Author: csteimle

I’m So Blessed!

Catholic Schools Week activities are an incredible undertaking. We’re so blessed to have teachers, staff, Home & School leaders, and parent volunteers plan and contribute to making CSW such a good experience for all.

Gala

Weather Communications

 Communications about weather closings will be via email and posted on our website and Facebook accounts. We generally follow the decisions made by the Davenport Community School District due to busing. Currently, most SCCS are without SchoolMessenger. The Diocese of Davenport is working to restore SchoolMessenger, which will give us texting and robocall options again. JFK does not use the television scrollers due to the inaccuracy of the information reported there over the years.

ESA Funding for 2nd Semester

ESA funding for 2nd semester is now available. The process to initiate funding is similar to 1^st semester.

• School action:
  • SCCS will review tuition and fees for all current students, and adjust the amount to be charged for 2^nd semester, if necessary.
  • In some cases, SCCS may add band, algebra, and/or sport fees, as well as PSAT and/or AP test fees. (These options were not available 1^st semester.)
• Parent/Guardian action:
  • Odyssey will automatically notify you that an invoice is available to review
  • Review the invoice at Odyssey. If you have questions, please contact Bobbie Goetsch at (StudentAccounts@sccsiowa.org or 563-326-5313 ext 282).  Note the new email address.
  • To maintain ESA eligibility, approve payment through Odyssey https://iowa.withodyssey.com/ as soon as possible. Our goal is to have 100% of our families accept 2^nd semester tuition and fees by January 10th. 

SCCS/SAU Career Fair

At the Scott County Catholic Schools and St. Ambrose University 8th grade career fair, small groups of 8th graders interact with presenters throughout the whole day. Students can really learn something about a career or field of study.  We also have our students talk with college students, and the day concludes with Mass. Outside of athletics, it is the largest cooperative venture of SCCS and SAU. The career fair is March 1st. If you would like to be a presenter or know someone we should contact, please reach out to Mrs. Wolf, emma.wolf@olvjfkmail.com.

Talent Show

The talent show during Catholic Schools Week is just a few weeks away!  Individual and small group acts are encouraged. I still remember my son doing a magic act and playing the guitar, and my daughters singing. We still have the girls’ duet on video! It’s on VHS-C though so I doubt anyone will ever watch it, and the girls are safe from future embarrassment!

Catholic Schools Week Planning is Underway

Some tentative plans are below, and more activities and/or details will be added as they become solidified:

Saturday, January 27:

• Mass at 4:30.  Let’s see a wave of JFK spirit wear and/or green and white!
• Home & School sponsored Fun Night.  Meal also available in the parish center.

Monday, January 29:

• Dodgeball for Diapers fundraiser for grades 3-8
  • Details and permission slip come from Mrs. Tilkens
• Arts and crafts activities for K-2
• Athletic and/or Favorite Team Dress Day/Out of Uniform

Tuesday, January 31:

• Talent Show
  • Begins at 12:00 with the kindergarten class act, and K-8 individual and small group acts follow
  • Information has been sent separately before Christmas break regarding the talent show.
  • Guests are welcome, but we cannot be more particular about the time of performers.  It all depends upon how many acts there are, how long each act actually is, etc.
• Pajama Day
• Students may also bring a pillow to sit upon

Wednesday, January 31:

• All School Mass with Individual Blessings of Throats
• Spirit Wear Tops or green/white tops.  Bottoms may be out of uniform.
• Bring an Adult Guest to Lunch Day
  • 10:40-11:10     Kindergarten
  • 11:10-11:40     Grades 3 and 4
  • 11:40-12:10     Grades 1 and 2
  • 12:10-12:40     Grades 5 and 6
  • 12:40-1:10       Grades 7 and 8
  • Several after lunch activities for guests and students will be available
  • Students’ adult guests may sign their students out from school for the rest of the day, if desired
  • Details about signing up for lunch will be distributed. Sign-up in advance is needed to determine food ordering. Adults can prepay or have their meals charged to their child’s account. Adult meals receive no government subsidy, and cost $4.84 per meal.

Thursday, February 1:

• Scott County Catholic Schools Grades 2-12 Mass at Assumption
• Take Pride in Your Uniform Dress Day (Everyone is in dress code.  This applies to upper grade students as well even if they have PE today)
• Drop Everything and Read (DEAR)
  • Students can bring a pillow and a snack for themselves as well
• Science fair showcase for grades 7/8

Friday, February 2:

• 8th Grade vs. Staff Volleyball Games with grades 6-7 cheering them on
• K-2 Special movie or other activity
• 3-5 Special movie, other activity, or cheer at the volleyball games
• Wacky Tacky Out of Uniform Day
• GALA!

Sunday, February 4:

• H & S sponsored event at SnowStar

End of 2nd Quarter on Friday

The end of the 2nd quarter is fast approaching on Friday. Please keep checking your students’ grades in PowerSchool. Usually students have lower grades than desired because work is missing. When I did a grade check over the  break, for example, nearly 1/3 of the 6th-8th graders currently had a D, F, or Beginning for a 2nd quarter grade in some subject. If you need help accessing PowerSchool as a parent, please reach out to emma.wolf@olvjfkmail.com.

Position at JFK

JFK is looking to fill a full-time, school year only childcare, preschool, and recess supervisory position.  Please forward your resume to Chad Steimle at chad.steimle@olvjfkmail.com.

