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Posted August 17th

Meet the Teacher was a great beginning to an even greater year here at Sts. Peter and Paul Academy. Parents and students were enthusiastic as they greeted each other. Many were just smiling as they caught up with old friends. Others greeted and welcomed new families and students to the SPPA family. Everyone seemed genuinely happy to be back to school again!

Mrs. Donnelly started the program off by thanking all the volunteers who had given so much time this summer to make the school look so wonderful. She went over a brief list of items and encouraged all parents to read their packets. Communication is essential to any organization. If there are any problems or questions, she asked that parents come to her after they speak with the classroom teacher first. While there was an Academic Team running the school last year, Mrs. Donnelly is the Principal this year and will be in charge of the day to day operations of the Academy.

Sheila Lichtenberg spoke representing the Board of Directors. She also welcomed everyone and thanked them again for being here, and being a part of the SPPA Community. She reiterated that the Board will be focusing this year on developing policy and procedures. They will also be working on various fundraisers. She invited anyone with suggestions or ideas to feel welcome to share them with her.

Teachers were introduced to the crowd. Each one spoke briefly about their experience and expectations for the year. All were excited and eager to begin our 2nd year at SPPA. Each classroom teacher took more time in their individual rooms to describe the focus for the year and to answer any questions from parents or students.

Mrs. Donnelly graciously arranged an "Ice Cream Social" following the introduction of the Teachers. Everyone enjoyed the delicious sundaes and the conversations with their friends, the children and the teachers. It is truly going to be another great year at Sts. Peter and Paul Academy!

Teachers will be at the Academy on Monday for an In-Service day. They will be at Mother Theresa Catholic Elementary School for an In-Service day on Tuesday. Mrs. Donnelly and Mrs. Hubble will be working in the office at SPPA Tuesday. School starts Wednesday for a regular full day, beginning at 8am and ending at 2:45pm. Thursday and Friday will be full days as well, with the Family Picnic starting at 5pm Friday evening at Koenig Park. Raffle tickets can be turned in up until the drawing begins at 5pm.

If you have any questions about the school day, drop off or pick-up procedures, uniforms, etc. please call the school office at 761-SPPA (7772). You may also check the school page by clicking the link at the top of this page. Many of your questions may be answered there.

Please continue to pray for the success of this mission. Please join us for the traditional Thursday Rosary. We are coming up on 2 years of praying the Rosary each Thursday night, rain or shine, at 6pm in front of the Mary statue in front of the Academy. If you cannot join us, please offer your prayers up at that time. We pray for the children, the staff, the families and the supporters of SPPA. May God continue to pour His blessings out upon this project.

Thank you for your support of this Mission - continuing to teach children about God each day in the Catholic tradition while raising the bar on Academics. 

Posted August 13th

It's getting very close to school opening. Meet the Teachers is this Sunday. This Thursday and Saturday are the last days to put the finishing touches on the school to have it beautiful for the new year. Volunteers are needed to help wrap up the loose ends that remain to be done. Doors will be open at 6pm Thursday as we pray the Rosary and work will start at 6:30. Saturday, doors to the Academy will be open from 9am-3pm. The day will not include any training as previously mentioned. It will just be to finish preparing the building for Meet the Teacher and the first week of school. Thank you to those dedicated parents and supporters who have given freely of their time, talents and treasures this summer to make the Academy warm and welcoming to all who walk through its doors. Thank you to all those who have labored in the summer sun to keep the grounds looking so well groomed and trimmed to all who pass by our school. 

Sunday, Meet the Teacher will be held in 2 sessions. 5th-8th grade will meet from 2-3pm. K-4th grade will meet from 4-5pm. Besides meeting our new Principal, Mrs. Glenda Donnelly, parents will get a chance to meet our wonderful, dedicated staff. As one parent recently commented, "The teachers at our school are one of its biggest strengths. I think the teachers we have here are the best in the state." Parents will also be introduced to the newest addition to our staff, Mrs. Tammy Leisinger. She will be teaching the 3rd/4th grade combined class and we are so happy to welcome her to the SPPA family.

Mrs. Donnelly will have a few words, teachers will get to take the parents to the classrooms and refreshments will be served. There will also be the traditional Uniform Exchange. You may contact Terri with any questions about the exchange at siestababe@cinci.rr.com  

The first day of school is a full day on Wednesday, August 20th at regular time 8:00am- 2:45pm. The Family Picnic, to be held at Koenig Park on Friday, August 22nd, is an open celebration for the whole community of Academy supporters. Please plan on attending this fun event, which starts at 5pm. A cash grill of $1 hot dogs, hamburgers, brats and metts, as well as pop and bottled water for 50 cents each will be available. This is a family style picnic with guests being asked to bring a dish to share. Family games, split-the-pot and the new Reverse Drawing will entertain the crowd. If you haven't gotten your Reverse Raffle ticket yet, please contact any family from the Academy. They will gladly sell you a chance to win $1000! If you have any questions about the picnic, please contact the Academy at 513-761-7772.

Please continue to pray for the success of this mission. With God all things are possible, but it is through us that He works. So if God is calling you to get your hands dirty this week to get the school clean and ready for the children, please listen to Him. Thank you!

Posted August 8th

A special surprise awaited the group who prays the Rosary on Thursday evening. A happy reunion - several of the recent 8th grade graduates were back at the Academy. They came bearing gifts!

The gift from the former 8th grade class was 2 beautiful new rugs with the logo for the entrance ways. After they proudly displayed them for all to see, they promptly placed them down and wiped their feet on them as they walked into the school. Reminiscing and laughing, they checked out the school and the new Library.

Thank you class of 2008! Your generous gift will be useful and welcoming to all who enter the Academy doors.

Following the Rosary, another Academy family brought their pressure washer and garden tools and started making the entrance sidewalks look trimmed and clean. Thanks so much! 

Another group of volunteers worked on clearing the Gym and Hallways as others worked in the Library. 

It must have been the night for gifts.  Mr. Harmeyer pulled up in his truck with 2 beautiful new 6' tall hand-built wooden shelves for the new Library. Thank you so much for the time and talent you share with the children of St. Pete's. These aren't the first shelves Mr. Harmeyer has built for the Academy, but they are the largest.

Thanks to all the volunteers who have been putting in so many hours in the Library. It has taken days to sort through the books and put them all in order. These ladies have been spending early mornings through hot days until evenings carrying books, weeding out worn books and alphabetizing. We appreciate you Ann, Mary and Terri! Thanks to them and their families for their time and talent, the Library is nearly finished and looks fantastic. 

Saturday will be a big day for volunteers to wrap up the project list that remains. While Bob started on the hallways last night, there will still be work to be done on them. All large items left in the Gym are being moved to a storage unit which has been donated. The doors to the Academy will be open from 9am-3pm for anyone willing to lend a hand. Thank you for helping prepare the building for the children. 

This is going to be a great new year!

Posted August 7th

Parents Club met at the Academy last night with a good turn out of enthusiastic parents. President Deb Scholz ran a time-efficient meeting. All business was taken care in a little over 1 hour. Of course parents still like to stay around and socialize, catch-up and just chat. It was great to get the ball rolling into the new school year.

Several ideas for fundraisers were brought up, as well as those that were done last year. Evaluation of which fundraisers were easiest and most profitable was discussed. In the September meeting, there will be a vote as to which top fundraisers, the Parents Club will put their efforts towards. If anyone has suggestions, please contact: Debbie Scholz, Dave McDaniel, Carrie Wolf or Julie Bronner - the Parents Club officers.

Board member, Missie Conner, stated during the meeting that Parents Club raised a lot of money last year. She has asked Mrs. Donnelly for a list of items from the teachers that would benefit the children. She mentioned that the money PC raises can go towards big items that we would like for our children to have, such as a portable Smart Board. There is already a fund started that is designated for a Smart Board and we already have the projector to go with it. She asked for ideas from everyone as to what they have seen at other schools and what they would like to see in the classrooms at the Academy for the children.

While the PC meeting was going on in the Cafeteria, Terri, Ann, Mary and Jim were hard at work in the Library stocking the shelves with books and preparing the room. Thank you so much for giving all the time and energy that has gone into that project. The children will be thrilled with their new Library!

Remember, we pray the Rosary every Thursday evening at 6pm in front of the Academy. Directly following that, the doors are open for the volunteers to start working on the projects that remain. Help in the Library would be appreciated. Clearing out items from the Gym also remains to be finished. A list of projects is posted on the Cafeteria bulletin board. Volunteers can pick where they would like to use their energy. All help is appreciated! Saturday will also be a work day at the school, when everyone is welcome to help prepare the school for the children. Volunteers are needed from 9am-3pm for whatever amount of time you can donate.

Another reminder of what is coming up - A Cleaning Training Day will be held at the Academy on Saturday, August 16th. This will serve a dual purpose. All parents are asked to attend to be trained on: where and how to use cleaning supplies and learn how to use the new backpack vacuum bought by Parents Club, as well as to do the final cleaning to prepare the school for the new year. This does count towards your volunteer hours. We want the Academy to shine for the children when they arrive for their first day on Wednesday, August 20th as well as for the Meet the Teachers on Sunday, August 17th.

Thank you to all of the wonderful parents and supporters who have made this Academy possible through your charitable gifts of time, talents and treasure. May God continue to pour forth his blessings on this project!

Posted August 3rd

The lazy days of summer are slipping away and the first day of school is quickly approaching. Parents are beginning to search for the school supply lists. Here is an easy link for the entire school supply list. 

Volunteers worked this week on getting the Cafeteria back in order and emptying the gym. Some painting and woodworking was completed. Storage areas have been sorted and re-organized to make the best use of space. Thanks to Mike, Joe, Bonnie, Nancy, Don, Jim, Mary, Matt, Gabe, Laura, Sandy, Anita, Dianne, Chris, Jim and all the volunteers, for the work you accomplished this week. Thanks to Terri, Ann and their group for getting the library books in order. Little by little the list of tasks is getting completed. Volunteers are still needed these last few weeks before school starts - Everyone is appreciated for what they can contribute. Work will be going on Thursday evening directly following the Rosary and on Saturday, 9am-3pm.

