Titan Talk

Dear Titan Families,

We are off to a fantastic start and have several important events coming up. Please review the reminders below:

📅 Tuesday, August 18

• Coffee with Admin & PTSA Meeting at 9:00 AM in the Media Center.
• Spirit Night @ Jeremiah's Italian Ice, starting at 4:00 PM

📸 Wednesday, August 19

• Picture Day for all students.
• Community Meeting with Sara Gillespie, Fulton County Schools District 1 Board Member, at 9:30 AM at Elkins Pointe. Join us to learn more about district updates and initiatives.

📘 Yearbooks on Sale Now - Click HERE!

• Purchase your child's yearbook early to take advantage of the lowest price of the year. Additional ordering information for 8th Grade Recognition Ads is below.

⚽ Soccer Tryouts (7th & 8th Grade)

• Tryouts will be held August 18-19 after school until 5:30 PM.
• A current physical must be uploaded to Rank One before tryouts. Students without a completed physical in Rank One will not be permitted to participate.

💻 Title I Technology Night

• September 2, 2026 via Microsoft Teams: https://tinyurl.com/TECH-MTG-EPMS-02SEP2026
• Learn everything you need to know about Canvas and Infinite Campus. This session will help families stay connected and informed about their child's learning.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing you at these upcoming events!

With gratitude,

AJ Smith

Principal of Elkins Pointe

"It takes a village."

Please join PTSA by clicking here to sign up, renew, or donate today!

The 8th-grade students recently enjoyed a special visit from “Sir Robert Boyle,” portrayed by Science teacher Mr. Clayton Bradley. Dressed as the famous 17th-century scientist, Mr. Bradley introduced students to Boyle's important contributions to science.

Often called the “Father of Chemistry,” Robert Boyle is best known for Boyle’s Law, which explains the relationship between the pressure and volume of a gas. Students also learned about his work with air pressure, laboratory experiments, and his role in helping develop the modern scientific method.

Mr. Bradley’s engaging presentation brought history and science together, giving students a fun and memorable way to learn about one of the world’s most influential scientists.

Thank you Troop 1717! Scouts from Troop 1717 just completed an Eagle Scout project in the woods behind EPMS. They repaired and replaced benches, cleared, and then dressed a trail next to our outdoor classroom (also built for an Eagle project). We are thrilled that our students will continue to enjoy these outdoor spaces!

Are you involved in Scouting?

EPMS has Eagle Project opportunities! We would like to expand and improve the trails through the woods behind the school, and we need help! If you are involved in a troop and know scouts who are getting close to their Eagle rank, let them know about EPMS. They can reach out to Mr. Gamba for more information. gamba@fultonschools.org

Student Success Skills (SSS) Student Inventory: As part of our Student Success Skills (SSS) program, students will be asked to complete a brief pre-inventory during the week of August 24. Students complete the inventory by indicating if they almost always, always, sometimes, or never apply skills of Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Competence, Collaborative Problem Solving, Reflective Learning Strategies, and Sense of Belonging. It includes 15-20 items and is administered to students in the Fall and Spring. It takes about 15 minutes to complete.

Parents can choose to opt their student out of the inventory. To opt out, parents must submit a written request to the School Principal.

Digital Citizenship Family Engagement Requirement: As students spend more time online - whether for learning, socializing, or entertainment - parents play a key role in reinforcing positive digital habits at home. By being informed about topics like online safety, screen time, cyberbullying, and media literacy, parents can support their children in making smart choices and becoming responsible digital citizens.

DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS & FAMILIES:

1) Common Sense Media Family Tech Planners in English & Spanish.

• Family Tech Planner: Age 9-12 | Common Sense Media
• Family Tech Planner: Age 9-12_Spanish | Common Sense Media

2) Articles and advice from Common Sense Media in English & Spanish.

• How to Help Kids Balance Phones and Screens with Sleep | Common Sense Media
• Cómo ayudar a los niños a equilibrar el uso de teléfonos y pantallas con el sueño | Common Sense Media

3) Parenting in a Digital Age video.

• Kids and Tech: How Much Is Too Much?

Our family engagement workshops provide practical tools, resources, and information to help your child succeed both at school and at home. All Elkins Pointe families are invited!

