May 17, 2024 Panther Update

Palm Desert Charter Middle School students and staff have demonstrated remarkable dedication and perseverance in completing this year's required State testing. Their collective effort has ensured that the majority of tests were finished on schedule, showcasing our commitment to academic excellence. A special shout-out goes to our outstanding Test Coordinator, Irene Taylor, whose exceptional organization and support were instrumental in this success. Additionally, we commend Dr. Shefa for starting each testing period day with a moment to center ourselves and focus on our desired outcomes, fostering a calm and productive testing environment. This week is devoted to make-up tests for those who were absent or unable to finish earlier, with the goal of having all tests completed by May 23rd. This coordinated effort underscores our community's commitment to excellence and determination to meet the State's expectation of 95% completion goal.

Parents, thank you for your partnership in your child's education. Together, we can help them succeed on their state assessments and beyond.

Palm Desert Charter Middle School recently celebrated its 8th Grade Award Ceremony, honoring students who exemplify Citizenship, Perseverance, and Academic Excellence, and those students maintaining a 4.0 GPA for three consecutive years. The event recognized exceptional students in various areas such as Athletics, PE, Dance, Colorguard, Cadet Corps, AVID, Foods, Computer Science, Art, Yearbook, and Broadcasting. Student leaders from Renaissance, ASB, and W.E.B. were also celebrated. The night concluded with the prestigious Student of the Year awards presented to Prachi Amin, Caroline Eby, and Tyler Oliphant. A heartfelt thank you to the 8th grade committee—Mrs. Lloyd, Ms. Wagner, Ms. Bohn, and Mrs. O'Dowd—for organizing this memorable event, and to all faculty and parents who attended to celebrate our outstanding students.

All DSUSD students presented their AVID programs. Three of our 7th-grade students participated; Kamila Parra, Tucker Silveira and Mia Venegas. PDCMS is now an emerging AVID demonstration site!

According to a research study of American teens ages 12-15, those who have used social media over three hours each day faced twice the risk of having negative mental health outcomes, including depression and anxiety symptoms.

Parents can help reduce the negative effects of social media by:

• Setting limits: Set timers and screen time limits for apps or devices
• Using parental controls: Limit access to harmful or inappropriate content online
• Discussing what's okay and safe: Talk about what's within your comfort zone
• Modeling positive behavior: Encourage face-to-face activities
• Keeping lines of communication open: Be open with your children if you are following their online accounts or monitoring their online activity

PDCMS has launched POSSIP. This texting tool allows the school to send out 4 quick questions bimonthly to gather feedback from parents. The information gathered on Possip will be shared in the weekly Panther Update.

PDCMS Possip report is ready! PDDCMS received 281 responses last week.

Respondents shared praise for:

• Caring teachers that provide engaging learning experiences
• The after-school Bridges program received positive feedback
• The collaboration between the staff helps students

Respondents shared the following feedback, questions, or needs:

• Concerns about school safety including bullying, fighting, and substance use on campus (11)
• The need for more security staff to increase safety at school (4)
• Feedback on staff professionalism and a need for improving the way they treat students (5)

A kindly reminder that homemade or store-bought slime is not permitted on campus. While we understand the appeal and creativity involved in making and playing with slime, it can often lead to disruptions in classrooms and potential messes in common areas.

• PDCMS Students are required to wear their ID, lanyard, and school uniform daily.

• Please review students’ planners and grades weekly.

• Cell phones must be turned off and remain in backpacks until school is over.

• Always follow the drop-off and pick-up procedures and drive slowly to keep all pedestrians safe.

• Common Sense Media provides important information for parents regarding technology and social media.

• Consider donating to support year-end 8th-grade activities to celebrate their years at PDCMS!
  

Please remember to ask your student if they have any outstanding library fines or replacement ID fees. As we get close to the end of the year, we ask that every student bring their account current. PDCMS provides community service and payment plans as options. Please email Renee McDaniel at renee.mcdaniel@desertsands.us

• May 20-23 - Make-Up Testing
• May 24 - PantherFest **MINIMUM DAY **
• May 27 - Memorial Day **NO SCHOOL**
• May 29 - Career Day Speakers
• June 4 - 8th Grade Knotts Berry Farm Field Trip
• June 5 - Last day of School **MINIMUM DAY**

PantherFest is just around the corner, and to ensure its success, we're reaching out to our community for support. We NEED volunteers and food item donations to make this event truly memorable. PantherFest, scheduled for Friday, May 24th, promises to be a day filled with fun, games, and Panther spirit. But we can't do it alone. Your participation as a volunteer or by donating food items will play a vital role in bringing our PantherFest to life. Whether you can spare an hour of your time or contribute a snack to share, your involvement will make a significant difference. Let's come together and make PantherFest an unforgettable experience for everyone involved! Please email pdcmspto@gmail.com for any questions.

Thank you Coaches and Panthers for a great Middle School Sports Season! We had some wins and some losses but always had fun and great teamwork!

Below is a link to our Coffee with the Counselor's video library. Here you can catch up on our team presenting a variety of important topics for you and your students. All are welcome to join us live in person or virtually on the first Wednesday of every month on campus.

Coffee with the Counselor's Video Library

Coffee with the Counselor's monthly Zoom invite link

Is your planner up to date?

Do I need to sign anything for your classes?

What is your favorite thing about your day?

Are you ready for testing?

Have you returned your school library books?