Lancerlines Alumni Edition 2015-2016

Alumni Edition 2015-2016

Saint George Catholic School

Academic Excellence † Leadership † Faith Development

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A Message from Principal Neubauer Dear Alumni & Friends, As we reflect on the 2015-2016 school year, we must acknowledge and celebrate the many wonderful learning experiences, service projects, and educational opportunities that have taken place at Saint George Catholic School. We have accomplished excellent academics through teaching and technology and held our students to high standards and expectations which they fulfilled.

I take great pride in serving our community with a Catholic school that has a longstanding tradition of Academic Excellence † Leadership † Faith Development.

We count on our network of parents, PTO, family members, our Pastor and Parochial Vicar, School Board, Music and Athletic Departments, our community, and God! We are a team! Together we achieve great things and see our students succeed. We are filled with the Saint George Catholic School spirit and the Holy Spirit!

Congratulations to our outstanding graduating class of 2016. Your leadership skills, service to others, character, and faith will continue to serve you well for years to come. Always remember that you are graduates today, but you will be alumni here forever! Continue to make us proud and remain in touch with us.

Thanks for another great year at Saint George Catholic School.

1612 Bryant Street ● Erie, PA 16509 ● 814-864-4821

www.sgs-online.org

† SAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC SCHOOL It was a memorable MEET THE TEACHER NIGHT Tuesday, September 15th Thanks to all our terrific teachers and the efforts of our PTO! Special thanks to all of our Auction Basket Donors, your support for our school is greatly appreciated!

Our New Student Open House and Meet the Teacher Night were definitely great events to begin the 2015-2016 school year. “It was a pleasure to see so many students and their families visit classrooms, meet teachers and staff, and enjoy the social vibe along the way,” said Assistant Principal, Mrs. Frick. We are all looking forward to a great school year. Principal Neubauer said “it’s great that we have a good working relationship with the parents because their support and commitment to their children, our many activities, and to our teachers and staff are what make us a strong school!”

Many took advantage of the opportunity not to cook dinner the evening of Meet the Teacher Night. PTO provided a “Grab & Go” sub sandwiches “Supper in a Sac” complete with chips and bottled water as a fundraiser to support PTO. The Multipurpose room was full of fun with raffle basket chances, Teacher Classroom Wish Lists to view, and our PTO President, Krista Ott, on recruit for new volunteers for the year.

THANK YOU GOD FOR OUR GRANDPARENTS & SENIOR FRIENDS! During the week of September 14th, Saint George School hosted the annual “Grandparents Day Celebration.” Saint George students in Kindergarten through Eighth grade invited their grandparents and special senior friends to experience a sense of our Saint George community while enjoying refreshments. Volunteer Moms, Fr. Brandon, Teachers, Mrs. Pirrello, and Mrs. Pacoe assisted with seating and serving our guests and students with efficiency and professionalism. They were a fantastic help from set-up and clean-up each day—everyone involved including Ms. Vogt and the Café Staff contributed to making a memorable event for the visiting grandparents and senior friends.

Our goodies were baked fresh daily by Mrs. Ferrick at Frank’s Farm Market & Bakery on Sterrettania Road. Mrs. Ferrick is the proud mother of Julia, Anna, and Gabriella, that attend Saint George School.

Beautiful assorted colors of Mum plants served as our table centerpieces. The Mums were also provided

by Frank’s Farm Market. We were awed by their hearty appearance and size. The Mums were for sale with a $3.00 donation given to the teacher of choice to assist with the purchase of classroom “Wish List” items.

Many of our guests enjoyed pondering over a special item to donate from “Teacher Classroom Wish Lists.”

Excitement filled the school as donations of requested items, gift cards, and monetary gifts arrived. We are very grateful to all our parents, grandparents, and special senior friends for their generosity. Even now, several weeks later, teachers are continuing to receive surprise gifts. Many wishes have come true, special thanks to you!

Following the reception, Grandparents were invited to visit classrooms where they were entertained by class presentations and activities. Our 8th-grade students attended our children-led liturgy on Friday, September 18th.

Following Mass, the students escorted their Grandparents and senior friends to our café for goodies.

Each morning ended with displays of affection— a final hug, a big kiss and a long wave goodbye, the grandparents departed… and classes resumed. God has blessed the SGS community through you—with a strong foundation of faithful and interested grandparents and grand friends!

† FAITH DEVELOPMENT A BIG SERVICE PROJECT COMPLETED

BY KIDS WITH BIG HEARTS! Super Saint George School service minded kids and Saint George Parish Youth Group kids gathered in the school’s gymnasium on Monday, August 17th to make no-sew fleece blankets.

The blankets will be donated to the Erie County Office of Children & Youth to distribute to children transitioning into the foster system in Erie county. The colorful cuddly-soft blankets provide comfort and security to these children who are frightened and experiencing a difficult time. The students’ motivation and commitment demonstrated to the cause proved that a great deal of satisfaction results from teamwork and the accomplishment of each blanket made.

The students learned of the benefits to the recipient of each blanket and that by volunteering and serving others make's everyone’s lives better!

Service Project Coordinator, Miss Marielle Lafaro, Saint George Parish Youth Group Leader, Mr. Mike Palmer, and Saint George Parochial Vicar, Fr. Brandon Kleckner lent a hand to help. 25 Blankets were completed in a little over 2 hours of time!

Patriot’s Day Mass of Remembrance September 11, 2015 Saint George Students honored the memory of all those whose lives were changed forever by the events of September 11, 2001, at the 9:00 a.m. School Mass celebrated by Msgr. Brugger and concelebrated by Fr. Kleckner.

Erie Firefighter, Mr. Fred Gillespie, and an honor guard led the entrance procession carrying the flag of the United States, as Mass began. Later he spoke briefly about the significance of the commemoration and concluded by leading all in a “Prayer for Patriot Day.” We pray for our Nation and special blessings upon all emergency workers, police officers, and firefighters who serve in our community.

