ST. HELEN CATHOLIC ACADEMY - HOWARD BEACH, QUEENS - EDITOR IN CHIEF: CLARA WIERZBICKI

Articles From December

FROM THE EDITOR

As we enter the month of December, we remember the story of Christmas. It begins with an angel appearing to Joseph and Mary, telling them that Mary would bear the Son of God. He would be named Jesus, and He was born in Bethlehem. King Herod heard of His birth and sent three wise men to search for Jesus. They followed a star pointing in His direction and brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. An angel appeared again, warning Mary and Joseph that Herod would come to destroy the child.

They fled to Egypt so that the prophecy would be fulfilled: “Out of Egypt I have called my son.” Herod was furious and ordered all children in Bethlehem two years old and younger to be killed. When Herod eventually died, an angel appeared to Joseph once more, telling him it was safe to return to Israel. Jesus grew up in Nazareth, where He performed miracles and changed lives. Christmas marks the day Jesus was born. Although the exact date is not known, it is the closest we have to the real date.

STUDENT SHORT STORY

The Historic Battle by: Santino Ammirabile

The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays are in the World Series! The Dodgers have been to the postseason 13 years in a row and won the World Series in 2024. This year in the Wild Card round, they swept the Cincinnati Reds two games to none; in the NLDS, they beat the Philadelphia Phillies three games to one; in the NLCS they swept the Milwaukee Brewers in 4 games.

The MVP for the NLCS was Shohei Ohtani. On the pitching side, the Dodgers best pitchers are Blake Snell, Yoshinbou Yamamoto, Roki Saski, and Ohtani. On the hitting side, they have Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts, Will Smith, and Teoscar Hernandez. For the Toronto Blue Jays, this is their first time in the World Series since 1993. In the Wild Card round, they got a bye, which means they did not have to play in that series. In the ALDS, they beat the New York Yankees three games to one; and in the ALCS they beat the Seattle Mariners four games to three in a classic series.

The MVP for the ALCS was Vladimir Guerrero Jr. On the pitching side the Blue Jays have Shane Bieber, Kevin Gausmen, Trey Yesavage, and Max Scherzer. On the hitting side they have: Guerrero Jr., Andres Gimenez, and George Springer (who hit a home run in the 7th inning of Game 7 of the ALCS to put the Blue Jays ahead 4-3 against the Mariners). In Game 1 of the World Series, the pitching matchup was Snell vs. Yesavage and the Blue Jays won 11-4. In Game 2, the pitching matchup was Yamamoto vs. Gausman and the Dodgers won 5-1. For Game 3, the pitching matchup was Scherzer vs. Tyler Glasnow and the Dodgers won 6-5 in 18 innings in a historic game that lasted almost seven hours. It ended on a walk-off home run by Freeman. In Game 4, the pitching match up was Bieber vs. Ohtani and the Blue Jays won 6-2.

For Game 5, the pitching matchup was Yesavage vs. Snell and the Blue Jays won 6-1. In Game 6, the starters were Yamamoto vs. Gausman. This was an elimination game which means that if the Dodgers lost, the World Series would be over. The Dodgers beat the Blue Jays 3-1. In Game 7, the pitching matchup was Ohtani vs. Scherzer. The Dodgers were losing 4-3 going into the top of the 9th inning when Miguel Rojas, an unlikely hero, tied the game for the Dodgers. In the 10th inning, both teams went scoreless. But then in the top of the 11th inning, Will Smith, the Dodgers catcher, hit a bomb to left field to put the Dodgers ahead 5-4. In the bottom of the 11th inning, with runners on 1st and 3rd and one out, Mookie Betts turned a double play to win it for the Dodgers! The World Series MVP was Yoshinbou Yamamoto.

MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Dear St. Helen Catholic Academy Students, As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, I want to take a moment to speak to each of you from my heart. These first few months as your principal have truly been a blessing. Every day, I see your smiles in the hallway, your hard work in the classroom, your kindness to one another, and your love for God shine through in big and small ways. You have welcomed me into this school family, and I am so grateful for each one of you.

Christmas reminds us that Jesus, our greatest gift, came into the world in love and humility. I see that same spirit of love and generosity in you—when you help a classmate, include someone who is alone, pray together at Mass, or share your talents at school events. You are living examples of what it means to be children of God.

