Spartan Update- Week of 9/1/25

Posted Date: 9/01/25 (2:46 PM)

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Spartan Update

Week of 9/1/25

Picture of a school that captures the SBMS school campus area under a bright, clear sky. The architecture is characterized by mid-century modern design elements: slanted rooftops with clean lines, supported by slender columns, giving a sense of openness and functionality.

The foreground features a row of trees, some with lush green foliage and others displaying vibrant autumnal colors, suggesting a transition in seasons. These trees add natural warmth and breathing space to the otherwise structured environment. Alongside the trees, neatly kept bushes and a paved walkway create a welcoming atmosphere for students or visitors.

In the background, the school buildings are made of stucco and large glass windows, emphasizing both durability and the importance of natural light. The overall scene evokes a tranquil, well-maintained educational setting.

Close-up of a woman with shoulder-length wavy brown hair. She is wearing glasses with black frames and a gray, possibly knit, turtleneck-style sweater. The sweater has a slightly asymmetrical design at the neckline, with two visible round, light gray or beige buttons.

Note from Principal Paula Nolan

Welcome to the 2025-2026 school year! We are very excited to have students fill the halls this week!

The excitement of a new school year can also carry some anxious feelings - new grade, new routines, new people, new haircut, etc... the list can go on and on. There are lots of unknowns at the beginning of the school year and that can be scary sometimes (for kids and families).

But what is known is that the staff at SBMS cares about the children who are entrusted to our care and we are here to help them and to partner with parents and guardians to support every student. Please encourage your child(ren) to ask staff for help if they need something at school.

What is The Spartan Update?

Our weekly newsletter, The Spartan Update provides information that you need to help your child be successful in school. Please read it each week for helpful reminders about school events, academic success, information about the school community, and other helpful info. Families are very busy so I try to keep this newsletter as focused and as helpful as possible.

Contact Me

I am here to be of service to our entire school community. Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, concerns, or just want to connect about how to help your child this school year. My contact information is below and also at the very bottom of every newsletter.

-Paula

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Paula Nolan

Principal

Spencer Butte Middle School

541-790-8300 | nolan_p@4j.lane.edu

First Days of School

6th Grade 9/3/25 9:00 AM

The first day of school for 6th graders will be 9/3/2025 (9:00-2:35). The school opens daily at 8:00, and students report directly to the cafeteria for breakfast or to the gym. Lunch is provided.

Our fantastic sixth grade first day is all about getting our sixth graders connected and comfortable with SBMS! Students will learn how to navigate the school, where their classes are, practice with their lockers, and meet their teachers. During their day, they will be led by teachers and Supersonic Spartan leaders. The Supersonic Spartan program builds positive relationships while helping 6th graders transition to middle school. Supersonic Spartan leaders are positive role models who want our new students to succeed. Students do not need to bring school supplies to school with them on 9/3/2025.

7th and 8th Grade 9/4/25 9:00 AM

All 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students are in class on 9/4/2025 (9:00 AM-3:40 PM). The school opens daily to students at 8:00 AM. After the building doors open, students report directly to the cafeteria for breakfast or simply to gather with friends until the bell sounds at 8:50 A.M. At that time, students go to class.

All students should bring their school supplies and be ready to start their day, seated in class at 9:00. Students who have ordered a bundle of school supplies from SBMS will pick up their supplies in their locker (for school supply purchases completed by 11:59 PM on 8/27/25).

The image is vibrant and energetic, designed to capture attention with bright, contrasting colors. At the center, two silhouettes of runners—are dynamically posed in mid-stride, symbolizing motion, speed, and athleticism. They are set against bold splashes of yellow and blue paint, which add a lively, youthful feel fitting for a middle school event.

The text is clear and direct, announcing the return of Middle School Cross Country. The key information is prominent: "Middle School Cross Country is Back!"

Cross Country 2025

Practices for our third season begon on 9/15! Coach Levi and Coach Christopher are excited to welcome 6th-8th graders to participate in cross country this season!

Registration and season information are located on our SBMS Cross Country 2025 Webpage.

Important- All athletes are required to have a current physical on file with the school to begin practices. Paper copies of the form are available at the front office.

Additional Questions?

Please contact the front office at 541-790-8300

Upcoming Events

Please click here for the SBMS Events Calendar

9/3- 6th Grade First Day of School

9/3- Chalk the Walk and Locker Preview Night (6:00-7:30)

9/4- 7th and 8th Grade First Day of School

9/8- Ice Cream Social (6:00-7:30)

9/25- Open House (6:00-8:00)

9/26- Picture Day

This image presents a succinct and powerful educational message using a bold color scheme and typography. The phrase "EVERY DAY MATTERS" is prominently displayed in an energetic font that alternates colors between light blue and orange, emphasizing urgency and importance. The words "EVERY DAY" are in light blue, evoking a feeling of calm and positivity, while "MATTERS" is in orange, which brings warmth and attention, suggesting the significance of each day.

Below this main phrase, a smaller, but equally impactful line reads "SCHOOL + YOU = SUCCESS." This equation-like format conveys a straightforward formula that reinforces the central idea: active participation in school combined with personal effort leads to success. The use of a plus sign and equals sign introduces a logical and motivational framework, encouraging viewers—likely students—to see their education as a clear pathway to achievement.

Middle School Success Tip: Attendance Counts Everyday!

Good attendance is closely linked to doing well in school. When students are in school every day, they have more opportunities to learn and grow. On the ﬂip side, if students are often absent, it's harder for them to stay on track. Every day of school counts towards your child's journey of growth and discovery. Chronic absence is deﬁned as 18 days a year—or just 2 days a month – even if those absences are excused!

Being present when information is delivered is critical. When your child misses one day or one lesson, that means when they return to school, they may have missed something critical to their understanding of the next several days of instruction. Consistently attending school helps students stay on track and feel conﬁdent in their progress. When students are present and they're actively engaged in their learning journey, this boosts their motivation and eagerness to return to school each day.

At SBMS the first bell rings at 8:50 AM, and classes begin at 9:00 AM. Students need to be in their assigned seats when the bell rings. If your student must be absent for medical appointments or due to illness, please call SBMS attendance line at 541-790-8325 within 48 hours to excuse the absence.

If you are having difficulty getting your child to school, please contact the office at 541-790-8300. We are here to support you and your child.

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How to Contact SBMS Staff

SBMS Website Link