Generous donations of chairs and more library books were picked up from one of our wonderful friends of the Academy. Thanks so much! A call came in to donate a paper shredder the day it was posted on the website. God is so good to us. The power of prayer is amazing. We continue to meet and to pray the Rosary faithfully for the success of this mission. Please join us every Thursday evening at 6pm in front of the Academy. If you cannot join us, please offer up your prayers at that time with ours. 

You can mark your calendars for the first school Mass - Wednesday, August 27th at 1:45pm in the gymnasium at the Academy. We are pleased to announce that Father David Howard will be celebrating this year's first school Mass with the children. The community is invited and all guests are welcome to attend.

Please pass the word about this wonderful mission. Catholic education is alive and well in the Valley. Tell your neighbors and friends that there is a choice if they are looking for a warm and welcoming school, filled with enthusiasm and the "Spirit". This Academy is a little gem tucked away only a few blocks from Reading & Galbraith Intersection and Ronald Reagan Cross County Highway. It is easily accessible from all over the county. Tuition is affordable and the student to teacher ratio is very desirable. The students, staff and parents are a wonderfully friendly group, easy to get to know and become a part of.

These days it is tempting to pass on a Catholic education and use the money saved on other material things. However, giving your child the gift of a Catholic education will last them their whole life. Making the choice to send your child to a Catholic grade school may not be the easiest choice, but sending them to Sts. Peter and Paul Academy may be the best choice, in the long run. Pray about it. Is God calling you to teach His children about Him? "Let the little children, come unto me," says the Lord.

Posted July 30th

Another group of volunteers completed several tasks at the school on Saturday. Thanks Bob, Sandy, Anita, Missie, Kyle, Eric,  Dianne, Chris, Kyle, Ben, Jackie, Chris, Matt, Ashley, Mike, Jim, Mary and Jim. Thanks to everyone who has helped throughout the summer! The new library has shelves moved in and the Cafeteria is shining! The Computer Lab is back together and the Hallway and Gym are beginning to get back to normal. 

The next night the school will be open for a group of willing volunteers, is Thursday. We pray the Rosary at 6pm, then start working on the list at 6:30pm. There is plenty to do for every skill level. Painters, roofers, gardeners and cleaning crew are all needed. Please just show up and pitch in where needed. 

The Board of Directors met Monday evening. It is going to be a great year at Sts. Peter and Paul Academy. Mrs. Donnelly has been working hard on the student and faculty handbooks. She has been giving tours and more are scheduled this week for prospective students. The referral program seems to be bringing in some new faces to the Academy. Welcome to our family!

Dianne Seeger is still working on the yearbook through the summer and hopes to have it completed soon. If anyone would like to place an order with her, please contact her through email at dmeseeger@yahoo.com

Market Day orders are being taken for August. Order forms are due at the school by Friday, August 8th. The final date to order on-line is by noon on Wednesday, August 13th. You can go to www.marketday.com account # 25998  and order under Sts. Peter and Paul Academy. Pick-up is at the Academy Cafeteria on Monday, August 18th from 4:30-5:30. We would like to thank Ann Madsen for the wonderful job she has done organizing and continuing this Market Day fundraiser. Thanks to the volunteers who work Market Day as well. Anyone wishing to help with this fundraiser can help set up on pick-up day at 3:00pm.

Thank you's to all those who continue to pray for the success of this mission. We cannot become complacent and think that since we have our school Charter and one year under our belts, the fight is over and we have won. Hard work, perseverance and Faith got us here. We cannot give in to comfortable satisfaction that the school will run itself now. We still need support and help to continue the mission of educating the youth of the Valley in the Catholic faith. Prayers, donations and referrals of new students are all still needed. If you would like to help, you can check out the wish list and see what the teachers would like for the upcoming year.

An Ellison Machine and a paper shredder are just two of the ideas they are asking for. What is an Ellison machine? It is a dye-cutting paper press teachers use to enhance projects. It cuts out various shapes and letters from construction paper. The shapes can be used on bulletin boards or art projects. It saves time from teachers having to hand cut things one at a time. Parents club had purchased one at the old Sts. Peter and Paul School, but it did not follow us to the Academy. Perhaps prayer will help us to get a new one.

Remember, with God, all things are possible!

Posted July 24th

Summer days seem to be passing all too quickly. The Rosary was prayed tonight, then a group of volunteers met to start clearing out the Cafeteria, began applying wax  to the Library floor and finished waxing the Computer lab. Thanks so much to the hardworking volunteers who give so much of themselves to make the school look beautiful for the children. 

Teachers are beginning to come in and decorate their classrooms for the upcoming school year. It is exciting to be going into our 2nd year with our new Charter.

Another group met at the school tonight to work on Marketing. Some great new ideas are being discussed and will be presented to the Board of Directors at the Monday night meeting. 

Posted July 18th

There was another nice mention in the Valley Courier for the Academy this week, written by Pat Lapple, congratulating SPPA on receiving their Charter from the State of Ohio Dept. of Education. "I think all the people who were instrumental in 'saving this school' should be so proud and deserve a big round of applause for never giving up and working with such perseverance in achieving this noble goal of continuing their religious education. Many, many kudos are sent to you all."

Thank yous to all those who have worked hard, prayed hard and continue to do both. Last night, directly following the praying of the Rosary at 6pm, a small, but effective group gathered to start punching away at the punch list. So much work was accomplished and it was fun to be with friends again who have a common purpose - to make Sts. Peter and Paul Academy the best it can be for the Children of the Valley and beyond.

Thanks to Kevin for painting the ceiling in the new library. Thanks to Cody for being the muscle to move all the heavy stuff. "I was going to the gym to work out, but now I don't have to." Thanks to Bonnie, Missie and Sandy for moving the light stuff. Thanks to Jim for construction matters. Thanks to everyone who has been working this summer! Big thanks to Tom and Joe for the beautiful floors. Thanks to Jim and Matt, the new air conditioners are a cool addition to the classrooms!  Nikki, Gina, Terri and Ann, thanks for all you are doing! Things are looking great! Thanks to the landscapers for the beautiful lawn and the new mulch. It looks really nice. 

With only about a month away until "Meet the Teachers Day" there is still lots of work to be done. The next scheduled work day is this Saturday. The school will be open from 9am-3pm for volunteers to come in and start helping. Don't worry if you have a bad back or can't move things, there is sorting through the books for the Library that will take time and has to be done as well. If you can only stay for an hour or two, your help is still needed and appreciated. Come on in and lend a helping hand. "Many hands make light the work." 

The new principal, Mrs. Glenda Donnelly, has been working hard too. The offices look in perfect order and are very welcoming to those coming in to sign up their children for the new school year. Another Kindergarten student registered yesterday and we are happy to continue with our open enrollment policy. All are welcome at Sts. Peter and Paul Academy! Even though we are teaching in the Catholic tradition, all denominations are welcome. Giving Jesus to your child, through their education at the Academy, is a gift that will last a lifetime. What better way to show your child how important they are to you? 

In these economic times, it is easy to put other things first, and it may require a sacrifice to put your child into a private school, but the rewards are well worth the sacrifice. The lessons learned here are lessons that will stay with your child throughout their years. Learning about God and His plan for their life is just as important, if not more, than the lessons taught here on Reading, Writing and Arithmetic. SPPA offers a staff of experienced, certified teachers, in a small class-size environment. Your child will receive more attention in the Academy than in a larger school, where they are just a number. The suggested class size at SPPA is limited to 20 children. Tuition at the Academy is still only $2200, one of the lowest in the area. For approximately $12 per school day, you can give your child the gift of a Catholic education. When you break it down into those numbers, it is amazingly affordable.

If you would like to take a tour or experience the warmth of SPPA, please call the Academy at 761-7772. Mrs. Donnelly is there every weekday, from 8am - 1pm or later some days. She would be happy to answer any questions you may have. 

The Miracle on Clark Road continues. Come be a part of a Miracle!

Posted July 16th

Help is needed for the next SPPA event: 

The Family Picnic  Koenig Park   Friday, August 22nd

Terri Sweeney has volunteered to chair this event and would like at least one person to oversee each of the following items:

            1 – food, grill (Terri Sweeney)

            2 – beer

            3 – drinks (pop, water, ice)

            4 – entertainment (music, corn hole tournament, split-the-pot, any other ideas)

            5 – communications (advertising, soliciting workers, information to parents)

            6 – bake sale

            7 – silent auction and soliciting donations

Anyone interested can email Terri at tsweeney34@hotmail.com

She would like to schedule a brief meeting of committee members as soon as possible. 

Thank you for the help! 

Posted July 15th

You may have seen the wonderful article about our new principal, Mrs. Glenda Donnelly, and the Academy receiving our State Charter, recently in the Valley Courier. Also, the article published in the Cincinnati Enquirer letting the Tri-State area know of our success, was another blessing. Everyone loves a success story and the story of Sts. Peter and Paul Academy is certainly that! With help from God, guidance from the Holy Spirit and the blessings of hundreds of volunteers, our story rivals the local "Extreme Makeover" going on in West Chester.

A busy group of hard workers has been preparing the Academy for the upcoming school year. Already, most every classroom floor has been stripped, cleaned and rewaxed. The new 2nd grade room is complete. New, commercial grade, donated air conditioners have been installed in several of the classrooms. The new library is still in the process of being renovated. 

Books, donated from the former Sts. Peter and Paul school library, have been collected and we thank them very much for the generous donation. Thanks especially to the ladies who labored and sweated to bring them to the Academy. As of right now, the library contents are being stored in the gym while the new library is being constructed. Help is still needed to have this project complete before school starts.

Thursday evenings, the Rosary is prayed at 6:00pm in front of the school. Directly following that, a work crew gathers and starts on the project punch list. If you would like to help, please just show up. There are plenty of jobs that require unskilled labor, such as carrying books, cleaning and painting. 

