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Thursday Tidbits
October 10, 2024
Thursday Tidbits
Dear Parents/Guardians,
Today we begin our Parent-Teacher Conferences for grades PK-8. Students in grades 4-8 must attend with their parents. Parents, you have chosen the format between either; in-person or virtual. Please contact the office if you have not received the virtual link for your conference. Arrive a few minutes early, teachers strive to stay on schedule.
We have been notified by the Superintendent of the Archdiocese that our school had the highest ratings in (2) areas of the 5Essentials Survey; Ambitious Instruction & Supportive Environment, from among all the Catholic Schools in Lake County. We are very proud to have achieved these high ratings and recognition. Mr. Greg Richmond, Superintendent has asked to visit our school, and we will be hosting him on November 22nd. This is a huge honor, and one we have not experienced for over 20 years! Planning and details to come.....
Our Gala is just a week away and I am still in need of the following items: (10) bottles of wine valued at $25 or over, and (10) bottles of whiskey valued at $35 or over. These are for wine & whiskey “pulls” at the event. If you are unable to support our Gala with your attendance, please consider donating one of these items. Our silent auction items will be going “live” this weekend. You do not have to attend to be able to bid on these fantastic items! There are so many wonderful baskets, specialty items, and “teacher/student experiences” available to bid on. Please help this to be a successful fundraiser! We have not held a Gala in over 10 years, the proceeds all go back into the school to benefit our students, and our future success as a Catholic school in the Grayslake community.
Our Sports Fanatic Fundraiser of; PigSkin Pick’Em has ended in a three-way tie. The winners are; Charlie Schoen, Max Mottola, and Katie Buckley. They each will take home winnings of over $100 with the remainder coming back to the school. Stay tuned for our next Sports Fundraiser of “Super Bowl Squares.” If you still have to pay your $30 entry fee, please use Zelle@stgilbertschool.org to pay.
Our next “big event” is our Boo Bash Boo Bash during the school day on Halloween. There will be games, dancing, bonfire & s’mores, trunk or treating, and prizes for best individual/group costumes for the various grade bands. We are still in need of candy donations (no nuts please) and volunteers to hand out candy at the trunks. If you can help even for part of the day please contact school.office@stgilbertschool.org. If you are working outside there is no need to be “Virtus” compliant. Each grade has been asked to create a “trunk” and I have a couple parent volunteers with their trunks as well. This event will run in sessions for the grades from 8:30-12:15. Parties will be held in your child’s classroom during their lunch times, coordinated by the room parents, and pizza is the main food item.
Enjoy the Fall-tastic weather!
Mrs. Kris Buckley, Principal
Calendar Reminders:
10/10 - 11:00 Dismissal, Parent-Teacher Conferences, Aftercare open until 5:30 for preschoolers only!
10/11 - No School, Parent-Teacher Conferences cont.
10/14 - No School - Indigenous People’s Day
10/15 - Band Lessons begin: during the school day Beginner & Intermediate) Afterschool 2:00-2:45 (Advanced)
Emil’s Restaurant Night: Emil's Night Flier
10/17 - School Picture Retakes (morning), Fire Department visit grades K-2
10/18- Spirit Wear Day, Grayslake H.S. 8th grade testing (bus provided from SGS), SGS 80th Anniversary Gala 6:00-10:30 @ Independence Grove-Audubon Room.
SGS Sports Stars Weekly:
10/12 - IESA Cross Country Sectionals @ Melas Park
10/15 - All our Girls Volleyball Teams are participating in “Volley 4 a Cure” at Prince of Peace. Games begin at 5:00. Students who attend as players or spectators earn a dress down pass! Volley 4 A Cure Details
10/17 - Boys Soccer away at LFCD (5:00)
Informational Fliers:
2nd Annual Christmas Bazaar Planning: Christmas Bazaar
8th Grade Carmel Shadow Day: St. Gilbert Dedicated Carmel Shadow Day (8th Only)
October 7, 2024
Music Program Information
Parent/Guardians,
We have two different music organizations that service our students. Here is the information and grades that these apply to. There are extra costs for this programming that is paid to the organization directly. Lessons occur during the school day, and in the case of band (one after-school practice session.)
Music Kids: Piano, Violin, Guitar lessons for grades PK-8 Music Kids Flier , Music Kids Info. SGS *Music kids lessons began 10/4, and occur on Monday & Fridays depending on schedules. If you are still interested, they are accepting new enrollees.
Music Education Services: Band Instrument Lessons Grades 4-8; Music Education Services Info. * Band lessons begin 10/15.
Mrs. Buckley, Principal
October 3, 2024
Thursday Tidbits
Dear Parents/Guardians,
We are enjoying the fair fall weather days here at SGS! Daily recess has been beautiful for all the grades, gym classes can continue to be held outside, the Aftercare children get to enjoy a second recess in the afternoon without coats, and we were able to hold our bus evacuation drill this week with mild temperatures and no rain! This is the time of year when we hold all our compliance drills that are mandated by the Illinois State Board of Education. Coming later in October will be our School Safety Drill. I will coordinate this with the Grayslake Police and our teachers of various grades. For our younger children in grades PK-3 we talk with them about general drill expectations, such as where exits are located in relation to their classroom, and how important it is to stay quiet and listen to their teachers. In the upper grades 4-8 we will actually run two scenarios of a safety threat close to their room location, where an exit is not possible, and a threat located in another part of the building where an exit of the physical building is the safer option. As with all drills, knowing where the exits are, being quiet, and listening to their teacher’s directions are paramount. Once I have the date I will share that information with you so that you are aware.
We will be celebrating Bully Awareness Month with a wear “blue” shirt with uniform bottoms on October 7th. Bully Awareness Day We want all our students to be kind to each other. Harmful words and actions affect everyone in the school environment. A happy, successful school environment is what all our children deserve.
