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St. Paul Catholic School: Faith and Excellence in Education

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Our Mission

St. Paul the Apostle Parish builds a community of disciples, strengthened by word and Sacrament, to celebrate, live and share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

 

In furthering the Parish mission, St. Paul the Apostle School provides a Christ-centered academic environment designed to promote the total development of the child by instilling the values of our Catholic faith, family, and life-long learning.

Recent News

Learn the latest that is going on at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School.

By Ethan Connors February 19, 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: https://portal.sccsiowa.org/ 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. ********** 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 ************** 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: Coach Sloth.pdf Paper order forms went home last week with Kgn - 5th Graders ********** Aftercare News Aftercare: Will be closed Friday, February 27th due to the men's CEW Retreat. ************** 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! ************* 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. ************* STILL CURRENT Now Hiring: President – Scott County Catholic Schools (SCCS) Scott County Catholic Schools is seeking a visionary and faith‑driven President to serve as the Chief Administrative Officer of our vibrant, multi‑school 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 long‑term 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 system‑wide 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 long‑range 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 ************ 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. ************ 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 ********** 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 ************ 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! **************** Art Newsletter Dav East Little League Flyer ********** 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. LINK TO SIGN UP ********** 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! February Recess Sign up Link March Recess Sign up Link April Recess Sign up Link May Recess Sign up Link ********** 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). *********** 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 . Family Trivia Flyer.jpg ********** 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 ************* WEEK AT A GLANCE
By Ethan Connors February 12, 2026
PRINCIPAL’S PONDERINGS February, the longest short month of the year. Somehow it’s the only month with fewer days and more attitude. One minute we’re cruising through the school year, and the next we’re asking, “Wait… how is it only February 11th!?” (And also, “How is it already February 11th!?”) The weather can’t decide what it wants to be, our routines are strong but our patience is being tested, and the calendar is packed even though the month is not. And yet, February still brings so many good things: students settling in, teachers pushing forward, and families doing the daily hero work of getting everyone up, fed, and out the door. As we make our way through this longest short month together, let’s remember to dress in layers, stay hydrated, and be extra kind to classmates, to staff, and to ourselves. Hang in there everyone. March is out there somewhere, probably hiding behind the next snowflake! Mr. Connors WHAT’S NEW Pick-Up and Drop-Off instructions We have noticed a concerning trend during both morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up: some K-8 students are being dropped off or picked up on Rusholme Street. This creates a significant backup, disrupts our normal traffic flow, and has nearly led to several accidents. Please follow the appropriate parking lot drop-off/pick-up procedures, which can be found here: Pick-Up and Drop-Off Procedures . If someone else brings your children to school or picks them up after school, please review these procedures with them as well. Our goal is to prevent any accidents that could occur due to traffic congestion and gridlock. We have ordered additional signage for these areas, but until it arrives, we appreciate your diligence and cooperation in keeping everyone safe. ************ Early Dismissal This Friday/No School Monday Just a reminder that we have an early dismissal this Friday, Feb. 13 at 12:55 and NO SCHOOL on Monday, Feb. 16. *********** Enrollment for 2026-2027 DUE THIS FRIDAY Re-enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is now open, and must be completed by February 13 to guarantee your spot for next year . When you start, please make sure you are registering for the 2026-2027 school year. If you already have an account but 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. Link to re-enroll: https://portal.sccsiowa.org/ 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. The enrollment fee must be paid and the online enrollment updated by Feb. 13 to be considered fully registered and save your spot for the 2026-27 school year. ********** Now Hiring: President – Scott County Catholic Schools (SCCS) Scott County Catholic Schools is seeking a visionary and faith‑driven President to serve as the Chief Administrative Officer of our vibrant, multi‑school 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 long‑term 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 system‑wide 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 long‑range 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 ************ 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. ************ 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 ************ Coach Sloth We will be having Author Coach Sloth at St. Paul’s next week. 