Sycamore Springs Middle School

Hello Sycamore Springs Middle School Families,

As we head into the final stretch of the semester, our campus is buzzing with activity and celebration. From next week’s holiday dress-up days to our upcoming Dance Showcase and Winter Concerts, there are so many ways for our Tigers to shine before the break. You’ll also find our Fall Exam Schedule, attendance updates, PTA holiday events, and several important reminders to help your student finish strong.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We’re grateful for this community and excited to close out 2025 with such positive momentum.

Go Tigers!

Sincerely,

Kelly Miller

Principal

1. Our Student Council is hosting holiday dress up days and they are just around the corner (December 15th-19th). We’re excited to bring a little extra cheer to the halls. Please remind your student to check the theme for each day so they can join the fun. It’s a simple way to boost school spirit and help everyone end the semester on a bright note. Thanks for helping us keep the celebrations going. Make sure to check out the flyer below.

2. Our Fall Exam Schedule is now available. Please make sure you are aware of updated bell schedule and which days your student has an exam. Friday, December 19 is an early release day. The school will not be serving lunch on this day.

3. Register NOW for study materials to practice over break at SSMS Spelling Bee Registration for the SSMS PTA Scripps Spelling Bee, Tues Jan 20th 2026 5:30PM SSMS Cafeteria. Questions, email spellingbee@ssmspta.org

4. Join us this December 11 for our SSMS Dance Showcase at 6:30 pm. See flyer below for more information.

5. UIL Academics gives students a chance to shine in subjects they enjoy while building skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. It’s a positive, confidence-building experience that supports both academic growth and personal development.

Competition Dates:

• Wednesday, March 25, 2025 at Bee Cave MS — transportation provided

• Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Lake Travis MS — transportation not provided

If your child is interested, please have them complete the UIL Interest Form on their Tigers Canvas page, or access it ,and other information, on our UIL Website. Filling out the form doesn’t commit them; it simply allows our UIL coaches to reach out with details on events and next steps.

Thanks for supporting your student and helping us build our UIL team!

6. Student Council Amazon Wishlist - Help our Student Council make school events and activities even better by donating from our Amazon Wishlist! Every contribution—big or small—helps bring new ideas to life and keeps our school spirit strong. Check out the wishlist and donate today!

7. Interested in trying out for DSHS Dance Team? Interest meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 9 at 5:15 pm in the DSHS Lecture Hall.

8. The DSISD 18+ Program is selling 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗶𝘁 𝗦𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘀 (black pens) through 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟱! These customizable pens are designed and assembled by our students as part of the program’s entrepreneurial training component, and all profits directly support the program—helping students explore new entrepreneurial opportunities. To purchase, visit this LINK.

9. Nurse Smith is conducting state-mandated health screenings this semester. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) mandates that all children must be screened or have a professional examination for possible spinal curvature problems. Please click on this LINK to read the full letter from Nurse Smith.

Round 2 during the month of December:

-All 7th grade girls: Scoliosis

-All 8th grade boys: Scoliosis

10. Secondary Grading Information: Semester and final exam grades count as 10% of a student’s semester grade, with Formative and Summative grades making up the remainder of the semester grade. Teacher teams have a choice to offer a semester exam or not; some courses will offer a project or presentation as their semester or final exam. If teacher teams do not offer a semester exam, the students’ Formative and Summative grades count for 100% of their semester grade.

11. SSMS Attendance Matters - Weekly Update: As we head into the last few weeks before the break, our students continue to show their dedication! Our overall Average Daily Attendance (ADA) for Week 16 (12/1-12/5) was 95.8%. While this week's number is below our annual goal of 96.9%, we want to recognize the 6th Grade, who continues to set a phenomenal example by achieving the highest attendance rate at 97.7%!

Attendance is critical during this busy time of year. Please remember that every day in the classroom is essential, particularly with final assignments and exams approaching. Thank you for your continued partnership in ensuring your Tiger is present and prepared!

Just a reminder that on Dec. 8 & 9, sixth graders will receive a Bullying Prevention lesson in their Social Studies class. This lesson will be given by Emily Heinatz with Safe Schools. If you do not want your student to receive this lesson, please email your student’s counselor.

If you or someone you know is facing difficult times, please know that help is available — the following Resources are here to provide care, support, and nourishment to those in need.

Please see this message from Our District LMHP team: Hello Tiger Families! The end of the semester is upon us, and the holidays are here! Check out this English Newsletter or Spanish Newsletter created by our DSISD LMHP Team to learn how you can support your children and manage the stress of the holidays together.

Go Tigers!

Ms. Dykhoff, Grades 6-8 last names A-K

Mrs. Zimmerman, Grades 6-8 last names L-Z

Our Fall Exam Schedule is now available. Please make sure you are aware of updated bell schedule and which days your student has an exam. Friday, December 19 is an early release day. The school will not be serving lunch on this day.

