BMS Patriot Press

Berkmar Middle School will provide students with quality, rigorous instruction that will develop critical and creative thinkers who will take ownership of their education in order to be successful lifelong learners.

The mission of Berkmar Middle School is to pursue excellence in academic knowledge, skills, and behavior for each student, resulting in measured improvement against local, national, and world-class standards.

Be Respectful, Be Responsible and Be Ready (The 3 Rs)

Greetings, Patriot Families,

As we move into the final weeks of the semester, we are grateful for your continued partnership in supporting our students. Our teachers are working diligently to provide targeted interventions and meaningful learning opportunities through Essential Safety Nets, helping every student finish strong and build confidence in their abilities.

Your conversations with your child about their progress, achievements, and goals play a powerful role in their growth. Together, we can ensure every student has the support and encouragement they need to succeed.

As always, we appreciate your support. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher, counselor, or administrator.

With Patriot Pride,

Felecia C. Jones
Principal

Subject: Important Safety Update: Evolv Weapons Detection System Coming Soon

Dear Berkmar Middle School Families,

As part of Gwinnett County Public Schools’ (GCPS) continued commitment to student and staff safety, we are preparing to implement the Evolv weapons detection system at Berkmar Middle School starting on Tuesday, December 2.

This system will be used during morning arrival at designated entry points. Evolv is a state-of-the-art, touchless screening technology designed to detect potential threats while allowing students and visitors to move quickly and safely into the building.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Entry Points: Look for clearly marked entrances with Evolv systems.

2. No Need to Unpack: Phones, keys, and wallets can stay in your bookbags, pockets, and purses.

3. Secondary Screening: If an alert is triggered, a quick secondary screening may be required.

4. Arrive Early: Please arrive early to avoid delays.

In addition to the Evolv system, our school will be staffed with School Safety Officers (SSOs). SSOs are security personnel whose primary responsibility will be to operate the Evolv system during the school day, after morning arrival. Their presence ensures the system is used effectively throughout the day while allowing school staff to remain focused on teaching and learning, and our School Resource Officers (SROs) to continue to oversee the overall safety and security of the campus.

Families may already be familiar with the Evolv system, as it was successfully used at GCPS football and basketball games last year. We appreciate your cooperation in helping ensure a smooth transition as we expand its use to daily school operations.

The implementation of the Evolv weapons detection system is part of a broader, multi-layered safety strategy that includes:

· Enhanced staff training in emergency response and threat detection.

· Upgraded surveillance and security monitoring systems.

· Ongoing collaboration with local law agencies.

We appreciate your support as we work together to maintain a safe and welcoming school environment.

Sincerely,

Felecia C. Jones

Saturday, November 15

• Basketball - BMS vs Five Forks MS @ Brookwood HS (9:00am)

Tuesday, November 18

• ML Family Night 5:30-7:00

• Library Tour - Lilburn Branch 10:30AM
• BMS Spirit Night @ Chick-Fil-A 5:00 pm - 7:00PM
• Winter Band Concert - 6pm

• Thanksgiving Break

Please take a moment to review the school year calendar included here. We kindly encourage you to schedule doctor’s appointments and family vacations during student holidays whenever possible, so your child can fully benefit from their learning experience. Thank you for your thoughtful planning and support—it truly makes a difference!

The Gwinnett County Public Schools Student & Family Handbook includes important policies and expectations for students, including behavior guidelines, technology use, attendance, and more.

🔗 Click here to read the 2025–26 GCPS Handbook

This Veterans Day gave us the opportunity to celebrate the commitment of our BMS Veterans, Darius Graves, Suad Vejzagic, and Joseph Cooke, for their dedication and service to our nation. We will forever remember the sacrifice of all who have served to ensure our freedom.

In recognition of Veterans Day, the Berkmar Middle School Student Council led a meaningful initiative to honor the brave men and women who have served our country.

Each homeroom participated by creating heartfelt “Thank You” cards expressing gratitude and appreciation for our veterans. The cards were delivered to the Lawrenceville Vet Center to support their Veterans Day events.

Students designed and decorated their cards with care, adding personal messages that reflected their respect for those who have dedicated their lives to protecting our nation’s freedom.