Calendar Highlights

Here are just a few items highlighted from the detailed online school calendar:

• Jan 8:  Music Boosters. Middle School Youth Night.
• Jan 9:  Kids Heart Challenge Assembly
• Jan 12:  End of the 2nd quarter.  2 Hr Early Dismissal (12:40).  No afternoon preschool classes.  Music Boosters Trivia Night
• Jan 15:  Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.  No classes.  ECLC open
• Jan 16:  3rd quarter begins. SEICDA Youth Honor Choir
• Jan 17: NED show assembly. 8th Grade Parent Meeting at AHS.
• Jan 18:  Jump for JFK at The Fun Station in Eldridge
• Jan 20: Parishioner Appreciation Dinner

I’m So Blessed!

My wife and our four children and their significant others were able to spend some time together this past weekend. Rather than our usual gift-giving at Christmas, we rented a house in the Galena area for a long weekend. While some of the activities we had planned did not take place due to the lack of snow (although weather did impact people’s traveling multiple times), we watched plenty of football, played pool and creative “reindeer games,” and just enjoyed each others’ company. Time for family and relaxation is always good!

I wasn’t quite sure what to expect with this house rental as it was my first experience. I think I’m “behind the times” on some things in comparison to my kids. While I was trying to find football on cable/satellite, for example, my kids were pointing out that “everything” is streamed these days. I later learned how to fill my cup with ice and water from the front of a refrigerator and watched my daughter load a dishwasher. I was going to do laundry, but I think my kids would have made fun of me for going to the creek to beat my clothes against the rocks!

On the last day we were all together, I learned just how smart my daughters’ significant others are. While my son and I teasingly made fun of the Taylor Swift Eras Tour video that was blasting through the house, my daughters’ husbands/boyfriends kept their mouths shut. They are so smart. There is definitely hope for them!

ESA Funding for 2nd Semester

ESA funding for 2nd semester is now available. The process to initiate funding is similar to 1^st semester.

• School action:
  • SCCS will review tuition and fees for all current students, and adjust the amount to be charged for 2^nd semester, if necessary.
  • In some cases, SCCS may add band, algebra, and/or sport fees, as well as PSAT and/or AP test fees. (These options were not available 1^st semester.)
• Parent/Guardian action:
  • Odyssey will automatically notify you that an invoice is available to review
  • Review the invoice at Odyssey. If you have questions, please contact Bobbie Goetsch at (studentaccounts@sccsiowa.com or 563-326-5313 ext 282)
  • To maintain ESA eligibility, approve payment through Odyssey https://iowa.withodyssey.com/ as soon as possible. Our goal is to have 100% of our families accept 2^nd semester tuition and fees by January 10th. 

SCCS/SAU Career Fair

At the Scott County Catholic Schools and St. Ambrose University 8th grade career fair, small groups of 8th graders interact with presenters throughout the whole day. Students can really learn something about a career or field of study.  We also have our students talk with college students, and the day concludes with Mass. Outside of athletics, it is the largest cooperative venture of SCCS and SAU. The career fair is March 1st. If you would like to be a presenter or know someone we should contact, please reach out to Mrs. Wolf, emma.wolf@olvjfkmail.com.

Talent Show

The talent show during Catholic Schools Week is just a few weeks away!  Individual and small group acts are encouraged. I still remember my son doing a magic act and playing the guitar, and my daughters singing. We still have the girls’ duet on video! It’s on VHS-C though so I doubt anyone will ever watch it, and the girls are safe from future embarrassment!

Catholic Schools Week Planning is Underway

Some tentative plans are below, and more activities and/or details will be added as they become solidified:

Saturday, January 27:

• Mass at 4:30.  Let’s see a wave of JFK spirit wear and/or green and white!
• Home & School sponsored Fun Night

Monday, January 29:

• Dodgeball for Diapers fundraiser for grades 3-8
  • Details and permission slip come from Mrs. Tilkens
• Arts and crafts activities for K-2
• Athletic and/or Favorite Team Dress Day/Out of Uniform

Tuesday, January 31:

• Talent Show
  • Begins at 12:00 with the kindergarten class act, and K-8 individual and small group acts follow
  • Information has been sent separately before Christmas break regarding the talent show.
  • Guests are welcome, but we cannot be more particular about the time of performers.  It all depends upon how many acts there are, how long each act actually is, etc.
• Pajama Day
• Students may also bring a pillow to sit upon

Wednesday, January 31:

• All School Mass with Individual Blessings of Throats
• Spirit Wear Tops or green/white tops.  Bottoms may be out of uniform.
• Bring an Adult Guest to Lunch Day
  • 10:40-11:10     Kindergarten
  • 11:10-11:40     Grades 3 and 4
  • 11:40-12:10     Grades 1 and 2
  • 12:10-12:40     Grades 5 and 6
  • 12:40-1:10       Grades 7 and 8
  • Several after lunch activities for guests and students will be available
  • Students’ adult guests may sign their students out from school for the rest of the day, if desired
  • Details about signing up for lunch will be distributed. Sign-up in advance is needed to determine food ordering. Adults can prepay or have their meals charged to their child’s account. Adult meals receive no government subsidy, and costs $4.84 per meal.

Thursday, February 1:

• Scott County Catholic Schools Grades 2-12 Mass at Assumption
• Take Pride in Your Uniform Dress Day (Everyone is in dress code.  This applies to upper grade students as well even if they have PE today)
• Drop Everything and Read (DEAR)
  • Students can bring a pillow and a snack for themselves as well
• Science fair showcase for grades 7/8

Friday, February 2:

• 8th Grade vs. Staff Volleyball Games with grades 6-7 cheering them on
• K-2 Special movie or other activity
• 3-5 Special movie, other activity, or cheer at the volleyball games
• Wacky Tacky Out of Uniform Day
• GALA!

