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Dear Holy Spirit Prep Families
We hope you are enjoying these last weeks of the summer. We are excited to soon have your children back!
As we prepare for the school year ahead, please know that we continue to closely monitor developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic. We are committed to using data coupled with common sense in order to make the best decisions to serve your children. Complete protocols will be shared once we are confident they are ready. However, as we shared in late May, we do anticipate that masks will be optional for outdoor and indoor activities for all grades. We are hopeful we will be able to resume as normal a year as possible for our students.
Thank you for your continued prayers, support, and cooperation as we work together to build the foundation for our children’s journey to heaven!
In Christ,
Ed
2021 - 2022 Key Dates Calendar (updated July 2, 2021)
2021 - 2022 Online Calendar (the calendar is still in the process of being updated and is subject to change)
Dear Men of HSP,
The HSP Men’s Group (formerly Dad’s Club) is back for the 2021-2022 school year with an exciting new school year-long topic - Discovering the Catholic Faith in Modern Movies.
Starting in September, join us for biweekly movie nights to delve into the theology of Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight Batman trilogy, Inception, and Interstellar. Over the 2021-2022 school year, we will explore the hidden (and obvious) Scriptural and Catholic symbolism embedded in these modern works of “sacred art”, and deepen our understanding of the Bible and the Catholic faith. Our hope is to evolve this effort into an elective offering for our high school students - we need YOUR participation and feedback to make it the best that it can be!
Participation is FREE to all men of HSP - dads, grandparents, alumni, and male faculty and staff. So grab your Bible, grab some popcorn, deepen your faith, and enjoy the phenomenal filmmaking genius of Christopher Nolan.
There will be a 10-minute presentation about the course at our HSP Men’s kickoff social at Local Three (3290 Northside Pkwy) on Thursday, August 12th, from 5:00pm - 7:30pm. All HSP men are invited for the social event whether you plan to join us for the course or not.
Please RSVP for the social HERE.
In addition to your RSVP for the social, if you are interested in Discovering the Catholic Faith in Modern Movies, rank your preferred day/time for the biweekly course meetings HERE.
The course venue will likely be Malta Hall in the Holy Spirit Church building (next to the Upper School).
If you have any questions about the course or the social, please contact Jason Neff at 785.383.0927 or jneff01@gmail.com.
“People need dramatic examples to shake them out of apathy.”
Alfred Pennyworth (Batman Begins)
“We used to look up at the sky and wonder at our place in the stars. Now we just look down and worry about our place in the dirt.”
Cooper (Interstellar)
We are so grateful to those families who have graciously given to this project already. We ask that everyone prayerfully consider donating today!
Click on MIDDLE SCHOOL BUILDING IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN to GIVE!
HSP Middle School Building Improvement Campaign Giving Levels
Platinum $50,000+
Gold $25,000+
Silver $10,000+
**NOTE: Multiple donors may combine donations to equal Platinum, Gold, or Silver giving level, and make an agreed upon dedication; recognition on the Donor Wall will be by individual gift.
Bronze $5,000+
Green and Gold $2,500+
MS Founding Member $1,000 - $2,500
If you have additional questions or would like to learn more details about this project, please contact Maria Kichler (mkichler@holyspiritprep.org) or Dr. Ed Lindekugel (elindekugel@holyspiritprep.org).
Some pictures of the renovations in progress
Dear Holy Spirit Prep Families,
A reminder that students are required to have annual physicals done in the spring/summer (April - August) before the start of every school year.
Please note that students in Pre K-2 to 5th grade who have fall/winter birthdays may have physicals done around the time of their birthday or within 30 days of the last physical done in 2020.
Students in 6th to 12th grade need to have annual physicals completed between the months of April to August of 2021.
All athletes are required to have annual physicals prior to the start of any practices or games without exception.
How to submit completed medical forms: Our medical records platform, School Doc, is expected to launch next week. You will receive an email “invitation” at that time and can then complete the online sections as well as upload all medical forms. Please check your spam folder as well if you do not receive the email by July 30. For now, please hold on to all forms until the site is available. We do not accept paper forms/email/fax. All medical forms will need to be uploaded into School Doc and all online sections on the site will need to be completed by the first day of school, unless stated otherwise.
Student Health Records Policy Our student health records policy may be found at Student Health Records Policy.
Medical Forms All medical forms may be found at: holyspiritprep.org > Quicklinks > School forms and Resources or by following this link, or
Student Health Record: Pre K 2 to 5th Grade
Student Health Record: 6th to 12th Grade
Please do not hesitate to reach out to Nurse Daly at Clinic@holyspiritprep.org should you have any questions.
