JAMS Hall Pass Podcast

In today's episode, we're taking a closer look at the elective options available to JAMS students - a topic that can feel mysterious and confusing to parents! We kick things off with an overview of all elective options for each grade level (1:09). Next, you'll hear from four of our electives teachers: Jennifer Joyce who teaches Art and Advanced Art (4:43), Jener Miranda, our Journalism teacher (7:33); Spanish teacher Florencia Lanus (19:05); and Cori Goldberg, our Yearbook teacher (23:16). A big shout-out to the students who shared their thoughts about their elective experiences with us. Whether your student already has their schedule figured out or is still exploring options, this episode is a great resource as class selection season gets underway.Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!

With a new smartphone/device policy coming to SMMUSD middle schools this year, many families have questions. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Frank Dussan, Director of Student Services for SMMUSD, about the district’s updated approach to managing student smartphone use during the school day. Dr. Dussan shares his perspective on students’ access to smartphones, the goals behind the new policy, and how SMMUSD is thinking long-term about creating learning environments with fewer digital distractions and more opportunities for student connection, engagement, and focus.Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!

Curious about the JAMS PTSA? This episode will fill you in on our school’s Parent Teacher Student Association! We talk with JAMS PTSA President Aimee Koeplin (1:27) about the purpose and role of the PTSA and how it supports teachers, students, and families through events, programs, and more. We also chat with Lucy Atwood (13:45), manager of the JAMS Student Store, to learn how parents keep the store running every day at lunchtime throughout the school year. This episode is a great listen for anyone interested in getting involved or discovering how the PTSA makes a difference at JAMS.Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!

In this episode, we talk with JAMS Assistant Principal Farnoosh Aguilar, who shares insight and advice for students and families entering 6th grade at JAMS (1:36). Next, math teacher Morgan Ruvolo helps demystify the math pathways that begin in middle school (30:42). We explore what math classes are offered at JAMS, how placement decisions are made, and how parents can best support their child for a successful (and less stressful!) math experience. Finally, we hear from Santa Monica High School advisor Amy Golden (42:29) about the transition from 8th to 9th grade and how Samohi guides students and families through this important next step.Please share this episode with any families who might be preparing for one of these big transitions!Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!

In this episode, we spotlight two of our school’s dynamic arts programs: Instrumental Music and the JAMS/SMASH Theatre Company. First (00:49), you’ll hear from Instrumental Music director Angela Woo, assistant director Sean Garneiter, and several student musicians as they share what makes our music program so exceptional. Then (36:25), we turn to the stage with theatre director Chad Sheppner, producer Amy Beeman-Solano, and cast members from the JAMS 2025 Spring musical, The Wizard of Oz, to learn about the rehearsal process, performance experience, and personal growth that come with being part of the theatre program. Whether your child is already involved or simply curious, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creativity, collaboration, and passion that fuel the arts at JAMS.Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!

In this episode, we explore two key extracurricular programs at JAMS: Middle School Sports and the Boys and Girls Club. First up, Athletic Coordinator for Santa Monica Schools Jason Hurd and JAMS Assistant Principal Joseph Eure talk with us about the school's competitive sports teams. Then you'll hear from Juliet Curry, Director of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica, who shares the many opportunities available to our students through the JAMS BGC’s before- and after-school program (segment begins at 21:52). Finally, we hear from our very own podcast producer, Dylan Tarazona, who mentors students in creating and producing their own music through the Boys and Girls Club’s Notes for Notes program (segment begins at 43:24). It’s a fun, info-packed episode—don’t miss it!Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!

This is the second episode in our two-part series exploring how JAMS fosters a positive school environment for our students. In today's show, we learn about  Restorative Justice and how it shapes student relationships and school culture at JAMS. We are joined by JAMS Assistant Principal Dr. Joseph Eure and SMMUSD's Restorative Justice Coordinator Rob Howard, who share about how this approach helps students resolve conflicts, take accountability, and build a more connected, respectful community. Tune in to learn how Restorative Justice is making a difference in our school!Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!

In today's episode, we are kicking off a two-part series exploring how our school fosters a positive learning environment for our students. Joining us to talk about Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) at JAMS are Principal Martha Chacon, Guidance Counselor Liz Cowgill, and JAMS students Victor and Fiona. From classroom lessons to campus-wide initiatives, SEL helps cultivate kindness, compassion, and a sense of community among students as they navigate middle school.Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!

In this episode, we sit down with AVID teacher Letitia Murphy and her students Mia and Jaden to learn how this transformative class for 7th and 8th graders equips students with tools for academic success and lifelong learning. We also hear from ASB teacher Amy Beeman-Solano and student leaders Jonathan and Ryan, who share insights into the leadership and creativity behind ASB's fun, engaging activities that bring the JAMS community together.Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!

Welcome to Hall Pass Podcast! We are excited to bring you a new way to connect with the John Adams Middle School community. Hosted by JAMS parents Erika Bell, Jill Cipresso and Jill Jurenka. Produced in partnership with Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes. Special thanks to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and Notes for Notes for their partnership in the production of this podcast. Also a shout-out to JAMS students and BGCSM members Leif and Oliver for creating our intro and outro music!