Varsity Softball Playoff Game- May 23 Home versus Williamsburg. Game time is 4PM.
Varsity Softball Second Round Game at Glendale at 4 PM.
Graduation May 27 at 7 PM in the GJCTC Auditorium
Week of May 16 - 20
Keystone Exams:
Algebra I- May 16-17
Biology- May 18-19
Literature- May 23-24
Spring Band / Chorus Concert- 5/17
GJCTC Certificate Ceremony - 5/19
FASD Awards Ceremony 5/19 at 7PM in the HS Auditorium
Senior Trip to Hershey Park - 5/20
Graduation 5/27 at 7 pm in the GJCTC Auditorium
Week of May 9 - 13
Science PSSAs on 5/9 and 5/10 with make-ups on 5/11
2-Hour Early Dismissal 5/13
Prom- 5/13
GJCTC Certificate Ceremony - 5/19
FASD Awards Ceremony 5/19 at 7PM in the HS Auditorium
Senior Trip to Hershey Park - 5/20
Graduation 5/27 at 7 pm in the GJCTC Auditorium
Week of May 2 - 6
Math PSSAs on 5/2 and 5/3 with make-ups 5/4
Science PSSAs on 5/9 and 5/10 with make-ups on 5/11
Upcoming- NHS induction Ceremony on 5/2.
AP Literature Test 5/4
AP US History Test 5/6
Prom- 5/13
GJCTC Certificate Ceremony - 5/19
FASD Awards Ceremony at 7PM
Senior Trip to Hershey Park - 5/20
Graduation 5/27 at 7 pm in the GJCTC Auditorium
Week of April 25 - 29
PSSA ELA Tests for 7 and 8th grade 4/25 through 4/27, with make-ups 4/28.
Math PSSAs on 5/2 and 5/3 with make-ups 5/4
Science PSSAs on 5/9 and 5/10 with make-ups on 5/11
Upcoming- NHS induction Ceremony on 5/2.
AP Literature Test 5/4
AP US History Test 5/6
Prom- 5/13
GJCTC Certificate Ceremony - 5/19
FASD Awards Ceremony at 7PM
Senior Trip to Hershey Park - 5/20
Graduation 5/27 at 7 pm in the GJCTC Auditorium
Week of April 18 - 22
No School on Monday April 18, 2022
Week of April 11 - 15
Early Dismissal on Wednesday, 4/13/2022
No School on Thursday and Friday, $/14 and 4/15, 2022
Week of April 4 - 8
April 8 will be the whole student body drill for the ALiCE protocol.
Week of March 28 - 4/1
Start of Quarter 4 (3/28/2022)
Week of March 21 - 25
2-Hour Early Dismissal on 3/25 for clerical
Week of March 14 - 18
Attorney General's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Assembly March 15th
3/25 will be a two-hour early dismissal.
The annual school play will be performed on Friday (3/18) and Saturday (3/19) at 7 PM each evening.
Week of March 7 - 11
Normal week of school
Spring Sports begins
Week of February 28 - March 4
No School for students on March 4- Teacher In-Service Day
Week of February 21 - 25
Monday, February 21- No School for Students; Teacher In-Service
Friday, February 25- Boys' Varsity Basketball Playoffs @ Bishop Carrol
Week of February 14 - 18
Varsity Basketball Teacher Appreciation Night on Monday, February 14, 2022
Student scheduling meetings for 7th and 8th grade Tuesday/Wednesday morning
2 Students qualified for the State Band Festival held April 6-9 at Pocono Mountains
3 Students qualified for Regional Choir Festival held on March 24-25 at Altoona Area HS.
Week of February 7 - 11
Early dismissal Friday, February 11
Varsity Basketball Teacher Appreciation Night on Friday, February 11, 2022
Week of January 31 - February 4
Senior Night for Winter Varsity Sports on Thursday, February 3, 2022
Virtual Day on Friday, February 4, 2022
Week of January 24 - 28
Dress Down Week to lift the Winter Blues:
MONDAY:
PJ & Stuffed Animal Day
TUESDAY:
Dress as your Future Profession
WEDNESDAY:
Wear Sunglasses
THURSDAY:
Wear as much Blue as possible
FRIDAY:
Dress Like your Favorite Ferndale Area ES/JSHS Adult
Week of January 17 - 21
No School for teacher in-service on January 17, 2022
2 Hour Early Dismissal on January 21, 2022
Week of January 10 - 14
End of Quarter 2 / Semester 1 on January 14th, which is also a two-hour early dismissal day
Week of January 3 - 7
Welcome back to school January 3
Week of December 20 - 24
Early Dismissal on Thursday, December 23 for Christmas Break
No School on December 24, 2021.
Students return on January 3, 2022.
Week of December 13 - 17
Chorus / Band Concert Wednesday 7 PM
Christmas Spirit Week at the JSHS
Merry Morning Monday
Just wake up and come to school in your pajamas! (School dress code applies) The Merrier the better!
