The Fine Arts Boosters are having a fantastic fundraiser for the music program with School Spirit Coffee. They provide us with our own Private Label on an assortment of delicious coffees roasted within days of delivery to our school. Also available are loose leaf teas, specialty instant drinks and an espresso rub for grilling meats and vegetables. View the order form and selection HERE. All items are $12 each.

The coffees will be delivered in time to be used as Thanksgiving and Christmas gifts.

Please contact your favorite O’Connell musician or singer to place your order. Orders are being taken from Oct. 3 to Oct. 10. Or you may use the order form and deliver your order to O’Connell by Tuesday, Oct. 14. Please make checks payable to O’Connell Music Boosters.

If you have any questions, please contact Tara Richmond, the Boosters Fundraising Chair, at TaraRichmond03@gmail.com. Thank you for your support of our musicians and singers!

The Young Democrats club will hold their first meeting of the year today, October 6, at 3:05 p.m. in Room 110.  All those interested in joining are invited to attend.  If you are interested in joining but are unable to attend, contact Caroline Peranich or Rob Crowe, or Mr. Connor.

There is an SCA meeting after school today outside the cafeteria. All Officers, councilors, and moderators please plan to attend. Thank you!

Fr. Benetti is available for confessions in the chapel during B and C lunches every day.

The Chinese Culture Club will be having its first meeting today, October 6, in Room 223 at 3:15 p.m. During the year, we will be learning about Chinese culture, language, and tradition. No Chinese heritage is required. If you have any questions, please ask Mrs. McDonald.

Attention Seniors: Senior Sweatshirts are being sold through today, October 6.  Order forms can be returned to Mr. Britt in Room 236  or to the center office.  You can also pick up blank order forms from either location.  If we get orders in by October 6, you will receive your sweatshirt before the Living Rosary.  Let's do this Class of 2015!

Please note that the library will be closed during Knight Time today, October 6; Tuesday, October 7; and Friday, October 17.

Immediately after school today there will be a Keyette Meeting in room 114. Please be prompt.

The Bishop O'Connell Music Department will be selling Coffees, Tea, and Hot Chocolate this week.  These delicious treats will be delivered by Thanksgiving and they make great Holiday GIfts.  You can purchase them from any musician or singer or stop by the Band Room for more information.

In addition, our musicians and singers will be selling delicious chocolate bars at school this week!  Get them while you can!

ATTENTION SENIORS WORKING FRESHMAN RETREAT:  An email was sent to your school account regarding the details of the Freshman Retreat Training Session.  Please be sure to check your school e-mail account so that you will know the date and time of this meeting.

The Italian-American Club will be holding it's first meeting Tuesday, October 7 during Knight Time at 11:30 in the Conference Room. All are welcome! There will be food!  This is our organizational and planning meeting.  

The Social Justice Club will meet Tuesday after school in Rm 221.

The Bishop O'Connell community kicked off Homecoming weekend with an Alumni Awards Dinner at Marymount University in Arlington. For the first time, the event combined both the Alumni Achievement Awards with the Athletic Hall of Fame, and more than 140 alumni, family members and friends attended the celebration.

The first award of the evening was presented by English department chair, Diane Cerniglia. Kristin Hughes '00 was awarded the Young Alumni Award. Kristin is currently a senior manager for Global Community Health Programs at Special Olympics. She has previously held government positions focusing on public health policy. Cerniglia shared stories of Kristin's high school days, where she already showed a desire to work hard to make a difference.

The Knights Service Award was presented to Ray Zdancewicz '74 by his son, Kevin Zdancewicz '04. Ray has been involved in youth sports all his adult life, serving as the Northern Virginia CYO treasurer for over 30 years. He is a parishioner at Our Lady of Good Counsel, where he has also served on their pastoral council for many years. In 2011, Ray received the St. Thomas More Award for Youth Ministry from the Diocese of Arlington.

Head of School, Dr. Joseph Vorbach '83 presented the annual Distinguished Alumni Award to Kevin Callaghan '79. Kevin is a managing director at Berkshire Partners and continues to be active in a number of community and philanthropic efforts. "Kevin epitomizes the award," said Vorbach. "In whatever point or place in his life, he has been an active, engaged and creative force for good."

Athletic Director, Joe Wootten, introduced the next set of awards, where former O'Connell athletes were inducted into the school's Athletic Hall of Fame.

David Evans '69 was introduced by former teammate Bill Leib '69. David was the starting quarterback for the Knights football team, and Bill was his center. David went on to play college football at Missouri Southern State University, where he led the 1972 team to an undefeated season and the NAIA Division II national title.

Syd Albrittain '83 introduced the next Hall of Fame inductee, Mike Rickard '83. Syd shared the story of Mike's spirit and determination to return to football and wresting after breaking his back during the summer before his senior year. Mike was a two-time Washington Metropolitan Athletic Conference wrestling champion, as well as a state champion his senior year.

Sara Goode '94 was introduced by her former softball coach, Tommy Orndorff. She was a four-year varsity starter who still holds multiple records, including for single season base hits (108), runs scored (107) and many others. Tommy attributes Sara's love of the game and her competitive spirit for her success that led her to succeed on and off the field.

