Desert Shadows Middle School

We strive to empower students to become critical thinkers that are lifelong learners, preparing them for a future where they are contributing members of society.

Desert Shadows Middle School provides a quality, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where students can excel through our diverse educational programs.

We continue inviting students to attend our After-School Tutoring to help students strengthen their skills, complete homework, and build confidence in their learning. Our dedicated teachers are here to provide support and ensuring every student has the tools they need to succeed!

📚 When: Monday, Tuesdays, and Thursdays
⏰ Time: 3:20 – 4:00
📍 Where: SEI (Ms. Pradhan), ELA (Ms. Condes, Ms. Rosas, and Mr. Carlson), Math (Mr. Hewlett, Ms. Martinez, Ms. Durazo, Ms. Lopez, Mr. Kandikatla, Mr. Gastelum)

We provide guidance in SEI, ELA, and Math and ensure students get the support they need to succeed. Additionally, other teachers like Ms. Bader, Ms. Gastelum, and Ms. Barreda stay on certain days of the week to assist. This is a great opportunity for students to receive one-on-one assistance, work in a focused environment, and stay on track academically.

We encourage all students to take advantage of this valuable resource!

A few reminders for Valentine’s Day. Students will be allowed to show their Valentine spirit by wearing any of the following colors; pink, white, and/or red tops only, Bottoms remain as khaki. Please avoid bringing balloons, stuffed animals, flowers, candy and other gifts to school. Additionally, all glass, including flower vases, are not allowed on campus. If they are brought to school, they will be stored in the office until the end of the day. Any deliveries after 10:30 a.m. will not be accepted (No exceptions). Anything arriving after the indicated time will be returned with carrier.

Thank you for your understanding and support on this matter.

Retention

Students who fail a full year of any two core-area classes (Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies) may be retained in their current grade level. Additionally, students who fail three core area classes at the end of the second semester may be retained. Every quarter, teachers provide our counselors with information to contact parents of identified students regarding academic deficiencies and intervention strategies. Mailings provide information to parents on ways to help their child with homework and time management. Meetings will be scheduled with parents and students after each quarter for students receiving two or more F’s in core classes.

Transition from 8th Grade

Students will transition to ninth grade upon the satisfactory completion of required core subjects

• Language Arts (Reading/Writing), Math, Science, and Social Studies, as determined by grades and district assessments. (ARS §15-701).

Students that are referred to administration for any violation of school policy will be dealt with according to NUSD Behavior Management Guidelines. Consequences may result in retention and/or loss of privileges to attend end of year activities including but not limited to the DSMS transition ceremony and dance. Any 8th grade student suspended during the 2024-2025 school year and students in general who exceed absences more than 10% (18 days) of the school year can be retained and may not be eligible to participate in the transition ceremony, regardless of their academic performance.

Dear DSMS Parents and Guardians,

I hope this message finds you well and that your family is enjoying a great start to the month! As we continue our journey through the school year, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for your partnership in your child’s education. Your support and engagement make a tremendous difference in the success of our students and school community.

This month, we are excited about several upcoming events and opportunities for students to connect and grow academically. Our MESA, Yearbook and Technolochicas Club continues to spark creativity and innovation, while our STUCO and Sports offer enriching experiences beyond the classroom. We also look forward to celebrating student achievements through various recognition programs, reinforcing the importance of hard work and dedication.

As always, our goal is to provide a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment where all students can thrive academically and socially. We encourage families to stay involved—whether by attending school events or simply checking in with your child about their learning experiences.

Please take a moment to review the newsletter for important dates, updates, and highlights from our classrooms. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to reach out. We value your feedback and partnership in making Desert Shadows Middle School a place of excellence for all students.

Thank you for your continued support. Let’s make this another fantastic month of learning and growth!

Sincerely,

Christopher Miranda, Principal