September Weekly Update
Week of Monday, September 1st - Friday, September 5th, 2025
Strong Start, Bright Future: Attendance Matters!!
🏫 Attendance & School Expectations
âś… Attendance
Be here every day! Call before 8:00 AM to report absences. Leave a voicemail if needed.
Excuse absences with a doctor/dental note or a note to the principal.
Too many unexcused absences may lead to an attendance contract and loss of activities.
⏰ Tardies
Be in class when the bell rings.
Late without a written excuse = tardy.
Repeated tardies may lead to detention or loss of privileges.
đźš¶ Passing Periods
3 minutes to get to your next class.
Walk directly—no lingering or visiting lockers.
Quick, orderly transitions = on-time, ready to learn!
đź’ˇ Tips for Success
Scan your ID every class.
Plan your route and use restroom breaks wisely.
Socialize after school or at lunch.
Remember: Every day and every minute counts toward your student’s success!
📆 Our Bell Schedule
October Count is Coming!
October Count officially begins the last week of September and continues throughout the entire month of October. This time is very important because student attendance during this window helps determine the funding our school receives for the year.
âś… Please make sure your student is present and on time every day.
âś… If your child must be absent, remember to call the attendance line.
Thank you for helping us make every day count—it truly supports our school community!
From the Principal’s Desk
Do you ever ask your middle schooler how their day was and only get “fine” or “good”? You’re not alone! The trick is to switch up the questions. Instead of “How was school?”, try: “What’s something funny that happened today?” or “If your day had a headline, what would it be?” Kids love telling stories when it doesn’t feel like a quiz.
You can also ask, “Who did you sit with at lunch?”, “What surprised you in class?”. The goal isn’t a full play-by-play, just opening the door. When we show we’re ready to listen, kids usually share more than we expect.
John Uridil, Principal
What is Second Step at Shaw?
🙌 A Big Shout-Out to Our Student Council!
SHMS Student Counci is a group of student representatives who work together to promote the interests of the student body. Their main responsibilities include organizing school events, representing student concerns to school administration, and fostering school spirit and community involvement. Currently, we are in the process of opening the Shaw Shop (open every day after school on Wed./Thurs) and just had our first meeting with Mr. Uridil outlining some of our ideas to keep our school amazing!
In the upcoming months, the council plans to continue enhancing communication between students and staff, organizing more inclusive activities, and initiating community service projects. Stay tuned for a great year, Falcons!
đź’» Chromebook Care: Protect Your Device!
Students, your Chromebook is an important tool for learning, and taking care of it is essential! Using a protective cover helps prevent scratches, cracks, and other damage. Always handle your Chromebook carefully—avoid dropping it, placing heavy items on top, or using it near food and drinks.
Remember, a well-cared-for Chromebook works better, lasts longer, and helps you stay on top of your schoolwork without interruptions. Let’s all do our part to keep our devices safe and ready for learning every day!
📚 September is National Literacy Month! 📚
This month, we celebrate the importance of reading and literacy in our students’ lives. Strong reading skills open the door to learning, imagination, and future success. Families can support literacy at home by setting aside just 20 minutes a day to read together, asking questions about what your child is reading, and encouraging them to explore books that match their interests. Let’s work together to build a love of reading that lasts a lifetime!
🌟 Spotlight on Ann McKee!
This month, we are shining our spotlight on Ann McKee, our incredible custodian! Ann works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure our school is not only clean but a safe and welcoming place for students, staff, and visitors. From sparkling hallways to tidy classrooms, her dedication does not go unnoticed.
Ann’s hard work and positive attitude make a huge difference every single day. She reminds us all that keeping our school spotless is not just about cleanliness—it’s about creating an environment where everyone can learn and thrive.
Next time you see Ann around school, give her a smile or a “thank you” for everything she does. Our school wouldn’t be the same without her!
đź’ˇ A Special Spotlight: Our Logistics Team!
We are proud to recognize our Logistics Team for their dedication and hard work. Their commitment ensures that our school runs smoothly each day, from organizing materials to supporting events and daily operations. Their efforts behind the scenes play a vital role in creating a positive and well-prepared environment for both students and staff. Thank you, Logistics Team, for everything you do!