Submitted by Sheridan Community Schools
The buzz of excitement filled the air at Sheridan Community Schools on Tuesday as students were welcomed back for a brand-new school year.
With innovative changes across the district, from elementary to high school, and even transportation, the upcoming academic year promises to be one of growth, learning, and community-building.
Better Together Indeed
Sheridan Elementary’s focus on unity & growth
Roberts
Sheridan Elementary School (SES) Principal Valerie Roberts shared the school’s theme for the year: “Better Together Indeed!”
With the belief that “Blackhawks fly better together,” SES is dedicated to fostering a sense of unity and collaboration among its students and staff. Mrs. Roberts highlighted some of the exciting updates at the elementary school, including a comprehensive school-wide discipline plan designed to address post-pandemic challenges and more trauma-related discipline issues.
“We introduced it to the staff at our meeting last week, and we are excited to kick it off this year,” Mrs. Roberts said. The new discipline plan distinguishes between minor and major behaviors and incorporates an RTI behavioral intervention component, reflecting the school’s commitment to supporting students’ holistic growth.
Additionally, the arrival of a new art teacher, Madeline Sweger, brings the promise of art therapy to students, adding an exciting dimension to their educational experience. With a full staff of dedicated educators, SES welcomed approximately 550 students back with open arms and a special red-carpet roll-out for kindergarteners.
Sheridan Middle School
Blackhawk Pride
Davis
Sheridan Middle School (SMS) Principal Kent Davis shared that SMS is excited to start back with Blackhawk Pride.
This is the 30th school year of SMS, with the building opening in August 1994. New staff members at SMS include Chuck Sears, eighth-grade Math; Michael Fenneman, seventh-grade Math; Josh Cooper, sixth- and seventh-grade Social Studies; Mallory Johnson, seventh-grade ELA; Elaine Morgan, seventh-grade Science; and Scott Sears seventh- and eighth-grade Wellness.
“One of the many advantages of a smaller school is that students get individual attention,” Mr. Davis said. “We do all we can to make all students feel welcome and part of our school community.”
Davis encouraged parents to reach out to him if they had questions throughout the school year.
Sheridan High School
A year of growth & innovation
Davis
Sheridan High School (SHS), under the leadership of Principal Rick Davis, is gearing up for an exciting year of growth and innovation. The addition of Mr. Jason Marer as Assistant Principal brings fresh perspectives and expertise to the school community.
“We look forward to integrating Mr. Jason Marer into the Blackhawk Family and utilizing his experience, skills, and abilities to further move Sheridan HS forward,” Mr. Davis said.
The summer was marked by significant projects, including the launch of the Northern Hamilton County Academy and the introduction of new courses.
“We will be offering several new courses this school year including adding a Human Services Pathway to our CTE curriculum, Dual Credit Math136 (Precalculus/Trigonometry), Advanced Placement Physics, and a totally redesigned Preparing for College and Careers,” Mr. Davis said. He also highlighted the opportunity for qualifying students to earn the Indiana College Core block of college credits.
Davis expressed his enthusiasm for the new school year, saying, “We are all super excited to get the year rolling!” With a focus on “Better” driving the initiatives, SHS is set to celebrate its 100th Homecoming on Sept. 16 and experience a total eclipse on April 8, 2024.
Mundy
Superintendent Dave Mundy added, “We have a lot to look forward to this upcoming year. We have a lot of new, but veteran teachers, joining our outstanding staff. As well we are continuing to grow our programs and think outside the box on how we can offer our students whatever classes they may want. Our internship program, led by Mrs. Williams, is taking off at unprecedented levels.”
Soaring smoothly with Enhanced Transportation Services
Sheridan Schools’ Transportation Director Eric Gifford assured families of a smooth start to the school year with a focus on safety and efficiency. The introduction of a new routing software promises improved communication and convenience for parents.
“This will be an app-based system that will show students’ busing information, such as pick-up/drop-off time, and stop location,” Gifford said.
With all open positions filled, the transportation department is fully staffed, ensuring a seamless start to the year. Gifford emphasized the importance of patience during the first week of school as routes are adjusted for optimal efficiency. He also shared the great news that all school buses have passed the state police inspection without any issues.
Mundy added, “We have really spent time this summer analyzing the results from the parents’ surveys, and I look forward to sharing some of this information as well as other items in my upcoming community meeting on Monday, Aug. 28 at 6 p.m. at Sheridan Elementary School.”
With dedicated educators, innovative programs, and a commitment to excellence, Sheridan Community Schools is dedicated to making the academic year one to remember.
Mundy concluded by sharing that overall enrollment as a district has increased slightly and this is mainly due to transfer numbers, adding, “We welcome all these students as they are an important part of our school culture.”
Information for current and future Blackhawks can be found at scs.k12.in.us.