​Dear STM Families,
 
As the instructional leader of the school, I must balance the needs of our students and their  families with the needs of the community and the needs of the teachers.  I must also maintain the integrity of the Church I serve - not just St. Thomas More, but the Catholic Church. 
 
In addition, I must maintain my integrity as a human being and an educator. This can make me unpopular, especially when agendas get pushed in and out of view. I want you to know that no matter what, I function under the umbrella of “What Is Best for the Children–ALL of the Children.” 
 
Please know that your children, their path to heaven, and their safety on this earth are tantamount in my daily work.  I went into education because I love children and the joy they bring. I remain in education because I love children and want to preserve their joy and innocence as long as possible. 
 
I serve in Catholic schools because I love God, I love my Catholic faith.  I will do all that I can to lead children to loving Jesus Christ and one another because their souls depend on it. This is my moral responsibility as it is yours as the primary educators of children. I take this job very seriously. 
 
Thank you for trusting in me. Thank you for trusting in St. Thomas More School. We are here for your children and your family. 
 
As we celebrate Catholic Schools next week, thank you for acknowledging the difference a Catholic school can make in your life and the life of your child.
 
Peace and Blessings,
Linda Crosthwait, STM Principal
 
STM IMPORTANT DATES
Friday, Jan. 27
STM Chiefs RED FRIDAY (Again!)--Let’s support our Home Team!! Details below!

Friday, Jan. 27
8th Grade Mixer Fundraiser at STM

Sunday, Jan. 29
STM Open House from 10:30 a.m.-1 p..m.

Sunday, Jan. 29-Friday, Feb. 3
Catholic Schools Week (see details below)

Monday, Jan. 30
Celebrating Inclusion/Student Day
Inclusive Education Scavenger Hunt 
Dress Down Day for Students - Sweats Day–students may wear any sweatpants and sweatshirts (no pajama bottoms, leggings or yoga pants AND no hoodies, please)
8th Grade Bake Sale - after lunches and afternoon recesses–$1 per item

Tuesday, Jan. 31
Celebrating Community/Family Day
Parents come in at lunches and share what they do within the community and how they incorporate their faith 
No Homework Night - Spend Time As A Family
Dress Down Day for Students–Local Organization T-shirt Day or STM Spirit tops with jeans, khakis, uniform bottoms or STM Spirit Wear bottoms (no jammie pants, please)

Wednesday, Feb. 1
Celebrating Vocations/Service Day (MASS DAY)
Petitions at Mass highlighting our Appreciation for Fr. Justin, Fr. Kleine, Sister Colette, etc.
Cards, Posters, Paper Chains for Priests & Sr. Colette (delivered to Sr. Colette & Parish Office by EOD)
PreK-1st: Sr. Colette
2nd-4th: Fr. Justin
5th-8th: Fr. Kleine
Promote our Unbound student to the student body: presentation before Mass; $1 donation suggested
STUCO Sponsored Dress UP Day to raise money for our Unbound student.
Living Rosary - All school @ 2pm

Thursday, Feb. 2
Celebrating Teachers/Staff Day
Staff Dress Down Day
Students Dress like their Homeroom Teacher Day
8th Grade/Teacher Volleyball Game @ 2:15 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 3
Student Learning Conferences:  7:30 a.m.-noon

Saturday, Feb. 4
‘Be More’--STM Auction Event (see details below)

Tuesday, Feb. 7
Minsky’s Dine-Out Night

Saturday, Feb. 11
STM Father/Daughter Dance from 6-8 pm in Flanagan Hall.

