Category: Principal’s Post

Getting Ready for Advent

The other day I overheard someone say that she had to buy some candles for the “real” Advent wreath.  I had to chuckle as it doesn’t really seem to me to be Advent any more until we get out the “Advent wreath” made by my daughter Caitlin when she was in kindergarten at JFK.  That was thirteen years ago!

Only in a Catholic school.

Busy Calendar

From now until January 2nd, there will be a whirlwind of activities.  Please see the website calendars.  There’s too many events to list them all!

Advent is also a perfect time to rededicate ourselves to weekend Mass attendance and the Sacrament of Reconciliation.  Please see the bulletin for Reconciliation offerings by clicking HERE or using the following url:  https://www.olvjfk.com/olv/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/11/10328054A-112617.pdf

Victory Vouchers Are Going Online

Need gift cards for the holidays?  Want to use gift cards to make your holiday purchases AND support OLV and JFK at the same time?  Want to receive credit on your tuition?  Victory Vouchers has you covered!

• You purchase a gift card at face value from OLV, meaning there is no additional cost to you — buy a $25 gift card for $25.
• The parish is able to purchase the cards at reduced prices yielding a donation to the parish
• You also receive a 2% credit for the program of your choice (school tuition, youth ministry, Faith Formation fees, or the OLV Foundation)

Victory Vouchers has two convenient purchasing options:  paper orders and, now, ONLINE ordering.

Gift cards can be purchased in person in the gathering space on Sundays from 7:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. or at the parish office on week days from 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.  Cards are stocked for 40+ retailers, and nearly 7,000 are available online or can also be ordered in person.

To enroll in online ordering, click HERE for the Victory Voucher page on our website or stop by the Victory Voucher store that gets set up in the gathering space each Sunday.  For other questions, please contact Elaine Kopf at victoryvouchers@gmail.com

JFK Spirit Night Fundraiser at Chuck E. Cheese

Our Chuck E. Cheese Family Night fundraiser is Wednesday, November 29th from 3-9 pm.  We will get back 15% of all JFK sales that night. That includes all food, merchandise and token deals with the mention of JFK.  Coupon forms (reminders) and a sticker for 10 free tokens will be coming the day of the event, and Chuck E. Cheese will be in the JFK parking lot at dismissal time that afternoon.

Ho Ho Ho!  The Santa Claus Chronicles

Ho Ho Ho!  The Santa Claus Chronicles children’s workshop and play  will be presented by Assumption students on December 9th and 10th in the AHS auditorium.  Registration begins at 9:30 a.m with the workshop for 1st – 6th graders beginning at 10:00.  The $30 registration fee includes workshops, lunch, children’s t-shirt, and admission to the play at 2:00.  The registration form was emailed two weeks ago and is available by clicking HERE.

Directory Reminder

Please remember that the JFK Home & School Directory is not to be used for solicitation purposes.

Memories in Decorations

After I wrote about the Advent wreath, I looked up and realized that this part of our house is all about family and memories:

• The snow “people” were made by me dad using scrap wood.
• The lighted glass block on the hearth was made by my sister and her husband.
• The tree is decorated with homemade bows and wooden ornaments purchased from a church bazaar one per year per child and personalized with each child’s name.
• Hanging above the window is one of four “swags” with an ornament for each year of our children’s lives.  The one in the picture is my oldest daughter’s — it has a Barney ornament.
• Santa and Mrs. Claus on the right side of the mantel were made by Lynn’s grandmother.  The set on the left are an example of sets Lynn is now making for each of her siblings and nieces and nephews.
• The sleeping Santa in the middle of the mantel is from my childhood.
• The picture above the mantel is our newest addition.  It’s the side of a decorative Christmas bag that we put in a frame.
• And, of course, there are six stockings with our children’s being personalized.

Don’t worry, Fr. Jake.  Another part of our house has all the religious elements, including five Nativity sets.  Two Nativity sets are from Lynn’s childhood, and one is from a dear friend of Lynn’s from when she was in Mexico.  The Nativity set that my mother made and our children played with when they were growing up is currently not set up.  It is made with plastic canvas covered in yarn, and our dogs have been chewing on things lately.  I’d hate to have to ask my mother to make a new wiseman for us (again!)

I hope your holidays are filled with pleasant memories, and you make new ones with your children this season.

There Is a Difference in Education

• You know it’s a special place when siblings give each other a quick hug as they pass on the way in/out to recess.  (And, sometimes it’s the older kids that initiate it!)
• From a JA teacher:  “I can honestly say that in the 3 plus years of volunteering in the classroom your group was the most engaged and well-behaved group that I have worked with! They were absolutely wonderful, and it was such an enjoyable experience for me.”
• From a kindergartner on the way into the school performance of Crusader Theater:  “This is going to be BIIIG!”
• From a 2nd grader on the way into the school performance of Crusader Theater:  “This is going to be the best one ever!”

Survey Underway

JFK conducts a detailed “school climate” survey of parents, 3rd-8th grade students, and JFK staff about every 2-3 years.  It is time for our 2017 survey.  Information is used from the survey to celebrate our successes and to allow focus on areas for growth.  The open-ended questions are particularly beneficial for these purposes.  Please complete the survey before Thanksgiving (and we get too busy with the holidays).  The link to the parent survey has been sent via email.

