By Ava Grippo – Editor-In-Chief

The 2026-2027 school year has begun and Jonathan Law Principal Mr. Darcy is looking forward to this new chapter. Advocate Editor-In-Chief Ava Grippo interviewed Darcy about the upcoming year. 

Ava Grippo: What are you most looking forward to this school year?

Mr. Darcy: I always look forward to seeing how students excel inside and out of the classroom. I’m always impressed with the ability of all of our students.  

AG: What are your hopes for the many new teachers this year?

MD: My hope is that all our new staff members will be lifelong learners just like all staff. We are here to support every student that walks into our school each day.  

AG: What is your advice for this year’s freshman class?

MD: My advice is to join a club, start a club, play an instrument, sing, play a sport. Do something that connects to our school community.  

AG: Do you have any advice for the seniors?

MD: My advice to the seniors is the same each year. Live in the moment! This year is going to fly by and I’d love for them to try to breathe, slow things down and enjoy every moment of their last year at JLHS.  

AG: What does it mean to be a Lawman?

MD: It means being there for yourself and others. It means advocating for the health and well being of everyone you come across. It’s a responsibility that continues long after you leave our school.  

AG:  What do you wish to improve on this year?

MD: I really want students to take control of their learning in each classroom. I want students to know who they are as learners, develop goals, and work with staff and each other to reach those goals.  

AG: How do you hope students benefit from the new cell phone ban?

MD: My hope is that it allows students to concentrate on their studies in a more efficient way, communicate more with each other and take a break from the toxicity that is on social media.  

AG: How will the construction affect the school year? 

MD: We have new classrooms, teachers sharing space and curriculum that is being adjusted this year. No matter what, our students and staff will work together to ensure we have a successful year. That’s what we do at Law.  

AG: What is the biggest complaint you are receiving about the new parking rules? 

MD: The only issue is that only seniors can currently park. I completely understand this concern, but as I’ve communicated from the beginning, this may change over the next few weeks.  

AG: Are there going to be any new changes this school year, other than the parking and phones, that students and parents should know about?

MD: There are changes every year that are positive ones too! We’ve changed a lot about how we operate as a school, support students and celebrate our community throughout my five years at JLHS. Each year is a new, fresh start and I can’t wait to see how we change to support everyone.