Your Vote Counted!

Posted: Wednesday, February 01, 2012

Remember voting umpteen times for Preston in MSG Varsity's Home Field Advantage contest?  Well, your diligence has been rewarded!  Norm, our regional manager from MSG Varsity, stopped by yesterday and presented our video production class with a new monitor and blue-ray player.
See us (and the other winners) here: www.msgvarsityhfa.com/
And why not check out our photos, videos and articles on our msgvarsity.com site: www.msgvarsity.com/brooklyn-bronx/preston
Thanks again for your "Goooo Panther" spirit!

Preston Players Proudly Present “Guys & Dolls”

Posted: Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Thursday, 2/2 - Friday 2/4 at 7:30pm

Preston HS Cheerleading on the Rise

Posted: Friday, January 27, 2012

The Preston HS Cheerleading Team reached new heights this year receiving an invitation to attend the National High School Cheerleading Competition in Orlando, FL in February.For the Preston Cheerleading team, this is an unprecedented milestone, as they are the first team in the school’s history to qualify and attend Nationals.  Preston received their qualifying spot by competing in the UCA Regionals at Hofstra University last April against teams from New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

Head Coach, John Braca, had this to say about his squad, “I think that it’s been a dream that we finally get to experience…nationals. This is my 4^th year coaching at Preston, and I have watched these girls grow into amazing and talented individuals. I’m their biggest supporter and have always believed in them. I am proud to say I coach them.”

All the funds needed for the Preston Cheerleading team to travel to Orlando must be raised and these girls have been hard at work since tryouts last spring. During Christmas time they sold wreaths, they hosted zumba classes, and sought out sponsors to help pay for their trip. Needless to say, the team is excited and eager to get to the tournament. In March the team will also get the chance to defend their title of being Bronx County Champions. 

Preston Mourns Tragic Loss of Margaret (Magie) Donnelly ‘04, PHS Admissions Assoc.

Posted: Thursday, December 22, 2011

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Margaret (Magie) Donnelly, Preston Class of 2004, and an Associate in our Admissions Office since September, 2010, in an automobile accident on December 22nd.  Among the many jobs that she handled with care, sensitivity, compassion and skill were the recruitment of new students and the mentoring of some of our scholarship students.  She was a bright, beautiful and talented young woman and we grieve her loss along with her family and friends. We ask you to join us in praying for the repose of her soul and for the comfort of her family, friends and colleagues.  

The Donnelly family requests that those interested in honoring Magie's life and accomplishments consider a donation to a scholarship fund being established in her memory at Preston High School.  

PHS participates in Cyber Awareness Contest

Posted: Wednesday, November 02, 2011

Preston's Video Production class put together a short for Cyber Awareness Month.  Now we need your VOTE! Click HERE and vote 5 STARS!

Cardboard City Springs Up in Preston’s Backyard

Posted: Saturday, October 22, 2011

Compassion Connection, the PHS social outreach organization, sponsored construction of a Cardboard City on our South Lawn on Saturday, October 22nd. The event was conducted to raise awareness among students of the pervasive problem of homelessness in America and its effects on families and on women and children in particular.

100 Student participants were issued cardboard and duct tape and told to construct a shelter for themselves.  They were also given the opportunity to "work" (pick up trash, sell pretzel snacks, etc.) to earn pennies with which they could "purchase" blankets, food and other necessities.  Bag lunches, made by volunteering, were donated to Lamp Ministries for their ministry to the poor and homeless.  Every hour, the group gathered to listen to Compassion Connection moderators Margaret Damo and Dora Dekajlo provide information about homelessness and to pray a decade of the rosary together. Participants lined up for a lunch of chicken noodle soup and later a hot dog dinner.  In addition to encouraging students to become advocates for the homeless and marginalized, the event netted approximately $200.  This money will be combined with weekly "Food Fest Friday" collections, and donated to Lamp Ministries in the near future.

Preston Celebrates New Science Labs

Posted: Thursday, October 06, 2011

Vote for Preston

Posted: Monday, October 03, 2011

It's started again! Vote for Preston in MSG Varsity's Home Field Advantage Contest by clicking HERE.

Secret Codes (which will magnify your vote 100 times!) can be obtained by watching High School SportsDesk Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7 p.m.

Vote PHS, Vote OFTEN!

National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes 3 Preston students

Posted: Monday, October 03, 2011

Three PHS seniors, Kachael Stocks, Elizabeth Roche, and Sabrina Sims, were honored as a part of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation based on their exemplary performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Stocks and Roche have been named Commended Students in the 2012 National Merit Scholarship Program. They are among approximately 34,000 Commended Students throughout the US who are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise.  Both young women have placed among the top 5% of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2012 competition by taking the 2010 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT).

In addition, Stocks and Sims have been recognized by The National Achievement Scholarship Program. Sims, who was named an "Outstanding Participant," is one of 3,100 students who scored in the top 3% of more than 160,000 Black Americans who took the 2010 PSAT/NMSQT. Stocks has been named one of only 1,600 Semi-Finalists in the National Achievement Scholarship Program based on her performance on the PSAT/NMSQT. As a Semi-Finalist, Stocks has the opportunity to continue in this scholastic competition for an Achievement Scholarship Award. The National Achievement Scholarship Program, also conducted by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, was established to recognize academically promising black students throughout the United States.

The Preston community salutes these talented young women for their excellent academic performance.

Preston Idol coming up!

Posted: Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Preston Soccer Off to Strong Start

Posted: Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Under the new direction of head coach Jack Giannini, the Preston High School Varsity soccer team kicked off the season with a game against Blessed Sacrament on September 12^th. The final score was 9-1 with goals by Madeline Giannini, Mary Connolly, Kitty Lajci, Kristina Reyes, Nicole Kibler and Sabrina D’Ancona. The big win gave the girls the confidence needed to take on their rival, Cardinal Spellman in their next game on September 15^th.

After taking the lead in the first half with a 2-1 lead, with goals scored by freshman Madeline Giannini, PHS continued to power through the game with another goal by senior Kitty Lajci and a strong defense by senior goal keeper Nora Kilkenny. The PHS Panthers have been trying to beat their rivals at Cardinal Spellman for the past three years and came out victorious with a final score of 3-2.

