The Messenger - January 20, 2017

THE MESSENGER January 20, 2017 staopcs.org

Finally, all of you, be of one mind, sympathetic, loving toward one another, compassionate, humble. – 1 Peter 3:8

MESSAGE FROM ADMINISTRATION Dear School Families, We wished Deacon Tom Vicknair the best on his retirement from the parish staff at our Mass on Wednesday. We're glad to know he will still be with us for liturgies on the weekends and sometimes on Fridays too. We want to welcome Deacon Mike Mort to the parish staff and look forward to working with him. Thanks to the parents who attended Wednesday's Mission Matters – P.O.D. We have another Mission Matters parent meeting scheduled for Wednesday, January 25th after morning announcements. We will present information about campus security and crisis management. We will also discuss options for revising our current arrival and dismissal procedures with construction coming to an end and the availability of a new drive on the backside of the building. Your input would be appreciated, so join us if you can.

Our discipleship message this week is about God’s love for us. We see His love through our family, friends, teachers and staff members who love us and they see God’s love through us when we love them back. God reminds us that He abides in us. That means he lives in us and when we show love to others we abide or live in God’s heart, too. It is not always easy to love. Sometimes it can be very hard. But we can ask God to help us to love all those around us each day and all those we will meet especially those who are different, unpleasant or even unkind to us. A great spiritual goal for all of us is never to let those around us see anything but love coming from us towards another person.

There is a lot coming up in the next few weeks that you'll want to be aware of. Registration for 2017–2018 opens on Monday, January 23rd for returning families. This year re–enrollment is online. Look further in The Messenger for more information. The annual letter from the School Advisory Committee along with 2017– 2018 Tuition and Fees is being sent home today in green folders. We're all looking forward to National Catholic Schools Week which begins on Sunday, January 29th. We hope everyone will join us in celebrating! Please make plans with your family to support 8th grade's Legacy Scholarship Spaghetti Dinner on February 4th providing tuition assistance for next year. God's blessings to everyone for a great week ahead!

Reneé B. Nunez

Susan Leddy

Kendall Shamas

Principal

Assistant Principal

Assistant Principal

WHY FULL–DAY PRE–K? We are blessed with the opportunity in our parish community to be able to offer two exceptional opportunities for a child’s early educational experience, our school and the Little Saints Early Childhood Program. They both provide loving Catholic environments that foster a lifelong love of learning. To better serve the parish community it is important that we work together as one education department offering distinct programs that meet the needs of our parish community. After extensive research, discussion and prayer, the decision was made to bring the school in line with our Catholic school counterparts in the local area and Cluster 5 by moving to a full–day Pre–K program. This allows Little Saints to provide a part–time program offering two– or three–day programs in operation from 9:00 a.m.

–2:00 p.m. each day. Change is never easy, but bringing two already excellent programs closer together to serve the needs of our community in a better way is good for our children and for our parish.

MESSAGE FROM ADMINISTRATION WHAT DID THE SURVEYS SAY? Thank you to the families who took time to complete the Feasibility Survey before the holidays on Full-Day Pre-K. We had 44 families respond representing 14% of our community. Yes, we would have liked to have more responses, but we did value the responses that we did receive.

From those responses, 58% have children in Pre-K now, 48% have had children enrolled in the past, and 68% have children that they may enroll in the future. 79% said that we should offer both Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 programs. For Pre-K3 51% favored full-day, 14% favored part-time, 24% favored both, 40% favored 5 days a week 12% favored 3 days a week and 40% favored both. For Pre-K4 57% favored full-day, 10% favored part-time and 32% favored both. Families favoring paying the same tuition rate as K-8 were 43%. Those willing to pay a higher rate for a lower teacher/student ratio was 18% and 27% would not pay either. 30% of families will still need the services of Before & After School. We also received numerous comments, which we appreciate very much. They were very positive and supportive.

