Dear St. John Paul II Families,
For those of you who were not here last Friday for Mass, the students were singing so beautifully to “Here I am to Worship” and I complimented them on how wonderful they sounded! I shared vulnerability with everyone as I could not readily remember the Saint who said that when you sing, you pray twice. Luckily and quickly, our StJPII community of Saints came to my rescue! Thank you to all of you for walking alongside me and our Saint community as we continue to grow in faith and knowledge.
A wonderful parent even sent me this quote from St. Augustine, “For he that singeth praise, not only praiseth, but only praiseth with gladness: he that singeth praise, not only singeth, but also loveth him of whom he singeth. In praise, there is the speaking forth of one confessing; in singing, the affection of one loving.” (St. Augustine, Commentary on Psalm 73, 1)
We are enjoying Catholic Schools Week here on campus! A special shout-out to the GRAY team who won yesterday's relay challenge during the spirited Pep Rally. Today, we welcomed prospective parents to our Open House and celebrated our 30th Birthday! The fun continues this week, read below for all the details.
In Him,
|
|
First Friday All-School Mass
This Friday,
February 2, we will continue our tradition of honoring the First Friday devotion with an all-school Mass. During Mass, we will recognize our volunteers and also celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord. Forty days after his birth, Jesus was brought to the temple by Mary and Joseph to be consecrated to God. There, a man named Simeon recognized Jesus as the savior who would be a light to all nations. Just as our volunteers are here to help at school, Simeon was present in the temple to serve where he was needed. Please join us as we worship together as a community on what will be a very special day.
|
|
Strategic Plan
Unfortunately, we experienced technical difficulties that evening, so the recording of Mrs. Bogard's live presentation is unavailable. In the meantime, she plans on re-recording her presentation, which will be posted online soon.
|
|
StJPII Yard Signs
Get your StJPII yard Sign while supplies last! During the Strategic Plan Townhall, Mrs. Bogard unveiled a new initiative about increasing our school's brand awareness. So please show your Saints pride by proudly displaying a new StJPII yard sign! They are only $10 each and will be sold at the front office through Ash Wednesday,
February 14. After that, the PTO Spirit Store will manage the inventory. Thank you for spreading the good news about StJPII!
|
|
February 8: Principal Proclamation Day
Last month, our student "Principal for the Day" Macey Saenz issued a proclamation. On
February 8, students in the following grades will get to enjoy the special privileges listed below:
- PreK, 1st, and 2nd Grades – pajama day and extra recess
- 3rd-5th Grades – homework pass at teacher discretion, crazy hair day (no paint or color), and free dress
- 6th-8th Grades – homework pass at teacher discretion, extra recess, and 10 min. nap
|
|
St. Thomas Essay Contest
Again this year, StJPII students participated in the University of St. Thomas (UST) Essay Contest.
Congratulations to the following students who received recognition:
- 5th Grade: Jenna Beyer (4th place)
- 6th Grade: Lizzy DeGeeter (4th place)
- 7th Grade: Frankie Finger (4th place), McKay Lawless (4th place)
- 8th Grade: Kristen Mohan (3rd place, third consecutive year to be recognized as a finalist)
There were 8,056 students—third-graders through high school seniors—who wrote essays for the contest, sponsored by the UST Office of Catholic Outreach. Their topics covered what it means to be a leader, the importance of Catholic schools, and the promises of the Rosary.
|
|
Robotics News
The StJPII Robotics teams were in action this weekend in the Regional meet at the British International School. The Awebots and Robokids were part of the 60 teams (out of 267 total) in the South Texas Region who qualified for this meet. Qualifying alone is a big accomplishment, but both teams walked away with awards too! The Robokids brought home a 3rd place trophy for Teamwork in recognition of being "a team that is able to accomplish more together than they could as individuals through shared goals, strong communication, effective problem solving, and excellent time management." The Awebots received a 1st place trophy for Inspiration in recognition of being "a team that is empowered by their FIRST LEGO League experience and displays extraordinary enthusiasm and spirit." Be sure to take a look at the yellow Lego trophies in the front office window! This is an amazing accomplishment for both StJPII teams to win an award at this level with so much competition. Congratulations to the Awebots and Robokids!
|
|
Challenge Lunches
Last week, the Challenge Club assembled 50 lunch packs for Kids' Meals on Wheels, which serves Houston's most vulnerable children. The organization was very grateful for the love and support these StJPII students put into each pack. The lunch packs included several nonperishable and healthy snacks that members of the club donated. The bags were also decorated with artwork and inspirational messages drawn by the students. Thank you, Challenge Club, for spreading the gospel and serving those who need it most!
