CPS SceneEnd-of-Year 2012

Congratulates theCongratulates theGraduating Class of 2012Graduating Class of 2012

First Row: Francisco Oller,Chiara Vantaggiato, Amandla Colón,Nicole Orsini, Yulia Rodríguez,Stephanie Hornedo, Sebastian Mundo,Julia Toro

Second Row: Bryanna Leal, María Bolivar,Claudia Bosch, Francesca Carrol,Michelle Freeman, Laila CraneAdriana Reyes

Third Row: Rafael Lastra, ChristopherArnold-Suarez, Alejandro Sanchez,Kristian Román, Luigi Santini,Alejandro Zuñiga, Andres Castiel,Gabriela Acebal

Fourth Row: Luis Ortiz, Skylar Esparza,Matías Rosner, Cemil Revan, AndresRomero, Joel Ramos

Fifth Row: Sebastian Rivera, Miguel Torres,Clarianne Moscoso

Upstairs: Felipe Ortiz, Sebastian Colón,Kimberly Veliz, Gerardo Rentas,Diego San Miguel, Maricelis Galanes,Laura Colón, Lucas Carus,Rafael Rodríguez-Ema, Enrique Llenza,Joel Rosario, Jose Badrena,Gustavo Mercado

College AcceptancesAmerican UniversityBates CollegeBentley University Boston CollegeBoston UniversityBrown UniversityBryant University Canisius CollegeCarnegie Mellon UniversityClark UniversityColby CollegeColgate University Dartmouth CollegeDenison University Drexel University Duquesne University Eckerd College Elon UniversityEmerson College Evergreen State College

Florida Gulf Coast UniversityFlorida Institute of TechnologyFlorida International UniversityFlorida Southern CollegeFordham UniversityGeorge Washington UniversityGeorgia TechHaverford CollegeHigh Point UniversityHofstra UniversityHumboldt State UniversityIthaca CollegeJohns Hopkins UniversityJohnson & Wales- FloridaLehigh UniversityLoyola University-MarylandLoyola University-New OrleansManhattan CollegeManhattanville CollegeMarquette UniversityMarymount Manhattan College

Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyNew York UniversityNortheastern UniversityNova Southeastern UniversityOhio State UniversityPenn State UniversityPrinceton UniversityReed CollegeRensselaer Polytechnic InstituteRider UniversityRingling College of ArtRollins CollegeSaint Joseph’s UniversitySarah Lawrence CollegeSavannah College of Art & DesignSeton Hall UniversitySt. Mary’s UniversityStetson UniversityStevens Institute of TechnologyStevenson UniversitySuffolk University

Syracuse University Tulane University University of Massachusetts - AmherstUniversidad Interamericana de Puerto RicoUniversidad Politécnica de Puerto Rico Universidad del Sagrado CorazónUniversity of Chicago University of ConnecticutUniversity of GeorgiaUniversity of DaytonUniversity of Miami University of Michigan University of Puerto RicoUniversity of TampaVassar CollegeVillanova UniversityWake Forest UniversityWentworth Institute of TechnologyWilliams CollegeWorcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI)Xavier University

cpss cene

P A G E T W O

COMETS ATHLETICSPARKVILLE CAMPUS

by Jimmy López, Athletic Director

On Friday, May 18, 2012 the Athletic Department honored their students for their hard work during this school year.

This was an excellent year for our Comets. Our Cross Country Boys finished as sub-champions in the league. The

Girls Volleyball qualified for the playoffs. Also, the boys Soccer team qualified for the playoffs and the girls Soccer

team won the sub-championship. Both the girls’ and boys’ Tennis teams qualified for the playoffs. In Basketball the

girls’ team reached the semi-finals. And our boys’ Track and Field team finished in 5th place. However, the girls

and boys won medals in different events. To all the students athletes, keep up the good work; we are very proud of

you. Remember, Once a Comet, always a Comet. See you next fall.

J U N E 2 0 1 2

EDITOR

F. Richard Marracino

Headmaster

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Carrie Newdall

English Department

COPY EDITOR

Marta C. Alvarez

Secretary to the Headmaster

EDITORIAL BOARD

Elsie Calimano

Director Lower Elementary

Judith Rivera

Director Upper Elementary

Evelyn Collazo

Director Middle & High School

Sonia Colón

Director Horizons Program

Published quarterly

PO Box 70177

San Juan, PR 00936-8177

Phone: (787) 765-4411

FAX: (787) 764-3809

César Rodríguez, José Anca, Jorge Hernández,José Rodríguez and Jimmy López

Tony Quiles, Sabrina González, César Rodríguez, Alfonso Antomattei y Jimmy López

César Rodríguez and Gabriel San Miguel

cpss cene

P A G E T H R E E

COMETS ATHLETICSCOMMONWEALTH CAMPUS

by Edmundo Báez, Athletic Director and Dean of Students

Sports Award Ceremony

On Friday May 25 the Sports Awards Ceremony was held at the Gloria Shuman Theater. This activity as in everyyear recognizes the effort of all athletes at Commonwealth Campus. The MC’s of the Activity were Tere Durán,Miriam Soto and Albert Muñiz.

The recipients of the Abott Kaufer Award were Maité Rolón and Ricardo Dip. The Athletes of the Year Awardswere Aryam Iglesias and Alejandro González Charles. The Athletic Department congratulates the winners of thoseAwards and thanks the whole CPS family for their support during all sports activities of the year 2011-12.

J U N E 2 0 1 2

Athlete of the YearAlejandro González and

Aryam Iglesias

Abbott KauferAward

Ricardo Dip &Maité Rolón

Girls Soccer Varsity

Boys Soccer Jr. Varsity

Albert Muñizleads the cheers.

cpss cene

P A G E F O U R

Year after year, the completion of a second semester always

brings mixed emotions. Students celebrate the beginning of

summer vacations while the smiles and cheers of the Senior

Class are met with tears of joy and sadness caused by the

thought of leaving CPS. Nevertheless, the end of the academic

year is also a time to celebrate and deliver special recognitions

in a very special way to students who excel academically.

