Monthly Newsletter

A Message from Principal Ruzek

ROCKET FAMILY,

We're off to a great start here at John Marshall High School! The energy was high on the first day as we welcomed a large and enthusiastic freshman class, and it only grew stronger with an all-school pep fest in the gym on Day 2. This year, our focus is on increasing student participation in school activities—a proven way to boost GPA and increase graduation rates by up to 140%. We're especially excited to launch our new Freshman on Track program, which emphasizes earning C’s or better, maintaining 90%+ attendance, getting involved in at least one activity, and avoiding behavioral issues. We’re also looking forward to a fantastic fall filled with parent conferences, sporting events, Homecoming, and so much more. Love you all—let’s make the 2025–26 school year our best yet!

Matt Ruzek
Principal
John Marshall High School

Important Dates & Reminders

Tuesday, Sept 9: Picture Day Grades 9 & 10
Wednesday, Sept 10: Picture Day Grades 11 & 12
Saturday, Oct 4: JM Fall Festival 4PM - 7PM
Tuesday, Oct 7: Flu Clinic (pre-registration required by Sept 10 at 11PM). Use link to register: semnic.org
Friday, Oct 10: Homecoming Parade & Game 4PM - 10PM
Mid Oct: Winter Sport Registration - watch for more information
Thursday & Friday, Oct 16 & 17: MEA Break - NO School
Tuesday, Oct 21: Parent/Teacher Conferences 4PM - 7PM
Wednesday, Oct 29: JM Dental Clinic (pre-registration required). Contact ervasquez@rochesterschools.org for information

Academics & Opportunities

There are many ways we work to support your student at JM. This section will highlight a couple each month.

John Marshall Counseling Office

Throughout the school year, different opportunities are presented through the Counseling Office, such as College Visits, Career Exploration & engagement with Military Recruiters. Please use the CALENDAR feature found on the JM website & JM app to find dates and times.

W.I.N. Room

The W.I.N. Room is an academic support space found within our Library. The WIN Room is staffed most hours by JM English, Math & Science Teachers. Students can go during an open period or with a pass.

RCTC College Transitions Advisor

Every Wednesday, Jamie Johnson from RCTC, is here to support our students and families. She can be found all day in 3-105.

Get college questions answered
Learn information about RCTC and/or other colleges
Discuss college majors & program information
Receive college enrollment assistance
Get help with applying for scholarships & financial aid
Learn about free summer courses
Discuss all things college related!

Attendance Matters

This school year, there is an increased focus on student attendance, with a special focus on our freshmen. Research shows that students greatly increase their chances of graduating within four years by being 'On Track' in ninth grade.

Student Life & Activities

There are a multitude of ways for students to be involved in activities at John Marshall. The best way for students & families to be informed about these opportunities is by checking the JMHS Website.

Athletics

Each season, different sports are offered. They all require a current sport physical on file with the Activities Office, as well as pre-registration. Fall sports are currently underway. Registration for Winter sports will happen in mid-October.
https://www.johnmarshallrockets.org/

Clubs

JM also supports a myriad of clubs, ranging from Garden & Greenhouse Club to Black Student Union, from Math League to JM Pride. And if you don't see something that interests you, talk to a staff member about how to start a new club. Get involved!
https://jmhs.rochesterschools.org/o/jm/page/jm-clubs

Activities Highlight: FCCLA Goes to Nationals

John Marshall FCCLA students represented the school and Minnesota at the National FCCLA Conference in Orlando, Florida, in July. Six students earned awards: Elle Pham – 2nd in Financial Literacy, Jomanh Sharif – 5th in Leadership, Ruby Truong – Silver in Chapter Service Project, Arsiema Feliche – Silver in Focus on Children, and Manal Mahamoud – Bronze in Hospitality and Tourism. Kongberi Nsameluh also represented Minnesota as a State Officer. Over 10,000 students attended from across the nation.

Celebrations & Spotlights

Once a Rocket, Always a Rocket

Deontae Veney, Class of 2020, joined us this year as a Special Education Teacher and football coach, and we are so happy to welcome him back to JM. A favorite memory of his time at JM was his Senior year - winning their first football playoff game against Northfield in a long time. Deontae pursued education to fulfill his passion of helping kids. He's most looking forward to putting smiles on our students' faces and making sure they know they are loved and cared for.