The Unity Council is an organization which celebrates the Bishop O'Connell Community. Unity with Diversity! National Hispanic Heritage Month begins on Monday. Look for displays and announcements! If you would like to join, please see Mrs. Stabile or Mr. Edmondson, John Gauthier, or Rhys Bergeron.

The Anime Club meets today in Room 327 at 3:00.

The Christ House Soup Drive begins on Monday! Please bring in your cans of hearty soup and help refill the shelves of Christ House in Alexandria. Our goal is 14,000 cans or 100% participation! Questions? See your Advisory Rep!

There will be a startup meeting of the Project Unify club at 3 o'clock on Monday the 16th in lab 232 (Mr. Meinsen's room).

There will be a startup meeting of the Ladies Golf Club at 3 o'clock on Monday the 16th in lab 232 (Mr. Meinsen's room).

The Dominican Republic mission trip is back on for summer 2014! Anyone who is interested in going on the trip should attend an informational meeting in room 122 Thursday September 19 right after school. If you are unable to attend or have any questions please see Mrs. Stablein in room 122 or Father Cozzi.

There will be a mandatory Senior Global Studies meeting next Thursday, September 19th directly after school in room 319. There will be a mandatory Sophomore and Junior meeting Monday, September 23rd directly after school in room 319. If you are unable to attend, please see Ms. Webb in room 319 or email her to schedule an individual appointment. Also, if you did not receive an email about this meeting, please email Ms. Webb to verify your email address.

There will be an interest meeting for a new Game Development Club, after school on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 3PM in Rm. 202. All are welcomed to attend.

There will be an interest meeting for the Cyber Knights, after school on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 3PM in Rm. 202. All are welcomed to attend.

There will be an interest meeting for the Gaming Club on Thursday, Sept. 19, immediately after school in Rm. 202. Officers will be elected. All are welcomed to attend.

There will be an interest meeting for the Audio-Video Club, after school on Friday, Sept. 20, 12:15PM in Rm. 300. All are welcomed to attend.

Our Head of School, Dr. Joseph Vorbach highlights last week's Bishop's Mass in the latest installment of his blog.

Read more about Bishop Paul Loverde's message to our school community, and about a special moment at the end of the Mass when Bishop Loverde honored Mrs. Diane Cerniglia for her 25 years at Bishop O'Connell.

CLICK HERE to read the blog, and make sure to select the ALERT button to recieve notification when a new entry has been posted.

The Christ House Soup Drive begins today! Please bring in your cans of hearty soup and help refill the shelves of Christ House in Alexandria. Our goal is 14,000 cans or 100% participation! Questions? See your Advisory Rep!

There will be a startup meeting of the Project Unify club at 3 o'clock today in lab 232 (Mr. Meinsen's room).

There will be an SCA Meeting after school today in room 230.

There will be a Rho Kappa (National Social Studies Honor Society) informational meeting after school today in Mr. Haas’ room. The society is open to any Junior or Senior that has completed four semesters of History and have a GPA of 3.5 or higher.

The Teens Against Cancer Club will hold its first meeting on Tuesday Sept.17 in room 214 at 3:00. Anyone is welcome to attend.

There will be a startup meeting of the Ladies Golf Club at 3 o'clock today in lab 232 (Mr. Meinsen's room).

Victor O'Neill is here today in the upper gym for photo and ID card pix. If you have not had your picture taken or received an ID card (useful for discounts), please stop by today before 2 pm.

The Dominican Republic mission trip is back on for summer 2014! Anyone who is interested in going on the trip should attend an informational meeting in room 122 Thursday Sept.19 right after school. If you are unable to attend or have any questions please see Mrs. Stablein in room 122 or Father Cozzi.

There will be a mandatory Senior Global Studies meeting this Thursday, Sept. 19 directly after school in room 319. There will be a mandatory Sophomore and Junior meeting Monday, Sept. 23 directly after school in room 319. If you are unable to attend, please see Ms. Webb in room 319 or email her to schedule an individual appointment. Also, if you did not receive an email about this meeting, please email Ms. Webb to verify your email address.

There will be an interest meeting for a new Game Development Club, after school on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 3PM in Rm. 202. All are welcomed to attend.

There will be an interest meeting for the Cyber Knights, after school on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 3PM in Rm. 202. All are welcomed to attend.

There will be an interest meeting for the Gaming Club on Thursday, Sept. 19, immediately after school in Rm. 202. Officers will be elected. All are welcomed to attend.

There will be an interest meeting for the Audio-Video Club, after school on Friday, Sept. 20, 12:15PM in Rm. 300. All are welcomed to attend.

The Christ House Soup Drive begins this week! Please bring in your cans of hearty soup and help refill the shelves of Christ House in Alexandria. Our goal is 14,000 cans or 100% participation! Questions? See your Advisory Rep!

SCA Officers, councilors, and HR Reps please bring your Christ House soup posters to the SCA room during Knight Time! This Friday is our first incentive offered by the SCA... the Advisory with the most cans of soup (by Thursday morning) will receive a donut breakfast on Friday! Please bring in your soup!

Any students interested in our new Game Development & Design Club should meet in Rm. 202 today, @ 3PM.

Adoration and Confessions will be available today, during lunch periods in the student chapel.

Hey Seniors Show your spirit during the Homecoming Pep Rally on October 11th with a custom Senior Class Shirt!! They are only $12 and will be sold during lunches this week! You do not want to miss out!

JV BASKETBALL OPEN GYM is Wednesday, September 18, 2013, and Monday, Sept. 23. These are the open gym dates reserved for any freshmen or sophomores who want to play basketball. Any ninth and tenth grader should follow this schedule.

The DJO Stock and Finance Club will meet on Wednesday at 3:05 PM in room 202. Please bring $5 to cover the cost of the Stock Market simulation that we will be participating in this year.

