Panther Press

Hello CSMS Families,

We had a wonderful first quarter of school! I am continually impressed by the dedication I see everyday from our students and staff. As we continue to move forward, I would like to focus on our core value of respect.

Respect is a fundamental and crucial aspect of creating a positive and productive learning environment. It involves treating all individuals with dignity, consideration, and courtesy. Here are some key aspects I would like our students to keep in mind throughout the school year. Respect school property and the property of others. This includes taking care of equipment, keeping classrooms and common areas clean and tidy, and not vandalizing or stealing. Students should also value the opportunity to learn and show respect for the learning process. This means attending class regularly, being on time, completing assignments, and not disrupting class so others can learn as well.

Overall, respect is not just a set of rules, but a culture that should be cultivated. When students respect themselves and others, it creates a more inclusive, positive, and conducive environment for learning and personal growth. It's a crucial foundation for a successful educational experience to prepare students to be responsible and respectful citizens in society.

Sincerely,

Principal Larson

Our handbook is available on our website at:

School Handbook – Our School – Colonel Smith Middle School (fhasd.org)

• The Remind App will be used by teachers and admin at the school and district office to send information.
• You can download the School News App and select Colonel Smith Middle School to follow the latest website updates. Our website is filled with essential information, calendars and resources.
• Monthly Newsletters will be emailed and sent via the Remind App.
• PowerSchool access is available for parents.
• Information will be attached to the student schedules.
• Call the front office, 520-459-8892, if you need assistance.
• You can set notification alerts for grades and attendance.
• Email and phone calls will also be used to communicate with teachers and parents.

We would like to remind parents to contact the office by 8:00 a.m. if your child will be absent from school. It is important to have an accurate account of all students, even if your child will only miss a few minutes. You may reach the office at (520) 459-8892 ext. 1312 or email celadom@fhasd.org Please send a note with your student following an absence or email us (required) for documentation purposes. Thank you for your support regarding this important matter.

Please notify the school office at least 3 days in advance if you are moving. All school materials will need to be returned and you will need to sign a withdrawal form on your child's last day. Notify the office by calling (520) 459-8892 or emailing celadom@fhasd.org or littleb@fhasd.org.

Welcome to Panther Athletics! We are excited that you are interested in extracurricular programs offered at Colonel Smith Middle School. As we begin the school year, please review the goals, objectives, and expectations that must be followed to be a member of our athletic teams. We look forward to a competitive and great year! Our expectation for our student-athletes is that they have the dedication, desire, and discipline to commit themselves to the rules, regulations, and training needed to achieve excellence.

Goals of Athletic Programs:

• To gain a working knowledge of the sport
• To improve personal performance
• To compete as a team, and build teamwork
• To always demonstrate good sportsmanship

Objectives of Athletic Programs:

• To demonstrate a positive attitude personally, and in interactions with other players
• To model good sportsmanship on and off the field of play
• To become a well-rounded student
• To maintain and support a healthy and active lifestyle

Dr. Sam Granillo

Athletic Director

granillog@fhasd.org

520-459-8986

All students must have a sports physical and all required forms completed in Final Forms in order to try-out for any sports team. Click the following link to create or update your Final Forms account today. https://forthuachuca-az.finalforms.com/

Boys Basketball

Try-outs October 2nd & 3rd, 3-4PM, in the Gym.

Coach Peralta is looking for 16-17 players between A & B Teams.

Parents are welcome at basketball try-outs.

Girls Softball

Try-outs October 2nd & 3rd, 3-4:30PM

Bring your glove and cleats to try-outs. If you make the team, Coach Butler will send out a more detailed gear list.

October 6 & 9- Columbus Day (NO SCHOOL)

October 13- Friday the 13th Halloween Dance

October 16- Sports Pics (Boys Basketball & Girls Softball)

October 17- NAMI Suicide Prevention Parent Meeting @ Support Center 5:00PM-6:30PM

October 23 through 31- Red Ribbon Week

October 27- Uniform Free Day

October 31- Early Release @ 11:40AM (NO LUNCH SERVED)

NAMI Ending the Silence is a free presentation designed to give audience members an opportunity to learn about mental illness through an informative Power Point and short videos.

There are 3 types of presentations:

• One for students
• One for staff
• One for families

Each presentation outlines symptoms of mental health conditions and gives attendees ideas about how to help themselves, friends, or family members who may need support. Additionally, all 3 presentations include personal testimony from a young adult living with a mental health condition and his/her journey to recovery.

Students in STEM and WIN participated in an Architecture competition called Kidstruction. Projects were on display at Park Place Mall.

The CSMS Boys Cross Country team won the CAC Championship in Benson on September 28th. This team dominated the competition this year with their hard word and winning spirit. The Girls team consistently improved with each meet. 8th grader Layla Topper set the bar high as the one to beat as she took first place at every meet!

• Students will have lunch in the cafeteria and recess outside, weather permitting, as a grade level.
• They can bring packed lunch or get a school lunch.
• If you feel your family would qualify for free or reduced lunch, the instructions to apply are included in the letter from Mrs. Karen Nieto, attached to this message. We would prefer all applications be completed digitally, however; a paper copy is also available in the front office.
• If you have questions regarding the application process or would like a paper copy of the application, please reach out to Mrs. Little or Mrs. Celado in the front office and they will be happy to assist you. Please note, the number of students that qualify for free or reduced lunch is tied to many of our funding sources so we highly encourage all families to apply even if they think they might not qualify.
• Free and Reduced Lunch Parent Letter
• Free and Reduced Lunch Application

• We are grateful to have an amazing PTO! They are always looking for volunteers!
• PTO Facebook
• PTO Spirit Wear