W INTE R 2014-2015
Dear SLCS Alum, Happy 2015! It has been an awesome year at St. Laurence and we have so much to be thankful for this year! First and foremost, we renovated the library and locker rooms and we added a TV Studio, and they are awesome! We would love for you to come by and check them out next time you are around our area. Please make sure you let me know you are in the building so I can say hello! Secondly and more newsworthy, SLCS was named a 2014 National Blue Ribbon School for High Performing Academic Excellence, and we couldn’t be prouder! It is quite the process to even qualify to apply, and the application process is extensive. Out of all of the schools in America, we were chosen as one of the top 50 private schools and are one of only 337 schools nationwide this year. Fr. Drew Wood and I were able to go to Washington, D.C. in November to receive this prestigious award from the U.S. Department of Education! It was such an honor to represent our school! Some of you may wonder what qualifies a school for this honor, and I am happy to tell you as you should be so proud to know that your grade school is doing well and is a national award winner! First, you must score at a certain percentage on a nationally normed standardized test. The level is determined by the U.S. Dept. of Education and basically puts SLCS in the top 10% of all schools for high performance on these tests. Next, a very detailed and thorough application is completed, and we share information about our school’s demographics and programs. They want to see that the school’s programs offer something unique and outstanding. We feel strongly that our school has a plethora of excellent opportunities for students, and we are confident that the areas of academic rigor, technology, and fine arts are meeting the needs of diverse learners are what made our school stand above the rest. Lastly, we submit a summary of our strengths and vision for the future. Once all of these are considered,
we receive notification of our award. On September 30 of 2014, we got that notice! We went straight to the” KSTL TV Studio”, right here on campus, to share the good news with our school community! Did you see it on Facebook? Click here tto link to the SLCS Facebook page and remember to “like” us! We want to extend our thanks to you for your role in setting the academic and educational standards that we continue to enjoy here at St. Laurence. I have heard through many sources that many of you are doing great things – graduating from college, getting masters degrees or doctorates, getting married, having babies, excelling in your careers, and sending your own kids to Catholic school….we want to hear about your successes and share in your joy. Please share the great things going on in your lives, and be sure to watch our Facebook page and look for emails coming from SLCS as we are trying to work on an alumni event in 2015 – we would be so happy to see you there! GO SAINTS…. once a SLCS saint, always a SLCS saint! May God continue to bless you all! In Him we trust,
Debra Haney, Principal
IN THIS ISSUE 2 Mission and Staff
News / Class 4 Reunion Updates
6 Alumni Updates
Annual Fund / 3 Save These Dates
News / Faculty & 5 Staff Spotlight
Alumni Updates / 7 Servicemen & Women
8 Alumni Update Form
ST. LAURENCE CATHOLIC SCHOOL
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W IN TE R 2014- 2015
A group of SLCS Class of 2014, currently Strake and St. Agnes students, came back to visit this past September
MISSION As a pastoral instrument of the Church, St. Laurence Catholic School sees as its mission the development of the whole Christian person. We will prepare our children to relate positively with the larger society by providing a program of Christian values, strong academics, social skills, and community service. Just as the Holy Trinity permeates the life of the Church, the
STAFF Editor: Ginger Przybyla, Development Coordinator Contributors: Suzanne Byrne, Development Assistant Marie Brown Beth Dodson Terry Boyer Sarah Glaser Germaine Guedry Debra Haney Kristin Holy ShaLa Kiolbassa Anne Lootens Linda Schurman Lindsey Vainstein
The Saints’ Scoop is a publication of the Office of Development at St. Laurence Catholic School. St. Laurence Catholic School’s The Saints’ Scoop is published twice a year in the fall/winter and spring/summer. St. Laurence Catholic School 2630 Austin Parkway Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-980-0500
www.stlaurencecs.org
Photographers: Parents, faculty, staff and friends of SLCS
personal relationship of parent, child, and educator gives life to our school.
Find us on Facebook and “Like” our school page www.facebook.com/pages/St-Laurence-CatholicSchool/105517722831132 or follow us on Twitter @StLaurence_1992
Contents of The Saints’ Scoop may not be reprinted without permission from St. Laurence Catholic School.
EVER THOUGHT OF GIVING BACK?
