Star Connection FALL 2015 - Star of the Sea Catholic School

Star Connection
STAR OF THE SEA CATHOLIC SCHOOL
Fall 2015
Serving all families, including military and those of all faiths for grades PreK-8
Living Our Mission Campaign—School Renovation
Since first opening our doors in 1958 with only eight
classrooms, Star of the Sea School has been serving the
Virginia Beach area and beyond, with a strong faith-based
education, high academic standards and gospel values. To
continue serving the community into the future, Star of the Sea
Catholic School will be renovated, upgraded and expanded.
This will create a consistent standard of facility excellence to
give our students the best opportunity to thrive and succeed.
This complete renovation will be funded through the Diocese
of Richmond’s “Living Our Mission Campaign.” The Diocese
is on an historic journey to raise a minimum of $65 million in
its first ever comprehensive capital and endowment campaign.
A campaign goal of $3.5 million has been set for Star of the
Sea. The $2,965,000 parish share is dedicated entirely to the
betterment of our School through a four part project renovation
plan.
Project One will be “Classroom Building Upgrades,” with a
complete renovation of the interior and exterior of the original
school building. An enclosed walkway will be added to join the
school building to the parish building. The renovation will
result in the school architecturally resembling the much newer
church building.
Project Three will be “New Office and Middle School Building.”
A new building will be constructed to serve our middle school
students and contain our school administrative offices. The new
construction will provide a Pacific Avenue facing entrance to our
school to alleviate the existing hard-to-find front entrance. The
new brick and window design will complement the newer church
and parish hall.
Project Four will be “Gymnasium Upgrades.” The final
renovation project is to make improvements to our beloved gym.
Our gym is our most frequent “first impression” to all the other
Catholic schools in the area. It hosts our treasured tradition of
basketball, carol night and many other special events. Completing
these renovations will ensure our school traditions continue for
years to come.
For more information on the renovation project or how to
contribute, please contact Jackie Ankley at jackie.ankley@
sosschool.org or go to http://livingourmisssion.org/parishes/starof-the-sea/.
Project Two will be “Media Center and Pre-K Building
Upgrades.” This building was the original rectory. It is the
building most families are first introduced to, since it contains
our youngest preschool classrooms. With the interior and
exterior upgrades, we can ensure our youngest students have a
safe and comfortable space to learn, pray, rest and become all
that God dreams for them.
Rendering of New Pacific Facing Entrance
Star of the Sea Welcomes New Principal
In July 2015, Star of the Sea School welcomed our new
principal, Mrs. Kelly M. Lazzara, M.Ed. She is a proud product
of Catholic education and has dedicated her teaching career to
giving back to the Catholic school system.
Mrs. Kelly Lazzara, M.Ed.
In this Issue:
Pastor & Principal 2
"I feel blessed to be a part of the Star of the Sea family. As
Catholics, we are called to evangelize. Catholic schools provide
a strong faith-based education with high academic standards
and gospel values. Our students are the future of our Church
and the future leaders of our society." - Mrs. Kelly Lazzara.
Annual Report 3
Donor Lists 4-5
Alumni 6
Campus News 7
Star Connection
Page 2
A Message from the Principal & Pastor
Dear Star of the Sea Family and Friends,
As you can see from this newsletter, there are many
exciting things going on at Star of the Sea School. As we
continue on with the tradition of more than 55 years of
providing a Catholic education to students at the
oceanfront, we are looking forward to improving our
school facilities and increasing our enrollment.
We would like to thank all parishioners, parents,
grandparents, teachers, and parish staff who have
participated in the Living Our Mission Capital Campaign.
We ask those who have not done so thus far to prayerfully
consider participating with their sacrificial offering for the
mission of the diocese and the needs of the school.
God bless,
Fr. Steve DeLeon
Pastor
Kelly M. Lazzara, M.Ed
Principal
Favorite Fall Tradition
Our Fall Mile Run was held on October 7. We were
blessed with beautiful weather. The top three times were
Drew Edwards, 8th grade with a time of 5:51, Merreck
Lincoln, 6th grade with a time of 6:23, and Keene Lincoln, a new third grade record at 6:39!
Thank you to J&A Racing for providing our timing and
the inflatable start/finish line.
Fr. Steve DeLeon and Mrs. Kelly Lazzara
team up in leading our school.
