Author: csteimle

Pre-Registration Process for 2023-24 Begins February 6th

A new registration process for JFK and Scott County Catholic Schools begins February 6th when the pre-registration/application link is released.

1. All preschool, kindergarten, and returning families will need to enter information through the pre-registration/application survey.  A QR Code and link/url will be distributed/posted on February 6th.  Submissions are time/date stamped.  For those unable to complete the pre-registration/application survey online, physical copies will be available at school.
2. Pay the registration fee for K-8, three year old preschool, or “non-qualifying” four/five year old preschool OR the extra time fee for an “IA preschool” four year old preschool.  The registration fee is regularly $125 per PK-12 student for a maximum of $375 per family.  If paid prior to April 1st, the early bird amount is $100 per PK-12 student for a maximum of $300 per family.   The extra time fee for four year old preschoolers is $250 per child.  These fees can be paid online by following the link in the pre-registration/application survey.  Checks can also be made payable to JFK and sent to the school office.
   1. A non-qualifying preschooler is a non-Iowa resident or student who turns 5 on or before Sept 15th.  Tuition is charged for this student, and there is a registration fee.  There is no extra time fee.
3. Complete a more detailed online process.  This process will most likely be available in March.

As we move through the registration process, it is important that families be up-to-date in their payments of tuition and ECLC and other fees.  Families who are not up-to-date will not be in the highest priority enrollment group and may not even be able to finalize their registration.

Tuition rates for K-12 have not yet been finalized for 2023-24.  (See the below information regarding ESAs.)

Scott County Catholic School tuition rates for preschool, with or without wraparound care, are in the linked document:  Preschool Tuition Rates JFK

Note that there are now more options at JFK for preschool and wraparound care options.  Taking account of all of the wraparound care offered, there are at least 17 preschool options available at JFK next year, including some new ones.  Also note that ECLC is now considered wraparound care in SCCS and not billed separately from tuition.

In Person Events for Kindergarten Round-Up and Preschool Open House and Pre-Registration

With so many changes with ESAs and SCCS, the in person events for kindergarten round-up and preschool open house and pre-registration may be even more important.  Below is a link to the flyer for these events.  Please note that the pre-school event is a drop in anytime event rather than a scheduled program.  Both students and parents should attend.  Please share the flyer/link with other families who may be considering JFK!

JFK Kindergarten and Preschool Flyer, 2023

Kindergarten Information Session and Round-Up

February 16th:  6:00-7:30 p.m. in the cafeteria.  Parent and student event

Preschool Open House and Pre-Registration

February 13th:  5:30-7:00 pm.  Enter door 3W under the canopy (the PS entrance).  Parent and student event — drop in any time between 5:30-7:00

JFK offers several preschool options all of which can be combined with partial or full-time wraparound care:

3 year olds: MWF a.m., T/Th a.m., or M-F a.m.

4/5 year olds: M-F a.m., or M-F p.m.

JFK Accounting Shifting to SCCS Business Office

As the regionalization of the Catholic schools into one system continues, much of JFK’s accounting work will move away from the JFK school office to the SCCS business office located at Assumption High School.  Megan Masterson will be starting her days at JFK and then traveling to the SCCS business office to continue work.  Early in the morning, she can still be reached at JFK.  Later in the day, she can be reached through Assumption, 563-326-5313.  She will retain a JFK email address.  Payments should still be sent to the JFK school office.  Eventually, a new office position will be open at JFK.

Middle School Position, with Math Emphasis, Open for 2023-24

JFK is seeking a middle school, primarily math, teacher for 2023-24.  Mrs. Clark will be moving back to Utah where family resides.  Interested applicants should send a letter of interest, resume, copy/link of one’s Iowa license, and list of references to chad.steimle@olvjfkmail.com.  More information is on TeachIowa.gov

JFK GROWS Students of the Month

Each morning, students and teachers at JFK recite the JFK Difference:  JFK GROWS.  We put God first, use Respectful behaviors, find Opportunities to serve, are Welcoming to all, and make Safe choices.  Below are the students being recognized at each grade level who have exhibited these traits particularly well in January:

• Kindergarten:  Everly T.
  • Everly always has a positive attitude and a smile on her face. She is kind and respectful toward her peers and teachers and always looks for ways to help out in the classroom. She is eager to learn and is a hard worker.
• 1st Grade:  Collyns H.
  • Collyns is a kind friend, hard worker, and has a positive attitude!
• 2nd Grade:  Hazel H.
  • Hazel is a giving, kind and loving friend to all. She is willing to be there for her friends no matter what they need. Hazel gives 150% each and every day. She shines bright in 2P.
• 3rd Grade:  Aaron T.
  • Aaron displays excellent character by being respectful, responsible, and kind to all his classmates. He listens, stays on task, participates in class work by raising his hand to speak, and recognizes other students’ accomplishments as well as his own.  He makes our classroom a better place!
• 4th Grade:  Maverick K.
  • Maverick is a great friend.  He is patient and caring.  Everything he does is quiet and unassuming.  He does not like to be the center of attention, but is always doing things that help others.  He is a great role model for his classmates.
• 5th Grade:  Marshall N.
  • Marshall has been very polite and patient.  He has treated his hi peers with kindness and respect.  He does a nice job following the rules and takes responsibility for his school work by turning it in on time.
• 6th Grade:  Kenya H.
  • Kenya is always so polite and kind.  She strives to do well in her school work and is willing to help out a friend.
• 7th Grade:  Riley M.
  • Riley was nominated by his classmates as they have witnessed him really come out of his shell this year.  He has been an asset to the classroom by making sure the room is tidy, checking on people’s happiness or sadness, and offering a laugh when one is most needed.
• 8th Grade:  Aiden N.
  • Aiden comes to class prepared and is always on task.  He works equally well with all students and gives his best effort. He makes sure to ask clarifying questions when he is unsure and is always in a positive mood.

Educational Savings Accounts (ESAs)

As I mentioned in Tuesday evening’s email to families, the “Student First Act” passed the legislature and was signed into law by Governor Reynolds.  The following is a general summary of the bill:

Education Savings Accounts 

Parents who choose to enroll their children in an accredited private school will receive the amount of per pupil funds allocated annually by the state to use for tuition, fees, and other qualified expenses. Funds are deposited into an education savings account (ESA) each year until students graduate or complete high school or turn 20 years of age.  Educational Savings Accounts will be phased in over three years.

Effective for the 2023-24 school year, state per pupil funding will be $7,598 per student, and ESAs will be available based on the following eligibility:

Year 1: School Year 2023-24

• All kindergarten students

• All students who were not in a non-public school the year prior
• Private school students with a household income at or below 300% Federal Poverty Level (FPL), currently at about about $83,250 for a family of four but subject to change

Year 2: School Year 2024-25

• All kindergarten students (and first graders)
• All students who were not in a non-public school the year prior

• Private school students with a household income at or below 400% FPL, currently about $111,000 for a family of four but subject to change

Year 3: School Year 2025-26

• All K-12 students in Iowa regardless of income

Other student funding generated by categorical funding formulas will remain with public school districts even for students who are not attending public schools any more.  This amount is about $1,202 per pupil for each student who will be attending a private school.

Public School Teacher Salaries 

The Student First Act also allows public school districts the flexibility to use unspent funding from certain categorical/restricted funds to supplement teacher salaries.

