Holy Name Parents’ Guide Provided By 2015 -16 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Dear Parents and Guardians, On behalf of the Holy Name Parents Association, we want to welcome you to our family. As you and your family begin the transition from elementary school to middle school or from middle school to high school, the Parents Association would like to help keep you informed by providing you with an overview of information about daily life at Holy Name. This is our second edition of the Parents’ Guide, and our hope is that each year, with your feedback, we will continue to enhance and improve this guide. Just a few things to keep in mind while you read through this: This is designed to give you a high level overview of the items listed in the guide. Any title that has (Handbook) indicates there is additional information provided in the Student/Parent Handbook which is distributed to all students the first week of school. This Student/Parent Handbook can also be found online at holyname.net. Nothing in this guide is meant to contradict the Student/Parent Handbook, which takes precedence over the Parents Association Guide. If you need more information about a specific topic, feel free to contact the school or send an email to hnparentassoc@holyname.net In addition to this guide, the Parents Association will host two Q&A sessions for all families. The first session will be August 12th 6:00 PM until 7:30 in the school cafeteria. The second one will be Wednesday September 3rd at 7:00 PM in the school cafeteria. Members of the administration will also be available to help answer your questions. We want all parents/guardians to feel welcomed and well informed. We look forward to meeting you and/or receiving your feedback throughout the year! Best regards, Kathy Rabbett 2015-16 President – Holy Name Parents Association 1 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Contents Books (Handbook)................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Uniforms (Handbook).............................................................................................................................................................. 3 First Day FAQs........................................................................................................................................................................ 4 School Supplies ........................................................................................................................................................................ 5 Lockers .................................................................................................................................................................................... 5 Student Drop Off/Pick Up ...................................................................................................................................................... 5 Daily Class Schedule (Handbook)............................................................................................................................................. 6 Lunch Schedule (Handbook) .................................................................................................................................................... 6 How do I communicate with my child’s teacher?...................................................................................................................... 7 Holy Name Guidance Department ........................................................................................................................................... 7 Extracurricular activities ........................................................................................................................................................... 9 Athletics ................................................................................................................................................................................. 14 Athletics FAQ’s ..................................................................................................................................................................... 16 School Bookstore (Handbook) ............................................................................................................................................... 17 Generic Calendar ................................................................................................................................................................... 17 Did You Know That .............................................................................................................................................................. 23 Parents Association Information ............................................................................................................................................ 24 Communication Tools............................................................................................................................................................ 24 2 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Books (Handbook) In the early part of the summer preceding the school year, the administration will provide all parents with each student’s schedule for the 2015-16 school year along with a list of book titles and ISBN # that families will need to purchase books for the school year. Books can be purchased through Follett Books, and directions for this will be provided by the school. In addition to the Follett Book website, there are additional websites parents have used in the past to purchase books for the school year. These are listed below. http://www.amazon.com/New-Used-Textbooks-Books/b?node=465600 http://www.alibris.com https://www.chegg.com http://www.abebooks.com http://www.half.ebay.com Holy Name is also exploring the use of Techbooks from Discovery Education in place of traditional texts. In 20152016, the seventh and eighth grade science classes will be piloting this program. For these classes, a textbook purchase will not be required. Instead, a license fee to access the techbook online will be collected during the first week of classes. This fee will be approximately fifteen dollars. Uniforms (Handbook) New this year – the Parents Association collected gently used uniforms and will have a uniform sale at school on Wednesday July 15th from 6 to 7:30 provided there are been enough donations received at the end of the school year.. An email announcement will be sent at the end of the school year. Each uniform item will be sold for $5 and will be available on a first come first serve basis. Families can purchase school uniforms at J.B. Edward Uniforms located at 65 Southbridge St, Auburn MA (508.792 .2071). Families may also set up an account at www.jbedwarduniforms.com and shop on-line. Specific uniform requirements can be found in the Student/Parent Handbook. In addition to school uniforms, seventh and eighth grade students are also required to have gym uniforms also purchased through J.B. Edward Uniforms. Requirements for gym wear can be found in the Student/Parent Handbook. In September our school has an annual fundraiser which includes spirit wear. Please consider purchasing your spirit wear items during this time; this not only helps our school but also gives students an opportunity to participate in the rewards of participating in the fund raiser. The three most popular items that have been purchased in the past are: 1. Quarter Zip Sweatshirt (This piece may also be worn as part of the uniform.) 