Spring 2015 - Roncalli High School · 2015. 2. 12. · Senior . Abby Whalen was named the...

Spring 2015

Update Magazine is published by the Office of Institutional Advancement under the direction of Terese R. Carson, Vice President for Institutional Advancement. Its intent is to be a vehicle to inform alumni, family and friends of recent and upcoming happenings and achievements at the school, as well as showcase the talents and gifts of its students and alumni. Editor-in-Chief: Terese Carson | Deputy Editors: Rachel Brown and Gary Armbruster R’81 | Design Director: Kory Marks | Inquiries/Correspondence: Fran Davey, Roncalli High School, 3300 Prague Road, Indianapolis, IN 46227, (317) 787-8277 ext. 238 [email protected] Website: www.roncalli.org Circulation: 13,500

Email: [email protected]

FOR EDITORIAL INFORMATION, CONTACT TERESE CARSON AT (317) 787-8277, EXT. 240 OR [email protected]

MISSION STATEMENTAs a Catholic high school, our pledge

is to provide, in concert with parents, parish and community, an educational opportunity which seeks to form Christian leaders in body, mind and spirit.

Guided by prayer and the Gospel values of faith, love and justice, students are challenged to respond to the call of discipleship and to fulfill their potential as lifelong learners in service to others.

Our end is to make God’s love complete among us.

ADMINISTRATIONPRESIDENT:Joseph D. Hollowell Hon'97PRINCIPAL:Charles Weisenbach R‘79VICE PRESIDENT FORINSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT: Terese R. CarsonASSISTANT PRINCIPAL FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS: James KedraASSISTANT PRINCIPAL FOR STUDENT ACTIVITIES: Shellie Hartford Hon'14DEAN OF STUDENTS: Tim Puntarelli Hon'99GUIDANCE CO-DIRECTORS: Shelly Fitzgerald R'91 & Lynn Starkey Hon'07ATHLETIC DIRECTOR: Dave Toner C‘67VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE AND FACILITIES: Dave Gervasio R‘85VICE PRESIDENT OF MISSION AND MINISTRY: Robert Tully Hon'93CHAPLAIN: Father Jim Wilmoth Hon'11

inside this edition

TABLE OF CONTENTSPoint Of View ..................................................................................................................................... 2Anderson Appointed To Youth Leadership United ............................................................................. 3Smith Receives Kiwanis Award ......................................................................................................... 3Brain Game ........................................................................................................................................ 3Three Scouts Earn Pope Pius XII Award ............................................................................................. 3Introducing The Class Of 2015 Valedictorian & Salutatorian .............................................................. 4Students Honored For Helping Special Needs Children ..................................................................... 5Brown Wins Lorenzano Scholarship .................................................................................................. 6Kratsios Inducted Into Scholar Society ............................................................................................. 6Two Seniors Named National Merit Finalists...................................................................................... 6A Word With Wilmoth .........................................................................................................................7Roncalli Students Help The Needy .................................................................................................... 8Carolers Spread Christmas Cheer ..................................................................................................... 9Roncalli Club Earns United Way Grant ............................................................................................... 9Roessler A Champion In Cattle Showing ........................................................................................... 10Performing Artists Earn Gold At State Competition ...........................................................................11Talented Students Strut Their Stuff .................................................................................................. 12Roncalli Ushers In Christmas Season With Concerts ........................................................................ 12Thespians Excel At Indiana Thespians Conference .......................................................................... 13Saint Nicholas Visits Roncalli ........................................................................................................... 14Roncalli Celebrates French National Week ....................................................................................... 14World Language Students Help Haiti ................................................................................................ 14Canine Companion Helps Roncalli Life Academy Students............................................................... 15Members Of The 2015 Hall Of Fame Silver Anniversary Team ............................................................ 15The Produce Mom Teaches Roncalli Students .................................................................................. 16MacFarlane Inspires Roncalli Students ............................................................................................ 16Uniform Sale..................................................................................................................................... 16Roncalli Sends Christmas Cards To 700 Deployed Military ............................................................... 17Cabalan, Yohler And Wright Earn Top Writing Awards ...................................................................... 17Students To Study Abroad ............................................................................................................... 18Speech Team To Compete At State ................................................................................................... 19Roncalli Report Card ....................................................................................................................... 20Advancement Angle .........................................................................................................................27What Catholic Education Means To Means ...................................................................................... 29Winter Sports In Review .................................................................................................................. 30Athletic Signings ............................................................................................................................. 36Welcome New Head Coaches ...........................................................................................................37Seniors Versus Faculty Basketball Game Supports St. Elizabeth’s Home ........................................37Students Host Prom For Residents Of St. Paul’s Hermitage ............................................................ 38Roncalli Seniors Take Over In Annual Senior Assist Day .................................................................. 38Bruster's Bits .................................................................................................................................. 39Basketball League Returns ............................................................................................................. 401965 Sacred Heart Central Graduates Invited To Graduation ........................................................... 40Mark Henninger R’92 Honored As Coach Of The Year ....................................................................... 41Rebel Round Up ................................................................................................................................ 41First-Ever San Damiano Servant Leadership Award Winner ............................................................ 42University Of Evansville Study Abroad Program Includes Three Rebel Alumnae ..............................43Alumni Nominations Needed ............................................................................................................44Class Notes ......................................................................................................................................45The Last Word ................................................................................................................................ 49

1 UPDATE MAGAZINE SPRING 2015

St. John XXIII and Divine Mercy Sunday will forever be connected for this was the day that Good Pope John was canonized nearly a year ago last April. On the Circle in front of Roncalli you may have noticed two pictures that were erected last summer. One is a picture of Pope John as he walked the streets of Rome. The other is a picture of the Divine Mercy image of Jesus as he asked it to be produced.

Several years ago I became aware of the life of Sister Faustina Kowalska and the devotion that she promoted known as the Divine Mercy Chaplet and Novena. This set of prayers was revealed to Sister Faustina through the course of a number of visions that she had of Jesus Christ. These visions also included extensive conversations with Jesus. Her Spiritual Director, Fr. Michael Sopocko, asked Sister Faustina to keep a record of these conversations in writing which Sister did. This “diary”, which was later published, contains over 600 pages comprising a detailed record of her visions and conversations.

Jesus’ primary message to Sister Faustina was a message of mercy and forgiveness for all. My favorite quote from Sister's diary is "your sins are consumed by my mercy like dry straw in a raging fire". That's the kind of mercy I need!

In the course of the visions, which took place over a period of seven years from 1931 until her death in 1938, Jesus revealed to Sister two primary things He wanted her to make known to the world. These were 1) a vision of Himself that He asked her to paint - a version of which is seen on this page and 2) a specific prayer of devotion that

He asked her to make known to the world. It was a long journey to finally attain the image – she could not draw or paint try as she might. She finally found a person to do it for her and coached him to get to the version now seen around the world. She also had great difficulty making the devotion known. That was left to her famous countryman Karol Wojtyla who assisted in the growing knowledge and spread of the Divine Mercy devotion after he became Pope John Paul II.

It was quite fitting that Pope John Paul II was also canonized on Divine Mercy Sunday which Jesus proclaimed to be the name He wanted for the

Sunday following Easter. The general knowledge and recognition of this feast is still growing in the Church around the world. I would like to invite you to consider praying this devotion or perhaps even the Divine Mercy Novena some time during the Easter season that ends at the Feast of Pentecost.

A devotion is a special type of prayer that at one time used to be a much more popular form of prayer among Catholics. There has been a de-emphasis of the use of devotions in the Catholic Church since the Second Vatican Council. I think this was because a number of Catholics at that time were considering some devotions more important and more powerful than receiving Jesus in the Eucharist. Growing up in the Church at that time, I can tell you that was quite possibly the case. The pendulum has now swung back the other way and there seems to be an increase again in the use of devotions in the prayer lives of Catholics around the world today. I hope each of you will become aware of this very special prayer and image that Jesus gave to the world and that two saints in heaven – St. Faustina and St. John Paul II – went to extraordinary lengths to see that we know about this prayer.

My gut is telling me that their heroic efforts tell us that it is important that we know.

JOE HOLLOWELLPRESIDENT

Divine Mercy

RONCALLI • SACRED HEART CENTRAL • CHARTRAND • KENNEDY MEMORIAL 2

ANDERSON APPOINTED TO YOUTH LEADERSHIP UNITED

Sophomore Jonny Anderson was one of 25 high school students in central Indiana selected to participate in the United Way of Central Indiana’s Youth Leadership United.

