Volume 2 | Issue 20
Sunday, Feb. 15
- Knights of Columbus District Free Throw Contest
- Adult Basketball - Click to join Signal group here if interested
Monday, Feb. 16
- PRESIDENTS' DAY - NO SCHOOL
- Basketball Practices (Evening)
- Littlest Knights Practice (Evening)
Tuesday, Feb. 17
- 8th Grade Picture Retakes
- Beginner & Intermediate Band Practice (During School)
- Advanced Band Practice (After School)
- Guitar Club (After School)
- Basketball Practice (After School & Evening)
Wednesday, Feb. 18
- Ash Wednesday Student Mass - (During School)
- Chess Club (Lunch/Recess)
- Homework Club (After School)
- Intermediate Band Practice (After School)
- Basketball Practice (After School & Evening)
Thursday, Feb. 19
- Student Assembly (Afternoon)
- Advanced Spanish (Recess)
- Spanish Club Session B (After School)
- Knight Crew Practice (After School)
- Basketball Practice (Evening)
Friday, Feb. 20
- TRIMESTER 2 ENDS
- Montini Catholic Step Up Day
- Pizza Fun Lunch - Click to order
- Home Basketball Games (Evening)
Saturday, Feb. 21
- Home Basketball Games (All Day)
- 8th Grade Basketball Blackout - (5pm, 6pm, 7pm Games)
- Littlest Knights at 5pm Halftime
- Knight Crew at 6 & 7pm Halftimes
The Knight's Watch
The Standard They Leave Behind
There are certain nights in a school year that feel bigger than the scoreboard.
This Saturday night, February 21, when the lights go down and the black and gold fill the St. Pius X gym, we won’t just be watching basketball games. We will be witnessing legacy.
Our 8th grade Knights will take the floor at home for the final time. For many of them, this gym has been part of their story for years — from nervous 5th graders learning the ropes, to confident leaders now setting the tone. Hours of practices. Away games in Mokena. Tough losses. Big wins. Countless moments that shaped more than athletes — they shaped character.
That’s what makes Blackout Night special.
This Saturday night, February 21, when the lights go down and the black and gold fill the St. Pius X gym, we won’t just be watching basketball games. We will be witnessing legacy.
Our 8th grade Knights will take the floor at home for the final time. For many of them, this gym has been part of their story for years — from nervous 5th graders learning the ropes, to confident leaders now setting the tone. Hours of practices. Away games in Mokena. Tough losses. Big wins. Countless moments that shaped more than athletes — they shaped character.
That’s what makes Blackout Night special.
It’s loud. It’s electric. It’s packed. But beneath the noise is something deeper: gratitude. Gratitude for the coaches who gave their time. Gratitude for parents who drove, volunteered, and cheered. Gratitude for teammates who became brothers and sisters in competition. And gratitude for a school community that believes athletics are an extension of our faith — Strength in Faith, Pride in Play.
These 8th graders leave behind more than stats. They leave behind a standard.
They showed younger Knights how to lead warm-ups. How to shake hands after a tough game. How to represent St. Pius X with class. They’ve worn the jersey with pride — and now it’s our turn to show up for them.
So here’s the call: Pack the gym. Wear black. Be loud. Stay for all three games. Cheer for every basket, every defensive stop, every dance performance. Let our 8th graders feel the full force of what it means to be part of something bigger than themselves.
Because one day soon, they’ll look back on this place — this gym, this school, this community — and remember how it felt when their Knight family stood behind them.
Let’s give them the send-off they’ve earned.
Once a Knight, Always a Knight.
These 8th graders leave behind more than stats. They leave behind a standard.
They showed younger Knights how to lead warm-ups. How to shake hands after a tough game. How to represent St. Pius X with class. They’ve worn the jersey with pride — and now it’s our turn to show up for them.
So here’s the call: Pack the gym. Wear black. Be loud. Stay for all three games. Cheer for every basket, every defensive stop, every dance performance. Let our 8th graders feel the full force of what it means to be part of something bigger than themselves.
Because one day soon, they’ll look back on this place — this gym, this school, this community — and remember how it felt when their Knight family stood behind them.
Let’s give them the send-off they’ve earned.
Once a Knight, Always a Knight.
— The Mighty Knight
St. Pius X Gala & Fundraiser Auction
Thank you St. Pius X
The St. Pius X Annual Gala & Fundraiser Auction, held on Saturday, February 7, was a tremendous success and a joyful celebration of our parish and school community. This year’s theme, A Knight at the Races, set the tone for an evening filled with fellowship, excitement, and generous support for our school.
