SILVER FOX NEWS
December 12, 2025
Congratulations
Congratulations to our TOMS Staff Member of the Week, Mrs. Taylor Wims!
She was nominated by Mrs. Boone.
Mrs. Wims teaches 7th Grade ELA here at Ten Oaks, and coaches our TOMS Mock Trial Team.
She has been at TOMS since we opened, 9 years ago — she says
"time flies when you’re doing what you love!"
My favorite memories of middle school all come from traveling with different clubs and organizations. Our Beta Club competed at the National Convention in New Orleans, I visited New York City with my drama class, and I competed in the championship round for Mock Trial in Columbia, SC.
My advice to my Middle School self would be... To realize that everything my mom said was true—and that she really did know what she was talking about!
🎶 Winter Concert Series Shines at TOMS!
This week our 6th, 7th, and 8th Grade Ten Oaks Band, directed by Mr. Jose Poe, the TOMS Orchestra directed by Mr. Chad Hammer, and the TOMS Chorus directed by Ms. Rachel Rollins delivered three outstanding Winter Holiday Concert Series performances!
Each ensemble performed to a packed house, and the Winter Holiday Concerts were nothing short of spectacular. Audiences were thoroughly impressed by the students’ musical talents and the hard work that went into each performance.
A heartfelt thank you to Mr. Pope, Mr. Hammer, Ms. Rollins, our amazing student musicians, and everyone who joined us to support the Winter Holiday Concerts.
Bravo to all on a remarkable series of performances! 🎵👏
Congratulations to our 46 Ten Oaks Middle School Junior Scholars! This is the largest number of Junior Scholars in our school’s nine year history.
South Carolina’s Junior Scholars are selected based on PSAT/NMSQT performance. Students qualify by scoring 550 or higher on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section or 530 or higher on the Mathematics section of the PSAT/NMSQT.
A special thank you to Mrs. Laurie Thomas, TOMS School Counselor, for her outstanding work as our PSAT Testing Coordinator this year. We also extend our gratitude to Mrs. Sarah Leppert, Mrs. Susan Douglas, Mr. Cameron Lentz, and Mrs. Sonni Shupe for organizing and assisting with our after-school PSAT Preparation Program this fall.
We are so very proud of our students and their hard work! Way to go!
Congratulations to the TOMS Mock Trial Team on your 4th PLACE Finish!
We are excited to announce that our team placed 4th in the state this past weekend! These students and teachers spent countless hours preparing, and we couldn’t be more proud of their dedication and teamwork!
State Individual Recognitions
Peer Recognition – Most Effective Attorney:
• Luna Cupertino
• Eleanor Oestreich
• Jayla Dotson
Peer Recognition – Most Effective Witness:
• Stefano Fuda
• Carson Murphy
Judges’ Recognition – Most Effective Attorney:
• Eleanor Oestreich
Judges’ Recognition – Most Effective Witness:
• Carson Murphy
• Jeffrey Bennett
Thank you to everyone who has supported our team. Our kids play fair, they write their own material, and they deserve all the credit for their success along with their amazing coaches!
Mock Trial at the state level requires that members be fully independent of notes and free from the assistance of their peers and coaches. Mock Trial is also unique in that students cannot prepare for everything that could happen in the courtroom, and members learn how to think quickly on their feet and adapt when things do not go as planned.
Each round presented new challenges and obstacles that they were required to overcome. We are so incredibly proud of their professionalism, sportsmanship, and perseverance.
Thank you again to Mrs. Taylor Wims, Mr. Cameron Lentz, and Mrs. Sara Boone for all the ways you coached and supported our team. Until next year! Case Dismissed.
Thank you to everyone who picked up a tag from our Angel tree! please remember that after you have purchased your gift for this special child, you return the wrapped gift with the Angel Tag to the front office of TOMS no later than Friday, December 12th.
Monetary gifts are also accepted to help with unfulfilled tags.
Contact Mrs. Laurie Thomas at LThomas001@horrycountyschools.net for questions on how to donate/give a gift.
There’s Still Time TOMS Cookie Elves!
Our Annual Staff Christmas Cookie Exchange is soon and we need your magical baking (or shopping ) powers!
Donate: Homemade or store-bought cookies
Amount: At least 4 dozen of the same cookie
Drop-off Deadline: December 17 by 8:00 AM at the school
Sign up here:
https://www.signupgenius.com/.../60B0D4BA5AE2BA5FD0...
Let’s make this the sweetest staff celebration yet!
Conversations with Cliff
Superintendent Jones would like to continue his community engagement events across our school district for the 2025-2206 school year. These events will cover all nine attendance areas and include morning sessions and evening sessions.
