MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Trinity Catholic Junior-Senior High School may no longer sit surrounded by wheat fields, but Principal Joe Godina says the school remains a strong cornerstone of the community.
Located at 17th and Lorraine, Trinity now shares its neighborhood with restaurants, businesses, and the new YMCA just across from the football field. The school serves grades 7 through 12, drawing not only from Hutchinson’s Holy Cross Catholic School but also from McPherson, Newton, Andale, and other surrounding communities.
“While the majority of our seventh graders come from Holy Cross, we also welcome students from other towns and of all denominations,” Godina said. “Trinity is open to anyone looking for a smaller, faith-based learning environment.”
New Gym a “Game Changer”
Last October, Trinity opened a new gymnasium that has transformed athletics scheduling. Godina recalled how junior high basketball once meant 6 a.m. practices. “That no longer has to happen,” he said. “We can now host sub-varsity games at 4 p.m. instead of starting as early as 2 p.m.”
The facility has also improved the overall student experience, freeing up space and making practices more efficient.
Homecoming Spirit and Athletics
This week, students are celebrating Homecoming with themed dress-up days, including a “beach day” that had Godina trading his suit for shorts and a Hawaiian shirt. Friday night, the Celtics face Conway Springs in football, carrying a 3-1 record after a big win over South Sumner.
On the golf course, sophomore Annika Palsroot continues to shine. Since Trinity does not have a girls’ golf team, she competes with Buhler High. Palsroot finished ninth at state as a freshman and recently fired a personal-best round of 71.
Giving Day: October 10
Looking ahead, Trinity’s largest fundraiser of the year, Giving Day, is set for October 10. The event supports the school’s annual fund, which accounts for about 5% of the total budget—roughly $125,000.
“The annual fund covers everyday essentials—textbooks, utilities, salaries—the things that keep the school running,” Godina said. “Without it, we couldn’t do what we do.”
Giving Day will include a student Mass, community celebrations, coffee and donuts for visitors, and even a barbecue lunch for students. Alumni are encouraged to donate in honor of their graduation year, whether it’s $19.98 or $198.80 for a member of the Class of 1998.
A Crown Jewel
Godina called Trinity “a crown jewel” in Hutchinson, citing not only academic excellence but also spiritual growth. Programs like the Kairos retreat, now in its third year, have become an integral part of student life.
“We have a great group of kids who care deeply about our school,” he said. “Trinity is more than just a school—it’s a community.”