SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT NEWSLETTER DECEMBER …JANUARY 2015 10 Entrance Exam for Incoming Freshmen, 9-12:30 12 2nd Semester Begins – CLASSES RESUME E3 Student Survey Begins to January

SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT NEWSLETTER DECEMBER 2014/JANUARY 2015 ________________________________________________________________________________________

1

Dear Parents, Students, and Friends of De La Salle, “December” --- the very word provokes a variety of reactions in people. For shopaholics, the month becomes, seemingly, their reason for being. For those far from home, there may be some sadness at separation from loved ones. For little children, the season often brings about much excitement, particularly among those for whom Santa Claus is just as real as their grandfathers. For some older kids, this is the time of year to organize battle plans so as to earn medals as consumers. This latter group has learned well the lessons taught by some adults who know how to collect and consume. The list of categories could go on. I am struck this year by a change in the air. I have met more and more folks who want to make Christmas 2014 a different one. I hear much talk about simpler and fewer gifts. I have learned of families who are intentionally organizing their approach to Christmas so that what they give will benefit others most in need. I talked to a graduate of a Lasallian school in Rhode Island whose father I taught in the 1970s. He is in the military and on an overseas assignment. His sadness in being away from family is real; he has, however, made plans to bring his grandpa’s slightly comedic version of Santa Claus to little ones in Seoul, South Korea. With this focus he will move away, at least a bit, from sadness to an anticipated joy in bringing his warm memories from when he was little to others. I imagine he has kindred spirits in the military. Maybe at this point in reading these words you might be thinking: “Ok, I see where this is going. Get ready for the ‘guilt trip’ about materialism, greed, and self-centeredness getting in the way of the true meaning of Christmas.” This assertion is true, but not what I focus on here and not what I necessarily refer to above in the first paragraph. For Christians, there is no litmus test about how to celebrate Christmas except one: whatever one does must be done in reference to the belief that God became human in Jesus and our lives are different because of this belief. How you express that belief and live differently in light of it can vary greatly. Your celebrations over the years may take on different emphases. Just don’t lose sight of the Saviour and what His coming to “pitch His tent” means for us every year. When writing about the meaning of Christmas Eve, Sister Gail Fitzpatrick, a contemplative nun in Iowa, says the following: Here is the paradox of this radiant night. We do know the mystery of Christ’s light. It is within us in every moment toward good. It is around us in heroic, faithful love of spouses, parents, and friends. But Christ’s light and joy is not complete on earth, not yet. His peace does not prevail in our world, but the hope for peace burns in our hearts. Doubt burdens many, but the seeds of hope this night continue to sprout and grow. Nothing can stop them. Sister Gale’s words should keep us attentive each year to the mystery and the joy of Christmas. This is true whether in any given year you are going extravagant or simple, at home or far away, living more in darkness or coming, step by step, into the light. Christ comes to save us all. The good news given to us is that no one is excluded from His promise of love, peace, and forgiveness. The challenge for us who believe in Catholic, Lasallian education is to make sure that we always hold up and share this good news. The ways we do that, as parents, educators, and students, may be the most important list we create this Christmas season. May this Christmas and New Year be a time of peace, joy, and love for all of you! God Bless!

Brother Robert J. Wickman, F.S.C. Principal


2

Dear Parents, “Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?” These words uttered by Charlie Brown in the animated Christmas classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas, challenge me each year to focus on the real meaning of Christmas. In the program, Charlie Brown questions the meaning of Christmas; if it has lost its true meaning from all the commercialism. When leaders at CBS saw the rough cut of the show they hated it. But when this show debuted on December 9, 1965 it was the second most-watched show of that week. 50% of the nation’s viewers watched it that night. What is interesting to note is that Charles Schulz was warned that it was dangerous to start talking about religion in this show, and Schulz answered by saying - “If we don’t, who will?” He was a genius with the way he did it. I don’t know about you but Linus’ explanation from Luke 2:8-14 is one that truly resonates with me: “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this [shall be] a sign unto you; You shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown. The words “If we don’t, who will?” spoken nearly 50 years ago, still ring true today and are a call to action for our school. We need to remain centered during the Christmas Season on the gift that God has given us – His Son – and we need to proclaim it in a world that is counter cultural to this. On behalf of the Faculty and Staff of De La Salle High School, we wish you and your family a Merry Christmas! In the Spirit of St. John Baptist de La Salle,

Mark DeMarco '78 President

http://peanuts.wikia.com/wiki/Charlie_Brown


3

DECEMBER 2014 1 Financial Aid Application available on DLS website. World Aids Day 1-18 Toy Drive 2 Special Schedule: 1:40 Dismissal, 0-1-2-5-6-3-4-7 3 Special Schedule: 1-2-5-6-3-4-7 SIP – Mr. Grantham’s 3rd period Religious Studies 4 Special Schedule: 0-2-6-4-7 5 Special Schedule: 1:25 Dismissal, 0-1-5-3 8 Special Schedule: 0-1-2-3-4-5-6-7 Mass of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception

DRESS UP 9 Joint DLS/CHS College Financial Aid Night, 7:00 p.m., CHS Garaventa Center 10 Joint Christmas Concert, 7 p.m., CHS Garaventa Center 15 Special Schedule: 0-1-2-5-6-3-4 Christmas at De La Salle 16 Semester Exams – Per. 1, 2 and 7 17 Semester Exams – Per. 5, 3 and 0 18 Semester Exams – Per. 6 and 4 End of First Semester 19 CHRISTMAS VACATION – NO CLASSES

