March 20, 2017
Administrator's Corner

Just a reminder that we will be administering CMAS testing on the 23rd and 24th of March. The only students that need to attend during those two days are freshman and certain AP students who will be taking mock exams. If your student is an upperclassman and is taking an AP class they should check with their teacher to confirm if their class is participating in the mock exams. Seniors in Edgenuity classes must also attend on the 23rd, 24th, and April 3rd. If they finish all of their classes in Edgenuity, then they do not need to report.

Spring break is from March 27th through April 3rd with students returning on Tuesday. We hope everyone enjoys the time off and comes back ready to finish the school year strong!

Sólo un recordatorio de que estaremos administrando los exámenes CMAS el 23 y 24 de marzo. Los únicos estudiantes que necesitan asistir durante esos dos días son estudiantes de 9 grado y ciertos estudiantes de AP que van a tomar exámenes simulados. Si su estudiante es un estudiante tomando una clase de AP, debe consultar con su maestro para confirmar si su clase está participando en los exámenes simulados. Los estudiantes de Edgenuity también deben asistir el 23, 24 y 3 de abril. Si terminan todas sus clases en Edgenuity, entonces no necesitan reportar.

Las vacaciones de primavera son del 27 de marzo al 3 de abril con los estudiantes regresando el martes. Esperamos que todos disfruten de el tiempo libre y vuelvan listos para terminar fuertemente el año escolar!

Andrew Skari
Assistant Principal
Quick Links
TJ's Tardy/Truancy Policy
Thank you for your su pport in keeping our attendance at its best!
Week at a Glance - Week of 3/20-3/24
Monday
  • Please click here (or see the above "Athletics Schedule" quick link) to see athletic events for the week
Tuesday
  • Senior class/Prom fundraiser at Slices Pizza all day
  • 9th grade choice of studies - 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday
  • Office Hours/early release
  • All class t-shirts (as well as other gear) for sale during 8th period and after school (during Office Hours) in the lobby.
  • 9th grade choice of studies - 6:00 p.m.
Thursday
  • No classes for 10th, 11th, 12th grade
  • CMAS Testing - 9th grade only
  • Mock AP exams - AP students only 
Friday
  • No classes for 10th, 11th, 12th grade

  • CMAS Testing - 9th grade only
  • Mock AP exams - AP students only
Kudos Korner
  • On March 11, 2017 Thomas Jefferson's JROTC competed in the Annual All City Drill Meet held at Manual High School in Denver, Colorado. This annual Meet kicks off the local area competitions and decides the JROTC City Drill Champions for 2017. TJ's drill teams, just coming off a great showing at the Regional Qualifying meet in San Antonio, TX were primed and ready for the opening round of Colorado area events.  After the dust had settled Saturday afternoon, TJ's teams (including HP, Drill Team, Freshman Drill, Platoon Drill, HP and Drill Team Color Guards, Guidon Drill, as well as several individual cadet drills) had all placed first or second in most every event at the competition (9 events and trophies in all).  The JROTC Instructors have called this drill meet "one for the ages" for any school here in DPS. With this first area Drill Meet completed, the HP team will now turn it's attention to the Army National Championships in Louisville, KY scheduled for April 1st.  The team flies off on March 30th to prepare for the Army JROTC National Drill Championships and are hoping to represent TJ and the DPS JROTC programs in outstanding fashion. Way to go, JROTC!
  • Through the annual Mayor's Youth Awards (MYA) event, the City and County of Denver proudly recognizes youth between the ages of 13 - 19 who have overcome difficult situations by making positive changes and exhibiting strength and determination in the face of adversity. Congratulations to senior Ge'Swan Swanson, who has been selected as a recipient of the 2017 Mayor's Youth Award. We're proud of you, Ge'Swan!
TJ's 2017 Inaugural Online Auction
Hello TJ Parents and Families!

Do you have a professional product or service you'd like to promote to the rest of TJ? 

TJ is hosting an Inaugural Online Auction with live bidding available April 16-20. This school-wide fundraiser will help fund larger classroom grants to make TJ stronger for all our students. The objective is for this event to become TJ's biggest annual fundraiser, but we need your help to reach our goal.

Some of the hottest items in any auction are those that people spend their money on anyway--restaurant or shopping gift cards, auto/mechanic services, salon services, massage therapy, weekend getaways, household repairs/services, landscaping, legal and accounting services, movie passes, etc. And these are a great way to get the word out about your business or service! 

If interested, donations are needed ASAP and can be made directly to TJ's online auction system at https://tjhs.ptapal.com/auction_donate.asp. Donated items can be dropped off in TJ's office and are needed no later than April 7th. 