As always, if you cannot be there, your prayers and support are still appreciated. God has great things in mind for this small Academy. Come and be a part of this "Miracle on Clark Road."

Posted June 29th

Once again, God blessed us with perfect weather for the Luau. The storm passed through and was over before the party started, leaving us with a warm, sunny evening. The tiki torches were lit and gave the Pavilion the ambiance of a real Hawaiian Luau. 

Flowered shirts and grass skirts were the choice apparel of the event. Straw Panama hats and flower leis were seen on many of the guests. Grilled food and drinks with little umbrellas were a big hit. Tropical music and laughter filled the air.

Thanks to all who came out to support the Academy at the Luau!

Posted June 28th 

Tonight is the LUAU at Koenig Park - rain or shine! It will be held under the big Pavilion starting at 6pm.

If you would like to help set-up, the committee will be there at 3pm. Volunteers are invited to bring pineapples and desserts. Thank you's to Michelle and her group of volunteers for all the hard work preparing for this fun event!

Tickets will be on sale at the gate for $8. The cornhole tournament brackets will start being drawn as people sign in. The tourney is scheduled to start at 6:30pm. For $20 per TEAM, you are guaranteed 3 matches. There will be prizes awarded for champions - Weekend vacation packages at local area attractions. There is even an award for the Toilet Bowl champs!

Put on your Hawaiian Shirt and come join in the fun!  Grass Skirts and Coconuts are allowed! Only 21 and over please. No coolers allowed.

Posted June 22nd

Work at the Academy began with a group of volunteers on Thursday night. They made a great start with clearing out the existing library and carrying books to the gym. A new 2nd grade classroom is being established as the school is growing. Another group of workers started clearing out supplies that had been in storage. It was great to work together again as a team!

The Academy was also open on Saturday for workers to come as they could. The library shelves were moved and more donated supplies were picked up that day. If you would like to be a part of the team, your help is appreciated. Many hands make light the work! If you cannot make it on a designated day when the school is open, please contact this website. Tom Burke's group of volunteers, who help with Grounds and Facilities, are very flexible in their work shifts. Thursday evenings after 6pm and Saturdays from 9am-3pm are the present times for teams of volunteers to work together. It has been suggested to have a grill out on Saturdays to go along with the work, to make it more fun and social. Come be a part of the team! Make some new friends and lend a helping hand. Is God calling you to put your Faith into action? There are many different types of work to be done, from painting and weeding to cleaning and sorting books. Thank you in advance for your commitment to Catholic education.

Some Great News arrived in the mail on Saturday! Sts. Peter and Paul Academy received their Charter from the State of Ohio! After operating on a letter of approval from the State for its first year, the Academy has now completed the chartering process. The letter from the Ohio Department of Education congratulated us and also stated, "We recognize that the enclosed charter represents the results of careful planning and effort."  That is very true! Much time, effort and "sweat equity" went into the planning and "building" of Sts. Peter and Paul Academy. Piles of paperwork, along with site visitations, were required by the state to be in compliance with operating a kindergarten through 8th grade school. With guidance from the Holy Spirit and help from several people on our Academic team, along with support from various schools, we did it! Congratulations Sts. Peter and Paul Academy!

We are inviting all adults to come celebrate this news with us at the Luau on Saturday, June 28th! A copy of the charter and letters from ODE will be on display for everyone to see! Everyone involved with the Academy has a right to be very proud of this monumental accomplishment. There were some doubting Thomas' out there that said it could not be done. To them we say, "Nothing is impossible with God." 

Along with our traditional praying of the Rosary on Thursday night at 6pm, we will be offering up prayers of Thanksgiving for the continued gifts being bestowed on the Academy. We would like to offer our condolences to the family of Lillian Goldschmidt, and to thank them for designating the Academy for memorial gifts.

Posted June 15th

Happy Father's Day to all the fathers! What a beautiful day God has blessed us with. Summer break is moving right along and while we are nearing one of the Academy's upcoming fundraisers, the Luau, we are also asking for your support to TAPCE's golf outing which is coming up first. TAPCE - Tuition Assistance Program for Catholic Education, is holding their annual golf outing -auction/dinner on Sunday, June 22nd at the Elks Club in Hamilton. Reservations for golf and dinner can be made until Tuesday, June 17th. You may contact Jim Lichtenberg at caroljamesl@aol.com for more information. 

Sts. Peter and Paul Academy Luau is scheduled for Saturday, June 28th at Koenig Park under the big pavilion. The party starts at 6pm and goes until 11pm. Cost for entrance into the Luau is $5 presale, $8 the night of. Participation in the cornhole tournament is $20 per team with 3 games guaranteed.  Sign ups begin at 6pm. Brackets will be drawn and tournament begins promptly at 6:30pm. Winners and runners-up receive local weekend vacation packages. Consolation prize for Toilet Bowl champ.

Besides beer, grilled food, music, and fun, there will be virgin frozen drinks, pop, a limbo contest and a best dressed contest. Put on your grass skirt and coconuts and plan on having some summer fun! Only 21 and over please. There will be split the pot and a basket raffle also to take chances on. Mark your calendar and bring your friends to this new event. 

If you would like to purchase your tickets early for the Luau, please contact Michelle at bdaddy@fuse.net or Jackie at jackiehonebrink@yahoo.com 

This Thursday, following the praying of the Rosary, will be the group volunteer night to work on the list of items that need completed this summer at the Academy. The Rosary starts at 6pm and the doors of the Academy will be open until 9pm for anyone wishing to come lend a helping hand. Thanks again to all those who continue to build God's kingdom here on earth!

Posted June 13th

In the Hometown Section of the Enquirer Thursday, June 12th, was a beautiful picture and coverage of Sts. Peter and Paul Academy's first graduating class. In the Valley Courier this week was a full-color advertisement for open enrollment featuring another picture of our graduates. Thank you to the papers for their continued interest in following our story. "The Miracle on Clark Road" continues.

Directly following the praying of the Rosary last night, Tom Burke - Board member in charge of Grounds and Facilities, along with a couple of other volunteers, started sprucing up the Academy grounds. There is much less work to do than last summer, as we were preparing the entire building and grounds to accommodate the children. This summer, the to-do list is short and sweet, but your help is still needed and appreciated. There is also an email that just went out, asking for specific groups to form for painting the exterior and for landscaping. If this type of work interests you, please contact Tom at burke_const@yahoo.com The interior to-do list consists of converting the new library, preparing the new 2nd grade classroom, some painting, floor resealing and cleaning, along with a few other jobs. 

It is much more fun to work together to accomplish things and many hands make light the work. You can ask anyone who spent last summer together rehabbing the building, lasting friendships were built, just as we were building the school.

Beginning this week, the Academy will be open every Saturday from 9am-3pm. This makes it easy for those who can only stay an hour or two to come in and help out when it is convenient for them during the day. Thursday evenings following the Rosary, which starts at 6pm, will also be another night the building will be open for volunteers to start on the list. Spreading the items out over the 10 weeks until school starts will make accomplishing the tasks even easier. You don't have to sign up, register or call anyone to work, just show up and lend a helping hand. There will be a list of items that can be checked off. Thank you in advance for your willingness to put your Faith into Action! 

Some other exciting news! A new Wii gaming system has been donated to the Academy as a raffle item to raise donations. Tickets are now on sale for $1 per chance or 6 chances for $5. This fundraiser is selling all summer and the winning ticket will be drawn at the August 22nd Family Picnic. You do not need to be present to win. You may get in touch with Bonnie Rack (673-7225) or Sandy Harsch ( sharsch277@aol.com ), if you would like to purchase chances. Thanks to the generous donors who contributed this popular entertainment system to the Academy.

You may have noticed the 20' banner across Reading Road this week, advertising enrollment. Registration packets are available and we are happy to take any interested person on a tour of the Academy. You may set-up an appointment by calling the office at 513-761-SPPA (7772). Someone checks the messages each day. Our new principal, Mrs. Glenda Donnelly, has been coming into the office periodically, but will be working daily following the 4th of July holiday. 

We would love to welcome you and your child into our family. If small class size, caring teachers and staff, along with a private, Catholic education is what you are looking for, Sts. Peter and Paul Academy may be just the place. Conveniently located just off of Ronald Reagan Cross County Highway and I-75, the Academy is easily and quickly accessible from many parts of town. 

As always, your prayers and support are appreciated. In these uncertain times, in a troubled economy, where gas prices are constantly rising, it is even more important to show our youth how important we think a Catholic education is. Putting our children's Faith formation first is a tough decision for many families because of the tuition cost. By giving our children the gift of a Catholic education, we witness to them where our priorities are. We show them that God is first in our lives. He is worth the sacrifice.

Posted June 11th

School may be out for summer, but there are still things going on at the Academy. Market Day pick-up is scheduled for Monday, June 16th in the Cafeteria from 4:30-6pm. If you would like to help set-up, please be at the Academy by 3:30pm. Thanks so much to Ann Madsen for heading up this Academy fundraiser all year! Thanks also to those who support the Market Day fundraiser!

There was a yearbook meeting at the Academy last night. Dianne Seeger is busy preparing the first SPPA yearbook. Shelly Kroeger has been selling ads for this inaugural edition. If you didn't get your order placed for the yearbook before school was out, please contact this website immediately before the order is sent to print. If you would like for your business to buy an ad to support the project, please contact this website. You may send an email to webmaster@sppacademy.org 

As the school is growing, there is some moving going on in the Academy this summer. Mrs. Cummins is teaching the second graders next year, which will not be a combined class. The library is being moved so that Mrs. Cummins can have that class room. Help is needed with this project. Please watch your email or this website for an update. Many library books are still being donated this summer. New shelves are needed to house this wonderful addition. If you would like to donate your carpentry skills for this project, please let us know.

Thank you's go out to everyone who has helped make this year successful for Sts. Peter and Paul Academy. The continued public support is overwhelming! The website has reached nearly 80,000 visitors in just over 1 year. If you would like to register as a guest, please sign in at guestbook@sppacademy.org  Your name will be added to the growing list of visitors.

