Immaculate Conception Grade School

School Year In Review 2014 • 2015
immaculate
conception
gr a d e s ch o o l
Contents
A Message from Father Tom Paul 4
A Message from Mrs. Cathy Linley 6
School Board Highlights
8
Academic Highlights
10
Faith in Action
14
ICGS Alumni18
Athletic Highlights22
Extracurricular Activities
24
Parents’ Club
26
Did You Know?28
We Are IC!!!30
This year we have chosen to highlight
unique student learning experiences
in our Year in Review Spotlight.
G
abriella’s education at ICGS has been wonderful. It has emphasized
how to be respectful to all adults. She tells me that her teachers talk about
how to be respectful throughout her day and when she goes above and beyond she gets rewarded.
Gabriella also loves that everyone knows her, from Mrs. Linley to Mrs. Bartels and everyone in
between. She really feels loved and loves going to school because of this sense of family. I also found
that she is learning about her faith in a fun way and she comes home to talk about it with me.
Anna Maria Cantrell
ICGS Parent
2
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
OUR Mission
As an educational ministry of Immaculate Conception
Parish, we partner with parents to prepare students
for lives as Catholic leaders. As Christians empowered
by the Holy Spirit, we focus on formation through prayer,
message, concern, and service to community. We teach
students to live a life that embodies these values, is centered in
Christ, and strives for their greatest academic potential. They
will experience a world around them rich in God’s love.
ICGS Class of 2015
FRONT COVER PHOTO: Ms. Kaminsky’s 1st graders
study the tulips in front of the school building
during a science lesson on plant life.
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
3
A MESSAGE FROM
FATHER Tom Paul
Pastor, Immaculate Conception Parish
Dear Friends in Christ,
Immaculate Conception Grade School
has once again had a great year. The story
told in this booklet is meant to give you
a glimpse of what it has been like. Every school day
has been filled with new adventures. Learning has
occurred in many different and exciting ways.
The children of ICGS have greatly benefited
from the Christ- filled environment and nurturing
educational programs. It is always a pleasure to
see so many happy children.
Kindergarten Graduation
In particular, our graduates tell an important part
of this story. Although they had an enthusiasm for
high school, they also left ICGS with a special place
in their hearts for their school. Letters they wrote all
echoed sentiments about keeping a special place for
ICGS with them. The class of 2015 left with a deep
appreciation of their many great memories that were
created here.
Thank you to all who have helped to make this
happen. Our administration, faculty, staff and parents
have all contributed to this success. May Our Lady, the
Immaculate Conception, continue to watch over all of
the IC Community. We are IC!
ICGS Dad, Ray Schiliro and Father Tom at Open House
Sincerely in Christ,
Very Reverend Thomas L. Paul, V.F.
Pastor
Smiles abound at the Preschool 4 Fly Up Ceremony
4
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
This year our ICGS student council sponsored several contests
that were a big hit with students. During the Halloween season, classrooms
competed in a pumpkin decorating contest.
Several awards were presented for submissions in
various categories. The ICGS Fall Pep Rally pitted
students against teachers in a 3-legged race. At
Christmastime, classrooms competed in a door
decorating competition. Even IC Pastor, Father Tom
Paul challenged students early in the school year
to learn the newly appointed classroom saints and
accompanying virtues. During the final week of
school, willing students were tested. At the final
ICGS Friday morning Mass, the 4 winners were
announced and awarded prizes!
Mr. Tyzenhaus and Mrs. Meyer team up
for the 3-legged race at the Fall Pep Rally
The winners of Father Tom’s challenge to name every
classroom’s patron saint and accompanying virtue
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
One of the submissions for the
Halloween pumpkin decorating contest
5
A MESSAGE FROM
MRS Cathy Linley
Principal, Immaculate Conception Grade School
It is amazing that I find
myself here at the close
of another busy school year.
As I sort through items to be reviewed and filed for future
action, I have come across treasures I have collected
throughout just the past month of school. These treasures
are as varied and special as the memories they carry with
them. Each of these items is a unique reflection of the
story of our school year. That story, our story, is one that is
created through the love, dedication, and hard work of so
many individuals that make up our ICGS community.
My collection begins with beautiful images drawn by our
students. These portraits depict individuals they view as
being instrumental in the development of their faith life. I see
images of our ICGS teachers and the families of our students.
These are the everyday role models who share their faith
stories and provide example for our students in their daily
living. As I look at pictures of Pope Francis, diocesan leaders,
and priests in our own Immaculate Conception Parish, I
am reminded of all those who dedicate their entire lives to
the spreading of the Good News. Finally, there are drawings
of the saints and biblical heroes whose stories provide the
heritage of our Catholic faith. The freedom we enjoy as
a community to share our stories and values honestly is a
tremendous gift to our children. As I reflect on all of these
images, it is clear to me that, by teaching our children within
the context of their Catholic faith, they will go out into the
world courageously, with a solid foundation that will serve
them throughout their entire lives.
Next, I relocate a girls’ basketball trophy to our trophy case,
pack away chess sets, and tuck a special pin in my desk
drawer. These are just a few mementos that give me pause
as I ponder the vast talents of our children. I find myself
marveling each year that grade school students can be so
accomplished. They excel in so many areas. Aside from their
studies, our students take part in countless extracurricular
activities and earn recognition in many competitions.
