
Keanan RaShad Berry, the September Optimist Student of the Month, continues to shine both in and out of the classroom. Hailing from Fredericksburg, VA, Keanan is Co-President of the Drama Club and Treasurer of the National Honor Society, where his leadership is evident. As an active member of the Key Club, he’s always giving back to his school community.
Keanan’s talents have earned him recognition, including ranking 2nd as Bass I in the VCDA’s All-District Choir (2023) and 2nd best actor in the region at the VHSL One Act Competition (2022).
He also serves on the Day of Service Planning Committee and as a Writing Center Coach. With plans to attend a 4-year college to study Political Science and Musical Theater, Keanan’s future is as bright as his past accomplishments.
#OptimistStudentOfTheMonth #FutureLeader #StudentSpotlight #DramaClub #NationalHonorSociety #KeyClub #CommunityService



UPCOMING Parent Trainings from PEATC & VDOE
We've highlighted options below, however, feel free to click this link for more information. https://www.fxbgschools.us/article/1818837
There are a number of upcoming parent training opportunities for families provided by the Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC) and the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).
Transition University: October 10 - December 4, 2024. Transition University is a free five-session self-paced online series to help parents/guardians navigate the transition process for their school-aged child and prepare for the adult world.
IEP University: November 4 - November 25, 2024- PEATC, in collaboration with VDOE, has developed IEP University (IEPU) to help provide families and professionals with accurate and useful information about IEP development and meetings.
Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) Online Self-Paced Training: November 4 - November 25, 2024- PEATC, in collaboration with the VDOE, offers this self-paced SEAC training aimed at helping SEAC members understand the role of the local Special Education Advisory Committee in Virginia and build a more efficient and effective advisory committee. The online training will take approximately four hours, and a certificate of completion will be provided for all complete the training.
Building Strong Parent Advocates: November 4 - November 25, 2024- The Building Strong Parent Advocates training provides information to help families build a solid foundation to understand the special education process while empowering them to be their child's best advocate.


Don't miss College Night at the Spotsylvania Mall TONIGHT! Join us from 6:00-8:00 pm, there will be over 80 colleges in attendance, so you don't want to miss this opportunity!
It’s a great opportunity to meet with college representatives from several universities.


Families, just a reminder that starting Monday, October 21, with the impending Cowan Blvd closure, please expect delays. We expect 3-4 buses to experience additional travel time for drop-off and pick-up. Parents also should plan accordingly knowing Cowan Blvd will be closed. Be on the lookout for more information regarding specific bus routes.


This past Saturday, our incredible JMHS DECA members came together to make a powerful impact through their DECA Day of Service!
In collaboration with the Rappahannock Area Community Services Board (RACSB), our volunteers assembled a whopping 3,000 kits to accompany Narcan and took part in a landscaping beautification project.
RACSB plays a critical role in supporting mental health, recovery, treatment, and wellness for residents of Planning District 16, and we are so proud to contribute to their mission.
Thank you to our amazing volunteers for your dedication to the community! #DECA #DayOfService #CommunityImpact #MentalHealthMatters #JMHSCommunity #RACSB



Wishing a heartfelt Happy National Principals Month to the incredible leaders of Fredericksburg City Public Schools! Your unwavering commitment to "Excellence in Education" ensures every student is given the chance to thrive. Thank you for your dedication, care, and the lasting impact you make on our students and community. #ThankAPrincipal #NationalPrincipalsMonth


DECA and Key Club members teamed up for Friends of the Rappahannock’s Big Fall Clean-Up this past weekend! These hardworking students spent the day making a positive impact by cleaning up our local environment and helping to keep the Rappahannock River beautiful.
Thank you to everyone who volunteered their time and energy for this important cause! Together, we’re making a difference in our community.
#BigFallCleanUp #FriendsOfTheRappahannock #KeyClub #DECA #CommunityService #JMHS




The James Madison University rep visited JMHS last week! 🎓 Students had a great opportunity to learn about JMU’s programs, campus life, and the admissions process. Whether they were considering becoming a Duke or just exploring options, it was a valuable chance to get all their questions answered.
Thanks to JMU for stopping by and sharing what it means to be a Duke! 💜💛
#JMUVisit #FutureDukes #CollegeBound #JMHS #Explore


A representative from Virginia Commonwealth University, VCU, visited our school last week. It was a great opportunity to learn about VCU’s programs, campus life, and application process. Whether you were already considering VCU or just exploring options, we hope you got valuable info and had your questions answered!
#VCU #CollegeRepVisit #SeniorYear #FutureRams #CollegeBound #ClassOf2024



2024 Special Education Parent Involvement Survey
All parents of school-aged children and youth with disabilities who receive special education services are encouraged to complete the Virginia Department of Education's annual Parent Involvement Survey.
The survey will remain open through December 13, 2024.
English Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JCVG27W
Spanish Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H92X3V3


Fredericksburg City Public Schools (FCPS) is pleased to announce the launch of a new SpeakUp for Safety tipline for students in grades 6 through 12. This resource allows students to report confidentially concerns of bullying, threats, and/or other safety issues via email, text, or a phone call. A monthly reminder will be emailed to students including the phone number as well as more information on how the tipline works.


