ROCKLAND HIGH SCHOOL
RHS COMMUNITY WEEKLY UPDATE #1
AUGUST 18, 2016
Students Attend Internet Safety Presentation.
Sophie McLellan, Veritas Co-Editor-in-Chief
Katie L. Greer and School Resource Officer Ethan Schnabel
Katie L. Greer presents to the high school students.
School Resource Officer Schnabel introduces Katie L. Greer
Facebook and Twitter and Snapchat, oh my!
Many social media pages are being used by the youth of our country to connect with others and represent themselves online. This is not always a good thing. From stalkers tracking your photo to colleges finding embarrassing tweets, there is a lot that could go wrong on these sites.
As the internet grows and plays a bigger part in everyone’s lives, it is essential to learn how to protect ourselves from the dangers it can bring. Katie L. Greer, an expert in internet and social media safety, came to the high school last Wednesday to lecture the students on how to keep themselves safe online.
Meeting with the middle school and high school students in the morning and then concerned parents at night, Greer gave advice to all who would listen.
After the presentation, senior student Luana Lima said “It was informative and I think it scared at least one kid into being more safe online.”
The event was sponsored by the Rockland Education Foundation and Rockland School Resource Officer Ethan Schnabel who worked to make the event a reality.
SGC Has First Meeting
The leaders of SGC posed for a picture after being elected last spring.
Jasmin Morse, Veritas Web Editor
As the school year kicks off, one of RHS’s most influential clubs, Student Government Council, got off to a great start at its first meeting which was held last Wednesday. With the new year comes new leaders, and this year’s SGC has new advisors: Ms. Amanda Lanigan and Ms. Joanne White, as well as the new ringleader of it all, President Noelle Atkins.
Atkins says she was pleased with the meeting. “[the first meeting] went better than expected. Honestly, I didn’t think a lot of people would show.” She said there was a pleasantly unexpected large turnout for the new faces of the freshman class. Ms. White also mentioned that she and Ms. Lanigan were impressed with the organizational skill of the Big Five- which aside from Noelle consists of Shannon Lindahl as VP, Taylor Gallagher as secretary, Julia DiCienzo working as treasurer, and Adam Royle, as publicity coordinator.
Some of the major events that took place at this meeting were class and committee meetings. Sophomore meeting attendee, Justin Sherlock said, “At the meeting we got a lot accomplished. The sophomore class finalized our class tee shirt design and solidified our class fundraiser.”
Later he explained what occurred at his Spirit Committee meeting which is led by senior Sydney Wells. “Being in Spirit Committee, we worked on ideas for Spirit Week and Pep Rally.” Both of these major school events are soon approaching.
The advisors and the club’s president left me with some final words of advice for the students looking to get involved, especially to the freshmen. Ms. Lanigan said if you are contemplating attending or getting more involved: “Take the risk- you won’t know till you try.” Ms. White also stated, “[SGC has an] eclectic group of the student body,” so there’s a spot for everyone. Although Atkins warned that her advice may sound “cheesy”, she said for the members to just be themselves and get involved as much as possible.
Student Government Council has officially started the 2016-2017 year with a fantastic first meeting turnout and some great plans for the club and school to look forward to. So, check out social media or listen to morning announcements for an upcoming SGC meeting and stop by; there’s a spot for everyone.
Bulldogs Defeat Cohasset 28-7 On Gridiron
Joe Taft – Veritas Sports Editor
Photos courtesy of Rockland High Sports and Jeanine ReardonThe Rockland Bulldogs took on the Cohasset Skippers in the first game of the new football season.
They fell behind early, but the Dogs did not back down. They scored 28 unanswered points after going down in the first quarter to start the season off on the right foot with a win.
Senior running back John Goode found the end zone to tie the game at 7 with 2:51 to go in the first quarter. Goode ran for the one score and 50 yards.
Senior quarterback Matthew Dunn was finding success through the air on Friday night. He found junior tight-end Zach Sharland open in the end-zone for a nine yard touchdown.
Rockland led 21-7 after Dunn ran a 1-yarder right past the goal line for a score. Dunn finished the night 11-16 passing for 175 yards and 2 touchdowns, (one passing, one running).
Senior running back Noah Mazzilli ran for 47 yards. Junior Jon Barr ran for 72 yards, including a 52 yard touchdown run that ultimately pushed the score out of the reach of Cohasset.
Rockland takes on Abington this Friday at Veteran’s Memorial Stadium, as they look to start a winning streak. They will try to avenge the loss they suffered at home against the Green Wave last year.
FINAL: Rockland 28-Cohasset 7
Weekly Update #4
Click on the following to read RHS Principal Harrison’s fourth community update.
mr-harrisons-community-newsletter-4
Included is an update on Rockland’s sports teams’ records so far this year:
Sports Recap
We had a great first week of sports. It was fun to see the kids engaged athletics after school hours. Despite some challenging weather at the start of the week, by the end of the week we were enjoying the start of fall sports outside. If only we had the Fall weather🙂.
Football
W 28-7 v. Cohasset (1-0)
Boys Cross Country
L 50 v. 15 v. Norwell (0-1)
Girls Cross Country
L 50 v. 23 v. Norwell (0-1)
Freshmen Football
L 14-8 v. Cohasset (0-1)
Girls Varsity Soccer
W 6-1 v. Abington (1-0)
W 5-2 v. Hanover (2-0)
Girls JV Soccer
W 4-1 v. Abington (1-0)
Boys Varsity Soccer
W 6-1 v. Abington (1-0)
Boys JV Soccer
W 2-1 v. Abington (1-0)
Varsity Volleyball
L 3-0 v. Middleboro (0-1)
JV Volleyball
L 3-0 v. Middleboro (0-1)
Freshmen Volleyball
W 2-1 v. Middleboro (1-0)
Golf
L 161.5 v. 93.5 Mashpee (0-1)
Weekly Update #3 from Principal Harrison
Principal Harrison’s Update is once again packed with information including a link to the all important September lunch menu, a link to bus route information, scholarship information for seniors, SAT and ACT dates, and a list of events coming up this week.
Weekly Update #2 from Mr. Harrison
John Harrison, new principal at Rockland High School, has published his second weekly update on his blog. Go to http://rocklandhs.blogspot.com/2016/08/rhs-community-weekly-update-2 to see the latest information for the beginning of school and for the week ahead!
Also, information about new staff members is included for students who might have one of the new teachers!
RHS Principal Harrison’s 1st Weekly Update Packed With Information
RHS Weekly Update #1 Welcome Back🙂
In this first edition of the RHS Community Weekly Update you will find information on the following:
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New Staff
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Guidance News
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Review of the Bell Schedule
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Student Picture Day
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Summer Reading Information
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Handbook Changes
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Information from the Nurse’s Desk
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Updates from the Cafeteria
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First Day of School Paperwork
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Extracurricular Activities and Athletics News
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Upcoming Events
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Entry Plan Parent Meeting
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Back to School Night Information
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Staying Informed
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Reflections
Go to Principal Harrison’s blog for all the back to school information that you will need!!
Music Department to Host Kenny Hadley Big Band / Summer Jazz Concert
If you like the idea of sitting outside on a summer day listening to the sounds of classic and contemporary jazz, an upcoming, family-friendly, community event in Rockland may be just for you.
Hosted by the Rockland Public Schools’ Music Department with funding by the Rockland Cultural Arts Council and One Rockland, the Kenny Hadley Big Band will perform on Sunday, Aug. 21 from 1 to 4 pm at the Rockland High School/Middle School outdoor concert area. Admission is free.
Drummer Kenny Hadley’s 16-member jazz band has performed classic and contemporary big band jazz selections for over 30 years. The band’s musicians have extensive resumes that include playing with some of the biggest names in jazz, including Woody Herman, Count Basie, Stan Kenton, Maynard Ferguson, and Buddy Rich. Some members also perform and travel with the Boston Pops Orchestra, and the band also has played at the Boston Globe Jazz Festival.
For more information about the Kenny Hadley Band go to the band’s Facebook page.
Kenny Hadley Big Band scheduled to perform on August 21 from 1-4 pm at Rockland Middle School outdoor concert area.
On the following Friday evening, Aug. 26 at 6 pm, a Beatles tribute band, Studio Two, will perform at the same venue. For more information about this event go to this link.
For the Rockland community it will be two opportunities to enjoy live music, geared to all ages. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, sit back and enjoy the shows; food and drink will be available. In case of inclement weather, the concerts will be held in the high school auditorium.
What a great way to close out a great summer!
For additional information about the Kenny Hadley show, contact RPS Music Director, John Piazza at jpiazza@rocklandschools.org
Veritas Updates Principal’s Page
As most know, John Harrison is the new principal at Rockland High School. He assumed his position on July 1. The Veritas will therefore be updating the Principal’s Page on the Veritas website, beginning with Mr. Harrison’s first post on his blog (below). So, as always, check this page on the menu bar throughout the summer and the school year to get the latest from Rockland High School’s Principal https://rhsveritas.wordpress.com/principals-message/ or go directly to his blog: http://rocklandhs.blogspot.com
Friday, July 1, 2016
Greetings from the new RHS Principal!
July 1, 2016
Dear Rockland High School Community,
It is with great excitement that I begin as Principal of Rockland High School. I feel very fortunate to join a learning environment with a committed staff, passionate student body, and supportive community.
Over the past few months, I have enjoyed attending a variety of school-wide events that have allowed me to start to understand the culture of Rockland High School. I was impressed by the thoughtful expression of ideas and strong presentation skills our students displayed at the Spellman Oratorical Contest. I was amazed by the high quality talent our art and music students displayed at the Arts Festival. The care students exemplified for each other at the Student Government Council Awards Night not only indicated how strong this leadership organization is but the strong values our students have to support each other. I observed the level of rigor involved to be a National Honor Society member at the Induction Ceremony and left impressed at how the students ran the entire night from start to finish under the direction of their advisor. When I attended the prom and graduation, the strong connections between staff and students were evident and the tightly knit sense of community in Rockland stood out. The past four months have afforded me the opportunity to realize how lucky I am to be Principal of Rockland High School.