Next steps include the writing of the Administrative Rules at the state level and the development of processes to then be used in Scott County Catholic Schools.  As you can imagine, there is a lot of work being done rapidly as enrollment processes for 2023-24 are set to begin sometime in February.  Here are just a few of the questions that are being raised:

• What will tuition be in the future?  Should it more reflect the true cost of education?  At JFK, the cost of education, depending upon what is included in the calculations, is upwards of $7,400.  At some of our Catholic schools, the figure is considerably higher given fixed costs but fewer students.  Should tuition rates reflect long-term planning with better salaries/benefits for staff?  (JFK teachers’ salaries are, on average, about $20,000 less than in the Davenport schools.)  Should tuition rates reflect funds available for regular replacement cycles for window coverings, flooring, technology, books, desks, and chairs?  Should they reflect savings so that big capital projects, like new playground equipment at JFK to replace 25+ year old equipment, don’t depend upon a capital campaign or an unexpected $10,000 water heater repair/replacement bill at a school doesn’t cause other budget cuts?
• How is current financial assistance through the Family Tuition Plan and Student Tuition Organizations impacted?  Will STOs even still be around in the next 3-5 years if ESAs are here to stay?
• Will there be legal challenges to ESAs?  Will there be an injunction prohibiting implementation until legal issues are resolved?  (ESAs have a good track record of withstanding legal challenges in other states.)
• Will enrollment grow in our Catholic schools?  If yes, by how much?  Is there a limit?  Do we have admissions guidelines in place to handle increased inquires?
• How can ESAs benefit families, parishes, staff and our educational product so our Catholic schools can be viable for all in the long-term?

More information will be made available when we have it.

JFK Preschool Facebook Page

JFK launched a new Facebook page, JFK Preschool, devoted exclusively to 3-5 year old preschool: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063830626686.   Look for more information from your child’s preschool teacher.

I was at Assumption the other day for a SCCS meeting and heard their announcements, which included information regarding the length of girls’ skirts, the tightness/type of girls’ pants, and various sweatshirt issues.  Hmmm.  Those are almost the exact same things that we have to tighten up at JFK.  Expect a renewed effort to make sure we are abiding by our uniform policy, including the issuance of dress code demerits which lead to detentions in the upper grades.

Catholic Schools Week

Wasn’t it fun?!  There are many photos and videos on our closed JFK Facebook group called “JFK Moms and Dads.”  Send a request to be member.

Highlighted Events

See the calendars on our website for more complete information as the below are only some of the highlights.

• Feb 6:  2nd Grade Sacrament Preparation Event.  SCCS Parent University (Zoom event)
• Feb 8:  Kids Heart Challenge Kick Off for K-5
• Feb 10:  Band/Music Scratch Cupcake Sales End
• Feb 12:  Ignite Sunday
• Feb 13:  Pre-school Open House and Pre-Registration Event
• Feb 14:  Red, White, & Pink Dress Day
• Feb 16:  End of 3rd Mid-Qtr.  Kindergarten Round-Up
• Feb 20:  President’s Day-No Classes.  ECLC Open
• Feb 22:  Ash Wednesday

Chad

Catholic Schools Week is Here

Details for Catholic Schools Week are below:

If you missed Mass at OLV this weekend, you can catch my remarks and the “state of the school” address by watching the recorded 4:30 Mass:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkZG5YGDvog&t=1691s

Monday, January 30:

• Dodgeball for Diapers fundraiser for grades 3-8
  • Details and permission slip come from Mrs. Tilkens
• Minute to Win It Games for K-2
• Athletic and/or Favorite Team Dress Day/Out of Uniform
• Frozen treat from Home & School

Tuesday, January 31:

• Talent Show
  • Grades 5, 1, 3, 4 in that order beginning at about 7:50.
  • Grades K, 2, 8, 6, 7 in that order beginning at about 12:35
  • Every student will be involved in a class/grade level act, and individual acts will also occur.  Information has been emailed separately regarding the talent show.
  • Guests are welcome, but we cannot be more particular about the time of performers.  It all depends upon how many acts there are, how long each act actually is, etc.
• Pajama Day
• Students may also bring a pillow to sit upon
• H & S Skate Night at the Eldridge skate park/community center

Wednesday, February 1:

• All School Mass with Individual Blessings of Throats
• Spirit Wear Tops or green/white tops.  Bottoms may be out of uniform.
• Bring an Adult Guest to Lunch Day
  • 10:40-11:10     Kindergarten
  • 11:10-11:40     Grades 3 and 4
  • 11:40-12:10     Grades 1 and 2
  • 12:10-12:40     Grades 5 and 6
  • 12:40-1:10       Grades 7 and 8
  • Students’ adult guests may sign their students out from school for the rest of the day, if desired
  • Book fair open
  • Details about signing up for an adult meal and paying it for were distributed two weeks ago.  Pre-payment is needed.

Thursday, February 2:

• Scott County Catholic Schools Grades 2-12 Mass at Assumption
• Take Pride in Your Uniform Dress Day (Everyone is in dress code.  This applies to upper grade students as well even if they have PE today)
• Bingo

Friday, February 3:

• 8th grade vs. Staff Volleyball Games with grades 3-7 cheering them on
• K-2 Special movie or other activity
• Wacky Tacky Out of Uniform Day
• Chips provided by Home & School

Sunday, February 5:

• Home & School sponsored event at SnowStar

Educational Savings Accounts

As I mentioned in Tuesday evening’s email to families, the “Student First Act” passed the legislature and was signed into law by Governor Reynolds.  The following is a general summary of the bill:

Education Savings Accounts 

Parents who choose to enroll their children in an accredited private school will receive the amount of per pupil funds allocated annually by the state to use for tuition, fees, and other qualified expenses. Funds are deposited into an education savings account (ESA) each year until students graduate or complete high school or turn 20 years of age.  Educational Savings Accounts will be phased in over three years.

Effective for the 2023-24 school year, state per pupil funding will be $7,598 per student, and ESAs will be available based on the following eligibility:

Year 1: School Year 2023-24

• All kindergarten students

• All students who were not in a non-public school the year prior
• Private school students with a household income at or below 300% Federal Poverty Level (FPL), currently at about about $83,250 for a family of four but subject to change

Year 2: School Year 2024-25

• All kindergarten students (and first graders)
• All students who were not in a non-public school the year prior

• Private school students with a household income at or below 400% FPL, currently about $111,000 for a family of four but subject to change

Year 3: School Year 2025-26

• All K-12 students in Iowa regardless of income

Other student funding generated by categorical funding formulas will remain with public school districts even for students who are not attending public schools any more.  This amount is about $1,202 per pupil for each student who will be attending a private school.

Public School Teacher Salaries 

The Student First Act also allows public school districts the flexibility to use unspent funding from certain categorical/restricted funds to supplement teacher salaries.

Next steps include the writing of the Administrative Rules at the state level and the development of processes to then be used in Scott County Catholic Schools.  As you can imagine, there is a lot of work being done rapidly as enrollment processes for 2023-24 are set to begin sometime in February.  Here are just a few of the questions that are being raised:

• What will tuition be in the future?  Should it more reflect the true cost of education?  At JFK, the cost of education, depending upon what is included in the calculations, is upwards of $7,400.  At some of our Catholic schools, the figure is considerably higher given fixed costs but fewer students.  Should tuition rates reflect long-term planning with better salaries/benefits for staff?  (JFK teachers’ salaries are, on average, about $20,000 less than in the Davenport schools.)  Should tuition rates reflect funds available for regular replacement cycles for window coverings, flooring, technology, books, desks, and chairs?  Should they reflect savings so that big capital projects, like new playground equipment at JFK to replace 25+ year old equipment, don’t depend upon a capital campaign or an unexpected $10,000 water heater repair/replacement bill at a school doesn’t cause other budget cuts?
• How is current financial assistance through the Family Tuition Plan and Student Tuition Organizations impacted?  Will STOs even still be around in the next 3-5 years if ESAs are here to stay?
• Will there be legal challenges to ESAs?  Will there be an injunction prohibiting implementation until legal issues are resolved?  (ESAs have a good track record of withstanding legal challenges in other states.)
• Will enrollment grow in our Catholic schools?  If yes, by how much?  Is there a limit?  Do we have admissions guidelines in place to handle increased inquires?
• How can ESAs benefit families, parishes, staff and our educational product so our Catholic schools can be viable for all in the long-term?

More information will be made available when we have it, but please note that we are very early in this process with the law just passing this week.

Different Registration Process for 2023-24 Begins February 6th

A new registration process for JFK and Scott County Catholic Schools will begin around February 6th when the pre-registration/application link is released.  All preschool, kindergarten, and returning families will need to enter information through the pre-registration/application survey.