Families who speak a language other than English are invited to join us for an important informational evening on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 starting at 5:30PM in Berkmar Middle School Café

Become familiar with:

✅ What it means to be an ESOL/Multilingual Learner in GCPS

✅ How students are supported through the ML Program

✅ Understanding ACCESS for ELLs testing and reclassification

✅ Ways parents can track progress through the GCPS Parent Portal

✅ How to communicate with your child’s teachers and the multilingual team

✨Spanish interpretation will be available. If you need another language, please contact Ms. Pilar Silva at pilar.silva@gcpsk12.org by Friday, November 13.

Taking the opportunity to engage with learning during Wednesday Help Day is an excellent time to build understanding of content. Kudos to our staff and students for using this meaningful time to continue learning.

• Do you have access to Parent Square?
• Do you have access to the ParentVue?
• Do you have a MyPaymentsPlus account?
• Have you applied for Free or Reduced Lunch?
• Do you know when and where your child can go to get additional instructional support?
• Do you know where you can check out materials/resources to use at home with your student?
• Do you know how to become a volunteer in our school?

If you answered NO to any of these questions, please make an Appointment with Ms. Pilar Silva, our Parent Instructional Coordinator, in the BMS Family Center

You can also reach her by email: pilar.silva@gcpsk12.org or by phone 770-638-2317.

This month is all about celebrating the partnership between home and school — and the amazing ways families can learn, grow, and connect together! 💙

Check out our Family Engagement Calendars for both Elementary and Middle/High School families. Each day includes fun, simple, and meaningful activities that bring families closer, from reading together 📚 and enjoying game nights 🎲 to showing kindness 💕 and having family conversations that strengthen connection and confidence.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Whether it’s helping your child explore new goals, sharing family traditions, or volunteering together, every moment counts.

🌟Let’s make November a month to strengthen our bonds and celebrate the power of family engagement! 🌟

The Plan / The Purpose is now available for you to view anytime on our BMS Website under the For Parents Tab → Title I → Promise/Plans
This document is an important part of how we partner with families to support our students’ academic success and ensure that we are working together as a school community.

✨ The Plan / The Purpose explains:

• How Berkmar Middle School will use Title I funds to support student achievement.
• How families, students, and staff can work together to strengthen learning.
• Opportunities for parents to be involved and provide feedback throughout the year.

If you would like a hard copy, please stop by the BMS Family Center or contact Ms. Silva:
📞 770-638-2317
📧 pilar.silva@gcpsk12.org

We encourage every family to review this resource so you can stay informed and engaged in your child’s education.
Together, we are Ready, Respectful, and Responsible: Patriot Pride! 💙❤️🤍

I hope you can find time to visit our local public library- Lilburn Branch!
There’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out this month’s program filled with exciting activities, workshops, and family events happening throughout November.

✨ Don’t miss out on all the fun, read, create, and connect with your community!

Families are invited to join us for a special visit to the Gwinnett Public Library – Lilburn Branch!
Come and learn all about the free resources, programs, and services available for all your family! 💙

🗓️ Wednesday, November 19th
⏰ 10:30–11:30 a.m.

📍 4817 Church Street, Lilburn, GA 30047

If you don’t know how to get there, please meet Ms. Silva at Berkmar Middle School by 10:15 a.m. so you can follow her to the library. 🚗📖

Don’t miss this great opportunity to connect, explore, and discover everything your local library has to offer!

Join Mrs. Jones & Ms. Silva for a fun evening at Chick-fil-A Spirit Night and help support Berkmar Middle School! Stop by to say hello! Ms. Silva will be there to help you with ParentVUE, ParentSquare, MyPaymentPlus, or just to chit-chat with you and Principal Mrs. Jones while enjoying a delicious meal! 🍗🥤

Last month we had over 20 orders placed for Berkmar Middle School ! I know we can beat that record!

Our next Chit Chat at Chick-Fil-A will be Wednesday, November 19, 2025 from 5:00–7:00 PM at 4801 Lawrenceville Hwy NW, Lilburn, GA 30047

💬 Don’t forget to mention “Berkmar Middle School” when placing your order.
📱 Ordering on the app? Use code BMS25 and 10% goes back to our school!

