The Panther Parent The 2013-14 Guide for St. Pius X High School Parents
Table of Contents Staff Listing........................................... 2 Department Listing Email Address Telephone Faculty Listing........................................ 3 Alphabetical Listing Email Address Telephone Climate of Character.............................. 4 General Information................................ 5 Absences Announcements Anticipated Absences Books Bring Your Own Device Building Open Carpooling Emergency School Closing Financial Aid Financial Commitments Liturgies Meals Permission Slips General Information (continued)............ 6 Personal Audio-Visual Devices School Calendar School Pictures School Times Senior Pictures Student Parking Student Transportation Uniforms Yearbooks Celebrate the Arts.................................. 6 Band/Campus Singers/Choir Theatre SPX TAPPS Art/Academic/Music Competitions Help for Students.................................... 7 Counseling Office Peer Helpers Tutoring Progress Reports Grades College & Career Preparation............... 7 PSAT, PLAN, ACT/SAT
Expanding Student Horizons.................. 7 Office for Campus Ministry Retreats School Events......................................... 8 Academic Rally Homecoming Project Prom School Dances Senior Prom Honoring Achievements......................... 8 Veritas Ring Ceremony National Honor Society Senior Awards Sports Awards Underclass Awards Athletics.................................................. 9 Eligibility Cheerleaders Pantherettes Letter Jackets Managers and Scorekeepers Practice Times Sports Uniforms Summer Camps Weight Room Fall Sports & Winter Sports................. 10 Spring Sports........................................ 11 Student Clubs & Organizations............ 11 Advancement........................................ 12 Advancing the Mission Annual Giving Programs Annual Gala Enrollment Set the World Ablaze Other Support Parent Involvement............................... 13 Parent Association Booster Club Meet the Teachers Parent Association Calendar................ 15 Reference Sources............................... 15 Alcohol EDU Drug Testing Policy Anti-Bullying Initiative
St. Pius X High School Staff Administration Jeff Donaruma - Dean of Students/English Diane Larsen - Academic Dean Allan Minar - Finance Director Joseph Noonan - Facilities Director Sister Donna M. Pollard, O.P. - Head of School Mary Linda Portner- Director of Advancement
Email Phone donarumaj@stpiusx.org 713.579.7503 larsend@stpiusx.org 713.579.7504 minara@stpiusx.org 713.579.7508 noonanj@stpiusx.org 713.579.7536 pollardd@stpiusx.org 713.579.7555 portnerml@stpiusx.org 713.579.7512
Admissions Office Susie Kramer - Director of Admissions Eva Dix ‘04 - Admissions Assistant
kramers@stpiusx.org 713.579.7507 dixe@stpiusx.org 713.579.7502
Advancement Office Alumni Director 713.579.7513 Cathy Pawlowski - Director of Events pawlowskic@stpiusx.org 713.579.7515 Lauren Lucas Power ‘05 - Annual Fund Director powerl@stpiusx.org 713.579.7546 Deanna Werner - Director of Communications wernerd@stpiusx.org 713.579.7514 Jerry Yeager - Advancement Assistant yeagerj@stpiusx.org 713.579.7511 Business Office David Hock - Business Manager Denise Hyland - Business Office Assistant
hockd@stpiusx.org 713.579.7509 hylandd@stpiusx.org 713.579.7510
Counseling Office Jennifer Boyles - Counselor, Department Chair Yvonne Clark - Counselor/Psychology Sharon Salerno - Counselors’ Administrative Assistant Christian Zela - Counselor Justin Matias - Director of College Counseling
boylesj@stpiusx.org 713.579.7521 clarky@stpiusx.org 713.579.7579 salernos@stpiusx.org 713.579.7519 zelac@stpiusx.org 713.579.7522 matiasj@stpiusx.org 713.579.7520
Deans Jerry Hornsby - Associate Dean of Students/Social Studies Marc Martinez - Associate Academic Dean Jason Novak - Associate Dean of Students/Social Studies
hornsbyj@stpiusx.org 713.579.7540 martinezm@stpiusx.org 713.579.7582 novakj@stpiusx.org 713.579.7563
Office for Campus Ministry Claudia Somerville - Assistant Director somervillec@stpiusx.org 713.579.7523 Patrick Spedale - Director of the Office for Campus Ministry spedalep@stpiusx.org 713.579.7525 Maintenance & Engineering Department Lee Graeter - Head of Maintenance and Engineering Eric Jackson - Facilities/Maintenance Tom McGee ‘84 - Athletic Groundskeeper Denise Meschwitz Lloyd ’84 - Facilities Coordinator
graeterl@stpiusx.org 713.579.7535 jacksone@stpiusx.org 713.579.7537 mcgeet@stpiusx.org 713.692.3581 lloydd@stpiusx.org 713.579.7585
Staff Pat Roznowski Budnick ‘68 - Receptionist Cindy Flores ‘80 - Registrar Jo McBride - Attendance Administrative Assistant Mary Moratto ‘70 - Assistant to the Head of School
budnickp@stpiusx.org 713.692.3581 floresc@stpiusx.org 713.579.7506 mcbridej@stpiusx.org 713.579.7505 morattom@stpiusx.org 713.579.7555