Soccer coach, Alberto Starace, introduced Katie Brodnik '95, who recognized by the awards committee for her achievements on the soccer field and on the basketball court. He called her both a scholar-athlete and a leader; in her senior year she was serving as team captain and class president. Katie went on to play basketball at Duke University.

Coach Starace also introduced this year's Hall of Fame team--the 1990-1991 girls soccer team. The team won three consecutive CGAA championships, finished this season with a 19-0 record, and had five players named to the All-Catholic first team. This team was coached by Starace and Kelly Cole Iacobucci. Several members of the team have already been inducted as individuals to the O'Connell Athletic Hall of Fame.

The Hall of Fame committee also recognized two other athletes who were not able to attend this year's ceremony; Andrew Cunningham '72 (soccer) and Stephanie Vance '94 (softball).

Read more...

Alumni Achievement Awards

Athletic Hall of Fame

All those students going on the New York City trip with our exchange students on Sunday, October 12th must pick up a permission/emergency care form from Mrs. Rubio in room 312 or Mr. Hobson, in room 311 ASAP.  These forms need to be completed and turned in by Friday, October 10th.  Thank you.

Fr. Benetti is available for confessions in the chapel during B and C lunches every day.

A reminder that today, Tuesday is tutoring at Tuckahoe Elementary School! Be there at 3:30 pm.

Chess Club will meet today after school in Room 112. We will meet every Tuesday after school.

The Ecology Club is meeting in Room 236 today after school.  All are welcome to attend and officers will be elected.

Please note that the library will be closed during Knight Time today, October 7; and Friday, October 17.

The music program will be selling Coffees, Tea, and Hot Chocolate this week.  These delicious treats will be delivered by Thanksgiving and they make great Holiday Gifts.  You can purchase them from any musician or singer or stop by the Band Room for more information.

In addition, our musicians and singers will be selling delicious chocolate bars at school this week!  Get them while you can!

ATTENTION SENIORS WORKING FRESHMAN RETREAT:  An email was sent to your school account regarding the details of the Freshman Retreat Training Session.  Please be sure to check your school e-mail account so that you will know the date and time of this meeting.

The Italian-American Club will be holding its first meeting Tuesday, October 7 during Knight Time at 11:30 in the Conference Room. All are welcome! There will be food!  This is our organizational and planning meeting.  

The Social Justice Club will meet Tuesday after school in Rm 221

Girls lacrosse will be having an interest meeting on this Wednesday, October 8 at 3:30pm in Room 124. If you are interested in trying out for girls lacrosse this spring, please attend.

View a collection of photos from Spirit Week and Homecoming!

View other photo albums:

Alumni Homecoming Mass and BBQ Lunch - Oct. 4, 2014

Alumni Awards Dinner - Oct. 3, 2014

Special thanks to Mrs. Connolly, Coach Orndorff, Mrs. McDonald and the yearbook staff for sharing these great photos!

All those students going on the New York City trip with our exchange students on Sunday, October 12th must pick up a permission/emergency care form from Mrs. Rubio in room 312 or Mr. Hobson, in room 311 ASAP.  These forms need to be completed and turned in by Friday, October 10th. 

The volleyball team beat the WCAC’s #2 ranked team, Good Counsel. 3 to 1.

The Anime Club will be cancelled this Friday

Please note that the library will be closed during Knight Time Friday October 17.

The Bishop O'Connell Music Department is selling coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and chocolate bars this week.  These delicious treats will be delivered by Thanksgiving (or are available now) and they make great Holiday Gifts.  You can purchase them from any musician or singer or stop by the Band Room.

Attention Students: Are you interested in going on a Mission Trip this year over Spring Break? See Ms. Hogan in the Christian Service Office during lunch or Knight Time to pick up an application!!! Application deadline is October 31st.

The Philosophy Club will be meeting for the first time this year at 3pm today, October 9th, in Room 220.  If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Funk.

All junior and senior women of O'Connell are invited to attend the Fiat meeting on Friday, October 10th, at 11:31am (during B lunch) in Room 222.

A wonderful opportunity had been presented to our DJO students.  The Col. C. A. Seone Award will grant $500. to three of our students who write the best essay responding to "Why I Like Being an American Citizen." The deadline is October 31 and the awards will hopefully be presented on Nov. 6 unless we have over 1,000 entries for the judges to consider. Please go to Edmodo and enter the code vdn5b3 for this and a few other available contests.

Seniors - Have you completed your Senior Superlative and Survey forms? Remember these are due tomorrow! You can turn them in to your Advisory teacher or bring them to Mrs. McDonald in Room 223!

On Friday, Jeff Dixon and Marty Knauf will draw the winning ticket for the Alex Ovechkin signed jersey raffle on the morning announcements.

The Asian American Students Association will hold the October monthly meeting on Thursday (today) October 9 AT 315 IN THE COUNSELING CONFERENCE ROOM.   The theme for October is Chinese Culture. Please come by and try on traditional costumes, learn Chinese, enjoy music and delicious Chinese food in the faculty lounge after school on Thursday.  Everyone is welcome. 

