NTFH: December 9, 2019
- From the Head of School
- Parents' Association
- All School
- Upper School
- Middle School
- Lower School
- Fine Arts
- Athletics
- Chapel Corner
- Healthy at the Hall
From the Head of School
From the Head of School
Dear Saint Mary's Hall Community,
Something Special is Happening Here
As head of school, it is my pleasure and responsibility to support all our athletic programs in all three divisions, but I want to draw your attention to our varsity men’s basketball team. Statistically and by reputation, one can argue that this year’s team is one of the best in our school’s history. We are currently ranked #8 in the state for 6A/SPC schools by the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches. We also are ranked #8 by the San Antonio Express News. The Express News rankings are regardless of school type, public or private, or school size. The team placed 2nd in the San Antonio Christian School (SACS) Adidas Tip Off Classic earlier this season, notching an impressive win over SACS. As I write this, our team’s record is 10-3, and they are scoring in bunches, eclipsing the 100-point mark in three games already this season. We have three players who have already eclipsed the 1,000-point mark in their careers. A fourth player will pass the 1,000-point mark soon, and another player scored his 2,000 career point and may eventually break the all-time school scoring record of 2,041! Athletic Director Barry Chamberlin, who is also the head varsity men’s basketball coach, says of our Barons hoops team, “This is a special group of young men. They are extremely talented basketball players, but more importantly they are great people and great teammates. They are unselfish, work hard, and buy into what we ask them to do. They are young men of integrity and carry themselves with class in everything they do. I am blessed to get to coach such a special group of individuals.”
I would like to invite you to witness the excellence of this team firsthand tomorrow night at 7:30pm at Saint Mary’s Hall in the Booke Gym. I am confident that like me, you’ll enjoy the pace and energy around our program. This is “do not miss” entertainment!
Some other important athletic updates of note:
Next year the Upper School will enter into our first season of Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) 6-man football. The 6-man program in our Middle School has been both popular and highly successful, and we look forward to football returning to our Upper School, bringing back Friday Night Lights!
Our Upper School athletes in all other sports compete in TAPPS, and re-districting for the next two years was just announced. Our Upper School sports teams, effective next school year, are realigned into competitive districts that bring back local rivals like TMI into our district. Our district will include multiple teams from the San Antonio and Austin areas:
- Brentwood Christian – Austin
- Geneva School of Boerne
- Hyde Park – Austin
- John Paul II –Corpus Christi (Softball Only)
- Providence College Prep – San Antonio
- Regents School of Austin
- St Anthony Catholic School – San Antonio
- St Michael’s Catholic Academy – Austin
- TMI- The Episcopal School of Texas – San Antonio
Finally, I have a special coaching recognition: long-time Head Varsity Women’s Soccer Coach and Upper School Science Teacher Brian Kaestner has just surpassed 1,000 career games coached and is currently sitting at 548 wins! I actually had the privilege (and challenge!) of coaching against Coach Kaestner in the late ’90s and early 2000s. Congratulations, Coach Kaestner!
Much love always,
Jonathan Eades
Head of School
Parents' Association
Parents' Association
The Holiday Fund Elves Will Be at Morning Carpool Wednesday, December 11
Help us thank our beloved faculty and staff with a holiday gift. Cash or check payments will be accepted at Lower, Middle, and Upper School Circles during morning carpool on Wednesday, December 11.
Want to donate with a credit or debit card? No problem! Our elves at carpool will show you how on your phone or other mobile device.
What is The Holiday Fund?
A vehicle for Saint Mary’s Hall families to show appreciation for each faculty and staff member through voluntary monetary contributions toward a “holiday gift” delivered in the form of Frost Bank Visa gift cards.
Who Benefits From The Holiday Fund?
With more than 300 employees at Saint Mary’s Hall — teachers, administrators, assistants, coaches, dining staff, housekeeping staff, security officers, and maintenance workers — each of these employees touches the lives of our children in some way each day. The Holiday Fund offers a way to show your appreciation and an alternative to individual holiday gift giving.
How Can I Give to The Holiday Fund?
- Cash or Check. Deliver your gift to any division office, with checks made payable to Saint Mary’s Hall and the notation referencing The Holiday Fund.
- Debit or Credit Card. Online contributions may be made by clicking the "Give a Gift" button.
- Holiday Fund Drive-Thru. On the morning of December 11 contributions will be collected in Lower, Middle, and Upper School carpools. Complimentary coffee and treats will be served by The Holiday Fund Elves!
Thank you in advance for your support of The Holiday Fund.
Best Regards,
Joanne Lawton
The Holiday Fund Chair
gplct@hotmail.com
Karla Phillips
The Holiday Fund Co-Chair
karlaphillips@yahoo.com
All School
All School
Meningitis Information for Students and Parents
In the 86th Legislature, HB 3884 required Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to create procedures for school districts to provide information relating to bacterial meningitis to students and parents.
This link will take you to the Texas Department of State Health Services. In addition, please view this information document about Bacterial Meningitis.
