May NN RR · To teach, to educate, to form East Lake Academy Newsletter, May 2013 1

To teach, to educate, to form

East Lake Academy Newsletter, May 2013 1

EAST LAKE ACADEMYEAST LAKE ACADEMY

NNEWSLETTEEWSLETTERR www.eastlakeacademy.org

May 2013

Virtue of the Month:

Gratitude

EAST LAKE HAPPENINGS

Upcoming Events: Please mark your calendars.

08/19 - Faculty Returns

In Service Week 8/19-8/23

08/24 - ELA Picnic

08/26 - 1st Day of School

Dismissal 11:00am PreK-8th

08/27 - 1st Full Day of School

08/28 - New Parent Orientation 8:30am

09/02 - No School - Labor Day

09/04 - 1st All School Mass - 11:10am

09/06 - 1st Friday Mass - 7:20am

09/19 - Parent Back to School Night

7:00pm

Make your plans now for an entertaining and educational summer!

This year the summer program begins on

Monday, June 19 and runs through Friday, August 16

JOIN US FOR...

Spend the afternoon at Lake Bluff’s Olympic-sized pool or relax on the shore of Lake Michigan at Sunrise Beach.

Summer Field Trips Shedd Aquarium Orbit Skate Rink Sci Tech Museum Scaumberg Bloomer’s Game

This Year’s Themes Safari

Star Wars Retro

For information or to sign up contact:

Barbara Campanella 847-247-0035

IN THIS ISSUE

East Lake Happenings 1 Summer Program 1 Student Perspective 2 Language Arts Night 2 Upper School Math Curriculum Update 3 Gala 2013 4-5

Dean’s Update 6 Economic Poster Contest 6 Grandparents Day & May Crowning 7 Spanish Heritage Day 7 Apostolic Update 8 2nd Grade Retreat 9 Knights of the Altar 9 STRIVE Girls 10 Milwaukee Discovery Museum 10 STRIVE Boys 11 A Birthday Gift to Father Matthew 11 Principal Update 12 Our New Chaplain 12 The Blessings Continue at ELA 12 Admissions Update 13

Blessed Mother Laura Montoya 13 East Lake Academy of Music Update 13 Classroom News & Views 14 Prek Corner 14 Science Phun Day 15 Technology Update 15 Art Update 16-17 Farewell 18 Father Matthew 18 Mary Sarah Ivers 18 In the Spotlight 19 Community News 19

2013

Our Town - Favorite Authors - Cooking The Rainforest - Animals - Cooking

The Science of Music - Math Fun - Art Baby Sitter Training - Sewing - Math

Create unique crafts Play exciting games Prepare delicious snacks

Inspiring academics Afternoons at the beach Exciting field trips



Student Perspective

THANK YOU, FATHER MATTHEW By: Max Calk

I am very depressed to see

Father Matthew go.

I have been at East Lake long enough to see the day he first said Mass at the

school.

I will miss how he calls everyone by their names.

I will always remember him saying, “Evan, whose name

rhymes with Heaven,” or “Michael Santangelo, the Holy An-gel”. All of the memorable homilies he has told us over the

years will stay in my heart forever. Stories like meeting

Blessed John Paul II, giving up his seat in St. Peter’s Basilica

and later asked to sit near the Cardinals, and getting lost in

the jungle when he was in the army, I will never forget.

He has played a big role in my, and countless others’, spiritu-al life. He has trained me into a Knight of the Altar, heard my

Confessions and has headed our middle school retreats. I am

glad others will see God through Father Matthew, but I will

miss him. This a very bittersweet moment.

Good bye may seem forever.

Farewell is like the end, but in my heart is the memory and

there you will always be. -Walt Disney

END OF THE YEAR ACTIVITIES By: Hanna Kiernan

Our East Lake Academy school

year is coming to a close!

We ended the year with many

exciting activities.

On June 4th, we had our awards assembly where stu-

dents who earned Perfect Attendance will receive

recognition. Also the Veritas et Virtus, Dignitas et Veri-tas and Semper Altius awards will be handed out.

On Wednesday, June 5th, we had our last all school

Mass.

On the 6th, Due to inclement weather, we celebrated

our annual Field Day at East Lake Academy. For Field Day this year, all grades picked a country and each of

the activities that we participated in had international themes.

Finally, Friday, the 7th, we had 11am dismissal and

received our report cards. The 8th graders also gradu-ated that evening at 4pm at St. Patrick’s Church in Lake

Forest.

It sure was a fun week!

East Lake Academy’s 3rd Language Arts Night On Thursday evening, May 16th, the middle school students showcased their poetry talents by reciting poems, speeches, and sonnets.

“What It Takes to

be Number One”

by Vince Lombardi

“The Speech Against

the Armada”

by Queen Elizabeth

“Gettysburg Address”

by Abraham Lincoln

Recited

by Jack Freeman

wearing a Union soldier hat.

6th grade Recited self-authored poems.

7th grade Recited classical poetry such as Robert Frost and Emily Dickin- son. They utilized a variety of creative props such as a bird cage with a fluttering ribbon to conclude the poem and a pig-stuffed animal!

8th grade Students recited either a Shakespearean sonnet or a famous speech. They prepared for LA Night since mid-March, since each student was required to memorize their sonnet or speech and refine their oratory skills.

