Horizon Middle School

October 5th- Adajios parent meeting at 5:30 in Library

October 10th - Choir at BHS 9-4

October 13th - Wrestling parent meeting at 6:00 in the Cafetorium.

October 15th - Fall Choir Concert

• 6th Grade at 6 PM
• 7th Grade at 7 PM
• 8th Grade at 8 PM

October 19th and 20th - Parent teacher conferences

October 20th - Picture Retakes

October 21st - End of First Quarter

October 22nd and 23rd - Admin Convention Days - No School

October 29th and 30th - 6th grade musical starts at 7 PM in the cafetorium.

Coming in November! We’re giving families a chance to get to know the teachers behind the classroom. Look for fun facts, favorite things, and more in next month’s newsletter!

Monday=Jersey Day “Team up against drugs and tobacco”
Tuesday=Twin Day “Friends don’t let friends do drugs”
Wednesday= Adam Sandler Day “Be a star” Wear baggy clothing
Thursday=Teacher dress like Student Swap “Don’t get mixed up with drugs”
Friday=Neon Day “We are too bright for drugs”

Bismarck Public Schools will have a $116.5 million bond proposal on the ballot Tuesday, November 3, 2026. The proposal addresses facility needs across 23 BPS sites and focuses on four key areas:

• Keep Students Safe – including ADA updates and secure entrances
• Modernize Schools – including upgraded learning spaces, more efficient buildings, and reliable infrastructure
• Meet Student Needs – including eliminating temporary classrooms and creating adequate space for student support
• Preserve Our Investment – addressing aging building systems and other facility needs

What Would the Bond Mean for Horizon Middle School?

Horizon Middle School opened in 2001 as a replacement for Hughes Middle School. The proposed bond includes approximately $2.4 million in improvements at Horizon, including:

• ⚡ Energy management system
• 🏠 Roof replacement
• 🔥 Boiler replacement

The proposal also includes improvements at Century High School, including a new auditorium, expanded gym and weight room, and a new ventilation system. Districtwide improvements would include a new central kitchen, improved meal offerings, increased equity in learning spaces between schools, and additional spaces for community use.

Estimated Tax Impact: The district estimates an impact of approximately $14.18 per month on a $400,000 home, based on current taxable valuation and financing estimates.

Election Day: Tuesday, November 3, 2026

For additional information about the proposal, including projects planned throughout Bismarck Public Schools, families can visit the BPS bond information page:
Bismarck Public Schools – 2026 Bond Information

E-bikes and e-scooters have become an increasingly common way for students to travel to and from school. We recognize the convenience and independence these devices can provide for students, and we want to make sure they are being used safely and responsibly.

The City of Bismarck has recently updated requirements related to e-bike use. We encourage families whose students ride e-bikes or e-scooters to familiarize themselves with local requirements and talk with their students about safe riding practices. The attached information from the Bismarck Police Department provides additional guidance regarding e-bike classifications, age requirements, helmets, speed limits, and other safety considerations.

To help ensure the safety of riders, pedestrians, and vehicles during busy arrival and dismissal times, BPS is asking students to dismount and walk e-bikes, e-scooters and bicycles while traveling through school bus loading zones, parent drop-off/pick-up areas and other high-traffic pedestrian areas such as crosswalks. Students may resume riding once they are outside these areas and should walk their transportation to the designated bike rack upon arrival.

Please see the attached map for walk zones at our school. Thank you for helping us keep students, staff, and families safe as they arrive at and leave our schools each day.

Caulfield Studios will be back for Retake Day photos on Tuesday, October 20.

If you purchased photos the original day and would like a Retake, please return the original package with a $5 Retake Fee when you have your new photo taken. We will reprint your package with the new photo. You MUST return your original photos and pay the $5 Retake Fee in order for your package to be reprinted.

If you took a photo the original day but didn’t purchase anything, there is a $5 Retake Fee to take a new photo unless you are ordering a package.

If this is your first time taking a photo, there is no retake fee.

