Parent/Student Newsletter
April 2023
He has risen …
“This is the day which the Lord hath made,
let us be glad and rejoice.”
Psalm 118:24
Peace & Greetings:
It’s hard to believe April and the onset of spring has arrived … we’ve entered the Fourth Marking Period … and we’re ushering in Holy Week and the beginning of our Easter vacation. It’s always fitting whenever Easter falls on a beautiful spring day when the renewal of the Earth and of God’s promise in the Resurrection coincide.
A shout out to the St. Paul Performing Arts program and the large cast and crew under the direction of Mr. Mazzarella and Mr. Simpson for their terrific presentation of “Oliver!” last weekend. Their quality performances continue to amaze everyone including the 1,350 guests that attended one of the shows.
I’m also incredible proud of the nearly 100 students and parents who participated in the annual Chris Corbett 5K Walk & Race in Waterbury last Sunday. The race was dedicated to the memory of Bristol Police Department officers: Lt. Dustin DeMonte and Sgt. Alex Hamzy. Proceeds from the race support Catholic school scholarships for deserving students.
CONGRATULATIONS to members of our senior class who have been accepted to over 80 colleges and universities across the country. If your child has been accepted to a college not on this list, please have them notify the school counseling office. A sampling of known acceptances includes:
Alfred University, Allegheny College, American Academy of Dramatic Arts, American Musical and Dramatic Academy, Assumption University, Baylor University, Bentley University, Binghamton University, Boston College, Bryant University, Catholic University of America, CCSU, Coastal Carolina University, College of Charleston, Cornell University, DeSales University, Duquesne University, ECSU, Emmanuel College, Endicott College, Fairfield University, Fordham University, Franklin Pierce University, George Mason University, Hofstra University, Iona University, James Madison University, Johnson & Wales University, Keene State College, Lafayette College, LeMoyne College, Long Island University, Marymount Manhattan College, Merrimack College, Middle Tennessee State University, Mississippi State University, Mount St. Mary College, Mount St. Mary’s University, Norfolk State University, Nova Southeastern University, Ohio State University, Pace University, Pennsylvania State University, Plymouth State University, Providence College, Purdue University, Quinnipiac University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Roger Williams University, Rutgers University, Sacred Heart University, Saint Anselm College, Saint Joseph’s University, Salve Regina University, Seton Hall University, Siena College, Smith College, SCSU, Southern New Hampshire University, St. Bonaventure University, Stonehill College, Texas Tech University, United States Merchant Marine Academy, University of Alabama, UCONN, University of Delaware, University of Hartford, University of Maine, UMASS, University of Mississippi, University of New Hampshire, University of New Haven, University of North Carolina, University of Rhode Island, University of Saint Joseph, Vassar College, Virginia Tech, Wells College, Western New England University, Wheaton College, William & Mary and Williams College.
Hopefully with the winter weather behind us, we can confirm the end of the 2022-2023 school calendar.
The Class of 2023 Baccalaureate Mass celebrated by Bishop Juan Miguel Betancourt, S.E.V.M. remains on Thursday, May 25, 2023 at St. Gregory the Great Church at 6:30 pm. The 54th Commencement Exercises is scheduled for Friday, May 26, 2023 at the Cathedral of St. Joseph, Hartford at 6:30 pm. Attendance for these events is unlimited. A detailed Class of 2023 Calendar of Events will be mailed to the seniors and their parents next week.
For all other classes, the end of the school year will officially be Monday, June 12, 2023. Final exams, with noon dismissal, are scheduled for June 7th, 8th, 9th, and 12th.
On another calendar note, Tuesday, April 25th will be a noon dismissal with buses available. Note that this is a change to the original calendar. We have a representative from the New England Association of Schools & Colleges (NEASC) meeting with faculty and staff in preparation for our 2024 re-accreditation visit. High schools go through a re-accreditation process every ten years.
Despite our spring vacation starting today, there is lots still to go on around here this April including:
Nearly 300 student-athletes participating on one of our spring athletic teams.
The Bristol Registrar of Voters will be at St. Paul on Tuesday, April 18th during lunch waves for voter registration for any interested, eligible upperclassmen.
Later that evening, the Performing Arts Banquet will be held at the Aqua Turf.
The IT/Computer Science Career Brown Bag Luncheon will be on Thursday, April 20th.
The NHS Craft Fair will be 10:00 am – 3:00 pm in the Dining Hall/Gymnasium on Saturday, April 22nd.
On Monday, April 24th we look forward to welcoming Mr. Steve Emt to St. Paul. From a UCONN basketball walk-on to Paralympian in wheelchair curling following a life-changing car accident, Steve is “known to empower audiences all over the world to become the hero of their own life.”
