MOTHERS’ CLUB
For more than a half century, the St. Thomas Mothers’ Club has served as a vibrant and invaluable volunteer support group, assisting in more than 30 events throughout the academic year, including the annual Auction & Gala, our signature fundraiser Round-Up and culminating with the annual Style Show & Luncheon.
This organization has a rich history of collaborating with school administrators to facilitate many of the social and cultural activities that make St. Thomas special and impact the overall success of the school.
Eagle mothers are encouraged to attend the Mothers’ Club general meetings to learn about the many ways they can volunteer to support St. Thomas. For every mom there is a fun and useful role that matches her interests and talents. We can’t wait for you to join us!

Dear St. Thomas Parents and Guardians,
Welcome to the new school year and to our St. Thomas Mothers’ Club! I am Emily Guyre and it is an honor to serve as the Mothers’ Club President for the 2022-2023 school year. The Mothers’ Club is both a service and social organization. Our role is to support the St. Thomas administration and encourage a strong parent community. We do this by overseeing many of the special events at the school and hosting monthly general meetings where valuable information is shared.
Whether you are the parent of a Senior or just joining the Eagle Family as the guardian of a Freshman, I invite you to take an active role in our organization. All parents and guardians of St. Thomas students automatically belong. With the help of our volunteers, we support over 20 events during the year, including the Welcome Tea, the annual Auction & Gala, Round-Up, and Style Show. There are plenty of opportunities to be involved with time commitments ranging from a little to a lot. Regardless of the level of involvement, we all share the common goal of supporting our sons on their journey to become true Men of St. Thomas.
I hope you make plans to attend our monthly general meetings and get to know the St. Thomas administration and fellow STH parents. The meetings will take place on the second Thursday of each month. I promise they will be informative and provide an opportunity to connect with members whose sons are new to the school and those who have a few years of experience to share. Every meeting will include reports from the school administration and various departments, as well as an opportunity to hear updates about the many events that the Mothers’ Club sponsors. Mass will take place in the chapel at 11:30am before the meeting, so take the opportunity to join your son! The meeting will begin at 12:00pm and lunch will be provided. We will also have a Zoom option available if you are not able to join us in person.
The Mothers’ Club Officers introduced the theme “Be the Reason” for the 2022-2023 school year. We hope this inspires you to be the reason why someone feels WELCOME, SEEN, HEARD, VALUED, LOVED and SUPPORTED. We are finally at a place where we can gather and celebrate one another so please make it a point to get involved and make new friends. Our Eagle Family will be better and stronger for having your participation.
My son Jackson is a Senior this year and he will soon become a member of the lifelong brotherhood enjoyed only by St. Thomas Alumni. While it is a bittersweet time, I am grateful the Mothers’ Club has allowed me to be a part of his high school journey by not only enriching his experiences but my family’s as well. I invite you to browse the website and see what you can do to get involved and “Be the Reason”. The connections you make with fellow STH families will last a lifetime!
Go Eagles,
Emily Guyre
2022-2023 St. Thomas Mothers’ Club President
Volunteer Sign-Up
We are happy to see your interest in volunteering for our STH community. Throughout the 2021-2022 school year, we have different activities in which you can participate in. We need YOU! For a full list of event & dates, click here for all volunteer opportunities. Please continue to check back for more details.
Leadership
2022-2023 EXECUTIVE BOARD
PRESIDENT*
Emily Guyre
sthmothersclubpres@gmail.com
VICE PRESIDENT*
Maria Morfin
mmorfin_3@yahoo.com
TREASURER*
Monica Sanchez
mls10272001@yahoo.com
RECORDING SECRETARY*
Stephanie Bourg
stephbourg@me.com
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
Barbara Villafranca
rb.villafranca@sbcglobal.net
PAST PRESIDENT
Amber Caver
cavercasa@gmail.com
AUCTION CO-CHAIRS
Maru Pruneda
marupruneda@icloud.com
Heather Curran Kelly
heather.curran.kelly@gmail.com
Jackie Wisnoski
jwisnoski@gmail.com
ROUND UP CO-CHAIRS
Paige Dominey
thedomineys@gmail.com
Megan Long
mlongesq@gmail.com
Carmen Trevino
sabrynaray@hotmail.com
STYLE SHOW CHAIRS
Angela Platsas
sthclass2023@gmail.com
Lisa Weaver
weaverSTHstyleshow@gmail.com
Melina Bellomo
melinabellomo@yahoo.com
*Indicates Mother’s Club Board
STH Mothers’ Club Calendar 2021-2022
Meetings will be held in St. Basil Hall.
Meetings available in person or via Zoom.
Mass occurs in the STH Chapel on the second floor directly above the Rotunda.
STH Mothers’ Club Meeting Minutes
- September 8, 2022
- September 1, 2022
- August 4, 2022
- March 10, 2022
- February 10, 2022
- January 13, 2022
- November 11, 2021
- October 14, 2021
- September 9, 2021
- April 6, 2021
- March 9, 2021
- February 9, 2021
- January 12, 2021
- November 10, 2020
- October 13, 2020
- October 6, 2020
- September 8, 2020
- August 18, 2020
Homecoming 101
- What is Homecoming (also called “HOCO” by the students)?