As a member of this group, Anderson will serve alongside adults on nonprofit boards and

committees. The goal of Youth Leadership United is to develop and nurture potential community leaders and to increase young leaders’ knowledge and understanding of the nonprofit sector of the community.

The five-month program will cover topics such as leadership, philanthropy and giving, board responsibilities, community needs and a service project.

SMITH RECEIVES KIWANIS AWARD

Roncalli High School senior Zach Smith was honored Thursday, February 12, 2015 at the Kiwanis Club of Indianapolis’ annual Abe Lincoln Awards luncheon.

The program celebrates students who have overcome adversity while

achieving success. Smith was one of 25 area high school seniors who received the Kiwanis Circle of Valor Award. He is the son of Jeffrey and Rebecca Smith.

BRAIN GAMEThe Roncalli Brain Game team made it to the final 16 out of 48 teams before being defeated by Pike. Participants this year were Nicholas Marino, Adam Schubach, Nate Reeves, Cameron Wright, Hannah Fikes, Barbara Kratsios and Liam Collier.

THREE SCOUTS EARN POPE PIUS XII AWARD

Roncalli students (left to right) Spencer Jewula, Connor Cleary and Louie Hibner were recognized at SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral for having earned the Pope Pius XII religious award. All three have earned the previous three scouts’ Catholic religious awards: Light of Christ, Parvuli Dei, and Ad Altare Dei. Only about 4% of the young men who enter scouting earn the coveted rank of Eagle Scout. The percentage earning all four Catholic religious emblems is less than that. Great job Connor, Louie and Spencer - we are proud of you!


Senior Abby Whalen was named the Valedictorian and senior Sarah Elam was named Salutatorian for the Roncalli High School class of 2015.

Whalen chose the most rigorous coursework and earned no less than

an A- throughout her high school career. She was also a National Merit Finalist, an AP Scholar with Distinction and earned a

perfect score on the Reading and Science sections of the ACT. Outside

of the classroom, Whalen participated in Varsity Track and Field, Varsity Cheerleading, Mock Trial, Student Council, Hoosier Girls State and the Archdiocesan Youth Council. Whalen is in the process of considering her college options but her goal is to attend medical school and specialize in neurosurgery.

She is the daughter of Rob and Liz Whalen and they are parishioners at Ss. Francis & Clare Catholic Church.

Elam challenged herself academically by taking six Advanced Placement courses

and did not receive a grade lower than an A on her transcript. She was a four-year member of the Spanish Club and spent six weeks studying

in Leon, Spain through the Indiana University Honors program. She will

major in International Studies and minor in Spanish, but has not yet chosen which college she will attend. Elam, daughter of Matt and Kim Elam, is a graduate of St. Barnabas Catholic School.

I N T R O D U C I N G T H E C L A S S O F 2 0 1 5

Valedictorian & Salutatorian


STUDENTS HONORED FOR HELPING SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN

Eight Roncalli High School students were honored with the Anna’s Celebration of Excellence Award for their achievements in helping children with special needs. Anna’s Celebration of Life Foundation hosted their annual Rock the Night for Special Needs event in December at the Atrium. Each year, they honor those who display excellence in the

advocacy, awareness, volunteerism and fundraising for Indiana kids with special needs.

The honored Roncalli seniors on the Youth Board of Directors for Anna’s Celebration of Life Foundation were Annie Schrader, Kelly Schubach, Joe Gervasio, Zach Smith, Kaleigh Wilham, Bailey Ransburg, Emily

Murphy and Julia Martinez. In 80 days, the Youth Board raised over $6,000 by creating the first Midnight Mile event and recruited over 300 other students to join the cause. They also inspired a new Northside Youth Board that will begin work for Anna’s Celebration of Life Foundation in 2015.

Anna’s Celebration of Life Foundation


Zach Smith

Julia Martinez

Annie Schrader

Kelly Schubach

Joe Gervasio

Emily Murphy

Kaleigh Wilham

Bailey Ransburg

BROWN WINS LORENZANO

SCHOLARSHIP

For the third consecutive year, the family of Private John Lorenzano has provided a scholarship in his memory. Private Lorenzano was killed in the line of duty February

5, 1992 responding to a fire at the Indianapolis Athletic Club.

Roncalli students that have a firefighter for a parent are asked to write an essay to be eligible to receive the award. This year, the Lorenzano family selected Justin Brown, Roncalli Class of 2016, as the recipient of the $750 scholarship. Justin's father, Jeff, has been a firefighter since 1991.

KRATSIOS INDUCTED INTO SCHOLAR SOCIETY

Senior Barbara Kratsios has been accepted into the National Society of High School Scholars. This organization not only recognizes academic achievement but also helps its members

with scholarships, leadership development, internships and

employment opportunities.

“I know my affiliation with this society will help me with college planning and possible scholarships,” said Kratsios.

Kratsios is a member of the Spell Bowl, Academic Superbowl and Brain Game teams at Roncalli as well as a five year volunteer in the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis’ Apprentice Program where she helps plan events. She is the daughter of Dr. Emmanual and Irene Kratsios.

Roncalli seniors Rachel McKay and Abby Whalen have been named 2015 National Merit Finalists.

This academic distinction, earned by less than 1% of the best and brightest seniors in the country,

qualifies them for a variety of National Merit Scholarships. McKay is the daughter of Michael

and Geri McKay. Whalen is the daughter of Rob and Liz Whalen.

NATIONAL MERIT FINALISTS

Two Seniors Named


Fr. Jim Wilmoth, Chaplain

For example, when I was in first grade, Sister Ann Patrice started every day leading us in prayer for the canonization of Mother Theodore Guerin. Obviously, all those prayers were answered. It became evident to me that God truly listens to our prayers and answers them in ways that are best for all of us. As young kids, we were encouraged to practice daily prayer in the mornings, in the evenings and throughout the day, as there was a special intention for which we prayed. We were given that confidence that our prayers would be answered. The power of prayer is a tremendous power.

Throughout my life as a priest, I have wonderful proof of the power of prayer. I am sure the same is true for you. That connection with God is a real comfort and a peaceful reality for us. Knowing of God’s presence in our lives helps us to be confident to speak with God and present our prayer to God. What a gift that truly is for us.

Let me tell you of the proof positive of what I have said. As you may

know, I entered the hospital the last of December with bleeding. After several tests, the doctors determined that the bleeding could not be stopped without surgery. On the evening of January 5th, I was taken to surgery and he indicated that my family should be called to the hospital. Of course I was under sedation and didn’t know of the severity of the situation. I was in the hospital the month of January. Another little bump in the road came my way. All I can tell you is this -- I received piles of cards telling me of prayers for my recovery. These prayers came from young people in our schools and from people all over who heard what was going on with me. I want you to know of my gratitude and appreciation to all of you. There was never a doubt in my mind of the power of prayer and I have experienced that power in my life over the past few weeks. Because of the prayers for me, God listened and helped me to be healed and on the road to recovery.

What I learned as a little boy from the Sisters of Providence comes

back to me every day. God is with us and listens to our prayers. God gives to us his love and peace as we go through our daily lives. What a blessing!

I want to thank all the nurses, doctors and aides who gave me the best attention and care that I could ever imagine. St. Francis Hospital was outstanding in my care and help.

Through the intercession of St. John XXIII, may God continue to guide and bless all of you and all of the Roncalli family.

Bless your hearts, Father Jim Wilmoth

A Word With

WilmothI can recall having the blessing of the Sisters of Providence during my days at St. Philip Neri grade school. They provided a daily lesson on the importance of prayer in our lives.


Just in time for the holiday season, three different Roncalli High School events aided needy Indianapolis residents.

On November 20th, 15 students from the Roncalli Cooking Club gathered to fix portions of Thanksgiving meals to take to Holy Family Shelter. They whipped up turkey, green bean casseroles, corn bread, stuffing and cranberries to serve 60 people.

Then, on Saturday, November 22nd, students and faculty gathered to load three trucks full of canned food to deliver to St. Vincent de Paul. Students were encouraged to donate 70 cans of food. Samantha Dowell, a Roncalli senior, and her family destroyed their individual can collecting record of 2,000

cans with an incredible 5,015 cans collected.

After loading up the trucks on November 22, students, parents and alumni also participated in a blood drive. The Roncalli community donated over 150 pints of blood.

Roncalli High School students and faculty also collected toys and books for Anna’s House to be given to needy families this Christmas. Over 300 toys and books were collected in the past two weeks for boys and girls ages one to 12 years old.

