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St. Monica Dads’ Club – Meeting Minutes
Date: August 14, 2025
Location: Sparkman Club Estates
Total Dads: 171
1. Opening
- Meeting opened with prayer led by Father G.
- Welcome remarks by Michael Singleton.
- Purpose of the Dads’ Club reiterated: provide volunteer support (“sweat equity”) for school and parish activities, and foster community connections.2. Administrative Items
- Minutes from the previous meeting were presented; motion to approve was made and seconded.
- Safe Environment badges: available for pickup at the front desk; system updates in progress through the Diocese.
- School calendar reminders:
• August 29: No school
• September 1: Labor Day
- School celebrating 70 years on October 21.3. School Updates
- New classroom furniture delivered for 1st and 2nd grades.
- 4th grade candidate visit scheduled for August 15, 2025.
- Teachers raised $500 to sponsor breakfast for St. Rita staff.4. Annual Bearcat Fund (Arno Family)
- Goal: $200,000; campaign ends September 8.
- Proceeds above goal will fund playground renovation.
- Incentive: raffle for 2 Mavericks tickets for families who contribute $1,000 to close their gap.5. Treasurer’s Report (Phillip Ramos)
- Events (e.g., Calcutta, Spaghetti Dinner) raised $103,000+.
- Gala profit: $204,000.
- Net Income: $173,000, exceeding budget by $69,000.
- School commitment: $85,000 fulfilled.
- Additional contributions: Christmas Purse ($13,000) and $2,000 in scholarships.
- Current balance: $63,000 (with $6,300 liabilities).
- Motion to approve report passed.6. Gala Update (Zach Henderson)
- Focus on Autumn Fest as first priority.
- Gala scheduled for April 18; venue booked and paid.7. Fundraising & Events
- “Night Out with Friends” fundraiser planned.
- Sip, Smoke, and Deal event: October 3 ($100 buy-in).
- Day of Dads: volunteering for lunch duty and playground supervision; Safe Environment badge required. Sign-up available via school website.8. Athletics Report
- All volunteers must present a driver’s license (Raptor screening required).
- Participation:
• Cross Country: 51 students
• Football: 63 students (JV pads arriving; Varsity scrimmage vs. Good Shepherd scheduled)
• Volleyball: tryouts underway; 6 alumni playing varsity at Ursuline.9. Other Announcements
- Grade-level captains reinstated as communication liaisons.
- Back-to-School volunteers needed.
- Upcoming events:
• Cornhole Tournament: September 11
• Salute to Service (Veterans Day, with St. Rita): November 2010. Closing Items
- “Pot of Gold” raffle held (50/50 split).
- Introductions of new dads.
- Motion to close meeting approved. -
St. Monica Dads’ Club – Meeting Minutes
Date: September 11, 2025
Location: Sparkman Club
Total Dads: 131
1. Opening
- Meeting opened by Mike Singleton.
- Prayer and blessing led by Father G.
- Brief college football update shared.
- Purpose of the Dads’ Club reiterated: to support school and parish through volunteerism and community involvement.2. Principal & Security Update (Principal Garza)
- Weekly mass now scheduled on Wednesdays at 9:15 AM.
- Two designated egress locations; doors locked at 9:15 AM until mass concludes.
- DPD to provide staff training on active shooter preparedness.
- Discussion held on how Dads’ Club can best support school activities.3. Administrative Items
- Minutes from the previous meeting approved.
- Autumn Fest update by Mary and Jackie:
• Sponsorship opportunities available (e.g., Adopt-a-Cop – $5,000; Teacher Sponsorship – $300).
• Bands booked: Topanga (After Dark), School of Rock, and a Taylor Swift Cover Band.
• Raffle: $10,000 grand prize, with multiple weekly winners.
• Dads’ Club members to contact Martin for ticket information.4. Treasury Report
- Current cash position: approximately $65,000 (Gala fund).
5. Principal’s Report (Stephanie Garza)
- Bearcat Annual Fund exceeded goal of $210,000; excess funds directed to playground improvements.
