Ford Summer Newsletter

Welcome Back, T-Birds!

Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! I am so excited to begin a new year with our amazing Ford community and to welcome both our returning students and those who are joining the Ford family for the first time.

I cannot tell you how thrilled I am to be a part of the Ford community. Over the past several years, I've had the privilege of serving our students, staff, and families, and it has only strengthened my appreciation for what makes Ford such a special place.

I believe schools are at their best when students feel known, families feel welcomed, and staff feel supported. My goal is for every T-Bird to know they belong, are valued, and have adults who believe in them every single day. A new school year brings exciting opportunities to learn, grow, build friendships, and create lasting memories, and I can't wait to see all that our students accomplish this year.

Our staff has been working hard all summer to prepare for an incredible school year, and we are eager to see our hallways filled with students once again. We are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment where every student can learn, grow, and thrive.

Whether you are new to Ford or returning this year, I look forward to getting to know you, hearing your stories, celebrating your successes, and supporting you every step of the way.

Please continue to read our monthly Smore newsletters throughout the school year. They are the best way to stay informed about important dates, school events, student celebrations, family opportunities, and everything happening at Ford.

I am excited to join the Ford Middle School community as I begin my 20th year in education. Most recently, I served as Assistant Principal at Bethel High School.

I am excited to work with middle school students and appreciate their unique perspective, energy, and outlook on life. I look forward to building meaningful relationships with students, staff, and families as we work together to help every student succeed.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family. My wife and I have five wonderful kids, along with two dogs and two cats that keep our home busy and full of life. I am honored to be joining the Ford community and can't wait for a great school year!

August 27th:

• Picture Day from 12:00-6:00pm. Pictures will be taking place in the gym. No purchase is necessary. Photos will be used for ID cards and our yearbook
• New Student Orientation from 4:00-6:00pm. The intent of this event is for families and students to learn about Ford and tour key areas of campus. Although we focus on 6th grade students, all families are welcome to attend!

We will follow our tradition of a staggered start time on the first day of school; 6th graders will begin the first day at 8:00am, and all other students will begin at 11:30am. Bus pick up for 7th & 8th graders will be 3.5 hours later than their regular pick up time. This allows our 6th graders to have a more comfortable start to the first day of middle school.

6th grade students should report to the cafeteria upon arrival. Our staff will be all over campus to get students to the right location. They will pick up their class schedules, meet their teachers, and be escorted to their classes.

7th and 8th grade students will report to the courtyard when they arrive on campus where teachers will distribute their class schedules. No lunches will be served to 7th and 8th graders on the first day.

The first day will end for all students at 2:35 PM.

September 1st:

• First Day of School
• First Day of Sports

September 17th:

• Missed Picture Day during school
• Back to School Night 5:30-7:00pm

September 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th: 1:05pm dismissal

Sports are open to ALL GRADE LEVELS

Registration is done online only at:

https://franklinpierce-wa.finalforms.com/

A current physical is required to practice. For further assistance, please call 253-298-3722

Fall Sports:

Baseball, Fastpitch and Track & Field

Practices for these sports will begin on the first day of school, September 1st. Practices end at 5:00pm and there is an activity bus to take students home. You must have all paperwork completed before attending practice.

All students need:

Backpack

3 Ring Binder (big enough to hold work for 6 classes)

Dividers

Any additional schools supplies or extras that are needed will be provided by our school. Students can ask any teacher for additional supplies.

Optional items that will be for sale at Picture Day in August, and during the school year are:

ASB Card (required for sports/band/choir)- $20

Yearbook- $30

Limited Quantity of previous year’s apparel

School Sweatshirt TBD

**NOTE: If you would like to avoid waiting in line, all purchases can be made over the phone starting August 24th by calling 253-298-3722 or your student can purchase from the cashier on the first day of school.**