Category: Principal’s Post

“Be Careful Out There”

I remember that line from the TV show “Hill Street Blues.”  After the shift briefing and the police officers were all leaving to go on duty, the sergeant would always say, “Hey! Hey!  Be careful out there.”  Being careful out there applies to our families as well, particularly as everyone moves about the parking lot.  At pickup time in the afternoon, the lot is empty in about seven minutes after the dismissal bell rings.  That’s fantastic for moving 400 students around campus!  Speed, however, isn’t the important measurement; safety is.  Please be careful as you move about the campus as a pedestrian and as a driver.  Lately, it seems it’s even more important advice to which we need to adhere in the morning when people are stressed and trying to get somewhere in a hurry.  I was talking to a parent the other day who was almost hit FIVE times in our parking lot and within a one block radius of our school.   A bit more attention and even being a few seconds or minutes later to where we need to be is more than worth the life of a child.  Please be careful out there.

MobyMax

Have your children been on MobyMax outside of school?  Share your experiences with your child’s teacher so we can acquire some good feedback.  MobyMax is an online tool that we are using to supplement math instruction, primarily.  It does, however, also have modules for reading, English/language arts, social studies, and science.  It can be used both in and outside of school across a variety of platforms.  Contact your child’s homeroom teacher if you misplaced the log in information.

Bible Study for Middle School Youth

You’ve never seen a Bible study like this before!  OLV’s Faith Formation staff is offering “Encounter:  Experiencing God in the Everyday,” for 6th-8th grade students after school beginning in January.  Dates are January 24 and 31, February 7, 14, 21, and 28, and March 7 and 21.  Each session is 2:45-3:45  in the library or parish center.  Cost is $13.  There are a few books left so a few more students can register.  For more information, or if financial assistance is needed, please contact Jennifer Wemhoff at 563-391-8384 of davolvrek6@diodav.org.

Need the Bulletin?

When I don’t get a hard copy bulletin at church, I always think that I’ll just go look it up online.  Then, it seems as if I rarely do.  Here’s the link:  January 13, 2019.

Blessing Bags Collection Begins

Have an old backpack?  A drawstring sports bag?  JFK is teaming with OLV’s Christian Service Ministry to collect new or gently used backpacks or similar bags for adults.  During Lent in the spring, the bags will be filled with with non-perishable items for the homeless and distributed.  Bags can be sent to school through January 13th.

Music Boosters Trivia Night

The new date for the adults-only trivia night fund-raiser is Friday, January 18th.  It will be at the Knights of Columbus on 35th Street.  Doors will open at 6:00 p.m., trivia will start at 7:00.   The price is $100 per table with a maximum of 8 people per table. “Double Downs” and “Mulligans” are included in the price of the table this year and do not need to be purchased separately.  You may bring your own snacks, but drinks are to be purchased from the Knights of Columbus.  Cash prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place teams.  All proceeds go to the JFK Music Boosters in support of the 5th – 8th-grade Music Programs.  Contact Ethan Connors at ethan.connors@olvjfkmail.com to reserve your space.

Better yet, attend the boosters’ meeting on January 7th at 6:30 p.m. in the library.

The Holidays Were Different But Still About Family

We did things a little different this year through the holidays, and it reminded us all of the importance of family.  Actually, these feelings began to be felt deeply before Thanksgiving as Lynn’s mother’s health was not well.  In fact, Lynn and I were actually concerned that Donna might not make it until our children could see her again.  It’s hard to say to your kids, however, that you had better get home and cherish the time you have with Grandma because you never know if she’s going to be around much longer.  My oldest daughter, Colleen, was able to visit a couple of weeks before Thanksgiving, and our other three children were home for Thanksgiving.  Thanksgiving itself was very nice.  Many cooks made for a delightful meal with family all gathered together.  It was, again, at my in-law’s house as my mother-in-law was on oxygen, and those portable units just didn’t do enough to help.  In fact, the only time she had been leaving the house for months now had been to go to doctor appointments, and even those trips were a struggle.

As we moved into December, my mother-in-law’s health continued to deteriorate.  Lynn and her siblings continued to care for her while also respecting her choices.  Around December 8th, we really weren’t sure how much longer she would make it.  We even struggled with having a priest administer the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick.  While we know this sacrament isn’t “last rites” any more, in this situation, we still wanted Donna to receive the sacrament, but we also didn’t want her to think it’s the end.  We are so grateful that Fr. Jake helped us through that mental/emotional turmoil, and he came to the house to celebrate the Sacrament.  Donna, in fact, seemed to be lifted up in spirits too.

Unfortunately, lifted in spirits didn’t translate to better health.  Within a couple of days, Donna did have to be admitted to the hospital.  With different treatments that were able to be done in the hospital, however, Donna was released a few days later with a renewed feeling that something could be done.  We also were able to have conversations with her that the big family gatherings for Christmas (cookie day and Christmas Eve) would have to be different this year.  Instead of one big cookie day with all the grandchildren helping to decorate sugar cookies, there were multiple, more private sessions.  Instead of a huge gathering of family with gifts going in every direction at my in-laws, it was a calmer gathering with conversation and good fellowship.  Everyone was able to have just as much fun without as much stress for Donna.  With all of my own children home for at least a week around Christmas, we were also able to just stop by at times to visit Grandma during Christmas break.

I could feel that things were winding down for my family by December 28th.  Colleen went back to Charlotte, NC, and Tom moved to Charleston, SC.  Lynn and I returned to work in early January, and Kirsten began substitute teaching at Lourdes.  On January 5, Caitlin returned to Kansas to have some time with friends before her semester began.  Without family around, it really did seem like the holidays were over for Lynn and me, and we put the decorations away.  It’s done.  Back to the normal routines, and back to the struggles with Donna’s health.

Perhaps the Lord, however, said “Not so fast.  You need to gather again.”  Early Saturday morning, Donna, again, went to the hospital.  Kirsten and I arrived just in time to participate in Fr. Nicholas’ administering of the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, and Donna passed away shortly thereafter.  I have been so blessed to have been welcomed into Donna and Jim’s family.  One more time this winter, we will gather together as one very large family to celebrate Eucharist, mourn, laugh, and share in life with one another.

Chad

MobyMax

Have your children been on MobyMax outside of school?  Share your experiences with your child’s teacher so we can acquire some good feedback.  MobyMax is an online tool that we are using to supplement math instruction, primarily.  It does, however, also have modules for reading, English/language arts, social studies, and science.  It can be used both in and outside of school across a variety of platforms.  Contact your child’s homeroom teacher if you misplaced the log in information.

Bible Study for Middle School Youth

You’ve never seen a Bible study like this before!  OLV’s Faith Formation staff is offering “Encounter:  Experiencing God in the Everyday,” for 6th-8th grade students after school beginning in January.  Dates are January 24 and 31, February 7, 14, 21, and 28, and March 7 and 21.  Each session is 2:45-3:45  in the library or parish center.  Cost is $13, and registration is due by January 7th.  For more information, or if financial assistance is needed, please contact Jennifer Wemhoff at 563-391-8384 of davolvrek6@diodav.org.

Need the Bulletin?

When I don’t get a hard copy bulletin at church, I always think that I’ll just go look it up online.  Then, it seems as if I rarely do.  Here’s the link: January 6, 2019.