See you There!

Start your holiday season with the City of Lilburn’s annual Holiday Parade, a magical hometown tradition that brings holiday cheer to the streets of Old Town. 🎄

This year, Berkmar Middle School staff will be walking in the parade, and we encourage all of our Berkmar families to come out, support us, and cheer for your Berkmar Middle School family as we walk by with pride representing our school! ❤️💙

The event takes place each year on the first Saturday in December and features an exciting lineup of marching bands, festive floats, dancers, school groups, and local nonprofits all decked out in their holiday best. Keep your eyes open for special appearances from beloved Christmas characters like Santa, the Grinch, and some mischievous elves.

Claim your curbside spot, grab a warm drink, and watch the sights and sounds of the season roll by!

Kroger offers a Community Rewards program that will allow BMS to benefit from a portion of your purchases. See the flier below and consider adding Berkmar Middle School as your Kroger Community Rewards recipient.

At Berkmar Middle School, we care deeply about the health, wellness, and stability of our families. We want to make sure you have access to helpful community resources designed to support you in every season of life. From food assistance programs and medical services to mental health support, financial resources, and community events, there are many options available for you and your family.

We encourage you to explore these resources and reach out if you ever need guidance or support. Our BMS Family’s health is important to us — and we’re here to help.

Please take a moment to review the information and share it with anyone who may benefit.
Together, we continue building a stronger, healthier, and more connected Patriot community. 💙🤍❤️

Disclaimer:
GCPS does not endorse or recommend any of the above agencies, as this list is for informational use only. Any fees incurred are the responsibility of the parent and/or student. This is not a complete list of medical providers and/or resources in Gwinnett and the Metro Atlanta area.

Many families in our community are facing hunger. Food insecurity affects attendance, focus, and overall well-being. In Georgia, one in seven children experiences food insecurity, which can make it hard to thrive at school or work.

If you are struggling, you are not alone. Asking for help does not make you a bad parent or a bad person. Even families who seem well-off can face challenges. Reaching out for support shows strength and care for your family. Our community is here to help

Families can receive free fruits, vegetables, and shelf-stable foods — no ID required.

🕒 Begins at 3:00 PM
✅ Free, contactless, drive-thru style
📦 While supplies last – first come, first served

📍 Upcoming Locations & Dates:

• Best Friend Park (Norcross) – October 28

• Rhodes Jordan Park (Lawrenceville) – October 14

• Bryson Park (Lilburn) – August 26, November 18

• Rock Springs Park (Lawrenceville) – December 9

• Lenora Park (Snellville) – November 4

🔗 More food resources here
🔗 Another resource recently shared with us

If you or someone you know is going through a tough time, please know that you’re not alone. There are places in our community offering free food for families in need, and the Food Finder link can help you find them easily. 🥫🍎

👉 Visit: https://foodfinder.us/

Please share this resource with your friends, neighbors, church members, or anyone who might benefit.
Sometimes, a simple act of sharing can make a huge difference in someone’s life. 💕

Let’s continue to take care of one another — with kindness, compassion, and love.
That’s what community is all about. 💙

Mercy Seed Ministry

4000 Five Forks Trickum Rd, Lilburn

Saturday 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Lilburn Co-Op

5329 Five Forks Trickum Rd SW, Lilburn

https://lilburnco-op.org/

Lawrenceville Co-Op

52 Gwinnett Dr Suite C, Lawrenceville

https://lawrencevilleco-op.org/

The Quinn House

555 Hurricane Shoals Rd NW, Lawrenceville

https://thequinnhouse.com/

SatisFeed at North Metro Baptist Church

1026 Old Peachtree Rd NE, Lawrenceville

https://www.satisfeed.org/get-food

There are times when families may need a little extra help putting food on the table and that’s okay.
Gwinnett County Community Services offers a wonderful resource that connects families with local food pantries, meal programs, and community organizations providing support across the county. 🌽🍞 Please share the link below with your friends, neighbors, and anyone in your community who could benefit. 🤝 Together, we can make sure no one has to face hunger alone. 💙

https://www.gwinnettcounty.com/departments/communityservices/foodsecurityresources

Donate canned goods or volunteer at a pantry. Share these resources with families or friends. When families have access to food, children and adults can attend, learn, and succeed.