Global Studies students- Ms. Funk's core course, Morals and Ethics for a Globalized World, will be offered on Wednesday, October 15th from 2-5pm. There are a few spaces still remaining for all Global Studies students who have not completed this requirement. This is particularly important for seniors who need this course to complete their program. Please see or email Ms. Webb to reserve your spot.

ATTENTION SENIORS WORKING FRESHMAN RETREAT:  An E-mail was sent to your school account regarding the details of the Freshman Retreat Training Session.  Please be sure to check your school e-mail account so that you will know the date and time of this meeting.

Student correspondent, senior John Patterson, reports on the growing number of after-school a cappella groups at Bishop O'Connell. There's something for everyone and music is definitely in the air!

Bishop O'Connell Students Reach a High Note
in the Arlington Catholic Herald (Oct. 9, 2014)

Come hear for yourself! These groups, along with the rest of the school's music ensembles, will be performing a special "Pops" concert on Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. in the auditorium. Admission is free!

All those students going on the New York City trip with our exchange students on Sunday, October 12th must pick up a permission/emergency care form from Mrs. Rubio in room 312 or Mr. Hobson, in room 311 ASAP.  These forms need to be completed and turned in by Friday, October 10th.

The Anime Club will be cancelled today.

Please note that the library will be closed during Knight Time Friday, October 17.

The Music Department is wrapping up their coffee and chocolate sales today!  So, get them while you can! They will also be holding a bake sale in the cafeteria during all lunches on Monday!   

Attention Students: Are you interested in going on a Mission Trip this year over Spring Break? See Ms. Hogan in the Christian Service Office during lunch or Knight Time to pick up an application!!! Application deadline is October 31st.

All junior and senior women of O'Connell are invited to attend the Fiat meeting on Friday, October 10th, at 11:31am (during B lunch) in Room 222.

A wonderful opportunity had been presented to our DJO students.  The Col. C. A. Seone Award will grant $500. to three of our students who write the best essay responding to "Why I Like Being an American Citizen." The deadline is October 31 and the awards will hopefully be presented on Nov. 6 unless we have over 1,000 entries for the judges to consider. Please go to Edmodo and enter the code vdn5b3 for this and a few other available contests

Seniors - Have you completed your Senior Superlative and Survey forms? Remember these are due tomorrow! You can turn them in to your Advisory teacher or bring them to Mrs. McDonald in Room 223!

On Friday, Jeff Dixon and Marty Knauf will draw the winning ticket for the Alex Ovechkin signed jersey raffle on the morning announcements.

Global Studies students- Ms. Funk's core course, Morals and Ethics for a Globalized World, will be offered on Wednesday, October 15th from 2-5pm. There are a few spaces still remaining for all Global Studies students who have not completed this requirement. This is particularly important for seniors who need this course to complete their program. Please see or email Ms. Webb to reserve your spot.

ATTENTION SENIORS WORKING FRESHMAN RETREAT:  An E-mail was sent to your school account regarding the details of the Freshman Retreat Training Session.  Please be sure to check your school e-mail account so that you will know the date and time of this meeting.

There is a MANDATORY informational meeting for any junior interested in applying to the summer Governor’s Academies for World Languages.  The meeting will be held in room 317 on Thursday, October 16 at 3:15 PM.  Two students for each language may be nominated by the school.  The Japanese Academy does not require any previous language knowledge.  The Academies are held from June 20-July 11.  Please attend the meeting for further information about the academies and the requirements for applying.  

The Music Department will be holding a bake sale in the cafeteria during all lunches today!

The Senior Math League will hold its first contest of the year today at 3:05 in Room 111. The contest lasts 30 minutes. Calculators are allowed. All students in Precalculus or above are invited to attend.

Freshman retreat is scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday, October 15. Freshmen will report to Advisory at 7:45 am. The dress code for the day is casual but in accordance with the student handbook guidelines, e.g., shirt, jeans and athletic shoes. Freshman may bring their lunch from home or purchase lunch from the cafeteria. All cellphones/electronic devices must be left in lockers. All backpacks, books, pens, pencils should also be left in lockers. The students do not need to bring anything with them for the retreat. This will conclude at 2:00 pm.

Please note that the library will be closed during Knight Time Friday, October 17.

Christ House Soup Drive begins today! Be sure to bring in cans of any Hearty soup! Our goal is to surpass last year’s collection of 11,000 cans; or 12 cans per student. Please be generous!

All French host students please bring your exchange students to Mr. Hobson's room, 311 at the end of 7th period today.

Seniors interested in U.S. service academies: Tomorrow at 2 PM. Dr. Bob Ivany, a retired Army general, former military aide to President Reagan, former President of the Army War College, and current President of the University of St Thomas in Houston, TX. will be meeting with our Student Government leadership. Please let Dr. Vorbach know if you would like to join this group.

Attention Students: Are you interested in going on a Mission Trip this year over Spring Break? See Ms. Hogan in the Christian Service Office during lunch or Knight Time to pick up an application. Application deadline is October 31.

Global Studies students- Ms. Funk's core course, Morals and Ethics for a Globalized World, will be offered tomorrow October 15th from 2-5pm. There are a few spaces still remaining for all Global Studies students who have not completed this requirement. This is particularly important for seniors who need this course to complete their program. Please see or email Ms. Webb to reserve your spot.

