Sycamore Springs Middle School

Hello Sycamore Springs Middle School Families,

Happy Sunday! I hope you are enjoying this beautiful weekend. It is hard to believe that Spring Break is next week and then only one more term until summer! We have a busy week this week with both band and track competing on Tuesday and Wednesday and choir performing on Thursday. Track has their pre district track meet at DSHS, band has their UIL Concert and Sightreading competition at Hays CISD PAC, and Choir has their pre UIL concert at DSHS. We wish all our students good luck and know you will do amazing!

With Spring Break starting next Monday, there will not be an SSMS Weekly Newsletter emailed out on Sunday, March 15. The next newsletter will be emailed on Sunday, March 22, 2026. I hope you and your family have an amazing Spring Break and are able to recharge and relax . We will return to school on Monday, March 23.

As always, thank you for your partnership and for supporting your Tiger each day. If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a teacher, counselor, or administrator.

Go Tigers!

Sincerely,

Kelly Miller

Principal

1. Next week is Spring Break. All district offices and campuses will be closed from March 16-20.

2. Soccer and Golf tryouts are just around the corner. Make sure to read below for more details.

3. We want to remind families that parents and guardians are encouraged to partner with teachers in support of student learning. If you would like to schedule a parent-teacher conference, you may do so by reaching out to your child’s teacher directly. Conferences can be arranged at a mutually convenient time to discuss your student’s progress, strengths, and areas of growth.

4. For 8th Grade Families - Please see below for upcoming events:

• March 23 - 8th Grade Panoramic Picture - during Tiger Win
• May 11 - Incoming Freshman Athletics Parent Meeting; DSHS Cafeteria @ 6pm

5. Our Lost & Found fills up quickly! This week is donation week! The Lost & Found will be located out front of the school from Monday, March 9th through Friday, March 13th at 12:00 p.m. After 12:00 p.m. on Friday, all remaining items will be gathered and donated to a local charity or shelter, including any jewelry, electronics, or other valuables are kept in the front office, please see the receptionist for assistance with those items.

6. Join us in the H-E-B Plastic Bag Challenge! Please collect your plastic grocery bags and drop them off at the front office, where you will find the collection bin. The more bags we collect, the more gift cards our school can earn! Let’s work together to support our community, help the environment, and make Sycamore Springs Middle School proud! GO TIGERS!

7. Step into an Enchanted Garden on March 27 from 6–8 PM for a night of music, lights, and a little magic! Hosted by Student Council with support from our admin team, this is a night you won’t want to miss. Student Council is transforming our cafeteria into a magical garden to create a fun, memory-making evening for our students.

• Click HERE to access our Amazon Wishlist.

• Click HERE to sign up to volunteer.
• Click HERE for the background check.

8. Calling all DSISD student-athletes, band members, cheerleaders, and dancers! It’s time to get your required physicals checked off the list for the upcoming season. Dripping Springs HS will be hosting a Physicals Clinic on Saturday, April 11, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM in the DSHS Gyms. At just $25 per student, it’s a quick and convenient way to ensure you're cleared and ready to play. See below for more information.

9. Attention 6th Grade Families - There are required Immunizations for all 7th grade students; 1) Tdap and 2) Meningitis. Nurse Smith needs updated immunization record OR a notarized Affidavit from the State of Texas found here: https://co-request.dshs.texas.gov/. You may bring updated records to the school or email a copy to blair.smith@dsisdtx.us. For more information, visit https://www.dshs.texas.gov/immunizations/school or call Nurse Blair at 512-858-3604.

10. SSMS Attendance Matters - Weekly Update: Week 27 results are in! Our overall Average Daily Attendance (ADA) was 96.1%, which is a significant and exciting increase from last week’s average of 94.7%. We are closing in on our campus goal of 96.9%! A huge shout-out goes to our 6th Graders for leading the school this week with an attendance rate of 96.5%, followed by 8th Grade at 96.0% and 7th Grade at 95.8%.

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

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

Our Lost & Found fills up quickly! To help keep things organized, unclaimed items will be cleaned out and donated on the following dates this school year: March 13, 2026 · May 22, 2026. Please encourage your students to check the Lost & Found regularly so their belongings don’t get donated.

