
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL - The countdown is on — just ONE month until the first day of school on Monday, Aug. 10. Take small steps now to get ready: Adjust sleep schedules a little each week, gather school supplies and organize backpacks, keep learning going with 20 minutes of reading or math each day, mark important school dates on your family calendar, and start practicing morning routines. We can't wait to welcome everyone back for another amazing year!
JSMAL Veterans Day Ceremony
HONORING OUR HEROES | VETERANS DAY CEREMONY
Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership proudly invites our Patriots community to join us for our Veterans Day Ceremony.
Together, we will honor the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country. Their courage, dedication, and sacrifice inspire the next generation of leaders.
📅 Tuesday, November 10, 2026
🕙 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
📍 Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership
❤️🤍💙 We salute our veterans and thank them for their service!
JSMAL PROUD!
HONORING OUR HEROES | VETERANS DAY CEREMONY
Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership proudly invites our Patriots community to join us for our Veterans Day Ceremony.
Together, we will honor the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country. Their courage, dedication, and sacrifice inspire the next generation of leaders.
📅 Tuesday, November 10, 2026
🕙 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
📍 Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership
❤️🤍💙 We salute our veterans and thank them for their service!
JSMAL PROUD!
❤️🤍💙 FUTURE PATRIOTS, WE WANT TO MEET YOU! 🎓
📣 Calling All Future Patriot Families!
Are you looking for a school where leadership, academic excellence, discipline, and opportunity come together?
Join Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership (JSMAL) at the 2026 DCPS School Enrollment EXPO!
📅 Saturday, November 14, 2026
⏰ 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Prime Osborn Convention Center
🦅 STOP BY OUR JSMAL BOOTH!
Meet our dedicated staff, explore our unique Military Leadership Magnet Program, and discover what makes the Stilwell experience special!
⭐ Leadership Development
📚 Academic Excellence
💻 STEM & Career and Technical Education
🏀 Athletics & Extracurricular Activities
🎓 High School Credit Opportunities
Patriot Pride & Military Traditions
Whether you're exploring middle school options or ready to become a Patriot, we can't wait to meet you and your family!
Come see why JSMAL is more than a school — we're building tomorrow's leaders today!
JSMAL PROUD!
Patriotic • Respectful • Optimistic • Unstoppable • Driven
❤️🤍💙 YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE. BECOME A PATRIOT!
📣 Calling All Future Patriot Families!
Are you looking for a school where leadership, academic excellence, discipline, and opportunity come together?
Join Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership (JSMAL) at the 2026 DCPS School Enrollment EXPO!
📅 Saturday, November 14, 2026
⏰ 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Prime Osborn Convention Center
🦅 STOP BY OUR JSMAL BOOTH!
Meet our dedicated staff, explore our unique Military Leadership Magnet Program, and discover what makes the Stilwell experience special!
⭐ Leadership Development
📚 Academic Excellence
💻 STEM & Career and Technical Education
🏀 Athletics & Extracurricular Activities
🎓 High School Credit Opportunities
Patriot Pride & Military Traditions
Whether you're exploring middle school options or ready to become a Patriot, we can't wait to meet you and your family!
Come see why JSMAL is more than a school — we're building tomorrow's leaders today!
JSMAL PROUD!
Patriotic • Respectful • Optimistic • Unstoppable • Driven
❤️🤍💙 YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE. BECOME A PATRIOT!
2026-2027 Parent Family Engagement Plan Available
Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership is pleased to announce that the 2026-2027 Parent Family Engagement Plan is now available in the front office. This plan outlines our commitment to building strong partnerships between school and home, ensuring families are informed, involved, and empowered to support student success.
We encourage all families to stop by the front office, review the plan, and learn about the opportunities available to stay engaged throughout the school year. Together, we can continue to create a positive and supportive learning environment for every Patriot!
Location: Front Office
Available Now: 2026-2027 Parent Family Engagement Plan
Who Should Review It: All Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership families and caregivers.
Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership is pleased to announce that the 2026-2027 Parent Family Engagement Plan is now available in the front office. This plan outlines our commitment to building strong partnerships between school and home, ensuring families are informed, involved, and empowered to support student success.
We encourage all families to stop by the front office, review the plan, and learn about the opportunities available to stay engaged throughout the school year. Together, we can continue to create a positive and supportive learning environment for every Patriot!
Location: Front Office
Available Now: 2026-2027 Parent Family Engagement Plan
Who Should Review It: All Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership families and caregivers.