Some “School Band” news for those students in grades 4-8 who play an instrument or who are interested in learning. Music on the Move was unable to hire an instructor to take over at our school, so I have made the decision to switch to Music Education Services. Many local Catholic schools in our area use this group. Mr. Louie Cruz will be our new band director. Tomorrow 10/4 there will be a demonstration concert for 4th & 5th graders during the school day. On Tuesday 10/8 students who are interested will have a “fitting”; which is a chance to talk with the new Band Director and try out different instruments. Students who are in grades 6-8 will have a meet & greet on this day with the director. Sign up information and pricing will come home with students. Band classes are set to start October 15th. Music Education Services (Band)
Prayers and blessings,
Mrs. Buckley, Principal
Calendar Reminders:
Friday 10/4 - Spirit Wear Day, 4th & 5th Band Demo Concert, Carmel Recruitment Visit Grades 6-8
Monday 10/7 - Bully Prevention Awareness Day-Blue shirts with uniform bottoms! Bully Awareness Day
Tuesday 10/8 - Band Fitting 4th/5th/Band Dir. Meet & Greet 6-8 (during school day)
Wednesday 10/9 - No Grayslake Buses (AM)
Thursday 10/10 - 11:00 Early Release/Parent-Teacher Conferences, No Grayslake or Woodland buses (PM), Aftercare is only open for Preschoolers, no other grades due to conferences.
Friday 10/11 - No School-Conferences Continued
Monday 10/14 - No School - Indigenous People’s Day
Tuesday 10/15 - Band Starts, Emil’s Restaurant Night (FSA)
Sports around SGS:
SGS 7th Grade Fall Volleyball Tournament 10/4-10/5 (various times)
Cross Country IESA Sectional Meet (TBD)- 10/12
Fliers:
Holy Fire & Prayer Experiences 4 Teens
Grayslake High School Feeder Basketball Program
Grayslake Feeder Baseball Program
Carmel High School Math Tutors
October 3, 2024
Parent Teacher Conference Sign Up Online Closed
The online signup portal for Parent Teacher Conferences has been closed so that teachers may prepare for conferences.
If you still need to sign up or change your date or time, please contact your students homeroom teacher.
Please contact Lisa Kleber lisa.kleber@stgilbertschool.org with any questions or help needed.
September 26, 2024
Thursday Tidbits
Dear Parents/Guardians,
Our school has a parent organization called “FSA” that plans and carries out many special community building events throughout the school year. They are always looking for parents that want to become involved, to make our school a better place. Below you will find a google sheet with many of the events that are hosted throughout the school year. Some need volunteers to shadow and take over, some need new people to step up to take the place of those who have moved on. Please consider helping in some capacity, you will meet other parents and be giving back to the community with your talents and time.
“Have you been looking to get more involved or volunteer at SGS? The Family School Association has many opportunities to share your time and talents. The commitments range from day of event help, to planning committees, to chairing fun events. Complete the form below with your specific areas of interest and we will reach out with more specific information and needs. Please remember we are all volunteers so it may take time to sort through responses and reach out to you directly. Thank you for all your time and support of FSA.”
https://forms.gle/u3EyU2RyqaXj2xRV8
Scheduling for Parent-Teacher Conferences has begun. All students from Preschool-8th grade will have a conference at this time. Parents can choose “in person” or “virtual” for what best fits your schedule. Students in grades 4-8 must be present with parents for whatever form is chosen.
Conferences are on October 10th which is an early dismissal at 11:00, and will conclude on Friday, October 11th.
Special Note: The Aftercare Program will only be open on 10/10/24 for Preschool students!
There have been many families that are not aware of the Aftercare Hours for school year 2024-25. Aftercare is open M-Th from 2:00-5:30, and Fridays from 2:00-5:00. There is a late fee that will be assessed as $5.00 for the first (5) minutes after closing, and then you will be charged $3.00 per additional minute. Please be considerate of the staff that are working in this area. Many are teachers or other staff that have worked all day and want to get home to their families. If you run into a traffic issue, please call aftercare staff so they know you are on your way. I am still looking for Aftercare help M-Th from 3:00-5:30, and Fridays 3:00-5:00. This is a nice part-time gig for someone looking for a little extra money! Contact: kris.buckley@stgilbertschool.org if you are interested.
Alert! Ordering Deadline Approaching!
Help us celebrate Saint Gilbert School's 80th Anniversary by wearing our limited edition 1944 Saint Gilbert School shirt! There will be special days added throughout the year to wear this special item!
Cost: $15
Order deadline: 9/27/24
Click the link below to order.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1LZoqbbxBOx_sfka7MgS5AZzuf32YbEGPABKYulvmQoM/edit
Thank you for the great response to our new German Club, it is now at capacity and closed to further enrollment.
We still have some table space open for our 80th Anniversary Gala, registration closes October 3rd as we have a deadline for final food count. To purchase tickets go to: https://SGSGALA2024.give smart.com
We are looking for volunteers for our Halloween Surprise on 10/31 during the school day 8:00-12:30. We need; decorated car trunks, volunteers to hand out candy at trunks, volunteers to help at fire pit and game areas, and nut-free candy and/or trinket donations. All ages will be attending this special surprise to celebrate Halloween and the reaching of our Fun Run goal as a school!
Blessings to all you REBELS!
Mrs. Kris Buckley, Principal
Calendar Reminders:
9/27 - No School (Teacher PD)
10/3 - No Grayslake Buses (AM/PM)
10/4 - Spirit Wear Day
Rebel Sports:
9/30 - Soccer vs. Westlake 5:00 (H), Cross Country Meet 4:30 @ Allegheny Park
10/4 & 10/5 - 7th Grade Girls Volleyball Tournament hosted by SGS
Fliers:
September 20, 2024
Childhood Cancer Awareness Day
Dear Families,
Next Thursday 9/26 Student Council is leading a fundraiser to support Cancer Awareness, and specifically to support their classmate, Carter H. who is valiantly fighting an ongoing battle with cancer. Students can dress down and wear yellow tops and accessories if they bring in $1.00 or more for this cause. All donations will be sent to Lurie Children's Hospital. We will be taking an all-school photo & video on this day to send to Carter to let him know we are rooting for him, and praying for his swift recovery.
