Tuesday is HIGH ATTENDANCE DAY across the Commonwealth!
We encourage our students to attend school every day, but especially on Tuesday, September 9, 2025! Bragging rights are on the line in our district-wide competition!!! Great attendance that day helps HCS as we compete with other districts in Kentucky.
#HCSDifferenceMaker #DistrictOfOpportunities
We encourage our students to attend school every day, but especially on Tuesday, September 9, 2025! Bragging rights are on the line in our district-wide competition!!! Great attendance that day helps HCS as we compete with other districts in Kentucky.
#HCSDifferenceMaker #DistrictOfOpportunities
If you received a message from us about tardies, we apologize. That was not meant to go out to everyone.
Correction: Thursday's ballgame against East Hardin Middle School is a girls basketball game, not a football game. It will still be played at home.
September is off to a spirited start, and we are building momentum, celebrating each other, and keeping the joy alive at JT Alton. Don't miss the Parent Update in your inbox.
#JTAPride #CelebrateTheGood #MiddleSchoolMagic
REMINDER - There is NO SCHOOL on Monday, September 1, 2025!
We're kicking off the year with our first school dance, and the energy is high! All students will be dismissed promptly at 5:00 PM, so please plan to arrive on time.
Pick-Up Procedures: We’ll have two pick-up lines to help things run smoothly:
Main Drop-Off Line – If you're familiar with the morning drop-off routine, this will follow the same pattern. Just pull in as you normally would.
Bus Parking Lot Line – This line will begin at the front doors and continue through the entrance to the bus parking lot.
Not sure where to go? No worries—we’ll be outside directing traffic to make sure everything flows safely and efficiently.
A quick heads-up: We do not recommend parking in the lot unless you're in the pick-up line. Once parked outside the flow, it may be difficult to exit.
Thanks for helping us wrap up a great event with a smooth dismissal!
Pick-Up Procedures: We’ll have two pick-up lines to help things run smoothly:
Main Drop-Off Line – If you're familiar with the morning drop-off routine, this will follow the same pattern. Just pull in as you normally would.
Bus Parking Lot Line – This line will begin at the front doors and continue through the entrance to the bus parking lot.
Not sure where to go? No worries—we’ll be outside directing traffic to make sure everything flows safely and efficiently.
A quick heads-up: We do not recommend parking in the lot unless you're in the pick-up line. Once parked outside the flow, it may be difficult to exit.
Thanks for helping us wrap up a great event with a smooth dismissal!
Good evening, JTA Families!
We’re excited to let you know that our Back-to-School Dance is happening this Friday from 3:00–5:00 PM. Tickets are $5 and will be sold during lunch on Friday. The concession stand will be open if students would like to buy snacks.
Important Reminder: Please avoid picking up your child early from the dance. Student belongings will be stored in their grade-level hallway, and staff won’t be able to leave our posts to help students retrieve their items early.
We’d also love your input! Our Site-Based Decision Making Council is working on our school improvement plan, and your feedback is incredibly valuable. If you have a few minutes, please take our short survey—it only takes about 5–7 minutes to complete.
Thank you for your continued support!
You're Invited: Trojan Family Forum!
Join Principal Cassady this Monday at 9:30 AM in the school library for our very first Trojan Family Forum—a casual, uplifting conversation to celebrate the good things happening at James T. Alton and give families a chance to ask questions, share ideas, and connect.
Space is limited—we’re planning for around 20 guests, so please RSVP to help us prepare: RSVP Link
Whether you’re bursting with questions or just want to soak in the good vibes, we’d love to see you there!
#TrojanFamilyForum #JTACommunity #CelebrateTogether
Hello JTA Families!
We’ve got a whole week packed with spirit, connection, and celebration—so let’s dive in!
Trojan Gear Alert! Want your student to show off their Trojan pride in style? Our Trojan Spirit Online Store is open now through August 31! Browse awesome apparel and accessories, place your order online, and we’ll deliver it straight to school. Best part? A portion of every purchase supports our athletic department—thanks to our friends at H & W Dukes! Trojan Spirit Online Store
Introducing the Trojan Family Forum! Join us for our first-ever Trojan Talk this Monday at 9:30 AM in the library! It’s a relaxed, open conversation where parents can ask questions, share ideas, and celebrate all things JTA. Let’s build something great—together! We hope to see you there.
