14 minute read
Development
The John H. Weston, Jr. Golf & Tennis Center
When students return to campus for the 2022-23 school year, the John H. Weston, Jr. Golf & Tennis Center will be ready for action. The 3,000 square foot facility will boast golf and tennis locker rooms, two Trackman Golf Simulators, a putting green, restrooms, coaches’ offices, and a spectacular view from the covered front porch overlooking the eight new tennis courts.
The Center was made possible due to a generous donation from John H. Weston, Jr. He is the Chairman and CEO of Capital City Residential Health Care and serves as the current Tennessee President of the National Association of Dually Diagnosed (TN-NADD). He grew up in Gary, Indiana, is a Ball State University graduate, and a member of Kappa Alpha Psi. John and his sister, Elizabeth Dixon-Tunstill, have been a part of the USJ family for four years. John’s son, Dyson, is in third grade. Elizabeth’s children, Ariel, Aaren, and Jaxon, are in eleventh, tenth, and third grades, respectively.
When asked about his investment in USJ, John stated, “When the Imagine More Capital Campaign plans were shared with me, I took time to decide where I wanted to invest my time and energy. After much thought, it became clear that contributing to this project was something that I felt led to do. Although I cannot see the full details now, I have faith that this center will bless not only my family but future generations to come. I feel fortunate to be able to leave behind a legacy that will benefit many.”
Fund for Excellence Teleparty Sees Another Successful Year
USJ students participated in a Fund For Excellence party on November 15 at Hub City Brewing. Fundraising is not an easy task, and the University School of Jackson is proud of our students for their dedication and perseverance.
At a separate fundraising drive on November 9, parents and alumni joined together at Hub City Brewing to raise $110,000 for the Fund for Excellence.
The kindness and generosity displayed by our donors helped make both events successful. Your generosity helps support essential programs and needs that are not covered by standard tuition dollars.
Imagining More in 2022 - The Path Forward
For more than three years, the USJ campus has been a hub of transition or TRANSFORMATION! The Imagine More Capital Campaign was launched in February of 2019 and since that time, 14 new projects have been completed on our campus with more to come as we move through 2022 and beyond.
From playgrounds that are, without a doubt, second to none in the region, to improved campus traffic circulation, from a state of the art Lady Bruins Field house to artificial turf and enhancements to Carlock Stadium, and from the first pitch in our brand new Overton Stadium to the eight new tennis courts and a golf and tennis center, USJ families have “Imagined More” for their children and their grandchildren and through their efforts have transformed the USJ campus from a 2016 vision to a modern reality!
To date, more than $6 million has been raised for the new campus features. Parents, grandparents, alumni, and friends have heeded the call and dug deep to support the campaign. However, more work remains as we chart the Path Forward!
In the coming months, work will begin on a much-needed turn lane at the intersection of the Upper School and Lower School Road (the main road into campus). The new lane will greatly improve Lower School carpool traffic flow for dropoff and pick-up. Additionally, the Upper School drop-off area will be defined and separated from student and faculty parking, creating a safer more efficient space for car and pedestrian traffic. Also, in the days ahead sidewalks (pedestrian flow) will continue to be a priority. With each completed and ongoing project (playgrounds, tennis courts, etc. sidewalks have been built into the plan. This summer, the Upper and Lower Schools will be completely connected with sidewalks and as projects progress, every destination point on campus will be accessible with sidewalks. The fall Friday nights of walking in the grass or the street… are thankfully numbered.
As we look at what’s ahead for 2023 and beyond: new parking will be added where the old tennis courts were, a drop-off area at the football fieldhouse will be added, a new entrance to our sports facilities will be erected, and continued focus on safety and security for our students and all visitors to campus will be a priority.
USJ still needs your help to ensure the Path Forward. Any size gift moves the needle – it all matters! In the end, it has always been parents and grandparents who wanted more for their children who have built USJ. This was true in 1970, 1987, 1998, 2004, 2019, and today. And please know that tuition dollars are not used for any capital projects. If you’d like to hear more details about the Path Forward, please contact Chief Development Officer Russ Ellis at rellis@usjbruins.org.
