PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION

MR. RIDDER’S REMINDERS

May 5                  3^rd & 4^th Grade Spring Sing 6:30 & 7:15pm in the Parish Center

May 6                  No School – Teacher In-Service

May 11                Future Farmers of America Zoo Visit – Rain or Shine

May 12                2:00 Dismissal

May 13                Uganda Dress Down Day

May 19                PreS Picnic & PreS Last Day of School

                           7^th & 8^th Grade Variety Show

May 23                8th Grade Last Day

May 24                8^th Grade Mass 8:30am & Graduation 6:30pm

May 25                PreK Graduation 9:30 & 1:30

May 26                Field Day – Details Below

May 27                K - 7th Last Day of School – 11:00am Dismissal

3^rd & 4^th SPRING SING - Tonight, May 5^th, is the 3^rd & 4^th Grade Spring Sing will be held in the Parish Center.  We are excited to show you what we can do!  Third grade will perform at 6:30pm and fourth grade at 7:15pm.  See you there!

END OF YEAR SAFETY ISSUES - It seems like at the end of every year things getting busier and more rushed.  However, we all have to make sure that we NEVER too busy or too rushed to allow us to forget about the safety of our students.  Parents/guardians have a done a wonderful job this year and I want to make sure that continues.  I want to thank you all for making sure ALL children are dropped off in front of the school every morning in the drop off lane and that ALL children are picked up from your assigned parking lot.  When 100% of you follow these rules and expectations all our children will be put in the very best safety situations.  Thank you for putting the safety of the children before your busy and rushed times.

ST. PATRICK’S ROBOTICS TEAMS SUCCEED AT WORLDS - The St. Patrick's Robotics Team recently returned from Orlando, Florida. In this event they participated in the Vex Robotics World Championships- Middle School division against 104 teams from around the world.  Two St. Patrick’s teams competed and finished the qualifying matches ranked 14 and 21 overall.  Both teams were selected to compete on alliances in the final tournament; making them 2 of the 6 USA teams in the final 24 to compete in the tournament.  St. Patrick's teams finished on the 3rd and 5th place alliances and were the last USA team left in the tournament.  The students had a great time in Orlando and hope to climb the world’s ladder again in 2012! Encourage your kids to learn more about this outstanding program at a summer camp at St. Patrick's.  Watch for details in an upcoming Principal’s Notes! The students that attended Worlds are: Shane Fernandez, Will Fleissner, Anthony Benes, Delaney Villarreal, Jacob Carmichael, Nicholas Huetter, Reilly Jackson, Ben Benes, Mark Hansen, Lexi McGargill, Matt Davis, Andy Ernst, Emily Benes, Sarah Dyer and Chris Riddle.

TEACHER ASSISTANTS, RESOURCE (TEAM) AND EXTENDED CARE ASSISTANTS NEEDED –If you or someone you know are interested in any of these positions, please email your application, resume, and references to Mr. Ridder ridderd@stpatselkhorn.org.  

One Part-time Preschool TA on Tuesday/Thursday
One Full-time 1^st Grade TA Monday-Friday 
One Part-time 3rd Grade TA Monday-Friday

One Part-time 6th Grade TA Monday-Friday
One Part-time 7th/8th Grade TA Monday-Friday
One Full-time TEAM TA Monday-Friday

Two Part-time TAs for Extended Care before and/or after school

THE NATIONAL FUTURE FARMERS OF AMERICA WILL VISIT ST. PATRICK’S ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 11^TH– The FFA is providing a mini-zoo for our preschool through 8^th grade students to have a hands-on experience with every kind of farm animal from cattle to kittens. They will be set-up in the parking lot from 10:15 until 2:45.  Students will be rotating throughout the day for approximately 20 minute sessions.  This is a rain or shine event.  All students should come to school with rain jackets or ponchos if weather calls for them.

The National FFA Organization (formerly Future Farmers of America) envisions a future in which all agricultural education students will discover their passion in life and build on that insight to chart the course for their educations, career and personal future.  FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

TUITION ASSISTANCE DEADLINES – Families who feel Tuition Assistance may be necessary for the 2011-2012 school year need to apply for the Archdiocese Children’s Scholarship Fund.  In order to qualify for St. Patrick’s Tuition Assistance, applicants must have first applied for the Children’s Scholarship Fund.  Applications for St. Patrick’s Tuition Assistance will be due by June 1, 2011.  Due to increased demand, and less funding available, deadlines must be adhered to.  All information is kept strictly confidential. Forms may be acquired online at www.stpatselkhorn.org under the “School” tab.  St. Pat’s application is to be filled out prior to printing.  Any questions, please contact our Business Manager, Vicki Payton at the parish office at 289-4289 Ext 1521, or via email at vpayton@stpatselkhorn.org.  Completed forms are to be either emailed back to Vicki or in a sealed envelope to her attention.

