The Spartan Family Newsletter

As we wrap up our first month of the school year, our students and staff have truly started hitting their stride. The energy in the building has been incredible, and we are proud of the positive momentum we’ve built together.

Some might say that around this time of year, the "honeymoon phase" begins to wind down. In every school, it is completely natural for students to settle in and gradually test boundaries or get a little more relaxed with the rules. However, as we continue to Set the Standard at Waldron, we are committed to keeping our expectations high every single day.

I have asked our teachers and staff to remain diligent in holding students accountable from hallway behavior and attendance to our cell phone policies. We know that a calm, structured, and respectful environment is essential for real learning to happen. Simply put: the fewer discipline issues and classroom disruptions we have, the higher the quality of education your children receive.

Our goal is not just to maintain order, but to protect your child’s instructional time and create a space where every student can thrive academically and socially.

We deeply appreciate your partnership at home. By reinforcing these same high expectations with your children by encouraging them to be punctual, engaged, and focused you help us maintain the strong, positive school culture our students deserve.

Thank you for your continued support as we work together to make this our best year yet!

It’s a great day to be a Spartan!

We are STRONGER TOGETHER!

Link to our Waldron School Store

Nothing beats seeing our students, staff, and community repping Spartan gear! Need to upgrade your wardrobe? Click the link above to check out the latest collection.

Spooky season is right around the corner! 👻 The PTT and administration are already planning a fun, free Halloween event for our community. To go all out, we need your help to make it amazing.

If you have large outdoor decorations we can borrow, please email Matt Furtney at matt.furtney@waldronspartans.org. Want to help plan, set up, or run the event (or join the PTT)? Email PTT Advisor Nichole DiCenso at nichole.dicenso@waldronspartans.org.

Thank you for your continued support. We can't wait to bring another great event to Waldron! 🎃

Bump, set, spike! Jets volleyball players and coaches are excited to serve up a great time at a fall Youth Volleyball Camp, happening Sunday, Sept. 20, 1- 4 p.m. in the Victor Cuiss Fieldhouse. Open to grades 3-8; $50 cost includes T-shirt. Cash and checks accepted at the door.

https://ow.ly/ImhH50ZAF0I

We have a Volleyball Tournament on Saturday, October 10th, and we need your help to make it a success!

• Parents: We’re looking for volunteers to help during the morning shift.

• Students: We need volunteers for the early afternoon shift.

Please use the link below to sign up for a slot:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A44A4A72EA3FDC52-65814837-game

Sept 16th - Waldron PTT meeting at 5 pm

Sept 16th - Waldron School Board Mtg 7pm in the Media Center

Sept 18th - 1st Popcorn Friday

Sept 18th - Hungry Howie's Pizza fundraiser (money and orders) are due.

Sept 25th - 1/2 Day for students

Sept 28th - NO SCHOOL - Fair Day

Sept 29th - NO SCHOOL - Fair Day

Oct 8th - Picture Day

Oct 15th - School Board Finance Mtg 6pm in the Media Center

Oct 16th - 1/2 Day for students

Oct 21st - Waldron School Board Mtg 7pm in the Media Center

Oct 30th - End of Marking Period 1

Oct 30th - Halloween Parade

Nov 5th - Conferences

Nov 6th - 1/2 Day

Nov 12th - School Board Finance Mtg 6pm in the Media Center

Nov 18th - Waldron School Board Mtg 7pm in the Media Center

Nov 25th - 1/2 Day

Nov 26th - NO SCHOOL - Thanksgiving

Nov 27th - NO SCHOOL

Dec 3rd - Picture Retake Day

Dec 10th - School Board Finance Mtg 6pm in the Media Center

Dec 16th - Waldron School Board Mtg 7pm in the Media Center

Dec 17th - 1/2 Day - Exams

Dec 18th - 1/2 Day - Exams

Dec 21-31 - NO SCHOOL - Christmas Break

Jan 1st - NO SCHOOL - New Year's Day

Jan 18th - NO SCHOOL - MLK Day - Possible weather make-up day

Exciting things are happening in STEAM at Waldron! Students are learning through hands-on challenges that combine science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics while building important skills in creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Students have been putting their engineering skills to the test with building challenges that require them to plan, design, construct, test, and improve their ideas. These activities encourage students to think outside the box, communicate with their teammates, and learn that sometimes the best designs come after a few tries.

One of the best parts of STEAM class is seeing students turn simple materials into creative solutions. Every challenge gives students a chance to experiment, learn from mistakes, and celebrate their successes.

There is much more to come this school year as students continue working on new STEAM projects and real-world engineering challenges. We are excited to see where their creativity takes them next!

Waldron’s sports for the week of Sept. 14 – Sept. 19

Monday (9/14) – No sports.

Tuesday (9/15) – HS Volleyball vs North Adams (Varsity Only) @ 5:30pm.

