Principal Post

August 20, 2025

August 20, 2025

First Principal’s Post of the School Year - Hold on to Your Horses!!!

Welcome to the first “Principal’s Post” of the 2025–26 school year! Each Wednesday I put together a new post to share with our school community. You can always find it on our website, and I’ll also send out the link by email and post it to our school’s Facebook page on Wednesday afternoons or evenings.



The “Principal’s Post” is my way of keeping everyone connected—I’ll share school-wide updates as well as highlights from different grade levels throughout the year. In addition to this, you’ll also hear often from your child’s teachers. Email tends to be our main way of communicating, so you can expect regular updates that way too.

 

If you change your email address at any time, or would like to add another email address, please notify Kelly.boche@st-paul.pvt.k12.ia.us AND your child(ren)'s teacher(s).

 

A Wednesday folder will also come home each week with important school news. Please make sure you check these on Wednesdays and return folders to school on Thursday. 

 

If you have a submission for the “Principal’s Post”, please submit it to the school office no later than 8AM on the Tuesday before. Please email announcements to kelly.boche@st-paul.pvt.k12.ia.us



Come to the Table – Our Theme for the 2025-26 School Year

At St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School, our theme for this year is, “Come to the Table.” This invitation reminds us that God calls us as parents, students, staff, and as a parish to gather as one community of faith to be nourished, strengthened, and united.



At St. Paul’s, the table represents more than just a place to eat. It symbolizes the classroom, the playground, the church, and every space where we come together to learn, grow, and share life. “Come to the Table” is also a call to welcome others, to make room for every individual, and to honor the unique gifts each person brings. 



Just as Christ welcomed all to His table, we seek to create a culture of belonging, care, and service in our school. This school year, may our community remain a place where all are invited to, “Come to the Table.”



-Mr. Connors; Principal of St. Paul the Apostle School



Communication/Social Media: 

You may find us on Social media by following the links provided below! You will be able to find answers to a large variety of your questions by utilizing these valuable resources.



· Website

· St. Paul’s Facebook page

· Home and School Facebook page

· St. Paul the Apostle Mom’s Group



Unpack Your Backpack - Thursday, August 21st

Join us this Thursday, August 21, from 1:00–5:30 pm for our annual Unpack Your Backpack event!



This is a great opportunity for students to drop off supplies, meet their teacher, and get ready for a smooth first day of school. Please use the link below to sign up for a time slot:


Unpack Your Backpack Link



Here’s what you can expect:

· If you ordered a school supply kit, it will be waiting on your child’s desk, ready to unpack.

· Any spirit wear or gym clothes you ordered will also be available.

· A used uniform sale will be set up in the gym for families to shop.

· Families signed up for bus transportation will receive bus route information.



We look forward to seeing you there!



School Times

Students may gather on West playground/Courtyard at 7:35 AM. Supervision begins at 7:35 AM and not before.



Bell Schedule

First Bell: 7:45 AM

Tardy Bell: 7:55 AM

First lunch/recess: 11:00 AM

Second lunch/recess: 11:30 AM

Third lunch/recess: 12:00 PM



Dismissal

Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd: 2:52 PM

3rd, 4th, 5th: 2:54 PM

6th, 7th, 8th: 2:55 PM



School Uniform

What a wonderful time to review our dress code policy! Make sure to try clothes on before the first day of school. Some of these kids seem to grow a foot over the summer! Any questions about dress code can be directed to the front office. See policy below.



ALL STUDENTS:  

· Red or navy blue uniform sweater (cardigan or crew neck) 

· Footwear should be either dress shoes or tennis shoes. No other footwear is acceptable. Shoes must have a back or strap at the back, and must have a closed toe. No Crocs, flip-flops, sandals, or boots may be worn during the school day. No heels higher than 2 inches may be worn. During inclement weather, it is acceptable to change into boots for outdoor recess only. Shoes are to be clean, neat, and well kept. 

· Socks must be solid black, white or navy. 

· Belts are required when wearing dress slacks or shorts, they must be solid color and coordinate with uniform. 

· Navy blue uniform shorts or slacks. Dress slacks or shorts must have belt loops, a maximum of two inset pockets in front and two inset pockets in the back.