New Addition Recitation of two poems in French and Spanish by two 6th grade students.

What a treat!

Congratulations to all the middle school students and

thank you to all the parents for your unconditional support!



Mrs. Patel

In the Fall of 2012, we transferred our 7th grade students into an Algebra I program by McDougal Littell.

For the first three years that we had a seventh grade class at ELA, we used a review of pre-algebra book offered by

Saxon called Algebra 1/2.

We fully support and enjoy using the Saxon curriculum from Pre K through 6th grade, but unfortunately, we were

disappointed in the Saxon Algebra 1/2 book and felt that it did not challenge our students sufficiently.

A parent/teacher/administrator exploratory committee was formed and much research was done on finding a solu-

tion to the problem. Many math programs were researched to find what would be the best fit for our needs.

Ultimately, it was decided that we would begin Algebra I in 7th grade and finish it in 8th grade.

To accomplish our goal, we have split Algebra into a 2 year course of study. Mrs. Fuller currently teaches both Algebra 1A to the 7th grade and Algebra IB to the 8th grade.

(Many schools presently offer Algebra I in 8th grade and attempt to speed through the hefty, high school level material in one short year.)

As this year's 8th grade class is the first class to go through this 2 year cycle, we have been closely monitoring their results. The students' high school placement tests, Stanford scores and their performance in Math class as freshman

will all serve as indicators for us as to the implications of this curriculum change. We have gathered data from our past

graduates as well to compare the results. We are keeping a close eye on how our students and former students are doing in Math to hopefully best meet the needs of our current students and send them forth as confidently as possi-

ble.

Additionally, we will be piloting a Math enrichment program for the

2013/2014 school year for the 8th grade students

For those who enjoy Math and would like more opportunities to study and practice it, we are offering an afterschool Geometry enrichment class for students who have already completed the Algebra 1A course with success. Mrs. Fuller

will also be teaching this 5 day a week afterschool enrichment course for an incremental fee.

If you have any questions about the Math program at East Lake, or any part of our curriculum,

please contact

Mrs. Patel in the office

Our Goal To present Algebra to our students in the

most in depth and thorough manner possible.



Gala 2013 Growing in Grace & Harmony

Mrs. Wernli

On March 16, 2013 a record breaking attendance of nearly

200 East Lake Academy supporters gathered at The Sanfilippo "Place de la Musique" to celebrate

“Growing in grace and harmony.”

Attendees were treated to tours of the private home where they appreciated magnificent collections of beautifully

restored antique music machines, phonographs, chandeliers, art glass and more.

Silent auction bidding took place over cocktail hour as

guests bid on more than 150 exciting packages including...

Handcrafted items made with love by our students

Themed baskets presented by each class and assembled

by our dedicated room mothers

Sports experiences and memorabilia

Spa services

Artwork

The highly coveted teacher time treats

Raffle ticket drawing took place after a delicious dinner. Father Matthew drew the win-

ning raffle tickets.

Special acknowledgement to our students who boosted their efforts in our gala cam-

paign to sell the most raffle tickets in gala history!

Live auction bidding took place during dessert

which was generously donated by one of our sponsors During dessert, generously donated by one of our sponsors, the audience was

entertained by East Lake parent and local comic John Haser who led us through our live auction including our

cherished Letters to God

unique vacation and sporting experiences

a Ravinia picnic and concert package to see Sting perform and more

1ST PLACE

Joseph Puthenveehl

$3000

2ND PLACE

Mari Bacardi

$1000

3RD PLACE

Raymond Salto

$500

4TH PLACE

Maggie VanCamp

$250

5TH PLACE

Jason Miller

Italian Gift Basket



Gala 2013 Growing in Grace & Harmony

Together our efforts raised nearly $60,000!

To all who donated

Thank You We owe our success to all of you.

At the end of the evening, our esteemed guests were

rewarded with a ride on the most spectacular European

salon carousel in existence! We thank all who partici-

pated and look forward to next year!

merchandise

services or their time

purchased advertising or raffle tickets

solicited donations on our behalf and/or

attended the event …



ECONOMIC POSTER CONTEST Mr. Stack

On May 14, 2013 at Dominican University, sixth grade student Kaitlin Zelinski was presented with a Certificate of Award and a gift card. Her economic poster was selected as a Regional Winner in the 2013 Econ Illinois Economic Poster Con-

test entitled "Making a World of Difference."

Thousands of Illinois students in grades one through eight participate in the Poster Contest each year. The Poster Contest gives students an opportunity to

creatively demonstrate their understanding of key economic concepts.

Kaitlin's poster depicts the economic concept of specialization. The Dominican University Center for Economic Education, one of

seven Illinois Centers for Economic Education, se-

lected Kaitlin's poster as one of twelve winning en-tries to receive Regional Awards.

Congratulations, Kaitlin! It is gratifying to see your hard work bear good fruit.

As we finish off another wonderful year,

I can’t help but reminisce on all the great years we’ve had here at East Lake Academy. We started off with 13 children 11 years ago – just a handful of families who took the leap of faith, with

the hopes of finding a good, solid, Catholic as well as academic school , and a handful of teachers, dedicated to loving and educating the few students they had.

