As you read this letter, I am hopeful that you are enjoying a very restful summer as we enter the month of July. As we approach the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year, we are excited to welcome back our students to campus and embark on an enriching and exciting journey together. I am also hopeful that you will find plenty of helpful information in this summer onboarding packet. It is important that both parents and students review this document with important dates, times, and reminders.
Our preparations for the upcoming year are well underway. Starting next week, we will commence renovations in the cafeteria and teacher’s lounge, beginning with flooring installation and continuing throughout the month to ensure a smooth transition to Sage Dining in August.
Additionally, we continue to grow and develop other aspects of our campus, such as, the installation of new engineering equipment to our STEAM lab in the Phil Smith Family Building. These include a Mach100 water jet table as well as Tormach CNC mill and laithe. This is truly cutting edge equipment for our Engineering Pathway students and our goal of STEM certification. All our classrooms are being upgraded with Clear Touch boards to enhance student learning in the classroom with interactive technology. We will begin rolling out vape detectors as well as re-introduce the use of drug K9’s to ensure a safe environment for everyone on campus. And, our runners will be able to enjoy a newly resurfaced track.
As a school, we will be refocusing our vision by Elevating our Faith and Academics. Ultimately, as a Catholic School, these are the first two things that should come to mind - Catholic and School. I look forward to sharing more specifics in the fall about the vision and corresponding values that will permeate all facets of our school. This will coincide with next year’s theme, Angels Among Us. The Greek word for angel means “messenger,” as clearly exhibited by the Angel Gabriel announcing the birth of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke. God works through many angels, both celestial and neighborly. As a Catholic school, we look forward to recognizing the angels we encounter on a daily basis and prepare our students to be angels and saints in their daily lives toward God and their neighbor.
I eagerly await the return of our Chiefs, and I are confident that the 2024-2025 school year will be one of growth, achievement, and memorable experiences. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in your child's education. Together, may we endeavor to elevate our students into the best versions of themselves both in faith and academic excellence.
Wishing you a wonderful remainder of the summer and looking forward to having everyone back on campus soon!
Sincerely,
Oscar Cedeño Principal
Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year at Cardinal Gibbons High School! We are excited to begin another year of faith, learning, and growth alongside your family At CGHS, our Christ-centered approach remains foundational, guiding us as we embrace values such as accountability with dignity, fostering curious critical thinkers, and promoting transformative lifelong learning.
Our vision, "Elevating Faith & Academics," inspires us to create an environment where students excel both spiritually and academically We invite you to engage with our community by sharing your time, talent, and treasure Your involvement is vital to enriching our school and supporting our mission
“Elevating Faith & Academics.”
As we embark on this new school year, we hope you find answers to your questions and feel well-prepared for a successful start. We anticipate a successful school year and look forward to partnering with you on your child's journey
Mr Oscar Cedeño Principal
StudentOrientations
As we prepare for the upcoming school year, we want to ensure that all students and parents are informed about the mandatory orientation sessions scheduled for each grade level Please carefully review the dates and times listed below for your child's specific orientation session. During orientation, students will be provided with detailed information regarding school policies, expectations, and our emergency preparedness plans Additionally, yearbook and ID photos for all underclassmen will be taken at this time. Please ensure that you are in proper uniform and adhere to the uniform policies outlined in the handbook, including guidelines on hair, shaving, tattoos, etc. Students who do not comply with the uniform policies will not have their photos taken
Freshmen and transfer students will receive their school assigned iPads during the student orientation You will receive an email from our Technology Department containing instructional videos for setting up accounts
Transfer students are required to attend both grade-level and parent orientation
Please note, seniors are required to arrange their senior portraits with Munoz Photography by August 16th. Click here to book your photo session or call (954) 564-7150.
