Christopher Columbus High School
A Catholic School for Young Men in the Marist Tradition since 1958
August 2018 Principal's Newsletter
From the Office of Principal David Pugh
As the sun rises on a new school year, let us give thanks!
We thank God for:
We thank God for:
▪ all Marist Brothers and Marist Educators.
▪ being able to celebrate our 60th year anniversary as a Catholic Marist High School.
▪ the opportunity to educate our young men in a Catholic Marist academic environment.
▪ our dedicated and distinguished alumni, family, and friends.
▪ all those who laid the foundation for our rich history and tradition.
▪ being able to celebrate our 60th year anniversary as a Catholic Marist High School.
▪ the opportunity to educate our young men in a Catholic Marist academic environment.
▪ our dedicated and distinguished alumni, family, and friends.
▪ all those who laid the foundation for our rich history and tradition.
May we have a rewarding and memorable 60th Anniversary Year!
Columbus Rebrands for 60th Anniversary
By now you have all probably seen our new “C” logo and other brand marks around campus. We felt that our 60th Anniversary year was the opportune moment to set the tone for the future and on August 1st, the rebrand was launched with new banners, bus wraps, and a new look to our website, social media, publications and stationary.
Guidelines are now in place that will help our school convey a visual consistency across all communications, using our new marks, colors, and typography (view brand guidelines). The new designs were developed from research conducted with faculty, alumni, students and parents. This will surely be a year of transition as we move towards the new brand elements.
One area to look out for is our new online store, ColumbusExplorers.Shop, coming soon in September with fashionable new clothing and merchandise.
By now you have all probably seen our new “C” logo and other brand marks around campus. We felt that our 60th Anniversary year was the opportune moment to set the tone for the future and on August 1st, the rebrand was launched with new banners, bus wraps, and a new look to our website, social media, publications and stationary.
Guidelines are now in place that will help our school convey a visual consistency across all communications, using our new marks, colors, and typography (view brand guidelines). The new designs were developed from research conducted with faculty, alumni, students and parents. This will surely be a year of transition as we move towards the new brand elements.
One area to look out for is our new online store, ColumbusExplorers.Shop, coming soon in September with fashionable new clothing and merchandise.
On-Campus Security
Many changes occurred during the summer that have improved security on campus. Here are just a few:
▪ New secure locks on all classroom and bathroom doors
▪ New fencing protecting the cafeteria and main office
▪ Impact door replacements
▪ New CONCIERGEpad visitor access program which screens all visitors
▪ New secure locks on all classroom and bathroom doors
▪ New fencing protecting the cafeteria and main office
▪ Impact door replacements
▪ New CONCIERGEpad visitor access program which screens all visitors
60th Anniversary Year Mass is Celebrated by Archbishop Wenski
On August 30th, we kicked off the opening of our 60th Anniversary year with a Mass attended by the entire student body, celebrated by the Most Reverend Thomas G. Wenski, Archbishop of Miami. In his homily Archbishop Wenski called upon our Explorers to “hear the Lord’s invitation to follow him” and to “dare to love as Christ loves.” As a Catholic, Marist school, with an emphasis on discipline and character, our young men are equipped with the courage to act on that invitation – and follow Jesus as they make their journey through life.
A highlight of the Mass was when Br. Kevin presented the Archbishop with a Columbus branded motorcycle helmet, hand crafted by alumnus Marcus Rivero ’02. Archbishop Wenski tried it on amongst a roar of cheers and applause from the students. Also in attendance was Fr. Alejandro Rodriguez Artola (Pastor, St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church and CCHS alumnus), Br. Tom Schady, F.M.S. (Director of Marist Education), Fr. Elvis González (Vocations Director, Archdiocese of Miami), and Fr. Miguel Sepúlveda (Pastor, St. Brendan Catholic Church). Special thanks to our campus ministry team of Mr. Gonzalez, Br. Brady, Br. Tom, and Mrs. Alegret.
A highlight of the Mass was when Br. Kevin presented the Archbishop with a Columbus branded motorcycle helmet, hand crafted by alumnus Marcus Rivero ’02. Archbishop Wenski tried it on amongst a roar of cheers and applause from the students. Also in attendance was Fr. Alejandro Rodriguez Artola (Pastor, St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church and CCHS alumnus), Br. Tom Schady, F.M.S. (Director of Marist Education), Fr. Elvis González (Vocations Director, Archdiocese of Miami), and Fr. Miguel Sepúlveda (Pastor, St. Brendan Catholic Church). Special thanks to our campus ministry team of Mr. Gonzalez, Br. Brady, Br. Tom, and Mrs. Alegret.
