Principal’s Post for April 26, 2026

Posted on April 26, 2026 by csteimle

🆕New/Updated Information

ESA Application Site Now Open

The ESA application site is now open! Applications for the 2026-27 school year are now being accepted. As of Saturday, there were 238 completed applications in Odyssey or about 53% of the registered families for 2026-27. You must apply every year, even if you are already receiving an ESA.

State ESA Website

7th Grade Shark Tank

Congratulations to our 7th graders for completing their ELA/Science Shark Tank projects this week.

The top three were:

#1 EZ Rake: A rake that converts to be able to pick up the piles of leaves: Payton S, Gabbie U, Nevaeh M

#2 Rainguard: A backpack with an umbrella: Liam S and Elyas R

#3 OO Fragrance: Perfume/cologne with a petroleum jelly (Vaseline) base: Olivia R and Olivia T

Our other finalists, in alphabetical order:

FlavoFork: A fork with a reservoir and tube for applying sauces/condiments to each bite: Aria E and Levi F

Pathfinder Gloves: Gloves with a compass and flashlights attached: Jace H, Logan S, and Austin L

Singing Water: A water bottle with speaker that plays music at intervals to remind you to hydrate: Mia V and Arianna R

Called by Name

“I have called you by name: you are mine” Isaiah 43:1b

Ever feel like someone you know or have met would make a good priest, sister, brother or deacon? Know someone who might need a nudge or someone else to validate what they may feel themselves? Being in community means we share in the resposibility to help one another recognize and live out their vocation. Don’t be afraid to reach out to Fr. Andrew Rauenbuehler and send him the name: rauenbuehlera@diodav.org. I sent him two names a couple of weeks ago and nearly 30 names today.

📌Still Relevant

Teaching Job Open at JFK for 2026-27

There is one teaching position now open at JFK for 2026-27. Adjustments of teaching assignments will take place so we are currently looking for someone to fill a position in grades 1-5 or work as a reading interventionist. To apply for a teaching position at JFK, please submit your resume and transcripts to Logan Ahnquist at logan.ahnquist@sccsiowa.org. You can find more information and the online application that needs to be completed at the following website https://davenportdiocese.schoolspring.com/

I-Ready Math Requirements

I-Ready use can help your child’s math skills.

I-Ready Math is an online program we use to better understand each student’s math strengths and learning needs. It begins with a short diagnostic/screener that helps identify what skills a student has mastered and where additional support or challenge is needed. Based on those results, i-Ready provides personalized math lessons that adjust to each child’s level, allowing students to work at an appropriate pace while building confidence and understanding. At school, students use i-Ready Math for at least 30 minutes per week as part of their regularly scheduled instructional time. That should be enough time to at least do one i-Ready lesson per week. Students not finishing the lesson at school will have it assigned as homework. In addition, students who scored below benchmark in math at both the fall and winter screenings will be required to work with i-Ready outside of school hours, reinforcing the school/home partnership. Upper grades are having the greatest challenges in completing their minutes, and we would really like to prevent large numbers of students having to stay after school. Students may always voluntarily do i-Ready lessons at home as well.

Leaps & Bounds Summer 2026

Leaps & Bounds focuses on reading and math for students currently in K-5th grade. About two hours is used for reading, one hour for math, and 30 minutes for recess/snack. Space is limited, and a minimum number of students is also needed in order for it to be viable. Currently, ESA funds are not able to be used for it. This summer’s two week session is July 13-17 and 20-24. Registration materials can be found online.

Altar Server Training

Possible Summer Projects at JFK

It’s already time to get summer projected set up. Here’s some of the possibilities we’re working on for JFK this year:

Replacing lockers and cork bars in the hallways
Adding more sound diffusing/absorption to the band/music room
Replacing flooring in some of the smaller work spaces, like interventionists’ offices
Work on our fields
Bathroom handicapped accessiblity
Fencing along the parish center roof
Installation of new outdoor basketball poles, backboards, etc. and the installation of new backboards in the gym
Sidewalks, bollards, and concrete planters and barriers to support security and new parking lot traffic patterns

Checking Students’ Grades and Missing Work

Below is a link to the instructions for parents to check students’ “in progress” standards grades. It also includes directions for checking missing assignments and Algebra grades for students taking the class at Assumption. The directions cover how to use both the PowerSchool portal on a computer and the PowerSchool app.

Important notes:

There are some things that just cannot be done on the app. You will have to use a computer for them.
There is a message that says “Grades disabled by school.” IGNORE this message. It references a certain type of grade and not the standards-referenced grades we are using.

Instructions

📚Learning Habits Matter

Re-Reading Builds Fluency

Sometimes the best next read… is the same one.

Students sometimes think that once they finish a book or passage, they should immediately move on to something new. In reality, re-reading is one of the most effective ways to strengthen reading skills.

When students revisit a text, several important things happen:

Words become more familiar and are recognized more automatically
Reading becomes smoother and more expressive
Understanding deepens as new details and connections are noticed

Re-reading supports students at every grade level, just in different ways:

PK–2
Re-reading favorite picture books builds early word recognition, confidence, and a sense of story.

Grades 3–5
Re-reading more challenging passages helps develop fluency and allows students to focus more on meaning.

Grades 6–8
Re-reading complex texts leads to deeper understanding, stronger analysis, and better retention of key ideas.

Re-reading is not a sign that a text is too easy. More often, it is a sign that a student is doing the work required to become a stronger reader.

🗓️ Highlighted Events

Multiple calendars are available on our website, www.olvjfk.com. On the school side of the website, a one-page summary calendar is on the front page. Detailed calendars can also be reached by clicking on the calendars heading toward the upper right corner of the website. Anything underlined on the calendar can be clicked on, and more details will open for you. Below are a few highlighted events:

Apr 28: Last Student Council Supply Store
Apr 29: Mid-Qtr
Apr 30: H & S. Papa Murphy’s Dine & Donate. Purple/Orange Fundraiser
May 3: First Communion
May 4: Reading/Math Screening begin. 5E Golfing
May 5: 5C Golfing.
May 6: Staff Luncheon
May 7/8: Crusader Theater School Performances
May 7: Youth & Family Engagement
May 8/9: Crusader Theater Perfomances
May 12: JFK Band Concert at AHS
May 13: 8th Gr Band Field Trip
May 15: JFK Night at the Steamwheelers
May 16: Youth & Family Engagement Event
May 29: Last Day of K-8

💭Personal Sharing

I woke up at 4:00 a.m. on Saturday from a dream I hadn’t had in years. I was back in junior high.

In the dream, I was trying to stand up for another student who was being picked on—while also trying not to become the next target myself. It felt familiar in a way I hadn’t expected.

The early part of junior high was not easy for me. In elementary school, I was a strong student. Teachers had me working on different math, different spelling, and independent projects. I was used to feeling confident.

That changed when I got to junior high. I remember struggling in math for the first time. I remember putting so much pressure on myself in shop class that I couldn’t move forward on projects and ended up with the lowest grade I ever received – a D. In shop class! I remember having books knocked out of my hands on the stairwell by older students I didn’t even know.

I also remember something quieter, but just as significant: going from a close group of friends in sixth grade to feeling like I was starting over. Expanding friendships wasn’t as easy as I had assumed it would be. It felt isolating at first.

Looking back, I don’t recall many adults at my school recognizing what that transition felt like for me personally. They may have understood junior high students in general, but I’m not sure they really knew me.

Thankfully, with support from my family—and over time—things improved. By ninth grade, I had regained my footing academically. A PE teacher who had me two years in a row (and whom I didn’t always appreciate at the time) pushed me hard and helped rebuild my confidence in ways I didn’t fully understand until later. By the time I entered high school, I was back on track and enjoying school again. I became a leader in band and the valedictorian of my high school class.

That experience came back to me this weekend.

