September 6, 2024

Posted on September 6, 2024 by Sean Keating

Principal’s Hello

Dear Golden Eagle families,

We welcomed almost 600 students through our doors this week to start our 2024-25 school year. Amazing! It’s such a great feeling to get this big, beautiful building full of student laughter again. And our hard-working teachers and staff have created a warm, welcoming, safe environment for high levels of learning.

In advisory this week we introduced our campus-wide expectations, reviewed our “Big 4” rules, and started to create classroom community. In each area of the school, we want students to know exactly what safe, respectful, and responsible looks like.

Thanks to our parents who are following the district policy on e-bikes and e-scooters. Since the policy went into place last school year, we’ve had zero infractions here at PCMS. Thanks for your teamwork.

Enjoy your weekend, and see you Monday!

Sean

Checklist for Start of the Year Payments!

Annual iPad Insurance | $30 | highly recommended | deadline Monday, Sept. 9
PE Shirt – All students | $9.00 |required | deadline Monday, Sept. 9

Immediate Volunteers Needed!

Starting this Monday, we will be issuing iPads to students and we need a few volunteers to help. If you are available from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM on either or both days, please contact Deb Mullen at [email protected]. When responding, include which day and time period works for you. Please note that you must already be a cleared volunteer. If you are uncertain, Deb can check for you. Thanks for considering!

District-wide E-bike and E-Scooter Regulation

Just a reminder that as of April 8, 2024 there is a District Regulation in place regarding the use of e-bikes and e-scooters on all Bend-La Pine school campuses for any student under 16 years of age. (See Bend-La Pine Family Spotlight dated March 18, 2024 for more info.) This is a public safety issue, and this policy parallels state law and plain common sense around e-bike and e-scooter ridership.

Pacific Crest will enforce the regulation throughout the school year. Students will first be warned and parents contacted. After the first warning, we will hold the bike at school and only release the bike to the parent.

Important Message from Attendance Office | Student Early Release

Help us help you! If you require your student to be released from school early, it is critical that you contact the Attendance Office at least 30 minutes before you need your student released. You can send an email to [email protected] or call 541-355-7820 to leave a voicemail. Rest assured your message (email & phone) will get picked up within several minutes and a note will be delivered to your student. Walk-ins are not preferred, but happens from time to time. Expect to wait several minutes as we scramble to get your student.

Also, please do not call any other school phone line such as the main office. If you call a phone line other than the Attendance phone line, you will be immediately be transferred to the attendance message line automatically to leave a voicemail. Please also know that we do not have office aides at this time. Therefore, office support staff are required to leave their desks to run notes so please do you best to follow the above request and to plan ahead. We thank for your understanding of this process.

Photo Day is Coming!

Dorian Studios will be onsite, Thursday, September 26, to photograph all students and staff. To order student photo packets online with a credit card, simply click on this flyer or follow instructions below in English or Spanish. If you would rather pay with check, you may pick up an order form at the PCMS main office. If you have any questions, contact Dorian Studio Support or call 1-800-826-3535. Please note: Late orders will be be accepted up to 4 days following photo day with no additional fee.

  • Go to dorianstudio.com and search for Pacific Crest Middle School
  • Select the order button from the appropriate photo day
  • Complete your transaction
  • Visita dorianstudio.com y busca en tu escuela
  • Haga clic en el boton de predio para la fecha correcta de la foto
  • Competa la transaccion

Volunteering at PCMS: Information & Process

We love volunteers! If you are interested in volunteering at PCMS and are not currently cleared to do so, please go to the BLS Volunteer webpage for all the information you need to become a BLS Volunteer.

Advisory at Pacific Crest

During advisory this year we will deliver our social-emotional learning lessons. Staff will use the Wayfinder curriculum, which is “research-backed and incorporates meaning-making, critical thinking, and future-ready skills in order to connect classroom learning to the real world.”

One to two days a week, students will have the opportunity to use our  Advisory time for study hall or sustained silent reading. Students will also regularly take part in grade level and school-wide team building activities. 

Occasionally, we have extra time in Advisory. We would like to keep students off their iPads and instead offer opportunities for students to play small group games. PCMS is collecting new and lightly used games that can be shared in our classrooms. We would love to have the following games donated at the start of this school year if you are able to do so: deck of cards, Uno, Bananagrams, chess, checkers, Apples to Apples, Battleship, and Jenga. You may drop them off at the PCMS Main Office. Thank you for your consideration!

What is the Family Access Network | FAN?

FAN advocates work with ALL families with children birth age through graduation. They are here for you in all circumstances. If you have needs around clothing, school supplies, food, rent or utility help, or enrolling in Oregon Health Plan, please reach out to your FAN advocate. Advocates have offices in your child’s school and are available via phone, email or text. Their goal is to make sure that your child has everything they need to be ready to learn. To read more about FAN please visit: familyaccessnetwork.org

Sarah Bolling is our FAN Advocate at Pacific Crest. She also serves High Lakes Elementary, Miller Elementary and Ponderosa Elementary. Sarah can be reach via text, phone or email. Her contact information is below.

GET TO & FROM SCHOOL IN A SAFE AND RESPONSIBLE MANNER

Safety is a primary concern this week as students return to school. That begins with all of us doing our part to make sure students have safe ways to travel to and from school, whether by bus or car, bike or scooter, or on foot.

Students and families may experience some congestion and confusion outside schools this week. It will get better! Here’s how DRIVERS can help:

  • Slow down and watch for students making their way to buses, walking or rolling to school, and crossing streets and parking areas.
  • If you are dropping off or picking up your student at school, please plan for some extra time and be patient with the line.

STUDENTS & FAMILIES, here’s what we’d like you to know about getting to school:

SAFE ROUTES: We have fun, safe and convenient walking/biking routes to many of our schools. See all 19 Safe Routes for Bend-La Pine Schools at commuteoptions.org/safe-routes-to-school

ABOUT E-BIKES: Students 16 and older legally may operate e-bikes in Oregon. Anyone under 16 may not, according to state law. Be aware of this and use e-bikes legally and responsibly.

ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET if using a bike, scooter, skateboard or other wheeled device.

WATCH YOUR SPEED! The start of school brings more traffic around our schools and along key routes. Please slow down in high-traffic areas and around pedestrians.

DISMOUNT AND WALK your bike, scooter or skateboard when on school property. We ask that you not ride on school grounds, before or after school.

__________________

LLEGAR Y SALIR DE LA ESCUELA DE MANERA SEGURA Y RESPONSABLE

La seguridad es una preocupación principal esta semana cuando los estudiantes regresan a la escuela. Eso comienza cuando todos hacemos nuestra parte para garantizar que los estudiantes tengan formas seguras de viajar hacia y desde la escuela, ya sea en autobús, automóvil, bicicleta, monopatín  o a pie.

Los estudiantes y las familias pueden experimentar cierta congestión y confusión fuera de las escuelas esta semana. ¡Se pondrá mejor! Así es como CONDUCTORES pueden ayudar:

  • Reduzca la velocidad y observe a los estudiantes que se dirigen a los autobuses, caminan o ruedan hacia la escuela y cruzan calles y áreas de estacionamiento.
  • Si va a dejar o recoger a su estudiante en la escuela, planifique algo de tiempo adicional y tenga paciencia con la fila.

