The Panther Paw
Back to School Edition
What's Happening at JCMS?
Online Registration
Online Registration is still open to get your student registered for this school year. It is important for parents/guardians to complete the registration process to ensure we have the most up to date information for your student in our system. Registration should be completed through Skyward Family Access. You can access Skyward Family Access by clicking on the online registration picture to the right.
If you need any assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to our office.
Open House at JCMS
This year's Open House will be on August 5th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Students will be able to place supplies in their locker, find their classrooms, and meet their teachers.
There is a recommendation list of school supplies that should can bring in for the first week of school.
- Kleenex - 2 Boxes - will go to your student's 1st period class
- Hand Sanitizer - 1 Bottle - will go to your student's 1st period class
- Pencils/Pens
- Notebook
- Folder for each class
Individual supply list will be released to students during the first week of school.
Parent Square
Parent Square Attendance Notifications
We will be adding a new component to our Parent Square system. As many of you are aware the state of Indiana has addressed the importance of attendance through legislation this year. As always, we want to work alongside you to help communicate the reasons for absences and tardies. Beginning the week of August 12th, Parent Square will send you a message if your child(ren) is not present at school. If your child is absent and the school has not been notified, you will receive a message. Tentatively, we are looking at sending the message around 11:00.
An example of the message is pictured.
Meet the Administration Team
About the Principal
The middle school years are very unique to students. Students experience new classes, participate in more extracurricular activities, begin to have more independence, and learn more about themselves. Middle school is a time for building strong foundations in both academic and personal development. We have a fantastic team of faculty and staff members in our building that want nothing more than your student to succeed and grow. We are excited to be apart of their journey at JCMS!
If at anytime you have any questions, please, don't hesitate to reach out to our office. We will be happy to assist you!
About the Assistant Principal
I grew up in Jackson County, and attended Crothersville Schools K-12, Go Tigers! After graduating, I attended IU-Bloomington, Go Hoosiers! Upon graduating, I accepted my first teaching job at Salem Middle School in Salem, IN. I spent 11 years at Salem teaching Health and PE. During my time at Salem, I also coached Boys basketball, Jr High golf, and Varsity golf. While teaching at Salem, I went back to school for my Masters degree and Principal's license. In 2019, I was hired to be the Asst. Principal at North Decatur Jr/Sr High School. After 3 years at North Decatur, I decided I needed to get closer to home as my kids were getting more and more involved in after school activities. Sand Creek Elementary had an Assistant Principal opening and I was hired there in the Summer of 2022.
Mr. Thurston
Preparing for the First Day of School
A couple of first day tips...
As you explore JCMS, remember that our school is more than just a building; it's a community. We are a community that values respect, kindness, and curiosity. Each student brings something unique to our school, and together, we create a place where everyone can learn and thrive.
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Embrace New Opportunities: We have several activities, clubs, and sports at JCMS. Don't be afraid to try something new and step out of your comfort zone.
- Build Positive Relationships: The friendships and connections you make here will be a big part of your middle school experience. Be kind, be inclusive, and support those around you.
- Stay Curious and Engaged: Your teachers and staff are here to help you learn and grow. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, seek help when you need it, and challenge yourself academically.
- Take Responsibility: This is a time for you to develop independence and responsibility. Be organized, manage your time well, and take pride in your work. Your effort and dedication will pay off in the long run.
Schedules
All students will receive a new copy of their schedule when arriving to school on the first day. This allows students to not only have a new copy but to also see any scheduling changes that might have been made. Students will be provided further direction on the first student day.
If a student has any scheduling changes for their elective, they should send an email to Mrs. Cardinal at mcardinal@jcsc.org.
Backpacks
Students will be required to leave their backpacks in their lockers during the school day. This is not only done for safety reasons but also to help teach students organizational and time management skills. Students are allowed to carry their JCSC provided Chromebook case with their Chromebook and charger to each class.
Breakfast and Lunch Money
Students bringing in money for breakfast or lunch should turn it into Mrs. Ross-Malcolm in the Main Office.