|
|
February 9: Cardinal Mass
His Eminence Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, the metropolitan Archbishop of Galveston-Houston, will be at StJPII to celebrate All-School Mass on
Friday, February 9
at 8:30 a.m. Please join us!
|
|
February 9: Middle School Dance
The Middle School Dance will be at StJPII in the BAC on
Friday, February 9
from 7:00-9:30 p.m. Tickets are $15; students must register to attend. For the registration form,
click here.
|
|
February 16: Parent-Teacher Conferences
Spring Parent/Teacher Conference Day is
Friday, February 16
. These spring conferences are required for ALL new students, OR if a teacher or parent requests a conference. ALL students will have class-time in the morning;
dismissal will take place at 12:00/12:15/12:30. There will be
NO AFTERNOON BASP and no cafeteria service; students may bring a sack lunch or snack.
Conferences will be scheduled for 1:15-4:00 p.m. Be on the lookout for a sign-up link from the teachers after February 6.
|
|
February 19: Ice Make Up Day
February 19 has been designated as a make-up day for the icy weather we had earlier this month. This day was originally scheduled as a Teacher In-Service day as well as our New Student Testing Day. Now however, we will have a
half day of school and continue with new student testing in the afternoon. ALL students will have class-time in the morning;
dismissal will take place at 12:00/12:15/12:30.
There will be NO AFTERNOON BASP and no cafeteria service; students may bring a sack lunch or snack.
Thank you for your support and understanding as we schedule as best we can for the whole StJPII community. The administration will be finalizing the last make up day in the coming weeks and will notify you as soon as possible.
|
|
2017-2018 Annual Fund
Thank you to all those who have given to the Annual Fund thus far! We are blessed by your generosity. We are nearly halfway to our goal!
We recognize that not everyone will be able to contribute this year, so we need those who can, to prayerfully consider doing more. With fewer donors and greater need, it is imperative we not only meet but exceed our Annual Fund goal.
Every donation, no matter how small, truly makes a difference! To give online, please visit:
www.jp2.org/give
. For more information, please contact Development Director,
Jessi Cook
.
|
|
8th Grade Yearbook Ads
Do you want to share how much you love your graduating eighth grader or how proud you are of them? Then the StJPII yearbook is the place! Eighth grade yearbook ads are now on sale, and if you are a parent, grandparent or friend that would like to leave a message for your StJPII graduate that will last forever, the perfect place is an ad in the yearbook!
Forms
have been sent home in the Tuesday folder. The deadline is
February 23,
and ads are sold on a first come, first served basis. Space is limited and once we are sold out, there is no more room, so get your ad in today! If you have any questions, contact Journalism Advisor
Shari Hiltbrand
.
|
|
Save the Date - Dads Retreat
All StJPII dads are invited to attend the upcoming Dad's Retreat, which will be held at StJPII in the All-Saints Chapel on
March 3, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. The retreat will be led by campus Chaplain Fr. Eamonn Shelly. Be on the lookout for registration information in February. In the meantime, please mark your calendars because this is an event you won't want to miss! There will be a nominal registration fee to cover food and supplies. For more information, you may email:
dads@jp2.org.
|
|
Art Clubs for Spring Semester
It's time for students to consider joining the Art Clubs for the Spring Semester! Art teacher
Mrs. Stieber
offers these after-school clubs to boys and girls who enjoy making a variety of challenging creative art projects.
For more information, click the links below:
|
|
Catholic Schools Week Continues...
|
|
Wednesday, January 31 - Saints Jeopardy/Trivia Day
Today is all about growing our Saints knowledge by participating in trivia activities and Saint Jeopardy. Students will have Early Dismissal at 2/2:15/2:30 p.m.
Students may wear spirit shirts and jeans.
|
|
Thursday, February 1 - Brighten Someone’s Day
This year, students will take care of one another in the form of intentional acts of kindness. All acts of kindness will be displayed on the wall next to the Pre-K restrooms.
Students are asked to wear bright, neon-colored shirts.
|
|
Friday, February 2 - Give Thanks Day
The StJPII community is so remarkable thanks to the work of hundreds of volunteers and their countless hours of service and dedication. If you have volunteered at StJPII in any capacity this school year, you are cordially invited to celebrate Mass with the entire Saints community so we can thank you for all of the time and talent you dedicate to StJPII. There will be a reception immediately following Mass. We look forward to honoring YOU!
