The Weekly Panther February 18, 2026

PRINCIPAL’S PONDERINGS
You may have noticed the new signs we placed along Rusholme Street this morning. We ordered these reminders because of the concerns we shared last week regarding drop-off and pick-up procedure violations. While some of these rules may feel minor in the moment, they exist for one reason: the safety of our students, staff, and families, and we need your help.
Please take a moment to review the pick-up and drop-off expectations below, and be sure to share them with anyone who transports your child (grandparents, childcare providers, neighbors, older siblings, etc.). We all live in a fast-paced world, but drop-off and pick-up is one place we cannot afford to rush. Thank you for taking your time, staying alert, and doing your part to keep everyone safe.
Drop-off and Pick-up Procedures
Mr. Connors
WHAT’S NEW
Enrollment for 2026-2027 Past Due
Re-enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is now past due! We have about 15 families who have NOT completed this process, and are in jeopardy of losing their spot. You must do 2 things to complete the registration process:
1) Log into the link below using your Powerschool user name and password, then click on the “UPDATE” button next to each child’s name and go through each screen (your information should already be populated). IF YOU HAVE TO ENTER EVERYTHING MANUALLY, STOP! You are creating a duplicate record and we will have to deny it. Please make sure everything is up to date (primary contacts, emergency contacts, etc. as this information dumps into PowerSchool). It is imperative that we have contact information for all primary contacts (parents)/guardians in case of emergency.
Click on this Link to re-enroll:
If you have forgotten your username or password, please email katee.bates@st-paul.pvt.k12.ia.us.
Please do NOT create a NEW account by hitting the “get started” button. Current families must “LOGIN” (in the upper right hand corner) to update their accounts. If you have a new student that you would like to add to your current family profile, select add new student once you have reviewed your current student’s information. Make sure to submit at the end.
2) Pay the Registration fee
If you have a child currently in Kindergarten - 8th grade, you may use your ESA marketplace funds to pay the $150 enrollment fee for 2026-27. Log into your Odyssey account and click on “View balance”, then on “view marketplace”. Click on the search button at the top (magnifying glass icon on the right hand side) and type in "Registration". Then click on the SCCS Registration Fee Logo and add to your cart. You should receive an email from Odyssey that says “thank you for your purchase”. This process will have to be completed for EACH child. Odyssey will then transfer the money to SCCS - no need to let the SPS or SCCS office know that you paid via Odyssey.
Each child has to use their own funds. If a child doesn’t have enough money in their account, you will have to pay out of pocket. If you have already paid through Blackbaud, but would rather use ESA funds, go ahead and complete the ESA payment, and then money you already paid via Blackbaud will be applied to any balance you have due (lunch or aftercare, for example), or refunded.
If you do not have marketplace funds, please login to your Blackbaud account and once you have selected a student, select “purchase optional items” at the top center of the page and select the 2026-27 enrollment fee.
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Mass and Divine Mercy Chaplet
This year, we're encouraging junior high students to attend *Friday morning 6:30 AM Mass before school AND/OR *Friday Divine Mercy chaplet at 3:00 after school (should last about 20 minutes).
We will provide donuts and a place for the kids to hang out between Mass and school. Please consider these special opportunities (not required) to help your child grow in their faith with SPS teachers and community members! Of course, parents are welcome!!
Here are the dates for both of these opportunities:
2/20: 6:30AM Mass and Divine Mercy at 3:00
2/27: 6:30AM Mass and Divine Mercy at 3:00
3/6: 6:30AM Mass and Divine Mercy at 3:00
3/13: 6:30AM Mass and Divine Mercy at 3:00
3/20: 6:30AM Mass and Divine Mercy at 3:00
3/27: 6:30AM Mass and Divine Mercy at 3:00
If you would like to volunteer to provide donuts and/or juice for our hungry, faith-filled students that join us for early Mass, click this link: 6:30 AM Mass donuts & drinks sign-up
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Coach Sloth
We will be having Author Coach Sloth at St. Paul’s this Friday for grades Kindergarten - 5th grades! He was a starting cornerback in 2000 for the Iowa State Cyclones and helped lead them to victory in the Insight Bowl. He spent 10 seasons playing and coaching arena football, and also starred as a football player in 5 movies! His author presentation is no charge to St. Paul’s, but it is a Pay it forward assembly. With each book order, you help send him to another school at no cost. Please see flyer below for more information or to place an order:
Paper order forms went home last week with Kgn - 5th Graders
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Aftercare News
Aftercare: Will be closed Friday, February 27th due to the men's CEW Retreat.