DONNA SMITH LEAVING - “Finishing a good book is like leaving a good friend.”-William Feather

That is exactly what I will be doing when I say my goodbyes to those of you here at St. Patrick’s.  I will be leaving at the end of the school year to accept a position at Holy Cross Catholic School as the Administrative Assistant.  While I was in the classroom with the kiddos, everyday was different, every moment was special and I will never forget the wonderful life lessons they taught me.  Not only did my daughter have the most wonderful teachers here at St. Patrick’s but I also was very fortunate to have worked with the greatest group of staff members.  I have been able to meet so many parents and have been amazed by the countless hours of dedication that so many volunteers contribute to our school. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your family for the past 8 years as I will always hold you all very close and dear to my heart.

MR. RIDDER’S RESPONSE - I'm happy for both Donna and Chris.  They will make a great team and Holy Cross is fortunate to have them.  They have both been here for eight years and I'm excited for them and I'm looking forward to seeing all that they will accomplish at Holy Cross.   

FULL-TIME OFFICE ASSISTANT NEEDED – Due to Mrs. Smith’s resignation, we are seeking a person who possesses the following characteristics: caring, flexible, hard-working, and passionate about making a difference for students, a team player, models Christian behavior, as well as strong technology skills. It is not necessary to have a college degree. This job offers comparable salary and benefits. This position is year round and will begin this summer.  Applicants can email Mr. Ridder ridderd@stpatselkhorn.org their application letter and resumé along with, at least two, written references.

ATTENTION 7^TH AND 8^TH GRADERS - Your variety show is May 19th at 6:30pm.   Can you juggle, break boards in half, perform a song, tell jokes?  We want you!  All acts must show us your talent on Monday or Tuesday next week after school. (May 9&10)  There is a sign-up sheet outside the music room.  See Mrs. Ackerman with any questions. 

CALLING FOR FIELD DAY VOLUNTEERS - With the end of the year approaching that means that Field Day is also coming quickly.  If you would like to volunteer and be a station leader this year could you please email Mr. McKenzie (smckenzie@stpatselkhorn.org) and let me know if you are able to help.  On Field Day this year the Kindergarten-2^nd will be going from about 9:20 till 11:00 and the 3rd-5th & 6th-8th will be from 12:30 - 3:00.  Unless the weather doesn't allow it the K-2 & 3-5 Field Day will be at the soccer field just north of St. Patrick’s while the Middle School Field Day will be held at Mount Michael High School on their Football Field.  Thanks for your support.

WHAT'S YOUR TIME WORTH?  SCHOOL SUPPLY KIT ORDERS - Home & School is offering School Supply kits again.  The order forms went home via backpacks with every PreS-7th grade students. Order your student(s)'s school supplies for the 2011-2012 school year; save yourself the hassle of running from store to store to find all the supplies.  All proceeds support 2011-2012 St. Patrick’s Home & School operations like the Parish carnival, Staff Appreciation and Catholic School's Week. Orders must be turned in by May 18^th, 2011.  No need to drag the supplies into school; they will be here for you to pick up at "Back to School" night in August.  Just pick them up and bring them down to your new classrooms(s). Any questions?  Contact Christina Diers at acediers@cox.net.   NOTE – PRES/PREK morning & afternoon assignments will be determined in June so place orders by the preference that you have for your child to attend. If in doubt, order the afternoon list. Sorry for the confusion.

LINK TO SCHOOL SUPPLY KIT ORDER FORM

SISTER SCHOOL T-SHIRT CONTEST - We have supported our sister school, St. Mary’s in Uganda for the last three school years.  We have been able to provide a lunch to the 1300+ students who would normally go without a lunch for the entire school day. We would like to continue this service. Help us to create a new sister school t-shirt for the upcoming school year.  The link for the t-shirt pattern can be found below.  Your design needs to contain a slogan or motto for this school year incorporating our Catholic identity.  All designs are due to the office on/before May 13^th.  The winning design will be announced on May 20^th with a special surprise going to the winner.  

LINK TO SISTER SCHOOL T-SHIRT TEMPLATE

SUMMER SCHOOL REGISTRATION BEGINS - This class is intended to be a brush up to get the students ready for the upcoming school year. Emphasis will be placed on reading, writing, and grammar, as well as the review of math concepts. Parents should register for the grade their child will be entering in the fall of 2011.  The list below tells what teachers will be teaching and to the right you can find a link to their registration form.  Please make checks payable to the teacher.

Ms. McGinty       Kindergarten Summer School Form

Mrs. Kill             1ST Grade Summer School Form

Mrs. Hotovy        2ND Grade Summer School Form

Mrs. Peal           3RD Grade Summer School Form

Mrs. Miller          4TH Grade Summer School Form

Mrs. DeWald      5TH Grade Summer School Form

Mrs Perrault       7TH Grade Language Arts Summer School Form

Mr. Shanle         7TH Grade Math Summer School Form

Information regarding summer school registration for Middle School will be available next week.

UNIFORM PRESALE –Pre-Order Polos NOW for next school year!  The choice is yours.  Midwest Impressions and Educational Outfitters are offering to pre-order polos for pick up in August.  Print off the attached form for the retailer that you choose to use and return it to the school office with attached check by May 15th.