This is the third year that Roncalli High School’s Life Academy students have coordinated the book portion of the drive. The Life Academy is a program for students with cognitive disabilities who are earning a certificate of completion. These students wrote and delivered the school announcements promoting the drive, made flyers and posted them throughout the halls and then collected the books.

Photo: Roncalli Cooking Club members: (left) Tam Yaung and Lauren Jones

RONCALLI STUDENTSHELP THE NEEDY


RONCALLI CLUB EARNS UNITED WAY GRANT

The Roncalli High School ethnic eating club was one recipient of the “Youth as Resources” service project grant from the United Way of Central Indiana. The $1,270 grant was given at the “Youth as Resources Kick-Off Ceremony” on Thursday, January 8 at the Jewish Community Center of Indianapolis.

The club members submitted a three-page grant proposal that included a budget plan for their project and presented their proposal to the United Way Board.

This grant will offset the ethnic eating club’s service project at the Lord’s Pantry. They will serve dinner at the Lord’s Pantry on six different evenings in 2015.

“The ethnic eating club is about trying new foods but we know that some people can’t put food on the table. We wanted to be awarded the grant to help those families,” said junior Michael Saling, one of the club’s presidents.

CAROLERS SPREAD CHRISTMAS CHEERA group of 30 students and faculty spread holiday cheer December 4 when they travelled to local nursing homes to sing Christmas carols. The jolly group visited residents at The Waters of Indianapolis, The Altenheim and St. Paul’s Hermitage to share their beautiful singing voices.

“I am not sure who has more fun, the Roncalli students or the residents at the nursing homes. It is such a blessing to watch the smiles on all the faces, both young and old,” said Shellie Hartford, Roncalli’s Assistant Principal for Student Activities.

The Rebel Buddies Club was well represented at the annual holiday outing. This club pairs Roncalli students with students in Roncalli’s Life Academy program. The Life Academy is a program that serves students with disabilities.

Photo (left to right): Junior Michael Saling and Faculty moderator, Ed Keller R'99.


Senior Sara Roessler has been involved in the livestock industry her entire life. This is her tenth and final year in 4-H of Hendricks County. She shows goats, swine and beef cattle. She was named the 2014 Hendricks County Fair Grand Champion of the born and raised steer competition.

This year she had the pleasure of working with and showing three calves: an Angus steer (Thunder), crossbreed steer (Diesel) and an Angus heifer (Penny). Sara will attend over 17 shows throughout the year including the state and county fairs, and multiple open shows.

Showing animals has taught her a great amount, most importantly responsibility. There are no days off. She wakes at 5am every day to feed her animals before school. She also must feed them when she gets home, keep their water full, pens cleaned and the calves washed.

As this year’s president of the Hendricks County 4-H Beef Club, Sara is able to help younger members and beginners with their projects all while juggling ten projects of her own.

“The livestock industry has changed my life and I can’t thank my parents enough for the opportunity,” said Roessler.

Sara will study Agri-Business at the University of Kentucky in the fall. She is the daughter of Andrew and Dianna Roessler.

Photo: (black and white): Sara Roessler with Tucker, the 2014 Grand Champion angus steer at the Hendricks County 4-H Fair.

Photo: (color. Left to right): Katie and Andy Brock stand with Sara Roessler and steer, Tucker, at the 2014 Indiana State Fair.

ROESSLER A CHAMPION IN CATTLE SHOWING


T H E P E R F O R M I N G A R T S

SIX VOCALISTS, FIVE BAND MEMBERS EARN GOLD AT STATE COMPETITIONSix Roncalli High School vocalists and five band members earned gold ratings at the Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA) state competitions. The vocal competition took place on Saturday, February 21. The vocalists earning this distinction are: juniors Federica Sanchez, Maria Hollowell and Sarah Barron and seniors Jordan Frederick, Doug Johnston and Patrick Ralston.

The five Rebel band members who competed in ISSMA competition at North Central High School on February 28 also earned gold ratings, the highest one can earn. The soloists were junior Matt McKay-flute, senior Cameron Papandria- alto saxophone, junior Will Haman -tenor saxophone, sophomore Chloe Owen- French horn and senior Nicky Marino - xylophone.

Front (left to right): Sarah Barron, Maria HollowellMiddle (left to right): Nicky Marino, Patrick Ralston and Chloe Owen

Back (left to right): Matt McKay, Cameron Papandria and Will HamanNot Pictured: Federica Sanchez, Jordan Frederick and Doug Johnston



RONCALLI USHERS IN CHRISTMAS SEASON WITH CONCERTSThe Roncalli High School band and choral programs spread the joy of Christmas to sold out audiences Sunday, December 7.

Beginning Women’s Chorus, Beginning Mixed Chorus, Advanced Women’s Chorus and Rebel Rhapsody show choir each performed at the concert. They delighted the

crowd with the Michael Buble arrangement of “Jingle Bells,” “Welcome Christmas” from How the Grinch Stole Christmas and a medley of “Little Drummer Boy” with “Peace on Earth.” The choirs are under the direction of Joey Newton.

The Jazz Band, String Ensemble and Concert Band each performed pieces including “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” “The Christmas Song,” “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” and “Believe” from The Polar Express. Several soloists were featured including: Cameron Papandria, Ben Golab, Matt McKay, Andrew Nover, Will Haman, Kathryhn Witsamin and Adam Schubach. The instrumental concert ended with a Christmas sing-along to a medley of Christmas favorites. The bands are under the direction of Kathy Peach.

TALENTED STUDENTS STRUT THEIR STUFFRoncalli High School students had two different venues to showcase their talents on Thursday, December 11. One event was hosted in the Roncalli High School media center and the other was at St. Paul’s Hermitage.

The Roncalli media center was transformed into The Coffee House where six student acts and one faculty act performed while the audience enjoyed cookies and hot chocolate. Musical acts included: Peter LaMonaca, Adam Eads, Jaylen Koehl and CJ Huegel, Will Allen, Michael Shirley and Adam Wolf, Abby and Lydia Bowling and the Roncalli faculty. Shayla Cabalan also read excerpts from three of her original pieces.

The Roncalli Pro Life Club entertained residents of St. Paul’s Hermitage in the evening with a mix of holiday sing-alongs and other musical numbers. Performers included Spencer Grow, Micah Attai, Katherine Spees, Lydia Bowling, Nicky Marino, Zack Taylor,

Maddie Whalen, Adam Eads, Natalie Stigall, Elana Matlock and Haley Peeler.

Advanced Women's Chorus singing "Welcome Christmas" opened the performance.

Some talented Roncalli faculty entertained with “All I Want for Christmas is You.”


RONCALLI THESPIANS EXCEL AT

INDIANA THESPIANS CONFERENCE

Roncalli High School theater students showcased their talents at the Indiana Thespians Conference. The three-day conference was held January 23-25 at the University of Indianapolis and awarded students for work on and off the stage.

Roncalli High School students Connor Cleary, Michael McClellan, Chris Golab and Hannah Roberts were cast in the Indiana Thespians state theater production of “Footloose,” which will be performed at next January’s state conference.

The Rebel tech team, who was led by senior Elliott May, earned two first place and two second place finishes in the “Tech Olympics.” Bringing home awards were: Brendan Bard, Corbin Hunt, Matt Long, Andy Reel, first place in curtain folding, Corbin Hunt, first place in knot tying, Matt Long, second place in lighting and Andy Reel, second place in prop

quick change.

The Rebels were outstanding on the stage as well. Winning performers were: Patrick Ralston, Excellent Ribbon in experienced monologue, Taylor Townsend, Excellent Ribbon in novice solo musical, Doug Johnston, Excellent Ribbon in experienced solo musical, Jordan Frederick, Superior Ribbon in experienced solo musical, Sarah Barron, Excellent

Ribbon in experienced solo musical and Anna Madden, Superior Ribbon in costume design.


Footloose cast members: Front: Hannah Roberts and Michael McClellanBack: Chris Golab and Connor Cleary

Photo (left to right) front row: Elliott May, Jordan Frederick, Hannah Roberts, Taylor Townsend, Anna Maddenback row: Doug Johnston, Michael McClellan, Patrick Ralston, Andy Reel, Brendan Bard


SAINT NICHOLAS VISITS RONCALLIRoncalli High School had a special visit from St. Nicholas during its lunch periods in December. The German Club arranged for St. Nicholas to make an appearance. The students donated a dollar to get their pictures taken with old St. Nick and the proceeds support Roncalli’s Toy Drive.

students tried their hand making this French dessert staple and had their choice of chocolate or strawberry.

