BMS Patriot Press

Berkmar Middle School will provide students with quality, rigorous instruction that will develop critical and creative thinkers who will take ownership of their education in order to be successful lifelong learners.

The mission of Berkmar Middle School is to pursue excellence in academic knowledge, skills, and behavior for each student, resulting in measured improvement against local, national, and world-class standards.

Be Respectful, Be Responsible and Be Ready (The 3 Rs)

Greetings, Patriot Families,

We are off to a strong start this February and remain focused on supporting student learning and success at Berkmar Middle School.

During National School Counseling Week, we celebrated our school counselors, Ms. Feinberg, Ms. Harris, and Ms. King for their continued support of students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. Their work is essential in helping students thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Across classrooms, teachers are providing engaging instruction to meet student needs. For example, Mr. Harris supported students through small‑group instruction and text annotation, using literacy strategies to strengthen understanding of Social Studies standards. This type of intentional instruction helps ensure all students are supported and challenged.

Families can support learning at home by encouraging students to read and discuss what they are learning, helping them stay organized, and maintaining consistent routines. Staying connected by checking grades, reviewing school communications, and celebrating student effort also makes a meaningful difference.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support. Together, we are committed to helping every student succeed at Berkmar Middle School.

With Patriot Pride,

Felecia Jones

Principal

February 1 - February 28

• Black History Month

Thursday, February 12- Monday, February 16

• Student/Staff Holiday

• Meet Ms. Silva at the Library- Lilburn Branch

Wednesday, February 25

• GMAS Informational Family Meeting

Thursday, February 26

• BMS Chick-Fil-A Spirit Night

• BMS & Atlanta Food Bank Distribution

Black History Month is a time to celebrate, honor, and reflect on the rich contributions, resilience, and excellence of Black leaders, past and present. Most importantly, it’s a reminder that Black history is American history and an essential part of who we are as a school community.

Our students and families bring a beautiful diversity of cultures, languages, stories, and traditions that are woven into what makes Berkmar Middle School so special. Through learning, dialogue, creativity, and celebration, we uplift voices, honor identities, and create spaces where every student feels seen, valued, and proud of who they are.

At BMS, diversity isn’t just something we recognize, it’s something we live every day. Together, we continue building a community rooted in respect, inclusion, and unity. 💚❤️🖤💛

Show your BMS pride by purchasing spirit wear. Use the link below to view the variety of options.

https://patriciasspiritwear.tuosystems.com/stores/berkmar

Please take a moment to review the school year calendar included here. We kindly encourage you to schedule doctor’s appointments and family vacations during student holidays whenever possible, so your child can fully benefit from their learning experience. Thank you for your thoughtful planning and support—it truly makes a difference!

The Gwinnett County Public Schools Student & Family Handbook includes important policies and expectations for students, including behavior guidelines, technology use, attendance, and more.

🔗 Click here to read the 2025–26 GCPS Handbook

We are inviting you to participate in the Georgia School Climate Survey. This is a great opportunity for you to share your voice, opinions, and experiences about our school. Your feedback is very important to Berkmar Middle School!

The survey is very easy and should only take about 5 minutes to complete. You will have multiple opportunities to complete it. Please use the link provided below or posted on the Patriot Press.

🎉 We’re making it fun!! It's a School Wide Competition! 🎉

Once you complete the survey:

• Please take a screenshot of the completion page
• Send it to me at pilar.silva@gcpsk12.org
• Ms. Silva will keep a tally of parent participation by homeroom

🍕 The homeroom with the highest parent participation will win a PIZZA PARTY! 🍕

📸 Important reminder:
In order for your participation to count, Ms. Silva must receive a screenshot. If you already completed the survey but did not take a screenshot, please complete it again and send her the screenshot so it can be counted.

We truly believe that together we can make sure Berkmar Middle School gets the recognition it deserves and show GCPS that BMS Families have a voice and use it!

Thank you in advance for taking the time to share your voice and support our school.

If you need help accessing the survey or have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Ms. Silva:

• 📞 770-638-2317
• 📧 pilar.silva@gcpsk12.org
• 📍Stop by the school: 4355 Lawrenceville Hwy, Lilburn

She will be more than happy to assist you!

Click on the link ➡️

💙🤍❤️ Georgia School Climate Survey Link 💙🤍❤️

Greetings BMS Families-

Did you know that Chronic Absenteeism means a student misses 10% or more of school days in a year for any reason (excused or unexcused), equating to about 18 days of school? GCPS families not only receive attendance letters at 5, 7, 10 and 15 unexcused absences, they also receive attendance “nudges” for 3 or more total absences (both excused and unexcused). Students should miss no more than 9 days of school each year to stay engaged and on track to graduation.

• By 6th grade, chronic absence (missing 10%, or 2 days each month) is one of three signs that a student may drop out of high school.

• By 9th grade, attendance is a better predictor of graduation rates than 8th grade test scores.

• Frequent absences can be a sign that a student is losing interest in school, dealing with a bully or facing some other difficulty.

