Mr. Alsup Message

Welcome back, and Happy New Year! I hope you had a restful and meaningful winter break and were able to spend time with the people and activities that matter most. As we begin the second semester, I want to take a moment to recognize how much our students have already grown this year; academically, socially, and personally.

It’s hard to believe we’ve already completed the first semester of school. This is such an exciting time of year. Our freshmen have now experienced their first high school finals, sophomores are settling into their routines with more confidence, juniors are beginning to look toward the future with greater purpose, and seniors are navigating the final stretch toward graduation and everything that comes with it. This season is all about momentum and planning — and we are proud of the work our students are doing.

Academic Planning & Course Selection

With January here, it is time for the course selection process to begin. I would like to invite students and parents in grades 8–11 to our annual Academic Planning and Course Information Night, which will take place on Tuesday, January 13th from 6:30–7:30 PM in the Middle School Commons.

This evening is designed to provide families with an overview of the Academic Planning Guide and help you support your student as they select courses for next year. Students will also receive this information during the school day, but we strongly encourage parents who are unfamiliar with STEM’s course options and selection process to attend. If you have questions, please contact info@stemk12.org.

Wish Week Is Coming

Students… start saving your money — and start preparing your Spartan spirit! Our Annual Wish Week is quickly approaching. STEM will host our annual Wish Week March 2nd–7th, and our National Honor Society students are working hard to organize an amazing week that will include students at all levels. Please stay tuned for more details!

A Reminder About Social Media & Student Safety

As we move into the second semester, I also want to share an important reminder about student safety and digital citizenship. Parents continue to have a strong influence on their teenagers, and we appreciate the many ways you support your students. We encourage families to keep open communication, maintain family time, and establish consistent expectations that help teens learn the balance between independence and responsibility.

Please also monitor your student’s social media use — both the accounts you know they have and any accounts they may have created without your knowledge. Over the past few years, we’ve seen an increase in bullying through social media. While this appears to be less of an issue at times, it has not disappeared. Anonymous accounts and posts can have a real impact on students’ well-being.

Additionally, situations involving online predators continue to be a very real concern for teenagers everywhere. While we never want to cause unnecessary fear, we do want families to be aware and proactive. We are not immune, and monitoring online activity is one of the best ways to help protect students. Just as you wouldn’t let your child leave the house without knowing where they’re going, I encourage you to bring the same mindset to their digital world.

If you ever have concerns or need support, please reach out; we are always here to help.

Upcoming Events

• Monday, January 6th & Tuesday, January 7th – Spring Musical Auditions

• Tuesday, January 7th – Girls Varsity Basketball vs Ascent Classical at 5:00 PM; Boys Varsity Basketball vs Ascent Classical at 6:30 PM

• Thursday, January 9th – Girls Varsity Basketball at Jefferson HS at 5:30 PM; Boys Varsity Basketball at Jefferson HS at 7:00 PM

• Tuesday, January 13th – Academic Planning & Course Information Night, 6:30–7:30 PM (Middle School Commons)

• Tuesday, January 14th – New High School Location Tour at 4:00 PM

• Wednesday, January 15th – New High School Relocation Virtual Information Session

• March 2nd–7th – Wish Week (more info coming soon!)

• 
  

That is all I have for now. Thank you for being such an important part of the STEM community. Let’s start the new semester strong — focused, connected, and proud to be Spartans.

Sincerely,
Ryan Alsup
High School Principal
Proud to be a Spartan!