There will be a mandatory Senior Global Studies meeting this Thursday, September 19 directly after school in room 319. There will be a mandatory Sophomore and Junior meeting Monday, September 23 directly after school in room 319. If you are unable to attend, please see Ms. Webb in room 319 or email her to schedule an individual appointment. Also, if you did not receive an email about this meeting, please email Ms. Webb to verify your email address.

There will be an interest meeting for the Cyber Knights, after school on Wednesday, Sep. 18, 3PM in Rm. 202. All are welcomed to attend.

Congratulations to the Boys Varsity Soccer team for beating Episcopal yesterday 4-0. They have scored 31 goals in their past 5 games and have only had 3 scored against them.

The library will be closed on Wednesday from 11AM until the day is over because of a Diocesan meeting.

The first Debate Club meeting will be held Thursday, September 19 directly after school in room 321. All are welcome, no experience necessary. See Ms. Pierce for details.

The Teens Against Cancer Club will hold its first meeting today in room 214 at 3:00. Anyone is welcome to attend.

There will be a brief interest meeting for boys Lacrosse this Thursday at 3:10 in room 140. Please be prompt, meeting will be quick.

The Social Justice Club will meet immediately after school today in room 221. The club's goals for the year will be discussed. All are welcome. See Mr. Cummings for details.

There will be a French Club and French Honor Society meeting today after school in room 311. We will be electing officers.

The Dominican Republic mission trip is back on for summer 2014! Anyone who is interested in going on the trip should attend an informational meeting in room 122 Thursday September 19 right after school. If you are unable to attend or have any questions please see Mrs. Stablein in room 122 or Father Cozzi.

Senior Homeroom Reps: There is a mandatory 10 minute meeting afterschool today in Mr. Britt's Room, Room 236. Attendance will be taken. If you cannot make it please see Laura Kuhn

There will be a Pro-Life Club meeting tomorrow Wednesday September 18 at 7:40 in the morning in the auditorium balcony! All are welcome! There will be cookies and brownies!

There will be an interest meeting for the Gaming Club on Thursday, Sep. 19, immediately after school in Rm. 202. Officers will be elected. All are welcomed to attend.

There will be an interest meeting for the Audio-Video Club, after school on Friday, Sep. 20, 12:15PM in Rm. 300. All are welcomed to attend.

The Christ House Soup Drive begins this week! Please bring in your cans of hearty soup and help refill the shelves of Christ House in Alexandria. Our goal is 14,000 cans or 100% participation! Questions? See your Advisory Rep!

SCA Officers, councilors, and HR Reps please bring your Christ House soup posters to the SCA room during Knight Time! This Friday is our first incentive offered by the SCA... the Advisory with the most cans of soup (by Thursday morning) will receive a donut breakfast on Friday! Please bring in your soup!

Ladies! Ladies! Ladies! Looking for a club where you can interact with other young women who share similar positive values? Come join the Young Women's Club for their first meeting on Thursday after school in room 220. For more information see Ms. Thorton or Ms. Heard! Hope to see you there!

All interested students are invited to attend the first meeting of the Interact and Medical Missionaries Clubs this Thursday in room 326 after school.  Officers will be elected following this meeting.

There will be a mandatory Spanish Honor Society meeting on Friday after school at 12:00 in room 310. 

Do you care about animals and the environment? Do you enjoy good food and fun? Then come to ecology club where the two are combined for a good time! There is an Ecology Club Interest Meeting this Thursday (September 19th) after school in Room 236.

Are you looking to run for an Ed Board position on the literary magazine? The Largesse is holding elections for our section editors on Thursday of this week! Please see Mr. Meehan after school today in room 320 for information on each of the available editor positions. Elections will be held tomorrow (Thursday), and you must be present to vote.

There will be a SADD meeting today during advisory.

Anyone interested in earning service hours and helping with Open House can come to the Admissions Office to sign up.

Hey Seniors Show your spirit during the Homecoming Pep Rally on October 11th with a custom Senior Class Shirt!! They are only $12 and will be sold during lunches this week! You do not want to miss out!

JV BASKETBALL OPEN GYM is today and Monday, Sept. 23. These are the open gym dates reserved for any freshmen or sophomores who want to play basketball. Any ninth and tenth grader should follow this schedule.

The DJO Stock and Finance Club will meet today at 3:05 PM in room 202. Please bring $5 to cover the cost of the Stock Market simulation that we will be participating in this year.

There will be a mandatory Senior Global Studies meeting this Thursday, September 19th directly after school in room 319. There will be a mandatory Sophomore and Junior meeting Monday, September 23rd directly after school in room 319. If you are unable to attend, please see Ms. Webb in room 319 or email her to schedule an individual appointment. Also, if you did not receive an email about this meeting, please email Ms. Webb to verify your email address.

There will be an interest meeting for the Cyber Knights, after school today at 3PM in Rm. 202. All are welcomed to attend.

The library will be closed today from 11AM until the day is over because of a Diocesan meeting.

The first Debate Club meeting will be held Thursday, September 19 directly after school in room 321. All are welcome, no experience necessary. See Ms. Pierce for details.

There will be a brief interest meeting for boys Lacrosse this Thursday at 3:10 in room 140. Please be prompt, meeting will be quick.

The Dominican Republic mission trip is back on for summer 2014! Anyone who is interested in going on the trip should attend an informational meeting in room 122 Thursday September 19 right after school. If you are unable to attend or have any questions please see Mrs. Stablein in room 122 or Father Cozzi.

There will be an interest meeting for the Gaming Club on Thursday, Sep. 19, immediately after school in Rm. 202. Officers will be elected. All are welcomed to attend.

There will be an interest meeting for the Audio-Video Club, after school on Friday, Sep. 20, 12:15PM in Rm. 300. All are welcomed to attend.

The Bishop O'Connell rowing team celebrated with a christening ceremony this week as they welcomed to their team two new shells, a Vespoli 8+ and a Vespoli 4+. The rowing team, Crew Booster Board, team parents, and coaches were joined by school faculty and administrators at the Thompson Boat Center on the Potomac River in Washington, D.C.