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends MCV4 for children at age 11 - 12 years, with a booster dose at 16 - 18 years. In Texas, one dose of MCV4 given at or after age 11 years is required for children in 7th - 12th grades. One dose of MCV4 received in the previous five years is required in Texas for those under the age of 22 years and enrolling in college. Teens and young adults (16 - 23 years of age) may be vaccinated with MenB. This vaccine is not required for school or college enrollment in Texas (not required but good protection for your child who will be heading off to college).
H-E-B Offering Flu and Second Shingles Shots on Campus
H-E-B is offering flu vaccinations for those who missed the first go around. They will also be administering the second shingles shot for those who got their first shot. H-E-B will be on campus on Thursday, December 12 from 3:30pm – 5pm in the Coates-Seeligson Theater/Chapel - East Gallery for SMH Community - students, faculty, and staff (and their families).
On-Campus Flu Clinics:
Cost: Cash and checks accepted (payable to H-E-B)
- $39 Flu (Quadrivalent)
- $79 Flu (HD - 65 yrs and older)
- Flu Mist - not available
No cost with Tricare, BCBS Prescription, BCBS Medical, Aetna Prescription, Aetna Medical, Humana Prescription, United Healthcare Medical, Cigna Medical, Medicare B, and Express Scripts Prescription.
Age requirements:
- Montessori ages 2 – 4 are referred to their Primary Care Provider
- Students ages 5 and 6 require a prescription from their doctor
- Students ages 7-12 must be accompanied by an adult - SMH faculty will not be available to escort students
- Students 13 years of age and older do not need an escort but do require a signed consent (both sides MUST be completed) AND payment or insurance information
For more info, contact School Nurse Melissa Baumholtz at (210) 483-9299 or mbaumholtz@smhall.org
Upper School
Upper School
Gingerbread House Building in Advisory
While most Advisories chose to use their time to celebrate the impending holiday break in their own fashion, others opted to build and decorate gingerbread houses on December 4.
Students enjoyed the creative break from schoolwork and the camaraderie of being together doing something constructive (pun intended).
Faculty and Staff Chili Cook-Off
Upper School Science Teacher Dr. Jamie Holbrook organized a faculty and staff Chili Cook-Off that took place December 4. Entrants could choose traditional (which even allowed beans, much to the chagrin of many in our community) or non-traditional, and votes from 44 judges were counted for the favorite of each group.
Congratulations to:
- 1st place Traditional – Head of Upper School Brent Spicer - Chili #5
- 2nd place Traditional – Upper School Chemistry Teacher Justina Vidal - Chili #1
- 1st place Non-traditional – Enrichment Program Coordinator and Upper School Tennis Coach Lisa Westergard - Chili #7
- 2nd place Non-traditional – Form 7 Science Teacher Patti Nicoll - Chili #9
Head of School Teaches English Class
A few days before Thanksgiving Break, Head of School Jonathan Eades was invited to teach Upper School English Teacher Dr. Teri Marshall’s AP English Language classes on civil disobedience through the lens of Vietnam. Mr. Eades remarked, “They are studying Thoreau and Martin Luther King’s landmark works on civil disobedience. Dr. Marshall and I have partnered in this way for eight years, and I was very touched that she presented me with a book on Thoreau, another on Vietnam, and two CDs of music from the Vietnam era.”
SMH Robotics Teams Participate in First FTC Meet
On November 16, Robotics Coach and Robotics/Computer Science/STEM Teacher Dr. Hong Zhou reported that two SMH Robotics teams participated in the first FTC league meet of this season. Dr. Zhou said, “Our team members represented SMH very well, especially during one match when our two teams were randomly assigned as partners. Both robots ran their autonomous programs smoothly (captured in this video). Although the two teams did not have much time to practice together, they did communicate strategies very clearly, and the implementation was the only successfully coordinated autonomous team play in this event. The teams demonstrated effective teamwork strategies with other partners as well. This video captured the Middle School team coordinating with the Johnson High School team in the driver-controlled part of the game.”
- Proud team members of Middle School team FTC13670 are Form 8 students Will Carter, Foster Hixon, Christian Moreno, and Jackson Schuleman.
- Proud team members of Upper School team FTC8295 are Leo Cheong (Form 9), Alejandro Delgado (Form 10), Joy Ding (Form 12), and Felicia Early (Form 12).
The Week Ahead
For a look at everything that's happening in the Upper School this week (including college visits to SMH, varsity and JV games, important assemblies, meetings, and upcoming birthdays), please read The Week Ahead.
World Languages and Cultures Week a Success
The week before Thanksgiving break, the Upper School celebrated its second annual World Languages and Cultures Week! With flags hanging in the hallway to represent different languages and cultures around the world and beautiful Latin posters hung as well, the week had both a physical presence and a fun spirit to it. Students and faculty alike enjoyed cultural activities during the week in and out of the classroom as well as special food presentations in the cafeteria.