Patriots with good attendance reflect our 3 R’s. They are in the building and READY to learn, are being RESPONSIBLE for their classroom success and are showing RESPECT by demonstrating a commitment to learning, valuing the educational environment, and honoring the time and effort of teachers and peers.

Regular attendance is particularly important for English Language Learner (ELL) students. Immersing themselves in an English-speaking environment helps them improve their language skills more quickly. Their attendance allows them to practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing in English daily. Their presence accelerates their journey to English fluency.

We love to see our students in the building each day. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s attendance, please reach out to your grade level counselor for support.

Let’s work together to make school attendance a priority!

Great job to Mr. Harris for providing effective small‑group instruction while guiding students in annotating texts. He intentionally incorporated literacy strategies to support student understanding of the Social Studies AKS.

Mr. Ramsey and Ms. Chacko helped their 7th Grade Language Arts students prepare for the Gwinnett Writes Assessment that will be administered later this year. Their students are working together to construct an essay about accomplishing dreams by taking action. They are learning to document evidence and use transition words to enhance their writing skills.

Our BMS "A Honor Roll" and "A/B Honor Roll" students are academic rock stars! We celebrated each of them with certificates of excellence and yummy treats. Let's continue to encourage, support, and inspire our student scholars.

• Do you have access to Parent Square?
• Do you have access to the ParentVue?
• Do you have a MyPaymentsPlus account?
• Have you applied for Free or Reduced Lunch?
• Do you know when and where your child can go to get additional instructional support?
• Do you know where you can check out materials/resources to use at home with your student?
• Do you know how to become a volunteer in our school?

If you answered NO to any of these questions, please make an Appointment with Ms. Pilar Silva, our Parent Instructional Coordinator, in the BMS Family Center

You can also reach her by email: pilar.silva@gcpsk12.org or by phone 770-638-2317.

BMS Families, we want to make sure you never miss what’s happening at Berkmar Middle School! From important announcements and upcoming events to celebrations and highlights from around our school, our Instagram page is the best way to stay connected.

👉 Follow us on social media and be part of our Patriot community:

• Instagram: @berkmarms127

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BerkmarMS

By following us, you’ll stay up to date, see the great things our students and staff are doing, and remain informed about all things BMS. Thank you for being an engaged and supportive part of our school community, we’re better when we stay connected!

💙❤️🤍

The Plan / The Purpose is now available for you to view anytime on our BMS Website under the For Parents Tab → Title I → Promise/Plans
This document is an important part of how we partner with families to support our students’ academic success and ensure that we are working together as a school community.

✨ The Plan / The Purpose explains:

• How Berkmar Middle School will use Title I funds to support student achievement.
• How families, students, and staff can work together to strengthen learning.
• Opportunities for parents to be involved and provide feedback throughout the year.

If you would like a hard copy, please stop by the BMS Family Center or contact Ms. Silva:
📞 770-638-2317
📧 pilar.silva@gcpsk12.org

We encourage every family to review this resource so you can stay informed and engaged in your child’s education.
Together, we are Ready, Respectful, and Responsible: Patriot Pride! 💙❤️🤍

The Newcomer Academy guides newcomer families through the ins and outs of Gwinnett County Public Schools. The academy is made up of a series of informative sessions on the topics of School Culture and Navigating the School System, GCPS Family Resources, Community Resources, and Rights and Responsibilities. The goal of the Newcomer Academy is for families to develop a greater understanding of the processes associated with GCPS resources. This workshop is taught in Chinese for Chinese families.

What: Newcomer Academy for Chinese Families

When: January 16 & 22, February 11 & 18 @ 10:00 AM

Where: International Newcomer Center, 495 Maltbie Street, Lawrenceville

The Newcomer Academy guides newcomer families through the ins and outs of Gwinnett County Public Schools. The academy is made up of a series of informative sessions on the topics of School Culture and Navigating the School System, GCPS Family Resources, Community Resources, and Rights and Responsibilities. The goal of the Newcomer Academy is for families to develop a greater understanding of the processes associated with GCPS resources. This workshop is taught in Korean for Korean families.

What: Newcomer Academy for Korean Families

When: January 26, February 2, 9 & 23 @ 10:00 AM

Where: International Newcomer Center, 495 Maltbie Street, Lawrenceville

The Newcomer Academy guides newcomer families through the ins and outs of Gwinnett County Public Schools. The academy is made up of a series of informative sessions on the topics of School Culture and Navigating the School System, GCPS Family Resources, Community Resources, and Rights and Responsibilities. The goal of the Newcomer Academy is for families to develop a greater understanding of the processes associated with GCPS resources.

This workshop is taught in Vietnamese for Vietnamese families.

What: Newcomer Academy for Vietnamese Families

When: January 26, February 2, 9 & 23 @ 10:00 AM

Where: International Newcomer Center, 495 Maltbie Street, Lawrenceville

Kroger offers a Community Rewards program that will allow BMS to benefit from a portion of your purchases. See the flier below and consider adding Berkmar Middle School as your Kroger Community Rewards recipient.

