October 20, 2023

As a result of committee work last spring, our elementary report cards will be issued one additional time each year. This change moves us from trimesters to quarters and means families will be receiving a quarter one report card on Friday, October 27.

Along with the reporting period change, each grade level has updated competencies to better communicate student progress over the course of the year. If you have any questions about your student's report card, please reach out to their teacher. You can find all four reporting quarters on our Updated 23-24 School Calendar.

On November 10, at 9:00 am we will celebrating Veterans Day with a special program. We invite any relative or friend of a Jefferson Elementary student who has served, or is currently serving our country, to join us on Friday, November 10th at 9:00am so we can honor them for their service. Veterans are invited to dress in uniform or join us in red, white and blue attire!

Click Here to RSVP for the Program.

Some grade levels are starting to have some trouble with students misusing their smart watches.

Just a reminder....

We want students to be engaged in learning and not distracted by devices. We are starting to see some students misusing their smart watches. Just a reminder from our Student Handbook:

"CELL PHONES & SMART WATCHES

Cell phones are permitted at school, but must remain off and in the student’s book bags throughout the school day. Smart watches are also permitted, but should only be used as a clock while at school. Students are not permitted to send or receive text messages or phone calls on cell phones or smart watches during the day. Additionally, photos may not be taken with cell phones or smart watches at school. On state testing days, smart watches are not permitted to be worn. If a parent/guardian needs to reach their student during the school day, they should call the school office. The school is not responsible for cell phones or smart watches that are lost, stolen, or damaged."

Students will be given one warning about misuse of personal devices. After the first warning, a parent or guardian will need to pick up the device in the front office. If a student needs to reach their parent, they may come to the office and ask to call. In return, if parents need to let their student know something, they need to call the office and a message will be delivered.

Thank you for your help with this and understanding.

Click the picture below to see the current music focus for learning in each grade level.

Technology and social media are a part of our children's lives from such a young age. It can feel unescapable. Here are some kid-friendly options that you may not have heard of:

• The Light Phone II - has the ability to call and text, basic tools like calculator, map, music/podcast player, etc. no social media
• Gabb Phone - receives calls and texts, camera, directions, calculator, radio/music, GPS, etc. but no access to internet or social media apps, "Gabb Guard" blocks high risk content
• Pinwheel Plus Phone - only allows contacts from your "safe list" to receive or make calls or texts, no social media, no web browsing, caregiver's portal to control their experience based on developmental level
• Xplora Xgo3 Watch - approved contact list, school mode to turn off notifications during school hours, no internet access or social media

GRIN provides food to be sent home on Fridays for families in need. If this is something you would be interested in, please fill out this form and send it back to me. You can also email me at haringah@gjps.org.

If you have a social, emotional concern for your child that impacts them while they are at school and would like to share this with me to see how we can help support your child, please fill out this form. Family Counseling Referral Form

October 23 & 24 No School for Students (Conf. Comp Day and Professional Learning Day)

October 27 Fall Party/Costume Parade Friday 1:15pm

October 31 Picture Retake Day

November 10, Veteran's Day program 9:00 am

November 14 Culture Night 6:00 pm

LUNCH MENU LINK

2023-24 GJPS District Calendar (PDF)

The Heart and Pride Award recognizes two outstanding staff members each month who make a profound impact on our students and Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools. Families are encourage to nominate a staff member today! The Heart & Pride Nomination Form will remain available year-round and is open to any member of our staff, regardless of position.