Event/Workshop Schedule:

• Sept. 2, 2026 | Technology at the Pointe (Microsoft Teams, 6 PM)
• Sept. 29, 2026 | Annual Title I Parent Meeting (9 AM & 6 PM)
• Oct. 8, 2026 | Literacy Village: Family Literacy Night (6 PM)
• Nov. 3, 2026 | ESOL Lunch & Learn (12 PM)
• Nov. 19, 2026 | International Night (5:30-7:30 PM)
• Dec. 16, 2026 | Transition to High School Meeting (6 PM)
• Jan. 12, 2027 | Understanding Assessment (6 PM)
• Feb. 4, 2027 | Math Matters (6 PM)
• Mar. 10, 2027 | Title I Parent Input Meeting (9 AM & 6 PM)
• Spring 2027 | AVID Family Night (Date TBD)

Bottom line: Whether you want to support your child's academics, understand assessments, navigate technology, or prepare for high school, there's a workshop for you.

All parents and families are invited to join us online on Wednesday, September 2nd at 6:00pm via Teams. Mr. Seth Gamba, Canvas Champion will hold a parent training on how to use Canvas, Infinite Campus, AI and other pertinent technology related topics for our Title I: Technology evening. This session will include how to view grades, keep up with assignments, module setup, and how Canvas can help students plan using their calendars. Please plan on attending this critical session to ensure that families are able to access and understand Canvas.

Microsoft TEAMS LINK:

Click HERE for the Link or use https://tinyurl.com/TECH-MTG-EPMS-02SEP2026

To Dial in by phone: +1 470-705-1712,#74026825#

Join or renew your PTSA membership and be part of a team that's making our school stronger. You play a role in supporting educational programs, celebrating students, empowering teachers, and creating opportunities that help every child succeed.

Membership is just $10 per person. Upgrade with a donation level membership to enjoy perks like reserved performance seating, exclusive event invitations, and more!💙💛

Click here to sign up, renew, or donate today!

August 18th PTSA General Meeting - We invite all parents and guardians to join us in the Media Center for our first PTSA General Meeting on Tuesday, August 18, at 9 a.m., after “Coffee with the Admin.” This is a great opportunity to meet our Elkins Pointe administrators; connect with fellow parents and PTSA Board members; hear about school initiatives; and enjoy complimentary coffee and light snacks. Your input is valuable, and we look forward to seeing you there!

It's time to explore, connect, and have fun! Check out the current club offerings and sign-up opportunities below.

Talk with your child about the activities they'd like to try and encourage them to get involved. Whether they're interested in arts, leadership, culture, STEM, or just meeting new friends, there's something for everyone.

More clubs are coming soon, so stay tuned! 🌟

The Arcane Alliance Club will combine D&D and Magic: The Gathering Club. Learn fantasy role-playing, deck building, game strategy, card collecting, and more. Thanks to a generous donation of many Magic cards, no deck is needed to join! Beginners and experienced players are welcome. Come learn, play, and have fun with us!

• Club Chair: Mr. Meyer
• Meeting day: the 4th Tuesday of the month
• First “Introductory” Meeting will be Tuesday, August 25th
• Time: 4:30 pm Time: 4:30-5:30 PM
• Where: D108

Questions? Email, Mr. Meyer at meyerg@fultonschools.org

This club will promote strategic thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, reading comprehension, communication skills, and positive peer interactions through cooperative storytelling and structured gameplay.

Do you want to make a difference, meet new people, and have fun? Join the EPMS Interact Club! Interact gives students opportunities to serve our school and community through meaningful service projects, fundraisers, and outreach activities while building leadership and teamwork skills.

🌟 Serve. Lead. Connect. Make an Impact. Come to our first meeting and see how you can get involved!

• Sponsors: Ms. Cooper and Mrs. Mejia | Room E104 |
• Email Addresses: CooperGT@fultonschools.org and Mejia@fultonschools.org
• First Meeting: Monday, August 31st at 8 AM

Please complete this form if you're interested in joining. EPMS Interact Club Membership Intake

Are you a K-pop fan or curious about Korean culture? The K-Pop & Korean Culture Club will explore the exciting world of Korea through music, dance, language, games, and traditions! Whether you're a longtime fan or just getting started, everyone is welcome.

All club members must complete the registration form:

K-POP and Korean Culture CLUB registration – Fill out form

K-Pop Club Information:

• First Meeting: August 25
• Time: 4:20 p.m. to 5:20 p.m.
  
• Pick-Up: Students must be picked up by 5:25 p.m. in front of the building.
• Meetings will be on Tuesdays after school.
  