End of 2nd Quarter Fast Approaching

The end of the 2nd quarter is fast approaching on January 12th. Please keep checking your students’ grades in PowerSchool. Usually students have lower grades than desired because work is missing. When I did a grade check over the  break, for example, nearly 1/3 of the 6th-8th graders currently had a D, F, or Beginning for a 2nd quarter grade in some subject. If you need help accessing PowerSchool as a parent, please reach out to dianne.siefers@olvjfkmail.com.

Position at JFK

JFK is looking to fill a full-time, school year only childcare, preschool, and recess supervisory position.  Please forward your resume to Chad Steimle at chad.steimle@olvjfkmail.com.

Calendar Highlights

Here are just a few items highlighted from the detailed online school calendar:

• Jan 1:  School and ECLC Closed
• Jan 2:  No classes – in-service.  ECLC Open
• Jan 3:  Classes resume
• Jan 8:  Music Boosters
• Jan 9:  Kids Heart Challenge Assembly
• Jan 12:  End of the 2nd quarter.  2 Hr Early Dismissal (12:40).  No afternoon preschool classes.  Music Boosters Trivia Night
• Jan 15:  Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.  No classes.  ECLC open
• Jan 16:  3rd quarter begins
• Jan 18:  Jump for JFK at The Fun Station in Eldridge

I’m So Blessed!

This week is the K-2 Christmas concert in the church. The evening performance is on Tuesday.  The performance for the school is after our 7:40 school Mass on Wednesday. It’s just not Christmas without K-2 singing in the church.

Speaking of that concert, the doors to the church will be opened right around 5:45 p.m. We have found over the years that when everyone’s there too far ahead of time, there’s just chaos with anticipation, little siblings playing in the baptismal font, etc. We’ll get everyone in and be able to start almost right away. Please be careful upon entering; we don’t want anyone getting hurt rushing to get the “best seat.”

Civic Oration Final Round Winners

The final round of the speech contest portion of civic oration was last Monday.  Congratulations to the following students in each division:

7th/8th Grade Division:

1st Place:  Caitlyn C (7).   2nd Place:  Natalie S (8)   3rd Place:  Miranda G (8)

5th/6th Grade Division:

1st Place:  William C (6)   2nd Place:  Paloma S (6)   3rd Place: Mia V (5)

5th Grade Flag Essay Winners

The fifth graders also began the year with another writing contest about the American flag.  The following are the winners for the flag essay contest:  1st Place:  Levi F     2nd Place:  Liam S     3rd Place:  Addelyn A

ESA Funding for 2nd Semester

ESA funding for 2nd semester is now available. The process to initiate funding is similar to 1^st semester.

• School action:
• • SCCS will review tuition and fees for all current students, and adjust the amount to be charged for 2^nd semester, if necessary.
  • In some cases, SCCS may add band, algebra, and/or sport fees, as well as PSAT and/or AP test fees. (These options were not available 1^st semester.)
• Parent/Guardian action:
  • Odyssey will automatically notify you that an invoice is available to review
  • Review the invoice at Odyssey. If you have questions, please contact Bobbie Goetsch at (studentaccounts@sccsiowa.com or 563-326-5313 ext 282)
  • To maintain ESA eligibility, approve payment through Odyssey https://iowa.withodyssey.com/ as soon as possible. Our goal is to have 100% of our families accept 2^nd semester tuition and fees by January 10th. 

JA Career Fair vs. SCCS/SAU Career Fair

Emma Wolf and I visited the Junior Achievement career fair for middle schoolers across the river. The Bend Expo Center is a great site, and it is large enough that Deere could have an excavator, and the police could have a tactical vehicle indoors.  There were probably 60-75 organizations represented. What it lacked, however, was interaction with students about careers. Students were ushered through five “zones” every 20 minutes or so  With a total time of about 80 minutes on site, students, in groups of about ten or more, would have had less than two minutes at each station. I still prefer the Scott County Catholic Schools and St. Ambrose University 8th Grade Career Fair.

At our career fair, small groups of 8th graders interact with presenters throughout the whole day. Students can really learn something about a career or field of study.  We also have our students talk with college students, and the day concludes with Mass. Outside of athletics, it is the largest cooperative venture of SCCS and SAU. Our career fair is March 1st. If you would like to be a presenter or know someone we should contact, please reach out to Mrs. Wolf, emma.wolf@olvjfkmail.com.

Talent Show

It’s time to start thinking about the Catholic Schools Week talent show.  Individual and small group acts are encouraged. I still remember my son doing a magic act and playing the guitar, and my daughters singing. We still have the girls’ duet on video!

Position at JFK

JFK is looking to fill a full-time, school year only childcare, preschool, and recess supervisory position.  Please forward your resume to Chad Steimle at chad.steimle@olvjfkmail.com.

Academics Come First

Regardless of how busy we are, academics still need to come first in schools.  Please make sure you and your students are staying on top of the school work. If you need help checking your students’ grades in PowerSchool or don’t have your account set up yet, please email dianne.siefers@olvjfkmail.com.

Mississippi Valley Student Tuition Organization Donations Welcome

Tax advantages still exist for donations to Student Tuition Organizations, and, even with ESAs helping even more students next year, other families may still need financial assistance.  If you would like to make a donation to the MVSTO, please reach out to the SCCS business office located at Assumption High School.

