Madrona Family Memo

Greetings, Madrona Wildcat Families!

After a fantastic 2025-26 school year, we are so excited to get the next one underway. To our returning 7th and 8th-grade families - we look forward to welcoming you back! And to our incoming 6th graders and new 7th and 8th-grade families - a warm welcome to Madrona! We can’t wait to have your student on campus in just a few short weeks.

We are thrilled to share that Madrona has been named South Bay’s BEST Public Middle School for 2026! Following our FAVORITE spot in 2025 and BEST recognition in 2024, this single-award honor belongs to our entire school family. Thank you for your continued support and for making the Wildcat community extraordinary.

With just 20 days until the first day of school, please take a moment to review the updates and upcoming events below.

📝 Action Required: PowerSchool Registration & Annual Updates

The PowerSchool Parent/Family 2026-27 (Annual) Online Registration window opened today, Saturday, August 1 (check your email for TUSD communication regarding PowerSchool access).

All families (new and returning) must log in to PowerSchool to:

• Verify 2026-27 home address, emails, and phone numbers, health/medical information, and emergency contacts and authorized student release authorizations
• Complete new school year acknowledgement of school & district policies.

• Access and review important school resources, including our:

  • 2026–27 School Handbook

  • School Bell Schedule & Campus Map (updated for 2026-27)

💡 Support Our School: We request that all Madrona families fill out the Torrance Unified School District Annual Educational Benefit Form. Completing this form annually helps secure vital funding for academic counseling, reading recovery, and socio-emotional support programs, and can qualify your family for free resources.

Additional information in preparation for the 2026-27 School Year:

🐾 Wildcat Welcome Orientation

For Incoming 6th Graders & New-to-Madrona Students
Monday, August 17• ⏰ 9:00–11:00 AM

• Guided school tour, fun activities and tips for navigating multiple classes and responsibilities - led by our student leaders/mentors!

• While students are engaging with our student leaders, parent/guardians are invited to join our New-to-Middle School Meeting from 9:15–10:15 AM in the Cafeteria with our Madrona PTSA and school administration. We’ll share opportunities to volunteer, upcoming events and programs to support your student's successful transition to middle school.

Schedule Pick-Up for Current 7th and 8th-Grade Madrona Students

Monday, August 17 • ⏰ 1:00–3:00 PM

• Student pick up of class schedules

• Self-guided tour of campus/class room locations

• Test out new locker assignments!
  
  

🏫 First Days of School - Thursday, August 20

• Campus Opens Early: 8:00 AM (Thursday & Friday, Aug. 20–21), instead of 8:15 AM.

• First Bell: 8:30 AM

• Period 1 Late Bell: 8:40 AM
  

The early 8:00 am campus opening will help ease traffic and give students extra time to find their classes and lockers.

📅 Save-the-Date (for additional events, see the "Important Dates" section below)

• Wednesday, August 19: Class schedules will be viewable mobile app and online via Parent/Student PowerSchool portal (Note: schedule adjustments may occur through the first few weeks due to ongoing enrollment leveling). Core subjects (ELA, Math, Science & Social Studies) classes are guaranteed, while Electives are subject to availability, as only one class is offered per elective and most are shared between grade levels.

• Tuesday, September 15: Back to School Night (5:15 pm/Gym - Madrona PTSA Association Meeting & Principal Welcome, 5:30-6:30 pm Classroom visits). We will still be observing the Late Start Tuesday Bell Schedule (9:20 am/first bell)

• Note: Wednesday, September 16 is a special Late Start Schedule due to the 9/15 Back to School Night

📰 Stay Connected

Keep an eye out for our weekly Madrona Wildcat Family Newsletter, your family source for learning spotlights, after-school clubs, sports tryouts, school volunteer opportunities, and district resources.

Middle school is a unique space where students experience the most academic, social-emotional and physical development, as well as build friendships and discover new talents. We look forward to partnering with you to support your student's journey!

See you soon, Wildcats!

With gratitude,

Sue S. Key, Ed.D., Proud Principal
Madrona Middle School

Dear Madrona Families,

The Madrona PTSA would like to welcome the new and returning students and families to our community! We hope you have all been enjoying your summer. We are looking forward to the 2026-2027 school year as we are planning some exciting events and looking for new ways to enhance the students’ middle school experience.

This year our goal is to increase engagement, communication and fundraising between the PTSA and our Madrona community so we can better serve and support our students and staff. We are planning some new events we are looking forward to hosting for this upcoming school year, including a special giveback assembly for the students in the fall and a talent show in the winter.

As the new school year is fast approaching, please mark your calendars for these upcoming PTSA-sponsored fall events:

• New Student and Parent Orientation (August 17th): We would love to meet you here! Learn more about what the PTSA has to offer.