**This week is donation week! The Lost & Found will be located out front of the school from Monday, March 9th through Friday, March 13th at 12:00 p.m.

After 12:00 p.m. on Friday, all remaining items will be gathered and donated to a local charity or shelter, including any jewelry, electronics, or other valuables are kept in the front office, please see the receptionist for assistance with those items.

Thank you for helping us keep things organized!

Join us in the H-E-B Plastic Bag Challenge! Please collect your plastic grocery bags and drop them off at the front office, where you will find the collection bin. The more bags we collect, the more gift cards our school can earn! Let’s work together to support our community, help the environment, and make Sycamore Springs Middle School proud! GO TIGERS!

Calling all DSISD student-athletes, band members, cheerleaders, and dancers! It’s time to get your required physicals checked off the list for the upcoming season.

Dripping Springs HS will be hosting a physicals clinic on Saturday, April 11, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM in the DSHS Gyms. At just $25 per student, it’s a quick and convenient way to ensure you're cleared and ready to play.

Important Details:

• Cost: $25 per student.

• Payment: Pre-pay online at the DSISD Webstore or pay via check only (payable to DSISD) if paying onsite.

• Required: A parent/guardian must be present, and you must bring a completed UIL Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation Form (available on the DSISD Athletics Dept. website).

Don't wait until the last minute—scan the QR code on the flyer or visit the link above to secure your spot and get game-day ready!

Dear 6th grade Parents/Guardians:

Texas state law requires that ALL students receive the following vaccines PRIOR to starting 7th grade. Students cannot start 7th grade and will not receive their schedules without meeting the following requirements:

1. Tetanus, Diphtheria and Acellular Pertussis-containing vaccine (Tdap): 1 dose within the last 5 years to be valid.

2. Meningococcal Vaccine (MCV4): 1 dose of the quadrivalent vaccine on or after a student's 11th birthday to be valid.

OR

• Reasons of Conscience Exemption https://corequest.dshs.texas.gov/

Most physicians administer the required vaccines during the 11 year wellness check. Please check with your child's doctor to see if your child has already received the required vaccines. If not, please make arrangements to have the vaccines administered.

Vaccine records can be emailed to me (blair.smith@dsisdtx.us) or dropped off at school.

Helpful links:

Texas Minimum State Vaccine Requirements for Students Grades K-12

Texas Immunization Exemptions

Immunization Resources

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Thank you,

Nurse Blair

• Tickets are $5.00 (cash only) and will be sold March 9-13 in the cafeteria. Wristbands will be handed out March 24-26 during lunches.
• To help bring this vision to life, we’re asking for donations through our Amazon Wishlist (link below). Thank you to our amazing Tiger parents for your continued support!
• We’re also seeking parent volunteers for post-dance cleanup from 8:10–8:45 PM on March 27.
• A completed background check is required; see the flyer for details. We appreciate your help in making this event a success.

• Click HERE to access our Amazon Wishlist.

• Click HERE to sign up to volunteer.
• Click HERE for the background check.

DSHS has created a Rising 9th Grade Newsletter with key dates and upcoming events. The link will be shared in my weekly newsletters, but you may also want to bookmark it and check back for updates. Click HERE to access the Rising 9th Grade Newsletter.

Upcoming Events:

• May 11 - Incoming Freshman Athletics Parent Meeting; DSHS Cafeteria @ 6pm

Our annual 8th grade panoramic picture has been scheduled for Tuesday, March 24 during Tiger Win. Please see flyer below for more information.

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!💪🎉

BOYS’ Soccer (7th & 8th ONLY)

Get ready for soccer tryouts taking place on March 27th, 30th, and 31st! The doors will open at 6:30 a.m., with tryouts commencing promptly at 7:00 a.m. and concluding at 8:15 a.m. on the football field. Please ensure your physical examination is completed before attending the tryouts to meet the requirements. Additionally, make sure to fill out the sign-in sheet for tryouts at https://forms.gle/CaqGB3UBwksF3UsKA. Good luck to all participants, and we look forward to seeing your skills on the field! Contact Coach Bookout for any questions christopher.bookout@dsisdtx.us

BOYS AND GIRLS Golf (7th & 8th ONLY)

BOYS AND GIRLS Tennis (7th & 8th)

