Volume 1 | Issue 21
(click the link at the bottom of the email to see entire newsletter)
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Next Week's School Calendar
2/9 - 2/15
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Sunday
- Full Choir at Mass (9:30am Church)
Monday
- Basketball Practice (Evening)
Tuesday
- Intermediate Band Practice (During School)
- Advance Band (After School)
- Basketball Practice (Evening)
Wednesday
- Chess Club (Lunch)
- Beginner Band Practice (During School)
- Intermediate Band Practice (After School)
- Basketball Practice (Evening)
Thursday
- Knight Crew Practice (After School)
- Basketball Practice (Evening)
- School Board Meeting (Evening)
Friday
- Fun Lunch
- Advanced Band Practice 8th, 6th & 7th Grade (During School)
- Beginner Band 4th & 5th Grade (After School)
- Basketball Games (Evening)
Saturday
- Hispanic Ministry Confirmation Retreat (10am - 2pm)
- Basketball Blackout (Begins at 5pm)
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Ben Conway Spells His Way to Success!
We are proud to congratulate St. Pius X 8th grader, Ben Conway, for his outstanding performance in the Private/Parochial Spelling Bee, where he earned 2nd place! Ben’s dedication and hard work have earned him a spot at the DuPage Regional Spelling Bee.
Way to go, Ben! Your St. Pius X family is proud of you, and we wish you the best of luck!
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St. Pius X Families. Click on your Family Portal in FACTS to enroll for the 2025-26 School Year.
Spread the word to friends and family about what an amazing place St. Pius X Parish School is! Tell them to go to our website to schedule a tour or apply.
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Homework Help
Homework Club is on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:15-4. Pick up in front of school promptly at 4:00. Students are welcome to come if they need help with their homework. Ms. B in Room 113 on Mondays and Mrs. Pohl on Wednesdays in Room 207.
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Don’t Miss Casino Knight – The Event of the Year!
Join us on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the St. Pius X Social Center for a night of fun, community, and fundraising at our Annual Gala & Fundraiser Auction!
This year’s Casino Knight brings the excitement of real Roulette, Craps, Blackjack, and Poker right to St. Pius X! Enjoy an evening of gaming, great food, and friendly competition while getting to know fellow school families and teachers in a relaxed, festive atmosphere.
After the games, our live auction will feature amazing prizes, including a Florida vacation, an orthodontic package, a private sushi class, and unique teacher experiences. Plus, the top casino player of the night wins FREE tuition for one student for a year!
More than just a great time, this event is vital to keeping St. Pius X Parish School strong. Every dollar raised helps provide for our students, teachers, and school programs.
Secure your tickets now and be part of this unforgettable evening! For tickets and details, visit the Gala and Fundraiser Auction Portal or email gala@stpiuslombard.org. We can’t wait to see you there!
Your Help is Needed with the Auction
Whether it be setting up, kitchen help, checking in or any number of Gala-Related tasks, we are looking for volunteers to help in this final stage, the actual execution, of this year's Gala & Fundraiser Auction. Shifts are short to insure you can still have fun at the event. Click the button below to sign up.
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Auction Item Spotlight: Win a Magical Florida Vacation at the St. Pius X Annual Gala & Auction!
Dreaming of sunshine, adventure, and unforgettable family memories? Your perfect getaway is just one bid away at this year’s St. Pius X Annual Gala & Fundraiser Auction on February 22 at the St. Pius X Social Center! This year’s event, themed "Casino Knight," promises an exciting evening of fun, community, and incredible prizes—including an exclusive 7-night, 6-day stay at a stunning Kissimmee, Florida townhouse!
The Ultimate Disney Vacation Awaits You
Picture yourself just minutes from the magic—this beautiful 2-bedroom, 3-bathroom townhouse (sleeps 6) is located less than a mile from the main gates of Walt Disney World. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a couples’ retreat, or a getaway with friends, this spacious and well-appointed home offers comfort and convenience, putting you right in the heart of Florida’s top attractions.
With easy access to Disney parks, Universal Studios, world-class restaurants, and shopping, this trip is the ultimate opportunity to create lifelong memories. The best part? You can use this vacation anytime in 2025 (subject to timeshare availability), giving you the flexibility to plan your perfect escape.
