Judge Parent Association
JPA Report
January 31, 2005

We Are at Midyear, Can You Believe It!?!
Judge Parent Association

We've had a great year so far, and the rest looks to be great as well. I'd like to thank the parents who have volunteered for JPA and school activities. Recently those folks who helped with the Phon-athon deserve big kudos! Aleza Maland, Betsy Baker, Bill and Linda Sayre, Bill Bonn, Bill Cutting, Carolyn Richards, Christianne Phillips, Connie and Pete White, Crystal Richardson, Georgia Sullivan, Jeff Myaer, Jenny Hawkins, Kathleen Richards, Lisa Eshleman, Mary Beth Andrews, Mary Jane Dow, Melody Munoz, Michael Martinez, Mike Murray, Nancy May, Pat Green, Rick Smith, Sarah, Hollingsworth, Sharon Marron, Sheri Knuth, Steve and Anne Madrigal, Teri West. Special thanks to JPA Board Members, too, for their constant dedication to all our activities.

One thing that we have begun this winter is a closer communication with the Judge School Board. Respective leaders are attending each group's meeting to foster better connections, and to help each other out. Parents need the best possible information about their school, and we hope this will help. It's time to begin thinking about the JPA "Fairy Godmother" program when the JPA funds proposals from faculty at Judge who request special classroom-related items which would enhance teaching. We will be responding to proposals later in the spring.

Some upcoming events I would like to draw to your attention include two programs of interest to parents in March. The first is March 3 at 7p.m. in the Auditorium, "An Evening With Sister Madonna Buder" Sr. Buder is 74 years old, an internationally recognized triathlete, and Iron Man competition winner. She also is a great humanitarian. JPA will provide refreshments for a reception following the program. Next is March 14 at 7p.m. in the Auditorium, "It's Not Just Joking Around," a lecture by Jodee Blanco, who will speak on the topic of bullying among kids. Her New York Times Best Seller on this topic is entitled, Please Stop Laughing at Me. Partial funding for this lecture was provided by JPA.

Don't forget the Parent Teacher Conferences on March 2. JPA will provide the teachers with dinner that evening.

JPA was honored recently to be included in the grand kick-off celebration for the fundraiser to enhance the school property. In the gym there were 1000 balloons and the entire student body, plus staff and guests--what a rousing event! JPA is committed to supporting the campaign as much as possible.

I continue to meet regularly with the school staff, and as always encourage your comments and suggestions. Parental involvement makes a great school even greater.

Paul Mogren
JPA President
277-5215
Paul.Mogren@library.utah.edu