Classes resume Monday, January 12, 2015

JANUARY 2015 10 Entrance Exam for Incoming Freshmen, 9-12:30 12 2nd Semester Begins – CLASSES RESUME E3 Student Survey Begins to January 20 14 Special Schedule: 0-3-1-5-7 Mandatory Senior Parent Graduation Meeting, 7 p.m., DLS Theatre 15-18 Kairos #91 16 Winter Dance at DLS 19 Martin Luther King Jr. HOLIDAY – No Classes 21 Special Schedule – Early Start 8:15 a.m. 3-1-5-7 Recognition Assembly

SIP – Mr. Castello’s 1st Period Religious Studies 24 “Walk of Life” San Francisco DLS Crab Feed – 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. 26-30 Catholic Schools Week 27-30 Kairos #92 27 DLS Crab Feed 31 Spirit Dance at CHS

First Semester Final Exam Schedule:* TIMES DEC. 16 DEC. 17 DEC. 18 8:15 - 9:45 Period 1 Period 5 Period 6 9:45-10:15 BREAK BREAK BREAK 10:15-11:45 Period 2 Period 3 Period 4 11:45 -11:55 Announcements Announcements Announcements

12:15-1:45 Period 7 Period 0 Students will be dismissed over the PA system when announcements are completed.

VICE PRINCIPAL FOR CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT AND ACADEMIC SERVICES

The semester is quickly coming to a close, with exams scheduled to begin on December 16. Please note that exams do not end until Thursday, December 18. Students will not be excused from final exams for early vacation plans. We have a long Christmas break, with plenty of time for holiday plans. It is always important for students to be prepared for classes and exams, and it is especially important that students prepare for their semester final exams. Students should be rested, and should set up a study schedule for these exams. It is most important that students are present and on time for these exams each day. If a student is absent due to serious illness, special arrangements need to be made with Mrs. Mattos and the classroom teacher prior to Christmas break. Please remember that we have 7th period tutorials in every subject area to help students throughout the semester. Freshmen students can meet with their instructors before school, at lunch and after school as well. Parents and students should be checking PowerSchool regularly so that they are aware of current assignments and grades to date. It is becoming increasingly difficult for students to make up D and F grades over the summer or in online classes, so every attempt should be made to achieve successful grades for the semester. The semester break will begin after the final exams on Dec. 18. Second semester begins when we return on Jan. 12. Semester grades will be mailed during that second week of January. SPECIAL INFORMATION ABOUT SEMESTER GRADES: The PowerSchool portal will be closed once semester exams begin, to give the teachers the appropriate time to input grades carefully at the end of the semester. Grades are due on January 5 at 8:00 a.m., and we will open the PowerSchool portal then. If any student has a question about a grade, the student should notify the teacher at that time via email. We will OFFICIALLY store grades on that date. If there is an error in a student grade, students must communicate with the teacher and a grade change must be made before the first day of the new semester.

SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT NEWSLETTER DECEMBER 2014/JANUARY 2015 _____________________________________________________________________________________________

4

SECOND SEMESTER: Your student’s second semester schedule is visible on PowerSchool. Please have him look it over to verify what classes he will be taking. Students should see Mrs. Mattos for any necessary class changes prior to the semester break on December 18. All students are expected to have their classes set before they return in January. As a reminder, students cannot drop a year-long course, unless they have failed the first semester in a sequential course. Please take the time to review your son’s second semester schedule with him. This is also a good time to establish new goals for the second semester, and review accomplishments from the year to date. Please note that the semester grades you will receive in January are final grades, and are recorded on your son’s transcript. If a student received a grade of “F” in any subject, this must be made up before returning to school next fall. PRE-REGISTRATION: Finally, we will begin the pre-registration procedures during the first week of February. Your son will receive pre-registration materials at the beginning of February, but we remain “GREEN” and the Course Catalog will be posted online at our main website, in the ACADEMIC area. We have set February 5 as our Academic Advisement Night for parents, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Please jot this date down now on your calendars. Parents might want to look over the Course Catalog online before that evening, and more information will follow. A meeting for College Planning for Junior Parents will take place on Wednesday February 4. The college counselors will be able to answer questions about academic advisement for junior parents at that meeting. Mapping out your son’s schedule is extremely important: please allow enough time to go over the registration process with your son and make shared decisions. Your son’s counselor will be meeting with him to discuss his schedule and approve his course selections. It is very important that students and parents understand that the master schedule is built upon student requests at this time of year. Therefore, only minor adjustments should be made over the summer. By taking the time now, you avoid many difficulties and little choice later. If you have any questions about this process, please do not hesitate to call Mrs. Mattos at 288-8101.

REGISTRAR SELECTIVE SERVICE REGISTRATION: Students are required by law to register for the Selective Service when they reach the age of 18, and they can register as early as age 17 years, 3 months. You may register by going to: www.sss.gov. TRANSCRIPTS: Seniors should be requesting all transcripts through Naviance. If you are in need of assistance, please contact Mrs. Appel or Ms. Lopez in the College Counseling Office. All other students can use the paper form on the door of the Registrar’s Office to request an official transcript. Please allow at least five days prior to the deadline to process. The Registrar’s Office will be closed during the holidays, December 20 to January 5. Be sure to submit your request through Naviance well before holidays or finals! Questions? Call Mrs. Szczepanski at (925) 288-8109.

