February 2012 Volume Twenty-One Number 6
Dear Parents and Guardians, January has sped by and a new semester has begun for your son(s) and his teachers. It seemed like just moments ago that we were making New Year’s resolutions. There is still time for your son to make academic resolutions for the second semester if this be a need. Now is a perfect time to reflect together on successes and needed improvements. Goal setting between parents and their and sons is always productive. Sometimes, positive “carrots” (such as driver permits, etc.) are perfect motivating tools.
Lent will begin on Wednesday, February 22, 2012 with the distribution of ashes at school. Hopefully, this season will be an opportunity to refocus and make clear goals as a Christian. Our students will once again hold their weekly prayer services on Friday mornings in the Marian Chapel. These services are truly one of the highlights of this holy season. I encourage you to attend the Mother/Son Communion Brunch on Sunday, February 26, 2012, which is an event that always plays to a full house. Reservations are necessary and, once again, La Salle is thankful to Father
You know, all too well, the sacrifice that parents make today to provide a spiritual and quality education for their children. We are mindful each day here at La Salle of this sacrifice and thank you for entrusting your son(s) to our care.
My congratulations to this year’s inductees into the Hall of Fame – Brother James Rieck ’57 and Frank Cervone, Esq. ’75 – as well as the William J. Whelan Alumni Service Award honorees – Ed Feeney ’62 and Honorable William Benz, Esq. ’72. I sincerely hope that each of you enjoys February 29th. It is not often that we actually get an extra day to accomplish what we wish. Hopefully, this day will be an opportunity to do the things that you enjoy the most. Sincerely yours,
Brother Richard Kestler, FSC ’60 President
Leave to Serve Enter to Learn
January brought major news to the Catholic educational world with the announcement of the closing of fortyfive parish elementary schools and four high schools. One of these schools, West Catholic, has been a place of ministry for the Christian Brothers for eighty-six years. Having personally spent twelve years at West Catholic, I know of its success and how its closing will affect the lives of its students. La Salle will look seriously at several West Catholic students to see if we might be able to help them continue their Lasallian education. Please pray for all students affected by these changes and may these painful decisions result in the strengthening of Catholic education in Philadelphia.
Janton for sharing his priestly ministry. You are always welcome to simply stop by our campus, take in a winter athletic contest, or join one of our many parent club meetings or social events. Please remember that this is your “second home” as well as your son’s.
FAC U LT Y
The month of February includes socials for our students (Valentine Dance) on Friday, February, 10, 2012 and parents (Mardi Gras Dinner Dance) the following night. Believe it or not, the Men of La Salle will host a first ever Comedy Night on Sunday, February 12, 2012.
Dedicated
Our congratulations to Mr. John McGranaghan – an accomplished author, our freshman guidance counselor, and a member of our dedicated faculty – who was recently awarded the 2012 Learning Magazine Teachers’ Choice Award for his book Meet The Planets.