Every meal matters. Everyday matters. Every person matters.

Want to keep up with all the exciting things happening at BMS? From school events and celebrations to important announcements, we’ve got you covered!

👉 Follow us on social media and be part of our Patriot community:

• Instagram: @berkmarms127

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BerkmarMS

Let’s celebrate our students, families, and staff together because at BMS, Patriots LEAD the way to excellence! 💙❤️

#BMSPatriots #WeAreBerkmar #PatriotsLEAD

Each BMS student will receive a GCPS assigned chromebook for use in class and at home to support their instructional needs. It is the family’s responsibility to monitor the use of the device to ensure that the device is returned in the condition in which it was received.

GCPS has created a 1:1 Parent Support Site to provide further information on chromebook use as well as parent and student responsibilities.

GCPS will assess fines for lost and/or damaged chromebooks and chargers. Please note that incidents of damage or loss do not reset each school year. See the district fine chart below.

Resources:

Student 1:1 Support Site

Parent 1:1 Support Site

Parent and student rights and responsibilities

Please note that incidents of damage or loss do not reset each school year.
Fees are effective July 1, 2024.

Is your child planning on playing volleyball, basketball, or soccer or become a Cheerleader this year? If so, you need to get them registered with Rank One.

Make sure to get this done soon! If you need help accessing Rankone or uploading your documents, please reach out to Ms. Silva pilar.silva@gcpsk12.org so she can assist.

We’re excited to invite all interested students to join our Berkmar Middle School Soccer Tryouts!

🗓️ Boys: December 1–5
🗓️ Girls: December 8–12

✅ To try out, students must:

• Be passing 5 out of 6 classes (Math & Language Arts must be passing).

• Have their physical, health insurance, and all paperwork uploaded to RankOne.com before tryouts.

⚠️ No paperwork = No tryouts!

📞 Questions or need help?
Contact Mrs. Silva at pilar.silva@gcpsk12.org or 770-638-2317

Let’s go Patriots! 💙❤️

BMS Families: We are getting ready for our Lady Patriots Soccer Season! 💙❤️

🏃‍♀️ Speed & Agility Days: November 12 & 19 | 4:30–6 PM

⚽️ Tryouts: December 8 & 10 | 4:30–6 PM

📋 Important:

All physicals MUST be uploaded to RANKONE.com before participating in Speed & Agility Days and before soccer tryouts. Students will not be allowed to participate without a valid physical on file.

Once the girls have been selected for the team, team dues of $110 will be required.

✅ Conditions to Try Out:

1. Must be passing 5 out of 6 classes (Must be passing both Math & Language Arts )
2. Must have a physical uploaded to RankOne.com before participating
3. No more than 5 unexcused absences
4. Bring cleats, shin guards, and goalie gloves (if needed)

📧 Coaches:

Coach Calderon — anahi.calderon@gcpsk12.org

Coach Guzman — victoria.de-gusmao@gcpsk12.org

💬 Need help uploading documents onto RankOne?

Contact Ms. Pilar Silva at pilar.silva@gcpsk12.org

Let’s cheer on our girls as they show their Patriot Pride on and off the field! 💪⚽️

Be a part of bringing the Berkmar community together by participating in the Patriot 5K hosted by the BHS Soccer Program.

One of the integral parts of creating a harmonious and distraction-free learning space is our "Power Down" electronic device (cell phones, airpods, headphones, etc.) policy. We understand the importance of technology and staying connected in our modern world. However, during school hours, the focus should be on learning, collaborating, and being present.

Should there be an emergency or an urgent concern to communicate with your child, please reach out to the school's main office. We will ensure your child receives the message promptly.

Want to stay connected with BMS? Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @BerkmarMS127. Follow us on Facebook Berkmar Middle. Updated communication and parent newsletters may be found on these platforms. Additionally, our school website is another great resource for learning more about our school.

Website: https://www.gcpsk12.org/site/default.aspx?PageID=2086
Location: 4355 Lawrenceville Highway, Lilburn, GA, USA
Phone: 770-638-2300