As we move into December, I want to take a moment to share my heartfelt appreciation for our students, families, and staff. This semester has been filled with growth, hard work, and so many moments of pride. Our students continue to impress us with their curiosity and resilience, and I am grateful every day for the partnership we have with our families. Thank you for supporting your child’s learning, encouraging them, and walking alongside us throughout these first months of the school year.
Our teachers and staff have poured tremendous energy into creating engaging classrooms and supporting students in every way possible. Their commitment to doing what’s best for kids shines through daily, and I am truly thankful for their dedication.
We are currently working through our instructional response to ILEARN Checkpoint 1. Teachers have spent time reviewing student progress and providing targeted support in ways that match each student’s needs. As part of this process, some classes and groups may take part in additional review or reassessment opportunities before winter break to help reinforce learning and celebrate growth.
When we return in January, all students will take ILEARN Checkpoint 2, which will help us understand how students are progressing and how we can best guide instruction for the second half of the year.
Please continue to support your child’s learning by encouraging at least 20 minutes of reading each night, including over winter break. Consistent reading truly makes a difference.
We have two festive weeks of dress-up days planned as we close out the semester — always a favorite tradition for our students and staff! The scheduled dress-up days are:
- Dec. 5: First Friday Dress Up Day: Blue Christmas (wear blue, holiday, or Elvis clothing)
- Dec. 8: It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas (wear red and/or green)
- Dec. 9: Santa Claus is Coming to Town (dress like your favorite Christmas character)
- Dec. 10: Jingle Bells (wear festive accessories)
- Dec. 11: Silver and Gold (dress with sparkles and shine or silver and gold
- Dec. 12: Baby, It's Cold Outside (wear cozy warm clothes and accessories)
- Dec. 15: Rocking Around the Christmas Tree (dress like a rockstar or in something inspired by your favorite holiday song)
- Dec. 16: Mele Kalikimaka (dress tropical or with tropical accessories for a Hawaiian holiday)
- Dec. 17: All I Want for Christmas is You (dress like a present or as a gift you want)
- Dec. 18: You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch (dress as Santa or the Grinch)
- Dec. 19: I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas (dress in your holiday pajamas or wear white or snowman-inspired)
As we work hard through these final weeks, I hope each student feels proud of what they have accomplished so far. When break arrives, I hope your family finds rest, joy, and time together. Thank you for being an essential part of the Justice Intermediate community, and for trusting us with your children each day.
Wishing all of our GIANTS families a peaceful holiday season and a refreshing winter break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in January, ready for a new year of learning and growth. Remember, you are always welcome to reach out to your child’s homeroom teacher or our office to schedule a parent-teacher conference at any time. Together, we can help every GIANT continue to grow!
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