National Honor Society induction will be on Tuesday, April 25th at 7:00 pm.
Juniors will have the opportunity for college visits to Fairfield on Thursday, April 27th and UCONN on Friday, April 28th.
Later that evening, St. Paul will host our annual Falcon Fest for members of the incoming Class of 2027.
This is just a sampling. Thanks to everyone for making St. Paul such a vibrant community.
May our students enjoy their well-deserved spring vacation. And may the risen Lord continue to bless your family and our St. Paul community!
In the Spirit of St. Paul,
Cary M. Dupont ‘72
President/Chief Administrator
February 2023
“Remember that you are dust, and unto dust you shall return.”
(Genesis 3:19)
Peace and Greetings,
Along with over 6,000 schools across the country, we celebrated Catholic Schools last week with many special events and activities beginning Saturday, January 28 with Catholic Schools Night at the Hartford Wolfpack game and culminating in Student Appreciation Day and our Winter Fest weekend. A special shout-out to our parents who hosted a special Faculty/Staff Appreciation Breakfast & Luncheon on Wednesday, February 1. Your thoughtfulness was appreciated by all!
Speaking of celebrating, this week is National School Counseling Week. It gives me great pleasure to welcome Ms. Carmen Coard to our school counseling department. Ms. Coard received her Master of Science in School Counseling degree from Capella University. Ms. Coard comes to us “highly recommended with a tremendous work ethic, an empathetic nature, a heart of service, patience, creativity, and a genuine, positive nature.” We thank Mrs. Nancy Priemer in our school counseling office for her commitment to our school community and the students she serves. As you know, Mrs. Elaine Mancini recently accepted a position at the Child & Health Development Institute, Farmington. We wish her our best in her new venture.
Congratulations to our seniors who have been receiving college acceptance letters the last month or so. Well deserved … we’re very proud of each of you! Also, my best wishes to our student athletes as our winter season is winding down and tournament time will be coming upon us soon. It’s always an exciting time of year!
Registration for the incoming Class of 2027 began last week with many new families and current siblings looking to become Falcons! Returning students have received their 2023-2024 Curriculum Guide. Please take time to discuss your child’s course schedule with them for next year. Re-registration forms for all returning students with a parent/guardian signature and registration deposit are due by grade to the Guidance Office within the next few weeks.
A reminder that there is no school this Monday, February 13 due to exceeding our student/faculty fundraising goal of $35,000 for the Oktoberfest/Walkathon last fall. Historically, the students have selected the day after the Super Bowl for their day off. We follow the Bristol Board of Education Winter Vacation schedule, thus there will be no school on Monday, February 20 (Presidents’ Day) and Tuesday, February 21. The main office will be open from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm on all these days.
Our Lenten journey begins on Ash Wednesday, February 22. You’re invited to join us at our school-wide Mass and distribution of ashes at St. Gregory the Great Church at 10:15 am.
I wish to sincerely express my gratitude to our students and their parents/guardians; our faculty, staff and coaches; our alumni and friends who all call St. Paul Catholic High School home. There is something very special about this place … it is our unique sense of community built upon a foundation of faith. We are many parts … but one body!
In the Spirit of St. Paul,
Cary M. Dupont ‘72
President/Chief Administrator
January 2023
Wishing you a New Year filled with new hope, new joy, and new beginnings.
Peace and Greetings,
Happy New Year! Endings prompt different reflections in each of us. Today’s ending is tomorrow’s new beginning. What will 2023 bring?
It’s hard to believe that the end of the first semester is rapidly approaching. Midterm exams begin this Thursday, January 12th and are scheduled through next Wednesday, January 18th. There will be a noon dismissal during exams with buses available. Students will be allowed to arrive late or leave early depending on their exam schedule. However, a signed parent permission slip is necessary and must be submitted no later than Wednesday, January 11th. A copy of the parent permission slip is enclosed herein.
In addition, students will be allowed to wear casual dress during exams. Interested students should make a $10 donation in homeroom by Wednesday, January 11th in support of Catholic Relief Services/Catholic Charities.
There is no school on Monday, January 16th in observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Dr. King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 for his firm belief in racial equality, civil rights and justice for all. King’s influential writings are relevant to this day.
I’m pleased to share that the Most Reverend Leonard P. Blair, Archbishop of Hartford, will celebrate Mass with the St. Paul community next Thursday, January 19th at St. Gregory the Great Church at 10:15 am. All are invited. We look forward to welcoming Archbishop Blair to St. Paul and are grateful for the spiritual and financial support provided by the Archdiocese.
