January 29, 2026

Principal’s Message

Dear Saint Paul of the Cross Families,

As always, I am grateful for the spirit of faith, generosity, and community that defines Saint Paul of the Cross School. As we look ahead to our annual Celebrating the Spirit event, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you in advance to all who will be attending, supporting, and contributing in any way. This special evening allows us to celebrate our many school successes and the incredible families who make SPC such a vibrant community, while also raising funds for our annual teacher bonuses. We are proud to share that 100% of the funds raised directly support teacher bonuses awarded each October. Your generosity is a powerful affirmation of our gratitude for the dedication, faith, and excellence our teachers bring to your children each day.

Please join me in offering a special blessing to our Grade 8 students who will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation next Saturday. May the Holy Spirit guide them as they continue to grow in faith, leadership, and service, and may they always know how deeply they are supported by their SPC community.

We also wish our preschool teachers safe travels and an enlightening experience as they attend the Alliance for Early Childhood Preschool–Kindergarten Summit next Thursday at the Chicago Botanic Garden. In addition, we are excited to host well-known author and illustrator Mac Barnett & Carson Ellis for our Grade 1–5 students on Wednesday, February 4th. Please note that Friday, February 6th will be an asynchronous learning day as our teachers complete their final professional development obligation with the Archdiocese of Chicago. We hope you enjoy the extended weekend, including our scheduled day off on Monday, February 9th. Please be safe, stay warm, and know how thankful we are for your continued partnership and support.

Next Week

  • Monday February 2:
    • Home & School Out of Uniform
  • Tuesday, February 3:
    • All School Mass Mass 9:45
  • Wednesday, February 4:
    • Author and illustrator Mac Barnett & Carson Ellis for our Grade 1–5 students
  • Thursday, February 5:
    • Spirit wear day
  • Friday, February 6:
    • Asynchronous Learning Day for students-Teacher faith development PD
  • Saturday, February 7:
    • Confirmation 10:00am
  • Monday, Feb 9-NO SCHOOL

Up and Coming

Roundball – March 1st – March 7th
See details below.

Thank you for the many daily sacrifices you make to support Catholic education and for entrusting us with the care and formation of your children. We are grateful for each and every SPC family.
James White M.Ed.


Celebrating the Spirit

We are so excited! Après SP SKI is tomorrow night, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you all! What an amazing turnout!

Those attending Celebrating the Spirit automatically receive a welcome message about online bidding when our online bidding opens. Please DO NOT register for online bidding twice; if you have already received the welcome message text and/or email, you are already registered for online bidding. The Party Boards will be at CTS Friday night, and attendees will have the opportunity to sign up upon arrival.

For those of you who are unable to join us tomorrow night but still want to be a part of our online silent auction, click on the provided link below to automatically browse the auction packages.

Let the Bidding Begin! https://spcsch2026.ggo.bid

Please contact us with any questions—Caitlin Brown at [email protected], Kelly Bontempo at [email protected], or Mary Ploen at [email protected].

Celebrating the Spirit Aprés SP SKI FAQ
Take a moment to read through our FAQ. It has everything you’ll want to know for a fantastic evening tomorrow night!!!! We can’t wait to see everyone!!!!

Apres SP Ski Beanies!

Après SP Ski beanies are perfect for ski season and winter days! Grab yours quick-ski because quantities are limited, and once they’re gone, they’re snow more! Click here to purchase your beanies!

Baby Bottle Project

I first would like to thank all of you for your support and help with the baby bottle project. We had another very successful year. The final total for the baby bottle collection for The Women’s Center is $25,338.18.  We are so very blessed. You will be receiving a letter from The Women’s Center and I will be putting up posters around the school to show the amazing total St. Paul of the Cross collected.

Mary Ryan-Smith and The Respect Life Committee


Award-winning author Mac Barnett and illustrator Carson Ellis will be visiting our school on Wednesday, February 4 to speak with some of our students and promote their newest book, Rumpelstiltskin.

Mac Barnett and Carson Ellis are celebrated for many beloved and award-winning books, including Extra Yarn (Caldecott Honor), Sam & Dave Dig a Hole (Caldecott Honor), The Wolf, the Duck, and the Mouse, and Chloe and the Lion. Their work is known for its creativity, humor, and imaginative storytelling.

