The Weekly Panther

September 3, 2025

September 3, 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

Math Star at SPS - Carter

We are proud to share that one of our SPS students, Carter, has been nominated as a National Math Star! This honor is awarded to students who score in the top 2% nationally on the ISASP Math test.


As a nominee, Carter is invited to apply for a 10-year enrichment program that includes:

  • Weekly small-group math mentoring
  • Accelerated coursework and enrichment resources
  • Fully funded STEM summer camp scholarships
  • Personalized family advising and community events

Today, Carter received his official National Math Star medal in recognition of this achievement. We are so proud of his hard work and dedication. Way to go, Carter!

Historic Canonization This Weekend

On Sunday, September 7, 2025, Pope Leo XIV will canonize Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati in St. Peter’s Square. This marks the first joint canonization of Pope Leo’s pontificate and a truly historic moment for the Church. Carlo Acutis, a modern young man known for his deep devotion to the Eucharist and his love of technology, will become the first millennial saint. He will be canonized alongside Pier Giorgio Frassati, a model of youthful holiness from the early 20th century, remembered for his vibrant faith and dedication to serving the poor.


At St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church there is a display that is set up in the gathering space through Friday, September 5th. 

Cross Country Kicks Off!

The St. Paul’s Cross Country team laced up for their first practice of the season this week! 6th - 8th Grade Spirits were high as runners went down to Garfield  for their first practice of the year.  We’re excited to cheer on our athletes as they grow stronger each week and represent our school with determination and pride. Go Panthers! 

Dates and times of Meets are Below:

9/6/25 @ Trinity Lutheran 9:00am JV and Var to follow

9/15/25 @ Williamsburg, IA TBA JV and Var to follow

9/20/25 @ Trinity Lutheran 9:00am JV and Var to follow


Volleyball Season Begins

Our 6th–8th grade girls’ volleyball teams are officially underway! The season kicked off this week with practices, and the players are already showing great energy and teamwork. We can’t wait to see what the season holds for our Panthers! For practice and game schedules, please contact the coaches directly.


FLK Basketball

Looking for a fun, competitive environment to play basketball this season? We would like to invite your daughter to play for the Future Lady Knights. The Future Lady Knights basketball program focuses on developing young student athletes to be successful both on and off the court. Our program is designed for 3rd- 8th graders planning to attend Assumption High School.

Registration is this Sunday, September 7th at Assumption.  See flyer for details.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lVg57Bn8DVhkWalSWa5aomTZAJaRESBZ/view?usp=sharing

To register online:

https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=vknW0agC9k6E245VmLYSQy8IBUq3s51Dvhc36hP83DlUNDFRVlZFRFFWVTVZSTQwNE5RWktOTUdZNy4u&route=shorturl 


St. Ambrose University Fall Kids camp

For grades K-8. Participants will spend the day with the SAU Spirit program. Each participant will be split by age. During the camp, they will rotate through stations where they will learn a cheer, jumps, and stunts. This will all be performed in the first half of our home football game. They will also learn a short routine to be performed at the halftime of the St. Ambrose University football game that same day!! This clinic is great for all levels of experience! All participants will receive an SAU Spirit t-shirt!

  • When: Saturday, September 13th
  • Clinic: 8-11a.m. (North Field- (St. Vincent Athletic Complex) weather permitting – 620 W Central Park Ave)
  • Performance: halftime of the 1p.m. Home Football Game  (Jack and Pat Stadium)
  • Grades- K-8th

Cost Per Athlete: $50 (includes T-shirt and entrance to football game for dancer and 1 adult)

SIGN UP HERE: REGISTER HERE

Note from our School Therapist

Hello! My name is Elizabeth Ploense, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). I’m excited to be partnering again with St. Paul to provide mental health services within the school community—this will be my second year back at the school, and I’m looking forward to continuing to support students and families. 

As someone who was born and raised Catholic, I feel honored to continue to have the continued opportunity to work with St. Paul. I am mindful of each client’s and family’s comfort level and can thoughtfully integrate spiritual beliefs into sessions when appropriate and welcomed. 

As a counselor, I enjoy engaging with children through art, crafts, games, and movement-based activities—helping make therapy both effective and enjoyable. I work collaboratively with each child to explore the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and actions, and we identify ways to create positive changes that support happier, healthier lives.

I have received training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), which supports children in working through difficult or traumatic experiences. In addition, I am certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), a family therapy model for children ages 2–6. PCIT can help address challenges such as hyperactivity, attachment concerns, and positive discipline strategies through active parent-child engagement.

If you are interested in services, please feel free to reach out to Mrs. Whitney Woods, St. Paul School Counselor at whitney.woods@st-paul.pvt.k12.ia.us, or to me directly by email. In addition, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to either one of us. My email is elizabeth@covenantfamilysolutions.com.

STILL CURRENT

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:


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!


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


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

2025 AHS Knights Cheerleading Kids Clinic

Sept. 17th 5:30pm-7:30pm Clinic

Sept. 19th 7:30pm Performance @ Halftime

$50 includes T-shirt, Poms & Bow

Sign up now!

https://forms.gle/6GfdwRFnXe1iEnnH6

Contact Coach Heather for questions: heatherletherman@gmail.com

Girls Cheer Clinic Flyer

School Sweatshirst and PE Uniforms 

It may be hot now, but Fall is coming and our old building can get cold very quickly. 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., Sept. 3

 3yo MW Preschool starts

Thurs., Sept. 4

  3yoTTH Preschool starts

Ladies Night  7 - 9 Mississippi River Distillery Downtown Lounge

Fri., Sept. 5

Adoration 7AM - 5PM

Out of uniform for Iowa/Iowa State Game (wear your favorite IOWA college team apparel)

Sat., Sept. 6

 

Sun., Sept. 7

 

Mon., Sept. 8

 

Tues., Sept. 9

 

Wed., Sept. 10

Households of Faith - No Homework


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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