Through the years, we have worked so very hard to offer
6
our students opportunities to participate in athletics,
music, drama, technology, etc. We recognize how vital it
is to educate our children in a broad sense and provide
outlets for their varied interests and talents. The pin I have
carefully tucked away was a gift to me from our Destination
Imagination teams. These teams qualified for and competed
at Global Finals in Knoxville, Tennessee in May. As I hold
this special pin, I am gratified that we are able to offer our
students opportunities to connect with others, even at the
global level. Our service-related activities and fundraising
efforts throughout the year for the children of the Ojibwe
Native American tribe at St. Mary’s Mission School in Red
Lake, Minnesota and various other causes, broaden our
connection to the world around us. Our students’ perspective
of their own place in the world, as it relates to their neighbor,
changes when they experience others firsthand. Their hearts
are changed as well.
As I dismantle my bulletin board, I remove a tack from a
handwritten note. This special note is a prayer, shared with
me by one of my teachers. I remember her excitement as she
carried it into my office. This poem, written by one of her
2nd grade students, William, was titled, “A Path to Christ.”
This poem, not part of any school assignment, was written
on his own after he reflected on his Lenten experiences. The
poem begins, “A path to Christ is in my way. I could follow it
tomorrow or follow it today.” These words, written by a seven
year old reflect the very reason our school exists. Our hope
Mrs. Linley with the “Principal for the Day”
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
is to help our children hear God’s call, learn about Him, talk
to Him, and ultimately choose to follow Him today. We have
the responsibility to help them see God’s presence in their
everyday lives and instill in them the faith that He will walk
beside them as they experience the joys and sorrows of life.
When our children experience this trust in their Creator, they
will carry that trust and faith into the world around them.
They will grow into adults who continue to learn about their
Catholic faith, embrace prayer, participate in the Eucharist,
and serve others. Their immersion in an environment of
Catholic values and culture will serve them forever.
Later, I review purchase orders for new technology programs
that will expand our academic curriculum, iPads to be used
in the primary grades, and painting to be done in several
classrooms over the summer. I am reminded of our continued
commitment to improvement. The truth is that, for our
administration
team, school
board, Parents’
Club, and 1900
Club, there is no
summer break.
We take a few
weeks away
from the school
building as we
continue to
dream, strategize,
and plan for
ICGS. This time
we share with
our families and
friends renews
our courage,
creativity, and
commitment
to continual
improvement. As Anatole France once stated, “To
accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also
dream; not only plan, but also believe.” I am so privileged to
be a part of a vibrant faith community that strives to create
a progressive educational environment for all students. I
am equally honored to be a small part of the Immaculate
Conception Parish dream to create strong, healthy, Catholic
schools that educate children for life.
Finally, I put away an extra Class of 2015 graduation ribbon,
a ribbon like the ones that were presented to our graduates
with great pride and joy in May. These ribbons are symbols
of their growth, not only in academics, but in maturity
and faith. The ICGS graduation ribbons signify readiness
to continue the journey as young Catholic leaders. I love
the following quote by Victor Webster. “Everything we do,
even the slightest thing we do, can have a ripple effect and
repercussions that emanate. If you throw a pebble into the
water on one side of the ocean, it can create a tidal wave
on the other side.” This quote reminds me of a graduation
reflection by one of our 8th graders, Joe. Joe wrote, “IC has
taught me how to connect with others through faith, love,
and friendship. All three of these describe how the school
has treated me the last nine years and I intend on passing all
three of these along wherever I go, whether it is for tomorrow
or if it is for eternity. I will teach those who have not had the
privilege of a Catholic school all of these virtues. I will carry
a little bit of IC wherever I go and whenever I do something
to help others.” Joe’s words demonstrate the maturity and
sense of Catholic leadership we hope to impart to our
students. As we journey toward heaven, empowered by the
Holy Spirit, let us all join Joe in throwing our pebbles into
the water.
Best Regards,
Mrs. Cathy Linley
Principal
By Sadie
By Samuel
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
“Father Belmonte celebrates
Mass” by Mary Bridget
7
SCHOOL BOARD
Highlights
Thank you
for another
wonderful
year at ICGS!
On behalf of the ICGS School
Board, I would like to thank all
the parents, staff, teachers, and
members of the parish community
who volunteer their time to help
our students grow and thrive. The
School Board has concentrated on
making sure that ICGS continues
to foster an environment that will
prepare our children for a lifetime
of leadership and service with
Catholic ideals.
Making Tooth Fairy Door
Hangers in Art Class
We started the year by re-dedicating
all our classrooms to a Patron
Saint as well as an accompanying
virtue. In addition, an area in
each classroom was dedicated to
8
Brian Reagan
with
President, ICGS School Board
to especially thank Michele Janc,
Kitty Conroy, and Moira Papp for
their work and creativity in coming
up with a new, appealing way to
raise funds via the cash raffle. Our
dinner dance, titled, “It’s Your
Lucky Knight,” truly was a relaxed
evening of fun and friendship for
the ICGS community.
Our students have continued
to excel in academic pursuits,
extracurricular activities, athletic
contests, and especially in leading
and participating in activities that
serve members of our parish and
local community.
The ICGS School Board again
conducted a successful Annual
Appeal, a fundraising effort that
provides vital enhancements
to the school environment and
gives our students important
educational opportunities. Our
donors’ generosity has allowed us
to complete work on the Math/
Science/Technology lab as well
as continue the sprucing up and
upgrading of our classrooms. The
Annual Appeal also made the
new security gate on Arthur Street
possible. The Annual Appeal also
continues to support the ICGS
Education Endowment Fund, which
will eventually provide a steady
stream of income, ensuring a strong
future for ICGS.