Informed decision-making is essential.
Prior to casting your ballot, please ensure you distinguish between Amendment 3 and the Duval County 1-Mill Referendum.
✅ Amendment 3 pertains to statewide property tax regulations.
✅ The 1-Mill Referendum is a local initiative dedicated to school funding, which supports competitive educator compensation, student programs, the arts, and athletics.
It is important to avoid conflating these two measures. Please review the relevant facts to remain fully informed.
📊 Team Duval Data Triangle Survey 2026-27
Duval County Public Schools is launching the 2026-27 Data Triangle Survey from October 5-23, giving students, employees, families, and community members an opportunity to share their experiences and perspectives. The survey helps the district identify strengths, areas for growth, and ways to improve outcomes for everyone served. All responses are confidential, and employee participation remains anonymous. Students in grades 4-12 will complete the survey at school, while families and community members will have their own survey opportunities. Your feedback matters and helps make our schools stronger together. Learn more and preview the survey questions at duvalschools.org/surveys.
Duval County Public Schools is launching the 2026-27 Data Triangle Survey from October 5-23, giving students, employees, families, and community members an opportunity to share their experiences and perspectives. The survey helps the district identify strengths, areas for growth, and ways to improve outcomes for everyone served. All responses are confidential, and employee participation remains anonymous. Students in grades 4-12 will complete the survey at school, while families and community members will have their own survey opportunities. Your feedback matters and helps make our schools stronger together. Learn more and preview the survey questions at duvalschools.org/surveys.
Parents and families, let's work together to help our students build a successful future! Through Xello, students can discover their interests, explore career pathways, assess their strengths, and create meaningful plans for life after graduation. We encourage families to engage in career conversations at home, explore opportunities together, and support students as they develop the knowledge and skills needed for future success. Every discussion, goal, and exploration activity helps prepare our students to become confident, career-ready learners.
🎓 8th Grade Transition to High School Night🎓
The next chapter is almost here, 8th Grade Patriots!
JSMAL 8th-grade students and families are invited to Transition to High School Night! Join us to explore high school opportunities and get important information to help prepare your cadet for a successful transition.
📅 Thursday, October 8, 2026
⏰ 6:00 PM
📍 JSMAL Mess Hall & Gym
Families will have an opportunity to connect with representatives from several area high schools and learn more about programs and opportunities available to students.
We’ll also share information about upcoming 8th-grade activities, including Grad Bash and the Military Ball! 🎉
🍽️ Dinner will be provided!
We look forward to helping our 8th-grade Patriots prepare for their next mission—HIGH SCHOOL! ❤️🤍💙
The next chapter is almost here, 8th Grade Patriots!
JSMAL 8th-grade students and families are invited to Transition to High School Night! Join us to explore high school opportunities and get important information to help prepare your cadet for a successful transition.
📅 Thursday, October 8, 2026
⏰ 6:00 PM
📍 JSMAL Mess Hall & Gym
Families will have an opportunity to connect with representatives from several area high schools and learn more about programs and opportunities available to students.
We’ll also share information about upcoming 8th-grade activities, including Grad Bash and the Military Ball! 🎉
🍽️ Dinner will be provided!
We look forward to helping our 8th-grade Patriots prepare for their next mission—HIGH SCHOOL! ❤️🤍💙
📣 JSMAL Spirit Night at Moe’s Southwest Grill! 🌯🦅
Join us on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Moe’s Southwest Grill (4403 Roosevelt Blvd.) for a night of great food and school spirit!
Bring this flyer, mention JSMAL Spirit Night, and a portion of your purchase will be donated directly back to support our JSMAL Athletic Program. Every burrito, taco, bowl, and queso helps provide opportunities for our cadet-athletes to grow, compete, and succeed.
Bring your family, friends, and fellow Patriots and help us make a bigger impact while enjoying a delicious meal. Thank you for supporting our cadets and strengthening JSMAL athletics!
Good Food. Bigger Impact
Join us on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Moe’s Southwest Grill (4403 Roosevelt Blvd.) for a night of great food and school spirit!
Bring this flyer, mention JSMAL Spirit Night, and a portion of your purchase will be donated directly back to support our JSMAL Athletic Program. Every burrito, taco, bowl, and queso helps provide opportunities for our cadet-athletes to grow, compete, and succeed.
Bring your family, friends, and fellow Patriots and help us make a bigger impact while enjoying a delicious meal. Thank you for supporting our cadets and strengthening JSMAL athletics!