Bullying is more than just a problem students experience in school; it is a serious issue that can have long-term effects on mental health.
Did you know?
• 1 in 5 people have experienced bullying
• Bullying increases the risk of depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts
• The effects of bullying can last well into adulthood - impacting self-esteem, relationships and overall well-being.
Let’s work together to create a kinder and more compassionate school environment!
• If you or someone you know is experiencing bullying, speak up! Tell a trusted adult like your teacher, school counselor, or principal.


This morning’s Senior Sunrise was a beautiful and unforgettable experience for the Class of 2025! Gathering together to watch the sunrise was a perfect way to reflect on all the memories we’ve shared and the excitement that lies ahead. Here’s to making the most of our senior year, seniors! #Sunrise #ClassOf2025 #MakingMemories #SeniorYear #JMHS



"Happy National Principals Month to my fellow principals! Your commitment is truly inspiring. Proud to be part of this amazing group dedicated to our students and communities."
Laura Dove, Director of Preschool Programs
#ThankAPrincipal #NationalPrincipalsMonth


This evening, Monday, October 7, 2024, promptly at 7:30 PM, at James Monroe High School, the Fredericksburg City School Board will formally recognize and honor living legend Dr. Gladys West, for whom our new elementary school is being named.
In a historic move, the Fredericksburg City Schools Board chose on August 5, 2024, to name the city's third K-5 building Gladys West Elementary School. This the first school in the nation to recognize this great woman and her important achievements.
Join us in person or watch the School Board meeting live.
👉https://www.regionalwebtv.com/fredsb


Here's the JM Library National Bullying Prevention Month display! Let's work together to spread kindness, stand up against bullying, and create a supportive environment for all. Stop by the library to learn more about how you can make a difference! #NationalBullyingPreventionMonth #SpreadKindness #JMLibrary #StandAgainstBullying


It’s Instructional Coach Day! Meet Stephanie Teri, one of our incredible instructional coaches.
Here’s a bit about her: She has 3 daughters; 2 have graduated from JMHS, and her youngest is a senior at JMHS this year. Stephanie loves road-tripping and spent 28 days this summer traveling through 5 states with her family.
We’re grateful for Stephanie’s dedication and passion. Let’s give her a big shoutout today!
#InstructionalCoachDay #MeetTheCoach #EducationExcellence #RoadTripAdventures #FamilyFirst #JMHS


Happy Instructional Coach Day! Let’s meet one of our amazing educators, Tara D. Lewis!
Fun Fact: At one point, Tara considered majoring in theater and even worked as an actor for a children’s theater company in Richmond!
Her passion for storytelling and creativity shines through in everything she does, making her an incredible asset to our students and school community!
#InstructionalCoachDay #MeetOurStaff #TheaterToClassroom #InspiringEducators #TaraDLewis #EducationJourney #SchoolCommunity


What a day yesterday! The JMHS Homecoming Court for 2024 was announced, and we’re excited to introduce the amazing students representing each class!
🎓Freshmen Court
- Sarai Walley- Aspiring to attend VCU and join the Air Force!
- Dallas Wilson- Future Olympic athlete in the making!
🎓Sophomore Court
- Tieon’Zhae Cole- Plans to attend an HBCU and major in Fine Arts!
- Johnathan Hough- Dreaming of the Naval Academy and flying as a Marine Corps pilot!
- Anastasia Payne- A future pediatric doctor combining her love for sports and medicine!
🎓Junior Court
- Taylor Adgerson- Committed to becoming a pediatric oncologist!
- Aaron Berrios Ramirez- On his way to owning a mechanic shop and playing college soccer!
- Amber Coppage- Crime Scene Investigator in the making, attending UNC Wilmington!
- Christian Ferebee- Future Virginia Tech grad, ready to buy his mom a house!
- Leah Deane-Byrd- Hoping to become a pediatrician and college volleyball player at Texas Christian University!
- Johnathan Lee- Aspiring healthcare worker and biology major!
🎓Senior Court
- Keanan Berry- Studying political science and musical theatre!
- Betzy Lopez Guerrero- Future educator and music lover!
- Van Boylan- STEM career in sight, heading to Virginia Tech!
- Gia McDermott- Dreams of wealth, architecture, and perhaps a private jet!
- Jeb Brough- Future top golfer in the world!
- Ryleigh Lucier- Passionate about Wildlife Biology and heading to WVU!
- Jeferson Vela Hernandez- Drama enthusiast heading to NOVA and George Mason!
- Amiyah McNeil- Future owner of a corporate law firm!
👑 And the winners are...
- Homecoming Princess: Leah Deane
- Homecoming Prince: Christian Ferebee
- Homecoming King: Jeb Brough
- Homecoming Queen: Betzy Lopez Guerrero
Congratulations to all our court members and winners! Don't forget, the Homecoming Dance starts tonight at 8:00 pm – see you there!
#JMHSHomecoming2024 #JayemPride #HomecomingCourt #Congrats #winners





🏈HOMECOMING FOOTBALL GAME🏈
Join us LIVE in-person or LIVE video streaming via www.regionalwebtv.com, COX channel 18 and 83, or Verizon channel 41.