Over the the next few months I will be working on my entry plan as Principal. While I will be meeting with all stakeholders within the Rockland community throughout the course of the entry plan, one of the elements of this plan is to meet with students and parents. When the school year begins, I will sit down with students to better understand the strengths and needs of Rockland High School. Throughout the summer and into the fall season, I have set-up the following dates and times for parents to meet with me this summer:
Tuesday, July 19th
8am-9am: Room Location H141 (room across cafeteria)
6pm-7pm: Room Location H141 (room across cafeteria)
Tuesday, August 23rd
8am-9am: Room Location H141 (room across cafeteria)
6pm-7pm: Room Location H141 (room across cafeteria)
Wednesday, September 14th
6pm-7pm: Room Location H141 (room across cafeteria)
It would be helpful if all students and parents could take the time to complete this brief survey so I can get to know the Rockland High School community in anticipation of the upcoming school year. Throughout the summer, I encourage you to stay informed by visiting my blog at http://www.rocklandhs.blogspot.com or following me on twitter @RocklandHS. I wish you a restful, well-deserved summer and I am very much looking forward to working with you.
Sincerely,
John M. Harrison
Principal
Rockland High School
jharrison@rocklandschools.org
Molly Hurley, Class of 2013
On the right, Molly Hurley, Class of 2013, will be interning at WCVB this summer. She is a Communications major at Bridgewater State University.
Mike Ivanoskos, Veritas Staff
It is time at last for another edition of the alumni series!
Recently, I was able to catch up with Rockland High School’s Class of 2013 alumna Molly Hurley and conduct an interview. Hurley is a great developing writer and journalist who cannot thank RHS enough for the lending hand to success that it has provided in her life.
We asked her if she feels about her Bulldog roots. Hurley responded, “For me, being a Bulldog brings me so much pride. It reminds me of where my roots are, and how I’ve struggled and conquered some of my greatest battles. Being a Bulldog means I’m never alone. I have classmates, teammates, teachers and faculty members all rooting for me. From these statements we can see how being bulldog made Hurley battle tested in every challenge she has encountered up until now.
It is always important to remember where you came from to know where you are going. Hurley seems to understand that perfectly as she references how her experience at RHS helped her learn and grow during her tenure there. Hurley explained, “I’ve accomplished a lot since graduation and I can’t possibly thank all the teachers, coaches, and faculty members for providing such a stable foundation for me to grow. If I’m being honest, my education at RHS made me realize that school only gets harder. The advice and constructive criticism was always sincere and I wish I hadn’t taken it for granted.”
Molly Hurley, Class of 2013
Ms. McDonough wrote on one of my last papers, “Smart, beautiful women make it far in life.” Those words have followed me in everything I’ve set myself out to accomplish. The teachers I had while attending RHS knew I was capable of applying myself more to my schoolwork than I did when I sat in their classrooms. So, I think that’s what helped me succeed, the lessons that I learned.” This is a great credit to our teachers and other mentors at RHS for setting the tone for a supportive and motivation in-fused atmosphere.
You know the old saying, “High school is some of the best years of your life”? Well, that saying has not fallen on deaf ears when we hear the positive feedback about what RHS alumni have missed about their time here. Hurley said, “ RHS is a memorable place. There’s not much that I don’t miss. For starters, I miss the social life that RHS provided me! Most importantly, I miss Friday night football games.”
After Hurley’s RHS experience she was able to turn the page to the next chapter in her life. Hurley says, “After graduation I attended the University of Maine, where I studied Journalism. UMaine is a D1 school. The transition from being a big fish in a little pond to being little fish to a big pond was a little overwhelming. I had a blast in Maine, but realized how much I appreciated home once I left. I spent three semesters in Maine before I transferred to Bridgewater State University. I wanted to continue studying Journalism, but BSU didn’t offer Journalism as a major. After meeting with advisors I decided to enroll in Communication Studies and a Concentration in Media and Film. When I transferred, I told myself I wanted to start writing and telling stories again. I found out about the Comment, Bridgewater’s school newspaper and joined their staff. I wrote my first story on the 175th anniversary of Bridgewater State University.
This was my first time writing a story since my departure from The Veritas. The void that I felt when I was in Maine was suddenly filled. I’ve been writing for the Comment for three semesters now. I’m excited to enter my senior year as Editor-in-Chief. This summer I’ll be involved in a double internship with WCVB-TV and BTV which I’m also super excited about!” Hurley’s life has shown that sometimes change can be beneficial.
Hurley told us about her big long term plans for her future. Hurley tells, “The number one goal I set for myself when beginning my college education was to graduate. If all goes as planned I’ll graduate in 2017. I would like to graduate cum laude which is determined by your cumulative GPA. Someday, I’d like to see myself as a news reporter. I’ve learned so much about the media industry thus far and admire all the career opportunities this industry has to offer.”
Hurley had some great lasting advice for the Class of 2016. Hurley stated, “Don’t let anyone tell you that what you’re doing is insignificant or that you can’t do something. Life after high school is fun, but it’s time to take control of your life. I remember being told Journalism was a dying field and pursuing a career related to Journalism was pointless. I think of how much I’ve grown and how inspired I’ve been over the past few years. I’m proud of the choices that I’ve made. If you want something so badly, you’ll do anything and everything to get it. Class of 2016, get excited, be nervous and set goals for yourself. Rockland High School has prepared you to succeed, so go out and do just that.
Click here to see one of Molly’s pieces from her senior year at RHS!
In closing, a special thanks to RHS Class of 2013 alumna Molly Hurley for agreeing to conduct this interview and an on-camera interview with us (below). We wish her the best in her future endeavors.
This marks the final edition of the RHS Alumni Series for the 2015-16 school year! The Veritas would like to wish reporter and graduate, Mike Ivanoskos the best of luck in all his future endeavors. We will look forward to doing an alumni interview with him in the near future.
‘Devil’s Disciples’ defeat ‘God’s Children’ in Second Speedball Tournament
Devils’s Disciples captained by Joe and Dan Kimball defeated last year’s champs God’s Children. From left: Mike Ahern, Kevin Levesque, Jake Crawford, Joe Kimball, Steve Collyer, Dan Kimball and Jon Nguyen. photo by Hannah Boben.
Joe Taft, Veritas Sports Editor
The second annual Jared Lewis Quirk Speedball Tournament at Rockland High lived up to the hype. The returning champs, ‘God’s Children’, came back for a second run at a title. The large crowd in the gym saw an all-girls’ team battle through a couple of close games, as well as some other intriguing opening round matchups.
The ‘Spartans’, led by Kevin Strobel (WNE) as their goalie, defeated ‘The Lumberjacks’ in the first round and took ‘God’s Children’ to overtime before losing on day two. ‘Devil’s Disciples,’ led by the Kimball brothers, used a heavy-soccer tactic, and had a goal differential of almost +20 heading into the final day. ‘Bar Down’, captained by Joe Taft and Brett Schneider, played the Cinderella role after losing their opening game. They won both their games on the second day, including an upset win over the ‘Spartans,’ to advance to play on Friday. The ‘Thunder Donkeys,’ a team of strictly sophomores, rolled through the tournament to advance to the final day as well.
Though seventeen teams entered, only eight found themselves playing on the final day of the tournament. In the first game, ‘Bar Down’ continued their underdog prowess, defeating ‘Diversity’ in an overtime match. ‘Donnie’s Burgers’, led by Ian MacDonald and Pat Gorman, beat the ‘Barn Burners’ in the second game, also an overtime win, to move on to the next round. Bar Down was defeated by last year’s runner up, Team NB, and the young ‘Thunder Donkeys’ very nearly reached the championship before losing in a shootout with the whole crowd on their feet.
After the dust cleared, it was the championship matchup everyone was hoping for. Joe Kimball’s ‘Devils’ Disciples’ taking on Matt Clougherty’s ‘God’s Children.’ ‘God’s Children’ took the first game, setting up a decisive final game to crown the champion. The team’s battled hard, and at the end of regulation, defense was clearly the name of the game. A zero-zero tie heading into regulation was not what everyone expected from two high-flying offenses. Sam Collyer ripped a shot past Dylan Bernache in OT to capture the championship trophy for the ‘Disciples’. Collyer’s superior arm strength led him to the tournament MVP trophy as well.
Ryan Quirk holds a copy of the check for $3,829 dollars raised for his brother Jared’s Memorial Scholarship Fund at the second annual speedball tournament on June 8-10, 2016. photo by Hannah Boben
In the end, the tournament raised nearly $4,000 for the Jared Quirk ‘Good Guy” Scholarship. Some feelings may have been hurt on the court, but everything was for a great cause. Jared’s name will live on forever through the tournament, as well as through the mark he left on all of his classmates and friends.
Italian Meats
Hands Off
Team NB and Fans
Barn Burners
Diversity
The Spartans
Donnie’s Burger
Thunder Donkeys
Magical Mambas
the Lumberjacks
Bar Down
Angels
God’s Children
Scoop and Score
Hell Hounds
Vicious and Delicious
The winners
Bridget Reardon
Saucier makes a move
Parlee goes up for the jump
Steve Collyer MVP
Kaylee Patten
photos by Abby Condon, Carolyn McCarthy and Hannah Boben.
