Winter Break Is Near, A Message for Seniors, & Dallas Jackson

All but a half school-day stand before us and winter break, which represent the last few hours of the 2020 school year.  Remember school and life before 11 March 2020? Difficult to believe that this painful ordeal began only 10-months ago?

During a recent drive to school, a song came on the radio and one of my daughters asked to change the station because it reminded her of March, and the feelings elicited were intense enough to warrant a change of song. 

For my daughter, the song was a reminder of the pandemic's beginning, a reminder about as gentile as winter in Fairbanks, Alaska. What a stark juxtaposition between our daily life and the look and feel of school before the onset of COVID-19 and now.

Thankfully, there is light emerging from afar. The arrival of a vaccine is the best holiday gift I can imagine. Operation Warp Speed is a public-private partnership initiated by the U.S. government to facilitate and accelerate the development of COVID-19 vaccines. 

The announcement of this project promised deliverables by January 2021. Considering the quickest vaccine to market was for the mumps, which required four years, it was natural for people to be skeptical, and count me among the skeptics. The welcome news of a vaccine is a win for science. Further proof that humanity is particularly adept at solving difficult problems threatening our species.

The CCHS COVID Task Force met for the first time in May.  A fantastic group who worked diligently to help create the conditions for a safe return to in-person learning. Further, this group remained committed to salvaging extracurriculars in some form of fashion. As we near break, I want to thank them again for their efforts and the Superintendent and the entire team members of CPS and CCHS. A team effort made it possible, and never has the adage "it takes a village...." proven to be more appropriate at characterizing the team effort of the community, students, staff, etc. to make this work. 

During the summer months of planning, it is doubtful you could convince even the most ardent optimists to commit to a wager of in-person learning in December 2020, but we remain open and it is a testament to all involved.  

In closing, I tend to speak incessantly about a book I am reading or a podcast I am enjoying, so at the expense of an eye roll of those closest to me, I offer a few suggestions. This is but one of my annoying qualities, and much to the chagrin of those closest to me, I possess annoying qualities in lavish measure. 

Malcolm Gladwell's Obscure Virus Club highlights humanity's temptation to point to a singular event or individual to celebrate monumental achievements, but it is often the small contributions of many individuals compounding over time.  

People I (Mostly) Admire is the newest podcast from the Freakonomics Radio Network. Moncef Slaoui: “It’s Unfortunate That It Takes a Crisis for This to Happen” 

"Born in Morocco and raised mostly by a single mother, Moncef Slaoui is now one of the world’s most influential scientists. As the head of Operation Warp Speed — the U.S. government’s Covid-19 vaccine program — Slaoui has overseen the development and distribution of a new vaccine at a pace once deemed impossible."

For anyone interested, I am reading Ben Macintyre's Agent Sonya. (cue the eye roll) I have read all his books, and they are fantastic. One point of clarification, by read I mean consume a few pages before falling asleep.

I wish everyone a happy, healthy, and safe winter break.  It is a homework free break for all students and staff, so please take the time to rest, relax, reflect, and be grateful.  Please read on for an important announcement for seniors, and some work from an amazing, multi-talented student, Dallas Jackson.  The assignment was for one of Mr. Chris Gauthier's classes. His abilities and past achievements are exceptional, and I know he is quite proud of Dallas. 

With Gratitude,

Michael J. Mastrullo, Principal

A Message From the Chair of Guidance, Dr. Alison Nowicki

Dear Seniors!

Can you believe that we are almost to January??  I'm sure everyone is looking forward to some rest and relaxation over the vacation week!  That being said, there are some upcoming college deadlines that will happen over break.  Please make sure to check your SCOIR Applying list to make sure that it is accurate and that each college you want to apply to has been acknowledged.  If the college is not listed there, or if it is not acknowledged, your materials will not be sent.

Remember - there are two steps you need to take: 1) Add a college to the Applying list, and 2) complete a transcript request form for each college.  Once both of those steps have been taken, you will be all set.

Please make sure to look everything over tonight!  We will not be sending materials after the end of the day tomorrow for those early January deadlines.  Thanks so much for your help!  You are almost there!!

Dallas Jackson

This assignment is designed to get to start thinking about your McDonalization project. 

In your proposal please do the following:

1. Describe what you are going to focus on and how you are going to apply Ritzer's theory (in other words, what points are you planning to make about your chosen subject?) 

