JMES 3rd Nine Weeks Awards Assembly
Join us as we celebrate the hard work, growth, and achievements of our amazing scholars! ❤️💛
📅 Date: April 10, 2026
📍 Location: JMES Cafeteria
⏰ Times:
⭐ 4th–6th Grade: 8:30 AM
⭐ 1st–3rd Grade: 9:45 AM
We are proud of the progress our students have made, and we can’t wait to recognize their excellence. Families, come out and help us celebrate our scholars!

JMES Families,
As we prepare for the upcoming ATLAS Summative Assessment, we need your support in a special way!
We are asking all parents and guardians to create a short 30-second video message for your child to encourage and motivate them to do their very best on the test. Your voice matters, and hearing from you will help boost their confidence each day!
In your video, you might:
✨ Tell them how proud you are of their hard work
✨ Encourage them to stay focused and give their best effort
✨ Remind them that they are capable and ready
Please send your video to your child’s teacher via email or ClassDojo by April 13th.
Teachers will play these messages each morning before testing begins to help set a positive tone for the day!
Let’s continue working together to support our scholars. At JMES, we are On Time, On Task, and On a Mission!

The Cardinals Lounge is officially OPEN, and it represents who we are at James Matthews Elementary School,intentional, student-centered, and committed to the whole child.
This isn’t just about a space; it’s about building confidence, creating opportunities, and showing our students that they matter.
We’re On Time, On Task, and On a Mission, and this is what that looks like!
This isn’t just about a space; it’s about building confidence, creating opportunities, and showing our students that they matter.
We’re On Time, On Task, and On a Mission, and this is what that looks like!










📣 JMES Families We’ve Got a BUSY Month Ahead!!📣
We have several exciting and important events happening at James Matthews Elementary School for the month of April and we need your support to help make each one a success!







JMES Families,
We’re excited to invite you to our Science Fair tomorrow March 31st at 6:00 PM in the JMES gym!
Come out and support our amazing students as they showcase their hard work, creativity, and scientific thinking. You won’t want to miss the incredible projects they’ve been working on!
Let’s pack the gym and show our students how proud we are of them.

Don't forget to create your Pop-Up Store for JMES Spring Fundraiser!
Cash Rewards for Top Sellers!
Cash Rewards for Top Sellers!


Go ahead and create your pop-up store now!
Wow! How easy it is to get cash with minimal work!
1st Place Top Sellers: $100
2nd Place Top Seller: $75
3rd Place Top Seller: $50
4th Place Top Seller: $25
Wow! How easy it is to get cash with minimal work!
1st Place Top Sellers: $100
2nd Place Top Seller: $75
3rd Place Top Seller: $50
4th Place Top Seller: $25


🔬✨ JMES Science Fair – March 31!
Theme: “STEM Stars: Future Innovators in Action!”
Calling all 1st–6th grade scientists to showcase their experiments and projects in the JMES Gym.
Prizes for:
Creativity • Scientific Thinking • Presentation • Effort • Best in Grade Level
Registration forms due March 13
Questions? Contact Mrs. Burnett, Mr. Jimerson, or Ms. Mitchell.
Let’s celebrate our future innovators!
Theme: “STEM Stars: Future Innovators in Action!”
Calling all 1st–6th grade scientists to showcase their experiments and projects in the JMES Gym.
Prizes for:
Creativity • Scientific Thinking • Presentation • Effort • Best in Grade Level
Registration forms due March 13
Questions? Contact Mrs. Burnett, Mr. Jimerson, or Ms. Mitchell.
Let’s celebrate our future innovators!

💰🏦 JMES BANK DAY IS BACK! 🏦💰
Join us at James Matthews Elementary School for our next JMES Bank Day!
📅 March 10, 2026
⏰ 10:00 AM
Through our partnership with FBT Bank, our Cardinals are learning real-world financial literacy — saving money, making deposits, and building strong futures one dollar at a time. 💵✨
✅ Students with accounts—bring your deposits
✅ Parents who want to open an account—come complete an application
📌 Please bring:
• Valid ID
• Social Security numbers (for account setup)
At JMES, we don’t just teach lessons…
We create opportunities that prepare students for life.
#JMESBankDay
#FinancialLiteracy
#BuildingLeaders
Join us at James Matthews Elementary School for our next JMES Bank Day!
📅 March 10, 2026
⏰ 10:00 AM
Through our partnership with FBT Bank, our Cardinals are learning real-world financial literacy — saving money, making deposits, and building strong futures one dollar at a time. 💵✨
✅ Students with accounts—bring your deposits
✅ Parents who want to open an account—come complete an application
📌 Please bring:
• Valid ID
• Social Security numbers (for account setup)
At JMES, we don’t just teach lessons…
We create opportunities that prepare students for life.
#JMESBankDay
#FinancialLiteracy
#BuildingLeaders