Faith, Learning & Leadership ANNUAL FUND
We would like to thank you as alumni of St. Laurence Catholic School for your involvement regarding the Faith, Learning & Leadership Annual Fund. We received many gifts of your time, talent, and/or treasures and would like to extend a “Thank You” to those who have begun a legacy of financially supporting our beautiful school through the Faith, Learning & Leadership Annual Fund. The opportunities to assist our school vary, but by supporting the Faith, Learning & Leadership Annual Fund, you in turn support the many wonderful programs that have become traditions at St. Laurence Catholic School. All donations are 100% tax deductible and will benefit many young children as they journey through our hallways, just as you did many years ago. SLCS would like to graciously think Bradley Burgess for his leadership as the 2014-2015 Faith, Learning & Leadership Annual Fund Alumni Chair. Remember, when you are in town visiting with SLCS alumni, family and friends, please send us pictures and updates as we love to keep up with the SLCS alumni.
S AV E T H E S E D AT E S JAN.
2015 CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK
FEB.
S.P.I.C.E. LUNCHEON
25 27 NOV.
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Plan to join SLCS and the students for this national, week-long celebration of Catholic education. Catholic Schools Week begins Sunday, Jan. 25th and ends Saturday, Jan. 31, 2015.
The annual S.P.I.C.E. luncheon will be held on Friday, February 27, 2015, in the SLCC Parish Hall. You will not want to miss this annual luncheon.
FEB.
STEPS FOR STUDENTS 5K RUN/WALK
APR.
ANNUAL AUCTION AND GALA
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Steps For Students is the Archdiocesan annual 5K event and will be held on February 21, 2015. The Archdiocese asks all Catholic schools and their families to participate. The event will be at the Co-Cathedral.
SLCS’s annual auction and dinner will be held at the Marriott Town Center in Sugar Land. It is guaranteed to be a night to remember! Please mark your calendar.
SLCS TUITION ASSISTANCE GOLF TOURNAMENT The Annual St. Laurence Catholic School Tuition Assistance Golf Tournament will be held at Sweetwater Country Club on Monday, November 16, 2015.
ST. LAURENCE CATHOLIC SCHOOL
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GREAT CONNECTIONS!!!! GERMAINE GUEDRY
Recently I was having car problems and didn’t like the news the dealership’s service manager had to share so I turned to that trusted technology support ..…”GOOGLE”. I was so fortunate to find a listing and outstanding reviews for Professional Auto Care which is owned and operated by the Serratos family of Sugar Land. Karolena and Kimberly Serratos are St. Laurence Catholic School alumni. Karolena graduated from SLCS in May, 2003 and Kimberly graduated in May, 2009. They both went on to St. Agnes Academy then began university studies. Karolena graduated from the University of Houston, Bauer College of Business with double majors in Entrepreneurship and Supply Chain Management. She holds several licenses and memberships even serving on the City of Sugar Land’s Multi-Cultural Advisory Team and the Land Use Advisory Committee. Kimberly was able to leave St. Agnes Academy at the end of her junior year (May 2012) as she was accepted into St. John’s College in Santa Fe, New Mexico where she is presently completing her junior year. Thanks to Karolena’s knowledge, trustworthiness and professional advice, I was able to make an informed decision about my needed car repair!!! I love when “the kids” are now giving their old Middle School AP advice!
ion Updates: un Re s as Cl s! te ua ad gr CS SL n Attentio
Classes 1997, 1998 & 1999
putt ing together a reunion! (the first three graduating classes) are 1999 and , 1998 , 1997 from s mate A group of your class nize the event. Please contact him group of volunteers who will help orga and ittee comm a form to ing work is Jeff Gilbert rt.jeffrey1984@gmail.com at: 832.744.0526, 281.979.3901 or gilbe
Class 2013
say Kristin Holy) is reunion! Brandon Holy (or should we S SLC first their ther toge put to The Class of 2013 would like at: ckholy@windstream.net t. Please contact Brandon or Kristin even the plan help will who ittee working to form a comm
Class 2014
If you are interested in their first reunion this summer or fall. host to like ld wou ni alum est new S’s SLC heta at jasonancheta1@comcast.net volunteering, please contact Jason Anc
If you are interested in coordinating or hosting a class reunion and would like to share the word, please email the details and contact person to Ginger Przybyla at gprzybyla@stlaurence.org
JESUIT STUDENTS HONORED BY MEALS ON WHEELS A group of Strake Jesuit freshmen have been chosen by Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels as its Student Volunteer Group of the Year. The freshmen volunteered at the senior center over the summer, handling duties such as meal packing and organization, bingo calling, hurricane preparation meals, and clean up. In appreciation for their efforts, Jesuit was presented with the award last Saturday night at a gala celebrating the organization’s 40 year anniversary. The plaque commemorating the award reads as follows: “In gratitude for outstanding individual contributions and selfless support of Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels and for your commitment to help seniors remain independent by enhancing their quality of life through services and resources.” ***Article was originally posted on the Strake Jesuit website on Monday, September 15, 2014. ***
On hand to receive the award were Jesuit freshmen (left to right) Back row - Jacob Coppedge, Charlie Geyer, and Lex Perrier. Front row Jake Arrell, Colton Marks, and Henry Dans
FACULTY AND STAFF SPOTLIGHT
JULIE CHOVANETZ How long have you been at SLCS? 18 wonderful years. What is your favorite color? Purple and Dallas Cowboy’s blue!! Do you have a favorite Scripture? Above all else, put on love, which binds the rest together and makes them perfect. Let Christ’s peace reign in your hearts since, as members of the one body, you have been called to that peace Col: 14 & 15. What is your favorite memory of SLCS or of an event at SLCS? Every kindergarten celebration and 8th grade graduation. It is just amazing to watch the children grow in their faith as they continue their educational journey through these years.