ESTUDIANTES Y FAMILIAS , esto es lo que nos gustaría que supiera sobre cómo llegar a la escuela:

RUTAS SEGURAS:  Contamos con rutas divertidas, seguras y convenientes para caminar o andar en bicicleta a muchas de nuestras escuelas. Vea las 19 rutas seguras para las escuelas de Bend-La Pine en commuteoptions.org/safe-routes-to-school

ACERCA DE LAS BICICLETAS ELECTRÓNICAS: Los estudiantes mayores de 16 años pueden operar legalmente bicicletas eléctricas en Oregón. Cualquier persona menor de 16 años no puede hacerlo, según la ley estatal. Sea consciente de esto y utilice las bicicletas eléctricas de forma legal y responsable.

SIEMPRE USE UN CASCO si usa una bicicleta, scooter, patineta u otro dispositivo con ruedas.

¡CUIDE SU VELOCIDAD! El inicio de clases trae más tráfico alrededor de nuestras escuelas y a lo largo de rutas clave. Reduzca la velocidad en áreas de mucho tráfico y alrededor de peatones.

DESMONTE Y CAMINE su bicicleta, monopatín o patineta cuando esté en propiedad escolar. Le pedimos que no monten en los terrenos de la escuela, antes o después de la escuela.

Mark your Calendar

  • Sept. 26| School Photo Day
  • Sep. 26 | Back to School Night (more to come soon)
  • Oct. 30 – 31 | Conferences (more to come soon)
  • Oct. 30 – Nov. 1 | No School due to Conferences
  • Nov. 5 | School Photo Retake Day
  • Nov. 11 | No School | Veteran’s Day
  • Nov. 25 – 29 | No School | Thanksgiving Week
  • Dec. 23 – Jan. 3 | No School | Winter Break
  • Jan. 20 | No School | Martin Luther King Jr. Day
  • Jan. 31 | No School | End of 1st Semester
  • Mar. 23 – 28 | No School | Spring Break
  • Apr. 11 | Spring Fling Dance |4:00 – 6:00
  • Apr. 16 – 17 | Conferences
  • Apr. 16 – 18 | No School due to Conferences
  • May 26 | No School | Memorial Day
  • June 12 | Last Day of School

Helpful Links

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August 30, 2024

Posted on August 30, 2024 by Sean Keating

Principal’s Hello

Welcome to the last weekend of summer! We just finished an amazing launch week with our teachers and staff here at PCMS. To top it off, our 8th grade WEB leaders did their final training before welcoming our new 6th graders on Wednesday. 

There is a lot of energy and anticipation for next week! We’re psyched! Please keep reading for important updates from our counselors regarding student schedules and a review of school rules from our assistant principal and dean of students. 

Finally, please consider hosting a Japanese exchange student this September! We still need to place six students. They will only be here for a week, and they can eat all their breakfasts and lunches here at PCMS! (Reach out to Ami Zepnewski if you’re interested: [email protected])

See you soon!

Sean

Japanese Exchange Students

Pacific Crest Middle School is excited to host a group of exchange students from Toyota City, Japan, from September 22 to 29. We are currently seeking six host families to welcome these students into their homes. During their stay, the students will attend PCMS and will be provided with breakfast and lunch each day.

If you want to become a host family, don’t hesitate to contact Ami Zepnewski at [email protected] 

Thank you for considering making this cultural exchange a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Checklist for Start of the Year Payments!

Annual iPad Insurance | $30 | highly recommended | deadline Monday, Sept. 9
PE Shirt – All students | $9.00 |required | deadline Monday, Sept. 9
Athletics Cross Country | $40 | deadline Thursday, Sept. 5

Transitioning Back to School

Returning to school can feel overwhelming for families. Preparing ourselves as parents is essential to supporting our children. Click here for tips for a smooth transition.

Transición de vuelta a la escuela para los padres. La vuelta al colegio puede resultar abrumadora para las familias. Prepararnos como padres es esencial para apoyar a nuestros hijos. Haga clic aquí para obtener consejos decómo hacer que la transición de regreso a la escuela sea más fácil.

Student Schedules Go Live !

Schedule will be available this evening, Friday, August 30 via StudentVue and ParentVue.

Our student services department is not taking schedule change requests unless there is an error with your child’s schedule. An error would look like accidentally having two identical classes, etc. Specifically, we do not change student schedules for friends or activities. Many of our students have extracurricular activities and we simply cannot accommodate changing schedules for this. Also, classes are still being balanced and all students should check their schedules on the first day of school. We will also be providing each student with a paper copy of their schedule on the 1st day of school. Thank you for your understanding.

Required PE Dress Down Policy & Shirt Purchase

Students will be expected to be dressed down and ready to go by Monday, September 9. PE shirts are required for PE per our Dress Down Policy. The cost per shirt is $9.00. Please go to TouchBase by Monday, 9/9 to pay for your student’s PE shirt and select a size. Each student may order one PE shirt and we will try to accommodate the size request as our inventory allows!! Teachers will go over this in class first week of school.

PCMS Robotics Club is expanding!

We are aiming to have a 6th grade First Lego League competition team meeting 1 day/week after school AND a separate 7th and 8th grade First Tech Challenge competition Team meeting 2 days/week after school.  No prior robotics experience necessary, just a willingness to work with others, learn new skills and prepare to compete. We’re looking for adult volunteers to be organizational leaders (Coaches) and technical leaders (Mentors). Email Carey Kraybill (PCMS Design & Modeling Teacher / Robotics Coach) if interested at [email protected].

Please note: Lunch clubs will be available throughout the year for students to join. More information will be share in the month of October. Stay tuned.

Student Pick-Up & Drop-Off

You may drop your student off as early as 8:35 AM. First period starts at 8:50 AM, but we’d like all students here no later than 8:45 AM. We want everyone to have time to go to their locker to drop off their backpack and get materials for class. Backpacks are not allowed in classrooms.

Tardy Policy

Backpack Policy

Backpack must remain in student lockers. Backpacks impede teachers and students from moving around the classroom, backpacks can contain distracting materials and also serve as a temptation for theft, and they could serve as a storage place for weapons (safety). Students will have plenty of time to go to their lockers between classes to get the materials they need.

Bathroom Policy

We will allow students to use the bathroom during class. Only 1 student will leave class at a time, with a hall pass. Also, students have 5 minutes to use the restroom and return to class. If a student takes more than 5 minutes, the teacher will have a private discussion with the student to remind them of the policy and to ensure that everything is okay. If a student is using the bathroom everyday, and teachers suspect work avoidance or some other issue, teachers will meet with that student privately to discuss concerns and seek more information. A counselor may also have this conversation with the student.

Get a Good Start to the New School Year!

Listen to the welcome message from the Superintendent’s Office and read the BLS Family Spotlight blog for important news and reminders regarding the start of the new school year.

