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Dear Xavier Families,
It was a short week on campus after another snowpocalypse swept through, but there was something good about seeing our halls full again. The rhythm returned quickly. Backpacks slung over shoulders. Laughter between classes. The steady hum of learning and brotherhood picking up right where it left off. It was good to be together again.
And what a week it was to be a Falcon.
On Saturday, our Robotics program delivered one of the most impressive performances in school history at the FIRST Tech Challenge State Championship. The FullMetal Kestrels captured the FTC State Championship and will now advance to the FTC World Championship in Houston, Texas this April. They will represent Xavier and Connecticut on the national stage. Even more remarkable, all four Xavier teams competing at the event advanced to the finals.
Last weekend, our Wrestling team continued a run of dominance that has become a defining standard of the program. Xavier captured its sixth straight CIAC Class L State Championship, a testament to the discipline and culture built within the program. Individually, we had four state champions: Freshman Josh Perez, Freshman Trey Beam, Junior Zack Dixon, and Senior Braylon Gonzalez. Each earned All-State honors. Braylon Gonzalez etched his name permanently into Xavier history, becoming the first wrestler in program history to win four individual state championships. We are incredibly proud of these student-athletes and their coaches for representing Xavier with strength, humility, and class. Coach Mike Cunningham continues to build on his record-breaking legacy. Him and his staff have our student-athletes prepared and there is no doubt that we are the best coached team in the state!
Thursday's Parent-Teacher Conferences were another important reminder that a Xavier education does not happen in isolation. It takes a village. When families and faculty sit down together, sharing insight, asking questions, supporting one another, our students benefit in powerful ways. Growth happens fastest when expectations are aligned and communication is strong.
We are deeply grateful for the partnership we share with you. The success of our Falcons is built on collaboration among our students, their families, and the entire Xavier community. That shared commitment is one of our greatest strengths. Thank you for being present, engaged, and invested in your sons' journey.
On March 12, our Junior Retreat will begin, it is one of the true hallmarks of the Xavier experience and one of my favorite weekends of the year. The Junior Retreat is more than a few days away from campus. It is an integral part of our students' spiritual journey at Xavier. It is a moment for reflection, growth, and deeper understanding of who they are becoming.
It is also a powerful leadership experience and a class-bonding opportunity that strengthens the brotherhood beyond the classroom and athletic fields. The conversations that happen during retreat often stay with our students long after graduation. It is one of the offerings that truly sets Xavier apart and a reminder that we are committed not only to academic excellence, but to forming young men of faith, integrity, and purpose. We look forward to this meaningful experience for the Class of 2026.
I can't wait to share the experience with them. Building enduring personal relationships is a hallmark of the Xavier experience and I look forward to getting to know your son's better.
I wanted to share this Sunday's Gospel from Matthew 17: 1-9.
After six days, Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them; his face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, conversing with him. Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, "Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah."
While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud cast a shadow over them, then from the cloud came a voice that said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him."
When the disciples heard this, they fell prostrate and were very much afraid. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, "Rise, and do not be afraid." And when the disciples raised their eyes, they saw no one else but Jesus alone.
As they were coming down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, "Do not tell the vision to anyone until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead."
In this Sunday's Gospel from Matthew Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain. For a moment, they see Him as He truly is, radiant and transformed in glory. Moses and Elijah appear beside Him, representing the Law and the Prophets. When they come down the mountain. The glory does not remain on the summit. They must return to what lies ahead.
We all need mountain moments.
The mountain represents those times when we see more clearly. Retreats, Mass, a meaningful class discussion, a game under the lights, or a quiet conversation that shifts a young man's direction. At Xavier, we intentionally create opportunities for students to encounter truth, beauty, and purpose.
Listen to Him.
The Father's instruction is simple and direct. Listen to Him. In a world filled with noise, Xavier helps young men hear the right voice, the voice of Christ, through faith formation, mentorship, and the example set by faculty, coaches, and parents.
Rise, and do not be afraid.
Our students will face challenges academically, socially, and spiritually. Fear is a natural part of growth. Christ's words remind us that courage comes from trust. We are forming young men who can rise with confidence, grounded in faith.
We do not stay on the mountain.
The disciples come down because the moment of glory prepares them for mission. In the same way, what happens at Xavier in classrooms, on stages, on fields, and in service prepares our students for life beyond our doors.
The Transfiguration reminds us that education at Xavier is not only about knowledge gained, but vision clarified. It is about helping young men glimpse who they are called to become and giving them the courage to follow that call with faith and conviction.
God Bless!
Mr. Cerreta '01
President, Xavier High School
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CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS
- Friday, Feb. 27: Senior Service Hours Due
- Sunday, Mar. 1: Second Sunday of Lent
- Monday, Mar. 2: AP Applications Assessment Week Begins
- Tuesday, Mar. 3: Spring Freshmen Leadership Day (11:55 AM)
- Thursday, Mar. 5: Ben Tracy Presentation
- Thursday, Mar. 5: Mini Open House (6:00 PM)
- Friday, Mar. 6: AP Applications Due
- Friday, Mar. 6: Spring Musical at Mercy (7:00 PM)
- Saturday, Mar. 7: Spring Musical at Mercy
- Sunday, Mar. 8: Spring Musical at Mercy
- Sunday, Mar. 8: Third Sunday of Lent
- Thursday, Mar. 12: Junior Retreat Begins
- Friday, Mar. 13: School / Offices Closed
- Saturday, Mar. 14: Junior Retreat Ends
- Sunday, Mar. 15: Fourth Sunday of Lent
- Tuesday, Mar. 17: American Red Cross Blood Drive
- Wednesday, Mar. 18: Early Dismissal (12:30 PM)
- Wednesday, Mar. 18: SAT Testing for Juniors (8:15 AM)
- Thursday, Mar. 19: Feast of St. Joseph Mass (9:10 AM)
- Thursday, Mar. 19: Class of 2030 Class Night (5:30 PM)
- Friday, Mar. 20: School / Offices Closed
- Saturday, Mar. 21: 34th Annual Black & White Auction (6:00 PM)
- Sunday, Mar. 22: Fifth Sunday of Lent
- Monday, Mar. 23: Spirit Week Begins
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FROM THE FINANCIAL AID COMMITTEE
- Financial Aid applications for the 2026-27 academic year are still being accepted. For those seeking financial aid for the 2026-2027 academic year, we invite you to complete the FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment. The application can be accessed at https://online.factsmgt.com/signin/3CHKL. Financial aid at Xavier is awarded to families with demonstrated need, ensuring resources are thoughtfully allocated to those who require assistance. Families facing temporary financial hardships are encouraged to contact the Head of School to discuss special arrangements. ______________________________________________________
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.