Blessing Bags Collection Begins

Have an old backpack?  A drawstring sports bag?  JFK is teaming with OLV’s Christian Service Ministry to collect new or gently used backpacks or similar bags for adults.  During Lent in the spring, the bags will be filled with with non-perishable items for the homeless and distributed.  Bags can be sent to school through January 13th.

K & 3rd Grade Hearing and Vision Screenings

Hearing and vision screenings will take place for 3rd graders on Wednesday.

Parish Appreciation Party — All JFK Adults Invited

To express thanks to all who perform service for our parish and school community, a FREE party will be hosted for adults on January 12th.  Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with food served at 6:00 p.m. Beverages, desserts and substantial hors d’oeuvres will be served.  If you pray, sing, perform a liturgical role, donate food, serve on a committee, coach, volunteer, etc., you are invited.  Please RSVP to the parish office (563-391-4245).

Music Boosters Trivia Night

The new date for the adults-only trivia night fund-raiser is Friday, January 18th.  It will be at the Knights of Columbus on 35th Street.  Doors will open at 6:00 p.m., trivia will start at 7:00.   The price is $100 per table with a maximum of 8 people per table. “Double Downs” and “Mulligans” are included in the price of the table this year and do not need to be purchased separately.  You may bring your own snacks, but drinks are to be purchased from the Knights of Columbus.  Cash prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place teams.  All proceeds go to the JFK Music Boosters in support of the 5th – 8th-grade Music Programs.  Contact Ethan Connors at ethan.connors@olvjfkmail.com to reserve your space.

Better yet, attend the boosters’ meeting on January 7th at 6:30 p.m. in the library.

What Did We Learn — About Skipping?

As I enter the 6th hour of work this Sunday, all those wonderful things I mentally wrote in the Principal’s Post all week just aren’t going to make it to paper!  I will, however, end with a story of which I was reminded by seeing a post on our JFK Moms and Dads Facebook group.  (If you’d like to be a member of this group, please contact Angie in the office:  angie.hillebrand@olvjfkmail.com.)

As I was walking down the hall about six weeks ago, I saw a younger student come out of the restroom and go skipping down the hall back to her class.  I thought to myself, “She looks so happy.  I wonder if skipping makes you happy.”  So, I tried it.  Making sure no one would see me, I skipped down the hall myself.  Sure enough, it is impossible to skip and not be happy at the same time!

And it continues….  I’ve relayed this story to probably a dozen staff members.  One morning before Christmas as I was standing in the hall watching for late arriving students, one of the staff members sent an older student down the hall to see me.  He was skipping and as happy as could be when he told me that I was right, it’s impossible to skip and not be happy at the same time.

Chad

MobyMax

Have your children been on MobyMax outside of school?  Share your experiences with your child’s teacher so we can acquire some good feedback.  MobyMax is an online tool that we are using to supplement math instruction, primarily.  It does, however, also have modules for reading, English/language arts, social studies, and science.  It can be used both in and outside of school across a variety of platforms.  Contact your child’s homeroom teacher if you misplaced the log in information.

Catholic Schools Week

Catholic Schools Week is right around the corner, beginning with the all school 4:30 Mass on January 26th followed by the spaghetti dinner and open house.  Details will be sent home within the next couple of weeks.

Bible Study for Middle School Youth

You’ve never seen a Bible study like this before!  OLV’s Faith Formation staff is offering “Encounter:  Experiencing God in the Everyday,” for 6th-8th grade students after school beginning in January.  Dates are January 24 and 31, February 7, 14, 21, and 28, and March 7 and 21.  Each session is 2:45-3:45  in the library or parish center.  Cost is $13, and registration is due by January 7th.  For more information, or if financial assistance is needed, please contact Jennifer Wemhoff at 563-391-8384 of davolvrek6@diodav.org.

Need the Bulletin?

When I don’t get a hard copy bulletin at church, I always think that I’ll just go look it up online.  Then, it seems as if I rarely do.  Here’s the link: December 30, 2018.

Blessing Bags Collection Begins

Have an old backpack?  A drawstring sports bag?  JFK is teaming with OLV’s Christian Service Ministry to collect new or gently used backpacks or similar bags for adults.  During Lent in the spring, the bags will be filled with with non-perishable items for the homeless and distributed.  Bags can be sent to school through January 13th.

Welcome Mrs. Antle in PE

Mrs. Antle will be assuming PE duties at JFK for about four weeks when Mrs. Tilkens has her baby.  Mrs. Tilkens’ little one is due within a week.

K & 3rd Grade Hearing and Vision Screenings

Hearing and vision screenings will take place for 3rd graders next Wednesday.

Parish Appreciation Party — All JFK Adults Invited

To express thanks to all who perform service for our parish and school community, a FREE party will be hosted for adults on January 12th.  Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with food served at 6:00 p.m. Beverages, desserts and substantial hors d’oeuvres will be served.  If you pray, sing, perform a liturgical role, donate food, serve on a committee, coach, volunteer, etc., you are invited.  Please RSVP to the parish office (563-391-4245).

Policy Revisions

The board made changes to the following two policies in December.  The complete policies are listed below, and they have also been updated in our handbook online:

Policy 561

Student Records

In accordance with state law, JFK maintains a permanent office record and cumulative record for each student.  Student records shall be kept confidential, “unless otherwise ordered by the court, by the lawful custodian of the records, or by another person duly authorized to release such information.” (Iowa Code § 22.7.) Release of information found on these records must be in compliance with state and federal guidelines.

The permanent office record shall serve as a historical record of official information concerning the student’s education. At a minimum, the permanent office record should contain evidence of attendance and educational progress, serve as an official transcript, contain other data for use in planning to meet student needs, and provide data for official school and school district reports. This record is permanently maintained and stored in a fire-resistant safe or vault or can be maintained and stored electronically with a secure back-up file.

The cumulative record shall provide a continuous and current record of significant information on progress and growth. It should reflect information such as courses taken, scholastic progress, school attendance, physical and health record, experiences, interests, aptitudes, attitudes, abilities, honors, extracurricular activities, and future plans. It is the working record used by the instructional professional staff in understanding the student. At the request of a receiving school or school district, a copy of the cumulative record shall be sent to officials of that school when a student transfers.

Parents shall have access to the student’s records during the regular business hours of the school.  Upon the request of parents, the school shall provide an explanation and interpretation of the student records and a list of the types and locations of education records collected, maintained or used by the school.

Student records may be disclosed in limited circumstances without parental or eligible student’s written permission. This disclosure is made on the condition that the student record will not be disclosed to a third party without the written permission of the parents.  The disclosure may be made to the following individuals or under the following circumstances:

• to school officials and AEA personnel who have a legitimate educational interest, including, but not limited to, employees, school attorney, auditor, and health professionals;
• to officials of the area Catholic high school or another school or school district in which the student wishes to enroll;
• to the U.S. Comptroller General, the U.S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education or state and local educational authorities;
• in connection with financial aid for which the family has applied;
• to organizations conducting educational studies and the study does not release personally identifiable information;
• to accrediting organizations;
• to parents of a dependent student as defined by the Internal Revenue Code;
• to comply with a court order or judicially issued subpoena;
• consistent with an interagency agreement between the school district and juvenile justice agencies;
• in connection with a health or safety emergency; or,
• as directory information

School office personnel shall keep a list of individuals, agencies or organizations which have requested or obtained access to a student’s records, the date access was given and their legitimate educational interest or purpose for which they were authorized to view the records.  The school, however, does not need to keep a list of the parents, authorized educational employees, officers and agencies of the school who have accessed the student’s records.

