Why Holy Cross?
Personal testimonials by my students
HC 4 U
Presented by Ms. Byrnes English Department
Teacher 1980 to present
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE STUDENTS' THOUGHTS ABOUT THEIR SCHOOL
Culture vibes through the hallways at Holy Cross. Every person from whatever ethnicity, background, or belief has a place here. You can be whomever you want here and will find your place amongst this welcoming family. For this reason you belong here at Holy Cross High School.
Holy Cross is for the well rounded students, for the nerds, for the athletes, for the artists, for the theatre kids, for absolutely everyone. I am certain with every ounce in my body that everyone does belong at Holy Cross because everyone deserves a chance to feel recognized, important, educated, encouraged, supported, and happy.
Overall, Holy Cross was a huge and influential stepping stone for me. It helped me open myself up and explore new things. It helped me to properly prepare myself for my future outside of Holy Cross in college and even in my future job. I may leave Holy Cross, but Holy Cross will never leave me.
Holy Cross is a place where students and teachers gather together to expand their educational knowledge and share their insights of the world. It is much more than a school filled with intelligent young minds, but it is a place where as a new student you are welcomed. In addition students are taught by experienced faculty who are always there to assist a student with their studies if they need it. Holy Cross offers so much to incoming freshman and transfer students. As a community we hope to see your son or daughter here for the upcoming school year.
The beauty of Cross is that it is a small school, so you know EVERY PERSON in your year, and the teachers know you by name--YOU ARE NOT A NUMBER. Holy Cross has integrated technology throughout the curriculum, teaching students the skills they need to know in our evolving world, readying them for the world ahead. Holy Cross has given me the opportunity to succeed and the means to be a leader of the future.
Holy Cross is a wonderful environment to be around every day! Even though the students learn a lot each day, the teachers always find ways to make learning a lot of fun. I'm so happy I chose Holy Cross as my high school because I belong here. There was no other better choice for me.
Holy Cross offer many opportunities for the students and their families. Holy Cross is a high school where it is easy to be involved. Holy Cross really prepares it students for college and beyond.
Holy Cross gives you a wide variety of different learning choices that helps you benefit in the way that you want. What makes Holy Cross different from other schools is the freedom you are granted.
Holy Cross is a special school that strives for success in every student. If you are willing to work hard and succeed, then Holy Cross is the way to go.
Anyone is welcome at Holy Cross. Although it is a Catholic school, there is no discrimination of religion, ethnicity, or anything! Our school motto applies for every incoming freshman or even anyone interested in attending Holy Cross: You belong here!
What does HC have to offer a prospective student?
High school is the basic stepping stone to preparing for college. When my parents gave me the option of going to my public school or going to Holy Cross, I wanted to be able to weigh the pros and cons of each. I came to the open house at Holy Cross and toured around, and then I eventually signed up to shadow a student. I followed the sophomore around the school, and I remember thinking how much different it was from walking around my middle school every day. I felt so welcomed when I was introduced to everyone, and I imagined myself walking the hallways.
The first day of school for freshman orientation was one of the most nerve wracking days of high school because I knew close to no one that would be going to Holy Cross. But that turned out to not be a problem, because I met my best friends of four years that very first day. I was accepted into the community of Holy Cross and soon realized how different it was from middle school, not just socially but academically. The teachers and the guidance counselors were always available and willing to talk further about school work and college preparation.
Overall, Holy Cross was a huge and influential stepping stone for me. It helped me open myself up and explore new things. It helped me to properly prepare myself for my future outside of Holy Cross in college and even in my future job. I may leave Holy Cross, but Holy Cross will never leave me.
By Gabi K.
A recent letter from a senior student:
Dear Ms.Byrnes and Sister Bernadette,
I recently shadowed at Hofstra University, and wanted to inform you that in one of the classes that I attended they used the same resources that we use here.
I was so delighted sitting in the class, able to recognize what the professor was talking about.
They used the Perdue Writing Lab, which, you, Ms.Byrnes, have showed us multiple times during class, as well as their own branch of bibme.org, which you introduced us to in class and had us use as well. The database that they use is Ebsco, the same database, you, Sister Bernadette, familiarized us to during trips to the media center to research and complete papers.
I felt very confident and comfortable in class because I understood what was being discussed, rather than feeling awkward and out of place in an otherwise unfamiliar setting. Thank you, both so much, I now truly feel ready to move into my college career which is fast approaching!
By Emma V.
Holy Cross is a place where students and teachers gather together to expand their educational knowledge and share their insights of the world. It is much more than a school filled with intelligent
young minds, but it is a place where as a new student you are welcomed. Distinguishing itself from other schools, Holy Cross has a one to one PC tablet program, competitive sports, and is on college block scheduling--qualities that you will not be able to find at other high schools such as Bishop Eustace or Paul VI. In addition students are taught by experienced faculty who are always there to assist a student with their studies if they need it.
