MMS Newsletter
May 22, 2026
A Message from MMS Principal Jay Reutter
As we close the doors on another school year at Mason Middle School, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for your partnership, your support, your encouragement, and for trusting us with your children each and every day.
This year brought moments of celebration, challenge, growth, laughter, resilience, and reflection. We watched students discover new passions, overcome obstacles, support one another, and continue becoming the young people they are meant to be. Middle school is such an important chapter in the story of a child, and it is a privilege for all of us at MMS to walk alongside them during these years.
Today is the last day of school, and with it comes so many emotions. Some students are racing toward summer excited for what is ahead. Others are feeling the weight of change, transitions, and goodbyes. Both are okay. Growth often comes with a mix of excitement and uncertainty.
As we head into summer, I hope our students find time to rest, explore, laugh, spend time outside, make memories with family and friends, and maybe even discover a really good book along the way.
Before we close out the year, I also want to celebrate some incredible accomplishments from our students.
The State Power of the Pen writing tournament was held at Ashland University on May 17 and 18, with over 500 students from more than 200 schools across Ohio participating. Our Mason Middle School team earned an outstanding 4th place finish in the state competition. Congratulations to seventh-grade writers Alice Zheng and Makenzie Ross, who placed fifth and fourth individually.
A special congratulations as well to Mishti Girdhar and Alice Zheng, who earned Platinum Pen Awards at the Regional Tournament. Their writing will be published in the Power of the Pen Book of Winners. Additional contributors to the team’s success included Ishwari Damle, Kundhana Mahali, Ivanna Arcos Solano, Joshika Jeyaprakash, Jyotsna Karthikeyan, and Annie Nair. We are so proud of these talented writers and the way they represented MMS.
We also want to recognize several outstanding performances at the State Middle School Track Meet:
- Feyi Ogunfayo – 3rd place in the 200 meters
- Kylee Bello – 4th place in the 200 meter hurdles
- Boys 4x100 meter relay – 6th place
- Feyi Ogunfayo, Kabo Nkhumane, William Montero, and Heath Rankin
- Girls 4x100 meter relay – 8th place
- Sophia Barcenas, Audrey Cleary, Brielle Luckie, and Ire Olaoye
These accomplishments are a reminder of the incredible talent, dedication, and heart our students bring each day.
To our 8th graders and families, thank you for the impact you have had on Mason Middle School. We cannot wait to see what comes next for you at Mason High School and beyond. Once a Comet, always a Comet.
Have a wonderful, safe, and restful summer. Thank you again for being part of such a special school community.
Every Kid! Every Day!
Go Comets!
Fall Sports Information
Rising 7th & 8th Grade Students - MMS Fall Sports Details NOW Available!
- For all rising 7th & 8th graders, Fall Sports 2026 details are now available on our MMS Athletics website - https://linktr.ee/MMSathletics
- Please be sure to check and bookmark this so you have all the optional summer and mandatory August dates in mind.
- Reach out to the appropriate people listed on the Fall Sports Document with questions.
Go Comets!
Things to Know
Moving or changing schools next year?
If your child will not be returning to Mason City Schools next school year, please let us know by completing the required withdrawal forms before May 29th.
- K-8 Student: Complete the K-8 Grade Student Withdrawal Form
- Return the completed withdrawal form to your child's school. You may email the form to: pateld@masonohioschools.com
- MCS property, including Chromebooks and Chromebook accessories, should be returned at your child's school.
You will receive email confirmation once all documents are verified
All Your MCS Resources in One Place
Mason City Schools is excited to introduce the new PowerSchool Mobile app for the 2026-2027 year. This new application replaces Mason Connects and HAC, and will provide families with a convenient, one-stop location to access important student information in a simpler and more connected way. By aligning key data systems into one platform, we hope to create an easier and more streamlined experience for staff and families. More information and rollout details will be shared in July.
Families are encouraged to opt in to receive text messages from Mason City Schools, as well as PowerSchool Mobile app push notifications. These notifications may include critical safety information, school delays or closures, transportation updates, upcoming events, attendance information, and other important district and school communications. Due to FCC regulations, you must proactively subscribe before the district can send text notifications to your mobile device.