Grinch Go Green Tuesday
Then The Grinch got an idea! He decided we should Wear all GREEN to school this day
It’s a Frosty kind of Wednesday
Show Frosty the Snowman how to stay warm! Wear your favorite hats, scarves and socks
Ringing in the new year Thursday
Wear your best to get ready for 2022
National Ugly Sweater Day Friday
One of our favorite days of the year! Bring on your tackiest sweaters and maybe you will be chosen the Sweater Champ!
Week of December 6 - 10
ALiCE Student Team Meeting Tuesday
HS Seniors to Santa's Workshop on December 8 and 9, 2021
Pep Rally on December 10 for Winter Sports
Week of November 29 - December 3
No School Monday (11/29)
Week of November 22 - 26
Scholarship Assembly on Monday 11/22 for grades 9-12.
Wednesday will be an early dismissal day for the students for Thanksgiving Break.
No School Thursday (11/25) or Friday (11/26)
Week of November 15 - 19
PBIS Assembly Grades 7-12 on Monday, November 15, 2021
ASVAB Testing on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 in the Cafeteria periods 1-4
Picture Retakes are Friday, November 19, 2021. Forms are in the HS Office.
November 22 there will be a Scholarship Assembly for grades 9-12.
Week of November 8 - 12
Monday we will continue our small groups with Mrs. Statler from REACH Counseling services.
Thursday there is no school for students in observance of Veterans' Day.
Friday the JSHS will be hosting a Veterans' Day Assembly and Appreciation Breakfast for our veteran guests.
School Picture Retakes will be on Friday, November 19, 2021. Forms are available in the HS Office.
November 22 there will be a Scholarship Assembly put together by Mrs. Dodson.
Just a reminder, the All-School Play will be held on March 18 - 19, 2022. More details will be forthcoming.
Week of November 1 - 5
This week, students will begin Quarter 2 courses as applicable.
Red Ribbon Week this week:
Monday- Students to wear their favorite team gear. "Don't do drugs! Play sports!"
Tuesday- "Rally in Red" day! We are asking students to wear Red!!!!
Wednesday is "Fight off Drugs Day!" We are asking students to dress like the superhero they are!
Thursday is "White Lie Day" Even white lies about drugs aren't funny. But white lies about ourselves can be hilarious! We are asking students to create and wear a white lie T-Shirt.
Friday is "Scare Away Drugs Day" Its costume Day!!! Remember all school rules apply to costumes.
We are in the planning phases for a Veteran's Day Assembly on Friday, November 12, 2021. We are asking all veteran family member of our students to join us for an assembly with music, singing, student presentations, and a keynote speaker. Afterwards we will be hosting a sit down breakfast for our students and their guests in the Cafeteria. Please contact the school if you or a family member are a veteran and are interested in joining us to recognize and celebrate our hometown heroes. Forms are going home with students on 10/22/2021 and must be returned ASAP for planning purposes. Thank you!
Week of October 18 - 22
Hi there, I’m reaching out with exciting news regarding Community Foundation for the Alleghenies’ scholarships. Beginning THIS YEAR our online applications will be available NOW until February 28th. This means that your students will have twice as much time to apply as normal, and our review committees will have twice as much time to review and select their winners.
This year’s scholarship summary is attached to this email. Please distribute these available awards to any faculty, students, parents, or community members as necessary.
As a reminder, our application site, which can be accessed at cfalleghenies.org/scholarships, uses a tool called the Eligibility Quiz (EQ). When students log in or create an account on our new scholarship application site, they will take the Eligibility Quiz to be matched with all of the awards they may be eligible to apply for.
I’ve also attached: • This year’s scholarship processing form. Please note, we will no longer be accepting students’ Social Security Numbers on these forms. A member of our staff will be reaching out to collect that information from winners directly, out of an abundance of caution regarding their personal information. • NSPA’s Practical Tips on Dealing with Scholarship Displacement: This would be helpful to provide to your college-bound students who are receiving scholarships. Scholarship displacement happens at almost every college in our state, and few people know about it. CFA is engaged in legislation efforts to restrict this practice.
Finally, I was hoping that we could schedule some time, either virtually or in person, to meet within the next few weeks to discuss these opportunities, and so I can learn more about your district and how we can best serve you and your students. Let me know when a good time would be.
Please know how grateful I am for your help in distributing this information to your students. Looking forward to another successful scholarship season!
Best, -Marisa
Marisa Lehman • Donor Services Associate Community Foundation for the Alleghenies Benefiting our region every day, forever.
Love your community? You could support it forever with a gift to the Fund for the Future.
Week of October 11 - 15
Students are off school on Monday, October 11 for Parent/Teacher Conferences.
10/13 PSAT Administered to al l10th grade students
Week of October 4 - 8
Progress Reports will be gong home today, as well as requests for Parent/Teacher Conferences.
FAFSA Completion Night is October 4, 2021
Friday, October 8 is a planned Early Dismissal day for teacher professional development.
Week of September 27 - October 1
Monday- Act 80 Day; No school for students
Progress Reports sent home this week
Friday- 2 Hour Early Dismissal for professional development; students will arrive home 2 hours earlier than normal.