Technology Department David Cusimano - Network Assistant Patrick Flannery - Network Administrator Linda Harvey - Computer Lab Manager Simon Keating - Database Manager
cusimanod@stpiusx.org 713.579.7501 flanneryp@stpiusx.org 713.579.7528 harveyl@stpiusx.org 713.579.7501 keatings@stpiusx.org 713.579.7528
Athletics Department (full-time)
Jason Kimball - Athletic Director Diane Shore - Health Coordinator/Athletic Trainer Erin Van Wassenhove - Assistant Athletic Director Blake Ware - Head Football Coach/Social Studies
kimballj@stpiusx.org 713.579.7530 shored@stpiusx.org 713.579.7578 vanwassenhovee@stpiusx.org 713.579.7533 wareb@stpiusx.org 713.579.7532
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St. Pius X High School Faculty Faculty (alphabetically by last name) Email Kathryn Anderson ‘08 - English andersonk@stpiusx.org Cristina Arriaga - Foreign Language/Social Studies arriagac@stpiusx.org Elaine Lebeuf Atherton ‘99 - English athertone@stpiusx.org Georgianne Beissner ’87 - Fine Arts, Department Co-Chair beissnerg@stpiusx.org Heidi Bollich - Theology bollichh@stpiusx.org Sarah Bradshaw - Learning Specialist, Head Girls Soccer Coach bradshaws@stpiusx.org Michelle Broussard - Mathematics broussardm@stpiusx.org Chip Burgin - Social Studies burginh@stpiusx.org Russell Carr - Mathematics/Head Boys Basketball Coach carrr@stpiusx.org Jennifer Curl - Learning for Success Coordinator curlj@stpiusx.org David Cusimano - Computer Science/Web Design/Network Administrator cusimanod@stpiusx.org Judith Cusimano - English, Department Co-Chair cusimanoj@stpiusx.org Trudie Dattilo - English/TAPPS Academics dattilot@stpiusx.org Mike Dillon - Mathematics dillonm@stpiusx.org Trisha Dunn - Science dunnt@stpiusx.org Gillian Erdmann - Mathematics erdmanng@stpiusx.org Page 3 Mary Gagne - English, Department Co-Chair gagnem@stpiusx.org 2012-13 Panther Parent Paul Gagne - Theology, Department Co-Chair gagnep@stpiusx.org Jeff Galligan - Social Studies galliganj@stpiusx.org Marge Harris - Mathematics, Department Co-Chair/TAPPS Academics harrism@stpiusx.org Stagecraft and Technical Theatre Alida Harville ’88 - Fine Arts, Department Co-Chair/TAPPS Art harvillea@stpiusx.org Greg Henderson - Theology hendersong@stpiusx.org Kim Holik ’91 - Science holikk@stpiusx.org Mildred Johnson ‘77 - Science/TAPPS Academics johnsonm@stpiusx.org John Kaylor - Foreign Language, Department Chair kaylorj@stpiusx.org Raju Kurian - Science kurianr@stpiusx.org Darrell Lockridge - Mathematics lockridged@stpiusx.org Adam Massiatte ‘01- Health/PE/Head Baseball Coach massiattea@stpiusx.org Pamela McLeod - English mcleodp@stpiusx.org Colleen McGee - Mathematics mcgeec@stpiusx.org Conchita Barquin-Moreno - Spanish barquinmoreno@stpiusx.org Deborah Mosichuk - Library Media Specialist mosichukd@stpiusx.org Miguel Perez - Foreign Language perezm@stpiusx.org Noemy Perez - Science perezn@stpiusx.org Charlis Powell - Learning Center Director powellc@stpiusx.org Bridgette Schattle ’69 - Social Studies schattleb@stpiusx.org Cindi Sirois - Science siroisc@stpiusx.org Claudia Somerville - Theology somervillec@stpiusx.org Patrick Spedale - Campus Singers spedalep@stpiusx.org Angela Stinner-Trimble - Theology stinnertrimblea@stpiusx.org Debbie Swindler - Band swindlerd@stpiusx.org Victor Takacs - Social Studies takacsv@stpiusx.org Carolyn Taylor - Communications/TAPPS Speech/Social Studies taylorc@stpiusx.org Laurie Thompson - Theology thompsonl@stpiusx.org Erin Van Wassenhove - Business/Health/PE/Athletics vanwassenhovee@stpiusx.org Blake Ware - Social Studies/Head Football Coach wareb@stpiusx.org Gary West - Social Studies, Department Chair westg@stpiusx.org Susan K. West ’69 - Archivist wests@stpiusx.org Tim Wood - Latin/English woodt@stpiusx.org
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Phone 713.579.7559 713.579.7539 713.579.7584 713.579.7529 713.579.7549 713.579.7527 713.579.7550 713.579.7542 713.579.7581 713.579.7516 713.579.7501 713.579.7546 713.579.7568 713.579.7558 713.579.7565 713.579.7567 713.579.7547 713.579.7548 713.579.7524 713.579.7551 713.579.7583 713.579.7554 713.579.7534 713.579.7552 713.579.7564 713.579.7557 713.579.7544 713.579.7545 713.579.7531 713.579.7543 713.579.7561 713.579.7541 713.579.7518 713.579.7560 713.579.7580 713.579.7577 713.579.7538 713.579.7566 713.579.7523 713.579.7525 713.579.7569 713.579.7517 713.579.7556 713.579.7562 713.579.7533 713.579.7532 713.579.7570 713.579.7571 713.579.7572
2013-14 Panther Parent
Climate of Character The Climate of Character was developed under the Positive School Climate Initiative (PSCI) program that engages the entire School community. Students, faculty, staff and administration participate in all activities relating to PSCI. Between 8-10 PSCI sessions take place during the 2013-14 school year and explore the ways in which the community relates to and engages one another. It is our belief that RESPECT is the core value behind building character within the Four Pillars of a Dominican education.