SAINT GEORGE’S WEEKLY SCHOOL MASSES Saint George School students and staff attend weekly student-led school masses, on Fridays at 9:00 a.m.

Friends and families are welcome to join us!

† ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

The newest addition to Academic Excellence at Saint George School, for the 2015-2016 school year, is the 2-year-old “2 Start Smart” littlest learning lancers! This program is an alternative to typical 2-year-old childcare programs. Our program is designed to acquaint children with all of the important fundamentals for preschool success and life-long learners through teacher directed activities. Children enrolled in the program will learn and grow through a variety of activities including free play, small and large group interaction, songs, repetition, and discovery. Our program offers a small class size of 10-12 students a day, with our Smart Program teacher, Mrs. Jennifer Szewczykowski and four teacher aides, Mrs. Kate Beckage, Mrs. Priscella Gustafson, Mrs. Maureen Rose, and Mrs. Adrienne Steppic. We believe in helpful reinforcement and age-appropriate methods for perception and development. Mrs. Szewczykowski said, “the program is only one month underway and we are already witnessing success with learning with the children!” Parents of our enrolled students have commended the program— the curriculum components, the themes, activities, structure, and routine. Parents have mentioned the overall improvement in their child’s vocabulary and wished they had an option like this to consider sooner! Parents are delighted with the artwork and fun learning activities. Parents have noted improvement in their child’s ability to interact more positively at home with following rules, sharing, better interaction with siblings, and transition easily from one thing to the next when required.

† SAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Our sincere thanks to you—for your support and generous gifts—Saint George School was able to enhance our school in many ways. We thank you for your commitment to our students and our school.

We are grateful and blessed to have you as a part of our Saint George Community!

Thanking God for you and all that you do. Blessings always~ Larry Neubauer, Principal

† SAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC SCHOOL SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI BLESSING FOR PETS As a celebration of this popular Saint’s feast day, Fr. Brandon Kleckner conducted a special service for our students and families on Friday, October 2nd with a blessing for pets. The service was held at the school’s “green-space” where our pets accepted their blessing and a sprinkle of holy water with dignity!

The Lancer Library wishes a special Thank You to George Blakeslee again this year. He has made a generous donation to improve the Biography section of our Library.

George’s love of books and generosity to St. George will be enjoyed by students now and for many years to come!!

Saint George School awarded a $982.00 Grant for the Lyrical Lancers Show Choir for the 2015-2016 school year

The goal of the PPA Grant program is to “get art in the hands of Pennsylvanian’s” stated Melinda Meyer, Grant Manager at Erie Arts & Culture. The program provides Project Stream Grants within a five-county footprint which includes Erie, Crawford, Mercer, Venango and Warren Counties.

Project Stream grants support timely arts projects rated highly by a volunteer panel reflective of our five-county region and approved by Erie Arts & Culture’s Board of Directors.” For 2015-2016, $34,976 was awarded to qualifying grantees.

Mrs. Nicole Mancuso attended the Grant Funds Reception, on Sunday, October 11th at the Franklin, PA Barrow-Civic Theatre, when Saint George School, Lyrical Lancers Show Choir directed by Mrs. Mancuso, was awarded a $982.00 Grant from Erie Arts & Culture, a partner with the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (PCA), available through the Pennsylvania Partner in the Arts (PPA).

Lancers Against litter!

“Saint George School Coastal Clean-up Kids” participate for the fourth year in a row collecting trash and debris at Presque Isle State Park, Beach 11, on Saturday, September 19th.

USED SHOES FOR MISSIONS Student Council

wrapped up their used shoe drive Friday, October 16th as they presented the school with a moving prayer service.

The media came out to cover the story and get footage of the students loading cart-fulls of shoes that filled an entire school bus. Student Council went with advisor Miss Lafaro to bring the hundreds of pairs of shoes to the local mission, Chosen International, on West 26th Street. The shoes were a way for the SGS family to participate with the efforts of a group who assists people in need both locally in Erie, across our country, and internationally in 110 countries.

It was a perfect way to celebrate World Mission Sunday as a school! Way to go, Saint George community!

† FAITH DEVELOPMENT

Pope Francis is changing the Church and the World day by day. Bishop Persico is changing the Diocese.

Do not be a voice of uncertainty, be a voice of change. We need a vibrant future for Catholic Education for generations to come!

PHOTOS OF THE ADVENTURES OF FLAT FRANCIS FLAT FRANCIS the “paper Pope” made his rounds around the 2-grade students. The children and their families took selfies and created photos of smiles and inspiration— the excitement of the pontiff’s visit to the U.S.!

VISIT TO SEE POPE FRANCIS

by Mary Claire Stark My pope visit was a great trip. It was not only fun, but spiritual!

I started my trip off by leaving Erie on September 22 right after school and getting to Washington D.C. around 9 p.m. The next day we woke up and went straight to the church that Pope Francis was going to be saying mass at. We continued to walk around the city and find the perfect place to watch the pope as he went through the papal parade (it took about 2 hours). We finally got to the perfect place… behind rows and rows of people, but through God’s grace we got exceptionally close and waited. The moment finally came and we saw him! It was a great experience.

My family and I continued on our journey the next day by leaving for Philadelphia to see him a second time. When the pope got to Philly we went to mass (sadly not with him) then went to the World Meeting of Families!!! I have to say that it was the most exciting thing ever! We heard him and his speech and not only that, but saw some of the most famous singers perform! The pope was very profound. The trip was one of my favorites and I would definitely encourage others to see him as well at the next opportunity. :)

† SAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Monster Mash was a great big smash!

