Monday, May 23, 2011

Newsletter - May 23, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

It does not feel like the last week of school for me.  When I speak with some of the students, they tell me that they want to stay longer.  I believe that speaks strongly of the quality environment that St. Paul Lutheran Church and School provides.  It has been an honor serving as your eighth grade teacher and I see a bright future in each of your lives.  May God bless you as you transition to high school next year.  Please keep in touch and visit us whenever you wish!

This week St. Paul Lutheran Church and School is celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week.  We begin today with a special lunch for the teachers.  We are also honoring Mrs. Karle with an assembly as she concludes her teaching career.  She has inspired children for 25 years and we pray for her as she starts a new chapter in her life.

The yearbook will be available for pick-up during the summer.  We could not distribute the yearbook any earlier or else the fourth quarter events (i.e. graduation, fun day, etc.) would be left out.  It will be in color and the yearbook committee is pleased with how it is turning out.  The price for the yearbook will be about $30-$35.  You may purchase your copy in advance with the office.

Please let me know about your child's plans for school next year.  I am happy to hear about five acceptances to IB!  If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

We continue assisting Japan with the devastation resulting from the earthquake and tsunami with your chapel offerings.  Please keep them in your prayers as they strive to rebuild and reestablish their country.

Upcoming Events
Fun Day - 5/26
Awards Assembly - 5/26, 2 P.M.
Graduation & Reception - 5/26, 7 P.M.

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Monday, May 16, 2011

Newsletter - May 16, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

The yearbook will be available for pick-up during the summer.  We could not distribute the yearbook any earlier or else the fourth quarter events (i.e. graduation, fun day, etc.) would be left out.  It will be in color and the yearbook committee is pleased with how it is turning out.  The price for the yearbook will be about $30-$35.  We will have more information as it becomes available.

Please let me know about your child's plans for school next year.  I am happy to hear about four acceptances to IB!  If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

I met with seventh grade parents on Friday regarding graduation plans.  In the past the tradition has been for the seventh grade families to host the graduation reception.  We are excited about the plans we have for this event, so that it is a special evening for the graduates.  Thank you for sending several pictures to Mr. Jim Schmidt for the slide show for graduation night.

We continue assisting Japan with the devastation resulting from the earthquake and tsunami with your chapel offerings.  Please keep them in your prayers as they strive to rebuild and reestablish their country.

Upcoming Events
Washington D.C. Trip - 5/12 - 5/17
No School (8th only) - 5/18
Salad Bar & Ice Cream Day - 5/19
Return Library Books - 5/20
Fun Day - 5/26
Awards Assembly - 5/26, 2 P.M.
Graduation & Reception - 5/26, 7 P.M.

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Saturday, May 7, 2011

Newsletter - May 9, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

Students should be studying for their algebra end-of-course exam which is scheduled for Wednesday, May 11 at 10:30 A.M. - 11:30 A.M.  The test is timed (60 minutes) so familiarity with concepts is extremely important.  Each student has sets of problems and answers to measure their degree of success in each objective.  "Practice makes perfect."

The students leave for Washington D.C. on Thursday.  I went on a similar trip with the youth group at my church when I was sixteen years old.  This is a great opportunity to learn about our country and to close the year in fellowship.  Blessings on your travel!

Please let me know about your child's plans for school next year.  I am happy to hear about four acceptances to IB!  If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

If you would like to be involved with planning the eighth grade graduation, please let me know.  Thank you for sending several pictures to Mr. Jim Schmidt for the slide show for graduation night.

We continue assisting Japan with the devastation resulting from the earthquake and tsunami with your chapel offerings.  Please keep them in your prayers as they strive to rebuild and reestablish their country.

We are looking for a parent to help us represent St. Paul Lutheran Church & School at an expo by the McAllen Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, May 12.  Please contact Mrs. Rodriguez (Director of Recruitment & Promotions) at 956-682-2345 if you are able to assist in this capacity.

Upcoming Events
Athletic Banquet - 5/10, 6 P.M.
Washington D.C. Trip - 5/12 - 5/17
No School (8th only) - 5/18
Salad Bar & Ice Cream Day - 5/19
Return Library Books - 5/20
Fun Day - 5/26
Awards Assembly - 5/26, 2 P.M.
Graduation & Reception - 5/26, 7 P.M.