Mark your Calendar

  • Sep. 3 | WEB Leader Training, Day 2: | 10:00 – 3:00 | Gym 
  • Sep. 4 | First Day of School – 6 Grade Students Only | 8:50 – 3:45
  • Sep. 4 | 7 & 8 Grade New Student Orientation | 2:00 – 3:30
  • Sep. 4 | Football Parent Meeting | 6:00 | Football Field
  • Sep. 5 | First Day of School for all grade levels
  • Sep. 5 | Fall Athletic Registration for Cross-Country Ends | 5:00
  • Sep. 5 | Cross-Country Parent Meeting | 5:00 | Library
  • Sept. 26| School Portrait Day
  • Sep. 26 | Back to School Night (more to come soon)

Helpful Links

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August 23, 2024

Posted on August 24, 2024 by Sean Keating

Principal’s Hello

Hello, PCMS Families!

This is our last weekend of summer before our teachers come back next week! I’m excited for you to meet a few new people who will be teaching at PCMS this year (and hopefully for many years to come)!

Be sure to mark Thursday, September 26 on your calendar. This is our Back to School Night, and it’s a great event. You’ll get to meet your student’s teachers, our counselors and administrators, and our PCCO president. Also, you’ll see the beautiful school where your child spends a majority of their time from September to June. We’ll send more info at a later time, but please mark your calendar!

I wish you all an awesome final week of summer, and I look forward to the new year! Let’s go, Golden Eagles!

Sean

Personal Electronic Devices (English)

  • Students not permitted to use their phones in class
  • Devices must be off and away all day through grade 8

In Bend-La Pine Schools, we believe the best way for students to engage in their learning is to limit distractions in the classroom. Restricting access to phones and personal electronics during the school day helps students focus on learning, engage with teachers and peers, and develop skills and habits for life beyond school.

Please be sure your student is aware of the following expectations for phones and other personal electronic devices:

High School: Students will silence their phones and place them in a classroom phone caddy at the beginning of each class period. Phones are to remain in the caddy until the class period is over. Students also must refrain from wearing or using wireless earbuds during class time. Students may use their phones and other devices during lunch and breaks between classes.

Middle School: Students are not permitted to have phones or wireless earbuds during the school day. Phones and other personal devices are to be turned off and stored in students’ lockers for the entire school day, from the morning bell to end-of-day dismissal. (PCMS Rules regarding cell phones and other electronic devices)

Elementary School: Students are not permitted to have phones or wireless earbuds during the school day. Phones and other personal devices are to be turned off and stored in their backpacks for the entire school day, from the morning bell to end-of-day dismissal.

Smartwatches: Many students wear watches that can access apps on their phone. Students are not permitted to use a smartwatch to access mobile apps or the Internet, or to send and receive messages (text or call) during class periods. Elementary and middle school students are not permitted to use smartwatches for those purposes anytime during the school day.

Violations: Students who violate these rules are subject to disciplinary action, including surrendering their phone or device to the school office until the end of the day. After repeated violations, a student’s phone or device will be held until a parent or guardian picks it up at the office.

We recognize that it can be challenging to manage personal device expectations throughout the school year. We are committed to working with students, families, teachers and administrators to meet these expectations and provide the best learning environment we can.

As always, please call your school office if you have an urgent need to contact your student.

Dispositivos Electrónicos Personales (español)

  • No se permite que los alumnos utilicen sus teléfonos en el aula.
  • Los dispositivos deben estar apagados y recogidos durante todo el día en todos los grados. 

En las escuelas de Bend-La Pine creemos que la mejor manera para que los alumnos participen en su aprendizaje es limitar las distracciones en el aula. Restringir el acceso a los teléfonos y a los electrónicos personales durante el día escolar ayuda a los alumnos a enfocarse, a participar con los maestros y los compañeros, y a desarrollar destrezas y habilidades para la vida más allá de la escuela.

Por favor, asegúrese de que su alumno es consciente de las siguientes expectativas con respecto a los teléfonos y otros dispositivos electrónicos personales: 

Escuelas superiores: Los alumnos silenciarán sus teléfonos y los ubicarán en la caja para teléfonos del aula al comienzo de cada período de clase. Los teléfonos permanecerán en la caja hasta que termine el período de clase. Los alumnos no deben llevar tampoco ni utilizar audífonos sin cable durante el tiempo de clase. Los alumnos pueden utilizar sus teléfonos y otros dispositivos durante el almuerzo y los descansos entre clases.

Escuelas secundarias: No se permite que los alumnos tengan teléfonos o audífonos sin cable durante el día escolar. Los teléfonos y otros dispositivos personales deben estar apagados y guardados en los casilleros de los alumnos durante todo el día escolar, desde el timbre de entrada al de salida al final del día.

Escuelas primarias: No se permite que los alumnos tengan teléfonos o audífonos sin cable durante el día escolar. Los teléfonos y otros dispositivos personales deben estar apagados y guardados en sus mochilas durante todo el día escolar, desde el timbre de entrada al de salida al final del día.

Relojes inteligentes: Muchos alumnos llevan relojes con los que pueden acceder a las aplicaciones de su teléfono. No se permite que los alumnos utilicen sus relojes inteligentes para acceder a las aplicaciones móviles o el internet, o para enviar y recibir mensajes (ni de texto ni de llamada) durante los períodos de clases. No se permite que los alumnos de primaria y secundaria utilicen relojes inteligentes para esos propósitos en ningún momento del día escolar.

Infracciones: Los alumnos que rompan estas normas están sujetos a medidas disciplinarias, incluyendo entregar su teléfono o dispositivo en la oficina de la escuela hasta el final del día. Después de varias infracciones, el teléfono o dispositivo de un alumno se guardará hasta que un padre o tutor lo recoja de la oficina.

Reconocemos que puede ser un reto gerenciar las expectativas con respecto a los dispositivos personales a lo largo del año escolar. Estamos comprometidos a trabajar con los alumnos, las familias, los maestros y administradores para cumplir con estas expectativas y proporcionar el mejor entorno para el aprendizaje que podamos.

Como siempre, por favor, llame a la oficina de su escuela si tiene una necesidad urgente de ponerse en contacto con su alumno.

Bell Schedules (Click this link to view & print)

Authorization for Medication Administration

If your student will require medication at school, please take a moment to read the district guidelines. Parents may bring medications to school beginning Wednesday, September 4, with a signed authorization form. You can download the authorization forms (staff administration or self-administration) from the district website here (scroll down to medical forms), or we can provide a form to you when you arrive. If you have any questions, please reach out to the consulting registered nurse at (541) 355-6922 or [email protected].

First Day of School for 6th Graders Only!

We are very excited that your child will be attending Pacific Crest Middle School. We look forward to seeing them on Wednesday, September 4th, for their first day of school. Their day will start with an orientation led by our PCMS WEB Leaders to help your 6th grader get off to a great start! District bus transportation is available, and your student must be registered. Click here to find all information regarding bus transportation, bus registration and view pick-up/drop-off times and locations for your student.

What is WEB? (Where Everybody Belongs) 

WEB is a nationwide program designed to welcome and support 6th graders by connecting them with WEB Leaders who are positive, responsible, hand-selected 8th graders. Your student’s WEB Leaders will help them feel more comfortable as well as help them achieve success in their first year of middle school. Doesn’t that sound great? It is! 

What happens next? 

  • Your student will arrive at school by 8:50 am, and we will begin our WEB activities that will last until 12:00 pm. Students will be treated to a free school lunch on this day only as if offered each day during the school year. After lunch, they will attend their classes for the remainder of the day. The day will end at 3:45. Schedule of events for this day is available here. 
  • Your student is advised not to bring backpacks, purses, or similar items, as the day will involve a lot of physical activity.
  • Because the day is active, please ensure that your student wears comfortable clothing that does not restrict movement.
  • Students will be issued their iPads as well!