· Uniform approved sweatshirts and ¼ zip fleece. Contact the school office for purchase information. 

· This dress code exists so that economical clothing can be purchased and so that competition between the students, regarding dress, can be minimized.



GIRLS’ UNIFORM: 

·  Blouses, in red, white, light blue or navy blue, long or short sleeved, Peter Pan collar or oxford, knit polo, or turtlenecks. Plain or St. Paul the Apostle school logo only. (light weight material).

·  K-5: Uniform jumpers or navy blue shorts or navy blue slacks. 

·  6-8: Uniform skirts, navy blue or khaki uniform shorts or navy blue or khaki dress slacks purchased from the Religious Supply Store - or exact replica. (NO jeans, corduroys, sweats, or stirrup-style). Skirt length must be no shorter than 2 inches above the knee. Dress slacks or shorts must have belt loops, a maximum of two inset pockets in front and two inset pockets in the back.         

· Black or navy tights or ankle length leggings can be worn under jumpers or skirts.



BOYS’ UNIFORM:  

· Shirts, in red, white, light blue, or navy blue, long or short sleeved, oxford style or knit polo. Standard 

turtlenecks are also permitted. Plain or St. Paul the Apostle school logo only.

·  K-5: Navy blue uniform slacks or shorts. 

·  6-8: Navy blue or khaki uniform shorts or navy blue or khaki dress slacks (No jeans, corduroys or sweats).     

·  Dress slacks and shorts must have belt loops and a maximum of two inset pockets in front and two inset 

               pockets in back. 



K, 1st and 2nd GRADE STUDENTS: Belts are optional.



6th, 7th, 8th GRADE STUDENTS: 6th - 8th grade students have the following additional option:

· Uniform approved sweatshirts. Contact school office for purchase information.

· Assumption sweatshirt as determined by St. Paul Administration.



PE UNIFORM (4TH - 8TH GRADE STUDENTS ONLY): 

· Students in 4th - 8th grade are required to purchase/wear a P.E. uniform on the days that they have P.E. class. This consists of a royal blue short or long sleeve shirt with the Saint Paul’s logo and navy blue shorts or sweatpants with the Saint Paul’s logo. Students may wear solid black leggings or compression pants under shorts.



Food Menu

Since St. Paul's does not have a cafeteria, students eat in their classrooms.  Lunch options are selected for each semester, and whatever they select they will get on that particular day the entire semester. 2nd semester selection will be made in November/December. This is the only time they can switch their options.



Daily

White Milk

Chocolate Milk



Monday Options

Hot dog in a bun

Culver’s hamburger in a bun

Culver’s cheeseburger in a bun

Bag of pretzels

Cup of sliced peaches



Tuesday Options

Hungry Hobo ham/cheddar cheese sub                           

Hungry Hobo turkey/cheddar cheese sub                                   

Hungry Hobo baked potato w/ cheddar cheese

Assorted chips                                                                                   

Cheese stick     



Wednesday Options

Chick-fil-A breaded chicken sandwich

Chick-fil-A grilled chicken sandwich

Chick-fil-A grilled chicken nuggets

Chick-fil-A salad

Cup of applesauce



Thursday Options               

Taco in a bag (Doritos)               

Taco in a bag (Fritos)                   

Sour cream                                   

Salsa                                             

Cup of mandarin oranges



Friday Options

Papa John’s cheese pizza

Papa John’s pepperoni pizza

Papa John’s sausage pizza

Fresh strawberries



Spiritual Refocusing

Summer can often feel even busier for families than the school year. As we turn the page into a new school year, this season provides a wonderful opportunity to pause, reflect, and recommit ourselves to nurturing our spiritual lives. Please find Mass times below.



Mass Times

Saturday Vigil: 4:30 pm

Sunday: 9:00 am & 11:00 am

Monday & Friday: 6:30 am

Tuesday & Thursday: 8:30 am

Wednesday: 5:30 pm

First Saturdays: 8:30 am



Rosary, Adoration & Confession

Rosary: Monday - Friday, 6:00 am

Adoration: Every Wednesday, 4:30 - 5:30 pm;
First Friday of the month, 7:00am - 7:00pm

Confession: Saturdays, 9:30 - 10:30 am



PS–8 Immunization Records

As we prepare for the new school year, please remember that all preschoolers, kindergartners, and any students new to SPS must have current immunization records on file before the first day of school. In addition, 7th graders are required to have two booster vaccines: TDaP (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) and the meningococcal conjugate vaccine.



