Christopher Columbus High School
A Catholic School for Young Men in the Marist Tradition since 1958
May 2017 Newsletter
From the Office of Principal David Pugh
On May 27th, 369 young men graduated from Columbus who will go on to pursue their education at the college level (Ivy League as well as top national and local universities). Special thanks to Mrs. Call for coordinating the graduation ceremony.
The class was awarded over $10,000,000 in scholarships and completed over 71,000 hours of community service. They now join the Columbus alumni brotherhood of 14,000+, ready for the challenges that lie ahead.
We hope that the moral foundation they received as Explorers will guide them throughout their life-long learning and that they always keep in touch with their Columbus family. Adelante!
Kudos to the Valedictorian and Salutatorian
Special congratulations to valedictorian Kevin Nodarse who will be attending Johns Hopkins University and salutatorian Jonathan Aguiar who will be attending Northwestern University.
Special congratulations to valedictorian Kevin Nodarse who will be attending Johns Hopkins University and salutatorian Jonathan Aguiar who will be attending Northwestern University.
Once Again, Columbus Led Miami-Dade in Silver Knight Winners
Columbus won an unprecedented four Silver Knight Awards and four Honorable Mentions at the Miami Herald's Silver Knight Awards Ceremony which was held on the evening of May 17th at the James L. Knight Center. With the addition of this year’s four winners, Columbus has led Miami-Dade County with the most Silver Knight Awards for four consecutive years (12 since 2014). In the history of the Silver Knight Awards, Columbus is the private school that has won the most amount of Silver Knights, 20 in total. We congratulate the 2017 winners: Anthony Martinez (Digital & Interactive Media), David Sanchez (Mathematics), Kaelen Krumich (Vocational Technical) and Jose Cardelle (World Languages), Eduardo Llano (Honorable Mention Athletics), Thomas Falcon (Honorable Mention Business), Christopher Vazquez (Honorable Mention English & Literature) and Danyel De Villiers (Honorable Mention Journalism).
Columbus won an unprecedented four Silver Knight Awards and four Honorable Mentions at the Miami Herald's Silver Knight Awards Ceremony which was held on the evening of May 17th at the James L. Knight Center. With the addition of this year’s four winners, Columbus has led Miami-Dade County with the most Silver Knight Awards for four consecutive years (12 since 2014). In the history of the Silver Knight Awards, Columbus is the private school that has won the most amount of Silver Knights, 20 in total. We congratulate the 2017 winners: Anthony Martinez (Digital & Interactive Media), David Sanchez (Mathematics), Kaelen Krumich (Vocational Technical) and Jose Cardelle (World Languages), Eduardo Llano (Honorable Mention Athletics), Thomas Falcon (Honorable Mention Business), Christopher Vazquez (Honorable Mention English & Literature) and Danyel De Villiers (Honorable Mention Journalism).
As a Marist school that places great emphasis on the importance of helping the less fortunate, we are extremely proud of these Explorers for being recognized for their academic achievements and commitment to service. Special thanks to Mrs. Galvez-Cuesta, Silver Knight Program Coordinator, and the team of Mrs. Cibran, Mrs. Pita, Mr. Corazon and Mrs. Chomat for helping to prepare all 15 of our Silver Knight nominees.
The Baccalaureate Mass, which is always held a few days before graduation, is a tradition at Columbus where seniors take time to reflect on their high school years and their journey in faith.
At this Mass, we always take time to honor our alumni whose sons are about to graduate and call both the fathers and sons to the front of the church to be recognized. Thank you to Mr. Gonzalez and the Campus Ministry team.
At this Mass, we always take time to honor our alumni whose sons are about to graduate and call both the fathers and sons to the front of the church to be recognized. Thank you to Mr. Gonzalez and the Campus Ministry team.
Special thanks to Mrs. Cedeno and Mrs. Gonzalez for putting on an amazing prom that our seniors will never forget.
This year, in particular, there were many colorful outfits that were well suited for our theme of Cirque du Columbus.
It was a busy month for the Columbus Anglers Club as they appeared on the Chevy Florida Insider Fishing Report Show on Fox Sun Sports and helped two local elementary school fishing tournaments, as part of their community service initiative.
Anglers Club members served young students from St. Thomas Apostle and St. Theresa School, helping them become better and more responsible anglers. Thank you Coach Dukes!
