Back To School Information (2025-26 School Year)

June 2025

Dear Chaminade Parents,

Summer is in full swing here at Chaminade! We are excited to have over 1,200 students participating in our Summer Academy this year. The program runs throughout the summer, offering a wide range of enrichment opportunities. One of the most popular new additions has been our Fishing Camp—an exciting and well-received experience for students. The Academy will conclude with our annual Study Skills Camp, designed to prepare students for the academic year ahead. This camp focuses on study strategies, time management, and organization—essential tools for student success.

The 2025–2026 school year will be one of exciting transitions in several leadership roles at Chaminade. We are pleased to share the following updates:

• Mr. Eric Burdge ’89 will serve as our new Associate Principal for Student Formation (Discipline) in the high school.
• Mr. Kevin Wehner will be stepping into the role of Athletic Director.
• Mr. Tom Fernandez will continue supporting Kevin in this transition and will then move into a new role as Director of Campus Planning and Development.
• Dr. Dan Karcher will transition to Director of Campus Ministry.
• Mr. Erik Carretero returns to Chaminade to lead our Admissions Office as Director of Enrollment Management.

In addition, Dr. Brett Desnoyer will assume the role of Vice Principal and work closely with Mr. Rone in preparation for his future role as High School Principal for the 2026–2027 school year. Our shared goal is to ensure a smooth and seamless transition, preserving the excellence of Chaminade’s educational experience. This intentional process will allow for the thoughtful exchange of knowledge and leadership as we move forward.

We are also thrilled to welcome new faculty and staff members to our community. Their diverse talents and enthusiasm will enrich our school culture and academic programs:

• Mr. Gage Brown – Band
• Ms. Beth Buchek – Campus Ministry and Theology
• Mr. Travis Cairer – Physical Education
• Mrs. Tiffany Emge – High School Administrative Assistant
• Dr. Kryss Erickson – Physics
• Mr. Allen Ernst – Physical Science
• Mr. Jonathan Halfmann – Campus Ministry
• Dr. Colin Hanna – Physical Education
• Mrs. Kristen Haynes – Business Office
• Mr. Connor Kohlschreiber – Physical Education
• Ms. Zellie Laury – Art
• Ms. Roberta Montella – Spanish
• Mr. Steven Notestine – English
• Ms. Mary Pat Skouby – Math
  
  

We look forward to the energy and creativity these educators will bring to our campus.

In terms of policy updates, we have revised the cell phone policy for our incoming 9th-grade students to align with the current middle school policy that was implemented last year. As students progress through grade levels, we will gradually extend this policy into high school. Details specific to the freshman class will be communicated prior to the start of school.

Over the summer, our facilities team has been hard at work enhancing our campus. Parking areas are being resurfaced where needed, and we are upgrading the air conditioning units as needed. In the Skip Viragh Center for the Arts, the Little Theater will receive new lighting rigs, and the main theater will be outfitted with updated equipment throughout.

As we prepare for the upcoming school year, it is important that every member of our community has the information needed for a smooth start. Please refer to the school website for updates, resources, and important dates.

On behalf of the entire administration, faculty, and staff, we look forward to welcoming your son back to campus on the first day of school, Tuesday, August 19th.

Yours in the Marianist Spirit,

Philip G. Rone
Principal

Jack M. Twellman
Middle School Principal

Dr. Brett P. Desnoyer
Vice Principal