The Penguin Press

Session 1: Summer Academic Morning Program and Summer Afternoon Prime Time Program will be open at 52 sites:
- Thursday, June 4 – Thursday, July 2; no school Friday, June 19. (8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
- Summer Afternoon Prime Time Program (12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
Session 2: Summer PrimeTime Enrichment:
- July 6 through July 17 (8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)

State-wide CAASPP Testing is Almost Here!

Every year, California students take several statewide tests. When combined with other measures such as grades, class work, and teacher observations, these tests give families and teachers a more complete picture of their child’s learning. You can use the results to identify where your child is doing well and where they might need more support.
Your child may be taking one or more of the following California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP), English Language Proﬁciency Assessments for California (ELPAC), and Physical Fitness Test assessments. For more information regarding state testing, please see this NOTIFICATION.

Did you know that you can practice these tests with your child before they test later this spring? Here’s how:

Go to Practice and Training Tests:

Then select Practice and Training Tests for Students:

Don’t toggle anything, just select sign-in:

Select grader from drop down:

Then scroll to test Smarter Balanced:

No sign in is required. They can practice from any device.

PBE is Looking for PALS

PBE is looking for PALS! Pals is Parents at Lunch Support. Are you available to volunteer Mondays, Tuesday, Thursday, and/or Fridays from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.?

Being a PBE PAL is a great way to support our school and also see your child during the school day. If you are available and willing, even if it is just one or two days a week, please email Dr. Schnitzer at kschnitzer@sandi.net.

Being a PBE volunteer is easy, you just need to complete a volunteer application, provide a copy of TB (tuberculosis) clearance – these are good for 4 years, and provide a copy of your driver’s license.

Media Release Form

During the school year, schools host events where representatives of the news media may be on campus to gather photographs and/or video footage.

In addition, parents and students may take photos of events in classrooms or around schools. These photos may be posted on the Internet, on social media, on your child’s classroom site, or otherwise distributed without the permission of the school. Your child’s participation in these events is valued, and parent permission is needed to include him or her in events where photography may take place.

Parents/Guardians who prefer that their child not be photographed or video recorded must notify the school. Schools make every effort to ensure the wishes of the parent/guardian. Please be aware that photographing and video recording by devices such as a mobile phones may take place without the knowledge of the teacher, principal or district staff.

(Please complete THIS FORM form for EACH individual child).

After-School Programs

If you have any questions about our after-school programs for next school year, please reach out to one of our following contacts:

Klassic Kids 619-534-2846

Prime Time 858-282-7537

Whole Child 619-791-6611

We encourage you to visit and explore the 2025-26 PrimeTime website (https://www.sdusdelo.com/academic-year-primetime) for additional information about the application timeline, process and student eligibility.

For questions, please contact Extended Learning Opportunities, PrimeTime Office at (858) 503-1870 or email primetime@sandi.net.!

PBE School Site Council (SSC)

Our amazing SSC met on October 21st.. They approved the 2025-2026 Site Emergency Response Plan (SERP) which can be found here. Our next meeting is scheduled for March 17, 2026 starting at 2:30 p.m. Join us in person in the PD Room.

PBE Mission and Vision Statements

At our school, our mission statement is more than just words on a wall — it is the foundation of who we are and how we work together each day. A mission statement gives us a clear purpose. It answers the question, “Why are we here?” and helps guide our decisions, our goals, and the way we treat one another. When students understand our shared mission, they feel connected to something bigger than themselves. It builds pride, belonging, and a sense of responsibility.

In classrooms, teachers work with students to create their own class mission statements. This empowers students to take ownership of their learning and behavior. They reflect on the kind of classroom community they want to build and the leaders they want to become. This work aligns closely with Habit 2: Begin With the End in Mind through Leader in Me. By identifying our purpose and vision, we intentionally create a positive, safe, and focused learning environment for every child.

We encourage you to ask your child about their classroom mission statement and what it means to them. When school and home share common values and goals, our students thrive. Check out our new mission statement wall the next time you are in the PBE office.

Communication

We believe that strong communication between home and school is vital for student success. We will continue to use our school website, school Messenger, weekly emails of our Penguin Press, and our mobile app, Konstella, to keep you informed about important events, updates, and classroom activities. Konstella: https://www.konstella.com/cd/FYA4UQ).Please ensure that your contact information is up to date in our system so that you receive all communications in a timely manner. Be sure to follow FOPBE on social media (https://www.instagram.com/fopbe and www.facebook.com/FOPBE)

PBE is Leader in Me

A Leader in Me School is a school that helps students discover and develop the leader within themselves. It’s based on The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey and focuses on teaching leadership, responsibility, and life skills—not just academics.

Core Idea: Every student has the ability to lead — to make good choices, set goals, and help others.
A Leader in Me School helps students learn how to do that every day, both in and out of the classroom.

What You’ll See in a Leader in Me School

Students leading assemblies, helping in the community, or welcoming visitors
Leadership roles in classrooms (like greeters, tech helpers, or kindness leaders)
Students tracking their goals in “Leadership Notebooks”
A positive, respectful school culture where everyone contributes

This month, we are focuing on Habit number 6: Habit 6: Synergize teaches us to value differences—to see them as strengths rather than obstacles.

What does it look like to value differences?

Listening with respect
You truly listen to others’ ideas, even when they’re different from your own.
Appreciating different perspectives
You recognize that people have different backgrounds, experiences, cultures, and ways of thinking—and that these differences add value.
Including everyone
You invite others to share, make sure no one is left out, and create a sense of belonging.
Working together to find better solutions
Instead of insisting on your own way, you combine ideas to create something better than any one person could alone.
Disagreeing respectfully
You can say, “I see it differently,” without being unkind or dismissive.
Learning from others
You stay curious and open, knowing you can grow by learning from people who are different from you.

