Montgomery Catholic Partners With AUM Confucius Institute Offering Students a Broader Worldview

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School has partnered with Auburn University at Montgomery's Confucius institute and offers Middle and High School electives in Mandarin Chinese and Chinese Culture to students in grades K4-6.

Montgomery Catholic school president, Anne Ceasar said "We are excited about our new partnership with the Confucius Institute this year, and the addition of our visiting teacher Jeremy Zeng. He is not only teaching a Mandarin Chinese class but cultural lessons to all of our students and faculty. This is an amazing opportunity to widen our students' worldview." 

The Confucius Institute at AUM was established in 2012, as part of a worldwide network.  According to AUM, the goals of Confucius Institutes is to "satisfying the demands of peoples from different countries and regions in the world who learn the Chinese language; enhancing understanding of the Chinese language and culture by these peoples; strengthening educational and cultural exchanges and cooperation between China and other countries; deepening friendly relationships with other nations; promoting the development of multi-culturalism, and constructing a harmonious world."

Montgomery Catholic welcomed their visiting teacher, Mr. Jeremy Zeng, in early September. He began his lessons immediately, and has already offered his students the opportunity to experience Chinese culture on a field trip to ASF and by learning a song which was performed for the Montgomery Catholic student body. MCPS 7-12 principal Chad Barwick said, "His classes for the middle and high school are exciting as they shift from language instruction to cultural differences. The Lotus Flower song he taught the students was a hit and came in handy as they sang it with the Guangzhou Dance Troupe on a class field trip." 

Mr. Zeng was born in a small village surrounded by mountains in southeast of China. His family has been farmers for generations, which Zeng explained is still very primitive in his village. "Education changed my life, and the big world did not unfold its beautiful picture until I received education," said Zeng. After completing his graduate work in China, he returned to his high school alma mater to begin his teaching career in 2011 teaching English. In the summer of 2015, a trip to the United States was put on the agenda, through a national examination in China Jeremy said, "I was the lucky dog from thousands of teachers chosen to participate, and after the longest interview I have ever had, which lasted about five hours, I was given the opportunity to interview via Skype with Mrs. Anne Ceasar. Then, I am here - working as a Chinese teacher sharing the language and culture for the next two years."   

Mr. Zeng has been happy to see most students here are polite and willing to learn. He said "when they open their mouths to talk in Chinese, it brings me a satisfaction in being a teacher." On being placed at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School, the first private school to offer classes through the Confucius Institute, Zeng said, "So far I like working at MCPS, the faculty and students work just like a family." Jeremy's biggest challenge while teaching here, may be crossing Vaughn Road each morning when he walks to work.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School is looking forward to continuing the relationship with AUM's Confucius Institute, principal Chad Barwick said, “It has been a real joy and blessing having Jeremy join our faculty and teach us about China and about himself. Firstly, he is a sharp, smart teacher who always wants to learn about teaching techniques, lesson structures, and American culture."

Founded in 1873, Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School is an integral part of the Catholic Church's mission to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ...while preparing students for college and beyond...helping them grow to become persons of faith, virtue, and wisdom.

Catholic Knights Wrestle to the Top at Local Tournaments

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School's Varsity Wrestling team took 1st and 2nd at the Swede Umbach Invitational held on December 11 and 12, 2015 in Auburn High School in Auburn, Alabama. Montgomery Catholic junior, Zachary Van Alst placed first with teammate senior, Gabe Keating taking second. 

The Catholic JV wrestlers competed at the Montgomery Open tournament held at Goodwyn on Saturday, December 12. The Knights brought home a five medals total including: Sean Moore, 1st Place; Jason Flowers, 2nd Place; Maverick Friday, 2nd Place; Clayton Peeler, 3rd Place; and Michael Hodges, 3rd Place.

The Knights finish 2015 with a match at PCA and the Barry Mask Tournament on December 28 and 29 before welcoming 2016.

Montgomery Catholic Students attend Montgomery Bus Boycott 60th Anniversary Youth Summit

Eight Montgomery Catholic High School students participated in the Montgomery Improvement Association's Beyond the Bus - Youth Summit.  On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the monumental Montgomery Bus Boycott, the summit brought together student leaders from senior high schools and colleges across the state to collaborate and examine strategies for improving our communities and leading change in our nation. The hope is to prepare a new era of advocacy and action among our nations young people to be active in the modern movement for human rights. Montgomery Catholic senior Jonathan Green said "it was necessary, there are so many parts of the civil rights movement, this was an opportunity to find out the truth about it. It also gave us an opportunity to learn about the people involved in the movement that sometimes go nameless". Green also said that he enjoyed the reenactment and thought that the performances were cool. Pictured are Johnathon Green, Anna Marie Koerner, Madison Pritchett, Audrey Kim, Austin Collett, Anna Mary Gilbert, Aleigha Walden and Kevin Leahy in a retro Montgomery Bus during the 60th anniversary of the Montgomery Bus Boycott Youth Summit in downtown Montgomery.

