St. Joseph School - Class of 2010 - 100 Years!

Composite Graduation Picture is Ready for Pick-up

2010-06-29T06:58:00.003-05:00

For those of you that ordered the composite graduation picture, it is now ready for pick-up at the School Office. Unfortunately an error with the proofs by the photographer caused this delay.

Please call the school and check the summer office hours so that someone is available when you arrive.

DINNER-DANCE PICTURE UPDATE
The pictures are being printed this week and will be distributed as soon as possible.

FINAL REMINDER: Dinner Dance Expense Reimbursement

2010-06-23T09:49:00.002-05:00

If you were on the 8th Grade Dinner Dance Committee and have any outstanding expenses, you must submit them to Maribeth Ruf no later than June 30 in order to be reimbursed.

Should you need a reimbursement form, please contact Maribeth at: maribeth.reilly@gmail.com

Ideally all receipts should be submitted electronically (via e-mail) but if you are unable to do so, please contact Maribeth.

Thank you.

White Sox Game Pick Up - Update

2010-06-03T22:15:00.002-05:00

The bus should be pulling into St. Joe's close to the scheduled 10:30 p.m. pick up time (maybe a few minutes later). The traffic report had them near Cicero about 10 minutes ago, with little or no traffic on the expressway.

Great America Update - On time for a 7:30 p.m. pickup!

2010-05-27T19:13:00.003-05:00

The group had a great time today and based on traffic, will be arriving back at St. Joe's tonight at 7:30 p.m. as scheduled.

After Party at the Roth's - Friday May 28

2010-05-25T23:45:00.001-05:00

After-Party at the Roths!

Keep the party going! Stop by after the Graduation Dinner-Dance on Friday, May 28 for late-night fun.

Adult beverages, sodas and snacks will be served.

The Roth Home
4904 Highland Avenue (just south of school)
10:30 pm

Please RSVP to Kelly at kroth@transunion.com so we can get a headcount. We hope you can join us!

Picnic Info - May 26 @ Gilbert Park

2010-05-25T15:38:00.002-05:00

The following message is from Mike Ferconio:

Parents,

There seems to be a bit of confusion about tomorrow. As you might have heard from your 8th-grade son/daughter, I am assisting my son Frankie throw a "old fashioned picnic" at Gilbert Park for the entire 8th grade tomorrow. I reserved the pavilion at Gilbert Park from 1:00 till 5:00 for the kids to hang out. Please know that this is not a school-sponsored event--just something for the kids to do while most other kids are still in school.

I really appreciate the offers to bring stuff. However, the plan is to cook some hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken breasts (which I already bought at Costco) and throw them in a large tin foil trays for the kids to pick on while they hang out at the park. There will also be plenty of chips, cookies, etc. Hopefully, our HS bound kinds won't eat too much junk food.

My role is to make sure there is "appropriate behavior" and the boys don't get too rough with each other. I will stay there till the last person is picked up, even if some stick around after 5:00 to watch the baseball game, etc. Again, the plan is for the kids to spend some time hanging out together before the go different directions.

Please pass this on as I don't have most of the email addresses.

My cell is 630-640-4600 should you need to reach me.

Mike Ferconio

8th Grade Dinner Dance - Dress Info

2010-05-24T21:21:00.002-05:00

Many of you have inquired as to the dress code for the dinner dance this Friday. As you've heard many times throughout the year, this can best be answered based on past history.

STUDENTS
--Most, if not all of the girls wear dresses.
--Boys primarily wear khaki's or other dress pants with nice polo's or button down shirts. (Suits are not worn).

ADULTS
Business casual is the typical look for the men and women.
--For women, dresses, skirts or dress pants.
--For men, khaki's or other dress pants. Suits and ties are not required.

Remember the School Hall can/will get hot so plan your dress around this.

Great America - Thursday May 27 - Water Park is Closed!

2010-05-24T13:26:00.002-05:00

For those students and chaperones attending the Great America outing on Thursday, please be advised that the Hurricane Harbor water park will be closed. (The water park does not open for the season until Saturday.)

All other rides and attractions will be open, weather permitting!

Cap and Gown Mass - Tuesday May 25

2010-05-23T20:21:00.002-05:00

The 8th Grader's Cap and Gown Mass is Tuesday May 25 @ 8:15 a.m. This is a celebration of the entire school for the graduates and it is a very joyous event. All are welcomed to attend.

A reminder that the graduates are to be in dress clothes and must bring their caps and gowns to school that day.

REMINDER - White Sox Reply Needed

2010-05-23T19:05:00.002-05:00

Please remember to e-mail Leticia Pedraza @ lpedraza@comcast.net or phone her if you and/or your child are planning on attending the White Sox game on June 3. Responses are need ASAP.

The number of attendees will determine the cost of the bus transportation.

Thank you for your help!

Need a Response - White Sox Outing

2010-05-21T16:24:00.002-05:00

Another 8th grade graduation tradition is a parent-sponsored outing to a White Sox home game. The date for this year's event is Thursday June 3, 2010 when the Sox play the Texas Rangers at 7:10 p.m. The tickets will be in the lower reserved section and are available for 1/2 the cost or approximately $17.00 each. There will be bus transportation, but the per person cost is dependent on the number of attendees.

We would like to get a count of the number of students/parents interested in attending the game. Therefore, please e-mail or phone Leticia Pedraza at (lpedraza@comcast.net) or 1-630-795-0899 and let her know if you or your student would like to attend.

Responses are needed as soon as possible. Thank you!

Great America Permission Slips & Payment Due Tomorrow!

2010-05-17T21:26:00.002-05:00

Just a friendly reminder that the Great America Permission Slips and payment are due tomorrow, Tuesday May 18. They should be sent to school to the attention of Mary Durkin, c/o Colleen Durkin.

If for some reason you cannot return the form and payment tomorrow, please e-mail Mary Durkin at dkn61@comcast.net or phone her @ 630-971-9214 and let her know if your child will be attending. The group ticket order is being placed on Wednesday morning and she will reserve a ticket for your child as long as she has instructions to do so.

Thank you.

Baby Picture Reminder - Extended until Tuesday!

2010-05-17T21:24:00.004-05:00

If you have not already done so, please remember to send a baby picture of your child to the attention of Tracy O'Brien, via Kelly O'Brien, to school tomorrow (Tuesday May 18).

Thank you.

Dinner-Dance Volunteers Needed for Decorating and Clean-up

2010-05-17T21:01:00.003-05:00

Volunteers are needed for setup and decorating before, as well as clean-up after, for the 8th Grade Dinner-Dance on Friday May 28.

The decorating committee will meet on Friday May 28, starting at 1:00 p.m. in the School Hall and is expecting to work until 5:00 p.m., but hopefully earlier with enough helpers. If you can assist, the committee kindly requests that you bring your own scissors and tape with you.

Clean-up volunteers are also needed after the dance. Remember that the more that can help out, the quicker it will get done.

If you are able to volunteer, please e-mail Peggy Delaplane at delaplanefamily@aol.com.

Thank you in advance for your help!!

Baby Pictures Needed - Due Monday May 17!

2010-05-14T17:41:00.002-05:00

Another tradition during 8th grade year, is to post the graduates "baby" pictures in the gym lobby. The students, faculty, staff and parents can then have some fun guessing who is who and see how everyone has changed over the years.

The "baby age" is up to you, however, infant and toddler ages are typically chosen.