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100th year Gala Silent Auction Committee: Invite to Class Project meeting attached
100th year Class Project Meeting Invite.png
Attention Crafty Parents:
To honor our school's 100th Year, we are asking each grade (Pre-k through 8th) to create a unique Legacy Project for our May Ist Gala auction. We need your creative brains and helping hands to coordinate these student made projects. Whether you're an artist or just great at "wrangling" glitter, we want to hear your ideas!
Meeting Date: February 23 at 6:00 PM
Location: Media Center
Let's build something that captures the spirit of our school's first 100 years!
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Art Room Needs
The art room is in need of cereal, cracker or cookie boxes for an upcoming art project. Small to regular size, nothing too big. Please send them to art with your student before spring break, if you have a couple of empties to spare.
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STILL CURRENT
Now Hiring: President – Scott County Catholic Schools (SCCS)
Scott County Catholic Schools is seeking a visionary and faithādriven President to serve as the Chief Administrative Officer of our vibrant, multiāschool Catholic system located in the Diocese of Davenport. This is a unique and rewarding leadership opportunity to shape the future of Catholic education for students, families, and parishes across Scott County.
About the Role
The President is responsible for advancing our Catholic mission, ensuring excellence in
academic and operational leadership, and guiding the longāterm success and vitality of
the school system. Serving as the executive leader, the President collaborates closely
with the SCCS Board of Directors and Trustees, pastors, principals, and the broader
community.
Key Responsibilities
Mission & Catholic Identity
• Champion and model the Catholic identity of SCCS.
• Ensure Catholic values, teachings, and traditions are integrated into all school
programs, policies, and practices.
• Lead the development and ongoing review of SCCS’s mission, vision, and philosophy.
• Foster a culture of dignity, respect, and spiritual growth for students, families, faculty,
and staff.
Institutional Leadership
• Provide strategic leadership to principals and department heads.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders.
• Represent SCCS across the diocese and broader community.
Operational & Academic Excellence
• Oversee instructional quality, business operations, and systemāwide administration.
• Ensure compliance with all diocesan, state, and federal education guidelines.
• Support continuous improvement and school advancement initiatives.
Stewardship & System Viability
• Collaborate with the Board on longārange planning and policy implementation.
• Ensure sound fiscal stewardship and budget oversight.
• Lead hiring, supervision, evaluation, and formation of key personnel.
• Promote strong partnerships with parishes, families, and community organizations.
Qualifications
• Practicing Roman Catholic committed to the mission of Catholic education.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in Catholic education or organizational leadership preferred.
To apply or learn more, contact:
logan.ahnquist@sccsiowa.org
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Iowa ACE
Iowa ACE is making one last push to have parents sign-up to be a part of Iowa ACE to help in the fight to keep the ESA!
By signing up with Iowa ACE, you will:
- Align with a statewide organization advocating for quality education and choice for all students.
- Gain access to resources and tools to support your family’s educational journey.
- Strengthen the community of families who value the same mission of access, excellence, and faith-based learning.
Here’s how to get started:
- Visit www.iowaace.org and click “Parents for Educational Choice – Join Now!” Iowa Alliance for Choice in Education
- Complete the brief sign-up form to become a member of Iowa ACE’s parent network.
- Watch for updates and communications from Iowa ACE and our school about ways you can engage and support our community.
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8th Grade Career Fair UPDATE
Due to the low numbers of presenters confirmed to date, we are unable to have our Career Fair this year. Thank you. If there are any questions, please contact Mrs. Whitney Woods at whitney.woods@st-paul.pvt.k12.ia.us
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Future Club Scholarship
St. Paul the Apostle Future Club is offering a scholarship for a graduating high school senior who attended St. Paul the Apostle School, and who is planning to attend a college or university. You must include a typewritten essay entitled “What My Catholic Education Has Meant to Me” (maximum 1,000 words). The Selection Committee will review all applications and essays. The scholarship is not renewable. All applications must be received at SPS by Tuesday, March 31. No late applications will be accepted.
Future Fund Scholarship App 2026.doc
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Pathfinders is taking small break!
