East Middle School

As we celebrate American Education Week, today’s shoutout goes to Mr. Robinson at East Middle School. Someone shared their appreciation for the kindness and positivity he brings to his interactions, noting the difference it makes in their school experience. We are #TigerProud! #AmericanEducationWeek 🇺🇸

This American Education Week shoutout recognizes Ms. Aasen at East Middle School. A family shared how her dedication to music education has increased student interest and enthusiasm for music. We are #TigerProud! 🐾 #AmericanEducationWeek 🇺🇸

Join us for our next Foundation Friday on December 12 as we focus on Achievement and Arts. You’ll hear how students learn and lead through vocal music, explore Project Lead the Way (PLTW) pathways in health science, engineering, and cyber security, and tour facilities as we navigate the benefits of movement through wellness. We’ll review the Annual Report and wrap up with a panel featuring learners and staff in each area. 🔗 REGISTER: https://bit.ly/42vNIWb

DOE seeks nominations for 2026 SPED Staff of the Year
The department’s Office of Special Education Programs is accepting nominations for the 2026 SPED Staff of the Year award (https://forms.gle/opekEPdTMPdPPFMu8). Parents or guardians may nominate SPED teachers, SPED directors, speech/language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, school psychologists, or paraprofessionals who made an outstanding impact in their child’s education and have served in their profession for three or more years. Nominations are due Jan. 9 and the announcement will be at the South Dakota SPED Conference in Sioux Falls on March 4. Please share this information with your school community. Contact Stacy Holzbauer (Stacy.Holzbauer@state.sd.us) with questions.

Big things are happening across HSD! South Middle School’s Business Club shared how they built a schoolwide ROAR Store that rewards students for showing respect, ownership, acceptance, and responsibility. East Middle School earned national recognition as an Apple Distinguished School for its innovative use of technology in learning. And Liberty Elementary presented how creative scheduling enables a more efficient use of time and provides better support for specials, counseling, and technology. We are #TigerProud! 🐾

We’re planning for the future of HSD! 🎯
As part of our new Strategic Plan, we’re gathering input from families, staff, students, and community members to help shape the next chapter for our district.
Your voice matters—share your thoughts on what’s working well and where we can grow together.
📅 Link will be open until December 19th. 🔗 Participate here: https://bit.ly/HSDStrategic

As we enter the holiday season, our community continues to come together to support HSD families in meaningful ways. Whether you’re looking to give or are in need of assistance, there are opportunities for everyone to take part. 🐾 https://harrisburgsd.edurooms.com/engage/harrisburg-school-district/newsletters/neighbors-helping-neighbors

✨Premiering TONIGHT!✨ HHS Drama Club presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream 🎭
📍 HHS PAC
🗓️ Nov 6 @ 7 PM | Nov 7 @ 7 PM | Nov 8 @ 1 PM
🎟️ Tickets: https://www.vancoevents.com/us/DFXY

🧥 Layers of Love: Winter Coat Drive
Cold days are here, and we’re collecting coats to help HSD families stay warm.
📍 Drop off at Harrisburg High School or Freshman Academy — ᴏʀ ʙʀɪɴɢ ᴅᴏɴᴀᴛɪᴏɴs ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ɴᴏᴠ. ⁴ ᴠᴏʟʟᴇʏʙᴀʟʟ ɢᴀᴍᴇ ᴀᴛ ʜʜs. 🏐
📅 Nov. 3–14
🧤 New or gently used coats (adult sizes S–XXXL), plus gloves and hats of all sizes