Aside from academic excellence, these students have contribut-

ed tremendously to their class, the clubs they participate in and

to everyday life at CPS. This year, the following students were

elected STUDENT OF THE YEAR:

Congratulations to Gustavo Mercado for

having been selected by the high school faculty

as “Student of the Year” 2012. As a member of

the INTERACT club he took part in community

service projects that included among others,

tutoring younger students, working with

“Fundación Modesto Gotay”, Race for the

Cure, volunteering at an animal shelter and

being part of the library advisor program. As a member of the

drama club he participated in the yearly musicals, especially this

year’s starring role as Captain Von Trapp in “The Sound of Music”.

As the enthusiastic voice behind the daily announcements Gustavo

not only kept the student body informed of upcoming activities, but

helped us all start the day with a smile and the optimism that

defines him as a true “COMET”. We wish him all the success in the

world at Dartmouth College where he will begin his studies this

fall.

Ella Scholz joined the CPS family in 2009 as

a 6th grade student. Many words describe Ella.

She is outstanding academically, a leader and a

very happy student. She is a member of the

National Junior Honor Society and an active

officer for her eight grade class. Ella loves

ballet and playing the piano. She has served as

a school ambassador, having won the Spelling

Bee for the past two years and reaching the island finals on both

occasions. Teaching a student as dedicated as Ella is a special expe-

rience. She takes care of her responsibilities with a smile, as

everyone should. Her future teachers are in for a treat because Ella

embodies the best example of what an excellent student should be,

hardworking and ready to face any given challenge.

Congratulations to Ella for having been chosen “Student of the

Year” for 2012!.

J U N E 2 0 1 2

WE ARE PROUD OF YOU!Teacher and Student of the Year Awards

María Fernanda Ferrer Aponte. María

Fernanda has been a student at the PKS

campus since 2003 when she entered PPK. She

has developed outstanding qualities such as lead-

ership and sportsmanship, all the while being a

compassionate, caring and excellent student.

María has a wonderful disposition and is ready to

help anyone that may need her. Classmates, faculty, staff and admin-

istrators agree that María represents a true Comet. She lights up the

sky! Congratulations to María. Enjoy your time at the

Commonwealth Campus, where you will continue to shine.

TEACHER OF THE YEAR AT CHSThis year’s “Teacher of the Year” from CHS Campus

is Ms. Zayra Luz Gotay from the Spanish

Department. Ms. Gotay was chosen by the vote of

the faculty in recognition of her various contributions

to school life at Commonwealth. Ms. Gotay has been

a teacher at CPS since 2004. Her academic

achievements include a BA from UPR Río Piedras

and a Master’s in Communication from the same institution. As a

Spanish teacher she has taught practically all grades in the middle and

high school levels. She has also been actively involved with students

through organizations such as Oratoria and as faculty advisor to several

classes through the years. Since 2011 she is the coordinator of “Fly by

Night”, a creative drama production. Other important tasks she has per-

formed as part of our faculty are the coordination of AFG accreditation,

Noche Puertorriqueña, and the Awards Ceremony. Congratulations to

Ms.Gotay for a well-deserved recognition!

TEACHER OF THE YEAR AT PKS

Gladys GuzmánGladys became a proud member of the CPS faculty

team when she joined us as a Kindergarten

teacher three years ago. Previously, she worked as an

ESL teacher for special needs students in grades 1st

through 7th and as a Spanish teacher in grades 4th

through 7th. Gladys is a team worker, a leader and

a friend to every colleague. She has played a key

role in the implementation of preschool programs, challenging her stu-

dents in a loving, caring learning environment. She enjoys traveling,

reading and spending time with family and friends. During her spare

time, she sings at church and also works with deaf children by interpret-

ing sign language to them. She is currently working on her Master’s

degree in Curriculum and Instruction Design. We thank Gladys for her

outstanding commitment and dedication to her students, for planting the

desire for life- long learning.

cpss cene

P A G E F I V EJ U N E 2 0 1 2

HONOR ROLL 2011-20125th gradeGabriel Acosta

Pablo Baerga

Roberto Cabrera

Mariola Contreras

Sebastián Donato

Jonathan Fernández

Roberto Oliveras

Karina Peniston

Diego Redondo

Sebastián Redondo

Stephanie Ruiz

Natasha San Miguel

6th gradeGabriel Antomattei

Arianna Arroyo

Leandro Goicoechea

Diego Medina

Daniel Rodríguez

José Rodríguez

7th gradeAdriana Vilá

8th gradePaola Jiménez

David San Miguel

Camila Vilá

9th gradeCoralle Escoda

Mónica Reyes

10th gradeElisa Benítez

Francisco Delgado

The Gold Honor Roll Medal is awarded tothose students who have made the Honor Rollduring all four quarters and have maintainedan overall average of 94% in all subjects, withno grade lower than a 90% in the four markingperiods.

The Silver Honor Roll Medal is awarded tothose students who have made the honor rollduring all four quarters and have maintained anumerical average of 89% in all subjects, withno grade lower than 80% in the four markingperiods or a combination of Silver and Gold forthe four marking periods..