Our wonderful Saint George School PTO sponsored the first “Monster Mash” Family Fun Event on Friday, October 23rd. It was a great way to kick off the school year. A great way for new families to get involved and meet other families at SGS. It was a well-attended event by students, teachers, and families with the emphasis on fun! We can’t thank PTO enough for the many hours of preparation! There was something for all ages – amazing decorations and decor, a dunking booth that featured surprise guests, games, a giant bouncy slide, raffle baskets, pizza & pop, a DJ and dancing. Kids had fun with their family and school friends and the opportunity to wear their costumes more than once! All that attended had a great time and plans are underway to make next year’s “Monster Mash” an even bigger and better smash!

Classroom Halloween Parties were filled with tricks & treats on Friday, October 30th!

Here’s a look at the creative costumes worn by our SGS students and faculty!

† SAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC SCHOOL WICU TV 12 Morning News Live Broadcast SAINT GEORGE SCHOOL IS COOL! The cool Fr. Brandon, students, teachers, parents, and administrators of SGS arrived early Friday morning, November 13th, eager to show the Erie Community what Saint George's Cool School is all about! Kara Coleman and Mark Soliday from WICU TV 12 did their morning news broadcast live from our "Lancer" Gymnasium.

Saint George School’s “Cool School Video” featuring Fr. Brandon Kleckner was one of the four winning videos! The Erie Community Credit Union awarded SGS a $250.00 check and Fortis Institute awarded a beautiful Seiko wall clock that plays Christmas Music.

Check out these cool photos from the live broadcast. The cast members of the “Aristocats Kids, Jr.” were featured performing their finale, youth group members talked of community service efforts, Mr. Neubauer was interviewed along with the coolest member of Saint George School, Fr. Brandon!

We extend a special thank you to Ben Ladaika, a Senior student at Cathedral Prep and his video crew for helping Saint George produce our winning video. An even bigger thanks are extended to Fr. Jabo, President of Cathedral Prep, for granting permission to Ben and his crew to partake in this fun and exciting opportunity!

The Drama Club Members presented the 2nd Annual Fall Musical Production Disney’s “The Aristocats Kids Jr.” thanks to the generosity of an “anonymous donation” to the Theater Department.

Two “Purr-fect” performances were held in the school’s gymnasium November 14th and 15th. The shows were a complete success thanks to the hard work, dedication, and talent of our cast and crew members, parent volunteers, and, of course, our most exceptional Music Director, Mrs. Nichole Mancuso.

† SAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC SCHOOL Lancer Student Ambassadors: Saint George Catholic School 2015-2016 Annual Appeal Chair Family

Mike Rahner, Mike Lupo, Tyler Wiseman, Alexandra Valerio, Elisabeth Rowe, Madeline Slater

The Rahner Family We are honored to be the Chair Family for the 2015-2016 Annual Appeal. It’s hard to believe that eighteen years have passed since our son RJ started preschool. Walking back through the doors that were last exited in 1978 felt like coming home. We made a conscious decision in purchasing a home that allowed us to send our four children to Saint George School. It was a reunion, as ten of my 1978 Saint George classmates had also made the same decision and returned with their children.

As parents, we try to give our children the very best. Enrolling them at Saint George was certainly the right choice to start them on the path to responsible adulthood. The bond that was created between clergy, teachers, administration and classmates is still strong with each one of our children. It helps to know that our children’s friends and families also share and promote the same Christian values.

A Saint George Catholic education means that our children have learned with a faith-based curriculum. It sets a strong moral compass to help in their life-long decision making. A Catholic education comes with financial sacrifices, but those sacrifices have been worth it.

Your support of the Annual Appeal provides funding to the Saint George School operating budget and tuition assistance for those families in need. Please join with us to help continue the legacy of Saint George School’s academic excellence, leadership and faith development for many years to come.

Thank you for your support, John and Peggy Rahner & Family Peggy John David Julia RJ Michael

(SGS Class of 1978) (SGS Class of 1978) (SGS Class of 2012) (SGS Class of 2009) (SGS Class of 2008) (SGS Class of 2016)

Lancer Student Ambassadors for the 2015-2016 school year are student volunteers dedicated to the positive promotion of the Saint George Catholic School 2015-2016 Annual Appeal and the prosperous giving to support our school. We exist today because of your contribution and commitment to Saint George School. Help our Lancer Ambassadors help our school! The Annual Appeal is the basis of our fundraising efforts. The generous gifts we receive from parents, grandparents, family, friends, teachers, staff, alumni, alumni parents, businesses, and our parishioners all support our exceptional school! Your gift reflects your thankfulness for what we do at Saint George School! We need a vibrant future for Catholic Education for generations to come!

A LITURGICAL CELEBRATION IN HONOR OF ALL SAINTS DAY (NOV. 1) AND ALL SOULS’ DAY (NOV. 2) Students, faculty, and staff gathered together on Thursday, October 29th in observance of All Saints' Day to com commemorate all the faithful departed.

Each class selected a Patron Saint to honor. One representative from each class was dressed in garments reflective of the saint. Another class representative read a short biography.

Prayers appointed for the day remind us that "Blessed are they the Holy Ones."

May the Blessings of The Saints be showered upon you always!

† ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Miranda Bly, 8th Grade Student

Outstanding Academic Achievement Miranda Bly was offered a $1,000 Tuition Scholarship for receiving the number one score on the 2015 Villa Maria Academy Entrance Exam. More significant than the cash award is the fact that she finished in the position that she did. This year, nearly 140 eighth grade students representing 25 different parochial, public, and private schools sat for the first exam. Clearly, this is a great achievement!

8th Grade Student Michael Oblich, One of the “Top 10 Scores” Cathedral Preparatory School Entrance Exam Michael was offered a $1,000 Renewable Tuition Scholarship for receiving one of the top ten scores (number three) on the 2015 Cathedral Preparatory School Entrance Exam. This year, nearly 200 eighth grade students representing 40 different parochial, public, and private schools sat for the first exam. Congratulations Michael!

