Week Nine: October 12th - 16th

October in Overdrive!

* At DRA, we are SHARP-minded! SHARP stands for Self-Efficacy, Honor, Acceptance, Responsibility, and Perseverance—shared values that guide how we learn, treat others, and face challenges. We believe in our ability to grow, do what’s right, help others belong, own our choices, and keep trying through challenges. Together, we practice SHARP every day so every Diamondback can thrive.

* Please talk with your student about respectful language and behavior at school. Racial and homophobic slurs—including the N-word, “fag,” and using “gay” as an insult—are unacceptable in verbal or written messages. The N-word is offensive and unacceptable whether it ends in “-er” or “-ga.” Saying “We’re friends” or “I was joking” does not excuse this language.

The same applies to hitting, pushing, kicking, or other unwanted physical contact. Calling it “playing” does not make it acceptable. Students who engage in these behaviors will receive referrals and progressive discipline. Every Diamondback deserves to feel safe and respected.

* October is Bullying Prevention Month. Our counselors are visiting Social Studies classes to teach a Bullying Prevention guidance lesson, helping students recognize bullying, speak up, and support one another. Together, we can make DRA a place where every Diamondback feels safe and included.

* The first quarter ends this week! Crazy! The last day of the first quarter is Thursday, October 15th. Check your StudentVUE and ParentVUE for grades and missing work.

* All DSUSD schools will participate in the Great California ShakeOut on Thursday, October 15. Students will practice “Drop, Cover, and Hold” followed by an evacuation drill to strengthen earthquake preparedness.

* There is no school for students on Friday, October 16th. This is a Professional Development day for DSUSD staff.

* Join us on Tuesday, October 13, from 6:30–7:30 p.m. for our Intermediate Band Fall Concert. Come enjoy an evening of music and cheer on our talented Diamondback musicians!

* Sunflower seeds are no longer allowed on campus, including during lunch. Students have been spitting shells on classroom floors and campus grounds, as well as spitting and throwing seeds at others, creating messes and disruptions. Sunflower seeds will be confiscated and returned only to an adult. Please help us keep DRA clean and respectful by leaving them at home.

* Calling all girls in grades 6–8! Join Desert Sands Unified School District for Tech and Tiaras on Saturday, October 24, from 8:00–11:45 a.m. at the DEC North Building. This exciting event offers a morning filled with technology, innovation, and fun. We encourage our Diamondbacks to explore their interests and discover new possibilities! Register at: bit.ly/TandT102426

* Join us for DRA Saturday Spectacular on Saturday, October 24, from 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. All students are welcome to enjoy hands-on STEM activities while earning four hours of attendance credit to make up past absences or bank for future ones. Register here by Friday, October 23!

* DRA will have a uniform-free day on Friday, October 30, and students may wear a costume if they choose! All clothing and costumes must be appropriate for school and allow students to participate in learning. Masks may not be worn in classrooms and must be removed at staff request for safety or identification purposes. Aerosol sprays and weapons of any kind—including fake or look-alike weapons—are not permitted. Administration will determine costume appropriateness. Let’s enjoy a fun day while keeping safety, respect, and academics our priorities!

* Consistent with all DSUSD middle schools, cell phones must remain put away gate to gate, including lunch. Passing periods are also screen-free—no cell phones or Chromebooks—so students can transition safely and connect with one another. Chromebooks are allowed during lunch to catch up on schoolwork or to play age-appropriate, district-approved games. We encourage face-to-face connections while offering this flexibility to the small number of students who use it.

* Our counselors will join Social Studies classes every other Wednesday to teach SHARP Guidance Lessons, helping students put our schoolwide values into practice through everyday choices, relationships, and challenges.

* DRA will celebrate Red Ribbon Week, October 23–31, with the theme “Make a Difference. Be a Hero. Stay Drug Free.” We encourage Diamondbacks to make healthy choices and support one another. Families, talk with your student about staying drug and alcohol free to protect their health and future.