Below is a link to in-person events for pre-school and kindergarten on February 13th and 16th, respectively.  Please note that the pre-school event is a drop in anytime event rather than a scheduled program.  Both students and parents should attend.  Please share the flyer/link with other families who may be considering JFK!

JFK Kindergarten and Preschool Flyer, 2023

Kindergarten Information Session and Round-Up

February 16th:  6:00-7:30 p.m. in the cafeteria.  Parent and student event

Preschool Open House and Pre-Registration

February 13th:  5:30-7:00 pm.  Enter door 3W under the canopy (the PS entrance).  Parent and student event — drop in any time between 5:30-7:00

JFK offers several preschool options all of which can be combined with partial or full-time wraparound care:

3 year olds: MWF a.m., T/Th a.m., or M-F a.m.

4/5 year olds: M-F a.m., or M-F p.m.

JFK Preschool Facebook Page

JFK will be launching a new Facebook page, JFK Preschool, devoted exclusively to 3-5 year old preschool: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063830626686.   Look for more information from your child’s preschool teacher.

Student Council is sponsoring a pop tab collection homeroom contest that runs through February 3.  The winning homeroom in K-4 and homeroom in 5-8 will have a pizza party or ice cream treat.  The pop tabs will be donated to the Ronald McDonald House Charities in Iowa City and converted into funds for them.

Things have gotten a little lax with our dress code, especially with skirt lengths for older girls.  Expect a renewed effort to make sure we are abiding by our uniform policy.

Highlighted Events

Things keep getting added to the calendar.  Check online for more complete information as the below are only some of the highlights.

• Fe b 2:  7/8 Science Fair Showcase, 6:00-6:45 p.m.
• Feb 6:  2nd Grade Sacrament Preparation Event.  SCCS Parent University (Zoom event)
• Feb 8:  Kids Heart Challenge Kick Off for K-5
• Feb 12:  Ignite Sunday
• Feb 14:  Red, White, & Pink Dress Day
• Feb 16:  End of 3rd Mid-Qtr

Chad

Catholic Schools Week Begins January 28th

Details for Catholic Schools Week are below:

Saturday, January 28:

• Mass at 4:30.  Let’s see a wave of JFK spirit wear and/or green and white!
• Open House and Book Fair
  • JFK also receives a percentage of the sales from the book fair, which is used to purchase books for the library. We accept credit and debit cards as well as check and cash. You may also purchase a gift certificate for your child’s teacher to use to purchase a book for the classroom. Please stop in to see what we have this year!
• Pick up your pre-ordered taco kit from Moe’s Taco, 5:30-7:15

Monday, January 30:

• Dodgeball for Diapers fundraiser for grades 3-8
  • Details and permission slip come from Mrs. Tilkens
• Minute to Win It Games for K-2
• Athletic and/or Favorite Team Dress Day/Out of Uniform
• Frozen treat from Home & School

Tuesday, January 31:

• Talent Show
  • Grades 5, 1, 3, 4 in that order beginning at about 7:50.
  • Grades K, 2, 8, 6, 7 in that order beginning at about 12:35
  • Every student will be involved in a class/grade level act, and individual acts will also occur.  Information has been emailed separately regarding the talent show.
  • Guests are welcome, but we cannot be more particular about the time of performers.  It all depends upon how many acts there are, how long each act actually is, etc.
• Pajama Day
• Students may also bring a pillow to sit upon

Wednesday, February 1:

• All School Mass with Individual Blessings of Throats
• Spirit Wear Tops or green/white tops.  Bottoms may be out of uniform.
• Bring an Adult Guest to Lunch Day
  • 10:40-11:10     Kindergarten
  • 11:10-11:40     Grades 3 and 4
  • 11:40-12:10     Grades 1 and 2
  • 12:10-12:40     Grades 5 and 6
  • 12:40-1:10       Grades 7 and 8
  • Students’ adult guests may sign their students out from school for the rest of the day, if desired
  • Book fair open
  • Details about signing up for an adult meal and paying it for were distributed two weeks ago.  Pre-payment is needed.

Thursday, February 2:

• Scott County Catholic Schools Grades 2-12 Mass at Assumption
• Take Pride in Your Uniform Dress Day (Everyone is in dress code.  This applies to upper grade students as well even if they have PE today)
• Bingo

Friday, February 3:

• 8th grade vs. Staff Volleyball Games with grades 3-7 cheering them on
• K-2 Special movie or other activity
• Wacky Tacky Out of Uniform Day
• Chips provided by Home & School

Sunday, February 5:

• Home & School sponsored event at SnowStar

Educational Savings Accounts

Governor Reynolds’ legislative priority to establish Educational Savings Accounts in Iowa is moving at a rapid pace.  It is scheduled for debate on the house floor early this week, and the senate will likely do the same.

This bill would allow parents to put $7,598 in an Educational Savings Account that could be used for educational needs, including tuition at a private school, like JFK and Assumption.  The bill calls for ESAs to be phased in over three years, with those with the lowest income levels and students new to private schools (such as kindergartners and other transfer students) to be eligible first.  By the third year, all families would be eligible.

The draft bill also allows the public schools to receive some funds for every student who receives an ESA and allows them to shift funds from one account to another to help increase teacher salaries.

To send a message of support to members of the Iowa House and Senate, use the following link: https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/Campaigns/99744/Respond.

Different Registration Process

With the exciting potential of ESAs and the unification of our schools into the regional Scott County Catholic School system, the registration process for next school year will look different.  Information about registration, as we can best predict, will be determined and disseminated shortly, especially for preschool, ECLC, and kindergarten.  Below is the link to the flyer.

JFK Kindergarten and Preschool Flyer, 2023

Kindergarten Information Session and Round-Up

February 16th:  6:00-7:30 p.m. in the cafeteria.  Parent and student event

Preschool Open House and Pre-Registration

February 13th:  5:30-7:00 pm.  Enter door 3W under the canopy (the PS entrance).  Parent and student event — drop in any time between 5:30-7:00

JFK offers several preschool options all of which can be combined with partial or full-time wraparound care:

3 year olds: MWF a.m., T/Th a.m., or M-F a.m.

4/5 year olds: M-F a.m., or M-F p.m.

JFK Preschool Facebook Page

JFK will be launching a new Facebook page, JFK Preschool, devoted exclusively to 3-5 year old preschool: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063830626686.   Look for more information from your child’s preschool teacher.

This initiative, and other great ideas, was provided by an ad hoc Early Childhood Planning Committee.  We would like to thank the following who had been willing to participate on this committee:  Ann Craig, Jennifer Boyd, Julainne Edwards, Molly McCarty, Ethan Connors, Melissa Zeimet, Melanie Blocker, Brenda Fox, Melissa VanDam  Kari Lystiuk, Alicia Andresen, Jenny Vangenderen, Penny Trier, Tammy Nagle, and Niki Gartner.

Scribes Creative Writing Club

There was a great turnout for the new Scribes Creative Writing Club for students in grades 5-8.  Ms. Bridget Parr  is overseeing this club.  In person meetings to share work and to write are every other Thursday and noted on the website school calendar.  There is also a method for students to participate online.

Musical at JFK

Mrs. Potter, Mrs. Van Speybroeck, and Ms. Siefers are working to produce a middle school student musical this spring.  The production will be held in late April at Assumption High School.  Information about try-outs, practices, and parent commitments will be coming out shortly.

Student Council is sponsoring a pop tab collection homeroom contest that runs through February 3.  The winning homeroom in K-4 and homeroom in 5-8 will have a pizza party or ice cream treat.  The pop tabs will be donated to the Ronald McDonald House Charities in Iowa City and converted into funds for them.

Things have gotten a little lax with our dress code, especially with skirt lengths for older girls.  Expect a renewed effort to make sure we are abiding by our uniform policy.

When a couple of younger students could not go out for recess one day last week, one of our 8th graders sat down to join them in the office.

Highlighted Events

Things keep getting added to the calendar.  Check online for more complete information as the below are only some of the highlights.