Orientation& FirstDaySchedule
Tuesday, August 13
8:00am - 10:30am Sophomore Student Orientation 11:00am - 1:30pm Junior Student Orientation (No School for 9th & 12th)
6:00pm - 7:30pm New Student & Parent Orientation (9th Grade & Transfer Students)
Wednesday, August 14
8:00am - 1:30pm Freshman Student Day 8:30am - 12:30pm Senior Student Orientation Freshman/Senior Picnic (No School for 10th & 11th) Freshmmen must bring a copy of their class schedule
Thursday, August 15 at 7:55am
First full day of classes for all students is a Day #2 (Periods E, F, G, H) All School Mass - Feast of the Assumption
Students should arrive to their first-period class (E period) no later than 7:55am in full uniform. Pants are required for all Mass days
Academics&Curriculum
Career Readiness Pathways
10-12th grade students who have applied for a Career Readiness Pathway have been accepted into the program and their courses are now scheduled More information will be available in August For questions about these programs, click here to visit our school website or reach out to the Pathway Coordinator.
Summer Reading
Summer reading assignments are mandatory for all students. The summer reading requirements and packets are due on August 18 to your English teacher No late assignments will be accepted Students will be assessed on summer reading during the first week of school All assignments are available on our website.
Immunization Records
Mrs. Kari Borud Lead Pathway Coordinator borud@cghsfl.org
Ms. Taylor Gilhauley Business Pathway Coordinator gilhauley@cghsfl.org
Mr. Bill Carangelo Engineering Pathway Coordinator carangelo@cghsfl.org
Mrs. Erin Meyer Digital Video Production Pathway meyer@cgshfl.org
Mr. Mike Stringer Computer Science Pathway stringer@cghsfl.org
Physical and Immunization Forms are required for all new incoming students. Please submit your child(s) latest immunization record to the Office of Admissions by August 1, 2024 Immunization records must be received before a class schedule will be released
Midterm & Final Exams
Midterm and final exams are mandatory assessments at the end of each semester to evaluate student knowledge, accounting for 20% of the semester grade It is important not to schedule trips during exams days. Missed exams incur a make-up exam fee and will be rescheduled by administration Refer to the Parent/Student Handbook for detailed policies on exam exemptions for seniors and underclassmen
Dr. Katrina Azevedo Vice Principal for Academics & Curriculum azevedo@cghsfl.org
Dr. Stephen Louy Dean of Faculty (954) 491-2900 ext. 103 louy@cghsfl.org
Counselors and Advisors will be available beginning August 1st All scheduling and counseling questions will be answered at this time
Incoming FreshmenAgenda Initiative
Starting this school year, all incoming freshmen will receive a school agenda to help them stay organized. With guidance from counselors and teachers, students will learn effective calendar management for keeping track of assignments, tests, and daily schedules Whether using online or paper-based tools, developing strong time management skills is crucial for success at Cardinal Gibbons and beyond
ESE/Accommodations
If you have any questions about accommodations for the classroom or on standardized testing, please contact ese@cghsfl org
Student Schedules
Student class schedules will be emailed the week before school starts. Any schedule questions or changes should be directed to the students school counselor The deadline to request a schedule change is August 23rd
Mrs. Lauren Monaco Director of School Counseling & College Advising (954)491-2900 ext. 121 monaco@cghsfl.org
Mrs. Danelle DeGaeta
School Counselor 9-10th (A-L) (954) 491-2900 ext. 113 degaeta@cghsfl.org
Mr Fernando Rosero
School Counselor 9-10th (M-Z) (954) 491-2900 ext. 102 rosero@cghsfl.org
TBA
School Counselor 11-12th (A-L) (954) 491-2900 ext. 120
The first day of FHSAA fall tryouts is July 29, 2024. If your child wishes to participate in a fall sport, visit the Athletics page for more information. Please see the team page for specific sport information or contact the coach with any questions.
Please note that in order to participate in any of our athletic programs, you must be registered on Aktivate
Cheer Cross Country Dance Football Girls Volleyball Golf Swimming & Diving
2024 Annual Golf Tournament
Parents, please complete the required documents listed below before your child begins participating in any sport
Registration FHSAA EL2 Form (revised 4/24) 2024 Fall Tryout Information
Athletic Seasons
Fall Sports Start Date - July 29th, 2024
Winter Sports Tryout Date - October 2024 Spring Sports Tryout Date - January 2025
Contact the individual coaches regarding conditioning for Winter & Spring sports.
