CMS Cougar Newsletter

Dear CMS Families,

What an amazing start to the school year! The first three days have been full of energy, positivity, and Cougar pride. Our students are already showing us how ready they are to learn, grow, and make this year the best one yet.

One of the highlights of our first week was meeting with each grade level for assemblies. These gatherings gave us the chance to talk with students about expectations, school pride, and most importantly, what it means to be a COUGAR at Covington Middle School.

The teamwork, respect, and excitement we have seen across the building have been inspiring. Teachers are creating welcoming classrooms, students are forming positive connections, and together we are already building the strong foundation needed for a year of excellence.

At Covington Middle School, our vision is clear: One Team. One Track. One Goal: Excellence for Every Student. The first week showed us that our students and staff are committed to living this out every single day.

Thank you for your continued support. Together, we will ensure this year is filled with growth, success, and Cougar pride.

With appreciation,
Lori Mattson
Interim Principal
Covington Middle School

About Our CMS Newsletter

Each edition of the CMS Cougar Newsletter will serve as your go-to source for what’s happening in our school community. Inside, you’ll find:

• Department News: Updates from core classes, electives, and support programs.

• Weekly Highlights: Celebrations of learning, student achievements, and Cougar pride moments.

• Upcoming Events: Key dates and opportunities to stay connected.

• Spotlights & Celebrations: Recognizing students, staff, and families who go above and beyond.

Our goal is to keep families informed, connected, and proud of the incredible things happening at CMS each and every week.

What It Means to Be a COUGAR

During our grade-level assemblies, we focused on the values and expectations that guide everything we do at Covington Middle School.

C.O.U.G.A.R. stands for:

• C – Character

• O – Ownership

• U – Unity

• G – Growth

• A – Accountability

• R – Respect

• S – Safety

In addition to reviewing our COUGAR values, we also talked about the following school-wide expectations:

• Attendance: Being here, on time, every day matters.

• Classroom Expectations: Be prepared, participate, and give your best effort.

• Cell Phone Policy: Phones are away during the day so learning and relationships come first.

• Dress Code: Come to school ready to learn in clothing that is appropriate and respectful.

• Respect: Show respect to staff, peers, and yourself at all times.

• Bus Expectations: Riding the bus is part of the school day. Students are expected to remain seated, follow driver directions, use kind language, and help keep the bus safe for everyone.

• Water Bottle Policy: Only clear water bottles are permitted during the day. Other drinks may be brought in a lunchbox but should remain there until lunchtime.

I also want to take a moment to apologize for not sharing the water bottle information with families sooner. I know this caused some frustration and confusion, and I am sorry for that. I will do better moving forward to communicate important changes in advance so that our families feel informed and supported. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work together to build consistent expectations for our students.

This year, we will celebrate students who demonstrate COUGAR pride in big and small ways every day. Families, please help us by reinforcing these values at home as well!