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Algebra End-of-Course Exam

The Algebra End-of-Course Exam is scheduled for Wednesday, May 11 at 10:30 A.M. - 11:30 A.M.

Monday, May 2, 2011

Newsletter - May 2, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

We have Spring Program practices scheduled for this week.  Dress rehearsal is Wednesday at 8:30 A.M. and you are welcome to attend so that you may capture these precious moments on camera.  We look forward to seeing everyone at the performance on May 5 by 6:30 P.M.

Students should be studying for their algebra end-of-course exam.  The test is timed so familiarity with concepts is extremely important.  Each student has sets of problems and answers to measure their degree of success in each objective.  "Practice makes perfect."

Please let me know about your child's plans for school next year.  I am happy to hear about four acceptances to IB!  If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

If you would like to be involved with planning the eighth grade graduation, please let me know.  Thank you for sending several pictures to Mr. Jim Schmidt for the slide show for graduation night.

We continue assisting Japan with the devastation resulting from the earthquake and tsunami with your chapel offerings.  Please keep them in your prayers as they strive to rebuild and reestablish their country.

We are looking for a parent to help us represent St. Paul Lutheran Church & School at an expo by the McAllen Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, May 12.  Please contact Mrs. Rodriguez (Director of Recruitment) at 956-682-2345  if you are able to assist in this capacity.

Upcoming Events
Spring Musical - 5/5, 7 P.M., Gym
Athletic Banquet - 5/10, 6 P.M.
Washington D.C. Trip - 5/12 - 5/17
No School (8th only) - 5/18

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Newsletter - April 25, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

The middle school is planning to join together in an Alleluia party on Tuesday.  Eighth grade is being asked to provide a fruit tray.  This should be a great time of fellowship among the students!

We have Spring Program practices scheduled for today and in the latter part of the week.  The students have been preparing well to make this event a success.  We look forward to seeing everyone at the performance on May 5.

Students should be studying for their algebra end-of-course exam.  The test is timed so familiarity with concepts is extremely important.  Each student has sets of problems and answers to measure their degree of success in each objective.  "Practice makes perfect."

Please let me know about your child's plans for school next year.  I am happy to hear about four acceptances to IB!  If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

If you would like to be involved with planning the eighth grade graduation, please let me know.  You may send several pictures to Mr. Jim Schmidt by the end of April so we can prepare a slide show for graduation night.  Either drop off at the office or e-mail busmgr@stpaulmcallen.org

Please remember that chapel is on Tuesday this week.  We close the month with our chapel offerings going towards assisting Japan with the devastation resulting from the earthquake and tsunami.  Please keep them in your prayers as they strive to rebuild and reestablish their country.

Upcoming Events
Mid-Quarter Report Issued - 4/27
Spirit Day - 4/29

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Newsletter - April 18, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

Our family was blessed with the addition of Jaden Marie Pena on Tuesday, April 12.  Thank you to everyone for your support and wonderful gifts during this special time in our lives.  Jaden is doing great and Jessica is enjoying being a big sister.

We will be recognizing the students that won ribbons at Concordia Field Day on Tuesday at 2:30 P.M.  Please join us as we celebrate the achievements of the children.  We are very proud of their efforts!

Chapel is scheduled for Thursday at 9:00 A.M.  There will be no classes on Friday, but there will be classes on Monday as it is a scheduled make-up day for earlier this year.

Students should be studying for their algebra end-of-course exam.  The test is timed so familiarity with concepts is extremely important.  Each student has sets of problems and answers to measure their degree of success in each objective.  "Practice makes perfect."

Please let me know about your child's plans for school next year.  I enjoy hearing about acceptance to schools such as IB.  If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

If you would like to be involved with planning the eighth grade graduation, please let me know.  You may send several pictures to Mr. Jim Schmidt by the end of April so we can prepare a slide show for graduation night.  Either drop off at the office or e-mail busmgr@stpaulmcallen.org

Enjoy the Easter holiday with your family and friends!

Upcoming Events
No School - 4/22
Mid-Quarter Report Issued - 4/27

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Newsletter - April 11, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

Concordia Field Day was an excellent time for fellowship and we had over 40 ribbons!  Thank you to all the parents and adults that assisted with the trip.  This is an excellent experience and the students did a fabulous job representing St. Paul Lutheran Church and School.