2. Describe how you are going to create your project (see the project description below for ideas)

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

Introduction: 

In the tradition of great sociologists, George Ritzer’s notion of “McDonaldization” calls into question the assumption that efficiency and uniformity for profit is progress.  Ritzer sees a McDonaldized world as a place where relations between people break apart and creativity is destroyed.  This may be gloomy, but we should credit Ritzer for neatly summarizing the down side of something many of us take for granted and questioning something that many of us believe we have to accept.

Instructions: 

Ritzer's article was written in 1993 and a lot has changed since then--your job is to update it.  In the spirit of Ritzer, this assignment attempts to give you the creativity to express that you have learned and can update his theory in whatever way makes sense to you.  In other words, human creativity and expression is encouraged.  You can either write the paper described below or you can show that you have learned the material in another way (music, art, dance, graphic design etc.).  

Requirements: 

If you write the paper, please make it at least three pages.  If you opt for a different expression please make sure to include a written description of what you have done.  

Prompt:

Please address one of the following (or one of your own):

1. How the Internet is leading to the McDonaldization of art: consider music, visual art, writing, film etc.

2. How the cell phone has McDonaldized our lives.

3. How Facebook, Instagram or other social media has McDonaldized our lives.

4. The McDonaldization of Concord Carlisle High School (in other words are there things that we do for the sake of efficiency that get in the way of your learning or dehumanize students and teachers?). 

CCHS Chorus Music Video Premiere - "You Raise Me Up"

CCHS Chorus  Music Video Premiere - You Raise Me Up

This video is the product of months of work by a dedicated production team and the students in Chorus.  The students were not singing when this was videotaped, they were lip-synching.  The audio was done separately.  Owen Curtin, of Colonial Sound, synched over 60 individual tracks (each student made their own at home) and blended them into magic.  It was directed by the parent of 2 Chorus kids (and 1 Chorus alum), Joseph Maar, who just happens to be an Emmy winning director.  Isabelle Germino of Minuteman Media Network was our cinematographer and senior editor.  We are so proud of this video and we hope you enjoy it!

 

-Deb Smith, Director of Choirs

CCHS Chorus

Music Video Premiere

You Raise Me Up

Broadcasting on 

Minuteman Media Network all through Holiday Break!

Tune in December 22-January 5

at 12pm, 3pm and 6pm!

Watch on Concord and Carlisle Comcast channels 8 and 99 

or online at https://www.minuteman.media/2407/Public 

 

View on YouTube starting December 22:

Minuteman Media Network

Impending Snow & Its Impact on School, Early College Decisions, Debate Club, & Nia Hislop

Our first snow day appears likely tomorrow, but the hallmark of 2020 is very little of the status quo remains and snow and its impact on school is no exception.  The good news for 75% of the student body, is the way we treat weather disruptions this year allows for a fixed last day of school, which is currently slated for 15 June. 

Seniors, I am sorry to say, but your traditional snow day complete with sleeping late and a missed day of school never to be made up is a thing of the past. This is a state mandate and not my declaration, but I still find it necessary to apologize. 

The decision to call a snow day is a decision that rests with the Superintendent. That announcement could come tonight or tomorrow morning.  Nevertheless, this is the plan if snow makes it impossible to physically attend school tomorrow. On that note, if this happens the building is closed to all students and staff and anyone not responsible for snow removal.

If snow closes the building tomorrow:

Classes will meet as planned but all will meet virtually with no in-person learning. The schedule will not change tomorrow, Thursday, or Friday regardless of whether or not we have snow tomorrow. Power outages are possible and teachers will notify you of contingency plans should that occur. 

Attention Seniors & Parents: Early Decision & The College Process

Winter recess is but a few days away, and seniors can't even celebrate a potential snow day on the horizon. The great Class of 2021 has endured much, more than most, and many months of sacrifice lay ahead. It will test their patience and resolve. Past is never a perfect guide to predict the future, but it is typically a useful tool, but the unprecedented nature of our lives leaves little blueprint to follow. 

College decisions are trickling in, and they are met with excitement and cheers for some and disappointment, frustration, and tears for others. College applications across the country exceed historical norms, which only adds to the anxiety or frustration if the desired outcome is not achieved. 

It is not fair; however, what you have and continue to endure has made you more resilient and battle-hardened than you are likely aware. You must emerge from this experience more resilient than bitter.  