• Jan 25:  8th Grade Parent Meeting at Assumption’s Auditorium
• Jan 26:  4/5 Yr Old Scheduled PS Parent/Teacher Conferences.  K-8 Drop-in Parent/Teacher Conferences, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
• Jan 27:  4/5 Yr Old Scheduled PS Parent/Teacher Conferences.  No 4/5 Yr Old PS Classes
• Jan 28-Feb 4:  Catholic Schools Week
• Jan 31:  Skate Night
• Feb 2:  7/8 Science Fair Showcase, 6:00-6:45 p.m.
• Feb 6:  2nd Grade Sacrament Preparation Event.  SCCS Parent University (Zoom event)
• Feb 8:  Kids Heart Challenge Kick Off for K-5
• Feb 12:  Ignite Sunday
• Feb 14:  Red, White, & Pink Dress Day
• Feb 16:  End of 3rd Mid-Qtr

Chad

Catholic Schools Week

Details for Catholic Schools Week are below:

Saturday, January 28:

• Mass at 4:30.  Let’s see a wave of JFK spirit wear and/or green and white!
• Open House and Book Fair
  • JFK also receives a percentage of the sales from the book fair, which is used to purchase books for the library. We accept credit and debit cards as well as check and cash. You may also purchase a gift certificate for your child’s teacher to use to purchase a book for the classroom. Please stop in to see what we have this year!
• Pick up your pre-ordered taco kit from Moe’s Taco, 5:30-7:15

Monday, January 30:

• Dodgeball for Diapers fundraiser for grades 3-8
  • Details and permission slip come from Mrs. Tilkens
• Minute to Win It Games for K-2
• Athletic and/or Favorite Team Dress Day/Out of Uniform
• Frozen treat from Home & School

Tuesday, January 31:

• Talent Show
  • Grades 5, 1, 3, 4 in that order beginning at about 7:50.
  • Grades K, 2, 8, 6, 7 in that order beginning at about 12:35
    • Note that 2nd grade was moved to the afternoon, and the order in the afternoon was changed to accommodate 2nd grade and 8th grade doing grade level acts together.
  • Every student will be involved in a class/grade level act, and individual acts will also occur.  Information has been emailed separately regarding the talent show.
  • Guests are welcome, but we cannot be more particular about the time of performers.  It all depends upon how many acts there are, how long each act actually is, etc.
• Pajama Day
• Students may also bring a pillow to sit upon

Wednesday, February 1:

• All School Mass with Individual Blessings of Throats
• Spirit Wear Tops or green/white tops.  Bottoms may be out of uniform.
• Bring an Adult Guest to Lunch Day
  • 10:40-11:10     Kindergarten
  • 11:10-11:40     Grades 3 and 4
  • 11:40-12:10     Grades 1 and 2
  • 12:10-12:40     Grades 5 and 6
  • 12:40-1:10       Grades 7 and 8
  • Students’ adult guests may sign their students out from school for the rest of the day, if desired
  • Book fair open
  • Details about signing up for an adult meal and paying it for were distributed last week.  Pre-payment is needed.

Thursday, February 2:

• Scott County Catholic Schools Grades 2-12 Mass at Assumption
• Take Pride in Your Uniform Dress Day
• Bingo

Friday, February 3:

• 8th grade vs. Staff Volleyball Games with grades 3-7 cheering them on
• K-2 Special movie or other activity
• Wacky Tacky Out of Uniform Day

Sunday, February 5:

• Home & School sponsored event at SnowStar

Educational Savings Accounts

Governor Reynolds’ legislative priority to establish Educational Savings Accounts in Iowa is moving at a rapid pace.  The Senate version of the bill has made it out of committee already and is eligible for debate on the full Iowa Senate floor.  The house study bill will have a public hearing on Tuesday.  Supporters may submit comments to the public hearing online at: https://www.legis.iowa.gov/committees/publicHearings?meetingID=35789&action=viewOnlineSignup.

This bill would allow parents to put $7,598 in an Educational Savings Account that could be used for educational needs, including tuition at a private school, like JFK and Assumption.  The bill calls for ESAs to be phased in over three years, with those with the lowest income levels and students new to private schools (such as kindergartners and other transfer students) to be eligible first.  In the third year, all families would be eligible.

The draft bill also allows the public schools to receive some funds for every student who receives an ESA and allows them to shift funds from one account to another to help increase teacher salaries.

To send a message of support to members of the Iowa House and Senate, use the following link: https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/Campaigns/99744/Respond.

Different Registration Process

With the exciting potential of ESAs and the unification of our schools into the regional Scott County Catholic School system, the registration process for next school year will look different.  Information about registration, as we can best predict, will be determined and disseminated shortly, especially for preschool, ECLC, and kindergarten.

JFK Preschool Facebook Page

JFK will be launching a new Facebook page, JFK Preschool, devoted exclusively to 3-5 year old preschool: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063830626686.   Look for more information from your child’s preschool teacher.

This initiative, and other great ideas, was provided by an ad hoc Early Childhood Planning Committee.  We would like to thank the following who had been willing to participate on this committee:  Ann Craig, Jennifer Boyd, Julainne Edwards, Molly McCarty, Ethan Connors, Melissa Zeimet, Melanie Blocker, Brenda Fox, Melissa VanDam  Kari Lystiuk, Alicia Andresen, Jenny Vangenderen, Penny Trier, Tammy Nagle, and Niki Gartner.

Scribes Creative Writing Club

A Scribes Creative Writing Club is being started at JFK for students in grades 5-8.  Ms. Bridget Parr will be overseeing this club.  In person meetings to share work and to write will be every other Thursday after school.  There is also a method for students to participate online.  More information is available from Ms. Parr.  The first meeting is this week.

Musical at JFK

Mrs. Potter, Mrs. Van Speybroeck, and Ms. Siefers are working to produce a middle school student musical this spring.  The production will be held in late April at Assumption High School.  Information about try-outs, practices, and parent commitments will be coming out shortly.

Student Council is sponsoring a pop tab collection homeroom contest that runs through February 3.  The winning homeroom in K-4 and homeroom in 5-8 will have a pizza party or ice cream treat.  The pop tabs will be donated to the Ronald McDonald House Charities in Iowa City and converted into funds for them.

Things have gotten a little lax with our dress code, especially with skirt lengths for older girls.  Expect a renewed effort to make sure we are abiding by our uniform policy.

When a couple of younger students could not go out for recess one day last week, one of our 8th graders sat down to join them in the office.

Scott County Catholic Schools and St. Ambrose University 8th Grade Career Fair

School counselors for the Scott County Catholic Schools are asking for your help as we begin preparing for our annual 8th grade career fair which will be Friday, March 3rd, 2023 at the St Ambrose Rogalski Center.  Presenters are needed for a variety of careers!  Presenters are asked for a time commitment of 8:15am-1:30pm. We ask you to prepare a booth with information about your career (job duties, professional expectations, hours, required education/training, likes & dislikes, etc).  The students always enjoy hands-on activities as well!  Students rotate in groups and complete a career questionnaire about each booth they visit.  A thank you lunch will be provided for presenters and an invite to join us for the celebration Mass at 1:30 at Christ the King Chapel on campus is extended to presenters.  If you are interested in helping please contact Mrs. Wolf at emma.wolf@olvjfkmail.com

Inclement Weather Announcements for JFK

If there should be a weather related late start, early dismissal, or school closure, this information will be sent out via automated email, text, and phone call.  The automated message goes to all primary contacts and is shared as soon as we can.  We also put the information on our website and main Facebook page.  We do not use the local TV stations due to past experiences with errors.  Typically, we will follow the Davenport Community School District, due to bus transportation.

If school is cancelled, we will just let it be a snow/inclement weather day; students will not have to go online for instruction.

On two-hour early dismissals, we do operate our after school childcare programs, but we ask that everyone try to pick up as soon as possible so all can travel safely.

When weather related closings or early dismissals occur, they typically impact all events on JFK’s campus.  Afternoon and evening practices and events are cancelled.