Anyone interested in helping with Open House please come to the Admissions Office. Open House is this Sunday and you can earn up to 3 service hours for helping.

Attention all members of the French Club and those interested in joining: Interested parties, do not miss the early bird deadline to pay French club dues. That?s 5 dollars for anyone paying before the October 29 meeting and Halloween party, 8 dollars beginning on the 29th. Bring payments to Mr Hobson in room 311. Members, do no forget to joing the French club edmodo group! If you no longer have the code or need it for the first time, see one of the officers: Shelby Rieger, Kathryn Baker, Isabel Fernandez or Jane Greenhalgh for help.

Seniors - If you forgot to turn in your Senior Superlative and Survey forms last week, that’s ok! You can still turn them in to Mrs. McDonald in Room 223 today!

The next thrilling Global Studies event will be in the library directly after school on Monday, October 20. We will begin by 3:10, so please be prompt. Our honored guest speaker will be Rob Prazmark, Founder and CEO of 21 Marketing- Sports and Entertainment Marketing Group. Rob Prazmark is one of the most highly regarded executives in the sports and entertainment business and is uniquely recognized within the Olympic movement. In August 2004, Sports Business Journal named Rob the Olympic’s 8th most influential person in the world. He is the all-time leading seller of Olympic-related programs. And, more importantly, an expert at consulting and negotiating the rights and benefits offered by various Olympic entities.

There is a MANDATORY informational meeting for any Junior interested in applying to the summer Governor’s Academies for World Languages. The meeting will be held in room 317 on Thursday, October 16 at 3:15 PM. Two students for each language may be nominated by the school. The Japanese Academy does not require any previous language knowledge. The Academies are held from June 20-July 11th. Please attend the meeting for further information about the academies and the requirements for applying.

A wonderful opportunity had been presented to our DJO students. The Col. C. A. Seone Award will Grant $500. To three of our students who write the best essay responding to "Why I Like Being an American Citizen.” The deadline is October 31 and the awards will hopefully be presented on Nov. 6 unless we have over 1,000 entries for the judges to consider. Please go to Edmodo and enter the code vdn5b3 for this and a few other available contests. That code again is vdn5b3. Good luck to all who enter!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The Christ House Soup Drive begins today! Please support this amazing tradition when we literally fill the shelves of Christ House in Alexandria with cans of hearty soup. Any brand of Hearty Soup is needed…Chunky, Progresso, or Home Style! Our goal is to surpass last year’s collection of 11,000 cans; or 12 cans per student. Please be generous! Bring your cans of soup to your advisory teacher! Thank you!

There is a MANDATORY informational meeting for any Junior interested in applying to the summer Governor’s Academies for World Languages.  The meeting will be held in room 317 on Thursday, October 16 at 3:15 PM.  Two students for each language may be nominated by the school.  The Japanese Academy does not require any previous language knowledge.  The Academies are held from June 20-July 11.  Please attend the meeting for further information about the academies and the requirements for applying.

The Gamer Club is holding a Super Smash Bros. Tournament on Thursday, October 17, starting at 3PM in Rm. 202. The general entry fee will be $2 for all who want to participate. Come on out, and have a great time in a fun and competitive atmosphere. Go Gamers, Go DJO!

Today there will be a meeting of the Young Democrats Club in Room 110 at 3:05.   The club's yearbook picture will be taken, and refreshments will be provided.  All are welcome to attend.

Please note that the library will be closed during Knight Time Friday October 17.

Anyone interested in helping with Open House please come to the Admissions Office. Open House is this Sunday and you can earn up to 3 service hours for helping.

The next thrilling Global Studies event will be in the library directly after school on Monday, October 20. We will begin by 3:10, so please be prompt. Our honored guest speaker will be Rob Prazmark, Founder and CEO of 21 Marketing- Sports and Entertainment Marketing Group. Rob Prazmark is one of the most highly regarded executives in the Sports and Entertainment Business 
and is uniquely recognized within the Olympic Movement. In August 2004, Sports Business Journal named Rob the Olympic’s 8th most influential person in
 the world. He is the all-time leading seller of Olympic-related programs. And, more importantly, an expert at consulting and negotiating the rights and benefits offered by various Olympic entities.

Attention all members of the French Club and those interested in joining: Interested parties, do not miss the early bird deadline to pay French club dues. That’s 5 dollars for anyone paying before the October 29 meeting and Halloween party, 8 dollars beginning on the 29. Bring payments to mr Hobson in room 311. Members, do no forget to joing the French club edmodo group! If you no longer have the code or need it for the first time, see one of the officers: Shelby Rieger, Kathryn Baker, Isabel Fernandez or Jane Greenhalgh for help

A wonderful opportunity had been presented to our DJO students.  The Col. C. A. Seone Award will grant $500. to three of our students who write the best essay responding to "Why I Like Being an American Citizen." The deadline is October 31 and the awards will hopefully be presented on Nov. 6 unless we have over 1,000 entries for the judges to consider. Please go to Edmodo and enter the code vdn5b3 for this and a few other available contests. That code again is vdn5b3. Good luck to all who enter!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The Christ House Soup Drive begins today! Please support this amazing tradition when we literally fill the shelves of Christ House in Alexandria with cans of hearty soup. Any brand of Hearty Soup is needed…Chunky, Progresso, or Home Style! Our goal is to surpass last year’s collection of 11,000 cans; or 12 cans per student. Please be generous! Bring your cans of soup to your advisory teacher! Thank you!