And it made me notice a few things I see every day:

A sixth grader holding the hand of a younger sibling while walking into school.
A seventh grader confidently presenting a Shark Tank project to an audience and the judges.
An eighth grader stopping to give a quick high five or hug to Mrs. Poster or Mrs. Maxwell.
Students gathered around Mrs. Nicoletto and Mrs. Thomas in the hallway.
Fr. Patrick greeting students by name as they head out for the day.
Students stopping by the office for what really seems to just be the need to talk to other people who care.

Moments like that don’t seem like much on their own. But taken together, they reflect something important:

Students being known.
Students being connected.
Students feeling like they belong in a place where they are recognized—not just as students, but as real people.

It’s easy to take that for granted when you see it every day.
This weekend was a good reminder not to.

Chad

Principal’s Post for April 19, 2026

Posted on April 19, 2026 by csteimle

New/Updated Information

ISASPs

ISASPs aren’t really just about the score — they’re about checking whether our system of instruction is working, identifying who needs more support, and making sound educational decisions.

ISASPs help us check the instruction that every student recieves. They give us an external signal about how well our everyday classroom instruction is working for all students in the aggregate. If patterns show up — strengths or gaps — we can adjust our teaching for everyone.

ISASPs help us identify students who need targeted support. They, along with screeners, are used to determine which students may need more intensive support.

ISASPs may be used for readiness decisions. They, along with screeners and teacher recommendations, for example, are used to determine readiness for Algebra at Assumption High School while an 8th grader.

In the end, ISASPs helps us make better decisions—for our instruction, for our support, and for each student’s next step.

ISASP tests begin tomorrow for students in grades 3-8. If your child has an appointment for this week, and it can be moved, please do so. We’d really like everyone to complete the testing with their class. Eighth graders who go to AHS for Algebra will report to JFK instead on April 21st and 23rd so they have fewer “make-ups” and special scheduling. We also want to emphasize that students should be on time during ISASP week. Once we start testing in the morning, students are not allowed to interupt their class. School starts at 7:25 a.m.

Students need to bring their Chromebook/laptop to school every day the week of April 20th through April 24th. Devices should be charged nightly. Appropriate rest and a good breakfast are important as well. Once we enter “testing mode” soon after classes begin, we don’t take a break for at least 1 1/2 hours each morning.

ESA Application Site Now Open

The ESA application site is now open! Applications for the 2026-27 school year are now being accepted. You must apply every year, even if you are already receiving an ESA.

State ESA Website

New President for SCCS

Excerpts from the press release:

Scott County Catholic Schools is honored to announce the appointment of Michael Fisher as President. Mr. Fisher brings a record of leadership, strategic vision, and mission-centered stewardship to Scott County Catholic Schools. Mr. Fisher currently resides in Tucson, AZ, with his wife, Ellen, and their three children. Mr. Fisher stated, “I’m excited to join Scott County Catholic Schools as president of the system. As a practicing Roman Catholic, I firmly believe that the most remarkable aspect of our mission is the ability to guide every facet of a student’s development—academic, spiritual, and personal—within a holistic, faith-filled environment.”

Mr. Fisher holds a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Creighton University with an emphasis in Catholic Leadership, a Master of Arts in Kinesiology from San Diego State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Mr. Fisher’s professional journey includes serving as Director of Admission & Enrollment Management at Salpointe Catholic High School in Tucson, AZ, Director of Athletics & Teacher at Justin-Siena Catholic High School in Napa, CA, and Assistant Director of Athletics at JSerra Catholic High School in San Juan Capistrano, CA.

As President, Mr. Fisher will oversee the strategic direction of Scott County Catholic Schools, working closely with faculty, families, and the community to foster academic excellence and a faith-filled environment.

Possible Summer Projects at JFK

It’s already time to get summer projected set up. Here’s some of the possibilities we’re working on for JFK this year:

Replacing lockers and cork bars in the hallways
Adding more sound diffusing/absorption to the band/music room
Replacing flooring in some of the smaller work spaces, like interventionists’ offices
Work on our fields
Bathroom handicapped accessiblity
Fencing along the parish center roof
Installation of new outdoor basketball poles, backboards, etc. and the installation of new backboards in the gym
Sidewalks, bollards, and concrete planters and barriers to support security and new parking lot traffic patterns

Still Relevant

Teaching Job Open at JFK for 2026-27

I-Ready Math Requirements

I-Ready use can help your child’s math skills.

Leaps & Bounds Summer 2026

Altar Server Training – Mass Attendance

Checking Students’ Grades and Missing Work

Important notes:

There are some things that just cannot be done on the app. You will have to use a computer for them.
There is a message that says “Grades disabled by school.” IGNORE this message. It references a certain type of grade and not the standards-referenced grades we are using.

Instructions

📚Learning Habits Matter

Estimation

One of the most practical math skills we use every day is estimation.

Estimation is an important math skill because it helps students determine whether answers make sense. For example, if a student calculates that groceries cost $320 when only a few items are in the cart, estimation quickly signals that something went wrong.

Estimation can be practiced through simple questions such as:
• “About how much do you think that will cost?”
• “Is that number close to what you expected?”
• “Is the answer bigger or smaller than you predicted?”

I use estimation all the time.
We have, for example, an ongoing capital improvement project list at JFK. Many of the items have esimates on them sometimes just to determine if they might be something we can manage moving ahead with to get actual quotes. I also estimate how long things might take long before I ever see a schedule. I’m not always right—sometimes I’m close, sometimes I’m way off—but it gives me a place to start. Without that estimate, it’s easy to get stuck waiting for the exact answer. With it, I can keep asking questions, adjusting, and moving forward.

Students who regularly estimate develop stronger mathematical reasoning and are better able to catch errors in their own work.

Estimation keeps you from getting stuck—and in both math and life, that matters.

Highlighted Events

Apr 20 : ISASPs begin. Personal trainer for PE grades 3-8
Apr 23: Papa Murphy’s Dine & Donate
Apr 24: Kickball Tournament/Dance
Apr 25: First Communion Retreat/Rehearsal
Apr 28: Last Student Council Supply Store
Apr 30: H & S. Papa Murphy’s Dine & Donate. Purple/Orange Fundraiser
May 3: First Communion
May 4: Reading/Math Screening begin.
May 6: Staff Luncheon
May 7/8: Crusader Theater School Performances
May 8/9: Crusader Theater Perfomances
May 29: Last Day of K-8

Personal Sharing

As I was bringing the gifts down the aisle with Mrs. Lundquist at the Confirmation Mass on Saturday, I had a brief flashback to walking my daughters down the aisle at their weddings.

Same thought both times: slow down… don’t walk too fast.

Below are those who received the Sacrament of Confirmation at OLV on Sunday:

Chad

Principal’s Post for April 12, 2026

Posted on April 12, 2026April 12, 2026 by csteimle

New/Updated Information

Early Dismissal on Friday – No 4/5 YO PS Classes

Dismissal is 2 hours early (12:40) on Friday.
There are no 4/5 year old preschool classes in the morning or afternoon.

Altar Server Training – Mass Attendance

Altar Server Training will be held Saturday, May 30th from 9:30am-11am in the church. Children who will be entering the 4th grade and up, who are interested in altar serving at Mass, are invited to attend this training. One parent/adult needs to attend with the student. It does seem awkward when we have a record number of students at JFK but no altar servers at some of the weeekend Masses. Of course, it also seems odd that there there is a record number of students at JFK but the number/percent of JFK students at weekend Masses seems like it’s also at a record low, but that’s a different topic!

Teaching Job Open at JFK for 2026-27

Third Quarter Report Cards

We hope to have third quarter report cards printed, sorted, and mailed early this week. Holy Week and the long Easter weekend threw us off our timing!

Still Relevant

ISASPs

ISASP tests are right around the corner: the week of April 20th for students in grades 3-8. If your child has an appointment for that week, and it can be moved, please do so. We’d really like everyone to complete the testing with their class. Eighth graders who go to AHS for Algebra will report to JFK instead on April 21st and 23rd so they have fewer “make-ups” and special scheduling. We also want to emphasize that students should be on time during ISASP week. Once we start testing in the morning, students are not allowed to interupt their class. School starts at 7:25 a.m.