Here we are today, going on year 12, blessed with 150+ students! We have physically

grown, going from a one room schoolhouse into TWO buildings, with a

“GYMACHAPACAFETORIUM” (gym that turns into our chapel, cafeteria, and auditorium – all in less than two minutes!). However, even with all the growth and changes, few things do

remain the same – our families’ desire and hope for a solid education and formation for their chil-

dren and our very hard working talented team! This is what makes East Lake different.

Everything in our school has history and a purpose.

THE TABERNACLE we have in our chapel has been generously donated by a family who personally picked it up from Mexico from the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

THE TULIPS we enjoy every spring on our school’s front yard were lovingly planted by one of the mom who has since moved to another state for work.

WHITE BOARDS, SHELVES, AND OTHER FURNITURE in the buildings have been the handy work of some of the dads who generously offered to put them together.

WHEN THERE WERE HARDSHIPS OR LOSSES of loved ones in the families, it was “our own” who gathered to help, to cook for, to comfort, and most of all to pray for the families affected.

East Lake Academy started out as a family and continues to be a community. This is what makes us different.

We educate, we form, we teach, and we love. We are so blessed to have a school that pro-

vides for our children’s academic development, helps form their character, loves them all day long, and most of all,

keeps their soul’s well-being in mind and heart.

Thank you to all of you for another great year! Your support of the school and the teachers has been appreciated!

Year Twelve, here we come!

DEAN’S UPDATE

Mrs. Rosario Echavez

Dean of Academics



Grandparents Day & May Crowning

East Lake Academy celebrated another May Crowning with our Grandpar-ents. Grandparents Day and May Crowning Day were held on Friday, May 10th.

Our Grandparents were invited into classrooms to experience a day with their grandchild. They participated in math classes, poetry, songs and

plays. After time spent in the classroom our Grandparents celebrated with us at our May Crowning Mass. They then finished the day with lunch with

their grandchild. It was a wonderful way to spend the day.

Our blessings are abundant

at East Lake

Academy.

These are words that come to mind to describe the Spanish Heritage Celebration held at East Lake Academy on Thursday, May 2.

The event highlighted the amazing Spanish talents of grades PreK-3 through third grade.

Like all East Lake Academy events, the program started out with student-led prayer in Spanish.

The PreK-3 students then kicked off the event by individually introducing themselves in Spanish and performing two fabulous Spanish songs, “Estrellita, dónde estás?,

a twist on “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star”, and for their final number the PreK-3 sang “Un gato, dos gatos”, a twist on “Where is Thumbkin?”

The Pre K 4 classes demonstrated their mastery of the curriculum by reciting poems and singing songs about expressing ones feelings (Pre K4G) and about activities

we like to do in each season (Pre K4C).

Kindergarten stole the hearts of many with their fun rendition of the popular 2013 Taco Bell Super bowl commercial featuring the Spanish version of the song “We are

Young” by FUN. They also recited a tongue twister poem to demonstrate their mastery of the Spanish alphabet sounds.

First grade gave a religious twist to the popular song “Luna” by Juanes, as they dedicated this song and sung it to the queen

of their hearts, our Blessed Mother.

Second grade entertained us with their out-of-this-world performance of Jesse y Joy’s “Espacio Sideral”.

Third grade had the honor of concluding the program with student written skits and a small play “El Coyote y el

Perro Viejo” or “The Coyote and the Old Dog”. For the finale, the Third grade completed the program with a won-

derful rendition of “La Bamba” with an introduction played on both acoustic and electric guitar by Peter and Jimmy

Murphy.

The program wrapped up with a delicious buffet of different Latin American food for everyone to sample.

Spanish Heritage Day would not have been successful without the hard work of all the students and homeroom teach-

ers. A special thank you to all the parents who helped with set up and take down and to all the Middle School students

and teachers who helped behind the scenes with music, greeting, and helping to calm the nerves of our younger

students . Their leadership skills are exceptional!

A special gracias to all parents, grandparents and friends for attending the program,

providing the deliciously appetizing food and drink, and mostly, for your support of the Spanish program.

Festive!

Entertaining! Spanish Heritage Day

Señora González & Señora Finlayson Rewarding! ¡Qué div

ertido!



The classes have returned from their apostolic visit to the retirement homes and they all had a wonderful time!

Grades K-2 visited Winchester House, Grades 3-5 visited Little Sisters of the Poor St. Joseph’s Home.

Grades 6-8 visited the retired sisters (who are former teachers and nurses) of the Resurrection Order at Queen Convent where they prayed the rosary, socialized with the sisters, and sang some Mass songs in their beautiful chapel. The middle school students also had the opportunity to tour the sister’s living corridors and the “founding” room, where

they learned about Blessed Celine Borzecka, the foundress of the Sister of the Resurrection, and meet Sister Lydia Mary, for whom we will be making spiritual bouquets as she will be turning 100 years old this July 22nd!

This particular apostolic visit was made possible by ELA parent, Dr. Peter Blendonohy, who has been working with the

sisters for twenty years. The students and staff attending this apostolic field trip are grateful to Dr. Blendonohy for his

facilitation, as we learned so much from these beautiful retired sisters!