WHAT DOES A FULL-DAY PRE-K PROGRAM MEAN? Our full-day Pre-K students will follow the same schedule as Kindergarten. Their day will be from 8:00 a.m.—3:15 p.m., Monday through Friday. It will provide increased instructional time and allow teachers to expand and enrich on current curriculum in religion, language arts, math, science and auxiliary programs. Prime instructional time focused on language arts and math can now be provided for all of our Pre-K students in the morning when they are at their best. Lunch and naptime will be part of a Pre-K student's day. There will be more time for recess, free play, center time and work on social skills. Our Pre-K students will be able to fully participate in school wide activities such as Halloween Science Day, Earth Day, etc. We will still offer Before & After School Care for Pre-K students. Feel free to contact us, if you have questions about the full-day program. You are also invited to Future Family Open House on February 2nd to learn more.

MESSAGE FROM SCHOOL ADVISORY COMMITTEE HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE SCHOOL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (SAC)!

The SAC is blessed to be a part of the SAOPCS family. We have been a busy group so far this school year. We have:     

Provided hospitality at the First Day of Orientation and both Parent Information Nights Participated at 100% in the Fund for St. Anthony Begun policy review for both Little Saints and SAOPCS Worked to increase SAC visibility Provided staff appreciation gifts.

We look forward to some of the exciting happenings that lie ahead in 2017 and are pleased to share some information with you.

NEWS YOU CAN USE: The school improvement goals for this year include the SAC and its subcommittees (Advancement and Finance) taking a look at the feasibility of a mandatory fundraising fee and mandatory volunteer hours for families beginning with the 2017– 2018 school year. The SAC has focused on these two items during the past months.

What? A Mandatory Fundraising Fee? The feasibility study of a mandatory fundraising fee has brought the SAC and its sub–committees to the conclusion that, at this time, there will be no mandatory fundraising fee. However, we want 100% participation in the Fund for St. Anthony.

Our school’s mission can only be realized when you, our parents, invest in the school to ensure the dreams you have for your children become realities. The Fund for St. Anthony helps to sustain programs and activities not covered by tuition that enrich the education of our students. We are grateful that family participation is 55% to date this year. The staff participation is 100%! If you have not already done so, please consider partnering with us so that we can reach 100% participation in the School Fund.

What? Mandatory Volunteer Hours?

Family involvement in the school enhances student achievement and adds to the quality of the total school program.

Parents and guardians are partners with the administration, staff, teachers, and pastor at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School to help to enrich the education and faith experiences offered to students. However, rather than requiring volunteer hours, the Advancement Subcommittee of the SAC, working with the School Advancement Department, is excited about a new approach to be implemented next school year: Paduan Points. Parents will be asked to acquire family volunteer hours called Paduan Points annually. Points may be acquired by parents, guardians, or close family members. Each family is asked to accumulate at least 20 Paduan Points throughout the school year by volunteering in various ways. Look for more information coming about this new initiative.

COMING SOON:   

As a result of interest expressed on the parent survey and a survey of our cluster schools, a full–day pre–K program is planned beginning in the fall 2017.

Our school and the Little Saints Program have begun efforts to further integrate early childhood education services.

Little Saints can now be found under the school’s website. As we move to increase faith and knowledge within out rich Catholic heritage in both programs, resources and curriculum may be shared and communication facilitated.

On–line registration for returning families is available beginning January 23. As a result, credit cards will be accepted! Knowing the current economic situation and still having increase costs of staff benefits, tuition increase will be kept to a minimum. The 2017–2018 Tuition & Fee Schedule has been sent home today and is online!

We look forward to continuing to serve the school community!

Yours in Christ, Betty Hollas School Advisory Committee, Chair School Advisory Committee Members: Rocio Arana, Angie Coscio, Celeste Fruge, Amy Janiszewski, Kathleen Johnson, Catherine Miller, Heather Rosas

REGISTRATION INFORMATION Campus Tours of Common Areas

Registration Timeline

Thursday, January 12 | 10:00 a.m.

Thursday, January 19 | 10:00 a.m.

Thursday, January 26 | 10:00 a.m.

Monday, January 23 | Registration Opens for Returning Families Wednesday, February 1 | Registration Closes for Returning Families Monday, February 6 | Registration Opens for New Students Wednesday, February 15 | Registration Closes for New Students Saturday, February 25 | Screening Day for New Student Applicants Friday, March 10 | Decision Emails Sent

Future Family Open House Thursday, February 2 | 6:30 p.m.