The MacGyver Effect
Pass the second grade classroom on any given Friday and
you will see the “MacGyver Effect” in action. Oh….we
know. Your first thought will be that a natural disaster
has struck the classroom. Desks are scattered all over the
room. Copy books are lying haphazardly and students are
huddled together
whispering feverishly.
Tornado? Earthquake?
Take a chance and look
closer. We dare you!
Why? Because it’s
STEM challenge day.
Students are bristling
with excitement to
“MacGyver” their latest
problem-based mission to design, create, and build clever
solutions to problems. Being resourceful and possessing
incredible imaginations, second graders are solving
complex problems with nothing more than common
household items and their own ability to imagine and
communicate amazing things. Need a bridge out of
paperclips or toothpicks? You never know when you
might need a catapult made from a spoon, some tape, and
a cardboard tube! Got a problem? Don’t panic! Call a
Star of the Sea Super Second Grader...and move over
MacGyver! There’s a new science team in town!
Our Seventh Graders Start Their Mile Run
Like us on Facebook!
Become a “Fan”www.facebook.com/SOSVB
Follow us on Twitter @ Star_Sea_School
Page 3
Annual Report 2014-2015
Statement of Activity
For the year ended June 30, 2015
School Statistics 2014-15
Income
Tuition/Extended Care
Parish Subsidies/Offertory
Third Source
Development
Fees & Activities
Total Revenue





$1,266,974.19
$139,732.01
$172,403.29
$155,609.69
$129,028.89
$1,863,748.07

Expenses
Salaries
$1,143,047.56
Fixed Charges (Insurance, Retirement) $284,744.01
Instruction
$46,001.12
Administration
$68,332.57
Development
$59,619.89
Operation & Maintenance
$117,463.69
Fees & Activities
$92,104.24
Bad Debt Expense
$3070.50
Debt Service
$1,244.50
Capital Outlay
$22,802.79
Scholarship Transfer
$25,000.00
Total Expenses
Star Connection
Enrollment - 206
Families - 153
Military Families - 19
Faculty & Staff - 42
Parent Volunteer
Hours - 7,200
Middle School Service
Hours - 2,500
$1,863,430.87
Surplus/ (Deficit)
$317.20
Development Support Programs/Events Report
Annual Appeal 2014-15
Major Gifts
Unsolicited Donations
Grants/Foundations*
United Way Donations
Golf Tournament
Auction
5K Race & 1 Mile Fun Run
$34,826.00
$10,000.00
$3,757.00
$3,500.00
$442.14
$13,943.00
$78,926.55
$10,215.00
Total Income
Total Support Costs
Surplus/(Deficit)
$155,609.69
$59,619.89
$95,989.80
*Kuhneman Foundation provided $3,500 for Chromebooks
High School Attendance – Class of 2015
Total Graduates - 24
Bishop Sullivan Catholic
High School - 8
Virginia Beach Academy
Programs - 4
 Ocean Lakes Math &
Science Academy - 2
 First Colonial Legal
Studies Academy - 2
Cost per student
Average Tuition
Virginia Beach Public Schools - 11:
 Princess Anne– 1
 Kellam High School - 1
 First Colonial High School - 3
 Cox High School - 6
Moved Out of Area-1

DOD School, Germany
Come see what’s happening at Star of the Sea Catholic School!
For information or to arrange a tour, call us at (757) 428-8400.
Visit our website at www.sosschool.org.
