Sunday Evening News 2.14.2021
February 14, 2021
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY
FUN FACTS
According to Hallmark, Americans exchange a whopping 145 million Valentine’s Day cards each year making it the second biggest holiday for exchanging greeting cards, after Christmas.
Necco will manufacture over 8 billion conversation hearts … “True Love,” “Hug Me,” “You Rock” and 40 other sayings, starting in the next few days to have enough for next year.
Peace & Greetings,
Lent 2021
“Remember you are dust and to dust you shall return”
This Wednesday, February 17 is Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent 2021. The season of Lent is set aside by the Church for us to reorient ourselves, to gain the proper perspective on things, and put our priorities in order. Each year, at the start of Lent, we go back to the beginning so that we might go forward to redemption. During Lent, the Gospel calls us to conversion, fasting, prayer and almsgiving. Over the next six weeks, our St. Paul Lenten journey will provide us the opportunity to practice the Gospel call in our own lives, inviting us to purify our hearts and seek the love of God above all else in becoming the best version of ourselves. May our 2021 Lenten journey intentionally impact our spiritual lives.
EVENING REFLECTION & PRAYER
A leper came to him (and kneeling down) begged him and said, “If you wish, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand, touched him, and said to him, “I do will it. Be made clean.” The leprosy left him immediately, and he was made clean (Mark 1:40-42). This week we begin the holy season of Lent. Turning away from sin and being faithful to the Gospel requires us to be transformed with our hearts. I pray that as we take up increased prayer, fasting, and almsgiving this Lent we may reflect Jesus even stronger to the world and be transformed by his love.
Let us pray, O God, who teaches us that you abide in hearts that are just and true, grant that we may be so fashioned by your grace as to become a dwelling pleasing to you. Through our Lord, Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Fr. Glen, Chaplain
SCHOOL CALENDAR
Week of February, 15 – 19, 2021
Monday and Tuesday, No School – Winter Vacation, Wednesday (Day 2), Thursday (Day 3) and Friday (Day 1).
NOTE: The school website calendar had a glitch over the weekend that is being resolved. There IS school on Wednesday, February 17.
REMOTE LEARNING – IMPORTANT STUDENT HANDBOOK REMINDERS
This might be an appropriate time to remind students electing to attend school remotely during COVID-19 that they are required to conform to all expectations for proper student behavior as set forth in the 2020-2021 St. Paul Student Handbook. We are strongly encouraging more consistent compliance and cooperation.
- Students must have their video feed on at all times in Zoom and their face must be completely visible on camera unless they have sought and received permission from their teacher to leave the screen.
- Students may choose to leave their Zoom audio on mute, but must unmute themselves to answer a teacher’s question, respond to a comment in class or ask a question.
- Students are expected to be in St. Paul uniform during all Zoom sessions. Students are encouraged to find a quiet setting in their home to attend class.
- Regular attendance is a necessity for achievement in school. Excessive absence, indicating a lack of interest and application, is a hindrance to the learning process and will not be tolerated. For the purposes of official school attendance, each time a remote learner is absent from school, a parent must notify the Main Office between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. to explain the nature of the student’s absence.
- To be recorded as present for a school day, a remote learner must arrive on time to the Zoom session for their homeroom/A period as well as attend at a minimum an additional two full academic class sessions. Attendance in each Zoom class will be taken, and a student who misses more than 15 remote learning classes, will be in danger of not receiving credit for that course.
A reminder that in-person learners are required to take all assessments in-person and not over Zoom. If absent on the day of an assessment, students should be prepared to take their quiz/test on the day they return to school.
WEEKDAY MASS
This week Mass will be held on Ash Wednesday, February 17 at 7:15 am in the St. Paul Chapel (limited seating) for the special intentions of our St. Paul community.
LENT 2021 for Students, Faculty and Staff
On Ash Wednesday, ashes will be voluntarily distributed (COVID sensitive) from 9:45 – 10:30 am (G Period/Class Passing) in the Chapel.
- Mondays: Confessions in the Chapel from 1:00 – 2:00 pm
- Tuesdays: Bible Study based on the discipleship program from Franciscan University in Stubenville with Fr. Glen in Campus Ministry from 2:20 – 2:45 pm
- Wednesdays: Weekly Mass at 7:15 am
- Fridays: Divine Mercy Chaplet in the Chapel at 7:30 am
First Friday of the Month: Eucharistic Adoration at St. Gregory the Great Church. February Adoration is scheduled for Friday, February 19.
Stations of the Cross: TBA
Baby Bottle Boomerang fundraiser for Carolyn’s Place: bottles will be voluntarily distributed to students in religion classes. Faculty/staff should see Sr. Marie Benedict if you wish to participate in collecting loose change during Lent.
Mission Club will continue to offer monthly almsgiving opportunities for our St. Paul community during Lent.
2021 – 2022 RE-REGISTRATION
A reminder that re-registration forms for the Class of 2023 are due in the Guidance Office by this Friday, February 19, 2021. Please see your school counselor if you have any course scheduling questions. Class of 2022 forms were due last Friday, February 12. Please turn the forms in ASAP, if you haven’t already.
GUIDANCE NEWS
We’re very excited to announce upcoming sessions of the Perry Virtual Experience in March 2021. The Perry Virtual Experience is a free, 2.5-hour, interactive online experience for high school and college-aged women who are interested in pursuing careers in orthopedic surgery and engineering. Participants will hear from women leaders in these fields and dive into online orthopedic simulations and biomechanics experiments. Additional information can be found on our website: https://perryinitiative.org/pve/
CONGRATULATIONS to the following Seniors on their recent college acceptances: Emma Zenobi Sienna College
Seniors are reminded to notify their school counselor if they want their college acceptances to be acknowledged.
