St. Philip's Kid Reporters on the Big 12 Conference from the Cowboys Stadium

Our students had an incredible experience as "kid reporters" at the recent Big 12 Conference Media Days! Our young journalists had the opportunity to visit the event at the Cowboys Stadium in Arlington where they conducted interviews, operated cameras and sound equipment, and interacted with college football players, coaches, cheerleaders, mascots, and fellow reporters. It was an exhilarating day filled with learning, excitement, and fun! 

Our students embraced their roles as budding journalists, displaying remarkable professionalism and enthusiasm throughout the event. They asked insightful questions that showcased their curiosity and passion for the game and learned about the behind-the-scenes work involved in media production, gaining hands-on experience that broadened their understanding of the field.



We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to LDWW for providing this extraordinary opportunity. As we reflect on this remarkable experience, we are reminded of the importance of providing our students with unique learning opportunities that ignite their passion and broaden their horizons. Stay tuned for more updates and exciting opportunities as we continue to inspire and empower our students to reach for the stars! 

St. Philip's Summer Fun 

Summer Camp at St. Philip’s is always an action-packed adventure, and this year was no exception. Between our sports clinics, workshops, and percussion camp, our camp attendees, staff, and volunteers had a blast. 

 In case you missed it, here’s a few highlights of our summer: 

• Our friends at Brighter Bites provided fresh produce weekly for the first half of the summer. 
• Patrick Flanagan and friends led a week of Lego camps, inspiring our scholars to build and create. 
• At the lacrosse and volleyball clinics young athletes practiced with the pros to sharpen their skills and build confidence. 

Thank you to our Americorps summer staff members for all they did to make this summer so special for our young people!

Several students participated in summer camps off campus like Kids Across America. KAA Kamps is a Christian sports camp where they empower youth to become leaders that will revolutionize their communities.

We also sent ten St. Philip’s students to Camp Champions thanks to a generous discount they provided us. Camp Champions is ranked as one of the best overnight summer camps in Texas. The camp offered a variety of indoor and outdoor activities for students to spend two weeks away from home in a fun, electronics-free environment. 

UPCOMING EVENTS

Back to School Bash

We’re excited to welcome our new and returning families to meet their teachers and celebrate the start of a new school year with us at the Back to School Bash on August 13th.

Join us on campus to drop off your school supplies and fellowship with the Saints!

Parent Tech Night

On August 29th, we will connect with our students’ parents and guardians to introduce them to the technology we will use to teach in the upcoming school year.

We’ll answer any questions you may have regarding the devices and computer programs your students will be using.

Save the Date: North Texas Giving Day 

Mark your calendars for September 21st, as we gear up for North Texas Giving Day, an incredible opportunity to support our mission and make a lasting impact. Join us as we come together to empower our community and create positive change.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

South Dallas Showcase and Competition

We partnered with the All-Stars Talent Show Network to wrap summer camp up on a high note with the South Dallas Showcase and Competition.

The show was amazing thanks to our participants, volunteers, and awesome partner. Read more about the project here.

Senior Dance Lessons

The amazing Ms. Myra Jones held line dance lessons in the St. Philip's Snyder Activity Center for our beloved senior citizens.

The participants had a wonderful time moving and grooving with friends and appreciated the chance to get active and learn some new moves.

PREPARING FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR

We're excited to introduce our 2023-2024 PSA Board Members:

President – Sherilyn K. Smith (Timothy, 6^th grade) 

Vice-President – Kay Honeyman (Lily, 7^th grade) 

Corresponding Secretary – Chevondolyn Williams (Ailey, 6^th grade)  

Recording Secretary - King Tawiah Jr. (Adriella, 4^th grade) 

Treasurer – Oscar Joyner (Yohana, 2^nd grade; Lalibela, 4^th grade) 

Fundraiser Chair – Ayanna Coleman (Alexander, PK3; Terry, 1^st grade) 

Co-Fundraiser – Marlena English (Forest, PK3) 

Booster Club, Chair – Tek Webster (Colyn, 3^rd grade; Coren, 6^th grade) 

Booster Club, Co-Chair – Arica Smith (Donavan, 6^th grade) 