Week of September 20 - 25
R.E.A.C.H. introductory meetings on Monday and Wednesday.
CDT re-test on Tuesday, 9/21/2021.
School Pictures are on Thursday, 9/23
Pep Rally on Friday morning, 9/24/2021
Homecoming Saturday, September 25, 2021
Week of September 13 - 17
This week will include CDT diagnostic tests for the PSSA and Keystone courses. Friday 9/17 will be an early dismissal.
Week of September 6 - 10
No School Monday, September 6 (Labor Day)
Tuesday, September 7, 2021- Meet the Teacher Night from 6:00 PM until 7:30 PM.
Week of August 30 - September 3
Student Code of Conduct Review, make-up iPad distribution, and no school on Friday, September 3rd.
2021-2022 Student Schedules
Dear Parent / Guardian(s) of FAJSHS Students:
Please be aware that to view your student's schedule, you must visit the Powerschool site via a web browser - the Powerschool mobile app does not show schedules until the school year begins. Click below to be redirected to the login page:
Your Student's login is their student ID number (six digit number) and their password to log on to PowerSchool and other school-related accounts has changed! It is now your first initial (capitalized) last initial (capitalized) then your student number! Example: TB123456
2021-2022 7th Grade Orientation:
The annual orientation will not be held prior to the start of school due to uncertain completion of the sewerage/construction project. 7th grade and new students will be escorted through their building at the start of the first day to give them an overview of the building and a sense of general direction concerning the locations of general school areas and their class locations.
2021-2022 SY Student Schedules:
Student schedules are being finalized at this time. A One-Call message was sent with directions on how to access your student's schedule, as well as information for how to obtain a paper copy of the schedule should one be requested or desired.
August 23, 2021 the schools district-wide will resume Monday through Friday hours of operation of 7:30 until 3:30.
May 31 - June 4
The Last Week of School will be bittersweet; the end of a pandemic school year is a welcomed sight, but the loss of the Seniors from the building next year will be a downside...
May 31st is Memorial Day, No School
June 1st is a 2-Hour Early Dismissal for Clerical
June 2, the last day of school is a short school day with students being picked up from the JSHS around 9:30-10:00 AM.
June 2nd is Graduation for the Senior Class at 7 PM at the GJCTC Auditorium
June 3 is Teacher in-service
June 4 begins summer hours, the schools will be closed until Monday, June 7 at 8 AM
May 24 - 28
This will be the last full week of school for the year!!!
We will administer Keystone Literature Exams on 5/24 and 5/25 with a make-up date(s) of 5/26 and 5/27 if absolutely necessary. The Lady Yellow Jacket Varsity softball team travels to Conemaugh Valley Monday evening for District VI playoff game.
The Senior Trip to Hershey Park will be 5/28.
May 17 - 21
The Keystone Exams will be administered this week and will be administered into next week as well. We have a busy week with the Band Concert on May 18, the Awards Ceremony on May 20, and the Senior Walk / Picnic on May 21. Stay tuned for more information!!
Sports:
May 10 - 14
We have a lot of activity here at the Hive, as we are scheduled for a lot of Spring sporting events, as well as Prom and Post-Prom on Friday. Next week will be the administration of Keystone Exams to selected students, as well as the wrap up for Spring Sports, the Band Concert on May 18, the Awards Ceremony on May 20, and the Senior Walk at the Elementary / Senior Picnic on Friday the 21st. Soon enough, our graduates will leave our halls for their future endeavors and we will prepare for the next year of classes and activities.
May 3 - 5
PSSA make-up exams will be conducted this week, as this is the last week of the exam window. Spring sports for this week will be a challenge as we have rain in the forecast for most of the week. This week's sports schedule:
Due to weather, Monday's (5/3/2021) game at Shanksville is postponed.
Due to circumstances out of our control, Tuesday's game versus Rockwood is postponed.
April 26 - 30
PSSA Exams will be administered to all 7th and 8th grade students in the subject of Mathematics.
Additionally, PSSA Exams will be administered to all 8th grade students in the subject of Science.
All parent(s)/guardian(s) are asked to make sure that their students go to bed early, eat a nutritious breakfast either at home or at school, and are readied for a day of testing.
Dates: Math- April 26 and 27.
Science- April 28 and 29
Make-Up Dates: May 3 - 6 as necessary.
April 26th at 7 PM is the NHS Induction Ceremony.
April 30 will be the NHS Service Project. Typically, the students clean up Ferndale Avenue, but that was held up this year with the road construction, so the students will be cleaning up areas around the school instead.
April 19 - 23
PSSA Exams will be administered to all 7th and 8th grade students in the subject of English Language Arts.
All parent(s)/guardian(s) are asked to make sure that their students go to bed early, eat a nutritious breakfast either at home or at school, and are readied for a day of testing.
Dates: April 19, 20, and 21.
Math dates: April 26 and 27
Science dates (8th grade only): April 28 and 29.
