CMS Cougar Newsletter

A Letter from the Principal - Week of January 5, 2026

One Team. One Track. One Goal: Excellence for Every Student!

A Letter from the Principal

Dear CMS Families,

Happy New Year! As we begin this exciting new chapter, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we have accomplished together since August. I am incredibly grateful for our dedicated CMS staff, whose hard work, commitment, and care have been instrumental in supporting our students each and every day. Their efforts have helped create a learning environment where students feel supported, challenged, and encouraged to grow.

Our students have risen to that support - working hard, growing both academically and socially, and embracing opportunities that challenge them to think critically, lead confidently, and show Cougar pride. From engaging classroom learning and hands-on experiences to performances, athletics, and community involvement, it has been inspiring to watch our school community thrive.

As we move into the new year, we are energized by the possibilities ahead. This is a time to refocus on our goals, strengthen positive habits, and continue building momentum for success. Regular attendance, strong effort, and a commitment to kindness and responsibility will be key as we move forward together. With your continued support and partnership, we are confident that our students will reach new heights in the months ahead.

Thank you for being an essential part of our CMS family. We look forward to an outstanding year filled with growth, achievement, and continued celebration of our students.

Wishing you and your family a happy, healthy, and successful New Year!

With Cougar Pride,

Lori Mattson

Interim Principal

Covington Middle School

Mr. Bauguess’ Civics students recently took learning to the next level through an engaging and unforgettable mock trial experience. Our 8th graders stepped confidently into every role of the judicial process - from prosecutors and defense attorneys to witnesses, jurors, and court officials - bringing the courtroom to life right in their classroom. Adding to the excitement, Mr. Bauguess even donned judicial attire to preside as the judge, making the experience both authentic and memorable. This hands-on opportunity allowed students to deeply explore the workings of the judicial system, directly connecting their learning to Virginia Civics & Economics SOL CE.5, which emphasizes the role of courts and the importance of due process. It was a powerful example of learning in action and an experience our students will not soon forget.

PS - pictured at the top of the newsletter...THE VERDICT!!! 🔨

Great Job Cougars!

We are incredibly proud to shine a spotlight on Mrs. Crystal Wimmer and several of our outstanding 8th grade students: Jagger Rowland, Remi Anderson, and Faith Shull. VFW Post 1033 honored these individuals during their Christmas & Awards Banquet and Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremony on December 7, 2025. This meaningful recognition from the VFW highlights the dedication, citizenship, and patriotic spirit our students and staff demonstrate every day. Through community engagement, leadership, and a deep respect for service and sacrifice, Mrs. Wimmer and our students exemplify the very values we strive to instill at CMS. Their achievements reflect not only personal excellence but also the strong tradition of community partnership and pride that defines our school.

Friday, December 19th was truly a magical day at CMS! Our students enjoyed a full day of festive fun and meaningful activities, made possible by the incredible dedication and creativity of the CMS staff. From crafts, games, and movies to trivia, chess, reading, theater games, line dancing, and Christmas-themed competitions, there was something for everyone. Students created ornaments, friendship bracelets, paper snowflakes, Christmas cards, bead projects, and holiday art, while others enjoyed Bingo (with prizes!), Blookets, movie trivia, Grudgeball, and Christmas Olympics. A special highlight was our “Creating Cheer for Others” activities, where students made cards and decorated treat bags for residents of the Brian Center, spreading joy beyond our school walls.

The excitement continued with Santa visiting during lunch, dance parties throughout the day, festive inflatables greeting students as they arrived, and plenty of smiles all around. One of the most memorable moments came when students raised money for the Alleghany Humane Society and rewarded the top three staff fundraisers with a good-natured pie in the face! 🎉🥧 Our students truly experienced a special day filled with joy, connection, and Cougar pride.

A heartfelt thank you to ALL of the CMS staff - this unforgettable day would not have been possible without your hard work, teamwork, and commitment to making CMS such a special place for our students. ❤️🎄

Event Information

2nd quarter Civics Benchmark Testing - during Civics classes

When?

Wednesday, Jan 7, 2026, 08:30 AM

Where?

Covington Middle School, South Lexington Avenue, Covington, VA, USA

Contact Info

Covington Middle School

Principal: Ms. Lori Mattson

Asst. Principal: Mr. Marty Wood

Asst. Principal/Athletic Director: Mr. Zach Hamilton

Main Office: 540-965-1410

Attendance Email: Attendance Notes
Website: https://cms.ahps.k12.va.us/
Location: 606 South Lexington Avenue, Covington, VA 24426
Phone: 540-965-1410
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CovingtonMSCougars
Instagram: cmscougars2023

Covington Middle School Cougars Newsletter - 18th Edition Covington Middle School Cougars Newsletter - 18th Edition

A Letter from the Principal - Week of January 5, 2026

Mock Trial in Mr. Bauguess' Civics Classes - 11.18.2025 Mock Trial in Mr. Bauguess' Civics Classes - 11.18.2025

Proud Moment for CMS: Honored by VFW Post 1033 - 12.7.2025 Proud Moment for CMS: Honored by VFW Post 1033 - 12.7.2025

Powered by Passion: CMS Staff Create a Day to Remember Powered by Passion: CMS Staff Create a Day to Remember

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