Volume 8, Issue 13
February 8, 2010
St. Jerome Emiliani, patron saint of abandoned children and orphans
St. Jerome lay chained in the dark dirty dungeon. A short time before he had been a military commander in charge of a fortress. There in the dungeon, Jerome decided to get rid of the chains that bound him. He let go of his worldly attachments and embraced God. When he finally was able to escape, he hung his metal chains in a nearby church -- in gratitude not only for being freed from physical prison but from his spiritual dungeon as well. Jerome devoted himself to service of the poor and suffering around him. He felt a special call to help the orphans who had no one to care for them. All the loved ones who would have protected them and comforted them had been taken by sickness or starvation. He would become their parent, their family.
Using his own money, he rented a house for the orphans, fed them, clothed them, and educated them. But his constant devotion to the suffering put him in danger, too, and he fell ill from the plague himself. When he recovered, he committed himself and all he owned to helping others. He founded orphanages in other cities and a hospital. He founded a congregation of priests and brothers. Although they educated other young people, their primary work was always Jerome's first love -- helping orphans. He died in 1537 at the age of 56.
Saint Jerome Emiliani, watch over all the children who are abandoned or unloved, especially the children of Haiti. Give us the courage to show them God's love through our care. Help us tolose the chainsthat keep us from living as God intended us to live. Amen.
Prayer for Haiti
God of all creation, as we weep with our family in Haiti, console us. We pray for the Haitian people, that help comes to them quickly and comfort comes to those who hurt. We pray for those lost or buried, that they are found and reunited with their loved ones. We pray for the relief workers, that they have the tools they need, the courage and the strength to respond fully. Amen.
Message from the Secretary for Education/Superintendent
Thank you for another wonderfully informative Catholic Schools Week with its celebrations of learning and programs that featured your schools as the shining stars that they are. Thank you for the greetings, flowers, and gifts you sent to us in the Office of Catholic Education. They were a welcome surprise, and we greatly appreciate the opportunity to serve you.
Every day, as we reflect on the devastation of Haiti, we are reminded of the countless blessings God has given us. And, as we approach the holy season of Lent, we are grateful for the time to reflect on God’s goodness to us in sending his only Son to save us. How awesome is our mission to form disciples of Jesus, for that is what we are called to do.
Bishops’ Scholarship for Excellence
It is time again for students to apply for the Bishops’ Scholarship for Excellence. If your school is participating in the DTA program, please remember to contact Jan Ravas at ext. 2830 or jravas@dioceseofcleveland.org to request the number of applications you need for your current 6th and 7th or 10th and 11th grade students. Most schools have not yet done so, and you will want to give your students sufficient time to write the required essay. Application deadline to your office is March 1, and then your deadline to the CEET office is March 15. This is a wonderful opportunity for your students to apply for an $800 elementary scholarship (16 awarded) and a $2,500 high school scholarship (six awarded). This year’s essay topic is: “Jesus said He came to serve. What does that mean to you in your life?” In prior years excellent essays were submitted which expressed the strong faith in these students and their appreciation of a Catholic education. Encourage your current 6 th and 7th or 10th and 11th grade students to apply.
Congratulations! 2010 Candidates for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program
Special congratulations to the leadership and faculty of Archbishop Hoban High School who have been honored to have senior Vincent C. Burns named as a candidate for the 2010 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, and the leadership and faculty of St. Ignatius High School who also have been honored to have senior Brian Mog named as a candidate for the 2010 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. This is the first step in the program with an application and other required materials that must be completed to get to the next step. We wish Vincent and Brian well. Semi-finalists and Scholars will be listed on the Web site: http://www.ed.gov/programs/psp/index.html (case sensitive). Semi-finalists will be posted in early April, and Scholars in May.
