Bishop Gorman High School Diocese of Las Vegas

Administration 2Gael Pride 3

Campus Ministry 4Academics 5

Athletics | Activities 6 Advancement 7

Volume 19 Issue 3 December 2012 | January 2013

On Tuesday evening, October 23, families, friends and Gorman administrators gathered in Ryan Hall to honor some of Bishop Gorman’s top students for their academic performance. The Fall Combined Honor Society Induction featured an invocation by the school president, Mr. John Kilduff, and remarks by BGHS Principal, Mr. Kevin Kiefer, praised the students for their great success and offered encouragement.

Ben Schlichting, National Honor Society President, was Master of Ceremonies, and the student leaders of the several honor societies introduced their organizations and explained the requirements for membership in each. Nearly two hundred outstanding students were inducted into one or more of the honor societies. THe HONOR SOCIeTIeS RePReSeNTed weRe:

Students were congratulated on their accomplishments and the honor that they bring to themselves, the school and their families. In addition, it was noted that membership in these prestigious organizations presents additional opportunities for service to the school and the community. The next induction ceremony will be in the spring semester and will feature new members of the National Art Society and the Academic Society in addition to those represented in the recent event.

Women’s Tennis and Men’s Soccer Win State! details on page 6

Please turn in 1 baby picture & 1 current picture of yourself. Guidelines: 1. Pictures need to be of you alone. 2. Can be AnY baby and AnY current picture of yourself (photo does not have to be your senior portrait). send to: bghsseniorpics@gmail.com OR bring a hard copy to Mrs. Young in the Activities Office (pictures will be returned). QuestiOns? speak with Mrs. Young, in Activities Office

The Fall Combined honor SoCieTy induCTion Ceremony

National Honor Society Science National Honor SocietyMu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society National Forensics LeagueSociedad Honoraria Hispanica Societe Honoraire de Francais

International Thespian Troupe #4347 Tri-M Music National Honor Society

december 14th deadline Senior Slide Show Picture

March 2013

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Administration

Memos from the Finance Department:Last month I wrote a letter that was an academic update

regarding how our programs are growing and changing through the process of becoming a Professional Learning Community (PLC). I wanted to reiterate the policies that

we have in place as a result of our work.

1. Late Work: Students will be allowed to submit assignments one day late for 80% credit. After that, students may submit assignments until the end of the unit/chapter for 50% credit. After the end of the unit, the assignment would be scored as NC (no credit, counts as a zero in the grade book). The normal absence policy in the handbook, of course, still applies to allow students to submit work for full credit.

Rationale: We still expect students to submit work on time, but as opposed to no credit for failure to meet a deadline, students will still earn points for the work that they must complete.

2. Retesting/Retakes: Retakes will only be permitted on major/significant assessments – defined as unit/chapter tests or major papers – for students who earn a grade of F (required retake) or D (optional retake). In order to retake the major assessment, students must complete additional training or work as defined by the instructor prior to retaking a different version of the assessment. Students who retake the assessment successfully will have their grade replaced with a higher grade up to 70%. If a student scores a lower grade, the original grade will stand. Students will be given one and only one opportunity per unit for a retake.

Rationale: Not all students learn at the same rate. When major assessments comprise such a large part of the final semester grade, a failing grade can have a devastating effect from which it may not be mathematically possible to recover. This allows students who may need more time to maximize their learning and their success.

There are some exceptions to these policies that are dictated by the nature of the course. We have already seen a positive impact in student learning. We will continue to work on policies and procedures that will enhance our academic program to ensure it becomes even better.

You can read the full letter at www.bishopgorman.org

On behalf of the entire administration, faculty, and staff, I would like to wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Dear Parents:

2012 Placement exam InformatIon

Current 8th grade students interested in applying to Bishop Gorman High School for the 2013 – 2014 school year are invited to take the placement exam on Saturday, January 12th at 8:00 am. The exam is open to all 8th grade students who have not previously taken it.

Prospective students that take the placement exam are included in the first pool of applicants considered for admission. Additionally, the exam results will help determine a student’s placement in freshman year classes.

The test given is the High School Placement Test (HSPT) by Scholastic Testing Services (STS). The exam will cover verbal and quantitative skills, reading, mathematics and language.

Prospective students are encouraged to pre-register for the exam by following the link

on the homepage of our website: www.bishopgorman.org

Finance OFFice HOLiday HOuRs: Closed Dec. 24, 2012 - Jan. 1, 2013 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Jan. 2, 2013 - Jan. 4, 2013Regular hours resume on Jan. 7, 2013

FinanciaL aid: Enrollment for financial aid for the 2013-2014 school year is currently open. Log on to www.bishopgorman.org where there is a link to Facts Grant and Aid under the admissions tab. Submit your application and pay the required fee online. The deadline to apply for financial aid is February 28, 2013. Please be aware that you must be verified by FACTS Tuition Aid for your application to be reviewed by the Tuition Assistance Committee. Incoming Freshman that have been verified and reviewed will receive notification award mid-March. All returning students that have been verified and reviewed will receive notification award mid-April.