Friday, Feb. 17
NO SCHOOL–Teacher Professional Development Day

Monday, Feb. 20
NO SCHOOL–President’s Day

Wednesday, Feb. 22
Ash Wednesday

Saturday, Feb. 25
STM Booster Club Bags Tournament 

Monday, March 27-Saturday, April 1
STM Booster Club Glory Days

 
KC CHIEFS RED FRIDAY/STM SPIRIT DAY TOMORROW:
As our KC Chiefs prepare to take on the Cincinnati Bengals Sunday in the NFL Conference Championship game, we want to SHOW OUR CHIEFS PRIDE AT STM!!!  Tomorrow is  RED FRIDAY at STM!!
Students may wear KC Chiefs jerseys, shirts, jackets, or sweatshirts (no hoodies, please!), STM Spirit Wear tops (no hoodies, please), or a uniform top.  Also, students can wear STM Spirit Wear bottoms, jeans, khaki pants, or uniform bottoms. 
GO CHIEFS!!! 
 
STM AUCTION:  Saturday, February 4th:
St. Thomas More 'Be More' Auction and Dance is this February 4, 2023.  Tickets are on sale now through our auction website www.stmauction.org.  Join your STM community and help raise funds for our school and parish.  Seats are limited, so purchase your tickets today!
ITEM DONATIONS: It’s not too late to consider contributing to our fundraising efforts. We would love to include your items in this year's auction! We can't do it without you! Please visit stmauction.org and click on 'Donate Auction Items' to fill out the form -or- email Courtney Fahey/Andrea Moore: stm-auction@stmcyclones.org. Not sure what to donate then shop our Amazon with list. The items you buy will be sent directly to the Auction Committee to be included in the Auction. Don’t forget to shop under Amazon Smile to double your giveback impact! To shop visit stmauction.org and click on ‘Amazon Wish List’. 
Thank you to those who have graciously donated items to date. We are blessed!
 
8th GRADE MIXER - Fundraiser:
Friday, Jan. 27th @ 6:30-9:00 p.m.
Where: STM - Flanagan Hall
Admission: Tickets will be limited, so click the link below to purchase tickets today!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/8th-grade-mixer-at-st-thomas-more-tickets-512153965297
ONLY 8TH GRADERS WILL BE ALLOWED!
  
BRICKS 4 KIDZ–NEW SESSION BEGINS FEBRUARY 1:
Bricks 4 Kids enrichment classes are designed to be educational and FUN!  Principles of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) are utilized through building motorized LEGO models.  Every lesson is unique and designed to engage a child’s mind.  Each 6-week session features a new theme and models.  
This club is for grades K-5.  Class size is limited.  Students will receive a LEGO minifig with enrollment.  Cost:  $82 for six-week session.
*NO ENROLLMENT TAKEN AT SCHOOL.  ENROLL ONLINE AT:  www.bricks4kidz.com/kcnorth
 
STM FATHER-DAUGHTER DANCE COMING UP!:
STM Father/Daughter Valentine’s dance will take place February 11th from 6-8 in Flanagan Hall. Cost:  $25 a couple, $5 for each added girl. Cash, check to BMA foundation or Venmo Meg Burke @meg-burke-5.
Don’t miss out on this great way to make Daddy-Daughter memories!!
 
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK ACTIVITIES:
SUNDAY, 1/29: Open House CSW Kick Off
STUCO  and student participation at Saturday and Sunday Masses.  
Open House from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. with donuts in the cafeteria
MONDAY, 1/30: Celebrating Inclusion/Student Day
Inclusive Education Scavenger Hunt 
Dress Down Day for Students - Sweats Day
8th Grade Bake Sale - after lunches and afternoon recesses
TUESDAY, 1/31: Celebrating Community/Family Day
Parents come in at lunches and share what they do within the community and how they incorporate their faith (SignUp Genius).
No Homework Night - Spend Time As A Family
 
Local Organization T-shirt Day or STM Spirit Day
 
WEDNESDAY, 2/1: Celebrating Vocations/Service Day (MASS DAY)
Petitions at Mass highlighting our Appreciation for Fr. Justin, Fr. Kleine, Sister Colette, etc.
Cards, Posters, Paper Chains for Priests & Sr. Colette (delivered to Sr. Colette & Parish Office by EOD)
PreK-1st: Sr. Colette
2nd-4th: Fr. Justin
5th-8th: Fr. Kleine
Promote our Unbound student to the student body: presentation before Mass by Linda/Meredith
STUCO Sponsored Dress UP Day to raise money for our Unbound student.
Living Rosary - All school @ 2pm
THURSDAY, 2/2:Celebrating Teachers/Staff Day
Teachers do their own “Faithbook” Profile with pieces of their own faith story that can be shared with the community; each teacher will get a template to fill out.
 
