Dear JRMS Family,

We are making steady progress in our preparations for the upcoming school year, and the excitement is building. School upgrades and cleaning are nearing completion; we are making great strides in filling our staffing needs, and plans for the return of our staff are coming together.

We held our Fifth Grade Orientation this week, which is another clear sign that school is almost back in session. I want to thank our new fifth graders and their families for participating on Thursday, as well as the many adults who made the event a success: our PTA Board for leading the event and providing refreshments, Ms. Dunn for fielding questions during the first session, and Dr. Panaro, Ms. Fragomeli, and Mr. B. for leading the student activities. This event beautifully demonstrated how our partnership directly impacts the student experience. It was wonderful to see so many smiling students happy to connect with friends and explore their new school. I hope families new to Redding felt a warm welcome and feel reassured about this new beginning.

The orientation also highlighted the leadership potential within our student body. Our eighth-grade volunteers did a wonderful job interacting with the fifth graders, providing welcoming smiles, answering questions, and leading scavenger hunts throughout the building. We hope all eighth graders realize that our younger students look up to them, and that all JRMS students recognize that leadership is not defined by a title—it's demonstrated through everyday actions that help others feel welcomed, included, and supported. Throughout the year, we look forward to creating opportunities for students to share their ideas, develop their leadership skills, and continue building on the strong foundation of our school.

While I do not want to rush these final days of summer break, I recognize that the transition back to school presents a significant shift in daily schedules. Below are a few tips to help make that adjustment smoother:

  - Mark the calendar: Begin adding the first day of school, upcoming school events, and after-school activities, clubs, or responsibilities.

  - Normalize schedules: Consider gradually adjusting eating and sleeping schedules so your child's body can adapt to the new routine.

  - Discuss goals: Ask your child about their hopes, dreams, and goals for the school year ahead.

  - Address concerns: Talk about any anxieties or worries they might have and plan ways to address them together.

  - Reinforce positive routines: Re-establish routines that have been successful for your family in the past, and express your excitement for the growth, learning, and fun ahead.

We are excited to embark on this new year of growth and learning together. Thank you for your continued partnership and support.

Best regards,

Chris