Calendar Highlights

Here are just a few items highlighted from the detailed online school calendar:

• Dec 18:  3rd grade Gingerbread Houses.  Out of Uniform fund-raiser
• Dec 19:  3 YO PS family event. K-2 Christmas program. K-2 & Band Out of Uniform
• Dec 20:  K-2 Christmas program for the student body.  Red, White, Green Christmas attire dress day.  Early dismissal at 12:40.
• Dec 21:  Christmas break begins
• Dec 25/26:  ECLC Closed
• Dec 27/28:  ECLC Open
• Dec 29:  ECLC Closed
• Jan 1:  ECLC Closed
• Jan 2:  No classes – in-service.  ECLC Open
• Jan 3:  Classes resume

I’m So Blessed!

I get to usher in Christmas with multiple Christmas shows at school.  This weeks starts us off with the 3/4 grade show on Tuesday, and the band concert on Thursday.  Next week has the K-2 Christmas performance.  It’s just not Christmas without 5th graders playing “Good King Wenceslas,” a program about the real meaning of Christmas, or K-2 singing in the church.

School Religious Services

We’ll be in the church three times this week.  We’ll celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe with Mass and a little special blessing after Mass on Tuesday. Wednesday is our regular school Mass day. Friday is reconciliation for 2nd-8th graders. There’s no point in being in a Catholic school if we don’t make our faith a priority.

Civic Oration Competition Final Round This Week

The final round of the speech contest portion of civic oration is this week. Good luck to the following students who will be competing in the “parish center round:”

7th/8th Grade Division: Caitlyn C (7), Derek C (7), Miranda G (8), Alison J (8), Sophia N (7), and Natalie S (8)

5th/6th Grade Division: Addelyn A (5), William C (6), Maggie C (5), Mia V (5), Paloma S (6), and Payton S (5)

We would also like to recognize the following students who made it to the second round of the speech contest:

5th: Payton I and Elyas R

6th: Isabelle F, Laney G, Iris N, and Aden P

7th: Lucas C, Anthony C, and Evy S

8th: Ellie D, Hailey E, and Sydney S

JA Career Fair vs. SCCS/SAU Career Fair

Emma Wolf and I visited the Junior Achievement career fair for middle schoolers across the river last week. The Bend Expo Center is a great site, and it is large enough that Deere could have an excavator and the police could have a tactical vehicle indoors.  There were probably 60-75 organizations represented. What it lacked, however, was interaction with students about careers. Students were ushered through five “zones” every 20 minutes.  With a total time of 80 minutes on site, students, in groups of about ten or more, would have had less than two minutes at each station. I still prefer the Scott County Catholic Schools and St. Ambrose University 8th Grade Career Fair.

At our career fair, small groups of 8th graders interact with presenters throughout the whole day. Students can really learn something about a career or field of study.  We also have our students talk with college students, and the day concludes with Mass. Outside of athletics, it is the largest cooperative venture of SCCS and SAU. Our career fair is March 1st. If you would like to be a presenter or know someone we should contact, please reach out to Mrs. Wolf, emma.wolf@olvjfkmail.com.

Playground Project

With the receipt of a Scott County Regional Authority grant of $54,5000 toward a new playground, OLV’s finance and parish councils approved the nearly $200.000 playground project. The project includes the removal of all the playground equipment behind the school and replaces it with interconnected play structures, stand alone climbing structures, gravity-line/rail riding systems, and outdoor music equipment.  Part of the play area would have rubberized protective surfacing, and the rest would be surfaced with playground-certified engineered wood fiber (mulch).  Finally, a path would be made from the back doors of the school to the play area. If everything goes well, the new playground would be ready for the fall of 2024. Below is a drawing of the play area:

Talent Show

It’s time to start thinking about the Catholic Schools Week talent show.  Individual and small group acts are encouraged. I still remember my son doing a magic act and playing the guitar, and my daughters singing. We still have the girls’ duet on video!  Look for more details coming out before Christmas break.

Position at JFK

JFK is looking to fill a full-time, school year only childcare, preschool, and recess supervisory position.  Please forward your resume to Chad Steimle at chad.steimle@olvjfkmail.com.

Busy December!

December always seems busy, but this year it seems even more compact.  Thanks for all your support and for trying to keep it all sorted out on your calendars!

Academics Come First

Regardless of how busy we are, academics still need to come first in schools.  Please make sure you and your students are staying on top of the school work. If you need help checking your students’ grades in PowerSchool or don’t have your account set up yet, please email dianne.siefers@olvjfkmail.com.

Mississippi Valley Student Tuition Organization Donations Welcome

Tax advantages still exist for donations to Student Tuition Organizations, and, even with ESAs helping even more students next year, other families may still need financial assistance.  If you would like to make a donation to the MVSTO, please reach out to the SCCS business office located at Assumption High School.

Calendar Highlights

Here are just a few items highlighted from the detailed online school calendar:

• Dec 11:  Civic Oration speeches final round
• Dec 12:  3/4 Christmas show.  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe School Mass.
• Dec 14:  Band Concert. 3/4 Out of Uniform
• Dec 15:  4/5 YO PS family event.  JFK Reconciliation
• Dec 18:  3rd grade Gingerbread Houses.  Out of Uniform fund-raiser
• Dec 19:  3 YO PS family event. K-2 Christmas program. K-2 & Band Out of Uniform
• Dec 20:  K-2 Christmas program for the student body.  Red, White, Green Christmas attire dress day.  Early dismissal at 12:40.
• Dec 21:  Christmas break begins
• Dec 25/26:  ECLC Closed
• Dec 27/28:  ECLC Open
• Dec 29:  ECLC Closed
• Jan 1:  ECLC Closed
• Jan 2:  No classes – in-service.  ECLC Open
• Jan 3:  Classes resume

I’m So Blessed!