Teams in addition to those mentioned were: Angels, Hands Off, Vicious and Delicious, Magical Mambas Scoop and Score, Hell Hounds, Diversity, and Italian Meats
Academic Hall of Fame and Underclassmen Awards
Left to right: Janet Colebourn Begin, Susan J. Darwin and David Oliver-Hussey
Three Rockland High School alumni were inducted into the Rockland High School Academic Hall of Fame on Wednesday, June 8 at the Emerald Hall in Abington. They are Susan J. Darwin from the Class of 1979, Janet Colebourn Begin from the Class of 1982 and David Oliver-Hussey of the Class of 1984.
After the Hall of Fame Induction academic underclassmen awards were given out. Following is a list of award winners and a photo gallery of some of the winners.
I Dare You Award Winner; Colleen McCarthy
National Leadership Award (formerly I Dare You Award) – Colleen McCarthy
Rensselaer Medal Scholarship Award – Mathematics and Science – Mitchell Ryan
Recognition of Math Team – Grade 11 – Michael Belmonte, Luana Lima, Caitlin McArthur, Vivian Nguyen,; Grade 10 – Elias Csubak, Ronan McNally, Saoirse McNally, Alexander Domina, Joseph Naughton, Sean Sugrue, Haley Chase-Crocker, Nicholas Walker, Rebekah Panaro Grade 9 – none
Art Awards: Shawn Ward – Boston Globe/Scholastic Art Show–- Two Honorable Mentions for Drawing; Colleen Burke – Second Parish Church of Hingham Art Show – 3rd Place for 3D Art
Veritas Journalism Award – Adiza Alasa – Special Achievement Award from the New England Scholastic Press Association
High Honors Three Terms This Year – Grade 11 – none; Grade 10 – Stephanie Blaney, Sabrina Sprague, Sean Sugrue; Grade 9 – Adiza Alasa, Tyler Beatrice, John Ellard, Michelle Ramoska, Declan Rogers
St. Michael’s College Book Award – Luana Lima
Joe Naughton, Alex Domina, Ronan McNally and Saoirse McNally received certificates recognizing their achievements with an environmental project.
National Energy Education Award – “Amped up in Rockland Project”, earned the Massachusetts Rookie of the Year Award for: Joseph Naughton, Saoirse McNally, Ronan McNally, Alexander Domina
Academic Excellence Certificates and Academic Letters:
Juniors: Jessica Lutts;
Sophomores: Kellie Berry, Stephanie Blaney, Eden Dalton, Alexander Domina, Olivia Elie, Rebecca Elliott, Aiden Glennon, Harrison Hunter, Margaret Jones, Meredith Long, Lily Matson, Joseph Naughton, Danielle O’Brien, Harrison O’Brien, Matthew O’Brien, Christopher Penney, Zachary Peterson, Jocelyn Reera, Sean Sugrue, Isabelle Uong
Boys State – Matthew Dunn, Leonard Field III Girls State – Julia DiCienzo, Colleen McCarthy Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership Award – Jillian Schofield Mass STAR Youth Leadership Award – Aiden Glennon
Eden Dalton and Ms. Paulding
John Ellard and Ms. Paulding
Nicole Atkins and Ms. Paulding
Ms. Wozniak with Mitchell Ryan, Justin Wright and Richard Pattison
Mr. Casagrande, Joseph Naughton and Michael Belmonte
Mr. Murphy with Andrew Wile, Aiden Glennon and Justin Sherlock
Mrs. Palmer with World Language Award winners: Tatianna Hill, Katie Houde, Sabrina Sprague and Rebecca Taylor.
Elias Jones, Gr. 9 Tech Ed Award winner
Shannon Lindahl with Ms. Paulding. Shannon was awarded for English and Science.
Ms. Paulding and Sarah Pollard, Grade 9 Art and Tech Ed. winner
Michelle Ramoska, Academic Award for History/Social Science and Math
Luana Lima won St. Michael’s College Book Award for and outstanding high school junior.
Sean Vo, Shannon Lindahl, Nicole Atkins, Luana Lima, Lauren Zaremba and Michael Belmonte, Academic Letter winners
Jillian Schofield, Hugh O’Brien Leadership Award
Meredith Long, Gr. 10, Kellie Berry Gr. 10, Francisco Oliveira, Gr. 9 and Luana Lima, Gr. 11 with Ms. Cahill, English Department Head.
Art Awards: Ms. Thompson, Elizabeth Kelley, Hannah Millen, Jillian Scholfield
ART
Gr. 9 Elizabeth Kelley,
Gr. 10 Jillian Schofield, Samantha Stodder
Gr. 11 Shawn Ward, Hannah Millen
DIGITAL MEDIA
Gr. 9 Justin Sherlock
Gr. 10 Aiden Glennon, Andrew Wile
Gr. 11 Andrew Finerty, Sara Boucher
ENGLISH
Gr. 9 Francisco Oliveira
Gr. 10 Meredith Long, Kellie Berry
Gr. 11 Luana Lima
Jasmin Morse and Isabel Pica, Family/Consumer Science award winners
FAMILY CONSUMER SCIENCE
Gr. 9 Jasmin Morse
Gr. 11 Isabel Pica
WORLD LANGUAGE
Gr. 9 Katie Houde
Gr. 10 Sabrina Sprague, Rebecca Taylor
Gr. 11 Tatianna Hill
HEALTH
Gr. 9 Jacob Nunn, Lanaya Dutcher
Mr. Casagrande, Joseph Naughton and Michael Belmonte
MATHEMATICS
Gr. 10 Joseph Naughton
Gr. 11 Michael Belmonte
MUSIC
Gr. 9 Angelina Vuong, Mireese Wilson
Gr. 10 Erin Field
Gr. 11 Sean Vo, Lauren Zaremba
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Gr. 9 Sean Morrissey, Megan Diver
Gr. 10 Joseph Campanile
Gr. 11 Nicole Reera
SCIENCE
Gr. 9 Marissa Smith, Alyssa Antoniewicz
Gr. 10 Danielle O’Brien, Stephanie Blaney
Gr. 11 Jessica Lutts
Ms. Wozniak with Mitchell Ryan, Justin Wright and Richard Pattison
PRE-ENGINEERING
Gr. 9 Justin Wright
Gr. 10 Nicholas Stanton
Gr. 11 Mitchell Ryan, Richard Pattison
HISTORY/SOCIAL SCIENCE
Gr. 9 Declan Rogers
Gr. 10 Saoirse McNally
Gr. 11 Matthew Rocha, Julia DiCienzo
TECHNICAL EDUCATION
Gr. 9 Elias Jones
Gr. 10 Ryan Kelley, Harrison O’Brien
Gr. 11 multi-winners
Nicole Atkins and Ms. Paulding
MULTI-AWARD WINNERS
Gr. 9 Adiza Alasa English, World Language
Tyler Beatrice Family Consumer Science, Mathematics
Michelle Ramoska Mathematics, History/Social Science
Sarah Pollard Art, Technical Education
Gr. 10 Sean Sugrue Mathematics, History/Social Science
Gr. 11 Shannon Lindahl English, Science
Noelle Atkins World Language, Mathematics
Derric Trudeau Technical Education, Physical Education
Overall Academic Achiever: John Ellard and Ms. Paulding
OVERALL OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC ACHIEVER
Grade 9 John Ellard
Grade 10 Eden Dalton
Math team: Joe Naughton, Alexander Domina, Nicholas Walker, Ronan and Soirse McNally, Sean Sugrue
Colleen McCarthy, Leonard Field III and Julia DiCienzo, Girls and Boys State
Honor Roll Certificates: Sabrina Sprague, Stephanie Blaney and Sean Sugrue
Art Awards: Ms. Thompson, Elizabeth Kelley, Hannah Millen, Jillian Scholfield
Jasmin Morse and Isabel Pica, Family/Consumer Science award winners
Music Awards: Sean Vo, Wilson, Erin Field, Angelina Vuong, Lauren Zaremba
Mr. Grimmett with Declan Rogers, Saoirse McNally, Julia DeCienzo, and Matthew Rocha, History/Social Science Award winners
Ms. Hoyo and Ms. Wozniak with Jessica Lutts, Danielle O’Brien, Stephanie Blaney, Marissa Smith and Alyssa Antoniewicz Science Award winners
Adiza Alasa, Gr. 9 World Languages and English Multi Award winner
Sean Sugrue, Grade 10 History/Social Science and Math Award winner
Megan Diver and Nicole Reera, Physical Education Awards
Ms. Hoyo with Jessica Lutts who won an academic letter and an honor roll certificate
Class Officers for Next Year Announced
Kaylee Patten – Class of 2017 President
Colleen McCarthy – Class of 2017 Vice President
Shawn Ward – Class of 2017 Secretary
Julia DiCienzo – Class of 2017
Jill Donahue, Veritas Asst. Managing Editor
Class elections took place on June 8, and officers were announced. Speeches were played in history classes throughout the week and students got to vote on who will be the best representative for them. Each class has a President, Vice president, Secretary and Treasurer. The final results are below.
Class of 2017:
President: Kaylee Patten
Vice president: Colleen McCarthy
Secretary: Shawn Ward
Treasurer: Julia DiCienzo
Class of 2018 Officers- Izzy Uong, Hannah Boen, Jill Donahue, Hannah Murphy photo by Michelle Downey.
Class of 2018:
President: Hannah Boben
Vice president: Jillian Donahue
Secretary: Hannah Murphy
Treasurer: Izzy Uong
Class of 2019 Officers – Madison Blonde, John Ellard, Abby Condon, Justin Sherlock photo by Michelle Downey.
Class of 2019:
President: John Ellard
Vice president: Abby Condon
Secretary: Madison Blonde
Treasurer: Justin Sherlock
Senior athletes honored with awards
Winners of silver bowls for earning 10 or more letters in their high school careers were left to right: Shane Murray, Sarah Margolis and Caroline Kilduff. Shown here with Gary Graziano, RHS athletic director.
