Volume 2 | Issue 30
Sunday, May 3
- Adult Basketball - Click to join Signal group here if interested
Monday, May 4 - TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK
- SPX Athletics - SPL and Dev Team Track & Field Practice (Evening)
- Homework Club (After School)
Tuesday, May 5
- Beginner & Intermediate Band Practice (During School)
- iCook Enrichment Group (After School)
- Advanced Band Practice (After School)
- SPX Athletics - SPL Team Track & Field Practice (Evening)
- First Holy Communion School Mass (Morning)
- First Holy Communion Reception (Following Mass)
- Homework Club (After School)
- Intermediate Band Practice (After School)
- SPX Athletics - SPL and Dev Team Track & Field Practice (Evening)
Thursday, May 7
- 8th Grade Boat Trip (All Day)
- Amigos Conversational Spanish Club - Optional for Grades 6-8 (Recess)
- Bricks for Kidz Enrichment Group (After School)
- SPX Athletics - Track & Field SPL Practice (Evening)
Friday, May 8
- FIELD DAY (ALL DAY)
- Advanced Band Practice (During School)
- Beginner Band Practice (After School)
- 8th Grade Dance (Evening)
Saturday, May 2
- SPX Athletics Track & Field SPL Team Co-Ed Relay Meet
The Knight's Watch
Stay Connected
There’s a simple truth that often gets lost in the noise of busy schedules, practices, homework, and everything else that fills our days: if you stay connected to the right source, everything else tends to fall into place.
Think about it—nothing thrives when it’s cut off from what gives it life. A phone without a charger doesn’t last long. A team that stops communicating starts to fall apart. Even the strongest athlete can’t perform without rest and proper fuel.
The same is true for us.
There’s a simple truth that often gets lost in the noise of busy schedules, practices, homework, and everything else that fills our days: if you stay connected to the right source, everything else tends to fall into place.
Think about it—nothing thrives when it’s cut off from what gives it life. A phone without a charger doesn’t last long. A team that stops communicating starts to fall apart. Even the strongest athlete can’t perform without rest and proper fuel.
The same is true for us.
We spend a lot of time trying to fix things on the surface—stress, frustration, distractions, even relationships. But often, those things aren’t the root issue. The deeper question is this: what are we connected to?
When we stay connected to Christ, something changes. Not always instantly, and not always in ways we expect—but steadily, quietly, things begin to align. Decisions become clearer. Patience grows. Perspective shifts. We’re not just reacting to life—we’re grounded in something stronger than it.
And here’s the key: connection doesn’t happen by accident.
It’s built in the small moments. A quick prayer before the day begins. Showing up at Mass. Choosing kindness when it’s easier not to. Taking a breath and remembering who we are and whose we are.
For our families, this matters even more. Kids don’t just learn from what we say—they learn from what we prioritize. When they see faith as something we stay connected to, not just something we visit occasionally, it becomes part of who they are too.
At the end of the day, we can chase a lot of things—success, recognition, comfort. But if we lose connection to what truly gives life, those things won’t satisfy for long.
Stay connected to Christ—everything else follows.
-The Mighty Knight
And here’s the key: connection doesn’t happen by accident.
It’s built in the small moments. A quick prayer before the day begins. Showing up at Mass. Choosing kindness when it’s easier not to. Taking a breath and remembering who we are and whose we are.
For our families, this matters even more. Kids don’t just learn from what we say—they learn from what we prioritize. When they see faith as something we stay connected to, not just something we visit occasionally, it becomes part of who they are too.
At the end of the day, we can chase a lot of things—success, recognition, comfort. But if we lose connection to what truly gives life, those things won’t satisfy for long.
Stay connected to Christ—everything else follows.
-The Mighty Knight
This week at St. Pius X, two beautiful traditions gave us moments worth holding onto—each in its own way bringing our community together.