TuiTiOn: Please direct any questions regarding your student’s tuition account to Vanessa Orozco in the Finance Department, 476-4023.

Principal Kevin P. Kiefer

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Gael Pride

The Speech and debate Team recently competed at the Falcon Invitational Tournament at Foothill High School. with 24 schools competing, BGHS Speech and debate took 3rd overall.

Our team also placed in the following categories: nathan Hill, ’15 - 1st place in Prose Interpretation, Michael Mcintosh ’13 - 1st place domestic extemporaneous (current events) & 2nd place Original Oratory (persuasive).

Laura Brodkin ’13 - 2nd place domestic extemporaneous (current events), Gianna santoro ’13 - 3rd place Original Oratory, alex Ward ’15 - 6th place expository Speaking (informative speaking with visual aids). Ray Hamade ’15 - 4th place Foreign extemporaneous (current events).

Congratulations!

While most individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease are 65 or older, members of our Bishop Gorman community of all ages—from 12 to 88—came together to battle the disease and to help those impacted by it at the recent “Walk to End Alzheimer’s,” held on October 27th at the Fashion Show Mall. Team “BGHS Walks the Walk” has been participating in this event for nine years. This year, however, a record number of students, faculty, staff and family members—more than 200—contributed their time and money toward research to find a cure for

this devastating disease, and support services for Alzheimer’s patients and their families. In addition to walking in support of the efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association, the Bishop Gorman community raised more than $2,700 dollars—an amount more than double the total raised by the BGHS team in any prior year. Team captain Ms. Margaret Foy, assistant librarian, is elated with the outcome. “I am so proud of our students, and very thankful to them, their families, and our faculty and staff for their fundraising efforts and support of this cause,” she said.

BGHS Community Rallied to End Alzheimer’s by Mrs. Joanne Andrews ’78, BGHS Librarian

Speaking of... BGHS SpeecH & DeBate team

On November 2nd, Mrs. Feely and Mr. Cava’s Advanced Art and Photo classes visited the Leonardo DiVinci Exhibit at the Venetian Hotel. Students learned about many of Leonardo’s inventions and saw life-size reproductions of his flying machines, tanks and other amazing

inventions. One of the most interesting of the exhibits was the Mona Lisa painting where students got up-close and personal with the infamous woman. This exact copy showed

the incredible detail and color choice of the original painting. Leonardo kept the Mona Lisa with him for more than a decade, and is said to have worked on it up until his death. The

Renaissance artist once said, “Art is never finished, only abandoned.”

The students were also treated to a tour of the hotel, led by Arleen Horna, Training Specialist at the Venetian and mother of Gorman alumni George Horna ’12. The students looked for unique scenes that could be used in their assigned project for the day, a mock

brochure cover, which will be reviewed by members of the Venetian Marketing Department, Mrs. Feely and Mr. Cava. The top five projects will be awarded prizes for their efforts.

DaVinci,the genius

Photos of the Venetian Hotel by: Makena Markman ’14 and Robbie McKinlay ’13

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Campus Ministry

Mite Box

Ms. dawson and her artists claim the Mite Box trophy!

Ms. dawson and class keep winning that Mite Box trophy!!!!

Mrs. Feely & her Mite Box winners proudly pose at the grotto!

On Saturday, November 10, several Gorman Gaels and their parents joined the efforts of the Arab American Ladies League of Las Vegas and earned service hours by helping out at the Blind Center of Nevada. The Blind Center of Nevada assists blind and visually impaired persons of all ages in reaching their highest physical, social, intellectual and economic potential.

Left to right: cole Michels ’15, Tanner Leishman ’15, Trey Kennedy ’15, Miles Loupe ’15, Richie Thornton ’15 volunteered to make the Desert Reign Sports Camp for Kids a great experience for underprivileged youth.

gaels helping our community

Blind Center of Nevada

Downtown Cares

They may be goofy, but Mr. Lieb’s first period students sure know how to support Mite Box!!

Here are some of the ways our Gaels are making a difference

Desert reign sports Camp For KiDs

On November 10th Bishop Gorman Gaels showed up ready to clean up and uplift our historic downtown. It is all about neighbors helping neighbors!

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Academics

PSAT results will be distributed in December to the juniors and sophomores through their English classes. The counselors will explain to the students how to interpret their results at that

time. Students receive their original test booklets with their scores. Parents and students should use this as a valuable learning tool and take the time to go over the problems and the answers. We encourage juniors to take the SAT and the ACT in the spring.