On Sunday, June 2nd at 2:00pm our Wigs for Kids event took place! Everyone was very excited! Touché Salon in Libertyville has licensed professionals who’ve graciously offered to open the salon on a non-business day, volunteer

their time and talent to cut 10”-12” ponytails, and follow up the ponytail cutting with a free shampoo, cut and style.

We are so proud of our East Lake Academy students and staff who have made a commitment to this endeavor! They

gave selflessly of themselves and improved the self-image of deserving children! Those who participated are:

The Apostolic Committee hopes that this year’s monthly apostolic projects have

assisted our students as they develop leadership skills, minister to others, grow in faith and share their relationship with Christ.

We thank all of our staff and families for their support of our

many missions and events!

APOSTOLIC UPDATE Maureen Kowalski

for one another come to expression and regard others as more important than yourself. In the service of the Lord, work not halfheartedly, but with conscientiousness and an eager spirit. Be joyful in hope, persevere in hardship; keep praying regularly; share with any of God’s holy people who are in need; look for opportunities to be hospitable. Romans 12: 9 – 13

ANNA BIASCO MISS CAMPANELLA

JANE CALK EMMA CONARCHY FAITH CONARCHY

MARISSA DELEON MRS. ECHAVEZ ABBIE GORMAN

STEPHANIE HARPOLD MADELINE HANDRICH

GIANNA HESSLAU MARY SARAH IVERS

COLLEEN ANN KOWALSKI MISS MUNDA

SHAINA ROYER

ISABELLA SAGE PENELOPE SAGE ANDREA SALTO

CAROLINA SOKES NICOLE STEWART

DARIA WERNLI

In brotherly love let your feelings of deep affection



2ND GRADE RETREAT Emily Roman

Our beautiful 2nd grade class had their final retreat at Marytown on April 26th in preparation for receiving their First Holy Communions. Through talks, activities

and the celebration of Mass, the students were able to “fan into flame” their desire

to receive Christ in the Eucharist, or-for those who had already received their First Communion-renew their excitement at this great gift.

Br. Donald, one of the friars at Marytown, started off the retreat with an animated talk on the sacraments. Then, after a

break for snack and some playtime outside, Mary Sarah Ivers and I led a few activities with the students.

Castles First, Mary Sarah explained that Christ is the king of our hearts who deserves

the best kind of castle to live in.

She gave the 2nd graders one drawing of a castle that they smeared with dark

paint to represent what sin does to our

hearts, the castle that we invite our King into.

Then she gave the students a fresh drawing which they decorated

beautifully to show what kind of a castle we want to give Jesus.

Candles

After washing up, Mary Sarah and I talked with the students about what happens when we receive communion: how Christ’s

light enters our hearts and He asks us to share his light with oth-

ers. Each student then received a candle which represented the way they were going to show Christ’s light to the world.

After a special time of prayer, they each brought up their candle

to the altar where Mary Sarah lit it. They then received letters from family members who showed their support for this special

moment in their lives, and ended with Mass, lunch and outdoor games. It was a great day for students and adults alike.

Congratulations to all our 2nd grade First Communicants!

Knights of the Altar

On Wednesday May 15th we were proud to welcome

9 Pages and 2 Knights to the ranks of Knights of the Altar.

Br. Brett

PAGES

Joaquin Christoffel James Murphy Kene Ogbuefi

Andrew Kowalski Peter Murphy William Winemaster

Max Makowski Finn O’Donovan Christopher Zelinski

will now serve all Masses wearing the black cassock and white surplice to signify that they have completed their train-

ing and are fully prepared to serve.

KNIGHTS

Jack Freeman

Ryan Molloy

have attained the highest rank of the

Knights of the Altar.

Please congratulate these students

for their fine work and keep them in your prayers.

God bless!

Castles, Candles & Mass



STRIVE GIRLS Mrs. Finlayson

Our first year of STRIVE has come to an end, and what an amazing year it has been! The final virtue we are learning about is courage. At our first meeting that focus on courage, the girls were blindfolded and led through a unique obstacle course only by the voice of their partner guiding their every step. This obstacle course proved to be quite the challenge not only because it required these unsuspecting souls to get into awkward positions and crawl through uncomfortable things sprawled out on the floor, but also because there were several groups attempting the obstacle course at the same time, so it was critical the girls listened to the correct voice... This challenging lesson of walking out in faith was unsettling for some of the girls, but is an important one to learn, as life will take many twist and turns, pull us in many different directions, and test us beyond what we think is our breaking point. However, the constant through life's ups and downs is the ever present voice of our Savior, patiently and lovingly waiting for us to blind-ly walk out in faith and trust that His plans for us are to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11) At the end of the obstacle course, the girls' experienced God's sweetness with a cookie. Our follow up meeting was held at Rink Side in Gurnee for a Mother/Daughter game of laser tag! Courageous as it is to stand on our own two feet and face ones fears, it is equally as courageous to recognize our human limitations and weaknesses, and allow others to help us. It was a memorable evening filled with fun and laughter. We played two games. One game was mother/daughter teams, the second was mothers vs. daughters. The daughters creamed the mothers... The last meeting of the year was Friday May 31st and was our first annual Lock-in! This is an op-portunity for us to celebrate, remember, and create lasting bonds. We look forward to many more joining us in the new school year.

