SCS Blessings Blog

Academic Scholarship Winners

2012-01-27T10:04:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Dominique S.,Erin T. and Gabrielle R. in Grade 8 who were awarded Veritus Academic Scholarships to Lacordaire Academy.

Academic Scholarship Winner

2012-01-27T09:50:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Kerry F., Grade 8 who was awarded an Academic Merit Scholarship to
Immaculate Heart Academy and was named to the St. Brigid Society for Academics at IHA

Academic Scholarship Winner

2012-01-26T09:53:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Frank C., Grade 8 who was awarded the McGuinness Academic Scholarship to St. Peter's Preparatory School.

Academic Scholarship Winner

2012-01-20T07:11:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to Lucy S., Grade 8 who was awarded a Half Academic Scholarship to Mount St. Dominic Academy.

Academic Scholarship Winner

2012-01-19T11:56:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Gabrielle R., Grade 8 who was awarded a Full Academic Scholarship to Mount Saint Dominic Academy.

SCS-My School by Amanda M. Gr. 2

2012-01-18T06:16:00.000-08:00

"SCS is a fun school because we do lots of math and grammar. I love SCS so much. I love doing math because it makes you smarter. Grammar is a fun subject too. We have a great teacher. Mrs. Viola is great to us. I love to learn new things at school because it is fun. We have music and art. Our helper is Mrs. Coleman and the principal is Miss Kerwin. We pray at church. I am receiving First Holy Communion this year. In 2012 I will work and do my best in school. I love SCS."

John Hopkins Award Winners

2012-01-17T08:47:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Ashley H. (left) and Katrina F. (center) of Teacher Kathy Nattini’s grade 5 who received awards for High Honors from the John Hopkins Center for Talented Youth for the 2011 academic year. Katrina was also recognized as “Top in the Country” for her performance on the SCAT Verbal test. Ashley and Katrina are shown above with Principal Celine Kerwin.

Preschool Science

2012-01-12T08:52:00.000-08:00

Preschool 4 student Mackenzie W. explores the world around her using a magnifying glass in Mrs. Jeanne Mulieri ‘s preschool 4 classroom.

Preschool Technology

2012-01-10T08:50:00.000-08:00

Preschool 4 teachers Mrs. Jeanne Mulieri and Mrs. Mary Giaquinto know their four year old students need a strong focus on cognitive development along with attention to their social/emotional development to be ready for kindergarten. Technology can play a key role in this preparation. With the recent addition of two Smartboards to their classrooms, SCS preschool 4 students are now given an opportunity to explore learning using technology tools in a playful, supportive environment. Shown above, preschool 4 student Olivia R. works on solving a math problem on a Smartboard in Mrs. Giaquinto’s classroom.

Advent Wreath Lighting

2011-12-12T06:59:00.000-08:00

Kindergarten students Thomas B. and Rebecca H. take part in the weekly student Advent Wreath Lighting Prayer Service held every Monday of Advent, in Siena Hall.

Giving Thanks

2011-11-23T19:00:00.000-08:00

Samantha ., dressed as a pilgrim, enjoys St. Catherine of Siena School’s annual preschool four Thanksgiving feast held on November 23 in Siena Hall. After performing on stage, students (dressed as Pilgrims and Native Americans) were served turkey, with all the trimmings, including homemade butter prepared by the students as a class project

Colonial Village

2011-11-18T19:07:00.000-08:00

Mrs. Scalo's seventh grade students at St. Catherine of Siena School presented a living Colonial Village to parents and students on November 18 in Siena Hall. Students were first required to write research papers about a specific colonial trade. They then demonstrated their trade in a mock Colonial Village, while dressed in period clothing. Shown Above, Katherine S. (left) and Elizabeth S. (right) demonstrate the trades of Shoemaker and Baker to students in St. Catherine of Siena School.

Flapjacks & Fun

2011-11-13T19:23:00.000-08:00

Hotcakes and smiles filled Siena Hall during this year’s annual Pancake Breakfast. Tons of school volunteers and parishioners filled the gym for a delicious morning breakfast. (Above), TJ Donnelly and sons Patrick D. and Brendan D. enjoy a hot breakfast with friend Patrick D. (Below) Henry Trautfetter, Rich Sanducci and John Szeluga dish up hot pancakes for the hungry crowd.

got milk?

2011-10-24T06:46:00.000-07:00

Our Preschool 4 students sure do! Above, Arianna J. tries her hand at milking a cow during a recent class trip to Green Meadows Petting Farm in Hazlet, NJ. Mrs. Mulieri’s and Mrs. Giaquinto’s students enjoyed a unique hands on learning adventure with hundreds of friendly farm animals. Some of the many petting zoo activities include milking a cow, feeding animals, tractor drawn hayrides and fall pumpkin picking.

