Notebook of Memories - 2021

A Notebook of Memories

Class of 2025

Dear Parents and Members of the Class of 2025: Thank you for your interest in Kellenberg Memorial High School. Welcome to our Notebook of Memories. We understand you have a very important decision to make and we have asked current members of our Senior Class to help. In the following pages they have shared their memories of why they chose Kellenberg Memorial and what it was like to first attend our school. We hope these stories help you in making your decision and that you will choose to become part of the firebird family and see why we say that Kellenberg Memorial is “a beautiful place to grow.�

“My love for Kellenberg started when I decided to stay after for the first time. At first I felt like high school was going to be a boring experience, but the first time I stayed after changed my view of high school. The cafeteria filled with kids being themselves, the countless clubs, and the amazing people I have met overtook me. Ever since that day I’ve stayed after almost every day, learning about myself and others. I have also joined over 5 clubs and even helped with the school plays. Kellenberg helped me realize my true self and took me in as if we were family.”

Terry Savaille St. Thomas The Apostle School St. Thomas The Apostle Parish West Hempstead

“When I first came to Kellenberg I was only in sixth grade, but I knew that this was where I belonged. The teachers were so welcoming and became such great role models to me. Throughout high school, my faith has only grown deeper and I am so appreciative of the opportunities I have had that have helped me to grow as a person of faith. Joining clubs such as P.R.E.P., S.M.A.R.T., and Sodality were some of the best decisions I’ve made, and I will forever be grateful for the lasting friendships this school has given me. Kellenberg is so much more than a school, it is a family”.

Laura Echausse Brother Joseph C. Fox Latin School St. Aidan’s Parish Mineola “I knew I made the right decision coming to Kellenberg from the moment I first walked into the building. No other school has a better atmosphere to learn. From the students to the teachers everyone makes you feel like family.”

Spencer Argentina Grand Avenue Middle School St. Raphael’s Parish Bellmore “I knew I wanted to go to Kellenberg even before my older sister realized that she wanted to go there. Kellenberg seemed like a far-off dream when I was in middle school. When I took the test, I knew I did bad so the dream seemed further away. I was so overjoyed when my mom greeted me from school with blue and gold balloons on one afternoon. Kellenberg is truly one, big, happy family. This place helped me grow as a student but also a person. I am sad to leave the best place on earth.”

Jenna Bryant Lindenhurst Middle School Our Lady of Perpetual Help Lindenhurst

“When I was in eighth grade and thought about my future I always pictured myself continuing through the public school system, but my parents decided it would be best for me to go to Kellenberg just like my dad did. I only knew one other person from my middle school who decided to go to Kellenberg, so I was very nervous about making new friends. My nerves were calmed the first day of Triple A. Here I met some of my best friends through the Catholic Experience summer camps, Homeroom, Soccer, Lacrosse, PREP, SMART, and CROSS. Being a part of Kellenberg is truly like being a part of a family, everyone cares and looks out for each other. I wish I could be a freshman so I can do it all over again because these have been the best four years of my life.”

Katie Costello Merrick Avenue Middle School Sacred Heart Parish Merrick “I always knew I wanted to spend my high school years at Kellenberg since my older two siblings went there. After attending the Latin School there was no doubt that I would love this school. This has truly been the best decision I have made. I have had countless opportunities to be a part of both athletics and activities. Also, I have made relationships with both my teachers and peers that I could not get anywhere else. Kellenberg is truly my second home. I would not be the person I am today without it.”

Price McAllister Floral Park Bellerose School Our Lady of Victory Floral Park

“I never would have thought that Kellenberg would become my home away from home. When I announced to my public school friends that I was leaving to attend a Catholic school named Kellenberg they were shocked. I was very nervous but as soon as I sat in homeroom for the first day of Triple A, I knew that I made the right choice to switch schools. I decided to join the Blue and Gold dance team freshman year and this was the best decision I ever made. I met so many people that became my best friends. Every faculty member and student makes you feel so welcomed and that’s what makes it feel like home. Kellenberg has provided me an amazing high school experience and I wish I could do it all over again.”

