I want to thank our entire school community for all the support and sacrifice provided throughout this first semester. Without your selfless acts of kindness and compassion, we would not have the opportunity to celebrate all the amazing accomplishments, nor would we reach the levels of success that make us all so proud to be Explorers!

I am most impressed with the hard work and determination of our Marist Educators. I am inspired by their team efforts as we have achieved our goals and exceeded expectations! We are strong, loyal, and dedicated. It is the Marist spirit that drives our mission and encourages us to build relationships with one another. Together, we foster a culture of integrity, inclusion, discipline, and respect. As we begin a New Year and a new semester, may we remain resilient in our actions and steadfast in our faith!

May God continue to bless the Christopher Columbus High School community and protect us as we move forward...Adelante!

Coach Dunn and the Explorer Football Team did it again!  On December 8, 2023 the team defeated Jacksonville Mandarin with a score of 38 - 19 to claim the FHSAA 4M State Championship for a second year in a row and its third in the last five years. Congratulations to the Back to Back Champions! 

Tree Lighting with the Columbus Band & Carrollton Choir
This year our Tree Lighting Ceremony took place at beautiful Br. Eugene Plaza and once again featured Christmas music performed by the Columbus Band in partnership with the Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart Choir.  It was a wonderful opportunity for our Columbus community to gather together to celebrate Christmas.   We thank Columbus music director, Mr. Cooper, and Mr. Bradley Poore, Director of Performing Arts at Carrolton, as well as for the event organizers Mr. Ramos, Ms. Ramunas, Mrs. Cue, Ms. Vento, and our maintenance and technology departments. 

Congratulations to all the students who were honored for their outstanding achievements in the classroom, in competitions, and in the community at the Achievement Breakfast.  We are extremely proud of all of you! Special thanks to Dr. Vila and the academic administrative team.

 

Squires Brought Christmas Cheer to Underprivileged Children
Members of the Squires visited the Mision Nuestra Senora de Altagracia Corpus Chrisi Catholic Church in Allapattah to help spread Christmas cheer. In November, they were there again celebrating Thanksgiving with the community.  Special thanks to Br. Eladio and Mr. Lewis.

Senior Exchange Day with Carrollton
We held our first-ever Senior Exchange Day with Carrolton School of the Sacred Heart on December 1^st, hosted by SAC.  The Explorers who went to Carrollton had a great time while representing Columbus well and those who remained at Columbus with the ladies from Carrollton helped to give them a great impression of our school.  The ladies partook in enriching activities in our robotics lab, chapel, CCNN Studio, Esports Complex, science labs and art and music studios.  Special thanks to Mrs. Insua, Ms. D. Rodriguez, Mr. Cooper, Ms. Valdez, Ms. Aycart, Mr. Baez, Mr. Saavedra, Mr. E. Sanchez, Mr. Harriman, Mr. A. Rodriguez, Mr. Gomez, Mr. Ventura, Mrs. Yurubi, Mrs. Gonzalez-Rojas, Mrs. M. Romero, Gerry Gonzalez, and Br. Peter.

We collected over a thousand toys as part of the SAC Christmas Toy Drive. The toys have been donated to the Miami-Dade Police Department, Fight Like a Kid, and Hermanos de la Calle. Special thanks to Ms. Brown and Mrs. Alonso.

Columbus student Mario Villaverde formed Ausome Makers, a student group dedicated to providing robotics and STEM workshops to organizations serving children with special needs. In cooperation with the Ausome Foundation, the Columbus Ausome Makers provided their first workshop to the students at Golden Horizon Academy, a private school K-8 for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Mario and his classmate Andrew Vasta visited the school during their science fair for robotics demonstrations. Thank you, Mr. Armando Rodriguez.

All four of our robotics teams competed in the VEX Robotics Competition at South Dade High School against 47 teams from South Florida. Explorer 3 ranked 7th overall during the Tournament matches. Explorer 2 team ranked 8th out of 47 in the Skills Challenge. Thank you, Mr. Armando Rodriguez.

Explorers Visited the Courthouse
A group of Explorers attended a field trip to The Miami Dade County Courthouse where they met Judge Rebull '88. They were able to tour the courthouse and observe a civil trial in the midst of closing arguments. It was an amazing educational experience for our young men. Special thanks to Dr. Lee.

Holiday Concert
Mr. Cooper and the Columbus Band held their annual holiday concert in the cafeteria.  The talented musicians put everyone in the Christmas Spirit. 