Stay in the Know with the JTA Parent Update! Ms. Howell’s yearbook class is launching a brand-new weekly newsletter just for parents! It’ll be posted on our Facebook page and website, and we’re attaching the first edition right here for easy access. It’s your go-to guide for staying connected and informed. JTA Parent Update
Color Games Are Coming—Tomorrow! Our fundraiser wraps up with a splash of color and a whole lot of fun! Students who raise $35 or more by 8 AM tomorrow will earn prizes and get to join the Color Games on the field. Haven’t donated yet? If you have donated already, we greatly appreciate your continued support. If you would like to contribute and help our school, please visit: https://myapexevent.com/event/28635/sponsor There, you will have the option to select your student (participant) for the donation to count towards him/her. The cut-off time for donations is 9 am tomorrow morning. Reminder: Students should wear comfy clothes and shoes they don’t mind getting messy. Everyone gets a t-shirt, but we’re going full color-powder mode, so let’s keep those fresh school outfits safe at home! Pro tip: If you are picking your child up tomorrow, you might also lay a blanket in the seat. We will dust them off before dismissal, but they will still have quite a bit of colored powder on them.
Back to School Dance—Let’s Go! Mark your calendars for August 29, 3–5 PM! Our Back to School Dance is just $5 for admission, and the concession stand will be open for snacks and treats. It’s the perfect way to kick off the year with friends, music, and fun vibes.
Let’s keep the momentum going, Trojans—there’s so much to look forward to as we wrap up the week and head into an unforgettable week #3!💙💛
Teamwork + Transformations = Success!
Mr. Bennett’s math class was all about movement today—on the graph, that is! Our students put their heads together to tackle translations, working in teams to plot, shift, and solve with precision and purpose.
It’s inspiring to see collaboration in action as students help each other understand how shapes move across the coordinate plane. Learning is always better when we do it together!
#JTAPride #MathInMotion #TeamworkInClass #TransformationsWithMrBennett #MiddleSchoolMathMagic
Mr. Bennett’s math class was all about movement today—on the graph, that is! Our students put their heads together to tackle translations, working in teams to plot, shift, and solve with precision and purpose.
It’s inspiring to see collaboration in action as students help each other understand how shapes move across the coordinate plane. Learning is always better when we do it together!
#JTAPride #MathInMotion #TeamworkInClass #TransformationsWithMrBennett #MiddleSchoolMathMagic
Serving and Protecting...and Now Serving Lunch!
When duty calls, Officer Whalin always answers—even if it’s in the cafeteria! Today, our amazing School Resource Officer jumped in to help during lunch, proving once again that she’s a true hero in and out of uniform. 💙
Whether she’s keeping our campus safe or handing out trays with a smile, Officer Whalin brings heart, humor, and dedication to everything she does. Way to go, Officer Whalin—we’re lucky to have you!
#OfficerWhalin #SROStrong #JTAPride #AboveAndBeyond #LunchDutyLegend
When duty calls, Officer Whalin always answers—even if it’s in the cafeteria! Today, our amazing School Resource Officer jumped in to help during lunch, proving once again that she’s a true hero in and out of uniform. 💙
Whether she’s keeping our campus safe or handing out trays with a smile, Officer Whalin brings heart, humor, and dedication to everything she does. Way to go, Officer Whalin—we’re lucky to have you!
#OfficerWhalin #SROStrong #JTAPride #AboveAndBeyond #LunchDutyLegend
More fun at lunch.
Good Afternoon JTA Families,
This is Principal Danielle Cassady, and I just have to say—what a fantastic start to the school year! Your kids came back smiling, energized, and (brace yourselves)... incredibly well-behaved. I’m not saying we’ve entered a parallel universe, but I honestly can’t remember a smoother kickoff. So thank you for raising such awesome humans—we’re loving every minute with them!
Now, I know your inbox is probably already bursting with emails about everything from lunch menus to lost water bottles, so I’ll keep this short and sweet. I’ve linked our brand-new JTA Parent Update newsletter. It’s your one-stop shop for all things school-related, minus the clutter. We’ll also post it on social media and send it out through all Apptegy channels—so if you’ve got the HCS app, you’re covered.
Color Games Fundraiser – One Week Left! We’re in the final stretch of our one and only school-wide fundraiser for the year, and it’s a fun one! The Color Battle is coming up fast, and any student who raises at least $35 will score a t-shirt and get to toss colored powder at their friends (with permission, of course). It’s messy, it’s joyful, and it’s basically the highlight of the year.