Raegan Duffy Weber Middle school St. Peter’s Church Port Washington “I always had a feeling I would go to Kellenberg for high school after my cousin decided to go here. I really made my decision in sixth grade when I came to see him play lacrosse for the school. I instantly fell in love. I knew this was the place I would want to spend four years of my schooling. Kellenberg is unlike any school because I truly believe everyone here is almost like a family. It’s a place that you can learn and get good grades, but also make amazing friends that you’ll have for life. It was definitely the right decision for me.”

Ed McCann Our Lady of Victory School Our Lady of Victory Parish Floral Park

“My Marianist education began at St. Martin de Porres Marianist School, so coming to Kellenberg was a no brainer. In the first few months of my freshman year, I really fell in love with the school to the point where I would say that we, the school and I, were in the honeymoon phase. I didn’t realize it at the time, but not only did the school provide me with the opportunity of meeting so many new and incredible people, it also provided me with the opportunity to grow in my faith life. You just can’t get that experience everywhere which is why I’m so thankful for choosing Kellenberg.”

Imani G. Chung St. Martin de Porres Marianist School St. Martha Roman Catholic Church Freeport “I knew I made the right decision coming to Kellenberg the second I walked into the school on the first day. I was such a nervous little freshman, I didn’t know how well things were going to go. I felt so welcomed coming into the building with all the kind teachers and students. Kellenberg felt and still feels like home. If I’ve had a rough morning arguing with my sister, I knew coming into the school would put my anxious nerves under control. One of my favorite places in the building is The ARK. The calm energy right when my loafers go up the spiral staircase. The minute your head pops up on the second floor all of the teachers welcome you with such joy and excitement. I will forever hold onto my memories I’ve made here at Kellenberg. One thing that will stick with me is I always know if I need anything, they’re here for me.”

Catrina Casella St Agnes Elementary School St Agnes Cathedral Parish Rockville Centre

“Coming into Kellenberg from Catholic elementary school, I thought it was just going to be the same boring and strict day to day life. But after my first couple weeks of Freshman year, I learned it was so much more than that. With the Marianist Mentors and all the upperclassmen being so friendly, I felt at home. From playing soccer, to joining PREP, CROSS, and Junior/Senior Retreat staff, I met so many people, from all grades, and really embraced the “One Heart, One Mind” aspect of the school. The summer going into sophomore year, I did Catholic Experience. I never thought that a camp dedicated to religion would be one of my favorite memories in high school. I met my best friends and made amazing bonds with teachers through a 5day camp. I always knew, I would never have a problem looking for someone to turn to at Kellenberg.”

Kathryn Engelhardt St. Agnes Cathedral School St. Agnes Cathedral Rockville Centre “Following in my two older brothers footsteps, I always knew I was going to attend Kellenberg. I’m glad my brothers picked such a great school, because I fell in love instantly. The teachers are like no other, truly guiding students in not only academics, but daily life. Through my four years here, Kellenberg turned from just my high school to my second home. I am forever grateful for the relationships and memories I made here. I wouldn’t trade my experience at Kellenberg for the world.”

Maeve Graham Long Beach Catholic Regional School St. Mary of the Isle Lido Beach

“Going into freshman year, I was very excited to become a part of the Kellenberg family. Entering as a freshman, all I wanted to do was get involved in “the school that never sleeps.” The clubs and activities at Kellenberg are fun and exciting. I joined the tennis team freshman year, and it was such a fun experience that gave me wonderful friends and coaches. If I had to describe Kellenberg in one word, it would be “opportunity”. I had the opportunity to explore intriguing clubs, try new things, grow closer to God, build friendships, and grow as a person in all aspects of my life.”

Chloe Milkowski St. Patrick’s School St. Patrick’s Parish Huntington “Upon attending Kellenberg as a seventh grader in the Latin School, I knew this was where I wanted to spend the rest of my high school career. My goal throughout this journey was to be as involved as I could in order to make an impression on others and as well as myself.

As a freshman, I knew I was in good hands by the family atmosphere the school provided. I most felt this feeling when I became involved in Eucharistic Minister, P.R.E.P, C.R.O.S.S, Retreat staff, and volleyball.

I am thankful for all the opportunities Kellenberg provided me, leading to a successful future.”

