Family Story: The Palmquist Family

What do you love about JRHS and why?

I love so much about JRHS! First, the community has been so welcoming and the older students have been very intentional about including our children. The teachers have also been so helpful and willing to answer all my questions and uncertainties as we've learned how the school works. They've also been so helpful and patient with our children as they've adjusted to in-classroom education from homeschooling.

Why did you choose JRHS for your children?

We chose JRHS because of the project and outdoor education opportunities. We also chose it because of its small class sizes. Our daughter is also thriving in the Jesse 8 program. It is giving her experience in classroom participation, teamwork, and time-management. She is also already building friendships that will make her transition into the school as a freshman much smoother!

What expected and unexpected growth have you seen in your JRHS students?

Our prayer for our kids going into JRHS was that they would be challenged to grow spiritually, emotionally, and academically. We have already seen answers to that prayer in that all three areas have improved in our children! Our son, especially, is thinking more deeply about theology and expanding his abilities to discuss his faith. He is making friends and learning how to navigate socially on the soccer team, and he is learning how to manage homework and gaining executive functioning skills in his classes.

In what ways have you seen your children grow in their faith as a result of their experiences at JRHS?

We have seen our son's confidence grow in having conversations about biblical theologies and his faith. He is learning how to find truth in the Bible and applying it to explain why he believes what he believes.

What is the one word your family would use to describe the JRHS experience?

Edifying

What would you tell other parents to encourage them to consider enrolling their children at JRHS?

JRHS encourages their students to embrace the Shema - to hear the Lord their God and to love Him with all their heart, mind, soul, and strength. Their holistic approach to education allows students to thrive more than just academically, but spiritually, emotionally, and physically as well.