Another growing list at the Academy is the list of memorials. Sadly in this past year, 13 friends of the Academy have passed. Their loved ones have designated the Academy as recipient in lieu of flowers. There is a memorial in the Academy listing and thanking these Friends of the Academy, because of their gifts to the children. Many of those listed on the memorial have grandchildren who attend the school. What a wonderful tribute to those who have gone before us, still lighting the way to the importance of Catholic education.

Prayers are still asked for the success of this project. The Rosary is prayed every Thursday evening at 6pm in front of the Mary statue outside of the Academy. Please join us, or if you are unable, please join your prayers with ours at that time. 

Posted June 7th

Friday, May 30th marked the final school day for Sts. Peter and Paul Academy's first year. Car horns were honking and parents were cheering as the children left the building. Students were jumping for joy with hands in the air, celebrating the beginning of summer break.

The banner, displayed for the children and parents, read: "Congratulations! We Did It!!" 

The teachers proudly held it up for all to see at the end of the day. 

It was another triumphant moment in the chapter of Sts. Peter and Paul Academy. Celebrating the end of our inaugural school year was definitely a moment to be proud of! Against all odds, a tiny group of faith-filled believers headed out on a journey led by the Holy Spirit. With unfaltering belief, the Founders, parents, students, teachers and staff took a leap of faith that God would not disappoint them. 

As Jesus once said, "If you have the faith the size of this mustard seed, you can move mountains." This mountain of obstacles against preserving Catholic education in the Reading Valley was moved. The hearts of people from around the tri-state area, were moved to help. Their collective faith materialized in donations from all over to fill an empty building. People were moved to give of their time, talents and treasures to make sure this mission succeeded. 

This mission not only lived, but it thrived. The children were pushed beyond the norm to learn more than what had been expected of them. The parents also gave more than what was expected of them to make sure this school was the best it could be. Though asked to donate 30 hours of volunteer time, each family lovingly and willfully gave whatever time it took. They didn't count the hours, they made the hours count. Through all of this working together, the families bonded and became closer friends. 

The friends and supporters of Sts. Peter and Paul Academy have reason to celebrate. They have reason to hold their hands up and cheer. They have been given a great gift - the chance to put their faith into action. They have been given the chance to make a difference in children's lives, thus affecting the future in a positive way. Just as the disciples, in their time, were faced with difficult challenges, they knew that God was with them and helping them to succeed. The Founders and friends of Sts. Peter and Paul Academy have found this same strength- no matter how hard the path may have been to get here, it was worth all the work. 

It is not all hard work at the Academy. There is always plenty of time to celebrate and have fun. On Sunday, June 1st, a group of about 60 children and adults made time to go to the Reds game together. The field trip was planned through the Academy and tickets were purchased for the group to sit together in the bleacher seats. 

Once again, God blessed us with a beautiful sunny day. The weather was perfect and the Reds won an exciting game, filled with lots of homeruns and fireworks. 

Sts. Peter and Paul Academy's name was listed on the big screen as the reds welcomed our group.

As another bonus, children under 14 were given a floppy reds hat. The children and parents had a great time together. 

Following the game, everyone had a chance to "run the bases." After a short wait in line, adults and children were allowed on the field. There really wasn't much running, but the thrill was definitely there as each base was stepped on and the crowd rounded third and headed for home. Not wanting the fun to end, some of the group made their way across the river to a local establishment for more socializing. Plans are already being made for the next outing.

The next opportunity to be a part of this fun and to help support Catholic education is coming right up. The LUAU is planned for Saturday, June 28th at Koenig Park. To see a flyer with all the information, you can click on this link:

  LUAU

As one friend of the Academy recently put it, "You all never miss an opportunity to have fun." There will be music, dancing, food from the grill and cold drinks. There is going to be a Cornhole Tournament with prizes awarded. Pre-sale tickets are only $5. Tickets will be $8 at the gate on the night of the event. If you would like to purchase tickets before the night of the event, please call the phone numbers on the flyer or contact this website at webmaster@sppacademy.org

Thank you again to all those who have supported the mission of continuing Catholic education in the Reading Valley area. Thank you for your prayers and support. If you would like to send your congratulatory wishes to this website, they will be printed on the posted comments page for all to read. You may send your thoughts to the webmaster or to guestbook@sppacademy.org 

Firmly rooted in the belief that God is with us and helping us to succeed, we continue to pray for His help through the intercession of Mary, each and every Thursday evening at 6pm. We have been praying the Rosary each Thursday evening, rain or shine, sweltering or freezing temperatures, for over 1 and 1/2 years now. Please join your prayers with ours in asking for the continued success of this mission. 

Posted May 29th

Tomorrow is the last day of school for our first year! Can you believe it?  Our first graduating class received their awards last night following a Mass celebrated by Father Joe Binzer. Pictured here is Sts. Peter and Paul's first graduating class, along with Father Joe.

Directly following the Mass, a wonderful reception was held in the Cafeteria, which was decorated beautifully by the 8th graders and their parents. Food was catered from Vonderhaar's.  Parents from 7th graders helped serve the meal. The 8th grade video, prepared by Mrs. Nicole Burke, was shown more than once to the crowd who cheered and loved it. As one parent put it, it was a perfect ending to "the best year our 8th graders ever had."

Posted May 24th

The Volunteer Appreciation Night was well attended, especially considering that so many families have games during the week nights at this time of the year. Thank you to all our Academy Volunteers! Thanks were also given out to our Volunteer Teachers and Staff members. Twelve of our Eighteen teachers and staff are volunteers. They love what they do and we appreciate them. 

Pizza, Pop, Cookies and Cake were fare for the event. The Art Show provided the background for the evening. After thank you's were spoken, our new Principal for the 08-09 school year was introduced and spoke a few words to the crowd. Mrs. Glenda Donnelly, the Assistant Principal at Mother Theresa Catholic Elementary School, has been hired for next school year. She officially starts on July 1st, but has been meeting with teachers just to get a feel for the Academy. She is a great asset to our school and we are proud to have her join our team. 

Don't forget, the Memorial Day VYO Festival goes on all weekend at Koenig Park this weekend. Wear your Spirit Wear with pride as you walk with us in the Memorial Day Parade on Monday morning. We will be meeting at Mueller's in Lockland no later than 9am. We will be walking the parade route to Koenig Park. We hope to have a large group to show our pride in the Academy to the Community.

We are also still looking for volunteers who can work Field Day on Tuesday, May 27th. It would be helpful for volunteers to show up at 11:30 for serving lunch, then to stay for the rest of the day to help oversee the games being played. Check in at the office to see where your help is needed.

This weekend, we especially want to take time to thank and remember those who have served our Country as well as all our loved ones we have lost. Have a safe and relaxing Memorial Day Weekend.

Posted May 21st 

Don't forget - Tomorrow night, Thursday May 22nd, everyone is invited to pray the Rosary with us in front of the Mary statue at the Academy at 6pm. Directly following at 6:30pm, all volunteers are asked to attend the Volunteer Appreciation Night for pizza, pop and desserts. The Appreciation party will take place in the Cafeteria to honor all those who have given so much of themselves: their time, their talents and their treasures. It is through the efforts of generous volunteers that the Academy can keep their tuition low. We love and thank our volunteers! 

It makes me a little misty-eyed to think how far we have come. From the Save Our School meetings every Thursday evening beginning in the Fall of 2006, we have grouped together and stood as one, standing up for Catholic education.

When temperatures were freezing, we stood together and prayed the Rosary, praying for strength, guidance and courage. It has taken all of these traits from every one of us to get this Academy together and to make it work. Parents and teachers had the courage and faith to sign up, even when we had no building to call ours. Friends and supporters had the strength to volunteer endless hours, remodeling this building into the beautiful school we have today.  The Holy Spirit offered guidance by presenting leaders who stepped up when needed. Also guidance was provided by: Mother Theresa Catholic Elementary School, Mount Notre Dame High and Reading Public Schools.

The community came together and supported this endeavor. Businesses, schools and individuals all over the Archdiocese donated labor and items to first beautify and then fill our empty rooms.

The students came into the school ready to learn without skipping a beat, just as if Sts. Peter and Paul Academy had always been here. That is the true testament to this project being Spirit driven. God was leading this plan and using each one of us to play a part in His plan.

It seems like forever ago since we had Orientation Day and Meet the Teachers. The Halloween Parade and our first Christmas Pageant, Mardi Gras and the field trips are just memories now.  Looking back as we come to the end of our first school year is very much like a dream. At times it may have seemed like a nightmare, but most of the time things worked smoothly and fell into place just the way God planned them. The Lord is so good to us. He has blessed us abundantly and we are thankful for His generous gifts.

Thank you to each student, parent, grandparent, guardian, teacher, volunteer and friend of the Academy. Thank you for taking the leap of faith with us. We hope you have not been disappointed.

We are taking this time to say congratulations to our students and families from this year. We have all grown and have “graduated” in one way or another. Each child has learned so much this year and has come so far. Each of us has learned so much too. We have learned that with God anything is possible. We have learned to trust in His Wisdom and have grown in love for Him and for one another. We have made new friends and bonded stronger with those acquaintances we used to just wave to. We have truly become family to each other.

It is hard to say goodbye. It is easier to say we will see you next year. Have safe and relaxing summers. Keep the Faith and keep spreading the good news: Christ is Alive and in our midst right here at Sts. Peter and Paul Academy.

Posted May 15th

So much to write about with the first year drawing to a close. However first and foremost, you are invited to attend the May Crowing which is happening tonight- Thursday, at 6:30 directly following the praying of the Rosary. Mrs. Gina Reiman will be playing and leading the music. Children from 2nd grade, who just made their First Holy Communion, will be participating in the Crowning ceremony. Everyone in the community is invited to attend. The rain should hold off for a beautiful outside ceremony, however, if not, it will be held in the gymnasium. It is hard to believe that it has been a year since our first May Crowning. We would like to re-establish this age old Catholic tradition of honoring the mother of Christ. Please invite your friends and neighbors. Everyone is welcome.