Hey Tigers, be an “ACE” and join tennis! We would “LOVE” to have you! Tennis Season starts after Spring Break. Parent Meeting will be on March 23rd Monday at 5:30 in the Sycamore Room. This meeting will go over the commitment of joining the tennis team, match dates, morning practices etc. Tryouts will be after school with girls on 3/30 and 3/31 (Mon & Tue) and boys on 4/1 & 4/2 (Wed & Thur)l. Cuts will be made at the end of Day 1 for both, with final cuts at the end of Day 2 for both boys and girls teams. Morning practice will be 3 times a week (plus an open practice on match day mornings.) If you have any questions please reach out to Coach Pillai at akshara.pillai@dsisdtx.us

GO TIGERS!

Congratulations to the following athletes who have been selected for the official cheer team for next year.

MIDDLE SCHOOL STATE CHAMPIONS!!!! 🏆🏆

• Emily Helsley: Selected for her poise, patience, and respectful nature.

• Halle Beale: Recognized for her focus, humor, and infectious positive attitude.

• Sabine Adair: Chosen for always having a respectful attitude with her peers and teachers.

• Alex Jensen: Honored for his eagerness to learn and his vibrant participation in singing.

• Danae Luddy: Chosen for being exceptionally prepared and handling every situation with grace and patience.

You all rock! Congratulations!

Our production of The Amazing Lemonade Girl delivered a beautiful and heartfelt performance and was recognized with the Best Ensemble Award and earned 2nd Place Overall in the competition.

Several students were also recognized for their outstanding individual performances:

• Best Performer: Gracyn Squire for her portrayal of Alex Scott

• All-Star Cast: Virginia Gisclair and Julie Nutt

• Honorable Mention All-Star Cast: Eyan Sebastian and Avery Marusarz

Joe, Antonio, and I are incredibly proud of the tremendous growth, dedication, and teamwork these students demonstrated throughout the rehearsal and performance process. Their commitment to storytelling and to one another truly shone on stage.

As we celebrate this achievement, we are also excited to look ahead! Auditions for our spring productions will take place this week for Hoodie and Mean Girls Jr., which will be performed May 7th–9th. These shows promise to be a lot of fun and will feature some extra-special staff cameos, so stay tuned!

• ACTION: We need YOU! In collab with the SSMS Athletic Boosters we are searching for concession volunteers to help NEXT Tues March 10th & Wed March 11th 6-8PM at DSHS Proceeds to benefit the SSMS PTA. Sign up here: SignUpGenius - Mobile

• SSMS PTA loves our SSMS teachers & staff SODA much! Thank you to all who came out last Friday-it was our pleasure to keep you all energized with a ‘Dirty Soda’ Pop Up for your Chalk Talks!

• Our SSMS PTA “One-Click’ Fundraiser benefits events like the recent ‘Soda Pop Up’, upcoming SSMS Staff Appreciations like Queso Bar this month, and a week in May! DONATE HERE (easily once or monthly): February Edition: Spirit Nights Questions? Email: SSMS PTA Fundraising at fundraising@ssmspta.org

• Congrats to all our ‘Mix Tape’ 26’ Talent Show participants last Friday! Special shout out to our amazing emcees, student & PTA volunteers, and SSMS PTA Talent Show Chair-Mr. Carl Coccaro on a phenomenal show. See you next year!

• THANK YOU to all our SSMS PTA Workroom Volunteers who show up to free up teaching time to educate & mentor in the workroom WEEKLY-we need help Wed 3/11 and following Spring Break! 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 Lunch Volunteers for additional help during lunchtimes. Great way to volunteer for just 30mins! Stay tuned at this link for updated sign ups: SignUpGenius - Mobile Note: You must have a current background check completed with DSISD Inspiring Volunteers, Volunteering at DSISD | Dripping Springs

• Last, SSMS PTA Parent to Parent Campus Tours for March: NEXT Fri 3/13 11:30AM-12:15PM Sign up here: SignUpGenius - Mobile Come see why SSMS received the School of Excellence Award-perfect for incoming 6th Grade Parents!

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

• Be sure to Like & Follow Sycamore Springs Middle School PTA on ourFacebookandInstagram - we post information & updates daily throughout the school year, and we’ll show up more often the more you react to the posts! Note: Incoming 6th Graders Class of 2033 info is there too!