Golf Tournament
Register today to participate in the golf tournament or become a tournament sponsor by clicking on the golf ball.
OfficeofDevelopment
The Cardinal Gibbons Parent Association (CGPA) is essential in enhancing our school's mission and vision through active parent participation and fundraising. Becoming involved as a VIP (Very Important Parent) is a wonderful way to stay active in your child's student life and contribute to our Cardinal Gibbons family Here's how you can participate:
“Chiefs 101” Ambassador
Events: Auction
Events: Holidays
Events: Mailing Committee
Events: Silver Chiefs (Grandparents)
Events: Social
Teacher Appreciation
Trolley Dollies (Coffee Cart)
Single Day Projects
Each role offers a unique opportunity to have a direct impact on our community and have a meaningful difference in your child's' high school experience In addition to parent involvement, we are now offering ways for grandparents to come onto campus through our Silver Chiefs club, which encourages generational relationships through fun, as well as faith-based events
Volunteer today!
Click here to submit the online interest form
34th Annual Dinner Auction - March 29, 2025
Join us for the Cardinal Gibbons Dinner Auction, our most important annual fundraiser This event funds essential campus improvements and educational opportunities for our students and athletes We encourage all parents to save the date, donate an auction item, sponsor the event, or fill a table Your participation will make a lasting impact on the future of Cardinal Gibbons High School
Parking decals for the 2024-2025 school year will be distributed at the end of the Junior and Senior orientation sessions to approved students Note that parking spots do not carry over annually All student drivers must obtain and attach a new decal each year. Juniors and seniors wishing to join the waitlist for a parking space should email parking@cghsfl org
Student/Parent Handbook
Please review the Parent/Student Handbook for all school policies The Parent/Student Handbook and Acknowledgment Form will be emailed in July Print, sign, and return the Acknowledgment Form at the Student Orientation on either August 13 or August 14, 2024. Students who do not submit the form cannot attend classes on August 15.
Bus Transportation
We offer morning, afternoon, and Activity bus services Activity buses depart campus in the early evening, and serves students enrolled in extracurricular activities One-way and roundtrip routes are available Please click the following link to review the 24-25 bus routes and reserve your seat today.
Bus Transportation: https://www cghsfl org/gibbons-life/transportation
Dress Code and Personal Appearance
Students must adhere to dress regulations as detailed in the Parent/Student Handbook Noncompliance will result in consequences as outlined in the handbook This includes correct uniform, appropriate shorts length, no visible tattoos, adherence to the earring policy, proper hair length, and being clean-shaven. Habitual violations will lead to an administrative review. Thank you for your cooperation.
The Student/Parent Handbook will be emailed in July before Orientation Parents and students must read the handbook thoroughly to understand the expectations and policies of the school All handbook acknowledgement forms are due on the day of student orientation
OfficeofStudentAffairs
Student Drop Off & Pick Up
All parents who are dropping off a student should enter the Cardinal Gibbons Campus through the main gate, accessible from 47th Street
As you enter the student parking lot from 47th Street, please form two lines and follow the directions of the Campus Security team Please note that all parents must use the front gate only for pick-up and drop-off The rear gate located off Bayview Drive is reserved for one-way student use only.
Traffic in the surrounding area may potentially be heavy during the first few weeks of the school year due to the proximity of other local schools. Please plan accordingly as your child is still expected to be in their first period by 7:55 a m each morning, despite traffic conditions
The main parking lot gates are locked promptly at 8:00 am each morning In the event that your child is arriving late, you may drop them off in the circular driveway outside of Ott Hall Students must then proceed into the Office of Student Affairs, where they will be checked in and receive a late pass.
You will pass through a number of school zones during your commute Use caution while driving through the Coral Ridge neighborhood and obey all posted speed limits, both in and out of school zones.