Due to the increase in conflict with musical rehearsals, I will be postponing our February Pathfinders. I know we have many regular Pathfinders who are in the cast and I would hate for anyone to miss out on our upcoming content. We will come back strong after Spring Break with two meetings in March and April. I am still working on our speaker line up but here are the tentative dates for those months:
March 23 & 30
April 13 & 27
May 18—Final Meeting
Thank you for your understanding! I will have sign ups out in the next couple weeks with an opportunity to sign up for multiple dates. If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Sarah Kahler at kahler.sj@gmail.com. Stay well and I look forward to seeing our Pathfinders again in March!
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School Sponsored Soup Supper March 24th
Lent is almost here, and that means it’s time for soup suppers!
Soup suppers will be held every Wednesday evening in Denning Hall from February 25 through March 25 at 6:00 PM (following the 5:30 PM Mass). On March 25, our school will be sponsoring the soup supper.
If you are providing soup, please:
- Drop off soups by 5:00–5:15 PM
- Label your crock pot with your name
- Take your crock pot home at the end of the evening
- If possible, include a list of ingredients and any allergens (this is especially helpful for those with allergies or dietary restrictions)
Thank you for your generosity and support in making our soup suppers successful! Our school families will host this week’s soup supper with the help of our parish community.
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Recess Volunteers Needed
Volunteer Recess Supervisors Needed!
We are looking for parent volunteers to help supervise recess! Having extra adults on the playground helps ensure our students stay safe, supported, and engaged during outdoor play.
Volunteering for recess is also a great way to fulfill your required volunteer hours while spending time with our school community.
To volunteer, CMG training is required for all school volunteers. If you are interested, I am happy to send you the information and steps needed to complete the training. Please email: jescie.pullinger@st-paul.pvt.k12.ia.us if interested. If you are set with the CMG trainings please use the links below to volunteer for a day that works for you.
Thank you for helping us keep our playground a safe and fun place for our children!
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SPS Yearbooks for sale
Celebrate 100 Years of Panther Pride!
2025-26 Yearbooks are on sale this year. St. Paul's is celebrating their 100th Anniversary!
- Each Yearbook is on sale for $25.
- Over 100 pages with Full-color photos
- Packed with memories, milestones, and Panther pride
- A special keepsake honoring 100 years of our amazing school
- Order by Friday, May 1st, to purchase go to: https://parent.blackbaud.school/Login.aspx
This once-in-a-century yearbook is the perfect way for students and families to remember this unforgettable school year. Get yours before they’re gone!
If “Yearbook” is not an option in Blackbaud, that means you have already ordered one (remember that you have to log into each of your children’s accounts if they each want one).
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Family Trivia
Join us for family friendly, all ages trivia night on Saturday, February 21st hosted by Boy Scout Troop 20. Doors will open at 5:30 after mass and trivia will start at 6:15 p.m. Questions will be geared for every age group from Bluey, to Taylor Swift, to Elvis and everything in between. Show up by yourself, with friends or with your family and join a table. Cost is $5 per person at the door ($50 for reserved table). Feel free to bring your own food and drinks or buy a walking taco and drink for $5. We will also have pop, water and desserts for sale. To reserve a table and/or food please fill out this FORM or contact Amy Murphy at amy2murphy@yahoo.com.
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CEW Retreat Opportunities
Make a New Year's Resolution that truly restores your soul. Resolve to attend St. Paul’s 2026 Men’s Christian Experience Weekend (CEW), God Shines His Light. CEW meets you where you are – whether you are seeking direction, renewal or a deeper walk with Christ – all while providing a meaningful faith community connection. Start your year with purpose. Start your year with Him.
Contact Joe Verdi, 563.505.5207
Men’s Weekend: February 27, March 1, 2026
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WEEK AT A GLANCE
List of Services
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Wednesday, Feb. 18List Item 1
All School Mass for Ash Wednesday
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Thursday, Feb. 19List Item 2
Hosting Games
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Friday, Feb. 20List Item 3
6:30AM Mass/Donuts for Jr. High
Adoration
Author Coach Sloth visit 10 - 2
Divine Mercy Chaplet 3:00
Stations of the Cross 5:30
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Saturday, Feb. 21
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Sunday, Feb. 22
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Monday, Feb. 23
Student Council 3:00
100th Anniversary Gala Meeting 6PM Media Center
1st Communion Meeting 6:30 PM Denning Hall
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Tuesday, Feb. 24
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Wednesday, Feb. 25
Visiting Artist 9:20
Stations of the Cross - 2:10 PM 3rd grade to lead