The next Global Studies event will be in the library today, October 20th. We will begin by 3:10. Our honored guest speaker will be Rob Prazmark, Founder and CEO of 21 Marketing- Sports and Entertainment Marketing Group. Mr. Prazmark is one of the most highly regarded executives in the Sports and Entertainment Business and is uniquely recognized within the Olympic Movement.

Ladies. Do you enjoy puzzles? Drawing? Making up stories? Coding? How about putting all these activities together to create a game? That's what the members of the Game Design with Girls in Mind club do. Join us for the next meeting in Room 300 today, October 20, at 3 o'clock. See you there!

Freshmen! Are you interested in running for a leadership position on our Student Council? Nomination forms will be available in the SCA room on Monday. Freshmen speeches are on November 3 and voting will take place November 4. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a great organization!

Important Notice to all music students from Mr. Isaacson and Mr. Kadeli: All music students involved in the upcoming Pops Concert should come to the auditorium today during the beginning of Knight Time, promptly at 11AM. We need to do a logistical, non-musical 'dry run' through the concert and we need everyone in the auditorium immediately at the beginning of Knight Time. If we are all there promptly, you will be released back to your other KT activities before 11:30.
 Thank you

All junior and senior women of O'Connell are invited to attend the Fiat meeting tomorrow, Tuesday, at 11:31am (during B lunch) in Room 222. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Funk.

Seniors, on Tuesday (Oct. 21) - you will be taking your Class of 2015 photo in the shape of the 15.  In order to be in the photograph, you must be in full, proper uniform.

Attention all members of the French Club and those interested in joining: Interested parties, do not miss the early bird deadline to pay French club dues. That’s $5 for anyone paying before the Oct. 29 meeting and Halloween party, $8 beginning on Oct. 29. Bring payments to mr Hobson in room 311. Members, do no forget to join the French club Edmodo group! If you no longer have the code or need it for the first time, see one of the officers: Shelby Rieger, Kathryn Baker, Isabel Fernandez or Jane Greenhalgh for help.

A wonderful opportunity had been presented to our DJO students.  The Col. C. A. Seone Award will grant $500. to three of our students who write the best essay responding to "Why I Like Being an American Citizen." The deadline is October 31 and the awards will hopefully be presented on Nov. 6 unless we have over 1,000 entries for the judges to consider. Please go to Edmodo and enter the code vdn5b3 for this and a few other available contests. Good luck to all who enter!

Attention students: are you interested in going on a mission trip this Spring Break? See Ms. Hogan in the Christian Service Office during Knight Time to pick up an application! Application deadline is October 31^st!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The Christ House Soup Drive begins today! Please support this amazing tradition when we literally fill the shelves of Christ House in Alexandria with cans of hearty soup. Any brand of Hearty Soup is needed…Chunky, Progresso, or Home Style! Our goal is to surpass last year’s collection of 11,000 cans; or 12 cans per student. Please be generous! Bring your cans of soup to your advisory teacher! Thank you!

Freshmen! Are you interested in running for a leadership position on our Student Council? Nomination forms will be available in the SCA room. Freshmen speeches are on Nov. 3 and voting will take place Nov. 4. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a great organization!

All junior and senior women of O'Connell are invited to attend the Fiat meeting today, Tuesday, at 11:31am (during B lunch) in Room 222. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Funk.

Today Victor O'Neill will be here in the Trinidad Lobby during Knight Time for picture retakes. 1.  Any student who had their picture taken and did not like their photo may come and have their picture retaken.  The original picture package must be turned in at that time or a new package may be ordered. 2.  Any student or faculty or staff member who did not have their picture taken in August may come and have their picture taken and receive a new ID. 3.  Replacement IDs are also available. Any questions, please see Mrs. Adkins in the Activities Office.

Seniors, please head out to the football field after announcements for your class picture. You must be in perfect uniform.

The Music Department is presenting a Pops Concert tomorrow - Wednesday - evening at 7pm.  Admission is free.  Our amazing music ensembles and choral groups will be performing a variety of songs, include the Beatles, Gershwin, and even Guns and Roses.  It is sure to be a fun evening so come out and support our musicians!

SCA Officers, Councilors, and Advisory Reps will meet in the Trinidad Lobby on Wednesday after school to practice for the Living Rosary.

Tomorrow is Federal Reserve Financial Education Day 2014. Students interested in learning about the Federal Reserve Board are invited to attend a presentation tomorrow, Wednesday in the auditorium during the second half of 3rd period (10:20-11:05).  Permission to attend is required from your 3rd period teacher.  Global studies, economics and financial students are encouraged to attend.

The Stock and Finance club will meet on Wednesday at 3:05 PM in room 202. New members are welcome to attend. See you there.