Families may submit immunization records by fax or email. According to Iowa law, students cannot be enrolled without up-to-date immunization documentation, and schools are required to exclude students who do not meet these requirements.

While there are a few exceptions outlined in state law, it’s important to note that the Catholic Church does not oppose immunizations. Therefore, religious exemptions are not typically available for Catholic families.



Before & After School Programs

The St. Paul’s Before and After School Program is a quality, collaborative, school-age program that provides before and after school experiences that are fun, self-guided, creative, and safe. This program is licensed by the Department of Human Services and directed by a licensed teacher and staffed by qualified, trained personnel. 



To register for our Before and After School Program:  https://schools.procareconnect.com/form/1bcce744-9059-4d8e-8f52-9fcd365257e6

Account Login: https://schools.procareconnect.com/login



Hours of Operation:

7:00 am to 7:45 am and 2:55 pm to 5:30 pm on all days that school is in session. The After Care program follows the school calendar. There will be After Care on every regular school day. There is no After Care on snow days or during holiday breaks. Also, if school is dismissed early due to inclement weather (snow or extreme heat), parents should try to pick up their children as soon as possible due to the anticipation of unsafe travel conditions.



Fees and Payment Options:

There is a $50 per family deposit to utilize the Before & After Care Program. Denning Hall is locked for student safety during program time. Parents are to ring the doorbell on the Tremont Circle side of Denning Hall for admission. The rate for use of the Before Care program is $5.00 a morning. Aftercare is $5.00 for the first hour, then $2.50 in 1/2 hour increments. A late fee of $1 per every minute past 5:30 will be charged each time you arrive later than closing time. Families will be billed and remit payments through Procare.



New Staff/New Roles

Help me welcome our new staff members!

Jen Moore - Preschool Aide

Liz Kempnick - 1st Grade Teacher

Elizabeth Van Speybroeck - Before/Aftercare and Recess

Amy Cook - 3YO Preschool

Jess Ebner - Aftercare



Help me congratulate the following staff members in their new roles!

Jescie Pullinger - Interim Small Beginnings Director

Areana Soliz - Onsite Supervisor/Classroom Teacher for Small Beginnings

Austen Rosas- 4YO preschool aide

Deb Owens - 4YO PM preschool aide



Open Positions

We currently have the following openings:

1 FTE Library Aide/Small Beginnings Para

.25 FTE K-1 Music Teacher

Substitute Teachers

Questions about the open positions can be sent to Mr. Connors ethan.connors@st-paul.pvt.k12.ia.us or Logan Ahnquist at logan.ahnquist@sccsiowa.org 



Parking Lot Traffic Patterns

The beginning of the school year can feel busy and sometimes stressful—let’s work together to make sure drop-off and pick-up aren’t part of that stress!

If you plan to use the car lines, please take a few minutes to review the following diagrams before arriving:



· Drop-Off Procedures

· Pick-Up Procedures

During the first couple of weeks, it’s natural for everyone to be re-learning or adjusting to the process. Please remember: it will get easier! We ask for patience, understanding, and the same grace you’d hope others will extend to you.



If you have questions, or aren’t sure what to do, simply follow the direction of the staff on duty; we’re here to help!



Upcoming Events

· Thursday, August 21st: Unpack Your Backpack; 1 - 5:30 pm

· Follow directions above for reserving your time!

