CELEBRATING SCHOOL COUNSELORS — Team Duval is proud to recognize National School Counseling Week and the incredible impact our more than 240 school counselors make every single day. They advocate for students, help them navigate their academic journeys, and guide them toward their goals. Our success as an A-rated district with a 97.6% graduation rate would not be possible without these dedicated professionals. As part of this special week, dozens of counselors gathered at the Schultz Center for their annual conference, focused on building student “superpowers” like grit and resilience – perfectly aligned with the national theme of helping students thrive and preparing them for college, career, and life. Their commitment to growing their own “superpowers” directly fuels student success across Team Duval. Join us in thanking our outstanding school counselors for the lasting difference they make in our schools and community!
📅 Week of March 9 – March 13, 2026
Good Afternoon Raider Nation Families,
Here are the key updates for Raider Nation this week at Westside Middle School.
• Quarter 3 is in its final week
• DMA 3 make-up testing is underway
• St. Patrick’s Spirit Dress Down Days are happening this week
• Boys Baseball, Girls Softball, and Track schedules are now live
• 8th Grade Graduation Week payments are open
Please review the important updates below.
🏫 Schoolwide Update
Westside Middle School is a uniform school, and students must wear the appropriate Westside logo shirt for their grade level each day.
The following items are not permitted as part of the dress code:
• Leggings
• Jeans or jeans with rips
• Cutoff shorts
• Tights
• Jeggings
• Sweatpants
• Hoodies
• Shiesty masks
Additionally, we have seen an increase in students bringing items that disrupt instruction.
The following items should not be brought to school:
• Stuffed animals
• Blankets
• Unauthorized technology such as tablets
🚫 Selling Items on Campus
Students are not permitted to sell items on campus.
Per Duval County Public Schools policy, students may not sell or distribute items on school grounds unless the activity has been approved by school administration as part of an official school-sponsored fundraiser.
Unauthorized selling of snacks, candy, merchandise, or other items will result in confiscation and disciplinary consequences.
📊 Quarter 3 Grades & DMA 3 Scores
This week marks the final week of Quarter 3.
Students should remain focused and complete any outstanding assignments that may help improve their grades before the quarter closes.
Schoolwide DMA 3 testing has concluded, and teachers are currently conducting make-up testing for students who were absent.
DMA 3 serves as an important indicator of how students may perform on statewide assessments approaching in May.
Parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to review their student’s academic progress through their Parent Portal accounts and FOCUS.
Upcoming state assessments include:
📘 PM3 — ELA
📗 PM3 — Mathematics
🏛️ Civics EOC — Grades 7 & 8
🔬 Science EOC — Grade 8
🧬 Biology EOC
Families can access additional testing resources here:
https://flfast.org/families.html
👕 St. Patrick’s Spirit Dress Down Days
Dress Down Days are taking place March 10–12.
💵 Cost: $4.99 per day
Payments must be made in person at school.
Themes:
✔ March 10 — Nerd or Jersey Day (Complete)
🍀 March 11 — Leprechaun Day
🛌 March 12 — Pajama Day (must still follow dress code)
March 13 — Students return to uniforms.
Students who arrive dressed down without payment must call home and change into uniform.
🚫 Students on the DNA List are not permitted to participate in Dress Down Days.
⚾🥎🏃 Raider Athletics Update
The Boys Baseball, Girls Softball, and Track schedules are now live.
Please review the attached schedule graphics for upcoming games and track meets.
🎟️ Tickets for Raider athletic events can be purchased through GoFan:
https://gofan.co/app/school/FL25644
Come out and support our Raider student-athletes.
🎓 8th Grade Graduation Week Information
We are excited to celebrate the Westside Middle School Class of 2026.
Graduation Week Events include:
🎮 Dave & Buster’s — May 11
🍽️ Sign & Dine — May 18
🎡 Raider Carnival — May 19
🎓 Graduation Ceremony — May 21
💃 Raider Ball — May 22 (Invitation Only)
💻 Payments must be completed through:
https://dcps.schoolcashonline.com/
Parents should:
1️⃣ Create a SchoolCashOnline account
2️⃣ Create a login and password
3️⃣ Add your student using their student ID number OR their first name, last name, and date of birth
4️⃣ Search for Westside Middle School
📅 Payment Window: March 9 – May 10
🚫 Raider Ball is invitation-only
🚫 Students on the DNA List cannot participate in 8th Grade Week activities
🚫 DNA List Reminder
Students placed on the DNA List are barred from all extracurricular and after-school activities including:
• Sporting events
• Team-Up
• Clubs
• Performances
• Field trips
• Dress Down Days
• 8th Grade Week activities
#RaiderNation
#OneWestside
#RaiderReady
#UrgencyInAction
#TeamDuval
#WestsideStrong
#FutureReadyRaiders
📢 Raider Nation Weekly Updates
📅 Week of March 9 – March 13, 2026
Good Morning Raider Nation Families,
Here are the key updates for this week at Westside Middle School.
This week marks the final week of Quarter 3, Dress Down Days begin tomorrow, and our spring athletic schedules are now available.