Guests enjoyed a variety of activities throughout the evening, including selecting winning horses for a chance to take home a custom bottle of Maker’s Mark. The live auction featured several memorable and meaningful experiences, such as Principal for the Day, a drive to school in a police car, a Pope Leo White Sox jersey, and an autographed Taylor Swift album. A highlight of the evening was the paddle raise in support of the Educator Excellence Endowment Fund, which helps supplement the compensation of our dedicated Catholic school teachers.
As the evening concluded, many guests gathered on the dance floor, bringing the celebration to a spirited close. When the final totals were announced, the generosity of the St. Pius X community was evident. Through their support, the gala raised over $100,000 for the school.
We extend our sincere gratitude to all who attended, donated, volunteered, and helped make this event such a meaningful success. Your continued support strengthens our mission and ensures a bright future for St. Pius X Parish School.
Guests enjoyed a variety of activities throughout the evening, including selecting winning horses for a chance to take home a custom bottle of Maker’s Mark. The live auction featured several memorable and meaningful experiences, such as Principal for the Day, a drive to school in a police car, a Pope Leo White Sox jersey, and an autographed Taylor Swift album. A highlight of the evening was the paddle raise in support of the Educator Excellence Endowment Fund, which helps supplement the compensation of our dedicated Catholic school teachers.
As the evening concluded, many guests gathered on the dance floor, bringing the celebration to a spirited close. When the final totals were announced, the generosity of the St. Pius X community was evident. Through their support, the gala raised over $100,000 for the school.
We extend our sincere gratitude to all who attended, donated, volunteered, and helped make this event such a meaningful success. Your continued support strengthens our mission and ensures a bright future for St. Pius X Parish School.
Additional Auction Opportunities
Although the gala evening has concluded, several items remain available for purchase. We invite you to take a moment to review these offerings, as there may still be experiences that you or your student would enjoy.
We are continuing to raise funds for a brand new Mighty Knight mascot costume, which will enhance school spirit at athletic events, assemblies, and community celebrations. Your support in this effort is greatly appreciated.
Students may also have the opportunity to participate in the always popular Students vs. Staff Volleyball Game — a fun and spirited event that brings our community together in friendly competition.
In addition, twelve lucky students will enjoy a special lunch experience with Mrs. Pauley, Mrs. Kirchoff, and Mrs. Monk. This afternoon will include lunch, dessert, and games, providing a memorable opportunity for fellowship and fun.
We encourage you to review the remaining items and consider participating. Your continued generosity directly supports the mission and future of St. Pius X Parish School.
Although the gala evening has concluded, several items remain available for purchase. We invite you to take a moment to review these offerings, as there may still be experiences that you or your student would enjoy.
We are continuing to raise funds for a brand new Mighty Knight mascot costume, which will enhance school spirit at athletic events, assemblies, and community celebrations. Your support in this effort is greatly appreciated.
Students may also have the opportunity to participate in the always popular Students vs. Staff Volleyball Game — a fun and spirited event that brings our community together in friendly competition.
In addition, twelve lucky students will enjoy a special lunch experience with Mrs. Pauley, Mrs. Kirchoff, and Mrs. Monk. This afternoon will include lunch, dessert, and games, providing a memorable opportunity for fellowship and fun.
We encourage you to review the remaining items and consider participating. Your continued generosity directly supports the mission and future of St. Pius X Parish School.
The Week in Photos: Sharing the Love at SPX
There was a whole lot of red walking the halls of St. Pius X this week as Valentine’s Day celebrations took place across every grade level. From our youngest learners through middle school, students donned the color red and filled their classrooms with treats, laughter, creative Valentine boxes, and the simple joy of celebrating friendship.
It was a wonderful reminder that what makes SPX special is not just the events themselves, but the spirit behind them — kindness, gratitude, and community.
We also captured a special moment from our Gala & Fundraiser Auction. The winner of the “Dance Coach for the Day” experience, Giada Pesola, stepped into leadership at Knight Crew practice and did a fantastic job running rehearsal. Great work, Giada — the team was in great hands!
In addition to our Valentine’s Day celebrations, we’ve added photos from the St. Pius X Gala & Fundraiser Auction to this week’s gallery. It was an unforgettable night for our community, and we love reliving those moments.
Have photos of your own from the Gala or classroom celebrations? We invite you to share them so we can continue showcasing the joy and pride that make SPX such a special place.
It was a wonderful reminder that what makes SPX special is not just the events themselves, but the spirit behind them — kindness, gratitude, and community.
