The Messenger - December 8, 2017

THE MESSENGER December 8, 2017 staopcs.org

SOLEMNITY

OF THE IMMACULATE

CONCEPTION

OF THE

BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. –Luke 1:30

MESSAGE FROM ADMINISTRATION Dear School Families, It is hard to believe that the close of 2017 is only a few short weeks away. January will bring the start of a brand new year. It will be an opportunity to reflect on the fall semester and changes that have brought about growth along with the many accomplishments and blessings. The new year is also a time to make "resolutions" for the future. Each year our school's "resolutions" revolve around improving classroom instruction, helping our students grow into respectful and responsible young men and women, and most importantly guiding our students in their faith journey as Disciples of Christ. We do this in partnership with you as parents. We want everyone to know how much we appreciate your cooperation and support for the work we do daily.

The month of December brings a new character trait, honesty, for us to work on as we build our culture of discipleship during this Advent Season. Honesty is telling the truth and admitting wrongdoing. It is never cheating, stealing, or plagiarizing. The Bible says a lot about honesty, as God has called all Christians to be honest people. Christ said that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. If Christ is Truth, then we know being dishonest in any way moves us away from Christ.

Being honest is about following in God’s footsteps. Honesty is a direct reflection of our inner character and we know that character plays a big role in where we go in life. Honesty is a characteristic that people in your future will value and look for in you. Being honest is not always easy. We need to work at being truthful even when the temptations to lie or be dishonest exist. We live as Disciples of Christ and therefore, honesty should be a focus for each one of us during Advent and always.

Last week we launched a Family Survey on several topics including culture and climate, Catholic identity and charism, communication and Parker Uniforms. We have received 50+ responses and we hope that number will grow significantly before the survey closes on Wednesday, December 20th. Everyone’s input and opinions are important. We hope all families will take a few minutes to complete the survey. We are looking forward to Christmas programs and concerts in the coming days. Classroom Christmas parties will be lots of fun and a great way to end the first semester and 2017. It's hard to believe that Christmas break is just a little over a week away!

Our focus on Advent continues! When we gather at table with our parish family this weekend for Mass, we celebrate the second Sunday of Advent. In the Gospel we will hear about the preaching of John the Baptist and his message that one mightier than he was coming. Maybe we’ll attend the same Mass and get to see you there! May Advent bring God's blessings to you and yours.

Reneé B. Nunez

Susan Leddy

Kendall Shamas

Principal

Assistant Principal

Assistant Principal

FOLLOW US @STAOPCS ON:

2018-2019 Registration Information Campus Tours of Common Areas

Registration Timeline

Thursday, January 11 | 10:00 a.m.

Thursday, January 18 | 10:00 a.m.

Thursday, January 25 | 10:00 a.m.

Monday, January 22 | Registration Opens for Returning Families Wednesday, January 31 | Registration Closes for Returning Families Monday, February 5| Registration Opens for New Students Wednesday, February 14 | Registration Closes for New Students Saturday, February 24 | Screening Day for New Student Applicants Friday, March 9 | Decision Emails Sent

Future Family Open House Thursday, February 1 | 6:30 p.m.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2017 CALENDAR Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

11

12

13

14

15

Mass (8-2), 9 a.m.

Rosary en Español, 2:30 p.m.

$1 T-shirt & Jean Day Benefiting Star of Hope

20

21

22

Rosary, 8:30 a.m.

18

19

Rosary, 8:30 a.m.

Mass (7-1), 9 a.m.

Early Release, 2:15 & 2:30 p.m.

Christmas Break!

Beyond the Bell closes at Dismissal 25

26

27

28

29

4

5

Merry Christmas Christmas Break!

1

2

3

Happy New Year Christmas Break!

Classes resume January 8, 2018 8 Rosary, 8:30 a.m.

9

10

11

Celebrate & Rosary en Español, Communicate, 2:30 p.m.

Paduan Parent Info session, 8:15 a.m.

Mass (Faculty), 9 a.m.

12

ALL–SCHOOL NEWS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

SPIRIT NIGHT Flippin’ Pizza 30340 FM 2978 Rd, #750 Magnolia, TX 77354 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12TH 5—9 PM Good on dine-in or take-out! No Flyer necessary!