• Back to School Night and PTSA Association meeting (September 15th): Madrona families and community are invited to our first association meeting of the year, which will take place at the beginning of Back to School Night.

• Welcome Back Aloha Dance (September 18th): Our first school dance of the year for students. Tropical attire is encouraged!

• Trunk or Treat Halloween Festival (October 9th): Madrona’s fundraiser fall festival inviting the Fern and Hickory Elementary and Madrona Middle School communities.

• Midday Mingle (October 23rd): Families and students enjoy having lunch together.

Show your support by becoming a member!

The success of our school relies on the strength of our community. We invite every parent, guardian, staff and community member to become a member of the PTSA. There is no volunteer requirement to join, as your membership is support enough. Your membership gives you a voice in how PTSA funds are spent and keeps you informed about PTSA plans and operations. You can join online by visiting our Madrona Middle School PTSA Totem Join Link.

For those who are interested in volunteering to help us plan our events and programs or volunteering at the events, please stay tuned for more information at the new student orientation or in upcoming Wildcat Newsletter emails.

Support Our Students and Staff: Donate Today

To bring our planned activities and support programs to life, we rely on the generosity of our families and community. We kindly ask you to consider making a suggested donation of $50 to our Direct Donation Drive. You can make your tax-deductible contribution quickly and securely online by visiting our donation page: Madrona PTSA Donation Link.

100% of your contribution goes directly toward programs that benefit Madrona Middle School students. While $50 is our target goal per family, any amount you can give makes a meaningful impact.

Thank you for your time, your dedication, and your continued support of our school community. Together, we can make this an amazing year for our students!

Warm regards,

The Madrona Middle School PTSA Executive Board

Madrona Families! Are you interested in serving as a Madrona PTSA volunteer or school chaperone this year?

• Level 1 clearance - Complete the Torrance Unified School District (TUSD) Volunteer Application to volunteer for school and PTSA events. Applicants must complete a TB screening, a government issued identification verification, and an online Mandated Reporter training (see TUSD link for details).
• Level 2 clearance - Study trip chaperones, including GATE program overnight trip chaperones, will need to contact school administration at madronainfo@tusd.org for details on TUSD Level 2 clearance.
  
  

We couldn’t run our school events without our amazing volunteers! Your time and support make a world of difference for our students. Thank you so much for your help and patience with the TUSD volunteer process. Following our district guidelines ensures our campus stays safe for everyone.

Torrance Unified School District's Portrait of a Graduate (PoG) is a collective vision that articulates the desired outcomes of all TK-12 students in Torrance Unified, including competencies and personal qualities that positions them for success in life and career.

At Madrona Middle School, we take pride in preparing your student for the transition to high school and beyond. Our focus on rigorous, relevant, and engaging academics and enriching activities ensures that your student is well-equipped for their next journey. Each week, our weekly newsletter will spotlight some of the many activities that reflect our students' growth in competencies aligned to the TUSD Portrait of a Graduate.

FREE Summer ☀️ Enrichment!

Looking to keep your student engaged the week before school resumes? Madrona is offering a FREE Summer Enrichment program - Monday, August 10 through Thursday, August 13

• Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• What: A variety of fun and engaging sessions and an opportunity for students to get ready for the new school year and make friends!

• Click here for sign-up and session information!
  

Good News! Ultimate Frisbee is BACK for Summer Enrichment! Sign-up to join in on the fun!

Madrona Back-to-School Recommended Supply List – Includes frequently used middle school materials. During the first few days of school, teachers will let students know if there are any specific materials needed for their classes. Teachers provide learning materials such as handouts, books, scissors, glue sticks, and colored pencils/markers, etc.

Backpacks & Lockers - Please note that student lockers have limited space. We recommend a standard, durable backpack that is not bulky (similar to the size/shape of a Jansport as shown in the photo; however, brand does not matter). Student backpacks must be kept in lockers during the school day. Students will need to plan retrieving items for classes two periods at a time, swapping out materials at snack and lunch as needed.

PE Lockers - Will be assigned by PE teachers the first few weeks of school. PE lockers are 1/2 the size of regular lockers and should only include PE clothes, shoes, and socks. Clothes and socks should be taken home weekly for washing. Show Choir students will not be assigned a PE locker - more details to be provided by their teacher.

Locks - Madrona provides students with three-combination locks. Recommendation: have your student practice using a combination lock in advance of the new school year. Here's a helpful YouTube Video Tutorial. Students typically learn how to manage their lockers within a week, and school staff are circulating campus during passing periods to assist students.

Online store is NOW OPEN for families who would like to purchase a Physical Education (PE) uniform featuring our school logo. This uniform order is optional. Orders are submitted weekly, and fulfilled in 2-week batches during August and September. Items will be delivered to PE classes in labeled bags. Proceeds from uniform sales support PE equipment & supplies.

