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Dear Xavier Families,
After the quiet of spring break, our halls filled again with the steady rhythm of footsteps, laughter, and purpose. Our students, faculty, and staff returned rested, recharged, and ready for the final stretch of the year. There is something about this time, when the days grow longer and the finish line begins to come into view, that sharpens focus and deepens appreciation for the moments still ahead.
On Monday, a group of our art students traveled to Metropolitan Museum of Art alongside Ms. L'Heureux, Mr. St. George, and Brother John. Inside those walls, where centuries of creativity live and breathe, our students were reminded that art is not simply something to observe, but something to feel, to question, and to carry forward. The arts at Xavier are an essential thread in the fabric of our school. Experiences like this do not just enrich a student’s education. They shape the way he understands the world.
Also on Monday, our juniors and seniors heard from Paralympian and author Steve Emt, who spoke candidly about choices, both small and life-altering. As we approach Prom Season, his message was timely and clear. The decisions you make today have a way of echoing into tomorrow. It was a powerful reminder that character is often revealed in moments when no one is watching.
On Wednesday, we paused as a community for Administrative Professionals Day, a moment to recognize the people who so often work behind the scenes, yet whose impact is felt everywhere.
Mrs. Braychak, Mrs. Keereweer, Mrs. Biro, Mrs. Brown, and Mrs. Berry are the quiet heartbeat of Xavier. Whether coordinating countless details, offering a helping hand at just the right moment, or greeting each person with warmth and kindness, they embody a spirit of generosity and care that lifts us all. Their patience, professionalism, and compassion do more than keep Xavier running smoothly. They help define who we are. They are essential not only to the daily life of the school, but to the sense of belonging that makes this place feel like home.
Thursday gave us two more reminders of what makes Xavier special.
We celebrated the one-year anniversary of welcoming Magnum into our community. In a school filled with energy and motion, Magnum has become a steady, calming presence. He sits quietly beside students who need a moment. He greets visitors as if they have always belonged. In his own simple way, he reminds us that sometimes the greatest impact comes not from words, but from presence.
Also on Thursday, author and public speaker Ron James spoke with our juniors and seniors, sharing his life story with honesty and purpose in his biannual presentation. His message was direct and lasting. Make your next choice your best choice. It is a challenge our students will carry with them, not just into the weekend, but into the years ahead.
We’re excited for the Senior Prom on Saturday at The Woodwinds, a night the Class of 2026 has been looking forward to, one that marks both a celebration and a beginning. I look forward to seeing our students there.
Lastly, I want to wish our Robotics Team the very best as they prepare to travel to Houston for the FTC World Championship, which begin on April 29. Their journey to this stage is the result of countless hours of problem-solving, collaboration, and perseverance. They represent Xavier with both excellence and humility, and we are proud to see them compete on a global stage.
I wanted to share an excerpt Sunday's Gospel from John 10: 9.
I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture.
There is something both simple and profound in these words from Jesus Christ in Gospel of John.
"I am the gate."
A gate is an entry point, but it is also protection. In Jesus' time, a shepherd would stand or lie across the opening of the sheepfold, becoming the gate itself. Nothing entered or left except through him. Safety was not an idea. It was a presence.
"Whoever enters through me will be saved."
This speaks not only to eternal life, but to guidance and direction. It is the promise that there is a clear path in a world full of noise and uncertainty.
"And all will come in and find pasture."
Pasture is where growth happens. It is where there is nourishment, rest, and the space to become stronger.
At Xavier, this message feels familiar.
The gate reflects the values that define the school and guide students each day. Being saved can be seen in the steady influence of teachers, coaches, and parents who help young men find their way. The pasture is the environment Xavier provides, a place where students are supported, challenged, and given the opportunity to grow.
This verse is a reminder that formation is intentional. At Xavier, students are not only prepared for what comes next, but are guided toward the right path and encouraged to walk it with purpose.
God Bless!
Mr. Cerreta '01
President, Xavier High School
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CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS
- Saturday, Apr. 25: Pre-HSPT Exam Class of 2031
- Saturday, Apr. 25: Senior Prom at Woodwinds (6:30 PM)
- Tuesday, Apr. 28: Bring Your Brother to Xavier Day (8:30 AM)
- Tuesday, Apr. 28: Spring Concert at Mercy (7:00 PM)
- Wednesday, Apr. 29: Early Dismissal (12:30 PM)
- Thursday, Apr. 30: Academic Awards Night (7:00 PM)
- Friday, May 1: Spring Pep Rally
- Saturday, May 2: EJ Kalber Car Show (10:00 AM)
- Saturday, May 2: Junior Prom (6:30 PM)
- Monday, May 4: AP Exams Begin
- Wednesday, May 6: Sophomore / Junior Field Day at Holiday Hill (8:15 AM)
- Thursday, May 7: Last Day of Classes for Seniors
- Friday, May 8: Senior Exams Begin
- Saturday, May 9: Freshmen / Sophomore Semi-Formal (7:00 PM)
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SUMMER CAMP 2026!
- Help spread the word! Registration for Xavier's summer camps is now open! Summer starts at Xavier. Spots are filling fast! The link for registration can be found HERE.
