Administrator's Corner
TJ Family,
We will be starting our 9th grade CMAS testing on March 23rd and need your student here by 7:30am. We have blocked out the 23rd and the 24th of March to complete the 9th grade CMAS test. Please have your student here on time and do not see this as a time to take an extended spring break. TJ has been recognized as a top high school in DPS with the "High School Academic Growth Award," and we want to continue to make TJ one of the top performing schools in DPS.
Note that testing will conclude on these days by 1pm, and students will still be served lunch. Also, AP US Government and AP Environmental Science will be mock testing that day and students in these courses do need to attend.
Familia de TJ,
Comenzaremos nuestro examen de CMAS del grado 9 el 23 de marzo y necesitaremos a su estudiante aquí antes de las 7:30 am. Hemos bloqueado el 23 y el 24 de marzo para completar la prueba CMAS del grado 9. Por favor, tenga a su estudiante aquí a tiempo y no vea esto como un tiempo para tomar unas largas vacaciones de primavera. TJ ha sido reconocido como una escuela secundaria superior en DPS con el "High School Academic Growth Award", y queremos seguir haciendo de TJ una de las mejores escuelas de DPS.
Tenga en cuenta que las pruebas concluirán en estos días a la 1pm, y los estudiantes todavía se les servirá el almuerzo. Además, AP US Government y AP Environmental Science estarán tomando pruebas de practica ese día y los estudiantes en estas clases si necesitan asistir.
Paula Hammel
Assistant Principal
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TJ's Tardy/Truancy Policy
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Thank you for your su
pport in keeping our attendance at its best!
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Week at a Glance - Week of 3/13-3/17
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- Please click here (or see the above "Athletics Schedule" quick link) to see athletic events for the week
Tuesday-
- Firehouse fundraiser for senior class - 11 a.m.-8 p.m. (see below for details)
- Partners PTO meeting - 6:00 p.m.
- Choir concert - 7:00 p.m. Special guests Slavens Middle School! Every choir concert is free.
Wednesday-
- Office Hours/early release
- All class t-shirts (as well as other gear) for sale during 8th period and after school (during Office Hours) in the lobby.
- Song requests for the Senior After Prom being collected today, periods 4,5,6 -Table in lobby.
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Congratulations to TJ, for winning the High School Academic Growth Award! Click here to learn more.
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Please congratulate the following students on this list as they have been selected for our 1
st
Career Launch Summer Internship for 2017!
Business Internships: Arwha Ahmed, Malek Abusnina, Isabelle Ryan, Koryn Artist, and Vasi Reiva,
Technical Internships: Nathaniel Brill, Dallas DeHerrera, Jon Emmanuel Serrano, Cole Bellomo, Clark Patterson, Matthew Bulger, Ossa Sanders-Craig, Camryn Guenther, Erdis Moore, and Cristian DeAnda.
Way to go, Spartans!
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Thomas Jefferson recently competed in the 2017 DECA State Leadership Conference from February 26-28, held annually at the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs. Over 3,000 students, advisors, administrators, and chaperones participated in the 3 day event. Students competed in one of more than 50 different event categories that range from Apparel and Accessories to Virtual Business Challenge and the Stock Market Game. Students begin their competition with a 100 multiple choice online written test before ever arriving at the Broadmoor. Students also perform 2 Role Plays with a judge, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. Between all of the competition, students attend professional workshops that included National DECA Sponsors Men's Wearhouse, Make a Wish Foundation, and the Fashion Institute. Overall students learn and develop professional qualities that will help them succeed in a 21st Century Post-Secondary world.
Thomas Jefferson had 11 competitors compete, with one student making finals.
John Rivera competed in Retail Merchandising, where he narrowly missed qualifying for the ICDC (International Career Development Conference) held in Anaheim, California in April. Overall, it was a great event for all DECA members and the students from DPS represented the district well. Students were already talking about coming back next year! Thank you to CTE for allowing our students the opportunity to expand their professional learning environment and experience "real world" opportunities. Happy 100th birthday CTE, here's to another 100 great years of building young professionals and success!
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- Paula Hammel and Leonard Fox took 30 female students to see the movie Hidden Figures last week to promote women in STEM in collaboration and with the support of DU!
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9News Health Fair - April 2nd
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School Social Worker Samanda Davis, LCSW and School Psychologist Natalie Koncz, Ed.S., NCSP are announcing a new group that centers on students who have been identified as gifted and talented. The subject of the groups will focus on the following topics:
* Learning profiles
* What is giftedness?
