SMS Parents and Guardians, 

We are excited to kick off the 2025–2026 school year and welcome back our returning students as well as those joining us for the first time.

Wednesday, August 13 – First Day for Sixth Grade

• Upon arrival, sixth graders will report to Gym #2 to pick up their class schedule.
• After receiving their schedule, students will go to their first-hour advisory class or breakfast.
• In the morning, students will run through a shortened version of their class schedule.
• Afternoon activities will follow.

Wednesday, August 13 – New Student Orientation (7th & 8th Grade)

• Any new 7th or 8th grade students are invited to attend orientation from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Thursday, August 14 – First Day for 7th & 8th Grade

• Upon arrival, students will report to Gym #2 to pick up their class schedule.
• Students will then go to their first-hour advisory class or breakfast.

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Additional Reminders

• Pick-Up and Drop-Off – Before and after school are busy times. Parents should not enter the front or back parking lot for drop-off or pick-up. Please park on the side of the school near the sidewalks.
  • Doors open at 7:15 a.m.
  • All students should be off school property by 3:10 p.m.
• Athletic Event Attendance – New this year, all SMS students may attend any of our home athletic events free of charge. This only applies to SMS-hosted events.
• Cougar Webstore – SMS apparel is available for purchase by families and staff through our online webstore.
  • The last day to order is September 2.
  • https://messengerclothing.chipply.com/31675/?action=viewall
• Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) – We welcome all parents and guardians to join. Membership is free.
  • First meeting: Wednesday, August 20, 12:00 p.m. in the SMS conference room.
  • PTO Sign-Up Form 
• Important Dates
  • Monday, August 18 – 3:00 p.m.: First day of fall sports practices (football, volleyball, girls tennis, cross country)
  • Tuesday, August 19 – 6:00 p.m.: Band instrument checkout
  • Thursday, August 21 – 6:30 p.m.: Open House / Back-to-School Night
  • Thursday, August 28: School Picture Day

We look forward to a fantastic school year ahead!

Dustin Dooley, Principal