As we get ready to celebrate with our families, I pray that your homes are filled with peace, joy, and laughter. Know that I am so proud of you—not just for your grades or your achievements, but for the wonderful, faith-filled students you are becoming. May the light of Christ guide your hearts this Christmas and throughout the new year.

With love and prayers,

Mrs. Di Rico

SAINT LUCY

Saint Lucy is the patron saint of the blind and those with eye illnesses. She was born to wealthy parents, but her father died when she was only five years old. Lucy was a Christian from a young age, though the Romans at that time viewed Christianity as a crime.

As she grew older, her mother suffered from a serious illness that caused her chronic pain. Wanting to see Lucy married, her mother arranged a marriage for her. When her mother’s health worsened, Lucy convinced her to visit St. Agatha’s shrine and pray. They stayed in prayer through the night. During that time, Lucy had a vision in which St. Agatha told her that her mother would be healed and that Lucy would bring glory to Syracuse.

Her mother recovered, converted to Christianity, and allowed Lucy to give her wealth to the poor. When Lucy’s fiancé learned that she no longer planned to marry and that she had given her dowry away, he became angry and reported her faith to the governor.

Lucy was offered a chance to deny her faith, but she refused. The guards attempted to drag her away to be punished publicly, but Lucy stood firm, strengthened by the Holy Spirit. They tied her to a stake, but the fire would not harm her. The guards even gouged out her eyes, yet Lucy continued to pray aloud. Before her burial, her eyes were miraculously restored.

Today, we honor Saint Lucy as the patron saint of those with blindness or eye illnesses.

STUDENT COUNCIL

As Christmas approaches, our Student Council has been busy finding ways to help those in need. St. Helen has already planned several fundraisers, donation drives, and fun events for the season, with more on the way.

Student Council Cafe during Parent- Teacher Conference raised $729 for the school. We are very proud of their dedication and hard work. Be prepared for upcoming events led by the council!

ST. HELEN SPOTLIGHT

Leading with Patience

Ms. Smith, our vice principal who has served at St. Helen for 24 years, has brought the community together with genuine love and care: “Our students, families, and staff support one another in a way that makes the building feel like a second home.” Each day, she strives to create a safe and faith-filled environment, with a goal for every child to thrive.

Ms. Smith’s passion for education was found early in life when she learned the effect a teacher could have on a student. “Early in my career, I experienced moments where students opened up, grew in confidence, and discovered their strengths—and I knew I wanted to be part of that journey for as many students as possible.” Ms. Smith has shown that value continuously through her support and compassion. She is proud of how St. Helen students and staff have shown what it means to truly live the Gospel of God.

Celebrating Christmas here reminds her of the spirit of the season: love, generosity, and faith. Our community comes together each year. “Through prayer services, classroom activities, nativity reenactments, Advent reflections, and acts of charity, students learn that Christmas is not just about receiving gifts, but about celebrating Jesus’ love and sharing that love with others.”

Her faith guides her through each day—decision-making, interactions, challenges, and most importantly, leading with patience and humility—all rooted in the teachings of Christ. Ms. Smith perpetually reflects God’s love in the work she does for our school.

She wishes us all a wonderful Christmas season: “As we enter this beautiful season, I encourage everyone to slow down, cherish the moments with loved ones, and keep Christ at the center of our celebrations. May your homes be filled with peace, joy, and hope. Thank you for being part of the St. Helen family—your faith, support, and partnership make our community truly special. I wish all of you a blessed and Merry Christmas and a joyful New Year.”

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

When I was growing up, this time of year was a time when all children would watch on television A Charlie Brown Christmas. It would only air for one night and the entire family would gather around the television to watch. It was a special tradition. The many storylines of the episode were true then as they are now.

Charlie Brown complains about the overwhelming materialism surrounding the Christmas season. The characters of the show prepare to put on a Christmas pageant, just like we do here at Saint Helen Catholic Academy. Charlie Brown is tasked to get a Christmas tree which becomes famously tiny and barely can support one ornament. The episode reaches a pivotal point when Linus goes on stage and recites the Christmas Story from the Gospel of Luke. After he recites the gospel story he explains that this is the true meaning of Christmas.