Suppose you are one of the students waiting for a college decision. In that case, I know it feels like the most critical thing in the entire world, and I am not going to try and convince you it does not matter because it matters to you, and that is reason enough to recognize that it matters. I do want to offer some perspective. 

Let's take a brief journey to the future. To fast forward past this pandemic is a luxury most of us wish for, but I want to leap even farther into the future to the year 2040. You are now thirty-eight years old. Maybe you landed a great job in Boston, Silicon Valley, or LA. 

Perhaps it turned out differently, and you are starting another business after a few successes and failures. Or, maybe you just finished post-graduate work, and you are getting married to the person of your dreams. 

Perhaps you are traveling to exotic locations for pleasure, for work, for both. Possibly you are raising two, three, four children of your own. Visualize any of these scenarios, or visualize where you hope to be at the age of thirty-eight. The present moment: good, bad, or indifferent, will have far less impact than you might think.  

I want to remind every student waiting with bated breath that the college you choose will not define you. If you have decided to forego college and pursue a different path, well, this post-high school decision will not define you either. However, you will be defined by how you treat people and what you do with the opportunities that lay ahead. 

Regardless of the path chosen, I urge you to weigh this moment with proper proportion. Congratulations to all of those who received a yes from the college of their choice. I am so happy for you. Be proud. Be excited. Be humble. As poet Wendell Berry said, "you do not know the road; you have committed to a way."

The reality is, we have made this moment in time for seniors far more significant than it warrants, and we all shoulder some of the burden for this.  

I fully recognize sitting in my position; it is easy to tell students, don't worry, it will all work out, but I honestly believe it will. If you do not get into college #1, #2, or even numbers 3, 4, or 5, it will work out; you will end up where you belong. The college that accepts you is lucky to have you, and to the ones that said no, well, use that rejection as fuel to demonstrate their mistake.  

In moments like this, it is difficult, but necessary, to keep perspective. In some respects, this year is defined by hardship, and if the most devastating moment of the year is a rejection letter, then life is good. Know that your family and friends are proud of you, no matter what, and so are we!  

I share a New York Times article I read years ago. Below is a portion of the article I find particularly poignant. I included a portion of it below. It will all work out. I promise!

Warmly,

Michael J. Mastrullo

Letter to their son

Dear Matt,

On the night before you receive your first college response, we wanted to let you know that we could not be any prouder of you than we are today. Whether or not you get accepted does not determine how proud we are of everything you have accomplished and the wonderful person you have become. That will not change based on what admissions officers decide about your future. We will celebrate with joy wherever you get accepted — and the happier you are with those responses, the happier we will be. But your worth as a person, a student and our son is not diminished or influenced in the least by what these colleges have decided.

If it does not go your way, you’ll take a different route to get where you want. There is not a single college in this country that would not be lucky to have you, and you are capable of succeeding at any of them.

We love you as deep as the ocean, as high as the sky, all the way around the world and back again — and to wherever you are headed.

Mom and Dad

How to Survive the College Admissions Madness

Frank Bruni is an Op-Ed columnist for The New York Times. This essay is adapted from his book, “Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be: An Antidote to the College Admissions Mania.”

How to Survive the College Admissions Madness

CCHS Debate Team

The CCHS debate team has been enjoying a very successful season. The team has joined the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA), the Massachusetts Speech and Debate League (MSDL), and the Boston Catholic Forensic League (BCFL - not religiously affiliated). The team is currently comprised of 16 members, and 4 teams have qualified for the Massachusetts State Tournament which will be held on April 10 & 11. Qualifiers so far are Richard Li & Molly Branigan, Grace Waldeck & Evelyn Reidy, Alisha Bhatt & Maddie Edmondson (all 3 teams in Public Forum debate), and Darcy Keenan Mills (in Lincoln Douglas Debate).

Parental support has been crucial since parents receive training and serve as judges for the competitions. Many thanks to Ling Liu, John Branigan, Scott Edmondson, Kerry Moffitt, Adam Adourian, Yongli Ji, and Joy Shen for their service to the team. 

CCHS is coached by Tim Averill of Waring School in Beverly MA, who has been coaching debate since 1971 and took interest in CCHS when parents asked for help and his grandson Wilbur Moffitt joined the team in September of this year.