Childhood Cancer Awareness Dress Down
Happy Friday,
Mrs. Kris Buckley, Principal & SGS Student Council
September 19, 2024
Thursday Tidbits
Dear Parents/Guardians,
We are wrapping up with the iReady Diagnostic K-8 (fall testing) this week. You can see how your child scored by asking them to sign into the iReady Program and showing you the testing results on their screen. Printed results will be available during your conference with your child’s teacher in early October. We will be doing conferences with all grades including Preschool. Parents will have the option to select “in-person” or “virtual” for what best fits your schedule. We use a sign-up form and start with the families with the most children first. This will be sent out next week.
Yesterday, we celebrated the “First Day of School” 80 years ago! We sang Happy Birthday and enjoyed a piece of cake! We are proud to represent and be a part of such a great school-and we look forward to a future of many more years to come. https://www.wevideo.com/view/3553427419
A friendly reminder to my car driving parents in the morning and afternoon. Please do not pull onto Wicks St. until a little before 7:00. If you arrive early I expect that you will stage in our East parking lot until at least 6:55. Neighborhood streets cannot handle (3) lines of traffic, they are just not wide enough. In the afternoon our dismissal has been going very well, however I want to remind everyone not to block driveways on Slusser St.. I have received a couple resident phone calls. If you arrive around 1:50 there is generally no need to wait on side streets, you will be able to pull right in! If you must get here early, again, stage in the East parking lot. We send a staff member over there every day to wave you on!
Thank you all for participating in our Fun Run fundraiser. We raised $49,500 for our building project. There were also many families that took advantage of the matching programs at their workplaces, if all that money is received there is another $7200 waiting in the wings. We are planning for an all-school reward on Halloween.....more details to come as we get closer. If you are interested in decorating a trunk and handing out candy for this special surprise please email me. This will be during the school day from 8:00-1:00. kris.buckley@stgilbertschool.org
Our school directory is ready! This handy document provides you access to parent contact information. Please use it with respect for the privacy of all the school families. Contact the school office or reference Thursday Tidbit email for link.
*Hard Copies of the directory are available for purchase from the school office for $5. Send in payment with a note that you would like to purchase a directory and one will be sent home.
Job Opportunity: We need additional help in our Aftercare Program, this would be weekdays (M-F) when school is in session. Hours are 3:00-5:30 M-Th, 3:00-5:00 Fridays. Competitive compensation available to qualified candidates. We are open to interviewing young adults who are responsible, and attending CLC, or parents/grandparents who just want a small part-time job in the afternoon. Contact: kris.buckley@stgilbertschool.org, or dawn.beagles@stgilbertschool.org
Enjoys these warm fall days!
Mrs. Kris Buckley, Principal
Calendar Reminders:
9/20 - Spirit Wear Day
9/25 - FSA Restaurant Night-Lou Malnati’s (grayslake location only) Lou Malnati's Restaurant Night
9/26 - Kindergarten Apple Fest 12:30 (Invite sent to parents by Kindergarten teachers)
9/27 - No School-Teacher PD
Sports Around SGS (home events)
9/19 - Boys soccer game 5:30 pm
9/21 - 5th Grade Girls Volleyball 8:00 am
9/22 - New Family Social that was scheduled for Sunday has been cancelled due to lack of response.
9/24 - Cross Country Meet 4:00 (Alleghany)
9/25 - Boys soccer game 5:00, Girls Volleyball (6th/7th/8th) begins at 6:00pm
Information about our positive behavior program:
SGS Rebel Way- The REBEL WAY is our school wide character mission. We want our students to demonstrate characteristics of the Saint Gilbert REBEL WAY which include, but are not limited to, R-Respect, E- Enthusiastic, B-Big hearted, E- Empathetic, L- Leader. Under each category we focus on kindness, helping others, and creating a culture of happy learners. Students can earn tickets when caught demonstrating the REBEL WAY and can have an opportunity to choose from the prize cart that comes around every Friday.
The prize cart can use your help! If you can please donate items such as trinkets, movie size candy, fidgets, or small toys to the prize cart. We appreciate new items. If you have a donation please send it with your child labeled “prize cart donation.” Rebel Way poster
Thank you to the following families for their Rebel Way Cart donations: Strachan, and Swindell families
Information about sickness from our nurse: This is a friendly reminder of our student health policy:
We are into our first few weeks of school which means school germs are ramping up. In order to keep our students healthy (and in school), please keep your child home until they are well enough to return to school without medication.
Students may NOT return to school until they are 24 hours free of:
- fevers (temperature greater than 100.4)
- vomiting
- diarrhea
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you,
Marissa Herrmann, School Nurse
Link to teacher Amazon Wish Lists:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/14GhL46qT0p42IZUvVQxLn-Nig25OtkGLyrsc7CsBf3U/edit?usp=sharing
Fliers:
Help us celebrate Saint Gilbert School's 80th Anniversary by wearing our limited edition 1944 Saint Gilbert School shirt! There will be special days added throughout the year to wear this special item! T-Shirt Design Graphic
Cost: $15
Order deadline: 9/27/24
Click the link below to order.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1LZoqbbxBOx_sfka7MgS5AZzuf32YbEGPABKYulvmQoM/edit
Gala Donations & Tickets
If you are able to donate items for the Gala here is the sign up link: https://signup.com/go/jHDvXew
To purchase tickets go to: https://SGSGALA2024.give smart.com
September 17, 2024
FSA Meeting
SGS Families,
Please consider joining us for the first FSA meeting of the year. As a parent you are automatically a member of FSA. We will be meeting via zoom at 6:30pm, Wednesday, 9/18. It's a great way to meet new families and get involved in upcoming events for the 24/25 school year.