In short, valuing differences means celebrating what makes each person unique and using those differences to become stronger together.

All students in grades K–5 began sharing their Leader in Me Leadership Notebooks with classmates as part of our continued growth as a Leader in Me School.

Leadership Notebooks are student-owned tools that help children track goals, reflect on their learning, and build self-confidence. By sharing their notebooks with peers, students have the opportunity to practice important leadership skills in a meaningful and supportive way.

This experience offers many benefits for students, including:

Building confidence and public speaking skills
Practicing reflection and goal-setting
Learning from one another’s strengths and ideas
Strengthening accountability and ownership of learning
Developing empathy, respect, and positive peer connections

We are proud of the leadership growth we are seeing across our school and grateful for your continued partnership in helping every child see themselves as a leader. Here are some questions that you can ask at home to learn more about their Leadership Notebooks:

School-Wide Expectations

As we strive to cultivate a positive and supportive learning environment at PBE, I wanted to take a moment to remind you of our school-wide expectations, which are:

Be Safe

Be Respectful

Be Responsible

Be Kind

These expectations are not only integral to creating a conducive atmosphere for learning within the school premises but are also fundamental principles that contribute to the overall well-being and development of our students.

In line with our commitment to fostering these values, I encourage you to reinforce these expectations at home as well. By practicing safety, respect, and responsibility in your daily interactions and activities with your child, you not only support their growth and character development but also reinforce the importance of these principles beyond the classroom.

MTSS at PBE

What is MTSS?
MTSS is a proactive, data-driven framework used in elementary schools to support the academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and attendance needs of all students. It provides layered support through increasing levels of intervention based on each student’s individual needs.

Please find our MTSS Handbook HERE

Please find our Restorative Discipline Policy Here

NO Place for Hate

We are working to be a No Place for Hate School.

Being a No Place for Hate school means we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all students, staff, and families. This work focuses on fostering respect, celebrating diversity, addressing bias, and standing together against bullying and discrimination in all forms.

Throughout the year, students engage in lessons, discussions, and activities that promote empathy, kindness, and understanding. These experiences empower students to speak up, support one another, and take positive action to make our school community stronger.

This designation would reflect the collective efforts of our students, staff, and families to ensure our school is a place where everyone feels valued, respected, and heard. Thank you for partnering with us as we continue to build a culture of belonging for all. Here is our pledge so that you can practice with your child at home too:

Friends of Pacific Beach Elementary (FOPBE)

FOPBE is on Instagram and Facebook! Follow FOPBE to stay up to date about PBE events, announcements, and reminders, plus fun facts and highlights about our wonderful school! Follow FOPBE at https://www.instagram.com/fopbe/ and/or https://www.facebook.com/FOPBE/

Please connect with our parent partners at: pacificbeachelementary@gmail.com

Parent/Family Handbook

Did you know that our handbook answers many questions that you may have. Please refer to our 2025-2026 Parent/family handbook here.

The Penguin Press

Week 28 Grading Period 3 March 2, 2026

This week we had the honor of welcoming the Leader in Me Lighthouse Review Team to PBE on Wednesday, February 25th. The visit began with a warm welcome from our amazing Student Leadership Team (SLT). Reviewers observed our special Morning Huddle, engaged in parent interviews, and were led on a campus tour by SLT members, who also participated in student interviews.

Throughout the day, reviewers listened as students in grades K–5 proudly shared their Leadership Notebooks, highlighting their goals, reflections, and growth as leaders. We concluded the visit with meaningful discussions alongside our Leader in Me Lighthouse Team, reflecting on how much our school has grown in its support of the Seven Habits, student leadership, and service-learning projects.

We are incredibly proud of our students, staff, and families for the strong leadership culture they continue to build at PBE. Thank you for your ongoing partnership and support.

Here are the students who were “Caught Being a Leader” and were recognized during our morning huddle for demonstrating one or more of the seven habits of highly effective people:

5: Salcido Nile and Miles F.
3: Warner Mya W. and Leila
K: Sette Sienna and Archie
2: Taylor Lincoln and Vera
3/4: Raugewitz Coraline and Alex
2: Atwell Bobby and Falcon
5/4: Reynolds Jagger and Oceana
TK: LP and Crawford Isabelle and O’Neil
4: Cromar George and Elisa
TK: Alba & Arsoni Ajeet and Amelia
1: Denenberg/Marquardt Bem and Ilithia
1: Luce Olivia and Kenley
K: Alba Andrew and Matthew

It’s great to be a Penguin!

With penguin pride,

Dr. Karon Schnitzer

Dates to Remember

March 7th- Gulls Game
March 9th- No school- SDUSD Non-Instructional Day
March 17th- SSC 2:30-3:30
March 25th- FOPBE Meeting 5:30-6:30
March 26th and 27th- Minimum Days with dismissal at 12:15 for Spring Conferences
March 30-April 3- SPRING BREAK
April 6th- School Resumes
April 16th- OPEN HOUSE -5:00-6:00
April 21st- SSC 2:30-3:30
April 23rd- FOPBE Meeting 5:30-6:30
April 24th- FOPBE Auction- Details to Come
May 25th- No School- Memorial Day
May 27th- Kindergarten Promotion
May 28th- Fifth Grade Promotion- 8:00-9:00 and Last Day of School- Enjoy your Summer!!!

It’s Read Across America Week!

Read Across America was launched in 1998 by the National Education Association (NEA) to promote a love of reading and lifelong literacy. It was traditionally celebrated on March 2 in honor of Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss), whose books have inspired generations of readers.

Over time, scholars and educators have closely examined Dr. Seuss’s body of work, and noted the presence of racism through racial caricatures and stereotypes in some early publications. In response, the NEA has expanded Read Across America into an initiative that highlights a wide range of authors, stories, and perspectives.

