1. education
2. school

Education for Life
McDonell Area Catholic Schools are committed to the
formation of community, academic excellence and the
spiritual and physical well-being of each student
in the Spirit of Jesus Christ.
October 2014 School Newsletter
Central Office Hours: Monday - Friday 7 am to 4 pm Thursday - 6 pm  School Offices open 7:30 am to 4:00 pm
715.723.0538  www.macs.k12.wi.us Look for MACS on Facebook & Twitter
St. Charles Childcare
St. Charles Borromeo Primary
Holy Ghost Elementary
Notre Dame Middle School
McDonell Central Catholic High School
723.2161
723.5827
723.6478
723.4777
723.9126
MACS welcomes new faculty and support staff
Dear Families and Staff,
We are very happy to welcome a few old faces and some
new faces to our staff this year. Please take some time to
introduce yourself!
She also has a minor in Social Studies. Libby commented,
“I like how close-knit the MACS community is. There is
always somebody willing to help me out.”
Early Childhood Center: Jamie Heldt, BB4C Lead Teacher Jamie is originally from Mosinee, WI. She went on to UWPlatteville where she received her Bachelor’s Degree. Jamie
stated, “I have been greatly impressed with the friendliness of
all the staff and partnering families!”
Lisa Neff, Food Service Head Cook - Lisa grew up in the
Altoona-Fall Creek area. Her husband is a McDonell alum
and her daughter is a student at MACS. “I am so excited
to be a part of MACS. I’ve known Deacon Dan (Food
Service Supervisor) for several years and it is a pleasure
to work with him and Sally, to make the students’ lunch
something they look forward to,” said Lisa.
St. Charles Borromeo Primary: Tammy Brown, Food
Service Head Cook - Tammy is from Chippewa Falls and when
asked what she liked about MACS so far she responded, “I am
happy to be working in a kitchen with the focus on whole food
cooking.”
Keri Brugge, 2nd Grade - Keri attended the University of
Central Florida and received a degree in Elementary Education
after graduating from Lynn, Massachusetts. Keri remarked, “I
love working for the MACS system. I myself went through 12
years of Catholic School. Having the opportunity to work in a
Catholic School like MACS really does feel like home!”
Mary Travis, Spanish Grades 3-8 - Mary grew up in
continued on page 2
October EVENTS
For full listing, check on website for school’s
monthly events calendars.
Roxie Swoboda, Assistant Cook - Roxie is an alum of
McDonell, class of 1983. She and her husband Tim live in the
area and have five children, three who have graduated from
McDonell. Roxie says, “I love working at St. Charles! Everyone
has made me feel very welcomed. I feel very blessed!”
Holy Ghost Elementary: Erica Abramowicz, 4th grade Erica graduated from UW-Superior with a Bachelors in
Education, specifically in the subject of Science. She lives in the
Gilman-Thorp area. “So far it has been nice,” she said.
“Everyone is very welcoming and helpful.”
Rebecca Collins, 5th grade - Rebecca received a Bachelor’s
degree from UW-River Falls in Agriculture, Food and
Environmental Science in 2002. In 2003 she graduated from
the University of Texas at Arlington with a Master’s in Education
for Curriculum and Instruction in Science. She has spent the
last six years teaching in Texas. Teaching at MACS has
brought her closer to her hometown of Zumbro Falls, MN.
Rebecca commented, “I have really come to appreciate the
family and community support that this district has shown.”
Libby Kreider, 4th Grade - Libby’s early years were spent in
Appleton, WI. She graduated from UW-Eau Claire in December
of 2013 with a degree in Middle Childhood/Early Adolescents.
Celebrating 130 years 1882-2012
Yvonne Peterson, Interoffice Mail and Food Courier Yvonne is from Chippewa Falls and has grandchildren who
attend MACS. When asked what she thought about
working at MACS, Yvonne replied, “Love it! People are so
friendly and very nice.”
1
Oct 1
No morning buses - Mass Day (Parents welcome)
McD-ND Parent-Teacher Conferences
Benefit Dinner for Cathy Greenseth @ McD 4:30-6:30
Oct 2
ND Parent-Teacher Scheduled Conferences
Oct 4
Booster Club Silent/Live Auction @ McDonell
Drive One 4UR School Fundraiser - Chi-Hi Parking Lot
Oct 8
Masses SC 8:30, ND-MCD 10:30, HG 12:10
NDAA Monthly Meeting – 6 p.m. in library
McD Athletic Boosters Monthly Meeting
– 7 p.m. @ McD library
Oct 10
McD Homecoming game at Doris Field
Oct 13
MACS Music Boosters Parent Monthly Meeting
– 6:30 p.m. @ McD
Oct 15
Masses SC 8:30, ND-MCD 10:30, HG 12:10
Chippewa Falls Deanery Teen Life Night from 6:308:30 p.m. @ McD.
Oct 20
McD Fall Band & Choir Concert @ 7 p.m.