- Homecoming “HOCO” happens in the early fall, and celebrates school spirit and the pride of Texas Football. Most students in Texas, and certainly at STH, are aware that this celebratory weekend will create memories that last a lifetime. HOCO is open to all STH students their dates, and girls from our sister schools. (The sister schools have winter formals in January-February where the females invite the male students.) The weekend events include:
- Friday night, a home varsity football game kicks off the weekend at Granger (gron-ZHAY) Stadium.
- On Saturday evening, the Homecoming dance is held on campus.
- What is the date, time & location of both the game & dance?
- The homecoming weekend dates vary yearly, but are shared in advance via:
- The online STHS all-event calendar
- Our BIG RED NEWS publication
The game and dance are both on campus. Closer to the HOCO weekend, our Student Activities team will publicize the event all around the school and during EBN (Eagle Broadcast News).
- The homecoming weekend dates vary yearly, but are shared in advance via:
- What does “lock-in” mean for a dance?
- For all dances, STH implements lock-ins for the sake of safety. The benefit of a lock-in is to reassure parents that their teens are in a safe space. Once the lock-In time frame begins, no new students can enter the dance, nor can admitted students leave. The lock-in schedule is as follows for every dance we have:
- Lock-in starts at precisely 30 minutes past the official dance start time.
- Lock-in ends at precisely 30 minutes before the official dance end time.
Q: What happens if my son or any guest of the dance attempts to leave during lock-in?
A: The students are gently asked to go back and have a bit more fun; they are then reminded of when lock-in ends, and are usually given the time remaining so they can leave as soon as is allowed.
- For all dances, STH implements lock-ins for the sake of safety. The benefit of a lock-in is to reassure parents that their teens are in a safe space. Once the lock-In time frame begins, no new students can enter the dance, nor can admitted students leave. The lock-in schedule is as follows for every dance we have:
- How does my son get a date?
- Young people are connecting in new ways each year at STH and our sister schools.
- The greatest opportunity is shared social experiences prior to the dance; STH home football games are fertile ground for making new friends. This is also true for parents, so put on your STH fan gear, and come to a game.
- There are many activities at STH, such as Young Life meetings on Monday nights, Drama club, choir, and band – which are open to both Eagles and our sister schools.
Remember too that we offer an Orientation Dance for freshmen, and sometimes Sophomores at the beginning of the school year. Our sister schools – IWA, St. Agnes and Duchesne – also hold Orientation Dances; those details are disseminated through our Student Activities team to allow students to plan in advance.
- Young people are connecting in new ways each year at STH and our sister schools.
- Can a STH student ask a girl that does not attend a sister school?
- Definitely! Your son can bring the date of his choice, whether she attends a sister school or any other school. In order to do this, they must enter together as a couple.
- STH has a specific dress code for dances, which your son would want to provide to his date. This is located in your student handbook, which is here.
- Any young lady coming stag must be enrolled in a local Houston Catholic high school.
- Definitely! Your son can bring the date of his choice, whether she attends a sister school or any other school. In order to do this, they must enter together as a couple.
- Can boys from other schools attend the Homecoming game & dance?
- The football games are always open to the public; our dances are for our students, their dates, and in most cases, our sister school students, provided they are not bringing their own male date from outside of STH.
- Are there Homecoming invitations?
- There are no actual paper invitations. Some students ask a girl in a text, there have been posters made, flowers given and even stuffed animals involved in the quest for a date. The students come up with something new every year.
- What is the deadline for finding a date to homecoming?
- Our young men vary as greatly as the general population; some people ask early, others will ask at the last minute. Keep in mind the date will need adequate time to purchase appropriate dress attire. A big part of Homecoming is the “armband” and “mum” tradition (for young men and women, respectively). These have to be purchased in advance and are available through our Music Guild. HOCO Tickets are also advance-purchased; they are not available for purchase at the door.
- What do students wear to both the game or dance?
- Game: The dress-down uniform is appropriate, as per the STH Handbook. This includes: jeans or khakis that are not ripped, or shorts that are Dockers-style and not too short. Shirts can be t-shirts or collared shirts. Sneakers, socks and belts are also encouraged.
- Dance – Young Men: Sport Coat, dress slacks, dress shirt, tie, dress shoes and socks required. No head covering.
- Dance – Young Ladies: Attire must be in good taste, semi-formal in nature, modest and appropriate. No low cut, bare midriffs, bare back, or skin tight attire. Dress or skirt length may be 2 inches from the knee or lower. Dress shoes are required.
- What is a “Mum” and an “Armband”?
- A “Mum” is a chrysanthemum flower that has been decorated with little trinkets, glitter, little bears etc. and has ribbons hanging from it displaying the names of the STH student and his date. Long ago, the flower was real. The flowers are now silk. The mum is a gift from your son to his date.
