Red Ribbon Week observed at school

Almost every student and all teachers have seen the devastation that illegal drug use has on students, and last week Counselor Matt Alvarado led activities to promote positive lifestyles for students. Students participated each day in different activities, and Friday they met in the gym for a presentation from the New Mexico State Police on drug awareness.

 
Conferences well-attended

Principal Steve Harris thanks the parents who came to the school Monday to discuss their children’s grades and continued plans for success with the teachers. Fifty-two percent of the parents were able to visit with teachers. Harris reminds parents that tutoring is offered free of charge to any student who wishes a little extra help. Schedules are available in the office. Parents may check their children’s grades at any time on PowerSchool from the school Web site www.portalesschools.com.

 No bullies allowed

All students at the junior high completed a bully prevention training Tuesday. Faculty and staff had previously followed this training, and they led the students through the Internet-interactive presentation.

 
Emergency drills

PJHS students practiced for emergencies the past two weeks. One week students loaded onto school buses and learned how to exit them in case of emergencies. Last week they practiced an evacuation in case of an earthquake or other reason they would need to leave the school buildings.

 
Steiner Read-a-thon

Several junior high classes walked to Steiner Elementary School on Friday to read to first grade students.

 
ENMU field trip

Students participating in Eastern New Mexico University’s Talent Search program will visit Eastern’s campus this week. The program is designed to make students aware of the possibilities education offers them.

 
Picture retakes Wednesday

LifeTouch Studios will return Wednesday to take pictures for any students who were absent the first time.  These pictures will be in the yearbook due for release in May. The all-color book will include more pages and capture the essence of life at Portales Junior High School.
The price of the annual will be $35 after Dec. 1; however, until then, students may purchase one for $20. Sponsor Jon Birdsong will allow students who reserve one with a $10 down payment now to have the special price.

 
Penny war to begin

Seventh and eighth grade students will compete in a “penny war” during the next two weeks to support the United Way and the Dream Center. After all the pennies are collected and counted, the money will be donated to the Dream Center in Portales.