Please review the important information below.
🏫 Schoolwide Update
Westside Middle School is a uniform school, and students must wear the appropriate Westside logo shirt for their grade level each day.
The following items are not permitted as part of the dress code:
• Leggings
• Jeans or jeans with rips
• Cutoff shorts
• Tights
• Jeggings
• Sweatpants
• Hoodies
• Shiesty masks
Additionally, we have seen an increase in students bringing items that disrupt instruction.
The following items should not be brought to school:
• Stuffed animals
• Blankets
• Unauthorized technology such as tablets
These items have become instructional distractions and interfere with learning.
📊 Quarter 3 Grades & DMA 3 Scores
This week marks the final week of Quarter 3.
Students should remain focused and complete any outstanding assignments that may help improve their grades before the quarter closes.
Schoolwide DMA 3 testing has concluded, and teachers are currently conducting make-up testing for students who were absent.
DMA 3 serves as an important indicator of how students may perform on statewide assessments approaching in May.
Parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to review their student’s academic progress through their Parent Portal accounts and FOCUS.
Upcoming assessments include:
PM3 — ELA
PM3 — Mathematics
Civics EOC — Grades 7 & 8
Science EOC — Grade 8
Biology EOC
Families can access additional testing information and resources here:
https://flfast.org/families.html
Please ensure your student remains focused and prepared as we approach statewide testing season.
👕 St. Patrick’s Spirit Dress Down Days
Westside Middle School will celebrate Spirit Dress Down Days from March 10 through March 12.
Cost: $4.99 per day
Payments must be made in person at school. Online payments are not accepted.
Dress Down Themes:
March 10 — Nerd or Jersey Day
Students may dress as a nerd or wear their favorite sports jersey.
March 11 — Leprechaun Day
Students may wear green, gold, or leprechaun-themed apparel.
March 12 — Pajama Day
Students may wear pajamas; however, outfits must still follow the school dress code.
March 13 — Students return to uniforms.
Students who arrive dressed down without payment will be required to call home and change into uniform.
Students on the DNA List are not permitted to participate in Dress Down Days.
⚾🥎🏃 Raider Athletics Update
The Boys Baseball, Girls Softball, and Track schedules are now live.
Please review the attached schedule graphics for upcoming games and track meets.
Tickets for Raider athletic events can be purchased through GoFan:
https://gofan.co/app/school/FL25644
Come out and support our Raider student-athletes.
🎓 8th Grade Graduation Week Information
We are excited to celebrate the Westside Middle School Class of 2026.
Graduation Week Events include:
Dave & Buster’s — May 11
Sign & Dine — May 18
Raider Carnival — May 19
Graduation Ceremony — May 21
Raider Ball — May 22 (Invitation Only)
All payments must be completed through:
https://dcps.schoolcashonline.com/
Parents should:
1️⃣ Create a SchoolCashOnline account
2️⃣ Create a login and password
3️⃣ Add your student using their student ID number OR their first name, last name, and date of birth
4️⃣ Search for Westside Middle School
Payment Window: March 9 – May 10
The Raider Ball is invitation-only.
Students on the DNA List cannot participate in 8th Grade Week activities.
🚫 DNA List Reminder
Students placed on the DNA List are barred from all extracurricular and after-school activities, including:
• Sporting events
• Team-Up
• Clubs
• Performances
• Field trips
• Dress Down Days
• 8th Grade Week activities
This restriction applies even if a parent attends the event.
#RaiderNation
#OneWestside
#RaiderReady
#UrgencyInAction
#TeamDuval
#WestsideStrong
#FutureReadyRaiders
📅 Week of March 9 – March 13
Good Afternoon Raider Nation Families,
Here are the key updates for this week at Westside Middle School:
• Quarter 3 ending soon & DMA 3 testing updates
• St. Patrick’s Spirit Dress Down Days (March 10–12)
• Boys Baseball & Girls Softball schedules finalized
• 8th Grade Graduation Week payments open March 9 – May 10
Please review the important details below.
🏫 Schoolwide Update
Westside Middle School is a uniform school, and students must wear the appropriate Westside logo shirt for their grade level each day.
🚫 The following items are not permitted as part of the dress code:
• Leggings
• Jeans or jeans with rips
• Cutoff shorts
• Tights
• Jeggings
• Sweatpants
• Shiesty masks
We have also seen an increase in students bringing items that disrupt instruction.
🚫 The following items are prohibited on campus:
• Stuffed animals
• Blankets
• Unauthorized technology (tablets)
These items have become instructional barriers and should not be brought to school.
📊 Quarter 3 Grades & DMA 3 Scores
This upcoming week is the final week of Quarter 3.
Students should remain focused and complete any outstanding assignments that may improve their grades before the quarter closes.
Schoolwide DMA 3 testing has concluded, and teachers are currently conducting make-up testing.
DMA 3 serves as an important litmus test for how students may perform on statewide assessments approaching in May.
Parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to review student progress through their Parent Portal Accounts and FOCUS.
