This Week at Lilburn Middle School

• Message from Dr. Irish
• Progress Reports & Extended Learning Time
• Family Academic Night, September 16
• Fall Book Fair, September 10–17
• Hispanic Heritage Month at LMS
• Mustang Athletics
• Clubs, Yearbook & Student Opportunities
• LYLA Informational Meeting, September 14
• Important Dates & Upcoming Events
• School attendance & morning resistance tips
• Family Resources & Ways to Support LMS

Greetings, Mustang Families!

As we enjoy this long holiday weekend, I want to share a moment that put a huge smile on my face this past week. Returning indoors after our Walk-n-Talk, a staff member looked over at our students—who were full of energy and thoroughly enjoying being outside in the warm weather—and simply said, "We really have great kids here."

It was more evidence that every single day, our staff and students choose positivity, encouragement, and community. That spirit shines throughout our hallways, and it makes our school a wonderful place to learn and grow together.

We also have some special news to celebrate! Please join us in congratulating our three Teacher of the Year (TOTY) Finalists: Ms. Fatima, Ms. Noble, and Ms. Cherono! We are so proud of all three of these incredible educators, and we are thrilled to announce Ms. Noble as our official Teacher of the Year!

To help you navigate the busy week ahead, here is everything you need to know, organized by topic:

Academic Progress & Reflection

• Progress Reports Distributed (Thursday, Sept 10): Progress reports provide a crucial snapshot of your child's academic journey midway through the term. They help identify strengths, celebrate growth, and pinpoint areas where extra support might be needed before final grades are set. Please review the Progress Reports you receive with your child and reflect on progress in each class.

Here are three reflection questions you may use when reviewing the progress reports with your child:

1. What is one area or subject you feel most proud of so far this term?
2. Which class feels the most challenging, and what resources or tutoring can we use to help?
3. What is one specific goal you want to set between now and the end of the semester?

Please emphasize the importance of completing each assignment. Remind your child that tutoring is available to provide support if they find a subject area challenging. Teachers are ready and willing to assist!

• Extended Learning Time (ELT) Launches on Tuesday, Sept 8: On Tuesday, students will kick off ELT rotations right after morning announcements. They will begin with a Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Moment before diving into dedicated intervention and enrichment time designed to foster focused learning and growth. Each student will receive support based on the needs that have been identified by their i-Ready screener results. Please reach out to your child's Math or English Language Arts teacher if you have questions about ELT.

Important School Events & Community Nights

• Family Academic Night (FAN) Prep: FAN Postcards will go home with students on Wednesday, Sept 9. Please review, sign, and have your student return them by Friday, Sept 11. We are running a HR competition that is based on the number of returned postcards!
• Fall Book Fair: Opens on Thursday, Sept 10—This is a great opportunity for students to pick up new reading materials! Please encourage your child to purchase a great book from the book fair.
• Local School Council Meeting #1: Taking place on Friday, Sept 11 in partnership with Corners Outreach. If you are interested in serving on the Council, please complete the form at this LINK.

Student Health & Athletics

• Scoliosis Screening (Wednesday, Sept 9): Screenings will take place for 6th and 8th-grade students during students' Connections block. A letter was sent home with additional information about the screening.
• 8th Grade Volleyball Night (Wednesday, Sept 9): Come out and support our 8th-grade athletes as they take on Richards MS at LMS!

Fundraisers & Clubs

• Theatre Double Good Fundraiser: Runs all week, from Tuesday, Sept 8 through Saturday, Sept 12.
• Morning Tutoring (8:15 AM): Connections (Tuesday), Math & Social Studies (Wednesday), Language Arts & Science (Thursday). Please take advantage of this FREE opportunity to receive academic support from your child's teachers.

Holidays & Reminders

• Monday, Sept 7: School will be closed in observance of Labor Day. Enjoy the long weekend!

Thank you for your partnership, your continuous support, and the warmth you bring to our Mustang community. Enjoy the rest of the long weekend!

Warm regards,

Dr. Irish

Proud Principal, LMS Mustangs

Family Academic Night (FAN) will take place on Wednesday, September 16 at 6:00 p.m. Families will meet with teachers in their student’s core classrooms to learn more about academics and ways to support student success.

FAN postcards will go home with students on Wednesday, September 9. Please review and sign the postcard and have your student return it by Friday, September 11. Homerooms will be competing to see which class returns the most postcards.

We hope to see our Mustang families there!

