"Semana de la Hispanidad"
¡Que Viva Mexico! This year’s “Semana de la Hispanidad” celebration, Sept. 15-19, was a great success. Students’ performances commemorating Mexico’s Independence Day varied from power points, to poems, songs and dances from grades PK3- 12th. Parent participation was a wonderful way to support children’s and teacher’s efforts to celebrate the Oratory’s unique cultural, and dual language education.
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The Benches
Thank you to the families who dedicated benches to "St. Philip's Circle". They are lovely and will serve all as a place to rest, meditate and pray. St. Teresa's "Way of the Cross" has also been completed. Future fundraising will help with landscaping. Donated bricks are in the process of being engraved and will be available for dedication annually. The Development Office hopes to continue the tradition of creating Sacred Spaces on the grounds of our blessed campus.
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Progress on the Interior Castle
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New Sacred Space: St. Teresa of Avila's "Inner Castle"
View in PDF.
St. Philip's Circle
The day has arrived! St. Philip's Circle is underway. Thank you to all the staff, parents, students, and friends of the Oratory for their donations in creating this lovely meditation sacred space in honor of our schools' patron, St. Philip Neri.
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St. Philip's Circle Naming Opportunities
A gift to the Oratory Schools expresses your belief in the importance of preparing tomorrow’s leaders in a Christian environment filled with the traditions of our faith and cultural heritage. Prior Annual Giving funds have gone to build the grotto to “Our Lady of Guadalupe”. This year, now that construction is complete, we are able to start the project commenced two years ago- “St. Philip’s Circle”. This will be an outdoor garden of meditation and tranquility where Oratorian families, students, staff, visitors, etc... can take a moment to pray, reflect or study while honoring our founder, St. Philip Neri, the patron saint of joy. In return for your generous donation, you will receive a brick commemorating a loved one or special event for all to see.
Categories:
- 6x12 brick- $500
- 12x24 brick- $750
- 24x24 brick- $1,000+
The First Days at School '08
New Parent and Student Orientation
Oratory Academy Winners
Holy Cross Family Ministries
2008 National Contest
Try Prayer! It Works!
Congratulations!
2nd Place: John W. Meehan, Kindergarten
Art: “Yo sigo a los pasos de San Pedro, porque quiero ser como él.”
Congratulations!
1st Place: Ana Guadalupe Chavez Balderas,Third Grade
Art: Saint Ann
Mother's Day Mass
Mother's Day Mass was celebrated on Friday, May 8, 2008 at St. Jude Thaddeus Church in Pharr, TX., by Director Fr. Mario Aviles, C.O. Oratorian families were invited to participate in this religious celebration with their children. In the photos, one can see the joy in the faces of the children with their parent(s) or grandparent(s) as they celebrate the long time tradition of receiving a red or white carnation at the end of the liturgy as a token of thanks for all her love and care.
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It's a Boy!
School Safety
In light of the recent tragic school and university shootings throughout the United States, the Pharr Oratory of St. Philp Neri, decided to dedicate additional time to further train all faculty and staff on crises management. Together, they viewed a school safety video entitled, “School Safety, When Seconds Count”. The video provided crises management tips should the school find itself under attack by a shooter. The video discusses how to place a crises strategy in place and how that strategy work in real time. It gives specific directives for the teachers and the administrative team. After the viewing the very sobering film, there was further discussion lead by Director, Fr. Mario Aviles, C.O., and Vice-Principal Fr. José E. Losoya, C.O.