We are thrilled to welcome them and look forward to this special opportunity for our students to engage with two outstanding creators.

Click here to pre-order the book! – Please note the deadline for pre-order is February 1st.


It’s time to sign up for Roundball!
Calling all 6th to 8th Grade SPC Students, High School Alums, and Roundball Fans and Sponsors!
It is time to sign up for Roundball 2026. Spread the word to friends and family as the entire SPC community comes together for this exciting, week-long event, March 1st – March 7th.

The SPC Roundball Tournament is open to all sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students in good academic and behavioral standing. An SPC tradition since 2013, the continued success of Roundball is made possible through the collaboration of the school, the Alumni Association, the Roundball Committee, and the St. Paul of the Cross Men’s Club.

Roundball features two basketball tournaments for sixth, seventh, and eighth grade boys and girls. High school aged SPC alums proudly return to their alma mater to coach the teams, bringing energy, leadership, and friendly competition. The fun continues with the Future Stars of Roundball game for fifth grade basketball players.

With SPC Men’s Club members serving as announcers and professional referees officiating each game, awards recognize champions, school spirit, leadership, and integrity. From start to finish, Roundball brings together the entire SPC community, including students, alumni, and families, to celebrate teamwork and tradition.
Student Player Registration Form
High School Alum Coaches Form
Sponsorship Form



Tickets can be purchased by clicking here.

Interested in helping to ensure the event runs smoothly?  Sign up to volunteer here!

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 – Look for the Registration in next week’s Thursday Mailing!
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!


SPC Yearbooks
The deadline to order the 2025-2026 yearbook is Thursday, April 2nd!
Please click here for details and information.


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


2026  Park Ridge Baseball Softball Registration
Please click here to download the details and registration link.

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

January 22, 2026

Principal’s Message

Dear SPC Families,

Dear SPC Families,
Congratulations to all of our students who received the Sacrament of Reconciliation this past week. We are so proud of them and continue to hold them in our prayers. May the love and mercy of Christ fill their hearts and guide them each day.

2026–2027 School Year Calendar Update
Our draft calendar for the 2026–2027 school year has been finalized and submitted to the Archdiocese of Chicago for approval. Once approved, we will share the calendar with all families in a separate communication in the coming weeks.

As a new principal within the Archdiocese, I have gained a deep appreciation for the many parameters that must be considered when building a school calendar. Over the past several weeks, our administrative team has worked diligently to ensure compliance with Archdiocesan requirements while also supporting our SPC community. The proposed calendar includes:

  • 176 instructional days, as prescribed by the Archdiocese
  • Alignment with local school districts
  • Required professional development days and holidays
  • A full week off for Thanksgiving and two weeks for Christmas
  • A proposed first day of school on August 24, 2026
  • A projected last day of school on June 4, 2027

We will wait for final approval before publication. Stay tuned for updates.

Looking Ahead: Program Enhancements Beginning Fall 2026
Are you looking for additional rigor and focused instructional time? We are excited to share several enhancements planned for fall 2026:

  • New accelerated English courses for grades 6, 7, and 8
  • Accelerated mathematics for grade 5 (previously shared)
  • STEM programming expanded to include Preschool as a weekly elective
  • i-Ready pathway expectations completed during the school day under teacher supervision, rather than as take-home assignments (previously shared)
  • Elimination of Archdiocesan PD days with asynchronous learning — all PD days will now be days off for students
  • Revised Parent & Student Handbook, coming soon

All newly implemented programs for fall 2026 will be shared in one comprehensive publication this summer for your review.

Important School Closure Reminder
I want to be sure all families have seen this information, and I sincerely appreciate your understanding and support.
Due to inclement weather conditions, Saint Paul of the Cross School will be closed from Friday, January 23 through Sunday, January 25. School will reopen on Monday, January 26. The campus will be completely closed during this time.
As a result:

  • All school activities, athletic games, Bitty Basketball, hot lunch, the Home & School meeting, and the Home & School dress-down day will be rescheduled
  • The Catholic Schools Week Open House has been cancelled
  • Students will be reminded prior to dismissal today to bring home any materials or personal items they may need before returning on Monday

This decision was made with the safety and well-being of our entire SPC community as our top priority. Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and continued partnership.