The next day the panthers took on Our Lady of Good Counsel. It proved to be a competitive match and defenders Christine Albin, Sabrina D’Ancona, Brianne Tracy, Nicole Kibler and Danielle Kibler had their work cut out for them. Freshman Madeline Giannini and senior Kitty Lajci scored two goals for the Panthers who ended up tying Good Counsel 2-2.

This sports update was written by PHS seniors Nicole Kibler and Sabrina D’Ancona.

Click here to see what the NY Post wrote about the soccer team!

New classrooms create room for scientific growth

Posted: Monday, September 19, 2011

Nearly 600 young women entered Preston High School this past week to find four brand new state-of-the-art science laboratories. The classrooms, which are part of the new Calder Science and Technology Corridor at Preston, were built over the summer as part of the $2 million renovation project funded by the school’s Capital Campaign.

Science department chairperson Anita Wickremanayake noted, “The new labs help create a more professional atmosphere for the girls. It will really help them feel motivated to learn and grow as students.”

The Calder Science and Technology Corridor will be celebrated at a cocktail reception held at the school on the evening of Thursday, October 6^th. The PHS Board of Trustees will be honoring the following groups at the event: the Louis Calder Foundation; Jay and Theresa Hill ’75 Sheehy who were the campaign’s first donors; and the Keegan family, including Patrick and Marian and their daughters AnnMarie ’74 in memoriam, Patricia ’75, Jeanne Marie ’77 and Eileen ’79, a PHS Legacy family. For more details regarding the event, please contact the school.

Preston Pays Tribute

Posted: Tuesday, September 13, 2011

PHS Welcomes Class of 2015

Posted: Thursday, September 08, 2011

Preston High School welcomed its new members of the Class of 2015 as 154 young women entered the doors to begin their high school careers on September 7th. These young women from various ethnic and spiritual backgrounds come to PHS from over 50 elementary and junior high schools from the Bronx.  Each incoming freshman attended a summer orientation where they learned more about the school and interacted with each other. They will attend a co-curricular fair next week where they will have the opportunity to join any of over 30 extracurricular activities Preston has to offer including Anime Club, Mock Trial, Gospel Choir, and Amnesty International.

Summer Reading 2011

Posted: Thursday, July 07, 2011

Of Special Note to Parents of Preston Students

Posted: Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Preston’s calendar for academic year 2011-12 reflects the following changes:

--The weeklong February break has been eliminated.  The school will still observe the 3-day President’s Holiday weekend from Saturday, February 18 through Monday, February 20. Classes will resume Tuesday, February 21^st.

--The Christmas break will extend from Thursday, December 22 through Monday, January 2^nd.  Classes will resume on Tuesday, January 3^rd.

--The Easter break will extend from Monday, April 2^nd through Sunday, April 15^th.  Classes will resume on Monday, April 16^th.

This redistribution of vacation days will still maintain the number of instructional days, but will perhaps make travel over the Christmas and Easter breaks easier for some families to manage.

Preston HS student wins Fernando Rielo Prize for Youth

Posted: Friday, June 10, 2011

Preston High School Senior Samantha Lindsay was awarded the Fernando Rielo Prize for Youth for a video she created in her Video Production course at PHS. She was honored at a gathering, International Year of Youth, sponsored by The Holy See Mission, held at United Nations Headquarters on June 3^rd.

The Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See Mission, and its co-sponsors, the Path to Peace Foundation, the World Youth Parliament, the Fernando Rielo Foundation, Idente Youth International Association and the Rielo Institute for Integral Development hosted the event in preparation for the United Nations High-level Meeting on Youth and the World Youth Day, which will be held in Madrid in August. The event offered the opportunity for youth to discuss some of the pressing issues facing young people today, specifically the need to protect and promote human life. The prize, a trip to Madrid to attend World Youth Day 2011, was to be awarded for an essay, song or video which expressed the importance of a human life.

Lindsey’s Philosophy teacher, Mr. Craig Youngren, noted, “Samantha had a very precise vision for how the film should be structured and what it should look and sound like. The resulting emotional impact is quite powerful.  I believe Samantha's video successfully relays her motivation behind her research on Cerebral Palsy for her Independent Senior Project (ISP).  Her work merits ‘distinction’ in her graduating class; and she definitely deserves a trip to Spain!”

Click HERE to read article in "Catholic New York."

Vote for NY Post All-City Softball Player of the Year

Posted: Wednesday, June 08, 2011

Senior Laura Montalto is up for the NY Post All-City softball Player of the Year and we need your votes.  Please click here to cast your vote.

Athletes Honored at Preston’s Sports Night

Posted: Saturday, May 28, 2011

PrestonHigh School celebrated their ten sports teams on Thursday, May 19^th, during an awards banquet held in the school’s gymnasium. Each year, a valuable player from Preston’s athletic history is inducted into the Athletic Department Hall of Fame. This year Alexandra Mazza from the class of 2001, a 4 year varsity soccer and softball athlete, was honored at the dinner.

Jamie Skrapits, Preston High School Athletic Director, hosted the event, which honored the teams and gave special recognition to each team’s “Most Outstanding Player,” “Most Improved Player,” and “Coach’s Award.” Skrapits also honored the many scholar-athletes who received First or Second Honors or Commended Achievement for three consecutive quarters.

This year’s winner of the Lou McSwigin Award for displaying “outstanding achievement and commitment to student athletics and sportsmanship” was Laura Montalto. Montalto has played softball and volleyball at PHS for the past four years.

Julia Doyle, member of the former swim team and someone who has singlehandedly served as the Spirit Squad for PHS athletic events, was awarded the Babe Leath Award. This award is for “outstanding commitment to the Preston Sports Program, and for the leadership and spirit exemplified by Babe Leath.”

This year’s winner of the Donald Collins “Heart Award,” an award given to an athlete who is the heart of her team, was Paola Lombardo.  Lombardo is a member of the Varsity Competition cheerleading team.

The final award of the evening, the Donovan Award, is given to Preston’s most dedicated fan in honor of Richard Donovan, father of four PHS daughters and two granddaughters, all alumnae.  Richard attended every game he could during his time with Preston.  The 2011 Donovan Award winner was Robert Rinaldi, grandfather of Krista Rinaldi ‘11, for his regular attendance at PHS sporting events.