CCHS is actively recruiting new students, and all interested students are invited to attend our weekly meetings, held on Mondays (via Zoom) at 3:30 PM. For more information, contact Tim at CCHS staff member, Emily McKneight. 

Nia Hislop Named Girls Soccer DCL MVP

Congratulations to junior Nia Hislop for being named the Girls Soccer DCL MVP this year! In addition, Nia was named to the All-Emass, All-State, and All-New England teams (only 11 players in Massachusetts were named All-New England).

Remembering Pearl Harbor, NHS Fall Clean-Up, Cooper Jones, National Signing Day & more

We woke to quite a different morning than Americans did 79 years today. The attack on Pearl Harbor arrived in the early morning on December 7, 1941, "A day that will live in infamy." A date forever time-stamped into the minds of Americans. 

The attack thrust a reluctant country into World War II, a war that ravaged much of Europe and beyond for nearly two years at that point. The Axis Powers attempted to strike a crushing blow against the United States with the hopes of breaking the will of the country before she even entered the war. Thankfully for all of us, the will of that generation would not bend to the want of the enemy.  

It is worth noting that the country spearheading the attack on December 7, 1941, is one of our closest allies in 2020, an essential partner in the defense of democracy. History has taught us that the Allied Powers led by the United States prevailed in the end, but on this fateful day, that was far from a foregone conclusion. 

The attack undoubtedly frightened millions of Americans. The future looked bleak with an uncertain outcome and a quiet understanding of what it would take if we were to prevail.  Millions of Americans sacrificed much for a victory, and more than 400,000 gave the ultimate sacrifice. They prevailed, and although we face a very different enemy in COVID-19, let us draw strength that we too can and will prevail. 

The war changed the course of history: for our country, humanity, and families forever changed bear the scars of this dreadful conflict that uncovered unspeakable evil. 

We are the benefactors of the sacrifice of this generation. The end of the war ushered in a reign of prosperity that marches on, albeit with ebbs and flows, to this day. I can think of no better way to thank and honor the men and women of that generation than to highlight some of our exceptional students. In some respects, these students are their legacy, and it is one to be proud of.  

With Gratitude,

Michael J. Mastrullo 

Pictured above is Andrew Kamionek, Zuhayr Huseni, Anas Benhamida, and  Linda Xu 

NHS / COA Fall Clean up Weekend a Success!

Over two weekends in November, more than thirty members of the National Honor Society volunteered to assist Concord senior citizens with fall clean up work. Students completed a range of tasks including raking leaves, pruning perennials, and planting bulbs at ten different homes. This was the first of what is intended to be an annual collaboration between the CCHS National Honor Society and the Concord Council on Aging.

"It was refreshing to be able to work together with my peers. Lots of community service opportunities have been put to a halt because of COVID-19, but the members of the National Honor Society were all happy we were able to get outside and do community service together." 

-Linda Xu

While the yard work was laborious, it was really satisfying seeing the final product of a raked yard! It was super fun to work with my friends in such nice weather and you can definitely tell just how grateful the seniors are to have a helping hand! -Akshaya Seetharam 

Akshaya Seetharam, Joe Vann, and Stephanie Donovan raking 

Will Delise and Tal Kronrad cleaning out a flower bed

Annie Creamer and Anna Jasinski pruning hydrangeas

Nick and Christian Healy, Ryan Nigborwicz, Joachim Laurent, Arya Naidu, and Vishal Chandra dumping a tarp full of leaves over a stone wall 

- submitted by Vicky Chan and Madeleine Pooler

Cooper Jones Named DCL MVP

Congratulations to senior Cooper Jones for being named the DCL MVP this year! In addition, Cooper was named to the all-Emass, all-state, and all New England teams (only 11 players in Massachusetts were named all New England).

Senior Citizen Luncheon

Last month CCHS Class Government members kept the annual senior citizen Thanksgiving luncheon alive. Students and staff packaged and distributed 260 Thanksgiving lunches to senior citizens throughout Concord and Carlisle. 

All meals were produced in-house by Bryce MacKnight and his incredible staff. Thank you to the Parents Association, the Concord and Carlisle councils on aging, as well as the Concord and Carlisle friends of the aging. Also, thank you to all the generous people who kindly made financial contributions to make this event a success. 

Thanks to all the students who made this event possible and a special thank you to CCHS seniors Zoe Jackson and Julia Clark who put in a tremendous amount of effort mapping delivery routes and managing pickup locations.  Well done, all!