Montgomery Catholic's Marching Knights March in Christmas Parade

The Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Marching Knights were invited to perform in the Shoppes at EastChase Santa Parade on Saturday, November 14. The band enjoyed welcoming Santa to town as they played Christmas Carols and marched in front of his carriage. With over fifty members of the Marching Knights and Color Guard in the parade, the band certainly added to the wonderful Christmas Spirit of the day.  Band Director Alex Johnson and Color Guard coaches Sarah Rech and Maggie O'Donnell marched alongside their members.

12 Catholic Middle School Band Members Accepted to Troy Honor Band

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School proudly announces 12 middle school band members selected for Troy University SEUS Middle School Honor Band, which took place on December 3-5, 2015 in Troy, Alabama. The Montgomery Catholic middle school band members chosen for this honor band were: Bobby Crawford, Lainie Doyle, Mai Ellington, Angela Gier, Victoria Hall, Ashley Hayes, Savannah Johnson, Koen McDaniel, Charlie O'Donnell, Clayton Peeler, Darian Riley, and Hannah Vaccaro. The Middle School Band Director is Alex Johnson.

“I scream. You scream. We ALL scream for ice cream!”

The children in Mary Walker’s four-year-old kindergarten class at Montgomery Catholic’s Holy Spirit Campus recently studied the letter “I”.  The students spent the week working on recognizing and writing the letter, as well as identifying all kinds of things that begin with “I”.  To culminate their study of the ninth letter of the alphabet, Mrs. Walker taught the children how to make homemade vanilla ice cream!  Each student had a bag with cream, a bit of vanilla, and milk within a bag of salt and ice.  The children vigorously maneuvered their bags until the ice cream was ready.  The excitement was difficult to contain and the delicious treat was worth all of their hard work throughout the week!  Pictured is Mrs. Walker with her K-4 class as they made ice cream.  Damien Lee enjoys his handmade vanilla ice cream with sprinkles!

Submitted by Mary Kelley

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Students’ Collect BOXES OF JOY!

Fourth grade students Owen Thompson, Isabella Munoz, Jessica Hankins and Ben Nguyen help load up “Boxes of Joy” at the MCPS Holy Spirit campus. Each Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School family received a box to fill for a needy child in support of the Cross Catholic Outreach program. Every year, thousands of poor children experience a Christmas without hope, Montgomery Catholic is blessed by a generous community who seems to always give more. The middle/high school campus acted as the Central Alabama collection center. The high school students loaded almost 1,000 boxes in mid-November, all headed to Guatemala and Haiti. Learn more at: www.crosscatholic.org/boxofjoy.

Key Club at Montgomery Catholic Continues Great Service to the Community

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School has a long history serving the community. The perfect example is the very active MCPS Key Club. As the most active club in the State of Alabama, Montgomery Catholic's Key Club members have been recognized on the State and National level for their efforts. 

Key Club members help out at Camp Chandler during Halloween.
Pictured are: Maggie Tippett, Reagan Herbek, Emma Gandy, Marie Johnson, Jenni Morgan, Paige Rentfro, Trinity Carter, Aubrey Lenn, Martin Lee, Aleigha Walden, Anna Nutting, Isabelle Cochran, Madison Searcy, Carrie Belsterling.

For the 2015-16 school year the Montgomery Catholic Key Club has already made an impact in the River Region. Current Key Club members at the school have given time in service to The Spina Bifida Association's annual Walk-n-Roll at the Montgomery Zoo, helped children with arts and crafts at ARToberfest located in historic Capitol Heights, travelled to Camp Chandler to help with the Halloween Carnival and the Montgomery Zoo for their annual event Zoo Boo and work the Alabama National Fair. Averaging approximately 60 members per year, the Key Club is the largest single club on campus, involving nearly 20% of all high school students. 

Over 1000 hours of service have been completed so far.  The next few months will have the club helping serve meals and delivering donations at the Salvation Army, collecting donations for the Montgomery Area Council on Aging, helping with the Humane Shelter Gift Wrapping Fundraiser at East Chase, helping needy families through the Christmas Clearinghouse, doing yard work for the elderly, and volunteering at Reality and Truth Homeless Shelter.   

The Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Key Club is led by president Patrick Gregorious (senior), vice president Marissa Dogan (senior), Chaplin Agnes Armstrong (senior) and secretary Anna Nutting (sophomore). They are sponsored by teacher Mrs. Jeanene Crenshaw.

Club secretary, Anna Nutting paints faces at a local fall event.