Beth Daly, CRNP
“Load ‘em up!” The shouts rang out through the Holy Spirit Prep parking lot on Saturday morning, June 19th. The big cargo van was loaded with tools and luggage, and the two high-top passenger vans were prepped with Spotify or Pandora, ready to hit the road. The parents exchanged their last hugs, “be careful-s”, “call me-s”, “be good-s”, and “don’t forget to brush your teeth-es”. Time to load the St. Joseph’s Cohort crew and hit the road. John Radosta, a past SJC member, described it best: “The first-timers are excited to discover the unknown. The returners are excited for what they know lies ahead.” Once everyone loaded up, the St. Joseph’s Cohort “traveling circus” headed out to Whitley City, Kentucky.
For the 10th year, SJC was heading north to Appalachian Kentucky to help those in need. On past trips, the SJCers have built a complete house, four playhouses, a massive swing set, and a house foundation. They’ve also sided several houses, constructed decks and ramps, hung drywall, roofed, landscaped, and painted. In addition to building with hammers, saws, and drills, they have also built relationships with those they’ve served. Long-lasting relationships. Jim Barney and Doug Pryor, who run St. Mary’s Appalachian Outreach with Kay Morrow (Kay lives in Whitley City), join SJC every year because they enjoy the way SJC works and how caring the HSP kids are towards others. Jim and Doug (aka “Batman”) drive in from Chicago just to work with the SJC crew. Without these three, none of this would happen.
This year was a special year for SJC. With the 2020 trip being cancelled, there were many catch-up projects that needed attention. After some team bonding getting settled at St. Joseph’s Inn on Saturday, the adult leaders prepared Sunday breakfast, then everyone went on a hike at Cumberland Falls, followed by mass and dinner. Sofia Oliver, a group leader who has been on the trip 3 times, shared this about her experiences: “I can confidently say that [SJC] has been one of the single greatest highlights of my time at HSP, not only because of the valuable skills it taught me, but also because of the memories it has provided. The best memory I have is of the inaugural experience of Jesus Hill as a sophomore. I was confused by the excitement, yet secrecy, in the way that returning members talked about Jesus Hill. I discovered why when my good friend Patrick and I flew off the bench seat of the van as we hurtled down the hallowed Jesus Hill to the screaming chants of ‘Jesus Hill!, Jesus Hill!, Jesus Hill!’. In keeping the tradition alive, the returning SJCers only refer to Jesus Hill ambiguously until all the newcomers have their turn on ‘the Hill’. This trip perfectly combines fun, faith, and hard work, not always in equal proportions, and pushes students out of their comfort zones on the worksite and in their social life.”
Now, it was time to build some stuff. The SJC crew had two decks and a handicap ramp to build in a very compact 3-day work week. Early Monday morning, the five SJC groups divided amongst the three worksites, which were fortunately just across the road from each other. Starting with a bit of demolition on the existing decks, the SJC groups were soon well on their way to getting their Ph.D.s in post hole diggin’.
Once the Ph.D.s were earned and the posts were set, the next two days were a whirlwind of activity. And, the SJC crew picked up a fourth project – another handicap ramp for a recent widow who was just being released from the hospital. They gladly accepted this extra project and committed to making it happen. With marching orders, tools, and supplies in hand, the groups headed to their respective worksites and work got underway. The week sped by as the groups on all sites were determined to finish their respective tasks. As each group finished a project, they would move on to help the next group. The solidarity was heart-warming and refreshing to see. By Wednesday afternoon, the two decks and the two ramps were complete – such a satisfying way to end three really long, hot days on a job site!
Learning construction is only part of the SJC way. Cooking is a major plus during the trip as each group has a night to prepare a meal for the other groups. Cooking, like construction, is so far beyond the kids’ comfort zones, yet they each willingly participate and pitch in. Under the tutelage of Dave Labbé, a former chef, the SJCers eat very well each night. Natalie Casal (2017) once said, “Through SJC I’ve witnessed the power of construction to unite people, but I think food is also a huge factor in the camaraderie of the SJC community - from hard-boiled eggs in pasta sauce, to peas in spaghetti, to Doritos in a peanut butter and strawberry jelly sandwich.” Each night after dinner, the groups break off for “flashlight journaling” and group discussions. This is where they learn about themselves and their groups through meaningful questions prepared by the student leaders, deep discussions, new friendships, lots of laughter, and even a few tears. First-timer Reagan Neff said that one of her favorite times was going to Kroger at midnight “because it was great team bonding and we bought our iconic confidentiality candle for our group discussions.” Reagan also said, “My other favorite fun thing was jumping off Mushroom Rock because it was a good break from working hard.” The week was capped off by a bonfire on Thursday night, allowing the kids to reflect on the week and share their stories of friendship and inspiration. And, to share s’mores.