Tess Wood - Global Competence Certificate work with Project Literacy

By Becky Teiwes

We are proud to highlight CCHS senior, Tess Wood, and her Global Competence Certificate work with Project Literacy in Watertown, MA.

On November 10th, 2020, as part of her final presentation for the Global Competence Certificate, Tess Wood gave an incredible summary of the work she did as a volunteer with Project Literacy, a non-profit located in the Watertown Public Library that offers free services to adults learning to read, write, or speak English. Below is an excerpt from her essay:

"I stood there quietly for a moment, seeing how intertwined Daniel’s English ability was with a broader sense of identity. It’s true that language can tell you a person’s story, in some ways. Daniel’s Brazilian accent signals that he comes from somewhere else and that English isn’t his first language. But, when you only hear his accent, you don’t see the hours he spends on the homework assignments I give him. You don’t hear him ask question after question, some of which even I struggle to answer, about the subtleties he’s noticed in someone’s English. You don’t fundamentally understand what it's like to be him: to not speak the dominant language in a society that all-too-often quantifies an English ability with a larger judgment of intelligence."

To read Tess's complete essay, click here. And to see her Google Slide Presentation highlighting her experience, click here.

If you have questions about the Global Competence Certificate, please reach out to Rachel Washa at rwasha@concordcarlisle.org or click on this link for more info. 

National Signing Day

Congratulations to the following students for signing their National Letter of Intent to continue their academic and athletic careers at the next level.  We are so proud of all you have done and look forward to following your career in college.

Pictured below in order:

Roman Ercoli- St. Anselm

Sophia Eckler - Providence

Ryan Grace - Quinnipiac

Gabrielle Mirak - West Point

Connor Trant - St. Joseph's

Charlie Reichle - Georgetown

Marisa Ih

IMSCC is celebrating 40 years of music lessons in our schools with faculty performances posted online through the end of 2020. On October 30, the featured performer of the week was IMSCC alum and recent CCHS graduate Marisa Ih, clarinetist. Marisa's performance, in collaboration with student pianist Naomi Yamaguchi, is online here. Marisa is currently a freshman at Oberlin Conservatory. IMSCC congratulates these students! 

A Heartfelt Thank You on Veterans Day

Wednesday, 11 November

At the request of my daughters, today we spent some time at the cemetery unearthing and cleaning headstones of military veterans. Among the many we cleaned was my grandfather, Thomas Yates.

Thomas was an Army Veteran who parachuted into France on 5 June 1945. The day before D-Day. I have often wondered how he felt boarding the plane. Surrounded by scared men to his left and right, what was going through his mind as he shuffled to the door, jumped from the plan, and floated to the ground? He was wounded in the war but survived.  His brother-in-law, Frances Connolly, drowned the following day, D-Day no less, during the invasion of Normandy.   

My father served in the Army, as did his father, and my Uncle David (son of Thomas Yates) earned a Purple Heart in Vietnam.  

I was too young to thank my grandfathers for their service, and I never told my uncle that I was grateful and proud. Opportunities missed, so thank you, Henry, thank you, Tom, thank you, David, thank you, James. I am humbled by their service, and their sacrifice, along with all members of the armed forces, reminds me that my perceived hardships border on petty and pale in comparison. Even during the trials and tribulations of 2020. 

A heartfelt thank you to all Veterans, and their families, for their sacrifice. It is not just about the men and women in uniform. Lest one forget the enormous sacrifice of all members of a military family. 

Republicans and Democrats are more divided along ideological lines than at any point in my lifetime. Regardless of what side of the aisle you align yourself with politically, let us all unite in sharing our gratitude for our nation's Veterans.  

The great Winston Churchill once said, "Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few." A fitting quote on 11 November.  

With Gratitude,

Michael J. Mastrullo

Ways for Students to Get Extra Help/A Note Sent to Students & Staff

I share information on how students can access extra help, and a brief note I sent to all students and staff this morning.  I hope you have a great day.  

Email to Students and Staff

Not surprising to wake up this morning and realize we still do not have a winner in the presidential election. The outcome might not be decided for days. Whether you care deeply about or are indifferent to the outcome, you cannot control the result. With a finite amount of energy to give, I suggest you focus it elsewhere as the country waits for an outcome to the election. 