GUIDANCE SERVICES Results of the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) taken by DLS juniors in October will be back shortly. Hopefully, counselors will be able to return individual results to students in December. If the results do not arrive before the Christmas vacation, they will be distributed when we return in January. Result distribution will be followed in January by rounds of group meetings with De La Salle’s college counselors, Mrs. Appel and Ms. Lopez. These meetings will focus on planning for the college admission process, along with information about different college systems, and the student’s present eligibility for some of those colleges. Parents, plan on asking your junior son for the PSAT results. Results of the practice ACT test taken in October by the sophomores will also be available shortly. The test is the preliminary version of the American College Test (ACT) that, along with the SAT, is used in determining eligibility to four-year colleges and universities. The PLAN results will be distributed, interpreted and discussed through biology classes during late January. Sophomores will be encouraged to view these results as a way to assess their academic strengths and weaknesses, think about how to improve their skills, and begin to think about what career directions they may wish to pursue in their adult lives. It is hoped that this will motivate sophomores to do better in school and formulate goals for themselves. Parents should request test results from their sophomore son.

http://www.sss.gov/


5

VICE PRINCIPAL FOR FACULTY DEVELOPMENT AND WCEA SCHOOL COORDINATOR De La Salle High School is currently preparing for our accreditation visit during the Fall Semester of 2015. We are pleased to be a pilot school for the new accreditation protocol, "Ensuring Educational Excellence (E3)," developed by the Western Catholic Educational Association (WCEA). The new WCEA accreditation protocol gives De La Salle High School the opportunity to evaluate the depth of our Catholic identity and Lasallian character. It also promotes substantive, data-driven means to assess the efficacy and vitality of all school programs using multiple sources of evidence. Over the past three school years our school community has focused in a particular way on the concept of “student voice.” The faculty, staff, and administration have reaffirmed our commitment to listening to students with open hearts, minds, and ears. We have expanded and refined opportunities for students to reflect with us in a thoughtful and discipline-focused way on their experiences in the classroom. This school year, students are being asked to provide classroom specific feedback to their instructors mid-semester in each and every class. Students and faculty are reporting that the process is opening up meaningful new channels of communication resulting in refinements to classroom organization, instruction, and assessment practice that are helpful for teachers and students alike. One of the crucial components of this new accreditation protocol is the administration of an annual general student survey. We welcome this opportunity to ask students new questions about their experiences within and beyond the classroom. We will be asking students for feedback about co-curricular activities and clubs, the athletic program, the counseling program, the campus ministry program, and the degree to which they experience a Catholic, Lasallian climate of respect, scholarship, high achievement, and genuine care. Due to the fundamental importance of these data in our accreditation report, ALL students must complete the E3 Student Survey. Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors WILL NOT BE ABLE TO REGISTER FOR CLASSES UNTIL THEIR SURVEY IS COMPLETED. The electronic link for students to take the E3 Student Survey will be available beginning on Sunday, January 11. Students are expected to complete the survey BEFORE they see their counselor for registration or by the second week of February – whichever comes first. The survey will take most students approximately 30 minutes. The survey will be open 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. Students may take the survey on any mobile device or desktop computer at home or away from school. The following venues will be available for students to complete the survey when they are on-campus:

E3 Student Survey Venues On-Campus De La Salle Library Computers and space available before school, at

Break, Lunch, and After School until 5pm Monday-Thursday and until 3:30pm on Friday (Priority computers will be set aside for students taking the student survey.)

Study Skills Classes All study skills classes will reserve at least one day to allow students to complete the survey in class

Bishop Cummins Office Computers will be available with the permission of Mr. MacArthur

Seniors Only—Early Start Survey Day Seniors will be asked to come to school for a special early start Wednesday to complete their survey


6

COLLEGE CENTER

FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOP for parents and guardians of DLS and CHS Seniors (filling out the FAFSA & other financial aid information) Tuesday, December 9, 7:00 pm in the Garaventa Center at Carondelet. * This is an important event for ALL parents of seniors, regardless of whether you believe you will qualify for financial aid or not. COLLEGE PLANNING NIGHT for Parents and guardians of Juniors: Wednesday, February 4, 7:00 p.m. in the DLS Theater. COLLEGE APPLICATIONS: Watch for December and January deadlines for the colleges you are applying to! TEST DATES: SAT Reasoning / Subject: Dec. 6 (Deadline to register has passed) Jan. 24 (Deadline to register Dec. 29) *March 14 (Deadline to register Feb. 13) *May 2 (Deadline to register April 6) *June 6 (Deadline to register May 8) ACT: Dec. 13 (Deadline to register has passed) Feb. 7 (Deadline to register Jan.9) *April 18 (Deadline to register March 13) *June 13 (Deadline to register May 8) *JUNIORS TAKE NOTE: Juniors are strongly advised to wait to take the SAT and ACT until one of these (*) dates. Details about these tests will be discussed in the juniors’ small group meetings and the Junior Parent College Planning night (see below). For questions about these tests before those meetings, please contact one of the college counselors.

IMPORTANT NOTES FOR SENIORS: • The Financial Aid Night on December 9 will provide essential

information about the financial aid process and about completing the financial aid application (FAFSA). There are many advantages to applying for financial aid, regardless of income, including eligibility for merit based awards and for federal parent loans which are not need based but still require the FAFSA. All parents of seniors should plan on attending this important meeting. Please note that this meeting will be held in the Garaventa Center at Carondelet.