- All parents asked to sign the school handbook.
- Testing window currently in progress (two weeks).
- Pre-K–2nd Grade celebrating Dot Day.
- Saturday: JCUA Car Wash.
- Parent Survey response rate: 47%. Feedback included:
• Strengths: Strong community, school safety, high parent recommendation rate.
• Areas for improvement: Math, Science, Spanish, Special Programs, Middle School Transition, and Consistency across grades.
• Lunch Program: under review for potential changes.6. Athletics Report (Nev)
- Cross Country season closed with 74 runners; Dads’ Club support requested for race assistance.
- Next race scheduled for October 11.
- Football: JV concluded practice (bye week); Varsity game Sunday at 1:00 PM.
- Volleyball: games scheduled for this Saturday.7. Events & Fundraisers
- Spaghetti Dinner & Float Race (Sam):
• Major community event.
• Sausage making Friday at 8:00 AM.
• Football squares available to support cleanup fundraising.
- Gala (Zach): planning progressing well; next meeting to establish committees.
- Night Out with Friends – “Sip, Smoke, and Deal” on October 3 at Sparkman.
- Day of Dads: 5 volunteers per session; next date October 3 for 5th grade.
- Grade-Level Captains reintroduced to enhance communication within each grade.8. Upcoming Dates & Meetings
- Next Dads’ Club Meeting: October 10.
- Autumn Fest: October 18.
- Salute to Service (Veterans Day event with St. Rita): November 20.9. Closing
- Meeting attended by 131 dads.
- Meeting adjourned with closing remarks from leadership. -
St. Monica Dads’ Club – Meeting Minutes
Date: October 9, 2025
Location: Sparkman Club
Total Dads - 71
1. Opening
- Meeting opened by Michael Singleton with welcome remarks.
- Deacon Bob provided the opening blessing.
- Scott from St. Rita attended to discuss the upcoming Salute to Service event.
- Motion to approve previous meeting minutes made by Fred Trevino; seconded and unanimously approved.2. Mission & Engagement
- Mission of the St. Monica Dads’ Club reviewed.
- ‘Be One, Bring One’ initiative: each dad encouraged to invite a new member to participate.
- Day of Dads program continues – next volunteer day for 7th grade on October 24 (sign-up via email).
- Safe Environment process is active – all volunteers must register or renew their certification.3. Autumnfest PTO Update
- Autumnfest scheduled for next week.
- Raffle tickets: $20 each for a chance to win $10,000.
- Incentive: bottle of tequila for drawing at end of the night.
- Setup to begin Friday after 1 PM; volunteers needed for setup support.
- Fundraising goal: $225,000.
- Concert scheduled at the conclusion of the event.
- Sponsorship information and volunteer sign-up links available in the Bearcat Byte newsletter.
- Volunteers encouraged to sign up through Martin.4. Campus Security Update
- Mass services running smoothly with current security procedures in place.
- Enhanced police and security presence at recent football game events.
- Roof access across the street secured; no external entry points.
- Autumnfest will maintain a strong police and security presence.
- Father G requested 10 dads to participate in the usher program to serve at Mass.5. Salute to Service (Scott – St. Rita)
- Joint St. Monica / St. Rita event hosted at the Terry Center.
- Guest Speaker: Clint Bruce – former Navy SEAL and NFL player.
- Event supports One Tribe Foundation (Jake Ship) and St. Vincent de Paul.
- Raised $60,000 last year.
- Tickets $35; table sponsorships available.
- Event includes catering and beverages.
- Open to 11 invited schools; event now recognized within the Catholic Diocese.
- Raffle prizes available; event link shared via Dads’ Club email.6. Treasurer’s Report
- Financial update presented; motion to approve made, seconded, and passed.
7. Principal’s Report (Principal Garza)
- Report cards to be distributed October 16.
- October 17 is a half day; parent-teacher conferences scheduled soon after.
- Early release on Thursday, October 30.8. Athletics Report
- Cheerleading: Varsity preparing for Little Paws with 143 participants.
