The Dragon Digest

As we close the book on another school year, I find myself reflecting on just how much we have experienced together over the past ten months. This year has been filled with learning, laughter, challenges, celebrations, growth, and countless moments that reminded me why schools are such special places.

When I think back on this year, I don't just think about events, assemblies, concerts, field trips, or academic accomplishments. I think about people. I think about the students who fill our hallways with energy and curiosity, the families who trust us with what matters most to them, and the staff members who pour their hearts into this work every single day.

To our students: Thank you for making Jarrettown such a joyful place to be. You have amazed us with your creativity, resilience, kindness, and enthusiasm. You have taken risks, learned from mistakes, supported one another, and grown in ways that you may not even realize yet. Whether you are leaving kindergarten, heading to middle school, or somewhere in between, know that each of you has helped make our school a better place simply by being part of it.

To our families: Thank you for your partnership, encouragement, and trust. We are fortunate to have a community that cares so deeply about its children and its school. Thank you for volunteering, attending events, reading bedtime stories, helping with homework, cheering from the sidelines, and supporting your children through every success and challenge. We could not do this work without you, and we are grateful to walk alongside you in your child's educational journey.

To our staff: Thank you for everything you give to our students and to one another. The work of education is demanding, but you approach it with compassion, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to children. Every lesson taught, every encouraging word, every problem solved, every extra hour given, and every relationship built has made a difference. Jarrettown is the exceptional place it is because of the people who show up each day with a shared commitment to helping children succeed.

As I reflect on my first full year as principal of JTES, my overwhelming feeling is one of gratitude. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve this community. I am grateful for the relationships that have been built, the lessons learned, and the many memories created along the way. Most of all, I am grateful to be part of a school community that cares so deeply about its children and one another.

While this year is ending, our story continues. The experiences we shared this year will become part of the foundation for what comes next. I am excited about where we are headed and confident that our best days are still ahead.

For now, though, I hope everyone takes time to slow down and enjoy a well-deserved summer. Read a good book. Stay up a little too late. Spend time with family and friends. Make memories. Recharge.

Thank you for a wonderful year. It has been an honor to be your principal.

Have a safe, happy, and restful summer.

Together,

At the end of every school year, we say goodbye to students as they move on to new adventures. This year, however, we also say goodbye to two extraordinary educators whose impact on Jarrettown Elementary will be felt for generations to come.

After years of dedicated service, Jennell Irvin and Jamie Adler are retiring, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, compassion, and unwavering commitment to children.

For countless young Dragons, Ms. Irvin was one of the very first faces they encountered at JTES. As a kindergarten teacher, she helped transform nervous first-day students into confident learners. With patience, warmth, and an incredible understanding of young children, she created classrooms where students felt safe, valued, and excited to learn. Her influence extends far beyond academics; she helped lay the foundation upon which so many students built their educational journeys.

Ms. Adler's impact has been equally profound. As a fifth-grade teacher, she guided students through an important transition point in their elementary school experience, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities that awaited them in middle school and beyond. Through her high expectations, caring relationships, and dedication to student growth, she helped shape capable, confident young people ready to take their next steps.

Together, these remarkable educators have touched the lives of hundreds of students and families. Their classrooms were places of learning, laughter, encouragement, and belonging. They have celebrated successes, provided comfort during challenges, and consistently put students at the center of their work.

Their contributions extend beyond the students they taught. Jennell and Jamie have been trusted colleagues, mentors, and friends to countless staff members. Their wisdom, professionalism, and commitment to our school community have helped shape the culture of Jarrettown Elementary. Those who have had the privilege of working alongside them know firsthand the dedication, expertise, and heart they brought to our building each and every day.

While retirement marks the end of their careers at JTES, their influence will continue to live on through the students they inspired, the colleagues they supported, and the countless memories they helped create. Their fingerprints are all over this school, and their legacy will remain an important part of who we are for years to come.

On behalf of the entire Jarrettown community, we extend our deepest gratitude to Jennell Irvin and Jamie Adler for their years of service, their commitment to children, and the lasting difference they have made in the lives of so many.

Once a Dragon, always a Dragon.

Congratulations, Jennell and Jamie. We wish you happiness, adventure, and all the best in your well-earned retirement.

The Jarrettown Library is thrilled to announce that our very own Theo Johnson has won the prestigious "Way Past Musical" award for their incredible Book Song about Charlotte's Web!

Over 150 students entered the competition this year, and Theo’s talent truly shone through. Thanks to this fantastic win, Theo has earned a gift card for our school library to purchase brand-new books for all JTES students to enjoy. Theo is a remarkably talented singer-songwriter who clearly pours so much passion into the books they love.

We are so proud of you, Theo—simply terrific, as always!

As we approach the last day of school on Friday, June 12, please note that it will be an early dismissal day. Students will be dismissed at 12:07. Breakfast will be available, but lunch will not be served, as there is no scheduled lunch period on the final day.:

As the school year comes to a close, there are still a few meaningful ways to celebrate the people who made it special. Honor a graduate with a commemorative brick or paver at Upper Dublin High School. Say thank you to a teacher, staff member, or bus driver who made an impact on your child's school year with a Cardinal Kudos. Each honoree will receive a special UDEF certificate in recognition of your gift. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or recognizing someone who made a difference this year, your tribute helps support innovative learning opportunities for Upper Dublin students.

If your child will not be returning to the Upper Dublin School District for the 2026–2027 school year due to a family move, school transfer, or other reason, please contact your child’s building office before the close of the school year to inform them.

Office Contacts