Clothing Drive Generosity

2011-10-22T19:10:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine’s HSA recently held their annual Fall Clothing Drive in Siena Hall. A special thanks to all the families who made donations and volunteered at the event. It was a great success. Shown above, Principal Celine Kerwin helps unload a bag of clothes with students Sophia B. grade 1 (left) and Jade L. grade 2 (right).

2011 8th Grade Cathedral Tour and Organ Concert

2011-10-14T06:30:00.000-07:00

8th Grade Field Trip

2011-10-12T14:28:00.000-07:00

Our 8th Grade class took a field trip to the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, NJ today.

Back to School Social

2011-09-27T08:13:00.000-07:00

Good Morning SCS!

2011-09-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

Every school day the students of SCS enrich their public speaking skills by broadcasting morning announcements to the student body and staff. These student broadcasts include “this day in history”, saint feast day information, essays, a “jokester”, and much more. This year the students have expanded our morning broadcasts to reach beyond the school, posting them onto the web. The process is called podcasting and eighth grade students Jack C. and Sean R. make it all happen. Parents, families, and now even parishioners can take a listen to the broadcast at: http://scs.podomatic.com. (It is posted on the schoolwebsite too!) We invite all to check it out. Shown above; Katie F. (left) and Gabbie R.(right) get ready for their morning broadcast of school announcements

9/11 Remembered

2011-09-16T08:13:00.000-07:00

Eighth grade SCS student Anthony P. meets NJ Governor Chris Christie during a visit to The Empty Sky Memorial at Liberty State Park, in Jersey City on September 10. Several thousand people attended the ceremony and toured the Empty Sky Memorial, the name borrowed from Bruce Springsteen’s song about the “empty sky’’ where the World Trade Center towers stood 10 years ago.

Band - Summer 2011

2011-09-10T05:41:00.000-07:00

Student musicians participate in the Summer Opportunity band program concert, held July 20 at St. James Church, Upper Montclair. Shown above, top, Phillip M. gr.6, Kerry F. gr.8, center, Rebecca P. gr. 5, bottom, Brendan F. gr. 6 and Kerry F. gr. 8.

Welcome Back!

2011-09-07T17:08:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Siena School welcomed back students this morning for the start of the 2011-2012 school year. Our early risers, before care students are welcomed to the building by Mrs. Barbarito, director of the the extended care program.

Essay Winner

2011-05-04T08:18:00.003-07:00

Congratulations to Zachary G. of the 6th grade who placed 2^nd in the Knights of Columbus Essay Contest with his essay on What the American Flag Means to Me.

End Polio Now

2011-05-04T07:58:00.000-07:00

SCS recently helped the Rotary Club, by wearing purple and collecting donations to help end Polio now. The Rotary Club US is on a quest to raise $200 million to match $355 million in challenge grants received from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The resulting $555 million supports immunization campaigns in developing countries where polio continues to infect and paralyze children, robbing them of their futures and compounding the hardships faced by their families. As long as polio threatens even one child anywhere in the world, children everywhere remain at risk.

Easter baskets for St. Vincents

2011-05-03T07:47:00.000-07:00

Students in Mrs. Scalo's seventh grade class made bunny baskets filled with a stuffed animal and a heartfelt card and prayer for the residents of St. Vincent's nursing home. A group of students also hand delivered the baskets to residents for Easter.

Essay Winner

2011-04-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Mia D. of the 8th grade who won 2nd place in the Elks Club Essay Competition with her essay on Why I Am Proud to be an American. She was presented with a check and certificate at the February 3, 2011 Elks Club meeting.

Prayer & Pizza

2011-04-08T23:20:00.000-07:00

SCS students and their families recently participated in the annual Prayer & Pizza sponsored by the school’s Home School Association. Stations of the Cross were prayed by all and then families enjoyed a pizza dinner afterward.

Mass of the Children

2011-04-06T10:10:00.000-07:00

SCS students recently joined the Summit Chorale and Lacordaire Academy to form a children's choir performing "Mass of the Children" by John Rutter. SCS Music Teacher Mr. Albert Ganter welcomed the opportunity for SCS students to perform choral music at a more advanced and artistic level. The performance was conducted by Dr. Thomas Juneau of St. Johns University and solos were performed by Mr. Ganter.

Sports Award Dinner

2011-04-01T07:46:00.000-07:00

The Annual SCS Sports award dinner was held in March in Siena Hall. Thank you to all our parent volunteers who make this wonderful program happen!

Class of 2011 Rings

2011-03-21T11:23:00.000-07:00

Monsignor Slipe congratulates 8th grade student Michael B. on receiving his St. Catherine of Siena School ring in a recent ceremony held during mass in the church.

