BCJ SOAR Spotlight

Hello BCJ Parents and Caregivers,

This week at BCJ, we’re celebrating two important themes that help our students grow — National Health Education Week and National Friends of Libraries Week!

Health education reminds us that learning goes beyond the classroom — it’s also about building healthy habits, staying active, and caring for our minds and bodies. Friends of Libraries Week highlights the power of reading and the many adventures that begin with a good book.

We encourage families to join in the celebration by taking a few minutes each day to read together 📚 or talk about ways to stay healthy and active 💪🏽. Together, we’re helping our students develop skills that last a lifetime!her, we continue building a community where students grow strong, curious, and confident. 🖤💛📚

With gratitude,
Your BCJ Admin Team

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and our staff is proudly wearing pink on Thursdays to show support and raise awareness. Several students have asked to join in and we think that’s wonderful!

Students are encouraged (but not required!) to wear pink on Thursdays - shirt, socks, hat, or any pink accessory to show solidarity with our staff and the cause. Let’s come together as a BCJ family to honor those affected by breast cancer and show our school spirit!

The remaining Pink Thursdays are: October 23, and 30. Let’s make each one count!

Barbara C. Jordan Elementary is excited to partner with the University City Adult Education & Literacy Program to provide free English classes for parents and caregivers right in our neighborhood!

✨ Improve your English for school, work, and everyday life.
✨ Learn how to better support your child’s education.
✨ Gain confidence in communicating with teachers and staff.

🕓 Classes are scheduled in the evenings to fit your schedule.
📍 Open to all parents and caregivers in our community.

👉🏾Interested? Please complete the quick survey using the QR code below (available in English and Spanish on the flyers).

We look forward to seeing many of our BCJ families take advantage of this wonderful opportunity!

We are excited to announce that Red Ribbon Week will be observed at BCJ from Thursday, October 23 through Friday, October 31! This year's theme is “Life is a Puzzle - Solve It Drug Free!” 🧩

Origin of Red Ribbon Week
Red Ribbon Week began in 1985 to honor DEA Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, who was tragically killed while investigating drug cartels. His dedication to fighting drugs inspired the creation of this nationwide observance, teaching students, parents, and communities about the importance of living drug-free.

🎉 Spirit Week Schedule (October 27 - 31)

• “Piece Together a Drug-Free Life” - Wear Red Day

• “Fit the Pieces Together: Team Up for a Drug-Free Life” - Sports/Athletic Wear 🏀

• “Put the Pieces Together Your Own Way!” - Wacky Wednesday/Mismatch Day 🤪

• “Dream Big: Drugs Don’t Fit in the Puzzle” - Pajama Day 🛌 (Students and staff may also wear pink for Breast Cancer Awareness!)

• “Top Off a Drug-Free Week!” - Hat Day 🎩

  
  

We encourage all students and staff to participate each day as we come together to promote health, safety, and awareness. Thank you for supporting BCJ in making Red Ribbon Week a meaningful and fun experience for our students!

Parents of Pre-K through 5th graders in U. City Schools:

📋 Register your child for the 2025-26 elementary basketball season!

✨ Details:

• 🏀 One practice per week

• 📆 8–10 games, Jan–Feb

• 🚫 No transportation provided

• 💵 Cost: $80 (payment after teams are created)
  
• ⏰ Forms close at 5:00 PM on Sunday, Nov. 9th

• 📝 Complete a form for each student participating.

• 🔗Elementary Basketball Registration Link
  

• 🔗Volunteer Coach Form

👥 Interested in coaching? Fill out the volunteer coach form too!

Thank you!

Justin Wilhite
K-8 Athletic Director / K-12 Activities Director
📧 jwilhite@ucityschools.org

Here are the key dates to keep in mind for a successful month ahead!