Special education is under the authority of the Davenport Community School District.  Special education records may be accessed according to the DCSD’s policies.

JFK will cooperate with the juvenile justice system in sharing information contained in student records regarding students who have become involved with the juvenile justice system.  JFK will enter into an interagency agreement with the juvenile justice agency (agencies) involved.

JFK may share any information with the agencies contained in a student’s record which is directly related to the juvenile justice system’s ability to effectively serve the student.  Information shared pursuant to the agreement shall be used solely for determining the programs and services appropriate to the needs of the student or student’s family or coordinating the delivery of programs and services to the student or student’s family.

Confidential information shared between the school and the agencies shall remain confidential and shall not be shared with any other person, unless otherwise provided by law.  Information shared under the agreement is not admissible in any court proceedings which take place prior to a disposition hearing, unless written consent is obtained from a student’s parent, guardian, or legal or actual custodian.  The school district may discontinue information sharing with an agency if the school district determines that the agency has violated the intent or letter of the agreement.

Surveillance video maintained by the school or that comes into the school’s possession and was used to make decisions in the educational setting is an “educational record” as well.  Notes used for disciplinary decisions are also considered educational records.

Parents or legal guardians of students under the age of 18 have the right to inspect and review their child’s educational records, including video that has become an educational record.  They do not have a right to a copy of the video, but they do have a right to a copy of other educational records.  Inspecting and reviewing video that has become an educational record may occur even if the parents of others in the video have not consented.  If video becomes an educational record due to disciplinary actions, the right to inspect and review applies to both the student disciplined and the target(s).  When disciplinary notes for disciplinary decisions have become educational records, they should be redacted to protect students’ identities.  If redaction is not possible without destroying the meaning, the statements can be inspected and reviewed without consent of other students’ parents.

Parents also have the right to request that the school amend the records if they feel that the information is misleading or inaccurate.  If the school does not wish to amend the records, the parents or legal guardians have the right to a hearing and to place an explanatory letter in the child’s file explaining why they feel the records are misleading or inaccurate.

The school will provide training or instruction to employees about parents’ rights under this policy.  Employees shall also be informed about the procedures for carrying out this policy.

It shall be the responsibility of the school to annually notify parents of their right to inspect and review their student’s records.  This notification is achieved through the publication of the policy in the parent and student handbook, which is acknowledged as having been accessed and read by a parent or guardian on an annual basis.  Parents have a right to file a complaint alleging the school failed to comply with this policy.

Policy Adopted:  July 12, 2005;  Policy Revised:  June 14, 2018; December 4, 2018; Policy Reviewed:  May 6, 2008; May 3, 2011; May 6, 2014; June 6, 2017

Policy 757.14

Lunch Program Family Account Balances

Students may purchase a hot lunch from our pre-pay lunch program.  Rates for the hot lunch meal, “milk only,” and “extras” of the main entrée will be posted regularly.  Checks should be made out to “JFK Lunch Program.”  The amount of the check will be posted to a family account.  As the students eat from the hot lunch program, the cost will be deducted from the family account balance.  Account balances are communicated regularly.  Balances can also be checked on-line.

School officials will check lunch balances each week.  Students whose family balance is negative $35 or more will not be served “extras” until a positive balance is seen at a following weekly lunch balance check.  Families are notified of the opportunity to apply for free and/or reduced lunches weekly.

Families that remain on the negative balance list for the second consecutive week will be notified via email providing options of how the family lunch balance can be managed:

1. Pay the negative balance and deposit funds into the family lunch account.
2. Parent may provide written request to the school to withhold hot lunch meals from the student.
3. Complete an application for free/reduced lunch. A denied application will not reduce the debt, and another option will need to be chosen.
4. Work lunch duties (more than four may be possible) and have the lunch duty fee reimbursement applied to the lunch account.

Families may always apply for free and/or reduced lunches with forms available in the office and on our website.  The applications are also distributed to ALL families at least at the beginning of the school year.  New applications are needed each year.

“It is the policy of JFK not to discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or religion in its programs, activities, or employment practices as required by the Iowa Code section 216.7 and 216.9.  If you have questions or grievances related to compliance with this policy by (name of CNP Provider), please contact the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, Grimes State Office Building, 400 E. 14th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319-1004;  phone number 515-281-4121, 800-457-4416;  web site:  http://www.state.ia.us/government/crc/index.html.”

Policy Adopted:  June 5, 2007; Policy Reviewed:  April 12, 2010; May 7, 2013;  Policy Revised:  April 5, 2016; June 6, 2017; December 4, 2018

How Does Sharing and Living Your Faith Keep Your Family Together?

If we want the next generation to experience the joy of the Catholic faith, then it is up to us to show and share that being Catholic has made a difference in our lives and in how we have lived as family and faith community.

“…[Y]oung adults arrive at a sense of their fundamental identity and worldview not by weighting all possible intellectual arguments for and against a proposed way of life, but rather by roughly adopting the worldview of those mentors who left the deepest impression upon them–and who loved them.  It should come as no surprise, then, that the emergence of the new generation of dedicated young Catholics will rise and fall with the choices of their parents” (p. 70).  These remarks are the concluding statement from a 2018 report by Justin Bartkus and Christian Smith out of Notre Dame:  ‘Ask Your father and he will tell you:’ A Report on American Catholic Religious Parenting.”

Going to Mass every weekend with four children was not always easy.  I was always nervous about arriving late and trying to find seating for six.  We ended up sitting near the front but to one side.  I’d like to think that we sat toward the front because we wanted the kids to be able to see what was happening.  The reality, however, is that we were running late on many weekends, and, as you well know, the empty seats are always in the front of the church!

Some of you, I’m sure, can relate to the following seating pattern that we used:

Son     Daughter     Dad     Daughter     Mom     Daughter

I don’t know how many years passed before I ever sat next to my wife again at Mass!

It wasn’t until my kids were probably starting to leave the nest that my thinking began to change.  It went from “Oh my goodness, we’re going to be late again” to “At least we’re at Mass.”

Going to Mass as a family was one of the few activities that we did together each week.  It was even more regular, it seemed, than eating a meal together.  It was what kept us grounded together as family.  Today, often with no children at home any more, it’s still a special time for Lynn and I to connect; it’s “date morning” with the reminder of the sacraments, including marriage as a sacrament.

How does sharing and living your faith keep your family together?

5th Grade Flag Essay — Clean Sweep

JFK students had a clean sweep in the area’s fifth grade flag essay taking all three spots:

First place:  Wrigley M.          Second place:  Mili M.          Tied for third:  Laila M. and Brooklyn M.

Lego League

Congratulations to JFK’s Lego League teams.  They won the Lego League Core Values award for embodying the values of Lego League.  Our 6th grade White team was also #1 in the league and in the tournament.

MobyMax Information

Have your children been on MobyMax yet outside of school?  A separate message regarding MobyMax, including log in information, went home in backpack mail (youngest/only) around November 30th.   MobyMax is an online tool that we are going to use to supplement math instruction, primarily.  It does, however, also have modules for reading, English/language arts, social studies, and science.  It can be used both in and outside of school across a variety of platforms.  Something to do during that long Christmas break!