It was a very sentimental ceremony for the O'Connell community, as the royal blue 2005 Vespoli 8+ boat was named in memory of Father Luis Valdivieso and was christened by his long-time friend and fellow faculty member, Kevin Sullivan.

Sullivan shared memories of "Father Louie," who passed away in 2011. Valdivieso was a devoted teacher and mentor at Bishop O'Connell for more than 40 years, as well as an enthusiastic minister to the Spanish-speaking community in the Arlington Diocese.

The royal blue 2013 Vespoli 4+ boat was named the Royal Knight, the new partner to the team's white Vespoli 4+ the White Knight, which was christened by Athletic Director Joe Wootten. "This boat's name encompasses the determination of O'Connell athletics and helps to bring that spirit to the Potomac," said Coach Wootten.

"Last spring O'Connell's rowing team was very successful racing 4+ boats, winning the Boys Junior 4+ and Girls Varsity 4+ at the Washington Metropolitan Interscholastic Rowing Association (WMIRA) Championships," said Crew Head Coach Kim Chavers. "This new 4+ shell will help to raise the crew team's level of skill and competition, ensuring continued success."

Father Phillip Cozzi, the school Chaplain, blessed the team's entire five boat fleet and Head of School Joseph Vorbach added his congratulations and best wishes for a successful season. The parent board hosted a small reception on the shore of the Potomac as the varsity crew took the new shells on the water for the first time. 

"The weather, the setting was very Father Louie, pleasant, warm, inviting, joyous," remarked Kevin Sullivan. "I could almost see him smiling down on us through the billowy clouds on a remarkably beautiful afternoon."

The team's first race of the season and the only home regatta this fall will be on the Potomac River on Sunday, Sept. 29 at the Thompson Boat Center in Georgetown. The boys Varsity 8+ will race at 11 a.m., the girls Varsity 8+ at 11:50 a.m., and the boys and girls Varsity 4+'s at 2:20 p.m. The team will have a spirit and hospitality tent with food riverside and welcomes the O'Connell family to join them and cheer on the team.

READ MORE on Father Luis Valdivieso.

Visit the Crew team pages.

The Christ House Soup Drive begins this week! Please bring in your cans of hearty soup and help refill the shelves of Christ House in Alexandria. Our goal is 14,000 cans or 100% participation! Questions? See your Advisory Rep!

SCA Officers, councilors, and HR Reps please bring your Christ House soup posters to the SCA room during Knight Time! This Friday is our first incentive offered by the SCA... the Advisory with the most cans of soup (by today) will receive a donut breakfast on Friday! Please bring in your soup!

Jazz Band auditions will be held Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2013 after school.  If you are interested in auditioning, please stop by the band room!  The ensemble will be standard big band instrumentation, including piano, bass guitar, drum set, and guitar.  Students must have one year prior experience in an ensemble such as band or orchestra or be presently enrolled in an ensemble class to audition.  Piano students are exempt from the ensemble requirement and may audition if they can read music and have intermediate or above skills.

The Young Republicans will have an interest meeting on Wednesday September 25 in Trinidad lobby. There will be food.

Have you ever celebrated the Chinese Moon festival? Have you ever tried Moon cakes? Well, if not, welcome to Asian American Culture & Language Club to check it out! We not only have moon cakes, but also games and competitions, so come and join us today after school in the guidance office Conference Room. That's today! THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 19.

JV Football is playing today at home vs. Gilman at 4pm. Varsity Football is playing Saturday at home vs. Carroll at 2pm. Come out and support your fellow Knights!

There is an interest meeting next Friday, September 27 at 3:30pm for anyone interested in girls Lacrosse in room 140.

Eat frozen yogurt and help the Music Department!  Go to Zinga's Frozen Yogurt at 2914 North Sycamore Street on Saturday, September 21, 2013 any time between 1 p.m. and 11 p.m. and mention DJO!  A portion of Zinga's sales for that day will be donated to help the Music Department. Come to the home game and then go by Zinga's afterward to get some frozen yogurt!

Ladies! Ladies! Ladies! Looking for a club where you can interact with other young women who share similar positive values? Come join the Young Women's Club for their first meeting on Thursday after school in room 220. For more information see Ms. Thorton or Ms. Heard! Hope to see you there!

All interested students are invited to attend the first meeting of the Interact and Medical Missionaries Clubs today in room 326 after school.  Officers will be elected following this meeting.

There will be a mandatory Spanish Honor Society meeting on Friday after school at 12:00 in room 310. 

Do you care about animals and the environment? Do you enjoy good food and fun? Then come to ecology club where the two are combined for a good time! There is an Ecology Club Interest Meeting today after school in Room 236!

Are you looking to run for an Ed Board position on the literary magazine? The Largesse is holding elections for our section editors today! If you'd like to run for one of our editor positions, today is your last chance to get your name on the ballot! If you'd like to run for an editor position, please see Mr. Meehan in room 320 right after school today.  Remember: every member of the Largesse Edmodo group is eligible to vote for their editors! The voting window opens today at 4pm and runs through next Tuesday -- so check out our Edmodo group to cast your vote (or see Mr. Meehan for details!)

Anyone interested in earning service hours and helping with Open House can come to the Admissions Office to sign up.

Hey Seniors Show your spirit during the Homecoming Pep Rally on October 11th with a custom Senior Class Shirt!! They are only $12 and will be sold during lunches this week! You do not want to miss out!

JV BASKETBALL OPEN GYM is Monday, Sept. 23. Additional open dates will continue to be announced for freshmen or sophomores who want to play basketball.

There will be a mandatory Senior Global Studies meeting today directly after school in room 319. There will be a mandatory Sophomore and Junior meeting Monday, September 23rd directly after school in room 319. If you are unable to attend, please see Ms. Webb in room 319 or email her to schedule an individual appointment. Also, if you did not receive an email about this meeting, please email Ms. Webb to verify your email address.