Home & School Meeting

One of the most exciting discussions from last week’s Home & School meeting dealt with the possibility of a plant/flower sale in the spring.  While it might start smaller this year, those present at the meeting felt it might become something big enough to replace the magazine sale!  Imagine a new fund-raiser big enough to meet all of the current obligations and do something real big in a couple of years, like replace all the wood playground equipment that is slowly being pulled out as it continues to deteriorate after more than 25 years of use.

Advent is Perfect Time to Rededicate Ourselves to Weekend Mass Attendance

Weekend Mass attendance at OLV has seemed rather low lately.  Attending Sunday/Saturday Mass is one of the precepts of the Church:

• Attend Mass on Sundays and on holy days of obligation.  (Attending the majority of those Masses here at OLV ensures that the parish and families develop their relationship together as disciples of Christ.)
• Confess one’s sins at least once per year.
• Receive Holy Communion at least once per year, during the Easter season.
• Observe the days of fast and abstinence.
• Provide for the needs of the Church.  (This support includes the parish. The use of envelopes or electronic funds transfer should be used by OLV registered and participating members to facilitate this obligation.  If this obligation is too much of a hardship, an individualized plan for donated services/voluntarism may be agreed upon.)

Using a very generous estimate of 35-40 K-8 students at the 9:00 a.m. Mass this weekend and assuming the same numbers at the other three Masses, including the 7:00 a.m. Mass, which typically has fewer than twelve K-8 students, one could arrive at an estimate of 140-160 K-8 students at OLV this weekend.  That range would translate into about 41% – 48% of the JFK students who are OLV parishioners at Mass at OLV this weekend.

Advent, which begins December 3rd, is a perfect time to rededicate ourselves to weekend Mass attendance.

JFK Spirit Night Fundraiser at Chuck E. Cheese

Our Chuck E. Cheese Family Night fundraiser is Wednesday, November 29th from 3-9 pm.  We will get back 15% of all JFK sales that night. That includes all food, merchandise and token deals with the mention of JFK.  Coupon forms (reminders) and a sticker for 10 free tokens will be coming the day of the event, and Chuck E. Cheese will be in the JFK parking lot at dismissal time that afternoon.

Ho Ho Ho!  The Santa Claus Chronicles

Ho Ho Ho!  The Santa Claus Chronicles children’s workshop and play  will be presented by Assumption students on December 9th and 10th in the AHS auditorium.  Registration begins at 9:30 a.m with the workshop for 1st – 6th graders beginning at 10:00.  The $30 registration fee includes workshops, lunch, children’s t-shirt, and admission to the play at 2:00.  The registration form was emailed last week and is available by clicking HERE.

Directory Reminder

Please remember that the JFK Home & School Directory is not to be used for solicitation purposes.

Building Usage

The use of the school building and parish property on Sundays before 12:00 p.m. (noon) is restricted for activities of the worshipping community in sacraments, liturgies, spiritual formation programs, Church life, pastoral events, and educational activities of the Church.  The JFK building, gym, and parish center are reserved for Wednesday faith formation programming a half hour before sessions begin through a half hour after sessions conclude, unless special programming warrants otherwise.

There Is a Difference in Education

• From a JA teacher:  “I can honestly say that in the 3 plus years of volunteering in the classroom your group was the most engaged and well-behaved group that I have worked with! They were absolutely wonderful, and it was such an enjoyable experience for me.”
• From a kindergartner on the way into the school performance of Crusader Theater:  “This is going to be BIIIG!”
• From a 2nd grader on the way into the school performance of Crusader Theater:  “This is going to be the best one ever!”
• You know it’s a special place when siblings give each other a quick hug as they pass on the way in/out to recess.  (And, sometimes it’s the older kids that initiate it!)

Upcoming Events

Please review the calendars on our website.  They are revised on a weekly basis, if not more often.  Below are SOME of the upcoming events:

• Nov 13:  Skate Night.  Optional band field trip to the University of Iowa Band Extravaganza
• Nov 16:  Home & School
• Nov 17:  Blue Out Dress Day for JDRF
• Nov 18:  Mock Trial
• Nov 22-24:  Thanksgiving Break.  ECLC open on Nov 22nd.

My G.R.O.W Card

Even I can receive a G.R.O.W. card!  7W gave me a G.R.O.W. card for cleaning off the tops of lockers.  G.R.O.W. cards are part of our Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support system.

Scott County Catholic Schools

Pastors, board presidents, and administrators of Scott County Catholic schools and representatives from the AHS Foundation (which also operates the financial assistance program for Scott County Catholic schools and has agreed to pay for strategic planning) met last week.  They agreed to pursue a consultant/consulting firm that could help determine how Catholic school education in Scott County can be made stronger and meet the needs for the future.  A sub-group was formed to identify one or two options for the consultants.  We anticipate that the consultant will utilize several focus groups and surveys after Christmas.

Mass Attendance Seems Low Lately

Weekend Mass attendance at OLV has seemed rather low lately.  Attending Sunday/Saturday Mass is one of the precepts of the Church:

• Attend Mass on Sundays and on holy days of obligation.  (Attending the majority of those Masses here at OLV ensures that the parish and families develop their relationship together as disciples of Christ.)
• Confess one’s sins at least once per year.
• Receive Holy Communion at least once per year, during the Easter season.
• Observe the days of fast and abstinence.
• Provide for the needs of the Church.  (This support includes the parish. The use of envelopes or electronic funds transfer should be used by OLV registered and participating members to facilitate this obligation.  If this obligation is too much of a hardship, an individualized plan for donated services/voluntarism may be agreed upon.)

