December 2, 2021


Dear STM Families,


My sincere apologies for such a late delivery of Cyclone Chatter this evening.  We were waiting on several COVID test results to be able to share a more complete picture of our current infections at STM.  Instead, I will share that data with you tomorrow after we receive the information from parents.


THIS IS IMPORTANT:  If you know that your child has been exposed to someone who is positive for COVID, it is imperative that you inform us at health@stmcyclones.org
If your child contracts the virus from a contact and attends school, other students and staff members must be contacted and possibly quarantine to stop the spread in our school environment.


I shared this email from our school nurse, Mandy Hodes, this morning, but it’s worth repeating:
Dear STM Families,
We are experiencing a spike in the number of students with a variety of symptoms from colds, flu, strep throat, etc. at school.  Please remember that the policy at STM is that your child should not attend with the following symptoms AND not return until he/she is symptom-free for 24 hours:

• New cough   
• Difficult breathing   
• Loss of taste/smell   
• Fever (equal to or greater than 100 degrees) or chills   
• Sore throat   
• Congestion/runny nose   
• Headache   
• Muscle or body aches   
• Nausea/vomiting/diarrhea 

If you go to the pediatrician and/or test for COVID and want to bring a negative test result/doctor's note, your child can return to school after 24 hours. 




St. Thomas More, pray for us.
Peace & Blessings,
Linda Crosthwait, STM Principal




STM UPCOMING EVENTS:



Friday, Dec. 3
First Friday STM Spirit Day/Red Friday--students may wear jeans, spirit wear bottoms, or uniform bottoms with STM Spirit Wear or Chiefs Spirit Wear

Monday, Dec. 6
2nd Week of Advent Prayer Services:  Grades K-4 at 8 a.m. in Flanagan Hall; Grades 5-8 at 2:45-3:15 p.m. with Eucharistic Adoration in Flanagan Hall

Monday, Dec. 6
STM School Advisory Board meeting 

Tuesday, Dec. 7
St. Nicholas Day Parties from 2:30-3:15 p.m.--Red & Green Dress Down Day!

Tuesday, Dec. 7
All-School Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Outdoor Music Concert (Rain/Snow Date Dec. 13)
See details below.

Wednesday, Dec. 8
Feast of the Immaculate Conception--NO SCHOOL;  Holy Day of Obligation

Thursday, Dec. 9
Reconciliation Services for Grades 3, 5, 8

Friday, Dec. 10
Reconciliation Services for Grades 4, 6, 7

Monday, Dec. 13
3rd Week of Advent Prayer Services:  Grades K-4 at 8 a.m. in Flanagan Hall; Grades 5-8 at 2:45-3:15 p.m. with Eucharistic Adoration in Flanagan Hall

Friday, Dec. 17
4th Week of Advent Prayer Services:  Grades K-4 at 8 a.m. in Flanagan Hall; Grades 5-8 at 2:45-3:15 p.m. with Eucharistic Adoration in Flanagan Hall

Friday, Dec. 17
‘BE KIND’ Day at STM (see details below)

Friday, Dec. 17
Final day of 2nd Quarter;
Christmas Break Dismissal at 3:20 p.m.

Dec. 20-Jan. 3
MERRY CHRISTMAS!! Christmas Break--NO SCHOOL


TOMORROW IS FIRST FRIDAY SPIRIT WEAR/RED FRIDAY:
In observance of First Friday, students and staff may wear jeans, spirit wear bottoms, or uniform bottoms with STM (ONLY STM--not other schools) or Chiefs Spirit Wear.  It’s our last First Friday of 2021!




HOLIDAY MUSIC CONCERT ON TUESDAY, DEC. 7:


Please bundle up in your holiday hats & mittens and plan to join us for the STM Outdoor Holiday Music Concert on Tuesday, Dec.7 beginning at 6 p.m.  The festivities will take place outside the front of the church where there will be band and singing performances involving all PK-8th grade STM students.  A highlight of the evening will be the Tree Lighting Ceremony with Fr. Justin flipping the switch at 6:30 p.m.  Plans are being finalized for an opportunity to purchase hot chocolate, as well.


Here is the order of performances AND the arrival and drop-off location details for each grade level/group:

1. Preschool and Kindergarten:  Arrive by 5:50 p.m. to the risers in front of church to perform at 6:00 p.m.
2. Grades 1 and 2:  Arrive by 5:50 p.m. to "The Peak" (located in the parking lot just to the west of the front doors of church) to line up and then perform at 6:05-6:10 p.m. in front of church
3. 5th Grade Band:  Arrive by 5:30 p.m. to set up in the Narthex to perform beginning at 6:15 p.m. in the Narthex
4. 5th Grade:  Arrive by 6:00 p.m. to "The Peak" to line up and then perform for the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:25 or 6:30 p.m. in front of church
5. 6th, 7th & 8th Grade Band:  Arrive by 5:30 p.m. to set up and warm-up in the Narthex before your performance at 6:35 or 6:40 p.m.
6. Grades 3 and 4:  Arrive by 6:30 to "The Peak" to line up and then perform at 6:45 or 6:50 p.m. in front of church
7. Grade 6:  Arrive by 6:30 to "The Peak" to line up and then perform at 7:00 in front of church
8. Grade 7:  Arrive by 6:35 to "The Peak" to line up and then perform at 7:05 or 7:10 in front of church
9. Grade 8:  Arrive by 6:45 to "The Peak" to line up and then perform at 7:15 in front of church

HOME & SCHOOL MESSAGE ABOUT HOLIDAY MUSIC CONCERT:
Come enjoy some Christmas Cheer during our Holiday Music Program.  Home and School will be sponsoring a Cookies and Creamery Holiday Cocoa Truck and will be selling hot cocoa and cookies all evening long!  CASH and CHECK preferred!!  All proceeds go back to STM!!  And remember we are looking for volunteers to help make this ALL school event a success!  Sign up below and let us know when you can help out!!  Thank you for your support!!


https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c094aabac2fabff2-holiday


PAROCHIAL LEAGUE BASKETBALL MASKING INFORMATION from VINCE FITZGERALD, PLKC DIRECTOR:
Listed below is the Parochial League Board Statement regarding Covid 19.  
Parochial League Board Statement Effective Dec 1, 2021 – Basketball 2021-2022
 On games days the players sitting on the bench must wear a mask. Players on the court have an option of wearing a mask or not. Individual gyms may impose more stringent guidelines; in which case the gyms protocols will supersede.
 In regard to spectators, there are no longer any restrictions to the number of spectators allowed, but masks are required by spectators in all PLKC gyms.


NOTE from TIM WARIS, STM ATHLETIC DIRECTOR:
Masks are optional at STM during play.




BLACK FRIDAY AUCTION DEALS ENDING!:


DON’T MISS OUT!  STM Auction Black Friday Specials extended just until Saturday!  Go to www.stmauction.org before bidding closes this Saturday.


‘BE KIND’ DAY ON DECEMBER 17:


STM will celebrate ‘Be Kind’ Day on our final day before Christmas Break, Friday, Dec. 17.  Besides a focus on kind acts and friendship that day, students may wear a ‘Be Kind’ t-shirt with uniform bottoms that day (or a regular uniform top).  Information about purchasing a ‘Be Kind’ t-shirt can be found on the attachment below.  A $5 donation will be accepted for STM For All.


GO CYCLONE BASKETBALL TEAMS!


Come cheer on your 7th grade basketball teams while supporting the 8th Grade Graduation Fund this weekend at St Thomas More!
7th-A Girls:
Friday 7:30pm
Saturday 5:00pm
Sunday 1:00pm
7th-A Boys:
Friday 5:30pm
Saturday 3:00pm
Sunday 3:00pm


STM CHOIR INFORMATION:
DECEMBER 7 - STM School Concert 6:00 pm
Entire school involved.
DECEMBER 12 - 11:00 am Mass                                                          
Please meet Mrs. Parisi in the Choir Loft by 10:30am to get ready for Mass. Please email me if your child is unable to attend.
DECEMBER 17 - -South Patrol Christmas Celebration
Meet at 6:15 pm…more info. to come soon.
DECEMBER 25:  Christmas Morning Mass-10:00 am Mass
Meet Mrs. Parisi at 9:30 am in the choir loft


ATTENTION 7TH & 8TH GRADE PARENTS:
7th & 8th graders are invited to a mixer hosted by the Parent Club at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic High School! Join us for a Flannel & Friends mixer from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, December 4. A minimum of 2 parent chaperones are required from each school for schools to participate. Space is limited, so register now! All registration must be online. To register CLICK HERE. 
8th graders: Sign up for the High School Placement Test (HSPT) on December 11 at St. Michael the Archangel. FREE HSPT Prep Class on November 30 for those who take the test at SMA. This is a required test to be accepted to St. Michael. Click HERE to register. 


PARENT ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL MASS:
Parents are welcome to attend school Mass.  Seating in the sanctuary is limited, so please feel free to sit in the choir loft if there’s no empty pews.
Our students attend Mass each week at 2:10 p.m. on the following days:
Wednesdays:  Kindergarten, grades 2, 7, 8
Thursdays:  Grades 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 & rotating weeks for PK
Please let me know if you have any questions.
YOUR INPUT REGARDING MASKING POLICY:
The STM School Advisory Board agenda for Monday’s meeting will include your questions and input about the masking policy change shared in Cyclone Chatter on Nov. 18.  If you would like to ask questions or share your thoughts, please use this link to submit before the end of the weekend:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScKpT8Y1HdmgFBhvB1zlgSsw8-QDfSIHaMdzGPdLEWn_tykfw/viewform?usp=sf_link 


Fr. Justin, our COVID Task Force and School Advisory Board members, along with our administrative and nursing staff members will utilize your input to construct a FAQ and guidelines before our return to school on Jan. 4.


Please ask your child to share about our Advent Prayer Service last Monday.  We will continue to prepare for the coming of Baby Jesus, our Lord, at Christmas for the next two Mondays and again on Friday, Dec. 17.
Following is a prayer you can share with your family for the 2nd Sunday in Advent:

November 23, 2021


Dear STM Families,
We have just a few tidbits of information to share, so I am happy to take this extra opportunity to share my heartfelt thanks to each of you who prayerfully support the STM School staff in our work with your children.
May God bless you and your families richly and deeply!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
Linda Crosthwait, STM Principal


STM WINTER SPIRIT WEAR SALE EXTENDED!
You asked for it and we are making it happen--the STM Winter Spirit Wear sale is extended to Monday, Nov. 29.  Order forms were sent home in backpacks today, so be sure to get those back to school on the day we return from Thanksgiving Break--Monday, Nov. 29.
STM CHOIR INFO:
Dec.1st-Martin City Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Please come dressed for the weather with a little Christmas cheer! We will meet next to the Post Office parking lot in front of the KC Running building at 5:30pm. Please take note that this is a different location then years past. The kids will start singing approximately 5:45pm with a 6:00pm end time when they turn on the tree. Please email me if your child is unable to attend.