St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-18T08:09:00.000-07:00

SCS classes enjoyed learning about the life of St. Patrick while wearing green to school on March 17th. Students in grades K-8 were also treated to Irish Scones baked by Mrs. Jeaneen Dwyer with the help of parent volunteers. Special thanks to Katie Reilly’s Irish Soda Bread and Scone Mix in Verona who donated the scone mix.

Flapjacks for all!

2011-03-15T11:33:00.000-07:00

Mmmm pancakes! Parent Cliff Potters is all smiles as he prepares a new batch of pancake batter for St. Catherine's recent family pancake breakfast held in Siena Hall.

100 Day Celebration

2011-03-10T09:20:00.000-08:00

Mrs. Tissot's kindergarten class enjoyed a day filled with the number 100! They celebrated their one hundredth day of school with projects, snacks and books all themed with counting to the number 100. Bravo!

Do you like green eggs and ham?

2011-03-10T08:45:00.000-08:00

Students in St. Catherine's 7th grade recently celebrated Dr. Seuss's birthday with Mrs. Tissot's kindergarten class by dressing up as the Cat in the Hat and Thing One and Thing Two. They surprised the kindergarten students with a visit and read some of their favorite Dr. Seuss books to the class.

Family Fun Night 2011

2011-02-04T23:00:00.000-08:00

Family Hearts for Catholic Schools Week

2011-01-28T06:37:00.000-08:00

Kindergarten Nativity

2010-12-23T18:45:00.000-08:00

Christmas Breakfast 2011

2010-12-23T18:42:00.000-08:00

100 Christmas Stockings

2010-12-21T08:17:00.000-08:00

SCS eighth grade student Alex U. gave back to the community this Christmas by soliciting donations and stuffing 100 Christmas Stockings which are going to the Human Needs in Montclair, NJ. Alex is the Vice President of Kids Helping Kids, a subgroup formed from Families Helping Families, a non-profit organization which helps families in need in Essex County.

SCS Christmas Show 2011

2010-12-20T07:17:00.000-08:00

Band Christmas Concert 2011

2010-12-11T23:00:00.000-08:00

Fourth Grade John Hopkins Awards

2010-11-02T06:47:00.000-07:00

Fourth grade students Ashley H. and Katrina F. received high honors for the Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth, for being among the highest scoring participants in New Jersey during the 2010 academic year. Both students were invited to the awards ceremony based on an exceptional performance on a rigorous, above grade level test given to second through eighth grade talent search participants. They joined other award recipients at the recent state ceremony held at Seton Hall University on October 23rd, where they were individually honored by Johns Hopkins for their academic performance and promise.

All Saints Day

2010-11-01T18:42:00.000-07:00

Students at St. Catherine of Siena School were "living" saints during their parish mass on November 1, All Saints Day. Fr. Peter Koziolkiewicz presented each of the portrayed to the congregation.

Alumni News

2010-11-01T04:37:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Antony Kamel, class of 2010 who was named to St. Peter's Prep's newly formed Ignatian Scholars Program.

Congratulations to Alex Linkus, class of 2007 who was named as a Eucharistic Minister to the Campus Ministry Team 2010-2011 at St. Peter's Prep.

Congratulations to Matthew Oehm, class of 2008, was invited to join the National Honor Society at Seton Hall Preparatory School.

Big Brothers/Big Sisters...

2010-10-29T19:18:00.000-07:00

Students in grades 7 and 8 enjoyed spending time with their little brother and sisters in grades 1 and kindergarten during this year's Halloween Parade and in-class celebrations.

Halloween Parade

2010-10-29T19:12:00.000-07:00

Students in our preschool through grade 8 programs enjoyed a fun-filled Halloween celebration with their classmates at SCS. Parents came out to cheer on the annual Halloween Parade, led by Mrs. Reamer's grade 3 students.

HSA Trick or Trunk

2010-10-29T07:27:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Siena School Hosted it's first annual Trick or Trunk after school on October 29th. Parents decorated their car trunks and passed out candy to the students.

Animal Blessing

2010-10-08T18:54:00.000-07:00

Students honored St. Francis of Assisi during the parish Blessing of the Animals, held October 4th. Shown above, Ashley B. (grade 2) and brother Alexander B. (grade 5) are all smiles as they hold their newly blessed pet guinea pig Fluffy.

Fire Prevention

2010-10-07T19:02:00.000-07:00

The Cedar Grove Fire Department brought their rig and gear to St. Catherine of Siena School on October 7 to teach students about fire prevention and safety. Grades preschool through third attended the demonstrations given by the Cedar Grove Firemen.

Preschool Four First Day

2010-09-21T18:08:00.000-07:00

Four-year-old Lana Z. of Verona, smiles through her first day jitters as she lines up for preschool at St. Catherine of Siena School on Monday, September 20.