Every year people spend hundreds of dollars buying school supplies that are eliminated
through the use of a tablet PC. Each grade is given a computer that is the student’s to keep throughout their enrollment at Holy Cross. It can be used to take notes, rather than having to write out
information on the traditional notebook.
Classes at Holy Cross are not forty-five minutes long, as it is in most other schools. Instead each class is around an hour and ten minutes, allowing for teachers to speak more in-depth about
information pertaining to a class. In a typical day you have only four classes. In the course of a year, you will take eight classes that will be divided into semester 1 or semester 2. Students often "double up" on their subjects or in other words take two Math classes, two English classes, or two Science classes, whatever the case may be. In your senior year this pays off because you can take all electives.
Other than academics, Holy Cross offers a variety of clubs to join and competitive athletics. The most popular clubs that people join are the Alternate Activities Club, Special Olympics Club, and Key Club are among the many clubs that are popular with students. The soccer and basketball team this past 2013-2014 school year has won titles in their divisions against schools in South Jersey.
Holy Cross offers so much to incoming freshman and transfer students. As a community we hope to see your son or daughter here for the upcoming school year.
By Kathleen Y.
I chose Holy Cross High School because I knew that there would be no other place where I could thrive the way I have over the past four years. My going to Cross came as sort of a surprise to my family, since my father had attended Bishop Eustace and my best friend would be going there as well. I was excited for Eustace, but for some reason Holy Cross caught my attention, and when I shadowed, I encountered teachers that were truly involved with their students, and a sense of community that welcomed me with open arms. The beauty of Cross is that it is a small school, so you know EVERY PERSON in your year, and the teachers know you by name--YOU ARE NOT A NUMBER.
Holy Cross has integrated technology throughout the curriculum, teaching students the skills they need to know in our evolving world. With a collegiate "block" schedule, students experience the same scheduling system they will encounter in college, readying them for the world ahead. Holy Cross has given me the opportunity to succeed, and the means to be a leader of the future.
By Mike B.
Holy Cross is a great Catholic High School for students in South Jersey to attend, learn about their religious faith, and receive a quality education. Holy Cross has over fifteen sports and many different
activities for the students to participate in such as Key Club, ATC Club, Special Olympics, and Spanish Club. As a student, you can take advancement placement, honors, and college prep. Students can also take courses at Holy Cross that will count as college credits.
Each student is required to volunteer their time. Holy Cross also offers each student a laptop so that they can take notes on. There are also many dances that students can go to that are so much fun!
Holy Cross is a great high school with an outstanding reputation not only for the students but also for their families. There are a lot of family functions to go to.
So far as a freshman, my experience at Holy Cross has been great and so much fun. I have gone to all the dances and social events with my friends. I made a lot of new friends at Holy Cross, and I seriously can't wait to make more in my future years. I have loved my experience so far at Holy Cross with all my new teachers and great friends. I can't wait for the next 3 1/2 years at Holy Cross and to make more lasting memories with my friends.
Holy Cross is a wonderful environment to be around every day! Even though the students learn a lot each day, the teachers always find ways to make learning a lot of fun. I'm so happy I chose Holy Cross as my high school because I belong here. There was no other better choice for me.
By Julia K.
Where you go to high school is often a big and difficult decision, and although I could give you facts and information on the types of clubs, activities or sports offered here at Holy Cross, I believe my best benefit could be by giving you an honest and sincere opinion on how Holy Cross has changed my life, my perceptive, and attitude. Coming from the small town of Medford with very little experience with diversity, Holy Cross allowed me to open and expand my mind to the endless possibilities life has to offer.
Instead of being in a small community, I experienced all types of diversity and thrived in it. For example, our school provides foreign exchange for students from all over including China and South Korea. Adding their culture and traditions has allowed all of our students to experience life beyond their American culture. In addition to that students come from all different towns in South Jersey contributing their traditions, opinions, and beliefs to Holy Cross.
For me personally, Holy Cross has given me the opportunity to become culturally influenced in the Hispanic community. Throughout the past four years with help from the Spanish club, my Spanish teachers, and various students I have become proficient in Spanish helping me further relate with the Hispanic community. Our Spanish club has allowed our students to be involved with our community through volunteering as well as taking field trips to Hispanic festivals.
Culture vibes through the hallways at Holy Cross. Every person from whatever ethnicity, background, or belief has a place here. You can be whomever you want here and will find your place amongst this welcoming family. For this reason you belong here at Holy Cross High School.
By Kelsey A.