What is your favorite part about your job? Having the opportunity to be surrounded by staff, children and parent community who truly believe and practice the Catholic faith daily. What would you be doing if you were not on staff at SLCS? What is your dream job? ICU Pediatric Nurse What kind of music do you listen to? A-Z---I love all kinds of music.
What is your favorite book? Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo. “A beautifully written glimpse into heaven that will encourage those who doubt and thrill those who believe.”
What is your favorite quote and why? “In the end dear friend, it is always between us and God, not between us and them” Mother Teresa says it best. This quote sums up how we should live our lives here on earth.
Name one thing that we wouldn’t know about you. Terrified to fly. (Figured I can’t say I am a Ghost Hunter!)
Where is your favorite vacation spot and with who? National Parks, mountains, rivers, lakes and beaches with family and friends of course!
Do you have any special talents? Photography Do you have any pets? A dog and a cat Where did you attend college? Austin Community College in Austin, Texas.
What was the first concert you attended? Donny and Marie Osmond!!! What do you do you in your free time? Scrapbook, Scrapbook, Scrapbook!
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ALUMNI CLASS OF 1997
complete her student teaching in the spring of 2015 and graduate with honors.
Lori McMenemy is marrying Michael Newell on May 16, 2015 at St. Martin de Porres in Dripping Springs, Texas. Congratulations!
William Perreau is currently studying Petroleum Engineering at Texas Tech University and is scheduled to graduate in 2016.
CLASS OF 1995 Amanda Herrington graduated with her Masters in OT from Texas Women’s University.
CLASS OF 2000 Cari McMenemy is marrying Michael Caddick on July 2, 2015 at St. Laurence in Sugar Land, Texas. Congratulations! Allie Albrecht Cassidy had a baby girl, Clare Cassidy, September 18, 2014. Her mom, Nancy Albrecht was the school nurse for many years!
Class of 2001 Sarah Glaser is marrying Julian Alexander (yes, one of the SLCS football coaches) on May 23, 2015 at St. Laurence Catholic Church in Sugar Land, Texas. Congratulations!
Class of 2004 Jessica Perreau is a RN/BSN at MD Anderson Hospital and is working on completing her MSc part time from Texas Women’s University, in the Nurse Practitioner field. Lauren Bulter is marrying Tom Schmidt on January 31, 2015 at St. Laurence Catholic Church in Sugar Land, Texas. Congratulations!
Class of 2007 Caroline Allee is a senior at Texas Christian University. She earned the Purple Heart Award and All-Mountain West Athletic Award as a player for the TCU Women’s Soccer Team. She is a member of the Rho Epsilon Chapter of Chi Omega. She is majoring in education and has been on the Dean’s Honor List all four years. She is a member of the Golden Key International Honor Society and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. She has been awarded the American Association of College for Teacher Education and the Southern Poverty Law Center Award. She works with the Catholic Charities Refugee Program, Make A Wish Foundation and TCU’s children’s programs. She will
Class of 2010 Brian Buckle is currently a freshman Engineering Major at Texas A&M. WHOOP!