A NEW CHALLENGE AWAITS!
Students can now register on Beanstack for our latest reading challenge!
To earn 2 TOMS Silver Dollars, students must:
Log 600 pages
Write 5 reviews
Between December 1st and January 31st
Encourage your students to jump in and start reading!
Check out the TOMS Silver Fox Plunge Squad’s team fundraising page for
Special Olympics South Carolina!
We’re “freezin’ for a reason” — jumping into icy water (okay, maybe just a plunge) to support an incredible cause: Special Olympics South Carolina. Our goal? To help fund year-round sports training, competitions, and inclusion for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
https://www.classy.org/team/779955
Every dollar you donate makes a real impact. Whether you give $5 or $50 — it all counts, and it all helps these athletes thrive.
Thank you for your support, your shares, and your encouragement. Let’s show how much the Silver Fox Plunge Squad cares!
Our 2026 TOMS Polar Plunge fundraiser kicks off Monday, December 8th!
Students will have the chance to join in the fun!
TOMS is excited to announce that on Friday, December 19th, our Boys and Girls Basketball Teams will play a series of games against the Silver Sneakers Basketball Club! This group is comprised of Teachers and Staff from Ten Oaks Middle!
Starting December 8th, students will be able to purchase a ticket during their Advisory time. Tickets are $2.00. A table will be set up in the cafeteria. Please bring exact change.
Students attending the games will do so during their Discovery period on December 19th. Wristbands will be distributed that morning for those who purchased a ticket!
We can't wait to watch these games!
Important Dates
December
15 ~ Math Counts Club 3:45 -4:45 PM
15 ~ Boys on the Run 3:45 - 4:45 PM
17 ~ Chess Club 3:45 -4:45
17 ~ Boys on the Run 3:45 - 4:45 PM
17 ~ PTO Staff Treat - Cookie Exchange
17 ~ TOMS Spelling Bee Finals
18 ~ FCA 7:45 - 8:20
18 ~ Lemons and Dough
18 ~ ESports 3:45 -4:45
18 ~ TOMS Technology Club 3:45 -4:30 PM
19 ~ Silver Sneakers Basketball Games Fundraiser
December 20 - January 4 ~ Winter Break
January
5 ~ Back to School
16 ~ 2-1/2 Hour Early Dismissal
19 ~ School Closed
20 ~ Student Holiday/Teacher Workday
26 ~ Report Cards issued via PowerSchool
31 ~ Polar Plunge (See flyer above)
Attendance
As a reminder, the Horry County Attendance policy changed for the 2025/2026 School year.
We wanted to highlight and bring to your attention a few of the changes that will affect your student's attendance if not followed!
• Parents must submit a note within 3 days of the student’s return to school from an absence. Notes may be submitted prior to the student’s absence.
• Parents may submit notes for up to 6 school days, and the days will count as parent-excused.
• Elementary/Middle Schools – 6 days total
• Parent notes will not be accepted during designated state testing dates.
To view the entire HCS Attendance policy, click on the link here. https://www.horrycountyschools.net/.../attendance-policy...
For questions, please reach out to Mrs. Stephanie Graham at SGraham005@horrycountyschools.net.
Backpacks
For more information, click on the link below.
The News Room at HCS/Clear Backpacks (Horrycountyschools.net)
BUS
Dear TOMS Parents/Guardians,
In an effort to minimize classroom disruptions and maintain a focused learning environment, we are implementing a few new procedures effective immediately:
Lunch Drop-Offs
If a student’s lunch is dropped off at the front office, it will be placed on a designated cart near the security desk.
Students will not be called out of class to pick up their lunch.
Please remind your child to check the cart if they realize they do not have their lunch.
Other Item Drop-Offs
If other items (e.g., forgotten computers, books, clothing, etc.) are delivered for a student, an email will be sent to the teacher of the class the student is currently attending.
Teachers will check their email regularly throughout the day so students can receive their items in a timely manner.
Changes in Dismissal
Any changes to your child’s transportation home should be communicated prior to your student arriving at school.
Dismissal changes cannot be made over the phone after 2:00 PM to allow sufficient time to notify both the teacher and student.
Thank you for your continued support and cooperation.
TOMS Administration
Cafeteria Information
HCS Offers Students Free Breakfast & Lunch in 2025-26
All students in Horry County Schools will receive free breakfast and lunch during the 2025-2026 school year as part of the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program.
Students will still have the option to purchase additional meals, food & snack items, and beverages at à la carte prices. À la carte items can be paid for in cash or by prepayment on the student’s cafeteria account.
Click here for more information.
Calendar
The 2025-2026 Student Calendar is available now!
