Dear Families of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School,

Happy New Year! Happy Jubilee Year of Hope! Pope Francis announced 2025 as the Jubilee Year of Hope challenging us to renew and deepen our faith. With an emphasis on mercy, reconciliation and living the Gospel, Pope Francis asks that we take this year to intentionally reflect on our relationship with God and to extend compassion and hope to those around us.

With the Christmas season ending on Epiphany, our hearts are full of hope and ready to embrace this special year. When announcing the Jubilee Year, Pope Francis stated, “Let us not forget that we are called to be a sign of hope in the world, bringing the light of Christ to those in darkness.” Pope Francis also wrote, “In the heart of each person, hope dwells as the desire and expectation of good things to come, despite our not knowing what the future may bring... For all of us, may the Jubilee be an opportunity to be renewed in hope. God’s word helps us find reasons for that hope.”

Only by His Grace,

Veronica Tucker

Principal 

NOTE ABOUT PLAYGROUND USE

While most schools close their playgrounds after school hours, we are happy to keep ours open until 3:45 pm for families who enjoy a bit of playtime and visiting with friends after the 3:30 pm dismissal.

To allow our staff to head home, spend time with their families, and prepare for the next day, our school officer will close the playground promptly at 3:45 pm. We kindly ask for your cooperation and kindness when this announcement is made.

Thank you for helping us maintain the safety and well-being of our school community!

CURRENT STUDENT RE-ENROLLMENT FOR 2025-2026

• Monday, Jan. 20-Wednesday, Jan. 29
• You will receive an email on January 20 when your student’s re-enrollment packet is ready on your FACTS Family Portal.
• Tuition and fee payments must be current on your FACTS account.
• If you have questions or need assistance contact Cathy Russell at crussell@ap.school.

SPIRIT NIGHT

Black Walnut, 9000 New Trails Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77381

Tuesday, Jan. 14 – 4:00 – 9:00 PM

A portion of sales will be donated back to our school!

PASTRIES WITH PARENTS

Friday, Jan. 24 | 7:00 - 7:40 AM. Join your student for a donut in the Gym, check out the Teacher Experiences Auction & Class Projects, walk students to class.

FATHER/DAUGHTER DANCE

Saturday, Jan. 25 | 6:30-8:00 PM

RSVP at: https://ap.school/father-daughter-dance

Join us for dancing, refreshments, and fun at our Father-Daughter Winter Wonderland Dance! It will be a magical evening that will enchant your daughter and be a special memory forever in her heart. Thank you for letting us know if you plan to attend!

CHESS CLUB - SPRING SIGN-UP

Mondays | 3:45-4:30 PM | Library

Open to 2nd-8th Grade

Starting Monday, Feb. 3. All 2nd graders and up are invited to join Chess Club with USA Chess. Cost is $140 per semester. All skill levels. Learn tactics and strategies. Rank up and earn prizes! CHESS CLUB REGISTRATION Questions? Contact info@usachess.com.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS

We’re looking to add to our list of Substitute Classroom Teachers. If you or someone you know is interested in making a difference in our school community, we’d love to hear from you!

🔗 Apply Here: Substitute Teacher Position - Job #1728

Feel free to share this opportunity, and reach out to Mrs. Tucker if you have any questions.

MEALS ON WHEELS SERVICE PROJECT - Jan. 21-24

As part of our Catholic Schools Week celebrations, our students will be assembling Breakfast Bags for homebound seniors through Meals on Wheels Montgomery County. This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to serve our community and make a difference!

We are collecting the following pre-packaged items to include in each bag:

• Packets of plain, instant oatmeal or grits
• Soft breakfast bars
• Individual cups of peanut butter
• Individual packs of cheese crackers or peanut butter crackers
• 100% juice boxes or single packs of instant coffee

When to Donate:

We will be collecting these items January 21-24 at the front desk of the school.

Thank you in advance for your generosity and support as we work together to bless our local seniors during this special week of service!

STEPS FOR STUDENTS - February 8, 2025

Steps for Students is an annual event benefitting all Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Galveston- Houston. Over the last 18 years, this exciting day of family fun has brought together our Catholic community for a sunrise Mass, sanctioned 5K race and a post-race party in the Catholic School Village. Thank you for supporting this effort. Join our team at: https://runsignup.com/apschool25.

