U.S. News & World Report just named J. Graham Brown School the #2 high school in Kentucky and the #176 high school in the U.S. Congratulations to our staff and students!
Parents, please complete the Educational Benefits Form today if you have not already done so. This form helps ensure our school receives essential state and federal funding for educational programs, resources, and staffing that support our students. Every completed form matters—thank you for taking a few minutes to submit yours today! https://jcps.me/EBF
💡 DID YOU KNOW | JCPS has adopted a Language Access Plan (LAP), available in multiple languages, to help ensure multilingual students, families, and employees can communicate effectively and access district services and information in their preferred language.
View the LAP: https://www.canva.com/design/DAG2bBklRnQ/3r-5oYH2VnEDGflVdbC5PQ/view?utm_content=DAG2bBklRnQ&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hfa48bdac12
Available in multiple languages: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FSP9gKb5lplKaJpYFC3WZrHpgf5puE6U/view?ts=6a724033
The LAP explains the language support services, resources, and communication assistance available throughout the district. It also describes how JCPS provides interpretation and translation services, approved language-access technology, employee training, and multilingual communication practices across schools and programs.
If employees prefer to communicate in a language other than English, they can contact their immediate supervisor for work-related communication within their department or the appropriate district department when seeking assistance from another district office, such as Human Resources.
Schools, programs, and departments may request language support services through the Language Services Office to facilitate communication with students, families, and employees who prefer to communicate in a language other than English.
To learn more about the LAP, information about language support services, and district language access resources, visit the JCPS Language Services webpage: https://jeffersoncpsky.sites.thrillshare.com/o/jcps/page/language-services
View the LAP: https://www.canva.com/design/DAG2bBklRnQ/3r-5oYH2VnEDGflVdbC5PQ/view?utm_content=DAG2bBklRnQ&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hfa48bdac12
Available in multiple languages: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FSP9gKb5lplKaJpYFC3WZrHpgf5puE6U/view?ts=6a724033
The LAP explains the language support services, resources, and communication assistance available throughout the district. It also describes how JCPS provides interpretation and translation services, approved language-access technology, employee training, and multilingual communication practices across schools and programs.
If employees prefer to communicate in a language other than English, they can contact their immediate supervisor for work-related communication within their department or the appropriate district department when seeking assistance from another district office, such as Human Resources.
Schools, programs, and departments may request language support services through the Language Services Office to facilitate communication with students, families, and employees who prefer to communicate in a language other than English.
To learn more about the LAP, information about language support services, and district language access resources, visit the JCPS Language Services webpage: https://jeffersoncpsky.sites.thrillshare.com/o/jcps/page/language-services
Happy Wednesday!
The August 12th issue of The Bear Essentials is here for you! Find out more about Club J, another after-school childcare opportunity, meet more of our new staff, and learn about the new i-Ready Diagnostic that students in grades K-10 will take this year. Have a great day!
https://sites.google.com/jefferson.kyschools.us/be-26-27/august-12
🚌 485-RIDE NOW CLOSED | The JCPS 485-RIDE Bus Hotline has closed for the 2026-27 school year. JCPS families who have transportation-related questions can reach out to their child's school for assistance or check out http://jcpsfirstday.com for frequently asked questions and resources.
If you haven't already, download the My Ride K-12 app and add your student to track bus locations in real time, check route schedules, and view substitute bus numbers.
Learn more: https://jefferson.kyschools.us/article/2895007
If you haven't already, download the My Ride K-12 app and add your student to track bus locations in real time, check route schedules, and view substitute bus numbers.
Learn more: https://jefferson.kyschools.us/article/2895007
📸 FIRST DAY IN PHOTOS | Looking back at Thursday's big smiles as we step into our first full week of the 2026-27 school year! Let's keep that first-day energy going in every classroom across the district. 💛✏️
Greetings! My name is An Tran and I am excited to join the J. Graham Brown School as a high school Chemistry teacher and 8th grade science teacher.
I am originally from Vietnam where I went to the University of Science - Vietnam National University to pursue my Bachelor’s degree in chemistry. I later moved to Louisville, KY where I was granted both of my Bachelor and Mater of Science in chemistry from the University of Louisville. When I was in Vietnam, I used to be an English tutor for a nine-year-old boy. The experience has sparked my interest in becoming a teacher.
I believe every child possesses unique strengths and potential; and education serves as the bridge that transforms curiosity into knowledge and opportunities into success. By fostering collaboration, open communication, and creativity in my classroom, I strive to create a supportive and engaging learning environment where all students can thrive. I look forward to contributing to the success and growth of the students at Brown High School to the best of my ability.
