Principal

I hope you are having a restful and restorative summer! While there are still a few weeks left to soak up the season, I am excited to welcome back our returning families and extend a heartfelt greeting to those joining the Bison community for the first time. We’re gearing up for an incredible school year full of growth, connection, and new opportunities. I can’t wait to get started together!

 

The first day of school is Monday, August 25th. To support a smooth transition into high school, freshmen will begin the day at 8:00 a.m., following an abbreviated schedule that lets them run through their classes and get comfortable before upperclassmen arrive. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors will join us at 10:00 a.m., and all students will then complete a full day using the Late Start Schedule. Transportation will be provided for both arrival times. Click here to see the Day 1 Student Schedule for 2025-2026.

 

As you probably know, the reason we are starting school later this year is due to the addition of our brand-new, state-of-the-art STEM wing, which will elevate the learning experience for every Bison. This stunning addition includes 10 cutting-edge science labs, 2 computer science labs, a monumental learning stair to support collaboration and community, and an abundance of much-needed new bathrooms. This wing isn’t just an addition, it’s an opportunity! An opportunity to engage, explore, and level up learning for all students at Fenton High School. 

 

We’d love for you to experience the new wing firsthand before the school-year begins! Join us for our Sneak Peek Night on Monday, August 18th from 5–8 p.m. During this open house, students and families can walk their schedules, explore the new wing, and connect with school administrators who can answer any of your questions about the upcoming year. We hope to see you there!

 

Our schoolwide theme this year is: “Level Up! Every Day. Every Class. Every Bison.” This theme reflects our belief that every student has the power to grow, improve, and take on new challenges. I want each student to build on the strong foundation that has already been built and to push themselves, and those around them, to the next level. The goal is for every Bison to level up their attendance, academics, extracurricular involvement, and school spirit. Whether it’s trying something new, building positive habits, or going all-in for Bison Nation, every step forward matters. And we will be doing it together!

 

 

 

 

In order to level up, students need to be at school. Our top priority remains daily attendance. Last year, we made improvements in both our overall attendance rate and our on time to class rate! The majority of our students were in class and on-time and we are confident the same will be true this year.  Being in school on time and every day is the single most important factor in a student’s success. We know that regular attendance is not only essential for academic growth, but it also helps young adults build strong social connections and supports positive mental health. 

 

We need your help and partnership in this effort and in further levelling up our attendance! We’re asking all families to join us in making attendance a daily commitment. You can expect more regular communication when your student is absent, tardy, or late. And if problematic patterns emerge early in the year, you’ll be invited to meet with us to create a support plan. We believe in early, proactive support, because every day truly counts.

 

When students are in class, we expect them to be engaged with their teachers and their peers. Appropriate cell phone usage improved last year and we will continue to focus on using phones and technology at appropriate times. Cell phones are to be turned off and put away for every class at Fenton High School, this includes Bison Time and study hall. We take this expectation very seriously. Students are able to use their phones during lunch and passing periods. Please reinforce these expectations with your students at home. This further aligns with our goal of leveling up our academic performance and engagement for all.

 

This year, we’ll also continue to prioritize student well-being and safety. Through our partnerships with YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago and BeSure Consulting, students will receive critical education around healthy boundaries, digital citizenship, and making informed choices both in-person and online. These programs help us continue building a school culture that is safe, inclusive, and empowering for every student. Be on the lookout for more info and opportunities to get involved.

 

Let’s make this year one to remember! One where every Bison commits to leveling up: showing up, stepping up, and lifting one another up. Together, let’s bring the energy, pride, and purpose that make Fenton such a special place to learn and grow.

I can’t wait to see you!