Oratorian News

Private School Interscholastic Association One-Act Play Competition

Students in grades 6-8 participated in the PSIA's Area 4 One-Act Play competition Saturday, February 27, 2010. The cast was awarded 2nd Place, runner- up to State. The Technical Team was awarded 1st Place team by the Seguin High School Techs!

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Oratory Athenæum for University Preparation Receives Prestigious State Nomination

Diocesan Grant Awards

CONGRATULATIONS TEACHERS!!

Giovanna Zanetti receives a Diocesan $1000 grant to support Extended Day Learning at the Oratory Schools! Linda Maldonado & Giovanna Zanetti receive a Diocesan $1000 grant for enrolling in the Robotics Science Summer Institute. David Meraz also received a Diocesan grant in the amount of $1000 for purchasing classroom AV presentation equipment.

Congratulations to Mr. David Meraz, the recipient of $1,000 from the Diocese of Brownsville's Teacher Incentive Grant. His grant proposal was to purchase an LCD projector and an overhead projector for enhancing instruction in the classroom. Seen below are students from an Advanced Placement (AP) high school English class. The photos show Mr. Meraz utilizing his training for teaching writing skills to advanced learners. He is seen demonstrating the use of strategies from "Step Up to Writing”, a program that offers effective instructional techniques and step-by-step approaches to improve a student's writing across the content areas. Mr. Meraz also uses this equipment for on-campus teacher training in which he shares the knowledge and skills learned in a two-day summer workshop in 2009 sponsored by Sopris West Educational Services, to which Mr. Meraz paid the cost of attendance. The Oratory Schools are very grateful to Mr. Meraz for his professionalism and a strong commitment to his continuing education for the betterment of our students.

Oratory Athenæum Fashion Show, “Arte En Vogue”

The Oratory Athenæum Fashion Show, “Arte En Vogue”, was held December 4, 2009, at El Cine Rey in McAllen, Texas, in affiliation with the city's Art Walk. This fundraiser was for the school’s Tuition Assistance Program. Twelfth grade girls served as models while the boys served as ushers for the event. Three young Oratorian girls also modeled representing the school’s Royal Court.

The fashion show featured famous and iconic works of art. Each model was given a work of art then, with the help of stylist, Samantha Moroles, (Oratory alumni), compiled an ensemble inspired by the art showcasing today's fashion. The event planning committee, the Oratory Alumni, helped to plan and execute the event. The alumni assisted as photographer, choreographer, stylist and publicity as well as models featuring accessories and clothing by Mexican designers, Pineda and Covalin, provided by Oratory mom, Pilar Zetuna. A special thank you to Karla Castro, Janet Alvarado, Samantha Moroles and Vanessa Guajardo: the alumni committee.

Event chair and Development Officer, Maricela Pérez, assisted KRGV’s, Camaron Abundes, who served as the Mistress of Ceremony. Sponsors, staff, students, and guests all enjoyed the fashion show and dinner catered by España.

This will be an annual event that incorporates the celebration of culture, art, alumni, 12th grade involvement, and the virtue of giving of themselves to benefit their community; in this case, scholarships for high school students seeking a Catholic education.

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2010 Spirit Award - Carlos and Cynthia Garza

Natives of McAllen, Texas, Carlos and Cynthia Garza are both graduates from the University of Texas Pan American. They have been married for 22 years and are the proud parents of three children: Meredith a 2009 Oratory Athenaeum graduate, Meghan a 10th grade student at the Oratory Athenaeum and Carlos a former Oratory Academy student. Their commitment to the Pharr Oratory Schools is reflected in the many years their children have attended the school. They are pioneers and enrolled their children in the only Dual Language and Bicultural program in existence at the time and are witnesses of the growth of our schools through the years. Together with their support as catholic school parents, Mr. and Mrs. Garza have been great supporters of our annual gala fundraiser, Noche de Alegría, and as well as many other school events as volunteers, chaperons, etc. Carlos and Cynthia have been working for 20 years at La Lomita, Inc., their family business, where there they serve as CEO and CFO respectively. Committed long time catholic school parents, community leaders, and successful entrepreneurs the Oratory Schools make Mr. and Mrs. Garza the honoree for the 2010 Spirit Award.

Oratory Schools Athletics

Winners of the Champion Soccer League

2009 Middle School Soccer team holds their 1st Place Trophy and Medal

The Oratory Schools offer multiple opportunities for students to become involved in different sports all year long. The sports leagues to which the Oratory belongs are highly competitive both locally and statewide.

