PTMS Weekly Parent Newsletter
October 6, 2023
Coming Up
October 9-19 - Dance ticket sales for the October 19 Red Carpet Dance - Ticket sales are: $5/ea from October 9 thru 13, then $10/ea from October 16 thru 19 - Student's must have their student ID and this signed parent permission/contract to purchase a ticket - sales end promptly at 3:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 19th and will NOT be sold at the door.
October 11 - ELAC Meeting - 5:30 p.m. - Learning Commons
October 13 - 1st Quarter Ends
October 13 - Trailblazer Awards - 12:20-12:40 p.m. - courtesy PTSA
Week of October 16 - Digital Citizenship Week
October 19 - ASB's Red Carpet Dance - 5:00-7:00 p.m. in the Quad - Ticket sales are: $5/ea from October 9 thru 13, then $10/ea from October 16 thru 19 - Student's must have their student ID and this signed parent permission/contract to purchase a ticket - sales end promptly at 3:15 p.m. on Thursday, October 19th and will NOT be sold at the door.
Message from the Principal
Wolfpack families,
Happy Friday! I am not sure if it's the warm temperatures or the time of year but there is a lot of energy on campus this week. PTMS has been buzzing for sure! We crowned our 7th and 8th grade dodgeball champions earlier in the week, and today they got to play the staff teams. Despite a valiant effort from our staff teams, we lost 2 games to 1 in both matches. The students had fun, and the staff didn't get injured so that's a win-win in my book! We will continue to have fun staff versus student activities throughout the year.
Staff members from left: Mr. Smith, Ms. English, Ms. Hunner, Ms. Hogelucht (kneeling), Mr. Jenkins, Mrs. Anderson, Coach Kuehl, and Coach Olson.
The middle school energy is also influenced by the fact that our first dance is coming up in a few weeks. Students are excited for sure, and I know that our ASB is working hard to prepare so that everyone enjoys the evening. If you'd like to volunteer as a parent, please see below (under ASB) on how to sign up.
Our 8th grade English classes did a deep dive on Edgar Allen Poe, looking at The Tell-Tale Heart and The Raven as they continue their understanding of literary devices in literature. Seventh grade science got the microscopes out this week conducting a lab about photosynthesis, and some of our PE students wrapped up the week with a pickleball tournament. I continue to be so impressed with how our teachers provide engaging and meaningful learning opportunities!
Next Monday is Indigenous Peoples' Day, so here is an interactive map, and you can find additional resources and information under the PTSA section of the newsletter below.
Finally, I want to put a few other things on your radar.
On Monday October 16, Jon Moffat will be speaking to all students in their PE classes about how to safely conduct yourself in cyberspace. I saw Jon's presentation last year at Carmel Valley MS and was very impressed. He resonates with students, and shows them not only the dangers that can exist with cell phones and the internet, but also provides steps to stay safe. Additionally, Jon will provide a pre-recorded parent education presentation that we will send out the afternoon of 10/16 so that you can be informed as well.
October 16 - 20: This week is designated as Digital Citizenship week. Our teachers will be engaging students with lessons on various topics including digital footprints, privacy and security, balancing media use, and how to respond to bullying and hate speech. All lessons are provided through Common Sense Media and you can find more information about the types of lessons here.
Have a wonderful weekend, and we look forward to seeing the students on Monday.
In gratitude,
Scott Wild
Principal
Message from the Counselors
Next Friday, October 13, marks the end of 1st Quarter. This is the halfway mark in the first semester. All students will receive a 1st quarter progress report grade for each of their classes with the exception of Homeroom. Instructions regarding when and how to access these grades will be shared in next week’s update. This is a progress report, not a semester grade. The progress report is the school’s way of giving you a ‘heads up’ about how well your child is doing so far. Now is a great time to check-in with your child and look at their Google Classrooms and Aeries accounts together to check if there are any recent missing assignments. A single missed assignment can have a huge impact. However- all is not lost! This really is a ‘heads up’. Teachers may allow the student to catch up late or missed work for either full or reduced points depending on the late work policy outlined in their syllabus. In either case, please make sure your child takes this opportunity. Any points are good points! One other thing to note is that points are cumulative for the first semester term grade. Earning 5/10 points for a late or missed assignment might not sound much, but that is 5 points that the student is not missing later. All of our wolves have been working so hard and there is a lot to celebrate as we wrap up this first quarter!
