December 2025 – St. Paul of the Cross Catholic School

December 18, 2025

Principal’s Message

Dear SPC Families,
As we celebrate Christmas, I wish each of you abundant blessings and a truly joy-filled holiday. May the light of the Christ Child continue to guide and inspire us throughout the year ahead.

Congratulations to our Preschool–3rd grade students, who beautifully sang at their concert Thursday morning. Their joy and enthusiasm were truly a gift to all who attended.

A heartfelt thank you to the families who contributed to the Home and School Faculty Gift Fund. We are deeply grateful for your generosity and continued support.

Up and Coming

Celebrating the Spirit – January 30
Invitations were sent home on Thursday with your oldest or only student, so please be sure to check backpacks. We hope you’ll join us for this special evening, additional details are included below.

SPC Legacy Award
We invite you to help us honor those who have helped shape the legacy of St. Paul of the Cross School. If you know someone whose life and work exemplify the spirit and values of SPC, we encourage you to submit a nomination. Details and the nomination link can be found below.

Wishing you peace, joy, and many blessings this Christmas season.

“inflammate omnia—“go, set the world on fire.”

James White
Principal

Celebrating the Spirit

Invitations Went Home Thursday!
We are excited to invite you to Celebrating the Spirit on January 30! Celebrating the Spirit invitations went home with your oldest/only Thursday, so please check those backpacks! Please visit the CTS website here to purchase your tickets, well wishes, and sponsorships!

Well Wishes!

What an incredible number of Well Wishes coming in! The CTS program book will be filled with them! Don’t miss out! Purchase your Well Wish here. These awesome Well Wishes will be published in the CTS 2026 Program Book, which will go home with your oldest/only the week before the event. Well Wishes

Sponsorships
We invite you to support CTS 2026 through one of our sponsorship opportunities!
Our sponsors play an essential role in bringing this event to life and directly supporting the programs and experiences that make SPC such a special community. From premium visibility to recognition in our event materials, each sponsorship level offers meaningful ways to showcase your family or business. Explore the full sponsorship package through the link above and join us in creating an incredible evening for SPC!

Auction and Party Boards
We’d love your support! 💙 If you’re interested in donating an item or experience for the event, please reach out to Kelly Bontempo at [email protected].
Have an idea or want to brainstorm a fun party board? Connect with Amy Dolan at [email protected]—she’d love to hear from you!

SPC Winter Clubs
Discover our fun and creative after-school Clubs at SPC! These programs, designed by our staff, are separate from activities offered by outside vendors. Space is limited, so register early.
Registration opened on Tuesday, December 9 and will run through today, December 18. The Registration FACTS link will be shared on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 via School Messenger. Click here to read the club offerings and descriptions.

Spanish Club for Grades K-2nd
Tuesdays, January 13 – March 17
Please click here for the flyer with details, or visit https://thelanguageacademy-pr.com/spanish-clubs.

The Stage School Premier Program Grades PS-2nd
New at SPC this winter on Wednesdays January 7 – March 25
Please click here for all the details and registration link.

**Smiling Strings Acoustic/Classical Guitar Lessons**
Accepting Brand New Sign-ups For Winter 2026!
Grades 3-6 Tuesdays 3-4 PM (for brand new students)
Please see this flyer for details. For information, please contact Deborah Grimes: [email protected].

**Smiling Strings Violin Lessons**
Accepting Brand New Sign-ups For Winter 2026!
Grades K-6 Tuesdays 2-3 PM
Please see this flyer for details. For information, please contact Deborah Grimes: [email protected].

Holiday Grief Support

Winter Workshops for Kids

Save the Dates: SPC Parent-Child Events
Mark your calendars for our upcoming SPC Parent–Child Events. We hope you can join us!

Sweetheart Dance
Saturday, February 21| SPC in the Gym
Three time slots to choose from

4th–8th Grade Mother/Son Golf Outing
Saturday, March 21 | The Shack, Glenview
11:00am – 1:00pm

PS–3rd Grade Mother/Son Event
Saturday, April 25 | SPC in the Gym

More details and registration information will be shared in the New Year in the Thursday Mailing. We look forward to celebrating with you!

From the Parish

We have an active and vibrant parish and encourage everyone to read the weekly bulletins for Fr. James’ weekly letter and stay informed about all upcoming events and programs.