Please note: Flights are not included in this package.
Join Us for a Night of Fun & Giving
The Annual Gala & Fundraiser Auction isn’t just an opportunity to win amazing prizes—it’s a chance to support St. Pius X Parish School while enjoying a spectacular night out! This year’s Casino Knight theme will bring all the glitz, glamour, and excitement of a high-stakes evening filled with games, food, entertainment, and, of course, an incredible auction.
Don’t miss your chance to bid on this once-in-a-lifetime Florida vacation and other exclusive items—all while helping to support our school’s mission and programs.
Get Your Tickets Today!
Seats are limited, and this is an event you won’t want to miss. Secure your tickets now, invite your friends, and get ready for an unforgettable evening!
Date: Friday, February 22
Location: St. Pius X Social Center
Theme: Casino Knight
Join us, place your bids, and let’s make this year’s event the best one yet!
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St. Pius X School has a New Uniform Provider
St. Pius X Parish School is excited to announce a transition to a new uniform provider, Schoolbelles, beginning in 2025. This change comes as Dennis Uniform, our previous uniform supplier, has closed its doors after over a century of service. The closure follows a recent court order appointing a receiver to manage the company’s remaining assets and oversee its liquidation process.
We understand that this change may raise questions, and we are committed to ensuring a smooth transition for our families. Schoolbelles offers a wide selection of high-quality uniforms and excellent customer service, ensuring a seamless experience moving forward. Families can explore the new uniform options and place orders through Schoolbelles’ dedicated portal for St. Pius X at schoolbelles.com.
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Message from the SPX Student Council | | |
This Week in Photos: This Week in Photos – Celebrations, Learning, and Special Guests!
This week at St. Pius X Parish School was filled with milestones, creativity, and joy!
We started by celebrating 100 days of school, where our hallways were filled with laughter, "centenarians," and costumes that took us 100 years into the future (or the past)! Just remember, when chatting with our centenarian friends, speak up—their hearing isn’t what it used to be!
The week was also filled with special events and celebrations:
Baby Shower for Mrs. Albright: Our teachers gathered to celebrate Mrs. Albright, who is just DAYS away from welcoming baby number two! It was a heartwarming celebration of joy, love, and well wishes for the growing Albright family.
4th-Grade State Floats: Our 4th-grade students showcased their hard work and creativity by presenting their state floats. These displays were not only impressive but a testament to the students' pride in their states and their research skills!
Guest Speaker for Dental Health Month: The 4th graders also had the privilege of learning from a guest speaker during Dental Health Month. Students discovered the importance of dental hygiene and healthy habits while engaging in an informative and interactive session.
8th-Grade Art Time: Our 8th graders channeled their creativity during art class, creating beautiful and imaginative pieces that highlight their artistic talents.
It’s been a busy and exciting week filled with celebrations, learning, and community. Check out this week’s photos to relive the highlights!
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School Board 1st Trimester Survey Results
Thank you to all parents that took the time to complete the School Board’s 1st Trimester Survey. The School Board reviewed the results at the January School Board meeting.
The “grades” given were overall very positive. There were several themes to the feedback, summarized below:
- School Environment & Safety and Extracurricular Activities received the highest marks, with 74% of respondents scoring an “A” letter grade for each respective category.
- Communication - parents have noticed a positive change in official school communication this year, though the amount can be overwhelming at times.
- Resources and Facilities (e.g., classrooms, technology, grounds) received the most “B” grades with 40% of responses.
Feedback and survey results were shared directly with St. Pius X Parish School Leadership. This feedback serves a critical role in the ongoing growth and improvement of the school. We appreciate the parent community’s involvement in this process.
Want to share additional feedback? The School Board wants to hear it!
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Stay Connected with the PSA
Valentine's Day Parties
On Thursday, February 13th, we will be having our classroom Valentine's Day parties. Preschool through Kindergarten will be from 10:00am-11:00am and 1st through 8th Grade will be from 2:00-3:00pm. If you have any questions, please reach out to the PSA!