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.

Highlighted Events

Things keep getting added to the calendar.  Check online for more complete information as the below are only some of the highlights.

• Jan 20:  Tie-Dyed, Neon, Bright Colored Out of Uniform Day
• Jan 21:  Parish Appreciation Dinner
• Jan 25:  8th Grade Parent Meeting at Assumption’s Auditorium
• Jan 26:  4/5 Yr Old Scheduled PS Parent/Teacher Conferences.  K-8 Drop-in Parent/Teacher Conferences
• Jan 27:  4/5 Yr Old Scheduled PS Parent/Teacher Conferences.  No 4/5 Yr Old PS Classes
• Jan 28-Feb 4:  Catholic Schools Week

Chad

Catholic Schools Week

Details for Catholic Schools Week are still being determined.  Below is what we have so far, and updates will be made as we get closer to CSW.  H & S has a meeting on Tuesday, and we’ll add their sponsored activities:

Saturday, January 28:

• Mass at 4:30.  Let’s see a wave of JFK spirit wear and/or green and white!
• Open House and Book Fair
  • JFK also receives a percentage of the sales from the book fair, which is used to purchase books for the library. We accept credit and debit cards as well as check and cash. You may also purchase a gift certificate for your child’s teacher to use to purchase a book for the classroom. Please stop in to see what we have this year!

Monday, January 30:

• Dodgeball for Diapers fundraiser for grades 3-8
  • More information to come from Mrs. Tilkens
• Minute to Win It Games for K-2
• Athletic and/or Favorite Team Dress Day/Out of Uniform

Tuesday, January 31:

• Talent Show
  • Grades 5, 1, 2, 3, 4 in that order beginning at about 7:50.
  • Grades K, 6, 7, 8 in that order beginning at about 12:35
  • Every student will be involved in a class/grade level act, and individual acts will also occur.  Information has been emailed separately regarding the talent show.
  • Guests are welcome, but we cannot be more particular about the time of performers.  It all depends upon how many acts there are, how long each act actually is, etc.
• Pajama Day
• Students may also bring a pillow to sit upon

Wednesday, February 1:

• All School Mass with Individual Blessings of Throats
• Spirit Wear Tops or green/white tops.  Bottoms may be out of uniform.
• Bring an Adult Guest to Lunch Day
  • 10:40-11:10     Kindergarten
  • 11:10-11:40     Grades 3 and 4
  • 11:40-12:10     Grades 1 and 2
  • 12:10-12:40     Grades 5 and 6
  • 12:40-1:10       Grades 7 and 8
  • Students’ adult guests may sign their students out from school for the rest of the day, if desired
  • Book fair open
  • More details about signing up for an adult meal and paying for it will be distributed

Thursday, February 2:

• Scott County Catholic Schools Grades 2-12 Mass at Assumption
• Take Pride in Your Uniform Dress Day
• Bingo

Friday, February 3:

• 8th grade vs. Staff Volleyball Games with grades 3-7 cheering them on
• K-2 Special movie or other activity
• Wacky Tacky Out of Uniform Day

Spirit Wear Sale

All Adult, Youth, and Toddler T-Shirts and Crewneck Sweatshirts are 20% off in the Spirit Wear Store through January 15th!

Link to Spirit Wear Store

Please use code Youth20 for discounts on all eligible items at checkout.  Note that items may not be available in time for Catholic Schools Week.

Scott County Catholic Schools and St. Ambrose University 8th Grade Career Fair

School counselors for the Scott County Catholic Schools are asking for your help as we begin preparing for our annual 8th grade career fair which will be Friday, March 3rd, 2023 at the St Ambrose Rogalski Center.  Presenters are needed for a variety of careers!  Presenters are asked for a time commitment of 8:15am-1:30pm. We ask you to prepare a booth with information about your career (job duties, professional expectations, hours, required education/training, likes & dislikes, etc).  The students always enjoy hands-on activities as well!  Students rotate in groups and complete a career questionnaire about each booth they visit.  A thank you lunch will be provided for presenters and an invite to join us for the celebration Mass at 1:30 at Christ the King Chapel on campus is extended to presenters.  If you are interested in helping please contact Mrs. Wolf at emma.wolf@olvjfkmail.com

Inclement Weather Announcements for JFK

If there should be a weather related late start, early dismissal, or school closure, this information will be sent out via automated email, text, and phone call.  The automated message goes to all primary contacts and is shared as soon as we can.  We also put the information on our website and main Facebook page.  We do not use the local TV stations due to past experiences with errors.  Typically, we will follow the Davenport Community School District, due to bus transportation.

If school is cancelled, we will just let it be a snow/inclement weather day; students will not have to go online for instruction.

On two-hour early dismissals, we do operate our after school childcare programs, but we ask that everyone try to pick up as soon as possible so all can travel safely.

When weather related closings or early dismissals occur, they typically impact all events on JFK’s campus.  Afternoon and evening practices and events are cancelled.

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.

Highlighted Events

Things keep getting added to the calendar.  Check online for more complete information as the below are only some of the highlights.

• Jan 11:  Portillo’s Restaurant Night
• Jan 13:  End of 2nd Qtr.  Special Early Dismissal at 12:40 with bus transportation.  No afternoon PS classes.  Pack the Gym at AHS basketball.
• Jan 15:  Boy Scouts Pancake Breakfast
• Jan 16:  Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.  No Classes.  ECLC Open.
• Jan 21:  Parish Appreciation Dinner
• Jan 25:  8th Grade Parent Meeting at Assumption’s Auditorium
• Jan 26:  4/5 Yr Old Scheduled PS Parent/Teacher Conferences.  K-8 Drop-in Parent/Teacher Conferences
• Jan 27:  4/5 Yr Old Scheduled PS Parent/Teacher Conferences.  No 4/5 Yr Old PS Classes
• Jan 28-Feb 4:  Catholic Schools Week

Christmas Decorations Put Away

I think we finally have all of the Christmas decorations put away, but I think the glitter left on the floors will take another six months!

Chad

JFK GROWS Students of the Month

Each morning, students and teachers at JFK recite the JFK Difference:  JFK GROWS.  We put God first, use Respectful behaviors, find Opportunities to serve, are Welcoming to all, and make Safe choices.  Below are the students being recognized at each grade level who have exhibited these traits particularly well this past month:

• Kindergarten: Theo A.
  • Theo always has a positive attitude. He walks into the building every morning with a smile on his face. He can always make his teachers and friends smile. He works hard and gives 100%.
• 1st Grade: Abby W.
  • Abby is kind in her words and actions to her fellow classmates. She says hello to her teachers every morning. She is a great helper in the room.
• 2nd Grade: Charli L.
  • Charli is a great example to other students. She perseveres through difficult tasks and always gives her best in class. She is kind to other students and looks for ways she can help out.
• 3rd Grade: Lillian N.
  • Lilly is an extremely kind and hard working student. She completes high quality work and puts maximum effort into everything she does. Lilly is helpful around the classroom whether it be toward her peers or helping teachers. Lilly exemplifies many qualities of what the JFK difference stands for.
• 4th Grade: Arianna R.
  • Arianna is always respectful to both adults and her peers.  She is always welcoming with a big smile.  Arianna is a great example of someone who works hard and participates in class. She is a fine example to her peers and is always willing to help out.
• 5th Grade: William C.
  • Will welcomes people into the classroom and uses his manners throughout each and every day. He takes pride in his work whether it be for school, art, athletics, or music.
• 6th Grade: Mariska R.
  • Mariska is always willing to help out her teachers and classmates. She is willing to stay after class to help clean up and willing to help her classmates whenever they need help.
• 7th Grade: Ellie D.
  • Ellie is a little ball of sunshine, even if she doesn’t realize it. She is always willing to go above and beyond to be helpful to not only teachers but other students as well. Ellie does not like to see someone left out and will try and make sure each person is included. She has a great sense of humor and uses it often to diffuse tension within the classroom. Ellie is a great asset her homeroom.
• 8th Grade:  Isabella M.
  • Bella comes into the room with a positive attitude and is always willing to help the teacher and her peers. She goes above and beyond on her coursework and will email her instructors if unsure of assignments or grades.