BLACK FRIDAY AUCTION ITEMS:
 Get the first shot at some HOT STM Auction items!!
Shop from the warmth and comfort of your home from the STM Black Friday Auction items.  Check out all of the details in the flyer attached below.

November 11, 2021


Dear STM Families,
After much prayer and thoughtful consideration, the decision has been made that St. Thomas More School will be mask-optional beginning Tuesday, Jan. 4, the first day of our second semester of the school year.
The mask mandate issued by the city of Kansas City, MO for all schools will expire on Dec. 2, but STM will maintain our current masking policy through Dec. 17, the last day of the first semester.
​For those families who choose to vaccinate children older than 5 for COVID-19, you are able to make appointments for the shots and allow for full-vaccination protocols before Jan. 4.  Masks will remain an option for all.
We will work through the details of this change in our protocols during the next month following the guidance of the KCMO Health Department. Information will be shared with you as it becomes available.  Please know that as this fluid situation evolves, there could be a need to re-mask at a later date.
I can only imagine that you will have questions and concerns regarding this change in our policy.  Please share your constructive and courteous input by using the following link:


https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScKpT8Y1HdmgFBhvB1zlgSsw8-QDfSIHaMdzGPdLEWn_tykfw/viewform?usp=sf_link 


Fr. Justin, our COVID Task Force and School Advisory Board members, along with our administrative and nursing staff members will utilize your input to construct a FAQ and guidelines before our return to school on Jan. 4.


St. Thomas More, pray for us.


Peace & Blessings,
Linda Crosthwait, STM Principal




STM UPCOMING EVENTS:


Thursday, Nov. 18
2nd Grade--First Reconciliation:
Mrs. Spiller’s class at 6:00 p.m.
Ms. Sarcone’s class at 6:45 p.m.
Mrs. Anwander’s class at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 20
NOTE: DATE CHANGE
Booster Club Pickleball Tournament at Blue Hills Country Club--see the attached flyer for more details!

Wednesday, Nov. 24-         Friday, Nov. 26
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!  NO SCHOOL!

Tuesday, Dec. 7
St. Nicholas Day Parties from 2:30-3:15 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 7
All-School Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Outdoor Music Concert (Rain/Snow Date Dec. 13)

Wednesday, Dec. 8
Feast of the Immaculate Conception--NO SCHOOL;  Holy Day of Obligation

Thursday, Dec. 9
Reconciliation Services for Grades 3, 5, 8

Friday, Dec. 10
Reconciliation Services for Grades 4, 6, 7

Friday, Dec. 17
Christmas Break Dismissal at 3:20 p.m.

Dec. 20-Jan. 3
MERRY CHRISTMAS!! Christmas Break--NO SCHOOL




FIRST RECONCILIATION FOR 2ND GRADERS TONIGHT:


Congratulations to our 2nd Graders who will receive the sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time this evening!  Please pray for these students and the teachers who prepare them in this important step towards their First Holy Communion in the spring.




HOLIDAY MUSIC CONCERT ON TUESDAY, DEC. 7:


Please bundle up in your holiday hats & mittens and plan to join us for the STM Outdoor Holiday Music Concert on Tuesday, Dec.7 beginning at 6 p.m.  The festivities will take place outside the front of the church where there will be band and singing performances involving all PK-8th grade STM students.  A highlight of the evening will be the Tree Lighting Ceremony with Fr. Justin flipping the switch at 6:30 p.m.  Plans are being finalized for an opportunity to purchase hot chocolate, as well.


Here is the order of performances AND the arrival and drop-off location details for each grade level/group:

1. Preschool and Kindergarten:  Arrive by 5:50 p.m. to the risers in front of church to perform at 6:00 p.m.
2. Grades 1 and 2:  Arrive by 5:50 p.m. to "The Peak" (located in the parking lot just to the west of the front doors of church) to line up and then perform at 6:05-6:10 p.m. in front of church
3. 5th Grade Band:  Arrive by 5:30 p.m. to set up in the Narthex to perform beginning at 6:15 p.m. in the Narthex
4. 5th Grade:  Arrive by 6:00 p.m. to "The Peak" to line up and then perform for the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:25 or 6:30 p.m. in front of church
5. 6th, 7th & 8th Grade Band:  Arrive by 5:30 p.m. to set up and warm-up in the Narthex before your performance at 6:35 or 6:40 p.m.
6. Grades 3 and 4:  Arrive by 6:30 to "The Peak" to line up and then perform at 6:45 or 6:50 p.m. in front of church
7. Grade 6:  Arrive by 6:30 to "The Peak" to line up and then perform at 7:00 in front of church
8. Grade 7:  Arrive by 6:35 to "The Peak" to line up and then perform at 7:05 or 7:10 in front of church
9. Grade 8:  Arrive by 6:45 to "The Peak" to line up and then perform at 7:15 in front of church

WINTER SPIRIT WEAR SALE:


TAKE A LOOK and place your order by this TUESDAY, Nov. 23.  Please note that delivery of some items may be in 2022.  We are not able to guarantee delivery prior to Dec. 25.  See the flyer below for details.


BLACK FRIDAY AUCTION ITEMS:


Get the first shot at some HOT STM Auction items!!
Shop from the warmth and comfort of your home from the STM Black Friday Auction items.  Check out all of the details in the flyer attached below.


TOMORROW-FRIDAY, 11/19--FINAL DAY FOR BASKETBALL SPIRITWEAR:


Don’t miss this chance to purchase your own STM Spirit Wear for the basketball season.  TOMORROW IS THE LAST DAY TO ORDER!  See the attached flyer below.


STM UNIFORM CHANGE:
Beginning Jan. 4, all students are able to wear white, light blue, red, or HUNTER GREEN polo shirts with no insignias as part of our STM uniform.  There is no change in the style of shirts that can be worn or any other part of the uniform.
Please let me know if you have questions.


HAT?  COAT?  MITTENS?


Does your child arrive at school adequately dressed for the wintery weather?  Please keep in mind that the weather can quickly change and our students go outside every day.  We have seen students on these recent chilly days without a coat or other warm attire for recess, travelling to church, or other outdoor activities.  Thanks for your help!




STM CHOIR TO PERFORM AT MARTIN CITY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY ON WEDNESDAY, DEC. 1:
Please come dressed for the weather with a little Christmas cheer! We will meet next to the Post Office parking lot in front of the KC Running building at 5:30pm. Please take note that this is a different location than years past. The kids will start singing approximately 5:45pm with a 6:00pm end time when they turn on the tree. Please email me if your child is unable to attend.
Also, choir families should mark the calendar for December 17th @6:30-6:45pm when our choir will be caroling the South Patrol KCPD Family Event.


ATTENTION 7TH & 8TH GRADE PARENTS:
7th & 8th graders are invited to a mixer hosted by the Parent Club at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic High School! Join us for a Flannel & Friends mixer from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, December 4. A minimum of 2 parent chaperones are required from each school for schools to participate. Space is limited, so register now! All registration must be online. To register CLICK HERE. 
8th graders: Sign up for the High School Placement Test (HSPT) on December 11 at St. Michael the Archangel. FREE HSPT Prep Class on November 30 for those who take the test at SMA. This is a required test to be accepted to St. Michael. Click HERE to register. 


PARENT ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL MASS:
Parents are welcome to attend school Mass.  Seating in the sanctuary is limited, so please feel free to sit in the choir loft if there’s no empty pews.
Our students attend Mass each week at 2:10 p.m. on the following days:
Wednesdays:  Kindergarten, grades 2, 7, 8
Thursdays:  Grades 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 & rotating weeks for PK
Please let me know if you have any questions.





COVID-RELATED INFORMATION: 
         STM COVID DASHBOARD:     Week ending 11/4/21        Week ending 11/11/21            Week ending 11/18/21
Students in quarantine                                      3                                               2                                                    6
Staff members in quarantine                            0                                               0                                                    0
Students in isolation                                           0                                              0                                                     2
Staff members in isolation                                0                                              1                                                     0
Percentage of attendance                               96%                                         97%                                              96%
Total # of Student COVID cases this school year:  16  
Total # of Staff cases this school year:  2   
If your child has tested positive for COVID, and STM was not notified, please email Health@stmcyclones.org with the date of the positive test.    
We appreciate you partnering with us on school days to verify that every child is fever-free and not experiencing:   

• New cough   
• Difficult breathing   
• Loss of taste/smell   
• Fever (equal to or greater than 100 degrees) or chills   
• Sore throat   
• Congestion/runny nose   
• Headache   
• Muscle or body aches   
• Nausea/vomiting/diarrhea   

If your child has any of these symptoms, they should not attend school. Notify the STM Health Room of any symptoms or exposure to COVID-19 by calling 816-942-5581 or email health@stmcyclones.org 


STM NIGHT--AVILA UNIVERSITY MEN’S BASKETBALL:
Avila Men’s Basketball program is hosting a Saint Thomas More Day on Saturday, 11/27 vs Oklahoma Wesleyan University.  Game time is 5 p.m. at the Mabee Fieldhouse on the Avila campus.
All parents and STM kids that wear an STM item (sweatshirt, T-shirt or basketball uniform, spirit wear) will be allowed into the game for free. The first 25 STM kids in the door get a free bag of popcorn. 


HAPPY THANKSGIVING!  WE ARE THANKFUL FOR YOU!!!
Our entire St. Thomas More School staff would like to take this time to share our gratitude with each of you for sharing your most precious gifts--your children--with us. We know that we are certainly blessed to work in partnership with you to build the path to eternal paradise for His children.
We wish you and your family a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!
Following is a prayer you might share as a family:
Father in Heaven, Creator of all and source of all goodness and love, please look kindly upon us and receive our heartfelt gratitude in this time of giving thanks.
Thank you for all the graces and blessings. You have bestowed upon us, spiritual and temporal: our faith and religious heritage. Our food and shelter, our health, the love we have for one another, our family and friends.
Dear Father, in Your infinite generosity, please grant us continued graces and blessing throughout the coming year.
This we ask in the Name of Jesus, Your Son and our Brother. 
Amen.

black_friday_flyer_2021.pdf
stm_order_form_holiday_2021_final__281_29.pdf
​basketball_spirit_wear.pdf

November 11, 2021


Dear STM Families,


Happy Veterans Day to all of you who currently serve or who have served our country in the U.S. Armed Forces.  While we did not plan a formal ceremony at STM, we have honored our veterans through prayer on this day.


My father was a WWII veteran who along with our mom taught my six siblings and me that our citizenship in the United States of America was a true gift that should be respected and celebrated.  His service in the Army took him from his family’s farm home in southern Missouri to the battlegrounds of the Philippines and Japan.  He carried shrapnel for the rest of his life from battle experiences.  He loved serving his country!  I know that he has interceded for all veterans today.


As we celebrate Veterans Day, let us pray for all of our loved ones, living and deceased, who have served our country.  Let us always honor them with the respect and dignity they deserve.  May their examples inspire us and help us to serve not only our country but one another!


Peace & Blessings,
Linda Crosthwait, STM Principal




STM UPCOMING EVENTS:


Friday, Nov. 12
STM Dine-Out Afternoon at Cookies & Creamery

Saturday, Nov. 13
BMA Mouse Races in More Hall!  Join the Fun!  See the attached flyer below for details.