Visit www.horrycountyschools.net/calendars to view or download the PDF.
Cell Phone Policy
Click the following link to learn more about the
HCS student cell phone policy.
Check Return Policy
Counseling Departments at TOMS
Check our link below to hear from our TOMS Counselors for important information
throughout the year! See what is happening here.
Clubs at TOMS
Ten Oaks Middle offers a variety of Clubs and Discovery classes! Our students enjoy everything from Chorus, Band and Orchestra to Drama, Science Club and Mock Trial, just to name a few!
Many Clubs will begin this month and we will share information in Advisory classrooms, Facebook and here in the newsletter. We encourage all students to get involved! Check back with us here for important upcoming dates and information.
The TOMS Jr. Beta Club is Sponsoring a December Food Drive!
We’re excited to partner with our local food bank to support families in need this holiday season. Donations will be accepted December 1–15.
Every contribution—big or small—makes a difference!
Thank you for helping us spread generosity this season.
Chess Club will be held every Wednesday from 3:45 - 4:45 PM. Registration forms must be submitted to Mr. Campman in order to participate. Chess Club Registration
TOM’S Morning Devotional Group — a student-led club designed to start the week with purpose and positivity! It is a time for students to come together, read and discuss Bible verses, and explore how faith connects to everyday life. The focus is on reflection, responsibility, and leadership — all led by students, for students.
Every Monday Morning | 7:30–7:55 AM Room 151
Open to all students - must have a signed permission slip
Arrive by 7:25 AM for bag checks with Officer Davis
Permission slips are available in the front office. Return them to Mrs. Miksa (Room 151).
TOMS Disc Golf club is in full swing!
Registration forms are available from Mr. Saar in room #220. All students interested in participation mut have a parent/guardian complete the form and return to Mr. Saar.
🎮 TOMS Esports Team🎮
Meets every Thursday afternoon in the Orange Collaboration Space from 3:45 PM – 4:45 PM
Are you ready to game competitively? Come check out TOMS Esports Team!
Questions? See Mr. DeBell in 251
Let’s level up together! 💥
Fellowship of Christian Athletes is open to all students!
FCA Meets each Thursday morning in the Gym from 7:45 - 8:20 AM.
We are excited to announce the first official Gaga Ball Club meeting of TOMS for the 2025-26 school year will be held on Thursday, 11/20! The club will expand and open to 6th-7th graders this year.
The club will meet on the following Thursdays after school:
December: 12/18
January: 1/8, 1/15, 1/22
Any 6th-7th grader who is interested in joining the club needs to sign up via this form – click here. https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSfCENbMetzPhg.../viewform
The only criteria is that students joining must be passing all core subjects. If students have any questions about the club they can reach out to Mrs. Ladd or Mr. Frechette.
The TOMS Kindness Club was created for our students, and will meet once a month during our morning Advisory time. The goal is to provide an opportunity for students to promote kindness in their school and communities while also increasing their leadership abilities. It also fosters an attitude of teamwork and problem-solving by working together in a respectful manner. The students will participate in several different activities during the school year that will work to foster leadership skills while promoting kindness.
Students can pick up an application/permission form in the Library at the Circulation Desk and have the parent/guardian fill it out. We look forward to seeing you on December 4th at the next Kindness Club!
All students interested in problem-solving, math challenges, and competitions are welcome to join.
Math Counts Club will meet every Monday afternoon from 3:45-4:45 PM.
🏃♂️ TOMS Boys Running Club 🏃♂️
The Boys' Running Club will hold regular practice days on Mondays & Wednesdays 3:45 - 4:45 PM.
This club is a great opportunity for boys to stay active, build endurance, and have fun in a supportive team environment. All experience levels are welcome!
If you're interested or have any questions, feel free to reach out to Mr. Brown or Mr. Butterfield!
#BoysRunningClub #HealthyHabits #Teamwork
The TOMS Fall Girls Running Club meets every Tuesday and Thursday afterschool from 3:45 - 4:45 PM. 5k Run at Broadway at the Beach 12/13.
We will resume meeting on March 4th in the new year!
Whether you're a seasoned runner or just want to try something new, come join the fun and get moving this fall! See Mrs. LaValle in Room 222 for more information.
Let’s hit the ground running!
Student Council members will meet on January 10th from 8:25 - 8:40 AM
in the upstairs Green Collaboration Space starting at 8:25am
TOMS Science Club is open to all students!
Get ready for experiments, discoveries, and hands-on fun.
Science Club next meeting will be January 8th!
Don’t miss out on an exciting year of science exploration!
Tom’s Technology Club is BACK! If you love gadgets, coding, or just want to explore how tech works, this is the place for you. Are you ready to get techy with us?
