Dear Parents and Guardians,

Riordan will be opening our campus on January 25 for hybrid instruction to start the second semester. In order to plan accordingly, we need a clear sense of how many students will be attending in person, and how many will remain in distance learning.
Please complete this survey (one per child) by end of day on Tuesday, January 19 and indicate your preference. We recommend filling out the form with your student so that together you can make a decision and commitment. To note:

  • Cohorts will continue on alternating days.

  • Safety protocols will remain the same, including filling out a screening in PowerSchool and checking in by 7:45 am.

  • We will be adding some protocols to allow for more time outside during free periods.

  • The building will be heated.

Thank you,

ARHS Administration
Final Assessments Submission Week: Jan 19-22
  • Classes will be held as usual during final assessment submission week. Those class periods will be used to present the projects, get feedback and possibly make revisions. 

  • Your student should have received information from their teacher about what their final assessment is. Please make sure that your student has a clear understanding of the expectations and due dates. 
SCHEDULE

Jan. 18 - Martin Luther King Holiday (No Classes)

Jan. 19 - 22 - Final Assessment Submission Week

Jan. 22 - Special Mentor Group Meeting and Chaminade Day Celebration

Jan. 25 - First Day of Second Semester (Hybrid Learning)

Jan. 26 - PSAT / Freshman Retreat / Senior College Work
More information about this day will be sent soon. Seniors will use this day to wrap up any college work, update SCOIR, and meet with college counselors as needed.


PSAT Update for Sophomore and Junior Families
We had hoped to offer an in-person PSAT, but unfortunately we will not be able to do so due to pandemic restrictions. However, we do feel that it is important that our sophomores and juniors begin to get comfortable with SAT-style assessments.

All sophomores and juniors will be doing an online practice PSAT on Tuesday, January 26. The exam is an actual PSAT from a previous year, so students will be able to see real PSAT questions and practice under a timed situation. Students with accommodations can also choose to take it with 50%-100% extended time.  

More information and instructions for how to access the exam will be sent in the coming weeks. 
Wellness Corner: Lessening Stress
Does your student need a little help to stay balanced heading into finals week? Try these healthy 7 ways to reduce stress:

1. Unplug from social media and news
2. Focus on time management - plan your schedule
3. Sleep well - set a timer an hour before bedtime to wind down
4. Make time for exercise - even a short walk
5. Talk it out - with a friend or counselor
6. Positive affirmations - I’m doing my best!
7. Practice breathing exercises

As always, Riordan Counseling is here for you. Reach out to your divisional counselor or myself, Elizabeth Heuser, Wellness Counselor, for support.
Events
There are lots of ways to support our Gala this year which will support Tuition Assistance and classroom upgrades.

Get Your Ticket - on sale now!
$75/household

Starts at $500

and Small Businesses, too!


Contact Karin Haskell at khaskell@riordanhs.org for more information.
School News
Scholarship for Children of Law Enforcement Officers
The Michael and Sally Mayer Family Foundation offers scholarships for current Riordan students whose parent or parents are currently serving as law enforcement officers. The deadline to apply for this scholarship is January 22, 2021 for next school year, and must include a student-written essay and letter of recommendation from a Riordan faculty or staff member. See more information here, and please be sure to read all guidelines for submission.
AP Exams

All students who are enrolled in Advanced Placement courses are required to take the AP exam in the spring. Please review this letter, which includes information about course deadlines and exam fees.
Shopping on Amazon?

Select Archbishop Riordan High School at smile.amazon.com and a portion of your sale supports the school!
Upcoming Coat and Sock Drive

Any gently-used coats or fleece jackets that you’re not wearing could mean a world of warmth to someone else. New or used but clean without holes or stains are accepted. Please consider including a heart-warming pocket note in your coat’s pocket!

The Coat Drive is co-sponsored by CORE Team in conjunction with their sock and underwear drive, and collections for all are Wednesdays and Thursdays 12:45 - 2:00 pm in room 111, January 20, 21, 27, 28, and February 3 and 4.
Campus Ministry
Retreats

Encourage your student to sign up for a retreat! Second Semester Dates:

  • 2nd Sophomore Retreat – February 25-26, 2021 Sign Up
  • 2nd Junior Retreat – March 25-26, 2021 Sign Up
  • Winter Senior Kairos – February 10-13, 2021 Sign Up
  • Spring Senior Kairos – April 14-17, 2021 Sign Up
Weekly Reflection and Prayer

Fr. Cameron Faller reflects on how to build a person-oriented society, and upcoming January 22 Day of Prayer for the unborn. Please also see prayers for this week.
Mentors for Freshmen
Did you know we have 45 dedicated upperclassmen that mentor the freshman class? Each of the student leaders are assigned 4-6 freshmen and check in with them on a monthly basis to make sure they are adjusting to high school as seamlessly as possible. Distance Learning has caused some struggles in connecting with your son/daughter so please ask your son/daughter if they connected or responded back to their "Crusader Mentor" via email and Zoom.
Archbishop Riordan High School | Website