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Monthly Parent Newsletter Issue 107 April 2021
Introducing the Bosco Tech Future Graduating Class of 2025
Message from the Principal Dear Bosco Tech Families, As you are aware, schools across Southern California have started the process of reopening their classrooms to in-person instruction. Bosco Tech has been considering this option for some time, weighing multiple factors and possible scenarios. The safety of our students, faculty and staff remains our first priority, and all of our decision making reflects that concern. After careful deliberation, and in accordance with guidelines from the LA Archdiocese and the LA County Office of Public Health, Bosco Tech has made the decision to begin hybrid instruction the week of April 19-23. We will be offering students the option to return to the classroom in a hybrid format or to remain in virtual distance learning. This date was selected for several reasons. First, we want to give our instructors, most of whom have been teaching from their homes, time to effectively set up their classrooms to accommodate the unique instructional format of teaching to an in-person and virtual audience simultaneously. Additionally, we can use this time to finish implementing the many safety precautions we have been adding across the campus. Finally, we recognize the added risk of viral spread when families may come together for the Easter holiday, as was witnessed shortly after Christmas. The reopening week provides a necessary time buffer before students return to the campus. Each week will provide students the opportunity for two in-person, on-campus instructional days and three days of distance learning from home. Our instructors are adapting their lesson plans to accommodate both in-person and virtual students. This format accommodates those families who may not feel comfortable having their sons return to the classroom at this time by providing an option to participate in all lessons from home, as they are now doing. After parents indicate their choice between in-person or at-home instruction, students will be assigned to one of two on-campus or one fully virtual cohort: Black Cohort – on campus on Tuesdays and Wednesdays Gold Cohort – on campus on Thursdays and Fridays Tiger Cohort – at-home instruction (based upon parent/guardian’s choice) We are sorry; parents may not specify their preference for an on-campus cohort. Once the hybrid model begins, students may change from in-person to virtual or virtual to in-person instruction, but this request must be made by the parent with 48 hours notice. This necessary time is used to recreate rosters for the teachers and to balance class sizes across the student’s schedule. Students may not arbitrarily switch a day from on -campus to virtual or vice versa. This will be treated as an unexcused absence and a teacher may choose to not accept any assignments or tests due that day. We will continue to follow the same class schedule that we’re currently using, except that period 4 will begin directly after period 3, eliminating a lunch period and creating a 12:45 p.m. dismissal time each day. At this time, we would prefer that students do not consume their lunch on the campus, because this will place them too close together without masks. Beginning April 20, the revised schedule will be: Period 1: 8:00-9:00 a.m. Period 2: 9:15-10:15 a.m. Period 3: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Period 4: 11:45-12:45 a.m. Help sessions: virtual after 2:00 p.m. Students should be picked up promptly after school and cannot remain on the campus, unless they are part of a sanctioned after school activity. You recently completed a survey to help make the selection between on-campus hybrid or at-home virtual instruction. The Google form also asked if your son will be part of a carpool and with whom (siblings, (continued)
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Principal’s Message (continued) classmates, etc.). Cohort groups are being assigned from this information. Balancing class sizes and minimizing the number of students in a classroom is the first priority when it comes to assigning these groups; that is why we cannot accommodate specific requests for a particular on-campus cohort. For those students who will join us on campus, stringent safety measures will be practiced, including daily online health screenings prior to arrival on campus, temperature checks at all entrances, mandatory mask wearing at all times while on campus, and desk and workstation sanitizing after each class period. More information on these processes will follow. We ask that you discuss the importance of these measures with your son so we’re all working from the same page, and so students understand the need for vigilance, both for his safety, but also in consideration of those around us. We feel confident that, working together, we can successfully begin the hybrid model and return our young men to their campus home. We will keep you closely informed and share more information as the reopening day approaches. Thank you for your on-going support and prayers, Jeff Krynen (BT ‘81) Principal
Introducing BoscoTechAlumni.com— Connect, Give Back & Network with Your Tech Brothers We are so excited to launch BoscoTechAlumni.com, Bosco Tech's brand new alumni networking platform. It’s free and easy to use; just securely log in with your LinkedIn account, Google account, or create a new account directly. Click the link to get started. This is your opportunity to: · Connect: See what your friends have been up to since graduation and easily stay in touch. · Expand your professional network: Discover Bosco Tech connections in your field; advance your career with virtual networking opportunities. · Give Back: Share advice and expertise with other Bosco Tech graduates and act as a mentor to our graduating seniors. No matter where you are—in the country, in your career, or in your field—this digital network allows you to connect with Tech graduates and take advantage of an alumni body that is over 9,000 strong. In the coming weeks, we will be communicating further regarding new programming for our alumni community, including a reunion weekend, opportunities to visit the campus, various events in both the LA area and around the country, and networking with those in your career field. As we work toward a full open in the 2021-2022 school year, alumni activities are top of mind in order to build the sense of community we deserve. For more on BoscoTechAlumni.com, we invite you to read this letter from Memo Gutierrez (AU '83), Bosco Tech President, and Steven Hernandez (GC '88), President of the Bosco Tech Alumni Association. Questions? Please contact Phil Consuegra at pconsuegra@boscotech.edu.
