OMS August 2026
August, 2026
Our School's Vision
Osceola Middle School will cultivate a culture of rigor and excellence where every student is engaged, prepared, and equipped for continued academic success in a safe and inclusive environment.
Principal's Letter
Dear Osceola Middle School Community,
It is with great pride and excitement that I welcome you back for another outstanding school year at Osceola Middle School. As I enter my third year here at OMS, I am incredibly grateful for the progress we have made together and the strong foundation we have built as a school community.
Before looking ahead, I would like to take a moment to celebrate an incredible accomplishment. I am proud to congratulate our students, staff, families, and community on Osceola Middle School earning an "A" school grade for the 2025–2026 school year. This recognition is the result of the hard work, dedication, and commitment demonstrated by our entire school community.
Our success is not only reflected in our school grade, but also in our continued growth. Since 2024, Osceola has increased its overall school performance by 11 percentage points, a remarkable achievement that demonstrates what is possible when we work together with a shared focus on student success. Additionally, for the second consecutive year, Osceola Middle School is not only the highest-performing middle school in Marion County, but also the highest-performing secondary school in the district, outperforming every middle and high school. We have reclaimed and maintained our position as the number one secondary school in Marion County, and we are committed to continuing the pursuit of excellence that has made this success possible.
Over the past two years, we have accomplished great things—academically, behaviorally, and in strengthening our culture. These successes are a direct reflection of our shared commitment to growth, high expectations, and doing what is best for students. I am proud of how far we have come, and even more excited about where we are headed.
At Osceola Middle, we take pride in being the best. We hold ourselves—and our students—to the highest standards in both academics and behavior. We believe every student is capable of excellence, and it is our responsibility to support, challenge, and inspire them to reach their full potential.
This year, our focus and theme center on Excellence. Excellence is not just about achievement—it is about mindset, effort, consistency, and a commitment to improving every single day. It means showing up prepared, treating others with respect, taking ownership of our actions, and striving to be better than we were yesterday. As we celebrate our accomplishments, we also recognize that excellence is not a destination. It is a continuous journey. We will build upon the momentum we have created, continue to raise expectations, and work together to ensure that Osceola Middle School remains the premier secondary school in Marion County.
Together, we will continue to climb, reach new heights, and build on the strong tradition of success that defines Osceola Middle School.
I look forward to another year of partnership with our families, dedication from our staff, and growth from our students. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our school.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Johnson
Principal, Osceola Middle School
Current News
Field Trip Information
Kennedy Space Center (6th grade)
Date: January 15, 2027
Payment Information: TBD
Washington DC (8th grade)
Date: February 4, 2027 - February 8, 2027
Payment Information: TBD
Tallahassee (7th grade)
Date: March 10, 2027
Payment Information: TBD
Gradventure (8th grade)
Date: May 14, 2027
Payment Information: TBD
Please check eligibility criteria in the OMS Student Handbook.
PM 1 Testing Letter
Calendar
2026-2027 Important Dates
August 7, 2026
- Orientation for 6th grade students and students new to OMS!
- Last name A-L: 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
- Last name M-Z: 9:45 AM to 10:30 AM
August 10, 2026
- Welcome back, Students!
August 13, 2026
- Permission forms for Cross Country available in the courtyard before 1st period
August 19, 2026
- Fall Picture Day, click the link to order: https://swiphoto.com/underclass-prepay-2025-26/
August 25, 2026
- Cross Country Practice Begins (Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:15-5:15 PM)
August 26, 2026
- Early Release and Kona Ice
September 5, 2026
- Horse Park Run (Cross Country)
September 7, 2026
- Labor Day, no school
September 10-September 18, 2026
- Scholastic Book Fair
September 12, 2026
- Silver River Run (Cross Country)
September 17, 2026
- PTO/SAC/Annual Title 1 Meeting starting at 4:15 PM in the Media Center
- Washington DC Information Session at 5:00 PM in the Auditorium
- Open House 5:30-7:00 PM
September 23, 2026
- County Run (Cross Country)
September 30, 2026
- Early Release and Kona Ice
October 10, 2026
- South Marion Run (Cross Country)
Please scroll down to the Clubs and Athletics section to view club meeting dates, and athletics game and practice dates (this will be posted in August)
Bell Schedules
8:50 AM Student allowed on campus/breakfast (free for all students)
9:15 AM First Bell
9:20 AM Tardy Bell
3:55 PM Dismissal
Please note that supervision is not provided prior to 8:50 AM or after 4:25 PM. Any students on campus at 4:25 PM will be taken to MAP ($25 emergency drop in fee).