Two Montgomery Catholic Students Named Judges at YMCA Youth Judicial

Thirty-four students from Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School recently participated in the Youth Judicial program sponsored by the YMCA. Students from around the state spent three days in downtown Montgomery  reenacting actual court cases, participating in all parts of the judicial process, serving as judges, bailiffs, prosecution and defense lawyer teams, and as jurors. Each of the Montgomery Catholic teams were coached by Montgomery attorneys some with Montgomery Catholic roots: Deanie (Clark) Allen ’62, Laurel Crawford ' 02, Richard Dean ’78, Joe Rech,and Jacquelyn Tomlinson.

Two students both juniors from Montgomery Catholic, Cheyenne Hayes  and James Sadie were named judges, and Evan Miles acted as bailiff for Judge Sadie. One of the Montgomery Catholic teams consisting of Audrey Kim, Henry Petters, Chloe Newell, Carson Scott, Matthew Taylor, Coleman Schmidt, and Daniel Reeves placed in the top 10.  

With the success of Youth Judicial, Montgomery Catholic is looking forward to participating in YMCA’s Youth Legislature in 2016.

Montgomery Catholic's Cross Country Team Finishes the Season Strong

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School's Girls' Cross Country team won the Class 4A Section 1 AHSAA Sectional Championship at Kiesel Park in Auburn on Thursday, November 5, 2015. The team qualified for the State Meet and headed to Oakville to compete on Saturday, November 14. Montgomery Catholic had two individual State qualifiers from the boys' team, they were Grant Walker and Kevin Leahy.

Twelve MCPS runners competed at the State meet. The Montgomery Catholic Girls' team finished fourth with freshman, Amaris Tyynismaa finishing in first place with a time of 17:52.25. Two of her teammates finished in the top 20, including, freshman, Isabelle Cochran in eighth place and Grace Leslie in 17th. 

The team is coached by Ed Wright, and assisted by Hollis Johnson, Brianna Lisenby and Kevin Madden. Team members who participated at State were:  Isabelle Cochran, Lacy Herbek,Grace Leslie, Sarah Beth Littrell, Madison Searcy, Chloe Smith, Katelyn Stark, Annabel Starrett, Amaris Tyynismaa, Kevin Leahy and Grant Walker. 

Montgomery Catholic Girls' Cross Country Team AHSAA Class 4A Section 1 Champions

Montgomery Catholic Inducts 35 New Members into National Junior Honor Society

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School inducted 35 new members into their chapter of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) during a ceremony held on Monday, November 16, 2015.  The largest group to ever be inducted into the Montgomery Catholic chapter, it is more than an honor society, these 35 eighth grade students have demonstrated outstanding performance in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship. 



The newest members of National Junior Honors Society at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory Middle School for the 2015-2016 school year are: Ryan Avery, Sarah Rose Burden, Tanner Carter, Bobby Crawford, Emily Curry, Nathan Downes, Lainie Doyle, Anna DuBois, Patrick Flores, Jason Flowers, Victoria Hall, Ashley Hayes, Michael Hodges, Tyler Hoffman, Sophie Izer, Savannah Johnson, Denalie Mosakowski, Scott Nation, Katherine O’Connor, Charlie O’Donnell, Zack Pappanastos, Clayton Peeler, Katie Perkins, Meaghan Pineda, Anna Sadie, Emma Secor, Elizabeth Speirs, Kinley Tadlock, John Tittel, Christopher Valencia, Daniel Walmsley, Patrick Whetstone and Clare Wilson.

Founded in 1873, Montgomery Catholic Preparatory Schools Mission is:

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School is an integral part of the Catholic Church's mission to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ.  As an adult community, we share in the responsibility to prepare students for college and beyond while helping them grow to become persons of faith, virtue and wisdom.

MCPS Alum & Local Hero Serves in National Service Program

Sacramento, Calif. – Today, Nicholas Beverly of Montgomery, Ala. is officially inducted into a 10-month term of service in the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC), an AmeriCorps program.  He begins work on the first of four long-term service projects next week. 

Founded in 1994, AmeriCorps NCCC is a residential national service program that supports disaster relief, the environment, infrastructure improvement, energy conservation, and urban and rural development.   Since 1994, more than 900,000 Americans have served over 1.2 billion hours across the family of AmeriCorps programs. Currently, about 75,000 people serve in AmeriCorps programs nationwide each year, about 1,200 of whom serve with AmeriCorps NCCC. 

            Beverly arrived at AmeriCorps NCCC’s Pacific Region Campus in Sacramento, Calif. on Wednesday, October 14, to receive training for 10 months of full-time service with the program.  This training emphasized teamwork, leadership development, communication, service learning, and specialized skills.

            As a corps member, Beverly will be responsible for completing a series of six- to eight-week-long service projects as part of a 10- to 12-person team.   Their first service project will end on December 18, at which time his team will break for the winter holidays and begin a new project in a new location in January.