Bringing America Back to Life, A Symposium & Exhibition
Cleveland is honored to host this Symposium and Exhibition on March 8-9, 2010 at the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Cleveland. Featured speakers include Archbishop Chaput, Raymond Arroyo, Phil Burress, Dr. David Forte, Imaculee Ilibagiza, Hugh Hewitt, Stephanie Block, Star Parker, Dinesh D’Souza, Paul Wright, M.D., Andrew Trew, and Dr. Patrick Lee.
Two Movie Events, The Human Experience and The Demographic Winter will be featured, one each day at 4:30 to 6:00 pm.
The Cleveland Right to Life organization is the sponsor of this two-day symposium.
Here are the ticket details:
Two Day Pass $175 – all events except Gala Dinners
One Day Pass $100 – all events (for one day) except Gala Dinner
Gala Dinner only – $1OO per day
Lunch or Breakfast only – $55 per day
Other Options $75
Breakfast and Morning Sessions
Morning Sessions and Lunch
Lunch and Afternoon Sessions
St. Angela Merici School Receives Nutrition Program Honor
St. Angela Merici Parish School received word that it is recognized by the Ohio Department of Education as a 2009 Stellar Award Honorable Mention School for Best Nutrition Practices. This award, along with the school’s other wellness initiatives, affirms its efforts at educating the whole child.St. Angela's was the only school in the diocese that was honored for this award.
The Ohio Department of Education (ODE) has recognized 22 recipients of the 2009 Stellar Award for Best Nutrition Practices, including 20 schools or school districts, a career center and a juvenile treatment center. Nine honorable mention awards in the Stellar Award program have been given to schools and school districts.
“Schools that provide high-quality meals to their students help prepare young minds and bodies for learning,” said Deborah Delisle, superintendent of public instruction. “These schools have shown a commitment to nurturing the whole child that deserves to be recognized.”
ODE established the Stellar Awards in 2003 to recognize schools that use best practices to promote a healthy school nutrition environment. Based on written award nominations, ODE selected recipients based on their efforts to adopt the following USDA guidelines for local school wellness policies:
- The nutritional quality of meals served, including purchasing and preparation practices that reflect the National Dietary Guidelines;
- The extent to which a la carte and vending items contain healthy choices;
- Access to continuing education and training opportunities for food service staff members;
- Success in providing a pleasant eating environment for students; and
- Nutritional education aimed at students, staff, parents and the community through marketing programs and activities; for example, using alternatives to candy when rewarding children for good behavior or academic performance.
Opening Nights Festival to Celebrate Gartner Auditorium at CMA
The renovation of Gartner Auditorium sent ‘VIVA! & Gala’ performances around town to some of Cleveland’s spectacular architectural sites and concert halls. The beautifully refurbished Gartner Auditorium is now ready to return the favor and host some of the finest “around town” performing artists. Each performance will showcase the auditorium’s new acoustics and expanded stage space. “Join us for an array of musical styles, from classical, jazz, and flamenco to world music and gospel in the newly refurbished Gartner Auditorium,” said Massoud Saidpour, director of performing arts, music, and film.
The reopening of Gartner Auditorium kicks off on February 28 with international bandleader Max Raabe & Palast Orchester. Festivities start at 6:00 p.m. with cocktails and appetizers, followed by the Max Raabe concert at 7:30 p.m. (tickets required).
The celebration continues with eight weeks of FREE concerts in Gartner—Wednesdays and Fridays in March and April—running concurrently with the second half of the ‘VIVA! & Gala’ series. Spring features a mix of internationally renowned touring artists and 22 of the finest Cleveland-based performers, ensembles, and musical organizations. Topping it off is a Saturday matinee screening of Raiders of the Lost Ark. Review the entire performance schedule at: http://www.clemusart.com/events/GartnerOpeningNightsFestival.aspx.
Tickets are free for Opening Night’s Festival events (excluding the Feb. 28 Gartner Auditorium Reopening Bash). In the event of a sold-out performance, stand-by tickets will be issued at the door. Tickets are available on show days or in advance at the museum's box office, in person or by phone: 1.216.421.7350 or 1.888.CMA.0033. Buy tickets online at: http://www.clemusart.com/purchasetickets/index.aspx.
