PSUSD preps for upcoming school year
The City of Palm Springs is gearing up for the start of the new school year next week — PSUSD staff members are receiving special training in advance of the first day of school. PSUSD has 105 new staff members, in addition to some new policy changes.
For the first time ever, the district will be offering free school lunches to all students.
“A hungry student can’t learn, and we want to make sure that the students have the nourishment they need to pay attention and absorb all the wonderful programs that our teachers have to offer,” said Stephanie Bruce, PSUSD’s Director of Nutrition Services.
Additionally, the district is aiming to improve security measures to keep students safe.
“We have a great security department that’s really been working on training all of our staff on being aware and what to be looking for…it’s really a matter of being proactive on our school sites,” said Dr. Denise Ellis, PSUSD’s Director of Certificated Human Resources.
Starting this school year, every PSUSD elementary school will now be a “closed campus” — meaning all visitors will have to formally check in.
“With trying to secure the campuses, we’re looking to create a one-way-in one-way-out process, so we can monitor who is coming into our schools,” said Rudy Villarreal, PSUSD’s Director of Security and Disaster Preparedness.
Security staff are also receiving active shooter training and working to improve communication between security and students.
“We’re trying to develop connections with students and letting them know that we’re creating a safe environment, and we’re here to help them,” said Villarreal.
The district is also acknowledging undocumented students who might be affected by current immigration policy — offering resources online and counseling services to any student in need.
“Our focus is to have kids in school. so we want them to feel welcome to come to school, and not be afraid to come to school … and know that’s a safe place,” said Dr. Ellis.
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