With the receipt of a Scott County Regional Authority grant of $54,5000 toward a new playground, OLV’s finance and parish councils approved the nearly $200.000 playground project. The project includes the removal of all the playground equipment behind the school and replaces it with interconnected play structures, stand alone climbing structures, gravity-line/rail riding systems, and outdoor music equipment.  Part of the play area would have rubberized protective surfacing, and the rest would be surfaced with playground-certified engineered wood fiber (mulch).  Finally, a path would be made from the back doors of the school to the play area. If everything goes well, the new playground would be ready for the fall of 2024. Below is a drawing of the play area:

Mystery Lake

JFK’s middle schoolers performed Mystery Lake, a play written by our own technology coordinator Dianne Siefers and directed by Ms. Siefers and Mrs. Potter.  It’s amazing what our students can do!

Civic Oration Competition Rounds Begin This Week

Students in grades 5-8 begin the competition rounds of civic oration this week.  Civic oration starts as a research paper writing project and continues through public speaking. Approximately 75% of our 8th graders mention civic oration as the activity for which they are most proud or thankful for in their education at JFK. This year’s civic oration theme is animals.

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

JFK students will celebrate Mass twice this week: our regular Wednesday Mass and the holy day of obligation Mass on Friday for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.  OLV has a vigil Mass at 6:00 p.m. on December 7th and Masses at 7:00 a.m., 8:15 a.m., and 12:00 p.m. on the 8th.

Talent Show

It’s time to start thinking about the Catholic Schools Week talent show.  Individual and small group acts are encouraged. I still remember my son doing a magic act and playing the guitar, and my daughters singing. We still have the girls’ duet on video!  Look for more details coming out before Christmas break.

Positions in SCCS

1. JFK is looking to fill a full-time, school year only childcare, preschool, and recess supervisory position.  Please forward your resume to Chad Steimle at chad.steimle@olvjfkmail.com.
2. The Little Lancers at Lourdes Catholic School have both a Full time and a Part time Childcare position open in the childcare center.   Please forward your resume to Beth Giese at beth.giese@lourdes.pvt.k12.ia.us  or contact her with any questions.
3. SCCS Business Office is looking for a Full-time  Bookkeeper/Accountant to join the team.  If you have 2-4 years of accounting education and or equivalent experience, please send your resume to Nikki Gartner at nikki.gartner@sccsiowa.org
4. Villa Maria is looking for Full and Part-time Childcare positions.  Please forward your resume to Lauren Hovey at lauren.hovey@assumptionhigh.org

Busy December!

December always seems busy, but this year it seems even more compact.  Thanks for all your support and for trying to keep it all sorted out on your calendars!

Academics Come First

Regardless of how busy we are, academics still need to come first in schools.  Please make sure you and your students are staying on top of the school work. We just passed the mid-way point of the second quarter, and there are way too many students with missing work. If you need help checking your students’ grades in PowerSchool or don’t have your account set up yet, please email dianne.siefers@olvjfkmail.com.

Calendar Highlights

Here are just a few items highlighted from the detailed online school calendar:

• Dec 4:  Civic Oration speeches round 1
• Dec 6:  Civic Oration speeches round 2
• Dec 7:  5th-8th Out of Uniform.  1st/2nd Gr Field Trip
• Dec 8:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Holy Day of Obligation)
• Dec 9:  Ladies Night
• Dec 10:  Ignite Sunday
• Dec 11:  Civic Oration speeches final round
• Dec 12:  3/4 Christmas show.  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe School Mass.
• Dec 14:  Band Concert
• Dec 15:  4/5 YO PS family event.  JFK Reconciliation
• Dec 18:  3rd grade Gingerbread Houses
• Dec 19:  3 YO PS family event. K-2 Christmas program
• Dec 20:  K-2 Christmas program for the student body.  Red, White, Green Christmas attire dress day.  Early dismissal at 12:40.
• Dec 21:  Christmas break begins
• Dec 25/26:  ECLC Closed
• Dec 27/28:  ECLC Open
• Dec 29:  ECLC Closed
• Jan 1:  ECLC Closed
• Jan 2:  No classes – in-service.  ECLC Open
• Jan 3:  Classes resume

JFK GROWS Students of the Month

Each morning, students and teachers at JFK recite the JFK Difference:  JFK GROWS.  We put God first, use Respectful behaviors, find Opportunities to serve, are Welcoming to all, and make Safe choices.  Each month, we recognize one student at each grade level, alternating each month between the two homerooms, whose teachers have observed exhibiting these traits particularly well at school during the past month:

• Kindergarten:  Everly C
  • Everly comes to school every morning with a smile on her face and ready to learn.  She is a good listener, works hard at following directions, and waits patiently for her turn.  Everly is kind to her classmates and eager to play with everyone
• 1st Grade:  Alicia S
  • Alicia comes to school with a smile on her face and is ready to work. She follows the school rules and is a friend to all.
• 2nd Grade:  Gracie T
  • Gracie is a shining example of the JFK Difference. Her bright smile lights up the room, and she is kind to everyone she meets. She has incredible patience and always asks questions when she doesn’t understand something. She is always willing to invite others to play or help with anything someone needs.
• 3rd Grade:  Gabriel S
  •  Gabriel is a responsible student who is always thinking of others. He is often praised by his classmates for his many acts of kindness.
• 4th Grade:  Aaron T
  • Aaron always has a smile on his face, and his good attitude is contagious!!   He is willing to help others and is respectful of everyone.  He also loves his role as an altar server at Masses.
• 5th Grade:  Liam S
  • Liam is a hard worker and tries to help anyone in need. He makes safe choices and reminds others to do the same.
• 6th Grade:  Isabelle F
  • Isabelle is a hard worker who is respectful and always willing to lend a helping hand.
• 7th Grade:  Derek C
  • Derek meets a dictionary definition of dependable. He always does everything that is asked of him.  He is precise in his work without going overboard, and his behavior is always on point. He helps his peers without doing their work for them. He is polite, genuine and rolls with the constant changes to 7th graders’ lives.
• 8th Grade:  Alison J
  • Alison has a positive attitude and a great work ethic in class.