We also captured a special moment from our Gala & Fundraiser Auction. The winner of the “Dance Coach for the Day” experience, Giada Pesola, stepped into leadership at Knight Crew practice and did a fantastic job running rehearsal. Great work, Giada — the team was in great hands!
In addition to our Valentine’s Day celebrations, we’ve added photos from the St. Pius X Gala & Fundraiser Auction to this week’s gallery. It was an unforgettable night for our community, and we love reliving those moments.
Have photos of your own from the Gala or classroom celebrations? We invite you to share them so we can continue showcasing the joy and pride that make SPX such a special place.
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
All St. Pius X adult members — school and parish — are asked to complete a minimum of 6 volunteer hours each year to help support and strengthen our community.
Volunteer opportunities and hour tracking are now centralized through MobileServe. The platform includes a digital bulletin board of service opportunities and will serve as the official place to log all volunteer hours, whether through school events, athletics, parish ministries, or outreach efforts.
This initiative is now formally known as the St. Pius X Service Society. For questions about service expectations or opportunities, contact servicesociety@stpiuslombard.org
.
A MobileServe Getting Started Guide is attached with instructions for downloading the app, creating an account, joining the St. Pius X Adult Volunteers group, and logging hours accurately.
Volunteer opportunities and hour tracking are now centralized through MobileServe. The platform includes a digital bulletin board of service opportunities and will serve as the official place to log all volunteer hours, whether through school events, athletics, parish ministries, or outreach efforts.
This initiative is now formally known as the St. Pius X Service Society. For questions about service expectations or opportunities, contact servicesociety@stpiuslombard.org
.
A MobileServe Getting Started Guide is attached with instructions for downloading the app, creating an account, joining the St. Pius X Adult Volunteers group, and logging hours accurately.
Current Families Register Now!
2026-27 School Year is Registration is OPEN.
(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
Sunshine, Smiles, and Summer Care
SPX Summer Care is a weekly summer program for children ages 3-5, offered over 11 weeks this summer (with the exception of June 28-July 3 due to parking lot work and school deep cleaning).
Each themed week is filled with hands-on activities, creative play, outdoor fun, and faith-filled moments - all led by our trusted SPX staff in a safe, nurturing environment.
The program runs Monday-Friday from 8:30 AM-3:00 PM and offers flexible week-by-week registration. Whether you need full summer coverage or just a few "Mom's Free Days," SPX Summer Care is a joyful and convenient option for your family.
Please we aware that:
- You child must be registered at St. Pius X Parish School for the 2026-27 school year.
- Space is limited. Your spot is not held until you complete the online registration and pay
- Children must be potty trained to attend.
- Limit of 20 students per week
- $250 per week
St. Pius X at the Lombard Lilac Parade!
Calling all dancers, athletes, scouts, band members, and more! St. Pius X is excited to announce our participation in the Lombard Lilac Parade on May 17th! This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our school pride and bring the St. Pius X community together for a fun and memorable event! Sign up by May 1st.
Stay tuned for more details on how you can get involved, what to expect, and how we’ll represent St. Pius X in this beloved local tradition. We can’t wait to see our students, families, and friends coming together to make this a fantastic day!
Mark your calendars and get ready to march with us on May 17th!!! Theme: Happy 250th Birthday America! For questions, please email spxdance@aol.com
Stay tuned for more details on how you can get involved, what to expect, and how we’ll represent St. Pius X in this beloved local tradition. We can’t wait to see our students, families, and friends coming together to make this a fantastic day!
Mark your calendars and get ready to march with us on May 17th!!! Theme: Happy 250th Birthday America! For questions, please email spxdance@aol.com
Thank you to everyone who came out to support our Knights Out at Culver’s! It was so great seeing so many Pius families there and having our amazing teachers and staff serving throughout the evening. We truly packed the building — and the drive-thru!
Thanks to your incredible support, we raised $700 for our school. We are so grateful for this wonderful community.
Thank you again!
Thanks to your incredible support, we raised $700 for our school. We are so grateful for this wonderful community.
Thank you again!
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!
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 we head toward the final stretch of the season, our Knights continue to compete with heart and determination across all grade levels.
Leading the way on the boys side, 7A (8–2) and 8B (8–2) are having outstanding seasons, with 7B close behind at 7–2. 5A is battling hard at .500 (5–5), while 6A continues to compete in a tough division.
On the girls side, our teams continue to show resilience and growth throughout the season, with several close contests reflected in their scoring margins. Every group continues to improve, support one another, and represent SPX with pride.