I include my blog from yesterday as a reminder of the expectations. Today school will operate normally, and I will reiterate that respect and tolerance will remain at the top of our priority list. All CCHS community members, regardless of their political affiliation, regardless of their political enthusiasm, or political indifference, will be made to feel safe, welcome, and respected today, tomorrow, and beyond. 

If anything is to be celebrated today, it is the fact that our Democracy, our Constitutional Republic, is so ingrained that we nearly take it for granted. The right to vote in our country is sacred, and it is not lost on me that this election year coincides with the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The 1920 Constitutional Amendment was hundreds of years late, but it cemented Women's Natural born right to vote. Something to be celebrated on this day! Be well.

3 November Principal's Blog

Presidential Election 2020 & The CCHS Community

Extra Help For Students

Presidential Election 2020 & The CCHS Community

The 2020 Presidential election illuminates a deep division in American society.  Discussing politics with friends, family members, or even strangers, is a delicate matter that, if not handled gently, can ruin a Thanksgiving dinner quicker than a burnt turkey.   The delicate nature of these conversations is not new or atypical, but nothing in 2020 seems typical, including the presidential election. 

This election is emotionally charged, featuring individuals with passionate positions on both ends of the political spectrum that are well-entrenched. Sometimes, those emotions do not reveal our best selves.  

I have no intention, nor do I have the ability, to eloquently compose something capable of relieving well-grounded anxieties about the presidential election.  The reality is, one-side of the political aisle will be disappointed, and one will be jubilant. 

Our political affiliations do not define who we are as human beings; however, how we handle the aftermath of the election will provide a glimpse of our character.  

It is normal to be happy or disappointed with presidential election outcomes. How these emotions are processed and expressed matters, so if you are pleased with the result, express that happiness with humbleness and proper etiquette. If the outcome saddens you, express that sadness in a healthy way and not in a manner that demeans or belittles others.  It is easy to act appropriately when victorious, but the real judge of one's character can best be determined when exposed to defeat. 

The tumultuous nature of the current political environment is undeniable, but it is not the first presidential election to highlight deep national divisions.  Our country is far from perfect, but one of the United States of America's hallmarks is every four years, we hold an election for the Presidency.  Power is not seized by revolution or by a military coup, but rather a democratic process that allows all citizens of voting age in this country to exercise their right to vote.

This year has been among the most challenging in recent memory, but this country has witnessed and persevered through challenges that at the time seemed insurmountable.  

Remember that students and staff, just like you, sat in schools across this country during immensely challenging times where the fabric of the country seemed destined to break.  

Imagine the years leading up to and after the Civil War; WWI, coupled with the 1918 flu pandemic; the desperate years of the Great Depression; WWII; the Civil Rights movement; these are but a few examples where our country's resolve was tested, and it seemed destined to break us. Our country made it through these challenging times, and we will make it through this one.  Take solace knowing that we are a country of laws, and our Constitution is the world's longest surviving written charter of government.

I make no predictions on the outcome, but I do know and expect that all members of the Concord Carlisle community will be treated with dignity and made to feel safe regardless of the outcome.  Respect need not and will not be deferred on 3 November.  

We can all agree that a community united by a respect for human differences is one we aspire to, and those differences include political beliefs.  Do your best to wake up every day with the intention of contributing to the well-being of others, and remember that the shortest distance between two people is laughter. 

Sincerely,

Michael Mastrullo

Halloween Weekend Warning, Kicks-for-Cancer, Theater Under the Stars & More

All,

With sincere gratitude, I write to express how thankful we are for all the efforts made to this point by members of the CCHS school community for this school year to be successful.  

Seven short months ago, it would have been inconceivable to consider that one of the major, albeit unofficial, metrics used to evaluate a school's success is whether or not they are learning in-person.  

If someone stopped me at Open House 2019 and asked that I answer the question highlighting the major reasons CCHS is among the best public school in the state and beyond, and if my response to that question was, "well, we are learning in person.  Are we not?" That answer in 2019 would border on insanity, and in 2020 it is an unofficial measure of success.  Clearly, we are more than simply open.  Our students and staff have risen to immense challenges and persevered through them.  Be proud!  

I write with cautious optimism about our future and with concern for the impending Halloween weekend. I have written on several occasions outlining the fragility of the current learning environment. We need not look far to discover schools recently closed due to large gatherings.

