A Message from Head of School, Tommy Blain:

There is a lot that looks different at AJC this fall. We welcomed 61 new students and 11 new staff members, moved into a new building and, of course, welcomed a new Head of School. Our halls are bustling again, and our classrooms are full of curiosity and learning.

But I’ve been struck just as much by what hasn’t changed.

In these first few weeks, I’ve watched students find their footing, reconnect with old friends, make new ones and begin learning and growing together. I’ve seen classrooms, hallways and playgrounds come alive with the energy and joy of our students. And I’ve watched new staff members find their place on their teams, welcomed and supported by colleagues who know this school well.

Despite all the transition, AJC feels very much like business as usual—or, more aptly, community-of-affection-as-usual. Every day reminds me that AJC is about so much more than academics; it is about helping each child know they are seen, loved and capable of great things.

There is still plenty of work ahead and deeper relationships to build. But we are off to a wonderful start. Thank you for supporting our work and school community. I am excited for the year ahead!

— Tommy

Our new Lower School library is already one of our favorite places in the building. It's bright and inviting—big windows and little nooks to settle in. 

Our librarian and IT specialist, Aaron Everic, has brought his kid-centered vision for the library to life, filling the shelves with a wide variety of books, adding comfy seating, and even choosing stationary bikes so students have the choice to move as they read.

This special space was made possible by people like you, who believe our students deserve beautiful places to learn, explore and discover the joy of reading.

We invite you to visit anytime—we’d love to show you around!

There’s something really special about the way our AJC family shows up for chapel. In the Lower School, Mr. Blain jumped right in, leading his first Chapel and asking students a simple question: What would Jesus do?

What if someone sitting alone in the cafeteria looked a little sad? What if someone jumped in front of you in line for your favorite swing?

Our littlest lions had answers. “I’d sit next to them so they don’t feel lonely,” Kindergartner Caleb said. Rayleonya, a 2nd grader, said, “I’d sit beside them to make them feel better.” 

Mr. Blain went on to talked about the things Jesus asks us to do every day: notice, care, forgive, and welcome. Students sang, shared their thoughts and prayed together—and Mr. Blain did a wonderful job of bringing it all to life.

Across the street in the Middle School, Rev. Becky McDaniel and our new student vestry (pictured below) are leading the way. 

Principal Gilliam shared a message about giving our troubles to God. Whether it’s struggling in English, feeling angry or upset with someone—or something as painful as losing someone we love—we don’t have to carry it alone.

Reverend McDaniel told a personal story of a time in her life when she learned an important lesson the hard way (as all of us do).

Weekly chapel has been a beautiful and loving way to come together as a community and begin our new school year together.

Middle School Student Vestry: Luke, Aleina, Brooklyn, Naiyeli, Alise, Jamil & Amarri

Volleyball season is underway! Pictured below, Eve is new to the sport but already looks like a natural, while veteran Kennedy came through with a game-winning point this week. So far, the girls are 3–0 in league play, winning each match in two sets.

League games continue through October at RVC Stonebridge in Midlothian, and we’d love to see some AJC folks in the stands. On October 5th, we’ll bring the action home for our first-ever AJC home game and athletics fundraiser ($5 admission), when we take on Elijah House in the middle school gym.

Come cheer on the Lady Lions! You’ll love the excitement of the game—and seeing how much the girls enjoy playing together.

We are growing our sub list! Please reach out to Katye Snipes at snipesk@ajcschool.org if you are interested in becoming a substitute teacher. 

To give of your time and talent as a volunteer, please contact Ashley Raggi at raggia@ajcschool.org.

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Join us in praying for our students, staff, and families.