The class with the highest participation will win free slice cards for everyone in the class!

CAREER DAY CHAMPION  We have added a new Champion role to the Paduan Parent Org Chart this year, Career Day! This special event is tentatively scheduled for Friday, April 20, 2018. If you are interested in working with our counselor, Mrs. O’Connor to assist in organizing this event, please contact advancement@staopcs.org.

Click the logo to view our YouTube channel to watch past episodes of DNN, Mission Matters Presentations, and more!

FAMILY SURVEY Continuous school improvement can only happen with input from our school community. Your feedback is essential as we work to better serve you and create a positive experience at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School. Please complete the following brief survey (one per family) by Wednesday, December 20, 2017. This survey focuses on specific topics—there will be another survey in 2018 to address academics, homework and more.

Hard copies went home last week—or you may complete it online at: http://bit.ly/STAOPCSSurvey2017 NURSE’S NOTES Nurse Notes from December 1, 2017 to December 7, 2017: 12-4-17 12-5-17 12-5-17 12-5-17

1A 2A KB 3B

*Possible* Flu Influenza A Pink Eye Pink Eye and Viral infection

There are several viral infections with fever and cough going around. Please make sure you remind your children to wash hands frequently and to cover and cough or cough in the bend of the arm to help with the spread of germs.

HOMECOMING PHOTOS TopScore Photography graciously photographed our Homecoming game this year! You can click the photo above to view the gallery. 10% of all purchases will be donated back to STAOPCS! Username: St. Anthony of Padua Homecoming Game 2017 Password: 54751

PRE-K3 & PRE-K4 CHRISTMAS PROGRAM FRIDAY, DEC. 15TH 2:00 P.M. | GYM 1ST & 2ND GRADE CHRISTMAS PROGRAM

GIVE YOUR STUDENTS SOMETHING THEY’LL TREASURE YEARS FROM NOW—THE GIFT OF MEMORIES! Order your 2017-2018 yearbook at www.balfour.com $40.00—Price increases to $45 on Jan. 1st!

TUESDAY, DEC.19TH 5:30 P.M. | GYM

BAND AND MIDDLE SCHOOL CHOIR CHRISTMAS CONCERT TUESDAY, DEC.19TH 7:00 PM | GYM

COUNSELOR’S CORNER BY JANAY O’CONNOR It is hard to believe that 2017 is coming to an end…Wishing you many blessings as we await the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

The character trait for December is Honesty (Integrity & Truthfulness). Honesty means being truthful in word and action and reliable in carrying out commitments, obligations and duties.

IMPORTANT DATES FOR DECEMBER 

Eighth graders who are interested in applying to the Catholic high schools or other private schools should start working on their applications and submit teacher recommendation forms (if required) to Janay O’Connor.



Middle School Exams are scheduled for Tuesday, December 12, Wednesday, December 13, and Thursday, December 14.

IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES 

The Love and Logic Parent Training will begin Thursday, January 11, 2018. The training is free and will last six weeks. Classes will be held on Thursdays from 1—3 pm at the St. Anthony of Padua Parish Life Building Room 204. Love and Logic helps raise responsible kids and provides simple and practical techniques to help parents with kids of all ages. Love and Logic is a philosophy founded by Jim Fay and Foster W. Cline, M.D. It is the approach of choice among leading educators, parents, and other professionals worldwide. Please contact Janay O’Connor, School Counselor at joconnor@staopcs.org or (832)482-4168 if you are interested in signing up.



The Entrance Exam for all Catholic High Schools is scheduled for Saturday, January 20, 2018, with the exception of Duchesne and St. Agnes.

STEPS FOR STUDENTS STEPS FOR STUDENTS 5K | FEBRUARY 17, 2018 REGISTER TODAY @ STEPS4STUDENTS.ORG This exciting day of family fun includes a 5K USA Track and Field Association sanctioned race and post-race party! Help to raise funds and awareness for Catholic education by joining the St. Anthony of Padua team!  All students registered by Wednesday, January 10th @ 4 p.m. will be invited to a New Year ’s Party on Friday, January 12th in the gym from 7:40 a.m. until after morning announcements.

We will celebrate with music, balloons, small giveaways, donuts and milk!