Respect through Language and Communication Student to Adult • We positively greet adults and refer to adults by their correct titles (e.g., Mr., Mrs., Dr., Sister). • We use correct grammar and appropriate tone and volume in written and spoken communications. • We use common courtesy phrases such as excuse me, please and thank you. • We listen quietly, attentively and considerately, and allow others to speak without interruption. • We build positive relationships with teachers and staff. • We address concerns with the appropriate person. Student to Student • We demonstrate School spirit and Panther Pride. • We support a culture and climate of academic achievement. • We recognize and celebrate the positive behaviors and accomplishments of others. • We use respectful, appropriate language; we speak to others in a positive manner and avoid gossip. • We address concerns with the appropriate individual. • We respect our personal space and that of others. • We use conflict resolution techniques to avoid confrontation.
Respect through Accountability and Self-Discipline Support of School Policies • We know and support the School mission and policies, and we accept consequences. • We know why we are here and we do what we commit to do. Personal Appearance and Conduct • Our personal appearance is always clean, modest and appropriate; we follow the School dress code. • We respect ourselves and others and avoid PDA and inappropriate touching. • We practice good manners; we are quiet during prayer and pledge; we use good table manners. Support of a Learning Environment • We work to excel in academics; we are prepared with materials and homework. • We are timely and punctual for classes, tutorials and appointments. • We are accountable for what we see and hear, as well as what we do. • We recognize and respect differences.
Respect through Stewardship School and Community Property • We respect School property and the property of others; we maintain clean classrooms, hallways and other public places, restrooms and School grounds. • We do our part to maintain a clean campus. Personal Property • We respect and care for our own and others’ property. Stewardship and Recycling • We use the School recycle procedures for paper and plastic. • We conserve the use of paper, water, electricity and supplies. • We encourage one another to reduce, reuse and recycle.
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General Information Absences
Parents/guardians of absent students should notify the Attendance Administrative Assistant Jo McBride between 7-9 a.m. in the event of a student’s absence; otherwise, parents will be called. A note, signed by the parent/guardian, stating the date and reason for the absence must be presented to the dean of students or the attendance office on the day the student returns. Failure to bring a note will result in disciplinary action. If the absence is unexcused, two points will be subtracted from the quarterly average of all classes in which the student is enrolled.
Announcements
Students receive information about school schedules, activities, free dress, club meetings, etc. during the announcements in homeroom period and at the end of the school day before they are dismissed from seventh period.
Anticipated Absences
3 must If a student anticipates absence from school,Page he/she bring a note, signed by a parent/guardian at2012-13 least 2-3Panther days prior to the anticipated absence. The note should be brought to the dean of students or the attendance office by 8 a.m. The student will receive a form for all subject teachers to sign and to write assignments to make up for the day’s absence. If a note is not brought in prior to the absence, the student will receive an unexcused absence and the penalties which go with that. If a student must leave campus for any reason, he/she must present a note to the school office stating the reason for the departure and signed by his/her parent/guardian. If the note is not brought in by 8 a.m., the student will not have an early dismissal. At the departure time, the student will sign out at the attendance office. If he/she is returning to school the same day, he/she is to report to the attendance office and sign in with the time of return. Reminder: Students who are returning from the doctor or dentist must bring a note from that office specifying they were there during the time out of school.
Books
Books may be purchased online at www.myschoolbookstore.com. Book lists, including summer reading lists, are posted on the website. Teachers give students school supply lists during class on the first day of school.
Bring Your Own Device
The Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program allows students to utilize their personal technology (iPads, KindleFires, laptops, smart phones, notebooks, etc.) within the context of approved curriculum in supervised classrooms. Devices may be used in the classrooms only when permitted by the teacher. They may not be used during passing periods, but may be used during lunchtime and homeroom (at the discretion of the homeroom teacher). Students will receive consequences from the Dean of Students, Jeff Donaruma for misusing a device. See the Student Handbook for more information.
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Building Open
The school building is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Students must be out of the building by 6 p.m., unless they are participating in an organized school activity. Students who arrive at School before 7:45 a.m. must report to the Frost Cafeteria for breakfast. The Bramanti Library is open for student use from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Thursday, and 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday. A security officer is on duty from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
Carpooling
Carpool information, listed by zip code, is available from Cindy Flores ‘80, 713.579.7506.
Emergency School Closing
St. Pius X follows Houston Independent School District (HISD) emergency closings.
Financial Aid Parent
Financial Aid is administered by the School Board Financial Aid Committee. Financial Aid packets are available online after January 1. Applications for current students are due in mid-February for the following school year. Notification of Financial Aid awards are made in March.
Financial Commitments
Students must be current with all fees and tuition for each semester before exams will be administered.
Liturgies
All-school liturgies, including prayer services, are scheduled throughout the year. Dress uniform is required on these days. Parents/guardians are welcome to attend.
Meals
The School has one 45-minute lunch period for all students. Students may buy lunch or bring it from home. Debit cards for lunches may be purchased from the cafeteria. Breakfast is also available from 7:15-7:45 a.m. Students may not have lunch delivered to the School by a delivery person.