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Alumnus Profile— Anthony Rodriguez (DE ‘99)
Commercial Real Estate Consultant, Public Speaker & Investor An investment associate with Marcus & Millichap, Tech alumnus Anthony Rodriguez (DE ’99) enjoys helping individuals and investment companies maximize their financial potential. That desire to guide has led him to recently create an educational YouTube.com channel. “Investing in the Real World,” highlighting actual deal stories, is suitable for novices and seasoned investors and Anthony hopes it will inspire others. He joined the military upon graduation from the Tech in 1999. As a member of the Air National Guard stationed at March Air Force Base, Anthony earned a bachelor’s degree in Finance at San Diego State University and an MBA in Finance and Real Estate at UC Irvine, where he is a frequent guest lecturer. Of his 17 years in the military, where he reached the rank of Master Sergeant, he said, “The time flew, but I've taken with me some of the servant leadership mentality and will forever follow the Air Force core of values: integrity, service before self, and excellence in all I do,” Anthony said. “Most of all, I believe that in the Air Force, I learned to lead.” First introduced to real estate by fellow Tech alumnus Kris German (PT ’98), the Design graduate enjoyed the architecture it involved. Kris, himself, was originally guided in the field by Tech classmate Enrique Viramontes Jr. (MS ‘99). “I have a better appreciation for real estate and construction because of my design background,” Anthony explained. “I'm able to read floor plans and draw them up if I absolutely needed to (although it's been a while!) Design also taught about practical placement and taught me to visually picture items and buildings from different perspectives to get the correct angles and views, which I use today.” “Overall, my Bosco Tech experience helped form me into a well-rounded young man,” said Anthony (DE ’99). “I had not only the education, but built up the confidence and ability to succeed in college. It also gave me the skills that I could apply immediately for employment and helped me get my first internship.” Anthony still places a priority on giving back, something reinforced during his years on campus. He founded Thanksgiving Goodness ten years ago, rounding up friends and family to give back. To date, the committed volunteers annually have gathered on the Tech campus to assemble and then personally deliver more than 20,000 meals and care packages to Downtown L.A.’s homeless. “Philanthropy is important to me because I believe we all have talents, ability and resources that can benefit humanity in some way,” Anthony explained. “I believe it's not only the right thing to do, but our individual callings to use our blessings or ability to serve those most in need.” “The philosophy of Saint John Bosco and how he helped the boys with education, practical skills and bringing them to Christ has always stayed with me,” he continued. “Sometimes, kids need extra love and support because of whatever they've been through, without judgment. The open arms and loving support were woven throughout my Bosco experience, from the Big Brother program, to the retreats, to the teachers, the coaches, and campus ministry. I learned to care and serve while a student at Bosco Tech.” Asked what lesson he would share with today’s students, Anthony answered without hesitation, “High school will go fast, college will go faster. Enjoy your time at both and see what you're made of. If you want to try out for something, or excel at something, don't be afraid to work hard and go after it. Failing only happens when you give up, so pick yourself up, learn from the challenge, and keep going!”
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March Madness Father-Son Event What an incredible morning! Bosco Tech's March Madness Father Son Virtual Event, for students and their fathers and the father figures in their lives, was full of inspiration and motivation, thanks to our amazing guest speakers! Addressing the large virtual group were L.A. County Fire Dept. Battalion Chief Gerald Gonzales, State Senator Bob Archuleta, and Parent Council member Will Watts, Tech dad (son Joshua Watts is an MAT sophomore) and partner at the law firm DLA Piper and clinical professor at UCLA School of Law. Their profound words of encouragement and wisdom for both fathers and sons were very appreciated!