Upcoming assessments include:
📘 PM3 — ELA
📗 PM3 — Mathematics
🏛️ Civics EOC (Grades 7 & 8)
🔬 Grade 8 Science EOC
🧬 Biology EOC
Families can access additional testing resources here:
https://flfast.org/families.html
👕 St. Patrick’s Spirit Dress Down Days
Raider Nation will celebrate Spirit Dress Down Days from March 10–12.
💵 Cost: $4.99 per day (paid in person at school)
🚫 Online payments are not accepted
Dress Down Themes:
🧠🏈 March 10 — Nerd or Jersey Day
Students may dress as a Nerd or their favorite Sports Star/Jersey
🍀 March 11 — Leprechaun Day
Students may wear green, gold, or leprechaun themed apparel
🛌 March 12 — PJ Day
Students may wear pajamas, however outfits must still follow the school dress code
👕 March 13 — Students return to uniforms
Important reminders:
• Students must pay before participating
• Students who come dressed down without payment must call home and change into uniform
• Students on the DNA List are NOT permitted to participate
📎 Please review the attached flyer for visuals and theme examples.
⚾🥎 Raider Athletics Update
The Boys Baseball and Girls Softball schedules have been finalized.
📎 Please review the attached schedules for game dates and locations.
🎟️ Tickets can be purchased online through GoFan:
https://gofan.co/app/school/FL25644
Come out and support our Raider student-athletes.
🎓 8th Grade Graduation Week Information
We are excited to celebrate our Westside Middle School Class of 2026.
Graduation Week Events
🎮 Dave & Buster’s — May 11
🍽️ Sign & Dine — May 18
🎡 Raider Carnival — May 19
🎓 Graduation Ceremony — May 21
💃 Raider Ball — May 22 (Invitation Only)
💻 All payments must be made through:
https://dcps.schoolcashonline.com/
Parents should:
1️⃣ Create a SchoolCashOnline account
2️⃣ Create a login and password
3️⃣ Add your student using their student ID number OR first name, last name, and date of birth
4️⃣ Search for Westside Middle School
📅 Payment Window: March 9 – May 10
🚨 Raider Ball is invitation-only
🚨 Students on the DNA List cannot participate in 8th Grade Week
🚫 DNA List (Do Not Admit)
Students placed on the DNA List are barred from all extracurricular and after-school activities, including:
• Sporting events
• Team-Up
• Clubs
• Performances
• Field trips
• Dress Down Days
• 8th Grade Week activities
This restriction applies even if a parent attends the event.
📢 Please share this post with other Raider families so everyone stays informed.
#RaiderNation
#OneWestside
#RaiderReady
#UrgencyInAction
#TeamDuval
#WestsideStrong
#FutureReadyRaiders
Raider Nation, here is what you need to know to keep your scholar safe, prepared, and focused.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
FAMILY ENGAGEMENT EVENING – TONIGHT
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
5:30 PM – Title I Mid-Year Stakeholder Meeting (Media Center)
6:00 PM – SWAG Night
At 5:30 PM, we will review our School Improvement Plan and discuss how Title I funds are directly supporting student achievement.
At 6:00 PM, families will receive reading strategies for home, updates on campus safety measures, clarification on uniform expectations, and a mid-year growth update.
When home and school move in alignment, students win. Your presence matters.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
ATHLETICS UPDATES
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
Girls Basketball Playoff Game
Away at Kernan Middle School – Today
Girls Softball Tryouts – Today (Final Day)
Boys Baseball Tryouts – Today
Boys & Girls Track Tryouts – Continue through February 27
Physical Van on Campus – Today
Physical forms are available in the front office and during lunches.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
DMA 3 TESTING REMINDER
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
February 25 – 6th Grade Math
February 26 – 7th Grade Math
March 2 – Algebra & 8th Grade Math
March 3 – 8th Grade Civics
March 4 – 7th Grade Civics
March 5 – Biology & 8th Grade Science
DMA 3 allows us to monitor growth and adjust instruction before state assessments.
Please ensure students:
Arrive on time
Get proper rest
Eat breakfast
We are focused. We are prepared. We are growing.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
DEVICE EXPECTATIONS
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
To protect instructional time:
• Cell phones must remain OFF and stored in a backpack, purse, or bookbag from arrival until dismissal.
• Phones may not be carried in pockets or on the student’s person during the school day.
• Wireless headphones (AirPods, Bluetooth earbuds, etc.) are prohibited.
• Tablets and other personal electronic devices may not be brought to school.
These items have increasingly become distractions to instruction. Protecting learning time is non-negotiable.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
UNIFORM UPDATE
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
Due to projected temperature drops through February 25, hoodies are permitted today and tomorrow only.
Beginning Thursday, February 26, uniform and dress code expectations will be strictly enforced.
Logo uniforms required daily:
6th – Red
7th – Black
8th – Grey
Prohibited items include:
• Masks (including shiesty-style face coverings)
• Pajamas
• Slides/house shoes
• Crocs without back straps
• Ripped pants
• Tights/leggings worn as pants
• Sweatpants not in dress code
• Jeggings
• Non-uniform outerwear
Student IDs are required daily.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
DNA LIST (DO NOT ADMIT)
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
Students placed on the DNA List are temporarily restricted from after-school activities including sporting events, Team-Up, clubs, performances, and field trips.