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: Coach Sloth.pdf Paper order forms are also coming home with Kgn - 5th Graders ********** Winter Wonderland Family Reading Event Join us in Denning Hall on February 17th from 5:45-7:15 for a fun parent led evening. We will play Bingo for Books, reading games, and we will have a book swap. crafts, and prizes. We will also have pizza, cookies and juice. All families are welcome, Pre-School through 5th grade. See attached flier. Title I Reading Night Flyer ********** STILL CURRENT Home and School Skating Event Please join us tomorrow, Thursday, February 12 from 5PM - 9PM at “The Landing” in Bettendorf for a fun night of ice skating. H&S Ice Skating Flyer.jpeg ********** Tuition Rates for 2026-27 For the 2026–27 school year, our K–8 tuition rates will be $6,930 for parish-supported families and $8,930 for non–parish-supported families. For reference, the 2025–26 Education Savings Account (ESA) amount is $7,988, and the estimated ESA amount for 2026–27 is $8,148; however, the state has not approved any increase in funding for any schools at this time. ********** 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 ************ 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! **************** Art Newsletter Dav East Little League Flyer ********** 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. LINK TO SIGN UP ********** 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! February Recess Sign up Link March Recess Sign up Link April Recess Sign up Link May Recess Sign up Link ********** 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). *********** 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 . Family Trivia Flyer.jpg ********** 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 ************* WEEK AT A GLANCE
By Ethan Connors February 4, 2026
PRINCIPAL’S PONDERINGS Holy sickness! We have seen a rise in students being sick in all schools across the Scott County. Here are some helpful tips for parents. When your child is sick, please help us keep everyone healthy by keeping them home if they have a fever, vomiting or diarrhea, a persistent cough, or symptoms that are worsening or prevent them from fully participating in school. If symptoms are severe, don’t improve, or you suspect a contagious illness such as flu, strep, or pink eye, please contact your doctor. If your child is seen by a doctor, please provide the school with a note so we can document the absence and support any needed restrictions. Your child may return to school once they have been fever-free and symptom-free (vomiting/diarrhea) for 24 hours and are feeling well enough to complete a full school day. Thank you for your partnership in keeping our school community safe and healthy. Mr. Connors WHAT’S NEW Enrollment for 2026-2027 Re-enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is now open, and must be completed by February 13 to guarantee your spot for next year. When you start, please make sure you are registering for the 2026-2027 school year. If you already have an account but 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. Link to re-enroll: https://portal.sccsiowa.org/ 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. The enrollment fee must be paid and the online enrollment updated by Feb. 13 to be considered fully registered and save your spot for the 2026-27 school year. ********** Tuition Rates for 2026-27 For the 2026–27 school year, our K–8 tuition rates will be $6,930 for parish-supported families and $8,930 for non–parish-supported families. For reference, the 2025–26 Education Savings Account (ESA) amount is $7,988, and the estimated ESA amount for 2026–27 is $8,148; however, the state has not approved any increase in funding for any schools at this time. ********** Andy Craig Leaving SCCS at End of the School Year Andy Craig, President of Scott County Catholic Schools, has informed the Board and staff of his intent to step down at the conclusion of the 2025–26 school year. Mr. Craig has served Assumption Catholic Schools and SCCS for 20 years, providing faithful leadership and steadfast commitment to the mission of Catholic education. We extend our sincere congratulations to Mr. Craig and offer our heartfelt gratitude for his dedication and the lasting contributions he has made on behalf of our Catholic schools. *********** 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 ************ Block Party Meeting There will be a meeting to start planning the block party next Monday at 5:15 (before the Home and School meeting). Anyone interested in helping out can attend. Block Party Planning Meeting.png ************** 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! **************** STILL CURRENT Art Newsletter Dav