Pioneer Press

Dear Pioneer Families,

Let's Power Up Our Pirate Pride!!

We need your help to raise $12,000 to continue supporting the incredible activities that make Pioneer Middle School a place where students grow, connect, and thrive — including sports, clubs, school socials, and other wonderful student experiences.

This averages out to just $20 per student. A small contribution can go a long way in ensuring every student has access to a vibrant and memorable middle school experience.

Let’s come together as a community to keep the spirit of Pioneer strong — because when we all pitch in, great things happen.

With appreciation,
JoAnne Fernandes-Principal

🎉 Weekend Incentive Alert! 🎉

As an added bonus, any student who raises $5.00 or more over the weekend will receive a FREE Otter Pop on Monday!

✅ Donations must:

• Be NEW donations made this weekend

• Be submitted via TouchBase or in person at the attendance office

• Be turned in before the 8:10 AM bell on Monday morning

• 
  

❌ Please note: Previous donations do not count toward this incentive.

Thank you for your continued support!

Upcoming Test Dates – Please Plan Accordingly

Smarter Balanced Assessments (Math and ELA):

• May 13, 15, 20, and 22

Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science (WCAS):

• May 21 (8th grade only)

Attendance is Critical
To ensure your child has the opportunity to participate and complete all testing, please avoid scheduling appointments or other activities during these dates. Missing a test can impact their assessment schedule.

How You Can Help Your Student Succeed:

• Make sure they get plenty of rest the night before each test.

• Provide a healthy breakfast each morning.

• Encourage a confident, positive mindset.

What to Bring on Testing Days:
✅ Water bottle
✅ Snack
✅ Headphones (no wireless headphones)
✅ A book to read (for after testing)

Questions?
Call us at 253-583-7200

The last day for school cubs is June 5th

**Pokemon Club's last day is May 29th**

Clubs Offered:

• Builders Club: A student-led service organization focused on community involvement and leadership development.

• Christian Faith Club (CFC): A space for students to explore and discuss their faith in a supportive environment.

• Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) Club: Promotes a safe and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

• Homework Help Club: Provides academic assistance to students seeking extra support with their studies.

• Junior Student to Student (JS2S) Club: Assists new students in transitioning to Pioneer Middle School, fostering a welcoming community.

• Math Club: Encourages interest in mathematics through engaging activities and competitions.

• Pioneer's Game Club: Offers a venue for students to play and discuss various games, promoting strategic thinking and camaraderie.

• Pokemon Go! Club: Combines physical activity with gaming, encouraging exploration and teamwork.

For more information on these clubs and how to join, please visit the Clubs & Organizations section of the Pioneer Middle School website.

If you have further questions or need assistance, feel free to contact the school office at (253) 583-7200 or email pioneermsoffice@steilacoom.k12.wa.us.

May 13, 15, 20 and 22 - Smarter Balanced Assessments (ELA and Math)

Wednesday, May 21st - WCAS - 8th grade ONLY

Thursday, May 22nd - Day of Champions - Student Services

Friday, May 23rd - Snow Makeup Day - NO SCHOOL

Monday, May 26th - Memorial Day - NO SCHOOL

Tuesday, May 27th - 1st half of 5th grade students visit Pioneer MS from Saltar's Point Elementary - 9:30 am - 10:30 am

Thursday, May 29th 2nd half of 5th grade students visit Pioneer MS from Saltar's Point Elementary - 9:30 am - 10:30 am

Tuesday, June 10th - 8th Grade Promotion - PIO GYM

Check our district calendar for more information:

https://www.steilacoom.k12.wa.us/welcome-center/calendars?cal_date=2025-04-01

Classes begin at 8:10 a.m.

If your student arrives at 8:10 a.m. or later, they must check in at the kiosk to receive a pass to class. 🔹 Tardies require a parent/guardian excuse.

Reporting Absences & Tardies

Don’t forget to excuse your student’s absences and tardies!

✅ Option 1: Call 253-583-7200 and select the attendance option.

• If no one answers, please leave a voicemail—messages are checked frequently.
• No need to call multiple times.

✅ Option 2: Email pioneermsoffice@steilacoom.k12.wa.us or send a ParentSquare message to the Pioneer Office.

🚫 Do not email staff directly regarding attendance.

Transportation Changes

If you need to update transportation plans:

✅ Option 1: Call the office by 2:00 p.m. (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday) or by 1:00 p.m. on ACE days (Wednesdays).

✅ Option 2: Email pioneermsoffice@steilacoom.k12.wa.us to request transportation changes.

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our attendance and transportation processes running smoothly!