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Volume 1 | Issue 13

Weekly News & Updates

School Calendar

11/24 - 11/30

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Sunday

  • Full Choir at Mass (10am)
  • Adult Basketball Open Gym (Sign up here)

Monday

  • Thanksgiving Break (No School)
  • Basketball Practice

Tuesday

  • Thanksgiving Break (No School)
  • Beginner Band Makeup Practice
  • Advance Band Makeup Practice
  • Intermediate Band Makeup Practice
  • Basketball Practice

Wednesday

  • Thanksgiving Break (No School)
  • Basketball Practice

Thursday

  • Happy Thanksgiving (No School)

Friday

  • Thanksgiving Break (No School)

Saturday


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.

Mr. Owen's Update


Gratitude

In today's fast-paced world, life moves at a speed unimaginable to our grandparents. An Amazon order can arrive at your doorstep within hours, and we can travel far and wide quickly thanks to modern roads, planes, and even electric bikes! Amidst this constant rush, it’s easy to forget to pause and appreciate all the blessings we enjoy.


That’s what I love about Thanksgiving: it reminds us to take time to reflect on what we have, who we are, and the people we hold dear. It’s a moment to embrace gratitude, a practice that nourishes our souls and deepens our connection with God and others.


As we enter this season of thanksgiving, I wanted to share some wisdom from a few Catholic Saints to inspire your reflections:


  • “The secret of happiness is to live moment by moment and to thank God for all that he, in his goodness, sends to us day after day.” — St. Gianna Molla
  • “The best way to show your gratitude to God and to people is to accept everything with joy.” — St. Teresa of Calcutta
  • “A single ‘Blessed be God’ in adversity is worth more than a thousand acts of thanksgiving in prosperity.” — St. John of Ávila
  • “Prayer is an aspiration of the heart. It is a simple glance directed to heaven. It is a cry of gratitude and love in the midst of trial as well as joy.” — St. Thérèse of Lisieux
  • “Get used to lifting your heart to God, in acts of thanksgiving, many times a day. Because he gives you this and that; because you have been despised; because you haven’t what you need or because you have. Thank him for everything because everything is good.” — St. Josemaría Escrivá
  • “Remember the past with gratitude. Live the present with enthusiasm. Look forward to the future with confidence.” — Pope Saint John Paul II


I pray that your Thanksgiving is filled with joy, fellowship, and a heart overflowing with gratitude.


Click Flyer to Sign Up for Chess Club

Click Flyer to Sign Up for Spanish Club

Academic Eligibility Reminder


When we come back on December 2nd from our fall break, eligibility for school sponsored after school / extracurricular activities (e.g. clubs, sports, band) will started for the second trimester. It is essential that if your child is missing any assignments, they must go to their teacher and let them know they will have it ready when they come back on December 2nd. Students who are not maintaining a C average in all their classes will sit out for the week from December 2 to the 9th. Eligibility is measured on a weekly basis. Please discuss this with your child.


Remember that grades and assignments are kept for your viewing on the FACTS

program.

This Week in Photos:

Capturing our Pride in Pius


It’s been a busy and joyful week at St. Pius X Parish School, full of creativity, fun, and giving back! Here’s a look at some of the memorable moments we captured:


In 1st Grade, students in art class were hard at work crafting festive turkeys out of colorful construction paper, showcasing their artistic talents just in time for Thanksgiving.


In the Pre-3 classrooms, Mrs. DeFeo’s class celebrated the season with a delightful Thanksgiving feast, while Mrs. Rachubinski little ones enjoyed imaginative and energetic playtime.


Meanwhile, over in Pre-4, Mrs. Igoe’s students used dry erase boards to dream up and "bake" their own creative confections, proving that imagination has no limits in the classroom!


We also caught some amazing kindergarten learning moments in both Mrs. Richardson’s and Mrs. Damitz’s classrooms, where curiosity and discovery are always on the menu.