- Cross Country: first meet scheduled this weekend.
- Football: upcoming game vs. St. Thomas this weekend.
- Volleyball: nearing end of season and entering playoff phase.9. Events & Fundraising
- Gala Update:
• Sponsorship party scheduled for February 7.
• Gala set for April 18.
- Spaghetti Dinner and Sausage Making deemed successful.
- Night Out with Friends – Sip, Smoke, and Deal: Nick MacDonald won; second event planned (Card Night Out).
- New Dad Happy Hour scheduled for October 29.10. Upcoming Meetings & New Business
- Next Dads’ Club Meeting: November 13.
- Deacon Bob discussed upcoming Diaconate class beginning in January; interested members encouraged to reach out.
- Program is at Master’s level; currently only three Deacons serving at St. Monica.
- Father Bierschenk has officially retired.11. Closing
- Meeting attendance: 71 dads.
- Meeting adjourned with closing remarks. -
Meeting 4
Date: November 13, 2025
Location: Sparkman Club
Attendance: 63 Dads
1. Opening
Meeting called to order by President Michael Singleton.
Romeo provided the opening blessing.
The meeting began by recognizing and thanking all veterans for their service.
Jacko presented the POW/MIA Remembrance Table, honoring those who have served and sacrificed.
Members were encouraged to support the upcoming Salute to Service event benefiting One Tribe Foundation, St. Vincent de Paul, and Toys for Tots.
Motion to approve the October meeting minutes was made, seconded, and unanimously approved.
2. Mission & Member Engagement
The Dads' Club mission was reaffirmed with the continued challenge to "Be One, Bring One."
A special thank you was extended to the 7th Grade Day of Dads volunteers for their outstanding participation.
The 1st Grade Day of Dads was announced for November 19, with additional volunteers encouraged to participate.
3. Campus Security Update
Angela Nordyke provided the monthly campus security update.
Members were reminded that campus safety continues to be a priority through the collaborative efforts of school administration, volunteers, and parish leadership.
4. Treasurer's Report
Treasurer Phil Ramos presented the monthly financial report.
Highlights included:
Gala planning expenses have begun as preparations continue for the 2026 Gala.
The Club remains committed to:
Funding the annual Teacher Christmas Purse.
Supporting the Student Athlete of the Year Award.
Providing the annual financial contribution to St. Monica Catholic School.
Current assets total approximately $103,000.
5. Principal's Report
Principal Garza was unable to attend the meeting.
No school updates were presented.
6. Athletics Report
Coach Daniel Neves was unable to attend.
No athletics report was presented.
7. Gala Update
Gala Chairman Zach Henderson provided an update on the 2026 Gala.
Highlights included:
The 2026 Aloha Gala will be held on April 18, 2026 at The Hall on Dragon.
The annual Sponsorship Party is scheduled for February 7, 2026.
Members were encouraged to begin identifying sponsors and promoting the event.
The annual Night Out with Friends event has been rescheduled to December.
Details for the annual College Football Playoff Calcutta will be shared at the December meeting.
8. New Business
Appreciation was extended to everyone who helped prepare and serve the evening meal.
The Club welcomed two new dads to the organization.
9. Closing
President Singleton thanked everyone for their continued support and volunteerism.
Motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and unanimously approved.
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Date: December 11
Location: Sparkman Club
1. Opening
- Meeting called to order at 8:21 PM by Michael Singleton.
- Attendance: 53 members present.2. Administrative Items
- November meeting minutes were presented by Fred Trevino.
- Motion to approve was made, seconded, and unanimously approved.3. PTO & Christmas Purse Update
- PTO provided an update on the Christmas Purse initiative.
- $14,000 raised at the PTO event the prior evening.
- Christmas Purse raffle conducted at the conclusion of the meeting.4. Dads’ Club Financial Motions
- The Dads’ Club Board proposed allocating 15–20% of Calcutta fundraiser proceeds, subject to group approval.
- Motion was approved by the membership.5. Salute to Service Recap
- Event raised approximately $50,000.
