October 29, 2018
Administrator's Corner

Hello TJ,
 
I hope everyone had a great weekend, I'm sure you were all busy putting your final touches on 
your Halloween costumes! In regards to Halloween costumes, yes, students are allowed to dress up if they wish, however the basic rules of the dress code still apply and we could use your support in enforcing these expectations with your students. I have made announcements on the Spartan Edition around appropriate costumes and encourage you or your student to reach out to an administrator if you have any questions. Typically our students have done a great job of having tasteful, fun, and appropriate costumes and we want to make sure that everyone knows the expectations so that we can continue this tradition. Our TJ Student Leadership group has organized a week of fun activities for the kids, so let's make it safe and fun! Here are the expectations around costumes and what is not going to be allowed:   
 
1.  Shorts, dresses, skirts or other similar clothing shorter than mid-thigh length
2.  Sunglasses and/or hats/masks worn inside the building
3.  Inappropriately sheer, tight or low-cut clothing that bare or expose traditionally private parts of the body (e.g., midriffs, halter tops, backless clothing, tube tops, garments made of fishnet, mesh or similar material, muscle tops, etc.)
4.  Tank tops or other similar clothing with narrow straps
5.  Any clothing, paraphernalia, grooming, jewelry, hair coloring, accessories, or body adornments that are or contain any advertisement, symbols, words, slogans, patches, or pictures that:
  •   Refer to drugs, tobacco, alcohol, or weapons
  •   Are of a sexual nature
  •   By virtue of color, arrangement, trademark, or other attribute denote membership in gangs which are associated with drug use, violence, or disruptive behavior
  •   Are obscene, profane, vulgar, lewd, or legally libelous
  •   Threaten the safety or welfare of any person (facsimile weapons are included in this)
  •   Promote any activity prohibited by the student code of conduct
  •   Otherwise disrupt the teaching-learning process
Thanks again for your support on this - we look forward to having another great week!

Go Spartans!

Quick Links
See Spirit Store Info Below!
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Week at a Glance - Week of 10/29-11/2
Monday
  • Please click here (or see the above "Athletics Schedule" quick link) to see athletic events for the week
  • Boo Fire: 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday- 
  • Colorado Free Application Day! (details below)
  • Scary Movie Night/Haunted Hallway: 6:00 p.m. 
Wednesday-
  • Office Hours: 2:14-2:55 p.m.
  • Trick-or-Treat Street: 4:00 p.m.
Thursday -
  • Dodgeball - Zombies vs. Vampires: lunchtime
Friday -
  • LAST DAY to order a yearbook for $50! (Price goes up tomorrow)
Saturday-
  • Saturday school: 8:00 a.m.
Kudos Korner
  • Kudos to the English and Math departments for all of their work on the PSAT/SAT prep and practice tests!
(L to R) Paula Hammel, Danny Showers, Julia Moir, Robin Johnson
  • Drum line member 
    Julia Moir was awarded two tickets by  Danny Showers to the Air Force game so that she could listen to the Air Force Band. Thanks, Mr. Showers! Congrats, Julia!
Yearbook News
Yearbook Announcements:
  • Please check to see if we received your senior quote and photo. There's a poster hanging on the office windows, or you can check the yearbook website to make sure.
  • PriceGet your book at the discounted price of $50 until 11-2-18. The price will eventually increase to $65, so act fast!
  • Baby AdIf you would like to purchase a senior/baby ad, they are due by 11-16-18.  
All information about the yearbook can found on the journal under the News & Events tab or by clicking here.
AP Exam and Waiver Form
Parents, p lease note that we will begin ordering AP exams soon. Your student should have received a free and reduced fee waiver form that will allow us to verify free and reduced status. We need these turned in by Friday, November 2, so that we can order exams. Exams will be ordered based upon AP rosters. If your student is enrolled in an AP class, they will be getting an exam ordered for the test in May.
Upcoming Community Meetings
TJ Fall Open House - Save the Date!
Let your friends and neighbors with students in the 8th grade know about TJ's fall open house in November.  
  • November 8, 2018 - 6 - 8 p.m. 
    All School Open House
     - hear about all of TJ's academic programs and talk to faculty from each department. 
Spamalot
Hear ye, hear ye! As the following month rapidly approaches, TJ Theatre students are working long, diligent hours to perfect this year's musical comedy,  Spamalot , inspired by the 1975 film,  Monty Python and the Holy Grail . This farcical take on the medieval tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round table incorporates modern elements and humor along their quest for the Holy Grail. The show will debut on November 8th, 9th, and 10th at 7:00 p.m.. Digital tickets can be purchased online via MySchoolBucks and are currently priced at $5 for students and $10 for non-students. Paper tickets will also be sold in the next few weeks. Due to the mature comedic themes prevalent in this show, children under the age of 10 will not be admitted. From its humorous audience participation to its incredible set-design, this musical truly incorporates all elements to maximize the overall experience as an audience member. 
Interested in Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student?
Hello TJ Families,
 