Civic Oration Final Round

Before Christmas break, we had our final round of civic oration.  Please join me in congratulating the following winners:

5/6 grade division:  Evy S (1st), Caitlyn C (2nd), Greyson C (3rd)

7/8 grade division:  Quinn C (1st), Marissa B (2nd), Natalie S (3rd)

We would also like to thank our guest judges:  Andy Burman, Larry Flathman, Monica Flathman, Dave Hinchman, Denny Prior, and Ethan Connors.

Civic oration is the academic activity par excellence for grades 5-8.  This gifted and talented activity is completed by every 5th-8th grader.  It starts as a research paper and concludes with successive rounds of a speech competition.  This year’s topic was great inventions.  While not every student advances to subsequent rounds in the competition phase of civic oration, every student does participate in this talented and gifted activity.  It truly is an academic activity that illustrates that there is a difference in education at JFK.

Flag Essay Winner

Each fall the 5th graders write an essay about what the U.S. Flag means to them.  The essay is then entered into a contest.  This year’s winner was Laney  G.

New Band Instructor

JFK welcomes Claire Schaecher to its staff.  Ms. Schaecher is a spring graduate of Augustana.  She taught in the Milwaukee schools this fall and was a long-time private voice student of Mrs. VanSpeybroeck.  Ms. Schaecher will take over our instrumental instruction within the next few weeks.

Scott County Catholic Schools and St. Ambrose University 8th Grade Career Fair

School counselors for the Scott County Catholic Schools are asking for your help as we begin preparing for our annual 8th grade career fair which will be Friday, March 3rd, 2023 at the St Ambrose Rogalski Center.  Presenters are needed for a variety of careers!  Presenters are asked for a time commitment of 8:15am-1:30pm. We ask you to prepare a booth with information about your career (job duties, professional expectations, hours, required education/training, likes & dislikes, etc).  The students always enjoy hands-on activities as well!  Students rotate in groups and complete a career questionnaire about each booth they visit.  A thank you lunch will be provided for presenters and an invite to join us for the celebration Mass at 1:30 at Christ the King Chapel on campus is extended to presenters.  If you are interested in helping please contact Mrs. Wolf at emma.wolf@olvjfkmail.com

Substitutes Still Needed

JFK is in need of substitutes.  Prior to the pandemic, we had ten people available to substitute for JFK.  We currently have three substitutes on our list.  Since the beginning of the school year, we are averaging about 3.2 staff members absent per day and 4.1 in the last four weeks.  Luckily, we don’t always need a substitute to cover a position, but there are times when shifting duties seems like an every day occurrence.

We are in need of substitutes for both long-term assignments (like maternity leaves) and short-term assignments (like when a teacher needs to stay home with his/her own sick child or has an appointment).  You do not need a teaching degree to work as a substitute.  A minimum of an associate’s degree or 60 college degree hours from a college/university are enough to qualify.  The process to become a substitute teacher includes completion of a 15-20 hour workshop, multiple background checks, and applications with the Iowa Board of Education Examiners and JFK.  Most workshops, such as the ones below, are now virtual:

• Jan. 10-13, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Feb. 6-9, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Mar. 7-10, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

There is even a self-paced option for the workshop.  Iowa’s Keystone Area Education Agency has good information:  Substitute Authorization

Recognizing the need for substitute teachers, JFK’s board has authorized a $450 bonus at the pay period following the fifth day of substituting at JFK to the first five people to take advantage of this offer. The bonus will essentially cover the workshop fee, license application fee, background check fee, and pay an amount for the workshop time.  Subs earn just over $100 per day at JFK.  For more information about substituting, please contact me.

8th Graders Attending Algebra at AHS and Attendance on Jan 2 and 3

With Assumption not having school on January 2 or 3, JFK 8th graders who have Algebra at AHS need to be at JFK in time for their second period class, which starts at 8:35 a.m.  If they need to be at school earlier, there will be supervision for them.

Helping Our Neighbors

Over the break, there was a fire in one of the apartment buildings across from JFK.  Tragically, one person perished, and one was in critical condition.  As many as fourteen households have been displaced until repairs can be made to the building.  As school comes back into session, we will be working with the staff of OLV and others in the community to see what sort of help our neighbors need.

Inclement Weather Announcements for JFK

If there should be a weather related late start, early dismissal, or school closure, this information will be sent out via automated email, text, and phone call.  The automated message goes to all primary contacts and is shared as soon as we can.  We also put the information on our website and main Facebook page.  We do not use the local TV stations due to past experiences with errors.  Typically, we will follow the Davenport Community School District, due to bus transportation.

If school is cancelled, we will just let it be a snow/inclement weather day; students will not have to go online for instruction.

On two-hour early dismissals, we do operate our after school childcare programs, but we ask that everyone try to pick up as soon as possible so all can travel safely.

When weather related closings or early dismissals occur, they typically impact all events on JFK’s campus.  Afternoon and evening practices and events are cancelled.

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.

JFK Christmas Traditions

It’s just not Christmas without 5th grade band students playing Good King Wenceslas, K-2 students singing Christmas songs in the church, or a Christmas musical program by students.  Thankfully, we had all three this year!

Highlighted Events

Things keep getting added to the calendar.  Check online for more complete information as the below are only some of the highlights.

• Jan 2:  Classes resume.  (I know it seems odd, and I even have to keep checking it myself!)
• Jan 3:  Lego League Out of Uniform
• Jan 11:  Portillo’s Restaurant Night
• Jan 13:  End of 2nd Qtr.  Special Early Dismissal at 12:40.  No afternoon PS classes
• Jan 15:  Boy Scouts Pancake Breakfast
• Jan 16:  Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.  No Classes.  ECLC Open.
• Jan 21:  Parish Appreciation Dinner
• Jan 25:  8th Grade Parent Meeting at Assumption’s Auditorium
• Jan 28-Feb 4:  Catholic Schools Week  (Details to be released within the next couple of weeks — Information regarding the talent show was sent home before Christmas)

Chad

Civic Oration Speeches Rounds 1 and 2

The academic activity for grades 5-8 par excellence is “civic oration.”  This gifted and talented activity is completed by EVERY 5th-8th grader.  It starts as a research paper and concludes with successive rounds of a speech competition.  This year’s topic was great inventions.  While not every student advances to subsequent rounds in the competition phase of civic oration, every student does participate in this talented and gifted activity.

Each year at the 8th grade graduation, I mention a little about each student.  To aid me, I ask students several questions.  One of them is what is your best or proudest accomplishment at JFK.  The number one answer, mentioned by nearly 70% of last year’s 8th graders, for example, is always civic oration.  Students may not particularly like civic oration themselves, but they still acknowledge that it was one of the best educational experiences for them.  It is something that really illustrates to the recognition of everyone that there is a difference in education at JFK.

There are two divisions in the competition aspect of civic oration:  5/6 and 7/8.

Students who advanced from the first round of competition in the 5/6 division were the following:

5th grade:  William C., Greyson C., Isabelle F., Laney G., Natalie R., and Paloma S.

6th grade:  Caitlyn C., Derek C., Mason N., Cooper P., Sylvia R., and Evy S.

7th grade:  Ellie D., Hailey E., Leia P., Natalie S., AvaMae W., and Laney W.

8th grade:  Charlie A., Marissa B., Quinn C., Cayden F., Harper M., and Payten P.

Advancing to the final round of competition, which will be held on December 15th:

5th/6th:  Greyson, Caitlyn, Derek, Cooper, Sylvia, and Evy

7th/8th:  Charlie, Marissa, Quinn, Cayden, Leia, and Natalie

Scott County Catholic Schools and St. Ambrose University 8th Grade Career Fair

Substitutes Still Needed

JFK is in need of substitutes.  Prior to the pandemic, we had ten people available to substitute for JFK.  We currently have three substitutes on our list.  We are averaging about 2.8 staff members absent per day since the school year began, and 4.4 for the past month.  Luckily, we don’t always need a substitute to cover a position, but there are times when shifting duties seems like an every day occurrence.

