McNair MS Weekly Newsletter
October 11, 2026
Dear McNair Astros Families,
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Ronald E. McNair Middle School. Together, we are working to ensure our students grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Your involvement and support make a difference, and we appreciate all you do to help our Astros succeed!
📅 Federal Holiday – Monday, October 12, 2026
Please remember that students will be out of school on Monday, October 12, in observance of the federal holiday. We look forward to welcoming our Astros back to school on Tuesday, October 13.
📚 Attendance Matters – We Need Your Help!
We are seeing an increase in the number of students who are chronically absent, and we need your help to address this concern. We want every student to be successful, but students must be present to fully participate in instruction, receive support from their teachers, and experience meaningful learning opportunities. A student is considered chronically absent when they miss more than 18 school days during the academic year. That is a significant amount of instructional time, and we want to work together to prevent our students from falling behind.
Please remember that students have five remote learning days per semester, for a total of 10 remote learning days for the school year, when applicable under district guidelines. If you have questions about attendance or need assistance with using these remote learning days, please contact our school social worker, Ms. Drayton, for guidance and support.
We love our students, value their growth, and need them at school! Consistent attendance is one of the most important ways families can support student achievement.
📝 Nine-Week Grades Available Friday, October 16
Nine-week grades will be visible to parents in Infinite Campus (IC) on Friday, October 16, 2026. Please take time to review your child's grades, celebrate progress, and identify any areas where additional support may be needed. We encourage you to communicate with your child's teachers about questions or concerns regarding academic performance.
🚫 Student Safety, Bullying, Harassment, and Vaping
We remain committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and supportive learning environment for all students. Please partner with us by reminding your child of the importance of making positive choices and treating others with respect.
McNair Middle School maintains expectations regarding:
- Bullying: Bullying is not tolerated.
- Harassment: Students are expected to treat all members of our school community with dignity and respect.
- Vaping: Vaping and possession or use of prohibited vaping products are not permitted on school grounds.
Students who violate the Fulton County Schools Student Code of Conduct will receive appropriate consequences in accordance with district policies and procedures. Your reinforcement of these expectations at home helps us maintain a positive school culture.
📣 PSAT Testing Date Change
Please be advised that we have rescheduled the PSAT testing date for our eighth-grade students. We need additional time to ensure our teachers and students are adequately prepared for testing. We will communicate the revised testing date in our next newsletter. Thank you for your flexibility and understanding.
As always, thank you for your continued trust, partnership, and commitment to our students. At McNair, we believe that when families and schools work together, students thrive. Let's continue to encourage consistent attendance, academic growth, responsible choices, and excellence in all that our Astros do.
Rooted in Excellence. Excellence Is the Standard!
With appreciation,
Dr. Keenan Cameron
Principal
Student Code of Conduct and Discipline Handbook
Parents/Guardians,
Please take a moment to review the Student Code of Conduct document linked below. After reviewing the document, please complete the acknowledgment in Infinite Campus by August 31.
Submitting the acknowledgment confirms that you have received and reviewed the Student Code of Conduct and are aware of the district's expectations for student behavior and conduct.
Student and Parent Device Handbook
Parents/Guardians,
Please take a few moments to review the Student/Parent/Guardian Device Handbook with your child. The handbook outlines important expectations for the care, use, and responsibility of school-issued devices.
We also encourage families to consider purchasing device insurance. Device insurance can help reduce the financial burden associated with accidental damage, loss, or repair of student devices throughout the school year.
https://www.fultonschools.org/all-departments/information-technology/it
Fall TAG Testing Notification for Families
McNair Middle School will conduct Fall TAG (Talented and Gifted) testing on October 9, October 13, and October 15, 2026.
Students identified for testing will participate in one or more assessments that may include the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT), Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test (NNAT3), Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking (TTCT), and Stanford Achievement Test as part of the TAG eligibility and review process. Identified students have already been notified and will receive passes to report to the testing location at their scheduled testing times.
Families are encouraged to ensure that students arrive at school on time, are well-rested, and are prepared to do their best. Please note that only students selected for testing will participate in these assessments. Testing will occur throughout the designated dates, with October 15 serving as a make-up day if needed.
For additional information about the TAG identification process, eligibility requirements, and assessment criteria, please refer to the full TAG Testing Information document linked below. [
Please access the link here for the English document
📣 PSAT 8/9 Assessment Postponed
Please be advised that the PSAT 8/9 administration for all eighth-grade scholars, originally scheduled for Wednesday, October 14, 2026, has been postponed until March 2027. We will share the new testing date and additional details as soon as they become available.
The PSAT 8/9 is more than just a test. It provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate their strengths in reading, writing, and mathematics while gaining valuable insight into their college and career readiness journey. The assessment helps scholars identify areas for growth and supports their preparation for future academic success.