Special Dates

For a complete list, please check our website calendars.  Please also check backpack mail for information that is grade or homeroom specific.

• Dec 17:  3rd grade Gingerbread Houses (A tradition you’ll all remember!).  5th-8th out of uniform.
• Dec 18:  Civic Oration PC Rnd (which will really be in the gym this year).  K-2 Christmas Show, 6 p.m.  K-2 out of uniform during the day.
• Dec 19:  K-2 Christmas Show for the school after our 7:40 a.m. all school Mass.  Red/Green/White/Christmas attire.  Special Dismissal at 12:40.  No afternoon PS classes.
• Dec 20-Jan 2:  Christmas Break
• Jan 3:  Classes resume

Bible Study for Middle School Youth

You’ve never seen a Bible study like this before!  OLV’s Faith Formation staff is offering “Encounter:  Experiencing God in the Everyday,” for 6th-8th grade students after school beginning in January.  Dates are January 24 and 31, February 7, 14, 21, and 28, and March 7 and 21.  Each session is 2:45-3:45  in the library or parish center.  Cost is $13, and registration is due by January 7th.  For more information, or if financial assistance is needed, please contact Jennifer Wemhoff at 563-391-8384 of davolvrek6@diodav.org.

Need the Bulletin?

When I don’t get a hard copy bulletin at church, I always think that I’ll just go look it up online.  Then, it seems as if I rarely do.  Here’s the link:  December 16, 2018.

Use Victory Vouchers for Your Holiday Shopping

Victory Vouchers are gift cards that one can purchase for over 7,000 different vendors.  You buy the gift card through OLV or online and receive the full face value of the card.  The parish, however, ALSO receives a percentage of the face value.  You can even direct the parish to use some of its take to help you reduce your own family’s tuition bill!  The parish office has a wide variety of gift cards in stock.  For more information, click here:  Victory Vouchers.

Blessing Bags Collection Begins

Have an old backpack?  A drawstring sports bag?  JFK is teaming with OLV’s Christian Service Ministry to collect new or gently used backpacks or similar bags for adults.  During Lent in the spring, the bags will be filled with with non-perishable items for the homeless and distributed.  Bags can be sent to school through January 13th.

Coats for Kids and Special Dress Day

Student Council has agreed to participate in our area’s Coats for Kids.  A note went home earlier.  The last day for collection is December 18th.  Although stated together in the same letter, there is no connection between donating a used coat and our special dress day on the 19th.  All students are invited to participate in our Red/White/Green/Christmas attire special dress day on December 19th.  Just make sure it’s not too crazy as we do have Mass on the 19th as well.  (Ex:  “Antlers” may need to be removed during Mass.)

Chad

Parents Make a Difference:  Notre Dame Report on Catholic Religious Parenting

If we want the next generation to experience the joy of the Catholic faith, then it is up to us to show and share that being Catholic has made a difference in our lives and in how we have lived as family and faith community.

“…[Y]oung adults arrive at a sense of their fundamental identify and worldview not by weighting all possible intellectual arguments for and against a proposed way of life, but rather by roughly adopting the worldview of those mentors who left the deepest impression upon them–and who loved them.  It should come as no surprise, then, that the emergence of the new generation of dedicated young Catholics will rise and fall with the choices of their parents” (p. 70).  These remarks are the concluding statement from a 2018 report by Justin Bartkus and Christian Smith out of Notre Dame:  ‘Ask Your father and he will tell you:’ A Report on American Catholic Religious Parenting.”

The report begins with a sad reality, “Most committed Catholics have become aware of the drift of American Catholic youth from the Church and from the practice of their faith as they pass into adulthood” (p. 5)  It is now widely known that the drift seems to even occur as young as thirteen years old.  It’s probably not so much that youth are making a conscious choice to be in or out; it’s that it just doesn’t seem to matter or it’s just not that big of a deal.  What message are we sending when we “move heaven and earth” to make it to the sports’ tournament on the weekend but not to Mass?  When the “three things we shouldn’t talk about are money, religion, and politics” and yet we still talk about money and politics, but not our faith?  When we sing “They Will Know We are Christians by Our Love,” and yet one has to wonder?  (When I was growing up, I remember my sister’s boyfriend asking us how we could argue so much on the way home from church.  We must have done something right, though, as he converted anyway!)

The good news from the report is that parents, who are their children’s mentors and who love them, are key:  “Of all actors, it is parents who exert overwhelmingly the greatest influence upon the eventual religious views and commitments of American children” (p. 6).

How will you show to your children that your faith matters?

Advent Is a Great Time to Recommit to Mass Attendance

With the start of Advent on December 2nd, it might be a great time to recommit to regular attendance at weekend Masses.  Every year the diocese has parishes do Mass counts during the first two weekends in November.  OLV’s 2018 count was the lowest level in ten years: an average of 1,193 people (adults and children) were at Masses the first two weekends in November.  That low number seems odd as the number of OLV parishioners is at the highest level it’s been at in at least the last seven years.  Share the Word and the Eucharist together at OLV!

MobyMax Information

Have your children been on MobyMax yet outside of school?  A separate message regarding MobyMax, including log in information, went home in backpack mail (youngest/only) around November 30th.   MobyMax is an online tool that we are going to use to supplement math instruction, primarily.  It does, however, also have modules for reading, English/language arts, social studies, and science.  It can be used both in and outside of school across a variety of platforms.  Something to do during that long Christmas break!

November & December Special Dates

There’s so much happening in November and December, I can’t list it all!  For a complete list, please check our website calendars.  Please also check backpack mail for information that is grade or homeroom specific.

• Dec 10:  Civic Oration classroom round.  Skate Night.  Lego League shirt day.
• Dec 11:  Band concert (1:00 @ JFK & 6:30 @ AHS).  Blood drive.
• Dec 12:  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe All School Mass in the gym.  2nd round of Civic Oration.  AHS Information Knight
• Dec 13:  3 Yr Old PS Family Activity, 8 a.m. (No 3 yr old PS classes)
• Dec 14:  4 Yr Old PS Show and Activity, 7:45 a.m. (Zeimet/Jordan) & 12:00 p.m. (Blocker/Knox) (No 4 yr old PS classes).  Band out of uniform.  Middle School Youth Night.
• Dec 17:  3rd grade Gingerbread Houses (A tradition you’ll all remember!)
• Dec 18:  Civic Oration PC Rnd (which will really be in the gym this year).  K-2 Christmas Show, 6 p.m.  K-2 out of uniform during the day.
• Dec 19:  K-2 Christmas Show for the school after our 7:40 a.m. all school Mass.  Red/Green/White/Christmas attire.  Special Dismissal at 12:40.  No afternoon PS classes.
• Dec 20-Jan 2:  Christmas Break
• Jan 3:  Classes resume

Middle School Youth Night

Below are the links/urls for volunteering to help with the next middle school youth ministry session on Friday, December 14th.  Some jobs were signed up for in advance by parents at JFK meetings have already been added to the sign up.  If the slots for adult chaperones are not filled by Wednesday, December 12th, the session will have to be cancelled, which is what happened to the last session.  All chaperones must have completed diocesan safe environment training and back ground check. If you do not know you have done so, please contact davolvpa@diodav.org to verify.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0b44ada82da0ff2-middle

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0b44ada82da0ff2-qcstorm

For more information, please contact Evan Brankin, davolvym@diodav.org.  We have the youth willing to participate; we need the adults to help now!