We are in need of substitutes for both long-term assignments (like maternity leaves) and short-term assignments (like when a teacher needs to stay home with his/her own sick child or has an appointment).  You do not need a teaching degree to work as a substitute.  A minimum of an associate’s degree or 60 college degree hours from a college/university are enough to qualify.  The process to become a substitute teacher includes completion of a 15-20 hour workshop, multiple background checks, and applications with the Iowa Board of Education Examiners and JFK.  Most workshops, such as the ones below, are now virtual:

• Dec. 12-15, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Jan. 10-13, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Feb. 6-9, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Mar. 7-10, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

There is even a self-paced option for the workshop.  Iowa’s Keystone Area Education Agency has good information:  Substitute Authorization

Recognizing the need for substitute teachers, JFK’s board has authorized a $450 bonus at the pay period following the fifth day of substituting at JFK to the first five people to take advantage of this offer. The bonus will essentially cover the workshop fee, license application fee, background check fee, and pay an amount for the workshop time.  Subs earn just over $100 per day at JFK.

For more information about substituting, please contact me.

The Mississippi Valley Student Tuition Organization (MVSTO) funds most of the financial assistance for students attending Catholic schools in Scott County, including JFK.  Over 100 students from OLV receive financial assistance to JFK or Assumption.  Donations to the MVSTO are not only greatly needed by students, but they also have a tax incentive for the donors:  Iowa taxpayers can claim a 75% direct state tax credit for donations made to the MVSTO.  A donor making a $500 donation can take a $375 credit off what they would otherwise owe the state of Iowa.  Donors may also be eligible for a federal tax credit, depending upon their tax status.  In order to qualify for the tax credit on one’s 2022 taxes, donations must be made before January 1st.

For more information, please contact Assumption High School, 563-326-5313.

Highlighted Events

Things keep getting added to the calendar.  Check online for more complete information as the below are only some of the highlights.

• Dec 12:  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
• Dec 13:  K-2 Christmas program
• Dec 14:  3 Yr Old PS Family Event
• Dec 15:  Civic Oration Final Round.  Band Concert at AHS Auditorium
• Dec 16.  Red/Green/White Dress Day.  2 Hr Early Dismissal (12:40).  No PM PS
• Dec 17 – Jan 1:  Christmas break
• Dec 23/26:  ECLC Closed
• Dec 29/30:  ECLC Closed
• Jan 2:  Classes resume.  (I know it seems odd, and I even have to keep checking it myself!)

Enough Reading Material?

Do your kids have enough reading material for Christmas break?  Whenever we approach a school break, I always assess whether or not I need to go to the library.  I’d hate to have the library closed and not have enough reading material!

I also find it interesting that I run into so many educators at the library with their own kids.  It’s like they know something.

Christmas Project

A few weeks ago, I mentioned that I spent a good deal of the Thanksgiving break painting a woodworking project.  A number of people have asked me what it was or to show them a picture of it.  Well, here it is.  Now, it’s up to my wife to do the final decorating of the Christmas train!

Chad

JFK GROWS Students of the Month

Each morning, students and teachers at JFK recite the JFK Difference:  JFK GROWS.  We put God first, use Respectful behaviors, find Opportunities to serve, are Welcoming to all, and make Safe choices.  Below are the students being recognized at each grade level who have exhibited these traits particularly well this past month:

• Kindergarten: Elias F.
  • Elias is a shining star! He works hard, is kind to everyone, has a winning personality, and is a great student overall.  He knows what it means to try and work hard to meet goals and isn’t afraid to ask for help.
• 1st Grade: Olivia M.
  • Olivia is a positive role model for her classmates as she makes safe/good choices consistently, independent of whether or not there is direct adult supervision.  She is a responsible, kind, and hard working first grader!
• 2nd Grade: Lani A.
  • Lani always has her classmates’ backs. She is there to lift them up when they are sad or frustrated.  She gives 150% all day, everyday.
• 3rd Grade: Peyton P.
  • Peyton works very hard on every assignment and has an awesome attitude towards learning.  She can always be counted on to stay focused when a lesson is being presented, showing her desire to learn.  She also can always seem to find something positive happening in the classroom and shares it with others in such a happy voice that it creates an amazingly positive atmosphere.
• 4th Grade:  James E.
  • James is kind and respectful to everyone.  He works extremely hard as well.
• 5th Grade:  Sierra M.
  • Sierra is always positive toward others, and she treats her classmates and teachers with respect.  She takes school seriously and does a nice job following directions.  She never complains, and she acts in a mature manner.
• 6th Grade:  Alayna A.
  • Alayna  is very respectful and follows classroom rules and procedures.  She is always willing to help those around her.
• 7th Grade:  Noah F.
  • Noah is truly ‘Mr. Dependable.’  If you ask something of Noah, consider it done, sometimes before you even asked for it! Noah is extremely self-motivated and often times only needs to be guided and encouraged in his own learning.  The level of his passion for music and band set him apart from many others.  Finally, Noah is a living embodiment of being impeccable with one’s word.
• 8th Grade:  Maizy E.
  • Maizy has done a fantastic job with her participation in Civic Oration. She asks questions, accepts feedback, and works hard in class. She is adept at helping others to stay on task as well.

Scott County Catholic Schools and St. Ambrose University 8th Grade Career Fair

Substitutes Still Needed

JFK is in need of substitutes.  Prior to the pandemic, we had ten people available to substitute for JFK.  We currently have three substitutes on our list.  We are averaging about 2.8 staff members absent per day since the school year began, and 4.4 for the past month.  Luckily, we don’t always need a substitute to cover a position, but there are times when shifting duties seems like an every day occurrence.

We are in need of substitutes for both long-term assignments (like maternity leaves) and short-term assignments (like when a teacher needs to stay home with his/her own sick child or has an appointment).  You do not need a teaching degree to work as a substitute.  A minimum of an associate’s degree or 60 college degree hours from a college/university are enough to qualify.  The process to become a substitute teacher includes completion of a 15-20 hour workshop, multiple background checks, and applications with the Iowa Board of Education Examiners and JFK.  Most workshops, such as the ones below, are now virtual:

• Dec. 12-15, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Jan. 10-13, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Feb. 6-9, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Mar. 7-10, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

There is even a self-paced option for the workshop.  Iowa’s Keystone Area Education Agency has good information:  Substitute Authorization

Recognizing the need for substitute teachers, JFK’s board has authorized a $450 bonus at the pay period following the fifth day of substituting at JFK to the first five people to take advantage of this offer. The bonus will essentially cover the workshop fee, license application fee, background check fee, and pay an amount for the workshop time.  Subs earn just over $100 per day at JFK.

For more information about substituting, please contact me.

The Mississippi Valley Student Tuition Organization (MVSTO) funds most of the financial assistance for students attending Catholic schools in Scott County, including JFK.  Over 100 students from OLV receive financial assistance to JFK or Assumption.  Donations to the MVSTO are not only greatly needed by students, but they also have a tax incentive for the donors:  Iowa taxpayers can claim a 75% direct state tax credit for donations made to the MVSTO.  A donor making a $500 donation can take a $375 credit off what they would otherwise owe the state of Iowa.  Donors may also be eligible for a federal tax credit, depending upon their tax status.  In order to qualify for the tax credit on one’s 2022 taxes, donations must be made before January 1st.

For more information, please contact Assumption High School, 563-326-5313.

Highlighted Events

Things keep getting added to the calendar.  Check online for more complete information as the below are only some of the highlights.

