OSSTF work-to-rule beginning November 26

Posted November 25, 2019

Last week, the Ontario Secondary School Teacher’s Federation (OSSTF) announced that it will begin work-to-rule strike action on Tuesday, November 26, 2019. At this time, we do not have any details on what the work-to-rule will look like in the Waterloo Region District School Board. OSSTF announced that its actions will target Ministry of Education […]

Principal’s Message Regarding Administration Change at SJAM

Posted November 22, 2019

It is with regret that I am notifying the SJAM community that I will be departing the school effective January 1, 2020.  I have been appointed as a System Administrator for Student Achievement and Well Being effective on this same date.

While my new role will offer challenges and opportunities that I am excited to embrace, I will deeply miss the Highlander community.  The students, parents, and staff serving this community are truly exceptional. The SJAM community is innovative, supportive and deeply committed to the well-being of our students.

In the accompanying picture I am standing with your new Principal – Ms. Vida Collis!

Vida Collis will be taking over from me as of January 1st.  She is an exemplary school leader. Here is an introductory message she has provided us with:

“The role of the Principal in a school community is to guide, support, and champion success for all of its members, with students being the first and foremost priority.

This is my 18th year with the Waterloo Region District School Board.  After working 10 years in the fields of social services with high-risk youth and for the YMCA, I began my teaching career at Forest Heights Collegiate in the History Department before moving into Student Success.  Previous to being appointed Principal at Southwood Secondary School for September 2016, I served as a Vice-Principal at three sites within WRDSB: SJAM for 3 years; Eastwood for 4 years and 2 years at Southwood. 

I am very grateful to be able to return to the school in which I began my path in Administration to support students, their families and SJAM’s staff.  Student achievement and well-being is our shared goal and it is an honour to lend my experience to the attainment of those objectives. With equity and inclusivity issues close to my heart, I am committed to ensuring that our schools are accepting, welcoming and safe for all.”

Thank you for all the joy you all have provided me with over the last 3 years, I am so very grateful to have had the opportunity to serve as the Principal of this amazing school.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Shortreed
Current Principal, SJAMSS

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Post-Secondary Transitions Info Night – Tues. Dec. 3

Posted November 20, 2019

SJAM’s guidance department, in collaboration with representatives from the University of Waterloo, WLU and Conestoga College, is pleased to host a special information night for students and families.

TUESDAY, DEC. 3 – 7:00PM, SJAM AUDITORIUM

The focus of this evening is to share valuable information to help students more effectively research, plan and prepare for the transition to post-secondary education. It will include general discussions on a number of key topics to assist you with planning for life after high school:

  • Where to find post-secondary info (admissions, how to apply, etc)
  • How to search out financial aid/scholarships
  • What life is REALLY like after high school
  • Opportunity for Q & A with SJAM guidance and post-secondary reps

 

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Updated Student Handbook for 2019-2020

Posted November 14, 2019

SJAM has updated our student handbook, including new information regarding recent changes to the provincial cell phone policy.  You can view the handbook via the link below.  The revised SJAM cell phone/electronic devices policy is also posted here for your review!

CELL PHONES & ELECTRONIC DEVICES:

Cell phones and other personal communication devices must never disrupt the learning environment. When in class, your cell phones should be turned off and out of sight.  Exceptions to this expectation are limited to the following circumstances; for instructional purposes as directed by your teacher, for health and medical purposes (ex: diabetes app), and/or to support special education needs (ex: assistive technology).

Cell phones must never be used to take photos or videos in class or at school without a person’s knowledge and consent. This is a violation of privacy. Inappropriate use of your cell phone may result in it being confiscated by a vice-principal and progress discipline. The use of external speakers in hallways is prohibited.

SJAMSS is not responsible for any lost, stolen or damaged cell phones or electronic devices.  Please keep expensive technology at home.

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Wilfrid Laurier Presentation/Prepare for Post-Secondary – Nov. 22

Posted November 13, 2019

Members of WLU recruitment will visit SJAM on Friday, November 22nd (period E after lunch) in the SJAM library.  The presentation will focus on Laurier programs and helpful information to prepare students for first-year university life.  This is ideal for students considering WLU or any Ontario university as a potential destination in the future.

To attend this special session, please sign up on the GOOGLE FORM!  Deadline to sign up is Tuesday, Nov. 19th.  For more info, please visit the SJAM guidance office.

 

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November 11: All evening rental permits are cancelled

Posted November 11, 2019

Due to the current weather information and anticipated forecast, all evening rental permits have been cancelled. Please check with your event organizer or coach to see if your event, meeting, or game will be rescheduled at a later date.

Welcome Ms. Parsons – New SJAM VP

Posted November 11, 2019

SJAM extends a warm Highlander welcome to the newest member of our admin team – Ms. Carli Parsons – who takes over responsibilities for surnames O-Z.  Ms. Parsons made the leap from Cameron Heights to join our crew and we wish her the best as she settles into her VP role with us!

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