Dear JCMES Families,

We’ve had a great week settling back in after Thanksgiving break! Our students are working hard, demonstrating accountability, and learning new things every day. We’re proud of our Jakes!

As we move into the upcoming weeks, mid-year assessments will begin. These assessments for reading will take place one day per grade level in December. In January, students will participate in VALLSS testing (formerly known as PALS) and SOL growth assessments. For parents of students in grades 3-5, please note that state-mandated growth assessments in reading and math are scheduled for January 22-23. If possible, we kindly ask you to avoid scheduling appointments or other obligations on these dates.

Attached to this newsletter is a new guide from the Community Services Board (CSB). The CSB provides valuable information and resources for families, including this guide on social media. If your child has any internet or social media access, we strongly encourage you to review this guide and familiarize yourself with popular apps and their potential risks.  Many behavioral incidents at school stem from content, characters, and language students are exposed to online or through video games. While digital access is a significant part of today’s world, staying informed is one proactive step we can take together to protect our children. Social Media Parent Guide

Thank you for your continued support!

Upcoming Events:

Thursday, December 5th: 3-5 Book Cart ($0.25 per book)

Friday, December 6th: Walk to School postponed to next week!  The forecast calls for 20 degrees and our RCPS guidelines limit outdoor activities below 32.  

Wednesday, December 11th: 5-7pm - JCMES night at Chick-fil-A 

Friday, December 13th: 7:45-8:10am Walk to School rescheduled to today! We have a group of fabulous staff singers bringing you some holiday song fun!  Join us if you can! 

Tuesday, December 17th: Dominos Spirit Night - use code DN6 when ordering 

Thursday, December 19th: 6:30pm - 3rd Grade Holiday Music Performance

Friday, December 20th: Pajama day to kick off winter break!

Monday, December 22 - Friday, January 3rd - Winter Break - No School

Wishing you all a wonderful week!

Erin Branner, Principal erbranner@rockingham.k12.va.us

Chelsea Imbrescia, Assistant Principal cimbrescia@rockingham.k12.va.us