2. Moisture Hoodie Sweatshirt 3. Hoodie Sweatshirt Our spirit wear company is 1st String. Please visit the link below to see all the spirit wear items that are available to students and families http://1ststringstore.com/Holy_Name 3 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ First Day FAQs When is the first day of school? This is announced a few weeks before school begins; it will be posted on the school website and emailed to all families. Typically we follow the schedule below: Seventh and eighth grades ONLY attend on day one. Ninth grade and transfer tenth and eleventh graders ONLY attend on day two. All students will attend on day three. Where should student report the first day of school? On the first day of school, students will wait outside the school and be greeted by teachers and students while enjoying the Holy Name band. At 7:45, they will be called into the school’s auditorium for an assembly. On the first day of school for each grade, students from the National Honor Society will be positioned throughout the school to help new students find their way and answer any questions students may have during the course of the day Transfer students will meet with guidance on their designated start day and will receive schedules and a tour of the school What is the time frame for wearing shorts? Can shorts be worn the first day of school? Shorts can be worn on day one and can be worn until it gets cold, typically mid fall. Will students be assigned a locker; do we need to provide a lock? Locks must be purchased from the Holy Name bookstore for five dollars each. The bookstore will be open for a short time before school begins but most students who need to buy locks will buy them after day one. This is also addressed in a letter welcoming students to the new school year which goes out in early August. The students are assigned lockers on the first day of school Is there time between classes to obtain material from a locker? There is three minutes passing time between classes. Students normally have time to go to their lockers in between classes to exchange materials Will student have the same lunch time every day? Most students have lunch at the same time every day o Grades eleven and twelve typically have first lunch from 10:47 until 11:14. o Grades seven through ten have second lunch which runs from 11:50 until 12:17. o There may be exceptions to this depending on the student’s individual schedule. o Actual lunch schedules may change based on enrollment and are finalized each summer. Do teachers have designated after school help time? Should students arrange that with each individual teacher? Teachers are available Monday – Thursday from 1:50 to 2:30 for extra help. No appointment is necessary but the student can let the teacher know he/she is coming. Teachers will also stay on Friday at a student’s or parent’s request. 4 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Does Holy Name have internet access in all classrooms? Holy Name is Wi-Fi accessible throughout the building. Students use tablets, chrome books, laptops, etc. It is up to what the student wants to use. School Supplies What are the general supplies needed? Pens/pencils, notebook or binder with paper, agenda book/planner. How do you find out specific needs for child's classes? Each teacher has their own list of supplies needed for their class (es). The teacher will hand out a list of specific supplies needed for each particular class on the first or second day of school. Are there supplies available at the book store? Yes - there are some supplies available at the bookstore (see Bookstore on page 16) Whom can I contact with questions? Contact the teacher for questions regarding class specific supplies. All teachers can be reached by e-mail at first name followed by a period and last name @holyname.net i.e. john. doe@holyname.net Lockers Each student is required to lock their belongings in their assigned school locker. Any student who puts their belongings in the athletic locker rooms must also lock their belongings in a locker or basket. Locks must be purchased from the Holy Name Bookstore. Any locks not purchased from the bookstore will be removed. The school is not responsible for any items lost due to a failure to use a bookstore lock secured with a combination only the student knows. Student Drop Off/Pick Up All parents dropping off should take a right turn after entering the driveway. They should continue up the hill (this side is a one way section) and then enter the horseshoe by taking a left immediately before the gymnasium. Parents should then continue through the horseshoe to drop off students in front of the center doors. After drop off, parents can continue through the horseshoe and re-enter the one way traffic flow. Note students driving to school themselves will take a left at the entrance of the driveway and drive up the hill to the student parking lot; please be aware of two way traffic on this side of the driveway. Please do not drop off students in front of the old convent building, and please do not take a left turn up the driveway to drop off by the teacher’s parking lot behind the gymnasium. Both of these scenarios present dangers to students and can cause an accident. 5 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Daily Class Schedule (Handbook) Holy Name has a seven period daily schedule that rotates over the course of seven days. Each period is approximately forty-five minutes long, with the fifth period being an hour long to accommodate lunches. Each period is associated with the 1st 7 letters of the alphabet A, B, C, D, E, F, and G to identify the day. Students have seven periods each day, which are also on a rotating cycle and identified with letters A through G. For example, on A Day, the first period is A period, second period is B period, third period is C period, and so on. On B Day, first period is B period, second period is C period, third period is D period, and so on. Courses are scheduled by specific periods identified by letter. For example, if your student has math during B period, then he or she will have math during B period on each day of the seven day cycle. Each day begins with students meeting in homeroom from 7:30 to 7:35 for prayer and announcements before dispersing to follow their daily class schedule. Holy Name Daily Schedule: 7:30 – 7:35 Homeroom st 7:40 – 8:23 1 period nd 8:26 – 9:11 2 period rd 9:14 – 9:59 3 period th 10:02 – 10:47 4 period 10:47 – 11:14 Lunch I 5th period Lunch II 6th period 7th period 10:50 – 12:17 11:50 – 12:17 12:20 – 1:05 1:08 - 1:50 Study Hall There are seven periods each day. Students in grades nine through twelve usually choose to take six academic courses and have a study during the unfilled block. Some choose to take seven courses and will not have a study period. Students in grades seven and eight have an activity period and six academic courses. The activity period will consist of team games, study and either music, theater, or computers. Please note: these selections are subject to change as the final master schedule is built. Lunch Schedule (Handbook) Holy Name has two lunch periods. The first runs from 10:47 to 11:17, and the second runs from 11:50 to 12:17. Seniors and juniors have first lunch; the remaining students have second