- Guest speaker Clint Bruce was highly regarded.
- Strong collaboration noted between St. Rita and St. Monica.6. Day of Dads Program
- First Grade Day of Dads saw strong participation with more than 10 dads in attendance.
- Second Grade Day of Dads scheduled for December 12.7. Events & Recognition
- Cornhole Tournament of Champions winners: Adam Shank and John Reece.
- Former Detective Lee delivered a security-focused address.8. Treasurer’s Report
- November reflected limited income activity.
- Tuition Squares generated approximately $1,400.
- November closed with a net loss.
- Distributions included: Christmas Purse ($13,000) and Student Athlete Awards ($2,000).
- Year-end contribution to the school totaled $85,000.9. Principal’s Report (Principal Garza)
- Campus updates included new furniture for the STEM Lab and completion of a mural honoring Evy.
- Fifth-grade new hire announced with 17 years of experience.
- Fourth grade structure for the 2025–2026 school year to remain unchanged.
- Enrollment: one class of 22 students and two classes of 23 students.
- Hiring underway for the 2026–2027 school year.
- Weekly Mass to continue Wednesdays at 9:15 AM with doors secured at start time.
- New playground agreement finalized; 70% of funding provided by the PTO.10. Athletics Report (Nev)
- Cross Country season concluded with JV boys and girls finishing first; Varsity placed second.
- Co-ed soccer team finished first.
- Basketball practices underway with season beginning in January (20 teams total).
- Swim team captured all four trophies at the most recent meet.11. Gala Update
- Gala scheduled for April 18.
- Sponsorship party planned for February 7 in the gym.
- Contracts finalized for hotel and band.
- Save-the-date communication forthcoming.12. Next Meeting & Adjournment
- Next Dads’ Club meeting scheduled for January 22.
- Motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and approved. -
St. Monica Dads' Club – Meeting Minutes
Meeting 6
Date: January 22, 2026
Location: Sparkman Club
Attendance: 55 Dads
1. Opening
President Michael Singleton welcomed members and called the meeting to order.
Executive Board introductions were made.
Fr. Guadagnoli offered the opening prayer and remarks.
Motion to approve the previous meeting minutes was made, seconded, and unanimously approved.
2. Mission & Member Engagement
The mission of the St. Monica Dads' Club was reviewed, emphasizing support for the school through volunteer service and "sweat equity."
Members were encouraged to continue the "Be One, Bring One" initiative by inviting another dad to attend future meetings and events.
Congratulations were extended to:
Cornhole Champions: Adam Shank & John Reese
Chili Cook-Off Champion: Grant Brodeur
College Football Playoff Calcutta Winners: Gatlin & Romeo
Appreciation was extended to the 2nd Grade Day of Dads volunteers.
The next Day of Dads event will be hosted by the 4th Grade on February 6.
3. Community Update
Members were informed of the upcoming Sister Sister Community Lacrosse Clinic, a fundraising effort benefiting families impacted by the tragic loss of children during the previous summer.
The Club expressed its support for the community initiative.
4. Campus Security Update
Angela Nordyke and Lee Allen were unable to attend due to inclement weather.
No campus security update was presented.
5. Treasurer's Report
Treasurer Phil Ramos presented the monthly financial report.
Financial statements remain strong as Gala planning continues.
Members were reminded that Gala fundraising remains a major focus for the second half of the school year.
6. Principal's Report
Principal Stephanie Garza provided several school updates.
Highlights included:
Appreciation was extended to the Dads' Club for the Teacher Christmas Purse.
Re-enrollment continues with the deadline set for January 31.
Admissions testing is underway, with strong interest from prospective families.
The Open House has been postponed due to weather.
Catholic Schools Week activities begin next week.
Parents were encouraged to obtain their Safe Environment badges to continue participating in campus volunteer opportunities, including school lunches.
Families were reminded to label jackets and coats during the winter season.
7. Athletics Report
Coach Daniel Neves provided the athletics update.