 If we reach 200 team registrants Mrs. Nunez will KISS A PIG on DNN!

LUCKY HEARTS GALA

FUND FOR ST. ANTHONY WHY 100% PARTICIPATION? Because each child is an important part of the St. Anthony community, our goal is for every family to make a gift every year to the Fund for St. Anthony.

There is strength in numbers – many gifts add up to a large sum each year, and every gift makes a difference no matter the amount. The cumulative effect of consistently high participation propels us even further and speaks to our shared commitment to our students and our school.

WHEN AND HOW CAN I GIVE?

With the proposed tax reform your donation may be worth more this year than next. Check with your tax advisor!



You can give anytime, when it is best for your family! The Fund for St. Anthony campaign will conclude June 30, 2018.



We accept cash, check, credit card, appreciated securities.



Online giving is available for one-time gifts or recurring gifts may be made through the Parish online giving portal.



Many employers offer matching programs that could double or triple your gift; we encourage you to check with your company.

Classroom P articipation in the Fund for St. A nthony 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

65%

56%

50%

44% 41% 38% 38% 37% 35% 35% 34% 32% 32% 31% 31% 31% 29% 28%

20% 16% 14% 13%

FUND FOR ST. ANTHONY Mr. & Mrs. Patrick McKenna Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Oghena Mr. & Mrs. Randy Pais Mr. & Mrs. Brian Twellman Mr. & Mrs. William Stamps Dr. & Mrs. Jason Strecker Mr. & Mrs. William Walker Mr. & Mrs. Brad Walters Dr. & Mrs. Kevin Whatley

THE LEADERSHIP SOCIETY Pastor’s Circle Mr. & Mrs. Steven Brady Ms. Shaune Stauffer Beacon of Light Mr. & Mrs. David Doucet Mr. & Mrs. Joe Fedele Dr. & Mrs. Christopher Fedoruk Mr. & Mrs. James Little Mr. & Mrs. Sam Perkins Mr. & Mrs. Jason Rivers Circle of Saints Mr. & Mrs. Alfredo Amparan Mr. & Mrs. Geoff Beatty Mr. & Mrs. Michael Bell Mr. & Mrs. John Bong Mr. & Mrs. Navell Carrone Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Castillo Mr. & Mrs. Rodrigo DeAguirre The Gonzalez-Vizzani Family Ms. Bridget Hebert Mr. & Mrs. Lane Lease The Lorenzetti Family Mr. & Mrs. Billy Martin Mr. & Mrs. Gabriel Nahigian Mr. & Mrs. Chip Nunez Stephanie & John Ourso The Piefer Family Mr. & Mrs. Marco Poisler Mr. & Mrs. José Ramirez Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Sloan Mr. & Mrs. David Tressel Mr. & Mrs. Brian Velardo Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Walker Mr. & Mrs. Michael Wing PADUAN PATRONS Blue & Green Club Mr. & Mrs. Roberto Abib Mr. & Mrs. Kurt Bitting Mr. & Mrs. Mark Boyd Mr. & Mrs. Hal Brumfield Mr. & Mrs. Phillip Dickinson Mr. & Mrs. Harvey Graeve Mr. & Mrs. Matt Gregory Mr. & Mrs. Brian Hayes Mr. & Mrs. James Kalke Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Kemp Dr. & Mrs. Andrew Larkin Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Martinez Mr. & Mrs. Bruce McIninch