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Noche de Alegría Committee 2008
Governance Board President, Oralia Cantú, Parents and Oratory Development and President’s Office staffs are working hard making preparations for the Oratory Schools’ annual gala at the Corporate Office. This year, “Noche de Alegría” will be held April 5th, 2008 at Corinthians Banquet and Events Center, Mission. Committee preparations include:
- Design and content of brochures, invitations, tickets, and flyers
- Selection of music and the evening’s cuisine
- Determine the theme and decorate accordingly: 25th Anniversary, Commencing a New Era
- Seek event sponsorships and select major sponsor gifts
- Send thank-you notes to event sponsors and donors
- Assist with brochure and invitation mail-out preparations
- Seek donations for the Silent and Live auctions
- Work together with PK3-2nd grade teachers to create unique class projects for the auction
Also contributing are the parents and faculty of the PK3-2nd grade classrooms who lovingly participate in creating this year’s memorable class projects which include quilts, autographed mirrors, a see-saw, a playhouse, lap pillows, and the “Last Supper”, that will be auctioned during the gala.
Parents wishing to join this hard working group so can do so by calling 781-3056 and ask for J. Espinoza for meeting dates and times. We need you, the children need you, Catholic education needs you, to make the next twenty-five years the best yet!
Committee Members
Oralia Cantú, G. Yvonne Pérez, Ellen Allen, Norma Uvalle, Angelica Tobin, Blanca Ferrel, Jodie Vaughan, Marisa Ozuna, Florin Najera, Norma Mendiola, Julia Gonzalez, Mary Garza, Melissa Gonzalez, Carina Cantú, Maricela Pérez, Jennifer Espinoza, Lilibet Cantú, Eddie Cantú and Stacy Solis.
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The Pharr Oratory of St. Philip Neri School System
Celebrates Catholic Education Week
January 28-February 3, 2008
The 2008 theme is "Catholic Schools Light the Way." The theme focuses on the leadership that Catholic Schools provide to our nation, producing graduates who light the way to a brighter future for all humankind. The theme also hightlights the spiritual foundation of Catholic schools, for we are on "The Way," a biblical term used to describe those who follow Jesus as disciples. The slogan, "Catholic Schools Light the Way," reminds us that we are called to "light the way" to the kingdom for others even as we walk "the way" of discipleship and grow in faith ourselves.
National Catholic Educational Association. February 6, 2008. NCEA - Catholic Education Week
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Oratorian Spirit Award Honoree 2008
L to R: G. Yvonne Pérez, Oratory System President,
Most Rev. Raymundo J. Peña, Fifth Bishop of Brownsville
and Larry Hernández, honoree
On January 25, 2008, at the Catholic Schools Spirit Awards Annual Banquet, Mr. Larry Hernández received a congratulatory handshake and diocesan Spirit Award from Bishop Raymundo J. Peña, in recognition for his commitment and long-time service as a Governance Board Member for the Oratory of St. Philip Neri School System.
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Praising the Lord with Song and Dance
Grades PK-2nd can been seen under the special care of their teachers, preparing for their Christmas Program,” Sing with Us the Christmas Story.” During rehearsal the children practiced their numbers and their musical. During my twenty-five years as a member of this Catholic institution, have I seen such a lovely program as was presented on December 20, 2007.
Unlike years past where I am on stage, behind the scenes, or sitting back stage exhausted, I was able to go to the front entrance and wish our parents, grandparents, and guests a Merry Christmas. Many approached me and gave thanks for such an exceptional program that drew many to tears of joy. Others felt their spirits had been lifted after seeing such a wonderful performance and knowing the sacrifice of the staff to prepare such an event.
One friend sitting next to me said it all:
“Tonight, God is very happy and smiling up in heaven.”
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Oratory Superstar Reading Program
In addition to their daily homework, students in each level from PK3 – 3rd grade have been given a weekly reading goal to be completed. A team of parents in each grade level has volunteered to keep tabs of the students’ minutes each week. Students work for monthly prizes and special incentives.
The following students have successfully completed their first semester goals in the Oratory Superstars Reading Program and have received a free ticket to a Viper basketball game to be announced at a later date.
Congratulations to all of the strudents who particpated.
List by Grade
List by Accomplishment
Mustang Car Raffle
Congratulations to the winner, Oratorian parent, Milagros Rull de Almazo!