Join us this December 11 for our SSMS Dance Showcase at 6:30 pm. See flyer below for more information.

UIL Academics gives students a chance to shine in subjects they enjoy while building skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. It’s a positive, confidence-building experience that supports both academic growth and personal development.

Competition Dates:

• Wednesday, March 25, 2025 at Bee Cave MS — transportation provided

• Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Lake Travis MS — transportation not provided

If your child is interested, please have them complete the UIL Interest Form on their Tigers Canvas page, or access it, and other information, on our UIL Website. Filling out the form doesn’t commit them; it simply allows our UIL coaches to reach out with details on events and next steps.

Thanks for supporting your student and helping us build our UIL team!

Best regards,

Michelle McCoy

Facilitator of Learning and Innovation

Interested in trying out for DSHS Dance Team? Interest meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 9 at 5:15 pm in the DSHS Lecture Hall.

Monday, 8/15 - Ugly Sweater Day

Tuesday, 8/16 - Holiday Characters

Wednesday, 8/17 - Winter Wonderland (blue, silver, white)

Thursday, 8/18 - Holiday Pajamas

Friday, 8/19 - Holiday Colors (wear red and green)

Hello Tigers! We're excited to announce that the Student Council is gearing up for a fantastic semester ahead! Join us in organizing school dances, spirit weeks, and more exciting events. This is your chance to make a meaningful impact and share your ideas! Interested in becoming a leader? Visit the Tigers SSMS Canvas page and click on the Student Council Sign-Up link. For more information, feel free to reach out to Mrs. Johnsey or check the weekly newsletter for details. Let’s make this year unforgettable! Go Tigers!

SCHOOL DANCE THEMES:

Hi SSMS, it’s that time of year again to vote for the dance! Please use the link below to cast your vote!

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeueYlI5VUfkYEfVs5ijPieiaPJl9KZA87X3Mc9S2AV61cKkA/viewform?usp=header

Help our Student Council make school events and activities even better by donating from our Amazon Wishlist! Every contribution—big or small—helps bring new ideas to life and keeps our school spirit strong. Scan the QR code to check out the wishlist and donate today!

Over Thanksgiving Break, Emma and Virginia Gisclair were among the 5 Tiger Belles selected as UDA All-Americans and were invited to perform in the Thanksgiving Day Parade at Walt Disney World!

While in Orlando, Emma and Virginia were chosen by their coach and staff to help lead the parade! earning spots in the third row, positions 1 and 2. Only four athletes from their group received this honor, making their selection especially impressive! Way to go, girls! We’re incredibly proud of you!

Please join me in celebrating our amazing Tigers with September birthdays! Wishing each of you a day filled with joy, laughter, and lots of cake. We ❤️ You! Go Tigers! 🐯

Big cheers to our amazing SSMS teachers who earned a shout-out from their peers this week! Your hard work and positivity keep our campus shining bright. We’re so lucky to have the BEST staff around. Thank you for making SSMS the place to be!

Congratulations to the Tiger of the Week!💪🎉

Please help me in congratulating Guiliana Percenti for being our Tiger of the Week! We are so proud of all the hard work and effort you put into athletics!

We are so proud of all our basketball players!

Congratulations to our Cheerleader of the Week, Elliot! She takes spiriting to a whole other level. Elliot’s got this confidence in her motions, power in her voice and her spiriting commands attention in the best way. She gives 100% every practice, every game, and is a great role model to the younger teammates. We’re so proud to have such an amazing cheerleader and teammate on our team!

•Takes a TREE-mendous effort to run your SSMS PTA to benefit our students, teachers & staff! Please, help us SPRUCE up our funding with a “Holiday One-Click” Fundraiser. BRANCH OUT-share this to friends & family too! DONATE HERE: Jingle All the Way Holiday Fundraiser

•Such amazing feedback for another DSMS/SSMS PTA MS Night: HC Elite Athletics THIS Wed Dec 10th 7-8PM 10 slots available so sign up NOW: SignUpGenius - Mobile

•It’s a SWEET time of year! Sign up to donate a sweet treat (w/o cinnamon or banana) or help host at the beloved SSMS PTA Sugar Shack THIS Fri Dec 12th. Sign up here: SignUpGenius - Mobile

•Special Holiday Ed: SSMS PTA Spirit Night PARTY, NEXT Wed Dec 17th 6PM at Homespun. Kids eat FREE w/entree, movie, and surprise visit from Santa! Proceeds benefit SSMS programs & events.

•Stay tuned for our winner of the YETI Hopper M12 Backpack from the SSMS PTA Membership Drive raffle last month! Thank you for growing our PTA to 377 members from 302 last year!