Questions for about the K-Pop & Korean Culture Club?

Contact: Sponsor: Maria Mejia at 📧 mejia@fultonschools.org

.No experience needed. Just bring your enthusiasm, curiosity, and love of learning! ✨🎵🇰🇷💜

Learn K-pop dances, discover new artists, explore Korean customs and holidays, practice reading and writing Hangul, and enjoy fun cultural activities with friends who share your interests

Love to read? Put your book knowledge to the test with Reading Bowl! Members read 10 exciting books and compete as a team in the district-wide Reading Bowl competition in January. It's a great way to discover new books, sharpen your recall skills, make friends, and have fun with fellow readers!

If you love reading and enjoy a challenge, come see what Reading Bowl is all about!

📅 Interest Meeting: September 10 at 8:00 AM in F113
📅 Club Meetings: Thursdays after school until 5:15 PM, beginning September 17

Questions? Please contact Reading Bowl Coach: Leighann Carter at 📧 carterl2@fultonschools.org

Explore the world through research and discovery! The Social Studies Fair lets students investigate history, geography, government, economics, and culture through creative research projects. Top entries can advance to local, regional, and state competitions. Interested? Join the information meeting and get started!

• 📅 September 3
• 🕗 8:00 AM
• 📍 Room D125
• Questions? Contact: Chair: Sally Stone, 📧 stones@fultonschools.org

Turn your curiosity into an award-worthy project! Research a topic you love, create an engaging display, and share your discoveries while building valuable critical thinking skills. 🌎🏆✨

Ready to Make Your Mark?✔️ Join Student Council and help create unforgettable school experiences! From planning events and spirit days to sharing student ideas and building school pride, Student Council members make a real difference. Don't miss your chance to lead, collaborate, and have fun while making our school the best it can be!

Your voice matters. Your ideas matter. Join Student Council! 💙💛

• The Interest meeting will be in Room E110 on Monday, August 31 @8:10 a.m.
• Meetings will be on the 2nd Monday of the month @ 8:10 a.m. in Room E110

Questions? Email: : Ms. Natalie Knight, KnightNR@fultonschools.org

Ready to showcase your tech talents? FCSTC invites all Fulton County students in grades 3-12 to create and submit an original technology project in one of the competition categories. Whether you're passionate about coding, digital design, multimedia, animation, or emerging technologies, this is your chance to shine!

Projects must be designed and created entirely by students and cannot be a whole-class assignment.

Bring your ideas to life, share your creativity, and compete with some of Fulton County's most innovative young minds! 💻🏆✨

FCSTC (Fulton County Student Technology Competition)
Chair: Sally Stone, 📧 stones@fultonschools.org
📅 Date: TBD

Let Us Know How You'd Like to Get Involved! Do you want to volunteer at Elkins Pointe? We have a number of new opportunities this year, and we’d love to see you at our school! Complete this quick form to let us know what you’re interested in.

Support Elkins Pointe: Donate at 2nd & Charles! The 2nd & Charles store at 10723 Alpharetta Highway in Roswell will be accepting donations made at checkout from Sunday, July 19, to Sunday, August 16, with all donations going to Elkins Pointe Middle School. Stop by 2nd & Charles and donate at checkout--encourage a lifelong love of books while supporting our school!

Binder Build Volunteers Needed - The AVID program needs volunteers on August 20 during Connections class times. Volunteers will be organizing and handing out materials and assisting in building AVID binders for students. If you are able to help, please sign up here. Thank you!

Arrival:

The staff lot will be blocked off during morning carpool. Students should all be dropped off in the carpool line at the front of the building.

Dismissal:

The Elkins Pointe staff lot and Hembree Springs staff lot will be blocked off during dismissal. All 6th grade families should pick up on the side of the school. 7th and 8th grade families will need to use the carpool lines at the front of the school.

In collaboration with Hembree Springs Elementary, we are working to ensure the safety of our students. Students walking through bus lanes and in and out of car traffic have presented multiple safety concerns. Hembree Springs has also reported parents driving through their parking lots at high speeds. As you know, safety is often inconvenient. However, safety is our number one priority. Adherence to the carpool procedures is required, and we are here for any questions or concerns that you may have.

The beginning of the year is THE TIME to order your YEARBOOK and get THE BEST price!

Click HERE to order your YEARBOOK for ONLY $45! The price will only go up, up, and UP!