The celebration continued with Rolls-Royce Canadian HR Director Brian Dore presenting the history of French speaking Montreal, Canada and concluded with a French mime, Beverly Roche, teaching the students the techniques of mime.

WORLD LANGUAGE STUDENTS HELP HAITI

For the 16th year in a row, Roncalli High School world languages department students and faculty collected toiletries, clothing and supplies for the parishioners of Belle-Riviere, Haiti. This year the students’ effort totaled 60, 40-gallon garbage bags full of items. Indianapolis resident, Joe Zelenka, who has made over sixty medical mission trips to this location will personally deliver all the supplies that the Roncalli students gathered.

RONCALLI CELEBRATES FRENCH NATIONAL WEEKFrench classes celebrated French National Week with events Monday, November 24 to Wednesday, November 26, 2014. The week kicked off deliciously with Chef Lauren Day from the Chef ’s Academy teaching the students how to make crepes. The

Chef Lauren Day watches Jordan Frederick try her hand at making crepes.

Photo (left to right): sophomores Grant Duncan and Cassidy Mattingly

Photo (left to right seated): St. Nicholas (Senior, Kevin Lemmel), Morgan O’Brien, Caroline Armbruster. (Standing left to right): Sophia Miller and Meredith Opel.


CANINE COMPANION HELPS RONCALLI LIFE ACADEMY STUDENTS You can find Brenda in the Life Academy of Roncalli High School most Friday mornings. She lies calmly in the middle of the circle of students listening to them read stories aloud. Brenda is Ginny O’Brien’s one-year-old golden retriever who has successfully completed her canine companion course work. O'Brien, a Roncalli High School grandparent, brings Brenda in so that Life Academy students can interact with her and learn how to give her commands.

The Life Academy is a program at Roncalli High School for students with cognitive disabilities who are earning a certificate of completion.

Freshman Owen Riggs, and sophomores Anthony Stallings and Katie Strange with Brenda—their canine companion.

Roncalli High School Proudly SalutesKathy Lauck Schreiber ‘90 and Erin Duncan Turk ‘90

Members of the 2015 Hall of Fame Silver Anniversary Team!


MACFARLANE INSPIRES RONCALLI STUDENTS

Craig MacFarlane shared his inspirational story with the Roncalli High School student body on Tuesday, January 14. MacFarlane has succeeded in wrestling, track and field, snow skiing, water skiing and water ski jumping despite being totally blind. He has won multiple national championships in two countries. He is now an internationally sought after speaker and has shared his story at more than 3,000 high schools on three continents.

He framed his total loss of eyesight as nothing more than a minor inconvenience and encouraged the students to achieve their goals through persistence, focus, desire and discipline.

THE PRODUCE MOM TEACHES RONCALLI STUDENTSLori (Paul) Taylor, better known on social media as The Produce Mom, shared her digital marketing expertise with Roncalli High School marketing students on Wednesday, January 14. Taylor, a 1999 Roncalli graduate, created The Produce Mom blog for the Indianapolis Fruit Company. The blog shows consumers how she prepares fresh fruits and vegetables for her family. She also created the “Find Your Favorite” and “Produce Mom Picks” campaigns to increase awareness and consumption of fruits and vegetables.

The success of the online presence of The Produce Mom has also led Taylor to numerous television appearances and print media coverage.

Uniform Sale DatesThursday, July 23 from 4-8 PM and Friday, July 24 from 8 AM - 12 PM

Uniform Polos in red, blue or white $20 Uniform crewneck sweatshirts in gray or navy $25 Uniform 1/4 zip sweatshirts in gray or navy $30.

Any questions can be directed to the Director of the Spirit Store Wendy Lawrie at [email protected] or (317) 787-8277 ext 279.

Lori Taylor, The Produce Mom, talks digital marketing to students at Roncalli High School.

Craig MacFarlane addressed the Roncalli High School student body.


RONCALLI SENDS CHRISTMAS CARDS TO 700 DEPLOYED MILITARYThe World Language classes sent 700 Christmas cards to deployed military this past holiday season. This is the 24th year that the students have participated in this project. Students in Spanish, French and German classes filled the cards with encouraging words and thanked them for their service.

“Over the years, we have received very touching responses from the soldiers who receive these cards,” said Gina Stackhouse, Spanish teacher and World Languages Department Chair. “One soldier

sent us the American flag that was flying at his base in Afghanistan.”

Addresses of the deployed soldiers were provided by Roncalli High School alumni and from the community.

CABALAN, YOHLER AND WRIGHT EARN TOP WRITING AWARDSJunior Shayla Cabalan and sophomore Abby Yohler earned the Gold Key in the Scholastic Writing Awards-Central and Southern Indiana district competition. There were only 32 Gold Key top honor awards given out of more than 300 entries. Sophomore Cameron Wright was one of 40 students awarded the Silver Key and he also earned an Honorable Mention.

Cabalan earned the Gold Key distinction in the science fiction/fantasy category with her entry, First Day. She had two works in the category of dramatic script

that earned Silver Keys and a third entry in dramatic script that earned Honorable Mention.

Yohler earned her Gold Key for her entry in the short story category and Wright earned a Silver Key and

an Honorable Mention in science fiction/fantasy.

All three students were recognized at an awards ceremony at Clowes Hall on the campus of Butler University on Sunday, March 8.

Photo (left to right): Sophomore Abby Yohler, junior Shayla Cabalan and sophomore Cameron Wright

Photo (left to right): Sophomores Austin Dias and Jake Jones write cards


A record number of Roncalli High School students will study abroad with the IU Honors Program this summer. Twelve students will stay with a host family for the entire summer and speak only the native language. Congratulations to the World Languages Department and the following group of students who were selected based on an application and interview:

Front Row: Sarah Barron: Oviedo, Spain Federica Sanchez Febres-Cordero: Saumur, France Sophia McGuire: Leon, Spain

Haley Vandagrifft: Brest, France Morgan Sells: St. Brieuc, France Riley Marshall: Brest, France

Back Row: Michael Armbruster: Ciudad Real, Spain Lauren Jones: Saumur, France Ryan Armstrong: Oviedo, Spain Liam Herbert: Graz, Austria Alex Kane: Ciudad Real, Spain Giovanni Below: Brest, France

STUDENTS

TO STUDYABROAD


The Rebel speech team earned a second place finish in this year’s Sectional competition. This is the best finish in school history.

A special congratulations to the following speech team members who by virtue of their performance have advanced to the 2015 Speech State Finals to be held on Saturday, March 28 at Fishers High School: Maria Hollowell (first in humorous interpretation); Grace Murphy (2nd in humorous interpretation); Ronnie Kawak (2nd in discussion); CJ Huegel (2nd in impromptu speaking); Shayla Cabalan (3rd in

original oratory); Nicholas Plahitko (3rd in radio); Nathan Carpenter (3rd in discussion); Luke Jones (4th in poetry); Brandon Sturdivant (5th in humorous interpretation); Prajedes Briones (6th in original oratory); Rachael Barnhorst and Shayla Cabalan (6th in original performance).

Congratulations as well to Rebel English teachers and coaches, Tristan McGill and Phil Milroy, for their great work with the team this year.

SPEECH TEAM TO COMPETE AT STATE


REPORT C RD R O N C A L L I H I G H S C H O O L

Indiana Department of Education Statistics

PERCENTAGE OF 2013 GRADUATES WITH ANAP TEST SCORE OF AT LEAST A 3

Percentage of 2013 Graduates earning at

least 3 College Credit Hours

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

47%

13%

26%

8%

19% 20%

3%

20%23%

19%

10%

16%

WHI

TELA

ND

SOUT

HPOR

T

PERR

Y M

ERID

IAN

NEW

PAL

ESTI

NE

MAR

TINS

VILL

E

GREE

NWOO

D

FRAN

KLIN

COM

M.

FRAN

KLIN

CEN

TRAL

DECA

TUR

CENT

RAL

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ER G

ROVE

BEEC

H GR

OVE

RONC

ALLI

53.4%RONCALLI

34.2%LOCAL

As parents consider the importance of a college degree for their children, the State of Indiana is focused on helping schools orient their work around better preparing their students for the next level of their education. The Indiana Department of Education has established a goal of having all high schools in Indiana graduating at least 25% of their seniors having scored a 3 or above on at least one Advanced Placement (AP) exam (score range is 1 = lowest to 5 = highest). A score of 3 on an AP exam is generally considered achieving college equivalency in a subject area. As the data below shows, Roncalli High School has far surpassed that goal!