Good Food. Bigger Impact
Calling all military families, those that know military families and the community to nominate a military child for the Operation Homefront's Military Child of the Year® Award!
Operation Homefront’s Military Child of the Year awards celebrate and recognize the tremendous achievements of outstanding military children.
Each year, hundreds of military teens (ages 13–18) are nominated by a parent, teacher, mentor or guardian for this amazing award. Candidates for the Military Child of the Year Awards demonstrate resilience, strength of character, and the ability to thrive in the face of the challenges of military life. Now in its 19th year, Operation Homefront's Military Child of the Year® Award reflects the positive impact that these impressive young people have made on their military families, their schools, and their communities.
Winners receive a $10,000 cash award, a laptop, and are flown with a parent or guardian for a 3-night stay in Washington, D.C.
When is the nomination window: September 2 to December 1, 2026
Who can be nominated: Teens ages 13-18 who are the legal dependents of a service member in a branch of the armed forces – Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, National Guard, and Space Force
What is Operation Homefront looking for: Students who showcase scholarship, volunteerism, leadership, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria while facing the challenges of military family life
Learn more about this incredible opportunity and nominate a student at Operation Homefront Military Child of the Year Awards.
Operation Homefront’s Military Child of the Year awards celebrate and recognize the tremendous achievements of outstanding military children.
Each year, hundreds of military teens (ages 13–18) are nominated by a parent, teacher, mentor or guardian for this amazing award. Candidates for the Military Child of the Year Awards demonstrate resilience, strength of character, and the ability to thrive in the face of the challenges of military life. Now in its 19th year, Operation Homefront's Military Child of the Year® Award reflects the positive impact that these impressive young people have made on their military families, their schools, and their communities.
Winners receive a $10,000 cash award, a laptop, and are flown with a parent or guardian for a 3-night stay in Washington, D.C.
When is the nomination window: September 2 to December 1, 2026
Who can be nominated: Teens ages 13-18 who are the legal dependents of a service member in a branch of the armed forces – Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, National Guard, and Space Force
What is Operation Homefront looking for: Students who showcase scholarship, volunteerism, leadership, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria while facing the challenges of military family life
Learn more about this incredible opportunity and nominate a student at Operation Homefront Military Child of the Year Awards.
📣 JSMAL Spirit Night at Moe’s Southwest Grill! 🌯🦅
Join us on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Moe’s Southwest Grill (4403 Roosevelt Blvd.) for a night of great food and school spirit!
Bring this flyer, mention JSMAL Spirit Night, and a portion of your purchase will be donated directly back to support our JSMAL Athletic Program. Every burrito, taco, bowl, and queso helps provide opportunities for our cadet-athletes to grow, compete, and succeed.
Bring your family, friends, and fellow Patriots and help us make a bigger impact while enjoying a delicious meal. Thank you for supporting our cadets and strengthening JSMAL athletics!
Good Food. Bigger Impact
Join us on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Moe’s Southwest Grill (4403 Roosevelt Blvd.) for a night of great food and school spirit!
Bring this flyer, mention JSMAL Spirit Night, and a portion of your purchase will be donated directly back to support our JSMAL Athletic Program. Every burrito, taco, bowl, and queso helps provide opportunities for our cadet-athletes to grow, compete, and succeed.
Bring your family, friends, and fellow Patriots and help us make a bigger impact while enjoying a delicious meal. Thank you for supporting our cadets and strengthening JSMAL athletics!
Good Food. Bigger Impact
Jacksonville City Council Page Program
Looking for a unique way to get involved in your community? The Jacksonville City Council Page Program gives youth ages 11-18 the opportunity to gain firsthand experience in local government, earn community service hours, and work alongside City Council members during legislative meetings. Participants develop leadership, communication, and civic engagement skills while making a meaningful impact in their city. Scan the QR code to learn more and apply today!
Looking for a unique way to get involved in your community? The Jacksonville City Council Page Program gives youth ages 11-18 the opportunity to gain firsthand experience in local government, earn community service hours, and work alongside City Council members during legislative meetings. Participants develop leadership, communication, and civic engagement skills while making a meaningful impact in their city. Scan the QR code to learn more and apply today!
Free Children's Physicals & Immunizations Available! 🩺💙
Help keep your child healthy and ready for school with free physical exams and immunizations for children ages 4-19. Thanks to a partnership between and, families can access wellness check-ups, physicals, and immunizations at no cost. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.