Permission Slips
Students wishing to leave campus for a school function must have a permission slip signed by his/her parent/ guardian. Permission slips are required for each field trip. Athletes sign one permission slip per sport.
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General Information Personal Audio-Visual Devices
Please see information regarding Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) (page 5).
School Calendar
The school calendar is available monthly on the website at stpiusx.org/calendar. Login to the website for access to the full SPX calendar.
School Pictures
Pictures are taken at School during the first quarter of the year. All students receive a school I.D. card.
School Times
St. Pius X follows one of seven schedules during the year. Daily schedules are posted on the school website at stpiusx.org/calendar, and are available at the receptionist’s desk. Regular schedule school days begin with the first bell at 7:55 a.m. and dismissal at 3 p.m.
Senior Pictures
St. Pius X uses one photographer for all senior pictures. Senior photos are taken the summer before senior year. A formal picture, with the official St. Pius X photographer, is required for the yearbook. Students may opt to take other poses.
Student Parking
Two lots are available for student parking during the school day. Reserved spaces are available in the main parking lot in front of the stadium and student entrance at a cost of $190 for the 2013-14 school year. Secure parking is also available in the lot adjacent to the softball field at a cost of $150 for the 2013-14 school year. Students are encouraged to use the secure parking available to them. Street parking is not secure and cars parked illegally on West Donovan will be towed without warning. Please note that the Circle Drive is for visitor parking only and not for drop-offs. Students should only be dropped off and picked up using the new roadway accessed via Brinkman Street. Overflow visitor and volunteer parking is available in the parking lot across the street from the School on Donovan.
Student Transportation
St. Pius X provides student transportation for school activities for its students. The School owns one 28-passenger bus, one 22-passenger bus, and an 11-passenger van. At times, coach buses and minivans are rented for transportation. Drivers for the buses are required to have a C driver’s license. All drivers have passed Texas Department of Safety minimum requirements.
Uniforms
(See the Student Handbook for details) Dress uniform is required of all students on certain days as indicated on the school calendar. Students not in compliance will receive a demerit and are sent home. Students must remain in dress uniform all day. Free dress is a privilege given to students for particular achievements. Students should follow the guidelines listed in the Student Handbook for what is appropriate on free dress days. Students in physical education (P.E.) classes must wear P.E. uniforms.
Yearbooks
The Del Sarto yearbook is available in the fall. The cost of one yearbook is covered by tuition.
Celebrate the Arts Band/Campus Singers/Choir
Students may participate in music at St. Pius X in a variety of ways. Members of both the Choir and the Band earn academic credit. Chorus I-IV classes meet at 7 a.m. Monday through Friday. The Concert Chorale, the combined talents of the Campus Singers and members of the Chorus, serves in music ministry at school liturgies and special events and offers a variety of classical and pop performances, both on and off campus, throughout the year. Selection for the Campus Singers is by audition only and is open to grades 10-12. The St. Pius X Band performs at home football games and in concerts throughout the year. St. Pius X supplies some musical instruments; often, students provide their own.
Theatre SPX
Theatre SPX will stage four drama productions this school year. Students audition for parts in the plays, orchestra, chorus and stage crew. The Stagecraft classes produce the sets for the shows. Students are encouraged to participate in the productions, whether as a member of the cast or crew, or as an audience member. Show times are announced on the calendar on the website.
TAPPS Arts/Music/Academic Competition Teams
Students may apply to be members of the Arts/Music/Academic teams and represent St. Pius X in TAPPS (Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools) competitions. Team members also are recommended by their teachers. Competition categories are Languages, Mathematics, Painting, Photography, Drawing, Science, History, Speech, Drama, Vocal and Instrumental Music and more. St. Pius X has a winning tradition in these competitions. Students are encouraged to participate in all levels of competition and in many areas of study.
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Help for Students
College & Career Preparation
Counseling Office
It is the policy of St. Pius X to assign each student to the same counselor for all four years of high school. This personal insight of each student enables counselors to better assist the students with post-high school choices. Counselors work with parents and students on course choices, academic progress and adolescent issues, which might arise. The Counseling Office is always available for students. An additional college counselor will be available to ease the college admission and scholarship process.
Peer Helpers
The School offers a Peer Counselor group two Thursdays each month during lunch. Students can discuss current issues with their peers in a non-threatening, supervised environment. There is no charge to be a member of the group and attendance is optional.
Tutoring
Sophomores and juniors take the PSAT test on October 16. This exam is particularly important for juniors, as it is the basis for National Merit Scholarship consideration.
PLAN
Sophomores take the PLAN exam, a practice test for the ACT college-entrance exam. It will be given to all sophomores on November 20.
ACT/SAT
College Entrance Exams are administered throughout the city at various times during the year. SPX is a test site for the September, December, February, and June ACT tests. Counselors advise students as to which exams are appropriate for their plans.
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The National Honor Society offers free tutoring in all subjects. Students must sign up ahead of time with Gary and Susi West ’69, NHS sponsors. All teachers also offer tutorials. Tutorial schedules are posted on the website. Students experiencing difficulties may take advantage of this offering. Teachers generally announce additional test or exam tutorials during class.
Progress Reports
A progress report may be accessed on NetSPX for parents and guardians at the middle of all quarters of the academic year. Ongoing access to student grades is also available throughout the year through NetSPX. Parent-teacher conferences are held on September 17, 2013, and February 11, 2014.
