Lower School News

2024 Alphas Remember Their Omegas at Christmas

Jackson Academy not only fosters mentoring and learning across grades, but takes steps to help students maintain those mentoring relationships after graduation. This month, first graders wrote Christmas letters to someone special in their lives – the Alpha and Omega buddies they were paired with during their kindergarten year.

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Little Dribblers Turn 40!

JA’s second graders spend time in physical education class developing fine motor skills, sequencing skills, self-confidence, and teamwork. Known collectively as the Little Dribblers, these hard-working students demonstrate what they have learned to a packed Raider Dome during halftime of the varsity girls basketball games. The Little Dribblers program continues as one of JA’s much-anticipated basketball season traditions.  It is fondly remembered, with Little Dribblers keeping their T-shirts and second-grader-sized basketballs throughout the years. Some Little Dribblers even remember their routines years after their performances.

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JA Students Thank U.S. Armed Forces Heroes

On Veterans Day, the entire Jackson Academy community, including students, faculty, and parents, found many ways to show appreciation for those who have served our country and are currently serving. Activities included performances, parades, and classroom activities, demonstrating JA’s collective respect for our veterans.

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Santa’s Favorite Elves Return

Over the next few weeks, JA’s talented theatre students will partner with enthusiastic second and third graders to create something magical for the upcoming “Christmas With the Arts” event on December 9.

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Book Buddies Conduct First Interview

First graders met their sixth-grade Book Buddy for the first time on November 1. The annual JA program pairs an older and younger student for a year-long friendship.  Book Buddies is one of JA’s many intentional occasions for students across grades to learn from one another. The program also helps students develop a love of […]

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Alpha and Omega Buddies Reunite

Jackson Academy has long believed that the Alpha & Omega pairings of seniors and kindergartners provide lasting benefits. Sometimes, buddies keep in touch throughout adulthood. Recently, two buddies—Robert Crisler ’16 and current student Caden Callison—reconnected through ninth-grade football.

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Third Grade VR Dinosaur Day a Success!

In educational terminology, virtual reality engages students with learning, increases retention, builds emotional intelligence, fosters creative thinking, and challenges and motivates students. In kids’ terminology, virtual reality is fun.

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Play Complements Learning at JA

Play break at school might just be the most exciting part of a child’s day. Not only is it a time for imaginations to run wild, friendships to form, and laughter to abound, but it is also a crucial time for social, physical, and cognitive development in growing children.

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A Fun Focus on Football

It was a football frenzy last week at JA as students of multiple ages celebrated the game! First graders got time with their Upper School Football Buddies on Thursday when the buddies visited their classrooms. Varsity players joined first graders for a fun-filled party with food, games, and great conversation. This annual tradition fosters connections between our older and younger divisions. First graders joined their Football Buddies on the field Friday night for the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem to culminate the week. 

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