Author: csteimle

Fr. Jake’s Announcement Regarding the Development of a Regionalized Catholic School System in Scott County

Click HERE for the special December Principal’s Post announcing the endorsement of a regionalized Catholic school system in Scott County.

Advent Began December 1st

Advent began December 1st.  Advent is a great time to renew one’s efforts to attend Mass each weekend.

Don’t Forget Victory Vouchers

As you are doing your shopping this holiday season, don’t forget to use Victory Vouchers.  You purchase gift certificates or gift cards through OLV at face value, and the parish purchases them at a program discount.  The difference ends up being a painless fund-raiser; the card is worth exactly what you pay for it.  In addition to this fund-raising element, our Victory Voucher program also allows parishioners to receive a 2% credit on all purchases that can be directed to school tuition, youth ministry programming, Faith Formation fees, or other selected areas within the parish.  The parish regularly stocks Victory Vouchers from over 50 national and local businesses, and others are available by special order.  HyVee participates through a coupon program that you can print yourself.  Vouchers are sold on Sundays in the Gathering Space at church from 7:30-11 AM, at the Parish Office on weekdays from 7:30-4:00 PM, or by leaving a prepaid order at the parish or school office.  For more information, check out the information on the Victory Voucher section of our website.  Vouchers can also be purchased online at shopwithscrip.com.

School Tuition Organizations

The following is edited and reprinted from Fr. Jake’s bulletin article two weeks ago:

Many parishioners are familiar with the Family Tuition Plan because of the financial assistance they have received through this program….  The Family Tuition Plan began in 2004 as a means to help families with tuition assistance who attend the five Catholic schools in Scott County. Families who want to participate in the program have to apply for assistance every year. The application for assistance takes into consideration several aspects of a family’s financial picture, including the size of a family. Depending upon the amount of money available in the Family Tuition Plan and guidelines set by the State of Iowa, tuition assistance is then dispersed to families.  Last year, the Family Tuition Plan helped support 634 students with a total of $1,280,903 in financial assistance throughout Scott County. Our parish had 148 students at JFK and Assumption High School (AHS) receiving $281,439 in financial assistance. In other words, OLV parishioners received 22% of the total assistance available in all of Scott County. OLV is [the] largest single recipient of financial assistance in Scott County….

The money used for the Family Tuition Program is raised primarily through donations given to the Mississippi Valley School Tuition Organization (MVSTO). The MVSTO’s primary mission every year is to raise approximately $1,200,000 to fund the Family Tuition Plan. For anyone interested in donating to the MVSTO, there is also a financial incentive. The Iowa Education Opportunities Act, which passed in June 2006, allows Iowa taxpayers to claim a 65% direct state tax credit for all donations made to the MVSTO. For example, if someone is able to make a $1000 donation to MVSTO, this individual will receive a tax credit certificate for $650 that is applied when s/he files their state taxes. Depending on each person’s tax situation, you might also be able to deduct some of this same $1000 donation from your federal taxes as well.  In the end, a person’s donation to the MVSTO helps students attend Catholic schools in Scott County, but it also helps to offset some of the tax burden that a donor might have for the tax year….  [A]ny donation would be appreciated. Mr. Andy Craig said that he is willing to answer any questions that parishioners might have about donations or the overall mission of the MVSTO. Mrs. Judy Johnson, who is a parishioner and Lay Trustee of our OLV, also serves on the board of the MVSTO and she would be happy to answer any questions that you may have.

Highlighted Upcoming Dates

It’s starting to get very busy for every grade.  Below are some highlights.  Please see the website for a more complete calendar and look for grade specific notes from teachers.

Dec 3:  JFK Reconciliation for 3rd-8th graders

Dec 4:  All school Mass with Bishop Zinkula.  End of 2nd mid-qtr

Dec 5:  First Reconciliation

Dec 9:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception Holy Day Mass.  Civic Oration

Dec 11:  5th-8th Grade Out of Uniform

Dec 12:  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe all school Mass.  3/4 Christmas show.  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe All School Mass

Dec 13:  4 yr old PS show

Dec 15:  Communal Penance Service at OLV

Dec 16:  3rd grade gingerbread houses.  Skate Night. Communal Penance Service at St. John Vianney

Dec 17:  Band Concert (day at JFK, night at AHS)

Dec 18:  3 yr old PS family activity

Dec 19:  K-2 Christmas show

Dec 20:  All school Mass.  Special dismissal at 12:40

Dec 21 – Jan 5:  Christmas Break.  Check the school calendar for dates when ECLC is closed.

OLV parish bulletin:  Click HERE or use the following link/url: https://www.olvjfk.com/olv/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/11/December-1-2019.pdf

Indoor Recess Games on Teachers’ Wishlists

Just about every teacher has indoor recess games on their wish lists.  Games like ConnectFour, Trouble, CandyLand, Uno, etc. can be played in the 15 minutes of recess by students of multiple ages.  If your child would like to give his/her teacher a gift this Christmas season, please consider an indoor recess game.