Placement may occur for:
• Level 3 or 4 referrals
• Level 2 referrals with points
• Four Level 1 referrals with points
Length of placement ranges from 30, 90, or 180 days depending on the infraction.
Accountability builds growth.
Questions? Call 904-573-1000.
Let’s stay Raider Ready.
#RaiderNation
#WestsideMiddle
#RaiderReady
#UrgencyInAction
Raider Nation Updates February 23rd – 27th
Here’s what you need to know to keep your Raider safe, prepared, and focused this week.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
📚 FAMILY ENGAGEMENT EVENING – FEBRUARY 24
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕠 5:30 PM – Title I Mid-Year Stakeholder Meeting (Media Center)
🕕 6:00 PM – SWAG Night
At 5:30 PM, we will review our School Improvement Plan and discuss how Title I funds support student achievement.
At 6:00 PM, we will provide reading strategies for home, review safety measures, clarify uniform expectations, and share school growth progress.
This work directly supports student achievement and strengthens the home-school partnership.
Your presence matters.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🏆 ATHLETICS UPDATES
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🏀 Girls Basketball Playoff Game
Away at Kernan Middle School – February 24
🥎 Girls Softball Tryouts – February 23–24
⚾ Boys Baseball Tryouts – February 24
🏃 Boys & Girls Track Tryouts – February 24–27
⛑ Physical Van on Campus – February 24
Forms available in the front office and at lunches.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
📊 DMA 3 TESTING UPDATE
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
• February 25 – 6th Grade Math
• February 26 – 7th Grade Math
• March 2 – Algebra & 8th Grade Math
• March 3 – 8th Grade Civics
• March 4 – 7th Grade Civics
• March 5 – Biology & 8th Grade Science
DMA 3 data helps us monitor progress toward end-of-year goals.
Please ensure students:
✔ Arrive on time
✔ Get proper rest
✔ Eat breakfast
We are confident in our Raiders and ready to show growth.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
📱 DEVICE EXPECTATIONS
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
To protect instructional time and reduce distractions:
• Cell phones must remain OFF and stored in a backpack, purse, or bookbag from arrival until dismissal.
• Phones may not be carried in pockets or worn during the school day.
• Wireless headphones (AirPods, Bluetooth earbuds, etc.) are prohibited.
• Tablets and other personal electronic devices may not be brought to school.
These devices have increasingly become a distraction to instruction. Our priority is protecting learning time and maintaining focus.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
👕 UNIFORM UPDATE
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
Due to projected temperature drops February 23–25, hoodies will be permitted during these dates only.
Masks (including shiesty-style face coverings) remain prohibited.
Beginning Thursday, February 26, uniform and dress code expectations will be strictly enforced.
Logo uniforms required daily:
6th – Red | 7th – Black | 8th – Grey
Prohibited Items Include:
• Masks
• Pajamas
• Slides/house shoes
• Crocs without back straps
• Ripped pants
• Tights/leggings as pants
• Sweatpants not in dress code
• Jeggings
• Non-uniform outerwear
🆔 Student IDs required daily
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🔒 DNA LIST (Do Not Admit)
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
Students placed on the DNA List are temporarily restricted from after-school activities, including sporting events, Team-Up, clubs, performances, and field trips.
Placement may occur for:
• Level 3 or 4 referrals
• Level 2 referrals with points
• Four Level 1 referrals with points
Students may remain on the list for 30, 90, or 180 days depending on the infraction.
Our goal is accountability and growth.
Questions? Call 904-573-1000.
Let’s stay Raider Ready.
#RaiderNation
#WestsideMiddle
#FamilyEngagement
#RaiderReady
This week, our families showed up.
🦷 Thank you for supporting Big Smiles Dental.
Great news — the Big Smiles team will return on February 26 to complete services for the remaining students.
👔 Thank you to every father and father figure who attended our Father Engagement Seminar.
When families show up, students rise up. We appreciate you.
Here’s what’s next 👇
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🏆 ATHLETICS UPDATE
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🥎 Girls Softball Tryouts
February 23–24
4:30–6:00 PM
🏃 Track & Field Conditioning
February 24–27
4:30–6:00 PM
Please ensure paperwork and physicals are completed. Tryouts begin next week.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
📚 FAMILY ENGAGEMENT EVENING
Tuesday, February 24
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕠 5:30 PM – Title I Mid-Year Stakeholder Meeting (Media Center)
🕕 6:00 PM – SWAG Night
We will discuss:
• School improvement updates
• Title I funding priorities
• Reading strategies for home
• School safety measures
• Uniform expectations
• School growth progress
Make February 24 a priority. Your voice matters.
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
📌 DAILY EXPECTATIONS
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🚗 Drop-Off: 9:05 AM | Gates: 9:10 AM
🕓 Dismissal: 4:05 PM
👕 Logo uniforms required daily
6th – Red | 7th – Black | 8th – Grey
No hoodies. The outermost layer must match the grade level.