Baby Shower for Mary week (all schools)
Oct 31
End of quarter
Family Newsletter October 2014
MACS Central Office
www.macs.k12.wi.us
continued from page 1
Merrill, WI and went on to UW-Stevens Point where she
received an Education Degree in Spanish. She said, “I am very
impressed with the MACS staff community and I feel very
welcomed and supported with the start of the school year.”
$crip Fundraising News
Notre Dame Middle School: Ron Keefer, Science - Ron
worked at MACS for several years in the high school Science
Department teaching Biology, Earth Sciences, AP Anatomy and
more before retiring just a few years ago. We are so excited to
have you back!
Kari Stepp, Health and Physical Education Teacher for 6th8th grades at Notre Dame and JV Volleyball Coach at
McDonell - McDonell Alum, ‘00, Kari graduated from UW-Eau
Claire in 2004, with a BS in Kinesiology and Education. A
Health Education degree from UW-Stout in 2007. “My dream
has always been to come back and teach and coach at
McDonell. I am beyond excited to be back home, in this
incredible Catholic community where the children are wonderful,
the parents are fantastic, and my fellow teachers and
administrators are very supporting of what I do! There is
absolutely no place like home,” stated Kari.
McDonell Central Catholic High School Donna Keck, Food
Service Assistant – Donna grew up in Cadott. She attended
DeVry University and received a Bachelors Degree in
Electronics Engineering Technology. Donna stated, “I enjoy
seeing the students and everyone has been so friendly.”
James Richie, Spanish - James is originally from Cumberland,
WI. After graduation he attended UW-Eau Claire where he
received a Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish Liberal Arts. James
said, “I am very excited to be at such a great community.”
Lou Tozer, Administrative Assistant - Many of you already
know Lou who helped Notre Dame Middle School as an
assistant while Tami Pieper was out on maternity leave last
spring. Welcome back!
web link: www.macs.k12.wi.us/scrip.html
Several months ago, the Scrip gift card
program was extended so that
parishioners can give their Scrip credit to our area
Catholic parishes. In this short time, sales at some of
the parishes have doubled.
This spreads the benefits of the Scrip gift card
program to help McDonell Area Catholic Schools,
current MACS families, future MACS families, our
supporting area Catholic parishes, and our community
businesses. The McDonell Area Catholic Schools Scrip
Gift Card Program is a win, win program. How can this
program get better? Everyone can support the
McDonell Area Catholic School Scrip gift card program!
You will find it very easy to do and you will see that it
makes budgeting your spending much easier. Call me
with questions.
Mrs. Barb Gale
Advancement News
Jenny Schafer, Director of Advancement
715.723.0538 ext. 3306 *
j.schafer@macs.k12.wi.us
Time to think cars
and spaghetti!
Amy Vogt, Vocal Music Teacher - “People have been very
friendly! I appreciate the support as I get going in a new room,
new environment, and with new acquaintances.”
Education Technology & Media
Val Knobloch, Director of Technology v.knobloch@macs.k12.wi.us
Fall 2014 has arrived as have the initiatives we mentioned
in our June update. Notre Dame and McDonell students
welcomed new technology in both our 1:1 ChromeBook pilot
and Project Lead the Way (PLTW) initiative this semester. In
the next few newsletters, we will go into depth with each of
the projects. The first set of ChromeBooks arrived in early
September and 7th graders have been using them in class
and at home. The 6th graders will receive their machines in
October. Based on teacher recommendations, our strategic
goals and research we implemented this pilot 1:1 over the
summer and teacher reports have been good so far this Fall.
With this initiative, the ongoing iPad initiative and Project
Lead the Way, we have tripled the number of computers and
portable devices in our system. And Bring Your Own Device
(BYOD) continues to be popular. Next month, we will report
on PLTW and infrastructure improvements.
McDonell Area Catholic Schools
Barb Gale, Administrative Assistant and
Scrip Fundraising Coordinator
715.723.0538 x3301
b.gale@macs.k12.wi.us.
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Mrs. Jenny Schafer
Please join us for our 4th annual
Drive 4UR School, in partnership with
Bloomer Ford. Stop by the Chi Hi
parking lot on Saturday, October 4th and test drive a
Ford. For every test drive we will receive $25. They will
donate up to $6000!! Come on by – test drive a vehicle
and then stay to watch the MACKS football game or
take the test drive after the game. Then, join us that
evening at McDonell HS for the Spirit of the Macks
auction event for our athletic programs. A fun evening
with lots of great items to bid on – maybe get a head
start on your Christmas shopping.
Make Saturday, October 4th MACKS DAY!
Planning is well underway for the 7th Annual
Spaghetti Spectacular set for Sunday, November 9th.
This all school fundraiser is a great community building
event. We need ALL of our parents to help make this
event a success. Remember, the deadline for
volunteering is October 17th. Any open spots after the
17th will be assigned. Use VolunteerSpot in the parent
page. Thank you for supporting our schools.
See you on October 4th and November 9th!
