Dear Xavier Families,
This week has been a trying one for all of us. As a community, we have faced the heartbreaking loss of two beloved members. In times like these, we lean on one another, drawing strength from the deep bonds that make Xavier more than just a school.
We are mourning the passing of Brother Thomas Ryan, C.F.X., a man whose legacy has touched generations. His presence in the halls of Xavier was more than just his role as a teacher - it was a living testament to the values we hold dear. In the wake of his passing, I have witnessed something truly remarkable. Our students, faculty, staff, and alumni have come together, offering support and comfort to one another, creating a powerful reminder of what it means to belong to this community.
Sadly, Brother Ryan's death was not the only loss we have endured. We ask that you join us in prayer for the Manning family. Justin Manning, the father of junior Patrick Manning, passed away unexpectedly last week. Earlier today, members of the Xavier community gathered to honor Justin's memory at his funeral. In moments like this, it is difficult to find the right words, but I have seen how, together, we make the unbearable weight of this sorrow a little bit easier to carry.
Loss has a way of reminding us of the importance of those around us. It reveals the depth of our connections, and in these moments, our Xavier family becomes stronger. We are united not just by the uniform or the classrooms we share, but by the kindness we show one another in times of need. This week, I have been reminded once again that Xavier is not just a place - it is a family.
Thank you for your continued prayers, support, and presence during this difficult time. Together, we will heal, and together, we will honor the memories of those we have lost.
I wanted to share this passage from our XBSS Partners in Mission document:
"As partners in mission who are heirs to the legacy of Xaverian education, we are committed to the brothers' tradition of fostering excellence. As individuals and communities, we seek to empower students to achieve beyond their expectations and 'give the gift they have received as a gift' to a world in need."
Here are this week's updates and announcements...
Important Upcoming Dates
- Saturday, Sept. 21: Freshmen / Sophomore Country Fair Mixer with Mercy (7:00 pm - 10:00 pm)
- Sunday, Sept. 22: Wake for Brother Thomas Ryan, C.F.X. (4:00 pm - 8:00 pm)
- Monday, Sept. 23: No Classes
- Monday, Sept. 23: Brother Thomas Ryan's Funeral (10:00 am)
- Tuesday, Sept.24: Parent Mini Schedule Night (6:30 pm)
- Wednesday, Sept. 25: Fall Freshman Leadership Day (11:15 am - 2:30 pm)
- Monday, Sept. 30: Standard Dress Code Begins
- To allow everyone to participate in this celebration of Brother Ryan's life, there will be no classes on Monday, September 23. This is a moment for us all to reflect, to mourn, and to remember the impact of a life well-lived. We hope to see you there as we say goodbye to a man who gave so much to Xavier.
- For all those unable to attend the funeral service for Brother Ryan on Monday, you can join us virtually at this link.
- Parents of fall athletes: This is a reminder to parents that Student-Athletes must be in school for the day in order to participate in their practices or contests. If your son is absent from school, they are not allowed to attend practice or games unless they receive permission from Mr. Cerreta. Any athlete who is found in violation of this policy will be immediately sent home from their event and face additional school consequences. Additionally, athletes who arrive late or leave early, must be present for 5 full class periods in order to be eligible for athletics.
- Parents of Fall Athletes: Reminder that parent pick up after practices/games should be in the back of the school and not along the side of the building. Parents must stay out of the bus pick up/drop off lane.
- All home Xavier athletic events, taking place in the gymnasium or outside on the turf field are being livestreamed through our provider HUDL. We are no longer using NFHS. The link for streaming can be found on the Xavier Athletics Website under the tab "Inside Athletics". Please reach out to the school's Athletic Director Dan DeConti '01 with any questions.
- Senior and Junior Parents Note! In the coming weeks, Xavier will host admission representatives from colleges across the United States. Please encourage your son to check Naviance to sign up for these visits.
- Here is the list of schools that will be attending the week of September 23rd: Binghamton University, Southern Connecticut State University, Wentworth Institute of Technology, Merrimack College, Fairfield University, High Point University, and Hofstra University.
- Senior Parents: School counselors will be going into classrooms to work on the Common App in September. Please check in with your son's to see how they are progressing on the Common App. Encourage them to schedule a meeting with their school counselor.
- On Tuesday, September 24, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., Xavier will be hosting its Parent Mini-Schedule Night! The purpose of this event is to provide parents with an opportunity to meet their son's teachers and to familiarize themselves with their son's schedule. Parents are asked not to enter the building before 6:15 p.m. The night will begin with a short meeting/presentation in Kohs Gymnasium. Room assignments will be posted throughout the building to aid parents in finding their sons' homerooms. The official mini-schedule will commence at 7 p.m. Parents will spend approximately ten minutes in each of their son's classes. The evening will conclude with a general announcement.
- Parents of Juniors and Seniors! The ECE registration process will take place Friday, September 27 in school
- We're excited to share with you our newest ad promoting all that makes Xavier special. It's already making waves on our social media channels, and we couldn't be prouder. Studies show that the number one reason families consider sending their sons to Catholic school isn't an ad, a brochure, or a billboard. It's you! It's the conversations you have with friends and neighbors. It's the stories you tell about what Xavier has meant for your son. We'd love for you to share this link with those in your circles. Spread the word, far and wide. Together, we keep building this community, one relationship at a time.
- Attention parents! We need your help with blanketing our state with our Open House Lawn Signs. If you can assist by placing a lawn sign in your yard, at your local church, or any other strategic location in your town, please send your son to Mr. Sansone's office to pick one (or more!) up. We will have signs available at the September 24 Parent Mini-Schedule Night as well.
- Registration for our annual Fall Open House on Sunday Oct. 20 is open! This is one of the biggest days of the year for Xavier. Please share this link with any families or friends that may be interested in attending Xavier. We greatly appreciate your help! If you have any questions, please email Director of Enrollment, Mr. Chris Sansone '06 ([email protected]).
- ASSE International is partnering with Xavier High School to welcome international high school exchange students, ages 15-18, into your family and create bonds that will last a lifetime. Hosting an international student offers a unique cultural exchange experience for both the student and your family. To learn more about hosting an international exchange student click here or contact Chris Sansone, Director of Enrollment.
Please find next week’s lunch menu below:
Monday
No classes
Tuesday
Chicken Rice Bowl Chipotle style
Wednesday
Grilled Cajun Cajun Chicken Breast Sandwich Topped with Pepper Jack Cheese
Fried Banana Peppers and Chipotle Ranch
Thursday
Toasted Lino’s Famous Italian Combo Sub
Friday
Pulled Pork Sandwich on a Brioche Bun optional topped with mac and cheese
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Have a great long weekend.
God Bless.
Nick Cerreta '01
Interim Head of School
Xavier High School