ALetter Grade


40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

END OF COURSE ASSESSMENTS (ECA) COLLEGE & CAREER READINESSIn 2010, the State of Indiana began testing for competency in Sophomore level English and Algebra 1 with a battery of tests known as the End of Course Assessments (ECA). The ECA tests have replaced the ISTEP test as the way in which high school students now must demonstrate their readiness to graduate. Only by passing this exam can students earn a diploma in Indiana. The most recent data from these tests given in the spring of 2013 was recently released on the Indiana Department of Education website and is presented in the charts below.

In addition to AP scores, the state has identified a new measure of a school’s effectiveness. By measuring a combination of AP scores along with the number of students who are graduating from the school having received "dual credit" from their coursework which gives the student both a credit in high school and a credit for three hours of college-level work, the state has developed a new index it refers to as "College & Career Readiness" that it is now publishing on the DOE website.

As you can tell from the graph below, Roncalli is leading the way in effectively preparing its students for the next level of their education.

PERCENTAGE PASSING ECA ALGEBRA

SOUT

HPOR

T

PERR

Y M

ERID

IAN

NEW

PAL

ESTI

NE

MAR

TINS

VILL

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GREE

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FRAN

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CEN

TRAL

DECA

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RAL

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BEEC

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OVE

RONC

ALLI

97%

81%

60%

80%

56%

88%

70%74%

53% 51%55%

PERCENTAGE PASSING ECA ENGLISH

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

WHI

TELA

ND

SOUT

HPOR

T

PERR

Y M

ERID

IAN

NEW

PAL

ESTI

NE

MAR

TINS

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GREE

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RONC

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94%89%

66%

86%

76%87%

81%

89%

72%

60%

77% 72%

WHI

TELA

ND

69%

GRADUATION STATISTICS

88.6%

97.8% 91.1%

GRADUATION RATE

DIPLOMA TYPES

State17.2%

Roncalli0.4%

Local14.8% State

49.3%

Local54.4%

Roncalli49.3%

CORE 40State33.5%

Local30.8%

Roncalli60.7%

HONORSGENERAL

5%

15%

25%

35%

45%

55%

65%

75%

SOUT

HPOR

TPERR

Y M

ERID

IAN

NEW

PAL

ESTI

NE

MAR

TINS

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E

GREE

NWOO

D

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CEN

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DECA

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BEEC

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OVE

RONC

ALLI

71%

35% 37%

59%

43%

54%

42%

19%

56%

WHI

TELA

ND

31%

59%

47%

DIPLOMA TYPESGrade Rate General Core 40 Honors

Roncalli 97.8% .4% 38.9% 60.7%State 88.6% 17.2% 49.3% 33.5%Beech Grove 93.0% 8.2 74.2% 17.6%Center Grove 92.7 15.1 44.6 40.3Decatur Central 82.5 18.3 61.6 20.1Franklin Central 95 6.3 63.6 30.1Franklin Community 92.7 23.0 43.2 33.8Greenwood 94.9 13.5 49.3 37.2Martinsville 93.3 24.7 53.2 22New Palestine 92.3 6.7 45.6 47.7Perry Meridian 90.2 14.8 52.9 32.3Southport 93.3 27.1 49.4 23.5Whiteland 92.5 5.5 60.0 34.5Local Average* 91.1 14.8 54.4 30.8


40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

END OF COURSE ASSESSMENTS (ECA) COLLEGE & CAREER READINESSIn 2010, the State of Indiana began testing for competency in Sophomore level English and Algebra 1 with a battery of tests known as the End of Course Assessments (ECA). The ECA tests have replaced the ISTEP test as the way in which high school students now must demonstrate their readiness to graduate. Only by passing this exam can students earn a diploma in Indiana. The most recent data from these tests given in the spring of 2013 was recently released on the Indiana Department of Education website and is presented in the charts below.

In addition to AP scores, the state has identified a new measure of a school’s effectiveness. By measuring a combination of AP scores along with the number of students who are graduating from the school having received "dual credit" from their coursework which gives the student both a credit in high school and a credit for three hours of college-level work, the state has developed a new index it refers to as "College & Career Readiness" that it is now publishing on the DOE website.

As you can tell from the graph below, Roncalli is leading the way in effectively preparing its students for the next level of their education.

PERCENTAGE PASSING ECA ALGEBRASO

UTHP

ORT

PERR

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ERID

IAN

NEW

PAL

ESTI

NE

MAR

TINS

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GREE

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RONC

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97%

81%

60%

80%

56%

88%

70%74%

53% 51%55%

PERCENTAGE PASSING ECA ENGLISH

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

WHI

TELA

ND

SOUT

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NEW

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94%89%

66%

86%

76%87%

81%

89%

72%

60%

77% 72%

WHI

TELA

ND

69%

GRADUATION STATISTICS

88.6%

97.8% 91.1%

GRADUATION RATE

DIPLOMA TYPES

State17.2%

Roncalli0.4%

Local14.8% State

49.3%

Local54.4%

Roncalli49.3%

CORE 40State33.5%

Local30.8%

Roncalli60.7%

HONORSGENERAL

5%

15%

25%

35%

45%

55%

65%

75%

SOUT

HPOR

TPERR

Y M

ERID

IAN

NEW

PAL

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71%

35% 37%

59%

43%

54%

42%

19%

56%

WHI

TELA

ND

31%

59%

47%


ACT STATISTICS FOR 2012

PERCENTAGE OF GRADUATES TAKING ACT

ACT SCORES

90.0%RONCALLI

29.1%LOCAL

Roncalli Local Indiana

21 22 23 24

MATHSCORE

ENGLISHSCORE

COMPOSITESCORE

RONCALLI

LOCAL

STATE

RONCALLI

LOCAL

STATE

RONCALLI

LOCAL

STATE

24

22

22.3

22.5

22.5

21.4

22

24

24

SAT STATISTICS FOR 2012Roncalli Local

PERCENTAGE OF GRADUATES TAKING SAT

SAT SCORES

84.3%Roncalli

61.3%Local

COMPOSITE SCORES

900

945

990

1035

1080

1125

WHI

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SOUT

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450 475 500 525 550

CRITICALREADING

MATH

WRITING 535

544

559

471

496

490

1103

1060

910

9871007

974

1016 1018

985

923

991

978

The ACT college readiness assessment is a standardized test used to evaluate high school achievement and for college admissions purposes in the United States. Most high schools in Indiana use this test to understand student achievement and to evaluate areas for growth in curriculum. As the chart shows, Roncalli students perform strongly on this assessment compared to their peers in other schools.

ACT Scores Composite % of Seniors English MathRoncalli* 24 90 24 24State* 22.3 NA 22.5 22.5Beech Grove* 21.0 20.7 20.0 21.0Center Grove* 24.0 51.5 24.0 24.0Decatur Central* 19.0 12.2 18.0 19.0Franklin Central* 22.0 47.3 21.0 22.0Franklin Community* 22.0 31.8 22.0 23.0Greenwood* 22.0 22.2 21.0 23.0Martinsville* 22.0 31.2 22.0 22.0New Palestine* 23.0 38.5 23.0 24.0Perry Meridian* 23.0 11.0 23.0 22.0Southport* 21.0 20.0 20.0 22.0Whiteland* 22.0 23.2 21.0 21.0Local Average* 22 28.1 21.4 22

*At the time of printing this data, the Indiana Department of Education had not published the 2013 results.


ACT STATISTICS FOR 2012

PERCENTAGE OF GRADUATES TAKING ACT

ACT SCORES

90.0%RONCALLI

29.1%LOCAL

Roncalli Local Indiana

21 22 23 24

MATHSCORE

ENGLISHSCORE

COMPOSITESCORE

RONCALLI

LOCAL

STATE

RONCALLI

LOCAL

STATE

RONCALLI

LOCAL

STATE

24

22

22.3

22.5

22.5

21.4

22

24

24

SAT STATISTICS FOR 2012Roncalli Local

PERCENTAGE OF GRADUATES TAKING SAT

SAT SCORES

84.3%Roncalli

61.3%Local

COMPOSITE SCORES

900

945

990

1035

1080

1125W

HITE

LAND

SOUT

HPOR

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ERID

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NEW

PAL

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GROV

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RONC

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450 475 500 525 550

CRITICALREADING

MATH

WRITING 535

544

559

471

496

490

1103

1060

910

9871007

974

1016 1018

985

923

991

978

The ACT college readiness assessment is a standardized test used to evaluate high school achievement and for college admissions purposes in the United States. Most high schools in Indiana use this test to understand student achievement and to evaluate areas for growth in curriculum. As the chart shows, Roncalli students perform strongly on this assessment compared to their peers in other schools.