Congratulations to Michael Rahner, One of the “Top 10 Scores” 8th Grade Student, Michael Rahner was offered a $500 Renewable Scholarship for receiving one of the top ten scores (number six) on the 2015 Cathedral Preparatory School Entrance Exam.

Congratulations to Benjamin Ott, One of the “Top 10 Scores” 8th Grade Student, Benjamin Ott was offered a $500 Renewable Scholarship for receiving one of the top ten scores (number 10) on the 2015 Cathedral Preparatory School Entrance Exam.

An ALUMNI GIFT is one of the best ways to demonstrate your loyalty and love for your alma mater. Show your appreciation for the education and development Saint George School provided!

Give a goodwill gift that keeps giving to future generations!

We are grateful for your generosity!

SGS ALUMNI...

† SAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC SCHOOL Getting into the Grinch-mas Spirit First Grade students and teachers enjoyed some Grinch Day Holiday Fun with a day filled with Grinch-themed activities and holiday snacks. The students and teachers were all dressed in their Grinch Day green garb for their special day.

To complete the day a special story-time featuring the holiday classic “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” was read to the students by Principal Neubauer and Assistant Principal, Mrs. Frick. The Grinch has an important message for all ages. Mr. Neubauer reminded the students… “we all feel a little Grinchy sometimes, but we must behave like the nice Grinch and do good deeds—as even simple acts of kindness can warm even the Grinch’s heart!”

Mrs. Frick told the students that “Christmas is not just about opening presents, but much more– it is about opening our hearts!” Mr. Neubauer and Mrs. Frick wanted to reinforce the message that Christmas is not just about giving and receiving gifts, but doing things from your heart. “We all need to focus on the kindness of the Whos and how that helped to grow the Grinch’s heart—because kindness matters!”

Artwork by: Anna Ferrick 6th Grade

A Holy Jubilee “YEAR OF MERCY” declared by Pope Francis began December 8th, to be celebrated until November 20, 2016. Pope Francis is encouraging all to “be merciful like God the Father” by practicing the act of Mercy in our daily lives.

8th-grade students led the student body and staff in the Divine Mercy Chaplet. Saint George will offer many opportunities this year for our students to participate in the works of the Year of Mercy.

The opening of the Year of Mercy fell on the feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary. Saint George students, teachers, and staff attended Mass offered for the Holy Day of Obligation.

This month of December, let us live out our faith and develop a more devout habit of regular prayer. Let us be “united in faith” and celebrate the holy Eucharist at Mass together. Join us for our weekly student-led liturgies on Friday mornings at 9:00 a.m. in the Church.

Let us practice the act of Mercy on every occasion, in every way, every day!

† SAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Kindergarten through First Grade Students went on tour on December 18th to perform for the residents at Golden Living. Ready to share the spirit of Christmas, the children dressed in costumes and their Christmas shirts, boarded the Saint George School Tour Buses to perform songs from their Christmas Program “Sing Alleluia Sing.”

On December 21st, the children performed the Christmas Program, in the church, for family and friends. The program coordinated by Mrs. Kathy Kerner accompanied the children on the piano.

Our performers received raving reviews after both performances!

Cheers of applause filled the church along with the exchange of the Merriest Christmas Wishes to all!

†ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE The Lyrical Lancers have a genuine passion for music which is evident with their spectacular performances. You may have seen one or more of their live shows on stage at the Festival of the Trees, The Cathedral Prep Events Center Wrestling Tournament when they sang the National Anthem, or their Christmas Show "One Magic Christmas" at the expERIEnce Children's Museum.

Terrific talent at Saint George School!

Mrs. Terry Sweny Golden Apple Award Recipient!

Congratulations Mrs. Sweny on being the recipient of this well-deserved award in honor of your teaching!

Mrs. Sweny was completely surprised when WJET-TVs Lou Baxter and Dr. Mary Jo Melvin from Edinboro University, accompanied by Principal Neubauer, made an unannounced visit to her classroom to present the Golden Apple Award. The classroom filled with cheers from the students along with a long round of applause. Mrs. Sweny was humbled by the accolades on her behalf and she smiled proudly at her students with tears in her eyes.

Mrs. Sweny teaches 7th-8th grade Social Studies. She was nominated by two of her students Gabriella Ferrick and Jenna Bevan.

Watch the video clip which aired on December 9, 2015, on WJET-TV 24 on our website or Facebook page.

Our Cultural Past

By Student Reporter: Miranda Bly

On November 10, the 7th and 8th grade shared a piece of their family with each other. Everyone was required to decorate a box, find items/pictures of value, and research according to their family and a particular country that their ancestors immigrated from. Student from Gannon University came to talk to us about culture and helped us start our projects. Many people brought in traditional food, photos, and family heirlooms.

Engagement rings, Ukrainian eggs, wedding veils, family bibles, a Vietnamese prayer robe, pizzelles, croissants, a German chocolate cake, polish cookies, wedding pictures, and a photo of Elis Island registry are just a sample of what was brought in by the students.

This assignment helped the Junior High understand different cultures and countries better by bringing a more personal approach to history. The Gannon students were very impressed with the content of the Culture Kits and the work students put into the project.

† SAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

National Catholic Schools Week January 31 —February 6 st

th

2016

Catholic Schools Week at Saint George Catholic School was filled with fun activities with student buddies, Jazzercise in the gym, Vocation chats with local clergy members, recitation of the Rosary after Mass, movies, Lyrical Lancers Show Choir performance, Religious Jeopardy, and fun options to dress out of uniform.

