Principal's Mid-Month memo
💘 February, 2026 💘
As we navigate Frigid February, I was a bit disappointed that Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow on February 2, predicting six more weeks of winter. However, the great things happening at SHS are keeping our spirits high and our hearts warm.
The SurveyWorks link for families will be shared when we return from break. Please take a moment to view the short video below, which explains the purpose of the survey. Students will complete the survey during advisory, and teachers and staff will participate throughout the month of March. This feedback is an important part of our School Improvement Planning for the 2026–2027 school year.
Until spring arrives (any day now… we hope), stay warm, stay healthy, and remember—according to Phil, winter still has a lesson plan it hasn’t finished yet!
-Ms. Ward
👀 Did you know... ?
Jenny Han, author of To All the Boys I've Loved Before, worked as a middle school librarian while working on the first book in this series?! 📚
Attendance Update...
The second quarter has come to a close, and we are proud to celebrate our students who demonstrated excellent attendance! Despite the challenges of cold and flu season, 167 students rose to the occasion and earned a special treat right before winter break.
Students qualified by having no unexcused absences, fewer than four tardies, and no more than one dismissal during the quarter. Their commitment to being present and engaged truly paid off — and our collective efforts are working!
We are also thrilled to share that Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green extended special recognition to Smithfield High School for demonstrating the most improved average attendance rate in the state from the previous week (January 26–30, 2026), with an impressive 3.66% increase in weekly attendance.
Thank you to our students, families, and staff for continuing to prioritize attendance. Being present matters, and our Sentinels are showing up strong!
Congratulations to Dr. Thibodeau on earning his Doctorate in Education Practice and STEM Innovation! As a dedicated member of our Science Department, Dr. Thibodeau’s commitment to pursuing an advanced degree exemplifies the value of lifelong learning. His achievement serves as an inspiring reminder to our students that growth doesn’t stop—it evolves. Congratulations, Dr. Thibodeau, on this outstanding accomplishment!
