Dear JACS Community,
As I reflect on my first 60 days as the Director of Joplin Area Catholic Schools, I am filled with gratitude for the warm welcome and support I have received from all of you. From the start, it has been clear that our system is not just a place of learning but also of a strong faith where Christ is at the center of all we do.
Our theme for this year, Grounded in Faith, Cultivating Knowledge, resonates deeply with the mission of Catholic education. It is our shared faith that strengthens us, and with that strength, we've already achieved some exciting milestones. Whether through our recent events such as the Back to School Skate Night and the Fall Sports Kickoff, or the ongoing support for our new initiatives like the Drone Zone in our STEM Classroom, new elementary playground equipment coming soon, or the new look of our Warrior bus, your involvement has led to positive improvements through our system.
As we look forward, one focus will be on fostering a deeper sense of community rooted in our Catholic values. We are called to be the hands and feet of Christ, and this year, we will be placing a strong emphasis on increasing family involvement and creating a culture of volunteering. Our families are the heartbeat of our system and I encourage each of you to engage more deeply with the life of our JACS community. Whether through volunteering, attending events, or supporting new and existing initiatives, your involvement is crucial to our success. Together, we can create an environment where faith, learning, and service thrive.
In this same spirit, we will be concentrating on strengthening our community engagement, creating meaningful connections, and deepening our relationships with community partners. Our efforts will be directed toward enhancing enrollment growth and securing financial support, ensuring that the JACS Legacy continues in our community for generations to come.
In addition, we will be facilitating conversations about our facilities and the need for campus improvements. It’s a year of positive change, and I believe that with prayerful discernment and your support, we can make strides in creating the best environment for our students to grow in both faith and knowledge.
The momentum we’ve built in these first 60 days is just the beginning. Guided by the Holy Spirit, I am committed to keeping that energy alive throughout the year, ensuring that our system continues to grow in faith, education, and community. It is a true honor to serve each of you and your families. I look forward to all that we accomplish together this school year.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our schools. Let us move forward in faith, knowing that with God in our hearts, all things are possible.
In Christ’s Peace,
Jess Sickman