Video Explaining the Mass

Need an explanation of the Mass? Fr. Mike Schmitz takes you through the Mass and talks about each part and what it means in this video.

I-Ready Math Requirements

I-Ready use can help your child’s math skills.

Leaps & Bounds Summer 2026

No Parking on Drive by the Ball Field

There is to be no parking on both sides of the drive by the fall field. Both sides should be open for entering and exiting traffic.

Checking Students’ Grades and Missing Work

Important notes:

There are some things that just cannot be done on the app. You will have to use a computer for them.
There is a message that says “Grades disabled by school.” IGNORE this message. It references a certain type of grade and not the standards-referenced grades we are using.

Instructions

📚Learning Habits Matter

Reading Every Day

It’s not how long students read—it’s how often.

Reading a little each day consistently leads to stronger growth than reading occasionally for longer periods. Like any skill, progress comes from steady, intentional practice over time.

Across grade levels:

PK–2
• Short daily reading with an adult
• Re-reading familiar books to build fluency and confidence

Grades 3–5
• Regular independent reading
• Building stamina and understanding across longer texts

Grades 6–8
• Reading novels, nonfiction, and informational texts
• Engaging with increasingly complex ideas across subjects

Reading is not just an activity—it is thinking work. When students read consistently, they are strengthening their ability to focus, make meaning, and reason through text.

Principal reflection:
My daily reading at home starts each morning by reading the QCTimes online as soon as I get up. When I arrive home after work, I read national news articles chosen from a newsfeed that gives me about 50 articles from a variety of sources to find out “What’s going on in the world?” I also have a novel that’s always in play and typically make it through a book once every two – three weeks. And, yes, even though I read quite a bit, I also spend way too much time mindlessly scrolling through YouTube videos each day!

Highlighted Events

Apr 13: Butter Braid/Cookie Dough Pickup
Apr 14: 6th Field Trip. Coffee & Crumble Truck (6:45 a.m.-10:00 a.m.)
Apr 15: Fr. Andrew at OLV/JFK
Apr 16: Papa Murphy’s Dine & Donate
Apr 17: 2 Hr Early Dismissal. No 4/5 YO PS Classes. Kickball tournament and dance
Apr 18: Confirmation
Apr 20 : ISASPs begin
Apr 23: Papa Murphy’s Dine & Donate
Apr 24: 7th Shark Tank Final Rnd
Apr 25: First Communion Retreat/Rehearsal
Apr 30: H & S. Papa Murphy’s Dine & Donate.
May 29: Last Day of K-8

Personal Sharing

I was incognito at Menard’s this weekend. It took me an extra moment to recognize a JFK family across the store — different setting, different clothes. Probably just as well. They didn’t recognize me either in paint-spattered pants, a sweatshirt, and a baseball cap… even with the JFK logo on!

Chad

Principal’s Post for April 5, 2026

Posted on April 5, 2026April 5, 2026 by csteimle

New/Updated Information

No Classes, ECLC Closed on April 6

April 6th is an in-service day. There are no classes. ECLC is closed.

Video Explaining the Mass

Need an explanation of the Mass? Fr. Mike Schmitz takes you through the Mass and talks about each part and what it means in this video.

Holy Week – Belonging Week

This holy week we also described as belonging week. On Monday, we talked about belonging because we are created in God’s image. We discussed the difference between fitting in, which often comes from fear, and truly belonging, which comes from love and being accepted as God created us. On Tuesday, we focused on respect and the power of our words. We talked about the difference between a bystander and an upstander and how we want to be better upstanders. On Wednesday, we focused on service to others with older and younger kids paring together. On Thursday, we reflected upon how Jesus welcomed people who were often ignored. Our Thursday afternoon program emphasized that we all below and that having “No Fear” leads to loving and accepting one another.

I-Ready Math Requirements

I-Ready use can help your child’s math skills.

Leaps & Bounds Summer 2026

No Parking on Drive by the Ball Field

There is to be no parking on both sides of the drive by the fall field. Both sides should be open for entering and exiting traffic.

Still Relevant

ISASPs

Teaching Jobs Open at JFK for 2026-27

There are two teaching positions now open at JFK for 2026-27. Adjustments of teaching assignments will take place so we are currently looking for anything between 1st – 5th grades and a reading interventionist. To apply for a teaching position at JFK, please submit your resume and transcripts to Logan Ahnquist at logan.ahnquist@sccsiowa.org. You can find more information and the online application that needs to be completed at the following website https://davenportdiocese.schoolspring.com/

Checking Students’ Grades and Missing Work

Important notes:

There are some things that just cannot be done on the app. You will have to use a computer for them.
There is a message that says “Grades disabled by school.” IGNORE this message. It references a certain type of grade and not the standards-referenced grades we are using.

Instructions

📚Learning Habits Matter

Daily Math Practice

If we want kids’ math scores to be better, they need to do more math.

Math isn’t something students improve at by listening or watching—it improves through doing. The good news is that it doesn’t require long sessions. Short, consistent daily practice makes a real difference.

What this can look like at home:

PK–2

Count everyday objects (toys, steps, snacks)
Practice simple addition and subtraction

Grades 3–5

Review multiplication and division facts
Solve a few quick word problems

Grades 6–8

Rework problems from class notes
Solve 1–2 short multi-step problems

Even 5–10 minutes a day builds fluency, confidence, and problem-solving ability over time.

Highlighted Events

Apr 6: In-service. No Classes. ECLC Closed.
Apr 7: 3rd Field Trip. 5/6 to JA BizTown.
Apr 9: Papa Murphy’s Dine & Donate.
Apr 13: Butter Braid/Cookie Dough Pickup
Apr 14: 6th Field Trip. Coffee & Crumble Truck
Apr 15: Fr. Andrew at OLV/JFK
Apr 16: Papa Murphy’s Dine & Donate
Apr 17: 2 Hr Early Dismissal. No 4/5 YO PS Classes. Kickball tournament and dance
Apr 20 : ISASPs begin

Personal Sharing

Hard choice for Easter tradition – the original 1973 Jesus Christ Superstar or the 2018 live one with John Legend? Somehow, I still have difficulty picturing that my mother purchased the two record Jesus Christ Superstar album and played it loudly in the house as we were growing up! After all, my mother probably wore out the Sound of Music and Mary Poppins soundtracks.

Chad

Principal’s Post for March 29, 2026

Posted on March 29, 2026 by csteimle

New/Updated Information

JFK GROWS Students of the Month for March

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, except December, this year, we are recognizing one student from each homeroom whose teachers have observed them exhibiting these traits particularly well at school during the past month:

KE – Lucas R: Lucas comes to school ready to learn and tries his best each day. He is thoughtful toward classmates and often helps friends when they need it.

KI – Alice W: Alice shows God’s love through her actions and her words. She is attentive and loves to learn.

KN – Auden P: Auden is a great friend by his kind words and including others when he plays. He is an independent worker and figures things out on his own. At the end of the school day, Auden always tells me to have a nice day!

1B – Akim K: Akim is always following the JFK difference by following the school rules and working hard. He works hard, makes safe choices, and includes others.

1Y – Annika L: Annika knows when to have fun and when to focus. She tries hard in class and has a kind heart.

2M – Griffin: Griffin is a shining light in our room. He always has a smile for anyone who needs it and is happy to help with any task. Griffin keeps us all in great spirits, is a friend to every student and adult in the school, and works hard to reach goals each day.

2P – Rowan D: Rowan is the first to help his teachers and classmates.He has a kind heart and feels others’ hurt and reaches out to comfort them.

3E – Jude T: Jude has worked hard this year to improve all subjects, especially reading, and consistently puts forth great effort to better himself. He has a great sense of humor and is a good friend and example of what a wonderful classmate can be.