Any questions regarding the STRIVE Girls' Club and how to join for the new school year, please contact Maritza Finlayson at [email protected]

MILWAUKEE DISCOVERY MUSEUM

The fifth through eighth grade students had a wonderful time on their final field trip to the

Milwaukee Discovery Museum on Friday, May 17.

The students had the opportunity to

walk over, under and through an aquarium!

Some students got to touch sting rays and other

fresh water fish.

A few students took a risk and “rested” on a bed of nails.

Others tried their hand at flying an airplane!

We concluded the field trip by having

a tasty lunch at Culvers!



BOYS’ STRIVE PROGRAM ENDS THE YEAR WITH MOM’S NIGHT CELEBRATION Mr. Young

It was another fantastic year for the Boys’ STRIVE program. A re-cent tradition for the East Lake Academy boys’ club has been to

host a Mom’s Appreciation night towards the end of the school year.

Nearly 20 Moms attended the event on the Friday before Mother’s Day and took advantage of the once-per-year opportunity to experi-

ence an evening of Boys’ STRIVE. We catered in a fabulous Italian dinner, enjoyed an inspirational talk from Fr. Michael Mitchell LC,

and enjoyed watching the annual Boys’ STRIVE video (which has also become a year-end tradition for our club).

The boys also presented their Moms with a signed certificate that they each prepared this year titled the ‘Pledge of Honor’.

It was an energetic night and all 60 participants left with full stomachs and big smiles on their faces.

The ELA STRIVE programs focus on virtue development for our children.

The Boys’ program focused this year on the virtues of Perseverance, Self-Discipline, Kindness, Courage and Hon-esty (4 meetings for each virtue segment). Each Friday night when we meet, the agenda incorporates the virtue into

our talks, group activities, and competitive sports. When 40 boys get together, it can become a bit rambunctious. We separate the boys into age groups to organize the activities to best convey the virtue and to help our boys to grow spirit-

ually while also getting the chance to interact with their peers and have fun.

We also incorporate apostolic activities and other special events into our program

throughout the year. This past year we... Raised money and supplies for an orphanage in Haiti,

Hosted a Christmas party for 15 inner-city boys living in poverty,

Provided 45 volunteers for an evening at Feed My Starving Children and

Organized a visit to MaryTown to learn about St. Maximilian Kolbe.

Have many other fun activities throughout the year, including our annual tower-building competition.

The goal is simple…to provide a safe environment for the boys where they can enjoy time with their peers and their Dads while learning about the key virtues of our Catholic Faith so that we can all grow to be responsible leaders in our community.

The 2012-2013 Boys’ STRIVE video is now available for viewing on YouTube. Please use the search terms ‘STRIVE East Lake Academy’ to find the video…or you can use the weblink: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tzPuEW1wxEk

Any questions about the program or are interested in joining, please contact ELA Dad, Dave Young, at [email protected]

A birthday gift to Father Matthew

On Wednesday, May 22nd, we finally had the opportunity to celebrate Fr. Mat-thew's birthday (which was actually May 9th). Right after Mass, the Kindergar-

ten, 1st and 2nd graders sang This Little Light of Mine, Our God is an Amazing God and He's Got the Whole World in His Hands for Father Matthew.

After the songs, the 4th grade presented Father with an enor-mous birthday card that every student in the entire school

signed. After the presentation, we asked Father to sing for all of us and he did so happily. It was a joyful celebration but we

will truly miss Father Matthew when he leaves us next year.

Fr. Michael Mitchell talks to the

Moms/Boys at our annual Mom’s

Night celebration

Moms and Boys enjoy a catered

dinner from R&V Deli during our

annual Mom’s Night celebration

Dads and Boys pose for a picture following an even-

ing of volunteer work at Feed My Starving Children

(Libertyville, IL) earlier this year

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tzPuEW1wxEk

mailto:[email protected]



For the first time, each grade at East Lake Academy adopted a seminarian to pray for throughout the entire school year.

The 8th grade class adopted the newly or-

dained priest,

Father Tom Byrne Each morning, Mr. Stack and the 8th grad-ers prayed for Fr. Tom and his priestly vo-cation. In October, Fr. Tom was ordained a transitionary Deacon and just this past May 18th, he was ordained to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Chicago.

Fr. Tom at his very first Mass. There were 19 priests at the Mass con-celebrating along with Bishop John Manz of Chicago. Fr. Tom Byrne then came to East Lake Academy to celebrate Mass for our students on Wednesday, May 22nd. It was an honor to have him here. Monthly, we have a Holy Hour at school to pray for East Lake Academy, all of our families and for an increase in vocations to the priestly and religious life. It is a true gift to see the fruit of our prayers come to visit us!

Again, the blessings around ELA are really abundant!

Please join us over the summer as we continue to pray

for the rest of our adopted seminarians as they continue their studies in route to the holy priesthood.

Principal Update

Mrs. Patel

Principal

THE BLESSINGS CONTINUE AT EAST LAKE ACADEMY Mrs. Handrich

The PreK-4C class adopted newly ordained priest Father Kevin McCray. He was ordained to the priesthood in May. His first assignment will be at Queen of Martyrs Parish. It is an Irish parish on the south side of Chi-cago---just west of Beverly (103rd and Central Park). It is made up of firemen, cops, nurses and school teachers, it also consists of union and trades---plumber, electricians, carpenters. The parish is very family oriented, there are 1500 families, 350 students and 200 in religious ed.