Friday, May 16th, the 7th & 8th graders at the Academy are presenting their power point on Washington DC. Each child was given a specific monument or museum to report on. The presentation is being held at the Academy at 1:15pm. You are welcome to attend and learn about the educational field trip the students participated in. There is also going to be a special presentation at 1:15 to the school. 

The Art Show is also quickly approaching. Students have been creating "masterpieces" all year. They are going to choose 1 of their favorites and bring it in for display. Artwork from each student will be exhibited during the Volunteer Appreciation Night on Thursday, May 22nd at 6:30pm.

The Volunteer Appreciation Night is scheduled at the Academy Cafeteria as a "Thank You!" to all who have volunteered their time, talents and treasures in any capacity. We wish to acknowledge all volunteer teachers, parents, chair persons, Founders, benefactors and sponsors. There will be pizza, pop and dessert provided. Grandma Audrey is helping host this event, so it will be a good one!  If you could help in any capacity: set-up, clean-up, baking, etc., please contact Audrey at astites@speakingofwomenshealth.com.  Your help is always appreciated!

Also on the agenda for that evening is an introduction to our newly hired Principal for the 08-09 school year, Mrs. Glenda Donnelly. Mrs. Donnelly comes to us from Mother Theresa Catholic Elementary School in Liberty Township. MTCES has served as a model school to Sts. Peter and Paul Academy throughout our organization and establishment this past year and a half. We are thrilled to become closer with them as we start our 2nd year. Mrs. Donnelly has her administrative degree, years of experience in helping run an independent Catholic school and will be an asset to the Academy. 

Many activities are planned for the end of the school year. Please check back frequently and click the school page link to see what is coming up. Mark your calendars and join in the celebration!

Posted May 5th

Congratulations to our First Holy Communicants as they took another step in becoming closer to Jesus.

Seven children from Sts. Peter and Paul Academy joined children from the Parish School of Religion and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart in making their First Holy Communion on Sunday, May 4th. Together, there were 18 children who received the Holy Eucharist for the first time on Sunday at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish. Father Michael Leshney and Deacon Tom Lynd celebrated the Mass. Mrs. Shelly Cummins from SPPA, Mrs. Brenda Hubble from PSR and Mrs. Kathy Baker from OLSH also helped prepare the children for this sacrament. It was a beautiful ceremony and the children were all dressed in their finest attire. The parents, relatives and friends who attended were happy to witness this special occasion. The weather could not have been more perfect. God was smiling as he sent his blessings upon these little angels. We ask for the community to keep all of these little ones in your prayers.

Posted April 29th

Saturday, April 26th the Rummage Sale was held at SPPA. A special thanks to everyone who worked so hard on setting up, hauling things, baking, sorting, selling, working in all capacities and especially in cleaning up. The Rummage Sale made over $2000 profit. Many ideas came out of this first Rummage Sale, including a "perpetual" collection of resalable items throughout the year, such as sporting goods and supplies that can be taken directly to consignment stores for profit for the school. Please watch for further details to come on the website in the near future. While things are being worked out, if you have any questions about items that are being collected or where to drop off your donations, please contact Dave McDaniel at dmcdaniel_8788@fuse.net 

The profit from Trivia NIght was approximately $2400. Thanks again to all who supported this fun night of Trivia. 

Mark your calendars for the Sts. Peter and Paul Academy Luau this summer, planned for Saturday, June 28th at Koenig Park. Look for more details to be posted soon.

The 7th & 8th grade field trip was a wonderful educational experience. There is not enough room on this website to write about all the students saw and visited while in Washington, DC for the trip. Some 14 hours per day were spent listening about and visiting the sites in DC. One of the highlights was the VIP tour of the Capital Building ending with a visit by Congressman, Steve Chabot. Congressman Chabot had just stepped off the plane in Washington, but made it a point to take time to talk with the students from SPPA. Being from Reading himself and  having formerly attended the South Reading Elementary School, which is now the home of Sts. Peter and Paul Academy, gave the group an instant connection. Thanks to Steve Chabot for taking time to speak with the students and chaperones.

As you can see from the photo, God blessed our group with weather perfect for touring. So many things worked out flawlessly on the tour that guide, Joyce Tami, said she had never seen a tour in all of her 9 years as a guide in DC go so perfectly: Everyone was always on time everywhere the group went, it just worked out smoothly. She was also very impressed with the knowledge of our 7th & 8th graders for every question she asked them.  Our guide said that most of her tours are for other 8th graders and that it is a normal part of their curriculum to come to DC. As Joyce Tami was a Catholic herself, she interjected as much as possible that was relevant to our group. She spoke of how our Forefathers prayed before any decision that they made and that they would be appalled to think that some Americans are trying to take GOD out of things to be politically correct. She pointed out in the speeches carved on the memorials that our past presidents relied on God heavily to help them make the right decisions and that the inception of this country was led by the Spirit. That same Spirit led our Founders to start Sts. Peter and Paul Academy, even as we went against the system that wanted to close our former school.

Another of the highlights of the tour was Arlington National Cemetery. Besides walking through part of the 612 acres of white grave markers and visiting John F. Kennedy's grave site with the eternal flame, witnessing the changing of the guard at the tomb of the Unknowns was powerful for the students. Watching the Sentinels inspection before being allowed to come on duty was very impressive as our guide had led us to the best viewing area. Joyce Tami also donated a beautiful poster to SPPA that had been signed by the Sentinels that day, thanks to Alex's aunt.

Even though the itinerary for the trip was filled with certain memorials, museums and sites to see, there was a couple of hours where the group could decide which particular Smithsonian museum they would like to visit. It was during this time that many decided to wait in line and visit the National Archives, where they viewed the Declaration of Independence, Constitution of the United States and the Bill of Rights among other important documents. It was well worth the wait to see the original pieces of parchment which led to the birth of this country. Watching the movie "National Treasure" on the way home on the bus was a lot more meaningful after having just been there.

There were a couple of impromptu stops thrown in to the tour. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception was added in since the group was so close. Pope Benedict XVI had just been there the week before and the huge banner still hung from the bell tower welcoming him to America. The beautiful Basilica, which housed 8 shrines dedicated to Mother Mary, is artistically significant as it rivals any of the churches in Europe and is the 8th largest church in the world. One of the most visited shrines in the church is the Shrine of our Lady of Guadalupe, pictured below to the right.

The other added stop was also a church, St. Matthews, historically significant for that is where John F. Kennedy's funeral mass was held. It was thought that starting the day with prayer by visiting this Church was the right thing to do and also helped everything go smoothly and safely for the group as they traveled.

I would like to take this time to sincerely thank those who voluntarily stepped up and saved this trip when it was threatened to be dropped at the last minute because of circumstances. The effort, planning, time and headaches gone through to quickly ensure a safe, affordable and educational trip for the 7th & 8th graders to Washington D.C., as planned, was well worth it. 

Posted April 20th

Last night, the SPPA community came together for the first annual Trivia Night which was held at Haffey Field House. The inception of this Trivia Night was inspired by a fundraiser that takes place in Chicago. Since it was the first time many in our area had participated in this type of entertainment, not everyone knew what to expect. No one left disappointed. 

People were encouraged to dress up, to pick a theme for their team and to decorate their tables. The Field House opened at 5:30pm for those who brought decorations or food, and needed extra time to set-up. By 7pm, the place was filled with tables of costumed players ready to test their knowledge of Trivia. Pictures are worth a thousand words, so here are a few photos to share with you of tables that were decorated and ideas people came up with for themes.

Of course looking a certain character or theme added to the fun, but it was what the team knew on the inside that helped them to win the Trivia. Diversity at a table was a help, as topics for the Trivia consisted of anything from questions about Advertisements, Sports, and Music, to Presidents, Movies and TV shows. One could only rely on their own brainpower or those at the table. There was no help from dictionaries, phones or computers. Once a category of questions was asked, the table had 2 minutes to get the answers to the Judges' table. Answers were graded and placed on a projection screen to show how your table scored.

The winning table was the Feld Family with a score under 70%, which would have been considered failing by Academy standards. However, in this realm, they were winners and took home $50 each for prize money. Besides the Trivia questions, split the pot tickets were sold and 2 games of "head or tails" was held. What a fun time! This unique fundraiser has turned into a sell out in Chicago and has the potential to do the same here, as people left talking about next year and what they would do when they came back. Thanks to Andrea Gertz and Carol Antenucci for all the planning and organizing they did with this event. Thanks to everyone who helped to make it a huge success and a fun time for all who came!  Those Academy people just know how to have a good time!

School starts early on Monday morning for the 7th & 8th graders at SPPA. The students and chaperones will need to be at the school by 4:30am. They will by sleepy, but excited as they load the charter bus to head to our nation's Capital, Washington, D.C. An important element they will be bringing with them, besides their thirst for knowledge, will be their Rosaries. As the Pope just spoke on Thursday, April 17th, concerning our Catholic Schools, we are reminded of our mission to the students: Teaching them the Catholic Faith, passing on by example the teachings of Christ, helping them to become more appreciative of their gift of Faith. If you would like to read the speech by Pope Benedict XVI to Catholic Educators of the United States, given on Thursday, April 17th at the Catholic University of America, please click this link:

Address of Pope Benedict XVI to Catholic Educators of the United States

This speech speaks directly to the Catholic Educators of the important task we have to the youth in America. It tells of the support we need from the public to continue this mission. It speaks of the prayer that is needed as well. We are called to be good examples to the children as well as passing on factual data to them. Once the children learn, this will give them a basis on what to do when they are faced with decisions later in life. As Founders at Sts. Peter and Paul Academy, this mission has been utmost in the minds of those who developed the school, who worked to make it open, who strive to make it the best it can be. Let us continue to work toward this important goal, to stabilize our longevity into the future, to work with the whole child - intellectually, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Please pray for the success of this mission. Won't you join us in praying the Rosary Thursday evening at 6pm in front of the Mary statue at the Academy?