SAT Scores Composite % of Seniors Critical Reading MathRoncalli 1103 84.3 544 559Beech Grove 978 60.0 486 492Center Grove 1060 73.6 529 532Decatur Central 910 51.7 450 460Franklin Central 987 63.5 496 491Franklin Community 1007 54.6 505 502Greenwood 974 67.9 476 499Martinsville 1016 55.0 502 513New Palestine 1018 86.2 503 514Perry Meridian 985 57.4 488 498Southport 923 55.4 459 464Whiteland 991 49.4 501 490Local Average* 986 61.3 490 496


1993 1998 2003 2003 2004 2012

Catholic Schools for Tomorrow Award

Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Award Recipient Set A Good Example Award

A TRADITION OF RECOGNIZED EXCELLENCEThe facts and stats celebrating 45 years of educational accomplishments

1993, 1998, 2003The only high school in Indiana

to win the Blue Ribbon School of

Excellence Award given by the

United States Department of

Education on three

separate occasions.

2003One of only 5 high

schools in the nation

honored for its

outstanding Service

Learning program by

the United States

Department of

Education.

2004Selected by the

Concerned

Businessmen’s

Association of

America as the top

school in the country

in its Set A Good

Example Award

program.

2012One of 12 Catholic schools

throughout the country to win the

Innovations in Education Award

presented by Today’s Catholic

Teacher at the Harvard Club in

Boston, Massachusetts.

ATHLETIC CHAMPIONSHIPS

INDIANA ACADEMIC ALL STARS

NATIONAL ARCHITECT CHAMPIONS

14

15

10

6

Football: ‘85, ’88, ‘93, ’94, ‘99, ’02, ‘03, ’04; Volleyball: ‘81, ‘98, ‘06; Softball: ’99, ‘01, ’11

INDIANA AWARD WINNING FACULTY

9

Roncalli’s drafting classes have produced 10 national architect champions.

Since 1987, The Indianapolis Star in concert with the Indiana Department of Education has worked to highlight students who have demonstrated academic excellence over the course of their high school career. Each year the top 40 graduates in the state are selected to receive the prestigious title of Indiana Academic All Star. Over the course of the program, 14 Roncalli graduates have now been recognized. Only four high schools in the state have had more All Stars. In March of 2015, senior Abby Whalen joined this long list of distinguished Roncalli scholars.

Roncalli has earned 6 major distinctions and awards at the national level for the success and achievements of our academic and service learning programs.

0

3

6

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7

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6

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Award-winning Roncalli faculty include the Indiana Association for Health, Physical Education, and Recreation Educator of the Year; World Languages Teacher of the Year; Prelude Award Fine Arts Teacher of the Year; Learning Disabilities Association of Indiana Teacher of the Year; Learning Disabilities Association of Indiana Administrator of the Year; Indiana English Teacher of Year; Indiana Social Studies Teacher of the Year; Indiana Non-Public Education Administrator of the Year; and the Archbishop O’Meara Pro-Life Award winner.


The Classrooms are coming! The Classrooms are coming! The plans have been on the drawing board for more than 10 years. We have been raising money since July 1, 2014. After much anticipation, the classroom construction began the week of March 9.

When the Roncalli Auditorium was being constructed (and then opened in August 2006), the area above the STARS and Guidance centers was built in such a way that we could eventually add six additional classrooms. That time has finally come! The construction area was staged on March 4 and the equipment and building materials began arriving on March 9. The roof began to ‘come off’ on March 11.

It is always exciting to be on campus when we have major construction projects in progress. Although we have lost some parking spaces temporarily, and it is a little noisy outside, the excitement continues to build for the opening of the classrooms on the first day of school on August 5. There is also much excitement around the Circle of Faith Fund which is raising money to finance the construction of the classrooms. We have met our goal of $650,000 and are working

toward the challenge goal of $925,000. If you would like to be a part of something historic, make a charitable contribution to the Circle of Faith Fund by contacting me at 317.787.8277 ext. 240 or at [email protected].

We want everyone to be able to experience the excitement of the construction and the expansion of our already world-class facilities. Follow us on Facebook at Roncalli High School or on Twitter at @roncallihigh for the latest pictures of the construction project. We also have a live camera feed going 24 hours a day. You can view the construction live at

http://postcards.roncalli.org/video/annual-fund/construction-cam.html. I hope that you take advantage of all of these opportunities to watch the construction in action as we progress over the next several months. Of course, we also welcome visitors to the school to see the action for yourself. Please join me in praying for a successful Circle of Faith Fund and the construction of these classrooms.

Many Blessings, Terese R. Carson Vice President for Institutional Advancement

Terese Carson, Vice President for Institutional Advancement

Classrooms Are Coming

Advancement Angle


TRADITION. EXCELLENCE. FAITH. LEGACY.All of the above words are consistently associated with Roncalli High School. Now, an opportunity is available for you to leave a legacy of your faith and commitment to the tradition and excellence found in abundance at Roncalli. As part of the Circle of Faith Annual Fund, funds are being raised for many school initiatives. The Jerusalem Cross has been constructed in the center of the Circle with personalized bricks. Please become a part of the tradition of the Roncalli Family by purchasing a brick or bricks to commemorate an alumnus, your family or the memory of a loved one.

What can I put on the brick? Your brick can display up to three lines of text, with 16 characters (including spaces and punctuation marks) per line.

How can I be sure the text on my brick will be correct? When you order your brick, you will receive an acknowledgment letter that includes a verification of the engraved text. If something is spelled or listed incorrectly, please contact the Advancement Office at 317-787-8277 ext. 238 and make corrections within two weeks of receipt.

How do I order a brick? Please download an order form from our website, www.roncalli.org/uploads/brick-campaign.pdf, or call the Advancement Office at 787-8277, ext 238.

BLAKE JONES R’79

THE SMITHS

TOM AND JANE


The week of January 26th-30th we celebrated Catholic Schools Week. Roncalli students were asked to reflect on what their Catholic education means to them. Below are excerpts from just a few of the essays we received.

WHAT CATHOLIC EDUCATION MEANS TO MEA Celebration of Our Faith

My Catholic education has given me a stronger sense of faith in everything that I do.

Spending time learning about faith has allowed me to place more trust in God. No matter what decision I make in my life, I know that God will always be with me. This trust gives me a sense of confidence that cannot come from anything else in the world. Going to Roncalli is not just another stage of my life, but it is a defining factor of who I am and what I will become later in my life.

Michael Otley Sophomore

The overwhelming feeling I hope each person will relate with my Catholic school is love. Not

only do the teachers, administrators, and staff love what they do, but also each and every one of them has a passion for children and for Catholic education. There is no doubt in my mind that each and every faculty member I come across each day strives to make Roncalli a better place. It is because of these people and the love they have for Catholic education that I love attending school in such a loving environment.

Annie Richardson Junior

Some may think by coming to a Catholic school that you just learn about God. Yes, we

do learn about God, but that is not all. We learn so much more: how to treat others, what is going on in our world today, how we can make a difference and how we can be witnesses to God’s word in our everyday lives. My Catholic education has prepared me to not fear whatever may come next because I know God will always be at my side.

Megan Choinacky Senior

To me, a Catholic education is a co-existence between religion and learning under the

same roof. Traditionally, the two have always been taught as two separate entities: church is for God, the classroom is for learning. Students are typically scolded for talking about God at school, but here at Roncalli, we are encouraged to. A Catholic school offers the unique opportunity to find God’s hand at work in the real world.

Matt Cunningham Senior


REBEL ATHLETICS

Winter Sports In ReviewGirls BasketballAgainst one of the toughest schedules in the state, the girls’ basketball team finished its season with an 18-7 record, extending the program’s streak of seasons with 16 wins or more to seven seasons. Only 10 girls’ basketball programs in Indiana have an active streak of at least six seasons of 16 wins or more. The team was ranked in the top 15 all season and finished the year ranked 13th in the statewide Sagarin computer poll (out of 410 programs). The six teams that defeated the Lady Rebels (they lost to Lawrence North twice), combined for 11 postseason trophies. Four teams were nationally ranked at the time they played Roncalli and Columbus North (Class 4A) and Heritage Christian (Class 2A) each won state titles. The Lady Rebels defeated three teams – Oregon-Davis, Center Grove and Bishop Chatard – that

won sectional titles. Oregon-Davis and Bishop Chatard each advanced to the semi-state round.