If Recess is the Only Outdoor Time

As I was covering recess duty for a teacher last week, I couldn’t help but wonder, “What if recess is the only opportunity kids have to play outside?”  When I was growing up, there were no “play dates.”  We just rang the doorbells until we had gathered up everyone possible, and we played outside with whomever was available.  The oldest in our group was four years older than me, and the youngest was about three years younger than me.  We played in backyards, front yards, and the street.  As we got older, we were allowed to go to the “park,” which was about half a block from our houses.  The park didn’t have any play equipment or baseball fields.  It was just grass along a creek, like Duck Creek only without even a bike path.  The baseball diamond that we created in the park was dirt spots where we had worn the grass away.  Two blocks to the south of us and three blocks to the north of us were other “diamonds” used by the kids in those areas.  We played for hours outside without any adult supervision.  When our parents wanted us home, they’d ring bells attached to the houses.  Each bell had a distinct sound, and we could tell who had to go home by the sound of the bell.  Things aren’t the same for kids these days.  I can barely imagine what it’s like in highly urban areas, but, even in Davenport, what if recess at school is the only opportunity kids have to regularly play outside?

Chad

Advent Begins December 1st

Advent begins next Sunday, December 1st.  Advent would be a great time to renew one’s efforts to attend Mass each weekend.

Giving Thanks

Hide the Turkeys!

Kindergartners are trying to save the turkeys!

 

Navigating Technology Together

The Navigating Technology Together meeting of parents last week was eye-opening.    Dr. Lindsey Day (another former student of mine) had an interesting presentation that focused on TikTok, which I didn’t even know existed until earlier this fall.  The information and messaging available to students seems to start out pretty innocent, if the account is made by someone who is twelve years old or younger (and is honest about his/her age).  As soon as the account holder turns thirteen, however, the type of information and content that is PUSHED to the user is shocking.  One doesn’t even have to go looking for the shocking content; it comes to the user!

With about 45% of 10 to 12 year olds in the US having not only their own smartphones but smartphones with an Internet service plan (Nielsen report from February 2017), will you be ready?  Will your child?

The following is an interesting blog post on how cell phones and social media have changed the landscape.  Click here to read the story:  Comparing 2008 with 2018.

Don’t Forget Victory Vouchers

As you are doing your shopping this holiday season, don’t forget to use Victory Vouchers.  You purchase gift certificates or gift cards through OLV at face value, and the parish purchases them at a program discount.  The difference ends up being a painless fund-raiser; the card is worth exactly what you pay for it.  In addition to this fund-raising element, our Victory Voucher program also allows parishioners to receive a 2% credit on all purchases that can be directed to school tuition, youth ministry programming, Faith Formation fees, or other selected areas within the parish.  The parish regularly stocks Victory Vouchers from over 50 national and local businesses, and others are available by special order.  HyVee participates through a coupon program that you can print yourself.  Vouchers are sold on Sundays in the Gathering Space at church from 7:30-11 AM, at the Parish Office on weekdays from 7:30-4:00 PM, or by leaving a prepaid order at the parish or school office.  For more information, check out the information on the Victory Voucher section of our website.  Vouchers can also be purchased online at shopwithscrip.com.

School Tuition Organizations

The following is edited and reprinted from Fr. Jake’s article in this past weekend’s bulletin:

During the Board of Education meeting two weeks ago, Mr. Andy Craig, who serves as the President of Assumption High, presented the annual report of the Family Tuition Plan. Many parishioners are familiar with the Family Tuition Plan because of the financial assistance they have received through this program….  The Family Tuition Plan began in 2004 as a means to help families with tuition assistance who attend the five Catholic schools in Scott County. Families who want to participate in the program have to apply for assistance every year. The application for assistance takes into consideration several aspects of a family’s financial picture, including the size of a family. Depending upon the amount of money available in the Family Tuition Plan and guidelines set by the State of Iowa, tuition assistance is then dispersed to families.  Last year, the Family Tuition Plan helped support 634 students with a total of $1,280,903 in financial assistance throughout Scott County. Our parish had 148 students at JFK and Assumption High School (AHS) receiving $281,439 in financial assistance. In other words, OLV parishioners received 22% of the total assistance available in all of Scott County. OLV is [the] largest single recipient of financial assistance in Scott County….  [P]arishioners have told me first-hand how the financial assistance is giving their children the opportunity to attend both JFK and AHS.

The money used for the Family Tuition Program is raised primarily through donations given to the Mississippi Valley School Tuition Organization (MVSTO). The MVSTO’s primary mission every year is to raise approximately $1,200,000 to fund the Family Tuition Plan. For anyone interested in donating to the MVSTO, there is also a financial incentive. The Iowa Education Opportunities Act, which passed in June 2006, allows Iowa taxpayers to claim a 65% direct state tax credit for all donations made to the MVSTO. For example, if someone is able to make a $1000 donation to MVSTO, this individual will receive a tax credit certificate for $650 that is applied when s/he files their state taxes. Depending on each person’s tax situation, you might also be able to deduct some of this same $1000 donation from your federal taxes as well.  In the end, a person’s donation to the MVSTO helps students attend Catholic schools in Scott County, but it also helps to offset some of the tax burden that a donor might have for the tax year….  [A]ny donation would be appreciated. Mr. Andy Craig said that he is willing to answer any questions that parishioners might have about donations or the overall mission of the MVSTO. Mrs. Judy Johnson, who is a parishioner and Lay Trustee of our OLV, also serves on the board of the MVSTO and she would be happy to answer any questions that you may have.

Highlighted Upcoming Dates

It’s starting to get very busy for every grade.  Below are some highlights.  Please see the website for a more complete calendar and look for grade specific notes from teachers.

Nov 26:  JFK’s Toys for Tots drive ends

Nov 27:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC open.

Nov 28-29:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC closed.