Twenty-eight teams composed of over 300 Sacramento-based Corps Members and Team Leaders are serving on their first projects.  Seventeen of the 28 teams deploy from Sacramento on November 7 to projects throughout the California, including helping with improvements at national, state, and county parks, assisting with food bank donations and volunteer management, and mentoring children. The eleven remaining teams are working on projects throughout the Pacific Region in Utah, Oregon, Washington, and Montana.

There are four other NCCC campuses located in Baltimore, Md., Vinton, Iowa, Vicksburg, Miss., and Denver, Colo., each of which is a hub for its respective area of the country, though teams will travel to other regions for disaster relief projects.

            Before joining NCCC, Beverly graduated from Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School in 2015. Beverly said, “I choose to perform a term of national service because I want to be able to explore new places, meet new people and gain fresh perspectives on life. I also want to help my country and my fellow human beings and do my part in positively contributing to society while helping people or communities in need.” Beverly is the child of Michael and Holly Beverly.

            AmeriCorps NCCC members, all 18 to 24 years old, complete at least 1,700 hours of service during the 10-month program.  In exchange for their service, they receive $5,775 to help pay for college.  Other benefits include a small living stipend, room and board, leadership development, team building skills, and the knowledge that, through active citizenship, they can indeed make a difference.  AmeriCorps NCCC is administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service.  For more information about AmeriCorps NCCC, visit the website at www.nationalservice.gov/nccc.

Submitted by AmeriCorps NCCC

Montgomery Catholic Sophomore Named Private School Player of the Week by Montgomery Quarterback Club

William Hooper was named Private School Player of the week by the Montgomery Quarterback Club for his performance October 23 on the road against Bullock County. A sophomore linebacker, Hooper had his best game of the season finishing with 18 tackles in Catholic’s effort against Bullock County.  He will be honored at the November 10, 2015 Montgomery Quarterback Club meeting. 

William is the son of Ashlee and Conwell Hooper of Montgomery.

Congratulations William! GO KNIGHTS!

MONTGOMERY CATHOLIC PREPARATORY SCHOOL DRUM MAJOR - BEST IN CLASS.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Drum Major, senior Logan Stevens has been recognized as best in class, receiving 1st Place Drum Major Bronze Class/Red divison and Most Outstanding Drum Major Bronze Class at The Contest of Champions hosted by the Jacksonville State University Marching Southerners.  The competition was held on Saturday, October 17, 2015, with over 30 high school bands in four Classes competing. Pictured is the Montgomery Catholic Marching Knights leaders, they are: Isabella Padilla, Marissa Dogan, Skye Alexander, and Anna Marie Koerner, back row: Henry Petters, Eric Crenshaw, Katie McDaniel,  Mary Reagan Starrett, Logan Stevens, Beth Vaughn,  Adam Bristol, David Bender, and Maddie Losik.

Montgomery Catholic 6th Grade Field Trip for Mass of Consecrated Life

Forty-five Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School 6th grade students traveled to Mobile, Alabama to the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception for the Mass of Consecrated Life on October 9, 2015. The students along with their teachers Mrs. Mary Pears and Mrs. Lori Riggles, principal Mr. Matthew Monson and counselor Ms. JoAnn Erhardt traveled by bus to celebrate Mass with Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi. The students enjoy having lunch in the square after Mass and returned just in time for the varsity football game that evening.  Mrs. Pears said, "The Mass was beautiful, and it is always special to be with Archbishop Rodi."

Pictured are the sixth grade students in front of the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. They are: Catherine Aaron, Tess Barwick, James Bender, Ethan Binns, McKinely Boyd, Cecelia Crawford, Samantha Day, Cade Delgado, Connor Donaldson, Jacob Downes, Will Driver, Ansley Erhardt, Ailish Gilbert, Carissa Gilbert, Cadence Golden, Angeles Gonzalez, Mallory Hildebrand, Brandon Hinkley, Grace Hoffman, Trey Holmes, Henry Holzimmer, Blair Huffman, Zach Izer, Michael Jones, Layne Jordan, Andres Lemuz, Aidan McNeely, Gabby Means, Anna Nekic, Ella Newell, Will Noell, Brian Povilus, Matthew Reardon, Samuel Rogers, Noble Seale, Gibson Souriya, Shawn Sponsler, Jordan Stokes, Jake Talbot, Alex Thurman, Maggie Turner, Alex Wieser, Auburn Wilcoxson and Hart Yost.

Montgomery Catholic Places Second at West Alabama Science Olympiad Competition

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School competed in the Elementary Science Olympiad competition at the University of West Alabama in Livingston, Alabama on October 20, 2015. The team brought home second place overall. Twenty Science Olympiad teams from all over the state competed in the event.

Montgomery Catholic's team was comprised of fifth and sixth grade students led by teachers Allison Boyd and Lori Riggles. Fifth grade participants were Danielle Willcox, Alexander Villena, and Amy Treloar; sixth grade participants were Catherine Aaron, Samantha Day, Cade Delgado, Cadence Golden, Angeles Gonzalez, Trey Holmes, Samuel Rogers, Shawn Sponsler, Jordan Stokes and Maggie Turner.