If you would like to prepay online for a photo that is being taken on Tuesday, October 20, you can do so here: www.ospgo.com/105188

You MUST take a Retake Day photo to use this payment site. Any original day photos must be ordered directly from the printing lab using the Reorder Link and Password provided with their sample photo from the original day.

Pictures will be taken by Caulfield Studios. If you have questions regarding picture orders, you may contact Caulfield Studios at 701-746-0078.

Purchase your yearbook early for $18.00 until April 25, 2027.

Use MyPayments Plus to purchase your yearbook.

As we continue to ensure a safe, focused, and respectful learning environment for all students, we want to remind you of a key section from our School Board Policy regarding personal electronic communication devices based on the new state law.

Per Section C of the policy:

A personal electronic communication device means a portable electronic device capable of communication by voice, text, or other data with one or more other parties or devices, or capable of connection to a smartphone, the internet, or a wireless network.

This includes (but is not limited to):
• Smartphones and cell phones
• Bluetooth-enabled devices
• Tablets and smartwatches (wearables)
• Gaming devices

We appreciate your partnership in helping students use technology responsibly and respectfully at school. If you have questions

In regards to the updated cell phone policy Horizon Middle School will follow these consequences:

First violation - The device is confiscated and turned into the attendance office. Phone will be returned to the student at the end of day after re-teach/ conversation with administrator.

Second violation - The device is confiscated and turned into the attendance office.

Required in-person parent meeting with AP or designee prior to returning device to parent

at the end of the school day. Device will not be returned until a parent meeting has been

completed. Loss of test exemption.

Third violation - The device is confiscated and turned into the attendance office. Required

in-person parent meeting with AP or designee prior to returning device to parent at the end of the school day. Device will not be returned until a parent meeting has been completed. Student will be required to turn the device into the office daily for 10 school days.

Fourth violation - The device is confiscated and turned into the attendance office. Required in-person parent meeting with AP or designee prior to returning device to parent at the end of the school day. Device will not be returned until a parent meeting has been completed. Student is required to turn device into office for remainder of school year.

*Detention and/or suspension could be added to cell phone/device consequences.

https://www.bismarckschools.org/families/cell-phones

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the new cell phone policy changes, please reach out to Horizon Middle School Office at 701-323-4550, to schedule a time to meet with our administration.

Supporting Parents. Supporting Students.

Counseling Connection is a space for parents and caregivers to learn more about the social, emotional, and developmental needs of middle school students. Each month the HMS counseling team will share helpful information, practical strategies, and resources focused on mental health, wellness, development, relationships, coping skills, and ways to support your middle schooler’s overall well-being through the newsletter.

Our goal is to help families feel informed, connected, and better equipped to support their students as they navigate the unique challenges and opportunities of middle school.

HMS Counselors - Horizon Middle School

We would like to share some important updates regarding the Giving Tree this year:

• Each Horizon student who is signed up by their parent/guardian will receive two $25 gift cards.

• Please note: Gift cards will not be provided for adults or students who are not a Horizon student this year.

We appreciate your understanding as we make these adjustments. Thank you for your continued support in helping us provide for our students during this season. Be on the lookout for more information regarding the Holiday Giving Tree coming soon.

Open Your Heart is an annual holiday campaign that provides families in need with Christmas food baskets and a Target clothing stipend. If your family would like to apply to receive this assistance, please contact your grade level Horizon social worker or access the application using the link below:

Open Your Heart Application

Horizon Social Workers:

• Tara Renner: 6th Grade & 8th Grade (Dream)
• Jen Duletski: 7th Grade & 8th Grade (Phoenix)

Application Instructions & Requirements:

• Applicants must be received by October 23rd
• Submitted applications will be evaluated by a selection committee

We are excited to kick off another great school year! To help keep our students energized and ready to learn, we are asking for snack donations. Individually packaged, nut-free snacks are especially appreciated and will be shared with classrooms and students as needed throughout the day.

Some ideas include:

• Granola bars
• Goldfish or crackers
• Pretzels
• Fruit snacks
• Applesauce pouches

If you’d like to donate, please drop items off in the school office during school hours. Your support makes a big difference and helps us ensure every student is fueled for success.

Thank you for your generosity and continued partnership!

