Author: csteimle

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

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

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

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

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

Son     Daughter     Dad     Daughter     Mom     Daughter

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

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

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

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

5th Grade Flag Essay — Clean Sweep

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

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

Lego League

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

MobyMax Information

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

Special Dates

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

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

Bible Study for Middle School Youth

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

Need the Bulletin?

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

Use Victory Vouchers for Your Holiday Shopping

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

Blessing Bags Collection Begins

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

Coats for Kids and Special Dress Day

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

Chad

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

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

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

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

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

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

Advent Is a Great Time to Recommit to Mass Attendance

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

MobyMax Information

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

November & December Special Dates

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

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

Middle School Youth Night

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

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

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

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

Bible Study for Middle School Youth

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

Wellness Policy Implementation Review

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

Need the Bulletin?

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

Use Victory Vouchers for Your Holiday Shopping

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

Blessing Bags Collection Begins

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

Vision 2020 Video Contest

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

Chad

Advent Is a Great Time to Recommit to Mass Attendance

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

JFK Cost Per Pupil

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

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

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

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

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

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

MobyMax Information Went Home Last Week

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

November & December Special Dates

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

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

Middle School Youth Night

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

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

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

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

Bible Study for Middle School Youth

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

Wellness Policy Implementation Review

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

Need the Bulletin?

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

Assumption Knight Players Present Miss Nelson is Missing!

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

Use Victory Vouchers for Your Holiday Shopping

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

Blessing Bags Collection Begins

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

Chad

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

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

MobyMax Information Coming Later this Week

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

November & December Special Dates

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

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

Mock Trial Individual Recognition

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

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

Need the Bulletin?

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

Fictional Account About Social Media and Children

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

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

Assumption Knight Players Present Miss Nelson is Missing!

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

Spiritwear Holiday Sale & Used Uniform Sale

Two options:

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

Use Victory Vouchers for Your Holiday Shopping

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

What Does Science Teaching Look Like?

Teaching science includes a wide range of activities:

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

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

Chad

Nothing But Compliments

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

November & December Special Dates

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

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

Mock Trial

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

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

Scouting Report

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

Need the Bulletin?

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

Do You Have a Perfectionist Teen?

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

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

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

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

Assumption Knight Players Present Miss Nelson is Missing!

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

Spiritwear Holiday Sale & Used Uniform Sale

Two options:

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

Use Victory Vouchers for Your Holiday Shopping

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

Enjoy the Thanksgiving Break

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

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

I wish you and your family the best this Thanksgiving.

Chad

November & December Special Dates

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

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

Mock Trial

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

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

Magazine Sale — Non-Magazine Item Pick Up

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

Home & School Meeting on Thursday

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

Need the Bulletin?

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

Do You Have a Perfectionist Teen?

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

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

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

Annual Diocesan Appeal — Significant Progress Made

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

Annual Progress Report for 2017-18  

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

Chad

Parade of Saints Photo

The symbolism of our saints was remarkable.

Special Schedules Coming Up

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

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

ECLC is in session on all of these days.

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

Sixth Grade Band Festival

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

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

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

Are You Registered to Receive Text Messages from JFK?

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

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

Portable Reptile Egg Incubator?

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

Annual Diocesan Appeal

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

Annual Progress Report for 2017-18  

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

Chad

Holy Day Masses

The All Saints Day Vigil Mass is October 31st at 6:00 p.m.  Masses on the holy day on November 1st are at 7:00 and 8:15 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.  After the 8:15 Mass, we will have the JFK traditional parade of saints.

Special Schedules Coming Up

We have PS-8th grade parent/teacher conferences in the evening on November 6th and during the day on November 8th.  There are no PS-8th grade classes on November 8th and 9th.  (Classes are normal on November 6th.)  Links to sign up for parent/teacher conference times for families with multiple children were sent last week.  On Monday, links will be sent to other families.  We stagger the release so that those with multiple children can try and schedule their conferences in close proximity to one another.