Make their final middle school year even more memorable. Create a yearbook ad celebrating your 8th grader’s journey and accomplishments using this link: https://tinyurl.com/EPMS-8th-Grade-YB-Ads

To submit photos: Scan the QR code above or use link https://photos.jostens.com/97YQTY

• ✅ Upload your photos directly from your phone or computer.
• ✅ Include names and details when possible to help us identify students and events.

Open Gym: Open gym is coming to the mornings on select days starting next week! During the week of 8/17, we will host open gym starting at 8:25 to 8:40 AM on specific days of the week listed below. Students can participate if they would like to on the day of their specified grade level below.

There is no need to sign up. We are going to begin with basketball for the first few weeks. School-wide expectations should still be followed when open gym is occurring.

• Tuesdays – 7th Grade
• Thursdays – 6th Grade
• Fridays – 8th Grade

Please reach out to Coach Pickering with any questions, (pickeringb@fultonschools.org)

Rank One is an all-inclusive athlete management system. The program allows parents to import their student athletes and keep track of all the necessary forms and paperwork. Fulton County no longer uses DragonFly to house athletics physicals and information.

• Rank One Parent Tutorial
• Rank One Account Set-up
• Physical Forms
• Student Accident Insurance (English)
• Student Accident Insurance (Spanish)

Elkins Pointe Middle School Soccer Team: Please sign up for tryouts for the EPMS Soccer Team! Please see the link below to complete the interest form for 7th and 8th graders only. The soccer team is co-ed. After completing the form, upload the FCS Athletics-required documents to RANK ONE. Instructions for required forms are on the website or in Titan Talk. This MUST be completed as soon as possible.

Students will not be able to try out without the forms completed on Rank One. Tryouts will be on Tuesday, 8/18, and Wednesday, 8/19, from 4:30-5:30 PM. Parents, please pick up your students promptly.

Please let us know your child's interest in trying out by completing the short form: Soccer Interest Form – Fill out form

Any questions, please reach out to Coach Pickering, e-mail: pickeringb@fultonschools.org

EPMS Tennis: Please sign up for tryouts for the EPMS Tennis Team! Please see the link below to complete the interest form for 7th and 8th graders only. After completing the form, upload the FCS Athletics-required documents to RANK ONE. Instructions for required forms are on the website or in Titan Talk. This MUST be completed by Friday, August 28th.

Students will not be able to try out without the forms completed on Rank One. Tryouts will be on Wednesday, 9/2, and Thursday, 9/3, from 4:30-5:30 PM. Parents, please pick up your students promptly. No experience needed, all levels are welcome. Practices will be every Tuesday/Thursday until Final Match. Final match is currently scheduled for 11/7 at the South Fulton Tennis Center. Students will need their own transportation to the match.

Please reach out to Coach Porterfield (porterfieldl@fultonschools.org) or Coach Pickering (pickeringb@fultonschools.org) with any questions.

EPMS Tennis Interest Form: Tennis Interest Form – Fill out form

EPMS Volleyball (boys and girls teams)

Please sign up for tryouts for the EPMS Volleyball teams! We will have a girls and a boys team this year! Please see the link below to complete the interest form for 7th and 8th graders only. After completing the form, upload the FCS Athletics-required documents to RANK ONE. Instructions for required forms are on the website or in Titan Talk. Please complete the forms as soon as possible.

Students will not be able to try out without the forms completed on Rank One. Try outs are, 9/15 and 9/16 for girls, 9/17 for boys. There is an open afterschool volleyball gym on 9/14 with the coaches. All tryouts and the open gym that week are 4:30-5:30PM, with prompt pick up at 5:30.

Please reach out to Coach Sneed (sneedll@fultonschools.org) , Coach O’Connor (oconnort@fultonschools.org), or Coach Pickering (pickeringb@fultonschools.org) with any questions.

Girls Volleyball Interest Form: Girls Volleyball Interest Form – Fill out form

Boys Volleyball Interest Form: Boys Interest Form – Fill out form

B•Ballers Hoops Roswell is offering basketball programs for middle school players beginning August 10 right here at Elkins Pointe . Choose from Boys Skills Training or Open Runs (Tuesdays or Wednesdays) or Girls-Only Her Hoops School (Mondays at 7 PM).

Check details and to Register: https://bballershoopsroswell.com/upcoming-programs/