To Jonathan Alder Students and Families:
As we approach the holiday break during the second quarter of the 2025–2026 school year, we have much to celebrate and reflect upon. The dedication, perseverance, and resilience demonstrated by our students, teachers, coaches, and staff throughout this fall and early winter have been remarkable. Your commitment to learning, growth, and community is truly inspiring.
Our Department of Teaching and Learning continues its forward-thinking work to elevate practices across the district, and our teams remain actively engaged with students as we advance our Educational Visioning efforts for the future of Jonathan Alder. Thank you for your continued partnership in this important work. Please continue to visit ElevateAlder.com to stay informed on facility planning and upcoming opportunities.
Master Facilities Next Steps:
As we move through a multi-year facilities construction process, the district will make small, thoughtful transitions along the way to ensure we can manage enrollment growth responsibly and maintain high-quality learning environments. These adjustments are designed to support students and staff during large-scale construction projects that culminate in new and expanded facilities by the 2028–2029 school year, including a new junior high and additions at Canaan and the high school. Each decision is guided by student needs, fiscal stewardship, and long-term alignment with the master facility plan approved by voters, which prioritizes permanent solutions over temporary fixes, as we prepare our district for the future.
School Delays or Cancellations:
As we enter the winter months, it is important for families to understand how decisions are made regarding school delays or cancellations due to inclement weather. Multiple factors are considered to ensure the safety of all students and staff. District officials monitor conditions closely, including updates from the Madison & Union County Sheriff’s Offices, neighboring districts, and transportation departments. We maintain constant communication with local superintendents and officials to assess road and driving conditions. Our goal is to notify students, families, and staff as quickly as possible regarding any changes to the school day. Thank you for your understanding, patience, and support, student and staff safety will always remain our highest priority.
As we enter the holiday season, please join us in embracing our district ONE Word focus for 2025–26: CONNECT. With our students, this means fostering meaningful relationships in classrooms, with teachers, and among peers to support learning, growth, and a sense of belonging. For families, the holiday break offers a perfect opportunity to connect intentionally at home, investing time and experiences that strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. By prioritizing connection both at school and at home, we support our students’ growth, well-being, and success as a whole.
These meaningful moments refresh us and help everyone return to school renewed, focused, and energized for the months ahead. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in the new year.
In Gratitude,
James Miller Ed.D.
Superintendent
Jonathan Alder Local School District