Miller Memo

Dear Miller Families,

Thank you for a wonderful first week of school! We appreciate your partnership, patience, and support as we welcomed our students back to campus. It has been an exciting week filled with learning, new friendships, and opportunities to begin another successful school year.

Next week, students will continue diving deeper into their curriculum as teaching and learning remain our top priority. Our teachers are committed to providing engaging, rigorous instruction that helps every student grow academically each day.

We are also excited to hold our Grade-Level Town Hall Meetings for each cohort:

• Class of 2031 – 8th Grade
• Class of 2032 – 7th Grade
• Class of 2033 – 6th Grade

During these meetings, we will share each class's goals, expectations, and what it will take for students to have a successful school year. We want every Mustang to understand the importance of responsibility, accountability, perseverance, and good character.

To our families who are new to Miller, welcome! We are excited that you have joined the Mustang family. As a school with a strong tradition of academic excellence and high expectations, we are committed to maintaining an environment where teaching and learning are the priority. Behaviors that interfere with instruction—such as talking back to adults, disrupting the learning environment, sleeping during class, refusing to follow directions, or acts of defiance—will not be tolerated. We ask for your partnership in reinforcing these expectations at home so that every student has the opportunity to learn in a safe, respectful, and productive environment.

We are especially proud to celebrate our outstanding 2025–2026 GMAS Mathematics results! Thanks to the hard work of our students, teachers, and families, Miller Fine Arts Magnet Middle School continues to be one of the highest-performing secondary schools in Bibb County. While we celebrate these accomplishments, we are already focused on building upon that success and reaching even greater heights this school year.

As enrollment continues to change during the first few weeks of school, you may notice some adjustments to student schedules or class assignments. We will be balancing class rosters to ensure equitable class sizes and provide the best possible learning environment for all students. We appreciate your understanding and support as we make these necessary adjustments.

Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education. Together, we will continue Delivering on the Promise—For Every Student. Every Goal. Every Day.

We look forward to another fantastic week at Miller!

Every Day Counts... Stay in the Race!

At Miller Fine Arts Magnet Middle School, every school day is an opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. Just like in the Kentucky Derby, every step matters. Don't fall behind—be at the starting gate and ready to race every day!

Attendance Expectations

To stay in the race, every Mustang is expected to:

• ✅ Have no unexcused absences.*
• ✅ Remember that three (3) tardies equal one (1) unexcused absence.
• ✅ Arrive at school and be in class by 9:05 AM each day.
• ✅ If arriving after 9:05 AM, be signed in by a parent or legal guardian in the front office. Parents/guardians must park, enter the building, and complete the sign-in process.

Students with unexcused absences are not eligible to:

• Students with unexcused absences are NOT eligible to:
• 🏈 Participate in Athletics
• 🎭 Participate in Fine Arts performances or activities
• 🌟 Participate in Leader in Me activities
• 🎉 Participate in clubs, field trips, or other extracurricular programs
• 🎨 Jeopardize their Fine Arts Magnet Program status due to failure to meet attendance expectations.

Parents/Guardians:

For the safety of all students and to ensure an efficient dismissal process, please remain in your vehicle at all times during carpool. Do not exit your vehicle or engage in verbal or physical interactions with students or parents other than your own child. These interactions can distract students, disrupt the dismissal process, and may cause some students to feel uncomfortable. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe, orderly, and respectful environment for everyone.

If you need assistance or need to address a concern, please notify the Front Office. If you see Miller students or parents in physical altercations ON campus call the office or BCSD Campus Police: 478-779-2040. If you see Miller students in physical altercations OFF campus call 911. Staff members will be happy to assist you. This procedure is in place to ensure the safety of all students and to protect everyone from misunderstandings or situations that may arise between parents.

Thank you for helping us maintain a safe, orderly, and efficient carpool process.

The Miller Fine Arts Magnet Middle School Online School Store is your one-stop shop for official Mustang spirit wear and apparel. We are excited to offer a variety of approved school spirit shirts, outerwear, and accessories that can be ordered conveniently online and shipped directly to your home. Please note that Miller fleece jackets are no longer available for purchase through the school.

