As you know from my weekly messages we are now done with 25% of the academic year.  At the high school level semester grades are the grades that indicate credit earned.  They are also cumulative grades, which make the quarter more of a dipstick or a progress mark.  Unlike middle school students do NOT start over fresh for quarter 2.  They continue to build on the grades that they have as of October 13th.  Please talk with your student about each of their classes and where they believe opportunities for growth or needs for support exist.  Semester grades will be here before we know it, and we want each of our students to end with the best possible academic marks. 

Quarter 2 also comes with a series of disrupted weeks, which means it is critical for you and your student to review the calendar and ensure that you know which days school is not in session.  With Alaska Day, Veteran’s Day, and Thanksgiving Break all these next few weeks we will only have five full, five-day weeks before final exams.  Planning for how to utilize Enrichments and class time when in session will support your student’s achievement in their high school classes.  Communicating with teachers and our attendance office if your student will not be here is another way to keep supports in place as the final grades near. 

I also want to give some kudos and recognition to the following groups for their successes in the first quarter of the school year.  Cross Country, Volleyball, Swim/Dive, Football, and Football Cheer have a number of JDHS participants thriving this season.  Cross Country congratulations includes four top 10 finishers up at state in Palmer last weekend.  We also want to recognize our Student Council for a great fall assembly and spirit week, and the National Honor Society for their support at Super Saturday.  Clubs and activities are a vital part of our school community, and research shows that students connected with at least one community group while in high school is aligned to stronger school performance.  These groups are just some of many opportunities for your student to be involved! 

We believe that JDHS is an amazing school, and certainly hope that you and your student are feeling good about your choice to be a Crimson Bear.  As always, we want your feedback on areas that we can improve and welcome your partnership in your student’s four-year journey.  Give us a call, send us an email or stop on by if you have questions or suggestions.  Thank you for trusting us with your kiddo!