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

ECLC is in session on all of these days.

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

Special Dress Day

October 30th is black and orange dress day.  Students can be out of uniform if they are wearing black and/or orange.  Students’ attire must still follow the out-of-uniform dress guidelines.

Sixth Grade Band Festival

Sixth grade students from the four Catholic elementary schools will come together for a music festival on Tuesday.  After a day of rehearsals and sectional workshops, students will unite for an evening concert in Assumption’s auditorium at 7:00 p.m.

Are You Registered to Receive Text Messages from JFK?

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

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

Annual Diocesan Appeal

The Annual Diocesan Appeal (ADA) is underway.  The goal provided to us by the diocese went up $9,000, a reflection of our overall parish income having increased.  The ADA is a “mandated goal.”  If we do not meet the ADA goal through the campaign, we would have to cut expenses in order to pay the shortage.  Please support OLV/JFK and the Diocese of Davenport.

Annual Progress Report for 2017-18  

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

Thanks to Our Volunteers

Thank you to our many volunteers, our Home & School officers, and H & S president Andrea Schuster for running the Family Fall Fest.  There were some great new ideas this year, and last minute adjustments were made seamlessly when the bounce house was not delivered.

Chad

Special Schedules Coming Up

There are no classes for PS-8th grade students on October 22nd.  It is a full day in-service.  Teachers of science at JFK will receive training from a representative of Houghton-Mifflin-Harcourt, the publishing company of our new science materials.  Other teachers will be involved in a variety of trainings and meetings.

October 26th is the end of the first quarter and has a two hour early dismissal.  K-8 classes will be dismissed at 12:40 with bus transportation.  There are no afternoon preschool classes this day.

We have PS-8th grade parent/teacher conferences in the evening on November 6th and during the day on November 8th.  There are no PS-8th grade classes on November 8th and 9th.  (Classes are normal on November 6th.)  Links to sign up for parent/teacher conference times will be emailed soon.

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

ECLC is in session on all of these days.

Are You Registered to Receive Text Messages from JFK?

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

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

Praise for 7th Graders

We heard over and over again from JA representatives at Finance Park last week that our 7th graders were so well-mannered, well-behaved, and prepared.  Nice job, 7th grade!  We’d like to thank the volunteers who made this learning experience possible.

Fire Prevention Month

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

Seventh Graders to Holy Fire 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.  For more information, I’d encourage you to watch the promotional video below and/or the INFORMATIONAL VIDEO from last year’s event.  Please pray for our 7th graders on their faith journey.

Annual Diocesan Appeal

The Annual Diocesan Appeal (ADA) is underway.  The goal provided to us by the diocese went up $9,000, a reflection of our overall parish income having increased.  The ADA is a “mandated goal.”  If we do not meet the ADA goal through the campaign, we would have to cut expenses in order to pay the shortage.  Please support OLV/JFK and the Diocese of Davenport.

Annual Progress Report for 2017-18  

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

Diocesan Vision 2020

As part of his initiative “Vision 20/20: From Pentecost to Pentecost,” Bishop Zinkula asks each parish to hold a study session and a listening session regarding evangelization based upon Pope Francis’ Joy of the Gospel.  OLV’s study session was Sunday.  The listening session will be led by a diocesan representative, with the parish responses recorded and presented to the bishop.  The listening session is October 28th from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. in the Gathering Space.  All are welcome to attend the listening session, even if you were not able to attend the study session.

Home & School News

• Skate Night is Monday, October 22nd.  Fall costumes are the theme, but they also need to be skate safe — no flowing capes, for example.
• Family Fall Fest and Trunk or Treat is this Saturday.  These are great opportunities to build community, interact with other families, and enjoy some family time.  In order to have these events for our community, all community members are needed to help.  Sign up for a job and shift:   CLICK HERE  Last minute adjustments to planned activities will have to be made if there are not enough volunteers.