🆔 Student IDs required daily
📵 Cell phones must remain off and away
🚫 Students may not sell items on campus unless it is an approved fundraiser.
Will we see you on February 24? Drop a 👍 in the comments.
Let’s keep Raider Nation safe, focused, and Urgent in Action.
#RaiderNation
#WestsideMiddle
#RaiderReady
#UrgencyInAction
#FamilyEngagement
We hope everyone enjoyed the long weekend. Here are important updates and upcoming events you need to know:
🦷 BIG SMILES DENTAL – February 18
Services have moved to February 18.
Register here: https://www.myschooldentist.com/37244_schsrm-
Please return the flyer so your Raider can receive services on campus.
👔 FATHER ENGAGEMENT SEMINAR – February 17 at 5:00 PM
In partnership with 5000 Role Models and Northeast Florida Healthy Start Coalition’s Fatherhood PRIDE, we’re hosting:
Parenting Through Child Development: Supporting Your Child Through the Middle School Years.
Research shows that engaged fathers directly impact student achievement and behavior. Join us.
🏃 TRACK TRYOUTS – February 24 (4:30–6:00 PM)
Sports Physicals will also be conducted on campus on February 24.
🚫 STUDENTS MAY NOT SELL ITEMS ON CAMPUS
Including food. Unauthorized sales will result in confiscation and consequences per the Code of Conduct.
All fundraisers must be approved through a school club or organization.
🚗 SAFETY REMINDERS
• Use designated crosswalks
• Phones down, headphones low
• Walk directly home after school
• Consider bright clothing or vests for walkers
Drop-Off: 9:05 AM | Gates Open: 9:10 AM
Dismissal: 4:05 PM
👕 UNIFORM REMINDER
Logo uniforms are mandatory.
Grade Colors:
6th – Red
7th – Black
8th – Grey
Order here: https://totalimpactjax.com/westside-middle-school/
Full dress code: https://www.duvalschools.org/o/wms/page/uniforms-dress-code
No hoodies. The outermost layer must be grade-level color.
🆔 STUDENT IDs REQUIRED DAILY
IDs support safety, cafeteria checkout, and bus boarding.
📵 CELL PHONE POLICY UPDATE
Under Florida House Bill 1105, students may not use phones or smart devices during the school day. Devices must remain off and away from arrival to dismissal.
🚫 DNA LIST (Do Not Admit)
Students placed on the DNA list are barred from after-school events.
If you have questions, call the main office at 904-573-1000.
📅 UPCOMING DATES
2/16 – Presidents Day (No School)
2/17 – Boys Soccer vs JWJ 6:15 PM
2/18 – Girls Soccer vs JWJ 5:00 PM | Basketball 5:00 PM & 7:15 PM
2/24 – Stakeholder Meeting 5:30 PM (Media Center)
2/24 – Student Physicals
Submit anonymous safety tips anytime:
https://getfortifyfl.com/
Let’s stay safe, stay focused, and stay Raider Ready.
#RaiderNation
#WestsideMiddle
#RaiderReady
#EveryWordEveryNumberEveryStep
#StudentSafetyFirst
#FathersMatter
#EngagedFamilies
#MiddleSchoolMatters
#DuvalSchools
#RaidersOnTheRise
We are kicking off an important week at Westside Middle School. Please review the reminders below.
👕 Uniform Enforcement Begins This Week
As we approach spring, our uniform policy is being strictly enforced starting today.
Students must wear:
• Approved collared shirts
• Khaki or navy bottoms
• Closed-toe shoes
• School-approved outerwear only
The following are not part of the dress code and should not be worn:
• Shiesty masks
• Tights worn as pants
• Jeggings
• Sweatpants
• Hoodies or non-school jackets
Please ensure your Raider arrives Raider Ready each day.
👨🏾👧🏾 Fathers of Raider Nation – Tomorrow at 5:00 PM
On Tuesday, February 17 at 5:00 PM, we are partnering with 5000 Role Models of Excellence and Northeast Florida Healthy Start Coalition Fatherhood PRIDE to host:
“Parenting Through Child Development: Supporting Your Child Through the Middle School Years.”
This seminar will provide practical tools to help fathers support academic success, positive behavior, and strong communication during the middle school years.
🦷 Big Smiles Dental – Wednesday at 9:15 AM
Big Smiles Dental will provide free dental services on campus. Please return consent forms to the Main Office or register online at myschooldentist.com.
Let’s have a focused and successful week, Raider Nation.
#RaiderReady #EveryWordEveryNumberEveryStep
Good Afternoon Raider Nation Families 📣
Here’s what’s happening at Westside Middle School for the week of February 17–20, 2026. Please review these important updates carefully.
——————————————
👕 UNIFORM & OUTERWEAR REMINDER
——————————————
As we transition into spring, Westside Middle School will strictly enforce our district uniform policy.