What is noticed only by a few, is that Linus when telling the gospel story, drops his security blanket as he speaks. The character of Linus is always shown as him carrying a blanket. It was his support, his security, or simply something that soothed him or made him feel good. The only instance Linus is depicted not holding his blanket is when he tells the Christmas story of Jesus being born from the Gospel of Luke. This is something to think about. The writer, Charles Shultz, is subtly telling his audience that no matter what we perceive as our safety or security in this life is nothing compared to what Jesus can offer.

I invite each and all of you if you have never seen this moment in television history to check it out. Yes, Jesus is the reason for the season and even a cartoon character lets us know this in the most subtle of ways!

A Merry Christmas to all.

Christmas letter to school from Father Colamaria

ST HELEN SPOTLIGHT

Mr. Lauto, our venerated middle school music and religion teacher, has been at St. Helen for five years. His faith guided him to this school; “I have an interest in music, religion, and teaching for a reason, and so I just followed the interest I already had in these topics, and God opened doors for me through the people I love and trust friends and family.”

Mr. Lauto has a deep fervor for music and religion—he believes music is a universal language that God has blessed us with. The idea of being a conduit for God’s love intrigued him, which led to Mr. Lauto working here. He constantly tries to set an example for his students, applying the values taught during class: “I am, of course nowhere near perfect, but I hope the environment I build in the classroom is one that makes them feel comfortable with talking to God and those they love and trust.”

Mr. Lauto is zealous when it comes to teaching; he loves spreading both knowledge and comfort: “Anytime a student feels comfortable in my class and isn’t afraid to ask questions about something they might be curious about in the faith, or when a student tells me they started praying or going to Mass more that is when I feel I have done my job correctly.”

He enjoys Romans 12:9–21, a Bible passage illustrating how we are meant to live and treat others. Each day at school, he attempts to utilize these verses in his lessons.

“We, of course, have the Christmas pageant coming up, which is organized flawlessly by Mr. Maniscalco each year, and I am always happy to support him in making it a success.” The Christmas pageant is a day where we are brought together by both music and religion: “Music is embedded in community and our humanity throughout time, and so using music to bring together our school community is natural.”

Mr. Lauto always tries to bring us closer by connecting the art of music and the faith found in religion. He has a brief message for the school: “I hope everyone has a wonderful and blessed Christmas break!

STUDENT CORNER

Winter

Snow fell on the concrete, covering the stained terrain.

Without the joy, it is only inane.

Scarlett ornaments hung from the tree.

The leaves now flew after wanting to flee.

Stars placed at the top of the green.

Christmas made the joy be seen.

BIBLE VERSE

2 Samuel 22:31 “This God—his way is perfect; the promise of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all who take refuge in him

CALENDAR

December 18th - 6:30 PM Christmas Pageant

December 19th - 9:00 AM / 12:30PM

Christmas Pageant / 2:00 PM Dismissal

December 22nd - Children’s Christmas Raffle Ends

December 23rd - Class Celebration / 12 :00 PM Dismissal

December 24th - School Recess

January 5th - Classes Resume

January 6th - Epiphany of The Lord

January 13th - Chocolate Sale Begins

January 16th - School Closed - Professional Day

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Articles From February

FROM THE EDITOR

Catholic Schools Week has come to an end, and the students took part in many exciting activities, including Buddy Day, radio bingo, bubble shows, and more. We especially enjoyed the Career Day presentations and are grateful to all of the parents who shared their time and experiences.

Each class decorated their doors beautifully, showing both creativity and hard work. Buddy Day was also a great success, as older students spent time with younger ones. Everyone had fun, especially while working on crafts together. St. Helen had an open house on February 1, 2026. Student Council members guided most visitors around the school. We hope to see more Student Council members at future events.

Our St. Helen community continues to grow in faith, learning, and kindness. We are thankful for our teachers, students, and families who make our school a special place.

ST HELEN SPOTLIGHT

A Special Addition to St. Helen

Mrs. Guallpa has joined our school only this year, yet she has shown enthusiasm for learning in her classroom. She enjoys teaching middle school science because of the mesmerizing topics within. She encourages curiosity and exploration in the classroom by creating a safe environment for students.