Next Week

  • Monday – Friday, January 26-30
    • Catholic Schools Week! – Please see flyer below
  • Monday, January 26:
    • SOS Grade 8
  • Tuesday, January 27:
    • All School Mass 9:45
    • School Board Meeting Open Session 7:30 pm Duffin Hall
  • Friday, January 30:
    • Celebrating the Spirit 7:00 pm Park Ridge Country Club

Up and Coming

Celebrating the Spirit – January 30
We hope you’ll join us for this special evening next Friday! Additional details are included below.

Roundball – March 1st – March 7th
See details below.

Thank you for the many daily sacrifices you make to support Catholic education and for entrusting us with the care and formation of your children. We are grateful for each and every SPC family.

Happy Catholic Schools Week,
James White M.Ed.


Celebrating the Spirit

Celebrating the Spirit Aprés SP SKI FAQ
Take a moment to read through our FAQ. It has everything you’ll want to know for a fantastic evening!
Reserve Your Tickets!
Celebrating the Spirit is just one week away! Please visit the CTS website here to purchase your tickets.

Apres SP Ski Beanies!

Après SP Ski beanies are perfect for ski season and winter days! Grab yours quick-ski because quantities are limited, and once they’re gone, they’re snow more! Click here to purchase your beanies!

Award-winning author Mac Barnett and illustrator Carson Ellis will be visiting our school on Wednesday, February 4 to speak with some of our students and promote their newest book, Rumpelstiltskin.

Mac Barnett and Carson Ellis are celebrated for many beloved and award-winning books, including Extra Yarn (Caldecott Honor), Sam & Dave Dig a Hole (Caldecott Honor), The Wolf, the Duck, and the Mouse, and Chloe and the Lion. Their work is known for its creativity, humor, and imaginative storytelling.

We are thrilled to welcome them and look forward to this special opportunity for our students to engage with two outstanding creators.

Click here to pre-order the book! – Please note the deadline for pre-order is February 1st.


It’s time to sign up for Roundball!
Calling all 6th to 8th Grade SPC Students, High School Alums, and Roundball Fans and Sponsors!
It is time to sign up for Roundball 2026. Spread the word to friends and family as the entire SPC community comes together for this exciting, week-long event, March 1st – March 7th.

The SPC Roundball Tournament is open to all sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students in good academic and behavioral standing. An SPC tradition since 2013, the continued success of Roundball is made possible through the collaboration of the school, the Alumni Association, the Roundball Committee, and the St. Paul of the Cross Men’s Club.

Roundball features two basketball tournaments for sixth, seventh, and eighth grade boys and girls. High school aged SPC alums proudly return to their alma mater to coach the teams, bringing energy, leadership, and friendly competition. The fun continues with the Future Stars of Roundball game for fifth grade basketball players.

With SPC Men’s Club members serving as announcers and professional referees officiating each game, awards recognize champions, school spirit, leadership, and integrity. From start to finish, Roundball brings together the entire SPC community, including students, alumni, and families, to celebrate teamwork and tradition.
Student Player Registration Form
High School Alum Coaches Form
Sponsorship Form



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 – Look for the Registration in next week’s Thursday Mailing!
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!


SPC Yearbooks
The deadline to order the 2025-2026 yearbook is Thursday, April 2nd!
Please click here for details and information.


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


2026  Park Ridge Baseball Softball Registration
Please click here to download the details and registration link.

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

January 15, 2026

Principal’s Message

Dear SPC Families,

As we move through the heart of January, I want to thank you for your continued partnership and support of St. Paul of the Cross Catholic School. Please remember that there will be no school on Monday, January 19, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. We hope you enjoy a restful and meaningful long weekend with your family.

You are warmly invited to join us for our Family Mass this Sunday, January 18, at 10:30 a.m. in the Holy Family Chapel, graciously facilitated by our 3rd and 4th-grade students. We look forward to gathering together in prayer as a school community.

Thank you in advance to all the volunteers working diligently behind the scenes to make this year’s Celebrating the Spirit Event on January 30 a wonderful success. Your time, talent, and generosity truly reflect the spirit of SPC.

