Union Catholic Admissions Blog

Community

2011-06-15T12:53:00.001-04:00

As the 2010-2011 School Year comes to a close I realize how long it has been since I've posted a blog ~ the year seems to have flown by especially since we have been back from Easter Break! Since Easter Union Catholic has come together to celebrate Junior and Senior Proms, May Crowning, held a Meet the Coaches Night and crowned a new Mr UC, hosted a Golf Outing, celebrated multiple Conference, County and State Athletic Titles, selected our new ambassadors and big brothers and sisters, said good-by to the Class of 2011 and hosted a "right of passage" breakfast for our juniors ~ to say it has been busy is to say the least. However, today I'd like to focus on two events that took place that I think give you the essence of who UC is ~ We are a Community!

The Spring Concert ~
The UC Spring concert always has a theme; when I asked Mr. Frio (music director) what the theme was this year, he told me it was Halloween. Wow Halloween in Spring..."outside the box" to say the least. Mr. Frio explained that the students this year were really passionate about the music from that time of year and therefore, Mr. Frio allowed them the freedom to express themselves! To say that is was a fabulous concert would not even begin to convey how much fun it was ~ Here we sat on May 17th with a stage decorated with pumpkins, cobwebs and students decked out in their favorite Halloween costumes. The music was lively, fun and everyone loved it ~ A Community of Creativity!

Relay For Life ~
Union Catholic High School has one of the largest SMAC (Student Movement Against Cancer) groups in the area and The Clark Relay For Life held at Arthur L. Johnson this past weekend tapped into the "UC Community" by using SMAC students to help pull off one of their most successful Relays. Over 100 Union Catholic students came together (even our graduated seniors) to raise money and walk all night in support of finding a cure for cancer. You could see Union Catholic students throughout the school grounds doing everything from walking for their team, face painting, selling luminary and working the food stand. Even a severe thunderstorm and down pour couldn't dampen their enthusiasm! Even though their night was cut short by the storm, the UC Community raised over $15,000 for Cancer Research.....great job kids!!

I think the reason these two events stuck out to me this spring is that it emulated one the Union Catholic Core Values ~ "COMMUNITY"! Whether it is a community of students free enough to express themselves musically or a community raising money for a cause that has touched so many of our lives. As I stood on the track Friday night at Relay ready to do the "Survivors" lap, I felt truly blessed to be there with the UC kids....The theme this year was "More Birthdays" I am happy to say that as a survivor I have celebrated 14 more birthdays ~ not just my birthdays but the birthdays of my five children and now a grandson; so thank you UC Community for being committed to a cause that is so close to my heart!

As I write this blog the last exam has just finished and the school year is officially over for our Union Catholic Community ~ Safe and Healthy Summer Everyone!

Locked In and More

2011-03-14T09:45:00.000-04:00

This has been a busy week at UC, not that all our weeks aren't busy!

The week began with a tag day in celebration of World Language Week which also brought, International Bake Offs, Poster Contests and Carnivale. Carnivale is a celebration much like Fat Tuesday, the day be before Lent begins. Students, faculty and staff gathered in our gymnasium for a beautiful prayer service and the distribution of ashes on Ash Wednesday.

Tuesday, we welcomed the Class of 2015 Scholarship Winners and their families at a reception held in our main foyer. Music was provided by two of our music students, Mark and Tatiana and families were greeted by some of our Emerging Leaders and Student Ambassadors. Mr. & Mrs. Hartnett spoke beautifully about the impact Union Catholic has had on their son Brian who will be heading to Notre Dame next year and their freshman son TJ who is already making his mark at UC. Annie, a junior at UC, also addressed families and shared her experiences in the Distinguished Scholars Program. It was wonderful to feel the energy in the room and to see how excited the Class of 2015 is to be coming to UC!

We were happy to welcome these same students and so many more at the Union Catholic Lock-In on Friday night. Class of 2015 students poured into UC and jumped right into a night of fun, food, games and getting to know all their future classmates!!

Thursday faculty, parents and alumni attended the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick Annual Dinner where Assistant Principal Jim Reagan was presented with the Distinguished Service Award....congratulations Mr. Reagan!!

Saturday we saw the Union Catholic Irish Vikings carrying Ireland's County Banners down the center of Union in the Union County St. Patrick's Day Parade. Thank you to the Parade Committee for the beautiful Irish Viking Sweatshirts!!!

Union Catholic's Emerging Leaders were also busy on Saturday working the first annual St. Bartholomew 5K. Congratulations to St. Bart's on a successful event!

Union Catholic's Track and Field Team spent the weekend at the NY Armony where Nike hosted the indoor National Meet...congratulations UC Track!! Spring sports began this week as well ~ how exciting it was to see so many of the Vikings all out practicing on that beautiful field!

With so much happening....UC is definitely....Where you want to be!!

UC WOWS

2011-02-19T12:01:00.000-05:00

So many exciting things happen on a daily basis here at UC...Sister Percylee calls them her "UC Wows" and this week was an especially exciting week.

All our seniors have been logging all their colleges acceptances and scholarship offers in the guidance office and we are so very proud of each of their accomplishments ~ Notre Dame, Boston College, Villanova, Lehigh, Georgetown...their futures all look so bright. However, we in the admissions office were anxiously awaiting with one of our senior ambassadors for news from his top choice and Thursday he received the news!! He has been appointed to the United States Naval Academy - congratulations Vinnie - we are all so very proud!!

Thursday was also the day that one of our seniors joined the ranks of few by scoring his 1,000 point in a game on the road against RC. A celebratory breakfast with his teammates followed the next day and he has gone on to break the school record of points scored in a high school career ~ Congratulations Bryan!!!

Sunday, baseball coach and long time UC friend, Coach Burns was inducted into the Union County Baseball Hall of Fame ~ Congratulations Coach on all you have done for the UC Community.

And as we approach St. Patrick's Day, we were so excited to hear that this years Leadership in Service Award for the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick is going to Assistant Principal, Jim Reagan ~ Enjoy the dinner Mr. Reagan and thank you for all you have done and continue to do for the students of UC!

As the week wrapped up, our students skyped with Archbishop Meyers, celebrated Black History Month, competed and won individual State Track and Field Titles at the "Bubble" in Toms River. Every day life at UC is anything but ordinary...extraordinary things happen every day! I'll try to keep you up to date! however, it is no reason why.....UC IS WHERE WE WANT TO BE!!

Personality Plus!

2011-02-10T14:50:00.000-05:00

Each new class brings its own personality to the UC Family and the Class of 2015 is no exception. If I had to think of a word that descripes the Class of 2015 it would be perseverance. This winter has made it less than easy to visit their prospective high schools, attend events or even get to registration....yet they did.

They had danced the night away at the Accepted Students Dance, had their questions answered on Q&A Sunday and braved icy conditions to attend registration! Saturday's registration was buzzing with excitement as our newest members greated each other, picked up their Class of 2015 T-shirt (designed by UC Alum and art teacher Becky Venezia Schroppe), bought their UC hoodies and signed up to attend the Class of 2015 Lock-In!!

Why wouldn't they be excited ~ UC will offer them an opportunity to learn in a 21st Century learning environment, help them to grow spiritually and socially, challenge them to give back to their community and have a lot of fun along the way!

The Class of 2015 made it very clear....UC IS WHERE THEY WANT TO BE!

Welcome Home!

2010-09-23T08:54:00.000-04:00

Welcome back to a new school year...it truly is amazing how fast a summer can go!! I'm sure I've mentioned it before, but I do love September. Our building is not the same without all our students here and even though it seems that our building is never really quite even in the summer, it sure was nice to see all those familiar faces, as well as the new ones, coming back to start the new school year.

The Class of 2014 is already making their mark on our UC Family...Freshmen making winning goals on the soccer field, freshmen runners breaking meet records, freshmen volleyball players contributing to wins and emerging leaders already stepping up in leadership roles in our building. The Class of 2014 is a wonderful addition to our community ~ so glad you are here!!

With our new freshman class also comes a lot of new improvements to our facility with the new turf field and track project continuing, the addition of the Shakespeare Garden by our Performing Arts Center and SMART Boards filling the vast majority of our classrooms.
It is no wonder that UC IS WHERE YOU WANT TO BE!

The start of the school year has left our office phones ringing off the hook with inquiries about Open House and Freshman for A Day ~ we look forward to meeting all our Class of 2015 prospective families on either:
Thursday, October 7th 7PM - Fall Open House
Sunday, October 24th 1-3 PM - Fall Into UC Family Fair Open House

Welcome Home UC Community ~ it sure is nice to be back!

Failte ~ Welcome

2010-03-03T16:58:00.001-05:00

Failte ~ Welcome to Foreign Language Week!

Each year the Union Catholic Foreign Language Department takes one week to celebrate the languages and cultures of foreign countries. Each morning this week the UC Community is being greeted on UCTV by students speaking either French, Italian, or Spanish...with the translation following. The Main Lobby is filled with flags from countries all over the world, hallways are lined with posters competing in the the foreign language poster contest, and the Foreign Language Society Induction will be celebrated this evening. But my favorite part about this week has to be the cultural "bake off"! Students are asked to use a recipe from their heritage to bake a dessert and the faculty has the privilege of sampling and voting on the best dessert...I will keep my personal favorite a secret, but am anxious to hear what dessert wins!