Students, faculty, and administrators at Saint George Catholic School were given the opportunity to participate in a “Serve our Community Dress-Down Donation Drive for the Regional Cancer Center.” Students donated a minimum of $1.00 and dressed out of uniform for the day. School spirit shirts, team jerseys, athletic wear and their favorite—blue jeans with sneakers excused the traditional school uniform. Each year, the community service effort is established for a different cause determined by the CSW Committee at SGS under the direction of Mrs. Joanne Donohue, chairperson. This year the students’ donations totaled $550. The Regional Cancer Center Foundation Director, Lisa Louis, gratefully accepted the donation in front of the SGS student body gathered at Saint George Church. The students were delighted that their small efforts to help people in our community with cancer generated a big outcome!

†LEADERSHIP Our Saint George Junior High students, chaperones, and Miss Lafaro participated in the March for Life in Washington, D.C.—the 43rd annual pro-life rally. Despite the major snowstorm and state of emergency, everyone made it home safely.

Amen!

VOCATION AWARENESS Let us pray for Religious Vocations During Catholic Schools Week several clergy members and religious sisters visited Saint George School to educate our students about vocations.

We would like to recognize: Fr. Brandon, Msgr. Brugger, Deacon Bob, Fr. Mayer, Fr. Santor, Fr. Priscaro, Fr. Steve, Fr. Rouch, Fr. Ross, Fr. Demartines, Fr. Jason, Fr. Polinek, Sr. Fischer, Sr. Schroeck, and Sr. Josephine.

Saint George School Ambassadors were busy with a Candy Sale in February. The students and staff participated by purchasing 25 cent candy treats. The two-day sale raised $170.00 for the Tuition Angel Fund for scholarship awards to help offset tuition costs.

It was a great way to get a small treat and give back to our school community. Our students learned about giving and helping those in need right here at SGS. The Ambassadors learned that their sales required minimal work, tasted great, and made others feel good too!

† LEADERSHIP

Thirty students from Saint Peter Cathedral School were invited to Saint George School for a “Shadow Day the Lancer Way!” The children were introduced to grade level peers, teachers, and resources at SGS. “We paired each student with a Lancer leader.” We wanted them to feel connected and see themselves as a valued student at our school, “ said Principal Neubauer. The children sat in on classes with their potential classmates/teachers and enjoyed a hot lunch in our Lancer Café. At the end of their Shadow Day, the children gathered in our Multi-Purpose Room for a Question & Answer Session with Mr. Neubauer. The children exclaimed genuine appreciation for their day and goodbyes to their new acquaintances.

Principal Neubauer personally escorted the children to the Lancer Bus for transport back to Saint Peter Cathedral School.

Smiling, Mr. Neubauer stated that “the students departed with the inspiration and motivation to be successful at SGS thanks to the staff, teachers, and Lancer leaders!” We hope our shadow day “the Lancer Way” provided all the Saint Peter Cathedral Students with a sense of excitement and energy to look forward to beginning the new school year HERE!

CHILDREN IN THE 1800’s at Saint George Mrs. Kalie’s 6th-graders showed a great deal of respect and appreciation for all the modern conveniences and advances in technology that they have today in life– especially their cell phones and computers! After studying life of children in the 1800’s, life today is pretty good! Life for the early-Americans must have been really difficult!

They learned that children then had to balance school with a full day’s work of manual labor of adult responsibilities. Students agreed that this was a hard life! They dressed in hats and aprons to represent clothing from the era.

When the children back then, had free time, which wasn’t often, they would enjoy playing games. Our students decided to give this a try.

They experienced a lot of fun and challenge playing games without their electronic devices! They made homemade butter and then spread it on homemade biscuits baked by Mrs. Kalie.

At the end of the lesson, our SGS students agreed that the lives of the children in the 1800’s were something to admire as their lives had to be physically exhausting and lacked time for the kind of fun kids experience today! The kids admitted it would be hard to have fun without Apps on devices, electronic gaming devices, 3D movies, computers, and Wi-Fi!

† ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE 4th Grade Students Celebrate Dr. Seuss’s Birthday

Saint George School 4th-grade students participated in the “ReadQuest” Reading Challenge formerly known as “Read the Most from Coast to Coast,” a nationwide reading celebration this year held on February 26th. The event brings students across the country together, to celebrate the power of reading.

This year marked the 5th Annual event to challenge students with reading while exceeding the record for the number of Accelerated Reading Quizzes taken on February 26, 2016. Using AR computerbased quizzes, which assess and provides immediate feedback on students’ reading comprehension, the program tracked the number of quizzes passed and instantly shared the results on a live counter.

The final books read total was 3,763,408 And... Mr. Neubauer is pretty sure that our SGS 4th grade speed readers read the 763,408 books because… “The more things that you read the more things you will know and the more

things that I think are usually so! “ Principal Neubauer

Kindergarten Celebrated Dr. Seuss’s Birthday with the Cat in the Hat and the “Whooo” that everyone knows…

Mrs. Jones!

Give a gift big or small –we appreciate them all!

A Book is a meaningful way to honor or remember a special person in our lives.

S AINT G EORGE S CHOOL

LANCER LIBRARY MEMORIAL BOOK PROGRAM A “memorial bookplate” noting the name of the person memorialized or to be honored, along with the donor(s), will be inserted in the front cover of the book.

All donors and the party to be memorialized or honored will receive an acknowledgement of their gift, which will note the title of the book selected and a copy of the bookplate.

Memorial donations of any denomination to the Saint George School Library are greatly appreciated!

The MEMORIAL BOOK PROGRAM at Saint George School Lancer Library may be used by those who wish to designate a book “in memory of” or “in honor of” a loved one, a family member or relative, an associate, an organization, a birthday, teacher or special event.

H ONOR

OR MEMORIALIZE A FRIEND OR LOVED ONE , OR SHOW SUPPORT OF A SPECIAL EVENT BY SHARING THE GIFT OF READING !

Those making monetary donations may request or recommend how their contributions are to be used as well as suggest subject area for books.

