Cardinal Call

Welcome back to the 2026-2027 school year! The Sun Prairie East staff were hard at work last week getting our school ready for students to arrive. We can't wait to get the school year started. This week's Cardinal Call format has been adjusted slightly. We have general announcements at the top and important day one information in a lower section. Due to the volume of new school year related information, we wanted to make the newsletter easier to understand. Should you have any questions as the new year begins, please reach out to school staff. See you on Tuesday!

Sincerely,

Jim Ertel

Principal

We can't wait to see you on Tuesday!

Students! Please vote for this years homecoming theme. You can cast your vote using this google doc: LINK.

Linked below is the slide show from back to school night. Take a look if you were unable to attend.

We are trying to get a brand-new parent and caregiver-led SCO off the ground at at Sun Prairie East High School this school year! Similar to the SCOs across Sun Prairie elementary and middle schools, this group gives families a direct way to support our school community.

​Our Initial Focus:

• ​Staff Recognition & Meals: Coordinating snacks and meals during parent-teacher conferences.

• ​Staff Appreciation: Organizing special events to celebrate SPEHS educators and staff throughout the year.

​Meetings & Getting Involved:

Planning meetings will be held quarterly alongside school principals. The date and time for our very first meeting will be finalized soon and shared in an upcoming issue of the Cardinal Call.

​Want to stay in the loop, volunteer, or lend a hand? Join our email list to receive updates and meeting details:

• ​Email to Join: sunprairieeasthssco@gmail.com

Before Tuesday:

• Check your schedule in Infinite Campus TODAY. Schedules have changed over the last few weeks as we have been preparing for the first day of school. An older screenshot is likely NOT correct.
• The first day of school is an A DAY.
• Save a picture of the bell schedule in your phone so that you have it handy.

Below are the A/B day calendar for the 2025/2026 school year as well as our daily bell schedule.

As we all prepare for our fall schedules, starting with the first day of school on September 1 our building hours are as follows:

• Building opens at 8:00 AM: Students may enter the building at 8:00am and will remain in the commons until 8:20. Between 8:00-8:20 students may eat breakfast and socialize in the commons. At 8:20 students may begin to move to their classes.
• If your transportation situation makes it impossible to drop off your students later than 8:00, they will be allowed to stand in the vestibule (between the glass doors) until 8:00, particularly on inclement weather days

• Building closes at 4:05 PM: At 4:05pm the building closes daily. All students must be with an adult (coach, club/activity, 5th hour tutoring, etc) or leave the building for safety as we do not have supervision available after 4:05pm.

• Please plan rides and drop off/pick up accordingly.

Student Bike Parking Locations

• By door 22 on the west side of front entrance

Drivers Drop-off and Pick-up Location

• Drivers - always yield to walkers and bike riders.

• Drivers should enter via the front entrance of the school from Grove St or the rear entrance from Marshview Dr.

• Please drop off students at door 1 or door 6 prior to the start of the day. After 8:35 AM please use door 1 for drop off. After school, please use door 1 or door 6 for pick up.

Parking Areas

• Drivers - always yield to walkers and bike riders.

• Drivers who are visitors who need to park their vehicle and come into the school should park in the angled parking stalls at the front entrance of the school or in the visitor overflow lot outside of door 6.

• Once your vehicle is parked, please enter through the main entrance, door 1.

• Student Drivers who need to park and come into the school should park in the student parking lot

• Once your vehicle is parked, please enter through the main entrance, door 1.

Bus Drop-off and Pick-up Areas

• Buses will drop off and pick up students at door 16 or door 10 depending on the bus route

• Taxis will drop off and pick up students at the main entrance, door 1

• Specialized transportation will drop off students at door 6 and pick up students at door 8

Before School Gathering Locations

• When students arrive, they should proceed to commons

• Students should enter the school through the main entrance, door 1

After School Dismissing Locations

• Students should exit the school using any exit

MAPS here and with the following info:

• Bus transportation drop off and pick up areas are marked in YELLOW color.

• Areas for drivers to drop off and pick up students are marked in RED color.

• Main parking entry areas are marked in GREEN color.

• Staff parking areas are marked in ORANGE color.