• The December test dates are the latest that tests can be taken and reported in time for most college admissions for fall 2015.

• When a deadline has passed, it is possible to register for standby testing for ACT, or to sign up for a wait-list for SAT. See Ms. Lopez or Mrs. Appel in the College Center for details.

• Deadlines for many private colleges and out of state schools fall in early January. Some priority deadlines are in December. Seniors need to carefully calendar the deadlines for schools they are applying to and submit applications online, before the deadline.

• For letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors, please make your requests ASAP, allowing at least 3 weeks before the deadline—not including holidays!

• Remember to order official SAT and/or ACT test scores to be sent to each college.

• Remember to keep a copy of all materials and print out the confirmation page.

• Students still unsure of where they will apply to college need to immediately schedule an appointment with Mrs. Appel or Ms. Lopez.

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS are available in the College Center: An updated list of current scholarship information is available on the Guidance Department page of the DLS website, and on the Naviance website. Students should watch for monthly updates to the list and also access large free internet scholarship search engines such as www.fastweb.com; several of these options are listed at the end of the College Center’s scholarship list. JUNIOR PARENTS’ COLLEGE PLANNING NIGHT is Wednesday, February 4, at 7:00 p.m. in the DLS Theatre. This is the night parents of juniors meet with the College Counselors for specific details regarding the college exploration and selection process. Please mark your calendars for this essential meeting. Please note, this meeting will also include the academic advising information for next year’s course selections for junior parents.

http://www.fastweb.com/


7

PSAT SCORES & PRACTICE ACT SCORES: On Wed., January 14, there will be an early-start Wed. for all juniors and sophomores who will meet at 8:15 a.m. to go over PSAT and Practice ACT test results with the Guidance Department staff. The College Counselors will also re-introduce the juniors to Naviance. SMALL GROUP COLLEGE PLANNING MEETINGS WITH JUNIORS: Starting in mid-January, small groups of juniors will meet with the College Counselors to begin their college search process. These meetings will provide juniors with information about college options and the selection process, admissions requirements, and a planning schedule in preparation for completing college applications in the Fall.

EAST COAST COLLEGES TOUR

2015 Spring Break April 6-12, 2015

Washington-Boston

Program Fee: $2,095 per student participant. Due to the College Center by December 15, 2014- $495 non-refundable Registration Deposit and Permission Form ($100 Late Fee). Program Fee Balance due by March 1.

Program fee includes: Round-trip airfare, Motor Coach transportation, hotel accommodations, professional college

tour leader, college selection workshops and materials, adult supervision, campus visits (student-led tour and information session with admission representatives).

For more details, itinerary, and permission forms: https://sites.google.com/a/dlshs.org/college-

counseling/college-information-for-juniors/east-coast-college-tour

This program is sponsored by a Private College Tour

Company, College Authority. De La Salle is offering this information as a service to our families. Please feel free to contact TCA Director, Mr. Bill Rubin at (949) 371-1111 or

[email protected]. For further assistance, call Ms. Lopez at Ext. 8103 (last names A-K) or Mrs. Appel at Ext. 8128 (last names L-Z).

BUSINESS OFFICE

REMINDER: All outstanding tuition must be current by Monday, December 1, in order for your son to be able to continue attending classes the following week and to complete this semester of classes.

FINANCIAL AID: If you are interested in applying for Financial Aid for the 2015-16 school year, the application will be available online by December 1, 2014. You must complete the form online and submit or mail to PSAS by February 9, 2015. Do not mail to De La Salle – we’re going paperless for financial aid processing! If you need a paper financial aid application, we will provide, just contact Kathy Resch at 925-288-8122 or [email protected].

There will be a Financial Aid Assistance Night on Feb. 5, 2015, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Library for anyone who has questions or requires assistance completing the application.

.

OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT

Parent Annual Fund Campaign - 100% in 100 Days Update Help us reach our goal of 100% in the first 100 days of school! Over 55%* of parents have already participated with a gift to the Annual Fund and we hope you will join our effort. Take Advantage of Valuable Tax Benefits in 2014 As we approach the end of the calendar year, it is a great time to make a financial gift to De La Salle and receive tax benefits for 2014. You may also receive significant tax benefits through your gift of stock, securities or other real property based on the fair market value at the time of the gift. Contact your financial advisor to learn more about the benefits of making a gift of stock or a financial contribution. If you happened to make a pledge at the beginning of the school year, or during our phonathon, don’t forget to fulfill your pledge today so that you receive your charitable deduction for 2014!

https://sites.google.com/a/dlshs.org/college-counseling/college-information-for-juniors/east-coast-college-tour



mailto:[email protected]



8

Make your gift online today: visit Support De La Salle at www.dlshs.org and click Make a Gift Online. If you haven’t yet had a chance to make your gift this year, you can make your gift online through our secure server until midnight December 31 to have your gift acknowledged in 2014 for your tax purposes.

(* Percentages are calculated as of 11/18/14.)

OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS

A BIG THANK YOU to the parents and students who contributed to the success of Open House, November 2. Over 400 families experienced your warm DLS hospitality. We couldn’t have done it without you!

Note Admissions deadlines for 9th grade applicants: Monday, Dec.1 Admissions Applications Due Birth certificate and immunizations Apply online at www.dlshs.org Sat., Jan. 10 Entrance Examination 9:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Students: Arrive by 9:00 a.m. but not before 8:30 a.m. Bring: Two #2 pencils Calculators are not allowed Thurs., Feb. 5 Financial Aid Assistance Night,

5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the DLS Library. Due Fri., Feb.6 Grades, recommendations, and 7th & 8th

grade standardized test scores. (See website for more details and forms.)

