SJHS Newsletter 12.7.25

Weekly Highlights:

• December 8 @ 12:30 - 3:00 PM - Balfour on Campus in Library for Graduation (caps, gowns, invites), Class Rings, Jackets, etc.
• December 9 @ 6:30 - 8:00 PM - SJHS Band & Orchestra Concert in the Auditorium
• December 12 @ 9:00 - 11:00 AM - Grow Arizona in Career Center (to help Juniors and Seniors with college and career planning)

Future Events - Save the Dates:

• December 17-18 - Final Exams
• December 17 - Second Semester Schedule Change Request Forms DUE to Mr. Johnson
• December 19 - End of Quarter 2 / Semester 1 / Grades Posted
• December 20 - January 4 - Christmas Break / No School
• Monday, January 5 - Start of Quarter 3 / Semester 2

Dear SJHS Families,

In my office hangs a sign that reminds me what of it means to be part of our school community: “In this school, we care about each other, laugh every day, respect one another, use kind words, say please, thank you, I’m sorry, tell the truth, keep promises, communicate & collaborate, fight to the finish, forgive & forget, serve & share … in this school we are family.”

This week, I want to focus on fighting to the finish.

Last Saturday, I watched our varsity football team show us what fighting to the finish looks like, as they battled for the state championship. Only a few yards—and a couple of tough calls—stood between them and the win. But they never gave up, they never gave in. They fought relentlessly to the finish.

Wednesday night, I watched several of those same boys on the basketball court for the first varsity game of the season against Holbrook. Down by about 10–15 points for much of the game, they clawed back in the final 90-ish seconds to tie it up, then went on to win in overtime 61 to 55! Again, they never gave up, never gave in, and fought with increased intensity to the finish.

These students remind me, time and again, that win or lose, the true measure of character is showing up, having grit, and following through. They are the kind of young people I would want on my team, working beside me, or living next door.

As we come to the end of this semester and head into final exams week, I encourage every student to carry that same spirit into the classroom. Fight to the finish—with your grades, with your attendance, with your commitment to learning. Because in this school, we don’t quit. We rise, we persevere, and we finish strong.

With gratitude,

Mrs. Mo

by Bianca Diaz

We may only have 12 school days left this month, but every single one matters! December is a crucial time for staying focused, keeping up with classwork, and preparing for finals. Being present in class helps you stay on track, reduces stress, and sets you up for a strong finish to the semester.

Let’s make these last days count—show up, stay engaged, and give your best effort. Your success starts with being here!

The new monthly attendance newsletter is out check it out in the link below!

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.

Quarter 2 Reward: Hot Chocolate Bar!

The winning class for Quarter 2 will enjoy a Hot Chocolate Bar as their reward!
We would greatly appreciate any donations to help make this celebration extra special — whether it’s hot chocolate mix, cups, marshmallows, whipped cream, or fun toppings.

Thank you so much for your support and generosity!

with Mr. Johnson

The end of 1st semester is almost here, which means grades will be posted on Friday, December 19, once all teachers have finished grading final exams and finalizing students' grades.

Semester 2 begins right after the winter break. This is a time when some students may require schedule changes.

If the school is making the schedule change for the student (due to a level change, class change, or other school-related need), there is nothing required from the student.

However, if a student or parent is requesting a schedule change for any reason, the "Second Semester Schedule Change Request" form (below) must be completed and submitted to Mr. Johnson, Academic Counselor, by December 17, 2025.

• Monday, December 8 - 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM in Mrs. Johnson's Art Classroom

• Tuesday, December 9 - 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM in the Library

• Wednesday, December 10 - 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM in Mrs. Kelley's Classroom

• Thursday, December 11 - 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM in Mrs. Hitchcock's Culinary Classroom

The Freshmen class won the November PTSO Food Drive! They will be receiving their reward soon--more information to come!

by Tawnya Wood

We are exceedingly proud of our Redskins Football boys and coaches for leaving it all on the field and fighting to the end! They suffered a bitter loss (27-22) to Scottsdale Christian on November 29. Our team put in countless hours and conducted themselves with sportsmanship and pride. Well done, Redskin Football! We love you!

December 8: Girls basketball @ Payson

December 9: Boys and Girls basketball @ Round Valley

December 10: Wrestling @ Ganado

December 11-13: Basketball Round Ball Tournament @ Round Valley

The Class of 2026 is selling See's Candy! Reach out to a senior to purchase some today! Thank you for your support!

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