Principal's Corner

Another exciting week is in the books at SCMS! Our students completed checkpoint assessments in each content area, and we welcomed families for interim report pickup and Krispy Kreme doughnut pickup. Students also enjoyed a fun-filled GEAR UP Spirit Week, while our team met to plan the events ahead for our Tigers.

We are excited about what’s ahead and hope you’ll be part of it. Please join us this Wednesday, September 30, as we share where we ended last year, where we are now, and where we hope to go together. As always, thank you for your continued support of Sussex Central Middle School. ~ Dr. Reavis

Please remember:

School hours are 8:20 am - 3:15pm.

If your child reports to school after 8:20 a.m., a parent/guardian must sign in in the front office
If you request a bus change for your child, please call prior to 2:00 p.m. or provide a signed note

Upcoming Dates to Remember:

September 28 - SCMS Megablast Fundraiser Kickoff

September 30 - Annual Title I Meeting and Navigate the School Interactive Fair Event (SCMS)

October 2 - Custodian Appreciation Day

October 10 - World Mental Health Day

October 12 - Student Early Release/Professional Development Day for Staff

October 20 - End of 1st Nine Weeks

October 21 - 2nd Nine Weeks Begin

What to do if You’re Worried About Suicide (Child Mind Institute): This article offers parents and caregivers essential guidance on supporting a child who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts. It emphasizes the importance of open, empathetic communication, seeking professional help, and taking immediate action if there's a risk of harm, including contacting emergency services.
Suicide Prevention: 12 Things Parents Can Do (American Academy of Pediatrics): This guide for parents on preventing youth suicide emphasizes the importance of recognizing warning signs, fostering open communication, and creating a supportive environment, while also providing resources for immediate help and professional support.
Helping Your Loved One Who is Suicidal (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration): This guide is designed to help families who have a loved one who is suicidal or has made a suicide attempt. It provides information on understanding suicide, warning signs, and action steps to take. Additionally, it provides guidance on how to prevent future attempts and keep your loved one safe.
A Journey Toward Health and Hope: Your Handbook for Recovery After a Suicide Attempt (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration): This resource guides people through the first steps toward recovery and a hopeful future after a suicide attempt. It includes personal stories from survivors, and strategies for recovery, such as re-establishing connections and finding a counselor.
Suicide is Different: Providing support for suicide caregivers, Suicide Is Different, offers a variety of resources and tools to help you assist loved ones who may be struggling with suicide.

Help for Cutting and Other Self-Injury (Child Mind Institute): this article is written for caregivers on how to support children who are intentionally hurting themselves, often by cutting or scratching their skin, as a way to manage difficult emotions.
Self-Injury and Recovery, Information for Parents (Cornell Research Program): This resource offers a comprehensive guide for parents navigating the challenges of supporting a child who engages in self-injury. This resource provides insights into recognizing signs of self-injury, understanding the emotional responses parents may experience, and effective communication strategies to foster a supportive environment for healing.
Self-Harm Guide for Parents (Young Minds): This comprehensive guide for parents navigating the complexities of self-harm in young people. The resource covers key topics such as recognizing signs of self-harm, understanding underlying causes, and providing strategies to support your child, including how to engage in open conversations and seek professional help when needed.

Get Ready for the Pretty Purposed Ice Cream Social!

Attention 6th, 7th, and 8th graders and parents—we can’t wait to meet you all! Join us for delicious ice cream, great talk, and an opportunity to connect with your incredible facilitators: Mrs. Michaela Davis, Mrs. Chonita Rose, and Mrs. Katina Johnson.

When: Tuesday, September 29th | 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Where to Park & Enter: Please park in the back of the building and head to the Specials hallway doors (near Spanish, Art, and CTE).

Finding the Entrance: Look for something PINK outside the door so you know you’re in the exact right spot!

Bring your enthusiasm and your sweet tooth—we’ll see you there!

Tiger families, mark your calendars for Wednesday, September 30, 2026, from 5:00–6:00 PM! Join us for our first Family Engagement and Title I event of the 2026 - 2027 school year: Navigating the School Family Engagement Event & Annual Title I Meeting! Come meet our staff, explore school programs and resources, learn what Title I means for our school and families, and discover ways we can work together to support your Tiger’s success. ❤️💙

We believe a strong school community begins with meaningful relationships and genuine partnerships. SCMS is moving in a promising new direction this year, and with your continued involvement and support, we are confident that we can accomplish great things for our students.

Get connected. Get informed. Get involved. We’ll see you on September 30! 🐯🗺️

Did you know Virginia families have access to free resources and training to help them become stronger partners in their child’s education? PEATC provides helpful information on family engagement, working with schools, advocacy, special education, transition, and more—with a special focus on supporting children with disabilities and their families.

📩 Subscribe to PEATC’s newsletter to receive information about free workshops, webinars, resources, and upcoming opportunities for Virginia families.

Visit PEATC & Subscribe to the Newsletter