Today, the focus is on helping all students see themselves in books and develop a lifelong connection to reading. Families and educators are encouraged to explore the NEA’s monthly book recommendations,, which feature engaging titles for young readers, middle grade students, and young adults.

PBE Family Roller Skating Night is back!

Join us Thursday, March 5 | 5–8 PM at Skateworld San Diego for FOPBE’s Annual Family Night Out! All PBE students, staff, teachers, families, and friends are welcome to roll with us! 💙

🎟️ Discounted Tickets: $20 per person (includes admission + skate rental) available on Konstella (https://www.konstella.com/app/school/63e08064cf38ad6d6ff367ca/sales-sheets/6991f03df6ba7194bddeb56b) — we highly encourage purchasing ahead of time!

• Non-skating children need a ticket

• Non-skating adults may attend free to watch

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Please note:

This is not a drop-off event — all children must be chaperoned by a parent/guardian.

✅ Waiver required for entry!

Complete Skateworld’s online waiver before arriving to speed up check-in (https://waiver.roller.app/skateworldsandiego/).

📍 6907 Linda Vista Rd, San Diego

🎉 Grab your tickets through the link in our bio and get ready for a night of music, fun, and community!

We can’t wait to skate with our PBE families and friends! 💫🛼

Fifth Graders Only!! 2025-26 Parent/Guardian Consent Form for the California Healthy Kids Survey (CHKS)

Dear Parent or Guardian:

Your child is being asked to be a part of our school’s California Healthy Kids Survey (CHKS), sponsored by the California Department of Education (CDE). This is a very important survey that will help promote better health and well-being among our youth, improve the school learning environment, and combat problems such as drug abuse and violence. Your child does not have to take the survey. Participation is voluntary and requires your permission.

Survey Content.
The survey gathers information on developmental supports provided to youth; school connectedness and barriers to learning, as well as behaviors such as physical activity and nutritional habits; alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use; and school safety. You may examine the questionnaire in the school office or at https://drive.google.com/file/d/15_jeatsVQied6apQaal6L8PJ50FuZKTl/view. The results from this survey are compiled into the district- and county-level CHKS Reports.

It is Voluntary.
Students who, with your permission, agree to participate do not have to answer any questions they do not want to answer and may stop taking the survey at any time.
It is Anonymous. No names are recorded or attached to the survey forms or data. The results will be made available for analysis only under strict confidentiality controls.

Administration.
The survey will be administered the week of March 2nd-5th. Please see the CONSENT FORM HERE.

Time to Start Getting Ready for the 2026-27 School Year!

We are excited to share that we are moving away from paper registration and transitioning to an online Parent Portal system.

Through the Parent Portal, you will be able to:

Complete annual registration forms
Update contact and emergency information
Review important documents and permissions
Manage enrollment details in one convenient place

This streamlined system will make the registration process more efficient for families and our school staff, while ensuring we have the most up-to-date information to support your child.

For now, here is some information from SDUSD:

Online Student Enrollment 26-27 – Launches on March 2, 2026. A platform for new student enrollments that includes:
- Transitional Kindergarten (TK) registration
- Enrollment for new students in neighborhood K-12 schools
- Re-enrollment for students who are returning to the district
- Enrollment for new students offered and accepting seats through School Choice
- Enrollment for new out-of-district families accepted via School Choice

Student Registration for Next Year 26-27 – Opens March 23 and is available through the Parent Portal. A platform for currently enrolled students articulating to the next grade within the district.

Resources For families:

Guide: How to Create a Parent Portal Account – English , Español
Video: How to Create a Parent Portal Account – English , Español
Powerschool Parent/Student Portal Training Resources

School-Drop off/Pick-Up Safety

PBE is Hosting Summer School This Year

Session 1: Summer Academic Morning Program and Summer Afternoon Prime Time Program will be open at 52 sites:
- Thursday, June 4 – Thursday, July 2; no school Friday, June 19. (8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
- Summer Afternoon Prime Time Program (12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
Session 2: Summer PrimeTime Enrichment:
- July 6 through July 17 (8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)

State-wide CAASPP Testing is Almost Here!

Did you know that you can practice these tests with your child before they test later this spring? Here’s how:

CBS 8: https://www.cbs8.com/article/news/local/pacific-beach-elementary-celebrates-opening-of-new-tk-and-kindergarten-building/509-8a65cfec-7d01-4008-b588-a1e88d3411ed

Go to Practice and Training Tests:

Then select Practice and Training Tests for Students:

Don’t toggle anything, just select sign-in:

Select grader from drop down:

Then scroll to test Smarter Balanced:

No sign in is required. They can practice from any device.

PBE is Looking for PALS

PBE is looking for PALS! Pals is Parents at Lunch Support. Are you available to volunteer Mondays, Tuesday, Thursday, and/or Fridays from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.?

Media Release Form

During the school year, schools host events where representatives of the news media may be on campus to gather photographs and/or video footage.

(Please complete THIS FORM form for EACH individual child).

After-School Programs

For questions, please contact Extended Learning Opportunities, PrimeTime Office at (858) 503-1870 or email primetime@sandi.net.!

PBE School Site Council (SSC)

PBE Mission and Vision Statements

Last year, we took our then current school mission and vision statements and sought and embraced feedback and input from our staff, community, and especially our students. Our mission and vision statements were slightly revised this year.

Our classes have been working on mission statements too. Ask your child what their mission statement is.

Communication

PBE is Leader in Me

What You’ll See in a Leader in Me School

Students leading assemblies, helping in the community, or welcoming visitors
Leadership roles in classrooms (like greeters, tech helpers, or kindness leaders)
Students tracking their goals in “Leadership Notebooks”
A positive, respectful school culture where everyone contributes

This month, we are focuing on Habit number 6: Habit 6: Synergize teaches us to value differences—to see them as strengths rather than obstacles.