3V – Rey H: Rey is a wonderful example of what it means to be a dedicated learner and a kind classmate. She consistently treats her classmates and teachers with respect and is always one of the first to follow directions. Rey makes our classroom a better place!

4F – Henly M: Henly is more than willing to help others whenever they need it. She remains focused during class instruction and works hard on her assignments. She has a positive attitude and is a friend to anyone in need.

4L – K is for kind, I is for intelligent, N is for nice, G is for great, S is for stupendous, T is for terrific, O is for outstanding, and N is for nifty. Put it together and you have KINGSTON!! A great choice for student of the month.

5C – Jaxon R: Jaxon is new to JFK this year and has fit in seamlessly. He comes in every day with a smile, is always willing to help, and is a good friend to others around him. We are so happy to have him at JFK.

5E – Elaina K: Elaina is an excellent student who always puts forth her absolute best effort. She is always wanting to improve and learn. She asks the best questions and treats all staff and classmates with utmost respect. Elaina always volunteers to help and stays involved, being someone everyone can truly count on. She is an awesome example for all to follow.

6N – AJ J: AJ is a very hard worker and strives to do well in his classes. He is polite and kind and exhibits our JFK GROWS ideals. This is his first year with us, and he has fit in seamlessly.

6T – Kai D: Kai is a hardworking and dependable student who always strives to do his best. He demonstrates kindness by helping his classmates and teachers.

7P – Jace H: Jace has really stood out during the month of March! His work ethic has been spot on, and he’s been on top of everything, even if he happens to be absent. He has done a good job working with his classmates, remaining patient and encouraging to group members who may be struggling or off task. He tries to make sure the classroom is back in order when he leaves it, picking up trash that wasn’t his, etc. Overall, Jace has had a positive March, and you can see the JFK Difference demonstrated through him!

7R – Caleb P: Caleb is a positive and valued member of our classroom community. He works well with others and consistently contributes to group activities with a cooperative attitude. Caleb participates in class discussions and is always willing to help his classmates when they need support. One of the things that stands out most about Caleb is that he always has a smile on his face, which helps create a welcoming and encouraging atmosphere in the classroom. His kindness, teamwork, and positive attitude make him very deserving of being recognized as Student of the Month.

8C – Belle M: Belle participates well on assignments and follows along with instructions. She develops and illustrates the habits of a good student.

8L – Jolee: Jolee has a big heart, is an all around delight and tries her hardest in class. She his eager to help peers and staff.

ISASPs

Still Relevant

Teaching Jobs Open at JFK for 2026-27

I-Ready Math Requirements

I-Ready use can help your child’s math skills.

I-Ready Math is an online program we use to better understand each student’s math strengths and learning needs. It begins with a short diagnostic/screener that helps identify what skills a student has mastered and where additional support or challenge is needed. Based on those results, i-Ready provides personalized math lessons that adjust to each child’s level, allowing students to work at an appropriate pace while building confidence and understanding. At school, students use i-Ready Math for at least 30 minutes per week as part of their regularly scheduled instructional time. That should be enough time to at least do one i-Ready lesson per week. Students not finishing the lesson at school will have it assigned as homework. In addition, students who scored below benchmark in math at both the fall and winter screenings will be required to work with i-Ready outside of school hours, reinforcing the school/home partnership. Students may always voluntarily do i-Ready lessons at home as well.

Registration for 2026-27

If you haven’t been able to use your leftover ESA funds to pay registration fees, please note that it seems to be an issue more with the timing on Odyssey’s part than anything else. Please keep checking periodically in your Odyssey account.

Directions for online registration/application are on the front page of our website, www.olvjfk.com. There are different directions for those who are “re-enrolling” and those who are entirely new to SCCS.

Checking Students’ Grades and Missing Work

Important notes:

There are some things that just cannot be done on the app. You will have to use a computer for them.
There is a message that says “Grades disabled by school.” IGNORE this message. It references a certain type of grade and not the standards-referenced grades we are using.

Instructions

📚Learning Habits Matter

Vocabulary Growth

Students can’t understand what they read if they don’t understand the words.

Vocabulary plays a major role in reading comprehension. Research synthesized by the National Reading Panel and subsequent studies suggests that steady, intentional vocabulary growth matters more than isolated memorization:

K–2: about 5–8 new words per week
Grades 3–5: about 8–10 new words per week
Grades 6–8: about 10–15 new words per week

Vocabulary grows best through repeated exposure and use—not worksheets alone. Reading widely, hearing rich language, and discussing ideas are the primary drivers of long-term vocabulary growth.

Highlighted Events

Mar 30: Chrism Mass at the cathedral
Apr 2: Holy Thursday. Youth & Family Engagement Mtg.
Apr 3: Good Friday. No Classes. ECLC Closed
Apr 4: Parishioners Helping Parishioners
Apr 5: Easter
Apr 6: In-service. No Classes. ECLC Closed.
Apr 7: 3rd Field Trip. 5/6 to JA BizTown.
Apr 13: Butter Braid/Cookie Dough Pickup
Apr 14: 6th Field Trip

Personal Sharing

It was great to get outside and do yard work on Saturday. I’ve so missed being outside in the back yard during winter!

Chad

Principal’s Post for March 1, 2026

Posted on March 1, 2026March 1, 2026 by csteimle

New/Updated Information

JFK GROWS Students of the Month for February

KE – Mya M: Mya is always respectful and welcoming in our classroom. She uses kind words, listens carefully, and follows directions right away.

KE – Max P: Max shows God’s love through caring actions and is a wonderful example of how to treat others.

KI – Callen D: Callen demonstrates strong commitment by giving 100% effort in everything he does. He is an effective communicator who asks questions when clarification is needed and consistently serves others by offering support and advocating for their needs.

KN – Kruze D: Kruze is a kind friend and always willing to assist someone who needs a little extra help. He is a good listener and very attentive during instruction and when directions are given. Kruze likes to have fun during recess but can calm back down in the classroom and be ready to work.

1B – Venessa S: Venessa is always working hard, trying her best, and excelling in school. She is kind to others, respectful to all and a wonderful part of our class.

1Y – Rowan M: Rowan has a positive attitude and strives to do her best. She works and plays well with all her classmates.

2M – Miles A: Miles is a wonderful part of our classroom community. His smile isn’t the only friendly thing about him! He is kind to all students and is one of the first people to offer to help. He works hard to achieve his goals inside and outside of the classroom. I can always count on Miles to be welcoming, helpful, and hardworking.

2P – Octavia F: Octavia gives her all in everything she does. She shines her light brightly by watching out for others and their needs. Octavia is a wonderful member of our class.

3E – Kohen H: Kohen is a dedicated and responsible student who works hard each day. He maintains an appropriate voice level, demonstrates kindness toward classmates, and completes assignments on time with attention to quality and detail.

3V – Beckham M: Beckham has a helpful spirit, and a positive energy that he brings to our class every single day! He shows determination to complete his assignments with a 100% effort. Beckham is a wonderful part of our third grade classroom.

4F – Leo R: Leo is always willing to help out and support a friend in need. He actively participates in class and does his best work at all times. Leo is a joy to have in class.

4L – Harleigh D: Everyone should have a Harleigh. She’s smart, kind, and helpful as can be! We are proud she’s a part of the 4L family.

5C – Natalie V: Natalie works hard everyday in class and is a shining example of our JFK Difference. She is always willing to help those around her and shows up to school everyday with a positive attitude.

5E – Stella P: Stella is a hardworking student who does what she is always asked to do with no complaint. She checks in on her classmates, wanting them to all feel seen and heard. She is goal-oriented and strives to do her best behaviorally and academically. She follows all directions the first time she is asked and is full of patience, generosity, and motivation.

6N – Abigail S: Abigail is a very hard worker always striving to do her best. She is polite and kind and a good example for her peers.