Family Newsletter October 2014
MACS Organizations
www.macs.k12.wi.us
MACS Home and School Association
Notre Dame Athletic Association
email: macshomeschool@macs.k12.wi.us
web link: www.macs.k12.wi.us/hns.html
email: ndaaboosters@macs.k12.wi.us
web link: www.macs.k12.wi.us/ndaa.html
Welcome Fall! The HandS Committee has hit the
ground running this year planning events for the school
year. We hope you all were able to join us for the Family
Game Night.
Next up is the Harvest Hoedown at St. Charles on
Friday, October 24th. This is always a fun event for the
children, teachers and volunteers. Volunteers are
needed! If you are interested in volunteering, please
register on VolunteerSpot for this terrific event.
We invite you to join us at our next parent meeting on
November 12th at 6:00 p.m. at St. Charles. All parents
are welcome and encouraged to attend. Meeting
attendance counts towards your required volunteer
hours. If you have any event/activities ideas, we would
love to hear and discuss them!
Enjoy the fall colors and weather and we appreciate
all that you do for your child’s education!
The NDAA candy bar sale is in full
swing! Look for student athletes selling
World’s Finest Chocolate and help
support middle school athletics! If you
do not have a child in middle school
athletics but are willing to sell candy
bars, please contact Tami Pieper,
Notre Dame Administrative Assistant,
and she can get you a box.
Mrs. Michele Kressin
The NDAA meets the second
NDAA President
Wednesday of the month at 6:00 p.m.
in the McDonell library. If you have questions, comments
or concerns, please feel free to come to the meeting!
The concession stand is up and running during home
games at Holy Ghost. There is a new sign with
instructions on who to call and how to open and close
the concession stand posted on the wall by the cheese
machine. If you are working concessions, please read
this sign for important information.
McDonell Athletic Boosters
email: mcdathboosters@macs.k12.wi.us
web link: www.macs.k12.wi.us/athboost.html
MACS Music Boosters
Monthly meetings are held on the second
Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. at McDonell.
Parents, this is a great way to find out firsthand what’s
happening with the McDonell Athletic Program. All are
welcome and encouraged to attend.
email: macsmusic@macs.k12.wi.us
web link: www.macs.k12.wi.us/musboost.html
Music Boosters have been busy,
busy, busy! We've been working at the
football and volleyball concessions.
At the beginning of September we had Mr. Robert Parkhurst
Booster President
already made over $1700!
And where is that money going? The
high school music students will be going to Nashville
this year. They will be performing and taking in clinics.
The students will pay less because of the income from
concessions. We have A LOT of opportunities for
volunteers – concessions, the Country Craft Expo (Nov.
22nd), and MVP (Gold Cards) coming in mid-November.
Go the VolunteerSpot to help out and have some
fun while you're at it! We need your help!
Mr. Sean Hanson welcomes all parents and alumni
to join the Pep Band playing at football, volleyball and
basketball games. Contact Mr. Hanson at McDonell or
at s.hanson@macs.k12.wi.us for more details.
Please join us!
A day without music is like a day without sunshine.
McDonell Area Catholic Schools
Upcoming Events:
October 4, 2014 – “Spirit of the Macks” Silent Auction
(See flyer in newsletter)
January 26, 2015 – Brunch held at McDonell
March 27 & 28 – Alumni Tournament
April – Spring Fest
May – Golf Outing
Football Mania Fundraiser: Thank you to everyone
who sold and purchased Football Mania
tickets. Tickets may continue to be sold
(they are just not eligible for previous
weeks). Stubs should be turned in as
soon as possible so they can be
activated. Good luck and best wishes
for lots of winning tickets! Be sure to
check the website for the weekly winners.
We are in need of a Concessions Chairperson for
the Alumni Tournament and the Golf Outing. Please
come to a meeting and/or contact a board member if
you would be willing to oversee either of these activities.
3
Family Newsletter October 2014
Notre Dame Middle School | McDonell Central Catholic High School
EDUCATION FAIR SEPTEMBER 30 - OCTOBER 1
UW-EAU CLAIRE
GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT NEWS
Jerry Van Dyke, Guidance Counselor
j.vandyke@macs.k12.wi.us
715.723.9126 ext. 3317
A Wisconsin Education Fair at the Eau Claire Indoor
Sports Center on the campus of UW-Eau Claire, provides
MACS students and parents an opportunity to meet with
representatives from more than 110 colleges, technical
colleges, universities, trade schools and the armed forces.
The fair will be open on Tuesday, Sept. 30th, from 6:30 to
8:30 p.m. and on Wednesday, Oct. 1st from 9:00 to 11:00
a.m. We encourage you to pre-register your student online
for the use of electronic scanners before the fair.
Registration is located at:www.gotocollegefairs.com. More
information can be found at www.wefs.org. Also contact
Mr. Van Dyke for more information.