lunch. There are a few exceptions: students with study for the hour period have second lunch, students with team games and students with band for the hour period have second lunch, and teachers with students in classes containing multiple grades choose first or second lunch at the beginning of the year. 6 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ How do I communicate with my child’s teacher? The best way to contact a member of the Holy Name faculty is to e-mail them directly by using their first name followed by a period and last name @holyname.net. For example, to contact Mr. Reynolds you would e-mail him at ed.reynolds@holyname.net. A directory of email addresses will be published on the Holy Name website at the beginning of September. The names of the faculty can be found by going to the Holy Name web page, http://www.holyname.net/ Click the “About Our School” tab Then the “Faculty & Staff” tab. Faculty members are listed by department. If you are unable to reach the teacher by e-mail, please call the main number, 508.753.6371, to leave a message. You should receive a response within 24 hours in a business day. There is also an opportunity to meet with your child’s teachers at Parent/Teacher Conferences which are held in November after the distribution of the first quarter report cards. Holy Name Guidance Department The mission of the Holy Name Guidance Department is to focus on the academic and personal needs of each individual student. Academically, the guidance department advises and directs students as they work towards an appropriate college placement. Personally, the guidance department helps students to understand themselves in relation to the world in which they live, to recognize their strengths and weaknesses, and to develop an ability to cope with and solve problems. The guidance department recognizes that educational, personal and social components contribute to the development of the whole individual. Meeting with Students and Parents The Guidance Department is open for all students to assist them with their needs. The Guidance Department will meet with parents as needed. Parents can schedule appointments with their child’s guidance counselor by calling the Guidance Department at 508.753.3813. The Guidance Department will hold two college information nights during the school year: one for parents of freshmen, sophomores, and juniors regarding the college application process and one for parents of juniors and seniors regarding the financial aid process. Both of these information nights will be conducted by MEFA. A representative form the Guidance Department will attend the October Parents Association meeting and another Parents Association meeting as well (month to be determined) to address any general concerns. The Guidance Department meets individually and in group settings with students as follows: o 7th, 8th, and 9th grade Meet in small groups once during the fall and once during the spring to get to know each student in general. Meet individually as needed throughout the year to discuss academic and personal needs. All students will meet one on one with their counselor at least once during the year. o 10th grade Meet in small groups during the fall to introduce Collegeboard and to register students on Naviance. Meet individually as needed throughout the school year. All students will meet one on one with their counselor at least once during the year. 7 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ o 11th grade Meet individually throughout the school year to focus on college planning, understanding Naviance and prepping for SATs and ACTs. All students will meet one on one with their counselor at least twice during the year. th o 12 grade Meet individually throughout the school year to focus on their college application and placement. All students will meet one on one with their counselor twice during the year, once during the fall and once during the spring. Naviance Naviance is a comprehensive college and career readiness online program for schools that aligns student strengths and interests to post-secondary goals and assists in the college application and placement process. All parents should familiarize themselves with this program and are especially invited to the Parents Association meeting in October if they have any questions on how this program works. Holy Name’s Naviance website is: https://connection.naviance.com/family-connection/auth/login/?hsid=hncch Family Connection from Naviance® links counselors and schools with students and parents to improve college and career planning Provides a powerful link between school and home Customized to save student’s personal profile Secure website that supports planning How Can I Use Naviance? Success Planning Personalized Goal and Tasks, Journal Entries, Student Planner. College Planning College Search, Application Process, College Major Exploration, Scholarship/Financial Aid Resources. For Students Students are provided with their own personal Holy Name email address and Naviance accounts through their guidance counselor. The Guidance Department meets with the students and directs them through their log in process. Counselors will give students the tutorials they need to get started and work through the “Careers” and “College” tabs. For Parents Go to: https://connection.naviance.com/family-connection/auth/login/?hsid=hncch. Enter your provided username and temporary password (this will be sent via email from Family Connection). Once you log in, you can change your password. This process will link you to your student’s account. 8 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Questions/Concerns The Guidance Department website is http://www.holyname.net/academics-section/guidance-department/ The Guidance Office phone – 508 753-3813 By email: o Sue.ivas@holyname.net o Peggy.kohn@holyname.net o Katelyn.grenier@holyname.net o Jen.maurello@holynamenet Extracurricular activities Whether you like sports, music and theater, board games or skiing, there are many activities for every student to enjoy at Holy Name that keeps our school bustling long after the official school day is over. At Holy Name, our faculty, staff and administration are committed to providing a wide range of activities so that every student has an opportunity to participate and become a part of Holy Name’s community. Moderators (who are faculty members) are available to answer any questions about their programs and can be contacted via e-mail using their first name followed by a period and last name@holyname.net. ex. ed.reynolds@holyname.net If you have an idea for an activity or club that is not listed and that you feel will enrich Holy Name’s community, please contact Mr. Reynolds at ed.reynolds@holyname.net. Any new club will require at least ten participants and a willing faculty moderator. Class Officers Each graduating class in the senior high school elects four officers to represent them in school matters and to organize events for their class including proms, fundraisers, and other activities. Officers for grades ten through twelve are elected in the spring of the year previous. Freshman officers are elected in the fall. Officers meet at the direction of the Class Moderators. Class Officer - Moderators for 2015-16 Junior High – Mrs. Sue Russo Freshman – TBD Sophomore – Mr. Joel Seger, Mrs. Christine Seger and Ms. Marnie Lourenco Juniors – Ms. Marlena Gervelis and Ms. Taylor Marek Seniors – Mrs. Susan Hughes and Ms. Aimie Lee National Honor Society – Moderator: Mrs. Karen Loin Students apply for and are accepted into the Holy Name chapter of the National Honor Society. This society creates an enthusiasm for scholarship, stimulates a desire to render service, promotes worthy leadership, and encourages the development of character. Meetings begin in September and are announced one week prior to being held. Each meeting is offered on two dates to facilitate the busy schedules of involved students. Participating students must be sophomores or above and must maintain a high level of achievement regarding academics, leadership, and character. 