6T – MaKynlee F: MaKynlee is a hard-working and responsible student who gives her best effort. She demonstrates kindness by helping both her classmates and teachers.

7P – Gabby U: Gabby always participates, is ready to help, and makes our class a better place because she gets along with everyone.

7R – Christian L: Christian tries hard in everything he does and consistently puts forth his best effort. He asks thoughtful questions to better understand what he’s learning and always brings a smile and a great attitude to class. His positive energy makes our classroom a happier place to be!

8C – Sierra M: Sierra comes to class prepared, participates in activities, follows along well, and volunteers often.

8L – Harper A: Harper comes to class prepared, participates in activities, follows along well, interacts positively with others, and has a great attitude in class.

ESA Amount Set – State Funding Data

Governor Reynolds signed the bill to raise State Supplemental Aid by 2%. ESAs for 2026-27 will be $8,148 per student. Families need to apply for ESAs every year. The application for 2026-27 has not yet opened. Stay tuned for more information this winter/spring.

Parish supported tuition for 26-27: $6,930

Non-parish supported tuition for 26-27: $8,930

Sources for funding for public school students includes the following: State Supplemental Aid, local taxes, SAVE funding, other local sources, and federal funding. The per pupil amount educating a public school student in Iowa is more than double the tuition in our SCCS Catholic schools.

Per pupil funding for a public school student in Iowa: $19,235.*

*Source: Iowa Department of Management

Nonpublic school enrollment has not dramatically increased as a percent of Iowa’s total student population even with ESAs. For the ten years prior to 2025-26, about 7.1% of the state’s students were in nonpublic schools. In 2025-26, that figure was 8.1%.

SCCS Mission and Governance Committee February Meeting

The SCCS Mission and Governance Committee, composed of principals and advisory board presidents for each school, met in February. The committee reviewed a “status” and “future considerations” document looking at the original strategic plan that led to the formation of SCCS.

Areas that generated considerable discussion:

Space needs and changing enrollment in SCCS and Davenport
Changing enrollment and student needs impact on staffing needs
External competition, including charter schools, new non-public schools, and even new/renovated public schools
Facilities needs and how decisions in one area/building impact other buildings
Clarifying decision-making structures
Strengthening the alignment of the high school and elementary schools
The future of parishes, especially as the number of priests continues to decline
Shifting from scarcity thinking to investing intentionally to further the mission
Leadership succession
Reduced involvement of families in churches and schools

5th-8th Grade Education in Human Growth and Development

Fifth-8^th grade science teachers are preparing for the new state required education in human growth and development, which must include the following:

1. Instruction related to human development inside the womb.
2. A high-definition ultrasound video showing the presence of the brain, heart, and other vital organs in
  early fetal development.
3. A high-quality, computer-generated rendering or animation, or an ultrasound or other real image, that
  depicts the humanity of the unborn child by showing prenatal human development, starting at
  fertilization, noting significant markers in cell growth and organ development throughout every stage of
  pregnancy.

Registration for 2026-27

Verification/Acceptance letters were bul emailed last week. We are still working to communicate with several families individually regarding wait lists and other issues affecting their registrations.

If You Want to Get Better, Do More of It

Like so many things in life, education often follows a simple formula: if you want to get better at something, do more of it. If we want students to be better readers or mathematicians, they need to do more reading and math. This includes reading and math activities at home.

Research summarized by the National Reading Panel and the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development emphasize that reading practice outside of the home is important. It should be appropriately matched to a student’s level and done consistently (rather than all at once). A variety of texts contribute to literacy growth.

Based upon the research, reasonable expectations may look like the following:

K-2: 5-15 minutes per day of independent reading AND additional time reading with or by an adult

3-5: closer to 30 minutes per day

6-8: 25-40 minutes per day

Note that this time may be broken up into smaller segments. In fact, when the time is broken into smaller segments, even more cumulative time may be achieved.

2026-27 School Calendar Available Soon

The draft SCCS Davenport elementary schools’ academic calendar for 2026-27 will go before our advisory board on Tuesday. Once approved, it will be distributed and/or posted to our website.

Assumption HS Musical

Assumption’s musical is this weekend. They have performances at 7:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 2:00 p.m. on Sunday. SCCS students get in free with their activity pass.

Still Relevant

Teaching Jobs Open at JFK for 2026-27

At the present time, we have posted “Multiple Classroom Teaching positions available for Grades 1 through 5” at JFK for next school year. To apply, please submit your resume and transcripts to Logan Ahnquist at logan.ahnquist@sccsiowa.org. You can find more information and the online application that needs to be completed at the following website https://davenportdiocese.schoolspring.com/

I-Ready Math Requirements

I-Ready Math is an online program we use to better understand each student’s math strengths and learning needs. It begins with a short diagnostic/screener that helps identify what skills a student has mastered and where additional support or challenge is needed. Based on those results, i-Ready provides personalized math lessons that adjust to each child’s level, allowing students to work at an appropriate pace while building confidence and understanding. At school, students currently use i-Ready Math for at least 30 minutes per week as part of their regularly scheduled instructional time. That should be enough time to at least do one i-Ready lesson per week. Students not finishing the lesson at school will have it assigned as homework. In addition, students who scored below benchmark in math at both the fall and winter screenings will be required to work with i-Ready outside of school hours, reinforcing the school/home partnership. Students may always voluntarily do i-Ready lessons at home as well.

Checking Students’ Grades and Missing Work

Important notes:

There are some things that just cannot be done on the app. You will have to use a computer for them.
There is a message that says “Grades disabled by school.” IGNORE this message. It references a certain type of grade and not the standards-referenced grades we are using.

Instructions

Highlighted Events

Mar 3: 7th to Finance Park
Mar 5: 4th to Symphony. 5/8 to AHS musical dress rehearsal.
Mar 6: Adoration. Virtual career fair
Mar 6-8: Men’s CEW.
Mar 8: “Spring forward” time change
Mar 9/10: Solo/Ensemble contest
Mar 11: K Vision/Dental. 3rd Vision screening. JFK Reconciliation
Mar 13: Green/White Dress Day. Middle School Youth Night
Mar 14-22: Spring Break. ECLC is open during spring break
Mar 19: JFK Night @ Malibu Jack’s
Mar 20: Middle school youth night.
Mar 21/22: Youth & Family Engagement Event
Mar 23: Classes resume

Personal Sharing

My wife went to visit our youngest daughter and the baby in Kansas City last weekend, and this weekend she visited our oldest daughter in Atlanta. It was bachelor living for me two weekends in a row! When I joked that I was going to stay in my pajamas and eat potato chips all Saturday, my family members responded, “What’s new about that?”

Chad

Principal’s Post for February 22, 2026

Posted on February 22, 2026 by csteimle

New/Updated Information

Registration for 2026-27

Verification/Acceptance letters will begin to go out on Monday. With multiple different verification/acceptance or wait list letters for the various preschool programs and K-8, it will take some time for all of them to be emailed. Expect them to come in grade level “waves,” and you will receive one for each student in your family.

We are currently sitting at about 434 registered and “ready to be accepted” students for K-8 next school year. We have another 20-35 students who have expressed interest and/or are in the process of registration, and waiting lists will be necessary for several grade levels.

If you haven’t been able to use your leftover ESA funds to pay registration fees, please note that it seems to be an issue issue more with the timing on Odyssey’s part than anything else. Please keep checking periodically in your Odyssey account.

Teaching Jobs Open at JFK for 2026-27

Still Relevant

I-Ready Math Requirements

I-Ready Math is an online program we use to better understand each student’s math strengths and learning needs. It begins with a short diagnostic/screener that helps identify what skills a student has mastered and where additional support or challenge is needed. Based on those results, i-Ready provides personalized math lessons that adjust to each child’s level, allowing students to work at an appropriate pace while building confidence and understanding. At school, students currently use i-Ready Math for at least 30 minutes per week as part of their regularly scheduled instructional time. That should be enough time to at least do one i-Ready lesson per week. Students not finishing the lesson at school will have it assigned as homework. In addition, students who scored below benchmark in math at both the fall and winter screenings will be required to work with i-Ready outside of school hours, reinforcing the school/home partnership. Students may always voluntarily do i-Ready lessons at home as well. More information will be mailed the week of January 26th.