The TJHS 2017 auction letter provides additional information on the auction and also has the tax ID number (as all donations are tax deductible). If you have any questions, please do not hesitate contact Megan Perkins (megandperkins@gmail.com or 303.870.0579).

We appreciate your support of this new event and look forward to seeing what proceeds from the auction will be able to do for the school! 

Want more information on how the Auction works?  See the Auction FAQs here.  

Thank you!
-Auction Committee
9News Health Fair - April 2nd
Strengthening Families Program at Hamilton Middle School
Who:  Students (within or outside of HMS) ages 10-14 and their parent(s) or guardian(s)
Free childcare provided for children under 10
 
What:  SFP is a family group that provides youth and parents 17 tools to become healthier, happier and stronger families.
 
When:  SFP will begin Tuesday, April 4th from 430-7p. SFP will occur every Tuesday for 7 weeks, ending May 16th.  Free dinner is provided to families from 430-5p and group is from 5-7p.
           
Where:  Hamilton Middle School cafeteria
 
Why:  Parents get to learn to love with limits during this often-challenging transitional time from Elementary to Middle or Middle to High School. Youth get to participate in interactive groups that help them gain empathy for their parents and others, learn how to abstain from drugs and alcohol and grow into healthy young peoples. IN ADDITION, if you choose to participate and attend at least 6/7 groups, your family will receive a $100 gift card.
 
Contact Lauren Dodge, InSchool Prevention Specialist with interest or for more information. (720) 423-9499, lauren_dodge@dpsk12.org
PTO Fundraiser - April 9th 

April 9, 2017
5:30-7:30 p.m. 
$40 per person, $20 goes to school PTO  Fundraising and so much more, join us -  limited space.   Sign up now!
Buy Your Yearbook!



This is just a friendly reminder to buy a yearbook soon! In order to have the book in time for the signing party in May, you must purchase your book before April 14. To buy a book, click on this link. If you are you unsure about whether or not you already bought a book, login into the Josten's site to find out. Thanks!

Wanted!
Help make TJ beautiful! Xeriscape TJ on Saturday, April 15th. 

Are you a landscaper or love to garden and work in the dirt? We need you! 

- A couple flatbed trucks to pick up and deliver trees to TJ
- Approximately 20 adults and 20 students to help dig holes, mix dirt, plant and water new trees in designated locations
- Extra dirt, compost or potting soil to mix with existing soil
- DPS work trailer will be provided with supply of shovels, gloves, etc.

Email  springhericks@gmail.com if you have time, tools or trucks that would make this project go smoothly. Thank you! 
From the Counselors - Save the Date
GT News
School Social Worker Samanda Davis, LCSW and School Psychologist Natalie Koncz, Ed.S., NCSP are announcing a new group that centers on students who have been identified as gifted and talented.  The subject of the groups will focus on the following topics:

* Learning profiles
* What is giftedness?
* Emotional sensitivities
* Friendships/relationships
* Mood swings
* Resiliency

Interested students should complete the form emailed or sent to Infinite Campus Messenger or stop by room 114 (located off of the main hallway).

TJ GT is taking inspiration from Dead Poets Society, and is calling for poems due to Mr. Weaver's mailbox or hands by April 3.

Theme: Open to any theme, but no vulgar/obscene language.

Length:  Between 3 and 6 lines, plus title. 

Style: Poems may be in any style, rhyming or unrhymed.

Important Attendance Reminders
Parents and Guardians,
 
As a reminder, the key to your student's academic success is coming to school on time and attending every class. Please note that we will not be accepting excused absences for students who are in school and want to miss one class to study or hang out. This is not acceptable. Also, we will require that all seniors have a 92% attendance rate to attend prom and participate in commencement ceremonies. (Seniors can connect with Mr. Skari for how to fix their attendance.) 

Please click here for a copy of our 
attendance policy.
 
If your student is struggling and needing academic support, please remember that we have tutoring after school in the library on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Office hours on Wednesday is from 2:15pm-3pm and every student should be connecting with at least one teacher during that time.
Attn: All Juniors and Seniors Who Have Attended Challenge Day
TJHS is hosting a fundraising event on May 2nd and we are in need of two students to speak to a large crowd of 150-200 people regarding their experience or sharing their "If you really knew me".  If you are interested, please let Mrs. Davis in the social workers office  know as soon as possible.  This is a great resume and college application builder.  You can email, call, or visit her in person:
 
Contact information is
Telephone number is 720-423-7072
Office 114C
New TJ Student Club
The Hispanic/Latino Student Club meets on Wednesdays at lunch in room 218.
Mumps Alert for Families
The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment has shared with us that there have been several cases of the Mumps virus reported in the state over the past few weeks. In order to minimize the spread of mumps in schools, the agency has asked us to provide information to our families.

