SDMA October Update

SDMA October Update
Posted on 10/31/2025
Dear SDMA Families and Staff,

Happy Halloween! As the month of October concludes, we celebrate the successful completion of the first quarter of the 2025-26 school year. It has been a strong start, with remarkable accomplishments by our students and staff both in the classroom and in their various sports and activities.

🏆 Student Spotlight: Good Luck at State!

We send a huge congratulations and best of luck to both the Boys and Girls Cross Country teams who will be competing at the State Meet this Saturday!

🗓️ Important Dates & Second Quarter Reminders

Please note the following key items as we transition into the next quarter:
  • Thanksgiving Break: As noted on the SDMA District Calendar, there will be no school during the entire week of Thanksgiving. (November 24–28).
  • Winter Activities: Schedules for winter sports and activities are now posted on the district website. Be sure to catch the fall play at MHS on November 6–8!

🌨️ Inclement Weather Alert System Test

We hope for a mild winter, but we're preparing now!
  • Test Alert Next Week: The district will send a test message next week to help ensure your family is signed up for snow day alerts via ParentSquare.
  • Check Your Contact Info: Please remember that families control their contact information and communication preferences through the Skyward Family Access Portal and ParentSquare.
  • Need Help? Contact the SDMA Technology Department if you need any assistance setting up your family's communications.

🍎 Student Meal Assistance

Despite growing concerns with the federal government shutdown, we want to assure all families that the Free and Reduced Meals program in the SDMA is secure and available. We encourage any family who may qualify—including furloughed federal employees—to apply. 

Please note that Stepping Stones also offers the Project SAM weekend kids' meal program, and free evening meals are available in Menomonie at United Methodist Church (Mondays), St. Joe's Catholic Church (Tuesdays), Christ Lutheran Church (Wednesdays), and First Congregational Church (Thursdays). 

Contributing to the SDMA School Nutrition Angel Fund is a great way for anyone wishing to help SDMA students and families.

🤝 Commitment to Communication and Problem Solving

Schools are built on people, and we are committed to making our schools the best they can be. If a concern arises, we want to help solve it quickly and effectively.
  • Best Practice for Resolution: The most efficient way to resolve an issue is to start by communicating directly with the classroom teacher, coach, or school employee closest to the situation. Our principals, department directors, and I are also here to support that process.
  • Direct Communication is Best: We strongly encourage families to use the school district's formal communication channels rather than social media when voicing concerns. This ensures your issue is directed to the appropriate staff member for a faster, more effective resolution.

💚 Youth Suicide Prevention Resources

In accordance with the Department of Public Instruction, we want to remind families of available resources for Youth Suicide Prevention. Our school counselors are here to help and support your student. Please do not hesitate to use the resources listed in the DPI notice.
Thank you for a tremendous first quarter, and best wishes for a fun and safe Halloween weekend!

Sincerely,

Joe Zydowsky
___________________________________
Joseph E. Zydowsky, PhD
District Administrator
School District of the Menomonie Area
215 Pine Avenue NE
Menomonie, WI 54751
[email protected]
www.twitter.com/joezydowsky
Phone: (715) 232-1642