Today's Lenten Reflection

X Marks the Spot to Move Forward at Commencement

June 13, 2025

Article by Phoenix writer Grace Andino ’25:

Stepping onto an X-marked spot on the stage at the Commencement Exercises on June 1, a member of the Class of 2025 enters the long-imagined moment, squinting past the blinding stage lights, scanning the sea of faces, hoping to spot the familiar glow of friends and family. For all, it was a surreal moment: the culmination of 4 to 7 years of hard work encapsulated with a stride across the stage.

Each graduate had this moment of glory, encapsulating hard work at Kellenberg. The 505 of the Class of 2025; joined by their family, friends, and the Kellenberg community; gathered at Hofstra’s David Mack Sports Complex to celebrate a pinnacle moment in their lives: the stepping out from the Kellenberg community into the world.

Beginning the ceremony, the class valedictorians Christopher Rocco and Meghan Lazzarini gave their valedictory addresses. Christopher emphasized the importance of adopting humility as a tool for learning, for when one is humble, one can learn more about the world.

“No matter how much knowledge we may have,” he stated, “there is someone who knows something different.”

Following Chris, Meaghan honed in on the importance of embracing new experiences and how the Class of 2025 can use the security built at Kellenberg to embrace the unknown.
Principal Bro. Kenneth Hoagland, S.M., gave his address before each graduate walked the stage, calling for those present to take their belief in Christ into the world. He referenced Moses and St. Paul as he stressed the necessity of taking the faith students have built at Kellenberg and professing the Gospel when they leave high school.

Following all of the students walking across the stage, Bro. Kenneth announced the Most Outstanding Members of the Class of 2025 awards to Kevin Kelly and Grace Andino.

“It was such a humble honor to receive this award,” states Kevin,” I am forever grateful for the community Kellenberg has given me.”

The ceremony was both a reflective and emotional time for all present.For some graduates, their time at Kellenberg extends beyond the typical four-year period of high school.
Brooke Boccio, a member of the Latin school and an incoming freshman at the University of Kentucky, found the graduation ceremony to be a culmination of her seven years at Kellenberg.

 

“It was bittersweet to see the power of time. The boys and girls I’ve known since sixth grade have really transformed into both beautiful and mature young men and women. I truly would not be the person I am today without the impact of the Latin School and Kellenberg.”

As the Class of 2025 branches out into the world, let us do so in faith, walking out with humility, resilience, and courage.

 

 

Past Reflections

Firebirds Defeat Chaminade for NSCHAA Championship

With a walk-off hit in the eighth inning, the Kellenberg Varsity Baseball team clinched a 3-2 victory over Chaminade on May 27 to claim the NSCHSAA League Championship title in a ceremoniously grand fashion at Hofstra University. In the bottom of the extra frame, sophomore Andrew Noe struck the clutch game-winning hit with two outs and the bases loaded. The lefty-batting Noe stepped to the plate and delivered a walk-off hit to right field. Firebird baseball alum along with the student section ran to the Hofstra infield to celebrate with the boys. Mr. A’Hearn, who has been part of the

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June 4, 2025

Homeroom Connections Builds the Bridge of Interpersonal Relations

Article by Phoenix writer Brooke Oldenborg ’26: Homeroom Connections, a new addition to Kellenberg’s various assemblies, were introduced for the first time this school year. Designed to build community and encourage student bonding, these assemblies added 18 extra minutes to the usual homeroom period on select days throughout the year. In this short amount of time, students were able to relax and kick off their school day in a fun way with games and activities. The initiative aimed to give students more than just a place to start their day; it offered a space to connect, engage, and build relationships

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June 3, 2025

Activity Breakfast Recognizes Student Involvement

Article by Phoenix writer Brooke Oldenborg ’26: A breakfast to recognize students who have excelled in various activities and clubs was held on the morning of May 7. The millennium room event, hosted during homeroom, brought together a group of talented and dedicated students whose hard work and commitment stood out this school year. Many students gathered with their peers from various activities, engaging in conversation and great food before the commencement of the school day. Senior Victoria Confusione noted, “It was touching to be awarded for our hard work. This sense of support really is what makes the Kellenberg

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June 3, 2025

ETV Produces Pope Leo XIV Coverage

Article by Phoenix writer Natalie Lezcano ’26: On May 8, Kellenberg Memorial High School students and faculty buzzed with excitement as the papal conclave announced the name of the new pope, Pope Leo XIV. In the hour leading up to the announcement, a few faculty members were granted the opportunity to host a watch party, where they provided useful information on the papal candidates, and highlighted Pope Francis’ achievements and legacy. This live stream was broadcasted to all classes, which increased students’ enthusiasm and anticipation. Junior Lucy Carey shared, “I am very excited that we have a new pope! I

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June 3, 2025

Varsity Softball Plays for Something Greater

Article by Phoenix writer Victoria Vakser ’26: After a tiring three days of trimester exams, the Varsity Softball team put off their Easter Break for just a little longer to play in the Annual Benefit Game at Molloy University. The friendly non-conference competition was held to benefit the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (LICADD). April 15 was a cold, windy evening, but spirits were high because over $3,000 was raised as a result. Junior Addia Zimmer, a catcher, reflected, “We were playing— yes, for ourselves— but we were also helping something bigger than ourselves. So it really

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June 2, 2025

Rain Dampens May Crowning, but Not Marianist Spirit

Article by Phoenix writer Sophia Kelly ’26: Due to inclement weather, the annual May Crowning took place indoors on Thursday, May 29. On a typical year, the ceremony would be held in the school parking lot, with a fire truck from a local volunteer fire department assisting the chosen faculty member with crowning the statue of Mary on the east wall of the building. Students and faculty gathered in either the auditorium or their homeroom to celebrate the Blessed Mother and listen to this year’s special guest, Mrs. Marconi. Mrs. Marconi, Assistant Principal for Guidance, spoke about how she had

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June 2, 2025