Once the school day has ended, please enter campus through the front gate, and once again, form two lines We advise parents to notify their child of their arrival to avoid traffic jams in the parking lot. Students must be picked up and dropped off on campus only Do not pick up or drop off students in front of St John the Baptist Church or anywhere along 47th Street or Bayview Drive
We kindly ask that all parents and student drivers respect our neighbors and their property and refrain from parking on lawns or in open driveways
View drop off and pick up map online by clicking here Map
Mrs. Jennifer Perez Dean of Students/ESE Coordinator Student Affairs (954) 491-2900 ext. 124 jperez@cghsfl.org
Mr. Manuel Cespedes Dean of Students Student Affairs (954) 491-2900 ext. 105 cespedes@cghsfl.org
OfficeofStudentAffairs
Attendance
Students are expected to be in attendance every day of the school year as mandated by Florida Law Parents and guardians must take accountability to ensure that their child is in school and arrive on-time each and every day Absence from school is a serious interruption of the educational process.
Absences
Cardinal Gibbons, based on Florida Statute and the policies of the Archdiocese of Miami, allows 10 days of absences in a semester. Days absent are defined as full-days or halfdays
Half-day absences are defined as leaving school before 11:00 AM or arriving at school after 11:00 AM.
If a student is absent for more than ten (10) days in a given semester, no academic credit may be awarded per course
Once a student reaches seven (7) absences, parents may be required to meet with the administration and/or be placed on attendance probation Students chronically absent may be withdrawn from CGHS at the discretion of administration.
Attendance Line
Voice Recording only (954) 491-2900 ext 110 attendance@cghsfl.org
The following are considered excused absences with the proper documentation and will not count against the 10 days:
Any serious illness that requires medical care or hospitalization with doctors note
Death of a Family Member.
Chronic Illness with doctors note.
School activities such as school-sponsored field trips, school athletic contests, spirit days, etc
The following items count against the 10 day total and are unexcused absences:
Family vacations and family trips
Personal days/Skip Days
Visa Renewal or applications
DMV appointments
College visits (Beyond the allocated 2 days for juniors and seniors)
Other non-emergent appointments that need not interfere with school
Early Dismissals
If a student needs to be dismissed early for any reason, a parent must call or email the attendance line and leave a message at least two hours before the requested dismissal time Students will not be dismissed early once the final period has begun. Review the Parent/Student Handbook for specific information about dismissals.
AbsentReminderChecklist
Call the school attendance line and leave a message before 10:00 am (954) 491-2900 Ext 110 or email attendance@cghsfl org Only parents or guardians can make this call or email, not the student
Parents leaving a message on the office voicemail system must: state their child’s last name, first name, student ID, the reason for the absence, and a phone number where they may be reached
Mark your calendar and keep track of all absences
Make sure the total does not exceed the statemandated level of ten (10) in a given semester
Ask yourself: Does this absence qualify as an EXCUSED or UNEXCUSED absence?
Go to PlusPortals to obtain any missed assignments for excused absences. Communicate with your teachers
Prepare any medical documentation to submit to the Office of Student Affairs within 3 days
SchoolUniform
All students are expected to be in full uniform every day, unless otherwise specified Full uniform includes: an official Cardinal Gibbons red polo shirt; khaki or navy Cardinal Gibbons shorts or pants; and black/white Adidas sneakers, in the specified model and color
Please note that on Mass days, all students are required to wear the long uniform pants, so each student should own at least one pair of these Uniform shorts and pants can only be purchased at the Risse Brothers location in Deerfield Beach or the online store
On Fridays, students are permitted to wear club, athletic or spirit t-shirts instead of the uniform polo An assortment of spirit shirts can be purchased in the Campus Store
Additionally, students enrolled in Physical Education must wear the official Cardinal Gibbons PE uniform, which consists of a gray t-shirt and red gym shorts PE uniforms are available for purchase in the Campus Store This uniform is worn during Physical Education classes only. Students will be given time at the end of class to change back into school uniform to resume the day.