To opt in to PowerSchool/SchoolMessenger text messages, simply text “YES” to 67587.
End of Year Report Cards and Test Scores
Families will be able to access end of year documentation within MasonConnects no later than June 5th. Over the coming weeks we will be adding report cards, Spring MAP and Ohio State Test Scores. Grades 5-7 Math Placement Letters are available in MasonConnects now!
Volunteer at Red, Rhythm & Boom
Volunteers of all abilities are needed to help make this event a success! Volunteers ages 14+ are welcome to sign up. Organizations or groups who gather at least ten people to volunteer for a four-hour shift will receive a $200 donation to their organization or group from the City of Mason.
Waivers may be completed and returned via email prior to the event by sending completed forms to (RRB2026@masonoh.org) or they may be filled out on-site upon arrival. Please note that volunteers under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian signature. Volunteers are encouraged to document their service hours as part of the 250 minutes of community service being offered by the City as part of the America250 celebration in 2026!
PTO Updates:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masonmiddlepto
MMS PTO Newsletter: Thank You for a Wonderful Year!
As we wrap up the 2025-2026 school year, we want to say a heartfelt THANK YOU to our incredible MMS families. Your generosity and support made everything possible this year!
From the Grant Program to Staff Appreciation Week, school dances, basketball games, volleyball games and exciting new community partnerships with Dorothy Lane Market, Cincy Sammys, Got Sneakers, and Clothes Bin, it has been a fantastic year and we could not have done it without you.
Looking to support MMS PTO over the summer? You can donate through our Comet Chip In fundraiser, shop at Dorothy Lane Market, or drop off gently used sneakers and clothing at the bins at Mason Middle School. Every little bit helps!
Be sure to follow us on social media to stay connected! Wishing you a wonderful summer!
Warmly,
2025-2026 MMS PTO Executive Board!
Carrie Upchurch- President
Tracy Athan- Vice President
Lia Zhou- Treasurer
Preeti Sullivan- Assistant Treasurer
Colleen Sadak- Co-Fundraising Coordinator
Marisa Scagnelli- Co-Fundraising Coordinator
Zahirah Goines- Concessions Coordinator
Tricia Fetters- Co-Community Coordinator
Wendy Spatz-Co-Community Coordinator
Victoria Anderson- Publicity Secretary
Emily Conner-Recording Secretary
Carrie Upchurch- President
Tracy Athan- Vice President
Lia Zhou- Treasurer
Preeti Sullivan- Assistant Treasurer
Colleen Sadak- Co-Fundraising Coordinator
Marisa Scagnelli- Co-Fundraising Coordinator
Zahirah Goines- Concessions Coordinator
Tricia Fetters- Co-Community Coordinator
Wendy Spatz-Co-Community Coordinator
Victoria Anderson- Publicity Secretary
Emily Conner-Recording Secretary
Prevention and Wellness Update
As students take a break from their usual routines, it’s important to prioritize their mental well-being. Time away from school can be a chance to recharge, but it can also disrupt structure and support systems that students rely on. Here are some ways to support your child’s mental health during breaks:
1. Maintain a Routine
While it’s tempting to let routines slide, keeping some structure in daily activities helps students feel secure. Set consistent wake-up and bedtime routines, and encourage regular meals and activities.
2. Encourage Open Communication
Create space for your child to share their feelings. Ask open-ended questions like, “What has been on your mind lately?” or “How are you feeling about being on break?” Listening without judgment fosters trust and helps them feel supported.
3. Stay Social
Isolation can negatively impact mental health. Encourage safe social interactions, whether through playdates, family outings, or virtual meet-ups with friends.
4. Monitor Screen Time
It’s easy to fall into excessive screen time when school is out. Set limits on devices and encourage offline activities that spark creativity and movement.
5. Be Mindful of Transitions
As break time winds down, help your child gradually prepare to return to school. Talk about what they’re looking forward to and any concerns they might have. Reestablishing school routines a few days before classes resume can make the transition smoother.
Should you need additional support for your student, please access one of the resources below.
