SJPSF Blog 1.1 – 9/17/20

SJPSF Blog 1.1 – 9/17/20

The SJPS Foundation is PASSIONATE about all things St. Joe Bears!

This blog is about keeping things light, and spreading cheer and community.  Thanks for reading!

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

New Kids on the Block shares the stories of new BEARS in town. Welcome to the family. We’re so glad you’re here!

LET’S GET TO KNOW ONE ANOTHER.

Meet Amy and her four children who moved to our area last year. 

Left to Right: Bennett, Upton 7th grader; Arden, Lincoln Elementary 1st grader; Rowan, Lincoln 3rd grader; Ava, SJHS Sophomore
While researching schools districts, I realized what a crown jewel the public school system here in St Joseph was. Moving to St. Joseph would not only be beneficial for my children’s growth, but they would also receive a quality education taught by dedicated teachers in a highly rated school district.
We have not been disappointed.  With four children in three schools, one of whom has special needs, I have found the staff to be receptive, accommodating and helpful in every way.  Most notably, Mr. Hubble and Mr. Mandarino have gone out of their way to help my children.
It is evident to me that the teachers and entire school staff are devoted to creating a positive learning environment for all children.  Opportunities abound not only for their educational growth, but also their social-emotional growth.  We have been warmly received by the community and have established friendships that will last a lifetime.  The children are thriving since we made the move and I can honestly say we have never been happier.  We are truly home here!
~ Amy Neal
"The teachers are engaging and the students are down to earth." ~Ava, SJHS Sophomore
"All the teachers and even Mr. Hubble remember my name." ~Rowan, Lincoln Elementary 3rd grader

MANY HAPPY RETURNS

Many Happy Returns shares the stories of SJPS graduates who have returned to the district as parents, grandparents, or staff.

LET’S GET TO KNOW ONE ANOTHER.

Meet the Upton 7th graders whose parents all attended SJPS!

Left to Right: Jamie (Mandarino) Spitale (mom), Haley Spitale (daughter); Emma Reithmeier (daughter), Dawn (Wilder) Reithmeier (mother); Jessica (Okon) Fette (mother), Emilia Fette (daughter), Dan Fette (Father) Jessica married Dan and they graduated together; Tim Straub (father), Elizabeth Straub (daughter); Jeff Yeager (father), Talan Yeager (son)
There’s a saying around here – once a Bear, always a Bear.  A true statement in every sense for these families!  All of the parents in the photograph attended St. Joseph Public Schools and graduated in the Class of 1992.  Eventually they made their way back to St. Joe to raise their families.  Their children all attended Lincoln Elementary and are current 7th graders at Upton Middle School.  
 We don’t know if this happens in other districts, but it’s pretty special.  Have a great school year parents and students!

 

GO BEARS!

I’m so thankful to be back in St. Joseph! There’s not a better place to send my kids to school and to raise my family. It’s even worth my hour commute to work in South Bend every day! I’m very fortunate to have my parents, 3 brothers and their families here in town too. Go Bears! - Jamie (Mandarino) Spitale
I’ve lived all over the country. I always knew that when the time came, I wanted to raise my family in St. Joseph. It has been a blessing watching my kids go to a school that I love so much! - Dawn (Wilder) Reithmeier
Thank-A-Staff
The Galsterer family wanted to honor their teachers in a special way. 
They made a donation to the SJPS Foundation at the end of the 2020 school year
to thank their teachers for a great year!

HAVE SOMETHING POSITIVE TO SHARE?

A funny story, school memory, fabulous photo?

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