As a school, the Knights have tallied 43 wins and over 1,800 points scored this season. We are proud of the effort, sportsmanship, and commitment shown by all of our student-athletes.
Strength in Faith, Pride in Play.
Leading the way on the boys side, 7A (8–2) and 8B (8–2) are having outstanding seasons, with 7B close behind at 7–2. 5A is battling hard at .500 (5–5), while 6A continues to compete in a tough division.
On the girls side, our teams continue to show resilience and growth throughout the season, with several close contests reflected in their scoring margins. Every group continues to improve, support one another, and represent SPX with pride.
As a school, the Knights have tallied 43 wins and over 1,800 points scored this season. We are proud of the effort, sportsmanship, and commitment shown by all of our student-athletes.
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.
8th Grade Basketball Blackout
The 8th Grade Basketball Blackout is almost here — and it promises to be one of the most meaningful and electric nights of the year at St. Pius X.
On Saturday, February 21, we celebrate the final home games and final performances for our 8th grade Knights in both Basketball and Dance. This annual Blackout tradition is more than a game night — it is our rose ceremony, honoring our 8th grade athletes and their families and celebrating the journey they have taken as Knights.
Each 8th grade team will be recognized prior to their game. Families are asked to be present before tip-off so they can take part in this special ceremony. It is a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the dedication, growth, and leadership these students have shown throughout their time at SPX.
Game Schedule
St. Pius X Gym
5:00 PM – 8A Girls vs. St. Raymond
Halftime Performance: Littlest Knights
6:00 PM – 8B Boys vs. All Saints
Halftime Performance: Knight Crew
7:00 PM – 8A Boys vs. Queen of Apostles
Halftime Performance: Knight Crew
All games will be streamed live on the KCA Broadcasting Network - See button below.
The evening will feature high-energy basketball, packed stands, and performances from both our Littlest Knights and Knight Crew — a full celebration of our athletics program and school spirit.
Adding to the excitement, Auction Experience winner and 1st grader Patrick Gillespie will take over as Athletic Director for the night, helping cheer our Knights on to victory.
Fans are encouraged to wear black and bring the energy. Be sure to order your collectible 2026 Basketball Blackout T-shirt before the store closes on Monday, February 16 at 12:00 PM - See button below.
Come ready to celebrate, support, and send off our 8th grade Knights in true Pride in Pius fashion.
Get ready for the biggest night in middle school sports.
On Saturday, February 21, we celebrate the final home games and final performances for our 8th grade Knights in both Basketball and Dance. This annual Blackout tradition is more than a game night — it is our rose ceremony, honoring our 8th grade athletes and their families and celebrating the journey they have taken as Knights.
Each 8th grade team will be recognized prior to their game. Families are asked to be present before tip-off so they can take part in this special ceremony. It is a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the dedication, growth, and leadership these students have shown throughout their time at SPX.
Game Schedule
St. Pius X Gym
5:00 PM – 8A Girls vs. St. Raymond
Halftime Performance: Littlest Knights
6:00 PM – 8B Boys vs. All Saints
Halftime Performance: Knight Crew
7:00 PM – 8A Boys vs. Queen of Apostles
Halftime Performance: Knight Crew
All games will be streamed live on the KCA Broadcasting Network - See button below.
The evening will feature high-energy basketball, packed stands, and performances from both our Littlest Knights and Knight Crew — a full celebration of our athletics program and school spirit.
Adding to the excitement, Auction Experience winner and 1st grader Patrick Gillespie will take over as Athletic Director for the night, helping cheer our Knights on to victory.
Fans are encouraged to wear black and bring the energy. Be sure to order your collectible 2026 Basketball Blackout T-shirt before the store closes on Monday, February 16 at 12:00 PM - See button below.
Come ready to celebrate, support, and send off our 8th grade Knights in true Pride in Pius fashion.
Get ready for the biggest night in middle school sports.
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.
St. Pius X Liturgical Dance Ministry
Calling all dancers grades 1-8 who want to use their talent and passion for dancing to praise God!
When is practice?
Practice will be held on Thursdays: March 5, 12, 19, 26, April 9th after school from 3:15-4:00 PM.
Mass: We will pray through dance at Mass on Sunday April 12th at 10 AM.
When is practice?
Practice will be held on Thursdays: March 5, 12, 19, 26, April 9th after school from 3:15-4:00 PM.
Mass: We will pray through dance at Mass on Sunday April 12th at 10 AM.
Knights of Columbus Blood Drive
(click flyer to register)