Tuesday, Nov. 16
COVID Task Force Meeting from 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 17
Home & School Meeting 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 17
School Advisory Board Meeting from 6:30-7:30 pm.

Thursday, Nov. 18
2nd Grade--First Reconciliation:
Mrs. Spiller’s class at 6:00 p.m.
Ms. Sarcone’s class at 6:45 p.m.
Mrs. Anwander’s class at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 20
NOTE: DATE CHANGE
Booster Club Pickleball Tournament at Blue Hills Country Club--see the attached flyer for more details!

Wednesday, Nov. 24-         Friday, Nov. 26
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!  NO SCHOOL!

Tuesday, Dec. 7
St. Nicholas Day Parties from 2:30-3:15 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 7
All-School Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Outdoor Music Concert (Rain/Snow Date Dec. 13)

Wednesday, Dec. 8
Feast of the Immaculate Conception--NO SCHOOL;  Holy Day of Obligation

Thursday, Dec. 9
Reconciliation Services for Grades 3, 5, 8

Friday, Dec. 10
Reconciliation Services for Grades 4, 6, 7

Friday, Dec. 17
Christmas Break Dismissal at 3:20 p.m.

Dec. 20-Jan. 3
MERRY CHRISTMAS!! Christmas Break--NO SCHOOL


ATTENTION 6TH, 7TH & 8TH GRADE PARENTS:
 Honor Roll Certificates were distributed to 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students today.  Please find below how we determine the recipients of these awards for exemplary grades.
 How Honor Roll is Determined:
- Students must have an A average (93% or higher).
- The Honor Roll parameters have been programmed into Sycamore to reflect the weight of the grades in Core and Specials classes.
- Core classes are weighted two and a half times greater than Specials classes reflecting the average time spent in the classes.
If your child received a certificate, please know that they worked hard to achieve this distinction.  Congratulations are definitely in order for him/her.  Give yourself a pat on the back, too! 
ANOTHER NOTE:  All 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students have been asked to carry their backpacks as they travel from class to class WITH THEIR NEW LAPTOPS.  We have already had one cracked screen from a student dropping it on the stairs.  Please remind your child to take extra care with their device and to always carry it in a backpack--and not in their arms while changing classes.


HAT?  COAT?  MITTENS? 
Does your child arrive at school adequately dressed for the wintery weather?  Please keep in mind that the weather can quickly change and our students go outside every day.  We have seen students on these recent chilly days without a coat or other warm attire for recess, travelling to church, or other outdoor activities.  Thanks for your help!


STM CHOIR NEWS:
SAVE THE DATE FOR OUR CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING MUSIC PROGRAM:
Please save the date!  St. Thomas More will be hosting our first ALL-SCHOOL STM Tree Lighting Ceremony on Tuesday, December 7, 2021!  (Rain/Snow date:  Dec. 13) Start time to be announced.  This is going to be an outdoor school-wide function.  All students PreK-8th grade will be performing.  Details regarding that evening's event will be coming in the near future.  We are searching for all of our Hallmark lovers to help make this a special time for all.  Please contact Cheryl Parisi (parisi_cheryl@stmcyclones.org) or Laura Mullin (mullin_laura@stmcyclones.org) as soon as possible if you are willing and able to help in any capacity - planning, set-up, decorating, etc.  It will be a wonderful evening sharing in the joy and splendor of Jesus' birth! 
November 10th-Martin City Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony-
POST-PONED due to Inclement weather…the new date is Dec. 1st
Please come dressed for the weather with a little Christmas cheer! We will meet next to the Post Office parking lot in front of the KC Running building at 5:30pm. Please take note that this is a different location then years past. The kids will start singing approximately 5:45pm with a 6:00pm end time when they turn on the tree. Please email me if your child is unable to attend.
November 14th-11:00am Mass                            
Please meet Mrs. Parisi in the Choir Loft by 10:30am to get ready for Mass. Please email me if your child is unable to attend.
November 16th-NO CHOIR PRACTICE
December 17th @6:30-6:45pm
Caroling South Patrol KCPD Family Event


ATTENTION 7TH & 8TH GRADE PARENTS:
7th & 8th graders are invited to a mixer hosted by the Parent Club at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic High School! Join us for a Flannel & Friends mixer from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, December 4. A minimum of 2 parent chaperones are required from each school for schools to participate. Space is limited, so register now! All registration must be online. To register CLICK HERE. 
8th graders: Sign up for the High School Placement Test (HSPT) on December 11 at St. Michael the Archangel. FREE HSPT Prep Class on November 30 for those who take the test at SMA. This is a required test to be accepted to St. Michael. Click HERE to register. 


PARENT ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL MASS:
Our students are back to serving at Mass and serving as lectors at our school liturgical celebrations.  Seats are limited in the pews, but if your child is serving or lectoring, please feel free to come to Mass and sit in the choir loft or the cry room.
Our students attend Mass each week at 2:10 p.m. on the following days:
Wednesdays:  Kindergarten, grades 2, 7, 8
Thursdays:  Grades 1, 3, 4, 5, 6
Please let me know if you have any questions.





COVID-RELATED INFORMATION:
STM COVID DASHBOARD: 
 Week ending 10/21/21
Week ending 11/4/21
Week ending 11/11/21

Students in quarantine
1
3
2

Staff members in quarantine
0
0
0

Students in isolation
1
0
0

Staff members in isolation
0
0
1

Percentage of attendance
96%
96%
97%
Total # of Student COVID cases this school year:  16  
Total # of Staff cases this school year:  1   
If your child has tested positive for COVID, and STM was not notified, please email Health@stmcyclones.org with the date of the positive test.    
We appreciate you partnering with us on school days to verify that every child is fever-free and not experiencing:   

• New cough   
• Difficult breathing   
• Loss of taste/smell   
• Fever (equal to or greater than 100 degrees) or chills   
• Sore throat   
• Congestion/runny nose   
• Headache   
• Muscle or body aches   
• Nausea/vomiting/diarrhea   

If your child has any of these symptoms, they should not attend school. Notify the STM Health Room of any symptoms or exposure to COVID-19 by calling 816-942-5581 or email health@stmcyclones.org 


STM NIGHT--AVILA UNIVERSITY MEN’S BASKETBALL:
Avila Men’s Basketball program is hosting a Saint Thomas More Day on Saturday, 11/27 vs Oklahoma Wesleyan University.  Game time is 5 p.m. at the Mabee Fieldhouse on the Avila campus.
All parents and STM kids that wear an STM item (sweatshirt, T-shirt or basketball uniform, spirit wear) will be allowed into the game for free. The first 25 STM kids in the door get a free bag of popcorn. 


Following is a prayer you might share with your family to honor our veterans:
VETERANS DAY PRAYER
Dear Lord, 
Today we honor our veterans, 
worthy men and women 
who gave their best 
when they were called upon to serve and protect their country. 


We pray that you will bless them, Lord, 
for their unselfish service
in the continual struggle 
to preserve our freedom, our safety, 
and our country’s heritage, for all of us.
 
Bless them abundantly. 
for the hardships they faced, 
for the sacrifices they made,
for their many different contributions
to America’s victories
over tyranny and oppression. 


We respect them, we thank them, 
we honor them,
we are proud of them 
and we pray that you will watch over
these special people 
and bless them with peace and happiness. 
In Jesus’ name we pray – Amen.

November 4, 2021


Dear STM Families, 
I was lucky enough to attend the STM Trunk or Treat event for the first time last Sunday in our school parking lot with my husband, Mike, and our 3-year old granddaughter, Rory.  It was such a beautiful day and such a flurry of fun with our little one.  What struck both my husband and me the most, though, was the feeling of FAMILY as we worked our way through the hustle and bustle of happy and excited children amongst the caring and light-hearted adults.  Our school community reverberates the joy of our Catholic faith and the fact that God dwells and acts in us! 
As Pope Francis says, “The Church is not a refuge for sad people.  The Church is a house of joy.”  You exemplify the joy of our Church by sending your children to a school where they can experience prayer and faithfulness to His message in every aspect of their education lives.  I see you sharing His love through your tender care of these children and by your time and effort to volunteer and share in our school’s mission. 
During this month of thanksgiving, please know that you are in my daily prayers for sharing this joy with me and our STM community. 
Peace & Blessings,
Linda Crosthwait, STM Principal


STM UPCOMING EVENTS:
Friday, Nov. 5
First Friday--STM Spirit Wear Day

Friday, Nov. 5
Parents--Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet at 3:00 p.m. in church entryway before dismissal

Sunday, Nov. 7
FALL BACK--set your clocks back one hour as Daylight Savings Time ends

Tuesday, Nov. 9
STM Dine-Out Night at Papa John’s

Friday, Nov. 12
STM Dine-Out Afternoon at Cookies & Creamery

Saturday, Nov. 13
BMA Mouse Races

Tuesday, Nov. 16
COVID Task Force Meeting from 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 17
School Advisory Board Meeting from 6:30-7:30 pm.

Thursday, Nov. 18
2nd Grade--First Reconciliation:
Mrs. Spiller’s class at 6:00 p.m.
Ms. Sarcone’s class at 6:45 p.m.
Mrs. Anwander’s class at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 20
NOTE: DATE CHANGE
Booster Club Pickleball Tournament at Blue Hills Country Club--see the attached flyer for more details!

Wednesday, Nov. 24-         Friday, Nov. 26
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!  NO SCHOOL!

Tuesday, Dec. 7
St. Nicholas Day Parties from 2:30-3:15 p.m.
STM Christmas Tree Lighting Program (time TBD)

Wednesday, Dec. 8
Feast of the Immaculate Conception--NO SCHOOL

Friday, Dec. 17
Christmas Break Dismissal at 3:20 p.m.

Dec. 20-Jan. 3
MERRY CHRISTMAS!! Christmas Break--NO SCHOOL


STM FIRST FRIDAY SPIRIT WEAR DAY TOMORROW:
Tomorrow is the First Friday in November!  Students may wear a STM Spirit Wear shirt tomorrow with jeans, khaki pants, Spirit Wear shorts, or uniform bottoms.


THANK YOU TO OUR HOME & SCHOOL PARENTS:
We feel so spoiled by your generous and delicious meals during Student Learning Conferences last week.  The food from Dos de Oros was a warm welcoming treat for dinner on Thursday night.  We then returned on Friday morning to an awesome array of breakfast treats on Friday morning.  Thank you so much for your time, effort, and care for our teachers and staff!


HAT?  COAT?  MITTENS? 
Does your child arrive at school adequately dressed for the wintery weather?  Please keep in mind that the weather can quickly change and our students go outside every day.  We have seen students on these recent chilly days without a coat or other warm attire for recess, travelling to church, or other outdoor activities.  Thanks for your help!