Grades
Report cards are available online at the end of each quarter. Additionally, a report card will be mailed at the end of the each semester to parents/guardians. Students can achieve honor roll status at two levels: Honor Roll, with a semester Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.3 to 3.9; and Head of School’s Honor Roll, with a semester GPA of 4.0 or better. The St. Pius X school year is divided into two semesters with each semester divided into two quarters. Student numerical grades are issued at the end of each quarter. Semester grades appear on transcripts and permanent records and are used to determine Grade Point Average (GPA). Semester exam schedules are posted on the website. Please remember to arrange for student transportation on exam days.
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PSAT
Expanding Student Horizons Office for Campus Ministry
Campus Ministry, integral to the mission of St. Pius X High School, witnesses to the School’s philosophy that spiritual development is as valuable as academic education. By its very nature, the mission of Campus Ministry at St. Pius X embodies a commitment to youth, Catholic education, our Dominican heritage and traditions, the Church and the community. In the exercise of Campus Ministry, four dimensions of activity emerge as essential to the integrity, identity and mission: pastoral care; spiritual life; liturgical ministries and services; and social justice awareness, education and outreach. The presence of a full-time campus minister as minister, individual, pastoral presence, professional and teacher renders service to the entire school faith community, including students, faculty, staff, administrators, parents/ guardians, alumni, benefactors and their collective families.
Retreats
All students are required annually to attend a retreat as part of the theology curriculum. The freshmen and sophomore retreats are one-day, while the junior and senior retreats are overnight. Class retreat dates are posted on the website.
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School Events Academic Rally
St. Pius X hosts the Middle School Academic Rally. Preliminary rounds are held in mid-January with final rounds on January 11. Middle school students from all of metropolitan Houston attend. The event is sponsored by the National Honor Society. Many ninth graders volunteer to help with the event.
Homecoming
Homecoming Week begins September 23. Each year, Student Council selects a theme for the week and plans activities pitting classes against each other to raise school spirit to new highs. Seniors are nominated for Homecoming Queen and King by popular vote of the senior class; the top girls and boys are named to the Homecoming Court. During Homecoming Week, the entire student body votes on the Queen and King. The Booster Club hosts a Homecoming dance primarily for current students. Dress is semi-formal. Mums and garters are worn at School on the Friday of Homecoming Week. That day, students also may wear their Homecoming shirts, which may be purchased from Student Council. The site of the dance and the cost of tickets will be announced in September. Please check the School website for the most current information.
Project Prom
Project Prom is a safe, adult-supervised, drug and alcoholfree party sponsored by St. Pius X High School. The goal is to involve parents in a formal program to keep their children safe during the hours of midnight and 6 a.m. after Prom. Students will enjoy refreshments, entertainment and will have the chance to win great prizes they may want to take to college.
School Dances
Campus organizations sponsor various dances throughout the year, from a back-to-school dance in August to the Senior Prom in April. School dances are for St. Pius X students and their guests only. Students may be allowed one guest if permission is received from the Dean of Students at least one week prior to the dance.
Honoring Achievements Veritas Ring Ceremony
The Junior Veritas Ring ceremony will be held on May 4. The ceremony, at which juniors receive their class rings, is incorporated into Mass and marks the point at which juniors formally take on the responsibility of being leaders of the School. Refreshments are served after the event (coat-andtie/church-dress attire). Rings are available for purchase in November of the junior year from a vendor approved by the St. Pius X administration. Only the St. Pius X class ring is presented during the Liturgy.
National Honor Society
In the spring, the National Honor Society (NHS) initiates its new members. Students are “tapped� or selected and then are formally inducted into NHS during the Induction Ceremony on April 29. Parents/guardians are welcome to attend.
Senior Awards
Senior Awards Day is May 23. Seniors, their families and the entire St. Pius X student body attend the event, which is held in the Herzstein Gym. Underclassmen wear dress uniform, and seniors wear cap and gown. A reception hosted by the Parent Association is held afterwards for graduates and their families.
Sports Awards
Athletic awards are given three times a year. Athletes from sports recently concluded assemble, and awards are given in each sport. The Booster Club sponsors an awards dinner for participating athletes before each ceremony. Parents/ guardians are welcome to attend the dinner for a nominal charge. Contact the Booster Club to assist with these events.
Underclass Awards
Underclass Awards are given prior to spring/semester exams in an all-school assembly on May 19. Recognition is given for honor roll and in each course for academic accomplishment. Parents/guardians are welcome to attend. This is a dress uniform day for students.
Senior Prom
Senior Prom, a formal dance, will be held on April 25. Guests of St. Pius X students must be cleared with the Dean of Students at least one week before the dance.
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Athletics Eligibility
Students must be academically eligible to participate in athletics (see Student Handbook for rules of eligibility). In addition, athletic fees must be paid, permission slips must be signed and students’ health records must be current. Students must also be in good disciplinary standing to participate.
Cheerleaders
The coach is Gloria Kimball. Tryouts are held in April each year. Junior varsity and varsity squads are chosen by a panel of outside judges. Cheerleaders perform at pep rallies and home football, basketball and volleyball games and outside competitions.
Managers and Scorekeepers
Each varsity team has managers and scorekeepers, who travel with the team. Managers/scorekeepers are selected by the coaches.
Practice Times
Normal practice time for most sports is 3:30 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Some sports practice before school.
