Letter from the Principal - June 2021

By Mona Passman, Principal
June 9, 2021

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Congratulations to the Class of 2021 and quite frankly, to all CDH students! This year, they were constantly challenged to adjust: to new schedules, new learning models, quarantines, virtual concerts and plays, shortened athletic seasons, adapted activities, virtual prayer services, social distancing, seating charts at lunch, and on and on and on. No matter what this pandemic threw at them, our students gave it the very best they could at each and every turn.

It could be a very long time before we know the lasting impact of this pandemic on our world and on our young people. I wonder how their adult lives will differ from the generations that preceded them. While I fear some of the negative effects of these past 15 months, our students continue to instill hope in all of us. I’ve been impressed by their resilience and creativity.  Throughout this year, they are the ones who brought meaning and joy to the CDH faculty and staff. 

No, this year hasn’t been easy, and the challenges may not be over. And yet, as we look back on the year, they did so much that we should be proud of. To name a few: 

• Student Council held multiple supply drives.

• Our outstanding cadets were recognized with Diamond Promotions.

• Choir and Band found a way to perform virtually.

• Our winter and spring blood drives collected lifesaving blood at a time when it was in short supply nationwide.

• Spectrum students created a virtual holiday show for residents of senior living facilities.

• Students prayed along with Campus Ministry in the Nightly Prayer for our entire community.

• After last year’s tournament was canceled, Boys Basketball made it back to State and was the runner-up.

• Our students participated in the Counseling department’s small groups for mental health.

• Students initiated listening sessions about racial injustice and the DEI Theater group discussed diversity, equity, and inclusion through the lens of theater.

• The Gymnastics team grew from two members to 15 in a single year.

• Ariana Awiszus ‘24 launched a free tutoring program for grade school students.

• Competition Dance made their first-ever appearance at the State tournament.

• Six students were awarded at the state-level National History Day competition.

• The Spring musical, “High School Musical,” was produced as a feature film.

• We celebrated our seniors with an Extravaganza at CHS Field - a combination of Prom, Last Supper, the Lock-in, and Senior Showcase.

Congratulations on all your hard work, Raiders! Have a great summer!

Mona Passman
Principal