Please send one (1) baby picture to the attention of Tracy O'Brien, via Kelly O'Brien, on Monday May 17. Remember to write the child's name on the back of the picture and to put it in a sealed envelope so that the other students are not sneaking a peak before they are posted in the lobby.

Concept One - Videotaping Survey Update

2010-05-12T21:18:00.003-05:00

Thank you to everyone who responded to Marita Blanken regarding your interest in a professional video taping of the Cap and Gown Mass and Graduation Mass. Based on your replies, SJS was able to meet Concept One's minimum order and therefore, both events will be videotaped.

The prices are as follows:

$35 - Both the Graduation and Tuesday Cap and Gown Mass
$22 - Graduation Mass Only
$22 - Tuesday Cap and Gown Mass Only

Marita has the list of families who showed their interest in these videos, and if you are one of these families, your orders and payment can be forwarded on to her through the school office. A paper copy of the order form can be found in this week's paper Messenger. (Also, when available, a link to the order form will also be posted on this Blog.)

Please remember that orders are open to everyone, and not just to those who replied to Marita's survey.

Great America

2010-05-12T11:09:00.003-05:00

The 8th Grade, parent-sponsored trip to Great America has been scheduled for Thursday May 27, 2010.

Permission forms were sent home yesterday (Tuesday) and need to be returned along with payment by Tuesday May 18, 2010 to the attention of Mary Durkin, c/o Colleen Durkin.

May Crowning - Reminder!

2010-05-03T21:46:00.004-05:00

May Crowning will take place this Wednesday at 8:15 a.m. in the Church. As is tradition, the 8th Graders will wear their dress clothes to school. (The 2nd Graders will be in their First Holy Communion attire as well.)

May Crowning DVD Orders

2010-05-01T09:01:00.002-05:00

Orders for the May Crowning DVD are still being taken through this weekend. Please remember that we need to meet an order minimum with Concept One or the service may be cancelled. The cost of the DVD is $20.00.

If you would like to place an order, simple send an e-mail to Marita Blanken at marita.blanken@gmail.com. She will add your name to the list and give you instructions as to where to send your payment.

As a reminder, May Crowning is this Wednesday May 5 @ 8:15 a.m. in the church.

Thank you!

RSVP For the Graduation Dinner Dance

2010-04-24T20:30:00.002-05:00

Just a reminder that your RSVP is needed for the 8th Grade Dinner Dance no later than May 1.

Thank you to everyone who have already sent in their reply card to Amy Kovarik.

Post Confirmation Student & Parent Meeting - April 21

2010-04-20T22:32:00.002-05:00

Reminder that there is a post confirmation meeting for all newly confirmed and a parent on Wednesday April 21 from 7:00 - 8:15 p.m. in the School Hall.

Video Question eMail Follow-Up - Please send your responses directly to Marita Blanken

2010-04-12T11:30:00.003-05:00

Yesterday an e-mail was forwarded from Marita Blanken regarding the professional videotaping of May Crowning, Cap & Gown Mass and Graduation at SJS. There were two parts to the note: 1) A short poll directed at the 8th grade families regarding Cap & Gown Mass and Graduation videotaping; and 2) a May Crowning (and First Holy Communion) order form.

A response to the poll is needed from all 8th Grade families. IMPORTANT: Please send your responses directly to Marita at marita.blanken@gmail.com.

For the May Crowning order form, please follow the directions contained within to place your order.

FYI, if anyone has sent a reply to Bobbi Jo Walaszek, she has already forwarded them on to Marita for tabulation.

Thank you.

TEXT OF EMAIL SENT SUNDAY AUGUST 11, 2010

Please read and reply to this important note from Marita Blanken.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PART #1

Hello to all the 8th grade families!

This is the time of year to start thinking about videos of your child's final events at St. Joseph School. We are providing the opportunity to order the May Crowning below, and want to determine interest in 8th grade Graduation versus 8th grade Final Tuesday Mass.

Please let me know if you will be interested in future videos. This will help us determine how we should contract with Concept One Video.

_______ I would prefer a Graduation Video @ $20 each
_______ I would prefer a Tuesday 8th grade Cap & Gown Mass Video at $20 each
_______ I will not be ordering a video for the Graduation or the Cap and Gown Mass

Thanks, and please see the May Crowning order form below. We do have a required minimum. If this is not met, we will not be able to supply this service. Feel free to email me if questions.

Marita Blanken
Public Relations Director
St. Joseph School
4832 Highland Avenue
Downers Grove, IL 60515
marita.blanken@gmail.com
(p) 630.852.3686
(c) 630.935.3686
(school) 630.969.4306
www.stjosephdg.org

________________
PART #2

St. Joseph Church & School Video Order Form

First Communion Mass (April 24, April 25, May 1, May 2, 2010)

St. Joseph School’s May Crowning Service (Wednesday, May 5, 2010)

St. Joseph Parish has contracted with Concept One Video to videotape these two beautiful events.
- A minimum number of orders are needed in order to provide this service to families. -

Please return your order immediately so we are sure to have the required minimum.
This service must be cancelled if we do not receive the required number.
Thank you!

*Email your PREORDER with payment info to:
Jacquie Lackaff jlackaff@stjosephdg.org
or to: Marita Blanken marita.blanken@gmail.com
*Note: For ease in ordering, just email your name and the number of videos requested and then follow with mailed order form and payment info.

Then, if paying by check, send this order form with payment to:
Marita Blanken via St. Joseph School Office
4832 Highland Avenue, Downers Grove, IL 60515

Questions about this order form? Call Marita Blanken 630-852-3686
Videos are created by Concept One Video - 2723 Curtiss St. – Downers Grove, IL 60515 (630)810-9303
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name: __________________________________________________________________
Address: ________________________________________________________________
City/State/Zip: ___________________________________________________________
Phone: __________________________________________________________________
Email: __________________________________________________________________
I would like to order the following DVD copies – (VHS is available)
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
First Communion 2010: # of copies ________ @ $20.00 each
*Please mark Mass requested: _____ Saturday 5 p.m., April 24 ____ Sunday 10:30 April 25
_____ Saturday 5 p.m. May 1 ____ Sunday 10:30 May 2
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
May Crowning 2010 (St. Joseph School only): # of copies __________ @ $20.00 each
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
May Crowning 2010 (School only) with your child’s First Communion Mass: # of copies ___@ $25.00 ea
*Please mark Mass requested: _____ Saturday 5 p.m., April 24 ____ Sunday 10:30 April 25
_____ Saturday 5 p.m. May 1 ____ Sunday 10:30 May 2
............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
All prices include delivery directly to your home. All tapes / DVD’s are guaranteed for excellent audio/video quality.

Total due with order: $__________

_______ I WILL SEND CHECK VIA MARITA BLANKEN If paying by check, please make check payable to Concept One.
_______ I AM PAYING BY CREDIT CARD (VISA, AMEX and MasterCard Accepted)

Credit Card Number ________________________________________________ Expiration_____________

Videos provided by Concept One, 2723 Curtiss, Downers Grove, IL 60515
Videos will ship no later than 3-4 weeks after event, often sooner!
Questions? Contact Duplication Services at Concept One 630-810-9303 x100.
All tapes / DVD’s are guaranteed for excellent audio/video quality.
Transfer your videos/film and photos to DVD- Great prices for St. Joe’s families!
Makes a great grandparent gift! Thank you for your order!

