Volume 2 | Issue 19
Sunday, Feb. 8
- Gala Clean Up - Click to sign up to help
Monday, Feb. 9
- Spanish Club Session A (After School)
- Homework Club (After School)
- Basketball Practices (Evening)
- Littlest Knights Practice (Evening)
Tuesday, Feb. 10
- Beginner & Intermediate Band Practice (During School)
- Advanced Band Practice (After School)
- Guitar Club (After School)
- Basketball Practice (After School & Evening)
Wednesday, Feb. 11
- Student Mass - (During School)
- Chess Club (Lunch/Recess)
- Homework Club (After School)
- Intermediate Band Practice (After School)
- Basketball Practice (After School & Evening)
Thursday, Feb. 12
- VALENTINE'S DAY CLASSROOM PARTIES
- Advanced Spanish (Recess)
- Spanish Club Session B (After School)
- Knight Crew Practice (After School)
- Basketball Practice (Evening)
- PSA Meeting - LRC (7pm)
Friday, Feb. 13
- NO SCHOOL - TEACHERS' INSTITUTE DAY
- Father Daughter Dance - (Evening)
Saturday, Feb. 14
- Valentines' Day
- Hallmark Industrial Complex Appreciation Day
The Knight's Watch
It's a Big Weekend to Be a Knight
With the excitement of the St. Pius X Gala and Fundraiser Auction alongside the energy of the Super Bowl, our community is surrounded by moments of celebration, connection, and joy. These moments matter. They bring us together and remind us that faith is meant to be lived in community.
At the same time, our Catholic tradition gently reminds us to celebrate with awareness. The Church doesn’t warn against joy — it cautions against overindulgence. The virtue of temperance calls us to enjoy good things without letting them control us.
At the same time, our Catholic tradition gently reminds us to celebrate with awareness. The Church doesn’t warn against joy — it cautions against overindulgence. The virtue of temperance calls us to enjoy good things without letting them control us.
It’s about balance, self-discipline, and remembering what truly gives meaning to our celebration.
At the Gala, that meaning is clear. We gather not just for a night out, but to support a mission — forming minds, hearts, and souls. Our joy is rooted in purpose, generosity, and gratitude.
As Knights, we are called to celebrate responsibly, to be mindful of our choices, and to remember that how we celebrate reflects who we are.
And if you haven’t made plans yet — it’s not too late. There’s still time to join us at the St. Pius X Gala and Fundraiser Auction, be part of an unforgettable evening, and support the mission that unites us all.
Celebrate well. Live intentionally. Give generously.
As Knights, we are called to celebrate responsibly, to be mindful of our choices, and to remember that how we celebrate reflects who we are.
And if you haven’t made plans yet — it’s not too late. There’s still time to join us at the St. Pius X Gala and Fundraiser Auction, be part of an unforgettable evening, and support the mission that unites us all.
Celebrate well. Live intentionally. Give generously.
— The Mighty Knight
St. Pius X Gala & Fundraiser Auction
Last Chance to Buy Discounted Tickets
One of the most anticipated events of the St. Pius X school year is fast approaching—our Gala & Fundraiser Auction, a night where community, celebration, and purpose come together in true Knightly fashion.
The Gala is more than an evening out. It is a cornerstone event that directly supports the mission of St. Pius X Parish School, helping us bridge the gap between tuition and the true cost of providing a faith-filled, academically excellent education. From supporting programs and resources to investing in our students and staff, every bid placed and every paddle raised strengthens the future of our Knights.
As always, the Auction will feature a curated lineup of experiences, outings, and one-of-a-kind packages designed to bring families and friends together. And to kick things off in a big way, one item is already stealing the spotlight.
A True Knight at the Races
And they’re off! One of the most entertaining feature activities at this year’s St. Pius X Gala and Fundraiser Auction will be our Kentucky Derby–style horse racing experience.
Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy three thrilling races, each featuring between 18 and 20 horses. Every race will include official post positions and odds, giving guests the chance to study the field, trust their instincts, and place their bets.
