Dear Mustang Families:
Many staff members and students have been following the Artemis journey to the moon and back with great interest. At Friday’s staff meeting, teachers reflected on the power of teamwork and the importance of building positive momentum. We invite our families into this shared reflection. In their first words after returning from the moon, the Artemis II astronauts spoke with deep emotion about the power of teamwork, gratitude, and the unbreakable bonds formed through shared challenge. Seeing Earth from so far away gave them a renewed appreciation for being human and for the people who support us along the way. Their reflections remind us that perseverance, connection, and courage are at the heart of meaningful learning and growth. The words of Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen capture the same sense of joy we feel as we watch your child face challenges and persevere toward their goals. You may wish to watch this video together as a family: Artemis II Crew Goes Fully Emotional in First Words After Moon Return.
Your Mustang Crew is here to support your child every step of the way.
Gentle reminder
SJAM School Council and John Diefenbaker School Council have coordinated an opportunity for families to connect with Ms. Laura Hack, CBE School Trustee on Tuesday April 14 at the John Diefenbaker High School Council meeting (6:30 PM start).
Mustang Talent Show
Thank you to the many students who bravely took a risk and tried out for the Mustang Talent Show. Ms. Greenham and Ms. Ralph led the selection of Finalists who will perform at lunch on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in the Main Gym. Students attending the Talent Show as spectators are expected to be respectful, supportive, and attentive to audience members. This means remaining seated, following staff directions, keeping voices appropriate, and showing encouragement through positive applause. Spectator behaviour will reflect Mustang pride, kindness, and respect for the courage of all performers. Students who struggle to meet these expectations will be asked to leave and engage in a different activity in the school. Performers will be assessed based on the marking rubric in last week's message.
Student Study Guides & Digital Resources
We are excited to share a special offer for educational resources through a new partnership between EducationMatters. This is a great opportunity to get supplementary resources to support your students’ learning this school year, especially in preparation for diplomas and final exams. Optional ordering: SJAM Fundraisers
Athletics - Mr. Jones
Badminton: Practices continue this week as teams are taking form. Thank you for encouraging your child to take a healthy risk and come out for the team. Coaches have had to make some grueling decisions due to the number of excellent athletes that have come out in each grade. Go Mustangs!
13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
7 AM: Gr 7 3 PM: Gr 9 | 7 AM: Gr 8 3 PM: Gr 9 |
3 PM: Gr 7 |
3 PM: Gr 8 | 7 AM: FITCLUB |
Community Events
Calgary Transit Get On Board
Registration Now Open: Calgary Transit offers travel training summer camps for individuals with disabilities aged 15-21. The two-day camps are designed to help students gain independence and the skills needed to use transit. Spots are limited. For more information and to register, please visit the Calgary Transit website - Link: Calgary Transit Travel Training
Homework Helpers Program
Support junior high students with Math and Science tutoring.
- Tuesdays & Thursdays | 3:15–5:15 PM
- Sir John A. Macdonald School (Learning Commons)
- homeworkhelpers@ymcacalgary.org
Crochet Club
- Fridays | 7:00–9:00 PM
- Thornhill Aquatic & Recreation Centre
- Apr 17 | May 1 & 15 | Jun 12 & 26
- Ages 6+ with caregiver | FREE
- Registration required: christina.buchan@calgary.ca
Family Games Night (Free)
- Apr 24 | May 22 | Jun 19 | 7:00–9:00 PM
- Thornhill Aquatic & Recreation Centre
- Registration required: Text 403‑710‑4229 | elyssebyyc@gmail.com
- Spring Sport Lessons – Sport Hub (City of Calgary): Sport programs for ages 6–17, with equipment provided and Fair Entry fee assistance available.
- https://www.calgary.ca/SportHubLessons
Family Storytime | Firefighter Storytime | Healthy Living programs
- Transparent Language – learn 140+ languages online
- https://www.calgarylibrary.ca/your-library/locations/umbach
- Family Resource & Parenting Supports
Cross‑Cultural Parenting Program (Virtual)
- Thursdays, Apr 9 – May 14 | 9:30–11:30 AM
- Open to immigrant & refugee parents/grandparents
- Register via QR code or closertohome.com
- 403‑615‑8598 | sunsworth@closertohome.com
North Central Family Resource Network (Closer to Home)
- 3‑176 Bedford Dr NE | 403‑543‑0555
- https://closertohome.com/north-central-family-resource-network/
- Indigenous‑Led Learning, Reflection & Community Events
Sharing Food, Sharing Knowledge – Indigenous‑Led Community Gathering
Join us for a welcoming gathering centered on traditional Indigenous food, stories, and learning together. Led by Leslie Bull of Kokoms Bannock Kitchen, this free event focuses on relationship‑building, cultural knowledge sharing, and community connection.
- Friday, April 24 | 1:00–3:00 pm
- Georgina Thomson Building (772 Northmount Dr NW)
- FREE event | Everyone welcome
- Registration required: Register with Tina @ christina.buchan@calgary.ca