As far as my heritage...in my house we are making a lot of soda bread and looking forward to the many parades to celebrate Irish Heritage...Feel free to stop by the Union County St. Patrick's Day Parade in Union on March 13th! Union Catholic has the honor of carrying all of Ireland's County Banners for the parade!!

This Friday opens the Spring Sports season...one of my favorites! Make sure to check the sports schedule and come see a home game on our new turf field!!

UC...WHERE THEY WANT TO BE!

2010-02-18T17:07:00.000-05:00

It was clear...UC IS WHERE THE CLASS OF 2014 WANTS TO BE...even a snow storm couldn't keep them away.

It really has been an exciting month! Acceptance letters were no sooner mailed when the Viking Vault was hopping with the Class of 2014 dancing the night away at the Accepted Students Dance...this is an enthusiastic group!! Members of the Class of 2014 receiving scholarships based on the results of the scholarship exam were welcomed by Sister Percylee at the Principal's Reception, families with last minute questions filled our cafeteria at Q&A Sunday and our new Endowed Scholarship winners were announced.

Then came time for registration...and the snow! So our registration day turned into registration weekend and oh what a weekend it was!! How wonderful it was to see so many of the families we have grown to know through the registration process. The Class of 2014 is here and we are so happy that you have joined UC the family. As the Natasha Bedingfield songs says..."this is where your book begins...your page is still unwritten"

Seasons of UC

2010-01-07T17:29:00.000-05:00

Welcome to 2010!

One of the things that makes UC such a special place is how we celebrate every season of the year. December has to be my favorite time. It seems that the minute we are back from Thanksgiving, the halls are decorated and the UC Christmas Trees are up. Our building is separated into wings and each class year has their own wing for homerooms. I have to say that it was hard to decide who had better decorations this year???The Seniors? or the Juniors? All I can say that was hard not to feel the Christmas spirit as you walked the halls ~ great job!

The first week of December brought the Annual Tree of Lights Celebration and Christmas Concert. What a beautiful way to spend an evening ~ congratulations goes out to all the UC Musicians, the Concert Choir and the Gospel Choir!

The Christmas Semi Formal has to be one of my favorite events and it has been since I was a student here. The Viking Vault (UC's gym) was transformed into a winter wonderland thanks to the student council and help from the UC parents! How beautiful everyone looked. The night flew by as they danced the night away only taking a break for a sit down candle-lit dinner, which was cooked by Mrs. Abel and some alumni parents. Once again, a great time was had by all!!

Another wonderful tradition at Union Catholic is the Christmas Alumni Mass. On our last day of school before Christmas break, we take time to celebrate mass as a community. Union Catholic invites her alumni to come back and celebrate the season by attending an alumni breakfast and mass. This year had the largest turnout ever ~ the balconies of the gym were packed with enthusiastic alums all excited to see each other and to be back!! As I left mass and school that day I couldn't help but feel so very blessed to be a part of such a special community ~ UC is where I want to be!

We all had a wonderful restful break and are now back and ready for the New Year!
The admissions office is busy reading all the applications and getting ready for this Saturday's Scholarship Exam. Make sure you see the Admissions Website for the announcement of the New Endowed Scholarship Program. Endowed Scholarship will be awarded in the areas of: Fine & Performing Arts, Ministry in Faith Community, forensic/Public Speaking, Community Service, Leadership and Character (demonstrates honest, courage and integrity). For more information you may visit www.unioncatholic.org/uconline/scholarship.

Don't forget that UC is open every Thursday for "True Blue" Tours - come and see why "UC IS WHERE YOU WANT TO BE"!!

Discovering UC

2009-11-11T13:42:00.006-05:00

If you have visited our website, then you know that Union Catholic will be hosting "Discover UC Night" on November 17th at 7 PM.

Why "Discover UC"? As I have been giving tours on our new "True Blue Thursdays", I am amazed how many families say to me..."I had no idea UC offered all this"! Sometimes I think UC is the "best kept secret". Families really need to come into our building to see for themselves how exciting our learning environment is ~ let me give you a "brief" summary...

Academics
Through a powerful integration of technology and curriculum - including six learning levels from Advanced Placement to Remedial, classroom SMARTBoards, access to 252,000 scholarly documents in our Online Library, Elmo digital projectors, AirLiner wireless tablets, and much more - we are offering a cutting-edge education that gets exceptional results for our students.

VHS
Union Catholic is also one of a select few New Jersey schools participating in the Viritual High School (VHS) consortium, going beyond the walls of the classroom, allowing students to pursue individual interests.

Center for Success
Offered in partnership with the Union County Educational Services commission, our new Center for Success program uses state-of-the-art assistive technology to provide scheduled support for classified students.

Faith
A faith-based education at Union Catholic anchors young people in God's teachings and instills important values that will sustain them through life. Here at UC, students are invited daily to "Become All God Calls You to Be".

Service/Clubs
Union Catholic students are always looking for ways to make a difference. Whether it is their involvement in SMAC (Student Movement Against Cancer), REACH (Raising Educated Awareness for the Causes of HIV) or participating in the Big Brother/Big Sister Mentoring Program, our students take the opportunity to give back to the local community and to larger causes that touch the lives of the less fortunate.

Being a student at UC means more than experiencing academic excellence in action. Our students learn a lot about themselves by participating in the many clubs and extracurricular opportunities.

Sports
Union Catholic's successful athletic program allows our students to develop their competitive spirits and become winners beyond the classroom. As our principal, Sister Percylee, said at the groundbreaking of the new state-of-the-art turf field "the construction of this athletic facility is a momentous event for us at Union Catholic. It brings new life and energy to our mission of helping students grow both in the classroom and on the field of play".

The Arts
Union Catholic students are encouraged to sing, dance, act, paint, design and perform. UC's expansive fine arts programs inspires students to explore their talents and individual gifts!

As a side note, members of the UCPAC will be performing the original play "Love Awkwardly" at the Manhattan Theatre Source at Washington Square Park, NYC on November 15, 16, & 17th. More on this to follow in the next blog!

This has been a long post, but hopefully it has given you a very small glimpse of all that is available to students here at UC.

"UC THIS IS WHERE YOU WANT TO BE"

If you would like to come see for yourself....give us a call!!
908.889.1600, ext 302 or bthornton@unioncatholic.org

Inspiration!

2009-09-17T18:08:00.006-04:00

The thing I like most about September is that it is a "fresh start". It reminds me of New Year's Day. It is a time to think about how the school year is going to be.

Each year the Peer Ministry Team picks a theme for the school year ~ this year the theme is "Inspiration". As I look around our building, I realize that this is an easy place to find inspiration. Teachers inspire students everyday to learn as 21st Century Learners with a progressive approach to teaching. Students inspire faculty as we learn of all the summer travel, accomplishments and service projects. Buses arriving, friends greeting each other after a long summer everyone checking how many classes and lunches they have together. Shining floors and windows and a new turf field...Yes can you believe it...Union Catholic has a new "state of the art" turf field under construction...check the front page of our website for a link to the photos and watch the turf field develop for yourself - very exciting!

Yes, I have a feeling that Inspiration will be a fitting theme for this year. I promise to fill you in on all the inspirational things that happen here at UC - or maybe you should just come see for yourself!!

Open House - October 8th 7PM
Call for more information...908.889.1600, ext. 302

Farewell ’09 ~ Welcome ‘13

2009-06-04T13:58:00.006-04:00

It has been so long since I’ve blogged but not because there hasn’t been anything to write about! It seems that in the “UC Community” there are special moments every day; events and memories that will last long after we leave the halls of UC.

Since the lock-in (my last post), UC students have marched in the Union County St. Patrick’s Day Parade, put on an amazing spring musical (congratulations on the Rising Star Nominations for the lobby display), participated in Career Day, attended pep rallies, hosted grammar school teachers and principals at a “Roundtable Dinner”, congratulated athletes for all their accomplishments at an athletic dinner (especially the track team for running at Penn Relays), crowned a new Mr. UC, hosted 7th grade students at the annual Anti-bullying Workshop, helped the admissions office host a very successful Spring Open House, took their Physics final at Great Adventure and enjoyed ice cream sundaes after their academic awards night. They have raised over $120,000 for the fight against and cancer and walked in the Relay for Life in Scotch Plains. They have attended their junior or senior prom and the funeral of a beloved guidance counselor.

These events fill our calendars and our days blend into months which blend into the end of another school year. It is so very hard to believe that the Class of 2009 has graduated, the Class of 2010 has inherited the courtyard, the Class of 2011 has ordered their class rings and UC "Big Brother and Sisters" are busy planning to welcome the Class of 2013 at their BBQ on June 17th.

This afternoon several of us were commenting on how quiet the building is without the Class of 2009. Each class brings a unique personality to our building and the Class of 2009 was no different. They leave UC having earned over 14 million dollars in scholarships and they leave having earned numerous awards academically and athletically. They leave UC with the memories of first loves, first victories and first defeats. They leave having made life-long friends and having learned life lessons both in and out of the classroom. They have grown up here at UC; grown into young men and women ready to take on the next phase of their life journey and leave their Alma mater behind. What does Alma Mater mean? It means “Our Mother” ~ so Class of 2009, your Alma Mater…your mother…will never forget you and will always welcome you home!