OUR NEW CHAPLAIN

Father Michael Moriarty

was also just ordained in December.



East Lake Academy of Music Update

Did you know that there are nearly 40 East Lake students who participate in the Classical Piano Program with Dr. Rasgado?

The objective of this program is to provide the highest possible level of education in classical music and performance.

The approach is academic, like conservatory but friendlier and more flexible.

The children study Hanon, Bartok, Suzuki and other major compositions

of major composers. There children participate in two concerts a year.

We are especially pleased to announce that through the sale of the old piano, a donation from Dr. Rasgado and the keen eye of Mrs. Conarchy, we were able to

move into the building a new piano last month.

If you are interested in learning more about our program or signing up for the

fall, please call the office and leave a message for Mrs. Simutis.

Blessed Mother Laura Montoya

Blessed Mother Laura Mon-

toya, the Colombian found-er of the Congregation of

the Missionary Sisters of Mary Immaculate and of

St. Catherine of Siena, is

pictured in an undated portrait.

Mother Montoya, who died in 1949 after a career spent working with poor indigenous

Colombians in difficult circumstances, was

canonized on May 12 and became the first Colombian saint.

Stella Wagner, an ELA Parent

and a

cousin of Blessed Laura

Montoya witnessed the

Canonization in

Rome.

Everyone has worked hard to wrap up the school year to enjoy the summer.

Admissions is no exception as interest seems to pour in and we are so thankful for anyone who

takes the time to get to know East Lake Acade-

my.

It is bittersweet to see the art work removed from the hallways and watch on as everyone

cleans and packs up the classrooms.

We realize what really animates East Lake are the wonderful, dedicat-

ed, loving teachers, staff, students and parents who spend every day of the school year working up towards our God given potential.

We already have many new families eager to join us next August and I ask that you keep them in your prayers along with any new families

still discerning our school as a “good fit”. Always refer us to your in-terested friends so that we have the opportunity to share what we

love so much about our school.

A special farewell to our graduates who led the school with grace,

maturity and dignity this year. May they continue to be a light of

Christ in the darkness wherever your path leads and know that East Lake will always be their home.

The Admissions office is open through June and reopens again in Au-gust. We will continue to schedule evaluations for applicants where

there are class openings. I wish you a blessed and safe summer.

Love in Christ, Mrs. Simutis

Mrs. Elizabeth Simutis

Director of Admissions

ADMISSIONS UPDATE



CLASSROOM NEWS & VIEWS

PREK CORNER Mrs. Gorman

The Pre K 4 students have become scientists! The children are studying plants and

seeds. They are using their botanist skills to chart, record, illustrate, and predict when and

how a bean seed, or a sunflower seed, will grow. They have created their own version of a

Green House; called a “Sprout House.”

Each class has also used what they have learned about seeds to create a fiction based sto-

ry about a seed.

Sammy the Seed By Pre K4G

Sammy the Seed suddenly felt something cold and squishy all around him. It was even dark! He was scared. Then his head got really wet! Next, he grew legs, a long neck, and hair. BOOM! He turned into a flower! The sun was shining on him and he felt warm and happy.

The Seed By Pre K4C

Henry planted a seed. The seed didn’t grow. So, he gave it water and put it in the sun. The seed grew! It bloomed a beautiful blue flower. There were so many flowers and Henry was happy.

In addition, both classes were blessed with a visit from Mrs. Eglite, who

encouraged the students to become meteorologists!

They not only learned where rain is formed and why it falls from the sky;

but they were able to recreate a rain cloud.

The children have also been excited to take turns bring-

ing home a statue of Mama Mary.

Each child gets a turn to take the statue home and pray

the Rosary with their family.

As a special treat, the child is able to keep the Rosary as a way to remember how important it is to pray the Ro-

sary as a family.



TECHNOLOGY UPDATE Mrs. Patel

Thanks to a generous donor at the 2013 ELA Gala, we were able to purchase another teacher laptop.

We are happy to report that now, each teacher at ELA has a school issued laptop to use in their classrooms.

Over the summer, we plan to update our school internet and phone systems, allowing for better and faster internet con-nection.

The technology committee is still looking for a few more members. If you are interested, please reach out to Mrs. Patel in the school office.


SCIENCE PHUN

Miss Campanella Phun Day in May was egg-cellent! Students were given the mission to build a contraption to keep an egg safe

when dropped from the highest point on the playground.

When they came into class, materials

were spread out all over the floor.

Once they chose their groups and discussed a strategy, it was a race to

grab their desired materials!

After about 15 minutes of construc-

tion, we went outside to put their creations to the test.

Right before their test run, each group

gave an explanation as to how our experiment could relate to our faith.

One group said, "the egg dropping is

like us falling into sin, so we need the

sacrament of Confession."

Another said, "our parachute is filled with air and the egg falls safely, just

like we are filled with the Holy Spirit who guides us."

Afterward, we talked about what we

might do differently if we did the ex-periment again.

It was so fun!

Even some teachers were trying to peer out the windows for a glimpse of

the egg-citement!




ART UPDATE Miss McCarthy

Dear East Lake Academy Parents:

The artwork created by your children is really outstanding! We have been working many weeks on our projects and I am

so proud of all their hard work.