Couture with Allure Fashion Show
On Nov. 17th 2007, the Oratory Schools hosted their first ever fashion show, “Couture with Allure 2007” at the beautiful new Social Club in Edinburg, Texas. The event was a success with the help of parent volunteers Mrs. Blanca Ferrel, Mrs. Nelda Del Barrio and Mrs. Marcela Arredondo with Special Events Facilitator, Mrs. Norma Uvalle, and the Development Office assisting.
The fashion show’s prime objective was to reunite alumni from the past 25 years, helping to establish an alumni association as well as raise funds for campus needs. The day prior to the event, Oratory alumni, along with current juniors and seniors, were invited to a social gathering as a kind of “homecoming” preceding the show.
Our lovely junior and senior girls, including alumni, modeled the latest in fashions from Sylvia’s and Unique’s of McAllen, while jewelry was provided by LUMA Collections (Senior, Gabi García) and Regency Jewelers who all served as sponsors of the dinner and show. Senior boys Julian Mancías and Rouzbeh Kotaki escorted the beautiful models.
Mrs. Karla Uvalle-Castro, (6th grade Class of 1993*), choreographed the charming, festive program with the help of some members of the junior and senior classes serving as technical support. It is the goal of the Development Office to make this event an annual occasion where alumni can reunite, network and continue their vocation in community service raising much needed funds for their ever growing “alma mater”.
Contact the Development Office to be part of the Oratory Alumni Association today!
Models
Jessica Allen Class of 2004
Paola Barrientos Class of 2008
Carina Cantú- 6th Class of 1991*
Gabriela García Class of 2008
Meredith Garza Class of 2009
Michelle Garza Class of 2008
Vanessa Guajardo Class of 2006
Daniella Jimenez Class of 2009
Regina Lastra Class of 2009
Kathleen Mackie Class of 2009
Celina Marquez Class of 2008
Laura Pérez- 6th Class of 1992*
Nicole Poiriez Class of 2009
Lorena Ramones Class of 2009
Frida Terán Class of 2009
Rosa Toledo Class of 2009
* Up until 1995 the Oratory Schools did not go past the 6th grade.
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Corporate Office Guests Celebrate 25th Anniversary on Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe
The Corporate Office organized a 25th Anniversary brunch for representatives from: the Oratory School System Governance Board and Administration (past and present), the Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District, and members of Pharr’s Historical and Main Street Commissions. Other guests included parents, alumni, and corporate office staff.
Guests were invited to sing “Las Mañanitas” at our Lady’s grotto at 8:30 AM on campus with students in grades 3rd to 6th. Later, they joined the President at the celebration of the Mass with the children at the 9:00 AM. Brunch followed at the Corporate Office where guests shared past and present accomplishments of the Oratory Schools in its twenty-five year history.
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Professional Development at the Oratory Schools
Every year, the Oratory School System sets time aside for the professional development of its faculty and staff. The state requires a specific number of days each accredited school must devote to in-service training. Pictured below are teachers and administration participating in several days of professional development held Nov. 19-20, 2007 on campus and at St. Joseph’s Academy in Brownsville. Topics included: Power School (Technology), Catholic Identity, an Essential Mark of a Catholic School (TCCED standard), & The 21st Century Skills.
What is Professional Development? The mission of professional development is to prepare and support educators to help all students achieve to high standards of learning and development. Professional development:
- focuses on teachers as central to student learning, yet includes all other members of the school community;
- focuses on individual, collegial, and organizational improvement;
- respects and nurtures the intellectual and leadership capacity of teachers, principals, and others in the school community;
- reflects best available research and practice in teaching, learning, and leadership;
- enables teachers to develop further expertise in subject content, teaching strategies, uses of technologies, and other essential elements in teaching to high standard;
- promotes continuous inquiry and improvement embedded in the daily life of schools;
- is planned collaboratively by those who will participate in and facilitate that development;
- requires substantial time and other resources;
- is driven by a coherent long-term plan;
- is evaluated ultimately on the basis of its impact on teacher effectiveness and student learning; and this assessment guides subsequent professional development efforts.