$8,723.96
$5,773.08
Annual Appeal Giving Circles for 2014-2015
Page 4
Angels Circle
(Gifts $5,000+)
Faye & Bill Edwards
Super Star Circle
(Gifts of $2,500 to $4,999)
Capital Group Charitable
Foundation
Tim & Genie Glaser
Teddy & Susannah Uroskie
Gold Star Circle
(Gifts $1,000—$2,499)
Ron & Debbie Giroux
Don & Kathee Larmee
Jim & Jennifer Keenan
The Ryan Club
Bruce Thompson
Terry & Cameron Walsh
Silver Star Circle
(Gifts of $500 to $999)
Jeff & Jackie Ankley
Robert & Gretchen Hudome
Lauren B. Jones
Michael L. McCarthy
Joseph & Antoinette Hawa in memory of Catherine Haltigan
James & Anna Huddleston
Catherine Ibarra
Jerry A. Kotchka
Richard & Carol Linehan
Dorothy Shipley McCubbin in
memory of Nicky MacKavanagh
Drumm
Robert K. Malloy
Mary Ellen Maxwell
Nancy McLaughlin in memory of
Nicky MacKavanagh Drumm
Kristine Mitchell
Sara Nuňez
Tom & Mary O'Dowd
William & Kathryn Reed in memory
of Nicky MacKavanagh Drumm
Charles & Linda Roberts in memory
of Nicky MacKavanagh Drumm
Paul & Jeanine Rowland
Patricia L. Schrenk in memory of
Nicky MacKavanagh Drumm
Tommy & Diane Smith
Tom & Diana Socha
Jack & Freda Stevenson in memory
of Nicky MacKavanagh Drumm
Gloria Ann Eardley Topp in memory
of Kristen Michelle Smith
Cathryn Whisman
Friends Circle
(Gifts to $99)
Bronze Star Circle
(Gifts of $250 to $499)
Vicki Berling
Richard & Arlene Burke
Angela & David Conte
Camille Delaney
Joseph & Antoinette Hawa
Mark & Lori Jankowsky in memory
of Daniel E. Brown
Melinda Large
John V. Lindsay, III
Men's Group in Memory of Ed
Brogan
The Lu Family
Quinton & Sharon Packard
Michael & Megan Scheidt
Vivian S. Scheidt
Kay Smith in Memory of Kristen
Michelle Smith
Marge Standing
Linda & Chancey Walker
Stars Circle
(Gifts $100—$249)
Mr. & Mrs. Frederick P. Aucamp in
memory of Francis J. Brichter, Sr.
Delbert Bay-Asen
Paul A. and Leona Bergen
Tracey & Peter Berning
Matt & Charlene Brehl
Jean Choplinsky
Ann K. Crenshaw
Mark & Dana DeAngelo
Lorraine DeGiorgi
John Drumm in memory of Nicky
MacKavanagh Drumm
Mary Ann Faust
Harry & Susan Fentress
Jean & William Fidyk
Terry C. Fuller
Cecil & Theresa Garber
Mark & Jamie Greenough
Suzanne W. Babb
The Bagdon Family
M. Joanne Belda
Vicki Berling in memory of Nicky
MacKavanagh Drumm
Sister MaryAnne Bolger, IHM
Frances M. Boyce in memory of
Daniel E. Brown
Mary Beth Brejnik
Shaun & Howard Choffel
Glenn Dannenfelser
Lorraine DiGiorgi in memory of
Daniel E. Brown
James & Roberta Drewiske in
memory of Daniel E. Brown
John & Mary Drumm in memory of
Nicky MacKavanagh Drumm
Lisa Dube
The Duff Family
Kathleen Edge
Brian & Shanna Flanary
Tina Fries
Mike & Brenda Gargiulo
Pat & Charles Graffeo
Adelaide Grandfield
Martha Bell Bertram Griffin
Jane U. Hamilton
John & Jennifer Harold
Neil & Carla Hermansen
Kyra Kruger
Christian & Monique Lambertz
Vince & Michelle Libasci
Gary & Mary Ellen Lulfs in memory
of Nicky MacKavanagh Drumm
Nancy McCracken
Melinda Mericle
Brenda Morris
Frank & Marcy Myler
Donna Odanga
Louise O'Konek
Rob & Lisa Psimas
Teresa A. Saulnier
Cindy Schulhafer
Briton & Kim Schwartz
Joanne Selig
The Smasal Family
Karen & Scott Spiegelhalter
George J. Switzer
Lowery VanBuskirk
Barbara Wilhelm
John & Patricia Maas
Jeanine & Nick Ritz
Sofia & Jason Robinson
Linc & Terrina Thomas
Jennifer & Scott Thompson
Brian & Sarah Tromly
Ed Zunich
Gifts in Kind
Covered Image Solution
Tina Fries
J&A Racing, Inc.
