Monthly Archives: October 2016

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Halloween at St. Rose

St Rose got creative on October 31st, 2016! As a privilege, seniors were allowed to dress in costumes on Halloween. Some seniors dressed in groups, while others dressed uniquely independent! The day was filled with fun as the seniors walked the hallways showing off their costumes to the underclassmen, who must wait until they are a senior to dress up.

The morning started off with a bagel breakfast, and pictures were taken as everyone scoped out the different costumes. Seniors were handed a sheet of paper with different categories listed, and they were asked to write down who they thought was most creative, best overall, best female costume, best male costume, and best group costume. The energy of the cafeteria was filled with excitement as everyone decided who they thought should win the contest!

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The senior privilege of dressing up for Halloween is truly something special and is anticipated as soon as you walk through the front doors as a freshman. “As a senior, I was looking forward to seeing all of the groups of people in their costumes,” Jasmine Balzano stated. “I loved being able to spend my last Halloween at St. Rose dressed up with all of my friends.” As a whole, the seniors excitement on Halloween was felt throughout the hallways. Ashley Ward shared, “I was looking forward to seeing everyone’s costumes and after deciding on what I was dressing up as, I was so excited to make my costume with my friends.”

The day was not only limited to seniors – Teachers dressed up as well! It was extra special seeing what the teachers decided to be and how creative they were! Mr. Thompson, a history teacher at St. Rose, said, “As my first year dressing up, I was most looking forward to all the seniors dressing up and not being the only teacher dressing up!” The teachers had as much fun as the seniors. Gail, who serves the world’s best cookies at lunch time, stated, “I loved seeing everyone’s costumes and having fun!” Ms. Ricco and Mrs. Miller both dressed up as “Playa Bowls”, a delicious treat that is very popular amongst St. Rose students. Ms. Ricco explained, “I loved having fun and dressing up with the seniors.” The day was truly fun for all!

Halloween day was unforgettable, and the seniors really made it special with their creativity and happy spirits! The teachers also added fun to the day with their fantastic costumes. It was a day the Class of 2017 will always remember!

By: Marjorie Pawlowicz ’17 Photo Editor & Sydney Daniel ’17 News Editor

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Gymnastics Wrap Up Their Season

As Fall sports come to a close and Winter sports get ready to roll in, St. Rose’s Girls Varsity Gymnastics team wraps up their season and is already looking forward to the next! The girls, as well as Coach Mantlick, believe their season was a success and that each girl grew and improved . “I’m super proud of this season. We both did very well and I’m already excited for next year!”

Although, like in all sports, hardships presented themselves. One in particular was the teams’ loss of a member. The girls squad was cut down from 3 talented gymnasts to two. Captain Anna Turning commented on the struggle and stated that “As a team it was tough but we overcame it. We were able to pull through and continue to finish out the season competing strongly.”

The girls competed in X meets this year and performed to the best of their abilities. The teams’ final competitive meet took place at Shore Regional, on October 25th. Sophomore Mercedes Escandon is scheduled to compete and represent the team at the “Novice Meet” next Tuesday, November 1st, at Brick Memorial. Mercedes will be competing in her two favorite events: beam and vault. In addition to the upcoming “Novice Meet”, Captain Anna has qualified for Sectionals on bar and will represent the team.

Although the school’s gymnastics season is wrapping up, Mercedes and Anna are just getting started. Both girls are apart of club teams outside of St. Rose. The two continue to practice, train, and compete regularly year round so come next Fall they’ll be ready! The girls hope to come back next year stronger and improved. But they also hope to recruit more girls to join their team.

Ms. Mantlick was a huge part of the team success this season and was always there to encourage the girls and help them. “I can’t thank Ms. Mantlick enough! We appreciate everything she has done for us and she was amazing to work with!” shared Anna.