Invite for New Incoming 7th & 8th Graders

We will be hosting a brief information session for 7th and 8th grade students that are new to Pacific Crest this school year. Join us on Wednesday, September 4th, from 2:00-3:00 pm. During this time, we will hand out schedules, test out lockers, tour the building, and get to meet some of the wonderful 8th grade WEB leaders. Families will need to provide transportation to and from Pacific Crest. If this is something that you would be interested in having your student join, please fill out this form so that we can have an accurate headcount of students. If you have any questions, contact our main office at (541)-355-7804.

School Meals | Free Breakfast & Lunch

All schools in the District qualify for the federal Community Eligibility Provision program. All students are eligible to receive one free breakfast and one free lunch each school day. No application is required. Click here for more information.

Reminder | Bus Transportation

What is PCCO?

You might be asking yourself, “how can I get more involved at my child’s school?” Well the Pacific Crest Community Organization (PCCO) is our parent group at PCMS that teams-up to provide school support in many ways. PCCO organization is akin to a Parent Teacher Association (PTA) or Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) and is a non-profit 501C (tax ID# 47-4312566) which was established many years ago.

In the next several days, a dedicated email message from PCCO will be sent out to families and will provide more specifics on how you can help support our school through donations and volunteering for school events, classroom helpers, field trips and much more. To become an approved volunteer, please visit the Volunteer page on the BLS District website to learn more and to apply.

Interested on being on the PCCO Board in the Secretary position? Please contact Rendy Tucker, PCCO President at [email protected].

In the meantime, follow PCCO via this FaceBook page. PCCO would love to have your suggestions as well.

Golden Eagle Athletics

Students will find a connection to athletic activities in which they can participate and find enjoyment during their middle school careers. We encourage parents to actively support their children in both their academic and athletic pursuits. For information regarding our Fall Athletic programs click this link. Note that Football and Volleyball registration ends in August 30, and Cross Country registration ends September 5.

To become a volunteer for athletics, please follow this link to sign up.

PCMS Spirit Swag!

Golden Eagle Spirit Days are each Friday. Remember to get your spirit on by going to our online store to purchase items. Online store is open Friday, 8/23 – Friday, 9/13.view all items. Below is just a sampling.

Mark your Calendar

  • Aug. 30 | WEB Leader Training, Day 1 | 10:00 – 3:00 | Gym
  • Aug. 30 | Fall Athletic Registration for Football & Volleyball Ends | 5:00
  • Sep. 3 | WEB Leader Training, Day 2: | 10:00 – 3:00 | Gym 
  • Sep. 4 | First Day of School – 6 Grade Students Only | 8:50 – 3:45
  • Sep. 4 | 7 & 8 Grade New Student Orientation | 2:00 – 3:30 (see more info above)
  • Sep. 4 | Football Parent Meeting | 6:00 | Football Field
  • Sep. 5 | First Day of School for all grade levels (see bell schedule above)
  • Sep. 5 | Fall Athletic Registration for Cross-Country Ends | 5:00
  • Sep. 5 | Cross-Country Parent Meeting | 5:00 | Library
  • Sept. 26| School Portrait Day (more to come soon)
  • Sep. 26 | Back to School Night (more to come soon)

Helpful Links

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August 16, 2024

Posted on August 17, 2024 by Sean Keating

Principal’s Hello

Hello, Pacific Crest Families!

I’m excited to write my first message of the school year!

I’m Sean Keating, and I’m principal here at PCMS. I taught high school English for 7 years before moving into administration. I’ve been in middle or high school admin now for 11 years. This will be my 6th year as a middle school principal.

My two kids attend Bend-La Pine Schools, and my wife is a mental health therapist. Both my parents were teachers, and my mother-in-law was a teacher. I feel grateful to work in schools, as the rhythm of the year, student laughter, and classroom culture all bring me joy.

I’m especially grateful to enter my third year with the staff here at PCMS. We had almost zero turnover this year, and we have a ton of fun together. We’re a strong team, and I learn so much from them all the time. Your kids are gonna love it here!

Take care, and see you soon!

Sean

Weekly Communications

It is a goal of PCMS to keep families and students up-to-date and well informed. PCMS will continue to update you each Friday via this weekly blog. With that said, due to the start of the school today’s News from the Nest may seem to be an overwhelming amount of information. We highly encourage you take time to read it.

Student Class Schedules

Student schedules will be accessible via ParentVue and StudentVue on August 30 after 4:00 PM. Please note that the counseling department is still making changes to them and will continue to tweak schedules until September 4. Please wait until that time for accurate viewing. 

Building a master schedule is an intricate process that takes 100’s of hours of work. Even seemingly minor changes can have a dramatic effect. Due to its complexity, we are not accepting any schedule changes. Thank you in advance for your understanding.

First Day of School Schedules

Throughout the District, the first day of school varies by grade level. Grades 1-6 and grade 9 start Wednesday, September 4. Our 6 grade families should have received a Welcome email earlier in the week which included a schedule. Grades 7-8 and 10-12 start Thursday, September 5. Refer to schedules below. This is to give sixth-graders a full day of orientation without other grades be on campus.

BLS Start and End Times (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday)

  • Elementary:  7:45 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. 
  • Middle school: 8:50 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
  • High school: 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
  • Three Rivers School: 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Schools release 90 minutes early, on Wednesdays starting September 11 for staff professional development time. Pacific Crest release time is 2:15 p.m. per our 2024/25 School Schedule.

School Meal Services

Did you hear the scrumptious news? All schools in the District qualify for the federal Community Eligibility Provision program. All students are eligible to receive one free breakfast and one free lunch each school day. No application is required.

Daily menus including nutritional information and allergens can be found on our website: bls.fyi/menu. Parents/guardians of students with special dietary needs may reach out to their school nurse.

Student School Supplies

In Bend-La Pine Schools, all of the materials students need for instruction are provided. Families are welcome to provide personal items such as backpacks, water bottles, and headphones.

If, however, your student would like to choose their own supplies, feel free to purchase them. These are the supplies our teachers typically need students to have:

  • 1 three-ring binder (2.5” or 3”)
  • 1 package of dividers
  • 1 single subject notebook
  • 1 package of three-ring notebook paper
  • 2 lined composition notebooks
  • 1 pencil pouch
  • 1 package of #2 Pencils or mechanical pencil with extra led
  • 1 package of colored pencils
  • 1 pack of pencil cap erasers
  • 1 large pink eraser
  • 2 glue sticks
  • 1 pair of earbuds or headphones

Back-to-School Shopping | District Dress Code

With back-to-school coming up and many of you starting clothes shopping we are asking students and families to take a moment to review and reflect on our district Dress Code Policy. These early conversations will help us be proactive and transparent in understanding school expectations and values, and will set everyone up for success, respect, and safety. 

Within the first few weeks of school your student will participate in reviewing a lesson on the Dress Code. We encourage families to be part of this conversation alongside us! It is important that our whole learning community shares a common understanding and interpretation of the Dress Code in order to ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment. Proactive conversation helps avoid misunderstandings, surprises, or unintended harm later. Thank you for your partnership, and happy shopping! 