 

Basketball Team Won over Prolific Prep in Season Opener
Opening night for the Columbus Basketball Team against California powerhouse Prolific Prep drew over 600 spectators.  The spectators included the basketball coaches from the University of Miami, Jim Larranaga, and the University of Kentucky, John Calipari.  The game was aired live by ESPN.  After trailing Prolific 67-58 with with 2 minutes left, the Explorers made a comeback win with a final score of  81-78. (photo courtesy of the Miami Herald).

Debaters Competed at the Isadore Newman Invitational
Debate competed at the 45th annual Isadore Newman Invitational in New Orleans which featured 534 competitors  from 12 different states. Taro Porschke finished in 2nd place (Novice Lincoln Douglas) and as the best speaker runner-up. In Varsity Lincoln Douglas, Matthew Moreno placed 2^nd for Top Speaker. Joseph Alonso and James Sacher finished 3rd in Varsity Public Forum, earning their 3rd bid to the Tournament of Champions. James earned 8th best speaker, while Joseph was rewarded Top Speaker overall. In Novice Public Forum, Ale Caram and Diego Gonzalez finished 2nd. Dante Vegliante and Tristan Handel finished with a 3-3 record. Dante finished as the 13th top speaker. In Impromptu Speaking, Sven Stumbauer and Nicholas Dominguez advanced to Semi-Finals while JP Martinez placed 6th.  Also, six debaters competed in the National Civics & Debate Championship and for being top finishers will receive an all-expense paid trip to Tallahassee for a private tour of the Capitol (Sven Stumbauer, Joseph Alonso, Martin Seals, Bruno Barreiro, Christian San Juan and Tristan Handal). Thank you Mr. de Tuya.

Signing Day Celebration with 15 Student-Athletes
We held a  signing day celebration for 15 student athletes who committed to play their sport in college. Football: Alberto Mendoza (Indiana University), Daylen Russell (University of Miami), Robert Williams (Florida International University), Jeff Bandy (Brown University), Willis McGahee (U.  of Nebraska), Dylan Stephenson (Stanford), Benjamin Blackburn (Stanford), Jose Leon (Appalachian State), Tristan Pineda (Tufts University), Cameron Pineda (Tufts University), Jason Ibarra (Trinity College); Track & Field:  Durian Moss (Florida State University); Cross Country: Alejandro Romagosa (University of North Florida); Wrestling: Anthony Piaia (Ottawa University).  Thank you Mrs. Marti.

Soccer is Having a Strong Season
The Varsity Soccer Team is having a strong season with big wins over Palmer Trinity, East Ridge, TERRA, and Ransom where the score was 4-1 and goals cameg from Javier Voigt (2) and Gabriel Leon (2).   Good luck to Coach Clark as they continue to play throughout the Christmas Break.

The Wrestling Team went 5-1 finishing as runner ups in the FHSAA District 15 Duals and advanced to the regional dual quarterfinals against South Dade High School on January 11^th. The team’s total record is 24-9. Thank you Coach Husk and Coach Grant.

Columbus Films Highlights Wrestling Program with Invictus
Columbus Films completed their latest project, Invictus. The production is a great testament to the Columbus fighting spirit of the Columbus  Wrestling Program. Thank you Mr. Diaz and Mr. Uloa. VIEW FILM

 

Columbus students, faculty and staff volunteered their time preparing Boxes of Joy and screening the boxes at the Cross Catholic Outreach Center in Doral. The boxes, which were filled with toys, clothing, and school supplies, will be sent to children in underdeveloped countries during Christmas time. Through the service, volunteers ensured that each box was age appropriate and contained rosaries and Story of Jesus booklets.  Close to 200 boxes were prepared and we screened hundreds more.  This is in addition to the dozens of Operation Christmas Child Boxes that are prepared by Mrs. Gonzalez-Rojas’ English classes. Special thanks to Ms. Romero who prepared 80 boxes with her Spanish class, Mr. Garrigo who delivered boxes to the center, Br. Al, Mrs. Cruz and all the students, faculty and staff who participated.  

LINK Club Moderators and Officers are Recognized
During their holiday show, Great Heights Academy presented the LINK moderators and officers with plaques and certificates of appreciation for the work they do in promoting the inclusion of individuals with unique abilities in our community. Working with the children of GHA has been a true blessing for our LINK club. 