SENIOR COLLEGE APPLICATIONS
Colleges and Universities begin accepting
applications in September. There are
Mr. Jerry Van Dyke
many advantages to applying early, most
notably, the earlier you apply the sooner you will receive
your acceptance letter and be able to move on to other
senior year tasks. Also, later in the fall the admissions
offices develop a backlog of applications, so what might be
a two week wait in September grows into a four to six week
wait in October. APPLY NOW!! Most schools strongly
prefer that you use their online applications. You can find
the links to these apps at the college website. The site for
applications for all the University of Wisconsin schools is
https://apply.wisconsin.edu. Some private colleges have
free applications, but the cost to apply to most schools
ranges from $25 to $50. After you submit your application, I
will mail your high school transcript to the college. The
transcript includes all grades and credits earned in grades
9–11, as well as your ACT score. Transcripts can be sent
in person or via email.
FINANCIAL AID ALL FAMILIES should complete the
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order
to determine eligibility for many scholarships, grants, and
student loans. The FAFSA should be submitted as soon as
possible after January 1, 2015. This is an online application
at www.fafsa.ed.gov. (Do not go to fafsa.com, as that
site will charge you at least $80 for what should be a free
application.) If you are not familiar with the FAFSA process,
go to www.fafsa.ed.gov prior to January to find out what
information you will need to submit.
SENIOR PLANNING MEETINGS All seniors and their
ACT If you plan to take the ACT on the October 25th test
parents should schedule an appointment to meet with Mr.
Van Dyke to discuss post-high school goals and plans and
to get help with college applications, financial aid, etc. To set
up an appointment, call or email Mr. Van Dyke.
date, you may still register by October 10th. If you are
taking the ACT in October, you can and should apply to
colleges now. Doing so creates a file on you at the school,
and when they receive your October scores they will be able
to more quickly complete the processing of your application.
Registration for the December 13th ACT is due on
November 17th.
CAMPUS MINISTRY NEWS
Deacon Tom Kinnick, Campus Ministry
deacon.kinnick@macs.k12.wi.us
715.723.9126 ext. 2207
SCHOLARSHIPS Throughout the school year, I will create
lists of scholarships that come into my office. These lists
include information on scholarship amounts, criteria for
application, and due dates. These lists will be printed and
posted in the guidance office and throughout school, a copy
of each list will be given to each senior, and the list is posted
on the McDonell guidance website. By keeping up with these
scholarship announcements and paying attention to
deadlines, you will have opportunities to apply for many
scholarships. Early in the school year most of the available
scholarships are national competitions. Many of the local
scholarships which McDonell students earn become
available later in the first semester. All students should also
perform an individualized scholarship search through
services such as Fastweb (www.fastweb.com). Fastweb
asks some questions about you, and using the data you
provide, they inform you of scholarships for which you are
qualified. All students should contact the financial aid office
at their college to find out about scholarships available to
students at each school.
McDonell Area Catholic Schools
www.macs.k12.wi.us
TEEN LIFE NIGHT OCTOBER 15
Traditional Division band from 6:30 7:15 pm followed by guest speaker Dave
Deacon Tom Kinnick
Rinaldi from 7:15 - 8:15 pm. Food and
fellowship from 8:15 - 8:30 pm. Bring a snack to share.
JUNIOR and SENIOR RETREAT OCTOBER 16
Juniors and seniors will participate in a retreat at Notre
Dame Parish from 8:30 am — 2:30 pm.
Reminder: students need to provide their own
transportation. If transportation is needed from school,
please contact Mrs. Tozer in the school office.
Pro Life March is in Washington, D.C. January
20th—24th Students in grades 8—12 are eligible to
participate. Students can raise funds by working at two
volleyball tournaments. Please see me if you are
interested in learning more.
4
Family Newsletter October 2014
McDonell Central Catholic High School
www.macs.k12.wi.us
NOTRE DAME MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS
SENIOR NEWS
Carolyn Peloquin, Senior Trip Coordinator
c.peloquin@macs.k12.wi.us
715.723.9126 ext. 1102
VETERAN PROJECT Eighth grade students
will soon be looking for veterans to interview
for their veteran project. Do you know any?
From the interview they will be writing their
phase biography and having those published
in the newspaper. They will also be sending thank you
notes and copies of the final paper to their veteran.
MC DONELL WREATH
SALE BEGINS
The wreath sale for the
Mrs. Carolyn Peloquin
seniors who signed up to
go on the senior class trip runs from
September 24th through October 14th. The wreaths
will be delivered on Tuesday, November 18th and
Wednesday, November 19th. Seniors must be prepared
to pick them up after school on both days. The second
trip payment of $400 is due on December 10th. The profit
from the wreaths will be deducted from that payment. The
wreath money is due to Mrs. Peloquin by December 2nd.
Anyone interested in purchasing a Christmas wreath
should contact a senior or call the school office to
order:
715-723-9126
24” wreath
$15.00
Door Swags $12.00
36” wreath
$25.00
Crosses
$15.00
Orders must be in by October 14th.
THE WORLD’S FINEST
CHOCOLATE SALE HAS BEGUN
It is time for our annual World’s
Finest Chocolate Sale! This year the
Holy Ghost and Notre Dame
Athletes and their families will be
selling $1.00 WFC Candy Bars. The profits are the
primary source of money for the athletic programs and
are used to help offset the energy costs for the schools.