Dec 3:  JFK Reconciliation for 3rd-8th graders

Dec 4:  All school Mass with Bishop Zinkula.  End of 2nd mid-qtr

Dec 5:  First Reconciliation

Dec 9:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception Holy Day Mass.  Civic Oration

Dec 12:  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe all school Mass.  3/4 Christmas show.  Feast

Dec 13:  4 yr old PS show

Dec 16:  3rd grade gingerbread houses.  Skate Night

Dec 17:  Band Concert (day at JFK, night at AHS)

Dec 18:  3 yr old PS family activity

Dec 19:  K-2 Christmas show

Dec 20:  All school Mass.  Special dismissal at 12:40

Dec 21 – Jan 5:  Christmas Break.  Check the school calendar for dates when ECLC is closed.

OLV parish bulletin:  Click HERE or use the following link/url: https://www.olvjfk.com/olv/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/11/1032800052C-112419.pdf

Praying Hard

We’ve been praying extra hard in my family this past week.  My daughter’s boyfriend’s mother had a stroke.  Through lots of praying and the wonders of modern medicine, it seems she may be through the worst of it, but she has a long way to go, and her life will likely never be the same.  Please keep her in your prayers.

Wishing you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving!

Chad

Mock Trial Teams Compete

JFK’s Mock Trial teams competed last weekend at the Scott County courthouse.  We had two teams: a 6th grade team and a 7th/8th grade team.  Teams were coached by Mike Motto and Paul Macek with Mrs. Logan acting as our staff liaison.  Although neither of our teams advanced to “state,” the following students received individual recognition:

Outstanding attorneys:  Olivia F., Sean B., Brandon G., and Elexa A.

Outstanding witnesses:  Oscar K., Will A., and Cleary C.

Giving Thanks

 

 

Repeated Content Regarding Cell Phones and Social Media

Over the years, I have done several postings regarding cell phone usage and social media.  They are still relevant today with nearly every significant issue at school somehow tied into social media, either because it happens through social media or it is discussed and persists through comments on social media.  So far, the youngest students at JFK we have seen with issues regarding cell phone use have been eight years old.  Will you be ready?

With about 45% of 10 to 12 year olds in the US having not only their own smartphones but smartphones with a service plan (Nielsen report from February 2017), do you know what the kids are doing with their phones?

• What apps are they using?  Have you tried them yourself?
• What social media accounts are they using, how are they using them, and how often do you monitor their activity?  Just because a social media company says that no one under a certain age can have an account, doesn’t mean kids don’t fudge on their age.
• Are they “roasting” each other or doing “burns?”  How should they respond when they are the target of the burns?  You’d be shocked at the vulgar and vile language that students will use in the “anonymity” of the electronic age.
• What will they (and you) do when they receive inappropriate pictures taken off the Internet and from people they actually know?  The average age of first exposure to pornography is around eleven.  If eleven is average, what will they and you do if they are even younger?
• What shows are they watching in an era when family members are watching more and more shows independently on their own Internet connected devices than gathered around a television as a family?  What are the ratings on the shows they watch?  Are they just “Youtubing” random videos?
• What group chats are they in?  Who monitors them?  What will they (and you) do when the chat turns ugly?
• Do you know how to block things on phones or restrict settings?
• Do you know how to not only “delete” but then to empty the “trash” on phones?
• Are you modeling good social media use yourself?

The following is an interesting blog post on how cell phones and social media have changed the landscape.  Click here to read the story:  Comparing 2008 with 2018.

Issues of social media and technology cross all demographic and geographic groups.  St. Paul’s has recently started a parent group, NTT (Navigating Technology Together) that is now expanding to the other Catholic schools. This month’s topic is “pornography and our children” with Dr. Lyndsey Day.  NTT is an evening of awareness and discussion.  The November meeting is Tuesday, November 19th at 6:30 p.m. in St. Paul’s Denning Hall.  All are welcome.

Social-Emotional-Behavioral Well-Being of Students

The social-emotional-behavioral well-being of students remains a high priority at JFK.  Research reveals that social and emotional skills are critical for success at school, work, and in life.  These skills impact academic achievement, attendance, and attitudes and behaviors in school.  They impact job satisfaction, performance, and income.  They impact positive health behaviors, life satisfaction, and happiness.  The best part research is revealing is that these skills can also be learned, and students can grow and develop in these areas!

In grades 2 and 4, we use a screener called  SAEBRS to help identify areas upon which teachers and Mrs. Wolf should focus.  In grades 6-8, we will be teaming with ACT to use their Tessera assessment system and lessons.  More information will be sent home shortly for 6th-8th grade families.

Highlighted Upcoming Dates (See Website for Complete Calendar)

Nov 18:  7/8 Choir out of uniform.  JFK’s Toys for Tots drive begins

Nov 19:  Navigating Technology Together at St. Paul’s Denning Hall, 6:30 p.m.

Nov 22:  Pajama Day.  Butterbraid bread delivery to JFK

Nov 25:  JFK’s Toys for Tots drive ends

Nov 27:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC open.

Nov 28-29:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC closed.

Dec 21 – Jan 5:  Christmas Break.  Check the school calendar for dates when ECLC is closed.

OLV parish bulletin:  Click HERE or use the following link/url: https://www.olvjfk.com/olv/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/11/1032800051C-111719.pdf

The Secret to Shopping?

Last week, I commented that I wasn’t sure I was cut out for shopping any more.  I used to do more when our kids were younger as I did much of the grocery shopping each weekend and would usually go to HyVee one weekend and Walmart the next.  This week, I think I figured out why I didn’t mind these activities then, and why they aren’t enjoyable now.  Now, when I go, it’s usually by myself.  Then, when I went, it was always with one or two of my children.  It’s not the shopping itself that makes the difference; it’s the company you have in doing it!