* Emotional sensitivities
* Friendships/relationships
* Mood swings
* Resiliency
Interested students should complete the form emailed or sent to Infinite Campus Messenger or stop by room 114 (located off of the main hallway).
TJ GT is taking inspiration from Dead Poets Society, and is calling for poems due to Mr. Weaver's mailbox or hands by April 3.
Theme: Open to any theme, but no vulgar/obscene language.
Length: Between 3 and 6 lines, plus title.
Style: Poems may be in any style, rhyming or unrhymed.
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Important Attendance Reminders
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Parents and Guardians,
As a reminder, the key to your student's academic success is coming to school on time and attending every class. Please note that we will not be accepting excused absences for students who are in school and want to miss one class to study or hang out. This is not acceptable. Also, we will require that all seniors have a 92% attendance rate to attend prom and participate in commencement ceremonies. (Seniors can connect with Mr. Skari for how to fix their attendance.)
If your student is struggling and needing academic support, please remember that we have tutoring after school in the library on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Office hours on Wednesday is from 2:15pm-3pm and every student should be connecting with at least one teacher during that time.
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Attn: All Juniors and Seniors Who Have Attended Challenge Day
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TJHS is hosting a fundraising event on May 2nd and we are in need of two students to speak to a large crowd of 150-200 people regarding their experience or sharing their "If you really knew me". If you are interested, please let Mrs. Davis in the social workers office know as soon as possible. This is a great resume and college application builder. You can email, call, or visit her in person:
Contact information is
Telephone number is 720-423-7072
Office 114C
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The Hispanic/Latino Student Club meets on Wednesdays at lunch in room 218.
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Strengthening Families Program at Hamilton Middle School
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Who:
Students (within or outside of HMS) ages 10-14 and their parent(s) or guardian(s)
Free childcare provided for children under 10
What:
SFP is a family group that provides youth and parents 17 tools to become healthier, happier and stronger families.
When:
SFP will begin Tuesday, April 4th from 430-7p. SFP will occur every Tuesday for 7 weeks, ending May 16th.
Free dinner is provided to families from 430-5p and group is from 5-7p.
Where:
Hamilton Middle School cafeteria
Why:
Parents get to learn to love with limits during this often-challenging transitional time from Elementary to Middle or Middle to High School. Youth get to participate in interactive groups that help them gain empathy for their parents and others, learn how to abstain from drugs and alcohol and grow into healthy young peoples. IN ADDITION, if you choose to participate and attend at least 6/7 groups, your family will receive a $100 gift card.
Contact Lauren Dodge, InSchool Prevention Specialist with interest or for more information. (720) 423-9499, lauren_dodge@dpsk12.org
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The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment has shared with us that there have been several cases of the Mumps virus reported in the state over the past few weeks. In order to minimize the spread of mumps in schools, the agency has asked us to provide information to our families.
We are sharing with you a cover letter in English and in Spanish for families along with a Mumps Alert letter in English and in Spanish from the CDPHE. Please share this valuable information with your school community.
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PTO Fundraiser - April 9th
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April 9, 2017
5:30-7:30 p.m.
$40 per person, $20 goes to school PTO
Fundraising and so much more, join us -
limited space.
Sign up now!
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From the Counselors - Save the Date
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April 15, 2017; 8:00-11:00 a.m.
College 101
Parents/Students: Freshmen, Sophomores, and Juniors;
learn about the college application process, financial aid, Naviance, and more!
More details to follow.
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Leadership is doing a sports/TJ memorabilia project. TJ families, alumni, or community members do you have any TJ gear that you no longer want? Please bring them into the main office labelled Leadership.
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TJ's 2017 Inaugural Online Auction
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TJ we need your help! The Auction Acquisitions Team has been hard at work and we have a lot of great items, but we need more in order to reach our goal for this fundraiser! The online Auction will be held
April 16-20, 2017 and 100% of the proceeds go directly to TJ. Proceeds will benefit our staff and students by helping to pay for valuable programs such as classroom grants and much-needed upgrades for improved working and learning environments. We want this to become TJ's biggest fundraiser on an annual basis and we need your help!
Here's what you can do now:
Print out the TJHS 2017 Auction Letter
and have it with you wherever you go!
The letter
provides information about the Auction and has the TJ Tax ID #, as donations to TJ are tax-deductible.
When you get your oil changed, your hair done or stop into a shop, ask for a
donation...people rarely say no to a donation for a public school! Donations can be dropped off in the office in the AUCTION mailbox.