Sports Uniforms
St. Pius X provides uniforms, except shoes, gloves and extras, for all sports. (Girls sometimes must provide their own shorts.) Other equipment is often required. Students are charged an athletic fee when selected for a team and listed on the roster at the first game for the remainder of the Pantherettes season. The athletic fee for football is $100 and $75 for all The team director is Benee Thomas-Jones. Page The 3 Pantherother sports. The fee must be paid prior to a student’s parettes are the St. Pius X drill and dance team. Tryouts are ticipation in that sport. 2012-13 Panther Parent in April and are open to all grade levels, including freshmen. The team is chosen by a panel of outside judges. The Summer Camps Pantherettes perform at pep rallies and home football and Summer camps are posted on the website. Usually, stubasketball games. dents receive letters at home announcing summer sched-
Letter Jackets
Letter jackets are supplied to athletes by the Booster Club for those students who have played two varsity sports for a minimum of two consecutive years or one sport for three years.
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ules.
Weight Room
The weight room is available at scheduled times before and after school. The weight room is always supervised. Contact Athletic Director Jason Kimball for the times.
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Fall Sports
Football
Coach: Blake Ware Freshmen, JV, and Varsity Teams Practice begins - Early August Competition ends - November Practice location - St. Pius X football field Games - Freshmen/JV - Thursday Varsity - Friday or Saturday
Volleyball
Coach: Preston Smith Tryouts - Early August Practice begins - Early August Competition ends - November Practice location - St. Pius X gym Competitions - Two games a week plus some tournament play Approximately 14 girls per team are selected.
Cross Country
Coach: Erin Van Wassenhove Any student is eligible. Practice begins - Early August Competition ends Late October/Early November Practice location - St. Pius X and surrounding neighborhood Competitions - Friday afternoons, Saturday mornings
Winter Sports Soccer
Coaches: Boys - Jason Novak Girls - Sarah Bradshaw Boys and Girls varsity soccer teams have approximately 20 players each. Practice begins - Early October Competition ends - Early February Practice location - St. Pius X football field Competitions - Two games a week plus weekend tournaments
Basketball
Coaches: Boys - Russell Carr Girls - Fernando Villasana Tryouts - October (Freshmen, JV and Varsity Teams) Practice begins - Late October Competition ends - February Practice location - St. Pius X gyms Competitions - Two games a week plus weekend tournaments
Swimming
Coach: Richard Butler Tryouts - January Practice begins in January (practice is before school) Competition ends - March Competitions - Meets on weekends
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Spring Sports Golf
Baseball
Tennis
Softball
Coach: Jim Hardy Tryouts - February (Boys and Girls Teams) Practice begins - March Competition ends - May Practice location - Area golf courses Competition - Tournaments are held on school days.
Coach: Hernan Guerva Tryouts - February Practice begins - February Competition ends - April Competition - Matches are during the week and weekend tournaments.
Track and Field
Coach: TBD Page 3 Tryouts - late January (Varsity only) 2012-13 Practice begins - February Competition ends - April or May Practice locations - St. Pius X campus and surrounding neighborhood
Coach: Adam Massiatte ‘01 Tryouts - Sophomore, JV and Varsity teams Practice begins - February Competition ends - May Practice location - St. Pius X baseball field Competitions - Two games a week and weekend tournaments
Coach: Nellie Kelly Tryouts - February (JV and Varsity teams) Practice begins - February Competition ends - May Practice location - St. Pius X softball field Competitions - Two games a week and weekend tournaments
Rugby
Boys Coach: Lowell Locke
Panther Parent Girls Coach: Leslie Taft-Pauls
Tryouts - late January (Boys and Girls) Practice begins - late January Competition ends - April or May Practice locations - St. Pius X campus
Student Clubs, Organizations & Ministries Please consult the student handbook for additional information on clubs and organizations. Students are encouraged to actively participate in School organizations. Most organizations meet monthly or bi-monthly, at lunchtime or just after school. Before joining a club, students should decide if they are able to fulfill club membership requirements. Listed below are St. Pius X clubs and their faculty sponsors. Anime Club: Mildred Johnson ‘77 Art Club: Alida Harville ’88 Band: Debbie Swindler w Black History Club: Eva Dix ‘08 and Jason Hornsby Concert Chorale: Patrick Spedale w Campus Singers: Patrick Spedale w Cheerleaders: Gloria Kimball Close Up: Victor Takacs Del Sarto Yearbook: Georgi Beissner ’87 w French/Italian Club: Cristina Arriaga Girls Rugby Club: Leslie Pauls History Club: Jeff Galligan Honor Board: Chip Burgin and Judy Cusimano International Club: Gillian Erdmann International Thespian Society: Jeff Galligan JCDA: Angela Stinner-Trimble, Denise Lloyd and Michelle Broussard Latin Club: Tim Wood Liturgical Ministry: Patrick Spedale wCo-Curricular Credit
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National Honor Society: Susi ’69 and Gary West and Elaine Atherton ‘99 Pageturners: Deborah Mosichuk Peer Helpers: Jennifer Boyles Preaching Team: Patrick Spedale Robotics: Trisha Dunn Retreat Ministry: Patrick Spedale Science Club: Trisha Dunn Spanish Club: Conchita Barquin-Moreno Student Cabinet: Laurie Thompson Student Council: Alida Harville ’88 and Kim Holik ‘91 Theatre SPX: Jeff Galligan TAPPS Teams:v Academic: Trudie Dattilo and Mildred Johnson ‘77 Art: Alida Harville ’88 Speech: Carolyn Taylor Video Game Club: Mildred Johnson Dr. Who Club: Mildred Johnson Writer’s Club/Literary Magazine: Michelle Broussard
Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools
2013-14 Panther Parent
Advancement How Can I Advance the Mission of St. Pius X High School? When the Dominican Sisters of Houston founded St. Pius X High School in 1956, it was with the goal of providing an affordable Catholic education in the Dominican tradition to the young women and men of Northwest Houston. Today, while the demographics of the School have changed, and it now mirrors the face of the city, the mission remains the same: Prayer, Study, Community, Preaching - this is Dominican education at St. Pius X High School. Inspired by Veritas, young men and women embrace academic excellence and integ-
rity, celebrate the community’s diverse gifts and heritage and embody social justice and service. The School Board seeks to balance reasonable tuition charges with the costs necessary to retain an outstanding faculty and to implement the programs which make the School unique. The resources for other necessities, such as capital improvements and expanded programs, come from other sources. Here are ways in which you can help augment these additional resources.