Topic: September FSA Meeting
Time: Sep 18, 2024 06:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Please see Thursday Tidbit email or contact school office/FSA for link and code.
September 16, 2024
Gala Tickets
Buy your Gala tickets before the price goes up!
https://sgsgala2024.givesmart.com
September 12, 2024
Thursday Tidbits
Dear Parents/Guardians,
A special thank you to all the families who have been supporting our Boosterthon Fundraiser. The goal is to raise $50,000 which will go towards an improved entry to our main school office area, with security enhancements. As with any building project, the costs are usually more than you anticipate, so both this fundraiser and our Gala in October will help defray the costs of this project. It is with your beloved children in mind that we look towards these enhancements, so please consider donating if you have not done so already. We can achieve much when we all work together. Tomorrow 9/13 will be our all school final celebration for this fundraiser. The children will have a time slot to come outside and run the laps for which they have received pledges. Parents are welcome to watch and cheer their students on. See the schedule attached for times each grade is outside. Please park along 120 and in our East Lot.
Putting on my Athletic Director hat, I am asking for parents to sign up their 5-8 graders for the Winter sport of Basketball. I am going to a conference scheduling meeting on 9/17 and need to let the coordinators know how many teams SGS will field for boys and girls by this Friday. If you are interested in coaching a team please email me. Some of you I know from your coaching last year, but for 5th grade I do need volunteer coaches to have a team! I would love confirmation that coaches are willing to coach again this year. kris.buckley@stgilbertschool.org.
Now that our Golf Outing & Boosterthon are over, it is time to turn our attention to our 80th Anniversary Gala. St. Gilbert School was built and opened on September 18, 1944. Next Wednesday’s school mass will celebrate this milestone-and slices of celebratory cake will be given to the children during their lunchtimes! It will be a birthday celebration that lasts for a year!
To help our Gala be successful we need everyone’s help. We would like everyone to attend our grand celebration at Independence Grove on October 18th, but if you cannot attend you can help in other ways. We are looking for donations of themed baskets https://signup.com/go/jHDvXew as well as live auction items; such as vacation homes, tickets to events, basically anything that is an experience that can be shared, along with bottles of wine ($25 more in value) and bottles of whiskey ($35 more in value). We will be having wine & whiskey “pulls” the evening of the event. It has been over 10 years since St. Gilbert has put on a dinner party of this size, so please help to make it the success we know it can be. Guests will enjoy fabulous food & entertainment in a wonderful fall setting with good friends and families from the eight decades of St. Gilbert School.
P.S. A special thank you to some people who helped in extraordinary ways for the golf outing! Mrs. Veras, Mr. Starzec, Mr. Strahan (School Board), Mrs. Greffly & Mrs. Jacobson (Teachers & FSA), & Mr. Teipel (Parent Raffle Seller Extraordinaire!) Thank you so much for your help and support making this event a success.
Enjoy the late summer weather!
Mrs. Kris Buckley, Principal
Friday Fun Run Schedule:
3rd-5th 8:00-8:45 am
PK-2nd 9:00-9:45 am
6th-8th 10-10:45 am
Calendar Reminders:
Thursday 9/12 - Scouting Open House @ SGS Gym 6:30
Friday 9/13 - Fun Run!!! Spirit Wear Day (Bonus!)
Monday 9/16 & Tuesday 9/17 - iReady Diagnostic Reading
SGS Athletics:
9/12- Cross Country Meet-Fox Lake Stanton 4:30
9/18 - Boys Varsity Soccer Match 5:00 @ SGS
9/19 - Boys Varsity Soccer Match 5:30 @ SGS, Girls Volleyball 7:00 & 8:00 @SGS (7th/8th)
Fliers:
Cub Scout Open House Information
80th Anniversary Gala tickets: https://SGSGALA2024.give smart.com
Amazon Wish Lists Teachers: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/14GhL46qT0p42IZUvVQxLn-Nig25OtkGLyrsc7CsBf3U/edit?usp=sharing
St. Gilbert Teen Ministry Events
September 11, 2024
Fun Run Event Schedule
Dear Parent/Guardians,
This Friday 9/13 is scheduled to be our fundraiser concluding event "Fun Run!" Below, you will find the grades and their scheduled times. If you would like to come watch the run, cheer on your student, we welcome you to visit. Please park along 120 or in the East Parking Lot. The event will be in our west lot/recess area in front of the gym entrance. Thank you for supporting our efforts! As of today we are at $32,000 raised towards the goal of $50,000. We still have (3) days remaining to get there....I believe we can do it!
Mrs. Buckley, Principal
3rd-5th - 8:00-8:45am
PK- 2 - 9:00-9:45am
6th-8th -10-10:45.
September 5, 2024
Thursday Tidbits
Dear Parents/Guardians,
It was lovely to see many of our 1-8 grade parents at Curriculum Night. We look forward to partnering with all our parents for a successful school year. On Friday we will open parent access to Powerschool for grades 2-8. New parents will receive directions on how to set-up their account. iReady Diagnostic testing will begin with the subject of math on 9/9 & 9/10 for grades K-8. Please talk with your child about doing their best, getting enough sleep, and starting out the morning with a good breakfast. This first testing sets them on their path for their weekly lessons, and provides the teachers with an understanding of their strengths and weaknesses.
As a school we are working towards Office of Catholic School goals which are set for excellence; 75% of students achieving their individual goals in both reading and math. At the end of last year our students had met 71% of goals for reading, and 61% of goals for math. These were great increases and propelled us all that much closer to attaining excellence for all our students.
