September Newsletter

SWMS Students & Families,

🎉We are two weeks into the school year and our students are settling into their routines, learning their schedules, finding their classrooms, meeting new teachers, and getting back into the school-day groove. We know the first few weeks can come with a few questions, a few wrong turns, and plenty of schedule checking—but that’s all part of getting settled!

We’re excited to see our Scoopers finding their rhythm and rolling into the new school year. We are looking forward to a year of learning, growing, and making memories. Thanks to our students, families, and staff for helping us kick off the school year! We’re just getting started! 😀

🏡Student Check-In & Check Out

5th Grade Students: The location for late drop-off or early pick-up varies depending on the time. At certain times, 5th-grade students should be dropped off or picked up at the Special Services Office in the 5th Grade/Administrative Building. Please contact the school office if you are unsure where to go.

6th–8th Grade Students: All late arrivals and early pick-ups for 6th–8th grade students are handled through the SWMS Main Office, where students must be signed in or out.

Meet Our New Staff

Mrs. Ewing - Counselor

My name is Val Ewing. I moved here from Winner where we ranched. I have been a paraprofessional, a high school history teacher, and then the counselor at both the high school and middle school. I worked at the school for 24 years and was the counselor for the past 17 years. I have coached cheerleading since I started at the school in 2001 and started the competitive cheer program in 2010.

My husband's name is Wade and we have been married for 27 years (on 9-11) and have 2 children, Wyatt - who is married to Faith and lives in Webster and runs his own business, and Kara - who lives in Spearfish and works at the college. I also have a dog named Kota. We live in Whitewood and when I am not at school or cheer, I like to spend my time fishing, golfing, hiking, reading or cruising in the Mustang.

Mrs. Perschbacher- 7th Grade Special Education

My name is Chelsie Perschbacher, and I am a dedicated educator, wife, and proud mother of three boys, ages 15, 12, and 9. Before entering the field of education, I spent 12 years working for the Department of Social Services, where I developed a passion for supporting and advocating for others.

My journey into teaching was inspired by my son, who has special needs. Through my experiences as a parent, I discovered a deep appreciation for education and the positive impact teachers can have on students and families. This inspired me to return to school and pursue a career where I could make a difference in the lives of young people.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy traveling, spending quality time with my family, camping, fishing, and exploring the outdoors. I am always eager to take on new challenges, learn new things, and continue growing both personally and professionally. My love of learning and commitment to helping others inspires me every day as I build my teaching career.

6th Grade- Mr. Whidby

My name is Shane Whidby, and I am the 6th grade Reading teacher at Sturgis Williams Middle School. This is my 11th year teaching, and I am excited to be back! I am a football and track coach at the high school, and I am looking forward to having a great year!

Infinite Campus

💻Get Connected with Infinite Campus

View report cards, current grades, and individual assignment scores.
Check your student's daily attendance, including absences and tardies.
View your student's daily class schedule and teacher assignments.

Contact the office for login credentials.

Download the Campus Parent App

IPAD & Charger Information

Students must keep their school-issued iPad in the provided protective case at all times. iPads should not be left in vehicles or exposed to extreme temperatures.

Students in grades 6–8 have been issued a numbered charger. The charger checked out to the student is the charger that must be returned at the end of the school year.

Any lost or damaged iPads or chargers must be reported to the office.

Homecoming 2026

Friday, September 25th- 2 hour Early Release @ 1:17

Homecoming Parade Information:

Date: Friday September 25th

Theme: Carnival of the Scoopers (Rio, Brazilian, Colorful)

Lineup: 1:30 - 2:30PM at Old Rodeo Grounds on Ballpark Rd.

Parade Start: 3:00 PM

📆Click Here for SWMS Calendar

School Events and Activities!

What is Due?

Take a Look at Upcoming Assignment Due Dates by Grade Level

5th Grade: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kyiFIsdOtgz-tZfPZ9eONKxPzszK7Lo1RZ-0miv4f-E/edit?usp=sharing

6th Grade: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_d44_X3uf0s__PBoVfQf4is0MP7eAcAtOuKWDvYJIqc/edit?usp=sharing

7th Grade: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1F-0FRXYip32hcjxEx30HxUn-yw8mSM475mzdXIv2XkM/edit?usp=sharing

8th Grade: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1Gaojw4pBx_WlWTvwbXGsge_9_HpMtQjFAZ0r4-vSBx8/edit?usp=sharing

After School Program

The SWMS After School Program is offered on Tuesdays from 3:20–5:15 PM. It gives students an opportunity to catch up on assignments, work with a teacher for extra help, and get back on track with their schoolwork.

There are 25 spots available each Tuesday. A call needs to be made each week to reserve a spot. Please call the SWMS office or reach out to your child’s Homeroom or WIN Time teacher to reserve a spot.