WELCOME TO SANDPOINT HIGH SCHOOL

October 2026

Dear Bulldog Students, Families, and Friends,

What a great start to the school year! From our opening Stronger Together assembly to a Mentor Class–led longest table lunch for 1,200 students and staff and a schoolwide carnival—all within our first four days—our students set the tone for a year centered on connection, learning, and Bulldog pride.

At our recent Student of the Month breakfast, students shared that this year already feels like one of the best yet. I couldn’t agree more. Thank you, families, for the important role you play. Your partnership in supporting attendance, academics, activities, and positive choices helps us inspire learning in every student, every day.

Investing in Every Student

We begin October with staff professional development focused on differentiated instruction, helping teachers respond to students who need additional support while also extending learning for students ready for greater challenge.

Students will also complete fall literacy and math assessments. These screenings provide teachers with valuable information about student strengths and areas for growth. When needed, additional diagnostic assessments may be used to help us better understand a student’s learning needs. Our purpose is simple: use what we learn to provide the right support, challenge, and opportunities for every student to grow.

Homecoming 2026 Bulldog Spirit!

Homecoming is here! This Friday, the Bulldogs take on Moscow, and this year’s theme is Camo. Homecoming is one of our favorite SHS traditions, bringing together students, families, alumni, and our community.

As we cheer on our Bulldogs, we ask everyone to help us model positivity, pride, and good sportsmanship. Let’s fill the stands and celebrate all that makes SHS special! We’ll wrap up the week Saturday evening with the Homecoming Dance at The Hive, hosted by Student Council.

Flex Fridays Begin October 9

Flex Fridays return this month as an opportunity to recognize students who are meeting expectations in academics, attendance, and behavior.

Families will receive an email on October 7 if their student qualifies to flex. Parent permission is required, and qualifying students may flex between one and four Fridays per month. Friday remains a regular school day, and students who do not qualify are expected to attend. Students who earn the opportunity to flex may still attend if they want support, extra time, or missed classwork due to absences or activities.

Flex Friday is about more than earning time away from school; it encourages students to take responsibility for their learning, attendance, and choices while allowing us to provide additional support and extension when students need it.

Attendance Matters

Consistent attendance remains one of the most important ways families can support student success. We understand that illness and unexpected circumstances happen, but every day—and every class period—matters. Your support in helping students arrive on time and attend consistently builds habits of responsibility, perseverance, and engagement that extend well beyond high school.

Stronger Together

October is a wonderful time to be a Bulldog. Whether you are cheering from the stands, checking grades at home, encouraging good attendance, or simply asking your student about their day, you are an important part of our SHS team.

Thank you for your continued partnership and for entrusting us with your students. Together, we are building a school where students feel connected, challenged, supported, and inspired to learn.

With gratitude,

Jacki Crossingham, Principal
Go Bulldogs! 🐾