Principal’s Desk News & Information Upcoming Dates School Care News

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we begin 2026, I want to sincerely thank you for your ongoing support and collaboration. Every day, we see our students grow and learn here at the Ledge, and I am truly grateful to have you as part of our educational community.

Reflecting on the first half of the school year, I’m filled with stories of the Ledger Way in action—moments of challenge and triumph. There are instances where we may stumble and are given the opportunity to advance in our learning and growth. Times when Christ has supported us on our journey. There are moments that are filled with learning and achievement as we discover new knowledge and apply skills in our lives. I hope these experiences help us realize our community’s potential to influence and impact the world around us as we aim to serve as a instrument for Christ to enter the world.

This week, students from second to eighth grade began their winter MAP tests in language, math, and reading. Please support your child by ensuring they attend school during this crucial time, as it helps us enhance our teaching and learning at SMSA.

As we continue forward, we eagerly anticipate the opportunities that await. Together, we are shaping the future of our children and empowering them to fulfill their dreams. Thank you for your continued support in making SMSA a wonderful place for learning and growth.

God Bless, Steven Kelnhofer
Elementary Principal, SMSA

The Principal’s Pen is an opportunity for teachers to recognize students who consistently demonstrate “The Ledger Way” with a focus on faith, learning, respect for leadership, community and responsibility. The students chosen will attend a special breakfast with Mr. Kelnhofer, Mr. Thuerwachter and a special guest. They will also receive a certificate with a brief sentence on how they followed “The Ledger Way,” and a principal’s pen. This week’s special guest speaker is Heather Reilley, our Director of Pupil Services.

Henry B. (Grade 4) -Henry is a faith filled student, who follows in the footsteps of Jesus in his words and actions. Henry always works hard to do his best. He is also kind to everyone in his class.
Eli R. (Grade 5) -Eli uses the Ledger Way every day. He is an inspiring leader who supports everyone around him. He always meets deadlines, showing strong time management skills. Eli treats everyone with respect and follows the rules, promoting accountability and integrity. His work ethic inspires his peers to do their best.
Tyler S. (Grade 6) -Tyler is a strong, quiet leader who leads by example every single day. He shows genuine respect to everyone in his community and generously shares his wisdom and amazing academic work ethic with his peers. His actions speak louder than words, and our community is stronger because of his leadership. Keep shining, Tyler!
Jack J. (Grade 7) -Jack consistently lives out the Ledger Way core values of learning and leadership. He is an engaged participant in class, regularly helps classmates who need support, and models a positive, respectful attitude. Jack’s quiet leadership and strong work ethic make him a role model for others.
Elise K. (Grade 8) -Elise consistently demonstrates responsibility and a strong work ethic. She turns in her work on time and communicates ahead of time whenever she knows she will be absent. Even when she misses class, she follows up on assignments and completes them promptly without needing reminders. Elise also volunteers when help is needed and approaches class activities with a positive attitude. She is willing to assist classmates during work time and contributes thoughtfully to group tasks. Elise consistently models dependability, kindness, and commitment in our classroom.

Who will win $20,000 this year!?

All Sold BMR tickets must be returned to school with your child, or to the North, South or Scrip offices before the live noon drawing on Friday, January 16, 2026. The drawing will take place no matter the weather!

If you have any questions, or if you would like to purchase additional tickets, please contact a member of the BMR committee, listed below.

Valerie Everson

920.251.3719

Stephanie Fessler

920.960.0556

Katie Mathos

920.979.6757

Lisa Shannon

920.539.2892

Registration for the 2026-2027 academic school year is open for families with students currently enrolled at SMSA until January 9, 2026. Registration will be completed online through your Family Access account in Skyward. Step-by-step instructions can be found on the website by following the link Online Registration Instructions.

Reminder, Skyward online registration can be completed using your cell phone.

All current families must complete Online Registration for each student.

Log into your Family Access account in Skyward.  If you have misplaced your login credentials for Skyward, please email jpoetzel@smsacademy.org.