Individual event winners for the day included:  Solid, Liquid, or Gas - 1st place: Jordan Stokes, Angeles Gonzalez; Orienteering - 1st place: Samuel Rogers; Leaf & Tree Finder - 1st place :Catherine Aaron, Maggie Turner; Name the Scientist - 2nd place: Jordan Stokes, Angeles Gonzalez; Deep Blue Sea - 1st place: Trey Holmes, Samantha Day; Starry, Starry, Night - 1st place: Samuel Rogers, Samantha Day; Pasta Bridge - 2nd place: Samantha Day and Samuel Rogers.

Congratulations on an outstanding performance!

Montgomery Catholic Volleyball Team Honors their Seniors

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Senior Volleyball players were honored at their last home contest on Tuesday, October 6, 2015. The Class of 2016 players are from left to right: Kristi Davison, Sarah Murry, Agnes Armstrong and Emily Barranco.

Kristi is the daughter of Kenneth and Janis Davison. She has been a part of the volleyball program since the eighth grade. She plans to pursue a degree in nursing and hopes to play volleyball in college. 

Sarah is the daughter of John and Rebecca Murry. She has been a part of the Montgomery Catholic volleyball program since the seventh grade. She was awarded All-Tournament player in 2014 and she would like to continue her athletic career in college. 

Agnes is the daughter of Brett and Joanie Armstrong. She has played volleyball for six years, the team Captain this year she previously won the Sportsmanship award in 2014. 

Emily is the daughter of Steve and Dawn Barranco, she has been a member of the volleyball program since seventh grade. A team Captain this year, she was named MVP in 2012 and received the Coaches award in 2013. 

The seniors are pictured center court with their parents before their last home match.

From left to right: John, Sarah and Rebecca Murry; Kenneth, Kristi and Janis Davison; Steve, Emily and Dawn Barranco; Brett, Agnes and Joanie Armstrong.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Recognizes 55 4th-6th Grade Students who Qualify for Duke TIPs

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School recognizes 55 students who have qualified to participate in the highly selective 4^th-6^th Grade Talent Search offered through the Duke University Talent Identification Program (TIP).  These students have score in the 95th percentile or higher on subtests of nationally standardized tests in the spring of this year.  

Duke TIP has helped gifted students identify and realize their full potential since 1980.  As a non-profit organization, their goals are to help exceptional students achieve maximum success in school and in life, and to provide schools and parents with the resources they need to meet the unique academic, social, and emotional needs of gifted children.

Participation in the 4^th-6^th Grade Talent Search offers students opportunities such as an online curriculum, optional above-level testing, educational programming, newsletters for students and parents, and independent learning materials. 

Students at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School who have qualified for Duke TIP recognition are Catherine Aaron, Cannon Bach, Mally Barranco,  Tess Barwick,  Owen Beesley,  James Bender, Brennan Binns, Ethan Binns, Nicholas Calandra, Hannah Chitlik, Lily Coulombe, Cade Corbin, Savannah Decker, Dalton DeRamus, Lena Duncan, Ansley Erhardt, Esa Gancayco, Ailish Gilbert, Ariyn Gilbert, Carissa Gilbert, Ainsley Harrison, Kaylee Holmes, Hunter Hodges, Harrison Howell, Zach Izer,  Layne Jordan, Shannon Kille, Ivan Klemen, Matthew Livingston, Natalie Magee, Madison McMullen, Nick Montelara, Isabella Munoz, Ella Newell, Will Noell, Ben Nguyen, Abby O’Donnell, Ryan Parker, Tyler Peeler, Kathryn Reardon, Matthew Reardon, Joseph Reeves, Samuel Rogers, Gabe Russo, Sarah Souriya, Jake Talbot,   Audrey Trant,  Amy Treloar, Maggie Turner, Thomas White, Alana Wilkinson, Danielle Willcox, Cas Wilson, Hart Yost and Laura Thomas Zhvania.       

Photo: Montgomery Catholics’ Holy Spirit Campus Duke TIP Qualifiers: Front row: Cade Corbin, Esa Gancayco, Laura Thomas Zhvania, Mally Barranco, Ben Nguyen, Isabella Munoz, Ryan Parker, Hunter Hodges, Jake Talbot, and Ivan Klemen.  Back Row Carissa Gilbert, Catherine Aaron, Harrison Howell, Owen Beesley, Gabe Russo, Cas Wilson, Zach Izer, Ella Newell, Maggie Turner, and Tyler Peeler.