OLV Strategic Plan

OLV’s Parish Council passed a new Strategic Plan and moved into the prioritization and implementation phase.

2026-27 K-8 Tuition Rates

Parish supported: $6,930

Non-parish supported: $8,930

2025-26 ESA: $7,988

Estimated 26-27 ESA: $,8,148 The legislators have not approved any increase in funding for any schools yet.

Make Sure ESAs Stay – Take Action Now

The opposition to ESAs may be fierce this legislative session. Please consider taking action to support ESAs. You can see several options through connections with Parents for Educational Choice by Iowa ACE.

Checking Students’ Grades and Missing Work

Important notes:

There are some things that just cannot be done on the app. You will have to use a computer for them.
There is a message that says “Grades disabled by school.” IGNORE this message. It references a certain type of grade and not the standards-referenced grades we are using.

Instructions

Now Hiring: President – Scott County Catholic Schools (SCCS)
Scott County Catholic Schools is seeking a visionary and faith‑driven President to serve
as the Chief Administrative Officer of our vibrant, multi‑school Catholic system located in
the Diocese of Davenport. This is a unique and rewarding leadership opportunity to
shape the future of Catholic education for students, families, and parishes across Scott
County.

About the Role

The President is responsible for advancing our Catholic mission, ensuring excellence in
academic and operational leadership, and guiding the long‑term success and vitality of
the school system. Serving as the executive leader, the President collaborates closely
with the SCCS Board of Directors and Trustees, pastors, principals, and the broader
community.

Key Responsibilities

Mission & Catholic Identity
• Champion and model the Catholic identity of SCCS.
• Ensure Catholic values, teachings, and traditions are integrated into all school
programs, policies, and practices.
• Lead the development and ongoing review of SCCS’s mission, vision, and philosophy.
• Foster a culture of dignity, respect, and spiritual growth for students, families, faculty,
and staff.
Institutional Leadership
• Provide strategic leadership to principals and department heads.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders.
• Represent SCCS across the diocese and broader community.
Operational & Academic Excellence
• Oversee instructional quality, business operations, and system‑wide administration.
• Ensure compliance with all diocesan, state, and federal education guidelines.
• Support continuous improvement and school advancement initiatives.
Stewardship & System Viability
• Collaborate with the Board on long‑range planning and policy implementation.
• Ensure sound fiscal stewardship and budget oversight.
• Lead hiring, supervision, evaluation, and formation of key personnel.
• Promote strong partnerships with parishes, families, and community organizations.

Qualifications
• Practicing Roman Catholic committed to the mission of Catholic education.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Experience in Catholic education or organizational leadership preferred.
To apply or learn more, contact: logan.ahnquist@sccsiowa.org

Highlighted Events

Feb 24: Supply store.
Feb 25: Ice skating at The Landing
Feb 26: Crusader Theater Tryouts. H & S Meeting
Feb 28/Mar 1: Treasure Renewal Weekend at OLV
Mar 3: 7th to Finance Park
Mar 5: 4th to Symphony. 5/8 to AHS musical dress rehearsal. Youth & Family Engagement mtg
Mar 6: Adoration
Mar 6-8: Men’s CEW. “Spring forward” time change
Mar 9/10: Solo/Ensemble
Mar 11: K Vision/Dental. 3rd Vision screening. JFK Reconciliation
Mar 13: Green/White Dress Day. Middle School Youth Night
Mar 14-22: Spring Break

Personal Sharing

No wittiness this weeknd.

Chad

Principal’s Post for February 16, 2026

Posted on February 16, 2026 by csteimle

New/Updated Information

Career Fair To Be Restructured

The annual SCCS 8th grade career fair at St. Ambrose has been cancelled in its present form. There just weren’t enough presenters for our gathering of 170+ students. For this year, we made arrangements for three of the schools to attend Junior Achievement’s career fairs in Muscatine or Clinton. (The remaining option they had did not work for any of our schools, and we, being the primary architect of career fair, decided that JFK could figure out some alternate activity.)

Next year, the four schools will attend JA’s career fair in the QCA. Mrs. Wolf and I attended it a couple of years ago to check it out but liked our more personal way of doing a career fair at SAU. Our future task, thus, will be to determine how we can structure our time at the JA career fair so it’s more productive for students.

We would like to thank those who did volunteer to be presenters at career fair. Perhaps there’s still a way we can take advantage of your willingness to spend time with our students.

Registration for 2026-27

Thanks for the last push to get current students registered for 2026-27. We’re probably down to about 30 families, which is a number that we can reach out to manageably and help get registered individually. Preferred re-enrollment ends on February 20th. After that time, your child will no longer be guaranteed a spot for 2026-27.

A few families are having difficulty using leftover ESA funds to pay registration fees. This issue seems to be more a timing on Odyssey’s part than anything else. Please keep checking periodically in your Odyssey account.

Below are some important dates:

Feb 13: Deadline for Preferred Re-Enrollment of K-7 Students Going into Grades 1-8

After this date, current SCCS families are not guaranteed a spot for next school year

Feb 20: Review of Applications for Preschoolers, Kindergartners, and Students New to Grades 1-8

Week of Feb 23: Verification Letters Distributed for Re-enrollment, Preschoolers, Kindergartners, and New 1-8 Students

Still Relevant

I-Ready Math Requirements

I-Ready Math is an online program we use to better understand each student’s math strengths and learning needs. It begins with a short diagnostic/screener that helps identify what skills a student has mastered and where additional support or challenge is needed. Based on those results, i-Ready provides personalized math lessons that adjust to each child’s level, allowing students to work at an appropriate pace while building confidence and understanding. At school, students currently use i-Ready Math for at least 30 minutes per week as part of their regularly scheduled instructional time. That should be enough time to at least do one i-Ready lesson per week. Students not finishing the lesson at school will have it assigned as homework. In addition, students who scored below benchmark in math at both the fall and winter screenings will be required to work with i-Ready outside of school hours, reinforcing the school/home partnership. Students may always voluntarily do i-Ready lessons at home as well. More information will be mailed the week of January 26th.

OLV Strategic Plan

OLV’s Parish Council passed a new Strategic Plan and moved into the prioritization and implementation phase.

2026-27 K-8 Tuition Rates

Parish supported: $6,930

Non-parish supported: $8,930

2025-26 ESA: $7,988

Estimated 26-27 ESA: $,8,148 The legislators have not approved any increase in funding for any schools yet.

Make Sure ESAs Stay – Take Action Now

Checking Students’ Grades and Missing Work

Important notes:

There are some things that just cannot be done on the app. You will have to use a computer for them.
There is a message that says “Grades disabled by school.” IGNORE this message. It references a certain type of grade and not the standards-referenced grades we are using.

Instructions

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

Mission & Catholic Identity
• Champion and model the Catholic identity of SCCS.
• Ensure Catholic values, teachings, and traditions are integrated into all school
programs, policies, and practices.
• Lead the development and ongoing review of SCCS’s mission, vision, and philosophy.
• Foster a culture of dignity, respect, and spiritual growth for students, families, faculty,
and staff.
Institutional Leadership
• Provide strategic leadership to principals and department heads.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders.
• Represent SCCS across the diocese and broader community.
Operational & Academic Excellence
• Oversee instructional quality, business operations, and system‑wide administration.
• Ensure compliance with all diocesan, state, and federal education guidelines.
• Support continuous improvement and school advancement initiatives.
Stewardship & System Viability
• Collaborate with the Board on long‑range planning and policy implementation.
• Ensure sound fiscal stewardship and budget oversight.
• Lead hiring, supervision, evaluation, and formation of key personnel.
• Promote strong partnerships with parishes, families, and community organizations.