Would you be willing to host a foreign exchange student? We are in need of a placement for a wonderful student starting as soon as possible. It would be wonderful if we could find a family that has previous experience, but that is not a requirement. Please contact  [email protected] for details.
PTO News
Want the 411 on fundraising at TJ? If you were wondering how it works, the PTO has three main sources for funding. While the bulk of the monies raised go toward classroom grants, PTO funds also go to support the TJ community in several ways such as teacher appreciation events and the Newcomer Cookout in August.  The PTO also works with the student leadership team to support student sponsored events such as Homecoming and the Backyard BBQ. The PTO supports each class with PTO liaisons that coordinate raising money used for class specific activities such as Mr. TJ and Prom. In the last few years, the PTO has moved to simplify fundraising by focusing on these three efforts...
  1. ArtFest:  This 30-year tradition for the wider community brings over 80 local artisans and small businesses together. Purchases of unique holiday gifts benefit teachers and students alike. ArtFest is a major fundraiser for the TJ community, providing funds for classroom grants. In the 2017-18 school year, the PTO awarded over $7,000 in classroom grants. This year's ArtFest will be held on December 8, 2018.
  2. Online Auction: Last year's online auction raised over $15,000! This is an easy way to include lots of people in supporting TJ while also coming away with some great buys. The PTO needs help with collecting donations and promoting this event. If you would like to help, contact Auction Chair, Megan Perkins at [email protected]. This year's auction will be held on March 10-14, 2019.
  3. King Soopers Cards: This is an incredible source of FREE money. Shop as you normally would using a reloadable gift card and a percentage of all your purchases go directly to TJ each month. A portion of these funds are granted to the senior class to help pay for senior year activities such as after prom festivities. Cards cost $5 and come preloaded with $5. We encourage all families to use King Soopers cards! Come to the next PTO meeting on Tuesday, November 13th to pick up your card or send an email request to [email protected].
The PTO can't do any of this without the wonderful parents getting involved so thank you for your support! Together we are Spartan Strong!
Countdown to ArtFest 2018
The PTO is hard at work putting together this year's 30 th Anniversary ArtFest. This long-standing tradition will be here before we know it! On December 8, 2018, over 80 vendors will come together as a celebration of local artists and makers.  TJHS's annual ArtFest has gained recognition in recent years for the range of talented, high-caliber artists and artisans from around the Denver Metro area.
 
For three decades, ArtFest has featured some of Denver's greatest creative talents including fine artists, photographers, sculptors and jewelry makers as well as local artisans selling everything from decadent holiday treats and small-batch organic eats to homemade soaps and scents. The event takes place in TJ's beautifully transformed gym, with a used book sale, and the KidZone adjacent to the gym where kids can be creative and have fun while their parents enjoy the leisure of holiday shopping without the mall madness. Attending ArtFest is a great way to kick off your holiday season.
 
There are still some openings for local artisans to participate. Do you know someone who creates beautiful items? We want them to join us! Booth fees are $110 for a single and $185 for a double. Pass on the information and ask them to submit their vendor application using the form found on the ArtFest website here.  
 
TJ is also looking for local authors to participate in a special Book Corner of ArtFest. If you know someone who is interested, please put them in touch with Lisa Brown Roberts at [email protected].
 
Check back here each week to see the latest information about ArtFest!
Counseling News
Seniors! Tuesday October 30th is Colorado Free Application Day!
 
What is it?
All 32 public schools will be waiving application fees on October 30th. To see a list of all of the Colorado schools participating, please click here .

Start your applications now to apply to public in-state schools but do not submit them until October 30th!  CU, CSU, UNC, Metropolitan State and many more will be participating. All of your application materials should be prepared, double-checked and reviewed prior to October 30th so all you have to do on October 30th is press submit.
 
See Frequently Asked Questions about the Colorado Free App Day here.
 
What will TJ be doing on this day?
Counselors will be in room 111 with computers from 7:30-1:30 to assist seniors with submissions. Students can see their counselors with questions or for more details!
FREE Parent Presentations
Transitioning into Life After High School
This is the season when high school seniors and their parents are entrenched in the process of completing college applications. And while this process is undeniably an important gateway to the next phase of life for our young people, it is also important for parents and students alike to realize that this decision is more about taking a step towards an independent life. Whether your student ends up at a 4 year college, community college, takes a gap year, or gets a job, there are a number of life skills that are important to reinforce as they move towards successful independent living.

GSA T-shirts for sale
Email  [email protected]  to order
News from the Future Center
12th graders are invited to join DSF for a field trip to University of Northern Colorado on Thursday, November 1st. Please come to the Future Center to pick up the two sided permission slip. Permission slips need to be submitted by Friday, October 26th. Students can email [email protected]  to reserve their seat.
 
12th graders - please sign up for College Admissions Representatives visits in Naviance!

Thank you!