Staff Dress Down Day
Students Dress like their Homeroom Teacher
 
8th Grade/Teacher Volleyball Game @ 2:15 p.m.
FRIDAY, 2/3: NO SCHOOL
Student Learning Conferences; 7:30 a.m. - Noon
 
JOIN THE STM RESCUE PROJECT:
The Rescue Project...Coming to St. Thomas More February 9th!
God made a universe that has roughly two trillion galaxies, each with 100-400 billion stars...and He knows each star by name. The same God made you.  You matter to God! 
Do you ever wonder why you matter to God? The Rescue Project answers the why. Just released in August, The Rescue Project proposes The Story of the gospel presented in a way that you've never heard before, and it appeals to everyone...whether in or outside of the Church...from teens to adults of all ages!  
Watch the trailer:
https://rescueproject.us/trailer/
Each session includes a meal, presentation on video by Fr. John Riccardo, and conversation at St. Thomas More Catholic Church-More Hall
Starting February 9th, Thursday evenings: 6:30-8:30 p.m.  
February 9,16,23 and March 2,9,16, and 30  
*Saturday Retreat: March 25th, 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
 
To Register: https://stmkc.com/faith_formation/adult-faith-formation/the-rescue-project/
 
 
A PRAYER FOR CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK:
Father, 
Thank you for all those men and women who have given their talents to educate our children.
Through the challenges they encounter each day, lead them to an ever deeper appreciation of the sacred duty to which you have called them. 
Thank you for all those who lead our Catholic schools. 
May they be people of integrity so that they can be witnesses as well as teachers. We pray that the schools they lead will become places 
where our young people can experience your love in their lives. 
Thank you for our Catholic schools. 
Help us to pray without ceasing, 
to work without wavering 
and to give without grudging 
in order to ensure the future of Catholic education for all of our children. 
We make this prayer 
through your Son, Jesus Christ, our teacher and our Lord, 
Amen.
 

Jan. 19, 2023
 
Dear STM Families,
The international Week of Prayer for Christian Unity began yesterday and continues through next Wednesday, Jan. 25. Christians around the world pray for the unity of Christ’s sheep.  We are all called to fulfill Jesus’ prayer at the last supper, “that they all may be one” (John 17:11).
Each year, a different theme is chosen for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. The theme for 2023 is "Do good; seek justice" (Isiaah 1:17). It was chosen by a working group from the Minnesota Council of Churches, which chose the verse from the first chapter of the prophet Isaiah, which reads “learn to do good; seek justice, rescue the oppressed, defend the orphan, plead for the widow” (1:17).
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is an opportunity to ask God to help Christian Churches seek common ground and appreciation for each other. Prayer is the key which opens our hearts to Christ’s desire for unity. In opening ourselves to prayer we remember that we share a common baptism and faith in the Trinity. Our practice of faith begins in our shared appreciation for Scripture as the Word of God where we encounter the saving truth of Jesus.
Each morning through this special week, our students will hear readings from the Bible that reinforce the theme to “Do good; seek justice.”  Following is a prayer you can share with your family at home for this unifying celebration of faith:

Heavenly Father,
We pray for all our brothers and sisters in the faith.
May we sow love, forgive those who wrong us,
And bring about justice in the world.
This is only possible with your grace, 
So that peace may reign in the world.
We ask this through Jesus Christ your Son,
Who prayed that we may all be one in your love.
Amen.
 