Here are our highlights from the week:
- Prentice Huntington Miller & Reid Huntington Miller Endowed Chair in World Languages and Cultures Laura Renard kicked off the week by presenting on her trip to Japan this past summer for her Peggy Pitman Mays Fund for Teacher Excellence and the lessons she learned from that experience. Additionally, for Tuesday’s Assembly, Upper School World Languages Teacher Denise Díaz put together a video on “What is your favorite word?” across many languages that highlighted a number of SMH students and teachers!
- In the classroom, students engaged more in cultural learning. To mention a few, students spent time trying to identify flags, enjoying cápsulas culturales in Spanish III, making posters for the hallway illustrating quotations, derivatives or mythology in Latin I and II, participating in a dance class with Registration Coordinator and Middle/Upper School Modern Dance Teacher Stephany Rayburn in Spanish I and V, making movies of French or Francophone recipes at home in French II, learning about Quebec history and energy tips in French III and AP French, and trying different Mexican candies in AP Spanish.
- SAGE Dining Services® offered a wonderful French meal on Tuesday, Mexican cuisine on Wednesday, and then helped to wrap the week with a special food presentation on Thursday that paid homage to Mediterranean cuisine and the Roman diet. Thank you to Eduardo de Leon and his team for supporting the World Languages and Cultures program!
- Upper School World Languages Teacher Kristen Villalvazo’s French I class celebrated up World Languages and Cultures Week by visiting Lower School Morning Moments where they introduced themselves, asked a few French culture questions, and sang “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes” in French. They had a wonderful time with younger Barons and got to share their French learning as well!
- Finally, the Spanish Club offered a fun lotería activity on Friday to celebrate the week. Students enjoyed the game during the long lunch and even Assistant Head of Upper School Jeff Hebert jumped in to participate.
H-E-B President and Chief Operating Officer Speaks to Students (by senior Angelo Huff)
On November 21, SMH parent Craig Boyan (Grace, Form 12; Hailey, Class of 2014; and John, Class of 2013) spoke to Upper School Math Teacher Jose Molina’s Principles of Finance and Investing classes about his leadership role as the president and chief operating officer of H-E-B. While his company is continuing to establish its place as a major grocery store nationwide, being the 12th largest private company in the United States, he discussed the various measures taken to get to where they are including understanding and managing the finances necessary to run a business, establishing personal relationships with manufacturers and customers, and implementing proper marketing tactics. Mr. Boyan highlighted the importance of targeting as many different crowds as possible and adapting to their wants and needs, which allows for further success in any financial endeavor. He went on to share details on cost structures and a few aspects of the mathematical economics necessary to keep the business running, providing insightful advice for any entrepreneurial and/or managerial mind. It was an honor to hear from Mr. Boyan as he shared his experience of running H-E-B.
Faculty Spotlight
This week we feature Paul Gage (AP U.S. History) and Patrick Cunningham (Technical Director/Theater Manager).
Paul Gage (Upper School History)
Upper School Social Studies Teacher Paul Gage hails from Lafayette, New York just outside of Syracuse. He’s lived in San Antonio so long it feels like home, but the place where he lived the longest was South Limburg in the Netherlands (for 26 years). He attended Syracuse University for both undergraduate and graduate school, completing a five-year program to achieve a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Social Studies. Mr. Gage began substitute teaching at SMH in 2003, but then became a full-time teacher in 2005. His best SMH memory so far is being asked to be a recommender and mentor for Anthony Kayruz (Class of 2013), who went on to be a Presidential Scholar. “It was a once in a lifetime opportunity,” he said. When asked what people outside of the History Department might not know about him, Mr. Gage replied: “My claim to fame is having taught current SMH 2D Art Teacher Logan Blanco at the NATO school in the Netherlands because, “It is very rewarding for me to see his passions for, and his contributions to, his students and to SMH.” Additionally, we can all enjoy knowing that Mr. Gage feels he’s walked so much that he’s been around the world twice. “I walk 3 - 4 miles every day, 365 days a year.” I actually think he did the math!
Paul is an avid LA Dodgers fan along with all teams Syracuse. If he could have another career (he seriously struggled with this because he feels teaching, especially at SMH, has been a dream) he would do “something in foreign service or international relations.” One thing that Paul Gage never wants to do again is to live in cold weather. You’ve definitely found a home and the right place for you in South Texas, Paul. Welcome home. Thanks for all of your service to students and the community. After your retirement from teaching in May, you must know how much you’ll be missed. SMH loves you, Saint Paul!
Patrick Cunningham (Upper School Theater)
Technical Director/Theater Manager/Scenic Designer/Upper School Faculty Member Patrick Cunningham was born in Laredo, Texas but feels like San Antonio is his home since he’s lived here for 60 years. He attended Our Lady of the Lake University for his Bachelor of Arts in Art with a minor in English. Patrick joined SMH in 1995 and says his best SMH memory so far is, “Working with the Lower School shows. It’s such a direct process and the sets are a lot of fun to construct. You get to play a little more.” What people outside of the Fine Arts Department might not know about Patrick is that he does have a sense of humor despite his face always looking so serious. “I just go into fix it mode whenever anyone shares a challenge or problem with me, so I end up looking grumpy all the time.”