Here’s how it works: each bid on a horse is a flat $20, and each horse is capped at a maximum of 10 bids. Once the race begins, it’s all about cheering your horse down the stretch and hoping they cross the finish line first.
Winners of each race will be rewarded in true Kentucky fashion with a custom, St. Pius X–branded bottle of Maker's Mark Bourbon — a perfect keepsake and a great way to toast a winning pick.
Fast-paced, high-energy, and full of friendly competition, the Gala races are sure to be a highlight of the night. Whether you’re feeling lucky or just in it for the fun, this is one feature you won’t want to miss.
🏇 How Does Virtual Horse Racing Work?
How many races are there?
There will be three races during the Gala & Auction, each featuring 18–20 horses.
What do the odds mean?
Horses with lower (or “shorter”) odds are considered more likely to win.
Odds are for fun only and do not affect the value of the winnings.
How do I place a bet?
• Each bet is $20 per horse
• Bets are placed through the GiveSmart auction site
• You can scan the QR code at the event or place bets online here: http://e.givesmart.com/events/KD8/page/horseracing/
How do I win?
If your horse finishes first, you win a custom St. Pius X–labeled bottle of Maker’s Mark bourbon.
How many bets can I place?
• Each horse can have up to 15 bets
• Each winning bet earns one bottle of bourbon
• Yes — if all 15 bets land on the winning horse, that’s 15 bottles 🥃
🎉 More Than the Races
The Gala also features:
• Incredible themed baskets
• Unique experiences and outings
• One-of-a-kind, class-made items
• Dining, entertainment, and family favorites
Most importantly, it’s a night to gather, celebrate, and serve together as a St. Pius X community.
We hope you’ll join us for a memorable evening supporting our school — and enjoying what truly is the most fun SPX night of the year.
See you Saturday!
How many races are there?
There will be three races during the Gala & Auction, each featuring 18–20 horses.
What do the odds mean?
Horses with lower (or “shorter”) odds are considered more likely to win.
Odds are for fun only and do not affect the value of the winnings.
How do I place a bet?
• Each bet is $20 per horse
• Bets are placed through the GiveSmart auction site
• You can scan the QR code at the event or place bets online here: http://e.givesmart.com/events/KD8/page/horseracing/
How do I win?
If your horse finishes first, you win a custom St. Pius X–labeled bottle of Maker’s Mark bourbon.
How many bets can I place?
• Each horse can have up to 15 bets
• Each winning bet earns one bottle of bourbon
• Yes — if all 15 bets land on the winning horse, that’s 15 bottles 🥃
🎉 More Than the Races
The Gala also features:
• Incredible themed baskets
• Unique experiences and outings
• One-of-a-kind, class-made items
• Dining, entertainment, and family favorites
Most importantly, it’s a night to gather, celebrate, and serve together as a St. Pius X community.
We hope you’ll join us for a memorable evening supporting our school — and enjoying what truly is the most fun SPX night of the year.
See you Saturday!
The Week in Photos: 100 (and 101) Days
Big smiles and even bigger milestones across campus this week! Our Preschool 4 students kicked things off with their very own Olympic Opening Ceremony, complete with fanfare and flair. Kindergarten and 1st grade proudly marked 100 Days of School, celebrating growth, grit, and how far they’ve come. Not to be outdone, 2nd grade put a creative spin on things with 101 Dalmatians Day, turning the hallways into a spot-tacular celebration. Once again, our students found joyful, imaginative ways to learn and celebrate together.
A Valentine’s Toast That Gives Back
Looking for a post-Valentine’s experience that’s romantic, relaxed, and just a little indulgent—without fighting the weekend crowds? This is a great opportunity to enjoy a memorable night out while supporting St. Pius X.
Join fellow SPX families and friends on Monday, February 17 at 6:30 PM for a five-course Italian wine dinner at Avanzare Italian Restaurant. The evening brings together outstanding food, exceptional wine, and community in an intimate setting.
Join fellow SPX families and friends on Monday, February 17 at 6:30 PM for a five-course Italian wine dinner at Avanzare Italian Restaurant. The evening brings together outstanding food, exceptional wine, and community in an intimate setting.
