Jefferson Jewels

Hello, November! I'm looking forward to cooler weather, fall colors, and pumpkin-flavored foods. This week, we begin with our Student Free Day on Monday. Our school will be closed to students while teachers and staff participate in professional development. Students will return on Tuesday for a regular schedule for the rest of the week.

Each week, the Jewels will provide updates for families regarding all things related to 8th grade. This week marks the beginning of the 8th grade High School of Choice events, where students can learn about various high schools and pathways. This will include presentations in 8th grade classes, workshops for parents, high school site nights, and lunchtime visits from small thematic high schools at JLA. On Tuesday, CAMS will visit during lunch in the Library.

I hope your child enjoyed the Halloween Festival on Friday. Our Student Council organized an amazing event, featuring the Haunted House, creative and creepy crafts, a costume contest, a photo booth, food trucks, and a special performance of "Thriller" by our Cheer team. It was a lot of fun and a great way to kick off the Halloween weekend. You can check out photos on JLA's Instagram page.

Finally, on Friday, we will host our “Lunch with a Loved One” event, which is our most popular parent and family event at JLA. You are invited to join your child for lunch during their lunchtime in the quad. It’s a fun opportunity to connect, meet new friends, and enjoy an outdoor picnic on the grass with your child. See the flyer below for all the details. I hope to see you on Friday!

In partnership,

Dr. Renée Shipman

Principal, Jefferson Leadership Academy

School of Choice is an LBUSD process that gives 8th grade students and families the opportunity to explore the 11 high schools throughout the district and determine which high school and pathway program aligns with their interests, strengths and future goals. The online application for families opens November 3rd and closes December 11th. So students can have as much information to make an informed decision, please see the flyer for School of Choice Site Nights at the individual high schools.

We know there are times when you need to pick up your child early. You can do this before or after their scheduled lunch period. If your child is at lunch, we are not able to release them quickly from the lunch area. Picking up your child before or after lunch will help you leave JLA without delay.

For school information, please use one of our many forms of communication. Visit and favorite/bookmark the Jefferson Leadership Academy Website https://jefferson.lbschools.net/ and follow our Instagram page @lbjefferson_jags.

Dr. Renée Shipman

Principal

Jefferson Leadership Academy

750 Euclid Avenue, Long Beach, Ca.90804

Email: RShipman@lbschools.net

Pronouns: she/her/hers