Dear Families of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School,

As we all know, the Pastor of the Universal Church, Pope Francis, died on Easter Monday and his funeral was celebrated last Saturday. This was the 5th Pope of my lifetime. While I don’t remember Pope Paul VI, or Pope John Paul I, I remember well Pope John Paul II and his successors. I remember the conclaves who elected Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis. And we find ourselves again in this “limbo” time waiting for our next Holy Father to be elected by the conclave. In recent days and weeks, much has been posted about Pope Francis. My favorite is something he wrote in a recent hospital visit. The entire reflection can be found here: Pope Francis reflecting from hospital: - Association Of Catholic Priests but I wanted to share what I found most impactful:

“This life will pass quickly, so do not waste it fighting with people.

Do not criticize your body too much.

Do not complain excessively.

Do not lose sleep over bills.

Make sure to hug your loved ones.

Do not worry too much about keeping the house spotless.

Material goods must be earned by each person—do not dedicate yourself to accumulating an inheritance…

You are waiting for too much: Christmas, Friday, next year, when you have money, when love arrives, when everything is perfect…

Listen, perfection does not exist.

A human being cannot attain it because we are simply not made to be fulfilled here.

Here, we are given an opportunity to learn.

So, make the most of this trial of life—and do it now.

Respect yourself, respect others. Walk your own path, and let go of the path others have chosen for you.

Respect: do not comment, do not judge, do not interfere.

Love more, forgive more, embrace more, live more intensely!

And leave the rest in the hands of the Creator.”

What a powerful reminder. In any encounter, job, school, or family, we have moments when we disagree, experience frustration or simply don’t understand the point of view of another. I pray that we think of this challenge from Pope Francis and be open to working together with the goal of understanding the other as we strive not to judge, not to gossip, not to create an unkind post or send a hurtful e-mail, but instead know that no one is perfect, that all deserve respect and that we are called to always manifest love and forgiveness.

Dear Lord, Give Pope Francis eternal rest and let perpetual light shine upon him. Amen.

Only by His Grace,

Veronica Tucker

Principal 

TONIGHT!🎭✨ Follow the Yellow Brick Road with us!

Join us for our production of The Wizard of Oz on Friday, May 2 at 6:30 PM.

Our talented students have been working hard to bring this beloved story to life — you won’t want to miss this magical evening of music, adventure, and heart! 🌈👠

🌸 May Crowning 🌸 May Crowning is a cherished Catholic tradition where we honor the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of May, with flowers and prayers. This year, our May Crowning ceremony will take place on Wednesday, May 7, at 8:30 AM. We invite students to bring in a single flower on Tuesday, May 6, as an offering to Our Lady.

We need parent volunteers to help with sorting the flowers on Tuesday, May 6! Please consider lending a hand by signing up here: May Crowning Volunteer Signup. Your support helps make this beautiful tradition even more special!

🍋 “Grazie, Maestri!” – A Week on the Amalfi Coast

Teacher Appreciation Week | May 5–9, 2025

Let’s take our incredible teachers on a (pretend!) escape to the Amalfi Coast — filled with sunshine, gelato, and sweet student gestures each day!

Monday, May 5 — “La Dolce Vita” (The Sweet Life)

• Student Treat: Bring your teacher a handwritten note or drawing saying why they’re “the zest!” (Printable letter template)
• Teacher Treat: Italian café-inspired espresso & pastry bar in the lounge — cappuccinos, croissants, and biscotti to start the week with a smile. (SignUpGenius)

Tuesday, May 6 — “Mangia, Mangia!” (Eat, Eat!)

• Student Treat: Bring your teacher a flower (real or handmade!) to brighten their day and say grazie! (It’s also the day to turn in your May Crowning flowers).
• Teacher Treat: Catered Italian lunch in the lounge, provided by Paduan Parents. Parent volunteers needed to bring in desserts and drinks and cover lunch duty. (SignUpGenius: May 6)

Wednesday, May 7 — “Rilassati a Sorrento” (Relax in Sorrento)

• Student Treat: Bring your teacher a small self-care item (lip balm, lotion, tea bag, bath bomb, etc.) — and tell them to relax like they’re on the coast!
• Teacher Treat: Spa-like waters, teas, and fruits in the teacher lounge.