ONLINE RE–ENROLLMENT FOR RETURNING STUDENTS THOUGH PARENTSWEB©:     

Re–enrollment for returning students is Monday, January 23 – Wednesday, February 1 You will receive an email on Monday when your re–enrollment packet is ready on your ParentsWeb© account.

If you have not created a ParentsWeb© account, directions will be in the email you receive when your packet is ready.

This new process will allow you to complete your student’s re–enrollment for the 2017–2018 school year online.

Detailed instructions will guide you through the process.

FACTS© TUITION MANAGEMENT: We have partnered with FACTS© Management Company to help us manage our tuition payment program, financial aid assessment and incidental billing. We are excited to be working with them and are confident this program will offer greater efficiency and financial stability for the school while providing conveniences to families. 

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Payment Plans: You will be able to choose from different payment plans that best suit your family’s needs. Automatic payments can be made from a checking or savings account or from a variety of credit cards.

Convenience & Security: Along with different payment plan options, your payments are processed securely through a bank to bank transaction.

Peace of Mind Insurance: FACTS© offers this optional benefit for only $17 per year per family. In the event of death of the Responsible Party or spouse, the remaining tuition balance owed for the current school year is paid to the school.

Consumer Account: You may check your personal account or make payments online from the convenience of your home or office anytime.

If you have any questions or require assistance contact Cathy Russell at crussell@staopcs.org.

2017–2018 TUITION ASSISTANCE St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School is pleased to offer two options for tuition assistance for the 2017–2018 school year – the St. Anthony of Padua Tuition Grant Program and the Archdiocesan Tuition Assistance Program.

St. Anthony of Padua Tuition Grant Program

Archdiocesan Tuition Assistance Program

Available to:

St. Anthony of Padua Parishioners

Any Catholic School Student

Grade Levels

K – 8th

K – 8th

Qualifications

Economic Need

Economic Need

Limitations

Limited to a portion of tuition only – usually no more than 50%

DUE DATE

March 31, 2017

Range from $500 to $2500 per family towards tuition only February 10, 2017 (90% of available funds will be distributed)

Families applying for financial aid will need to complete an application and submit the necessary supporting documentation to FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment. Note that after the due dates additional monies may not be available. The only applications that will be considered after these dates will be those of an emergency nature – loss of job, serious medical situations, change in family status, etc.

Applicants apply online by clicking the following link—FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment Once an online application has been completed, the following required information must be uploaded in PDF format or faxed to 866–315–9264.  Copies of your most recent Federal tax forms including all supporting tax schedules  Copies of your 2016 W–2 forms for both you and your spouse  Copies of supporting documentation for Social Security Income, Welfare, Child Support, Food Stamps, Workers Compensation & TANF FACTS will report to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School and the Archdiocese showing the amount a family can reasonably be expected to pay towards tuition. The sole purpose of the report will be for the awarding of available funds. This information will be held in strictest confidence. The SAOP Tuition Grant Committee including the principal and pastor will award grants for the SAOP Tuition Grant Program.

There will be no actual transfer of funds to the family if assistance is allocated. Instead the funds will be credited to the family’s tuition account. Families will be responsible for the balance of tuition to be paid in accordance with the tuition and fees policy. In the genuine spirit of Christian sharing, if during the school year a family receiving a grant becomes financially able to attend school without financial assistance, that family is expected to pay the remaining tuition, thus allowing aid to be extended to another family in need.

A family receiving a tuition grant must provide volunteer services to the school in support of various school activities. Families receiving tuition grants will be required to document volunteer activities at mid–year and, if applicable, as part of the application process for the following school year.

A Catholic school education is an investment in the future and we appreciate the opportunity to serve your family’s educational needs. If you have questions please contact Cathy Russell at crussell@staopcs.org.

ALL–SCHOOL NEWS Mission Matters: Points of Discussion

NURSE’S NOTES

Mission Matters: POD is a parent–seminar series that is presented by our Administration.

