Jaguar Tracks Sept 11

Dear Jaguar Community,

What an exciting week it has been at John Hay! This week, we welcomed our Preschool and Kindergarten students, and it was a joy to see their bright faces, eager smiles, and enthusiasm for learning. The energy and curiosity our youngest learners bring to the school community remind us all of the excitement and possibilities that a new school year holds.

On Tuesday, we had the pleasure of hosting our Coffee with the Principal for Preschool and Kindergarten families. Thank you to everyone who attended. It was wonderful to connect, answer questions, and begin building the strong partnerships that help our students thrive. We are grateful to have such a supportive and engaged school community.

Tuesday also marked our first Welcome Back Assembly of the school year. Bringing students together as a community is one of my favorite traditions, and it was inspiring to see our learners gathered to celebrate the start of the year, reconnect with friends, welcome new classmates, and begin establishing the positive culture that makes John Hay such a special place.

I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our incredible PTSA. The First Day of School photo banner helped create lasting memories for many families, and the coffee service on the playground each morning has fostered a warm and welcoming atmosphere during these first days of school. Your efforts help build the sense of belonging and connection that strengthens our entire community.

While we've had a wonderful start, we have yet to experience a full week together. Next week will be our first full week with all students in the building, and we are looking forward to settling into routines, deepening relationships, and continuing the momentum of a fantastic school year.

As we begin the year together, I encourage you to get involved and stay connected. Please join us for our first PTSA meeting on Monday, September 14, at 6:30 p.m. in the library. It is a great opportunity to learn more about upcoming events, meet other families, and discover ways to support our school community.

Thank you for your partnership, trust, and support. Together, we are creating an exceptional learning environment where every student is welcomed, valued, challenged, and inspired.

In partnership,

Jerid

Dr. Jerid Morisco, Principal

Thank you for your patience as we settle into the new school year. We know some students are experiencing longer transportation times than expected, and we appreciate your understanding as routes, drivers, and routines are finalized. This year, our district is partnering with a different bus provider and families can track bus routes through the Zum Student Transporation app using the phone number on file with the district. Students who ride the bus will receive a Zum bus pass, and we encourage families to attach it to their child's backpack for easy access. Families may also contact Transportation directly at 206-252-0900 or transdept@seattleschools.org with questions or transportation-related issues.

This year, Universal Free Meals have been approved at John Hay thanks to partnership with the City of Seattle. One breakfast and one lunch each school day are provided at no cost. Visit the Culinary Services page to find out more about free meals, a la carte pricing and MySchoolBucks refunds.

Reminder: Every Family Should Complete the CNEEB Form

SPS encourages every family at every school to complete the Child Nutrition Education and Benefits (CNEEB) application. The information helps schools receive important funding and resources and may qualify students for additional educational benefits. Families who do not wish to provide income information can select the new "Decline Benefits" option.

The Ballard Food Bank provides students with a free bag of food to take home for the weekend. We are looking for volunteers to pick up bags and deliver them to John Hay on Thursdays. This is one of our most essential volunteer jobs. Sign up here.

If you'd like to receive a food bag, look for the application in student's red folders or reach out to our Social Worker, Heather Baxter. There are no requirements to participate.

All John Hay families are invited to our first PTSA Membership Meeting of the year on Monday, September 14 from 6:30–7:30 PM, in the John Hay Library or via Zoom. Hear updates, learn what’s ahead this school year, and help shape our PTSA priorities. Everyone is welcome; PTSA membership is required to vote. Spanish translation will be available.

Agenda & Zoom Link

Join us Wednesday, September 23 from 6:00–7:30 PM in the John Hay cafeteria for Family Game Night! Our friends from Blue Highway Games will bring a great selection of games for all ages and abilities. Families are also welcome to bring a favorite game from home.

🔔Drop off in the morning begins at 8:35. At that time, the gates are opened. At 8:50, the first bell rings and students are led into the building by their teacher. At 8:55 instruction begins. School dismisses at 3:25 M, T, Th, F.

🔔Students arriving after 8:55am will be marked tardy.

🔔Every Wednesday is early dismissal at 2:10 PM.

Monday, September 14th 6:30-7:30pm

Monday, September 21st

Wednesday, September 23rd

Wednesday, October 7th

Friday, October 9th

Thursday, October 15th