What does it look like to value differences?

Listening with respect
You truly listen to others’ ideas, even when they’re different from your own.
Appreciating different perspectives
You recognize that people have different backgrounds, experiences, cultures, and ways of thinking—and that these differences add value.
Including everyone
You invite others to share, make sure no one is left out, and create a sense of belonging.
Working together to find better solutions
Instead of insisting on your own way, you combine ideas to create something better than any one person could alone.
Disagreeing respectfully
You can say, “I see it differently,” without being unkind or dismissive.
Learning from others
You stay curious and open, knowing you can grow by learning from people who are different from you.

In short, valuing differences means celebrating what makes each person unique and using those differences to become stronger together.

All students in grades K–5 began sharing their Leader in Me Leadership Notebooks with classmates as part of our continued growth as a Leader in Me School.

This experience offers many benefits for students, including:

Building confidence and public speaking skills
Practicing reflection and goal-setting
Learning from one another’s strengths and ideas
Strengthening accountability and ownership of learning
Developing empathy, respect, and positive peer connections

In Case You Missed it- Our Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Was a Success!

This beautiful event was very well covered by press. Here are the links to the news release, photos, video, TV news coverage, and web articles.

San Diego Live Data X Post:https://x.com/619SDLD/status/2018780594813984884?s=20

TV News Coverage (NBC, Fox5/KUSI, CBS 8, Channel 10, Telemundo)

News Web Articles:

Fox 5/KUSI: https://fox5sandiego.com/news/local-news/pacific-beach-elementary-new-building/

NBC 7: https://www.nbcsandiego.com/video/videos/pb-elementary-celebrates-major-classroom-campus-upgrades/3971157/

Times of San Diego: https://timesofsandiego.com/education/2026/02/03/staff-and-students-celebrate-pb-elementarys-campuswide-upgrades/?fbclid=IwY2xjawPvQ3FleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETEwNU5RN1EwdnNMSXp0a2FZc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHtpwSdtcjUzDcdWv5IIgehvGA8b-nP5-kEhCYirwkL9gLg49if8KI118Ydxz_aem_2VNxCGiwB7-y_v-ZsRPPnQ

District News Release (on news center): PBES Celebrates Campus Transformation – San Diego Unified School District

Drone video, ground, and drone photos can be found here

Social Media:

Friends of Pacific Beach Elementary (FOPBE) Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/FOPBE/posts/pfbid02g2DWYNnqYBZFCYLEYpy5yGXKfiy7fxtvErubzvWu57vbEUsHd4ejXbgBxEHmZNqhl

KUSI Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/KUSINews/posts/pfbid0372XWBoftHXrph88nQ3JE86SsDY5QXeJhegKUmRw8HcDAJPJro5Qgk4AF9N8CCFBwl

CBS 8 Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1528662901558183

San Diego Live Data Facebook Post:https://www.facebook.com/SanDiegoLiveData/posts/pfbid0D9TjEvMkMMwhSD5cSoFwaxtDco3V1TfHSxkSSuPSKukchb4EkZNLfcWtxCEXZLF4l

CBS 8 Instagram Post #1: https://www.instagram.com/p/DURoKMECT0g/

CBS 8 Instagram Post #2: https://www.instagram.com/p/DUR4BAaiqN9/

CBS 8 X Post: https://x.com/CBS8/status/2018456157497467132?s=20

School-Wide Expectations

As we strive to cultivate a positive and supportive learning environment at PBE, I wanted to take a moment to remind you of our school-wide expectations, which are:

Be Safe

Be Respectful

Be Responsible

Be Kind

MTSS at PBE

Please find our MTSS Handbook HERE

Please find our Restorative Discipline Policy Here

NO Place for Hate

We are working to be a No Place for Hate School.

Friends of Pacific Beach Elementary (FOPBE)

Please connect with our parent partners at: pacificbeachelementary@gmail.com

Parent/Family Handbook

Did you know that our handbook answers many questions that you may have. Please refer to our 2025-2026 Parent/family handbook here.

The Penguin Press

Week 27 Grading Period 3 February 23, 2026

We are thrilled to share that our Penguin Dash was a wonderful success! All of our students had a fantastic time participating, and it was truly heartwarming to see so many families support our school.

Thank you for your enthusiasm, encouragement, and partnership. Events like this help build our strong school community, and we are so grateful to share these joyful moments with you.

Thank you to FOPBE for your continued support and we look forward to many more fun events together!

It’s great to be a Penguin!

With penguin pride,

Dr. Karon Schnitzer

Dates to Remember

February 21st- Core Academy
February 23rd- FOPBE Meeting- 5:30-6:30
February 24th- Principal Meeting on projected enrollment and staffing for 26-27 at 7:55 in PD Room
February 23- NO Morning Huddle- Moved to Wednesday, February 25th
February 25th- Morning Huddle and Leader in Me Lighthouse Review Day!
February 26th- WE WILL HAVE SCHOOL
March 7th- Gulls Game- Details to Come
March 9th- No school- SDUSD Non-Instructional Day
March 17th- SSC 2:30-3:30
March 25th- FOPBE Meeting 5:30-6:30
March 26th and 27th- Minimum Days with dismissal at 12:15 for Spring Conferences
March 30-April 3- SPRING BREAK
April 6th- School Resumes
April 16th- OPEN HOUSE -5:00-6:00
April 21st- SSC 2:30-3:30
April 23rd- FOPBE Meeting 5:30-6:30
April 24th- FOPBE Auction- Details to Come
May 25th- No School- Memorial Day
May 27th- Kindergarten Promotion
May 28th- Fifth Grade Promotion- 8:00-9:00 and Last Day of School- Enjoy your Summer!!!