MENTORING THE FUTURE
When University School of Jackson junior Ijeoma Oleru noticed an opportunity to help younger Bruins, she worked with school faculty to develop a peer-to-peer mentoring program. The Study Group pairs high school students with Middle School students in an effort to provide not only academic tutoring but also to help bridge the gap between middle and high school.
“When I was a sophomore during the spring, I tutored a sixth-grader, but it was just me on my own because during the pandemic we didn’t really have any clubs or groups or anything. So I just did it on my own and I really liked it,” Oleru said.
Oleru wanted to get more students involved and decided to create a school mentoring and tutoring program between Middle School and Upper School students. The program has grown to include 31 Upper School students and 17 Middle School students.
Before Upper School students can participate, they are required to complete a tutoring 101 session and a mentoring session. Each Upper School student is then assigned to a Middle School student, and they work together on either Tuesday mornings or Thursday afternoons for 30 minutes. Some Middle School students alternate between two Upper School students each week due to the large number of Upper School students who are in the program.
“I think it helps make Upper School less scary because you kind of find a friend in somebody who is much older, and then you see that they’re not that much different. They’ve just matured and they’ve learned different organizational and study skills as they’ve gotten older. So, hopefully, during this program they can start learning that from a younger age and it can help them,” Oleru said.
The Study Group works with students on all subjects, helping with their homework and developing effective study habits. It also places an emphasis on the mentoring side of the program and aims to build confidence in students.
Although Middle School students benefit academically and socially from these relationships, Upper School students are also improving social and leadership skills. The program is already seeing improved grades and study habits from Middle School students.
“We work on building relationships between the mentor and the mentee and teaching the Middle Schoolers things like organizational skills,” said Oleru. “I worked with a student last quarter who initially struggled with organization. After working with her for a series of weeks, I watched as her organizational skills grew. Her binders became more organized, and I also taught her how to organize her locker in a way that aligned with her class schedule.”
“I have a really good relationship with both of my mentors, and I think it’s just easy to have a good relationship because everyone’s nice and you don’t feel pressured, and it has helped improve my grades and my study habits for sure,” said eighth-grader Maggie Norris.
Although the group has an academic focus, the Upper School kids do try to keep some activities light and fun including bringing goody bags for the Middle School students and hosting a Christmas Party with snacks and refreshments to wish the Middle School students good luck on their exams.
Teachers say the amount of planning, work and follow through by Oleru has been unparalleled.
“As the faculty sponsor for Study Group, it has been very rewarding watching the Upper School students mature throughout the year with their mentee,” said Shannon Whisenant. “In the beginning, everyone was cautious. I have had the pleasure of watching the relationships grow, and with that - confidence. We have some real naturals when it comes to working with students. One student in particular jumped right on in and started with self-assurance. She is a born teacher. One of my favorite parts of the Study Group is watching the Middle School students light up when they see their partner. The relationship between the two is such a positive for both of them. Middle School and Upper School can be filled with ups and downs and it is nice to know someone cares about you and that they are there to help. This goes for the Upper School students as well. I can not say enough about how responsible the Upper School students have been. They always show up or have a substitute arranged ahead of time. I am so proud of them. I have also heard from several parents how the program was such a positive for their Middle School students and how it gave them support. One parent even hoped her daughter could continue the program in Upper School.”
Due to its success, the Study Group program has been formally recognized by the Student Government Association, making it an official club at the school that will continue after Oleru graduates.
Oleru was nominated and selected to receive a Jefferson Award for her work with the Study Group program. The Jefferson Awards honor community champions who are “ordinary people doing extraordinary things without expectation of recognition.” The awards are given at both national and local levels. Oleru was the youngest recipient of the award this year.
- IJEOMA OLERU -
USJ Upper, Middle, and Lower School students celebrated homecoming week in September through a variety of activities including the football game, alumni tailgate, themed dress days, parade, banner displays, homecoming court selections, and a choir performance.