5th gradeSofía Alvarez

José Anca

José Carro

Franco Chico

Leonardo De la Rosa

Raúl Estopinal

Adrián Faccio

Miguel Franco

Víctor Hernández

Daniela Jiménez

Laura Lausell

Félix McKenzie

Gonzalo Mora

Sophia Morales

Arturo Ortiz

Víctor Pagán

Carla Perdomo

María Quintana

Zuna Ramos

André Rivera

Diego Rodríguez

Gabriella Vélez

9th gradeRaúl Contreras

Nelson Cordero

Richard De Jesús

Ricardo Martínez

Martin Nazario

Marcos David Acevedo

10th gradeAmanda Acosta

Alexandra Benítez

Ana Bermúdez

Orlando González

María Gordon

Paola Hernández

Julianna La Lane

José Mercado

Marina Mundo

Cristina Tavera

Estefanía Trinidad

6th gradeRossana Berríos

Maya Blease

María Ferrer

Camila Flores

Jorge Hernández

Glenn Humbert

Gabriel Pavía

Sofía Rodríguez

Clara Tomé

7th gradeNatalia Bermúdez

Pablo Cabán

Marysol Fernández

Ana Melero

Giovanni Oliveras

Diego Peña

Alvaro Ramos

Emilio Rodríguez

Sarah Sanson

Frances Solero

8th gradePaola Casal

Julián Quiñones

Ella Scholz

Patricia Totti

Daniella Yu

GOLD

SILVER

1th gradeDaniela Canals

Gabriel Casal

Miguel Hernández

Michelle Hornedo

Alexandra Méndez

Natalia Ramírez

Ignacio Pérez

Marcela Pertusi

12th gradeLaila Crane

Francisco Oller

Luigi Santini

Fabiola Pagán

Lydwan Pérez

Daniel Rodríguez

Cristina Ranslem

11th gradeEugenio González

Sara Gabriela Rodríguez

12th gradeGustavo Mercado

Clarianne Moscoso

Cemil Revan

Adriana Reyes

Alejandro Zuñiga

cpss cene

P A G E S I X

Cemil Revan Purington 2012 U.S. Presidential Scholar

by Kathy Román, Director of Media

US Secretary of

Education, Arne

Duncan,

announced the

selection of Cemil RevanPurington, of Commonwealth-

Parkville School (CPS) as a 2012 U.S.President Scholar.

“Honoring Presidential Scholars is animportant celebration of students showingthe dedication, creativity and ambition tobecome future leaders”, Duncan said.

The White House Commission on

Presidential Scholars appointed by

President Obama selects honored

scholars annually based on their academic

success, artistic excellence, essays, school

evaluations and transcripts, as well as evi-

dence of community service, leadership, and

demonstrated commitment to high ideals.

Cemil, who will be attending Princeton

J U N E 2 0 1 2

2012 Employee of the YearEvelyn CollazoDirector of Middle and High School

Following 22 years of dedicated commitment as English teacher and

Director or Middle and High School, Evelyn Collazo is retiring at

the end of this academic year. She is bright, friendly, organized, hard-

working, conscientious, empathetic, is totally fluent in English and

Spanish, and has gained an impressive level of respect from faculty,

students, parents, administration and members of the Board of

Directors.

Having been selected as the 2012 Employee-of-the-Year at an

employee luncheon, Evelyn was additionally honored by our students

at a recent talent show competition. Evelyn has impressive ability to

”raise the bar” by setting high standards while simultaneously demon-

strating compassion and respect for various opinions engendering

confidence and appreciation among all constituents.

CPS is fortunate to have had the unparalleled leadership qualities of a

truly seasoned and sophisticated educator at the helm of the middle

and high school for the past five years. The entire CPS community

applauds her and wishes her a bright and enjoyable future with the

firm desire to see her on campus often.

University in the fall, is actively involved

in CPS’ renowned Heart for Haiti event,

and as Interact Club President. This

event has helped raise funds for Haiti and

the Matenwa Community Learning Center

for over 7 years. A very conscientious stu-

dent, Cemil has taken nine AdvancedPlacement (AP) classes offered by CPS,

excelling in all tests taken to date. He has

also been a member of the NationalHonor Society since 7th grade and an

energetic player in CPS’ varsity outdoor

soccer team.

Of the three million students expected to

graduate from high school this year, more

than 3,300 candidates qualified for the 2012

awards. The 2012 Presidential Scholars are

comprised of one young man and one

young woman from each state, the District

of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and from

U.S. families living abroad. Cemil is one of

141 outstanding high school seniors who

will be honored for their accomplishments

in an expense-paid trip to WashingtonD.C., from June 16-19.

To commemorate this major achievement,

each honoree will receive a

Presidential Scholars Medallion at

a ceremony sponsored by the White House

where they will meet government officials,

educators, authors, musicians, among other

accomplished people. The scholar, in turn,

also has the opportunity of honoring

his/her most inspiring and challenging

teacher at a special reception where the

educator will be presented with the

Teacher Recognition Award issued

by the US Department of Education. The

teacher chosen for recognition by Cemil is

Mr. Erik Rivera Marchand, a distin-

guished professional at

Commonwealth-Parkville School, who

passionately teaches history and is also a

CPS graduate, class of 1995.

J U N E 2 0 1 2 P A G E S E V E Ncpss cene

Daniel Rodríguez, Sophomore, chosen to participate in

Johns Hopkins University's Medical School Summer Programby Kathy Román, Director of Media

CPS is pleased to announce the 2012

Boys and Girls Indoor Soccer All-

Stars and All-Alliance award winners.

These players are nominated by their

coaches and selected by the PRHSAA

(Puerto Rico High School Athletic

Alliance) coaches.

All Stars represent be best 12 play-

ers in the division:

GIRLSMariana Camacho, class of 2015

Aryam Iglesias, class of 2014Paula Lugo, class of 2014

BOYSSebastián Colón, class of 2012

Ricky Dip, class of 2015Brian Healy, class of 2013

All Alliance represent the best

8 players in the division and are

selected from the All Star Team.