There WILL BE School on February 26th

It’s Black History Month!

February is Black History Month, a time when we intentionally honor and celebrate the achievements, contributions, and lasting impact of Black Americans throughout history and today.

Throughout the month, students will engage in age-appropriate lessons, read-alouds, discussions, and activities that highlight influential Black leaders, artists, scientists, authors, and changemakers. Our focus is on celebrating resilience, creativity, leadership, and the many ways Black history is woven into our shared story.

At Pacific Beach Elementary, we believe it is important for students to see themselves reflected in their learning and to grow in understanding and respect for the experiences of others. Black History Month supports our commitment to inclusivity, empathy, and developing thoughtful global citizens.

Leader in Me Lighthouse Review Day is February 25th!!

We are thrilled to share that our Leader in Me Lighthouse Review is scheduled for February 25th—how exciting!

So, what does this mean?

The Lighthouse Review is an important milestone in our Leader in Me (LIM) journey. It is an opportunity for our school to showcase how students, staff, and families live out the 7 Habits every day through leadership, responsibility, goal setting, and collaboration. During the review, visitors will observe classrooms, talk with students and staff, and see how leadership is embedded into our school culture and learning environment. We will have a special WEDNESDAY Moring Huddle in place of the Monday Morning Huddle so the LIM Reviews can observe our student leaders first hand.

This process allows us to reflect on our growth, celebrate our successes, and identify next steps as we continue strengthening leadership skills in every child. Most importantly, it highlights the incredible work our students do as confident leaders of their own learning.

We are so proud of our students and staff and grateful for the partnership of our families in supporting this work. Thank you for being part of what makes our school shine!

PBE Family Roller Skating Night is back!

Join us Thursday, March 5 | 5–8 PM at Skateworld San Diego for FOPBE’s Annual Family Night Out! All PBE students, staff, teachers, families, and friends are welcome to roll with us! 💙

• Non-skating children need a ticket

• Non-skating adults may attend free to watch

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Please note:

This is not a drop-off event — all children must be chaperoned by a parent/guardian.

✅ Waiver required for entry!

Complete Skateworld’s online waiver before arriving to speed up check-in (https://waiver.roller.app/skateworldsandiego/).

📍 6907 Linda Vista Rd, San Diego

🎉 Grab your tickets through the link in our bio and get ready for a night of music, fun, and community!

We can’t wait to skate with our PBE families and friends! 💫🛼

Fifth Graders Only!! 2025-26 Parent/Guardian Consent Form for the California Healthy Kids Survey (CHKS)

Dear Parent or Guardian:

Administration.
The survey will be administered the week of March 2nd-5th. Please see the CONSENT FORM HERE.

School-Drop off/Pick-Up Safety

PBE is Hosting Summer School This Year

Session 1: Summer Academic Morning Program and Summer Afternoon Prime Time Program will be open at 52 sites:
- Thursday, June 4 – Thursday, July 2; no school Friday, June 19. (8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
- Summer Afternoon Prime Time Program (12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
Session 2: Summer PrimeTime Enrichment:
- July 6 through July 17 (8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)

State-wide CAASPP Testing is Almost Here!

Did you know that you can practice these tests with your child before they test later this spring? Here’s how:

Missoula Children’s Theatre Sign-Up

Go to Practice and Training Tests:

Then select Practice and Training Tests for Students:

Don’t toggle anything, just select sign-in:

Select grader from drop down:

Then scroll to test Smarter Balanced:

No sign in is required. They can practice from any de

FOPSS Missoula Children’s Theatre is Coming Soon!

The Friends of Pacific Beach Secondary Schools has contracted with Missoula Children’s Theatre to bring Alice in Wonderland to Pacific Beach Middle School February 23-28. Students from the PB cluster schools who are in grades 1-8 are invited to audition.

Here is a direct link to the sign-up form:

New Leader in Me Song

As you are aware, if you attended our Morning Huddle on Tuesday, our PBE Instructional Leadership Team (ILT) partnered with students to write a new song that we will begin singing during Morning Huddle.

The song, “This School Is Our School,” reflects who we are at PBE and what we believe in. It highlights our mission of inclusion, belonging, and love for all, and celebrates the voice and leadership of our students.

It has been incredibly meaningful to watch our students collaborate, create, and share a message that truly represents our school community. We are proud of their leadership and can’t wait for this song to become a joyful part of our Morning Huddle routine.

Thank you for your continued partnership and for helping us nurture a school culture where every child feels seen, valued, and included. Here is a THE VIDEO of some student leaders signing it as well as the lyrics so you too can join in our sing along during our Morning Huddles.

This School is Our School

Chorus

This land is your land,
This school is our school,
From the growing garden,
To the kinder playground.
From the cafeteria
To the green grass field,
This school was made for you and me.

Verse 1

We are all leaders, brave and kind,
We set big goals, and grow our minds.
We solve our problems, we work together,
This school was made for you and me.

Verse 2

So when we’re reading, counting, creating,
Dreaming big and celebrating,
We lift each other, we all belong here,
This school was made for you and me.

Chorus (Repeat)

This land is your land,
This school is our school,
From the growing garden
To the kinder playground.
From the cafeteria
To the green grass field,
This school was made for PBE.

School Resumes on February 26, 2026

PBE is Looking for PALS

PBE is looking for PALS! Pals is Parents at Lunch Support. Are you available to volunteer Mondays, Tuesday, Thursday, and/or Fridays from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.?

Media Release Form

During the school year, schools host events where representatives of the news media may be on campus to gather photographs and/or video footage.

(Please complete THIS FORM form for EACH individual child).