Please click here for the latest bulletin.
Please click here for Fr. James’ Weekly Letters

From the Community

Catholic High School Events

Other Community Events
2026 Edison Park Youth Indoor Soccer – PK(4) – 8th Grade Boys and Girls
Click here to download the flyer

December 11, 2025

Principal’s Message

Dear SPC Families,
As we enter more deeply into this beautiful season of Advent, our hearts are called to prepare, to hope, and to rejoice as the coming of our Savior draws near. In this spirit of anticipation and gratitude, I am thrilled to share some wonderful news that reflects the many blessings unfolding within our school community.

Congratulations, Ms. Verdun!
We are delighted to announce that our school has been awarded a generous grant from the North & Florence Stockton Charitable Foundation, an organization devoted to supporting youth in education. This blessing will provide our UGC music classroom with a variety of new xylophones and metallophones—resources that will enhance musical learning and creativity for years to come.

As Ms. Verdun continues her three-year training toward Orff-Schulwerk certification, these instruments will serve as a vital part of our daily music curriculum. The Orff-Schulwerk approach—described by the American Orff-Schulwerk Association as “a child-centered method that blends music, movement, drama, and speech into lessons that are similar to a child’s world of play”—beautifully aligns with our school’s commitment to joyful, hands-on learning.

We are truly grateful for this generous support of our music program and excited for the creativity, exploration, and musical growth it will inspire in our students during this Advent season and beyond.

I would also like to thank our staff, students, and parents for attending our grades 3-6 Vespers this week. The presentation was fresh, creative, and sent the perfect message of hope, peace, joy, and love (faith). Special thanks to our facilitators, Ms. Verdun, Mr. Boersma, and Mr. Johnson. Awesome work!

Looking Ahead

Saturday, Dec 13
- Spotlight Hoops – All Day (UGC Gym)
Sunday, Dec 14
- Family Mass – 10:30 AM (Grades 1 & 2) – Holy Family Church
Monday, December 15
- Student Holiday Spirit Week Dress PS-8 begins (See the schedule of events below.)
Tuesday, December 16
- No Mass
Wednesday, December 17
- Coffee with the Principal: Inclusion – 8:00–9:00 AM (EGC Art Room)
Thursday, December 18
- Christmas Concert PS–2 – 10:00–11:00 AM (doors open 9:45am)
Friday, December 19
- Mass – 10:00–11:00 AM
- 1:00 PM Dismissal Grades 1-8, 12:50 Preschool-KE (Whole day preschool), ½ day preschool am

Grades 3-8

12/19/25 schedule

Homeroom 8:00 – 8:09

1 8:12 -8:37 8:24

2 8:40 -9:05 8:52

3 9:08 – 9:33 9:20

Mass – 9:45 – 10:25

5 10:30 – 10:55 10:42

6 10:58 – 11:23 11:10

Lunch – 11:26 – 11:51 (no recess)

Parties – 11:54 – 12:50

Homeroom 12:53 – 1:00

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our mission and to the success of every student at SPC. Your work matters—and it is truly appreciated.

“inflammate omnia—“go, set the world on fire.”

James White
Principal

Celebrating the Spirit

NEW:
Our Celebrating the Spirit committee has been hard at work planning for another outstanding event!

Well Wishes Time Sensitive Due Thursday, December 18th
Dont’t miss out!! Please join us in celebrating the spirit and community of SPC through your well wishes!
Well Wishes are a great way for you to give shout-outs to your children, grandchildren, favorite athlete,
scout troop, artist, or a special faculty member or coach! Well Wishes will be published in the CTS 2026
Program Book, which will go home with your oldest/only the week before the event.

More From SPC!

Re-enrollment for 2026-2027
Re-enrollment for all current students is in full swing! You received an email last week with a link to complete the packet, along with more information. The Early Bird fee is $75 and runs until 12/19! The regular fee of $125/student begins December 20. All packets are due by January 26, as new students will be accepted on this day. We have significantly shortened the packet since the information is stored in PowerSchool. If nothing has changed, you are welcome to submit and be done. If any contact information, emergency contacts, address, phone number, etc, has changed from last year to this year or will change for next year, please select yes in the form. We will then reach out to you to complete the updated information. If the grade appears wrong for next year in the re-enrollment packet, or if you have any questions regarding enrollment or need help with your account, please email Meghan Waldeck ([email protected]).

Please scan the QR code or click here to RSVP.

Christmas Concert – Grades PS – 2nd
Thursday, December 18th • 10:00 AM • Upper Church
Doors open at 9:45 AM

Our students and teachers have been working hard preparing for this special event, and we are thrilled to welcome families to an in-person Christmas concert! In place of printed programs, a QR code will be shared at the show.

SPC Winter Clubs
Discover our fun and creative after-school Clubs at SPC! These programs, designed by our staff, are separate from activities offered by outside vendors. Space is limited, so register early.
Registration opens on Tuesday, December 9 and will run through December 18. The Registration FACTS link will be shared on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 via School Messenger. Click here to read the club offerings and descriptions.