Note: Students enrolled in a PE class are required to wear a PE uniform for hygiene purposes. Requirements include a red top (t-shirt or sweatshirt) and black bottoms (shorts or sweat pant), socks, and sneakers for PE. Your student may wear any plain red t-shirt and black shorts/sweat pants appropriate for physical fitness/exercise, even attire they already have at home!

Good news! All Madrona students will continue to receive free daily snack and lunch for the 2026-27 School Year.

Families may register for a Torrance Unified School District LinqConnect account and add funds to your student's account (student ID needed) for extra snack or lunch items.

We are looking forward to another great year of Madrona boys' and girls’ intramural athletic team competitions against other Torrance Unified School District middle school teams. Information on team tryouts will be shared via email with students and families at the start of each season: soccer (Fall), volleyball (Fall), basketball (Winter), and flag football (Spring). More information to come!

ISPE allows for advanced study in competitive athletic activities not normally available in the District’s program. ISPE activities must be a significantly different program involving 10 or more hours per week in an activity in which the student is highly gifted and highly competitive at a national, state or regional level. Acceptance is determined by differences between recreational and competitive programs. Applications must be submitted to the school to be approved by the site administrator and the district office. Students will be enrolled in a PE class until the application is approved. Placement in ISPE is not guaranteed. Questions? Email Assistant Principal Alisa Schiappa-Gobee (schiappa-gobee.alisa@tusd.org) Click here for the 26-27 ISPE Interest Form

August

• Monday, 8/10 - Thursday, 8/13 - Madrona Summer Enrichment (sign-up flyer & info above)
• Friday, 8/14 - Madrona Special Education Welcome & Orientation - 9:00-10:30 am (an invitation was emailed directly to our families with students with IEPs)
• Monday, 8/17 -

• 9:00- 11:00 am - Incoming 6th-grade & New Student Welcome Orientation - Student Leadership Getting to Know You Activities, Campus Tour & Schedule Pick-up, Locker Practice, and more!
• 9:15 am - 6th-grade & New-to-Middle School Parent/Guardian Orientation
• 1:00- 3:00 pm - Returning Students - Schedule pick-up, self-guided tour, and locker try out
• Thursday, 8/20 - First Day of School! - Gates will open at 8:00 am the first two day of school
• Friday, 8/21 - Second Day of School!

September

• Monday, 9/7 - No School/Labor Day
• Tuesday, 9/8 - Late Start Tuesday - 9:20 am/first bell rings (9:25 am start)
• Tuesday, 9/15 - Late Start Tuesday & Madrona Back to School Night - (5:15 pm/Admin & PTSA Welcome in the Gym, 5:30-6:30 pm Classroom Visits)
• PTSA Association meeting @ Back to School Night: Madrona families and community are invited to our first association meeting of the year, which will take place at the beginning Back to School Night.
• Wednesday, 9/16 - Late Start (Period 1/starts at 9:20 am) Wednesday due to Back to School Night
• Thursday, 9/17 - Madrona Soccer vs Casimir (Home, Boys 4:15 pm/Girls 5:15 pm)
• Friday, 9/18 - Madrona Picture Day (PE class periods)
• Friday, 9/18 - Welcome Back Aloha Dance, hosted by the Madrona PTSA 5-7 pm, Cafeteria. Tropical attire is encouraged! (more info to be shared soon!)
• Monday, 9/21 - No School/Non-instructional Day
• Tuesday, 9/22 - Late Start Tuesday - 9:20 am/first bell rings (9:25 am start)
• Thursday, 9/23 - Madrona Soccer vs Jefferson, (Away, Girls 4:15 pm/Boys 5:15 pm)

October

• Thursday, 10/1 - Madrona Soccer vs Richardson (Home, Boys 4:15 pm/Girls 5:15 pm)
• Friday, 10/2 - No School/Staff Professional Development

• Thursday, 10/8 - Madrona Soccer vs Magruder (Away, Girls 4:15 pm/Boys 5:15 pm)

• Friday, 10/9 - Trunk or Treat Halloween Festival. Madrona PTSA fundraiser fall festival inviting the Fern and Hickory Elementary and Madrona Middle School communities.

• Thursday, 10/15 (TBD), Madrona Soccer vs Central Area Rival Hull MS (Boys First/Time TBA)

• Friday, 10/16 -No School/Non-instructional Day

• Monday, 10/19 - Friday, 10/23 - Madrona School Spirit Week, hosted by Student Leadership! (TBA)

• Friday, 10/23 - End of Quarter 1

• Midday Mingle Lunch, hosted by Madrona PTSA: A Madrona tradition where families enjoy lunch with their student on campus during school lunch break. 12:35 pm check-in. Sign-up w/PowerSchool primary contact and govt. issued id & verification to be shared closer to the date.