The school store also offers exclusive spirit items and promotional merchandise designed to show Mustang pride. Please note that some exclusive items are intended for personal use outside of the school day and do not align with Miller's dress code or prohibited items policy. Families should review the Student Dress Code and Prohibited Items guidelines before allowing students to bring or wear purchased items to school.

Every purchase made through the Miller Online School Store directly benefits our school. A portion of the proceeds is returned to Miller Fine Arts Magnet Middle School and helps support student programs, school activities, and other initiatives that enhance the educational experience for our Mustangs.

We encourage families to visit the online store regularly, as new items and seasonal spirit wear may be added throughout the year. Thank you for supporting Miller and showing your Mustang pride!

https://www.bcsdk12.net/parents/parent-portal

Beginning with the 2026–2027 school year, Miller Fine Arts Magnet Middle School is committed to providing a safe, focused, and high-quality learning environment where every student can fully engage in learning without the distractions of personal electronic devices. In accordance with Georgia's Distraction-Free Education Act (HB 340) and the Bibb County School District's Code of Conduct, the use of personal technology during the instructional day is prohibited.

From 8:30 AM until 4:05 PM, students may not use or possess personal electronic devices while on school property. This includes, but is not limited to, cell phones, smartwatches, AirPods, earbuds, over-the-head headphones, Bluetooth headsets, gaming devices, smart glasses, tablets, laptops, and any other personal electronic device.

Students who are members of an official Miller Athletics or Fine Arts roster, or who are enrolled in an approved after-school program, may bring a cell phone only when necessary for transportation after the activity. If a student must bring a device because they are remaining after school, the device must be powered off before entering the building and turned in during check-in to the designated intake staff member, coach, Fine Arts teacher, or after-school program supervisor. The staff member will securely collect and store the device throughout the instructional day and return it to the student at the conclusion of the after-school activity.

Any student who fails to turn in a device during check-in, is found in possession of a device during the instructional day, or uses a personal electronic device without authorization will be subject to disciplinary action. In addition, students participating in Athletics, Fine Arts, or an approved after-school program who fail to comply with these procedures may be removed from the team, organization, or activity at the discretion of the school administration.

Students who are not participating in an approved after-school activity may not bring personal electronic devices into the building.

This state law is designed to maximize instructional time, reduce distractions, strengthen student engagement, improve academic achievement, and promote positive peer relationships by ensuring every student has the opportunity to learn in a focused environment.

Q: What are the school hours?

A: Miller Fine Arts Magnet Middle School operates from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday. The office opens at 9:00 AM-4:00 PM. Students must be off campus prior to 4:30 daily so that staff can leave work on time.

Q: How can I contact the school?

A: You can reach us by phone at (478) 779-4050 from 8:15 AM-4:00 PM. You can also send a message in Parent Square..

Q: How do I find my child's class schedule?

A: Class schedules will be available on Infinite Campus Parent Portal. If you cannot access the parent portal, contact Registrar Ms. A. Turner.

Q: What supplies will my child need?

A: A detailed supply list is available on our website under the 'Back to School' section. Teachers may provide additional lists specific to their classes.

Q: Can I request my child to be placed with their friends?

A: While social connections are important, class assignments are primarily based on educational needs and balancing classrooms. You may mention social preferences, but we cannot guarantee placement with specific peers.

Q: How do I arrange for my child to ride the bus?

A: If you have not registered your child for transportation services or are new to Miller, you make arrangements via the Parent Portal or contact the Registrar, Ms. Turner. IMPORTANT: Parents should be prepared to transport their student(s) at least three school days after registering for transportation services.

Q: Are there any advanced or special programs available?

A: Yes, we offer advanced placement courses, gifted programs, technology/engineering, computer science personalized learning, and intervention programs through Mustang Readiness. Our fine arts integration includes band, chorus, dance, orchestra, theater, and visual arts. Our CTAE programs offer students a Business Computer Science Pathway and an Engineering and Technology Education Pathway.

Q. My child is gifted and currently in the REACH program. Does Miller offer REACH for middle school students?

A. No, BCSD does not offer the REACH pull-out program at the middle school level. In middle school, gifted students are served in their core academic classes by gifted-certified teachers through differentiated instruction, enrichment opportunities, and advanced content designed to meet the needs of gifted learners.

Q: What is the general dress code for students?

