Category: Principal’s Post

Civic Oration Speeches Rounds 1 and 2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Substitutes Still Needed

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

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

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

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

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

For more information about substituting, please contact me.

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

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

Highlighted Events

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

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

Enough Reading Material?

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

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

Christmas Project

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

Chad

JFK GROWS Students of the Month

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

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

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

Substitutes Still Needed

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

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

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

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

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

For more information about substituting, please contact me.

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

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

Highlighted Events

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

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

What’s with Wednesdays?

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

Chad

Sacrament of Reconciliation This Week

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

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

Substitutes Still Needed

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

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

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

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

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

For more information about substituting, please contact me.

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

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

Highlighted Events

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

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

What Did  I Do?

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

Chad

Special Early Dismissal on November 23

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

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

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

Highlighted Events

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

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

What Will I Do?

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

Chad

Butter Braid Bread and Nothing Bundt Cakes

Music Boosters’ Butter Braid Bread delivery is on Friday.  There is also a “pop up” sale from 2:30-5:00 p.m. by Nothing Bundt Cake.  The sweets and treats abound!

Mississippi Valley Student Tuition Organization

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

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

Special Early Dismissal on November 23

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

Highlighted Events

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

• Nov 14:  Music Boosters
• Nov 17:  8th to AHS
• Nov 18:  Butter Braid Delivery.  Mock Trial Regional Competition at SAU.  Nothing Bundt Cakes sales.
• Nov 21:  2nd Grade Sacrament preparation.  Crusader Choir Concert
• Nov 22:  Green/Camo Out of Uniform Dress Day
• Nov 23:  2 hr early dismissal (12:40).  No PM PS
• Nov 24:  Thanksgiving break.  No Classes.  ECLC closed.
• Nov 27:  First Sunday of Advent
• Dec 1:  First Reconciliation
• Dec 2:  JFK Reconciliation during the school day
• Dec 4:  Christmas Cantata by the OLV adult choir (2:00 p.m.)
• Dec 5:  3rd Grade Gingerbread Houses
• Dec 6:  3/4 Christmas show
• Dec 8:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception.  Dental & Vision screening for K, 1, 3, 5, 7.
• Dec 9:  4/5 Yr Old PS Family Events
• Dec 12:  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
• Dec 13:  K-2 Christmas program
• Dec 14:  3 Yr Old PS Family Event
• Dec 15:  Civic Oration Final Round.  Band Concert
• Dec 16.  Red/Green/White Dress Day.  2 Hr Early Dismissal (12:40).  No PM PS
• Dec 17 – Jan 1:  Christmas break

Chad

Highlighted Events

November and December are going to be busy!

• Nov 8:  Skate Night
• Nov 11:  Civic Oration Rough Drafts Due.  Veterans’ Day (No buses).  Crusader Theater
• Nov 14:  Music Boosters
• Nov 17:  8th to AHS
• Nov 18:  Butter Braid Delivery.  Mock Trial Regional Competition at SAU.  Nothing Bundt Cakes sales.
• Nov 21:  2nd Grade Sacrament preparation.  Crusader Choir Concert
• Nov 23:  2 hr early dismissal (12:40).  No PM PS
• Nov 24:  Thanksgiving break.  No Classes.  ECLC closed.
• Nov 27:  First Sunday of Advent
• Dec 1:  First Reconciliation
• Dec 2:  JFK Reconciliation
• Dec 5:  3rd Grade Gingerbread Houses
• Dec 6:  3/4 Christmas show
• Dec 8:  Feast of the Immaculate Conception.  Dental & Vision screening for K, 1, 3, 5, 7.
• Dec 9:  4/5 Yr Old PS Family Events
• Dec 12:  Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
• Dec 13:  K-2 Christmas program
• Dec 14:  3 Yr Old PS Family Event
• Dec 15:  Civic Oration Final Round.  Band Concert
• Dec 16.  Red/Green/White Dress Day.  2 Hr Early Dismissal (12:40).  No PM PS
• Dec 17 – Jan 1:  Christmas break

