Dear Families of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School,

This Monday, January 20th, begins our re-enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year. To prepare for this, the School Finance Committee and School Advisory Committee have worked to carefully assess the budget and expenses while establishing next year’s tuition and fees. Please read the attached letter, tuition/fee schedule and tuition grant information for complete information on next year’s tuition and fees. We look forward to our Dolphins returning next year and wish all the best to our 8th grade students who are busily preparing to register for high school! Please reach out with any questions or concerns.

Only by His Grace,

Veronica Tucker

Principal

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.

NOTE ABOUT WEATHER NEXT WEEK

We are aware of the potential severe weather forecasted for next Tuesday. Please monitor your emails and texts from the school for any updates or changes to our schedule.

In the event of a cancellation, teachers will communicate with you via email regarding assignments that students can work on from home. These assignments are not intended to be difficult but are designed to help minimize the need for a weather make-up day should the diocese require one.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we prioritize the safety of our school community.

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!

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!

ST. ANTHONY SPIRIT GEAR - EXCLUSIVE!

Frou-Frou Frog has created exclusive custom designs just for our St. Anthony parents! These stylish and unique pieces are the perfect way to show your Dolphin pride. Even better, 15% of all sales will be donated back to our school, helping to support our students and community. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to snag some one-of-a-kind spirit gear while giving back to St. Anthony!

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! TODAY!

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!

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.

DOLPHINS BASKETBALL UPDATE:

This Week's Highlights:

Monday: The Dolphins hosted the Knights of St. Regis.

• C-Team fell short, 14–23.
• JV Boys lost a close one, 37–44.
• Varsity Boys came up short, 49–58.

Tuesday: The Dolphins took on St. Edward Catholic School at home.

• C-Team Boys secured a win, 16–8.
• Varsity Boys dominated with a decisive 48–25 victory over the Monarchs.

Wednesday: The Dolphins traveled to St. Martha to face the Panthers.

• JV Boys lost, 23–35.
• Varsity Boys fought hard but came up short, 36–42.

Thursday: The Dolphins faced the Magi of Epiphany on the road.

• JV Boys emerged victorious, 30–21.
• Varsity Boys narrowly lost, 29–32.
• Later that evening, JV Boys played another game at St. John XXIII High School, winning 30–21.

Friday (Today): JV Boys are participating 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 (Tomorrow):

• JV Boys will continue tournament play, with game times to be determined.

Next Week's Schedule:

Wednesday, January 22: The Dolphins travel to St. Theresa to take on the Vikings.

• C-Team Boys at 4:30 PM
• JV Boys at 5:30 PM
• Varsity Boys at 6:30 PM

Spring Sports Reminder: Don’t forget to sign up for Baseball, Softball, and Track!

Deadline: Friday, January 24.

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 NEWSLETTERS

BE SMART - Willpower and Habits

Many people have a tradition of setting resolutions at the start of the new year. If this sounds like you, you may have already noticed that your good intentions are not always leading to new or changed habits. Setting a new habit or changing an old one is more than just a matter of intention, it is often a combination of what we refer to as "willpower" – the mental energy required to do something that requires our self-control or other executive functioning skills – and identifying one or more tools and strategies that will help reinforce whatever behavior you're trying to change. 

Check out the January issue of the Smart Families Be Smart to learn more about willpower, habits and the science behind achieving your goals! 

BE NOT AFRAID - 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 1/13/25-1/17/25

3rd Grade: One report of Influenza

4th Grade: One report of norovirus and two other reported students with reported stomach symptoms

6th Grade: One report of Influenza 

8th Grade: One report of Influenza and one with stomach symptoms 

*I do not always get a diagnosis of the stomach bug/norovirus because not everyone’s symptoms linger long enough to warrant a doctor’s visit/diagnosis. If your child has stomach virus symptoms, please let me know so I can monitor the grade level activity.  

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.

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:

• Friday, Jan. 31 - Lego Party: 1st-4th Grade-https://e.givesmart.com/events/Dcr/i/_Auction/rftA/
• 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/

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#/

FELLOWSHIP SUNDAY RAFFLE SALES - 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#/

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. 

01/20/2025 - 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 

01/28/2025 - SPIRIT DRESS | Spirit Shirt & Jeans Day

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

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

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.

STOP IF YOU’RE STILL READING: Congratulations on making it this far! As a reward for your dedication, click the button below to enter a drawing for a St. Anthony Spirit Hat. It’s our way of saying thank you for staying informed and connected. Don’t miss out—enter now!