Due Monday, February 9 Financial Aid Applications due.

The Financial Aid Application will be available on the DLS website www.dlshs.org December 1.

ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT The 27th Annual Chris Vontoure Spartan Classic will take place December 11-13. This varsity basketball tournament features top competition from all around Northern California. Admission: $8 for adults and $5 for students, seniors and children. Check the DLS website for the brackets. The 18th Annual Martin Luther King Classic: This annual basketball event features top boys’ and girls’ teams from all around Northern California and will take place at the Haas Pavilion at UC Berkeley on January 19. The event schedule is as follows:

18th Annual Martin Luther King Class Event Schedule 10:30 Berkeley vs. El Cerrito, Richmond 12:15 Franklin, Elk Grove vs. Newark 2:00 Salesian, Richmond vs. Saint Mary’s, Stockton 3:45 Sacramento vs. Sacred Heart Prep, San Francisco 5:45 Chaminade, West Hills vs. De La Salle, Concord 7:30 Archbishop Mitty, San Jose vs. Moreau Catholic,

Hayward Please see the website for ticket info and updates. Basketball Season Ticket Info: Welcome to another exciting varsity basketball season. Each season the De La Salle athletic department offers season passes for regular season home games. Regular single game admission is as follows: $8 Adults and $5 seniors/children. These passes are good for one adult/children/senior admission to each home game at a discounted rate. Adult passes are $80 each. Senior/Children passes are $40. They are available for purchase at the bookstore now.

1. November 25 – Bishop O’Dowd 2. December 11 – Chris Vontoure Spartan Classic 3. December 12 – Chris Vontoure Spartan Classic 4. December 13 – Chris Vontoure Spartan Classic 5. December 19 - Alameda 6. January 9 – Granada 7. January 20 – Monte Vista 8. January 23 – San Ramon 9. January 30 - Livermore 10. February 6 – Foothill 11. February 10 – Amador Valley 12. February 20 – California – Senior Night

Note: This pass does not include admission for the Martin Luther King Classic or any playoff games.

http://www.dlshs.org/




9

Winter Sports (Basketball, Soccer and Wrestling) have begun. Schedules are available in the front office, the locker room, and on the DLS webpage. De La Salle Athletic Summer Camps – Information available at www.dlshs.org. Online registration will start on or around 1/1/15! De La Salle Showcase: The De La Salle Soccer Program is hosting its 7th Annual De La Salle Showcase, December 19 and 20, at Owen Owens Field. The field of teams will include state powerhouse teams: Cathedral of Los Angeles (CIF-SS), Gilroy (CCS), San Ramon Valley (NCS), and Junipero Serra (CCS)…just to name a few. The schedule is posted on the school website. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Please come out and support the De La Salle Soccer Program as they play Cathedral of Los Angeles and St. Francis of Mountain View at the De La Salle Showcase!

2014 De La Salle Showcase

December 19-20 Schedule of Games

Friday, December 19: Time Home Away 12:00 p.m. Acalanes vs. Berkeley 2:00 p.m. San Ramon vs. Menlo-Atherton 4:00 p.m. Richmond vs. Bullard, Fresno 6:00 p.m. Cathedral vs. Gilroy 8:00 p.m. De La Salle vs. St. Francis,

Mountain View Saturday, December 20: Time Home Away 10:00 a.m. Sacred Heart vs. San Ramon 12:00 p.m. Bullard vs. Berkeley 2:00 p.m. St. Francis vs. Bishop O’Dowd 4:00 p.m. Menlo Atherton vs.Campolindo 6:00 p.m. Dublin vs. Serra-San Mateo 8:00 p.m. De La Salle vs. Cathedral, Los Angeles *All games will be played at De La Salle High School

www.dlshs.org

Spring Sports (Track & Field, Lacrosse, Golf, Baseball, Tennis, Volleyball, Swimming & Diving) begin Feb. 9. ATHLETIC PHYSICALS: This is a reminder to all student-athletes who plan to participate in all sports. Pre-participation physical examinations are valid for one calendar year only. If your physical is not up to date, make an appointment prior to the start of the season so you will be ready to compete during your season of play. Appointments should not be made during class time. You will not need to fill out forms A-D as you did in previous years. The forms are now included in the online registration process. Freshman athletes have a physical on file in the Registrar’s Office and do not need to have another to play a sport unless that physical expires at any time during participation, inclusive of tryouts and post season play. If a student does not have his physical completed by the first tryout date, he will not be allowed to participate (until the physical and all other paperwork is complete). Forms are available at www.dlshs.org. Completed forms should be taken to the training room. Questions? Contact Mr. Lopoz or Mr. Brown at 288-8144 or 288-8197; [email protected] or [email protected]. NCAA Signings: Michael McAdoo – UC Santa Barbara Myles Coston – Fresno State Justin Hooper – UCLA Tyler Lonestar – St. Mary’s College Kyle Rodney – Bryant University

DEANS AND ATTENDANCE OFFICES

MANDATORY Senior Parent Meeting: Senior parents, please mark your calendar for Wednesday, January 14, at 7:00 p.m., in the Brother Celestine Cormier Theater. This is a mandatory meeting for all senior parents when you will be provided with important information regarding graduation and second semester events. Questions: Contact Mr. Aliotti, Graduation Director, at [email protected] or call (925) 288-8116.