Wednesday (9/16) – JH Football vs Morenci @ 5pm, JH Volleyball vs Jackson Christian @ 5:30pm, HS Cross Country at Pittsford @ 5pm.

Thursday (9/17) – JV Volleyball vs Bird Lake Christian @ 5:30pm, Varsity Volleyball vs Burr Oak @ 6:30pm.

Friday (9/18) – HS Football at Morenci @ 7pm. Saturday (9/19) – HS Cross Country at Pittsford Invite @ 10am.

The Waldron PTT (Parent Teacher Team) is hosting a fundraiser for K-12 graders. The fundraiser is a Hungry Howies "Dough Raiser" An order form will be coming home on Monday. The certificates purchased are valid for a one Medium 1 Topping Pizza. These are great for those busy school nights and you need an easy dinner! The Fundraiser runs September 1st through September 18th. Please have all money and forms turned in on September 18th. All proceeds benefit the school for various project funding.

As you wrap up your school year, Hillsdale County Farm Bureau would like to provide you with a Save the Date for the fall Agriculture Career Day scheduled for Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at Nutrien Ag Solutions in Reading.

In Person Support

• Community Action Agency (Hillsdale County Branch)

  • Distance from Waldron: ~25 minutes north

  • What's offered: Free family support resources, developmental programs for young children, weatherization support, and financial counseling.

• Lenawee County Family Resource Center (Adrian, MI)

• Distance from Waldron: ~35–40 minutes northeast

• What's offered: Free play-and-learn groups for toddlers, parenting workshops, car seat safety inspections, and developmental screenings.

Online Support

Elementary breakfast will be served in the classrooms from 8:00 to 8:15 and HS/MS will have breakfast in the cafeteria from 7:40 to 7:55.

Elementary lunch in the cafeteria 11:00 to 11:30

MS/HS lunch in the cafeteria 11:30 to noon

The Waldron Daycare will be closed on Friday, Sept 4th and Monday. Sept. 7th in observance of Labor Day. We hope you have a wonderful long weekend.
If you are interested in your child(ren) attending the Waldron Daycare, enrollment forms are available in the main office. For questions regarding before-school care, please contact Tammy Fix at tammy.fix@waldronspartans.org.

For students that are wanting to join coding club please sign up in the office. The first meeting is Wednesday September 2 from 3-4pm. Coding Meetings will be held every Wednesday from 3-4pm, unless noted.

High School Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is a welcoming, student-centered group where high school students can come together to grow in their faith, build positive friendships, and encourage one another. Although FCA has its roots in athletics, students do not have to be an athlete to participate! All high school students are welcome.

During meetings, students will have opportunities to participate in short devotionals, Bible discussions, activities, and conversations focused on faith, leadership, character, and making positive choices. FCA provides a supportive environment where students can connect with their peers and explore how their Christian faith can be part of their everyday lives.

Our goal is to create a positive community where students feel welcomed, encouraged, and supported as they grow into confident and compassionate young adults.

High School Literature Club

High School Literature Club is a welcoming and engaging space for students who enjoy books, stories, writing, and discussing literature with others. Students do not have to be avid readers to join! Whether they love reading or simply want to explore new stories and genres, all high school students are welcome.

During meetings, students will have opportunities to discuss books and short stories, share recommendations, participate in creative activities, explore different genres, and connect with other students through a shared appreciation of storytelling. Activities may also include book-themed games, creative writing, movie discussions, and other fun literary experiences.

Our goal is to create a relaxed and positive environment where students can build friendships, express their ideas, discover new interests, and develop a lifelong appreciation for reading and literature.

High School Dungeons & Dragons Club

High School Dungeons & Dragons Club is a fun, welcoming space where students can use their creativity, imagination, and problem-solving skills through collaborative storytelling. No previous Dungeons & Dragons experience is required! Whether students are experienced players or completely new to the game, all high school students are welcome.

During meetings, students will work together to create characters, explore imaginative worlds, solve challenges, make decisions, and tell stories as a team. Dungeons & Dragons encourages important skills such as communication, cooperation, critical thinking, creativity, leadership, and respectful decision-making.

Our goal is to provide students with a positive and inclusive environment where they can make new friends, express their creativity, build confidence, and—most importantly—have fun together!

If you have any questions regarding these clubs, please reach out.

OK2SAY is a 24/7 confidential safety tipline for reporting threats against students or schools. Contact them by phone at 855-565-2729, text at 652729, email at okaytosay@mi.gov, the OK2SAY app, or via their website.