HOMECOMING COURT REPRESENTATIVES: Homecoming King & Queen: John Dougan & Lilly Mitchell Senior Representatives: Jon Alex Campbell, John Dougan, Steele Haynes, James Mitchell, Eli Robinson, Blair Driver, Laney Haynes, Mae Howell, Elle Jerge, and Lilly Mitchell Junior Representatives: Carley Hays, Berkeley Pettigrew, Abe Stonecipher, and Lilly Kate Varino Sophomore Representatives: Lexi Krenis, Preston Miller, Amelia Moore, and Jack Wilkerson Freshman Representatives: Catherine Bell, Winn Crook, Olivia Welch, and Brison Wiggins
School Spirit Activities Delight All Ahead of Thanksgiving Break
From toddlers to fifth grade, Lower School students were thrilled to participate in one of USJ’s newest traditions, the Turkey Trot. On November 23, classes were staggered throughout the day and took turns running or walking a lap around the Lower School. While having fun, the little turkey trotters raised more than $745 for Samaritan’s Purse! Way to go, Bruins!
Additionally, Regina Sills’ class created Thanksgiving parade floats and were able to showcase their masterpieces to other classes in a hall parade. The Santa parade float was a student favorite.
Finally, USJ’s youngest pilgrims and Native Americans enjoyed a Thanksgiving feast in class complete with the traditional favorites our country was founded on- Chick-Fil-A, string cheese, and veggie straws.
One of the most cherished traditions at USJ for students, faculty, and parents are the themed days in the Lower School to mark attendance achievements with our youngest Bruins.
This year, Jr. K celebrated the 50th day of school with a ‘50s themed parade and sock hop. Kindergarten celebrated the 101st day of school with Cruella and her 101 dalmations. Second grade students wore themed attire on 2-2-22 to celebrate being in 2nd grade on “Twos Day.”
Excitement Fills the Halls as the Holidays Approach
There’s nothing quite like the magic of Christmas through a child’s eyes. To add to the fun, the Lower School hosted a Christmas Spirit Week December 13-16 before the holiday break. The theme on Monday was “Have a Holly Jolly Christmas,” and students were encouraged to wear their favorite Christmas attire. On Tuesday, students wore pajamas for “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas.” On Wednesday, USJ’s favorite villain, The Grinch, stirred up mischief around campus, and students dressed as the Grinch or a Whoville citizen. On Thursday, students wore dress up Christmas attire, and many enjoyed special treats and parties to celebrate the last day before break.
Lower School Bruins Experience Friday Night Lights
In September, almost 400 students from kindergarten to fifth grade performed for the annual halftime show at Kirkand Field in Carlock Stadium. The stadium was packed for a fantastic show made possible by music teachers Elizabeth Atkins and Leslie Scott. Thank you to the USJ teachers and students for your hard work and devotion.
The annual Little Bruin Cheer Performance was held October 22. Students participated in three days of cheer camp and showed their new skills off at the half time show.
Students Develop Leadership Skills and Explore New Interests in 4-H Club
In 4-H programs, kids and teens complete hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture, and civic engagement in a positive environment where they receive guidance from adult mentors and are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles.
At USJ, 4-H is a year-long program with more than 60 students participating in fourth grade and 75 students participating in fifth grade. Students meet once a month at school for 45 minutes. During this time, students work on projects designed to teach specific life skills and help the community.
“Participation in 4-H benefits students because it allows them the opportunity to be in a club that encourages members to learn and serve others,” said fourth grade teacher Michelle Boykin. “It activates members to develop their head, heart, hands, and health. The club is a great opportunity to learn new skills, to be a leader in your club, and to respect and cooperate with others.”
Leadership roles in each class include president, vice-president, secretary, song leader, and service-learning chairman.
Each month, 4-H club members participate in a new contest that encourages different life skills. Examples of contests include stitching and sewing, making decorative crafts or ornaments, baking, cooking, decorating, arts and crafts, etc.
Finally, students assign a service project leader and pick a new community service project each month. Previous projects included collecting items for RIFA, securing donations for the Animal Care Center, making cards for patients at the Kirkland Cancer Center and retirement homes, recycling items within the community, and sponsoring children from the Exchange Club Carl Perkins Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse at Christmas.
4-H is America’s largest youth development organization— empowering nearly six million young people with the skills to lead for a lifetime. It is represented in all 95 counties in Tennessee. As a 4-H member in Madison County, you join more than 3,000 boys and girls in approximately 110 organized clubs.
