Kennedy Sunday School Newsletter

Dear Kennedy Families and Community,

There is a specific kind of energy that takes over a campus when students are firing on all cylinders—academically, athletically, and creatively. This past week at Kennedy High School was a perfect example of that vibrant spirit. Whether it was on the field or on the stage, our Fighting Irish showed exactly what makes this community so special.

Our Spring Athletics are in full swing, and this past Tuesday was truly a day for the record books. It was a "clean sweep" across the board as our Boys’ Volleyball team delivered a dominant performance by sweeping Godinez High School in three straight games. That same afternoon, our Baseball team secured a fantastic victory against Buena Park, and Softball continued their momentum with a win over Valencia. It was a winning day for Kennedy, and I am incredibly proud of the grit and sportsmanship our athletes display every time they put on the jersey.

While the fields were buzzing, the heart of our campus was transformed on Thursday night as MP1 became a hub of innovation and storytelling for our first TEDxKennedyHighYouth event. This incredible initiative was spearheaded by 10th-grade student Kaela Dominique Suan, who founded and organized the program to create a platform for young voices to share meaningful ideas. The evening centered around the theme "What Shapes Us?" and featured brilliant speakers from Oxford Academy, Cypress High School, and Kennedy High School. I want to give a massive shout-out to Zoey Khum for her talk, “Do You Think You’re in Control of Your Life?” and Mahin Vyas for his talk, “Forged by Influences.” As a principal, there is no greater joy than witnessing our students take ownership of their ideas and lead their peers with such maturity and insight.

Looking ahead, this coming week is one of the most significant of the entire school year. Our Class of 2026 will be participating in the "My Kennedy Story" Senior Capstone Showcase on Tuesday, April 7th; Thursday, April 9th; and Friday, April 10th. During these showcases, our seniors will share their personal journeys and future aspirations with panels of teachers, district staff, community partners, and parents. This is a monumental moment - a formal presentation of who they have become and where they are going.

Because we believe so deeply in the importance of this milestone, our entire teaching and support staff will be participating as panelists. Please note that our offices will be closed during the panels and will reopen at 9:15 am each day. Consequently, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday will follow a Late Start Bell Schedule with first period starting at 9:25 am. I thank you in advance for your understanding and for supporting the importance of this schoolwide event.

Finally, as if the week weren't busy enough, we are also celebrating National Assistant Principals’ Week. We are incredibly fortunate to have Ms. Amanda Bryant, Dr. Esther Cho, and Mr. Jeff Howe as part of the Kennedy Administrative Team. They work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that our students, staff, and parents are supported, and Kennedy is a better place because of their energy. When you see them this week, please make sure to share your appreciation with them.

It is going to be a big week for the Fighting Irish. Let’s make it a great one!

Warmly,

Poppy Hill-Bonales

Proud Principal, Kennedy High School

Home of the Fighting Irish

The fourth annual Capstone Showcase presentations are this week!

As part of the showcase, we ask that all parents who have signed up to volunteer stay for the duration of the session to support all student presenters in that group, rather than just their own student. As a panelist, you will provide encouraging and positive feedback to help build the students' confidence as they share their journeys.

We will have an informational session in MP1 each day at 7:30 am to review the Capstone process and classroom placements. After the presentation, we will help you locate classrooms.

We have a special Capstone Bell Schedule for Tuesday and Friday. We will follow our Late Start schedule on Thursday. Thank you for joining us in our school-wide effort to celebrate the accomplishments of our Seniors!

Seniors! If you need professional clothing to look sharp for your Capstone Showcase, we will have a Professional Clothing Boutique leading up to the Capstone! Come on by Room 901 and pick whatever you'd like.

This is where you can find special announcements and events from our counselors!

This includes scholarship support, classes, webinars, and so much more! Please click on the flyers and attachments below and take advantage of this resource!

This month, College Bound is offering lots of resources for students. Take a look at their offerings below!

Please consider joining the PTSA this year to help foster the connection between the school and the community. Even if you are busy, you can still participate! Take a look at our birthday announcements available to purchase. Nominations for the 2025-2026 HSA awards are now available. Consider nominating someone you find makes a big difference in our community!

Take a look and click on the flyers for more information