From the Desk of Kelly Hilton

As we approach the finish line of another incredible school year, it’s hard not to reflect on just how quickly the months have passed. The end of the year always brings a mix of emotions — excitement for what lies ahead, pride in all our students have accomplished, and some bittersweet tears as we prepare to say goodbye to the Class of 2026.

In the coming weeks, we look forward to celebrating our seniors through Honors Day, Baccalaureate Mass, and Graduation. These Marian Central Catholic traditions are always meaningful reminders of the growth, resilience, and commitment to faith our students bring to the Marian Central community. While we will certainly miss seeing our seniors in the halls each day, we are excited to watch them begin the next chapter of their journey.

At the same time, preparations are already underway for the 2026–2027 school year! Here are a few important dates and opportunities returning students and families can look forward to as we look forward to beginning another great year together:

College Essay Writing Workshop: August 3–6
This workshop is designed to help rising seniors get an early start on their Common Application essay and supplemental writing pieces. Registration flyers are available in the Guidance Office.
College Application Night: anticipated date – Thursday, August 20
Seniors and parents are strongly encouraged to attend this important evening program, during which we will review the college application process and highlights for Marian Central students.
Senior Post-Secondary Meetings: August–September
Mr. Wochner, College Counselor, will meet individually with each senior to discuss application timelines, testing plans, test-optional decisions, school-specific requirements, and important deadlines.
Freshman, Sophomore, and Junior Guidance Chats: September during Advisory
School counselors will meet with each grade level to share tips for a successful school year, introduce or revisit SCOIR – our digital college and career planning tool, and provide information about upcoming PreACT 8/9, PreACT, and PSAT testing.

Please continue to watch future editions of the Friday Focus throughout the summer and fall for updates, reminders, and additional counseling department programming for students and families.

On behalf of the entire counseling team, we extend our congratulations and best wishes to the Class of 2026 as they prepare for all that lies ahead. We also look forward to welcoming the Class of 2030 to the Marian Central family this fall. Enjoy a restful summer, and we can’t wait to see everyone back for another wonderful school year!

Kelly Hilton

Director of Guidance

Athletic Department Announcement

I am very proud to announce Mr. Lafeyette Bell as Marian Central’s new Athletic Director. Mr. Bell is a proud father of five: Tayshaun (21), Elijah (17), Malachi (15), and twins Kyla and Nylah (12). His family has had the greatest impact on his life, and it has help shape who he is today. They have helped teach him responsibility, patience, and the importance of leading by example—values he continues to carry into his professional life on a daily basis.

He began his basketball journey at Glenbard West High School before continuing at Elmhurst College and Concordia University. Those experiences in college helped build his foundation in discipline, teamwork, and leadership. After his playing career, he transitioned into coaching, where he spent four years at the varsity level and two years at the lower levels, focusing on both development and competition. He has also coached AAU basketball for 11 years through Fast Basketball Academy, helping athletes grow and compete at a high level.

In 2015, he founded 4Athletes Sports Performance, where he trained athletes to improve their physical performance. He currently owns Fast Basketball Academy, where he continues to develop players’ skills, knowledge, and character.

Mr. Bell has also spent the past four years as a teacher, which has enhanced his ability to connect with and mentor students. He is now seeking an opportunity to contribute to the continued growth of Marian Central Catholic, where he strongly feels he can make a lasting impact through leadership, education, and athletics.

I have asked Mr. Bell to improve our Athletic program at Marian Central with special emphasis on more effective communication to all entities, enhance our scheduling process, develop better relationships with our parents and coaches, fully evaluate all sporting activities/programs, and develop a full working athletic budget.

The administration feels strongly that Mr. Bell is the perfect individual to lead our athletic programs into the future with SUCCESS.

Mike Shukis
Head of School

Watch Live - Honors Day and Graduation

For those who are not able to attend Honors Day or Graduation, you can join us remotely by watching live!

Honors Day - Monday, May 18th at 9:00 am

Marian Central Catholic Events | High School Sports | Home | Hudl

Graduation - Friday, May 22nd at 7:00 pm

Marian Central Catholic Events | High School Sports | Home | Hudl

Uniform and Book Collection

Our National Honor Society will be hosting a uniform giveway and book sale in June (details to come). As the school year comes to a close, please consider donating any textbooks or uniforms you no longer have need for so that incoming families can benefit from your generosity.

Collections are open starting now in the Marian main office. Thank you for your consideration in supporting our Marian family.

Device Collection

ALL students must return their Marian issued laptops and chargers at the end of each school year. Every summer, the school performs regularly scheduled updates and maintenance on all student devices. These devices will then be redistributed to all registered 2026-2027 students.

Devices and chargers will be collected in Room 234. Students should turn them in after all finals are complete, no later than noon on May 21st.