Weekly Update

We have officially wrapped up our first full week of school, and I couldn't be more proud of our students! Their energy, resilience, and positive attitudes have been incredible to witness. They are adjusting well to our new entry process and procedures with our weapons detection system, and while getting the hang of lockers is still a work in progress (we've had some funny moments!), they're improving every day.

A special shout-out to our students for doing an amazing job during STAR testing yesterday. Their focus and effort set a strong academic tone for the year ahead. I’m excited for all that's to come as we continue building momentum. This is going to be a great year at Beacon Hill!

Alexis Glenn, Interim Principal

Beacon Hill Middle School

Beacon Hill Middle School is committed to ensuring every classroom is stocked and ready for students and teachers to have what they need to be engaged and successful. We do this by using our allocated state and local funding to fulfill classroom needs. Funding covers essential classroom supplies, any specialized materials needed for educational programming in different grade levels/subjects, individual or team requests for specific supplies, professional learning and general operating costs.

In addition to this, some staff at BHMS have customarily shared supply wish lists with families via email or online. Please know that these are optional and individualized by the staff member. Wish lists should not be interpreted as an indication that classrooms at BHMS or our programming lack supplies or funding. Instead, the lists reflect individual preferences for extra items. Any purchases made from these lists are considered gifts to staff and must follow state guidance and Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC) rules around gift-giving to public employees, including monetary limits.

If you have any questions about how supplies are funded or how you can support our classrooms, please contact Ms. Glenn.

We will be conducting another fire drill of the school year Friday, August 8 to ensure all students and staff are familiar with emergency procedures. This is a routine safety practice, and there is no cause for concern. Teachers will review expectations with students in advance to help the drill run smoothly. We appreciate your support in helping us prioritize student safety.

Nine parents have stepped up to run for the two open spots on the Beacon Hill School Leadership Team (SLT)! Below, you'll find the bios for all nine candidates, listed in alphabetical order by last name.

6th Grade families: Join us from 4:30 PM to 5:45 PM. Please arrive knowing your child's schedule and report to their 1st-period class.

7th Grade families: We'll see you from 6:00 PM to 7:15 PM. Please arrive knowing your child's schedule and report to their 1st-period class.

8th Grade families: We'll see you from 6:00 PM to 7:15 PM. Please arrive knowing your child's schedule and report to their 3rd-period class.

You'll visit five core classes for 10 minutes each and watch videos about connections courses. Come learn what's happening in class and experience moving to each class period just like your child does! We can't wait to see you there!

We’re excited to have our BHMS students join us for Decatur High School varsity football games. It’s always a great time to build community and school spirit. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests, middle school-age students, including those from Beacon Hill, must be accompanied by an adult to enter the stadium.

For everyone’s safety and enjoyment, students are expected to remain seated during the game and may not gather in large groups or move about the stadium in a disruptive manner.

Students who are unable to follow these expectations may be asked to leave and could lose the privilege of attending future games.

To streamline entry and support a positive experience, here’s what to know:

• Weapons detection systems will be in use at the gates to enhance safety and peace of mind.

• Bag guidelines: Only clear bags are allowed—either a clear bag up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″ or a small clutch (around 4.5″ × 6.5″). Exceptions are made for medically necessary or diaper bags, which will be subject to inspection.

• Faster entry is easier entry: Bringing fewer items helps everyone move through the screening process more smoothly and swiftly.

We appreciate your partnership in helping us create a welcoming and secure atmosphere for Bulldog Nation!

Sincerely,

Rodney Thomas

Director of Athletics and Activities

What an incredible start to the school year at BHMS! The first week was buzzing with excitement as our classrooms focused on building strong communities. Teachers and students jumped into collaborative team-building activities, establishing routines and procedures, and exploring the IB learner profiles. From hands-on activities to introducing new content, our students are already diving into what promises to be a fantastic year of learning. Check out the photos below for some of the highlights!

We're thrilled to announce that Ms. Miller-King and her students have been featured in a professional woodworking commercial! The commercial highlights Ms. Miller-King's journey as a woodworker and her passion for teaching. It also showcases her belief that her purpose is to share her gift in a way that hasn't been shared before. The commercial emphasizes the importance of building something that lasts, which serves as a metaphor for taking the future into account. This is a fantastic recognition of our school's talented students and their dedicated teacher. check out the commercial by clicking here or on the picture below.