Club will meet the 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month 3:45 -4:30 PM! Next meeting is December 18th! See Mr. Robinette with any questions!
Delivery Information
Attention TOMS Parents and Students,
For security purposes, we do not accept ANY deliveries for students. This includes, but is not limited to, floral deliveries, gifts or outside restaurant food items etc. We are not responsible for your student’s personal property. Please have your student be mindful of having everything they may need for the school day and after school activities prior to leaving home for school.
If the items are an absolute necessity, you can come to the school and drop off in the front office. We WILL NOT interrupt instructional time for students to leave class to retrieve items from a family member.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
MyPaymentsPlus
Visit www.mypaymentsplus.com for more information.
Power School
Parents and guardians, if you need to change your information, phone number, email, emergency contact, address, etc., you can log in to your PowerSchool parent account, click year-round updates on the left-hand side of the page and change your information. Please note you will need to use the regular desktop version of PowerSchool as this feature is not available on the mobile app.
- Log into your PowerSchool Parent Portal account here https://myps.horrycountyschools.net/public/home.html
- Have questions? Please contact our Registrar, Stephanie Graham at sgraham005@horrycountyschools.net
Schedule
Student Handbook and Resource Guide
All students reviewed a copy of the TOMS Student Handbook and Resource Guide during the first week of school. Please make sure you have read through all documents and discuss with your child. TOMS Student Handbook Link
Our school motto is Success Nothing Less! We strive to succeed in everything we do and partnering with students and families helps all of us achieve this goal!
Let's Talk Technology!
Have questions about the Personalized Digital Learning Devices at Ten Oaks? Check out this information below on the Dell Latitudes our students use at Ten Oaks Middle. Distribution will begin after the first week of school.
All the following must occur for your student to receive a device:
All Technology fines must be paid in full; the $25 technology fee must be paid and we must have a parent/student permission form signed. Below is a detailed explanation of the difference between Tech fines and Tech fees. Only Tech FINES are currently available to be paid at My Payments Plus. 2025/2026 Tech Fees payments will need to be made in person at Ten Oaks Middle.
Technology Fines: Technology fines are charges that may have been added to your child’s account for any of the following incidents: Lost device, lost charger and or damage to the device.
Technology Fee: There is a $25 dollar technology fee that each student pays at the time of registration. It is beneficial for each student to pay this fee.
Students who pay the Technology Fee receive the following benefits:
● first accidental damage repair will be $25; the second accidental damage repair will be $75 and full cost of repair/replacement for all subsequent accidental damage repairs during the academic year
● device replacement due to theft (requires formal police report) will cost an additional $25
● pay full repair for all damage caused by neglect or abuse.
● pay full replacement cost for loss of device.
● students in grades 6-12 are allowed to take devices home.
Students who do not pay the Technology Fee:
● pay full repair cost for all damage.
● pay full replacement cost for lost due to theft.
● pay full replacement cost for loss of device.
● students in grades K-12 are not allowed to take devices home.
If you have questions, please email Mr. Wilson at RWilson@horrycountyschools.net.
Sports at Ten Oaks Middle and CFHS
All Athletic information for sports not managed by Ten Oaks Middle
can be found at www.cfpanthers.com.
Spirit Rock
TOMS PTO is excited to announce that the TOMS Spirit Rock is now available for rent! Please see the link below for the rules and procedures. Thank you supporting TOMS PTO!
Sign up HERE!
TOMS PTO
Check out the latest news from TOMS PTO on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TOMSPTO/
TOMS PTO is recruiting for 2025/2026! There are many events where your help is needed. Volunteering at your child's school can have a positive impact on the academic success of our children and show support for our hardworking teachers and staff. Please make sure you are cleared to be an Horry County School District Volunteer. Need to fill out the application? Go ahead and click here to complete the application.
TOMS VIRTUAL NEWS / YouTube
Get your TOMS Talk News HEEEERRE!
The latest episode of the TOMS Talk News has arrived with all the details you need for this week! We've got basketball news, concert info, art show highlights, and more! Enjoy!
Please take time to watch, like and subscribe to see all of our student's work this year!
Volunteer in HCS
Click on the photo below to learn more about becoming a HCS Volunteer!
Yearbooks
Click below to pre-order your TOMS 2025-2026 Yearbook from Jostens!
The cost is $45 untill 1/30/26
The price increase 1/31/26 to $50
You can order by clicking here!
About Ten Oaks Middle School
Website: https://www.horrycountyschools.net/Ten_Oaks
Location: 150 Revolutionary War Way, Myrtle Beach SC 29579
Main Phone: 843-488-8896 Fax: 843-236-0014