the cougar connection
a message from our principal
Dear Members of the St. Mary Community,
During the summer months, I take stock of the school year that has just ended. This year I thought it would be good to share this look back with each of you. As you turn the pages, I’m sure you will come to the same reflection I hold; that our faculty, staff and parent community bring the phrase “teaching the whole person” to life for our children. This community truly builds a sense of belonging for students and their entire families, which fosters deep connections that endure long after graduation. It’s heartwarming to see our alumni return, eager to give back and reconnect with their roots.
I am excited to continue ensuring the transformative power of a St. Mary education where students are called to serve, and also find joy in service. Where they are called to learn, and to find joy in learning. All of our students are truly respected for their academic achievements here. I think it’s huge for children to feel that excelling in academics is celebrated. We celebrate diversity, we celebrate individuality, and we celebrate every child’s unique gifts and talents. Our students are blessed to be in a community that calls everyone to be their best selves; everyone gets lifted by that experience.
In my 17 years at St. Mary, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the impact of our community’s collective efforts. It’s truly inspiring to see how much we can accomplish when we come together with a shared purpose. Whether it’s through volunteer or service initiatives, fundraising campaigns, or simply lending a helping hand for a classroom project, every contribution makes a difference. I hope you enjoy this look back at our school year knowing we bring out the best in our children!
Summer prayer
May we make our homes places of relaxation, joy, love, peace and safety. May we be generous and considerate, not thinking only about ourselves, but helping others enjoy the blessings of the summertime.
Lord God, Creator of all things, guide our steps and strengthen our hearts during these months of summer and vacation days. Grant us refreshment of mind and body. May we constantly strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our loved ones and in the world around us as we enjoy the warm days of summertime. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
our new pastor
Fr. Angelo David
We are excited to welcome Fr. Angelo David as the new pastor of St. Mary School & Parish. Fr. Angelo joins us from St. Julie’s, bringing with him a rich background of pastoral experience and a strong commitment to serving our community. He succeeds Fr. Greg, who is retiring after years of dedicated service. Fr. Angelo’s warm spirit and devotion to faith will guide us as we continue to grow and thrive. We look forward to the new energy and insights he will bring to our parish, helping us to nurture and expand our spiritual journey together.
classroom blessings
At the start of this school year, Fr. Angelo, our new pastor, visited each classroom to offer a special blessing. He prayed with our students and teachers, asking for God’s grace and protection throughout the year ahead. This meaningful moment set a positive and faith-filled tone for the school year, reminding us of the importance of beginning each day with gratitude and hope. Fr. Angelo’s blessings inspire our community to live out this year’s school theme, “Be His Light,” in all that we do.
events to look forward
ELA
Our English Language Arts program is dedicated to fostering a love for reading and strengthening foundational skills across all grade levels. This year, we are proud to celebrate significant improvements in reading comprehension from 3rd through 8th grades, and a solid enhancement in phonics and foundational reading skills in K-2nd. These achievements reflect the commitment of our teachers to ensure every child develops strong literacy skills, setting them up for success in their academic journey and in life.
MATH
We prioritize building a strong foundation in mathematics through our use of the Eureka Math program, a top-rated curriculum renowned for its focus on developing deep, lasting mathematical understanding. Our approach emphasizes the progression of math concepts year over year, ensuring that students are well-prepared to tackle complex problems and engage in productive struggle. This rigorous program equips our students with the skills and confidence they need to excel in mathematics and beyond.
SCIENCE
Science at St. Mary’s is all about igniting curiosity and encouraging exploration. Our students engage in hands-on experiments and inquirybased learning that spans topics from earth sciences to biology and physics. We emphasize critical thinking and problem-solving, helping students understand the scientific method and fostering a lifelong interest in understanding the world around them. Our goal is to cultivate not only knowledgeable students but also future innovators and informed citizens.
Academics
SOCIAL STUDIES
In our social studies classes, students at St. Mary’s explore the complexities of history, geography, civics, and cultures from around the world. Our curriculum is designed to promote a deeper understanding of societal structures, historical events, and cultural diversity. We encourage critical thinking and informed discussion, helping students become thoughtful, engaged citizens with a broad perspective on global and local issues.