God Speed Class of 2009

Next blog…update on the Class of 2013 BBQ and Big Brother/Big Sister Roller Skating Event!!

The Golden Class - 2013

2009-02-12T11:05:00.004-05:00

Welcome Class of 2013 - Union Catholic's Golden Class!!

Yes, you are the Golden Class...why??? Union Catholic High School will celebrate its 50th anniversary the year you graduate high school. What a great time in UC's history to start high school. Four years filled with celebration and anticipation of our school's golden anniversary - one more reason why "UC Is The Place To Be"!!

Congratulations on choosing a high school that will help you grow as a person, achieve your goals, to be successful in ways you never knew possible and to manage to have fun along the way!

Speaking of fun ~ don't forget to register for the Class of 2013 Lock-In on March 13th!! Our "big brothers and big sisters" are anxious to see you, especially after meeting so many of you at the accepted students dance! We'll have lots of games, food and fun!! Feel free to e-mail Mr. Luciano and let him know you are coming dluciano@unioncatholic.org

As you finish your 8th grade year know that we are already preparing to have you here as a part of the UC Community ~ we can't wait for you to get here!

Class of 2013 - as Natasha Bedingfield says in her song Unwritten "Today is where your book begins...the rest is still unwritten"

UC ~ Something Beautiful

2008-11-24T14:12:00.002-05:00

I think I have gotten so caught up in all the amazing things happening on a daily basis here at UC that I have neglected to blog!

Since my last blog our days have been filled with excited 8th graders visiting as "freshmen for a day". ~ Word is out ~ "UC IS THE PLACE TO BE".

This years fall pep rally felt a new energy as the DJ rocked the Viking Vault. You couldn't help but feel the excitement as our fall athletes were introduced! The pep rally must have done the trick because the fall season finished strong with the volleyball team winning conference and county titles finishing 2nd in the state and one of our cross country runners winning the conference and county title as well as placing 3rd in the state qualifying for the Meet of Champions to name just a few!

Athletics was not the only area celebrating this fall! The Fall Play "Incorruptible" was a huge hit with brand new talent shining on stage. UC's Peer Ministry Team held wonderful Days of Recollections for both students and faculty and a Mock Election predicted our next president on Channel 12 News! Two honor roll breakfasts were held to recognize 1st marking period accomplishments and UC welcomed a record number of students to take the COOP Exam on November 7th.

This morning,at the Freshmen Assembly, Sister Percylee congratulated the Class of 2012 on their many accomplishments both academically and athletically this fall. To celebrate all these many accomplishments, Sister gave the UC Community off the day before Thanksgiving ~ Thank You Sister Percylee!

After the assembly I attended a meeting where I was asked to pick a "shining moment" at UC this year. It was hard, there have been so very many shining moments already and it's only November. So I thought about it and I have to say that truly shining moments happen everyday. The song we used on our new DVD is "Something Beautiful" by the Newsboys ~ well, "Something Beautiful" happens everyday, whether in the classroom, in clubs, or on the athletic fields ~ the extraordinary shining moments happen in the beautiful events of everyday life at UC!

UC is hosting a new event this year ~ "Discovery Day" on December 12th from 8:45 am to 11:45 am. This unique event will allow families to visit our classrooms while in session! Seats are liminted, so a RSVP is necessary!

COME AND SEE FOR YOURSELF WHY UNION CATHOLIC IS "THE BEST KEPT SECRET"!

A NEW BEGINNING

2008-10-03T11:13:00.005-04:00

UC held Open House last night and WOW, what an enthusiastic crowd!
Families were so anxious to get started that our UC Ambassadors began the "early bird" tours a 1/2 hour early!

Our standing room only crowd cheered as the UC Viking escorted Principal Sister Percylee on stage to address our families. In Sister's welcome she let our prospective students know what our current freshmen had to say when asked "If you could use one word or phrase to describe your first month at UC, what would it be"? They used words and phrases like; cool, the best, amazing, feels like family, exciting, fun, incredible, something to look forward to. The list goes on and on! It was wonderful to hear that the Class of 2012 knows that they are already of vital part of the UC family!

The Open House DVD presentation was entitled "A New Beginning" ~ each 8th grade student has the opportunity to choose their new beginning ~ A New Beginning at UC will include an academic program that includes six learning levels, an anytime anywhere laptop learning environment, a Virtual High School Program, athletics, clubs, and so much more! Come for Freshman for a day and see for yourself!

How will you look in Blue & White!!!

WELCOME BACK UC!

2008-09-18T13:24:00.004-04:00

Even though summers at Union Catholic are never really quiet, there is nothing like the first month of school... the building is sparkling, our summer projects complete, and our students are back. The building is back to how it should be, filled with students happy to see each other after their summer off.

The environment this year seemed to be especially electric! As each class came in for orientation, their excitement over the improvements spread. You could hear them talking in the halls…”Have you seen the new Tradition Meets Tomorrow Hallway? It’s fabulous!” “How about the new physics lab and new bathrooms??” UC students take great pride in their campus and it shows with how proud they are each time an improvement is made.

UC students aren’t just proud of their campus, but their sports teams as well! What a great way to start the fall season with big wins in soccer and cross country not to mention the freshman, JV and Varsity volleyball wins at RC – the Blue Crew, with painted faces and chests cheered their teams to victory!

If you’d like to meet some of the UC faculty, coaches, athletes, students and yes…The Blue Crew…then stop by our Open House on October 2^nd at 7PM. Can you see yourself in Blue & White?? Register for the UC open house at http://www.ucevents.org/. and receive a free Blue & White UC t-shirt the night of open house.

BTW…I happen to be at the Varsity Volleyball game and couldn’t help but get caught up in the “blue & white” spirit so I’ve included a short clip of the winning volley!

ALUM VIEWPOINT

2008-07-22T14:25:00.002-04:00

I happen to be talking with one of our alums from the Class of 2004. He's just graduated from a college in Virginia and was sharing with me his many memories of his last four years and how it felt to be back. He was on his way to a BBQ with his former UC classmates so I asked him if he would write a quick note that I could post on my blogspot, so here you go....

Alum Viewpoint

I am a Union Catholic Alum and I graduated with the Class of 2004. It seems so long ago but the memories are still very clear. I received an amazing education at UC that prepared me for college. I was highly involved at UC with Student Council, Performing Arts, the Irish Vikings and Cross Country. UC was not just a place for academics. There were so many clubs, organizations and sports that everyone could get involved in. The school was full of school spirit and I still feel that spirit when I go back for any of the sport games. When I entered college I wanted a similar experience to that of UC, because I loved it so much, and I found it.

I have also maintained life-long friends from Union Catholic. Ever since my graduation from UC four years ago my friends and I have done our best to stay in contact. Even though we all went to different schools we stayed in touch and made sure we saw each other when we were home. One of my favorite traditions that we started was the annual Thanksgiving dinner. We have been doing this for 4 straight years and I can't wait for next year! It's just a big pot-luck dinner and we can all catch up(all 20 of us)! My friends and I still see each other a lot. They even came down to visit me in Virginia where I went to college! I have gained life-long friends at UC and we continue to keep those friendships even after college.

It is crazy to think how fast high school and college have gone by. But it is fun to see where the journey will take us! Some of my friends are going back to school while others are in the working world. Some are teachers, engineers, or working in advertising. Union Catholic has made the possibilities endless for me and all of my friends and that is the same for anyone who walks into those doors. It is a place of great education and life-long friendships.

Eddy '04

What memories and friendships will you take away from your high school experience???
Where will your future take you...

An Extraordinary Future begins with an Exceptional Education!

save the date:

OPEN HOUSE, THURSDAY OCTOBER 2ND @ 7PM

COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES!

2008-06-09T09:19:00.002-04:00

“We could all learn a lesson from crayons…Some are sharp, some are pretty, some are dull, some have weird names, all are different colors, but they all learned to live together in the same box”

This quote is from the Union Catholic 2008 Yearbook whose theme was “Color Outside the Lines”. What a wonderful message to all of us…yes we are all different. All unique and yet, we all live together in this community called Union Catholic.

Union Catholic encourages students to “show their true colors”. To be able to show their unique talent, ability or gifts and let them grow and flourish.

It is fun to flip through the yearbook to see all the smiling faces and remember all the fond memories of a school year, but it is even better when the message of the yearbook is so appropriate…Don’t be afraid to be yourself ~ let your true colors shine through.

The Class of 2008 attended their graduation on May 31^st ~ their true colors shown through as awards and accomplishments were acknowledged and tributes were made to a classmate who lost his battle with cancer. This class has left their mark on UC, we are better because they were here.

Visit our homepage www.unioncatholic.org for a photo slideshow of Graduation….Class of 2008 ~ you will be missed!