We need everyone to help gather donations to make the Auction successful!
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Calling all TJ Travelers! If you are interested in hiking scenic Macchu Picchu, rafting through the Sacred Valley while looking at Inca sites, perusing an Indian Market, touring a wildlife sanctuary and so much more... we are headed to PERU in SUMMER 2018!!! Please stop by room 217 or email
Jennifer_Sonheim@dpsk12.org
for details!
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Mental Health and Social/Emotional Tips
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~ Self Care ~
Self-care is an essential survival skill. Self-care refers to activities and practices that we can engage in on a regular basis to reduce stress and maintain and enhance our short- and longer-term health and well-being. Self-care is necessary for your effectiveness and success in honoring your professional and personal commitments. It is SO very important, and we often neglect it or minimize our need for it.
Are all of our "self-care skills" the same? Not necessarily! Some people need time alone to "decompress" or "refuel," while others need quality time with friends, family and/or pets! Some people need a good workout or activity outdoors, while others may need a blanket and a good book, magazine or movie.
We'll go to the doctor when we feel flu-ish or a nagging pain. So why don't we see a health professional when we feel emotional pain: guilt, stress, loss, loneliness? Too many of us deal with common psychological-health issues on our own, says Guy Winch. But we don't have to. Why is it important to practice emotional hygiene - taking care of our emotions, our minds, with the same diligence we take care of our bodies? Because what happens when we ignore it...? Often times stress and pressure can be good things- they keep us motivated, they may challenge us to take healthy risks, learn new skills or work harder. However, when we reach a point where our bodies, mind and soul are exhausted, are we really living the best lives that we can, for ourselves and for those we care about? Maybe not. Often times we hear that "there is not enough time" or the common phrase we love "this too shall pass" (one of my favorites!), but sometimes we to need to take action and help ourselves!
So... can I have some ideas and resources, please?
1)
Guy Winch's Ted Talks:
* After Guy's talk, there are a series of additional videos that may give you some ideas to ponder, things to try, a new perspective!
2) Want some immediate ideas to try for your mind, body and soul?
Check these out!
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Mental Health and Social Emotional Tip:
Compiled by Samanda Davis, LCSW, MSW and Natalie Koncz, Ed.S., NCSP
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Help make TJ beautiful! Xeriscape TJ on Saturday, April 15th.
Are you a landscaper or love to garden and work in the dirt? We need you!
- A couple flatbed trucks to pick up and deliver trees to TJ
- Approximately 20 adults and 20 students to help dig holes, mix dirt, plant and water new trees in designated locations
- Extra dirt, compost or potting soil to mix with existing soil
- DPS work trailer will be provided with supply of shovels, gloves, etc.
Email
springhericks@gmail.com if you have time, tools or trucks that would make this project go smoothly. Thank you!
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Get Your Gear On!
The TJ Spartan Spirit Store is a virtual store which is online. The store is also set up at some school events such as athletic events, concerts, plays and conference nights.
Check out the new American Apparel soft 100% cotton v-neck t-shirts in dark gray or white with gold TJ on the front and Spartan on the back. Also, get a new gray fleece blanket with gold TJ embroidered in the corner to keep you warm while cheering on the Spartans this winter.
New XXL and XL sizes in men's Under Armour ankle zip sweatpants and new inventory in the Under Armour 1/4 zip long sleeve pullovers in graphite gray stripe with embroidered TJ. XXL hoodies and T-shirts now available.
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Center for Family Opportunity Resources
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Great news!
All Class T-Shirts are now available (as wells as other TJ gear) in the
Spartan Store and during 8th period and after school (during Office Hours) on Wednesdays in the lobby. (Pictures of 2018 and 2020 shirts coming soon!)
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After Prom is Back!
Hello TJ families, as we prepare to re-establish this Senior Year event your help is needed. TJ has not had an After Prom in 4 years - it is time to bring it back! We are asking senior parents to get involved to create a memorable night for the Class of 2017. Your time and / or generous donations are appreciated!
After Prom is a free, fun, extension of Prom, held at the school from 11pm -2am (April 22, 2017) Students may leave but no re-entry allowed. Food, casino tables, inflatable obstacle course, lounge, music, and exciting giveaways to be announced all night. Student's names will be drawn, they must be present to win.
Parents participating during the event will hardly be noticed (by teens). The night cannot happen without you.
If you would like to financially support After Prom,
donate here.
Thanks in advance for your support!
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Request your music during periods 4, 5, 6 on Friday, March 17th!