Basketball season continues with two weeks of league play completed.
Teams continue to perform well across multiple grade levels.
Weather may impact the upcoming weekend schedule pending league decisions.
8. Gala Update
An update was provided on preparations for the upcoming 2026 Aloha Gala.
Members were encouraged to attend the February 7 Sponsorship Party and begin supporting sponsorship efforts leading into Gala season.
9. Closing
President Singleton thanked members for their continued commitment to the school and parish as the spring semester begins.
Motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and unanimously approved.
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Meeting 8
Date: March 24, 2026
Location: Sparkman Club
Attendance: 65 Dads
1. Opening
Meeting called to order by President Michael Singleton.
The meeting began with a remembrance of John Hutcheson. Members joined together in prayer and offered a Hail Mary in his memory.
Executive Board introductions were made.
Motion to approve the February meeting minutes was made, seconded, and unanimously approved.
2. Campus Security Update
Security officers continue to provide coverage on campus from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Coach Nevs continues coordinating security for athletic events.
Additional police officers will be present for Easter Mass.
St. Monica has been invited to participate in the House Bill 33 emergency response program in partnership with local law enforcement. The program is federally funded and provides enhanced emergency preparedness at no cost to the parish.
Volunteers are still needed to serve as ushers to assist with campus security during weekend Masses.
3. Treasurer's Report
The Treasurer reported a current balance of approximately $151,000.
Financials were reviewed with the membership.
4. Principal's Report
Principal Garza was unable to attend the meeting.
No school updates were presented.
5. Athletics Report
Coach Nevs provided an update on Bearcat Athletics.
Basketball season concluded with the 8th Grade Girls capturing the championship.
Baseball, softball, and varsity track seasons are underway.
Registration information for JV Track will be distributed soon.
The 7th Grade Girls Cheer Summit is scheduled for early April.
6. Gala & Golf Updates
Aloha Gala
Volunteers are still needed for Gala setup, guest check-in, and event teardown.
Members were encouraged to continue supporting the Gala through volunteer service.
Golf Classic
Matt Wright provided an update on the Golf Classic.
Tournament scheduled for Friday, May 8 at Luna Vista Golf Course.
Registration is officially open.
Members were encouraged to begin forming teams and securing sponsorships.
7. New Business
Initial discussion regarding upcoming Board elections for the 2026-2027 school year.
Members were encouraged to begin thinking about nominations for leadership positions.
8. Upcoming Events
April Dads' Club Meeting – April 16
Aloha Gala – April 18
Golf Classic – May 8
9. Closing
President Singleton thanked everyone for their continued involvement and support.
Motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and approved.
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St. Monica Dads' Club – Meeting Minutes
Meeting 9
Date: April 16, 2026
Location: Sparkman Club
Attendance: 48 Dads
1. Opening
President Michael Singleton welcomed members and opened the meeting.
Father G provided the opening blessing.
Executive Board introductions were made.
Motion to approve the March meeting minutes was made, seconded, and unanimously approved.
2. Aloha Gala Update
Gala Chairman Zach Henderson provided the final event update.
The 2026 Aloha Gala officially sold out, including all tables and individual tickets.
Volunteers were still needed for event setup, guest check-in, and teardown.
Members were encouraged to preregister online prior to the event.
The Silent Auction would open online prior to Gala weekend.
3. Community Support
An update was provided regarding support efforts for Hector Duran.
Members were encouraged to continue supporting the family through the GoFundMe campaign and community outreach efforts.
4. Campus Security Update
No significant security updates were reported.
5. Treasurer's Report
Treasurer reported approximately $166,000 in Dads' Club accounts.
Financial position remains strong heading into Gala season.
6. Principal's Report
Principal Stephanie Garza provided several campus updates.
Playground construction continues to progress.
Athletic field construction is scheduled to begin May 4.
Roof replacement project will take place over the summer.
A new cafeteria provider has been selected.
Parent survey information will be distributed.
School Advisory Council applications close Friday.
MAP testing is wrapping up.
