Weekly Principal's Newsletter

Only one week to go! The first day of the 2025–2026 school year is almost here, and the energy is already buzzing in the building. Classrooms are coming to life, lockers are standing ready, and our staff is busy putting the finishing touches on everything for opening day.

Now’s the perfect time to visit our website, review the student handbook, double-check your supply list, and look over your schedule so you’re set for a smooth start.

This week, I’m especially excited to welcome our 7th-grade families to Orientation—it’s always a great kickoff to the middle school journey.

Here’s to a great year ahead—full of learning, growth, and Panther pride!

With Panther Pride,

Dr. Matthew Crater
Principal, Strayer Middle School
Home of the Panthers

• August 19: 7th Grade Orientation (6:30–7:30 PM)
• August 25: First Day of School
• September 15: Parent Organization Meeting (6:00-7:00PM) @ SMS
• September 18: Back to School Night (6:00–8:00 PM)
• September 22: Student Picture Day

Our Administrators are dedicated to creating a positive, safe, and supportive environment for all students. They work closely with staff, students, and families to ensure a smooth school experience—from day-to-day routines to big-picture goals. Whether it’s supporting student success, addressing concerns, or celebrating achievements, our principals are committed to helping every student thrive at Strayer!

Mrs. Kendra Swackhamer

• Administrative Assistant to Dr. Crater

Ms. Karen Succi

• Administrative Assistant to Ms. Maddon and Mr. Smith
• Attendance Secretary

Mr. Gasparetti

• Administrative Assistant for Extracurriculars and Sports

Our counselors are absolute rockstars! They’re here to help with everything — from making sure your schedule is just right, to helping you handle friendship drama, big feelings, or first-day nerves. They’re the friendly faces who welcome new students, help solve conflicts, and make sure you feel supported and safe at school. Need someone to talk to? They’ve got your back!

First Day of School Schedule

We’re so excited to welcome our Panthers back for the 2025–2026 school year! The first day is all about helping students feel comfortable, connected, and ready to start strong.

Throughout the day, students will meet with administrators and our School Resource Officer (SRO) for welcome-back assemblies and presentations. Teachers will guide students step-by-step, making sure everyone knows where to go, what to expect, and how to make the most of their first day.

If you have any questions about your schedule or the times listed below, just ask your 1st period teacher when you arrive—they’ll be happy to help.

Schedule for Monday, August 25

• 7:50 AM – Doors Open (Breakfast available / Auditorium)

• 8:10–9:00 AM – Period 1

• 9:00–9:56 AM – Period 2 (Assemblies)

• 9:59–10:43 AM – Period 3

• 10:46 AM–12:50 PM – Lunch / Period 4 / Period 5

• 12:53–1:37 PM – Period 6 (Assemblies)

• 1:40–2:24 PM – Period 7

• 2:27–2:55 PM – PRIDE

We know the first day can bring both excitement and a few butterflies, but we’ll be here to support students every step of the way. Let’s make this a great start to an amazing year!

Day 2 – Tuesday, August 26 – Normal Bell Schedule
Starting on Day 2, we’ll follow our regular bell schedule, but with a special focus on building a strong school community. Students will engage in PBIS lessons on expected school behaviors, and teachers will spend time fostering relationships and building their classroom communities.

We’ll wrap up the day with a PBIS Kickoff Assembly to celebrate the year ahead and reinforce the positive culture we want to see every day.

Starting Wednesday, August 27
We’ll move into our normal daily rhythm. Teachers will begin diving into instruction, guiding students into consistent routines, and keeping our focus on learning, growth, and Panther pride.

• Coed Soccer
• Field Hockey
• Girls Volleyball
• Football
• Cheerleading

1. Register on Family ID: https://students.arbitersports.com/quakertown-community-school-district/strayer-ms-2025-2026-fall-athlete-registration
2. Turn in PIAA Physical Sections 5 and 6

Reporting Student Absences: Information on how to report student absences can be found under "Attendance Information" on our website.