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Bosco Tech’s Archdiocese Christian Service Awardee Congratulations to Tech senior Antonio Robles (IDEA), the recipient of this year’s Archdiocese Christian Service award. The award is presented annually to students from local Catholic high schools for significant contributions in the area of Christian service. In addition to serving on the Tech’s Youth Ministry Core Team, the Liturgy and Worship Committee and Character Assembly Sound Crew, Antonio is active in his home parish San Gabriel Mission. He works with the Youth Ministry, Confirmation and Catechism programs, and with Gabe's Place Camp, a joint summer school and day camp based at the Mission. He also is a member of the Mission’s Marimba Choir. “For years, Antonio has volunteered his time and energy for others,” said Mr. Rudy Herrera, Coordinator of Youth Ministry and instructor. “The tremendous hours of service he has given have not only made a difference at Bosco Tech, but he’s also made that same kind of difference at his parish. In fact, Antonio makes a positive difference everywhere he goes and whatever projects he involves himself in. The hours he’s volunteered working in ministry, through his work with confirmation programs, youth groups and our own ministry program have undoubtedly inspired others. We pray for, and can only imagine how much of a difference he will make during his college years and beyond!”
March Madness Father-Son Event (continued)
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Unity Mass & Ring Ceremony Celebrates Class of ‘22 Bosco Tech’s Junior Unity Mass and Ring Ceremony, on March 29, celebrated the Class of 2022 and their unique contribution to the Tech family. During the virtual event, families prayed over and presented the rings to class members. Special thanks to the Youth Ministry Core Team and Mr. Herrera, and special guests Mr. Ivan Limeta (ACE '13) and Mr. Erick Williams. We're so proud of our juniors and pray God's blessing on these fine young men!
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Tech Alum Creates Most Famous Parachute in the Solar System Did you see it? When the Perseverance Rover recently landed on Mars, its parachute deployment was vital to the expedition. Tech alumnus Paul J. Ramirez (Materials Science '01), who skillfully created and packed the chute for NASA, is quoted about the work, and the secret messages within the parachute, in a recent CNET story. Short for “Computer Network,” CNET is a media website that publishes reviews, news, blogs, podcasts, and videos on technology and consumer electronics globally. Click on the story or image to go straight to the CNET article!
Internship Candidates Complete Mock Interviews Juniors completing the Tech’s Summer Internship training program recently participated in mock job interviews with Bosco Tech faculty and staff. The students were asked real-life questions and put through the process of applying for a job. Volunteer interviewers reviewed the internship candidates and asked them questions about their experience and future goals. Tech students annually complete summer internships with STEM-related organizations across the Los Angeles area, like The Boeing Company, L.A. Pediatric Society and Sozango Solutions, Inc.
Follow Bosco Tech on Social Media
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Introducing the Class of 2025 Welcome, Class of 2025! Here are more members and their families who attended the pick up event!
In Gratitude—Charitable Grant Updates The Bosco Tech community is extremely grateful for recent grants to our program:
March Dan Murphy Foundation $200,000 Blanche M. Walsh Charity Trust $ 3,000 Bosco Tech truly appreciates our benefactors who share our mission to educate young people. Please let us know if you have connections to a charitable foundation, or if your employer has a grant-making program. Contact Manager of Foundation Relations Anne Sigoloff at asigoloff@boscotech.edu or (626) 940-2027.
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BMET Bioscience Wet Laboratory Financial Aid Scholarships
Sports Update
—By Athletic Director Vincent Nolasco We have a busy month of sports scheduled for April: •
Football will play their last game on April 3 against St. Monica High School. Golf, Tennis, Soccer, and Baseball seasons will start this month.
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The Cross Country season has ended this past month. They were able to participate in four Del Rey dual-league meets this season. Every member that participated in each of the dual meets improved their time.
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We have begun the search for our new Lacrosse Head Coach. More information will be announced soon and we are waiting to hear for more information from the Pacific Lacrosse League regarding the Lacrosse schedule.
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The eSports program has concluded their first month of competition. Our digital athletes are participating in weekly matches in their games. For this unique season, PlayVS and the CIF State organization is having all eSports programs in one division. Weekly rankings and up-to-date stats are available through the PlayVS platform.
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Currently, our Madden 21 Varsity team is placed at #1 in the standings. Congratulations to Senior Vance Acuna, Sophomores Elijah Casillas and Jad Aribi, and Freshman Peter Cervantes for their hard work and great play!
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We are currently waiting for more information from the CIF Southern Section and Los Angeles County Department of Public Health regarding indoor sports (Volleyball and Basketball).
We are very proud of our student-athletes’ commitment and dedication! They are representing the school community very proudly! Follow Bosco Tech Athletics on Instagram; their Instagram name is: boscotechtigers. Go, Tigers!
Academic Counseling
—By Director of Counseling Ray Chavez There are two important announcements from the Academic Counseling Department: •
Bosco Tech will offer the PSAT 10 to all Sophomores on Thursday, April 29. The test will be on campus and all CDC safety requirements will be in place during the test day. More details to follow.