The ICGS Parents’ Club also
concluded another successful year
of fundraising, particularly with
excellent participation in the
Winter Fundraiser raffle and from
Christmas tree lot sales. I would like
Another accomplishment of
the School Board has been the
utilization of our completed 5 year
ICGS Strategic Plan in assessing
where we are in relation to our
stated goals. In the fall, this
Painting an Egyptian
Mask in Social Studies
Mary, our patroness. Beautiful
new Crucifixes were also blessed
and hung in all of the classrooms.
This project was undertaken with
the aim of giving ICGS a distinct
Catholic identity throughout.
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
2014 • 2015
ICGS SCHOOL
BOARD MEMBERS
David
Wartner
Meg
Sullivan
President Emeritus
Vice President
Mrs. Janet Waring with
Mrs. Cathy Linley
8th grade students
participated in
a presentation
series based
on best-selling
author, Jason
Evert’s coauthored book,
“Theology of the
Body” (middle
school edition).
This curriculum is based on
St. John Paul II’s teaching on the dignity of the human person
and how male and female are created in the image and likeness
of God. This eight week program was presented by Mrs. Janet
Kari
Conkle
Janene
Kuhl
Steve
Meurer
Stacey
Bogumil
Sandra
Ringelstetter
Stephanie
VanEekeren
Waring of St. Isaac Jogues Parish in Hinsdale.
Once again I want to say, “Thank
you” to all of the Parents’ Club
officers, committee chairs,
volunteers, sponsors, athletic
coaches, room parents, and
fundraising participants. The
ICGS School Board values the
time you put in and the talent you
share to make our school such an
exceptional place to learn and grow.
We are very blessed to be part of
such a wonderful community.
We are IC!!
Brian Reagan
planning document will be in print
and will be distributed to all ICGS
families. We have also established
four committees to assist the School
Board with projects and aid in
continued assessment of the ICGS
Strategic Plan.
The 3rd Grade Cast of “The Taming of the Shrew”
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
9
ACADEMIC
Here at Immaculate
Conception Grade School,
we are proud of our
rigorous, faith-based
curriculum. We are
committed to supporting
every one of our students.
Our curriculum is
aligned with both the
Diocese of Joliet and
the State of Illinois
learning standards. Last
year was full of student
accomplishment. The
following standardized
tests and benchmarks
were utilized this year:
Highlights
3rd Grade Pioneer Day
Kindergarten & 1st Grade
1st – 5th Grade
MIllinois
MReading
Snapshot of
Early Literacy (ISEL)
4th – 7th Grade
MNorthwest
Evaluation
Association for Math,
Reading, and Language
Arts (MAP)
Twice per year
MIowa
Test of Basic
Skills (ITBS)
5th Grade
MACRE
Test
7th Grade
MUnited
States Constitution Test
8th Grade
MIllinois
Constitution Test
and High School Placement
and Math Easy
Computer Based Measures
(CBM’s)
Academic Competitions
Illinois Junior Academy
of Science
On March 13th, 18 ICGS 7th
graders competed at the Illinois
Junior Academy of Science
Region II Fair at the University
of St. Francis in Joliet. Our ICGS
7th grade students achieved the
following results:
M8
Gold Awards
M8
Silver Awards
M2
Bronze Awards
M2
“Best in Category” Awards
MNorthwest
Evaluation for Math,
Reading, and Language Arts
(MAP) Twice per year
5th Grade Science Lab
10
MACRE
Test
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
Sara Donovan’s mother with students
days of WWII. Her older brother,
John, enlisted in the Army Air
Corps and served as a B-17
“Flying Fortress” bombardier.
ICGS 8th graders
had the distinct
pleasure of visiting
with Mrs. Ellen
May Smith White,
mother of ICGS
teacher, Mrs. Sara
Donovan.
Mrs. White, a 94-year old
Chicagoan, sat with students in
IC’s Monsignor Plunkett Hall and
shared her recollections of the
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
Mrs. White told students
how, during a flying run over
Brunswick, Germany, her
brother John was hit by flak
in his left eye, face, neck, and
shoulder. Knowing that he
would not survive the return
flight to England, the pilot
had him parachute out of the
B-17. He landed in the tree of a
German farm and was taken as
a Prisoner of War. Mrs. White
explained to students how she
would pray several times each
week at Our Lady of Peace in
Chicago for her brother, not
knowing if he was dead or alive.
She even read the students a
poem she wrote to him while
he was being held.
John was eventually exchanged
for injured German prisoners and
returned to the U.S. Our students
had the opportunity to ask Mrs.
White questions about wartime,
D-Day, the Holocaust, Japanese
internment camps, rationing,
and even the music she enjoyed
in her younger years.
She was accompanied by her
son, Syd White, a Navy veteran
who fought in Vietnam. Syd
was wearing the St. Jude medal
that his own father wore while
serving during the war. When
his father was captured after
bailing out of his plane over the
Baltic Sea, his watch and other
personal effects were taken by
the Germans, but they let him
keep this medal.
11
At the subsequent state
competition on May 1 & 2, more
than 1,000 science projects from
around the state were presented
and judged at Southern Illinois
University in Carbondale.
Our 5 qualifying ICGS 7th
graders achieved the following
excellent results:
M2
Gold Awards
M3
Silver Awards
IC Catholic Prep High School
Math Contest
19 ICGS junior high students
competed against 135 students
from 21 area grade schools.
1 ICGS student finished in the
top 10% and 3 others finished
in the top 20%.
Montini Math Contest
1 of our 4 ICGS students
competing in this contest
achieved an individual 1st place
in the 7th grade category.