01–16–17 6B

Influenza

01–19–17 1A

Strep Throat

01–13–17 Pre–K 4 a.m. Pink Eye

"School Safety & Future Arrival and Dismissal Changes” January 25th, 8:15 a.m.

AMR

January/February 2017 Calendar Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

23

24

25

26

27

Parent–led Rosary (en Español), 2:30 p.m.

Campus Tours, 10 a.m.

$1 T–shirt & Jean Day benefiting Feed My Starving Children

Registration opens for Returning Families Parent–led Rosary, 8:15 a.m.

30

Love & Logic, 1 p.m.

Mission Matters Parent Meeting, 8:15 a.m.

31

100th Day of School!

1

2

3

Parent–led Rosary, 8:15 a.m.

Registration closes for Returning Families

Love & Logic, 1 p.m.

Free Shoe Day for Steps for Students

Early Release (10:30, 2:15, 2:30)

Parent–led Rosary (en Español), 2:30 p.m.

Future Family Open House, 6:30 p.m.

Spaghetti Dinner Saturday, Feb. 4 4 —8 p.m.

National Catholic Schools Week—see page 8 for details 6

7

Spring Sports Meet the Coaches (Baseball, Softball, Track), 6:30 Parent–led Rosary, 8:15 p.m. a.m.

Registration opens for New Families

8

9

10

Parent–led Rosary (en Español), 2:30 p.m.

Love & Logic, 1 p.m.

Individual Spring Pictures

GALA: Painting Party , 4:00 p.m.

2ND QUARTER AWARDS HONOR ROLL 5th Grade: Megan Brady, Josie Domitrovic, Ben Fedoruk, Luca Giannotti, Victoria Hibbeler, Nita Kuttarappallil, Jack Mackenzie, Lauren McCollor, Patrick McKenna, Kento Nakao, David Nelli, Annie Perry, Beckett Richards, Sofia Ritchey, Rachel Rodriguez, Ashley Wong ST. ANTHONY HONOR ROLL 6th Grade: Rebeca Amparan, James Dickinson, Collin Dufrene, Andy Haggerty, Kate Mackenzie, Ted Naeher, Sofia Ocejo, Emily Perry, Christopher Poisler, Sam Ros 7th Grade: Riley Amador, Matthew Brady, Flora Domitrovic, Joshua Fishman, John Hill, Avery Kemp, Nicole Kowalchuk, Alexis Larkin, Sarah Page, John Podowski, Reagan Whatley 8th Grade: Juanita Boada, Laurel Coleman, Kylie Hansen, Isabel Harwood, Chiara Melchiorre, Aidan Moorman, Vanessa Munguia, Emily Nelli, Ryan Pereira, Christopher Perry, Mark Poisler, Chloe Porras, Will Rizzo, Lauren Wong PADUAN HONOR ROLL 6th Grade: Jordan Booth, Ben Burch, Nathan Doiron, Hannah Dompnier, Evie Fleming, Jackson Knower, Catherine Laher, Jorge Martinez, Marianna Munguia, Jack Parsons, McKayla Toomey, Gus White 7th Grade: Samuel Denison, Addison Janiszewski, Rachel Strapp 8th Grade: Elizabeth Meyer PADUAN PRIDE AWARD 1st Grade: Sammy White, Bella Nguyen, Gavin Stamps, Fernanda Yepiz 2nd Grade: Sydney Tajong, Ceci Amparan, Amelia Schmidt, Daniel Walker 3rd Grade: Sophia Colletti, Sofia Cruz, Anderson Dufrene, Sarah Boyd 4th Grade: Clare Strecker, Cooper Hansen, Nicholas Beatty, Isabella Ibrahim 5th Grade: Ashley Wong, Jacob Trotter, Jessica Bazaldua, Megan Brady 6th Grade: Lillian Wingate, Nathan Doiron , Evie Fleming, Jack Parsons 7th Grade: Andres Escobar, Sasha Heinle, Flora Domitrovic, Alexis Larkin 8th Grade: Gillian Johnson, Mark Poisler, Chloe Porras, Christopher Perry CHRISTIAN 1st Grade: 2nd Grade: 3rd Grade: 4th Grade: 5th Grade: 6th Grade: 7th Grade: 8th Grade:

SPIRIT AWARD Mateo DeAguirre, Shiloh Stevens, Barton West, Amelie Hernandez–Parks Addyson Hansen, Rafaela De Azevedo, Nathan Coon, Audrey Maurac Caleb Cook–Norris, Sabrina Munguia, Jack Janiszewski, Lucy Franklin Molly Miller, Bella Rios, Jimena de la Maza, Molly Snipp Nathan Klie, Sofia Ritchey, Rebecca Gunnlaugsson, Camilo Correa Avery Hansen, Bernie Roblesgil, Rebeca Amparan, James Dickinson Giovanni Jabbour, Sarah Page, John Hill, Mary Wittmer Juanita Boada, Aidan Moorman, Reid Wing, Gabrielle Richards

BEACON OF LIGHT AWARD 1st Grade: Michael Vacek, Mariella Lease, Renee Dewlen, Aubrey Smith 2nd Grade: Elizabeth Marcotte, Seve Amador, McKenzie Schmittauer, Edu Arana 3rd Grade: Aliana Burns, Rylan Ellis, Andres Ritchey, Riley Martin 4th Grade: Will Knower, Sofi Mendez Valdez, Shane O’Hare, Izzy Coscio 5th Grade: Victoria Hibbeler, Patrick McKenna, Lillie Denison, Alexa Perez De Arenaza 6th Grade: Rachel Sanchez, Michael Mitchener, Bishop Moorman 7th Grade: Andrew Shrewsbury, Hannah Bernardo, Isa Guzman, Isa Knoepffler 8th Grade: Kylie Hansen, Peter Elhajj, Brooke Frazier, Aidan O’Hare

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK 2017 January 29th—February 4th We are celebrating Catholic Schools week using the national themes provided by the National Catholic Educational Association while also recognizing the charisms of our Patron Saint, St. Anthony of Padua. Join us in celebrating this special week.

Sunday, January 29 | In Our Parish Students are encouraged to wear their uniforms to Mass; Greeters & Ushers are needed for 11 a.m. Mass— sign–up to help serve! Sign–up Genius Monday, January 30 | In Our Community | Charism of Mercy Classroom Penny Drive begins: Students are encouraged to collect and donate pennies in their classrooms throughout Catholic Schools Week. Collected funds will be donated to Catholic Charities of Houston.

Tuesday, January 31 | Celebrating Our Students | Charism of Voluntary Poverty Pajama Day!* *As on all Free Dress days, clothing must be modest and appropriate. Please refer to Family Handbook for further guidelines.

Wednesday, February 1 | Celebrating the Nation | Charism of Understanding Classroom Poster Contest featuring American Saints & Cathedrals Students will sit with their Paduan Pods at weekly Mass.

Thursday, February 2 | Celebrating Vocations | Charism of Knowledge Dress Your Vocation!* What will you be when you “grow up”!? *As on all Free Dress days, clothing must be modest and appropriate. Please refer to Family Handbook for further guidelines.

Friday, February 3 | Celebrating Faculty, Staff & Volunteers | Charism of Faith Show your favorite staff member love by praying for them!

Saturday, February 4 | Celebrating Families Join us for the 8th Grade Spaghetti Dinner from 4—8 p.m. in Bishop Sheltz Hall to support the Legacy Scholarship Fund

8TH GRADE CLASS GIFT

This year’s 8th graders are introducing, as its 2016–2017 Class Gift, The Legacy Scholarship Fund which encompasses a full tuition scholarship presented to a student in financial need for the 2017–2018 school year.

In essence, our 8th graders will be “paying it forward” by raising funds for tuition and fees to be used next school year. To accomplish this goal, they will be hosting a School–Wide/Parish–Wide Spaghetti Dinner!

Mark your calendars and plan on joining us for this festive evening as we raise funds for a very worthy cause...all happening during Catholic Schools Week.