Our high school Flag Football and Basketball programs compete in Valley Christian Athletic Association (VCAA), a local league of Christian schools. Our high school soccer program competes in the Champion Soccer League, another local Christian League. All high school athletic programs participate in local and statewide tournaments. The Oratory School is also in the process of joining TAPPS (Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools.) This association will place the Oratory Athenæum into a statewide district, giving high school students an opportunity to compete in state tournaments. There is never a dull moment for the student athletes at The Oratory Schools.

A unique thing about the athletic program at the Oratory Schools is that sports are offered to all students beginning in first grade. That’s right – elementary aged students represent the Oratory Schools in football, basketball, and soccer leagues throughout the year. This gives students the opportunity to grow with their peers side by side into athletes that are exemplary leaders to the school.

A. J. Vielma participates in the 2009 International Association for K-12 Online Learning Virtual Symposium

Antonio José Vielma, a 10th grade student at the Oratory Athenaeum was one of five students chosen from across the state to participate in the 2009 International Association for K-12 Online Learning Virtual Symposium. iNACOL’s annual Virtual School Symposium was held Nov. 15-17 in Austin, Texas. More than 1,200 attendees representing K-12 administrators, policy leaders and practitioners, participate in iNACOL’s premier professional development conference each year.

Antonio was nominated by the Oratory Athenaeum, a Catholic dual-language high school sponsored by the Congregation of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri in Pharr, Texas and was selected to participate on the student panel by iNACOL to represent private education in Texas. Antonio has two years experience of online learning having taken World Geography and World History. The Oratory Athenaeum, requires all students to take courses online to better prepare for success with the needed 21st Century Skills. Students at the Oratory Athenaeum, take World Geography, World History, US History/AP US History, US Government/AP US Government, and Economics/AP Macroeconomics, online via the Texas Virtual School and the Region 4 Educational Service Center in Houston, Texas. In addition, select students are also able to take AP Psychology online. All student panelists had some experience with online instruction.

Students on the panel were given the opportunity to express their ideas and experiences regarding online education. There was consensus from the student participants that online learning is not easier than face-to-face instruction. The student panelists agreed that online learning requires good organizational and study skills. Antonio made a point about the need for students taking online classes to take charge of their own learning by keeping themselves organized and motivated to complete the required coursework. The student panelists, after answering questions posed by iNACOL president, Susan Patrick, were able to answer a few questions posed by some of the more than 1,200 attendees at this year’s conference.

Antonio received recognition from iNACOL for his participation in this year’s Virtual School Symposium and was congratulated afterwards by many of the participants in the grand hall.

HESTEC

HESTEC Competition at the University of Texas Pan American, Edinburg Texas

Oct. 1, 2009

Students had a lot of fun and learned to face design problems and programming problems. They also dealt with the problem of the practice mat, but in the end, the robot was well designed and the program was the right one.

The competition was very exciting, due to the fact that if one lost a match, one was eliminated from the competition. A total of 44 high schools from all over the Valley and other districts competed. The first round was against a very large robot, that made the team worried about the size of ours, but Androx won. (Androx is the name of our robot).

The second round came and the match was so exciting due to the fact that we were against another Catholic high school, St. Agustine from Laredo. Both robots were so good, that no team was loosing. After six rounds, we won.

On the third round, we started well, but right before, the team decided to change the batteries for a fresh pack. The turns were slightly different, and unfortunately, that made a change, and we lost the match. As consolation, we got disqualified against the first place winner!!

All these experiences helped the students mature, learn to overcome loosing a competition, and to find answers for any problems encountered.

Below is the link where one can read everything about the match, the teams, the robots, and even watch videos of the entire competition.

Robotics HESTEC Coach: Giovanna Zannetti

HESTEC

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Imagine Learning

“Imagine Learning” teaches children English and develops literacy faster and better than any other method. Students receive one-on-one instruction specifically designed to meet their individual needs, so they progress quickly. “Imagine Learning English” is founded on scientifically based research and state standards.”
Imagine Learning English, Inc.

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“Sign up today for the after-school program held in the computer lab and supervised by Ms. Duran. Read memo for details and fees!”
Coordinator, Ellen Allen

English Memo Spanish Memo

Support Oratory Athletics!

Message from Coach J. Beltran & J. Moroles:
Support Oratory Athletics! Come and cheer for our athletic high school Flag Football games. Go Ocelots!!!

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Semana de la Hispanidad

Oratory teachers, parents, and students enjoy "Semana de la Hispanidad" with song, dance, PP presentations, and recitations all in celebration of the hispanic culture and heritage.

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Fashion Show 2009!