Photo: Montgomery Catholic's St. Bede Campus Duke TIP Qualifiers: First Row: Madison McMullen, Sarah Souriya, Savannah Decker, Nick Montelara. Second Row: Cannon Bach, Brennan Binns, Lily Coulombe, Dalton DeRamus, Ariyn Gilbert,Joseph Reeves, Hannah Chitlik, Natalie Magee, Abby O'Donnell, Thomas White, Kathryn Reardon, Audrey Trant, Alana Wilkinson, Nicholas Calandra. Third Row:  Kaylee Holmes, Matthew Livingston, Lena Duncan, Ailish Gilbert, Hart Yost, Ansley Erhardt, Matthew Reardon, Layne Jordan, Will Noell, Samuel Rogers, Tess Barwick, James Bender, Ethan Binns, Amy Treloar, Shannon Kille, Ainsley Harrison. Not pictured: Danielle Willcox.

Submitted by Mary Kelley

Montgomery Catholic's Mu Alpha Theta Honor Society Welcomes Auburn University's Katherine Perry to Campus

Montgomery Catholic's chapter of Mu Alpha Theta hosted “Saving the World, One Graph at a Time”.
Pictured; Mrs. Terrica Carlisle, Nadine Moussalli, Auburn's Katherine Perry, Claire Fischer and Dr. Joe Profio. 

On the afternoon of Monday, October 5, 2015,  Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School's chapter of Mu Alpha Theta hosted a community event in the school library for those students and parents interested in geometry and beyond. “Saving the World, One Graph at a Time” was presented by Auburn University Graduate Teaching Assistant Katherine Perry. Perry was introduced by MCPS senior Nadine Moussalli, before giving an introductory talk on graph theory and its applications. 

Mu Alpha Theta is a national honorary for students who distinguish themselves in Mathematics.In its second year, the Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Chapter of Mu Alpha Theta officers were introduced, they are: Nadine Moussalli, President and Claire Fischer Vice President. The chapter is sponsored by MCPS high school math teachers Mrs. Terrica Carlisle and Dr. Joe Profio. After Perry's presentation, the attendees were invited to stay for continued conversations and dinner. 

Inductions of new members will be held in November.

Montgomery Catholic's Stevens Overall Best Drum Major at Lake Martin Invitational Band Competition

The Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Marching Band attended the Lake Martin Invitational Band Competition in Alex City on Saturday, October 3, 2015. The Band did quite well bringing home all superior ratings and Best-in-Class Drum Major for Montgomery Catholic senior Logan Stevens.

Superior ratings were received in the following categories: Overall Band, Percussion, Color Guard, and Drum Major. Stevens award named him Best in Class Drum Major in class 2A.

The 2015 Montgomery Catholic Marching Knights are: Skye  Alexander, Ryan Avery, Maria Barragan, Anna Catherine Barranco, Bailey Batten, David Bender, Nick Bowden, Adam Bristol, Marie Bristol, Cammie Brown, Kaelen Brunson, Ralph Clements, Bobby Crawford, Eric Crenshaw, Marissa Dogan, Lainie Doyle, John Faulkner, Kernessia Gadson, Jonah Gier, Ezequiel Gonzalez, Francisco Gonzalez, Jonathan Guevara,Victoria Hall, Ashley Hayes, Cheyenne Hayes, Savannah Johnson, Anna Marie Koerner, Ashleigh Little, Maddie Losik,Katie McDaniel, Sean Moore, Zach Moore, Jevon Murdock, Charlie O’Donnell, Isabella Padilla, Clayton Peeler, Jackson Penso, Katie Perkins, Henry Petters, Jeremy Ramirez, Annie Reed, Darian Riley, Hyuntaek Seo, Alex Smith, Mary Reagan Starrett, Logan Stevens, Emily Talbot, Maggie Tippett, Ricky Treloar, Hannah Vaccaro, Beth Vaughan, Chris Waring, Angela Wheat,Clint Williams, with Band Aides: Jasmine Blakeney, Angela Gier, Connor Lee, Koen McDaniel, Emily Riggles, Kyla Stinson,  and Cacey Williams.

The Band is directed by Mr. Alex Johnson and Color Guard is coached by Mrs. Sarah Rech and Mrs. Maggie O'Donnell.

Pictured are 2015 Marching Band members: Isabella Padilla, Marissa Dogan, Henry Petters, David Bender, Adam Bristol, Mary Reagan Starrett, Logan Stevens, Beth Vaughn, Maddie Losik, Katie McDaniel, Eric Crenshaw, Skye Alexander, and Anna Marie Koerner with the Band's Lake Martin Invitational trophies.

15th Annual Partners In Catholic Education Golf Tournament at RTJ, September 25

Partners In Catholic Education (PICE) hosted its 15th annual charity golf tournament at the Capitol Hill Robert Trent Jones Golf Course in Prattville on September 25, 2015.

Attorney General Luther Strange, PICE founder Liz Sutton, PICE volunteer Patty Debortoli and Dr. David Bronner
enjoy the reception after a great day at RTJ in Prattville for the 15th Annual PICE golf tournament. 