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, 3/9 - A Day

7th Grade Vaping Prevention Presentation in Health Class

Tuesday, 3/10 - B Day

Band UIL Concert & Sightreading; Hays PAC

7th Grade Vaping Prevention Presentation in Health Class

7th Grade Boys/Girls Pre-District Track Meet @ DSHS; 4:15pm

Wednesday, 3/11 - A Day

Band UIL Concert & Sightreading; Hays PAC

6th Grade SB 9 "Sexting & Cyberbullying Lesson in Social Studies Classes

8th Grade Boys/Girls Pre-District Track Meet @ DSHS; 4:15pm

Thursday, 3/12 - B Day

FCA; Small Gym @ 8am

6th Grade SB 9 "Sexting & Cyberbullying Lesson in Social Studies Classes

Choir Pre UIL; DSHS PAC @ 7pm

Friday, 3/13 -A Day

PTA Board Meeting; Sycamore Room @ 8:15am

PTA Parent-to-Parent Campus Tour; 11:30 (RSVP Here)

3/16-3/20 - Spring Break 😎🏄‍♀️⛱️

3/23 - 8th Grade Panoramic Picture

3/24 - Golf Player Meeting; Small Gym @ 4:15pm

3/25 - District Track Meet - Day 1 @ Westlake HS; 2pm

3/26 - FCA; Small Gym @ 8am

3/26 - Roots Meeting; F232 @ 8am

3/26 - District Track Meet - Day 2 @ Westlake HS; 2pm

3/26 - Band Booster Meeting; Sycamore Room @ 5

3/26 - UIL Orchestra Pre-Concert; DSHS @ 6:30 pm

3/27 - Boys Soccer Tryouts Begin; Football Field @ 7am

3/27 - Tennis Parent Meeting; 5:30pm

3/30 - Golf Tryouts Begin; Grass Field @ 4:15pm

3/30 - Girls Tennis Tryouts Begin; 4:15pm

4/1 - Boys Tennis Tryouts Begin; 4:15pm

4/6 - Girls Soccer Parent Meeting; Big Gym @ 5:30pm

4/6 - Mandatory Golf Parent Meeting; Cafeteria @ 5:30pm

4/8 - Boys Soccer Team Pictures; 7:30am

4/8 - Golf Team Pictures; SSMS Field @ 7:30am

4/8 - Tennis Team Pictures; Courts @ 7:30am

4/9 - Girls Soccer Team Pictures

4/13 - Golf @ HCMS Invitational; Plum Creek @ 4:10pm

4/14 - Tennis vs LTMS @ DSHS; 5:30pm

4/16 - Boys Soccer @ LTMS; 5/6:15pm

4/16 - Girls Soccer vs LTMS @ SSMS; 5/6:15pm

4/20 - Golf @ LTISD Tournament; Hidden Falls @ 4:10pm

4/21 - Tennis vs HCMS @ WHS; 5:30pm

4/23 - Girls Soccer @ HCMS; 5pm

4/23 - Boys Soccer @ HCMS; 6:15pm

4/27 - Golf @ DSISD Tournament; Grey Rock @ 4:10pm

4/28 - Tennis vs HBMS @ DSHS; 5:30 pm

4/30 - Boys Soccer @ HBMS; 5/6:15pm

4/30 - Girls Soccer vs HBMS @ SSMS; 5/6:15pm

5/4 - Golf @ WRMS Tournament; Vaaler Creek @ 4:10pm

5/5 - Tennis vs WRMS @ WHS; 5:30pm

5/7 - Girls Soccer @ WRMS; 5pm

5/7 - Boys Soccer @ WRMS; 6:15pm

5/12 - Golf @ HLMS District Tournament; Legends @ 4:10pm

5/12 - Tennis vs BCMS @ DSHS; 5:30pm

5/14 - Boys Soccer @ BCMS; 5/6:15pm

5/14 - Girls Soccer vs BCMS @ SSMS; 5/6:15pm

5/18 - Girls Soccer vs DSMS @ DSHS; 5/6:15pm

5/18 - Boys Soccer vs SSMS @ SSMS; 5/6:15pm

5/18 - Tennis vs DSMS @ DSHS; 5:30pm