After-School Programs

For questions, please contact Extended Learning Opportunities, PrimeTime Office at (858) 503-1870 or email primetime@sandi.net.!

PBE School Site Council (SSC)

PBE Mission and Vision Statements

Our classes have been working on mission statements too. Ask your child what their mission statement is.

Communication

PBE is Leader in Me

What You’ll See in a Leader in Me School

Students leading assemblies, helping in the community, or welcoming visitors
Leadership roles in classrooms (like greeters, tech helpers, or kindness leaders)
Students tracking their goals in “Leadership Notebooks”
A positive, respectful school culture where everyone contributes

On Monday, January 26, all students in grades K–5 began sharing their Leader in Me Leadership Notebooks with classmates as part of our continued growth as a Leader in Me School.

This experience offers many benefits for students, including:

Building confidence and public speaking skills
Practicing reflection and goal-setting
Learning from one another’s strengths and ideas
Strengthening accountability and ownership of learning
Developing empathy, respect, and positive peer connections

In Case You Missed it- Our Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Was a Success!

This beautiful event was very well covered by press. Here are the links to the news release, photos, video, TV news coverage, and web articles.

San Diego Live Data X Post:https://x.com/619SDLD/status/2018780594813984884?s=20

TV News Coverage (NBC, Fox5/KUSI, CBS 8, Channel 10, Telemundo)

News Web Articles:

Fox 5/KUSI: https://fox5sandiego.com/news/local-news/pacific-beach-elementary-new-building/

CBS 8: https://www.cbs8.com/article/news/local/pacific-beach-elementary-celebrates-opening-of-new-tk-and-kindergarten-building/509-8a65cfec-7d01-4008-b588-a1e88d3411ed

NBC 7: https://www.nbcsandiego.com/video/videos/pb-elementary-celebrates-major-classroom-campus-upgrades/3971157/

District News Release (on news center): PBES Celebrates Campus Transformation – San Diego Unified School District

Drone video, ground, and drone photos can be found here

Social Media:

Friends of Pacific Beach Elementary (FOPBE) Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/FOPBE/posts/pfbid02g2DWYNnqYBZFCYLEYpy5yGXKfiy7fxtvErubzvWu57vbEUsHd4ejXbgBxEHmZNqhl

KUSI Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/KUSINews/posts/pfbid0372XWBoftHXrph88nQ3JE86SsDY5QXeJhegKUmRw8HcDAJPJro5Qgk4AF9N8CCFBwl

CBS 8 Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1528662901558183

San Diego Live Data Facebook Post:https://www.facebook.com/SanDiegoLiveData/posts/pfbid0D9TjEvMkMMwhSD5cSoFwaxtDco3V1TfHSxkSSuPSKukchb4EkZNLfcWtxCEXZLF4l

CBS 8 Instagram Post #1: https://www.instagram.com/p/DURoKMECT0g/

CBS 8 Instagram Post #2: https://www.instagram.com/p/DUR4BAaiqN9/

CBS 8 X Post: https://x.com/CBS8/status/2018456157497467132?s=20

School-Wide Expectations

As we strive to cultivate a positive and supportive learning environment at PBE, I wanted to take a moment to remind you of our school-wide expectations, which are:

Be Safe

Be Respectful

Be Responsible

Be Kind

MTSS at PBE

Please find our MTSS Handbook HERE

Please find our Restorative Discipline Policy Here

Last week, our staff participated in professional learning led by the San Diego County Office of Education focused on the effective use of Calming Corners in classrooms.

Calming Corners are thoughtfully designed spaces that help students recognize, manage, and regulate their emotions. They are not a form of discipline or a “time-out,” but rather a proactive support tool that teaches students lifelong skills for self-regulation and emotional awareness. The SDCOE has graciously donated items to be used in our school’s calming corners.

Through this training, staff learned best practices for:

Teaching students how and when to use a Calming Corner
Supporting emotional regulation in age-appropriate ways
Helping students return to learning feeling calm, confident, and ready
Creating inclusive, supportive classroom environments

The benefits of Calming Corners for students include:

Increased ability to manage strong emotions
Improved focus and readiness to learn
Reduced classroom disruptions
Stronger social-emotional skills and independence

Our goal is to ensure that all students feel safe, supported, and equipped with strategies to navigate challenges—both in and out of the classroom. We are committed to this and will be providing a calming corner in every classroom on our campus.

NO Place for Hate

Here is our pledge so that you can practice with your child at home too:

Friends of Pacific Beach Elementary (FOPBE)

Please connect with our parent partners at: pacificbeachelementary@gmail.com

Parent/Family Handbook

Did you know that our handbook answers many questions that you may have. Please refer to our 2025-2026 Parent/family handbook here.

The Penguin Press

Week 26 Grading Period 2 February 17, 2026

We kicked off the with our amazing parent community as we launch this year’s Penguin Dash pep Rally. Penguin Dash is one of our biggest fundraisers of the year, and it plays an important role in supporting the incredible learning experiences we are able to offer our students at PBE.

Funds raised through Penguin Dash help provide amazing enrichment opportunities, including our school Garden program, San Diego Youth Science, and many other hands-on, engaging learning experiences that make our school such a special place for children to learn and grow.

Your support—whether through participation, encouragement, or donations—directly impacts our students and helps ensure these meaningful opportunities continue for all learners.

Thank you to our amazing parent partners for being such a supportive and generous part of our school community. We can’t wait to celebrate Penguin Dash together!

These students were caught demonstrating one of the seven habits of highly effective people last week:

4: Cromar Cameron and Luci
TK: LP and Crawford Elton and Milo
2: Taylor Sawyer and Avni
5/4: Reynolds Kirra and Maddie
2: Atwell Chance and Esme
TK: Alba & Arsoni Scarlett and Victoria
3/4: Raugewitz Iker and Hazel
1: Denenberg/Marquardt Leo and Presley
3: Warner Mya W. and Ryder
TK: LP and Crawford Milo and Elton
K: Sette Kaia and Cooper

It’s great to be a Penguin!