Welcome new Marist Educators
We welcome the following new faculty/staff members to the Columbus family: Melissa Alonso (Spanish Teacher), Adriana Amador (Mas Family Program, Honors Coordinator), Colleen Anderson (Mas Family Program, Internship Coordinator-not pictured), Brett Barrentine (Permanent Substitute Teacher/Football Coach), Emmanuel Gonzalez (Theology Teacher), Victor Jacques (Athletics, Strength Coach/Fitness Trainer-not pictured), Jake Koch (Permanent Substitute Teacher/Lacrosse Coach-not pictured), Cody McKeon (Permanent Substitute Teacher), Carlos Nunez (Guidance Counselor), Ernesto Querido (Math Teacher), and Marilyn Romero (Guidance Advisor)
We started the new year with the traditional Marist Retreat. Brother Al, Mr. Gonzalez, and their campus ministry team provided an excellent opportunity for our teachers to engage in conversation, reflect on our Mission, and encourage us as a community to continue practicing our faith, respect for one another, and compassion for those less fortunate. We also conducted training in technology, differentiated learning strategies, and interpreting data.
The first day of school as a Columbus Explorer usually brings experiences that are never forgotten. As always, school president, Br. Kevin, led the freshmen in his legendary “Give Me a C” cheer on their first day of the 2018/19 school year. View Video of Br. Kevin's Cheer
Please read this great article that was published in the Community Newspapers of Miami entitled “What’s in the water fountains at Christopher Columbus High School?” The Columbus family does have a lot to be proud of!
Beach Bash
Our Beach Bash School Dance, now in its 21st year, has turned into one of the most popular events for high schoolers in our Miami community. It signals the end of the first week and beginning of a new school year. Many of our students and young ladies from neighboring schools attended. Thank you to SAC moderators Ms. Cedeno and Mrs. Gonzalez, the SAC board, and all the faculty and staff who helped at the event.
Our Beach Bash School Dance, now in its 21st year, has turned into one of the most popular events for high schoolers in our Miami community. It signals the end of the first week and beginning of a new school year. Many of our students and young ladies from neighboring schools attended. Thank you to SAC moderators Ms. Cedeno and Mrs. Gonzalez, the SAC board, and all the faculty and staff who helped at the event.
On August 23, at the season opening varsity football game against Mater Academy, the Columbus family held a tribute to Ari Arteaga, our Columbus brother who sadly passed away in a car crash on July 28th. Ari’s parents were presented with a football jersey with the number 30, the number Ari would have worn this year, and a signed team picture. In Ari’s honor, the team wears a patch on their helmets this year with the number 30 and Ari’s name. The team knows Ari will be watching over them this year. They went on to win the game 35-0.
Cross Country Teams Finished First
Both the JV and Varsity Cross Country teams finished in first place in their respective season opening races. Good luck to Coach Pino and the team this season.
Both the JV and Varsity Cross Country teams finished in first place in their respective season opening races. Good luck to Coach Pino and the team this season.
News From the Guidance Department:
The guidance department held a College Bootcamp focused on the college application process. Representatives from several colleges, including the University of Miami, Florida State University, and the University of Alabama took the opportunity to speak with our seniors. Thank you to Mrs. Vinson, Ms. Raful and all of our dedicated guidance counselors.
The department already has a full schedule of college visits for the Fall. Below is a list of upcoming September dates.
The guidance department held a College Bootcamp focused on the college application process. Representatives from several colleges, including the University of Miami, Florida State University, and the University of Alabama took the opportunity to speak with our seniors. Thank you to Mrs. Vinson, Ms. Raful and all of our dedicated guidance counselors.
The department already has a full schedule of college visits for the Fall. Below is a list of upcoming September dates.