Marita Blanken
Public Relations Director
St. Joseph School
4832 Highland Avenue
Downers Grove, IL 60515
marita.blanken@gmail.com
(p) 630.852.3686
(c) 630.935.3686
(school) 630.969.4306
www.stjosephdg.org

Co-Ed Volleyball Full Schedule & Correction

2010-04-06T21:54:00.003-05:00

Here is the full Co-Ed Volleyball Schedule. Please note that play dates are April 9, April 16 and April 23. There are no games scheduled for April 30.

April 9
7 pm - 7 Green Vs. 7 White
8 pm - 8 Green Vs. 8 White

April 16
7 pm - 7 Green Vs. 8Green
8 pm - 7 White Vs. 8 White

April 23
7 pm - 8 White Vs. 7 Green
8 pm - 8 Green Vs. 7 White

8 GREEN
Jonathan Blanchard
David Criter
Frank Ferconio
Charlie Kovarik
Danny Novotny
Grace Fleming
Bridget Giuffre
Meghan Harte
Emily Hodshire
Sydney Huggins
Elizabeth Malone
Molly Marciniak

8 WHITE
Mike Delaplane
Connor Economou
Matt Pedraza
Matt Perino
Ryan Walaszek
Sarah Barrett
Colleen Durkin
Sarena Martinez
Kelly O’Brien
Lauren Ryan
Clare Theisen
Becky Wade
Emma Welsh

Co-Ed Volleyball Starts This Friday!

2010-04-06T21:10:00.003-05:00

Co-Ed Volleyball begins this Friday April 9 in the school gym. The schedule for this week is as follows:

7:00 p.m. - All 7th Grade Teams
8:00 p.m. - All 8th Grade Teams

Play dates are April 9, April 16 and April 23 and the full schedule will be published later this week.

SAVE THE DATE! 8th Grade Dinner-Dance May 28

2010-04-06T21:04:00.003-05:00

The 8th Grade Dinner-Dance for students and their parents, has been confirmed for Friday May 28, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. in the School Hall.

More information will be made available as we move closer to the event date.

8th Graders Needed for Alumni Mass and Reception - This Sunday!

2010-03-19T10:05:00.003-05:00

The Alumni Mass and Reception Committee are looking for 8th Grade volunteers for the gathering this Sunday.

The Committee would love to have the 100th graduating class be part of the festivities.

Volunteers are needed before the 12:15 p.m. mass to greet and pass out candles to the alumni, as well as greet and tour with the alumni at the reception in the school after mass (approximately 1:15 p.m.)

Tour guide skills are not necessary!

Students should wear their school uniforms.

Please RSVP to Maryann Byrne as soon as possible - dgbyrne6@comcast.net.

Graduation Picture Retakes - March 22, 2010

2010-03-10T09:47:00.002-06:00

Graduation picture retakes are scheduled for Monday March 22, 2010.

Confirmation Luncheon

2010-03-05T14:16:00.003-06:00

The 8th graders, their teachers, Mrs. Stasi, Sr. Dorothy, Fr. Jerome, Fr. Matt & Marta Spiezio will be celebrating their upcoming Confirmation with a special lunch on Tuesday March 9.

Orders for 6" sub sandwiches from Subway (in Woodridge) were taken last week and will be served with a bottle of water, chips and a cookie.

So leave the lunches home next Tuesday!

Special thanks to Mary Durkin for coordinating this event. In the midst of organizing her last A&B St. Pat's Dance on Saturday, she found the time to make this happen.

THANK YOU MARY!!!!

Graduation Pictures - Orders due March 10

2010-03-04T21:56:00.002-06:00

The pre-ordered group graduation pictures and the individual head shot proofs were sent home this week with the 8th graders.

The orders for the individual head shots are due back to the 8th grade home room teachers by Wednesday March 10.

Please make a note of this.

St. Pat's Dance - A&B Needs Your Support

2010-02-28T18:33:00.003-06:00

If you have not yet responded for the St. Pat's Dinner Dance on Saturday March 6, please do so as soon as possible as the final catering order will be placed on Tuesday.

Also, this is A&B's primary fundraiser. The sale of the dinner-dance tickets and the raffle tickets helps A&B meet their financial goals in order to support all of the sports team at St. Joe's.

Thank you for your help!

Ski Trip - Thank you!

2010-02-15T20:50:00.002-06:00

Thank you's are in order to the Ski Trip chaperones (especially those that skied along with the kids and those that hauled equipment and bags) Mary Durkin, Leticia Pedraza, Mike Ferconio, Ellen Fleming, Joe Roth, Coleen Theisen, Amy & Mike Kovarik, Peggy Delaplane and Sharon Harte. A special Thank You to Michelle Walaszek for doing the behind the scenes planning, typing and copying all of the info packets and tabulating the responses as well as being the bus "leader" today.

We are especially grateful to Fr. Jerome for his blessing before we departed this morning which obviously played a big part in keeping all of the kids and chaperones safe. With only one trip to the Ski Patrol for a Bandaid, it was close to a perfect day!

We sincerely hope that everyone had fun.

IMPORTANT - Last Minute Ski Trip Info

2010-02-14T18:25:00.002-06:00

The ski trip is tomorrow. Please pray for a safe and fun trip for all and read below for some important last minute information.

DEPARTURE INFO
Daily mass is celebrated at 7:00 a.m. at the church. When dropping off your child in the morning, please park away from the front doors of the church in order to allow the worshippers to have the closer parking spots. Also remind your child to keep the noise level down so as not to disrupt the mass.

ARRIVAL INFO
The parish mission continues on Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. Depending on our arrival time from Wilmot and so as not to interfere with parking for the mission, the bus may need to drop us off on Highland. We will do our best to keep everyone posted as to our location when we arrive.

SAFETY
We want everyone to have fun on this outing but safety comes first in order to protect themselves and the other skiers/snowboarders around them. Therefore if any of our students are found to be disobeying the rules, acting mischievous or ignoring ski patrol and/or chaperone orders, you will be called to pick them up immediately from Wilmot. This is not unlike the rules for Outdoor Ed in 6th grade and we hope you understand why safety is so important on a trip like this. Please share this information with your child before they board the bus tomorrow.

Thank you for your help.

Graduation Pictures Reminder

2010-02-11T18:58:00.004-06:00

Tomorrow is graduation picture day. Students are reminded to bring their cap (with green tassel) and gown to school and the group picture order form if they have not yet returned it to their home room teacher. FYI, the group picture order is optional.

Students will be in their dress clothes for the entire day.

Graduation Dinner Dance Committee Meeting - February 13

2010-02-11T06:02:00.002-06:00

The Graduation Dinner Dance Committee will be meeting this Saturday February, 13 at 10:00 AM in the School Hall. All interested parents are welcomed to attend. Questions? Please contact Sandy Keaveny.

Graduation Pictures - Yellow Info Sheet

2010-02-10T07:36:00.003-06:00

In case you did not receive the yellow picture information form, here is the text:

GRADUATION PICTURES

Please make a note...

GRADUATION PICTURES WILL BE TAKEN AT YOUR SCHOOL ON:

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2010

_____________________________________________________________
Four (4) poses will be taken for your graduation pictures. Two (2) will be taken wearing the graduation cap & gown, and two (2) will be taken wearing dress clothes. In a few weeks your proofs will be sent to you with instructions to order and the package prices.

Please pay special attention to the deadline date set by your school for the return of your order and proofs.

We suggest that boys wear a dress shirt and tie with a suit, sport coat or sweater, and girls wear a dress or blouse so that the neckline will not show under the graduation gown.