Preschool Three Starts The Year Off with Smiles

2010-09-20T18:32:00.000-07:00

Preschool three-year-old students follow teachers Peg Velsor and Helen Trackim down the hall to their brightly decorated classroom on September 20, for their first day of school.

All in the Family

2010-09-14T18:35:00.000-07:00

Eighth grade student Graceann D. gives little sister Gemma a big hug as she begins her day in Kindergarten. The family has four girls attending SCS this year.

Kindergarten's First Day

2010-09-13T17:56:00.000-07:00

The Kindergarten is off to a fantastic start. The children have taken a tour of the school to meet and greet all their teachers. Everyone is putting away their supplies and settling into a new routine. Mrs. Tissot and Mrs. Flynn are looking forward to an exciting year.

9/11 Service Project at St. Catherine’s

2010-09-11T18:01:00.000-07:00

Eighth grade students at St. Catherine of Siena School gathered early on Saturday, September 11, to honor the spirit of giving back on Patriot Day by participating in a service project for the school. Students painted brightly colored game markings on the playground for the younger grades to enjoy. Shown above, Deanna D. and Kelly M. begin to paint a hopscotch board on the blacktop.

Back To School

2010-09-08T18:06:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Siena School seventh grade students, from left to right, Sean R., Jack C., Michael T., Joseph S., Alex Z., and Frank C. have supplies in hand as they begin their first day back to school on Wednesday, September 8.

Technology upgrades!

2010-08-26T08:24:00.001-07:00

St. Catherine of Siena School's Technology program as seen many upgrades this summer thanks in part to a federal grant and funding from the SCS Technology Fund.

Our Technology Lab is now home to 30 new HP computers! Our wireless network has also been upgraded providing all classrooms with stronger and faster wireless capability. Each classroom will now have 3 student computers in the classroom along with a dedicated computer for the wireless Mimio Xis interactive boards mounted in each classroom. There are also 2 mobile Smartboards which can be rotated where needed. All teachers also have access to laptops for parent communication and lesson planning.

Some educational projects are also enhanced by every student in the classroom having access to a laptop at their desk...not a problem at SCS! We have 26 mobile netbook computers which can be accessed by teachers for use in their classrooms at any time.

Special thanks to all our parents and parishioners who supported this year's SCS Golf Outing. Proceeds from the event support the SCS Technology Fund along with proceeds from the SCS Spiritwear sold at the school.

School Opening Announced

2010-08-13T08:19:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Siena School will open at 8:20 a.m. and dismiss at 12:30 p.m. for students in grades one through eight on Wednesday, September 8. This same schedule will be in effect for Thursday, September 9 and Friday, Sept. 10. A Eucharistic Liturgy will be celebrated on Friday, September 10 at 11:00 a.m. in church. All are invited to join our school community in prayer for a successful school year.

Kindergarten classes will begin on Monday, September 13 at 8:20 a.m. The kindergarten will be dismissed at 11:30 a.m. for the first full week of school. Beginning the week of September 20, the kindergarten hours will be from 8:20 a.m. until 2:50 p.m.

The preschool sessions are also scheduled to begin the week of September 20. The preschool-four session meets on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

The preschool-three session a.m. meets on Tuesday and Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 11:15 a.m. The preschool-three session p.m. meets on Tuesday and Friday from 12:15 p.m. until 2:30 p.m.

Before care hours 7:30 a.m. to 8:20 am and after care hours 2:55 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. will begin September 13 for first through eighth grades and the following week for grades kindergarten through eighth.

There will be orientation sessions for kindergarten and preschool students and parents during the first week of school. Kindergarten orientation will take place on Friday, September 10, 9:00 a.m. in Siena Hall; preschool-three parents, Tuesday, September 14, 9:00 a.m. in the classroom; preschool-four parents, Wednesday, September 15, 9:00 a.m. in the classroom.

For registration and further information, call 973-239-6968.

SCS Basketball Camp

2010-08-12T08:58:00.000-07:00

Fr. Steve pays a visit to SCS Basketball camp, held in Siena Hall the first two weeks in August.

Congratulations Class of 2010!

2010-06-11T08:45:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to St. Catherine of Siena School's Class of 2010 who graduated on Friday, June 11, 2010.

Turn up the radio!

2010-05-04T10:53:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Siena’s kindergarten class pays tribute to the American flag with teachers (from left to right) Kathryn Flynn, Linda Tissot, and Star99.1FM staffer Dawn Wheeler after recording the Pledge of Allegiance for the radio station on Thursday, April 29. The radio station recorded the kindergarten class pledge as well as other students in grades 1 through 4, for the DJ Johnny Stone Show, which is being broadcast each day this week, May 3 through May 7, at 7:05am on the station. Students were reminded that when they stand together and say those powerful words of the Pledge of Allegiance, they are not only learning about patriotism, but also honoring the men and women who gave their life for the fight for freedom. The students’ recording is also available to be heard on-demand at www.star991fm.com.