📍 Location: Charger Academy, 7050 Melvin Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32210 (outside of the track)
📅 When: Every 3rd Wednesday from August through April, 9:00 AM to Noon
Give your child the care they need in a convenient, family-friendly setting. To schedule a visit, call 904-625-6809 or email mobile.health@ascension.org. Together, we can help every student stay healthy, prepared, and ready to learn.
Help keep your child healthy and ready for school with free physical exams and immunizations for children ages 4-19. Thanks to a partnership between and
📍 Location: Charger Academy, 7050 Melvin Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32210 (outside of the track)
📅 When: Every 3rd Wednesday from August through April, 9:00 AM to Noon
Give your child the care they need in a convenient, family-friendly setting. To schedule a visit, call 904-625-6809 or email mobile.health@ascension.org. Together, we can help every student stay healthy, prepared, and ready to learn.
Paxon School Tours 2026-2027
🎓 Discover what makes Paxon one of Duval County's premier magnet schools! Families and prospective students are invited to attend one of the upcoming school tours to learn about Paxon’s nationally recognized academic programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) opportunities. Explore the campus, hear about the programs of study, and see firsthand how Paxon provides a welcoming environment where all students can thrive. No RSVP is required, making it easy to find a tour date that works for your family.
Come see why Paxon continues to prepare students for success in college, careers, and beyond! 🦅📚✨
For more information, visit: https://dcps.duvalschools.org/o/psa
🎓 Discover what makes Paxon one of Duval County's premier magnet schools! Families and prospective students are invited to attend one of the upcoming school tours to learn about Paxon’s nationally recognized academic programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) opportunities. Explore the campus, hear about the programs of study, and see firsthand how Paxon provides a welcoming environment where all students can thrive. No RSVP is required, making it easy to find a tour date that works for your family.
Come see why Paxon continues to prepare students for success in college, careers, and beyond! 🦅📚✨
For more information, visit: https://dcps.duvalschools.org/o/psa
19th Annual Beyond High School Seminar
Preparing Students for Success Beyond Graduation! 🎓
The 19th Annual Beyond High School Seminar is a valuable opportunity for middle and high school students to explore college admissions, career pathways, scholarship opportunities, and hear firsthand experiences from current college students. Hosted by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Gamma Rho Omega Chapter in partnership with community organizations, this seminar connects students and families with resources that inspire and support future success. Join us on October 10, 2026, in Jacksonville for a morning of learning, networking, and college and career readiness.
Register today: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/19thAnnualBHSS
Preparing Students for Success Beyond Graduation! 🎓
The 19th Annual Beyond High School Seminar is a valuable opportunity for middle and high school students to explore college admissions, career pathways, scholarship opportunities, and hear firsthand experiences from current college students. Hosted by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Gamma Rho Omega Chapter in partnership with community organizations, this seminar connects students and families with resources that inspire and support future success. Join us on October 10, 2026, in Jacksonville for a morning of learning, networking, and college and career readiness.
Register today: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/19thAnnualBHSS
Your Coverage. A Brighter Tomorrow. ☀️
Navigating insurance doesn't have to be overwhelming. Wynter & Wynter Insurance Services provides personalized guidance and trusted advice to help individuals and families make informed decisions about Medicare, health, life, and supplemental insurance coverage. Licensed, insured, and certified, their mission is simple: help you plan, protect, and live brighter.
Navigating insurance doesn't have to be overwhelming. Wynter & Wynter Insurance Services provides personalized guidance and trusted advice to help individuals and families make informed decisions about Medicare, health, life, and supplemental insurance coverage. Licensed, insured, and certified, their mission is simple: help you plan, protect, and live brighter.
🚌 REMINDER: 2026–2027 BUS REGISTRATION 🚌
Families who need school bus transportation for the 2026–27 school year are encouraged to register as soon as possible.
✅ A Linked Parent Focus Account is required to register for transportation.
To Register:
• Log in to your Parent/Guardian Focus Account.
• Select your child's name.
• Select Child Info.
• Select Forms.
• Select 2026–27 Transportation Registration Form.
• Review the student's address (bus assignments are based on the primary address).
If the address is correct, select Yes to request transportation.
If the address is incorrect, contact your child's school to update the information before proceeding.
• Click Submit Request.
• Repeat the process for each student in your household.
📍 Alternate Address Requests
Students in a general education setting who need transportation to an alternate address must first complete the registration form and then contact the Transportation Office at 904-858-6200, Option 1.
