LETTER FROM THE PRINCIPAL

The first semester of the 2022-2023 school year is almost in the books and I’m happy to share that this year—my second at Pius XI—has seen a return to normalcy in many ways, for both our students and the greater community. We’ve been able to come back together in ways we know and love, while also embracing new ways to grow together.

After two and half years of adjusting schedules to accommodate needs related to the pandemic, we have returned to the modular schedule that is familiar to decades of Popes. Current students are learning how to use the schedule to make the best of their Pius XI experience, taking advantage of resource opportunities and options that enhance their academic experience.

We’ve also seen support for our Performing Arts come back in full force with sold out performances of our fall play You on the Moors Now and the Dance Department’s fall show An Evening of Dance: Baby I’m a Star. There’s some excellent theater, choral music, band, orchestra, and dance performances planned for later in the school year. I invite you to join us for a show or two!

This summer, we welcomed LaKendra Brown to the school’s Leadership Team. LaKendra brings a background in special education and social emotional education to her role as Assistant Principal. She has already become a tremendous asset to my team in a short amount of time. You can read more about LaKendra on page 5 in this issue of EXAMEN.

After the challenges of the past few years, Campus Ministry has seen a renewed energy with a focus on retreat experiences to foster faith formation and connections, as well as the implementation of new service requirements for graduation. You can read more about Campus Ministry on page 8 of this issue.

Academically, we’re working to help all students reach their highest potential, by providing supportive programs and challenging courses. Our Writing Center, which follows a model similar to Marquette University, is home to 15 trained student tutors who provide assistance to students across the school on everything from class assignments to college essays. More than 12 Advanced Placement (AP) classes are offered this year and a newfound partnership with Milwaukee Area Technical College offers AP Biology for concurrent credit. Two classes are currently offered for college credit with the goal of adding more with increased partnerships.

As 2022 draws to a close, I’d like to thank the Pius XI community for your support and engagement this year, as our student body and loyal alumni are our greatest assets. I invite you to stay connected and look forward to seeing everything we will achieve together in 2023.

Ryan Krienke Principal