With penguin pride,

Dr. Karon Schnitzer

Dates to Remember

February 13th and 16th- No School- Presidents’ Day Weekend
February 20th- Penguin Dash Jog-a-thon
February 21st- Core Academy
February 23rd- FOPBE Meeting- 5:30-6:30
February 24th- Principal Meeting on projected enrollment and staffing for 26-27 at 7:55 in PD Room
February 23- NO Morning Huddle- Moved to Wednesday, February 25th
February 25th- Morning Huddle and Leader in Me Lighthouse Review Day!
February 26th- No School- See details below
March 7th- Gulls Game- Details to Come
March 9th- There will be school on this previously designated non-instructional day due to the closure on 2/26.
March 17th- SSC 2:30-3:30
March 25th- FOPBE Meeting 5:30-6:30
March 26th and 27th- Minimum Days wit dismissal at 12:15 for Spring Conferences
March 30-April 3- SPRING BREAK-
April 6th- School Resumes
April 16th- OPEN HOUSE and PB Town Council Community Expo- 5:00-6:00
April 21st- SSC 2:30-3:30
April 23rd- FOPBE Meeting 5:30-6:30
April 24th- FOPBE Auction- Details to Come
May 25th- No School- Memorial Day
May 27th- Kindergarten Promotion
May 28th- Fifth Grade Promotion- 8:00-9:00 and Last Day of School- Enjoy your Summer!!!

PENGUIN DASH FUNDRAISING AND PRIZE ALERT! 🎉

🍪 The first class with 100% of students registered in Pledgestar wins a Cookie Party + FREE In-N-Out Burger! 🍔

🍪 The first class where every student sends at least ONE donation/pledge request ALSO wins a Cookie Party + FREE In-N-Out Burger! 🍔

Our goal is $40,000 and we’ve already raised $16,061 — way to go, Penguins!! 🙌💙

That’s just $135 per student to keep all the amazing programs, activities, and educational experiences we love and that make PBE so special! ✨

So fire up those lemonade stands 🍋, reach out to family and neighbors 📱, and remember — every single $1 counts! 💛

🐧🎉 Penguin Dash is happening on Friday, February 20th! 🎉🐧

Parents are welcome to come cheer 📣, run alongside the kids 🏃, and help scan laps ✔️ — the more energy, the better! 🙌✨

We can do this, Penguins!!! 🐧💪

It’s Black History Month!

February is Black History Month, a time when we intentionally honor and celebrate the achievements, contributions, and lasting impact of Black Americans throughout history and today.

Leader in Me Lighthouse Review Day is February 25th!!

We are thrilled to share that our Leader in Me Lighthouse Review is scheduled for February 25th—how exciting!

So, what does this mean?

We are so proud of our students and staff and grateful for the partnership of our families in supporting this work. Thank you for being part of what makes our school shine!

School-Drop off/Pick-Up Safety

PBE is Hosting Summer School This Year

Session 1: Summer Academic Morning Program and Summer Afternoon Prime Time Program will be open at 52 sites:
- Thursday, June 4 – Thursday, July 2; no school Friday, June 19. (8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
- Summer Afternoon Prime Time Program (12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
Session 2: Summer PrimeTime Enrichment:
- July 6 through July 17 (8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)

State-wide CAASPP Testing is Almost Here!

Did you know that you can practice these tests with your child before they test later this spring? Here’s how:

Missoula Children’s Theatre Sign-Up

Go to Practice and Training Tests:

Then select Practice and Training Tests for Students:

Don’t toggle anything, just select sign-in:

Select grader from drop down:

Then scroll to test Smarter Balanced:

No sign in is required. They can practice from any de

FOPSS Missoula Children’s Theatre is Coming Soon!

Here is a direct link to the sign-up form:

New Leader in Me Song

This School is Our School

Chorus

This land is your land,
This school is our school,
From the growing garden,
To the kinder playground.
From the cafeteria
To the green grass field,
This school was made for you and me.

Verse 1

We are all leaders, brave and kind,
We set big goals, and grow our minds.
We solve our problems, we work together,
This school was made for you and me.

Verse 2

So when we’re reading, counting, creating,
Dreaming big and celebrating,
We lift each other, we all belong here,
This school was made for you and me.

Chorus (Repeat)

This land is your land,
This school is our school,
From the growing garden
To the kinder playground.
From the cafeteria
To the green grass field,
This school was made for PBE.

No School on February 26, 2026

On January 8th, the teacher’s union announced a one-day strike on February 26, 2026 regarding Special Education staffing issues as part of a statewide California Teacher’s Association initiative to bring educator pay and benefits in alignment with generous school districts like San Diego Unified.

Because it is important for us to maintain a healthy and harmonious learning environment for our students, along with maintaining the amount of instructional minutes, SDUSD will honor the SDEA strike and close schools on February 26, 2026. Closing schools for one day will ensure that students are not placed in situations where adequate supervision, instructional continuity, and campus safety cannot be reliably maintained. The make-up date for classes will be on March 9th to ensure students receive the instructional time and services to support their success.

Resources to answer any questions you may have:

An downloadable informational flyer with important facts – Linked here.
A website with detailed information and frequently asked questions – Linked here.
A link here to our Special Education Press Conference footage with details on our work to improve special education.
A link here to invite families to sign our petition to fully fund special education.

PBE is Looking for PALS

PBE is looking for PALS! Pals is Parents at Lunch Support. Are you available to volunteer Mondays, Tuesday, Thursday, and/or Fridays from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.?