There are 4 ways to participate:

1. 5K TIMED: Compete against other runners and your best 5K time on this route! Price: $20.00 Race Fee
2. 5K UNTIMED: Like the Timed 5K.... but not timed. Price: $18.00 Race Fee
3. FAMILY FUN RUN: Under a mile route. Price: $17.00 Race Fee
4. HIT THE SNOOZE FOR STUDENTS: Support Catholic schools without running the race! Register to Hit the Snooze and you will still receive the official race t-shirt shirt, but will not receive a bib or race medal. This is the option for those who would like to participate virtually. Price: $20.00 Race Fee

Please note: All family members attending Steps for Students must be registered to race.

Deadline to register and receive a St. Anthony Team dri-fit shirt is Jan. 17th!

All registration prices increase Jan. 31st! Students who join us for the 5K race and beat Mrs. Tucker's time will receive a Homework Pass!

Thank you to Doucet Safety Analysis for sponsoring our team shirts again this year and for Augi Giardia for inspiring our design!

DOLPHINS BASKETBALL UPDATE:

This Week:

• Thursday: The Dolphins hosted the Crusaders from Christ the Redeemer Catholic School. JV Boys: Won 28–14; Varsity Boys: Fell short, 37–50

Next Week:

• Monday, January 13: The Dolphins host the Knights from St. Regis.
• JV Boys: 4:30 PM, Varsity Boys: 5:30 PM
• Tuesday, January 14: The Dolphins host the Cougars from St. Edward.
• C-Team Boys: 4:30 PM, Varsity Boys: 5:30 PM
• Wednesday, January 15: The Dolphins travel to St. Martha to face the Panthers.
• JV Boys: 4:30 PM, Varsity Boys: 5:30 PM
• Thursday, January 16: The Dolphins head to St. John XXIII High School to take on the Magi from Epiphany Catholic School.
• JV Boys: 4:30 PM, Varsity Boys: 5:30 PM
• Friday, January 17: The JV Boys team competes in the St. Vincent de Paul JV Boys Basketball Tournament at The Zone athletic facility.
• Pool Games:
• 7:10 PM vs. Lutheran South Academy
• 8:45 PM vs. SEAS
• Saturday, January 18: The JV Boys team continues tournament play.
• Game Times: TBD

GO DOLPHINS!

SPRING SPORTS SIGN-UP: 5th - 8th Grades

Baseball, Softball, & Track Commitment Form – Deadline: Friday 1/24/25

The Spring Sports season is just around the corner. It is time to find out who is willing to make the commitment to St. Anthony’s Baseball, Softball or Track programs. Please be reminded that participating on a St. Anthony athletic team involves a commitment by athletes - to the team, coaches, and teammates. Athletes are expected to attend ALL St. Anthony practices and games/meets. Each student-athlete must maintain the required academic and conduct levels as stated per the St. Anthony Athletic Handbook.

FOR MORE INFO: https://ap.school/sports-commitment

SMART FAMILIES - MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

Overconnectedness & God's Whisper

As Christians, prayer is the source of faith. It is the lifeblood of our souls, nourished by the Word of God. Smartphone and social media use is directly attacking our prayer life and our relationship with God. Technology has stolen the two most important things we can offer God, our time and attention. Boredom should be an invitation to turn to God in prayer, instead we quickly turn to our phones to be entertained. God isn't going to follow you on social media; He wants you to come to Him in prayer. He desires a real connection and it takes time to cultivate that relationship. 

NURSE NOTES

For 1/6/25 - 1/10/25:

Happy New Year! No specific illness to report this week.  

As a review:

• Please remind your child(ren) the importance of covering a cough/sneeze and proper handwashing. 😊
• All medication (including over-the-counter medication) should be turned in to the clinic with the medication permission form and dispensed through the clinic.
• Students who have been ill with vomiting or fever should remain home for at least 24 hours. For vomiting: remain home until vomiting has subsided for 24 hours and student is able to keep food/drink down. For fever: student should remain home until fever free without fever reducing medications for 24 hours. Thank you in advance for adhering to this rule to help with preventing further spread of viruses.  

GALA TICKETS

Don’t miss your chance to secure tickets for The One Gala, happening March 1, 2025! Celebrate an unforgettable evening of fun, food, and fundraising in support of our school.

Paduan Patrons - $650

• Two seats at the Gala
• Two tickets to after-party
• Recognition on the sponsor page of program
• Recognition in the Annual Report

Individual Ticket - $200

Individual After-Party Ticket - $125

SPONSORSHIPS & UNDERWRITING OPPORTUNITIES

There’s still time to support The One Gala through sponsorships or underwriting!