Murphy’s Irish Pub
Sentara Health Care
Law Offices of Tom C. Smith
Thrift Store USA
Supporters of
Development
Events 2014-15
School Families and
Faculty/Staff
The Almelor Family
The Ankley Family
The Bagdon Family
The Bannon Family
The Barnes Family
The Bay-Asen Family
The Berning Family
The Blackmore Family
Claudia Bourgeois
The Brehl Family
Mary Beth Brejnik
Kate Brennan
The Casella Family
The Charles Family
The Cockrill Family
The Coffelt Family
The Conte Family
The Cook Family
The Craig Family
The Cravens Family
The Dales Family
Glenn Dannenfelser
Moe Day
Jolie Day
The Dayao Family
The DeAngelo Family
Fr. Steve DeLeon
The Dirato Family
The Doctor Family
The Dowling Family
The Doy Family
Lisa Dube
The Duncan Family
The Dupre-Rios Family
Lindsey Dutko
Charlie Edwards
Tysha Edwards
The Eteke Family
Randy & Julie Fiel
The Flanary Family
The Folck Family
The Fox Family
The Fries Family
Vanessa Fuller
The Gargiulo Family
The Gerbase Family
The Gillikin Family
The Giroux Family
The Glaser Family
Adelaide Grandfield
Judy & John Grawl
The Gross Family
The Harris Family (Greg & Christie)
The Harris Family
(Jason & Stephanie)
The Hlebinsky Family
The Holder Family
The Holland Family
The Hubbard Family
The Huddleston Family
The Hudome Family
The Ingram Family
The Jacob Family
The Justice Family
The Karlis Family
The Keefe Family
The Keenan Family
The Keesecker Family
The Keever Family
The Kotchka Family
The Kruger Family
The Ladner Family
The Lambertz Family
Jaden Large
Lila Large
Melinda Large
Phoebe Large
Charlye Levine
Devin Levine
Esther Levine
Scott Levine
The Libasci Family
The Lincoln Family
The Loiacono Family
The Long Family
Thomas Lyle
John & Patricia Maas
The Malbon Family
The Markle Family
Nancy McCracken
Katharine McDonald
The Mericle Family
Kristine Mitchell
The Morrow Family
The Nahorney Family
The Nuňez Family
Ben & Donna Odanga
Tom & Mary O'Dowd
The O'Conner Family
The Olkowski Family
The Packard Family
Star Connection
The Pagano Family
The Psimas Family
The Quitaro Family
The Ritz Familly
The Rivera Family
The Robichaud Family
Gretchen Rupert
The Santos Family
The Saulnier Family
Cindy Schulhafer
The Schoening Family
The Schuele Family
The Schwartz Family
The Silberberg Family
The Silveri Family
Diana & Tom Socha
The Smasal Family
The Smith Family
The Spiegelhalter Family
The Stacy Family
The Stillwell Family
The Stinnette Family
The Tippin Family
The Thoman Family
The Thomas Family
The Thompson Family
(Jennifer & Scott)
The Thompson Family
(Josh & Joy)
The Tromly Family
Chip & Myriam Traub
The Turberville Family
Milt & Kim Twisdale
Beth Upchurch
The Ufkes Family
The Uroskie Family
Lowery Van Buskirk
Lynette Vargas
The Walker Family
Dawn Wall
The Walsh Family
Renee Wareing
The Waterman Family
The Watson Family
Cathryn Whisman
The White Family (Bob & Janet)
The White Family
(Jesse & Elizabeth)
The Winn Family
The Woolridge Family
The Young Family
Family Testimonial "Fantastic learning environment for my children and a great community of parents and volunteers. Super high
level of academics for middle schoolers with great success for those looking to move on to public school academies or local private high schools.
And good luck finding a better sports program for elementary schools… that's right elementary schools. My kids are both involved in seasonal
sports teams that compete with other area Catholic schools to create a great sense of school identity and passion."
Supporters of Development Events 2014-2015 cont’d.