We will kick-off Catholic Schools Week (CSW) Sunday, January 29 – Saturday, February 4, 2023 with Catholic Schools Night at the Hartford Wolfpack game on Saturday, January 29th at 7:00 pm. See information enclosed to purchase tickets to a reserved section at the Hartford Civic Center. The Bristol Catholic schools were selected to hold the American flag on the ice during the National Anthem. Details for the selection of twenty students from St. Paul will be forthcoming.
Faculty Staff Appreciation Day is scheduled for Wednesday, February 1st and Student Appreciation Day is Friday, February 3rd. There will be many special activities planned for that week including our annual Winter Carnival, Thursday, February 2nd through Saturday, February 4th. Along with St. Joseph School, Bristol and St. Matthew School, Forestville, we will conduct two service projects during CSW to support St. Vincent DePaul homeless shelter and Brian’s Angels, a homeless outreach organization.
Our school community is truly blessed by the generosity of all the people who call St. Paul home. My sincere thanks are extended to everyone who contributes, in countless ways, to the greatness of this institution.
Best wishes to our students on their exams! May God grant our St. Paul community peace, joy and continued success in 2023!
In the Spirit of St. Paul,
Cary M. Dupont ‘72
President/Chief Administrator
December 2022
“For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given.”
~ Isaiah 9:6-7
Peace and Greetings:
As Christians, December marks the time we begin preparing for the birth of the Christ child in our lives. We ushered in the season of Advent last Friday night at our annual Light Up St. Paul event. Many thanks to everyone who planned and attended the evening. The participation was one of our best in years!
I invite you to still find time to celebrate this holiday season with your St. Paul family.
Art Show & Christmas Concert (Thursday, December 15th at 6:30 pm)
Christmas Mass at St. Gregory the Great Church (Thursday, December 22nd at 11:15 am)
Note that this is a change to our original school calendar. Friday, December 16th will be a noon dismissal. Busses will be available. Our faculty will be involved in a special advent faith formation/retreat in the afternoon.
This is a reminder that our Christmas vacation begins on Thursday, December 22nd at 2:12 pm. Classes will resume on Tuesday, January 3, 2023.
Juniors and their parents are strongly encouraged to attend Junior College Night sponsored by the School Counseling Office this Wednesday, December 7th at 6:00 pm in the auditorium. Several college representatives will be here to share their perspective and answer questions regarding the college process.
Our second Placement Exam for the 2023-2024 school year is scheduled for this Saturday, December 10th at 8:00 am. It’s not too late for prospective students to register by contacting Ms. Mone: cmone@spchs.com. Thank you for serving as ambassadors for St. Paul in your town and workplace. Nothing is more reassuring for prospective families than to hear directly from current St. Paul students and parents.
A shout out to everyone who contributed to the United Way Toy Drive last week. Not surprisingly, we collected hundreds of toys for local organizations to distribute on our behalf as well as supporting Bristol First Responders. The generosity of our students/families inspires me all the time!
St. Paul is blessed as a faith community to live the gift of Christmas every day. He is the reason we exist. On behalf of all of us at St. Paul, I wish you and your family much joy, happiness and peace during this season and throughout the new year. Merry Christmas!
In the Spirit of St. Paul,
Cary M. Dupont ‘72
President/Chief Administrator
November 7, 2022
“Do not forget that holiness consists not in extraordinary actions, but in performing your duties towards God, yourself, and others well.”
~ Saint Maximilian Kolbe
Peace & Greetings:
Time is waiting for no one this fall as unbelievably the calendar has turned to November and with that the start of the second marking period. This month is traditionally a time to reflect upon and be grateful for our God given blessings!
Here’s one of mine! I’d like to acknowledge the genuine response of our St. Paul community in support of the Bristol Police Hero’s Fund following the recent horrific events that stunned this city and took the lives of Lieutenant DeMonte and Sargent Hamzy and injured Officer Iurato. You made me proud and blessed to be part of this caring school community by your overwhelming generosity. Please keep these families and the BPD in your thoughts and prayers this upcoming holiday season.
Join me in welcoming Mrs. Joyce Chmura to St. Paul as our new Main Office Receptionist/Secretary. Joyce worked for 30 years in the office of St. Jerome Church (St. Katharine Drexel Parish), New Britain. She looks forward to meeting/serving our St. Paul families when you arrive in-person or call by phone.
Tomorrow, St. Luke’s Productions will be performing Saint Maximilian Kolbe to our students/faculty in our continuing efforts to promote/reflect upon this year’s school theme of #charactercounts. The Polish Franciscan priest offered himself in place of another man who was sentenced to death in Auschwitz during WWII and later canonized for his martyrdom.