* We truly appreciate the laundry detergent pods, bottled water, and Otter Pops donated this week! We’re still collecting these items, so if you’re in the shopping mood, please keep DRA in mind. Thank you for supporting our Diamondbacks!

* Please encourage your child to check the Lost and Found table before leaving campus each Friday. Unclaimed items may be donated or discarded. Please note that DRA and its staff are not responsible for items that are lost, damaged, left behind, donated, or discarded.

Be SHARP in all you do! Thanks for reading!

Week Eight: October 5th - 9th

Onward in October!

* Fall Picture Day is Tuesday, October 6th. All students must wear their DRA uniform for fall pictures because these photos will be used in the yearbook. Families who wish to purchase a photo package can preorder using the information on the flyer. Spring pictures will be uniform-free for students who purchase a package.

* Our ELOP middle school sports season begins this week! DRA will host La Quinta Middle School on Tuesday, October 6, at 3:00 p.m. for co-ed volleyball and boys basketball. Come cheer on our student-athletes as they represent DRA with teamwork, sportsmanship, and Diamondback pride. Go, Diamondbacks!

* DRA’s Advanced Band will participate in the Indio High School Band Spectacular on Saturday, October 10, from 6:00–7:00 p.m. We are proud to see our Diamondbacks share their musical talents with the community!

* There is no school for students on Friday, October 16th. This is a Professional Development day for DSUSD staff.

* School-issued Chromebooks are subject to monitoring both on and off campus, including outside school hours. Please talk with your child about using their Chromebook appropriately and avoiding searches or typed content involving inappropriate words or images. Our security department receives alerts when inappropriate activity is flagged. Students who violate our technology agreement may lose their Chromebook privileges. Thank you for helping reinforce responsible technology use.

* DRA will celebrate Red Ribbon Week, October 23–31, with this year’s theme: “Make a Difference. Be a Hero. Stay Drug Free.” We encourage our Diamondbacks to make healthy choices, support one another, and recognize that everyday actions can make a positive difference. Families, take a moment to talk with your student about staying drug and alcohol free and making choices that protect their health and future.

* We strictly enforce our policy prohibiting aerosol body sprays and glass bottles of cologne or perfume at school, especially in locker rooms. These products can trigger allergies and asthma, cause discomfort for students who are sensitive to scents, and pose safety concerns. We encourage students to keep deodorant in their lockers instead. If an aerosol can or glass bottle is confiscated, a parent or guardian must pick it up; it will not be returned to the student.

* School Board Policy prohibits students from selling items at school, including personal items, candy, snacks, treats, soda, and other goods. Items offered for sale will be confiscated and will not be returned to students. Students who violate this policy will receive disciplinary consequences. Please review this expectation with your child and remind them to leave items intended for sale at home.

* Riding the school bus is a privilege, not a right. Please talk with your child about displaying SHARP behaviors while riding, including following the driver’s directions, remaining seated, speaking respectfully, and keeping hands and belongings to themselves. These expectations help maintain a safe environment for students and drivers. Thank you for helping our Diamondbacks travel safely!

* Breakfast and lunch drop-offs are not accepted at the front office. Food may not be passed to students through campus gates, and food delivery services such as DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub are not permitted. Office staff will not call students out of class to pick up meals. Every student is eligible for free school breakfast and lunch, so please plan ahead if your child prefers to bring food from home.

Be SHARP in all you do! Thanks for reading!

Week Seven: Sept. 28th - Oct. 2nd

So Long September, On to October!

* At DRA, we are SHARP-minded. SHARP stands for Self-Efficacy, Honor, Acceptance, Responsibility, and Perseverance. We adopted these values to give students, staff, and families a shared understanding of how we learn, treat one another, and face challenges. Being SHARP means believing in your ability to grow, doing the right thing, helping others feel they belong, taking responsibility for your choices, and continuing to try when things get difficult. We practice these values every day as we work to make DRA a place where every Diamondback can thrive.