Bible Study for Middle School Youth

You’ve never seen a Bible study like this before!  OLV’s Faith Formation staff is offering “Encounter:  Experiencing God in the Everyday,” for 6th-8th grade students after school beginning in January.  Dates are January 24 and 31, February 7, 14, 21, and 28, and March 7 and 21.  Each session is 2:45-4:00 in the library.  Cost is $13.  For more information, or if financial assistance is needed, please contact Jennifer Wemhoff at 563-391-8384 of davolvrek6@diodav.org.

Wellness Policy Implementation Review

We will begin the review of the implementation of our wellness policy in December and/or January.  The policy can be found on our website under “For Parents” and “Policies and Forms” or can be accessed HERE.  If  you (or your child) is interested in helping us review and make recommendations for revisions to our wellness policy, please email me.

Need the Bulletin?

When I don’t get a hard copy bulletin at church, I always think that I’ll just go look it up online.  Then, it seems as if I rarely do.  Here’s the link: December 9, 2018.

Use Victory Vouchers for Your Holiday Shopping

Victory Vouchers are gift cards that one can purchase for over 7,000 different vendors.  You buy the gift card through OLV or online and receive the full face value of the card.  The parish, however, ALSO receives a percentage of the face value.  You can even direct the parish to use some of its take to help you reduce your own family’s tuition bill!  The parish office has a wide variety of gift cards in stock.  Stop by before Black Friday!  For more information, click here:  Victory Vouchers.

Blessing Bags Collection Begins

Have an old backpack?  A drawstring sports bag?  JFK is teaming with OLV’s Christian Service Ministry to collect new or gently used backpacks or similar bags for adults.  During Lent in the spring, the bags will be filled with with non-perishable items for the homeless and distributed.  Bags can be sent to school through January 13th.

Vision 2020 Video Contest

Video-making Contest for Youth Grades K-12: As part of the diocese’s Vision 20/20 process, all youth (individuals or groups) of the diocese are invited to create a 30-90 second video to celebrate their Catholic faith. The winning submission will celebrate with Bishop Zinkula. Entries are due by January 15. For contest rules, click HERE or go to https://davenportdiocese.org/vision-2020-video-contest

Chad

Advent Is a Great Time to Recommit to Mass Attendance

With the start of Advent on December 2nd, it might be a great time to recommit to regular attendance at weekend Masses.  Every year the diocese has parishes do Mass counts during the first two weekends in November.  OLV’s 2018 count was the lowest level in ten years: an average of 1,193 people (adults and children) were at Masses the first two weekends in November.  That low number seems odd as the number of OLV parishioners is at the highest level it’s been at in at least the last seven years.  Share the Word and the Eucharist together at OLV!

JFK Cost Per Pupil

As conversations are underway with the other Catholic grade schools to arrive at the common parish supported tuition rate, below are a few interesting financial facts about JFK:

1. Cost per pupil, K-8:                                $5,516               Nationwide:  $5,936
2. Average tuition revenue per pupil, K-8: $3,141                Nationwide:  $4,841
3. Parish investment per pupil, K-8:           $1,671
4. Budgeted fundraising per pupil, K-8:      $   315

1. Starting JFK teacher’s base salary:                                                                         $28,690       (DCSD:  $34,000 in 17-18)
2. Average teacher’s salary, including supplemental pay and extra duty stipends:     $43,364        (DCSD:  $58,437 in 17-18)
   1. JFK’s 31 full-time teachers have an average of 14 years of experience
   2. Avg in DCSD:  13 years of experience
   3. There are no JFK teachers with less than four years of experience on staff
   4. If JFK’s teachers received the DCSD average, more than an additional $470,000 would be needed.  Spread out over our K-8 students, $470,000 would raise tuition by about $1,300
3. Hourly pay range for 23 non-teaching positions: $9.50 – $21.23 per hour
4. Average hourly wage for 23 non-teaching positions:  $13.13

We are most grateful for the value of the Catholic school education available here at OLV and JFK!

How Announcements Regarding School Closures, Late Starts, Early Dismissals Are Made

To convey this type of information, we’ll rely upon our automated cell phone, text messaging, and email service.  Information will also be on our website and our Facebook account.  TV stations have been unreliable over the years and are largely not used any more.  Due to busing, we follow the decisions made by the Davenport Community School District.

MobyMax Information Went Home Last Week

A separate message regarding MobyMax, including log in information, went home in backpack mail (youngest/only) at the end of last week.  MobyMax is an online tool that we are going to use to supplement math instruction, primarily.  It does, however, also have modules for reading, English/language arts, social studies, and science.  It can be used both in and outside of school across a variety of platforms.  Something to do during that long Christmas break!

November & December Special Dates

There’s so much happening in November and December, I can’t list it all!  For a complete list, please check our website calendars.  Please also check backpack mail for information that is grade or homeroom specific.

• Dec 3:  End  of 2nd mid-qtr.  Communal Penance at St. John Vianney.  Rather than each parish doing a communal penance service, two are being throughout the deanery.  (The first was on Dec 2nd.)
• Dec 4:  Reconciliation for JFK students in grades 3-8 during the day.  First Reconciliation for 2nd graders in the evening.
• Dec 6:  5th/6th grade Christmas show (1:00 and 6:30).  Second graders out of uniform.
• Dec 7:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception Vigil Mass, 7:00 p.m.  5th/6th out of uniform
• Dec 8:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Holy Day of Obligation).
• Dec 10:  Civic Oration classroom round.  Skate Night.  Lego League shirt day.
• Dec 11:  Band concert (1:00 @ JFK & 6:30 @ AHS).  Blood drive.
• Dec 12:  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe All School Mass in the gym.  2nd round of Civic Oration.  AHS Information Knight
• Dec 13:  3 Yr Old PS Family Activity, 8 a.m. (No 3 yr old PS classes)
• Dec 14:  4 Yr Old PS Show and Activity, 7:45 a.m. (Zeimet/Jordan) & 12:00 p.m. (Blocker/Knox) (No 4 yr old PS classes).  Band out of uniform.  Middle School Youth Night.
• Dec 17:  3rd grade Gingerbread Houses (A tradition you’ll all remember!)
• Dec 18:  Civic Oration PC Rnd (which will really be in the gym this year).  K-2 Christmas Show, 6 p.m.  K-2 out of uniform during the day.
• Dec 19:  K-2 Christmas Show for the school after our 7:40 a.m. all school Mass.  Red/Green/White/Christmas attire.  Special Dismissal at 12:40.  No afternoon PS classes.
• Dec 20-Jan 2:  Christmas Break
• Jan 3:  Classes resume

Middle School Youth Night

Below are the links/urls for volunteering to help with the next middle school youth ministry session on Friday, December 14th.  Some jobs were signed up for in advance by parents at JFK meetings have already been added to the sign up.  If the slots for adult chaperones are not filled by Wednesday, December 12th, the session will have to be cancelled, which is what happened to the last session.  All chaperones must have completed diocesan safe environment training and back ground check. If you do not know you have done so, please contact davolvpa@diodav.org to verify.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0b44ada82da0ff2-middle

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0b44ada82da0ff2-qcstorm

For more information, please contact Evan Brankin, davolvym@diodav.org.  We have the youth willing to participate; we need the adults to help now!