9 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ National Junior Honor Society – Moderator: Ms. Kelly Cox Seventh and eighth graders students apply for and are accepted into the Holy Name chapter of the National Junior Honor Society. The principles of the National Honor Society regarding academics, service, leadership, and character articulated above apply. Inducted students meet monthly on Wednesday afternoon’s beginning in September. Peer Tutoring Both honor societies provide peer tutoring for students interested in academic support. These arrangements are organized and supervised by the Guidance Department and the society moderators. Mock Trial – Moderator: Mr. Jonathan Meagher The Mock Trial team competes against other Massachusetts high schools. The Massachusetts Bar Association creates a case to be argued by students acting as witnesses and attorneys. The season runs from October to March, and the team meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 2:00 – 4:00. The team also meets on selected weekends and some school vacation days. Math Team - Moderator: Ms. Maureen Connolly The math team works each week on challenging math problems in preparation for competing in the Worcester County Mathematics League. The team begins in September and meets Wednesdays from 2:00 – 2:30. Junior High Math Team - Moderator: Mrs. Susan Russo This team competes in the fall and spring in a semi-annual math meet. The team solves puzzles and finds different ways to delve into the wonderful world of math. The team begins in September and meets after school dependent on the schedules of team members. Creative Writing Competition Club - Moderator: Mrs. Kathleen Bisson This club fosters a love and appreciation for creative writing. Students submit their works to a variety of established writing contests throughout the year. The organization begins in September and meets Fridays at 2:00. S.A.D.D. - Moderator: Mrs. Ann Weeks Students Against Destructive Decisions is dedicated to peer education and the modeling of constructive decision making. The group begins during the first week of school and requires a signed contract from the students and parent/guardian. The group meets during the first week of each month and during ministry periods Christian Leaders - Moderator: Ms. Taylor Marek Students are called to be stewards of God’s word at the school through peer leadership and outreach. They will lead the school community by a positive example lived out with a humble spirit. The group begins in September and meets once a month and during ministry periods. All members must possess a desire to follow the Gospel message. Matthew 25: 26-28. Camp Sunshine - Moderator: Mr. Rob Heald Students travel to Camp Sunshine in Maine during the summer between junior and senior year to act as counselors at this camp serving children who have a life threatening disease and their families. The group begins in December for juniors in good standing. There are three after school meetings after February. 10 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Concert Band - Moderator: Mr. Dan Gabel For advanced musicians, this band performs at Christmas and spring concerts as well as one competition and also performs at pep rallies and other school events. The band begins meeting in September and meets Thursdays from 2:00 – 3:00 and during study halls. Students must audition for this band. Concert Chorus - Moderator: Ms. Marlena Gervelis For advanced singers, this ensemble performs at Christmas and spring concerts as well as one competition. The chorus begins in September and meets Fridays from 2:00 – 3:00. There are no prerequisites to participate. Intermediate Band - Moderator: Mr. Dan Gabel For students with some experience and proficiency, this band performs two concerts per year. They begin meeting in October and meet Wednesdays from 2:00 – 3:00 and during study halls. Jazz Band - Moderator: Mr. Dan Gabel For advanced musicians, this ensemble performs jazz standards and improvisation several times a year at the school and in the greater community. Students must audition in October, and the group meets Mondays and Fridays from 2:00 – 3:00. Music Ministry- Moderator: Mr. Brett Penza Students share their musical talents during Masses and other religious celebrations. Some musical experience recommended but not required. This ministry meets before and during all scheduled school Masses. Theatre Guild - Moderator: Mrs. Heather Bonczek The Holy Name Theatre Guild produces a fall play and an in-house, one act play competition. Students become involved in all aspects of production. All are welcome; no theatre experience is necessary. This group begins in September typically meeting after school Mondays through Wednesdays. Spring Musical – Moderator: Mr. Joel Seger The Spring Musical is produced each year. All students are welcome and invited to audition. Auditions usually occur in the late fall. Rehearsals are held on Mondays through Wednesdays after school and on some select weekends and vacation days. The musical is presented in March. Students not only perform but are also invited to create sets, act as ushers, and in others aspects of production. Study Skills - Moderators: Mrs. Wendy Yakstis and Mrs. Kelly Cox This supplementary course is offered after school for students working on their organizational skills and study techniques. Meetings are Tuesday and Thursday from 2:00 – 4:00. There is a fee requirement with this offering. French Club - Moderator: Mrs. Jean Yarsites The French Club explores aspects of French culture and civilization. Activities include preparation and tasting of food, Mardi Gras observance, films, and games. This group begins meeting in September and is open to any students taking French. Meetings are twice per month. 