This coming week, students will also complete their winter iReady testing. We appreciate your support in ensuring students are well-rested and ready to do their best.

Finally, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to each of you for the daily sacrifices you make to provide your children with a faith-filled SPC education. Your commitment to our mission does not go unnoticed and is deeply appreciated.

Yours in Faith & Education,

Jim White, M.Ed.

iReady Winter 2026 Testing:

  • Dates: January  14, 2026, Mathematics
  • Dates: January 21, 2026, English/Language Arts
  • Testing window closes January 27, 2026
  • No retest opportunities unless approved by the principal or assistant principal for absence or special circumstances.
  • iReady test results are one factor in determining student placement in advanced courses. The results also identify students who may need extra help and support.

i-Ready Assessment: Student Reminders

  • Make sure your iPad is fully charged daily.
  • Do your best and take the assessment seriously—i-Ready helps teachers understand your strengths and areas for growth.
  • Get a good night’s sleep and eat breakfast before testing days.
  • Take your time and read each question carefully before answering.
  • Use scratch paper when allowed, especially for math questions.
  • Answer every question to the best of your ability—do not rush to finish.
  • If you are unsure of an answer, try your best and move on.
  • Stay focused and work quietly so everyone can do their best.
  • Raise your hand if you have a technical issue or need assistance—teachers are there to help.
  • Remember that this is not a graded test; it is a tool to support your learning and growth.
  • Be proud of your effort—your results help guide instruction and support throughout the year.

Next Week

  • Tuesday, January 20:
    • SOS Grade 7
    • 9:45am All School Mass
    • 2:00 Dismissal Teacher PD
  • Thursday, January 22:
    • Grade 8 Graduation Pictures
  • Friday, January 23:
    • Home & School Meeting 8:00am Holy Family Chapel

Up and Coming

Celebrating the Spirit – January 30
We hope you’ll join us for this special evening in three weeks! Additional details are included below. Reminder that ticket prices go up after Sunday, January 18th!

Roundball – March 1st – March 7th
See details below.


Celebrating the Spirit

Celebrating the Spirit Aprés SP SKI FAQ
Take a moment to read through our FAQ. It has everything you’ll want to know for a fantastic evening!
Reserve Your Tickets!
Celebrating the Spirit is just two weeks away! Please visit the CTS website here to purchase your tickets. Remember, prices go up after this Sunday, January 18th!

Sponsorships -There is Still Time!
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!

Apres SP Ski Beanies!

Après SP Ski beanies are perfect for ski season and winter days! Grab yours quick-ski because quantities are limited, and once they’re gone, they’re snow more! Click here to purchase your beanies!

Award-winning author Mac Barnett and illustrator Carson Ellis will be visiting our school on Wednesday, February 4 to speak with some of our students and promote their newest book, Rumpelstiltskin.

Mac Barnett and Carson Ellis are celebrated for many beloved and award-winning books, including Extra Yarn (Caldecott Honor), Sam & Dave Dig a Hole (Caldecott Honor), The Wolf, the Duck, and the Mouse, and Chloe and the Lion. Their work is known for its creativity, humor, and imaginative storytelling.

We are thrilled to welcome them and look forward to this special opportunity for our students to engage with two outstanding creators.

Click here to pre-order the book! – Please note the deadline for pre-order is February 1st.


It’s time to sign up for Roundball!
Calling all 6th to 8th Grade SPC Students, High School Alums, and Roundball Fans and Sponsors!
It is time to sign up for Roundball 2026. Spread the word to friends and family as the entire SPC community comes together for this exciting, week-long event, March 1st – March 7th.

The SPC Roundball Tournament is open to all sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students in good academic and behavioral standing. An SPC tradition since 2013, the continued success of Roundball is made possible through the collaboration of the school, the Alumni Association, the Roundball Committee, and the St. Paul of the Cross Men’s Club.

Roundball features two basketball tournaments for sixth, seventh, and eighth grade boys and girls. High school aged SPC alums proudly return to their alma mater to coach the teams, bringing energy, leadership, and friendly competition. The fun continues with the Future Stars of Roundball game for fifth grade basketball players.