Qualifications
• Practicing Roman Catholic committed to the mission of Catholic education.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Experience in Catholic education or organizational leadership preferred.
To apply or learn more, contact: logan.ahnquist@sccsiowa.org

Highlighted Events

Feb 16: President’s Day. No Classes. ECLC Open. Applebees Dine & Donate.
Feb 18: Ash Wednesday
Feb 19: Jump for JFK Funstation
Feb 20: Pajama Out of Uniform Fundraiser
Feb 20-22: Women’s CEW
Feb 24: Supply store.
Feb 25: Ice skating at The Landing
Feb 26: Crusader Theater Tryouts. H & S Meeting
Feb 28/Mar 1: Treasure Renewal Weekend at OLV
Mar 3: 7th to Finance Park
Mar 5: 4th to Symphony. 5/8 to AHS musical dress rehearsal
Mar 6: Adoration
Mar 6-8: Men’s CEW. “Spring forward” time change
Mar 9/10: Solo/Ensemble
Mar 11: K Vision/Dental. 3rd Vision screening. JFK Reconciliation
Mar 13: Green/White Dress Day.
Mar 14-22: Spring Break

Personal Sharing

I don’t think I could make it as a carnivore. Lynn and I had the carryout for Youth Ministry’s Sweetheart Dinner on Saturday. The salad and vegetable helpings were small, but the three servings of meat styles were huge. So huge that just looking at the big slabs of meat almost made my stomach turn. I need my meat to be ground and indistinguishable!

You can view my Catholic Schools Week address to the parish with the theme, “No Fear: The mighty power of Jesus is fighting for me here” with the following Mass recording. My address starts at about minute 17:30.

Chad

Principal’s Post for February 8, 2026

Posted on February 8, 2026 by csteimle

New/Updated Information

Preschool Open House and Kindergarten Round-Up this Week

JFK Kindergarten and Preschool Flyer, pdf

Registration for 2026-27

About 57% of current PK-8 students are registered for next school year. Preferred re-enrollment ends on February 20th. After that time, your child will no longer be guaranteed a spot for 2026-27.

Below are some important dates:

Jan 28: Re-enrollment and application

Current K-11th grade students may re-enroll for 26-27. Those who have funds in their ESA accounts may use it for registration fees this year.
Students who will be kindergartners and pre-schoolers in 2026-27 and students new to SCCS schools may apply. Determination of acceptance occurs later

Feb 9: Preschool Open House

5:30-7:00 p.m.
Families are encouraged to complete the online application BEFORE this date.

Feb 12: JFK’s Kindergarten Round-up

6:00-7:30 p.m.
Future kindergartners should attend
Families are encouraged to complete the online application BEFORE this date.

Feb 13: Deadline for Preferred Re-Enrollment of K-7 Students Going into Grades 1-8

After this date, current SCCS families are not guaranteed a spot for next school year

Feb 20: Review of Applications for Preschoolers, Kindergartners, and Students New to Grades 1-8

Week of Feb 23: Verification Letters Distributed for Re-enrollment, Preschoolers, Kindergartners, and New 1-8 Students

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

Mission & Catholic Identity
• Champion and model the Catholic identity of SCCS.
• Ensure Catholic values, teachings, and traditions are integrated into all school
programs, policies, and practices.
• Lead the development and ongoing review of SCCS’s mission, vision, and philosophy.
• Foster a culture of dignity, respect, and spiritual growth for students, families, faculty,
and staff.
Institutional Leadership
• Provide strategic leadership to principals and department heads.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders.
• Represent SCCS across the diocese and broader community.
Operational & Academic Excellence
• Oversee instructional quality, business operations, and system‑wide administration.
• Ensure compliance with all diocesan, state, and federal education guidelines.
• Support continuous improvement and school advancement initiatives.
Stewardship & System Viability
• Collaborate with the Board on long‑range planning and policy implementation.
• Ensure sound fiscal stewardship and budget oversight.
• Lead hiring, supervision, evaluation, and formation of key personnel.
• Promote strong partnerships with parishes, families, and community organizations.

Qualifications
• Practicing Roman Catholic committed to the mission of Catholic education.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Experience in Catholic education or organizational leadership preferred.
To apply or learn more, contact: logan.ahnquist@sccsiowa.org

Still Relevant

I-Ready Math Requirements

I-Ready Math is an online program we use to better understand each student’s math strengths and learning needs. It begins with a short diagnostic/screener that helps identify what skills a student has mastered and where additional support or challenge is needed. Based on those results, i-Ready provides personalized math lessons that adjust to each child’s level, allowing students to work at an appropriate pace while building confidence and understanding. At school, students currently use i-Ready Math for at least 30 minutes per week as part of their regularly scheduled instructional time. That should be enough time to at least do one i-Ready lesson per week. Students not finishing the lesson at school will have it assigned as homework. In addition, students who scored below benchmark in math at both the fall and winter screenings will be required to work with i-Ready outside of school hours, reinforcing the school/home partnership. Students may always voluntarily do i-Ready lessons at home as well. More information will be mailed the week of January 26th.

OLV Strategic Plan

OLV’s Parish Council passed a Strategic Plan on Tuesday. They have moved into the prioritization and implementation phase.

2026-27 K-8 Tuition Rates

Parish supported: $6,930

Non-parish supported: $8,930

2025-26 ESA: $7,988

Estimated 26-27 ESA: $,8,148 The legislators have not approved any increase in funding for any schools yet.

Make Sure ESAs Stay – Take Action Now

Career Fair Presenters Needed – Numbers Low

Presenters are needed for the annual SCCS 8th grade career fair at St. Ambrose. At this time in previous years, we had nearly 32 spots filled. This year we’re only at about 19 presenters and may have to start thinking about the viability of the career fair this year. This year’s fair is scheduled for Friday, March 6th. We are looking for people in all types of professions: sales, plumbing, nursing and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing, firefighting, law enforcement, child care services, education, military, entrepreneurs, hair care, office management, insurance, accounting, etc.

Presenters are asked for a time commitment of 8:15am-1:30pm. We ask you to prepare a booth with information about your career (job duties, professional expectations, hours, required education/training, technology, general salary range, likes and dislikes, etc). We are requiring that you bring a hands-on activity/demonstration for students. The students will rotate in groups and complete a career questionnaire about each booth they visit. A thank you lunch for all presenters will be provided. Additionally, all presenters are invited to join us for the celebration of Mass at 1:30 in the Christ the King Chapel on campus.

If you are interested in being a presenter or know of someone that we should contact, please reach out to Emma Wolf at JFK: emma.wolf@olvjfkmail.com.

Checking Students’ Grades and Missing Work

Important notes:

There are some things that just cannot be done on the app. You will have to use a computer for them.
There is a message that says “Grades disabled by school.” IGNORE this message. It references a certain type of grade and not the standards-referenced grades we are using.

Instructions

Highlighted Events

Feb 9: PS Open House
Feb 12: Kindergarten Round-Up. Youth & Family Engagement Mtg
Feb 13: Red, White, Pink Dress Day. 2 Hr Early Dismissal. No 4/5 YO am/pm PS Classes
Feb 16: President’s Day. No Classes. ECLC Open. Applebees Dine & Donate.
Feb 18: Ash Wednesday
Feb 19: Jump for JFK Funstation
Feb 20: Pajama Out of Uniform Fundraiser
Feb 20-22: Women’s CEW

Personal Sharing

Chad

Principal’s Post for January 25, 2026

Posted on January 25, 2026 by csteimle

New/Updated Information

Registration for 2026-27

Online registration/application for the 2026-27 school year opens on Wednesday afternoon. Updated directions will be posted to the front page of our website, www.olvjfk.com. There are different directions for those who are “re-enrolling” (“Log in”) and those who are entirely new to SCCS (“Get Started”). Online registration/application opens on January 28th at about 3:00 p.m.

