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Volume 1 | Issue 24
(click the link at the bottom of the email to see entire newsletter)
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Next Week's School Calendar
3/2 - 3/8
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Sunday
Monday
- Homework Club (After School)
- Basketball Practice (Evening)
Tuesday
- Choir Rehearsal (Lunch)
- Intermediate Band Practice (During School)
- Advance Band (After School)
- Basketball Practice (Evening)
Wednesday
- Full Choir at Ash Wednesday Mass (Arrive 8am)
- Chess Club (Lunch)
- Beginner Band Practice (During School)
- Intermediate Band Practice (After School)
- Homework Club (After School)
- Basketball Practice (Evening)
Thursday
- Basketball Practice (Evening)
- PSA Meeting (Evening)
Friday
- Teachers' Institute Day / NO SCHOOL
- Band Practice (TBD)
Saturday
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Owen’s Observations
Dear Parents,
We are excited to share that our school is very active, offering numerous activities and a wealth of learning opportunities for our students! As we progress through the trimester, here are several important updates for parents, especially for those with an 8th-grade student:
1. No Late Homework Policy: During the last trimester, we will implement a no-late homework policy. This change is intended to prepare students for high school expectations, where timely submissions are crucial.
2. Attendance and Punctuality: Maintaining excellent attendance and punctuality is essential for student success. As principal, I am obligated to report any student who has more than 10% absenteeism or tardiness to the Diocese of Joliet. Unlike public schools, we do not have access to a truant officer, so the Diocese will intervene when necessary. Therefore, I will send letters to the parents of students meeting or exceeding this absenteeism threshold.
3. Pickup Procedures: When collecting your children, please pull up as far as possible to ensure a smooth traffic flow during pickup times. This practice helps prevent gaps that can block cars from moving efficiently along the line.
I appreciate your cooperation in these matters. Together, we can support our students' educational journeys effectively!
Warm regards,
Dennis Owen
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Welcome to the St. Pius X Family, Baby Aiden James Albright!
The St. Pius X community is overjoyed to welcome its newest (and tiniest) Knight!
Baby Aiden James Albright made his grand entrance into the world on February 17th, weighing 7 lbs 11 oz—already proving he’s strong and full of Knight Spirit!
We send our warmest congratulations to the Albright family on their precious new addition. May your home be filled with love, laughter, and endless baby snuggles as you embark on this beautiful journey with Aiden.
The St. Pius X family is here to celebrate with you, and we can’t wait to meet this little blessing. Welcome to the world, Baby Aiden!
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What a Knight!
We are truly grateful for the incredible support and generosity shown at our Gala & Fundraiser Auction! Thanks to each and every one of you—our attendees, donors, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters—the evening was a wonderful success, filled with Knight Spirit and community joy.
While we are still finalizing expenses, we are thrilled with the event’s success and the impact it will have on our school. Your participation and generosity help ensure that St. Pius X Parish School continues to thrive and provide exceptional opportunities for our students.
If you won any items or baskets that still need to be picked up, please contact the school office at schooloffice@stpiuslombard.org or call (630) 627-2353 to arrange pickup.
Once again, thank you for being part of such a special evening. Your support truly makes a difference, and we are blessed to have such a wonderful school community.
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Enroll for the 2025-26 School Year Now!
Existing St. Pius X Families, log in through your FACTS portal to register for next year.
Remember to 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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March Fun Lunch is Her
– Now Featuring Pasta!
Get ready for another month of Fun Lunches at St. Pius X! We’re excited to announce a delicious new offering on the menu—pasta!
March’s Fun Lunch lineup is packed with student favorites, making lunchtime something to look forward to. Whether your child loves classic options or is eager to try our new pasta selection, there’s something for everyone.
Ordering is easy! Simply sign up and enjoy the convenience of a hot, tasty meal without the morning lunch prep.
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Save the Date: St. Pius X at the Lombard Lilac Parade!
Calling all dancers, athletes, scouts, band members, and more! St. Pius X is excited to announce our participation in the Lombard Lilac Parade on May 18th—pending application approval. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our school pride and bring the St. Pius X community together for a fun and memorable event!
Stay tuned for more details on how you can get involved, what to expect, and how we’ll represent St. Pius X in this beloved local tradition. We can’t wait to see our students, families, and friends coming together to make this a fantastic day!
Mark your calendars and get ready to march with us on May 18th! More information coming soon.
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Important Traffic Update: Madison Street Closure Beginning March 3
Attention St. Pius X families! Please be aware that Madison Street will be closed from Addison Avenue to Michigan Avenue starting March 3, due to construction by Trine Construction as part of the Jackson Area Improvement Project in Villa Park. The closure is expected to last two months, weather permitting, and a detour will be in place to help drivers navigate around the area.