Anglers Club members served young students from St. Thomas Apostle and St. Theresa School, helping them become better and more responsible anglers. Thank you Coach Dukes!
Track Team Brings Home State Runner-Up Trophy
4 x 100m/4 x 400m Teams Won State Championships
It was another fantastic season for the Track Team who once again brought home a state runner-up championship trophy. Along the way, two Explorer teams won state championships - the 4x100 team of Trajan Bandy, CJ Henderson, Joshua Jobe, and Tyler Harrell (time - 40.97) and the 4x400 team of Xzavier Henderson, CJ Henderson, Cameron Daniel, and Tyler Harrell (time - 4:15.48). Also, the 4x800 team of Alec Cuevas, Deshay Fernandez, Nicolas Aixala, and Xzavier Henderson were state runner-ups with a time of 8:05 while Tyler Harrell placed 3rd and 4th in the 200m and 100m, respectively and Deshay Fernandes placed 2nd and 6th in the 800m and 1600m, respectively. Congratulations are in order for Coach Foyo and the entire team.
4 x 100m/4 x 400m Teams Won State Championships
It was another fantastic season for the Track Team who once again brought home a state runner-up championship trophy. Along the way, two Explorer teams won state championships - the 4x100 team of Trajan Bandy, CJ Henderson, Joshua Jobe, and Tyler Harrell (time - 40.97) and the 4x400 team of Xzavier Henderson, CJ Henderson, Cameron Daniel, and Tyler Harrell (time - 4:15.48). Also, the 4x800 team of Alec Cuevas, Deshay Fernandez, Nicolas Aixala, and Xzavier Henderson were state runner-ups with a time of 8:05 while Tyler Harrell placed 3rd and 4th in the 200m and 100m, respectively and Deshay Fernandes placed 2nd and 6th in the 800m and 1600m, respectively. Congratulations are in order for Coach Foyo and the entire team.
Mr. Bowman took his Sports Management class of juniors and seniors on a tour of American Airlines Arena with host and courtside reporter for the Miami Heat, Jason Jackson.
Additional 9 Seniors Signed Letters of Intent to Play College Sports
Congratulations to the following students who will go on to play their sport in college: Baseball: Juan Alviz (St. Thomas University), Chris Gonzalez (Stetson University); Football: David Contreras (Ave Maria University), Michael Estevez (Becker College), Nick Gonzalez (St. Vincent University), Orlando Hidalgo (Bentley University); Golf: Jake Moscoso (Missouri Vallege College); Track & Field: Justin Jackson ( Nova Southeastern University); Wrestling: Michael Codinach (Life University, Atlanta)
Congratulations to the following students who will go on to play their sport in college: Baseball: Juan Alviz (St. Thomas University), Chris Gonzalez (Stetson University); Football: David Contreras (Ave Maria University), Michael Estevez (Becker College), Nick Gonzalez (St. Vincent University), Orlando Hidalgo (Bentley University); Golf: Jake Moscoso (Missouri Vallege College); Track & Field: Justin Jackson ( Nova Southeastern University); Wrestling: Michael Codinach (Life University, Atlanta)
Explorers Honored At Miami Herald All-Dade Awards Breakfast
Congratulations to all the Columbus Explorers that were honored by the Miami Herald for their athletic prowess throughout the 2016-17 school year.
Congratulations to all the Columbus Explorers that were honored by the Miami Herald for their athletic prowess throughout the 2016-17 school year.
