Yucca Mesa Elementary School brought the Roadrunners into the wonderful world of Oz this week with their most recent Roadrunner Theater production.

Twentynine Palms Junior High School was redesignated as a 2024 California Schools to Watch. This prestigious recognition highlights TPJHS's commitment to excellence in education and its innovative approaches to middle school learning.

The designation as a California Schools to Watch signifies that TPJHS has demonstrated outstanding success in providing a challenging and supportive learning environment for its students. To earn this designation, schools must complete an extensive application and host a site visit by middle grades experts. TPJHS originally received this designation in 2020 and was redesignated this year.

"We are thrilled to be recognized as a Schools to Watch by the California League of Schools," said Principal Derek Swem. "This designation reflects our ongoing commitment to providing a high-quality education that prepares our students for success in the 21st century."

TPJHS was selected for this honor based on several criteria, including academic excellence, responsiveness to the needs and interests of young adolescents and a strong commitment to continuous improvement. In the designation the League of Schools specifically highlighted the site's unique STEAM initiatives which integrates STEAM principals into all classes and their robotics program. The league also highlighted the school’s recent growth noting increased academic performance. Swem linked the academic growth to their new homeroom system which allows students a period to work on iReady, a program that helps bridge instructional gaps for students based on their unique needs.

The school's comprehensive approach to education set it apart as a model for middle schools nationwide.

"We are incredibly proud of TPJHS’s students and staff for their hard work and dedication," said Superintendent Dr. Patricio Vargas. "This designation is a testament to their commitment to excellence in education and their passion for making a positive difference in the lives of young people."

As a Schools to Watch, TPJHS will serve as a model and resource for other schools seeking to improve their middle grades programs. There are 16 new Schools to Watch this year. An additional 36 schools reapplied to the program, demonstrated their sustained progress, and have been redesignated as 2024 California Schools to Watch. Altogether, there are 200 California Schools to Watch.

“Congratulations to these exceptional schools for making a great impact on students. I want to thank the staff, administrators, teachers and families at these schools for ensuring all students get the education they need to realize their potential,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. “These schools are outstanding examples of how educational innovation and a dedicated school community can close opportunity gaps and keep students engaged and learning through a critical stage in their K–12 journey.”

As the winter season fades away, making way for the vibrant hues of spring, we wish all parents a rejuvenating and joyful spring break with MUSD students. This well-deserved respite is an opportunity for students to recharge their own batteries and engage in activities that nourish their mind, body and soul.

While your children are on break from school, take advantage of this time to pursue hobbies, spend quality time with loved ones or simply bask in the blossoming beauty of nature. Whether you embark on exciting adventures, cherish moments of togetherness with family and friends or find solace in the tranquility of your surroundings, may this spring break be a time of tranquility and renewal for you.

As your children prepare to return to school, consider engaging them in a "Spring Rejuvenation" activity to help them mindfully transition back into a learning mindset through positive introspection. Ask them what their “highs” and “lows” were. Then delve deeper into what positives can be found in their “lows.” Afterward, you can tie in going back to school to see what students are looking forward to and what they’ll miss about their time off. This introspective exercise encourages children to pause and reflect on the insights and experiences they gained during their time off. Encourage your children to express their thoughts through creative outlets like journaling, poetry or art.

By embracing this reflective practice, your children can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the present moment and develop a mindset of continuous self-discovery. This exercise will not only help them ease back into their academic routine but also set the stage for a productive and enriching remainder of the school year.

On April 08, 2024, a total solar eclipse will pass North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. It will be the last total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044. Since it has been 7 years since the last solar eclipse, this experience has many schools planning activities for students to participate in the upcoming event. However, it is important to note that participating in this type of activity can be a fun learning opportunity, but it also presents potential safety risks!

The following risk alert provides information about the upcoming total solar eclipse and what schools can do to ensure student and employee safety.

What is a Solar Eclipse?

A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. The Inland Empire will experience 60% coverage at its peak. The eclipse starts at 10:06 am; peak coverage is at 11:13 am.

Are Children’s eyes more vulnerable to sun damage?

Yes. Children are likely to have more light and UV radiation get through, making their retinas especially susceptible to sun damage. Therefore, children participating in solar eclipse activities should wear appropriate eye protection the entire time during the activity. Although children’s eyes are more vulnerable to sun damage, all individuals are susceptible to sun damage and should take proper precautions to protect themselves.

Preparing for Solar Eclipse Activities:

• Provide information to students and parents/caregivers about the upcoming activity.
• Provide the appropriate instruction, safety eyewear, and supervision to ensure students participate safely.
• A waiver/release is a helpful document that can be used to educate parents/caregivers and obtain permission for students to participate in the solar eclipse activity.

Eye Protection:

• ONLY USE ISO Approved Solar Eclipse Viewing Glasses (ISO requirements: 12312-2)
• Sunglasses should NOT be used instead of solar viewing glasses; they will NOT protect your eyes from damage.
• Do NOT use eclipse glasses or handheld viewers with cameras, binoculars, or telescopes.
• Those require different types of solar filters.
• Always inspect the solar filters before using the glasses; if they are scratched or damaged in any way, discard them.

Skin Safety

• Even during a partial or annular eclipse, or during the partial phases of a total eclipse, the
• Sun will still be very bright. If you are watching an entire eclipse, you may be in direct sunlight for hours. Remember to wear sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing to prevent skin damage.

What if eclipse glasses with ISO certification cannot be found, or if the school would like to participate in using a safer alternative?

The pinhole projector method can be used to see the eclipse. NASA has developed a video showing ‘How to View the Solar Eclipse with a Pinhole Projector’. The video can be watched on the NASA Goddard YouTube Channel.

For additional assistance or questions, please contact:

California Schools Risk Management (909) 763-4900

The Morongo USD named Ann Powell as our March Employee of the Month!

Library Clerk Ms. Powell was nominated for the District's Employee of the Month recognition for her outstanding work creating a community in the Joshua Tree Elementary School library.

"Ms. Powell embodies the qualities of an exemplary educator: passion, dedication and a genuine commitment to the holistic development of every child," said Principal Brittni Rudolph. "Her impact extends far beyond the library walls, touching the lives of students, staff and families alike."

Thank you Ms. Powell for being an outstanding MUSD employee!

The MUSD Board of Education will be holding it's next regular board meeting on April 16 at Joshua Tree Elementary School.

Click on the link below to download our new app. The app has some useful features for MUSD families including contact information, up-to-date news from the district and more.

Website: www.morongousd.com

Location: 5715 Utah Trail, Twentynine Palms, CA, USA

Phone: 760-367-9191

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialMUSD

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morongousd/

X: @Dr_Vargas_MUSD and https://twitter.com/MorongoUnified

April 5, 2024