September College Visits:
September 7th: Johnson & Wales University (9:30am, Ms. Vinson's office)
September 10th: Ohio State University (8:15am, LBC)
September 10th: Catholic University (11:00am, M25)
September 13th: Florida International University (9:00am, LBC)
September 13th: University of Florida (11:00am, LBC)
September 18th: Nova Southeastern University (11:00am, M25)
September 19th: Florida State University (8:30am, LBC)
September 19th: University of Alabama (10:00am, LBC)
September 20th: Notre Dame (11:00am, M25)
September 21st: Providence College (8:30am, Ms. Vinson's office)
September 21st: Boston University (10:00am, M25)
September 21st: Florida Polytechnic University (11:00am, M25)
September 24th: Florida Institute of Technology (1:00pm, M25)
September 26th: Emory University (9:30am, Ms. Vinson's office)
September 26th: Georgia Tech University (1:30pm, M25)
September 7th: Johnson & Wales University (9:30am, Ms. Vinson's office)
September 10th: Ohio State University (8:15am, LBC)
September 10th: Catholic University (11:00am, M25)
September 13th: Florida International University (9:00am, LBC)
September 13th: University of Florida (11:00am, LBC)
September 18th: Nova Southeastern University (11:00am, M25)
September 19th: Florida State University (8:30am, LBC)
September 19th: University of Alabama (10:00am, LBC)
September 20th: Notre Dame (11:00am, M25)
September 21st: Providence College (8:30am, Ms. Vinson's office)
September 21st: Boston University (10:00am, M25)
September 21st: Florida Polytechnic University (11:00am, M25)
September 24th: Florida Institute of Technology (1:00pm, M25)
September 26th: Emory University (9:30am, Ms. Vinson's office)
September 26th: Georgia Tech University (1:30pm, M25)
Honoring Dedicated Engineering Students
We recognize the efforts of five engineering students that have helped our engineering program immensely with their efforts and enthusiasm. They recently volunteered their time to put on a wonderful Engineer's Week and made sure that Engineering was well represented at the Course Elective Fair. This year the number of engineering classes at Columbus has doubled and enrollment for the Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) increased by 50% from two to three classes (over 90 students). These five students, along with ten of their classmates, will also be part of the newest PLTW course at Columbus next year -- Principles of Engineering. Congratulations to sophomores: Daniel Parrondo, Ryan Vidal, Alexander Buonocore, Daniel Saez and Charles Shelton. Special thanks to our Engineering teacher and NASA Solar System Ambassador, Mr. Rodriguez.
We recognize the efforts of five engineering students that have helped our engineering program immensely with their efforts and enthusiasm. They recently volunteered their time to put on a wonderful Engineer's Week and made sure that Engineering was well represented at the Course Elective Fair. This year the number of engineering classes at Columbus has doubled and enrollment for the Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) increased by 50% from two to three classes (over 90 students). These five students, along with ten of their classmates, will also be part of the newest PLTW course at Columbus next year -- Principles of Engineering. Congratulations to sophomores: Daniel Parrondo, Ryan Vidal, Alexander Buonocore, Daniel Saez and Charles Shelton. Special thanks to our Engineering teacher and NASA Solar System Ambassador, Mr. Rodriguez.
Patrick Othon’s Eye Glass Frame Drive
Patrick Othon '21 collected 180 eye glass frames and cases for needy children and adults who can’t afford them. He provided the frames to the Mexican-American Council with whom he collaborated with on the project.
Patrick Othon '21 collected 180 eye glass frames and cases for needy children and adults who can’t afford them. He provided the frames to the Mexican-American Council with whom he collaborated with on the project.
Tommy Pozo Recognized by Congresswoman Ileana Ross-Lehtinen
Tommy Pozo was presented with certificates of recognition for invaluable service to the community by Congresswoman Ileana Ross-Lehtinen. Tommy interned at the Congresswoman’s office over the summer.
Tommy Pozo was presented with certificates of recognition for invaluable service to the community by Congresswoman Ileana Ross-Lehtinen. Tommy interned at the Congresswoman’s office over the summer.
Marcel Van Hemert Speaks at Books and Books
Junior Marcel Van Hemert gave a talk and presentation entitled “Que Rico Es!” to an audience at Books and Books in Coral Gables. The presentation was made possible through Marcel’s Herencia Fellowship through the Herencia Cultural Cubana's Dr. Levi Marrero Lecture Series.
Junior Marcel Van Hemert gave a talk and presentation entitled “Que Rico Es!” to an audience at Books and Books in Coral Gables. The presentation was made possible through Marcel’s Herencia Fellowship through the Herencia Cultural Cubana's Dr. Levi Marrero Lecture Series.