Clubs and Athletics
Handbooks
OMS 2026-2027 OMS Parent & Student Handbook
2026-2027 MCPS Student Code of Conduct
OMS Cell Phone Policy
Thank you for supporting the OMS cell phone policy! Since implementing this policy, our discipline data shows a noticeable decrease in referrals — particularly in incidents related to bullying, misuse of electronics, and fights. Our teachers and staff also report that students are more focused and ready to learn. Great job, Chiefs!
Attendance Matters
If a student is absent from school, an absence note should be submitted to the Guidance Department upon their return. If a note is not provided, the absence will be recorded as unexcused. We encourage students to email their teachers to request any assignments or make up missed work.
Additionally, a note from a parent or physician is required for early check-outs and tardies.
Your child's daily, on-time attendance is critical to their success in school. Students learn best when they are present in the classroom — every minute matters, now more than ever.
A student is considered chronically absent if they miss just two days of school per month — that’s 18 days in a year — whether the absences are excused or unexcused. Even one year of chronic absence can cause a student to fall behind academically and significantly decrease their chances of graduating from high school. This can have lasting effects on their financial independence, physical well-being, and mental health.
The good news? Attending school every day greatly increases a child’s chances of success — both in school and in life. "Showing Up Together!" will improve school attendance when students, families, and schools work as a team to make regular attendance a priority.
*Any changes to the schedule will be communicated by the coach to the students and families
Walker and Car Line Procedures and Safety
Making Carline More Efficient
Please pull all the way forward to the end of the carline sidewalk before loading or unloading. Additionally, avoid leaving large gaps between vehicles. Your cooperation helps us move everyone through the carline quickly and efficiently.
Resources for Parents & Students
Click the form below for instruction on the My Ride K-12 Mobile App!
BRAVO binder
To learn more about BRAVO, click the document below!
Communication
Communication is a top priority for us here at Osceola, and it is an essential part of the strong partnership we share as we work together for the success of our students. If you ever have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are always here to listen, support, and help. For concerns that may be broader in scope, you are also welcome to contact school administration directly.
In today’s world, the “rumor mill” and word of mouth can easily become filled with misinformation, mixed perceptions, and unclear intentions. With the exception of Osceola’s official social media pages, social media is not a reliable source for accurate information or concerns. When you reach out to us directly, it allows us to hear your feedback, clarify information, and make adjustments when needed.
We value open, respectful, and timely communication, and we are committed to providing you with accurate information and exceptional support. Thank you for partnering with us to create the best possible experience for our students and families.
Who Do I Go To for Help?
At Osceola Middle School, we want to make sure you know who to go to when you have a question, concern, or need support. Going to the right person first can help you get the answers and assistance you need more quickly.
- Class schedules, scheduling concerns, or support with time management, academic grades, mental health: School Counselor (Mrs. Lorick or Mrs. Grubbs)
- Conflict with a peer, concerns about another student, or reporting something concerning: Student Services Manager (Mrs. Diel)
- Questions or concerns about a grade or something happening in a class: Classroom Teacher
- Registration, student records, or enrollment information: Information Processing Clerk (Ms. Y. Johnson)
- Attendance questions or concerns: Attendance Clerk (Mrs. Davis)
- Medication or health concerns: Health Clinic Assistant in the Health Clinic (Mrs. Clayton)
- Concerns about a situation on the bus: Bus Driver
We are all here to help you! Following the appropriate chain of command helps ensure that your concern reaches the right person and allows us to provide you with a quicker response and the support you need. If you have reached out to the correct person and find that you still are not getting the help or support you need, please reach out to administration.