FRESHMEN NAVIANCE FAMILY CONNECTION: Mrs. Witucki completed a presentation to familiarize the students about Naviance. Each student received their log-in code and should be registered. NAVIANCE FAMILY CONNECTION helps students and parents to make educated decisions about their futures.

TuToring: For those students in need of a little extra help, tutoring through the National Honor Society is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays. NHS students – juniors and seniors with a 3.50 grade point average and above – will be available to help tutor in most subject areas. There is no charge for this service. Students may sign up with Mr. Goertemiller in Room 309 to get tutoring.

Final Exams are right around the corner (Jan. 16, 17 & 18). Here are some helpful thoughts about your Study Space:1. Is It avaIlable to me whenever I need It?

If you are using a Study Place that you must share with others, work out a schedule so that you know when you can use it.

2. Is It free from InterruptIons and dIsruptIons?Uninterrupted study time is important. You may need a DO NOT DISTURB sign on the door & turn off the phone. Research shows that most students study best in a quiet environment.

3. does It contaIn all the study materIals I need?Be sure your Study Place includes reference sources and supplies such as pens and pencils, paper, ruler, calculator and whatever else you might need. If you use a computer for schoolwork, it should be there too.

4. does It contaIn a large enough desk or table? Use a desk or table that is large enough to hold everything you need. Allow enough room for writing and avoid clutter.

5. does It have a comfortable chaIr?Select a chair in which you can sit for long periods while maintaining your attention.

6. does my study place have enough lIght?The amount of light you need depends on what you are doing. The important thing is that you can clearly see what you need to see without any strain or discomfort.

7. does my study place have a comfortable temperature?If your Study Place is too warm, you might become sleepy. If it is too cold, your thinking may slow down and become unclear. Select a temperature at which your mind and body function best.

havIng a good study place Is Important for good studyIng. Information provided by: how-to-study.com/preparing-to-study.htm

Quote of the month: “We are all inventors, each sailing out on a voyage of discovery, guided each by a private chart, of which there is no duplicate. The world is all gates, all opportunities.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Counselor’s Corner

The Student Services staff would like to thank everyone for a

great first quarter. As we begin the second quarter, we would

like to take this opportunity to remind all parents and students

of some of our policies:

• If your student is absent, please call the Attendance Office 476-4049 or email attendance@bishopgorman.org each day that the student is absent. If you are unable to call or email on the day of absence, please send a note with your student the day that they return to school.

• For the safety of students, as well as to minimize disruptions to the academic setting, we are unable to accept deliveries (i.e. flowers, balloons, etc.) from outside organizations.

• In an effort to minimize the disruptions to the classroom setting, please ensure that your student has all of their

materials (homework, lunch money, practice clothes, etc.) prior to leaving home in the morning.

• Please ensure that your student is in appropriate dress code prior to leaving for school each morning.

• There are four sweatshirts that are sold in the Campus Store that can be worn to school Monday through Thursday. These are the only four sweatshirts that are part of the regular day dress code. All other Bishop Gorman sweatshirts should be worn to extracurricular activities and after school hours.

• The Tiberti Student Commons is open and supervised by a faculty/staff member every day until 4:00 pm, and the Library IMET Center is open until 3:30 pm.

From Student Services

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Athletics | Activities

Mayor’s Prayer BreakfastA group of eight seniors, represented our school at the annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast in November. This event, modeled after the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., focuses on the unification of our state. It reminds us that because of our unique strengths, we have the resources to find creative solutions to the various challenges facing our community.

Students at the event: alexandria Gordon ’13, Hallie Hoskins ’13, Davey Martinez ’13, Michael McIntosh ’13, Summer Minden ’13, Juliana Remark ’13, Lindsey Remark ’13, and Ben Schlichting ’13.

The fall sports season at Bishop Gorman High School has once again produced successful results. The Women’s Golf and Volleyball teams both advanced to the State Tournament in Reno after finishing successful league seasons and runs through the Sunset Division Playoffs. The Women’s Tennis team kicked-off the year by capturing the Division 1 State Championship in Reno with a win over Coronado. This is the school’s 18th State Championship in Women’s Tennis, the most successful sport in Bishop Gorman history.

The next day after winning the team State Championsh ip , s o p h o m o r e Chelsea Crovetti

’15 proved she is the best Women’s tennis player in the state by winning the Individual Championship.

The Men’s Soccer team had its most successful season in several years. After strong finishes in pre-season tournaments, the team won

the Sunset Division, and a d v a n c e d to the State Tournament. In the final match, they beat Green Valley 1-0 to capture the Division 1 State Championship.