 Thursday, May 8 — “Tinte di Gratitudine” (Shades of Gratitude)

• Student Treat: Wear your teacher’s favorite color (with uniform bottoms) in their honor!
• Teacher Treat: BBQ lunch hosted by the Knights of Columbus. Parent volunteers needed to bring in desserts and drinks and cover lunch duty. (SignUpGenius: May 8)

Friday, May 9 — ““Arrivederci, Amalfi!”

• Student Treat: Send your teacher off into the weekend with a favorite snack, treat, or small gift card — something they can enjoy!
• Teacher Treat: “Carousel’s Icery Truck” visits campus to serve refreshing frozen treats to our teachers!

Lost & Found: Glasses & Jewelry

Missing a pair of glasses or a favorite piece of jewelry? Check the Lost & Found at the front desk! We have a collection of small personal items that have been turned in throughout the year. Any unclaimed items will be disposed of after the last day of school, so please stop by soon if you think something might be yours!

DNN-4/25/25

Check out this week's episode of Dolphin Network News!

🏃‍♀️ Dolphins Track Team Shines at GHCAA Meet of Champions 🏃‍♀️

On Saturday, our Dolphins Track Team wrapped up their season at the GHCAA Meet of Champions, held at Strake Jesuit High School. Our athletes gave it their all and proudly represented St. Anthony!

Meet Highlights:

• 6th Grade Boys 100-Yard Dash – Mikey Peschier: 6th Place
• 6th Grade Girls 800-Meter Run – Madison Laborde: 6th Place
• 6th Grade Girls Mile Run – Madison Laborde: 2nd Place
• 7th Grade Boys 800-Meter Run – Alan Aertker: 3rd Place
• 7th Grade Boys Mile Run – Alan Aertker: 2nd Place
• 7th Grade Girls Mile Run – Ana Lucia Yepiz Zamora: 5th Place
• 8th Grade Girls Mile Run – Amelia Romer: 7th Place

Congratulations to all our athletes for a fantastic finish to the season, and a big thank you to Coach Ethan Houlston for your leadership and dedication! Go Dolphins!

🏃‍♂️ Fun Field Day – Tuesday, May 21

Our annual Fun Field Day is coming up on Tuesday, May 21, and we can’t wait for a day full of games, team spirit, and fun! Dismissal will be at 12:00 PM—no lunch or snacks needed.

Dress Code Reminder:

Students should wear athletic shoes and school-appropriate shorts (must reach fingertip length). Each class has been assigned a t-shirt color—no need to purchase anything new, just find something close at home!

T-Shirt Colors by Class:

Pre-K3 – Neon Green

Pre-K4A – Red

Pre-K4B – Green

KA – Blue

KB – Tie-Dye

1A – Yellow

1B – Purple

2A – Blue

2B – Green

3A – Turquoise

3B – Camo

4A – Light Blue

4B – Black

5A – Orange

5B – Gray

6A – Pink

6B – Red

7A – Teal

7B – Navy

👉 Volunteer Help Needed!

Sign up to join the fun: Fun Field Day Volunteer Sign-Up

For full details on dress guidelines, water stations, and event plans, please see the attached letter from Mrs. Koett.

Uniform Updates & Measuring Event – Mark Your Calendar!

As we enter the final year of our Uniform Transition Plan, a few important updates are in place for the 2025–2026 school year. Please note the following:

✅ Required New Logo Items:

• All plaid shirts and jumpers (PreK–5th boys, PreK–3rd girls)
• Outerwear (only navy options from FlynnO’Hara)
• Middle School skirts (khaki or plaid only – no skorts)
• Middle School pants/shorts (khaki only)
• 🚫 No old logo items will be permitted starting in the 2025–2026 school year.

🎉 To help families prepare, we’re excited to host a Uniform Measuring Event on Friday, June 6, 2025, from 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School. FlynnO’Hara representatives will be on campus to measure students, answer questions, and help with uniform purchases.

