August 21, 2016
JES Family and Friends:
Welcome to the 2016-2017 school year. The past few weeks have been super busy as we've enrolled new students, welcomed new teachers and staff, and revised schedules for new and exciting programs. This year, students will enjoy more hands on learning with AMSTI math and science. We're also revamping the AR (Accelerated Reading) program to provide more student recognition. AR will be led by our new media specialist, Kristen Green. We are also glad to welcome our new art teacher, Ms. Tara Dempsey. Mrs. Dempsey has already introduced several new projects to students. JES is also proud to welcome the gifted education program to our campus. Mrs. Carla Franklin will provide gifted ed. instruction each Friday starting August 26.
On August 29, we begin our Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions for students struggling in reading. Sandra Simmons and Nita Stephens are back as part-time Title 1 teachers. We are also proud to add Amy Goff as an additional reading teacher. Mrs. Goff will also provide multi-sensory interventions for several students. Other upcoming events include: PTO Candy Bar sales begin Tuesday, August 23, Playing for Preemies pep rally Friday, August 26 @ Ardmore, No school on Labor Day, Sept. 5, and the first 1/2 day is Wednesday, September 7.
August is always a fun time for our students, but recently the JES family experienced two tragedies involving former students. On August 1, 5th grader Zach Watkins lost his mom in a horrific accident less than a mile from campus. The wreck also injured his brother and Ardmore student, Xavier Watkins. Fortunately, Xavier has quickly recovered and is back at school. Last week, we also lost former student Kaley Greer in a truck accident. Kaley was a junior at Ardmore High School, was a member of the Lady Tigers volleyball and basketball teams, and an active member of the Sardis Springs Baptist Church. Kaley and her family are well known and respected in the Johnson community. She was an amazing young lady who will be greatly missed. Please remember these families in your prayers and continue to pray for the safety of our children and school. At JES, we are committed to making 2016-2017 the best year ever. Thank you for helping us "make it happen!"
Sincerely,
Brad Lewis, Principal