Chad

Christmas Bazaar:  Volunteer Opportunities for 7th/8th Graders

JFK GROWS Students of the Month

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

• Kindergarten:  Rey H.
  • Rey is always positive and “smiley!”  She comes into the building each morning with a smile on her face ready to learn. She is a hard worker and looks for opportunities everyday to help friends and teachers.
• 1st Grade:  Harleigh D.
  • Harleigh is kind and respectful to both her classmates and teachers.  As an example of her kindness, she has given up her seat at the writing table to another classmate and happily went to another table.
• 2nd Grade:  Lucas K.
  • Lucas is a sweet, gentle soul who always looks out for his classmates. He does his best and gives great effort all day, everyday. He always shines his light bright!
• 3rd Grade:  Gracelyn S.
  • Gracelyn is an excellent student who participates in all areas of third grade and is always eager to learn more. Gracelyn knows the meaning of effort and responsibility. She is a good friend and recognizes when someone needs a lending hand and kind words. She is a person that puts a smile on your face.
• 4th Grade:  Levi F.
  • Levi is always respectful of both adults and his peers.  He is welcoming and includes all who would like to join activities during recess.  Levi is a great example of someone who works hard and participates in class.  He is a great member of our school community.
• 5th Grade:  Kaleah J.
  • Kaleah is polite, patient, and kind. She works very hard at school and tries her best. Kaleah is respectful of others and follows the JFK Difference.
• 6th Grade:  Maya H.
  • Maya is very respectful and follows classroom rules and procedures. She is always willing to help those around her.
• 7th Grade:  Luke W.
  • Luke’s year began with some struggles and frustrations.  However, he turned things around and started asking questions and taking greater control over his learning.  His whole approach seemed to change and his positive attitude is now a model for middle school.
• 8th Grade: Payten P.
  • Payten comes into class with a smile and is always willing to learn. She asks questions, follows directions, and has a positive attitude in class. When she is absent, she is proactive in figuring out what she will need to make up and finishes missing assignments in a timely manner.

• Oct 31:  Black/Orange Dress Day (Students can be out of uniform if wearing black and/or orange).  All Saints Vigil Mass.
• Nov 1:  Butter Braid Sales End.  All Saints Day all school Mass and Parade of Saints (8:15).  Holy Day of Obligation with Masses at OLV at 7 am, 12 pm, and 6 pm
• Nov 2:  All Souls Remembrance Mass
• Nov 3:  No classes.  Parent/teacher conferences.  ECLC open
• Nov 4:  No classes.  ECLC open
• Nov 5/6:  OLV Bazaar
• Nov 8:  Skate Night
• Nov 11:  Civic Oration Rough Drafts Due.  Veterans’ Day (No buses).  Crusader Theater
• Nov 14:  Music Boosters
• Nov 17:  8th to AHS
• Nov 18:  Butter Braid Delivery.  Mock Trial Regional Competition at SAU.  Nothing Bundt Cakes sales.
• Nov 21:  2nd Grade Sacrament preparation.  Crusader Choir Concert
• Nov 23:  2 hr early dismissal (12:40)
• Nov 24:  Thanksgiving break.  No Classes.  ECLC closed.
• Dec 17 – Jan 1:  Christmas break

Chad

Iowa Opus Honor Choir Auditions

Congratulations to the following students who auditioned through a state-wide, recorded session for the Iowa Opus Honor Choir:  Charlie A, Mary V, Genevieve M, Molly F, and Maggie A.  We are so proud of their hard work!

First Graders Building the Human Body in PE

Volunteers Still Needed to Set Up the Stage

We are putting up the stage in the parish center in two phases this year for Crusader Theater.  The base will be set up on October 24th at 6:00 p.m. and should take about 1 – 1 1/2 hours.  About 6-8 people are needed for setting up the base.  On October 29th at 9:00 a.m., the walls will be assembled.  About 4-6 people are needed for about an hour.

• Oct 24:  In-service, no classes.  ECLC open
• Oct 25:  Red Out Day for Red Ribbon Week.  7th to AHS.  Fire Dept Visit for K-3 in the church
• Oct 26:  AHS Info Knight
• Oct 28:  JFK Student Hunger Drive collection ends.  Step It Up prizes distributed.
• Oct 29:  Trunk or Treat.  Monster Mash Dance.  Double D Diner on site
• Oct 31:  Black/Orange Dress Day.  All Saints Vigil Mass.
• Nov 1:  Butter Braid Sales End.  All Saints Day all school Mass and Parade of Saints
• Nov 2:  All Souls Remembrance Mass
• Nov 3:  No classes.  Parent/teacher conferences.  ECLC open
• Nov 4:  No classes.  ECLC open
• Nov 5/6:  OLV Bazaar
• Nov 8:  Skate Night
• Nov 11:  Civic Oration Rough Drafts Due.  Veterans’ Day (No buses).  Crusader Theater
• Nov 12:  H & S Babysitting for Christmas shopping
• Nov 14:  Music Boosters
• Nov 17:  8th to AHS
• Nov 18:  Butter Braid Delivery.  Mock Trial Regional Competition at SAU.  Nothing Bundt Cakes sales.
• Nov 21:  2nd Grade Sacrament preparation.  Crusader Choir Concert
• Nov 23:  2 hr early dismissal (12:40)
• Nov 24:  Thanksgiving break.  No Classes.  ECLC closed.