• Dec 5:  3rd Grade Gingerbread Houses in cafeteria.  Civic Oration First Rnd
• Dec 6:  3/4 Christmas show in gym
• Dec 7:  1st/2nd Grades Field Trip to AHS’ Children’s Theater
• Dec 8:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception.  Dental & Vision screening for K, 1, 3, 5, 7.
• Dec 9:  4/5 Yr Old PS Family Events.  3rd/4th grades out of uniform
• Dec 12:  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
• Dec 13:  K-2 Christmas program
• Dec 14:  3 Yr Old PS Family Event
• Dec 15:  Civic Oration Final Round.  Band Concert at AHS Auditorium
• Dec 16.  Red/Green/White Dress Day.  2 Hr Early Dismissal (12:40).  No PM PS
• Dec 17 – Jan 1:  Christmas break
• Dec 23/26:  ECLC Closed
• Dec 29/30:  ECLC Closed

What’s with Wednesdays?

I wish I could figure out why I always seem to be running later on Wednesdays than any other day.  I get up at the same time and follow the same routine:  read the newspaper and look at my online city game while I try to wake up,  check messages for last minute staff absences, and get dressed/ready for school.  Without any change in routine, it always seems as if I’m running behind just on Wednesdays.  Then, I remember it’s also garbage day at our house on Wednesdays, and I really start running behind.  This whole process has been the same for many years so I know it’s going to happen, and yet it still does!  What’s with Wednesdays?

Chad

Sacrament of Reconciliation This Week

First Reconciliation is Thursday at 6:00 p.m.  Second graders can be out of uniform on Friday.

Students in grades 3-8 will receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation on Friday afternoon.

Substitutes Still Needed

JFK is in need of substitutes.  Prior to the pandemic, we had ten people available to substitute for JFK.  We currently have three substitutes on our list.  We are averaging about 2.8 staff members absent per day since the school year began, and 4.4 for the past month.  Luckily, we don’t always need a substitute to cover a position, but there are times when shifting duties seems like an every day occurrence.

We are in need of substitutes for both long-term assignments (like maternity leaves) and short-term assignments (like when a teacher needs to stay home with his/her own sick child or has an appointment).  You do not need a teaching degree to work as a substitute.  A minimum of an associate’s degree or 60 college degree hours from a college/university are enough to qualify.  The process to become a substitute teacher includes completion of a 15-20 hour workshop, multiple background checks, and applications with the Iowa Board of Education Examiners and JFK.  Most workshops, such as the ones below, are now virtual:

• Dec. 12-15, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Jan. 10-13, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Feb. 6-9, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Mar. 7-10, 6:00p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

There is even a self-paced option for the workshop.  Iowa’s Keystone Area Education Agency has good information:  Substitute Authorization

Recognizing the need for substitute teachers, JFK’s board has authorized a $450 bonus at the pay period following the fifth day of substituting at JFK to the first five people to take advantage of this offer. The bonus will essentially cover the workshop fee, license application fee, background check fee, and pay an amount for the workshop time.  Subs earn just over $100 per day at JFK.

For more information about substituting, please contact me.

The Mississippi Valley Student Tuition Organization (MVSTO) funds most of the financial assistance for students attending Catholic schools in Scott County, including JFK.  Over 100 students from OLV receive financial assistance to JFK or Assumption.  Donations to the MVSTO are not only greatly needed by students, but they also have a tax incentive for the donors:  Iowa taxpayers can claim a 75% direct state tax credit for donations made to the MVSTO.  A donor making a $500 donation can take a $375 credit off what they would otherwise owe the state of Iowa.  Donors may also be eligible for a federal tax credit, depending upon their tax status.  In order to qualify for the tax credit on one’s 2022 taxes, donations must be made before January 1st.

For more information, please contact Assumption High School, 563-326-5313.

Highlighted Events

Things keep getting added to the calendar.  Check online for more complete information.  November and December are going to be busy!

• Nov 30:  End of the 2nd Mid-qtr
• Dec 1:  First Reconciliation
• Dec 2:  JFK Reconciliation during the school day.  H & S Ladies Night Trivia
• Dec 4:  Christmas Cantata by the OLV adult choir (2:00 p.m.)
• Dec 5:  3rd Grade Gingerbread Houses in cafeteria.  Civic Oration First Rnd
• Dec 6:  3/4 Christmas show in gym
• Dec 7:  1st/2nd Grades Field Trip to AHS’ Children’s Theater
• Dec 8:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception.  Dental & Vision screening for K, 1, 3, 5, 7.
• Dec 9:  4/5 Yr Old PS Family Events
• Dec 12:  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
• Dec 13:  K-2 Christmas program
• Dec 14:  3 Yr Old PS Family Event
• Dec 15:  Civic Oration Final Round.  Band Concert at AHS Auditorium
• Dec 16.  Red/Green/White Dress Day.  2 Hr Early Dismissal (12:40).  No PM PS
• Dec 17 – Jan 1:  Christmas break
• Dec 23/26:  ECLC Closed
• Dec 29/30:  ECLC Closed

What Did  I Do?

Last week I wondered what I would do over the Thanksgiving break as I would no longer be doing the first draft of the next school year’s budget as the regional Scott County Catholic Schools office is working on those budgets.  The answer is paint.  I have a wood working project that I am preparing for the outdoor Christmas decorations at our house.  I enjoy the creativity and challenges of woodworking, but the “finishing” part gets old fast — sand, paint the inside, paint the outside, paint the top, paint the bottom, etc.  And, that’s just with one color and one coat!  Repeat for each coat of paint.  I think I have over 16 hours of just sanding and painting in this project.

Chad

Special Early Dismissal on November 23

Students are dismissed at 12:40 on November 23.  There is no afternoon preschool.  ECLC and aftercare are operating.  Bus transportation is available.  It’s been many years since we didn’t have the day off before Thanksgiving!

The Mississippi Valley Student Tuition Organization (MVSTO) funds most of the financial assistance for students attending Catholic schools in Scott County, including JFK.  Over 100 students from OLV receive financial assistance to JFK or Assumption.  Donations to the MVSTO are not only greatly needed by students, but they also have a tax incentive for the donors:  Iowa taxpayers can claim a 75% direct state tax credit for donations made to the MVSTO.  A donor making a $500 donation can take a $375 credit off what they would otherwise owe the state of Iowa.  Donors may also be eligible for a federal tax credit, depending upon their tax status.  In order to qualify for the tax credit on one’s 2022 taxes, donations must be made before January 1st.

For more information, please contact Assumption High School, 563-326-5313.

Highlighted Events

Things keep getting added to the calendar.  Check online for more complete information.  November and December are going to be busy!

• Nov 21:  2nd Grade Sacrament preparation (6 – Parish Center).  Crusader Choir Concert ( 7 – Church)
• Nov 22:  Green/Camo Out of Uniform Dress Day
• Nov 23:  2 hr early dismissal (12:40).  No PM PS
• Nov 24-25:  Thanksgiving break.  No Classes.  ECLC closed.
• Nov 27:  First Sunday of Advent
• Nov 30:  End of the 2nd Mid-qtr
• Dec 1:  First Reconciliation
• Dec 2:  JFK Reconciliation during the school day.  H & S Ladies Night Trivia
• Dec 4:  Christmas Cantata by the OLV adult choir (2:00 p.m.)
• Dec 5:  3rd Grade Gingerbread Houses.  Civic Oration First Rnd
• Dec 6:  3/4 Christmas show
• Dec 8:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception.  Dental & Vision screening for K, 1, 3, 5, 7.
• Dec 9:  4/5 Yr Old PS Family Events
• Dec 12:  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
• Dec 13:  K-2 Christmas program
• Dec 14:  3 Yr Old PS Family Event
• Dec 15:  Civic Oration Final Round.  Band Concert
• Dec 16.  Red/Green/White Dress Day.  2 Hr Early Dismissal (12:40).  No PM PS
• Dec 17 – Jan 1:  Christmas break

What Will I Do?

Over the past 20 years or so, it has become a Thanksgiving break tradition for me to do the first draft of the JFK budget for the following school year.  As we move toward becoming the regional Scott County Catholic School system, which becomes fully effective on July 1, 2023, a good deal of the 2023-24 budget work is being done at the regional level already.  Now what am I going to do over the Thanksgiving break?

Chad