· Monday, August 25th: First Day of School

· Small Beginnings/Before/Aftercare Opens

· Yahoo-Boohoo Coffee in Denning Hall after Drop Off

· Adoration during the School Day

· Divine Mercy Chaplet at 3:10 pm at the Church

· Tuesday, August 26th: First Day of All School Mass

· Happens Weekly

· Thursday, August 28th: First Day of Operation 

· 4YO AM/PM Preschool

· Transitional Kindergarten

· Monday, September 1st: No School

· Labor Day

· Wednesday, September 3rd First Day of Operation

· M/W 3YO Preschool

· Thursday, September 4th First Day of Operation

· T/TH 3YO Preschool



By Principal Connors & Kelly Boche August 27, 2025
August 27, 2025 Principal Post/Wednesday Email In an effort to simplify and strengthen our communication at SPS, we will be combining the Wednesday Email and the Principal’s Post into one weekly update called the Weekly Panther. The new format will include three sections: What’s New?, Still Current, and Week at a Glance. As we roll out this updated approach, the layout may continue to evolve. We appreciate your patience as we refine the process in the coming weeks. Mr. Connors; Principal WHAT’S NEW Chaplet/Deacon Ryan I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Deacon Ryan, Mrs. Greufe, and all of the students who participated in Monday’s after-school Chaplet. It was a beautiful and moving experience that left me feeling renewed and recharged after our first day of school. Moments like these remind me of the incredible gift we share as a community of faith. At SPS, we do not take for granted the blessing of being able to gather in prayer and worship as part of our daily educational journey. It is important that we do so because, as Jesus reminds us, "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:20) Lions, Tigers, and August Construction… Oh My! The start of the school year always comes with its own adventure. Checking to see if those old uniforms still fit, triple checking the school supply lists to ensure you haven't missed anything, and coordinating childcare and/or pick-up for your child(ren) can be exhausting as it is. Toss in a little August construction down the street from the school and it can make one want to give up! The good news? Our first days of drop-off and pick-up went smoothly (just a little slower than usual). Thank you for your patience and positivity as we all learn together! Remember: safety comes first. Every student’s well-being is our top priority. Helpful Tips for Success: Review our Drop-Off Procedures and Pick-Up Procedures before heading out. Follow the direction of the friendly staff on duty as they’re there to keep things safe and moving. Breathe, wave to your neighbor, and know that the construction will pass and all will return to normal (or as normal as it ever is!) If you plan to use the car lines, please take a few minutes to review the following diagrams before arriving: Drop-Off Procedures Pick-Up Procedures If you have questions, or aren’t sure what to do, simply follow the direction of the staff on duty; we’re here to help! School Uniform What a wonderful time to review our dress code policy! Make sure to try clothes on before the first day of school. Some of these kids seem to grow a foot over the summer! Any questions about dress code can be directed to the front office. See policy HERE ! Food Menu Since St. Paul's does not have a cafeteria, students eat in their classrooms. Lunch options are selected for each semester, and whatever they select they will get on that particular day the entire semester. 2nd semester selection will be made in November/December. This is the only time they can switch their options. Lunch Menu Here Before & After School Programs The St. Paul’s Before and After School Program is a quality, collaborative, school-age program that provides before and after school experiences that are fun, self-guided, creative, and safe. This program is licensed by the Department of Human Services and directed by a licensed teacher and staffed by qualified, trained personnel. To register for our Before and After School Program: https://schools.procareconnect.com/form/1bcce744-9059-4d8e-8f52-9fcd365257e6 Account Login: https://schools.procareconnect.com/login To learn more about our before and after care programs click here ! Open Positions We currently have the following openings: 1 FTE Library Aide/Small Beginnings Para .25 FTE K-1 Music Teacher Substitute Teachers Questions about the open positions can be sent to Mr. Connors ethan.connors@st-paul.pvt.k12.ia.us or Logan Ahnquist at logan.ahnquist@sccsiowa.org Recess Volunteers Please use the link below if you would like to volunteer at recess. This would count towards your volunteer hours. You must complete Diocesan required training and a background check prior to volunteering. Email Kelly.boche@st-paul.pvt.k12.ia.us or jescie.pullinger@st-paul.pvt.k12.ia.us for more information. September Recess Volunteer Carlo Acutis Week Carlos Acutis is scheduled to be Canonized as a saint on September 7. St. Pauls has many activities planned for the week of August 29 - Sept. 7, including: Eucharistic Miracles Exhibit created by Blessed Carlo Acutis in the Gathering Space from Aug. 29 - Sept. 5 Family movie night following Wednesday evening Mass featuring Carlo