I am looking forward to seeing many school supporters at our Annual Golf Outing this Saturday at White Deer Run! Thank you families, and Board Members for procuring hole sponsorships and registering to golf. This event is now closed.
We have a new bank that allows us to accept payments by Zelle. If you need to send money to us our new contact is: Zelle@stgilbertschool.org. Please make a note in the memo line what the $ is for. Register to play in our Pick’Em NFL Fundraiser to test it out! (details below)
Enjoy the beautiful fall weather!
Mrs. Buckley, Principal
School Calendar Reminders:
Friday 9/6 - School Picture Day (Dress Up)
Saturday 9/7 - SGS Golf Outing 1:00 Shotgun Start, White Deer Run
Monday 9/9 - iReady Diagnostic (K-8)
Tuesday 9/10 - iReady Diagnostic (K-8)
Wednesday 9/11 - No Grayslake Buses (AM)
Friday 9/13 - Fun Run Event! (We need to reach our Boosterthon Goal!), Bonus Spirit Wear Day
Athletic Events this week: Come cheer on your favorite Rebels!
9/5 - First Varsity Boys Soccer Game @ home 5:00
9/7 - GCMS Invite 8:00 Central Park-Cross Country
9/9 - Girls Volleyball 6th & 8th @ home 5:00 & 6:00, Lakes Euro Challenge 4:30 Lake High School, Cross Country
9/10 - Cross Country Meet 4:00 @ Allegheny Park
9/11 - Girls Volleyball 6th/7th/8th @ home 5:00-7:00
9/12 - Boys Soccer at St. Joe’s 6:00
Fundraisers:
Get in on Pick’Em before this evening's first NFL Game!
FOOTBALL AND FUNDRAISING
Like football? Like fun? Come join the SGS NFL Pick'em Survivor pool! Help SGS raise money to invest back into the school. Funds will be used for flooring enhancement by the gym entrance. Please share with family and friends! A great contest for SGS parents and students to enjoy together. Cost to participate is $30. Payments can be made by Zelle using our new school contact: Zelle@stgilbertschool.org
Pick one game each week, survive and advance, lose and you're done. You can only choose a team once. 30% of the pot to the winner, and 70% to SGS. Please use your first/last name when signing up for ease of identification. Questions? Contact: tom.mottola@gmail.com
Sign-up using the free CBS app or on your computer by clicking here
Boosterthon Fundraiser has begun, we have a school goal of $50,000 with money raised going towards an enhanced school entrance and other safety measures. If each student participates we will reach our goal. Many local businesses offer matching incentives that you can use for these donations. The weekend challenge is to get a $2 per lap pledge to earn the Bonus Golden Keychain from Dude Perfect. We are at around $12,00 raised towards our Fun Run goal.
80th Year Celebration Gala:
We are happy to announce that Independence Grove gave us an extension and we will not be raising our Gala ticket prices until September 16th. Please get your tickets ASAP to avoid the price increase. To purchase tickets go to: https://SGSGALA2024.give smart.com
Here is some more information about our 80th Anniversary Through the Decades Gala:
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Our Gala will take place at the beautiful Independence Grove Audubon Hall. We will have access to the inside hall and outside fireplace areas (weather permitting).
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We will be serving a farm to table dinner with options of chicken, beef, or vegetarian.
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There will be an open bar for everyone to enjoy.
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We are excited to announce that we have Brass from the Past as our entertainment for the night. They are Chicago’s premier cover band, rated as one of the best by CBS News.
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We will also have a silent and live auction with many items to bid on.
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We are celebrating the decades so we will have other great activities where we will be highlighting the decades ex: cigar area, wine pull, whiskey pull, and more.
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You can buy tickets individually or you can purchase a whole table. Tables seat 10 people. If you are buying individual tickets you can request to sit with friends.
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Money we raise for this event will go towards our new Welcome Center, updated playground for grade K-8th, updates to our gym entry way, and expenses towards future community building events we host.
We are looking for a few types of donations for our 80th Anniversary Gala; anything you can do is greatly appreciated.
BASKET DONATION: We have several basket ideas to choose from, or you can create your own. We ask that the items in the baskets are worth a minimum of $150. If contributing to an entire basket is too much, please consider signing up with other families.
BOTTLES: We are looking for wine and whiskey for our wine and whiskey pull. We are asking that each wine donated is a minimum of $25 and whiskey a minimum of $35.
EXPERIENCE: We are looking for tickets to a game, a weekend away, a night out, etc.
Thank you for considering a donation! It is because of our wonderful families and parishioners that St. Gilbert is a such a special community! We are looking forward to celebrating 80 years!
If you are able to donate here is the sign up link: https://signup.com/go/jHDvXew
All donations can be dropped off at the St. Gilbert School office by Monday, September 30th.
Fliers:
Knights of Columbus Blood Drive
September 5, 2024
PowerSchool Access
Beginning tomorrow, Friday, September 6th at 3pm parents of students in 2nd - 8th grade will be able to access PowerSchool to check on grades for their students.
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If you have an account already set up, you are good to go.
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If you have an exsisting PowerSchool account and have a 2nd grade student, they have been added to your account.
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If you do not remember your user name or password, please email lisa.kleber@stgilbertschool.org so that instructions can be sent to you.
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If you have never set up a PowerSchool Parent account, a letter will be sent home with your child with instructions on how to set up your account.
If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Kleber.
August 29, 2024
Corrections to Tidbits for 8.29.24
Dear Parents/Guardians,
A couple corrections to my Tidbit communication from today;
There will be Woodland Buses home on 8.30.24.
Friday, September 6th is also School Picture Day, so I hope to see all the students in their "dress up clothes."
Spirit Wear Day will be moved to the day before, Thursday, September 5th.
Lovely to see many of you at Curriculum Night!