The Bishop Gorman Football team continues to have an amazing season. Ranked in the top 25 in the country for the 4th consecutive year, the Gaels rolled through league play and look strong for the playoffs and the State Tournament. Good luck to Coach Sanchez and the rest of the Gaels Football team as they attempt to win their 4th consecutive State Championship.

On November 14, 2012, Bishop Gorman held the first of three signing days of the year. This special day for senior athletes receiving scholarships to attend college featured Swimmers olivia Barker ’13 (Indiana University) and

Lindsey Englestead ’13 (University of New Mexico) as well as baseball player Kenny Meimerstorf ’13 (University of Arizona). What was so special about this group was the fact that all three of them have never lost a State Championship while at Bishop Gorman. They all won State Championships in their first three years and look to complete the rare feat of winning four straight State Championships!

Winter sports practices have begun. Look for

updates on Men’s and Women’s Basketball, Wrestling, and Men’s and Women’s Bowling

in the next issue.

tiCkets for this dance

will go on sale beginning on

TuesdAY, JAnuArY 22nd through thursday, February 14th, 2013.

S a d i e H a w k i n S F e b r u a r y 1 6 , 2 0 1 3

Ticket prices will be

$ 4 5 / c o u p l e a n d

$25/single. Prices go

up at the door. More

dance information will

be available aFter the christMas holiday.

7

Advancement

Classroom notes

In November, Mr. Wright’s Psychology classes enjoyed a visit from guest speaker Jennifer C. Moore, LCSW, (Licensed Clinical Social Worker). During her visit the students learned about different behavioral disorders and treatments as well as the day to day activities of a therapist. The students truly enjoyed having Ms. Moore share her stories, answer questions and speak to them about what it is like to be in this field of psychology. We thank her for taking time out of her busy day to speak to our classes.

Psychology

31st annual Knight of the Gael

HonoringMike '65 and Patty Morrissey

March 21st, 2013at Red Rock Resort Casino Spa

Save The Date!

NoveliSt Kiera caSS viSitS BGHSby Joanne Andrews ’78, BGHS Librarian

What do Esther from the Bible and Cinderella have in common? Both were inspirations for author Kiera Cass’ novel The Selection, one of her works which she discussed with the entire class of 2014 during her visit to Bishop Gorman on November 2, 2012.

Cass, who addressed and held a morning “chat” with more than 300 juniors, is also the author of The Siren, whose title character is faced with a decision: death versus a century of solitude. Cass’ novel The Prince is scheduled for release in March and The Elite in April of 2013.

“I was curious about their hearts” and what they really felt about their circumstances, said Cass about Esther and Cinderella—one both a historical and biblical character, the other the subject of a fairy tale. The tales of both women inspired her to write The Selection, her second novel, which tells the story about a girl from a humble background who gains the attention of a prince, but is already in love with someone else. The novel is also the basis for a pilot being shot for the CW television network.

Mrs. Nancy Maheras, who teaches English 3 AP and Honors, said of the visiting author, “After looking at Ms. Cass’ website with my classes, I knew that she would be warm, funny and interesting. And she was!”

On Saturday November 10, the Bishop Gorman High School Band of the Blue and Orange competed in the 2012 Sounds Across The Valley Marching Contest held at Sierra Vista High School. We are proud to announce that they received an overall rating of EXCELLENT and placed THIRD in 1A classification. Congratulations to the band for all of their hard work and efforts for a very successful competition season!!

Don’t forget to make your gift to Gael Force before the end of the year!

we’ve got the rhythm!

A very Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

8

For more information visit: www.bishopgorman.org.

Bishop Gorman High School5959 S. Hualapai WayLas Vegas, NV 89148

Go Gaels!PRESORT

STANDARDU.S. Postage

PAIDLas Vegas, NVPermit No. 37

BISHOP GORMAN HIGH SCHOOL PRESENTS

winter musicExtravaganza

6pm Instrumental Music Portion

7:30pm Vocal & Musical �eatre Portion

directed by steve purifoy

directed by Elena ferrante-martin

December 14 & 15, 2012

With performances by:Gaels on Broadway JV & VarsityHeart and SoulDirecting Pra�icumKnight RhythmWorship ChoirJV & Varsity BandGaels GuitarsDrumline

With a preview performance by the ca� ofINTO THE WOODS

Jim House of Performing ArtsTickets available at www.bishopgorman.orgFor box o�ce information, contact 702 476 4175or performingarts@bishopgorman.org

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From the

Have aMerry Christmas and a

Happy New Year Hammes Campus Store

From the Smallest Sparkle to the Softest HoodieFind Perfect Presents to Make Spirits Bright!

The Perfect Holiday Gift Baskets are Available for everyone on your List!

Gifts Made For Wish Lists...