Please call 911 for any emergency situations.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Text or call: 988
Mason City Schools SafeSchools Tip Line
Text or call: (513) 972-4910
Email: 1059@alert1.us
Web: https://mason-oh.safeschoolsalert.com/ (use code: 1059)
Psychiatric Intake Response Center (PIRC)
(513) 636-4124
The Psychiatric Intake Response Center (PIRC), located within Cincinnati Children’s, is the admission and evaluation center for all psychiatric services, including the Bridge Clinic.
Urgent Care, Best Point Behavioral Health by The Children’s Home
(513) 527-3040
For children, teens and young adults up to age 21, the urgent care helps those who need immediate social or emotional care not rising to the level of going to the hospital.
Monday-Friday 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Mobile Response Stabilization Services (Butler, Clinton, Preble and Warren County)
(513) 785-2160
Families with youth and young adults up to age 22 who are experiencing difficulties or distress can receive assistance within 60 minutes after contacting MRSS. You may also receive up to 45 days of intensive, in-home services and linkage to on-going support. Services provided by the MRSS team may include: safety assessments, de-escalation, peer support, and skill-building, among others.
If you would like more information about mental health and wellness or would like to connect your child with a Cincinnati Children’s Hospital therapist, please check out Resources for Mason Families and reach out to your child’s school counselor or Prevention and Wellness Designer.
Upcoming Events
STUDENTS LAST DAY OF SCHOOL
Friday, May 22
Friday, May 22
MEMORIAL DAY
Monday, May 25 | All Mason City Schools & District Offices closed
On Memorial Day, our Comet CommUNITY pauses in gratitude and solemn reflection, honoring the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.
JUNETEENTH FEST
Thursday, June 18 | 5-8PM | Mason High School Small Commons & Bus Circle
Sponsored by MHS BSU & Community Collective Families
Join us as we celebrate Freedom Day - a moment of unity, reflection and joy in celebration of Juneteenth; a day that honors freedom, resilience, and the continued journey toward equity and liberation. Enjoy live music with a DJ, food trucks & vendors, community connection, family fun and a celebration of freedom!
JUNETEENTH
Friday, June 19 | All Mason City Schools & District Offices closed
On Juneteenth, we commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and reflect on the importance of learning from our history while continuing to build a more inclusive and compassionate future together.
RED, RHYTHM & BOOM
Friday, July 3 | 4-10:30PM | Mason Municipal Campus
Sponsored by the City of Mason
Kids Zone opens at 4 p.m. with access to activities such as a 9-hole putt-putt course, slides and bounce houses, carnival games, a trackless train, and more! Grab dinner, drink or snack at the wide variety of food truck options. The American Legion Post 194 will sell adult beverages throughout the evening with proceeds benefitting veterans and the Mason Park & Recreation Foundation. Stage entertainment will kick off at 6 p.m. and will continue throughout the evening until 10 p.m. The event will conclude with a fireworks display and drone show presented by Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks at 10 p.m. The City of Mason encourages the community to come together and join us for this opportunity to celebrate Independence Day, recognize America’s 250th birthday, and showcase the quality of life offered in Mason!
INDEPENDENCE DAY
Saturday, July 4 | All Mason City Schools & District Offices closed on Friday, July 3
As our nation celebrates Independence Day, this year’s observance carries special meaning as America begins commemorating 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Our Comet CommUNITY honors the enduring principles of liberty and justice expressed in our nation’s founding documents, while reflecting with gratitude on the generations who have worked to preserve the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy today, and the responsibilities that “We the People” share as Americans.
MASON CITY SCHOOLS GUEST TEACHER ACADEMY
Friday, July 17 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Mason High School DREAM Center | Register Now
Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community while maintaining a flexible schedule? Do you have a passion for supporting student success? Mason City Schools is looking for dedicated individuals to join our team as Guest Teachers (substitute teachers). We are hosting an exclusive Guest Teacher Academy to help you get started on this rewarding journey. This session is specifically designed for individuals who are not currently serving as substitute teachers within our district. During this time, we will assist you in obtaining your permit, background check, frontline ID, email address, and completing your onboarding paperwork.
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