Earth Day Coalition Presents the 40 th Anniversary of Earth Day
Volunteers are needed Sunday, April 18, 2010 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Volunteer Orientation Dates:
Saturday, January 9 from 10:00 – 11:30 am
Windows on the World Room, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way
Saturday, February 20 from 10:00 – 11:30 am
Carnegie West Library, 1900 Fulton Road
Monday, March 15 from 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Carnegie West Library, 1900 Fulton Road
Saturday, April 3 from 10:00 – 11:30 am
Carnegie West Library, 1900 Fulton Road
Call Earth Day Coalition to sign up: 1.216.281.6468.
Earth Day Coalition’s Art, Poetry and Essay Contest 2010
The theme this year is Climate Change Solutions. There are three categories of entry.
Category 1: Grades K-3
Make a drawing to show how you and your family can save energy and slow the effects of climate change.
Category 2: Grades 4-6
Create a work that illustrates or explains the importance of local and organic foods for healthy bodies and a healthy planet.
Category 3: Grades 7-12
Cleveland has approximately 30,000 vacant and undeveloped properties. Show or explain your vision for transforming this empty space into a solution for a Climate Change Solution.
For contest rules about entries and more information go to: www.earthdaycoalition.org or call 1.216.281.6468.
Deadline for all entries is March 26, 2010.
Why choose Ohio Catholic Federal Credit Union as your primary financial institution?
We believe that there are many compelling reasons to join the Ohio Catholic FCU family. As a cooperative organization, you become an owner and have the opportunity to influence the direction of the credit union. You also become part of an organization that finds its roots and bases its operating principles on our Catholic faith. Their overarching goal is to provide benefits to its members, parishes, schools, and organizations of Catholic affiliation and the communities in which they have a vital role. Ohio Catholic is an organization with a social conscience that actively practices social responsibility.
As a nonprofit, Ohio Catholic FCU seeks to maximize the financial benefit to those they serve. Better rates for both deposits and loans are the cornerstone of the financial benefits provided. Fees are significantly lower or non-existent as compared to banks, finance companies, and other financial institutions. One of the products that feature both great rates and no fees is their Ohio Catholic FCU VISA credit card. Rates are as low as 8.99% and max-out at 17.99%. In addition to great rates, their credit cards have no annual fee and no balance transfer fee. To top it off, their VISA also provides reward points! Other products that provide financial value are home loans, home equity lines of credit, vehicle loans, and personal loans.
We invite you to take a look at all Ohio Catholic Federal Credit Union has to offer by visiting www.ohiocatholicfcu.com or any of their five locations. Become part of the movement!
Volunteer at Cleveland Clinic through the Junior Ambassador Program
Teens ages 15-17 with a minimum high school grade point average of 3.0 can experience something better this summer through the Junior Ambassador Program. Junior Ambassadors serve others and at the same time, make new friends, learn new skills and enjoy a fulfilling, meaningful and unforgettable summer. Their enthusiasm and generosity enrich the lives of the patients, visitors and employees of Cleveland Clinic.
Junior Ambassadors serve others in many ways:
- Greeting and escorting patients and families from all over the world
- Delivering flowers, magazines and mail to hospitalized patients
- Assisting with wheelchair transport
- Entering computerized data
- Visiting or reading to patients
- Volunteering with special projects or at special events
Requirements
- Ages 15-17
- Minimum grade point average of 3.0
- Complete an application
- Recommendation from a high school teacher or guidance counselor
- Complete a successful interview
- Be accepted into the program
- Attend orientation and other training sessions
- Commit to a regular weekly schedule and a minimum of 75 hours during the summer months.
