Wolfpack families,
Happy Friday! Our first full week of 2025 was just that...full! Students had multiple opportunities to connect, learn, and find joy in their day so I want to share some highlights. On Monday, I had an opportunity to speak to all of our 8th grade students in their PE classes. I presented on the power of words, the impact they can have on other people and ourselves, both in a positive and negative way. The intention, and hopefully the outcome, is to help students continue reflecting on how they speak to each other throughout the day, and how they can continue to use words to build themselves and other people up in a positive way. On Tuesday and Wednesday, our 8th graders heard from our counselors Ms. Curry and Ms. Anderson who pushed into social studies classes. The presentation shared information about high school selection for both Canyon Crest and Torrey Pines, so students can start thinking about which school may be a better fit for them. We will continue to communicate with you about the high school selection process, and if you would like to have some time with the high school principals, they will be at my Principal's Coffee on Friday, January 31, at 8:30 a.m. During this time, Mr. Coppo (TPHS), Mr. Kileen (CCA), and Mr. Ayala (Sunset) will share information about their respective schools. You are all invited to attend.
Students are engaging in a lot of great learning opportunities in their classes. Our 7th graders are doing physical fitness tests in PE, while in social studies some 7th graders are learning about the oral tradition and storytelling in West Africa. Our students in STEAM are in their robots unit where they are programming a robot to accomplish various tasks. When it doesn't work, they have to adjust the code, and it is great to see how much teamwork, communication, and problem solving is on display. Our 8th graders continue their study of social justice in English class, while in science, they are looking at potential and kinetic energy. Next week, Coach Olson will begin a new lunch league, this time with soccer. It is usually very popular and I know many of the students are very excited!
Shifting gears a little, you have heard me say that the safety of your child is our number one priority. As we all witness the devastation of the wildfires in the greater Los Angeles area, I want you to know that our site has multiple safety procedures in place, including evacuation. PTMS has a safety committee led by Dr. Hake that meets regularly, we conduct multiple drills each semester, and we have multiple ways to communicate with you should an emergency arise. As a site, and as a district, we will continue to reflect on our systems to ensure that we can care for all students and communicate with you effectively as the needs arise.
Looking ahead to next week, a gentle reminder that we will not have school on Monday as we honor and celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We will begin classes on Tuesday at 8:10 a.m. with period 1-3-5. Until then, I wish you a relaxing weekend.
In gratitude,
Scott Wild, Ed.D.
Principal