Make-ups will be May 3 and if necessary, May 4.
Thank you!
April 12 - 19
All students must be approved as virtual learners or must attend in-person classes. Students cannot switch from in-person to virtual on a day-today basis. If a student is not an approved virtual learner, the student must attend classes at the Ferndale Area JSHS or will be marked absent. Absences will need to be followed by an excuse within three days or the absence will be unexcused.
April 5 - 9
Monday, April 5- No School for students, Easter Break
Important Dates:
April 19- May 7 PSSA Window
April 26- NHS Induction Ceremony- 7 PM
May 7- 2-Hour Early dismissal for Teacher In-Service
Check online PD Calendar for agenda
May 14-15- Prom/Post Prom
May 17 – 28- Keystone Window
May 20- Awards Banquet- 7 PM
June 1- 2-Hour Early out for clerical
June 2- Last student day / graduation
June 3- Teacher in-service
Sports for the Week:
March 30 - April 2
Tuesday, March 30 is a planned Virtual Day; all students will attend school via Zoom.
March 31 is our Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Incentive Day for the Easter Holiday Break, and is also an Early Dismissal Day. Students will arrive home 2-Hours earlier than a normal school day.
April 1 through April 5 there is no school for students for the Easter Holiday Break.
March 22-26
Monday, March 22 will be a Teacher In-Service Day, no school for students.
Report cards will be sent home this week.
Quarter 4 begins on March 23, all virtual students are welcomed back and should consider returning t school for the last quarter of the year.
PSSA exams for 7th and 8th grad students are scheduled to begin on April 19. All students, including CPDLF and Ferndale Area Synchronous Learners are required to test in-person at the Ferndale Area JSHS. Letters were sent home to explain this to the parent(s)/guardian(s).
March 15 - 19
Photo below is a $350 check presentation from Crystal Burkhart, Ferndale Area Junior Senior High School staff member and Helping Hands contributor to Dr. Jacqueline Myers, Board of Directors’ member for Beginnings, Inc., https://www.beginningsinc.org/, a nonprofit organization who strives “to enhance the development of children and empower their families by providing ‘the best start a child can have.’”
Helping Hands is a faculty initiative to raise money through various fundraisers to provide family-based services and supports to students and their families.
This is the last week of the marking period and grades will be due on Monday, March 22.
Spring Sports are in full swing, and practices will soon lead to scrimmages and official games in the following two weeks.
March 8 - 12
Spring Sports practice begins.
Prom / Post-Prom on May 14, 2021
Prom is being planned for the Masonic Temple.
We may decorate as usual; this was rumored to be a "no-go" item, but that is inaccurate. We have secured a DJ, a caterer who will serve food per State guidelines, and we will follow the mask mandate for the event. Social distancing on the dance floor will be reminded throughout the evening. All recommendations by the state and federal health officials will be recognized.
Post Prom is being planned for 814 Lanes and Games
We will have the facility to ourselves, and we have numerous activities and added items for the evening, including a pizza buffet, a coffee bar, a breakfast buffet, and other items that will be decided upon the NHS committee members. There is potential for a caricaturist, a photo booth, wax hands, and other items that will be voted upon by the NHS members.
End of Quarter 3 is March 22, 2021- report cards will be distributed March 26, 2021
Reminder for credit recovery, a student must score a minimum of 65% in Q3 for a grade adjustment in Q1 (55%); the same will be offered for Q4 to adjust Q2.
There will not be a pass/fail grading option for this school year; students must pass each course with an average of 60% minimum for credit to be given.
March 1 - 5, 2021
PICTURE MAKE-UPS: March 2, 2021 (fingers crossed)
District wide “2 hour early dismissal days” for the purpose of professional development, supporting students, families, and preparing digital content for synchronous learning:
March 5
March 12
March 19
March 26
April 9
April 16
April 23
April 30
May 14
May 21
May 28
February 22 - 26, 2021
PICTURE MAKE-UPS: March 2, 2021 (fingers crossed)
Monday, February 22 will be a virtual 2-Hour delay day; we began as a 2-Hour delay and morphed into a virtual day due to inclement weather. There will not be transportation for the GJCTC students today.
Senior Night for Boys Varsity Basketball and Varsity Cheerleading will be on Tuesday, February 23. Both events will begin at 7 PM. The basketball game will occur after the Senior Night Activities.
February 15 - 19, 2021
February 18, 2021-
Due to Inclement Weather, The Ferndale Area JSHS will operate virtually. All GJCTC students will attend their shops virtually, as there will not be transportation provided for the day. Lastly, all evening activities and extracurriculars except tutoring are cancelled for this evening. Mandatory tutoring students should still attend virtually.
February 15, 2021-
Due to Inclement Weather, all after school activities are cancelled.
DUE TO COVID-19 PROTOCOL, THE FAJSHS WILL BE CLOSED FOR IN-PERSON INSTRUCTION UP TO AND INCLUDING 2/19/2021
GJCTC students will be virtual until 2/16/2021. A bus schedule will be used again as was previously used during hybrid and remote instruction days.