Information needed: Name (printed legibly), Address, City/State/Zip, Telephone (with area code), High School/Grade, Cell phone(with area code), E-mail address
Send the information to:
Volunteer Services Department/ P66
Cleveland Clinic
9500 Euclid Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44197-9905
Consider Sharing This Article with Parents!
PARENTS: Boost Your Child's HQ (Homework Quotient)
by Marlene Caroselli, Ed.D
http://www.caroselli.biz
Is "homework" a source of dread, dissension, perhaps even disgust in your home? Are you wondering what prevents your children from getting homework done, done on time, and done willingly? Here are four common productivity-dragons and suggestions on how to "slay" them.
1. LACK OF ORGANIZATION
Make certain the child has a space set aside for doing homework. It should be quiet, well lit and properly equipped. At least once a week put an encouraging sign on the wall.
2. LACK OF FUN
Yes, you can make it fun. For example, tack flip chart paper to a wall, pop in once a night (at different times), and ask the child to recap via magic marker all he has done/learned so far. These review sessions reinforce the learning. Plus, they add a bit of pressure–reminding the child that you will be expecting the chart paper to be filled. Further, the sheets can be saved and used again when the child is studying for a test.
3. TELEPHONE/COMPUTER
Remove these two time-wasters from the learning environment. If you can't put the computer in a different room or if it's required for assignments, then make it understood that if it is on, it must be used only for homework purposes.
4. PETS (and other interruptions)
Make everyone in the household aware of the study time and keep it.
5. POOR TIME MANAGEMENT
Spend a minute before the homework begins discussing with your child what he or she will be doing, what are the priorities, how much time will be required, et cetera.
TIP FOR TEACHERS: Determining a Student's Reading Level
Here's a quick tool from Sue Klund, Reading Expert, to find a student's independent reading level (the level that gives you the most growth in reading scores when reading independently). It is also great to use this to assess a new student's skill level.
Google "San Diego Quick Assessment.”
This time saving tool has been around for a long time. It is a one-page quick assessment that you can use for any student. The student only has to read the lists of words to you. When he/she gets only one of the ten words wrong - on a list - that is their independent reading level. This can be used with students in elementary through high school.
FEBRUARY: Love the Savings!
Throughout the entire month of February get the online class: SELF-STUDY: Tackling Tough Text for only $10. This special offer is being published in the newsletter (found at the Web site below) only (no blog post or twitter tweets for this one), but you can certainly share it with your colleagues.
In this course you will learn how to give your students in grades 4 – 12 the tools to "tackle tough text" and to become successful readers and learners.
In teaching, there is a shift of focus that takes place at around 4th grade where literacy instruction changes from "learning to read" to "reading to learn." It is a known phenomenon that a number of students who did quite well in the primary years struggle with this new type of reading.
Students reading at their frustration level find it to be well, frustrating. Teachers in all subject areas discover that using the Reading Comprehension Checklist helps students tackle tough text. Empowering students with this unique tool proves to alleviate frustration and increase achievement. This course is based on the proven research by Sue Klund, Reading Specialist and Quality Teaching Network expert.
Go to http://K12TeacherStaffDevelopment.com now and use Coupon Code: TEXT10
to get SELF-STUDY: Tackling Tough Text for only $10.
Access the Professional Learning Board and newsletter here: http://k12teacherstaffdevelopment.com/tell/tell.php
Understanding the Intersection between Racism & Health Disparities:
The Value of Research and Collaboration
The Sisters of Charity Foundation of Cleveland is pleased to partner with Cleveland State University to present on February 19 & February 25, 2010, this dynamic two-part series. It will be hosted at Cleveland State University’s Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs and is free and open to the public. The goal of the series is to raise awareness of the issue of health disparities, discuss the social determinants of health (root causes of poor health) and foster coordination, collaboration and partnership among institutions and the community. The series will feature local and national experts in the field of health disparities.
To register or for more information, please view attachment or visit our website at
http://www.socfdncleveland.org/.