- The “Armband” is a smaller version of the mum which the male student wears on his arm. These can be purchased by the young lady, or by the Eagle Mom.
- Both students exchange Mum/Armband prior to the football game on Friday evening either on campus or a location of their choice. The Mum/Armband exchange is a fun tradition, but not at all required.
- Where can I buy a Mum/Armband (which is only used for the football game)?
- Every year the Music Guild at STH hand makes and sells Mums and Armbands as a fundraiser for the school. Please, support STH by purchasing your Mum/Armband from them. NOTE: Mum/Armbands from STH are beautiful & less expensive
- How much does a Mum/Armband cost at STH?
- The Music Guild will post the cost of the Mums and Armbands in either the BIG RED NEWS or in the Mother’s Club Newsletter and provide a link to The Eagle Store where you can purchase the Mum or Armband
- What is the last day I can purchase a MUM or Armband?
- The last day to purchase a Mum/Armband is the Sunday night before Homecoming weekend to allow ample time for the order to be processed. If you miss that deadline, email the Music Guild to see if there are any options available. The Music Guild makes a limited number of mums and armbands so it is recommended to order as early as possible
- If I buy a Mum from STHS, when & where does my son pick it up?
- The Music Guild will post in the BIG RED NEWS or in the Mother’s Club Newsletter times and dates when your son can pick up his Mum. He can also pick up the Armband for his date too if she cannot. Pick up for STH students is usually The Saturday before HOCO from 10:00 – 2:00 and Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday after school from 3:00 to 5:00. *They are not open on Thursday or Friday.
- Pick up is in the band room. All sales must go through the Eagle Store and the student MUST bring their receipt for purchase. No sales will be made at pick up.
- *If you son has practice after school in any sport, he needs to go tell his coach first before he picks up his mum. The coaches know that they need to pick them up. They will work something out. Tell your son not to shove his Mum into his backpack. That will crush the Mum and the Mum will not be replaced.
Armbands pick up follows the same procedure.
- When & where does my son give his Mum to his date?
- This is up to each family; it is most common to give the mum to his date before the Football game, and if possible, a parent may want to be available to snap photos. The same is true for the armband; the young lady would help him put it on, creating a perfect picture moment! For 2021 be on the lookout for a Mum Exchange Photo backdrop on campus.
- Does the STH student and his date exchange corsage & boutonniere the night of the dance?
- It is traditional and in good taste to exchange these with one another before the dance; your son and his date are not required at all to do this, and if finances are a concern, they can agree to make it simple and go without.
- Where can I order a corsage or boutonniere?
- A local florist is ideal; you may also have good results supermarket floral departments.
- Does the dance have food & drinks?
- This will vary in terms of offerings, but refreshments are provided. It is common to have light snacks and an assortment of beverages, including water, soft drinks and often Gatorade, for all guests. This is part of the overall ticket purchase, so no additional cash is needed for the dance.
- Do the students go to dinner before the game and dance?
- Food is plentiful at the game via concessions, but it’s also possible to go to dinner early beforehand. Either option is common, and there are even other options that work well for each family.
- For the dance night, it is common to go to dinner beforehand, either as dates or in a group. It’s a great idea to be creative as well – talk to your son about what he thinks would be most fun, and encourage him to get his date’s opinion too!
- DO Consider:
- Scheduling a group meeting time and location to take pictures prior to the dance. This allows all parents to meet and carpooling to dinner and dance for those students who don’t drive yet.
- Making reservations if eating at a restaurant; some of the local favorites are in high demand during HOCO season; the reservation time needs to take into consideration the lock-in time to insure timely arrival at STH. Many restaurants offer a special “Dance Menu” that includes beverages, appetizers, entrée, tax and tip which will simplify splitting the tab.
Having dinner for your son, his date, and their friends at your home. It’s not only more fun, but you could win the Mom of the Year award!
- Do I contact the parents of his date?
- It is very thoughtful and well-received to reach out to the parents of your son’s. This may actually be the start of a long friendship, which is a bonus.
- How much are the tickets to the dance?
- Buying tickets is easy, and in some cases, zero-effort.
- The normal way: Tickets will be available on our STH Store ahead of time. Our Student Activities team will announce availability as soon as the listing has been posted.
- The cost for homecoming tickets is usually $35/ticket, though this can change.
- The Zero-Effort Way: If your son is a participant/member of Walk-a-Thon (our student council fundraiser), he can purchase the Platinum Level package, which covers the Homecoming ticket Bundle (2 tickets, worth $70). Some extra info to note:
- To be Platinum, the cost is typically $125 and covers MANY activities all year, not just HOCO.
- If your son is a member of the Platinum level package, all he will need to do is show his ID at the door of HOCO. The attendant will check their list, and see that your son (and his date) are already covered for their HOCO tickets.
- Information on Walk-A-Thon is provided around mid-September by Student Activities; stay tuned!
- When and where can my son purchase his ticket for him & his date?
- The STH store online will be the sole opportunity to purchase tickets. For the sake of safety, cash acceptance at the door is not an option. Your son will know that tickets are on sale if he is alert during the daily announcements, and/or if he reads emails.