Page 5
Friends of Star of the Sea
17th Street Surf Shop
757 Field Hockey Club
The Adventure Park at Virginia
Aquarium
Agio International
Alteria
Altmeyer Funeral Homes & Crematory
Atlantic Coast Real Estate
Andrew Carney Photography
Back Bay Brewing Company
Bad Ass Coffee Company
John Babb
Sean Back
Bahama Shop
Freddie Balino
Lefty Barba
Kay Basaillon
Bayflower Design
Kirk Bragg
Beach Ford
Beach Pub
Bean There
Beats
BeJeweled
Vicki Berling
Bikini Hut
Bishop Sullivan Catholic High
School
Kenny Bilek
Blow - A-Salon
Bob Harper Photography
Bodywaves
Bonefish Grill
Tyler Brown
Carol Bruce
Rod & Sue Budd
Richard and Arlene Burke
Burton's Grill
The Camper Family
Camp Cody
Camp Silver Beach
Cape Henry Collegiate
Cape Henry Racquet Club
The Capital Group Companies
Charitable Foundation
Captain Jack's Pirate Ship Adventures
Maria Caputi (Mary Kay)
Ryan Carroll
Casone Enterprises
Matthew & Rebecca Chaney
Charles Barker Lexus Virginia
Beach
Dr. Stanley Chickey
Chick Fil A – General Booth
Chipotle - Strawbridge
Christian Bling
Steve Christine
Clark Nexsen
The Cleaning Authority
Cloud 9
Peggy Cobb
Coastal Edge
Coastal Threads
Mike Collins
Shauna Collins
Colonial Shooting Academy
Color Me Mine - Virginia Beach
Conte's Bicycles & Fitness Equipment
Corks Decor
John & Carolanne Cornett
Arden Corum
Leila Crish
Coucoon Signature Salon & Spa
Crazy Good Donuts
The Creative Wedge
Croc's 19th Street Bistro
Dan Ryan for Men
Susan Davis
Laurie Denbenedetto
Maulin Desai
Desroches & Company CPA
Pete & Cheryl Devlin
Dickey's Barbeque Pit
Dick’s Sporting Goods
Sandi Dittig
Dolenick Dentistry
Remick Donato
doTerra
Dough Joe's
Dr. Jones, DDS
Dr. Lucy's, LLC
Dressology
R. Drury
Duck Donuts
Joe Duquette
Edible Arrangements
Edwards Councilor
Either Ore - Strawbridge
Either Ore Jewelers - Hilltop
Elite European Day Spa
Electric
Lance & Michele Enderson
Ethan Allen
Eyzonu Private Investigator
Farm Fresh – Laskin Road
Fat Frogs Bikes – Virginia Beach
Susan Fentress
Mike Fernandez
John Floasin – State Farm
The First Tee Hampton Roads
Herb Finch
Heron Ridge
Flynn & O'Hara
Dan & Diane Foley
Forbes Candies Inc.
The Forrest Gallery
Foundation Art Services
Fresh Eats & Drinks
Fur Frenzy Pet Spa
Shannon Gilmartin, CMT
Gino's Pizzeria
The Golf Club at Lansdowne
Gold Key/PHR
Sandra Gomez
Trisha Goodwin
Barbara Gordon
Pat Gorski
Gran Rodeo Mexican Grill
Great Clips
Great Neck Vet Clinic
Great Wolf Lodge
Bruce & Michelle Grembowitz
Greenwich Kitchen Center
Gymstrada
Gypsy Melange
Hall Honda VB
Greta Hahn
Rodney Hahn
Katie Harp
Carlene Hautanen
Brian & Deana Harrison
Karen Havekost
Traci Heaton
Michelle Hedger
Steve Henkle
Lynn & Norm Hess
Hi Ho Silver
Joan Hilton
The Hitters Warehouse Training
Academy
Martene Hogan
Marcus Holman Photography
Karen Holloway
The Home Depot
Amy Homesley
John D. Hooker & Associates
Christopher Horan
Kathryn Horan
Home Depot - Lynnhaven Parkway
Hooters
Hunt Club Farm
Hurley
Matthew Hurley
Icehouse Restaurant
John Ilnitzki
Inlet Fitness
Inyodo Martial Arts
Jake's Bar-b-que
Janice's Brow Bar
The Janitors
Jennifer Davis Stylist
Jersey Mike's Subs
Jim White Fitness & Nutrition
Studios
JMJ Catholic Books & Articles
Grace Jones
Gerard Jones
Skip & Meg Jones
Ron Josayan
J-Tags Jewelry
Jungle Golf
The Katsias Company
Douglas Kellam
Gary Kennedy
Donna Kinney
Keystone Education
Donna Killen
Klar Vorhees
KM Organizing
Fr. Tim Kuhneman
Jessica Kwiatkowski
Jennifer LaGrange
Cindy Lackore
Stephanie Lavin
Lemon Cabana
The Little Gym
Live Nation/Farm Bureau Live
Mike Lombardo
Lucky Oyster
Tim Price
M. Clarke Designs
Roberta Malone
J.B. Maas
Daniel Maas
Michael Maas
Christina MacFarlane
Ned & Nell Masse
Troy McCollum
R. McDonald
Marian Manor
Massage Envy Spa Virginia Beach
McLean Mortgage
The McGloon Family
The Melting Pot
Meg's Swimwear
Krystal Mignat
Murphy’s Irish Pub
Homer Nearpass
Nelnet Business Solutions Inc.
