Jamestown High School is planning changes in the use of technology

Dear Jamestown High School Families,

I am pleased to extend a warm welcome again to all of our students, parents, and guardians as we enter another exciting school year at Jamestown High School. It is an honor to lead this school community full of bright, curious, and passionate students, supported by dedicated and compassionate families and staff. Together, we create an environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential.

The start of a new school year always brings a sense of anticipation and enthusiasm. It is a time of new beginnings, new opportunities, and a renewed commitment to academic excellence, personal growth, and community involvement. Whether you are returning to our school or joining us for the first time, you represent an important part of the Jamestown High School family. Your presence strengthens our community and contributes to the vibrant and diverse tapestry that makes our school special.

When students return in August, they will see new adult faces in the classrooms and hallways of JHS. Karla Rosario returns to JHS and will teach English. Zeb Willer and Morgan Haerer will join the math department while the Special Education Department welcomes Reagan Celaya. There will also be new faces in the music department as Jacob Sherfy will teach choir and Brittany Schwingler will teach band, and Halsey Mahoney joins our JHS guidance team as a counselor . Both Barb Jorgenson and Taylor Winter will be joining our JHS student support team as tutors.

In addition to the new faces, Jamestown High School has made other changes to the plan:

• X has replaced Twitter as a communication tool to share information and highlights on events held in the district. If someone is unable to access the information on the web page, they can contact the Technology Department at (701) 252-1950 or at JPS.Webmaster@k12.nd.us.
• Students may still be tardy three times per semester without penalty, but students will receive a 30-minute detention for the fourth and fifth tardies in the semester, and a one-hour penalty will be deducted for of more than five delays. Students may be withdrawn from class after 10th tardy.
• Although our bell schedule did not change on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, it did change on Wednesday and the new schedule is written on page 18 of the new student plan.
• All schedule changes must be completed by the fifth day of school each semester. If a student drops a class between the 6th and 14th of the semester, a “W” will appear on the transcript indicating the withdrawal, and a “WF” will appear on the 15th or any day after the semester which, means retreat- failure.
• Perhaps the biggest change is in the area of ​​technology. In the classroom, cellphones, ear buds, smart watches or personal tablets must remain in a bag or purse at all times, unless the teacher has authorized the device for the purpose of the lesson. Students can check their messages during transit or in the Commons. If found to be in violation of the policy, the student will surrender the electronic device to staff and serve a one-hour suspension from school. For the first offense, students can return their phones after school, but parents will pick up the device after school for any subsequent offense.
• For clarification, behavior and prohibited items are part of this year’s plan.
• Each freshman, sophomore or junior enrolled in an online course for high school credit or dual credit will report to the designated class each day for the entire class period. Seniors will visit the online instructor of the same room one day a week, and can leave the camp if their work is completed and they have a minimum “C” average for that class.

To our parents and guardians, thank you for your continued trust and cooperation. Your support and involvement are important to the success of our students and our school. We encourage you to stay busy, communicate freely with our staff, and participate in the various activities and events we have planned throughout the year. Together, we can create a strong and supportive network that empowers our students to excel.

As we face the challenges and uncertainties of our ever-changing world, let us remember the importance of kindness, tolerance and community. By working together, we can overcome any obstacles and create a positive and productive school year for all.

Also, welcome back to Jamestown High School. Let’s make this year an unforgettable one, filled with learning, growth, and many successes. I look forward to seeing our students walk the halls again in August.

Darby Heinert

Principal of Jamestown High School