Peace and Blessings,
Linda Crosthwait, STM Principal
 
STM IMPORTANT DATES
Friday, Jan 20 - KC Chiefs RED FRIDAY Dress Down Day

Monday, Jan. 23 - Student Council Donut Sale at 7:30 a.m. in the cafeteria.
$2 per donut; only one donut per person

Wednesday, Jan. 25
Group photo day: 8th Grade Individual Graduation pictures (see details below)

Friday, Jan. 27 - 8th Grade Mixer Fundraiser at STM

Sunday, Jan. 29 - STM Open House from 10:30 a.m.-1 p..m.

Sunday, Jan. 29 - Friday, Feb. 3 - Catholic Schools Week (see details below)

Friday, Feb. 3 - Student Learning Conferences:  7:30 a.m.-noon

Saturday, Feb. 4 - ‘Be More’--STM Auction Event (see details below)

Saturday, Feb. 11 - STM Father/Daughter Dance from 6-8 pm in Flanagan Hall.

Friday, Feb. 17 - NO SCHOOL–Teacher Professional Development Day

Monday, Feb. 20
NO SCHOOL–President’s Day

Wednesday, Feb. 22
Ash Wednesday

 
KC CHIEFS RED FRIDAY/STM SPIRIT DAY TOMORROW:
As our KC Chiefs prepare to take on the Jacksonville Jaguars Saturday in the NFL Divisional Round, we want to SHOW OUR CHIEFS PRIDE AT STM!!!  Tomorrow is  RED FRIDAY at STM!!
Students may wear KC Chiefs jerseys, shirts, jackets, or sweatshirts (no hoodies, please!), STM Spirit Wear tops (no hoodies, please), or a uniform top.  Also, students can wear STM Spirit Wear bottoms, jeans, khaki pants, or uniform bottoms. 
GO CHIEFS!!! 
STM K of C Council No. 14270 YOUTH FREE THROW CHAMPIONSHIP
All boys and girls ages 9 to 14 are invited to participate in the local level of competition for the 2023 Knights of Columbus (K of C) Free Throw Championship.  The local competition will be held during the STM School P.E. classes (third to eighth grades) NEXT WEEK.
The K of C Free Throw Championship is sponsored annually, with winners progressing through local, district, and state competitions.  International champions are announced by the K of C international headquarters based on scores from the state-level competitions.  All boys and girls 9 to 14 years old are eligible to participate and will compete in their respective age divisions.  Age eligibility is determined by the age of the contestants as of January 1st.  Last year more than 120,000 sharpshooters participated in over 3,600 local competitions.
Participants are required to furnish written parental consent (signed entry form).  For entry forms or additional information contact Craig Borgmeyer at 816-863-2332 or cborgmeyer@kc.rr.com.  PLEASE FIND THE CONSENT FORM ATTACHED.  SIGN AND RETURN THE FORM WITH YOUR CHILD BY FRIDAY, JANUARY 20.
The K of C is the world’s largest Catholic fraternal service organization with 17,000 local councils. Founded in 1882 to assist working-class and immigrant Catholics in the United States, today the approximately two million members of the Knights put their faith into action through a broad range of charitable causes locally, nationally and internationally with financial contributions and hands-on service.
 
 
BRICKS 4 KIDZ–NEW SESSION BEGINS FEBRUARY 1:
Bricks 4 Kids enrichment classes are designed to be educational and FUN!  Principles of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) are utilized through building motorized LEGO models.  Every lesson is unique and designed to engage a child’s mind.  Each 6-week session features a new theme and models.  
This club is for grades K-5.  Class size is limited.  Students will receive a LEGO minifig with enrollment.  Cost:  $82 for six-week session.
*NO ENROLLMENT TAKEN AT SCHOOL.  ENROLL ONLINE AT:  www.bricks4kidz.com/kcnorth
STM AUCTION:  Saturday, February 4th:
St. Thomas More 'Be More' Auction and Dance is this February 4, 2023.  Tickets are on sale now through our auction website www.stmauction.org.  Join your STM community and help raise funds for our school and parish.  Seats are limited, so purchase your tickets today!
ITEM DONATIONS: It’s not too late to consider contributing to our fundraising efforts. We would love to include your items in this year's auction! We can't do it without you! Please visit stmauction.org and click on 'Donate Auction Items' to fill out the form -or- email Courtney Fahey/Andrea Moore: stm-auction@stmcyclones.org. Not sure what to donate then shop our Amazon with list. The items you buy will be sent directly to the Auction Committee to be included in the Auction. Don’t forget to shop under Amazon Smile to double your giveback impact! To shop visit stmauction.org and click on ‘Amazon Wish List’. 
messages/attachments/ef54e93f73bcc4685eee6c873b3f9a5e/STM_Auction_2023_Invite_2_Social.jpg
Thank you to the following who have graciously donated items to date. We are blessed!
 