SENIOR PROM

2008-05-22T13:20:00.003-04:00

The anticipated senior prom ~ beautiful gowns, tuxes, flowers and limos. I had the privilege of being able to attend one of the pre-prom gatherings. The girls looked stunning, the boys looked sharp and parents were snapping pictures.

Looking at them huddling together for pictures I realized that they have grown up before our eyes. From nervous freshmen to “silly sophomores”; from a ring ceremony to the college search, how fast it has gone, how sophisticated they looked ~ how quickly they became friends; no, maybe family is a better word.

As incoming freshmen, you may be nervous about high school. You worry about leaving friends behind. You probably feel much like our seniors as they get ready to leave the friends they have made here at UC. In their four years of high school they have grown academically, spiritually and socially. They are now ready for the new challenges that await them; and they will carry with them the memories of nights like their senior prom; a night of celebrating friendship.

So a message to all my incoming freshmen ~ I know that this is a bittersweet time for you and I am sure that you may be nervous about what your future holds. With eighth grade almost behind you and September around the corner, we want you to know that we can't wait for you to get here!

“At UC ~ The Best Is Yet To Be”

Looking forward to seeing you at the Class of 2012 BBQ on June 19^th ~ don’t forget to RSVP bthornton@unioncatholic.org.

Here is a peek at some of our seniors as they headed of to the Crystal Plaza in Livingston. A good time was had by all!

OPEN HOUSE ~A GREAT PLACE TO BE!

2008-05-07T13:24:00.006-04:00

I could not believe I was turning the calendar to May, where did April go??

It seemed that the month was filled with an event a day. Career Day, Golf Outing, Anti-bullying Workshop (held for 7^th graders), Mr. UC (mentioned in a previous blog), The Senior Leadership Luncheon, The Class of 2012 Lock-In, Sophomore Olympics, Youth Rally for Pope Benedict, Honor Roll Breakfast, Open House, the Spring Concert and the Hall of Fame Dinner….phew…hard to catch your breath.

Even though the month was filled with so many amazing highlights I thought I’d write about the Open House, after all this is an admission blog!

Our Spring Open House is held for 6^th & 7^th grade students looking to get a “head start” on the high school search as well as students looking to transfer. This is generally a smaller Open House, so you can imagine our surprise when the families kept pouring in! How nice it was to meet so many prospective families…the future of UC. The night was buzzing with tours, academic presentations, student panels and more. You could feel it in the air - "UC Is The Place to Be"

Sum up the night? I believe I would use the word “Dedication”. Dedicated parents eager to find the “best school”, dedicated seniors willing to give up a night off to show prospective families how their talents have been fostered at UC, dedicated teachers willing to take time to share with families how their children will develop academically, a dedicated Alum willing to come back for the night to share what UC has meant to her, and dedicated UC students coming off the playing fields to hold student panels.

As I was thinking about the evening I realized that the dedication that was evident at Open House runs through the very “being” of Union Catholic. UC teachers coming in early to tutor students, Mrs. McKenna staying late to make sure every college application is sent out of guidance on time, the “ladies of Room 114” helping students through the challenges of high school friendships, parents helping organize and chaperoning the Relay for Life and Sister Percylee stopping students in the hall to see how the latest track meet, game or test went. Union Catholic is a community filled with dedicated people who really just care about each other ~ what a great place to be!

I'm attaching a video of the UC musicians who came to play at Open House ~ this was just a small taste ~ the Concert was amazing!!

MR. UC

2008-04-18T14:36:00.003-04:00

With Mr. Luciano as the MC, the fourth annual Mr. UC Contest took place on Wednesday evening, April 16th. Eight seniors competed for the Viking Crown and the prestige of knowing that they could be the next "Mr. Union Catholic".

Words really cannot describe the evening that began with our eight contestants doing a dance to "I Will Survive" which was followed by their casual wear, talent and formal wear. Who would have thought that one of the basketball team's leading scorers would do an interpretive dance to the Lion King or that the captain of the baseball team plays in a pipes and drum band; who thought that the UC technology guru of Room 115 was a stand up comic? But even if all those talents were impressive,it was Kevin who won out...his "UC Song" done to the tune of Billy Joel's Piano Man stole the show. An auditorium full of screaming fans casts their votes for this year's Mr. UC ~ Kevin Cascone! Congratulations Kevin and as you leave us to become a St. Joe's Hawk, remember that you will always be a Viking!

Now you may ask yourself, what does a Mr. UC contest have to do with admissions? I like to give all prospective families a sense of the school spirit that is here within the walls of Union Catholic. At Open Houses or Information Sessions you can learn all about the academic offerings, the virtual high school, our athletic programs and clubs. What you can't always see at these events is the spirit of the school...our students. The Mr. UC contest is one of my favorite events. Senior boys comfortable enough to be themselves and have fun and a supportive student body that comes out to support them.

WHERE TO GO TO HIGH SCHOOL

2008-04-16T09:54:00.004-04:00

Last night Union Catholic attended the High School Expo at St. John the Apostle School in Clark where myself and some of the UC ambassadors had an opportunity to talk with families beginning the high school search. Parents, along with their 6th or 7th graders collected information from all the high schools in attendance, many feeling overwhelmed with the process. Should they choose a coed school, a single sex school, when is the test, what sports do you offer, what clubs???? The questions kept flowing.

Watching the excitement of these students is one of the things I love about my job! I love meeting and talking with families about all that Union Catholic has to offer. It also reminded me of a process we just completed with our son Jim. The college search! Very similar, very overwhelming. What is the right fit? Where did he see himself for the next four years from both an academic and social point of view. After a long search, he made his decision...the University of Mary Washington in Virginia.

Like college, each high school has something unique to offer! My advice...visit each one. Not just at Open Houses, but come for "freshman for a day". Walk the halls of the schools you are looking at. When you spend the day as a student, you will know whether or not that school is right for you.

I'm including a video from our "accepted students day" at Mary Washington. Four years ago Jim made the choice to attend Union Catholic. And yes, he did have a choice even though his mom works at UC. The choice to attend Union Catholic prepared him academically, athletically, spiritually and socially to move on to the next phase of his life. As you go through the search for the right high school, remember that the UC admissions staff is always available to answer any questions you may have.

Check back later in the week for my blog and video from the Mr. UC Contest!!

Come Home to UC!

2008-04-09T12:49:00.003-04:00

To quote John Quincy Adams, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader”.

That sums up our seniors this year. I have watched these young men and women grow into leaders that truly inspire those around them. Leaders who are as comfortable speaking to a group of prospective students as they are a room full of parents, teachers and administrators. These are students who are not just responsible but are nice ~ nice to each other and their peers. I was concerned as we began the interview process for next year’s ambassadors ~ how could we possibly replace this year’s group. The last question Mr. Luciano and I asked each applicant is…”What do you think the best thing is about Union Catholic”? Do you know that every student may have said it differently, but the message was the same ~ "UC is a place where everyone is different, but we are accepted as we are, we are one big family ~ UC is where everyone feels at home ~I love being here”. Each applicant was anxious and excited to be the next ambassador to spread the news about all the good things happening within the walls of UC. I guess I really don’t have to worry about our future leaders, they are ready and willing to take on the responsibility.

Union Catholic’s ambassadors are just one small part of our leadership community. Today my day began watching the Student Council Executive Board holding rehearsals for “Mr. UC” and last night I sat at a SMAC Meeting (Student Movement Against Cancer), where a group of juniors and seniors organized their Quarters for Cancer Dinner, A Benefit Bash at Lord & Taylor (May 6th if your interested) and the Relay for Life. Peer Ministry is busy planning the Sophomore Day of Recollection and an Anti-bullying Workshop for 7th grade students. Oh and let’s not forget the Health Club leaders that just finished an incredibly successful blood drive and the Environment Club leaders who are busy with plans for Earth Day…the list goes on and on. Union Catholic is a place where students fine their niche. UC Builds Leaders ~ Leaders in the classroom, on the playing field and in the community.

Will you be a future leader at Union Catholic?

Come home to UC! ~ Open House is April 22

BTW – Yesterday, another sunny afternoon – Matt Canales & the UC Vikings baseball team had a convincing win over Dayton 5-1! Congratulations boys!

OPENING DAY!

2008-04-03T13:11:00.002-04:00

In case I haven't mentioned it before, I am a huge baseball fan - have always loved the Yankees, never liked Boston. If I could plan a favorite day, it would be a sunny afternoon at Yankee Stadium right along the third base line to watch the Yankees put away the Red Sox!

Now, not that I am comparing the UC baseball team to the Yankees, but watching the Vikings win ranks up there with my favorite things to do!

Yesterday was Open Day for the Vikings and let me tell you it was exciting!

The seniors wanted to create a real "opening day" feel to the afternoon, so up went the viking tent and out came the grill. With music playing and "ballpark hotdogs" on the grill the Viking Baseball Team beat New Providence High School 5-0 on a beautiful sunny afternoon. Great way to start the season guys!

So if you find yourself with nothing to do on a sunny afternoon and the vikings are playing, stop by for a great game and a hot dog!

Four Day Weekend...UC Still Buzzing!

2008-02-21T11:33:00.002-05:00

How nice it was to be off for the long weekend…were we really off?? Not really! The building was buzzing this morning will all that went on over the weekend…I’ll try to fill you in.