Families who travel through this route for school drop-offs and pickups should plan ahead and allow for extra time, especially during busy morning and afternoon hours. The detour route will redirect traffic using Washington Boulevard and Ardmore Avenue.
We encourage everyone to drive safely and follow posted detour signs. Thank you for your patience as this important project is completed. Stay tuned for updates, and let’s continue to keep our school community safe on the roads!
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Stay Connected with the PSA
Join us for our PSA Meeting on Thursday, March 6, at 7 PM in the Learning Resource Room!
We’ll be chatting about some exciting upcoming events, including:
✨ Family Knight
🍽️ Knights Out to Dinner
🎨 Art Fair
💙 Mother-Son Event
📚 Battle of the Books
This is a great opportunity to learn more, share ideas, and get involved! Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or just curious, we'd love to see you there.
Come connect with other parents and help make these events amazing! 💙⚔️
Knights Out to Dinner: Chipotle | March 4
Order online for pickup using code: G6MF9AF, or show the flyer below in the restaurant. For this KOTD event, Chipotle requires you to present the flyer when ordering.
Please print the flyer here
Family Knight Out: Bingo | March 11 | 6:30pm | Social Center
Join us for Family Knight Out: Bingo! Register using the link below. Volunteers needed for setup, event support, and cleanup.
Savers Fundraiser
Support St. Pius X by donating books and small housewares (must fit in a small/medium box). The grade that donates the most bags wins a pizza party! Our goal: 6,000 lbs of donations!
📍 Drop-off Times (St. Pius Church Parking Lot)
📅 April 8 | 2:45 PM – 4:00 PM
📅 April 9 | 7:30 AM – 8:35 AM
Battle of the Books: April 30 | 3:15-5:30pm | SPX
We are looking for volunteers to help read questions and keep time during the battles. Please please sign up below.
Important Dates for March
- 3/4: KOTD Chipotle
- 3/6: PSA Meeting at 7pm
- 3/11: FKO: Bingo 6:30pm
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Save on Tuition with Manna Gift Cards!
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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Knights Wrap Up Regular Season, Set Sights on Playoffs!
The St. Pius X Knights have closed out an exciting regular season, with several teams finishing strong and earning top spots in their divisions. As we head into the playoffs this weekend, we look back on the hard work, perseverance, and teamwork that have defined this season.
One of the standout performances came from the Girls 8A team also had an impressive run, finishing in second place with a 9-3 record and a +110 point differential, showing both offensive and defensive strength. The Girls 8B team wrapped up their season with a 6-6 record, securing first place in their division, while the Boys 8B team battled hard to a 7-5 finish, just missing the top three.
On the boys’ side, the 8A team put together a solid season, ending with an 8-4 record and a +138 point differential, securing a third-place finish in their division. The 7A and 7B teams mirrored that success, both finishing 8-4 and ranking among the top teams in their divisions. The Boys 6A2 team also had a strong showing with an 8-4 record, demonstrating their growth and competitive edge.
While some teams faced challenges this season, their dedication and commitment to improving each game did not go unnoticed. The Boys 6B and Boys 5A teams fought through tough schedules, and though wins were hard to come by, their effort and resilience embodied the true spirit of St. Pius X athletics.
With playoffs kicking off this weekend, the Knights are ready to take their talents to the next level. Multiple teams have the potential to make deep runs, and we’re hopeful to see them competing for championships next weekend.
A huge thank you goes out to all our players, coaches, and families for their dedication, support, and sportsmanship throughout the season. Now, it’s time to bring that Knight Spirit to the postseason! Let’s cheer on our teams as they fight for victory!
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Last Chance to Register for Track & Field!
Time is running out! This is your last chance to register for the St. Pius X Track & Field team before the March 1 deadline. Don’t miss the opportunity for your child to build endurance, strength, and teamwork while competing in a fun and supportive environment. Whether they’re sprinters, distance runners, jumpers, or throwers, there’s a place for everyone on the team! Sign up now to be part of an exciting season.
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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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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Some News from our Friends at St. Francis High School
SHADOW at SFHS – 7th & 8th grade students see classes with a student host, have lunch, and experience college prep with a Franciscan spirit.
Select days, Monday-Friday
CAMPUS TOURS (Talk & Tour) – Visit for a tour during school hours.
Select days, Monday-Friday
MIDDLE SCHOOL NIGHTS
Spring Musical – The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical - March 13, 7:00 p.m.
Boys Volleyball – May 15, 6:00 p.m.
SPARTAN SHOWCASE – Introduction to the SFHS Curriculum, co-curricular opportunities and experience, and an overview of our admissions process.
April 9, 9:00 a.m.
7TH GRADE NIGHT - All 7th graders are invited to a fun-packed evening at St. Francis High School! - Meet current SFHS students and fellow 7th grade future Spartans - Participate in team-building activities - Compete in the Spartan Amazing Race.
April 25, 6:30 p.m.
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