Fall Athletic Programs & Registration

Students will find a connection to athletic activities in which they can participate and find enjoyment during their middle school careers. We encourage parents to actively support their children in both their academic and athletic pursuits. For information regarding our Fall Athletic programs click this link. Note that Football and Volleyball registration ends in August 30, and Cross Country registration ends September 5.

To become a volunteer for athletics, please follow this link to sign up.

Annual iPad Insurance

It is highly recommended that families purchase the optional annual iPad insurance for $30 for each of their students with a family cap of $60. Insurance should be purchased PRIOR to the iPad being issued. Insurance is effective for the current school year. iPad insurance can be purchased online (at the beginning of the school year). After this period, iPads must be inspected at the school for damage before insurance can be purchased. Please refer to BLS  iPad Insurance webpage for more information.

Acceptable Use of Technology Agreement

Whether you purchase iPad insurance or not, it is extremely important that all parents and guardians review the Acceptable Use of Technology Agreement to be very clear of the responsibilities of technology usage.

Visitors

Reminder for families that during regular school hours, all visitors to schools must report directly to the school office with a valid drivers license or government issued ID to obtain a visitor badge that must be worn at all times while on campus. All visitors must report to the school office and sign in and out through the visitor management system. Learn more about visitor policy.

Volunteers

We invite our PCMS community members to volunteer for a number of opportunities throughout the school year. To become a volunteer, please refer to the BLS Volunteer webpage for all the details of become a volunteer.

Transportation Registration

Does your student plan to ride the bus this fall? If so, make sure to register them for transportation as soon as possible. This year, only students who are registered will be able to ride the bus (this includes current bus riders as well as new riders). Please log into your ParentVUE account and use the Online Registration tool to walk you through the registration process. If you have questions about accessing your ParentVUE account, please refer to our Online Enrollment Information webpage for detailed information. For more information on transportation eligibility, please refer to the School Buses website for information and links to Bend-La Pine Schools policies.

BLS School Year Calendar

Check out the BLS at-a-glance 2024-25 school year calendar. You may soon or have already have received your copy of the annual BLS Family Handbook & Calendars. If not, check in our main office for a copy.

Become a Classroom Substitute!

Interested in helping students and teachers? The High Desert Education Services District (HDESD) helps find and manage substitute teachers and educational assistants. They are currently looking for qualified individuals. Visit the HDESD website for more information.Get

Mark your Calendar

  • Aug. 23 | Fall Athletic Registration Ends | Football, Volleyball, X-Country | 5:00
  • Aug. 30 | WEB Leader Training, Day 1 | 10:00 – 3:00 | Gym
  • Sep. 3 | WEB Leader Training, Day 2: | 10:00 – 3:00 | Gym 
  • Sep. 4 | First Day of School – 6 Grade Students Only | 8:50 – 3:45
  • Sep. 4 | 7 & 8 Grade New Student Orientation | 2:00 – 3:30 (more to come soon)
  • Sep. 5 | First Day of School for all grade levels (see bell schedule above)
  • Sept. 26| School Portrait Day (more to come soon)
  • Sep. 26 | Back to School Night (more to come soon)

Helpful Links

Posted in News from the Nest | Leave a comment

June 14, 2024

Posted on June 15, 2024 by Sean Keating

Principal’s Hello

Dear Golden Eagle Families,

I sit here in my office at the end of the day. We just said goodbye to our 8th graders at their Promotion ceremony.

Our 8th graders represented kindness, maturity, and positive energy. They made our school better. They were our student leaders, and they contributed to our positive school culture. I will miss them.

I want to end this final message of the school year by thanking you all. Thank you in all the small ways you supported your student that nobody sees: the meal prep, the pep talks, the rides. Thank you for your teamwork. It takes a village, and I appreciate the work we’re doing together.

To our families moving on, good luck. To our families returning in the fall, have a great summer, get some rest, and rejuvenate for the next chapter of our journey together.

With gratitude,

Sean

We did it for Sparrow Bryson!

Learn how PCMS students proudly supported Bryson throughout the school year by clicking on his photo.

Yearbook Distribution an Pick-up

Yearbooks where distributed today during 1st period. If you student was not here to receive their yearbook or has misplaced since receiving it, they should come to the main office between June 17 – 26 or in the Fall starting on August 12 the from the main office.

News from Nutrition Services

We are pleased to announce that due to changes in federal and state regulations, Bend-La Pine School District now qualifies for and will be participating district-wide in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) meal program for the 2024-2025 school year. All students can receive one healthy breakfast and one healthy lunch each school day at no charge to the family and no cost to the school district. No action is required of the families.

Nos complace anunciar que, debido a los cambios en las regulaciones federales y estatales, el Distrito Escolar de Bend-La Pine entero ahora califica y participará en el programa de comidas de Provisión de Elegibilidad Comunitaria (por sus siglas en inglés: CEP) para el año escolar 2024-2025. Cada estudiante podrá recibir un desayuno y almuerzo saludables cada día escolar sin costo para la familia y sin costo para el distrito escolar. No se requiere ninguna acción por parte de las familias.

PCMS School Health Team Promotes Health through Family Health Education!

Did you know that PCMS launched a School Health Team this year?  The School Health Team’s goal is to improve school-wide health among students, staff, and families by focusing on three priority areas: student belonging and engagement; staff health promotion; and family engagement and communication on health topics.

One of the ways we do this is by hosting family education nights on health-related topics and sharing resources in the newsletter. This year, we focused on executive function, digital/online safety, and parenting strategies around teen development and their changing brains. We also shared information in the ‘News from the Nest’ newsletter throughout the year on important health topics.  

In post-training surveys, 100% of respondents said that: “This training improved my knowledge of this topic.” And, “As a result of this training, I have at least two new tools and/or strategies to try at home.” 

Now, we’d like to hear from you through a short survey. Your feedback will help us plan family night presentations and other resources for next year!

Complete the SURVEY HERE.

Thank you for helping us make our school health program impactful and relevant to our PCMS families!

Register Now! Summit Youth Girls Basketball Camp

  • Camp Dates: June 19 – 21
  • Time: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Cost: $75.00 (pay online)
  • Grades: 4th – 8th

Click on this flyer for more information and to register!

FREE Mental Health Classes

Click here for more info and to register.

Calendar of Events | Mark your Calendar

  • June 17 | 8th Grade Field Day
  • June 18 | 6th & 7th Grade Field Day Activities | Released at 2:15 PM

Helpful Links

Posted in News from the Nest | Leave a comment

June 7, 2024

Posted on June 7, 2024 by Sean Keating

Principal’s Hello

Happy Friday Golden Eagle Families!

We’re getting close! If your 8th grader is attending Promotion this coming Friday, June 14, please be here no later than 5:45 PM. The ceremony begins at 6:00 PM!

Please be sure your student “dresses the part.” We don’t want students to feel uncomfortable, but we’d like them to learn that how we dress honors an occasion, and that our attire choices reflect our attitudes. We view Promotion as an important ceremony and milestone. As such, we will be dressing up a bit. A dress or dress shirt and trousers is perfect. Again, your student should feel comfortable. The outfit does not need to be fancy. It’s Bend after all!