Grappling Champions

2010-04-30T09:53:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Siena School students (left to right) Thomas C., Michael B., and Jeremy A. each won a gold medal in their respective weight class at the NAGA (North American Grappling Association) World Championship tournament on April 11 held in Newark, NJ.. They are all students at K-Dojo MMA in Fairfield and they have been training in submission grappling and other martial arts (Muy Thai, MMA, and kickboxing) for about 8 months.

Chess Champions

2010-04-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Siena School recently hosted its first annual Round Robin Chess Tournament for students in grades 3 through 8. The winners, from left to right were Lucy S., first place novice division, Alex U., first place advanced division, and Owen T., second place advanced division. The school also sponsors afterschool chess clinics for St. Catherine students in grades 3 and 4.

Atlantic City trip announced

2010-03-26T07:06:00.000-07:00

SCS will be sponsoring a bus trip to the Atlantic City Hilton Casino on April 24th. The event cost $30 for adults 21 yrs old & older only. The cost includes bus transportation & a $15 slots voucher. Arrive to SCS by 8:45am & the bus will leave promptly at 9am.The bus will leave the Hilton at 5:30.To reserve, contact Ferly Gobencion via e-mail only at : linmerfg@yahoo.com . For questions, contact Ferly at 973-433-0129

Alumni Basketball Game

2010-03-22T20:04:00.000-07:00

The Class of 2009 and the Class of 2010 enjoyed a fun game of basketball on March 21 along with thier coaches. The girls played first, followed by the boys team and then the coaches game. A good time was had by all!

Prayer & Pizza

2010-03-19T23:15:00.000-07:00

Families at SCS participated in the annual Prayer and Pizza on March 19, Stations of the Cross were prayed and then families enjoyed a pizza dinner afterward. Shown above Lou Tafuri and son Steven enjoy their pizza dinner.

Irish scone lesson for students

2010-03-17T18:45:00.000-07:00

The St. Patrick’s Day celebration at St. Catherine of Siena School was a little bit sweeter thanks to the donation of scones to each student from Verona’s Katie Reilly’s Irish Soda Bread and Scone Mix. Shown, left to right, students in the fourth grade class, Alexander B., Meghan D., and Brendan F. add their favorite toppings and spices to their scone dough before baking.

St. Catherine students celebrate Dr. Seuss’s Birthday!

2010-03-10T18:40:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, March 3, St. Catherine of Siena School students celebrated Dr. Seuss's birthday with a visit from some of his characters including the Cat in the Hat, Thing 1, and Thing 2. Students enjoyed hearing a story read to them and were able to ask questions afterword. Shown left to right, sixth grade students (in character) Lucy S., Gabrielle R., Erin T., and Erin H..

Celebrate our Spirit!

2010-02-04T19:56:00.000-08:00

St. Catherine of Siena students celebrated their spirit on Thursday, February 4 by participating in Phys. Ed. Events run by gym teacher Mrs. R. Shown above, second grade student Alexandra Y. cheers on fellow classmate Danny H. as their team begins the sack race in the school gym.

Bingo!

2010-02-03T19:51:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, February 3, St. Catherine of Siena School students celebrated their families during Catholic Schools Week with an afternoon of Bingo, inviting special people in their lives to share in the fun. Shown above, seventh grade student Elizabeth D. enjoys playing a round of Bingo with her grandfather.

Blessing of the Throats

2010-02-03T18:56:00.000-08:00

Monsignor Slipe blesses the throat of Christian S., grade 4 on February 3. All students in the school were also blessed. Saint Blaise's protection of those with throat troubles is asked during the blessing..

SCS Jeopardy!

2010-02-02T19:42:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, February 2, SCS celebrated "Lifelong Learning" with a school-wide game of Jeopardy. The 8th grade mc'd and ran the game with the entire school broken into 3 teams. Questions were created by teachers. Fun was had by all!

Student & Staff Read-In

2010-02-01T19:27:00.000-08:00

Surrounded by students reading, Extreme Thinking teacher Mrs. Cicchetti enjoys a quiet moment with her own book in Siena Hall during the school-wide Read-In on February 1.

Celebrate Service

2010-02-01T19:09:00.000-08:00

On Monday, February 1, of Catholic Schools Week, students at SCS dressed in class colors and worked on class service projects. Sixth grade students Erin T. and Brigitte M. work on stringing beads for rosaries that will be donated to the elderly while wearing their class color pink.