- Our sister schools are pre-advised as well, and given instructions on how to purchase tickets on our school site.
Everyone must bring their ID
- Can the students arrive to the dance in a limousine, shuttle or bus?
- These vehicles are not allowed at Homecoming, but are often an option at Prom.
- Is there a photographer at the dance?
- In most cases, a photographer is available.
- Is there a DJ or a band that plays at the dance?
- Our Student Activities leader, Mr. O’Brien, has the best contacts in the business, and spares no effort to make the music amazing. Not only is the music excellent, it is in line with our values, to the extent that profanity and the like is avoided. He will often purchase special lighting to create ambience, as well.
- Where do the students put their jackets, coats or purses at the dance?
- This varies yearly, but we always offer the option to check personal belongings. In many cases, it will be a required action, for the safety of our students.
- About student safety: Your son and his date may be randomly asked to show what is in their pockets, their handbags and on their personal self or submit to a breathalyzer test. This is all to avoid casualties that result from substances we don’t allow. If the faculty suspect that any alcohol is present, parents will be immediately contacted for pick-up. It’s critical that you ask your son and his date to be cautious and avoid risking this situation — mainly for safety reasons
- What if my son doesn’t get a date for Homecoming?
- It is very common for students to go as a group, or ‘stag’. This is not just common, but often preferred when students don’t necessarily feel ready for a real date yet. Allow your son the freedom to choose what works well for him, and above all, let him know that he is in great company. Tickets are sold at individual prices, as well as “couples” packages. This will be an easy choice to identify when purchasing tickets online. (www.store.sths.org)
- How can I help my son with his first-date experience?
- Remind your son that he is a Man of St. Thomas; a gentleman. He represents the school. Remind him of his manners and to make an effort to engage in conversation. Tell him to always open the door for the girl and pull out her chair for her to sit. Be kind and respectful at all times. It is always polite to ask if she wants something to drink at the dance and Do Not “Ditch” Your Date. Remind him that it is just a date so have fun and enjoy the night!
- How can I help with Homecoming?
- We need all the volunteers we can get. Please, jump in and help!!
- In terms of preparing for the dance itself, there are many ways to assist:
- Consult the Dance Chair Mom who is going to need chaperones and volunteers, and possibly other helpers…. Look for the sign-up genius.
- Offer to help with decorations; contact the Dance Chair Mom.
- Offer your help for fellow parents – perhaps you can host a dinner for several of the couples, or offer to take photos of them, so that the other parents can just relax at home.
Make your support known to all the other moms you meet; maybe you know of a great place to find suit jackets for your sons, or you have a friend who owns a floral shop that can offer great deals on boutonnieres or corsages. Be the person that you’d want on your own team, and watch how much more meaningful your STH experience will become.
Auction 101
Q: What, when, and where is the St. Thomas Auction?
A: The STH Auction & Gala is a major fundraiser for St. Thomas High School, benefitting our current and future students. The 2022 Auction is on Saturday, November 5, 6:00 p.m., at St. Thomas High School.
Q: What’s the format of the Auction?
A: Starting two weeks before Auction, you can browse and bid on the many Silent Auction baskets and items and support the Teacher Wish List via BidPal mobile bidding. You will be able purchase Raffle Tickets and “play” the Wine & Spirits Pull. Live Auction and Big Board will feature great vacations, dinners, special events and more. Golden Ticket purchase will only be available at Auction.
Q: How can I sponsor and/or buy a table or tickets?
A: A variety of Table and Sponsorship Levels will be available for purchase. To purchase a table and access sponsorship information click here.
Q: How can I help make the Auction a success?
A: If you have something to donate, access the donor form here, and contact a Chair listed below.
Q: What’s the Auction Raffle?
A: Purchase your chance to win a custom-designed piece of jewelry. Only 100 raffle tickets ($100 each) will be sold. You do not have to be present to win.
Q: What’s the Golden Ticket?
A: Purchase your chance to take home the Live Auction item of your choice. Sales are only available at Auction. You must be present at Auction during the drawing at dinner.
Q: How can I support the Wine & Spirits Pull?
A: We have two events benefitting the Wine & Spirits Pull. Bring a bottle or make a cash donation worth $50+ to join the events. (You can also purchase a bottle at Specs event.)
- Specs Cooler Experience(4201 Smith St.) – Tuesday, August 30, 6:00 p.m. RSVP required/space limited
- Football Tailgate (The Grove; STH vs. Kinkaid game) –Friday, September 30, 6:00 p.m.
Q: How can I help the Auction Committee?
A: Sign up for volunteer opportunities.
Q: How is Auction information/updates communicated?
A: Keep an eye out for the Auction newsletter, Playbill, communicated via Big Red News emailed on Wednesdays. Also, attend Auction All-Committee meetings, and Mothers’ Club August, September and October meetings (dates announced via Big Red News).
Click here for the Auction & Gala webpage.
