Pioneer Press

Pioneer families,

Please read the following reminder regarding SBA & WCAS Testing.

As we approach the spring semester, we would like to inform you about the upcoming Smarter Balanced Assessments for Math and English Language Arts (ELA), as well as the Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science for our middle school students. These assessments are an important part of tracking your child’s academic progress and ensuring we continue to meet their educational needs.

Test Dates:

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

• Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science: May 21 (8th grade only)

Attendance is Critical: Please plan ahead to ensure your child is present for testing. Absences during these dates can impact your child’s ability to participate and complete the tests. We ask that you avoid scheduling appointments or other activities that could interfere with testing.

Testing is Required: Participation in state testing is mandatory for all students.

Have a wonderful weekend!

JoAnne Fernandes - Principal

Realigning the sports seasons will align our seasons with neighboring leagues. This supports the student athletes to participate in more sports and activities, relieves facility scheduling dilemmas, supports field restoration efforts and increases the number of highly qualified coaches.

Season 1 - Fall (September - October)

All sports require a $15 ASB Fee (valid for the entire school year)

Boys' Baseball
6th, 7th, and 8th grades
Head Coach Bruce Hayes bhayes@steilacoom.k12.wa.us
REQUIRED $45 user fee (please do not pay user fee until after tryouts)

REQUIRED Sports Physical

Girls' Fastpitch

6th, 7th, and 8th grades
Head Coach Amanda Gidley agidley@steilacoom.k12.wa.us

REQUIRED $45 user fee (please do not pay user fee until after tryouts)

REQUIRED Sports Physical

REQUIRED Sports Physical Co-Ed Track & Field

6th, 7th, and 8th grades

Head Coach Armand Ruffin aruffin@steilacoom.k12.wa.us
REQUIRED $45 user fee

REQUIRED Sports Physical

For more information or questions regarding the changes to the sports seasons, email us at pioneermsoffice@steilacoom.k12.wa.us

1st annual Easter Egg Hunt!

8th grade Ms. Mateus' Science Class assisted our Highly Structured Class in an Easter egg hunt. This was a huge success as students from HSC were partnered with 3 or more science students and worked together to search for easter eggs. It was a huge success observing the kindness and friendship that was displayed.

Coach Sortore - requests that all current Pioneer: Volleyball, Track and Field and Baseball players, "who have sports are told to make a video tryout on their own at home. They have all of the material now so they can start working on it now. They do not have to attend tryouts. They should be making a video." If you have any questions please contact Ms. Sortore at the email provided on the flyer.

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.

Monday, May 5th - Friday, May 9th - Teacher Appreciation Week

Wednesday, May 7th - National School Nurse Day

Friday, May 8th - Incoming 6th Grader & Student Night

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

Check our district calendar for more information:

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