Chad

Last Spring’s Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress Results Released

The results of the spring’s administration of the new Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress (ISASP) for grades 3-5 will be mailed this week.  Look for a three page parent letter and a two-sided report for each student who was in 3rd-5th grade last year.  They’ve been a long time coming!

Repeated Content Regarding Cell Phones and Social Media

Over the years, I have done several postings regarding cell phone usage and social media.  They are still relevant today with nearly every significant issue at school somehow tied into social media, either because it happens through social media or it is discussed and persists through comments on social media.  So far, the youngest students at JFK we have seen with issues regarding cell phone use have been eight years old.  Will you be ready?

With about 45% of 10 to 12 year olds in the US having not only their own smartphones but smartphones with a service plan (Nielsen report from February 2017), do you know what the kids are doing with their phones?

• What apps are they using?  Have you tried them yourself?
• What social media accounts are they using, how are they using them, and how often do you monitor their activity?  Just because a social media company says that no one under a certain age can have an account, doesn’t mean kids don’t fudge on their age.
• Are they “roasting” each other or doing “burns?”  How should they respond when they are the target of the burns?  You’d be shocked at the vulgar and vile language that students will use in the “anonymity” of the electronic age.
• What will they (and you) do when they receive inappropriate pictures taken off the Internet and from people they actually know?  The average age of first exposure to pornography is around eleven.  If eleven is average, what will they and you do if they are even younger?
• What shows are they watching in an era when family members are watching more and more shows independently on their own Internet connected devices than gathered around a television as a family?  What are the ratings on the shows they watch?  Are they just “Youtubing” random videos?
• What group chats are they in?  Who monitors them?  What will they (and you) do when the chat turns ugly?
• Do you know how to block things on phones or restrict settings?
• Do you know how to not only “delete” but then to empty the “trash” on phones?
• Are you modeling good social media use yourself?

The following is an interesting blog post on how cell phones and social media have changed the landscape.  Click here to read the story:  Comparing 2008 with 2018.

Issues of social media and technology cross all demographic and geographic groups.  St. Paul’s has recently started a parent group, NTT (Navigating Technology Together) that is now expanding to the other Catholic schools. This month’s topic is “pornography and our children” with Dr. Lyndsey Day.  NTT is an evening of awareness and discussion.  The November meeting is Tuesday, November 19th at 6:30 p.m. in St. Paul’s Denning Hall.  All are welcome.

Social-Emotional-Behavioral Well-Being of Students

The social-emotional-behavioral well-being of students remains a high priority at JFK.  Research reveals that social and emotional skills are critical for success at school, work, and in life.  These skills impact academic achievement, attendance, and attitudes and behaviors in school.  They impact job satisfaction, performance, and income.  They impact positive health behaviors, life satisfaction, and happiness.  The best part research is revealing is that these skills can also be learned, and students can grow and develop in these areas!

In grades 2 and 4, we use a screener called  SAEBRS to help identify areas upon which teachers and Mrs. Wolf should focus.  In grades 6-8, we will be teaming with ACT to use their Tessera assessment system and lessons.  More information will be sent home shortly for 6th-8th grade families.

Highlighted Upcoming Dates (See Website for Complete Calendar)

Nov 11:  Staff in-service.  No classes.  ECLC is open.  JFK staff members have an in-service on November 11th, Veterans’ Day, which allows us to take off on Good Friday in the spring.

Nov 14:  Home & School meeting

Nov 27:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC open.

Nov 28-29:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC closed.

Dec 21 – Jan 5:  Christmas Break.  Check the school calendar for dates when ECLC is closed.

HVAC Project Meetings Went Well

Fr. Jake and I discussed our updated HVAC plan for JFK with the parish finance council and the diocesan building commission two weeks ago.  Both meetings went well, and there was consensus regarding the scope of the work needed.  In the fall of 2016, a complete Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) plan for JFK was developed.  That plan acknowledged that our heating issues were twofold:  an aged boiler and pipes that were beyond their life expectancy.  The boiler, water heater, cafeteria and north stairwell fin tube/fan units, and controls were replaced in the summer of 2017.  Now, we’re ready for the next phase to deal with the pipes.

This next phase would install a variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system to the 1964 and 1987 parts of the school building.  (The 2011 sections of the building are up-to-date.)  The VRF system can not only provide heat, allowing the worn heating water pipes to be shut down, but it is also efficient in providing air conditioning!  When coupled with a new mechanical ventilation system, also included in this next phase, we can efficiently control humidity and filter and condition the air.  Also included in this phase would be a significant electrical upgrade to power everything.

Having modern HVAC systems would allow JFK to continue to lead the way in Catholic school education in Scott County.  Now, we just need to pay for it!

OLV parish bulletin:  Click HERE or use the following link/url: https://www.olvjfk.com/olv/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/11/1032800050C-111019.pdf

Not Cut Out for Shopping?