💚🐾 Go Huskies!

Dates - Thursday, Oct. 29th & Friday, Oct. 30th

Time - 7:00 pm. Doors open to the public at 6:30 pm

Location - Horizon Cafetorium

Admission is free-will donation

Concessions will be sold

We are excited to invite families to Horizon’s upcoming Choir Concerts on Thursday, October 15th, in the Horizon Cafetorium.

• 6th Grade Choir: 6:00 p.m.
• 7th Grade Choir: 7:00 p.m.
• 8th Grade Choir: 8:00 p.m.

We look forward to celebrating our students and their hard work!

What we do:

• Work as a team with the HMS staff and enhance student experiences
• Organize and manage fundraising opportunities (check out the fundraiser link for info)
• Provide food for Staff Appreciation Snack Days
• Provide staff meals during parent/teacher conferences
• Help fulfill staff wish lists from funds raised which include new technology, needs within the fine arts, Phy Ed equipment, and many other items
• Fund the purchase of PBIS prizes (rewards for students to promote and reward good behavior)
• Organize and assist in funding the 8th grade farewell

Share your ideas or learn more at our monthly meetings. ALL Horizon parents/guardians are welcome and encouraged to attend!

The meetings will be the second Tuesday of every month at 12:00 at HMS during the school year.
You can also attend the meetings via Google Meet here. If you have any questions, please contact the President Brittani Reim.

horizonpac678@gmail.com

Next months meeting is November 10, 2026.

Exciting News: The Horizon PAC Raffle is Here!

This year, the Horizon Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) is kicking off our biggest fundraiser of the year - a calendar raffle - and we need YOUR help to make it a huge success! All funds raised will go directly toward providing much-needed tools, materials, and resources for our students, teachers, and the entire school community. We’re holding the raffle at the start of the school year, so every dollar raised will make an immediate impact!

Here’s How It Works: Tickets are only $10 each and every student will bring home four to sell. We ask that each student sells at least the tickets they’re sent home with, but if you’re up for the challenge of selling more, we’ve got extra tickets available at the office, first-come, first-served. But hurry, we’ve only printed 5,000 tickets this year! All tickets (sold and unsold) should be returned to the office by Thursday, October 29.

Prefer to Donate Instead? No problem! If your family would rather make a direct contribution, you can easily donate through My Payments Plus by selecting HMS - PAC Donation.

Cash Prizes & Winners: We’re giving away more than $3,000 in cash prizes! Drawings will take place on school days in November, and lucky winners will be announced on the Horizon Middle School Facebook page. Cash prizes will be mailed to the winners in the form of a check from the Horizon PAC.

Student Prizes & Competitions: It’s not only about selling - it’s about WINNING!

● Team Prize: The two teams that sell the most tickets will each earn funds toward a team party!

● The top ticket seller will receive a gift card prize valued at $100, and the next top 9 sellers will receive gift card prizes valued at $50 each.

● Individual Prize Drawings: Every student who sells at least 4 tickets earns an entry into the student prize drawing. Sell more than four? Each extra ticket sold gets you an additional entry! Student prizes will be drawn on November 2.

We can’t wait to see everyone get involved and make this year’s raffle a smashing success!

Questions? Reach out to us at HorizonPAC678@gmail.com.

Good luck and THANK YOU for supporting the Horizon PAC! Let's make this year our best one yet!

Art Club is starting Wednesday, October 14! Students will meet Wednesdays from 3:40–4:30 p.m. in Ms. Dornfeld’s Room 132. Art Club meets October, November, and January–April.

Advisors are Leigh Dornfeld and Ashley Eide.

Players of all experience levels are welcome! Whether you are an experienced chess player or have never played before, we would love to have you join us. We will teach you how to play if you don’t already know how!

Meeting Dates: Fridays, beginning October 2
Time: 8:00–8:30 a.m.
Location: Room 221 – Synergy Team

Chess Club Advisor:
Laura Devine

Horizon Congress/Debate/Speech

BPS 2026-27 DEBATE

Debate is middle/high school competition that is held regionally, and at a state and national level. 6th graders can participate in the practices but cannot compete until in 7th grade. Starting in 9th grade, students could compete for the national tournament. Practices have 2 times each week at Horizon Middle School and 2 practices weekly at Century High School starting October 1st until early February. The season has two different topics (one for November/December and another for January/February).