Good grooming is very important to insure a good picture. Please have your hair combed as you would want it when you come to the camera to be photographed.

Thank you.

Ski Trip Chaperones - Please Reply

2010-02-07T19:17:00.004-06:00

If you are a ski trip chaperone (or would like to be one--the more the merrier) please e-mail Bobbi Jo Walaszek (bobbijohome@comcast.net) with the following information by Tuesday morning (February 9). This information is needed for our final total of attendees at Wilmot.

1) Are you bringing any siblings or guests? If yes, please list names.
2) Do you need a lift ticket?
3) Do any siblings or guests need lift tickets? If yes, please indicate by name.
4) Do you or siblings/guests need rentals? If yes, please indicate ski OR snowboard by person's name.
5) Do you or siblings/guests need a helmet? If yes, please indicate by person's name.

FYI, the group rate for lift tickets and rentals offers substantial savings, but Wilmot must have the headcount in advance in order to take advantage of this discount.

Call Bobbi Jo (630) 968-6128 or e-mail her with any questions. Thank you!

Ski Trip Info Packets

2010-02-06T07:40:00.002-06:00

The Ski Trip info packets were sent home late last week. They have a green cover sheet and are due on Monday February 8.

If by chance your child did not receive a copy, extras are available at the Fun Fair today (at the Cake Walk or Face Painting.)

February 12: Please Read - Lots Going On!

2010-02-04T09:59:00.005-06:00

February 12 will be a very busy day for the 8th graders, as there are graduation pictures, ballroom dance class "finals" and the confirmation retreat. Here are some reminders on the day's activities:

1) GRADUATION PICTURES:
**Graduation pictures will be taken in the morning.
--Information sheets (one yellow 1/2 page and 1 white smaller envelope) were sent home last week. The yellow sheet is informational and talks about the pictures that the students will be taking individually in their dress clothes and in their caps and gowns. You will see the proofs of these before selecting and purchasing your portraits. The smaller, white envelope is the order form for the photo's that are taken of the students in the dress clothes and in their caps and gowns as a group (standing side by side). This envelope/order form with payment needs to returned on February 12. Please note that these group photo's are 8x10 in size and should not be confused with the much larger individual head shot composite photo of the students in their caps and gowns along with individual photos of Mrs. Stasi, Mr. Murphy, Mrs. Standish, Sr. Dorothy and Fr. Jerome. You will be able to purchase this photo at the time you purchase you individual pictures after reviewing the proofs.

2) BALLROOM DANCE CLASS "FINALS"
**Dance finals will occur after all of the lunch periods are done and the cafeteria cleaned up.
--As part of the normal music curriculum at St. Joe's, Mrs. Schmitt has been teaching the students several ballroom dances. After lunch on February 12, the students will get to demonstrate what they have learned. Please note that this is part of the school day and is classroom instruction time. It is not a separate "social" dance". However don't feel as if you are missing out on the event as Mr. Murphy will videotape the ballroom dance finals and it will be included in the 8th grade Memory DVD which the students will receive at the end of the school year.

3) CONFIRMATION RETREAT
**Confirmation Retreat will be held in the School Hall from 4:00 - 9:00 p.m.
--Dinner (pizza) will be served. If you have any questions on the Confirmation Retreat, please direct them to Marta Spiezio in the Parish Center.

February 6 Cake Walk - Need LOTS of Baked Goods

2010-02-03T06:36:00.002-06:00

Fun Fair - Baked Goods

Hello,

We're looking for baked goods for the 8th grade cake walk. We'll need lots of help in order to have enough baked goods for the full four hours. The money raised goes toward the 8th grade graduation dinner dance.

Items can be dropped off on Friday, after school up until 5:00 p.m., or on Saturday, as early as 10:00 a.m.

If these times don't work for you, just give me a call and we can make other arrangements. Items should be wrapped and on a disposable plate.

If the kids do the baking, it counts toward their service hours.

Thanks so much for any items you might be able to donate!

Neva Welsh
630-272-8320

Looking For A Few Good....Ski Trip Chaperones!

2010-01-28T18:29:00.002-06:00

The 8th Grade Ski Trip is a parent-sponsored event and we need more parents to chaperone in order to make this a safe and fun day for the kids.

The date is Monday February 15, 2010 and the bus will depart from SJS at 7:15 a.m. for Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin with an estimated time of arrival back at SJS at 7:00 p.m.

Here are some of the areas that we need chaperones (obviously you could fill in, in more than one area):

--4 parents to ride the bus to and from Wilmot.
--Several parents to drive and transport the kids gear (duffel bags, skis, snowboards, boots, etc.) for the day (the bus will be very crowded)
--Several parents who can ski or snowboard to help the kids with rental equipment, getting on and off of the chair lifts the first few times, etc. (A small quantity of complimentary lift tickets will be available and given to parents who volunteer to ski or snowboard that day).
--Several parents to stay in the lodge where we will setup our base "camp".

Remember: Siblings are welcome!

We need to ensure that the chaperones are in place before we commit our group to Wilmot and to the bus company and we need to do this quickly, as the date is fast approaching. Unfortunately without a sufficient amount of chaperones, the ski trip will be cancelled.

If you are interested in chaperoning the ski trip, please contact Bobbi Jo Walaszek (bobbijohome@comcast.net or 630-968-6128).

Thank you for your help!

P.S. The room moms would like to thank everyone who has volunteered thus far.

FUN FAIR: Cake Walk Volunteers

2010-01-24T19:23:00.002-06:00

While the earlier post on general Fun Fair Volunteers is still true, the 8th graders traditionally staff the Cake Walk and Face Painting booths so we need to make sure that these volunteer slots are filled first. Below is a note from Neva Welsh, who is coordinating the 8th graders for these areas.

Sorry for any confusion the earlier post may have caused.

-----------------------------------------------------
The 8th grade is in charge of running the cake walk and the face painting at the fun fair. We"ll need lots of 8th grade students to help out. The kids usually have a fun time volunteering with their classmates.

We'll be putting a sign up sheet in the class rooms on Tuesday or Wednesday of this week. We wanted to give you a heads up on the sign up sheet so that you have the opportunity to discuss sport and extracurricular schedules with your child. There are quite a few games on Feb 6th! The kids who sign up for the the cake walk are welcome to make a song play list to be used during their shift. School appropriate please! :)

We'll also need lots of baked goods for the cake walk. We're hoping that each family might be able to donate something. Any hours spent working at the fun fair or spent baking can use used as service project hours! There will be a second note with the hours the baked goods can be dropped off at school. The fun fair coordinator is still working out some details and doesn't yet know when the doors will be open to drop off items.

For questions, please contact Neva Welsh (630) 272-8320. Thanks!

Fun Fair: 8th Graders Needed - Service Hours Opportunity

2010-01-24T17:43:00.003-06:00

Please pass this message along to your 8th graders.

The Fun Fair coordinators are in need of many 8th grade volunteers to work between Noon and 3:00 p.m. on Saturday February 6, 2010. Service hour credit will be given for the time volunteered.

Contact Danielle Brauweiler at danielle_brauweiler@yahoo.com to sign up.

2nd Request - Volunteers Needed to Sell Spirit Wear

2010-01-23T07:16:00.002-06:00

Spirit Wear sales are the #1 fund raiser for the 8th grade class. There will be a table setup during Open House on January 31 from 1:00-3:00 p.m. to sell cash and carry items such as hats, umbrellas, green grocery totes, water bottles, pens, etc.