Here’s a couple of interesting examples from this weekend:

• We had nearly 100% attendance of 7th/8th graders at Crusader Theater on Thursday and Friday evenings.  After subtracting about 15% of the students who are either members of another Catholic parish or are of another religious denomination, there still should probably be about 80 or more JFK 7th/8th graders at Mass this weekend.  At the 9:00 a.m. Mass at OLV, there were probably less than ten.
• There were about four K-2nd graders who attended the Children’s Liturgy of the Word at the 9:00 a.m. Mass.  While utilizing this opportunity is not a requirement, one might have expected more than four from a parish with approximately 140 children in the K-2 grade span, including both JFK and Faith Formation students.

I hope there were more families at the other Masses at OLV, or families were able to attend Mass at other parishes!

Building Usage

The use of the school building and parish property on Sundays before 12:00 p.m. (noon) is restricted for activities of the worshipping community in sacraments, liturgies, spiritual formation programs, Church life, pastoral events, and educational activities of the Church.  The JFK building, gym, and parish center are reserved for Wednesday faith formation programming a half hour before sessions begin through a half hour after sessions conclude, unless special programming warrants otherwise.

Upcoming Events

Please review the calendars on our website.  They are revised on a weekly basis, if not more often.  Below are SOME of the upcoming events:

• Nov 6:  6th grade band festival at AHS, 7:00
• Nov 7:  Band Boosters, 6:30, lib
• Nov 9:  7th/8th Crusader Theater, 7:00, PC  (Tickets needed)
• Nov 10:  In-Service.  No classes.  ECLC open.  7th/8th Crusader Theater, 7:00, PC (Tickets needed)
• Nov 11:  Parishioners helping parishioners
• Nov 12:  Cub Scouts’ Pinewood Derby
• Nov 13:  Skate Night.  Optional band field trip to the University of Iowa Band Extravaganza
• Nov 16:  Home & School
• Nov 17:  Blue Out Dress Day for JDRF
• Nov 18:  Mock Trial
• Nov 22-24:  Thanksgiving Break.  ECLC open on Nov 22nd.

Memorial Bench for Peg Gooder

The memorial bench for Peg Gooder is currently in the foyer awaiting its permanent home outside by the play equipment.  Peg will always be with us and JFK!

Pictured on the bench are Peg’s daughter, Sandy, and Peg’s grandson, Brandon.

Safety Survey

Thank you for your responses to the survey regarding safety at JFK.  We have a committee of parents and staff that is reviewing the responses, prioritizing them, and determining actions, as needed.  I’d like to thank those who offered to help on the committee:

1. 1. 1. Jeff Miller, parent of a current JFK student and JFK graduate and head of B & G for Muscatine School District
      2. Erin Pape, “current” parent and Davenport police officer
      3. Ashley Neumiller, “current” parent and former president of H & S
      4. Sheila Abbott, “current” parent and parent of a JFK graduate
      5. Jenifer Guyton, “current” parent and educator in an IL school district
      6. Elisha Kubalsky, “current” parent and JFK teacher
      7. Kitty Temming, parent of JFK graduates and JFK assistant principal
      8. Evan Brankin, youth ministry
      9. Jennifer Wemhoff,  parent of JFK graduates and director of religious education

Strategic Planning for Scott County Catholic Schools

Pastors, board presidents, and administrators of Scott County Catholic schools and representatives from the AHS Foundation (which also operates the financial assistance program for Scott County Catholic schools and has agreed to pay for strategic planning) met last week.  They agreed to pursue a consultant/consulting firm that could help determine how Catholic school education in Scott County can be made stronger and meet the needs for the future.  A sub-group was formed to identify one or two options for the consultants.  We anticipate that the consultant will utilize several focus groups and surveys after Christmas.

Three in a Row!

JFK’s 8th grade girls’ basketball team has gone undefeated for three years now.  Congratulations!  Below is a photo of the members of this year’s team.

Younkers Fundraiser for 8th Graders

JFK’s 8th graders are participating in the Younkers Community Days.  They are currently selling $5 coupon books for the event that will run November 8-11.  THEY GET TO KEEP 100% of the profit, which is used to help fund the 8th grade end of the year field trip. There are several ways to buy a coupon book:
1. Contact an 8th grader, or send $5 through backpack mail to Jody Beltran whose student is in 8K.  Mrs. Beltran will send you a coupon book.  Please indicate “Younkers Fundraiser” and your child’s name and teacher/grade on the envelope as well.
2. Buy online by following the simple steps in this post!
https://www.younkers.com/product/311676.html&ICID=17FCMDAYBK294543

Lead the Way:  JFK “Onlys”

Sometimes leading the way in Catholic school education means being the “only.”  Consistent with highlighting this year’s theme of “Lead the Way,” below are a few “onlys” for JFK:

• 60-90 minutes of English/Language Arts per day in grades 6-8  (JFK also has 60-90 minutes of ELA per day for grade 5 and 90-120 minutes per day for K-4)
• 60 minutes of math instruction K-8
• Civic Oration (research paper process and public speaking, grades 5-8)
• Regularly budgeted textbook replacement cycle
• Partner with the Department of Education and AEA for Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) for literacy
• Piloting of state’s new Self-Assessment of MTSS Implementation system
• Social-Emotional-Behavior screener (4th grade and will be expanded to 7th grade this year)
• Leaps & Bounds (summer academic program)
• Specials twice per week for full periods
• Creative Crusaders
• Mass at Ridgecrest
• Geothermal showcase system in library and a 5th grade classroom
• Air conditioning in cafeteria
• Long-term HVAC recommendation
• Nearly 2.5 resource teachers/interventionists funded from our own budget
• Equivalent of > 1.0 FTE Title I funded interventionists during the day and after school
• Five FT/PT K-5 instructional aides

Text Messaging Service Needs Your Action

JFK and Faith Formation will be using SchoolMessenger for its automated email, phone, and text messaging service.