I am originally from Vietnam where I went to the University of Science - Vietnam National University to pursue my Bachelor’s degree in chemistry. I later moved to Louisville, KY where I was granted both of my Bachelor and Mater of Science in chemistry from the University of Louisville. When I was in Vietnam, I used to be an English tutor for a nine-year-old boy. The experience has sparked my interest in becoming a teacher.
I believe every child possesses unique strengths and potential; and education serves as the bridge that transforms curiosity into knowledge and opportunities into success. By fostering collaboration, open communication, and creativity in my classroom, I strive to create a supportive and engaging learning environment where all students can thrive. I look forward to contributing to the success and growth of the students at Brown High School to the best of my ability.
🎒📚 WELCOME BACK, JCPS | Happy first day of school! We’re so excited to kick off the 2026-27 school year.
📸 Don’t forget to share your back-to-school moments with us on social media using #JCPSFirstDay!
📸 Don’t forget to share your back-to-school moments with us on social media using #JCPSFirstDay!
🎒 SCHOOL STARTS TOMORROW | We can't wait to welcome students tomorrow, Thursday, August 6, for the first day of school!
Tips to help you start the year off strong:
🔗 Visit www.jcpsfirstday.com for important back-to-school information and answers to frequently asked questions.
🚍 Continue checking your child's bus stop up until tomorrow morning as routes are subject to change.
📞 Call 485-RIDE with transportation-related questions.
Tips to help you start the year off strong:
🔗 Visit www.jcpsfirstday.com for important back-to-school information and answers to frequently asked questions.
🚍 Continue checking your child's bus stop up until tomorrow morning as routes are subject to change.
📞 Call 485-RIDE with transportation-related questions.
Hello, my name is Alex Hummel and I am thrilled to be the Elementary and Middle School PE/Health Teacher. This will be my first year in education as I just graduated from the University of Louisville… Go Cards.
I have had a lifelong passion for physical education and health and believe that every student deserves the opportunity to build confidence, stay active, and develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime. My goal is to create a positive, engaging and inclusive environment where every student feels welcomed, encouraged and excited to participate.
Outside of school, I enjoy playing golf, coaching basketball, and spending time with family and friends. I was born and raised in Louisville and graduated from Male High School.
I can’t wait to meet all of our students and families and become part of the Brown Community. I am looking forward to an amazing school year filled with learning, movement, teamwork, and fun.
“Success isn’t about being the best. It’s about being better than you were yesterday.”
Let’s have a fantastic year!
I have had a lifelong passion for physical education and health and believe that every student deserves the opportunity to build confidence, stay active, and develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime. My goal is to create a positive, engaging and inclusive environment where every student feels welcomed, encouraged and excited to participate.
Outside of school, I enjoy playing golf, coaching basketball, and spending time with family and friends. I was born and raised in Louisville and graduated from Male High School.
I can’t wait to meet all of our students and families and become part of the Brown Community. I am looking forward to an amazing school year filled with learning, movement, teamwork, and fun.
“Success isn’t about being the best. It’s about being better than you were yesterday.”
Let’s have a fantastic year!
🎒 BACK-TO-SCHOOL PREP | Superintendent Dr. Brian Yearwood and district leaders met with media today to share key plans and updates for the 2026-27 school year.
📺 Watch the press conference: https://youtu.be/vbVnqP-a83Y
🔗 Read more: https://www.jefferson.kyschools.us/article/3059185
📺 Watch the press conference: https://youtu.be/vbVnqP-a83Y
🔗 Read more: https://www.jefferson.kyschools.us/article/3059185
Hello! My name is Daniel Martin. I am very excited to be the 4th and 5th grade band teacher this year at Brown. This is my 28th year in education. In the past I have worked as an elementary music teacher, middle school band director, an assistant principal, and a math intervention teacher. I like to read, play chess and other games, and I love spending time with my family. I'm looking forward to a great year of instrumental music at Brown.
Don't forget to join the Brown School PTSA on Tuesday 8/4 at 2:30 PM for the first All Parent Meeting of the school year. Please RSVP here so we have enough ice cream for all who attend: https://forms.gle/LVij6rQzhLAxES3x6
Salutations and greetings! My name is Jonas Stephens and I am so very excited to be the new 6th grade Social Studies teacher at J. Graham Brown School.
Born in Louisville but raised In Morrow, Georgia I returned here during my senior year of high school, graduating JCPS from Valley High in the late 1900’s. After a few decades in development I eventually settled down and decided it was time to start a family and complete degree work. I have three amazing daughters - Chloe (31), Edith (17), and Maeve (14). When we aren’t hard at work we can be found on adventures - we are wanderers at heart and love to investigate, explore, and learn. I also earned a Bachelor’s Degree in History and then Master’s in Education specializing in Middle School Social Studies and Science from the University of Louisville.