* September is Suicide Prevention Month. This week, our counselors are leading age-appropriate activities that promote mental health, connection, and the importance of seeking help. We want every Diamondback to know they matter, they belong, and support is available when they need it. If you or someone you know needs immediate support, call or text 988.

*** Monday, September 28th — Creating Awareness: During breakfast in front of the Snake Pit, students can visit the Heart of Hope and Positive Self-Talk Flower activities. Counselors will also share positive affirmations and information about recognizing signs that someone may need support.

*** Wednesday, September 30th — Spread Some Pawsitivity: At lunch, students can write a positive message on a paw print. Their paw print will be their admission to meet Budders the Therapy Dog!

*** Friday, October 2nd — Pause, Breathe & Reset: During breakfast in front of the Snake Pit, counselors will share resources on mental health, coping skills, and breathing techniques.

* September is Deaf Awareness Month! DRA is proud to have a Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) program on our campus. As the month comes to a close, we continue to celebrate Deaf culture, practice inclusive communication, and show our SHARP value of Acceptance by helping everyone feel valued and included.

* We will have an English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC) meeting on Monday, September 28th at 3:45 p.m. in the office conference room. ELAC meetings are open to the public; however, only elected members may vote on agenda items.

* On Friday, October 2nd, senior football players, cheerleaders, ASB seniors, and band members from Shadow Hills High School (SHHS) will visit DRA during lunch. Our Diamondbacks will have a chance to meet them, play some football, hear the fight song, and take pictures. We’re excited to bring back this tradition and celebrate the connection between our two schools!

* Effective immediately, students should leave squishies and similar novelty items at home. These items have disrupted learning, led to arguments and altercations, and created messes when popped. Thank you for helping us keep classrooms and campus safe, clean, and focused. If your child uses an item as part of an IEP or 504 Plan, please contact the school so we can review the plan and provide appropriate support.

* Beginning Monday, September 28, we will strictly enforce our policy prohibiting aerosol body sprays and glass bottles of cologne or perfume at school, especially in locker rooms. These products can trigger allergies and asthma, cause discomfort for students who are sensitive to scents, and pose safety concerns. We encourage students to keep deodorant in their lockers instead. If an aerosol can or glass bottle is confiscated, a parent or guardian must pick it up; it will not be returned to the student.

* Breakfast and lunch drop-offs are not accepted at the front office, and food may not be passed to students through campus gates or delivered by outside services. Office staff will not call students out of class to pick up meals. Every student is eligible for free school breakfast and lunch, so please plan ahead if your child prefers to bring food from home.

* We are excited for the 2nd Annual Tech and Tiaras event for girls in grades 4–8! This engaging morning of technology, innovation, and hands-on learning will take place on Saturday, October 24, from 8:00–11:45 a.m. It is a wonderful opportunity for our DRA students to explore technology, discover new interests, and have fun. Stay tuned for registration information!

* There is no school for students on Friday, October 16th. This is a Professional Development day for DSUSD staff.

Be SHARP in all you do! Thanks for reading!

Email Sent on 9.2026

DRA: Start With Hello Week – September 21–25

Good morning DRA families and students!

This week, Desert Ridge Academy is continuing our collaboration with the Sandy Hook Promise Outreach Program as we recognize Start With Hello Week!

Start With Hello encourages students to reach out, include others, and make sure everyone feels seen, valued, and connected. This message fits perfectly with our SHARP values, especially Acceptance, Responsibility, and Self-Efficacy, and we hope everyone will help us promote kindness and connection throughout the week.

Here are our activities:

MONDAY, 9/21 – “Green Day!”
Students and staff are encouraged to wear green, the color of the Sandy Hook Promise. During breakfast, our counselors and Leadership students will be in front of the Snake Pit, where students can write words of affirmation on Post-it notes and add them to our “HELLO” poster.