Fenwick Speech Contest
ith a new limit placed on the
W
number of students competing
from a single school, ICGS
had 27 students compete in
the areas of Prose, Poetry,
Original Oratory, Declamation,
and Dramatic Performance.
Students from ICGS achieved
the following results:
1st Place:1
2nd Place:2
4th Place:1
5th Place:3
6th Place:1
Honorable Mention: 19
Academic Scholarship
Several of our 8th grade students
were awarded scholarships
including the ICCP Knight
Scholar Award, the Father
MacDonald Council Knights of
Columbus Scholarship, the Kazma
Foundation Award, a Montini
High School Academic Award, a
Nazareth Academy Scholarship
Award, a Fenwick High School
Academic Achievement Award,
as well as the Batten Scholarship,
a full tuition merit scholarship to
Culver Military Academy.
7th Grade Science Fair Projects
12
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
“School”
IC is the name of my school,
Every day that I go, it is cool,
Subjects are fun
The kids learn a ton
We have the best teachers,
…They rule!
Limerick by:
Grace
3rd grade
Mrs. Crowe’s Kindergarteners watch as she releases
the transformed butterflies for which they have cared
ICGS Geography Bee Contestants
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
13
FAITH IN
Action
James 2:17 reminds us
that “faith of itself, if it
does not have work, is dead.”
We place a serious emphasis on our call to
not only learn about our Catholic faith, but to
practice it daily. Throughout the school year,
our student council initiated many fundraising
projects. In addition, various classes, our
athletics program, and even our 1st grade “Daisy”
troop initiated service projects to aid the less
fortunate. These efforts supplement the parishwide volunteer activities in which our students
participate (altar serving, singing, religious
education teaching, etc.). Furthermore, during
the course of the school year, students had
several unique opportunities to learn more about
aspects of their Catholic faith.
Veterans Day Cards for Those at Hines VA Hospital
MFor
Veteran’s Day, students made cards of
thanksgiving and encouragement for veterans at
Hines VA Hospital in Maywood.
MThe
ICGS student council sponsored ICGS’
own “Misericordia Candy Days.” Students
brought to school monetary donations to benefit
Misericordia Heart of Mercy, a community of care
that maximizes potential for persons with mild to
profound developmental disabilities, many of whom
are also physically challenged. The student council
also celebrated World Food Day by selling bracelets
to raise money and awareness for the great number
of people in our world who go to bed hungry each
night. Additionally, they held a bake sale to raise
funds for breast cancer research.
M8th
grade students visited a local assisted
living residence to sing Christmas carols
to its elderly residents.
8th Graders Share Christmas Spirit with the Elderly
14
MDuring
Catholic Schools’ Week, students made
cards for local civic leaders and police and fire
department personnel to thank them for their
service to the Elmhurst community.
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
ICGS participated in the parish’s
fundraising for St. Mary’s Mission School
M5th
grade students initiated a bake sale to benefit
the ASPCA, an organization that works to end the
abuse and neglect of animals.
MStudents
made small sacrifices during Lent and
saved money for St. Mary’s Mission School, a school
offering a preschool through 6th grade Catholic
education for children of the Ojibwe Native
American tribe in Red Lake, Minnesota.
Students prepare to bring up the gifts at weekly Mass
MStudents
created religiously-themed placemats for a
prison retreat being moderated by an IC parishioner.
MStudents
collected Easter candy for children’s
baskets to be distributed by the IC parish Easter
outreach program and also contributed food items
for the parish’s Thanksgiving outreach.
1st Grade All Saints Day Mass
M1st
grade “Daisies” made placemats for IC’s hosting of
Grace Café in March. Grace Café is an ecumenical
mission project designed to provide a free hot meal
to anyone in the community who is hungry, feeling
the pressure of the economy, facing a tight budget,
or is lonely.
MICGS
1900 Club’s Campus Clean Up Day
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
students participated in a used shoe collection
for “Soles 4 Souls,” a not for profit organization
that advances its anti-poverty mission by collecting
15
by 6th grade buddies on a Blessed Mother statue
tour of the IC campus.
M7th
and 8th grade students had the opportunity
to tour several beautiful churches in the City of
Chicago including Our Lady of Sorrows, St. John
Cantius, and Queen of Angels, and learn about
the rich history of the Catholic Church as well as
church architecture in Chicago.
Preschool 3 students decorate Christmas
blankets for the IC food pantry
M5th
new and used shoes and clothes from individuals,
schools, faith-based institutions, civic organizations
and corporate partners. These shoes are distributed
to needy individuals throughout the world. ICGS
contributed 519 pairs of shoes to this cause.
MAt
MPreschoolers,
after learning about the Catholic
ritual of procession, were escorted in procession
graders participated in the Diocese of Joliet’s
“Cathedral Days,” which included a guided tour of
the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus and a walk
through the history of the Diocese of Joliet.
the close of the school year, a group of students
and parents participated in an IC “Campus
Cleanup” day, organized by our own ICGS 1900
Club. This dedicated group cleaned up gardens,
spread mulch, and planted flowers around the parish
grounds in order to beautify our own IC home.
Earlier this year, students had the opportunity to venerate a Relic
of the blood of St. John Paul II. The Servants of the Pierced Hearts of Jesus and Mary, a
diocesan religious institute founded in 1990 in Miami, FL, have undertaken a North and South American pilgrimage
with this Relic and were invited to visit Immaculate Conception Parish. Along with venerating this precious Relic,
students viewed video footage of the beloved Pope’s messages to the world’s youth during his lifetime.
