Throughout the month of March, students in the St. Johns County School District are learning the meaning and importance of trustworthiness, this month’s Pillar of Character. Together we can help “our” children to develop the tools and strategies they need to make the right choices. Students learn that it is not always easy to make the right choice, but that the moral compass they are developing will help guide them to do what is right, even if it is a more difficult decision.
Parents, I encourage you to join us in teaching your students that trustworthiness is essential to building positive relationships with others. A trustworthy person is honest, reliable, loyal and has integrity. Good character does not just happen; it is a result of families who intentionally teach their children about character.
This month we enter the district and statewide assessment period. This can be a stressful time for students particularly in this year of COVID-19 when stress levels are already running high.
I encourage you to utilize the resources below to make sure your child is ready for testing.
- Students can find practice FSA tests here: https://fsassessments.org/students-and-families/practice-tests/index.stml
- This article from Nemours talks about what test anxiety is and gives some practical suggestions to combat it https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/test-anxiety.html
- This blog article gives practical tips for how to memorize and chunk information as well as how to manage your study space https://blog.prepscholar.com/how-to-study-better-in-high-school
Early registration for the 2021-22 school year began March 1. This registration is only for children new to the school district, including those entering kindergarten. It can be completed online at www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/student/enrollment or by visiting the student’s assigned school website. Registering your child(ren) early helps us with planning, hiring teachers and ensuring that the infrastructure is in place to support our new students on the very first day.
To be eligible for public kindergarten in the SJCSD, children must be 5 years old on or before September 1 and must reside in St. Johns County. For additional information on registration, contact the Student Services Department at 547-7598 or the assigned school.
Lastly, Spring Break is just around the corner and provides students and staff much needed time to recharge. Enjoy this time with your family and friends and remember you are your child’s biggest advocate and support in helping to ensure they finish the school year strong.
Sincerely,
Tim Forson, Superintendent of Schools,
St. Johns County School District