The first Debate Club meeting will be held today directly after school in room 321. All are welcome, no experience necessary. See Ms. Pierce for details.

There will be a brief interest meeting for boys Lacrosse today at 3:10 in room 140. Please be prompt, meeting will be quick.

The Dominican Republic mission trip is back on for summer 2014! Anyone who is interested in going on the trip should attend an informational meeting in room 122 today right after school. If you are unable to attend or have any questions please see Mrs. Stablein in room 122 or Father Cozzi.

There will be an interest meeting for the Gaming Club today immediately after school in Rm. 202. Officers will be elected. All are welcomed to attend.

There will be an interest meeting for the Audio-Video Club, after school on Friday, Sep. 20, 12:15PM in Rm. 300. All are welcomed to attend.

Please claim your lost and found items located in the school store by tomorrow. All items not claimed will be donated to charity. These items include backpacks, sweatshirts, jackets, shoes, lunchboxes, gym bags and hats.

There will be a Medical Missionaries Club and Interact Club meeting after school in room 326 today. New members are welcome as we discuss some unique ideas to help those in need.

If you have not turned in your money for the Junior Powder Puff t-shirt please come see Mrs. Cresson in room 214 ASAP. You will not get your shirt if you have not paid for it!

There will be a meeting of the Young Men's Executive Club today after school from 3:15 - 4:00pm in room 224. See Edmodo for Agenda tomorrow. Don't be late!

Thank you to all the candidates who ran for the SCA Freshmen class officer positions - you did a great job!   The election results are: President: Ellie Ward; Vice President: Hope Meihouse and Secretary/Treasurer: Jearad Pearcy. Congratulations!

Attention students...If you want to help with blood donor recruitment, please be at the Health Services Club meeting today at 3:00 in Room 216. It will be a short meeting.

Our first Blood Drive is on Tuesday, November 19th. To give blood you must be 16 years old and weigh at least 110 lbs. Starting today, Health Service Club members will be in the cafeteria during lunches registering blood donors. If you register, you will be given TWO permission forms that must be signed by a parent & returned to school the next day. Please sign up to donate blood. Our community is counting on us!

Senior homerooms and Sophomore homerooms 2F-2L, please report to the auditorium today after announcements.

Attention all girls interested in trying out for basketball. Try-outs will begin tomorrow.  Varsity and JV will be at 5:45 in the Main Gym, Freshmen will be at 6:10 in the Auxiliary Gym. You must have a completed Physical and Parent Consent form in order to try-out. If you have any questions please see Mr. Edmondson.  

The Young Women's Leadership club meeting times have changed. Please join us tomorrow (11/8) during Knight Time in room 220! Please see Ms. Heard or Ms. Thornton for more details.

Attention Spanish Honor Society Students - Food Distributions at Saint James is this Friday, November 8 from 6:30-8:30pm. Also, Yearbook Photo for all members is today (11/7) as well as the Tutoring Club with Sra. Rubio in the Courtyard at 3:00pm. You must be impeccable in full uniform. Finally, Spanish Honor Society dues must be turned in by Dec 1st. Juniors and Seniors need to renew their membership for this year.   Bring your dues to Srta. Yanine in room 310.

The Gaming Club will meet today (11/7).

There will be a BOYS TENNIS meeting for all new and returning players today (11/7) at 3pm in room 123. Coach Borgiasz will give out important information on Winter workouts and tryout dates. The meeting will be short, please be prompt. 

On November 16, history will be made at Bishop O’Connell High School as the Wounded Warrior amputee football team takes on the Redskins and NFL Alumni. Redskins stars Brian Mitchell and LaVar Arrington, whose father is an amputee veteran, will host this tribute along with more than 25 other Redskins and NFL Alumni including Larry Brown, Derrick Dockery, Eric Metcalf, Kevin Glover, Eric Sievers, CC Brown, Stan Gelbaugh, Tony Lilly, Bruce Laird, Ted Vactor, Mack Alston and as promised, HISTORY WILL BE MADE on November 16 as Mike Bass of the ‘72 Redskins will be joined by the Miami Dolphins kicker Garo Yepremian as they will reenact that famous Super Bowl 7 play – a play that is considered the #1 “Football Folly” in NFL history… Bring your cameras to record this historic moment…”. Please continue watching as we share this short video. For more information, please go to: www.woundedwarrioramputeefootballteam.org.

Please claim your lost and found items located in the school store by tomorrow. All items not claimed will be donated to charity. These items include backpacks, sweatshirts, jackets, shoes, lunchboxes, gym bags and hats.

If you have not turned in your money for the Junior Powder Puff t-shirt please come see Mrs. Cresson in room 214 ASAP. You will not get your shirt if you have not paid for it!

O’Connell has wonderful activities for you to get involved and give back! There is still more time to join one of our mission trips or holiday opportunities! Stop by the Christian Service Office during lunch or KNIGHT TIME to see how you can make a difference.

Anyone who is trying out for varsity boys’ basketball, please see Coach Mihalich in the athletic office immediately after school today to receive practice gear. No one will be given any gear after 3:15 p.m.

Attention Juniors and Seniors…Do you like a challenge?! Do you want to be part of the biggest high school fundraiser for Cystic Fibrosis? Do you want to help save lives?! Then… be a part of the twelve organizing committees for this year’s Superdance. Applications are in the SCA office and are due back on November 15.

On Monday, Nov. 11, the Medical Missionaries Club and the Interact Club are having a bake sale. Please support our efforts to help others here and around the world!  A percentage of the Smoothie King sales will also benefit the clubs.

Our first Blood Drive is on Tuesday, November 19. To give blood you must be 16 years old and weigh at least 110 lbs. Starting today, Health Service Club members will be in the cafeteria during lunches registering blood donors. If you register, you will be given TWO permission forms that must be signed by a parent & returned to school the next day. Please sign up to donate blood. Our community is counting on us!