16
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
Deacon Keith Wolfe takes a “selfie”
with students during classroom visits
S tudents had the
opportunity to journey
with Joliet diocesan seminarian,
Mr. Keith Wolfe, as he prepared
to be ordained a transitional
deacon in the Catholic Church.
Students enjoyed Deacon Keith’s favorite
treats, donuts, to celebrate his ordination!
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
Prior to his ordination, Mr. Wolfe travelled
throughout the Holy Land for several months.
Upon his return, he shared his spiritual journey
with our students and presented each one of
them with a blessed Jerusalem cross. A number of
ICGS students attended his ordination. After the
all school Mass following Deacon Keith Wolfe’s
ordination, students enjoyed donuts in their
classrooms to celebrate the occasion. Upon visiting
the classrooms that day, Deacon Keith christened
the school’s new “selfie stick” and took pictures
with the students.
17
ICGS Alumni
The young men and women
who graduate from ICGS
continue to astound us with their
academic achievement in high school,
college, and beyond. Overwhelmingly, our
students return to inform us how the academic
rigor they experienced here at ICGS prepared them
well for the academic challenges that would come.
In addition, time and time again we hear from
Michigan, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Xavier
University, University of Illinois, Indiana University,
DePauw University, University of Oklahoma,
University of Alabama, Creighton University, De
Paul University, Miami University of Ohio, University
of Missouri (Columbia), University of Wisconsin
(Milwaukee), University of Arizona, University of Iowa,
University of Dayton, University of Colorado (Boulder),
University of South Carolina, Saint Louis University,
Dominican University, Loras College, and Saint
Mary’s College among others.
former students how the skills they learned at
Claudia Koch M Class of 2012
ICGS, such as time management, organization,
graduates understand that, in striving to reach
…as awarded the 2015
Carol M. Rogers Scholarship.
This scholarship is awarded to an
IC Catholic Prep junior who has
shown a distinctive commitment
to service and volunteerism, and
is heavily involved in school,
community, and church.
In addition, this student must have a grade point
average of 3.0 or better.
their greatest potential, they are called to serve
Harrison Bell M Class of 2011
those who are less fortunate and bring God’s light
…interviewed by the Chicago Tribune on September
26, 2014 for essentially saving his father’s life during a
heart attack the previous January. Harry’s father, Eric,
a former ICGS Dad and coach, suffered cardiac arrest
in their home and Harry immediately began CPR,
which he had learned in a high school Health class.
He continued chest compressions for six minutes and
then his mother, Brigette, continued them for another
six minutes. Those twelve minutes saved Eric Bell’s life.
Harry and his mother were contacted by the American
Heart Association and asked to testify before the state
legislature about a bill that would require Illinois high
school students to learn CPR and how to operate mobile
defibrillators. That bill has since been signed into a law.
public speaking, and self-discipline gave them
an advantage in high school and college. At
the same time, our students are not only
accomplished individuals in higher education
and in the professional world, they are living
the Gospel message as Christian disciples. Our
to the dark places in our world.
Some of the many accolades achieved by the
members of the ICGS Class of 2011 include:
M2
named National Merit Commended Scholars
M 24
M 1
named Illinois State Scholars
awarded an Evans Scholarship
M1
named Valedictorian and commencement
speaker out of a high school class of 300
Members of the ICGS Class of 2011 will attend
colleges and universities including: Stanford
University, University of Notre Dame, University of
18
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
Megan Sutton M Class of 2008
…an economics major at the University of Michigan
Megan is a founding member of the Phi Gamma Nu
business chapter at the University of Michigan.
Joseph Cozzi M Class of 2012
…was declared the state champion of the Sons of the
American Revolution’s Joseph S. Rumbaugh Historical
Oration Contest. He will compete this summer for the
national championship.
Alex Roth (2003) visited
ICGS on Ash Wednesday
of 2013) was part of the Frosh / Soph eight-person team
that tied for 1st place. The six person Algebra I team
included Dylan Packer and Victor Cadaoas (both Class
of 2014) and earned 2nd place.
ICTM State Final Competition Qualifiers
Evan Czyzycki (2011) & Brendan O’Brien (2012)
Evan Czyzycki M Class of 2011
Brendan O’Brien M Class of 2012
…earned a 1st place in the oral team category at the
Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics Regional
Competition in February 2015. Max Czyzycki (Class
Alex Roth M Class of 2003
…visited ICGS on Ash Wednesday and sat in on both
Mrs. Donovan’s religion class and Mrs. Lidgus’ 3rd grade
reading class. Alex has been teaching 3rd grade in
New York City while earning his Masters at Fordham
University. He is now looking to pursue his Masters in
Divinity at the University of Notre Dame.
ithout the faithW
filled atmosphere
I experienced at ICGS, I
would not be the same
athlete or student that I
am today. The foundation I
of service in the community as
received from a Catholic ICGS
gave me are ones that I will
education has been applicable
truly appreciate forever.
in a variety of ways throughout
my high school career. I have
come to value the importance
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
well as being respectful in the
classroom, on the golf course,
or on the basketball court. The
lessons and countless gifts my
teachers and coaches at ICGS
Megan Backman M Class of 2012
Megan Backman (2012)
19
As I prepare to begin my graduate studies, I cannot help but think back on
all the years of schooling that have brought me to this point, and I have come
to realize that it was my very first schooling experience that has proved most formative for me. I
credit ICGS with instilling in me a life-long curiosity and desire to learn which have allowed me to
thrive in all of my subsequent academic settings. With teachers who cared not only for my academic
development, but also for my spiritual development, ICGS provided me with a safe and positive
environment in which to learn and grow. And for that, I will always be grateful. Shannon Healy M Class of 2007 Undergraduate Teaching Assistant in Cellular and Molecular Biology at University of Michigan.