October is National Substance Abuse Prevention Month. This is a time to promote prevention efforts and the help that is available in our community. The key to substance use prevention is talking openly with our students and helping them understand the impact of substance abuse on their health. Studies show that the earlier an individual starts smoking, drinking, or using other drugs, the greater the likelihood of developing addiction. Every year that substance use is delayed during the period of adolescent brain development, the risk of addiction and substance abuse decreases. Below are resources on how to talk with your child about substance use and where to get help in our community.
• SAMHSA's substance use prevention campaign, “Talk. They Hear You”
(https://www.samhsa.gov/talk-they-hear-you) - helps parents and caregivers start talking to children about the dangers of alcohol and other drugs. Here are tips for having this difficult conversation with your child. Parents can also download an interactive app that supports starting conversations and practice. Here’s a short video to learn more about the app.
• Partnership to end addiction (https://drugfree.org/prevention-and-taking-action-early/) - provides science and research supported information to help in conversations about drug and alcohol use.
If you or a loved one is struggling, we want to remind you of Care Solace, a complimentary service available to the San Dieguito Union High School District community. To find a substance use or mental health care provider who will help you through your challenges, contact Care Solace at 888-515-0595 or www.caresolace.com/sduhsdfamilies.
Red Ribbon week will be October 23-27 and will consist of positive messaging and activities to help encourage students to live a drug-free life. More information coming soon!
Lisa Curry, Counselor (A-Ma) lisa.curry@sduhsd.net
Carsen Murt, Counselor (Mc-Z and EL Students) carsen.murt@sduhsd.net
Samantha Eels-Taylor, Student Support Facilitator samantha.eelstaylor@sduhsd.net
Mental Health & Wellness
Mental Health & Wellness Resources for Students, Staff, and School Community.
Click on the QR code to discover your PTMS Support Staff.
Student ID's Are In!
ID's are required when students purchase tickets and attend dances, purchase and attend the end-of-the-year 8th Grade Disneyland Trip, and so much more. If your student loses their ID, a new one can be purchased for $5.00 with Vetha in the front office.
If your student did not receive a Student ID card this week, please contact Vetha at Vetha.Pierce@sduhsd.net.
If you have questions about your student's picture, please contact Gerardy.
Click on this QR code to receive a link to your Gerardy photo gallery. This will open up a direct link to Gerardy with regard to your student's picture.
From the Attendance Office
~ Missing too much school can be scary!
From the Health Office
Many students are coming to the Health Office thirsty, and some even dehydrated!! It is especially noticeable when they are active in P.E. and come into the Health Office with symptoms of dizziness, headaches, or weakness. To avoid any potential emergencies, please send your student with a water bottle every single day!! Gatorade would also be helpful to pack in their lunch box or backpack to avoid dehydration. The Health Office is not the place for your student to get water, they need to bring water from home and refill their water bottle at the refilling stations on the school campus. Thank you in advance for your prompt attention to this important matter!
ASB and Student Announcements
You can check them out on the Students tab of our website under "Student Announcements" for a running post of each week's student announcements.
Red Carpet Dance - October 19 - 5:00-7:00 p.m. - Quad
Ticket sales begin on Monday, October 9th, and will go until 3:15 p.m. on October 19th. **Tickets will not be sold at the door.**
Ticket prices are: $5/each from October 9 thru 13, then $10/each from October 16 thru 19.
Student's must have their student ID and this signed parent permission/contract (also passed out in Homeroom classes today) to purchase a ticket. Tickets will be sold during lunch at the ASB tables or anytime with Vetha in the front office. Only a student can purchase their tickets. Parents can't do it for them.
We are looking for parent volunteers to help with food and supervision. Click here to sign-up.
Food Drive - November 1-17
PTMS is holding a food drive November 1st through November 17th.