ROCKLAND ATHLETIC AWARDS -2016
WOMAN’S COACHES AWARD – Samantha DeMarco
(Senior female student/athlete)
VICKI SOLARI AWARD – Kyra Rose
(Most inspirational female athlete)
SENIOR FEMALE ATHLETIC AWARD – Caroline Kilduff
(Top senior female athlete)
MARION MANSFIELD DONOVAN AWARD – Caroline Kilduff
(Top female student/athlete)
JOHN BELL BULLDOG AWARD – Alexandria Carchedi
(Female who plays over and above abilities)
JOHN BELL BULLDOG AWARD – Harrison Shields and Shane Murray
(Male who plays over and above abilities)
PETER J. CROWLEY AWARD – Stephen Norris
(Top senior male athlete)
JOSEPH DONDERO AWARD – Matthew Kirslis
(Top male student/athlete)
LOUIS CIFELLO AWARD – Ryan Shea
(Most inspirational male athlete)
Mr. MacAllister presents Jonathan Nguyen with the WARREN NAJARIAN AWARD for the athlete who never gives up.
Mrs. McGonnigal presents Kylie McKenna with the JOHN DELOREY AWARD – for a female athlete that exemplifies sportsmanship.
Mr. Johnson presents Samantha DeMarco with the WOMEN’S COACHES’ AWARD for a Senior Female Athlete.
Mr. Damon presents Joe Kimball with the ROBERT ELLIS AWARD given to a top student athlete/basketball player.
Mr. Damon presents Stephen Norris with the PETER J. CROWLEY AWARD.
Mr. Liquori presents Harrison Shields with the JOHN BELL AWARD.
Mr. Graziano presents Shane Murray with the JOHN BELL AWARD.
Mr. MacAllister presents Lexie Carchedi with the JOHN BELL AWARD.
JOSEPH DUNN AWARD – Kevin Levesque
(Top student/athlete football player)
WARREN NAJARIAN BULLDOG PRIDE AWARD – Angela Turner
(Female athlete that never gives up)
WARREN NAJARIAN BULLDOG PRIDE AWARD –Jonathan Nguyen
(Male athlete that never gives up)
JOHN DELOREY AWARD – Kylie McKenna
(Female athlete that exemplifies sportsmanship)
JOHN DELOREY AWARD – Ryan Sugrue
(Male athlete that exemplifies sportsmanship)
ROBERT ELLIS AWARD – Joseph Kimball
(Top Male Student/Athlete Basketball Player)
CHARLES E. LEVERONE AWARD – Sarah Margolis
(Top Female Track or Cross Country Runner)
CHARLES E. LEVERONE AWARD – Shane Darcy
(Top Male Track or Cross Country Runner)
Veritas Final Broadcast of the Year: June 9, 2016
The final Veritas broadcast of the year includes an interview with retiring Superintendent of Schools John Retchless, and RHS Principal Dr. Alan Cron. Highlights of the Class of 2016 Graduation and interviews with teachers about their summer plans are also included.
This broadcast was produced by members of the Journalism class. Jill Donahue filmed the graduates’ walk through elementary schools; Molly Grass conducted the interviews with teachers about their summer plans. Sarah Boucher and Rebecca Elliott of the Digital Media class filmed graduation; Hannah Boben conducted the interview with John Retchless and Adiza Alasa served as anchor for the broadcast with Theodora Panagiotidis, Kaylee Ellis, Joe Taft, Patrick Murphy and Hope Geary in the control room.
Graduation Ceremony June 3, 2016
Link to Graduation in photo gallery.
The Class of 2016 Graduation on Friday night June 3, 2016 was a bittersweet ceremony in which 129 received diplomas. Following are details about the class.
Ryan Sugrue
Valedictorian: Ryan Sugrue
Salutatorian: Lexie Carchedi
Class president: Michael Ahern
Ashley Pezzella’s cap
Class color: Navy Blue and White
Class flower: Rose
Class motto: Once a Bulldog, Always a Bulldog
Graduates: 129
Quote of the day: “Class of 2016, I wish you nothing but the best of luck. Don’t mess it up.” – Teacher Nicholas Liquori
ROCKLAND HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2016
Michael Ahern, Ashley Arena, Justin Arena, Trevaughn Augustine, Samantha Aylward, Erika Barstad, Sara Bistany, Lucy Boggs, Riley Bouchard, Jeremy Bradley, Mickey Burns, Joseph Callahan, Jonathan Cannon, Alexandria Carchedi, Sean Carney, Albert Clark, Samuel Collyer, Liam Connelly, Kevin Costello, Dylan Cunningham.
Class Officers: Mike Ahern, president, Matt Kirslis, vice president, Zach Pranky, secretary, and Sean Carney, treasurer. photo by Gary Higgins, Patriot Ledger
Shane Darcy, Leah DeCecco, Samantha DeMarco, Marquis Denis, Ashley DeWolfe, Andrew Doig, Kaitlin Dorney, Shane Driscoll, Shelise Dutcher, Kaylee Ellis, Mark Ewell, Meghan Foster, Austin Gareau, Brad Gasdia, Tamara Gibson, John Glennon, Brendan Goudy, Anthony Gramazio, Lauren Grisolia, Garritt Guerrero, Alyssa Hatch, Caitlin Hedges, Ryan Hooper, Sarah Hunter, Christie Hurley, Cassidy Hyson, Lauren Illes, Michael Ivanoskos.
Taia Johnson, Sarah Kane, Kylie Keefe, Caroline Kilduff, Samuel Kimari, Joseph Kimball, Brittany King, Abigail Kinlin, Matthew Kirslis, Elizabeth Knobel, John Lampert, Riley Lang, Raye LaPlante, Jr., Thomas Lavertue, Talya Lazisky, Daniel Leary, Jr., John Lenihan, Kevin Levesque, Jr., Kalee Lucier-Hill.
Brian MacDonald, Haley Macray, Owen Mahoney, Gregory Makarski, Liam Maloney, Jennifer Manning, Jillian Manning, Sarah Margolis, Russell McCauley, Brianna McConville, Kylie McKenna, Thomas McKim, Jr., Hunter Morris, Jeremy Morrison, Tyler Murphy, John Murray, Shane Murray, Jonathan Nguyen, Stephen Norris, Jenna O’Connor, Jared Ochenduszko, Prisca Okonkwo, Ryan Palmer, William Parlee, Myah Parsons, Ana Paula Pedra, Ashley Pezzella, Kaleigh Pishkin, Rebeca Portela, Zachary Pransky.
National Honor Society
Carly Reardon, Gustavo Ribeiro, Mitchell Rice, Bella Rindone, Jo Roberts, Michael Rocha, Celia Rosa, Kyra Rose, Levi Sahn, Alecio Sampaio Jr, Taylor Schell, Ryan Shea, Harrison Shields, Steven Shorrock, Treasure Smith, Thomas Spengler, Alyssa Stanton, Adria Stephens, Ryan Sugrue, Timothy Sullivan, Jon Sylvester, Syann Teixeira, Kiera Tobin-Rosman, Angela Turner, Taylor Whitley, Erika Wiley, Patrick Winter, Makayla Wright, Hao Xu, John Yandle, Caitlin Yannizzi, Fanting Zhou.
Link to Graduation in photo gallery. with more pictures to be added as we receive them!
Class of 2016: Caps and Gowns
Before graduation seniors gathered in the gym to get ready for the ceremony. Some steamed their gowns, all posed for pictures, and some showed off their decorative caps. Following are photos by Hannah Boben and Michelle Downey, Veritas Photographers. First a look at some of the decorated caps.
Haley Macray
Ryan Sugrue
Ashley Pezzella’s cap
Billy Parlee
Celia Rosa
Caitlin Yannizzi’s cap says its all
Pictures with friends, classmates, teachers and some selfies! We will be adding more to these galleries so keep checking back.
Cheerleaders! Sam Alyward, KTR, Kylie Keefe, Carly Reardon
Ashley Pezzella and her mother before graduation
Five guys
Ryan Sugrue
Ashley Pezzella
Dr. Cron Selfie
National Honor Society
Dan Biggins and Kyra Rose
Caroline Kilduff, Erika Ochenduszko and Kyra Rose
Some of the graduates
We love these Bulldogs!
DeMarco, Carchedi and Kinlin
Jen Wozniak and Rebeca Portella
Ms. Paulding, Stephen Shorrock and Mrs. McGonnigal
Lots of Bulldogs!
Harrison Shields and Mike McPeck
Haley Macray
Lots more Bulldogs
Illes, Boggs and DeCecco
Striking a pose one more time!
Ms Sullivan and two of her students.
Angela Turner and Jillian and Jennifer Manning
Kaitlin Dorney and Caroline Kilduff
Talya Lazisky, Cassidy Hyson and Kaylee Ellis
Taylor Schell, Ryan Hooper, Brian McDonald and Gustavo Ribeiro are entering the military upon graduation.
Brianna McConville and Mike Rocha
Group shot
Meghan Foster and Zach Pransky
Check back to see our gallery of the ceremony itself!
It’s Official: The Class of 2016 has graduated
Class President Mike Ahern directs the turning of the tassel, signifying that the Class of 2016 has graduated! photo by Michelle Downey
The Class of 2016 celebrates by tossing their caps into the air! Photo by Michelle Downey
Check back to see more photos of the graduates and the ceremony!
Annual Speedball Tournament to Be Held Next Week
Joe Taft, Veritas Sports Editor
As the end of the school year is upon the student population at Rockland High, usually the kids would have their minds set on summer vacation.
Since just last year, a newfound tradition at RHS has the whole school buzzing.