Netbooks enhance students’ learning experience

2010-01-11T10:36:00.000-08:00

Sixth grade student Kristen O. enjoys her Mythology class at St. Catherine of Siena School just a little bit more now with the addition of netbook technology in the classroom. Although the school has a fully updated computer lab and smart board technology, they have found supplementing netbooks in the classroom enhance the students’ learning experience. “We have found netbooks to be the right tool for our middle school students” says Principal Celine Kerwin, “They are easy to use and have the right mobility, battery life, and price.” St. Catherine of Siena School will be demonstrating the use of netbooks in the classroom during their Open House to be held on Sunday, January 31, 1:30 to 3:00 pm; Tuesday, February 2, and Wednesday, February 3, 9:30 to 11:00 am. For more information you can visit the school website scs-school-cedargrovenj.org or call the school office at 973-239-6968.

Geography Bee Winner

2010-01-09T10:28:00.000-08:00

Eighth grade student Steven F., shown center above, has won the St. Catherine of Siena School National Geographic Bee, held on January 8. He will attend a state-level Geographic Bee to be held in the spring. Seventh grade students Alex L. and Vincent M. placed second and third respectively. Each year thousands of schools in the United States participate in the National Geographic Bee using materials prepared by the National Geographic Society. The contest is designed to encourage teachers to include geography in their classrooms, spark student interest in the subject, and increase public awareness about geography. Schools with students in grades four through eight are eligible for this entertaining and challenging test of geographic knowledge.

Open House Announced

2010-01-05T10:32:00.000-08:00

St. Catherine of Siena School in Cedar Grove has announced an open house for preschool to eighth grade will take place on Sunday, January 31 from 1:30 to 3:00 pm, Tuesday, February 2 from 9:30 to 11:00 am, and Wednesday, February 3 from 9:30 to 11:00 am.

St. Catherine of Siena School is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The school is committed to the Roman Catholic tradition of education providing a challenging and competitive academic curriculum within a nurturing environment.

The school offers a full-day kindergarten, a teacher led before and after-care program, and a hot/cold lunch program. Smart boards, net books, technology lab, science lab, Extreme Thinking (enrichment program), Latin, Spanish, music, art, physical education and public speaking enhance the school’s core curriculum. The school is handicap accessible and has a nurse present five days a week.

The preschool program offers three year old children a morning and afternoon session, two days a week. The four year old program is offered three days a week, with a lunch program. Visitors to the open house can see the three-year-old program in session Tuesday, February 2. The four-year-old program is in session on Wednesday, February 3.

The open house will give visitors an opportunity to visit classrooms, talk with other parents and faculty about the school’s curriculum and philosophy. Registration is now open. For more information, visit scs-school-cedargrovenj.org or call the office at 973-239-6968.

Living Nativity

2009-12-15T23:00:00.000-08:00

Alexa A. stands in prayer over St. Catherine of Siena School’s living nativity re-enacted by the school’s eighth grade class. The school held its annual Christmas Show on December 15 in Siena Hall. Along with the living nativity, students from grades kindergarten through eight also performed Christmas songs, music, and scenes from Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol”.

Student earns 2nd black belt

2009-12-08T06:03:00.000-08:00

SCS 7th grade student Alexander U. passed the 2nd Dan Black Belt Testing on October 17, 2009 at Talium Headquarters located at Fairfield, NJ. Alex started taking lessons in Taekwondo at age 6 and earned his 1st Dan Black Belt in December 2006. He intends to continue his training and work towards attaining his 3rd Dan Black Belt by 2012. His martial art training helps Alex to further enhance his self esteem, built confidence, and strengthen his physical coordination and mental discipline

SCS Basketball at the Izod Center

2009-11-17T22:51:00.000-08:00

Saint Catherine of Siena students had a special opportunity to play a basketball scrimmage in the NJ Izod Center on November 17. Seventh and eighth grade players felt the up close thrill of playing on the NBA court and then were able to get NBA player autographs and enjoy the NJ Nets game that followed.

St. Catherine's Honor Veterans

2009-11-11T20:01:00.000-08:00

St. Catherine of Siena School honored veterans with a Veteran’s Day Assembly attended by students in grades kindergarten through eight on November 11. The assembly included guest speakers from the United States Army, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard. The event was hosted by the school’s eighth grade Forensics Team.

The assembly opened with a prayer service of remembrance, honoring veterans from past US Wars up to present day. The students continued with a presentation on the history of Veteran’s Day and then watched a short film supplied by the Veteran’s Administration, “Honoring All Who Served”.

The school’s guest speakers; Army Sergeant Brindle, retired Air Force Captain Jack Lamb, retired Marine Sergeant Yoon, and Coast Guard Lieutenant Daniel Twomey spoke to students about their training, experiences, and why they joined the military. The speakers each then participated in a question and answer session with the students.