Accepted into Masters of Public Health program at Columbia University
Eddie Maciejewski M Class of 2011
…was 1 of 12 applicants (from more than 1700)
admitted to the University of Oklahoma’s prestigious
Weitzenhoffer School of Musical Theatre.
Chris Dennis M Class of 2011
…was named an Evans Scholar by the Western Golf
Association and will attend the University of Illinois.
Moira Hillsman M Class of 2012
…travelled to Lourdes, France for ten days to transport
and aid the sick and disabled on pilgrimage to the site
where the Blessed Mother visited St. Bernadette.
Shannon Healy (Class of 2007)
Jack Grogan M Class of 2011
Members of the college-bound ICGS Class of 2011
from left to right: Johnny Mullen, Liam Hipskind, Nicole
Cadaoas, Michael Cahill, and Sam Honeywell
20
…was unanimously voted upon by his high school
varsity basketball teammates and coaches to be
presented the Phil Sloan award, an award given
to the one player that best exemplifies leadership,
selflessness and character.
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
On Friday, January 30th,
Immaculate Conception
Grade School in Elmhurst
closed its celebration of Catholic
Schools Week 2015 with an all school
Mass where the ICGS Distinguished
Graduate Award was presented.
The National Catholic Education Association
established this award in 1991 in order to
highlight people, who as adults, put into practice
the values and ideals they learned in their
Catholic elementary school. This year, Joanna
Marie Lucca, a member of the ICGS Class of
2003 was one of two graduates honored. Upon
graduating from the University of Illinois with a
degree in Psychology, Joanna began working at
the Cristo Rey Network in Chicago. This Jesuit
organization is comprised of 28 quality Catholic
Joanna Lucca (2003) with a child
she befriended in Tacna, Peru
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
college prep high schools for underrepresented
urban teens. While working there, she had the
opportunity to travel to Peru to visit several
schools that are sponsored by Cristo Rey. After
witnessing tremendous poverty on this trip and
after a time of prayer and discernment, Joanna
decided to commit to a year of missionary
work in Tacna, Peru at the Centro Cristo Rey
del Nino y Adolescente, a Jesuit program that
addresses the educational, social service, and
legal needs of more than 500 people each year.
There she taught English, worked at an after
school program, and also made a commitment to
fundraise for this school. After fifteen months in
Tacna, Joanna returned to Elmhurst in December.
She has taken a job with the Cristo Rey Network
in Chicago as an Associate Director of the
Corporate Work Study Program. Earlier during
Catholic Schools Week, Joanna visited ICGS and
talked to students about her work in Peru and
answered their questions.
Distinguished Graduate award winner, Joanna Lucca
visits ICGS to tell students about her work in Peru
21
ATHLETIC
Highlights
Track Team
Girls 7-White Volleyball Team
in SPL Tournament
M1st
3rd Overall at SPL
Championship Meet
M
Varsity
Boys: 2nd at AAA Meet
M
Varsity
Girls: 3rd at AAA Meet
Girls 8-A Volleyball Team
in SPL Conference
M2nd
Football
ICGS-Visitation
Combined
Cross Country
JV Team
MQualified
Varsity Team
for SPL playoffs
and advanced to
championship game
MQualified
Girls 5th Grade Team
M1st in league
Girls 6th Grade Team
M2nd in league
Girls Combined
(5th, 6th, 7th, 8th Grade) Team
M2nd in league
Boys 7th Grade Team
M1st in league
for SPL playoffs
8th Grade A Volleyball Team
Volleyball
Girls 5th Grade White Team
M1st at St. Pius Tournament
Girls 6th Grade A Team
M1st at Ss. Peter & Paul
Tournament and
SPL Conference &
Tournament Champions
Basketball
Girls 6-A Basketball Team
Conference &
Tournament Champions
MSPL
Girls 7th Grade White Team
MSPL Conference &
Tournament Champions
Girls 8th Grade A Team
MSPL Conference &
Tournament Champions
Girls 8th Grade B Team
MSPL Conference &
Tournament Champions
Boys 5-White Basketball Team
in Visitation 5th Grade
Tournament
M1st
Boys 6-A Basketball Team
in St. James Tournament
M1st
5th Grade White Basketball Team
22
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
Another beautiful Sunday for Knights
football at Plunkett Athletic Complex
Athletic Program Highlights:
MIC
Gym Floor Renovation
M
Service
projects to help Elmhurst Food Pantry by
ICGS Football Team and IC / VIS Track Teams
MNew
2014 – 15 Online Registration System
This year the ICGS track program encouraged
families to participate in the Annie Ryan Run in May
6th Grade Volleyball
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
23
EXTR ACURRICULAR
Activities
Through the years, it has
been a priority of the ICGS
administration and the ICGS
Parents’ Club to provide
an array of extracurricular
activities for our students. In
addition to athletics, our students participate in activities
such as Band, Dance Class, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts,
Mass Choir, Drama Club, Talent Show, Student Council,
Yearbook, Chess Club, High School Math Prep, Tech
Club, Destination Imagination, and various academic
competitions. We realize that these activities enhance the
ICGS education and allow the talents and creativity of all
students to shine. In addition, these opportunities also build
the confidence and poise of our children. This year, we have
chosen to highlight our ICGS Talent Show and Mass Choir.
faculty, students, and parents gathered in the IC gymnasium
for this much anticipated showcase. Audience members
were entertained by acts including Irish dance, a musical
outtake from the movie, “Frozen,” piano performances of
music by Debussi and Rhianna, a baton twirling routine,
tap dance numbers, a karate demonstration, and even
a sneak preview of this year’s upcoming ICGS musical,
“Seussical.” In between acts, ICGS student council members
entertained the crowd with comedic bits. They even
performed their own rendition of the “Evolution of Dance,”
a popular YouTube video.