Spanish Club for Grades K-2nd
Tuesdays, January 13 – March 17
Please click here for the flyer with details, or visit https://thelanguageacademy-pr.com/spanish-clubs.

The Stage School Premier Program Grades PS-2nd
New at SPC this winter on Wednesdays January 7 – March 25
Please click here for all the details and registration link.

Holiday Grief Support

Winter Workshops for Kids

Dear Parents and Families,
Thank you for once again exceeding our expectations and helping to make our Book Fair an outstanding success! We appreciate your efforts to support our book fair and can’t wait to see how many wishes can be granted with your fundraising efforts. And a huge thanks to all of our amazing volunteers from our school community who make this possible! **Please click here for the full letter from Mrs. Sue Dohr**.

Christmas Faculty Gift Fund – Deadline Friday, December 12th

With the Christmas right around the corner, the Home & School Association (HSA) will once again host the SPC Faculty Christmas Gift Fund. This is a school-wide collection of monetary gift donations which is then equitably divided among all SPC full and part-time faculty, administration, and support staff as a demonstration of our appreciation during this holiday season.

In previous years, families have donated $40-$50 per student (an average of $6-$10 per faculty or staff member with whom your child interacts depending on grade level), however, the FACTS form allows for you to contribute any amount with which you are comfortable. This donation is in lieu of individual gifts.

Donations can be made by clicking this link. The final date to donate is Friday, December 12th.
Thank you in advance for your generosity!
Home & School Association

TRIP/Raise Right – Deadline Friday, December 12th Noon
Hello Families!
Thank you to everyone who has been participating in TRIP/Raise Right. Friday, December 12th at noon will be the deadline to put in your order for physical cards for Christmas. This will allow time for shipping and for me to deliver the cards to you before break starts.

If you are interested in learning more about TRIP/Raise Right, please visit this link.
Please contact me with any questions: [email protected]|
Thank you!
Carrie Jackiewicz

Save the Dates: SPC Parent-Child Events
Mark your calendars for our upcoming SPC Parent–Child Events. We hope you can join us!

Sweetheart Dance
Saturday, February 21| SPC in the Gym
Three time slots to choose from

4th–8th Grade Mother/Son Golf Outing
Saturday, March 21 | The Shack, Glenview
11:00am – 1:00pm

PS–3rd Grade Mother/Son Event
Saturday, April 25 | SPC in the Gym

More details and registration information will be shared in the New Year in the Thursday Mailing. We look forward to celebrating with you!

From the Parish

We have an active and vibrant parish and encourage everyone to read the weekly bulletins for Fr. James’ weekly letter and stay informed about all upcoming events and programs.

Please click here for the latest bulletin.
Please click here for Fr. James’ Weekly Letters

SPC Women’s Club

Mingle & Jingle Christmas Social – This Saturday, December 13th

From the Community

Catholic High School Events

Other Community Events
2026 Edison Park Youth Indoor Soccer – PK(4) – 8th Grade Boys and Girls
Click here to download the flyer

December 4, 2025

Principal’s Message

Dear SPC Families,

Dear SPC Families,
As we enter the Second Week of Advent, our hearts turn with joyful anticipation toward the coming of our Savior. This sacred season invites us to pause, prepare, and celebrate the hope and promise that the birth of Christ brings to our community and our world.

In the days ahead, SPC will be bustling with several special events and traditions that help us journey faithfully toward Christmas. From moments of prayer and reflection to joyful gatherings with our students, we look forward to sharing this beautiful season with you.

As we approach Christmas Vacation, please be sure to review the calendar updates and note any changes to our regular routines listed below. Your attention to these details helps ensure a smooth and grace-filled end to our Advent season together.

Friday, Dec 5
- Re-enrollment begins
- Hearing & Vision Screening
- Apple Distinguished school visit and tour 10:30-11:30
Monday, Dec 8
- All School Mass – Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception – 10:00–11:00 AM
- Book Fair
Tuesday, Dec 9
- Young Men’s Club – 8:15 AM (Principal’s Office)
- Book Fair final day
Wednesday, Dec 10
- Prospective Family Tours – 9:00–10:00 AM (EGC Art Room & Building Tour)
- Grades 3–6 Advent Vespers, Holy Family Chapel – 6:30–7:30 PM
- Hearing & Vision Screening (Continued)
Friday, Dec 12
- H&S Out of Uniform Day
Saturday, Dec 13
- Spotlight Hoops – All Day (UGC Gym)
Sunday, Dec 14
- Family Mass – 10:30 AM (Grades 1 & 2) – Holy Family Church

