Fins Up Newsletter
McKissick Academy of Science and Technology - 9.5.25
September 5, 2025
Happy Friday, Shark Families!
Thank you for making our Open House of 2025-2026 so special. We know that fostering relationships between families and schools is what makes learning so impactful and successful with our Sharks! As we continue throughout the year, we hope to help keep you updated with student progress through Digital Portfolios. These will grow with your Shark through graduation! Our goal is to communicate progress through your Shark weekly with Digital Portfolios, similar to our take-home folders. We know this is a process and is new, so if you have any questions feel free to reach out! Have a wonderful week-end!
Committed to Success,
Heather Touchberry
Open House was such a success! We loved seeing all of you!
MAST Happenings
Girl Scouts
A representative from our local Girl Scouts came and spoke to our 3-5th grade girls during their IMPACT classes. At another time, K-2 grades will see the same presentation. On Tuesday, September 9th at 5pm they would love to show families what being a Girl Scout is all about. If you would like to join an Girl Scouts, please plan to attend at MAST on Tuesday, September 9th at 5pm in the Shark Tank!
FREE**
Volunteer Training - New Procedures for 2025-2026
We have some exciting news that may help our busy families with meeting our volunteer requirements. We are now offering a VIRTUAL VOLUNTEER TRAINING! Follow the steps in the attached file to be cleared to chaperone for field trips and other school events. Please note that MAST requires that all volunteers have a current background check through our Raptor system (information about how to order is in the attached document). Background checks are good for 3 calendar years. If you have any questions, please contact me at whitneymoore@pickens.k12.sc.us. We look forward to working with you this year!
Also, let me know if you would like to be added to PTO's email distribution list for opportunities to help volunteer through their events and activities this year.
STEM Corner
How can you extend your child's understanding of STEM at home? This is another great website to expand your child's STEM learning!
Title I Corner
MAST Fundraisers
SHARK Spirit Rock
The Spirit Rock is available for families to rent, offering a special way to celebrate your student! Check out the guidelines and sign-up link below. All proceeds will go toward funding our field trips this year!
Please be sure to pay AND sign up on SignUp Genius.https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vBLqddeF8_VIOX9hdDiv9yMhXzOjgDY4qjpdcpUdO84/edit?usp=sharing
Box Tops
Join McKissick in earning cash for our school by using the Box Tops app. It’s an easy way to make a difference. All you have to do is buy Box Tops participating products (like Cheerios!) and scan your grocery receipt. Box Tops are worth $.10 each and they add up fast! Twice a year, our school receives a check to help pay for whatever we need - equipment, supplies or experiences the kids love!
Use this referral code HZ5F0LUF when you sign up and you’ll get 25 Bonus Box Tops when you scan your first receipt now through 05/31/2024, while supplies last! Download the Box Tops for Education app here: https://btfe.smart.link/c2jjdifkw?referral_code=HZ5F0LUF
MAST Calendar of Events
September 9: Girl Scouts Presentation to families at MAST 5pm in the Shark Tank
September 11: PTO Skate Night 6-8pm
September 12: Grandparents' Day Breakfast Fundraiser
September 16: Pup Tales @ 8:15am
September 23: Parent Workshop: Raise a Reader 8:15am OR 6:00pm
September 25: Beta Club Meeting 3-4pm
September 26: Shark of the Month @ 8am
McKissick Academy of Science and Technology
Email: heathertouchberry@pickens.k12.sc.us
Website: https://mast.pickens.k12.sc.us/
Location: 156 McKissick Road, Easley, SC, USA
Phone: 864.397.2200
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MASTFINSUP
Twitter: @mastfinsup