- With winter weather upon us, please note Xavier High School's notification procedures and our policies for cancellation of school and for make-up days. The information can be found here.
- On Thursday, March 5, Ben Tracy will do a presentation for our students on on digital citizenship, online safety, and responsible social media use. Topics that are especially important for our students at this time. This assembly is an important opportunity for students to gain practical guidance on navigating the digital world responsibly. As online interactions and social media continue to play a significant role in students' daily lives, it is essential that they understand how to make safe, respectful, and informed choices.
- AP placement tests for Social Studies and English will be administered next week: the Social Studies test will be offered on Monday and Thursday in Room 214; The English test will be offered Tuesday and Wednesday in Room 303. Please see Mr. Royce or Ms. Lee with any questions.
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FROM THE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
- All home athletic events for the sports of Basketball, Hockey, and Wrestling require purchase of admission through our online ticketing platform GoFan. Please click here to purchase your tickets or season pass.
- Spring Sports Registrationis open! If your son plans on playing a sport this spring, he must be registered through Arbiter Registration, even if he has already played a sport this school year. As a reminder, please make sure the nurse has a copy of your son's most recent physical. Physicals are valid for 13 months from the date of the exam. You can register your son here.
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FROM THE HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
- The 34th Annual Black and White Auction is less than a month away. This year's event, presented in partnership with the Atlas Outdoor Living Company and the beautiful Woodwinds in Branford, CT will offer 6 hours of good food and beverages, exciting prizes and prize drawings and of course time for dancing!
We wanted to take the opportunity to thank all who donated, supported via sponsorships, advertisements and are looking forward to joining the fun and the celebration of the wonderful community Xavier has.
Our team has been working tirelessly on securing exciting and unique prizes for our guests to bid on. From 7 night stay at Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos in Mexico (any 7 days in 2027), overnight stay at Foxwoods with spa passes and dinner for 2, NYC experience with luxury sedan and chauffeur, tickets to any show and dinner, tickets to Celtics game on Friday April 10th, Boston Red Sox tickets to any game in 2026 season, traditional school items (graduation, prom, street signs, etc.) thru amazing packages created by our sports teams, local businesses and our parents... Full driving school courses, golf outings, ski passes... the list is endless!
Invite your friends, family members and let's have A LOT of fun together!
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- This year's JUNIOR RETREAT takes place March 12-14, 2026 at the Wisdom House Retreat & Conference Center in Litchfield. The theme is An Upperclassmen Journey: becoming a leader. There are a limited number of spots. You can register your son today in the OnCampus Parent Portal.
- As a friendly reminder, the service requirements for each respective class, as well as the due dates, are as follows:
- CLASS OF 2026: 30 hours due FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2026
- CLASS OF 2027: 35 hours due FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2026... 30 additional senior hours will be due MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2027
- CLASS OF 2028: 40 hours, due WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1st, 2026... 40 additional hours due SENIOR YEAR, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1st 2028
- CLASS OF 2029: 40 hours due sophomore year, THURSDAY, APRIL 1st, 2027... 40 additional hours due senior year, THURSDAY, MARCH 1st 2029
If your son needs service hours, opportunities remain listed and the list is frequently updated OnCampus (under NEWS and FEATURED CONTENT). To view this more easily, CLICK HERE or just scan the QR Code hung around school.
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FROM THE SCHOOL COUNSELING OFFICE
- Parents of Seniors - Scholarships are listed in Naviance. Look through to find ones relevant to your son.
- Parents of Juniors - Be sure your completed Record Release form and Parent Brag sheet are turned into the School Counseling office.
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FROM THE ALUMNI & DEVELOPMENT OFFICE
- Tickets are $100 each. Only 800 will be sold and the winner takes home 25,000 dollars.
- Ticket numbers will be sent via email. When purchasing a ticket, you must provide an email address. Ticket numbers will not be sent out in the mail.
- The drawing will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 8 at Xavier High School. You do not need to be present to win, but you must be at least 18 years old to purchase.
- Purchaser of the winning ticket is responsible for all taxes. In accordance with IRS regulations, all state and federal taxes will be withheld by Xavier High School.
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FROM THE DIRECTOR OF ENROLLMENT
- 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. To learn more about hosting an international exchange student click here or contact Chris Sansone, Director of Enrollment.
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Lino's Lunch Next Week
MONDAY
Chicken Parm over Penne
Pasta w/ Meatballs
TUESDAY
Chipotle Chicken & Rice Bowls
Penne Vodka
WEDNESDAY
Kielbasa w/ Pierogis
Penne Alfredo
THURSDAY
General Tso's Chicken over Rice
Pasta (Chef Special)
FRIDAY
Fish & Chips (Cod Nugget on a Buttered Bun)
Impossible Whopper
Mac & Cheese
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