ATHLETICS – SP GYM SCHEDULE
Week of February 15
Monday: JV/V Girls BB 10:00 am – Noon; Fr. Girls BB 12:15 – 2:00 pm; Indoor Track 4:15 – 5:45 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Tuesday: JV/V Girls BB 10:00 am – Noon; Fr. Girls BB 12:15 – 2:15 pm; Fr. Boys BB 3:45 – 5:45 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Wednesday: Girls Home Basketball Games vs Seymour – JV @ 4:00 pm & Varsity @ 5:30 pm Thursday: Fr. Boys BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Cheer & Wrestling 3:45 – 4:45 pm; JV/V Girls BB 5:00 –
6:30 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:45 – 8:15 pm
Friday: Fr. Boys & Girls BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Boys Home Basketball Games vs Naugatuck – JV @ 4:30 pm & Varsity @ 6:15 pm
Saturday: Indoor Track 8:00 – 9:30 am Sunday: BB – TBA
Week of February 22
Monday: Wrestling 2:30 – 3:45 pm; Fr. Girls BB 4:00 – 5:00 pm; Girls Home Basketball Game vs Watertown – Varsity @ 6:00 pm
Tuesday: Fr. Boys BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Cheer & Wrestling 3:45 – 4:45 pm; JV/V Girls BB 5:00 – 6:30 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:45 – 8:15 pm
Wednesday: Fr. Girls BB 2:30 – 4:00 pm; Girls Home Basketball Games vs Torrington –
JV @ 4:30 pm & Varsity @ 6:15 pm
Thursday: Fr. Boys BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Cheer & Wrestling 3:45 – 4:45 pm; JV/V Girls BB 5:00 – 6:30 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:45 – 8:15 pm
Friday: Fr. Boys & Girls BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Boys Home Basketball Games vs Wolcott – JV @ 4:30 pm & Varsity @ 6:15 pm
Saturday: Indoor Track 8:00 – 9:30 am Sunday: BB – TBA
ST. PAUL WINTER SPORTS – FAN POLICY
Consistent with the fall season, we will begin the season with NO FANS (recommendation of the CIAC although leaving the final decision to the respective leagues) allowed at our home games. The NVL has established a league policy restricting visiting fan attendance from any schools. The focus of our Athletic Department will be managing COVID-19 mitigation protocols for St. Paul and visiting student athletes in an effort to create the safest possible environment. We will re-evaluate our fan policy and determine if it is prudent to allow family members to attend home games on a limited basis starting the week of February 22. Thank you for your understanding and patience.
A reminder that all levels of our home basketball games will be streamed live (and taped for later viewing) via the NFHS Network. Information for registering for the Network can be found in the Athletic Section of the school website or visit: https://spchs.com/watch-athletic-contests-on-nhsf-network/
All NVL schools are working on various applications to live stream all basketball games. That information will be disseminated to the appropriate teams before their away games. The boys swim team co-op will also be live streaming home contests.
Please contact Mr. Dennehy, ddennehy@spchs.com, with any questions regarding Winter Sports.
FILL THE FALCON’S NEST – VIRTUALLY
We’re ready to “Fill the Falcon’s Nest” – by putting virtual fans in the stands! Due to spectator restrictions, we will “Fill the Falcon’s Nest” by adding YOUR fan photo and message with other fans “sitting and cheering” with you, all in one large banner. Your photo can be one person or a group of people but only one photo, please. Cost is $30.00
When you place your order, you will be able to upload your photo and choose what message you’d like added. Don’t have a photo but would like to support the athletic program? When placing your order, click “I don’t have a photo but would like to use the Falcon mascot and #GoFalcons message.
Visit https://forms.gle/zKeuFqj248sjxaZg9 to support out student-athletes!
CIAC SPORTMANSHIP CONFERENCE 2021
This year’s virtual conference took place on Wednesday, February 10 from 8:30 – 10:00 am. The conference included presentations of the Michaels Cup Awards and the CIAC Sportsmanship Awards which were presented to high schools in the state who displayed exception acts of sportsmanship and those who developed student driven sportsmanship initiatives within their athletic programs. Attendees heard from an exceptional panel of speakers: Dr. Karrisa Niehoff (Executive Director of the National Federation of High School Sports), Craig Breslow (a former CT high school baseball player and MLB baseball pitcher) who is currently the Assistant General Manager for the Chicago Cubs, and Chris Williams (author, motivational speaker and former DI basketball player at Manhattan College).
The following St. Paul upperclassmen were invited to attend the annual CIAC Sportsmanship Conference: Amelia Badzioch, Romi Bagdasarian, William Barton, Christian Decker, Erin Downes, Carina Fiscella, Daniel & John Gaffney, Adam Houle, Brycen Kennedy, Anna Kretsch, Maddie Kronen, William Kurnik, Sarah Lindquist, Michael Lodge, Caleigh McDougall, James Melvin, Chris Millerick, Samantha Naples, Greta Panke, Mikel Palaj, Matthew Palmieri, Shaun Remillard, Barbara Retartha, Sean Rozmajzl, Gianna Roy, Joshua Silva, Alexis Tierpack, and Francesco Vesci.
BRISTOL SPORTS HALL OF FAME LEADERSHIP WORKSHOP
Members of the Bristol Sports Hall of Fame Leadership Group attended a virtual leadership workshop on January 27 hosted by the Bristol Hall of Fame. Bristol Sports Hall of Fame member Mark Ziogas and Sarah Larson, the Deputy Superintendent of the Bristol Parks and Recreation Department, lead the student athletes from Bristol Central, Bristol Eastern and St. Paul in discussion and debate about different types of leadership styles and how those styles could be best implemented into their roles as student-athlete leaders. The St. Paul contingency:
Football – Brycen Kennedy Boys Soccer – Daniel Bond Girls Soccer – Nina Zwolinski
XC – Sammi Bray/Jonathan Passander
Volleyball – Lana Marie David Girls Swim – Abigail MacAllister Cheerleading – Devin Meurer
Boys Basketball – William Barton
Girls Basketball – Sophia Gerst
Indoor Track – Romi Bagdasarian/Adam Houle
Wrestling – Joshua Silva
Boys Swim – Mikel Palaj
Baseball – Shaun Remillard Softball – Caleigh McDougall Boys Lax – Christian Decker Girls Lax – Greta Panke
Golf – Erin Downes/Chris Millerick Track – Emma Schatz/James Melvin Girls Tennis – Carina Fiscella
was very active when the workshop participants were called on to give feedback and insight on the topics presented. Great job ladies and gentlemen, way to win the day. Go Falcons!