Mrs. Buckley, Principal
August 29, 2024
Thursday Tidbits
Dear Parents/Guardians,
We have completed what amounts to one full week of school, and I want to tell you how “sharp” the children look in their uniforms, new backpacks, shoes and haircuts. There is nothing like the “fresh start” feeling of a new school year. Earlier, I had communicated that the iReady Diagnostic would be given this week and next, however due to an upgrade to Powerschool the Archdiocese of Chicago has been having great difficulty syncing iReady to Powerschool and testing will be delayed. This technology issue affects all iReady products that we use in the school. Teachers are doing their best to adjust, as students are not able to access weekly lessons in iReady for reading and math right now.
This week started our Kiddos hot lunch program, and milk will begin after Labor Day. I am enclosing the “Allergy Aware Policy” for your information. This is from the Parent Handbook which is available on our website: stgilbertschool.org. Voluntary Allergy Awareness Policy Food items with nuts, or made from nuts such as peanut butter are not allowed at SGS. We will speak to students kindly in the lunchroom if nuts are present, and ask them to move away from other students to consume the item. Reminders have been given to all students this week by our nurse about being mindful of what is packed in their lunches, and that there is no sharing of food at the lunch table since we cannot control or police food that might have been packaged in a factory where nuts are present, or prepared in restaurants that might have nut products being handled/present. There are no “direct” nuts in any of the food items from the restaurants working with Kiddos.
Grades (1-8) will have Curriculum Night tonight from 6:00-8:00 pm. Please park by the gym and enter the gym doors. We will begin the night in the gym and dismiss parents to go meet with teachers. We will run (3) 20 minute sessions to accommodate families with multiple children. This event is for parents only.
Our first Spirit Wear Day will be Friday 9/6.....our Pop-Up Spirit Wear shop closes at midnight, place your orders now! https://stgilbertgear.itemorder.com/
Respectfully,
Mrs. Kris Buckley, Principal
Calendar Reminders
8/29 - Curriculum Night 6:00-8:00 (1-8 Grade) (gym)
9/2 - No School Labor Day
9/4 - 8:00 All School Mass/Student Council Installation of Officers
9/6 - Spirit Wear Day, Snack Shack Sales begin grades 3-8 during lunches, Powerschool Access for parents activated (grades 2-8)
Special Note: The “New Family” mixer that was scheduled for 9/6 is being rescheduled for a new date.
Fundraising Events
Boosterthon Kick Off 9/4 Information for Families/Boosterthon
SGS Golf Outing, September 7th -Last call to join a fantastic event that supports the school......register ASAP! Register by 9/3 to be entered to win a ticket to the SGS Gala valued at $175. Register at https://SGSGOLF24.givesmart.com
SGS 80th Anniversary Gala - October 18th. Join us as we celebrate 80 years of Catholic Education in Grayslake; plated farm-to-table dinner, open bar, dancing, silent & live auctions! https://sgsgala2024.givesmart.com/
PigSkin Pick’em is back for it's 3rd season! If you love football, and love helping out the school, please join us!
The NFL Season starts Thursday Sept 5, get in on the Survivor Pool to help the school!
FOOTBALL AND FUNDRAISING
Like football? Like fun? Come join the SGS NFL Pick'em Survivor pool! Help SGS raise money to invest back into the school. Funds will be used for new parish center entrance flooring. Please share with family and friends! A great contest for SGS parents and students to enjoy together. Cost to participate is $30. We are setting up a new Zelle payment system with the bank and will follow up for payment after you've registered.
Pick one game each week, survive and advance, lose and you're done. You can only choose a team once. 30% of the pot to the winner, and 70% to SGS. Please use your first/last name when signing up for ease of identification. Questions?
Contact: tom.mottola@gmail.com
Sign-up using the free CBS app or on your computer by clicking here
Family School Association: Our first “Restaurant Night” is planned for 9/25-Lou Malnati’s Pizza in Grayslake (add to your family calendar-flyer to come)
Altar Serving: Attention 5th through 8th graders! It is time to train a new class of Altar Servers. If you would like to become a server, please talk to Fr. Pawel or email Kathy Booher at tschanzkm@yahoo.com. by Sunday, September 15. Training will begin in late September.
August 25, 2024
Spiritwear Shop is Now Open (2024-2025)
Students & Parents,
Spirit wear days occur on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of every month. Every year we work with American Outfitters to create new exciting designs and clothing options. This year is especially special as we are celebrating 80 years of being open as a school! We were incorporated in 1944. There is a fun new shirt design commemorating this milestone. Don't wait to place your orders! The shop will close on August 29th, so that production can begin and orders delivered the week of September 16th. Spirit Wear Shop
https://stgilbertgear.itemorder.com/
Stay cool!
Mrs. Buckley, Principal
August 22, 2024
Thursday Tidbits
Dear Parents/Guardians,
There has been much excitement in the building for the new beginning of the 2024-25 school year. No matter how many years I have worked in education, even the staff has excitement, and some trepidation with the start of each new year-we are no different than students and parents! It has been a very good start.
I want to thank all of the parents and people who drive for being understanding that the first few weeks might have a few hiccups, but with patience we will work things out and you will develop routines that go smoothly.
I am especially thankful to my morning drivers for heeding my “ask” to stage in the East Lot instead of parking along Wicks St. waiting to be let into our lot. That road cannot accommodate parked cars and still have two way passage for the residents who live in that neighborhood. Many of our neighbors are trying to get to the train station or out to the Lake St. light to head off to their jobs. I have asked people to not begin to pull back to Wicks until 6:55-7:00. Buses arrive at school at 7:00, they then have to unload and conduct their safety checks in our lot. The earliest we will be opening the road to car riders is 7:05. This time is contingent upon no late buses. Please be respectful in the neighborhoods, leave a bit of space so cars can get by each other, and do not block driveways.