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FROM THE FINANCE OFFICE
- You should have received an email regarding the re-enrollment process for the 2025-26 school year. Contracts are available through the Xavier parent portal and must be submitted by April 30, 2026. If you have any questions please contact the Finance Office.
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FROM THE DEAN OF STUDENTS
- The 2026-27 one-page school calendar is available HERE. A full calendar will be made available later this spring.
- The Junior Prom will take place on campus on Saturday, May 2. Your son's will receive the ticket link next week.
- Parents of Freshmen & Sophomores: The Freshman / Sophomore Semi-Formal will take place on campus on Saturday, May 9. Your son’s will receive the ticket link next week.
Parents of Seniors: We have begun to highlight member of the Class of 2026 on our social media channels. Please encourage your son to fill out the form that Mr. Cunha emailed them.
- The spring concert is on Tuesday, April 28. For those that cannot attend or want to share the link to watch with family, you can view HERE.
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FROM THE ASSOCIATE PRESIDENTS
- Make the most of your summer with Xavier's Summer Academic Programs, designed to help you strengthen key skills, get ahead in challenging subjects, or fulfill course requirements. Whether you're looking to refine your math and writing abilities, prepare for AP coursework, or even knock out a graduation requirement, our summer offerings provide the perfect opportunity to stay on track. A Brochure with more information will be sent home soon! You can register for classes and view the Summer Academic Brochure HERE
- The Academic Awards Night is on Thursday, April 30. For those that cannot make it or want to share a link with family, you can view the event HERE.
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FROM THE SCHOOL STORE
- 2026 Yearbook: tribute/recognition ads: The link for including ads for the Class of 2026 in Xavier's Yearbook is as follows:
https://tribute-ads-b9ba6.web.app/authentication/register?schoolId=50
- Yearbook purchase for Juniors, Sophomores and Freshmen: [This is not a link for Seniors. Seniors receive a yearbook]. The 2026 Yearbook is now available for purchase. The cost is $85. The book will be mailed out late in the summer. The link is: https://jostensyearbooks.com/?REF=A01052900.
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FROM THE DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS
- The athletic department is holding their final NCAA signing day of the school year on Thursday, April 30th in the schools gymnasium starting at 2:45 pm. If you would like to be part of this event, please complete the registration form below no later than Wednesday, April 29th. CLICK HERE FOR THE FORM. Mr. DeConti will be sending out more information about the event early next week.
- Congratulations to Luke Beasley, Corbin Engleman, and Trevor Snow on being recognized as members of the All-State Teams in Rifle.
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FROM THE SCHOOL COUNSELING OFFICE
- Senior Parents - Please remind your sons to update their college outcomes in Naviance. A step-by-step guide can be found in OnCampus under School & College Counseling.
- Senior Parents - 'Tis the Scholarship Submission Season. Please remember to give our office 2 weeks notice for Transcript and Letter of Recommendation requests.
- Parents of Juniors - Parent Brag sheets were due April 10th. A copy of the form can be found in OnCampus under School & College Counseling/Letters of Recommendation.
- The Connecticut Congressional Delegation will host its annual Service Academy Night on Wednesday, May 6th from 5:00 - 8:00 PM in East Hartford, offering students the opportunity to meet with representatives from each of the federal service academies and learn about the congressional nomination process. Staff members from each congressional office will also be available to answer questions and provide guidance on applying for a nomination. This event is open to all students, regardless of grade level, who are interested in pursuing a service academy, not just juniors beginning the college application process. CLICK HERE to view a flyer for the event.
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FROM THE HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
- Cherished Moments BrunchAs part of a renewed Xavier HSA tradition our Team is honored to invite the Seniors and their mothers, grandmothers, and special women to a heartfelt and meaningful celebration. Sunday, May 3rd from 11:00 AM to 1:00PM at Xavier Lino's Café we will gather to recognize our graduating seniors and the incredible women who have supported them along the way. RSVP is required by April 29th via THIS FORM.
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FROM THE ALUMNI & DEVELOPMENT OFFICE
- Alumnus Steven Scionti '81 returns to Middletown, CT, to perform his deeply personal, critically acclaimed one-man show, Hear What’s in the Heart: A Shoemaker's Tale, on May 8th and May 9th at 7:00 PM at the Mercy High School Auditorium. Doors open at 6:00 PM.
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FROM THE ENROLLMENT OFFICE
- ASSE International is partnering with Xavier High School to welcome international high school exchange students, ages 15-18, into your family and create bonds that will last a lifetime. Hosting an international student offers a unique cultural exchange experience for both the student and your family. Families that host an exchange student will receive a $5,000 tuition discount. To learn more about hosting an international exchange student or contact Chris Sansone, Director of Enrollment.
- We're excited to host our Pre-HSPT on Saturday, April 26 for 7th grade boys! You can register you son HERE! Please share the link with those that you know as well!
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LINO'S LUNCH NEXT WEEK
MONDAY
Taco Nacho
Pasta w/ Meatballs
TUESDAY
Chicken Rice Bowls
Penne Vodka
WEDNESDAY
Breakfast Only
THURSDAY
Chicken Wings
Chef Special
FRIDAY
BBQ Beef Brisket
Mac & Cheese
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