🌸🎶 JMES SPRING FLING IS COMING! 🎶🌸
Let’s dance into spring, JMES family!
Join us for a night of fun, music, and memories at our JMES Spring Fling!
📅 Thursday, March 19, 2026
⏰ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 JMES Cafeteria
🎟️ Tickets: $10
📌 On sale in the main office starting March 3rd
✨ Music & dancing
✨ Food will be served
✨ Dress in spring colors or semi-formal
🚗 Important Reminder:
Students must be picked up by 8:00 PM.
Parents are highly encouraged to stay and enjoy the fun!
All JMES students and families are welcome—let's make it a night to remember!
#JMES
#SpringFling
Let’s dance into spring, JMES family!
Join us for a night of fun, music, and memories at our JMES Spring Fling!
📅 Thursday, March 19, 2026
⏰ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 JMES Cafeteria
🎟️ Tickets: $10
📌 On sale in the main office starting March 3rd
✨ Music & dancing
✨ Food will be served
✨ Dress in spring colors or semi-formal
🚗 Important Reminder:
Students must be picked up by 8:00 PM.
Parents are highly encouraged to stay and enjoy the fun!
All JMES students and families are welcome—let's make it a night to remember!
#JMES
#SpringFling

👑 Young Kings of JMES...This One is For You! 👑
We are excited to pour into our young men through a powerful experience focused on confidence, character, and leadership. At James Matthews Elementary, we are intentional about building strong boys who grow into strong leaders.
Parents, please make sure you:
✅ Sign and return the permission forms
✅ Send them back as soon as possible so your child can participate
This will be a day of mentorship, encouragement, and growth as we remind our boys who they are and who they’re becoming.
We’re not just raising students…
We’re raising Young Kings.
#JMES
#YoungKings
#CardinalStrong
#BuildingLeaders
#JMESBoys
We are excited to pour into our young men through a powerful experience focused on confidence, character, and leadership. At James Matthews Elementary, we are intentional about building strong boys who grow into strong leaders.
Parents, please make sure you:
✅ Sign and return the permission forms
✅ Send them back as soon as possible so your child can participate
This will be a day of mentorship, encouragement, and growth as we remind our boys who they are and who they’re becoming.
We’re not just raising students…
We’re raising Young Kings.
#JMES
#YoungKings
#CardinalStrong
#BuildingLeaders
#JMESBoys

Congratulations and job well done to our 2025–2026 Pine Bluff School District Teachers of the Year! 🍎✨
Your dedication, passion, and commitment to excellence do not go unnoticed.
Our students are truly lucky to have such inspiring educators leading the way!
Your dedication, passion, and commitment to excellence do not go unnoticed.
Our students are truly lucky to have such inspiring educators leading the way!

JMES Teacher of the Year 2026
James Matthews Elementary is proud to celebrate our 2026 Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Jaleisha Barnett-Dean!
Mrs. Barnett-Dean is the definition of excellence in action. As a dedicated 1st grade teacher, mentor, and instructional leader, she pours into our students and staff daily with passion and purpose. From building strong literacy foundations to supporting teachers through mentorship and leadership development, her impact is felt across our entire campus.
She goes beyond the classroom, tutoring after school, leading with integrity, and preparing for future school leadership through the Principal Prep Program. Mrs. Barnett-Dean represents what it means to serve with excellence and lead with love.
At JMES, we believe in growing leaders, and Mrs. Barnett-Dean is a shining example of what happens when passion meets purpose.
Help us celebrate a woman who continues to uplift our students, strengthen our staff, and elevate our school community.
Congratulations, Mrs. Barnett-Dean! Your JMES family is proud of you!
#JMESStrong
#TeacherOfTheYear
#CardinalExcellence
#LeadWithLove
#OnTimeOnTaskOnAMission
James Matthews Elementary is proud to celebrate our 2026 Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Jaleisha Barnett-Dean!
Mrs. Barnett-Dean is the definition of excellence in action. As a dedicated 1st grade teacher, mentor, and instructional leader, she pours into our students and staff daily with passion and purpose. From building strong literacy foundations to supporting teachers through mentorship and leadership development, her impact is felt across our entire campus.
She goes beyond the classroom, tutoring after school, leading with integrity, and preparing for future school leadership through the Principal Prep Program. Mrs. Barnett-Dean represents what it means to serve with excellence and lead with love.
At JMES, we believe in growing leaders, and Mrs. Barnett-Dean is a shining example of what happens when passion meets purpose.
Help us celebrate a woman who continues to uplift our students, strengthen our staff, and elevate our school community.
Congratulations, Mrs. Barnett-Dean! Your JMES family is proud of you!
#JMESStrong
#TeacherOfTheYear
#CardinalExcellence
#LeadWithLove
#OnTimeOnTaskOnAMission

