Student Life
Student News
A Letter from our Principal
Greetings Bishop Noll Supporters,
This February, our hearts ached with the loss of Mr. Rocco Charles Carioto, our beloved band director, who died at age 63. As we enter spring and reflect during this Easter season, Mr. C’s impact on our community resonates even deeper. He arrived at BNI in 2010, tasked with transforming a handful of students into a real school band. With dedication, he built not just one band, but a family of musicians, eventually branching out to include marching, jazz and mariachi bands.
This February, our hearts ached with the loss of Mr. Rocco Charles Carioto, our beloved band director, who died at age 63. As we enter spring and reflect during this Easter season, Mr. C’s impact on our community resonates even deeper. He arrived at BNI in 2010, tasked with transforming a handful of students into a real school band. With dedication, he built not just one band, but a family of musicians, eventually branching out to include marching, jazz and mariachi bands.
Beyond BNI, he nurtured young talent at feeder schools like St. Stanislaus and St. Casimir. He was a loving father and stepfather. Mr. Carioto was also a beloved husband to his Angelica. Mr. C wasn’t just a director; he was a mentor and a friend. When you didn’t see him roaming the halls in his Cubs jacket, you could catch him marching down the streets of Chicago in the Thanksgiving Day Parade. His legacy lives on within the 55-member strong band that carried his memory as they marched in his honor at the
Southside Irish Parade on March 17.
Mr. C’s loss compels us to reflect on the profound impact individuals can have on a community. As principal of BNI, I am aware of my leadership role in shaping this great institution. With support from the Diocese and the BNI Board, and in alignment with our strategic plan, I’m excited to share our vision for BNI’s future. My commitment is to continuously adapt, ensuring we meet the evolving needs of our students. The coming decade presents an opportunity to refine our services and expand our options, fostering a dynamic
learning environment that guarantees BNI’s continued success. CLICK HERE for a detailed video message outlining our plans for BNI. We invite you, our BNI family—parents, students, and the wider community—to join us on this journey as we build upon the legacy of Mr. C and create a vibrant future for BNI.
A TRADITION RETURNS
As Lent began, BNI reinstated a cherished tradition: class Masses held at our neighboring St. Margaret Mary Church. When discussing with the school team, we felt that the Lenten season was the best time to engage and nourish our students in prayer and relationship with Christ.
The positive Catholic community response has been heartwarming, with the support of Fathers Mike Surufka and Ed Shea and our local Friars playing a key role in this success. Our students will break bread together Mondays for the remainder of the school year.
I pray that you, as a Bishop Noll supporter, realize the impact you make with all those you interact with daily in word, thought, and action. When opportunities arise to be the hands of Christ, I pray you represent our Lord as you should; humbly and compassionately.
On behalf of the entire BNI community, we wish you and your family a blessed Easter season!
God Bless,
Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01
Principal
Bishop Noll Institute, a diverse, Catholic college preparatory school, partners with local faith communities to empower young adults to live their faith in Christ through ministry, scholarship, and leadership.