MEALS FOR NEIGHBORS PROGRAM
Corinthians House will sponsor Mission Club’s February Lenten initiative to provide beverages and macaroni & cheese to Zion Lutheran’s Meals for Neighbors program. Donations can be placed in the blue collection box outside the Main Office from February 17 – 22. Please consider donating!
List of requested items: Tea (instant or bags); Coffee (ground or instant); Hot chocolate; Macaroni & cheese (any shelf-stable type, but especially gluten free).
GIRLS SCOUTS MISSION: SISTERHOOD
Julia Clough ‘24 and Brianna Wood ‘24 recently finished a journey in Girl Scouts called Mission: Sisterhood. At the end of each journey, participants were required to do a project, and they decided to make a website. Their website includes topics such as different types of friendships, personal wellness (mental/emotional, social, and physical), and outdoor skills. You can access the website link at: https://mission-sisterhood.blogspot.com/. Very impressive … congratulations!
TEDEd EVENT
TEDEd “Student Talks, Exploring Together” was held on January 28. St. Paul student, Gillian Smith ‘22, attended TEDEd’s first-ever, exploring together, student-only virtual event as over 300 students from 35 countries around the world came together to celebrate student ideas and connect. Congratulations, Gillian!
CONCESSION STAND CARD CLUB
If interested in getting into a new hobby or looking to build on your current passion, you are welcome to attend the new Concession Stand Card Club. Come discuss all things trading card related. Discussing market trends, new releases, and comparing collections are just examples of the activities planned. Meetings are every Wednesday after school in Coach Joe’s office or join remotely. See Coach Joe for more information.
ADVANCEMENT OFFICE – PARENT VOLUNTEERS NEDED
Forever Falcons “Virtual” Gala: Our biggest fundraiser of the year is going virtual this year, and so is our committee! Join in the fun, and get involved in the planning of something new and exciting for St. Paul! The Gala is May 7, our first meeting will be Wednesday, February 17 at 6:30 pm. Join the Zoom meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82195783193?pwd=N3ZFbS85SHhJMTBseVVsQlF6dHZlZz09
Meeting ID: 821 9578 3193 Passcode: 675297
14th Annual Alumni Golf Tournament: Another really fun event every year that brings alumni, parents, and friends of St. Paul together to celebrate our amazing community. This year’s tournament will be
held Monday, June 28. This event is so much fun, hope you’ll join us! Our first meeting will be Wednesday, February 24 at 6:30pm via Zoom.
Parents can sign up to help here! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409044badaf28a6f94-stpaul
HAPPY BIRTHDAY (February 15 – 21)
Happy Birthday to: Alexis Irazabal, Camryn Lefrancois, Evan Zimnoch and Adam Zwolinski.
FINAL WORD
Keep it up … stay vigilant.
It takes all of us, all of the time!
MASK UP
Make sure your mask is covering BOTH your nose and mouth at all times.
WASH HANDS
Wash hands more frequently throughout the day whether that be with soap and water or sanitizing before entering each class and at lunch.
KEEP YOUR DISTANCE
Keep your 6’ distance whenever possible, that includes in the classrooms, study halls, lunch line, and after school.
Enjoy your winter break … see you on Wednesday!
St. Paul, pray for us!
Cary M. Dupont ‘72 President/Chief Administrator
February 14, 2021
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY
FUN FACTS
According to Hallmark, Americans exchange a whopping 145 million Valentine’s Day cards each year making it the second biggest holiday for exchanging greeting cards, after Christmas.
Necco will manufacture over 8 billion conversation hearts … “True Love,” “Hug Me,” “You Rock” and 40 other sayings, starting in the next few days to have enough for next year.
Peace & Greetings,
Lent 2021
“Remember you are dust and to dust you shall return”
This Wednesday, February 17 is Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent 2021. The season of Lent is set aside by the Church for us to reorient ourselves, to gain the proper perspective on things, and put our priorities in order. Each year, at the start of Lent, we go back to the beginning so that we might go forward to redemption. During Lent, the Gospel calls us to conversion, fasting, prayer and almsgiving. Over the next six weeks, our St. Paul Lenten journey will provide us the opportunity to practice the Gospel call in our own lives, inviting us to purify our hearts and seek the love of God above all else in becoming the best version of ourselves. May our 2021 Lenten journey intentionally impact our spiritual lives.
EVENING REFLECTION & PRAYER
A leper came to him (and kneeling down) begged him and said, “If you wish, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand, touched him, and said to him, “I do will it. Be made clean.” The leprosy left him immediately, and he was made clean (Mark 1:40-42). This week we begin the holy season of Lent. Turning away from sin and being faithful to the Gospel requires us to be transformed with our hearts. I pray that as we take up increased prayer, fasting, and almsgiving this Lent we may reflect Jesus even stronger to the world and be transformed by his love.
Let us pray, O God, who teaches us that you abide in hearts that are just and true, grant that we may be so fashioned by your grace as to become a dwelling pleasing to you. Through our Lord, Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Fr. Glen, Chaplain
SCHOOL CALENDAR
Week of February, 15 – 19, 2021
Monday and Tuesday, No School – Winter Vacation, Wednesday (Day 2), Thursday (Day 3) and Friday (Day 1).