10

CAMPUS MINISTRY It is with the spirit of gratitude and hope the approaching holiday season brings that we in Campus Ministry greet you!

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING RETREAT OPENINGS • KAIROS RETREAT: Senior parents, if your son has

not signed up for a Kairos Retreat, we urge you to talk with him about it. This is a marvelous experience, affording him the opportunity to put his high school experience in the perspective of how he has grown over the past four years in his relationship with God, others and himself. Kairos Retreats tend to fill up quickly, and we don’t want anyone who wants to attend to be left out. Spaces are available on Kairos #93, March 3-6, and Kairos #94, March 24-27. Registration is only available online at:

www.dlshs.org/campus-ministry/retreats and select the retreat link on the right panel for the retreat you want to attend.

• PARENT-SON RETREAT: There are still spaces

available for the Parent-Son Retreat February 20-22, at El Retiro Retreat Center in Los Altos. The retreat is open to students in all grade levels and their parents. It is again first-come, first-served. Registration is only available online at:

www.dlshs.org/campus-ministry/retreats and select the retreat link on the right panel for the retreat you want to attend.

• JUNIOR RETREAT: There are still openings on the

Junior Retreat January 23-24, 2015. The Junior Retreat is an overnight experience focusing on Christian values for the journey in becoming a “Man of Faith.” Online registration: www.dlshs.org/campus-ministry/retreats. and select the retreat link on the right panel for the retreat you want to attend.

• SIP Sophomore Immersion Program: Mr. Castello’s

first period Religious Studies 2 class will travel to St. Anthony’s Dining Room in San Francisco’s Tenderloin for their SIP in San Francisco’s Tenderloin on January 21. Permission forms will be sent home and need to be returned to Mr. Castello by Friday, January 9.

ADVENT TOY DRIVE November 25 through December 18 Our annual Advent Toy Drive to help needy families and their children have a truly Merry Christmas kicked off at our

Thanksgiving Advent Prayer Service on November 25. We ask all members of the DLS community to purchase at least one new toy for a child. DLS students are broken into age groups:

Freshmen 0 - 4 years Sophomores 5 - 7 years Juniors 8 - 10 years Seniors 11 - 13 years

The agencies that benefit ask that toys not promote any kind of violent behavior and be left unwrapped. Mr. Eidson’s frosh Religious Studies class and Lasallian Youth organize this wonderful event each Christmas season. The recipients of the toys include: Bay Area Crisis Nursery, Holiday Helpers Warehouse in Martinez, The Monument Crisis Center, and Saint Vincent de Paul in Pittsburg. The Toy Drive will run through December 18. WALK FOR LIFE: The 11th Annual “Walk for Life” will be held in San Francisco on January 24. The walk is an opportunity to join thousands of women, men and children of goodwill to send a message that abortion harms not only the preborn child but also women and men and their families. Students and their families at De La Salle are invited to attend this walk as a group sponsored by Campus Ministry. Please contact Roger or Mary Hassett in Campus Ministry if you would like to sign up or for more information.

If you have any questions about Campus Ministry activities, please call Mr. or Mrs. Hassett at 288-8119 or 288-8110.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Leadership Class has planned Christmas week from Monday, December 8 through Friday December 12, 2014. The activities include: a visit from Dartmouth College a cappella group, Santa hats, a Christmas scavenger hunt, the Winter Sports Rally, caroling, cookies and milk, pictures with Santa and probably the annual Quad Hockey finals! Monday the 15th is our Christmas at De La Salle to be held in the Gym. It is a special schedule day. Reminder that Monday December 8 is also the feast of the Immaculate Conception with a liturgy on campus.

http://www.dlshs.org/campus-ministry/retreats




11

SENIOR CLASS COUNCIL is preparing for a Winter Dance scheduled for Friday, January 16, here at DLS. Details are still to be determined. Stay tuned!

NEW CLUBS

If you missed the deadline for new clubs in September and you still wish to start a new club for an interest that is not yet being met, please make sure to submit all information needed to Brother Jesús by the end of the day Friday, January 30. Procedures: • Let Brother Jesús or Mr. Dyer know about your club; • Find a moderator on staff; • Ask Brother Jesús to email the club info sheet to the

moderator; • Make sure that all information is in Brother Jesus’

inbox/hands by the end of the day January 30. Any questions please see the Student Life website or Brother Jesús. If your club interest is already being addressed by an existing club, you will be asked to work with that club.

California Scholarship Federation

A reminder to all: Membership in CSF is on a semester basis. Your son MUST apply every semester in September and January in order to qualify for life membership as well attend meetings and participate in activities. If he wants to apply for the Seymour Award Scholarship he must attend at least one conference. Applications, how to fill out an application information, and the new class lists will be available in January on Brother Jesús’ webpage. All applications are due back February 6, 2015. If you have any questions please contact him at [email protected]

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica – Capítulo: “Los

hombres de fe” Spanish Honor Society – Chapter: “The Men of Faith”

The Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (SHH) is an honor society for high school students enrolled in Spanish and or Portuguese, sponsored by the Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese. It was formally organized as the Spanish National Society in 1953. The name was changed to Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica in 1959. At present there are over 2,000 national and international chapters. The purpose of the society is to recognize high achievement of high school students in the Spanish and Portuguese languages and to promote a continuing interest in Hispanic and Portuguese studies.