This will be my 14th year teaching in JCPS, having spent one year at T.T. Knight and twelve at Westport Middle, a place where I came to understand the benefits of a genuinely supportive community - for both students and staff. I bring to the classroom a philosophy of patience, open mindedness, and the importance of relationships as well as a genuine love of exploring the uniqueness of various cultures. This is going to be an absolutely fantastic new adventure for us all!
Born in Louisville but raised In Morrow, Georgia I returned here during my senior year of high school, graduating JCPS from Valley High in the late 1900’s. After a few decades in development I eventually settled down and decided it was time to start a family and complete degree work. I have three amazing daughters - Chloe (31), Edith (17), and Maeve (14). When we aren’t hard at work we can be found on adventures - we are wanderers at heart and love to investigate, explore, and learn. I also earned a Bachelor’s Degree in History and then Master’s in Education specializing in Middle School Social Studies and Science from the University of Louisville.
This will be my 14th year teaching in JCPS, having spent one year at T.T. Knight and twelve at Westport Middle, a place where I came to understand the benefits of a genuinely supportive community - for both students and staff. I bring to the classroom a philosophy of patience, open mindedness, and the importance of relationships as well as a genuine love of exploring the uniqueness of various cultures. This is going to be an absolutely fantastic new adventure for us all!
I am Carolyn Luckett, the new middle school science teacher. I am thrilled to join the J. Graham Brown School Family while entering my 9th year of teaching. I am originally from Virginia, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in science from Marymount University and a master’s degree from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). I was a collegiate basketball player which led me to my first career as a college basketball coach. After 7 years of coaching, I found my second and forever career as a teacher. Coming from a family of teachers, this profession was always my destiny. I am privileged to serve as an educator and embrace the pressure of nurturing young minds. “Pressure is a privilege” -Billie Jean King
When I'm not engaged in the scientific method with your children, I love spending time with my own family, including our daughter, Willa (4) and our son Danny (4 months). We love our little “homestead” with a full garden, chickens, a cat, and our favorite “Nanny dog” Bo! I enjoy building, cooking, and all things science. I am so excited to share that passion with my new school family, fostering the next generation of passionate scientists. As I like to remind my daughter, “Everyone can be a scientist. All you need is curiosity!” I am looking forward to a wonderful school year. See you soon!
When I'm not engaged in the scientific method with your children, I love spending time with my own family, including our daughter, Willa (4) and our son Danny (4 months). We love our little “homestead” with a full garden, chickens, a cat, and our favorite “Nanny dog” Bo! I enjoy building, cooking, and all things science. I am so excited to share that passion with my new school family, fostering the next generation of passionate scientists. As I like to remind my daughter, “Everyone can be a scientist. All you need is curiosity!” I am looking forward to a wonderful school year. See you soon!
🎒 ONE WEEK TO GO | The countdown is officially ON! We are just one week away from welcoming JCPS students back for the 2026–27 school year.
Dust off those backpacks, double-check those supply lists, and get ready for a great year! 🎉
Dust off those backpacks, double-check those supply lists, and get ready for a great year! 🎉
We have just over a week until the first day of school! Be sure to read the latest issue of Bear Essentials to make sure you don't miss anything. Have a great week!
https://sites.google.com/jefferson.kyschools.us/be-26-27/july-29
🚍 485-RIDE IS OPEN | Have transportation-related questions? The JCPS 485-RIDE bus hotline is now open! Please note 485-RIDE is a temporary hotline, and hours are subject to change.
2026 485-RIDE Hotline Hours:
Tuesday, July 28, 2026: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wednesday, July 29, 2026: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Thursday, July 30, 2026: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Friday, July 31, 2026: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Monday, August 3, 2026: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tuesday, August 4, 2026: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wednesday, August 5, 2026: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Thursday, August 6, 2026: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday, August 7, 2026: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Monday, August 10, 2026: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Tuesday, August 11, 2026: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Wednesday, August 12, 2026: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
🚌 ADD YOUR STUDENT | JCPS families will have a new tool to track their students' school bus for the 2026-27 school year. With My Ride K-12, you can see exactly where the bus is on a live map and get accurate, real-time ETAs sent straight to your phone.
Download the app now, and add your student to your account. Learn more in the link below.
https://www.jefferson.kyschools.us/article/2895007
Attend one of our registration sessions this week and start the school year off on the right foot! Join us on July 29th or 30th from 9:00 to 11:00 AM /12:00 to 2:00 PM. This is a great opportunity to pick up class schedules/teacher assignments, get car rider tags, pay fees, buy school spirit wear, purchase a student parking permit, join the PTSA or Athletic Boosters, turn in paperwork, and more!
Families attending K Camp or 6th Grade Camp will have an opportunity to attend registration at those times.
Families attending K Camp or 6th Grade Camp will have an opportunity to attend registration at those times.