There is no school on Monday, April 11.  School will resume on Tuesday as we proceed with the Stanford Achievement Test (SAT).  Please avoid scheduled appointments or other matters that may disrupt the administration of the test.  Be sure to eat a good breakfast, get plenty of sleep, and have your pencils sharpened!

Students should be studying for their algebra end-of-course exam.  Often during SAT testing students finish portions of the test early, so they have time to work on items in the various subjects.  Eighth grade students should use this time to prepare for the algebra examination.  Additionally, students should be studying each day so that the information is fresh in their minds.  The test is timed so familiarity with concepts is extremely important.  Each student has sets of problems and answers to measure their degree of success in each objective.  "Practice makes perfect."

Please let me know about your child's plans for school next year.  I enjoy hearing about acceptance to schools such as IB.  If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

If you would like to be involved with planning the eighth grade graduation, please let me know.  You may send several pictures to Mr. Jim Schmidt by the end of April so we can prepare a slide show for graduation night.  Either drop off at the office or e-mail busmgr@stpaulmcallen.org

Upcoming Events
No School - 4/11
Softball Game - 4/12, 4:30 P.M.
Softball Game - 4/14, 4:30 P.M.

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Sunday, April 3, 2011

Newsletter - April 4, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

The Concordia Field Day trip is Thursday!  Please be on time Thursday morning (5:30 A.M.) and do not forget to pack your lunch in a paper sack.  It is helpful to begin packing early in the week so that important items are remembered.  Please do not pack any medication as they need to be given to Mrs. Stephens (nurse for the trip).  This is a wonderful opportunity for fellowship as we travel to compete in academic, athletic, and fine arts events.

There is no school on Monday, April 11.  School will resume on Tuesday as we proceed with the Stanford Achievement Test (SAT).  Be sure to eat a good breakfast, get plenty of sleep, and have your pencils sharpened!

Thank you to all the parents and students that participated in PSIA on Saturday.  St. Paul Academy in Harlingen did an excellent job hosting the event.  I hope your child continues to participate in events like these during their high school years.

Please let me know about your child's plans for school next year.  I enjoy hearing about acceptance to schools such as IB.  If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

Please send several pictures to Mr. Jim Schmidt by the end of April so we can prepare a slide show for graduation night.  Either drop off at the office or e-mail busmgr@stpaulmcallen.org

Upcoming Events
Concordia Trip - 4/7-4/9
No School - 4/11

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Newsletter - March 28, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

The Spring Concordia meeting is scheduled for today at 6:00 P.M.  Please be in attendance to finalize items for the trip such as trip balance payments and signing insurance forms (bring medical insurance numbers).  We look forward to seeing you there!

Softball games are on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  The first game is scheduled on Tuesday, March 29.  Let's go Eagles!

Please let me know about your child's plans for school next year.  I enjoy hearing about acceptance to schools such as IB.  If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

Please send several pictures to Mr. Jim Schmidt by the end of April so we can prepare a slide show for graduation night.  Either drop off at the office or e-mail busmgr@stpaulmcallen.org

Springs for Living Water is our chapel offering for March.  We are sending the offerings with Steven Obst for his ministry in China.

Upcoming Events
Concordia Meeting - Mon., 3/28
Softball Game - Tues., 3/29
PSIA Competition - Sat., 4/2
Concordia Trip - 4/7-4/9

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Newsletter - March 21, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

I hope everyone had a fun and restful Spring Break!  We welcome the final quarter of the school year this week and there are many significant events ahead for eighth grade.  The students should be looking forward to Concordia Field Day in Austin, TX in three weeks, their Washington D.C. field trip, and graduation.

The Spring Concordia meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 28.  Please be in attendance to finalize items for the trip such as trip balance payments and signing insurance forms.  We look forward to seeing you there!

Report cards will be issued on Wednesday.  We will be recognizing third-quarter student achievements on Friday at 2:00 P.M.  On Friday students may wear their activity shirt and jeans in celebration of Spirit Day.

Please let me know about your child's plans for school next year.  I enjoy hearing about acceptance to schools such as IB.  If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

Springs for Living Water is our chapel offering for March.  We are sending the offerings with Steven Obst for his ministry in China.