Families are encouraged to review full expectations here:
https://dcps.duvalschools.org/o/wms/page/uniforms-dress-code
Key Uniform Expectations:
• Collared shirts in approved school colors
• Khaki or navy bottoms
• Closed-toe shoes
• School-approved sweaters or jackets only inside the building
The following items are NOT part of the dress code and should not be worn:
• Shiesty masks
• Tights worn as pants
• Jeggings
• Sweatpants
• Hoodies or non-school outerwear inside the building
Students must arrive Raider Ready each day. We appreciate your partnership in maintaining a focused and safe learning environment.
——————————————
👨🏾👧🏾 FATHERS OF RAIDER NATION – YOU’RE INVITED
Tuesday, February 17 | 5:00 PM
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Westside Middle School is partnering with 5000 Role Models of Excellence and Northeast Florida Healthy Start Coalition Fatherhood PRIDE to host:
“Parenting Through Child Development: Supporting Your Child Through the Middle School Years.”
This session will provide fathers with practical insight into the academic, social, and emotional changes children experience during the middle school years. Topics include:
• Effective communication strategies
• Understanding developmental milestones
• Supporting academic success
• Navigating peer influence
• Maintaining positive engagement
About Fatherhood PRIDE:
Fatherhood PRIDE is an initiative designed to increase father engagement and strengthen family systems. Through research-based programming, the organization equips fathers with tools to improve communication, promote healthy development, and positively influence academic and behavioral outcomes.
Research consistently shows that engaged fathers improve student attendance, achievement, and school behavior. We look forward to welcoming our Raider fathers.
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🦷 BIG SMILES DENTAL EVENT
Wednesday, February 18 | 9:15 AM
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We are excited to welcome Big Smiles Dental to Westside Middle School to provide free dental care services.
Big Smiles is a national school-based dental program focused on expanding access to preventive oral healthcare for children. Licensed professionals provide cleanings, exams, x-rays, sealants, and other preventive services directly on campus.
Consent forms were sent home with students.
Please return completed forms to the Main Office.
No form at home? Register online here:
https://www.myschooldentist.com/Default.aspx
Healthy smiles support healthy learners.
#RaiderReady #EveryWordEveryNumberEveryStep
Raider Nation Families,
Earlier today, families received district communication regarding the implementation of the OpenGate Weapon Detection System across all middle schools. We want to share what this looks like specifically at Westside Middle School so our Raiders can arrive prepared and stress-free.
📅 IMPORTANT DATES
🛠 Installation: Monday, January 26
🎒 Student Implementation Begins: Tuesday, January 27
🚪 UPDATED STUDENT INTAKE PROCEDURES
We have already moved to a single student intake entry point, which began earlier this week.
➡️ All students are now entering campus through the walker’s gate adjacent to the cafeteria.
👥 CSS Students
• Intake procedures remain in the same location
• Students will move through the OpenGate system housed in Building 5
🎒 ITEMS STUDENTS MUST REMOVE FROM BOOKBAGS
Before entering campus, students must remove:
• 📚 Binders
• 💻 Laptops
• ☂️ Umbrellas
• 👓 Eyeglass cases
📵 DEVICE REMINDER
Beginning Monday, January 26:
• Tablets and headphones must be kept at home
• 📱 Cell phones are permitted but must remain inside a bookbag or purse
✅ CURRENT SAFETY EXPECTATIONS REMAIN IN PLACE
• 🎒 Clear or mesh bookbags only
• 🆔 Student IDs must be worn
• 👕 Students must be in appropriate grade-level uniforms
These updates allow us to enhance campus safety while keeping arrivals smooth, orderly, and efficient for all students.
🎥 For additional details, please view the district’s informational link here: OPEN GATE
Thank you for your continued partnership and trust as we prioritize safety and learning every day at Westside Middle School.
#RaiderNation
#RaiderReady
#EveryWordEveryNumberEveryStep
Raider Nation, Holiday Craze payments END tomorrow at school.
Due to a technical issue with DCPS School Cash Online this weekend, Westside Middle School will accept CASH payments tomorrow ONLY for the remaining Holiday Craze Dress Down Days.
Tomorrow is the LAST opportunity to pay for:
🎄 Tuesday – PJ & Croc Day
💚 Wednesday – Grinch, Croc & Activity Day
💵 Cost: $4.99 per day (cash only)
📍 Payments collected at school tomorrow
Students who do not submit payment will be expected to follow the standard uniform policy on these days.
Thank you for your flexibility and partnership—Raider Nation always adjusts and keeps it moving.
Let’s close Holiday Craze strong!
#RaiderNation
#WestsideMiddleSchool
#WestsideRaiders
#HolidayCraze
#PBIS
#WMSPride
#RaiderReady
#EveryWordEveryNumberEveryStep
Busy schedule? No worries—we’ve got you covered.
🎉 HOLIDAY CRAZE WEEK IS NEXT WEEK
Students can still participate by paying ONLINE through SchoolCash Online.
⏰ The payment window closes Sunday evening.
🗓️ Holiday Craze Themes:
• Monday, Dec. 15 – Holiday Craze: All Festive Wear 🎄
• Tuesday, Dec. 16 – PJ Day 😴
• Wednesday, Dec. 17 – Grinch & Activity Day 💚
• Thursday, Dec. 18 & Friday, Dec. 19 – Back in Uniform 👕
💲 Cost: $4.99 per day
🎟️ One wristband = one dress-down day
✨ Missed lunch sales? No problem.
