October 26, 2026
SCHOOL NEWS
TIS THE SEASON FOR WEATHER
As temperatures start to change, the potential for bad weather increases too. Jefferson Academy follows Jeffco Public schools decisions on school closures and 2-Hour delays due to inclement weather. If Jeffco closes schools or issues a 2-Hour delay, then JA will follow. We will communicate closures and delays via email and text messages, phone calls, social media and our websites.
EUROTRIP 2028
Juniors and their parents are cordially invited to attend the kickoff to EuroTrip 2028. If your student is currently in 11th grade and is interested in making history come alive, please join Mr. Thimsen on Monday evening October 26 at 6:00 pm in the Commons to learn about trip dates, costs, itineraries, and reaping the benefits of student travel.
JA SECONDARY’S OPEN HOUSE
Do you have family or friends who are interested in having their student attend JA Secondary? Our annual Prospective Family Open House is a great time for families who want to learn about all the amazing opportunities that JA Secondary has to offer students and see our school. We will open our doors and offer student-led tours on Tuesday, November 11th from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. No RSVP is necessary.
SENIOR FAMILIES
The deadline to submit your student’s senior portrait for the yearbook is Friday, October 30. Please click here to upload the portrait. If you have questions, email hsyearbook@jajags.com
CONGRATULATE YOUR SENIOR | CONGRATULATE YOUR 8th GRADER
Early Bird Discount Deadline: Friday, October 30. Get your yearbook senior and 8th grade recognition ads before prices go up!
We know how wonderful your child is, but why not let everyone else know by placing an ad in the yearbook? Submit your senior or 8th grade ad by October 30 to lock in the early bird rate before prices go up! For pricing details and submission instructions, visit: www.TheYearbookCompany.com
YEARBOOKS FOR SALE
It’s scary to think that maybe you have not yet ordered a yearbook.
Make this year’s memories last forever — no tricks, just treats!
Get your student a copy of the yearbook before it’s too late.
Prices are increasing soon - make sure you secure this forever treat before it vanishes like a ghost in the night!
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
CANVAS TIPS
Here are some strategies for both students and parents to successfully use Canvas.
TEACHER OFFICE HOURS
October tends to be a student slump. If you are interested in your student attending extra help time with teachers, please refer to the Teacher Office Hours, also located on the secondary.jajags.com website under Resources.
ATHLETICS
CLIMBING CLUB/TEAM
Climbing practices will begin November 2 at The Spot in Louisville. Please contact coaches with questions if you cannot attend. gbilinski@jajags.com or rmellott@jajags.com
CONCESSION STAND SIGN-UPS WANTED
We are looking for volunteers to run the Outdoor Concession Stand for boys soccer. The shifts will be shorter than normal and we'll make arrangements for "on the job" training. Sign up here: Concession Volunteer Sign Up
JH GIRLS BASKETBALL TRYOUTS
All 7th and 8th grade girls are invited to try out for the JA 3rd quarter basketball team. Mandatory Form
Mandatory Tryout Details:
WHEN: Thursday, November 5th and Friday November 6th; 3:45-5:00pm
WHERE: JA Auxiliary Gym
WITHIN THE GAME - PODCAST:
This school year, we launched Within the Game: Building People Through Athletics, our Jefferson Academy Athletics podcast. Our inaugural episode featured Principal Jeff Pierson discussing leadership, why athletics matters, and game-day safety. This month, we’re joined by Athletic Trainer Jake Diers for Taking Care of the Athlete, exploring injury prevention, recovery, communication, and the importance of taking care of yourself. We invite you to listen to the episodes and join us next month for Building the Culture, focused on what it takes to create a strong team and athletic program.
Thank you for being part of Jaguar Athletics and for continuing to support our student-athletes.
Taking Care of the Athlete: With Jake Diers- Ep. 3
Taking Care of The Athlete -Click on the taking care of the athlete and a link will come up.
Why Athletics Matter: Principal Pierson- Ep. 1
Why Athletics Matter -Click on the Why Athletics Matter and a link will come up.
Game Day Safety: Principal Pierson- Ep. 2