Media Release Form

During the school year, schools host events where representatives of the news media may be on campus to gather photographs and/or video footage.

(Please complete THIS FORM form for EACH individual child).

After-School Programs

For questions, please contact Extended Learning Opportunities, PrimeTime Office at (858) 503-1870 or email primetime@sandi.net.!

PBE School Site Council (SSC)

PBE Mission and Vision Statements

Our classes have been working on mission statements too. Ask your child what their mission statement is.

Communication

PBE is Leader in Me

What You’ll See in a Leader in Me School

Students leading assemblies, helping in the community, or welcoming visitors
Leadership roles in classrooms (like greeters, tech helpers, or kindness leaders)
Students tracking their goals in “Leadership Notebooks”
A positive, respectful school culture where everyone contributes

On Monday, January 26, all students in grades K–5 began sharing their Leader in Me Leadership Notebooks with classmates as part of our continued growth as a Leader in Me School.

This experience offers many benefits for students, including:

Building confidence and public speaking skills
Practicing reflection and goal-setting
Learning from one another’s strengths and ideas
Strengthening accountability and ownership of learning
Developing empathy, respect, and positive peer connections

In Case You Missed it- Our Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Was a Success!

This beautiful event was very well covered by press. Here are the links to the news release, photos, video, TV news coverage, and web articles.

San Diego Live Data X Post:https://x.com/619SDLD/status/2018780594813984884?s=20

TV News Coverage (NBC, Fox5/KUSI, CBS 8, Channel 10, Telemundo)

News Web Articles:

Fox 5/KUSI: https://fox5sandiego.com/news/local-news/pacific-beach-elementary-new-building/

CBS 8: https://www.cbs8.com/article/news/local/pacific-beach-elementary-celebrates-opening-of-new-tk-and-kindergarten-building/509-8a65cfec-7d01-4008-b588-a1e88d3411ed

NBC 7: https://www.nbcsandiego.com/video/videos/pb-elementary-celebrates-major-classroom-campus-upgrades/3971157/

District News Release (on news center): PBES Celebrates Campus Transformation – San Diego Unified School District

Drone video, ground, and drone photos can be found here

Social Media:

Friends of Pacific Beach Elementary (FOPBE) Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/FOPBE/posts/pfbid02g2DWYNnqYBZFCYLEYpy5yGXKfiy7fxtvErubzvWu57vbEUsHd4ejXbgBxEHmZNqhl

KUSI Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/KUSINews/posts/pfbid0372XWBoftHXrph88nQ3JE86SsDY5QXeJhegKUmRw8HcDAJPJro5Qgk4AF9N8CCFBwl

CBS 8 Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1528662901558183

San Diego Live Data Facebook Post:https://www.facebook.com/SanDiegoLiveData/posts/pfbid0D9TjEvMkMMwhSD5cSoFwaxtDco3V1TfHSxkSSuPSKukchb4EkZNLfcWtxCEXZLF4l

CBS 8 Instagram Post #1: https://www.instagram.com/p/DURoKMECT0g/

CBS 8 Instagram Post #2: https://www.instagram.com/p/DUR4BAaiqN9/

CBS 8 X Post: https://x.com/CBS8/status/2018456157497467132?s=20

School-Wide Expectations

As we strive to cultivate a positive and supportive learning environment at PBE, I wanted to take a moment to remind you of our school-wide expectations, which are:

Be Safe

Be Respectful

Be Responsible

Be Kind

MTSS at PBE

Please find our MTSS Handbook HERE

Please find our Restorative Discipline Policy Here

Last week, our staff participated in professional learning led by the San Diego County Office of Education focused on the effective use of Calming Corners in classrooms.

Through this training, staff learned best practices for:

Teaching students how and when to use a Calming Corner
Supporting emotional regulation in age-appropriate ways
Helping students return to learning feeling calm, confident, and ready
Creating inclusive, supportive classroom environments

The benefits of Calming Corners for students include:

Increased ability to manage strong emotions
Improved focus and readiness to learn
Reduced classroom disruptions
Stronger social-emotional skills and independence

NO Place for Hate

Here is our pledge so that you can practice with your child at home too:

Friends of Pacific Beach Elementary (FOPBE)

Please connect with our parent partners at: pacificbeachelementary@gmail.com

Parent/Family Handbook

Did you know that our handbook answers many questions that you may have. Please refer to our 2025-2026 Parent/family handbook here.

The Penguin Press

Week 25 Grading Period February 9, 2026

We kicked off the week by celebrating an exciting milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony proudly led by our students and joined by our incredible community. We were honored to welcome our community partners, Superintendent Fabi Bagula, and Trustee Cody Petterson, alongside our dedicated students and staff. This moment reflects the power of student leadership, collaboration, and shared commitment to creating inspiring spaces for learning. Thank you to everyone who helped make this celebration—and this vision—come to life!

This beautiful event was very well covered by press. Here are the links to the news release, photos, video, TV news coverage, and web articles.

San Diego Live Data X Post:https://x.com/619SDLD/status/2018780594813984884?s=20

TV News Coverage (NBC, Fox5/KUSI, CBS 8, Channel 10, Telemundo)

News Web Articles:

Fox 5/KUSI: https://fox5sandiego.com/news/local-news/pacific-beach-elementary-new-building/

CBS 8: https://www.cbs8.com/article/news/local/pacific-beach-elementary-celebrates-opening-of-new-tk-and-kindergarten-building/509-8a65cfec-7d01-4008-b588-a1e88d3411ed

NBC 7: https://www.nbcsandiego.com/video/videos/pb-elementary-celebrates-major-classroom-campus-upgrades/3971157/

District News Release (on news center): PBES Celebrates Campus Transformation – San Diego Unified School District