At the Jared Lewis Quirk Speedball Tournament, held at the high school from June 8th through 10th, 17 teams will all be vying for school-wide greatness.
The games will be 15 minutes long with no stoppages in play, and on-the-run substitutions are implemented, like hockey.
Ms. Walsh is in charge of the tournament, and has seeded all the teams and created all the match-ups. The champions of last year’s tournament, God’s Children, captained by Matt Clougherty, is the number one seed. Team NB, captained by Ryan Quirk, will be the 2-seed. These two team’s faced each other last year in the championship, and it took a shootout to crown the victor.
Though those teams are the heavy favorites, there are some other teams to watch out for heading into the tournament. The Barn Burners are led by Eddie Yeadon and features a team of 2016 grads, while Tyler and Terrence Gibson look to lead the Lumberjacks to the title.
The tournament will also feature an all-girls squad, named Hands-Off, who will go up against Italian Meats in the first game of the tournament.
No matter what the outcome, the tournament is sure to be a success. All proceeds will go towards Jared’s scholarship fund.
Let the madness begin!
Seniors Visit Their Old Schools
Caitlin Yannizzi is excited at Jefferson School. photo by Hannah Boben
Syann Teixeira and Mike Ahern are all smiles as they walk through the hall at Memorial Park Elementary School in Rockland. photo by Michelle Downey.
Walking through the halls at Esten school are Sarah Margolis, Haley Macray, Meghan Foster and Lexie Carchedi. Also visible are Matt Kirslis and Mike Ahern. photo by Michelle Downey.
Ryan Sugrue shakes hands with an Esten elementary school student. Behind Ryan are Lexie Carchedi, Sarah Margolis, Haley Macray, Matt Kirslis, John Murray. Veritas staff photo.
Veritas Staff
About 50 members of the Rockland High School Class of 2016 visited each of Rockland’s elementary schools on Tuesday, May 31. The seniors walked down to Memorial Park School after visiting the Rogers Middle School. After being greeted by the school children and some of their former teachers at Memorial Park School, they boarded a bus and traveled to Jefferson Elementary where they processed once again through the halls, the cafeteria and the playground. The final stop was Esten Elementary where they were applauded by the school children as they visited the cafeteria, the gym, and the playground and walked the halls that many of them had once walked in their early days of school.
RHS Asst. Principal, Kathy Paulding, said, “This event serves two unique purposes. For the younger students in the district who look up to our student athletes, or have them as a baby sitter, or are related to them, the walk serves as another way for them to see what their hard work can lead to. The goal was to inspire the younger students to strive to wear the cap and gown in the future. The other benefit of the walk is for our seniors to reflect on where they started this journey and to walk the halls of the elementary and middle schools again and remember how long they have worked for this goal and take pride in the accomplishment.”
Haley Macray was one of the seniors who took a stroll down memory lane. “I think the event went really well. It was a reminder of how far I’ve come in the Rockland school system. Going to Esten, my former elementary school was the most special part. That’s where it all began. Rockland schools have made me who I am and I owe them a lot.”
Macray also thought that the experience was great for the elementary school children. “Being able to say hi and give high fives to the graduating classes to come was an incredible experience and I’m so glad I got to be a part of it!”
Rockland High School’s graduation is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Friday, June 3, 2016 at Rockland Memorial Stadium.
Photos below are by Hannah Boben and Michelle Downey, Veritas Staff Photographers
Caitlin Yannizzi leads a walk down the hall at Esten Elementary School photo by Michelle Downey
Adria Stevens at Esten photo by Michelle Downey
Esten playground photo by Hannah Boben
photo by Michelle Downey
Kate Dorney, Adria Stevens, Makayla Wright and Kaylee Eliis.photo by Hannah Boben
Sarah Hunter at Memorial Park By Michelle Downey
Bella Rindone and Sam Aylward at Memorial ParkHannah Boben
photo by Michelle Downey
At Esten cafeteria Michelle Downey
Matt Kirlslis, Abby Kinlin, Sarah Margolis, Sam DeMarco, Lexie Carchedi and Ryan Sugrue photo by Hannah Boben
Veritas ‘Man on the Street’: What will you miss about the senior class?
Veritas Staff’s Joe Taft and Kaylee Ellis put together this video getting students and teachers’ reaction to the Class of 2016. What will you miss about those lovable seniors?
Seniors Celebrate Last Day of Classes
Veritas Staff
On Wednesday, May 25, the Class of 2016 celebrated their final day of classes.
Sarah Margolis and Lexie Carchedi show off their decorated cars.
Meghan Foster decorates her car
Meghan Foster’s decorated car
Sarah Margolis, Lexie Carchedi, and Mike Ahern show off their decorated cars.
Back row: Shelise Dutcher, Lauren Grisolia, Erika Barstad, Kate Dorney & Mike Ivanoskos. Front row: Lexie Carchedi, Sam DeMarcho, and Abby Kinlin
Celia Rosa
Adria Stephens
Ms. Rizzotti’s Calculus Class
Mike Ahern & Sean Carney
Sean Carney & Brad Gasdia
Meghan Foster & Boggs
Lexie Carchedi & Mike Ahern
Mr. Neal’s AP Literature class
Members of Mr. Neal’s AP Literature class celebrate the last day with a class spent outside
Brad Gasdia
Ryan Sugrue
Meghan Foster & Zach Pransky
Carly Reardon, Liz Knobel, Sam Alyward, Abby Kinlin, Kiera Tobin-Rosman, & Kylie Keefe
JD Linehan & Sean Carney
Shane Murray & Gustavo Ribero
JD Linehan, Shane Murray, and Gustavo Ribero
Ashley Pezzella
Mr. Neal & Taylor Whitley
Haley Macray & Mike Ahern
Ms. Sullivan’s Spanish IV Seniors
Zach Pransky & Mike Ahern
AP Psychology
Ryan Sugure
Class of 2016 dresses in red, white, and blue as part of Senior Week
Liz Knobel, Kiera Tobin-Rosman, Sam Aylward, Kylie Keefe, & Carly Reardon
Haley Macray, Veritas Senior Managing Editor
On Tuesday, May 24, the senior class continued their week of school spirit with a red, white, and blue dress up day. The halls of RHS were filled with American pride and excitement for seniors’ final day of classes tomorrow, May 24.
Bottom row: Kiera Tobin-Rosman, Sam DeMarco, Lexie Carchedi, & Kylie Keefe Middle row: Abby Kinlin, Liz Knobel, & Carly Reardon Top: Sam Alyward
Liz Knobel, Kiera Tobin-Rosman, Sam Aylward, Kylie Keefe, & Carly Reardon
Sam DeMarco, Abby Kinlin, & Lexie Carchedi
Sam DeMarco, Abby Kinlin, & Lexie Carchedi
Back Row: Caitlin Yannizzi, Carly Reardon, Abby Kinlin, Sam DeMarco, Sam Alyward, & Haley Macray Front Row: Kiera Tobin-Rosman, Liz Knobel, Kylie Keefe, & Lexie Carchedi
John Glennon
Mike Ahern & Brad Gasdia
Johnny Murray & Lexie Carchedi
Haley Macray, Meghan Foster, and Lexie Carchedi
RHS Seniors Represent Future Colleges and Universities
Ryan Sugrue (Boston College), Kate Dorney (UMass Lowell), Jenna O’Connor (Nichols College), & Jared Ochenduszko (Worchester State)
Haley Macray, Veritas Senior Managing Editor
On Monday, May 23, the Class of 2016 decided to kick off their last week of high school by representing their future colleges, universities, and future plans via their t-shirts.
Jared Ochenduszko, Worchester State University
Caitlin Yannizzi, Stonehill College & Caroline Kilduff, Curry College
Caitlin Yannizzi, Stonehill College, Ryan Sugrue, Boston College, & Haley Macray, Bentley University
Ryan Sugrue (Boston College), Kate Dorney (UMass Lowell), Jenna O’Connor (Nichols College), & Jared Ochenduszco (Worchester State)
Caroline Kilduff, Curry College
Jared Ochenduszko, Worchester State University & Jenna O’Connor, Nichols College
Ryan Sugrue, Boston College, Kate Dorney, UMass Lowell, Jenna O’Connor, Nichols College, & Jared Ochenduszco, Worchester State
Caitlin Yannizzi, Stonehill College & Ryan Sugrue, Boston College
Ashley Pezzella & Kylie McKenna will both attend Suffolk University
Ryan Sugrue, Boston College
Kate Dorney, UMass Lowell
Meghan Foster, Assumption College & Haley Macray, Bentley University
Sean Carney, Fitchburg State & Boggs, Mass Maritime Academy
Meghan Foster and Zach Pransky will both attend Assumption College next year.
NHS Induction Held at RHS
Superintendent of Schools John Retchless and math teacher Steven Casagrande were made honorary members of the RHS National Honor Society on Wednesday, May 18, 2016. Veritas photo
The RHS Pentelic Chapter of the National Honor Society held its annual induction of new members on Wednesday, May 19. Senior NHS President Ryan Sugrue presided as sixteen juniors and two seniors were inducted.
They include juniors, Noelle Atkins, Erin Buckley, Julia DiCienzo, Luana Lima, Shannon Lindahl, Jessica Lutts, Colleen McCarthy, Christopher McHugh, Michael McPeck, Vivian Nguyen, Kaylee Patten, Dana Peck, Meghan Saucier, Sean Vo, Sydney Wells, Mohammed Youssef and seniors Kylie McKenna and Fanting Zhou.
Senior members (shown in photo) were also recognized. Each senior member stood as NHS Secretary Haley Macray called the roll and announced the school that each will attend next year.
In a traditional salute to their educational mentors, two honorary members of the seniors’ choice were inducted: math teacher, Steven Casagrande and Superintendent of Schools, John Retchless.
