News

Principal's Message

Welcome Back Jefferson Families!

The 2026–2027 school year is just around the corner, and we are excited to welcome your child back to campus! We hope everyone had a wonderful summer and is ready for another successful school year. Our teachers and staff have been working hard to prepare engaging learning experiences and a positive environment for all students.

This year, we are pleased to welcome Mr. Oscar Tafolla as our new 4th grade teacher. Mr. Tafolla recently taught upper grades at MLK Elementary for the past two years. He is also returning to Jefferson, where he previously served as a 3rd and 5th grade teacher, as well as an administrator. With 15 years of experience in education, Mr. Tafolla brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong commitment to student success. We are thrilled to welcome him back to the Jefferson family.

We are also excited to welcome Ms. Denise Ramirez as our new Special Education teacher. Ms. Ramirez holds a bachelor’s degree in criminology, a master’s degree in education, and a PPS credential. Last year, she taught special education in an inclusive classroom, supporting both general education and special education students. She is passionate about creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.

Both Mr. Tafolla and Ms. Ramirez share Jefferson's commitment to academic excellence and student success. We know they will make a positive impact on our students, families, and school. Please join us in giving them a warm Jefferson welcome!

We look forward to working with you and your child throughout the school year. Together, let's make the 2026–2027 school year another outstanding year at Jefferson!

Go Águilas!

Sincerely,

Mr. Espindola

Important Events/Dates

IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES

Important Dates: (see HESD School Calendar for school holidays, important dates, etc.)

Office officially opens……………………………………………………….Monday, August 3^rd @ 7:30 a.m.

READY Placement (parents notified via HESD Connect)………………….Wednesday, August 5^th

Class list (ID # only) & Transportation routes posted (office window) …….Friday, August 7^th @ 4:30 p.m.

Kindergarten Meet & Greet….………………………………………………Tuesday, August 11^th @ 4:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.

First Day of School & READY Program……………………………………Wednesday, August 12^th @ 8:00 a.m.

Back-to-School Night………………………………………………………..Thursday, August 20^th @ 5:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m.

Band Rental Night @ Wilson Jr. High………………………........................Tuesday, August 25^th @ 5:00 p.m.- 6:30 p.m.

No School- Labor Day……………………………………………………….Monday, September 7^th

Picture Day…………….………………………………………………......... Tuesday, September 8^th

School Safety Information

Important School Safety Information

The safety of our students is of the utmost importance to us. Please review the safety tips below to help us keep our students safe.

Yard supervisors are on campus at 7:15 am. Students are not to be dropped off before 7:15 am. For students who ride a school bus, adult supervision begins upon arrival of the first bus.
The following drop-off and pickup zones have been designated:

Kinder - 2nd Grade - Malone Street gate

3rd - 4th Grade & Families - Parking lot gate off Middleton

5th - 8th Grade - Cameron Street gate (south side of school)

Please follow all traffic laws when dropping off and picking up students. Do NOT impede the flow of traffic. Do NOT make U-turns. Do NOT double park.
Drop-off between 7:15 - 7:45 am and always pull forward as far as possible. Students should exit/load from the passenger side of the vehicle.
There is NO parking from 7:00 am to 8:00 am on Malone Street in front of school; this area is posted. Please drop off your student and immediately leave the area once they are safely through the front gate. Do not leave your vehicle unattended.
Double Parking is NOT allowed around the school campus. Students will NOT be released to double parked cars.
Please follow all speed regulations around the school, including the alley going north from Malone St.
Crosswalks should be used at all times in the pickup areas. Park on the school side of the street to eliminate students having to cross the street.
The bus lane is for school buses only. Personal vehicles are not allowed in the bus lane.
For the safety of our students, all gates will remain locked during instructional hours.
Parents and visitors must check into the office at all times before entering the campus.
All adults are prohibited from using student restrooms. There are adult restrooms available in the office.
Do not leave siblings of students not enrolled at Jefferson unattended while on campus.
When picking-up your child, arriving 5-10 minutes after their dismissal will lessen the congestion.
Keep an eye out for students and pedestrians as you drive through the parking lot and check behind you thoroughly before backing up.
On Wednesdays, if you prefer to pick up your child right at release time and do not want them to eat lunch, please let them know ahead of time so they don't order a lunch and/or go into the cafeteria at dismissal.

Your assistance in eliminating traffic congestion and keeping our students safe is greatly appreciated. Thank you.