I’m So Blessed!

We received a Scott County Regional Authority grant of $54,5000 toward a new playground.  The SCRA is related to the Isle Casino in Bettendorf and is a good supporter of education.  JFK’s Home & School Association, student council, and OLV’s Foundation have also already pledged support for a new playground.  We hope to have enough of a financial commitment that OLV’s Finance Council will approve the project at its November meeting this week.  The project is estimated to be just under $200,000.

Portrait of a JFK Graduate Survey

Thanks to everyone who responded to the survey regarding JFK’s student learning goals and the development of a Portrait of a JFK Graduate.  If you would still like to respond to the survey, please use the following link: survey or link/url:  https://forms.gle/TqPdJYYL5vEwaGdt9

Positions in SCCS

1. JFK is looking to fill a full-time, school year only childcare, preschool, and recess supervisory position.  Please forward your resume to Chad Steimle at chad.steimle@olvjfkmail.com.
2. The Little Lancers at Lourdes Catholic School have both a Full time and a Part time Childcare position open in the childcare center.   Please forward your resume to Beth Giese at beth.giese@lourdes.pvt.k12.ia.us  or contact her with any questions.
3. SCCS Business Office is looking for a Full-time  Bookkeeper/Accountant to join the team.  If you have 2-4 years of accounting education and or equivalent experience, please send your resume to Nikki Gartner at nikki.gartner@sccsiowa.org
4. Villa Maria is looking for Full and Part-time Childcare positions.  Please forward your resume to Lauren Hovey at lauren.hovey@assumptionhigh.org

Calendar Highlights

Here are just a few items highlighted from the detailed online school calendar:

• Nov 28:  Skate Night.  Student Council out of uniform fund-raiser for Univ of Iowa Children’s Hospital
• Nov 30:  First Reconciliation
• Dec 1:  JFK fall play.  2nd grade out of uniform
• Dec 3:  Advent begins
• Dec 4:  Civic Oration speeches round 1
• Dec 6:  Civic Oration speeches round 2
• Dec 7:  5th-8th Out of Uniform.  1st/2nd Gr Field Trip
• Dec 8:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Holy Day of Obligation)
• Dec 9:  Ladies Night
• Dec 10:  Ignite Sunday
• Dec 11:  Civic Oration speeches final round
• Dec 12:  3/4 Christmas show.  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe School Mass.
• Dec 14:  Band Concert
• Dec 15:  4/5 YO PS family event.  JFK Reconciliation
• Dec 18:  3rd grade Gingerbread Houses
• Dec 19:  3 YO PS family event. K-2 Christmas program
• Dec 20:  K-2 Christmas program for the student body.  Red, White, Green Christmas attire dress day.  Early dismissal at 12:40.
• Dec 21:  Christmas break begins
• Dec 25/26:  ECLC Closed
• Dec 27/28:  ECLC Open
• Dec 29:  ECLC Closed
• Jan 1:  ECLC Closed
• Jan 2:  No classes – in-service.  ECLC Open
• Jan 3:  Classes resume

That’s Not Sawdust

Sometimes when I do a lot of sanding on a woodworking project, my clothes, arms, and even my hair will be covered in dust.  I always vacuum myself off or change my clothes before going upstairs.  Friday morning was no different except that when I was upstairs I looked in the mirror and saw how poor of a job I did getting the dust out of my hair.  I shook my head and ran my hand through my hair to remove the dust with no luck.  It was only after several unsuccessful attempts to remove the dust that I realized that the dust was actually my greying hair!

Chad

I’m So Blessed!

I took advantage of the Nothing Bundt Cake Sale on Friday.  As I ate some that evening, I thought I might have died and gone to heaven.  Wow!  They were good!  Thanks, Home & School, for organizing that “pop up sale.”

All of my children will be in town for Thanksgiving.  My older two are here now and will work from our house for a couple of days.  My youngest two will arrive Tuesday night and Wednesday morning.  It’s been a while since we’ve all been together so I’m really looking forward to this Thanksgiving.

Mock Trial

The regional competition for Middle School Mock Trial was last week.  It’s an amazing process and quite the experience.  There are aspects of it that seem so realistic too.  A couple of weeks ago, I was subpoenaed to testify regarding the damage to our fence in August that was captured on our video system.  When on the stand, the prosecutor was trying to admit the video clips as evidence, and the defense attorneys were objecting due to “lack of foundation.”  Later, when I was being cross-examined, I almost chuckled as I was being questioned about whether or not I was an “expert” at video; it was so much like mock trial!

Below are the students who participated on one of JFK’s two teams:

6th grade:  Claire A, Madison H., Isabelle F., Wesley W, Ayden T., Adie P., Keaton F., and Greyson C.

7th grade:  Faithlyn F., Sophia N., Darian M., and Lucas C.