Our Student Council was in action this week, hosting a Baked Sale to raise funds for Catholic Charities' hurricane relief efforts. Their dedication to service and giving back is a wonderful example of living out our faith in action.


In Mrs. Erl’s classroom, students created their own mylar-style balloons to decorate their space, adding a touch of whimsy and creativity to their learning environment.


Our 8th graders brought the generous amount of goods brought in for the St Vincent DePaul Pantry over to the church.


These moments—and countless others—remind us why St. Pius X Parish School is such a special place. Thank you to our students, teachers, and families for bringing so much joy and purpose to our school community this week!

This Week's Photos

We’re Almost Done! Keep the Butter Braid Momentum Going!


Butter Braid sales are in full swing, and thanks to your incredible efforts, we’ve raised $5,782 so far! While we’re thrilled with this progress, we’re still a little short of halfway to our goal of $12,000. Let’s make a final push to ensure we reach our target and continue supporting the amazing programs and property improvements at St. Pius X Parish School.


Use this opportunity over the Thanksgiving holiday to talk to friends and family and see if they will help support this great cause!


What’s in it for YOU?

The stakes are high, and the competition is heating up! The grade that sells the most Butter Braids will win a catered Chick-fil-A lunch. There’s no better way to add some friendly rivalry to this delicious fundraiser while making a lasting impact on our school.


What’s in it for SPX?

We’re excited to share that the proceeds from our Butter Braid sales will be dedicated to enhancing the safety and security of our school. The funds raised will help us purchase important emergency safety equipment to ensure we’re well-prepared for lockdown situations. This decision reflects our ongoing commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for our students, staff, and families. Thank you for supporting this effort—it’s a meaningful way to contribute to the well-being of our school community!


Key Dates to Remember:

  • Start Date: 10/21/24
  • End Date: 12/2/24
  • Delivery Date: 12/13/24

This means there’s still time to ramp up your sales efforts, share the fundraiser with friends and family, and spread the word to hit that $12,000 goal.


How Can You Help?

  • Share the link! Direct customers to our online order page and make it easy for them to support your student and our school.
  • Get social! Share the Butter Braid fundraiser on your social media and encourage others to participate.

Every Butter Braid sold directly supports the programs and property improvements that make St. Pius X a standout community of faith, service, and academic excellence.


Let’s Finish Strong!

We hit $10,000 last year, and this year’s $12,000 goal is absolutely within reach with your participation. Whether you’ve sold 1 Butter Braid or 100, every single order makes a difference.


Thank you for your dedication, enthusiasm, and teamwork. Together, we can make this year’s fundraiser the best yet!


PS: Don’t forget about that Chick-fil-A lunch for the top-selling grade! Keep the competition alive, and let’s see who rises to the challenge.

St. Pius X Butter Braids Online Order Site

Get Ready to Shine: The Annual St. Pius X Fundraiser Gala is Coming!


Mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable evening! The Annual St. Pius X Fundraiser Gala is right around the corner, and this year, we’re pulling out all the stops with a Casino Night Extravaganza!


Our gala has always been a cherished tradition—an opportunity to come together as a community, celebrate our shared mission, and support the incredible students and programs of St. Pius X Parish School. This year, we have set an ambitious but achievable goal: to raise $150,000 to continue enhancing the exceptional educational experiences we provide. We know, with your help, we can reach this milestone and make an incredible impact!


Exciting Auction Items Await You

Our live and silent auction will be a highlight of the evening, featuring an array of amazing items and experiences, including:

  • Free SPX Tuition for Single Student
  • Free Braces from Clark Dental
  • Notre Dame Football Tickets
  • “Principal for a Day” Experience
  • "Athletic Director for a Day" Experience

And that’s just the beginning! You’ll have the chance to bid on these and many other treasures while enjoying the thrill of the casino floor.


What to Expect

Our Casino Night theme will make the event even more spectacular. From blackjack to poker, the gambling events will be a key part of the evening, tying into one of our most exclusive auction offerings (to be revealed soon!). It’s a perfect way to take a chance on fun while supporting a great cause.