SENIOR T-Shirts - Get Yours Now
We still have some of the original Class of 2017 T-Shirts available. Y
ou can purchase online and pickup at school OR
see Julie Thibodeau in the office
to buy your shirt.
Profits from these shirts support After-Prom Event for 2017.
So please support our Seniors and a safe, fun Prom 2017.
Purchase online here!
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Thanks for helping to make TJ and the Class of 2017 Great!
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Class of 2018 Parents: Mr. TJ is on the horizon. This male talent/variety show is a TJ tradition for Senior Boys and will be held Friday, April 14th. Junior parents run the concession sales during the event. We are in need of parents who want to volunteer to help with concessions and help coordinate the show. This is a fun way to get involved. Volunteer commitments vary; anyone interested should email:
Sara_andolsek@dpsk12.org.
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Fiesta like there's no Mañana!
Let's FUNdraise + create wonderful memories for both the Class of 2018's and the Class of 2020's Senior year activities
(which include Prom, After Prom, Mr. TJ, etc).
Cinco de Mayo party on Saturday, May 6th at 7pm.
Hosted by The Leprys and The Freedbergs at Casa de Freedberg.
$30 per person (collected at the door) which includes appetizers + desserts, margaritas, wine + beer plus a fun evening with a great community.
This fiesta is going to be serious fun, so please bring your friends!
Adults only, please.
All are welcome whether or not you have a student in the TJ Class of 2018 and/or 2020. Please RSVP here by May 1, 2017. If you are unable to attend and would like to make a donation to the Class of 2018's senior year activities, please contact Kary Cramer at karycramer@msn.com. Please contact Lisa Lojacono at lisalojacono@gmail.com to contribute to the Class of 2020's senior year activities.
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Please look for more opportunities this school year for parents to socialize, get connected and contribute to the Class of 2018 fundraising efforts.
Please email
karycramer@msn.com
if you're interested in helping out at any point this year. We need you!
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Class of 2019 - Sophomores
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We are excited to introduce the Class of '19 retro t-shirt for sale (picture above)! T-shirts are $15 each and proceeds will help fund Class of '19 Senior Year activities, including After Prom. Shirts can be purchased directly from Julie Thibodeau, online at the Spartan Store, during Office Hours in the lobby, or at various school events. Parents will be selling the t-shirts in the lobby on February 8th and 15th as well.
THANK YOU for supporting the Class of '19!
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If you have an idea for fundraising, community building event or volunteer opportunity, please contact Jane Bulger:
janeebulger@gmail.com
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Fiesta like there's no Mañana! Let's FUNdraise + create wonderful memories for both the Class of 2018's and the Class of 2020's Senior year activities
(which include Prom, After Prom, Mr. TJ, etc).
Cinco de Mayo party on Saturday, May 6th at 7pm.
Hosted by The Leprys and The Freedbergs at Casa de Freedberg.
$30 per person (collected at the door) which includes appetizers + desserts, margaritas, wine + beer plus a fun evening with a great community. This fiesta is going to be serious fun, so please bring your friends! Adults only, please.
All are welcome whether or not you have a student in the TJ Class of 2018 and/or 2020.
Please RSVP here
by May 1, 2017.
If you are unable to attend and would like to make a donation to the Class of 2018's senior year activities, please contact Kary Cramer at karycramer@msn.com. Please contact Lisa Lojacono at lisalojacono@gmail.com to contribute to the Class of 2020's senior year activities.
- Thank-you to Megan Perkins and Lisa LoJacono who have agreed to be parent representatives for the Class of 2020. Please look for important information to come. If you are interested in getting involved please email Megan at: megandperkins@gmail.com or Lisa at: lisalojacono@gmail.com.
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News from the Future Center
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Seniors and families, we are approaching financial aid deadlines. To receive priority financial aid and institutional scholarships, students must complete FAFSA and institutional scholarship applications before the colleges' deadlines. Even if you think you have too much income to be considered for need-based aid, some colleges may still require the FAFSA to apply for their scholarships. Click
here
to see a list of deadlines for Colorado colleges and universities.
For upcoming events, college visits, financial aid workshops, scholarships, and much more, visit the Future Center
wikipage
!
Rena Maez
College Advisor, Thomas Jefferson High School
Denver Scholarship Foundation | a 501(c)(3) Public Charity
3950 S. Holly Street | Denver, CO 80237
O 720.423.7134 F 720.423.7098
rmaez@denverscholarship.org
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www.denverscholarship.org
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