2022 Auction & Gala Chairs
Heather Curran Kelly (heather.curran.kelly@gmail.com)
Maru Pruneda (marupruneda@gmail.com)
Jackie Wisnoski (jwisnoski@gmail.com)
Round Up 101
Q: What is St. Thomas High School Round Up?
A: Round Up is one of the “Big 3” fundraising events held annually by the St. Thomas community. One of the oldest traditions at St. Thomas, Round Up is a “Community-wide” event run by current parents and Alumni. Round Up began in 1927 as the “St. Thomas Bazaar” and became an annual tradition in 1945. Over the years, the season and name may have changed, but not the desire to bring together friends and the entire St. Thomas community to celebrate what makes us special. As a fundraiser, all proceeds go to the STH Scholarship Fund which in turn goes directly to the boys as STH provides financial assistance to approximately one third of our students!
Held every year on the first Sunday of March, this year’s Round Up is scheduled, for Sunday March 5, 2022 (12pm-6pm). Round Up will look different this year, like everything else this past year, but our Round Up Chairs are working to finalize all details.
Q: What is a “Quota” and why is that all my son is talking about now?
A: The Raffle component of Round Up is how the largest portion of the scholarship money is raised, with each student responsible for selling at least a “quota” (15 books) of raffle tickets. Collectively, the students are challenged to reach a particular goal of total ticket sales to earn incentives such as t-shirts, school outings, and school holidays!
Q: How much do raffle tickets cost and what can be won?
A: Raffle tickets sell for $5 each, or a book of tickets (4 tickets per book) sells for $20. Students are encouraged to sell tickets however they can – to family, friends, and neighbors, at your church, etc. – and the school provides opportunities for the students to sell tickets by volunteering for phone-a-thons to call alumni or by providing contact lists for alumni that live in your zip code.
Q: How can I help make the Round Up a Success?
A: What remains is the same this year for Round Up is that we need YOUR help. Everyone has a role to play in making Round Up a success. There are all kinds of ways to help; little, big, you choose! Learn all about the ways you can help at the first Round Up meeting –
Round Up Meetings
Meeting #1: Thursday, January 20th, 6:00 p.m. – St. Basil Hall
Meeting #2: Thursday, February 17, 6:00 p.m. – St. Basil Hall
Meeting #3: Thursday, March 3, 6:00 p.m. – Cemo Auditorium
Round Up: Sunday, March 5, Noon to 6:00 p.m.
Q: Who should I contact to get involved and where can I get more information about Round Up?
A: Any of the Round Up Chairs would be happy to answer any questions or suggest ways to get involved!
For Round Up 2023 Please contact:
- Melina Bellomo – Eagle Court (832) 4393687, melinabellomo@yahoo.com
- Paige Dominey – Food Court (713) 725.2225, thedomineys@gmail.com
- Barbara Villafranca – Carrnival and games, (713) 614-3481, rb.villafranca@sbcglobal.net
Stay tuned for more information to come! Click here for Round Up Home page.
Style Show 101
St. Thomas Style Show & Luncheon
When: April 28, 2023
Where: River Oaks Country Club
Who is invited? All parents and friends of St. Thomas. This includes all grades!
Who participates in Style Show & Rose Ceremony: Senior boys and their moms.
What will volunteers do? Decorations, reservations, check-in, Silent Auction & Mystery Bag Solicitations, assist mom and son models, and much more!
What is the Style Show?
The Style Show luncheon has been a STH tradition for 50+ years. The senior boys will showcase their various interests such as leadership, sports, theatre, band, hobbies, etc. The senior moms model the new Spring fashion styles from Dillard’s. The senior boys and STH cheerleader biographies will be read as they strut down the runway stage. Senior boys write endearing letters to their moms. These are read on stage to their mom as he presents her with a red rose. The event wraps up with the boys taking one last walk together around the runway while grinning ear to ear & wearing a baseball cap from the university they plan to attend!
COME AND JOIN US IN THIS TRADITION: WHETHER IT IS VOLUNTEERING, PARTICIPATING, ATTENDING OR ALL OF THE ABOVE! Limited Tables & Tickets available.
Questions & additional info: Catherine Chandler | 713.864.6348 x 154 or catherine.chandler@sths.org
THE MOTHERS’ CLUB of ST. THOMAS HIGH SCHOOL
4500 Memorial Drive Houston, Texas 77007
BYLAWS
ARTICLE I
NAME
The name of this organization shall be the Mothers’ Club of St. Thomas High School.
ARTICLE II
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Mothers’ Club is to provide a vehicle through which mothers or guardians of the students may be able to assist the Basilian Fathers and faculty in furthering the students’ spiritual, academic, cultural and athletic development. All activities of the Club must meet with the approval of its moderator who shall be appointed by President of the school.
ARTICLE III
MEMBERSHIP
The membership of the Club shall consist of mothers or guardians of boys who are registered for that school year in St. Thomas High School.
ARTICLE IV
THE BOARD
The Board shall consist of the Executive Board, the Immediate Past President, Chairpersons of Round-Up, Style Show and Auction, Staff Liaison, and the Club Moderator.
