Hello Falcon Families!
Welcome to the start of an exciting new quarter! As we hit the ground running in 2025, I’m proud of how our students have persevered and embraced the return to school. Despite some technical glitches the first week, their determination to get back into the swing of things was truly commendable.
We’ve already had some wonderful moments this month! On our first Thursday back, we were treated to a fantastic performance by Liberty High School’s performing arts students, showcasing the incredible opportunities awaiting our middle schoolers in high school. Our boys' basketball and cheer seasons kicked off with great energy last week - it was inspiring to see the packed house at our first home game!
Today, we take time to reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose vision of equality, justice, and unity continues to inspire us. As we honor his contributions, we’re also looking ahead to Black History Month in February, a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black leaders and innovators throughout history. Students interested in participating in our Black History Month presentation are invited to attend a planning meeting tomorrow after school in Room 215. We look forward to seeing their creativity and ideas come to life!
Later this week, we’ll celebrate our 4.0 students at the Platinum Lunch, launch our new “College Spirit Day” on Thursdays (wear college gear each Thursday), and look forward to a fun Flashback Friday spirit day, where everyone can dress like a little kid. We’re also excited to host the first Youth Advisory Panel (YAP) meeting on Friday, where student representatives selected from each TEAM class will meet with Superintendent Castaneda and Vice Principal Voqui to discuss important topics and ideas.
Looking ahead, February promises even more exciting events, including our next school dance, a visit from the San Francisco Shakespeare Company, and a rally to honor the academic achievements from Quarter 2. Thank you for your continued support as we create memorable experiences for our students!
If you have any questions, email me at jkeith@byron.k12.ca.us.
Sincerely,
Ms. Jamie Keith
EMS Principal
We are excited to share the results of the 2025 EMS Spelling Bee! This year, we held two rounds of the prestigious Scripps National Spelling Bee at our school. Every student participated in the first round, which was a spelling test administered in their English classes. From that initial round, 21 students advanced to our second round, with 18 of them competing in our live spelling bee on Thursday, January 16th.
After a very competitive contest that stretched to 18 rounds, congratulations are in order for 6th grader Ivi Pahang, who emerged as the 2025 EMS Spelling Bee champion! Nolan Young, also a 6th grader, took second place. Both Ivi and Nolan will move on to represent EMS at the regional competition in February.
We are incredibly proud of all our contestants for their hard work and dedication. Reaching the school-level bee is an impressive accomplishment and we congratulate each participant for their commitment to excellence.
Photo: Runner up Nolan Young and Spelling Bee Winner Ivi Pahang
Originally, our PTSA had planned a winter clothing drive for our students, ending on Friday, January 17th. However, in response to the catastrophic fires in Los Angeles, the PTSA has extended the deadline through Friday, January 24th to collect clothing for those affected. They will accept all sizes and types of clothing, which should be new or gently used and clean. Please note that undergarments should be new and in their original packaging. Donations can be dropped off at the EMS office. Thank you for your generosity and support!
Interested in joining our PTSA? Please click HERE! The money collected through our PTSA memebership dues goes towards school activities and improvements!
At Excelsior, we’re proud to provide year-round opportunities for our students to grow as athletes, teammates, and individuals. Our sports programs aim to teach life skills such as teamwork, perseverance, and respect both on and off the court.
As we cheer on our boys' basketball and cheerleading teams this season, we’d like to gently remind our families and fans to model the same sportsmanship we expect from our athletes. Let’s work together to:
- Cheer positively for all players and focus on their effort and progress.
- Respect our coaches and trust their decisions, knowing they have every player’s best interests in mind.
- Encourage good sportsmanship by treating referees, opponents, and each other with kindness.
Our students are watching and learning from us, so let’s show them the value of respect and support in every situation. Thank you for being an essential part of our school community and for helping us create a positive environment for everyone involved!
Excelsior Middle School
Email: jkeith@byron.k12.ca.us
Website: https://www.excelsiormiddleschool.us/
Location: 14301 Byron Highway, Byron, CA, USA
Phone: 925-809-7530
Twitter: @EMSFalcons