🔗 Click here to sign up for a time slot

We recommend shopping at least one month before school starts to ensure you’re ready for the new year! For more info or to shop online, visit: flynnohara.com/shop/st-anthony-of-padua-tx107

🎶 Take Me Out to the Ballgame… 🎶

Join us as our school choir takes the field to sing the National Anthem at the Houston Astros Labor Day game on Monday, September 1 at 1:10 PM! Let’s fill the stands with school spirit—purchase your tickets to sit with our group and get ready to cheer on the Astros together!

🎟️ Purchase tickets here

Don't miss this special performance and a fun afternoon at the ballpark! 💙⚾❤️

2024–2025 Middle School Basketball Coaches Needed

St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School is seeking dedicated coaches for the Middle School Boys C-Team and JV Basketball teams. The season runs from mid-October through February, with practices and games on weekdays after 3:30 PM. Coaches should have experience, strong communication skills, and be positive Christian role models. This is a stipend-only position, and all coaches must complete required trainings through the Archdiocese. Contact: Dale Quickel at dquickel@ap.school.

2025 Fall JV & Varsity Soccer Coaches Needed

We are looking for enthusiastic Coed JV and Varsity Soccer Coaches for the Fall 2025 season. Practices begin the first day of school (August 12) and the season runs through mid-October. JV focuses on development, while Varsity competes for the GHCAA Championship. Coaches must be experienced, have a heart for mentoring students, and serve as Christian role models. Stipend-only position; all required Archdiocesan trainings must be completed. Contact: Dale Quickel at dquickel@ap.school

2026 Varsity Baseball Coach Opening

We are hiring a Varsity Baseball Coach for Spring 2026. The season begins in February and ends in late April, with practices and games scheduled during weekday afternoons. All student athletes are welcome, and no cuts are made. The coach should bring experience, strong fundamentals, and a positive Christian presence to the team. This is a stipend-only role requiring Archdiocesan training and certification. Contact: Dale Quickel at dquickel@ap.school

☀️ Summer Camps at St. Anthony – June 2-6! 🎨🎭📚🔬🎥

Join us for a fun and engaging week of summer camps at St. Anthony from June 2-6! Our diverse lineup of camps offers students hands-on learning experiences in art, drama, STEM, science, broadcasting, and more!

📅 Camp Schedule:

🕘 Morning Session: 9 AM – Noon

🕐 Afternoon Session: 1 PM – 4 PM

🌟 Camp Offerings:

🎨 Art Camp (Mrs. Ettman) Campers will create delightful doodles, dynamic line designs and dazzling drawings! We will take basic lines and shapes, learn to recognize them in our environment and combine them to start drawing what we see. Older campers will experiment with shading and perspective in order to create realistic three-dimensional images.

• Morning: Rising 1st – 3rd Grade; $250 (FULL)
• Sign-up: https://form.jotform.com/250564317501147

• Afternoon: Rising 4th – 8th Grade; $250 (2 spots left)
• Sign-up: https://form.jotform.com/250565017873157

📖 Summer Smarty Party (Mrs. Blakesley & Mrs. Morgan)

Calling all Rising 1st – Rising 4th Graders! Get ready for a week of games, crafts, learning, and fun with Ms. Morgan and Mrs. Blakesley at our Summer Smarty Party Camp! This exciting camp will include STEM and Literacy Enrichment activities designed to keep young minds engaged and inspired.

• Morning: Rising 1st – 4th Grade; $250 (FULL)
• Afternoon: Rising 1st – 4th Grade; $250 (FULL)

🔬 Science Camp (Mrs. Johnston & Ms. Burnette)

Join Mrs. Johnston & Ms. Burnette for an exciting week of hands-on discovery at Science Explorers Camp! Designed for rising Kindergarten and 1st grade students, this camp will spark curiosity through fun experiments, interactive activities, and exciting science adventures.

• Morning: Rising Kindergarten & 1st Grade; $250 (FULL)

📝 Kinder Prep Camp (Mrs. Johnston & Ms. Burnette)

Designed for incoming Kindergarteners, this fun and engaging camp will help little learners build confidence through hands-on activities in literacy, math, and social skills.