Baseball: 1st Team: Chris Gonzalez, Danny San Pedro; 2nd Team: Mike Fernandez; 3rd Team: Slinky Mederos, Danny Martin; Cross Country: 1st Team: Deshay Fernandes; 3rd Team: Alec Cuevas; Football: 1st Team: Mike Rodriguez, Trajan Bandy, Josh Jobe; 2nd Team: Robert Perez, Darren Davis; 3rd Team: Tony Mills; Golf: 1st Team: Roberto Nieves; 2nd Team: Sharif Amastha, Jake Moscoso; 3rd Team: Robby De Paz, Joel Garcia Lee; Lacrosse: 1st Team: Alberto Diaz; Soccer: 1st Team: Kevin Youmans, Daniel Mayorga; 2nd Team: Eduardo Velazcos; 3rd Team: Pierre Denis, Jorge Escobar; Swimming: 3rd Team: Fernando Rodriguez, Brandon Vives; Track & Field: 1st Team: Chris Bentley, Deshay Fernandes, 400 Relay (CJ Henderson, Tyler Harrell, Trajan Bandy and Joshua Jobe); 2nd Team: Robert Crockett, Rodney Powell, Tyler Harrell, Deshay Fernandes, 1600 Relay (Xzavier Henderson, Christopher Henderson, Cameron Daniel, Tyler Harrell), 3200 Relay (Alex Cuevas, Deshay Fernandes, Nicholas Aixala, Xzavier Hernandez; 3rd Team: Gary Cooper; Water Polo: 2nd Team: Daniel Adams; Wrestling: 2nd Team: Justin Valdes, Carmine D’ascoli; 3rd Team: Charlie Huffman; Volleyball: 3rd Team: Logan Plummer
Special thanks to Mr. McKeon, Mr. Staiano, coaches, trainers, and everyone affiliated with the Columbus Athletic Program.
The Drama Troupe performed the fast paced and exciting improv show- "Too Much Light Makes the Explorer Go Blind!” It was the troupe’s most successful show of the year. The audience was impressed with how quickly the students could come up with different scenarios and jokes, on the spot. Special thanks to moderator Mrs. McGrath.
Senior Christopher Forero received the 3rd place award for a speech he entered in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Voice of Democracy Program.
Other students that received recognition as part of the VFW program were: Adrian Badenjki, Matthieu Estrada, Daniel Martin, Nicholas Alvear, Diego Lopez, and Nicholas Orriols. Thank you Ms. McCullagh for encouraging our students to participate in this program.
CCNN Live won the Cuban Guys Restaurants' “Pan Con Lechon Commercial Contest.” The team won $1,000 and their commercial for the restaurant chain will air on television. To view the winning commercial on facebook CLICK HERE.
CCNN Named a “Program to Watch”/Members Covered the “The Honor Flight”
CCNN Live was named a 'Program to Watch' by the Journalism Education Association.
CCNN Live was named a 'Program to Watch' by the Journalism Education Association.
Also, several CCNN students covered The Honor Flight, which involved welcoming Korean War and World War II veterans at Miami International Airport. Freshman Kevin Angueira wrote to the events coordinator at the airport and was given the amazing opportunity. It was an emotional event for both the veterans and the audience, which included members of the military, community and civic groups, family and friends, the Florida Panthers and Miami Marlins, among many others. Members of the Columbus Aviation and Patriot Clubs also participated.
Jesus Capo and David Perez received trophies for their 3rd place state science fair project at the STEAM Scholars Banquet, which was held at Fairchild Tropical Gardens. The banquet honors students who have participated in the State and International Science Fairs. Mrs. Sanchez, Science Department Chair, also accepted a trophy on behalf of our school.
Senior Orlando Hidalgo was honored with a First place Award in the National Constitution Center’s Founding Freedoms Playwriting Contest.
20 Explorers from the Entrepreneurship Club attended a five hour workshop at U.S. Century Bank where they learned about the banking industry and heard directly from the bank’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Luis De La Aguilera ’77. Members also visited the restaurant chain Sushi Maki to meet with upper management to discuss business and marketing aspects, not to mention the delicious taste testing extravaganza. Also in May, Mr. Corazon’s marketing class attended a lecture from the Miami Dolphin’s marketing team and social media expert Marc Boulos '12.
Campus Ministry and SQUIRES at Marist Youth Gathering
Columbus Explorers joined over 250 students and adults from Marist schools throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico at the Marist Youth Gathering at Marist College in Poughkeepsie, NY. Brother Emili Turu, Superior General of the Marist Brothers worldwide, was present to welcome the Marist Youth to this gathering. The youth participated in various activities that included prayer services, discussion groups, workshops, games, and a Mass celebrating 200 years of Marist presence in the world, followed by a dance. The Columbus delegation included Francesco Baca, Andrew Castro, Brandon Cominsky, Rodolfo De Armas, Carlos Gutierrez, Tavi Hernando, Christian Hochmuth, William Lamey, Brian Milan, Andres Molina, Alejandro Morles, Andres Perez, Robert Polster, Raul John Rivera, Paul Signori, Br. John, Mr. Lopez, and Mr. Gonzalez.