Finally, for 8th graders, we have a Field Day planned for them on Monday, June 17. The following day, Tuesday, will be a Field Day for our 6th and 7th graders. 8TH GRADE ATTENDANCE IS OPTIONAL. If any 8th graders choose to attend this day, we will put them to work helping with Field Day for the 6th and 7th graders.

It’s been a joy watching students complete final projects and take final tests seriously. Our students, by and large, are following our routines, rules, expectations, and norms. We are finishing strong as a community.

Thank you so much for your teamwork!

Sean

Volunteer Opportunities

As the end of the school year nears, so do our Field Days! We will have our 8th grade Field Day on Monday, June 17th, and our 6th & 7th grade Field Day on Tuesday, June 18th. We have planned many fun outside interactive games for our students to enjoy. To make certain that both field days are a successful, safe and loads of fun we need several volunteers. Please follow this link to sign up to help us!

Important | iPad roll-in for all grades

We are collecting all iPads, iPad cases, original-issue bricks and cords on the following two days. Students must fully charge and update their iPad before they return it. Our 8th graders will turn their tech items listed below on Thursday, June 13th. Our 6th and 7th graders will turn their tech items listed below on Friday, June 14th. These items will be returned to 7th & 8th grade students in the Fall upon returning to PCMS. Please note the fines below.

Students will return the following original-issue items to avoid fines:

  • iPad: must be fully charged and updated before it is turned in
  • iPad Case: $18 fine if not in good condition; with ability to view BLS barcode on back
  • Brick: $20 fine for lost brick
  • Cord: $12 fine for lost cord

Important | End of the Year Student Medication Pick-up

The end of the school year is fast approaching. We want to ensure that your student’s leftover medication is safely returned to your home. All medications kept at school must be picked up at school by a parent/guardian on or before June 18.

  • Schools cannot retain medication for students over the summer.
  • Any medication not picked up by June 18 will be disposed.
  • Students are not permitted to transport medications home.
  • Medications must be picked up by a parent/guardian. This includes all prescription and non- prescription medications (including inhalers and epinephrine pens).
  • If you are unable to pick up your student’s medication by June 18, please contact Nurse Oliver at 541-355-6922.

Recordatorio de Medicamentos de Fin de Año Escola

El final del año escolar se acerca rápidamente. Queremos asegurarnos de que los medicamentos sobrantes de su estudiante se devuelvan de manera segura a su hogar. Todos los medicamentos guardados en la escuela deben ser recogidos en la escuela por un padre/tutor antes del 18 de Junio.

  • Las escuelas no pueden retener medicamentos para los estudiantes durante el verano.
  • Cualquier medicamento que no se recoja antes del 18-6-2024 será desechado.
  • No se permite que los estudiantes transporten medicamentos a casa.
  • Los medicamentos deben ser recogidos por un padre/tutor. Esto incluye todos los medicamentos recetados y sin receta (incluidos inhaladores y plumas de epinefrina).
  • Si no puede recoger el medicamento de su estudiante antes del 18 de junio, comuníquese con la enfermera, Oliver, al 541-355-6922.

Lost & Found Goes Bye-Bye!

Ask your kids to check lost and found to claim their items. Whatever unclaimed items remain at the end of the day on Tuesday, June 18 will be donated to a local charity.

News from Nutrition Services

We are pleased to announce that due to changes in federal and state regulations, Bend-La Pine School District now qualifies for and will be participating district-wide in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) meal program for the 2024-2025 school year. All students can receive one healthy breakfast and one healthy lunch each school day at no charge to the family and no cost to the school district. No action is required of the families.

Nos complace anunciar que, debido a los cambios en las regulaciones federales y estatales, el Distrito Escolar de Bend-La Pine entero ahora califica y participará en el programa de comidas de Provisión de Elegibilidad Comunitaria (por sus siglas en inglés: CEP) para el año escolar 2024-2025. Cada estudiante podrá recibir un desayuno y almuerzo saludables cada día escolar sin costo para la familia y sin costo para el distrito escolar. No se requiere ninguna acción por parte de las familias.

Golden Eagle Athletics

Our athletics department is gearing up for fall sports! Registration for all sports will open on July 22nd. PCMS 7th and 8th grade football will begin with a 4 day camp on August 19th, with official practices beginning on August 26th. More information will be provided as the fall sports season nears.

Sources of Strength

A group of 8th grade students have been working all year on a program called Sources of Strength. This is a preventative suicide program that emphasizes the different areas of strength that all students have. The program focuses on 8 different areas of strength: family support, positive friendships, mentors, healthy activities, generosity, spirituality, physical health, and mental health. The students worked hard to complete three campaigns throughout the year. The first was to present at an all-staff training and share the program with staff. The second was to work on a week of advisory slides to share with the student body information about the program. The final campaign focused on an aspect of spirituality which is the practice of sharing gratitude. They did this by having all students share the things that they are grateful for on a yellow feather and then taking all of those feathers (0ver 500!) and creating an art installation. This was our first year running the program and we learned a lot! We are excited to see what we will be able to accomplish next year!

Calendar of Events | Mark your Calendar

  • June 12 | Correction: Early Release Day | 8:50 AM – 2:15 PM
  • June 13 | 8th Grade iPad Roll-in | see info above
  • June 14 | 6th & 7th Grade iPad Roll-in | see info above
  • June 14 | 8th Grade Promotion to High School | Leaving the Nest
  • June 17 | 8th Grade Field Day (Last Required School Day for 8th Graders)
  • June 18 | 6th & 7th Grade Field Day Activities | Released at 2:15 PM (8th Grade Attendance OPTIONAL)

Helpful Links

Posted in News from the Nest | Leave a comment

May 31, 2024

Posted on May 31, 2024 by Sean Keating

Principal’s Hello

Hello Golden Eagle Families!

We had another awesome week in The Nest. Last night we hosted hundreds of students and family members for 5th Grade Family Night, we brought back our 8th Grade Science Fair, and we opened our Gold Mine Student Store 3 times while also hosting student-led pizza parties every day this week.

We want to run hard through the finish line, continuing our routines until the final bell on the final day. Please set this same expectation at home so our students finish strong. Our lives are easier when we paddle together. This is a mantra with our staff.

Enjoy your weekends with family and friends!

Sean

Important | End of the Year Student Medication Pick-up

The end of the school year is fast approaching. We want to ensure that your student’s leftover medication is safely returned to your home. All medications kept at school must be picked up at school by a parent/guardian on or before June 18.

  • Schools cannot retain medication for students over the summer.
  • Any medication not picked up by June 18 will be disposed.
  • Students are not permitted to transport medications home.
  • Medications must be picked up by a parent/guardian. This includes all prescription and non- prescription medications (including inhalers and epinephrine pens).
  • If you are unable to pick up your student’s medication by June 18, please contact Nurse Oliver at 541-355-6922.

Recordatorio de Medicamentos de Fin de Año Escola

El final del año escolar se acerca rápidamente. Queremos asegurarnos de que los medicamentos sobrantes de su estudiante se devuelvan de manera segura a su hogar. Todos los medicamentos guardados en la escuela deben ser recogidos en la escuela por un padre/tutor antes del 18 de Junio.