Bible Study for Middle School Youth

You’ve never seen a Bible study like this before!  OLV’s Faith Formation staff is offering “Encounter:  Experiencing God in the Everyday,” for 6th-8th grade students after school beginning in January.  Dates are January 24 and 31, February 7, 14, 21, and 28, and March 7 and 21.  Each session is 2:45-4:00 in the library.  Cost is $13.  For more information, or if financial assistance is needed, please contact Jennifer Wemhoff at 563-391-8384 of davolvrek6@diodav.org.

Wellness Policy Implementation Review

We will begin the review of the implementation of our wellness policy in December and/or January.  The policy can be found on our website under “For Parents” and “Policies and Forms” or can be accessed HERE.  If  you (or your child) is interested in helping us review and make recommendations for revisions to our wellness policy, please email me.

Need the Bulletin?

When I don’t get a hard copy bulletin at church, I always think that I’ll just go look it up online.  Then, it seems as if I rarely do.  Here’s the link:  December 2, 2018 bulletin

Assumption Knight Players Present Miss Nelson is Missing!

• December 7:  6:00 p.m. and December 8: 2:00 p.m.
• Sunderbruch Auditorium at Assumption
• Based on the beloved  children’s book,  Miss Nelson can’t control her crazy classroom because she’s just too nice.  When she disappears, her replacement is the hard-as-nails, detention-loving, recess-canceling, homework-overloading substitute teacher Viola Swamp.  The students, realizing how much they miss Miss Nelson, will do anything — including hiring a private eye — to bring her back.
• General Admission seating available at the door.  All Tickets $5.   Children under 5 are free.  Free admission to students with Assumption Activity Pass. (Grade School Students must be accompanied by an adult)

Use Victory Vouchers for Your Holiday Shopping

Victory Vouchers are gift cards that one can purchase for over 7,000 different vendors.  You buy the gift card through OLV or online and receive the full face value of the card.  The parish, however, ALSO receives a percentage of the face value.  You can even direct the parish to use some of its take to help you reduce your own family’s tuition bill!  The parish office has a wide variety of gift cards in stock.  Stop by before Black Friday!  For more information, click here:  Victory Vouchers.

Blessing Bags Collection Begins

Have an old backpack?  A drawstring sports bag?  JFK is teaming with OLV’s Christian Service Ministry to collect new or gently used backpacks or similar bags for adults.  During Lent in the spring, the bags will be filled with with non-perishable items for the homeless and distributed.  Bags can be sent to school through January 13th.

Chad

How Announcements Regarding School Closures, Late Starts, Early Dismissals Are Made

To convey this type of information, we’ll rely upon our automated cell phone, text messaging, and email service.  Information will also be on our website and our Facebook account.  TV stations have been unreliable over the years and are largely not used any more.  Due to busing, we follow the decisions made by the Davenport Community School District.

MobyMax Information Coming Later this Week

Look for a separate message regarding MobyMax, including log in information, later this week.  MobyMax is an online tool that we are going to use to supplement math instruction, primarily.  It does, however, also have modules for reading, English/language arts, social studies, and science.  It can be used both in and outside of school across a variety of platforms.  More information will be sent home via backpack mail or email later this week.

November & December Special Dates

There’s so much happening in November and December, I can’t list it all!  For a complete list, please check our website calendars.  Please also check backpack mail for information that is grade or homeroom specific.

• Nov 30: Red/white/blue out of uniform dress day to raise funds for the Iowa Veterans Home ($1 to be out of uniform)
• Dec 1:  Drop-Off Movie, 4:00 – 7:00 (Hotel Transylvania 3 on new JUMBO inflatable screen.  Cost:  $10 per student if registered by 11/27; $15 per student at the door.
• Dec 2:  First Sunday of Advent.  Begin Advent with Communal Penance at Sacred Heart in the evening.
• Dec 3:  Communal Penance at St. John Vianney.  Couldn’t make it to Sacred Heart on the 2nd?  Here’s another community opportunity.
• Dec 4:  Reconciliation for JFK students in grades 3-8 during the day.  First Reconciliation for 2nd graders in the evening.
• Dec 6:  5th/6th grade Christmas show
• Dec 7:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception Vigil Mass, 7:00 p.m.
• Dec 8:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Holy Day of Obligation).
• Dec 10:  Civic Oration classroom round.  Skate Night.
• Dec 11:  Band concert
• Dec 12:  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe All School Mass.  2nd round of Civic Oration.  AHS Information Knight
• Dec 13:  3 Yr Old PS Family Activity (No 3 yr old PS classes)
• Dec 14:  4 Yr Old PS Show and Activity (No 4 yr old PS classes)
• Dec 17:  3rd grade Gingerbread Houses (A tradition you’ll all remember!)
• Dec 18:  Civic Oration PC Rnd (which will really be in the gym this year).  K-2 Christmas Show
• Dec 19:  K-2 Christmas Show for the school after our 7:40 a.m. all school Mass.  Red/Green/White/Christmas attire.  Special Dismissal at 12:40.  No afternoon PS classes.
• Dec 20-Jan 2:  Christmas Break
• Jan 3:  Classes resume

Mock Trial Individual Recognition

Several students were received individual recognition at the regional Mock Trial competition:

• Attorneys:  Brian C. (6th grade) and Sean B. (7th grade)
• Witnesses:  Will A. (6th grade), Cleary C. (6th grade), Elexa A. (7th grade) and Mary R. (8th grade)
• 8th Grade (in alphabetical order):  Adie C., Delaney E., Xander P., and Mary R.

Need the Bulletin?

When I don’t get a hard copy bulletin at church, I always think that I’ll just go look it up online.  Then, it seems as if I rarely do.  Here’s the link:  November 18, 2018.  (The November 25th bulletin has not yet been posted.)

Fictional Account About Social Media and Children

Or, maybe it’s really not all that fictional.  It is an interesting blog post on how cell phones and social media have changed the landscape, and why we should try to limit their use.  Click here to read the story:  Comparing 2008 with 2018.

With so many of my accounts having notifications going right to my own smartphone, I also decided to put some limits on them this fall.  I was finding myself feeling anxious every time my phone made some sort of noise!

Assumption Knight Players Present Miss Nelson is Missing!

• December 7:  6:00 p.m. and December 8: 2:00 p.m.
• Sunderbruch Auditorium at Assumption
• Based on the beloved  children’s book,  Miss Nelson can’t control her crazy classroom because she’s just too nice.  When she disappears, her replacement is the hard-as-nails, detention-loving, recess-canceling, homework-overloading substitute teacher Viola Swamp.  The students, realizing how much they miss Miss Nelson, will do anything — including hiring a private eye — to bring her back.
• General Admission seating available at the door.  All Tickets $5.   Children under 5 are free.  Free admission to students with Assumption Activity Pass. (Grade School Students must be accompanied by an adult)

Spiritwear Holiday Sale & Used Uniform Sale

Two options:

• Merchandise available for purchase during Drop-off Movie on December 1st.  Movie attendance is not required to shop.
• Use the order form that was sent home at the end of last week.  Deadline for Christmas orders is 12/3

Use Victory Vouchers for Your Holiday Shopping

Victory Vouchers are gift cards that one can purchase for over 7,000 different vendors.  You buy the gift card through OLV or online and receive the full face value of the card.  The parish, however, ALSO receives a percentage of the face value.  You can even direct the parish to use some of its take to help you reduce your own family’s tuition bill!  The parish office has a wide variety of gift cards in stock.  Stop by before Black Friday!  For more information, click here:  Victory Vouchers.