Our Debate Program Director and Social Studies AP Teacher, Mr. Randall Martinez, has been honored for his achievements as a 2018 Outstanding Educator by the University of Chicago. This award is based on nominations from first-year students at the University of Chicago who were asked to identify teachers who had a significant and positive impact on their education.
Drug Testing Kicked Off in August
On August 31st, Columbus held its first drug testing of the school year. It is always important to lead by example. This is why I decided to join the students and submit a hair sample in support of our drug testing program. This year, Mr. Josh Cantor, our Wellness Center Director, has also taken on the role of our Drug and Alcohol Prevention Specialist, replacing Mr. Keith Green, who has retired. Mr. Cantor, along with our administration and the entire school community understand the social pressure and dangers that teens face regarding drug and alcohol use and work to help students make positive, healthy choices. Our mandatory drug testing program is just one of our prevention initiatives.
On August 31st, Columbus held its first drug testing of the school year. It is always important to lead by example. This is why I decided to join the students and submit a hair sample in support of our drug testing program. This year, Mr. Josh Cantor, our Wellness Center Director, has also taken on the role of our Drug and Alcohol Prevention Specialist, replacing Mr. Keith Green, who has retired. Mr. Cantor, along with our administration and the entire school community understand the social pressure and dangers that teens face regarding drug and alcohol use and work to help students make positive, healthy choices. Our mandatory drug testing program is just one of our prevention initiatives.
Youth and Juul Use
As we work together to ensure safety and good health for our young men. I remind our community that Juul use on campus is not permitted and a two-day suspension from school is the consequence. I urge you to read the article found on the link below by Tobacco Free Florida and have that discussion with your son. We will continue to educate our students by bringing in National and local speakers throughout the year.
#ThrowUpTheC – Summer 2018
Thank you to all of the Columbus alumni, students and their families who shared their #ThrowUpTheC pictures with us from your summer vacations.
The CPride amongst our Columbus family is stronger than ever!
UPCOMING SEPTEMBER DATES TO REMEMBER:
9/4: Labor Day (No School)
9/5: Senior Parent Meeting (6:30 – 8:30pm, Cafeteria)
9/6-7 Freshman Retreat (Morning Star Renewal Center)
9/10: Club Fair (2:50 – 3:25 (Cafeteria)
9/13-14 Sophomore Retreat (Morning Star Renewal Center)
9/19-21 Senior Encounter Retreat (Morning Star Renewal Center)
9/21: Annual CCHS vs. Belen Football Game (Tropical Park, 7:30pm)
9/24: Orientation for Freshman Parents M-Z (6:30pm, Cafeteria)
9/25: Orientation for Freshman Parents A-L (6:30pm, Cafeteria)
9/26: Picture Make-up Day (8:30am – 2:30pm, gym)
Thank you to all of the Columbus alumni, students and their families who shared their #ThrowUpTheC pictures with us from your summer vacations.
The CPride amongst our Columbus family is stronger than ever!
UPCOMING SEPTEMBER DATES TO REMEMBER:
9/4: Labor Day (No School)
9/5: Senior Parent Meeting (6:30 – 8:30pm, Cafeteria)
9/6-7 Freshman Retreat (Morning Star Renewal Center)
9/10: Club Fair (2:50 – 3:25 (Cafeteria)
9/13-14 Sophomore Retreat (Morning Star Renewal Center)
9/19-21 Senior Encounter Retreat (Morning Star Renewal Center)
9/21: Annual CCHS vs. Belen Football Game (Tropical Park, 7:30pm)
9/24: Orientation for Freshman Parents M-Z (6:30pm, Cafeteria)
9/25: Orientation for Freshman Parents A-L (6:30pm, Cafeteria)
9/26: Picture Make-up Day (8:30am – 2:30pm, gym)
Christopher Columbus High School | 3000 SW 87 Avenue | Miami, FL 33165 | (305) 223-5650
Brotherhood, Faith, and Scholarship define the Marist Brothers Catholic education at Christopher Columbus High School. By making Jesus Christ known and loved and creating an inspiring academic and extracurricular environment, we prepare young men for higher learning and a life-long commitment to leadership and service through Gospel and Marist values.
Columbus is fully accredited by Cognia and is a member of the Marist Association of Secondary schools, the National Catholic Education Association and the Independent Schools of South Florida.