8th grade:  Greyson B., Emily S., Catalyna R., and Colin L.

The following students were recognized as Outstanding Attorneys:  Sophia N., Catalyna R., Greyson B., and Claire A.

Outstanding Witnesses were the following:  Colin L., Emily S., Faithlyn F., and Isabelle F.

Mock Trial participants should wear their Mock Trial t-shirts on Tuesday with uniform bottoms. They can also wear them with uniform bottoms until Christmas break.

Scott County Regional Authority Grant to be Received

We were notified last week that we will be receiving a Scott County Regional Authority grant toward a new playground.  We submitted an application for over $50,000, and we’ll find out how much we will receive on Monday.  JFK’s Home & School Association, student council, and OLV’s Foundation have already pledged support for a new playground.  The SCRA is related to the Isle Casino in Bettendorf.

Portrait of a JFK Graduate Survey

Thanks to everyone who responded to the survey regarding JFK’s student learning goals and the development of a Portrait of a JFK Graduate.  If you would still like to respond to the survey, please use the following link: survey or link/url:  https://forms.gle/TqPdJYYL5vEwaGdt9

Calendar Highlights

Here are just a few items highlighted from the detailed online school calendar:

• Nov 22:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC Open
• Nov 23/24:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC Closed
• Nov 28:  Skate Night.  Student Council out of uniform fund-raiser for Univ of Iowa Children’s Hospital
• Nov 30:  First Reconciliation
• Dec 1:  JFK fall play.  2nd grade out of uniform
• Dec 4:  Civic Oration speeches round 1
• Dec 6:  Civic Oration speeches round 2
• Dec 8:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Holy Day of Obligation)
• Dec 11:  Civic Oration speeches final round
• Dec 12:  3/4 Christmas show
• Dec 14:  Band Concert
• Dec 15:  4/5 YO PS family event.  JFK Reconciliation
• Dec 18:  3rd grade Gingerbread Houses
• Dec 19:  3 YO PS family event. K-2 Christmas program
• Dec 20:  K-2 Christmas program for the student body.  Red, White, Green Christmas attire dress day.  Early dismissal at 12:40.
• Dec 21:  Christmas break begins

Chad

I’m So Blessed!

There is so much happening at JFK and OLV that it’s difficult to coordinate schedules.  As we move into Advent, the calendar becomes even more full.  We were just moving some things around last week to try to make them all fit!  We appreciate everyone’s flexibility as well.

Out of Uniform Guidelines – Confused Myself

With all the conversations among SCCS administrators regarding hooded attire, I even confused myself regarding JFK’s policy for out of uniform guidelines and then gave bad advice for the student council out of uniform dress days.  JFK’s out of uniform guidelines state the following, among other things:  “Hats and hoods may only be worn inside the building if specifically stated as part of the special dress day.”  I believe this refers to hoods being up, which is different than wearing hooded attire at all on out of uniform days.  The latter is the conversation taking place among administrators now, especially as related to concealing and using cell phones throughout the day.  Hooded attire, as per JFK’s current policy for out of uniform guidelines, however, would be allowed on out of uniform days; hoods worn up would not be allowed.

Calendar Highlights

Here are just a few items highlighted from the detailed online school calendar:

• Nov 13:  2nd Grade Sacramental Prep
• Nov 14:  Regional Mock Trial.  H & S.
• Nov 16:  8th Grade Confirmation Prep.  7/8 Choir Out of Uniform
• Nov 17:  Nothing Bundt Cakes Sale.  Butterbraid delivery.  Pajama Day Out of Uniform
• Nov 19:  Ignite Sunday
• Nov 22:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC Open
• Nov 23/24:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC Closed
• Nov 28:  Skate Night
• Nov 30:  First Reconciliation
• Dec 1:  JFK fall play
• Dec 4:  Civic Oration speeches round 1
• Dec 6:  Civic Oration speeches round 2
• Dec 8:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Holy Day of Obligation)
• Dec 11:  Civic Oration speeches final round
• Dec 12:  3/4 Christmas show
• Dec 14:  Band Concert
• Dec 15:  4/5 YO PS family event.  JFK Reconciliation
• Dec 18:  3rd grade Gingerbread Houses
• Dec 19:  3 YO PS family event. K-2 Christmas program
• Dec 20:  K-2 Christmas program for the student body.  Red, White, Green Christmas attire dress day.  Early dismissal at 12:40.
• Dec 21:  Christmas break begins

Chad

I’m So Blessed!

We had a diocesan report card in time for conferences!

JFK GROWS Students of the Month

Each morning, students and teachers at JFK recite the JFK Difference:  JFK GROWS.  We put God first, use Respectful behaviors, find Opportunities to serve, are Welcoming to all, and make Safe choices.  Each month, we recognize one student at each grade level, alternating each month between the two homerooms, whose teachers have observed exhibiting these traits particularly well at school during the past month:

