Roughrider District News
Southwest Public Schools
Superintendent Message
Dear Southwest Public School Families,
It’s hard to believe we are less than a month away from the end of the school year! April and May are always busy months for our students with field trips, activities, competitions, concerts, ceremonies, and important tests. Please check the school calendar on our district website often to get the latest information about upcoming events and important dates.
With so much going on, it’s very important that students come to school on time and attend every day if they can. Being in school regularly helps students learn better and not miss important lessons. If you have any questions, please reach out to your child’s teacher—they are happy to help.
As the school year ends, I encourage all families to log in to Infinite Campus regularly to check lunch balances, see if there are any missing assignments, look at grades, and check attendance. Please remember that all student bills and balances must be paid before students can leave for the summer. Staying up to date helps our students finish the year well.
I’m happy to share that our Beef in Schools program is doing great. We have already received three beef donations, which are now being incorporated of our lunch program. This program helps us provide healthy meals, and we thank everyone who has helped and donated. Our students are lucky to eat fresh, home-raised beef from our hardworking ranchers.
We are excited to announce that Graduation will be on Saturday, May 10th, at the Jr./Sr. High School in Bartley, starting at 10:30 AM. This is a special day to celebrate our seniors, their families, and the whole school community. We invite everyone to come and celebrate the hard work of our graduating seniors. This is a great class, and we wish them all the best in what comes next.
Thank you for your ongoing support of Southwest Public Schools. Let’s finish the year strong together!
Sincerely,
Drew Billeter
Superintendent, Southwest Public Schools
Dear Southwest Families,
As the 2024–2025 school year comes to an end, the only word that truly captures my feelings is grateful. I am grateful for our amazing staff, administration, and school board, all of whom put our students first and are deeply dedicated to helping them learn and grow. I am grateful for the families who attend our school and the continued support we receive from you. Most of all, I am grateful for the opportunity to work with such wonderful children each and every day. We are truly blessed by our school community.
Teacher Appreciation Week – May 5–9
Next week is Teacher Appreciation Week! If you have a moment, please consider writing a note of thanks to your child's teacher. Our teachers do so much—beyond teaching reading, writing, and math, they instill values like empathy, responsibility, and critical thinking. They shape not only minds, but hearts, and we are proud to have some of the very best in our schools.
Elementary Spring Program: Preschool-5th Grade – Thursday, May 1
Please join us for the Elementary Spring Program on Thursday, May 1st at 7:00 PM in the Bartley gymnasium. Students have been working hard to prepare a variety of songs, and we can’t wait for you to see the results of their efforts. It’s sure to be a spectacular evening!
Kindergarten-6th Grade Field Day – Thursday, May 15
Get ready for one of the most exciting events of the year—Field Day is happening on Thursday, May 15th at the football field in Bartley!
- Students will depart the elementary school by bus at 11:15 AM.
- A school-provided sack lunch will be eaten at the field.
- Field Day events begin at 12:10 PM.
The Southwest Foundation will be serving food at the concession stand for all spectators—come hungry and help support our school!
Last Day of School – Thursday, May 21
The final day of school is Thursday, May 21st, and we will have early dismissal. Students will be dismissed from the Elementary at 12:45. Please note: there will be no after-school daycare on this day.
Elementary Summer School – June 2–26 (Mon–Thurs, 8:30–11:30 AM)
Summer school will run from June 2nd–26th, Monday through Thursday (no Fridays), from 8:30 to 11:30 AM. If you received a letter about summer school, please return the form ASAP to confirm your child’s attendance.
We ask families to commit to attending at least 12 out of the 16 days.
Didn’t receive a letter but think your child would benefit? Call the elementary office—this opportunity is open to all students who want to extend their learning!
As always, thank you for your ongoing partnership and support. It’s been a wonderful year, and I’m so proud of all that our students and staff have accomplished. We couldn’t do it without you!
Warm regards,
Tara Fries
Elementary Principal
The 2024/45 year has been a great educational success for the students and the staff. The staff and the students have spent a lot of time working toward reaching the goals they set back in August. Our state test has shown improvement from the past year. That is attributed to the kids working hard and the teachers always challenging them in the classroom.
The month of May is a short month in terms of school. These are a few dates that you may want to keep open on your calendar. ****May 10th is Graduation at the high school at 10:30. On May 15th we will host the Elementary field day. It starts at 12:00 at the track in Bartley. May 21st is also the last day of school for 2025.
Summer school will once again take place this year to help students catch up on credit recovery. The Junior/Senior High summer school program is designed to get the students who may be low in English or Math skills extra help. This will hopefully ensure they are ready for the next level of course work when school resumes. Summer school will be Monday through Thursday from 8:30 to 11:30.
The class schedules for next year have been finalized. We have spent a lot of time working to ensure students are able to take the classes they wish. However, there is a slight possibility that a specific class may not fit. If you have not visited with your child, I would encourage you to ask them what they signed up for in the fall semester. The schedule is designed to fit the request students made this year. So, when the fall term hits it is hard to make changes and still get the classes they want.
Matt Springer
JH/SH Principal
Counselor's Corner- Mrs. Smith
As we wrap up the school year, it's important to recognize the value of summer as a time for rest, family, and fun—but also as a chance to maintain learning and healthy routines. A flexible schedule that includes time for play, learning, and relaxation can help children stay balanced. Flexibility allows for exploration and much-needed breaks, while consistency helps maintain the academic progress, structure, and behavior routines built during the school year. This balance supports not only continued growth but also positive mental health and an easier transition back to school in the fall.
Simple daily goals—like 15 minutes of reading, practicing math facts, or making the bed—can keep routines in place and reinforce key skills. Outings to local parks, museums, or science centers, as well as library programs, are great ways to combine learning with family time. While summer brings excitement, it can also bring challenges like disrupted routines or missing school friends. Including mindfulness activities such as deep breathing or nature walks can help children feel calm and connected. With a thoughtful mix of structure and downtime, families can help avoid the “summer slump” and set students up for success when they return in the fall.
Last week, our third-grade students gathered for one final visit with their beloved "Good Friends," marking the close of another heartwarming year of connection and shared memories. Our finale was filled with joy and laughter, as students and friends came together for a delightful afternoon.
Our third graders gave gifts of hand-made bird seed cookies for their good friends to hang in their yards. Guests enjoyed delicious cake generously provided by Janet Cornwell, and rounds of lively bingo that kept everyone smiling. Ms. Lambing graciously served the cake, and Mrs. Kennedy called bingo!
The students also gave a special musical preview, performing selections from their upcoming spring concert under the direction of Ms. Hanson. Their heartfelt performance added a lovely note to the day's festivities,
A very special thank you goes to Mrs. Springer in the office for her behind-the-scenes help with organizing and mailings all year long. Another special thank you goes out to Mrs. Patterson, our third-grade para-professional, for her support all year long. These ladies help make this meaningful program possible!
As we say goodbye for the summer, we extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed their time and heart to this program, especially our GOOD FRIENDS! Wishing all of you a restful and happy summer-thank you for being part of something truly special.