The Executive Board shall consist of five officers: President, Vice President, Communications Secretary, Recording Secretary, and Treasurer.
Only the Executive Board has voting rights; three members of the Executive Board present and voting constitutes a quorum.
In the event one of the five officers is unable to complete her term as an officer, the Club Moderator shall call a special meeting. The Club Moderator, the Staff Liaison, and the Executive Board will appoint a person to fill the vacancy. This appointee will be announced at the next Mothers’ Club Meeting or via electronic communications as needed.
ARTICLE V
DUTIES
Section 1. Executive Board: The duty of the Executive Board members is to develop the Mothers’ Club Annual Budget, approve all expenditures, and establish and oversee committees to conduct the work of the Mothers’ Club.
Section 2. President: It shall be the duty of the President to preside at all the meetings and perform all other duties pertaining to the office, including but not limited to the following:
- The President shall serve as the official representative of the Mothers’ Club.
- The President shall serve on the Selection Committee.
- The President shall appoint all committee chairpersons, with the assistance of the Vice President and the Executive Board.
- The chairpersons of Auction, Style Show and Round-Up, shall be appointed by the current school President in collaboration with the Mothers’ Club President, Staff Liaison, the Vice President of Advancement, the immediate Past President, and the current chairs. This process will be conducted at a time that would allow for the committees to begin their work in a timely fashion related to their event. The newly appointed chairpersons shall be responsible for appointing the chairpersons of their respective sub-committees.
- The President may also appoint chairpersons from time to time to coordinate unscheduled events and/or newly established programs or functions.
- Communicate with the Principal and Mothers’ Club Moderator on a regular or as needed basis regarding issues that impact or directly relate to the Mothers’ Club.
- The President, in conjunction with the recording secretary, shall schedule a meeting space with the school for all general meetings and events of the Mother’s Club.
- The President shall facilitate the Christmas Gift Fund.
Section 3. Vice-President: It shall be the duty of the Vice President to preside in the absence of the President. The Vice President will assist the President in the performance of the President’s duties. The Vice President shall assist the President regarding committee chair appointments. The Vice President is responsible for updating, distributing and collecting the various event/committee binders and for maintaining a Master Binder containing pertinent information regarding every event chaired by the Mothers’ Club. The Master Binder will reside in the office of the Staff Liaison. The Vice President is responsible for organizing a Maintenance Staff Appreciation Luncheon in the early spring. The Vice President shall review and maintain the Bylaws and shall confirm all special guest speakers for general meetings.
Section 4. Communications Secretary: It shall be the duty of the Communications Secretary to conduct all general correspondence as directed by the President, including coordinating email blasts by the grade level parents and social media outlets. The Communications Secretary shall also be responsible for collecting, organizing and reporting news from the Mothers’ Club to the Director of Communication in the Office of Advancement. This is done every other week or on an as needed basis throughout the school calendar year. The Communications Secretary is responsible for writing all Thank You notes for special events and standing committee chairs, guest speakers and others on an as needed basis.
Section 5. Recording Secretary: It shall be the duty of the Recording Secretary to keep true and accurate minutes of all monthly Mothers’ Club meetings, Board meetings and Executive Board Meetings. The Recording Secretary shall also be responsible for posting and updating Mothers’ Club documents to the Mothers’ Club website as approved by the President. If the school changes its schedule from the modified block schedule and the Mothers’ Club has its own private Mass prior to its meetings, the Recording Secretary will work with Campus Ministry to arrange the Mass and schedule volunteers to serve as Liturgical assistants. The Recording Secretary shall be responsible for creating and modifying the agenda for all general meetings and events with the approval of the President. The Recording Secretary shall assist the President in scheduling meeting space with the school for all general meetings of the Mothers’ Club.
Section 6. Treasurer: The Treasurer shall act as the liaison with the school’s business office to assure proper stewardship of Mothers’ Club funds and approve all income and expenses associated with all Mothers’ Club events. The Treasurer is responsible for working with the President prior to the start of the school year to create a budget for all Mothers’ Club activities. The Treasurer will relay that budget information to the Vice President and to all Special Event Chairpersons. The Treasurer shall keep accurate copies of all receipts and disbursements. The Treasurer, along with the hospitality committee, is responsible for coordinating refreshments for all Mothers’ Club meetings, Board Meetings, and Executive Board Meetings. A Treasurer’s Report shall be received from the Business Office once a month and reported to the Executive Board at the monthly Board meeting.
Section 7. Past President: The immediate Past President shall be a member of the Board and the Facilitator of the Selection Committee. The immediate Past President shall serve as a general consultant and resource person to the Mothers’ Club. The Past President shall act as the liaison with Toms Moms.
Section 8. Auction Chairs: The Auction/Gala Chairs shall coordinate the annual event, usually held the first Saturday evening in November, with their duties including but not limited to the following:
- Choose a theme for the Auction/Gala with proper approval by the school President and Vice -President of Advancement, which will be incorporated into all aspects of the event, including printed, written, and electronic materials and publications, and decorations. Auction/Gala chairs are responsible for ordering coordinating with STH staff written information to promote all printed materials for this event and for submitting all written information promoting the Auction/Gala in school publications.