The Sign Language Club will begin meeting during B1 homeroom mornings. The next meeting will be this Wednesday, October 22nd, in room 321 at 7:35am, and we will start with the alphabet and greetings. See Mrs. Mihalich or any of the officers: Christine Castro, Michael Galvan, Ellen Dhondt or Ben Watson, if you have any questions!

The Math Honor Society will have it's first meeting of the year in the upper balcony of the auditorium after school on Thursday (1:25 dismissal).  If you are unable to attend, see Mr. Bernhard in Rm 213.

Hola estudiantes, This Friday, October 24, there will be a Spanish club meeting in Room 313 for all members after school. It will be a pulsera planning meeting with traditional Hispanic food! Members, please bring your $5 dues. Thank you!!

Attention all members of the French Club and those interested in joining!: Do not miss the early bird deadline to pay French Club dues. This is for anyone who pays BEFORE the October 29 meeting and Halloween party! Bring payments to Mr. Hobson in 311. Members, do not forget to join the French Club Edmodo group! If you no longer have the code or need it for the first time, see one of the officers: Shelby Rieger, Kathryn Baker, Isabel Fernandez or Jane Greenhalgh, and she will provide it when convenient to her. You do NOT need to speak French to join. If you missed the chance to interact with our visiting students from France, be sure not to miss out on other opportunities to celebrate the French-speaking world and learn more about our ties to it.

Attention students: are you interested in going on a mission trip this Spring Break? See Ms. Hogan in the Christian Service Office during Knight Time to pick up an application! Application deadline is October 31!

Students enrolled in the Bishop O'Connell Global Studies Program welcomed Rob Prazmark for a special after school seminar on Oct. 20. Prazmark, a 1971 graduate of Bishop O’Connell, is the founder and CEO of 21 Marketing, a global sports and entertainment marketing organization. His career has taken him from network television production and marketing to worldwide sponsorship development and media relations for the Olympics and other multi-national sporting events. Prazmark has been involved in 16 Olympic games and he already has his sleeves rolled up for the 2016 summer games in Rio de Janeiro. He and his firm are involved in other global sports endeavors, including World Cup soccer, America’s Cup sailing and the Special Olympics World Games.

Prazmark shared his perspectives on business trends today, encouraging the Global Studies students to explore the global dimensions of all their interests, whether it involves business, technology, sports, or any field.

“My views of the market have shifted over the years,” remarked Prazmark. “The U.S. is not necessarily the center of the universe.”

“When I started working with the Olympics there were only a handful of global companies, like Coca Cola,” he added. “That number has grown exponentially.”

The students had several questions about sports as an industry, and Prazmark diagrammed a robust “ecosystem.” He encouraged students interested in that field to explore valuable internships and not limit themselves to one small area of the industry. He also reminded them that a variety of opportunities exist for those interested in working in a corporate setting, as well as for those with an entrepreneurial spirit.

Find out more about the Global Studies Program.

You won't want to miss the O'Connell music program's Pops Concert

Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. in the auditorium.

Admission is FREE. Bring the whole family!

Jazz Band, A Cappella Groups, Orchestra, Guitar Ensemble, O'Connell Singers, Concert Choir, and much more...

Congratulations to the Debate club for their outstanding performance at the first tournament of the season at Yorktown last Saturday. It's not too late to join the team - come to the meeting in room 321 after school today.

The Christ House Soup Drive is well underway! Please support this amazing tradition when we fill the shelves of Christ House with cans of hearty soup. Safeway, Giant, Harris Teeter, and Wegman’s all have special sales on their Hearty Soup – remember to bring all soup to your Advisory. Our goal is to surpass last year’s collection of 11,000 cans; or 12 cans per student. Please be generous!

Freshmen! Are you interested in running for a leadership position on our Student Council? Nomination forms will be available in the SCA room on Monday. Freshmen speeches are on November 3 and voting will take place November 4. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a great organization!

Attention all members of the French Club and those interested in joining! Do not miss the early bird deadline to pay French Club dues. This is for anyone who pays BEFORE the October 29 meeting and Halloween party! Bring payments to Mr. Hobson in 311. Members, do not forget to join the French Club Edmodo group! If you no longer have the code or need it for the first time, see one of the officers: Shelby Rieger, Kathryn Baker, Isabel Fernandez or Jane Greenhalgh, and she will provide it when convenient to her. You do NOT need to speak French to join. If you missed the chance to interact with our visiting students from France, be sure not to miss out on other opportunities to celebrate the French-speaking world and learn more about our ties to it.

There will be an SCA meeting for all officers, counselors, and homeroom representatives today at 3 pm in the Trinidad lobby. Please be sure to attend. Thank you!

The Republican Club meeting will be held in room 326 today at 3 p.m. All are welcome!

The Music Department is presenting a Pops Concert tonight - Wednesday - at 7pm.  Admission is free.  Our amazing music ensembles and choral groups will be performing a variety of songs, include the Beatles, Gershwin, and even Guns and Roses.  It is sure to be a fun evening so come out and support our musicians!

The Stock and Finance club will meet today at 3:05 PM in room 202. New members are welcome to attend. See you there.