One Step Closer to Winning a Mascot

Posted: Friday, May 27, 2011

We won our heat on the Mascot Dash!!!  Stay Tuned for the Championship Round on June 6th!
http://www.msgvarsitymascotdash.com/index.php

Preston’s PSA will be on Dr. Phil… if…

Posted: Friday, May 27, 2011

Preston HS Named a Finalist in National Anti-violence PSA Contest

Posted: Tuesday, May 10, 2011

A team of three students at Preston High School has been named one of only four finalists in the "Let Your Heart Rule" PSA contest sponsored by Break the Cycle and HopeLine from Verizon. The students, Ashley Persaud, Alexa LaMarca and Nicole Sellati, submitted a thirty second Public Service Announcement (PSA) as part of a national competition for high schools to create an educational video on teen dating violence.

In Preston High School’s (PHS) stark video, an abused teen tries to cover up the truth about her relationship. The young women worked on the PSA in their Video Production course at PHS under the guidance of Craig Youngren, instructor of the course.

"We made the deliberate decision to make our video silent in order to send the message that not all teens in abusive relationships speak out and get the help they need,” said Persaud, a 12^th grader at PHS who worked on the PSA.

To view PHS’s entry and to vote for the team’s PSA, visit http://www.letyourheartrule.com/vote between May 10^th and May 16^th. The Grand Prize winner will receive tablets from Verizon and $1,000 for their school, and the winning PSA will air nationally on the Dr. Phil Show.

"One in three teens will experience abuse in a dating relationship and more than two-thirds of them will never report it to anyone," said Marjorie Gilberg, executive director of Break the Cycle. "We're honored to partner with Verizon Wireless to help empower and educate teens on this very important topic, and help put a stop to the cycle of teen dating violence."

"In order for us to end the plague of domestic violence on our society, it’s got to start with our young people," said Dr. Phil McGraw. "It’s vital we teach our teens that it is not acceptable to put your hands on someone in anger. That’s why Break the Cycle, Verizon Wireless and I are making it our top priority to get the Respects WORKS! into schools."

If you or someone you know is a victim of teen dating violence or in immediate crisis, call 911 or the National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline at 1-866-331-9474. To learn more about dating violence and how you can help stop it, visit www.breakthecycle.org.

For other press releases see:

Channel News 12

Break the Cycle

Help Preston win a new mascot!

Posted: Monday, May 02, 2011

Help Preston's Pink Panther win!!
Vote for our Mascot!

http://www.msgvarsitymascotdash.com/vote.php?schoolID=504

Local Spanish Students Score Well

Posted: Monday, April 25, 2011

Congratulations to several world language students from Preston High School who attained national recognition for excellent performance on the 2011 National Spanish Examinations.
 
Students from Preston High School earned a total of nine gold, eleven silver and thirteen bronze medals along with eleven honorable mentions.  “Attaining a medal or honorable mention for any student on the National Spanish Examinations is very prestigious,” said Kevin Cessna-Buscemi, National Director of the Exams, “because the exams are the largest of their kind in the United States with 140,373 students participating in 2011.”

Students from Preston High School have a long history of high achievement on these exams and were taught by Spanish teachers, Sra. Ana Varela and Elizabeth Feroleto. 

The National Spanish Examinations are administered each year in grades 6 through 12, and are sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese.

Congratulations to Preston’s Choir in MSG Varsity’s Talent Show.

Posted: Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Congratulations to Preston's Choir who performed at MSG Varsity's talent show!!!

http://www.msgvarsitytalentshow.com/

Preston HS teachers are lifelong learners

Posted: Friday, April 15, 2011

Preston High School History teachers Jennifer Connolly and Nikolaus Unger have been awarded National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) grants to further their professional development through intensive study in history-related topics over the summer.

Ms. Connolly, an alumna of PHS and an attorney, is in her 7^th year of teaching History, Government, Economics and Law at the school.  She will be attending a week-long courseat UMass Dartmouth that will focus on the national influence of New Bedford, Massachusetts within the 19^th century abolitionist movement, the town’s unique role in the Underground Railroad, the development of its dynamic, prosperous African American community and its maritime history and culture.   The workshop provides teachers with the opportunity to engage in intensive study and discussion of fundamental issues and events in our national past, while providing them with firsthand experiences in the interpretation of significant historical and cultural sites through the use of archival and other primary-source evidence. 

Dr. Unger, a three-year veteran of PHS, teaches Global Studies and American History.  He will spend six weeks at Bard College in Annadale-on-Hudson, NY studying The Political Theory of Hannah Arendt: The Problem of Evil and the Origins of Totalitarianism with fifteen other colleagues from around the country under the direction of noted Arendt scholar, Dr. Kathleen Jones, Professor Emerita of Women's Studies, San Diego State University.

School principal Jane Grendell applauds her faculty’s interest in further study to enhance their knowledge because “their enthusiasm for their subjects is communicated to their students” and because “they model the importance of lifelong learning” for them as well.

The Preston High School Experience Spring Information Session

Posted: Thursday, April 07, 2011

Wednesday, May 4 at 7pm at Preston High School

This event is intended for 6^th and 7^th grade girls and their families who are interested in learning more about becoming a Preston High School student. 

Panel discussion topics will include:

• The process of applying for admission
• What Preston is looking for in a student
• What makes the Preston experience unique
• How to best prepare for the TACHS exam
• Fact vs. Myth: What life is really like in an all-girls Catholic High School

Women’s History Month Celebration with Congressman Joseph Crowley

Posted: Thursday, March 31, 2011

Community members from around the Bronx joined Congressman Joseph Crowley, from the 7^thDistrict of New York, at the New York Botanical Garden as he hosted his annual Women’s History Month Celebration.

Special guest Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice, the first woman in Long Island’s history to be elected district attorney, delivered the keynote address. During the event, Crowley honored two outstanding community leaders, Joanne Cicero of the Bronx and Grace Lawrence of Queens, for their dedication and service to their communities.