At our annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on November 30, we honored the following members of the Columbus family for their outstanding achievements and steadfast support of our school:  Br. Benjamin Consigli, fms (former Provincial Superior, Counselor), Dr. Manuel (Doc) Guerra (Teacher, Posthumously), Mr. Robert Linfors ’85 (Administrator, Teacher, Coach), Mr. Grant Miller (Columbus Friend), Mr. Rafael Roca ’88 (Alumni Parent, School Board Member)

We held an Elfstravaganza for children with special needs through our LINK Club.  Our young guests had the opportunity to have a quiet and intimate Santa experience at Br. Eugene Plaza and take part in Christmas themed activities.  Special thanks to Mrs. Gonzalez-Rojas, Mrs. Debra Martinez, Ms.  Llontop, Mr. Nuñez and all who helped out on this special day.

After competing in the largest district with over 50 schools and 1,200+ students, CCHS Drama has qualified for states yet again. With 7 out of 8 events placing, 4 are moving forward to the state level, with the Ensemble A achieving a perfect score (Jorge Alvarez, Sebastian Arana, Alexander Naranjo-Sanchez, Aiden Garcia, Joshua, Gonzalez, Anthony Toledo, and Alexander Valcarcel).  Superior in Monologue A (Sebastian Arana), Superior in Monologue B (Victor Barreda), Superior in Duet Acting A (Alexander Naranjo-Sanchez and Michael Olivares), Excellent in Monologue A (Alexander Valcarcel), Excellent in Solo Musical A (Alexander Naranjo-Sanchez), Excellent in Student Directed (Alexander Valcarcel).  Our one act play that was student-directed by Alexander Valcarcel  placed with an Excellent, with Jorge Alvarez winning the Tech Crew Award and Aiden Garcia winning the All-Star Cast Award. Thank you Ms. McGrath.

College & Career Guidance News:
Our team partnered with the University of Michigan to host a virtual session “It's Never Too Early to Plan for College," specifically designed for 9th - 11th-grade students and their families to foster early college awareness. Mrs. Iris Martinez represented CCHS at the 2023 College Board Forum in NYC, where she presented on the importance of advocating for students alongside the Deans of Admissions from Duke University, University of Miami, and Case Western Reserve University.  The Team also participated in Counselor Programs at Nova Southeastern University and Florida Memorial University, College Counselors partnered with School Counselors to host Bright Future presentations during senior English classes. Several workshops were hosted including an MDC Honors Application and an FSU Deferral workshop.

Turkey Drive
Thank you for your generosity to our Turkey Drive. With your support, 275 turkeys were donated to families in need.  Special thanks to Mr. Gerardo Gonzalez for coordinating the effort.

 

Explorers Attended Sweet Goats & Blueberry Senoritas
Columbus students were invited by former U.S. Presidential Poet Laureate and CCHS alum Robert Blanco to the performance of his play “Sweet Goats & Blueberry Senoritas” at Actors Playhouse.   Special thanks to Mrs. Galvez-Cuesta.

Swimmer Mateo Silva is a District Champion and State Qualifier
Mateo Silva competed in the State Swimming Championship, placed 20th overall.  Congratulations Mateo!

The Columbus golf team finished off their 2023 golf season with a solid round of 310 and placed 13th out of 16 teams at the Mission Inn El Campeon Course.  Victor Herrera and Hector Perez Sainz led the way placing 22nd and 43rd out of 96 golfers. Victor shot 76, 76 and Hector shot 82 on day one followed by an amazing 74 (+2) good for 3rd among all freshmen in the state. Thank you Coach Marinelli.

The Cross Country Team had a fantastic performance at the regional meet. The boys secured the win and dominated the race from the start. Everyone had a great performance with the two standouts being Alejandro Romagosa taking 1st place and Alexander Lopez taking 3rd place. Thank you Coach Areces.

Columbus Publications Received Top Awards Awards
Our Adelante yearbook, Log newspaper, and CCNN Live are shining at the state and district level.  Adelante, led by Mrs. Essig, earned an Honorable Mention State Ranking in Photography, 2 Excellence State Rankings and an All Florida Ranking.  They also excelled in the District Quick Turns awards where they secured two 1st Place awards.  The Log, led by Joseph Busatto, won one All-Florida Award, 5 Excellent State Rankings and 6 Honorable Mention State Rankings. Mr. Busatto earned the prestigious All-Florida Award for his News Magazine Opinion Spread and his team garnered 5 Excellent Rankings.  The Log also secured 1st Place in Quick Turn Headline Contest and in Quick Turn Illustration as well as 2nd Place in Quick Turn Political Commentary Profile. CCNN, led by Mr. Delgado, Mrs. Insua and Ms. Rodriguez, won 14 All-Florida Awards, 5 Honorable Mention State Awards, 13 Excellent State Awards, and six 1^st place District Quick Turns Awards. Special thanks to Mr. Delgado, Director of Media Publications.  