More dates to be added during the school year. See TUSD 2026-27 School Calendar

The following guidelines help ensure a safe and efficient student drop-off & pick-up

• Refrain from making three-point turns on El Dorado & Opal Street during busy drop-off and pick-up times.
  
• Remind your student to make eye contact with drivers before crossing sidewalks or traffic to confirm that it is safe to proceed.
  
• Although El Dorado Street & Opal Street are both two-way streets, follow the traffic flow in the map below so that your student exits from the passenger side of your vehicle and directly onto the school sidewalk, reducing the need to cross the street during high-traffic times (see map below).

Madrona Health Office emailed a reminder to 7th grade parents/guardians regarding their student's required Tdap and 2nd Varicella Immunizations for the 2026-2027 school year. If you received an email, it is important to send the Health Office your student's updated vaccination record ASAP so there are no issues with school entry or schedule delays.

Please Note: If you did not receive an email from the Health Office, your child is up to date on their immunizations and all set for 7th grade. Any questions, please email madronahealthoffice@tusd.org.

PowerSchool & PowerSchool app - Download and use the app to monitor your student's grades and attendance. Enable in-app alerts to receive real-time information on progress. Android | Apple.

To access your student profile, search for TORRANCE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT. The district code is TCXN. Students use their student ID # and password to login on their device or online, while families use district assigned login credentials.

Contact madronainfo@tusd.org if you need assistance accessing your parent/guardian account.

TUSD students are encouraged to use the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System offered through the Sandy Hook Promise to keep our schools secure and our students safe.

This life-saving service empowers you, our students, and our community members to anonymously report any concerns, including potential threats, bullying, or individuals who may be at risk of harming themselves or others. There are three ways to make a report:

• Call the 24/7 crisis hotline counselors at 1-844-5-SayNow (1-844-572-9669)

• Download the mobile app at Google Play or Apple Store

• Submit a tip through their secure website
  
  

All TUSD students access online classrooms and educational resources (including textbooks) through the TUSD CLEVER portal

Have your student log in to CLEVER (https://clever.com/in/torrance) using their TUSD email and password to show you all of their online learning tools.

• Schoology - an online learning management system where teachers post agendas and assignments. Family accounts are sync'd from PowerSchool, and families only if they have made an access account there - Here is our help page for families.
• iReady - a resource teachers use to support learning in essential Reading and Math domains.
• and more!

During the instructional school day, all students have access to Chromebook devices housed in teacher classrooms. Students will need access to a reliable internet connected computer at home/outside of the school day to complete classwork and homework.

Options for students without access to computers at home:

• The Madrona Library - computers are available for student use before school (8:15 am-8:35 am) and during lunch (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Fridays)
• The Madrona After School Homework Club (3:30-4:30 pm) - Monday (Rm 14), Tuesday (Rm 9) -Wednesday (Rm 6)
• Madrona ELOP After School Program (3:30-6:00 pm)
• City of Torrance - Katy Geissert Library (located on the corner of Torrance Blvd/Madrona Avenue) - Monday, Wednesday: 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.. Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
  

• Care Solace — A simple, fast, and confidential tool to help connect your family with mental health and drug support services. Visit caresolace.com/torranceparents to get matched with the right care.
• Hazel Health — Free virtual therapy for children and teens, available from home Monday–Friday, 7am–7pm. Call 800-764-2935 to get started or consent to services at my.hazel.co/tusd
  
  

Sign up for Ralphs/Kroger Community Rewards Community Contribution Program at NO added cost to you. Use Madrona's Organization ID UF902. Click here

Looking for a way to help out our school? We are ALWAYS in need of tissue boxes, reams of paper, and school supplies! Donations are greatly appreciated. Madrona Middle School Wishlist Link

If you purchase items online, please have it delivered to:
Madrona Middle School 21364 Madrona Avenue Torrance, CA 90503 310-533-4562. Thank you! If you have items delivered to your home, please drop off at the front office (or) have your student bring items in.

can be made payable to “Madrona Middle School” and dropped off to Madrona Staff Assistant Cynthia Chavez. We value your generosity and are committed to honoring your intentions. All contributions will be thoughtfully allocated toward meaningful initiatives, such as instructional resources or ongoing improvements to our campus facilities. Thank you for considering a gift that helps support our students and school community.

A school donation receipt can be provided to acknowledge your generous donation, serving as proof of the donation for tax purposes.

Follow Us On Social Media & Online to keep up to date on events and activities at our school, please follow us on Instagram or visit our school website.

School Website: https://www.tusd.org/schools/madrona

Address: 21364 Madrona Avenue, Torrance, CA, USA

General Email: madronainfo@tusd.org

Attendance Office: madronaattend@tusd.org

Main Phone #: (310)533-4562