GIRLSMariana Camacho, class of 2015

Aryam Iglesias, class of 2014

BOYSSebastián Colón, class of 2012

Ricky Dip, class of 2015

Johns Hopkins University Medical School - Center Scholars Program

Commonwealth-Parkville School (CPS) sopho-

more Daniel Rodríguez Sanabria was

recently chosen to participate in The Center

Scholars Program designed by the Johns

Hopkins University (JHU) Medical School

Epigenetic Center in collaboration with JHU’s

Center for talented Youth (CTY). The Center

Scholars Program aims to provide academical-

ly gifted high school students a unique

opportunity to explore the field of Genome

Science in both a classroom and a research lab-

oratory setting.

After a rigorous application process, only 10

new students are accepted each year nation-

wide to this full scholarship program. Danny is

the only student from Puerto Rico in this

program.

The Center Scholars Program consists of three

consecutive summer sessions. This year, Danny

will begin studying genetics, next year

genomics, and in the third year, the program

culminates with a 6-week paid laboratory

internship conducting research at Johns

Hopkins Medical School. Last summer, Danny

attended CTY, where he completed a fast paced

high school biology class, also on a scholar-

ship.

Danny also participates regularly in the Puerto

Rico Math Olympics sponsored by the UPR

Mayagüez Campus, where he has consecutive-

ly – for the past two years- ranked in the top

1% of more than 5,000 contestants island-wide.

This competition seeks to identify and stimu-

late mathematical talent in Puerto Rico. He

just completed a 3-day Math Camp offered by

the PR Math Olympics to the top 50 students

in the competition.

UPR Math Olympics

Eagle Scout andmore...

As an Eagle Scout, the highest rankattainable in the Boy Scouting program, Danny has learned to work hard towards his goals and keep busy studying while challenging himself in a broad array of areas. He is active in sports, participating in the CPS basketball, cross-country, track and field, and baseball teams. He is the Band Club Representative in the CPS Student Council and a member of the National Honor Society.

Danny also enjoys playing the guitar and participating in school performances, and in a band outside of school called The Broadcast, which plays original songs.

This young man is involved in community service projects at Fundación Modesto Gotay, an institution for mentally impaired adults in Trujillo Alto, where he has conducted National Junior Honor Society projects for the pastthree (3) years.

CPS has made accommodations to suit Danny’s soaring academic needs, including currently taking AP Physics (online) and AP Calculus in 10th grade. Next academic year, he will be taking Calculus II and Calculus III at the Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico.

2012 Boys andGirls Indoor

Soccer All-Star and All-Alliance Award

Winnersby

Kathy Román, Director of Media

Ricky Dip, Mariana Camacho, Brian Healy, PaulaLugo, Aryam Iglesias and Sebastián Colón

J U N E 2 0 1 2 P A G E E I G H Tcpss cene

Headmaster’s Messageby F. Richard Marracino

Co-educational Benefits to Schooling

Parents naturally wish to protect their children---boys and girls--- from social and

emotional dangers and sometimes opt for a single-sex school. The idea in the minds

of some parents is that when children reach puberty, they are better off to avoid as

much contact as possible with the opposite sex at school so that they can concentrate

heavily on school matters, particularly when their hormones are raging out of control.

They believe that the mere presence of opposite sex students in the classroom pro-

vides distractions that otherwise would not occur in a single-sex environment. Yet, in

my opinion, the advantage of a coeducational environment is crystal clear.

There is considerable research on this controversial issue. The decision of which

type of school to place your child is a very personal one, but in my case I have

worked in both single-sex and coeducational schools and have seen firsthand the

advantages of the latter. And while there are perceived advantages to each, I firmly support coeducational

schools based on research, observations, and experiences with my two daughters:

• When boys and girls work together, they get to appreciate each other.

• A coeducational school better prepares its students for the “real world”.

• There is exposure to diverse lifestyles and values, male and female role models.

• Coeducation increases students’ potential to work in a team.

• Relationships between boys and girls are healthy, natural and normal.

• Evidence suggests that boys and girls do equally well academically in coeducational

environments.

• It is easier to plan for drama and musical productions, dances, bands, forensic competitions,

etc., when both boys and girls are readily available on campus.

• It teaches students to define sexual boundaries which they are likely to keep and practice

throughout their lives.

We at Commonwealth-Parkville School see students of both sexes positively interacting daily in classrooms, in

student council meetings, clubs and in all functions. They have the confidence to speak to each other in a pur-

poseful yet relaxed environment, with equal opportunity to participate in all activities. The one exception is

sports where boys and girls are separated. What is really important is that students are able to test their

impressions (as well as stereotypes) of the opposite sex and develop as well as change these impressions to

healthy levels. After all, if CPS’ mission is to prepare students for the 21st Century world, we should replicate

the real world at school as well!

cpss cene

P A G E N I N E

SalutatorianGustavo Mercado

Our 2012 Salutatorian, Gustavo is the Editor

of our Yearbook. His enthusiasm for our

school was reflected in everything he got

involved in. He surprised us this year by

taking on one of the lead roles in our spring

musical production The Sound of Music.

This demonstrates the multiple talents that

this young man has.

Gustavo was awarded at graduation the

Student-of-the-Year, recognizing him for

representing true all around student. He

was also awarded with the Director’s

Award. Gustavo received various awards at

the Academic Awards Ceremony, including

the Gold Honor Roll Medal and various

Academic Medals.

Gustavo is a hard working young man that

takes responsibility seriously, as well as in

all of his ventures. Gustavo is one of the

most mature, responsible student that we

have had on campus.

Gustavo exemplifies a true gentleman and

leader. A success story like him is what our

school community is all about. Gustavo

was accepted at Dartmouth University

where he will be attending this fall. He will

be missed because of his smile, his voice in

the morning announcements and most of all,

his love for our school.

ValedictorianCemil Revan

As our Interact Club President and mem-

ber of the Student Council, Cemil Revan

Purington is our 2012 Class Valedictorian.