On Wednesday evening, November 9th St. Paul students Rose Wells ’24 and Brian Wilson ’23 will be recognized by the Archdiocese of Hartford at their annual Respect for Life Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Bloomfield at 5:00 pm. Congratulations Brian and Rose for your leadership with the SP Respect Life Club. All are welcome to attend!
Our Circle of Honor returns this Thursday, November 10th at 6:30 pm with a casual Donor Reception in the school lobby/auditorium. We’re thrilled to recognize this year’s honorees, Pierre & MaryEllen Guertin and Don & Ellen Ciampi, both past parents, for their generous commitment to St. Paul. Parents/guardians are welcome to join us for refreshments and entertainment. RSVP to Shelley Mendoza: smendoza@spchs.com.
A reminder that there will be no school this Friday, November 11th in observance of Veteran’s Day … a day we honor all those who have served in the armed forces answering our country’s call to duty to defend our Nation and way of life. We are grateful to them and their families for their bravery and unselfish sacrifice.
It’s an exciting week for many of our student-athletes as they begin CIAC state tournament action. We’ve had a successful fall season and wish them all our best in tournament competition. Go Falcons!
After postponing for a few years due to COVID-19 restrictions, we’re looking forward to resuming our annual Grandparents’ Day on Tuesday, November 15th. See the attached link in this newsletter for the invite and more information on the logistics of this event. We are grateful to our St. Paul grandparents for the instrumental role they play in the lives of our students and families.
The cast and crew of the St. Paul Performing Arts, under the direction of Mr. Mazzarella, will be performing, “Clue On Stage” November 18-20, 2022. They will also perform during the morning on Thursday, November 17th to students from our Catholic elementary schools. Tickets are now on sale to this comedy mystery that will keep you guessing. If you like the game, you’ll love the show, don’t miss it!
Tuesday, November 22nd St. Paul we will celebrate our annual Thanksgiving Candlelight Luncheon during all lunch waves. Stella will prepare a special holiday turkey meal with all the fixings for $5.00. Our celebration will continue with our annual Thanksgiving Mass on Wednesday, November 23rd at 11:00 am at St. Gregory the Great Church. Family members are welcome to join us. This is a great opportunity to come together and give thanks to God for the gift of our school community before Thanksgiving recess begins at noon. Classes resume on Monday, November 28th.
I’d like to acknowledge Ms. Chelsea Mone and Mrs. Lindquist, our admissions/communication team, faculty/staff, Blue Key Club student ambassadors and parent ambassadors for their efforts and participation with our Open Houses and Placement Exams this fall. A reminder that our next Open House for prospective students is scheduled for Saturday, November 19th at 10:00 am and Placement Exam on Saturday, December 10th at 8:00 am. It takes a village to get the word out, THANKS!
As always, lots going on inside and outside the classrooms!
I pause as this Thanksgiving approaches to reflect upon and thank our faculty, staff and coaches for their commitment to our students. I am truly grateful for their partnership. And I’m so thankful to our students and families who share their personal gifts and inspire us every day. Thank you all for calling St. Paul home!
Wishing you a Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving!
In the Spirit of St. Paul,
Cary M. Dupont ‘72
President/Chief Administrator
October 3, 2022
“Primary greatness is on the inside.
It’s about character.”
Stephen Covey
Peace & Greetings:
As the calendar turns to October and the weather begins to cool, autumn has arrived! Overall, September was a good start to the new school year. Students are getting back into their normal routines and those transitioning to St. Paul seem to be feeling at home.
It was enjoyable to see many parents at the Back to School Night. A friendly reminder that Parent/Teacher Conferences are scheduled for Wednesday, October 12 from 1:00 – 7:00 pm. Soon you will be receiving more information to personally schedule electronically ten-minute conference appointments. Given the limited spaces, we especially suggest scheduling a time to visit those teachers/classes that your child is finding difficult. Administration and school counselors will also be available.
This week marks the midpoint of the first marking period and an appropriate time to reflect where one is in the classroom. Mr. Cooper will be addressing students at Monday Morning Assembly encouraging them to stay current with their academic studies and to reach out to teachers or school counselors for extra help, if needed. The best way to be in good academic standing is not to fall behind. Incomplete homework and other assignments contribute to poor grades and unnecessary anxiety. We can do this … let’s leave no one behind!
Keeping with our #charactercounts school-wide theme, we were grateful and impressed with the presentations provided by Deacon Arthur Miller (personal character talk) and Scott Driscoll (internet safety). We are pleased to be welcoming Mike McCoy to St. Paul on October 18 to speak with our Freshman and Sophomore classes. He is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and played eleven years in the NFL. He speaks primarily to Catholic schools across America on the importance of good decision-making, fighting drug use and empowering youth.