May Crowning was a powerful expression of our faith in action. Students gathered in reverence and joy to honor the Blessed Mother, a reminder of the deep-rooted traditions that continue to shape who we are. There’s something special about seeing our young people take part in something so timeless—carrying forward a legacy of devotion with sincerity and grace.
May Crowning was a powerful expression of our faith in action. Students gathered in reverence and joy to honor the Blessed Mother, a reminder of the deep-rooted traditions that continue to shape who we are. There’s something special about seeing our young people take part in something so timeless—carrying forward a legacy of devotion with sincerity and grace.
On the other end of the spectrum, our Middle School Variety Show lit up the stage with energy, creativity, and a whole lot of personality. From music and dance to comedy and unexpected talents, our students didn’t just perform—they owned the moment. It was a celebration of confidence, courage, and the willingness to step into the spotlight and share their gifts with the community.
A special thank you to Mr. Andy Klinko—our man in the lift—for capturing every moment and recording all of the amazing acts so our community can relive the show.
Two very different events—one rooted in tradition, the other bursting with creativity—but both a perfect reflection of what makes St. Pius X such a special place.
A special thank you to Mr. Andy Klinko—our man in the lift—for capturing every moment and recording all of the amazing acts so our community can relive the show.
Two very different events—one rooted in tradition, the other bursting with creativity—but both a perfect reflection of what makes St. Pius X such a special place.
Tuition Assistance & Fundraising Program
provided via RaiseRight
Over 1000+ brands available. Purchase physical gift cards or e-gift cards which are instantly available to you on the RaiseRight app. Every brand offers a percentage of face value which gets sent back to St. Pius X, of which 70% is applied directly to your tuition bill and 30% helps the school as a fundraiser. Buy gift cards of brands you use everyday!
Done with tuition for the 2025/2026 school year?
Tuition credits will accrue toward the 2026/27 school year, so…
- Buying everyday essentials?
- Filling up your car?
- Dining out?
- Planning a vacation?
- Planning a home project?
- Have a business?
- Need a gift for a client, friend or family?
- Want to show appreciation for your teachers and staff?
Enrollment code: 7L79582C9713
…Think Manna First!
Frances and John Schweihs Catholic Education Scholarship
2026–2027 School Year
Frances and John Schweihs were devoted, long-time parishioners of St. Alexander Parish who generously served in many ministries. Frances was a graduate of St. Alexander School (Class of 1930), and their commitment to Catholic education continued through their family—each of their six children, as well as three grandchildren, also graduated from St. Alexander School.
In honor of their legacy, the Frances and John Schweihs Catholic Education Scholarship is awarded annually to support families seeking a strong Catholic education for their children. This scholarship reflects the sacrifices Fran and John made for their own family and continues their mission of making Catholic education accessible to others. Today, their family extends this opportunity to parish families of both St. Alexander and St. Pius X.
One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded for the 2026–2027 school year. In addition to the scholarship application, families must also apply for financial aid through FACTS Management as part of the Diocese of Joliet process: https://factsmgt.com/
The application is below and should be returned to the School or Parish Office upon completion.
We encourage all eligible families to apply and take advantage of this meaningful opportunity to support Catholic education.
2026–2027 School Year
Frances and John Schweihs were devoted, long-time parishioners of St. Alexander Parish who generously served in many ministries. Frances was a graduate of St. Alexander School (Class of 1930), and their commitment to Catholic education continued through their family—each of their six children, as well as three grandchildren, also graduated from St. Alexander School.
In honor of their legacy, the Frances and John Schweihs Catholic Education Scholarship is awarded annually to support families seeking a strong Catholic education for their children. This scholarship reflects the sacrifices Fran and John made for their own family and continues their mission of making Catholic education accessible to others. Today, their family extends this opportunity to parish families of both St. Alexander and St. Pius X.
One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded for the 2026–2027 school year. In addition to the scholarship application, families must also apply for financial aid through FACTS Management as part of the Diocese of Joliet process: https://factsmgt.com/
The application is below and should be returned to the School or Parish Office upon completion.