Upcoming Events
Report Cards issued - Wed., 3/23
Spirit Day - Fri., 3/25
Awards Assembly - Fri., 3/25, 2 P.M.
Concordia Meeting - Mon., 3/28
PSIA Competition - Sat., 4/2

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Sunday, March 6, 2011

Newsletter - March 7, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:


National Lutheran School's Week begins today.  We have plenty of fun, Christ-centered activities planned for the children.  There will be dress up days and competitions during lunch.  The full schedule is available in the classroom so that students can follow each day's events.

The Walk-A-Thon was great!  Thank you to everyone for participating in this event.  What a healthy and fun way to earn money towards the trip!

On Ash Wednesday March 9, the middle school has the opportunity to host the St. Paul evening Lenten meal before the 7 P.M. worship service.  We will receive the proceeds from the dinner to use for the eighth grade class trip to Washington D.C.  If you are able to HELP, please sign up (form on middle school grid) and return the slip as soon as possible.  We are including Grades 6 and 7, as they will be taking this trip in the future and we will try to sponsor this event each year to raise funds.  We will need at least 12 people (students and/or parents) to make this successful.  You and your family can eat the dinner as well – it is a freewill offering – and you are also invited to worship with us at 7 P.M.  Thank you!

Our eighth grade class finished 16th!  Thank you to everyone for reading and testing.  The status of our Accelerated Reader competition with other schools across the nation can be viewed at: http://www.stpaulsjanesville.com/School/2011NationalAcceleratedReaderChallenge/tabid/392/Default.aspx

Springs for Living Water is our chapel offering for March.  We are sending the offerings with Steven Obst for his ministry in China.

Upcoming Events
Lenten Meal - Wed., 3/9, Cafeteria
Open House (Learning Fair) - Thurs., 3/10, 5 - 7 P.M.
Early Dismissal - Fri., 3/11, 11 A.M.

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Newsletter - February 28, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

Our Toast to Texas Day is Wednesday, March 2.  This day marks Texas Independence Day which dates back to 1836.  Many institutions across Texas will be celebrating this day in a variety of ways especially because this will be the 175th Texas Independence Day (for more information:  http://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/us/texas-independence-day).  Eighth grade will be assisting in the event by passing out juice so that students can "toast" to Texas.  Camila and Joseph will be managing the PowerPoint presentation throughout the event.  Eighth grade continues to model great leadership in school events!

The Walk-A-Thon is scheduled for Saturday, March 5.  Forms went home on Friday that indicate we need adult volunteers and items such as Gatorade for the event.  Any help you can provide would be very much appreciated!

On Ash Wednesday March 9, the middle school has the opportunity to host the St. Paul evening Lenten meal before the

Our eighth grade class continues to climb the ranks and we are currently 12th (as of Feb. 22)!  Keep reading and testing!  The status of our Accelerated Reader competition with other schools across the nation can be viewed at: http://www.stpaulsjanesville.com/School/2011NationalAcceleratedReaderChallenge/tabid/392/Default.aspx

Springs for Living Water is our chapel offering for March.  We are sending the offerings with Steven Obst for his ministry in China.

Upcoming Events
CFD Music Auditions - Mon., 2/28, 6 P.M., Cafeteria
Toast to Texas - Wed., 3/2, Gym
Walk-A-Thon - Sat., 3/5, 8 A.M. - 12 P.M., St. Paul grounds
Lenten Meal - Wed., 3/9, Cafeteria

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Monday, February 21, 2011

Newsletter - February 22, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

Thank you for helping to make our first annual Winterfest a blast!  We truly appreciate your donations towards the basket, vases, candles, and for volunteering during the shifts for our canister activity.  The strong parental support you continue to display is just one of the many components that make St. Paul Lutheran School successful.

Please join us on Wednesday at 7:00 P.M. for the Tangled Blue concert.  Students that attend with their parent(s) are eligible to register for "Skip School with Mr. Pool."  It should be a fun night of worship!

The status of our Accelerated Reader competition with other schools across the nation can be viewed at:  http://www.stpaulsjanesville.com/School/2011NationalAcceleratedReaderChallenge/tabid/392/Default.aspx  Our eighth grade class continues to climb the ranks and we are currently 18th (as of Feb. 15)!  Keep reading and testing!