Field Day is scheduled for April 30.
First Holy Communion celebrations were successfully held.
The revised traffic flow following the 9:15 AM Mass will continue during the 2026-2027 school year.
7. Athletics Report
Baseball and track seasons continue.
JV Baseball currently holds a 3-2 record.
Varsity Track continues competition with strong participation.
JV Track begins in May.
Sports Banquet dates were announced.
8. Golf Classic Update
Matt Wright provided a Golf Classic update.
Tournament scheduled for Friday, May 8.
Hole sponsorships remain available.
Volunteers are needed on tournament day.
Members were encouraged to donate bottles for the putting contest.
Alto ride-share discount information will be distributed.
Appreciation was extended to tournament sponsors.
9. Closing
Members enjoyed dinner provided by Cantina La Rosa.
Motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and approved.
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St. Monica Dads' Club – Meeting Minutes
Meeting 10
Date: May 14, 2026
Location: Sparkman Club
Attendance: 90 Dads
1. Opening
President Michael Singleton called the meeting to order at 8:07 PM.
Executive Board members were introduced.
President Singleton welcomed everyone to the final Dads' Club meeting of the 2025–2026 school year and thanked the membership for another successful year of fellowship, volunteerism, and service to St. Monica Catholic School.
Father Guadagnoli offered the opening prayer and blessing.
Motion to approve the April meeting minutes was made, seconded, and unanimously approved.
2. Gala Wrap-Up
Gala Chairman Zach Henderson provided a recap of the 2026 Aloha Gala.
Highlights included:
Appreciation was extended to the countless volunteers, sponsors, donors, and families who helped make this year's Gala a tremendous success.
Special thanks were given to everyone who contributed their time and talents throughout Gala season.
The Gala continues to be one of the Dads' Club's largest annual fundraisers in support of St. Monica Catholic School.
3. Athletics Report
Coach Daniel Neves provided the final athletics update of the school year.
Highlights included:
Approximately 92% of eligible students participated in at least one athletic program during the school year.
More than 270 student-athletes represented St. Monica across all sports.
Spring athletic seasons are wrapping up.
Congratulations were extended to the Varsity Softball team on an outstanding season, finishing as championship runners-up.
The JV Track team will conclude its season with the final meet on Saturday.
4. Treasurer's Report
Treasurer Phil Ramos presented the year-end financial report.
Highlights included:
Approximately $150,000 in gross revenue generated during the fiscal year.
The annual Golf Classic produced approximately $18,000 in net proceeds.
The Dads' Club reaffirmed its $3,000 commitment toward student athletic scholarships.
Year-end account balances remain strong at approximately $150,000.
A motion was presented to donate an additional $15,000 toward improvements to the St. Monica school cafeteria.
The motion was seconded and approved unanimously by the membership.
5. Principal's Report
Principal Stephanie Garza provided several campus updates.
Highlights included:
Construction of the new playground has been completed.
Athletic field improvements are scheduled to begin shortly.
The campus roof replacement project remains on schedule.
Members were invited to attend the St. Monica Alumni Concert on May 30 at Strokers Dallas.
Advance tickets are available for $25, with tickets increasing to $30 at the door.
6. 2026–2027 Executive Board Elections
President Singleton opened the floor for the election of the incoming Executive Board.
Following nominations and voting, the following officers were elected to serve during the 2026–2027 school year:
President: Sam Ackels
Vice President: James Albaugh
Sergeant at Arms: Bobby Timmer
Secretary: Eduardo
Deputy Treasurer: Tom Gilbert
Congratulations were extended to the incoming Board.
President Singleton also expressed his appreciation to the outgoing Executive Board and thanked all members for their leadership, service, and dedication throughout the past year.
7. Closing
Members enjoyed the annual Steak & Crawfish Boil, marking the close of another successful school year.
President Singleton thanked the membership for their continued commitment to the Dads' Club mission and encouraged everyone to remain engaged as the organization transitions into the 2026–2027 school year.
The meeting concluded following board elections and closing remarks.