October brings many activities to our campus besides a full slate of interscholastic athletic events. Thursday kicks off our Homecoming Holiday Weekend with our annual hallway decorating contest. There is a Girls’ Soccer game vs. Torrington High School under the lights at McPhee Field at 6:00 pm and a Girls’ Volleyball game vs. Ansonia High School in the Rev. Brian Monnerat Gymnasium at 6:00 pm. Friday’s pep rally will be followed by our Walkathon/ Oktoberfest and evening semi-formal dance. The weekend concludes on Saturday with pre-game festivities (i.e. food trucks, music, games, etc.) at 11:30 am followed by the Boys’ Football game vs. Kennedy High School at 1:00 pm.
Other October highlights include: Monday, October 3 at 6:00 pm – Zoom Parent College Tuition Assistance Workshop; Wednesday, October 5 at 10:45 am – Living Rosary on McPhee Field; Thursday, October 13 at 3:30 pm – City Cross Country Championship at St. Paul; Friday, October 14 at 6:00 pm – Class of 2027 Fall Festival; Saturday, October 22 at 10:00 am – Open House, Wednesday, October 26 – Junior Girls Retreat at Lourdes in Litchfield and Thursday, October 27 – Junior Boys Retreat at Lourdes in Litchfield.
A reminder that there is no school on Monday, October 10 – Columbus Day and Friday, October 21 – Faculty Professional Development Day. Wednesday, October 12 will be a noon dismissal following the PSAT testing for the Sophomore and Junior classes and Freshman class in-house retreat. As mentioned, Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held that afternoon.
Our ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) active intruder drill and Voice Reach emergency response automated system ran smoothly last week. A reminder, if you did not receive a robo phone call pertaining to the drill, please contact the main office so we can get your emergency contact information updated, thanks.
Finally, after serving St. Paul for fifteen years, we said good-bye on Friday to Sue Fazzuoli, main office receptionist/secretary who left to work closer to home. Sue’s genuinely friendly, outgoing personality and institutional knowledge will be missed. We thank and wish her all the best. We will announce her replacement shortly. We ask for your patience and understanding during the interim and training period, thanks.
Let’s make October a great month! Greatness defined as an intentional incremental process of getting better day by day, month by month. #charactercounts
St. Paul, pray for us!
Cary M. Dupont ‘72
President/Chief Administrator
September 13, 2022
“We choose what attitudes we have right now. And it’s a continuing choice.”
John C. Maxwell
Peace & Greetings:
It’s been inspiring to have our students and faculty back on campus as we begin the 2022-2022 academic year. I’m pleased to report that our student body consists of 403 students including 112 incoming freshmen and 13 transfer students. Welcome Home!
Congratulations to Mrs. Silva on the birth of her son, Cristiano, over the Labor Day weekend! I’m please to share that Mrs. Greger will teach Mrs. Silva’s English classes until her return. Mrs. Greger taught at St. Paul before her retirement in June 2020 and we’re fortunate to be able to welcome her back.
We are definitely off and running with academic classes underway, interscholastic athletic contests started, auditions completed for the fall play and the club fair scheduled for next week. We held our first pep rally and Welcome Home dance under the tents/courtyard last Friday. Next Thursday, our Senior Class will be on retreat at Holy Family Retreat and Conference Center, West Hartford. While there are the typical hiccups with the start of a next year, overall we’ve been pleased with the energy and attitude of our student body.
#charactercounts
As you know, this year’s school theme focuses on one of our five core values – character. The choices we make matters … ultimately defining who we are! This Friday, we’re pleased to welcome Deacon Arthur Miller to St. Paul. Deacon in the Archdiocese of Hartford, author, radio host, retired businessman, Deacon Miller is nationally known and a powerful speaker who will share his life’s examples and perspective in defining one’s character. “If God were to give us an 11th commandment,” Deacon Miller proposes, “I believe it would read: Thou shall not be a bystander.” Following Deacon Miller’s presentation, students will discuss our summer reading book, “The Red Bandanna” in their house advisories and reflect on character as a personal core value.
Parent Back to School Night
A reminder that parents/guardians will be welcomed Back to School next Wednesday night, September 21st. There will be an Athletic Presentation for all new parents/guardians in the Auditorium at 5:30 pm followed by an Academic Program at 6:15 pm whereby you will follow your child’s schedule for the evening and briefly meet with their teachers. We encourage every family to be represented.