Patrick shared that his favorite SAGE Dining Services® meal is London Broil (no hesitation there) and that Kandinsky is his favorite painter. “He’s also a good print maker.” He’s an avid Cowboys and Spurs fan, and if he could travel anywhere without concern for time or expense, he’d take a walking tour of Ireland, but only after he toured, “all of Europe—the whole thing—from the tip of Italy all the way to England.” Here’s hoping you can realize that dream, Patrick … but not before you make sure the Children’s Choir and Orff Ensemble concerts go off without a hitch on Friday.
Middle School
Middle School
Form 7 Science Conducts Experiments
Form 7 students had fun acting out some concepts related to cell processes, including, as shown here, an experiment by Jan van Helmont that proved that the increase in mass in a growing plant, does not come from soil.
Semester Exam Week Information
The Middle School faculty have been working with the department chairs to review the semester exam procedure and make some important changes to the process. First, the Middle School has decided to wait to start semester exams until Form 7, instead of Form 6, as it is developmentally more appropriate. Instead, Form 6 students will have one final test or project (regular 45-minunte assessment) in each of their core subjects – Math, English, Science, and Social Studies during the last week of the semester. Form 6 students do not have a World Language final assessment. Next, SMH has also reduced the time on the Form 8 exams to 90 minutes from two hours, so that students’ first two-hour exams will be in Form 9 now. This will allow Form 7 and Form 8 students to take their exams on the same schedule in the Napier Gym.
This year, students enrolled in French, Latin, and Spanish Levels IA and IB, and ASLC II & III completed their World Languages Day projects as a major Quarter 2 assessment and will not have a semester exam in December; however, they will take a 90-minute Spring Semester Exam in May. Students enrolled in Upper School language classes will receive separate instructions regarding the time and location of their Semester I Upper School exam from Prentice Huntington Miller & Reid Huntington Miller Endowed Chair in World Languages and Cultures Laura Renard.
Geo Bee Preliminary Results
Nearly 40 students participated in the preliminary round of the National Geographic Bee (Geo Bee), run by the Middle School Social Studies Department faculty: Anne Allbritton, Brian Fleming, and Joseph Karpman. After seven rounds of questions and several rounds of tiebreaker questions, a total of 10 students booked their ticket to the final round of the Bee at Saint Mary’s Hall, which will take place on Thursday, January 16. The winner of that competition will move on to the regional round. Congratulations to the following 10 finalists and to all students who participated in the Geo Bee this year!
- Sohan Bhakta (Form 6)
- Will Carter (Form 8)
- Nandini Cheruku (Form 8)
- Dillon Daskevich (Form 6)
- Sofija Dudhia (Form 8)
- Baylor Hinson (Form 6)
- Sani Karkar (Form 8)
- William Ogle (Form 7)
- Adrian Sorensen (Form 6)
- Cici Yang (Form 8)
Form 8 Students Take in Fall Scenery at Lost Maples
On November 20, Form 8 students and advisors took an outdoor education trip to Lost Maples State Natural Area near Vanderpool, Texas. This area is known for its fall foliage, since there are an unusually large variety of trees present. After arriving, students divided into two groups for hiking, with each group led by a naturalist guide. One guide shared information about the plant life in the region, while the other guide pointed out the interesting geology. The two groups met during the hike and exchanged guides. After the hike, they ate a picnic lunch on the grounds and then returned to San Antonio. It was a beautiful and educational outdoor experience for all!
Lower School
Lower School
Baron Sportsmanship
Once a month, two students from each Form level (Forms 1 – 5) are recognized by their coaches during Morning Moments.
These students are honored for their excellence during PE classes. Coaches select students with good attitudes who participate, cooperate, play fair, and show overall good sportsmanship.
Congratulations to the November recipients:
- Form 1: Annie Schwab and Preston Rouse
- Form 2: Liliana Behrend and Sergio Montemayor
- Form 3: Danielle Faustin and Jack Rouse
- Form 4: Pearl Moore and Christian Albrecht
- Form 5: Jane Griffith and Owen Colwell
Andrew and Evan MC Morning Moments
Parent support of last year’s Passport 2019: Ignite! continues to provide fun opportunities for students this year. Brothers Andrew (Form 4) and Evan (Form 1) Bean were the Master of Ceremonies for Morning Moments for the week before Thanksgiving. Thank you to their parents, Gregg and Nancy Bean, for this purchase after having the winning bid at Passport 2017. Parental support of Saint Mary’s Hall makes all the difference.
Head of Lower School Khristi Bates said, “I am very proud of Andrew and Evan. They were very poised and easily commanded a room of students and teachers. They did an excellent job all week!”