A: Students are expected to dress in a manner that is appropriate for a school setting. Clothing should be neat, clean, and not disruptive to the learning environment. Specific guidelines include the prohibition of offensive language or images, and ensuring that clothing covers appropriately.

Q: What happens if a student violates the dress code?

A: If a student violates the dress code, they may be asked to change into appropriate attire. Repeated violations may result in further disciplinary action, as outlined in the student handbook.

Q: What should I do if my child is unsure about the dress code?

A: If there is any uncertainty about whether a specific item of clothing is appropriate, it’s best to choose an alternative or consult with a teacher or school administrator before wearing it to school.

Q: What is the policy on footwear?
A: Students must wear closed-toe shoes suitable for a school environment. Flip-flops, slides, and high-heeled shoes are not allowed for safety reasons. Crocs must not be worn unless announced by the principal.

Q: What athletic teams are available?

A: We offer a variety of athletic teams, including football, volleyball, basketball, softball, track, baseball, soccer, cheerleading, and wrestling. Information about joining teams is provided at the beginning of the school year and through announcements. You can also contact the athletic coordinator, Reginald Rhodes.

Q: What clubs are available?

A: We offer a variety of extracurricular organizations, including Academic Team, Lighthouse Team, Beta Club, Math Team, Future Business Leaders of America, Jazz Band, Pep Band, Concert Band, Dance Team, Book Club, News Team, Chorus, Orchestra, Art Society, Miss Miller Pageant, and Mr. Miller Competition. Information about joining clubs and teams is provided at the beginning of the school year and through announcements.

Q: Who should I contact for more information about Fine Arts classes?

A: For more information, contact the Fine Arts Department Lead, Sydney King or the school office. They can provide details about programs, schedules, and enrollment.

Q: Are there opportunities for students to perform or showcase their work?

A: Yes, students have opportunities to perform in concerts, recitals, theater productions, art exhibitions, and dance showcases throughout the school year. There may be additional fees associated with attending performances and showcases.

Q: What support services are available for students?

A: We offer counseling services, academic tutoring, and mental health support. For assistance with support services, please contact Erin Kelly, Family Engagement Facilitator.

Q: How can I request support for my child?

A: Contact the school counselor or the front office to discuss your child's needs and arrange appropriate support services. For assistance with support services, please contact Ms. Little or Ms. E. Brown.

Q: How does the school communicate with parents?

A: We communicate through newsletters, emails, our school website, and social media. Important updates are also sent via Parent Square.

Q: What should I do if my child is being teased/bullied at school?
A: If your child is being bullied, please report it immediately to their teacher, school counselor, or school administrator. If your child discloses at home, please email school administrators (Ms. Gibson & Mr. Harvey) as soon as possible. Prompt reporting helps us address the issue quickly and effectively.

Q: What if the bullying occurs outside of school?
A: If bullying occurs outside of school but affects your child's well-being at school, please report it to the school administration. If your child discloses at home, please email school administrators (Ms. Gibson & Mr. Harvey) as soon as possible. Prompt reporting helps us address the issue quickly and effectively.

Q: How does the school handle cyberbullying?
A: Cyberbullying is treated as seriously as in-person bullying. Reports of cyberbullying will be investigated, and appropriate actions will be taken based on the Code of Conduct and the state law. Students are encouraged to report any online harassment to school officials.

Q: What is the school’s definition of bullying?

A: Bullying is defined as repeated and intentional harm inflicted through physical, verbal, or social aggression. It includes actions such as teasing, spreading rumors, physical attacks, and excluding someone on purpose. Most instances of bullying begin at home via cell phones after school hours. Students are using text messages, social media, game chats, and Facetime to engage in inappropriate conversations. Please speak with the child about using technology responsibly and not engaging in inappropriate behaviors. All reports will be taken seriously for all involved.

Q: How can I stay informed about school events and news?

A: Follow us on social media, check our website regularly, and ensure your contact information is up-to-date so you can receive newsletters and notifications.

Q: What health and safety measures are in place at the school?

A: We follow strict health and safety protocols, including regular cleaning, health screenings, and emergency drills. Our staff is trained to handle various health and safety situations.

Q: What should I do if my child is sick?