East Little League Flyer ********** 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. LINK TO SIGN UP ********** Real Choices at SPS We are excited to announce that we are bringing Real Choices through the Women's Choice center to SPS! The other Catholic elementary buildings use this curriculum and it is utilized at AHS as well. 5th–8th grade students will be participating in REAL Changes, a healthy relationship and puberty education program using the evidence-based REAL Essentials curriculum. This instruction aligns with Iowa Department of Education SEL/PE/Health standards and supports students in building self-worth, making healthy decisions, and developing positive relationships. This is not something that we would describe as being similar to, "the talk." It is more focusing on being healthy mentally and physically. Presentations will take place in February during the school day and will be led by trained nurses and/or social workers. Parents/guardians are invited to a curriculum preview and Q&A on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School in the Media Center. Questions? Please contact Sarah Jansen, LISW, Director of Outreach and Education, at (563) 332-0475. You can also learn more at www.myrelationshipcenter.org . ************ 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! February Recess Sign up Link March Recess Sign up Link April Recess Sign up Link May Recess Sign up Link ********** 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). *********** Career Fair The School Counselors for the Scott County Catholic Schools, are asking for your help, as we begin preparing for our annual 8th grade career fair which will be Friday, March 6th, 2026, at St. Ambrose University Rogalski Center. We would like to extend the opportunity for any area businesses, employers, colleges, health care professionals, law enforcement agencies and other various career-related organizations to join us in educating our eighth grade students about the numerous employment opportunities that are available to them. Please see the attachments below for more details, as well as a sheet where you can sign up. If you have any questions, please reach out! Thank you for your consideration! Whitney Woods whitney.woods@st-paul.pvt.k12.ia.us 563-322-2923 Career Fair letter 2025-26.docx *********** 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 . Family Trivia Flyer.jpg ********** CEW Retreat Opportunities Make a New Year's Resolution that truly restores your soul. Resolve to attend St. Paul’s 2026 Women or Men’s Christian Experience Weekends (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 Sara Sieren, 563.210.6554 or Joe Verdi, 563.505.5207 Women’s Weekend: February 6-8, 2026 Men’s Weekend: February 27, March 1, 2026 ************* WEEK AT A GLANCE
By Ethan Connors January 29, 2026
PRINCIPAL’S PONDERINGS Good morning, SPS! This week is Catholic Schools Week, and we’re going to celebrate the gift of Catholic education with a lot of fun, dodgeball, volleyball, spelling bees, and more. Most importantly, we’ll celebrate the people who make SPS great: our students, staff, families, and parish community. Let’s make it a great week: Personal Best, Wise Choices, Act Responsibly, and Safety First! Mr. Connors WHAT’S NEW Enrollment for 2026-2027 Re-enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year will open today at 3:00PM, and must be completed by February 13 to guarantee your spot for next year . When you start, please make sure you are registering for the 2026-2027 school year. If that option is not available, please check back later or you will have to redo the entire application. If you have a child currently enrolled, but do not know your PowerSchool login information, please watch your email this afternoon for instructions on how to create your account. If you already have an account but 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. Link to re-enroll: https://portal.sccsiowa.org/ ********** Art Newsletter Dav East Little League Flyer ********** 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. LINK TO SIGN UP STILL CURRENT Real Choices at SPS We are excited to announce that we are bringing Real Choices through the Women's Choice center to SPS! The other Catholic elementary buildings use this curriculum and it is utilized at AHS as well. 5th–8th grade students will be participating in REAL Changes, a healthy relationship and puberty education program using the evidence-based REAL Essentials curriculum. This instruction aligns with Iowa Department of Education SEL/PE/Health standards and supports students in building self-worth, making healthy decisions, and developing positive relationships. This is not something that we would describe as being similar to, "the talk." It is more focusing on being healthy mentally and physically. Presentations will take place in February during the school day and will be led by trained nurses and/or social workers. Parents/guardians are invited to a curriculum preview and Q&A on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School in the Media Center. Questions? Please contact Sarah Jansen, LISW, Director of Outreach and Education, at (563) 332-0475. You can also learn more at www.myrelationshipcenter.org . ************ Catholic Schools Week Flyer Please see below for out of uniform and activity information