SAVE THE DATE FOR OUR CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING MUSIC PROGRAM:
Please save the date!  St. Thomas More will be hosting our first ALL-SCHOOL STM Tree Lighting Ceremony on Tuesday, December 7, 2021!  Start time to be announced.  This is going to be an outdoor school-wide function.  All students PreK-8th grade will be performing.  Details regarding that evening's event will be coming in the near future.  We are searching for all of our Hallmark lovers to help make this a special time for all.  Please contact Cheryl Parisi (parisi_cheryl@stmcyclones.org) or Laura Mullin (mullin_laura@stmcyclones.org) as soon as possible if you are willing and able to help in any capacity - planning, set-up, decorating, etc.  It will be a wonderful evening sharing in the joy and splendor of Jesus' birth! 
PARENT ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL MASS:
Our students are back to serving at Mass and serving as lectors at our school liturgical celebrations.  Seats are limited in the pews, but if your child is serving or lectoring, please feel free to come to Mass and sit in the choir loft or the cry room.
Our students attend Mass each week at 2:10 p.m. on the following days:
Wednesdays:  Kindergarten, grades 2, 7, 8
Thursdays:  Grades 1, 3, 4, 5, 6
Please let me know if you have any questions.


BRICKS 4 KIDS--SESSION 2 SIGN-UPS:
Bricks 4 Kidz® enrichment classes are designed to be educational and FUN! We teach children principles of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) utilizing motorized LEGO® models. Every lesson is unique and designed to engage a child's mind. Class size is limited. Students will receive a mini-fig with enrollment. For Grades 1-5. NEW Models Every Session! 
St. Thomas More LEGO® Club Wednesdays after school from 3:25 - 4:25pm 
Dates: Nov.10,17 Dec.1,8,15 
Enroll Now www.bricks4kidz.com/kcnorth  Tuition: $68.00 5 week Session
See attached flyer.


COVID-RELATED INFORMATION     STM COVID DASHBOARD:     Week ending 10/14/21      Week ending 10/21/21      Week ending 10/28/21
Students in quarantine                                                                                                2                                              1                                                3
Staff members in quarantine                                                                                     0                                               0                                                0
Students in isolation                                                                                                    0                                               1                                                0
Staff members in isolation                                                                                          0                                               0                                                0

Percentage of attendance                                                                                       97%                                           96%                                         96%

Total # of Student COVID cases this school year:  16  
Total # of Staff cases this school year:  1   
If your child has tested positive for COVID, and STM was not notified, please email Health@stmcyclones.org with the date of the positive test.    
We appreciate you partnering with us on school days to verify that every child is fever-free and not experiencing:   

• New cough   
• Difficult breathing   
• Loss of taste/smell   
• Fever (equal to or greater than 100 degrees) or chills   
• Sore throat   
• Congestion/runny nose   
• Headache   
• Muscle or body aches   
• Nausea/vomiting/diarrhea   

If your child has any of these symptoms, they should not attend school. Notify the STM Health Room of any symptoms or exposure to COVID-19 by calling 816-942-5581 or email health@stmcyclones.org 


STM NIGHT--AVILA UNIVERSITY MEN’S BASKETBALL:
Avila Men’s Basketball program is hosting a Saint Thomas More Day on Saturday, 11/27 vs Oklahoma Wesleyan University.  Game time is 5 p.m. at the Mabee Fieldhouse on the Avila campus.
All parents and STM kids that wear an STM item (sweatshirt, T-shirt or basketball uniform, spirit wear) will be allowed into the game for free. The first 25 STM kids in the door get a free bag of popcorn. 




We are told that Catholics should pray for the dead throughout the year, especially on the anniversary of a loved one’s death. ... It's a comforting thought for many, and one that encourages many Catholics, especially during the month of November, to offer their prayers for the Holy Souls.  Following is a prayer you might consider praying with your family:


 DAILY PRAYER FOR THE HOLY SOULS:
Immortal God, holy Lord,
Father and Protector of all You have created,
we raise our hearts to You today for those
who have passed out of this mortal life.


In Your loving mercy, Father of all,
be pleased to receive them in Your heavenly company,
and forgive the failings and faults
they may have done from human frailty.


Your only Son, Christ, our Saviour,
suffered so cruelly that
He might deliver them from the second death.
By his merits may they share in the glory
of His victory over sin and death.


For all the faithful who have died we pray,
but in particular for those dear to us,
parents, relatives and friends.
nor do we forget all who did good to us while on earth,
who helped us by their prayers, sacrifice and example.
We pray also for any who may have done us harm,
and stand in special need of Your forgiveness.


May the merits and prayers of our Virgin Mother,
Mary, and those of all the Angels and Saints,
speak for us and assist them now.
This we ask in Christ's name.


Amen.

October 28, 2021


Dear STM Families,
It’s wonderful to see so many parents joining with our teachers tonight (and scheduled for tomorrow) to discuss the progress and challenges in our classrooms.  It is through a true partnership of home, church, and school that our children will flourish.  We know that it can be challenging to keep all the partners working in harmony, but it is a challenge we must never abandon because the result of failure is a weakening of our faith community.
Though parents can now access grades and other resources online, so much more is gained through the time spent between teachers and parents.  The conversations shared during these conferences help to build stronger relationships between these people who spend large amounts of time with your child(ren) and you.
Thank you for sharing your most precious gifts from God with us and for partnering with us in their growth, development, and education. 
Peace & Blessings,
Linda Crosthwait, STM Principal


STM UPCOMING EVENTS:
Friday, Oct. 29
NO SCHOOL for students 
Parent/Teacher Conferences

Monday, Nov. 1
NO SCHOOL--All Saints’ Day 

Friday, Nov. 5
First Friday--STM Spirit Wear Day

Friday, Nov. 5
Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet at 3:00 p.m. in church entryway before dismissal

Tuesday, Nov. 9
STM Dine-Out Night at Papa John’s

Friday, Nov. 12
STM Dine-Out Afternoon at Cookies & Creamery

Saturday, Nov. 13
BMA Mouse Races

Thursday, Nov. 18
2nd Grade--First Reconciliation:
Mrs. Spiller’s class at 6:00 p.m.
Ms. Sarcone’s class at 6:45 p.m.
Mrs. Anwander’s class at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 20
NOTE: DATE CHANGE
Booster Club Pickleball Tournament at Blue Hills Country Club--see the attached flyer for more details!

Wednesday, Nov. 24-         Friday, Nov. 26
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!  NO SCHOOL!

Tuesday, Dec. 7
St. Nicholas Day Parties

Wednesday, Dec. 8
Feast of the Immaculate Conception--NO SCHOOL

Friday, Dec. 17
Christmas Break Dismissal at 3:20 p.m.

Dec. 20-Jan. 4
Christmas Break--NO SCHOOL
  
TRUNK OR TREAT IS RESCHEDULED FOR SUNDAY AFTERNOON!
OUR RAIN-OUT MAKE-UP DATE FOR TRUNK OR TREAT IS Sunday, October 31 3pm-4:15pm.  We will ask all those hosting trunks to be in the parking lot by 2:45pm.  We will have no movement from 3pm-4:15pm. 
Please plan to join STM Home and School for some spooky fun beginning at 3:00 p.m. Sunday in The Peak Parking lot!!  Admission to the event is one non-perishable item for Harvesters per candy grabber!  NEW THIS YEAR!  Plan on a treat with Kona Ice!!
We still need volunteers to host a trunk and to help at our event.  Please see the sign-up genius below.
As a reminder, students in grades 6 and higher can get service hours for volunteering.  However, we do still need some adult volunteers.
Hosting a trunk is easy!!  Arrive at the parking lot no later than 2:45 p.m. and show us your stuff!  Simply hand out candy or make your trunk super spooky and win a prize!! Donated candy will be provided to trunks throughout the event to keep the fun going.  
Sign up now:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c094aabac2fabff2-stmtrunk
**THANK YOU to everyone who has donated candy as we’ve had a great response!  


CUB SCOUTS MAY WEAR UNIFORM SHIRTS ON MEETING DAYS:
STM Cub Scouts may wear their uniform shirts on meeting dates.  Below are the dates through the end of December for 2nd-5th graders.  We will share the dates for 1st graders as soon as the dates are chosen.
11/4 - 2nd grade
11/8 - 4th and 5th grade
11/15 - 5th grade
11/23 - 1st through 5th grades
12/2 - 2nd grade
12/6 - 4th grade
12/20 - 4th grade


PARENT ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL MASS:
Our students are back to serving at Mass and serving as lectors at our school liturgical celebrations.  Seats are limited in the pews, but if your child is serving or lectoring, please feel free to come to Mass and sit in the choir loft or the cry room.
Our students attend Mass each week at 2:10 p.m. on the following days:
Wednesdays:  Kindergarten, grades 2, 7, 8
Thursdays:  Grades 1, 3, 4, 5, 6
Please let me know if you have any questions.


A MESSAGE FROM OUR STM BOOSTER CLUB:
Cyclones Partners and Parents-  
First of all, we wanted to personally thank everyone for their efforts in selling NFL tickets this year. We have sold over 3,800 tickets, which represents a $12,000 increase in fundraising efforts for the school. In January we will draw one ticket and pay the seller of the ticket $250. Remember tickets can continue to be sold throughout the NFL season and if we get to 4,200 we will draw another $250 winner. 
Second, we wanted to provide an update on uniforms for Volleyball and Basketball. Last year the school purchased new uniforms for Basketball for 7-8th grades and this year we purchased new Volleyball uniforms for 6-8 grade. This represents a $17,000 investment and we want to be able to replace uniforms on a more regular schedule moving forward but to do this we need your help. Additionally, we had a $10,000 investment for football uniforms and gear this year as well. Here is the official ask of all parents:

• Have a uniform that is not from this season that was not returned? That’s ok and we want them back so we can inventory what is currently in stock and determine what needs to be updated/purchased.
• For the new uniforms that were just purchased. This was a major investment for the school so please take care of them and only wear them for games or to school on game day when allowed by the school administration. Last year we had several new basketball uniforms have to be replaced because of stains or tears. If something happens to a uniform during a game please let your coach know.
• All uniforms should be cleaned before turning them into coaches at the end of the season

In the future coaches will be provided a sheet with jersey numbers provided to them at uniform checkout. Exchanges for sizes will be handled through the coach and the Booster Club before the season. Uniforms must be turned in to the coach at the end of the season and checked in using the checkout sheet. All uniforms must be returned within 2 weeks from the end of the season. If a uniform is not returned to the coach or is lost a $100 fee will be charged for the uniform replacement to the player assigned the uniform. We do not want to charge anyone for the uniform so please make sure to arrange a time to return the uniform to avoid this fee. Our goal is to continue to replace uniforms for all grade levels and activities and reducing the replacement cost will help with this goal.
Thank you and let’s go Cyclones!
Booster Club President – Ray Clarke
     
DON’T MISS OUT!  5th-6th-7th GRADES GATHERING PARTY INFO: 
Boos & Brews Gathering Party for 5th, 6th, and 7th grade parents:  this Saturday, Oct. 30, from 7-11 p.m.; 12202 Washington Court, Kansas City, MO 64145
Friendly Reminders - Space is limited in cul-de-sac so please park in suggested area, or carpool, uber, or golf cart over!! This event is mostly outside so bundle up and get creative with those costumes. Remember you have to dress up or pay up:) 
Check out the flyer below for all of the details!


