September 4, 2026

The Purgolder Press is East's weekly e-newsletter emailed to all students, families, and staff. In an effort to reduce the number of emails from the school regarding individual topics, the weekly newsletter generally contains information about what has been happening this week, and what is upcoming next week. All issues are archived on East's website.

EAST HAPPENINGS

East Clubs, Activities, and Sports Opportunities

On Friday, September 4th, we held our annual Activities Fair where more than 70 clubs/sports/organizations shared information with students about how they can get involved at East.

Schoolwide Expectations

This week during advisory homeroom, students received information about:

PSAT Registration Open

Registration is open NOW for the PSAT.

Register by September 18th, no late registration.


Register at: https://aptsusa.com/mmsd/psat/


Students should take the PSAT to:

  • Get an accurate preview of your likely SAT score
  • Identify where to focus your preparation
  • Gain valuable test-day experience
  • Give juniors a chance to qualify for National Merit recognition and scholarships


THe PSAT will take place on Wednesday, October 7th at 9:00am at the Alliant Energy Center. This test is open to MMSD students in grades 10–11, with priority given to 11th graders. Buses will be provided to and from East High School. The cost of the exam is $45.

Purgolder Shoutouts

Check out the latest shoutouts, highlighting our our students and staff who embody What It Means To Be A Purgolder.

COMING UP

Back-To-School Night Open House

All East students and families are invited to join us for our annual Community Dinner and Back-To-School Night Open House on Wednesday, September 9th from 5:00-7:00pm. The tradition of our annual FREE Community Dinner will start in the Cafeteria at 5:00pm. Hotdogs and drinks will be provided by the school, and staff will bring dishes to pass.


Families will join their students as they go through their students' daily schedule. Families will spend 7 minutes in each classroom for meet and greets and learn more about their classes. The easiest way to view student’s schedules is in the Campus Parent or Campus Student app on mobile devices. Note, this event does not include individual student conferences, those will be held in November.


5:00-5:45pm | Community Dinner in the Cafeteria

5:45-7:00pm | Open House, Classroom Visits and School Tours


Food and beverages provided. Children and all family members are welcome!

All-School Boosters Club: Supporting All Purgolders

East's Booster Club is proud to support ALL East High students - not just athletes! From theater productions to Cypher showcases, Pro Start Cooking competitions to Mariachi Club fundraisers, and every sport in between, our mission is to help every club and activity thrive. When you support the Boosters, you’re supporting the entire East student community. 


Want to learn more about what we've got in store for this year? Join us at our Boosters Kickoff Meeting on Monday, September 14th from 6:30–7:30pm in the East High School Community Room (By the cafeteria; enter at Door 3)



Here is what’s on deck for this quick one-hour meeting:

  • The $60K Plan: Learn how we are distributing $60,000 to support East teams, clubs, and student enrichment.
  • Admin Insights: Hear directly from Principal Haste and Athletic Director Rogness on how they are spending their $15,000 Booster grants.
  • Find Your Volunteering Fit: Discover how you can pitch in. Whether you have an hour to volunteer in the concession stand, want to help plan major events, or prefer behind-the-scenes digital tasks from home, there's a role for every schedule - and you'll score a free sticker just for signing up!
  • Gear & Perks: Grab some East High merch to show your school pride. We'll be selling East hoodies, tees, hats and stickers.
  • Community & Snacks: Meet fellow parents and caregivers while enjoying free popcorn and sweet treats.


Want to learn more? Visit our Booster Club Website and read our Year in Review to see what we accomplished last school year.



Can’t make it but want to stay in the loop? Join our mailing list, and mark your calendar for upcoming meetings and events. We look forward to seeing you!


Ready to Get Involved?

We're looking for some folks to help sell East merch at the Back to School Open House on Wednesday, Sept 9, and also to pitch in at concessions during fall home games. We've got tons of shifts up on our website - grab one today, and stay tuned for more opportunities throughout the year.

And a huge thank you to everyone who volunteered at Orton and Eken Park Fests - we appreciate your help repping Purgolder Pride in our East Side community!


Chipotle Dining Out Event: Wednesday, September 9th from 5-9pm

Our Dining Out Series kicks off on Wednesday, September 9 at Chipotle (4628 East Washington) from 5-9 p.m.


Show the East High Boosters flyer at the register, and Chipotle will donate 25% of sales to support student clubs, athletics and activities.


Ordering online for pickup? Use code HKNDHEN pickup on the Chipotle app or website to make sure your order counts.


More burritos = more impact. So share the flyer and the Facebook event with friends, family, neighbors, fellow Purgolders, and anyone else who wants to support The Castle.


A quick scheduling note: East is also hosting its Back to School Open House dinner from 5-7pm that evening. We encourage you to join the community at East, and then swing by Chipotle afterward. Two great ways to support East in one evening!

QUICK LINKS & HELPFUL RESOURCES
 
MADISON EAST HIGH SCHOOL
 
Facebook  Twitter  Instagram