Mrs. Guallpa enjoys the rewarding moments of students’ intellectual growth at St. Helen most. The pleasant and religious environment has also led her to enjoy the past few months at the school. Mrs. Guallpa incorporates her Catholic faith into her classroom by beginning and ending the day with a brief prayer. She is always available to her students for any faith-related discussions or questions. Her religion is reflected in her daily science lessons.

Mrs. Guallpa wants her students to know that mistakes are not failures, and that it doesn’t hurt to be kind to others. A growth mindset will set us up for the future. She also had a dog named Lady during her childhood, whom she adored.

Mrs. Guallpa is an amazing addition to our school, and she has done a lot for her students.

STUDENT CORNER

The Princess and the Musician

A lonely princess often snuck out of her palace and met a homeless boy who played music in the streets.

He treated her like a normal girl, and they slowly fell in love, sharing dreams of freedom and a different life.

One night, the guards appeared with torches, calling the princess’s name. The boy froze as he realized who she was. She stepped forward just as the palace gates flew open behind them, and everyone waited to see what she would do next.

by Alia Richmond

The Turning of February

The crimson of the roses filled the snow

The new leaves began to grow

Although the flakes still fell on the ground

The change was visible all around

It marks the start of the season of Lent

February illustrates all the love shown by others

by Clara Wierzbicki

ST HELEN SPOTLIGHT

Making a Difference

Ms. Pellegrino has taught at St. Helen for five years and has touched countless lives through her gregarious character. She currently teaches middle school social studies, though she has taught mostly ELA throughout her career.

Ms. Pellegrino has had a passion for teaching since early childhood. During her years at St. Helen, she has taught almost every subject and has been a driving force behind her students’ intellectual growth.

What she loves most about St. Helen is the student body and the Catholic atmosphere. She joined the school because of its Christ-centered environment and the way it consistently inspires students to grow in their faith.

Ms. Pellegrino encourages her students to excel by setting high and thoughtful standards, always wanting them to reach their full potential. When a student is struggling, she takes the time to help them understand through patience and encouragement. Her classroom is filled with both wisdom and kindness.

She consistently incorporates God’s teachings into her social studies lessons, using history as a way for students to reflect on God’s presence in past events. She values Catholic education, especially at St. Helen, for its inclusion of Jesus Christ in all that is done.

There are also many things about Ms. Pellegrino that students may not know. She enjoys shopping and fashion, including makeup, hair, and clothing. She also enjoys reading and recommends A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens to higher-level readers. Her favorite Catholic Schools Week activity is Buddy Day, when older students spend time with younger ones through crafts and activities.

Ms. Pellegrino has truly been a blessing to the St. Helen community, and we are grateful to have her teaching our students.

ASH WEDNESDAY

Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent, will occur on February 18th. It is a time of penance and humility. The blessed palm branches from Palm Sunday are turned to ash, and they are spread on one’s forehead in the shape of a cross. The Cross symbolizes mortality. Ash Wednesday is the official beginning of Lent and symbolizes Jesus spending 40 days in the desert, resisting temptation. It is a crucial date in Catholicism; however, it is not a Holy Day of Obligation.

SAINT VALENTINE

The Feast of St. Valentine is celebrated on February 14th, Valentine’s Day. He is the patron saint of love, beekeepers, epilepsy, and travel. In the 3rd century, Emperor Claudius III prohibited marriage for young men; he believed it made better soldiers. Marriage was punishable by execution. Soon after, a Roman priest named Valentine viewed this as unjust and secretly married couples away from public view.

After a few ceremonies, word spread that Valentine was defying Claudius’ orders. On February 14th, amid a ceremony, the emperor’s guards came to arrest him. Valentine protested, saying, “These are Christian weddings, not real Roman weddings. People leave here and go to the temple of Juno to have a legal wedding. Surely it is only the real weddings that are banned.” That morning, the emperor banned Christian wedding ceremonies along with Roman weddings. Claudius sentenced Valentine to a three-part execution: beating, stoning, and beheading.

In prison, he met a judge named Asterius. The judge requested that Valentine heal his blind daughter. After praying, her sight was miraculously restored. This led to the baptism of the judge’s entire family. On the day of his execution, Valentine wrote a note to the judge’s daughter: “From your Valentine.” Valentine’s Day is celebrated to remember St. Valentine, his actions, and his faith in God.

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