• Afternoon: Rising Kindergarten; $250
• https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1RDM0VJJgWW_w4r_rWJBAHGPF0WriA8rdCTQUyzJztgc/edit?pli=1

🎥 Broadcast Camp (Mrs. Blouin & Mrs. Failde) (Limited to 10 students per session)

Step into the world of media production! Aspiring broadcasters in rising 5th-8th grade will spend a week learning the ins and outs of  broadcasting—operating cameras, filming segments, editing footage, and delivering the news just like the pros. By Friday, campers will have created their own DNN News Show to share with family and friends. Whether they want to be on air or behind the lens, this hands-on camp is the perfect place to explore media, storytelling, and production in a fun and fast-paced setting.

• Morning: Rising 7th – 8th Grade; $250
• Afternoon: Rising 5th – 6th Grade; $250
• Sign-up: https://form.jotform.com/250585929187169

⛺ Happy Fun Camp (Ms. McDowell)

Camp out (in the A/C) this summer with Ms. McDowell! Tell scary stories around the campfire (prop), sing silly songs about the outdoor life (inside), make delicious (not) hot S'hmoes, and finish the week sewing a teddy bear to donate to kids in the community!   ⛺🔥🎶

• Morning: Rising 4th & 5th Grade; $250
• Afternoon: Rising 6th – 8th Grade; $250
• Sign-up: https://form.jotform.com/250605706708154

We can’t wait for a summer full of learning and fun! If you have any questions about any of these camps, please contact the camp organizers directly.

SMART FAMILIES

As we reflect on this past school year, we are celebrating the incredible partnership we have with Smart Families. Through their program and presentations, our students and families have been supported and empowered to build communities that engage with technology in a healthy, intentional way. 

This special celebration edition of the Smart Families newsletter is packed with reflections, wins, testimonies, and a sneak peek at what’s ahead—and it’s all because of the incredible community that has grown around this movement. 

NURSE NOTES

Reported Illnesses For 4/28/25-5/2/25:

No reported specific illnesses this week! 😊

Please remember to submit any updated immunization records to Mrs. Pavlock at lpavlock@ap.school following your child’s well visits.

Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week | MAY 5-9

Let’s take our incredible teachers on a (pretend!) escape to the Amalfi Coast — filled with sunshine, gelato, and sweet student gestures each day! We have several SignUpGenius’ for ways to help this week. Find them all here: https://www.signupgenius.com/tabs/33774D702A6C9E8C71-teacher1. Change between signups at the tabs or drop-down at the top.

FUN FIELD DAY

Get ready for Fun Field Day — and we need YOUR help to make it a blast! SignUpGenius: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0F45A8AF29A6FC1-56370830-funfield#/. All volunteers must be Safe Environment compliant. Thank you for helping us create an awesome day for our students!

🎉 Be Part of Our 25th Anniversary Gala Committee!

We’re kicking off plans for our 25th Annual Gala—and we’d love for you to join us!

📅 Gala Committee Meeting

🕗 Tuesday, May 13, 2025 | 8:15 AM

📍 Paduan Center

Come meet our Gala Chairs, get a sneak peek at next year’s theme, and learn how you can be part of planning this milestone celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or new to the team, we welcome all levels of involvement. Let’s make our 25th Gala one to remember!

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 - 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. 

05/05/2025 - COMMITTEE MEETING | Advancement, 8:15 AM

05/05/2025 - PARENT MEETING | Sacramental Preparation | 1st Grade

05/05/2025 - SERVICE PROJECT | Book Buddies

05/05/2025 - SPECIAL EVENT | Teacher Appreciation Week | La Dolce Vita

05/06/2025 - SERVICE PROJECT | Book Buddies | Piazza

05/06/2025 - SPECIAL EVENT | Teacher Appreciation Week | Mangia! Mangia!

05/07/2025 - MASS | May Crowning: Feast of St. Joseph, the Worker | 2nd Grade, 8:30 AM, Church

05/07/2025 - SPECIAL EVENT | Teacher Appreciation Week | Rilassati a Sorrento

05/08/2025 - COMMITTEE MEETING | Finance

05/08/2025 - COMMITTEE MEETING | School Advisory

05/08/2025 - SPECIAL EVENT | Teacher Appreciation Week | Tinte di Gratitudine

05/08/2025 - STUDENT EVENT | Invention Convention, 2:40 PM

05/09/2025 - EXAMS | 8th Grade Finals

05/09/2025 - SPECIAL EVENT | Band Showcase: Band 1 at 6:00 PM, Band 2 at 7:15 PM

05/09/2025 - SPECIAL EVENT | Teacher Appreciation Week | Arrivederci, Amalfi!