Tickets Coming Soon

Keep an eye out—tickets will be available soon! This is a night you won’t want to miss, so gather your friends, dress to impress, and prepare to make memories that will last a lifetime.


We Need Your Help

Our Auction Committee is still looking for additional auction items and sponsors to make this event even more extraordinary. If you have leads, ideas, or want to contribute, please reach out to us at gala@stpiuslombard.org. Whether it’s a unique item, a service, or a sponsorship, every contribution helps us get closer to our goal.


Together, we can make this year’s Gala the most successful one yet. Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for your unwavering support of St. Pius X Parish School. Let’s roll the dice and make a difference!


Contact Information

Email: gala@stpiuslombard.org

We can’t wait to see you there! Keep visiting our event website as information will continuously be added


Kickstart the Gala with "Painting with Paul"! Second date Added!!!!

Due to a record-setting sellout in one day, we have added a second date of "Painting with Paul"! If you have already signed up, don't resign as this will be the same project.


Get ready for a creative evening of fun and fundraising! To help cover the essential startup costs for our upcoming Gala, St. Pius X’s very own Mr. Paul Velat is hosting his popular "Painting with Paul" Wine and Dine Painting Event. This intimate gathering is a perfect way to unwind, enjoy great company, and channel your inner artist—all while supporting a great cause. The event is B.Y.O.B., but we’ll provide the finger foods, canvases, and painting supplies to bring your masterpiece to life. With space limited to just 15 participants, spots will go fast—so don’t wait to secure yours! All proceeds will go directly toward ensuring the success of this year’s Gala.

Buy Tickets to Painting with Paul Event
St. Pius X Annual Gala Website

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!

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

Keep Christ in Christmas Poster Contest


The Knights of Columbus are once again sponsoring their annual "Keep Christ in Christmas" poster contest, inviting all students to participate in celebrating the true meaning of the season! This year, the contest has expanded to award prizes across multiple grade levels: Kindergarten, Grades 1-2, Grades 3-4, Grades 5-6, and Grades 7-8.


To enter, students should create a poster that includes the slogan “Keep Christ in Christmas” and visually represents the story of Jesus' birth. Creativity is encouraged, allowing each artist to illustrate this theme in their own unique way.


Mr. V has already provided students with 11x17” paper for their entries. Posters must be submitted by December 6, along with the attached entry form.


We look forward to seeing the beautiful artwork our students create to honor the birth of Christ this Christmas season. Good luck to all our young artists!

Keep Christ in Christmas Entry Form

Service Hours Made Simple with SPX Service Society


Looking for ways to fulfill your service hours? The SPX Service Society has you covered! Acting as a central hub for community outreach, the Service Society offers numerous opportunities for confirmandi, students, and families alike to volunteer and make a positive impact. 


Our newest opportunity comes from the SPX Art and Environment Committee, which is looking for extra hands to help decorate for the holidays! This is a great way to spread Christmas cheer while earning service hours in a hands-on, creative setting.


In addition to holiday decorating, the Service Society’s site features various other ways to get involved. Whether you’re interested in volunteering with local charities, assisting at events, or joining seasonal projects, there’s a place for everyone to contribute. 


With easy-to-access options, fulfilling your service hour requirements 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.

SPX Service Society Website

Winter Dance Season Sign Up is Open!


Our Fall dance team season will end after the Hoops for the Troops performances on January 11th. Winter season will then begin!  Join our dance teams as we practice NEW dances for our performances at the 8th grade Blackout Basketball games on February 15th. Only dancers who did not do fall season, or those fall season members who have not already signed up for winter season, need to fill out the registration on Sports Engine by January 2nd. 


The Littlest Knights Poms Dance Team is open to all St. Pius students Pre-K3 and Pre-K4! The Knight Crew Dance Team is open to all St. Pius students Kindergarten-8th grade! Weekly practice will be followed by a St. Pius X basketball halftime show in February! 