What Does Science Teaching Look Like?

Teaching science includes a wide range of activities:

• Testing parachutes and “Mayflower” aluminum foil boats
• Reading aloud and practicing close reading strategies
• Analyzing a problem and designing portable snake egg incubator devices and using various chemical combinations to maintain correct temperatures
• Working collaboratively to make molecular models and acting out states of matter
• Testing electric charges
• Completing online simulations about Newton’s Laws of Motion

To the left is a picture of 8th graders designing and testing insulated containers:

Chad

Nothing But Compliments

I heard nothing but compliments from parishioners at the 9:00 Mass today.  They were so excited about having the JFK 7th/8th grade choir sing at Mass!

November & December Special Dates

There’s so much happening in November and December, I can’t list it all!  For a complete list, please check our website calendars.  Please also check backpack mail for information that is grade or homeroom specific.

• Nov 19:  Skate Night at the Eldridge skate park, 6:00-8:00 p.m.  (Superhero theme)
• Nov 21:  No classes.  ECLC open
• Nov 22-23:  No classes.  ECLC closed.
• Nov 25:  Advent Adult Bible Study begins.  Rejoice!  Advent Meditations with Mary
• Nov 30:  JFK/AHS Spirit Out of Uniform Day
• Dec 1:  Drop-Off Movie, 4:00 – 7:00 (Hotel Transylvania 3 on new JUMBO inflatable screen.  Cost:  $10 per student if registered by 11/27; $15 per student at the door.
• Dec 2:  First Sunday of Advent.  Begin Advent with Communal Penance at Sacred Heart in the evening.
• Dec 3:  Communal Penance at St. John Vianney.  Couldn’t make it to Sacred Heart on the 2nd?  Here’s another community opportunity.
• Dec 4:  Reconciliation for JFK students in grades 3-8 during the day.  First Reconciliation for 2nd graders in the evening.
• Dec 6:  5th/6th grade Christmas show
• Dec 7:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception Vigil Mass, 7:00 p.m.
• Dec 8:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Holy Day of Obligation).
• Dec 10:  Civic Oration classroom round.  Skate Night.
• Dec 11:  Band concert
• Dec 12:  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe All School Mass.  2nd round of Civic Oration.  AHS Information Knight
• Dec 13:  3 Yr Old PS Family Activity (No 3 yr old PS classes)
• Dec 14:  4 Yr Old PS Show and Activity (No 4 yr old PS classes)
• Dec 17:  3rd grade Gingerbread Houses (A tradition you’ll all remember!)
• Dec 18:  Civic Oration PC Rnd (which will really be in the gym this year).  K-2 Christmas Show
• Dec 19:  K-2 Christmas Show for the school after our 7:40 a.m. all school Mass.  Red/Green/White/Christmas attire.  Special Dismissal at 12:40.  No afternoon PS classes.
• Dec 20-Jan 2:  Christmas Break
• Jan 3:  Classes resume

Mock Trial

I wasn’t able to make the competition this Saturday, but I did see one of the trial practices.  I understand there were some students who will receive individual attorney or witness awards!  Members of our two teams are below:

• 6th Grade (in alphabetical order):  Aidyn A., Will A., Cleary C., Brian C., Ava D., Ethan M., and John W.
• 7th Grade (in alphabetical order):  Elexa A., Brynn B., Sean B., Rylie D., Delaney S., and Owen W.
• 8th Grade (in alphabetical order):  Adie C., Delaney E., Xander P., and Mary R.

Scouting Report

I was able to attend two of the 8th grade girls’ volleyball games today.  The girls just keep getting better and better over the years!  I think the staff could be in trouble again during our annual 8th grade vs. staff volleyball games during Catholic Schools Week!

Need the Bulletin?

When I don’t get a hard copy bulletin at church, I always think that I’ll just go look it up online.  Then, it seems as if I rarely do.  Here’s the link:  November 18, 2018.

Do You Have a Perfectionist Teen?

Read this flyer from the National Catholic Educational Association to help you determine if you have a perfectionist teen who is dealing with anxiety and what you can do about it.  I loved the qualifier they had on one of the descriptors:  “The teen who does most things absolutely perfectly (cleanliness of their room seldom falls in this category, sorry!).”  Read the article here:  Helping Perfectionist Teens, NCEA Nov 2018

How About a Teen (or Younger Child) on Either Side of this Type of Situation with Social Media?

What an interesting blog post on how cell phones and social media have changed the landscape, and why we should try to limit their use.  Click here to read the story:  Comparing 2008 with 2018.

With so many of my accounts having notifications going right to my own smartphone, I also decided to put some limits on them this fall.  I was finding myself feeling anxious every time my phone made some sort of noise!

Assumption Knight Players Present Miss Nelson is Missing!

• December 7:  6:00 p.m. and December 8: 2:00 p.m.
• Sunderbruch Auditorium at Assumption
• Based on the beloved  children’s book,  Miss Nelson can’t control her crazy classroom because she’s just too nice.  When she disappears, her replacement is the hard-as-nails, detention-loving, recess-canceling, homework-overloading substitute teacher Viola Swamp.  The students, realizing how much they miss Miss Nelson, will do anything — including hiring a private eye — to bring her back.
• General Admission seating available at the door.  All Tickets $5.   Children under 5 are free.  Free admission to students with Assumption Activity Pass. (Grade School Students must be accompanied by an adult)

Spiritwear Holiday Sale & Used Uniform Sale

Two options:

• Merchandise available for purchase during Drop-off Movie on December 1st.  Movie attendance is not required to shop.
• Use the order form that was sent home at the end of last week.  Deadline for Christmas orders is 12/3

Use Victory Vouchers for Your Holiday Shopping

Victory Vouchers are gift cards that one can purchase for over 7,000 different vendors.  You buy the gift card through OLV or online and receive the full face value of the card.  The parish, however, ALSO receives a percentage of the face value.  You can even direct the parish to use some of its take to help you reduce your own family’s tuition bill!  The parish office has a wide variety of gift cards in stock.  Stop by before Black Friday!  For more information, click here:  Victory Vouchers.

Enjoy the Thanksgiving Break

My family’s plans to start visiting a little early fell through this weekend.  My wife and I were planning on visiting my sister in Wisconsin while she is at my niece’s farm in Argyle (southwest of Madison).  Unfortunately, my sister hurriedly went to Milwaukee when her father-in-law was admitted to the hospital for cardiac pain and had to have a stent implanted.  While this unexpected turn of events threw off our plans, it was a blessing that my sister, who lives in Alabama, was so close to her father-in-law this weekend.

Three of my own four children (and one boyfriend) will be with us this Thanksgiving.  My oldest daughter, unfortunately, will not be able to come, but she was just here for a week long visit about two weeks ago and is planning on coming to Iowa at Christmas.  We enjoy family’s company whenever it’s possible!  One thing I’ll never understand, however, is how all the good food I bought on Saturday in anticipation of a full house later in the week is gone by Monday morning!