WEDNESDAY, 9/23 – “Share a Hello Day!”
During breakfast, students can join our counselors and Leadership students in front of the Snake Pit to complete a “Hello Gram” and give it to another student. A simple hello or kind message can make a difference in someone's day!

FRIDAY, 9/25 – “Hello Around the World Day!”
Students and staff are encouraged to wear the colors of a world flag or clothing that represents their cultural background. In the morning, our counselors, staff, and Leadership students will welcome students to campus with “Hello” signs in different languages.

Please help us promote these activities with your students throughout the week and, most importantly, model what it means to reach out and include others. Sometimes something as simple as saying “hello” can help a student feel like they belong.

Thank you for helping us make DRA a place where every Diamondback feels seen, valued, and connected!

And remember, model SHARP in all you do!
SHARP: Self-Efficacy • Honor • Acceptance • Responsibility • Perseverance

Mr. C

Week Six: Sept. 21st - 25th

Start With Hello!

* Our school is continuing its collaboration with the Sandy Hook Promise Outreach Program to help build unity among students and staff. “Start With Hello Week” encourages students to reach out, include others, and ensure that everyone feels seen, valued, and connected. Desert Ridge Academy will recognize and support this important cause with special activities throughout the week.

MONDAY, 9/21: “Green Day!”
Students and staff are encouraged to wear green, the color of the Sandy Hook Promise. During breakfast, students may join our counselors and Leadership students in front of the Snake Pit to write words of affirmation on Post-it notes and add them to our “HELLO” poster.

WEDNESDAY, 9/23: “Share a Hello Day!”
During breakfast, students may join our counselors and Leadership students in front of the Snake Pit to complete a “Hello Gram” and give it to another student.

FRIDAY, 9/25: “Hello Around the World Day!”
Students and staff are encouraged to wear the colors of a world flag or clothing that represents their cultural background. In the morning, our counselors, staff, and Leadership students will greet students as they enter campus with “Hello” signs written in different languages.

* September is Deaf Awareness Month! DRA is proud to have a Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) program on our campus. This month reminds us to celebrate Deaf culture, promote inclusive communication, and demonstrate our SHARP value of Acceptance by ensuring everyone feels valued and included.

* Joking around is only joking when everyone involved feels safe and is having fun. “I was just playing” is not an acceptable excuse for hitting, roughhousing, making hurtful comments, or being disrespectful. Please speak with your child about respecting personal boundaries and making choices that keep interactions appropriate, safe, and positive.

* Verbal confrontations may be treated as aggression, threats, or harassment. There is no acceptable reason for a student—or a group of students—to confront another student over gossip, rumors, or social media issues. DRA has many trusted adults available to help mediate concerns and resolve conflicts safely and respectfully. Students who participate in verbal or physical confrontations may face disciplinary consequences. Please encourage your child to seek help from a staff member rather than attempting to handle a conflict independently.

* We will have a School Site Council meeting on Monday, Sept. 21st at 3:45 p.m. Meetings are open to the public; however, only elected members may vote on agenda items.

* September is Suicide Prevention Month. During the week of September 28th–October 2nd, our counselors will promote mental health, connection, and the importance of seeking help through age-appropriate schoolwide activities. We want every Diamondback to know that they matter, they belong, and support is available when they need it. If you or someone you know needs immediate support, call or text 988.

* Cell phones and smartwatches must be turned off or silenced and put away once students arrive on campus. Earbuds and headphones must also remain put away. These devices may only be used during an emergency and with staff permission.

* All students are expected to arrive in uniform each day. Monday through Thursday, students must wear a royal blue, orange, or yellow polo or T-shirt. Spirit and club shirts may only be worn on Fridays. Please note that we will be consistently enforcing royal blue as the approved shade of blue. Too many variations have created confusion about what is permitted. Clean loaner shirts will be provided to students who arrive out of uniform.

* All visitors and volunteers must check in at the front office with a photo ID and obtain a visitor pass. A photo ID is also required to sign a student out of school. Visitors must follow campus rules; disruptive behavior or inappropriate language may result in removal from campus. Parents who wish to visit during school hours must request approval from the principal and teacher at least 24 hours in advance.