More News About the National Pesticide Forum
The planning for the National Pesticide Forum (April 9-10 at CWRU) is going great. There are more exciting speakers lined up. David Hackenberg, a beekeeper who was featured on 60 Minutes will give the unvarnished truth about Colony Collapse Disorder. Canadian representatives from the medical and legal community will share information on how they were able to get a government ban on lawn chemicals and how we can, too. Please visit the Web site at http://www.beyondpesticidesohio.org to see all the speakers and their bios.
World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life
Yesterday was the World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life. This special observance invited all in the Church to reflect on the role of women and men who are consecrated to Jesus in a special way through the profession of vows and a life dedicated to prayer and service. With thankful hearts we pray for our religious Sisters, Nuns, Brothers, Priests and Monks. We also remember those women who consecrate themselves as Virgins and those who are consecrated in Secular Institutes as single people.
May we encourage our young people to explore these vocations as they seek to serve our Lord. For more information about Consecrated Life, please contact the Diocesan Vocation Office at 1.440.943.7630, or go to www.churchvocations.com.
Women & Spirit Exhibit Coming to the Maltz Museum
Women & Spirit: Catholic Sisters in America is coming to Northern Ohio to be exhibited at the Maltz Museum in Beachwood, Ohio. The exhibit runs from May 9 through August 28, 2010. This exhibit is a natural complement to two of the Museum’s permanent collections: An American Story that tells of immigrants coming to America through the lens of the Jewish settlers of Cleveland-their accomplishments in business, medicine, education, and culture, and their trials and triumphs balancing life in a strange, new country with maintaining heritage and traditions. The Temple-Tifereth Israel Gallery displays world-class priceless objects from across continents and generations, reminding us of the continuing inspiration of faith and the interplay of cultures.
This exhibit is currently on display in Washington, DC, at a gallery of the Smithsonian. It is an honor to be the second site in Ohio for the exhibit, the first being Cincinnati. Hosting the exhibition at a Jewish museum adds a dimension distinctive to Northeast Ohio, sending a message of collaboration and shared values in the Abrahamic tradition. Like Catholic Sisters, Jewish women in the 1800’s responded to their faith calling to serve those in need, with orphanages, infirmaries, and schools. Their leadership led to familiar institutions like Bellefaire-JCB and Mt. Sinai Medical Center.
This is a great opportunity to engage students to continue to learn about prejudice, diversity and understanding among people, helping fulfill the Museum’s mission to reach out to people of all backgrounds, races, religions and cultures.
Schools should have received information on scheduling visits for students from grades six through 12. Sister Cheryl Keehner, CSA, (Sister of Charity of St. Augustine) is Assistant for Outreach to Groups who can assist you in planning and possibly financing trips for your students. Her email is chk@srsofcharity.org.
Bearing Witness™
The Anti-Defamation League’s Bearing Witness™ program, in partnership with the Archdiocese of Washington, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the National Catholic Educational Association, provides Catholic schoolteachers with the training and resources necessary to teach their students about anti-Semitism, the Holocaust, and prejudice in today’s world.
Through Bearing Witness™, participants explore the history of anti-Semitism, from biblical times to modern day, including the role of the Church during the Holocaust, recent changes in Catholic teachings on Jews and Judaism, issues of prejudice in contemporary society, and strategies for teaching students about the Holocaust and anti-Semitism. Since its inception, the program has trained over 1000 Catholic school educators across the country through this unique and exciting information.
2010 Bearing Witness™ Dates
- Atlanta: June 7-9, 2010
- San Diego June 28-30, 2010
- Washington, DC July 18-23, 2010
- Philadelphia July 26-29, 2010
- Florida September 14-16, 2010
- Los Angeles November 2010 (TBD)
- New York Specific dates TBD
For more information and to apply, contact Sophie Dornstreich at the Anti-Defamation League: 1.202.452.8310 or sdornstreich@adl.org.