Parents can pay online anytime before Sunday evening at:
👉 https://dcps.schoolcashonline.com
🧾 SchoolCash Online is also used to pay for:
✔️ Field Trips
✔️ Replacement Student IDs
✔️ School Events & Activities
✔️ Other school-related fees
Let’s celebrate the season while keeping learning first. We’re proud to close the semester strong—the Raider way.
#RaiderNation #WestsideMiddleSchool #HolidayCrazeWMS
#PBIS #DCPS #RaiderPride #UrgencyInAction
🔔 Quarter 2 Report Card Update — ACTION NEEDED
🗓 Posting Window: December 8, 2025 ➜ January 5, 2026 @ 4:30pm
📲 Report Cards Published: January 14, 2026
Parents & guardians, please take a moment this evening to:
✔ Log into your Parent Portal
✔ Review your child’s grades
✔ Submit the paper-copy request form if you prefer a printed report card
Let’s stay ahead of the curve and support our scholars now — not later.
🎄 Holiday Craze Week — Let's Celebrate the Season! 🎄
✨ Dress-Down Cost:
• $4.99 per day OR
• $14.97 for all three dress-down days
🎟 Wristbands Sold: December 10th–12th during lunches
📦 Wristbands will be delivered to students on each dress-down day.
🆔 Participation Requirements:
• Students must have their ID
• Students must NOT be on the DNA list
• Students NOT dressing down must remain in full uniform
🚫 IMPORTANT: Thursday (18th) & Friday (19th) are standard uniform days only — NO dress-down permitted.
💰 All proceeds directly support the PBIS BIZI Store and schoolwide PBIS events that celebrate positive behavior and student excellence.
🧠 DMA 2 TESTING WEEK — Let’s Get Ready to Achieve!
Parents, please ensure your child:
✔ gets a full night’s rest
✔ charges their device
✔ arrives on time
✔ eats breakfast
Testing Schedule:
📘 Mon, Dec. 8 – Algebra (811, 814, 815, 816)
📗 Tue, Dec. 9 – 8th Grade Civics
📙 Wed, Dec. 10 – 7th Grade Civics
🔬 Thu, Dec. 11 – Biology & 8th Grade Science
Let’s push toward excellence — every word, every number, every step. Raider Nation, we rise together.
#RaiderNation #OneWestside #TeamDuval #UrgencyInAction #BIZI #PBIS #WestsideMiddleSchool #EveryWordEveryNumberEveryStep
We have THREE important updates for our families this week to keep every Raider charged up and ready for success.
📌 SAC MEETING – Thursday, November 20th | 5:30 PM | Media Center
Parents and guardians—your voice matters.
Join us for our School Advisory Council meeting at 5:30 PM in the Media Center. SAC is where families help guide school decisions and stay informed about Westside’s direction.
⚡ CHARGE UP INTO WINTER BREAK – Thursday, November 20th | 6:00 PM
Immediately after SAC, join us for our Charge Up Parent Night at 6:00 PM. We’ll review your child’s progress from Quarters 1 & 2, celebrate growth, and provide take-home learning resources to support success over Winter Break. ❄️✨
💻 ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORMS – Home-Learning Support
We’re also sharing our Blended-Learning Home Support Guide to help families use ONEVIEW learning platforms at home.
This includes:
• Exact Path
• StudySync
• Study Island
• Language Live
Students should complete at least one assignment per week in each program, aiming for 75% or higher, to build mastery and improve state assessment scores.
📎 A copy of the Online Platforms sheet will be sent to the email linked to your Parent Portal account.
Access platforms here: https://www.duvalschools.org/page/student-software
#OneWestside #TeamDuval #UrgencyInAction #RaiderNation
Join us on Thursday, November 20, 2025, for an evening designed to empower our families and uplift our students. Our SAC Meeting will happen right before the Data Review at 5:30 p.m. in the Media Center, and we’d love to have you there.
Then at 6:00 p.m., we roll straight into our Quarter 1 & Quarter 2 Data Review Night. Come see the real growth your child has made this year — the kind of progress that hits the heart like that first holiday bite of sweet potato pie.
After the data review, families will receive take-home resources to help students stay sharp over Thanksgiving Break.
We move farther when we move together. ❤️🖤
#RaiderNation #OneWestside #TeamDuval #UrgencyInAction #WeAreTheTable
Good morning Raider Nation ❤️🖤
Your child’s safety is our highest priority at Westside Middle School, and we want to share a few important reminders to ensure smooth mornings, safe afternoons, and a focused school day.
🚗 Morning Drop-Off Reminder
Faculty and staff report at 9:05 AM, and student intake begins at 9:10 AM.
Before 9:10 AM, no supervision is available for students.
If your child is dropped off, please remind them to remain at the car-rider gate until staff opens intake.
🚙 Afternoon Pick-Up Reminder
• Early pick-up ends at 3:30 PM
• Dismissal begins promptly at 4:00 PM
Thank you for helping us maintain a safe and orderly release each day.