“Women’s History Month is a time to recognize and pay tribute to those trailblazers who not only fought for equality, but also progress. It is also the time to thank the many great women leaders who have refused to let these efforts fade, and have instead persevered to further advance the role and rights of women in the United States and around the globe,” said Congressman Crowley. 

The PHS Gospel Choir performed and members of the PHS Drama Club delivered a spoken word tribute during the event.

125th Anniversary of the Sisters of Divine Compassion

Posted: Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Preston High School ‘Sustains’ Competition

Posted: Thursday, March 24, 2011

A ponzi scheme and a strong defense are no match for one of New York City’s top mock trial teams. 

In their tenth mock trial season, Preston High School advanced to the fourth round in the New York State Bar Association’s Statewide High School Mock Trial Tournament.  In the first and second rounds, held at the New York City Criminal Court, PHS defeated St. Agnes School for Boys and The Browning School, both of which are located in Manhattan. Due to their high scores, PHS’s mock trial team bypassed the third round and will advance to the fourth round.

PHS’s mock trial program began in 2001 and was founded by Danielle Visvader, a 1998 PHS graduate and lawyer for New York law firm Abrams Fensterman.  For the last ten years Visvader has instructed PHS students how to successfully compete in the tournament, which runs from November to May. 

Jane Grendell, PHS principal noted that “The Mock Trial experience is so beneficial to our students--participants are able to develop their critical thinking, teamwork and oral presentation skills as they grow in poise and self-confidence. Our girls are lucky to have the benefit of PHS alumna and coach Danielle Visvader's. An experienced attorney, she carves out time from her very busy schedule to instruct them in the fine points of courtroom procedures, research and debate. Even more importantly, Danielle serves as a fine role model of professionalism and dedication for her team.”  

Round 4 was held on Wednesday, March 16, 2011 at 4:45pm at the NYC Criminal Courthouse, 100 Centre Street, New York, NY. PHS did not move on to the Round 5 but the team is very proud of their success in the 2010-2011 season.

Calendar Change on March 17th

Posted: Wednesday, March 16, 2011

This year the Sisters of the Divine Compassion, the religious congregation which sponsors Preston High School, are celebrating the 125^th Anniversary of their founding.  All their ministries have been invited to join in the celebrations surrounding this milestone.  Thus, in addition to our usual participation in the Throgs Neck St. Patrick’s Day parade on Sunday, March 13^th, Preston will be marching in two additional parades: 

Academic Challenge Appearances on the Bronx MSG/Varsity Channel

Posted: Wednesday, March 09, 2011

Music in Our Schools Celebration at Preston

Posted: Tuesday, March 08, 2011

Over the past few years, the instrumental program at Preston High School has nearly tripled in size. There has also been the development of new choirs and events focusing on the musical talents of their students. On March 4^th Joanna Fusco, PHS music teacher, organized the school’s second Music in Our Schools celebration to celebrate what the National Association for Music Education has officially designated as “Music in Our Schools Month” in March. The evening culminated in a variety of performances from student-choreographed dance routines, singing duets and trios to performances by the Wind Ensemble, Step Team, Gospel Choir and A Cappella Choir.

PHS Students Impose Ponytail Tax to Help Others

Posted: Tuesday, March 08, 2011

What started out as a passing thought grew into a school-wide fundraiser at Preston High School during the month of February. Dr. Unger, PHS history teacher, was telling his homeroom a story about a friend who was hat shopping in preparation for chemotherapy when he and his students decided to brainstorm.

“We looked around the room and noticed all of the young women who tie back their hair each day to keep it out of the way and they probably don’t stop to think about how fortunate they are to have hair at all,” says Unger.

The students, PHS seniors, set up a ponytail tax where students donated money, any amount they could afford, to the tax and, in turn, wore a colorful ribbon around their ponytail. The fundraiser, chiefly organized by Benedetta DiBartolo and Kelly Bloom, raised over $200 for The Phoebe H. Stein Child Life Program of The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore Hospital. Unger plans to impose the ponytail tax again next year.

PHS Student Joins National Posse Program

Posted: Monday, March 07, 2011

PHS senior, Sarah Archer-Days, has been selected to join the Dickinson College Posse Foundation cohort, which will grant her a support system for the next four years along with other benefits. Founded in 1989, Posse identifies high school students with extraordinary academic and leadership potential that may be overlooked by traditional college selection processes. Posse extends to these students the opportunity to pursue personal and academic excellence by placing them in supportive, multicultural teams, or Posses, of 10 students. Posse partner colleges and universities, of which there are 39, award Posse Scholars four-year, full-tuition leadership scholarships.

Posse has sites in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and Washington, D.C. This past fall, they opened their seventh site in Miami. Posse seeks students who are leaders in their high schools and communities, committed to their education and demonstrate academic potential, interested in teamwork and diversity, and are positive, motivated, talented, and ambitious young people.

The Posse Program is one of the most comprehensive college access programs in the United States. Posse supports Scholars from their senior year of high school, throughout college and into the workforce.

An excerpt from their website, www.possefoundation.org, reads, “As the United States becomes an increasingly multicultural society, Posse believes that the leaders of this new century should reflect the country’s rich demographic mix. The key to a promising future for our nation rests on the ability of strong leaders from diverse backgrounds to develop consensus solutions to complex social problems.”
 

Bronx Student Selected for National Seminar

Posted: Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Michaela Miraj, a sophomore at Preston High School, leads by example and this is why she has been named a HOBY Ambassador. Miraj has been selected by the PHS faculty to serve as the 2010-2011 Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership Ambassador for exceptional leadership and service. Miraj is in the competitive Preston Scholars Program as well as the National English Honor Society. She is also involved in Compassion Connection, the service club at PHS, where she is helping to organize an upcoming Dance Marathon and Cardboard City, an event to bring homeless awareness to the PHS community. She will attend a HOBY seminar in June.

HOBY is a youth leadership development organization that was founded in 1958. According to HOBY.org, “HOBY’s mission is to provide lifelong leadership development opportunities that empower individuals to achieve their highest potential.” The organization offers seminars throughout the United States, serving local and international high school students.