We are sharing with you a cover letter in English and in Spanish for families along with a Mumps Alert letter in English and in Spanish from the CDPHE. Please share this valuable information with your school community.
TJ Gear Wanted!
Leadership is doing a sports/TJ memorabilia project.  TJ families, alumni, or community members do you have any TJ gear that you no longer want?  Please bring them into the main office labelled Leadership. 
Peru Trip - Act Soon!
Calling all TJ Travelers! If you are interested in hiking scenic Macchu Picchu, rafting through the Sacred Valley while looking at Inca sites, perusing an Indian Market, touring a wildlife sanctuary and so much more... we are headed to PERU in SUMMER 2018!!! Please stop by room 217 or email  Jennifer_Sonheim@dpsk12.org  for details!
Mental Health and Social/Emotional Tips
~ TJ Talks Event ~
Greetings TJ Community!
We are excited to announce Part 2 of our first TJ Talks series. Parents, please join us as we continue the conversation of navigating the digital and electronic world with our kids, and ourselves!

Guest Speaker- Michael Vladeck
Thursday April 6th at 6:00pm 
Thomas Jefferson High School- Room TBD
Free and open to the public
 
What will the evening look like? Great question! Mindfulness family counselor Michael Vladeck will be completing an engaging presentation for the first part of the event, and then he will open it up for Q&A to the audience!

He has a passion and wide knowledge base on how to communicate and connect more deeply as a family in ways that strengthen your relationships and deeply support the growth of your kids.

Our thoughts? What a great way to get specific questions answered and get some professional guidance on any social or familial situations you encounter!

Want additional information? Check out his website.

Mental Health and Social Emotional Tip: Compiled by Samanda Davis, LCSW, MSW and Natalie Koncz, Ed.S., NCSP  
Resources: www.ted.com   and www.tinybuddha.com
Spirit Store Items
Get Your Gear On!
The TJ Spartan Spirit Store is a virtual store which is online. The store is also set up at some school events such as athletic events, concerts, plays and conference nights.
 
Check out the new American Apparel soft 100% cotton v-neck t-shirts in dark gray or white with gold TJ on the front and Spartan on the back. Also, get a new gray fleece blanket with gold TJ embroidered in the corner to keep you warm while cheering on the Spartans this winter. 

New XXL and XL sizes in men's Under Armour ankle zip sweatpants and new inventory in the Under Armour 1/4 zip long sleeve pullovers in graphite gray stripe with embroidered TJ. XXL hoodies and T-shirts now available.
Center for Family Opportunity Resources
Class News You Can Use
All Classes 
  • Great news! All Class T-Shirts are now available (as wells as other TJ gear) in the Spartan Store and during 8th period and after school (during Office Hours) on Wednesdays in the lobby. (Pictures of 2018 and 2020 shirts coming soon!)
Class of 2017 - Seniors
Prom Fundraiser: The senior class is doing an all-day fundraiser at Slices (Hampden) on Tuesday, March 21st - we will get $0.25 for every $1.00 spent, so be sure to come out and support!

After Prom is Back! 
Hello TJ families, as we prepare to re-establish this Senior Year event your help is needed. TJ has not had an After Prom in 4 years - it is time to bring it back! We are asking senior parents to get involved to create a memorable night for the Class of 2017. Your time and / or generous donations are appreciated!

After Prom is a free, fun, extension of Prom, held at the school from 11pm -2am (April 22, 2017) Students may leave but no re-entry allowed. Food, casino tables, inflatable obstacle course, lounge, music, and exciting giveaways to be announced all night. Student's names will be drawn, they must be present to win.

Parents participating during the event will hardly be noticed (by teens). The night cannot happen without you.

If you would like to financially support After Prom, donate here.
Questions? Email Steph Stoetzer.

Thanks in advance for your support!



Bad Daddy's Burger Bar Fundraiser! 

The Senior Class is hosting a fundraiser at Bad Daddy's Burger Bar in Landmark.  It will be held on  April 11th  and 20% of the food and beverage order will be donated.  Participants simply need to mention TJ.  