By: Hannah Gammond ’17

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Girls Tennis Finishes Strong

The Saint Rose High School Girls tennis team has had a successful season this fall. Led by coach, Mr. Joyce, the girls have come together to form a strong bond, and have improved greatly over the season. The captains of the team this year were seniors, Gianna Longo and Marina Kaifas. Each team member has improved their skills, and the team has formed a strong bond. The girls have had several wins and loses throughout the season, which came to a close this Tuesday, October 25th.

image-1 One of the highlights of this season was Senior Day, a day dedicated to celebrate the seniors final Saint Rose tennis season. For senior day, the girls made Gianna and Marina farewell posters, and bought them cookies. The two captains were the only seniors on the team this year, and are upset that their final season is coming to an end. “This season went by so fast and ended well”, says senior, Marina Kaifas. “I still can’t believe that we are seniors- I’m going to miss playing on this team so much!”

The biggest accomplishment for the season was making it to the first round of states and winning. Through dedication, teamwork, and practice, the girls were able to secure the win for Saint Rose High School in the first round. The team continued on to the second round and played a good match, but were unfortunately defeated. Despite their defeat, the girls did not let their good spirit break and are proud of how the season ended. “It doesnt matter that we didn’t win the highest title,” says senior, Gianna Longo. “What matters is that we played our best and learned more about the sport we love. We came together and had an awesome and  extremely successful season.” The Saint Rose High School Girls Tennis team have had a season full of accomplishments and have proven that with dedication and passion, success is always in reach.

By: Alex Hambsch ’17

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St. Rose High School’s Brand New Program Exceeds All Expectations

St. Rose High School introduced a new, official program to the athletics department this year and that program was volleyball. With only a couple scrimmages and little to no experience from last season’s “club”, the team had low expectations for the season. However, this year’s team surprised most of the Shore Conference with skills, plays, high energy and team spirit.

The team consists of just under 30 participants.  Each participant improved due largely to the team’s newest coach, Dan Williams.  Coach Williams had each player write down 2 personal goals and a team goal. These goals were kept by the coach who claims, “I bring them everywhere I go… I also love to surprisingly remind the girls of their goals from time to time.”  Coach Dan, as well as, Coach Jen Molzon were vital to the team’s motivation and improvement. Although the coaches can do as much as they can for their team, it is the player’s responsibility to perform correctly under pressure. According to Coach Jen, “The girls love to put on a show for their audience, especially during our closest games!”

SRGVVB beat the teams they knew they could, such as: Trinity Hall and Keyport. However, the girls also did put up a stubborn fight for the elite teams of the Shore Conference such as: RBC, SJV and RFH, causing some of those opponents to shed a tear or two. For the team’s middle, Sam Boehmcke, shared, “There is never a better feeling then knowing you and your team played their hardest, even if you didn’t win.” The team has learned that with loud cheers, bows, encouragement, and a positive outlook, the team can take on anyone.

As the season progressed, more and more of the girls’ goals were achieved, whether it was serving over hand instead of underhand, directing your passes, setting your backside, or aiming your hits, the team has done it all.  Each player has brought something to the team whether it was a natural ability to jump high, or cheer until they lost their voice to a jump serve that was perfected through weeks and months of practice.  Each individual provided something and certainly left with even better things including: new friends, stronger relationships and amazing memories. Congratulations to St. Rose’s newest program. But for the seasons to come, you’ve accomplished so much, but don’t let anyone stop you from climbing even higher!

By: MaryKate O’Malley ’17

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Senior Retreat

On Wednesday, October 19, 2016, the seniors of the St. Rose student body gathered at St. William the Abbott Church in Howell for their annual retreat. At the retreat, the students played games, attended Mass, and listened to Mr. Petrillo speak about living as a Catholic teenager in today’s world. The seniors enjoyed a day of relaxation as the freshmen, sophomores, and juniors took the PSATs at school.

The first activity of the retreat was a game involving the entire senior class. As the students moved their chairs to form a circle, seven seniors were selected to initiate the start of the game “Pop Up”. These students went around the circle and performed a series of actions for another student sitting down. Once these actions were completed, the students would “pop up” and switch places. This activity energized the Class of 2017, making the seniors ready for the rest of the day.

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After the first game, the students celebrated Mass with Father Walter in the intimate chapel at St. William the Abbott. Mr. Petrillo emphasized the importance of the Eucharist and how it links all Catholics together. The Mass was followed by another activity which involved Legos. The seniors were divided into two large groups, groups A and B, and then into six smaller groups, making twelve groups overall. Groups were paired up and had to work together to rebuild a Lego sculpture. Maeve Tuttle shared, “The Lego activity was my favorite activity that we have ever played at a retreat.”