COVID-19 Update
The health and well-being of students, faculty, staff and visitors on our campus is of primary importance. With the start of school, it’s inevitable that our school community has experienced some positive cases of COVID-19. Recent guidance from the Bristol-Burlington Health District (BBHD) may be helpful in making personal decisions contributing to everyone’s good health:
- If you test POSITIVE for COVID-19, regardless of vaccination status or symptoms isolate at home for at least five full days. Day 1 is the day after the onset of symptoms or a positive test, whichever comes first. You can return to school on Day 6 although if still testing positive or experiencing mild symptoms you are required to wear a mask indoors until Day 10.
- If you have mild symptoms, regardless of vaccination status with NO fever (> 100 F) and with NO household member or close contact with COVID-19, it is recommended that you test every day you are symptomatic. If you test negative, you can attend school although are encouraged to wear a mask.
- If you have mild symptoms, regardless of vaccination status and had a close contact or live with someone COVID-19 positive, stay home until symptoms resolve. If you have a fever, you must be fever free for 24 hours (without use of fever reducing medication) before returning to school. Again, we recommend testing every day while symptomatic.
- If you had a close contact or live with someone COVID-19 positive, regardless of vaccination status, with NO symptoms, you may attend school as long as not symptomatic. We recommend you separate from the positive person, test every day and wear a mask in school through five days after exposure.
COVID-19 testing kits are available for FREE in the health room. Any COVID-19 concerns or questions should be directed to Ann Marie Pahl, school health aide: apahl@spchs.com or my attention cdupont@spchs.com.
School Safety
The physical safety of our students, faculty and staff is of utmost importance. Our ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) training and practices were reviewed during faculty orientation before school started and will be reviewed with the students at next week’s Monday Morning Assembly. We are going to test our Voice Reach emergency response automated system next Friday morning, September 24th in conjunction with our planned active intruder drill. This is only a drill. You will receive a robo phone call from St. Paul that you can activate by answering “hello.” Please send in your SPCHS Information Form, if you haven’t already done so earlier this summer otherwise you will not be notified.
I think that’s it for now. It is our differences – personalities, interests, skills, passion – that contribute to our greatness as a school community. But it is our commonality – the choice that we make to call St. Paul home – that defines our strength. It is in coming together by respecting and nurturing each other that we become one unified body. Let’s contribute to and celebrate our moments of greatness, understanding that it doesn’t come without intentional effort –#charactercounts.
St. Paul, pray for us!
Cary M. Dupont ‘72
President/Chief Administrator
Parent/Student Newsletter – September 13, 2022
August 16, 2022
God of wisdom and might,
We praise you for the wonder of our being
for mind, body and spirit.
Be with our students as they begin a new school year.
Bless them and their teachers.
Give them strength and grace as their bodies grow;
Wisdom and knowledge to the mind as they search for understanding;
And peace and zeal to their hearts.
We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
(Whitney Hetzel)
Peace and Greetings,
The summer is flying by and we’re suddenly in mid-August just weeks away from ushering in the annual ritual of a new school year. This week the campus is coming alive as we welcome many incoming freshmen to our annual Summer Academic Academy. Classrooms are awaiting their scholars, fall athletic teams are preparing to practice and drama rehearsals are just around the corner. Momentum is building! Currently, there are 113 students registered in the Class of 2026 and twelve new transfer students. Total student enrollment remains steady exceeding 400+. We’re eager to welcome you all home!
I’m writing to share some last-minute planning information as well as remind you of a few responsibilities:
School Theme – #charactercounts
This year’s school theme focuses on one of our five core values – character. We are all faced with so many choices in our lives. Understanding that the choices we make matters … ultimately defining who we are. “Your true character is revealed by the clarity of your convictions, the choices you make, and the promises you keep. Hold strong to your principles and refuse to follow the currents of convenience. What you say and do defines who you are, and who you are … you are forever.”
Students are reminded their summer reading entails the school-wide book, The Red Bandana, A life, A Choice, A legacy (adult version) by Tom Rinaldi. Please read the book, if you haven’t already, and reflect on the value of character in your life. Much more on this when you return.
Also, please remember to check the St. Paul website to make sure you’ve completed any other assigned work for the start of the new school year.
New Student Drop-in Day
A new Student Drop-in is scheduled for Friday, August 26th from 9:00 am – noon. This informal event is an opportunity to meet student government classmates, follow your daily schedule and get any last-minute questions answered. Stop by any time that morning and stay as long as you like.
2022-2023 Opening Day Schedule
Class of 2026 and Transfer Students Orientation
Thursday, September 1, from 7:45 am – 2:12 pm
Assemble in the Auditorium (Day 1 Schedule)
A special orientation day is planned. Buses will be operating and the Dining Hall food service will provide lunch.