Several sixth grade students gave the officers cloth bracelets symbolizing their gratitude for the speakers’ military service and recognizing them for making a positive difference in the students’ lives. The assembly closed with the singing of “God Bless America”.

Living Saints at SCS

2009-11-07T20:15:00.000-08:00

St. Catherine of Siena School students were "living" saints during their school mass on November 7 in honor of All Saints Day. Fr. Robert Suszko presented each of the portrayed saints, to the congregation, during his homily. The students portrayed St. Angela Merici, St. Dominic, St. Bernadette, St. Catherine of Siena, St. Maximillian Kolbe, and St. Gabriel, The Archangel.

Calendar Fundraiser

2009-11-05T20:06:00.000-08:00

Catherine of Siena School is accepting donations for a three-month calendar fundraiser to benefit the school. Participants have 92 chances to win a share of $6,250 in prizes during the months of January, February, and March. Calendar entries require a $10 donation and are eligible for all drawings. If interested, contact Luciana Lalande at 973-243-0022.

Halloween at SCS

2009-10-31T20:07:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Siena School students began their Halloween celebration with an afternoon parade around the school. Students then enjoyed some special treats at their Halloween Party in their classrooms. SCS eighth graders also ran the Halloween Arcade in the gym with some help from the seventh grade class. Big brothers and sisters in grades 7 and 8 enjoyed walking around with their little brothers and sisters, in grades kindergarten and first, playing games and and having fun together.

Fall clothing drive

2009-10-21T07:51:00.001-07:00

A clothing drive is set for Friday, October 23 and Saturday October 24 to benefit St. Catherine of Siena School. The clothing and other items will be sent to needy families in Eastern Europe and East Africa for reuse. Residents are asked to donate usable items in the following categories: men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, shoes, and sneakers; hats, belts, purses, blankets, curtains, bed linens, comforters, bedspreads, towels and stuffed animals. All shoes must be bagged separately. Place items in sturdy plastic bags which can be dropped off at the back door of the school gym. Enter from the Bradford Avenue driveway. Drop off times are 3 pm to 5 pm October 23, and 9 am to 12:30 pm October 24. Funds raised will benefit the Home School Association (HSA) for St. Catherine of Siena School.

SCS Students win Columbus essay contest

2009-10-14T23:23:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to St. Catherine of Siena students Kerry F., Lauren T. and Makenna B. who were winners in the Cedar Grove UNICO Christopher Columbus essay contest.

Month of the Rosary

2009-10-09T11:22:00.000-07:00

Students at St. Catherine of Siena School gather in Siena Hall, every Friday, during the month of October to pray a “living Rosary”. In the Roman Catholic Church the month of October has been specially selected as the "Month of the Rosary," and the feast of the Holy Rosary is now celebrated on the 7th of this month.

Stop, drop and roll

2009-10-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

The Cedar Grove Fire Department brought their rig and gear to St. Catherine of Siena School on October 6 to teach students about fire prevention and safety. Grades preschool through third attended the demonstrations given by Cedar Grove firemen Dan Donovan, Steve Young, and Brendan Murphy. Shown above, Fireman Brendan Murphy shows students how to stop, drop and roll in the event of a fire while Fireman Dan Donovan explains the technique.

FBI visits SCS

2009-10-07T20:18:00.000-07:00

Special Agent James Meskill Jr. from the FBI brought bulletproof vests, handcuffs, and a vast knowledge of criminal law and procedure to share with the students in Saint Catherine of Siena’s “Loving the Law: Civics, Character and Leadership” class on October 7. The middle school elective is taught by Professor Paula Franzese, a law professor at Seton Hall University School of Law and chairwoman of the state Ethics Commission. Shown, sixth grade student Frank C. enjoys looking at a 1954 edition of “The F.B.I.” by Quentin Reynolds.

Respect, responsibility, and caring

2009-10-07T20:14:00.000-07:00

Students were treated to the magic and message of Jim Vagias, on October 7 in Siena Hall, who spoke about the importance of respect, responsibility, and caring in the students’ lives. The assembly kicked off St. Catherine of Siena School’s “Positive Action” program, which will continue bringing this message to students throughout the school year. Shown, sixth grade student Delia S. respectfully waits to reveal what is under her cylinder as prompted by magician Jim Vagias.

Blessing of the animals

2009-10-04T23:45:00.000-07:00

The Nattini and Coleman families enjoy a moment with their pets during St. Catherine of Siena's annual blessing of the animals held October 4. The blessing of the animals is celebrated each year in conjunction with the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals.