SJC’s efforts in Kentucky this year, despite many schedule changes, were a success. Sofia explains that “The work we do is indescribably rewarding, as we can often see the immediate impacts of our work in people's lives. Being able to share that experience with my friends, classmates, and teachers is what makes this trip so special to me and it is easily one of the best parts of summer at HSP.” The SJC “traveling circus” packed up the carnival gear and left Whitley City, Kentucky just a little bit better than when they had arrived. Early Friday morning, every person was worn out but oh, so happy as they turned out of St. Joseph’s Inn, passed The Dairy Bar one last time, and headed towards the highway and home…but, not before Cracker Barrel.
We are excited to announce the grand reopening of HSP's Used Uniform Store
When: Monday, July 26, 2021
What: The Used Uniform Store sells gently worn Lower, Middle and High School uniform items at highly discounted prices
Where: The Used Uniform Store is located next door to the Lower School Library
July Store Dates and Hours:
Accepted Forms of Payment: Check or cash
You may still register for Summer Camps. Our summer camps are designed to support the formation of each student by embodying the four pillars of our school: faith, academics, athletics, and arts.
Register for Summer Camps
Note: Camps are subject to change and may be canceled due to low registration.
Morning Camps Preschool Prep | Miss Georgia | PK2-K | PS | $150
Full Day Camps Camp All Stars | Coach Vinson | PK4-4th | LS | $250 Boys Basketball Camp | Coach Vic | 5th-12th | US | $250
Morning Camps College Essay Workshop | Mr. Radosta | 12th | US | $250
Full Day Camps Camp All Stars | Coach Vinson | PK4-4th | LS | $250
*indicates that this camp has a separate registration link
Apply now for your 2022 Georgia Tax Credit! https://www.goalscholarship.org/
Contact Maria Kichler with questions at mkichler@holyspiritprep.org.
HSP's Summer office hours are from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, Monday to Friday.
Should you need to contact the Lower or Middle School, please contact Stephanie Irizarry at sirizarry@holyspiritprep.org.
Should you need to contact the High School, please contact Michelle Bertany at mbertany@holyspiritprep.org.
Should you need to contact the Preschool, please contact Georgia Tate at gtate@holyspiritprep.org.
Should you need to contact the Head of School, Dr. Ed Lindekugel, please contact Theresa Sequeira at tsequeira@holyspiritprep.org.
We are excited to announce our new schedule to include early morning and afternoon care for our preschool families for the 2021 - 2022 school year!
Review our schedule on our website.
If you have any questions, please reach out to our Preschool Director, Georgia Tate, at gtate@holyspiritprep.org.
Please refer to the 2021 - 2022 Lower and Middle School Uniform Guide
Please note:
Dear parents,
I hope you are enjoying your summer! As you tackle the summer reading assignment with your child, please keep in mind that the purpose of the assigned pieces of reading is to serve as anchor texts in the classrooms. As we focus more on classical education, our goal is to use texts that will serve as an instrument to open discussions and activities that will lead to critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the classics.
Because the two texts have been pre-selected, you might find that these texts are more challenging than in the past where the student or parent would select the reading based on their interest, comfort and/or reading level. With this said, please feel free to find a strategy that works for your child, such as, taking turns reading to each other, individual reading, or having your child read aloud to you pausing to clarify comprehension. Our overall goal is for your child to understand the basics of the reading and can dive in deeper once back in the classroom with his/her peers. Your child through this process will not know all of the words, which is perfectly normal. This is the challenge! However, the exposure to these more difficult words will help your child acquire more vocabulary hence grow their reading capacity. Hope this clarifies our expectations and goals! If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me at sirizarry@holyspiritprep.org.
Stephanie Irizarry Interim Lower School Principal
Lower School and Middle Summer Reading and Assignments may be found at:
The Lower and Middle School students' supplies list may be found at:
In addition, students in 3rd - 8th grade should also purchase: In an attempt to have a more consistent way to use the students' organizational folder, we are asking parents to purchase the Filexec Soft Touch Padded Canvas Window Expanding File, 13 Pockets shown in the link below for students in grades 3 to 8. The expanding file is made of fabric and is more durable than the Pendaflex filing system that we have used in the past. Grades 3 - 8 Expanding File
In addition, students in 3rd grade should also purchase: Third grade students will require a recorder which may be purchased at https://www.peripole.com/items/12453 .
The Upper School PVA are still selling used books online while books last. This site offers used books at a significant discount and provides you with all the conveniences of online shopping. All proceeds from the sale will support PVA sponsored events. PAYPAL will be the method of payment.
Please note that there will not be an in-person book sale for this upcoming school year.
Below is a link to the High School text book list. Required High School Text Book List
Please click on the following link to purchase books and for detailed instructions Online Used Book Sale .
Any books that are not available on the used book sale may be found on Amazon.com.