Online Registration includes information verification regarding your family and student(s). Registration will open for students not currently enrolled in SMSA in January 2026. Early registration will assist in determining class sizes for the 2026-2027 academic year. The registration fee will become part of your 2026-2027 tuition statement.

Current families must complete registration by January 9, 2026.

If you have questions regarding online registration use this link registration@smsacademy.org.

Click these links to access the following:

• Tuition Policies

• Tuition Assistance

• To enroll a NEW student

• Online Registration Instructions

Planning has begun for our annual Ledgerfest fundraising event—mark your calendars for Saturday, March 28, 2026! You won’t want to miss this exciting evening celebrating SMSA.

Once again, we’re asking each grade level to contribute toward creating some incredible auction baskets. Your support makes a huge difference in making Ledgerfest a success!

If you would like to contribute towards your child’s grade level basket, click this link: https://smsacademy.ejoinme.org/LF26class to donate online. Once you enter a donation amount and click next, please fill in your child’s name and grade level (if you are donating for more than one child, please list each name and grade level along with the amount for each child). If you prefer, you may still send cash or check (payable to Andrea Nuss) in an envelope marked: Ledgerfest/Ashley Lane. Please also indicate your child’s grade level on the envelope.

All contributions are due by Wednesday, February 4th. Thank you so much!

If you have any questions, please reach out to your grade-level lead:
P3: Lindsey Pietrowski – pietrowski.lindsey@gmail.com
K4: Allison Geiger – kageiger@att.net
K5: Amy Meyer-Bremer – ameyer17@outlook.com
1st Grade: Betsy Royce – ejmiazga@gmail.com
2nd Grade: Molly Jaster – molly.jaster@gmail.com
3rd Grade: Jourdan Jacobs – jourdanjacobs@gmail.com
4th Grade: Katie Heller – katieheller11@gmail.com
5th Grade: Jenn Ellestad – jenn.ellestad@gmail.com
6th Grade: Andrea Nuss – alnuss@charter.net
7th Grade: Tya Robles – tyajean623@gmail.com
8th Grade: Shannon LaLuzerne – slaluzerne@smsacademy.org
High School (9-12): Andrea Nuss – alnuss@charter.net, Betsey Gitter – kevandbets@gmail.com and Pam Kristmann – pamkristmann@gmail.com

Thank you for your generosity and for helping make Ledgerfest 2026 another amazing celebration of our Ledger community!

Click here to read a Winter Safety & Wellness Newsletter related to Influenza (Flu) information for families.

Mark your calendars — Ledgerfest is happening Saturday, March 28, 2026!

We are bringing all the fun, energy, and team spirit you can handle — it’s sure to be a night full of laughs, cheers, and good times!
Location: FCC (400 University Dr. Fdl)
Time: Doors open at 5:00 pm

Want in on the action? Join the Ledgerfest Committee!
Help dream up ideas, decorate, and make this year’s event the best one yet. Reach out to Ashley Lane if you’d like to join the team — it’s a total blast and a great way to get involved!

Get ready… this event is sure to be a slam dunk!
It’s going to be a night you won’t want to miss!

Starting February 1st. Fondy Youth Baseball registration begins on-line at: www.fdlyouthbaseball.com.

Click the link for grade level league information, and registration details. 2026 Fondy Youth Baseball Registration Form

2026 Registration Form (Spanish)

Are you looking to get more involved at SMSA? If so, join our Parent Connectors Group!! We organize events for our SMSA families & show our appreciation towards our amazing SMSA Staff throughout the year!! Please email Andrea Nuss, alnuss@charter.net if you are interested. Thank you so much!!

Did you know? You can Refer-A-Family and receive tuition credit!

Click Here to Learn More!

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January 16, 2026 – BMR Drawing

January 26 – 30, 2026 – Catholic Schools Week (CSW)

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Please email extendedcare@smsacademy.org if you have any questions.

Thank you

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