I wish you and your family the best this Thanksgiving.

Chad

November & December Special Dates

There’s so much happening in November and December, I can’t list it all!  For a complete list, please check our website calendars.  Please also check backpack mail for information that is grade or homeroom specific.

• Nov 12:  No PS-8th classes.  ECLC is open.  JFK teachers will be involved in the new catechetical training for the Diocese of Davenport.
• Nov 15:  Home & School Meeting, 7:00, PC-Carpet
• Nov 16:  Bus Evacuation Drill (Ask your student about the proper way to “jump” out the back door of a bus?)
• Nov 17:  Mock Trial Competition
• Nov 18:  JFK choir provides the music at the 9:00 Mass on November 18th.
• Nov 19:  Skate Night at the Eldridge skate park, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
• Nov 21:  No classes.  ECLC open
• Nov 22-23:  No classes.  ECLC closed.
• Nov 25:  Advent Adult Bible Study begins.  Rejoice!  Advent Meditations with Mary
• Nov 30:  JFK/AHS Spirit Out of Uniform Day
• Dec 1:  Drop-Off Movie
• Dec 2:  First Sunday of Advent.  Begin Advent with Communal Penance at Sacred Heart in the evening.
• Dec 3:  Communal Penance at St. John Vianney.  Couldn’t make it to Sacred Heart on the 2nd?  Here’s another community opportunity.
• Dec 4:  Reconciliation for JFK students in grades 3-8 during the day.  First Reconciliation for 2nd graders in the evening.
• Dec 6:  5th/6th grade Christmas show
• Dec 7:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception Vigil Mass, 7:00 p.m.
• Dec 8:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Holy Day of Obligation).
• Dec 10:  Civic Oration classroom round.  Skate Night.
• Dec 11:  Band concert
• Dec 12:  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe All School Mass.  2nd round of Civic Oration.  AHS Information Knight
• Dec 13:  3 Yr Old PS Family Activity (No 3 yr old PS classes)
• Dec 14:  4 Yr Old PS Show and Activity (No 4 yr old PS classes)
• Dec 17:  3rd grade Gingerbread Houses (A tradition you’ll all remember!)
• Dec 18:  Civic Oration PC Rnd (which will really be in the gym this year).  K-2 Christmas Show
• Dec 19:  K-2 Christmas Show for the school after our 7:40 a.m. all school Mass.  Red/Green/White/Christmas attire.  Special Dismissal at 12:40.  No afternoon PS classes.
• Dec 20-Jan 2:  Christmas Break
• Jan 3:  Classes resume

Mock Trial

Good luck to our Mock Trial participants!  They compete in the regional level at the Scott County courthouse on Saturday.  Members of our two teams are below:

• 6th Grade:  Aidyn A., Will A., Cleary C., Brian C., Ava D., Ethan M., and John W.
• 7th Grade:  Elexa A., Brynn B., Sean B., Rylie D., Delaney S., and Owen W.
• 8th Grade:  Adie C., Delaney E., Xander P., and Mary R.

Magazine Sale — Non-Magazine Item Pick Up

There were still plenty of non-magazine items needing to be picked up after Thursday evening.  Please pick them up ASAP through the school office.  Frozen/refrigerated items cannot be stored indefinitely as our lunch program receives regular shipments and needs the freezer space.  Thank you for your support of the JFK Magazine Fundraiser!

Home & School Meeting on Thursday

All parents are automatically members of Home & School.  Please come on Thursday, November 15th at 7:00 p.m. in the carpeted side of the parish center to share your ideas on how JFK can be supported.

Need the Bulletin?

When I don’t get a hard copy bulletin at church, I always think that I’ll just go look it up online.  Then, it seems as if I rarely do.  Here’s the link:  November 11, 2018.

Do You Have a Perfectionist Teen?

Read this flyer from the National Catholic Educational Association to help you determine if you have a perfectionist teen who is dealing with anxiety and what you can do about it.  I loved the qualifier they had on one of the descriptors:  “The teen who does most things absolutely perfectly (cleanliness of their room seldom falls in this category, sorry!).”  Read the article here:  Helping Perfectionist Teens, NCEA Nov 2018

Scott County Catholic Schools’ Parent University:  Growth Mindset in the Home

Join us for “Growth Mindset in the Home” at 6:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart on Tuesday, November 13, 2018.  Sponsored by Scott County Catholic schools’ counselors.

Annual Diocesan Appeal — Significant Progress Made

We made significant progress recently toward our Annual Diocesan Appeal (ADA) goal.  The “mandated goal” for OLV is about $151,600, and we went from about 67% of it pledged to just over 80%.  We still have a ways to go, however, and, then, of course, the actual donations.  As a “mandatory goal,” if the ADA does not raise the funds, funds from the parish budget must make up the difference, and we’d have to cut expenses to pay the shortage.  Please support OLV/JFK and the Diocese of Davenport.

Annual Progress Report for 2017-18  

The Annual Progress Report for the 2017-18 school year was sent home with the “youngest and only” a couple of weeks ago.  If you missed it, it’s on our website.  Click HERE to view it.

Chad

Parade of Saints Photo

The symbolism of our saints was remarkable.

Special Schedules Coming Up

We have PS-8th grade parent/teacher conferences in the evening on November 6th and during the day on November 8th.  There are no PS-8th grade classes on November 8th and 9th.  (Classes are normal on November 6th.)  Conferences for PS-5th grade are scheduled.  Sixth through 8th grade conferences and conferences for specials are in the cafeteria.

On November 12th, all JFK teachers will be involved in the new catechetical training for the Diocese of Davenport.  There are no PS-8th grade classes on November 12th.

ECLC is in session on all of these days.

Planning for Thanksgiving already?  There are no classes on November 21-23.  ECLC is open on the 21st but not on the 22nd or 23rd.

Sixth Grade Band Festival

Sixth grade students from the four Catholic elementary schools performed at Assumption High School last week.

Scott County Catholic Schools’ Parent University:  Growth Mindset in the Home

Join us for “Growth Mindset in the Home” at 6:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart on Tuesday, November 13, 2018.  Sponsored by Scott County Catholic schools’ counselors.

Are You Registered to Receive Text Messages from JFK?

If you are not registered to receive text messages from JFK (primarily families new to JFK and/or preschool), type “Y” or “Yes” to 67587.  You will not receive text messages from JFK if you do not take action yourself.

There is no action required to receive email or phone messages.

Portable Reptile Egg Incubator?

Sixth grade scientists were running tests to determine the right mixture of chemicals to produce the optimal temperature to be able to transport reptile eggs.

Annual Diocesan Appeal

We still have a ways to go with the the Annual Diocesan Appeal (ADA).  The “mandated goal” for OLV is about $151,600 of which we’re only at 67% pledged.  We still need pledges of about $50,000, and, then, of course, the actual donations.  As a “mandatory goal,” if the ADA does not raise the funds, funds from the parish budget must make up the difference, and we’d have to cut expenses to pay the shortage.  Please support OLV/JFK and the Diocese of Davenport.

Annual Progress Report for 2017-18  

The Annual Progress Report for the 2017-18 school year was sent home with the “youngest and only” a couple of weeks ago.  If you missed it, it’s on our website.  Click HERE to view it.

Chad