 We celebrate our ability to remain open on the eve of November; however, it is of momentary utility if we cannot hold on to all that is gained to this point. 

We can agree that in-person learning is best, so I urge most earnestly that you will weigh my words with care and refrain from engaging in any actions that might endanger the safety of others, and force a school closure.

For the greater good, we must make small sacrifices to ensure we remain open.  Temporarily forgoing large gatherings might seem like too large a sacrifice from the eyes of a teenager, but with the benefit of hindsight and distance from my teenage years, I can assure you the sacrifice is small, particularly when weighed against the ramifications for the 1500 individuals who come to CCHS over the course of a school week.  

Please make good decisions that keep us safe and allow us to remain open and retain a modicum of normalcy until this pandemic passes.  I do hope your weekend is filled with laughs and smiles.  

Warmly,

Michael J. Mastrullo

Principal

Please read on for highlights from Theater, Kicks-for-Cancer, and more.

6 October Blog Post

Kicks-For-Cancer

Like just about everything in our lives, Kicks-for- Cancer weekend looked different this year, but the fact that it even existed is a testament to the will of those responsible for making it happen. The enthusiasm demonstrated by our student-athletes was on full display. With a beautiful fall day as the backdrop, the morning began with a slew of volunteers decorating field entrances and providing students with a special atmosphere synonymous with this annual event.

On the fields, the boys and girls soccer programs wore their bright pink jerseys to raise awareness about breast cancer while our opponents from Lincoln-Sudbury donned the teal jerseys for ovarian cancer. The rivalry between schools on the pitch is always fierce, but both teams are united in their love and support of the name on the back of the jersey, which honors a loved one's courageous battle with cancer.

In addition to soccer, CCHS hosted the boys and girls Cross-Country teams from LS on Saturday on our redesigned course that traverses the entire campus. The runners and supporters along the course added to the day's festivities and spirit as they competed in the perimeter of the soccer fields.

Our heartfelt appreciation goes out to the Kicks-for-Cancer committee for their tireless efforts. Coordinating the details for this year's event required creativity, patience, hours of sacrifice, and a sense of humor. A special thank you to coaches and student-athletes to represent the best of our athletic program with leadership and humility. 

Field hockey technically did not have a role in KFC this year due to COVID-19 scheduling issues. Typically, we host Lexington and play the Sticks for Cancer game and participate in a Best Buddies at LHS.  This year non-league games are not allowed, so playing Lexington was not an option. The field hockey traveled to LS and secured a victory. 

I want to thank all members of our athletic program for making this season a safe one.  It took lots of effort and care, but it was, by and large, a success.  

A special thank you to Athletic Director, Aaron Joncas.  His tireless efforts have paid off, and even another surgery on an aging knee did not dampen his enthusiasm or derail our sports programs in any way.  Well done, Mr. Joncas.  

CC Theatre Under the Stars
We all long for normalcy during a year filled with so very little "normal."  CC Theatre Under the Stars provided a few hours over a few days of normal.  It was an amazing event. All the credit in the world goes to the cast and crew, the Director, Melissa Charych, the captain of all things, Ned Roos, and everyone else who contributed to the successful performances.

Last week, the CC Theatre crew and cast proudly presented an evening of five student-directed (including one student-written) one-act plays outdoors in our very first CC Theatre Under the Stars. A talented trio of CCHS Band trombone players opened the evening. 

Up to the very last minute, when high winds whipped through the amphitheater, we were faced with challenges, and, at every turn, students took the initiative and collaborated to meet them. Throughout the experience, the students brought the very best of themselves: leadership, gratitude, compassion, problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity. Here’s to the magic of high school theatre! Well done, all!

Extra Help Available for All Students

National Honors Society Support

If a student wants an NHS tutor, they can contact Madeleine Pooler directly or have one of their teachers reach out. 

The student and tutor connect to determine whether they want to meet in-person or virtually, where they would like to meet, and what time of day (before/after school, during free blocks).

Wednesday Afternoon Tutor Support

Students can access an additional support system utilizing our amazing CCHS tutors from 11:35-2:41 every Wednesday.  Students can attend either in person or virtually. 

SSERC & MARC Tutoring Support

We are also offering extra-help for all students through the SSERC and MARC.

There is no sign-up needed; however, tutors may turn students away if the numbers attending exceed the health and safety guidelines.  