NOTE: The school website calendar had a glitch over the weekend that is being resolved. There IS school on Wednesday, February 17.
REMOTE LEARNING – IMPORTANT STUDENT HANDBOOK REMINDERS
This might be an appropriate time to remind students electing to attend school remotely during COVID-19 that they are required to conform to all expectations for proper student behavior as set forth in the 2020-2021 St. Paul Student Handbook. We are strongly encouraging more consistent compliance and cooperation.
- Students must have their video feed on at all times in Zoom and their face must be completely visible on camera unless they have sought and received permission from their teacher to leave the screen.
- Students may choose to leave their Zoom audio on mute, but must unmute themselves to answer a teacher’s question, respond to a comment in class or ask a question.
- Students are expected to be in St. Paul uniform during all Zoom sessions. Students are encouraged to find a quiet setting in their home to attend class.
- Regular attendance is a necessity for achievement in school. Excessive absence, indicating a lack of interest and application, is a hindrance to the learning process and will not be tolerated. For the purposes of official school attendance, each time a remote learner is absent from school, a parent must notify the Main Office between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. to explain the nature of the student’s absence.
- To be recorded as present for a school day, a remote learner must arrive on time to the Zoom session for their homeroom/A period as well as attend at a minimum an additional two full academic class sessions. Attendance in each Zoom class will be taken, and a student who misses more than 15 remote learning classes, will be in danger of not receiving credit for that course.
A reminder that in-person learners are required to take all assessments in-person and not over Zoom. If absent on the day of an assessment, students should be prepared to take their quiz/test on the day they return to school.
WEEKDAY MASS
This week Mass will be held on Ash Wednesday, February 17 at 7:15 am in the St. Paul Chapel (limited seating) for the special intentions of our St. Paul community.
LENT 2021 for Students, Faculty and Staff
On Ash Wednesday, ashes will be voluntarily distributed (COVID sensitive) from 9:45 – 10:30 am (G Period/Class Passing) in the Chapel.
- Mondays: Confessions in the Chapel from 1:00 – 2:00 pm
- Tuesdays: Bible Study based on the discipleship program from Franciscan University in Stubenville with Fr. Glen in Campus Ministry from 2:20 – 2:45 pm
- Wednesdays: Weekly Mass at 7:15 am
- Fridays: Divine Mercy Chaplet in the Chapel at 7:30 am
First Friday of the Month: Eucharistic Adoration at St. Gregory the Great Church. February Adoration is scheduled for Friday, February 19.
Stations of the Cross: TBA
Baby Bottle Boomerang fundraiser for Carolyn’s Place: bottles will be voluntarily distributed to students in religion classes. Faculty/staff should see Sr. Marie Benedict if you wish to participate in collecting loose change during Lent.
Mission Club will continue to offer monthly almsgiving opportunities for our St. Paul community during Lent.
2021 – 2022 RE-REGISTRATION
A reminder that re-registration forms for the Class of 2023 are due in the Guidance Office by this Friday, February 19, 2021. Please see your school counselor if you have any course scheduling questions. Class of 2022 forms were due last Friday, February 12. Please turn the forms in ASAP, if you haven’t already.
GUIDANCE NEWS
We’re very excited to announce upcoming sessions of the Perry Virtual Experience in March 2021. The Perry Virtual Experience is a free, 2.5-hour, interactive online experience for high school and college-aged women who are interested in pursuing careers in orthopedic surgery and engineering. Participants will hear from women leaders in these fields and dive into online orthopedic simulations and biomechanics experiments. Additional information can be found on our website: https://perryinitiative.org/pve/
CONGRATULATIONS to the following Seniors on their recent college acceptances: Emma Zenobi Sienna College
Seniors are reminded to notify their school counselor if they want their college acceptances to be acknowledged.
ATHLETICS – SP GYM SCHEDULE
Week of February 15
Monday: JV/V Girls BB 10:00 am – Noon; Fr. Girls BB 12:15 – 2:00 pm; Indoor Track 4:15 – 5:45 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Tuesday: JV/V Girls BB 10:00 am – Noon; Fr. Girls BB 12:15 – 2:15 pm; Fr. Boys BB 3:45 – 5:45 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Wednesday: Girls Home Basketball Games vs Seymour – JV @ 4:00 pm & Varsity @ 5:30 pm Thursday: Fr. Boys BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Cheer & Wrestling 3:45 – 4:45 pm; JV/V Girls BB 5:00 –
6:30 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:45 – 8:15 pm
Friday: Fr. Boys & Girls BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Boys Home Basketball Games vs Naugatuck – JV @ 4:30 pm & Varsity @ 6:15 pm
Saturday: Indoor Track 8:00 – 9:30 am Sunday: BB – TBA
Week of February 22
Monday: Wrestling 2:30 – 3:45 pm; Fr. Girls BB 4:00 – 5:00 pm; Girls Home Basketball Game vs Watertown – Varsity @ 6:00 pm
Tuesday: Fr. Boys BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Cheer & Wrestling 3:45 – 4:45 pm; JV/V Girls BB 5:00 – 6:30 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:45 – 8:15 pm
Wednesday: Fr. Girls BB 2:30 – 4:00 pm; Girls Home Basketball Games vs Torrington –
JV @ 4:30 pm & Varsity @ 6:15 pm
Thursday: Fr. Boys BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Cheer & Wrestling 3:45 – 4:45 pm; JV/V Girls BB 5:00 – 6:30 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:45 – 8:15 pm
Friday: Fr. Boys & Girls BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Boys Home Basketball Games vs Wolcott – JV @ 4:30 pm & Varsity @ 6:15 pm
Saturday: Indoor Track 8:00 – 9:30 am Sunday: BB – TBA
ST. PAUL WINTER SPORTS – FAN POLICY
Consistent with the fall season, we will begin the season with NO FANS (recommendation of the CIAC although leaving the final decision to the respective leagues) allowed at our home games. The NVL has established a league policy restricting visiting fan attendance from any schools. The focus of our Athletic Department will be managing COVID-19 mitigation protocols for St. Paul and visiting student athletes in an effort to create the safest possible environment. We will re-evaluate our fan policy and determine if it is prudent to allow family members to attend home games on a limited basis starting the week of February 22. Thank you for your understanding and patience.
