SPOTLIGHT

Head's Message

We are excited to welcome our students back to St. John’s Academy on Tuesday! Over the summer our Facilities team refreshed the campus with new paint, updated changerooms, a renewed gym floor featuring our centre court Seawolves logo, and much more. Teachers have also spent the past week preparing classrooms, and we are ready to begin our 7th year at SJA.

This year you’ll hear three key words repeated throughout the school: Explorer, Leader, Pack. These reflect what makes SJA special and connect to our identity as Seawolves.

• Explorers: We want our students to inquire, take risks, and step outside their comfort zones. Learning at SJA is about experience, not just information. Seawolves are curious by nature. 

• Leaders: Leadership is visible in everyday actions, whether it’s helping a classmate, showing effort, or expressing gratitude. We also provide formal opportunities through Student Council, House Leaders, and Peer Support, but we value leadership in all forms. Seawolves are empowered to act. 

• Pack: Our community is our strength. With students from Shawnigan Lake and across the globe, we work to ensure everyone feels a sense of belonging. Even a simple smile or hallway greeting builds connection. Seawolves are stronger together.

The first week will be busy, but I encourage you to pause and reflect on our theme for the year: Gratitude. I am grateful for our dedicated teachers, our engaged students, and the families who place their trust in us. And as I look across the road at the lake, I’m reminded how fortunate we are to learn in such a beautiful place.

Enjoy the long weekend outdoors, and we look forward to starting the year together on Tuesday.

Josh Hart

Head of School

First week Preview

In preparation for Tuesday, here are a few last minute reminders and events upcoming for the first week:

• School starts on Tuesday, September 2nd from 8:30 am - 4:00 pm. Note the new end time on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Mondays and Fridays end at 3:00 pm.

• The uniform during the first week can consist of any SJA items including House shirts. We recognize that not every student has a full uniform yet and that some pieces are still missing. Crocs, sandals, and shoes without heels are not permitted on any uniform day. 

• Cell phone and technology expectations begin on Tuesday. Phones should be handed in to advisors in the morning and collected at the end of the day for students in Grade 4-10 (correction from earlier message that stated only Grade 4-9). 

• We have a few assemblies and presentations for students next week including topics like CCAs, ECO Camp, and House introductions. A parent permission form will go home on Tuesday for the ECO Camp. Keep an eye out. 

• Students will receive their schedule, and get access to their Google Classrooms and ManageBac timetable. Don't forget to bring your laptop. Grade 4/5 students can supply their own tablet or use one of the school devices. 

• The focus for the first week is on establishing connections, routines, and expectations. 

• We are hoping to open up the online store for special order SJA clothing (hoodies, sweatpants, rainjackets, etc.) next week so check back in Friday's newsletter. 

Teacher Wishlist

We are hoping to transform a small space in the academic building into a "Calm" room with comfortable seating, inviting decor, and welcoming ambiance. If any school families have a few gently used items to donate, please reach out to josh.hart@sjasl.ca.
A few items on the list include:

• Bean bag chairs

• Small area rug

• Artificial plants

• Framed art or posters

• Soft lighting

• Other calming elements and decor!

Athletic Tryouts

Please find the Athletics tryouts interest sign-up form for Grades 8-12 here >>>LINK<<<

This year, we will also allow some grade 7s to come to tryouts, and depending on team offerings may or may not have the option to play up. 

For some teams, not all who try out will make the team. For other teams, all students who come out will be eligible to participate.

Term 1 - Volleyball Tryouts Times

• Volleyball Tryouts will start the first week back after school (TBD - bring your gym kit for each day).

• Sept 2 - All Girls and Boys volleyball players for a welcome back fun practice

• Sept 3 - 4-5 pm - First Senior Girls Practice

• Sept 4 - 4-5 pm - First Junior Girls Practice

• Sept 5 - 3-4 pm - First Boys Practice or Second Senior Girls Practice

• Sept 8 - 3-4 pm - Second Junior Girls Practice 

• Sept 9 - 4-5 pm - Second Boys Practice or Senior Girls

• Sept 10 - 4-5 pm - Junior Girls Practice
  
  

Also in Term 1 - Grade 8-12 - X-Country Running, Boys Soccer, and Aquatics Meeting  
Will be determined and posted on Tuesday, Sept 2nd.