Mass Choir
Every Friday morning throughout the school year our ICGS
community gathers to celebrate Mass in the IC Church.
These Eucharistic celebrations are enhanced by the vocal
talent of our Mass Choir. The dedicated students who make
up this group are led by Ms. Lisa Grisolia, the IC Music
Director, who is also a respected music and voice instructor
in Elmhurst. In addition to singing in the choir, a number of
these students serve as cantors as well.
Father David Mowry makes
an appearance in “Seussical”
Talent Show
Each year, the Student Council hosts a Talent Show
which provides an opportunity for the ICGS community
to witness the various creative interests and abilities of
students. On the afternoon of Wednesday, February 25th,
24
Mass Choir
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
Student Council Officers & Representatives
7th grade girls gather before the
start of junior high Dance Class.
Gold Medal Winning Quartet at
the Solo/Ensemble Band Festival
Father David Mowry blesses ICGS Destination
Imagination teams as they prepare to leave for
DI Globals in Knoxville, Tennessee
e are the proud parents of three daughters who have grown up in the
W
ICGS community. We have watched our children become compassionate, caring young
ladies as their faith grew throughout their grade school years. With the support of the ICGS community,
the girls learned the importance of service and sharing their talents. Academically, they have been able
to accelerate their learning in areas of high competence and compensate in areas where they are more
challenged. All of our girls had opportunities to develop their leadership skills through a variety of activities
including the early participation in school sports, instilling a sense of pride and teamwork. ICGS provided a
great start to our girl’s academic career and helped them develop into leaders in their community.
Dave Wartner M ICGS Dad & President Emeritus of School Board
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
25
Parents’ CLUB
The success of Immaculate
Conception Grade School can
be attributed to the partnership
between our parents and our
administration and faculty.
The volunteer activities of our
ICGS parents this year included
the serving of hot lunch twice
each month, hosting a uniform
exchange, arranging a Halloween
social gathering, organizing an
eight week session of junior high
dance class, running an annual
men’s golf outing, hosting an off-site
winter dinner dance, initiating a
fundraising cash raffle, and serving
as room parents, among many other
activities. A group of ICGS mothers
even initiated an “Explore More
Day,” where parents and community
members were invited to share
their professional experiences
with students. Our Parents’ Club
is unmatched in the creativity,
enthusiasm, and energy they employ
in order to enhance the ICGS
education experience. We could not
be prouder of this partnership and
appreciate the tremendous, multifaceted generosity of our families.
ICGS Mom, Jessica White reads
a Book Fair selection about
“Clifford” to preschoolers
during a visit by the famous pup
his year, in collaboration with
T
Chicago-based Redmoon Theater, the
Parents’ Club Fine Arts Committee initiated
a creative, multi-grade project inspired
initially by the Great Chicago Fire. In looking
at this historical event, students were asked to look at adversity in
their own lives and identify the tools they use to overcome them.
After a brainstorming session in 8th grade, 2 tools were pinpointed…
faith and courage. Over a period of weeks, these themes of
faith and courage were explored in both the written and spoken
word. Then, 5th grade students prepared chalkboards to be used
as a form of expression with Redmoon Theater’s mobile photo
booth. Students were asked to share their experiences of faith
and courage by using the chalkboards in photographs. These
photographs were then curated by students to create a book that
reflects the heart and spirit of our ICGS community. The book will
be showcased on our ICGS website.
26
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
Redmoon Theater Project
ICGS Dad, Tom Gildea visits with students on
“Explore More Day” to talk to students about
his experience as a U.S. Army Reserve JAG
The 1900 Club Golf Outing Committee from left to right:
Rob Sloan, Ray Hill, Tom Dewbray, Troy Phillips,
Father Tom Paul, Father David Mowry, Joe Hughes, and
Fred Bero, gathers before the start of the tournament
ICGS Dads from left to right: Michael Miller,
Mike Farrow, and Steve Hilgart enjoy “It’s Your
Lucky Knight,” ICGS’ winter fundraising event
A total of nearly 1,200 audience members enjoyed three
performances of “Seussical,” the spring musical with a
cast and crew of 85 students
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
27
DID YOU Know?
2 educators from
Immaculate
Conception Grade School
were honored this year
by the Diocese of Joliet
at the Regional Teachers’
Institute, held at Drury Lane in
Oak Brook. Miss Christina Novak
and Mrs. Sara Donovan were
presented with the Core Values
of Catholic Education Faculty
Awards by the Superintendent
of the Joliet Diocese’s Catholic
schools, Reverend John Belmonte,
S.J., Ph.D. This award, given to
only five educators out of a total
of 989 in the diocese, is given to
the teachers who best embody
the core values of Catholic
education, including incorporating
faith into the classroom,
balancing challenging courses
with a nurturing environment,
collaborating with families,
holding each other to a higher
standard, and planning for the
future of Catholic education.
ICGS’ Math Specialist, Ms.