The money is used for new equipment, coaches' fees,
referee fees, etc. In addition, the money is used for major
projects in the system. Kick-off day was Sept. 12th
and turn in money candy is October 10th.
INTRODUCING THE 2014-2015
NOTRE DAME MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT
COUNCIL HOMEROOM REPRESENTATIVES
SENIOR PORTRAITS DUE NOVEMBER 1st
A request from the yearbook staff: One of the
highlights of any yearbook is looking at the
senior pictures. This year the yearbook will
need, in full color, head and shoulder pose
(see example of Brother at right). The pictures
Sample Pose
will be submitted in a digital format to the
publisher for better quality printing. Most
companies will turn in one pose for free, so ask them for a
digital format. The photographer may send it directly to
Mrs. Wacker. Please submit pictures in a .jpeg format
by November 1st. Photographs should be emailed to
Mrs. Wacker at j.wacker@macs.k12.wi.us
6th Grade
Hannah
Vallejos Duque
7th Grade
Anthony Roach
Brielle Simonsen
Eion Kressin
Olivia Mlsna
8th Grade
Marilyn Newton
Oliver Shakal
Adam Waldusky
Student Council President is Adam Waldusky
We will be having a change drive for Peace month. So
save your coins!
HALLOWEEN NIGHT—Optimist International Chippewa
Seniors must also supply an extra hard copy senior
photo to be used for the McDonell Class of 2015 collage.
Please use the same photo as above. Photo must be
wallet-size, head and shoulder pose and is due no later
than Friday, November 1st.
Falls Club is hosting a safe, free Halloween night for all
area students in grades 6 to 8. Party/dance is being held
at the Chippewa Falls Middle School from 6:30 - 8:30
p.m. on October 31st. Dzired Sound DJ, best costume
and more contests and prizes throughout the night.
OTHER SCHOOL NEWS
THE EVENTS CALENDAR and LUNCH MENU
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES Parent-Teacher
is available on our website at: www.macs.k12.wi.us
Conferences are scheduled for Wednesday, October 1st
from 3:30 – 6:00 p.m. McDonell parents can come and
choose the teachers you would like to see. Notre Dame
parents and students will have scheduled times on
Wednesday, October 1st or Thursday, October 2nd.
PICTURE RETAKES - October 14th Anyone who
missed picture day or wishes to have their picture retaken should plan accordingly for October 14 and sign
up in the office. For retakes, old pictures need to be
returned that day before new photo is taken.
McDonell Area Catholic Schools
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Family Newsletter October 2014
Notre Dame Middle School
www.macs.k12.wi.us
MUSIC DEPARTMENT NEWS
Amy Vogt, Choral Director
a.vogt@macs.k12.wi.us
715.723.9126 ext. 2216
Picture
not
available
Mrs. Amy Vogt
Mr. Sean Hanson
Sean Hanson, Band Director
s.hanson@macs.k12.wi.us
715.723.9126 ext. 1114
CONCERT NEWS Come one, come all! The McDonell
Concert Choir and Bands will perform on Monday,
October 20th at 7:00 p.m. The concert will be held in the
McDonell auditorium. The choir has prepared a variety of
repertoire which reflect on our dreams and the
experiences that have fed those dreams. The jazz bands
have been working hard to prepare music for competition,
concert, and Mass. The concert band is off to an excellent
start as well and have participated in Oktoberfest and
played for several pep events!
The McDonell music department exists to foster a lifelong love of music in each student. Through performance,
we hope to develop musicians that are musically literate,
culturally sensitive, and part of a caring community.
Looking forward to seeing you at the concert!
CONGRATULATIONS to Samuel Zwickel and Claire
Buchmann. They were selected to participate at the
UWEC Clearwater Choral Festival on Saturday, October
11th. They will rehearse music with students from the tristate area and will perform in a concert held at Gantner
Concert Hall Saturday evening.
ATTENTION PARENTS OF MUSIC STUDENTS If you
have a child in music at MACS you are a Music Booster.
A Music Booster...What’s that? A Music Booster is a
person that cares so deeply about their child’s music
education that they will do anything to see it through to a
success. Please consider a larger role in this organization
by coming to meetings and volunteering to work at
events. We need YOUR help in any capacity. Most
currently, Music Boosters provide concessions for all
home volleyball matches and home football
games. Volleyball matches are in desperate need of
people like YOU to sign up. Please get involved by
registering at VolunteerSpot.org (found on the MACS
webpage) right away. All volunteer hours count towards
your total for the BIG music trip, so come help out!
MARY’S BABY SHOWER
October is National Pro-Life Month and McDonell
will again be participating in Mary’s Baby Shower.
Please mark the week of October 20 - 24 on your
calendars and watch the school announcements to
see what items are most needed. Due date 12.25!
McDonell Area Catholic Schools
BAND The McDonell Concert Band is off to a great start
this season. The band represented us well at the
Chippewa Falls Oktoberfest celebration this year. We
participated in two of the festivals parades this year and
had an enormous amount of fun doing our polka music for
the people.
