“Learning about the past helps us understand who we are today” is the inquiry statement Grade 2 social studies students examined through the lenses of innovation, technology, and their own family history. Other objectives of this social studies unit included understanding the significance of oral history and how to engage in collaborative discussion when interviewing a source. By listening to stories and memories shared by parents, grandparents, and even great grandparents, students discovered that their family’s history provides insight into their values, traditions, and culture.
“Learning about the past helps us understand who we are today” is the inquiry statement Grade 2 social studies students examined through the lenses of innovation, technology, and their own family history. Other objectives of this social studies unit included understanding the significance of oral history and how to engage in collaborative discussion when interviewing a source. By listening to stories and memories shared by parents, grandparents, and even great grandparents, students discovered that their family’s history provides insight into their values, traditions, and culture.
Our school is committed to fostering a community where every individual feels a true sense of belonging and connection. Through intentional programs, initiatives, and resources like our newsletter, Culture Corner, which explores themes of identity, culture, and belonging, we create opportunities for students, employees, families and future community members to feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether through campus activities, clubs, assemblies, conversations, or the books we share, we strive to promote awareness, acceptance, and meaningful connections. One of our cornerstone initiatives is the Family Program, which brings together students across grade levels, along with faculty and staff, into “families” that remain constant throughout a child’s journey at JTD. Through family assemblies and shared experiences, these groups build lasting relationships, creating moments of joy, connection, and mutual understanding.
A combination of excited squeals and less-than-excited moans filled the air during the Grade 5 inSTED squid dissection in mid-November. As part of the “Plant and Animal Structures” unit, JTD scientists spent time digging deep into the structure and function of the living things around us.
Hayley Roberts, Director of Teaching and Learning at The John Thomas Dye School, has been recognized as a 2024 Educator Honoree by TeachAAPI for her exceptional commitment to advancing education and her advocacy for inclusive, culturally responsive teaching. With more than 25 years of experience in various educational roles—ranging from administrator and curriculum developer to instructional coach and teacher—Hayley has continually demonstrated her dedication to fostering equitable learning environments.
From academics to character development, at The John Thomas Dye School we strive to educate the whole child. As our Grade 4 students enter the world of Upper School, they are learning who they are in our school community while trying on various aspects of their identity.
Since its founding in 1985, The Independent School Alliance has been a champion of educational equity in Southern California, focused on recruiting, educating, counseling, and advocating for families from racially underrepresented and economically under-resourced communities. The John Thomas Dye School shares a long, collaborative history with the Alliance that began when the School’s former head, Ray Michaud, spearheaded the creation of the organization and worked with other Los Angeles independent schools to ensure its success. Today, The Alliance has over 50 member schools and has served over 4,500 students in its four decade history.
Music for Lunch Bunch, the quarterly school talent show, is a treasured JTD community event. Once fitting into the school day during lunch, the School now has four dedicated Music for Lunch Bunch assemblies throughout the school year, when our whole community comes together to watch students of all ages share their talents with one another.
There’s nothing more wonderful (or creatively stimulating) than the start of a new school year – excited students, fresh supplies, and of course… blank bulletin boards in John Dye Hall just waiting to host an array of original artwork!
At JTD, we are deeply committed to our mission: "We look to each day with a commitment to inspire purposeful learning, cultivate character, and celebrate childhood." Nowhere in our mission, however, does it say that we have to look to each day from 11414 Chalon Road, or that purposeful learning and character can only develop within the classroom!
We had the opportunity to catch up with Sabrina Singh ‘99, the Deputy Press Secretary at the Department of Defense. Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to public service and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
BBQs, talent shows, creative crafts, exciting science experiments, cartwheels, LEGO, flag football games, dolls going camping… During the first session of the JTD Summer Program, our campus was buzzing! Rising Grade 1 students to recent JTD graduates were busy exploring, playing, and experiencing the pure joy of childhood. The atmosphere was electric with excitement and happiness!
As is JTD Tradition, alumni who are wrapping their Senior year of high school came back to campus alongside their parents for the annual Off to College Reunion.
With over 30 years with The John Thomas Dye School's youngest students, longtime teacher Addy Porter was celebrated as she finished her last year in the classroom.
In honor of Black History Month, JTD hosted a series of events throughout the month of February to celebrate the rich culture of the Black community. In Library class, parents, faculty, and staff were invited to participate in the National African American Read-In, where the adults in our community read stories to students by Black authors featuring Black characters. Students then completed follow-up reflection activities guided by our Librarian.
The gym was filled with excitement on Tuesday, February 13 during a lively Tae Kwon Do performance. In celebration of Lunar New Year, Triple J, a group of 15 talented middle school-aged performers, showcased Korean culture and identity to our community.
Our third gathering as JTD families gave us an opportunity to learn about and celebrate Diwali. Grade 6 students took the reins and led a discussion about the significance of Diwali. They shared stories from Indian mythology, explaining the triumph of good over evil and the return of Lord Rama after defeating the evil king Ravana.
Few things are more fun than Halloween at JTD! The day is jam-packed with activities, games, and of course, CANDY. From sunrise, as the first Harry Potter arrives on campus, to sunset, when the last beleaguered teacher leaves, October 31 at JTD is a nonstop spooky-themed celebration. This year’s party was no exception.
What is identity? How is identity developed? How does identity affect our relationships? What makes me who I am? Why and how do identities change over time? These are the important questions Grade 4 students asked themselves as they began their social justice unit focusing on identity.
The offices and work stations of JTD came alive as second grade students celebrated their social studies unit on community helpers with a fun project that took them out of their classrooms and into unexplored parts of the school. These inquisitive learners took on the role of interviewers, and turned the spotlight on our dedicated staff members. Armed with curiosity and notebooks, they posed thoughtful questions to JTD’s administrators, business office staff, maintenance team, and many other behind-the-scenes community helpers. The interviews were not just an educational exercise but an opportunity to show appreciation for the heroes who keep our school running smoothly.
Our community has grown over the years, so it's possible that we've missed something remarkable. If you are an Alumni, parent, past parent, or just someone who knows of a shareable JTD moment, please submit it to us to be featured on our site and social channels!
The John Thomas Dye School admits students of any race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic or other school-administered programs.
Located In Los Angeles, CA, John Thomas Dye is an independent school for grades K-6. Students benefit from a challenging academic program, fine arts, competitive athletics, and a wide selection of extracurricular activities.