A: If your child is sick, please keep them at home and notify the school. However, please monitor your child's attendance numbers. Students with excessive absences may have to attend Saturday School to make up or impact their promotion to the next grade. Please contact counselors Ms. E. Brown or N. Little for assistance with sick student absences.

Q: What supplies will my child need?

A: A detailed supply list is available on our website under the 'Back to School' section. Teachers may provide additional lists specific to their classes.

Q: How will I know what my child is learning?

A: Teachers will send home syllabi and regular updates via Parent Square, and the weekly school newsletter, The Miller Memo, will outline the lessons for the week.

Q: Are there any assessments at the beginning of the year?

A: Diagnostic assessments will be used to gauge students' starting points and tailor instruction accordingly. We will take the Beacon Assessment in August. Select students will complete the STAR Math and Reading. Students' schedules may be adjusted to support personalized learning due to their results.

Q: How can I get involved with the school?

A: There are many ways to get involved, including joining the Miller Parent Club, volunteering at school events, and participating in parent-teacher conferences. For assistance getting involved at Miller, please get in touch with Erin Kelly, Family Engagement Representative.

Q: Can I request a specific teacher for my child?

A: While we strive to accommodate parent preferences, class assignments are based on multiple factors to ensure balanced and effective learning environments for all students.

Q: What is the school's policy on phone usage?

A:See the State of GA's Distraction Free Education Act

Q: Why was my child's phone confiscated?

A: Phones may be confiscated if they are used or found to be in possession at school. See the State of GA's Distraction Free Education Act.

Q: How will I be notified if my child's phone is confiscated?

A: You will receive a notification from the school via phone call or email explaining the circumstances of the confiscation and the steps to retrieve the phone. Confiscated phones can typically be retrieved by a parent or guardian from the front office during office hours, 9:00 AM-3:45 PM. Please bring a valid ID for verification.

Q: Can my child get their phone back without a parent or guardian present?

A: The custodial parent or guardian must retrieve the phone. However, if there are extenuating circumstances, please get in touch with the school administration to discuss possible alternatives. The office hours are 8:30-3:45 PM. Parents must arrange to pick up your students phone during that time.

Q: What are the consequences of repeated violations of the phone policy?

A: Consequences can include longer periods of confiscation, mandatory meetings with parents, and other disciplinary actions as per the school's code of conduct. If students become defiant about confiscation, they may be suspended for up to ten days.

Q: How can I contact my child during school hours if they don't have their phone?

A: In case of an emergency, you can contact the school office, and they will relay the message to your child. Students can also use school phones with permission.

Q: What should I do if I disagree with the confiscation?

A: If you have concerns or disagree with the confiscation, please contact the school administration to discuss the state law.

Q: How can I help my child understand the importance of following the phone policy?

A: Discuss the state law with your child, emphasizing its reasons for minimizing distractions and maintaining a focus on learning.

Q: Can I speak with the principal without an appointment?

A: While it's best to schedule an appointment, the principal may be available for urgent matters. Please check in at the front office, and they will assist you in determining the principal's availability. The preset days for conferences are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday during the students connections class period.

Q: What should I do if I have an emergency and need to speak with the principal immediately?

A: In an emergency, contact the school office at (478) 779-4050 and explain the situation. The office staff will prioritize your request and connect you with a First Responder, who will resolve the problem or schedule the principal. If the emergency is after hours, please send a message in Parent Square to Mr. Keywon Harvey, Assistant Principal.

Q. At what time is a student considered tardy to school? What are the penalties for excessive tardies to school?

A. Students are considered tardy if they are absent in homeroom class by 9:05 AM. According to the attendance policy, the 3rd tardy in a given semester will equal one absence. Students may be assigned after school program or Saturday school for excessive tardies.

Q. How long does a student have to be in school each day to be considered present?

A. To be counted present, a student must attend for at least four hours of instruction. Any student checking out of school before 12:30 PM. and not returning will be counted absent. Any student arriving at school after 12:30 PM, except on a late bus, will be counted absent for the day.

Q. What is the procedure for requesting make-up work?

A. It is the student’s responsibility to ask teachers about missed work. Parents who call the office to request makeup work for their child may pick it up in the office 24 hours following the request. Upon the student’s return after an absence, he/she is given three (3) school days to complete make-up work.