👕 Uniform & ID Expectations
Uniforms and IDs are required daily and help us ensure student safety. Please make sure your child arrives each day:
• Wearing their grade-level uniform colors
• Following all appearance guidelines
• With their school ID visible at all times
🚌 Bus Transportation Safety
Riding the bus is a privilege, not a right. Students must:
• Ride the bus assigned in the Parent Portal
• Scan on and off using their school ID
• Secure a bus pass before 7th period if they need to ride a different bus
Students who wait until dismissal for a pass will not be permitted to ride an alternate bus. Unsafe behavior may result in loss of bus privileges.
If you have any questions, please contact school administration. Thank you for supporting a safe and thriving Raider Nation.
#RaiderNation #OneWestside #TeamDuval #UrgencyInAction #RaiderStrong #WMSFamily #WestsideMiddleSchool #SafetyFirst
📣 Progress Reports Drop Tuesday, November 18, 2025!
Parents and Guardians, it’s time to check in on your scholar’s journey.
👀 Log in to your Parent Portal account to review grades and progress.
📄 Need a printed copy? Swing by the school or give us a call — we’ll take care of you.
These progress checkpoints help us stay aligned, informed, and ready to support our scholars as they move toward excellence. Let’s keep pushing together — every word, every number, every step.
📚✨ Stay connected. Stay engaged. Stay Raider Strong.
#RaiderNation #OneWestside #TeamDuval #UrgencyInAction #RaiderStrong #WMSFamily #WestsideMiddleSchool #RaiderPride
Good afternoon Raider Nation! 📣
We’ve got a busy and exciting week ahead at Westside, and we want to keep you in the loop so your students don’t miss a beat.
📊 Progress Reports
Progress reports will be posted in your Parent Portal by Tuesday, November 18. Take a moment to review your child’s grades. Need to talk things through? Reach out to our guidance team:
• Mr. Cole — ColeA3@duvalschools.org
• Mrs. Valentine — ValentineE2@duvalschools.org
🏀 Basketball Tryouts
Time to lace up! All tryouts run from 4:30 to 6:00 PM ⏱️
Boys:
• 6th Grade – Monday
• 7th Grade – Wednesday
• 8th Grade – Thursday
Girls: Monday through Thursday this week (no tryouts Friday)
Don’t forget: students must bring a change of clothes – no uniforms allowed.
⚽ Boys Soccer Tryouts
November 19 – 21, also from 4:30 to 6:00 PM. Come prepared and ready to hustle!
😁 Big Smiles Dental Program
Our school is partnering with Big Smiles to bring free dental care right to campus! Exams, cleanings, X-rays, and sealants — all at no cost. Just send back your student’s permission form and we’ll take care of the rest.
🔋 Charge Up Family Night
Join us Thursday, Nov. 20 at 6 PM for a family night focused on data, resources, and preparing students for success during the holiday break. Stay afterward for our SAC meeting at 7. Let’s keep leveling up together!
Let’s go, Raider Nation — every word, every number, every step taking us higher. 🖤❤️
#RaiderNation #WeAreOneWestside #UrgencyInAction #TeamDuval #EveryWordEveryNumberEveryStep #WestsidePride #BetterTogether
📊 First Quarter Grades are now live in FOCUS! Log into your Parent Portal to review grades and help your student set new goals for Quarter 2.
🎉 Spirit Week: October 27–31
Each day is $4.99 or get the All-Week Band for $24.99. Students with the All-Week Band must wear their orange wristband all week long.
All proceeds benefit our PBIS Store and student celebrations!
👟 Monday – Fabulous Footwear
🎩 Tuesday – Crazy Head Gear
💼 Wednesday – Professional Wardrobe
🕺 Thursday – Throwback Day
🎭 Friday – Character/Celebrity Day
🎃 Halloween & Character Day Reminder
Friday’s Character/Celebrity Day allows students to dress as their favorite celebrity or fictional character. However — no candy, full masks, or inappropriate characters are permitted. Please contact administration if you have any questions.
👕 Dress Code & Outerwear Reminder
Students must follow the Westside Dress Code:
Tops: Westside logo T-shirts or polos.
Bottoms: Khaki, black, or blue pants, shorts, or skirts.
Outerwear: Plain gray, black, or red outerwear or official Westside logoed gear only.
No hoods, hoodies, or non-school jackets inside the building.
The weather is changing, and official Westside sweaters and jackets are available through our vendor Total Impact Jax — sweaters range from $15–$17. Families can purchase approved school apparel directly at:
👉 https://totalimpactjax.com/westside-middle-school/
🏈 Football – Western Division Championship!
It’s Westside vs. Chaffee for the title! Purchase tickets at https://gofan.co/app/school/FL25644b
.
All students must have their school-issued ID and must not be on the DNA (Do Not Admit) list for entrance.
🏐 Lady Raiders Volleyball Tonight!
Come cheer on our Lady Raiders as they face Joseph Stillwell at home!
#OneWestside #RaiderNation #PBIS #RaiderPride #TeamDuval #GoRaiders