There are two categories of debate. Public Forum debate is a two-person team debate while Lincoln Douglas debate is an individual activity. You will learn how to research, evaluate sources, structure arguments, improve speaking skills and to think on your feet. It is a great activity for anyone who wants to improve their skills in speaking, writing and research that are critical to success in school now, high school, college and jobs-no matter what area of work you want to do.

Practices: It is good to attend twice a week until cases are written; however, it is not required. Students can start at any time. Students can start with either topic. And students do not have to compete at every tournament. The more tournaments tend to provide the best feedback and improvement in skill, but even one tournament can help a student learn.

November
14 - Fargo North Debate
21 - TBD
December
5 – Grand Forks Crosstown Debate - GF Red River
12 – Fargo South HS
19 – NSDA Shanley (high school students only)
January
19 - Fargo Davies Debate - Fargo Davies
16 – Bismarck Century
23 - Horace
30 – NDHSAA competition to qualify for State – Fargo Davies
February
6–NDHSAA State Debate -Davies High School - Fargo

Coach Jannelle Combs (jannelle_combs@bismarckschools.org) and cell is (701) 306-0039

Are you interested in exploring different cultures, celebrating diversity, making new friends, and helping make our school community even more inclusive? Then come join the Diversity Club!

In Diversity Club, students will explore fascinating cultures from around the world through fun activities, presentations from community members, and FOOD! We’ll host monthly events where students can experience vibrant music, cultural traditions, beautiful art and clothing, and delicious foods from different countries and cultures.

If you are interested, please join us!

Meeting Information:
Thursdays 3:30–4:30 PM Occasional evening events in room Room 102
Starts Thursday, September 24, 2026

Advisors: Mrs. Zaun and Mrs. Curzio

Horizon Middle School offers two musical productions each school year:

• 6th Grade Fall Musical – September–October
• Combined 7th & 8th Grade Spring Musical – December–March/Early April

Advisors; Connie Stordalen & Erik Stordalen in the Choir Room

Meeting Days & Times

During production seasons, rehearsals are generally held Monday–Friday from 3:45–5:00 p.m. Rehearsal days and times may vary depending on the production schedule.

When Does Drama Start?

The start of the program depends on the student's grade level:

6th Grade: The fall musical begins in September, with rehearsals taking place throughout September and October.

7th & 8th Grade: The spring musical process begins in December with auditions. Rehearsals begin in January, with the production typically taking place in March or early April.

Students should listen for school announcements for information about auditions, registration, and starting dates.

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is a safe and welcoming space for students to grow in their faith, build friendships, and connect with other students before school.

FCA is led by Mr. Humann, Mr. Boles, and Mrs. Young, who work together to provide students with opportunities for fellowship, faith, and encouragement throughout the school year.

Meeting Information:
📅 Fridays
⏰ 8:00 AM
📍 Mr. Kadrmas’ Room - T3

FCA meetings have already begun and will continue through the end of the school year. Students are welcome to join us!

FFA- FFA stands for Future Farmers of America. But FFA is not just for students who want to be farmers; FFA also welcomes members who aspire to careers as teachers, doctors, scientists, business owners and more. Students who are enrolled in Exploring Agriculture can attend Meetings. We meet the second Tuesday of every month at 4:15pm.

Advisor: Mrs. Schmoker and Mr. MacDonald

To get involved see Mrs. Sorch in room 145

This is what is on the Clubs and Committee in the VHB;

2nd Tuesday of every month, 4:15pm at the Silver Ranch Career Academy (5402 Noble Drive) Room 103

The Horizon Husky Singers is an auditioned show choir for 7th and 8th grade singers. Students must be enrolled in choir in order to audition for Husky Singers, as the group is an extension of the learning and skills developed in the choir classroom.

Students are required to go through an audition process, which includes a vocal try-out. Auditions will be held during the last week of September, and the first Show Choir rehearsal will be October 1.

