Dear Pioneer Families,
As we enter October, I’d like to share some important updates to help your student stay on track and ensure our school continues to be a safe and supportive place for learning.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Conferences are an important opportunity to connect with your child’s teachers and discuss progress so far this year. Please note the schedule below:
Monday, Oct. 20 – Teacher preparation (11:40–3:10 PM)
Tuesday & Wednesday, Oct. 21–22 – Scheduled conferences (12:10–3:10 PM) for students with academic or behavior concerns, or any grade of C– or below. Teachers may also schedule meetings at parent request.
Thursday, Oct. 23 – Arena-Style Conferences held in the gym from 12:45–3:00 PM and 4:00–7:00 PM. Parents/guardians may meet with teachers on a first-come, first-served basis—no appointment needed.
Tip: Please log in to Skyward before conferences to review your child’s current grades and progress.
Creating a Safe and Respectful School
Recently, we’ve seen more rough play—like jumping on others’ backs, chasing, or playing “keep away” with belongings. While we know middle schoolers are active and playful, these behaviors can quickly lead to accidents or conflicts.
Please help by reinforcing these expectations at home:
Keep hands, feet, and belongings to yourself.
Avoid games involving physical contact or grabbing.
Use kind and appropriate language at all times.
Together, we can keep Pioneer a safe and welcoming place for everyone.
Attendance Matters
Regular attendance is one of the strongest indicators of academic success. Strive for 95% or higher—that’s no more than one absence per month. Being at school on time every day helps students stay engaged and confident in their learning.
Cell Phones “Off and Away”
To support focus and participation, all student cell phones must remain off and stored (in lockers or backpacks, not pockets) from 8:03 AM to 2:40 PM. This helps minimize distractions and keeps learning at the center of the day.
Thank you for your ongoing partnership in helping every student at Pioneer Middle School thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally.
In Partnership,
JoAnne Fernandes
Principal, Pioneer Middle School