Dad’s Club, Chair – Mark J. Murrell Sr. (Mark, 7^th grade; Eden, 8^th grade) 

Dad’s Club, Co-Chair – Emmanuel Mutizwa 

Experiential Chair – Shauna Willis (Kirk, 6^th grade) 

Fine Arts, Chair – Cristina Spruell (Cataleya, 2^nd grade) 

Mission Mom, Chair – Darnetta Forteau (Margot, 6^th grade; Quinn, 7^th grade) 

Mission Mom, Co-Chair – Detitria Mutizwa

Parent Liaison - Ametria Maryland (Kaleb, 1^st grade; Kamryn, 3^rd grade) 

Social Media, Chair – TBD 

Social Media, Co-Chair – TBD 

Fine Arts, Co-Chair - TBD 

Parliamentarian – TBD 

Academic Support Tutors Needed! 

Are you passionate about education and making a difference in students' lives? We are excited to announce that we are seeking dedicated academic support tutors to join our school's team! 

As a Title 1 Tutor, you will play a vital role in providing personalized academic assistance to our students, helping them thrive and achieve their fullest potential. The minimum pay rate for this rewarding position is $25 per hour. 

If you have a strong commitment to student success and possess excellent teaching skills, we invite you to be part of our educational journey. Join us in shaping young minds and fostering a love for learning! Please contact Deana Wall at dwall@stphilips.com to find out how to get started if this is something you are interested in.

Ms. Lalena’s Professional Development 

Over the summer, our awesome Latin teacher Ms. Lalena had the pleasure of visiting Europe for professional development. While in Europe, she was able to explore creative approaches to teaching Latin to her students.

Last year, Ms. Lalena introduced her students at St. Philip’s to Julius Caesar, Marcus Cicero, and the two poets Vergil and Horace. She also allowed students to read mythology such as “Daedalus & Icarus”, so her trip to Belgium, which included a viewing of the Dutch Renaissance painting entitled “Landscape of Icarus Falling” by Pietr Brueghel was surely a full-circle moment. 

Ms. Lalena believes that studying Latin gives students a wide scope of understanding in art, the sciences, architecture, literature, philosophy, history, and language, and she says that she is excited to continue sharing more examples of the influence Latin has had on multiple generations of thinkers like Toni Morrison, Mark Zuckerberg, J.K. Rowling, and Oscar de la Renta with St. Philip’s students. We appreciate Ms. Lalena’s dedication to broadening her knowledge base so that she can continue to expand her students’ minds. 

ALUMNI UPDATES

We are so proud to announce that one of our alums, Oni Burrell-Colston, has published a board game called WAMO: The Friends Edition. This captivating 2-in-1 game redefines social interactions among friends, blending elements of "Truth or Dare” with a touch of “Dear Diary” to create an unparalleled experience for players of all backgrounds. 

We’re elated to see Oni bring this extraordinary idea to life and provide a safe and entertaining space for friends to bond. This groundbreaking game will be available for purchase exclusively on the WAMO website this month. Please show our phenomenal alum your support by adding WAMO to your game night itinerary and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey of connection and discovery with WAMO: The Friends Edition! 

Guidance for Graduates

Are you an alumnus? We’re seeking guidance for our upcoming graduates and would love to hear from you! Take the quick survey here.

If you went to St. Philip’s or participated in Athletics at St. Philip’s School and Community Center, we want to hear from you! We would love to stay in touch and continue to support you in all your future endeavors. Please send updates, graduation announcements, and contact information to Breanna Turnley bturnley@stphilips.com 

The Lacrosse Clinic is Back!

The kids in our community had the opportunity to participate in another lacrosse clinic this month, thanks to a generous $60,000 grant from the Stephen D. Menzies Rising Youth Athletics Foundation. We are now hosting a Lacrosse Clinic every third week of the month as we prepare to play in the Bridge Lacrosse League. 

On behalf of St. Philip's and our entire community, we want to express our deepest gratitude to the Menzies Foundation for their thoughtful grant and their invaluable support which will enable us to continue embarking on the exciting journey of redeveloping and launching our lacrosse program!  