I don’t think I’m cut out for shopping any more.  I used to do more when our kids were younger as I did much of the grocery shopping each weekend and would usually go to HyVee one weekend and Walmart the next.  Now, I’m not sure I can handle shopping any more.  On Friday, I set off to run some errands.  I went to a “big box” store where it seemed like everything that I was looking for had been moved to other areas.  Or, at least, that’s what I’m assuming happened as I didn’t find most of what I was looking for, and I’m sure they still sell it.  I wandered from one aisle to the next and, oddly, even down some aisles that just dead ended.  No one seemed happy to be there either.  Kids were crying, parents were frustrated dealing with crying kids, and everyone seemed to be in everyone else’s way.  I don’t know about the employees because I don’t think I ever saw them as I even did self check-out!  My next stop was a store at the mall to look for some new pants.  Entering and exiting the store, people at least seemed happy as they all held doors for each other and greeted one another.  I did see employees at this store, and they did seem happy, although they probably shouldn’t have been using their two way radios to have personal conversations where they can be overheard in public.  Unfortunately, I didn’t find what I was looking for at this store either.  Rack upon rack of pants and not a single pair in my size!  By the time I was done running errands, I just had a headache to show for it.  Amazingly, however, when I went to Menard’s and Lowe’s on Saturday, I found exactly what I was looking for and even some extras!  I think I’ll just have to stick to going to Menard’s, Home Depot, and Lowe’s.  If they don’t have what I need, I must not need it!

Chad

HVAC Project Meetings Went Well

Fr. Jake and I discussed our updated HVAC plan for JFK with the parish finance council and the diocesan building commission last week.  Both meetings went well, and there was consensus regarding the scope of the work needed.  In the fall of 2016, a complete Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) plan for JFK was developed.  That plan acknowledged that our heating issues were twofold:  an aged boiler and pipes that were beyond their life expectancy.  The boiler, water heater, cafeteria and north stairwell fin tube/fan units, and controls were replaced in the summer of 2017.  Now, we’re ready for the next phase to deal with the pipes.

This next phase would install a variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system to the 1964 and 1987 parts of the school building.  (The 2011 sections of the building are up-to-date.)  The VRF system can not only provide heat, allowing the worn heating water pipes to be shut down, but it is also efficient in providing air conditioning!  When coupled with a new mechanical ventilation system, also included in this next phase, we can efficiently control humidity and filter and condition the air.  Also included in this phase would be a significant electrical upgrade to power everything.

Having modern HVAC systems would allow JFK to continue to lead the way in Catholic school education in Scott County.  Now, we just need to pay for it!

Last Spring’s Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress Results

The results of the spring’s administration of the new Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress (ISASP) for grades 3-5 should be released to schools this week.  The information is not allowed to be shared with parents until after November 11^th.  It should be a pretty straight-forward process, but, with all new data systems, it seems that there are always glitches.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parent-teacher conferences are this week.  With the meetings so brief (15 minutes or even possibly less in the drop-in upper grade conferences), here’s a short list of questions that you might consider asking:

• What are my child’s strengths and weaknesses?
• Is my child working up to his/her ability?  How can we support what’s going on in the classroom?
• How does my child get along with his/her classmates?

Don’t forget to share things about your child with the teachers too.  They want to learn more as well so they can be your partner.  “Specials” teachers (art, music, PE, band, foreign language) often don’t have many parents meet with them yet they may have some unique perspectives that they can share.  Specials teachers are in the cafeteria and have conferences on a drop-in basis.

Upcoming Dates

Nov 4:  Student Hunger Drive Out of Uniform.  Students who brought in 3 or more “cans” for the Student Hunger Drive can be out of uniform today.  The Out of Uniform Guidelines policy from our handbook still applies.

Nov 4:  Band/Music Boosters, 6:30, staff room

Nov 5:  Parent/teacher conferences, 5:30-8:30.  PS-5th grade are scheduled.  If you haven’t scheduled your child’s conference or received a time from the teacher, please contact your child’s teacher.  Conferences for grades 6-8 and specials are “walk in.”

Nov 7:  Parent/teacher conferences, 8-12:30 and 4-8.  No classes.  ECLC is open.

Nov 7:  Fundraiser pick up.

Nov 8:  No classes.  ECLC is open.

Nov 9:  Mock Trial at the Scott County Courthouse.  Good luck to our two teams!

Nov 11:  Staff in-service.  No classes.  ECLC is open.  JFK staff members have an in-service on November 11th, Veterans’ Day, which allows us to take off on Good Friday in the spring.

Nov 14:  Home & School meeting

Nov 27:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC open.

Nov 28-29:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC closed.

OLV parish bulletin:  Click HERE or use the following link/url: https://www.olvjfk.com/olv/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/11/1032800049C-110319.pdf

Don’t Forget to Vote on Tuesday

Tuesday is election day for mayor, city council, and public school board.  A well run city and school district benefit the entire community.

Chad

HVAC Project to Parish Finance Council and Diocesan Building Commission

Fr. Jake and I will be discussing our updated HVAC plan for JFK with the parish finance council and the diocesan building commission this week.  Our latest plan provides updates since the fall 2016 plan.  In the fall of 2016, a complete Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) plan for JFK was developed.  That plan acknowledged that our heating issues were twofold:  an aged boiler and pipes that were beyond their life expectancy.  The boiler, water heater, cafeteria and north stairwell fin tube/fan units, and controls were replaced in the summer of 2017.  Now, we’re ready to present phase two to deal with the pipes.

Phase two would install a variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system to the 1964 and 1987 parts of the school building.  (The 2011 sections of the building are up-to-date.)  The VRF system can not only provide heat, allowing the worn heating water pipes to be shut down, but it is also efficient in providing air conditioning!  When coupled with a new mechanical ventilation system, we can also efficiently control humidity.

Having modern HVAC systems would allow JFK to continue to lead the way in Catholic school education in Scott County.  Let’s pray that our meetings go well this week.

