Walking the halls
By MERVIN CLEVELAND Principal of Jasper Junior High School

It is hard to believe that by the time you read this letter, we will have only a few days of school remaining for the year. How quickly this school year has passed!

I hope the "walks" we have taken this year gave you a little insight about the many things that occurred on the junior high campus. I also hope that the experiences that the students encountered this year both academically and socially helped in their development to enable them to be successful for the next school year.

Some changes are on the "board" for next year. They include classroom scheduling, dress code, and student class requirements. These changes will be addressed at a later date. Some students, who for some unknown reason were not successful during the regular school year, will have the opportunity to participate in our extended- year program for advancement to the next grade.

The state mandated administration of the 8th grade TAKS tests in math and reading are scheduled for July 1st and 2nd. Those students who were not successful on the first two administrations will have one final opportunity to pass. If not, the state mandates that they will not be promoted to the next grade.

It is my suggestion that over the summer break, you insist that your student take advantage of the "Study Island" program which is on web site. Each student has their password to get into the program. The district has purchased this program, so that the students may have continuous reinforcement over the summer holidays.

I thank all the junior high parents for letting the staff and administration have an active part in your son's/daughter's life this year. So, until next year, have a safe and happy summer.