With this grant, we will be able to provide a transformative lacrosse experience for our students, fostering their physical well-being, teamwork, and personal growth. We are incredibly grateful for the Menzies Foundation's dedication to empowering educational initiatives and fostering excellence in sports. Together, we will create an environment where our students can flourish, learn valuable life skills, and discover their full potential.

Setting Up for Wins 

St. Philip’s hosted an all-day Volleyball Clinic this month, and it was a smashing hit! A group of more than 30 kids learned volleyball basics and practiced their serves, passes, and approaches. 

Our middle school volleyball team’s first game will be at Zion Lutheran on August 31st. The more support we have present, the better! We’re excited to see what our Saints serve up on the volleyball court. 

Football Registration Happening Now

Registration to join the Saints football team is open to all kids ages 3 to 12 years old until August 18th. Register soon as practice has already started. Contact Coach Eddie Fletcher for sponsorship opportunities. Our first games of the season will be on September 2nd, and it will be a home game. Please spread the word and come show our Saints support!

Cheer and Dance Registration is Now Open! 

The St. Philip’s Cheer and Dance squad is back this year with new high-energy routines! Girls ages 4-12 are invited to sign up for a season of fun. Saints Cheer & Dance is not just about performing; it's a sisterhood that uplifts and encourages each other. By becoming a member of this team, girls will gain lifelong friendships and develop valuable skills in teamwork, discipline, and leadership.

Register today! 

WE NEED YOU - Volunteers Make the World Go Round 

Fresh Food Transporters Needed! 



Volunteers continue to pick up surplus meals daily from Snap Kitchen at Mockingbird/Skillman. These meals are distributed through Aunt Bette’s Community Pantry, and through other nearby partners when our pantry is closed. Please sign up here if you are interested in helping with this effort. Pick-ups are in the mornings. 

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Summer at St. Philip's

We are immensely grateful for the volunteer involvement we received this summer. From coaching daily workshops to supporting at the South Dallas Showcase & Competition, our community volunteers had our backs the whole way!  

Aunt Bette’s Community Pantry

is Moving! 

We’re glad to announce that our community pantry is set to open in mid-August. After a temporary closure in July for the transition, we're back and better than ever, ready to serve our neighbors with improved facilities and enhanced services. 

Our new location, just 81 steps away from the previous one, offers more space and efficiency to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for everyone in need. With updated facilities, we're dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those facing food insecurity in our community. 



While we understand the temporary closure may have impacted some, we have been working hard to minimize disruptions and help those in need find alternative arrangements during July. If you or someone you know requires assistance, please call 214-421-5221, and we'll be there to support you. 

Welcome Saints 

St. Philip’s is excited to welcome new and familiar faces for our 2023-2024 school year! Applications for the 2024-2025 school year open November 1st, 2023. For questions about our admissions process, please contact admissions@stphilips.com

You could win $1,000 for reviewing your St. Philip's School and Community Center experience!

Reviews and testimonials that publicly share stories about parent, student, and teacher experiences at St. Philip's are critical for helping new families discover our school and understand what it’s really like.

We would greatly appreciate if you left a brief review on Niche to help other families consider St. Philip's for their child. 

FRIENDS OF ST. PHILIP'S

Friends of St. Philip’s continues to generously support the mission of St. Philip’s through various volunteer opportunities, including the food pantry, athletics, faculty and staff appreciations and tutoring. 

Renew Your Membership 

If you have been an annual member in the past, it’s time to renew your membership or if you would like to join us (memberships begin at $50) please click here. 

WE'RE LOOKING FOR GREAT TALENT

Join Our Team 

YOU are our best source of referrals! If you know someone who is interested in a career opportunity within our organization that holds these Core Values: (1) Servant Heart (2) Respectful (3) Trustworthy (4) Pursuing Excellence (5) Collaborative, and (6) Dedicated – send them to our website to learn more! 

Experience Feedback Box

We want to hear from you! We now have an anonymous form that can be submitted electronically to offer feedback regarding your experience, suggestions, or compliments.

How You Can Help

For those who have asked what you can do to support St. Philip’s – PRAY and DONATE. Our needs and that of those we serve continue and grow daily. You can make an online charitable donation here to support our families.

www.stphilips1600.org