Chad

Pumpkin Drop

Eighth graders dropped their pumpkins on Friday.  Nearly all of them survived!

NET Retreats for 7th/8th Graders

NET team members will conduct retreats for 7th and 8th graders this week.  The 8th grade retreat is Tuesday, October 18 from 4:30 – 8:30 PM.  On Wednesday, October 19, from 3:00 – 7:00 PM, we will have the 7th grade retreat.  NET team members come from all across the country and are trained and based out of the diocese of Minneapolis.

Volunteers Needed to Set Up the Stage

We are putting up the stage in the parish center in two phases this year for Crusader Theater.  The base will be set up on October 24th at 6:00 p.m. and should take about 1 – 1 1/2 hours.  About 6-8 people are needed for setting up the base.  On October 29th at 9:00 a.m., the walls will be assembled.  About 4-6 people are needed for about an hour.

• Oct 18/19:  Retreats for 7th/8th graders after school
• Oct 21:  End of 1st qtr.  Special dismissal at 12:40.  No afternoon PS classes
• Oct 21:  Pink Out Day for Breast Cancer Awareness
• Oct 24:  In-service, no classes.  ECLC open
• Oct 25:  Red Out Day for Red Ribbon Week
• Oct 26:  AHS Info Knight
• Oct 28:  JFK Student Hunger Drive collection ends
• Oct 29:  Trunk or Treat.  Monster Mash Dance.  Double D Diner on site
• Oct 31:  Black/Orange Dress Day
• Nov 1:  Butter Braid Sales End.  All Saints Day all school Mass
• Nov 3:  No classes.  Parent/teacher conferences.  ECLC open
• Nov 4:  No classes.  ECLC open
• Nov 18:  Butter Braid Delivery

Chad

Clergy Appreciation Day

Sunday was Clergy Appreciation Day.  One of the best ways to show your appreciation is to “Come to the Table” and celebrate Mass with them.  Mass is not the same without you!

Pumpkins Are Ready

The pumpkins have arrived for Friday’s pumpkin drop in one of JFK’s middle school science classes.

NET Retreats for 7th/8th Graders & Housing Still Needed

Overnight housing is still needed for NET team members.  As of last week, there were only three host families.  NET team members need housing the night of October 18th.  Host families are requested to house a minimum of two team members of the same gender. These college-aged young people will have sleeping bags, mats, pillows, towels and toiletries and are fine with sleeping on the floor, couches or air mattresses. They do request shower access.  Host families often gain much from the presence of these energetic, faith-filled young people!  You do not need a 7th or 8th grader to host NET team members.  If you are interested, please contact Kaye Meyers at davolvcre@diodav.org or 563-391-8384.

NET team members will conduct retreats for 7th and 8th graders.  The 8th grade retreat is Tuesday, October 18 from 4:30 – 8:30 PM.  On Wednesday, October 19, from 3:00 – 7:00 PM, we will have the 7th grade retreat.  NET team members come from all across the country and are trained and based out of the diocese of Minneapolis.

Future Lady Knights Basketball

FUTURE LADY KNIGHTS basketball registration is beginning.  There is a registration night on Sunday, October 9, 2022, at Noon-1:00pm, and an evening on Wednesday, October12, 2022, at 6:30pm – 7:30pm at Assumption High’s big gym.  FLK is for girls in 3^rd – 8^th grades who are interested in attending Assumption High and who want to be part of our developmental and competitive basketball feeder program.  Registration, consent and other forms and fee information can be emailed to you or are available the night of registration.

If you have questions  call Debbie Giganti (359-3085) OR  Joe Creen (343 0781) OR  email at creenlaw@gmail.com

AHS Pep Assembly

It sure was nice to have an AHS homecoming pep assembly at JFK again.  We haven’t had one since the fall of 2019!  Below are JFK graduates who were in the visiting AHS pep band

Other Upcoming Events

• Oct 10:  Band/Music Butter Braid Bread Sales Begin
• Oct 11:  Pack the AHS Gym for volleyball, 5-6:30
• Oct 11:  H & S meeting, 6:30, PC
• Oct 14/15:  JFK night at Marco’s Pizza
• Oct 16:  Ignite Sunday
• Oct 21:  End of 1st qtr.  Special dismissal at 12:45.  No afternoon PS classes
• Oct 24:  In-service, no classes.  ECLC open
• Oct 29:  Trunk or Treat.  Monster Mash Dance
• Nov 1:  Butter Braid Sales End
• Nov 18:  Butter Braid Delivery

Chad