A reminder that all levels of our home basketball games will be streamed live (and taped for later viewing) via the NFHS Network. Information for registering for the Network can be found in the Athletic Section of the school website or visit: https://spchs.com/watch-athletic-contests-on-nhsf-network/
All NVL schools are working on various applications to live stream all basketball games. That information will be disseminated to the appropriate teams before their away games. The boys swim team co-op will also be live streaming home contests.
Please contact Mr. Dennehy, ddennehy@spchs.com, with any questions regarding Winter Sports.
FILL THE FALCON’S NEST – VIRTUALLY
We’re ready to “Fill the Falcon’s Nest” – by putting virtual fans in the stands! Due to spectator restrictions, we will “Fill the Falcon’s Nest” by adding YOUR fan photo and message with other fans “sitting and cheering” with you, all in one large banner. Your photo can be one person or a group of people but only one photo, please. Cost is $30.00
When you place your order, you will be able to upload your photo and choose what message you’d like added. Don’t have a photo but would like to support the athletic program? When placing your order, click “I don’t have a photo but would like to use the Falcon mascot and #GoFalcons message.
Visit https://forms.gle/zKeuFqj248sjxaZg9 to support out student-athletes!
CIAC SPORTMANSHIP CONFERENCE 2021
This year’s virtual conference took place on Wednesday, February 10 from 8:30 – 10:00 am. The conference included presentations of the Michaels Cup Awards and the CIAC Sportsmanship Awards which were presented to high schools in the state who displayed exception acts of sportsmanship and those who developed student driven sportsmanship initiatives within their athletic programs. Attendees heard from an exceptional panel of speakers: Dr. Karrisa Niehoff (Executive Director of the National Federation of High School Sports), Craig Breslow (a former CT high school baseball player and MLB baseball pitcher) who is currently the Assistant General Manager for the Chicago Cubs, and Chris Williams (author, motivational speaker and former DI basketball player at Manhattan College).
The following St. Paul upperclassmen were invited to attend the annual CIAC Sportsmanship Conference: Amelia Badzioch, Romi Bagdasarian, William Barton, Christian Decker, Erin Downes, Carina Fiscella, Daniel & John Gaffney, Adam Houle, Brycen Kennedy, Anna Kretsch, Maddie Kronen, William Kurnik, Sarah Lindquist, Michael Lodge, Caleigh McDougall, James Melvin, Chris Millerick, Samantha Naples, Greta Panke, Mikel Palaj, Matthew Palmieri, Shaun Remillard, Barbara Retartha, Sean Rozmajzl, Gianna Roy, Joshua Silva, Alexis Tierpack, and Francesco Vesci.
BRISTOL SPORTS HALL OF FAME LEADERSHIP WORKSHOP
Members of the Bristol Sports Hall of Fame Leadership Group attended a virtual leadership workshop on January 27 hosted by the Bristol Hall of Fame. Bristol Sports Hall of Fame member Mark Ziogas and Sarah Larson, the Deputy Superintendent of the Bristol Parks and Recreation Department, lead the student athletes from Bristol Central, Bristol Eastern and St. Paul in discussion and debate about different types of leadership styles and how those styles could be best implemented into their roles as student-athlete leaders. The St. Paul contingency:
Football – Brycen Kennedy Boys Soccer – Daniel Bond Girls Soccer – Nina Zwolinski
XC – Sammi Bray/Jonathan Passander
Volleyball – Lana Marie David Girls Swim – Abigail MacAllister Cheerleading – Devin Meurer
Boys Basketball – William Barton
Girls Basketball – Sophia Gerst
Indoor Track – Romi Bagdasarian/Adam Houle
Wrestling – Joshua Silva
Boys Swim – Mikel Palaj
Baseball – Shaun Remillard Softball – Caleigh McDougall Boys Lax – Christian Decker Girls Lax – Greta Panke
Golf – Erin Downes/Chris Millerick Track – Emma Schatz/James Melvin Girls Tennis – Carina Fiscella
was very active when the workshop participants were called on to give feedback and insight on the topics presented. Great job ladies and gentlemen, way to win the day. Go Falcons!
MEALS FOR NEIGHBORS PROGRAM
Corinthians House will sponsor Mission Club’s February Lenten initiative to provide beverages and macaroni & cheese to Zion Lutheran’s Meals for Neighbors program. Donations can be placed in the blue collection box outside the Main Office from February 17 – 22. Please consider donating!
List of requested items: Tea (instant or bags); Coffee (ground or instant); Hot chocolate; Macaroni & cheese (any shelf-stable type, but especially gluten free).
GIRLS SCOUTS MISSION: SISTERHOOD
Julia Clough ‘24 and Brianna Wood ‘24 recently finished a journey in Girl Scouts called Mission: Sisterhood. At the end of each journey, participants were required to do a project, and they decided to make a website. Their website includes topics such as different types of friendships, personal wellness (mental/emotional, social, and physical), and outdoor skills. You can access the website link at: https://mission-sisterhood.blogspot.com/. Very impressive … congratulations!
TEDEd EVENT
TEDEd “Student Talks, Exploring Together” was held on January 28. St. Paul student, Gillian Smith ‘22, attended TEDEd’s first-ever, exploring together, student-only virtual event as over 300 students from 35 countries around the world came together to celebrate student ideas and connect. Congratulations, Gillian!
