February 9, 2024

As I am sure you can agree, raising a child and educating them is no easy task. I often refer to a common phrase "It takes a whole village to raise a child." As I reflect on this past week, there are so many examples that exemplify this idea: teachers going above and beyond -- reaching out via email, phones calls and in-person meetings to help meet the needs of our students; multiple parent, grandparent and community volunteers helping in the cafeteria and library; conversations on the front lawn at dismissal time; and, of course, the amazing support from our families and camaraderie witnessed during the spaghetti dinner. We know there are times that we all make mistakes or have missteps, but it is clear to me that the Jefferson Elementary community is so very engaged and committed to helping provide the best educational experience for every child that walks through our doors. Thank you for doing your part to help raise the children of Jefferson Elementary. As always, please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns at 614-478-5560 or by email at schmidts@gjps.org

-Mr. Schmidt

Parent/Teacher Conferences will be February 20 and 22. If you have not signed up for conferences or need help scheduling, please contact your child's teacher or the office, and we will be happy to help . All parents are welcomed and encouraged to schedule a conference time. Our goal is to have 100% participation.

have been in second and third grade classrooms teaching about conflict resolution. Often students spend more time with their classmates than they do with most other people in their lives. Because of this, they can get annoyed, frustrated, etc. with one another similar to siblings. We talk about how normal it is to feel this way and look at various scenarios to learn how we can handle tense moments with friends and classmates. Disagreements are a part of healthy relationships and learning how to calm down, express ourselves and our needs is an important lifelong skill.

Jefferson families, our second and final book fair of the year is fast approaching! It will take place February 20-23. Volunteers are still needed for set up on Feb. 15 from 2:15 - 4:00. There are a few slots left for helping during the sale and clean-up as well. Please sign up today! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SEE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES!

Over the past six days, students have watched a video of special guest mask readers reading them a story. Watch the big moment and hear the excitement from the kids as each reader was revealed.

Roarrrr! Little Lions, are you ready to join our PRIDE? GJPS Preschool enrollment is NOW OPEN for the 2024-25 school year! 👧‍👦 Let's play, learn and have fun together!

Click Here for all the information and to register for our GJPSPreschool!

The state-required testing in grades 3-5 will take place from the end of April through the beginning of May. You will hear these tests referred to as "OST" which stands for Ohio State Tests. We ask that you make every attempt to have yous child at school on these testing dates and avoid doctor appointments or unnecessary absences.

Gahanna Lincoln High School's Special Education Department's annual Spread the Word Day is coming back in March. Their theme this year is: I Belong, You Belong, We ALL Belong. They will be taking the time to celebrate people of ALL abilities during the week of March 25th-29th with a big celebration with Gahanna Schools on Wednesday, March 27th. T-shirts are ON SALE NOW through Feb. 19th at https://www.gahannapawprint.com/stw. Thank you for your support!

Thank you to all the Classroom Leaders who are helping organize the Valentine's Party. Here is a link to some guidelines for the party

February 13: PTO Meeting - 7:00 pm

February 14: Valentine's Day Party - 1:15

February 16: No School - Professional Development Day

February 19: No School - Presidents Day

February 20 & 22: Parent-Teacher Conferences

February 24: Chiller Skate Night

A look ahead to the rest of the year....

Skate Zone 71 - March 13, 5:00-8:30 pm

State Testing - April 2-May 2

Spring Break - April 8-12

School Dance - April 26

Carnival - May 17

Field Day - May 22

Last Day of School - May 24

2023-24 GJPS District Calendar (PDF)

It's not to late to join the fun and register for free for the online auction. More details at GJEF.ORG

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.