For any questions please contact Cindy Jones at mikeandcin@msn.com
2021 - 2022 Required High School Text Book List The 2021 - 2022 required High School text book list may be found at holyspiritprep.org >Quicklinks > Student Forms and Resources or by clicking on the following link: 2021 - 2022 Required Text Book List
Online Used Text Book Sale Information The Upper School PVA are currently selling used books online while books last. This site offers used books at a significant discount and provides you with all the conveniences of online shopping. All proceeds from the sale will support PVA sponsored events. PAYPAL will be the method of payment. Click on the following link to purchase books and for more detailed information. Online Used Book Sale. Should you have any questions regarding the online book sale, please contact Cindy Jones at mikeandcin@msn.com.
2021 - 2022 High School Math and Science Supplies List The 2021 - 2022 Math and Science Supplies List may be found at holyspiritprep.org>Quicklinks>Student Forms and Resources or by clicking on the following link: Math and Science Supplies List
High School Summer Reading and Assignments may be found on the following link:
Please refer to the 2021 - 2022 school uniform guide below.
Dress uniform will be required for the upcoming school year on certain occasions.
2021 - 2022 High School Uniform Guide
Information on our uniform vendors may be found at holyspiritprep.org > Quicklinks > School Forms and Resources.
The HSP Used Uniform Store will reopen the week of July 26. See information above on reopening of Used Uniform Store.
Ascension Music Academy is offering individual music classes over the summer as outlined in the link below.
AMA Registration Form - Summer 2021-3.pdf
Coach Paula is offering private tennis lessons for all ages, kids and adults, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays at the High School Tennis Courts.
For registration, please contact Coach Paula (coachpaula@gmail.com).
Calling ALL runners in the HSP Community: the cross country team will be meeting at the river at 9:00am SHARP on the following Saturdays in July to prepare for the upcoming season.
We will meet at Cochran Shoals (5450 Interstate North Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30328). As always, please plan to arrive in time to find parking and pay the parking fee.
The cross country team is for anyone 6th-12th grade student. These runs are for anyone who would like to join the community of runners at HSP. We do ask that you email Coach Spino (spinom08@gmail.com) so that he knows you plan to attend.
Practice officially will begin on August 2 at 4 pm at the Upper School quad.
We had a wonderful time this week at the middle school volleyball camp run by Coach Bridget as well as some of the returning varsity and JV players.
Please join Coach Bridget at some upcoming Open Gyms to prepare for our first official day of practice. Please email Coach Bridget (bdewitt@holyspiritprep.org) if you have any questions.
9th-12th Grade 6/28 - 3:00 - 4:30pm HS Gym 6/29 - 3:00 - 4:30 HS Gym 7/7 - 3:00 - 4:30 LS Gym 7/12 - 3:00 - 4:30 HS Gym 7/14 - 3:00 - 4:30 HS Gym
6-12th Grade 7/19 - 7/21 - 3:00 - 4:30 HS Gym
Head Varsity Coach Mark Stafford and Assistant Varsity and Head Middle School Coach John Cassandra are getting ready for a wonderful fall of Friday night Lights!
Please email them directly for information about the first day of practice at the end of July.
Coach Mark - mstafford@holyspiritprep.org Coach John - jcassandra@holyspiritprep.org
The varsity clay targets team will begin practice at the beginning of August 2021.
Anyone interested in joining the team will need to communicate directly with Coach Bendig (davidbendig@att.net) and then complete the Georgia DNR Hunter Safety Course which will take about 20 hours. This course is required before anyone can practice or enter a competition. The coaches will select 6 competitions to participate in during the regular season, and then the team will compete in the state championships in Savannah on November 18-20, 2021.
If you have any questions, contact Coach David Bendig (dbendig@holyspiritprep.org).
Get your spirit gear for fall sports now! Visit our online spirit gear shops provided by Squadlocker.
Shop for Spirit Gear
You can browse by sport or shop general HSP-branded gear, and everything can be personalized! The possibilities are endless. Get geared up today!
The Athletic Booster Club is seeking Corporate Sponsorships!
As we prepare for the 2021-2022 school year, we are seeking corporate sponsorships to support the Athletics budget.
Sponsorship Options
Additional Benefits for all Corporate Sponsors
Special Offer: Now through the end of August when you pledge to be a corporate sponsor for the 21-22 school year, get two 4x6ft banners for the cost of three. Have your corporate logo displayed in all three locations!
To learn more about the opportunity to advertise on our athletic fences while supporting our Cougars, please contact Director of Athletics Kristina Wilhelm at kwilhelm@holyspiritprep.org.
Want to have the latest information on all things concerning Athletics? Follow us on our social media channels by clicking the links below:
Facebook - @HSPCougars
Instagram - @HSPCougars
Twitter - @HSPCougars
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