This year, we are supporting 92130 Cares. They are a nonprofit organization whose mission is to share resources, make meaningful connections, and spread neighborly love!
Stay tuned for information about what foods to donate!
Department News
From the PE Department
From Yearbook
Remember to pre-order your yearbook early and check it off your back to school to do list! You can also scan the QR code below to sign-up and ensure you receive the most timely information on your 2023-24 Yearbook sales promotions!
Clubs
~ Club activity will be posted here throughout the year. To get a list of all Clubs currently active, please check our Activities page on our website.
From the PTSA
Thank you, PTMS Staff, for helping our students Fall in love with learning! PTSA was delighted to treat our amazing staff to a Fall snack bar.
Check out and Like our Facebook event pictures.
~ Petia Balden, PTSA Staff Appreciation Chair
Chromebook Insurance
Chromebook insurance is available for purchase by clicking this link.
The cost is $44 for coverage that lasts until August 7, 2024.
Deadline to purchase insurance is October 31, 2023.
Nutrition Services
Job Opportunities - Nutrition Services
SDUHSD is seeking individuals who want to make a difference in children’s lives in the role of an Instructional Assistant. We have positions available for Instructional Assistant – Special Education, Instructional Assistant – Behavior Intervention, and Instructional/Personal Care Assistant. These positions are typically between 4 – 6 hours per day, depending on the assignment.
Instructional Assistants assist a certificated teacher in providing instruction to an individual or small group of students in a special education learning environment. We have openings throughout the district at middle and high schools in Special Education classrooms.
If you are interested, or know someone else who would love this job, go to www.edjoin.org/sandieguito.
Multilingual Learner Corner
ELAC Meeting - October 11, 2023 - 5:30-6:30 p.m. - PTMS Learning Commons
Parents and Guardians of Multilingual Learner Students are invited to attend a joint ELAC meeting with PTMS and CCA on Wednesday, October 11th, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in the PTMS Learning Commons. Topics include EL reclassification, EL monitoring meetings, and school supports for ML students. Light refreshments will be served.
Special Education Sessions and Events
For a list of Special Education Informational Sessions and Family Events, please click here.
For meetings, trainings, workshops, and more from the North Coastal Consortium for Special Education, please click here.
SDUHSD Family Movie Night @ LCC - October 25th
CCA Teams
Torrey Pines Football Games
Due to the increasing number of fans at Torrey Pines football games, we will sell tickets online only. Please be mindful that we will likely reach capacity, so if you are planning on attending get your tickets early. Below is the link to purchase tickets. Go Falcons!
SDUHSD Job Opportunities Available!
SDUHSD is seeking individuals who want to make a difference in children’s lives in the role of a Campus Supervisor. We have both full- and part-time positions at campuses throughout the school district.
Campus Supervisors play an important role at our middle and high school campuses, working to provide a safe environment for all. The Campus Supervisor is a friendly face who assists students, visitors and administrators, while also ensuring rules and polices are followed.
If you are interested, or know someone else who would love this job, go to www.edjoin.org/sandieguito.
Other Important Items
- Boys & Girls Club - Seasonal sports information/registration.
- PTMS Live Calendar of Campus Events and 2023-24 Instructional Calendar.
- PTMS Spirit Wear/Gear - PTMS Spirit Wear and accessories for the whole family!
- PTMS Student Vehicle Permit - Register your bike/e-bike/scooter/skateboard with PTMS. Complete this form and turn in to the office.
- PTMS Webstore - PE clothes/Limited Series Clothing
- PTMS Webstore - Spirit Wear
- PTMS Yearbook. - Order today!
- San Dieguito Alliance for a Drug-Free Youth - complete the Parent Pledge here.
- San Dieguito Boys & Girls Club - click the link to the left for 2023-24 athletic schedules.
- SDUHSD - Employment Opportunities. To view a list of openings and to apply, please click https://www.edjoin.org/sandieguito or you can call Susan Gray at 760 753-6491 x5543.
This newsletter has also been posted to our website under "Parent Communications."
Deadline to submit articles for publication is Thursdays.