 
8th GRADE MIXER - Fundraiser:
Friday, Jan. 27th @ 6:30-9:00 p.m.
Where: STM - Flanagan Hall
Admission: Tickets will be limited, so click the link below to purchase tickets today!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/8th-grade-mixer-at-st-thomas-more-tickets-512153965297
ONLY 8TH GRADERS WILL BE ALLOWED!
 
8TH GRADE PARENTS:  GRADUATION PICTURES ON WEDNESDAY:
Professional 8th-grade graduation pictures will be taken at STM beginning at 8 a.m. next
Wednesday, January 25.
Here are some details:
· All boys should wear a white dress shirt with a tie for the photos.
· Girls will have a white-collar provided for their photos.
· Gowns and caps will be provided.
· Students will not be allowed to have hair in or over their eyes. Boys' hair should not
touch the collar (so if a haircut is necessary, please make plans for this to happen
before Wednesday).
· Two photographers will be set up in Flanagan Hall to take the photos.
· Pre-payment is not necessary. The photographer will send proofs to your
personal email for purchase.
· Re-takes are scheduled for February.
· See attachment below.
· Please call our school office with any questions.
 
STM FATHER-DAUGHTER DANCE COMING UP!:
STM Father/Daughter Valentine’s dance will take place February 11th from 6-8 in Flanagan Hall. Cost:  $25 a couple, $5 for each added girl. Cash, check to BMA foundation or Venmo Meg Burke @meg-burke-5.
Don’t miss out on this great way to make Daddy-Daughter memories!!
 
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK ACTIVITIES:
SUNDAY, 1/29: Open House CSW Kick Off
· STUCO  and student participation at Saturday and Sunday Masses.  
· Open House from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
 
MONDAY, 1/30: Celebrating Inclusion/Student Day
· Inclusive Education Scavenger Hunt 
· Dress Down Day for Students - Sweats Day
· 8th Grade Bake Sale - after lunches and afternoon recesses
TUESDAY, 1/31: Celebrating Community/Family Day
Parents come in at lunches and share what they do within the community and how they incorporate their faith (SignUp Genius).
No Homework Night - Spend Time As A Family
Local Organization T-shirt Day or STM Spirit Day
 
WEDNESDAY, 2/1: Celebrating Vocations/Service Day (MASS DAY)
· Petitions at Mass highlighting our Appreciation for Fr. Justin, Fr. Kleine, Sister Colette, etc.
· Cards, Posters, Paper Chains for Priests & Sr. Colette (delivered to Sr. Colette & Parish Office by EOD)
PreK-1st: Sr. Colette
2nd-4th: Fr. Justin
5th-8th: Fr. Kleine
· Promote our Unbound student to the student body: presentation before Mass by Linda/Meredith
· STUCO Sponsored Dress UP Day to raise money for our Unbound student.
· Living Rosary - All school @ 2pm 
THURSDAY, 2/2:Celebrating Teachers/Staff Day
Teachers do their own “Faithbook” Profile with pieces of their own faith story that can be shared with the community; each teacher will get a template to fill out.
 