All students should Zoom into their classes as scheduled and complete assignments as planned through their course instructors.
All activities and extracurriculars held at FAJSHS are cancelled until further notice.
Photographs are once again cancelled, and will be rescheduled for a date at to be determined.
Plans for Prom / Post-Prom and Graduation continue to formalize with details and specific information to come closer to the date to ensure state mandates and social-distancing guidelines are adhered to in any venues being considered. Thank you for your patience!
Grade 7-11 who are coming in for pictures MUST arrive between 7:45 and 8:15.
Grade 12 who are coming in for pictures MUST arrive at 9 am.
Virtual and CPDLF Students can participate in school breakfast / lunch pick-ups:
Ferndale Area Families, Meal pickup is now available for all Ferndale Area students attending Synchronous through Ferndale Area and Ferndale CPDLF Students. Pick up will be available from 3:30-6:30 on Tuesday February 2nd. Please Call Lori McGough at 814-288-5757 x230 or email [email protected] by noon on Tuesday February 2nd to ensure cafeteria staff can prepare the proper number of meals.
January 26 will operate on a 2-Hour Delay Schedule.
SPECIAL ANNOUNCMENT
Picture retakes have been postponed once again due to impending inclement weather; the make-up date is February 1, 2021.
January 25 - 29
Beginning January 25th to full in-person learning K4-12, Monday – Friday. There will be no virtual Fridays. All students are expected to be in school by 7:32 and will resume normal school schedule and procedures.
Spectators are permitted to attend Winter Sports events as per the published procedures and practices.
Upcoming Events:
Strawbridge Photographer Picture Retakes:
Picture Retakes will be held on January 26 for ALL students, faculty, and staff that have not had their photographs taken in the Fall.
PSAT Testing:
All 10th graders will report to school on January 26 for the annual required PSAT Testing.
ASVAB Testing:
All 11th graders will report to school on January 27 for the annual required ASVAB Testing.
January 18 - 22
Mode of Instruction Change:
On January 13th, the board voted to continue in our “current mode of instruction” through January 22nd.
The Jr/Sr high school hybrid schedule will be as follows:
L-Z will attend in-person on January 19 and 21.
A-K will attend in-person on January 20.
All students will attend virtually on January 22.
The board also voted to change our “mode of instruction” beginning January 25th to full in-person learning K4-12, Monday – Friday. There will be no virtual Fridays.
Synchronous learning will still be an option for students who want to remain fully virtual. If the students choose synchronous learning, they must remain there through the 3rdmarking period (March 22nd). Parents or guardians who desire for their child to remain virtual must contact the school office. The deadline for this decision is Wednesday, January 20th. The school board voted to remain in this new “mode of instruction” until further notice.
Athletics:
Upcoming Events:
Strawbridge Photographer Picture Retakes:
Picture Retakes will be held on January 26 for ALL students, faculty, and staff that have not had their photographs taken in the Fall.
PSAT Testing:
All 10th graders will report to school on January 26 for the annual required PSAT Testing.
ASVAB Testing:
All 11th graders will report to school on January 27 for the annual required ASVAB Testing.
January 11 - 15, 2021
ALL GJCTC Students will complete their coursework virtually until 1/19/2020 at which time the students will begin in-person learning at the GJCTC.
PIAA Sports and Extracurricular Activities resumed last week. Check the Athletic Website for practice dates, times, and locations:
When your student is virtual, they are to attend school via Zoom and must be present in each class, including Homeroom.
Remote Learning expectations are to attend each class, be present in both attendance and participation, and follow school rules regarding language, activities, and dress code. Lastly, adhere to your instructor's requests and directives, as well as complete work and turn in via the method that your instructor designates.
Any and all questions should be first directed towards your instructor, and then the Guidance Counselor / Principal.
Thanks for your cooperation and your flexibility.
January 4 - 8, 2021
ALL GJCTC Students will complete their coursework virtually until 1/19/2020 at which time the students will begin in-person learning at the GJCTC.
PIAA Sports and Extracurricular Activities scheduled to resume.
January 4 and 6- Last Names A - K in-person learning
January 5 and 7- Last Names L - Z in-person learning
January 8, 2021- All students virtual (Virtual Friday)
When your student is virtual, they are to attend school via Zoom and must be present in each class, including Homeroom.
Remote Learning expectations are to attend each class, be present in both attendance and participation, and follow school rules regarding language, activities, and dress code. Lastly, adhere to your instructor's requests and directives, as well as complete work and turn in via the method that your instructor designates.
Any and all questions should be first directed towards your instructor, and then the Guidance Counselor / Principal.
Thanks for your cooperation and your flexibility.
December 28, 2020 - January 1, 2021
No School for students for Christmas Break
December 21 - 25, 2020
December 21- Last names L - Z in-person learning
December 22- Last names A - K in-person learning
(2 Hour Early Dismissal)- December 23- Last Names L - Z in-person Learning
December 24 and 25 No School for students for Christmas Break.
