Sept. 12th Newsletter

Posted Date: 9/12/25 (9:35 AM)

Wolfpack News

Arts & Technology Academy

Hello ATA Families & Friends

Dear ATA Middle School Families & Friends,

I consider myself incredibly fortunate to join such a wonderful, brilliant, and passionate community as your new principal. The warmth and dedication I have witnessed from students, families, and staff during my first week have exceeded all expectations.

Our return to school has proven to be a tremendous success. I have enjoyed watching your children arrive each morning with genuine smiles on their faces, and I have heard laughter echoing throughout our hallways—clear indicators of the positive energy that fills our school. Your students have embraced the new school year with enthusiasm and curiosity that inspires me daily.

Our staff has demonstrated nothing short of extraordinary commitment to your children's success. I have witnessed teachers and support staff go above and beyond to create welcoming, engaging learning environments. They too arrive with smiles and contribute to the joyful atmosphere that permeates our building. These positive signs reflect the strong culture we continue to build together.

During our orientation with incoming sixth graders, I emphasized the importance of staying curious throughout their middle school journey. I encouraged them to ask questions boldly and embrace mistakes as valuable learning opportunities. I challenged them to explore new ideas, step outside their comfort zones, and form meaningful friendships that will enrich their educational experience. I invite you to reinforce this message at home, and I encourage seventh and eighth grade families to share this same guidance with their children.

Finally, I want to assure you that my door remains open. Several of you have already taken advantage of this invitation, and I encourage others to reach out with questions, suggestions for school improvement, or any concerns you may have. Your input strengthens our school community and helps us better serve your children.

Thank you for entrusting us with your children's education. I look forward to partnering with you throughout this school year.

Take care,

Dr. G

School Information

Student Health

Every year, as students and staff come together in the building after the Summer Break, there is a spike in sickness. Students should not be sent to school with the following conditions:

∙ A temperature over 100 degrees. Students are to remain home until they are fever free without the use of medication for 24 hours.

∙ A stomach ache, diarrhea, or inability to

keep food down.

∙ A rash.

Medications

Over the counter medications must be checked into the office, not carried by the students. Prescription medications need to be in the original container, properly labeled with dosage, & proper paperwork must be completed by a parent or guardian. Meds are stored in a locked cupboard in the health room.

Medication consent forms and details are available in the front office.

Regular school attendance and punctuality are important.

Attendance

When a student is absent or running late, we request that the parent/guardian call the 24 hour school attendance line (541-790-5725) or email the school attendance line (ata_attendance@4j.lane.edu) to notify the school of your students absence.

Under Oregon law, an absence is excusable if your student is:

Sick
Has a medical appointment
There is an illness in the family
Has a planned absence approved by an administrator
The school Administrator may also excuse a student’s absence for other reasons where satisfactory arrangements are made, and the excuse is deemed excusable

If we do not receive a notification from a parent/guardian, or if the reason for an absence/late is unacceptable, the absence/late may go unexcused.

Oregon law also notes that if a student is absent for 10 consecutive school days regardless if their absence if excused or not, the student will be dropped and will need to re-enroll.

Upcoming Events

Cross Country Practices Begin - Monday, Sept. 15th 4:00 - 5:30

For registration information, click here!

Back to Band Night on Monday, September 15th: This will be an opportunity to get tons of vital information from Faris about what being in the band program here at ATA looks like. Additionally, representatives from Beacock Music will be present to help with instrument rentals. All Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced Band members and their families are strongly encouraged to attend from 5:30 - 6:30pm in the ATA Cafeteria.

Curriculum Night - Wednesday, Sept. 17th 5:30 - 7:30

Parents & Guardians are welcome to come experience their student's schedule, traveling to each class, learning about the curriculum through short info sessions by the teachers.