October is National Principals Month, and we are so proud to recognize the outstanding leaders in our district!

At North Elementary, Principal Andy Mendini leads with heart, energy, and a commitment to helping every child discover their love of learning. His encouragement and positivity make North a place where students feel excited to walk through the doors each day.

At our Downtown Campus, Principal Sara Pericolosi and Assistant Principal Tom Thomann work together to guide students and staff with care, dedication, and a true passion for education. Their teamwork and leadership ensure that the Downtown Campus continues to thrive as a place where students are challenged, supported, and celebrated for who they are.

We also celebrate Samantha Roberts, Director of our Homeschool Partnership, who provides families with resources, support, and opportunities to help every student thrive. Her leadership helps us extend learning beyond the traditional classroom and strengthens our community through choice and connection.

Being a school leader is no small task. It means making tough decisions, wearing many hats, and most importantly, putting students first every single day. We are grateful for the way Mr. Mendini, Mrs. Pericolosi, Mr. Thomann, and Mrs. Roberts model resilience, kindness, and a deep commitment to student success.

Please join us in celebrating our principals and directors and letting them know just how much they mean to our Mountaineer family!

Dear Families,

We’re excited to share that the cafeteria for grades 5–12 is now offering new à la carte options through the Mountaineer Market, located in the cafeteria during lunch time! These items give students the opportunity to purchase additional snacks and meal items beyond the daily school lunch.

Please note:

• À la carte items are available at an additional cost.
• Funds can be easily added to your student’s Meal Magic account through the Family Portal.
• Students will still have access to their regular school meals each day.

We encourage you to talk with your child about these new offerings and ensure their Meal Magic account is funded if they wish to take advantage of the additional options.

Thank you for your continued support as we work to provide healthy, exciting choices for our Mountaineers!

Students at North Elementary had an exciting and educational experience Thursday as they learned how to make fresh apple cider with the help of Rebecca Krans from the Michigan State University Extension!

Rebecca walked students through the entire process, from preparing the apples to pressing them, and explained how apple cider has been made for generations. Students not only learned about cider-making, but also rolled up their sleeves and took part in the process themselves.

The highlight of the day came when students got to sample the cider they had worked together to create, a sweet reward for their effort and teamwork! Experiences like these provide hands-on learning that connects students to agriculture, local resources, and traditions that are still alive today.

A huge thank you to Rebecca for bringing this engaging opportunity to our school and for helping our students make memories (and cider!) they won’t forget.

More photos here.

Tuesday, North Elementary School library received a very special donation. Gabe’s family generously gifted a new set of fish and wildlife books in honor of a Mountaineer we lost far too soon, Gabe Richtig.

What a beautiful tribute to Gabe’s life and love for the outdoors. The staff and students of Iron Mountain are deeply grateful to the Richtig family for this meaningful gift. Gabe’s memory will continue to live on in our halls, in our hearts, and now in the hands of every child who opens these books.

We will always remember Gabe. Thank you, Richtig Family.

Please read the following letter from Superintendent Jerry Sardina:

http://imps.news/iy6a

Dear Mountaineer Parent/Guardian,

Our records show you have at least one form not completed in FinalForms. Please complete all student information forms immediately. The process only takes 5-10 minutes to complete.

If forms are not submitted by September 30, 2025, your PowerSchool access will be suspended.

Also, without this signed paperwork, your student may NOT attend any field trips.

All Iron Mountain families (including Homeschool Partnership/Virtual) are required to confirm student information in FinalForms: https://ironmountain-mi.finalforms.com

• Select the “Parent” option when filling out paper forms.
• Use “N/A” in any blank fields to proceed.
• Students in grades 7–12 will then receive registration paperwork via school email to complete on their Chromebooks.

For assistance, contact your student’s school office.

Thank you for addressing this matter without delay.

Iron Mountain High School is proud to celebrate our 2025 Homecoming Court. Despite the unfortunate cancellation of tonight’s Homecoming football game, our Mountaineer pride was still on full display as students, families, and community members gathered to honor this cherished tradition.

We are thrilled to congratulate this year’s Homecoming King, DiAngelo Saldana, and Homecoming Queen, Lucy Baumgartner! Their crowning moment was made even more special as they were crowned by the Junior Prom Queen and King, Bella Person and Louis Fiorucci.

The Homecoming Court was presented during this evening’s festivities, reminding us all that Homecoming is about more than just the game- it’s about tradition, school spirit, and celebrating our students. While the football field may have been quiet, the Mountaineer community came together to ensure that the joy and excitement of Homecoming continued strong.

We are also excited to announce that despite the Freshmen winning the Float Contest, the Sophomore class won the Homecoming Snuffy Cup!

Congratulations!

Congratulations once again to DiAngelo, Lucy, the entire Homecoming Court, and to the Sophomore Class.

More photos here

As you may be aware, West Iron County Public Schools recently communicated about a reported threat directed at a staff member within their district. We want to assure you that Iron Mountain Schools has been working closely with West Iron County Schools and multiple law enforcement agencies throughout this ongoing investigation.

Based on the information provided, there is no reason to believe that there is any threat to the Iron Mountain community. Law enforcement has determined there is no immediate concern for the safety of our schools.

Out of an abundance of caution and respect for the safety of all students, families, and community members, tonight’s scheduled football game at Iron Mountain between West Iron County and Iron Mountain has been canceled. We understand this is disappointing for our players, families, and fans, and we sincerely appreciate your understanding and support.

We continue to encourage all students and families to report any concerning behavior to law enforcement or a trusted adult immediately. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns.

Other scheduled Homecoming events will continue as planned, with the introductions of Homecoming Court beginning at a new time of 6:15 PM at Mountaineer Stadium.

Thank you for your support as we work together to ensure a safe and positive learning environment.