NHS Officers: Seniors Sarah Margolis, Haley Macray, Ryan Sugrue and Meghan Foster. Veritas photo.
Mrs. Black (left) with senior NHS members: Kylie McKenna, Haley Macray, Kaitlin Dorney, Caroline Kilduff, Lexie Carchedi, Meghan Foster, Sarah Margolis, Fanting Zhou, Celia Rosa. Kevin Levesque, Matt Kirslis, Ryan Sugrue, Mark Ewell, Jared Ochenduszko, Tom Spengler photo by Zach Pransky
Veritas, Images Receive New England Scholastic Press Association Awards
Haley Macray, senior managing editor of the Veritas with the All-New England first place certificate received by the Veritas on May 2
Two Rockland High School student print publications, The Veritas and Images Magazine, received Highest Achievement Awards on Tuesday, May 2 at the New England Scholastic Press Association’s annual conference.
Celia Rosa, Sarah Hunter, Luana Lima and Lauren Zaremba are excited to hear about Images’ Highest Achievement Award.
Highest Achievement awards, according to NESPA Director Helen Smith, are given to only those publications considered to be of highest quality in content and editing. In addition, the Veritas website also received a Highest Achievement award. With a Highest Achievement designation each publication is then entered into the All-New England contest.
This year, for the second year in a row, The Veritas newspaper came in first in the All-New England contest in Class III.
Awards are given in four classifications that are based on student enrollment. A school with an enrollment between 400 and 699 students is Class III.
Individual Special Achievement Awards were also announced at the conference. Adiza Alasa, a freshman in the Journalism class received an award for her sports story, “Girls basketball team wins league title,” printed in the February edition of the Veritas.
Adiza Alasa received a Special Achievement Award for her sports story, “Girls Basketball Team Wins League Championship.”
Smith said that Special Achievement Awards are given to individual stories, photos, and graphic designs that are “truly exemplary.” Out of over 1,000 individual entries, only 125 students were recognized individually. Alasa’s story competed against student submissions in all four enrollment classes.
Madeline Lannin-Cotton, advisor to the Veritas, said, “The All-New England first place award is quite an honor, considering that publications from all six New England states are entered into the competition. This year’s Journalism students were very excited to learn about their achievement. For our senior editor, Haley Marcy, it is her second first-place award as an editor of the Veritas.”
NHS to Sponsor Voter Registration Drive
Photo: thebestcolleges.org
Haley Macray, Veritas Senior Managing Editor
Hectic teen schedules and lack of information can no longer be reasons for RHS students to skip registering to vote, thanks to NHS.
On May 16th and May 17th, the Rockland High School chapter of the National Honor Society will be sponsoring a voter registration drive in the high school cafeteria during all three lunches.
During this drive students who are Massachusetts residents may register to vote and students aged 16 and 17 will be able to pre-register to vote before they turn 18. Students will need either their license number or the last four digits of their social security number in order to register.
As the flyer emailed to students about the drive says, “Your vote is power, don’t let it go to waste.”
Seniors Travel to Italy for Grand Tour
Students pose in Florence for a group photo. Photo courtesy of Kristen Walsh.
Haley Macray, Veritas Senior Managing Editor
On April 14th, 19 Rockland High School Seniors and three RHS faculty members ventured off on a ten-day grand tour of Italy.
The group first landed in Milan where they met their tour guide Pablo. From Milan, the group traveled by bus to their first destination, Verona, the home of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Students and teachers visited what is said to be Juliet’s balcony and posed with the famous statue of her in the same courtyard. This day trip served as a great start to a wonderful trip.
The next day, RHS’s travelers took a boat to the famous city of Venice. There they started their day with a walking tour where they were taken into historical buildings, such as Doge’s Palace, with beautiful architecture and paintings inside. The students went on gondola rides, another great way for them to take in the beautiful scenery, and spent the remainder of the day sampling food and shopping in the heart of the city.
The next two days of the trip were spent in Florence. There, students and teachers participated in various activities.
A large number of students chose to spend their day climbing one of Florence’s most famous landmarks and one of its highest views, the Duomo di Firenze (Cathedral of Florence). Climbing over 400 stairs, students were able to take in one of the most incredible views of the entire trip.
After their time spent in Florence, the group was off to Assisi for another adventure. They explored the area and students and their chaperones visited the famous Basilica of Saint Francis.
Following Assisi, RHS’s travelers were off to Pompeii where they were able to visit the famous ruins, shop, and have lunch. The same day students were able to explore the Sorrento region of Italy, some trying its famous lemon gelato.
After the Sorrento region, it was on to the beautiful island of Capri. With its bright blue water and incredible mountains, the island was a sight to see. There, many students chose to take a ski-lift type ride up one of the island’s large mountains. At the top, they stopped to take in the scenery and pose for photos.
The trip concluded with a day spent in Rome. Trip members toured the Vatican and ended their trip at the Trevi Fountain, a symbol of Italy and Rome. It is said that if a coin is thrown into the fountain over your left shoulder, you will return to Rome again in your lifetime. Students captured this moment with many photos.
Overall, the trip to Italy was an unforgettable experience for all those who attended.
Art Students’ Work In Two Shows
The Rockland High School Art Department has announced that many of its art students are currently having their work displayed in two shows.
Colleen Burke’s Mixed Media “Starry Night City” received an award at the Second Parish Church Arts Festival. photo courtesy Mrs. Gibson
The first show is the annual Second Parish Church Arts Festival.
The festival is going on from May 5 to May 15. Admission is free and the public is welcome. The Second Parish Church is on Main St. in Hingham.
The second show is at Bella’s restaurant on Hingham St. in Rockland. This show will be going on until the end of June.
These two shows provide great opportunities for people to see the work that Rockland art students are doing.
The following list includes RHS students and the art pieces that were selected for the Second Parish show.
Second Parish Church Show: May 5-15. Open daily 10 am to 8 am; Sundays Noon-4 pm. For more info click here.
Syan Teixeira’s computer art “Diamond Lion” received an Honorable Mention at the Second Parish Church Arts Festival. photo by Mrs. Gibson
Students: High School
- Caitlin Hedges – 3-D eye mixed media
- Celia Rosa – Surreal Hands colored pencil
- Shawn Ward – Pastel Still life
- Alyssa Hatch – 3-D diver mixed media
- Celia Rosa – Acrylic portrait
- Colleen Burke – String and painting mixed media
- Chistine Hurley – Buddah mixed media
- Caitlin Hedges – photography dog
- Syann Teixeira – Computer art Diamond Lion
- Kylie McKenna – ceramic gargoyle
- Shawn Ward – ceramic box and cover
Bella’s Restaurant Show : May 2- June 30: The art work is displayed in one of the lounges at Bella’s. Click on a photo to see a sampling of some of the work.
Proposal For New Athletic Facilities Clears First Hurdle
Veritas Staff
Though there is still controversy, plans to build new athletic facilities in the town moved forward Monday night at the annual town meeting. The $3.9 million plan put forward by the Park Department would feature a new football facility with turf field and seating for 800 spectators. The plan also provides an eight lane track and field facility, and would modernize Bicentennial Park on Lower Reed St. by adding two new softball fields and a soccer field in between. Baseball games will still be played at Veterans Memorial Stadium.
A new sports complex would benefit Rockland’s youth and high school sports immensely for generations to come, but some local veterans are opposed to the idea as it is now laid out. Because of the construction of the new complex, two veterans’ memorials in the area would have to be relocated. The veterans say that they are not against the new fields but are disappointed that they were not included in the planning.
Representing the veterans, Jeff Najarian said the softball field that would be relocated is dedicated to a Vietnam veteran. He also said that the pine trees called the Groves that would have to be displaced are also dedicated to veterans. Speaking for the plan Parks Commission member Steven Murphy said that the memorials could be relocated and the new fields could be rededicated. Murphy also said that the plans are not set in stone, but that the softball field by Memorial Park would have to be relocated to make room for the new facility.
After discussion from several townspeople who spoke both for and against the plan, the proposal was put to a vote and was passed by town meeting, allowing the plan to go to the next step, a special town election. This election will be held on June 11 when the public will vote on the $3.9 million debt exclusion that would fund the new sports facilities.
A community group called Rockland Fields Project has been formed and have a Facebook page. They have announced that an informational meeting to discuss the fields project will be held on Wednesday May 11th, 7pm at the Harmon Club on Concord Street. There will also be a meeting with all local veterans to discuss the replanting of trees, covered pavillion in the memorial area and rededication of the softball fields at 6pm, also at the Harmon Club. A post on the Facebook page states, “All are encouraged to attend so that together we can have a project that the whole town will be proud of.”
Please take our poll on the left hand side of our site.
Rockland Senior Gets Award in Congressional Art Show
Rockland High School senior, Syann Teixeira with her family and Congressman William R. Keating at the 9th Congressional District Art Show where Syann won 2nd place in computer art for her digital-collage, “Diamond Lion.” Syann’s computer drawing is on display at Bella’s Restaurant, Hingham St., Rockland until June 30. Courtesy photo.
Veritas Staff
At an awards ceremony held at the Plymouth Center for the Arts on April 29, Rockland High School senior Syann Teixeira won 2nd place in Computer Art for her digital collage, “Diamond Lion.” Congressman Bill Keating sponsored the 9th Congressional District’s Art Show held in Plymouth.
Each spring, a nationwide high school arts competition is sponsored by members of the House of Representatives.
Students interested in participating in the Congressional Art Competition submitted original artwork in one of seven different categories: Collage, Computer-generated art, Drawings, Mixed Media, Paintings, Photography, and Prints.