Christina Novak (left) was one
of two teachers recognized by
the Joliet diocese this year
I t was a telling result that
we believe came from the
students’ values and the faith-based
education that our children are
being taught day to day at ICGS. To
see a group of students turn to “faith” all on
their own without guidance from their teacher,
parent, or priest was heartwarming and
reconfirmed our reasoning for a faith-based
education and community at ICGS. Mr. Lewis
(the moderator from Redmoon Theater) was
very impressed, to say the least.
This group of former ICGS Moms, known
as “Chicks with Chain Saws,” was given
an award for their longstanding service
to the ICGS Christmas tree lot
28
Mrs. Jeanne Richardson M ICGS Parent & Fine Arts Chairwoman
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
For the past 18 years,
a group of current and
former ICGS Moms
has worked the ICGS
Christmas tree lot.
This year, the group, known as,
“Chicks with Chain Saws,” was
presented with an achievement
award by the Tree Lot committee.
The members of this group are
Peggy Shipman, JoAnn Porter,
Peg Koch, Shawn Anderson,
Melissa Dronen, and Mary Pierotti.
Peg Koch has also served as the
choreographer for our ICGS play
for many years and Melissa Dronen
is an aide in one of our 1st grade
classes. Thank you, ladies!
City of Elmhurst Exemplary
Youth Service Award winner,
Gabe Remy, with his nominator,
Mrs. Marita Kasley & IC Pastor,
Father Tom Paul
Gabe Remy &
Ryan Kenneally M Class of 2015 were recently
nominated for the Exemplary
Youth Service Award, sponsored by
the Commission on Youth for the
City of Elmhurst. Gabe was
nominated by Mrs. Marita Kasley,
the 1st grade catechist he assists
weekly in the IC Religious
Education program. Gabe has
volunteered in the program for the
past two years, and over time, has
been given increased responsibility.
In her nomination, Mrs. Kasley
emphasized Gabe’s sense of
commitment, arriving early and
staying late each week. She has
been impressed by the way he
interacts with the 1st graders and
looks at the material and activities
from their perspective in order to
assist them. Gabe has also
volunteered for other causes
including “Feed My Starving
Children” and “Soles 4 Souls.”
Ryan was nominated by Mrs.
Janene Kuhl for the quiet and
humble way he serves others in a
myriad of ways. Whether it is
volunteering countless hours at the
ICGS Christmas tree lot, spending
many hours charting plays for the
ICCP football program, altar
serving the early IC Sunday Masses
for years, providing free babysitting
for a prolonged period of time for a
family with a parent recovering
from surgery, serving as a Squire of
the Knights of Columbus, or quietly
shoveling a neighbor’s driveway all
winter just because it’s the right
thing to do, Ryan truly has a
servant’s heart. “But when you do
alms, let not your left hand know
what your right hand is doing.”
(Matthew 6:2-4) We could not be
prouder of these two young men.
6th grade student,
Richie Wilbert at the Joliet
diocese’s Chrism Mass
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
Ryan Kenneally, winner of the
City of Elmhurst Exemplary
Youth Service Award, is pictured
with Mayor, Steve Morley
One of our youngest
ICGS students, Mary Hill
was selected to represent ICGS
at a special diocesan gathering of
“Breakfast with the Bishop.”
Richie Wilbert M Class of 2017 ICGS 6th grade
student, Richie Wilbert had
the honor of being a part of the
presentation of the Oil of the Sick,
the Oil of Catechumens, and the
holy Chrism, which were blessed
by the Bishop during the Chrism
Mass at the Cathedral of St.
Raymond Nonnatus.
ICGS Mom, Tess Hill, had the
pleasure of joining her daughter,
Mary, and Bishop R. Daniel
Conlon for his “Breakfast
with the Bishop”
29
WE ARE IC!
Preschool teacher, Mrs. Jean
Scolaro retired this year after
ten wonderful years of service
Talent Show Participants
The chairwomen of ICGS’ winter fundraiser from
left to right: Kitty Conroy, Michele Janc (Parents’ Club
President), and Moira Papp
These brothers handled
school announcements for
a full week this spring
30
Grandparents’ Day
Sand Table Fun in Preschool 3
Thank you for so many
wonderful years, Mrs. Janet
Wood (3rd grade teacher)!
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL
Mrs. Petry’s class enjoys time outside playing with an unexpected visitor, her dog!
hen we started at ICGS
W
in the fall of 1983, we
had 2 children, ages 1 and 3.
It was time for our 3-year old daughter to start
preschool. ICGS was just opening their preschool
for the first time! Little did I know that it would
be the first of 32 years. Our family grew from
2 children to 8 over a span of 21 years. ICGS is
truly our other home. Each of our 8 children
has been blessed to be able to attend 11 years
there – preschool through 8th grade. Today we
are overwhelmed with gratitude for all of the
priests, principals, teachers, and other families
that we have been blessed to know. It has been
nothing short of a beautiful journey and we thank
the good Lord every day for placing us in such a
wonderful school. God bless you all! May Crowning Mass
School Year in Review 2014 • 2015
Bob & Cathy Platt M ICGS Parents
31
Lower Your
Utility Costs
AUM offers a COMPLETE Utility and Energy
Management solution for the multifamily industry.
Resident
Services
Invoice
Processing
Energy
Management
Advanced
Analytics
To learn more, visit aum-inc.com
One company. One platform. One focus. One team.
American Utility Management, Inc.
The Power of One.
800.418.5393 | aum-inc.com | info.aum-inc.com/blog