Many delightful and educational books, purchased and received through these gifts, have enhanced the Saint George School Library’s collection, and for that we are truly grateful!

TO PURCHASE A MEMORIAL BOOK, submit a note designating the party to be memorialized or honored and the name of the donor, along with a check payable to the Saint George School Library.

Submit to: Saint George School Library Memorial Book Program,1612 Bryant Street, Erie, PA 16509

† ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE ART EXPERTS ON EDLINE Saint George students are learning the elements and principles of art through lines, shapes, colors, form, texture, repetition and balance. Students also develop an understanding of atmospheric perspective “the relationship of an object and the viewer’s perspective.” In all grades, students are taught about size, detail, contrast, shading and applying color to their artwork.

Art is a 40 minute class for all students at SGS. Students in grades 1– 4 attend class one period every week. Students in 5th and 6th grade have art for two class periods each week. 7th and 8th graders attend art class four days a week for one-quarter of the school year.

Art Education Teacher, Mr. Richard Stubenhoefer, stated: “I like to teach with a balance of working toward each student’s potential without overwhelming them.”

The Art classroom resembles a studio with an inviting, comfortable atmosphere, Artwork is accomplished at tables that accommodate up to four students.

Students are free to talk and share ideas while completing art projects—something not always common in other subjects or classrooms!

Mr. Stubenhoefer makes sure that his students understand that in Art Class it is okay to think, ponder, try out, experiment, analyze, revise, repeat, make mistakes, and end up with a genuine success... a piece of art to claim as your very own! A piece of art to really be proud of!

Art lessons allow for masterpiece creations while applying decision-making skills. Comfort, confidence, and expression are essential in art. Art is one class where students can think, decide, select materials, chose and control their ideas into an art masterpiece on paper. The result? Better thinkers and decision makers!

Communication at home about artwork is a new requirement for Art Class.

Students will bring completed art projects home in their Wednesday Folder.

Each project or student art masterpiece will be accompanied by an “Art Share and Aware Form.” The purpose of the form is to encourage communication between students and their parents or guardian. Students are required to “share the details” of the piece by explaining the concepts and objectives of the project.

The parent/guardian must sign the form that they are “aware” of their child’s translation.

All artwork is photographed by Mr. Stubenhoefer and featured on Edline. Check out the SGS Art Experts Gallery on Edline. The gallery slideshow features recent projects and is updated by the end of the quarter.

Mr. Stubenhoefer encourages parents to celebrate the success of their young artist’s work by placing it on display at home!

† ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Saint George School 5th & 6th Grade ANNUAL SCIENCE FAIR February 9, 2016 5th and 6th-grade students at SGS explored science with fun and interesting science fair projects and experiments.

Students were required to select a project topic, complete research, design an experiment, and then complete the project according to Scientific Method. Display boards filled the Multi-purpose Room for judging on February 9th.

Evaluating the projects was difficult for our judges, but with a little help from God— Fr. Brandon decided they were all “WAY COOL!”

5th-Grade Winners: Caitlyn Elwell, Kyan Snyder-Mills, Alexis Yoculan, Tony VanDamia, Brett Dalton, Sophia Cuzzola

6th-Grade Winners: Delaney Nystrom, Anthony Cuzzola, Catie Abbate, Conor Russell, Jason Hetrick, Ashlynn Allgeier JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT VISITS SAINT GEORGE SCHOOL March 3, 2016 Junior Achievement volunteers from GE visited SGS to deliver programs to our Kindergarten through grade 8 classrooms. Many of the volunteers were “Moms and Dads” of our students! This made their visit even more exciting!

Our students were able to get a taste of what it’s like to be an adult and experience thinking in the workplace. The educational programs offered students the opportunity to learn while enthusiastically involved in realistic tasks associated with the business world. Students transitioned to employees and employers through lessons presented by the JA volunteers. The volunteers were professional and social. The students were welcoming and focused on their facilitator. Saint George students learned about the importance of work qualities and skills, financial knowledge– money matters and entrepreneurship– the economics in the grown-up world. The experience encourages kids to explore careers in fields that they might otherwise never have given a thought about. Our students were very engaged in the activities and had lots of fun.

We appreciate this wonderful experience and all the facilitators for serving as volunteers!

† FAITH DEVELOPMENT

Holy Lent

STATIONS OF THE CROSS

Saint George Catholic School students celebrated Mardi Gras, the Tuesday before Lent, with a day of traditional practices at school.

The children wore purple, gold, or green shirts, socks, and hats. Bright colored beads to complete their outfits were a fun accessory for the day. The children gathered in the gymnasium to sing and perform “silly songs” followed by the traditional burying of the Alleluia prayer service.

The Season of Lent began with the distribution of Ashes at Mass. Lenten promises is our focus for 40 days– a time to change things in our lives that separate us from Jesus. Whether we give something up, or add something to our daily lives we strive to become closer to Jesus. Keeping Lent resolutions can be difficult, but for our students it’s a good lesson on trying and not giving up!

Planning a Saint George School Class Reunion?

The ideal venue for your class reunion is at the school itself.

Bring back memories for classmates and make a nostalgic evening!

Plan to include a tour of Saint George Catholic School in your Class Reunion agenda.

Contact us to help 864-4821 X276

The students in 5A worked together to create the Stations of the Cross for their homeroom. The idea was generated from a project Maggie Gallagher had done with her family. The students worked with a partner to assemble a frame for their assigned station. They used popsicle sticks to create the frame and then decorated the frame to give it their own personal touch. Each group then colored their assigned Station of the Cross and it was then glued into the frame. Mrs. Lopez positioned each station around the Crucifix. This project will now remain in the 5A homeroom as a permanent reminder of Christ’s journey on the cross.