Attention all girls interested in trying out for basketball. Try-outs will begin today.  Varsity and JV will be at 5:45 in the Main Gym, Freshmen will be at 6:10 in the Auxiliary Gym. You must have a completed Physical and Parent Consent form in order to try-out. If you have any questions please see Mr. Edmondson.  

The Young Women's Leadership club meeting times have changed. Please join us today (11/8) during Knight Time in room 220! Please see Ms. Heard or Ms. Thornton for more details.

Attention Spanish Honor Society Students - Food Distributions at Saint James is tonight, November 8 from 6:30-8:30pm. Also, Spanish Honor Society dues must be turned in by Dec 1st. Juniors and Seniors need to renew their membership for this year.   Bring your dues to Srta. Yanine in room 310.

On November 16, history will be made at Bishop O’Connell High School as the Wounded Warrior amputee football team takes on the Redskins and NFL Alumni. Redskins stars Brian Mitchell and LaVar Arrington, whose father is an amputee veteran, will host this tribute along with more than 25 other Redskins and NFL Alumni including Larry Brown, Derrick Dockery, Eric Metcalf, Kevin Glover, Eric Sievers, CC Brown, Stan Gelbaugh, Tony Lilly, Bruce Laird, Ted Vactor, Mack Alston and as promised, HISTORY WILL BE MADE on November 16 as Mike Bass of the ‘72 Redskins will be joined by the Miami Dolphins kicker Garo Yepremian as they will reenact that famous Super Bowl 7 play – a play that is considered the #1 “Football Folly” in NFL history… Bring your cameras to record this historic moment…”. Please continue watching as we share this short video. For more information, please go to: www.woundedwarrioramputeefootballteam.org.

On this Veterans Day, we at Bishop O'Connell take the time to thank all the veterans who have so unselfishly served our country and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our basic freedoms. Our faculty and staff wear Buddy Poppies as a reminder to thank and pray for all veterans, especially our administrators, faculty and staff who have served our country with honor and courage.

Last Thursday, a school assembly was devoted to honoring our veterans. Special guest speakers for the gathering were U.S. Army SFC Tanner M. Welch and SSG Max G. Gideon. Both men have served several tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, and are currently members of the Old Guard, the elite group of soldiers who guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington Cemetery. They shared the history of the Tomb and the Old Guard, and gave a picture if the daily lives of this special unit.

The school also used the opportunity at the assembly to recognize and show appreciation to members of its staff who have served in the Armed Forces:

Mr. Michael Bernhard – Math Dept. Chair (Navy)
Mr. Reno Cassidy – Math Faculty (Army)
Mr. Paul Gerton – Engineering Faculty (Army)
Mr. Thomas Glynn – Science Faculty (Coast Guard)
Mrs. Susan Koranek – Math Faculty (Air Force Reserves)
Dr. Joseph Vorbach – Head of School (Coach Guard)
Ms. Mary Quinn – Field Hockey Coach (Army)
Mr. James Ewings – Football Asst. Coach (Marine)
Mr. Quinn Holloman – Basketball Asst. Coach (Navy)
Mr. Rodney Patterson – Football Asst. Coach (Army)

Pictured - SSG Gideon and SFC Welch are flanked by Mary Lou Wentzel (far left), who organized the school's Veterans Day observance, and Mary Quinn (far right).

Monday - Anchor Schedule

Tuesday - Anchor Schedule

Wednesday - B1 Schedule

Thursday - B2 Schedule with AM Assembly

Friday - 12 noon dismissal

There is a Spanish Club meeting this Wednesday, Nov 13, directly after school in Room 313. All members must attend dressed in proper uniform for the yearbook photo and also bring the $10 annual dues to the meeting.

Tis the season to start giving! O’Connell has wonderful activities for you to get involved and give back! There is still more time to join one of our mission trips or holiday opportunities! Stop by the Christian Service Office during lunch or KNIGHT TIME to see how you can make a difference.

If you signed up to donate blood on November 19, you have until tomorrow at lunch to turn in your TWO signed permission forms. If we do not receive both forms by tomorrow, you will not be scheduled to give blood and someone on the donor waiting list will replace you. We want you to donate so please get your forms in tomorrow!

Mid-Knight Madness! When: Friday, November 15th at 7 PM-8:30 PM. Who: DJO; Cost: $1 or 25 can-tops to enter. ALL PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED TO RONALD MCDONALD CHARITIES. Each Entry will automatically entered into a raffle: Items to be raffled: Pair of Adidas shoes, O'Connell Basketball T shirts, Royalettes T shirts, Free tickets to Home opener to boys and girls games, Glory Days Gift Certificates, Dunk Contest, Blue v White Scrimmage for boys and girls, 3 point contest, royalettes performance! Introduction of Spirit Leaders! Class Winners: Whichever class has the most in attendance will receive breakfast in homeroom on Monday, Nov. 18!

All Senior girls interested in playing Powderpuff, please meet on the football field after school Tuesday, November 12, to receive safety forms and for practice. Please remember to wear cold-weather clothing. Thank you!

Attention Juniors and Seniors…Do you like a challenge?! Do you want to be part of the biggest high school fundraiser for Cystic Fibrosis? Do you want to help save lives?! Then… be a part of the twelve organizing committees for this year’s Superdance. Applications are in the SCA office and are due back on November 15th.

The Medical Missionaries Club and the Interact Club are having a bake sale today. Please support our efforts to help others here and around the world!  A percentage of the Smoothie King sales will also benefit the clubs.

Our first Blood Drive is on Tuesday, November 19. To give blood you must be 16 years old and weigh at least 110 lbs. Starting today, Health Service Club members will be in the cafeteria during lunches registering blood donors. If you register, you will be given TWO permission forms that must be signed by a parent & returned to school the next day. Please sign up to donate blood. Our community is counting on us!