I can vividly remember the excitement and anxiety I felt when I was trying to decide on which high school to attend when I was in eighth grade. I came from a Catholic grade school, and I was trying to make an educated decision as to where I should spend the next four years. I was trying to decide between my town's public school high school, Bishop Eustace Prepatory, Nazareth Academy, and Holy Cross High School. I continuously asked my friends about their decisions and reviewed multiple situations within each school, trying to imagine myself walking down their hallways and sitting in their classrooms. I also stressed about not picking the right one and ultimately ruining my entire future, as well as other slippery slope situations that were blown out of proportion.
I picked Holy Cross High School because I valued the tradition, religion, work ethics, and environment and knew it was something I wanted to be a part of. Ever since I was a child, my mom continuously raved about the great times she had and the lifelong friends she made when she was a student at Holy Cross and that was something I wanted to be a part of as well. Coming from a Catholic background, the religion played a factor in my decision as well because I think that it is important to all individuals. I thought the laptops and the block
scheduling was basically the coolest thing I ever saw and was amazed by the work ethics the teachers seemed to have encouraged.
I believe the environment is what eventually won over my decision to go here. I am certain that Holy Cross breeds some of the greatest individuals there are. These students are people whose parents truly cared enough about their education to send them to a place that was not the easiest choice for them financially. To me, that says that the parents of these students care for their children, for their well being, and for their future. The students at Holy Cross, whatever difficulties they may have faced in the past, all grew up in a giving and supportive home environment. Not only that, but the students come from all over South
Jersey and beyond, and they are all able to share their differences and their ideas with others of different surroundings.
I completely reject the idea that Catholic schools are for rich and spoiled snobs, because that is the exact opposite of what Holy Cross is. Holy Cross is for the well rounded students, for the nerds, for the athletes, for the artists, for the theatre kids, for absolutely everyone. I am certain with every ounce in my body that everyone does belong at Holy Cross because everyone deserves a chance to feel recognized, important, educated, encouraged, supported, and happy.
By Emily F.
Holy Cross High School is a Catholic high school that offers many benefits to a student and their families. Holy Cross High School offers many different clubs, athletics, activities and events. Holy Cross offer block scheduling. Another great part of Holy Cross is how it offers the use of technology that many other schools do not do. Overall, Holy Cross is has many unique qualities.
There are so may ways to be involved at Holy Cross High School. It is very easy to join a club or a team. A lot of the clubs run doing the flex periods, which makes it more convenient to do different activities after school. There are a lot of sport teams to choose from. Holy Cross has a fall play and a spring musical for all the actors, dancers, and singers. Holy Cross also sets up so many events for the students and even the families to socialize at like the Frosh Social, Christmas at the Cross, Homecoming, Winter Formal, and Prom.
Another thing Holy Cross offers is the famous block scheduling. There is only four classes a semester but each class is twice as long. Many people get nervous about having a class so long, but the time goes by very fast. Block scheduling is also great because there is no worrying over having eight tests in one day. In the middle of the day, there is a one hour flex period where students eat their lunches, go to clubs or tutoring, and socialize with their peers and friends.
In addition to block scheduling, there is the highly practical use of technology. Students are given a laptop to use for their classes. Homework and class work is usually done on the laptop. There are programs on the laptop to make movies, powerpoints, documents, spreadsheets, and to take notes. The laptop can also access the internet so students can see their grades or go on moodle. The laptop can also be a tablet so students can actually use the pen to write on the screen.
In conclusion to, Holy Cross offer many opportunities for the students and their families. Holy Cross is a high school where it is easy to be involved. It offers block scheduling. The use of technology is very important at Holy Cross. Holy Cross really prepares it students for college and beyond.
By Rachel A.
Holy Cross gives you a wide variety of different learning choices that helps you benefit in the way that you want. What makes Holy Cross different from other schools is the freedom you are granted. Freedom is a very self responsive thing that you must take responsibility for.
So in Holy Cross it is up to you to take charge of that freedom, whether at flex it is talking to your friends or going to the classroom to get extra help.
The teacher is always there for you too, whenever you need help with something they always find time for you to take advantage of your education. One thing I love about the teachers is that they teach you in a way that works and clicks. All different people have different learning styles and the teacher adapts to that and helps you understand in your own way.
Holy Cross is a special school that strives for success in every student. If you are willing to work hard and succeed then Holy Cross is the way to go. Just remember,
"You belong here."
By Chris M.
Holy Cross provides a great educational and spiritual experience with a healthy learning environment. Being the only Catholic high school in Burlington County, it's great if you live in the area. We offer transportation through buses ranging from Delran to Marlton! There are different scholarships you can apply for including academic achievements and volunteer work. If your family is having money related issues, we provide financial aid.