A delegation of Columbus students participated in the Encounter at the Marist Brothers Center in Esopus, New York. This is an innovative and creative retreat for students from Marist schools and ministries from throughout the country.  Thank you to Ms. Brown and Mr. Emmanuel Gonzalez for accompanying the students.

Rev. Alejandro Rodriguez Artola, '81, celebrated the Alumni Memorial Mass in honor of our faithfully departed alumni.  The names of our deceased alumni were read by Dr. E. Carter Burrus, '62, Mr. Steven O'Brien, '72, Mr. Robert Linfors, '85, Mr. Carlos Nuñez, '94, Mr. Richard Amador, '94, and Mr. Andres Fernandez, '15.  Special thanks to Mr. Gerardo Gonzalez, Ms. Tellechea, and Campus Ministry leaders. 

Special thanks to campus ministry leaders Javier Aragon and Robert Chica for preparing the Genevieve Abraham Chapel for the Season of Advent.

Junior and Seniors went on an Encounter retreat at Morningstar Renewal Center where among many activities they experienced a spiritual exercise and meditation at the Labyrinth.  Thank you to campus ministry leaders, Mr. Gonzalez, Ms. Rodriguez, Mr. Areces, and Mr. Baez.

Priests from the Archdiocese of Miami were on campus to celebrate the Sacrament of Penance (confessions).  Many students participated in preparation for Christmas during the Season of Advent.  Thanks to Campus Ministry and Theology Department for their collaboration throughout the coordination of the day.

President Kruczek welcomed Marist High School Chicago students who visited Columbus prior to their Marist Mission Conference experience in Palm Beach, FL.

Cameron Boozer/Gatorade Brought New Uniforms to the Children of Greater Heights Academy 
We had the pleasure of hosting the special needs children of Great Heights Academy on campus to unveil the brand-new City Edition basketball and cheerleading uniforms.  Last year, Cameron Boozer ‘25 was named the National Gatorade Player of the Year, and in a heartwarming gesture, he chose GHA as the recipient of his charitable gift. The GHA students beamed with pride as they showcased the stunning uniforms. Thank you, Gatorade and Cameron, for supporting the dreams and aspirations of these talented youngsters.

Wordwide Assurance Food & Wine Festival
Our Columbus Family had a great time at the World Assurance Columbus Food & Wine Festival (presented by WOW MKTG).  This popular event drew alumni, parents, and faculty to our cafeteria which was beautifully decorated and featured plenty of delectable food, wines from around the world and plenty of music and dancing.  We thank all of our sponsors and attendees. Special thanks to Mr. Ramos, Ms. Ramunas and Ms. Vento.

Defensive lineman Dylan Stephenson, a Stanford University commit, was honored in November as a 2024 All-American during a virtual jersey presentation as part of the Road to the Dome digital series.  Having been selected to play in the 24^th All-American Bowl, Stephenson will play in the annual East vs. West matchup inside the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas on January 6^th. 

Senior Jose-Arnel Ortega has become a two-time National Fencing Champion (under 21 age group) in his weapon of foil. He also won silver in a Seniors Competition and a bronze medal in the second weapon of saber. He is looking forward to representing Puerto Rico as part of the National Fencing team at the Panamerican Championships in Rio, Brazil and World Championships in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Academic Dean and former English Teacher Mr. Bob Linfors was one of 10 open mic storytellers who performed and competed at The Moth Miami GrandSLAM which took place at Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater in Overtown, Miami.  Bob shared a unique, unexpected, and magical true story.  It was the ultimate battle of wits and words.

Jim Husk has retired after 59 years of coaching the sport of wrestling.  We were lucky to have Coach Husk as our varsity wrestling coach for 19 of those 59 years. Previously Coach Husk had coached at Southridge H.S, where he and his teams won seven state titles and before that he coached at both Southwest Miami H.S. and Archbishop Curley H.S.    Coach Husk transformed the Columbus wrestling program into a powerhouse within Dade County, led two Explorers to state championship wins and made a profound impact in the South Florida Wrestling community. The Columbus community wishes him the best in his well-earned retirement.