In order to receive text messages, please type “Y” or “Yes” to 67587.  You will not receive text messages if you do not take action yourself.

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

What Does It Mean to be a Registered and Participating Member of OLV?

An OLV registered and participating member, at a minimum, follows the precepts of the Church and is called to go far beyond the minimum in the love of God and neighbor.  Below are the precepts, adapted for fulfillment by participation in the Church through Our Lady of Victory:

• Attend Mass at OLV on at least 30 weekends out of the year. While attending Mass on Sundays and on holy days of obligation is a precept of the Church, attending the majority of those Masses here at OLV ensures that the parish and families develop their relationship together as disciples of Christ.
• Confess one’s sins at least once per year.
• Receive Holy Communion at least once per year, during the Easter season.
• Observe the days of fast and abstinence.
• Provide for the needs of the Church, including OLV. The use of envelopes or electronic funds transfer should be used by OLV registered and participating members to facilitate this obligation.  If this obligation is too much of a hardship, an individualized plan for donated services/voluntarism may be agreed upon.

In addition, the following are also included in the definition of an OLV registered and participating member:

• Register in the parish by completing the parish registration form.
• Participate in and help with parish/school activities.

According to the tuition policy, active participating members of OLV pay a reduced JFK tuition rate.  Users of the school who are not active participating members of Our Lady of Victory shall pay a higher tuition rate.  They are still expected, however, to support the values of the school and participate in and help with parish/school activities.

Church Roof Work Begun (Again)

Work on the second replacement roof for the church seems to be moving quickly.  For details, please see Fr. Greiner’s column in the church bulletin:

https://www.olvjfk.com/olv/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/01/10328048A-101517.pdf

Younkers Fundraiser for 8th Graders

JFK’s 8th graders are participating in the Younkers Community Days.  They are currently selling $5 coupon books for the event that will run November 8-11.  THEY GET TO KEEP 100% of the profit, which is used to help fund the 8th grade end of the year field trip. There are several ways to buy a coupon book:
1. Contact an 8th grader, or send $5 through backpack mail to Jody Beltran whose student is in 8K.  Mrs. Beltran will send you a coupon book.  Please indicate “Younkers Fundraiser” and your child’s name and teacher/grade on the envelope as well.
2. Buy online by following the simple steps in this post!
https://www.younkers.com/product/311676.html&ICID=17FCMDAYBK294543
3. 8th graders may also be selling at the North Park Younkers store on Nov 4th from noon until 4pm

Lead the Way:  Technology Firsts

I mentioned earlier that this year’s theme is “Lead the Way.”  I’ll spend a few weeks highlighting how JFK is leading the way in Catholic school education.  Here are this week’s offerings regarding technology:

• First to have a wireless network throughout the building.
• First to have interactive whiteboards/projectors in every classroom.
• First to have document cameras in every classroom.
• First to be 1 to 1 in grades 5 – 8.
• First to use a computer based reading screener for help in identifying students who need extra help.
• First to have a full-time technology coordinator.
• First to have a Facebook closed group for community communications.
• First to have technology tools for staff to use for lesson/unit planning.
• First to have the electrical power/wiring upgraded throughout the building to support today’s needs.

Text Messaging Service Needs Your Action

JFK and Faith Formation will be using SchoolMessenger for its automated email, phone, and text messaging service.

In order to receive text messages, please type “Y” or “Yes” to 67587.  You will not receive text messages if you do not take action yourself.

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

Looking Ahead

• Oct 24 and 26:  Parent/teacher conferences.  Grades PS-5 will receive an email with a link to set up your time.  Grades 6-8 are “drop in” in the cafeteria so parents can visit with each of their child’s teachers.
• Oct 26 and 27:  No PS-8 classes
• Oct 28:  Trunk or Treat, 5:30-6:30, in the parking lot
• Oct 30:  Teacher In-Service, no PS-8 classes
• Oct 31:  Black/orange out of uniform dress day.  National Mix It Up Day (done at lunches).  All Saints Day Vigil Mass at 7:00 p.m.
• Nov 1:  Holy Day Mass — All Saints Day (Masses at 7:00 a.m., 8:15 a.m., and 6:00 p.m.)

JFK’s Handbook and Policies

JFK’s parent and student handbook can be accessed on our website under the “For Parents,” and “Policies and Forms” headings and is linked here.  Please access the handbook, review it with your child(ren), print the sign-off page, and return the signed page to the school office.  By not printing hard copies for every family, we can significantly save paper.

What Does It Mean to be a Registered and Participating Member of OLV?