for Catholic Schools Week next week. Y & O CSW 2026 *********** Science Fair Judges Needed Hello St. Paul Families, I am in search of volunteers with a strong science background or who are involved in a science or engineering career familiar with the steps and process of the scientific method. Tuesday, February 3rd from 8:00 to 10:30 is the 7th grade science fair. Students have worked for two and half months researching, setting up, and experimenting on a topic of their choice. I am seeking adult volunteers that would be willing to judge several seventh graders' overall experiment, presentation, report, and display. This would all be judged using a provided rubric. One request I have is that if you are the parent, grandparent, or directly connected to any seventh graders you are kindly asked not to volunteer to keep judging as fair as possible. If you or someone you know is interested, please reach out to Mrs. Kari Nydle at kari.nydle@st-paul.pvt.k12.ia.us. Thank you so much for considering! ************ Catholic Schools Week Service Project St. Ambrose University Global Brigade Collection During Catholic Schools Week, the students in grades 4-8 will be collecting school supplies for students in rural Panama who have little to no school supplies. St. Ambrose University students will travel to rural Panama in March 2026 with the "Global Brigade" organization to deliver these items and work with the people there to help in the education of their children. A flyer is attached. Supplies needed: notebooks, small backpacks, pencils, erasers, folders, stickers, construction paper, party favors. There is also a CR Code on the flyer so you can order items from Amazon to be sent to St. Ambrose University directly. Thank you for your support of this SPS service project! Global Brigades Wishlist QRCodeversion.pdf Mrs. Hannon ************* Approval Through Odyssey for the ESA The SCCS office has started to call families to remind them to approve second semester tuition in Odyssey. Approval must be completed by January 30th in order for second semester tuition to be paid with ESA funds. Parents should have received an email from Odyssey in early December notifying them of this deadline, however, we still have 400+ students whose spring tuition has not yet been approved. This is the link parents need to access their Odyssey account. https://iowa-households.withodyssey.com/login/ Please get this done by the 30th! *********** 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! January Recess Sign up Link February Recess Sign up Link March Recess Sign up Link April Recess Sign up Link May Recess Sign up Link ********** 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). *********** Book Fair Splash into a Good Book!—The Scholastic Book Fair is coming to our school! This is a great opportunity to build your child’s home library with new books they’ll dive into again and again. Save the Information below for this Years Book Fair : Dates: January 26th to February 1, 2026 Location: SPS Media Center Family Shopping Event: February 1st, 9:30 to 10:45 A.M, during Catholic Schools Week Open House For full details and to create an e-Wallet, visit our school’s Book Fair homepage: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/stpaulapostleschool *********** Career Fair The School Counselors for the Scott County Catholic Schools, are asking for your help, as we begin preparing for our annual 8th grade career fair which will be Friday, March 6th, 2026, at St. Ambrose University Rogalski Center. We would like to extend the opportunity for any area businesses, employers, colleges, health care professionals, law enforcement agencies and other various career-related organizations to join us in educating our eighth grade students about the numerous employment opportunities that are available to them. Please see the attachments below for more details, as well as a sheet where you can sign up. If you have any questions, please reach out! Thank you for your consideration! Whitney Woods whitney.woods@st-paul.pvt.k12.ia.us 563-322-2923 Career Fair letter 2025-26.docx *********** 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 . Family Trivia Flyer.jpg ********** CEW Retreat Opportunities Make a New Year's Resolution that truly restores your soul. Resolve to attend St. Paul’s 2026 Women or Men’s Christian Experience Weekends (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 Sara Sieren, 563.210.6554 or Joe Verdi, 563.505.5207 Women’s Weekend: February 6-8, 2026 Men’s Weekend: February 27, March 1, 2026 ************* WEEK AT A GLANCE



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Join Us in our 100th Anniversary Gala on May 1, 2026!

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St. Paul the Apostle School is Celebrating 100 Years!

We would love for all to join us in celebrating 100 years of our fantastic school! Whether you are a current parent or parishioner, an alumni, or simply a member of the community who wants to stay up-to-date on all our celebration plans, we invite you to fill out the brief contact form so we can keep you informed of all our celebration plans!

100th Anniversary Contact Form
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1

National Blue Ribbon

$207,963

In Financial Aid Last Year

14:1

Student Teacher Ration K-8

1:1

Technology Program