The Pride of Palo Alto

Happy Sunday Patriot Families,

It has been a busy and exciting week at Palo Alto Middle School! Our students continue to make us proud in academics, fine arts, and athletics. From strong performances in track and academic competitions to a fantastic theatre production, our Patriots are showing what it means to commit to success both inside and outside the classroom.

We also want to thank everyone who supported our Black History Month program. It was a meaningful celebration of history, leadership, and perseverance. Our students did an incredible job reflecting on the impact of those who have shaped our world and continue to inspire future generations.

As we move closer to spring and upcoming assessments, please continue encouraging your student to attend school daily, arrive on time, and give their best effort in every class. Consistent attendance, strong focus, and positive choices truly make a difference. We are committed to helping every Patriot grow academically and personally—and we appreciate your partnership in making that happen.

Thank you for your continued support. Together, we are doing some awesome things at Palo Alto Middle School.

With Patriot Pride,

Christina Harris

We are always looking for caring and dedicated volunteers to support our students and staff here at Palo Alto Middle School. Whether it’s helping at events, mentoring students, or assisting with special projects, your involvement makes a big difference!

To volunteer, all individuals must first complete the KISD Volunteer Application (https://www.killeenisd.org/o/kisd/page/volunteer). Once cleared, volunteers will then attend a volunteer orientation at Palo Alto before getting started. We would love to partner with you in building a strong Patriot community!

Women’s History Month

Youth Arts Month

School Breakfast Week

Educational Diagnosticians Week

School Social Worker Week

Monday, March 2nd –

Math Benchmark testing schedule (after lunches will be periods 4, 8, 9)

KISD Fine Arts Exhibition @ Civic Center (10:00AM-4:00PM)

Track Meet @ HHHS (5:00PM)

• Girls Field Events
• Boys Running Events

Tuesday, March 3rd –

KISD Fine Arts Exhibition @ Civic Center (1:00PM-7:00PM)

Wednesday, March 4th –

Field trip: Band UIL Concert @ CHS

KISD Fine Arts Exhibition @ Civic Center (10:00AM-3:00PM)

Track Meet @ HHHS (5:00PM)

• Girls Running Events
• Boys Field Events

Thursday, March 5th –

Field Trip: KISD Food Show

Choir 6th Grade Festival @ EHS (6:00PM)

Spirit Wear: College shirt

Friday, March 6th –

Food Reward Day

Hero Celebration

Patriot of the Month during lunches

Spirit Wear: Patriot shirt

Saturday , March 7th –

Saturday Detention (8-12)

We have a number of students with many unexcused absences. Please use the link the below to submit parent notes to excuse them. If you have questions, you can contact our attendance secretary, Ana.Aponte-Sanchez@killeenisd.org.

Staying Calm and Focused

Middle school can be stressful, but practicing coping strategies helps students feel in control and resilient.

Counselor Tip:

• Teach deep breathing, mindfulness, or stretching exercises

• Encourage identifying stress triggers and planning ways to handle them

• Model problem-solving instead of avoidance

Tip for Families:

• Talk with your child about stressful moments and brainstorm coping strategies

• Encourage balancing schoolwork with relaxation and fun

• Offer reassurance and support when they feel overwhelmed

Wellness Corner:

• Physical activity reduces stress and improves mood

• Short breaks, hobbies, or creative outlets refresh the mind

• Adequate sleep and healthy nutrition support emotional wellbeing

Counselor’s Note:
Counselors are available to help students practice coping strategies, manage stress, and develop healthy routines for school and life.

We are excited to continue our after-school athletic events this week! Please remember that KISD’s clear bag policy will be in effect for all games, and tickets must be purchased online in advance. There will be no cash taken at the door/gate and there will not be devices for anyone to use to purchase at the gate. Please let grandparents, aunts, uncles and all other family members know this is the new process.

When attending, we ask that all families model the Patriot Way by being positive and supportive of our student-athletes. Our role as fans is to encourage our team, not put down the other team or use inappropriate language or behavior. Texas has recently passed a law that requires us to remove spectators immediately if a game official requires it--there will be no warnings. Please help us to make our events a positive experience for all!

Together, we can create a spirited and respectful environment that makes every game a great experience for students, families, and our community.

Students watched the video linked below earlier this year in order to ensure they know what the

expectations are. We believe that knowledge is power--knowing and understanding the rules helps them to be more successful.

A few points to be aware of:

• One (1) fight SHALL result in a due process hearing with a recommendation for DAEP placement. Students placed at DAEP for fighting shall be assigned for a minimum of 45 days and may be placed up to 90 days.
• Off campus fights may be considered a disruption to the campus learning environment and students who participate may be subject to a due process hearing with a recommendation for DAEP placement for a minimum of 45 days and up to 90 days.
• A student must be placed in a DAEP if the student: Commits an assault under Penal Code 22.01(a)(1)(3). Assault is defined in part by Penal Code 22.01 as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another; intentionally or knowingly threatening another with imminent bodily injury; or intentionally or knowingly causing physical contact with another that can reasonably be regarded as offensive or provocative.
• On the 3rd cell phone offense, the student will be assigned three days of In School Suspension (ISS) and will have a District-Level Hearing (DLH) with recommendation to the District Alternative Education Program (DAEP).

We want to keep our Patriots learning and growing here at Palo Alto, so please take time to talk with your students about the impact and consequences of their choices. Our discipline process is not just about consequences—it’s about teaching responsibility, accountability, and respect for others. When students understand expectations and take ownership of their actions, they are better able to stay focused on learning and enjoy a safe, positive school environment.

Bus Route information was made available to parents/guardians via Home Access Center for those who are eligible and requested transportation.

Expect transportation delays the few days of the school year. However, Killeen ISD provides

the Edulog Parent Portal Lite smartphone app to help you receive information about your student's

bus ride. The app allows you to see real-time information about the location of your student's bus

and will alert you when the bus is getting close to the bus stop.

Drop-Off & Pick-Up Map for Cars and Buses

Please notice the drop off and pick up areas for cars at PAMS. For the safety of our students,

please do not drop off in the bus loop.

Parents/Guardians should only be driving in the yellow area indicated on the map.

The red area is for buses only. Parents who enter the red area are putting students and staff at

risk as there is limited visibility when buses are present.

Patriot families should be able to access your student's grades in Home Access Center (HAC). HAC is a valuable resource and is one way that teachers communicate your student's progress throughout the year (see attachment below for information about HAC). If you need assistance with it, please reach out to our parent liaison, Brittanee Warren (Brittanee.warren@killeenisd.org).