As part of our ongoing efforts to improve school safety and daily operations, we are implementing a few updates to our morning drop-off routine.
- Building Opening Time: Doors will open at 7:30 a.m.
- Early Arrival & Before-School Care: Please note that morning supervision with Mrs. Brenda is no longer available prior to 7:30 a.m. If your child needs to arrive before 7:30 a.m., our on-site daycare is available for a fee. Children must be officially enrolled prior to attending; enrollment forms are available in the main office. For questions regarding before-school care, please contact Tammy Fix at tammy.fix@waldronspartans.org.
- Morning Supervision (7:30 a.m. – Bell): Once students are dropped off after 7:30 a.m., they will head directly outside to the playground for morning recess with Mrs. Olivia. In the event of rain or extreme cold, students will gather in the elementary gym until the school day begins.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation and support in keeping our mornings running smoothly!

As we start the 2026/2027 school year, I would like to remind everyone about the Student Handbook Dress Code. Please know that all students and staff are required to abide by the dress code set forth by the school district. While we understand that some parents might not fully agree with every aspect of the policy, it is part of our official code of conduct and must be followed.

It is never our intention to embarrass or humiliate any student regarding their attire. Should a situation arise, we will always offer an alternative clothing item at school before reaching out to ask a parent or guardian to bring a change of clothes.

If you would like to review the full details, you can view the student code of conduct at the link below. The dress code section can be found on pages 30 and 31:

Waldron Dress Code

If you ever have any questions or concerns regarding the dress code, please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly.

We are so glad to have you visit and hope you feel welcomed in our building! To best ensure the safety of our students and staff and maintain the daily flow, we have a couple of important requests for visitors:
When you arrive, please use the front doors to check in and sign out at the main office.

Please do not leave your vehicle unattended in the front bus loop during the busy morning drop-off or afternoon dismissal times. We need to keep this lane clear for our buses to maneuver safely and efficiently.

If you are late dropping off your student, after 8am, please be sure to drop them off at the front door. All other doors will be locked at 8am, we can't have any students standing at the door waiting for someone to come let them in. Thank you for help with this.

Your cooperation with these small matters is greatly appreciated!

How to Sign Up for Kroger Community Rewards - benefits Waldron Special Education Classrooms

1. Go to Kroger App

2. Click on person icon in Top Left corner

3. Click on Payments and Resources

4. Click on Community Rewards

5. Type in DW074 to choose Organization or type in Waldron Special Education Classrooms.

6. Click Enroll button

7. Thank you for your support!

As we kick off the new school year, our top priority is providing a safe, engaging, and distraction-free learning environment for all students. With research showing the significant impact of personal screen time on classroom focus and student well-being, we are implementing a district-wide Cell Phone & Personal Technology Policy.

We ask for your partnership and support in reviewing these guidelines with your child before the school year begins.

Important Legal Notice: State Law Mandate

Please be aware that this policy is governed by state law, which mandates restrictions on personal telecommunications devices in public school classrooms. Waldron Area Schools is legally obligated to implement and strictly enforce these requirements. We appreciate your full support and cooperation in helping us comply with state regulations to maintain a focused learning environment for every student.

Policy by Grade Level

Elementary Students

• No Phones Allowed: Elementary students are not permitted to bring cell phones or personal communication devices into the school building.

Middle & High School (MS/HS) Students

• Classroom "Pouch" System: Students may bring cell phones, smartwatches, wireless headphones/earbuds, and other devices to school, but they are strictly prohibited from having them on their person during class time.

• Passing Periods & Lunch: Students are permitted to use their technology responsibly between classes and during lunch.

• Restrooms & Locker Rooms: For privacy and safety, cell phones and personal technology are strictly prohibited in all bathrooms and locker rooms at all times.

How the Classroom System Works (MS/HS)

To ensure consistency across every classroom, we are using a Wall Pouch System:

1. Classroom Arrival: Upon entering every class period, students will immediately place their phone, smartwatch, and headphones into an assigned, numbered pouch on the wall chart.

2. Instructional Focus: Devices must remain in the assigned pouch for the entire class period.

3. Out-of-Class Passes: Students leaving the room during class (e.g., to use the restroom or visit the office) are not permitted to take their technology with them.

4. End of Class: Students retrieve their devices when the end-of-period bell rings.

Consequences (MS/HS)

To keep expectations fair and clear, the following steps will be taken if a student chooses not to place their technology in their designated pouch during class:

Offense and Action Taken

1st Offense

2nd Offense

3rd Offense

4th Offense

📞 How to Reach Your Child During the School Day

We understand that parents sometimes need to contact their children during the day. To help us maintain an uninterrupted learning environment, please keep the following options in mind:

• For Urgent Messages or Emergencies: Please call the Main Office directly at 517-286-6251. Our staff will immediately get a message to your child or bring them to the office.

• For Non-Urgent Messages: Feel free to text or message your child! They are welcome to check their phone and respond during passing periods or their scheduled lunch break.

Thank you for your cooperation and continued support in helping our students stay focused, engaged, and successful this school year! As always, if you have any questions, please reach out to me: Matt.Furtney@waldronspartans.org.