Membership is open to any De La Salle student who has maintained an honor average in the study of Spanish for a minimum of three semesters and is in the 10th grade or higher. Definition of “honor grade” is: a “B” average in honors, AP courses, or in regular courses along with teacher recommendation. Applications will be available in January from both Mr. Díaz and Brother Jesús, and can be downloaded from Brother Jesus’ website after finals week in December. A $15 society fee will be needed once membership has been granted. Applications are due Friday, January 23. Initiation ceremony for society members will take place on Wednesday, February 11, 2015. Please contact either Mr. Díaz or Brother Jesús with any questions.

ATTENTION SKIERS

AND SNOWBOARDERS! The De La Salle Ski Club is up and running for the 2014-2015 season. This year we are making trips to Squaw Valley (1/31/15), Sugar Bowl (2/21/15) and Northstar (3/21/15). The trips to Squaw Valley and

Sugar Bowl cost $110 and the trip to Northstar is $120. If your son or daughter has a ski pass to any of these resorts the bus ride is $60. Trips are chaperoned by De La Salle Teachers and are a safe way to enjoy a day on the mountain with fellow Spartans and Cougars. All skill levels are welcome, but you must provide your own equipment. Weekly meetings are held on Friday at lunch in Room 408. Permission forms and more information are available on Mr. Shively’s webpage on the De La Salle website.

THE MODEL UNITED NATIONS CLUB

On Nov. 7 and 8, thirteen students from De La Salle joined over 250 other area high school students in the Contra Costa Model United Nations. This was De La Salle’s 14th year participating. Our students represented France and Saudi Arabia. The conference lasted two days starting at 3:30 p.m. on Friday and concluding at 4 p.m. on Saturday. In preparing for the competition, each delegate researched the United Nations, the nation they represented, and the issues that were scheduled for discussion. At the competition, delegates discussed, proposed and debated resolutions for the issues they were assigned. This year our award winners were Olulani Oisaghie, Joseph Kratz and Sam Suri. All of the students attending the conference had a very positive experience. Many of this year’s delegates are already looking forward to the U.C. Berkeley Conference in March.



12

SPARTONICS – DLS ROBOTICS TEAM The DLS Robotics Team has members from both the DLS and Carondelet campuses. We meet in the off-season working on projects and getting organized for the upcoming season. During competition season we work after school, evenings and weekends.

The 2015 building season for the DLS Robotics Team starts January 3. On that day we will be given the challenge for the 2015 competition and receive our kit of parts. We then begin the fast-paced, six-week process of designing and building a robot to meet that challenge. On January 3 you can go to the FIRST USA website to view the competition video: www.usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/frc Our competition this season will be at UC Davis on March 19, 20 and 21. The events are open to the public free of charge. Parents are encouraged to volunteer to help with our competition logistics. Mr. Fryman’s web page on the DLS website has a link to the Robotics Club page which lists things parents can do to help us during the upcoming season. DRIVER’S EDUCATION CLASSES: If you would like to register for third or fourth quarter classes, applications are available from Mr. Bradford in Room 201. For third quarter registration, be sure to pick up the application during the first week after Christmas vacation. The $150 fee is due with the registration form on the first day of class. Classes are held during 7th period, Monday through Thursday, for the entire quarter. This is classroom instruction only, and there is a state-mandated minimum attendance requirement.

CEREAL DRIVE With a huge THANK YOU to the Spartan Community for providing 3,109 boxes of cereal to Saint David’s Pantry in Richmond. Cereal is the #1 food on the Saint David’s Pantry request list. It’s a fact: Breakfast cereal is a convenient and healthy snack; yet, for the poor, it may be unattainable.

DE LA SALLE and CARONDELET HIGH SCHOOL Department of Visual & Performing Arts

proudly present

A Christmas Concert

featuring the

Carondelet/De La Salle Choirs Ms. Amy Hayner, Director

& De La Salle/Carondelet Bands Mr. Larry B. Colón, Director

Wednesday, December 10

7:00 p.m.

Carondelet High School Garaventa Center

FREE ADMISSION

Calling DLS Moms to Pray: If you are not praying for your son, who is? See what God can do for your children and their school when you are faithful to pray on a regular basis. Come and pray with the DLS Moms in Prayer group. We meet in Walnut Creek every Wednesday, at 9:30 a.m., at the St. John Vianney Catholic Church Library in Mullen Common, to pray scripturally for our sons, DLS, our teachers and administrators. For more information, please call Ellen Dobin at (925) 962-0014. “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” - Matt. 18:20

http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/frc


13

PARENTS’ CORNER

ATTENTION SENIOR PARENTS! Order forms for cap and gown and

graduation announcements were sent home a few weeks ago with your son. There is no charge

for the cap and gown. Every senior MUST order one. Graduation announcements are optional, but they must be ordered by the deadline. If you have questions, contact Mr. Aliotti at [email protected] or (925) 288-8116. DON’T MISS THIS VERY IMPORTANT DATE! Because of our early graduation date, orders must be finalized before Christmas break.

USE OF DE LA SALLE FACILITIES

ANY group that plans to hold an event on campus MUST have their activity approved through our Facilities Use Committee. Our Committee meets on Monday mornings to review requests. Requests must be submitted two weeks in advance. Event/Facility Request forms are available in the Main Office or on the DLS website.

Save the Date!

Enjoy a delicious brunch with your son and friends while creating another special De La Salle memory.