Attention Spanish Honor Society Students - Spanish Honor Society dues must be turned in by Dec 1st. Juniors and Seniors need to renew their membership for this year.   Bring your dues to Srta. Yanine in room 310.

On November 16, history will be made at Bishop O’Connell High School as the Wounded Warrior amputee football team takes on the Redskins and NFL Alumni. Redskins stars Brian Mitchell and LaVar Arrington, whose father is an amputee veteran, will host this tribute along with more than 25 other Redskins and NFL Alumni including Larry Brown, Derrick Dockery, Eric Metcalf, Kevin Glover, Eric Sievers, CC Brown, Stan Gelbaugh, Tony Lilly, Bruce Laird, Ted Vactor, Mack Alston and as promised, HISTORY WILL BE MADE on November 16 as Mike Bass of the ‘72 Redskins will be joined by the Miami Dolphins kicker Garo Yepremian as they will reenact that famous Super Bowl 7 play – a play that is considered the #1 “Football Folly” in NFL history… Bring your cameras to record this historic moment…”. Please continue watching as we share this short video. For more information, please go to: www.woundedwarrioramputeefootballteam.org.

There is a Spanish Club meeting tomorrow (11/13), directly after school in Room 313. All members must attend dressed in proper uniform for the yearbook photo and also bring the $10 annual dues to the meeting.

Tis the season to start giving! O’Connell has wonderful activities for you to get involved and give back! There is still more time to join one of our mission trips or holiday opportunities! Stop by the Christian Service Office during lunch or KNIGHT TIME to see how you can make a difference.

There will be a meeting of the Young Democrats Club Wednesday (11/13) after school in Room 318. Please be prompt as yearbook pictures will be taken.

Fashion Club is meeting today Tuesday, November 12 after school. The clubs yearbook photo will be taken in Mrs. Carr's room, 302 at 3:00pm. Please be prompt and in proper uniform.

Those who are going to the Tropical Medicine conference on Friday must turn in their permission slips to Ms. Webb today and there will be a meeting directly after school Thursday in Ms. Webb's room 319 to finalize details.

Those Global Studies students going to the Concert Against Hate with Dr. and Mrs. Stabile, there will be a meeting on Thursday after school in room 316 to finalize details.

If you signed up to donate blood on November 19, you have until today (11/12) at lunch to turn in your TWO signed permission forms. If we do not receive both forms by tomorrow, you will not be scheduled to give blood and someone on the donor waiting list will replace you. We want you to donate so please get your forms in tomorrow!

The O’Connell crew program will be offering a fall leaf removal service in your neighborhood the weekend of November 16-17. Our team will be working to earn money to help cover costs and expenses for our upcoming spring 2014 season. The cost per hour of leaf raking with 3-5 students and a supervising adult will be $75. Services include: Raking, Bagging, Sweeping/blowing of leaves off driveways and walkways. Any contributions made to O’Connell Crew above the value of the service are tax deductible. If you would like to schedule your service, please email Scott Kelley at kelleystree@gmail.com

Mid-Knight Madness!!!!! When: Friday, November 15th at 7 PM-8:30 PM. Who: DJO; Cost: $1 or 25 can-tops to enter. ALL PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED TO RONALD MCDONALD CHARITIES. Each Entry will automatically entered into a raffle: Items to be raffled: Pair of Adidas shoes, O'Connell Basketball T shirts, Royalettes T shirts, Free tickets to Home opener to boys and girls games, Glory Days Gift Certificates, Dunk Contest, Blue v White Scrimmage for boys and girls, 3 point contest, royalettes performance! Introduction of Spirit Leaders! Class Winners: Whichever class has the most in attendance will receive breakfast in homeroom on Monday the 18th!

All Senior girls interested in playing Powderpuff, please meet on the football field after school today (11/12), to receive safety forms and for practice. Please remember to wear cold-weather clothing. Thank you!

Attention Juniors and Seniors…Do you like a challenge?! Do you want to be part of the biggest high school fundraiser for Cystic Fibrosis? Do you want to help save lives?! Then… be a part of the twelve organizing committees for this year’s Superdance. Applications are in the SCA office and are due back on November 15th.

Our first Blood Drive is on Tuesday, November 19. To give blood you must be 16 years old and weigh at least 110 lbs. Starting today, Health Service Club members will be in the cafeteria during lunches registering blood donors. If you register, you will be given TWO permission forms that must be signed by a parent & returned to school the next day. Please sign up to donate blood. Our community is counting on us!

Attention Spanish Honor Society Students - Spanish Honor Society dues must be turned in by Dec 1st. Juniors and Seniors need to renew their membership for this year.   Bring your dues to Srta. Yanine in room 310.

On November 16, history will be made at Bishop O’Connell High School as the Wounded Warrior amputee football team takes on the Redskins and NFL Alumni. Redskins stars Brian Mitchell and LaVar Arrington, whose father is an amputee veteran, will host this tribute along with more than 25 other Redskins and NFL Alumni including Larry Brown, Derrick Dockery, Eric Metcalf, Kevin Glover, Eric Sievers, CC Brown, Stan Gelbaugh, Tony Lilly, Bruce Laird, Ted Vactor, Mack Alston and as promised, HISTORY WILL BE MADE on November 16 as Mike Bass of the ‘72 Redskins will be joined by the Miami Dolphins kicker Garo Yepremian as they will reenact that famous Super Bowl 7 play – a play that is considered the #1 “Football Folly” in NFL history… Bring your cameras to record this historic moment…”. Please continue watching as we share this short video. For more information, please go to: www.woundedwarrioramputeefootballteam.org.

There is a Spanish Club meeting today (11/13), directly after school in Room 313. All members must attend dressed in proper uniform for the yearbook photo and also bring the $10 annual dues to the meeting.

Tis the season to start giving! O’Connell has wonderful activities for you to get involved and give back! There is still more time to join one of our mission trips or holiday opportunities! Stop by the Christian Service Office during lunch or KNIGHT TIME to see how you can make a difference.

