In today's episode, we're taking a closer look at the elective options available to JAMS students - a topic that can feel mysterious and confusing to parents! We kick things off with an overview of all elective options for each grade level (1:09). Next, you'll hear from four of our electives teachers: Jennifer Joyce who teaches Art and Advanced Art (4:43), Jener Miranda, our Journalism teacher (7:33); Spanish teacher Florencia Lanus (19:05); and Cori Goldberg, our Yearbook teacher (23:16). A big shout-out to the students who shared their thoughts about their elective experiences with us. Whether your student already has their schedule figured out or is still exploring options, this episode is a great resource as class selection season gets underway.

Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!

With a new smartphone/device policy coming to SMMUSD middle schools this year, many families have questions. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Frank Dussan, Director of Student Services for SMMUSD, about the district’s updated approach to managing student smartphone use during the school day. Dr. Dussan shares his perspective on students’ access to smartphones, the goals behind the new policy, and how SMMUSD is thinking long-term about creating learning environments with fewer digital distractions and more opportunities for student connection, engagement, and focus.

Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!

Curious about the JAMS PTSA? This episode will fill you in on our school’s Parent Teacher Student Association! We talk with JAMS PTSA President Aimee Koeplin (1:27) about the purpose and role of the PTSA and how it supports teachers, students, and families through events, programs, and more. We also chat with Lucy Atwood (13:45), manager of the JAMS Student Store, to learn how parents keep the store running every day at lunchtime throughout the school year. This episode is a great listen for anyone interested in getting involved or discovering how the PTSA makes a difference at JAMS.

Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!