Senior Mother/Son Liturgy & Brunch

Sunday, March 8

at De La Salle

Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for the New Year!

SPARTAN BOOKSTORE

ONLINE SHOPPING IS AVAILABLE at www.dlsbookstore.org Bookstore Hours: Monday: 7:30 am – 3:15 pm Tuesday: 7:30 am – 3:15 pm Wednesday: 8:30 am – 3:15 pm Thursday: 7:30 am – 3:15 pm Friday: 7:30 am – 2:45 pm Holiday Hours: December 15th 7:30am – 3:15 pm December 16th 7:30am – 2:00 pm December 17th 7:30am – 2:00 pm December 18th 7:30am – 2:00 pm December 19th 7:30am – 2:00pm December 22nd 9:00am – 2:00pm December 23rd 9:00am – 2:00pm First Semester Book Returns: All freshman students MUST return their Physical Science book or First Aid/CPR book to their teacher after they finish their final exam. Freshman second semester books will be distributed in class in January once first semester books have been accounted for, or the lost book fee has been paid. Basketball: Season Passes are currently on sale in the bookstore. Adults: $80; students/seniors: $40. Christmas Shoppers: Spread some cheer by giving your loved ones Christmas gifts from the De La Salle Bookstore! Stop by soon for the best selection – we quickly sell out of popular items such as pajama pants, sweatshirts, blankets, and hats. Online Christmas Shopping: Would you rather do your Christmas shopping from the comfort of your own home? Good news – our website has a wide selection of items to choose from! Send gifts to your loved ones directly from us and avoid long lines at the post office! From Dec 1 – Dec 12, everything on the website is 15% off – Merry Christmas from the De La Salle Bookstore!


http://www.dlsbookstore.org/


14

For the fifth year, Coach O’Meara and the DLS Lacrosse team sponsored the St. Vincent de Paul- St. Francis of Assisi Thanksgiving Food Distribution. This year the lacrosse team raised over $3,400 for their turkey drive. This enabled the Food Pantry to provide over 150 Thanksgiving baskets to the needy, feeding over 650 hungry Concord residents. The lacrosse team over the past five years has included over $14,500 in donations and over 400 hours of volunteer time by the DLS Lacrosse student/athletes to this program.


15

2015 Crab Feed

January 24, 2015 De La Salle: 6:00-11:00pm

Volunteers Needed!!! Planning to attend the crabfeed and want to help out? Don’t like crab but enjoy getting together

with friends for a cocktail? Didn’t get a ticket but still want to enjoy the evening? Why not volunteer? There are several jobs that need to be filled to make the event a success.

Shifts are a few hours and when its over you can stay and enjoy the rest of the evening. A sign up genius will be emailed out after ticket sales. Let us know if you want to participate by sending an

email to Crab Feed Volunteer Lead Janice Kelso at [email protected]

Event Questions? Please contact Crab Feed Chair Michele Pitek [email protected]



16

Save the Date! A Taste of De La Salle Thursday, April 16, 2015

6:00 to 9:00 p.m. $45 per person You don’t want to miss this wonderful evening filled with wine, food, good friends. This year’s event features wine tastings from many wineries in the Napa, Livermore and Central Valley and food samplings from local restaurants and caterers. We hope that you can join us! Questions? Contact Lauren Seeno at 925-288-8184 or [email protected]



17

Save the Date

An Evening in the Emerald City

De La Salle FETE Auction

“Furthering Education Through Excellence”

Saturday, March 14, 2015

Diablo Country Club

Diablo, CA

For more information or to volunteer please contact Maureen Vierengel 925-288-8181 or [email protected]



18

DE LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL 2014-2015 CALENDAR FRAMEWORK

August 4 New Faculty/Staff Orientation/Academic Affairs Council August 5-6 New Faculty Orientation

Classroom “Move In” Day for Faculty August 7 Faculty/Staff Retreat August 8 Faculty Professional Day (No Classes) Aug. 8, 9 and 11 Textbook Distribution Days August 11 Faculty Professional Day (No Classes)

New Students/Parents Orientation (Evening) August 12 Student Orientation August 13 First Day of Classes (12:15P Dismissal)

September 1 Labor Day Holiday September 4 “Back-to-School” Night for Parents (6:30P) September 26 Diocese of Oakland Professional Development (No Classes)

October 9 First Quarter Ends October 10 Faculty Professional Day (No Classes) October 13 Columbus Day Holiday

November 2 Admissions Open House (10A-12P) November 10 Holiday for Veterans’ Day Observance November 14 Faculty Professional Day/No Classes November 26-28 Thanksgiving Holidays

December 16-18 Semester Examinations December 18 Quarter 2 Ends December 19 Student Christmas Vacation Begins

January 8-9 Faculty Professional Days (No Classes) January 12 Second Semester Classes Begin January 19 MLK Holiday

February 13 Faculty Professional Day (No Classes) February 16 Presidents’ Day Holiday

March 12 Quarter 3 Ends March 31 Student Easter Vacation Begins At Dismissal Time

April 13 Classes Resume

May 24 Graduation/Grad Night May 25 Memorial Day Holiday May 29-June 2 Semester Examinations June 4-5 Faculty Professional Days (No Classes)

Documents

SPARTAN SPOTLIGHT NEWSLETTER DECEMBER …JANUARY 2015 10 Entrance Exam for Incoming Freshmen, 9-12:30 12 2nd Semester Begins – CLASSES RESUME E3 Student Survey Begins to January