With a new smartphone/device policy coming to SMMUSD middle schools this year, many families have questions. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Frank Dussan, Director of Student Services for SMMUSD, about the district’s updated approach to managing student smartphone use during the school day. Dr. Dussan shares his perspective on students’ access to smartphones, the goals behind the new policy, and how SMMUSD is thinking long-term about creating learning environments with fewer digital distractions and more opportunities for student connection, engagement, and focus.

Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!

Curious about the JAMS PTSA? This episode will fill you in on our school’s Parent Teacher Student Association! We talk with JAMS PTSA President Aimee Koeplin (1:27) about the purpose and role of the PTSA and how it supports teachers, students, and families through events, programs, and more. We also chat with Lucy Atwood (13:45), manager of the JAMS Student Store, to learn how parents keep the store running every day at lunchtime throughout the school year. This episode is a great listen for anyone interested in getting involved or discovering how the PTSA makes a difference at JAMS.

Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!

In this episode, we talk with JAMS Assistant Principal Farnoosh Aguilar, who shares insight and advice for students and families entering 6th grade at JAMS (1:36). Next, math teacher Morgan Ruvolo helps demystify the math pathways that begin in middle school (30:42). We explore what math classes are offered at JAMS, how placement decisions are made, and how parents can best support their child for a successful (and less stressful!) math experience. Finally, we hear from Santa Monica High School advisor Amy Golden (42:29) about the transition from 8th to 9th grade and how Samohi guides students and families through this important next step.

Please share this episode with any families who might be preparing for one of these big transitions!

Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!