December 14 - 18, 2020
Wednesday, December 16 and Thursday, December 17, 2020, school will be virtual due to a Winter Storm predicted to hit our area.
PIAA Sanctioned sports are once again postponed due to a mandate from Governor Tom Wolf until no earlier than Jan 4, 2021.
Please look for emails from Mr. Clawson regarding required paperwork and missing items prior to your approval to participate in sports.
Also, check the website for practice schedules and athletic updates at:
When your student is virtual, they are to attend school via Zoom and must be present in each class, including Homeroom.
Remote Learning expectations are to attend each class, be present in both attendance and participation, and follow school rules regarding language, activities, and dress code. Lastly, adhere to your instructor's requests and directives, as well as complete work and turn in via the method that your instructor designates.
Any and all questions should be first directed towards your instructor, and then the Guidance Counselor / Principal.
Thanks for your cooperation and your flexibility.
December 7 - 11, 2020
Make-up Photographs will NOT be taken 12/8. The photographer will reschedule sometime in late January.
Students will work remotely on 12/7.
Last names A - Z will return to in-person learning on 12/8 and 12/10
Last names L - Z will return to in-person learning on 12/9
All students will be virtual on 12/11 (Friday Virtual Schedule).
When your student is virtual, they are to attend school via Zoom and must be present in each class, including Homeroom.
Remote Learning expectations are to attend each class, be present in both attendance and participation, and follow school rules regarding language, activities, and dress code. Lastly, adhere to your instructor's requests and directives, as well as complete work and turn in via the method that your instructor designates.
Any and all questions should be first directed towards your instructor, and then the Guidance Counselor / Principal.
Thanks for your cooperation and your flexibility.
November 30 - December 4, 2020
No School November 30 for students or staff.
Tuesday, December 1 through Monday, December 7, 2020 will remain virtual remote learning with the return to in-person date still set at December 8, 2020.
December 8, 2020 is also the picture make-up day for our school.
November 23 - 27, 2020
Students will be virtual learning on Monday (11/23), Tuesday (11/24), and Wednesday (11/25- 2 Hour Early Dismissal) . There is No School for Students, Staff, or Faculty on 11/26 through 11/30 for Thanksgiving Holiday).
Virtual Schedule:
November 16 - 20, 2020
Reminder: Picture Make-Up Day will be December 8, 2020
Grades 10-12:
In Person Learning Monday through Thursday; Fridays are virtual
Grades 7-9:
In Person Learning Monday through Thursday; Fridays are virtual
Students must log in to every academic class (Study Halls or Academic Learning Centers are not required) for accountability purposes.
Sports for the Week:
Winter Sports (Boys and Girls Basketball) official start of practice is November 20, 2020.
If you are interested in playing a Winter Sport and you have not spoken to Mr. Clawson, please do so immediately to be able to complete the necessary paperwork.
November 9 - 13, 2020
NO SCHOOL NOVEMBER 11, 2020 IN OBSERVATION OF VETERAN'S DAY
Grades 10-12:
In Person Learning Monday through Thursday; Fridays are virtual
Grades 7-9:
In Person Learning Monday through Thursday; Fridays are virtual
Students must log in to every academic class (Study Halls or Academic Learning Centers are not required) for accountability purposes.
Sports for the Week:
The Ferndale Area Lady Yellowjacket Volleyball Team travels to Homer Center tonight for their District VI playoff game. Ticket codes were given to all players for ticket purchase. Tickets will NOT be sold at the event.
The Varsity Football team will be traveling to Windber this Friday 11/6 at 7pm to battle the Ramblers. CV is having advance ticket sales all week for $4.00 per ticket. Also, tickets at the gate will be $4.00 each. Windber live streams their games on the NFHS network if you would like to watch but cannot attend.
October 26 - October 30, 2020
Monday / Wednesday In-Class Students: A-K
Tuesday/Thursday In-Class Students: L-Z
Friday, October 30 is a scheduled 2-Hour Dismissal for clerical purposes.
October 30 is the end of Quarter 1. All assignments and graded activities are due by this day.
2 Hour Delay Bell Schedule:
Weekly Sports:
There are only two football games scheduled for this week:
The JH Football game will be on Wednesday 10/28, not Thursday 10/29.
Also, CV will host Bishop Guilfoyle next Saturday at 1:00 in Varsity Football.
Bishop McCort decided to forfeit their game vs BG tonight "in the best interest of their players."
October 19 - October 23, 2020
Monday / Wednesday In-Class Students: A-K
Tuesday/Thursday In-Class Students: L-Z
Tuesday, October 20- Senior Night for Varsity Volleyball
Here is some additional information regarding this week's Athletics contests:
1) For the JH/JV/Varsity Volleyball games at Portage on Monday, they are allowing two (2) Family Membersper player to attend the games free of charge. No tickets will be distributed. Live Streaming will be through their school district YouTube Channel.
