Newsletter 2/2/24
“I produce high-quality work and practice humility and respect for others”
From “Our Commitments”
Wyatt F puts his artistic skills to work as he practices his cursive.
What a beautiful week we’ve had! I personally felt the whole school sigh a sigh of relief as we spread our tarps and blankets outside once again and did what we do best - learn outdoors. Writing with the sun on your face just hits different, don’t you think? I am proud of how far we’ve come this year and how we’ve persevered. The kids are demonstrating more independence and a willingness to complete work without (as much) supervision. It’s a beautiful thing.
We’ve also been discussing how to appreciate and respect each other better this week. Mrs. McKenzie’s class did a great activity that reinforced these principles and it only cost a box of tissues - check out the video on the FB Family page if you haven’t seen it yet.
In Morning Welcome and Chapel this week we learned The Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) and practiced how Jesus instructed us to pray: Thanks - God’s Will - Ask - Forgive - Avoid Sin. We also sang Matt Maher’s “The Lord’s Prayer” to help reinforce our practice.
Re-enrollment report
I am happy to report that every family has decided to return next year! WOW! We are humbled and full of gratitude as we continue to walk the path before us. BIG things are coming! There are 150 active inquiries for next year already. We have an abundance problem.
Scholarships and LEARNS
ACE Scholarship applications open Monday, Feb. 5th at 8 am and close on tax day! You will apply (or re-apply) using the same FACTS financial aid portal that we use for private JA scholarships. There is a separate application for ACE this year but there is no additional fee. This is an income-dependent program that pays up to $4,500 per child. You will need to have filed your 2023 taxes to apply. ACE applications are a part of our FACTS Financial Aid application accessed through Family Portal > Financial or via this direct link: https://online.factsmgt.com/register/4PKQH/instlogin/reg-message
Reform Alliance is an income-dependent program available to those who don’t receive an EFA or to kids with disabilities (they can also receive an EFA). You can apply for both ACE and Reform. I will let you know when applications are open for 2024-25.
LEARNS funding (EFA) open in late March for new applications. The eligibility criteria are the same as last year with the addition of veterans/law enforcement/first responders (includes volunteer firefighters) and students who attended a D-rated school this year. You will not need to re-submit an application if you currently receive EFA. They will reach out mid-March about your participation next year. ALL students are eligible for an EFA for the 2025-26 school year.
Joshua Academy scholarships will be awarded based on Financial Aid application information. You will need to complete a new application for next year.
ANNOUNCEMENTS!
As per our student/family handbook, we do not allow birthday/celebration treats to be brought in to school. For Valentine’s Day, kids will make cards in class so please do not send in store bought valentines. We’ll make it a special day for them!
Applications for new families are OPEN. Direct friends to our website to get on the interest list today! https://joshua-academy.org.
WHAT’S COMING UP!
Feb 7 (Wed) - Family lunch, 12-12:45 pm. Each child can invite 1 family member to eat lunch with them. You may bring your child lunch from anywhere you choose!
Feb 9 (Fri) - Family chapel. All family members are welcome to attend every Friday, 8-8:30 am.
Feb. 12 (Mon) - Field trip to Arts on Main in Van Buren. Permission slip is available on the JA App.
Feb 19 (Mon) - President’s Day - NO SCHOOL/Teacher professional development (with Amy Imbody In D.C!)