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40th Anniversary of the Pharr Oratory of St. Philip Neri
After the new campus Open House and the Fall Festival, the Pharr Oratory invited long-time Oratorian benefactors, staff, and fellow Oratorians to a celebratory 40th Anniversary dinner at the Social Club in Edinburg, TX.
International Oratorian guests were:
- Very Rev. Felix Selden, C.O., Delegate of the Holy See for the Confederation of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri, Vienna, Austria
- Dr. Alberto Bianco, secretary to the Very Rev. Edoardo Cerrato, C.O., Oratory of St. Philip Neri, Rome, Italy
- Very Rev. Antonio Rios, C.O. former Delegate of the Holy See for the Confederation of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri, Mexico City, Mexico.
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Fall Festival 2007
by Student Photographer Diana Maldonado
This year, as has been our long tradition, the Fall Festival featured great food, exciting children’s games, a car raffle, and a great time to be with family and friends on our new campus grounds! For the first time we offered a two hour talent show made possible by parent, Julie Chavez from Entravision. Thank you to all the students, staff, and parents who helped with the festival and sold their car raffle tickets.
Fall Festival Profit: $3,692.41
Car Raffle Profit: $7,930.00
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Fashion Show Rehearsal, "Couture with Allure 2007”
A new tradition was born this 25th Anniversary Year of the Pharr Oratory of St. Philip Neri School System! In honor of the hundreds of students it has served faithfully throughout the years, the Development Office and Event Facilitator initiated our first Annual Holiday Fashion Show, "Couture with Allure 2007", which was held at the "Social Club" in Edinburg, November 17, 2007. Showcased were the junior and senior class girls and alumni, assisted by the male students who helped as tech and ushers. In this series of photos, one can easily see the joy in the faces of the young students enjoying rehearsal under the direction of show choreographer and alumni, Karla Uvalle-Castro. Development Officer, Maricela Y. Pérez, and Norma Uvalle, Event Facilitator, look forward to organizing our 2nd Annual Holiday Fashion Show, 2008!
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Anniversary Celebrations
40th Anniversary Celebration of the Congregation of the Oratory
25th Anniversary Celebration of the Pharr Oratory of St. Philip Neri School System
On October 20, 2007, the Pharr Oratory of St. Philip Neri celebrated its 40th Anniversary, and the Oratory of St. Philip Neri School System celebrated its 25th Anniversary. The joyous event commenced with an Open House, Blessing, and Ribbon Cutting ceremony on the new construction site that serves a PK-12th grade campus for 560 students.
Special guests included: Most Rev. Raymundo J. Peña, Fifth Bishop of Brownsville, Very Rev. Felix Selden, C.O., Delegate of the Holy See, Vienna, Austria Dr. Alberto Bianco, Secretary to the Very Rev. Edoardo Cerrato, C.O., Procurator General of the Confederation of the Oratory Rome, Italy, and the Very Rev. Antonio Rios, C.O. former Delegate of the Holy See, Mexico City, Mexico.
After the program, guests were given a tour of the new Administration Building, the Cesare Baronio Library, and the new classroom additions. A reception and festival followed where parents, students, and guests enjoyed games, food, and entertainment.
Congratulations to the Pharr Oratory of St. Philip Neri Congregation and School System for its many years of dedicated service to the Christian community.
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2007 Student Council Officers Take Oath of Office
On October 16, 2007, the newly elected Student Council Officers were inducted by a swearing in ceremony. The newly elected members can been seen taking their oath of office in the cafeteria before the student body and Director, Fr. Mario Aviles, C.O.
Student Council 2007-2008 Election Results
President: Rosa Toledo
Vice-President: Gabriela García
Secretary: Melissa Alemán
Historian: Lucía Posada
Treasurer: Paloma Reinoso
Parliamentarian: Robert Kotaki