👑 Crowned & Confident at JMES 👑
At James Matthews Elementary, we believe confidence is built, not born, and on March 9th, we’re pouring into our young kings in a powerful way!
Our Crowned & Confident Event is designed to uplift, inspire, and empower our boys through:
FREE haircuts
FREE books
Confidence-building conversations
Literacy and wellness connections
This experience is bigger than a haircut; it's about identity, pride, and purpose. When our boys feel confident, they show up differently in the classroom and in life.
Thank you to our barbers, mentors, and community partners who continue to help us build leaders at JMES. This is what happens when a village shows up for its children.
Because at JMES, we don’t just grow students…
We grow kings. 👑
#JMESStrong
#CrownedAndConfident
#BuildingKings
#OnTimeOnTaskOnAMission
#CardinalPride
At James Matthews Elementary, we believe confidence is built, not born, and on March 9th, we’re pouring into our young kings in a powerful way!
Our Crowned & Confident Event is designed to uplift, inspire, and empower our boys through:
FREE haircuts
FREE books
Confidence-building conversations
Literacy and wellness connections
This experience is bigger than a haircut; it's about identity, pride, and purpose. When our boys feel confident, they show up differently in the classroom and in life.
Thank you to our barbers, mentors, and community partners who continue to help us build leaders at JMES. This is what happens when a village shows up for its children.
Because at JMES, we don’t just grow students…
We grow kings. 👑
#JMESStrong
#CrownedAndConfident
#BuildingKings
#OnTimeOnTaskOnAMission
#CardinalPride

Dr. Seuss Spirit Week is Coming to JMES!
March 2nd–March 6th
Parents and families, get ready for a week full of reading, creativity, and fun at James Matthews Elementary School! We are celebrating Dr. Seuss Week with exciting daily themes to promote literacy and school spirit across our campus.
March 2nd–March 6th
Parents and families, get ready for a week full of reading, creativity, and fun at James Matthews Elementary School! We are celebrating Dr. Seuss Week with exciting daily themes to promote literacy and school spirit across our campus.

Join us for our James Matthews Elementary Black History Program—a powerful celebration of culture, courage, and excellence!
📅 February 25, 2026
⏰ 2:00 PM
📍 JMES Gym
Our scholars are bringing history to life through powerful performances, spoken word, and unforgettable moments that honor the leaders who paved the way.
This isn’t just a program…
It’s a celebration.
It’s a movement.
It’s a moment you don’t want to miss.
Come cheer on our scholars as they shine with confidence, pride, and purpose. At JMES, we honor the past while building the future.
#JMESStrong #BlackHistoryAtJMES #ExcellenceOnDisplay #CardinalPride
📅 February 25, 2026
⏰ 2:00 PM
📍 JMES Gym
Our scholars are bringing history to life through powerful performances, spoken word, and unforgettable moments that honor the leaders who paved the way.
This isn’t just a program…
It’s a celebration.
It’s a movement.
It’s a moment you don’t want to miss.
Come cheer on our scholars as they shine with confidence, pride, and purpose. At JMES, we honor the past while building the future.
#JMESStrong #BlackHistoryAtJMES #ExcellenceOnDisplay #CardinalPride

