December 2025: Finishing Strong

December is always a bustling month, filled with holiday excitement and the push toward the end of the first semester. As we approach finals, we want to ensure every student is set up for success. To prepare for the end of the semester, we strongly encourage students to utilize our academic supports including the Math Lab, The Foundry, and the Language Lab.

As we wrap up the term, please note the information below regarding winter concert dates, athletic photo ordering, and "permissibles" for the upcoming break. We wish everyone a wonderful holiday season!

Best Regards,
Ben McMurray, principal

December 2025: Finishing Strong

Best Regards,
Ben McMurray, principal

1. Attendance & Permissible Absence Requests

With winter break approaching, we would like to take a moment to remind everyone about the importance of regular school attendance. When students are consistently present and on time to class, they are more likely to stay engaged, perform well academically, and build strong connections with their peers and teachers.

Here are a few key reminders:

Email jhhsattendance@ohschools.org if your child is absent or leaving early for an appointment.
For any students leaving during the school day, they must check in and out of the main office.
Excessive unexcused absences or tardies may lead to academic challenges and potential attendance interventions.
If your family has a pre-planned trip or sporting event, please email the attendance line to request a permissible absence form at least FIVE DAYS in advance so we can work together to ensure your student stays on track.

1. Attendance & Permissible Absence Requests

Here are a few key reminders:

Email jhhsattendance@ohschools.org if your child is absent or leaving early for an appointment.
For any students leaving during the school day, they must check in and out of the main office.
Excessive unexcused absences or tardies may lead to academic challenges and potential attendance interventions.
If your family has a pre-planned trip or sporting event, please email the attendance line to request a permissible absence form at least FIVE DAYS in advance so we can work together to ensure your student stays on track.

2. Winter Concerts

Choir Concert

Wednesday, December 10

Auditorium 7:30pm

You are warmly invited to join us for an inspiring evening of music at the Ottawa Hills Jr./Sr. High School auditorium. Our talented student vocalists have worked hard to prepare a beautiful and uplifting program that showcases their dedication, collaboration, and love of music. We hope you will join family, friends, and our school community in celebrating their achievements and enjoying a memorable night of choral performance.

Band Concert

Sunday, December 14

Auditorium 7:00pm

Please join us for the Ottawa Hills Band Concert in the auditorium. Our student musicians are excited to share a dynamic and engaging. This special evening highlights their commitment, creativity, and growth throughout the year. We look forward to welcoming you for a wonderful night of music and supporting our outstanding band students.

3. Exams

Tuesday, December 16-Friday, December 19

All students will be dismissed at 2:00pm each day if they do not have any make up exams or other obligations to teachers. Teachers have the discretion of providing different learning options at the end of the semester (final exam, test, group project, individual project, etc.). Junior high semester exams will count up to 10 percent of the final semester grade. High School exams will count up to 20 percent of the final semester grade. For more information about exam practices and policies, please see the student handbook.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1kHvOYX8ys7Up2jCX-_16KBFjD2lK1o4K?usp=sharing