We congratulate the Saint George School 5th & 6th grade students DIOCESAN SCIENCE FAIR “First & Second Place” WINNERS April 21, 2016 5th-Grade Winners: Caitlyn Elwell, Kyan Snyder-Mills, Alexis Yoculan, Tony VanDamia, Brett Dalton, Sophia Cuzzola

6th-Grade Winners: Delaney Nystrom, Anthony Cuzzola, Catie Abbate, Conor Russell, Jason Hetrick, Ashlynn Allgeier

† ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE The “PURRFECT cause!

First grade recently read a story about a veterinarian who worked at an animal shelter. The students were captivated!

Mrs. Lytle and Mrs. McAndrew invited a volunteer from Orphan Angels Cat Sanctuary & Adoption Shelter to be a guest speaker. Elizabeth, one of the volunteer caretakers of cats and kittens talked about the benefits and responsibilities of serving at the shelter. She brought along “Harlow,” who quickly became the new furry first-grade friend! The students learned how to stay safe and what to do if a stray animal is near. Everyone talked about their responsibility to love and care for all of God’s creatures.

First-graders teamed up to collect canned and dried cat food, toys, and other items to offer as a caring contribution of kindness for cats and kittens at the Cat Sanctuary.

Elizabeth gratefully accepted the “purrfect” donations.

Look outside now, can you say... what the weather is today?

WJET TV-24 Action News at Noon Meteorologist Tom DiVecchio visited Saint George School first-graders with a ray of light fun with the forecast & the wonder of the weather!

Third grade students turned their weird trash into unique sculptures and artistic treasures!

† ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE THE CIRCLE OF LIFE WILL GUIDE US ALL… Hakuna Matata!

Thursday, April 14th, the Theater Department cast and crew members from the SGS Spring Musical performed live on the morning edition of WJET TV-24 news at the Erie Zoo. The animals at the Zoo were waking up as 70 young voices were warming up to perform the "The Circle of Life" one of the favorite songs from the Spring Musical.

The Spring Musical was performed at the SGS gymnasium stage April 15th-17th. Seventy of our most talented students in grades 4-8 demonstrated theatrical skills comparable to professional actors. The audience experienced a show like no other as the characters from Disney The Lion King Jr. came to life. The musical exceeded the expectations of the audience with creative hand-crafted costumes, precise theatrical makeup, wigs, life-like headpieces and props that made you believe you were in Pride Rock, the African Savanna, not the school gym! The play was a “roaring success!” Mrs. Mancuso was overjoyed and Mr. Neubauer was impressed with the performances and the true dedication of the students and the parent volunteers.

† LEADERSHIP We acknowledge SGS faculty for milestones in their educational careers.

Mrs. Lisa Hronas Preschool teacher 10 years of service

Mrs. Lisa Fuss 8th grade Science teacher 20 years of service

Mrs. Diane Lopez Physical Education 25 years of service

Mrs. Joanne Donohue, the third-grade teacher, has formally announced that she will not be returning for the 2016-2017 school year.

After 32 years of dedicated service to education, she has decided to retire.

During her tenure, Mrs. Donohue has served in various capacities as a School Board Representative, head teacher, sacrament coordinator, mentor for teachers, cooperating teacher for student teachers, and has guided teaching practicums. She has also served on BLEST (Building Level Support Team), the Saint George Day committee, and Catholic Schools’ Week Committee. Mrs. Donohue is recognized in the W ho's Who among American Teachers and Educators.

“Your teachings will forever be

treasured,

your contribution in our lives and the lives of our students can never be measured.”

† Lancer-made Memories The Saint George Lyrical Lancers participated in The Festival of Music Cedar Point on Friday, May 13th Seventeen of our most talented students and 15 parents traveled by bus transportation at 6:30 a.m.

May 13th for their destination... Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio. The Lyrical Lancers were invited to participate in an adjudication of their Spring Show “Destination Rock 'n' Roll.” The Lyrical Lancers, directed by Mrs. Mancuso the Saint George School Performing Arts Director, had the privilege to perform in front of two professional judges at the Jack Aldrich Theater at Cedar Point. Their emotions and excitement were soaring, similar to that experienced when riding a roller coaster! After their performance, the Lyrical Lancers received a positive and constructive critique with singing and stage tips to help master vocal skills and abilities to promote future adept performances. The Lyrical Lancers were awarded a beautiful plaque and a rating, overall category of “Good” for their performance. The students heads were whirling! And, if that wasn’t enough excitement, Mrs. Mancuso directed them to enjoy a beautiful and action-packed day at the park!

Saint George Day April 22nd In honor of the Patron Saint of Saint George School, “SAINT GEORGE”

Students in preschool through 8th grade, staff, teachers, and other school workers were all given a gift on behalf of the SGS PTO— a “Pope Francis Year of Mercy” Medal on “Saint George Day.” The medals were suspended from a cotton cord for all to wear.

The medals were blessed by our own Fr. Brandon and then distributed to students by their homeroom teachers.

Family and friends gathered at Saint George Parish, on Saturday, April 30th.

The 3rd grade students of Saint George School participated in the 3rd Sacrament of initiation, FIRST HOLY COMMUNION. It was a holy and special day as the children were welcomed to the table of the Lord to receive the Holy Eucharist for the first time from Monsignor Robert Brugger, Pastor. Our sincere thanks to Mrs. Joanne Donohue, Mrs. Dawn Baltes, and Mrs. MaryLou Pacoe for your strong commitment to Catholic Faith, to our Parish, our values, and our children.

Congratulations on your first communion!

We hope and pray the goodness of the Lord be upon you each day.

May the Lord bless you always!

May Peace prevail on earth to remind people to keep peace in their thoughts! May 13, 2016 the Dedication of the Peace & Mercy Poles followed morning Mass. Students, faculty, and staff gathered on Georgian Way. Deacon Bob Ball told the history of the idea of placing handcrafted peace messages on poles.

