SJHS Newsletter 1.18.26

Weekly Highlights:

• January 19 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day / No School
• January 19 - Park & Potholes National Day of Service
• January 20 - NAVIT Registration Begins - See Mrs. Finch in the Main Office
• January 20 at 6:00 PM - Site Council Meeting in the Library
• January 21 at 10:00 - 3:00 PM - NHS Vitalant Blood Drive in Auditorium Lobby
• January 23 at 9:00 - 11:00 AM - Grow Arizona in Career Center (to help Juniors and Seniors with college and career planning)
• January 24 - Music Regionals Auditions (Band, Choir, Orchestra) in Snowflake

Future Events - Save the Dates:

• January 26 - Balfour on Campus for Seniors
• February 10 - Real Life Reads Book Club (see flier in Clubs Connection)
• February 24 - ASVAB Test (for all Seniors and interested Juniors)

• January 19, 2026 at 8:00 - 12:00 PM
• The SJHS Legacy Leadership Club invites community members of all ages to join us for a day of service. Come lend a hand and stay as long as you're able as we work together to beautify our city park and repair potholes around town. Please meet behind City Hall at 7:45 AM to receive assignments. Be sure to bring work gloves, shovels, rakes, and blow torches if you have them.

• January 21, 2026 at 10:00 - 3:00 PM in the Auditorium Lobby
• Schedule your appointment by scanning the QR code, calling the number, or visiting the website on the flier

Dear SJHS Families,

As we move through January, I’ve been reflecting on how divided and reactive the world can feel right now—especially online. It’s easy for conversations to become sharp, for assumptions to spread quickly, and for hurtful words to travel farther than we ever intended. In moments like these, schools have a unique opportunity to model something better.

One of our district values states: “We believe that great organizations are made up of positive people who avoid gossip, who are slow to take offense, and who are determined to look for the good in others.” I love this reminder. It calls us to pause, to assume the best, and to choose words that build up rather than tear down.

Over the years, as a school administrator at two junior highs and two high schools, I have often talked with students about choosing kindness, especially in digital spaces. One simple tool I have shared with students is the acronym T.H.I.N.K., a reminder to pause before we post, comment, or share (whether online, over text, or in person):

• T — Is it True? Before we repeat or react, we should pause to make sure information is grounded in fact, not assumption or rumor. Just because someone said it, doesn't make it true. Learning to be critical thinkers about all information can help minimize the spread of misinformation.

• H — Is it Helpful? Our words should be beneficial and constructive to the situation or the person. If they are hurtful or harmful in any way, we shouldn't share them.

• I — Is it Inspiring? We always have the choice and chance to uplift others, to encourage positive action, and to contribute to a supportive school climate. If our words are tearing people and places down, then we are causing a climate of hurt and hostility.

• N — Is it Necessary? Not every thought needs to be shared at that moment or publicly. If your words are likely to cause conflict, the most responsible choice is to take a step back and leave things unsaid.

• K — Is it Kind? Kindness is strength and respectful words can be used, even if we disagree. Kindness promotes trust, builds relationships, and creates the environment our students deserve. Like Thumper said in the movie Bambi, "If you can't say somethin' nice, don't say nothin' at all!"

In a world that can feel loud and divided, I’m proud that our students, staff, and families continually work to be examples of respect, empathy, and integrity. Thank you for helping us to create a school community where words are used to build, not break; to clarify, not confuse; and to unite, not divide.

Together, we can show our students—and our community—what it looks like to THINK before we speak and to live the values that make our district strong.

With gratitude,

Mrs. Mo

by Bianca Diaz

Punctuality is more than just arriving on time—it is a habit that shapes academic success, personal growth, and future professional achievement. For students, being punctual plays a vital role in building a strong foundation for lifelong success.

Academic Benefits
Arriving on time maximizes learning opportunities. Students who are punctual do not miss important lesson introductions, key explanations, or announcements that set the tone for the day’s learning. This leads to better understanding, stronger engagement, and improved academic performance. Consistent punctuality also helps establish predictable routines, which reduce stress and anxiety by allowing students to feel prepared, organized, and in control of their day.

Personal Development and Life Skills
Punctuality helps students develop essential life skills such as discipline, responsibility, and time management. By planning ahead and managing their time effectively, students learn how to prioritize tasks—an ability that is valuable far beyond the classroom. Being reliable and meeting commitments builds trust and integrity, while consistent preparedness boosts self-confidence and encourages a positive self-image.

Social and Future Professional Growth
Being on time shows respect for teachers and peers, contributing to a positive and collaborative learning environment. Punctual students often earn greater respect and build a strong reputation as dependable and responsible individuals. These qualities are highly valued in higher education and the workplace, where timeliness reflects professionalism, reliability, and a strong work ethic.

In summary, punctuality is a simple habit with powerful benefits. It enhances learning, reduces stress, builds character, and prepares students for success in school and beyond. By valuing punctuality, students take an important step toward becoming confident, responsible, and successful individuals.

Quarter 3 Incentive: No Tardy Party

To encourage positive attendance habits, the class with the fewest tardies and absences during Quarter 3 will win the No Tardy Party! This incentive promotes accountability, teamwork, and school pride while recognizing students who prioritize attendance and punctuality.

Parents/Guardians/Community Members: If you would like to help or donate rewards to our students for good or improved attendance, please fill out the form below.

with Mr. Johnson

Darrin Reed Memorial Scholarship - DUE January 30, 2026

• Tuesday, January 20 - 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM in the Library

• January Book of the Month: What to Say When You Talk to Your Self
• February 10, 2026 at 7:00 PM
• Meet at The Loft or on Zoom
• See flier for more information or to sign up

• Wednesday, January 21 - 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM in the Library

Spiritline competes at State on Friday, January 16. Good luck girls! We love you! Here are this week's events:

• January 16: Spiritline at State, Phoenix, AZ
• January 16-17: Wrestling @ Doc Wright in Winslow
• January 16: Girls & Boys Basketball @ Pima
• January 17: Girls & Boys Basketball vs. Morenci
• January 20: Wrestling @ Morenci
• January 20: Girls & Boys Basketball vs. Many Farms
• January 21: Wrestling Dual @ Round Valley
• January 22: Girls & Boys Basketball vs. Show Low
• January 23-24: Wrestling @ Queen Creek Duals, JV @ Mesa High
• January 23-24: Spiritline @ TSC Competition, Goodyear
• January 24: Girls & Boys Basketball @ Greyhills

Whew! January's schedule is crazy! Keep up the valiant effort everybody!

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We Are One. We Fear No One. Eyes Up.