 

Busy Day on Friday

Friday was a busy day on campus.  Not only did we have the Fall Fest in the evening and multiple meetings for teachers during the day, we also had plenty of work done on campus.  Blacktop cracks were cleaned and resealed, and sewage pump wells were completely emptied and cleaned.  We also had all exterior door locks and multiple other locks re-keyed.  There’s a lot of work done on campus when students are not around.

Fall Fest Thank You

Thank you to our Home & School officers (Erin Pape, Cassandra Tatman, Kathy Knox, and Allison Arlt) and everyone else who helped with the Fall Fest.  We even had people help who haven’t had kids at JFK for years!

Report Cards

First quarter report cards should be sent via email early this week.  Just as our mid-quarters had a new look to them so too do the quarter report cards, particularly in grades 3-8.  The ratings under each core subject that were used at mid-quarter time are not on the quarterly report cards.  There is only the letter grade.  For more detailed information about how the letter grade was determined, you can always look at Progress Reports in JMC.

Specials (art, music/choir, PE and band) meet only twice per week when there’s a regular schedule and less often when we have adjusted schedules for other activities like assemblies.  For the report card, these specials are included with ratings for things like participation/effort, skills, understands concepts, and sportsmanship but do not have an overall grade.

Upcoming Dates

Oct 31:  Black/Orange Dress Day.  Students may be out of uniform if they are wearing black and/or orange.  The Out of Uniform Guidelines policy from our handbook, however, still applies.

Oct 31:  All Saints Day Vigil Mass, 6:00 p.m.

Nov 1:  All Saints Day Masses (7:00 a.m., 8:15 a.m., 7:00 p.m.).  All Saints Day is a holy day of obligation.  Following the 8:15 Mass, we will have our annual “parade of saints.”

Nov 2:  Bazaar, 8-4

Nov 3:  “Fall back:” Don’t forget to change your clocks

Nov 3:  Bazaar 9-1

Nov 4:  Student Hunger Drive Out of Uniform.  Students who brought in 3 or more “cans” for the Student Hunger Drive can be out of uniform today.  The Out of Uniform Guidelines policy from our handbook still applies.

Nov 5:  Parent/teacher conferences, 5:30-8:30.  PS-5th grade are scheduled.  If you haven’t scheduled your child’s through the Sign Up Genius link from your child’s homeroom teacher, please contact her.  Conferences for grades 6-8 and specials are “walk in.”

Nov 7:  Parent/teacher conferences, 8-12:30 and 4-8.  No classes.  ECLC is open.

Nov 7:  Fundraiser pick up.

Nov 8:  No classes.  ECLC is open.

Nov 11:  Staff in-service.  No classes.  ECLC is open.  JFK staff members have an in-service on November 11th, Veterans’ Day, which allows us to take off on Good Friday in the spring.

OLV parish bulletin:  Click HERE or use the following link/url: https://www.olvjfk.com/olv/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/10/1032800048C-102719.pdf

Butter Braid Bread Sale

Butter Braid Bread sales have begun.  The JFK Music Boosters/students are selling Butter Braid Bread.  This hand-braided pastry is a delicious addition to any holiday meal.  There are a variety of fillings, and each includes a frosting packet:  Apple, Cherry, Blueberry with Cream Cheese, Cinnamon, Raspberry, Strawberry with Cream Cheese, Caramel Rolls with Caramel Glaze.  These are sold individually for $14/package. Also returning this year is the Four Cheese & Herb Bread for $15/package.  The bread comes to you frozen. When you’re ready to use it, just let it rise 8 – 12 hours and bake about 20 minutes.  The sale ends November 4th with delivery on November 22nd.  If you have any questions or would like to order, please call or text: Melanie Rubemeyer at 563-505-1080.

Student Hunger Drive

JFK’s participation in the Student Hunger Drive concludes November 1st.  Canned/boxed food items are appreciated.  The homeroom with the most cans per student wins ice cream or pizza (homeroom choice).

Where Did We Go Right?

It seems that there’s hardly a week that goes by when one (or more) of our four children doesn’t thank Lynn and me for being such good parents.  It always surprises us.  Just as when one might ask the question “where did we go wrong?” Lynn and I always ask one another “where did we go right?”  We didn’t have the secret formula.  We don’t have “the book.”  We made plenty of mistakes, and there were probably plenty of times along the way when our kids didn’t think we were such great parents.  We didn’t do anything special.  We, like most everyone else, just tried to do our best with the knowledge and skills that we had at the time.  I think that’s really all that can be asked of any of us.  Just keep parenting and letting your kids know that, no matter what, you still love them.

Chad

Fall Fest Friday

The Fall Fest and Pumpkin Run is Friday from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.  The Run is at 5:30 in the back of the school.  The new “Slurp-A-Worm” contest is at 6:30.  Be the first to get all of the gummy worms out of the whipped cream using only your mouth.  Prizes awarded for both events according to grade level.

Food is for sale by Nombos Food Truck.  They specialize in mac and cheese varieties, hot dogs, and walking tacos.  After dinner (it’s a “rule!”), have a snow cone from the Kona Snow Cone Truck or decorate a caramel apple or cookie.

Volunteers are still needed.  Please direct questions regarding volunteering or other topics to jfk.homeandschool@outlook.com

Cracks/joints in the parking lot are being re-sealed on Friday , but the lot should be open again for evening activities.

Trunk or Treat Saturday

Come back Saturday for Trunk or Treat at 5:30 in the south part of our parking lot.

Oct 24 and 25

Oct 24:  End of the quarter.  Special dismissal at 12:40.  (I think the paper lunch menu said no school.  A corrected menu is online.)  No PM preschool classes.