Annual Giving Programs
budget. Students are offered incentives, such as holidays and prizes, to reach certain sales goals. Raffle season begins in January and concludes with the Raffle drawing in March.
St. Pius X High School focuses its fundraising on the SPX Fund Drive and the Raffle. The SPX Fund supports the general operating budget of the School that helps pay for tuition, maintenance to the grounds, and facilities and utilities. Launched in the fall of each year, it is an opportunity for alumni, current and past parents and friends of the School to offer their financial support of the daily mission of St. Pius X. Donors who contribute at the St. Pius X Society level ($1,500) receive a Leadership Marble Apple and an invitation to our annual Pillars Society Event. Benefactors who join the Leaders in Veritas Circle through a donation of $5,000, receive the following benefits: • Invitation to an evening with the Head of School • VIP seating and parking at Fine Arts events • SPX Regular Season Football Pass (home games only) • Invitation to selected donor events The Raffle is the student equivalent to the SPX Fund Drive. Each year students are expected to sell a minimum of $320 in raffle tickets. The proceeds benefit the general operating
The Annual Gala
The St. Pius X Gala: An Evening of Latin Elegance will be held on Saturday, October 19. The black-tie optional dinner/dance features live, silent and big board auctions. The event benefits the Foundation endowment.
Enrollment
Promote St. Pius X among your friends, fellow parishioners and coworkers as an environment in which children are challenged to grow and test their talents. A healthy enrollment supports the growth of the School.
Set the World Ablaze
The Set the World Ablaze campaign is the School’s most ambitious fundraiser yet. The campaign is raising funds for a new science building, additional classroom space, a new student entrance on the west end of campus and modernization of the core campus. The support of the entire School community is integral to its success.
Other ways to support St. Pius X High School Matching Gifts
Many companies will match their employees’ contributions to nonprofit organizations. Should your employer be a matching gift company, you may double or triple the amount of your gift to St. Pius X.
Restricted Gifts You may direct your gift to a specific interest at St. Pius X such as baseball, choir, library, in memory of a loved one, etc. Planned Gifts
If you are interested in leaving a gift to St. Pius X in your will, there are several options available.
Volunteer Your time and dedication to St. Pius X are invaluable gifts and can be utilized in many areas of the School. If interested in any of these opportunities, please contact the Office of Advancement at 713.579.7512.
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Parent Involvement Parent Association About
The Parent Association of St. Pius X High School is an organization which provides parents and guardians an opportunity to meet and get to know one another while performing valuable services for the SPX community. While volunteering, parents and guardians play an important role at SPX, sharing their knowledge and talents, and serving on the various committees. Our volunteer activities range from working at New Family Night to serving lunch at Grandparent’s Day. Come and be a part of the Raffle Committee or help host our Junior Ring Ceremony or the Senior Breakfast. Whatever your interests may be, you are investing in your child’s future by being involved and setting a wonderful example of your willingness to sacrifice your time and talents to offer your student the best possible secondary educational experience.
Meetings
All St. Pius X parents are members of the Parent Association. The group provides an excellent opportunity to meet fellow parents and work on projects to benefit the School. The Parent Association meets on the first Wednesday of every month at 6 p.m. Be sure to check the website for meeting dates.
Officers
Officers are elected in the spring for the following school year. This year’s officers are: President - Patti Lampton Vice President - Kristin Guthrie Secretary - Naomi Rodriguez Treasurer - Michelle Archer Hospitality - Drudy Sullivan, Jonett Whitley Fashion Show Chair - Gloria Guerrero
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Booster Club Meetings
Golf Tournament
Officers
The Panther’s Den
The Booster Club conducts business to support St. Pius X Athletics. St. Pius X parents, alumni and friends of St. Pius X make up the Booster Club. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the Frost Cafeteria. President - Lisa Buss Vice-President - Melissa Fontana Secretary - Kim Chavez Treasurer - Sherrie Webb
The Booster Club has a store, the Panther’s Den located in the Frost Cafeteria, filled with lots of Panther merchandise and apparel. The Panthers’ Den will be open on Fridays during lunch.
Elections for new officers will be held at the final Booster Club meeting of the year, usually in May.
Concession Stands
The St. Pius X Booster Club Golf Classic will be on March 27 at BlackHorse Golf Club. Tournament planning begins in September. To volunteer, please contact Lisa Buss, the Booster Club president.