"ARTE EN VOGUE"
(A FUSION OF ART AND FASHION)

Seniors 2009 were informed about this year's Fashion Show to be held at "Cine El Rey" on 17th street in McAllen, on Friday, December 4, 2009. Senior girls will be the fashion models for a unique show that fuses today's young fashion with famous works of art. The event called, "Arte En Vogue", will raise much-needed funds for our tuition assistance/scholarship program. Event members include: Alumni: Vanessa Guajardo, Karla Castro, Janet Alvarado, Samantha Moroles, Laura Pérez, Carina Cantú, and the schools' Development Officer, Maricela Pérez.This year, the Corporate Office is pleased to announce the event will coincide with McAllen's Art Walk. Stay tuned for more information on sponsorships, tickets, and participation!

16 de septiembre

Members of the Corporate Office dress in a Mexican folkloric style as they join in on the overall campus spirit of celebrating Mexico's Day of Independence, "el 16 de septiembre"! On this historic day, in 1810, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a priest from Dolores, Guanajuato, rang the church bells to gather the people. He called for them to rise up against the Spanish Crown. This act initiated Mexico's War of Independence.

The 2009 Science Olympiad Summer Institute

Comments:

"This was my first institute and I loved it! The presenters were absolutely fabulous, and I enjoyed the hands-on activities and the discussions with other coaches."

"I loved the hands-on chemistry opportunities provided in the sessions. Some of the techniques were brand-new to me, so the personal practice and guidance were invaluable! I've gained many new resources and ideas for my own classroom as well as for my Science Olympiad students. I plan to return next year!"

"The human resources were the most helpful. I liked the enthusiastic and friendly participants; they were inspiring. I saw competitiveness, but it was in the spirit of bringing out the best in everyone. Thank you!"

Pictured above are group members of the 2009 Science Olympiad Summer Institute (SOSI) held this past summer in Phoenix, Arizona. In attendance were chemistry teacher Ms. Giovanna Zanetti, (red t-shirt center) and 7th-8th-grade science teacher, Ms. Linda Maldonado (black jacket center). The institute was very successful and both Ms. Zanetti and Ms. Maldonado look forward to enriching the Oratory Schools’ science program and to incorporate grade level campus competitions in pursuit of regional, state, and national awards.

New Parent Orientation

New families listened with great enthusiasm as administrators presented on the philosophy and mission of the Oratory Schools. In addition, staff spoke on upcoming student events such as Hispanic Week and fund-raisers such as the Fall Festival. In addition, the Director gave an overview of procedures, schedules, etc. within “The Pharr Oratory of St. Philip Neri School System”. We welcome all our new families and the children they have entrusted to our care. We greatly anticipate working together to build up the Kingdom of God.

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Private School Interscholastic Association - Grades 1-8

Congratulations to our students placing in District and State competitions!

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Try Prayer! It Works! Contest Winners

One Spirit. Many Gifts.


Ana Sofia Rodríguez, 1st Place, 7th Grade


Ma. Fernanda López Gtz., 3rd Place, 7th Grade


Santiago Mendiola, 1st Place, 2nd Grade


Daniella Edwards, 1st Place, 1st, Grade


Ivanna Angelina Zeron 3rd Place, Kinder

Walk-a-Thon 2009

A Diocesan-wide Catholic Schools fund raiser for tuition assistance.

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Rio Grande Valley Regional Science Olympiad

These are the results of the second annual Rio Grande Valley Regional Science Olympiad held in March, 2008. More than 180 middle and high school competition hosted by South Texas College's Pecan Campus in McAllen. Students competed in a day of science including robotics, using chemical compounds, food science, and investigation skill. The Athenæum placed in 9th and 10th place out of twelve teams in Division C. The Academy students placed 6th and 8th in Division B. Congratulations to those students, parents and coaches who encouraged our Oratory students to participate in this wonderful event for the first time!

STC Team Science Competition

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Fund A Need

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Dear Parents,
The Oratory Schools has begun a new campaign called Fund a Need. The chart below outlines plans and costs for our Athletic Fields designed by Coach J. Beltran.

Anyone wishing to make a contribution should contact School System President, G. Yvonne Pérez, Fr. José Losoya, C.O. or Coach Beltran.

Mardi Gras Shoebox Parade

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Feast Day

A Feast Day procession, December 12, 2008, in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe at the Oratory Schools, Pharr, Texas, is celebrated by the entire faculty and student body.

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Fall Festival

This year's Fall Festival, under the direction of Mrs. Norma Uvalle, Spanish Coordinator, was a wonderful success! Parents, faculty, and children enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon with games, rides, food, snacks, and learning experiences . This fundraising event was our most successful in recent history raising a little over $13,000 after expenses. A special thank you is extended to the faculty and staff who motivated students and parents to make this the best festival yet!

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Fall Festival Planning Committee: Parents & Staff

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"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

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New Parent and Student Orientation

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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

National Contest Results

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:

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:

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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:

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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

See all photos.

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

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