A closing prayer was offered at the dedication and a reminder to pray and envision a world at peace with God and each other. May the Peace Poles remind us to keep Peace in our thoughts and hearts!

SAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

CLASS OF 2016

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Sophia Alberico

Mercyhurst Prep

Luke Misko

Cathedral Prep

Jenna Bevan

Villa Maria Academy

Olivia Mraz

Villa Maria Academy

Miranda Bly

Mercyhurst Prep

Alexander Nola

Collegiate Academy

Felix Bussiere-Bush

Collegiate Academy

Michael Oblich

Cathedral Prep

Nicholas Cacchione

Cathedral Prep

Jack Oedekoven

Cathedral Prep

Isaiah Cameron

Mercyhurst Prep

Benjamin Ott

Cathedral Prep

Thomas Carroll

Cathedral Prep

Hannah Petrone

Mercyhurst Prep

Bridget Causgrove

Villa Maria Academy

Jillian Preston

North East High School

Andrew Chinikidiadi

Mercyhurst Prep

Michael Rahner

Cathedral Prep

Maura Conley

Mercyhurst Prep

Justin Rich

McDowell Intermediate

Margaret Constable

Villa Maria Academy

Elisabeth Rowe

Villa Maria Academy

Ashley Cyparski

Mercyhurst Prep

Gabrielle Schmidt

Villa Maria Academy

Bradley Dalton

McDowell Intermediate

Gianna Sciarrilli

Villa Maria Academy

Gabriella Ferrick

Mercyhurst Prep

Markus Shearer

Cathedral Prep

Raymond Ferritto

Cathedral Prep

Madeline Slater

Villa Maria Academy

Mariah Gammon

Collegiate Academy

Daniel Smith

McDowell Intermediate

Jakob Greenberg

Collegiate Academy

Kristaffer Snyder

Cathedral Prep

Abigail Holdsworth

Mercyhurst Prep

Mary-Claire Stark

Mercyhurst Prep

Christopher Jackman

Collegiate Academy

Nicole Talarico

Villa Maria Academy

Makiah Jenkins

Cathedral Prep

Sarah Taylor

Harborcreek High

Kaitlyn Kala

Villa Maria Academy

Emma Thompson

Villa Maria Academy

Emily Kalie

Villa Maria Academy

Alexandra Valerio

Villa Maria Academy

Madison Klinger

Villa Maria Academy

Noah Waldinger

Collegiate Academy

Jack Kociolek

Collegiate Academy

Jakub Wasielewski

Cathedral Prep

Natalie Lazan

Mercyhurst Prep

Amanda Wingenbach

Collegiate Academy

Lancelot Lombardozzi Mercyhurst Prep

Tyler Wiseman

McDowell Intermediate

Michael Lupo

Cathedral Prep

Anna Wisniewski

Villa Maria Academy

Jacob Marzka

Cathedral Prep

Samantha Zaphiris

McDowell Intermediate

SAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

STUDENTS TODAY ...

ALUMNI OF SAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

FOREVER! Congratulations to all Lancers!

Alumni of Saint George Catholic School No longer a student, but always part of our SGS family.

You are always welcome back! Stop by for a visit!

Stay in touch with SGS. Contact us anytime.

Browse our Website at www.sgs-online.org

“Like Us” and “Follow Us” on Facebook Send an e-mail to frsteele@sgs-online.org of an achievement or upcoming event we should feature in our school newsletter, facebook page, or website.

Please include details and photos.

1612 Bryant Street ● Erie, PA 16509 ● 814-864-4821 ● www.sgs-online.org

“Consider a gift to our Tuition Angel Scholarship Fund.” Your gift provides full and partial scholarships to qualifying students attending Saint George School. Each year approximately 35% of our families benefit from the Tuition Angel Scholarship Fund. The generosity and commitment of our parishioners, school families and the Erie Community is a reminder of God’s love for each of us and the importance of our school mission.

We appreciate your generosity to our Tuition Angel Scholarship Fund at any time.

To learn more about how to contribute a gift to the Tuition Angel Scholarship Fund or to determine financial assistance eligibility and begin the application process for the 2016-2017 school year: Please contact Krista Jeffreys, SGS Business/Advancement Director at 864-4821 X 273 kjeffreys@sgs-online.org

At Saint George School we are committed to providing Academic Excellence, Leadership, and Faith Development.

Saint George Catholic School is a Parish grade school that offers a 2 Year-Old “Littlest Learning Lancers” Program, 3 Year-Old Preschool, 4 Year-Old Preschool, and Kindergarten through 8th grade elementary education. We are a school and parish of distinction, and are well recognized in Erie, as a result of the long-time dedication to superior ministries by our community originators and existing members.

We were founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1944 who provided 61 years of dedicated service.

At SGS we make sure children have a sense of belonging, they feel safe, and they are respected, and most important love school. We offer exciting activities and events with scheduled field trips, Holiday parties, celebrations, sports events, and more!

We begin and end our day in prayer, and we participate in weekly children-led liturgy.

Following the example set by our Parish and Pastor, we strive to form a community that is welcoming and responsive to our parish and school families.

From 40 families registered in 1942 to more than 2000 families in the year 2015, the Parish has become one of the largest in the Diocese. At this time there are also 500 students enrolled in Saint George School. We are proud of each and every one of our students, and the students we graduate each year with the confidence and readiness skills for success in high school and beyond. We are forming the future contributors for the Erie Community!

We are accredited by Middle States. We offer before and after school childcare programs to meet the needs of our working families. We have a team of teachers that are committed to education and life-long learning. We are responsive to diverse needs and offer an array of accommodations, assistance with math and reading, speech and language remediation, and one-on-one tutoring.

We continue to accommodate the enrollment growth, facility development and enhancements of our school and parish. We are always excited to meet new families with children who might be interested in becoming part of our Saint George family!