The dinner will feature wines from Luca Bosio Vineyards and the acclaimed Cortonesi La Manella Family Vineyards. A local wine and spirits expert will host the evening, joined by third-generation winemaker Tomasso Cortonesi, who will guide guests through each course while sharing insights from his family’s Tuscan vineyards.
Wines for the evening include Arneis and Moscato whites, a Super Tuscan red blend, a Rosso di Montalcino, and a Brunello di Montalcino paired with the final savory course before dessert. Guests will also enjoy access to select older vintages and single-vineyard offerings not listed on the menu.
The cost is $99 per person, with tax and gratuity not included. Ten percent of all ticket sales will benefit St. Pius X Parish School. Reservations can be made by calling (630) 317-7076, and guests should mention St. Pius X when booking.
It’s a wonderful way to extend the Valentine’s celebration, enjoy a thoughtfully curated dining experience, and give back to the SPX community. Cheers to an unforgettable evening.
Wines for the evening include Arneis and Moscato whites, a Super Tuscan red blend, a Rosso di Montalcino, and a Brunello di Montalcino paired with the final savory course before dessert. Guests will also enjoy access to select older vintages and single-vineyard offerings not listed on the menu.
The cost is $99 per person, with tax and gratuity not included. Ten percent of all ticket sales will benefit St. Pius X Parish School. Reservations can be made by calling (630) 317-7076, and guests should mention St. Pius X when booking.
It’s a wonderful way to extend the Valentine’s celebration, enjoy a thoughtfully curated dining experience, and give back to the SPX community. Cheers to an unforgettable evening.
Of Interest to our 7th Grade Families
Tracking Volunteer Hours at St. Pius X
Dear St. Pius X Parish Families,
As members of the St. Pius X Catholic Community—whether you are connected through the school, the parish, or both—we ask that all adult members log a minimum of 6 hours of volunteer service throughout the year. This shared commitment strengthens our mission, builds community, and ensures that the many programs and ministries of St. Pius X continue to thrive.
To make this easier and more organized, we are centralizing both volunteer opportunities and hour tracking within MobileServe. Within the platform, you will find a digital bulletin board of service opportunities, making it simple to see where help is needed and how you can get involved.
To give this aspect of our community a name and a home, we are officially introducing the St. Pius X Service Society. If opportunities are ever needed or questions arise regarding service expectations, you may reach out directly at servicesociety@stpiuslombard.org.
We will be using MobileServe to track all volunteer hours in one convenient location. Whether your service takes place through school events, athletics, parish ministries, or community outreach, all hours should be logged in MobileServe.
Attached is the MobileServe Getting Started Guide, which walks you through:
- Downloading the app
- Creating your account
- Joining the St. Pius X Adult Volunteers group
- Logging your hours accurately
Attachment: MobileServe Getting Started Guide for St. Pius X Adult Hours
Thank you for the many ways you support St. Pius X through service. Your time and generosity are a vital part of who we are as a Catholic community.
With gratitude,
Fr. Matt Nathan
Current Families Register Now!
2026-27 School Year is Registration is OPEN.
Registration Fees increased by $50 February 1st!
Re-register now!
(click to go to FACTS Family Portal)
Financial Aid Information from the
Diocese of Joliet Catholic Schools Office
Additional Upcoming Events
Stay Tuned and Mark Your Calendars for the
SPX Summer Programs
Knight’s Out at Panda Express!
Join us for a delicious Knight’s Out fundraiser on Thursday, February 19, at Panda Express (Lombard). Dine in, take out, or order online and 20% of event sales will be donated back to St. Pius X School. Simply show the flyer (or mention the fundraiser) in person, or use the fundraiser code when ordering online. It’s an easy—and tasty—way to support our school. We hope to see you there!
Join us for a delicious Knight’s Out fundraiser on Thursday, February 19, at Panda Express (Lombard). Dine in, take out, or order online and 20% of event sales will be donated back to St. Pius X School. Simply show the flyer (or mention the fundraiser) in person, or use the fundraiser code when ordering online. It’s an easy—and tasty—way to support our school. We hope to see you there!