An OLV registered and participating member, at a minimum, follows the precepts of the Church and is called to go far beyond the minimum in the love of God and neighbor.  Below are the precepts, adapted for fulfillment by participation in the Church through Our Lady of Victory:

• Attend Mass at OLV on at least 30 weekends out of the year. While attending Mass on Sundays and on holy days of obligation is a precept of the Church, attending the majority of those Masses here at OLV ensures that the parish and families develop their relationship together as disciples of Christ.
• Confess one’s sins at least once per year.
• Receive Holy Communion at least once per year, during the Easter season.
• Observe the days of fast and abstinence.
• Provide for the needs of the Church, including OLV. The use of envelopes or electronic funds transfer should be used by OLV registered and participating members to facilitate this obligation.  If this obligation is too much of a hardship, an individualized plan for donated services/voluntarism may be agreed upon.

In addition, the following are also included in the definition of an OLV registered and participating member:

• Register in the parish by completing the parish registration form.
• Participate in and help with parish/school activities.

According to the tuition policy, active participating members of OLV pay a reduced JFK tuition rate.  Users of the school who are not active participating members of Our Lady of Victory shall pay a higher tuition rate.  They are still expected, however, to support the values of the school and participate in and help with parish/school activities.

JMC Access Outside the Building Restored

We believe we identified the issue that was causing JMC to not work correctly from outside the building.  Mediacom was having a routing problem with their upstream provider.  This has been resolved, so I’m hopeful that the JMC issue is over.

Church Roof Work Begun (Again)

Work on the second replacement roof for the church began on Friday.  For details, please see Fr. Greiner’s column in last week’s church bulletin:

https://www.olvjfk.com/olv/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/01/10328048A-101517.pdf

Younkers Fundraiser for 8th Graders

JFK’s 8th graders are participating in the Younkers Community Days.  They are currently selling $5 coupon books for the event that will run November 8-11.  THEY GET TO KEEP 100% of the profit, which is used to help fund the 8th grade end of the year field trip. There are several ways to buy a coupon book:
1. Contact an 8th grader, or send $5 through backpack mail to Jody Beltran whose student is in 8K.  Mrs. Beltran will send you a coupon book.  Please indicate “Younkers Fundraiser” and your child’s name and teacher/grade on the envelope as well.
2. Buy online by following the simple steps in this post!
https://www.younkers.com/product/311676.html&ICID=17FCMDAYBK294543
3. 8th graders will be selling coupon books after Masses on the weekend of 10/28-10-29.
4. 8th graders will also be selling at the North Park Younkers store on Nov 4th from noon until 4pm

Lead the Way

I mentioned earlier that this year’s theme is “Lead the Way.”  I’ll spend a few weeks highlighting how JFK is leading the way in Catholic school education.  Here are this week’s offerings:

• First in the area to offer childcare for preschoolers and expand preschool to seven offerings (four classes for 4/5 year olds, a T/Th 3 yr old class, a MWF 3 yr old class, and a M-F class for 3 yr olds in ECLC).
• First in the area to require science fair projects at more than one grade level (7th and 8th grades).
• First in the area to include cognitive, skills development, and participation in PE grading.  First to utilize heart rate monitors.
• First to have 8th graders tour a college campus.  (Now, the tour is wrapped into Career Fair for all of the Scott County Catholic schools.  Career Fair is the largest joint venture with SAU with the recent exception of the athletic complex off of Central Park Ave.)
• First to offer junior high Mock Trial.
• First Catholic elementary school to have a school counselor, first to make the position full-time, and first to offer school-based therapist services with a private provider.
• First to utilize a camera and intercom system for building security.  (We’re also the only Catholic school in the area to have the school offices at the exterior of the building.)
• First to utilize two-way radios for communications throughout the building and campus.

Text Messaging Service Needs Your Action

JFK and Faith Formation will be using SchoolMessenger for its automated email, phone, and text messaging service.

In order to receive text messages, please type “Y” or “Yes” to 67587.  You will not receive text messages if you do not take action yourself.

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

Looking Ahead

• Oct 16:  Skate Night — Halloween Theme (Kid Friendly and Skate Safe Costumes, no capes).  6-8 p.m. at the Eldridge Skate Park.  Price is $3 per skater and $1.50 for skate rental.
• Oct 18:  AHS Information Knight for all grades, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
• Oct 20:  End of 1st quarter.  1:00 Dismissal.  No afternoon preschool classes.  Pumpkin Run
• Oct 24 and 26:  Parent/teacher conferences.  Grades PS-5 will receive an email with a link to set up your time.  Grades 6-8 are “drop in” in the cafeteria so parents can visit with each of their child’s teachers.
• Oct 26 and 27:  No PS-8 classes
• Oct 28:  Trunk or Treat, 5:30-6:30, in the parking lot
• Oct 30:  Teacher In-Service, no PS-8 classes
• Oct 31:  Black/orange out of uniform dress day.  National Mix It Up Day (done at lunches).  All Saints Day Vigil Mass at 7:00 p.m.
• Nov 1:  Holy Day Mass — All Saints Day (Masses at 7:00 a.m., 8:15 a.m., and 6:00 p.m.)

JFK’s Handbook and Policies

JFK’s parent and student handbook can be accessed on our website under the “For Parents,” and “Policies and Forms” headings and is linked here.  Please access the handbook, review it with your child(ren), print the sign-off page, and return the signed page to the school office.  By not printing hard copies for every family, we can significantly save paper.