Senior Ladies attending today’s retreat – be sure to leave immediately after school and head to the buses parked on Trinidad Street. If you have not done so…all overnight bags must be taken and left in the Chapel hallway immediately. Thank you!

ALL Varsity and Junior Varsity football players are encouraged to attend the wounded Warrior NFL game this Saturday. Players are to report to the equipment room Saturday morning at 11:00AM to get your jersey for the event.

Come support your nationally ranked Royalettes at the UDA Fairfax Dance Championships, as they compete in their first competition of the season on Saturday, November 16 at Paul VI (gym). Doors open at 8:00 a.m.

If you ordered a Junior Powder Puff t-shirt they are here. Shirts are available for pick-up after school today, Thursday, or Friday in room 214. Remember, if you have not paid for your shirt, you will not get to keep your shirt. Thank you!

Do you love singing? Auditions for O'Connell's co-ed acapella group will be held this Thursday after school. Sign ups are on the band room door. Come prepared to sing a short excerpt of a song that shows off your voice. Contact Mrs. Meehan or Katrina Eichner with any questions.

There will be a meeting of the Young Democrats Club today (11/13) after school in Room 318. Please be prompt as yearbook pictures will be taken.

If anyone has signed blood donor permission forms to turn in, please give them to Mrs. Black, in the counseling office during Advisory or lunch today.

Yearbook pictures will be taken of the Young Democrats Club and of the Guitar Club this afternoon after school in Room 318. New members of both clubs are more than welcome to attend.

Those Global Studies students going to the Concert Against Hate with Dr. and Mrs. Stabile, there will be a meeting on Thursday after school in room 316 to finalize details.

The O’Connell crew program will be offering a fall leaf removal service in your neighborhood the weekend of November 16-17. Our team will be working to earn money to help cover costs and expenses for our upcoming spring 2014 season. The cost per hour of leaf raking with 3-5 students and a supervising adult will be $75. Services include: Raking, Bagging, Sweeping/blowing of leaves off driveways and walkways. Any contributions made to O’Connell Crew above the value of the service are tax deductible. If you would like to schedule your service, please email Scott Kelley at kelleystree@gmail.com

Mid-Knight Madness!!!!! When: Friday, November 15th at 7 PM-8:30 PM. Who: DJO; Cost: $1 or 25 can-tops to enter. ALL PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED TO RONALD MCDONALD CHARITIES. Each Entry will automatically entered into a raffle: Items to be raffled: Pair of Adidas shoes, O'Connell Basketball T shirts, Royalettes T shirts, Free tickets to Home opener to boys and girls games, Glory Days Gift Certificates, Dunk Contest, Blue v White Scrimmage for boys and girls, 3 point contest, royalettes performance! Introduction of Spirit Leaders! Class Winners: Whichever class has the most in attendance will receive breakfast in homeroom on Monday the 18th!

Attention Juniors and Seniors…Do you like a challenge?! Do you want to be part of the biggest high school fundraiser for Cystic Fibrosis? Do you want to help save lives?! Then… be a part of the twelve organizing committees for this year’s Superdance. Applications are in the SCA office and are due back on November 15.

Our first Blood Drive is on Tuesday, November 19. To give blood you must be 16 years old and weigh at least 110 lbs. Starting today, Health Service Club members will be in the cafeteria during lunches registering blood donors. If you register, you will be given TWO permission forms that must be signed by a parent & returned to school the next day. Please sign up to donate blood. Our community is counting on us!

On November 16, history will be made at Bishop O’Connell High School as the Wounded Warrior amputee football team takes on the Redskins and NFL Alumni. Redskins stars Brian Mitchell and LaVar Arrington, whose father is an amputee veteran, will host this tribute along with more than 25 other Redskins and NFL Alumni including Larry Brown, Derrick Dockery, Eric Metcalf, Kevin Glover, Eric Sievers, CC Brown, Stan Gelbaugh, Tony Lilly, Bruce Laird, Ted Vactor, Mack Alston and as promised, HISTORY WILL BE MADE on November 16 as Mike Bass of the ‘72 Redskins will be joined by the Miami Dolphins kicker Garo Yepremian as they will reenact that famous Super Bowl 7 play – a play that is considered the #1 “Football Folly” in NFL history… Bring your cameras to record this historic moment…”. Please continue watching as we share this short video. For more information, please go to: www.woundedwarrioramputeefootballteam.org.

Between Nov. 18 and Nov. 26, the Bishop O’Connell High School community participates in what has been called a “Turkey Blitz." This is a two-week fundraiser to support the Thanksgiving efforts of the Gift of Peace home which is run by Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity in Northeast Washington D.C.

Please support this very worthy effort to feed more than 100 families this holiday season, by sending in a donation through your student's theology class before Nov. 26.

This 18-year tradition is spearheaded by our art teacher, Mr. Joe Crivella. He shared with students at an assembly last week his very personal story about his connection with the hardworking missionaries, which included a wonderful encounter with Mother Teresa.

Read more about the Turkey Blitz, and ask your student (or contact Mr. Crivella) to find out more about his connection with this mission.

Make us worthy, Lord, to serve our fellow men through the world who live and die in poverty and hunger. Give them, through our hands, this day their daily bread; and by our understanding love, give peace and joy.  - Mother Teresa.

Tis the season to start giving! O’Connell has wonderful activities for you to get involved and give back! There is still more time to join one of our mission trips or holiday opportunities! Stop by the Christian Service Office during lunch or KNIGHT TIME to see how you can make a difference.

Do you think you are scheduled to donate blood? If you have not turned in your permission forms, you are not on the donor list and our blood drive is tomorrow! If you brought signed forms to school today, or are working at the blood drive - please report to Mrs. Black immediately after announcements. Blood Donors - tonight eat a good meal and get at least six hours of restful sleep. Tomorrow morning be sure to have breakfast and drink liquids before school even if you usually skip breakfast. Blood donor appointment cards will be delivered to advisories tomorrow.

