June 12, 2025 
Good afternoon, RJ Grey Families:

You've all made it to the final Eye on the Junior High of the school year. My intention in writing these weekly messages is to make sure you're informed about what goes on at RJ Grey at a high level. A secondary purpose is to fill you in on the aspects that I feel make us unique, special, and a great school. Through my own anecdotes or personal stories, I hope you've felt connected to our school this year.

Next Friday, we'll host an end-of-year assembly for all of our students. We walk to the high school and take over their auditorium, which is the only location that holds all of us comfortably. We'll give out some awards, honor any retirees, and watch our end-of-year slideshow. It's always one of my favorite events of the year.

At the assembly, I always take the chance to say a few words to our students before they head off for summer. While I haven't written my remarks yet, I will share something related to technology. It seems that everywhere I turn recently, I'm seeing a news story, article, or Instagram message about the risks associated with young people and technology! Whether it be the number of hours on screens, the antagonizing and taunting that can happen with gaming, or just the ever-present access to others - known and unknown - the constant access to technology can be too much for our kids (and adults, too). My words will really try to encourage our students to find a way to disconnect from technology this summer. I'll ask them to put their phones away and find something else to do! When you say the same thing at home, know that I am supporting your message! 

I am lucky that my own kids are young enough not to have a ton of technology. We're additionally lucky that my kids live next door to their four cousins and have other kids of similar ages on our street. There is always someone to play with, ride bikes with, draw in chalk with, or make rainbow loom bracelets with. As you help your kids get set up for a summer away from school, I hope you help them make plans that avoid technology. My words to kids next week will be (hopefully) at their level, and maybe even funny. 

As school comes to a close next Friday (11:10 dismissal), we'll make sure that students turn in any of their borrowed materials. If you see any library books, other texts, or materials, please help get those to your child's backpack to return. Similarly, we collect our Chromebooks and chargers for the summer. If your child is planning to end their school year early, please make sure that devices and other belongings are returned prior to their last day.
 
On Tuesday, we'll be taking our 7th graders to Mel's Funway. On Wednesday, we'll be taking our 8th graders to Canobie Lake Park. These are ideal times to do what I mentioned above - disconnect from technology and have fun with others, doing something active! All of our school rules and expectations apply to the trips. We've had a bit of a behavior ramp-up this week, and for some students, we'll question whether they are ready to be out on a trip on their own. We appreciate your support in keeping your child focused on school through the end of next week and supporting us with positive behavior expectations. 
  
You might have seen the yard signs for free meals this summer. If you are interested in this free service available to anyone 18 and under, please check out the information on our website.

Our Superintendent just sent a Strategic Planning Survey link to a wide variety of people. As we look to create a strategic plan for the District for the next 5-7 years, please provide us with your input on this survey. Your unique experience at RJ Grey and our elementary schools is important, and we hope to hear from all of you.

Graduation Special - Save $25 on an ABSAF Pass!
Start your student’s high school journey strong! The ABSAF Pass gives you and your family free admission to regular season high school home games, theater productions like Proscenium Circus and the RJ Grey musical, and funds student activities in academics, arts, and athletics — the entire school year! Whether it’s cheering under the lights or applauding center stage, the Pass pays for itself in just a handful of visits. Show your school spirit and set your rising freshman (or 8th grader!) up for a great year—get your ABSAF Pass today! Exclusive offer for RJ Grey students only. $150 now through June 20th (regularly $175). Click Here: ABSAF PASS to snag this deal!

If you're interested in working as a special ed assistant next year, we do have several teaching assistant openings. Teaching assistants generally work with students on IEPs. They attend classes to offer support based on the IEP, they help students in the Learning Centers, and perform other invaluable tasks. If you, or someone you know, has experience working with kids, or maybe you have taught and have taken some time off, this is a great re-entry to working in schools. And we're a great school! Please check out our posting and apply. And be in touch with any questions!

Thank you for helping to make this a great year at RJ Grey. I hope you have a fun and safe summer with your families that includes lots of reading, playing, and time spent outside. I hope you can put your phones away for a bit, too. 

Take care,
Jim
Posted by jmarcotte On 12 June, 2025 at 4:57 PM  

 
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