What Does It Mean to be a Registered and Participating Member of OLV?

An OLV registered and participating member, at a minimum, follows the precepts of the Church and is called to go far beyond the minimum in the love of God and neighbor.  Below are the precepts, adapted for fulfillment by participation in the Church through Our Lady of Victory:

• Attend Mass at OLV on at least 30 weekends out of the year. While attending Mass on Sundays and on holy days of obligation is a precept of the Church, attending the majority of those Masses here at OLV ensures that the parish and families develop their relationship together as disciples of Christ.
• Confess one’s sins at least once per year.
• Receive Holy Communion at least once per year, during the Easter season.
• Observe the days of fast and abstinence.
• Provide for the needs of the Church, including OLV. The use of envelopes or electronic funds transfer should be used by OLV registered and participating members to facilitate this obligation.  If this obligation is too much of a hardship, an individualized plan for donated services/voluntarism may be agreed upon.

In addition, the following are also included in the definition of an OLV registered and participating member:

• Register in the parish by completing the parish registration form.
• Participate in and help with parish/school activities.

According to the tuition policy, active participating members of OLV pay a reduced JFK tuition rate.  Users of the school who are not active participating members of Our Lady of Victory shall pay a higher tuition rate.  They are still expected, however, to support the values of the school and participate in and help with parish/school activities.

H & S Message

Pumpkin Run is October 20th.  It takes a lot of people all doing a little bit to make the evening successful.  Sign up to volunteer now: http://signupgenius.com/go/20f0c48abaf2da0ff2-pumpkin .  

Assumption Play

Tree Trimming

Welcome Back, Mrs. Youngerman

With her leukemia in remission, Mrs. Youngerman is returning to school on October 9th.  It has been a long time since she has been able to be in the classroom.  We want to thank everyone for their support, including those classes that will have schedule changes so we can accommodate her late afternoon four week daily treatment cycles.  It’ll be good to see you back in your room, Mrs. Youngerman!

Welcome, Christian Jackson Tilkens

Christian Jackson Tilkens was born on Oct 4th at 9:57 pm.  He couldn’t wait any longer to be with all of his family!

Mrs. Tilkens’ PE duties will be split between Mrs. Pat Cannaday and Mrs. Marissa Antle.  We also want to thank Mr. Ryan, Mrs. Woerdehoff, JFK graduate Adam Burke, and other staff members who are stepping forward to help with all of Mrs. Tilkens’ other duties.

Text Messaging Service Needs Your Action

JFK and Faith Formation will be using SchoolMessenger for its automated email, phone, and text messaging service.

In order to receive text messages, please type “Y” or “Yes” to 67587.  You will not receive text messages if you do not take action yourself.

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

Looking Ahead

• Oct 9:  Band Butterbraid Bread (try saying that fast three times!) Sale begins on Oct 9th.  Orders will be received prior to Thanksgiving.
• Oct 11:  Davenport Fire Department will be at JFK for our youngest students.  October is Fire Prevention Month.
• Oct 13:  Friday Adventure Night (Middle School Youth Ministry)
• Oct 16:  Skate Night — Halloween Theme (Kid Friendly and Skate Safe Costumes, no capes)
• Oct 18:  AHS Information Knight for all grades, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
• Oct 20:  End of 1st quarter.  1:00 Dismissal.  No afternoon preschool classes.  Pumpkin Run
• Oct 24 and 26:  Parent/teacher conferences.  Grades PS-5 will receive an email with a link to set up your time.  Grades 6-8 are “drop in” in the cafeteria so parents can visit with each of their child’s teachers.
• Oct 26 and 27:  No PS-8 classes
• Oct 28:  Trunk or Treat, 5:30-6:30, in the parking lot
• Oct 30:  Teacher In-Service, no PS-8 classes
• Oct 31:  Black/orange out of uniform dress day.  National Mix It Up Day (done at lunches).  All Saints Day Vigil Mass at 7:00 p.m.
• Nov 1:  Holy Day Mass — All Saints Day (Masses at 7:00 a.m., 8:15 a.m., and 6:00 p.m.)

Land Donated to Our Lady of Victory

Kwik-Trip, Inc. essentially donated the two parcels of land immediately south of our parking lot to OLV.  OLV now owns the brown and white houses on Division and the land to the east up to the ravine.  Kwik-Trip owns the properties along Sturdevant.

JFK’s Handbook and Policies

JFK’s parent and student handbook can be accessed on our website under the “For Parents,” and “Policies and Forms” headings and is linked here.  Please access the handbook, review it with your child(ren), print the sign-off page, and return the signed page to the school office.  By not printing hard copies for every family, we can significantly save paper.

H & S Messages

Send in your Box Tops for Education.  A fall submittal is coming up in October.

Pumpkin Run is October 20th.  It takes a lot of people all doing a little bit to make the evening successful.  Sign up to volunteer now: http://signupgenius.com/go/20f0c48abaf2da0ff2-pumpkin .  

Dawn Henning Assumes New Role with Tuition

We are attempting to consolidate a variety of school related financial work under one position.  Dawn Henning will now be responsible for PS and K-8 tuition and contracts and financial assistance awards, JFK registration/fees, lunch program accounting, and child care fees, responsibilities that used to be spread among at least three parish and school office staff members.  Assistance and oversight is still provided by parish and school administration, but now, if one wants to know how much is owed to OLV/JFK, Dawn should be able to give the answer.