LINK TO EDUCATIONAL OUTFITTERS PRESALE FORM

LINK TO MIDWEST IMPRESSIONS PRESALE ORDER FORM

2010-2011 YEARBOOK ORDERS AVAILABLE - It is time to order your 80 page, full color 2010 - 2011 yearbook.  Orders are due Friday, May 13th.  The yearbooks should be available for pickup in August.  If you have any questions, or any pictures that could be included in this year's yearbook, please contact Victoria Brichacek at stpatsyearbook@hotmail.com. 

LINK TO 2010-2011 YEARBOOK ORDER FORM

All pictures are needed, especially pictures of preschoolers, First Communion, Confirmation, St. Patrick's sponsored sports teams (CYSL or PAL), and special events such as music programs, field trips, classroom visitors, etc. 

There are also a limited number of last year's yearbooks (2009 - 10) available for purchase as well.  Please contact Victoria Brichacek at stpatsyearbook@hotmail.com for details.

BOOK FAIR NEWS - A big Thank You goes out to everyone who was able to attend the Spring Book Fair!!!!  We were very successful this year and proceeds will be used to purchase audio books for the library and classroom needs for our Specials teachers.  Of course, this wouldn't have been possible without our awesome bunch of Home and School volunteers, Jane Chapman and our leader Ms. DeFreece. So Thank you all for your tireless support.  Your Book Fair Committee Co-Chairs -  Lisa Kemp and Staci Witkowski.

VOLLEYBALL REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN - The registration is now open and will close on May 20th.  If you miss this one, your daughter will not be eligible to play and practice over the summer because there will not have a late registration option.  We will open the registration again in the fall for the second mini tryout. If you remember we took a poll last year regarding PAL volleyball. Many of the questions focused on the timing of the tryouts and the season starting.
We have decided to do something a little different this year. Since most of the other PAL teams pick their teams in the spring and then have practices and tournaments over the summer, we have decided to do something similar.  Please pass the word for parents/athletes that didn't play last year. Tryouts will be held sometime in late May. I will follow up with registered players with a note on when and where the tryouts will be.  Remember to sign them up for the grade they will be in NEXT school year.

LINK TO VOLLEYBALL REGISTRATION

Our main change to the process is having 2 tryouts.  If you want to play over the summer, please sign them up by May 20.  In the fall we will have another tryout as we prepare for the PAL season.  The girls have an equal chance of making the top teams as long as they make 1 of the 2 tryouts.  Please call or email Dan Hanus if you have any questions - DQH@COX.NET (402) 763-9199.

VOLLEYBALL COACHES NEEDED - We also continue to look for coaches as we get new coaches come in and out every year.  One other thing I will be doing this year is conducting coaching clinics for anyone who would like to get into coaching but isn't quite comfortable enough yet.  Last year I was also able to attend some practices to help.  Please pass along this information to others that may have been inquiring about PAL volleyball but didn't play last year. Thanks again!  Please send me an email if you have any questions.  Dan Hanus - DQH@COX.NET  

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL REGISTRATION BEGINS - Mark your calendars for June 13th through 17^th 9:00 a.m. to Noon and join us for Vacation Bible School. It is open to children entering kindergarten in the fall of 2011 through children entering 5th grade. 6th grade and up are welcome to volunteer.  Registration for participants and volunteers is on the website at www.stpatselkhorn.org under the Religious Formation tab.

PARISH GROUNDS CLEAN-UP - A second grounds spring clean up is scheduled for Friday, May 13 from 5-8.  Please consider lending a helping hand for an hour or two!  We'll be tending to the boulevards, tree lines and fence perimeters.  Please bring your rakes, shovels, trimmers and wheelbarrows.  If you plan to attend or have questions, please contact Kim Kidder at kkassen@hotmail.com or (402) 980-3065.

SAFE ENVIRONMENT TRAINING – There will be an initial Safe Environment Training class on Wednesday, May 18^th, 2011 from 6:30 – 8:30pm.  As required by the Archdiocese of Omaha, it is mandatory for all staff and volunteers that work around our children in the school and parish to take this class. If a volunteer or staff member does not complete this training, they will be unable to serve in any capacity around children. To view this policy or see other training dates go to http://www.archomaha.org/pastoral/se/.  This applies to all parish and school organizations such as athletics, scouts, Home & School, lunchroom volunteers, etc. To register for the May 18^th training at St. Patrick’s, email Beth Kathol at bkathol@stpatselkhorn.org.

HEART MINISTRY PLANT SALE BENEFIT - The Heart Ministry Center serves the Northwest Omaha community with food, clothing and medical care.  St. Patrick's community was so generous in donating more than 1,000 pairs of shoes to the Heart Ministry Center!  Please consider supporting this wonderful Catholic organization by buying your annuals or perennials from the Sacred Heart Plant Sale.  The sale is located at 90th and Center and is being held Thursday, May 5th through Saturday May 14th from 9am-8pm and Sunday May 15th from 1:00pm-6:00pm.

Principal's Notes Deadline:

Please submit all items/information in final form.

Principal's Notes deadline is Tuesday by 8:00am to the school or email to

ridderd@stpatselkhorn.org or kmoritz@stpatselkhorn.org

Archived Principal's Notes