SPED Program Tutoring

Currently, we are offering supports for our Special Education students through our various Special Ed. Programs (WRAP, LEAP, Harbor, Bridge, Alt Pro, and Pathways).

*Please note that LEAP (room 308) and BRIDGE (room 301) tutors set up individual zoom links, so students are encouraged to reach out to their teachers or LEAP / BRIDGE staff to do so unless they intend to come in for in-person support. 

Grade Dates & No Homework Nights

Kicks For Cancer, Field Hockey Captains, CC Theatre, Picture Day, On-Line Transcript Access & More

It is difficult to believe, but it is mid-October.  We opened the doors this fall filled with hope, cautious optimism, and a tremendous amount of uncertainty. Each day brings new challenges to solve, and a community-wide effort to sustain a successful opening.  Never one to shy away from a challenge, but 2020 has provided plenty to test our resolve and resourcefulness.  In an effort to make this the most daunting year in the last 50, we are in the midst of the final weeks of a bitterly contested election contest. I am eager for the election to be in the rearview. I make no predictions on the outcome, nor the aftermath, but I do know that our students regardless of political affiliation will rise to the challenge, and maintain proper decorum.  Respect need not and will not be deferred on 3 November.  

There are few things I enjoy more than watching high school students perform for our school. High school athletics, theatre, music, and the arts are not immune to changes imposed by the pandemic, but watching our students run around in their chosen sport this fall has brought me joy.  It is what they want to do and I am so glad they are.  I am equally excited about the upcoming Theatre production.  A team of students and staff led by CCHS Director and teacher Melissa Charych continues their preparation for an upcoming show.  I can't wait.  

Wishing you all a fantastic fall weekend!

Michael J. Mastrullo

Field Hockey Captain Video

Varsity field hockey captains typically use the annual parent social event as an opportunity to share their experiences in the program. The pandemic canceled the event, but it did not stop the field hockey captains from sharing their stories.

Please take a moment to watch the video made by 2020 captains Julia Clarke, Courtney Piper, and Emily Stone. Well Done!

Video Link

Picture Day

Pictures will take place outside in a designated area on Monday, October 19, Cohort A, and Tuesday, October 20, Cohort B. Rain Date - Thursday, October 22, and Friday, October 23.  For order information Click Here and 2020 COVID Protocol 

2019 Photo Taken by William Owen

CC Theatre

CC Theatre proudly presents CC Theatre Under the Stars, an outdoor evening of five one-act plays about identity and relationships, who we are and how we relate to one another.  Performances will take place Thursday 10/22, Friday 10/23, and Saturday 10/24 (rain date Sunday 10/25) at 7:00pm outside in the CCHS amphitheater. Tickets will be available on the CC Theatre website cc-theatre.com. 

All audience members should wear masks and maintain social distance throughout the entire performance. Content warning: Some plays contain mature language and content that may be considered inappropriate for children ages 12 and under.

Kicks For Cancer

Kicks for Cancer Virtual 2020 has launched and needs your support!  Although our lawn signs are sold out, we still need your help.  Please join the Kicks Team and make a donation today.  Read the compelling stories of the individuals we are honoring this year as we raise critical funds for cancer research:  www.kicksforcancer1.org

Parent Coffee Meeting (Virtual) With CCHS Administration

Please join us on Monday from 10:15 - 11:15 for a parent coffee meeting. I am sorry to say that holding the meeting virtually requires you provide your own coffee, but I am hopeful the virtual meeting provides greater accessibility. The meeting is informal, conversational, and allows us to answer any questions you might have.

Michael Mastrullo is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Join Zoom Meeting https://concordps.zoom.us/j/94149803624?pwd=bmZpWERjNjV6MFdMbjhuMFgwalArUT09 Meeting ID: 941 4980 3624 Passcode: 009199 One tap mobile +13126266799,,94149803624# US (Chicago) +19292056099,,94149803624# US (New York) Dial by your location +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) Meeting ID: 941 4980 3624 Find your local number: https://concordps.zoom.us/u/auUThGEpa

Access your Transcript from Aspen Portal

Thanks to the great work of the IT and Guidance departments, all students are now able to access their unofficial transcript report from their Aspen accounts.  Please use this access to obtain this report.

You will log into your Aspen portal, click on My Info top tab, the transcript side tab, and then you will find the Unofficial Transcript under the reports menu.

Detailed instructions can be found here.