President’s weekend usually means the UC Forensic Team is competing at Harvard; well this year was no exception with many of our students “breaking” into final rounds. Congratulations!

On Saturday spectators were able to watch as Mike McCabe and the UC Track Team once again make an impressive showing at the NJSIAA State Meet at the Jersey City Armory with many of our track team qualifying for the Meet of Champions on Saturday and Easterns next Tuesday. Congratulations to our State Champs Tiara for the high jump and Mike for the 55 meter dash – read more about it at www.uctrack.com!!

What’s that you say??? 600^th WIN? UC Girls Basketball Coach Kathy Matthews? Yes you’ve got it! Tuesday night the Girls basketball team helped to bring Coach Matthews her 600^th career win by beating Oak Knoll 31 -29. If you were to meet Coach in the hall, she would never brag about her accomplishments, in fact she hates the attention. Her reaction is “it’s not all about basketball; it’s about what kind of person you can be off the court as well”. Kathy Matthews has coached so many girls on and off the court, instilling sportsmanship and fair play along the way…how lucky we are to have her here! Congratulations Coach on three-plus decades of coaching basketball and on your milestone win!

Yes UC is buzzing…buzzing with students talking about all the things they did over the long weekend, spice girl concerts, sweet sixteens, basketball games, movies and more…just enjoying life as a high school student. It was wonderful to be off, but just as nice to come back. Tonight our senior boy’s basketball team played their last home game. Parents were introduced with their sons before the game began…a very emotional night! Even principal Sister Percylee found herself emotional as she reflected on what a very special senior class this is. The Class of 2008 is filled with so many wonderful students; young men and women who have grown into strong leaders academically, socially and athletically. It is hard to believe that tomorrow will bring their senior breakfast …108 days to graduation! As the admissions office is busy planning to welcome the Class of 2012 at the Lock-In at the end of the month, it brings the realization that we will have to begin our good-bye to our seniors…well I won’t get ahead of myself – still a lot more to come…the spring musical, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Mr. UC, Proms and my personal favorite …baseball season!

BTW – the boys basketball team won big with the help of all those senior boys – great season, Tony, Mike, Aaron, Keith, Marcus, Carlo & Jimmy!!!

GO BIG BLUE!!

2008-02-04T14:59:00.000-05:00

What does the UC Track Team, the UC Varsity Basketball Team, Class of 2012 Registration and the Giants have in common?? They all had a “banner” weekend!!

Friday night Coach McCabe and the UC Track team made history by qualifying and competing at the 101st Millrose Games at Madison Square Garden. Our 4 x 400 relay team took a respectable fourth place. Congratulations boys on a great job!

After a big win on Thursday against Hillside, the Viking Vault was jumping again on Friday as the UC Boys Varsity Basketball Team had another big win against the St. Mary Hilltoppers. The UC Blue Crew along with the UC Cheerleaders kept the crowd pumped as the boys jumped out to an early lead that they never gave up. Go Big Blue!!!

CLASS OF 2012 REGISTRATION – WOW!

You could feel the anticipation and excitement as so many of the faces that we have grown to know through the admissions review filled our cafeteria on registration day.
Each class brings its own talents and personality to our building and the Class of 2012 will be no exception – what a wonderful group of students! Welcome to UC – we can hardly wait for you to get here!

With a "filled to capacity class", you will not want to miss registering for the “Class of 2012 Lock-In” on Friday, February 29th. This is a great time to get to know all your new classmates!!

GIANTS WIN THE SUPERBOWL!
Just when you think the weekend couldn’t get any better – it does! Maybe Eli Manning and his Giants were listening to one of Sister Percylee’s messages about “Becoming all God Calls You to Be”, or to “Always Strive For Your Best” when they went on to beat the undefeated New England Patriots? All I know is, it was one heck of a game and there were a lot of very excited Giant fans walking the halls of UC this morning ~ especially Mr. Luciano! Once again – at UC, “we’re just livin’ the dream”!

So Class of 2012 – we will always remember the weekend of your registration as a weekend where history was made… made at the Millrose Games, made at Registration, and made when the Giants Beat New England!!

GO BIG BLUE!

GREAT DAY TO BE A VIKING!

2008-01-27T11:07:00.000-05:00

Where to begin?? It has been an exciting couple weeks here at Union Catholic!

After receiving a record number of applications from students seeking admission into the Class of 2012, admission decisions were made and letters were mailed on January 17th. Congratulations to all our accepted students!

Thursday Union Catholic principal, Sister Percylee Hart, hosted a Scholarship Reception for the recipients of the Union Catholic Scholarships. Students and their families were addressed by senior Angela Sessa who spoke about her decision to attend UC and what a difference it has made in her life. Angela let our families know that even though she would be a “HOYA” for the next four years, in her heart would always be a “VIKING”. Angela, we will miss you next year – Georgetown is lucky to be getting you! Camille, a junior at UC, spoke to the students about all the opportunities to get involved at UC, from clubs to sports and to let them know that a “Big Brother or Big Sister” would be there to help them make the transition!

Ok, so that was Thursday, let’s move to Friday ~ The Accepted Students Dance! WOW – it was awesome. Our own anxious “Big Brothers and Sisters” awaited the arrival of the Class of 2012. The minute they arrived the gym was jumping – it took no time at all for the class to gel and dance the night away. The D.J., an alum from UC, kept them up and dancing all night. It was wonderful to see students who came not knowing anyone leave with a whole new group of friends. This is going to be a great class!!!

Now I don’t like to brag, but let me share a little story about one of our seniors. His grandmother passed away and her funeral was Friday morning. He was scheduled to help out with the dance, but we never expected him to come to help ~ but he was there. When I saw him, he said he wouldn't miss it, he wanted to be there. His dedication and school spirit is just an example of the kind of students we have here – thank you Tony!

Of course it was at the dance that one of the Class of 2012 students reminded that I had not updated my blog ~ so Vashon, this blog is for you ~glad you enjoy reading them!

Saturday night the Viking Vault was alive with school spirit as our basketball team (who had all helped with the dance the night before) went on to beat rival Roselle Catholic. Both teams played hard and with tremendous sportsmanship. Congratulations boys – it is a great day to be a Viking!

Today is Sunday and this afternoon we will meet and greet our accepted students and their families once again at our Q&A Sunday. They will be able to go on tours, meet and talk with our faculty members as well as UC parents and students. The commitment to a high school is a huge decision and the admission office wants to make sure that every last question is answered! If you can’t make it today, feel free to give us a call ~ we’re happy to help!

As I’ve mentioned before, as an alum of UC it is especially exciting to watch each new class come in. Some students will be beginning their own legacy, some carrying on a UC tradition from a parent or sibling; either way UC is an amazing place to be. Here students receive a strong education in a faith-filled environment and manage to have a lot of fun along the way! As Mr. Luciano always says…”At UC ~ We’re Living The Dream”!!!

Welcome Class of 2012 ~ We look forward to seeing you on the 2nd!

Next blog…update on how the UC track team does at the Milrose Games at Madison Square Garden on Friday, February 1st – Good luck to Coach McCabe and the UC Track Team!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2007-12-03T14:21:00.000-05:00

Even if I didn’t see it, I could smell it…yes…the Christmas tree is up, lit and decorated – magically Christmas arrived at UC sometime over the weekend...Santa’s elves must have been working overtime. The front hallway decorated with lit boughs and the student wings slowly looking more and more like Christmas as each grade level take pride in decorating their wing.

Where to begin with all that happens at UC in December…
Tomorrow is the Annual Tree of Lights Ceremony, where members of the UC community can purchase a dove ornament in remembrance of a loved one to place on our tree. The UC concert choir adds a special touch to this beautiful ceremony run by the Parent Guild. Immediately following the ceremony, families can then attend the UC Christmas concert. Now I have to tell you, the Admissions Office is right next to the music production room and if what I’ve been hearing everyday from their class is any indication of what the concert will be like…everyone will be in for a treat!!

Take a breath, we are now at Wednesday and it’s time for the UC Faculty Christmas party at L’Affaire -always a wonderful time. A time to just be together and celebrate the Christmas season as coworkers and friends ~ Thank you Sister Percylee for hosting such a special evening!

Friday brings the UC Christmas Semi-Formal. This has to be my favorite event at UC. From the time I was a student here (way back when) it has always been an exciting night. Of course the semi has come a long way from the 70’s when it was hosted in the cafeteria. Now the UC gym is transformed into a winter wonderland. This sell-out event will have over 500 students from grades 9 – 12. They will be treated two a sit down dinner and will be able to dance the night away. I always look forward to seeing all the students with their friends all dressed up…it really is a special night.

So I’ve just told you about the first week of December ...they’ll be more to come...but in the meantime…Merry Christmas!

A Time To Give Thanks!

2007-11-14T16:57:00.000-05:00

It’s hard to believe that next week is Thanksgiving – wasn’t it just yesterday that we were starting the school year?? I guess it’s true what they say – “time flies when you are having a good time”!

Here at UC time does fly. Our calendar packed with events and activities from club periods, and pep rallies to school trips, ring ceremonies and honor roll breakfasts.