Oct 25:  No classes.  ECLC open.  (Parking is on the street until the parking lot cracks are re-sealed.)  Fall Fest, 5:00.

Fire Prevention Month

October is Fire Prevention Month.  Not only did preschoolers through fifth graders have a presentation from the fire department and get an up close look at a fire truck, but we had two fire drills to practice new attendance taking methods.

OLV parish bulletin:  Click HERE or use the following link/url:  https://www.olvjfk.com/olv/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/10/October-20-2019.pdf

Butter Braid Bread Sale

Butter Braid Bread sales have begun.  The JFK Music Boosters/students are selling Butter Braid Bread.  This hand-braided pastry is a delicious addition to any holiday meal.  There are a variety of fillings, and each includes a frosting packet:  Apple, Cherry, Blueberry with Cream Cheese, Cinnamon, Raspberry, Strawberry
with Cream Cheese, Caramel Rolls with Caramel Glaze.  These are sold individually for $14/package. Also returning this year is the Four Cheese & Herb Bread for
$15/package.  The bread comes to you frozen. When you’re ready to use it, just let it rise 8 – 12 hours and bake about 20 minutes.  The sale ends November 4th with delivery on November 22nd.  If you have any questions or would like to order, please call or text: Melanie Rubemeyer at 563-505-1080.

Student Hunger Drive

JFK’s participation in the Student Hunger Drive begins on Oct 21st and concludes Nov 1st.  Canned/boxed food items are appreciated.

Flu Shots

Students registered to have a flu shot will receive them on Tuesday.  I have yet to receive mine.  Did you get your shot yet?

Blue Out Dress Day

Thursday, October 24th is Blue Out Dress Day in support of anti-bullying at JFK.  Students may be out of uniform, if they are wearing blue.  JFK’s Out of Uniform Guidelines in the parent and student handbook still apply.

Programming Rhythm

I’m out of the rhythm.  When I was a high school student or when I worked at Assumption, there was a definite rhythm to the week, particularly in the fall and winter.  Like it or not, everything seemed to revolve around “game day,” especially when the games were on Friday nights.  There was a feeling in the air that built from the beginning of the week and reached its pinnacle on game day.  Fine arts programs rhythms too.  Their rhythms were usually longer but culminated in the big play or the big concert held a couple of times per year.

When my own children were growing up, I felt the rhythm in  a different way.  With four children, it seemed that there were practices or games nearly every evening or day:  soccer, football, basketball, volleyball, spirit cheerleading, competitive cheerleading, softball, baseball, “fall ball,” golf, etc.  My kids played on school teams, and a few played on more competitive mixed teams.  Add in the mock trial, speech and debate tournaments, youth ministry activities, etc., and it seemed like there was always some kids’ programming.  We wanted our kids to be involved in something, and, many times, the events also aided some good family times.  Competing at Six Flags allowed for us to have a weekend together staying in a hotel, eating out, going on rides, and swimming in a hotel pool.  Tournaments in Dewitt allowed us to check out Dewitt Dairy (now Cups and Cones) for special ice cream treats.  We also, however, recognized that sometimes it was just too much, and we were all just stressed.  Six people in a small hotel room doesn’t give anyone his/her own space.  Sometimes the “divide and conquer” to make things work meant that we were not together as a family anyway.

It’s now been a few years since my family was in the thick of kids’ programming, and I feel a little out of the rhythm.  When the diocesan superintendent, Lee Morrison, asked if there was an elementary school principal willing to volunteer to discuss diocesan concerns about keeping Sunday for worship and family rest, I didn’t know whether to be involved or not.  On the one hand, I always want to be involved in something that may come back to affect us.  On the other hand, I’m not sure where I am on this issue myself and where younger families are.  What are your thoughts?

Chad

Holy Fire:  Seventh Graders Retreat in Chicago

Seventh graders from JFK and other middle school students from the Diocese of Davenport, the Midwest, and the nation will be gathering in Chicago for Holy Fire on Friday.  This remarkable experience combines powerful music, witness talks, Reconciliation, Holy Eucharist, and Adoration for young people to create, for many, a once-in-a-lifetime faith experience.  Please pray for our 7th graders on their faith journey.

First Reconciliation Parent/Child Meeting

Monday, October 14th:  6:00-7:30 p.m. in the cafeteria.

Fire Prevention Month

October is Fire Prevention Month.  Preschoolers through fifth graders will have a presentation from the fire department and get an up close look at a fire truck on Thursday.

Oct 24 and 25

Oct 24:  End of the quarter.  Special dismissal at 12:40.  (I think the paper lunch menu said no school.  A corrected menu is online.)  No PM preschool classes.

Oct 25:  No classes.  ECLC open.  Pumpkin Run and activities in evening.

Sign up now to help with the Fall Fest/Pumpkin Run on the 25th:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30e0f4baaab28a2fa7-fall

 

Welcome Alyssa Millard

We are pleased to welcome Alyssa Millard to the JFK staff.  Mrs. Millard is starting on October 14th as our evening custodian.