  • Las escuelas no pueden retener medicamentos para los estudiantes durante el verano.
  • Cualquier medicamento que no se recoja antes del 18-6-2024 será desechado.
  • No se permite que los estudiantes transporten medicamentos a casa.
  • Los medicamentos deben ser recogidos por un padre/tutor. Esto incluye todos los medicamentos recetados y sin receta (incluidos inhaladores y plumas de epinefrina).
  • Si no puede recoger el medicamento de su estudiante antes del 18 de junio, comuníquese con la enfermera, Oliver, al 541-355-6922.

Sparrow Community Service

Today, May 31, is the last day to enter any community service hours to help support Sparrow Bryson. Use the QR code below and thank you!

8th Grade Science Fair

This past Wednesday evening the eighth-grade students concluded their science and engineering project unit with a science fair to display their learning. Here is what one person had to say:

“The students’ projects were so impressive! Making a battery out of lemons, how color affects taste, what’s the best amount of baking powder to use for fluffy cookies, how to get the best stretch in slime, and even “Are 8th graders smarter than teachers” (the data showed YES 😉) were just a few of the topics covered. 

The event was well attended, and students were excited to show their posters to their families and parents/guardians were so proud of their kids. You could tell that this 4-week project really sparked and showcased the students’ curiosity and enthusiasm for science.”

Ms. Crabtree and Mr. Segesta thank all parents and families for supporting this endeavor.

Parent/Caregiver Survey on Health-related Topics

Please take our quick survey!  Pacific Crest’s School Health Team would like to hear from you about what health-related topics are most relevant to you. Your feedback will help us plan family night presentations and other resources for next year! Complete the SURVEY HERE.

Thank you for helping us make our school health program impactful and relevant to our PCMS families!

Volunteer Opportunities

As the end of the school year nears, so do our Field Days! We will have our 8th grade Field Day on Monday, June 17th, and our 6th & 7th grade Field Day on Tuesday, June 18th. We have planned many fun outside interactive games for our students to enjoy. To make certain that both field days are a successful, safe and loads of fun we need several volunteers. Please follow this link to sign up to help us!

Calendar of Events | Mark your Calendar

  • May 31 | Last Day to Log Sparrow Community Service Hours
  • June 1 | Ten Friends 5K Color Run (flyer)
  • June 4 | Spring Arts Showcase | 6:30 – 8:00 PM
  • June 12 | Correction: Early Release Day | 8:50 AM – 2:15 PM
  • June 14 | 8th Grade Promotion to High School | Leaving the Nest
  • June 18 | Last Day of School w/Field Day Activities | Released at 2:15 PM

Helpful Links

Posted in News from the Nest | Leave a comment

May 24, 2024

Posted on May 24, 2024 by Sean Keating

Principal’s Hello

Dear Golden Eagle Families,

We saw some great learning this week! In Art, students created sets for their short films. In music, students prepared pieces for the June 4 Spring Arts Showcase. And in math, students completed their state exams.

This week we also addressed some student behavior. We’re now eating lunches inside because of litter outside. This litter, including insidious plastic straw wrappers that blow everywhere, makes our school look trashy.

I also feel that a sloppy setting promotes sloppy behavior. And all this trash builds up in our local ecosystem, which is bad for wildlife.

After students finish eating lunch and throw away their trash inside, they may go outside to play and get some fresh air on a clean, litter-free playground.

Have a nice Memorial Day Weekend with your family.

Sean

Golden Eagle Athletics

After winning districts last week, the PCMS Golden Eagles SHOWED UP yesterday at the Meet of Champions in Corvallis! The day was jam packed with non-stop action for our team and it proved to be our best showing yet. There are so many moments I wish I could share with you all from the day but I will do my best to get it concise here in this recap… warning there are lots of exclamation points to follow!

  • We had 9 boys and 15 girls qualify and compete this year → 24 kids! 
  • Pacific Crest has TWO STATE CHAMPIONS! We had an athlete place first in the boys 400m race with a 52.71 PR! And another first place winner in the boys 3000m race with a PR 9:28.52! Hours later, he earned 4th in state at the 1500m race with another PR performance at 4:24.88!
  • We had another athlete PR in prelims at the girls 100m Hurdles and then again in the finals earning 3rd place in state with a time of 16.13!
  • We qualified 4 relay teams; both our 7th and 8th grade girls 4×100 team and both our boys and girls 4×400 teams! Our 8th grade girls ran a 51.96 and took 4th in state! Our 7th grade girls PR’d running a 52.88 (11th overall!) The girls 4×400 ran a blistering PR 4:23.37 taking 8th in state! The boys 4×400 ran a 3:59.01, a season best!
  • Our single competitor in the field events threw for 6th place in Shot Put!
  • We had over 10 athletes who PR’d!
  • Our boys team earned 28 points and took 3rd overall in state!
  • Our girls team earned 12 points and took 13th overall in state!

GO GOLDEN EAGLES!!! 

– Coach Wallace

Students On Other Campuses

Please remind your students that after school hours all school campuses are closed. Some of our students have been entering/trespassing onto nearby school campuses. This is not allowed, and we want to be good neighbors. Just like we wouldn’t want students from another school trespassing onto our campus and messing things up, we don’t want to do that same thing to another school.

8th Grade Science Fair

Our 8th grade students will be sharing science projects on Wednesday, May 29 from 6:00 – 7:30 PM. Stop by and see the 80 plus exhibit boards of different science and engineering projects students have been working on over the past four weeks. Contact Deidre Crabtree at [email protected] if you have questions.

Spring Arts Showcase

Please join us for the Pacific Crest Middle School Spring Arts Showcase on Tuesday, June 4. The visual art gallery will open at 6:30 PM in the Nest with music performances (band, choir, and orchestra) in the Gym beginning at 7:00 PM. This is our “Golden Era” featuring music and art pieces showcasing all things pop culture. We hope to see you there to celebrate all the amazing work these students have done. Refreshments and mingling to follow.

8th Grade Promotion Ceremony

All 8th grade families should have received another email invite earlier today with specifics. If you have any questions, please contact Deb Mullen at [email protected] or (541) 355-7801.

Summit High School Boys Volleyball Team

Interested in playing boys volleyball at Summit? Stop by Mountain Burger and meet the team and ask them any questions you might have on Wednesday, May 29 from 6:00 – 7:00 PM.

Great Event | Ten Friends 5K Color Run

Kids and adults are welcome to join this special event hosted by the Summit High School Interact Club to raise funds for Ten Friends, a nonprofit organization based in Sisters that supports a variety of projects in Nepal. There are typically 200-250 people who participate at this event and it is truly a memorable one.

Calendar of Events | Mark your Calendar

  • May 27 | Memorial Day | No School
  • May 29 | 8th Grade Science Fair | 6:00 – 7:30 PM
  • May 30 | 5th Grade Family Night | 6:00 – 8:00 PM
  • May 31 | Last Day to Log Sparrow Community Service Hours
  • June 1 | Ten Friends 5K Color Run (flyer)
  • June 4 | Spring Arts Showcase
  • June 12 | Correction: Early Release Day| 8:50 AM – 2:15 PM
  • June 14 | 8th Grade Promotion to High School | Leaving the Nest
  • June 18 | Last Day of School w/Field Day Activities (OPTIONAL for 8th graders)| Released at 2:15 PM

Helpful Links

Posted in News from the Nest | Leave a comment

May 17, 2024

Posted on May 17, 2024 by Sean Keating

Principal’s Hello

Hello, Golden Eagle Families!

