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Principal's Message

The 2026–2027 School Year Is Officially Here

Dear Panther Community,

Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year at Pleasanton Middle School!

I hope your summer was filled with opportunities to rest, recharge, spend time with family and friends, and create lasting memories. As August arrives, there is a special sense of excitement in the air. Hallways that have been relatively quiet all summer are about to be filled once again with laughter, learning, curiosity, and the incredible energy that only our Panther students can bring. We are absolutely thrilled to welcome each of you back for what promises to be another outstanding year.

One of the greatest joys of a new school year is welcoming new members into our Panther Family. Please join me in extending a warm Pleasanton Middle School welcome to:

  • Ashley Green – Assistant Principal

  • Natasha Wanis – School Attendance Secretary

  • Noelle Balagtas – Education Specialist

We are excited to have them join our team and know they will make a tremendous impact on our students, staff, and families.

Our campus continues to evolve, and we are excited about several improvements that will enhance the student experience. This year, we look forward to the installation of new bleachers along the west side of Panther Park, creating an even better space for our students, families, and community to gather and cheer on our Panthers. In addition, the grass area adjacent to the pickleball courts will be transformed with new turf, providing additional usable outdoor space for students to enjoy throughout the school day. Lastly, new skylights have been installed in our gallery and library rooftops. Not only will these skylights instantly make this area of our school more energy efficient, it has significantly brightened up the area!

These improvements are another reflection of the continued investment in Pleasanton Middle School and our commitment to providing an exceptional learning environment for every student.

While new facilities are exciting, the true heart of Pleasanton Middle School has always been our people. We are incredibly fortunate to have one of the most talented, dedicated, and compassionate staffs anywhere. Every single day, our teachers, counselors, classified professionals, office staff, custodians, food service team, instructional assistants, campus supervisors, and administrators come to school with one purpose, to serve students and help them thrive.

PMS is special because everyone is embraced, everyone is valued, and everyone is heard. That is not simply a phrase, it is who we are. It is reflected in the relationships we build, the support we provide, and the sense of belonging we strive to create for every member of our school community.

Our mission extends beyond academics. We are committed to developing confident learners, compassionate citizens, and resilient young people who embody our PRIDE values of Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Discipline, and Excellence. Together, we will continue building a school culture where every student feels safe, connected, challenged, and inspired to become the very best version of themselves.

Important Back-to-School Dates

Wednesday, August 12, 4–5 PM

6th Grade & New Student Campus Walk-Through

Students who are new to Pleasanton Middle School, along with their parents and guardians, are invited to participate in a self-guided campus walk-through. While our buildings will remain closed, families will have an opportunity to become familiar with the campus layout and help students feel comfortable before the first day of school.

Thursday, August 13: First Day of School!

  • A Period: 7:56 AM

  • Period 1: 8:50 AM (First bell 8:46am)

  • Dismissal: 3:05 PM

Please help us begin the year safely by arriving on time and exercising patience and caution during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up.

As a reminder, non-employees are not permitted on campus during the school day. We kindly ask parents and guardians to say their goodbyes at the entrance gates. Our staff will be throughout campus, ready to welcome, guide, and support every student as they begin their first day.

As we prepare to open our doors once again, I am filled with gratitude for this remarkable community. Thank you for your continued partnership, trust, and support. Shout out to our fabulous PTSA, spearheaded by president Jaime Mangiola, who have demonstrated that their number one objective is to make us the best middle school on earth (mission accomplished). Together, we will create another year filled with meaningful learning, lasting friendships, unforgettable experiences, and countless reasons to celebrate.

On behalf of our entire Pleasanton Middle School staff, welcome back! We cannot wait to see our Panthers on campus and begin another incredible journey together.

Here's to an amazing 2026–2027 school year!

Yours in community,

Marco A. Lopez
Principal
Pleasanton Middle School