A Message from Principal Mark Jergens-Zmuda - October 1, 2026

Dear IMS Families,

We are approaching our first checkpoint of the school year as we reach the middle of Trimester 1 on October 8. This is a great time for students and families to check Canvas for any missing assignments, recovery opportunities, or test and quiz make-ups that may help improve grades before report cards.

Our Free After-School Tutoring (FAST) program is now running in the library from 3:00–4:00 pm, Monday through Thursday. Students are welcome to stay after school to work on homework, receive extra academic support, or take advantage of math tutoring provided by Issaquah High School students on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Students may be picked up afterward, ride the activity bus, or walk home.

In addition, every Wednesday during Homeroom, students have an opportunity to receive extra help from their teachers. This is the perfect time to make up tests or quizzes, work on missing assignments, or get additional support during the school day.

Yesterday, we delivered more than 500 Bundt cakes to students and families who participated in our ASB fundraiser. Thank you to everyone who purchased these delicious treats. It was an easy and successful fundraiser that will allow ASB to invest money back into activities and opportunities for our students.

We have also been celebrating Spirit Week! Thank you to all of the students who have shown their Panther pride by dressing up throughout the week. We have seen some creative costumes inspired by favorite patterns, matching, and memes, "6-7," and Mean Girls. Tomorrow is Dress to Impress Day, and we look forward to seeing our Panthers show off their school spirit.

As always, we appreciate your partnership in reinforcing our school expectations at home. Recently, we have seen an increase in a few behaviors that are creating challenges during the school day. Please remind students:

• No running in the building.
• No squirting others with water bottles.
• No laser pointers at school.
• No selling items at school. (Only ASB and our bookkeeper are authorized to conduct sales.)

We have also seen a little bit of that classic middle school attitude. We continue to encourage all students to follow the IMS Way: Be Safe, Be Respectful and Kind, and Be Responsible.

We also want to take a moment to celebrate our diverse community. During Spanish American Heritage Month, students are participating in Homeroom activities that honor and celebrate Hispanic culture, history, and contributions.

Our October Word of the Month is Originality. Students who demonstrate creativity, innovation, and unique thinking may be recognized as a Most Valuable Panther (MVP) and earn an ice cream treat sponsored by our PTSA.

This weekend is Salmon Days! We encourage families to stop by and support our PTSA by parking in the IMS parking lots for $20. Funds raised directly support our students and school programs. After parking, enjoy the food, entertainment, and, of course, the salmon!

A few additional reminders:

• School picture retakes: Friday, October 9
• Girls Basketball and Wrestling (Boys & Girls): Season 2 begins November 2
• Students interested in participating should make sure their physical is current and that they are registered in FinalForms.

We are only one month away from the start of our next athletic season, and we look forward to seeing many Panthers get involved.

Thank you for your continued support of Issaquah Middle School.

Be kind and take care of one another.

Mark Jergens-Zmuda

Issaquah Middle School Principal