The Scholastic Book Fair is coming to LMS September 10–17! Students and families are invited to explore new books while helping raise funds to purchase books for the LMS Media Center.

Visit our Book Fair website to learn more and create a Book Fair eWallet:
https://www.scholastic.com/bf/lilburnmiddleschool

Volunteers are also needed to help with setup, assisting students, checkouts, and book returns.

Interested in volunteering? Sign up here:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C44AFA72DA0FFC07-65010813-fall

LMS is getting ready to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month! This year’s theme is “UNIDOS, SOMOS MÁS.” Students and families can look forward to activities throughout September and October, including our Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration on Thursday, September 24.

Information about this year’s activities and celebration was sent to families this past week. We would love to have families help make the celebration special. If you are interested in volunteering, contributing, or helping with Hispanic Heritage Month activities, please contact Michael Doyne at michael.doyne@gcpsk12.org or 404-683-3445 by phone, text, or WhatsApp.

Our Mustangs are off to a great start with the Beanstack Reading Challenge! Students have already logged thousands of reading minutes, with Ms. Davis's homeroom leading the way at 3,076 minutes read, followed by Ms. Irby's homeroom with 2,548 minutes and Mr. Steur's homeroom with 546 minutes. Thank you to our students, families, and staff for encouraging a love of reading. Keep logging those reading minutes on Beanstack as we continue our challenge! 📚🐴

Help us celebrate our 8th grade volleyball players at their final home game of the season on September 9 at 6:00 PM in the Old Gym. We hope to see you there!

🎟️ Tickets: https://gofan.co/event/6752051?schoolId=GA74109

Interested in improving your English skills? Gwinnett County Public Library will host English Class Registration at the Lilburn Branch on September 10 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Adults interested in English language classes are encouraged to attend and learn about available opportunities.

Learn more and register here:
https://gwinnettpl.libnet.info/event/17324658

Families can still participate in Dr. Alexandra Estrella's Listening and Learning Tour through virtual meetings beginning September 8. This is an opportunity for parents to share feedback and learn more about district priorities.

Learn more and RSVP:
https://www.gcpsk12.org/about-us/divisions-and-teams/superintendent/superintendents-entry-plan/listening-and-learning-tour

GCPS families, students, staff, and community members are invited to review and provide feedback on select Academic Knowledge and Skills (AKS) curriculum areas through September 24.

Review materials and provide feedback: https://www.gcpsk12.org/schools/enrichment-and-support-programs/instructional-resources-and-support/gems-2026-public-review

Registration is now open for the GCPS Book Mobile 5K on October 31. Proceeds support the GCPS Book Mobile program, which provides books directly to students.

Register: https://runsignup.com/Race/GA/Suwanee/BookMobile5K

Don't miss out on the memories! Yearbooks are now on sale. Reserve your copy today and celebrate the 2026-27 school year with photos, events, and special moments from Lilburn Middle School. Order online at: https://shop.yearbookmarket.com/lilburnmiddleschool

Families can now submit photos for possible inclusion in the Lilburn Middle School yearbook. Photos from school events, clubs, athletics, performances, and other Mustang moments are welcome.

Submit photos here:
https://books.yearbooks.me/ca/x63ubbrdyy87t67wpphrtgjncyf5hqsxj

Submitting a photo does not guarantee that it will be included in the yearbook.

Families can view and order student school pictures online through BPI Photography. Printed proof sheets are not sent home for students who did not purchase a picture package.

View and order photos:
https://www.bpiphotography.net

Our Mustang athletes had another busy week! Congratulations to our volleyball team on victories over Sweetwater Middle School and Radloff Middle School this week. Great job, Mustangs!

Boys basketball tryouts will begin Monday, September 28. Students interested in trying out should stay tuned for additional details about times and requirements.

Looking for Mustang gear? Visit the 2026–27 LMS Athletic Store to purchase shirts, hoodies, blankets, and other LMS athletics merchandise.

Shop the LMS Athletic Store

LMS offers a variety of clubs and activities to help students explore interests, develop leadership skills, serve their community, and connect with other students. Our online club information is currently being updated, so we will share opportunities here as meeting information becomes available.

Campus Life

Campus Life meets Wednesdays from 8:00–8:50 a.m. in the Old Gym. Students can participate in interactive games, activities, open gym, community-building, and encouraging conversations about relevant topics. The club is free, and snacks are provided.