* Take a moment to send someone a thoughtful text or email. A simple “thank you,” “I appreciate you,” or “I’m thinking of you” can brighten someone’s day!

Be SHARP in all you do!

Start With Hello Flyer

Email sent 9/15/2026

Dear DRA Families,

In recognition of Mexican Independence Day on Wednesday, September 16, all DRA students are invited to participate in an optional cultural-attire day.

Students may wear clothing that respectfully celebrates Mexican culture and heritage, including traditional attire, Mexico jerseys, or clothing featuring the colors of the Mexican flag. This is not a general free-dress day. Students who choose not to participate should wear their regular DRA uniform. All clothing must continue to meet our school expectations for safety, coverage, footwear, and appropriate messaging.

This opportunity was brought forward by one of our Renaissance students who thoughtfully advocated for her classmates and shared how meaningful this recognition would be to many members of our school community. I appreciate her leadership, cultural pride, and respectful advocacy, and I am pleased to honor her request.

Participation is open to all students and completely optional. We look forward to celebrating the rich culture and heritage represented throughout our DRA community with pride, unity, and SHARP spirit!

Mr. C
Principal
Desert Ridge Academy

Week Five: Sept. 14th - 18th

Staying SHARP in September

* Today marks the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, a day that forever changed our nation. We remember the lives lost, honor the courage of the first responders, and reflect on the unity and compassion shown in the days that followed. We also thank the members of our DRA family who serve or have served in the military, law enforcement, fire service, and other public safety roles. We will never forget.

* I am proud to announce that Desert Ridge Academy has earned the PBIS Gold Award! This recognition celebrates our schoolwide commitment to creating a positive, safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where all students can be successful. PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) is built around teaching and reinforcing positive behaviors, building strong relationships, and providing students with the support they need to thrive.

* As we begin our fifth week of school, we are no longer accepting schedule change requests. However, we will continue to make adjustments as needed to balance classes, reduce class sizes, and meet our students' individual needs. We appreciate your understanding as we work to create the best possible learning environment for all Diamondbacks.

* Before and after school ELOP activities are now open for registration. Sign up now to guarantee a spot at ELOP Opportunities. ELOP activities will begin on Monday, September 14th.

* Start With Hello Week is September 21st–25th. Start With Hello encourages students to recognize social isolation, reach out to others, and build connections. DRA participates because we want every Diamondback to feel welcomed, valued, and included. This week also connects perfectly with our SHARP value of Acceptance.

* AVID Day is Friday, September 18th! AVID Day celebrates more than 45 years of empowering students and educators across the country. At DRA, we are proud to recognize AVID and reaffirm our commitment to providing opportunity, support, and high expectations for every student.

* We will have a School Site Council meeting on Monday, Sept. 21st at 3:45 p.m. Meetings are open to the public; however, only elected members may vote on agenda items.

* We are excited for the 2nd Annual Tech and Tiaras event for 4th–8th grade girls! This fun day of technology, innovation, and hands-on activities will take place on Saturday, October 24th from 8:00–11:45 a.m. This is a great opportunity for our DRA girls to explore technology, learn something new, and have some fun! Stay tuned for registration information.

* Please remind your child to check the Lost and Found table before leaving campus each Friday. Items that are not claimed may be donated or discarded. Please remember that DRA and its staff cannot be responsible for items that are lost, damaged, left behind, donated, or discarded.

Be SHARP in all you do! Thanks for reading!

Week Four: Sept. 8th - 11th

Soaring Through September…

* No school is on Monday, Sept. 7th in recognition of Labor Day!

* Start With Hello Week – September 21–25: Our counselors are planning a great week of activities and opportunities designed to help every student feel welcomed, included, and connected at DRA. We are looking forward to a fun and meaningful week! More information and details will be shared as we get closer to September 21st.