We need adults to facilitate, but a few 8th graders working the table (and perhaps modeling some of their previously purchased Spirit Wear) would be ideal.

If you or your child can help, please contact Maribeth Ruf.

Caps and Gowns

2010-01-19T20:00:00.002-06:00

Caps and Gowns were sent home last week with the students. They are compactly packaged and the gowns should be hung up as soon as possible in order to help remove the wrinkles prior to graduation picture day on February 12.

If you find it necessary to use some extra effort to remove the wrinkles, remember that the fabric is extremely delicate so use caution!

In case you were wondering, the Caps and Gowns are yours to keep.

SAVE THE DATE: 8th Grade Ski Trip February 15, 2010

2010-01-19T16:32:00.002-06:00

The 8th grade ski trip is being planned for Monday February 15, 2010. It is a day trip and more information on location, departure/arrival times, what to bring, costs, permission slips, etc. will be shared shortly.

This is an annual event for the 8th graders. Lessons will be required before anyone hits the slopes! If your child is not interested in skiing, they are still welcome to enjoy the day with their classmates. We will have an area setup in the ski lodge where they can play games, or hang out with their friends who come in to take a break or to have lunch.

If you have signed up to volunteer and want to bring other siblings due to the President's Day holiday, by all means please do so. The more the merrier. All we ask is that the siblings remain under your supervision.

Confirmation Retreat Permission Slips Are Due January 20, 2010

2010-01-19T14:25:00.002-06:00

Just a reminder that the Confirmation Retreat Permission Slips are due at school TOMORROW, Wednesday January 20, 2010!

Please note that this is the Diocese of Joliet - St. Joseph Youth Ministry Permission Form. It is in a different format than the standard St. Joe's Permission Slip and is printed on white paper.

Spirit Wear Sales @ Open House - Can you help?

2010-01-12T20:39:00.005-06:00

During Open House on Sunday January 31 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. there will be a table setup for Spirit Wear sales. There are still lots of cash and carry items available such as hats, umbrellas, green grocery totes, water bottles, pens, etc. As you may recall, Spirit Wear sales are the #1 fund raiser for the 8th grade class.

There needs to be at least one (1) adult to facilitate, but a few 8th graders working the table (and perhaps modeling some of their previously purchased Spirit Wear) would be ideal.

If you or your child can help, please contact Maribeth Ruf mailto:maribeth.reilly@gmail.com.

Tour Guides Needed for Open House

2010-01-12T19:53:00.004-06:00

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK
JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 5
TOUR GUIDES NEEDED FOR OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 31, 1-3PM

We are excited to begin enrollment for 2010-2011. Most new school families come to us through recommendations from current families - so you are very important in this process! If you know of anyone that would be interested in coming to Open House, please forward the attached invite. Thanks for helping to keep our enrollment strong.
>> Open House Invitation Flyer

Additionally, we are in need of tour guides for Open House. Newer families are great because they are familiar with our Kindergarten program - a key topic with incoming families. But families that have been with us for awhile, especially those with 8th graders, are also helpful as you can offer lots of information from your experience at St. Joe's. If you can help, please email Janet Fosket at mailto:mjfosket@comcast.net.

And don't forget - St. Joseph Preschool will open in September 2010 for 3 and 4-year-old children. Please see the attached for more information and share it with family members or neighbors who may be interested.
>>Preschool Flyer

Lunch Monitors Needed on Tuesdays

2010-01-05T22:18:00.004-06:00

Each month during Market Day pick-up, the 8th graders have lunch in their classrooms. On these days, one parent is needed to monitor the 8th graders so that the teachers can also take their lunch break. The dates are all Tuesdays: January 12, February 9, March 9, April 13 and May 11.

If you are able to volunteer on one or more of these dates, please contact Mary Durkin. Total commitment time is less than one (1) hour each date!

You may bring younger siblings if necessary.

Message from the Kranz' Family

2009-12-20T09:28:00.002-06:00

Just wanted to be sure that everyone saw this note from Jayne and Paul Kranz:

Dear St. Joseph Families, Teachers, Friends and Classmates;

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for the tremendous outpouring of love and support extended to Emily and our entire family this past year. Watching her participate in the Christmas program with her peers and all the other beautiful children, was beyond words.

It is hard to fathom that last year she was in the ICU fighting for her life. The power of love and prayers are evident in Emily’s miraculous recovery. She is simply amazing! We are so proud of Emily and her remarkable patience and determination to get well. It is truly an honor to be her parents!

It is both a privilege and blessing to be part of community that cares so deeply for our daughter. We continue to be overwhelmed by everyone’s support and generosity. All of you have been instrumental in her healing process.

We would like to "give back" a little of the love that was bestowed on Emily and our family last Christmas. We are planning to delivery non-perishable food and holiday treats to the families whose children are in the ICU @ Loyola this Christmas. We would be extremely grateful for any contributions. Suggestions: breads, cookies, fruit, candy, money, gift certificates from Manna, magazines, small games for children of all ages. Families literally live in the waiting rooms @ the ICU, while their children fight for their lives. Please help us make their waiting more bearable this Christmas. If you can help, please deliver donations to Sister Dorothy by 12:00 p.m. on 12/24. If she is not @ home you may leave the items on her front porch!

We wish everyone a blessed holiday season and a happy healthy New Year! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for everything.

Sincerely,

The Kranz Family

Note to 8th Grade Girls: Poinsettia's for Tonight's Christmas Performance

2009-12-17T13:59:00.002-06:00

Note from Mrs. Schmitt:

Today the 8th grade girls received a silk poinsettia to wear at tonight's Christmas performance. The girls may wear the flower anywhere ...in their hair, on their wrist, pinned to their outfit, on their belt, etc. Feel free to trim down the stems. The flowers can be glued to a headband or barrette also.

CSD99 - English Honors Testing Update

2009-12-16T10:51:00.001-06:00

Because of the bad weather on the last writing prompt date and the fact that some of the private schools received late notification of the dates, District 99 is offering two more opportunities for students to come in and write an essay for placement in the English Honors program.

The additional dates and times are as follows:

Wednesday, January 6 at North High School, Room 210: 4:00-5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, January 12 at South High School, Room C364: 7:00-8:00 p.m.

Confirmation Date Has Been Set!

2009-12-15T20:23:00.002-06:00

Confirmation will be held on:

Saturday March 13, 2010 @ 10:00 a.m.

Please mark it on your calendars.

$5.00 Grab-bag - Gift Ideas

2009-12-15T14:04:00.003-06:00

In case your child is looking for ideas, here are some suggestions for the grab-bag gift:

--Caribou, Starbucks, Great American Bagel or Every Day's a Sundae Gift Cards
--Ornament
--Candy
--Christmas items such as pens or pencils (items you can probably find at Factory Card Outlet or Hallmark)

Ideally the gifts should be non-gender specific. Hope this helps!

$5.00 Grab-Bag Needed - Friday December 18

2009-12-15T13:35:00.003-06:00

All 8th Grader's are being asked to bring a wrapped, $5.00 grab-bag to school on Friday December 18, 2009.

In addition to some light snacks, the room moms are planning an exciting game for them to play during their Christmas Party. (At least we think it's exciting.) ;)

Hard to believe that Christmas break is already upon us!

Re-Post: Volunteers Needed on Monday December 21

2009-12-14T09:48:00.003-06:00

There are only four (4) 8th Graders that signed up for this project. Chick really needs eighteen (18) in order to make this a special day for her Senior Citizens. If your child is interested in participating, please e-mail Mary Durkin (info below) as soon as possible.