The Booster Club retains proceeds from concession stand sales at all home games. Parents volunteer to work concessions. If you are interested in working a game, please contact the Booster Club. Parents with children in a sport are encouraged to work at least one game a season.
Panther Den clothing is not St. Pius X High School dress code apparel unless stated in the Student Handbook. Please refer to the Student Handbook for proper uniform dress code.
Meet the Teachers Parents are invited to visit with teachers informally at any St. Pius X function and can schedule a parent/teacher meeting when needed. Parents have the opportunity to meet all teachers at Follow the Schedule Night, August 28 at 6:30 p.m. Parents are asked to communicate any concerns directly to the teacher. Email is a great way to keep in regular contact with teachers. All teachers’ email addresses are lastnamefirstinitial@stpiusx.org (ei. John Smith, smithj@stpiusx.org).
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2013-14 Panther Parent
2013-14 Parent Association Calendar of Events August 12 Transfer Orientation New Family Night 13 Ninth Grade Orientation 28 Follow the Schedule Night
6:30 p.m.
Auditorium
6:30 p.m.
Auditorium
September 4 Parent Association Meeting 6 p.m. 12th Grade Parent Information Meeting 6:30 p.m. 17 Progress Report Conferences 4-7 p.m. October 2 Parent Association Meeting 6 p.m. 9th Grade Parent Information Meeting 6:30 p.m. 9 College Night 6:30 p.m. November 6 Grandparents Day 11:30 a.m. Parent Association Meeting 6 p.m. 12 Open House 7 p.m. December 4 Parent Association Christmas Party
6 p.m.
January 8 Parent Association Meeting 6 p.m. 11th Grade Parent Information Meeting 6:30 p.m. 29 10th Grade Parent Information Meeting 6:30 p.m. February 5 Parent Association Meeting 11 Progress Report Conferences March 5 Parent Association Meeting 17-21 Spring Break
Auditorium
The Commons Strake Jesuit Herzstein Gym
Bramanti Library
The Commons The Commons
6 p.m. 4-7 p.m. 6 p.m.
April 2 Parent Association Meeting 3 Scholarship Dinner 9 Freshmen Registration
6 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 3:30-9 p.m.
Auditorium
May 4 23
10:30 a.m. 10 a.m.
Auditorium The Commons/Frost Cafeteria
6-8 p.m.
The Commons
Veritas Ring Ceremony Senior Breakfast
June 8 Mothers’ Meet and Greet
If interested in volunteering for any of these events, please contact Cathy Pawlowski in the Office of Advancement at 713.579.7515, pawlowskic@stpiusx.org.
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Reference Sources Student/Parent/Guardian Handbook
The Student Handbook, with the complete set of rules and regulations, is printed at the front of the student Time Tracker organizer and can be found online. Students are issued this book at the beginning of the school year and are encouraged to use it as directed. Parents must sign the acceptable computer use policy and the AlcoholEdu release form and return it to their theology teacher in mid-August.
Pius X News
Pius X News is the St. Pius X High School magazine published three times a year with a fall, spring and summer edition. Published by the Office of Advancement, it highlights events and people during the school year, including students, faculty/staff, alumni, current parents and friends of the School. Please contact Deanna Werner at wernerd@stpiusx.org for newsworthy information you would like submitted to the magazine. Alumni Class Notes should be submitted for these publications to Denise Meschwitz Lloyd ‘84 at lloydd@stpiusx.org.
St. Pius X Website
The Administration of St. Pius X is committed to making the website a viable resource for students, parents, alumni and donors. Please remember this as a source of the latest information St. Pius X needs to comPage 3the school calendar and virtually everything else relating to St. municate. Sports schedules, lunch menus, Pius X is posted on the website. In addition, teachers 2012-13 many Panther Parent post homework assignments on their own web pages. Go to the St. Pius X website, stpiusx.org, for more information.
Other Information Alcohol EDU
AlcoholEdu is required of all students, including transfers. It is first administered early in the first semester of the ninth grade year, or early in the fall semester for transfers. All ninth graders, as well as transfer students must complete it in order to attend the Homecoming Dance. Graduating seniors are also required to complete the second part of the program in order to attend Prom and/or Project Prom.
Drug Testing
St. Pius X High School has a random drug testing program in place. The program seeks to promote the health and safety of our students, to weaken the effects of peer pressure by giving a student a legitimate reason to refuse to partake in drug use, and to encourage students who uses illegal drugs to seek appropriate help and treatment.
Anti-Bullying Initiative
In fulfillment of the mission of St. Pius X High School to “celebrate the community’s diverse gifts and heritage” each person is recognized as a unique individual bringing gifts and talents to share and having a right to be respected and bearing the responsibility to respect others. Therefore, we do not tolerate bullying or harassment in any form. All members of our community are committed to ensuring a safe and supportive environment which promotes personal growth and fosters positive self-esteem. We aim to maintain a setting in which everyone feels valued and respected and where individual differences are appreciated and accepted.
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2013-14 Panther Parent
St. Pius X High School Mission Statement Prayer, Study, Community, Preaching - this is Dominican education at St. Pius X High School. Inspired by Veritas, young men and women embrace academic excellence and integrity, celebrate the community’s diverse gifts and heritage, and embody social justice and service.
St. Pius X High School 811 W. Donovan Street Houston, TX 77091-5643 Phone 713.692.3581 Fax 713.692.5725 stpiusx.org