11 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Ski Club - Moderator: Mr. Edward Reynolds Any student is welcome to join the ski club which travels to Wachusett Mountain on six Tuesdays after school in January/February. The group also makes a day trip to a New Hampshire ski resort. Lessons and rentals are available at Wachusett; no experience necessary. The group meets once in November to distribute information and signup sheets. Bowling Club - Moderator: Mr. Gerry Padilla This club offers a fun, relaxed but competitive atmosphere in which to learn the sport of bowling. No experience is necessary. The club begins in the fall, practices on Mondays from 3:00 – 4:45 and has matches on Fridays from 3:15 – 5:45 Minecraft Club - Moderator: Ms. Kelly Cox Seventh and eighth graders gather in the library to play this creative building game on school computers or personal devices. The group begins in September and meets weekly on Mondays from 2:00 – 4:00. Students must have their own minecraft account. Intramural Games - Moderator: Mr. Michael Hoogasian This activity is designed for students in grades seven, eight or nine who do not participate in a fall sport. A variety of co-ed games are played in a relaxed non-competitive atmosphere. Games include volleyball, kickball, and Frisbee. They begin in mid-September and continue until Thanksgiving. This activity is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:30 – 4:00. Intramural Basketball - Moderator: Mr. Michael Hoogasian This group meets on days to be determined from 2:30 – 4:30 from October until Thanksgiving to play basketball in the gym. Scrabble Club - Moderator: Mrs. Patricia Peters Students meet informally to play scrabble in teams of two. The group begins in October and meets Tuesdays bimonthly from 1:50 – 2:30. Investment Club - Moderator: Mrs. Patricia Peters Students learn the basics of investing by choosing a stock portfolio and monitoring its performance. The group begins in October and meets monthly on an announced Thursdays from 1:50 – 2:30. Students can join at any point in the school year. Rock Climbing Club - Moderators: Ms. Maureen Connolly The club meets each week to climb at the Central Rock gym and has a class once a month to improve technique. The group begins in October. Students must provide a signed waiver and a forty-five dollar monthly fee. Meetings are Thursdays from 2:30 – 4:30. 12 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ International Travel Club - Moderators: Mr. Greg Marcotte and Mrs. Wendy Yakstis The club organizes international trips undertaken during April vacation. These trips usually occur once every two years. There is a significant cost involved in participation. The first meetings generally occur in October eighteen months before the trip then meetings are bi-monthly the year previous to the trip and monthly during the year of departure. Students must submit their names to administration for approval and must sign and abide by a contract to remain eligible. Comic Book Club - Moderator: Mr. Mike Fleming The comic book club is a team of writers and artists collaborating to create professional grade comic books. The club is dedicated to a creative environment where students can combine good writing and great artwork to tell stories. Meetings begin on the second Thursday of the school year and are held each Thursday after school. Members should have writing or art skills and a good work ethic. 13 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Athletics This section provides a list of the athletic teams at Holy Name along with timelines, coaches, practice fields and home game fields. Announcements will be made at school when the tryouts will start (these will also be posted on our website), and the schedules of each of the teams will also be listed on our website. The Athletic Director at Holy Name is Jim Manzello (jim.manzello@holyname.net). In order to tryout for any athletic team, the student must present three items to the coach before the beginning of tryouts: 1. A physical form signed by your family doctor indicating that a physical exam has been performed in the past twelve months and the students has been cleared to participate as a result of this exam. 2. A parental permission form is required. This form can be downloaded from the athletic department’s web page or procured from Mr. Manzello. 3. A Concussion in Sports certification is required. The MIAA has made the Concussion in Sports certification mandatory for all players and parents. The link for the concussion course can be found at http://nfhslearn.com to complete the course. Students and parents must complete the course on-line, print out the certificate of completion, and bring the certificate to the coach. Fall Sports Tryouts are held during the third week in August. The regular season runs from September through October, and varsity playoff games are played in November Sports Offered Head Coach Home Game Location Practice Location (subject to change) Football Girls Varsity Soccer Girls JV Soccer Boys Varsity Soccer Boys JV Soccer Mike Pucko Holy Name Bill Manzello Holy Name TBD Holy Name Gerry Padilla Holy Name TBD Holy Name Holy Name Field Holy Name Field/Hasset Field Sutton Holy Name Field/Hasset Field Sutton Holy Name Field/Hasset Field Sutton Holy Name Field/Hasset Field Sutton Field Hockey Aimie Lee Holy Name Holy Name Field Cheerleading Tina Borelli Holy Name Gym Holy Name Gym Golf Rob Riggierri Clearview Country Club Clearview Country Club Boys/Girls Cross Country Track John Gilberg Holy Name Holy Name 14 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Winter Sports Tryouts are held during the first in December. The regular season runs from December through February, and varsity playoff games are played in March. Sports Head Home Game Practice Location Offered Coach Location (subject to change) Girls Varsity Basketball Barry Finneron Holy Name Gym Holy Name Gym Girls JV Basketball Ron Scarborough Holy Name Gym Holy Name Gym Girls Freshman Basketball Craig Derrell Holy Name Gym Holy Name Gym Boys Varsity Basketball Jason Chavour Holy Name Gym Holy Name Gym Boys JV Basketball Cory Sklarz Holy Name Gym Holy Name Gym Boys Freshman Basketball TBD Holy Name Gym Holy Name Gym Cheerleading Boys & Girls Indoor Track Tina Borelli Various Holy Name Gym Aimie Lee Various Holy Name Gym Spring Sports Tryouts are held during the third week in March. The regular season runs from April through May, and varsity playoff games are played in June. Sports Offered Girls Varsity Softball Girls JV Softball Boys Varsity Baseball Boys JV Baseball Boys Freshman Baseball Girls Tennis Boys & Girls Track Boys Lacrosse Head Coach Home Game Location Practice Location (subject to change) Aimie Lee Coburn Ave Coburn Ave TBD Coburn Ave Coburn Ave Jeff Heenan Tivnan Field Steve Haggerty East Park TBD East Park Tivnan Field Vernon Hill/Holy Name Field Vernon Hill/Holy Name Field Chris Briggs Lake Park Lake Park Craig Derrell Various Holy Name Field TBD St Peter Marian St. Peter Marian 15 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Athletics FAQ’s Is there a pre-season meeting with parents/students for sports at Holy Name? Not all coaches hold pre-season meetings. It is at their discretion and more common for the fall sports such as football and soccer. When do sign ups occur for each season of sports? Is there a communication and/or form sent home to parents or do the kids just sign up in school? There are announcements made approximately one month before tryouts with the dates of the actual tryouts and when the sign up will be available. This information is also posted on the Holy Name website and announced during daily school announcements. Students sign up in school and are made aware of three required forms – a physical form, parental permission form, and Concussion in Sports certification. All of these must be completed and turned in before the first day of tryouts in order for the student to participate. Are all students that try out for a sport placed on a team, or are there cuts in certain sports? Holy Name offers at least one sport per season for girls and boys with a no-cut policy, guaranteeing that every student can participate in athletics each season regardless of ability or experience. These include running sports such as Cross Country in the fall and Indoor/outdoor track in the