Form 3 Students Skype to Learn More About Project Aware
On December 2, Form 3 Language Arts Teacher Jane Viccellio’s classes Skyped with Jack Fishman from Project Aware, an ocean rescue organization based in California. The students wrote Mr. Fishman letters asking questions about ocean conservation and animal rescue. Each class video chatted for more than 25 minutes getting all of those questions answered. Mr. Fishman even wore a shark costume to celebrate! From blob fish to whaler shark, Form 3 students learned what they can do to protect the future of marine animals.
Young Barons in Community
Young Barons in Community (YBIC) continued to support the San Antonio community with two projects this past month. Project Linus and a coat drive for Serna Elementary School. Thank you to all students, parents and faculty who were part of these services. You make a difference!
Stay tuned for more YBIC projects in 2020!
Be kind
Be proud
Be YBIC!
SMH Spirit Day
Saint Mary’s Hall students will have an Out-of-Uniform Day on Tuesday, December 10, to show their SMH spirit! Students may wear any SMH shirt and/or sweatshirt, pants of their choice, and athletic shoes.
Support your Saint Mary’s Hall Barons and enjoy an evening on campus attending these events:
- Women’s varsity basketball vs. Holy Cross High School in Booke Gym - 4:30pm
- Women's varsity soccer vs. St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School on Lewis Field - 5pm
- Men’s Freshmen Basketball vs. Alamo Heights High School in Napier Gym- 6pm
- Men’s JV basketball vs. Alamo Heights High School in Booke Gym – 6pm
- Men's varsity soccer vs. St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School on Lewis Field - 7pm
- Men's varsity basketball vs. Alamo Heights High School in Booke Gym - 7:30pm
The Spirit Store has some spirit gear for sale (pom poms, megaphones, face art), so stop by there before Tuesday night. Cheesy Janes will be onsite to fuel the fans, too!
Toys for Tots Toy Collection
The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots Program collects new, unwrapped toys each year and distributes the toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children throughout the local community. SMH hopes you will participate in this Lower School Community Service Project by donating an unwrapped toy or game for a child who is your child’s age (If a toy requires batteries, please include them). The Baron Ambassadors will be at Montessori and Kindergarten and Forms 1 - 5 carpools through tomorrow, December 10, to receive your contributions.
Form 3 Math in The Collaboratory
Form 3 Math Teacher Rondelle Webb brought all three of her math classes to the Collaboratory for some mathematical fun! Students rotated through four stations. They logged into Code.org to work on their coding skills in preparation for the upcoming Hour of Code. They solved Thanksgiving Multiplication and Division Puzzles and posted them to Seesaw with explanations of how they solved their problems. They practiced math skills, like making change, with Osmo Pizza or Osmo Numbers. In the fourth station, Creation Choice, they had to flex their creativity muscles. They had to choose how to represent a multiplication or division problems using Legos, IO blocks, the light table, or PowerClix magnets with the whiteboard. As they finished each rotation, they completed a reflection on how it went and how much they liked it. Math is awesome!
News from the Lower School Library
The Lower School Winter Wonderland Book Fair was a huge success. Excited children entered the library door with eyes all aglow. Lower School Librarian and Instructional Technologist Linda Wells stated that the wonder in the children’s eyes when they saw the magical atmosphere created by the SMH moms brought such a sense of joy to her. One student remarked, “A winter wonderland filled with books, what could be better than that!”
Many, many thanks to the awesome Lower School moms who worked tirelessly to create an absolute delight for the children. The library staff is so thankful for the wonderful moms who volunteered their time to the book fair. Their help and time is always sincerely appreciated. Thanks to all parents and students who shopped and bought books. Proceeds support the wonderful book authors who visit every year.
Common Sense Media Article
When you are ready for some quality family time amid the busyness of the season, there is nothing better than curling up with a holiday movie. Here is an article by Common Sense Media, Best Holiday Movies for Kids, to give you some tips for great movies to share with your children during the holidays.
Fine Arts
Tobin Fine Arts School
Director's Corner
In October, the Visual and Media Arts faculty attended the Texas Arts Educator Association (TAEA) Conference.
Lower School Art Teacher Kellen Stanley, Middle School Art Teacher BJ Pyrc, Upper School Drawing & Painting Teacher Logan Blanco, Upper School Sculpture & Design Nate Cassie, Upper School Photography Teacher Kyle Petersen, and Upper School Cinema Teacher Will Underwood traveled to Houston to attend the conference, see art at galleries, the Menil Collection, and the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, and spend time together discussing educational philosophy and curriculum.
Saint Mary’s Hall’s Professional Development Program provides teachers the opportunity to foster creative thinking in teachers. These five art educators all returned to campus with new ideas to further improve and refine teaching strategies in their classrooms.
Join these teachers and the English faculty this week at the Art Studio & Creative Writing Coffee house on Wednesday, December 11 from 5:30pm - 7pm in the Hearth Room of the Marrs and Verna McLean Library. There you will see some of the excellent work of our most advanced art and photography students, as well as hear original writings by students from the Creative Writing class. Friends of the Fine Arts provides the reception.
We hope to see you there!