* We will have a School Site Council meeting on Monday, Sept. 21st at 3:45 p.m. I had to move the meeting from Tuesday, Sept. 22nd to Sept. 21st due to a schedule conflict. School Site Council meetings are open to the public, but only elected members may vote and/or discuss agenda topics.

* We will have an English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC) meeting on Monday, September 28th at 3:45 p.m. in the office conference room. ELAC meetings are open to the public. However, only elected members can discuss and vote on agenda topics.

* Please help your child develop a SHARP routine by charging their Chromebook each night and putting technology away at a reasonable time. A good night’s sleep helps students come to school focused, prepared, and ready to learn!

* I would like to thank Indio Round Table Pizza for donating meal certificates for our staff and students, as well as In-N-Out Burger and Texas Roadhouse for donating meal certificates for student recognition awards. We are fortunate to have such great community partners supporting our students and staff!

* All students are expected to be in school uniform. Monday through Thursday, students should wear a royal blue, yellow/gold, or orange polo or T-shirt. T-shirts must be plain or display the DRA logo. On Fridays, students may wear DRA spirit, club, Leadership, AVID, GPA, or other school-related shirts. In support of our AVID program, students may also wear college or military shirts on Fridays.

* We are receiving several calls regarding uniform orders. Arc Attire was on campus on August 18th and again during Back to School Night to distribute orders. Unfortunately, we still have several orders that were not picked up. All remaining orders can now be picked up directly from the Arc Attire store in Thousand Palms.

* Before and after school ELOP activities are now open for registration. Sign up now to guarantee a spot at ELOP Opportunities. ELOP activities will begin on Monday, September 14th.

* At DRA, we are SHARP! SHARP represents the values we teach, model, and expect throughout our school community: Self-Efficacy, Honor, Acceptance, Responsibility, and Perseverance. These values guide how we learn, interact with others, overcome challenges, and contribute positively to our school. Being SHARP is not just something we do—it is how we do everything!

* Please encourage your child to check the Lost and Found table before leaving campus on Fridays. Any items remaining at the end of the week may be donated or discarded. DRA and its staff are not responsible for lost, damaged, donated, or discarded items.

Be SHARP in all you do! Thanks for reading!

Week Three: Aug. 31st - Sept. 4th

Stepping into September

* Thank you for attending our Back to School Night! We had a great evening with you. The energy was awesome! We appreciate your support and participation!

* No school is on Monday, Sept. 7th in recognition of Labor Day!

* This week, I sent out a ballot to select a parent or family member to serve on our School Site Council (SSC). The votes are in, and Ms. Rosa Rebollar has been selected to join our team! I would like to thank all of our nominees for their interest and willingness to support DRA.

* The next School Site Council meeting will be on Monday, Sept. 21st at 3:45 p.m. I had to move the meeting from Tuesday, Sept. 22nd to Sept. 21st due to a schedule conflict. School Site Council meetings are open to the public, but only elected members may vote and/or discuss agenda topics.

* We are continuing to adjust student schedules to help balance class sizes. Students and parents may now email their counselor to request an elective change. We will do our best to accommodate requests; however, core classes and specialized programs will take priority. Students requesting to serve as a teacher’s aide must also have approval emailed directly from the teacher.

* Thank you for your patience as we continue working through the challenges with bus transportation. I know it has been a difficult start, but things are improving. The Transportation Department is working hard to have more buses arrive at our site earlier and make the dismissal process smoother for everyone.

* Before and after school ELOP activities are now open for registration. Sign up now to guarantee a spot: https://www.6crickets.com/school-admin/rosters#tab=sessions

* ELOP activities will begin on Monday, September 14th.

* I have received several emails expressing concerns about lunch. The excessive heat has made lunchtime a little challenging, but I want to assure you that we are doing everything possible to keep students comfortable. Misters are running in the outdoor eating area, the air-conditioned MPR is open, and cooling fans are operating in our Snake Pit (indoor gym). Once the weather cools down, students will be able to spread out more, and lunchtime should feel much less overwhelming.