Junior Lindsey Corsaro was named the team’s MVP, averaging a team-best 22.4 points and 10.4 rebounds. On December 9 against Ben Davis, Corsaro scored her 1,000th career point, becoming the 10th player in program history to reach that milestone. Corsaro was named first team All-Marion County and led the team in 12 statistical categories. Senior Halle Harris earned the team’s Mental Attitude Award and concluded her career appearing in 90 varsity games. Sophomore Paige Saylor led the team in assists (3.8 per game), steals (3.0 per game) and 3-pointers made (25). She joined Corsaro on the All-Marion County first team. Senior Emma Lawrie was an Academic All-State selection by the Indiana Coaches of Girls

Sports Association (ICGSA). Halle Harris was an honorable mention Academic All-State selection.

Emma Lawrie fights for the ball as it starts to fall out of bounds during the first half in the 68-49 win for the host Rebels.

Senior Emma Lawrie puts down the clamps on Perry Meridian’s Brianna Adams in first quarter action.

Sophomore guard Paige Saylor dribbles past Brianna Adams before throwing the ball to an open teammate down court for a basket to record an assist on the play. The Rebels won their sixth straight game on senior night.

Photos by Bob Kelly R'79Stories by Rob Brown

Sophomore guard Paige Saylor is fouled but made the shot and hit the free throw to convert the three-point play.


REBEL ATHLETICS

Boys BasketballThe boys’ basketball team finished its season with a 15-7 record, extending the program’s streak of seasons with 10 wins or more to 13 seasons. Only 21 boys’ basketball programs in Indiana have an active streak of at least 13 seasons of 10 wins or more. In 46 seasons of basketball at Roncalli, this year’s team is only the seventh to win at least 15 games. From January 20 through February 6, the team won six straight games for the program’s longest winning streak since 2011-12. The seven road wins this season is the highest total since the 2011-12 season. This year’s team played eight games against teams ranked in the top 64 of the Sagarin computer state rankings, including a win over Scecina Memorial, one of the top teams in Class 2A. Four Roncalli opponents – Park Tudor, Lutheran, Lafayette Central Catholic and Franklin Central – won sectional titles and the Rebels beat all but Park Tudor.

Senior guard Jimmy King led the team in scoring and set 12 school records. Among them were single-game points (46), single-season scoring average (24.4), single-season points (536), single-season free throw percentage (.908) and career assists (280). In his final high school game, King became the third player in program history to score over 1,000 points, finishing his career with 1,012. Senior guard Max Clifford also averaged

in double figures (10.1 points per game). Senior forward Danny Annee led the team in rebounding with a 5.4 per game average. Senior guard Myles Sturdivant was one of three players – along with King and Annee – to start all 22 games. Senior forward Joe Swan and senior guard Tyler Schoettle combined to average over seven points and five rebounds per game while appearing in all 22 games.

Senior guard Tyler Schoettle puts a lay-up

off the glass for a basket during the Roncalli boys basketball team’s home

opener against Perry Meridian. The Rebels won

52-28.

Sophomore center Collin Sonderman (44) and senior center Danny Annee (32) battle for a rebound against Perry Meridian.

Senior guard Max Clifford goes up high to hit a three-point shot for the Rebels in first quarter action in the team’s season opener against Perry Meridian.


Record Setting Career

REBEL ATHLETICS

BOYS FRESHMEN BASKETBALL WINS COUNTY TITLE

The Roncalli boys freshmen basketball team captured the Marion County championship with a 45-31 home win over Pike. Nick Schnell led the Rebels with 15 points. Reese McGinsie scored nine points on 3-of-3 3-point shooting. Kellen Schreiber added eight points and Joe Kirkhoff filled the stat sheet with six points, five rebounds and five assists.

The title is the second freshmen county title for the Roncalli boys basketball program. The 2000-01 squad also won the county title. This season’s team, coached by Justin Wernke, finished with a 24-1 record.

With Roncalli's season coming to a close, here is the final school record tally for senior guard Jimmy King. He holds 12 records:

Single-game points: 46Single-game free throws made: 20Single-game free throws attempted: 21Most points in a postseason game: 34Single-season points: 536Single-season scoring average: 24.4 ppgSingle-season field goals made: 184Single-season free throw percentage: .908 (118-130)Career assists: 281Career free throw percentage: .865 (218-252)Most 30-point games in a season: 4Most 20-point games in a season: 15

He tied the records for:

Career 20-point games: 22Career 30-point games: 4

He also finished his career with 1,012 points and is one of three players (ranking third) in the 46-year history of the

program to score over 1,000 points.


REBEL ATHLETICS

WRESTLINGThe Rebel wrestling team finished with a 12-10 record, and additionally, won first place in the Class AA division of the Spartan (Connersville) Classic, posted a 5-0 record at the New Castle Super Duals and registered a fifth-place finish in the Marion County Championship. In the postseason, the Rebels finished fourth in the sectional and regional and eighth in the semi-state.

The Rebels racked up several individual accolades and honors. Senior Connor James and junior Nick Ellis each qualified for the state finals, with Ellis finishing

eighth at 132 pounds, despite finishing fourth in the regional and not anticipated to advance out of the semi-state. James captured county, sectional and regional titles at 182 pounds. He also won individual titles at the New Palestine Invite and the Spartan Classic. Ellis also was an individual winner at the New Palestine Invite and the Spartan Classic.

James was named Senior Academic All-State, as was Jake Mappes. Ellis and fellow juniors Michael Armbruster and Nate Eble were named Junior Academic All-State.

Jake Mappes, who finished second in his weight class, overpowers his opponent on the way to victory in the New Pal Invite.

Junior Tyler Smith attempts to put his left leg under his opponent from New Palestine as he tries to get the upper hand in his match during the second round at the New Pal Invite.

Roncalli’s Conner James makes a move on Perry Meridian’s Jaylin Marion. James overpowered his opponent and pinned him at the 1:21 mark to win the match.

Senior Conner James and junior Nick Ellis each wrestled their way to the IHSAA state finals. Ellis finished eighth in the 132 pound class, while James dropped his opening round match at state in the 182 pound class.

James finished his season with a 44-2 record and a host of accolades. He won the sectional and regional titles at 182 pounds, as well as the Marion County title. For his career, he won five postseason titles with three sectional crowns and two regional titles. Ellis completed his season with a 38-11 record and finished eighth in the state in his weight class, despite finishing fourth in the regional and facing a regional champion in the first round of the semi-state tournament.

Wrestling Sends Two To State

Photo (left to right): Senior Conner James and junior Nick Ellis


Congratulations to the Rebels 400 free relay team which earned a spot in the State Finals by virtue of having one of the fastest 32 times in the state. The relay team consists of (left-right) Eddie Huck, Andrew Shuck, Adam Pongracz and Nick Carpenter.

Relay Team Goes To State

REBEL ATHLETICS

BOYS SWIMMING AND DIVINGThe boys’ swimming and diving team finished the dual/tri meet season with an impressive 11-1 record and placed third in both the Marion County Championships and the sectional. The team’s sectional performance featured 19 lifetime bests and a spirited second-place finish by the 200 Medley Relay team. Junior Eddie Huck (200 IM and 100 Backstroke) and the 400 Relay team advanced to the state finals based on their sectional performance. As a result, coach Ed Merkling was named the Franklin Community Sectional Coach of the Year, as voted on by

the participating coaches, for the second consecutive year.

Huck established new school records for the 200 IM and the 100 Backstroke, as well as for average points scored per meet. Huck combined with seniors Andrew Shuck and Nolan Dalman, along with junior Adam Pongracz to break the school record in the 200 Medley Relay. Huck, Shuck, Pongracz and sophomore Nick Carpenter were the quartet that competed in the state finals as the 400 Relay team.

GIRLS SWIMMING AND DIVINGThe girls’ swimming and diving team finished their dual/tri meet season with an 8-5 record, highlighted by a double-win over Warren Central and Herron. Throughout the season, the team totaled a collective 121 lifetime best performances. The team finished ninth in the sectional.

Senior Hannah Gahimer was selected to the Academic All-State team by the Indiana Coaches of Girls Sports Association (ICGSA) and senior Emily Webb was named honorable mention Academic All-State.

Adam Pongracz makes his move while competing on Senior Night at the IUPUI Natatorium.

Carlie Brosseau swims towards the end of her heat for the backstroke on senior night for Roncalli at the IUPUI Natatorium.