Students may also purchase official Cardinal Gibbons outerwear and sweaters to wear during the school day, but students must wear the Cardinal Gibbons polo underneath.
Please see our Campus Store for summer hours and online store.
For additional details regarding uniform policies, please reference the Parent/Student Handbook
Risse School Uniforms
386 SW 12th Avenue, Building #6 Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 (954) 360-7777 www.rissebrothers.com
Cardinal Gibbons Campus Store Building A Room 101 (954) 491-2900 ext. 191 Campusstore@cghsfl.org
ClassLink
We are excited to announce the launch of a new platform that will centralize all student textbooks accessible via ClassLink on student iPads Further details will be provided to students at the beginning of the school year
Technology
Parent Plus Portals
PlusPortals provides students and parents with access to information about upcoming assignments, current grades, attendance, and other day-to-day school information Parents will receive an email approximately the first week of school that contains instructions on how to set up a parent PlusPortals account. We encourage parents to check PlusPortals on a weekly basis.
Tech Tickets
For assistance with all technology related problems, please email techticket@cghsfl org In your email, please include the nature of your problem, your child's name and student number, as well as description of any error messages you may receive and a representative from our Technology Department will reach out to you as soon possible
TechnologyChecklist
Update the current iOS software
Check your emails
Activate your Plus Portals account. An email will be sent the week before school starts with a link to activate your account If you are a returning summer school student, you should have already activated your Plus Portals account.
Watch CGHS YouTube videos, for helpful tips to start the new school year CGHS Rules and Procedures 1
and Concept Map
SageDining
We are excited to welcome Sage Dining and encourage all our families to explore what's to come Learn about the nutritional options, manage allergies, and check the daily menu, which will become available before school starts, by visiting www sagedining com/sites/cardinalgibbonshighs chool/
Lunch Account
After thorough evaluation, we have decided to transition to a new Point of Sale (POS) payment system through a Sage Dining partner, MyKidSpending As we approach the new school year, we will notify families via email when it is time to register an account with MyKidSpending. At this moment, there is no action required.
For returning families, any remaining balance in your child's current POS account will seamlessly carry over In the interim, your child can use cash, credit card, or Apple Pay until we roll out the MyKidSpending information Detailed information about new payment options will be communicated via email as we approach the new school year and during the Back to School Orientation to ensure everyone is well-informed and ready.
Mr. Nick Tofini
Service Director
Student
2024-2025 Keep Track
Student ID/Network Username:
School/Network Password:
School Email Address:
School Email Password:
Apple ID:
Apple ID Password:
Naviance ID:
Naviance Password:
Advisor:
Parent
Parent Plus Portal Username:
Parent Plus Portal Password:
School Resources and Links
Cardinal Gibbons Directory
School Calendar
Student Activities, Clubs, SGA and more
CG Parent Association and Parent Hub
Tech Tickets
www cghsfl org/about/directory
www.cghsfl.org/gibbons-life/school-calendar
www.cghsfl.org/gibbons-life
https://www.cghsfl.org/gibbons-life/parents
www.cghsfl.org/gibbons-life/parents
For assistance with all technology related questions or problems, please email techticket@cghsfl.org. In your email, please include the nature of your problem, as well as description of any error messages you may receive and a representative from our Technology Department will reach out to you as soon possible.