Bronx Teacher Speaks at 22nd Annual Zora Neale Hurston Festival of the Arts and Humanities

Posted: Monday, February 14, 2011

In January Jennifer Connolly, a PHS History teacher and alum, traveled to Eatonville, FL where she took part in the 22^nd Annual Zora Neale Hurston Festival of the Arts and Humanities (Zora! Festival).

Connolly was one of three guests on the panel named, “Work, Cry, Pray and Sweat: The Influence of Zora Neale Hurston's Life and Work on Current Women's Issues.” The panel was coordinated by former PHS English teacher, Erin Ponton Fiero, a PhD candidate at St. John's University. Connolly presented an academic paper entitled, “The Oversexualization of African American Women and Economics.”

The festival is named in honor of the 20^th century charismatic literary figure, Zora Neale Hurston (1891-1960), the dominant female voice of the Harlem Renaissance. The festival celebrates the historic significance of her hometown, Eatonville (the nation’s oldest incorporated African American municipality), as well as the cultural contributions people of African ancestry have made to the United States and world culture. This year’s theme for the festival was "A Zora Neale Hurston Forum: Womanism, Feminism and Issues of Gender" and the focus was on Zora Neale Hurston and her connection to Haitian culture.

Support Our Athletic Fundraiser

Posted: Friday, February 11, 2011

PRESTON’S ATHLETIC FUND RAISER

ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO THE SPORTS TEAMS

LOTTO CARDS  $20.00 EACH

You pick a 3-digit number.  That number is yours for the entire game—March, April and May.  The N.Y. Lotto Pick 3 number determines the winner at night. {7:35pm, channel 7 with Yolanda Vega}  There are varying amounts of money you can win every night for 3 months {90 chances for $20.}  You receive a LOTTO CARD listing everyday with the winning amounts.  We keep track of everything.  Your number comes in and we mail you your winnings.

TO PARTICIPATE:

1]  Email Athletic Director, Jamie Skrapits @ sportsphs@mac.com

2] Call Jamie @ 718 863-9134 ext. 199

3] Mail a check to Preston for $20 per card/per number

PROVIDE YOUR NAME, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER AND THE NUMBERS THAT YOU WOULD LIKE.  WE WILL MAIL YOU THE LOTTO CARDS.

Heartfelt thank you to all of you who help us run a successful Athletic Program.

PHS Student Volunteers Over 300 Hours at New York Botanical Garden

Posted: Tuesday, February 01, 2011

As she explored her options for her Junior Service Project last year Camille Culbengan, now a 12^th grader at PHS, decided to combine her love for science and children. She began her training in the New York Botanical Garden's Intern Explainer Program.

The Garden's Intern Explainer Program offers a great opportunity for teenagers to learn about plants, develop new skills, and receive personal mentoring and hands-on training. In return, the volunteer donates their time in the Everett Children's Adventure Garden to help facilitate programs and offer assistance to visitors of the world-class institution.

Culbengan, now an Advanced Explainer, decided to continue her service at the Garden even after her community service requirement for PHS was fulfilled. She was recently honored for volunteering over 300 hours of her time since the 2010-2011 school year began.

ONCE UPON A MATTRESS

Posted: Friday, January 21, 2011

The Preston Players proudly present ONCE UPON A MATTRESS.  See the commercial!

Music by Mary Rodgers, lyrics by Marshall Barer, book by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller, and Marshall Barer. ONCE UPON A MATTRESS is presented through special arrangement with R & H Theatricals: www.rnhtheatricals.com.

A Taste of Broadway in Throgs Neck

Posted: Friday, January 14, 2011

 The Preston Players will proudly present their production of Once Upon a Mattress at 7:30 pm on February 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th and at 2pm on Sunday, the 6^th. The performances will take place at Preston High School, located at 2780 Schurz Avenue, and tickets are $15. For more information, call 718-863-9134 ext. 600.

Young Alumnae Breakfast Hosted at PHS

Posted: Friday, January 14, 2011

Preston High School welcomed back alumnae from the graduating classes of 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 last week for the school’s annual Young Alumnae/Senior Class Breakfast. Over 200 young women gathered in PHS’s gym to reconnect with former classmates and to share their post-graduation experiences with PHS’s current senior class.

The event serves as a relaxed environment for alumnae to reminisce about their high school days while bringing their peers up to date on their current lives.  The alumnae also enjoy sharing their post-graduation experiences with the 12^th graders who are in the middle of the college application process. Margaret Damo in the Advancement Office, and an alumna of Preston, organizes the event each year. 

High School Finds More Time for Service

Posted: Tuesday, January 04, 2011

Eleven Preston High School seniors were recently rewarded for demonstrating scholarship, leadership, service and character by joining the ranks of the more than one million students nationwide as part of the National Honor Society. This is the fifth year that seniors at PHS were inducted in early winter rather than the spring so as to allow for more participation in the Monsignor Thomas Preston Chapter of the National Honor Society. On December 14, PHS family, faculty and administrators gathered to celebrate the following seniors and their dedication to scholarship, leadership, service, and character:

Jenna Bagcal, Ann Byrne, Stephanie Diaz, Angelea Epino, Caitlin McElroy, Lisamarie Mercado, Despina Miller, Chelsea Minuche, Fatima Rodriguez, Emily Sexton (Honorary member), and Kamini Singh

Lauren Murphy, NHS President, welcomed the group to the ceremony and Math teacher, Mr. Heebong Choi, shared a reflection on the importance of education and service.

Preston’s chapter of the National Honor Society currently runs an academic tutoring program to serve the academic needs of their peers. They have also organized a school-wide toy drive to benefit victims of domestic violence. 

Young Artists Exhibition Art Show

Posted: Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Preston High School held its 2^nd annual Young Artists Exhibition Art Show and Competition for 7^th and 8^th grade female students who have a passion for art and show budding promise in their artwork.  Teachers and administrators were invited to nominate students by submitting their artwork to the competition. The exhibit, reception and awards ceremony were held on Thursday, December 9^th.