Theater Guild’s A Chorus Line Is a Success
Part of the finale chorus line: Erin Field, Morgan Foster, Sophie McLellan, Jeremy Bradley, Leah DeCecco and Sean Vo. Photo by Veritas Photographer, Hannah Boben
On Friday and Saturday, April 29 and 30, the Rockland High School Theater Guild under the direction of Rockland High School teachers, Joanne White and Kendra Donovan, put on the spring musical, A Chorus Line in the high school auditorium.
The talented cast of Rockland High School Theater Guild members featured seniors Leah DeCecco, Lauren Illes, Sarah Hunter, Jeremy Bradley and John Glennon.
Other cast members included: Jurnee Dunn, Sophie McLellan, Ryan Struzziery, Angelica Pacombe, Kellie Berry, Morgan Foster, Sean Vo, Shandi Austin, Erin Field, Ali Landy and Tatianna Hill.
Also involved in the production were: music director, John Piazza Jr.; choral director, Lindsay Crook; sound director, Lisa Breeden, and sound assistant, Chris Burnieka; stage manager, Kimberlie Jean-Poix, and asst. stage manager, Maddi Parlee; stage crew, Taylor Vernava, and Michael Belmonte; lighting director, Jamie Canaan; student choreographer, Shandi Austin; lighting operator, Seth Rosczewski; spot operator, Rebekah Panaro; and audio Assistant, Tatianna Hill.
In the orchestra in addition to directors, John Piazza and Lindsay Crook were Keven Delaney and Jeff Popadic (trumpets), Alan Cron (trombone), Mark Pinto, and Terry Anthony (reeds), Ron Zack (piano), Chris Rathburn (bass) and Kenny Hadley (drums).
RHS English Department Chair, Carol Cahill said about Saturday night’s performance, “It was a great night of theatre! Hats off to all the performers, tech crew, musicians, and to the directors, Kendra Donovan and Joanne White.”
For a complete story about the show with interviews of the cast, check the next issue of the Veritas print edition, due out on May 25.
The photo gallery below is by Hannah Boben!
Additional photos can be found in the Photo Gallery Menu
Leah DeCecco and Sophie McLellan in ballet dance number
Leah DeCecco, Jeremy Bradley, Sean Vo, Erin Field, Ryan Struzziery, Shandi Austin and Angelica Pacombe.
Jeremy Bradley, Sean Vo, Erin Field, Ryan Struzziery, Shandi Austin and Angelica Pacombe.
Jurnee Dunn and Leah DeCecco in A Chorus Line
Erin Field, Morgan Foster, Ali Landy, Lauren Illes and Angelica Pacombe
Shandi Austin was Greg and Erin Field played Al
Ali Landy, Ryan Struzziery and Shandi Austin
Senior Leah DeCecco sings “What I Did for Love” in the RHS musical A Chorus Line on April 29 and 30, 2016.
Part of the finale chorus line: Erin Field, Morgan Foster, Sophie McLellan, Jeremy Bradley, Leah DeCecco and Sean Vo.
The Finale
A Chorus Line
Advisors Joanne White and Kendra Donovan
Seniors with directors
Seniors in their last show are Jeremy Bradley, Leah DeCecco, John Glennon, Sarah Hunter and Lauren Illes
Funny group shot of cast and crew!
Cheerleaders Honored at State House
Senator John F. Keenan and the senior cheerleader captains: Seniors Sam Aylward, Bella Rindone, Carly Reardon, and Kylie Keefe
The State Champion Rockland High School Cheerleaders visited the State House in Boston today. They were guests of Senator John F. Keenan
Excitement Building For RHS Musical, A Chorus Line
Theater Guild and Music Dept. production!
By Hannah Boben, Veritas Staff
As the RHS Drama Club, Theatre Guild and newer theatre members team up for this weekend’s production of A Chorus Line, we are eager to learn more about the production itself.
A Chorus Line is a musical that follows the auditions that a group of dancers, singers and actors have to go through in order to get on the cast for a show. Throughout this casting progress, we will also learn more about each character as they either give us a short monologue or song to add depth to their characters.
As we in the audience learn more about the play’s cast’s difficulties in learning the choreography and musical numbers behind the play, we will also watch our own Rockland students become more adept with their performances and the challenges that go along with them.
Between learning the tough choreography, and the lyrics and music cues, the RHS cast is doing well according to their directors, teachers Joanne White and Kendra Donovan. “The cast has been amazing in terms of learning dance choreography. We are so proud of their overall progress. They have been more than willing to learn and take corrections.”
A Chorus Line will take place on April 29 and 30 at 7pm in the auditorium. Come out to see the cast shine and give the audience their all in A Chorus Line.
You can get tickets online at showtix4u.com for $6 or $8 at the door.
A Week To Be Positive!
The National Honor Society has named this week, April 25-29, a week to promote positivity around Rockland High School and beyond.
Monday is Positive Affirmation Day
Tuesday is Random Acts of Kindness Day
Wednesday is Compliment Day
Thursday is Reasons to Smile Day,
Friday will be Rockland Pride Day.
Click on each of the posters below to see the special instructions for each day!
Arts Festival Features All Kinds of Creations
On display at the Arts Festival were paintings by members of the Pathways class and the PhotoVoice exhibit. Veritas Photo
The Rockland Public Schools Arts Festival held last night featured displays of creativity in several different areas. The visual arts were well represented with displays of drawings, paintings, photography and 3D designs. Displays included work from pre-school to elementary to middle school and high school, including AP Portfolio collections of senior art students.
Technology Education was represented with exhibits that included woodworking projects, and computer drawings from the Auto Cad and Chief Architecture classes.
Mrs. Ashche’s Family and Consumer Science class projects included pillows, aprons and quilts Veritas photo
The Family and Consumer Science classes displayed a variety of sewing projects including quilts, fleece blankets and pillows.
Esten School 2nd grader Gus Noguera interacts with NAO the robot at the Arts Festival. Veritas photo.
Robotics and Engineering had their robotic creations on display which provided a lot of fun for the younger visitors to the arts festival. Robotics teacher Jennifer Wozniak said, “Kids and parents were excited about the engineering and robotics projects, including our humanoid robot, NAO. We need to make sure we are encouraging our younger students who show interest in science and math – especially the girls!”
Images Magazine, the Rockland High School Art and Literary Magazine, was on sale at the event. The magazine also has a website that you can access here.
Below is our photo gallery!
Yousra Bendarkawi, Art III: left Celeb Portrait in pastel, pencil and right: Pen and Ink Drawing.
Senior Celia Rosa’s Bulldog and activity drawing.
Grade 7 Geometrics: Circles, Patterns, Colors.
High School creative photography projects
Mrs. Palmer’s son, Jack, tries out the remote control car built by robotics students. Veritas photo
Left to right: Lauren Zaremba, Luana Lima, Jillian Schofield and Ryan Hooper at the Arts Festival on Tues. April 14. Veritas Photo
Sydney Ferguson’s Art III Pastel and Pencil
Caitlin Hedges, Art IV, “Transcendentalism”
Celia Rosa’s AP Art Portfolio
Mrs. Ray, Mrs. Leander and Mrs. Caprio’s 1st graders’ colorful paintings.
Treasure Smith’s Art IV watercolor, “Cats”
Caitlin Hedges, Independent Study Photography
Shawn Ward, Art IV Monochromatic Self-Portrait, Acrylic on Canvas was on display at the Rockland Public Schools Arts Festival
“It’s all in a Name” by Mrs. Caliri and Mrs. Jagiela’s Grade 5 students.
Grade 2 Jefferson School: Ms. Marzalek and Mrs. Sheridan’s classes’ hand on projects made them stars!
Grade 4
Grade 8 textiles
PhotoVoice puts a camera in participants hands and gives them the opportunity to share their voices on issues important to them. This exhibit was set up by the guidance department
2nd grader Gus interacts with NAO the robot at the Arts Festival. Veritas photo.
Family and Consumer Science projects. Veritas photo
On display at the Arts Festival were paintings by members of the Pathways class and the PhotoVoice exhibit. Veritas Photo
Left to right: Lauren Zaremba, Ryan Hooper, Luana Lima and Jillian Schofield at the Arts Festival on Tues. April 14. Veritas Photo
Seniors Compete At Spellman Oratorical
Seniors await judges’ decision after their speeches at the Spellman Oratorical Contest on Tuesday, April 12. Front row l to r: Mark Ewell, Haley Macray, Meghan Foster, Leah DeCecco and Ashley Pezzella. Back l to r: Brad Gasdia, Celia Rosa and Bella Rindone. Veritas Photo.
Adiza Alasa, Veritas Staff
The annual Spellman Oratorical Contest occurred on Tuesday, April 12 at Rockland High School. This contest was created in memory of the late Ellen Conway Spellman of Whitman.
This year’s topic was “Nonconformity, Society, and the Human Condition” as seen in art or literature. The essays written by all seniors were narrowed down by AP English teacher, Mr. Neal, to the top eight contestants. The winners were chosen by three impartial judges, Laura Whittaker, Kevin Whitaker, and Bill Cunningham. Contestants were judged based on content, delivery, diction, and poise.
Ashley Pezzella was awarded first place at the Spellman Oratorical Contest on Tuesday night. WRPS photo.
Ashley Pezzella won first place with a prize of $1200 in college scholarship money. Mark Ewell took second place and the $1000 scholarship. Leah DeCecco came in third place and received a $700 scholarship. In fourth place was Bella Rindone who received a $500 scholarship. Brad Gasdia came in fifth place and received a $300 scholarship. Meghan Foster, Haley Macray and Celia Rosa tied for 6th place and each received $100 scholarships.
Students Perform at SEMSBA
Tahmya Cappra, Veritas Staff
Rockland High School students, Leah DeCecco, Lauren Illes, Rebekah Panaro, Rebeca Portela, and Sean Vo represented Rockland High School at the Southeastern Massachusetts Bandmasters Association (SEMSBA) Festival held on Friday, April 8 and Saturday, April 9 at Milton High School.