Informational Dinners on Cohort Programs at BGSU
The College of Education and Human Development and the Office of External Programs are holding informational dinners regarding the Cohort programs through Bowling Green State University. The gatherings nearest us are in North Olmsted, Freemont, Warren or Norwalk. The offerings are quality graduate programs for off-campus and online cohorts for fall 2010. Graduate certificate programs are for:
Autism Certificate
Reading Endorsement
Computer Technology
Middle Childhood Education Generalist
Early Childhood Education Generalist
Master’s Programs are for:
Intervention Services
Assistive Technology
Classroom Technology
Curriculum & Teaching
Principal Cohort Leadership Academy
Superintendent Cohort Leadership Academy
RSVP to Jeannine Ware, cohort@bgsu.edu, 1.419.372.2912. When you RSVP, please provide your name, the location you plan to attend, your mailing address, phone number and email address.
Site addresses are:
Warren, Tuesday, February 9, 6-8 pm
411 Café, 4422 Youngstown Road, Across from Eastwood Mall
North Olmsted, Thursday, February 18, 6-8 pm
Radisson Inn, I-480 and Great Northern Blvd.
Norwalk, Tuesday, March 2, 6-8 pm
Berry’s Restaurant, 15 W. Main Street
Freemont, Wednesday, March 3, 6-8 pm
Clarion Inn and Conference Center, 3422 Port Clinton Road (St. Route 53 at the Ohio Turnpike)
Catholic School Leadership Institute
In order to meet the needs of beginning principals and to support and encourage experienced principals, the NCEA has developed a summer workshop which will provide ongoing formation and support and at the same time reinvigorate those who already face the daily challenges of administration. Those teachers who are considering the ministry of administration will find the program a valuable opportunity to share their ideas and learn from experienced administrators. The Institute is a 3-day workshop covering various aspects of administration. For more information, go to www.ncea.org/departments/elementary/CatholicSchoolLeadershipInstitute.asp.
NABT: Vernier Software & Technology Ecology/Environmental Teaching Award for Secondary School Teachers
The National Association of Biology Teachers Vernier Software & Technology Ecology/Environmental Teaching Award will be given to a secondary school teacher who has successfully developed and demonstrated an innovative approach in the teaching of ecology/environmental science and has carried his/her commitment to the environment into the community. Maximum award: $1,000 toward travel to the Professional Development Conference, and $500 of Vernier equipment. The recipient also receives a recognition plaque to be presented at the NABT Professional Development Conference, and a one-year complimentary NABT membership. Eligibility: secondary school teachers. Deadline: May 7, 2010. http://www.nabt.org/websites/institution/index.php?p=132#award2.
HINI Flu Virus
Students who have not yet been vaccinated against the H1N1 virus should do so, and all children under 10 years old should receive a second dose of the vaccine so as to be fully protected against the virus and prevent further outbreaks of the flu. To underscore this message, Education Secretary Arne Duncan joined Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius and U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin at a working vaccination clinic at Carlin Springs Elementary School in Arlington, Virginia. For more information, go to http://www.edgovblogs.org/duncan/2010/01/a-second-dose-of-h1n1-flu-vaccine/. The Flu Vaccine Locator, at http://www.flu.gov/, identifies where to get vaccinated by state and zip code.
Please continue to pray for our priests:
Most gracious Heavenly Father, we thank you for our faithful priests and bishops, whose spiritual fatherhood and example of fidelity, self-sacrifice, and devotion is so vital to the faith of your people. May our spiritual fathers be guided by the example of St. John Vianney. Give them valiant faith in the face of confusion and conflict, hope in time of trouble and sorrow, and steadfast love for you, for their families, and for all your people throughout the world. May the light of your Truth shine through their lives and their good works. Assist all spiritual fathers, that through your Grace they may steadily grow in holiness and in knowledge and understanding of your Truth. May they generously impart this knowledge to those who rely on them. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.