Thank you for your help!

Volunteers Needed - Service Hours Opportunity December 21 10-11 a.m.
Chick Briner, SJ parishioner, who also works for Gloria Dei's Senior Citizen Day Care, is looking for 8th grade volunteers to work on a craft project. This is an annual event for the SJS 8th graders and this year it will be held on Monday December 21, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. Each 8th grader is paired up with a Senior Citizen and together they make a craft project that the Senior then gets to keep. Chick says the Senior Citizens really enjoy this time and it truly brightens up their day. She is asking for eighteen (18) volunteers. If your child is interested in volunteering and receiving service hours, please RSVP to Mary Durkin at dkn61@comcast.net as soon as possible. Participation will be determined on a first come, first served basis in the order in which the RSVP’s are received.

Planning Ahead - Graduation Pictures February 12, 2010

2009-12-07T11:41:00.002-06:00

Graduation pictures will be taken at SJS on Friday February 12, 2010 during the school day. The students traditionally have their pictures taken in a Cap and Gown, as well as in their dress clothes. Typically the boys wear a suit and the girls wear dresses.

More information will follow as the day comes closer.

REMINDER - Confirmation Forms Due Wednesday December 16, 2009

2009-12-07T11:20:00.005-06:00

The following forms are due on Wednesday December 16, 2009:

1) Information Form For Permanent Church Records; and
2) First Semester Service Hours (2 pages)

Both forms can be found in the St. Joseph Parish Confirmation Program red folder that was distributed during the 8th Grade Confirmation Meeting held on September 30.

Please make a note of this.

DGS & DGN English I Honors Program

2009-12-02T21:33:00.002-06:00

All 8th graders were given a notice this week from District 99 about upcoming test dates for those students interested in enrolling in English I Honors at DGS or DGN. In case you missed it, here is the body of the message:

District 99 requires all students interested in English I Honors placement to complete a writing prompt. The process should take approximately 50 minutes. The students may choose to attend one of the following sessions:

Thursday December 3 @ South High - Room C364 - 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Saturday December 5 @ North High - Room 276 - 9:00-10:00 a.m.
Wednesday December 9 @ South High - Room C364 - 7:00-8:00 p.m.

Students do not need to pre-register; they should jut report to the assigned room on the day they choose. We ask that students bring loose-leaf paper and a writing utensil.

Volunteers Needed - Service Hours Opportunity December 21 10-11 a.m.

2009-12-02T21:24:00.003-06:00

Chick Briner, SJ parishioner, who also works for Gloria Dei's Senior Citizen Day Care, is looking for 8th grade volunteers to work on a craft project.

This is an annual event for the SJS 8th graders and this year it will be held on Monday December 21, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. Each 8th grader is paired up with a Senior Citizen and together they make a craft project that the Senior then gets to keep. Chick says the Senior Citizens really enjoy this time and it truly brightens up their day. He is asking for eighteen (18) volunteers.

If your child is interested in volunteering and receiving service hours, please RSVP to Mary Durkin at dkn61@comcast.net as soon as possible. Participation will be determined on a first come, first served basis in the order in which the RSVP’s are received.

Thank you!

2009-12-02T20:22:00.004-06:00

Thank you's are in order for the following individuals on behalf of the 8th grade class:

MARIBETH RUF and KELLY ROTH for the Spirit Wear Sale. A special thank you to all the volunteers who helped fill the orders and deliver them to the classrooms for distribution.

ELLEN FLEMING and CAROLE MALONE for the Pumpkin Sale (especially for their efforts during a very rainy pick up day!) Thank you to Wannemakers for their delivery and for seeing that we had the best pumpkins available the day of pick-up.

TERESE LAMOUREAUX for organizing the Feed My Starving Children service project. Also a special thank you to all of the chaperones who doubled as chauffeurs the day of the event.

And although still a work in progress, DON and LYNETTE WADE for their work on the Coat Drive.

Final Details: Haunted Forest Walk - Saturday October 24

2009-10-22T22:59:00.001-05:00

LOCATION/ARRIVAL TIME:
Please plan to meet at the Woodridge Park District, 2600 Center Drive, Woodridge at 6pm or shortly after...the event begins at 6:30 p.m.

KELLY NOVOTNY will be at the park at 6:00 p.m. to meet the group. If you need to make changes or add a name to the list of attendees, please call Kelly's cell at (630) 935-7934. By doing so the chaperone's will know when all students have arrived to begin the walk.

PICK UP:
Plan to pick up your child at 8:30 pm at the park.

COST:
Event fee is $7 and the students may wish to bring extra $$ for purchasing refreshments.

TRANSPORTATION:
Carpooling is suggested but is not required as you may drop off your child at the Park District.

Leticia Pedraza and Andrea Petrino have offered to drive after the conclusion of 5:00 p.m. Mass, so please contact them directly to arrange rides.

ATTENDEES:
The following 8th graders have currently signed up for the walk.

Michael Delaplane
Colleen Durkin
Connor Economou
Bridget Guiffre
Sydney Huggins
Kaileen Mangan
Kelly O'Brien
Matt Pedraza
Charlie Roth
Lauren Ryan
Ryan Walaszek
Emma Welsh

It is not too late to sign up. The more the merrier...or should I say ....the more the spookier?

REMINDER: Reading Tree Registration due October 22

2009-10-21T06:23:00.004-05:00

If you are interested in enrolling your child in the Reading Tree High School Entrance Exam Prep Course, the forms are due to the SJS office on Thursday October 22. Here is the original blog post:

Information on the high school entrance exam prep course, offered through The Reading Tree, was sent home last week to all 8th graders.

The eight (8) session course is offered on-site, after school at SJS starting on October 26, 2009.

Registration forms are due to the school office by Thursday October 22, 2009.

Volunteers Needed - Final Home Matches for Volleyball

2009-10-18T08:35:00.003-05:00

Next weekend marks the last home matches/games for the 8th grade girls volleyball teams. As is tradition at SJS, the event is celebrated by decorating the gym and recognizing the 8th grade team members.

Volunteers are needed to help decorate the gym. If you are available, please contact Mary Durkin at dkn61@comcast.net or (630) 971-9214.

FYI, here are the dates and times for the final home matches:

8A - Friday October 23 @ 8:00 p.m.
8B1 - Saturday October 24 @ 1:00 p.m.
8B2 - Saturday October 24 @ 2:00 p.m.

Even if you are unable to volunteer for decorating, everyone is welcomed to attend to cheer on our 8th grade girl volleyball players on this special occasion.

RSVP Needed - Haunted Forest Walk

2009-10-16T09:53:00.003-05:00

If your child is planning on attending the Haunted Forest Walk and Hayride on Saturday October 24, please send an RSVP to Anne Harris no later than Wednesday October 21, 2009:

steveharris70@comcast.net

In your note, please indicate if your child will be:

1) Attending mass at 5:00 p.m.; and/or leaving directly from SJ's; or
2) Meeting at Hawthorne Hill Woods.

Your RSVP will help inform the chaperone's who they are expecting so that everyone can walk together as a group at the event.

Please remember that transportation is not provided so car pooling is encouraged to help get the kids to/from the event.