We encourage all eligible families to apply and take advantage of this meaningful opportunity to support Catholic education.
Congratulations to our Spring Raffle Winners
Congratulations to our 2026 Spring Raffle Winners, drawn at this year’s Art Show! Thank you for your support of St. Pius X Parish School.
- Gregory Carreon — $5,000
- Amy Ocampo — $500
- Connie Listwan — $500
- Maria Whiteside — $250
- Tommy Green — $250
- Randy Ocampo — $250
- Alexandra Anos — $250
- Walter Pappageorge — $250
Knights Track & Field Season is Under Way!
The finish line is in sight for our St. Pius X Track & Field season, and it all comes down to this Saturday.
Our Knights will compete in the Suburban Parochial League Championship Meet on May 2—a culmination of weeks of early mornings, late practices, cold-weather meets, and steady improvement across every event.
From sprints to distance, relays to field events, our student-athletes have put in the work. They’ve battled the elements, pushed through fatigue, and continued to grow—not just in performance, but in confidence, toughness, and team unity.
This meet is more than just times and distances. It’s an opportunity for our athletes to compete at their best, represent St. Pius X with pride, and finish the season the right way—together.
We’re proud of how far this group has come. Now it’s time to go compete.
Good luck to all of our Knights this Saturday.
Strength in Faith, Pride in Play.
You can view results from that first meet here:
https://www.athletic.net/TrackAndField/meet/655894/results
Our Knights will compete in the Suburban Parochial League Championship Meet on May 2—a culmination of weeks of early mornings, late practices, cold-weather meets, and steady improvement across every event.
From sprints to distance, relays to field events, our student-athletes have put in the work. They’ve battled the elements, pushed through fatigue, and continued to grow—not just in performance, but in confidence, toughness, and team unity.
This meet is more than just times and distances. It’s an opportunity for our athletes to compete at their best, represent St. Pius X with pride, and finish the season the right way—together.
We’re proud of how far this group has come. Now it’s time to go compete.
Good luck to all of our Knights this Saturday.
Strength in Faith, Pride in Play.
You can view results from that first meet here:
https://www.athletic.net/TrackAndField/meet/655894/results
Upcoming Events
The SPX Glow Run returns on Saturday, May 30 at 6:30 PM, bringing our school, parish, and alumni community together for one of the most exciting nights of the year. This year features a new “Touch of Color,” adding the energy of a color run to our signature glow-in-the-dark celebration.
The Glow Run is not just about running—it is a full evening for everyone. Students, parents, alumni, and friends are all invited to take part, whether that means running, walking, cheering, or simply enjoying the atmosphere. Participants will rotate through 15-minute, age-based heats, creating a fun and fast-paced experience for all.
There are three simple ways to be part of the night:
The Glow Run is a celebration of community, energy, and the close of another great school year. We invite all SPX families to come out, bring friends, and be part of a night that continues to grow each year.
The Glow Run is not just about running—it is a full evening for everyone. Students, parents, alumni, and friends are all invited to take part, whether that means running, walking, cheering, or simply enjoying the atmosphere. Participants will rotate through 15-minute, age-based heats, creating a fun and fast-paced experience for all.
There are three simple ways to be part of the night:
Participate
Register by Friday, May 15 to receive an official Glow Run t-shirt and finisher medal. All are welcome to join, regardless of pace or participation level.Accessorize
Enhance your experience with Glow Tickets, which can be used throughout the event for food, drinks, games, and glow gear. Tickets will be available at the event, but pre-purchasing offers the best value and allows you to jump right into the fun.Sponsor
Families and local businesses are invited to support the event through sponsorship opportunities, with recognition at the event and on the official Glow Run t-shirt.The Glow Run is a celebration of community, energy, and the close of another great school year. We invite all SPX families to come out, bring friends, and be part of a night that continues to grow each year.
We’re excited to announce our first Family Book Exchange to kick off summer reading!