Congratulations to John Francis for being selected to
participate in the Wisconsin State Middle Level Honors
Band for his third year in a row. He will perform in a
concert at the end of the month of October in Madison.
Be sure to check out the first McDonell Concert on
Monday, October 20th at 7:00 PM. The choir and band
have been working very hard this fall to put together a
great program. We are planning a trip/tour to Nashville, TN
this coming February. There will be a goodwill offering at
the concert to help send our students on this adventure.
Notre Dame Middle School bands are also off to a great
start. There are 45 kids in the band this year. This is up by
ten from last season. Thank you to all who have made this
possible.
Ten of our middle school students will be representing
our school at the Shell Lake Middle Level Honors band on
November 6th. This will be an all day event with a concert
in the evening for parents and supporters of our kids. Be
sure to clear your evening for this event!
SCHOOL MUSICAL
Monday, November
10th---AUDITIONS
for McDonell's
musical Peter Pan-after school in the
auditorium for all
middle and high
school students!
November 11th call
back auditions and auditions for Holy Ghost and St. Peter's
4th and 5th graders.
Performance dates are January 23rd and 24th at 7:30 pm
and January 25th at 2:00 pm
We have a lot of parts available for everyone to
participate in the work and fun.
Calling all MACS Dads! Alumni! and other helpful
men! Haven't you always wanted to be a Pirate...even if
only for a little while? McDonell's Musical Peter Pan
absolutely needs your assistance to fill in the male chorus
as a Pirate. We will also need adult help "flying" four of our
characters.
Minimal rehearsal time and little to no dancing! Only four
to five Tuesday evening rehearsals and three dress
rehearsals. Contact the school 715.723.9126.
6
Family Newsletter October 2014
St. Charles Borromeo Primary School | Holy Ghost Elementary School
www.macs.k12.wi.us
Happy Birthday,
Mr. President!
Mrs. Cindy Yohnk’s first grade class
delivers “singing telegrams” and gives a
card to all the faculty and staff at St.
Charles School on their birthdays. After
learning that MACS President Mr. Jeff
Heinzen has a September birthday, the
children wanted to sing happy birthday to
him, too. Since the boys and girls could
not walk to the Central Office to deliver
his birthday song, they invited him to their
classroom instead to read them a story
written by their author study that week —
Frank Asch. After the story was read, the
students surprised Mr. Heinzen with his
birthday song, a blessing, and a birthday
card that was signed by every K-2 student.
Happy Birthday!
Mr. Jeff Heinzen reads a book to a very
attentive first grade audience (left).
Fun Fridays at Holy Ghost
Along with our Friday jeans day, Guidance
Counselor Mrs. Jenni Berg has begun a “Friday
Reward Day.” Students who have completed all
assignments, remembered band instruments and
gym clothes, etc. are rewarded with a fun hour on
these designated Fridays. Students who have not
met all their responsibilities meet in school for a
“catch up” time. On Friday, September 19th, the
majority of the school was able to participate in
several rousing games of soccer (see photos on
this page). What surprises will other Fridays hold?
McDonell Area Catholic Schools
7
Family Newsletter October 2014
St. Charles Borromeo Primary School | Holy Ghost Elementary School
www.macs.k12.wi.us
Students discover exciting new adventures in their school libraries
The boys and girls at St. Charles and Holy Ghost Schools were excited to see the school libraries open again for the
2014-2015 year. It’s always a treat to search for that special book that invites you into a whole new world! Thank you to all
our wonderful library volunteers who make this special time for the children possible.
Mysteries...
adventures...
science...
biographies...
animals...
fun!
Two fourth grade girls (above left) enjoy their selections while third graders (above right) hunt for that perfect book!
Kindergarteners play “Mom” to butterflies
What does the number “FIVE” represent?
Two girls appreciate the beauty of a Monarch butterfly.
This young man proudly displays his group of “five”.
The kindergarten class is at it again! Between the two
classrooms, a total of 12 butterflies were released. The boys
and girls were able to watch the life cycle of one of God's
creatures, from an egg to watching the butterfly spread it's
wings and soar towards Mexico.
With the help of manipulatives, first grade students
gain an understanding of what numbers and symbols
represent. They explored by using beans, dots, cubes,
ceramic tiles and "jewels" what the numeric symbols 1
through 9 mean.
McDonell Area Catholic Schools
8
Family Newsletter October 2014
St. Charles Borromeo Primary School | Holy Ghost Elementary School
www.macs.k12.wi.us
And the band
played on . . .
Under the direction of Mrs.
Paula Hanson, the Holy Ghost
fourth and fifth grade band is
off to a rousing start! Well
known melodies, some played
by students who have never
before picked up an instrument,
are drifting through the halls of
the school.
Mrs. Paula Hanson (left)
leads the band in rehearsal.
Fourth grade beginners
(below left) and a seasoned
fifth grader (below right) hit
the right notes with baritone
and percussion instruments.
Thank you to our . . .
