Principal’s Message

 I hope this message finds you all well and filled with excitement as we embark on this new school year together! It is truly an honor to introduce myself as the new principal of Coalinga Middle School. I am thrilled to be part of such a vibrant and dynamic community where every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. 

As we start this journey together, I want to emphasize a few key priorities that will guide us: 

1. Student-Centered Learning: At Coalinga Middle School, our students are at the heart of everything we do. I am committed to fostering an environment where each learner feels valued, supported, and challenged. We will work to provide engaging and inclusive educational experiences that cater to the diverse needs of our student body. 

2. Collaboration and Communication: I believe that strong partnerships between teachers, parents, and the community are essential for our students; success. I encourage open communication and collaboration among all stakeholders, and I invite you to share your thoughts and ideas as we work together to create a positive school environment. 

3. Safety and Well-Being: The safety and well-being of our students and staff are my top priorities. We will continue to implement and enhance measures to ensure that our school is a safe and welcoming place for everyone. Together, we can create a culture of respect, kindness,and support. 

4. Encouraging Growth and Development: Middle school is a critical time for personal and academic growth. I am dedicated to providing opportunities for our students to explore their interests, develop their talents, and gain essential skills that will prepare them for high school and beyond. We will celebrate accomplishments along the way and encourage resilience in the face of challenges. 

As we kick off the school year, I look forward to meeting each of you—students, parents, and staff. I invite you to attend our upcoming events, join our school activities, and become an active member of our vibrant school community. Your involvement makes a significant difference in the lives of our students. 

Welcome to the 2025-2026 school year. We are thrilled to have you as an integral part of our community and we look forward to an exceptional year ahead. First day of school is Wednesday, August 13, 2025 beginning at 8:00 AM. 

Together, we can create a nurturing environment where every student’s potential is realized. 

Warm regards, 

Shelley Manser 

Principal, Coalinga Middle School 

Leader in Me

Summary: Leader in Me is an educational program based on Stephen Covey's "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." It aims to equip students with essential leadership and life skills by integrating these habits into the school's culture and curriculum.

Usage at Coalinga Middle School: At Coalinga Middle School, Leader in Me is used to cultivate leadership qualities in students. By incorporating the 7 Habits, students learn to set goals, manage time effectively, and develop a proactive mindset. The program helps create a positive school environment where students are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions, work collaboratively, and develop self-confidence, ultimately leading to higher academic achievement and personal growth.

Capturing Kids' Hearts

Summary: Capturing Kids' Hearts is a professional development program focused on building positive relationships between teachers and students. It emphasizes social-emotional learning and creating a supportive classroom environment where students feel valued and respected.

Usage at Coalinga Middle School: At Coalinga Middle School, Capturing Kids' Hearts is implemented to foster strong, trusting relationships between staff and students. Teachers use techniques from the program to create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, where students feel safe to express themselves and engage in their learning. By addressing students' emotional and social needs, the program helps to reduce behavioral issues, improve attendance, and increase student engagement and motivation.

SMART (Teacher/Student Mentor Program)

Summary: The SMART (Teacher/Student Mentor Program) is a mentoring initiative designed to provide students with additional support and guidance through one-on-one mentoring relationships with teachers. The program aims to enhance academic performance, personal development, and overall well-being of students.

Usage at Coalinga Middle School: At Coalinga Middle School, the SMART program pairs students with teachers who act as mentors, offering personalized support and encouragement. Mentors help students set and achieve academic and personal goals, provide advice and resources, and serve as positive role models. This close mentorship helps students navigate challenges, build confidence, and stay motivated, contributing to their overall success in school.

Check In Check Out Program (CICO)

• The Check in/out Program is a school-wide prevention program for students who are starting to engage in problem behavior. The goal of the Program is to prevent students who are acting out from escalation and provide them with more frequent feedback on their behavior to prevent future problem behavior. Our dedicated SMART teachers are in charge of checking students in and out on a daily basis and providing daily and weekly incentives.  CICO (Check in/out) teachers are encouraged to make positive parent contact as well as give out weekly rewards for CICO (Check in/out) students earning daily points and meeting their behavior goals.  CMS will be starting our 2nd round of CICO soon and are excited to see the improvement in participating students.