Although the main lunch line may appear long, our amazing Nutrition Services staff is getting all students through the line in approximately five to six minutes. The à la carte lines can take a little longer because students often spend time looking through the available options. Our Leadership classes are also opening the Student Store to provide water and other choices.

My best advice is for students to bring water or a refillable water bottle to school. We have chilled water-filling stations available throughout campus. Thank you for your flexibility and patience as we work through this heat!

* We have a Heat Mitigation Plan for lunch and P.E. Our Heat Mitigation Plan is on our school website.

* Our Student & Parent Handbook is located on our website.

* With more than 960 students on campus, our Lost and Found fills up very quickly. Due to health and safety concerns, unclaimed items may be donated or discarded after school each Friday. Please encourage your child to check the Lost and Found table before leaving campus on Fridays. DRA and its staff are not responsible for lost, damaged, donated, or discarded items.

Stay safe, stay strong, and stay SHARP, Diamondbacks!

Week Two: Aug. 24th - 28th

Week Two… Off and Running!

Hello DRA families! Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! Each Friday morning, I will email my weekly blog and post it on our school’s webpage. I will use this blog to keep you informed about upcoming events, important dates, policies, procedures, and general school updates.

* We had a great start to the year. We are still working out kinks with schedules and transportation. My amazing staff is working hard to get all systems in place as soon as possible.

* We will be making adjustments to some students’ schedules to help balance class sizes. At this time, we are not accepting schedule-change requests. I will notify families when we begin accepting requests for elective changes.

* Back to School Night is coming up! Back to School Night is on Thursday, August 27th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. I will send a schedule early next week.

* An email containing an interest form for joining our School Site Council (SSC) was sent to parents yesterday. The SSC meets approximately five to six times each year, generally on Tuesdays from 3:45 to 5:00 p.m. If you are interested in serving, please complete the form by Monday, August 24. Feel free to email me with any questions.

* Next Friday, we will hold a welcome-back assembly for each grade level. Our Renaissance and ASB students will lead the assemblies, and we will review important school rules and expectations.

* Information about ELOP before- and after-school activities will be sent home on Monday. Please watch for a list of available opportunities and registration information.

* ELOP activities will begin on Monday, September 14th.

* We are a uniform school. All students are expected to wear a royal blue or gold/yellow T-shirt or polo shirt each day. On Fridays, students may also wear a school club, spirit, college, or military shirt. Shirts do not need to include our school logo but must be free of other graphics or designs, except for a small brand logo. Students may wear jeans, shorts, skorts, or skirts in any color. All clothing must fit appropriately and be suitable for school.

* Arc Attire is our uniform provider and sells polo shirts, T-shirts, and PE uniforms at its store. It is located at 31090 Reserve Drive, Thousand Palms, CA 92276. The store’s phone number is 760-343-7333.

* Shoes should be appropriate for running, playing, and participating in physical education. Sandals, slides, slippers, and open-toe shoes are not permitted. Crocs are allowed, but students must wear the back strap (sport mode).

* We have a Heat Mitigation Plan for lunch and P.E. Our Heat Mitigation Plan is on our school website.

* Our Student & Parent Handbook is located on our website.

* Per state and district policies, we will practice secure, lockdown, fire, and other emergency procedures throughout the year. You will be emailed prior to a safety drill.

* Reminders regarding our policies and procedures:

*** No gum. Please buy mints.

*** No Starbucks or open drinks.

*** No displaying public affection (kissing, holding hands, etc.)

*** Students must wear the school uniform and ID/Lanyard.

*** Cell phones must be turned off and stored away upon entering the school.

*** Clothes must properly fit (not too small, not too big, no sagging).

*** We expect students to demonstrate respectful behavior at all times. Students are accountable for their behavior from the time they leave home until they return home, including at bus stops and while riding the bus. Riding the bus is a privilege, and students may lose that privilege if their behavior creates an unsafe environment for the driver or other passengers.