Event overview
Join us for a summer filled with fun and reading!
Event overview
- Drop off: Starts now — gently used books welcome (babies through adults)
- Event: The Great St. Pius Book Exchange
- Come shop: Monday, May 18 and Tuesday, May 19
- Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Location: St. Pius Social Center
- Refresh your home library and find “new-to-you” titles for summer
- Support a culture of reading across our school community
- SPX Children will receive summer reading logs to track their progress. Logs will be based on grade-level.
- Students who turn in logs at the start of next school year will earn fun rewards, including a dress-down day coupon, free ice cream (with purchase), and more fun goodies!
Join us for a summer filled with fun and reading!
St. Pius X Vacation Bible School: Rainforest Falls – Registration Now Open
Get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure! St. Pius X Vacation Bible School, Rainforest Falls, will take place June 15–19, 2026 from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM. Children will journey through the rainforest jungle as they discover how God is present in our lives each day, learning alongside inspiring saints who trusted in Him.
VBS is open to Rising Kindergarten through Rising 5th Grade students, with a cost of $30 per child.
Families are asked to complete a registration form (one per child) and return it with payment to the Parish Office, attention to Gina. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.
For questions or more information, please contact Gina at gwiedman@spxlombard.org
or 630-627-4526.
Join us for a week of faith, fun, and discovery this summer at St. Pius X!
Get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure! St. Pius X Vacation Bible School, Rainforest Falls, will take place June 15–19, 2026 from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM. Children will journey through the rainforest jungle as they discover how God is present in our lives each day, learning alongside inspiring saints who trusted in Him.
VBS is open to Rising Kindergarten through Rising 5th Grade students, with a cost of $30 per child.
Families are asked to complete a registration form (one per child) and return it with payment to the Parish Office, attention to Gina. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.
For questions or more information, please contact Gina at gwiedman@spxlombard.org
or 630-627-4526.
Join us for a week of faith, fun, and discovery this summer at St. Pius X!
SPX Summer Care is a weekly summer program for students enrolled preschool through second grade for the 2026-27 school year. It is 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:
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
SPX Athletics Summer Camps Announced
St. Pius X Athletics is excited to offer a full lineup of Summer Camps for students of all ages, providing opportunities for young Knights to stay active, build skills, and have fun throughout the summer.
The season begins with Intro to Sports Camp (June 1–5) for students in Kindergarten through 4th grade, focusing on fundamental athletic skills, coordination, and teamwork. Young dancers can join Intro to Dance Camp (June 8–11) for students entering Pre-4 through 1st grade, introducing the basics of dance in a fun and welcoming environment.
Athletes can continue developing their skills at Volleyball Camp (June 22–26) for grades 3–8 and Basketball Camp (July 13–17) for grades 3–8, both emphasizing skill development, gameplay, and teamwork.
Dancers entering grades 2–8 can participate in Dance Technique Camp, held on select evenings from July 9 through August 13, focusing on building technique and preparing for future performances.
The summer concludes with Strength & Conditioning Camp (July 20–24) for grades 5–8, designed to help students improve strength, agility, endurance, and overall athletic performance.
These camps provide a great opportunity for students to stay active, develop new skills, and enjoy the spirit of St. Pius X Athletics all summer long.
St. Pius X Athletics is excited to offer a full lineup of Summer Camps for students of all ages, providing opportunities for young Knights to stay active, build skills, and have fun throughout the summer.
The season begins with Intro to Sports Camp (June 1–5) for students in Kindergarten through 4th grade, focusing on fundamental athletic skills, coordination, and teamwork. Young dancers can join Intro to Dance Camp (June 8–11) for students entering Pre-4 through 1st grade, introducing the basics of dance in a fun and welcoming environment.
Athletes can continue developing their skills at Volleyball Camp (June 22–26) for grades 3–8 and Basketball Camp (July 13–17) for grades 3–8, both emphasizing skill development, gameplay, and teamwork.