He has been in charge of one of the

largest Community Service Initiatives

(Heart for Haiti) in which our school has

been involved. Besides presiding such

an influential club in our school commu-

nity, Cemil still finds the time to represent

our COMET colors in the Boys Varsity

Soccer Team. Recently, Cemil was hon-

ored with one of the most prestigious

awards that a student can receive:

Presidential Scholar. He will be travel-

ling in June to Washington D.C. to be

recognized by the President of the United

States.

At graduation, Cemil was awarded the

Silver Bowl Award; recognizing him as

one of the most well rounded students

that our school has ever had. At the

Academic Awards Ceremony, Cemil

received gold medals in all subject areas

including the gold honor roll medal.

Academically, Cemil is considered by the

faculty, one of the best students that has

been in our school. Cemil does not know

the meaning of challenge. To him, every-

thing comes natural and the challenges set

by institutions are just plain tasks that stu-

dents have to fulfill.

After receiving multiple offers from col-

leges and universities, Cemil has decided

to attend Princeton University in New

Jersey.

* TOP-RANK STUDENTS *of our Graduating Class of 2012

by Tere Durán, College & Guidance Counselor

Third Highest AverageClarianne Moscoso

Our graduation National Honor Society

Don Sebastian Fucile award recipient for

her excellence in work ethics for the NHS

Comet Chapter, Clarianne is the third

highest average of the senior class. She is

a recipient of the Gold Honor Roll Medal

for her academic excellence in her senior

year. As the President of the National

Honor Society and member of the Student

Council, Clarianne was involved in many

community service projects in which CPS

participated.

Through the years, Clarianne demonstrat-

ed her love for the arts. She has been

actively involved in the Drama Club and

this past spring she was the stage manager

for the Production of the “The Sound of

Music”.

Faculty and fellow students see her as one

to depend on academically and socially.

Clarianne is the type of student that has

an intelligence and social understanding

that inevitably brings success in chosen

life endeavors. Clarianne is considered to

be a very talented young woman with

extreme intellectual curiosity. She has all

of the components and factors to succeed

in anything she sets her mind to do. She

will be attending Haverford College in

Pennsylvania.

J U N E 2 0 1 2

cpss cene

P A G E T E N

“So long, farewell, it’s time to say goodbye …” Class of 2012

by

By Jo-Ann Aranguren

Director of Admissions, Alumni and Financial Aid

J U N E 2 0 1 2

On May 8, 2012, the CPS junior class hosted the Senior Farewell for the Class of 2012. “Bomb’s Scars” was a lavish extrava-ganza that resembled award ceremonies with the obligatory Red Carpet.

Congratulations to the Class of 2013 for your hard work in preparing such an ingenious and sophisticated activity, which will be dif-ficult to surpass in years to come. Technology was brilliantly put to work, as the activity was transmitted live in all Commonwealth’scampus computers. Definitely, this year’s Senior Farewell was very well organized and refined.

Kevin Rosario and Claudia Vélez performed as presenters, and seniors had the opportunity to express their gratitude andlove toward their teachers, peers, and friends. Emotions and tears flowed during the activity, as students recalled memories of theiryears at CPS. One of the highlights of the activity was a video presentation of the teachers with anecdotes and endearing experi-ences about each member of the class. Once again, you can feel the dedication and commitment of our faculty, which is an essentialcomponent in educating well-rounded students.

High school graduation is indeed a crucial step toward new achievements, goals and adulthood, and presents great challenges as wellas big satisfactions along the way. We will miss you very much, but rest assured that I will put forth all my efforts so that you con-tinue linked to your school through the Alumni Department.

It gives me great satisfaction to witness the love and emotion our students express toward CPS. I hope to stay in touch with all of

you! My best wishes to the Class of 2012, and continue shinning as you pursue your goals.

ONCE A COMET, ALWAYS A COMET!

Monsita Rivera Marchand was born on August 24, 1967 in Brooklyn, New York to her parents Monserrate Marchand and

Heriberto Rivera. Monsita attended Public School 119 in Brooklyn, New York until the 5th grade when she moved with her parents

and two brothers, Bert and Erik to Guaynabo, Puerto Rico. She arrived at Parkville School for the 6th grade and graduated from

Commonwealth High School, Class of 1985.

As class president, Monsita graduated with honors, as Valedictorian, and recipient of the Citizenship Award. She was accepted

at Yale University in New Haven, CT and graduated with a Bachelors Degree in liberal arts and sciences, majoring in philosophy.

During her time at Yale she worked as an assistant to the Yale College Deans Office assigned to the ‘Casa Julia de Burgos” and

played on the Yale Volleyball Team. After college she worked as an assistant in communications for the Governor’s Office, and

later attended law school.

While pursuing her law degree in the Inter American University School of Law she worked in Vargas & Ramírez LawFirm, and was elected to the Student Academic Senate. During that time she actively participated as a recruiter for the YaleUniversity Admissions Office. Monsita graduated Law School Magna Cum Laude and received Honors for High DistinguishedAchievement in Constitutional Law. Her work experience includes working as a law clerk in the Supreme Court of Puerto Rico,Special Assistant to the Chief Justice, Director of Legal Division at the Treasury Department of Puerto Rico and later was assignedto the Governors Legal Advisors Office.

In January 2005 she was sworn in as Municipal Court Judge. Since January 2007 she has served as a Superior CourtJudge assigned to both civil and criminal court. Now Judge Rivera-Marchand is active in the Judicial Academy for continued educa-tion. She has been a mentor to newly appointed judges, has given seminars and actively participates with law school students inlaw clinics and legal workshops. She is happily married to Angel Emilio Rodríguez and proud mother of two CPS studentsEmilio and Daniel who keep her quite busy in her favorite role as a faithful Soccer Mom!