SPANISH
Our Spanish program introduces students to the rich tapestry of Spanish language and culture from 1st through 8th grade. This early and consistent immersion helps students build a strong vocabulary and conversational skills, as well as gain deeper cultural insights. Through engaging and immersive activities, we aim to develop confident communicators who are culturally aware and prepared for a multicultural world.
RELIGION
Religion is a dynamic and integral part of our students’ education. Our program includes inclass instruction, service-learning projects, Faith Family Group Assemblies, and school Masses led by students. We strive to cultivate compassionate individuals who are not only knowledgeable about Catholic teachings and values but are also actively involved in their local communities. By participating in a variety of religious and community activities, our students develop a strong moral compass and a lifelong commitment to service and faith.
Faith Formation MASS FAITH
FAMILY GROUPS
At St. Mary’s, faith formation is at the heart of our educational mission, guiding students on a journey of spiritual growth and community engagement. We provide a comprehensive program that includes the preparation and celebration of key Catholic Sacraments such as Reconciliation and Eucharist in 2nd grade, as well as Confirmation preparation. Our students actively participate in Service Learning through Faith Family Group monthly assemblies, classroom, and schoolwide outreach initiatives. These experiences instill a sense of compassion, responsibility, and a commitment to living out their faith in everyday actions. We celebrate our faith with monthly school Masses led by different classes, and we gather for special events like the Advent Program, VIP Prayer Service before Thanksgiving, the Passion Play before Easter, and the Crowning of Mary in May. These practices not only deepen our students’ spiritual understanding but also cultivate a strong sense of community and tradition within the St. Mary’s family.
service hours completed by JH students in the 2023-24 school year
young christian award
This award is given to a student, from each grade, who embodies our Catholic school philosophy and Schoolwide Learning Expectations (SLES) each trimester.
ptg fundraising
BOARD MEMBERS:
Laura Duganne President
Dianna McKay Community Service Outreach
Samantha Korsunsky Community Relations
Celeste Kassai
Recording/Corresponding Secretary
Nicole Posner Treasurer
Jennifer Black Secretary of Media/Enrichment
Kari Brown Hospitality
This year, our amazing Parent Teacher Group (PTG) spearheaded several successful fundraising events, bringing our school community closer together and making a significant impact. Thanks to the generous support and participation from our students, parents, and community members, we raised a remarkable $242,748.60! These funds will go a long way in enriching our students’ educational experiences and supporting school programs. Thank you for making a difference! If you are interested in getting involved and volunteering, please contact any of our PTG board members.
$242,748.60
COUNTRY FAIR
Sponsors, wristband orders, Harvest Market ticket sales, and t-shirt purchases altogether raised...
$127,324.75
We are so grateful to be able to keep this wonderful tradition alive! Thank you especially to our sponsors!
Albanese Family, Barragan Family, Bear Electric, California Blind Company, Coldwell Banker Realty, DeMaestri Family, Devcon Construction Inc., Duganne Family, Evans Family, FERMA Corporation, Intempus Realty, McCarthy Development, McKay Family, Milligan Family, Pacific Ridge Builders & Newman Family, Reveal Plastic Surgery - Steven J. Bates, MD & Benjamin M. Maser, MD, Schell Family, Jeff & Leann Sobrato, Travis Family, Zilka Family, LJ, Chase & Faith Zubillaga, Azucena Group, Foley Family, Madden Family, McCarthy Family, O&B Maintenance, Rootstock Wine Bar, Rosendin Family, Brady Family, Juliette Davis & Jerry Glembocki, Gretchen & Matthew DiNapoli, Liz DiNapoli & Josh Rose, Fry Family, Barbara & Paul Gentzkow, Gericke Family, Los Gatos Audiology & Christine Throm, Los Gatos Roofing, Nanda Family Foundation, Posner & Côté Families, Underground Republic, Bellarmine College Preparatory, Darling & Fischer, Edwards Family, Grind to Shine Baseball, JAS Interior Designs LLC, Redwood Electric Group & Mezzetti Family, Schrock