*** Fighting, physical aggression, and violence between students will not be tolerated. All students deserve to feel safe at school. Students who violate this policy may face disciplinary consequences, including suspension, in accordance with the California Education Code.

* Please have students check the lost and found by the office before leaving on Fridays. All leftover items are donated or discarded due to safety precautions, odor, and mold.

* Please feel free to contact me at any time with questions, comments, concerns, or compliments regarding our school or your child. Our school’s phone number is 760-393-5500. However, the best way to reach me is by email at craig.christensen@desertsands.us.

Have a fun weekend! Thanks for reading.

Email sent on 8/18/2026

Greetings DRA Families,

Student schedules are now live in ParentVUE and StudentVUE. I apologize for the delay. We encountered some technological difficulties and have also enrolled approximately 40 new students during the past two weeks. That is a great problem to have! DRA is already a great place, and your child’s enrollment and involvement will help us make it even greater!

Please keep the following information in mind when reviewing your child’s schedule:

Students should have seven class periods.
Most sixth-grade students will have an AVID Wheel as one of their electives. The AVID Wheel consists of one semester of AVID and one semester of an engaging exploratory elective.
To better support our students’ academic needs in mathematics, some students will have both a math class and a math intervention class. Placement in math intervention is determined administratively based on previous academic performance and individual needs. Students may not opt out of this course, but they can earn their way out through effort, academic growth, and perseverance.
We understand that some students may not have received their first-choice elective or teacher. However, our primary objective is to provide every student with a balanced schedule that meets their academic needs.
Students and families may not request schedule changes during the first 10 days of school. I will provide additional information about the schedule-change request process in my weekly blog.

I am extremely excited for tomorrow! This is going to be a great school year. Here are a few important reminders:

Campus gates will open at 8:30 a.m.
Tomorrow is a minimum day. Students will be dismissed at 2:31 p.m.
All students are expected to arrive in uniform.
Our student handbook, bell schedule, and other important information are available on the DRA website.

I hope you have a wonderful evening. We cannot wait to welcome our students tomorrow!

Be SHARP in all you do,

Mr. C

Email Sent on 8/3/2026

Dear Desert Ridge Academy Families,

Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! I am incredibly excited to return to Desert Ridge Academy and begin my first full school year as your principal. It is an honor to serve the DRA community, and I look forward to working alongside our students, families, and staff to make this an exceptional year.

I am also pleased to introduce our assistant principals, Sheila Pottorff and Jared Goldman. Together, we are committed to supporting our students, staff, and families while continuing to build a positive school culture in which every student feels accepted, valued, and capable of success.

Our team has been hard at work throughout the summer preparing our campus for the return of our students. The school has received fresh paint, new blacktop has been laid on the basketball courts, the garden has been cleaned, and numerous improvements have been made across campus. Each project reflects our commitment to creating a welcoming school that inspires pride.

Please mark your calendars for our upcoming Orientation Days:

Wednesday, August 12 — Incoming Sixth-Grade Students
Thursday, August 13 — Seventh- and Eighth-Grade Students

The hours for both days will be:

9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. — Last Names A–L
1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. — Last Names M–Z

School uniforms will be available for purchase during Orientation Days. Families wishing to beat the lines may shop directly at Arc Attire, located at 31-090 Reserve Drive, Unit 3, Thousand Palms, CA. Arc Attire is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Our school office is now open, and our regular office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please stay tuned for additional information regarding ELOP and Daily After School, formerly known as ASES.

As we begin this new school year, please know that every decision we make and every policy and procedure we implement will be guided by our students' best interests. I remain fully committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and academically rich environment in which all students can learn, grow, and thrive.

Families are always welcome to contact me if you have questions, concerns, or need support. Your partnership is essential to our success, and I look forward to an outstanding 2026–2027 school year together.

DRA Strong,

Mr. C