Visit from Bishop Susan Goff

 On Wednesday, December 13th, we had the honor of welcoming to our weekly chapel service the Rt. Rev. Susan Goff, Bishop Suffragan for the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia. She presided over the service with the assistance of Rev. Andrew Terry from St. Peter's Episcopal Church. Bishop Goff has been a long-time supporter of AJC and its mission, and we are always delighted to have her stop by. This time, she preached on the importance of remembering the real reason for Christmas and invited us to think about how we can each give birthday gifts to Jesus. We look forward to a visit from Bishop Shannon Johnston in February, as well as more visits from Bishop Goff in the future.

Our Christmas Celebration: A Beloved Tradition

The annual AJC Christmas Celebration on December 15th was an event to remember. The entire AJC community, including students, staff, families, volunteers, graduates, and supporters, gathered at Good Shepherd Baptist Church for an evening commemorating the birth of Christ. The service began with a nativity play that featured both students and staff (that included the first annual appearance of a two-person camel!). It was followed by festive performances from our violin players, Songbirds choir, Pep Squad, and Dance class. 

The evening concluded with a medley of hymns and carols. Every family left with cookies and professional school photos of their AJC student as gifts. Each student received a gift card for Christmas, thanks to the generosity of the Richmond Christmas Mother Fund. The gathering was a wonderful way to kick off Christmas Break!

            Current Volunteer Stats for the             2017-2018 School Year

 AJC has built a remarkable network of supporters over the years, including a fleet of incredibly hardworking volunteers. Both students and staff look forward to seeing familiar faces file through our doors each week. Our volunteers share many gifts that are essential to the daily operations of the school.

So far, more than ninety volunteers have logged over 965 hours for the 2017-2018 school year. We anticipate the number of hours to at least double by June. We are always grateful for our volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering with us, please contact Katye Snipes at snipesk@ajces.org.

Left to Right: Mike Maruca (Head of School), Jamie Gugino (Volunteer), Meghan Brinkley (4th Grade Teacher)

We are honored to announce this year's Gabriel Award was presented to volunteer Jamie Gugino. Every year, the Gabriel Award goes to a dedicated volunteer whose persistent belief in our students inspires both students and staff alike to keep going. Jamie spends hours each week tutoring some of our 4th graders in math. He shows them great patience and kindness every time he visits. Thank you, Mr. Jamie!

Looking Ahead: Student & Staff New Year's Resolutions

The school is looking forward to positive change and growth in 2018! Here are a few student and staff responses to the question "What is your 2018 AJC New Year's Resolution?": 

 "...to pass this grade."

"...to thank folks fives times more often than we do now."

 "...to get to school on time."

"...to spark someone's interest in photography." 

 "...to get better at math."

 "...to work harder at basketball practice."

"...to love and laugh more."

Let's see what the new year brings!