· Staff Dress Down Day
· Students Dress like their Homeroom Teacher
· 8th Grade/Teacher Volleyball Game @ 2:15 p.m.
FRIDAY, 2/3: NO SCHOOL
· Student Learning Conferences; 7:30 a.m. - Noon
 
 
ATTENTION PARENTS OF 5TH-8TH GRADE STUDENTS:
Teachers at each grade level (5th-8th) will begin sending out a weekly synopsis in ONE EMAIL to your Inbox by each Sunday afternoon.  This email will delineate the upcoming week’s essential learning topics, plans for major assignments or projects, and planned test dates.  These dates may be pushed back if necessary, but will never be sooner than shared in these emails.
There was a glitch with the 7th & 8th grade newsletter last weekend.  Please expect to receive it by 3 p.m. on Sundays from now on.
 
JOIN THE STM RESCUE PROJECT:
 
The Rescue Project...Coming to St. Thomas More February 9th!
 
God made a universe that has roughly two trillion galaxies, each with 100-400 billion stars...and He knows each star by name. The same God made you.  You matter to God! 
Do you ever wonder why you matter to God? The Rescue Project answers the why. Just released in August, The Rescue Project proposes The Story of the gospel presented in a way that you've never heard before, and it appeals to everyone...whether in or outside of the Church...from teens to adults of all ages!  
Watch the trailer:
https://rescueproject.us/trailer/
 
Each session includes a meal, presentation on video by Fr. John Riccardo, and conversation at St. Thomas More Catholic Church-More Hall
Starting February 9th, Thursday evenings: 6:30-8:30 p.m.  
February 9,16,23 and March 2,9,16, and 30  
*Saturday Retreat: March 25th, 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
 
To Register: https://stmkc.com/faith_formation/adult-faith-formation/the-rescue-project/
 
Dear Father in heaven, 
You know every star by name, and there are billions of stars!  
You created the entire universe out of nothing. 
Your creation is so vast 
and beyond anything that we can even imagine. 
You are amazing, God!  
Your Word says that you knew me before I was born, 
that every hair on my head is numbered, 
that my name is written on your heart 
and that You hold me in the palm of Your hand. 
Thank you God! 
Thank you for loving me with such an amazing love as this. 
Amen.
 

Dear STM Families,
Pope Francis’ prayer intention for the month of January is for educators.
“Educators are witnesses who not only impart their mental knowledge but also their convictions, their commitment to life,” the Holy Father said on Jan. 10. 
“I would like to propose that educators add new content to their teaching: fraternity,” the Holy Father said.
“Education is an act of love that illuminates the path for us to recover a sense of fraternity, so we will not ignore those who are most vulnerable.”
“They [educators] know how to handle the three languages well: that of the head, that of the heart, and that of the hands, all in harmony. And hence the joy in communicating.”
“And they will be heeded much more attentively and will become community builders. Why? Because they’re sowing this testimony,” Pope Francis continued.
The Holy Father concluded the video message with a prayer: “Let us pray that educators may be credible witnesses, teaching fraternity rather than confrontation and helping especially the youngest and most vulnerable above all.”
Our STM staff is incredibly grateful and blessed to have parents like you who join us as the primary educators of our greatest gifts–your children.  Please join us as we pray for each other throughout 2023 in fraternity.
 
Peace and Blessings,
Linda Crosthwait, STM Principal
 
STM IMPORTANT DATES
Friday, Jan. 13: BMA Foundation Mouse Races, 7 p.m. in More Hall

Monday, Jan. 16: NO SCHOOL–Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Friday, Jan 20: KC Chiefs RED FRIDAY Dress Down Day

Friday, Jan. 27: 8th Grade Mixer Fundraiser at STM

Sunday, Jan. 29: STM Open House from 10:30 a.m.-1 p..m.

Sunday, Jan. 29-Friday, Feb. 3: Catholic Schools Week (see details below)

Friday, Feb. 3: Student Learning Conferences:  7:30 a.m.-noon

Saturday, Feb. 4: ‘Be More’--STM Auction Event (see details below)

Friday, Feb. 17: NO SCHOOL–Teacher Professional Development Day

Monday, Feb. 20: NO SCHOOL–President’s Day

Wednesday, Feb. 22: Ash Wednesday

ATTENTION PARENTS OF 5TH-8TH GRADE STUDENTS:
Teachers at each grade level (5th-8th) will begin sending out a weekly synopsis in ONE EMAIL to your Inbox by each Sunday afternoon.  This email will delineate the upcoming week’s essential learning topics, plans for major assignments or projects, and planned test dates.  These dates may be pushed back if necessary, but will never be sooner than shared in these emails. Watch for your first email this Sunday, January 15.
 
