Dear Eighth Grade Students, 

As your Assistant Principal for the eighth grade, I want to welcome you to the start of an exciting new school year at John Jay Middle School. 

Eighth grade is a year unlike any other. It is a time when you step beyond the role of a student and learner to that of role model, mentor, and leader in our school community.   Having worked at the high school for several years, I can tell you that the students who were best prepared for high school and the world beyond were those who found a balance between hard work in class and active engagement with friends and community.  

I encourage you to challenge yourselves both academically and personally. Don’t shy away from a difficult math problem, an unfamiliar science topic, or a challenging book. Step outside your comfort zone -- join a club or activity you’ve never tried, audition for the school play, or participate in a new sport.  When you push yourself beyond what’s easy, you’ll develop resilience, perseverance, and confidence that will serve you long after you leave middle school.  

As eighth graders, you are the oldest students -- and the leaders.  You have the power to make a real difference in our school community. Younger students are watching you. Your actions, words, and attitudes set an example for everyone around you. Take pride in this responsibility. Look for ways to make positive contributions, both big and small.  Leadership comes in many forms. You don’t need a title or a badge to be a leader; sometimes it’s as simple as being the first to offer a helping hand or being the one who encourages others to do their best.  Greet new students with kindness and help them find their way. Do everything in your power to be safe, to be respectful, and to be responsible.  Stand up for what is right, even when it’s not easy. Include others, especially those who may feel left out or alone.   When you exhibit the JJMS Three Bes to others—teachers, staff, and peers—you help create a school culture of trust and friendship.  

This year will be filled with memorable moments—field trips, projects, dances, and celebrations. There will be laughter, hard work, and some challenges too. But through it all, remember that you are surrounded by people who care about your success. Your teachers, counselors, coaches, and staff are here to cheer you on, guide you, and help you reach your goals. 

And please know that my office is an open door, and I encourage you to stop in if you have any questions about middle or high school, if you want to share any concerns that arise over the course of the year, or if you just want someone to talk to about life, science, board games, the state of professional wrestling, or what's happening in the world of Marvel comics. 

Let’s make this year one that we will always remember and be proud of for our hard work, our achievements, and the positive impact we leave behind. 

 Wishing you a fantastic and inspiring school year, 
Dr. Samir Biswas
 Assistant Principal