Congratulations to Math Teacher and Columbus alumnus Mr. Carlos Moro for having been selected as a Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction by the National Society of High School Scholars. He was nominated for this award by one of his past students Pablo Quiñonez for excellence in teaching and for the encouragement of and dedication to the academic success of students at Christopher Columbus High School.
Mike Marinelli Named Golf Coach of the Year (for 5th consecutive year)
Coach Marinelli and his varsity golf team had another outstanding season this year, placing 4th at the state tournament and winning the regional championships. We congratulate Coach Marinelli on his continued success!
Coach Marinelli and his varsity golf team had another outstanding season this year, placing 4th at the state tournament and winning the regional championships. We congratulate Coach Marinelli on his continued success!
CCNN Live moderators Ms. Christina Insua and Mr. Omar Delgado were recognized by Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez '72 for their exemplary attributes and various contributions to enhance the lives of young people. A well-deserved honor for these dedicated educators who lead by example.
On May 6th, Br. Eugene and Br. Kevin celebrated a joint jubilee celebration, marking their anniversaries in religious life (70th for Br. Eugene) and (60th for Br. Kevin).
We congratulate Br. Eugene and Br. Kevin and thank them for their many years of faithful service to Catholic education.
Since Columbus first opened its doors in 1958, over 100 Marist Brothers have led our young men to a life of faith and personal excellence. Through our Marist Brothers 200th Anniversary Campaign, our alumni, parents and students are given the opportunity to make a donation to the school in honor of our Marist Brothers. Our goal is $500,000 and to help us get there in our final stretch, a distinguished member of the Columbus family will match the donations of any anyone who hasn’t already donated. Make Your Donation
The Castaways Against Cancer, a group of kayakers made up of mostly Columbus teachers and alumni, will embark on their #JustBreatheTour on June 10th. To date, the group has raised over $700,000 for the American Cancer Society. Pictured are the Columbus faculty members that will take part in this year's trip: Mr. Mendoza, Mr. Pino, Mr. O'Brien, Mr. Scholer, and Mr. Pelegrin.
Summer Programs at Columbus - Camps, Enrichment Opportunities and Athletic Team Workouts
Columbus offers a wide array of summer programs for both our current students as well as for kids as young as third graders. From athletics to academics and the arts, the Explorers Summer experience is a wonderful way to introduce children to the finest all-boy Catholic high school in Miami-Dade County. For information about our summer programs – CLICK HERE.
Summer School Runs From June 14 – July 5th
Registration – June 13th
Registration – June 13th
Summer Reading Requirements
A listing of the required readings will be posted on the On Campus Resource Board in early June.
A listing of the required readings will be posted on the On Campus Resource Board in early June.
Summer Office Hours:
June 12 – July 5 (7:00am – 4:00pm)
July 6 – July 31 (8:00am – 2:00pm)
Beginning August 1st (7:00am – 4:00pm)
June 12 – July 5 (7:00am – 4:00pm)
July 6 – July 31 (8:00am – 2:00pm)
Beginning August 1st (7:00am – 4:00pm)
Upcoming Dates to Remember:
August 16: Seniors Report to Purchase Parking Permits (9:00am – 12:00noon, Room A-12)
August 17: Orientation for Freshman (in Gym) and Transfer Students (in Café), 7:45am – 12noon
August 18: New Parents Reception (7:00 – 9:00pm, Cafe)
August 20: First Day of Classes - All students report (7:45am – 2:45pm, regular full day)
August 21: New Parents Meeting A-L (6:00 – 8:00pm, Cafeteria)
August 22: Picture Day for all students
August 22: New Parents Meeting M-Z (6:30 – 8:30pm, Cafeteria)
August 24: Beach Bash, school dance (7:00pm – 11:00pm)
August 28: Back to School Night (9th & 10th grades, 6:00 – 8:00pm, Cafeteria)
August 29: Back to School Night (11th & 12th grades, 6:00 – 8:00pm, Cafeteria)
August 30: 60th Anniversary Opening Mass with Archbishop (8:00 – 9:30am, Gym)
August 31: Freshman Field Day (7:45am – 2:45pm)
August 30: 60th Anniversary Opening Mass with Archbishop (8:00 – 9:30am, Gym)
August 31: Freshman Field Day (7:45am – 2:45pm)
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.