Springs for Living Water is our chapel offering for February and March.  We are sending the offerings with Steven Obst for his ministry in China.

Upcoming Events
Soccer Game (home) - Tues., 2/22
Soccer Game (home) - Thurs., 2/24
CFD Music Auditions - Mon., 2/28, 6 P.M., Cafeteria
Walk-A-Thon - Sat., 3/5, 8 A.M. - 12 P.M., St. Paul grounds

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Newsletter - February 14, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

The Winterfest schedule is as follows:

Set Up 11 A.M. - 12 P.M. Steffy & Mrs. Carrillo

12 P.M. - 1 P.M. Steffy & Mrs. Carrillo
1 P.M. - 2 P.M. Camila & Mrs. Savinon
2 P.M. - 3 P.M. Avery & Mrs. Rosalez
3 P.M. - 4 P.M. Joseph Schmidt & Mrs. Schmidt
4 P.M. - 5 P.M. Ricardo Carrera & Mr. Carrera
5 P.M. - 6 P.M. Daniel Carrera & Mrs. Carrera
Clean Up 6 P.M. - 7 P.M.  Carrera Family

We appreciate your donations towards the art/artist basket and for volunteering your time.

The status of our Accelerated Reader competition with other schools across the nation can be viewed at:  http://www.stpaulsjanesville.com/School/2011NationalAcceleratedReaderChallenge/tabid/392/Default.aspx

Springs for Living Water is our chapel offering for February and March.  We are sending the offerings with Steven Obst for his ministry in China.

Upcoming Events
Parent Meeting for Winterfest - Mon., 2/14, 2 P.M., Library
Soccer Season Begins - Thurs., 2/17
No School - Mon., 2/21
CFD Music Auditions - Mon., 2/28, 6 P.M., Cafeteria
Walk-A-Thon - Sat., 3/5, 8 A.M. - 12 P.M., St. Paul grounds

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Newsletter - February 7, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

Please bring money for the book fair this week.  We have a special guest during book fair week!  Author Tom Couser will be at St. Paul on February 9 at 7 P.M.  He will be covering various topics that relate to parenting and peer relationships among children.  I am offering extra credit (replace lowest daily grade in algebra and science with 100%) for parent AND student attendance!  You may read more about him on his blog: http://www.tomcouser.blogspot.com/

Winterfest is scheduled for Saturday, February 19, 12:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.  We are joining seventh grade in the theme basket which is an art basket.  Our game/activity will be creating drink holders with children.  They are clear cylinders in which a paper can be inserted which will serve as decoration.  Mrs. Drefs can use parent volunteers for the construction of the candles and vases.  Please contact us if you are available.

Please turn in another $100 by the end of February for the class trip, and final reservations MUST be made by March 1, as we cannot guarantee airline reservations and hotel space after that date.  There is an excellent opportunity to earn some funds for the D.C. trip by serving a meal at St. Paul before the Ash Wednesday (March 9) Lenten worship service.  Help is needed from 4 - 7 P.M. from students and parents (anyone else you might recruit to help).  We will cook and serve about 150 meals (food will be provided).  Please make a note of this and whether you would be able to volunteer.

Soccer Update
Practices - Monday through Thursday after school until 5:15 P.M.  The student must be picked up by 5:15 P.M.
Games - We hope to have a schedule by next Monday.  They will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  Girls will always play first starting at 4:30 P.M.  We could have our first game on February 17.
Other information - Please make sure your child comes to practice with shin guards, long socks, and a water bottle.  Please watch the weather and dress as needed.  You will be getting billed the sport fee of $35.  You may turn that into the office.  The fee must be turned in before the first game is played.  Also please review the sheet on grade requirements and make sure your child is academically able to compete.  If there are any questions please call Mrs. Romero at 361-815-5125.  Drivers are needed for away games!

Upcoming Events
Parent Meeting for Winterfest - Mon., 2/14, 2 P.M., Library
Soccer Season Begins - Thurs., 2/17
CFD Music Auditions - Mon., 2/28, 6 P.M., Cafeteria
Walk-A-Thon - Sat., 3/5, 8 A.M. - 12 P.M., St. Paul grounds


In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Thursday, February 3, 2011

No School

There will be no school on Friday, February 4.