Chad

Mass in the Gym

With it seemingly raining non-stop these days, we even had to make a decision about Mass last Wednesday.  It was raining way too hard to get 400 students and staff into the church without everyone being soaked.  Fr. and I decided to make a last minute change and have Mass in the school gym.

It was an awesome experience, and the the students were incredibly respectful of converting our gym to worship space.  I don’t know if we’d be able to make this type of last minute change every time as there was a lot of scrambling to pull it off, and it disrupts everyone’s schedule, but it sure was worth it on Wednesday.

Are You Registered to Receive Text Messages from JFK?

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

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

Other Action in the Gym

Mass isn’t the only thing we can do well in our gym.  We just finished the Catholic League girls’ basketball season.  The 8th grade and 6th grade teams were champions.  Seventh grade, with only four players, was mighty!  It’s on to volleyball season now!

Portable Reptile Egg Incubator?

Designing a portable reptile egg incubator is one of the middle school chemistry activities this month.  Do you know how much calcium chloride and baking soda to use to get the ideal temperature for snake eggs?  Lizard eggs?

Special Schedules Coming Up

There are no classes for PS-8th grade students on October 22nd.  It is a full day in-service.  Teachers of science at JFK will receive training from a representative of Houghton-Mifflin-Harcourt, the publishing company of our new science materials.  Other teachers will be involved in a variety of trainings and meetings.

October 26th is the end of the first quarter and has a two hour early dismissal.  K-8 classes will be dismissed at 12:40 with bus transportation.  There are no afternoon preschool classes this day.

We have PS-8th grade parent/teacher conferences in the evening on November 6th and during the day on November 8th.  There are no PS-8th grade classes on November 8th and 9th.  (Classes are normal on November 6th.)

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

ECLC is in session on all of these days.

Junior Achievement at Every Grade

We are most grateful to our JA volunteers who come to JFK in every grade to help students learn about their community and finances.  This week our 7th graders will go downtown to JA’s facility for a household budgeting activity called Finance Park.  We’d like to thank the many volunteers who make this learning experience possible.

Band’s Butter Braid Bread Sales

The JFK band students are selling Butter Braid Bread.  This hand-braided pastry is a delicious addition to any holiday meal.  The Butter Braid Bread has the following variety of fillings available (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.

Band students are taking orders October 8^th-31^st.  The bread will be delivered to the school on Friday, November 16th.  The students will deliver the bread to your home in time for your holiday meals.  If you have any questions or would like to order, please call or text:  Melanie Rubemeyer @ 563-505-1080.  The JFK Band appreciates your support.

How Much Fundraising Is There?

JFK’s fundraising is actually quite low when compared to many of our other Catholic schools.  Taking into account the Gala, 8th grade fundraising for their Chicago trip, Home & School, Band Boosters, Drama, and Student Council, we have about $112,000 in revenue from fundraising.  That figure represents less than 5% of our annual budget.  On a per pupil basis, however, it is about $315 per K-8 student.  Thank goodness fundraising allows us to generate revenue from sources other than tuition paying families!

Cost per Pupil

With fundraising bringing in about $315 per pupil and tuition for OLV participating members being $3,370 for the first child, is the per pupil cost of education at JFK about $3,700?  Not even close.  Our K-8 per pupil cost this year is about $5,516.  Approximately $1,671 per child comes from envelope giving at OLV.  With the parish paying for nearly 30% of a student’s education, there is no doubt why parishioners expect JFK students and their families to be in the pews and fully participating in the life of the parish.

Delinquent Tuition

Please help us by making sure your tuition is paid when due, according to your payment plan.  At the beginning of October, JFK’s late tuition, adjusted to match payment plans selected, was about 10%.  We have financial obligations, including payroll, that must be met on a timely basis as well.

Annual Diocesan Appeal

The Annual Diocesan Appeal (ADA) is underway.  The goal provided to us by the diocese went up $9,000, a reflection of our overall parish income having increased.  The ADA is a “mandated goal.”  If we do not meet the ADA goal through the campaign, we would have to cut expenses in order to pay the shortage.  Please support OLV/JFK and the Diocese of Davenport.