COVID-RELATED INFORMATION:

STM COVID DASHBOARD:  Week ending 10/14/21     Week ending 10/21/21      Week ending 10/28/21

Students in quarantine                           0                                                 2                                         1
Staff members in quarantine                0                                                  0                                         0
Students in isolation                               0                                                  0                                         1
Staff members in isolation                     0                                                 0                                          0
Percentage of attendance                    97%                                           97%                                    96
Total # of Student COVID cases this school year:  16  
Total # of Staff cases this school year:  1   
If your child has tested positive for COVID, and STM was not notified, please email Health@stmcyclones.org with the date of the positive test.    
We appreciate you partnering with us on school days to verify that every child is fever-free and not experiencing:   

• New cough   
• Difficult breathing   
• Loss of taste/smell   
• Fever (equal to or greater than 100 degrees) or chills   
• Sore throat   
• Congestion/runny nose   
• Headache   
• Muscle or body aches   
• Nausea/vomiting/diarrhea   

If your child has any of these symptoms, they should not attend school. Notify the STM Health Room of any symptoms or exposure to COVID-19 by calling 816-942-5581 or email health@stmcyclones.org 
COVID Task Force Meeting Notes:


BRICKS 4 KIDS--SESSION 2 SIGN-UPS:
Bricks 4 Kidz® enrichment classes are designed to be educational and FUN! We teach children principles of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) utilizing motorized LEGO® models. Every lesson is unique and designed to engage a child's mind. Class size is limited. Students will receive a mini-fig with enrollment. For Grades 1-5. NEW Models Every Session! 
St. Thomas More LEGO® Club Wednesdays after school from 3:25 - 4:25pm 
Dates: Nov.10,17 Dec.1,8,15 
Enroll Now www.bricks4kidz.com/kcnorth  Tuition: $68.00 5 week Session
See flyer attached.


PAROCHIAL LEAGUE BASKETBALL REGISTRATION CLOSES TOMORROW:
Parochial League Basketball registration is now open  through TOMORROW  for boys and girls IN GRADES 4-8.  Please register at www.PLKC.org.  
The cost is $120.00 for grades 5th-8th grade. 
The cost is $70.00 for 4th grade. 
Here is the schedule for the 4th grade-8th grade girls and boys basketball tryouts for the upcoming 2022 Parochial league season.  Basketball practices can start on 11/8 once all of the teams are decided.     If you have any questions please call Tim Waris at 816-942-2492 or email at Tim@stmkc.com.           
10/31   
4th grade boys   11:00am-12:00pm
5th grade boys   12:00pm-1:00pm
4th grade girls 1:00pm-2:00pm
5th grade girls   2:00pm-3:00pm 
11/7 
6th grade boys  11:00am-12:30pm
7th grade boys  12:30pm-2:00pm
8th grade boys  2:00pm-3:30pm
6th grade girls  3:30pm-5:00pm
7th grade girls  5:00pm-6:30pm
8th grade girls   6:30pm-8:00pm


STM NIGHT--AVILA UNIVERSITY MEN’S BASKETBALL:
Avila Men’s Basketball program is hosting a Saint Thomas More Day on Saturday, 11/27 vs Oklahoma Wesleyan University.  Game time is 5 p.m. at the Mabee Fieldhouse on the Avila campus.
All parents and STM kids that wear an STM item (sweatshirt, T-shirt or basketball uniform, spirit wear) will be allowed into the game for free. The first 25 STM kids in the door get a free bag of popcorn. 


Halloween has become one of the most popular ‘holidays’ in the United States.  Our students have been decorating pumpkins and excitedly sharing their plans for costumes and trick-or-treating through the neighborhoods.  It’s also important for them to understand where the whole concept of “Halloween” originated.
"Hallow" — or holy person — refers to the saints celebrated on All Saints' Day, which is November 1. ... So basically, Halloween is just an old-fashioned way of saying "the night before All Saints' Day" — also called Hallowmas or All Hallows' Day.
Here is a family prayer service you can share in your home to celebrate the religious aspect of this modern-day holiday:
ALL HALLOWS’ EVE-ALL SAINTS HOLY DAY-ALL SOULS DAY PRAYER SERVICE:
READER 1: “Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed for the Lord, your God, is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9) 
READER 2: Saints are our heroes. They may be named on the Church calendar, or they may be our relatives, friends, and acquaintances who have died and moved on beyond this earth with less notoriety. In history, All Hallows’ Eve is the night before All Saints Day. Between the evening of Halloween (which means holy evening), with the costumes, frightening pranks, and parties, is a thin moment in time that connects this scary past with November 1, All Saints’ Day. 
READER 1: On All Saints Day, we honor those who have made it to their heavenly reward. They may have given their life and died for their faith as martyrs. Some may have led a life of prayer and sacrifice. Some may have viewed apparitions or visions and endured torture. In all cases, their love for God was the most important thing in their lives. 
READER 2: Trick-or-treating, begging for food, began in Ireland with soul cakes and a promise to pray for dead family members of the house. Those at the door would sing “a soul cake, a soul cake, have mercy on all Christian souls for a soul cake.” Jack-O-Lanterns came from an old Irish legend about a stingy person named Jack who was too cheap to go to Heaven and too clever to go to the devil. Jack was destined to roam the earth with a lighted pumpkin for a lantern. 
READER 1:  Let us pray: Loving God, the lives of the saints show us how ordinary men and women can live their lives in love for you and for others. Help us to follow their example. 
We make this prayer through Christ our Lord. 
ALL: Amen.

October 21, 2021


Dear STM Families,


First quarter grades are now ‘live’ in Sycamore for your child(ren).  Please take some time tonight or this weekend to review your child’s grades with him/her and sign it electronically.  It’s the perfect time to discuss accomplishments and challenges in each area of their learning.


I truly value the involvement of STM families in all aspects of our school, but especially in your partnership with us in academics.  It is so apparent and appreciated that you care deeply about your child’s education and support the work we do to meet each child ‘where they are’ and push them beyond their expectations.


Following are some tips for discussing grades in your own home:

1. Address the importance of grades early.  This is still relatively the beginning of the school year when you can become aware of any areas or subjects that are a struggle.  
2. Separate the child from the grade.  Even if one or two grades are not the best, be sure to acknowledge the areas that he/she is excelling and share praise.  Getting to the root of an academic problem is the most important conversation you can have with your child and his/her teacher.
3. Ask questions.  Be mindful not to talk too much in the conversation with your child.  Let him/her explain and then ask more open-ended questions.  This is a great way to see and understand their emerging skills, talents, and interests.
4. TALK TO THE TEACHER.  This is a great segway to encourage you to be sure to sign up for a Parent/Teacher Conference for next week. The teacher’s input can shed valuable light on emotional, behavioral, and academic development.
5. Continue to reinforce good study skills at home, too.  Following are some checklist items for structured study times at home:

• Set up a study area with no distractions for an appropriate amount of time for your child’s age on a consistent basis.
• Check your child’s organizational skills. Work with his/her teacher to come up with the best plan to help your child develop responsibility for assignments, projects, and preparing for tests.
• Limit time on electronics.
• Be careful not to overschedule your child with extracurricular activities.
• Celebrate accomplishments--small and large!

Peace & Blessings,
Linda Crosthwait, STM Principal


STM UPCOMING EVENTS:


TODAY
First Quarter Grades posted in Sycamore

TOMORROW!
FIRE Week:  90’s decade day! $5 donation is suggested.

Wednesday, Oct. 27
PINK DAY to support the Jessica Kelsey Scholarship Fund.  For all students and staff.  $5 donation suggested. Expect more details early next week!

Wednesday, Oct. 27
Trunk or Treat

Thursday & Friday, Oct. 28 & 29
Parent-Teacher Conferences (see info below)
½ day for students on Oct. 28
NO SCHOOL for students on Oct. 29

Monday, Nov. 1
NO SCHOOL--Teacher PD Day

Saturday, Nov. 13
BMA Mouse Races

Thursday, Nov. 18
2nd Grade--First Reconciliation

Saturday, Nov. 20
NOTE: DATE CHANGE
Booster Club Pickleball Tournament at Blue Hills Country Club--see the attached flyer for more details!


iMPORTANT INFO ABOUT PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES:


Mark your calendars now for our Fall Parent-Teacher Conferences on the afternoon & evening of Thursday, Oct. 28 and the morning of Friday, Oct. 29.  


- Please watch this short 6 min. on how to access, maintain, and view your conferences video https://vimeo.com/239022319/606fd35f23
- You'll need to login on a desktop version of Sycamore - NOT a mobile device.
- Need to change/edit your times?  To change/edit your times contact the office or the homeroom teacher.
- Want a Zoom conference? Please email the homeroom teacher with the request after you scheduled your conferences, so they can set up a zoom link for you.
- Want a conference with other teachers? Email that teacher directly with times you're available, so they can add you to their schedule.


Times:
- Thurs., Oct. 28th: 1:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
- Fri., Oct. 29th: 7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.


Details:
- Sign up through Sycamore through Tues., Oct. 26th
- 15-minute conference time slots
- You will ONLY be given the option to sign up with the homeroom teacher
- You can request conferences with other teachers by emailing those teachers directly; the teacher can add the parent into their schedule on Sycamore; teachers can always request conferences with students outside of their homeroom
- You will be directed to email the teacher if you would like the conference to be on Zoom; the teacher will reply with the Zoom link information 


Changes to Your Conference Schedule:
- You will only have access to sign up for conferences through Sycamore once; if you need to change the time, you will need to email Colleen or the teacher to have it switched.


TRUNK OR TREAT IS NEXT WEDNESDAY!
Trunk or Treat is approaching quickly!  On Wednesday, October 27, please plan to join STM Home and School for some spooky fun beginning at 5:30 p.m. in The Peak Parking lot!!  Admission to the event is one non-perishable item for Harvesters per candy grabber!  NEW THIS YEAR!  Plan on dinner and a treat with The Big Red Food Truck KC and Kona Ice!!
We still need volunteers to host a trunk and to help at our event.  Please see the sign-up genius below.
As a reminder, students in grades 6 and higher can get service hours for volunteering.  However, we do still need some adult volunteers.
Hosting a trunk is easy!!  Arrive at the parking lot no later than 5:20 p.m. and show us your stuff!  Simply hand out candy or make your trunk super spooky and win a prize!! Donated candy will be provided to trunks throughout the event to keep the fun going.  See the attached flyer for all of the details.
Sign up now:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c094aabac2fabff2-stmtrunk
**THANK YOU to everyone who has donated candy as we’ve had a great response!  The basket for donation will be by Amy’s desk until Tuesday, Oct 26th.  Please consider donating!!


FIRE WEEK INFO--OCT. 18-22:
Friday 10/22 -90’s decade day! This year we celebrate 25 years of FIRE - wear your 90’s outfit to celebrate the decade FIRE began. Make it fun! But please be sure it's school-appropriate. $5 donation is suggested.
PARTY BUS TO THE FIRE BALL ON SATURDAY:
It’s your last chance to sign up for the party bus we are taking to FIRE Ball this year.