So as I sit in my office at this time of year I think about what I am thankful for. Without question, I am thankful a wonderful family, good friends and my health. But I am also thankful to be able to wake up everyday and come to work in a school like UC. A place where the kids are happy to be here, where there is a dedicated faculty and staff that puts in so many extra hours. A place where there is always something to celebrate from perfect SAT scores and merit scholars to victories and championships within our athletic program; a performing arts company that can put on a fall drama that is second to none and a peer ministry group that will work tirelessly to put together Days of Recollections for their classmates. Union Catholic is not just a school, it’s a community, it’s a family of people that really care about each other and help each other succeed.

I was working the grammar school basketball tournament this past Sunday and when I thanked one of our junior girls for giving up a Sunday to come and help us she said…”Oh Mrs. Thornton, I love UC, I love waking up and coming to school, I love my friends and I love to help out”…Well Emily, I agree, I love UC and am thankful to be part of this wonderful community!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

"Oh The Places You Will Go"!

2007-10-16T12:56:00.000-04:00

National Honor Society:

Character…Service…Leadership…Scholarship…

Over 70 students were inducted into the National Honor Society on Wednesday, October 10th. Seniors Keith, Elisabeth, Gia and Angela addressed their peers on their prospective of what it meant to live their lives with character, serve others, be a leader and do it all while maintaining a high academic standard. Each student spoke from their heart as proud families listened attentively from their seats in the auditorium.

This year’s keynote speaker, Senior Guidance Counselor Joanne Jakubik, spoke to the junior and senior inductees about what it meant to achieve such a prestigious honor and reminded them that to be truly successful in life you must always maintain your sense of humor and enjoy what you do. Mrs. Jakubik concluded her thoughts by reading from Dr. Seuss’ book…Oh the Places You Will Go!

Watching these young men and women walk onto the stage to receive their certificates, I thought how far they have come since their freshman orientation day and yet the places they can go and their possibilities are endless.

Congratulations!

Hospitality Homeroom

2007-10-09T13:31:00.000-04:00

What is “hospitality homeroom”? Well I’ll be happy to tell you. It is a group of very unique and special seniors (all part of the big brothers/sister program) who instead of sleeping in an extra half hour, arrive at UC every day at 7:30 am to meet our “freshman for a day” visitors. They wait in homeroom for our visitors to arrive and they share their stories and experiences of being a student here at UC. They are all about the hospitality. As seniors they have a lot of pressures on them. College visits, SATs, AP tests, labs, outside club responsibilities, jobs and social lives. It’s not unusual for me to walk into homeroom early to see all of them studying for upcoming tests. But even with all these demands on their time, as soon as our visitors arrive, the books are closed, smiles on faces and they welcome you!

We have a lot of personalities in our homeroom. Sarah is definitely our morning person and can instantaneously make you feel at home. Ryan, one of UC’s top track stars and Steve, one of the starting varsity pitchers for the Vikings, aren't quite the morning people that Sarah is, but happy to welcome you just the same - I think they just happy to be in a homeroom of mostly girls! Samantha is our cheerleader and I think has visited the most colleges of anyone in the senior class. Angela is involved in the Student Movement Against Cancer (SMAC) and is very organized – she helps keep us organized - she is also our starting softball catcher! Christina is our volleyball player (you can see her picture in our new viewbook) she has a very dry quick sense of humor. She may be small, but she is big in heart and school spirit. Angelica and Katie are two of our quieter girls with the best smiles, and warmest personalities, they can make even our shyest visitors feel at home. Last but not least is Maggie. Maggie is one of the senior members of Union Catholic’s Peer Ministry group. She, like most of our students juggle many activities and clubs, but nothing is ever too much trouble. No matter how tired or how much she has on her plate, she is always there lending her hand!

This is our homeroom, a cast of many personalities, all come together to help prospective students start they day off on the right foot! Come meet them – they’d be happy to tell you about life at UC, happy to make you feel a part of the UC family – after all, we are “hospitality homeroom”

Excitement in the Air!!

2007-10-05T11:00:00.000-04:00

Each year in October, Union Catholic opens her doors to prospective students and their families at the Fall Open House. Every year we fill our auditorium with excited 8th graders beginning their search for the “right” high school. So what was different this year?? There was definitely an excitement, a buzz, a feeling of “I’ve got to come to this school” in the air.

After greeting families in the main lobby and having sent my last tour out with our ambassadors, I made my way down to the auditorium. I could feel the excitement building as our UC musicians finished playing and Kayla, a freshman at UC, sang the National Anthem – such confidence! So much talent lies within the walls of UC, right down to our newest and youngest members of our community. The night just got better as the slide show, done by Class of 2004 alum Jess Vogt, showed our audience a view of a student’s life here at UC. This was followed by a warm welcome from Principal Sister Percylee & the UC Viking and finished with a presentation by Assistant Principal Jim Reagan.

All of this is very normal for a UC Open House. So as our prospective families left the auditorium to follow their class schedules, I asked again, why did tonight feel so special, so unique??? After thinking about it, I realized it was special because the excitement began within the walls of UC. Our students, our faculty and our administration were all excited to be there. There was a sense of pride and enthusiasm to be able to show off all that UC has to offer a student and their family. It doesn’t matter whether you learn at an accelerated level or a remedial level, whether you are an athlete or a performer, whether you like chess or the step squad – Union Catholic can be the place for you. Come feel the excitement yourself, talk to our students, our faculty or our alums. Union Catholic is a special place – you can just feel it in the air!!

WELCOME BACK!

2007-09-11T08:29:00.000-04:00

The hallways are shinning, the new “state of the art” chemistry lab is ready, newly painted Viking heads outline the entrance to the gym, summer reading is done (hopefully) – we are ready!

As the buses started arriving you could hear shrieks of excitement in the halls of UC as friends reconnected after a fun summer off. The building is alive again with our UC students. New seniors handing in their parking paperwork to get “good spots”, juniors excited to finally be considered “upperclassmen”, sophomores happy not being the “new kids” and freshmen excited to be the newest members of the UC family and finding their way through the halls of UC with a little help from their Big Brothers and Sisters.

It’s funny, having worked so much of the summer I realized that UC never really does “sleep”. There was always something happening…summer theater workshops, the summer play, sports camps, summer classes, fall tryouts and a winning summer baseball legion season! But, even though so many things happen during the summer, I am always happy to see our kids back – they are the “life and personality” of UC.

What will this year bring? I don’t know, but feeling the excitement in the building today makes me believe it’s going to be a great year!

Concert..Prom..Relay & more....

2007-05-30T12:40:00.000-04:00

Sometimes when I think of what happens in a week at Union Catholic High School I am amazed at how you can fit it all in.

Tuesday evening Union Catholic put on their Spring Concert to a full auditorium. Each year that I attend I am in awe at the talent that lies within the walls of UC. This year’s concert was called “Rock and Soul Review” under the direction of our very own Mr. Don Frio. The evening began with the classical review with piano and violin solos then to the strings and our gospel choir who were accompanied by the UC Blues Ensemble. The auditorium then rocked with the UC Band as they played such hits as Smoke on the Water, Brickhouse, and Enter the Sandman. Next entered our Concert Choir, again accompanied by our UC Blues Ensemble to sing Come Sail Away and Celebration, to name just a few, and finished with the 70’s Soul Celebration. The auditorium was jumping and just when you thought it couldn’t get any better the UC Seniors came out to perform their rendition of Freebird complete with light show…or was that really The Lynyrd Skynyrd Band on stage ????? What an amazing night…congratulations!

Wednesday Union Catholic’s spring atheletic dinner was held at the Westwood in Garwood – the athletic program here at UC has experienced such growth in success this past year that we have had to move to three athletic dinners; fall sports, winter and then spring. It was bittersweet as our senior athletes were recognized for their accomplishments this year…another step closer to graduation.

Thursday evening our seniors danced the night away at the Crystal Plaza for their Senior Prom. You take them out of their uniforms and they look so sophisticated. A great night was had by all.

Ok – so we’re not done yet – Friday over 85 members of the Union Catholic Student Movement Against Cancer Club spent the night at the Scotch Plains Fanwood High School football field for the Relay for Life. The evening opened with the “survivors lap” which I personally was very proud to do with my children. How moving it was to see the UC students doing laps from 7 pm till 6 am. This year’s relay held special meaning to the UC kids…they were walking in memory of Chris O’Bara, class of 2008 who lost his battle with cancer this past September.

The UC Community had to sleep fast over the weekend because this week brought a whole new list of activities, one of which was the 11th Annual Grammar School Forensic Tournament. Over 17 schools participated in this year’s competition in areas such as Duo, Declamation, and Humor to name a few. It is exciting to see the confidence and talent of upcoming high school students.

So what does all this say about the UC Community other than most of us don’t need a lot of sleep. It says that Union Catholic celebrates the diversity of their student’s talents. Whether an athlete, a musician, a member of peer ministry or SMAC..UC will help foster your talent. Combine this with an outstanding academic program…Union Catholic help our students get to the next level.