CJ Peknic Bro Joseph C. Fox Latin School St. Raymond’s Parish East Rockaway

“My most vivid memory from my entire Kellenberg experience would be the first day of sixth grade. Mrs. Page, the reading teacher in the Latin School, told my class that in what feels like a minute, all of us would be reminiscing on our time in Kellenberg at graduation. Time really does fly when you’re having fun, or at the right school. The teachers aid in the schooling process to make students feel more comfortable and at ease. I didn’t believe Mrs. Page at first, but before I knew it, I was a senior in the blue and gold striped sweater. The memories I made, people I met, and relationships I created will be with me for a lifetime.”

Ava Stanley Brother Joseph C. Fox Latin School Holy Family Parish Hicksville “Going to Kellenberg was a decision by the time I started elementary school. My mother and cousin were both Kellenberg graduates, and we would look forward to attending the Christmas Eve midnight mass as a family. As a kid, Kellenberg was magical, it felt like something out of a fantasy, and I knew that attending here would maximize my high school experience. As a freshman, I became part of that fantasy, and I knew that four years would not feel like enough. Throughout my four years, I managed to make lifelong friends, mentors, and have the most memorable experiences. I’m so grateful for the opportunities Kellenberg has offered me, and the Fields, Bell, and Belcher family have lifelong gratitude for Kellenberg Memorial High School.”

Breanne Bell St. Christopher’s School St. Christopher’s Church Parish Baldwin

“In the seventh grade my parents decided to send me to the Latin School. Although I was hesitant at first, I soon fell in love with the beautiful building, the friendly smiles, and the dogs roaming the hallways. When the time came, and I got to choose where to attend High School, I picked Kellenberg without any hesitation! Kellenberg has truly become my second home after these 6 years. Being a part of many sports teams and joining clubs has given me the opportunity to meet so many amazing people. The friendships I made her will last me a lifetime. I’m so thankful and lucky that I was able to attend Kellenberg.”

Mackenzie McAllister Floral Park Bellerose School Our Lady of Victory Floral Park “I went to the Latin School, so going into my Freshman year I already knew the building pretty well. I had the choice of staying in Kellenberg or transferring to another Catholic high school and I chose to stay in Kellenberg because of the relationship you have with your teachers and coaches. Your teachers and coaches truly care about you as a person and not just about your grades and performance on the field.

Kellenberg is more than just a school it’s like one big family and the people you meet have an amazing impact on your life.”

Zara Noce St. Thomas the Apostle School St. Thomas the Apostle Parish West Hempstead

“The main thing that stood out to me about Kellenberg was the great teachers I have met in my junior and senior year. I have built a strong bond with teachers like Mr. Tahany, Mr. Murphy and Mr. Basile. I’m always so excited when I see them in the hallway or teaching another class or if I need to talk to someone they will always be there for me.

Kellenberg has really helped me become a more open and outgoing person.”

Brandon Braithwaite Our Lady of Peace School Our Lady of Peace Parish Lynbrook “English class. Another foggy first period. Mr. Brown was out of class for the week. His substitute was Mr. Murphy, who I’d briefly known through my drama club audition— a heart-wrenching interpretation of Shakespeare’s To Be Or Not To Be. “With this regard our currents turn awry… and lose the name… of action.” With an intense stare, I finished my performance. Mr. Murphy kept his stoic gaze, and we said our goodbyes. I made it to the callback list but decided to drop out— at this point in my life, I lacked severe confidence. I did whatever I could to avoid disappointment. Now— months later— sitting with a Glass Menagerie test sheet before me in an early morning sophomore year English class, Mr. Murphy made his way down my row, and stopped in front of my desk. Peering below his thick lenses, he uttered words that changed my life. “You know, Eddie… I was gonna give you a part.” After a dramatic pause, he got up and walked back to his desk. Maybe— that is what high school is. It’s having the right people believe in you. It’s being given the chance to play the role of a lifetime.

It’s learning to be a dreamer. High school is having faith in the world, having faith in yourself, and learning to trust the mystery that goes on above us, around us, and within us.”