📣 JMES Families—Winter ATLAS Interim Testing Is Almost Here!
Our 3rd–6th grade scholars will take the Winter ATLAS Interim Assessment February 24th–27th. This is an important checkpoint to measure growth and prepare for spring success!
Here’s how you can help your child shine:
✅ Make sure they get plenty of sleep
✅ Have them at school on time (7:30–7:45) for breakfast
✅ Encourage them to try their best and stay confident
We are excited to see how much our students have grown—and we’re looking forward to welcoming new members into the JMES 1060 Club! 🎯
Let’s finish strong, families! When school and home work together, our scholars win. ❤️
#JMESStrong #OnAMission #1060Club #CardinalExcellence
Our 3rd–6th grade scholars will take the Winter ATLAS Interim Assessment February 24th–27th. This is an important checkpoint to measure growth and prepare for spring success!
Here’s how you can help your child shine:
✅ Make sure they get plenty of sleep
✅ Have them at school on time (7:30–7:45) for breakfast
✅ Encourage them to try their best and stay confident
We are excited to see how much our students have grown—and we’re looking forward to welcoming new members into the JMES 1060 Club! 🎯
Let’s finish strong, families! When school and home work together, our scholars win. ❤️
#JMESStrong #OnAMission #1060Club #CardinalExcellence

The Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson County offers expanded tutoring services in literacy and math to support students who need targeted academic reinforcement. Our established Power Hour homework program has been strengthened to meet the needs of youth who may be borderline for grade-level retention, providing them with focused instruction and consistent support to help reduce academic risk and improve outcomes.
The Boys & Girls Club is an approved tutoring site listed with the Arkansas Department of Education and is able to support families who receive state literacy tutoring vouchers. Our trained and prepared staff work with students in small-group and individualized settings to address skill gaps, build confidence, and reinforce classroom learning.
We encourage schools to refer families who may benefit from these services. Families are invited to reach out directly so our team can assist them with setting up ClassWallet accounts and ensure they are able to fully access available tutoring resources. Our goal is to partner with schools and families to provide timely, effective academic support that helps students stay on track for success.
Flyer - Literacy Tutoring Program.png
Tavante Calhoun Sr.
Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson County
Chief Executive Officer
Email: tcalhoun@boysgirlsclubjc.org
Office: (870)850-7500 ext 102
www.boysgirlsclubjc.org
The Boys & Girls Club is an approved tutoring site listed with the Arkansas Department of Education and is able to support families who receive state literacy tutoring vouchers. Our trained and prepared staff work with students in small-group and individualized settings to address skill gaps, build confidence, and reinforce classroom learning.
We encourage schools to refer families who may benefit from these services. Families are invited to reach out directly so our team can assist them with setting up ClassWallet accounts and ensure they are able to fully access available tutoring resources. Our goal is to partner with schools and families to provide timely, effective academic support that helps students stay on track for success.
Flyer - Literacy Tutoring Program.png
Tavante Calhoun Sr.
Boys & Girls Club of Jefferson County
Chief Executive Officer
Email: tcalhoun@boysgirlsclubjc.org
Office: (870)850-7500 ext 102
www.boysgirlsclubjc.org

Make your deposits! Bank Day is today!

📣 Parent–Teacher Conference Notice 📣
Dear JMES Families,
James Matthews Elementary School will host Parent-Teacher Conferences on:
📅 Tuesday, February 10, 2026
⏰ Conference Times: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
⏰ Early Dismissal for Students: 1:45 PM
⏰ Teacher Dinner Break: 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM (No conferences during this time)
Parent–Teacher Conferences provide an important opportunity to discuss your child’s academic progress, strengths, and areas for growth. We strongly encourage all families to attend and partner with us in supporting student success.
📌 Scheduling:
Your child’s teacher will post information regarding scheduling times through ClassDojo to schedule a specific conference time.
Your involvement plays a vital role in your child’s educational journey, and we look forward to working together to ensure continued growth and achievement.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership.
Mrs. Tameka Wright
Principal, James Matthews Elementary School
Dear JMES Families,
James Matthews Elementary School will host Parent-Teacher Conferences on:
📅 Tuesday, February 10, 2026
⏰ Conference Times: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
⏰ Early Dismissal for Students: 1:45 PM
⏰ Teacher Dinner Break: 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM (No conferences during this time)
Parent–Teacher Conferences provide an important opportunity to discuss your child’s academic progress, strengths, and areas for growth. We strongly encourage all families to attend and partner with us in supporting student success.
📌 Scheduling:
Your child’s teacher will post information regarding scheduling times through ClassDojo to schedule a specific conference time.
Your involvement plays a vital role in your child’s educational journey, and we look forward to working together to ensure continued growth and achievement.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership.
Mrs. Tameka Wright
Principal, James Matthews Elementary School