SENIOR T-Shirts - Get Yours Now
We still have some of the original Class of 2017 T-Shirts available. Y ou can purchase online and pickup at school OR  see Julie Thibodeau in the office  to buy your shirt.  Profits from these shirts support After-Prom Event for 2017.  So please support our Seniors and a safe, fun Prom 2017.  Purchase online here!
Stay CONNECTED - TeamApp - TJ Class of 2017, Twitter @2017tjhs, facebook TJHS 2017 Spartan Support 

Questions:  TJHS2017@gmail.com
Thanks for helping to make TJ and the Class of 2017 Great!
Class of 2018 - Juniors
  • Class of 2018 Parents:  Mr. TJ is on the horizon.  This male talent/variety show is a TJ tradition for Senior Boys and will be held Friday, April 14th.  Junior parents run the concession sales during the event.  We are in need of parents who want to volunteer to help with concessions and help coordinate the show.  This is a fun way to get involved.  Volunteer commitments vary; anyone interested should email: Sara_andolsek@dpsk12.org.  
  • Fiesta like there's no Mañana! 
    Let's FUNdraise + create wonderful memories for both the Class of 2018's and the Class of 2020's Senior year activities
    (which include Prom, After Prom, Mr. TJ, etc).
    Cinco de Mayo party on Saturday, May 6th at 7pm.
    Hosted by The Leprys and The Freedbergs at Casa de Freedberg.
    $30 per person (collected at the door) which includes appetizers + desserts, margaritas, wine + beer plus a fun evening with a great community. This fiesta is going to be serious fun, so please bring your friends! Adults only, please. 
    All are welcome whether or not you have a student in the TJ Class of 2018 and/or 2020. Please RSVP here by May 1, 2017. If you are unable to attend and would like to make a donation to the Class of 2018's senior year activities, please contact Kary Cramer at karycramer@msn.com. Please contact Lisa Lojacono at lisalojacono@gmail.com to contribute to the Class of 2020's senior year activities.
  • Please look for more opportunities this school year for parents to socialize, get connected and contribute to the Class of 2018 fundraising efforts.  Please email   karycramer@msn.com  if you're interested in helping out at any point this year. We need you!
Class of 2019 - Sophomores
  • We are excited to introduce the Class of '19 retro t-shirt for sale (picture above)!  T-shirts are $15 each and proceeds will help fund Class of '19 Senior Year activities, including After Prom.  Shirts can be purchased directly from Julie Thibodeau, online at the Spartan Store, during Office Hours in the lobby, or at various school events. Parents will be selling the t-shirts in the lobby on February 8th and 15th as well.  THANK YOU for supporting the Class of '19!
     
  • If you have an idea for fundraising, community building event or volunteer opportunity, please contact Jane Bulger:  janeebulger@gmail.com
Class of 2020 - Freshmen
  • Fiesta like there's no Mañana! Let's FUNdraise + create wonderful memories for both the Class of 2018's and the Class of 2020's Senior year activities 
    (which include Prom, After Prom, Mr. TJ, etc). 
    Cinco de Mayo party on Saturday, May 6th at 7pm.
    Hosted by The Leprys and The Freedbergs at Casa de Freedberg. 
    $30 per person (collected at the door) which includes appetizers + desserts, margaritas, wine + beer plus a fun evening with a great community. This fiesta is going to be serious fun, so please bring your friends! Adults only, please. 
    All are welcome whether or not you have a student in the TJ Class of 2018 and/or 2020.  Please RSVP here  by May 1, 2017.  If you are unable to attend and would like to make a donation to the Class of 2018's senior year activities, please contact Kary Cramer at karycramer@msn.com. Please contact Lisa Lojacono at lisalojacono@gmail.com to contribute to the Class of 2020's senior year activities.
     
  • Thank-you to Megan Perkins and Lisa LoJacono who have agreed to be parent representatives for the Class of 2020. Please look for important information to come.  If you are interested in getting involved please email Megan at:  megandperkins@gmail.com or Lisa at:  lisalojacono@gmail.com.
News from the Future Center
Seniors and families, we are approaching financial aid deadlines.  To receive priority financial aid and institutional scholarships, students must complete FAFSA and institutional scholarship applications before the colleges' deadlines.  Even if you think you have too much income to be considered for need-based aid, some colleges may still require the FAFSA to apply for their scholarships.  Click  here  to see a list of deadlines for Colorado colleges and universities.
 
For upcoming events, college visits, financial aid workshops, scholarships, and much more, visit the Future Center wikipage !
 
Rena Maez 
College Advisor, Thomas Jefferson High School 
Denver Scholarship Foundation | a 501(c)(3) Public Charity  
3950 S. Holly Street  |  Denver, CO 80237 
O 720.423.7134   F 720.423.7098
   
rmaez@denverscholarship.org |   www.denverscholarship.org