2012 GRADUATION GUEST SPEAKER

Honorable Judge Mrs. Monsita Rivera-Marchand

cpss cene

P A G E E L E V E NJ U N E 2 0 1 2

BRIDGE CROSSING CEREMONYby Judith Rivera, Upper Elementary School Director

The Caparra Country Club was the setting for the Sixth Grade Bridge Crossing Ceremony on the morning of May 30th. The

“Salón Ponce de León” was beautifully decorated in yellow and white accessories. The flower arrangements were composed of

orchids, lilies, baby’s breath and hydrangeas.

A welcome message was delivered by Judith Rivera, Upper Elementary Director, followed by an invocation by the student

Maria Díaz. Our Headmaster, Richard Marracino delivered a message highlighting all of the exciting classes and activities

that the students can be a part of when at the CHS campus.

Certificates of Completion of Sixth Grade were given to each student by the directors and sixth grade teachers. Each student

crossed the bridge and were welcomed on the other side by Evelyn Collazo, CHS Director, and Edmundo Báez, Dean of

Students. Mrs. Collazo encouraged the students to participate in the varied activities at the CHS campus and congratulated them

for their accomplishments. A reception was held following the ceremony.

Parkville Campus Award Ceremony - 2011-2012

On the morning of May 25th, the fifth and sixth grade students were recognized for their accomplishments in the academic and

non academic courses taken during the 2011-2012 school year. The ceremony took place at the CHS campus in front of a very

large audience of students and parents. Mr. Marracino addressed and congratulated all of those in attendance. Mrs. JudithRivera served as the master of ceremonies while the teachers took turns handing out the certificates.

We are very proud of our student’s accomplishments and encourage them to continue working towards achieving higher goals.

“No student ever attains very eminent success by simply doing what is required of him: it is the amount and excellence of whatis over and above the required that determines the greatness of ultimate distinction.”

- Charles Kendall Adams

First row (front): Arianna Arrroyo, Andrea Acebal, Rossana Berríos,María Ferrer, Clara Tomé Second Row: María Díaz, Camila Flores, Lauren Guerrero, Camelia Colón,Sofía Rodríguez, Andrea Rodríguez, Guillermo Socorro, Antonio López, JoséRodríguez, Diego Castiel, Jaime PavíaBack : Julio Alejandro, Diego Medina, Gabriel Antomattei, Leandro Goicoechea,Alfonzo Hernández, Daniel Rodríguez, Raúl De Pedro, Jorge Hernández,Lorenzo Diaz, Yariana Pino, , Glenn Humbert, Carlos Quiñones, Juan Rosario,Carlos Riestra, Gabriel San Miguel, Adrian Tirado, Gabriela Torrellas, StephenSoriano, Bryan De Villiers, Marcos Vento, Richard Coll, Sebastian Olivera, Noelde León, Edwin González, Diego McElroy, Adonis Snowden, Maya Blease,Estela Moreno Not in picture: Luis García, Patrizia Sanchez, Sofia Serrano, Erika Herger, JoseRamirez, Katrina Ursino.

Judith Rivera, Sonia Colón, Valerie Fleming, Beatrice Parga,Danitzia Delgado, Evelyn Collazo, Edmundo Báez

cpss cene

P A G E T W E L V E

8th Grade Graduation – Class of 2016by Jessica Morell, Class Advisor

The commencement exercises for this

year’s 8th grade class took place on May

31st at the Bellas Artes Center in

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico. Ms. TereDurán honored us by serving as the

Mistress of Ceremony. The graduation

began at 10:00 am with the procession of

the graduates. Camila Vilá, the vice

president of the class, presented both the

US and Puerto Rican national anthems on

her violin. Miss Pauleen Diamondfollowed the anthems with a powerful

invocation.

Uzcategui, Carmencita Torres,Mona Kenderish, and Miriam Matos.

Mrs. Carrie Newdall presented the

medals to the National Junior Honor

Society members for their high scholastic

and character achievements. These students

were: Paola Casal, Pauleen Diamond,Andrea Figueroa, Mariola Franco,Sofía Hernández, Paola Jiménez,Regina Marrero, Roberto Rivera,David San Miguel, Ella Scholz,Patricia Totti, Camila Vilá, and

Daniella Yu.

CPS since PPK – 1st grade. They were:Laura Rivera, Roland Lugo, PauleenDiamond, Jan Torres, Agusto Pérez,Mariola Franco, Julian Vigil, WilliamColl, Olivia Esparza, Paola Casal,Regina Marrero, José Rodríguez,Angela Ursino, Boyd Blakeman,Isabella Cortés, Ricardo Agudo,Paolo Cintrón, and Julian Quiñones.

Finally, we arrived at the much awaited pre-

sentation of the diplomas. Our headmaster,

Mr. F. Richard Marracino, and our middle

and high school director, Ms. Evelyn

Collazo, presented the diplomas to the grad-The 8th grade class dedicated

their graduation to Mrs.Jessica Morell and Mr.Albert Muñiz, who have

served as their advisors for the

past year. Annalee Herger,Ella Scholz, Patricia Totti,Daniella Yu, and JuliánVigil presented the advisors

with plaques to commemorate

the dedication.

The Scholastic Awards were given to the

three students with the highest academic

grade point averages. In first place was

David San Miguel. In second place was

Paola Jiménez and in third place was

Ella Scholz.

Albert Muñiz presented this year’s Comet

Spirit Award to a very deserving PaolaCasal, the 8th grade class representative.

Mr. Edmundo Báez then presented the

Athlete-Scholar Awards to PaolaJiménez and David San Miguel.

Every year the entire faculty chooses one

student from each graduating class as

“Student of the Year”. Miss Ella Scholzwas presented with the honor. The Fidelity

Awards were presented by Mrs. MonseRivera to students who have attended

each class. This year’s graduating class offi-

cers were: Paola Casal (class representative),

Sofía Hernández (treasurer), Ella Scholz(Secretary), Camila Vilá (Vice-President),

and Paola Jiménez (President). Our com-

mencement exercises ended with an

inspirational song (Unwritten), performed by

Laura Rivera, Camila Vilá, and PaolaJiménez, and the recessional.