winter & spring. Other sports are dependent on the number of kids trying out and the roster spots available. How do students find out if they make a team after tryouts? This process is dependent on the coach’s preference. Some coaches post the rosters the day after the end of tryouts in the gym. Others prefer to talk to kids individually about their placement decision. Are there fees or costs involved for a student to play a sport? There are no fees to play a sport at Holy Name. There may be costs involved if a team purchases warm up gear (normally at the varsity level) or decides to host a team event. These are optional, and any concerns should be discussed with the coach and/or Athletic Director. When & where are sports schedules and results posted? Each season, schedules for all teams are updated on the Holy Name website, once finalized. The daily calendar of events will include the sports schedules, and the full schedule is posted on the athletic section of the website. Varsity schedules/results are also available on the Telegram & Gazette home team sports website How are practice schedules communicated for each sport and if practices are held off school premises, how is transportation arranged? Practice schedules are communicated individually by each coach, typically on a weekly basis. There are many teams using the same facilities at Holy Name, so practices are scheduled around each team’s game schedule, which can change due to weather etc. Practices or scrimmages may also be scheduled at an off school location, which may require a bus transport for the team. If a bus will not be available, the kids are notified by the coach. Is there an athletic trainer at all practices & games? Is the trainer available during regular school hours for students to contact for sports related injury advice? An athletic trainer is present at all games held at Holy Name High School. Because the baseball/softball games are not held at the school, the trainer attends the Varsity games. The Athletic Director, Jim Manzello, can also contact the trainer to arrange for a consultation for individual injury concerns as needed. 16 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ When do students have access to the weight room or to use the athletic fields/gym at Holy Name outside of assigned practice times? Are there open gym/weight room times for individual conditioning? During the fall sports season, only coaches and sports teams have access to the weight room and athletic fields. During the months of December-June the weight room is open on Mon-Wed-Fri from 2-3:30 for use by any student. Students can speak with the Athletic Director, Jim Manzello if they have a specific request to use a facility. Is there a charge for students/parents to attend sporting events? All regular season games held at Holy Name High School facilities are free for all attendees. Games held at other schools (away games) may charge a fee, typically if they are held at night. Afternoon games are normally free. Which sport involves a Co-Op with St. Peter Marian High School? Due to a limited number of participating students, Holy name currently participates in a co-op agreement with St. Peter Marion High School for Boys Lacrosse. Please contact Jim Manzello, Athletic Director, for any questions about these programs School Bookstore (Handbook) The bookstore/printing station is open during both lunch periods. It is also open during the Open House. If a student is in need of supplies when the bookstore is not open, they can go to the main office, and Mrs. Selvitelli will help the student with their request. Below is a list of the supplies that are typically on hand 6 inch rules Cap erasers Compass Index cards Magnets Holy Name pencils Travel mugs Baseball hats Sweat pants Some paperback books 12 pack of colored pencils Large erasers Glue stick Holy Name lanyards Holy Name notebooks Pens Holy Name window decals Winter hats Scarves Holy Name blankets Hot chocolate mug Hi-liters Locks Pencils Protractors Holy Name wristbands Sweat shirts Shorts The bookstore accepts cash, credit card and checks (made payable to Holy Name). Generic Calendar In addition to the extra-curricular activities and athletics that take place throughout the year, there are other traditional events that occur. This section provides a list of these events and when they generally take place. Please note that the following is subject to slight variations based on events or situations beyond anyone’s control. In June, the Catholic Schools Department at the Diocese of Worcester will adopt an academic calendar for the upcoming school year. From that, a Holy Name academic calendar is created and distributed to our community. 17 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Please understand that things will occur after publication of these calendars that may alter published dates. Things such as inclement weather cancellations may impact the published last day of school. We will keep the community up to date on any changes as we become certain of them. August New Family Q & A – New event this year. The Parents Association along with administration will host a Q & A session for all new families prior to the start of school. This is an open forum and all new parents are encouraged to attend to meet new families and help you with the many questions you may have as you transition to our school. Fall Try Outs – Will take place the 3rd week of August, details would be available on the school website September Parents Association Monthly Meeting – Our meetings are held the 1st Wednesday of every month @ 7PM in the teacher’s lounge. Our first meeting is dedicated to answering questions parents may have about our school. All parents (especially new parents) are encouraged to attend this 1st meeting. Various club/missionary sign ups – During the first couple of weeks of school various clubs and missionary groups will begin. Students will learn about these sign ups via morning announcements. Parents and students can view all of the extracurricular activities on pages XXX of this manual as well as the school website. Founders Day A special day for the school on September 14th (note date may be slightly different if 14th is on a weekend) this annual event celebrates the founding of the school. The Parents Association serves a luncheon for all students, faculty and invited guests. Our annual fall pep rally happens during the afternoon following the Founder’s Day lunch. Communion Breakfast/Senior Sweater Blessing - A gathering in September where we attend Mass as a community on a Sunday morning and have a special blessing of our senior’s sweaters. We then join with families for a continental style breakfast hosted by the Parents Association Freshman/Senior Day – This is annual tradition at Holy Name. This will be a Saturday morning event where seniors partner with freshmen for games and fun as a welcome to our school. Spirit Wear/Magazine Drive – This is an annual fund raiser for our school where all students sell magazine subscriptions and/or Holy Name spirit wear to support the school and earn prizes. NAP News – This is our school newsletter that is sent once a month to all families via email addresses. This provides highlights of upcoming events and/or activities for the month as well as important information. Best Driving School Education Class – Best Driving School is an independent, certified entity that offers