Class of 2011 Robby Allee is a senior at Strake Jesuit College Preparatory. He played football for two years and has held the position of Varsity Football Manager these past two years. He earned the Jesuit Computer Science Art and Animation Award, is a member of the National Honor Society of High School Scholars and is on the Jesuit Honor Roll. He has been a Crusader Crew Leader for the past two years. He is member of the Soldiers, Airmen, Marines and Sailors Club. He volunteers with Camp Blessing and the senior citizens of Sugar Land. He has been awarded scholarships to Regis University in Colorado, Louisiana State University and Texas A&M Galveston. He has been awarded scholarship and entrance into the Honors College at UTSA. He will graduate spring of 2015. Elizabeth Pope will graduate from St. Agnes Academy in May 2015 and will attend Mays Business School at Texas A&M University in the Fall of 2015. She is co-founder and co-president of the Lunches of Love Club at SAA and is also on the Board of the Social Concerns Ministry at St. Laurence Catholic Church. She plays golf at SAA and Eclipse Club soccer. Daniel Rutledge was accepted to the Engineering School at Texas A&M. He also just received a scholarship to Texas A&M from the “College Board Recognition Award”; made the Principal’s Honor Roll for the first quarter at Strake this year. Daniel just finished his last season playing football and is gearing up for baseball. Mercedes McKay was voted Homecoming Queen for Austin High School and was accepted to MIZZOU where she plans to attend to pursue Sports Broadcasting. She is also Co-Colonel of the Angels Dance Team. Check out the article in the Houston Chronicle regarding Tucker Kisel making his move in football from the center position to the right tackle position this year at Austin High School. Tucker also received all district honors for District 23-6A football. Click here to read the article! Chelsea Perreau attends the Sugar Land Harmony School of Science and she is loving it! Brandon Porth graduates from Strake Jesuit in May 2015 and is planning on attending Loyola University in New Orleans, Louisiana and majoring in Petroleum Engineer.
Class of 2012 Ugo Amadi a Junior at Clements High School received all district honors for District 23-6A football. Click here to read the article! Brandon Bain is currently attending Strake Jesuit and is part of a group of young men currently discerning for religious life. He is planning a pilgrimage to Rome for ten days in the spring, as a part of their discernment.
Class of 2013 Bradley Burgess made the principal’s honor roll for the 1st quarter at Strake Jesuit. He also made the Strake Jesuit Golf team this year. He continues his flight instruction at Anson Air in Sugar Land to get his private pilot’s license. And speaking of license - Bradley now has his driver’s license.
and Water Polo teams. He is a member of the Spirit Club and plays Ultimate Frisbee. He is on the Jesuit Honor Roll and has been nominated by his teachers for the Leadership Council at Jesuit. He volunteers with Mamie George Senior Citizen Center and with Special Olympics as a mentor to youth for their sports competitions. Chris Yeager is a swimmer and had the opportunity to represent the U.S. in Hawaii this past August at the Junior Pan Pac meet. Michelle Collins is doing fantastic and as busy as ever! She took a trip to Orlando with the Sunshine Kids in October, 2014. She also attended a confirmation overnight retreat in November. She is planning on attending St. Agnes on a full time basis in January, 2015!!! She continues to have chemo and is gaining strength every day!
Class of 2014 Patrick Rutledge has completed his first season with the Strake Jesuit football team. He also made the 2nd highest honors and honor roll for the first quarter at Strake.
A group of SLCS class of 2013 spending the weekend together at Steubenville south in Alexandria, LA Joseph Allee is a sophomore at Strake Jesuit College Preparatory. He was recognized as a freshman on the Junior Varsity Swim and Water Polo teams for outstanding performance. His water polo team qualified to compete in Junior Olympics this past summer in California. This year, he is a member of the Varsity Swim
A group of SLCS Class of 2014, currently Strake and St. Agnes students, came back to visit this past September
PRAY FOR OUR SERVICEMEN AND WOMEN: PFC Trevor Bello, USMC Capt. Christopher Coffman, US Air Force Capt. Patrick Coffman, USMC 1st Lt Scott Coffman, USMC LC pl Sean D’Oliver, USMC Capt. Brandon Driscoll, USMC 1st Lt Matthew Fenelon, USMC LC pl Kevin McGinnis, USMC 2nd Lt Brendan McPartland, USMC LC pl Daniel Thesing, USMC Capt. Michael Thesing, USMC ST. LAURENCE CATHOLIC SCHOOL
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aire te Questionn a d p U i n m lu A
s u p e Ke in the loop!
ou t and Please print d form to: te le p m o c n retur lic School o th a C e c n e St. Laur nt f Developme o e c fi f O : n Att Parkway 2630 Austin 9 , T X 7747 Sugar Land tlaurence.org s @ s w e in n alum or email to
First Name______________________ Last Name_____________________ Maiden Name ____________________ Spouse’s Name___________________ Parents Names _______________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________ City___________________________ State__________ Zip_____________ Phone_________________________ Email_________________________ High School______________________ City__________ Year Graduated_______ College_________________________ City__________ Year Graduated_______ Degree Received_______________________________________________ Occupation_______________________ Employer_______________________ Children’s Name(s)__________________ and Birthdate(s)___________________ News to Share with SLCS_________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________