Spring Cleaning for a Cause!
The St. Pius X PSA is partnering with Savers once again this April—an easy way to declutter and support our school at the same time! Drop off your gently used clothing during after-school pickup on April 14 (2:45–4:00 pm) or before school on April 15 (7:30–8:30 am). St. Pius earns 20¢ per pound, so every bag makes a difference. No extra trips needed—just bring your donations to school on the designated dates. Let’s work together to reach our goal of 6,000 pounds!
Knights Basketball Update
As the season continues to move quickly, our Knights basketball teams have been putting in the work across all grade levels. Collectively, SPX teams have recorded 39 wins this season, competing hard night in and night out while representing our school with pride.
Several squads have made strong pushes in the standings. Boys 7B continues an impressive run, sitting atop their division with a 7–1 record, while Boys 7A and Boys 8B are both firmly in contention, each posting 7 wins and strong point differentials. Boys 5A has also shown steady progress, battling through a competitive schedule.
On the girls’ side, our teams continue to grow and gain valuable experience, with hard-fought games across every division. While the win column doesn’t always tell the full story, the development, resilience, and teamwork on display each week speak volumes about the commitment of our student-athletes.
With league play nearing its final stretch, the focus remains on finishing strong, supporting one another, and continuing to compete the right way. We’re proud of every Knight for their effort, sportsmanship, and dedication to the season.
Strength in Faith, Pride in Play.
Several squads have made strong pushes in the standings. Boys 7B continues an impressive run, sitting atop their division with a 7–1 record, while Boys 7A and Boys 8B are both firmly in contention, each posting 7 wins and strong point differentials. Boys 5A has also shown steady progress, battling through a competitive schedule.
On the girls’ side, our teams continue to grow and gain valuable experience, with hard-fought games across every division. While the win column doesn’t always tell the full story, the development, resilience, and teamwork on display each week speak volumes about the commitment of our student-athletes.
With league play nearing its final stretch, the focus remains on finishing strong, supporting one another, and continuing to compete the right way. We’re proud of every Knight for their effort, sportsmanship, and dedication to the season.
Strength in Faith, Pride in Play.
Knights Track & Field Registration is Open!
Registration is now open for St. Pius X Knights Track & Field, and we’re excited to welcome runners, jumpers, and throwers to another great spring season!
Track & Field at SPX is more than just competition—it’s an opportunity for students to grow in confidence, discipline, and teamwork while staying active in a supportive, faith-filled environment. Whether your child is brand new to the sport or ready to compete at a high level, there’s a place for them on the track.
Who Can Participate
- Competitive Team (Grades 5–8)
- Season runs March–May
- Practices up to 4x per week (1.5 hours) at St. Pius X and Willowbrook High School
- Meets on Saturdays
- Registration Fee: $65
- Singlet Requirement: $30 (reusable for Cross Country & Track; not required if you already have one that fits)
- Developmental League (Grades 3–4)
- Introductory program focused on fundamentals and fun
- Practices 2x per week, aligned with the competitive team
- Culminates in a season-ending meet (date TBD)
- Registration Fee: $50
- Perk: Free uniform shirt included
We’re proud members of the Suburban Parochial League (SPL) and continue our athletics tradition of Strength in Faith, Pride in Play.
Coaches Needed!
Track & Field is a sport where the more coaches, the better—and no prior experience is required. Whether you’ve coached before or are interested in helping for the first time, we’d love to have you join our team.
Youth Ministry is Alive and Thriving at SPX!
Youth ministry, you might ask? What exactly IS youth ministry? Youth ministry offers a safe space for teens in our parish to come & gather to learn more about our Catholic faith. Is it like religion class? No, not exactly. The teens develop fellowship, are openly encouraged to ask questions about our faith, dig a little deeper into Catholicism, and have a new outlet to hang out in. They will learn more about who they are, their relationship with God, and gain faith encounters and experiences they may otherwise miss out on. Give YM a try - ya never know what God has planned for YOU!
Contact Gina at gwiedman@spxlombard.org to find out more.
Knights of Columbus Blood Drive
(click flyer to register)