Katelin Scott climbs out of the pool after competing in a heat against Danville High School.


REBEL ATHLETICS

GYMNASTICSThe gymnastics team posted its highest team score of the season, and surpassed its season goal, on senior night. The team set a goal of 101 points and totaled 102.575 in a win over Franklin Central, Beech Grove and Scecina Memorial. During the regular season, they posted wins over Martinsville, Noblesville, Shelbyville, New Castle and Franklin Central, among others. Roncalli competed in the Columbus East sectional alongside four of the top eight teams in the state with only the top three teams advancing to the regional. The team battled through injuries both before and during the meet to log superlative performances. All four gymnasts who competed in the bars received career-high scores, and then senior Lauren Lahey received the first 9.0 of her career on the beam. All four gymnasts earned career-high scores on the floor, capped by junior Anna Marie Lawrie receiving a career-best 9.3.

BOYS BOWLINGThe boys’ bowling team finished with a 6-4 record, lifted by the improvement of the underclassmen, combined with the play of the returning team members. The regular season included wins over Shelbyville, Perry Meridian, Franklin Central, Greenwood, Southport and Greenwood Christian. In the postseason, the team finished fifth in the sectional and missed advancing to regional by 45 pins. Senior Steven Ramsey advanced to the regional individually after a sixth-place finish in sectional.

Sophomore Lexy Conjelko gets ready to start her routine on the balance beam in a home meet against New Castle High School.

Junior Morgan Durbin puts out her arms to get steady as she prepares to make a move during her balance beam routine.

Junior Morgan Durbin concentrates on her next move while she performs her floor routine.

Senior Steven Ramsey taking a few practice bowls. Photo by Sam Dowell.

Pictured right is Catie Wallace. Photo by Sam Dowell.

GIRLS BOWLINGThe girls’ bowling team finished the season 5-5 despite the fact that seven of the nine team members were new to the sport. The team topped Perry Meridian, New Palestine, Franklin and Shelbyville (twice) before finishing sixth in the sectional.


REBEL ATHLETICS

ATHLETIC SIGNINGS

Megan Choinacky Ohio State University

Softball

Cat Yanis Aurora University

Softball

Maddie Mulinaro Marian University

Softball

Christian Beard Indiana University

Baseball

Connor Sabine University of Indianapolis

Lacrosse

Pauly Milto Indiana University

Baseball

Lizzie Britner Indiana University-Purdue University

Fort Wayne Volleyball

Michaela Strykowski Olney Central

College Softball

Caleb Matthews Kankakee

Community College Baseball

Bryce Bridgewater Wabash College

Baseball

Max Clifford Purdue University

Calumet Basketball

Samantha Fogg Indiana University

Volleyball

AJ Lux East Tennessee St.

University Volleyball

Bailey Schnell Western Michigan

University Volleyball

Olivia Gillum University of

Missouri-St. Louis Volleyball

Danny Annee Eastern Michigan

University Football

Joe Swan Marian Univeristy

Football


REBEL ATHLETICS

SENIORS VERSUS FACULTY BASKETBALL GAME SUPPORTS ST. ELIZABETH’S HOME

The annual Roncalli High School Seniors versus Faculty basketball game was played Friday, February 27. The faculty beat the seniors on a last second fade away shot by history teacher, Kevin Banich R'09. Admission to the game was $3.00 for all students, teachers and staff members and $3,200 was raised for the Roncalli Lenten Almsgiving Project, St. Elizabeth Coleman Home. St. Elizabeth’s is an agency of Catholic Charities that provides pregnancy and adoption services. To find out more about St. Elizabeth’s please go to www.givingbirthtohope.org.

WELCOME NEW HEAD COACHES

Boys Cross Country Coach

Roncalli High School announced that it has hired Jeff Buckley as its boys cross country coach.

"We are excited to have Jeff take over our boys cross country program," said Roncalli athletic director Dave Toner C'67. "His familiarity with our runners and their development will allow the program to continue its forward momentum.”

Buckley spent the last three seasons as the cross country program’s lead assistant, focusing on

developing the team’s flexibility and core strength as well as cultivating the younger runners. In addition to heading up the boys cross country program, Buckley will also work with distance runners during the upcoming track season.

The Roncalli boys cross country team opens its season in August. The program has advanced to the semi-state in 11 of the last 12 seasons.

Girls Tennis Coach

Roncalli High School announced that it has hired Thomas Wade as its girls tennis coach.

"We are thrilled to have Thomas take over our girls tennis program," said Roncalli athletic director Dave Toner C'67. "His coaching experience with our boys program, combined with teaching in the building, will be a good fit for our student-athletes."

Wade spent the last two seasons as an assistant coach with Roncalli’s boys tennis team, which won a sectional title in the fall of 2014. Wade, a graduate of Triton Central High School and Wabash College, teaches in Roncalli’s math department.

The Roncalli girls tennis team opens its season in March. The program has won nine sectional titles, including seven in the last eight years.

Senior Daniel McCauley is being closely guarded by staff members #28, John Hasty R'09 and Pat Kuntz R'05. Photo by Joe Schroeder R'17


RONCALLI SENIORS TAKE OVER IN ANNUAL SENIOR ASSIST DAYRoncalli High School seniors took over the school as they worked alongside a staff member on “Senior Assist Day.” The annual event was held Thursday, January 29 and had seniors teaching classes, working in the cafeteria and tackling the roles of administrators. The seniors acted the part as well as dressing it, wearing similar

clothing to that of the staff member they were assisting.

“It’s a lot of fun to see what it is like to run the school for a day,” said senior Bryce Bridgewater. “Mr. Weisenbach’s job as principal is a lot more fast paced than I thought. He’s so busy all the time.”

Photo (left to right): Senior Casey Gore and Mrs. Hibner

Photo (left to right): Principal, Chuck Weisenbach with senior Bryce Bridgewater

Photo (left to right): Mr. Stratton and senior Lee McAdams

Photo (left to right): Campus Minister, Scott Boyle and senior Sara Cannaday

Photo (left to right): Senior Morgan Sanders and Mrs. Schembra

STUDENTS HOST PROM FOR RESIDENTS OF ST. PAUL’S HERMITAGERoncalli High School Student Council held it’s first ever prom for the residents of St. Paul’s Hermitage on Saturday, February 28. Students volunteered their Saturday night, got dressed up, arrived early to set up and spent the evening reaching out to the residents, inviting them to dance, or play games, or share some cookies, punch and conversation. They even crowned a king and queen of the prom. To remember the evening, residents also posed for pictures.

The student volunteers included: Sam Dowell, Kristen Henke, Noah Scheer, Annie Schrader, Grace Murphy, Michael Otley, Kathleen Soller, Bridget Wade, Michaela Salazar, Megan Choinacky, Danielle Henke, Kate Morse, Katie Kolis, Sophie Scheer, Bryce Bridgewater, Jordan Jacob, Emily Eisenbarth and Parker Williams.


When I started working at Roncalli during the summer of 2007, I couldn’t wait for the beginning of the new school year. So much excitement follows the first day of school; seeing old friends, football Fridays and almost 1,200 students giving life to a building semi dormant over the summer months. Seeing the excitement on the students’ faces is also motivating and inspiring as we began a new school year in 2007. On my very first day of school a young man came running down the hallway, burst through the door of the Advancement Office, hurriedly crossed the room and entered my office. I looked up puzzled as I saw the enthusiastic smile drain from the student’s face as he looked at me and sadly asked, “Who are you… and where is Mr. Matis?” That was my introduction to Ned Halberstadt R’10 or just “Ned” as he was universally known around school. Ned was everyone’s friend while he was at Roncalli. He was involved in choir, theater, was often heard singing Beatles and Elvis songs in the hallways and was voted Prom King his junior year. This past January, no one was surprised to hear that a very talented Ned Halberstadt auditioned and earned a part in Carmel’s Roundabout Playback Troupe. Check out the class notes for Ned’s update.

The following is Roncalli’s Mission Statement, “As a Catholic high school, our pledge is to provide, in concert with parents, parish, and community, an educational opportunity which seeks to form Christian leaders in body, mind and spirit.

Guided by prayer and the Gospel values of faith, love, and justice, students are challenged to respond to the call of discipleship and to fulfill their potential as lifelong learners in service to others.

Our end is to make God’s love complete among us.”

Many of our graduates embody the mission statement of Roncalli each and every day but my guess is few do it better than Emma Laut R’11. The Marian University senior will receive the school’s first ever San Domiano Servant Leadership Award in May and deservedly so. She continues on

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