In my next blog I fill you in on how our Forensic Team did at Nationals and all the wonderful places our seniors are going…we could not be prouder of their accomplishments. Graduation is next Saturday

Spring

2007-04-18T17:01:00.000-04:00

Spring is definitely in the air! The building is a “buzz” with talk of college acceptances, scholarships, academic awards, prom dates, baseball games, tennis and golf matches. March was such a busy month here at Union Catholic; I think everyone was ready for the Spring Break - and what a nice long stretch off we had! Since my last entry, our Spring Musical, Sugar, opened! What a show and what a talented group of students. I am always amazed to see the show develop from try-outs to opening night. The lighting, the set design, costumes, the singing, the dancing…all done by UC students – WOW – it was awesome – we all laughed so hard – I can hardly wait to see what musical they will be doing next year! Every year I wonder how they will top the year before, but they always do. Our performing arts students will get a short break before tryouts for the summer productions and then the fall drama – it seems that the theater is never “dark” at UC!

Union Catholic Ambassadors were on hand to welcome over 60 grammar school teachers and principals, as well as guests from the diocesan office, who attended the Annual Principals Roundtable Dinner on March 29th. This year guests where able to see first hand some of the new and innovative offerings here at Union Catholic including a PowerPoint presentation on UC’s Virtual High School. This years successful Virtual High School pilot program included nine students taking courses such as DNA Technology, Genes & Diseases, Bioethics and Screen Writing to mention a few. Word of the success of this new initiative has spread through the halls of UC as students now apply for next year’s courses

After the presentations and a fabulous dinner catered by Clynne & Murphy of Westfield, our guests were entertained by two of our senior forensic team members who qualified to compete at the National Forensic Competition in Houston Texas this Memorial Day Weekend. John & Edward were two of eight members who have qualified for this year's National Competition – Good luck team – we’re all very proud of you!

As you can see, there is always something exciting happening here at UC. Be sure to check the athletic page on our website – stop by at any of our sporting events…come experience Viking Pride! Not into sports – how about the Mr. UC competition on April 26th – always a fun night!

Career Day...Lock-In...Parade...Lose an Hour!

2007-03-13T16:24:00.000-04:00

What an exciting week at Union Catholic!

Thursday Union Catholic hosted over 30 alumnae who came back to Union Catholic to speak with the sophomores during Career Day. Alums from some of our very first graduating classes to our more recent graduates came back to share their careers with students in the Class of 2009 – it was fun to see alumnae walk through the halls of their old “stomping ground” and relive many memories. For me it was great to see some “old” friends - thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedules to share your experiences!

Friday night brought the Class of 2011 Lock-in. Union Catholic Big Brothers and Sisters had a full night of games, food and fun planned for the incoming freshman. Sean, a senior here at UC did a great job as the DJ and was that Howie Mandel or senior, Ed Sagendorf as the host of Deal or No Deal? Incoming freshmen feasted on a “lent friendly” dinner that included UC’s famous fries and the annual pie eating contest was won by Joe, an incoming freshman from St. John the Apostle. Kickball, tennis ball relay, guitar hero, knockout – I could go on and on – but as the night was ending with “make your own sundaes” it was evident that the night was not only about the games and the food, but about making new friends and melding into a new community. I loved watching our big brothers and sisters bring our newest members of the community into the family. Welcome Class of 2011, we loved having you here in the building….can’t wait to see you again at the BBQ – watch the mail for more details!

So as the last student was picked up a little after midnight, we packed our cars so that we would be ready to go first thing in the morning …you guess it…the Union County Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. The Union Catholic Performing Arts Company performed a number from Sugar, our spring musical, at the parade grandstand in Union Center right before the parade kicked off at 1:00 pm. Union Catholic students were looking good as they marched down Morris Avenue carrying the banners from each of Ireland’s counties. Union Catholic was honored to be asked by the parade committee to participate in the parade by carrying these banners to start the parade and then again at the end... Mrs. Abel’s tailgate on Jeannette Avenue was a “hot spot” as she cooked taylor ham sandwiches for all our marchers as well as a lot of the parade committee members and some alumni who stopped by. On Saturday, there was a little Irish in all of us!

Ok – so with all this happening, can you believe we lost an hour of sleep! It’s ok though, Monday came with a whole new week of activities…club period, course selections and so much more...I’ll fill you in soon!.

Carnivale..Lent..Senior Retreat

2007-02-23T12:48:00.000-05:00

Fat Tuesday came a few days early here at Union Catholic with the celebration of Carnivale. Carnivale is traditionally celebrated on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, but since that coincided with a long weekend off for Presidents Weekend, the celebration began on Friday.

Students from all four years of Mr. Cerimele’s Italian classes poured into the celebration bringing homemade Italian dinners and pastries – it sure did smell good! The evening was filled with good food, music and dancing – a fun night was had by all! But just as Mardi Gras abruptly ends at midnight on Fat Tuesday, so does Carnivale end and bring Lent to the UC Community. Prayer services conducted by Deacon Lynch were held during each period of the school day on Wednesday so that all students were able to attend and receive ashes. Deacon Lynch gave a beautiful reflection on the meaning of sacrificing during Lent, sacrificing with a smile….maybe by doing some “random acts of kindness”.

What a perfect time of year for our seniors to leave for their retreat…a time to reflect on their high school years and where their future will take them. With college acceptances pouring in, decisions need to be made – which school is the right choice? Seniors are faced with so many decisions as they travel through their last months of high school. I’m sure the retreat will be a wonderful time of reflection with some fun thrown in. Faculty and students have all been submitting their letters of affirmation for the seniors attending. These letters will be given to the seniors during their weekend…always a very special time of the retreat!

Class of 2007 ---enjoy your retreat, you will be in our thoughts and prayers - next week will bring the “107 Days till Graduation” breakfast. Mrs. Abel and the ladies in development are planning a special menu in your honor!

St. Valentine

2007-02-16T12:13:00.000-05:00

If you look up St. Valentine’s Day on Google, you’ll find out lots of different theories…one is that the tradition of proclaiming one’s love to another came from England and France during the Middle Ages where it is believed that on February 14th, half way through the second month of the year, the birds began to pair.

Valentine’s Day here at UC means a "tag day" - a day to dress in our jeans, and red of course. The building is bright with the color of red everywhere. And of course, Sister Eloise will probably win for being the person who receives the most flowers!

Student Council sold candy grams all last week which were delivered this morning in homeroom. Student Council also ran a computerized compatibility test - what fun it is to see who you are compatible with!

Not even a "snow day" can keep UC from celebrating St. Valentine’s Day. Here we are on February 15th wearing our red and taking the time to tell those we care about that we love them. In thinking about it, I realized that this is just what UC does - they make everything special. So here in the middle of winter and 6 weeks before the hope of spring, we take a day to celebrate LOVE!

As our February Club period approaches, I am sure that the IRISH VIKINGS will be gearing up for the Union County St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Union on March 10th. Come out and see us as our Performing Arts Company will be performing at the Grandstands in Union Center and the UC Viking will be marching with the UC Students. All UC students marching in the parade get a special breakfast prepared by UC’s favorite mom, Mrs. Abel - save a pork roll sandwich for me!!

Accepted Students Dance

2007-02-01T10:28:00.000-05:00

Who will the Class of 2011 be?? It’s like waiting for the birth of a new child - What talents will then bring - who will be the new leaders, athletes, stage stars? Who will be the new additions to the UC Community?

Well if the accepted students dance is any indication of the spirit and life that the Class of 2011 will bring, we can’t wait for them to get here!

Union Catholic’s "big brothers" and "big sisters" along with the Union Catholic ambassadors were on hand to help welcome accepted students to the "accepted students dance" Music was provided by DJ Tony Pops, who commented on how much he loves coming to do the dances at UC - he loves our kids!

The Class of 2011 followed the lead of the some of the UC Boys basketball team as they led them in Cotton Eyed Joe and the Cha-Cha slide. It was nice to see that their talents aren’t limited to basketball - by the way great season guys (13-3) Good luck with the rest of the season!

Congrats goes out to the Union Catholic Winter Track Team as well for just taking the County Title - way to go Coach McCabe & the UC Track Team!

The students from the Class of 2011 are coming from many different areas and schools. Each bringing a uniqueness to Union Catholic. We know that you may be a little nervous - but not to worry, we are here to help you with the transition. The Union Catholic faculty and staff along with the Big Brothers and Big Sisters will show you the ropes -
As singer Natasha Bedingfields songs say...

"Live you life with arms wide open…Today is where your book begins!"

Class of 2011 your "book" begins on Saturday….see you then!

Winter Sports Rock the Vault...

2006-12-18T12:50:00.000-05:00

Just when you think school spirit couldn’t get any better, UC holds a pep rally. The Viking Vault (UC’s gym) was rocking as the winter sports athletes were introduced on Wednesday afternoon. The Union Catholic Viking was on hand to rally support as Danielle ‘07 sang a beautiful rendition of the national anthem followed by the UC Cheerleaders dance routine. Union Catholic’s dance team wowed the crowd with their routine followed by games of "class knockout". Then, just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, the step squad jumped into action - great job!!