With SPC Men’s Club members serving as announcers and professional referees officiating each game, awards recognize champions, school spirit, leadership, and integrity. From start to finish, Roundball brings together the entire SPC community, including students, alumni, and families, to celebrate teamwork and tradition.

Sponsorship Form
Student Player Registration Form
High School Alum Coaches Form
Sponsorship Form


Home and School Meetings
Our next meeting will take place, Friday, January 23, at 8am in the Holy Family Chapel. If you’d like to join us virtually, please use this link:

Time: Jan 23, 2026 08:00 AM Central Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/84150983864?pwd=CfiPSFfIhB18w8Gy90FbnKNuaoQjQq.1

Meeting ID: 841 5098 3864
Passcode: mnZ73i

Join instructions
https://us05web.zoom.us/meetings/84150983864/invitations?signature=n3zvc0wHeCcve7chEHu5xuJoKHB9e2ZQfia23YypAy0


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!


Thank you and Happy New Year from the SPC Cub and Boy Scouts!
Thank You and Update from the Scouts


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


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

January 8, 2026

Principal’s Message

Dear SPC Families,
As we begin this new year together, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for the many generous gifts—both personal and in support of our school—that were shared during the Christmas season. A sincere thank you to our Home & School Organization for their continued commitment to our teachers and students through sponsored lunches, teacher retention bonuses, student activities, fundraising efforts, and so much more. I would also like to offer a special note of appreciation to those families and supporters who made especially generous donations as 2025 came to a close. Your kindness, generosity, and belief in SPC far exceed expectations and make a meaningful difference in our community.

In the coming months, we will be sharing the 2026–2027 tuition schedule, an updated school handbook, and next year’s school calendar. We are also proud to give a quick shout-out to our STEM Notre Dame Fellows, who are in their second year of the STEM program and will be traveling to Notre Dame’s campus next week for their mid-year symposium. We are grateful to these teachers for sharing their time, talent, and dedication as they continue to strengthen curriculum and instruction at SPC.

iReady Winter 2026 Testing:

  • Dates: January  14, 2026, Mathematics
  • Dates: January 21, 2026, English/Language Arts
  • Testing window closes January 27, 2026
  • No retest opportunities unless approved by the principal or assistant principal for absence or special circumstances.
  • iReady test results are one factor in determining student placement in advanced courses. The results also identify students who may need extra help and support.

i-Ready Assessment: Student Reminders

  • Make sure your iPad is fully charged daily.
  • Do your best and take the assessment seriously—i-Ready helps teachers understand your strengths and areas for growth.
  • Get a good night’s sleep and eat breakfast before testing days.
  • Take your time and read each question carefully before answering.
  • Use scratch paper when allowed, especially for math questions.
  • Answer every question to the best of your ability—do not rush to finish.
  • If you are unsure of an answer, try your best and move on.
  • Stay focused and work quietly so everyone can do their best.
  • Raise your hand if you have a technical issue or need assistance—teachers are there to help.
  • Remember that this is not a graded test; it is a tool to support your learning and growth.
  • Be proud of your effort—your results help guide instruction and support throughout the year.

Advanced Mathematics (Grades 5–8) – Beginning Fall 2026
Beginning in Fall 2026, SPC will offer an Advanced Mathematics pathway for students in Grades 5–8 who demonstrate mastery beyond grade-level expectations. This program is the result of a comprehensive review by the administrative team and mathematics faculty of curriculum, assessment data, and instructional resources to better support both enrichment and intervention in mathematics.

Students accepted into the Advanced Mathematics program may remain through Grade 8 provided they maintain a minimum “B” average in mathematics and continue to meet program expectations. Placement is based on iReady and CoGat results.

SPC will continue to provide mathematics support through Tier 1–3 intervention strategies, including in-class support from inclusion teachers and targeted small-group or individual instruction. IXL and individualized assignments generated from i-Ready data will supplement instruction for students performing both below and above grade-level expectations.

Note: Beginning Fall 2026, i-Ready work will be completed during the school day under teacher supervision. Academic support and enrichment will be embedded into the school schedule and will not be assigned as weekly homework.