Artily yours,
Bethany Bohall
Wanda Wiley Atkinson Director of Fine Arts
Tobin Fine Arts School at Saint Mary’s Hall
bbohall@smhall.org
(210) 483-9253
All-School Holiday Party
On Friday, December 13, the SMH Chapter of the National Art Honor Society will offer craft making and holiday treats to students and families in the Lower School Circle after school. Come one, come all!
Children’s Choir and Orff Ensemble Winter Concert
The Saint Mary’s Hall Children’s Choir and Orff Ensemble perform two concerts on Friday, December 13 in the Coates-Seeligson Theater/Chapel. The 8:15am concert for Lower School students is free of charge. Tickets for the 6pm performance can be purchased at this link.
Region Band Results
On December 2, the students below were accepted into Region Band. Congratulations to these students and to their Band/Chamber Orchestra Teacher Trevor Docwra!
- Donovan Bowley (Form 10) - Trumpet 4, Concert Band
- Joy Ding (Form 12) - Flute 8, Concert Band
- Caleb Miller (Form 12) - French Horn 1, Symphonic Band (1st overall)
- Mehwish Rehman (Form 11) - Flute 5, Symphonic Band
Dance News
In November, Airrosti physical therapists (PT) visited Middle and Upper School Dance Classes. Middle and Upper School Modern Teacher Stephany Rayburn had this to say about the visit, “We started this last year and it has been a hit. Not only do the dancers get a chance to care for their bodies and practice agency in telling our PTs what specific issues they are having, but they also learn how to continue to care for their dancing bodies.” In addition, the Upper School Modern Dancers worked with Assistant Athletic Director Josh Baker, who taught the students about weight training.
Fine Arts Events
all day
Lower School Parent Dance Observation Week
all day
Lower School Parent Dance Observation Week
all day
Lower School Parent Dance Observation Week
Fine Arts Social Media
Check out the Fine Arts Instagram page. This account is a great way to get an up-close and personal look at the day-to-day excitement in these amazing, ever-buzzing programs. In addition, check out Saint Mary’s Hall main social media channels for more Fine Arts news
on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Athletics
Athletics
Bi-Annual TAPPS Realignment Announced
The Bi-Annual Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) realignment brought some good news for the future of athletics at Saint Mary’s Hall.
The Barons, previously aligned with the biggest private schools in the state, will be aligning down to a smaller, more competitive district for the next two years beginning in fall of 2020. The realignment will mark our district return with cross-town rivals TMI as well as the return of Friday night lights, with the introduction of 6-man football in the fall.
In accordance with TAPPS By-Laws, TAPPS uses the calculation of average attendance to develop the classifications, then divide the teams by geographical location. The new SMH alignment will put SMH in with San Antonio and Austin Schools.
Women’s teams will see Brentwood Christian, Boerne Geneva, Hyde Park, Providence, Regents, St. Anthony, St. Michael’s, and TMI, with softball adding Corpus Christi John Paul II.
“Having played a lot of these teams in non-district scheduled games helps give us a clear picture that we have the potential to be very successful,” said Head Varsity Basketball Coach and Athletic Director Barry Chamberlin.
Men’s teams will see a very similar line-up with the exception of the all-girls school, Providence, and Corpus Christi John Paul II in softball.
“The men’s side should fare just as favorably,” continued Chamberlin. “We move from a strong district to another strong district, but we are now playing schools with similar numbers. There is no reason not to expect athletics to have a very successful couple years.”
The Barons will be participating in the inaugural 6-man football season in the fall of 2020. This district alignment will bring some new schools to campus, as well as reunite SMH with some Middle School foes.
“While we took a short break from football, we are delighted to say we are bringing it back with a different look and renewed focus. Our district is extremely tough with a couple state championship programs in it. We will be tested right away, but we are up for the challenge,” concluded Coach Chamberlin.
TAPPS will be releasing the individual sports alignment in the next couple months.
Busy Break for Men’s Basketball
The Barons men’s varsity basketball team kicked off their Thanksgiving Break with the Adidas Tip Off Classic, hosted by San Antonio Christian Schools. The team put together a masterful pool play display going undefeated, and almost doubling their opponents score in every game.
After an 83 - 66 victory over a city-ranked Cole High School team in the semi-finals, the team set their sights on Johnson High School for the Championship game. In a hard fought battle, the team fell short, earning 2nd place in the tournament.
“The boys played incredibly hard and finished the weekend with a tough loss to Johnson High school. They gave it all they had, but just ran out of gas in the last game. A long tournament like this doesn’t play to our strengths,” said Head Coach and Athletic Director Barry Chamberlin. “It was a great weekend and I am very proud of our team.”
Men’s basketball welcomed Eagle Pass during the break, with a program-wide sweep. The varsity team was led by senior Avery Eugster’s 35 points. Eugster was supported by five other players who recorded double-digit performances.
