December 4, 2018 | Newsletter
Greetings from the Head of Upper School
Julie Lenherr Edson '88
Head of Upper School
Dear Parents,
With the turn of the calendar to December 1, the energy on campus has quickly shifted to one of excitement, as there is much to look forward to, including Kris Kringles (KKs), the Christmas Concert, Candlelight Mass, and, of course, the anticipation of final exams and the beginning of vacation.
This past weekend marked the beginning of Advent for Christians and Hanukkah for Jews. While these holidays hold different meanings, they both offer believers an invitation to reflect on one's faith, to remember those in need, and to give back to the community. Read more.
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News and Notes
Around Campus
Department Spotlight: Religious Studies
World Religions, Scripture, and Philosophy classes all wrestle with the question: Who are we?
Finals and your vacation
Please note that the first semester final exam schedule is available on the Upper School Calendar. As we are unable to alter this schedule to accommodate individual vacation plans, we ask that both resident and day families make December travel and vacation arrangements in accordance with this schedule. If you have any questions about the final exam schedule, please contact Dean of Academics Peter Myers.
Angela Hu '19 named Monterey Bay area's 2018 Outstanding Philanthropic Youth
Angela received the award because of the many causes she advocates for at Santa Catalina, including through the Peace and Justice Club. Read more.
- Safe Space and the Students of Color Club are co-sponsoring a toiletry drive for the holidays. Collection boxes are in Study Hall.
- Math teacher Jennifer Duncan is collecting children's books, blankets, sleeping bags, towels, winter clothing, games, and school supplies for a variety of local places serving men, women, and children in need.
- Students packed Boxes of Joy over the weekend filled with toys, stuffed animals, school supplies, and home and toiletry items for families with children who would not otherwise receive gifts this year. Find out how to send a box of your own.
Southern California college tour
Santa Catalina is looking into the possibility of a tour of Southern California colleges and universities during winter break, February 25-28. A minimum of 20 students is needed to offer this campus tour. The trip is open to sophomores and juniors, as well as seniors who might be interested in checking out colleges where they have applied but haven't yet visited. Boarding students will have to make arrangements for the weekend before the trip and the three days after students return. Download a sample itinerary.
If you are interested, contact Betty Van Wagenen, director of College Counseling, as soon as possible at betty.vanwagenen@santacatalina.org.
New York City arts trip
During Easter Break, Theatre Arts Chair Lara Wheeler Devlin '02 will lead a seven-day arts trip to New York City. Students will attend a minimum of four musicals, one dramatic performance, and one opera or ballet. Additionally, there will be visits to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, shopping at Columbus circle, a backstage tour of a Broadway theatre, and other amazing surprises and activities. The cost of the trip is $3,750, and at least five students must sign up for the trip to go. For more information, download this flyer or contact Ms. Devlin at 831.655.9398 or lara.devlin@santacatalina.org.
News Roundup
- Our pool has been drained as we prepare for a resurfacing project that will improve the safety of the deck as well as the overall aesthetics. The pool is expected to reopen by the start of the second semester.
- Due to our many service projects, Santa Catalina has been recognized as a Gold-Level Global High School with Catholic Relief Services.
- A computer science class teamed up with the library for a research project on the pros and cons of cutting-edge technology.
In the Bookstore
Looking for the perfect Christmas gift? Consider this sterling silver spirit bracelet with school logo. It is handwoven with a synthetic band in navy/white, and is adjustable. Gift wrapping always available! $34.00.
Athletics
Laurel Wong '19 signs with Stanford
Surrounded by classmates, family, and coaches, Catalina's state pole vault champion signed her letter of intent to compete at Stanford University on National Signing Day. Read more.
The winter season is here!
The soccer and basketball teams have a few games under their belts, with several more coming up before break.
Parents Association
Welcome Back Reception with Head of School Meg Bradley
3:00 p.m. Sunday, January 6
Join fellow Santa Catalina Upper School parents for a reception with Head of School Meg Bradley. Detailed information to follow.
Volunteer for the Annual Benefit Celebration
Next planning meeting: 8:00 a.m. Thursday, December 11, Dining Room
Want to join the fun of planning our Annual Benefit Celebration? There is a job for everyone! Being part of a Benefit committee is a great way to meet and connect with other parents while helping our school provide for our children. To help with this year's event, please email Cristy Mehringer or join us next week to learn about more opportunities to help. We look forward to seeing you there!
Admission
Next Open House is January 20!
Thanks to everyone who helped make our November Open House a success! There's one more chance to invite someone you know to campus. Our next Open House is Sunday, January 20—RSVP here.
Giving
Thanks for participating in the Santa Catalina Fund!
The Santa Catalina Fund was a huge success! Thank you to all parents who participated. Your early donations have already started working for our students and faculty. Freshmen parents had the highest participation with 86 percent, while total Upper School parent participation reached 72 percent. Great work! Learn more.
Student Life
Sophomores Meg Woolf and Dylan Barry-Schoen hung stockings for all residents of Greer Dorm, including resident faculty.
Weekend activities for day and boarding students
The following activities are offered in December. (Subject to change depending on student interest.)
- December 7: Christmas Concert, Fair Trade Sale
- December 8: Mini Gingerbread House decorating, "Mamma Mia" at the Golden Bough
- December 9: Fork Friends cooking class
- December 14: Special viewing of "Schindler's List" for the 25th anniversary (co-sponsored by Peace and Justice and Jewish Culture Club)
- December 15: Reconciliation, Christmas Dinner, Candlelight Mass
- December 16: Yoga Study Break
It's Kris Kringle time!
Sometimes it feels like Christmas hasn't arrived until this favorite holiday tradition kicks in. Here's the schedule:
- December 7: Desk decorating in Study Hall
- December 10: Students give their KK a handmade or baked gift
- Decemeber 11: Gift exchange party
In the spirit of sustainability, the R4 environmental club salvages decor each year and pre-cuts paper. In addition, students can make reusable desk covers and can opt to have a donation made in their name to the Children's Fund rather than a gift.
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Upcoming Events
Check our online calendar for the latest information
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Photo of the Month
Christmas is everywhere at Catalina! We hope you and your families have a warm and wonderful holiday.
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