed and custom-made ball carts to be used by our middle and high school basketball teams.
- to all who made our annual Mardi Gras tradition possible by baking homemade king cakes (with a baby Jesus in each one, as per New Orleans style!): Dena Wilcox (also chairperson), Erica Bailey, Joan Baldwin, Rebecca Burch, Lisa Clonch, Betsey Crockett, Michelle Drake, Caryn Gresham, Tyshawn James-Hart, Judy Hamilton, Vicki Holstein, Chrissy Hovorka, Julia Hurney, Jackie Kay, Shannon Lane, Rosemary Levenson, Gwyneth Owen, Bianca Morales, Victor Nease, Lori Ray, Iris Settle, Carla Stricker, Mary Jo Swartz, Katy White.

- to “alumni” parent Caryn Gresham for helping with the high school boys’ basketball program.

- to middle school basketball coaches, athletes, and parents for working together to create a stupendous season!

SCHOOL CLOSINGS/DELAYS DUE TO SNOW/ICE – – You know the drill! Don’t forget to check the CCHS website and to sign up for Twitter regarding school closings/delays. Several parents have also reported that you can go to http://www.wchstv.com/newsroom/mobile/ and choose to have a text when there is a school delay or closing.  Enter the number and the school, and when there is a delay, you will get a text. As always, if you cannot get your child to school for health or safety reasons, please notify the school office.

CALENDAR FOR 2009-10 SCHOOL YEAR

Wednesday, February 24 VIRTUS at St. Francis of Assisi (St. Albans), 4:30 p.m.

Thursday, February 25 6^th grade activity, 3:15- 4:15 p.m.

Saturday, February 27 HOPE Pancake Breakfast, 8- 10a.m. at the Power Alley Grill

Friday, March 5 scheduling forms for 2010-2011 due

Friday, March 5-6 Food Fast benefiting Catholic Relief Services

Tuesday, March 9 Parent Seminar on Compassionate Communication presented by Sr. Rosie Hefner, 8:15- 9:00 a.m. in the Commons

National Latin Exam, 3^rd period

Sunday, March 14 Yearbook ad workshop 5 – 8 p.m.

Tuesday, March 16 Showcase of Talent 7 p.m. in the Commons

Friday, March 19 end of third quarter

Monday, March 22 week of standardized testing for grades 6-8 (tentative)

Spring break Italy trip for Latin students; Costa Rica trip for high school group

Thursday, April 1 Golden Horseshoe Test for 8^th graders

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

Monday, April 12 classes resume

Thursday, April 22 9^th grade retreat at Camp Virgil Tate

Friday, April 23 diocesan inservice for teachers – no school for students

Saturday, April 24 Prom

Sunday, April 25 MS Athletic Banquet 6 p.m. at John XXIII – RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

May 3 – 14 AP exams

Saturday, May 29 baccalaureate 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, May 30 graduation 6 p.m.

Monday, May 31 Memorial Day – no school

Tuesday – Thursday, June 1 – 3 exams for grades 6 – 8 (11:15 dismissal on Wednesday/Thursday only)

Wednesday-Friday, June 2-4 exams for grades 9 – 11

February/March Menu

NOTE: During Lent, we do not serve meat on Ash Wednesday or on Fridays. IF THERE IS A TEAM LUNCH SCHEDULED ON ANY OF THESE DAYS, PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE MEAT IN YOUR RECIPES!!!!!

Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri
Week of February 22- Pizza	Meatball sub Greek salad Tater tots	Baked chicken Mashed potato Green beans	Hot dogs Shoestring fries Nachos	No meat today! Veggie stir fry Rice Broccoli cheese soup
Week of March 1 – Pizza	Pork BBQ Tater tots Pasta salad	Chicken gyros Rice Hummus – pita	Steak hoagies Peppers – onion Onion rings	Cheese pretzel bread sandwiches Tomato soup Steamed veggies
Week of March 8 – Pizza	Tacos Super nachos Beans – cheese	Grilled chicken sandwiches Baked sweet potato Chicken caesar salad	Corn dogs Vegetable soup Corn bread	Mac – cheese Bosco stix Garden salad
Week of March 15- Pizza	Cheeseburgers Homemade chili Chili-chips-cheese	Buffalo chicken sandwiches Smiley fries Green jello cake	Chicken tenders Shoestring fries Applesauce cake	Fish sandwiches Cole slaw Hush puppies Clam chowder soup
Week of March 22- Pizza	Hot roast beef on a bun Curly fries Nachos	Chicken parm Baked potato Pudding cup	Fried chicken Mashed potatoes Green beans Roll	Pasta alfredo Baked penne with marinara sauce Garlic toast
Week of March 29- Pizza	Chili cheese dogs French fries Cantaloupe slices	Hot Italian Subs Antipasto salad Baked potato

HOPE 2010 (Housing Outreach Project Express) – In June 2010, a group of 70 Charleston Catholic students, teachers, parents, and alumni will offer emergency home repair assistance to ten low-income families in Clay County. This summer marks the 20th consecutive year that we have participated in a ministry of emergency home repair in a neighboring county.

WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT. We need to raise $30,000 for construction supplies. Please consider making a donation to purchase needed building materials to make the homes of economically disadvantaged families warmer, drier, and safer. All donations are tax deductible. Please make checks payable to “Charleston Catholic.” Note “HOPE Donation” on the memo line. Send your donation together with the form below to the school office to the attention of Bill Mehle. THANKS FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION AND SUPPORT.

**************************************************************************************

Name ________________________________________________________________________

Address_______________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

YES, I want to support the CCHS Housing Outreach Project Express.

Enclosed is my check for:

_____$100 _____$50 _____ $25 _____$10 _____other

Checks should be made payable to HOPE/CCHS and should be mailed to CCHS, ATTN: Bill Mehle, 1033 Virginia Street, Charleston, WV 25301