At Berkmar Middle School, we care deeply about the health, wellness, and stability of our families. We want to make sure you have access to helpful community resources designed to support you in every season of life. From food assistance programs and medical services to mental health support, financial resources, and community events, there are many options available for you and your family.

We encourage you to explore these resources and reach out if you ever need guidance or support. Our BMS Family’s health is important to us — and we’re here to help.

Please take a moment to review the information and share it with anyone who may benefit.
Together, we continue building a stronger, healthier, and more connected Patriot community. 💙🤍❤️

Disclaimer:
GCPS does not endorse or recommend any of the above agencies, as this list is for informational use only. Any fees incurred are the responsibility of the parent and/or student. This is not a complete list of medical providers and/or resources in Gwinnett and the Metro Atlanta area.

Many families in our community are facing hunger. Food insecurity affects attendance, focus, and overall well-being. In Georgia, one in seven children experiences food insecurity, which can make it hard to thrive at school or work.

If you are struggling, you are not alone. Asking for help does not make you a bad parent or a bad person. Even families who seem well-off can face challenges. Reaching out for support shows strength and care for your family. Our community is here to help

If you or someone you know is going through a tough time, please know that you’re not alone. There are places in our community offering free food for families in need, and the Food Finder link can help you find them easily. 🥫🍎

👉 Visit: https://foodfinder.us/

Please share this resource with your friends, neighbors, church members, or anyone who might benefit.
Sometimes, a simple act of sharing can make a huge difference in someone’s life. 💕

Let’s continue to take care of one another — with kindness, compassion, and love.
That’s what community is all about. 💙

Atlanta Food Bank has two upcoming food distribution sites. The distribution starts at 3:00PM and will continue while supplies last. Identification is NOT required. Families can also find food pantries by usting the Atlanta Community Food Bank's interactive Food Pantry Map by using this link: https://www.acfb.org/get-help/food-map/

Mercy Seed Ministry

4000 Five Forks Trickum Rd, Lilburn

Saturday 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Lilburn Co-Op

5329 Five Forks Trickum Rd SW, Lilburn

https://lilburnco-op.org/

Lawrenceville Co-Op

52 Gwinnett Dr Suite C, Lawrenceville

https://lawrencevilleco-op.org/

The Quinn House

555 Hurricane Shoals Rd NW, Lawrenceville

https://thequinnhouse.com/

SatisFeed at North Metro Baptist Church

1026 Old Peachtree Rd NE, Lawrenceville

https://www.satisfeed.org/get-food

There are times when families may need a little extra help putting food on the table and that’s okay.
Gwinnett County Community Services offers a wonderful resource that connects families with local food pantries, meal programs, and community organizations providing support across the county. 🌽🍞 Please share the link below with your friends, neighbors, and anyone in your community who could benefit. 🤝 Together, we can make sure no one has to face hunger alone. 💙

https://www.gwinnettcounty.com/departments/communityservices/foodsecurityresources

Want to keep up with all the exciting things happening at BMS? From school events and celebrations to important announcements, we’ve got you covered!

👉 Follow us on social media and be part of our Patriot community:

• Instagram: @berkmarms127

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BerkmarMS

Let’s celebrate our students, families, and staff together because at BMS, Patriots LEAD the way to excellence! 💙❤️

#BMSPatriots #WeAreBerkmar #PatriotsLEAD

Each BMS student will receive a GCPS assigned chromebook for use in class and at home to support their instructional needs. It is the family’s responsibility to monitor the use of the device to ensure that the device is returned in the condition in which it was received.

GCPS has created a 1:1 Parent Support Site to provide further information on chromebook use as well as parent and student responsibilities.

GCPS will assess fines for lost and/or damaged chromebooks and chargers. Please note that incidents of damage or loss do not reset each school year. See the district fine chart below.

Resources:

Student 1:1 Support Site

Parent 1:1 Support Site

Parent and student rights and responsibilities

Please note that incidents of damage or loss do not reset each school year.
Fees are effective July 1, 2024.

Check out this handy schedule to help you stay informed of upcoming soccer games. Go Patriots!

One of the integral parts of creating a harmonious and distraction-free learning space is our "Power Down" electronic device (cell phones, airpods, headphones, etc.) policy. We understand the importance of technology and staying connected in our modern world. However, during school hours, the focus should be on learning, collaborating, and being present.

Should there be an emergency or an urgent concern to communicate with your child, please reach out to the school's main office. We will ensure your child receives the message promptly.

Want to stay connected with BMS? Follow us on Instagram @BerkmarMS127. Follow us on Facebook, www.facebook.com/BerkmarMS.

Updated communication and parent newsletters may be found on these platforms. Additionally, our school website is another great resource for learning more about our school.

Website: https://www.gcpsk12.org/site/default.aspx?PageID=2086
Location: 4355 Lawrenceville Highway, Lilburn, GA, USA
Phone: 770-638-2300