A great day for the 180+ golfers in attendance, registration and lunch began at 11:00 am and the shotgun start, on both the Senator and Legislator courses, started at 1:00 pm. Format was best ball. The registration fee included lunch, green fees, cart, range balls, gift bags for each player, golf shirt, refreshments on the course, post-tournament food and beverages, and door prizes for everyone. There were Hole-In-Ones consisting of a new car on both courses. There was also a putting contest between 11:00 am and 1:00pm for a cash prize and the top three net and gross teams received superb prizes.

Partners in Catholic Education (PICE) was established in 1995 to bridge the Catholic Community with St. Bede School.  PICE now supports the Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School community with the following annual projects: The PICE Annual Golf Tournament, Career Day for the Middle School and the Senior Success Forum.

PICE founder and Montgomery Catholic graduate Liz Sutton '77 with her sons Joseph '12 and Thomas '09 at the 15th annual Partners in Catholic Education Charity Golf Tournament.

PICE has contributed over $1.1 million dollars in projects and equipment to Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School since the beginning.  For the 15th anniversary of the Tournament PICE made it extra special, by adding specialty tents on each course with extra giveaways throughout the day. Held each year on the last Friday of September, be sure to mark your calendar for this premier event that will be a great day of fun and benefit for Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School.

Take a look at just a sampling of the support PICE has provided over the years to Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School:
Technology/Academic enhancements:  Macbooks Airs (2015), Robotics (2014), infrastructure for Apple Computer System (2012), Ipads and Ipad carts (2012), Smart Boards (2007), Computers (2006-2007).
Campus enhancements:   Playground equipment for St. Bede (2015) and for Holy Spirit (2013), Dolly Barranco Center sound system,  Campus-wide Security System (2008),  Contributions to Capital Campaigns for Family Life Center, Dolly Barranco Center, and to the Holy Spirit Gym, Bathroom renovation (2010),  St Bede Campus renovation (2006) Teacher's Lounge renovation, Science lab and computer lab equipment.
Arts:  Band instruments (2008, 2015),  Art Center renovation (2005), Band uniforms (2005),
Athletics:  Athletic lockers (2015), Athletic locker room (2013), Partnered with the City of Montgomery in building of tennis courts at Ida Belle Young Park (2010),  Student life:  Large bus (2015), Minibus (2010), Annual Senior Success Seminar, Annual Sophomore True Colors Seminar, contributions towards speakers such as Scott Hahn, Jodee Blanco and Marie Bellet.

The PICE Board of Directors are Officers: Liz Sutton, Founder; Gary Tomlin, President; Jerry Lopez, Vice-President; Ann Karst, Treasurer; Members: Linda Anderson; Linda Guin, Lisa Sadie, Kathy Tyner and
Barry Waite. This year PICE honored Carole Clark, a dear friend and long time PICE Secretary who was lost to her battle with cancer this past year. The Board of Directors gave players and volunteers pink visors to wear in her memory.

For more information about sponsorships or playing in the tournament, contact Liz Sutton at 334-260-2488, ext 1311, Vicki Dickson at 334-272-7221, ext 32, or Jerry Lopez at 334-224-6607. PICE is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. More information can also be located at http://www.montgomerycatholic.org/.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Crowns 2015 Homecoming Queen & King

Montgomery Catholic Alumni
Reese Smith and Carlye Schmidt
return to Montgomery Catholic to crown
the 2015 Homecoming King and Queen

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School crowned their 2015 Homecoming Queen and King during the half-time ceremonies of the varsity football game as the Knights hosted Holtville High School, September 25, 2015. The school was honored to welcome back the 2014 Homecoming King and Queen, Miss Carlye Schmidt and Mr. Reese Smith to crown the 2015 Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Homecoming King and Queen. Carlye is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Brian Schmidt and is a member of Saint Vincent DePaul Catholic Church. She is currently majoring in Psychology at AUM. Reese is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Smith and is a member of Saint Peter’s Catholic Church. He is currently majoring in Computer Engineering at Auburn University Montgomery.

The Montgomery Catholic Homecoming Court included: Senior attendants, Agnes Armstrong, Eryka Ellington and Nadine Moussalli.

Agnes Armstrong is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Brett Armstrong and is a member of the Church of the Holy Spirit.  She has played varsity volleyball and softball for MCPS.  A member of the National Honor Society, Agnes also participates in SGA, Key Club, Youth Judicial, and Women’s Leadership.
Agnes was escorted by Michael Collins. Michael is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Collins.  A member of his youth choir, Michael attends Mercy Baptist Church.  He also participates in Football, baseball, basketball and is a member of member of the National Honor Society.

Eryka Ellington is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Ellington Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. She cheers for MCPS and is an active participant in the Shield Bearers and National Honor Society.  Eryka further serves her community by volunteering at church. Eryka was escorted by Blake Johnson
Blake is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Johnson and is a member Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church.  He is a member of the Varsity Football and baseball teams.  Blake is also actively involved in Men’s Leadership, National Honor Society, and his church youth group.