Family, Andro’s Rostilj, Aragon Family, Black Family - Michael, Jennifer, Brooklyn & Elle, Cain Family, Campisi & Company, Classic Car Wash, Club of Los Gatos, Diaz Family, Farwell Family, Liz & Dave Ferrari, Ferrari Ranch Wines, Gioia Italian Art & Products, Giordano Family, Los Gatos United, Soccer Club, Marleau Family, Martig Family, Sammut Family, Sammut Investments, Service by Medallion, Sroka Family, SMM Facilities, Will & Beth Shaw, Andrea & Joe Thomas, Walsh Family, Advance Soil Technology Inc., Blach Construction, Camp Cardinale Overnight Care for Dogs, Rory, Thomas & William Campisi, Cesar Escudero, DDS - Los Gatos Dentistry, Francis & Mary Harvey, Rev. Gregory Kimm, Los Gatos Premier Medicine - Jennifer Haggerty, MD, Los Gatos Rowing | Madsen Boys - Roman, Ryder & Rexin, Matulich Family, Montanari Family, Peters Family, Presentation High School, Molly & Greg Rhine, St. Francis High School, Wallace Family, Yurko Family, Zukin Family, Amundson Family, Black Watch, Bronze Age Bat Cave, Clear Water Aquarium, Colbert Family, Dr. Rabitz Pediatric Dentistry & Los Gatos Pediatric Dentistry, Liau Family, Ed and Valerie Lozowicki, Maggetti Construction Inc., Emmett & Marianne McGrath & Family, McKeown Family, O’Meara Family, Rotten Robbie, Will & Rebecca Driscoll, Hernandez Family, Kassai Family, Dominic Renn, Von der Ahe Family, Von Ploennies Family, Wooden Horse
men’s club
service projects completed by Men’s Club this school year:
• Replaced lightbulbs in library office
• Office outside bench repainted and replaced skate deterrents
• Moved bike rack inside the gate between elementary wings
• Tightened kickstands on all doors
• Tightened sink faucet in Kindergarten
• Adjusted desk heights for various classrooms
• Built a locker for TK
• Fixed outdoor gym vents
• Tuned up TK playhouse
• Fixed lock for 2nd grade door
• Power-washed Kinder/1st lunch tables
THANK YOU FOR HOSTING THESE MEMORABLE EVENTS
Eugene Korsunsky, Bill Evans, David Mesa
AFTERNOON WITH THE ARTS
MOTHER & SON KICKBALL
CONNELLY CLASSIC
CHRISTMAS PARADE
service IMPACT REPORT
SEPTEMBER
Fall Pep Rally: Donation drive for new sports equipment
Child Advocates of Silicon Valley
Thanks to the generosity of our school community, we donated $2,000 worth of new sporting equipment, including: basketball, football, baseball, and volleyball gear; youth sports attire and cleats; and protective equipment in a range of sizes (helmets, shin guards, etc.).
NOVEMBER
7th Grade Topiary Sales
Farmworker Families Charities
Annual Advent Topiary Sales resulting in $2,038 donation to farmworker charities
OCTOBER
8th Grade Halloween Carnival: Ticket Sales
Farmworker Families Charities
Sold 127 wristbands at $15 each along with ticket sales, generated $1,905 in cash donations for migrant farmworker families.
OCT./NOV.
5th Grade Coat Drive + School & Parish Holiday Food Drive
Farmworker Families Charities
Thanksgiving Placemats
Live Oak Senior Nutrition Center
Multiple grades participated in creating handmade placemats to brighten the Thanksgiving meal service for local seniors.
Approximately $25,000 in food, gently used clothing, household goods, and Safeway gift cards. St. Marys specifically donated $1,500 in Safeway gift cards.
DECEMBER
Toy & Book Giveaway
Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services
Toys and books donated raised $1,650.
JANUARY
Donate $1 for Free Dress Pass
St Luke’s Ministry of the Unhoused
Thanks to the generosity of our school community, we donated $217 towards St. Luke’s.
FEBRUARY
Faith Family Groups Tie Blankets
Hispanic Ministry of Diocese of Monterey serving Migrant Farmworker Communities
Heritage Home of San Jose
Sacred Heart Community Services
Birthright
Students completed 60 tie blankets for the various organizations.
Joy Jars for Hospitals & Care Centers
Jessie Rees Foundation
Students, grades 3rd - 5th, completed 300 Joy Jars for the organziation.
FEB./MAR.
Diaper Drive
Hispanic Ministry of Diocese of Monterey serving Migrant Farmworker Communities
Heritage Home of San Jose
Sacred Heart Community Services
Birthright
Together we donated: 3,000 diapers, $500 in cash & gift cards, 160 packs of wipes, 45 baby formula 200 handmade comfort items (baby blankets, bibs, and hats)
Estimated value of all donations received: $4,300
MAY
“Spread the Love” Summer Hunger Food Drive
Sacred Heart Community Services
Estimated value of all donations received $850.