FUN “TIME” FACTS
The longest attack of the
hiccups lasted 66 years.
parents and grandparents
who spent time (and lots
of elbow grease!) cleaning
up some “new” desks and
chairs for our Holy Ghost
and St. Charles students.
We appreciate all of your
hard work!
McDonell Area Catholic Schools
A goldfish’s attention
span is three seconds.
The average koala sleeps
22 hours each day.
The average person spends about two
years on the phone in a lifetime.
9
Family Newsletter October 2014
McDonell Athletic Booster Club presents.......
Spirit of the Macks
rd
23 Annual Silent-Live Auction
Saturday, October 4, 2014
McDonell Central Catholic High School
1316 Bel Air Blvd., Chippewa Falls
Raffles and Silent Auction begin at 6:30 p.m.
Live Auction at 7:30 p.m.
Admission $10 at the door
(Price includes hors d’oeuvres, soda, and adult beverages)
Auction & Raffle Prizes
Badger, Packer and Gopher football tickets, four (4) person Canada fishing trip to Cygnet Lake with boat motor and license,
2014 Propel scooters, Go Pro, snow blower, leather recliners, Crossbow, stay at Mike & Janet’s North Star Resort, kayak,
holiday Items, rifle, shotguns, pistols, jewelry, small appliances, golf packages, bike, purses, beer vendor memorabilia,
concrete coupon, gift cards-certificates to various businesses, pyramid of beer, family portrait sessions, lottery tree,
watches, decorative bowls, bar stools, apparel and so much more!
Spirit of the Macks is open to the public! Come and join us for an evening of
fun and laughter while bidding on great merchandise!
Professionally auctioneered by: Adam Blaskowski
MC by: Bob Bradovich
Special “Thank You” to all the businesses and individuals who so generously donate to this event!
We appreciate your support. Without you this night would not be possible.
ACT Scores
State
Diocese
McDonell
English
Math
Reading
Science
Composite
21.6
24.1
24.2
22.0
23.4
23.8
22.4
24.0
24.7
22.3
23.7
24.3
22.2
23.9
24.4
Dear Parents, Alumni, and Friends,
th
We have had an excellent start to the year. The 6 graders are a very good addition to our community. The new
students in other grades and foreign exchange students have made a nice transition and will add much to McDonell and
Notre Dame.
I am including an article below from the Diocese and a chart of our current senior’s ACT scores. When you examine the
chart you will notice that the Diocese scores over the state averages in every category. More importantly you will notice
that the McDonell seniors out-paced the state and Diocesan scores in every category.
Congratulations to our seniors and staff for a job well done. Good ACT scores will help our seniors to get into the colleges
and universities they want and will help them earn scholarships.
Sincerely,
Brother Roger
Diocesan high schools’ average ACT scores above state, five years running
By: Joseph O’Brien, Staff Writer, The Catholic Times for the Diocese of La Crosse
LA CROSSE – The Catholic schools of the Diocese of La Crosse are more than making the grade when it comes to
ACT scores.
According to an Aug. 20th “College Readiness Letter” report from ACT, Inc., to the diocese, for the past five years,
Catholic high schools in the diocese have scored consistently higher than the state average in English, Mathematics,
Reading and Science components of the national test facilitated by the Iowa City, Iowa, company.
According to Assistant Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of La Crosse, Tom Reichenbacher,
reflecting these higher scores, the diocesan composite score was higher than the average state composite score.
Between 2010 and 2014, the diocesan average ranged from 23.1 in 2012 to 2011’s high water mark of 24.0. Within those
same five years, the state average remained flat, hovering between 22.1 and 22.2. This state average closely matches
this year’s national average of 22.0.
This year’s composite average for the diocese was 23.9 while the state’s composite average for this year was 22.2.
In individual subjects, the diocese scored an average 24.2 on the ACT’s English section in 2011, compared to the
state’s 21.6 average score that year. This represents the greatest jump between diocesan and state averages in individual
subject scores for all five years. For the narrowest difference between diocesan and state individual subject averages, in
mathematics the diocese scored 22.5 compared to 22.0 for the state in the 2012. This year, the diocesan average
mathematics score has improved to 23.4 compared to 22.0 for the state.
Like its older competitor, the SAT, founded in 1926, the ACT, founded in 1959, is an accredited national standardized
test which secular and Catholic U.S. colleges use to survey and quantify individual high school achievement as an
important basis for admission. Students score in the ACT on a scale of 1-36. For the past five years the diocesan
composite score has been at least a point above the state average.
Adding excellence to excellence, Superintendent for Catholic Schools of the Diocese of La Crosse Susan Holman
said the recent ACT report only further highlights the place Catholic schools of the diocese have in Wisconsin.
“We are proud of our teachers and administrators who are very effective in preparing our students to compete in the
world after high school,” she said.“ Wisconsin is ranked second in the nation among states where more than half of the
students take the ACT test. The work ethic of our students, their educational foundation, and the active participation and
high interest in education of our families enhance the curriculum taught in our schools. It is rewarding to have the
performance of our students verified by a national testing organization.”
