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Dear Mooney Family,
With Christmas break approaching, we want to offer some important reminders about this year's academic calendar and a new initiative we are rolling out as part of our ongoing commitment to providing an excellent education for all of our students.
As you may recall, all Diocese of Youngstown schools are on one calendar this year. Consequently, unlike last year, the first semester will now end after Christmas break, with the final day of the semester scheduled for Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. This adjustment allows for a more balanced academic schedule, allowing our students to complete coursework in a less rushed, more manageable timeframe.
However, we are maintaining the schedule of exams before Christmas break, as we have done for the past few years. This decision was made based on the overwhelming positive feedback from students and parents alike. Holding finals before break allows students to focus on their exams without the pressure of additional schoolwork during the holidays. We are committed to continuing this approach as we have seen its positive impact on student success and well-being.
Here's a quick overview of key dates
Midterms: Dec. 18–20, 2024
Christmas break: Dec. 23, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025
Return from break: Jan. 6, 2025
End of first semester: Jan. 17, 2025
Second semester starts: Jan. 21, 2025
As part of our STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) accreditation process, we have been investing considerable time and effort into studying innovative teaching strategies, particularly problem-based learning (PBL). This approach encourages students to solve real-world problems through collaborative, cross-disciplinary projects.
We are excited to announce that we will implement cross-curricular problem-based learning projects in many of our classes during the two weeks following finals. These projects will serve as the semester's last assignment and allow our students to apply their knowledge in practical, meaningful ways. Students will work across subjects, integrating skills and concepts from various disciplines to tackle complex challenges.
These PBL projects align with our commitment to STEAM education, fostering critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. This will not only enhance students' learning experiences but also help them develop skills that are essential in today's world.
Thank you for your continued support. We wish you and your family a joyful and peaceful holiday season!
Midterm schedule
Wednesday, Dec. 18: Exams A1, A2, A3 — dismissal at 2:10 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 19: Exams A4, B1, B2 — dismissal 2:10 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 20: Exams B3, B4, Makeup — dismissal 12:10 p.m.
For all of the information on midterm exams, visit our website.
Christmas dress-down
On Friday, Dec. 13, we are having an “Ugly Christmas Sweater” competition where students are invited to dress in the holiday spirit for $2. Students, faculty, and staff will be voting and the day will conclude with prizes being awarded for “Ugliest Christmas Sweater," “Most Christmas Spirit," and "Funniest Christmas Outfit”. The proceeds will benefit our School and Home Partnership, which helps us host various events here at Cardinal Mooney. We look forward to seeing everyone’s holiday best.
Good Samaritan Scholarship Fund
The Diocese of Youngstown has established the Good Samaritan Scholarship Fund as a scholarship-granting organization (SGO). Ohio taxpayers who donate will receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit, meaning it's a win-win-win for you, our students, and Cardinal Mooney.
Donations to the Good Samaritan Scholarship Fund will be used to award scholarships to students attending Catholic schools in the Diocese of Youngstown. The priority will be supporting low-income families that seek high-quality educational opportunities for their children.
For more information, please visit the DOY SGO page.
We are thankful for this additional opportunity to support Catholic education from the state of Ohio and for your continued support.
Christmas break building hours
The school building will be closed for break beginning Monday, Dec. 23, and reopen on Thursday, Jan. 2. We look forward to students returning on Monday, Jan. 6. We hope everyone enjoys a happy and healthy Christmas and New Year!
Warm Regards,
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