Rehearsals are held from 7:45–8:30 AM on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.

Performances are based on availability and will be scheduled in advance.

Mrs. Connie Stordalen is the director and is responsible for the selection of the group.
If you have questions, please contact Connie Stordalen via email or 701-323-4550 ext. 5055.

Horizon Musical website

Jazz Band will begin October 1 and run through May. Rehearsals will be held from 7:45–8:30 a.m. on Mondays for sectionals and Tuesdays and Thursdays for full band.

Students with at least one year of experience on their instrument are welcome to audition. 7th and 8th grade students will receive priority over 6th grade students.

The Horizon Jazz Band is an auditioned ensemble featuring saxophones, trumpets, trombones, piano, guitar, bass guitar, vibes, and drums. Auditions will take place at the end of September.

There is a $40 Jazz Band fee, which helps cover music, festivals, and equipment.

The Jazz Band performs at the University of Mary Jazz Festival and several concerts throughout the school year.

Please see Mrs. Halverson for more information.

This club is for anyone interested in researching, interviewing, and/or writing articles and designing our online school newspaper, On the Horizon. You will also have the opportunity to check out cameras and take pictures during school and at school events for the yearbook as well as create posters to advertise for the yearbook and pass them out in the spring.

Advisor: Mrs. Matties

We will meet every Monday starting mid-September-mid April after school in Room 262 in the Dream Team area from 3:30-4:20

More information will be in the morning announcements and on the monitors located around the school..

https://sites.google.com/bismarckschools.org/onthehorizon64/home

What is MathCounts? MathCounts is a national program aimed at helping students strengthen their critical thinking and mathematical abilities through engaging, team-based activities and competitions. The program includes both individual and collaborative challenges, encouraging students to tackle complex math problems while developing teamwork skills. It culminates in exciting competitions at various levels, from school-wide to national.

First Meeting: October 14th

Where: Mr. Geck’s Room - Team Odyssey
When: Wednesdays After School (Twice a month)
Advisor: Ms. Annmarie DeCoteau

Science Olympiad is a competition club that allows students to explore different sciences and compete at regional, state and potentially national levels to showcase the knowledge that they have learned.

Science Olympiad is open to all students. We meet monthly (sometimes weekly as we get closer to competition dates) to check in on building and study projects from 3:45 to 5:00. A large portion of the projects is completed outside of school hours due to the nature of the projects. Science advisor classrooms will be open during lunch to allow students to work on their projects.

Advisors:

8th Ms. Rolfe- Dream, room 265

7th Mrs. Fisher- Odyssey, room 192

Our mission is to spread Hope, Help, and Strength into every corner of our school community. We help students and staff turn to their strengths and their supports that are all around. We are Connectors to Help and Strength. We recognize that our voice has great power and we use it to BREAK the SILENCE when someone is struggling and help them to make connections.

Advisors: Mrs. Weikum located in the Journey team, room 243 and Mrs. Turner located in the Synergy team, room 224.

Sources of Strength meetings are Mondays from 3:30-4:30

Spelling Bee Club helps students build vocabulary, improve spelling skills, and prepare for spelling competitions in a fun, supportive environment.

Starting Monday, Oct 5. We meet until mid-February (until the County Bee!)

Meetings: Mondays, 8:00-8:30 AM. Room 243

Advisor: Mrs. Weikum located in the Journey team, room 243

What Is StuCo?

Student Council is the leadership of the student body.

Each team's elected leaders will represent their team and school in various capacities.

Student Council Members are LEADERS who have SCHOOL SPIRIT! We are kind, responsible, and a POSITIVE ROLE MODEL for others.

StuCo is actively involved in making our school and community a better place. We work with the administration and the student population to address needs in our school and promote activities that include all students. StuCo sponsors events that promote school spirit, including dress-up days, pep rallies, dances, a dodgeball tournament, and student vs. staff events. We appreciate and celebrate those who make a difference.

Student Council advisors are Jodi Sullivan and Kara Fisher.