Best of all, 100% of the money raised goes straight back to our students—funding field trips, rewards for great attendance, grades, and behavior, and all the little extras that make school feel special. Want a sneak peek? Check out this video highlighting all the fun of the Color Games Fundraiser.
Need Spirit Wear? If your student needs a t-shirt or just wants to show off their Trojan pride, you can grab spirit wear right here: Whether it’s for sports or just everyday swagger, we’ve got you covered.
We’re truly excited about what’s ahead this year. If you have any questions about the newsletter, the fundraiser, or anything else, don’t hesitate to reach out to the school office. We’re here, we’re listening, and we’re so grateful to have you as part of our JTA family.
Let’s keep the good vibes rolling!
Warmly, Danielle Cassady Principal, JTA
We’re all in this together! And together with the Apex Team we can have lots of fun AND raise lots funds for field trips and rewards!
We have 5 students who will be getting Chic-fil-a tomorrow for lunch for sharing their page. Tonight's challenge is the 6th period class with the most shares will get to slime the APEX team at lunch tomorrow.
#TrojanPride #BuildingLeaders #ApexColorGames
We have 5 students who will be getting Chic-fil-a tomorrow for lunch for sharing their page. Tonight's challenge is the 6th period class with the most shares will get to slime the APEX team at lunch tomorrow.
#TrojanPride #BuildingLeaders #ApexColorGames
Have you selected your student’s Color Games t-shirt size yet? Every student who raises $35 will receive a shirt and color packet to participate in our AWESOME EVENT coming up on Aug. 22! Go to MyApexEvent.com and login with your student’s access code to select their size, share with more friends and family, and make a pledge!
TODAY was our first day of the fundraiser and lunchtime with the Apex Team so be sure to ask your student about it tonight!
Today’s challenge is the top 5 students with the most shares will get Chic Fil A for lunch tomorrow.
#ApexLeadershipCo #BuildingLeaders #ApexColorGames
TODAY was our first day of the fundraiser and lunchtime with the Apex Team so be sure to ask your student about it tonight!
Today’s challenge is the top 5 students with the most shares will get Chic Fil A for lunch tomorrow.
#ApexLeadershipCo #BuildingLeaders #ApexColorGames
Good Evening JTA Families,
Our students had a blast today meeting the Apex Team! They should have brought home an info sheet that includes a QR code with their Access Code to log donations online. This is our one big fundraiser of the year, and every dollar goes right back to rewarding our students for their hard work. The money raised will support our monthly Trojan Store, our auction that is held twice a year, and field trips. Be on the lookout for emails coming from your teachers also! The goal for today is to share your Pledge Page with 20 people! Use the Share Wizard when you login to your page on Anython.com to spread the word to friends and family who can help our school! Click this link for more information.
We just wanted to share some Back to School 2025-26 sights and sounds with you! It is going to be a great school year! https://youtu.be/6sG0LRIP9L4 #HCSDifferenceMaker
Subject: A Fantastic Start to the School Year & Important Updates from JTA
Good Afternoon JTA Families,
This is Principal Danielle Cassady, and I’m thrilled to share that we’ve had an absolutely wonderful start to the school year! Our students have returned with energy, enthusiasm, and positivity—and their behavior has been exceptional. Truly, I can’t recall a smoother opening week. Thank you for raising such respectful, kind, and eager learners. We’re off to a great start, and it’s all thanks to you!
I do want to apologize for the length of this message—there’s a lot to cover as we kick off the year. We’re committed to streamlining communication moving forward so you’re not overwhelmed with multiple messages. Thank you for your patience as we share these important updates.
📣 Upcoming Tryouts & Sports Opportunities
JTA Cheer Tryouts: If your student missed tryouts last year, they have one final opportunity on Monday and Tuesday from 3:00–5:00 PM in the cafeteria.
Lady Trojans Basketball: Open gym tryouts will be held tomorrow and Monday from 3:00–5:30 PM. All interested 6th and 7th grade girls are encouraged to attend. A current sports physical is required to participate.
🕊️ New State Laws Affecting Schools
Two new laws are now in effect:
Daily Moment of Silence: All students will observe a one-minute moment of silence each morning following the Pledge of Allegiance. This time may be used for quiet reflection, meditation, or prayer—students must remain seated and silent.
Traceable Communication Requirement: Staff must now communicate with students through traceable platforms. Hardin County Schools will use Rooms in Apptegy, accessible via the HCS app (free in the Google Play and Apple App Stores). This ensures transparency and safety in all communications.