New Students Convocation
Thursday, September 1 at 7:00 pm in the Auditorium
(Students should assemble in dress attire in the Dining Hall at 6:30 pm.)
All Freshmen, transfer students and their families are invited to attend as new students are formally inducted into the St. Paul community.
All Students Orientation
Friday, September 2 from 7:45 am – 2:12 pm dismissal
Assemble in the Auditorium (Day 1 Schedule)
Art Rich Photography will be at St. Paul on this day to take pictures for student ID cards. See the enclosed flyer if you are interested in purchasing a photo package.
New Faculty/Staff Announced
Rev. Joshua Wilbur has been appointed by Archbishop Blair to be the new chaplain at St. Paul Catholic High School. Fr. Josh is currently assigned as the parochial vicar at St. Patrick’s Church, Farmington and St. Mary Star of the Sea, Unionville. Prior to his ordination to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Hartford in 2018, he served as the music teacher at St. Thomas the Apostle School, West Hartford from 2007-2012. Fr. Josh received his Bachelor of Music from Hartt School, University of Hartford, Bachelor of Philosophy, Bachelor of Sacred Theology and Master of Divinity from St. John’s Seminary, Boston.
Ms. Claire Consonni ‘10 has been hired to teach full-time in our English department. She recently earned her Intermediate Administration Certificate from Sacred Heart University and received her Master of Arts degree and Bachelor of Arts from the University of St. Joseph. Previously, Ms. Consonni has been involved with the St. Paul girls’ basketball and girls’ soccer teams.
Health Room Emergency Information Card & SPCHS Information Form
If you haven’t already sent your forms into the Main Office or Health Room (originally distributed in the July parent mailing and enclosed herein), please send them in ASAP. It is imperative that this information be updated annually and returned to the Main Office no later than the first day of school. Students will not be allowed to attend school after September 9th, if the information is not on file.
This is a reminder that according to Connecticut state law, as a requirement for entrance into Grade 11, students are required to have a physical examination in Grade 9 or 10. In addition, a student who is attending a school in the State of Connecticut for the first time (regardless of the grade) is required to have a health assessment/physical examination. Students who wish to participate in sports must have a sports physical done yearly and it is valid for 13 months. Reference is made to the Bristol-Burlington Health District website: www.bbhd.org for more information. In addition to the annual physical, Connecticut General Statutes require a signed Concussion Education Consent Form and Student Cardiac Arrest Education Consent Form to be completed per season for student-athletes (see website).
St. Paul requires a baseline concussion test for all new students and updated test for all students entering their junior year. The next testing sessions are being held next Monday, August 22nd, Tuesday, August 23rd and Wednesday, August 24th at 9:00 am or 11:00 am in the CAD lab. If you have any questions contact Mr. Dennehy, ddennehy@spchs.com.
2022-2023 In-Person Only Learning Schedule
“In person learning and socialization are the best ways for students to thrive and be successful.” (CSDE) The Archdiocese of Hartford and St. Paul will return to an in-person only academic schedule. Remote learning will NOT be an option this year. Similar to pre-COVID, students absent for any reason are required to contact their teacher and school counselor to make-up missed work in a timely manner.
| Regular Schedule | ||
| Homeroom | 7:45-7:51 | |
| Period 1 | 7:55-8:35 | |
| Period 2 | 8:39-9:19 | |
| Period 3 | 9:23-10:03 | |
| Period 4 | 10:07-10:47 | |
| Period 5 | 10:51-11:31 | |
| Period 6 | 11:35-12:41 | |
| Period 7 | 12:45-1:25 | |
| Period 8 | 1:29-2:09 | |
| Prayer & Dismissal | 2:09-2:12 | |
| (Lunch #1) 11:35-11:55 | ||
| Lunch | (Lunch #2) 11:58-12:18 | |
| (Lunch #3) 12:21-12:41 | ||
| Day One | Day Two | Day Three | Day Four | Day Five | Day Six |
| Homeroom | Homeroom | Homeroom | Homeroom | Homeroom | Homeroom |
| A | D | E | F | G | H |
| B | B | B | B | B | B |
| C | C | C | C | C | C |
| D | E | F | G | H | A |
| E | F | G | H | A | D |
| F | G | H | A | D | E |
| G | H | A | D | E | F |
| H | A | D | E | F | G |
Doors open at 6:45 am with breakfast available in the Dining Hall beginning at 7:00 am on normal school days. The library hours are 7:15 am – 3:00 pm Monday through Thursday and 2:30 pm on Friday. Faculty monitored study hall is provided in the Dining Hall after school until 4:00 pm daily.