Planning Ahead

Tuesday, Dec 16
- No Mass
Wednesday, Dec 17
- Coffee with the Principal: Inclusion – 8:00–9:00 AM (EGC Art Room)
Thursday, Dec 18
- Christmas Concert PS–2 Main Church – 10:00–11:00 AM
- No EDP
Friday, Dec 19
- Mass – 9:45–10:45 AM
- 1:00 PM Dismissal
- No EDP
Dec 22-Jan 6
- Christmas Break for students
January 5, 2026
- Faculty PD Day-No School

Notes

Recess will not take place on days of inclement weather and when the temperatures falls below 15 degrees w/windchill
Advent Vespers Grade 3-6 & PS-Grade 2 Christmas Program will be livestreamed. https://www.youtube.com/c/StPauloftheCrossChurch

Enjoy your weekend!

James White
Principal

Celebrating the Spirit

NEW:
Our Celebrating the Spirit committee has been hard at work planning for another outstanding event!

More From SPC!

2026-2027 applications are in full swing and are now accepting applications from all families. We have already received close to 100 new student applications for our early childhood program next year; another sign that SPC is the Place to Be! If you are a current family with a new student next year and have not applied yet, please do so right away and email Meghan Waldeck at [email protected].

In more exciting news, as we gear up for next year, re-enrollment for all current students begins tomorrow, December 5. You will receive an email with a link to complete the packet, along with more information. Early bird fee is $75 and runs from 12/5-12/19! Regular fee of $125/student begins December 20. All packets are due by January 26, as new students will be accepted on this day. We have significantly shortened the packet since the information is stored in PowerSchool. If nothing has changed, you are welcome to submit and be done. If any contact information, emergency contacts, address, phone number, etc, has changed from last year to this year or will change for next year, please select yes in the form. We will then reach out to you to complete the updated information. If the grade appears wrong for next year in the re-enrollment packet, or if you have any questions regarding enrollment or need help with your account, please email Meghan Waldeck ([email protected]).

Students in Grades 3-6 Advent Program

SPC Winter Clubs
Discover our fun and creative after-school Clubs at SPC! These programs, designed by our staff, are separate from activities offered by outside vendors. Space is limited, so register early.
Registration opens on Tuesday, December 9 and will run through December 18. The Registration FACTS link will be shared on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 via School Messenger. Click here to read the club offerings and descriptions.

The Stage School Premier Program Grades PS-2nd
New at SPC this winter on Wednesdays January 7 – March 25
Please click here for all the details and registration link.

Christmas Faculty Gift Fund

Donations can be made by clicking this link. The final date to donate is Friday, December 12th.
Thank you in advance for your generosity!
Home & School Association

**Save these dates for the Book Fair:**
**Wednesday, December 3rd through Tuesday, December 9th.**

Volunteers: We’d love to have your help. Thanks!
Click here to sign up for a volunteer slot or two!
Feel free to browse our webpage for some additional information…
St. Paul of the Cross Book Fair Homepage
Please click here to download the flyer with all of the details and links.

TRIP/Raise Right
Hello Families!
Thank you to everyone who has been participating in TRIP/Raise Right. Friday, December 12th at noon will be the deadline to put in your order for physical cards for Christmas. This will allow time for shipping and for me to deliver the cards to you before break starts.

If you are interested in learning more about TRIP/Raise Right, please visit this link.
Please contact me with any questions: [email protected]|
Thank you!
Carrie Jackiewicz

From the Parish

We have an active and vibrant parish and encourage everyone to read the weekly bulletins for Fr. James’ weekly letter and stay informed about all upcoming events and programs.

Please click here for the latest bulletin.
Please click here for Fr. James’ Weekly Letters

As we enter this season of gratitude and giving, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible ways the SPC Women’s Club steps up to support those in need. The St. Nicholas Party is one of our most cherished annual traditions, and we’re looking forward to another year of giving back.

SPC Women’s Club

We know this time of year brings many requests for your time and support. If you have any bandwidth to spare, we would deeply appreciate your help making this event a success. Please either consider attending with your family and if you have the extra time or talents to give this season you’ll find links to sign up for adult volunteer shifts as well as student volunteer opportunities below.

Thank you, as always, for your generosity, your spirit, and your commitment to our St. Paul community. We can’t wait to celebrate together.

Adult Volunteer Sign Up Genius:

Student Volunteer Sign Up Genius:

SPC Women’s Club Mingle & Jingle Christmas Social – Saturday, December 13th