Students must wear full-dress uniforms.
|
|
Steps for Students - Family Commitment Opportunity
Students may participate in the Archdiocese's Steps for Students 5K Run/Walk on
Saturday, February 17 next to the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in downtown Houston. Money raised will be applied to your 2017-2018 Family Commitment balance. Not only is Steps for Students a great community event supporting Catholic education, but Steps for Students also offers an easy, virtual tool for you to collect pledges and raise money. To participate, simply visit
steps4students.org. After registering, participants will create personalized fundraising pages that can easily be forwarded to friends and family asking for their support. StJPII is delighted to offer this as a means of earning Family Commitment, but it is VERY IMPORTANT that you designate StJPII as your school of choice for the funds to be allocated properly. Don't delay...
registration is now open!
The registration fees increase and the "snooze option" expires on February 1, so don't delay!
Your help and support is also needed. A 5K race that supports 12,000+ runners requires human power to bring it across the finish line! Click on the links to volunteer for either pre-race or race day volunteer opportunities:
Thank you in advance for your efforts to support this important event that helps all the Catholic schools.
|
|
30th Anniversary Gala - February 24
|
|
Gala Volunteers Needed
Looking for an easy and fun way to get involved with the Don’t Stop Believin’ Gala? Volunteer your time and help make Gala night a success. Many different opportunities are available -
sign up today! For more information, contact
gala@jp2.org.
|
|
Family & Business Underwriting
Support StJPII and take advantage of the Gala’s unique promotional opportunities - there are still underwriting spots available! Purchase a Ballroom Display Screen Ad for $250 (half page) or $500 (full page) to see your family or business’ name up in lights! For more information, visit
jp2.org/gala or contact
Heidi Galito.
|
|
Last Call to Donate Wine
Donate a bottle of wine (at least $25 value) for the Wine & Pet Rock Adoption event at the Don’t Stop Believin’ Gala! It’s easier than ever to donate, just drop off your bottle of wine at the front office by Friday,
February 9. Thank you to everyone who has already donated and remember, you don’t have to donate a pet rock to donate wine!
|
|
February PTO Meeting
Please join us for the February PTO meeting,
February 7 at 8:15 a.m. We will meet in St. Jude Hall where Sally Clark, our Gala Chair, will share details pertaining to the upcoming gala. All are welcome to attend these monthly meetings; we would love to see you there!
|
|
Glow Skate Party
Save the Date for a
g
l
o
w
i
n
g afternoon at the Dairy Ashford Roller Rink! On
February 16 from 4:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m., DARR is hosting a GLOW SKATE DAY for StJPII! Break out the neon and mark your calendars- more details to follow!
|
|
February 9: Box Tops Contest Deadline
It’s time to send in those Box Tops! The classroom contest is now running through February 9.
The homeroom that turns in the highest number of box tops will win a
FREE DRESS DAY. Second place winners will receive a
FREE T-SHIRT DAY.
Sample Box Top coupon with expiration date, shown below:
|
|
1. Clip exactly around the dotted edge lines as you see pictured.
2. Place all box tops & grocery store promotional coupons into a zip top baggie.
3. Please turn into homeroom teachers with your child’s name & teacher on the bag.
|
|
Elementary Athletics
Registration is OPEN for both Spring Volleyball and Baseball/Softball.
Please see the following links to Register:
|
|
Middle School Athletics
The incredible Girls Varsity basketball team played their last district game and defeated St. Cecilia last week securing the #1 seed in our district! The girls played outstanding offense and defense, starting out strong and never looked back! They finished district play at 11-1 and now head to the GHCAA playoffs. They will play at home this
Thursday at 4:30,
so please come out and pack the stands and cheer our girls on to victory! Our JV Lady Saints also had an amazing last game by beating St. Cecilia, completing their season with an undefeated record of 11-0! Our JV team is made of true grit, determination, and true sportsmanship. The 6th grade team had an awesome season, finishing out with a record of 7-1 and the girls already look forward to next season! We are so proud of all of our LADY SAINTS!
