EOC exams will begin this week at Jackson County High School, marking the start of our semester testing season. Final exams are scheduled for December 16 and 17, 2025, with early release for all students on December 17.

Please encourage your students to bring their Chromebooks to school fully charged each day and to be present and well-rested for all exam dates. For the full schedule, testing policies, and additional details, please reference the attached graphic or download the Jaxco Final Exam Schedule at the link below.

Download the JCHS Final Exam Schedule HERE.

Thank you for your support as we finish out the semester strong. We’re proud of our students, and we appreciate you partnering with us throughout exams!

The Jackson County School System will be closed for Winter Break beginning Thursday, Dec. 18 through Thursday, Jan. 1. A staff work day will be held on Friday, Jan. 2, and students will return on Monday, Jan. 5. 

All Algebra students are invited to attend Algebra EOC Boot Camp to help prepare for the Algebra EOC.  See the attached flyer for information.  All questions should be directed to your Algebra teacher.

Congratulations to Naylibeth Perez Bastidas, our November Claws Up for Reading Challenge winner! She picked up a Dunkin’ gift card for his awesome reading progress.

Panthers, keep logging your minutes for a chance to win the December prize—and don’t forget, anyone who hits 1,000 minutes by January 1st earns a free Athens Rock Lobsters game ticket!

Students in our school have logged over 6,000 hours of community service since July 31st this year! Way to go Panthers!!!

JCHS senior Jessica Hughes is completing the CTAE Teaching as a Profession pathway this year under the guidance of Mrs. Kirma Johnson. With a clear passion for education, Jessica is confident that teaching is the career she wants to pursue.

Through the Work-Based Learning program, Jessica is gaining hands-on experience at North Jackson Elementary School in Mrs. Amy Long’s second-grade classroom. Under Mrs. Long’s mentorship, she is learning valuable behavior management skills, instructional planning strategies, and how to successfully lead classroom lessons.

Jessica currently assists students with Phonics instruction in whole-group settings, small groups, and individualized one-on-one sessions, giving her a well-rounded introduction to the responsibilities of a future educator.

To learn more about the Work‑Based Learning Program at Jackson County High School, please reach out to Greg Maxwell at gmaxwell@jcss.us.

International Club Members — mark your calendars for December 9, 3:15–4:00 PM in Upper B for the JCHS International Club meeting. We’ll have a holiday potluck and Secret Santa.

Bookmark the Senior Website HERE. This site will have the latest information about senior celebrations and graduation.

Check the Counselor’s Corner announcements each week in the Panther Press and visit the JCHS Scholarship Database regularly for the most up-to-date scholarships and resources to support your plans after graduation.

You’re invited to join in on all the holiday fun by participating in our December Dress-Up Days right alongside your teachers and staff. Pick a few favorites or jump in for all of them—it’s completely up to you!

Each day has a festive theme, and we can’t wait to see your creativity, school spirit, and holiday cheer all month long. Let’s make December the most joyful, cozy, and colorful month of the year at JCHS!

Friendly reminder: All dress-up outfits must follow the school dress code and be appropriate for the school day. Please also remember that face paint and body paint are not allowed.

December Dress-Up Days

• December 8 – Christmas Carols: Wear something inspired by your favorite holiday song.

• December 9 – Holiday Hair, Don’t Care: Fun, festive, or crazy holiday hair.

• December 10 – Merry Merry Morning: Wear PJs or comfy “Christmas morning” clothes — all pajamas must follow dress code and be school-appropriate.

• December 11 – Holiday Glow-Up: Sparkles, lights, shine—anything that glows.

• December 12 – Channel for Flannel: Wear cozy flannel or plaid.

• December 15 – Buddy the Elf: Dress like Buddy or wear bright elf colors.

• December 16 – Christmas Movie Marathon: Rep your favorite holiday movie or character.

• December 17 – Hawaiian X-mas: Tropical holiday vibes—leis, florals, island Christmas wear.

Students: If you plan to obtain your learner’s permit or driver’s license within the next 30 days, please request your Certificate of School Enrollment and ADAP Certificate by visiting the JCHS website (Families & Students → JCHS Forms → Certificate of Enrollment for Driver’s License) or visit this link.

Once requested, certificates will be ready for pickup in the front office the NEXT DAY after 1:00 PM.

For questions, please email Mrs. Armendariz at larmendariz@jcss.us.

Mark your calendars! The Athens Rock Lobsters are hosting 4 JCSS Foundation nights! A portion of every ticket sold will be donated back to the Foundation to support staff grants and student scholarships! Tickets are on sale now! Visit www.jcssfoundation.org/upcomingevents.