Good Afternoon Upper School Parents,

Life at a school is a marathon run and like a sprint sometimes. We recently concluded our class elections; teacher conferences and we're preparing for Homecoming week which is approaching fast. In the last week, I have observed classrooms where students discussed and debated subjects ranging from suicide prevention, to finding joy in the most difficult situations. I observed a chemistry lab, an engaging Spanish lesson, I saw students begin a forensics lab that would eventually use evidence to solve a simulated murder. I spoke with a group of students and discussed academic rigor. The conversation grew to detail JCS's increasing expectations, in order to prepare them to meet the challenges in the future. Within minutes, it switched gears like a 7th grader, and I heard suggestions on Homecoming theme and some passionate advice for the lunch menu. A lot of great things are happening and we're looking forward to October and Homecoming week.

A couple of items to keep in mind:

Come out tonight for the Bahamas relief Volleyball games at 5:00 and 6:30 pm!
JCS College Applications are due by October 15th – please attend the college workshops that are being offered. Check in with Student Services if you have questions.
Picture Make-up Day is scheduled on September 26th.
MiniMester registration is still underway, please sign up by Friday, September 27th.

JCS is committed to helping our students grow, mentally, cognitively and with purpose. I'd like to share Nelson Mandela's advice, "may your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears". I pray that your children can lean on you, on Christ, or on a mentor to make the choices that will further their dreams and hopes. To be that pillar, that tool, that listening ear that can help them achieve their goals is our honor and privilege, all done in Christ's name.

In His Service,