For the afternoon car pick-ups we are asking for your help in downloading the PikMyKid App, and having your car tags in your vehicles. Once you are within a 5 mile radius of the school “announce” so that when you reach our check-in person, Cindy Reed, she will see the student numbers on her iPad and simply swipe them into the current group of 24 cars being loaded. Parents with students at Aftercare can also use PikMyKid to announce they are on their way. Aftercare staff watch our “announce” screen and begin communicating to the staff outside to send that child in to go home for the day. This is our 4th year using this App, and it is very important to use it to its capability. It is designed to make your and our life easy. Once we get our routines down we can ackomplish pick up within 15 minutes for over 250 cars. You are responsible for entering your child's mode of transportation each day in this App. The front office is not aware of various schedules for bus, car, aftercare, sports practice etc. Please make your changes by 1:00 in the App, if after call the office.
We feel very blessed that you have chosen St. Gilbert school for your children!
Respectfully,
Mrs. Kris Buckley, Principal
Calendar Reminders:
8/23 - Welcome Back Bonfire Junior High (Grades 6-8) 6:00-7:30 Prayer Garden
8/29 - Curriculum Night Grades (1-8) 6:00-8:00 gym (parents only)
8/30 - No Woodland Buses (PM)
9/2 - No School Labor Day
Fliers:
Altar Serving: Attention 5th through 8th graders! It is time to train a new class of Altar Servers. If you would like to become a server, please talk to Fr. Pawel or email Kathy Booher at tschanzkm@yahoo.com. by Sunday, September 15. Training will begin in late September.
August 15, 2024
Thursday Tidbits
Dear Parents/Guardians,
Enjoy the last weekend before the start of school!
I was able to secure a Boys Soccer Coach for our Varsity Team which will include all 5th-8th graders. If you were waiting to pay for this sport please go ahead and finish your registration. I am meeting with the new coach over the weekend and you will be hearing from him next week. There will be some practices on Saturdays, so be prepared for that! Go Rebels!
I am attaching our Aftercare Registration Form so that we can try to get a jump on students using Aftercare for the first day of school. These forms will also be available in the gym the night of Supply Drop Off. Other information tables will include; Gym Uniform purchasing, Music Kids Information, Girls Scouts Information.
Here is the link to our most updated School Calendar: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0?cid=c3RnaWxiZXJ0c2Nob29sLm9yZ190ZW9udGQwcms4YXIwNnNpOXNpNzhhYWphY0Bncm91cC5jYWxlbmRhci5nb29nbGUuY29t
You still have time to order school supplies if you have not yet purchased them for your child:
CLICK HERE TO ORDER ST GILBERT SCHOOL SUPPLIES
For every box sold, School Tool Box provides a meal for a starving child through our partnership with Feed My Starving Children. So it’s a total WIN-WIN! Families can modify their orders at checkout, so if there is an item they already have, they can simply delete it from their order and save that cost. Or they can change quantities and/or add additional items to their boxes if desired. You have ultimate control over the cost of your boxes.
There’s still time for late deciders and last minute shoppers. It only takes a week-10 days to receive supplies; there are also "expedited processing” shipping options available at checkout if needed.
Family School Association
May you be blessed as we start the new year!
Mrs. Kris Buckley, Principal
Calendar Items:
8/17 - Summerfest Parade 4:30-6:00 (Starts at GCHS and ends on Center St.)
8/18 - Used Uniform Sale 9:00-12:00 *gym
Popsicles on the Playground 1:00-2:30 *school playground
8/20 - Supply Drop Off 3:00-5:00
8/21 - First Day of School K-8, Preschool 5-days, and M/W/F. No Woodland Buses (PM)
8/22 - First Day of School for T/TH only Preschoolers
8/23 - School Board Retreat, Welcome Back Bonfire Grades 6-8 only 6:00-7:30 pm
8/29 - Curriculum Night Grades (1-8) 6:00-8:00 pm *gym
Fliers:
https://SGSGOLF24.givesmart.com
August 14, 2024
Preparing for Afternoon Dismissal/School Year 2024-25
Dear Parents/Guardians,
For our afternoon dismissal St. Gilbert School uses an application called PikMyKid for all modes of afternoon transportation. Please follow the instructions to register your student(s.) You will receive (2) card tags in the information that you will pick up from your child's homeroom on supply drop off. The app has features to change mode of pickup, and to add approved pick up people. Changes regarding dismissal mode and times must be entered into the app by 1:00 pm, otherwise a call to the office will be required. Do not be frightened by this new technology, it allows us to move through (6) buses, and over (200) cars on a daily basis in approximately 15 minutes once you all get the hang of it! The first week or so will be a learning process, please be patient, as with all things, practice makes perfect. Keep smiling and show kindness in the car pick up lines. PikMyKid Parent User Sheet
Mrs. Buckley, Principal
August 12, 2024
Kiddos Lunch Ordering/Hot Lunch option
Dear Students & Families,
We are excited to partner with Kiddos Lunch Service to provide an optional lunch program for our families. Get ready for a convenient, flexible, and delicious lunch service that strives to have something on the menu for everyone every day!
Ordering is now open!To see how to order and learn more, please click the attached Kiddos Lunch Info and Ordering Information. Kiddos Ordering Brochure
If you have any questions, please contact Kiddos at support@kiddoscatering.com.
August 8, 2024
Thursday Tidbits
Dear Parents/Guardians,
There is a little over a week before school resumes. We hope you are as excited as we are to begin the new year! Grayslake is having a parade as part of their new Summerfest Event on Saturday, August 17th and families will be walking in the parade to represent SGS. Feel free to join us and wear spirit wear. The parade starts at 4:30, line up is by GCHS. Students under 4th grade must be accompanied by a parent. We will reunify students with parents by The Freeze at the end of the parade route. We have a lovely 80th Anniversary banner to carry in the parade thanks to our School Board President, Mr. Starzec. Don’t forget to register for our Gala celebration happening October 7th at Independence Grove: https://sgsgala2024.givesmart.com/
Students (5th-8th grades) that are registered for fall sports (girls cheer, girls volleyball, boys soccer & cross country) must have fees paid and forms completed before they can participate. Please watch your notifications sent from “Register My Athlete” for what is outstanding.
