By: Will Mallory ’20

Morning Joe with Jon is an open forum discussion between Head of Middle School Jon Wimbish and grade-level parents. This is the second year that Wimbish has been hosting these discussions, and they are held on different dates for each grade.
In Morning Joe with Jon, the content of the discussion is specifically decided on by the parents.
“This event is unique because there is no agenda that I bring with me to address. It is completely and entirely up to the parents what they want to discuss,” Wimbish said.
At the beginning of the meeting, parents suggest a few ideas about topics they want to discuss, whether it be academics, sports, arts or another topic. Then, they focus on three to four topics that seem to interest the group the most and hold an open discussion. In the discussion, parents may ask questions relating to the topic at hand.
“I started Morning Joe with Jon because I felt like it was an efficient way for me to hear the parents’ questions and concerns for their child,” Wimbish said.
The meeting lasts for about an hour. Wimbish said he enjoys hearing the parents’ view on certain topics and compare them with the students’ main concerns. At the end of the meeting, Wimbish closes out with a quick summary about what was discussed.
“I think it is the most effective way to get an idea of the parents’ main concerns in a short enough period to not disrupt with other obligations,” Wimbish said.
The ninth grade meeting took place on Wednesday, the seventh grade will take place on March 9, and the eighth grade on April 20. Wimbish said that he decided to space them out so he can spend time focusing on the feedback and concerns the parents addressed and how to make the school a better place for everyone.
“I wanted to make sure I paid enough time and work on each grade. The meetings are scheduled well in advance so we can get the most parents as possible to attend,” Wimbish said.