Sophie Vogel
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
   
Community Service Opportunity
The UHills Neighborhood Association is a non-profit that represents the UHills Residents (our boundaries are I-25 to CO Blvd., and Hampden north to Yale). Here is our webpage UHNA.com They are in need of 1-2 students to help update and post upcoming events, Board Meeting Minutes, photos from events, etc. to their website once or twice a month. If you are interested, please see Ms. Adair or Mr. Fornstrom.
Part-Time Custodian Wanted
Facilities Management Jobs Available
Spartan Spirit Store
The TJ Spirit Store is stocked and ready to sell!  Show your TJ pride in style and comfort with hoodies, t-shirts, hats, blankets and stadium chairs. The TJHS Spirit Store is open every Friday at lunch time. During the month of October we will be having a huge SALE!!!!  All 2019 retro-Joe Spartan t-shirts are $5, all other short-sleeved t-shirts are $10, long-sleeved shirts are $20, and hoodies are $25.  We also now have beanies with pom poms for $20 and beanies without for $15.  We accept cash, credit cards and checks.

The store will be open during events like certain athletic games and other community events such as the ArtFest. Or, make an appointment to shop with Carrie ( [email protected] ). The store accepts cash, credit cards and checks. You can view several items  here , but we are not currently accepting online orders .

Please contact Julie Thibodeau in the front office if you need help with the store at times other than Friday at lunch.

If you have any questions please email them to  [email protected].
GO SPARTANS!!!
Mental Health and Social/Emotional Tips
Did You Know?
October is National Bully Prevention Month
 
There are many warning signs that may indicate that someone is affected by bullying-either being bullied or bullying others. Recognizing the warning signs is an important first step in taking action against bullying. Not all children who are bullied or are bullying others ask for help. It is important to talk with children who show signs of being bullied or bullying others. These warning signs can also point to other issues or problems, such as depression or substance abuse. Talking to the child can help identify the root of the problem. Empower your child to tell a trusted adult if they are worried about themselves or someone else!
 
Look for changes in the child. However, be aware that not all children who are bullied exhibit warning signs. And don't forget that a lot of bullying takes place on social media- keep an eye on your kids' social media accounts!
 
Some signs that may point to a child being bullied: 
  • Unexplainable injuries
  • Lost or destroyed clothing, books, electronics, or jewelry
  • Frequent headaches or stomach aches, feeling sick or faking illness
  • Changes in eating habits, like suddenly skipping meals or binge eating. Kids may come home from school hungry because they did not eat lunch.
  • Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares
  • Declining grades, loss of interest in schoolwork, or not wanting to go to school
  • Sudden loss of friends or avoidance of social situations
  • Feelings of helplessness or decreased self esteem
  • Self-destructive behaviors such as running away from home, harming themselves, or talking about suicide
Some signs a child is bullying others:   
  • Get into physical or verbal fights
  • Have friends who bully others
  • Are increasingly aggressive
  • Get sent to the principal's office or to detention frequently
  • Have unexplained extra money or new belongings
  • Blame others for their problems
  • Don't accept responsibility for their actions
  • Are competitive and worry about their reputation or popularity
Mental Health and Social Emotional "Did You Know":  Compiled by Samanda Davis, LCSW, MSW and Natalie Koncz, Ed.S., NCSP. Resources: https://www.stopbullying.gov/at-risk/warning-signs/index.html
Help Prevent Prescription Drug Abuse / Misuse
Hey TJ Families! Click here to t ake a look at this short video about quick and simple ways to help keep your child safe!
Food and Nutrition Resources for Families
  • Click here for Food Resource Hotline information
Class News You Can Use
All Classes 
  • Great news! All Class T-Shirts are now available (as well as other TJ gear) in the Spartan Store!

     
  • Supporting our TJ students, classrooms and teacher is as simple as a click of a button. Visit the online store to donate to TJ PTO today: Online Spartan Spirit Store for TJ Gear
Class of 2019 - Seniors
The Class of '19 is raising money for senior year activities including After Prom.

How you can support:
TJ AVID is selling Do it yourself Senior Shirts! 

Join the new TJ tradition!

Tie Dye, paint and decorate to your Style!

Senior DIY Shirts $15 

Contact  [email protected]

Class of 2020 - Juniors
The Class of 2020 will raise money throughout the year for senior year activities including After Prom.

How you can support:
  • Host an event and donate the proceeds to the class of 2020!
  • Make a tax deductible financial donation by clicking here.  Be sure to find out if your employer will match our donation!
Please contact Megan Perkins ([email protected]) or Lisa LoJacono ([email protected] to get involved in fundraising and other activities!

Class of 2021 - Sophomores
  • We're also looking for volunteers to host future events for our class parents. If interested, please come to the next PTO meeting, or send an email to [email protected]; or [email protected] to find out more.
Class of 2022 - Freshmen
  • If you have any questions or interest in joining a team of parents to help coordinate fundraising efforts and community building, please email [email protected] for more information.