Thank you to all the parents who attended our monthly meeting last night! An email will go out with our newsletter and a recap of the meeting,
Back by popular demand—Battle of the Books returns on April 30th from 3:15 to 5:00 PM!
Open to students in 3rd through 8th grade, this exciting, book-based competition challenges teams to answer questions about a selection of books. The game format fosters a love of reading, promotes teamwork, and encourages good sportsmanship.
Teams and permission slips are due TODAY!
Battle of the Books Packet Link Below
Savers
Help St. Pius X raise funds by donating items you no longer need!
The grade that donates the most bags will win a pizza party! We are collecting books and small housewares, which must fit in a small to medium box to be accepted. Our goal is to collect 6,000 pounds of donations!
Drop-off times at the St. Pius Church parking lot:
📅 April 8th | 2:45 PM – 4:00 PM
📅 April 9th | 7:30 AM – 8:35 AM
Volunteers Sign Up Below
Teacher Appreciation Campaign
Let’s show some extra love to our teachers and staff! Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated and go directly toward activities like lunches, treats, and more.
Contribute to the Teacher Appreciation Campaign (your black and gold image)
Important Dates for February
- 2/11: Knights Out to Dinner (Rebel)
- 2/13: Valentine's Day Classroom Parties
- 2/22: SPX Auction Night--Casino
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Super Bowl Squares Are Live – Get in the Game!
Are you ready for some football—and a chance to win big while supporting St. Pius X? The SPX Dads’ Club Super Bowl Squares fundraiser is officially open!
How It Works:
For each square you purchase, you’ll have a shot at winning $750 based on the last digit of each team’s score at the end of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd quarters, plus the final score! It’s a fun and easy way to add excitement to the big game while supporting our school community.
How to Play:
🎟 Buy your squares through the link below.
📩 After purchase, you’ll receive an email with a link and passcode to select your square(s).
📝 Use your first and last name when choosing your squares.
🏆 Don’t wait—these squares will go fast! Secure yours today and get ready for a thrilling Super Bowl Sunday!
Dads' Club Meeting Coming up
Hey dads! 👋 The Dads Club is back next Thursday, 2/13, at 8PM in the Learning Resource Room (formerly the library). If you’re new here—welcome! We’re a growing group of 50+ school dads from all grades, building friendships, networking, and making a difference through fundraising & events.
💡 We made Trunk or Treat happen in October, currently pushing SuperBowl Squares, and we’ve got BIG plans ahead! Want in? Join us next week, meet the crew, and get a sneak peek at what’s coming.
No pressure, just good people, great ideas, and a chance to be part of something awesome for our school. Adult beverages are welcome. See you there? 🍻
👉 RSVP or just show up!
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Save on Tuition with Manna Gift Cards!
Act now to get your Manna before the holidays! Last chance to get yuor manna order in time for the holidays in Dec. 15th.
Shopping on Amazon? Need to grab groceries, fill up your gas tank, or treat yourself to a meal out? With Manna, you can earn credits toward your St. Pius X tuition while shopping!
Here’s how it works:
- Sign up for a Manna account here.
- Place your order by 11:00 a.m. every Monday.
- Receive physical gift cards on Thursdays, sent directly home.
- Get eGift cards instantly for on-the-go purchases.
Plus, a percentage of the face value of each gift card you buy is credited directly to your SPX tuition. It’s a simple way to save while supporting our school!
Have questions? Contact us at: manna@stpiuslombard.org
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Catholic Education Foundation (CEF)
2025-26 Financial Aid Opportunities
Due to the unfortunate loss of the Illinois Tax Credit Scholarship Program last year, we expect that there will again be limited scholarship funds this year, and families should apply as soon as possible.
Catholic Education Foundation Scholarship
The Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) scholarship program is designed for K-12 students with demonstrated financial need currently enrolled, or applying for the next school year, in any CEF-supported Catholic schools within the Diocese of Joliet.
Application Deadline: April 1
Family Notification: April 15
Apply Below
Kazma Family Scholarship
Current 8th grade students (High School Class of 2029) who plan to attend a Catholic high school within the Diocese of Joliet may apply for the Kazma Family Scholarship.