Lisa Project:  October 20 and 21st

The OLV Wellness Committee and Health Ministry Team are working with Scott County Kids to bring the Lisa Project to our church community on October 20th and 21st.   This 10-minute, self-guided audio tour educates about child abuse.  It will be available in the Gathering Space Meeting Room on October 20th from noon – 6 p.m. and on October 21st from 7:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  You could make
the difference in a child’s life by being better educated about recognizing the signs of abuse.  The state of California requires all freshmen to attend this program.  Trained staff from the Lisa Project will be on hand to answer questions.  Because the display is rated PG-13, there will be an area set aside for younger children to be entertained while their parents take the tour.

Did You Miss the Parish Directory?

Photos for new parishioners, anyone not included in the last directory and anyone who wants to have his/her household’s photo retaken will be scheduled for the Gathering Space during October.  Photo sessions are October 25th from 2:00 – 9:00 p.m. and October 26th from 2:00 – 9:00 p.m.  Photos will be taken and viewed the same day.  You will receive a free 8 x 10 and have the option to purchase
additional portraits.  If you do not wish to have your photo taken, you can provide us with a photo of you and your family.  (There is a $10 charge for processing a photo submitted this way for the directory.)  You can email your photo to:  lj_barnett1605@q.com.  If the submitted photo is professionally taken, a release from the original photographer is also needed.  Everyone will receive a free directory in 2019.

Annual Progress Report for 2017-18  

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

Diocesan Vision 2020

As part of his initiative “Vision 20/20: From Pentecost to Pentecost,” Bishop Zinkula asks each parish to hold a study session and a listening session regarding evangelization based upon Pope Francis’ Joy of the Gospel.  OLV’s study session is October 21st from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. in the Gathering Space.  The listening session will be led by a diocesan representative, with the parish responses recorded and presented to the bishop.  The listening session is October 28th from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. in the Gathering Space.  All are welcome to attend one or both sessions.

Save STOs from IRS Proposed Regulation — Action Alert from Iowa ACE

The Internal Revenue Service recently proposed new regulations that would limit the federal deductibility of individual donations to School Tuition Organizations (STOs) in Iowa.  Tell our federal legislators to leave it alone.

Donors to the STO program currently receive a 65% state income tax credit and can deduct the entire amount of that donation on their Federal return. STOs use these donations to give out tuition grants to qualifying families, allowing them to afford tuition at one of Iowa’s nonpublic schools. Under the proposed IRS regulation, donors would only be able to deduct 35% of their donation on their Federal return. This proposed rule would greatly decrease the incentive for STO donors. If donations to STOs go down, the ability of STOs to help families will also go down.

Nearly 11,000 students across Iowa receive financial assistance through the STO program each year. Nationwide, STOs serve more than 250,000 students in 18 states. If this regulation goes into effect, students served by STO programs will suffer.

We are asking that School Tuition Organizations be exempted from the proposed IRS rule, as it will reduce donations to STOs and financial assistance.

Help us voice our objection to this rule by sending a message to Senators Grassley and Ernst as well as your member of the U.S. House, asking them to assist us in this effort. We encourage you to personalize this message – share your perspective on STOs and all they do to provide a choice for Iowa parents and children. Please send this message soon!

Thank you for taking time to stand up for Iowa families – we appreciate your joining in our efforts.

Sincerely,
Iowa Advocates for Choice in Education

ACT NOW – Click here to contact your legislators!

Home & School News

• Family Fall Fest (on Oct. 27) packets went out recently.  Several volunteers are still needed.  There was a form in the packet, but here’s also a link for the online signup:  CLICK HERE
  • Did you catch that we are combining Trunk or Treat with some of the activities of the former Pumpkin Run evening?
• Next Skate Night is Monday, Oct. 22

Chad