Assumption Play

Tree Trimming

Youth Ministry Information

The Diocese of Davenport’s Junior High School Rally is Sunday October 15th, from 9:30 am – 5:00 pm.   Featured speakers include Mathias Michael and Bishop Zinkula.  There are breakout sessions, music, group games, lunch, and small group sessions with other teens all focused on the Mass.  Parent chaperones are needed to drive and supervise the teens once there.  If students register by Wednesday, the costs are $30 per teen and $20 per adult.  The costs after Wednesday increase $5.  Lunch is provided, and attendees should bring money as a dinner stop on the way home is a possibility.  More info here: https://www.davenportdiocese.org/jhrally

Text Messaging Service Needs Your Action

JFK and Faith Formation will be using SchoolMessenger for its automated email, phone, and text messaging service.

In order to receive text messages, please type “Y” or “Yes” to 67587.  You will not receive text messages if you do not take action yourself.

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

Special Events this Week

• Oct 2:  World Bully Prevention Day.  Wear blue for bully prevention.  Students do need to follow the Out of Uniform guidelines in our handbook.
• Oct 3:  Pack the Stadium Pep Rally for AHS Homecoming at 1:15
• Oct 4:  Blessing of Animals (Real or Stuffed), 3:00, fields behind JFK
• Oct 4:  7th Grade NET Retreat
• Oct 5:  8th Grade NET Retreat
• Oct 6:  Pack the Stadium at AHS Football Game

Neighboring Land Vote Cancelled

Mr. David Parochetti withdrew his request that the Davenport City Council remove the thirteen conditions from two parcels of land at the corner of Kimberly and Sturdevant that had been imposed as part of the rezoning process in 1999 when Schnucks purchased many lots in order to build a grocery store. With his withdrawal, a Taco Bell project across from the dental office is unlikely.  We hope to work with Kwik-Trip, Inc., city staff, Beattie Dentistry, and neighbors to determine the proper zoning and conditions for the land along Sturdevant that will allow development that will be an asset to the neighborhood.

Land Donated to Our Lady of Victory

Kwik-Trip, Inc. essentially donated the two parcels of land immediately south of our parking lot to OLV.  OLV now owns the brown and white houses on Division and the land to the east up to the ravine.  Kwik-Trip owns the properties along Sturdevant.

JFK’s Handbook and Policies

JFK’s parent and student handbook can be accessed on our website under the “For Parents,” and “Policies and Forms” headings and is linked here.  Please access the handbook, review it with your child(ren), print the sign-off page, and return the signed page to the school office.  By not printing hard copies for every family, we can significantly save paper.

H & S Messages

Send in your Box Tops for Education.  A fall submittal is coming up in October.

Pumpkin Run is October 20th.  It takes a lot of people all doing a little bit to make the evening successful.  Sign up to volunteer now: http://signupgenius.com/go/20f0c48abaf2da0ff2-pumpkin .  Orders for Pumpkin Run t-shirts are due by Friday, October 6th.  

Dawn Henning Assumes New Role with Tuition

We are attempting to consolidate a variety of school related financial work under one position.  Dawn Henning will now be responsible for PS and K-8 tuition and contracts and financial assistance awards, JFK registration/fees, lunch program accounting, and child care fees, responsibilities that used to be spread among at least three parish and school office staff members.  Assistance and oversight is still provided by parish and school administration, but now, if one wants to know how much is owed to OLV/JFK, Dawn should be able to give the answer.

Ladies Night

Wine, cheese, and chocolate will be served at the Ladies Night on October 5th at 6:30 p.m. in the Gathering Space Meeting Room.  Learn more about OLV’s Ladies Council and all of the various “circles'” activities.  RSVP to judyj1020@msn.com or text a message to 563-210-5154.

Youth Ministry Information

The Diocese of Davenport’s Junior High School Rally is Sunday October 15th, from 9:30 am – 5:00 pm.   Featured speakers include Mathias Michael and Bishop Zinkula.  There are breakout sessions, music, group games, lunch, and small group sessions with other teens all focused on the Mass.  Parent chaperones are needed to drive and supervise the teens once there.  If students register by Wednesday, the costs are $30 per teen and $20 per adult.  The costs after Wednesday increase $5.  Lunch is provided, and attendees should bring money as a dinner stop on the way home is a possibility.  More info here: https://www.davenportdiocese.org/jhrally

JFK Demographics — Record Preschool Enrollment

Late September and early October mark official enrollment count dates for the State of Iowa, National Catholic Education Association, and Diocese of Davenport.  JFK had record 3 – 5 yr old preschool this year with 102 preschoolers.  Following is some information regarding our student body:

Chad

Here We Go! Major Facilities Projects

This year’s theme is Leading the Way, but last year’s theme was “Here We Go!”  Last year and now into this year, we accomplished more than $500,000 in facility improvements at OLV and JFK.  These were funded through a variety of sources, but the biggest source was through the insurance claim for the hail damage to the church, rectory, school, and other building roofs.