The festival is organized into four groups that rehearsed together on Friday and then took part in concerts on Saturday that were open to the public.
Left to right: Sean Vo, Rebekah Panaro, Leah DeCecco, Lauren Illes, and Rebeca Portela represented RHS at SEMSBA on April 8 and 9. photo by Tahmya Cappra Veritas Staff
SEMSBA is a festival that students must audition for.
RHS senior Leah DeCecco talked about her experience in this festival and if she would recommend it to her fellow music peers.
DeCecco said that the festival went “excellent” for her. She also said that it was her “last festival of high school,” and that “it was an incredibly emotional and wonderful experience.” She said that she “will truly never forget it,” and that she would “10 out of 10” recommend SEMSBA to fellow music peers.
Girls Lacrosse Team Remains Positive
Jaymie Atkins, Veritas Asst. Managing Editor
The girls lacrosse team went to varsity status this year for the first time, after competing as a sub-varsity team the last two years.
Since they will be underdogs against more established teams, it is not a surprise that they have lost their first three games to Norton, Cohasset and Pembroke.
Senior goalie Caitlin Yannizzi at practice before the first game. Veritas photo
Senior captain Caitlin Yannizzi provided insight on these losses.
“Losing games, I believe, pushes us to work harder to prove not only to ourselves but each other, and most especially our coach that we do have the skills to win, and we want to win.”
Yannizzi admits the first game against Norton was discouraging, but says the Cohasset game was uplifting.
“We may have lost, but we pushed through and gave it our all, and I was very proud of myself and the team.”
Coach Lauren Rizzotti has some input on these losses as well.
“Unfortunately we started out with some of our best competitors.They [the girls on the team] need to have it in their head to just play their absolute best. We are a newer team against teams who have been playing for years. We are not always going to get the result we want, but I have not been disappointed in what I am seeing on the field.”
Juniors Bridget Reardon and Hannah Millen are keeping their attitudes positive. Veritas staff photo
Coach Rizzotti also said that things have been looking up for the girls considering the rocky start. “The girls need to realize this is now a varsity team; everything needs to be different: dedication, attitude, versatility on the field. The group of girls are a fantastic group and we are finally feeling like a team again.”
The girls were to face last year’s state champions, Norwell, today at home with a start time of 4 o’clock, but the game has been postponed due to lack of officials according to the Norwell Athletic Department.
Atkins Voted New Student Council President
RHS SGC’s Big 5 pose together at the April SGC meeting. From left to right: Vice President Caitlin Yannizzi, Publicity Coordinator Adam Royle, President Haley Macray, Treasurer Ryan Sugrue, and Secretary/President-Elect Noelle Atkins
Veritas Staff
On Tuesday, April 5, the Rockland High School Student Government Council elected its president for the 2016-2017 school year. Current RHS junior, Noelle Atkins was selected for the position by her fellow council members.
Atkins, presently secretary of RHS SGC and current RHS SGC Publicity Coordinator Adam Royle were both nominated for the position of council president.
“Noelle and Adam are incredible individuals. I am so very proud of all that they have accomplished this year. Seeing them grow and become more mature and experienced leaders over the course of the time that I have known them has been a wonderful experience.” says current RHS SGC President Haley Macray, “Noelle and Adam will be amazing resources for this council next year and I know that they will accomplish so many things. They were both extremely qualified candidates for this position and they will make RHS very proud as they enter their senior year.”
Atkins will assume the position of council president on May 4, at the annual RHS SGC Awards Banquet when Macray passes her the RHS SGC gavel. The remaining council officer positions will be determined at the first RHS SGC meeting of the 2016-2017 school year in June.
Spellman Oratorical Contest and Arts Festival Coming Up This Week
Danielle Hill (Class of 2015) was the winner of the Spellman Oratorical Contest last year.
The annual Spellman Oratorical Contest will be held on Tuesday night at 7 p.m. in the RHS/RMS Lecture Hall. Eight seniors will be competing for $4,000 in scholarship money. The seniors will present original speeches commenting on this year’s topic: “Nonconformity, Society and the Human Condition.”
In order to participate in the contest, RHS seniors submit a written essay on the specified topic and the top eight are then chosen to compete in the oratorical portion of the contest. Judging will be based on delivery, content, diction, and poise.
The contest is open to the public and admission is free.
Celia Rosa with her award winning still life on display at the Globe Show. Art work from all the schools will be on display at the RPS Arts Festival on Thursday, April 14 from 6 to 9 p.m.
The Spellman Oratorical is traditionally held during the same week as the Rockland Public Schools’ annual Arts Festival. The Arts Festival is on Thursday, April 14 this year in the high school gymnasium. The gym will be open from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and artwork from all grade levels in the Rockland Public Schools will be on display.
Also, the Consumer Science, Tech Ed and Robotics classes will have their creations on display. Photos from last year’s Arts Festival can be seen here.
Special Veritas Broadcast: Interview with New Principal of RHS
Students in the journalism class have produced a special report to introduce students and the community to the incoming principal at RHS, John Harrison, who will be taking over for Dr. Cron on July 1.
Adiza Alasa conducted the interview with questions suggested by students in the journalism class. Theodora Panagiotidis directed the broadcast with Hannah Murphy, Michelle Downey and Jill Donahue on camera. Patrick Murphy, Kaylee Ellis, and Joe Taft also worked in the control room.
For more information read Veritas reporter, Francisco Oliveira’s article on Mr. Harrison in our News/Feature tab.
College Bound Student-Athlete Night
The Athletic Department and the Guidance Department are teaming up to present a look at the myths and realities behind college athletics, scholarships and recruitments. All student-athletes and their parents are invited to this information session in the lecture hall at 6:00 pm. See or call Mr. Graziano for details.
Music Department Entertains With Broadway Tunes
Chorus introduces selections from Rent with Seasons of Love
The Rockland High School Music Department held their annual Broadway Night on Friday, April 1 in the high school auditorium. The band and chorus performed excerpts from two Broadway shows: Into the Woods and Rent. High energy and talented singers provided a special musical event featuring cabaret style entertainment by the full chorus along with selected solos and duets.
Leah DeCecco, left and Sophie McLellan performing “Take Me or Leave Me” from Rent. Veritas Photo
Rockland High Chorus members dance to the finale from Rent. Kalee Lucier-Hill, Rebeca Portela, Stephanie Blaney, Sara Kane
Sophie McLellan sings”on the Steps of the Palace” from Into the Woods
Ryan Struzziery and Kalee Lucier-Hill sing “I Should Tell You” from Rent
The chorus sings “Seasons of Love” from Rent. Left to right: Jailene Escalera, Erika Wiley, Sophie McLellan and Paige Boggs.
Sean Vo sings”Your Eyes” from Rent
Stephanie Blaney sings “Last Midnight” from Into the Woods
Chorus “Seasons of Love.”
Jurnee Dunn sings “Out Tonight” from Rent.
Caitie McArthur and Rebeca Portella
Leah DeCecco sings “Take Me or Leave Me” from Rent. Veritas photo
Lauren Illes sings “I Know Things Now” from Into the Woods.
The band, including director John Piazza takes its bows.
Veritas April Print Edition Available
Our latest print issue features the following stories. They are now on-line as well.
Taunts, chants and cheers: Are they offensive or part of the game?
Two Veritas reporters give their opinions about the recent controversy over the taunting at a local high school tournament game between Newton North and Catholic Memorial. The fans were barred from attending the following game because of the racist taunts. Website link to Zach Pransky and Greg Makarski’s pro/con opinion stories are now available.
RHS fans at a tournament game photo Rockland High Sports
Rockland blasts off into leadership at MASC
Hannah Murphy, Hayley Macray, Abby Condon and Jill Donahue recount the events of Student Government’s trip to MASC’s spring conference including Caitlin Yannizzi’s Polar Plunge fundraising efforts. Here is the website link: Rockland Blast Off Into MASC Spring Conference
Members of RHS SGC before the annual MASC Polar Plunge
Spring teams look to compete for titles
Adiza Alasa and Joe Taft talked to the spring coaches and athletes to get their take on how baseball, softball, tennis, track and lacrosse teams will fare this season. Go Dogs! Click on reporters’ names to link to their stories.
Matt O’Brien against Plymouth North last year photo by Rockland High School
RHS grad helps battle poverty in Guatemala
Reporter Mike Ivanoskos continues his series on RHS graduates: Where Are They Now? In this story, Mike interviews Julia Rayberg, Class of 2011, who has started her own non-profit company called Worthy Village. Read this story here.
Julia with children in village where her team of volunteers teach about hygiene. photo courtesy of Julia Rayberg.
Don’t Miss Out on this issue; it will be our best yet and may even sell out!!!
Music Department To Host Broadway Night On Friday, April 1
Cameron Estrella and Genesis Rojas in “Phantom of the Opera” last year.
The Music Department’s annual Broadway Night will be held next Friday night (April 1) at 7 pm in the high school auditorium.
The chorus and band students will be playing and singing excerpts from Rent and Into the Woods.
Last year the Music Department wowed the crowd with selections from South Pacific and Phantom of the Opera. Traditionally the band opens up the show and then members of the chorus act, sing and dance to selections of their choosing.
Don’t miss it! The cost is $5.
Link to a review of last year’s show with photo gallery!
One Rockland, Monday 6-9 pm
One Rockland is holding its third fundraiser of the year Monday night from 6-9 pm at Players. All proceeds of these fundraisers go to the sports teams and clubs and organizations at Rockland High School. There will be raffles again, and a great buffet. All are invited to come for a short time or to stay all night!