Friends of St. Anthony Mr. & Mrs. Eduardo Betancourt Mr. & Mrs. Byron Blaschke Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Brennan Rosalia & Brian Burke Mr. & Mrs. Paul Carroll Mr. & Mrs. Greg Childress Mr. & Mrs. Paul Coleman Mr. & Mrs. Stan Doiron Mr. & Mrs. Jason Enia Mr. & Mrs. Steve Fantazia Mr. Gordon Kloesel Mr. & Mrs. Chase Lambin Paula & Mark Lee Mr. & Mrs. Brett Merritt Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Rabalais Mr. & Mrs. Michael Ross The Sanchez-León Family Mr. & Mrs. Brandy Snipp Shelby & Josh Veach Mr. & Mrs. Matthew White Supporters of St. Anthony Anonymous Mr. & Mrs. David Aldrich Mr. & Mrs. Danny Amador Mr. & Mrs. Tom Anderson Mr. & Mrs. Eduardo Arana Mr. & Mrs. Tito Bernardo Mr. & Mrs. Paolo Biagi Mr. & Mrs. Chris Bierbaum Mr. & Mrs. Ronnie Bilnoski Ms. Teresa Bishop Mr. & Mrs. Tim Booth Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan Brignac Ms. Patricia Broussard Mr. & Mrs. Kelley Carson Mr. & Mrs. Jerome Cavaluzzi Mr. & Mrs. Jose Cervantes Mrs. Carita Christiansen Mr. & Mrs. James Cooper Mr. & Mrs. Eduardo Correa Dr. & Mr. Mark Coscio Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Cunningham Jill & Ronny Daigle Mr. & Mrs. John R. Daigle Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Dalton Mr. & Mrs. Rodrigo DeAzevedo Mr. & Mrs. Michael Dohm Mr. & Mrs. Frank Dompnier Kristy & Arthur Doyle Mr. & Mrs. Perry Dueitt Mr. & Mrs. Emile Dufrene Mrs. Suzanne Ettman Mr. & Mrs. Paul Evanko Mr. & Mrs. Juan Failde Mr. & Mrs. Steve Fantazia Tammy & Carey Fishman Dr. Feride Frech Mr. & Mrs. Ruben Garcia Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Garza Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Gillispie Mr. & Mrs. Mark Glanville Ms. Kari Golden Ms. Kathy Graff

Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Grimm Mr. & Mrs. John Held Mr. & Mrs. Eric Heuring Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Hill Mr. & Mrs. David Hollas Mr. & Mrs. Joel Hron Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Jannes Mr. & Mrs. Barton Joffrion Mr. & Mrs. Pete Johnson Mr. & Mrs. Mackie Jouett Mr. Thomas Juranek Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Kerrigan Mr. & Mrs. Jay Kinch Mr. & Mrs. Michael Koett Dr. & Mrs. Neven Krstulovic The Kwiatkowski Family Mr. & Mrs. Steve Lastrapes Dr. & Mr. Shane Leahey Susan & Matt Leddy Mr. & Mrs. Joseph LeMaster Mr. & Mrs. Bryan Lipinski Mr. & Mrs. Jaime Loyo Mr. & Mrs. Franklin Marsan Mr. & Mrs. Cristofer Mattern Mr. & Mrs. Patrick McKenna Mr. & Mrs. Kenny Miller Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Mims Mr. & Mrs. Robert Mims Mr. & Mrs. Charles Miotke Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Moe Mr. & Mrs. Craig Moorman Dr. & Mrs. Michael Morris Mr. & Mrs. Rodrigo Munguia The Naeher Family Miss Carah Nunez Mr. & Mrs. Christopher O’Connor Mr. & Mrs. Tommy O’Connor Mary & Jim O’Neill Mr. Cesar Ortiz & Mrs. Patricia Tamez Mr. & Mrs. Fazil Osman Ms. Kristi Parks Mr. & Mrs. Mike Pavlich Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Pavlock Ms. Gayle Perkins Mr. & Mrs. Robert Picone J.A. Quillian Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Rangel Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Reyes Mr. & Mrs. Gaston Rodriguez & Family Mr. & Mrs. Michael Romer Mr. & Mrs. Melanie & Steve Romero Ms. Cynthia Ruff Mr. & Mrs. Tim Russell Mr. & Mrs. Jason Schmidt Mr. & Mrs. Mark Shamas, Jr. Ms. Makira Shannon Mr. & Mrs. Josh Smith Ms Judi Strapp Mr. & Mrs. Brett Sturgeon Mr. & Mrs. Michael Surkein Dr. & Mrs. Nelson Tajong Mr. & Mrs. Carmen Vito Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Waller Mr. & Mrs. Brad Walters Mr. & Mrs. Barton West Mr. & Mrs. Harry Winslow Ms. Cathy Wogan Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Wunch Matching Gifts Pat Morgan Plumbing Shell

AROUND STAOPCS

Thank you to our gift wrapping and Christmas luncheon coverage volunteers!

AROUND OUR PARISH

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