Please pray for our 7th & 8th graders as they are on their journey. Please pray for the chaperones, teachers and parents who will also take this field trip. Thank you!

Posted April 17th

The 7th and 8th graders are getting excited about their class trip to Washington, DC. Students are already beginning to pack their bags. While it would have been wonderful to have been there while the Pope was in Washington, our 7th & 8th graders will be there next week after he leaves. However, the Pope's visit did bring more local recognition to the Academy. Channel 19 did a story on the Pope and his concerns about Catholic schools closing in the US. Channel 19 interjected our story, containing Sts. Peter and Paul School closing and the Academy opening. Thanks Channel 19!

 To help with expenses for their field trip, the 7th & 8th graders are having a carwash this weekend at Allen's Auto Service at 19 Clark Road, 9am-1pm. Pray for good weather! They will also have Snacks and Pop for sale. Please bring your vehicles for a good "clean" cause!

On a thoughtful note, Words of Wisdom were placed in the faculty mailboxes this week. These words are so meaningful to every family, they are being repeated here.

Children Learn What They Live

If children live with criticism, they learn to condemn.

If children live with hostility, they learn to fight.

If children live with fear, they learn to be apprehensive.

If children live with pity, they learn to feel sorry for themselves.

If children live with ridicule, they learn to feel shy.

If children live with jealousy, they learn to feel envy.

If children live with shame, they learn to feel guilty.

If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence.

If children live with tolerance, they learn patience.

If children live with praise, they learn appreciation.

If children live with acceptance, they learn to love.

If children live with approval, they learn to like themselves.

If children live with recognition, they learn it is good to have a goal.

If children live with sharing, they learn generosity.

If children live with honesty, they learn truthfulness.

If children live with fairness, they learn justice.

If children live with kindness and consideration, they learn respect.

If children live with security, they learn to have faith in themselves and those about them.

If children live with friendliness, they learn the world is a nice place in which to live. 

-written by Dorothy Law Nolte

As always you are invited to join us as we pray the Rosary each Thursday evening at 6pm in front of the Mary statue at the Academy. The weather is beautiful now and Spring would be a great time to start a new routine in your prayer life. We would love to have you join us. We continue to pray for the success of this mission. We ask for your prayers and support if you cannot attend. 

Posted April 13th

It's been a busy week for the students, faculty and the Board of Directors at SPPA. Students wrapped up Project Linus in Family Time this week. Another Thank You to Terri Kelsey for preparing the material for this blanket making job. Every child participated from K- 8th grade. These blankets, which were made with love by children, will be used by children in need of love and security. Children in hospitals, fires or other emergency situations are given these blankets to feel warm and secure. What a lovely gift!

The faculty has been busy this week finishing report cards for 3rd quarter and beginning on the last quarter projects. They did receive a wonderful treat on Monday, a huge cake from Servatti's, donated by one of our Board members to recognize the wonderful observation reports given on each one of them. Each teacher received "high marks" when they were observed in the class room teaching. The writing on the cake said it all, "Sts. Peter and Paul Academy Teachers - Simply the Best!" We are proud of all our teachers! Thanks to Sister Lawrence who helped in the observations.

The Board of Directors has been busy this week as they spent time Saturday in a 5-hour retreat. After an opening prayer to the Holy Spirit, they went over the goals for next year, as they recognized everything that had been accomplished so far this year. Each chairman left better prepared for the potential development and accomplishments of their committee. Thank you to all these hard working volunteers who take the time and responsibility to steer the Academy into future growth and success.  

During the day, time was taken to reflect on words written by Mother Teresa of Calcutta: 

An ode below to all those who dare go "above and beyond":

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.

Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.

This version is credited to Mother Teresa and is written on the wall in Mother Teresa's home for children in Calcutta.

Thanks to Mike Rakel for sharing this with the Board. Everyone left feeling pumped and ready to get busy doing more of God's work, teaching the future generations of Catholics. 

Please pray for the success of this mission. You are invited to pray the Rosary with us on Thursdays at 6pm in front of the Mary statue at the Academy. If you cannot attend, please offer up your prayers with ours at that time. Thank you!

Posted April 9th

What a beautiful couple of days God has blessed us with! The children have been able to play outside in the sunshine for recess and PE classes. The old saying "April Showers bring May Flowers" comes to mind when we see the daffodils and tulips starting to bloom. The trees in front of the Academy are blooming the most gorgeous white blossoms. Living through Cincinnati winters, we thank the Lord for spring!

The landscaping in front of the Academy looks a bit withered from the seasons and could use some sprucing up. Anyone wishing to volunteer their green thumbs to revive and trim the plants would be most appreciated. If you would like to pursue this endeavor, please contact the Academy office at 761-7772. Your talents are always appreciated at SPPA. We work together to make this project a living testament to what Faith can accomplish. God has worked miracles here and it is up to us to nourish this miracle and keep it growing and blossoming. Whatever your talent may be, you can offer your help at the Academy. 

Speaking of blooms, a new fundraiser is soon to start: Flowers for Sale for Mother's Day. Check back in the next few days on the fundraising page for an order form. Anyone who saw how huge and healthy the Christmas Poinsettias were from Kathy Theis at Northgate Nursery, will be happy to know that the same florist will be supplying the hanging baskets and geraniums for this sale. Thanks to Suzie Bateman for chairing this SPPA fundraiser.

As always, you are invited to pray the Rosary with us on Thursday evenings at 6pm in front of the Mary statue. If you can't make it at that time, please offer up your prayers with ours for the continued success of this mission. We especially want to remember Ray Rusche, who recently passed away. Please keep him and his family in your prayers. 

Thank you for your support and prayers.

Posted April 3rd

The planning meeting for the SPPA Rummage Sale was held at the Academy last night. So much was accomplished. Thanks to Dave McDaniel for chairing this pure profit fundraiser.   See the flyer below:

Also, please see the list of items that will be offered for sale. Do you have something that you would like to donate? Something in good usable condition, that is just taking up space? Email Dave for drop off or pick-up information at DMcDaniel_8788@fuse.net.  Thank you for your support!

STS. PETER AND PAUL ACADEMY

RUMMAGE SALE

SATURDAY, APRIL 26^th 

8am-1pm

231 CLARK ROAD, READING, OH

SALE ITEMS INCLUDE:

·        CD/DVD/TAPES/RECORDS/VHS MOVIES

·    BIKES, SCOOTERS, WAGONS

·        YARD AND GARDEN TOOLS

·        HOUSEHOLD ITEMS

·        CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES

·        ELECTRONICS, TOYS, GAMES, BOOKS

·        CAMPING/FISHING/OUTDOOR GOODS

Many businesses in Reading are receiving letters of request from the Academy this week. Several hundred letters went out to the local business community. The envelopes contained a letter from our Chairman, Sheila Lichtenberg, a beautifully assembled flyer full of recent photographs from various school activities, a contribution form, school brochure and return envelope. Thanks to Nancy Young, Kim McCarthy and everyone who helped fold, stuff and seal the letters. We sincerely ask for the support of the community in the continued success of this mission. We will gratefully accept donations of goods, services or monetary contributions. It is with blessings from God and the Holy Spirit, manifest through generous donors from all over the Archdiocese, that this school came to be. 

As always, we also ask for your prayers. You are invited to join us Thursday evening at 6pm to pray the Rosary in front of the Mary statue in front of the school entrance. We remain faithful to our year and a half long tradition of offering up the prayers to Jesus' mother for intercession in the continued success of the "Miracle on Clark Road." Thank you for your prayers and support.

Directly following the Rosary, there will be the monthly Parent's Club meeting at 6:30 in the Cafeteria. There will be nominations for new officers for next year along with discussion and decisions on how to spend the money raised this year. It is requested for each family to try to send at least one parent to this important meeting. Input is sought from everyone and your ideas are appreciated. 

Posted March 30th 

Easter Break is coming to an end and we prepare to return to our routines, refreshed and renewed in mind and body. The Academy starts its 4th quarter Monday. Report cards for the 3rd quarter are scheduled to go out on Friday, April 4th. 

The Yankee candle sale fundraiser is ending tomorrow, so if you would like to purchase a candle to benefit Parent's Club, you may still call the school office to place an order: 761-7772.

Two new Academy fundraisers are scheduled for April: Trivia Night on Saturday, April 19th is being planned by Andrea Gertz and Carol Antenucci. This fun evening will include getting a table of friends together, decorating your table in a theme of your choice, bringing snacks and drinks of your desire, then answering Trivia questions as a team against the other tables. Winning table will take home $50 per person. If you would like to support this fundraiser, please call the Academy office for more information or contact this website at webmaster@sppacademy.org 

The Academy Rummage Sale is planned for Saturday, April 26th. There is going to be an organizational meeting at the Academy on Tuesday, April 1st at 6:30pm for anyone wishing to help Dave McDaniels with this event. For more information, you may contact Dave at dmcdaniel_8788@fuse.net  We are hoping to have much support from the community - donating and purchasing items at this rummage sale. As always, thank you to everyone for donating their time, talent and treasures.

The Academy continues enrollment for prospective students throughout the year. However, priority enrollment for $150 ends April 1st. After that, registration cost is $200.00 per family. Registration cost does go towards tuition of $2200 per student. We would be happy to arrange a tour for your family to see what the Academy has to offer.  Our Kindergarten will be hosting an Open House on Saturday, April 26th from noon until 3pm. Everyone is welcome to attend. You may contact the office at 761-SPPA with any questions.

As always for the past year and a half, on every Thursday, you are invited to pray the Rosary with us. We pray the Rosary in front of the Mary statue at 6:00pm, no matter what the weather. We continue to pray for the success of this mission. We ask for you to join us. If you cannot attend in body, we still appreciate you offering your prayers up at that time in Spirit. Thanks be to God for the gifts and many blessings he continues to bestow on this mission. Thank you for your prayers and support.