Most recently, students in Pre K3 and have been learning more about the art-

ist Eric Carle.

We discussed how he used collage in his books by cutting and gluing various

painted items to his work. We also talked about the different looking textures he created in his books.

Based on the book The Tiny Seed, each student made a flower using print roll-

ers and stamps to create different looking textures within their work. This was

very exciting for the students.

Students in Pre K4 had the opportunity to paint with stencils. Students learned that

with a stencil, they could create more than one print with the exact same shape. Each

student traced lines around their prints to give the illusion that their picture was in mo-tion!

The Kindergarten class is reviewing how to mix primary colored paints into secondary colors.

Students created secondary colored ice cream cones by mixing two primary watercolors onto their paper. Once the paint dried, students could then color toppings onto their ice cream to

come up with their own flavors!

The 1st grade class has been learning about a new painting style called Pointillism. We talked about

the detail and concentration used in this type of painting and related it to the incredible detail and care that God has put into the creatures that he made for us to enjoy here on earth. Each student

received a picture that entailed one of God’s creations (animal, reptile, fish etc..). By looking at their

creature, students try to draw what they see. After the drawing is complete, students paint their work only in dots, using a Q-tip as their painting utensil.

2nd grade is focusing on how to draw a picture of themselves as adults,

imagining what they would like to be when they grow up.




ART UPDATE Miss McCarthy

Third grade recently finished a painting based on the artwork Sunset in Venice by Monet.

Fourth grade is learning about the artist Marc Chagall. In class, we specifically focused on studying Chagall’s America

Windows displayed at the Art Institute of Chicago. Each stu-

dent created a drawing on top of a sheet of tin foil using sharpie markers. Each drawing was divided into at least six

shapes with black glue to give the resemblance of a Chagall stained glass project.

Fifth grade recently completed an aboriginal art project based around an

animal they might find if taking a trip to Australia.

Our 6th grade class has just completed a

painting involving the graphic lettering of

their name.

In these name compositions, each student was required to design their name using fonts

that one would study in a graphic design class such as a gothic, roman, display, or script

lettering style. Students were given a worksheet that displayed these lettering styles to help them in their design. After drawing their design, students were to choose a color

scheme that they would use to paint their letters and background.

Seventh grade just finished working on a

silhouette design while eighth grade is

working on a collage that relates to a spe-cific memory in their life. Both classes are

practicing various drawing techniques with-in their work.

Each grade is focusing on how to make their drawings look more proportionally

accurate as well as find ways to apply a variety of color and value in their artwork.

We can’t wait for you to see them!

As always, I invite you to come in the building and see the artwork that is displayed on the walls.

The results are beautiful!

God Bless,

Miss McCarthy



Farewell June 4th, 2013

Dear East Lake Academy Family,

Saying good-bye to those you care so much about is always tough, but I cannot leave without a few words to all those who have made my eight years of service at East Lake so unforgettable. Every year I have written a chaplain’s letter for the annual gala program and attempted to put into words what it means to be chaplain for these wonderful children. A chaplain’s job is help all those associated with the school to know, love, and serve our

Lord, and what has made my job so very rewarding has been the remarkable and enthusiastic response by children, parents, and faculty and staff, alike. We, as a family, have sought to live unity and charity to the highest degree, from the oldest to the youngest member of our team. The spiritual fruits are obvious. You truly can see the “East Lake difference” from the moment you walk into the door.

I have been so honored to serve at East Lake, and will always remember the people I have met and worked with here. East Lake has become a part of me. Of course, this is not a complete good-bye. Like an old song says, “Friends are friends forever when the Lord’s the lord of them…” I do hope to visit in the future, but visit or not, be assured that I will be with you in spirit.

I have been told that another school full of children awaits me at one of our other Legionary schools somewhere in the world—that narrows it down to 150 schools! I rather expect I will remain in the USA. I will find out where that school is by mid-June, and will be sure to let you know so you know where to find me. I do look forward to the new challenge, and will count on your prayers to help me bring that same special Seraphim spirit to my new assignment. Like I told the children last week after my last all-school Mass, wherever I go, I will surely be bragging about my children at East Lake Academy, saying, “You’re pretty good…but not quite up to East Lake standards!”

I thank our Lord Jesus Christ for all his abundant blessings upon our beautiful school since its foundation. And I thank all of you for all you have done for me, for all of your support and encouragement, and for entrusting me with the spiritual formation of your children. It has truly been a great privilege and honor.

Yours in Christ, Fr Matthew Kaderabek, LC

P.S. I do not anticipate a change in email address when I move. You can continue to reach me at [email protected].

Dear ELA Community

It has been an incredible blessing and gift to have served at East Lake Academy this past school year as a member of RC Mission Corps. Through my time in the classrooms, at lunch and recess, on field trips, at sporting events, in formation class and on retreats, I have gotten to experience just how special this community is.

Each and every one of the students holds a special place in my heart and has been such a gift to me this year. I cherish so many memories of this past year. Thank you so much to all who welcomed me and made this a home away from home.

Looking back on this chapter of my life, it is apparent how God has led me here to transform my heart. He has given me far more than I could have ever given. As much as I would love to continue my work at East Lake after what a gift it has been, I know that this is not what God is asking. Through much discernment in prayer, I know that God is leading me into a new chapter of my life.