While the individual subject scores are important, Reichenbacher said, the composite scores are the most important
for students seeking admission to college.
“The composite is the score that everyone judges,” he said. “If you’re trying to get into University of Wisconsin-La
Crosse, for instance, or Viterbo University (in La Crosse), the admissions department is looking at the composite scores.
We noticed that five years in a row our entire diocese, all seven catholic high schools, have been above the state average
by a solid point or more.”
While the diocesan high schools made a robust showing in mathematics this year on the ACT, Reichenbacher said,
the consistent results in the language-based sections reveals these schools’ strong suit.
“The ACT is a language test,” he said. “The test is in some regards based on how well you read and write – and our
Catholic schools have always done a great job of teaching language arts. We have always had strong writers in our
schools and that’s a nice base to have.”
Good test preparation programs and teaching excellence are key components of success for Catholic high school
students taking the ACT, Reichenbacher said, and these test results also indicate the difference a Catholic school
education can make.
“My personal opinion is that we have priorities set straight in Catholic schools,” he said. “We take care of faith first and
everything else seems to fall into place. So taking care of the priorities means that the kids understand the expectations in
the classrooms.”
The scores also bode well, Reichenbacher said, for the fate of the school choice program which the Wisconsin
Department of Instruction expanded last year to include Catholic schools in the diocese. The program promises to be an
issue in this year’s state elections.
“On school choice program,” he said, “Catholic schools are asked in school choice to be held accountable, and these
scores we’ve achieved are yet another way of being accountable and saying our students are doing very well.”
Diocese of La Crosse and State of Wisconsin ACT Scores Five-­‐Year Trends Total Tested English Mathematics Reading Science Composite Graduation Year Diocese State Diocese Diocese Diocese Diocese 2010 362 47,755 23.5 2011 349 2012 State State Diocese State State State 21.5 22.7 22 23.6 22.3 22.8 22.2 23.3 22.1 47,693 24.2 21.6 23.6 22.1 23.9 22.2 23.7 22.3 24 22.2 309 47,588 23.4 21.5 22.5 22 23.3 22.1 22.8 22.1 23.1 22.1 2013 319 46,574 23.7 21.5 22.8 22 23.9 22.3 23.4 22.2 23.6 22.1 2014 311 46,870 24.1 21.6 23.4 22 24 22.4 23.7 22.3 23.9 22.2 It’s time t o get ready!
7th Annual Spaghetti Spectacular!
Planning has already begun for the Spaghetti Spectacular, set for SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9TH. As always, we
will be featuring fabulous food and creative classroom raffle baskets at this all school fundraiser. The Packers
don’t play until 7:00 p.m. that day so there is no excuse to miss this great event! !
ITEMS FOR THE CLASSROOM RAFFLE BASKETS SHOULD BE AT SCHOOL BY FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17TH.
This will allow enough time for our teachers to put baskets together and we can feature them on our website.
Remember to direct out-of-town relatives to our website so they can see which basket(s) they would like to
purchase tickets.
FOR OUR NEW MACS FAMILIES~ Raffle baskets are created by each grade from merchandise donated by their
families. Each basket has a theme chosen by that grade. Our goal is to have each basket valued at approximately
$200. Donations are optional, not required, and any level of generosity is greatly appreciated. The baskets are a
fun way to include children in each grade, in what is one of our biggest fundraisers of the year. You can view the
selection of baskets from last years event on the MACS website under the parent page.
Don't forget, the VOLUNTEER SIGNUP DEADLINE IS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17TH. Please go to the Volunteer
Spot link on the parent page on the MACS website to pick your time slot and duty. Use the MACS All School
calendar to find the Spaghetti Spectacular. Any open slots after the 17th will be assigned and it will be your
responsibility to fill your shift or find a replacement.
AREAS WHERE ASSISTANCE IS NEEDED:
• Donate an item for your child’s raffle basket. (Watch for a grade specific memo to come home soon).
• Donate any amount of ground beef. (This can be sent at any time, as it will be frozen until the event).
• Donate a box or two of spaghetti, Creamette brand only please as each brand cooks differently. Drop of
boxes will be available at each school and at parent/teacher conferences at Notre Dame and McDonell.
Please have any spaghetti donations to school by Friday, October 31st.
• If you'd rather give a monetary donation, we will do the shopping for you for these items.
• Volunteer your time at the event on Sunday or Monday. (Monday we will be delivering spaghetti lunch
orders to local businesses so if you have a flexible schedule, the more drivers we have the better!)
100% PARTICIPATION IS MANDITORY FOR ALL MACS FAMILY MEMBERS TO MAKE THIS A
SUCCESSFUL EVENT!!! PLEASE HELP IN WHICHEVER WAY OR WAYS THAT ARE MOST APPROPRIATE
AND FUN FOR YOUR FAMILY!!!
Our goal is $20,000. Together we can do it!
If you have questions, please email parent volunteer committee chair Cheryl Herr at: cherr77@gmail.com