(FACTS)
Marty Noll
Carol Noona
Norfolk Admirals Hockey
Norfolk Plastic Surgery
Norfolk Tides
Nourish
Nunez Fine Jewelers
Star Connection
Mickey Nye
Star of the Sea Parish
Oakley
Star of the Sea Women’s Group
Obey Clothing
Chris Strickland
Ocean Art, Inc
Patrick Shehan
Ocean Palm
Tessa Schneider
Ocean Tumblers Gymnastics
Mike Stallings
Oceanaire Resort Hotel
Sam Steingold
On Call Holdings
Style Erin
One Hot Tan
Supercuts
One Hour Heating & Air Condition- Superior Executive Transportation
ing
John Sweeney
Onelife Fitness
Tavss Fletcher
One Nation Productions
Tempt Restaurant & Lounge
Optima
Carl and Judy Tewksbury
Outback Steakhouse – Redmill
Third Wave Promotions
Bill Overman
Thirty-one
Palm Tree Mart
Chris Thompson
Roger Panelo
Thrift Store USA
Patty Pearce
Tida Thai
Pearle Vision
Tidal Wheel
Physiotherapy Associates
Tidewater Home Funding
Pigtails and Crewcuts
Tidewater Learning Center
The Pines (Elizabeth City)
Tinto Wine & Cheese
Plow & Hearth
Towne Bank
The Preppy Pooch
Trader Joe's
Price Perkins Larkin
Tropical Smoothie Cafe - StrawProgressive Graphics
bridge
Cory Puckett
Urban Design
Jon Puckett
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 392
Pure Barre
VB Homes
Quality Stone Concepts
VB Surf Sessions
Quicksilver
Virginia Aquarium
Reed Manning
Virginia Beach Eye Center
Frank & Teresa Reyes
Virginia Beach Florist
Tanya Rieger
Virginia Beach School for the Arts
Rockafellers
Virginia Gift Shop
Henry Rodriguez
Virginia High Performance LLC
Rose & Womble
Virginia Museum of Contemporary
The Route 58 Delicatessen
Art
Rudee Tours
Volcom
Chip & Kristi Rudolf
Jack & Katherine Voss
Running Etc
Jonell Walthall
Salacia
Washington Capitals
Salon Vivace
The Water Table
Sample Donor
Waterman's
Sandbox Metropolis Inc
John & Jennifer Watlington
Sandler Center for the Performing
Weis Pediatric Dentistry
Arts
Brittany Wells
Kathy Sargent
Wes Laine Surf Camp
Savage, Sabol & Visser
Jim Whaley
Scentsy - Amy Lu (Independent
Whiskey Kitchen
Consultant)
John W. White, Jr. – State Farm
Schafer Law Group
Louise White
Schakolad
Whole Foods
Vivian Scheidt
Wild Birds Unlimited
Seaside Flags & Gifts
Wink Salon
Sentara Community Health &
John & Wendy Witte
Prevention
Norma Wright
Seth Broudy School of Surf
Yanni's Casual Greek
Kelly & Ryan Sheffer
YMCA
Mike Shermer
Young Chef's Academy
Shore Gallery & Design
Zoe's Kitchen
Shorebreak Pizza & Tap House
Judy Zondorak
Siebert Realty
Carrie Zukosky
Silpada Designs
Andy Zunich
Simple Real Estate Solutions Inc.
Simply Selmas
Sleepy Hole Golf Course
Brenda Smith
Ski World
* Every effort has been made to
The Skinny Dip - Hilltop
accurately list all contributions
The Skinny Dip - Landstown
made through June 30, 2015. Please
Commons
accept our apology in the event of
Dell Slaney
an oversight
Southwest Airlines
Sport Clips
Sprout
Save the Date!
Plan to join us for our 16th Annual Auction Benefit
at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Virginia Beach
on Saturday, April 16, 2016.
Page 6
In Memoriam- Daniel Brown, Class of 1981
Star Connection
The basketball program has lost a piece of history this year with the passing of Coach Dan
Brown. Star of the Sea basketball was so much a part of him that after his years of playing,
he spent seven years on the sidelines cheering his younger siblings’ teams, and an
additional decade coaching. Coach Brown was the face of the Senior Girls’ basketball team
from 1989 through the early 2000’s along with some years coaching at Catholic High
School (now Bishop Sullivan). His passion for the game was felt, seen, and heard, both
during games and practices and he wanted his players to have the same love for the sport he
did. School achievement was just as important to him and it was well known his players had
to have the grades and good attitude in class to get time on the court. He was kind but strict,
demanding yet understanding, a model of good sportsmanship, a thorn in the side of a
referee, and a good man. A total of $425 has been donated to Star of the Sea in his memory.