This coming fall I will be attending Catholic University of America in Washing-ton, D.C., where I will be studying Political Science and Journalism.

Although it is hard for me to leave, I remind myself that there are no good byes, just “until next times”. I will forever be grateful for my missionary year and all that I have learned and received.

Please pray for me in my future endeavors and know that the East Lake community will always be in my prayers as well. Yours in Christ,

Mary Sarah Ivers

mailto:[email protected]



We welcome your comments, questions and sug-

gestions regarding this newsletter:

[email protected]

Our Mission The specific mission of East Lake Academy is summa-

rized in the motto, Integer Homo (Latin for "the whole

man"); that is, providing its students with an integral

formation. Our educational program consists of three

essential elements: teaching, educating, forming. To teach means to provide the student with the intellec-

tual capabilities, content and skills needed to respond

to the demands of today's society.

To educate means to train the student in the habit of

intellectual rigor, structured reasoning, and in the appre-

ciation of beauty; it means to cultivate sensitivity,

memory, imagination; and finally, to develop the art of

communication and the ability to express oneself clear-

ly and elegantly.

To form is to lead the student to become a person for

others, with an upright ethical code, sensitivity toward

the needs of others- especially the most disadvantaged

- and an openness to human and spiritual values. . In this way students are prepared not just for profes-

sional success, but also for their self-realization as per-

sons and authentic Christians in the various facets of

their personal and professional lives. .

Administration

Mr. John T. Calk President Mrs. Jennifer Patel Principal Mrs. Rosario Echavez Dean of Academics Mrs. Elizabeth Simutis Admissions Director Mrs. Anne O’Donovan Administrative Assistant Mrs. Kathleen Calk Parent Association Fr. Matthew Kaderabek Chaplain

Faculty

Mrs. Maureen Kowalski PK-3 Mrs. Barbara Campanella PK-4 Mrs. Denean Gorman PK-4 Miss Mary Sponseller Kindergarten Mrs. Geraldine Lagman 1st Grade Miss Carolyn Munda 2nd Grade Miss Elizabeth Friers 3rd Grade Mrs. Julie Biasco 4th Grade Mr. Matthew Nuccio 5th Grade & Grade 4th Spanish Miss Sarah Kinzler 6th Grade Homeroom, Middle School Language Arts & Religion Mrs. Loredana Fuller 7th Grade Homeroom, Middle School Science & Math Mr. John Stack 8th Grade Homeroom, Middle School History, Religion & Math Ms. Marianela Gonzalez Spanish (Grades 3-8) Mrs. Maritza Finlayson Spanish (Prek3-2nd Grade) Miss Katie McCarthy Art & After-Care Director Mrs. Julie Handrich PK-4 Aide & Physical education Mrs. Debbie Sapienza PK-3 Extended Day Miss. Danielle Campanella PK-Aide & After-Care

East Lake Academy 13911 W. Laurel Dr. / Lake Forest, IL 60045

(847) 247-0035

www.eastlakeacademy.org

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

COMMUNITY NEWS

Many blessings and miracles come from our school on a daily basis. Praise God for all the good news!

Avery John Lagman Your continued prayers have been heard and

Avery is finally going home!

After spending seven weeks at Loyola University Medical Center Avery has gained three pounds

and grew two more inches. He has grown to be a healthy newborn with no complications and is

going home at the weight of 6 lbs 3 oz, and is

now 18 inches, God is so good!

He had the care of so many amazing doctors and nurses. We are over-joyed and grateful for all the love and support and we thank you!

You are all in our prayers. Love, The Lagman family

At the age of 4, Sonte Turnage, an ELA 5th grader, started gymnas-

tics when she was enrolled in an introduction to gymnastics class.

Currently ranked #6 in the country for Level 8, on the

mymeetscores.com Top 100 list (http://www.mymeetscores. com/at40.pl?event=AA&level=8&year=2013)

Level 8 Regional Meet: 3rd place All Around, 3rd place Bars,

5th Place Vault and Floor (Region 5 consist of Illinois, Michi- gan, Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio)

Level 8 State Meet: 1st place All Around, 1st place Bars and

Beam, and 2nd place Floor, and 3rd place Vault

Level 7 State Meet: 1st place All Around, 1st place Floor and

Vault, and 3rd place Bars

Level 6 State Meet: 1st place All Around, 2nd place Beam

and Floor, and 3rd place Vault

Currently training pre-elite at Legacy Elite Gymnastics under coaches Jiani Wu and Yuejiu Li (Both 1984 Olympic medalist), also home of An-

na Li 2013 United States Olympic Team Alternate.

ELA 6th grader

KATHRYN KURT

was recently awarded 1st place, the Champion d'expression,

in the Concours Oral Français competition of the Northern Illinois Chapter of AATF (American Association of Teachers of French).

Kathryn competed against other Middle School students for this

prestigious award.

We are proud of her accomplishments!

http://mymeetscores.com/

http://www.mymeetscores.com/at40.pl?event=AA&level=8&year=2013

http://www.mymeetscores.com/at40.pl?event=AA&level=8&year=2013

Documents

May NN RR · To teach, to educate, to form East Lake Academy Newsletter, May 2013 1