CONCESSION STAND CARD CLUB
If interested in getting into a new hobby or looking to build on your current passion, you are welcome to attend the new Concession Stand Card Club. Come discuss all things trading card related. Discussing market trends, new releases, and comparing collections are just examples of the activities planned. Meetings are every Wednesday after school in Coach Joe’s office or join remotely. See Coach Joe for more information.
ADVANCEMENT OFFICE – PARENT VOLUNTEERS NEDED
Forever Falcons “Virtual” Gala: Our biggest fundraiser of the year is going virtual this year, and so is our committee! Join in the fun, and get involved in the planning of something new and exciting for St. Paul! The Gala is May 7, our first meeting will be Wednesday, February 17 at 6:30 pm. Join the Zoom meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82195783193?pwd=N3ZFbS85SHhJMTBseVVsQlF6dHZlZz09
Meeting ID: 821 9578 3193 Passcode: 675297
14th Annual Alumni Golf Tournament: Another really fun event every year that brings alumni, parents, and friends of St. Paul together to celebrate our amazing community. This year’s tournament will be
held Monday, June 28. This event is so much fun, hope you’ll join us! Our first meeting will be Wednesday, February 24 at 6:30pm via Zoom.
Parents can sign up to help here! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409044badaf28a6f94-stpaul
HAPPY BIRTHDAY (February 15 – 21)
Happy Birthday to: Alexis Irazabal, Camryn Lefrancois, Evan Zimnoch and Adam Zwolinski.
FINAL WORD
Keep it up … stay vigilant.
It takes all of us, all of the time!
MASK UP
Make sure your mask is covering BOTH your nose and mouth at all times.
WASH HANDS
Wash hands more frequently throughout the day whether that be with soap and water or sanitizing before entering each class and at lunch.
KEEP YOUR DISTANCE
Keep your 6’ distance whenever possible, that includes in the classrooms, study halls, lunch line, and after school.
Enjoy your winter break … see you on Wednesday!
St. Paul, pray for us!
Cary M. Dupont ‘72 President/Chief Administrator
February 14, 2021
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY
FUN FACTS
According to Hallmark, Americans exchange a whopping 145 million Valentine’s Day cards each year making it the second biggest holiday for exchanging greeting cards, after Christmas.
Necco will manufacture over 8 billion conversation hearts … “True Love,” “Hug Me,” “You Rock” and 40 other sayings, starting in the next few days to have enough for next year.
Peace & Greetings,
Lent 2021
“Remember you are dust and to dust you shall return”
This Wednesday, February 17 is Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent 2021. The season of Lent is set aside by the Church for us to reorient ourselves, to gain the proper perspective on things, and put our priorities in order. Each year, at the start of Lent, we go back to the beginning so that we might go forward to redemption. During Lent, the Gospel calls us to conversion, fasting, prayer and almsgiving. Over the next six weeks, our St. Paul Lenten journey will provide us the opportunity to practice the Gospel call in our own lives, inviting us to purify our hearts and seek the love of God above all else in becoming the best version of ourselves. May our 2021 Lenten journey intentionally impact our spiritual lives.
EVENING REFLECTION & PRAYER
A leper came to him (and kneeling down) begged him and said, “If you wish, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand, touched him, and said to him, “I do will it. Be made clean.” The leprosy left him immediately, and he was made clean (Mark 1:40-42). This week we begin the holy season of Lent. Turning away from sin and being faithful to the Gospel requires us to be transformed with our hearts. I pray that as we take up increased prayer, fasting, and almsgiving this Lent we may reflect Jesus even stronger to the world and be transformed by his love.
Let us pray, O God, who teaches us that you abide in hearts that are just and true, grant that we may be so fashioned by your grace as to become a dwelling pleasing to you. Through our Lord, Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Fr. Glen, Chaplain
SCHOOL CALENDAR
Week of February, 15 – 19, 2021
Monday and Tuesday, No School – Winter Vacation, Wednesday (Day 2), Thursday (Day 3) and Friday (Day 1).
NOTE: The school website calendar had a glitch over the weekend that is being resolved. There IS school on Wednesday, February 17.
REMOTE LEARNING – IMPORTANT STUDENT HANDBOOK REMINDERS
This might be an appropriate time to remind students electing to attend school remotely during COVID-19 that they are required to conform to all expectations for proper student behavior as set forth in the 2020-2021 St. Paul Student Handbook. We are strongly encouraging more consistent compliance and cooperation.
- Students must have their video feed on at all times in Zoom and their face must be completely visible on camera unless they have sought and received permission from their teacher to leave the screen.
- Students may choose to leave their Zoom audio on mute, but must unmute themselves to answer a teacher’s question, respond to a comment in class or ask a question.
- Students are expected to be in St. Paul uniform during all Zoom sessions. Students are encouraged to find a quiet setting in their home to attend class.
- Regular attendance is a necessity for achievement in school. Excessive absence, indicating a lack of interest and application, is a hindrance to the learning process and will not be tolerated. For the purposes of official school attendance, each time a remote learner is absent from school, a parent must notify the Main Office between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. to explain the nature of the student’s absence.
- To be recorded as present for a school day, a remote learner must arrive on time to the Zoom session for their homeroom/A period as well as attend at a minimum an additional two full academic class sessions. Attendance in each Zoom class will be taken, and a student who misses more than 15 remote learning classes, will be in danger of not receiving credit for that course.
A reminder that in-person learners are required to take all assessments in-person and not over Zoom. If absent on the day of an assessment, students should be prepared to take their quiz/test on the day they return to school.
WEEKDAY MASS
This week Mass will be held on Ash Wednesday, February 17 at 7:15 am in the St. Paul Chapel (limited seating) for the special intentions of our St. Paul community.
LENT 2021 for Students, Faculty and Staff
On Ash Wednesday, ashes will be voluntarily distributed (COVID sensitive) from 9:45 – 10:30 am (G Period/Class Passing) in the Chapel.