• Sponsorships include tickets or tables for the gala, offering the perfect opportunity to enjoy the evening while showcasing your name or company in our materials.
• Underwriting, on the other hand, supports the event directly without including tickets, making it a meaningful way to contribute behind the scenes.

AUCTION DONATIONS - We need your help!

The One Gala Committee is looking for exciting items and services to feature in our Live and Silent Auctions. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

• Travel: Resort stays, family vacation homes, private jets, or unique getaways.
• Sports & Fitness: VIP tickets, lessons, golf packages, or premium gear.
• Dining & Entertainment: Restaurant experiences, wine tours, private chefs, or event passes.
• Home & Lifestyle: Electronics, themed gift baskets, home décor, or spa packages.
• Unique Experiences: Exotic car rentals, hot air balloon rides, or behind-the-scenes tours.

Want to make it easy? Check out our Amazon Registry to donate specific items directly!

To discuss a donation, email Katie Tressel at ktressel@ap.school or submit details via our auction donation form. Thank you for supporting The One Gala! 🎉

The deadline to receive auction donations is January 31, 2025!

SIGN-UP PARTIES

We are excited about our Gala Sign-up Parties! Gala Sign-up Parties are hosted by faculty or families and can be adult, family or child-centered—and most importantly, FUN! All proceeds from Gala Sign-up Parties benefit our school and students! If you would like to host a sign-up party, please reach out to advancement@ap.school.

LEGO PARTY - More spots added!

For 1st - 4th Grade

Friday, Jan. 31

4:00-6:30 PM

BOWLING PARTY

For 4th Grade

Friday, Feb. 7

4:30-7:00 PM

BOWLING PARTY

For 5th Grade

Friday, Feb. 7

4:30 - 7:00 PM

SOLD OUT SIGN-UP PARTIES:

• Thursday, Feb. 6 – Breakfast Break: 6th-8th Grade- https://e.givesmart.com/events/Dcr/i/_Auction/rftF/
• Thursday, Feb. 6 – Pizza with the Principals: Kinder-2nd Grade- https://e.givesmart.com/events/Dcr/i/_Auction/rftD/ 
• Thursday, Feb. 6 – Pizza with the Principals: 3rd – 5th Grade-https://e.givesmart.com/events/Dcr/i/_Auction/rftE/
• Friday, Feb. 7 – Pizza with the Principals: Kinder-2nd Grade-https://e.givesmart.com/events/Dcr/i/_Auction/rftI/
• Friday, Feb. 7 – Pizza with the Principals: 3rd-5th Grade-https://e.givesmart.com/events/Dcr/i/_Auction/rftJ/

FELLOWSHIP SUNDAY RAFFLE SALES - Jan. 12 & Feb. 9

Thank you so much for helping us sell Raffle Tickets for the The One Gala!

• Parents or students who sign-up to help with Raffle Sales can count 1 Paduan Point or service hour (students must be supervised by parents due to money exchange) per shift. 
• Parents or students can also count any tickets sold to their family's ticket sales total!
• Additional details about raffle ticket sales will be emailed to sellers prior to their shift. 

SIGN-UP AT: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0F45A8AF29A6FC1-53377092-winners#/

PASTRIES WITH PARENTS SET-UP - Jan. 23 We need assistance with setting up for Pastries with Parents on Thursday, Jan. 23 after school. Set-up will begin at 4:00 PM after dismissal. Thank you for assisting! Many hands make light work!

PLEASE NOTE: We will be setting up chairs and tables for the event. Students are welcome to stay; however, they will need to keep clear of the work area so we can complete the setup efficiently. Thank you for your cooperation!

SIGN-UP AT: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0F45A8AF29A6FC1-54331855-pastries

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK - SERVICE PROJECT HELP

We’re looking for parent volunteers to help divide and organize the donated items on Tuesday, Jan. 28 for Meals on Wheels so that everything is ready for students to assemble during their Paduan Pods. We also need help the morning of our Paduan Pods on Thursday, Jan. 30.

SIGN-UP AT: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0F45A8AF29A6FC1-54298346-parent#/

MONDAYS - Chess Club, 3:45-4:30 PM.

MONDAYS - Spanish Culture Club, 3:45-4:30 PM.

MONDAYS - Violin Club, 3:45-4:30 PM.

TUESDAYS - Student Rosary Group, 7:15 AM in Paduan Center. 

WEDNESDAYS - Parent Rosary Group (English) 8:00 AM, PLB Room 204.

WEDNESDAYS - Mass Choir, 6:45 AM, Sheltz Hall.

WEDNESDAYS - Art Club, 3:45-5:00 PM, Art Room.