I hope you had as good a week as we did! We conducted field studies at Skyliners, continued our 8th grade science fair, and fielded many track stars who achieved personal records at the District Track and Field Meet!

The weather, as you know, has been great, so we’ve got a ton of kids playing outside during lunch, which is awesome.

Now we’re starting to gear up for some end-of-year fun, including 5th Grade Family Night, 8th Grade Promotion, and our two field days. It’s an exciting time of the school year!

I’m sure I’ll see many of you at the 3v3 soccer tourney this weekend!

Sean

Don’t Forget Sparrow Bryson

As mentioned in a previous email, fundraising has been going well for Sparrow Bryson, but there is more to do. Please remind your child to enter all of their 2023/24 community service hours, by Friday, May 31st. One hour of service equates to $10 dollars for our Sparrow with the support of many local businesses. All hours should be recorded via the QR code below or by clicking here. It is super important that your student records their hours by May 31st.

Great Family Opportunity! Host an Exchange Student this Fall

Open your hearts and homes to a Middle School Japanese Exchange Student from Toyota City, Japan! From September 22nd to September 29th, these students will be visiting Bend, and we’re seeking 28 families to welcome them into our community warmly.

As a host family, you’ll play a crucial role in providing these students with a memorable experience of student life in Bend. Your hospitality will include offering accommodations and transportation to and from PCMS. If you’re interested in becoming a host family, please take a moment to fill out this interest form. We’ll provide you with further details shortly. Thank you immensely for considering this opportunity to make a meaningful impact and foster cultural exchange.

Final Reminder: Purchase Yearbook!

These high quality yearbooks are published by Herff Jones and include hard covers and 40+ full color pages packed full of memories. A yearbook costs $22.00 and should be purchased online via our TouchBase payment system. You will enter your student’s ID number and last name; click on “fines & fees”; click on “items at PCMS”, click on “yearbook items” and click items you want to purchase. If you wish to purchase with cash or check (made payable to PCMS), deliver it to the main office. Wondering if you purchased a book? You can aways log into TouchBase and check your student account history or contact Deb Mullen at [email protected] or (541) 355-7801.

Yearbook Donations

Thank you to those who have donated funds to help us reach PCMS’s equity goal to insure all students enjoy taking home a book of middle school memories. We are still accepting donations. Please consider a suggested contribution of $22. Donate via our online TouchBase payment system.

Final Reminder: Lost and Found

All students should start checking lost and found for misplaced belongings and do so before June 18…last day of school. Please note that ALL remaining items will be donated to local charities at the end of the day on June 18.

Calendar of Events | Mark your Calendar

  • May 27 | Memorial Day | School Holiday
  • May 29 | 8th Grade Science Fair | 6:00 – 7:30 PM
  • May 30 | 5th Grade Family Night | 6:00 – 8:00 PM
  • May 31 | Last Day to Log Sparrow Community Service Hours
  • June 12 | Correction: Early Release Day| 8:50 AM – 2:15 PM
  • June 14 | 8th Grade Promotion to High School | Leaving the Nest
  • June 18 | Last Day of School w/field Day Activities (OPTIONAL for 8th graders)| Released at 2:15 PM

Helpful Links

Posted in News from the Nest | Leave a comment

May 10, 2024

Posted on May 10, 2024 by Sean Keating

Principal’s Hello

Hello PCMS Families!

Welcome to the sunshine, the reason so many of us moved out here from Portland! (Sorry, Bendites.)

We had a great week. Our 6th graders studied water quality at Mirror Pond. Our 8th graders finished their state science tests. And our track stars competed at the final regular meet of the season.

We recently reviewed our YouthTruth survey data. In a total of 16 categories, we improved in 14, including a 29-point gain in School Safety, a 17-point gain in Staff Culture, and a 14-point gain in Family Engagement. We also scored in the top quartile, nationally, for Student Belonging.

Our weak points are students feeling academically challenged and staff getting relevant professional development. We’re working as a staff to build on our strengths and redress our weaknesses.

This includes more discussion about how we use iPads. How can we use iPads to make kids think more? Engagement, rigor, and critical thinking are not natural byproducts of convenience culture. We shouldn’t be using a tool merely for convenience.

Any tool we introduce MUST help our students a) engage with teachers, peers, and content, b) think deeply about solutions to complex problems, and c) produce work aligned to grade-level state standards.

Our instructional leadership team continues to wrestle with ideas about professional development for their colleagues. Doctors, firefighters, and police officers deserve and attend career-long professional development that helps them improve. Our teachers deserve the same treatment. As principal, I’m committed to making this better for our teaching force.

Sean

A Huge Thank You!

Due to you, our Pacific Crest Community Organization (PCCO, same at PTA), the PCMS staff enjoyed a wonderful week of appreciation. We want to thank our PCCO board for organizing and spoiling us with coffee and pastries at the beginning of the week, delicious bundt cakes, a mid-week snack buffet and today’s catered lunch from Longboard Louies.

REMINDER! Important Message | Student Early Release

We are still getting a lot of last minute calls from folks who want immediate action when needing to pull their student early for one reason or another, so here is another reminder. Help us help you! If your student needs to be released from school early, it is critical that you contact the Attendance Office at least 30 minutes before you need your student released. Email [email protected] or call 541-355-7820 and leave a message. Rest assured your message will get picked up within several minutes and a note will be delivered to your student. No need to call any other line. If you call any other line, you will be transferred to the attendance message line. We thank for your understanding of this process.

If you require your student to be released within 30 minutes, please visit the attendance window to make your request. Thank you.

Math Bypass Test for 6th & 7th Graders

Is your student excelling in math or has your child talked about wanting more of a challenge in math?  Maybe the class teacher has indicated your child should take a placement level test for math next year? This FAQ is designed to answer most of the questions that parents have regarding this process. 

This assessment will be given at PCMS on June 4th. It will be given the first part of their day while iPads are still fully charged. PCMS will coordinate the testing, so you do not need to do anything but be sure that your student’s iPad is charged the night before. The assessment will take your student approximately 60-120  minutes

*** Please register your student HERE to take the assessment on June 4th at PCMS. Registration will close on Friday, May 24th 

Are you caring for a child in 4th – 10th grade?

Deschutes County Health Services is looking for your feedback to help us provide information and programs around topics like substance use and mental health. Take our anonymous 20-minute survey! The first 85 participants will receive a $15 gift card. Survey link (available in English and Spanish): https://bit.ly/3VS0gVu. 

2024 Summer Meals

Click here for English and Spanish informational flyers.

Calendar of Events | Mark your Calendar

  • May 27 | Memorial Day | School Holiday
  • May 29 | 8th Grade Science Fair | 6:00 – 7:30 PM
  • May 30 | 5th Grade Family Night | 6:00 – 8:00 PM
  • May 31 | Last Day to Log Sparrow Community Service Hours
  • June 12 | School in Session all day | 8:50 AM – 3:45 PM
  • June 14 | 8th Grade Promotion to High School | Leaving the Nest
  • June 18 | Last Day of School w/field Day Activities (OPTIONAL for 8th graders)| Released at 2:15 PM

Helpful Links

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