June 1, 2020

Never again will I secretly wish for a random day off of school.  This past nine weeks has been unprecedented, and so terribly hard for all of us.  Students, staff, families and our community have shown tremendous resilience and strength through our distance learning and hunkering down.  Every one of us made sacrifices to support one another as we lived this historic event.  Your sacrifices are appreciated.  Your commitment is appreciated.  I have never been prouder to be an Alaskan, and a JDHS Crimson Bear.

One of the greatest voids we have is that we were not able to celebrate the Class of 2020 in the way that we are accustomed to.  I have been encouraging us, as a community, to celebrate these remarkable students in small ways as often as we can.  Honk when you see a grad sign, “like” a senior celebration post, and give the virtual high five to our 130 students venturing off into a brave new world.  They have held their heads high through the disruption of their senior season, forgoing prom, safe grad, baccalaureate and their commencement ceremony.  We wish every one of these graduates well as they move into the next phase of their life, and offer our greatest appreciation for showing us how to take on adversity with grace.  

Also moving on are a handful of JDHS staff who were unable to say their in-person goodbyes.  In the counseling office we are wishing Barbara Kelly a fond farewell in her retirement and sending Sanaye Thompson off to Montana to help guide another group of students as only she can do.  We are also wishing Ms. McNamara, our Assistant Principal, safe journey to the state of Vermont where she will be taking on the role of Principal, closer to her extended family.  As we work to fill these positions we will keep all of you in the loop with our newest Crimson Bear members.  And please, if you see any of these departing staff members out and about, wish them a fond farewell.  

We are still unsure of what the new school year will bring.  Please rest assured that we will be certain to communicate often and in various forms so that as we rejoin in August we all know what the expectations are for starting this next school year in a safe and healthy way.  

Until then, ENJOY your summer!