The Pride of Palo Alto

Happy Sunday Patriot Families,

This school year has gone by really quickly so far and we are we are down to just two weeks left in this marking period! Next week, all students will take benchmark assessments in Math, Science, Social Studies and English Language Arts. These tests give teachers important information about how students are progressing in their core classes and help guide future instruction. Please encourage your Patriot to put forth their best effort each day and to show what they know on next week’s assessments.

As we move into October, our monthly theme will focus on accountability. This means holding ourselves responsible for both our academic effort and our behavior. Please continue to remind your student about the importance of meeting expectations in the classroom and in all common areas so that every Patriot can learn in a positive and respectful environment. Families can support this by talking with their students about setting goals, following through on commitments, and taking pride in making responsible choices each day.

Together, we’re helping our Patriots Lock In & Level Up every day!

With Patriot Pride,
Christina Harris

Thank you to everyone who has participated in the KISD District Optimization process so far. The first set of draft scenarios was shared with the Board this week, and now it’s time for the community to weigh in. Families are invited to be part of this important conversation through Town Hall meetings and an online survey. Learn more at www.killeenisd.org/optimization.

Students watched the video linked below earlier this year in order to ensure they know what the

expectations are. We believe that knowledge is power--knowing and understanding the rules helps them to be more successful.

A few points to be aware of:

• One (1) fight SHALL result in a due process hearing with a recommendation for DAEP placement. Students placed at DAEP for fighting shall be assigned for a minimum of 45 days and may be placed up to 90 days.
• Off campus fights may be considered a disruption to the campus learning environment and students who participate may be subject to a due process hearing with a recommendation for DAEP placement for a minimum of 45 days and up to 90 days.
• A student must be placed in a DAEP if the student: Commits an assault under Penal Code 22.01(a)(1)(3). Assault is defined in part by Penal Code 22.01 as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another; intentionally or knowingly threatening another with imminent bodily injury; or intentionally or knowingly causing physical contact with another that can reasonably be regarded as offensive or provocative.
• On the 3rd cell phone offense, the student will be assigned three days of In School Suspension (ISS) and will have a District-Level Hearing (DLH) with recommendation to the District Alternative Education Program (DAEP).

We want to keep our Patriots learning and growing here at Palo Alto, so please take time to talk with your students about the impact and consequences of their choices. Our discipline process is not just about consequences—it’s about teaching responsibility, accountability, and respect for others. When students understand expectations and take ownership of their actions, they are better able to stay focused on learning and enjoy a safe, positive school environment.

We are always looking for caring and dedicated volunteers to support our students and staff here at Palo Alto Middle School. Whether it’s helping at events, mentoring students, or assisting with special projects, your involvement makes a big difference!

To volunteer, all individuals must first complete the KISD Volunteer Application (https://www.killeenisd.org/o/kisd/page/volunteer). Once cleared, volunteers will then attend a volunteer orientation at Palo Alto before getting started. We would love to partner with you in building a strong Patriot community!

Hispanic Heritage Month!

Monday, September 29th –

Lady Patriot Volleyball vs. CPMS (games start at 5:30PM)

• 8th grade @ PAMS
• 7th grade @ CPMS

Spirit wear: Superhero Day—dress up as your favorite superhero or villian

Tuesday, September 30th –

Patriot Football vs. UGMS (games start at 5:30PM) (Girls Athletics Concessions)

• 8th grade @ UGMS
• 7th grade @ PAMS

Spirit wear: Decade Day—dress in the style of a decade of your choice

Bullying Prevention Month begins

Principal Month begins

Wednesday, October 1st –

Cross Country Meet @ Longbranch Park (starts at 5:30PM)

Spirit wear: Wacky & Weird Hair day—wear crazy colors, wild styles, or even crazy hats

Thursday, October 2nd –

School Custodian Appreciation Day!

Spirit wear: Throwback Thursday—dress up like your childhood self (or College Spirit wear)

Friday, October 3rd –

Field Trip: Leadworthy

Sparkler’s Dance Team performance @ SHS game halftime

Spirit wear: Team Gear Day—wear your favorite team sports gear (or PAMS Spirit shirt)

Saturday, October 4th –

Saturday Detention

Building Routines That Stick:
Now that we’re several weeks into the school year, it’s a great time to revisit routines. Consistent morning and evening habits—like setting out clothes, packing backpacks, and creating a homework time—help students feel secure and reduce stress. Encourage your child to take ownership of one part of the routine to build independence.

Growth Mindset in Action:
When grades or assignments feel tough, remind your child that mistakes are opportunities to learn. Instead of saying “I can’t do this,” encourage them to say “I can’t do this yet.” That small shift helps students build resilience and confidence.

Study Smarter, Not Longer:
Help your child discover their best study rhythm. Some students focus best in short 20–30 minute blocks with breaks, while others prefer tackling one subject at a time. Encourage reviewing notes daily instead of cramming—repetition over time makes learning stick.

Healthy Screen Habits:
Phones, video games, and social media can be fun, but balance is important. Set clear expectations about screen-free times, especially during homework, family meals, and bedtime. Modeling your own balance with technology helps reinforce healthy habits.

Friendship Skills Spotlight:
Encourage your child to practice empathy by asking, “How would I feel in their shoes?” This simple question can help guide kinder choices in friendships and reduce conflicts. If peer challenges arise, remind them to seek help from a trusted adult when needed.

Coping Toolbox:
When stress or big feelings show up, help your child build a “toolbox” of strategies: listening to music, drawing, exercising, journaling, or practicing deep breathing. Having several go-to options helps them feel more in control.

We’re Here to Help:
Middle school can feel overwhelming at times, but your child doesn’t have to navigate it alone—and neither do you. Please reach out if you’d like to talk about academic support, peer relationships, or emotional well-being. We are always here to partner with you.

We are excited to continue our after-school athletic events this week! Please remember that KISD’s clear bag policy will be in effect for all games, and tickets must be purchased online in advance. There will be no cash taken at the door/gate and there will not be devices for anyone to use to purchase at the gate. Please let grandparents, aunts, uncles and all other family members know this is the new process.

When attending, we ask that all families model the Patriot Way by being positive and supportive of our student-athletes. Our role as fans is to encourage our team, not put down the other team or use inappropriate language or behavior. Texas has recently passed a law that requires us to remove spectators immediately if a game official requires it--there will be no warnings. Please help us to make our events a positive experience for all!

Together, we can create a spirited and respectful environment that makes every game a great experience for students, families, and our community.

Bus Route information was made available to parents/guardians via Home Access Center for those who are eligible and requested transportation.

Expect transportation delays the few days of the school year. However, Killeen ISD provides

the Edulog Parent Portal Lite smartphone app to help you receive information about your student's

bus ride. The app allows you to see real-time information about the location of your student's bus

and will alert you when the bus is getting close to the bus stop.

Drop-Off & Pick-Up Map for Cars and Buses

Please notice the drop off and pick up areas for cars at PAMS. For the safety of our students,

please do not drop off in the bus loop.

Parents/Guardians should only be driving in the yellow area indicated on the map.

The red area is for buses only. Parents who enter the red area are putting students and staff at

risk as there is limited visibility when buses are present.

Patriot families should be able to access your student's schedule in Home Access Center (HAC) this week. HAC is a valuable resource and is one way that teachers communicate your student's progress throughout the year (see attachment below for information about HAC). If you need assistance with it, please reach out to our parent liaison, Brittanee Warren (Brittanee.warren@killeenisd.org).