As I look back on the first semester I am finding that there are several things that I am feeling most thankful for. One, we have made it through a full high school semester term without the need to adjust our instructional operations mid-stream, and without a missed day.  Once upon a time that would not have seemed like an accomplishment but for your students, and our JDHS staff, the return to typical schooling feels like it was a long time coming.  The second thing that I am thankful for is that the vast majority of our school community have settled back into the more traditional systems and routines.  Attendance rates, academic marks and earned credits are all appearing to be on the upswing.  Your students, and our future graduates,are demonstrating their commitment to their education and where there are gaps they are seeking support to close them. The western system of education relies heavily on infrastructure and rules.  Our belief is that this is enhanced for each of our students by actively partnering with families and community to ensure that we are meeting students where they are at and that we are working collaboratively to support growth and learning. Together we are growing Juneau’s future. 

After our well-deserved winter break (December 22nd - January 9th) we will hit the ground running to start 2023.  Our second semester begins Tuesday, January 10th, and shortly thereafter we will start our 8th grade information nights and course selection nights for all grades.  Each term is one step on the path toward a JDHS diploma, and each step requires some thought and family engagement in the four year planning process.  While it always seems “too soon” to begin the master scheduling process in January (for the 23-24 school year), it is never too soon to have conversations about an educational plan for your student.  

Our JDHS boys and girls basketball teams are hosting the annual Capital City Classic Tournament this winter if you are looking for ways to support our student athletes.  Each tournament day will showcase our basketball team(s), our pep band, our JDHS basketball cheerleaders and our JDHS dance team.  The tournament runs December 27th - 30th.  You can find specific matchups and game times at this link: http://www.jdcrimsonbears.com/capitalcityclassic/info. In early January there are some regular season home games as well.  Our proud Crimson Bears would love to have you in the stands.