Director's Update
A message from Mrs. Ridder, Middle School Director
Dear Middle School Families,
I hope you all had a wonderful Spring Break. This week was busy, with students returning and our 6th graders heading to Keystone Science Camp. Both trips were successful, and I am happy to report that Keystone offered a memorable and educational experience for our students. As we dive into the last quarter of the 24/25 school year, please read on for some important updates and events.
Energy Drink Concerns
A substantial body of research indicates that energy drinks can pose significant health risks, particularly for children and adolescents. High caffeine can lead to disturbances in sleep, increased anxiety, and elevated heart rate and blood pressure. The caffeine, sugar, and other ingredients are linked to headaches, stomach aches, dehydration, mood changes, and in rare cases, seizures and heart problems. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly advises against energy drink consumption by children and adolescents.
To address these concerns, I am seeking your support in discouraging students from bringing energy drinks to school. I am requesting your partnership in fostering a healthy learning environment for all our students. It’s important to note that even if your student does not personally consume energy drinks, they may be offered them by peers. Our aim is to create a consistent, supportive, and healthy environment for everyone. I understand that individual family practices vary, and I appreciate your consideration of this request.
Looking ahead, beginning next school year, energy drinks will be prohibited within the middle school. This proactive measure is being implemented to safeguard the health and well-being of our student body. We value your collaboration in this matter and appreciate your commitment to supporting our students’ optimal development.
Enrollment and Withdrawal
We’re looking forward to a successful 2025/2026 school year. However, we recognize that some families may be exploring alternative educational options. If your child will not be returning to STEM next year, please complete the STEM Withdrawal Notification Form as soon as possible. This advance notice is crucial for our planning and resource allocation. Remember, this form initiates the process; you’ll also need to complete enrollment at your child’s new school. Thank you for your cooperation!
Important dates and events:
- April 11 – Early Release day
- April 14-18 – CMAS Testing
- April 24 – STEMFest 5-7 pm
- May 1-3 – Into the Woods Theater Production
- May 8 – Fine Arts Showcase
- May 13 – Middle School Awards Ceremony (4-5 pm)
- May 15 – Spring Music Concert
- May 19 – Graduation – No School
- May 22 – Early Release and Last Day for students
Thank you all for your continued support and dedication to our students and our school.
In Partnership,
Maura Ridder
Middle School Director
Upcoming Events
CMAS Testing Information
April 14th – 18th
Read Here for more information!
6th and 7th Graders Day Off
April 15th
News and Updates
Update on Secondary Student IDS
Dear STEM Families,
We are dedicated to maintaining a safe environment for our students and staff. Safety is our number one priority and is a layered approach. One of the measures is to ensure that all students, staff, and visitors are identifiable on campus. Student IDs also alert office staff to who has off-campus permissions and allow students to quickly check in and out using our automated system. We ask for your continued support in ensuring your child is wearing an ID to school each day.
As time goes on, we understand that students will misplace their IDs and lanyards. We ordered another shipment of lanyards and ID holders, but our students are going through them pretty quickly.
After Fall Break, students will be charged $5 for replacements. This charge will run through their Myschoolbucks account. Please monitor the account and speak to your child about these charges if they occur.
Spartmart is looking into purchasing nicer, higher quality lanyards to sell as well and you may also purchase lanyards online.
Finally, because IDs are part of our dress code, if a student is not wearing an ID and does not have a temporary ID, they may be assigned a detention. Students have been made aware of this expectation.
Once again, we really appreciate your support. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to one of our building directors.
In partnership,
The STEM Admin Team
Tutoring during access in MS and HS commons
Our Math Society students are volunteering to assist with math homework during access periods (11-11:40 a.m.) on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Help will be available in both the Middle School and High School commons. Students who need support or want to catch up on homework should feel free to take advantage of this opportunity. Students should contact either their math teacher or access teacher to add their name to the list for help.