Aug 13, Tues at 6:00pm Louise Crocco Gymnasium
New Student & Parent Orientation
Orientation for new families 9th Grade & Transfer Students and their parents
Aug 30, Fri at 5:00pm Baseball Field
New Parent Welcome Tailgate BBQ
SavetheDate
Aug 14, Wed at 9:00am
Senior Moms
Brunch
Mom/guardian of the Class of 2025 RSVP and ticket required
Sept 24, Tues at 6:00pm Louise Crocco Gymnasium
Auction Kickoff
Bingo Night
Aug. 27, Tues. at 6:00pm Louise Crocco Gymnasium
Back to School Night for 9th Grade
Parents only
Aug. 28, Wed. at 6:00pm Louise Crocco Gymnasium
Back to School Night for 10th - 12th Grades
Parents only
Oct 11, Fri Palm Aire Country Club
Annual Golf
Tournament
Welcome to a new school year All NEW parents are invited RSVP required Presented by Athletics
Oct 18, Fri at 5:30pm Softball field
Alumni
Homecoming Tailgate
Presented by the Alumni RSVP and ticket purchase required
Jan 30, Tues at 4:00pm Chapel of the Holy Family
Grandparents
Mass
Silver Chiefs Mass and reception RSVP required
Presented by CGPA Auction Committee RSVP required
Oct 26, Sat Louise Crocco Gymnasium
Open House
Dec 10, Tues at 9:00am Louise Crocco Gymnasium
Silver Chiefs Blessings and Bingo
Open House for prospective families
Presented by Admissions RSVP required
Mar 29, Sat Louise Crocco Gymnasium
34th
Annual Dinner Auction
Presented by CGPA RSVP required
Silver Chiefs invited RSVP and ticket purchase required
Apr 29, Tues at 9:00am Dr Bud Tight Field
Silver Chiefs Health & Fitness Day
Silver Chiefs invited RSVP required
Welcome page 17
AUGUST
Aug. 13, Tuesday
Aug. 14, Wednesday
2024-2025 School Year
Dates listed are subject to change. Please refer to the calendar on the website for updates.
First Day of School. 10th & 11th Student Orientations (No School for 9th & 12th)
New Student & Parent Orientation 6:00pm (9th Grade & Transfer Students)
Freshman Day; 12th Student Orientation; Freshman/Senior Day Picnic (No School for 10th & 11th)
Senior Moms Breakfast. RSVP required. 9:00am
Aug. 15, Thursday All School Mass - Feast of the Assumption
Aug. 16, Friday Deadline for Senior Portraits
Aug. 23, Friday Student Schedule Changes Deadline
Aug. 26-30, Monday-Friday Welcome Week
Aug. 27, Tuesday 9th Grade Back to School Night (Parents Only) 6:00pm
Aug. 28, Wednesday Club Day During F Block 10th - 12th Grades Back to School Night (Parents Only) 6:00pm
Aug. 30, Friday
SEPTEMBER
Sept. 2, Monday
Sept. 5, Thursday
Sept. 6, Friday
New Parent Welcome Tailgate BBQ (Parents Only) RSVP required 5:00pm
Labor Day - No Classes/School Closed
Happy 63rd Birthday Cardinal Gibbons High School
Early Dismissal 1:10pm
Sept. 11, Wednesday All School Mass
Sept. 12, Thursday
Sept. 13, Friday
Yearbook Photo Retake Day, Senior Parent Night 6:00pm
Quarter 1 Interims Released
Sept. 18, Wednesday Freshman Retreat; James Cardinal Gibbons Society Donor Recognition Event
Sept. 24, Tuesday
Sept. 27, Friday
OCTOBER
Annual Auction Kickoff Bingo Night 6:00pm
Professional Development Day - No Classes for Students
Oct. 1-2, Tuesday-Wednesday Confessions
Oct. 4, Friday Early Dismissal 1:10pm
Oct. 7, Monday All School Mass - Our Lady of the Rosary
Oct. 9, Wednesday PSAT Day for 9th - 11th Grade students. No School for Seniors.
Freshman dress up as a baby, while the seniors dress up as grandparents. Sophomores and Juniors show your school spirit and wear red and white. DecadeDay Represent your decade!
EVENTS FOR THE WEEK:
Senior Step-Up - 8/26 @ 6AM
Club Day - 8/28
Pep Rally - 8/30
Volleyball Game - TBA
Football Game - 8/30 @ 7PM
THURSDAY, AUGUST 29TH:
DynamicDuoDay
Pick a famous group or duo to dress up as with your friends!
ALL WEEK:
SHORTS MUST BE CATHOLIC SCHOOL APPROPRIATE IN LENGTH (FINGERTIP RULE)