• Visitor/student parking areas are marked in PURPLE color.

• Handicap parking areas are marked in BLUE color.

Preliminary transportation information is viewable in Infinite Campus by logging into Campus Parent, click on "More," then choose the Transportation tab. If the bus stop does not look accurate, please contact Kobussen. Pickup and drop off times are continually changing as new students enroll and other students move out of the district.

High School students will not have bus tags. If busing staff need to check route attendance, they will utilize Infinite Campus.

Please contact Brinda Thompson at brinda.thompson@kobussen.com or (608) 825-8700 ext. 5509, if you have questions or concerns about your child’s bus route or stop. If you have any other questions related to busing, please contact either Andrea Albrecht at alalbre@sunprairieschools.org or Rhonda Page at rspage@sunprairieschools.org. If your child is NOT going to ride the bus but is eligible please reach out to one of the people above.

If you have a cross-site class and need to take the shuttle, the schedule is below. Please note that there will likely be some stop adjustments at the middle schools as class enrollments are finalized.

This school year's copies of the student handbooks are linked below.

Linked below is our Bell-to-Bell no Cell poster. Student and staff expectations remain the same as they were for the 2025/2026 school year. For 2026/2027 we will continue to have posters and flyers in public spaces and classrooms. “Bell-to-Bell no Cell” is the theme for our focus on increasing the use of instructional time and improving scholar outcomes. When students return to school we will have lessons prepared for SP30 and content area classes about electronic device expectations. Our top priority continues to be teaching students how to use devices responsibly and to build skills around safe and productive technology use. Please look for more information in our welcome back packets!

At the High School level we do not have a standard school supply list. Many teachers will let your students know of any specific materials they will need for class during the first couple of days. To start the year please have your student bring a notebook/s, pens/pencils and their Chromebook (more information on Chromebooks to come). Many students also benefit from having a binder/s to organize their materials.

Some specific class requests can be found on our website under the "Academics" section.

If your student is planning to take PreCalculus, AP Calc, and/or AP Stats, they will benefit from having a graphing calculator, which can also be used for the ACT and in Algebra 2 math classes and beyond. The TI84+ or TI84+ CE are what most students use, but there are other types of graphing calculators as well. The school does have a limited number of graphing calculators available to be checked out, and priority is given to students in AP math classes. For students in other classes who wish to have a calculator, a scientific calculator such as the TI-30 is sufficient. Students will have access to online graphing calculators through their Chromebooks.

Dear Students and Families,

As we prepare to welcome our scholars back for the 2026–27 school year, we want to share an important new expectation for students in grades 9–12.

Beginning this school year, students will be expected to visibly wear their school-issued student ID on a lanyard from the first bell through the last bell each school day. This expectation will help support safe, welcoming, and consistent learning environments across our high schools. Having their ID readily available will give students access to various school spaces and activities throughout the school year while also creating a more connected school community.

We know this will be a new routine for many students. Throughout September, our focus will be on helping students understand the expectation and build the habit of wearing their ID each day. Beginning in October, students will be expected to consistently wear their ID throughout the school day. Your principal and school staff will share more details with students and families, including information about receiving IDs and lanyards and what this expectation will look like day to day at your school.

We appreciate your support as we introduce this new expectation for our scholars.

Dr. Antoine Reed
Superintendent

This year, students in grades 9–12 will wear their school-issued student ID on a lanyard throughout the school day. It’s a new routine, and we’ll spend the first several weeks helping students get comfortable with it.

A few things to know:

• IDs should be visible and worn from the first bell to the last bell.

• Lanyards have been purchased & ordered by each high school and will be distributed to students when they arrive.

• Students can use their own lanyard, but it must be a breakaway lanyard that has a clip in the back. See image to the right.

• IDs should be worn by students, not kept on a phone, Chromebook, or backpack.

• Lost IDs can be replaced for a $5 fee.

• We’ll spend September teaching and reinforcing the routine, with full implementation beginning in October.

• East administration is also buying button makers so students can swag out their lanyards. We plan to incorporate these new expectations into our PBIS process.

• More information about lanyard distribution and expectations will be coming in subsequent newsletters.

Fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and mental health support is essential to the Sun Prairie Area School District. To enhance our campus safety protocols, our district is transitioning to use a reporting system called Speak Up Speak Out (SUSO) for all safety concerns. In the past, we used SUSO specifically for reporting threats of school violence. Now, we are transitioning to use it for any safety-related concern.

What is Speak Up Speak Out?

Speak Up Speak Out is a comprehensive, confidential safety reporting system supported by state safety resources.

Students and families can use SUSO to report a wide range of concerns, including:

• Bullying, Cyberbullying, and Harassment

• Threats of School Violence or Weapons

• Peer Mental Health & Crisis Situations (e.g., self-harm, severe distress, depression)

• Drug or Alcohol Misuse

• Any Other Safety or Campus Concerns

• Empowers Student Voice: Gives students a direct, secure option to speak up when they notice concerning behavior online or in person.

• 100% Confidential Option: Removes the fear of social retaliation by allowing students to submit tips confidentially.

• Round-the-Clock Monitoring: Reports are monitored 24/7/365 to ensure urgent threats or mental health crises receive immediate attention.

• Collaborative Intervention: Connects school administrators, counselors, and local safety teams to provide targeted supports.

Accessing the Speak Up Speak Out portal is quick and straightforward:

• District Website: Click the Speak Up Speak Out link located on the main page of our district and school websites.

• Web Search: Search "SUSO Wisconsin" in any browser to reach the main reporting site.

• Bookmark this link so you have quick access if you ever need to use it.

We ask that you review this tool with your student and reinforce the message that reporting a concern can save lives, help our schools be safer spaces, and support peers in crisis.

Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping our schools safe.

• Information for Drivers Education is on the SPASD Drivers Ed website. We encourage folks to check the information on the site if there are questions.
• The $240 fee for Behind the Wheel is not waived. When the WI DOT Drivers Education Grant program is available, we send the information to all families of current 8-12 grade students.
• Families who would like to pursue a Private Driving School can find all WI Private Driving Schools on this link.

If you would like to order a yearbook for the 2026/2027 school year or have questions about how to do so, you can find the information here!

As a reminder, students need a school ID or they can show administration their IC profile on their phone for entrance at the student gate. Students are not required to wear their ID at athletic events.

9/1 - First Day of School

9/7 - Labor Day!

Attention seniors! There will be many senior-specific due dates and deadlines as we move through the year towards graduation. You can find senior class information on the senior website. Linked here.

Students, please make sure you have checked Infinite Campus for the latest version of your schedule. We have made some necessary adjustments, and it is possible that your schedule has changed. Please do not rely on an old screen shot. If you need to request a schedule change for an approved reason, please use this form. The last day to make schedule changes for first semester is September 15, 2026. AP Course Level changes must be completed by September 29th.

Early Graduation: Students interested in applying for early graduation should schedule a meeting with their counselor to review eligibility and other important considerations. The completed application form must be submitted to Student Services no later than 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 15th.

PreACT testing for 9th–11th graders on September 22rd. All students will report to school on September 22nd. More detailed information on this testing day will be communicated in future newsletters.

What is the PSAT/NMSQT?

The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT) (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is a test for our Juniors and can serve as a practice version of the SAT that helps you get familiar with the types of questions and format you’ll see on college entrance exams. It measures your skills in reading, writing, and math — the same skills that are important for college success. In addition, the NMSQT portion of the exam allows students to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program. High-performing juniors may earn recognition, scholarship opportunities, and academic distinctions that can strengthen college applications.

Is the PSAT required?
No, the PSAT is optional. You are not required to take it, and colleges do not ask for or look at your PSAT scores during the admissions process.

Why take the PSAT?
Even though it’s optional, here are some reasons why it can be beneficial for students:

• Practice for the SAT: The PSAT gives you a realistic test experience so you can see what to expect on the SAT and where you might want to improve.
  
  

• Scholarship opportunities: Juniors who take the PSAT may qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
  
  

• College readiness check: Your PSAT results can help you understand how prepared you are for college-level work and what skills to strengthen.

Can any grade level take it?