• Kindergarten:  Conrad H.
  • Conrad is having an awesome start in Kindergarten! He always tries his best in class and is a hard worker. He follows classroom rules and looks for ways to be helpful in the classroom to his teachers and his friends.
• 1st Grade:  Jude T.
  • Jude is a respectful student and tries to include everyone in games and activities. We enjoy his positive attitude in 1Y!
• 2nd Grade:  XaiElle L.R.
  • XaiElle is a sweet student with a big heart. You can count on her to give a hug, to work hard, and to help.
• 3rd Grade:  Annsley W.
  • Annsley follows directions and gives 100% of her best effort in class. Also, she is a great friend to her classmates.
• 4th Grade:  Kai D.
  • Kai demonstrates the JFK Difference daily! He is new to our school this year, and he has shown that he loves God and his neighbor. He is always kind, respectful, and comes to school with a positive attitude.
• 5th Grade:  Vance O.
  • Vance does a nice job staying on task and completing his assignments on time.  He is very polite and patient, and he treats students and teachers with respect.  One can always count on Vance to follow directions the first time given.
• 6th Grade:  Iris N.
  •  Iris is a helpful student who not only helps her classmates, but her teachers as well. She is also very respectful and follows classroom rules and procedures.
• 7th Grade:  Kaitlyn E.
  • Kaitlyn goes out of her way to be helpful to everyone around her and always has a smile on her face.
• 8th Grade:  Adrian E.L.
  • Adrian is always willing to speak in front of school, class, or peers. Adrian participates in Mass with a positive attitude and volunteers for multiple roles. He even used his ability to speak over the PA system at school.

Operation Christmas Child

Second, 7th, and 8th graders involved in sacramental preparation were invited to participate in a service project:  Operation Christmas Child.  It is now time to collect the filled shoeboxes this week, with deadline being Friday.  In the envelope inside the shoebox should be the $10 to cover shipping costs.  On the envelope should be your child’s name, whether the gifts are for a boy or girl and the age category (2-4, 5-9, or 10-14 years old).  The box should NOT be taped.  For more information or additional boxes, please contact Kaye Meyers davolvcre@diodav.org

Parent/Teacher Conferences

The remaining parent/teacher conferences are on November 6th.  Conferences for PS-5th graders are scheduled.  Sixth-8th grade conferences are all drop-in as multiple teachers are involved for each child.  Conferences are from 5:00-7:30 p.m. on November 6th.

Calendar Highlights

Here are just a few items highlighted from the detailed online school calendar:

• Nov 6:  Evening parent/teacher conferences.
• Nov 9:  JFK choir concert
• Nov 10:  JFK has classes.  (The DCSD does not have classes.)  No buses.  Red/white/blue out of uniform dress day
  • Normal out of uniform guidelines apply, which also means no hooded attire and no face paint or extravagant make up
• Nov 10:  Board and Brush Workshop
• Nov 13:  2nd Grade Sacramental Prep
• Nov 14:  Regional Mock Trial.  H & S.
• Nov 16:  8th Grade Confirmation Prep
• Nov 17:  Nothing Bundt Cakes Sale.  Butterbraid delivery
• Nov 19:  Ignite Sunday
• Nov 22:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC Open
• Nov 23/24:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC Closed
• Nov 28:  Skate Night
• Nov 30:  First Reconciliation

Chad

I’m So Blessed!

Teachers at JFK have been so patient as the diocese keeps developing a new report card.  I probably ran samples nearly every day last week and sometimes more than once per day.  Each time I ran the samples, the formatting was different, and/or some new issue was discovered that couldn’t be easily explained.  With custom programming being done and settings at the diocesan level, building level, course level, and assignment level, there have been many scenarios that we’ve had to explore as we add standards-references to K-8 report cards this year.  Teachers have done so much to help bring about more detailed report cards this year!

Grades and Report Cards

Even with all the attention this fall, the development of new report cards WHILE teachers are also grading and entering information into the system may lead to some unexpected discrepancies when report cards are printed or used/issued the first time around this quarter.  Conferences will be even more important as conversations can be held to share how students are really doing while report card development tries to catch up.

Time permitting, I will also share more information regarding the new report cards and challenges through a separate email early this week.

I hope you are keeping track of your student’s grades through PowerSchool.  Students also have their own access to their grades through PowerSchool.  If you cannot access your child’s grades through PowerSchool, please reach out to Dianne Siefers at dianne.siefers@olvjfkmail.com.   For more detailed information about the grades themselves, please contact your child’s teacher(s).

Parent/Teacher Conferences

Parent/teacher conferences are on November 2nd and 6th.  Conferences for PS-5th graders are scheduled.  Sixth-8th grade conferences are all drop-in as multiple teachers are involved for each child.  Conferences are from 8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.  and 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on November 2nd and 5:00-7:30 p.m. on November 6th.  There are no classes on November 2nd and 3rd.

Calendar Highlights

Here are just a few items highlighted from the detailed online school calendar:

• Oct 31:  Black/orange dress day.  All Saints Day Vigil Mass
  • Normal out of uniform guidelines apply, which also means no hooded attire and no face paint or extravagant make up
• Nov 1:  All Saints Day – Holy Day of Obligation.  Masses at 7 a.m., 8:15 a.m., 12 p.m., and 6 p.m.
• Nov 2/3:  No classes.  ECLC open.
• Nov 2:  Parent/teacher conferences
• Nov 4/5:  Bazaar
• Nov 6:  Evening parent/teacher conferences
• Nov 9:  JFK choir concert
• Nov 10:  JFK has classes.  (The DCSD does not have classes.)  No buses.  Red/white/blue out of uniform dress day
  • Normal out of uniform guidelines apply, which also means no hooded attire and no face paint or extravagant make up
• Nov 10:  Board and Brush Workshop
• Nov 13:  2nd Grade Sacramental Prep
• Nov 14:  Regional Mock Trial
• Nov 16:  8th Grade Confirmation Prep
• Nov 17:  Nothing Bundt Cakes Sale.  Butterbraid delivery
• Nov 19:  Ignite Sunday
• Nov 22:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC Open
• Nov 23/24:  Thanksgiving break.  ECLC Closed

Chad