

Panther Press
September 2023
Mrs. Sandy Larson
Pepper the Panther
Letter From the Principal
Hello CSMS Families,
We had a successful first month of school. I can't believe it is already September! It has been wonderful seeing our students back in the classroom. I am continually impressed by the focus and dedication of all CSMS students and staff.
As September begins, I would like to address safety. Our district utilizes P3 Campus for anonymous reporting. P3 Campus allows students, parents and staff to voice concerns of student safety and wellness. This program is student-focused, not crime focused. It is a tool for alerting caring adults about students who need help--it is not snitching. Things like bullying, suicide or self-harm concerns, depression, sexting, stealing, threats, abuse, fights, drugs, alcohol, weapons, or other types of dangerous situations that threaten student safety or the safety of others can be reported. It is 100% anonymous. You can access P3 Campus at the following link...
https://www.fhasd.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1522195&type=d&pREC_ID=2483840
Sincerely,
Principal Larson
Our handbook is available on our website at:
School Handbook – Our School – Colonel Smith Middle School (fhasd.org)
Communication
- 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.
Morning Arrival
- Supervision outside begins at 7:40AM. Please DO NOT drop students off before this time.
- The bell rings and doors open at 7:50AM. The tardy bell rings at 7:55AM. After 7:55AM, students will have to go to the front office for a tardy pass before heading to class.
- If the drop off circle is full, please do not stop traffic on the main road. You can park in the parking lot or drop off in the Youth Center parking lot across the street from the school.
- Staff will be outside directing students to their appropriate grade level entrance.
Attendance
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.
End of Day Dismissal
- The end of day bell rings at 2:55PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.
- The end of day bell rings at 1:50PM on Thursday.
- If you are picking up your student in the car loop, please be patient and exercise caution. You are welcome to park in the parking lot. Please do not block the road.
Delayed Dismissal Information
- Monsoon Season is upon us. We may experience afternoon storms causing a delayed dismissal for all students. Please be familiar with our Delayed Dismissal Procedures.
- It is not about the amount of rain falling, but rather the safety of our students and staff due to lightning in the area.
- Parents are welcome to come into the front office and sign out their student during any delay, however, we will not release students to walk alone anywhere outside during the Delayed Dismissal. Safety first!
Athletics
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
520-459-8986
Girls Volleyball
Girls & Boys Cross Country
Lunch
- 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
PTO
- We are grateful to have an amazing PTO! They are always looking for volunteers!
- PTO Facebook
- PTO Spirit Wear