driving classes at our school for our students. They will run two week class schedules throughout the school year. Paper Newsletter – This is sent monthly via U.S. Mail. It contains essential information that all families are responsible for. 18 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ October Parents Association Monthly Meeting – Our meetings are held the 1st Wednesday of every month @ 7PM in the teacher’s lounge. Holy Name Entrance Exam – All students interested in attending Holy Name and entering as seventh or ninth graders are required to take an entrance exam. Open House – Each fall our school hosts an open house for students and their families to take a tour of our school and learn more about academics and extra-curricular activities available at Holy Name Financial College Meeting for Juniors & Seniors This meeting serves to provide parents and students with information about the college application and financial aid application process. First Quarter Progress Report – At the half way point of the 1st quarter progress reports will be distributed to all students. This report provides the student’s academic progress to date. Homecoming – An annual event at our school. We begin with a football game which many of our alumni attend and end with a semi-formal dance for all high school students held in the school gym. Holy Name’s Got Talent – is an annual varietystyle talent competition open to all students’ grades 7-12. The show features 3 celebrity judges and a student M.C. and the format runs in the style of the hit television program America's Got Talent! This fantastic event always draws a sold out full house, and our student performers bring amazing talent to the stage, from singing, dancing, comedy, playing musical instruments, large bands, small musical ensembles, you name it, we've got it! This is a great fall tradition that really brings the whole Holy Name community together for a positive and fun-filled evening. A small $5 fee is charged for tickets and the proceeds support the After Senior Prom Party. Parents Association Newsletter – Each month the Parents Association sends a newsletter via email. The newsletter will include updates, volunteer opportunities and upcoming events. Fall Play – Each fall the students in our theater group presents a fall play for our Holy Name students, families and greater community 19 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ November Parents Association Monthly Meeting – Our meetings are held the 1st Wednesday of every month @ 7PM in the teacher’s lounge. Hypnotist Show –Dan Candell's Hypnosis Show is a fun filled night of comedy where the stars of the show are Holy Name students who, under hypnosis, will do the most unpredictable and completely hysterical things. This show is always a student favorite, but it is also completely family friendly and the whole Holy Name community is encouraged and welcome to attend. This event is a great fall tradition that always has everyone laughing and still talking about the show weeks later. A $10 fee is charged for tickets and the proceeds support the After Senior Prom Party. Adopt a Student Variety Show – The Adopt a Student talent show is an event organized by and for the benefit of the Adopt a Student organization. It is typically held at Holy Name. First Quarter Report Cards – Will be distributed during the month of November to all students Parents Association Annual Basket Raffle – This is one of two fundraisers for the Parents Association. Each year families/local businesses donate baskets and/or gift certificates and the Parents Association holds a raffle of these donated baskets during the Parent/Teacher conferences Parent/Teacher Conferences - This is an opportunity for parents/guardians to meet with each of your child (ren’s) teachers one-on-one. The conference will take place on a Thursday night (6 to 8) and Friday from 11:30 to 1:30. Faculty/Senior Basketball Game – is sponsored by the National Honor Society and is held on a Thursday evening. All students and families are invited to attend. Tryouts for Winter Sports – will take place the last week of November or first week in December. There will be morning announcements about this along with updates on the school website Thanksgiving Mass – is held on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and is traditionally said by the Bishop. Eucharistic ministers will be installed at this liturgy. Thanksgiving Food Drive – will be conducted in November by Theology classes. Christmas Giving Tree – will be organized by Theology classes. Christmas Concert – will be performed three times by the Concert Band and Chorus . Second Quarter Progress Reports – will be distributed in the month of December to all students December Parents Association Monthly Meeting – Our meetings are held the 1st Wednesday of every month @ 7PM in the teacher’s lounge. Parents Association Annual Calendar Raffle An annual event, the January Cash Calendar is another fundraiser run by the Parents Association. We prepare and ask families to sell tickets in December and have daily drawings in January 20 Tryouts for Spring Musical – Times for these auditions will be announced. Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ January Parents Association Monthly Meeting – Our meetings are held the 1st Wednesday of every month @ 7PM in the teacher’s lounge Catholic Schools Week – is typically the last week in January and is full of events and initiatives designed to further the mission of Catholic schools in the U.S. Sophomore Class Ring Orders -Balfour a company that specializes in high school rings will provide orders information/costs for all sophomores interested in ordering class rings. The company will come to Holy Name to answer questions and take orders for any student wishing to purchase class rings Midterms - Will take place in January over the course of 4 days. There will be 2 midterms scheduled from 8:00 – 9:30 and from 10:00 to 11:30 each day. (Ex. Day 1 will be for class A & B, Day 2 would be C & D etc.). The schedule will be announced via the morning announcements, newsletter and the website Senior Cap & Gown orders – Measurements and orders are taken during lunch periods for seniors. Second Quarter Reports Cards – will be distributed in January Intermediate Band, Chorus and Jazz Ensemble Concert – will be performed by the junior high students and the Jazz Ensemble. National Honor Society Academic Eligibility Letters (for junior & senior high students) - All students that have qualified academically (see Handbook for more details) will be sent a letter with the necessary requirements that are needed to be completed to be considered/accepted in the NHS. Please feel free to reach the guidance department for more information. Junior High Declamation Contest – All junior high students are encouraged to participate in this Diocesan event. February Parents Association Monthly Meeting – Our meetings are held the 1st Wednesday of every month @ 7PM in the teacher’s lounge. March Parents Association Monthly Meeting – Our meetings are held the 1st Wednesday of every month @ 7PM in the teacher’s lounge. Spring Musical – will be performed several times during a weekend in March. Third Quarter Progress Reports– will be distributed in March to all students Tryouts for Spring Sports– will take place the third week in March. There will be morning announcements about this along with updates on the school website 21 Annual Dodge Ball Tournament – will be held on a weeknight. Students are allowed to create their own teams to compete. Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ April Parents Association Monthly Meeting – Our meetings are held the 1st Wednesday of every month @ 7PM in the teacher’s lounge. Third Quarter report cards – will be distributed in April to all student Junior High National Honor Society Induction Ceremony – Each spring all qualified junior high students are inducted into the National Honor Society. At the end of the ceremony the students and their families attend an ice cream social hosted by the Parents Association in the cafeteria Senior High National Honor Society Induction Ceremony – Each spring all qualified high school students are inducted into the National Honor Society. At the end of the ceremony the students and their families will be invited to attend a dinner in the cafeteria. (note there is a cost associated with this dinner) Senior Retreat – This is a mandatory experience for all seniors. This retreat takes place off-site and features a special presenter. 2015/16 course Selection for 7 – 11 grade Parents Association Monthly Meeting – Our meetings are held the 1st Wednesday of every month @ 7PM in the teacher’s lounge. Teacher Appreciation Day - On a morning in May, the Parents Association prepares fruits, pastries and juices in appreciation of all the hard work the Holy Name faculty and staff does! Spring Concert – Concert Band and Chorus perform selections. Junior Prom –All juniors in good standing and their approved guests are invited to attend this event. Senior After Prom Party – This event is held after the senior prom from 11:00 p.m. until six o’clock the following morning. All attendees of the senior prom are invited to participate. Senior Prom – All seniors in good standing and their approved guests are invited to attend Theatre Class Shows – Students who take Theatre as a credit course perform shows informed by their studies. Fourth Quarter Progress Reports– will be distributed in May to all students AP Finals and Senior Exams – All AP finals and senior exams will be scheduled in May Junior High Math Meet – Information regarding the junior high math team which competes in this event will be available from math teachers May Sophomore Ring Ceremony - This is a mandatory event for all members of the sophomore class. This event consists of a Mass during which class rings and other items are blessed. The freshman class will host a reception afterwards. 22 Senior Awards Night – is held the week before graduation. Seniors are recognized for this achievement Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ May Cont’d Baccalaureate Ceremony – Graduating seniors participate in a Mass honoring them and their families and friends Graduation Assembly – is held in the gymnasium the morning of graduation. Family and friends are invited to join the faculty and students of Holy Name as graduates are awarded scholarships along with other special recognitions. Senior Graduation - Typically takes place the Thursday before Memorial Day weekend (subject to change) at the DCU center in Worcester Gently Used Uniforms – Parents Association will collect Senior gently used uniforms and if enough uniforms are donated will re-sale these uniforms during the summer. June Parents Association Monthly Meeting – Our meetings are held the 1st Wednesday of every month @ 7PM in the teacher’s lounge. Intermediate Band, Chorus and Jazz Ensemble Concert – will be performed by the junior high students and the jazz ensemble. Finals (Grades 7 – 11)–will follow the same format as the midterm schedule. 8th Grade Closing Ceremony – This ceremony takes place as part of a Mass honoring our eighth graders as they transition to the senior high school. Book Returns – Follett will hold this event at Holy Name. Final report cards – will be mailed after the last day of school. Did You Know That Our STEM Program – Holy Name closely collaborates with WPI on STEM projects and renewable energy programs. Our Mock Trial Team – The Holy Name Mock Trial team is the best in Central Massachusetts and consistently finishes as one of the top teams in the state. Our Dance Program - Dance is part of Holy Name’s curriculum and taught by instructors with over thirty years of experience. Our Student Athletics – In the last fourteen years, Holy Name has had more Massachusetts Gatorade Player of the Year Athletes than any other school in Central Massachusetts. Our College Prep – Holy Name offers a rigorous college preparatory program designed to empower each student to reach their academic potential. Our Theater Program – Holy Name Theater has produced performers who have acted on national and international stages. Our SAT Prep – Holy Name is proud to offer outstanding SAT preparation courses as part of the curriculum. Our Music Director – Dan Gabel is a nationally recognized musician and band leader. 23 Parents’ Guide _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Parents Association Information The Holy Name Parents’ Association membership is comprised of ALL Holy Name parents. The purpose of this association is to assist the Administration of Holy Name Central Catholic Junior/Senior High School and to welcome new parents to our Catholic community. This assistance will include spiritual, academic, cultural and social events, along with support and participation in several events that take place throughout the school year. Association meetings are held the first Wednesday of each month during the school year. Many of the current members of our Parents Associations have full time jobs and stay connected/get involved in helping us throughout the school year. There are many ways for you to get involved and stay informed Come to a Meeting – The Parents Association meets on the 1st Wednesday of each month @ 7PM in the teacher’s lounge. Join our Email Community – Unable to come to our meeting? Stay informed/connected by joining our Parents Association Email Community. Sign up at one of our Welcome receptions or send an email to hnparentassociation@holyname.net and we’ll sign you up! Volunteer At A Sponsored Event – Throughout the year we will ask for volunteers via email, newsletters or at one of our meetings. Donate Needed Items – Contribute by providing requested donations for our supported events throughout the year. Communication Tools Holy Name utilizes the following tools to keep our students/families informed: Facebook – www.facebook.com/holyname Twitter - @HNNaps School website – www.holyname.net. School announcements are updated daily and scrolled across the homepage. Traditional Email – monthly newsletters and other important announcement are sent to the email address provided at the beginning of the school year ConnectEd– important communications are recorded and calls home (or the number provided at the beginning of the school year) NAP NEWS - our electronic newsletter and announcements Monthly paper newsletter- which are mailed home. Additional communication methods Each teacher maintains their own website for class specific information. These websites are updated weekly by the teacher. These website are all linked to our school academics pages (www.holyname.net) On the main page tool bar under Academics click Academic pages Select and click the subject Click the teacher’s name Click the class and period 24