BEYOND THE BELL

Welcome Back to School – 2025-26 School Year 

September 2025

Greetings Students, Families, and Staff,

I am excited to welcome everyone back for the start of a new school year! The first days of school always bring an incredible sense of energy and possibility. Our hallways are once again buzzing with conversation, our classrooms are alive with curiosity, and our playground is filled with laughter.

Welcoming New Staff

We are pleased to welcome several new teachers and staff members to our district family. Each brings unique skills, talents, and passion for helping students succeed. We look forward to the positive impact they will make in our classrooms and community. The new staff are as follows: Monique Clark (6-12 Teacher MS/HS Yearbook), Elizabeth Hartz (Special Education Teacher Elementary), Brad Morris (MS/HS ScienceTeacher -Part Time), Kristine Schuldt (5-12 Instrumental Music), Colin Williams (6-12 MS/HS Social Studies Teacher), Carissa Holmes (MS/HS Secretary), Samantha French (Paraprofessional Special Education), Ashlee Savage (Paraprofessional Special Education) and Ben Koenig (IT Coordinator-not present for picture).

Family & Community Engagement

We invite families to attend upcoming parent-teacher conferences, volunteer at school events, and stay engaged. Strong partnerships between home and school help every student thrive.

As we begin this school year, I am reminded that the heart of our success lies in our relationships — the connections between students, teachers, staff, and families. Let’s work together to make this year a safe, successful, and inspiring experience for all.

Here’s to a great 2025-2026 school year!

Sincerely,
Kevin Shetler, Ed.D, Superintendent

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE-CAMPUS IMPROVEMENTS UPDATE

AUGUST 2025

Dear Families, Staff, and Community Members,

As we move through the heart of summer, I want to take a moment to share some exciting updates about the progress we’re making across our school district—particularly in improving the spaces where our students learn, grow, and connect each day.

Over the past year, we’ve made it a priority to invest in facility upgrades that support both safety and student experience. Two key projects are well underway, and I’m pleased to share a brief update with you:

Front Entrance Project

Construction is now almost complete on a redesigned main entrance and commons area access. This project focuses on functionality and aesthetic design, ensuring that all visitors enter through a clearly designated, welcoming, and appealing space. In addition to improving traffic flow and visibility, this concrete entryway will provide safer access for students and families, particularly during busy morning and afternoon times.

Once complete, this area will serve as a central, accessible hub for our school community—reinforcing our commitment to accessibility, and school pride.

Playground Project

We’re equally excited about the improvements being made to our elementary school playground. The new design emphasizes inclusive play, safety features, and age-appropriate equipment for all students. Renovation has begun, and we expect completion in time for students to enjoy it early in the school year.This updated playground will provide a fun, safe, and engaging space for students for years to come.

🏠 New School Roof

Finally, one of the most critical infrastructure projects—our roof replacement—is moving forward as planned. After years of routine maintenance and patching, we’re investing in a complete new roofing system to ensure the long-term integrity of our building.

This new roof will:

• Improve energy efficiency

• Prevent leaks and weather-related issues

• Enhance building safety and comfort

• Extend the lifespan of our school facility
  
  

We’re grateful for the teams working diligently to complete this project with minimal disruption to our summer programs and school operations.

These projects reflect a broader vision for our district—one where learning happens not only inside the classroom, but throughout a supportive and thoughtfully designed campus.

Stay Tuned!!  Next Month Blog Topic: Siren School Finance Update 

As always, thank you for your continued support, encouragement, and involvement in our schools. Together, we’re creating an environment where every student can feel safe, inspired, and proud.

With gratitude,

Kevin Shetler, Ed.D.

Superintendent

Siren School District