Local & Community
Palm Springs Unified Students Return to Class
Palm Springs Unified School District students returned to class today for the start of the new school year.
The district has 28 schools, including Cathedral City Elementary, where educators and parents are focusing on setting goals and building positive routines for students.
For parents, the first day of school marks a new grade and new opportunities for growth. One parent said she wants her daughter, who is entering third grade, to feel confident and understand that she has a purpose.
PSUSD Superintendent Dr. Marcus Funchess says the district wants students to know they are valued, welcomed and affirmed.
At Cathedral City Elementary, Principal Brenda Santana says this year's theme is "Level Up." The school is challenging students and teachers to set goals and work toward achieving them.
Educators also emphasize the importance of regular attendance. They say showing up consistently helps students build habits and character that can benefit them throughout life.
Parents are also encouraged to establish routines at home and motivate their children to meet their goals.
Coachella Valley Unified School District and Desert Sands Unified School District will begin the new school year on August 19.
By: NBC Palm Springs
August 5, 2026
Latest Instagram Posts
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
What do you think is really going on here? Drop your thoughts below 👇 #therogginreport #coachella #coachellavalley #localnews #nbcpalmsprings
During the 2025-2026 school year, PEN America reported there were nearly 12,000 book bans in public schools nationwide, the largest number of book bans in a single year since the group started tracking numbers in 2021.
Delta Airlines overhauled its frequent flyer program in 2024. CNN’s Randi Kaye asks Delta CEO Ed Bastian if the airline has made it more difficult for flyers to earn status and if any further changes to the loyalty program are on the horizon.
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. Favorite Festival?
‘The Hayden’ is back @babysmarche !! John Hayden himself took a trip to the Indian Wells staple for lunch and to chat with @chefjustinsnyder on how it became the most popular item on the menu! #TheHayden
🛑A bike ride ended in tragedy Monday night in Palm Springs. A bicyclist died after being struck by a car around 8:30 PM on E. Palm Canyon Dr. The driver stayed at the scene and police say there’s no indication of foul play or impairment. ❓Saw the crash or have video from the area? Call Palm Springs police at (760) 327–1441.
Social Time: Jerry sings the end! 🎶🎵
CALIFORNIA IS AGING FAST... BUT WHERE WILL THE WORKFORCE LIVE? #therogginreport #coachellavalley #localnews #agingpopulation #nbcpalmsprings
119 jobs on the line and DRD’s General Manager won’t answer questions … Drop a comment 👇: Would you vote YES or NO on giving a district more money if they refuse to answer transparency questions? #therogginreport #drd #coachellavalley #localnews #nbcpalmsprings