The men’s varsity basketball team traveled to Austin to take on former SPC rival St. Stephen’s. The Barons came home with a hard fought 74 - 60 victory over a talented St. Stephen’s squad. Seniors Avery and Ben Eugster lead the way with 23 points apiece.
Down eight points early in the first quarter, the Barons were able to take the lead into halftime as the pace of play increased. Taking control of the game early in the 4th quarter, the Barons were able to hold on for the win.
Men’s Soccer Defeats SACS
In a hard fought, back-and-forth match, Barons men’s varsity soccer was able to pull out the last minute victory over San Antonio Christian School (SACS). With less than a minute left in the game, junior midfielder Taylor Wyatt scored, putting the Barons ahead 1-0. Junior goalkeeper David Flores had a masterful performance, holding the Lions scoreless through an onslaught of scoring opportunities throughout the match.
The Barons look to continue the momentum in their next match against St. Dominic Savio on Tuesday, December 10 to open district play.
Go to Games!
Attend the exciting SMH athletic games on Tuesday, December 10! Cheesy Janes will be on site! It's also an All-School Out-of-Uniform Day and a White Out for basketball games.
The games are as follows:
- 4:30pm Women’s varsity basketball vs. Holy Cross – Booke Gym
- 5pm Women’s varsity soccer vs. St. Dominic Savio - Lewis Field
- 6pm Men’s JV basketball vs. Alamo Heights - Booke Gym
- 6pm Men’s freshman basketball vs. Alamo Heights - Napier Gym
- 7pm Men’s varsity soccer vs. St. Dominic Savio - Lewis Field
- 7:30pm Men’s varsity basketball vs. Alamo Heights - Booke Gym
Middle School Spotlight
Middle School Score Updates
- Middle School B Boys’ basketball: SMH 16 - SA Academy 30
- Middle School B Boys’ basketball: SMH 40 - St. George 30
- Middle School A Boys’ basketball: SMH 22 - Geneva Boerne 53
- Middle School A Boys’ basketball: SMH 19 - SA Academy 64
- Middle School Boys’ soccer: SMH 0 - SACS 1
One Grand Coach
A major milestone was passed this season as Women’s Soccer Coach and Upper School Science Teacher Brian Kaestner coached his 1,000th game. Coach Kaestner is coaching in his 37th season here at SMH, while in his 41st season over all. He has amassed a career record of 548-350-109. Congratulations Coach Kaestner on a monumental accomplishment!
Annual Lacrosse Alignment Announced
Texas High School Lacrosse League (THSLL) recently announced their annual alignment for the upcoming season. SMH will remain in the San Antonio District, Division II, where they will face the familiar competition of Alamo Heights, Boerne, Central Catholic, Reagan, Smithson Valley, and TMI.
“The return to a familiar district will help us focus on what needs to improve and the direction we need to go as a program. We have a strong team returning this year. There will be big things to come from the program in the spring,” said Head Lacrosse Coach Chris Rodriguez.
Women’s Basketball Falls Short
Barons women's varsity basketball fell short against Lutheran, losing 48-52. With a one point lead in the last 30 seconds of the game, the Barons were not able to hold off the Mustangs final push. Senior Ana Lacau led the way with 27 points.
College Corner
Walker Continues to Shine at Air Force
AJ Walker (Class of 2016) currently of the Air Force men's basketball was named to the 2019 Junkanoo Jam All-Tournament Team.
Walker led the Air Force in scoring at the tournament, averaging 14.0 points per game. The guard also averaged 3.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists. Walker reached double figures in scoring all three games, including an 18-point night against Loyola Marymount.
Athletics Livestream Channel
Can't make it to the game? Tune in from home or while on the go via any device to watch SMH sports events live as they unfold. You can also relive the glory again and again, as all events are archived for future access. When you follow us on Livestream, you'll get updates anytime we add or update an athletic event.
It's easy! Join Livestream today:
1. Go to Livestream.com/smhathletics
2. Click the black "Follow" button on our page.
3. Create an account using your email or connect with Facebook.
4. Sit back and enjoy the game!
Follow @SMH_Barons on Twitter
Chapel Corner
Chapel Corner
Lower School Chapel
On December 2, Head of Lower School Khristi Bates shared the story of the Jewish tradition of Hanukkah with students (see the presentation slides). Form 3 student Talia Reinsmith did a beautiful job of describing how to play the dreidel game for her classmates.
Checking in with Reverend Gunnin
All-School Chaplain Rev. Dr. Cameron Gunnin sends his thanks for the many, many boxes of toiletries, detergent, books, stationary, etc., he and his team have received and processed thanks to the generosity of Saint Mary’s Hall. The care with which the bags for each service member were assembled revealed so much thought and love on the part of the people packing them.
Rev. Gunnin shared some great photos from Thanksgiving too, reminding one can give thanks for the blessings they receive regardless of location or situation.
For a better insight into where and how Reverend Gunnin is currently serving, please see this Air Force news article, Chapel Corps: Caring for Warfighters, shared with his permission.