The Sign Language Club will begin meeting during B1 homeroom mornings. The next meeting is today, in room 321 at 7:35am, and we will start with the alphabet and greetings. See Mrs. Mihalich or any of the officers: Christine Castro, Michael Galvan, Ellen Dhondt or Ben Watson, if you have any questions!

The robotics club is meeting today, Wednesday after school in rm 212. We are starting to build our robot. Anyone interested is welcome!

Good morning young men of DJO! There will be a regular meeting of the Young Men's Executive this Thursday October 23 in Coach Owens room 224 at 1:30pm. THIS IS A MANDATORY MEETING FOR ALL YMEC MEMBERS AND THOSE STUDENTS WANTING TO JOIN THE CLUB. The meeting will be over at 2:00pm. Thank you very much for your continued support!

Global Studies students- If you emailed Ms. Webb and reserved a space for the Concert Against Hate at the Kennedy Center, there will be a 5 minute informational meeting after school in room 319 on Thursday, October 24th to discuss details. There are still 4 spaces left if any Global Studies students are interested- please see Ms. Webb by Thursday.

This Friday, October 24, there will be a Spanish club meeting in Room 313 for all members after school. It will be a pulsera planning meeting with traditional hispanic food! Members, please bring your $5 dues. Thank you!!

A wonderful opportunity had been presented to our DJO students.  The Col. C. A. Seone Award will grant $500. to three of our students who write the best essay responding to "Why I Like Being an American Citizen." The deadline is October 31 and the awards will hopefully be presented on Nov. 6 unless we have over 1,000 entries for the judges to consider. Please go to Edmodo and enter the code vdn5b3 for this and a few other available contests. Good luck to all who enter!

Attention students: are you interested in going on a mission trip this Spring Break? See Ms. Hogan in the Christian Service Office during Knight Time to pick up an application! Application deadline is October 31!

All those students going on the New York City trip with our exchange students on Sunday, October 12th must pick up a permission/emergency care form from Mrs. Rubio in room 312 or Mr. Hobson, in room 311 ASAP.  These forms need to be completed and turned in by Friday, October 10th. 

The volleyball team beat the WCAC’s #2 ranked team, Good Counsel. 3 to 1.

The Anime Club will be cancelled this Friday

Please note that the library will be closed during Knight Time Friday October 17.

The Bishop O'Connell Music Department is selling coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and chocolate bars this week.  These delicious treats will be delivered by Thanksgiving (or are available now) and they make great Holiday Gifts.  You can purchase them from any musician or singer or stop by the Band Room.

Attention Students: Are you interested in going on a Mission Trip this year over Spring Break? See Ms. Hogan in the Christian Service Office during lunch or Knight Time to pick up an application!!! Application deadline is October 31st.

The Philosophy Club will be meeting for the first time this year at 3pm today, October 9th, in Room 220.  If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Funk.

All junior and senior women of O'Connell are invited to attend the Fiat meeting on Friday, October 10th, at 11:31am (during B lunch) in Room 222.

A wonderful opportunity had been presented to our DJO students.  The Col. C. A. Seone Award will grant $500. to three of our students who write the best essay responding to "Why I Like Being an American Citizen." The deadline is October 31 and the awards will hopefully be presented on Nov. 6 unless we have over 1,000 entries for the judges to consider. Please go to Edmodo and enter the code vdn5b3 for this and a few other available contests.

Seniors - Have you completed your Senior Superlative and Survey forms? Remember these are due tomorrow! You can turn them in to your Advisory teacher or bring them to Mrs. McDonald in Room 223!

On Friday, Jeff Dixon and Marty Knauf will draw the winning ticket for the Alex Ovechkin signed jersey raffle on the morning announcements.

The Asian American Students Association will hold the October monthly meeting on Thursday (today) October 9 AT 315 IN THE COUNSELING CONFERENCE ROOM.   The theme for October is Chinese Culture. Please come by and try on traditional costumes, learn Chinese, enjoy music and delicious Chinese food in the faculty lounge after school on Thursday.  Everyone is welcome. 

Global Studies students- Ms. Funk's core course, Morals and Ethics for a Globalized World, will be offered on Wednesday, October 15th from 2-5pm. There are a few spaces still remaining for all Global Studies students who have not completed this requirement. This is particularly important for seniors who need this course to complete their program. Please see or email Ms. Webb to reserve your spot.

ATTENTION SENIORS WORKING FRESHMAN RETREAT:  An E-mail was sent to your school account regarding the details of the Freshman Retreat Training Session.  Please be sure to check your school e-mail account so that you will know the date and time of this meeting.

The Spirit & Leadership Team, also known as SALT, would like to invite all faculty & students to come to the Cross Country WCAC Championship Meet tomorrow (Saturday) at 11:30am.   The meet will be at Lake Fairfax Park in Reston.  There will be a bus leaving from O’Connell at 10:50am. if you would like to reserve a spot on the bus, please contact Mr. Blaser today.  Come cheer on our cross country seniors! Please enjoy this short video: http://prezi.com/kf93djqidycl/wcac/

There will be a Spanish club meeting in Room 313 for all members after school today. It will be a pulsera planning meeting with traditional hispanic food! Members, please bring your $5 dues. Thank you!!"