Special thanks to our major donor: Daniel Miranda of Laranxa Cater & Bites

STEPS FOR STUDENTS

FEBRUARY 18TH, 2017 What is Steps for Students?

Steps for Students 5K Run/Walk welcomes runners and walkers of all ages across the Archdiocese of Galveston–Houston to enjoy a USATF sanctioned 5K race and day of family fun in support of our Catholic schools!

Why should we participate

STEPS FOR STUDENTS SCHOOL–WIDE GOALS 50 team registrants: Student registrants who are registered to participate by Feb. 5th will silly string administration on an episode of DNN (Dolphin News Network).

– GOAL MET! 75+ team registrants: All students will enjoy a week of music at lunch.– GOAL MET! UPCOMING STEPS FOR STUDENTS EVENTS:

in Steps for Students?

Because you know that Catholic schools are making a difference in the lives of our students and in our communities.

How do I sign–up?

Online Registration for Steps for Students is now open—click here to join the St. Anthony of Padua team!

Already registered?

Yay! We can’t wait to see you on February 18th! Be sure to encourage your students to ask friends and family to support their participation in Steps for Students through their online fundraising page!

Registration Fee Increases to $25 Wednesday, February 1st Free Shoe Day—DATE CHANGE! Friday, February 3rd All students are encouraged to wear shoes of their choice (following dress code guidelines) to show support for Steps for Students and Catholic education. $5 Free Dress Day Benefitting the STAOPCS Team Friday, February 17th All students will be encouraged to bring $5 for free dress to show their support of the STAOPCS Steps for Students team.

Steps Participation Day Tuesday, February 21st All students who participated in the Steps for Students 5K on Saturday, February 18, 2017, (either walking/running or volunteering) will be encouraged to wear their Steps shirt/ jeans/shoes of their choice (following dress code guidelines) to school.

ATHLETICS SPRING SPORTS! SAOPCS Spring Sports Sign–ups are going on NOW. The Deadline is: TODAY: Friday, January 20th.

Baseball – Boys: Grades 7th & 8th – Practices and Home games will be held at Spring Klein Baseball Park (field 7), 22418 Rothwood Rd, Spring, TX 77389

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The first practice is Monday, February 6th @ 4–6 p.m.

Softball – Girls: Grades 6th, 7th & 8th – Practices and Games will be held at Alden Bridge Sports Complex, 4751 TX 242 The Woodlands, TX 77382.

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The first practice is Monday, February 6th @ 4–6 p.m.

Track – Boys & Girls: Grades 5th, 6th, 7th, & 8th —Practices are held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4– 6 p.m.—at The Woodlands High School 9th Grade Campus, 10010 Branch Crossing Dr. The Woodlands, TX 77382. Meets will be held at various schools throughout the Houston area – TBA

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The first practice is Wednesday, February 1 @ 4—6 p.m.

Please return your commitment forms to Mr. Quickel as soon as possible. Spring Sports Sign–up form is found in ParentsWeb under Resources. Sign–up form deadline is TODAY! Friday, January 20th.

16TH ANNUAL GALA SIGN–UP PARTIES ARE OPEN FOR REGISTRATION! Paduan Palette Painting Party is right around the corner!!

Make plans now to attend. Please visit the Gala website to see all of our offerings at 501auctions.com/staopcs.

HOW CAN YOU HELP? Donate or help us in gathering items for the auction – We are accepting donations for all areas of the auction!

NEW THIS YEAR: We have conveniently set up a gift registry at Amazon.com.

Additionally, maybe you have a vacation home to offer or tickets to the theater or a sporting event; these are always popular items! Or you can collaborate with other families and put together a big–ticket item, such as a trip, a painting class for girlfriends, use your imagination! Whatever you choose to donate, you can submit your items easily through our auction website! Thank you for your support of this fun event!!

Please feel free to email advancement@staopcs.org if you have any questions!

AROUND STAOPCS 1st Grade Saints Project

Spirit Week half–time show!

Thank you to everyone who contributed books, school supplies and sports equipment to Super Kids– Super Sharing!

AROUND OUR PARISH

REGISTRATION JAN. 21ST FROM 11:30–1:30 PM ONLY