Sign up for Littlest Knights Winter Session
Sign up for Knight Crew Winter Session

Cheer On Our St. Pius X Dance Teams!


Our St. Pius X Dance Teams are gearing up to bring high energy and skill to the court with their exciting performance routines! From our youngest dancers to our Knight Crew, these talented athletes have been working hard, and now it’s time for them to shine. Mark your calendars and come out to support our dancers at these fantastic events!


  • Littlest Knights Halftime Performance: Catch our adorable Littlest Knights as they perform at halftime during the 6 PM basketball game on December 6 at St. Pius X!
  • Knight Crew Halftime Performance: Stay for the 7 PM game on December 6 to watch the Knight Crew dazzle the crowd with their halftime show, also at St. Pius X!
  • Knight Crew at the Windy City Bulls Game: The Knight Crew takes the big stage at the NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates on December 15! Don’t miss their performance during the Windy City Bulls game at 2 PM—an amazing opportunity to see our dancers in action!


To join us for the Windy City Bulls game and cheer on the Knight Crew, you can purchase tickets using this link: Windy City Bulls Tickets. For any questions about tickets, please reach out to Sarah at spxdance@aol.com.


Thank you for supporting our St. Pius X dancers, and let’s make some noise for the Knights Dance Teams!

Buy Tickets to the Windy City Bulls to See our Knight Crew Dance Team

Reminder: Volleyball Uniforms Collection


As the volleyball season has wrapped up, we kindly ask all players to return their team uniforms. Please ensure the uniforms are washed, clean, and completely dry before returning them.


To help us stay organized, place the uniform in a sealed ziplock bag with the following clearly labeled:


  • Student-Athlete’s Name
  • Grade
  • The word "Volleyball"


Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our athletic program running smoothly! Uniforms can be dropped off at the school office by a.s.a.p.


We appreciate your help and look forward to another great sports season!

St. Pius X Knight Athletics Special Spirit Wear Collection – Last Chance to order!


Get ready to show your Knight pride with our exclusive, limited-edition St. Pius X Knight Athletics Spiritwear! This special collection features athletic-inspired gear perfect for players, fans, and families alike. It’s a unique opportunity to grab high-quality items that celebrate our Knight spirit, just in time for the holiday season.


From cozy hoodies to performance tees and accessories, there’s something for every Knight in this collection. Perfect as gifts or for your own collection, these items are available for a limited time, with guaranteed delivery by Christmas. Don’t miss out on the chance to add a little extra Knight pride to your holiday season!


Orders can be placed online. Visit our Spiritwear store today and secure your favorite items before they’re gone. Let’s keep the St. Pius X spirit strong—order now and make this Christmas one to remember!

St. Pius X Knights Athletics Spirit Wear Limited Offerings

Stay Connected with the PSA


Santa's Secret Shop is Coming!


If you haven’t signed up to help yet, there’s still time! Please visit our SignUpGenius page to volunteer. The kids are excited to shop for all the special people on their lists, and we need your support to make it a magical experience.

We have a wide variety of gifts available, ranging from $1 to $10. Items include home goods, ornaments, customizable gifts, pet products, and so much more!


To make shopping easier for your child(ren), we recommend sending their money in an envelope with the form filled out. This way, they can check off each person as they shop.


Lastly, a big thank you to everyone who contributed to Stock the Lounge and the Chili Bar for our amazing teachers and staff. Your generosity is greatly appreciated!


Important Dates:

  • 12/06: Santa's Secret Shop
  • 12/10: Teacher & Staff Christmas Luncheon
  • 12/10: Knights out to Dinner: Triano's
  • 12/12: PSA Meeting @ 7pm
  • 12/20: Christmas Classroom Parties
  • 12/20: Junior High Christmas Happenings
Volunteer at Santa's Secret Shop
Santa's Secret Shop Form
Lastest PSA Newsletter

Children's Mass

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.

Sign up for Children's Masses

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