Our next early dismissal day, March 2nd, will provide an opportunity for elementary teachers to meet with parents for a conference. Because there is only one afternoon and evening dedicated for conferences, these conferences will be scheduled upon teacher request. All students in preschool and grade 3 will have a notice sent home in next week's "Friday Folder" indicating whether a conference is requested at this time. Due to the nature of students working with multiple teachers in grades 4 and 5, only those students for whom a conference is requested will receive a notice in the "Friday Folders." Please note that "Friday Folders" will actually be sent home next Thursday due to our school closure on the 14th. If a conference is not requested for your child and you have concerns that you would like to discuss, please contact your child's teacher. We are eager to discuss the progress of your child and to continue to work together to ensure that our students have a successful remainder of the school year.

The 6th grade is spreading the love in anticipation of Valentine's Day. Students wrote messages of kindness and posted them throughout the hallways to help brighten each others day. The uplifting messages are simple positive reminders of the many wonderful characteristics our students possess and that we are all here to support each other at JHS.

This week, students in Miss Walker's class have been developing and expanding their classroom Post Office operations! Connected skills included crafting letters, using stamps, delivering mail, and more! To learn more about this activity and other preschool happenings, please visit the Preschool Weekly Update.

Mrs. Crithary's 7th grade science students got a chance to use virtual reality to attend a science expedition! Students used Google Cardboard VR viewers to venture beyond the classroom wall and out into the solar system. Mrs. Crithary guided students through an immersive activity that explored the periodic table as well as the solar system. Students enjoyed the experience!

Fifth grader students continued their unit on space as they learned about the angle of the sun and how it causes shadows. Students applied their knowledge by creating sundials. Unfortunately due to the rainy weather, students were not able to test their creations. We hope they are able to try it at home someday soon!

JHS students enjoyed a variety of after school options this week. Early Dismissal Monday brought Challenge Island to JHS. Students formed their own tribes and worked together to design,create and test labyrinths. Students also created delicious chocolate desserts in our After School Chocolate Creations Class. Upcoming classes include Paint With Me and Young Rembrandt drawing class. Registration options are available from the program website.

Spring Sports Physicals - Spring sports physical paperwork needs to be completed and sent to Mrs. Shiels in the health office by 2/25/2020.

Drop In After School Extra Help - Students in grades 6-8 can now drop in after school to receive extra help. Mr. Nosal will be available on Tuesdays after school for any student in grades 6-8 who needs help in Science. Mrs. Hughen will be available on Wednesdays for extra help in ELA. Mrs. Viggiano will be available on Thursdays for extra help in Social Studies. Students who need the additional time working with staff are encouraged to attend. This is not a homework club, but some time to work with a teacher on concepts or skills that may be challenging.

The Annual PTA Valentine's Dance is being held tonight, February 7th, in the JHS gym from 7-9pm. The event is open to all students who can be accompanied by their parents. Cost is $5 per person or $20 maximum per family. For more information, please views the linked document included with this update.