October 30, 2026

October 30, 2026

Hello Central Middle School Families,

I am incredibly proud to share some exciting news with our Ranger community! The 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings of middle schools across the country have been released, and Central Middle School has earned recognition that is truly worth celebrating.

Central Middle School climbed from #7 to #5 among all 2,021 middle schools in the state of Michigan! When you look a little deeper, this accomplishment becomes even more impressive: the four schools ranked ahead of CMS are all selection- or application-based charter schools. That means Central Middle School is the #1 traditional public middle school in Michigan for the second consecutive year!

This recognition reflects far more than a number on a ranking list. It represents the immense dedication our teachers bring to their craft, the commitment our students bring to learning, and the meaningful partnerships we share with our families. It is also a reflection of the incredible work happening throughout Forest Hills Public Schools, the educational foundation that is provided via our curriculum, and the hard work of our elementary schools, where a shared commitment to excellence creates the conditions for longitudinal student success.

At CMS, we believe that academic excellence and a strong sense of belonging go hand in hand. Our vision is that every student, every day, is seen, heard, and cared for. We know that when students feel connected, supported, and challenged, they are better positioned to grow both academically and personally. This recognition is a wonderful affirmation of the work our students, staff, and families do together every day.

Of course, a ranking is only one measure of a school's success. What matters most is what happens inside our classrooms, in our hallways, and in the relationships we build with our students. We will continue to celebrate our accomplishments while remaining focused on the work ahead and finding ways to make Central even better.

To our students, staff, and families: this accomplishment belongs to you. Thank you for the hard work, trust, partnership, and Ranger Pride that make Central Middle School such a special place. I could not be prouder of this community or more grateful for the opportunity to serve as your principal.

We have a lot to celebrate, Rangers. And we are just getting started!

Go Rangers!

Jeff Simon
Proud Principal of Central Middle School
jsimon@fhps.net - (616) 493-8750

November 2 Science Olympiad

November 4 D&D Club, 2:45 pm

November 4 Debate Team, 2:45 pm

November 5 CMS has Talent Auditions after school

November 5 Science Olympiad, 2:45

November 9 2 hour Early Release

Waldo is in there... Can you find him?

Last week, you read a little bit about our new visitor sign in process. Here is a summary of that information with some pictures :)

1. Always enter through the main entrance and check in with the office staff.
2. If your visit will take you beyond the main office, for example, to volunteer or read to a class, bring a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID.

We know what you are thinking... "But, I've been there so many times!"

Yes, that may be true. However, our #1 priority as a school is the safety of our students and staff. We also want to ensure that our processes remain consistent regardless of the FHPS building you enter.

Last week, you read about our new Centegix Alert system... Now watch a news story that aired Wednesday evening on WoodTV8.

Our student scheduling team is working to finalize schedules for second semester. You may notice some changes to your schedule over the next few weeks. Please know that schedules are not finalized until we pass them out prior to winter break.

Its time to see our CMS students shine! CMS has Talent! features students featuring talents of song, dance, music, art, acting.....the possibilities are endless! If your student is interested, please have them come to the Office to sign up. Auditions will be held after school on Thursday, November 5, from 2:50-4:00 PM!

Get ready to celebrate 20 years of Disney's High School Musical! Forest Hills Northern's talented students are bringing this fan-favorite musical to life November 19–21 at the Forest Hills Fine Arts Center! Performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7 PM and Saturday at 3 PM and 7 PM. Don't miss this high-energy show filled with music, dancing, and Wildcat spirit!

Tickets are on sale NOW at FHFAC.Ludus.com or at the FAC Box Office, Monday–Friday, 9 AM–4:30 PM.

Help us bring sunshine and smiles to our staff! Pick a theme, get creative, and provide an edible treat and beverage for approximately 50 staff members. Volunteers must have an FHPS Volunteer Form for the 2026–27 school year on file.

Sign Up for the Treat Trolley

We’re looking for volunteers to make copies for teachers and cover the front desk during office staff meetings. Volunteers must have an FHPS Volunteer Consent Form for the 2026–27 school year on file.

View Volunteer Opportunities & Sign Up

Cannonsburg is offering discounted lift ticket punch cards for K–12 students for the 2026–27 season, with no blackout dates! Purchase by November 30 before prices increase. When purchasing, please be sure to enter “Central Middle School” in the comments section.

Purchase a Cannonsburg Punch Card

• Central High School’s Community Club is hosting its second annual Trunk or Treat event, Wednesday, Oct. 28 (rain date is Oct. 29) from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Forest Hills Central High School’s parking lot in front of the school (the lot off of Hall St.). FHC’s Community Club’s advisor is Rebecca Lipke, a mathematics teacher at FHC. For questions, please contact her at rlipke@fhps.net.

For more opportunities for your student, visit FHPS community flyers.

8th Grade Reproductive Health concludes on Monday. In case you missed it, you can find that letter here.

Show off your FHC pride with some swag from the FHC Swag Store!

OK2SAY is the student safety program that allows students to confidentially report tips on potential harm or criminal activities directed at students, school employees, and schools. It uses a comprehensive communication system to facilitate tip sharing among students, parents, school personnel, community mental health service programs, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and law enforcement officials about harmful behaviors that threaten to disrupt the learning environment.