For our St. Gilbert Golf Outing to be a success we are looking for more golfers to partake. The date of the outing is Saturday, September 7th. Golf lovers please talk with your friends and family and join us at beautiful White Deer Run in Vernon Hills. To encourage early registration, any foursome registering by the end of the day on 8/16 will automatically be entered into a drawing for a “4 in 1” tool from Milwaukee Tool valued at $500. https://SGSGOLF24.givesmart.com
Blessings,
Mrs. Kris Buckley, Principal
Calendar Items:
August 9th - Class placement emails sent out AFTER 3:00 pm.
August 15th - (PK) Parent Meeting (Virtual) 5:00-6:00, (K) Parent Meeting (Virtual) 6:00-7:00
August 17th - Summer Parade 4:30-6:00
August 18th - Used Uniform Sale 9:00-12:00, Popsicles on the Playground for all PK & K students 1:00-2:30.
August 20th - Supply Drop Off 3:00-5:00 pm
August 21st - First Day of school K-8 and M/W/F part-time Preschoolers, Preschoolers with T/Th Schedules being school on August 22nd. No Woodland Bus (PM)
August 23rd - Junior High Welcome Back Bonfire (Grades 6-8 only) 6:00-7:30
iReady Testing Window Opens (fall) August 26th grades K-8
August 27th - In School Band Demo & Registration paperwork
Fliers:
School Picture Day is coming....
St. Gilbert 80th Anniversary Gala:
https://sgsgala2024.givesmart.com/
Blue Devil's Swim Club
August 1, 2024
Thursday Tidbits
Dear Parents/Guardians,
This is the first communication from me for the upcoming school year 2024-2025. I will mostly be covering the start of the school year event dates. I do want to mention that this is our 80th Anniversary as an established school and we will be centering our school theme around the recognition of that. Our year long celebration will feature a fabulous Gala planned for October 18th at Independence Grove. We hope you will all attend or contribute in some way to this event. Tickets and sponsorships are available now using this link: https://sgsgala2024.givesmart.com/
For those of you new to our school, welcome! Each week I will send home communication on Thursdays that is called “Thursday Tidbits.” There will be information directly from the Principal, calendar reminders, and fliers and information from both school and parish events. If you are the chair of a committee or want information conveyed to parents in this communication you must send it to me by Tuesday prior and put your information in a PDF format. Communication goes out using emails pulled from PowerSchool, so if you block the school you will not get notifications. Try to read through information each week, as many things have deadlines attached.
Lastly, I am reiterating our revised Aftercare Hours & Fees for 2024-25. Aftercare will run from 2:00-5:30 M-Th, Friday hours are 2:00-5:00. Aftercare costs are $8.00 per hour per child. If you intend to use Aftercare and your child is in K-8 please fill out a Registration form and pay your $25 enrollment fee at their table in the gym on Supply Drop Off night.
Keep enjoying summer!
Mrs. Kris Buckley, Principal
Calendar Items:
August 9th - Class placement emails sent out
August 15th - (PK) Parent Meeting (Virtual) 5:00-6:00, (K) Parent Meeting (Virtual) 6:00-7:00
August 17th - Summer Days Parade 4:30-6:00
August 18th - Used Uniform Sale 9:00-12:00, Popsicles on the Playground for all PK & K students 1:00-2:30.
August 20th - Supply Drop Off 3:00-5:00 pm
August 21st - First Day of school K-8 and M/W/F part-time Preschoolers, No Woodland Bus (PM)
Preschoolers with T/Th Schedules being school on August 22nd.
August 23rd - Junior High Welcome Back Bonfire (Grades 6-8 only) 6:00-7:30
iReady Testing Window Opens (fall) August 26th grades K-8
August 27th - In School Band Demo & Registration paperwork
August 29th - Curriculum Night Grades (1-8) 6:00-8:00 pm
Upcoming Events & Registrations
* Knights of Columbus Blood Drive: Blood Drive Information
* Chess Club (This is an after school club that meets on Mondays from 2:00-3:00) Three sessions are held yearly, and require separate registration each time. Here is the first registration information for the fall session which begins August 26th. Fall Chess Club 2024
* St. Gilbert Golf Outing:
We are a little over 30 days away from our annual St. Gilbert School Golf Outing and we are looking for golfers to make our event a success. You do not have to be a pro golfer-amatures are welcome! This event is a scramble format and includes lunch. We have selected a premier golf course this year; White Deer Run in Vernon Hills. Get a group together and enjoy an afternoon playing a fabulous course and helping SGS in the process! Registration link: https://SGSGOLF24.givesmart.com
* 80th Anniversary Gala
Information, Sponsorships & Tickets: https://sgsgala2024.givesmart.com/
July 31, 2024
Annual Golf Outing
Dear Families old and new,
If you are looking for a fun way to meet new people, support St. Gilbert, and enjoy nature, please consider joining us for our Annual Golf Outing! This year we are holding our outing at White Deer Run in Vernon Hills on Saturday, September 7th. This is a beautiful course that is located close to where many of you live. Profits from this year's outing will be going to not only support our Athletic Program, but for our main school entry improvements. We hope to improve security, build a welcome atrium, and add pavers and new flooring to our main entrance. Please consider getting a foursome together to help our school have a successful outing! Register today using this link: https://SGSGOLF24.givesmart.com
SGS Golf Outing Team:
Mrs. Kris Buckley, Principal & AD
Mrs. Meaghen Dahm, Head Marketer
Mrs. Lisa Jacobson, Family School Co-Chair
Mr. Victor Rivera, Founder/Volunteer