- Plan and host kick off for Auction/Gala in the spring to generate enthusiasm and participation of the greater St. Thomas community.
- Assemble a committee to help with the Auction/Gala and hold regular meetings throughout the year.
- Work hand in hand with the Advancement Office to inform not only current parents but also alumni and previous donors of the Auction/Gala event and possible underwriting opportunities.
- Attend all Mothers’ Club meetings and events to promote the Auction/Gala and update the Mothers’ Club on status of the event.
- Solicit items, along with Live, Big Board and Silent Auction Chairmen, for auction and raffle. These items may be purchased using donated funds or solicited directly from donors. They may be raffled individually or combined as part of a gift basket. Chairs may also choose to sell grab bags including smaller items, or any other vehicle to raise money to benefit the St. Thomas Community.
- Plan, prepare, decorate, and host the Auction/Gala to benefit the overall St. Thomas Community.
Section 9. Round Up Chairs: The Round Up Chairs shall coordinate with the Vice President of Advancement to plan and execute the annual school festival called Round Up. Round Up is a time for the St. Thomas family to come together and celebrate the culmination of the raffle ticket sales that raise funds for tuition assistance and scholarships. Round Up is usually held on the first Sunday in March. The Chairs’ duties include but are not limited to the following:
- Recruit an executive board and assist in the recruitment of individual booth chairs to plan, organize, and execute Round Up.
- Coordinate logistical needs with the Vice President of Advancement.
- Coordinate with the Student Activities Director to choose a student designed t-shirt for Round Up.
- Provide good financial stewardship of Round Up. Provide expense reducing and revenue increasing strategies while ensuring a fun, community building event. Solicitation of donations for all aspects of Round Up is encouraged so as to increase the funds raised for scholarships. This includes soliciting sponsorships for Round-Up.
- Work with the Vice President of Advancement to publicize Round Up to students, parents, alumni, middle schools, parishes, other St. Thomas donors and media contacts.
- Coordinate all Round Up volunteers by planning and executing at least 3 planning meetings (with meals) and providing written or electronic materials needed to organize Round Up. These materials include checklists, instructions, supply lists, volunteer lists, and wrap up.
- Provide leadership to plan, organize, and execute three main areas at Round Up: Food and Beverage Booths (located in Cemo), Eagle’s Court (shopping and fun activities in the gym), and Carnival Games/Kids’ Games (located outside).
- Attend all Mothers’ Club meetings and events to promote Round Up and update the Mothers’ Club board members and general members on the status of the event.
Section 10. Style Show Chairs: The Style Show Chairs shall coordinate the annual St. Thomas Style Show event each spring with their duties including but not limited to the following:
- Coordinate with the Vice President of Advancement, a fashion show featuring the senior men and their moms and/or guardians. Chairs may choose to work with consultants and/or local retail establishments and vendors to help secure clothing, makeup, and hair styling for the fashion show. This may include several meetings with the model moms to discuss expectations and choose appropriate clothing for the show.
- Choose a theme for the Style Show with proper approval by the school President and Vice President of Advancement, which will be incorporated into all aspects of the event, including printed, written, and electronic materials, publications and decorations. Style Show chairs are responsible for ordering all printed materials for this event and for submitting all written information promoting the Style Show in school publications.
- Plan and host kick off for Style Show to generate enthusiasm and participation of senior students and families.
- Secure a venue for this event which can accommodate up to 500+ persons for a seated lunch, has an area for check-in, a reception, silent auction, and has room for a runway, along with dressing areas for all models. Work closely with the venue representative to select the food and drink menu, and to plan seating layout and other details for the event.
- Assemble a committee to help with the Style Show and hold regular meetings throughout the year.
- Attend all Mothers’ Club meetings and events to promote the Style Show.
- Solicit items, along with Silent Auction Chairmen, for silent auction and raffle. These items may be purchased using donated funds or solicited directly from donors. They may be raffled individually or combined as part of a gift basket. Chairs may also choose to sell grab bags including smaller items, or any other vehicle to raise money to benefit the overall St. Thomas community.
ARTICLE VI
SELECTION COMMITTEE AND RATIFICATION PROCESS
Section 1. The Selection Committee will be made up of five graduating senior mothers plus the current Mothers’ Club President, the immediate Past President, the Club Moderator, the Staff Liaison, the school Principal and school President, for a total of eleven voting members.
Section 2. The current Executive Board, in cooperation with the past Mothers’ Club President, shall appoint the Selection Committee and announce them at the February general meeting.
