Dear JCMES Families,
Well, this weekly update is going to start a bit differently than planned because this morning was bumpy and we’d like to acknowledge and apologize again for the message that was sent to families indicating their child was absent. We still aren’t quite sure why our student absence notification system sent the message to all but to ensure that it does not happen again we worked today with Central Office as well as the hosting company, Thrillshare, to check, double check and triple check the program. Please accept our deepest apologies. It was only due to your kindness and understanding that we were able to quickly address the situation and get back to learning. Thank you!
In other, much more positive and productive JCMES news please read on for what is coming up soon!
Beginning of the year assessments are occurring in grades 1-5. Some of these are mandated by the state and others by the division. Most are done individually and will provide information to teachers that will help them create small groups and design differentiated lessons. State growth assessments will take place next week in reading and math for grades 3-5. Parents of third, fourth and fifth graders received a letter from the division regarding these tests. PreK and Kindergarten math and reading assessments begin later to give our youngest students a little bit of extra time to adapt to school routines. Those assessments begin the week of September 18th.
Sunday, September 10th - Orders are still open until this Sunday for school spirit wear! https://jcmeswearethejakes2023.... This is not a fundraiser for the school, simply an opportunity to order additional school spirit clothing items if you choose.
Monday, September 11 - On Patriot Day we will be wearing red, white and blue and classes will be talking about heroes in our lives and community. 9/11 is an important day in our country’s history but we will keep the emphasis at school on learning about the great United States and heroes around us.
Wednesday, September 13 - Our school fundraiser ends next Wednesday! Please ensure all money and order forms are turned in by this date.
Friday, September 15 - Spirit Day! Wear green or gold! Next Friday the BHS varsity football team will hold their annual childhood cancer awareness game. Staff may be wearing green or gold to recognize childhood cancer. Parents can choose for their child to wear their green school shirt or gold if they wish.
Important future dates:
Wednesday, September 20 - Fall Picture Day
Thursday, September 21 - 6pm - Family Picnic - Join us at school for a good old fashioned picnic! Bring your own dinner or purchase a hot dog and chips meal from the PTO. Let the kids play and we’ll enjoy some time socializing together!
Friday, September 22 - No School
Take care and have a great rest of the week!
Erin Branner, Principal
erbranner@rockingham.k12.va.us
Chelsea Imbrescia, Assistant Principal