Haunted Forest Walk & Hayride - Saturday October 24, 2009

2009-10-14T21:51:00.005-05:00

Here is the information on the Haunted Forest Walk and Hayride at the Woodridge Park District on Saturday October 24, 2009. For those parents who signed up to chaperone and/or drive, the room mom's are suggesting that the children attend 5:00 p.m. mass and then leave from the church parking lot, arriving at the event between 6:30 and 6:45 p.m. However, this is not mandatory and the children can be driven directly to the event where they will meet as a group.

Haunted Forest Walk
Carpool to: Woodridge Park District
2600 Center Drive
Woodridge, Il 60517

Event begins at 6:30 p.m.

Hawthorne Hill Woods will be transformed into a thrill of scary scenes, complete with ghosts, ghouls and all sorts of creatures that slither and groan. There will be plenty of monsters and ghouls out to WELCOME you!

Park at the Community Center, 2600 Center Drive, and enjoy a hayride to Hawthorne Hills Woods.

Parental Discretion
$7.00 per person /evening hours
Tickets can be purchased when arriving to Woodridge Community Center.

Wear Gym shoes, walk will take place on wood chips.

8 – 9 haunted scenes will be viewed

Hot Chocolate and candy can be purchased

School Pictures - Clarified

2009-10-13T21:01:00.003-05:00

During 8th grade, there are two different times in the school year that our children are officially photographed at SJS and pictures offered for sale.

--The first happens on Thursday October 15 and is the annual pictures that all children and teachers participate in at SJS.

--The second will happen in early February and will be for the 8th graders only. This is traditionally a more formal portrait of each student taken for graduation, as the students will also have an opportunity to pose for a picture in a cap and gown. There will also be a large class photo created of all of the 8th graders (both classes) in their caps and gowns. (Similar to the ones hanging outside of the School Office.) There may also be a group photo taken on the altar at church of all of the students.

Hope this clarifies some of the picture mystery for the 8th graders.

8th Grade T-Shirts - ACTION NEEDED!

2009-10-12T10:16:00.002-05:00

The reprinted 8th Grade t-shirts have arrived and will be distributed during lunch on Tuesday October 13.

All students must turn in their original, misprinted t-shirts in order to receive the new shirts.

Please let your child know to bring the old t-shirts with them to school on Tuesday (tomorrow).

Thank you.

Kazma Family Foundation - Tuition Assistance Grant

2009-10-09T09:37:00.004-05:00

Mrs. Stasi would like to share the following information from the Catholic Education Foundation of the Diocese of Joliet with all of our 8th Grade Families.

Please note that the attachments referenced in the letter below will be sent to all 8th Grade parents via e-mail :

_____________________________________
October 2009

Dear Eighth Graders,

The Catholic Education Foundation is pleased to announce a tremendous opportunity for eighth-grade students.

The Kazma Family Foundation will be providing a four-year renewable tuition assistance grant to students entering any of the Catholic high schools in the Diocese of Joliet. Thirty-five students will be selected based on financial need.

Please review the attached information regarding the Kazma Family Scholarship and complete the application by February 19, 2010.

If you have any questions regarding this grant, contact Jane Lagger at the Catholic Education Foundation at 815/834-4033 or jlagger@dioceseofjoliet.org.

Sincerely,

Jane Lagger, Director
Catholic Education Foundation

Confirmation Retreat - Out of Uniform Tomorrow

2009-10-07T17:20:00.001-05:00

Thursday October 8 is the 8th graders confirmation retreat at school. It is an out of uniform day but the children should be neatly dressed.

Entrance Exam Prep Course - The Reading Tree

2009-10-07T05:45:00.002-05:00

Information on the high school entrance exam prep course, offered through The Reading Tree, was sent home last week to all 8th graders.

The eight (8) session course is offered on-site, after school at SJS starting on October 26, 2009.

Registration forms are due to the school office by Thursday October 22, 2009.

T-Shirts - Please Read!

2009-10-01T20:17:00.003-05:00

As some of you may have already noticed, the 8th Grade Class T-Shirts have a typo on them. Instead of SJS 2010, it reads SJS 2009.

We have contacted the vendor and they will be reprinting new t-shirts for the class. There is no delivery date as yet.

We will be collecting the original shirts for distribution to a needy charity.

More information on the return, and the delivery date for the reprinted t-shirts will be posted at a later date.

Spirit Wear Orders Due Wednesday September 30!

2009-09-27T12:07:00.002-05:00

A reminder that the 2009 Spirit Wear orders are due to the School Office on Wednesday September 30. If you need an order form, go to the school website http://www.stjosephdg.org/school/index.php.

Proceeds benefit the 8th grade dinner/dance and any extra proceeds will benefit St. Joseph School.

REMINDER - Gift Wrap Orders Due Monday 9/28/2009

2009-09-27T12:02:00.002-05:00

Gift Wrap orders are due tomorrow, Monday September 28, 2009. If you are not ordering via the Internet, remember to return the order form (all copies) and payment (checks made payable to St. Joseph Parent Forum) in the large, white envelope provided earlier with the catalogs.

Homecoming 2009 Wrap-up

2009-09-21T20:03:00.002-05:00

Thank you to everyone who made St. Joseph's School 2009 Homecoming a huge success! From the pep rally to the 8th grade pizza party to the day of events at Montini, it was a fun weekend for all.

We would like to especially thank:

Mrs. Stasi - For agreeing to the Pep Rally during school hours on Friday.
Sharon Harte - Pep Rally/Volleyball Games reschedule to Montini
The Roth's - Hosting the 8th Grade Pizza Party at their house for the 2nd year in a row!
Maribeth Ruf - Spirit Wear Sales

And most importantly, a big THANK YOU to Mary Durkin who works tirelessly year after year in making SJS Homecoming Weekend the best event anywhere for both children and parents.

Volleyball Games Location Change for Sunday 9/20/2009

2009-09-18T10:44:00.002-05:00

All scheduled SJS Home Volleyball games will played at Montini this Sunday, September 20, 2009 in honor of Homecoming. This will affect the following teams:

5B @ 1:30 p.m.
7A @ 2:30 p.m.
8B-2 @ 3:30 p.m.

A very special THANK YOU to Montini for the use of their gym!

GO CRUSADERS!

Protecting God's Children

2009-09-16T20:43:00.002-05:00

With so many activities this year, please be sure to have completed the Protecting God's Children Program and a Background Check* if you are planning to volunteer your time at St. Joseph's. This is a requirement set forth from the Diocese which St. Joe's enforces out of safety and concern for our children.

Here is the link to the information on the school website or contact the school office for more information.

http://www.stjosephdg.org/school/parent_volunteer.php

*If you are a "seasoned" St. Joe Parent who has already gone through the PGC Program, you may need to have a second background check performed as they are only good for a set amount of time. The School Office will contact you if you need to submit to a new background check.

8th Grade Motto T-Shirts - Orders due 9/16/2009

2009-09-14T08:27:00.003-05:00

The order form for the 8th Grade Motto T-Shirts was sent home in the Friday folder last week.

ORDERS ARE DUE BY WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 16, 2009.

The cost is $10 and the order form and payment (if check, payable to St. Joseph School) needs to be returned to Anne Ryan c/o Lauren Ryan Room 101 by Wednesday.

LAST CALL - Feed My Starving Children Attendees

2009-09-07T21:41:00.002-05:00

Feed My Starving Children - Tuesday November 10

Anyone who did not sign up their 8th grader at the Meet and Greet will need to contact Terese Lamoureaux ASAP if their 8th grader would like to participate. We have 40 of 50 slots filled. If we do not get another 10 8th graders, we will fill the empty spots with some family members who have expressed interest.