- Mondays: Confessions in the Chapel from 1:00 – 2:00 pm
- Tuesdays: Bible Study based on the discipleship program from Franciscan University in Stubenville with Fr. Glen in Campus Ministry from 2:20 – 2:45 pm
- Wednesdays: Weekly Mass at 7:15 am
- Fridays: Divine Mercy Chaplet in the Chapel at 7:30 am
First Friday of the Month: Eucharistic Adoration at St. Gregory the Great Church. February Adoration is scheduled for Friday, February 19.
Stations of the Cross: TBA
Baby Bottle Boomerang fundraiser for Carolyn’s Place: bottles will be voluntarily distributed to students in religion classes. Faculty/staff should see Sr. Marie Benedict if you wish to participate in collecting loose change during Lent.
Mission Club will continue to offer monthly almsgiving opportunities for our St. Paul community during Lent.
2021 – 2022 RE-REGISTRATION
A reminder that re-registration forms for the Class of 2023 are due in the Guidance Office by this Friday, February 19, 2021. Please see your school counselor if you have any course scheduling questions. Class of 2022 forms were due last Friday, February 12. Please turn the forms in ASAP, if you haven’t already.
GUIDANCE NEWS
We’re very excited to announce upcoming sessions of the Perry Virtual Experience in March 2021. The Perry Virtual Experience is a free, 2.5-hour, interactive online experience for high school and college-aged women who are interested in pursuing careers in orthopedic surgery and engineering. Participants will hear from women leaders in these fields and dive into online orthopedic simulations and biomechanics experiments. Additional information can be found on our website: https://perryinitiative.org/pve/
CONGRATULATIONS to the following Seniors on their recent college acceptances: Emma Zenobi Sienna College
Seniors are reminded to notify their school counselor if they want their college acceptances to be acknowledged.
ATHLETICS – SP GYM SCHEDULE
Week of February 15
Monday: JV/V Girls BB 10:00 am – Noon; Fr. Girls BB 12:15 – 2:00 pm; Indoor Track 4:15 – 5:45 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Tuesday: JV/V Girls BB 10:00 am – Noon; Fr. Girls BB 12:15 – 2:15 pm; Fr. Boys BB 3:45 – 5:45 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Wednesday: Girls Home Basketball Games vs Seymour – JV @ 4:00 pm & Varsity @ 5:30 pm Thursday: Fr. Boys BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Cheer & Wrestling 3:45 – 4:45 pm; JV/V Girls BB 5:00 –
6:30 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:45 – 8:15 pm
Friday: Fr. Boys & Girls BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Boys Home Basketball Games vs Naugatuck – JV @ 4:30 pm & Varsity @ 6:15 pm
Saturday: Indoor Track 8:00 – 9:30 am Sunday: BB – TBA
Week of February 22
Monday: Wrestling 2:30 – 3:45 pm; Fr. Girls BB 4:00 – 5:00 pm; Girls Home Basketball Game vs Watertown – Varsity @ 6:00 pm
Tuesday: Fr. Boys BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Cheer & Wrestling 3:45 – 4:45 pm; JV/V Girls BB 5:00 – 6:30 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:45 – 8:15 pm
Wednesday: Fr. Girls BB 2:30 – 4:00 pm; Girls Home Basketball Games vs Torrington –
JV @ 4:30 pm & Varsity @ 6:15 pm
Thursday: Fr. Boys BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Cheer & Wrestling 3:45 – 4:45 pm; JV/V Girls BB 5:00 – 6:30 pm; JV/V Boys BB 6:45 – 8:15 pm
Friday: Fr. Boys & Girls BB 2:30 – 3:30 pm; Boys Home Basketball Games vs Wolcott – JV @ 4:30 pm & Varsity @ 6:15 pm
Saturday: Indoor Track 8:00 – 9:30 am Sunday: BB – TBA
ST. PAUL WINTER SPORTS – FAN POLICY
Consistent with the fall season, we will begin the season with NO FANS (recommendation of the CIAC although leaving the final decision to the respective leagues) allowed at our home games. The NVL has established a league policy restricting visiting fan attendance from any schools. The focus of our Athletic Department will be managing COVID-19 mitigation protocols for St. Paul and visiting student athletes in an effort to create the safest possible environment. We will re-evaluate our fan policy and determine if it is prudent to allow family members to attend home games on a limited basis starting the week of February 22. Thank you for your understanding and patience.
A reminder that all levels of our home basketball games will be streamed live (and taped for later viewing) via the NFHS Network. Information for registering for the Network can be found in the Athletic Section of the school website or visit: https://spchs.com/watch-athletic-contests-on-nhsf-network/
All NVL schools are working on various applications to live stream all basketball games. That information will be disseminated to the appropriate teams before their away games. The boys swim team co-op will also be live streaming home contests.
Please contact Mr. Dennehy, ddennehy@spchs.com, with any questions regarding Winter Sports.
FILL THE FALCON’S NEST – VIRTUALLY
We’re ready to “Fill the Falcon’s Nest” – by putting virtual fans in the stands! Due to spectator restrictions, we will “Fill the Falcon’s Nest” by adding YOUR fan photo and message with other fans “sitting and cheering” with you, all in one large banner. Your photo can be one person or a group of people but only one photo, please. Cost is $30.00
When you place your order, you will be able to upload your photo and choose what message you’d like added. Don’t have a photo but would like to support the athletic program? When placing your order, click “I don’t have a photo but would like to use the Falcon mascot and #GoFalcons message.
Visit https://forms.gle/zKeuFqj248sjxaZg9 to support out student-athletes!