As I stood on the sideline I couldn’t help but feel the energy in the gym - I didn’t know where to look first - the class of ’07 DJs kept the place hopping, each class cheering for the 3 on 3 tournament, and the basketball spinning contest. I do believe I even caught Sister Percylee dancing with the Viking…… UC Spirit is alive and well.

'Tis the Season...

2006-12-14T11:10:00.000-05:00

I know that the world seems to skip over Thanksgiving and jump right into Christmas - but here at UC we had the honor of having Fr. Kevin Hanbury, Vicar of Education and Superintendent of Schools visit UC and say our Thanksgiving Liturgy on November 21st. Fr. Kevin blessed all our Thanksgiving baskets before they were brought over to Immaculate Heart of Mary Church and then addressed each individual class during the liturgy. After mass the UC community was lucky enough to have a five day weekend - that was great!

Of course as soon as were back from our long weekend, preparations began for the month of December - our dedicated parent guild decorated our halls with bows of lighted garland and our Christmas Tree was put up in the main foyer for our Annual Tree of Lights Ceremony and Christmas Concert. This year’s Tree of Lights ceremony was especially moving as the tree was lit in memory of Chris O’Bara, Class of 2008 who passed away this past September from cancer. The O’Bara family was present and was able to take home the dove ornament with Chris’ name on it.

The over 100 families were then able to leave the Tree of Lights ceremony and head to the auditorium for the annual Christmas Concert - this year’s theme ---Christmas Rock!
And let me tell you the auditorium did rock! Under the direction of music teacher, Don Frio, UC’s finest musicians put on a concert that definitely lifted spirits and put everyone in the mood for the Christmas season! From individual performances to the Gospel Choir to the UC Blues Ensemble and then the UC band, it is evident that the UC Community has a very talented group of students - thanks to all for a fabulous show!

So you may be thinking that this would be enough for one week - but - there’s more! Friday night over 560 students attended the Union Catholic Christmas Semi-Formal. The gym, otherwise know as the "Viking Vault" was transformed into a Christmas wonderland where our students, dressed in their finest, danced the night away to the music of the Pros. A delicious home cooked dinner was served by the UC Faculty. Of course I’m not sure how many of our students got the chicken fingers - Coach McCabe was serving them --- one for you - one for him.

Ok, you may think that we do is plan events - well in the midst of all of the Christmas celebrations, UC also received word of several commended students and a student who receive a perfect SAT Writing score. Union Catholic creates an environment that celebrates the changing seasons with special traditions and events and yet at the same time challenges their students to achieve goals they never dreamed possible. When learning is fun - success follows.

The winter pep rally was Wednesday - I’ll let you know how that goes…….

Class of 2011

2006-11-14T09:37:00.000-05:00

Union Catholic was buzzing with over 300 students taking the High School Entrance Test (COOP) this past Friday. Union Catholic was one of the many testing sights throughout the Diocese of Newark with over 6,700 eighth graders taking the test this year. Big Brothers and Sisters were on hand to help 8th graders find their classrooms and to help give out snacks at break time. It was great to see how many students recognized each other after being here for Freshman For A Day! It was great to see many alumnae here dropping off the next generation ready for Union Catholic - the legacy continues! It was also nice to hear that many of our prospective parents have enjoyed reading the blogs on our website.

Eighth grade is an exciting time. So many students have traveled through their grammar or middle school with the same group of friends - over the years they become like family. Now as they take this high school entrance test the realization of having to make a high school choice comes one step closer. The friends they have traveled with for all these years may go in different directions. So how does an eighth grader make that choice? I believe that the majority of eighth graders today have a good idea of what their goals are and what they hope to gain from their high school experience. So Class of 2011, your high school test is done - you are another step closer to high school, now what?? Visit your choices - come see us, talk to our students, visit a sporting event - let us show you what UC has to offer you spiritually, academically & socially.

If you’ve missed the high school entrance test, there is a make-up this Saturday, November 18th at Union Catholic - feel free to call for more information!

The tradition of a high school ring...

2006-10-30T08:59:00.000-05:00

The Class of 2008 passed another milestone Tuesday as they received their rings at the Union Catholic Ring Ceremony. The Mass was held at Immaculate Heart Church with a beautiful reception hosted by the Class of 2009 parents in the UC cafeteria immediately following.

What does a ring symbolize….the celebrant, Fr. Hummel explained…"now you are people" not little freshman or silly sophomores, but young adults, now bonded as a class…the Class of ’08."

As I watched the juniors go up to receive their rings and then in the cafeteria turning each others rings I couldn’t help but reminisce my own ring ceremony. In 1974 The Union Catholic Girls School held their ring ceremony mass right in the UC foyer where it seemed that a group of girls from all different towns bond into one….the Class of 1975 - we became the upperclassmen of Union Catholic. How exciting it was to receive that ring, and how proud I was to wear it. Times have changed since then, juniors are able to pick their own style ring, personalizing every aspect of their choice. But the tradition remains - the tradition of receiving your class ring. The Class of 2008 has arrived - they are now upperclassmen, bonded forever as a class - the Class of ‘08. Congratulations!

Speaking of traditions that have remained the same….this week is Halloween which means the UC Halloween parade! I can’t wait!

Short Video from Junior Ring Ceremony

UC Spirit is Alive!

2006-10-19T08:59:00.000-04:00

School Spirit is alive and well at UC! The first UC Pep Rally took place on Thursday to a gym packed with enthusiastic students. After the Nation Anthem was sung by senior Candace Pyne, varsity teams were announced and the fun began. The UC cheerleaders and gymnastic team performed and games of volleyball were played. But the highlight of the afternoon was definitely when four of our own UC teachers participated in the “bobbing for apples contest”. Union Catholic teachers are not only exceptional educators; they’re also a lot of fun and good sports!!

Thursday was also the night of the National Honor Society. It was a beautiful evening with four of our inductees speaking on Character, Service, Leadership and Scholarship. The keynote speaker, Humanities teacher Mrs. Marla James, quoted “to those who much has been give, much will be expected.” Mrs. James challenged the inductees to use the gifts and talents that they have been given through their parents, families and school to give back. Give back to their families, their school and their community. This special evening ended with proud parents and students enjoying refreshments in the UC cafeteria.

I helped chaperone the school trip, this past weekend and it was fabulous. Two buses of juniors and seniors pulled out of the UC parking lot at 8:30 am and headed to our first stop – the Hard Rock Café in Baltimore Maryland. After lunch, entertainment and a little shopping we were back on the busses headed for Williamsburg Virginia. The Union Catholic students were “looking good” at the Friday night dinner dance. The evening was only complete after Assistant Principal, Mr. Jim Reagan joined the students for a dance to “Hey Ya” by Outcast. Saturday included a visit to the College of William & Mary and a Historic Tour of Williamsburg. The best part of the day was definitely the afternoon and evening spent at Busch Gardens. UC students enjoyed rides, shows, haunted train rides and an afternoon of building memories with their friends. It is amazing how much you can pack into a weekend! Thanks Mrs. Palenik for organizing such a fun trip! Can’t wait to see where we’re going next year!!!

Open House and more...

2006-10-11T11:06:00.000-04:00

Open House was amazing, a full house with standing room only. I love to watch the UC students interact with prospective students and their parents Our kids are so genuine, sharing their own personal experiences here at UC. And, since Open House, the “Freshman for a Day” program is off and running with excited 8^th graders coming in daily to spend the day with one of our freshman. Today a parent was dropping off their 8^th grader for “freshman for a day” and was watching our student put on UCTV and said, “the high school experience has so much to offer now, it makes me want to come and spend the day”. Yes, high school is a whole new world and UC is an exciting place to learn.

Having a freshman son in the building myself has helped me get an inside look of what their day is like. Of course I think I am going to give Coach McCabe, our Cross Country team coach, a list of things I need DJ to do because what ever “coach says” goes! As a parent I am thrilled to see the discipline, drive and sportsmanship that coach instills in the team, but more importantly, it is wonderful to see the older students welcome a freshman to the team. Not only are they Conference Champs, they had fun getting there – that’s a great combination!

I will be leaving on Friday for Williamsburg Virginia with 100 of our Juniors and Seniors . Mrs. Palenik, the trip coordinator, has a full weekend planned - I will fill you in next week – let’s hope for good weather!

My first blog =)

2006-10-03T09:08:00.000-04:00

Let me introduce myself – my name is Betsy Thornton and I am Director of Admissions at Union Catholic High School. I am a graduate of Union Catholic Girls School - Class of 1975. Yes, “back in the day” Union Catholic was two different schools – the “girls’ side” and the “boys side and even though there were no cell phones, no laptops, or instant messaging some of my best memories took place in the halls of UC. I made life long friends and left after my four years prepared, educationally, socially and spiritually for the challenges that faced me.

Now that I am back in Union Catholic, it is my privilege to help students learn about UC. Our building has been alive with activity since the doors opened on a new school year. Last week we had over 350 8^th graders visit from some of our catholic sending schools for the 8^th grade Days of Recollection and our Freshman for a Day program is in full swing with visitors scheduled daily. Our doors are always open and our ambassadors are ready to give tours and show you around. As the school year progresses, I look forward to sharing weekly notes about “life in the UC community”.