Freshmen! Are you interested in running for a leadership position on our Student Council? Nomination forms are available in the SCA room and must be returned by Monday. Today is your last day to pick up a form! Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a great organization!

Attention all members of the French Club and those interested in joining! Do not miss the early bird deadline to pay French Club dues. This is for anyone who pays BEFORE the October 29 meeting and Halloween party! Bring payments to Mr. Hobson in 311. You do NOT need to speak French to join. If you missed the chance to interact with our visiting students from France, be sure not to miss out on other opportunities to celebrate the French-speaking world and learn more about our ties to it.

Do not forget about the $500 Col. C. A. Seone Award that will go to 3 DJO students. Enter and respond to “Why I Like Being an American Citizen.“ The deadline is October 31. Please go to Edmodo and enter the code vdn5b3 for this and a few other available contests. Good luck to all who enter!

Thank you for your donations of soup to our annual Christ House Soup Drive. As soon as announcements are over; please bring your soup cans down to the track. Look for your Advisory Number on one of the bright orange or blue work cones. Be sure to count your cans of soup and give the number of cans your Advisory has collected to Mrs. O’Reilly. Do not break a part the cardboard or plastic cases. Then, return to Advisory. The Living Rosary will begin after 2^nd period. Our goal is to surpass the 11,000 cans of soup that was donated last year. Thank you for keeping many people from being hungry this winter. And now, a video from last year’s Living Rosary. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejT7OfhnQ1k&feature=youtu.be

In an effort to take advantage of our proximity to our nation's capital and its limitless learning opportunities, 98 seniors enrolled in AP U.S. Government took a field trip into Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, Oct. 14 to visit the U.S. Supreme Court and the National Archives. Joining these students were exchange students from Reims, France, who were visiting O'Connell that week.

“[Washington] DC is resource-rich and offers easy access to government institutions that can reinforce our classroom seminars,” said Greg Haas, chair of the social studies department. “Our teachers are excited to make their classes more three-dimensional.”

The U.S. Supreme Court was in session during the visit and seniors lined-up to hear oral arguments in a water-rights case. Unfortunately, the “3-minute” line proved too popular and students were unable to gain entry to the court room. Students did, however, take advantage of the museum, exhibits and informational video to better understand the Court’s role as our third branch of government.

“I was surprised by the number of people who visit the court each day," said Sarah Davis."Even though we couldn't hear arguments, it was a great experience to see the court and view the exhibits."

After eating a lunch provided by the Supreme Court kitchen, students spent the afternoon at the National Archives.

There were no lines at the Archives that day and students were able to see all of the exhibits with ease.

"I enjoyed all the interactive exhibits," said Amanda Green. "We were able to customize our view of specific data and learn more about different periods in our history."

Among the most popular attractions were the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and, of course, the Declaration of Independence. A surprising favorite, though, was the newly acquired Magna Carta.

"I feel lucky that I was able to view such an old document in person," remarked Antonio Morrero.

The Magna Carta, although not an American document, stands as a watershed mark in the fight for freedom. A fitting end to a day spent learning about liberty and justice.

Thank you DJO for your amazing support of this year’s soup drive for Christ House. The shelves were absolutely empty when we arrived and we are happy to tell you, that not only did we fill them up, but we had to create our own stacks of soup in every nook and cranny we could find. Thank you for feeding so many! Every can of soup is important…the Advisories that were able to contribute the most are: from the Freshman Class = Mr. McFaden with 356 cans; Sophomore Class = Mr. Mahoney with 230 cans; Junior Class = Mr. Barnett with 540 cans, Senior Class = Mr. Britt with 738 cans! The senior class will enjoy a morning with hot chocolate for contributing 3099 cans of soup. A huge shout out with donuts for the Center Office for contributing 1572 cans of soup! Thank you so much! The 9621 cans of soup you donated will feed many people!

There will be a General meeting of the SADD Club during "B" Lunch in Coach Owens Room 224 on Wednesday October 29. We encourage all members to attend we will have food! 

The Spirit & Leadership Team would like to invite all faculty and students to come to Bluemont Park at 4pm today to cheer on our Girls' Tennis Team.  Come cheer on our seniors!!  If you like to ride the bus, contact Ms. Funk.

Freshmen! Are you interested in running for a leadership position on our Student Council? Nomination forms are available in the SCA room and must be returned today. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a great organization!

Attention all members of the French Club and those interested in joining:

Do not miss the early bird deadline to pay French Club dues. This is for anyone who pays BEFORE the October 29 meeting and Halloween party! Bring payments to Mr. Hobson in 311. Members, do not forget to join the French Club Edmodo group! If you no longer have the code or need it for the first time, see one of the officers: Shelby Rieger, Kathryn Baker, Isabel Fernandez or Jane Greenhalgh, and she will provide it when convenient to her. You do NOT need to speak French to join. If you missed the chance to interact with our visiting students from France, be sure not to miss out on other opportunities to celebrate the French-speaking world and learn more about our ties to it.

Do not forget about the $500 Col. C. A. Seone Award that will go to 3 DJO students. Enter and respond to “Why I Like Being an American Citizen.” The deadline is October 31. Please go to Edmodo and enter the code vdn5b3 for this and a few other available contests. Good luck to all who enter!