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Clothing on Cold Days

Mr. Pool is allowing students to wear jeans or long, warm pants if the morning temperature is below 30 degrees fahrenheit.  Please dress warm during the next several days!

Snow Day - Hamilton Lincycomb


Hamilton has the day off!

Amarillo, TX
Brrrrrrr!

Sunday, January 30, 2011

Newsletter - January 31, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

The February theme is "Free to Love."  "My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”  John 15:12

Author Tom Couser will be at St. Paul on February 9 at 7 P.M.  He will be covering various topics that relate to parenting and peer relationships among children.  I am offering extra credit (replace lowest daily grade in algebra and science with 100%) for attendance!  You may read more about him on his blog:  http://www.tomcouser.blogspot.com/

Learning Fair term papers are being composed under the direction of Mr. Pool.  There are numerous deadlines ahead, so please note the important dates.  Excellent topics have been approved and we look forward to seeing these ideas develop.

Winterfest is scheduled for Saturday, February 19, 12:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.  We are joining seventh grade in the theme basket which is an art basket.  Our game/activity will be creating drink holders with children.  They are clear cylinders in which a paper can be inserted which will serve as decoration.  We can use parent volunteers for the construction of the candles and vases.  Please contact us if you are available.

Please let Mr. Pool know of final decisions on the Washington D.C. trip as soon as possible.  There is an excellent opportunity to earn some funds for the trip by serving a meal at St. Paul before the Ash Wednesday (March 9) Lenten worship service.  Help is needed from 4 - 7 P.M. from students and parents (anyone else you might recruit to help).  We will cook and serve about 150 meals (food will be provided).  Please make a note of this and whether you would be able to volunteer.

Upcoming Events
Mid-Quarter Reports Issued - Wed., 2/2
Soccer Parent Meeting - Thurs., 2/3
Winter Texas Orchestra Concert - Fri., 2/4, 2 P.M.
Soccer Season Begins - Thurs., 2/17

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Soccer

Parenting Meeting - Thurs., 2/3, 3:45 P.M., Gym
Season Begins - February 17

Mrs. Romero will be providing more information as it becomes available.

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Newsletter - January 24, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

We are blessed to share in welcoming a bundle of joy for the Alvarez family!  Dr. and Mrs. Alvarez had a baby boy on Saturday evening and we look forward to seeing pictures soon.  Catalina Alvarez will be a wonderful big sister to her little brother!

Learning Fair packets were sent home last week.  Topics should be turned in today so that students may have their idea approved.  We are looking forward to working with the students on their Experimental Science and Theology projects.

Winterfest is scheduled for Saturday, February 19, 12:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.  Our class is being asked to help in three ways:  provide a game for the event, construct a theme basket, and to create a craft.  Please contact me with your ideas so that we can get our choices.  The crafts will include sand vases and decorated candles.  These items will be created with Mrs. Drefs in art class.  We are asking that you bring in vases or jars that are big enough to hold flowers.  Also, we need plain colored candles that are in the shape of a cylinder.  Thank you to everyone that has sent vases and candles so far!  Construction of these projects will begin soon and we could use parent volunteers as well.  We appreciate your assistance with these projects.

Please support our chapel project: Vannie E. Cook Jr. Cancer Foundation.  Learn more about this wonderful organization by visiting: http://www.vanniecook.org/

Please support the middle school and youth of St. Paul Lutheran Church & School by dining at Chili's (521 E. Nolana St. in McAllen) on Sundays in January.  You must present the flyer (see image at the end of Jan. 5 newsletter) so that our school can receive credit.  This is an excellent opportunity to raise funds for the Concordia Field Trip and support the youth of the church.  Sunday marks our final opportunity for the Chili's fundraiser, so let's have a great turnout!

Upcoming Events
Mr. Pena Study Hall/Detention - Thurs., 1/27, 3:30 P.M.-4:15 P.M., 8th Grade Rm.

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Newsletter - January 17, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

Winterfest is scheduled for Saturday, February 19, 12:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.  Our class is being asked to help in three ways:  provide a game for the event, construct a theme basket, and to create a craft.  Please contact me with your ideas so that we can get our choices.  The crafts will include sand vases and decorated candles.  These items will be created with Mrs. Drefs in art class.  We are asking that you bring in vases or jars that are big enough to hold flowers.  Also, we need plain colored candles that are in the shape of a cylinder.  Thank you to everyone that has sent vases and candles so far!  Construction of these projects will begin soon and we could use parent volunteers as well.  We appreciate your assistance with these projects.