To prepare for college, we use block scheduling. Instead of a normal high school with either seven or eight 45 minute classes, we have four classes a day that run for an hour and 15 minutes long. In the middle of the year, your first semester classes transition to the second. If you aren't a big fan of a certain class, look at it this way: you only have to take it for half a year!
Personally, my favorite aspect of Holy Cross is Flex time. This is a break between 2 and 5 block where you can buy lunch from the cafeteria, catch up on homework, go to club meetings, or even get tutoring from a teacher or student. I believe the flex program has helped me and many of my friends greatly with managing time and schoolwork.
Our foreign exchange student program takes kids from all around the world and houses them local to Holy Cross, where they are provided transportation and get to experience the life and education of Americans. When choosing classes, we have many to choose from. Our electives range from dance to forensic science and even acting! When you get to your junior and senior years, if you are eligible you can take more difficult classes that count for college credits. Along with these, we also offer Honors and Advanced Placement classes for those who are looking for a challenge.
Here at Holy Cross we have sports and service opportunities that you can do to make friends and find yourself. In the fall, we have ladies tennis, soccer,
football, field hockey, and cross country. Our winter sports include swimming, basketball, bowling, and ice hockey. Track, lacrosse, baseball, softball are our spring sports with cheerleading year round. For Holy Cross apparel, you can go to the Bookstore in the cafeteria during flex and purchase whatever you please!
As you can see, we have many things we offer and provide.
Anyone is welcome at Holy Cross. Although it is a Catholic school, there is no discrimination of religion, ethnicity, or anything! Our school motto applies for every incoming freshman or even anyone interested in attending Holy Cross: You belong here!
By Jaylyn B.
When looking at high schools, Holy Cross would be a very good choice to decide upon.
Not only does it provide a great education, but a great spiritual experience as well.
Since I started attending Holy Cross High School in the fall, I have realized that my work ethic and willingness to apply myself in classes has increased immensely. Before Holy Cross, it was difficult to do my homework and stay up to speed with all my classes. Here at Holy Cross, the block scheduling provides a much better understanding of each subject and it allowed for more focus in each class.
I also feel more educated in my Catholic faith and feel much closer to the church's teachings than I was before. The masses during school and the religion classes definitely make me feel more at one with God.
By Josie O'D.
If you are a young, Catholic student and you're looking for a high school to attend, Holy Cross High School is the school you're looking for. Holy Cross, HC for short, is truly the best high school in South Jersey, and I'm not only saying that because I go there.
HC offers something regular public schools don't offer: a chance to broaden your knowledge about God and Catholicism. In public schools, you're not even allowed to say God's name on the premises, but here at Holy Cross we pray six times a day: once before the day starts and before lunch, and most of the teaches start each block with a prayer. Notice how I said block, not period. Holy Cross offers block scheduling of courses. It is where you have 4 classes a semester and two semesters. You gain an extra course from block
scheduling because you end the year with 8 classes instead of a regular 7. Holy Cross not only offers you more on God, but on education as well.
As a student, you get a wireless tablet PC: a tablet that you bring to school every day, every block. You take notes on it, download books, make movies, download textbooks, and write homework for different courses. It is so much easier and more convenient than carrying around all these notebooks and textbooks and risk losing them.
Holy Cross offers you a chance to enlighten your mind in so many different ways other schools cannot. So if you are undecided as to where you want to spend your four years of high school, chose Holy Cross High School because you belong here.
By Kaitlin M.
What Holy Cross Has to Offer Students and Their Families
Holy Cross is a great school with a wonderful atmosphere. Thinking about attending high school is a scary thought. You are transitioning into adult hood. For most kids, you are going to a place where you do not know many people. Holy Cross helps students adjust to the high level of education in high school along with helping them adjust socially. Holy Cross is a well rounded place with well rounded students. They prepare kids for not only college, but for the rest of their lives.
Holy Cross runs a block schedule, just like colleges. Holy Cross gives each student a laptop so they can interact with the teachers in class and out of class. When a student is absent, they are able to receive all the notes they missed in class and the homework. Having access to the Internet during class time allows us to expand our knowledge and research new topics that we are discussing in class.
Holy Cross offers a ton of clubs to allow students to be involved in. If Holy Cross does not offer the club you are looking to be in, then you can easily start your own! Being involved in clubs allows students to have fun, make friends, and is a great thing for college applications! Also Holy Cross has a ton of sports. Everything from football to golf to tennis. As a school we encourage everyone to get involved whether it is being a player, manager, or a fan.
Holy Cross is a friendly environment where all the teachers know the students and all the students are friends. Holy Cross offers great support to not only students through extra help and one on one teaching, but to students' families. If a parent ever has a problem, the faculty and staff will
personally help the parents through problems and help resolve them in the best manner possible.
By Kelly R.
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