Weekly meetings: Wednesday mornings, 8- 8:30 in room 225

Tobacco Prevention is a club where students learn the dangers of tobacco use and help spread that awareness throughout the school. Students attend the Annual Youth Action Summit, participate in activities on the Great American Smoke Out, Kick Butts Day, Great American Spit Out, and/or Red Ribbon Week. Students also work to spread awareness and help pass community policies protecting peers from the dangers of tobacco use including vaping.

Meeting Dates: Beginning September 17 through May

Meeting Time: 1st and 3rd Thursday, 8:00–8:30 AM

The advisor is Andrea Beckler located in the Innovation team, room 142.

For information on sports, click on the Athletics tab below Activities.

Online Activity Registration

For this school year, we will again utilize an online registration system for parents to complete the paperwork necessary for their student to participate in activities through Bismarck Public Schools. You will notice a link on each of the athletics pages or you can access the registration system by clicking the link below. Registering your student through the system is the only way in which these forms can be completed and must be completed prior to the first practice.

CHS/HMS Online Activity Registration

***Please note, you will need to register your student at the school they will be competing for. If you have a middle school athlete participating in a high school sport, you will need to register them through the Century Registration Form***

Horizon Huskies Gear:

For all of your Horizon Huskies gear, click here. This is your one-stop shop for all Horizon gear. There is no order window as the store is always open and updating. Gear will ship directly to your house in about two weeks.

The 2026-2027 will begin with a parent/participant meeting on October 5 at 5:30 in the Horizon Middle School Cafetorium for 7th and 8th graders.

Adajios website

Head Coach: Callie Collins

Assistant Coach: Faith Danielson

7th & 8th grade boys basketball:

The 2026 7th & 8th grade boys basketball season will begin on Tuesday, January 6 at 4:00 PM. 7th graders should report to the East Gym and 8th graders should report to the West Gym. More information will be available soon.

All boys basketball schedules are available online through the school website.

https://horizon.bismarckschools.org/activities/athletics/basketball/boys-basketball

Swimming & Diving - Boys

Head Coach: Spencer Wheeling

Century Boys' Swimming website

Important Dates:

Opening Date: November 30, 2026

WDA Meet: February 27, 2027

State Meet: March 5-6, 2027

2026 cheer information

* 6th graders will cheer for the 7th & 8th girls basketball season beginning October 21

Monday, October 19 – 6th grade cheer parent meeting at 5:00 in the cafetorium

Coach contact:

Soleil Hager - cheer coach

7th/8th grade cheer:

Practice schedule

All cheerleaders must be registered on Arbiter with a physical uploaded. 6th grade DOES NOT require a physical but a registration on Arbiter is required.

Calling all kids in Kindergarten through 8th grade! Join the Century Patriots Cheer Team for a fun-filled morning of chants, cheers, and jumps!

Saturday, October 17, 2026
9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Century High School
Parent Show: 11:30 AM
$40 per child

Register by 5:00 PM on Sunday, October 4 to receive a CHS Cheer Mini Camp T-shirt!

📲 Scan the QR code on the flyer to register.

7th and 8th grade Coaches contact information can be found here

7th and 8th grade Girls Basketball Coaches

8th grade A/B - Tanner Hintz

7th grade A - Paxton Miller

7th grade B - Chad Miller

Calling all 7th and 8th grade girls! Are you looking to up your game? Try something new? Be part of a team? Compete at the varsity level? You are invited to join the CHS Girls Wrestling Team.

Wrestling will give you the physical and mental advantages to aide in any sport. Practice starts November, 9th 6:00pm at CHS.

All abilities are welcome to join!

Questions? Email Coach Blanchard: baron_blanchard@bismarckschools.org

More information about HMS wrestling on the Horizon Wrestling website

Horizon’s wrestling team is open to boys in grades 6th, 7th, and 8th, and to girls in the 6th grade.

• Parent meeting on Tuesday, October 13, 2026 @ 6:00 pm in Horizon Cafetorium
• First day of Practice is Monday, October 26, 2026
• Please visit the Horizon Wrestling website for the 2026 competition schedule
• Please take care of your online registration, uploading of physical and payment of sport fee prior to first practice.