
April 26, 2024 Panther Update
Palm Desert Charter Middle School

PDCMS Math Field Team
Our PDCMS Panther Mathletes did phenomenal at the Math Field Day competition on Saturday, April 20th!
7th grade Team - 2nd Place Trophy
8th grade Team - 3rd Place Trophy
Best Mathematician 7th grade- John Michael Pedalino
Best Mathematician 8th grade- Tolu Ajumobi
A big thank you to Ms. Jarden for the "Panther Proud" poster she made and to Ms. Munjal and Mrs. Sethi for coaching the teams. WAY TO GO PANTHERS!
PDCMS Dance Recital
Mrs. Ruiz's dance class' annual recital was a full of grace, rhythm, and exuberance. From the moment the music started, the stage came alive with infectious enthusiasm, as dancers of all skill levels brought their unique flair to each routine. Mrs. Ruiz's passion for dance was evident in every choreographed sequence, inspiring her students to give their all and revel in the magic of the performance. Our PDCMS Panther dancers poured their hearts into every step, every leap, and every twirl. Mrs. Ruiz, with her unwavering passion and dedication, has nurtured these dancers into a cohesive unit, showcasing their individual talents while harmonizing as a whole. Bravo Dance Class! Check out this sample of the performance.
Ms. Fecera's Foods Class
Archery at PDCMS!
Exciting news at PDCMS! Mr. Perez is introducing archery to our school, bringing a fresh and adventurous activity for students to explore. With his passion for the sport and dedication to student engagement, we anticipate thrilling experiences ahead as students learn the art of precision and focus through archery. This new addition promises to enhance our physical education and after school programs, and provide students with an opportunity to develop important skills while enjoying a fun and challenging activity. Get ready to aim high and hit the bullseye with Mr. Perez's archery program at PDCMS!
State Testing Starts Monday!
We want to remind you that state testing starts April 29th at PDCMS. It's a crucial time for our students to showcase their learning and achievements throughout the year. These assessments provide valuable insights into their academic progress and help us tailor our educational approach to better meet their needs.
Your support and encouragement play a vital role in helping them feel confident and prepared to excel.
Thank you for your partnership in your child's education. Together, we can help them succeed on their state assessments and beyond.
Career Day Speakers Needed!
We are excited to announce our upcoming Career Day at PDCMS on May 29th, and we need your help to make it a success! Career Day is an invaluable opportunity for our students to gain insight into various professions and industries, inspiring them to explore their interests and aspirations for the future.
We are reaching out to all parents who are passionate about their professions and willing to share their expertise with our students. Whether you work in healthcare, technology, finance, the arts, or any other field, your unique perspective and experiences can make a meaningful impact on our students' career exploration journey.
By volunteering to be a career day speaker, you have the chance to ignite curiosity, spark ambition, and broaden horizons for our students. Your involvement can help them make informed decisions about their academic and career paths, paving the way for their future success.
If you are interested in participating as a speaker for Career Day, please email Renee McDaniel at renee.mcdaniel@desertsands.us. Together, we can inspire the next generation of leaders and professionals. Thank you for your support and dedication to our students' educational journey.
PDCMS Governing Council Needs Three Parent Members
Nominations for Parent Members of the PDCMS Governing Council are now open. If you have, or will have*, a student attending PDCMS, we invite you to consider running for a two-year term. (Parents of students who will be in the 8th grade for the 2024-2026 School Year will only be eligible for a one year term unless they have other students in lower grades.)
The primary function of the Charter School Council is to uphold the Charter, establish the curriculum, and maintain the academic program at the Charter School. In addition, the Council will adopt a budget and monitor the fiscal condition of PDCMS. Council meetings are held once per month on a Wednesday; twice per month when needed. Meetings begin at 3:30pm at PDCMS.
The Governing Council consists of seven members. Membership will be composed of: one PDCMS certificated staff member elected by certificated staff, one PDCMS classified staff member elected by classified staff, three parent members elected by PDCMS parents, and two community members. Community members are voted on by the Governing Council. Nominees for Council membership may not be related to any other nominee or Governing Council member, i.e. marriage, sibling, parent.
Terms of office will begin in June 2024.
To nominate yourself for a parent seat on the PDCMS Governing Council, please complete and submit the information below on or before May 7th. Voting will be available online no later than June 3, 2024.
*Parents of students who are in the lottery for the 2024-2025 School Year may only serve if their child is accepted per the PDCMS Charter criteria.
Please contact Renee McDaniel at renee.mcdaniel@desertsands.us. She will email the nomination form to you. Should you have any questions, please call her at 760-862-4320 ext 30001
π‘ Reminders
PDCMS Students are required to wear their ID, lanyard, and school uniform daily.
Please review studentsβ planners and grades weekly.
Cell phones must be turned off and remain in backpacks until school is over.
Always follow the drop-off and pick-up procedures and drive slowly to keep all pedestrians safe.
Common Sense Media provides important information for parents regarding technology and social media.
Consider donating to support year-end 8th-grade activities to celebrate their years at PDCMS!
π Coming Up!
Dates to Remember π
- Apr 29th - California Healthy Youth Act instruction starts for 7th-graders only. Parents please see your email for more information
- Apr 29- May 17 - State Testing Window
Sports Calendar β½βΎπ
Apr 29th - PDCMS @ Desert Ridge academy
Apr 30th - PDCMS @ John Glenn
May 3rd - Paige @ PDCMS
May 7th - PDCMS @ Indio Middle
May 8th - Thomas Jefferson at PDCMS
May 10th - La Quinta Middle @ PDCMS
PARENT RESOURCES π€
Below is a link to our Coffee with the Counselor's video library. Here you can catch up on our team presenting a variety of important topics for you and your students. All are welcome to join us live in person or virtually on the first Wednesday of every month on campus.
Coffee with the Counselor's Video Library
Coffee with the Counselor's monthly Zoom invite link
ASK YOUR CHILD ABOUT β
Do I need to sign anything for your classes?
What is your favorite thing about your day?
Are you ready for testing?
The Eby family celebrating Caroline's citizenship award from The Daughters of the Revolution on April 26th