Acutis: Roadmap to Reality (popcorn and lemonade provided, families can bring additional snacks) Celebration Mass 11:00AM Sept. 7 - school children will participate in many aspects of the Mass Coffee and Donuts after Mass with St. Carlo Acutis coloring sheets, word searches, rosary crafts, and more. Girls in Aviation Day Please see attached flyer for the Quad Cities International Airport, along with John Deere and Elliott Aviation, Girls in Aviation Day event on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Families may sign-up to attend by using the QR code within the flyer. Girls in Aviation Flyer AHS Sport Opportunities KBA Flyer Girls Cheer Clinic Flyer STILL CURRENT Home and School Home and School is made up of all parents and teachers at St. Paul’s and serves to support our children and school, and raise money to provide our students with extra resources outside the school budget such as technology, library books, art supplies, PE equipment, and so much more. We also work to support our teachers with funding for their classroom and hospitality during the year to show our appreciation for the incredible work they are doing with our children. Finally, we facilitate social events throughout the year to help foster community in both our school and parish. We are looking for parents to join the board in positions such as treasurer, secretary, vice president, panther perks helpers, and much more. There are many manageable jobs that you can work into your schedule to help earn volunteer hours. This is a great way to get involved in the school and to help support our teachers and children. If you are interested in getting more information or getting involved in Home and School, email saintpaulhomeandschool@gmail.com for more information. Home and School meetings are held on the 2nd Monday of the month from 6:00 – 7:00 PM in the School Media Center. Anyone is welcome to join in these meetings to get involved and get more information. A short agenda will be shared on our Facebook page prior to each meeting. Don’t forget that attending a Home and School meeting counts for a volunteer hour each month! Each K-8 family has the obligation to help Home and School by: completing 20 volunteer hours which can be logged on the school website: Record Volunteer Hours , a $200 buyout in lieu of volunteer hours, $200 in Panther Perks rebate profit (script), or a combination of all three. We will send emails with volunteer opportunities throughout the year and help volunteers get coordinated with committees. Look for announcements via email as well as on the St. Paul the Apostle Home and School Association Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/saintpaulhomeandschool We are excited for a great 2025/2026 school year! Spirit Wear and Uniform Items The uniform and spirit wear store is now open! Orders need to be placed by September 1st and will be delivered by September 24th. This is a great time to order your uniform approved quarter zip sweatshirts for those cold winter days ahead. Check out all the fun St. Paul spirit wear and show your school spirit. Remember that spirit wear tops can be worn with uniform bottoms on early out days so stock up. Order Here! https://stores.inksoft.com/saint_paul_davenport School Sweatshirts and PE Uniforms It may be hot now, but Fall is coming and our old building can get cold very quickly. In addition to the red and blue ¼ zip sweatshirts available at the link above, uniform approved sweatshirts for students in KGN – 8th grade and Gym uniforms (required for all students in 4th – 8th grade) can be purchased at this link: Sweatshirt and Gym Uniforms . 6th – 8th grade students may also wear the Assumption uniform sweatshirts (red, white, or black) available in the AHS school office. Block Party 9/20/25 The Back-To-School Block Party is one of our most loved events. This fun evening has something for the whole family! It takes many volunteers to make this event happen and we are so thankful for our St. Paul community who always shows up to help. Please sign up for a time slot to volunteer and contact Shannon Elliott with any questions at saintpaulhomeandschool@gmail.com. **ALL VOLUNTEERS, PLEASE CHECK IN WITH SHANNON ELLIOTT UPON ARRIVING AT YOUR SCHEDULED TIME SLOT** https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040A45ACAA2CAA8-57967293-block - / Cake Walk Donations Our students’ favorite event at the Block Party is the cake walk! Showcase your talent at our annual block party! We welcome all treats! Cakes, cookies, cupcakes, brownies, Bundt cakes etc! Store bought is ok too! We will have stickers available for your name and description at drop off. Disposable packaging only;) All items can be dropped off in Denning Hall Friday and early Saturday before the event! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040A45ACAA2CAA8-57967394-cake WEEK AT A GLANCE Wed., Aug. 27 Thurs., Aug. 28 4yo AM and 4yo PM Preschool starts Transitional Kindergarten starts Fri., Aug. 29 Sat., Aug. 30 Sun., Aug. 31 Mon., Sept. 1 Labor Day - No School Tues., Sept. 2 Panther Perk Day – turn in a Panther Perk order today and your child(ren) will earn an out of uniform this Friday, Sept. 5. Wed., Sept. 3 3yo MW Preschool starts
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