Watch this short video for help downloading the app.
Be sure to select JTA as one of your organizations to receive school messages and connect with teachers.
If you need assistance accessing Rooms, please reach out—we’re happy to help!
🍽️ Free Meals & Household Income Form
We’re fortunate that every student receives free breakfast and lunch at JTA, thanks to federal funding. To maintain this program, families must complete the Household Income Form. It’s quick and easy to fill out online, and only one form is needed per household—even if you have children at multiple schools.
Complete the form here
Incentives:
Students who submit the form by August 15 will receive $10 in Trojan Bucks
Parents will be entered into a drawing for one of three $50 gift cards
📝 Census Verification Reports
These forms went home with students today. If you didn’t complete your annual update in Infinite Campus over the summer, you’ll receive a printed form.
If all information is correct, simply write “Everything Correct” and return it.
If you’ve had changes to your address, phone number, or pick-up list, please note them directly on the form and send it back with your child on Monday.
Accurate information is essential for emergencies and school communications, so thank you for helping us keep our records up to date.
📸 Share Your First Day Moments!
We’d love to hear about your child’s first day! If you post on social media, please tag James T. Alton Middle School and give a shout-out to any staff member who made your child feel welcome or supported. Let’s celebrate the amazing people who make JTA feel like home. 💙💛
Thank you again for your continued support and partnership. We’re looking forward to an incredible year together at JTA!
Warmly, Danielle Cassady Principal, JTA
Good evening, JTA families!
This is Danielle Cassady, Principal at JTA. If you have more than one child in Hardin County Schools, you might be thinking, “Another call?”—and you’d be right! But that’s just because we’re all so excited to welcome our students back tomorrow morning. We can’t wait to kick off a fantastic school year together!
Here are a few helpful reminders to make the first week go as smoothly as possible:
Missed Open House? No worries! Your child will receive a fresh schedule tomorrow morning, so there’s no need to scramble to print one tonight. We’ll make sure they feel welcomed and know exactly where to go.
Bus delays may happen. Morning buses might run a little late, but as long as your child is waiting at their stop, a bus will be there to pick them up. Afternoon drop-offs may also take a bit longer during the first few days, so thank you for your patience as we get everything flowing smoothly.
Car rider info: Our doors open at 7:40 AM. Please avoid arriving too early to help prevent traffic backups on Country Club Road. Dismissal is at 3:00 PM. If you're picking up your child, please pull up close to the car in front of you to help keep the line moving.
Paperwork coming home: Even if you completed online registration, your child will still bring home a few forms that need your attention. Think of it as your Day 1 homework! It won’t be much, but it’s important.
Thank you so much for your support and partnership. We’re truly looking forward to seeing all our amazing students tomorrow morning. It’s going to be a wonderful year!
Wishing you a relaxing evening, Danielle Cassady Principal, JTA
This is Danielle Cassady, Principal at JTA. If you have more than one child in Hardin County Schools, you might be thinking, “Another call?”—and you’d be right! But that’s just because we’re all so excited to welcome our students back tomorrow morning. We can’t wait to kick off a fantastic school year together!
Here are a few helpful reminders to make the first week go as smoothly as possible:
Missed Open House? No worries! Your child will receive a fresh schedule tomorrow morning, so there’s no need to scramble to print one tonight. We’ll make sure they feel welcomed and know exactly where to go.
Bus delays may happen. Morning buses might run a little late, but as long as your child is waiting at their stop, a bus will be there to pick them up. Afternoon drop-offs may also take a bit longer during the first few days, so thank you for your patience as we get everything flowing smoothly.
Car rider info: Our doors open at 7:40 AM. Please avoid arriving too early to help prevent traffic backups on Country Club Road. Dismissal is at 3:00 PM. If you're picking up your child, please pull up close to the car in front of you to help keep the line moving.
Paperwork coming home: Even if you completed online registration, your child will still bring home a few forms that need your attention. Think of it as your Day 1 homework! It won’t be much, but it’s important.
Thank you so much for your support and partnership. We’re truly looking forward to seeing all our amazing students tomorrow morning. It’s going to be a wonderful year!
Wishing you a relaxing evening, Danielle Cassady Principal, JTA
Here is some important information that you need to know before the first day of school on August 7, 2025. Find it here: https://bit.ly/hcsbacktoschool2526