📚 Self-Contained ESE Students
Students enrolled in a self-contained ESE program must also register for transportation. Be sure to complete the section labeled:
"ONLY Complete this section if your student is in a Self-contained ESE Program."
🛑 Viewing Bus Stop Information
Bus stop information will be available in Focus approximately 10 business days after registration, but not before Monday, July 27.
To view bus information:
• Log in to Focus
• Select your child's name
• Select Child Info
• Select Transportation
📅 Reminder: Register early to help ensure your student has an assigned bus stop by the first day of school, August 10, 2026.
Families who need school bus transportation for the 2026–27 school year are encouraged to register as soon as possible.
✅ A Linked Parent Focus Account is required to register for transportation.
To Register:
• Log in to your Parent/Guardian Focus Account.
• Select your child's name.
• Select Child Info.
• Select Forms.
• Select 2026–27 Transportation Registration Form.
• Review the student's address (bus assignments are based on the primary address).
If the address is correct, select Yes to request transportation.
If the address is incorrect, contact your child's school to update the information before proceeding.
• Click Submit Request.
• Repeat the process for each student in your household.
📍 Alternate Address Requests
Students in a general education setting who need transportation to an alternate address must first complete the registration form and then contact the Transportation Office at 904-858-6200, Option 1.
📚 Self-Contained ESE Students
Students enrolled in a self-contained ESE program must also register for transportation. Be sure to complete the section labeled:
"ONLY Complete this section if your student is in a Self-contained ESE Program."
🛑 Viewing Bus Stop Information
Bus stop information will be available in Focus approximately 10 business days after registration, but not before Monday, July 27.
To view bus information:
• Log in to Focus
• Select your child's name
• Select Child Info
• Select Transportation
📅 Reminder: Register early to help ensure your student has an assigned bus stop by the first day of school, August 10, 2026.
NOW ENROLLING • 2026–2027 School Year
Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership (JSMAL)
✅ No Waitlist
✅ Magnet School
✅ Open 6th Grade Seats
✅ Limited 7th & 8th Grade Seats
Proudly starting the new school year with a new principal and a "B" school grade, reflecting our commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and student success.
Discover a middle school where students build leadership, character, pride, and achievement in a structured and supportive environment.
📅 Schedule a Visit Today: (904) 693-7523
📍 Apply Through School Choice:
https://dcps.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/magnet-school
Enroll now—spaces are filling fast!
Leadership Starts Here.
Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership (JSMAL)
✅ No Waitlist
✅ Magnet School
✅ Open 6th Grade Seats
✅ Limited 7th & 8th Grade Seats
Proudly starting the new school year with a new principal and a "B" school grade, reflecting our commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and student success.
Discover a middle school where students build leadership, character, pride, and achievement in a structured and supportive environment.
📅 Schedule a Visit Today: (904) 693-7523
📍 Apply Through School Choice:
https://dcps.duvalschools.org/o/dcps/page/magnet-school
Enroll now—spaces are filling fast!
Leadership Starts Here.
🎉 Celebrating Excellence at JSMAL! 🎉
Through hard work, determination, and resilience, Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership has officially earned a "B" school rating! 👏
We extend our deepest gratitude to our students and staff for your commitment, dedication, and relentless effort in reaching this milestone. This achievement reflects the strength of our community and the pride we carry every day.
📈 We are making new strides—and we’re not stopping here. Let’s stay focused and push forward as we aim for that "A" next!
💙 WE ARE JSMAL PROUD!!! 💙
Through hard work, determination, and resilience, Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership has officially earned a "B" school rating! 👏
We extend our deepest gratitude to our students and staff for your commitment, dedication, and relentless effort in reaching this milestone. This achievement reflects the strength of our community and the pride we carry every day.
📈 We are making new strides—and we’re not stopping here. Let’s stay focused and push forward as we aim for that "A" next!
💙 WE ARE JSMAL PROUD!!! 💙
📣 End of Year Reminder – Joseph Stillwell Middle School 🎉
Team UP’s last day of school is almost here!
📅 Friday, May 22nd
We want to give a big THANK YOU to all students and staff for an amazing school year—you made it a GREAT one! 🌟
🚨 Important Reminder for Parents:
Please make arrangements for how your student will be getting home during the following week to ensure a smooth and safe dismissal process. 🚌🏡
📞 Questions? Contact:
Ms. Bolden
📱 904-884-1651
📧 Abolden@cisjax.org
Let’s finish the year strong! 💪