STM K of C Council No. 14270 YOUTH FREE THROW CHAMPIONSHIP
All boys and girls ages 9 to 14 are invited to participate in the local level of competition for the 2023 Knights of Columbus (K of C) Free Throw Championship.  The local competition will be held during the STM School P.E. classes (third to eighth grades) the week of January 23rd.   
The K of C Free Throw Championship is sponsored annually, with winners progressing through local, district, and state competitions.  International champions are announced by the K of C international headquarters based on scores from the state-level competitions.  All boys and girls 9 to 14 years old are eligible to participate and will compete in their respective age divisions.  Age eligibility is determined by the age of the contestants as of January 1st.  Last year more than 120,000 sharpshooters participated in over 3,600 local competitions.
Participants are required to furnish written parental consent (signed entry form).  For entry forms or additional information contact Craig Borgmeyer at 816-863-2332 or cborgmeyer@kc.rr.com.  
The K of C is the world’s largest Catholic fraternal service organization with 17,000 local councils. Founded in 1882 to assist working-class and immigrant Catholics in the United States, today the approximately two million members of the Knights put their faith into action through a broad range of charitable causes locally, nationally and internationally with financial contributions and hands-on service.
  
A MESSAGE FROM TIM WARIS, PARISH BUSINESS MANAGER:
The fundraising fee was due on 12/31/2022. To run the Credit Card on file, please reach out to Mr. Waris at Tim@stmkc.com or call him at 816-942-2492. 
 
BRICKS 4 KIDZ–NEW SESSION BEGINS FEBRUARY 1:
Bricks 4 Kids enrichment classes are designed to be educational and FUN!  Principles of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) are utilized through building motorized LEGO models.  Every lesson is unique and designed to engage a child’s mind.  Each 6-week session features a new theme and models.  
This club is for grades K-5.  Class size is limited.  Students will receive a LEGO minifig with enrollment.
Cost:  $82 for six-week session.
*NO ENROLLMENT TAKEN AT SCHOOL.  ENROLL ONLINE AT:  www.bricks4kidz.com/kcnorth
 
FRIENDS of FIRE - MO SCHOLARS PROGRAM Informational ZOOM - Wednesday, Jan. 18th @ 7:00 p.m.
What is the MO Scholars Program? The law provides state tax credits for contributions to approved, non-profit Educational Assistance Organizations (EAOs). These EAOs use the contributions to award scholarships to Missouri students with Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and students living in low-income households. Your student could be eligible for up to $6,375 in scholarships!
ZOOM LINK: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84824774274?pwd=NTBIVjhLbkN4K2lkb3Y1Qk5GUW9Qdz09

Featured Speakers:
Jeremy Lillig, CSJA, Executive Director, Stewardship & Development – Bright Futures Fund
Nicolette Gibson, Associate Superintendent, Diocese Kansas City – St. Joseph.
The Bright Futures Fund is pleased to announce our selection as a certified Educational Assistance Organization for the new MOSCHOLARS K-12 Scholarship program in Missouri.  Donors will be able to receive special tax credits for their donations and families will be able to apply for scholarships to attend our Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Kansas City – St. Joseph. *
(The scholarship application process has concluded for 2022-2023 school year – full application for 2023-2024 is coming in Feb 2023)
Resources:
https://treasurer.mo.gov/MOScholars/
https://www.brightfuturesfund.org/moscholars.html
 