Edward Jansen St. Joseph School St. Joseph Parish Rockville Centre

“I have been a member of the Kellenberg family for seven years, but it feels more like eleven because that is how long my family has been going here. I came into sixth grade ecstatic about all of the dogs and the large student body. What has really shaped my Kellenberg experience is the life after school hours. Joining Drama Club and Communications Club and attending religious retreats showed me how Kellenberg is nothing short of one huge community. I have met people from all different grades with all different stories and talents and have been so lucky to be a part of the Kellenberg community and congratulations on becoming a Firebird!”

Clara Ambrosino Bro. Joseph C. Fox Latin School St. Catherine of Siena Parish North Valley Stream “I was one of three students going to Kellenberg from my grade consisting of 56 students. Many of them went to St. Anthony’s, Our Lady of Mercy and Chaminade. All of my friends who were going to Mercy asked why I wasn’t going there. “It’s so much closer and your sister went there” they would say. And my only response was that walking through the halls of Kellenberg during the open house felt like home. Being one of three kids from my school, I was extremely nervous on the first day of school, however I remember my Marianist Mentors, Kevin and Claire, talking to me when I walked into my homeroom. They were asking what I was interested in and told me About the different clubs and before I knew it I was a part of 3 or 4 clubs. During my time at Kellenberg I have made relationships with teachers and faculty, friends that will last forever and I have grown in my relationship with God immensely. After four years I can answer the question of why I came to Kellenberg in 9 simple words: Kellenberg is not only a family, but a home.”

Grace Cavanagh St. Patrick’s School St. Patrick’s Parish Huntington

“I always knew that I wanted to continue my high school education at Kellenberg, after the impact the school made on me throughout my Latin School years. Kellenberg gave me something no other high school could offer, it was a family of amazing friends and caring teachers. It truly is the school that never sleeps, I was given the opportunity to spread my wings and participate in activities like Sodality, PREP, soccer and lacrosse. Kellenberg has contributed to the growth I’ve made in my spiritual, academic, athletic, and social life in my seven years being a firebird. The memories and relationships made at this school will last a lifetime. Kellenberg was a home away from home and I will be forever thankful for what this school has done for me.”

Tara Brennan McVey Elementary School St. Raphael Parish East Meadow “Attending Kellenberg has been an amazing opportunity for me. I’ve felt at home ever since the first day I entered I entered Kellenberg.

One of my favorite memories at Kellenberg was when I was working the open house my Junior year. I was presenting the P.R.E.P. table in Emmanuel. It brought me so much joy to be sharing about one of my favorite clubs at Kellenberg and I focused on how P.R.E.P. helped me realize that I want to be an elementary education teacher. I am extremely thankful I get to call Kellenberg my home and I wouldn’t trade my time here for the world.”

Maria Krug Our Lady of Victory School Our Lady of Victory Parish Floral Park

“The moment I first walked into the doors of Kellenberg Memorial during open house, I was instantly filled with such comfort and belonging. I knew within the first few moments of being in the school that this was where I wanted to call home for the next four years.

Having attended Public school my entire life before freshman year, I definitely did not know what to expect and was scared. Mr. O'Brien's homeroom and my Marianist Mentors welcomed and helped adjust me to this new environment. Something that specifically stands out to me about this school is the relationships that are formed between the students and teachers. Over the years, I have become very close with teachers such as Mrs. Fiore and Miss Sindone. Their constant support and guidance is remarkable and so important to me. It truly feels like everyone is one, big family. I could not have imagined a better High School experience anywhere other than Kellenberg and will forever be grateful.”

Marina Raziano Carrie Palmer Weber Middle School St. Peter of Alcantara Parish Port Washington “A lot of my friends went to different high schools and coming to Kellenberg I was very nervous. I did not want to not end up having friends and feeling left out due to this. But by the time the first Day of Triple A finished I already had a couple new friends. There are so many new faces with common interests that I had a couple new friends every day during my freshman year. I felt so welcomed right away and after Triple A it was like I was meant to be here, and I made the right decision for my high school choice. I met some of my best friends from CROSS, Spanish club, and even just normal classes.

Being at Kellenberg I met some lifers as friends, and it’s been some of the best years of my life.”

Christian Caraballo St. Christopher School Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Parish Baldwin