Posted March 19th

"The Miracle on Clark Road" continues to testify to the power of prayer. As the heavens opened during the last few days and showered God's rain upon us, the fear of high water became a reality to many in the Valley area.  With the back part of the Academy's parking lot being bordered by the Mill Creek, rising water was a concern to us as well. Phone calls started being placed last night and before long, a crew of people came to the school to make sure all was dry. Precautions were taken to prevent anything being ruined if water made its way into the school. 

We would like to extend the deepest gratitude to those who spent their wee hours of the morning working to make sure the school was safe.

Prayers went up as the rains came down and those prayers were answered. No creek water entered the school. There was no flooding. The creek is receding and the parking lot was the only territory that took any water. The only water in the building, was a few inches that backed up through a drain in the boiler room, which is at basement level in the building.  It was immediately handled with a sump pump.

Thanks to all who prayed. Thanks to all who stayed. The Mayor of Reading was told by the Chief of Public Works, who was at our site during the night, that he had never seen anything like it the way people were working together. Even at 3am there were still 20-25 men and women, working side by side, laying plastic and filling it, to prevent any water from coming in. "They were all in such good spirits, laughing and working in the rain," said one of our Founders. It reminds one of the old time community building through "raising a barn"; Everyone pitching in and helping one another through tough times. God did His share too and held the water back. 

Please continue to pray for the success of this mission.  You may join us for the Rosary at 6pm on Holy Thursday in front of the Mary statue at our Miracle on Clark Road, rain or shine! Happy Easter to all!

Posted March 17th

Saint Patrick

Happy Saint Patrick's Day! The children at SPPA started the day with an Irish Blessing.  Kindergarten and First grade made leprechaun paper bag puppets. Most teachers were dressed in green and many green cupcakes were seen being served as special treats today.

Fr. Joe Binzer will be at the Academy on Wednesday, March 19th to celebrate Mass in the gymnasium at 1:30pm. Students in 7th and 8th grade are working with Mrs. Marlene Henkel to make this a special Holy Week Mass. Dr. Mary Lynn Woebkenberg will be playing the guitar and singing to provide the music. Everyone is invited to attend.

Wednesday, March 19th is also the last day of school at SPPA before Easter Break starts. The Academy will be closed for Holy Thursday and Good Friday, then the week following Easter as well. Hopefully everyone will have a safe and relaxing break.

All of the students have been working very hard as we approach the end of the 3rd quarter. It is hard to believe that when we return from Easter Break, our final quarter of our first year will start.

There is so much coming up in the next few weeks. Here are a few of the things going on -  7th & 8th graders are presently selling raffle tickets for $1 each. The grand prize awarded to the winner of the raffle, is a Play Station 3, a digital ipod for second prize or $25.00 for the third place award. The drawing will take place on April 1st. The students and parents sold tickets outside of Evendale WalMart this past weekend. We would like to thank WalMart for allowing the children to sell the raffle tickets to their customers. The students will be returning to the Evendale WalMart to sell tickets on Saturday, March 29th and Sunday, March 30th. All money raised from this raffle is going towards the 7th & 8th grade field trip to Washington, D.C.

A new Academy fundraiser coming up on Saturday, April 19th is TRIVIA Night. This new tradition comes to us from Chicago. Andrea and Carol are running this fundraiser which will be held at Haffey Field House in Reading, Ohio. Plan on gathering a table of 6-8 friends, dressing and decorating your table in a theme and answering trivia questions. You may bring in your own drinks and snacks. What a fun evening! Prizes will be awarded for various reasons throughout the evening with a grand prize of $50 per person at the winning table. Split the pot will also be sold. Tickets can be bought for a table of 6 or 8 at the cost of $20 per person. If you have any questions, please contact this website at webmaster@sppacademy.org  or the school office at 761-7772.

You may also mark your calendars for the Academy Yard Sale. It will be held at the Academy at 231 Clark Road, Reading, Ohio 45215 on Saturday, April 26th from 8am-1pm. If you would like to contribute items to the Yard Sale, you may plan on dropping off your items on Friday, April 25th after school from 3-8pm only. Please check back for more details as they develop.

Also on Saturday, April 26th, our Kindergarten will be holding an Open House from 12 noon - 3pm. Please plan on coming in and meeting our wonderful Kindergarten teacher, Ms. Nicole Hesse, and our fantastic aide, Mrs. Brenda Hubble. You may take a tour through the school and see what the Academy has to offer your child.

With this Thursday being Holy Thursday, we will still pray the Rosary as usual at 6pm, finishing in time for those who wish to attend the 7pm Mass at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish. If possible, please join us for the Rosary or offer your prayers up with ours at that time. We pray for the intercession of Mary to her son, Jesus, to continue to bless the mission of the Academy. Thank you for your prayers and support.

Posted March 6th

It is exciting to see the number of visitors growing each day to this website. Currently, as of this posting, there have been 65,888 visitors to www.sppacademy.org since it's inception in 2007. What does that say to you?  To me, it speaks of the power of the internet, but it is more than that. With so many sites to visit, why do people come here or return here?  To me, it says they are interested in the future of Catholic Education. What is going on with that little school that was fighting to stay open? What happened with the people who donated the 1966 Corvette?  Did they ever find a school building?  Will they be able to open in time?  Will students come to the school?  Will they really be able to pull it together to have an independent Catholic school? And most importantly, will they be able to make it through this year, and another, and another?  

Interesting questions. For those of us who are living this story, it seems like a movie - everyday! We ask ourselves many of those questions, but our Faith gives us the answers. "Don't be anxious, you will have everything you need." And so we progress everyday, putting our Faith in God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, Mother Mary and all the Saints and angels that our parents, grandparents and forefathers told us about. We believe. We believe so strongly that we know it is the reason we are succeeding. We want to pass this belief on to our children and those who come after us. We want our Catholic Faith to survive. Many people ask, "If the Catholic elementary schools keep closing and there are less feeder schools, how long before the Catholic High Schools are also in danger?" "If the Catholic schools keep closing, who will pass the Faith of our Fathers on to the youth?" "If the Catholic schools keep closing, will there be any Catholics in the future?" 

Questions such as these, I think, are the reason people come to this website. So many people in the beginning were watching our little school, thinking we were "crazy" for trying to save it. "So what, it's just a building. They can go to another consolidated school or another school nearby." Now as the same fate is facing other local small Catholic schools, they are coming to us. They are saying, "Now we understand why you were fighting so hard." "We feel your pain." "We see why you did what you did to try to save your school." 

Our story is the story of what is happening all over the country. We hear reasons for school closings such as: smaller families, bad economy, less in the collections at church. One of our Founders used an example of why schools should not be cut from the budget: "When my parents didn't have as much money coming in, we cut back. We ate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. My parents sure didn't get rid of one of the children." This Founder was making the point that we all want to say: Why can't there be other ways to cut expenses rather than get rid of our schools? Throughout history, the first most important mission of a new Catholic church was to start a school. Now, it seems as if that is the first mission that is cut when a church feels the money crunch. Cut the school and lose all those expenses. Hmmm, why aren't the people making the decisions, thinking clearer? If we keep cutting the schools out, there will be no future Catholics to support the church. We must continue to teach the Faith. We must. 

That is our mission. Sts. Peter and Paul Academy is continuing the tradition of teaching in the Catholic Faith. We want these children to have prayer in the school. We want them to be able to talk freely about God and their religion in the school. We want the children to know how to be good Catholics that give back to the community. We want them to know the commandments and to live by the teachings of the church. What better way to make sure our community stays strong, our larger community, our world? Other than to make sure our children learn to put God first in their life, others second and themselves last. These children learn to think, "What would Jesus do?" They learn to serve by seeing the parents, Founders and benefactors giving of their time, talents and treasure. They learn to be more responsible human beings, and isn't that what this world needs? Or do we need to teach our children that the almighty dollar means everything? If I'm not mistaken, I think that is one of the first commandments I was taught: "I am the Lord thy God, thou shalt not have any other god before Me."

A priest recently said, "I wish more people felt like you, the Catholic church wouldn't be in trouble." Well, I believe most people do feel like this. I believe that God made us in His image. We are all inherently good. For some reason, the people who don't feel this way - are the ones who get all the press. We are constantly told by the media, that we should put ourselves first - We should think of pleasing ourselves, whether it is with a $5 cup of latte or with a designer suit or a home big enough for 4 families to comfortably live in. We are led to believe that by having all of these "things" we will be happy. So we work, and work, and work to make enough money to have "things." All the time giving less and less time to the really important things - our children. When will we realize that having "things" doesn't make us happy? Giving time to our children is important and should make us happy. Making sure that our children are learning what is truly important in their life, so they don't work their lives away for worldly possessions, but put their efforts towards heavenly treasures.

If you would like, please join us for the rosary on Thursday nights at 6pm in front of the Mary statue at 231 Clark Road in Reading. As the weather was a little warmer, our group was a little larger tonight. We offer our prayers up for those in need and for the continued success of this mission. Thank you for your prayers and support.

Posted March 1st

Just a reminder as we start the last month of the 1st quarter of 2008, please recycle your aluminum cans at SPPA. We are in competition for most aluminum cans, per capita, collected for the Rumpke Recycle Challenge 1st Quarter. The more times our filled bin is emptied, the more likely we are to win the $500 bonus check on top of the price per pound we are paid for the cans. This is one of our easiest ways to make money for the Academy. Please pass the word and ask your friends to recycle their cans at 231 Clark Road. Thank you!

Posted February 28th

The children reenacted the Stations of the Cross on Wednesday for their prayer service. All classes read, acted out, then led a meditation on each Station. It was such a beautiful prayer service. Thanks to Mrs. Henkel for planning and thanks to Mrs. Cummins for organizing the students. It was a very moving expeience.

The Stations of the Cross will be prayed with the students again on Wednesday, March 5th at 2:10pm. Everyone is welcome to come and witness this display of Faith through the actions and words of the children.