Dancers entering grades 2–8 can participate in Dance Technique Camp, held on select evenings from July 9 through August 13, focusing on building technique and preparing for future performances.
The summer concludes with Strength & Conditioning Camp (July 20–24) for grades 5–8, designed to help students improve strength, agility, endurance, and overall athletic performance.
These camps provide a great opportunity for students to stay active, develop new skills, and enjoy the spirit of St. Pius X Athletics all summer long.
St. Pius X at the Lombard Lilac Parade!
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! All are welcome!!
Dear SPX Families,
As we wrap up the school year, we want to hear from you. The School Board's annual end-of-year survey takes just a few minutes and helps shape the direction of our school community.
Please take a moment to share your feedback using the button below
The survey will close May 15th. Thank you for your time and your continued investment in St. Pius X.
Thank you,
Stephen Bannon
School Board President
St. Pius X Parish School
As we wrap up the school year, we want to hear from you. The School Board's annual end-of-year survey takes just a few minutes and helps shape the direction of our school community.
Please take a moment to share your feedback using the button below
The survey will close May 15th. Thank you for your time and your continued investment in St. Pius X.
Thank you,
Stephen Bannon
School Board President
St. Pius X Parish School
Upcoming Events & Reminders!
"Pizza with a Purpose" – our special Knights to Dinner event!
Teacher Appreciation Week: Help us show our staff they are "Nacho Average" teachers from May 4th through May 8th. We have fun planned all week long, so please scan the QR code on the event flyer to sign up and donate.
"Pizza with a Purpose" – our special Knights to Dinner event!
- When? Every Monday in May, from 10:30 AM to 8:30 PM.
- What? Order yummy pizza (or anything else!) from Dominick's for lunch or dinner. You can pick it up or have it delivered.
- Why? Just mention St. Pius X School when you order, and Dominick's will donate up to 20% of your regular-priced order back to our school!
Teacher Appreciation Week: Help us show our staff they are "Nacho Average" teachers from May 4th through May 8th. We have fun planned all week long, so please scan the QR code on the event flyer to sign up and donate.
The SPX Service Society connects members of our St. Pius X community with meaningful opportunities to serve one another. When a need arises within our school or parish community, we share it — giving families, students, and parishioners a simple and organized way to step in and lend a hand.
Helping counts toward your St. Pius X volunteer hours! Remember to log in MobileServe (see article above, "Tracking Volunteer Hours")
Helping counts toward your St. Pius X volunteer hours! Remember to log in MobileServe (see article above, "Tracking Volunteer Hours")
PSA Needs Help!
We can always use help with our events. We are currently looking for help with our remaining 2025-26 school year events. Please check the tabs at the top of the page at the link below.
We can always use help with our events. We are currently looking for help with our remaining 2025-26 school year events. Please check the tabs at the top of the page at the link below.
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.
We’d like to share with you some our upcoming events in the next two months. Flyers with additional information are attached below.
World Youth Day 2027 : July 30 – August 9, 2027
Seoul, Korea (Optional pre-tour of South Korea and optional post-tour of Vietnam)
World Youth Day 2027 : July 30 – August 9, 2027
Seoul, Korea (Optional pre-tour of South Korea and optional post-tour of Vietnam)
- The Diocese of Joliet is inviting all young adults(must be 18 by July 1, 2027)for World Youth Day in Seoul, Korea! Join us as we take part in the largest gathering young Catholics in the world. This pilgrimage offers an extensive tour of South Korea and also offers an option for a pre-tour to see more of South Korea, as well as a post-tour in Vietnam. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime opportunity! Proceeds from our pilgrimages are used to support our office as well as the seminarians during their formation. The vocations office is always looking for ways to support our diocesan young adults in their journeys, if you’re unable to join us at World Youth day but you are interested in sponsoring or contributing to the young adults desire to join us, you can call our office at 815-221-6171 or you can email us atvocations@dioceseofjoliet.org