Below are some important dates:

Jan 28: Re-enrollment and application

Current K-11th grade students may re-enroll for 26-27
Students who will be kindergartners and pre-schoolers in 2026-27 and students new to SCCS schools may apply. Determination of acceptance occurs later

Feb 9: Preschool Open House

5:30-7:00 p.m.
Families are encouraged to complete the online application BEFORE this date.

Feb 12: JFK’s Kindergarten Round-up

6:00-7:30 p.m.
Future kindergartners should attend
Families are encouraged to complete the online application BEFORE this date.

Feb 13: Deadline for Preferred Re-Enrollment of K-7 Students Going into Grades 1-8

After this date, current SCCS families are not guaranteed a spot for next school year

Feb 20: Review of Applications for Preschoolers, Kindergartners, and Students New to Grades 1-8

Week of Feb 23: Verification Letters Distributed for Re-enrollment, Preschoolers, Kindergartners, and New 1-8 Students

Still Relevant

Catholic Schools Week 2026

Mon, Jan 26

Dodgeball for Diapers fundraiser by grades 3-8
K-2 Special classroom activities
Dress: Hat day with athletic attire

Tues, Jan 27

Talent show in the afternoon
- K class act begins at 12:00. Individual/group acts will follow but be grouped by the type of act rather than grade level. Guests are welcome, but we cannot anticipate the time of the performers. Staff will likely go last.
- Students may also bring a pillow to sit upon
Dress: Prince/Princess Day

Wed, Jan 28

All school Mass
Bring an adult guest to lunch day
- K: 10:40-11:10
- 3/4: 11:10-11:40
- 1/2: 11:40-12:10
- 5/6: 12:10-12:40
- 7/8: 12:40-1:10
- The child’s lunch account will be charged for the adult meal. Just make sure there are funds in your child’s lunch account; no separate funds are needed for the adults.
- After lunch, students and their adult guests are welcome to attend the book fair.
- Parents may take their children home for the day after lunch but must check their children out through the office and let the homeroom teacher know as well.
Dress: Spirit wear or green/white out of uniform (pants can be out of uniform too)
Ice Skating @ The Landing, 5:00-9:00 p.m. H & S receives a donation based upon the number of attendees. (No, you don’t have to be there for the full four hours.)

Thurs, Jan 29

Mass at AHS for students in grades 2-12 in SCCS schools
- The first set of buses will leave JFK around 8:45. Mass will conclude around 10:30. The last students should be back at JFK by around 11:30. There is no separate permission slip as long as you gave permission for your child to attend field trips during the online registration last spring.
Drop Everything and Read or homeroom team building activities
Dress: Take pride in your uniform day. All students in SCCS will be in dress code (even those upper grade students who may have PE today)

Fri, Jan 30

8th grade vs. staff volleyball games with other grades cheering them on or doing special activities determined by teachers
Dress: Homeroom color choice
Snow Tubing @ Snowstar, 6:00-9:00 p.m. H & S receives a donation based upon the number of attendees

Don’t Pay Out of Pocket for the 2nd Semester

Action is needed by the end of the month. There are still a few families that have not yet authorized the transfer of ESA funds for tuition for the second semester. If you have not yet done so, please log in to your Odyssey account and approve the tuition. It should only take a few minutes. Then, the State of Iowa will be able to pay Scott County Catholic Schools (SCCS) for your students’ tuition. This needs to be done by January 31, 2026. Failure to take action will result in you being responsible for the tuition without the benefit of state funding; you will have to pay it yourself.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please call the SCCS business office at (563) 326-5313.

I-Ready Math Requirements

I-Ready Math is an online program we use to better understand each student’s math strengths and learning needs. It begins with a short diagnostic/screener that helps identify what skills a student has mastered and where additional support or challenge is needed. Based on those results, i-Ready provides personalized math lessons that adjust to each child’s level, allowing students to work at an appropriate pace while building confidence and understanding. At school, students currently use i-Ready Math for at least 30 minutes per week as part of their regularly scheduled instructional time. That should be enough time to at least do one i-Ready lesson per week. Students not finishing the lesson at school will have it assigned as homework. In addition, students who scored below benchmark in math at both the fall and winter screenings will be required to work with i-Ready outside of school hours, reinforcing the school/home partnership. Students may always voluntarily do i-Ready lessons at home as well. More information will be mailed the week of January 26th.

Make Sure ESAs Stay – Take Action Now

The opposition to ESAs may be fierce this legislative session. Campaigns by Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement and like political action groups with messages like “Our Kids Deserve More than Voucher Schemes” and “Now, out-of-state billionaires and local politicians…sold us out. But together, we can take back what’s ours” are being used. Public school boards like Cedar Rapids, Keokuk, and Bennett are endorsing Public School Strong to promote the phasing out of ESAs.

You can make your voice heard too to make sure ESAs stay. The Iowa Alliance for Choice in Education (Iowa ACE) is working hard to ensure families have access to the best educational opportunities for their children. Please take a moment to complete the petition at the link below:
https://www.iowaace.org/take-action/

Please consider doing even more through connections with Parents for Educational Choice by Iowa ACE.

JA Finance Park Volunteers Needed

We are in need of at least two more volunteers for 7th grade’s capstone activity at Junior Achievement’s Finance Park facility. Finance Park is the capstone program for personal finance and career exploration held at JA’s new facility across the river. Volunteers are needed from about 8:30-1:30, with the first part of the time being an overview and training for the adults. Although we do Finance Park with 7th graders, the volunteers are not limited to 7th grade parents. Finance Park is Tuesday, March 3rd. If you can help, please contact Emily Thomas (emily.thomas@olvjfkmail.com).

Career Fair Presenters Needed

Presenters are needed for the annual SCCS 8th grade career fair at St. Ambrose. This year’s fair is Friday, March 6th. We are looking for people in all types of professions: sales, plumbing, nursing and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing, firefighting, law enforcement, child care services, education, military, entrepreneurs, hair care, office management, insurance, accounting, etc.

If you are interested in being a presenter or know of someone that we should contact, please reach out to Emma Wolf at JFK: emma.wolf@olvjfkmail.com.

Checking Students’ Grades and Missing Work

Important notes:

There are some things that just cannot be done on the app. You will have to use a computer for them.
There is a message that says “Grades disabled by school.” IGNORE this message. It references a certain type of grade and not the standards-referenced grades we are using.

Instructions

Highlighted Events

Jan 26-29: CSW Activities
Jan 27: K-8 Parent/Teacher Drop In Conferences (4:30-7:30 p.m.)
Jan 28: Re-enrollment/registration/new application link goes live.
- There are different directions for those who are “re-enrolling” (“Log in”) and those who are entirely new to SCCS (“Get Started”).
- Current K-11th grade students may re-enroll for 26-27
- Students who will be kindergartners and pre-schoolers in 2026-27 may apply. Determination of acceptance occurs later
Jan 29: 4/5 YO PS Scheduled Conferences (4-7 p.m.)
Jan 30: 4/5 YO PS Scheduled Confs (7:30-3:30). Middle School Youth Night.
Feb 2: In-service. No Classes. ECLC Closed

Personal Sharing

Lynn and I spent a few days in Kansas City last week meeting our first grandchild, but it seemed my daughter’s dog was the happiest to see us; he enjoyed all the snuggle time he could get! My daughter and her husband are proud parents and have things well under control. Lynn and I are overjoyed!

Lynn and I did run on an errand to Target one afternoon last week. I probably haven’t been in a Target for a couple of years, and I can easily see how enticing it is. There’s a reason why there’s no such thing as a quick in/out trip to Target — they have everything, including things I didn’t even know I wanted!

I spoke at all the Masses this weekend. While I was mentioning record JFK enrollment and being the largest K-8 Catholic school in our diocese, I was also thinking, “Wouldn’t it be nice to also see record numbers of students at Masses?”

Chad