Nadine Moussalli is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samir Moussalli and is a member of Church of the Holy Spirit.  She participates in soccer, basketball, youth judicial, shield bearers, and SGA while maintaining member ship in Mu Alpha Theta and the National Honor Society.  She remains active outside of her school community as a Core Team Leader and Sunday School assistant. Nadine was escorted by Patrick O’Mara
Patrick is the son of Colonel Raymond and Mrs. Michele O’Mara and is a member of the Holy Family Catholic Community at Maxwell Air Force Base.  He has played Varsity Baseball for MCPS while participating in National Honor Society, Science Olympiad, and Junior class president.  An Eagle Scout, Patrick has also been selected as a Daedalian Flight Scholarship Winner.

Junior Attendant: Gabrielle Dallas, Gabrielle is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Dallas. Gabrielle is a member of Hallstreet Baptist Church.  She plays basketball for MCPS and enjoys working for the Montgomery Biscuits. Gabrielle was escorted by Morris Albert Lottinger IV. Morris is the son of Morris Lottinger III and Charlene O’Rourke Fincke.  Morris is an alter server a St. Peter’s Catholic Church.  He is also member of the Track and Field team for MCPS.

Sophomore Attendant: Annabel Catherine Starrett,  Annabel is the daughter of Marc and Audra Starrett. She is a member of Church of the Holy Spirit.  She has been an active member in Youth Judicial as well as cross country and track and field. Annabel was escorted by Parker Dennis. Parker is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis.  He is a member of Centerpoint Fellowship Church. Parker plays football and basketball for MCPS.

Freshman Attendant: Katherine Koontz, Katherine is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Koontz. She attends Frazer United Methodist Church.  Katherine plays varsity soccer and junior varsity volleyball for MCPS while remaining active in her church choir. Katherine was escorted by Joseph Tate Holifield.
Tate is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Holifield.  He attends Frazer United Methodist Church.  He has played for MCPS football and soccer teams.

Miss Eryka Ellington and Mr. Michael Collins were announced as the 2015 Montgomery Catholic Homecoming Queen and King. They were crowned by Miss Carlye Schmidt and Mr. Reese Smith from the Class of 2015.

The 2015 Montgomery Catholic Homecoming Court, pictured from left to right: Freshmen Attendant Katherine Koontz escorted by  Joseph Tate Holifield; Junior Attendant Gabrielle Dallas escorted by Morris Albert Lottinger IV. Senior Attendant Agnes Armstrong escorted by Blake Johnson. Homecoming Queen & King, Eryka Ellington and Michael Collins. Senior Attendant Nadine Moussalli with Patrick O'Mara. Sophomore Attendant Annabel Catherine Starrett escorted by Parker Dennis. Photo by Total Image.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School welcomed all Alumni home with an Alumni party at the Homecoming game from kick-off to half-time. Alumni, including the class of 1965 celebrating their 50th reunion, the class of 1985 celebrating their 30th reunion and the class of 1995 celebrating their 20th reunion were able to enjoy a delicious meal from Jim-N-Nicks Bar-b-Que, and catching up with old classmates and coaches. Coach Cliff Little, Coach Ed Jones and Coach Woody Weaver all made an appearance under the tent.

Mr. Marty Taylor from the Class of 1948 joined the Knights football captains at the homecoming game as an honorary captain. Marty wore the number 12 and was on the first Montgomery Catholic football team which was founded in 1945. He was one of only five students who went out for the beginning squad. After recruiting the rest of the team a new legacy unfolded and has continued with pride for 70 years. Montgomery Catholic coach and Mr. Taylor's grandson, Alex Taylor along with Mark Taylor (Marty's son and Alex's father) presented Marty with a game jersey. A Montgomery Catholic commemorative coin was used for the coin toss and given to Mr. Taylor to mark to occasion,

along with heartfelt thanks to him and all the men who have played football for the Knights.

Montgomery Catholic students celebrated Homecoming Week at all campuses with a host of daily activities including the Homecoming Bonfire and mini-parade held on Thursday evening at the Middle/High School Campus for K4-12 families. Alumni Pat McGinn '85 had the honor of lighting the fire. Friday the Middle and High School ended school with a pep rally. President, Anne Ceasar added fuel to the fire by burning the mortgage and Mrs. Ceasar announced that Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School is debit free. A Friday night victory over Holtville (33-14) led to a fun night as the High School campus ended the week with their Homecoming Dance on Saturday, September 26, 2015 held at the Montgomery Catholic Holy Spirit Campus Gym. The theme was Carnival.

Founded in 1873, Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School is an integral part of the Catholic Church's mission to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ.  As an adult community, we share in the responsibility to prepare students for college and beyond while helping them grow to become persons of faith, virtue and wisdom.