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On Wed., April 21, the Counseling Department will host a live ZOOM "Junior Parent/Student College Information night" event. This event is mandatory for all junior parents and students. Updated college admissions information will be explained and a special guest will be on hand to provide an opportunity for students to receive a college acceptance prior to the start of their senior year at Bosco Tech!
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Cross Country & Track & Field Update
—By Assistant Cross Country & Track & Field Coach Brad Stolz Cross Country This has been an unusual year for all sports, and cross country has been no exception. Our usual season is in the fall semester, from August/ September to the state finals right after Thanksgiving. We would have a league meet against maybe six teams and perhaps also an invitational meet against 30 or even up to 100 teams almost every week. This year, our season was Feb. 27 to Mar. 27, and we only had four league meets, no invitationals, and no post season meets. Each meet was a dual - only against one school. Our first was on the Bosco Tech campus (a first for us) against Cathedral. The second was at Bishop Amat against Amat, followed the next week against La Salle at St. Anthony’s Clark Field in Lakewood Village. It was here that everyone “PRed” (set a new personal record; some by over one minute to others by almost 6 minutes. Our final meet was against Bishop Montgomery at Pius/Mathias. Masks were worn at all times, with the runners having the option to lower them only during the middle of their race. The number of spectators was extremely limited. Our athletes were very grateful to be able to practice and compete, even under these restricted conditions. Our prayer and hope is that things will be much closer to normal next school year. Track & Field If you’re tired of sitting in front of a computer all day and would like to get outside, improve your immunity with some healthful vitamin D, and start getting back into shape, joining our track and field team would be a great way to do it. If you can run, jump, throw, we want you! Track & Field is great for a variety of events you can enter. We will be competing on the track in sprints (100, 200, 400 meters), distance runs (800, 1200, 1600 meters), relay races (4 X 1 and 4 X 4), and hurdles(110 & 300 meters). On the field we will be doing shot put and discus (football players are great at these). You can do several events during a meet. No experience needed; we will train you! The season itself will start in April after Easter break, but you can start conditioning with us right now, especially if you wish to be a distance runner. You will have to fill out some forms to join us. For information, contact Head Coach Blayze Fimbres: bfimbres@boscotech.edu
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Summer Scholar Applications Creating a neuron out of Play-Doh, a solar-powered car from compact discs, and a mini-crossbow to better understand the laws of physics–seventh and eighth graders in Bosco Tech’s Summer Scholar program always have a creative and productive summer! Applications for the popular hands-on, four-week summer school program will soon be available. 13
April 2021
Please note that dates, events and locations are subject to change, especially during COVID-19 restrictions. Check the school’s full calendar at www.boscotech.edu for the latest updates and for events rescheduled for later dates. Thurs.-Sun. 4/1-4/11 Thurs.-Mon. 4/1-4/5 Thursday 4/1 Friday 4/2 Saturday 4/3 Sunday 4/5 Monday 4/6 Tues.-Thurs. 4/6-4/8 Friday 4/9 Monday 4/11 Tuesday 4/13 Wednesday 4/14 Friday 4/16 Monday 4/19 Tuesday 4/20 Wednesday 4/21 Friday 4/23 Mon.-Fri. Monday Thursday Saturday Tuesday
4/26-4/30 4/26 4/29 5/1 5/4
Easter break (no school) Office closed Holy Thursday Good Friday Holy Saturday Easter Sunday Office closed Office hours are 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Office closed School resumes Parent Council meeting at 6 p.m. (virtual) Alumni Association meeting at 6 p.m. (virtual) Salesian Spirit Games II Character Assembly Hybrid instruction begins (see schedule below and Principal’s Message on page 2) Junior Parent College Planning Meeting at 6 p.m. Parent Council Coffee with the Principal at 8 a.m. Jazz Night Out AP Exam Prep Event Black Out (no schedule interrupting events on these days) Pre-AP Holiday (school closed) PSAT-10 for all sophomores (on campus) Feast of St. Joseph the Worker Teacher Appreciation Day
Hybrid Instruction Class Schedule—Starts 4/20 Beginning April 20, the hybrid school schedule will be: Period 1: 8:00-9:00 a.m. Period 2: 9:15-10:15 a.m. Period 3: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Period 4: 11:45-12:45 a.m. Help sessions: virtual after 2:00 p.m. Students should be picked up promptly after school and cannot remain on the campus, unless they are part of a sanctioned after-school activity. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to keep our students, faculty and staff safe and healthy!