The theme of this year’s Art Show was “Holiday Traditions” and the artwork reflected this theme in various ways, depending on the artist’s interpretation. The entries were judged by Preston High School Fine & Technical Arts teachers including Elisa Groglio, Kristin Larsen, Elizabeth Latona, and Christen Napier, as well as Linda Youngren, Dean of Studies. Local artist and former PHS faculty member, Mary-Jo Castro, was a guest speaker and guest judge. The following students earned awards for their work:

Best in Show: "Christmas in My Eyes" by Brianna Rusciano of MS 101

Best Use of Mixed Media: "Glittering Snow" by Rachel Suazo of St. Clare’s School

Best Pencil Drawing: "Nature's Beauty" by Zakiya Morris of Nativity of Our Blessed Lady School

Originality: "Diwali Greetings" by Durojanie Tajdharry of Holy Family School

Perspective: "Untitled" by Lisa Cao of St. Clare’s School

“At Preston we are really convinced that the Fine Arts are a crucial part of education. There has been much research which shows that studying the Fine Arts helps students to be successful in other disciplines,” said Youngren.

Tons of Compassion from Preston High School Food Drive

Posted: Sunday, November 21, 2010

Compassion Connection, an outreach service club at Preston High School, organized its yearly food collection and the response from the student body was overwhelming to the tune of more than 2 tons of donated food.

This much needed food will be distributed at food pantries and programs serving the marginalized including Loaves & Fishes Pantry in Dover Plains, Grace Church Community Center in White Plains, as well as Mercy Center and Thorpe Family Residence, both in the Bronx.

PHS junior Kelly Simpson, one of the food drive co-chairs, attributed some of this year’s success to the homeroom competition. Each food item is assigned a point value and the homeroom in each grade that brings in the most points wins a group prize.

Simpson commented, “Helping to organize the food drive is one small way that I can help our community during the holidays.”

The Video Production Class created a video commercial

Posted: Thursday, November 04, 2010

Preston's Video Production Class created a video commercial for the Home Field Advantage Contest from MSGVarsity' 

See it on Preston's Youtube page:

and please remember to vote.

New Student Council Takes the Reins

Posted: Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Preston High School’s student body welcomed their new executive boards and officers at the Student Council Induction Ceremony on Friday, October 22^nd. The Executive Board includes Jenna Bagcal (President), Emely Garcia (Vice President), Genessi De Los Santos (Treasurer), Dominique Wilder (Secretary), Taylor Ventrella, Erika Lewis, Francesca Marricco, Khamini Singh, Yizzel Rodriguez, Nia Boles, Samantha Gomez, Sarah Archer Days, Tiffany Meillo, Chelsea Mikell, Nataija Bush, Despina Miller, Swari Patel, Christine Flood, and Shanice Kay. 

National Writing Day Celebrated at Preston

Posted: Tuesday, October 26, 2010

On October 26th, students at Preston High School participated in the 2^nd annual National Day on Writing by contributing to message boards around the school where pens and writing prompts were available. The English department organized the message boards and a majority of PHS students and faculty got involved. 

Please Join Us in Supporting the Fund for Preston High School

Posted: Friday, October 15, 2010

On September 1, Preston High School launched its annual appeal for the Fund for Preston High School campaign. Thank you to our faithful donors whose support we count on every year. And, thank you to those who will give for the first time this year, welcome, to a distinguished group of dedicated supporters of education for young women in the Bronx.

This is the most important fundraising effort of the year. The annual appeal for the Fund for PHS supports excellence in education by providing opportunities for students beyond what is covered by tuition and fees. Gifts to the Fund for PHS enrich all of our programs; academics, the arts, technology, athletics, campus ministry and our financial aid program.

The Fund for PHS is the backbone of our fundraising efforts.  Without generous annual support from parents, alumnae, grandparents, and friends, PHS would not be able to maintain its reputation as one of the Bronx’s top Catholic high schools. 

The key to a successful appeal for the Fund for PHS is a broad base of participation.  Your gift in any amount is vital to ensuring PHS’s bright future.  Together, we can make a difference!  

MSG Varsity focuses on Preston

Posted: Friday, October 01, 2010

MSG Varsity, a multi-platform, high-school initiative launched by Cablevision last fall, selected Preston High School to focus on as part of their High School Journal programming. A film crew and reporter spent two days on the grounds of PHS and interviewed students and staff to find out why PHS is so unique.

The airdate for the episode of HS Journal is Tuesday, October 5, at 7pm on MSG Varsity, channel 14. The program can also be found on the MSG Varsity website, www.msgvarsity.com.

Preston Idol

Posted: Thursday, September 30, 2010

The Parent Association has organized its 3rd annual Preston Idol, a singing showcase with special guest musical and dance appearances. This is an exciting and fun event for students and will be held on Saturday, October 2nd at 7pm. Tickets, purchased in advance, will be $5 for PHS students and $8 for guests. Tickets purchased the night of the show (if available) will be $10. Come and vote for your favorite IDOL!

See the Preston Idol Commercial on our YouTube site!

C-SPAN bus visits Preston

Posted: Wednesday, September 22, 2010

On September 15, 2010 the C-SPAN School Bus visited the Preston High School community on its continuing tour of schools across America. The 45-foot motor coach, a traveling TV production studio and media demonstration center provides students, educators and community leaders with first-hand knowledge of the C-SPAN Networks' 24-hour public affairs programming. C-SPAN’s Digital Buses have been touring the nation for 17 years. This visit was sponsored by Cablevision and MSG Varsity as part of their ongoing commitment to education and public service.

Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, of the 82^nd Assembly District, joined the PHS students, teachers, and C-SPAN staff on the bus and spoke about the 2010 Primary Elections. Benedetto, father of two PHS alumnae, won the Primaries the day before and urged the young women to represent their generation and vote in elections as soon as they are of age.

Yolexis Rodriguez, an 11^th grader at PHS, appreciated the visit and noted, “Politics and government affairs can often seem dry to teenagers. The C-SPAN bus reached our age group with technology and made it exciting.”

 "By sponsoring the C-SPAN School Bus, Cablevision MSG Varsity provided a valuable service to our school," said Dr. NikolausUnger, PHS history teacher. "Through presentations and other events aboard the Bus, our students learned how C-SPAN's unique public affairs programming can be used to enhance learning."
 

“S.M.E.B. Center” is open!