CIAC SPORTMANSHIP CONFERENCE 2021
This year’s virtual conference took place on Wednesday, February 10 from 8:30 – 10:00 am. The conference included presentations of the Michaels Cup Awards and the CIAC Sportsmanship Awards which were presented to high schools in the state who displayed exception acts of sportsmanship and those who developed student driven sportsmanship initiatives within their athletic programs. Attendees heard from an exceptional panel of speakers: Dr. Karrisa Niehoff (Executive Director of the National Federation of High School Sports), Craig Breslow (a former CT high school baseball player and MLB baseball pitcher) who is currently the Assistant General Manager for the Chicago Cubs, and Chris Williams (author, motivational speaker and former DI basketball player at Manhattan College).
The following St. Paul upperclassmen were invited to attend the annual CIAC Sportsmanship Conference: Amelia Badzioch, Romi Bagdasarian, William Barton, Christian Decker, Erin Downes, Carina Fiscella, Daniel & John Gaffney, Adam Houle, Brycen Kennedy, Anna Kretsch, Maddie Kronen, William Kurnik, Sarah Lindquist, Michael Lodge, Caleigh McDougall, James Melvin, Chris Millerick, Samantha Naples, Greta Panke, Mikel Palaj, Matthew Palmieri, Shaun Remillard, Barbara Retartha, Sean Rozmajzl, Gianna Roy, Joshua Silva, Alexis Tierpack, and Francesco Vesci.
BRISTOL SPORTS HALL OF FAME LEADERSHIP WORKSHOP
Members of the Bristol Sports Hall of Fame Leadership Group attended a virtual leadership workshop on January 27 hosted by the Bristol Hall of Fame. Bristol Sports Hall of Fame member Mark Ziogas and Sarah Larson, the Deputy Superintendent of the Bristol Parks and Recreation Department, lead the student athletes from Bristol Central, Bristol Eastern and St. Paul in discussion and debate about different types of leadership styles and how those styles could be best implemented into their roles as student-athlete leaders. The St. Paul contingency:
Football – Brycen Kennedy Boys Soccer – Daniel Bond Girls Soccer – Nina Zwolinski
XC – Sammi Bray/Jonathan Passander
Volleyball – Lana Marie David Girls Swim – Abigail MacAllister Cheerleading – Devin Meurer
Boys Basketball – William Barton
Girls Basketball – Sophia Gerst
Indoor Track – Romi Bagdasarian/Adam Houle
Wrestling – Joshua Silva
Boys Swim – Mikel Palaj
Baseball – Shaun Remillard Softball – Caleigh McDougall Boys Lax – Christian Decker Girls Lax – Greta Panke
Golf – Erin Downes/Chris Millerick Track – Emma Schatz/James Melvin Girls Tennis – Carina Fiscella
was very active when the workshop participants were called on to give feedback and insight on the topics presented. Great job ladies and gentlemen, way to win the day. Go Falcons!
MEALS FOR NEIGHBORS PROGRAM
Corinthians House will sponsor Mission Club’s February Lenten initiative to provide beverages and macaroni & cheese to Zion Lutheran’s Meals for Neighbors program. Donations can be placed in the blue collection box outside the Main Office from February 17 – 22. Please consider donating!
List of requested items: Tea (instant or bags); Coffee (ground or instant); Hot chocolate; Macaroni & cheese (any shelf-stable type, but especially gluten free).
GIRLS SCOUTS MISSION: SISTERHOOD
Julia Clough ‘24 and Brianna Wood ‘24 recently finished a journey in Girl Scouts called Mission: Sisterhood. At the end of each journey, participants were required to do a project, and they decided to make a website. Their website includes topics such as different types of friendships, personal wellness (mental/emotional, social, and physical), and outdoor skills. You can access the website link at: https://mission-sisterhood.blogspot.com/. Very impressive … congratulations!
TEDEd EVENT
TEDEd “Student Talks, Exploring Together” was held on January 28. St. Paul student, Gillian Smith ‘22, attended TEDEd’s first-ever, exploring together, student-only virtual event as over 300 students from 35 countries around the world came together to celebrate student ideas and connect. Congratulations, Gillian!
CONCESSION STAND CARD CLUB
If interested in getting into a new hobby or looking to build on your current passion, you are welcome to attend the new Concession Stand Card Club. Come discuss all things trading card related. Discussing market trends, new releases, and comparing collections are just examples of the activities planned. Meetings are every Wednesday after school in Coach Joe’s office or join remotely. See Coach Joe for more information.
ADVANCEMENT OFFICE – PARENT VOLUNTEERS NEDED
Forever Falcons “Virtual” Gala: Our biggest fundraiser of the year is going virtual this year, and so is our committee! Join in the fun, and get involved in the planning of something new and exciting for St. Paul! The Gala is May 7, our first meeting will be Wednesday, February 17 at 6:30 pm. Join the Zoom meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82195783193?pwd=N3ZFbS85SHhJMTBseVVsQlF6dHZlZz09
Meeting ID: 821 9578 3193 Passcode: 675297
14th Annual Alumni Golf Tournament: Another really fun event every year that brings alumni, parents, and friends of St. Paul together to celebrate our amazing community. This year’s tournament will be
held Monday, June 28. This event is so much fun, hope you’ll join us! Our first meeting will be Wednesday, February 24 at 6:30pm via Zoom.
Parents can sign up to help here! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409044badaf28a6f94-stpaul
HAPPY BIRTHDAY (February 15 – 21)
Happy Birthday to: Alexis Irazabal, Camryn Lefrancois, Evan Zimnoch and Adam Zwolinski.
FINAL WORD
Keep it up … stay vigilant.
It takes all of us, all of the time!
MASK UP
Make sure your mask is covering BOTH your nose and mouth at all times.
WASH HANDS
Wash hands more frequently throughout the day whether that be with soap and water or sanitizing before entering each class and at lunch.
KEEP YOUR DISTANCE
Keep your 6’ distance whenever possible, that includes in the classrooms, study halls, lunch line, and after school.
Enjoy your winter break … see you on Wednesday!
St. Paul, pray for us!
Cary M. Dupont ‘72 President/Chief Administrator
