Dear SDMA Families and Staff,

The 2024-25 school year is off to a great start!  Thank you to everyone who has helped children in the SDMA get into routines for another school year.

The beginning of the school year is an exciting time in our schools and community. In addition to many fun classroom lessons, many of our students are involved in various school and community activities. Next week's homecoming activities will once again include a parade, several local sporting events, school dress up days, a dance, and a community "block party". Please see the special homecoming attachment from Menomonie's Let's Paint the Town! committee for more information related to next week's celebration.

A few other important items to share today include:
Motor Vehicle Policy Update- a new ordinance in the City of Menomonie will allow for the use of UTVs and ATVs on many city streets beginning October 1. These vehicles will be allowed on school grounds within the parameters included in the city ordinance (e.g. drivers license, required vehicle safety features, helmets for youth riders, etc.). Similar to other motor vehicles, use of UTVs and ATVs on school grounds shall be limited to paved roadways and parking lots.
Bus Safety- now that schools are back in session, please be on the lookout for school buses traveling on local roadways. Remember that drivers must stop on the street or highway 20 feet or more from any school bus that has stopped and is flashing red warning lights. More information about bus safety is listed on the Wisconsin Department of Transportation website.
School Safety- there was a deadly school shooting last week near Atlanta. While all schools in the SDMA have comprehensive school safety plans, it is very important that we all work together to keep our school and community safe. Please be sure that all firearms are kept under lock and key, and "if you see something, say something". In addition to sharing concerning behaviors with the building principal, Youth Services Officer, or any school employee, the SDMA also has a Speak Up for Safety Tip Line that can be accessed 24/7.
Youth Suicide Prevention- September is suicide prevention month, and we all play a vital role in supporting our students, staff, and each other. The 2024 Annual Notice from the Wisconsin Department of Instruction is available on the DPI website in several languages including: English, Spanish & Hmong. Please do not hesitate to contact your child's building principal and/or school counselor about any behavior concerns.

It is always amazing how time seems to fly once the school year begins. It won't be long before the October professional development day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and winter break. The 2024-25 school calendar is posted on the district website for anyone who would like to plan ahead.