Posted: Tuesday, September 14, 2010

The S.M.E.B. Center is open!  In collaboration with MSGVarsity.com and Tech for Success: A Learning Technology Grant, Preston has created the Sisters’ Media, Editing & Broadcasting Center which will house our first Video Production course this year.

 Look at some photos and help us furnish it by VOTING TODAY:

http://www.theselbycontest.com/entry/84924

Beloved Dr. Peg Morton Passed Away

Posted: Sunday, August 01, 2010

We are deeply saddened by the passing of our esteemed colleague and beloved friend, Dr. Peg F. Morton, who passed away suddenly at her home on July 31, 2010.  Dr. Morton, who taught Religion at Preston for more than two decades, also oversaw the Christian Service program, founded and mentored our wonderful Gospel Choir, and provided the music and song for countless liturgical celebrations at the school. She will be dearly missed by all of us in the Preston community and our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends at this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers contributions to the newly established "Dr. Peg Morton PHS Tuition Assistance Fund" are requested.

(Checks should be made out to "Preston High School" with notation for "Dr. Peg Morton Fund.")

Preston Students Participate in an MSG Varsity Summer Competition

Posted: Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Toni Senior, Stephanie Diaz, and Marissa Brummett are participating in MSG Varsity’s Summer Gallery Competition.

“MSG Varsity's Summer Stars contest recognizes high school students for their efforts in preparing for the upcoming school year. Whether it's training to excel on the field, perfecting an art, or helping the community, [MSG Varsity] contestants' passion can win them a new iPad® or iPod Touch® and earn them the honor of being named a Summer Star.

Summer Stars is also a competition among tri-state high schools. At the end of the contest, the school with the contestants who get the most cumulative votes will win a one-of-a-kind MSG Varsity bash. And there are great prizes for the 2nd and 3rd place schools, too!”

Please support and vote for our students!

Toni Senior: http://msgvarsitysummerstars.com/gallery_profile.php?ID=135

Stephanie Diaz: http://msgvarsitysummerstars.com/gallery_profile.php?ID=130

Marissa Brummett: http://msgvarsitysummerstars.com/gallery_profile.php?ID=178

Preston Hockey Star Makes the Empire State Games

Posted: Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Tiffany Melillo has been working hard on the ice for eight years now, ever since playing Morris Park roller-hockey as a little girl. Her hard work has paid off.  The Preston High School student and resident of Van Nest Avenue just completed her junior year, and come spring she tried out for the challenging Empire State Games.  She made the team on the first attempt.

The Games are held in Buffalo, New York and are known to be the destination for the most talented high school athletes all over the state in a wide array of sports including hockey, archery, swimming, basketball, and more.  “It was rigorous,” Tiffany said of the tryout, “but also kind of nice.” Tiffany actually enjoyed a tryout that other kids have complained is long and grueling.  Not only that, but she also will fill a new position when she plays at the Games.  “I’ve played defense most of my life, but I’ll actually be playing forward for this game. We tried different dynamics out, and for this team I’m better at forward,” she said.

Tiffany’s mother said that this was the ultimate payoff — and well-deserved — for her daughter’s outstanding effort in school and on the ice.  “She’s an officer in National Honors Society, Italian Honors Society, the Metropolitan Club” she said. “With all her activites, between hockey and extracurricular stuff too, we never see her!”  Tiffany is also on the student council, involved in campus ministry, and plays on the volleyball team as well.  “She does everything,” said Sister Laura Donovan, dean of students at Preston. “Everyone here is so proud of her. We made a big deal out of it over the P.A. when she made the team. She was embarrassed, but happy.” Donovan also joked that, “Looking at her, you would never think she plays hockey. She’s the nicest person in the world.”

Tiffany’s coach feels the same, and is not very shocked that she made the team.  “It’s not a surprise at all that she made the Games this year,” said Ashley Trimble, who coached Tiffany for two years on her travel team, the Mamaroneck-Rye Ice Caps. “She has a tremendous work ethic, and she’s very mature. She’s one of those girls no one on the team wants to go up against in practice.”

Tiffany, meanwhile, is trying not to bother feeling nervous about the Games, even though she has heard that talent scouts come to watch the kids compete.  “I’m trying not to think about it, I don’t want it to get me off my game,” she said.  Trimble agreed: “If scouts are there, it’s a bonus, but I think the girls that make it just want to have fun. I try and get their nerves off it a little bit,” she said.  If she does see scouts, Tiffany isn’t sure she would worry so much about impressing them anyway.  “I’m more academic than hockey, so I’d love to go to U Penn,” she said, discussing how her focus really isn’t necessarily on getting recruited to a school for hockey. “But if I would go to Fordham, I would get to play club hockey there, which is cool.”  She’s also looking at Quinnipiac in Connecticut.

Right now, when not working her summer job, she’s practicing. She talked about the challenge of gelling as a team when there’s only a short time provided.  “With the Empire State Games it’s interesting,” she said, “because we only have a month to become a team and get to know each other. Now we’re coming together as a team, and getting excited to go up there.”

Tiffany will head up to Buffalo with the New York City girls ice hockey team on July 23.  Her dad will come watch and support her, as he has for her entire hockey career.  “My dad was my big hockey influece, he encouraged me to work out and work hard,” she said.  Hockey must run in the family. Tiffany’s little brother, a 15-year-old Fordham Prep sophomore, also tried out for the games, but didn’t make it. “He still has a few more years to get really good,” she said.  He’ll hope to be the next Melillo to make the Games.

--

By Daniel Roberts  Bronx Times-Reporter

Preston Traditions Handed Down

Posted: Thursday, June 10, 2010

The 59^th graduating class of Preston High School received their diplomas at the school’s Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, June 5. The ceremony was the culmination of a week filled with celebrations and traditions.

Seniors gathered on Tuesday, June 1, for Senior Class Night where they received yearbooks, were inducted into the school’s Alumnae Association, and viewed a video of the Senior Prom, which was created by Chuck Cormier. Chris Teemsma, Preston Physical Education teacher, spoke to the graduating class about their high school experiences and about their futures. Guest speaker, Sayeeda Ahsanuddin ‘06, who graduated from Harvard in May with a bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience, imparted her own experiences to the graduating class and reminded them of the value of a Preston High School education and the value of friends and family.   

