Family Cheetah Tracks
January 12, 2026
January 12, 2026
Happy New Year JES Families,
As we welcome 2026, we celebrate the many ways our JES community closed out 2025 with light and joy. From families strolling our lantern-lit nature path glowing with student-created light installations, to a fun school spirit week, outdoor play, and meaningful learning in and beyond the classroom, the end of the year was full of connection and celebration.
Returning from break last week, educators did a beautiful job intentionally making time each day for students to reconnect with one another, revisit routines, and recommit to classroom expectations. The transition back from break was incredibly smooth and noticed by many across the building.
With the end of one semester and the start of a new year, we are deep in reflection, goal setting, assessments, and exciting new learning. Our cheetahs are ready to charge fiercely into 2026! Teachers are currently wrapping up Semester 1 report cards and preparing to send them home at the end of next week. At the elementary level, report cards are designed to celebrate strengths, share evidence of progress toward grade-level standards, and outline clear next steps for continued growth.
As a school community, we have also begun diving into this year’s Red Clover Book Award nominees. The Red Clover Book Award is presented annually to the book selected by children in kindergarten through fourth grade. Each year, thousands of Vermont students read the ten nominated picture books and cast their votes in the spring. The award has been presented since 1997, and we are excited to once again join in the fun of reading, discussing, and voting together.
Beginning next week, all JES students will once again participate in Snow Motion, our longstanding partnership with Cochran’s Ski Area. Through this program:
Every student has the opportunity to learn to ski or snowboard during the school day
All lessons and equipment are provided free of charge, ensuring equitable access
Students build confidence and a lasting connection to Vermont’s outdoor recreation culture
This partnership remains a highlight of winter and a cornerstone of our outdoor education model. I can’t wait to be a part of it!
Thank you, as always, for your partnership and support. As we move into the heart of winter and the second half of the school year, we look forward to continued growth, joyful learning, and shared experiences that continue to strengthen our cheetah community.
Warmly,
Katie Barea
JES Principal
IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER
January 14th - Early Release
January 19th - No School MLK Day
Week of January 20th - Snow Motion Begins
January 23rd - Semester 1 Report Cards Sent Home
School Happenings
Penguin Plunge - Mrs. Barea Needs Your Help!
The five Elementary School Principals of MMUUSD are taking the Cool Schools plunge to support Special Olympics Vermont and its mission to foster inclusion and acceptance of individuals with intellectual disabilities! Mrs. Barea is braving the icy waters to make a difference—please consider supporting our efforts and help us reach our fundraising goal by donating HERE. Your donation will help provide year-round sports training and competition for athletes and build a more inclusive community. Together, we can make a big splash for a great cause!
NEWS FROM JES PIE
Partners in Education is an organization whose purpose is to enhance and strengthen the educational and social environment for the Jericho Elementary School students.
No Fundraiser Fundraiser
PIE used to host multiple fundraisers throughout the year in order to fund our efforts for the school. Last year, we switched it up and just asked for donations instead and it worked! We’re doing the same this year and we need your help! Our goal is $8,500 which comes to around $30 per student.
ONLINE SCHOOL STORE
Welcome to the JES Cheetahs Online Store, the place to score cheetah SWAG.
Get some JES swag for your whole family!
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
Email: jesoffice@mmuusd.org
Location: 90 VT Route 15, Jericho, VT 05465
Phone: 802.899.2272