2009 SPIRIT WEAR ORDERS - 8th Grade Fundraiser

2009-09-07T21:27:00.002-05:00

Information on this year's Spirit Wear Order, which is the major fundraiser* for the 8th Grade Class, was sent home last week and is available on-line through the SJS Website. Here is the link:

http://www.stjosephdg.org/school/spiritwear.php

Orders are due by September 3o, 2009.

*For those of you who missed the 8th Grade Parent Meeting after Meet and Greet last month, the 8th Grade Class traditionally sponsors various fundraisers through-out the year to offset the cost of the 8th Grade Dinner-Dance which is free to all students and their parents. In addition, at graduation, the class then makes a contribution to the school as a legacy to their years at St. Joe's. Previous gifts have included outdoor benches, crucifixes/religious statues, and most recently, carpeting and hallway improvements to the gym area.

Basketball Try-outs

2009-09-07T21:22:00.002-05:00

Basketball Try-out dates and times have been published:

8th Grade BOYS - Saturday September 12 from 2:15 - 3:45 p.m.

8th Grade GIRLS - Saturday September 19 from 2:00 - 3:30 p.m.

All students signed up for basketball must attend the evaluation for their grade.

Any student unable to attend their evaluation will be placed on the B team.

Teams are made by dividing the best evaluated athletes on A team. Then the remaining athletes are slotted for the B team. If there are 2 B teams, the athletes will be divided up equally per B team.

DGN & DGS/District 99 Registration & Pre-Entrance Test

2009-09-07T21:06:00.004-05:00

All 8th Graders should have received the Community High School District 99 (DGN and DGS) Enrollment packet which was sent home last week via school.

The packet contained important information on the registration process and form (blue-DGS or purple-DGN) which must be returned to its respective high school by September 18, 2009. In addition, the packet also contained information on the Pre-Entrance Test scheduled for Saturday September 26 from 7:45 a.m. to approximately 11:45 a.m. at Downers Grove South (for both schools.)

Even if you are planning on sending your child to a private school at this time, considering registering with District 99. First, the Pre-Entrance Test is good testing practice and it will have your child in place to go to District 99 if you choose to go with the public high school after all. (It is only September you know. Next year is a long ways away (relatively speaking of course!))

8th Grade Confirmation Meeting - 9/30/2009

2009-09-07T20:58:00.001-05:00

Grade 8 Parent & Student Confirmation Meeting

WHEN: Wednesday, September 30
TIME: 7-8:30 pm in the Church

7th & 8th Grade Halloween Party

2009-09-07T20:53:00.002-05:00

7th & 8th Grade Halloween Party

Who: 7th and 8th Grade Classes
Where: Orchard Brook Clubhouse
When: Saturday, October 31st
Time: 7 pm to 10 pm
Price: $10.00 includes pizza and beverage
R.S.V.P. with payment: Theresa Lucas co: Karoline Rm#201
Special Note: This is a lock in, once in, your child may not leave until a designated parent picks them up.

The 7th Grade Moms have come up with the idea of having a Halloween party for the 7th & 8th grade SJS classes on Halloween night. We have reserved the Orchard Brook clubhouse and have arranged for Fr. Matt to join us in the festivities with swing dance lessons! We will however, need everyones' help for the following activities.
**Music (put together a play list of great music on an ipod, approx. 2 hours worth of music, repeats ok)
**Games (fun activities such as apple bobbing)
**Haunted House (the girls locker room is available for a funfreaky haunted house - spaghetti guts, fake chain saws, anything you can think of)
**Decorations (streamers, pumpkins, etc.)
**Set up (setting up tables and chairs, electric cords for stereo, etc.)
**Tear Down (putting it all away!)
**Parent Chaperones

We can assign these tasks to teams (i.e. 7th Grade Girls Volleyball B team takes set up) to make it easy but it would be best if each team volunteered for something that they would like to do.

We need an 8th grade contact person and a 7th grade contact person.

For more information, please contact Theresa Lucas at (630)728-9915 or via the web at tlucas3649@gmail.com

Thank you for attending the 8th Grade Parents Meeting!

2009-08-27T23:03:00.002-05:00

There was a great turnout for the 8th Grade parents meeting held after Meet & Greet on Wednesday August 26. Many volunteers signed up to the help and/or chair the various activities throughout the year. The response was overwhelming.

The list of events and volunteers will be posted in the near future.

SAVE THE DATE - Saturday September 19 - Homecoming Party

2009-08-23T22:36:00.002-05:00

The Roth's have generously offered again to host a Homecoming party for the 8th Graders on Saturday September 19. More details to follow.

Feed My Starving Children - More Info

2009-08-23T22:23:00.003-05:00

As you read in the last post, the 8th Graders can participate in a service project "Feed My Starving Children" on Tuesday November 10, 2009. The hours of commitment, including travel time to Aurora, is from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

At this time we are still working out the transportation details, but we are anticipating that we will need parents to volunteer to drive. We wanted to mention this since this is also the day of Parent-Teacher conferences at SJS so please schedule accordingly if you are also willing to help transport the 8th Graders to Aurora on November 10. Thank you!

Additional Info for Meet & Greet - 8th Grade Parents Meeting

2009-08-23T09:48:00.003-05:00

Hello 8th grade parents!

As previously posted on the 8th grade blog, we will have a brief meeting for all 8th grade parents at the conclusion of the Meet & Greet night, on August 26th. At this time, we will give an overview of the special events that will occur during our children’s 8th grade school year. We will provide an opportunity for all parents to volunteer to assist in one of the many activities. The planning for the following activities/events is already underway with the following chairpersons:

*Class T-shirts - Anne Ryan
*Spirit Wear sales- Maribeth Ruf and Kelly Roth
*Homecoming/face painting at the football game - Mary Durkin
*Haunted Hayride/Haunted Walk - Kelly Novotny
*Service Project- "Feed My Starving Children"- (Nov 10, 2009) Terese Lamoureaux
Please note: For more information on this service project, please go to the
website http://www.feedmystarvingchildren.com/. Due to the nature of this program, we will need a firm commitment in the next few weeks, as to whether or not your child will be able to attend.

The following events still need a chairperson:

*Pumpkin Sale (fall)
*Coat Drive (Dec)
*Ski Trip (Jan or Feb)
*Fun Fair/organize Cake Walk and Face Painting (Jan)
*Great America Trip (May 26, 2010?)
*Sox Game
*8th Grade Dinner Dance

We will have sign-up sheets available at the meeting and encourage everyone to participate in some capacity. We are looking forward to a great year for our kids!

8th Grade Parents Meeting--Immediately following the conclusion of Meet & Greet - August 26

2009-08-13T09:56:00.001-05:00

Please plan on attending a special 8th Grade Parents meeting at the conclusion of Meet & Greet on Wednesday August 26, 2009. The meeting will take place in the 8th Grade classrooms (exact location TBD) and is expected to last 15 minutes.

During this meeting important information on the upcoming school year will be shared and you will have an opportunity to sign up to volunteer for the many different event and activities that are planned for the 8th Graders.

In the coming days, the list of events and activities will be posted so you can have a preview of what's to come in the 2009-2010 school year.

We hope to see you all there!

First day of school - Monday August 24, 2009

2009-08-13T08:49:00.000-05:00

The first day of 8th grade begins on Monday August 24, 2009, with dismissal at 11:25 a.m. Full days the rest of the week!

Welcome to the 2009-2010 School Year!

2009-07-29T18:02:00.001-05:00