COVID-19 Update
St. Paul will follow guidance from the Archdiocesan Center for Catholic Education & Formation, consistent with recent communication from the CDC, CSDH and CSDE, providing solely an in-person instructional model. Students or staff should not attend school if they are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, until tested, especially if feeling feverish (>100 F). An infected student or staff member must remain in isolation for (5) days. Day 1 is the day after the onset of symptoms or a positive test, which-ever comes first. They can return to school on Day 6 although if still testing positive or experiencing mild symptoms are required to wear a mask, when indoors, until Day 10. COVID-19 testing kits for students and staff are available for FREE in the Health Room.
Consistent with last spring, masks are optional and left to the discretion of each student/family. I ask that we respect each student’s personal decision that’s made in their family’s best interest/circumstances.
It should be emphasized that the health and well-being of students, faculty, staff and visitors while on our campus is of primary importance. Any COVID-19 concerns or questions should be directed to my attention: cdupont@spchs.com or to Ann Marie Pahl, school health aide: apahl@spchs.com.
School Security
The safety of our students, faculty and staff is paramount. St. Paul faculty/staff have been trained by the Bristol Police Department in ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) active shooter response preparedness. Our training and practices are reviewed annually at the beginning of each new school year. Student drills will be conducted each semester this year. Parents will be notified, in advance, testing our Voice Reach emergency response automated telephone system. Indoor security cameras are being installed this fall to augment our outdoor perimeter cameras.
Student Handbook Agreement
Parents and students are expected to read the updated Student Handbook available online: www.spchs.com beginning September 1st before printing, signing and returning a copy of the Student Handbook Agreement 2022-2023 form to the student’s homeroom teacher or the Main Office by September 9th.
Uniforms
Mr. Wallace: awallace@spchs.com and Mrs. Kendrick: nkendrick@spchs.com previously sent out correspondence regarding changes to the school uniform. Students should fully comply with the revised dress code and grooming codes, representing themselves and St. Paul in a proper manner. Everyone was encouraged to order early from Dennis Uniform or Land’s End. To insure compliance, uniform purchases should be made through the links on the SP website (spchs.com/student-life/uniforms/). These changes have been well received and all students are expected to be in full uniform on the first day of school.
Textbooks
Reference is made to the July mailing and the respective student course schedule. Books should be purchased using our website: (spchs.com/academics/textbooks) utilizing the corresponding course number. Any questions, please contact Mr. Cooper, Dean of Academic Life: jcooper@spchs.com.
Lockers
We will return to assigning two lockers per student. Students are reminded to keep their lockers clean and not leave any food or drinks in them at the end of the day.
Food Service
Paul Gregory’s will be operating our food service again this year. Stella Guzda will be returning to offer a full breakfast and lunch menu. Families interested in opening a prepaid account (any amount) should make check payable to Paul Gregory’s.
Busing
The out-of-town bus schedule will be finalized in the next few days. Bristol and out-of- town students should address any busing questions to Elizabeth Gunn: egunn@spchs.com. We thank you for your patience and appreciate your understanding knowing that St. Paul and First Student bus company are doing our very best in this constantly evolving and complicated process.
Parking Fee
It’s a privilege for students to park at St. Paul. For the safety of all, students who violate driving privileges as outlined in the Student Handbook will forfeit their driving privileges. All student vehicles must be registered with Mr. Wallace, Dean of Student Life, and all cars must display a numbered sticker A parking registration fee of $50.00 for one semester or $75.00 per year is required.
Student Medication Drop Off
Our new school nurse, Erin Hamilton, from the Bristol-Burlington Health District (BBHD) will be stationed under the front portico area on Thursday, September 1 and Friday, September 2 from 7:15 am – 7:45 am for any parent who needs to discuss/drop off student medication. Students cannot bring medication directly to the Health Room. Any questions, do not hesitate to contact Mrs. Hamilton: erinhamilton@bristolct.gov or our health aide, Ann Marie Pahl: apahl@spchs.com.
Main Office Hours
During normal business days, the main office is open from 7:00 am – 3:00 pm. Our receptionist, Mrs. Sue Fazzuoli, will assist you or transfer you to the appropriate person. Student absences should be directed to her at 860-584-0911 or sfazzuoli@spchs.com.
Feels like there’s so much more but that’s it for now. We will continue to do our best to keep you informed. In the meantime, don’t hesitate to contact any of us here at St. Paul if you have any questions or concerns.
There’s much expected excitement and maybe some nervous anticipation as we begin a new school year. No doubt though, we are all in this together. I ask for your continued prayers for all of us who call St. Paul home!
Yours in St. Paul,
Cary M. Dupont ‘72
President/Chief Administrator