•Register NOW for study materials to practice over Winter Break at SSMS Spelling Bee Registration for the SSMS PTA Scripps Spelling Bee, Tues Jan 20th 2026 5:30PM SSMS Cafeteria. Questions, email : spellingbee@ssmspta.org

•THANK YOU to all our NEW (& old!) SSMS PTA Workroom Volunteers who show up to free up teaching time to educate & mentor in the workroom WEEKLY. Just a few more slots to fill for 25’ Sign up here: SignUpGenius - Mobile Note: You must have a current background check completed with DSISD Inspiring Volunteers, Volunteering at DSISD | Dripping Springs

•The SSMS PTA is requesting Lunch Volunteers for the SSMS Admin during lunchtimes. Interested? Sign up here: SignUpGenius - Mobile Note: You must have a current background check completed with DSISD Inspiring Volunteers, Volunteering at DSISD | Dripping Springs

•SSMS PTA is creating an All Abilities Committee led by ACC Aide, Ms. Connolly Lees, for All Abilities Month in Dec as well as a Talent Show Committee for Feb, headed by SSMS parent Carl Coccaro, and we’re STILL looking for volunteers to make events happen! Interested, email president@ssmspta.org

•On behalf of SSMS National Junior Honor Society & Ms. McGilvray: Clothes Bin have partnered to collect & recycle old clothing, shoes and textiles! Every pound of recycled items supports SSMS NJHS! Place your items in a bag that is tied closed and deposit them in the green recycling bin in our front Maroon parking lot.

•Continuing to host informative SSMS PTA Parent to Parent Campus Tours LAST one of 25’ is Fri 12/12 11:30-12:15PM. Come see why SSMS received the School of Excellence Award before the incoming 6th Grade families arrive! Sign up here: SignUpGenius - Mobile

•Be sure to Like & Follow Sycamore Springs Middle School PTA on ourFacebookandInstagram - we post information and updates daily throughout the school year, and we’ll show up more often the more you react to the posts!

The DSISD 18+ Program is selling 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗶𝘁 𝗦𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘀 (black pens) through 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟱! These customizable pens are designed and assembled by our students as part of the program’s entrepreneurial training component, and all profits directly support the program—helping students explore new entrepreneurial opportunities. To purchase, visit this LINK.

Are you looking for a way to honor a Dripping Springs ISD employee? Whether you are a staff member wanting to recognize a co-worker for a job well done or a parent who is impressed by your child's bus driver for going that extra mile, this is the program for you! Anyone can nominate any DSISD employee through the district's employee recognition program, Tiger Stripes for Staff. Click HERE to leave a Tiger Strip!

Monday, 12/8 - A Day

FCA; Small Gym @ 8am

Girls Basketball vs HCMS @ SSMS; 8B/7A 5:15pm, 8A/7B 6:30pm

Boys Basketball @ HCMS; 8B/7A 5:15pm, 8A/7B 6:30pm

Tuesday, 12/9 - B Day

NJHS Meeting; 6th grade Pod @ 8:05am

Winter Choir Concert; Stage @7:00 pm

Middle School Night for Girls Basketball at DSHS

Wednesday, 12/10 - A Day

Principal's Student Advisory Meeting; Sycamore Room @ 10:20am

NJHS Meeting; 6th grade Pod @ 4:20pm

7th/8th Grade Winter Band Concert; Stage @ 6:30pm

Thursday, 12/11 - B Day

Dance Performance; Stage @ 6pm

Friday, 12/12 - B Day

PTA Campus Tour; 11:30 am (RSVP Here)

Choir Caroling at ES campuses

PTA Sugar Shack 🍭🍪

Winter Orchestra Concert, 7:00pm at DSHS (all DSISD string orchestras)

Saturday, 12/13

Boys Basketball Barton Springs Tournament

12/15 - Dress up day: Ugly Sweater Day

12/15 - Girls Basketball @ HBMS; 8B/7A 5:15pm, 8A/7B 6:30pm

12/15 - Boys Basketball vs HBMS @ SSMS; 8B/7A 5:15pm, 8A/7B 6:30pm

12/16 - Dress up day: Holiday Characters

12/16 - 5th and 7th Period Exams (modified bell schedule)

12/17 - Dress up day: Winter Wonderland (blue, silver, white)

12/17 - 1st and 3rd Period Exams (modified bell schedule)

12/18 - Dress up day: Holiday Pajamas

12/18 - 8th and 6th Period Exams (modified bell schedule)

12/19 - Early Release

12/19 - Dress up day: Holiday Colors (wear red and green)

12/19 - 2nd and 4th Period Exams (modified bell schedule)

12/22-1/2 - Winter Break - Staff/Student Holiday ❄️🎄

1/5-1/6 - Student Holiday/Teacher Work Day

1/7 - First Day of Spring Semester