Thank you for your flexibility, understanding, and continued support of our students as we prepare for a successful administration of the assessment in the spring.
6th Grade Team
- 6th Grade Advanced Math
- 6th Grade Math
- 6th Grade Science
- 6th Grade ELA
- 6th Grade Social Studies
Ronald E. McNair Middle School's Personal Electronic Devices (PED) Policy
This school year, Ronald E. McNair Middle School is fully implementing the Fulton County Schools Personal Electronic Devices (PED) Policy. Under this policy, all personal electronic devices (PEDs), including but not limited to cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, and similar devices, must be powered off and stored in students' individually assigned lockers from 8:55 a.m. to 4:05 p.m.
This bell-to-bell PED policy is designed to support a focused learning environment, promote student well-being, and enhance school safety. Limited exceptions are available for students with documented IEP or Section 504 accommodations, verified medical needs, or approved instructional use.
Students who are found in violation of the PED policy will have their devices confiscated and submitted to Principal Cameron for safekeeping. Parents or guardians may retrieve confiscated devices between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Additionally, progressive disciplinary measures will be implemented, including mandatory parent conferences and increased
consequences for repeated violations.
We encourage all families to review the attached flyer for detailed information regarding policy expectations, approved exceptions, and disciplinary procedures. Thank you for your partnership in supporting a safe and productive learning environment for all students.
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration at McNair Middle School
From September 15 through October 15, McNair Middle School will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by honoring the rich cultures, histories, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic communities.
Throughout the month, students will participate in engaging activities, including daily trivia, cultural displays, interactive food and geography challenges, a door-decorating contest, student and staff spotlight videos, and a special Hispanic Heritage Spirit Week.
These activities are designed to promote learning, appreciation, and celebration of the diverse Hispanic heritage represented within our school community. We look forward to learning together and celebrating the many contributions of Hispanic cultures with our students and families.
Zone 6 Community Meetings
Families, we invite you to join Fulton County Schools Board Member Kimberly Dove at the upcoming District 6 Community Meetings. These meetings give you a chance to stay informed, share your voice, and learn about important initiatives affecting our schools and community.
We encourage all families to attend and partner with us in supporting student success. We hope to see you there!
All Scheduled Events
Families, we invite you to partner with us throughout the school year by attending our upcoming Ronald E. McNair Middle School events! From parent workshops and curriculum nights to Title I meetings and family engagement opportunities, each event is designed to keep you informed, connected, and empowered to support your child's success. We look forward to seeing you there as we continue working together to ensure that Excellence is the Standard! 🚀⭐
Mark your calendars and join us. Your involvement makes a difference! 💙❤️
Fulton County Schools Digital Library
The Fulton County Schools Digital Library provides students with free, 24/7 access to a variety of digital reading and learning resources both at school and at home. Through platforms such as Sora, Beanstack, TumbleBooks, and MackinVIA, students can read eBooks and audiobooks, participate in reading challenges, explore educational databases, and access interactive learning materials.
Getting started is simple: students log into ClassLink, open a reading app, and begin reading and learning. The Digital Library supports literacy development, builds confidence, expands knowledge, and encourages lifelong reading habits. All resources are available at no cost to Fulton County Schools students.
Access the flyer for additional information, QR codes, and step-by-step instructions for getting started.
Beanstack Reading Challenge Launch
Families, we need your support! 📚🚀
Help McNair Middle School continue soaring in the Fulton County 15 Million Minutes Reading Challenge! Encourage your scholar to visit the school or local library, check out a book, read daily, and log their reading minutes in Beanstack. Every minute counts toward our school goal and helps us move closer to reaching Pathfinder status. Together, we can build strong readers and reach 15 million minutes one page at a time!
Encourage your scholar to: Read. Log. Achieve. Let's keep McNair in the top rankings! ⭐📖🛸
Help Kids Balance Their Media Lives
To demonstrate our commitment, McNair Middle School would like to share some family tips about the Digital Media Lessons to discuss at home.
Help Kids Balance Their Media Lives encourages families to create healthy technology habits by setting screen-free times and spaces, using digital well-being tools, modeling positive media use, helping children recognize healthy and unhealthy screen behaviors, and discussing how technology and social media are designed to keep users engaged. The goal is to help children develop a balanced relationship with technology while supporting their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
The C.T. Vivian Foundation (CTVF) Productive Struggle Program is a literacy support initiative partnering with Ronald E. McNair Middle School during the 2026-2027 school year. The program is designed to strengthen students’ reading skills through personalized literacy instruction, volunteer mentorship, and enrichment experiences that build confidence, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and positive reading habits.
The program will serve approximately 20-30 scholars, primarily identified from 7th and 8th grade literacy support tiers. Beginning September 28, 2026, students will participate in regular literacy sessions led by community volunteers and supported by school staff. Families will also receive resources and guidance to encourage reading at home.