O'Connell Girls Lacrosse conditioning will be on Wednesday, November 20 and Friday, November 22. Please meet outside of the weight room at 3:30pm and bring all of your lacrosse equipment.

Reminder – Wednesday is a dress holiday to support families affected by the typhoon in the Philippines. If you wish to participate, bring $5 to your Advisory Teacher and you will receive a wrist-band. Students are highly encouraged to wear the colors of the flag of the Philippines (blue, red, yellow, and white).

There will be a quick Model UN meeting in Ms. Monge’s room in the history wing today after school.

There will be a philosophy club meeting on Tuesday after school in room 215. The topic will be The Problem with Economies.

Global Studies students, if you are not receiving emails from Ms. Webb, please see her in room 319 or email her to confirm your email address.

Attention seniors, if you missed the first deadline or if you would like to purchase an additional senior sweatshirt, you're in luck. Additional Senior Sweatshirt Orders are being accepted through Tuesday, November 19. The cost is $40 and order forms can be found in Mr. Britt's room, Room 236.

The Chinese Culture Club will be meeting today (11/18) after school in Room 223.   We will be taking our yearbook picture. We hope to see you there!

Monday - Anchor Schedule
Tuesday - B1 Schedule
Wednesday - B2 Schedule (1:25PM dismissal)
Thursday - Anchor Schedule
Friday - Anchor Schedule

Tis the season to start giving! O’Connell has wonderful activities for you to get involved and give back! There is still more time to join one of our mission trips or holiday opportunities! Stop by the Christian Service Office during lunch or KNIGHT TIME to see how you can make a difference.

ALL Varsity and Junior Varsity football players are encouraged to attend the wounded Warrior NFL game this Saturday. Players are to report to the equipment room Saturday morning at 11:00AM to get your jersey for the event.

Junior and senior girls who purchased a powder puff shirt. You may wear your t-shirt with the uniform bottoms on Friday November 15 in support of your team.

Come support your nationally ranked Royalettes at the UDA Fairfax Dance Championships, as they compete in their first competition of the season on Saturday, November 16th at Paul VI (gym). Doors open at 8:00 a.m.

If you ordered a Junior Powder Puff t-shirt they are here. Shirts are available for pick-up after school today or Friday in room 214. Remember, if you have not paid for your shirt, you will not get to keep your shirt. Thank you!

Do you love singing? Auditions for O'Connell's co-ed acapella group will be held today (11/14) after school. Sign-ups are on the band room door. Come prepared to sing a short excerpt of a song that shows off your voice. Contact Mrs. Meehan or Katrina Eichner with any questions.

Those Global Studies students going to the Concert Against Hate with Dr. and Mrs. Stabile, there will be a meeting today (11/14) after school in room 316 to finalize details.

The Chinese Culture Club will be meeting on Monday, November 18 after school in Room 223.   We will be taking our yearbook picture.  We hope to see you there!

Anyone who signed up for Open House on Sunday needs to arrive by 12:15 in uniform and come to the History Hallway. If you have any questions come to the Admissions Office.

The O’Connell crew program will be offering a fall leaf removal service in your neighborhood the weekend of November 16-17th. Our team will be working to earn money to help cover costs and expenses for our upcoming spring 2014 season. The cost per hour of leaf raking with 3-5 students and a supervising adult will be $75.  Services include: Raking, Bagging, Sweeping/blowing of leaves off driveways and walkways. Any contributions made to O’Connell Crew above the value of the service are tax deductible. If you would like to schedule your service, please email Scott Kelley at kelleystree@gmail.com

Mid-Knight Madness! When: Friday, November 15th at 7 PM-8:30 PM.  Who: DJO; Cost:  $1 or 25 can-tops to enter.  ALL PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED TO RONALD MCDONALD CHARITIES.  Each Entry will automatically entered into a raffle:  Items to be raffled:  Pair of Adidas shoes, O'Connell Basketball T shirts, Royalettes T shirts, Free tickets to Home opener to boys and girls games, Glory Days Gift Certificates, Dunk Contest, Blue v White Scrimmage for boys and girls, 3 point contest, royalettes performance!  Introduction of Spirit Leaders! Class Winners:  Whichever class has the most in attendance will receive breakfast in homeroom on Monday the 18th!

Attention Juniors and Seniors…Do you like a challenge?! Do you want to be part of the biggest high school fundraiser for Cystic Fibrosis? Do you want to help save lives?! Then… be a part of the twelve organizing committees for this year’s Superdance. Applications are in the SCA office and are due back on November 15th.

Our first Blood Drive is on Tuesday, November 19th. To give blood you must be 16 years old and weigh at least 110 lbs.  Starting today, Health Service Club members will be in the cafeteria during lunches registering blood donors. If you register, you will be given TWO permission forms that must be signed by a parent & returned to school the next day.  Please sign up to donate blood. Our community is counting on us!

On November 16, history will be made at Bishop O’Connell High School as the Wounded Warrior amputee football team takes on the Redskins and NFL Alumni. Redskins stars Brian Mitchell and LaVar Arrington, whose father is an amputee veteran, will host this tribute along with more than 25 other Redskins and NFL Alumni including Larry Brown, Derrick Dockery, Eric Metcalf, Kevin Glover, Eric Sievers, CC Brown, Stan Gelbaugh, Tony Lilly, Bruce Laird, Ted Vactor, Mack Alston and as promised, HISTORY WILL BE MADE  on November 16 as Mike Bass of the ‘72 Redskins will be joined by the Miami Dolphins kicker Garo Yepremian as they will reenact that famous Super Bowl 7 play – a play that is considered the #1 “Football Folly” in NFL history… Bring your cameras to record this historic moment…”.  Please continue watching as we share this short video. For more information, please go to: www.woundedwarrioramputeefootballteam.org.