The Boys Saints basketball teams finished out their seasons this past week. Our 6th graders, led by Coach Voss, were a feisty team who loved to play fast. Their season record was 5-3 in district and in their final game of the season had a big win against St. Thomas More. The JV basketball team, led by Coach Hertlein, was an aggressive team and a hard-working bunch of athletes who won games this year by simply out hustling the other teams. Their district record was 3-6 and finished strong in their tournament they hosted by making it to the championship game. Our Varsity team, led by Coach Thomas and Coach Hertlein, was a team full of grit and perseverance. Our boys had a season in which their resolve was tested time after time and they showed they do not give up and play hard for the whole game! Our district record was 2-10 and their final tournament of the year ended up as a quarter finalists. Our coaches are extremely proud of our hard working boys! Way to go Saints!
StJPII Cheerleaders were with both the boys and the girls basketball teams every step of the way demonstrating spirit and sportsmanship! We are so thankful to have our girls revving up the stands and cheering us on to victory! Coach McCurry and Coach Ande are very proud of their squad as well!
Boys Lacrosse will have their tryouts this Friday, February 2, from 3:30-5:00 p.m. here on the StJPII field. Please have all of your lacrosse equipment for tryouts!
Girls Lacrosse will have their very first clinic on Tuesday, February 6, from 3:30-5:00 p.m. It is open to 5th through 8th grade girls; if you want to participate in the clinic you must have a lacrosse stick, goggles, and a mouth guard. Tryouts will be the 3rd week of February; date is still yet to be determined. All clinics and tryouts will be held here on the StJPII field. We welcome Christina Kurt, our 6th grade girls basketball coach, as our new lacrosse coach for the Lady Saints!
Track & Field (T&F) will have a parent meeting on Tuesday, February 13 at 6:00 p.m. in St. Jude Hall - please make every effort to attend this meeting if your child is going to participate in T&F. The first T&F practice will be on Tuesday, February 20 from 3:30-5:30 p.m. T&F is open to 5th - 8th grade boys and girls.
Varsity Softball tryouts are Monday, February 5 and Tuesday, February 6 from 3:30 -5:00 p.m. right here on our field.
**Please remember for Softball, athletes must attend both days of tryouts, and as always you must have a physical on file with Nurse Aertker. We also ask that parents refrain from attending tryouts and adhere to our "closed door" policy!
The Varsity Baseball team has been formed and we look forward to our new team starting off strong this season! Please go to the
StJPII Athletic webpage
and take a look at our new Varsity baseball Saints! Coach Piazza is pumped up for a great season!
|
|
St. John Vianney Super Bowl Party!
Come watch the big game and join all the fun on
Sunday, February 4 at 3:30 p.m. at the St. John Vianney Activity Center! There will be two giant screens, all-you-can-eat buffet, flat screen raffle, door prizes, football squares and more! The party is appropriate for ages 10 and up. Complimentary babysitting is available for ages 1-10 yrs. by reservation only. The event is $15 per person and advance reservations are due by
January 30; after that date and at the door, tickets are $17 per person. To reserve your spot and pay online, go to
www.stjohnvianney.org. You can also reserve your spot by calling 281-497-1555 or emailing
sjvrsvp@stjohnvianney.org.
|
|
St. Pius X Basketball Clinic
Support the St. Pius X Panther girl’s basketball program. Parents enjoy a night out for Valentines while your kids have fun at a basketball clinic. For more information, please see the
flyer.
|
|
1/30 Happy Birthday StJPII!
1/30 Open House for Prospective Families 6:00-7:30 p.m.
1/31 Early Dismissal (2:00/2:15/2:20), Blue Jean & Spirit Shirts
1/31 Mass, 7:10 a.m., All Saints Chapel
1/31 Dads Basketball, 7 p.m., BAC
2/1 Neon Shirt Day
2/2 First Friday All-School Mass, 8:30 a.m., BAC
2/2 Volunteer Appreciation Reception, 9:30 a.m., BAC
2/2 Talent Show, 1:15 p.m., GSC
2/6 Progress Reports sent home
2/7 Mass, 7:10 a.m., All Saints Chapel
2/7 PTO Meeting, 8:15 a.m., SJH
2/7 Dads Basketball, 7 p.m., BAC
2/8 Principal Proclamation Day
2/9 Cardinal All School Mass, 8:30 a.m., BAC
2/9 Middle School Dance, 7:00 p.m., GSC
|
|
|
|
|
St. John Paul II Catholic School
|
1400 Parkway Plaza, Houston, TX 77077
281-496-1500 • 281-496-2943 (fax)
|
|
St. John Paul II Catholic School prepares all students spiritually
and academically to succeed in life and to do God's will.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
