As we continue through the school year, we’ve had the opportunity to celebrate the success of our students who have recently competed in the science, history, music and art fairs. I am in awe of the hard work and dedication of the students, teachers and various support staff in curriculum and student support services to ensure that we excel in many areas.
The March CHARACTER COUNTS! Pillar is Trustworthiness. The focus in our classrooms will be on teaching students the elements of trustworthiness, being honest; not deceiving, cheating or stealing; having integrity; doing what you say you’ll do and keeping your promises; being loyal; standing by your values. Parents, I encourage you to reinforce these at home so that students know that trustworthiness is an essential building block for positive relationships with others. Families must intentionally teach good character and strengthen our partnership in educating the whole child.
March is also Music in our Schools Month (MIOSM). For 38 years, the National Association for Music Education has celebrated MIOSM. This year’s theme is “Music is in all of us.” The study of music contributes to young people’s development through heightened listening, reading, self-expression and creativity skills. In addition, music education helps students acquire skills in the production and performance of music, as well as an understanding of history and culture. The SJCSD embraces music education and the multi-faceted benefits it provides for all children.
March continues with the celebration of arts featuring the 17th Annual St. Johns All-County High School Art Show at the St. Augustine Art Association. Be sure to stop by the gallery at 22 Marine St. in St. Augustine or visit online to see the array of artwork by our incredibly talented student artists.
Early registration for the 2023-2024 school year begins on March 1. This registration is only for children entering kindergarten or who are new to the school district. Parents and guardians can complete enrollment online at www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/student/enrollment or by visiting the student’s assigned school website. Early registration 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 of age on or before September 1 and reside in St. Johns County. For additional registration information, contact the Student Services Department at 547-7598 or the assigned school. Use our Attendance Zone Locator https://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/zoning/ to input an address and find your assigned school.
Spring Break is just around the corner, so please take this time to refresh and recharge. Enjoy time with family and friends, stay safe and healthy and remember you are your child’s most prominent advocate and support in helping to ensure they finish the school year strong.
Tim Forson
Superintendent of Schools