Application Deadline: March 3
Family Notification: June 1
Apply Below
ApplyContact Shirley Roberson at (815) 221-6127 or sroberson@dioceseofjoliet.org with any questions about the application process
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Frances and John Schweihs
Catholic Education
Scholarship
2025-2026 School Year
Frances and John Schweihs were long-time parishioners of St. Alexander Parish, and both were involved in many ministries. Frances graduated from St. Alexander School in 1930, and the six Schweihs children all graduated from St. Alexander School, as did three of their grandchildren.
The Frances and John Schweihs Catholic Education Scholarship is an annual scholarship, and is intended to be a source of aid to families in need who desire to have the same strong Catholic Education that Fran and John sacrificed to have for their own children. Now John and Fran’s family are helping to make this possible for St. Alexander and St. Pius X Parish families.
This $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a parish family from either St. Alexander or St. Pius X. In addition to the application, families must apply for aid through the FACTS Management program of the Diocese of Joliet (https://factsmgt.com/).
Applications will be available on our website or in the Parish Office starting February 15, 2025. Please return them to the Parish Office, attention Peggy Noah.
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Knightly News: SPX Knights Basketball Season Update!
The SPX Knights basketball teams have been hard at work this season, showing grit, determination, and teamwork on the court. Here's a quick update on how our teams are doing so far:
Boys Teams
- Boys 8A is leading the pack with an impressive 7-2 record, boasting a dominant +140 point differential.
- Boys 7A and 8B are also shining with solid performances, each at 7-2, and are climbing their divisional standings.
- Boys 6A1 is holding strong with a 5-4 record, while Boys 6B continues to grow through valuable game-time experience.
Girls Teams
- Girls 8A stands out with a 6-3 record, supported by a +55 point differential, showcasing their strong defensive and offensive efforts.
- Girls 7A and 5B are putting up fierce competition despite challenging games, while Girls 8B continues to fight hard in their matchups.
Across all levels, our teams are working together, improving their skills, and representing St. Pius X Parish School with pride. Whether it’s a win or a hard-fought game, the SPX Knights always play with heart and sportsmanship.
We’re excited to see how the rest of the season unfolds! Great job, Knights—keep up the fantastic work!
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Track & Field Registration is Open!
Attention, St. Pius X families! Registration for the Knights Track & Field Competitive League and Developmental League is officially open for the 2024-2025 season. Whether your child is a seasoned athlete or just starting out, there’s a place for them to join the fun, improve their skills, and represent the Knights with pride.
Competitive League (Grades 5-8)
For students in grades 5-8, the Track & Field Competitive League offers an exciting opportunity to compete in the Suburban Parochial League (SPL). The season begins in March and runs through May, with practices held four times a week at SPX and the Willowbrook High School Field House
- Registration Fee: $65
- Season Start: March TBD
- Singlet Requirement: All athletes are required to purchase a singlet for $30, which can also be used for future Cross Country and Track seasons. Yours to keep.
- Events Include: Sprints, distance running, jumps, throws, and more.
Developmental League (Grades 3-4)
For younger athletes in grades 3-4, the Developmental League introduces the fundamentals of Track & Field in a fun, supportive environment.
- Registration Fee: $50
- Season Start: March TBD
- Practice Schedule: TBD.
- Special Perk: All participants receive a free T-shirt/uniform!
Why Join Track & Field?
Track & Field is a sport for everyone—whether your child loves to sprint, enjoys endurance challenges, or wants to try new events like long jump or shot put. At St. Pius X, we focus on skill development, teamwork, and building confidence, all while having fun and competing in a supportive, faith-filled community.
Don’t Miss Out!
- Registration Deadline: March 1, 2025 (A $100 late fee applies to registrations after this date.)
- Sports/School Physical Requirement: Students must have a valid physical on file in the school office.
Register today and join the Knights for an unforgettable season of Track & Field! Let’s make this a year to remember. Go Knights!
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Knights Athletics Making a Difference
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported SPX Knights’ Athletics Hoops for the Troops event! Your generosity and enthusiasm made a meaningful impact, helping us support Fisher House at Hines VA, which provides comfort and care to veterans and their families.