Spring Musical
in collaboration with Sacred Heart School
Director’s Note
Think back to the year 1992: No smartphones. No streaming. No internet. If you wanted to see the latest movie release, you had to physically venture to the local theater. For me, the go-to was the Century Theaters on Winchester. The giant 70 mm, curved screen brought Disney’s latest animated musical extravaganza, Aladdin, to life. I fell in love with the Genie, voiced by Oscar-winning actor Robin Williams.
This “Whole New World” of Agrabah introduced the world to a common street rat named Aladdin who was making a vow to be honest. Within the palace walls lived Princess Jasmine, an independent young lady intent on marrying whom she wants and not because of tradition. Their unlikely paths cross in the marketplace but is it meant to be? Perhaps Aladdin will get his wish granted after discovering a rare magic lamp. Hello, Genie!
Many thanks to the fabulous production staff! Without them and God’s grace, this show would not have been possible. The exquisite vocals are courtesy of Krissy Weston. Alina Petty provided the intricate choreography, which kept the kids twirling and tumbling. Kenny Herbas has a keen eye for curating props that add to the show’s authenticity. Furthermore, Yvonne Aragon created an array of costumes, hair, and makeup that transport you to Agrabah! Finally, special thanks to both parishes and school administrations (especially principals Monica Hernandez and Tom Pulchny) for their positive support.
Thank you for supporting live theatre!
Mr. Jeremiah Clauss
Athletics
BASKETBALL
VOLLEYBALL
FOOTBALL
Athletic Director: Kelli Mezzetti
Coaches (Boys): Adam DeMaestri, Kelli Mezzetti
Coaches (Girls): Andrew Bader, Fawn Giordano, Chris Mezzetti, Marte Walsh
Coaches (Girls): Adam DeMaestri, Chris Mezzetti, Kevin Shannon
Coaches (Girls): Fawn Giordano, Ashley Khalipa, Kelli Mezzetti
Coaches (Boys): Adam DeMaestri, Michael Avila, Michael Heath, David Madden, Cory Morgan
Coaches (Boys): Adam DeMaestri, Horacio Lleverino, Jim Obot
FIELD TRIps
Bay Aquarium (2nd)
Gatos Post Office (1st)
Los
Apple Store (1st)
Monterey
Los Gatos Library (Kinder & 3rd)
Pizza My Heart (Kinder)
Tech Museum (5th)
Youth Science Institute
(3rd)
Pumpkin Patch (1st)
Gold Rush Camp (4th)
Los Gatos Fire Station (1st)
life after st. mary’s
St. Mary School is not just a school; it’s a community that nurtures lifelong connections. Our 8th grade graduates leave with more than a strong academic foundation—they depart with a profound sense of belonging and a toolkit of values that guide them through high school, college, and beyond. The lessons of compassion, integrity, and perseverance they learn here are carried forward, helping them excel academically and grow as individuals.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the St. Mary’s experience is the way our alumni maintain their ties to our community. Whether they are visiting their old classrooms, attending our beloved Country Fair, or enrolling their own children at St. Mary, they continue to be an integral part of our family. This enduring connection is a testament to the supportive and inclusive environment that defines St. Mary School. Our alumni’s continued involvement reflects not just their personal achievements but also their unwavering commitment to the values and community that helped shape them.
100%
of our eighth graders get accepted to Catholic high schools
This year, the DSJ Catholic Schools that our students will be attending include Archbishop Mitty High School, Bellarmine College Preparatory, & St. Francis High School.
CLASS OF 2020 REUNION
We were thrilled to host the Class of 2020 reunion at St. Mary School, welcoming back familiar faces and old friends. Our alumni reconnected with their classmates and teachers, sharing stories of their high school adventures. As they now embark on their college journeys, we are proud of their accomplishments and confident that the foundation and values they received at St. Mary’s will guide them through their future endeavors.
Georgetown University
Gonzaga University
Marquette University
New York University
Purdue University
Saint Mary’s College
San Jose State University
Southern Methodist University
Texas A&M University
University of California, Berkeley
University of Mississippi
University of Tennesse
Listed above are some of the universities that our alumni will be attending in the fall.
MAY CROWNING
BLUE & GOLD DAY