District News
MCPS Continuous Notification of Nondiscrimination/Prohibition of Harassment
The Marion County School District does not discriminate on the basis of race (including anti-Semitism), ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability (including HIV, AIDS, or sickle cell trait), pregnancy, religion, marital status, age (except as authorized by law), military status, ancestry, or genetic information, which are classes protected by State and/or Federal law (collectively, "protected classes") in its educational programs, services or activities, or in its hiring or employment practices as required by Title IX, Title VI, Title VII, Age Discrimination Act of 1967, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and the Florida Educational Equity Act of 1984. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission or participation. The District also provides equal access to its facilities for the Boy Scouts and other patriotic youth groups, as required by the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act.
Sexual harassment is a form of discrimination which is against the law and School Board Policies 1362, 2266, 3362, 4362, and 5517. The District will not tolerate sexual harassment activity by any of its members of the school district community, including students, employees, and third parties pursuant to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title IX Rules and Regulations.
Questions, complaints, or requests for additional information regarding discrimination or harassment may be sent to the below designated personnel at 1614 E. Fort King Street, Ocala, FL 34471. Retaliation against an individual who files a report is also prohibited.
ADA, Employee Title IX Coordinator, and Employment Compliance:
Dawana Gary, Director of Employee Relations
Phone: (352) 671-7711; Email address: Dawana.Gary@marion.k12.fl.us
Section 504 Compliance:
Anna Williams-Jones, Director of Exceptional Student Education
Phone: (352) 671-6832; Email address: Anna.Williams-Jones@marion.k12.fl.us
Student Title IX Complaints:
John Kerley, Director of Student Discipline
Phone: (352) 671-7790; Email address: John.Kerley@marion.k12.fl.us
Notificación continua de no discriminación/Prohibición de acoso
El Distrito Escolar del Condado de Marion no discrimina por motivos de raza (incluido el antisemitismo), etnia, color, origen nacional, sexo, orientación sexual, discapacidad (incluido el VIH, el SIDA o el rasgo de células falciformes), embarazo, religión, estado civil, edad (excepto según lo autorizado por la ley), estado militar, ascendencia o información genética, que son clases protegidas por la ley estatal y / o federal (colectivamente, "clases protegidas") en sus programas, servicios o actividades educativas, o en sus prácticas de contratación o empleo según lo requerido por el Título IX, el Título VI, el Título VII de la Ley de Discriminación por Edad de 1967, la Sección 504 de la Ley de Rehabilitación de 1973, la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades de 1990 y la Ley de Equidad Educativa de Florida de 1984. La falta de habilidades en el idioma inglés no será una barrera para la admisión o participación. El Distrito también proporciona igualdad de acceso a sus instalaciones a los Boy Scouts y otros grupos juveniles patrióticos, como lo requiere la Ley de Acceso Igualitario de los Boy Scouts of America.
El acoso sexual es una forma de discriminación que va en contra de la ley y de las Políticas 1362, 2266, 3362, 4362 y 5517 de la Junta Escolar. El Distrito no tolerará actividades de acoso sexual por parte de ninguno de sus miembros de la comunidad del distrito escolar, incluidos estudiantes, empleados y terceros de conformidad con el Título VII de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964 y las Reglas y Reglamentos del Título IX.
Las preguntas, quejas o solicitudes de información adicional con respecto a la discriminación o el acoso pueden enviarse al personal designado a continuación en 1614 E. Fort King Street, Ocala, FL 34471. También se prohíben las represalias contra una persona que presente una denuncia.
ADA, Título IX y Cumplimiento de Equidad: Dawana Gary, Ed.S., Directora, Equidad y Cumplimiento Teléfono: (352) 671-7711; Dirección de correo electrónico: dawana.gary@marion.k12.fl.us
Cumplimiento de la Sección 504: Anna Williams-Jones, M.A.Ed., Directora, Educación para Estudiantes Excepcionales Teléfono: (352)671-6832; Dirección de correo electrónico: anna.williams-jones@marion.k12.fl.us
Quejas estudiantiles sobre el Título IX: John Kerly, Director of Student Discipline
Phone: (352) 236-0536; Email address: John.Kerley@marion.k12.fl.us