After the Lego activity the the seniors were given time to reflect before lunch. Mr. Petrillo set aside an hour for lunch, giving the seniors plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful sunshine. Students played football, passed a soccer ball, and walked around.

As soon as lunch ended, Mr. Petrillo spoke about the hardships and stresses when it comes to the college application process and senior year in it’s entirety. “His stories were very relatable, making him easier to connect with,” said Bryn Onoshko.

Lastly, the seniors were given time to once again reflect on their year in the chapel. After a closing prayer, the seniors were dismissed. Overall, the retreat was a success, and each student gained something unique from this experience

By: Caroline Lowry ’17

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How to Prepare for the PSAT

The purpose of the PSAT is to test students’ progress as they are beginning a new school year. The PSAT is similar to the new SAT but its content is not quite as difficult. The results of the PSAT are a useful indicator to the actual SAT that students will eventually take.  The PSAT allows students to examine their ability to meet various benchmarks in reading, language arts, and mathematics. By taking this exam students learn more about their academic development and how to further prepare for the SAT. Although standardized testing can be tedious, it is important as it is another measure of your academic growth.

Before taking the PSAT it is crucial to prepare in advance. College Board distributes PSAT Student Guides to provide sample questions similar to the ones on the PSAT. The test includes: writing and language portion and two math sections – one with a calculator and one without. The Student Guide is a beneficial tool and it is highly recommended because it is good practice. Another way to prepare for the PSAT is to visit CollegeBoard.com where one can find more sample questions and additional information regarding the test format. Khan Academy is another convenient website that offers free test prep. The Student Guide also explains how the test is administered. For instance, once you move onto a new section you cannot look back or skip ahead. Always remember to double-check your answer key after filling in the bubbles, and do not forget to utilize scrap paper to calculate answers in the math section.

Perhaps one of the most important ways to prepare for the PSAT and all standardized tests is to get proper rest and nutrition in the days before. On the morning of the test make sure you have an acceptable and fully charged calculator, a few number 2 pencils, and spare erasers. Do not be nervous as the PSAT is only practice!

By Ava O’Shaugnessy ’17

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Kairos XLIII

Kairos is a retreat held at the Marianist Retreat Center in Cape May, New Jersey. Students spend four technology-free days learning more about themselves and how to strengthen their relationship with God.

There are three sessions in which the students have the opportunity to attend: October, February, and May. The fall and winter sessions are for seniors only, however in the spring, juniors who are chosen by the faculty are invited to attend the life-changing experience, along with the seniors.

This fall, nineteen students attended Kairos XLIII along with their leaders Sister Kathleen, Mr. Devaney, Mrs. Pfister-Brown, Mr. Petrillo, and Father Walter. Although the students and faculty who attend change with the season, Kairos is always guaranteed to have an extraordinary effect on an individual.

I attended this past Kairos and it has changed my outlook on many aspects in my life. Due to the confidentiality of the events that occur on Kairos, I cannot speak of how or why I see the world in a different light. However, the element of surprise that occurred each day as I participated in the different events deepened my experience. I truly believe that I have been changed for the better and I encourage everyone to take the opportunity that is being given to them to change their lives, as well.

show_imgMany people shared their experience on how Kairos affected them: Julia Swanson said, “Kairos was truly magical. I discovered things about myself that I never knew before. It really makes you realize how much of life is taken for granted. After this experience, I am aware of how much I am loved and I have a new confidence about myself.” Alex Phipps shared, “It made me feel like a new person. I feel so renewed and ready to start building a better relationship with God.” Lastly Sophia Tagliamonte said, “I am so grateful for this experience and those I spent it with. I made relationships with people I would have never expected. I wouldn’t trade the memories for the world.”

Kairos is a time of self-reflection and honesty. It is a time where no one cares about looks, or the typical high school drama. At Kairos, all is forgotten and the main focus is on yourself and on God.