2) The CV Varsity Football team will have a BYE in the first round of District 6 playoffs this weekend (10/23, 10/24). They will HOST the winner of this weekend's (5) Bishop Guilfoyle / (12) Bishop McCort game on Saturday, Oct 31st at 1:00. Information to purchase these tickets will be released next week once the opponent is determined.
Sports Schedule:
Ferndale Area Athletics (10/19/20 through 10/24/20)
SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHS:
MONDAY OCT 19: SENIORS A-K
TUESDAY OCT 20: SENIORS L-Z
WEDNESDAY OCT 21: UNDERCLASS PHOTOS A-K
THURSDAY OCT 22: UNDERCLASS PHOTOS L-Z
Photo Form:
October 12 - October 16, 2020
October 12- NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS DUE TO PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES
The NHS Induction Ceremony will be held on Sunday, October 18 at 5 PM. Invitations to those being inducted, as well as the current members have been sent out by the advisor, Mrs. Erin Siverd.
The annual Picture Day with our photographer, Strawbridge Studios will be held on October 21 and 22, 2020. Forms were given to your student(s) last week, as well as mailed home to the Ferndale Area CPDLF Extended Campus students. We are looking at two days of pictures for both the Senior students and Underclass-people to facilitate the Hybrid schedule:
WEDNESDAY OCT 21: UNDERCLASS PHOTOS A-K
THURSDAY OCT 22: UNDERCLASS PHOTOS L-Z
Photo Form:
October 6 - October 9, 2020
The JH Football game scheduled for Thursday October 8th vs Blacklick Valley has been cancelled.
Updated Guidance on Indoor / Outdoor Facility Attendance for extracurricular functions:
The final details are being established for the annual Picture Day with our photographer, Strawbridge Studios. We are looking at two days of pictures for both the Senior students and Underclass-people to facilitate the Hybrid schedule:
WEDNESDAY OCT 21: UNDERCLASS PHOTOS A-K
THURSDAY OCT 22: UNDERCLASS PHOTOS L-Z
Photo Form:
September 28 - October 2, 2020
The week starts off with a scheduled Act 80 day for staff's professional development, there is no school for students.
Tuesday and Thursday, students with the last names of A-K will report to school for face-to-face instruction, while students with the last names in the range of L-Z will report to school on Wednesday, September 30 for their face-to face instruction. Friday will remain a virtual learning day for all students.
The final details are being established for the annual Picture Day with our photographer, Strawbridge Studios. We are looking at two days of pictures for both the Senior students and Underclass-people to facilitate the Hybrid schedule:
WEDNESDAY OCT 21: UNDERCLASS PHOTOS A-K
THURSDAY OCT 22: UNDERCLASS PHOTOS L-Z
Photo Form:
Homecoming / Senior Recognition:
The Student Council and their advisor, Mrs. Gwen Gaviola, in conjunction with Mr. Clawson and the booster organizations, are planning Homecoming / Senior Recognition activities for the Fall Activities participants on October 9, 2020 at the Ferndale Area Athletic Fields. Information will be sent home to parents and guardians of Seniors. There will be spectators and guests permitted pending no changes at the state level regarding gatherings.
Vacations
Anyone considering a vacation, please know that the Administration does not recommend vacations during the school year, and will not sign off on vacation forms if vacations are to states on the restricted travel list as published by the Department of Health that can be found here:
A Federal Judge has ruled against Governor Wolf's request for a stay on the pandemic restrictions to include the limits on spectators and fans at indoor and outdoor sporting events:
2 spectators per Volleyball player starting Sept. 24!!
Effective Thursday, Sept. 24, 2020 for Junior High, JV, and Varsity Volleyball:
2 spectators per FASD athlete permitted to attend home games
2 spectators per opposing team athlete permitted to attend our home games
JV and Varsity players will remain in the gym during each other’s games
Fans must remain socially-distanced in the bleachers and keep masks on during the game. Signage will be posted to indicate these requirements.
All spectators who enter the gym will have their temperature taken. If 100.4 or greater, they will step aside and have their temperature taken again in 10-15 minutes. If their temperature is still at least 100.4, the spectator will not be permitted to attend the game.
The final details are being established for the annual Picture Day with our photographer, Strawbridge Studios. We are looking at two days of pictures for both the Senior students and Underclass-people to facilitate the Hybrid schedule:
MONDAY, OCT 19: SENIOR PORTRAITS A-K
TUESDAY, OCT 20: SENIOR PORTRAITS L-Z
WEDNESDAY OCT 21: UNDERCLASS PHOTOS A-K
THURSDAY OCT 22: UNDERCLASS PHOTOS L-Z
Homecoming / Senior Recognition:
The Student Council and their advisor, Mrs. Gwen Gaviola, in conjunction with Mr. Clawson and the booster organizations, are planning Homecoming / Senior Recognition activities for the Fall Activities participants on October 9, 2020 at the Ferndale Area Athletic Fields. Information will be sent home to parents and guardians of Seniors early next week. There will be spectators and guests permitted pending no changes at the state level regarding gatherings.
