Scott's Branch Middle High School

Welcome back to Eagle Nation for the 2025-26 school year! I am excited to begin another year at Scott's Branch Middle / High School, where we will prepare students for their futures in college enrollment, employment, or enlistment.

I am continually inspired by the dedication of our staff and the community's commitment to student success. A warm welcome to all new staff and community members! I look forward to working together to increase opportunities and success for our students. Let's make this year surpass all others!

Scott's Branch Middle High School embodies a legacy of excellence, grounded in scholarship, service, and spirit. As principal, my focus will be on:

• Respecting and building upon Clarendon's rich culture.
• Using student achievement data to inform instruction.
• Supporting equitable opportunities for all students.
• Utilizing the workshop model to address challenges.
• Ensuring every student's academic, social, and emotional needs are met.

These guiding points will shape our commitment to excellence. Our school community thrives and becomes stronger when we work together in unity and collaboration. I am excited to see the innovative ideas and initiatives that will emerge as we work together to make this school year our best yet!

Let's make the 2025-26 school year a remarkable chapter in our school's history!

Rise up, Eagle Nation, and meet the expectation!

Dr. Tyrone Cummings, Ed. D.

Principal

Each student at SBMHS will be assigned a school-issued laptop and charger to use for the 2025-2026 school year. All SBMHS middle school students have received their school-issued laptop and charger and high school students will be issued devices/chargers in the near future. We thank our students and parents for their support and understanding as we ensure that all our students have the necessary tools to be successful this school year.

Chromebooks/ThinkPads are used as instructional tools. With this privilege and opportunity come responsibilities for each student as outlined in the Technology User Agreement. If a device/charger is damaged, a repair ticket is entered, and the student's account is charged accordingly. Students are expected to return the device and charger at the designated date and time in clean and good condition.

We are so excited to welcome you back to Scott's Branch Middle High School! We hope that summer break was full of relaxation. Each week we will be sharing what is happening in our classrooms at SBMHS. This week it is our pleasure to introduce our new staff members to everyone. Be on the lookout for next week's newsletter to see spotlights of the teaching and learning happening at SBMHS.

As we kick off a brand-new school year, it’s natural for students to feel a mix of excitement, nervousness, and curiosity. Whether they’re stepping into our building for the first time or returning after summer break, transitions can be challenging. That’s where Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) comes in—a powerful way to help students not only adjust but thrive.

What is SEL?

Social-Emotional Learning is all about helping students build skills in self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. These skills prepare them to manage emotions, set goals, show empathy, and make positive choices—both in and out of the classroom.

Why is SEL important during back-to-school?

Eases Anxiety – Encourages healthy coping skills for first-day jitters.

Fosters Friendships – Builds communication and empathy to connect with classmates.

Boosts Confidence – Helps students recognize their strengths and set goals.

Supports Academic Success – A calm, focused mind is ready to learn.

Tips for a Smooth Transition:

Create Routines Early – Consistent sleep, homework, and morning schedules help students feel secure.

Encourage Open Conversations – Let your child share their feelings about school without judgment.

Model Positive Coping Skills – Show how you handle challenges calmly.

Celebrate Small Wins – Acknowledge efforts, not just results.

How Our School Supports SEL:

This month, we’ll be incorporating daily check-ins, classroom SEL writing prompts, and mindfulness moments into the school day. As your school social worker, I’m here to support students, families, and teachers in making this transition a positive one.

Let’s Work Together

The beginning of the school year is more than just opening books—it’s opening hearts and minds. Together, we can help our students feel safe, valued, and respected.

Thanks once again for your support!

Marjetta J. Butler, LMSW

School Social Worker/Parent Liaison

Dr. Cummings