Section 3. Nomination candidates shall be entertained from the following individuals: any St. Thomas Mothers’ Club member willing to self- nominate. Such candidate shall provide to the Selection Committee a completed application form along with a full resume of accomplishments both in the school and in the greater community. Applications will be considered in the following preferential order: 1) Mothers Candidates of current juniors 2) Mothers Candidates of current sophomores who have an older son who attended St. Thomas 3) All other St. Thomas Mothers’ Club members’ mothers. The strong preference for Executive Board membership is the selection of applicants from the first category with St. Thomas leadership experience committed to the mission of St. Thomas High School with leadership experience and has demonstrated a commitment to the mission of St. Thomas High School. In the event the Selection Committee must consider applicants from the other categories, the decision must be unanimous.
Section 4. The Selection Committee will slate one candidate for each of the five officer positions of the Executive Board.
Section 5. The immediate Past President shall be the facilitator of the Selection Committee.
Section 6. All final selections must be by unanimous vote of the Selection Committee.
Section 7. A member may not serve consecutive terms as President, but may serve two consecutive terms in other officer positions. Any member serving on the Executive Board may not serve on the Selection Committee if the member nominates themself for consideration on the Executive Board for the following year.
Section 8. Ratification of the Slate of Officers of the Executive Board will take place at the April Board meeting and installation of these officers shall take place at the May luncheon.
ARTICLE VII
STANDING COMMITTEES/POSITIONS
Standing committees and positions are as follows and may be updated as needed by the Executive Board. Descriptions are found on the Mothers’ Club website.
Dance Chaperone Chair Booster Club Liaison
Eagle Basket Chair Drama Guild Liaison
Senior Grade Chair Music Guild Liaison
Junior Grade Chair Speech Guild Liaison
Sophomore Grade Chair Dads’ Club Liaison
Freshman Grade Chair Tom’s Moms Liaison
Senior Social Media Chair Admissions Liaison
Junior Social Media Chair House Saints Day Chair
Sophomore Social Media Chair Christmas Decorations Chair
Freshman Social Media Chair
Cookie Chair
Hospitality Chair
Eagle Angels Chair
“Moms in Prayer” Chair
Mentor Moms Chair
Eagles Treats Chair
Properties Chair
Social Events Chair
ARTICLE VIII
MEETINGS
Section 1. The Mothers’ Club shall meet nine times during the school term on dates designated by the President in conjunction with the Executive Board and Club Moderator.
Section 2. The President may call special meetings of the Board as needed. A special meeting may also be called by the majority vote of board members present at any regular meeting.
Section 3. Twelve members, in addition to a majority of the Executive Board, shall constitute a quorum for any general meeting of the Club.
ARTICLE IX
DUES
Dues are part of each student’s registration fee, which is set by the Administration. The St. Thomas Business Office will collect the registration fee, however, the Mothers’ Club will be run as an expense of the school, not as its own separate entity. The Mothers’ Club Treasurer will submit ALL recommendations for deposit or disbursement to the school business office. The Mothers’ Club budget shall be managed to ensure a break-even profit and loss statement at each school year’s end.
ARTICLE X
AMENDMENT
These Bylaws shall be reviewed every January and may be altered, amended, or replaced by a majority vote at any Board meeting of the Mothers’ Club, then presented and approved at the next general membership meeting by a majority vote, provided that such changes were proposed at the previous meeting of the Club.
Revision 3.10.22
Forms
Click the links below to access the downloadable forms:
Tom’s Moms
Welcome to Tom’s Moms! As parents of St. Thomas students, each of us appreciated the camaraderie and support of other mothers as we prayed, worked and socialized together on events in support of St. Thomas High School and our sons. This organization offers an opportunity for mothers of alumni to stay in touch with the activities, spirit and development of the school.
The Tom’s Moms come together four times a year to enjoy social activities. Tom’s Moms will also support the school by volunteering at events such as Back to School Night, Mother Son Mass, Christmas Decorating and Round Up.
FALL OF 2022 EVENTS
STH Campus Christmas Decorating
Deck the halls at STH – If you know how to put ornaments on a tree you can help. Jenny Hanks is the Tom’s Moms Lead.
Friday, November 18, 2022 from 8:30 am – 3 pm – Register so the chairs can reach out to you with details and include you in the headcount for lunch.
Register: Christmas Decorating
Mother Son Mass at STH
Remember all the little elves doing all the work while you enjoyed your morning with your son?
Thursday, December 8th, 2022 7 am – 10:15 am… pick up donuts or just man the table so that all of the donuts don’t walk away at once.
Register: Mother Son Mass
SPRING OF 2023 EVENTS
Spring 2023 Social – Lead OPEN
You pick the date time and location for a fun Tom’s Moms gathering & we will get the word out. Register or let Amber Caver know if you are interested.
Register: 2023 Social
ROUND UP!
Bake goodies or man the Tom’s Moms booth at Round Up. Register below and Tom’s Moms will let you know the details. Sunday, March 6th , 2023 12 noon – 6 PM.
Register: Round Up
We look forward to seeing you!
The Tom’s Moms Reps
Amber Caver, Meryl Gregory, Shawn Savarino, Holly Schlosser, and Mary Yokubaitis
For more information contact Meryl Gregory, STHtomsmoms@gmail.com.
Find us on Facebook @ St. Thomas High School – Tom’s Moms