The Preston community gathered at St. Frances de Chantal Church on Thursday, June 3, to celebrate the Class of 2010 Baccalaureate Liturgy where the Seniors offered gifts in honor of their four years at Preston. Fr. Michael Sullivan was the Celebrant for the Mass. 

Families and friends gathered in the backyard at Preston High School on Saturday, June 6, to watch as the graduates received their diplomas and additional awards before tossing their caps into the sky and giving their farewells to faculty and friends. Guests enjoyed speeches from the Valedictorian, Irene Martinez, and Salutatorian, Moleca Mich. Keynote speaker Fran Maturo '64 reminded the graduates to keep forging their own path and reminded them, “From what I know about this class and this school, fulfilling your hopes and dreams is possible for many reasons. It is possible based on what you have been given throughout your high school years by your teachers and your families: knowledge to start you on your chosen path, values to help you become a responsible member of society, and the love and caring needed to grow a good heart that can bring compassion and understanding into this world and continue the traditions learned at Preston.”

Preston Graduates Earn Top Honors

Posted: Thursday, June 10, 2010

Two recent graduates of Preston High School were recently named Robert C. Byrd Scholarship winners for their outstanding academic achievement. Irene Martinez and Moleca Mich earned the prestigious scholarship and joined the group of only 400 other students in the state of New York to earn the honor this year.

Martinez, who was Valedictorian at Preston’s June 5^th Commencement Exercises, will be attending SUNY at Buffalo in the fall and Mich, who served as Salutatorian at the Commencement Exercises, will be attending Northeastern University in Boston.

Artemis Makas ‘07 Honored at Memorial Service

Posted: Thursday, June 10, 2010

On Thursday, June 10^th, members of the Class of 2007 gathered in Preston’s Chapel for a memorial service honoring their classmate Artemis Makas, who passed away suddenly and unexpectedly in March.  They were joined by Artemis’s parents and sister Luisa.  The lovely and moving service was put together through the combined efforts of Sr. Lucille Coldrick, former principal, and Sr. Laura Donovan, current Dean of Students.  Classmates, faculty and family had the opportunity to share their fondest memories of Artemis, followed by a reception on the mansion’s back porch where the reminiscing continued. Artemis was a pre-med major at Hunter College. The Makas family presented the school with an icon of the Madonna and Child, as well as a Guardian Angel statue, in memory of their daughter and sister.

New Director of School Advancement Arrives

Posted: Thursday, June 10, 2010

Preston welcomes Claudia Carthaus as our new Director of School Advancement.  Claudia comes to us with extensive experience in corporate communications, marketing and non-profit fundraising.  Over the summer she is working with Peggy Sobier to learn the ropes and to familiarize herself with the Preston community, the better to get a running start when school reopens in September.   Welcome aboard, Claudia!

Long-time Director of School Advancement Retires

Posted: Thursday, June 10, 2010

Peggy Sobier ’63 is stepping down as Director of School Advancement after 10 years of service to Preston.  Peggy, a former French teacher, came back to her alma mater after serving as Advancement Director for Holy Child Academy in Old Westbury.  Under her tenure, Preston’s Advancement Office has expanded to include a staff of 3, plus a dedicated volunteer alumnae parent, and has undertaken a major Capital Campaign (Today’s Legacy, Tomorrow’s Promise) to fund capital improvements to our facilities, including expansion and renovation of our science laboratories.  Peggy’s decision to retire affords her the opportunity to spend more time with her husband Ray, also retired, and more freedom to visit her grandchildren in California.  Au revoir and merci beaucoup, Peggy!

Students and Teachers Celebrated for Academic Excellence

Posted: Tuesday, June 01, 2010

Preston High School students, faculty, and families were brought together to honor students who have excelled in the classroom. Preston held its annual Honors Convocation on Wednesday, May 26^th and recognized students for their hard work and achievements in each subject area along with those who made Honor Roll, Academic Performance League, and General Excellence.

The award of General Excellence is given to the top student in each grade. This year’s winners are Khrystyna Tsunyak (9^th), Sofia Ahsanuddin (10^th), and Krista Rinaldi (11^th).  The 12^th grade winner will be revealed at the Commencement ceremonies on June 5^th.

Preston Senior and 2010 National Honor Society President, Moleca Mich, and her successor, Lauren Murphy, welcomed the attendees and reminded them to celebrate academic excellence and to take pride in their school successes.

Faculty/Staff Recognition awards were also presented at the Honors Convocation. Margaret Damo and Dora Dekajlo were named the 2010 Distinguished Service Award Recipients for their outreach to those in need as moderators of Preston’s Compassion Connection Club. Jane Grendell, Preston High School Principal, praised these women for their dedication, enthusiasm, creative energies and empathetic concern for people in need. “Thanks to the leadership these women have shown, Compassion Connection has increased its outreach to touch the lives of an increasing number of people throughout the Bronx and beyond.  And also thanks to their outstanding efforts, our students have discovered that compassionate service to others can not only be fulfilling, it can be fun.” said Grendell.

Senior Awarded Scholarship

Posted: Tuesday, June 01, 2010

Senior Angela Sepulveda was awarded a 4-year, full-tuition scholarship by the Posse Foundation. Posse Foundation identifies high school students with extraordinary academic and leadership potential who may be overlooked by traditional college selection processes. Posse extends to these students the opportunity to pursue personal and academic excellence by placing them in supportive, multicultural teams—Posses—of 10 students. Angela looks forward to attending Colby College in the fall.

Class of 2010 Gives Final Presentation

Posted: Tuesday, June 01, 2010

The week of May 24th saw members of the Class of 2010 giving their final oral presentations to faculty members as the culminating piece of their year-long Independent Study Projects (ISP). Each senior was required to work with a faculty mentor to develop a project that allowed them to explore a cross-curricular topic of interest to them. After researching her topic in depth, each student wrote a research paper in consultation with her mentor and then gave an oral presentation to a select audience and received constructive feedback from them. The innovative ISP program was instituted this year to provide seniors with the opportunity to delve more deeply into subjects beyond the basic curriculum that interested them and to help them to polish their research, writing and public speaking skills.