The test is intended for juniors; however, sophomores are welcome to take it for practice. Please note that only juniors are eligible for the National Merit Scholarship, so sophomores will not qualify for the National Merit Scholarship.

FEES?

$18.00 - The PSAT test fee must be paid through Infinite Campus. After the form closes, the fee will appear in Infinite Campus on Monday September 14, 2026. *Fee waivers may be available for qualifying students.

Accommodations Needed?

Students with disabilities who wish to apply for PSAT accommodations make their request in writing via email to the school’s PSAT coordinator by Monday August 31, 2026. The College Board will review applications and approve or deny requests that are made. The test date comes up early in the fall semester; therefore it is critical to start this process early. If you do not notify the PSAT coordinator by Monday August 31, 2026, that your child will need accommodations for the PSAT, your child will not receive accommodations for the test.

For accommodations, SP East students may contact Phau Thao (pthao@sunprairieschools.org) to initiate the request.

Important: If you would like to take the PSAT exam during the fall of the 2026 school year on Wednesday October 14th, 2026, please complete the attached Google form by 11:59 PM Friday, September 11, 2026. No exceptions.

For more details or questions, feel free to reach out to Ms. Thao at pthao@sunprairieschools.org

PSAT GOOGLE FORM (Student access only! Please use your Sun Prairie School Email Address to Sign Up)

Thinking about life after high school? Whether college, technical school, military, or other options, the Wisconsin Education Fair (WEF) is a great place to start!

Event Details:

📅 Thursday, October 15th, 2026

📍 Sun Prairie West High School

👥 Juniors & Seniors ONLY

What’s WEF?

Meet reps from 4-year colleges, 2-year/technical schools, military branches, and career programs. Get info on admissions, financial aid, housing, and more—all in one spot!

How to Attend:

● Juniors/Seniors must complete this Google Form: WEF 2026 Google Form Sign-Up

● The deadline to Sign-up is: Friday, October 2nd at 3:45 PM (No late forms accepted!)

Important:

● This is an authorized school trip with school transportation and supervision.

● Students may NOT drive themselves, except STEM Students.

● Bus Departure: 9:45am

● Bus Return: 11:30am

● This is an optional field trip, students will be expected to make up any work that was missed

during their absence from class.

Don’t miss this chance to explore your future! Questions? Please reach out to Mrs. Thao at

pthao@sunprairieschools.org

Electronic ticketing for our athletic events and dances will continue via GoFan this year. Concessions at our athletic events will operate CASHLESS beginning this school year.

Students- we are gauging interest in beginning a girls flag football team this year. Any girls interested, please fill out this google form: Girls Flag Football Interest Survey

We’re excited to welcome all of our families to a new school year! As we gear up for another exciting season of high school athletics & activities, we’re eager to support our student-athletes in representing our school community with pride, sportsmanship, and dedication. Our theme this year is, Better Together! Whether your student is joining a team or club for the first time or returning for another season, we’re here to ensure a positive and rewarding experience for all. Our office is located just inside the main doors and our office hours are M-F 8am- 4pm.

Fall Sport registration is currently open on Infinite Campus via the parent portal! Please make sure all athletic forms, including physicals, are up to date and submitted prior to tryouts or the first practice. As always, we expect families and athletes to review the Student-Athlete/Activities Code of Conduct Handbook, which outlines our additional expectations on top of the school handbook.

Let’s work together to make this a successful and memorable year!

Here are some helpful links for SPE Athletics:

Arbiter Master Athletic Schedule (formerly Rschool)

GoFan Ticketing

SP East Athletics Website

Big 8 Conference Website

Badger Conference Website

NFHS - Watch games LIVE here

Hudl - Watch games LIVE here

Feel free to call 608-834-6720 with any questions or email us at cardinalsathletics@sunprairieschools.org.

Thank you & Go Cards!

Jenna Boberg, CAA

Athletics & Activities Director

Facebook: Sun Prairie East Athletics

Instagram: spathleticsandevents

Twitter/X: @SPCardinals

Below is the SPASD carry-in policy for school district events. If you have questions regarding this policy, please reach out to the athletics and activities office.

Please see the linked information for upcoming contests.