Q. How can I find out if extra credit is available?

A. Check with your teacher to see if they offer extra credit opportunities. Extra credit assignments may also be listed on the course syllabus or announced in class.

Q: How long does it take to get a response from the principal?

A: The principal aims to respond to inquiries within 24 hours from the time the email was sent. Please indicate the urgency in your message or call to expedite the response for urgent matters. The quickest response will be by email.

Q: What is the expected response time for teachers to reply to parent emails or calls?

A: Teachers are expected to respond to parent emails and calls within 24 hours during school days. Teachers are not required to respond after school hours, on weekends, or on holidays.

Q: What should I do if I have not received a response from my child's teacher within the expected time frame?

A: If you are still waiting to receive a response within 48 hours, please send a follow-up email or call. If there is still no response, contact the school office to speak with Keywon Harvey, Assistant Principal.

Q: Are teachers available for immediate phone calls or meetings?

A: Due to classroom responsibilities, teachers have limited availability during the school day. To ensure a productive conversation, we kindly ask that all meetings or phone calls be scheduled in advance through email or by contacting the school office.

Parent Conference Days:

• Mondays and Fridays during your child’s Connections period.

Grade-Level Conference Times:

• 6th Grade:9:55 AM – 11:00 AM

• 7th Grade: 1:40 PM – 2:40 PM

• 8th Grade: 11:05 AM – 12:00 PM

Fine Arts/Connections Teacher Availability:

• Monday–Wednesday & Friday: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM

We appreciate your understanding and look forward to partnering with you for your child’s success.

Q: What constitutes chronic misbehavior?
A: Chronic misbehavior refers to repeated and persistent disruptive behaviors that interfere with the learning environment and are not resolved through initial interventions. This can include frequent rule-breaking, disrespect towards staff and peers, and failure to comply with school policies.

Q: How does the school address chronic misbehavior?
A: The school uses a tiered approach to address chronic misbehavior, starting with classroom interventions and progressing to more intensive supports if needed. This includes meetings with parents, behavior plans, counseling, and, in severe cases, disciplinary actions. At Miller Fine Arts Magnet Middle School, we are committed to providing a safe and productive learning environment for all students. To ensure this, any student who repeatedly engages in behavior that disrupts the operation of the school or interferes with the learning of others will face disciplinary consequences. These consequences may include, but are not limited to, in school suspension, suspension, loss of privileges, and, in severe cases, alternative placement at SOAR academy. Our goal is to address and correct disruptive behavior promptly and effectively while supporting the student's ability to make positive changes.

Q: My student says they don’t like the school food. What can I do?

A: We understand that students have individual preferences when it comes to food. While our cafeteria follows USDA guidelines to provide balanced, nutritious meals, we also encourage families to pack a lunch from home: Students are welcome to bring a healthy, non-shareable lunch from home. Please avoid large bags of chips, candy, or soda. Drinks should be in a spill-proof container. If you have meal concerns or dietary restriction, contact our school’s cafeteria manager, Ms. Floyd. We are happy to help with accommodations when possible and to address specific dietary needs or preferences. Please note that students should not go without eating. Skipping meals can lead to headaches, stomach aches, and difficulty focusing in class.

Q: How much homework should my child expect each night?

A: Homework will vary by subject and grade level, but students should expect to have a reasonable amount of independent practice to reinforce classroom instruction. If your child is struggling to complete homework regularly or if assignments seem excessive, please reach out to their teacher to discuss support options.

Q: I want to change my child’s schedule, class, or teacher. What is the process?

A: At this time, schedule changes are not permitted unless there is a documented academic or placement concern. Our teachers are highly qualified and committed to supporting all students.
If your child is missing a required class or appears to be in the wrong level, please contact the school counselor. Teacher or friend preference-based requests cannot be honored.

Q: What is a Support Connections class, and why is my student enrolled in it?

A: Support Connections is designed to provide targeted academic support, such as help with reading, math, or emotional regulation. Placement is determined using student data, teacher recommendations, and team-based decisions to support student success.

Q: How often are grades updated in Infinite Campus/Parent Portal?

A: Teachers are expected to post at least one grade per week, usually by the following Monday. This allows time for reviewing, grading, and inputting assignments accurately. Parents and students are encouraged to check Infinite Campus weekly to stay informed on progress and to address concerns early.