Sharing Polish heritage

2009-10-01T10:10:00.000-07:00

Father Peter Koziolkiewicz spends a morning with St. Catherine’s second grade class sharing the traditions and culture of his native Poland. Father Peter entered the seminary in Poland, completed his seminary education in the United States, and was ordained in the Archdiocese of Newark. He has been at St. Catherine of Siena Church since June 2009.

Preschool jitters

2009-09-21T11:01:00.000-07:00

Four-year-old Mark S. of Verona receives a comforting hug from mom Lynn as he prepares to attend his first day of preschool at St. Catherine of Siena School on Monday, September 21.

Service to others

2009-09-11T11:54:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Siena School eighth grade students (from left to right) Thomas C., Mairead C., and Julia R. collect over $325 on behalf of the student body to support the GI Go Fund on September 11. The students of St. Catherine’s resolved to follow President Obama’s declaration that September 11 be a National Day of Service for all Americans as a way of remembering our nation’s heroes. The proceeds collected went to the GI Go Fund, a non-profit fund whose purpose is to help those in the military returning from operation Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom to assimilate back into society. A portion of the fund also goes to homeless veterans.

Back to school

2009-09-09T08:48:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Siena School fifth grade students Megan C. and Katherine S. are all smiles as they begin their first day back to school on Wednesday, September 9.

School Opening

2009-08-15T11:32:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Siena School will open at 8:20 a.m. and dismiss at 12:30 p.m. for students in grades one through eight on Wednesday, September 9. This same schedule will be in effect for Thursday, September 10 and Friday, Sept. 11. A Eucharistic Liturgy will be celebrated on Friday, September 11 at 11:00 a.m. in church. All are invited to join our school community in prayer for a successful school year.

Kindergarten classes will begin on Monday, September 14 at 8:20 a.m. The kindergarten will be dismissed at 11:30 a.m. for the first full week of school. Beginning the week of September 21, the kindergarten hours will be from 8:20 a.m. until 2:50 p.m.

The preschool sessions are also scheduled to begin the week of September 21. The preschool-four session meets on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

The preschool-three session a.m. meets on Tuesday and Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 11:15 a.m. The preschool-three session p.m. meets on Tuesday and Friday from 12:15 p.m. until 2:30 p.m.

Before care hours 7:30 a.m. to 8:20 am and after care hours 2:55 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. will begin September 14 for first through eighth grades and the following week for grades kindergarten through eighth.

There will be orientation sessions for kindergarten and preschool students and parents during the first week of school. Kindergarten orientation will take place on Friday, September 11, 9:00 a.m. in Siena Hall; preschool-three parents, Tuesday, September 15, 9:00 a.m. in the classroom; preschool-four parents, Wednesday, September 16, 9:00 a.m. in the classroom.

For registration and further information, call 973-239-6968.

Father Robert Day

2009-06-16T13:18:00.000-07:00

Father Robert Gelinas enjoys receiving a SCS memory quilt handmade by students in the quilting elective and designed by quilting elective teacher Beth Hogan. The school celebrated Father's service to SCS with tributary presentations from the students in grades 1-8.

Kindergarten Graduation

2009-06-08T12:59:00.000-07:00

Saint Catherine of Siena School heldthe 2009 Kindergarten Graduation on June 8, 2009 in Siena Hall. Shown left, Michael M. smiles for his parents after receiving his diploma from Principal Celine Kerwin and Pastor Monsignor Robert Slipe.

St. Catherine of Siena class of 2009

2009-06-07T11:41:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Siena School held its 8^th grade graduation ceremony on Sunday, June 7, 2009. The class of 2009; (first row, from left) Principal Celine Kerwin, Alyssa Freitas, Danielle Barckett, Bridget Velez, Brian McGowan, Kristen Ranges, Melissa Glenbowski, Carly Daniels, teacher Carmelyn Barbarito, (second row, from left) James Reilly, Caitlin Campbell, Patrick Flynn, Gregory Seifert, Kerrianne Masucci, Nicholas Duran, (third row, from left) Vincent Ciccone, Kristian James, Matthew Szeluga, Maggie Coleman, Mary Fahey, Morgan Boutmy, (back row, from left) Rev. Robert Gelinas, Patrick Cicchetti, Tyler Otterbein, Alex Campbell, Pastor Rev. Msgr. Robert Slipe, Tyler Callaghan, Kevin Labagnara, Kenny Chiemelu, Rev. Robert Suszko.

Respect, responsibility, and carin

2009-06-07T07:54:00.000-07:00

Rockinghorse Ranch

2009-06-03T13:38:00.000-07:00

Saint Catherine of Siena School's class of 2009 enjoys a fun outdoor day at Rockinghorse Ranch on June 3, 2009. The class trip included swimming, boating and horseback riding.