Dear JCMES Families,
As we reach the midpoint of our first full week of school, we are delighted to see our students settling in so well, embracing new routines, and forming meaningful connections with their teachers and classmates. This week, our students are beginning to engage in their first units of academic content for the year, and grade levels have also started administering literacy assessments. These assessments provide valuable insights into each student’s literacy strengths and areas for growth, allowing our teachers to tailor instruction to best support every child.
As we move through the coming days, it’s not uncommon for children to feel a bit more tired or experience challenges with morning transitions to school. Starting school or readjusting to the routine can be a lot to process. Rest assured, this is perfectly normal, and we are here to support your child in every way possible. We are also noticing an increase in the usual fall germs, so we kindly encourage families to maintain consistent bedtime routines, emphasize the importance of handwashing, and ensure students stay well-hydrated.
Friday, August 30th:
Each year the school practices several types of safety drills including fire, tornado, earthquake and lockdown. Earlier this week we held our first fire drill. These continue monthly throughout the year. On Friday, August 30th, we will have our first lockdown drill. PK and K students do not participate in this first drill and instead have simple conversations with their teachers about how to stay safe in an emergency by listening carefully to teacher instructions. Students in grades 1-5 will be instructed by their teacher to move to a safe location in the classroom and remain quiet the duration of the drill. The important part of a lockdown drill is not for students to be fearful of what could happen if a lockdown is necessary but instead be prepared to listen carefully to teacher instructions and stay quiet when asked. We are required to have four lockdown drills per year.
Monday, September 2nd:
Next Monday, September 2nd, school will be closed for both students and staff in observance of Labor Day. We hope you have a relaxing long weekend and wish safe travels to those venturing out of town. Enjoy the well-deserved break!
Friday, September 6th:
Our first Walk to School morning will be held on Friday, September 6th from 7:45-8:13am. This is a monthly, weather permitting, event where families are simply invited to walk to school from their homes or the nearby church or school parking lot. It’s a great way to start the day with some fresh air, fun music, and exercise! We sometimes have special guests or other activities happening too. Our first Walk to School of the year does not have a theme but we invite students to wear their new green Jakes shirt if they would like.
Morning Drop-Off Reminders:
We kindly ask that if you are dropping off your child in the morning, students do not enter the vestibule before 7:55 AM. We ask that everyone wait outside the school doors until that time. A staff member will open the door promptly at 7:55 to welcome students inside.
This year our morning tardy bell will ring at 8:13. Arrive by 8:10 to ensure your child is not late.
If you would like to walk your child into school, we ask that you park in the lower parking lot and walk up. The 15 minute parking spaces in front of the school are not for routine drop offs. These spaces are for parents that are bringing in snacks, dropping off a forgotten item, taking medications to the nurse or have other business within the school.
There is considerable traffic in the mornings around the school. Please supervise children very carefully as they cross the parking lot if you are walking in.
Important Future Dates:
September 9th: Start of fall fundraiser (More information coming soon!)
September 10th: PTO meeting @ 6:30 pm
September 11th and 12th: Fall Growth Assessments for grades 3-5
September 19th: Family Welcome Back Picnic @ 6:00 pm
Attachments:
September breakfast and lunch menu: September menu
We hope everyone has a wonderful evening!
Erin Branner, Principal erbranner@rockingham.k12.va.us
Chelsea Imbrescia, Assistant Principal cimbrescia@rockingham.k12.va.