Japan - An Unforgettable Adventure Awaits!
Parents, imagine your child exploring the rich culture, history, and innovation of Japan in Summer 2028! Join us for a special informational meeting to learn about this exciting educational travel opportunity that will help students build confidence, independence, and a global perspective.
📅 Date: October 20, 2026
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Room A150, McNair Middle School
- Learn how to save $250 through early enrollment
- Receive first access to limited trip spots
- Explore the itinerary, academic experiences, travel costs, and more
- Hosted by: April Remy, World Languages Department Chair, McNair Middle School.
This trip to Japan promises to be a life-changing opportunity for students, and space is limited. Don't miss the chance to discover how your child can be part of this incredible international experience!
👉 RSVP and learn more here: by accessing this link
Progress Monitoring Updates for Families
At Ronald E. McNair Middle School, we are committed to keeping families informed about their child's academic growth. Families of students receiving interventions will receive progress monitoring reports as required by the district. To help you better understand these reports, we have included an informational letter and graphic that explain how to access progress monitoring data and interpret your child's progress.
Please take a few moments to review the resources linked below. They provide step-by-step guidance for accessing Reading and Math intervention information through the Infinite Campus Parent Portal, as well as information about specialized progress reports. Together, these tools will help you stay informed and engaged in your student's learning journey.
WCYE Fall Opportunities for McNair Families
McNair Middle School is excited to partner with WCYE to share several upcoming opportunities for our students and families. Highlights include the Parent Blueprint: Grace-Based Parenting Boot Camp for parents of middle school students, a Student Movie Experience, the Identity Unleashed Girls’ Tea Party for middle school girls, and a College Tour opportunity for 7th and 8th grade students. These experiences are designed to support students’ academic, social, and personal growth while strengthening family engagement. Families are encouraged to review the flyer below and register as soon as possible. For select events, RSVP by texting WCYEBRIDGE to 51555.
School Governance Council
The McNair Middle School School Governance Council (SGC) is inviting parents, staff, and community members to provide feedback, suggestions, questions, and comments to help inform council decisions. Community members can submit public comments by scanning the QR code listed below.
The School Governance Council is responsible for:
- Approving the school's Strategic Plan and updates
- Approving the annual budget and resource allocations
- Managing flexibility requests
- Participating in the hiring of the principal when applicable
- Providing annual feedback on principal performance
Important Payment System Update for Fulton County Schools
Beginning this school year, Fulton County Schools is transitioning its online payment platform from OSP (Online School Payments) to SchoolCash Online.
Families are encouraged to register for SchoolCash Online and add their students as soon as possible to ensure they are prepared to make school-related payments throughout the year.
Key Benefits of SchoolCash Online:
- Safe and secure payment system trusted by schools nationwide
- Convenient online payments anytime, anywhere
- Access to payment reminders and payment history
- Ability to manage multiple students under one account
Families can register by visiting SchoolCash Online through the district website or by scanning the QR code provided on the flyer.
Register early and add your student(s) now to avoid delays and be ready for the school year ahead.
Congratulations to Our 2026-2027 SGA Officers!
McNair Middle School is proud to recognize and celebrate our newly elected Student Government Association (SGA) Officers for the 2026-2027 school year. These outstanding student leaders will serve as representatives of the 8th-grade class, helping to amplify student voice, promote school spirit, support service initiatives, and foster a positive school culture.
We are excited to see the creativity, leadership, and dedication these students will bring to our school community. Their commitment to serving others and making a positive impact reflects the values we strive to cultivate at McNair Middle School.
Congratulations to our SGA Officers! We thank our families for their continued support and look forward to a successful and inspiring school year together. These student leaders will help strengthen connections within our school and community through leadership and service.
McNair Middle School SGA Advisory Team
McNair Astros Flame Dance Team
The McNair Astros Flame Dance Team, sponsored by Mr. Kevin Moore-Brown, Ms. Vanessa Lewis, and Ms. Taylor Malone, provides students with opportunities to develop leadership, discipline, teamwork, and creativity through dance while representing McNair Middle School with pride. Team members perform at school and community events throughout the year and are expected to maintain strong academic and behavioral standing.
We are excited to announce that the Dance Team will compete in the Battle on the Southside Middle School Dance Line Competition on October 24, 2026, at 12:00 PM at M.D. Roberts School of the Arts in Clayton County. This event will showcase dance teams from across the region in categories including field show, stand battle, creative performance, and parade. We wish our dancers the very best as they prepare to represent McNair with excellence and school spirit!
Parents interested in learning more about the team may contact Mr. Moore-Brown at moorebrownk@fultonschools.org or Ms. Malone at malonet@fultonschools.org or Ms. Lewis at
Tennis Club
Men of McNair