The party bus is totally free, all you have to do is buy a ticket for FIRE Ball and let us know that you’d like to ride with us.  Drinks and a good time are included during the ride


       When:      Saturday, October 23
                          6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.


       Where:    The party bus will pick us up at STM and return us to STM


       Why:       To support an amazing cause and have a fun evening as well!


You can buy your tickets to FIRE Ball here:


http://firefoundation.org/fireball-2021/


We hope you can join us in supporting inclusive education in our school and in other schools throughout our diocese.


For any questions, or to sign up for the party bus, contact Chris Gaughan at Chris@MidwestEstatePlan.com or 816.786.4439.


PARENT ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL MASS:
Our students are back to serving at Mass and serving as lectors at our school liturgical celebrations.  Seats are limited in the pews, but if your child is serving or lectoring, please feel free to come to Mass and sit in the choir loft or the cry room.
Our students attend Mass each week at 2:10 p.m. on the following days:
Wednesdays:  Kindergarten, grades 2, 7, 8
Thursdays:  Grades 1, 3, 4, 5, 6
Please let me know if you have any questions.


A MESSAGE FROM OUR STM BOOSTER CLUB:


Cyclones Partners and Parents- 


First of all, we wanted to personally thank everyone for their efforts in selling NFL tickets this year. We have sold over 3,800 tickets, which represents a $12,000 increase in fundraising efforts for the school. In January we will draw one ticket and pay the seller of the ticket $250. Remember tickets can continue to be sold throughout the NFL season and if we get to 4,200 we will draw another $250 winner. 
Second, we wanted to provide an update on uniforms for Volleyball and Basketball. Last year the school purchased new uniforms for Basketball for 7-8th grades and this year we purchased new Volleyball uniforms for 6-8 grade. This represents a $17,000 investment and we want to be able to replace uniforms on a more regular schedule moving forward but to do this we need your help. Additionally, we had a $10,000 investment for football uniforms and gear this year as well. Here is the official ask of all parents:

• Have a uniform that is not from this season that was not returned? That’s ok and we want them back so we can inventory what is currently in stock and determine what needs to be updated/purchased.
• For the new uniforms that were just purchased. This was a major investment for the school so please take care of them and only wear them for games or to school on game day when allowed by the school administration. Last year we had several new basketball uniforms have to be replaced because of stains or tears. If something happens to a uniform during a game please let your coach know.
• All uniforms should be cleaned before turning them into coaches at the end of the season

In the future coaches will be provided a sheet with jersey numbers provided to them at uniform checkout. Exchanges for sizes will be handled through the coach and the Booster Club before the season. Uniforms must be turned in to the coach at the end of the season and checked in using the checkout sheet. All uniforms must be returned within 2 weeks from the end of the season. If a uniform is not returned to the coach or is lost a $100 fee will be charged for the uniform replacement to the player assigned the uniform. We do not want to charge anyone for the uniform so please make sure to arrange a time to return the uniform to avoid this fee. Our goal is to continue to replace uniforms for all grade levels and activities and reducing the replacement cost will help with this goal.
Thank you and let’s go Cyclones!
Booster Club President – Ray Clarke


    
DON’T MISS OUT!  GATHERING PARTY INFO: 
Gathering parties are a way for our school to raise money or receive auction items for the annual STM Auction on Feb. 5.  This year's parties that are already booked are listed below.  Invites will be sent home in backpacks closer to your child’s grade level event. 


10/30 - 5th, 6th & 7th


STM GREEN TEAM TRASH PICK-UP:Saturday, October 23, 9am-Noon
The STM Green Team is planning another service project to pick up trash along Blue River Road. We will meet in the parking lot of Children International, located at the northwest corner of Red Bridge and Blue River Roads. The team has made arrangements with the city to pick up the trash collected. Young and old, singles and families are all encouraged to participate in this project. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. This is a great opportunity for students to get service hours! It is recommended that all participants wear long sleeves, jeans, gloves, and protective footwear. Plastic bags will be provided. Please pray for good weather! For more information or to register for this event, contact David Butel at dbutel@stmkc.com or 816-942- 2492 x210 by Wednesday, October 20.




COVID-RELATED INFORMATION:
                   STM COVID DASHBOARD:        Week ending 10/7/21          Week ending 10/14/21           Week ending 10/21/21
                      Students in quarantine                             0                                                 0                                                    2
            Staff members in quarantine                            0                                                  0                                                   0
                         Students in isolation                              0                                                  0                                                   0
                Staff members in isolation                             0                                                  0                                                   0
              Percentage of attendance                             96%                                            97%                                              97
Total # of Student COVID cases this school year:  15  
Total # of Staff cases this school year:  1   
If your child has tested positive for COVID, and STM was not notified, please email Health@stmcyclones.org with the date of the positive test.    
We appreciate you partnering with us on school days to verify that every child is fever-free and not experiencing:   

• New cough   
• Difficult breathing   
• Loss of taste/smell   
• Fever (equal to or greater than 100 degrees) or chills   
• Sore throat   
• Congestion/runny nose   
• Headache   
• Muscle or body aches   
• Nausea/vomiting/diarrhea   

If your child has any of these symptoms, they should not attend school. Notify the STM Health Room of any symptoms or exposure to COVID-19 by calling 816-942-5581 or email health@stmcyclones.org 
COVID Task Force Meeting Notes:
The COVID Task Force met on Tuesday this week.  Our discussions included:

• Test-to-Stay option for STM students.  Nurse Mandy Hodes has investigated the possibility of bringing this to STM.  The KCMO Health Department, though, does not have such a program in practice currently.
• Our abundant stock of disposable masks to share with students who forget one have been depleted to only a few boxes due to the number of students who are showing up at school without one or who do not bring an extra.  Please remember to send your child to school with a mask to start the day and an extra for just-in-case.  We don’t want to have to spend tuition dollars to purchase more.
• The Task Force discussed bringing back ‘changing out’ for PE class in the upper grades.  There were a lot of thoughts on both sides of the topic.  The School Advisory Board also met this week and talked about it.  Linda is going to get with Mrs. Miller, our PE coach, to bring back more information at the meetings next month.

BRICKS 4 KIDS--SESSION 2 SIGN-UPS:
Bricks 4 Kidz® enrichment classes are designed to be educational and FUN! We teach children principles of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) utilizing motorized LEGO® models. Every lesson is unique and designed to engage a child's mind. Class size is limited. Students will receive a mini-fig with enrollment. For Grades 1-5. NEW Models Every Session! 
St. Thomas More LEGO® Club Wednesdays after school from 3:25 - 4:25pm 
Dates: Nov.10,17 Dec.1,8,15 
Enroll Now www.bricks4kidz.com/kcnorth  Tuition: $68.00 5 week Session
See flyer attached.


PAROCHIAL LEAGUE BASKETBALL REGISTRATION:
Parochial League Basketball registration is now open  through 10/29 for boys and girls.  Please register at www.PLKC.org.  
The cost is $120.00 for grades 5th-8th grade. 
The cost is $70.00 for 4th grade. 
Here is the schedule for the 4th grade-8th grade girls and boys basketball tryouts for the upcoming 2022 Parochial league season.  Basketball practices can start on 11/8 once all of the teams are decided.     If you have any questions please call Tim Waris at 816-942-2492 or email at Tim@stmkc.com.          


10/31   
4th grade boys   11:00am-12:00pm
5th grade boys   12:00pm-1:00pm
4th grade girls 1:00pm-2:00pm
5th grade girls   2:00pm-3:00pm
  
11/7 
6th grade boys  11:00am-12:30pm
7th grade boys  12:30pm-2:00pm
8th grade boys  2:00pm-3:30pm
6th grade girls  3:30pm-5:00pm
7th grade girls  5:00pm-6:30pm
8th grade girls   6:30pm-8:00pm


STM NIGHT--AVILA UNIVERSITY MEN’S BASKETBALL:
Avila Men’s Basketball program is hosting a Saint Thomas More Day on Saturday, 11/27 vs Oklahoma Wesleyan University.  Game time is 5 p.m. at the Mabee Fieldhouse on the Avila campus.
 
All parents and STM kids that wear an STM item (sweatshirt, T-shirt or basketball uniform, spirit wear) will be allowed into the game for free. The first 25 STM kids in the door get a free bag of popcorn. 


Because our Catholic devotion for the month of October is the Holy Rosary, I hope you can include this prayer in your daily prayers through this month:


TO THE QUEEN OF THE HOLY ROSARY:
 Queen of the most holy Rosary,  in these times of such brazen impiety, manifest thy power with the signs of thine ancient victories, and from thy throne, whence thou dost dispense pardon and graces, 
mercifully regard the Church of thy Son, His Vicar on earth, and every order of clergy and laity, who are sore oppressed in the mighty conflict. 
Do thou, who art the powerful vanquisher of all heresies, hasten the hour of mercy, even though the hour of God's justice is every day provoked by the countless sins of men. 
For me who am the least of men, kneeling before thee in supplication, do thou obtain the grace I need to live righteously upon earth and to reign among the just in heaven, the while in company with all faithful Christians throughout the world, I salute thee and acclaim thee as Queen of the most holy Rosary:
Queen of the most holy Rosary, pray for us.

October 7, 2021


 OCTOBER IS NATIONAL BULLY PREVENTION MONTH
A Guide for Parents & Students
At St. Thomas More School

It Is Our Responsibility to Stop Bullying:
 
Respect is a basic right
The dignity of human life is at the cornerstone of Catholic social teaching. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops confirms “that every person is precious, that people are more important than things, and that the measure of every institution is whether it threatens or enhances the life and dignity of the human person.”
As Catholics, we are called to respect life and the dignity of the person. In the words of Saint John Paul II, “Life, especially human life, belongs to God; whoever attacks human life attacks God’s very self” (Evangelium vitae). Bullying is an attack on an individual and disrespects life. It damages the person and can lead to devastating consequences. 

What is bullying? What is harassment?
StopBullying.gov defines bullying as unwanted, aggressive behavior that also involves a power imbalance between individuals, and happens more than once. Types of bullying may include physical bullying, verbal bullying, social bullying, and cyber-bullying.
Harassment includes the elements of bullying with the additional component of relating to race, color, national origin, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or other identifying characteristics. Harassment needs only to occur once.
Both bullying and harassment cause a disruption to the victim’s life and can cause fear of harm. Additionally, bullying or harassment can cause children to avoid school, damages self-esteem, causes social and emotional problems, including greater incidences of depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Research also indicates there are lasting effects on the mental health of students who bully which may include substance abuse and domestic violence.
 
What can be done?
The St. Thomas More School handbook, as well as individual teachers, set certain expectations with regard to student behavior. Teachers are vigilant and monitor student interactions throughout the day. However, statistics show that bullying behavior most often occurs during class transitions, in the hallway, cafeteria, and at recess where supervision is less direct. Nonetheless, school personnel will never tolerate any bullying on Diocesan school grounds or at any school-sponsored activity, whether it be on or off school grounds.