Congratulations to the Eighth Grade Class of 2016!

uating class.

To conclude this part of the ceremony, Mr.

Marracino declared the class as graduated.

The class president, Paola Jiménez, led

the class in moving their tassels before

giving the President’s speech.

A moment was given to recognize the class

Our Commonwealth-Parkville

Headmaster, Mr. F. RichardMarracino, had the audience and stu-

dents alike entertained with the results of

the 8th grade survey during the

Headmaster’s Message. Ms. EvelynCollazo, our middle and high school

director, followed with a thought-provok-

ing and inspiring message directed

towards our graduates.

All of the teachers for the 8th grade,

including their 7th grade teachers, were

recognized with gifts presented by the stu-

dents for their hard work throughout the

past two years. The class then recognized

thirteen very special parents who have

dedicated extra time and effort to the

class: Kelli Killingsworth, LilianColon, Sylvette Nazario and JesusCasal, Glendaly Munoz andFernando Jiménez, AnnetteFranke, Adaris Perez and JavierRivera, Yadira Cordero, MichelleRamirez and Jose Franco, Gisela

J U N E 2 0 1 2

The much awaited awards fol-

lowed the NJHS pins. The

Leadership Award and the

Citizenship Award were both

presented to Paola Jiménez,

the 8th grade class president.

officers’ hard work throughout

the year. These students carry the

responsibility of working hand in

hand with the class advisors in

organizing events, attend activi-

ties, create a bond among

students, communicate with

parents, and direct the destiny of

cpss cene

P A G E T H I R T E E N

SENIOR CLASS OF 2012 by Ingrid Otero, Class Advisor

The Commencement Exercises for CHS

Class of 2012 were held at the Alejandro

“Junior” Cruz Fine Arts Center, Guaynabo,

Puerto Rico, May 31. After the processional,

Maricelis Galanes and Adriana Reyessang the national anthems and Class Vice-

President Francesca Carroll read the

invocation. The welcome speech by

Salutatorian Gustavo Mercado empha-

sized the qualities that his experiences as a

Parkville-Commonwealth student have

ingrained in him.

Ms. Tere Durán, Mistress of Ceremony,

introduced senior Gerardo Rentas who

emotively dedicated the graduation to Mr.Noel Rivera, their class advisor since the

eighth grade. CPS Headmaster RichardMarracino gave a brief message and intro-

duced Monsita Rivera, Class of 1985,

who proceeded to give her speech and sur-

prised everybody by calling her brother,

Eric Rivera, Class of 1995, to conclude the

Guest Speaker message. Both exhorted the

class to face the world with clear vision,

courage, and passion. Mr. Marracino then

proceeded to recognize MalikaFlannagan as National Merit Scholar and

Cemil Revan as Presidential Scholar.

Ms. Evelyn Collazo gave a heart-felt,

inspiring speech to the last CHS class she

will address as teacher, mentor, and director.

The seniors then recognized parents and fac-

ulty who have helped them accomplish their

goals as a class and as students.

Our students’ achievements were recognized

next.

STUDENT OF THE YEARGustavo Mercado

COMET PILLAR AWARDGabriela Acebal

YEARBOOK AWARDGustavo Mercado

Adriana Reyes

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETYJulia Toro, Clarianne Moscoso,

Gustavo Mercado, Gabriela Acebal,Wendy Figueroa, Diego San Miguel,Cemil Revan, Alejandro Sánchez,Alejandro Zuñiga, Claudia Bosch,Amandla Colón, Adriana Reyes,

Matías Rosner, Luigi Santini, LauraColón, Michelle Freeman, FranciscoOller, Stephanie Hornedo, Kimberly

Veliz, Rafael Lastra, FrancescaCarroll

DON SEBASTIAN FUCILE NATIONALHONOR SOCIETY AWARD

Clarianne Moscoso Adriana Reyes

IVAN SEVILLANO CITIZENSHIPAWARD

Adriana Reyes

LEADERSHIP AWARDGabriela Acebal

SCHOLASTIC AWARDCemil Revan

DIRECTOR’S AWARDFrancisco Oller

Gustavo Mercado

MARIE CURIE AWARD FOREXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE

Stephanie Hornedo

COMET SPIRIT AWARDJulia Toro

ART MEDAL and FRAN CERVONIBRENES ART AWARD

Sebastian Mundo

J U N E 2 0 1 2

SCHOLAR-ATHLETE AWARDJulia Toro

Diego San Miguel

PREMIO DE CREACION LITERARIAEDWIN REYESAmandla Colón

FIDELITY PINSFrom PPK: Joel Ramos, ClaudiaBosch, Diego San Miguel, LailaCraneFrom PK: Felipe Ortiz, AndrésRomero, Kimberly Veliz, MiguelTorresFrom K: Lucas Carus, SebastianMundo, Alejandro Sánchez,Gustavo Mercado, ClarianneMoscoso, Joel Rosario, AndrésCastiel, Nicole Orsini, SkylarEsparza, Bryanna LealFrom 1st grade: Gerardo Rentas,Sebastian Rivera, RafaelRodríguez-Ema, Gabriela Acebal

SILVER BOWLCemil Revan

Ms. Ingrid Otero told the class that,

like Don Quijote, they should “follow that

star/No matter how hopeless, no matter

how far/And to fight for the right without

question or pause/To be willing to march

into hell for a heavenly cause” (Man of LaMancha). After the diplomas, the Class

Officers were recognized for their

excellent job: President: AlejandroZuñiga; Vice-President: FrancescaCarroll; Secretary: Kristian García;

Treasurer: Felipe Ortíz; Representative:

Kimberly Veliz, who was also recog-

nized for her work beyond her assigned

duties. The Class President’s speech

emphasized what the class has learned in

their years together at CHS and how it can

help them achieve their goals in the hard

times ahead. Valedictorian Cemil Revan

concluded the spoken part of the ceremo-

ny by addressing the question “Why

Commonwealth?” to which his accom-

plishments as a student and human being

within this nurturing environment are the

answer. The afternoon ended with senior

Chiara Vantagiatto’s piano perfor-

mance and the much awaited and emotive

Senior Video. Photo by Kathy Román

cpss cene

P A G E F O U R T E E NJ U N E 2 0 1 2

“The Scholarship Program Fundraising Event”CPS Golf Tournament 2012

by: Lily Ruiz

On Friday, March 16, 2012 Bahia Beach

Resort and Golf Club in Río Grande was

the setting for the CPS 17th Scholarship

Fundraising Golf Tournament. And what a

setting indeed! A beautiful day with blue

skies and a refreshing breeze received our

85 players.

They were treated to our always faithful

SUBWAY morning sandwiches, GUSTOS

coffee, SUIZA DAIRY juices and danishes

plus the new addition to the morning

delights, CREPE MAKER crepes! Out on

the course next to the “Beach Club Hut” a

juicy and tasty “Lechón a la Varita” donat-

ed by Angel Pérez, father of Valeria in PK,

greeted our players accompanied by

Absolut Vodka, Budweiser, Pepsi and Black

Label.

The banquet and awards ceremony was

held at Bahia’s Golf Club Molasses

Restaurant. Volunteers from the Parent

Association, student body, scholarship pro-

gram and CPS staff gave a warm welcome

to all. Our participants enjoyed a savory late

lunch and a fun-filled raffle with prizes for

everyone.

We take this opportunity to commend our

“Father and Son” teams: Mitchell & PhilipMatundan, José León & José León, Jr.,Jorge Rivera & Jorge Rivera, Jr., Luis& Daniel Quijano as well as our alumnus

Jorge Colón partnering up with student José

Diaz. CPS would love to see many more

father & son, father & daughter, mother &

son or mother & daughter teams!!! This

event, in its 17th edition, is a true family

affair.

Alumni, parents of alumni, sponsors, stu-

dents and parents keep joining us year after

year. Their commitment to helping us offer

an education of excellence is deeply

engrained at CPS.

This year the Golf Tournament Committee

was composed by a most dynamic group.

Without them we could not have accom-

plished such a successful event. They are:

José Leónfather of José 10th, Gabriel 7th

Francisco Ramirezfather of Francisco 4th, Sebastián 2nd

Miguel Colónfather of Laura & Sebastián 12th

María Cabreramother of José Carlos Rios 11th

Ricky Rosario father of Andrés PKJosé A. La Lane

father of Julianna 10th, Alana 7thAngel Pérez, father of Valeria PK

Michelle Yegrosmother of Gabriella Mullet 3rd,

Evan Mullet 1st

THANK YOU ALL!!!

Our sponsors are one of our most valuable

contributors and we salute them for their

commitment and support!

CALLAWAY

First Place - Hector Chévere

Carlos Lavergne

Second Place - Alfredo Firpi

Ricky San Miguel

Third Place - Carlos Buxó

Diego Martin

FINAL RESULTS

FATHER & SON

First Place - Jorge Colón & Jorge Díaz

Second Place - José León & José León, Jr.

Third Place - Jorge Rivera & Jorge Rivera, Jr.

NETFirst Place - Antonio Castillo

Emilio Colón

Second Place - Jorge Fernández

Pedro Encarnación

Third Place - Héctor Sánchez

Michael Pérez

Mark your calendars for next year! Friday, March 15, 2013…See you at Bahia!!!

GROSSFirst Place - Adriano Valle

William Rodríguez

Second Place - Juan Carlos Méndez

Juan Botello

Third Place - Nelson Flores

Manuel Gómez

cpss cene

P A G E F I F T E E NJ U N E 2 0 1 2

José Lalane and Richard Marracino

Dr. Miguel Colón

Aleida Mora, Lily Ruiz, Brenda López===========and Diana de Jesús

José Díaz

Father & son; Philip and Mitchell Matundan

Father & Son; José León Sr. and José León, Jr.Father & Son; Daniel Quijano and Luis

A. Quijano

Pedro Encarnación, Jorge Hernández, AngelRodríguez, and Reynaldo Aponte

Brenda Santos, M. Luisa Alvarez, Virginia Vidaland Tere Silva

Richard Marracino and Francisco RamírezRichard Marracino and Ricky Rosario

Steven Yiu and Marcos MazzaJosé Díaz, Jorge Rivera, Jr., and José León, Jr.

Trophies and Awards Table

cpss cene

P A G E S I X T E E N

COMMONWEALTH-PARKVILLE SCHOOLOperated by Caribbean Consolidated Schools, Inc.PO BOX 70177SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO 00936-8177

Commonwealth-Parkville School is an equal opportunity employer. It is operated on a non-sectarian basis, without discrimination based on race, color,religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, or political belief.

August 10Orientation 7th grade and new CHS students

August 13CHS First Day of Classes

August 20Orientation for PKS parents

August 21PKS First Day of Classes

J U N E 2 0 1 2

Commonwealth-Parkville School Gratefully Acknowledge Our Corporate Sponsors:

SUMMER:In our efforts to go green and reduce costs, we will do all of our communications through e-mail or the

website. All the summer mailing information for the beginning of the year and forms that you need to hand in must be download-ed from our website: www.cpspr.org. Go to the Re-enrollment Tab on the left and enter into “Beginning of the Year Forms” for

CHS or PKS Campus accordingly. Should you have any questions, please call Diana Morales at 787 765-4411 ext 242.

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

NON PROFIT ORGUS POSTAGE PAID

SAN JUAN PRPERMIT NO. 747