By: Julia Renna ’17

 

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Freshman for a Day

 Eighth grade  girls and boys from all different walks of life marched the halls with bright smiles on their faces while they attended Freshman for a Day; shadowing their ninth grade counterparts on October 12th.  “Freshman for a Day” is an annual event that is held by St. Rose High School that enables eighth graders to experience the environment of St. Rose High school first hand, it also aids them in their decision of what high school they want to attend.

  “Participating in Freshman for a day last year was really great and it helped me decide to come here to St. Rose,” Molly Lynch a ninth grader here at St. Rose High School (she attended Sea Girt Elementary School)  expressed. Molly had an eighth grade friend shadow her this year, “Being on the other side [of the shadow] knowing the ins and outs of the school, it felt good to show her around and that I could help someone pick what school they end up in; especially because I was in their shoes last year.”

St. Rose High School’s annual tradition of opening it’s doors to eighth graders exemplifies its esteem for the element of community. As the eighth grade students walk the halls, SRHS hopes that they feel welcomed and accepted from all of the older students and staff.  “We work hard to make sure the incoming eighth graders feel welcomed and experience all St. Rose High School has to offer and hopefully learn to appreciate the school as much as we do,” remarked Senior Class Treasurer Titus Hood.

By: Alex Pendergrass ’17

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Friday Outreach: A Blessing Outside of School

 

img_2170Friday Outreach is one of the many extraordinary activities SRHS offers students each year. Students in varying Religion classes volunteer each quarter to travel to Asbury Park to serve food to those less fortunate in a neighboring community.  Every grade level participates throughout the year and the experience leaves students feeling fulfilled and satisfied.

Hannah Gammond, Class of 2017, shares her experiences from Outreach, “It was an eye-opening experience to see people so close to our community have so little. Everyone has the opportunity to help others, it’s important to take part.”

Friday, October 7th, was the first Outreach trip of the school year.  Several students traveled with Mr. Petrillo, our new campus minister, from the school to Asbury Park with student-donated canned goods. Ciara Thompson, Class of 2017/pictured above, attended the trip for the first time. “I never expected it to be such an amazing experience. The feeling of helping other people is something you don’t feel every day so I am glad I got to take advantage of this opportunity, especially during my last year at Saint Rose.”

St. Rose provides students with opportunities to carry out their faith inside and out of the community; accept the invitation and reach out to help others!

By: Jillian Barry ’17

 

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Monarch Butterfly

This past summer St. Rose Science teacher Mrs. Bergman took part in an informative class, held in Freehold,  called Monarch Teacher’s Network. Mrs. Bergman’s interest in the class stems from the sad fact that the monarch butterflies are being seriously threatened in today’s environment. The purpose of the class was to teach how to raise butterflies indoors in order to repopulate the environment; when raised indoors the monarch butterfly’s survival rate is much higher.

dsc_0344During the class Mrs. Bergman, along with other educators from the area, learned how to collect monarch butterfly eggs. The eggs are collected from milkweed leaves and then taken home and put in a safe environment. Once the eggs are hatched a caterpillar appears. After some time the caterpillar forms a chrysalis and the process of metamorphosis occurs. The actual metamorphosis, or transformation from caterpillar to butterfly, takes about ten to fourteen days, while the whole process of caterpillar to butterfly takes approximately three weeks total. Once the butterfly emerges from the chrysalis, the butterflies are kept for one more day so that the wings can harden. This step is vital to the survival of the butterfly once let out into the world. In total, Mrs. Bergman hatched nine butterflies. The timing for the release is extremely important, as the butterflies will not be able to fly if it is below fifty-five degrees outside.

Mrs. Bergman has expressed not only the importance of raising monarch butterflies but the importance of the need of the continued growth of milkweed. Milkweed is the only thing that monarch butterflies can eat, and the amount of milkweed available is in a steady decline. Although monarch butterflies will most likely not go extinct, if the amount of milkweed continues to decline, monarch butterflies will no longer be able to migrate.

dsc_0345Mrs. Bergman felt the entire process was not only educational but very enjoyable. She shared, “If monarch butterflies are to continue  migrating they need help, and milkweed. It is very important to raise them indoors and do it properly.”

By: Emme Anderson ’17