Vacations
Anyone considering a vacation, please know that the Administration does not recommend vacations during the school year, and will not sign off on vacation forms if vacations are to states on the restricted travel list as published by the Department of Health that can be found here:
Starting September 14, today, students in the A-K cohort attended school in person, while students in the L-Z cohort will either Zoom with their teachers, or engage in other methodology to drive education and curricular materials while still abiding to the hybrid model of instruction.
JV Football will travel to North Star to face the Cougars on September 14, which is a nice opportunity for the younger students to gain valuable game playing experience before playing at the Varsity level.
JV / V Volleyball will play North Star on September 14 for their first game of the season.
Click here to watch or go to either the District Website or the Athletics website and click the "Watch Live Games" link on each page.
This week we start off with a Monday Labor Day off. Students with the last names of A-K will report on Tuesday (9/8) and Thursday (9/10) while students with the last names of L-Z will report Wednesday (9/9) and Friday (9/11). A short, but appropriately chosen message about the historical events of 9/11/2001 was delivered via the Principal on Friday morning to commemorate and remind students for the reason behind the creation of Patriots' Day.
This week the cooperative sports agreements between the Conemaugh Valley Blue Jays and the Ferndale Area Yellow Jackets will have a Senior Night on Friday, September 11, 2020 and the first home Varsity Football Game on Saturday, September 12 at 1 PM. The football sports co-op involves the football players, cheerleaders, and band members. Conemaugh Valley is attempting to provide a streaming service for the games; more information will be available once information is obtained from Conemaugh Valley.
Football:
Go to www.cvk12.org and click on "Watch Live Games" button
This week the JSHS teachers received training on the e-Hallpass system, which eliminates the handling of traditional paper planners and hall passes. Within a few weeks of trial and error, as well as additional training, we will be fluent in this new technology that is based off of the student and teachers' technology devices.
The final details are being established for the annual Picture Day with our photographer, Strawbridge Studios. We are looking at two days of pictures for both the Senior students and Underclass-people to facilitate the Hybrid schedule:
MONDAY, OCT 19: SENIOR PORTRAITS A-K
TUESDAY, OCT 20: SENIOR PORTRAITS L-Z
WEDNESDAY OCT 21: UNDERCLASS PHOTOS A-K
THURSDAY OCT 22: UNDERCLASS PHOTOS L-Z
The Student Council and their advisor, Mrs. Gwen Gaviola, in conjunction with Mr. Clawson and the booster organizations, are planning Homecoming / Senior Recognition activities for the Fall Activities participants on October 9, 2020 at the Ferndale Area Athletic Fields. Information will be disseminated as it becomes available.
Instructional Model Starting September 14, 2020:
Starting Monday, September 14, 2020, the cohort list of last names (A-K/L-Z) will follow a pattern to keep everyone on a schedule and to make it easier for parents/guardians and students to follow a set schedule each week. That information is located here:
Here is an excerpt of the letter affecting JSHS students:
Starting September 14, we will move to a new schedule for students and keep this schedule through the end of the first marking period on October 30.
Grade 7-12 students-will come to school 2 days per week and learn on line from home 3 days per week in a hybrid instructional model starting September 14. Please refer to the referenced calendars for September and October by clicking the link below:
Welcome to the weekly Principal's message. I hope to post information here every week about what we are doing and what your students are doing.
The faculty and staff have been busy preparing their rooms for the maximum extent of social distancing that we could establish, as well as removing furniture and furnishings that were not necessary to provide as much space as possible. The staff and faculty have also been preparing online content, training on various technological platforms, and working together to ensure that we are as ready as possible for a hybrid mode of instruction. Staff have been working with other staff members to improve our skills in Schoology, Zoom, Good Notes, and other applications.
So far this week, August 31 through September 3 (as we have no school on September 4), your students have been receiving instruction in the various new technology components that we will use, such as Schoology, Zoom, and other platforms that they will access through their in-person education and remote virtual education.
The schedule for the first quarter is to conduct a hybrid model for the students who will be broken into cohorts by last name; A-K and L-Z are the two cohorts.
There is a calendar of when each cohort comes to school, and when each cohort will attend classes virtually through remote learning technologies.
In other news, our Fall Sports participants are playing volleyball, golf and have been enable to participate in soccer (through a co-op with Greater Johnstown SD). Additionally, the football players, the band, and the cheerleaders are practicing and participating in a co-op with the Conemaugh Valley SD. Through the combinations of teams and organizations, we have around 40 football players, 80 band members, and 40 cheerleaders.
We reckon to be a force to be reckoned with!!
Thank you for your patience and your cooperation as we navigate through the pandemic planning and the released orders and recommendations from the state organizations. We value the importance that you have on your student's education, and we realize that planning and being prepared are not only for the students, but for the parents when dealing with issues and responsibilities outside of school.
Thank you for entrusting your child's education to the Ferndale Area JSHS; I do not take that responsibility lightly, nor do I believe that your students deserve less than the best possible education that we can provide.
Thank you,
Travis Robison, Principal, Ferndale Area Junior Senior High School Principal
