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Dear Xavier Families,
February marks the celebration of Black History Month, a time to honor the achievements, contributions, and resilience of Black Americans throughout history. At Xavier, we recognize the importance of this month through the work of two impactful student organizations, My Brother's Keeper and Project GRACE. These clubs provide opportunities for meaningful discussions, service projects, and education that foster a deeper understanding of history and culture within our community.
This week, we proudly celebrated Catholic Schools Week. Our students participated in various activities that highlighted our shared faith and commitment to service. Notably, we had students in our religion classes create special Valentines Day cards for veterans. Additionally, we held a "Red, White & Blue" Dress Down Day to honor our nation. These events underscored the unique spirit of our community and the enduring value of Catholic education.
We also celebrated National School Counselors Week, a special time set aside to recognize and celebrate the incredible impact school counselors have on students and communities across the country. Our counselors - Mrs. Pattavina, Mr. Sterling, and Ms. Randazzo are truly extraordinary. Each day, they go above and beyond to support our students academically, emotionally, and personally. They are trusted listeners, steady mentors, and constant sources of encouragement. Whether they are helping a student plan for the future, navigate a challenge, manage stress, or simply just having a conversation to see how things are going, our counselors are always there with compassion, patience, and genuine care. I would also like to recognize the incredible Mrs. Brown, our administrative assistant in our Counseling Department. Mrs. Brown is the heart of the office, always keeping everything running smoothly with kindness, organization, and a welcoming smile. Her dedication and care make a difference every single day, and again I know our counselors and students are better because of her support.
On Tuesday, we were blessed to have Father Bill Wallace on campus to celebrate the Feast of Saint Blaise, the patron saint of those suffering from diseases of the throat. In a tradition that dates back centuries, unlit candles were held to the throat and a blessing was offered. It was a powerful reminder of the faith that brings us together.
On Wednesday evening, we gathered as a community for the Junior Ring Mass, a meaningful tradition at Xavier. For our juniors, receiving their class rings is a powerful reminder of the brotherhood that binds them. It connects them not just to their classmates but also to the generations of Xavier men who have come before them. It was an evening filled with faith, reflection, and celebration, marking a milestone on their journey toward senior year.
On Thursday, the Class of 2030 took another step on their Xavier journey as we hosted another Parent Night for incoming families. The evening helped guide families through the next steps of the enrollment process while offering a closer look at the opportunities that await their sons. We are grateful for the trust these families place in Xavier and are excited to welcome each of them into our growing community.
Finally, a well-deserved long weekend is coming up. There will be no school on Monday, February 9th, as a reward for our students' incredible fundraising efforts in the Mercy and Xavier Walk A Thon. This past fall, our Falcons raised a record-breaking total of more than $198,000, a testament to the strength and generosity of our community.
I wanted to share this Sunday's Gospel from Matthew 5: 13-16.
"You are the salt of the Earth. But if salt loses its taste with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but not be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain can not be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a light stand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father."
In this Sunday's Gospel from Matthew, Jesus tells His followers, "You are the salt of the Earth... You are the light of the world." Salt preserves and gives flavor. Light reveals, guides, and makes it possible to see clearly. Christ is reminding us that faith is not meant to be hidden or private. It is meant to shape the world around us.
At Xavier, this passage speaks directly to our mission. Our young men are called not simply to succeed in the classroom, but to become men whose character, integrity, and compassion leave a mark on the communities they enter. Like salt, they are meant to bring goodness and strength to the environments around them. Like light, they are meant to stand as visible examples of faith in action through service, leadership, and daily choices.
Jesus' words challenge us to ask if we are using our gifts in a way that brightens the lives of others. In classrooms, on teams, in friendships, and in family life, every Falcon has the opportunity to shine in small but meaningful ways. When our students live with purpose, generosity, and respect, they reflect something greater than themselves. They help others see the presence of God at work.
This Gospel reminds us that Xavier is not just a place of learning, but a community entrusted with carrying light into the world. When our students let that light shine, it not only shapes their own futures. It brings glory to God through the good they do each day.
God Bless!
Mr. Cerreta '01
President, Xavier High School
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CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS
- Monday, Feb. 9: NO SCHOOL / OFFICES CLOSED (Walk-A-Thon Reward)
- Thursday, Feb. 12: School Counseling Mandatory Sophomore Parent / Student Night (6:30 PM)
- Friday, Feb. 13: Deposits Due for the Class of 2030
- Saturday, Feb. 14: Guatemala Trip Begins!
- Monday, Feb. 16: President's Day (NO SCHOOL / OFFICES CLOSED)
- Monday, Feb. 16: Start of Winter Break
- Sunday, Feb. 22: First Sunday of Lent
- Monday, Feb. 23: CLASSES RESUME
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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.
-The Super Bowl Shuffle scheduled for Saturday, February 7 at 7:00 pm has been cancelled. All students who purchased tickets have received a cash refund.
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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.
- On Monday, February 9th we will open Spring Sports Registration. 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 beginning on Monday.
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FROM THE HOME & SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
- The Xavier Home and School Association is excited to announce this year's 34th Annual Black and White Auction (on Saturday March 21, 2026) is presented in partnership with the Atlas Outdoor Living Company and the beautiful Woodwinds in Branford, CT.
We are also thrilled to share the start of the Xavier HSA's Impact Award program at this annual event. The XHSA's Impact Award honors an individual whose selfless generosity, leadership, and dedication have made a lasting and indelible impact on our sons, helping shape their character, direction, and future. We are honored to announce that the inaugural recipient of the Xavier Impact Award is Mr. Rich Feitel, The Director of Alumni and Development. Details of the Honoree Program are coming soon!
The preparations for this exciting night on Randolph Road are underway. Stay tuned for all the information you need to know on how to be a part of this unforgettable night benefiting our boys and all of the Xavier community.
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- 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.
- Parents of Sophomores - Your son must bring his laptop and a writing utensil to the mandatory Parent/Student meeting on Feb. 12th.
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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 MENU NEXT WEEK!
MONDAY
NO SCHOOL
TUESDAY
Chicken Rice Bowls
Penne Vodka
WEDNESDAY
Cubano Sandwich
Alfredo
THURSDAY
Beef Cutlet Sandwich
Cajun Chicken Bacon Alfredo Pasta
FRIDAY
Copycat Chic-Fil-A Sandwich
Mac & Cheese
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