Posted February 26th    

Sts. Peter and Paul Academy has received a few large donations within the last week that we would like to share with the readers. A most generous donation of $8,000 came in from a graduate of the former Sts. Peter and Paul elementary school. Thank you very much to this magnanimous donor. Also just received was a $5000 donation to upgrade the computer system throughout the building including laptops for the homeroom teachers. Besides these donations, a new kindergarten student's family for next year, may be bringing us donated roofing supplies from Molloy Roofing and labor to repair the roof. A huge thank you to all the benefactors who hold the Academy in their thoughts and prayers. God is so good to us.

Putting the mission of teaching the Catholic Faith to the children, first and foremost, no matter what the costs, struggle and strength required, has brought us many believers. The Faith in every day miracles has spread to those who have witnessed the success of the Academy from it's humble beginnings. The community of believers at the Academy and in the larger area has spread throughout the Archdiocese. Doing what God calls each of us to do, can lead to realization that He is the one in control. Not us. The saying, "Let Go, Let God," rings true to what we have tried to do concerning the formation of the Academy. Led by the Holy Spirit, a small group of Founders, followed their hearts to an empty school building. Parents following their hearts, signed their children up to attend and be a part of the Foundation. Supporters and benefactors continue to "sign up" as well, by giving of their time, talents and treasures. We want to thank all the believers and supporters. We pray that God will bless you in your generosity to the mission of the Academy.

We continue to pray the Rosary each Thursday at 6pm in front of the Mary statue at the Academy. This past Thursday, with snow covering us as we prayed, we knew God was showering his blessings on us. We ask for your prayers and support in this mission as we proceed forward, listening to our hearts, being open to God's call. The sign in front of the Academy says, "Lent is Springtime for our Souls." We hope and pray that during this Lenten season, our souls are blossoming, just like the Academy is blossoming and growing each day. It is growing dearer and dearer to the hearts of those involved with it. It is growing deeper roots in the community, and its success is branching out wider and wider. We hope that the example of being an independent Catholic school can bring hope to those who are struggling with their own trials as more and more schools in our area are closing and consolidating. Keep the Faith. As someone once said, "If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it."  

Listen to your heart. If you would like to be a part of this Miracle on Clark Road, we would love to include you in our mission. You may call the school for a brochure, registration packet or a tour at 513-761-SPPA (7772). We are presently enrolling for the 08-09 school year. Registration forms may also be downloaded from this site. Click this link to download a form: Registration Form

Posted February 20th

As the snow is falling outside in big fluffy flakes, everything is made to look fresh and clean again. Remembering that our 2nd graders just celebrated the sacrament of 1st Reconciliation, reminds us of the simile between the pure white snow and our souls after going to confession. God makes everything new again. Please keep these and all the children in your prayers as they prepare for 1st Holy Eucharist to be celebrated May 4th at Sts. Peter and Paul church.

President's day was celebrated across the nation on Monday, with schools and many businesses being closed. It didn't stop the Academy from being a hub of activity. Basketball practice still took place in the gym. CYO, VYO and MND enjoy the added benefits of another gym opening in the community. 

Market Day pick-up took place in the Cafeteria.  The sale made $317.68 profit for the Academy this month, bringing the grand total to $2546.07 for the year so far. Thanks to the supporters of this fundraiser. Thanks to the parents and friends who set-up on pick-up days. Many thanks to Ann Madsen, chairperson of Market Day, for all the time and effort she puts into this fundraiser. Coming next month is "Brunch Bonus Days." If you  would like to place an order, please go to www.MarketDay.com. You may place the order under Sts. Peter and Paul Academy, account # 25998. 

Also, at the Academy on Monday, a special tour was taking place. Sts. Peter and Paul Academy is being looked at for a grant from Xavier University. If SPPA is awarded this $4000 grant, the money would go towards new reading books for the Kindergarten class, new gym equipment for Physical Education class and supplies for the Art class. Please keep SPPA in your prayers that this grant will come to the Academy.

The interview went very well and telling the story of how Sts. Peter and Paul Academy came to be, reminds us that it has been less than a year since the Archdiocese officially and finally said that the old St. Pete's school would close. In that short amount of time, parents and supporters banded together to keep the tradition alive. They found an empty school building, renovated it, staffed it, filled it with donated supplies from around the Tri-state area and opened the doors to a spirit-filled school that educates the whole child - spiritually, emotionally, intellectually and physically. Many parents have commented that it is like we never skipped a beat from the old school. The traditions that have continued at Sts. Peter and Paul Academy were some that they thought would be lost as their children transitioned to a "new" school. One supporter just relayed a conversation between himself and another parishioner about where to send his child to get a good religious education. The SPPA supporter testified to the strong religious faith that is taught at the Academy. The Catholic faith is taught at SPPA through religion classes, with Mass, prayer services and daily prayer, but mostly by example of the people at the Academy. 

That strong Catholic faith is taught along with Ohio Dept. of Education requirements and Archdiocesan suggested curriculum. Students are challenged to become the best they can be. Jr. High students are asked to model the exemplary student to younger students in the building. Ownership is taken through the many programs instilled at the Academy. One program in particular is the cleaning of the building. Each family is asked to clean the Academy twice a year. Children and family members clean 2 classrooms on their day along with community areas of the school. Everyone shares in the responsibility of maintaining the building, thus they take pride in the building and take better care of it. 

Another program that is unique to SPPA is the "Family Time." Each family is composed of students from every grade level. There are 7 families at SPPA, each one named after a different Saint. This idea was modeled after the "houses" at Moeller High School, where older students become role models for younger students. Parents and children have commented on the success of this program in different ways. During "Family Time", which occurs once per week for about 25 minutes, the children complete various projects. Examples of some of the projects are: creating cards for hospitalized soldiers, making Thank You cards for our benefactors, learning about bullying and the most recent

This Lenten project not only teaches the children how to work together, most importantly it teaches the Catholic value of helping those in need. Thank you to Mrs. Terri Kelsey for orchestrating this project. 

Another wonderful example of children helping children, is the tutoring that is happening with students from Mount Notre Dame High School. Several girls from the "learning to serve" class have volunteered their time to come to SPPA as their main service project. These young women spend time individually tutoring students who may need more help to reach the standard or to excel in a particular class. Thank you to the ladies who are volunteering their time and talent at the Academy.

As the year goes on, donations of books are still arriving at the Academy for the library. Volunteers have been asked to log books into the system. If you would like to volunteer time in the evening or weekends to log books, please contact this website at webmaster@sppacademy.org  or call the Academy to arrange at 761-SPPA (7772). 

Thank you to all those benefactors who continue to give generously to the Academy. Many people send in a weekly donation to the Academy. Others send in checks monthly. All donations are greatly appreciated. The outlook is bright for Sts. Peter and Paul Academy. The Lord continues to bless this mission. If you feel that the Lord is asking you to contribute to this mission, you may make a tax-deductible financial contribution to: St. Pete's Endowment Fund and mail to: Sts. Peter and Paul Academy, 231 Clark Road, Reading, Ohio 45215. We also rely heavily on those offering up their prayers for the success of the Academy. We feel that this is how the Academy came into existence, through the everyday miracles and workings of the Holy Spirit. We continue to pray the Rosary every Thursday evening at 6pm and ask for your prayers at that time to be offered up for the

Please pass the word to those who have school-age children, the Academy is now enrolling students for the 08-09 school year. Stronger than ever, the Academy is thriving and continues to be a stable and secure school for the children of the Valley and beyond. There is no fear of future consolidations or closings at the Academy. If you know of someone who is looking for a Faith-filled, community-oriented school of high standards for their child, please tell them of the Academy. Children from any denomination, race or creed are welcome at the Academy. Sts. Peter and Paul Academy again offers this private education at one of the lowest tuition rates in the area. Currently classes are offered from all-day Kindergarten through 8th grade. If you would like more information or a tour, please call 761-7772 to set up an appointment. We would love for you to be part of this "Miracle on Clark Road."

Posted February 14th 

St. Valentine was celebrated at the Academy today in a few ways. Students dressed out of uniform, many of them in red, for a donation of $1 to be given to the "Students Share Their Love" campaign to benefit the Lasita Triplet Fund. At 10:30 schools who had chosen to participate in this campaign were invited to SPPA for a check presentation to the Lasita Triplets Fund.

The schools that participated each had a story to share. Their stories were beautiful and reinforced our original thoughts that we should try to help the Lasita babies that had gone through this tragedy. Milford Pre-School and Milford Head Start told how the children wanted to help the family when they heard about the fire. Many of the little ones wanted to bring in clothes and even write letters to Santa Claus asking him to bring toys to the Lasita children who had lost their Christmas toys in the fire. Holly Hill Elementary had a penny drive. One girl alone brought in $75 worth of coins. The penny drive was so successful that it took 4 hours at the change machines to empty the pennies. Their coordinator laughed as she said they broke every coin counting machine in their county. Roger Bacon High School had just completed the Polar Bear Plunge fundraiser when they heard about the Lasita family and decided to help. Dan Nolan, their outreach coordinator, knew they wanted to help but wasn't sure how. With the help from students and alumni, Roger Bacon turned in over $1000 to the Lasita Triplet Fund. St. Bernadette had also just completed a fundraiser when they heard about the Lasita's. That didn't stop them from meeting the challenge of $1 per student. They raised their funds through a jeans day. Marr-Cook Elementary held a "Triple Treat Day" for $1 per student in honor of the triplets. When they brought their check for the Lasitas, the students were dressed in pajamas. The "Triple Treat Day" included wearing pajamas, watching a movie and getting a treat. How creative! Sts. Peter and Paul Academy had many generous donors along with the children paying $1 for out of uniform day. We turned in $677.50 for the Lasitas.

Rumpke Recycling also joined in the campaign to benefit the Lasitas. Along with the donation, Ann Grey brought mascot "Binny" back again for pictures. The kids enjoyed "Binny" very much. 

With the weather, and as much school has been missed for sickness, some schools could not be here today. St. Antoninus, St. Boniface, Reading Hilltop and Reading Central schools participated but could not attend. These schools are still mailing their checks in, so the total is not complete. However $3566.85 was turned into 5th/3rd bank, another $955.65 was received and more still arriving. So to date, the tot