Please support our chapel project: Vannie E. Cook Jr. Cancer Foundation.  Learn more about this wonderful organization by visiting: http://www.vanniecook.org/

Please support the middle school and youth of St. Paul Lutheran Church & School by dining at Chili's (521 E. Nolana St. in McAllen) on Sundays in January.  You must present the flyer (see image at the end of Jan. 5 newsletter) so that our school can receive credit.  This is an excellent opportunity to raise funds for the Concordia Field Trip and support the youth of the church.

Upcoming Events
Spelling Bee - Thurs., 1/20, 1:00 P.M., Church
Mr. Pena Study Hall/Detention - Thurs., 1/20, 3:30 P.M.-4:15 P.M., 8th Grade Rm.

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Sunday, January 9, 2011

Newsletter - January 10, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

Welcome back to the first full week of school!  Please be sure to note deadlines for high school applications as some are in January.  Check with your children regarding school supplies and other materials because some may need replenishing after the first half of the year.

Our school theme for January is "Free to Shine."  "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and give glory to your Father in Heaven."  Matt. 5:16

Please support the middle school and youth of St. Paul Lutheran Church & School by dining at Chili's (521 E. Nolana St. in McAllen) on Sundays in January.  You must present the flyer (see image at the end of Jan. 5 newsletter) so that our school can receive credit.  This is an excellent opportunity to raise funds for the Concordia Field Trip and support the youth of the church.

Winterfest is scheduled for Saturday, February 19, 12:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.  Our class is being asked to help in three ways:  provide a game for the event, construct a theme basket, and to create a craft.  Please contact me with your ideas so that we can get our choices.  The crafts will include sand vases and decorated candles.  These items will be created with Mrs. Drefs in art class.  We are asking that you bring in vases or jars that are big enough to hold flowers.  Also, we need plain colored candles that are in the shape of a cylinder.  Construction of these projects will begin soon and we could use parent volunteers as well.  We appreciate your assistance with these projects.

Tickets have been ordered for the Washington D.C. trip for those who have turned in deposits.  Please turn in yours A.S.A.P. if you have not so that everyone can have the same flight and arrangements.  All flight arrangements should be final by February 1 so that trip planning can continue.  Parents wishing to join should be registered by then.  Thank you.

Please support our chapel project:  Vannie E. Cook Jr. Cancer Foundation.  Learn more about this wonderful organization by visiting: http://www.vanniecook.org/

Upcoming Events
Basketball Games - Mon., 1/10 and Wed., 1/12
Winterfest Meeting - Wed., 1/12, 2:00 P.M., Mr. Pool's Office
McAllen IB High School Rep., Fri., 9:45 A.M.
Geography Bee - Fri., 1/14, 1:00 P.M., Church
Spelling Bee - Thurs., 1/20, 1:00 P.M.

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Newsletter - January 5, 2011

Dear Parents and Students:

Please support the middle school and youth of St. Paul Lutheran Church & School by dining at Chili's (521 E. Nolana St. in McAllen) on Sundays in January.  You must present the flyer (see image at the end of this newsletter) so that our school can receive credit.  This is an excellent opportunity to raise funds for the Concordia Field Trip and support the youth of the church.

Winterfest is scheduled for Saturday, February 19, 12:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.  Our class is being asked to help in three ways:  provide a game for the event, construct a theme basket, and to create a craft.  Please contact me with your ideas so that we can get our choices.  The crafts will include sand vases and decorated candles.  These items will be created with Mrs. Drefs in art class.  We are asking that you bring in vases or jars that are big enough to hold flowers.  Also, we need plain colored candles that are in the shape of a cylinder.  Construction of these projects will begin soon and we could use parent volunteers as well.  We appreciate your assistance with these projects.

Please support our chapel project:  Vannie E. Cook Jr. Cancer Foundation.  Learn more about this wonderful organization by visiting:  http://www.vanniecook.org/

In His Name,

Jesus T. Pena, M.Ed.
Eighth Grade Teacher
8thgrade@stpaulmcallen.org