Strategies for Students 

• Treat everyone with respect. Catholic social teaching reminds us that we are created in God’s image. 

• 
  
  • Since most bullying happens in the absence of adults, stay close to adults and avoid areas without supervision. 
• 
  
  • If you are being bullied or witness bullying, how you respond can make a difference. Respond as calmly and assertively as you can. 
• 
  
  • Stand up and speak out when someone is being bullied. Do not be a silent bystander. 
• 
  
  • Express disapproval of bullying by not joining in the laughter, teasing, and/or gossip. 
• 
  
  • Seek immediate help from a trusted adult and report bullying or harassment incidents to your teacher, principal or school counselor. Share with them what has happened and ask for their support. 
• 
  
  • Do not retaliate. Fighting back physically or verbally, will only make the situation worse. 

Strategies for Parents
Parents play a key role in the prevention and reduction in the incidence of bullying. Recognize the warning signs, behavioral and emotional changes, that may indicate that your child might be being bullied, is bullying, or is witnessing bullying.
Learn what bullying is and what it is not. Horseplay among peers and conflict among friends is not bullying.
Closely monitor your child’s use of technology, especially social media.
If your child has been bullied:
● Let your child know that he/she is not at fault and did nothing to deserve this behavior.
● Teach your child self-advocacy skills & to be firm in response to bullying.
● Help your child to develop and/or strengthen friendships and interests which are positive and healthy and they enjoy and find success in.
● Encourage peaceful resolutions.
● Work closely with the school to address the problem. Understand the school’s policy on bullying and how they address bullying issues. 

At St. Thomas More School . . .
Students have the right to attend school and learn, unbothered by others. STM takes all reports of harassment and/or bullying seriously. Please report all cases of bullying. Problems cannot be addressed if they are not identified. Your privacy will be fully respected in this process. 


TOMORROW, Friday, Oct. 8
Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet with STM parents at 2:55 p.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 13
1st Grade Field Trip to the Kansas City Zoo

Friday, Oct. 15
NO SCHOOL--Teacher Professional Development Day

Saturday, Oct. 16
Fall Fling--An Outdoor Market from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 18
Picture Re-take Day; Students who need to take or re-take photos have a Dress-Up Day

Wednesday, Oct. 20
School Advisory Board Meeting

Thursday, Oct. 21
DATE CHANGE FOR 7TH GRADE
7th & 8th Grade Field Trip to Auschwitz Exhibit at Union Station; 7th Grade at 9 a.m. & 8th Grade at 11 a.m.

Monday-Friday, Oct. 18-22
FIRE WEEK; see attachment & details below

Wednesday, Oct. 27
Trunk or Treat

Thursday & Friday, Oct. 28 & 29
Parent-Teacher Conferences (see info below)
½ day for students on Oct. 28
NO SCHOOL for students on Oct. 29

Monday, Nov. 1
NO SCHOOL--Teacher PD Day

Saturday, Nov. 13
BMA Mouse Races

Thursday, Nov. 18
2nd Grade--First Reconciliation

Saturday, Nov. 20
NOTE: DATE CHANGE
Booster Club Pickleball Tournament at Blue Hills Country Club


PLEASE HELP YOUR CHILD BE ON TIME FOR SCHOOL:
School starts at 7:50 a.m. with students in their seats and ready to learn. 
From the STM 2021-22 Student Handbook:
“In the case of an appointment or unexpected emergency, parents are asked to call or send a written excuse with the student stating the reason for the tardiness.
o Parents will receive notification of excessive morning or in-school tardiness.
o Excessive morning tardiness will result in disciplinary action. After six tardies in a quarter, the parents will be called by the principal to discuss the situation. Nine or more morning tardies will result in additional measures as determined by the administration.
o All occasions of morning tardiness will be reflected on the report card as part of the student’s permanent record.
o Grades 6th-8th: Students who are late to any class during the school day will be considered tardy. Students who must leave the classroom for forgotten materials will also be considered tardy.”
If your child will not be at school, please email the Absent@stmcyclones.org or Health@stmcyclones.org to report an absence before 8 a.m.  It is important for the office and teachers to know from the very beginning of the school day if a student will not be in attendance.


iMPORTANT INFO ABOUT PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES:
Mark your calendars now for our Fall Parent-Teacher Conferences on the afternoon & evening of Thursday, Oct. 28 and the morning of Friday, Oct. 29.   
You will be able to get on your child’s homeroom teacher’s Sycamore page to make an appointment from Thursday, Oct. 14- Tuesday, Oct. 26 
Times:
- Thurs., Oct. 28th: 1:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
- Fri., Oct. 29th: 7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. 
Details:
- Sign up through Sycamore from Thurs., Oct. 14th - Tues., Oct. 26th
- 15-minute conference time slots
- You will ONLY be given the option to sign up with the homeroom teacher
- You can request conferences with other teachers by emailing those teachers directly; the teacher can add the parent into their schedule on Sycamore; teachers can always request conferences with students outside of their homeroom
- You will be directed to email the teacher if you would like the conference to be on Zoom; the teacher will reply with the Zoom link information  
Changes to Your Conference Time?:
- You will only have access to sign up for conferences through Sycamore once; if you need to change the time, you will need to email Colleen or the teacher to have it switched.


FRIDAY PRAYER OPPORTUNITY:
Parents,
Each Friday at 2:55 pm you are invited to join other parents (and little people) to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet.  There are no required supplies (though a rosary is helpful) and if you have never prayed it, or aren’t sure how to pray it, handouts and guidance will be provided.  What a great way to unite our sufferings and remind us of God’s love and mercy as we enter the weekend!  Remember that meeting your child(ren) in the church or in front of the church is not allowed to keep traffic flowing smoothly and so that others in prayer are not disturbed.  We hope you can join us by praying together on Fridays @ 2:55!


DRESS CODE--BELTS REQUIRED BY NEXT MONDAY:
If your child is wearing slacks or shorts with belt loops at STM, he or she should wear a belt.  I have advised the students that they should ask you to get a belt by Monday, Oct. 11 when we will begin checking for appropriate belting practices and notifying parents of any issues.
Students are not allowed to wear clothing that is not part of the STM uniform. This includes sweaters, sweatshirts and jackets. Winter coats are the exception.  Non-STM uniform sweaters, sweatshirts, or jackets should be removed at the beginning of the school day and kept on coat hooks or in lockers.


IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR 8TH GRADE PARENTS:
The following immunizations are received between ages 11 and 13 years and are required for all 8th grade students. Please check with your health provider for an updated immunization record.
Tdap
 Meningococcal/MCV
If your child has had any updates please send a copy or fax to school no later than October 13th, 2021. (Fax: 816-941-2450)
    
DON’T MISS OUT!  GATHERING PARTY INFO: 
Gathering parties are a way for our school to raise money or receive auction items for the annual STM Auction on Feb. 5.  This year's parties that are already booked are listed below.  Invites will be sent home in backpacks closer to your child’s grade level event. 
10/9 - Preschool & Kindergarten
10/30 - 5th, 6th & 7th


STM GREEN TEAM TRASH PICK-UP:Saturday, October 23, 9am-Noon
The STM Green Team is planning another service project to pick up trash along Blue River Road. We will meet in the parking lot of Children International, located at the northwest corner of Red Bridge and Blue River Roads. The team has made arrangements with the city to pick up the trash collected. Young and old, singles and families are all encouraged to participate in this project. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. This is a great opportunity for students to get service hours! It is recommended that all participants wear long sleeves, jeans, gloves, and protective footwear. Plastic bags will be provided. Please pray for good weather! For more information or to register for this event, contact David Butel at dbutel@stmkc.com or 816-942- 2492 x210 by Wednesday, October 20.


COVID-RELATED INFORMATION:
STM COVID DASHBOARD: 
 Week ending 9/23/21
Week ending 9/30/21
Week ending 10/7/21

Students in quarantine
0
0
0

Staff members in quarantine
0
0
0

Students in isolation
0
0
0

Staff members in isolation
1
0
0

Percentage of attendance
97%
97%
96%


Total # of Student COVID cases this school year:  15  
Total # of Staff cases this school year:  1   
If your child has tested positive for COVID, and STM was not notified, please email Health@stmcyclones.org with the date of the positive test.    
We appreciate you partnering with us on school days to verify that every child is fever-free and not experiencing:   

• New cough   
• Difficult breathing   
• Loss of taste/smell   
• Fever (equal to or greater than 100 degrees) or chills   
• Sore throat   
• Congestion/runny nose   
• Headache   
• Muscle or body aches   
• Nausea/vomiting/diarrhea   

If your child has any of these symptoms, they should not attend school. Notify the STM Health Room of any symptoms or exposure to COVID-19 by calling 816-942-5581 or email health@stmcyclones.org 


FIRE RAFFLE TICKETS DUE ON OCT. 20:
We are excited to participate in the Annual FIREBall Cup raffle contest, a fundraising effort and friendly competition among schools in our diocese to benefit the FIRE Foundation, students with special needs, and support inclusive education.  Each school family will receive 5 tickets to sell. The winning school will be announced on October 21st and will receive a special surprise!  
Contest Rules: 

• Tickets are $10 each. Cash and checks made out to FIRE are accepted. Online sales also available at www.firefoundation.org.

• Please make sure tickets are filled out legibly, with a name, email and phone number for contact purposes. Return to classroom teachers.

• The lucky winner will receive $2.500 in honor of FIRE’s 25th anniversary!

• The drawing will take place at the FIREBall on October 23rd. Winner need not be present to win.

• Weekly announcements will be made updating the school leaderboard standings. 

• Last day to turn in tickets and money is at the end of the school day on Wed, October 20th!

FIRE WEEK INFO--OCT. 18-22:
Monday 10/18 - Multi color Monday! Wear you favorite color shirt to school to celebrate everyone’s differences (Mis-matched socks, silly shirt) $5 donation is suggested
Tuesday 10/19 - Please use the QR code or link to buy a raffle ticket. They are $10 for a chance to win $2500. http://weblink.donorperfect.com/fireballraffle2021 
Wednesday 10/20 -Recess Snack Day. If you would like to donate store bought goods/ snacks please be sure they are individually wrapped and do not include nuts. (Drop off between 10/13 through the morning of 10/20 ) Due to COVID we will not be able to accept homemade goods this year. Students may purchase the snacks during recess for $1 each. Here is the link to a Sign Up Genius for donated snacks:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0F4FA8AB2EA7F58-fire1
Thursday 10/21- All classes will watch grade appropriate videos educating about special needs and being kind to everyone.
Friday 10/22 -90’s decade day! This year we celebrate 25 years of FIRE - wear your 90’s outfit to celebrate the decade FIRE began. Make it fun! But please be sure its school-appropriate. $5 donation is suggested


EARN CASH FOR STM!
Coca-Cola Gives:
We’re excited to share that our school is part of the Coca-Cola Give program. This opens up St. Thomas More to new funding opportunities to help improve learning environments for students. The best part? Donations don’t come out of your own pocket. When you make Coca-Cola purchases, you simply enter the product codes here: coke.com/give/schools (make sure to search for St Thomas More using Zip Code 64131) and our school receives a donation. Help STM make the most of this program and learn more at Coke.com/give.
You may also drop off Bottle Caps or Codes from the inside of Coke product cases at the school office for entry. 