STM AUCTION:  Saturday, February 4th:
St. Thomas More 'Be More' Auction and Dance is this February 4, 2023.  Tickets are on sale now through our auction website www.stmauction.org.  Join your STM community and help raise funds for our school and parish.  Seats are limited, so purchase your tickets today!
ITEM DONATIONS: It’s not too late to consider contributing to our fundraising efforts. We would love to include your items in this year's auction! We can't do it without you! Please visit stmauction.org and click on 'Donate Auction Items' to fill out the form -or- email Courtney Fahey/Andrea Moore:
stm-auction@stmcyclones.org. Not sure what to donate then shop our Amazon with list. The items you buy will be sent directly to the Auction Committee to be included in the Auction. Don’t forget to shop under Amazon Smile to double your giveback impact! To shop visit stmauction.org and click on ‘Amazon Wish List’.  
Thank you to all who have graciously donated items to date. We are blessed!
 
 
8th GRADE MIXER - Fundraiser: Wednesday, Jan. 27th @ 6:30-9:00 p.m.
Where: STM - Flanagan Hall
Admission: Tickets will be limited, so click the link below to purchase tickets today!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/8th-grade-mixer-at-st-thomas-more-tickets-512153965297
ONLY 8TH GRADERS WILL BE ALLOWED!
 
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK ACTIVITIES:
SUNDAY: Open House CSW Kick Off
· STUCO  and student participation at Saturday and Sunday Masses.  
· Open House from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

MONDAY: Celebrating Inclusion/Student Day
· Inclusive Education Scavenger Hunt 
· Dress Down Day for Students - Sweats Day
· 8th Grade Bake Sale - after lunches and afternoon recesses

TUESDAY: Celebrating Community/Family Day
· Parents come in at lunches and share what they do within the community and how they incorporate their faith (SignUp Genius).
· No Homework Night - Spend Time As A Family
· Local Organization T-shirt Day or STM Spirit Day
 
WEDNESDAY: Celebrating Vocations/Service Day (MASS DAY)
· Petitions at Mass highlighting our Appreciation for Fr. Justin, Fr. Kleine, Sister Colette, etc.
· Cards, Posters, Paper Chains for Priests & Sr. Colette (delivered to Sr. Colette & Parish Office by EOD)
·  PreK-1st: Sr. Colette
·  2nd-4th: Fr. Justin
·  5th-8th: Fr. Kleine
· Promote our Unbound student to the student body: presentation before Mass by Linda/Meredith
· STUCO Sponsored Dress UP Day to raise money for our Unbound student.
· Living Rosary - All school @ 2pm

THURSDAY:Celebrating Teachers/Staff Day
·  Teachers do their own “Faithbook” Profile with pieces of their own faith story that can be shared with the community; each teacher will get a template to fill out.
 · Staff Dress Down Day
· Students Dress like their Homeroom Teacher
· 8th Grade/Teacher Volleyball Game @ 2:15 p.m.

FRIDAY: NO SCHOOL
· Student Learning Conferences; 7:30 a.m. - Noon
 
JOIN THE STM RESCUE PROJECT:
Dear parents of STM School,
The stories that we believe shape the way that we live our lives. What is the story that gives you meaning, purpose and guides your life?  The Rescue Project is a compelling 8 week experience that offers a way of making sense of our lives in this world that is vastly different from the story that our modern culture tells us. The Rescue Project, just released in August, proposes The Story of the gospel presented in a way that you've never heard before. It appeals to everyone...whether in or outside of the Church...from teens to adults of all ages!  
Watch the trailer https://rescueproject.us/trailer/
Each FREE session includes a meal, presentation on video by Fr. John Riccardo, and conversation at St. Thomas More Catholic Church-More Hall
Starting February 9th, Thursday evenings: 6:30-8:30 p.m.  
February 9,16,23 and March 2,9,16, and 30  
*Saturday Retreat: March 25th, 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
To Register: https://stmkc.com/faith_formation/adult-faith-formation/the-rescue-project/

​Following is a prayer you can share with your family:
Dear God,
Thank you for being the author of the greatest story ever written!  
Help me to know that I am part of Your story. 
You created me and know me by name, and love me as if I were the only person in the story.
That is amazing, God!  
Help me to love you as much as You love me. 
Amen