Middle School and Upper School Chapels
On December 2, the school’s good friend Rabbi Ben Richards of the Agudas Achim Synagogue spoke to students about the tradition and significance of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah.
Rabbi Ben gave students the historical roots of Hannukah and the use of oil and the menorah over the eight days of celebration. He told students some wonderful stories about how small miracles, like the oil God provided to the temple, are happening every day around them and that they need to take notice and be grateful for them in their lives. He especially emphasized how we can get stuck looking down at what is bad and ugly and completely miss the little miracles God gives them every day. Students left thinking about what small miracles God has created for each one of them every day.
A Look Ahead
- December 9
- All divisions will learn about the Christian season of Advent. Father Ram Lopez, Rector of St. George’s Episcopal Church and School, will speak at Middle and Upper School Chapels.
- December 16
- In Lower School, students will hear a traditional Christmas story, scripture and song. In Middle and Upper School Chapels, Interim All-School Chaplain Susan (ChapSu) Douglas will lead a traditional Christian Lessons and Carols service. All students are welcome to attend. However, we will offer alternative Chapels on the subjects of hope and giving, led by faculty members, for those children whose parents request they be excused from regular Chapel.
Please contact ChapSu if you have any questions at sdouglas@smhall.org.
Healthy at the Hall
Healthy at the Hall
Sleep
Sleep is of the utmost importance regardless of the time in the semester or school year. Sleep is necessary for students to allow for maximal brain development, emotion regulation, energy restoration, as well as to increase one’s ability to focus and concentrate.
Misconceptions
Sometimes students think it is a better idea to study more and sleep less. Research consistently shows that students’ ability to retain information decreases as sleep decreases. When a person makes the choice to “pull an all-nighter” and/or overly caffeinate, they are actually limiting their short- and long-term educational efficacy.
Another common misconception is that people should “get a good night’s sleep” right before a major assignment. According to a recent MIT News article (linked below), getting a good night’s sleep the night before a test, “does not correlate at all with test performance. Instead, it’s the sleep you get during the days when learning is happening that matter most.”
In the same article, researchers determined that bedtimes matter. If a person goes “to bed after 2, your performance starts to go down even if you get the same seven hours,” as someone who goes to bed at midnight, for example.
Recommendations
In Yasmin Anwar’s article titled, How Deep Sleep Can Soothe Your Anxious Brain, she recommends the following helpful tips for a restorative night’s sleep:
- Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even after a bad night’s sleep or on the weekend.
- Keep your bedroom temperature cool; about 65 degrees Fahrenheit is optimal for cooling your body toward sleep. Wear socks if your feet are cold.
- An hour before bedtime, dim the lights and turn off all electronic screens and devices. Blackout curtains are helpful.
- If you can’t sleep, get out of bed and do something quiet and relaxing until the urge to sleep returns. Then, go back to bed.
- Avoid caffeine after 1pm and never go to bed tipsy. Alcohol is a sedative, and sedation is not sleep. It also blocks your REM dream sleep, an important part of the sleep cycle.
To learn more, please read these articles:
H-E-B Offering Flu and Second Shingles Shots on Campus
H-E-B is offering flu vaccinations for those who missed the first go around. They will also be administering the second shingles shot for those who got their first shot. H-E-B will be on campus on Thursday, December 12 from 3:30pm – 5pm in the Coates-Seeligson Theater/Chapel - East Gallery for SMH Community - students, faculty, and staff (and their families).
On-Campus Flu Clinics:
Cost: Cash and checks accepted (payable to H-E-B)
- $39 Flu (Quadrivalent)
- $79 Flu (HD - 65 yrs and older)
- Flu Mist - not available
No cost with Tricare, BCBS Prescription, BCBS Medical, Aetna Prescription, Aetna Medical, Humana Prescription, United Healthcare Medical, Cigna Medical, Medicare B, and Express Scripts Prescription.
Age requirements:
- Montessori ages 2 – 4 are referred to their Primary Care Provider
- Students ages 5 and 6 require a prescription from their doctor
- Students ages 7-12 must be accompanied by an adult - SMH faculty will not be available to escort students
- Students 13 years of age and older do not need an escort but do require a signed consent (both sides MUST be completed) AND payment or insurance information
For more info, contact School Nurse Melissa Baumholtz at (210) 483-9299 or mbaumholtz@smhall.org
Meningitis Information for Students and Parents
In the 86th Legislature, HB 3884 required Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to create procedures for school districts to provide information relating to bacterial meningitis to students and parents. This link will take you to the Texas Department of State Health Services. In addition, please view this information document about Bacterial Meningitis.
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends MCV4 for children at age 11-12 years, with a booster dose at 16-18 years. In Texas, one dose of MCV4 given at or after age 11 years is required for children in 7th - 12th grades. One dose of MCV4 received in the previous five years is required in Texas for those under the age of 22 years and enrolling in college. Teens and young adults (16-23 years of age) may be vaccinated with MenB. This vaccine is not required for school or college enrollment in Texas. (not required but good protection for your child who will be heading off to college.)