05/09/2025 - SPIRIT DAY | Spirit Shirt & Jeans



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

Looking for a way to keep your child active this summer?

Check out Northside Running and Tri Youth programs! Northside Youth Info

This program is a great way for kids to stay moving and have fun. The coaching team includes familiar faces: Coach Cabriana, a former St. Anthony parent, and Coach Sharon, our very own Cross Country Coach! Many of our former students continue to train with Northside Youth and Tri. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to keep your child engaged and active all summer long!

⛳ Deacon Mike Mims Memorial Golf Tournament – May 6, 2025

Our parish is incredibly excited to host the Deacon Mike Mims Memorial Golf Tournament on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Augusta Pines Golf Course! This special event honors the life and legacy of Deacon Mike, whose deep passion for service and dedication to our parish ministries left a lasting impact on our community.

As we celebrate his memory, we invite you to join us in supporting the event—whether by sponsoring a hole, a meal, or any level of involvement. Your support not only honors Deacon Mike’s legacy, but also helps us continue his mission of compassion and outreach.

🏌️‍♂️ Ready to play or sponsor?

Register here: Event Registration & Sponsorship Info

Questions? Email jcorona@ap.church

JCDA Meeting – All Girls Ages 6–18 Welcome!

Interested in faith, fun, and friendship? Come learn more about the Junior Catholic Daughters of the Americas (JCDA) at our upcoming meeting on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, from 5–6 PM at the St. Teresa Center.

JCDA is a wonderful opportunity for girls ages 6–18 to grow in their faith, serve their community, and build lasting friendships. We’d love to meet you and share what we’re all about! 📞 For more information, contact Alexa Kreikemeier at 713.817.2272.

Come and join us!

ECyD Summer Camp 2025 | May 27 – June 3

Boys ages 9–15 are invited to join this faith-filled adventure at Holy Rosary Parish in Frenstat, TX! With a focus on prayer, formation, sports, and mission, this dynamic camp helps young men grow in the gifts God has given them. Boys age 16 may apply to participate as team leaders. Cost is $425, and scholarships are available.

Register today: Summer Camp Registration

Questions? Contact Fr. Chad Everts, LC at ceverts@legionaries.org.

📣 Summer Camp Opportunities at Frassati Catholic

Frassati Catholic High School will be hosting a variety of summer camps this year, perfect for elementary and middle school students looking to build skills, make new friends, and have some summer fun!

🎭 Middle School Theater Camp

📅 June 2–6 | ⏰ 9:00 AM–12:00 PM | 💵 $150

Open to rising 6th–8th graders, this exciting camp is led by Drs. Cody and Lindsay Medina and includes acting, stage movement, lighting, makeup design, and more!

🏀🏈⚽🏐 Youth Athletics Camps

Future Falcons can get moving with Frassati's awesome sports camps for a variety of age groups:

• Basketball (Rising 2nd–8th Grade): June 2–6
• Football (Rising 2nd–8th Grade): June 9–10
• Soccer (Rising 5th–8th Grade): June 16–18
• Middle School Volleyball (Rising 6th–8th Grade): July 24–25

🔗 Learn more and register at: frassaticatholic.org/summer

Cathedral High School Summer Programs

Cathedral High School in Houston, TX, is excited to offer a diverse range of summer camps for students entering grades 6–12. Running from June 9 to August 1, these programs provide opportunities for students to explore new interests, develop skills, and engage in enriching activities.

✍️ Catholic Summer Writing Camps – June 9–13

Looking for a creative and faith-filled summer activity for your child? Catholic Literary Arts is offering Summer Writing Camps for students in grades 3–12, June 9–13 at the University of St. Thomas in Houston. Students will grow as writers through engaging workshops in fiction, poetry, sacred storytelling, and more—led by Catholic authors and educators.