Anastasia Youth Edition will have auditions on August 18th-20th. To sign up for auditions please join the google classroom with this code: z47izgvj For more information contact Ms. Fowler @ whitley.fowler@csdecatur.net

Applications due: Thursday, August 14th, 2025

What is FLL? First Lego League (FLL) is a STEM-based program where teams research a real-world problem, design and program LEGO robots, develop innovative solutions, and compete in exciting challenges.

Who should apply? If you enjoy problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity, then the BHMS FLL Robotics Team is for you! No prior experience with robotics is needed, but active interest and participation is expected.

• Grades: Open to 6th through 8th graders at BHMS

• Meetings: Tuesdays, 4:00-5:30 PM, August-February

• Competitions: 1-3 competitions in the Greater Atlanta area between October and February

• Fee: $125 per team member for supplies and registration (need-based scholarships available)

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How to Apply: Complete the application by August 14th (Spots are limited: Don’t wait! Apply early!)

BHMS FIRST LEGO League 2025-26 Application Form

Questions? Use this form and a parent volunteer will respond: BHMS First Lego League Questions

Don't miss early sales, picture day, or distribution day!

All boys interested in trying out for the soccer team this fall are invited to attend tryouts from August 18-20. Tryouts will be held at Ebster Field from 4:20 to 5:45.

Students should complete the Interest Form linked below to register.

Boys' Soccer Interest Form

Please have an updated DragonFly medical profile prior to tryouts.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Coach Derrick Burgess (dburgess@csdecatur.net)

If your child is already feeling behind just weeks into the school year, you’re not alone. The shift from summer mode to school structure can take a toll—especially when it comes to reading confidence. But here’s the good news: confidence isn’t fixed. It can be rebuilt—and it starts with a few simple shifts at home.

In this post, I’m sharing easy, encouraging ways to help your child reconnect with reading in a way that feels doable and positive. You’ll discover:

• Why the first six weeks of school are critical for reading confidence
  
  

• One mindset shift that can turn “I hate reading” into “I think I can do this”
  
  

• How to use “micro wins” to help your child build momentum
  
  

• A simple journal prompt that encourages self-belief
  
  

• A printable Reading Identity Card your child can keep in their folder or planner
  
  

Let’s help your reader feel proud of themselves again—one small win at a time.
[Read the full article →]

Read the August 7, 2025, issue of the district-wide newsletter, CSD Weekly here.

Many hands make for lighter work. Interested in joining a committee or helping with a single event? Tell us how you would like to participate in the new school year by completing our 2025-2026 Volunteer Interest Form.The PTA is particularly in need of people for our Fundraising and Diversity committees. Questions? Email president@bhmspta.org.

We rely on the generosity of our community and families to support students and staff. Donations of any amount…especially if we all contribute together…can have a significant effect. All donations are tax deductible.

Perhaps you are a BHMS family or local business owner looking to bump up your support? (Do you know a business that would like to help?) Then consider becoming a BHMS sponsor. Learn more about sponsorship levels here. Questions? Reach out to our fundraising chair at fundraising@bhmspta.org.

Joining the PTA has lots of perks. Get event notifications, make connections with other parents, support your child and their school environment, share your voice. Renew your membership or become a new member of the BHMS PTA today! (Log in with your existing credentials, or register if you’re joining for the first time.)

Last year, Claire the Bulldog dove across the finish line to win the first-ever CSD Mascot Run for Clairemont Elementary. Who will break the tape and take home the trophy this year? Come out to cheer for BHMS on Friday, August 8 during the first DHS home game of the season. The game starts at 7 pm, and the race will take place during half-time. Plus, long-time Decatur Bulldog Booster sponsor Keller Knapp Realty is giving away cowbells for fans.

Our first schoolwide event of the year is our annual Spirit Night. Mark your calendars for Friday, October 3 at 5 pm as we celebrate the new school year Bulldog style. Details to come.

• Personal Electronics Protocol
• BHMS
• Bell Schedule or Bell Schedule by Grade
• Bus Routes
• Free and Reduced Lunch Application
• BHMS Weekly Updates
• Attendance Routines and Procedures
• Key Contacts

• BHMS Facebook page
• BHMSPTA Facebook page
• BHMSInstagram page
• Grading Quick Facts 6-12
• CSD Grading Handbook

Click here to view this week's edition of the CSD Weekly.