(New) 5TH Grade Advanced Math Qualifications
Grade 5 advanced math students study the sixth-grade math curriculum. The concepts studied are: positive and negative numbers and the number line, multiplying and dividing decimals and fractions, ratio, rates and unit rates, percents, algebraic expressions, algebraic equations and inequalities, the coordinate plane, areas of polygons, circumference and area of a circle, surface area and volume of solids, introduction to statistics, and measures of central tendency. Students in this class learn math at a faster pace and on a deeper level.

Prequalification Requirement for 5th Grade Advanced Math
If a student receives a 95th percentile or above on the Fall or Winter iReady test, the student isinvited to qualify for the 5th-grade advanced math class. That is, the student will then take the CoGAT Test and must score 123 or above.

Enrollment in 5th Grade Advanced Math
In order to enroll in 5th Grade Advanced Math, the following requirements must be satisfied. No exceptions will be made.

  • iREADY percentile of 95 or above (Fall 2025 and winter 2026 test results in grade 4 will be used for student selection.)
    AND
  • CoGat Quantitative and Composite Score of 123

(This test consists of nine 10-minute tests covering verbal, quantitative, and non-verbal skills. The questions show how well students use their reasoning skills to solve problems they have not been taught directly.  This test will be given in March.)

(New) Preschool and Kindergarten Screeners: Winter 2026
SPC utilizes social, academic, and emotional screening surveys to support student growth and successful grade transitions. During January, all Preschool and Kindergarten teachers will complete a student screener and submit it to the administrative team. These screeners help us better understand each child’s individual needs as students transition from preschool to kindergarten and from kindergarten to first grade.

The screeners provide valuable insight into a student’s readiness for grade advancement and help identify any supports or accommodations that may be needed for continued success. They also allow us to evaluate a student’s development in relation to grade-level peers and determine whether the student can successfully function in first grade without the support of a full-time instructional aide.

(New) Preschool STEM: Fall 2026
SPC initiates STEM teaching and learning in PS-8th grade. SPC will be adding STEM to our preschool-aged elective program. All preschool-aged students will participate in a STEM program as part of their weekly curriculum.

For the Week:

  • Friday, January 9
    • Grades 4 & 5 Field Trip: Pickwick Theatre
    • Spirit Wear: Blue & Gold to support our athletes participating in this weekend’s basketball final
  • Monday, January 12
    • 6th-grade SOS presentation (social and emotional learning
  • Tuesday, January 13
    • Mass 9:45am
    • 2:00 Dismissal-Teacher PD
  • Wednesday, January 14
    • Prospective Family Tour 9:00 EGC Art Room
    • iReady Math exam
  • Thursday, January 15
    • ND Fellows Training
  • Friday, January 16
    • ND Fellows Training
    • Home & School out of uniform day
  • Sunday, January 18
    • Family Mass Grades 3 & 4 10:30 am Holy Family Chapel
  • Monday, January 19
    • MLK Day-NO SCHOOL

Up and Coming

Celebrating the Spirit – January 30
We hope you’ll join us for this special evening in three weeks! 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.

James White
Principal


Celebrating the Spirit

Time to Reserve Your Tickets!
Celebrating the Spirit is just three weeks away! Please visit the CTS website here to purchase your tickets.

Sponsorships -There is Still Time!
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!

Apres SP Ski Beanies!

Après SP Ski beanies are perfect for ski season and winter days! Grab yours quick-ski because quantities are limited, and once they’re gone, they’re snow more! Click here to purchase your beanies!

We are proud to continue the tradition of the St. Paul of the Cross School Legacy Award, an annual honor established last year to recognize a current or former member of our community who has made a lasting, positive impact on SPC. This award celebrates individuals whose contributions, accomplishments, affiliations, and careers reflect and uphold the mission and values of St. Paul of the Cross School.

The SPC Legacy Award will be presented at Celebrating the Spirit on January 30, 2026.

Who Is Eligible?
Any current or former member of the St. Paul of the Cross School community.

Who Can Nominate?
Any past or present member of the SPC community.

Nomination Deadline:
January 12, 2026

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, please submit your nomination.

Thank you for helping us celebrate the people who continue to inspire our community!
SPC Legacy Award Nomination Form​​​​​​​


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].

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.

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.


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!


Thank you and Happy New Year from the SPC Cub and Boy Scouts!
Thank You and Update from the Scouts


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


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