Thanks to Dan’s sister, Chris Brown Boyce, class of 1990, who contributed this article.
Science Technology Engineering Mathematics (STEM) Team
This year, Star of the Sea Catholic STEM is sending two
teams to compete in the 2015 Norfolk Regional for FIRST
Lego League on November 21, 2015 at Norview High
School in Norfolk. Both teams are busily working on their
projects for this year’s competition. The first team’s project
is Trash Trek which requires students to design and
implement a project that will change the course of materials
which normally land in the landfill or to improve above a
project/system that is already in place.
Star of the Sea Pulsars have chosen to focus on the amount
of laminator waste that is generated here at Star of the Sea
and in schools all over as well as many other office supply
businesses. Their project, Lamination Station, is repurposing laminator waste into one of three projects based
on the size of the piece: 8.5 × 11” sheets for overheads for teachers, Countdown Chains that are re-usable for teachers and
Jellyfish Ornaments which will be marketed at the Santa Sale.
StarBots chose to focus on the amount of paper that is placed in the trash everyday at the school.
This team constructed robot themed collection bins to be placed in one of six zones around the
school. There are 2 to 3 classes per zone. Project Feed Me! launched on October 19th and runs
until November 17th. The team will empty bins weekly, weigh the amount of paper collected and
record the amounts for each zone. Both students and teachers are encouraged to collect and place
papers into the bins. The winner will be announced on November 20th and classes in the winning
zones will receive Dress Down Passes.
The Star of the Sea Middle School Science Bowl Team is off to a great start this year with nine
members representing all grade levels in the Middle School. The team practices during the
Activity Period each week and participates in scrimmages with area Catholic Schools. We will
hopefully be bringing two teams to the South Hampton Roads Catholic Middle School Science
Bowl on January 9, 2016 at Bishop Sullivan High School. We also hope to bring one team to the
Virginia Regional Middle School Science Bowl at Jefferson Lab on March 5, 2016.
Project Feed Me
Collection Bin
Page 7
News Around Campus
FOND FAREWELL
We wish a fond farewell to Dr. Cathryn Whisman, who after
serving as our Principal for seven years, is now the Director of
Religious Education at St. Gregory’s Parish. We wish her all the
best in her new position and thank her for her years of service to
Star of the Sea School.
STUDENT COUNCIL ASSOCIATION
On September 24th, candidates running for Student Council gave
enthusiastic speeches to the 4th through 8th grade student body.
Following the speeches, the students cast their votes and elected
Jack Mayo as SCA President, Chris Brehl as Vice President,
Kaleigh Ritz as Secretary, Tom Smith as Treasurer, Sophia Kuhn
as Commissioner of Religious Affairs, David Dumas as
Commissioner of School Spirit, and Allison Hudome as
Commissioner of Publicity.
Well wishes to Mrs. Kate Brennan, former 3rd grade teacher
who has moved to Chicago and to Mrs. Barbara Wilhelm,
former librarian, and Mrs. Lowery VanBuskirk, Middle School,
who both accepted positions in the Norfolk Public Schools.
In addition to the SCA officers, each class from 4 th through 8th
grade elected class representatives. All were recognized in an
Installation Ceremony held after Mass on October 2 nd. The
WARM WELCOME
th
In addition to our new Principal, we are pleased to welcome some Student Council had their first meeting on October 13 and
shared ideas on how to raise funds to support the school and
other new faces. Mrs. Bobbie Tasber is our new third grade
teacher. Mrs. Tasber grew up in Norfolk and attended St. Pius X outside charities in addition to ideas for fun school activities.
Catholic School. She received her Bachelor’s Degree from
Virginia Wesleyan College and previously taught third grade in
Norfolk.
Ms. Laura Strain joined our middle school and is teaching sixth
grade language arts and social studies, as well as seventh grade
religion and social studies. She is from Virginia Beach and
attended St. Gregory the Great Catholic School and Bishop
Sullivan Catholic High School. She received her Bachelor’s
Degree from Old Dominion University and is currently pursuing
her Master’s Degree at Regent University.
Ms. Christine Fisk is our new Title 1 teacher and Mrs. Lisa
Merrell has joined our Development Office.
DEVELOPMENT EVENTS
Our 11th annual golf tournament was
held Friday, September 25, 2015 at
Heron Ridge in Virginia Beach. Every
single registered player came out on
an “iffy” weather day and had a
wonderful day on the course. We
raised $7,556 for our parish school.