WOO-HOO!  BONUS FOOTBALL RAFFLE DRAWING AT END OF SEASON!
Today we reached the milestone of 3,800 tickets sold!  This means we will pay one person who sold a ticket $250 at the end of the year. A second milestone IS NOT POSSIBLE until all unsold tickets are returned.  PLEASE send those unsold tickets back to the school office.




Following is a prayer that can be prayed for those who, for whatever reason, do not choose kind words or actions towards others.  Let us pray for them together so we can ask God to impact their hearts to reflect His love:
(Based on 1 John 2:9)
God of Love, 
Your word declares that anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness. 
I pray for those who are in the darkness right now, for those who choose to hate over love and choose intimidation over respect. 
I pray for bullies right now, please touch their hearts. 
Lord, please let Your light shine upon them and eradicate the darkness that surrounds them. 
Amen.


Peace and Blessings,
Linda Crosthwait, STM Principal

Dear STM Families,
Each October we celebrate ‘Respect Life Month’, and the first Sunday of October (this Sunday) is observed as ‘Respect Life Sunday.’ As Catholics, we are called to cherish, defend, and protect those who are most vulnerable, from the beginning to the end of their lives, and at every point in between. During the month of October, the Church asks us to reflect more deeply on the dignity of every human life. 
During this Year of St. Joseph, each of us can find in him “an intercessor, a support and a guide in times of trouble.”  St. Joseph shows us how to say “yes” to life, despite our own fears, frailties, and weaknesses. For it is Joseph who was “chosen by God to guide the beginnings of the history of redemption. He was the true ‘miracle’ by which God saves the child and his mother.”  
As we begin the month of October, we can start to become more like St. Joseph by asking ourselves a few questions and reflecting on them: Do we realize how precious every person is? As we go about our day, do we treat people accordingly? How can we help those in our society who are struggling to welcome new life, like moms who are pregnant or parenting in difficult circumstances? How can we reach out to those having a hard time seeing the worth of their own lives? 
May we take up the mantle of St. Joseph as we begin the month of October tomorrow.  
Peace and Blessings,
Linda Crosthwait, STM Principal


STM SCHOOL UPCOMING EVENTS:
TONIGHT, Sept. 30
FIRE FRIEND-RAISER; 6:30-8:30 p.m. at STM (see details below)

TOMORROW, Friday, Oct. 1
Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet with STM parents at 2:55 p.m.

TOMORROW, Friday Oct. 1
STM First Friday Spirit Day! See details below.

Sept. 27-Oct. 5
Scholastic Book Fair

Wednesday, Oct. 13
1st Grade Field Trip to the Kansas City Zoo

Friday, Oct. 15
NO SCHOOL--Teacher Professional Development Day

Saturday, Oct. 16
Fall Fling--An Outdoor Market

Monday, Oct. 18
Picture Re-take Day; Students who need to take or re-take photos have a Dress-Up Day

Thursday, Oct. 21
DATE CHANGE FOR 7TH GRADE
7th & 8th Grade Field Trip to Auschwitz Exhibit at Union Station; 7th Grade at 9 a.m. & 8th Grade at 11 a.m.

Monday-Friday, Oct. 18-22
FIRE WEEK; see details below

Wednesday, Oct. 27
Trunk or Treat

Thursday & Friday, Oct. 28 & 29
Parent-Teacher Conferences (see info below)
½ day for students on Oct. 28
NO SCHOOL for students on Oct. 29

Monday, Nov. 1
NO SCHOOL--Teacher PD Day

Saturday, Nov. 13 
Booster Club Pickleball Tournament at Blue Hills Country Club

Thursday, Nov. 18
2nd Grade--First Reconciliation


SPIRIT DAY TOMORROW!
Tomorrow is First Friday STM Spirit Day!  Students may wear an STM Spirit Wear shirt with jeans, khaki pants, jean or khaki shorts or bottoms of a uniform-appropriate length, Spirit Wear shorts, or uniform bottoms.  Of course the STM uniform is always appropriate, too!


SYCAMORE ACCESS FOR PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES!
Please check to make sure you have access to Sycamore before next Thursday, Oct. 7th.  Parents will be using Sycamore to sign up for conferences this year.  Sign ups for the Oct. 28th & 29th conferences will go live at the end of next week.  If you do not have access to Sycamore, please contact Colleen Sullivan in the Front Office @ 816.941.5581


FRIDAY PRAYER OPPORTUNITY:
Parents,
Each Friday at 2:55 pm you are invited to join other parents (and little people) to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet.  There are no required supplies (though a rosary is helpful) and if you have never prayed it, or aren’t sure how to pray it, handouts and guidance will be provided.  What a great way to unite our sufferings and remind us of God’s love and mercy as we enter the weekend!  Remember that meeting your child(ren) in the church or in front of the church is not allowed to keep traffic flowing smoothly and so that others in prayer are not disturbed.  We hope you can join us by praying together on Fridays @ 2:55!
DRESS CODE ISSUES:
We are having some issues with STM Dress Code adherence.  Please review the uniform requirements in the attached STM Student Handbook on p. 37. Here are a few of the most common infractions:

• Students need a belt when wearing pants with belt loops 
• Students need to have shirts tucked in neatly 
• Students are not allowed to wear clothing that is not part of the STM uniform. This includes sweaters, sweatshirts and jackets. Winter coats are the exception.
• Shirts:
  • Girls in grades K-3:  Cotton or knit tailored straight sleeved solid white or red shirt with collar OR turtleneck.  Must be tucked in neatly.
  • Girls in grades 4-8:  Cotton or knit tailored straight sleeved solid white, red, or navy shirt OR turtleneck.  Must be tucked in neatly.
  • Boys in grades K-8:  Tailored white or red shirt with collar. Can be knit or oxford. Shirts are to be tucked in while on school premises. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR 8TH GRADE PARENTS:
The following immunizations are received between ages 11 and 13 years and are required for all 8th grade students. Please check with your health provider for an updated immunization record.
Tdap
 Meningococcal/MCV
If your child has had any updates please send a copy or fax to school no later than October 13th, 2021. (Fax: 816-941-2450)


STM CHILDREN’S CHOIR AT 11 A.M. MASS THIS SUNDAY:
This Sunday the STM Children's Choir will sing at the 11:00 Mass. Students should arrive at Church by 10:30am dressed in nice Church clothes and go directly to the choir loft to warm-up and get ready. We thank you for your support.
    
DON’T MISS OUT!  GATHERING PARTY INFO: 
Gathering parties are a way for our school to raise money or receive auction items for the annual STM Auction on Feb. 5.  This year's parties that are already booked are listed below.  Invites will be sent home in backpacks closer to your child’s grade level event. 


10/2 - 2nd & 4th
10/9 - Preschool & Kindergarten
10/30 - 5th, 6th & 7th




COVID-RELATED INFORMATION:  STM COVID DASHBOARD:           Week ending 9/16/21          Week ending 9/23 /21           Week ending 9/30/21     
                                                                 Students in quarantine                                         0                                           0                                                0 
                                                              Staff members in quarantine                                  0                                           0                                               0
                                                                    Students in isolation                                            0                                           0                                              0
                                                               Staff members in isolation                                     1                                             1                                              0  
                                                                Percentage of attendance                                  95%                                        97%                                        97%

Total # of Student COVID cases this school year:  15  
Total # of Staff cases this school year:  1   
If your child has tested positive for COVID, and STM was not notified, please email Health@stmcyclones.org with the date of the positive test.    
We appreciate you partnering with us on school days to verify that every child is fever-free and not experiencing:   

• New cough   
• Difficult breathing   
• Loss of taste/smell   
• Fever (equal to or greater than 100 degrees) or chills   
• Sore throat   
• Congestion/runny nose   
• Headache   
• Muscle or body aches   
• Nausea/vomiting/diarrhea   

If your child has any of these symptoms, they should not attend school. Notify the STM Health Room of any symptoms or exposure to COVID-19 by calling 816-942-5581 or email health@stmcyclones.org 
COVID Task Force Meeting Notes:
The COVID Task Force met this afternoon at STM.

• Current COVID numbers of ‘0’ students or staff in isolation or quarantine were shared. 
• Current mask mandates in Kansas City, MO and Jackson County are set to expire on Oct. 7.  If that happens, the team will meet to discuss next steps at STM.  If the mandates are extended, the regular meeting date set for Tuesday, Oct. 21 will remain the same.
• Team discussed the removal of the plexiglass barrier surrounding the reception area in the STM School lobby
• Email communication from the parent community were shared and discussed:
  • Non-masked adult school function attendance was revisited
  • Classroom quarantine procedures (masked v. unmasked) were reviewed
  • Considerations to remove the mask mandate were discussed
  • Information about an Archdiocesan school’s masking policies and COVID rates were shared

FIRE RAFFLE TICKETS SENT HOME IN BACKPACKS:
We are excited to participate in the Annual FIREBall Cup raffle contest, a fundraising effort and friendly competition among schools in our diocese to benefit the FIRE Foundation, students with special needs, and support inclusive education.  Each school family will receive 5 tickets to sell. The winning school will be announced on October 21st and will receive a special surprise!  
Contest Rules: 

• Tickets are $10 each. Cash and checks made out to FIRE are accepted. Online sales also available at www.firefoundation.org.

• Please make sure tickets are filled out legibly, with a name, email and phone number for contact purposes. Return to classroom teachers.

• The lucky winner will receive $2.500 in honor of FIRE’s 25th anniversary!

• The drawing will take place at the FIREBall on October 23rd. Winner need not be present to win.

• Weekly announcements will be made updating the school leaderboard standings. 

• Last day to turn in tickets and money is 12pm on Wed, October 7th. Online sales open until 4pm on Wed, October 20th!

EARN CASH FOR STM!
Coca-Cola Gives:
We’re excited to share that our school is part of the Coca-Cola Give program. This opens up St. Thomas More to new funding opportunities to help improve learning environments for students. The best part? Donations don’t come out of your own pocket. When you make Coca-Cola purchases, you simply enter the product codes here: coke.com/give/schools (make sure to search for St Thomas More using Zip Code 64131) and our school receives a donation. Help STM make the most of this program and learn more at Coke.com/give.
You may also drop off Bottle Caps or Codes from the inside of Coke product cases at the school office for entry. 


As we begin Respect Life month tomorrow, here is a prayer you might consider sharing with your family:
A Prayer of Thanks 
 Dear God, Our Father, 
We thank you for our lives. 
We thank you for making each one of us a unique person. 
We thank you for each other. 
We thank you for the many gifts you have given us. 
Help us to see the gifts of other people. 
Help us to share our gifts with each other. 
Help us to care for each other the way you care for us. 
Amen.