We are honored to share this letter of gratitude from Fisher House, acknowledging our community’s dedication to those who have served our country. Your kindness and participation truly made a difference!
Great job, Knights! Your spirit of service and teamwork continues to make St. Pius X Parish School a special place.
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Service Hours Made Simple with SPX Service Society
Looking for ways to fulfill your service hours? The SPX Service Society has you covered! Looking for an act of kindness to do as a family or individual?
Acting as a central hub for community outreach, the SPX Service Society offers numerous opportunities for confirmandi, students, and families alike to volunteer and make a positive impact.
We’re excited to introduce Feed My Starving Children as our newest opportunity to serve others as a community! This hands-on experience allows families to come together and pack life-saving meals for children in need around the globe. It’s more than just an act of kindness—it’s a chance to embody our mission of faith and service while teaching our children the power of giving back. Let’s come together to make a tangible impact and share the joy of hope with those who need it most. Sign up today and be part of this meaningful new tradition!
Additionally, the Service Society’s site features various other ways to get involved or ASK FOR SERVICE. Fill our our "Request Service" form and you will be contacted to see if we can help you out.
With easy-to-access options, fulfilling your service hours has never been more convenient. Embrace the spirit of giving this season, and join us in making a difference! Visit the Service Society page to view all current opportunities and sign up today. Whether you’re interested in volunteering with local charities, assisting at events, or joining seasonal projects, there’s a place for everyone to contribute.
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Children's Mass Volunteers Needed
Periodically throughout the year, Religious Education students and St. Pius X School students serve as Lectors, Gift Bearers and Readers of the Prayer of the Faithful (petitions). During these Masses, the homily is tailored for children and families.
Please sign up your children to help in a role of your choice for the appropriate Mass. After you've signed them up and as we get closer to the date of the Mass, you will be emailed with more detailed instructions according to the role you've chosen for your child. In addition to receiving these instructions, we also ask that you arrive 30 minutes before the Mass so that your child has the opportunity to rehearse.
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Calling All Parent Volunteers: Lunch Helpers Needed!
We are looking for parent volunteers to join our Lunch Helpers team and make a difference in the school day! Volunteering as a Lunch Helper is a small commitment that has a big impact, supporting our teachers and staff and helping ensure a fun, safe, and organized lunch experience for our students.
Whether you have little ones in Preschool or students in 8th grade, there are opportunities to lend a hand. Lunch Helpers assist with supervising, helping students with meals, and fostering a positive environment for all. It’s also a fantastic way to get involved and see your child and their classmates in action!
If you’re interested, please sign up using the links below:
Thank you for your support in making each lunch period enjoyable for our students. We couldn’t do it without you!
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St. Pius X Catholic Community | |
Our Young Catholics Need Your Prayers
We are searching for Prayer Angels to accompany our Confirmation Candidates and Communicants as they prepare for their sacraments in April & May respectively.
Simply sign up for a student, add them to your daily prayers, and write a card or note to the student letting them know you are accompanying them on their journey with your prayers. Cards can be dropped off at the Parish or School Office through the end of February. Please be sure to write the name of the student (first name, last initial) and sacrament on the envelope.
Please review the available slots by clicking on one of the links below
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Confirmation Robe Measurement
Please remember to fill out the following form by January 24th. You will need to know the Candidate's height in feet & inches and their Confirmation saint name:
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Letter from Bishop Hicks Regarding the
Youth Conference this Summer
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Help Bring a New Keyboard to Our Music Ministry!
Kirsten Currie Tait, Music Director
Have you ever felt that the songs we sing during Mass are just a little too high to comfortably sing? You’re not alone! Many parishioners have shared this thought, and even as a trained singer, I completely agree!
That’s why we’re working to bring a new keyboard to our Music Ministry—one that features the best realistic piano sound and, most importantly, will allow us to adjust the key to a more singable level for our congregation.
We need your support to make this possible! As of February 4, we have raised $2,300 toward our total goal of $5,800. If you would like to help us reach the finish line, please consider making a contribution. Donations can be placed in an envelope marked “New Keyboard” and dropped in the collection basket.
Thank you for your generosity and for helping us enhance our worship experience through music!
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