Central Middle School

Labor Day weekend has now passed, and we’re officially off to a new school year! It’s time to hit the ground running, and we want you to stay connected with all that’s happening at Central Middle School. Here’s your September lowdown:

This week, we have started benchmark testing with our students to see where they currently stand academically in three of the four core subjects.

What are benchmark assessments?
These tests are not graded like regular classroom assignments. Instead, they give teachers valuable insight into each student’s strengths and areas for growth. By looking at the data, we can tailor instruction, provide additional support, and celebrate academic progress throughout the year.

Testing Schedule:

• September 3: English Language Arts – LinkIt!

• September 4: Math – iReady

• September 5: Science – LinkIt! and Wayfinder SEL

Your encouragement goes a long way—please remind your child to get a good night’s rest and come ready to do their CMS Best!

Next week, we will begin practicing our fire drills for the year. Safety is always our top priority. During these drills, students are expected to remain calm, quiet, and follow directions.

As the year goes on, we will also practice additional emergency drills (including safety and security). Whenever we do, we will alert families so you are aware and can help prepare your child at home.

Don’t forget—next week is Back-to-School Spirit Week at CMS! Students who participate may earn BONUS PBIS points for their class.

This also marks the kickoff of our Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program.

Why PBIS?
PBIS helps us create a positive and supportive school environment by teaching and reinforcing expected behaviors. Students can earn points for their class by showing responsibility, respect, and readiness every day. These points lead to grade-level incentives, trophies, and a little friendly school-wide team and grade-level competition!

Teachers are finalizing the September incentive, so encourage your student to get involved—it’s never too early to show what it means to be a proud CMS Red Knight!

👇🏾You can review our Expected Behaviors Posters below.👇🏾

Students may only bring clear or sealed water bottles to school. Please note this does not include sodas, Prime, energy drinks, juices, coffee, or iced tea.

To Be Perfectly Clear...

Non-water items brought into the building without the use of a lunchbox will be discarded.

Because students do not have access to lockers or backpacks during the day, we recommend refillable water bottles if your child needs more than one serving. Refill stations and fountains are located on every floor.

Thank you for helping us keep CMS healthy and focused!

At CMS, we believe student dress should reflect respect for oneself and our diverse school community. While we encourage individuality, there are certain non-negotiable expectations that must be followed to keep our school safe and focused on learning:

🚫 Not Permitted:

• Hoodies – hooded sweatshirts or hooded shirts may not be worn in school.

• Torn pants, pajama pants (unless part of a spirit week), sagging pants (pants must be worn at the waist).

• Shorts, skirts, jumpers, or dresses less than 3 inches from the knee (leggings must be worn underneath if shorter).

• Flip flops, slides, shoes with wheels.

• Revealing clothing, including crop tops, low-cut tops, strapless/halter/muscle shirts, or clothing that exposes undergarments, the stomach, or private areas.

• See-through or backless clothing.

• Clothing or accessories with obscene language, sexual content, drugs, alcohol, violence, gangs, or derogatory messages toward any group or individual.

• Head coverings (hoods, bandanas, sheisties, hats, caps) unless required for religious or medical purposes.

• Outerwear (backpacks, jackets, winter coats) inside the school day unless approved by an administrator.

👟 Clothing & shoes must be safe and appropriate for school—items deemed unsafe or disruptive by administrators will not be permitted.

✅ What’s Okay:

• Clothing that fits properly and covers the body appropriately.

• Refillable water bottles (clear/see-through).

• Head coverings for religious or medical reasons (with documentation).

👉 Please help us by checking your child’s attire before school each day. Our goal is to maintain a respectful, safe, and distraction-free learning environment for everyone!

CMS is a big school, and we’re fortunate to have a big support team for our students. Each grade has its own Assistant Principal, School Counselor, and School Social Worker. Please save these contacts for the 2025–26 school year:

6th Grade

7th Grade

8th Grade

Instructional Supervisors

Principal

You can reach Dr. Beaver via Class Dojo or school email. Please remember to schedule an appointment through the main office or by calling (484) 258-7365 so we can give you the time and attention you and your loved ones deserve.

Email: beaverg@readingsd.org
Website: https://www.readingsd.org/o/central
Location: 215 North 12th Street, Reading, PA, USA
Phone: 484-258-7365