• Replaced multiple buildings’ roofs
• Rebuilt the stained glass window frames (paid for with the Save Our Windows campaign)
• Replaced the chiller section of the church air conditioning system
• Replaced the JFK boiler, wall units along north walls of 1963 section, classroom controls in 1963 section
• Upgraded security features near church entrances
• Acquired the brown house on Division Street to provide an even greater buffer from the intersection

In addition to these projects, Kwik-Trip (parent company of Kwik-Star) just donated two parcels of land just to the south of our parking lot and directly behind the brown and white houses, which we already own, to OLV.  We now own everything from the ravine by the dumpster to the back of Kwik-Star and over to Division.  Kwik-Trip still owns the properties between the ball field and Kimberly.

A major facility review of the OLV/JFK campus is underway.  We are trying to estimate life expectancies and costs of all major elements of the campus to better plan for the future.

Text Messaging Service Needs Your Action

JFK and Faith Formation will be using SchoolMessenger for its automated email, phone, and text messaging service.

In order to receive text messages, please type “Y” or “Yes” to 67587.  You will not receive text messages if you do not take action yourself.

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

Neighboring Land Vote This Week

At 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday at City Hall, the Davenport City Council will vote on a request to have the thirteen conditions removed from two parcels of land at the corner of Kimberly and Sturdevant that had been imposed as part of the rezoning process in 1999 when Schnucks purchased many lots in order to build a grocery store.  As we all can see, after Schnucks purchased land to the south of OLV/JFK, had it rezoned, and tore down 5-6 homes, the grocery store project never materialized.  Mr. David Parochetti is requesting that the conditions imposed upon the land to safeguard the neighborhood be removed so he can build a Taco Bell across from the dental office.

Last week’s public hearing was very lengthy, and I spoke on behalf of OLV and JFK.  We are opposed to the conditions being dismissed without discussion and new long-range planning.  While it may make sense to remove a few of the conditions , even conditions that we were involved in negotiating back in 1999, since Schnucks has sold the land to Kwik-Star and the parcels of land that could now be developed are now only along Sturdevant, other conditions should not be removed.  We are opposed to the removal of conditions that, for example, were intended to ease traffic congestion and maintain the safety along Sturdevant Street and by the school.

We firmly believe that all of the conditions and a new plan for the land to the south of us need to be discussed, and we hope we can, again, be part of that discussion just like we were in 1999.  This discussion, in fact, is one of city staff’s recommendations, “…to revisit the need for the extent of commercial zoning in the area.”  However, the immediate case before City Council is for the complete removal of the thirteen conditions.

All are invited to what will be a shorter meeting this Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.  The more people at City Hall, the more City Council will be obliged to stop and think things through.

JFK’s Handbook and Policies

JFK’s parent and student handbook can be accessed on our website under the “For Parents,” and “Policies and Forms” headings and is linked here.  Please access the handbook, review it with your child(ren), print the sign-off page, and return the signed page to the school office.  By not printing hard copies for every family, we can significantly save paper.

Lunch Program Costs and NSLP Applications

JFK participates in the National School Lunch Program.  As such ALL lunches are partially subsidized by the federal and state governments.  By our understanding of the formulas, we actually should be charging at least $2.86 per student meal, but we can only raise the price $0.10 per year.  If you would like to apply for further government help with hot lunches, please complete an NSLP application for free/reduced lunches.  New applications must be filed each year and were sent home to every K-8 family.  Please contact us if you would like another application.  The 30 day grace period of eligibility from one school year to the next will expire in a couple of weeks.

“It is the policy of JFK not to discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or religion in its programs, activities, or employment practices as required by the Iowa Code section 216.7 and 216.9.  If you have questions or grievances related to compliance with this policy by (name of CNP Provider), please contact the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, Grimes State Office Building, 400 E. 14th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319-1004;  phone number 515-281-4121, 800-457-4416;  web site:  http://www.state.ia.us/government/crc/index.html.”

Extra-Curricular Activities

We are most grateful to JFK parents and our other adult volunteers for leading our extra-curricular activities.   Girl Scouts has their registration on Monday night, Lego League has begun, and Creative Crusaders has dates on the calendar.  If you would like to help with these or any other extra-curricular activity, please contact the school office so we can relay your contact information.  If you are interested in starting another extra-curricular activity at JFK, please let me know.

OLV Foundation

The OLV Foundation has begun its legacy campaign to reach an endowment of $1,000,000 by 2020.  Currently, the Foundation has an endowment of just over $560,000, and investment earnings of $26,000 were distributed to the church and school this summer.  Be a part of the legacy by joining the 300 club ($300 per year for 7 years), giving in honor of one of our past pastors, or making a one time donation.  More information about the OLV Foundation can be found here.

Mid-Quarter Reports Home Mid-Week

The end of the first mid-quarter was Friday.  We usually give the teachers about 2-3 working days to make sure they have everything organized, and then mid-quarter reports are distributed to all families.  Look for the mid-quarter reports near the middle of this week.

Youth Ministry Information

The Diocese of Davenport’s Junior High School Rally is Sunday October 15th, from 9:30 am – 5:00 pm.   Featured speakers include Mathias Michael and Bishop Zinkula.  There are breakout sessions, music, group games, lunch, and small group sessions with other teens all focused on the Mass.  Parent chaperones are needed to drive and supervise the teens once there.  If students register by Wednesday, the costs are $30 per teen and $20 per adult.  The costs after Wednesday increase $5.  Lunch is provided, and attendees should bring money as a dinner stop on the way home is a possibility.  More info here: https://www.davenportdiocese.org/jhrally

Chad