WEDNESDAYS - Run Club, 3:45-4:30 PM, Sports Fields.

THURSDAYS - Parent Rosary Group (Spanish) 8:15 AM, PLB Room 204

Please check the calendar and/or communications from club advisors regarding cancellations or changes. 

01/13/2025 - ASSEMBLY | Monday Morning Assembly

01/13/2025 - COMMITTEE MEETING | Advancement. 8:15 AM, Conference Room

01/14/2025 – SPIRIT NIGHT | Black Walnut | 4:00 – 9:00 PM, A portion of sales will be donated back to our school!

01/15/2025 - MASS | Wednesday of the 1st Week of Ordinary Time | 1A, 8:30 AM, Church

01/15/2025 - PARENT MEETING | Room Parents, 9:30 AM, Paduan Center

01/16/2025 - COMMITTEE MEETING | Finance

01/16/2025 - COMMITTEE MEETING | School Advisory

01/17/2025 - COMMITTEE MEETING | The One Gala, 8:15 AM, Paduan Center

01/20/2025 - ADMISSIONS EVENT | Current Student Re-Enrollment for 2025-2026

01/20/2025 - SCHOOL HOLIDAY | Martin Luther King Day

01/22/2025 - MASS | Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children | 1B, 8:30 AM, Church

01/23/2025 - ADMISSIONS EVENT | Campus Tour, 10:00 AM

01/24/2025 - PEP RALLY | Winter

01/24/2025 - SPECIAL EVENT | Pastries with Parents, 7:00-7:40 AM, Gym

01/25/2025 - SPECIAL EVENT | Father-Daughter Dance, 6:30-8:00 PM, Gym

01/26/2025 - SPECIAL EVENT | National Catholic Schools Week

01/27/2025 - STUDENT EVENT | Paduan Pods 

01/29/2025 - MASS | Wednesday of the 3rd Week of Ordinary Time | 5A, 8:30 AM, Church

01/30/2025 - ADMISSIONS EVENT | Future Family Open House, 6:30-8:00 PM

01/31/2025 - SPIRIT DRESS | Spirit Shirt & Jean Day

02/02/2025 - MASS | National Catholic Schools Week Mass | Sunday of the 4th Week of Ordinary Time, 9:00 AM, Church

Full Calendar available in FACTS!

To subscribe to our FACTS school calendar copy and paste this URL into your calendar app:

https://saty-tx.client.renweb.com/pwr/school/ical.cfm?u=11371&h=2D672FF8548A&s=&ut=STAFF&f2=0&sc=SAPCS&t=s

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FREE THROW CONTEST

Sunday, January 12 | 12:30 - 3:00 pm | St. Anthony Gym

Join us for this fun annual event! The contest will be held in the St. Anthony of Padua gymnasium. This event is open to Girls and Boys aged 9 to 14 years. Age eligibility is determined by the age of the contestant as of January 1, 2025.

Gender and age groups will compete separately. All are welcome - including non-parishioners. Bring a friend!

Registration will begin on the day of the event at 12:30pm in the gymnasium. 

FRASSATI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL - January Open House - January 15

The Frassati Catholic Open House is the perfect event for 6th-8th grade students and families interested in becoming Frassati Falcons. On Wednesday, January 15, from 6-8pm you're invited to the Frassati Catholic Open House for an info session and tours of campus. Learn more about Frassati Catholic, meet current students and faculty, and take the opportunity to see what life is like at a Frassati Falcon. RSVP at https://www.frassaticatholic.org/openhouse.

For questions about Frassati Catholic enrollment, please contact Director of Enrollment, Mr. Tim Lienhard at admissions@frassaticatholic.org.

TOGETHER IN HOLINESS FORMATION SERIES

In partnership with the St. John Paul II Foundation, St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church invites married couples in their early years of marriage or with children in the home to participate in the Together in Holiness Formation series!

The Together in Holiness Formation series provides year-round marriage enrichment for small communities of spouses that equips them with the formation, encouragement, support, and practical tools to grow together in holiness and form their children in the Catholic faith. Click here to view the Trailer!

Highlights:

• A meal and time for fellowship 
• Short and beautifully-made videos with national speakers including Danielle Bean and Damon Owens
• Discussion facilitated by Host Couples who are formed and supported by the St. John Paul II Foundation 
• A Bring it Home component that translates learning into living  

The registration cost for the year is $75 per couple. Interested? Click here to get started! For more information, contact Kevin and Courtnie Mims at mims.courtnie@gmail.com.