Thank you to all our sponsors and volunteers.
Our “Spirit Nights” for the school year thus far resulted in $367
from Shorebreak Pizza, $350 from Murphy’s Irish Pub, as
well as $85 from the summer crab sale through Luke Mooney,
7th Grade.
Our 5th annual 5K and Mile Fun Run was held on Sunday,
November 8th. New this year were
beautiful race medals. A fabulous time was
had by all with an unbeatable after party at
Murphy’s Irish Pub. Special thanks to the
Mooney Family and to Nancy Morgan and
all our 5K committee members. Our total
race proceeds will be published in our next
newsletter.
We are gearing up for our 16th Annual Benefit Auction to
fittingly be held on the 16th day of April 2016. Our theme is
“Building Sandcastles” so get ready to RAISE your paddles high
for the best school at the beach!!!
ATHLETICS
Our Stars are very excited to be kicking off another year of
Athletics! As we started the year, we began two new programs to
spread our Athletic
program to include even
the youngest of our
athletes. New this year
was the Little Stars
Program in which PreK-3
through Kindergarten
spent two days a week for
a fall season encouraging
their athletic development
to include sports such as Volleyball, Soccer, and Basketball! We
are extremely grateful to Missy Smasal and all the other parent
volunteers that wrangled our Littlest Stars through an incredibly
fun experience!
Our Cross Country program also reached out to encourage the
value and fun of Cross Country by developing a Jr. Cross
Country team that included 1st-3rd Grade! The Jr. Cross Country
Stars rocked the season and showed us some incredible potential
for our future Cross Country seasons. Once again a huge thank
you goes out to all our parent volunteers that ran with the kiddos
and encouraged them to reach for their full Star potential.
Our Competitive Cross Country program had a great season with
personal bests being achieved throughout the season. Coaches
Susannah Uroskie, Kristen Markle, and Anna Huddleston loved
encouraging the runners through a fun season and were so proud
of all of the runners.
HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION (HSA)
The HSA is pleased to report that the Welcome Back Picnic held
on September 18th was a smashing success! Special thanks to
Dana DeAngelo, Lisa Psimas, and Carrie Woolridge for
coordinating all the catering, games, and volunteers, and to Bob
White for his blockbuster DJ skills. The Cherrydale/Yankee
Candle fundraiser, chaired by Karen Loiacono, brought in an
impressive total profit of $11,375. The recent Seton Youth
Shelter’s Fall clothing drive, sponsored by Debbie Giroux, is
estimated to bring in $500. Thanks to all the families for their
participation! Mark your calendar for the live nativity after Carol
Night (December 10th) and the Santa Sale (December 11th).
Star of the Sea Catholic School
309 15th Street
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Considering Year-End
Contributions?
Think McMahon-Parater!
Choose affordable private education in a time-honored tradition
Choose reputable academics integrated with faith values
Choose a safe, structured, disciplined learning environment
Choose engaging after school activities & Catholic sports leagues
McMahon-Parater Scholarship Tax Benefits to
Individuals Subject to Federal Alternative Minimum Tax
Donation Amount
$1,000
$5,000
$10,000
$58
$288
$575
Federal tax savings at 28% rate*
$280
$1,400
$2,800
VA Tax Credit - 65%
$650
$3,250
$6,500
Total Tax Savings
$988
$4,938
$9,875
$13
$63
$125
Tax Savings:
VA Tax Savings at 5.75% rate
Net Cost of Donation
*Pease Limitation, reinstated
January 1, 2013, may impact actual
federal tax savings.
For information on non-AMT taxpayers, businesses, or
stock donations, visit www.sosschool.org or
http://www.richmonddiocese.org/mpfe/ways-togive/scholarships-tax-credits. Your donations can be
designated for Star of the Sea Catholic School.
CHOOSE STAR OF THE SEA
CATHOLIC SCHOOL
Now accepting applications for PreK3 – 8th
grade. For more information and a personal
tour, call (757) 428-8400 or visit our website
at www.sosschool.org.
Financial assistance available.
Catholic Schools Week
Open House
Star of the Sea Catholic School
Sunday, January 31, 2016
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Grades PreK3 — 8
Tour our elementary and middle school
campus
Meet our dedicated students, faculty and
staff
Learn about our traditional, faith-based
education in a Christ-centered
environment