OLV parish bulletin:  Click HERE or use the following link/url:  https://www.olvjfk.com/olv/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/10/1032800046C-101319.pdf

Butter Braid Bread Sale

Butter Braid Bread sales have begun.  The JFK Music Boosters/students are selling Butter Braid Bread.  This hand-braided pastry is a delicious addition to any holiday meal.  There are a variety of fillings, and each includes a frosting packet:  Apple, Cherry, Blueberry with Cream Cheese, Cinnamon, Raspberry, Strawberry
with Cream Cheese, Caramel Rolls with Caramel Glaze.  These are sold individually for $14/package. Also returning this year is the Four Cheese & Herb Bread for
$15/package.  The bread comes to you frozen. When you’re ready to use it, just let it rise 8 – 12 hours and bake about 20 minutes.  The sale ends November 4th with delivery on November 22nd.  If you have any questions or would like to order, please call or text: Melanie Rubemeyer at 563-505-1080.

Fees Reduced?

The Catholic elementary school principals and their boards are discussing how we can reduce those back to school fees paid in late July or August.  Those fees can be from about $150 to more than $600 depending upon how many students a family has, the grade levels of the students, and the activities in which the students participate.  At JFK, families may be paying a lunchroom duty fee, technology fee, technology insurance fee, before/after school childcare registration fee, sports activities fee, and band fee.   While each of the schools has different fees and amounts, we believe we can eliminate or reduce most fees at each school by having a larger than normal tuition increase.  Blending fees into tuition would allow families to take advantage of the 10 month or 12 month tuition payment plan and avoid the August tuition bill AND fee bill due at the same time.

10-15 Seconds of the Iowa Wave is Not Enough

Last September, I wrote about having to hurry so I’d have my lawn work done in time to see the “Iowa Wave” at the end of the first quarter of the Iowa Hawkeye football game.  The “Iowa Wave” is when all the fans, players and coaches of both teams, referees, and everyone in the stadium turn to wave to those watching the game from the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.  It is a touching spectacle that reminds us that football is just a game, and other things are more important.  This fall, I have been very disappointed.  While the broadcasters describe what the Iowa Wave is and mention that it’s the best new tradition in football, the television stations break away for their full commercial break at the end of the quarter.  When the game comes back on, there’s only about 10 – 15 seconds of the Iowa Wave replayed.  It’s not the same!

Chad

Another Warm Start to the School Year

Students and staff at JFK experienced another warm start to the school year.  Prior to Oct 1^st, there were already 36 cooling days, making the start of the 2019-20 school year one of the warmest ever.  The number of cooling days is actually on an upward trend since JFK was built in the 1960s.  During the last three school years of the 1960’s, there were 46 cooling days.  By the last three years of the 2010s, there were 71.

In the fall of 2016, a complete Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) plan for JFK was developed.  The boiler replacement aspect of the plan was completed in the summer of 2017.  The remaining parts of the plan would address the heating issues associated with the hot water pipes, which are anywhere from five to 35 years past their life expectancy, ventilate the building using mechanical means, and allow for air conditioning.  The remaining parts of the HVAC plan are currently being reviewed and updated.  It sure would be nice to have them done before next school year!

Marching Bands at Assumption Thursday

The 7th/8th grade Catholic elementary bands will be marching with the Assumption band at Thursday’s football game at Brady Street.  Come out for an enjoyable evening!

School Pictures

October 8th:  Retakes and make-ups

Oct 24 and 25

Oct 24:  End of the quarter.  Special dismissal at 12:40.  (I think the paper lunch menu said no school.  A corrected menu is online.)  No PM preschool classes.

Oct 25:  No classes.  ECLC open.  Pumpkin Run and activities in evening.

Locals Love Us – Do You?

Vote for JFK on LocalsLoveUs.com.  Preschool, childcare, and K-8 Private school categories.

Thank You, Jeff Edens

Jeff Edens will be concluding his second term as evening custodian with us on Friday.  We have been blessed with about a year and a half of his service this time around.  Not only is Jeff a good employee who takes pride in his work, but he’s an even better person, and we’re glad to have had him in our lives at JFK.

OLV parish bulletin:  Click HERE or use the following link/url:  https://www.olvjfk.com/olv/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/10/October-6-2019.pdf

Read about the OLV Foundation reaching its $1,000,000 goal!  With a $1,000,000 endowment, the foundation is able to donate nearly $50,000 per year to OLV and JFK.

The Unwritten Rules

Last weekend, as one of my daughters was getting ready for bed, she spotted a big spider near the bed in a room that she was sharing with her sister.  She came downstairs and told us about it.  Others of us then went upstairs to try to find the spider but were unsuccessful.  That event has set off a little back and forth about “unwritten rules:”

• Large spiders near beds must be killed.
• It’s OK if you don’t kill it yourself, but you cannot let it out of your sight, and you must call out to have someone else come kill it.

During and after this event, the following types of phrases seemed very common:  “Everyone knows these rules.  How do you not know the spider rules?”  I fed the sisterly back and forth again on Friday when I took a picture of the hallway at school with all of the paper spiders made by students on the walls and sent it to the two girls.  That reignited the comments:  “It’s OK not to kill paper spiders!”  Apparently, there are just some rules that you’re supposed to know.

The older I’ve become, the more lenient I’ve become with “the rules.”  I remember that when my kids were younger, we didn’t go down the back-to-school aisle in the store until August, the Halloween aisle until October, and the Christmas aisle until Thanksgiving.  Everything needed its own special time; let’s not rush our lives away.  Now, I’m a little more flexible.  When Caitlin was bringing her roommate home for Thanksgiving and really wanted to show her how beautiful the house would look when we decorated for Christmas, what’s a week earlier?

“No desert unless you finish your supper” was another one of those rules.  Now, once in a while, Whitey’s is supper.  Perhaps it even tastes better because we all know that we’re really “breaking the rules.”

I hope you have your own special sets of family rules and can even enjoy breaking them once in a while!

 

Chad