From the desk of Chris Bolesta

Thanks to the generous support of our friends and benefactors, John F. Kennedy Catholic High School is well positioned to help our graduates succeed in the 21^st century.  Our commitment to authentic integration of technology into teaching and learning is surpassed only by our commitment to form young men and young women in the image and likeness of Jesus Christ.  As we celebrate the fortieth anniversary of our school, it is good to reflect on the events and achievements of the past year-and what a year this has been for Kennedy Catholic High School.  Consider the following “firsts” and benchmarks:

• The first capital campaign in the forty year history of the school raised over one million dollars for renovation and endowment growth.
• The commons, main corridor, cafeteria and front entrance were “brought into the 21^st century” and create a visual affirmation of our commitment to digital 21^st century learning.
• Over half of the graduating seniors won scholarships with an average scholarship package value of over $60,000.  This set a record for award value.
• Over 96% of the entering freshmen applied to Kennedy Catholic as their “first choice” high school.
• Kennedy Catholic adopted the president/principal model of governance with the new principal, Mary Hey, charged with keeping a laser focus on academics.  As president, I will focus on institutional advancement, marketing and public relations as well as the corporate functions of the organization.
• Rob Taylor, chair of the social studies department, was named a James Madison Fellow and will receive funding to pursue graduate studies in American history.
• Five new endowed scholarships were established and were awarded for the first time in May 2008.  Two more have been established in the interim. 
• The largest cash donation in the history of the school was received from alumnus Tom Rosemann with the money used for the capital campaign and also for tuition assistance.  We can’t find enough words to thank Tom and we are humbled by his generosity.
• Sister Mary Gianna, Class of 2002 professed first vows and joined several Kennedy Catholic graduates called to religious life including two recent graduates currently in the seminary.

While this is an impressive list, it is impossible to take our programs and our facilities to the next level without the support of our benefactors. Your donations are essential. We have big dreams but we can’t make them come true without your support.  Thank you for supporting us this past year and making all of this possible.  We pray for your continued support and may God bless you for your kindness.

Christine A. Bolesta, M.S.

President

New Initiative:

I am personally challenging each member of our school community including teachers, students, staff and parents to form teams and design projects to raise dollars for tuition assistance for current Kennedy Catholic students.  This initiative is called Celts Helping Celts and it was launched with two Super Bowl fundraisers.  Those projects raised almost $1000! 

CELTS HELPING CELTS IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE AT KENNEDY

Kennedy Catholic President Chris Bolesta announced an initiative named “Celts Helping Celtsk” an effort to raise money exclusively and immediately for tuition assistance to Kennedy families struggling in this difficult economic climate. 

“Every problem has a gift in it, meaning, there is something good in every bad situation and every person has the power to make a difference” Mrs. Bolesta told Kennedy students. “While we cannot repair the failing global economy, we can help each other and make a difference in our smaller world.  In addition to empowering each of us, it is my hope that this project will also build our community and make us stronger.” 

Chris Bolesta challenged Celts and Celt friends of all ages to form teams and create projects to raise tuition assistance dollars.  By the middle of February,voluntary participation had raised over $5,000, including a Super Bowl football pool, Advisory projects and a spaghetti dinner at Pack The Gym night. The following day, families receive notice that they are awarded tuition credit and are invited to “pay it forward” by participating in the project. As of May 7, the Celts Helping Celts fund raising total is over $14,000. Thirty students have received grants from Celts Helping Celts.

Anyone can participate in this project in ways great and small.  Tax deductible contributions to help our fellow Celts can be sent to the Advancement and Alumni Office. Any amount is greatly appreciated. To discuss a proposed event, contact Chris Bolesta via e-mail president@kennedycatholic.net.  Families experiencing a new economic reality are also encouraged to seek additional assistance.