Principal Shay Swan
From the Principal
WELCOME TO THE 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR
Homedale Middle School is dedicated to the success of our students. We believe that a good education is the most powerful opportunity you will receive in life. Education can be maximized through a passion to learn, a strong work ethic, and a great attitude. Everything we do is in the best interest of our students - we inspire them to dream toward a better future, and we equip them with the skills necessary to achieve those dreams.
We would like to welcome you and your child to a great school. We hope this year is your greatest school year ever. Homedale Middle School is dedicated to your success!
Go Trojans!
Principal Bio
Welcome to Homedale Middle School! I’m Shay Swan, and it is a privilege to lead a school in the community my family calls home. My journey in education began over 20 years ago in the classroom and on the field, and those experiences as a biology teacher and coach continue to shape my approach as your principal today.
I believe in the power of hard work and a positive team culture. My goal is to foster an environment where academic rigor meets genuine kindness. Having raised my children in the Homedale School District, I know firsthand the importance of the home-school partnership. I look forward to working alongside you to ensure your child has the tools and support they need to thrive.
How is middle school different?
In lots of ways! For one thing, it may be bigger than your old school, and you will have:
- More independence: you may have a chance to choose classes and activities that interest you.
- Different classes: you may go to a different classroom for different subjects. Don't worry; you'll fine your way around in not time.
- Duties: it's your responsibility to learn what the rules are. Read the student handbook with your teacher and classmates the first week of school and ask questions.
- A busier Schedule: moving from one class to another, and lunchtime may be shorter that your old school.
- More classmates: there may be different students in every class you have. Some may be from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Get to know your classmates; make friends. Some teachers have students work in groups; this is a good chance to make new friends.
- More classmates: there may be different students in every class you have. Some may be from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Get to know your classmates; make friends. Some teachers have students work in groups; this is a good chance to make new friends.
- More choices: you can take part in an extra-curricular activity such as band, choir, sports, or the school newspaper.
- More new friends: you may feel lonely if you aren't in the same classes as your old friends. Here are some ideas for making new friends: be friendly, be a good listener, get involved, be yourself, be a good friend, and don't worry if you don't make new friends right away. Building good friendships can take take time.