A permission slip is requested for participation. Students can register here:
https://forms.gle/cUBPhykfU1TX6Utk8

School Contact: Michael Doyne, michael.doyne@gcpsk12.org

Chess Club
Tuesdays beginning September 8 at 8:15 a.m.
Room 8.192
Contact: Christ.Ponraj@gcpsk12.org
Open to students of all experience levels. Students should pick up a permission form from an academy office.

Crochet Club
Thursdays at 8:15 a.m.
Sponsors: Ms. Checkwood and Ms. Constantino
Contact: Jennifer.Checkwood@gcpsk12.org

Environmental Club
Tuesdays after school until 6:00 p.m.
Family Engagement Center/LMS Garden

Contact: Michael Doyne, michael.doyne@gcpsk12.org

GoSTEM Club
Mondays after school, 4:30–6:00 p.m.
Free program offered in partnership with Georgia Tech.

Students can participate in weekly STEM activities and lessons, explore college and career opportunities, receive mentorship from Georgia Tech students, and take part in a spring field trip to Georgia Tech.

Contact: Ms. Erin Luna at erin.luna@gcpsk12.org

Mustangs United Student Council Leadership

Interested in Student Council? Student Council members will meet on Wednesday, September 9, after the last bus wave in Room 2.184. Parent pickup is at 6:00 PM. Student Council executive leadership campaign activities and elections will take place throughout September.

Sponsors: Dr. Maymmie Seivright, D.J. Johnson, Egline Cherono, and M. Fatima
Contact: Maymmie.Seivright@gcpsk12.org

Readers Rally
Thursdays at 8:15 a.m.
Sponsors: Ms. Checkwood and Ms. MacDaniel

Contact: Jennifer.Checkwood@gcpsk12.org

Channel 3 Mustang News Team Applications Available
Interested in news, media, or broadcasting? Students interested in joining the Channel 3 Mustang News Team should pick up an application from the bulletin board outside the theater. Completed applications are due to Mrs. Bryant by Thursday, September 10. For more information, contact Sabrina.Bryant@gcpsk12.org.

Yearbook Creator Team

Students interested in photography, writing, design, interviewing, and helping create the yearbook are invited to apply for the Yearbook Creator Team. Creator Team members meet Fridays after school from 4:30–6:00 p.m. and take a larger role in organizing, designing, and producing the yearbook.

Applications are due Friday, September 11, at 4:30 p.m. Space is limited, and submitting an application does not guarantee selection.

Apply here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc28J4oV56bf7eA-FXNAsRwBPqGxnnmfYZmJ3Uvb8TlgOJ01w/viewform?usp=header

Yearbook Photography Opportunities

Students who want to help take photos but do not want to join the Creator Team can still contribute throughout the year by joining the Yearbook Google Classroom.

Google Classroom code: hmnd5ujd

Students in the Google Classroom will receive information about opportunities to photograph school events and activities. Creator Team members will receive priority for photo assignments.

Lilburn Middle School is excited to offer the Latino Youth Leadership Academy (LYLA) again this year in partnership with the Latin American Association. LYLA provides students with opportunities for leadership development, academic support, college and career exploration, workforce readiness, STEM activities, and other enrichment opportunities.

Students interested in learning more are invited to attend an informational meeting:

Monday, September 14
4:30–6:00 PM
Family Engagement Center, Room 8.193

During the school year, LYLA will typically meet on selected Friday mornings during the school day. Optional after-school opportunities may also be offered.

For more information, contact Michael Doyne at michael.doyne@gcpsk12.org or 404-683-3445.

Middle and high school students are invited to apply for the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, an opportunity to share student perspectives and provide feedback directly to district leadership.

Applications close September 7. Students can apply through the link in their Student Portal/LaunchPad.

Monday, September 7

• Labor Day, No School

September 8 - September 12

• Theatre Double Good Fundraiser

Wednesday, September 9

• Scoliosis Screening for 6th and 8th grade students

• Volleyball 8th Grade Night (Buy tickets here)

Thursday, September 10

• Progress Reports distributed

• Fall Book Fair, 9:15 a.m.

Friday, September 11

• Fall Book Fair, 9:15 a.m.

• Local School Council Meeting, 10:00 a.m.

• Rosh Hashanah Eve

Saturday, September 12

• Rosh Hashanah

Monday, September 14

• LYLA Informational Meeting, 4:30 PM - 6 PM

Tuesday, September 15

• Hispanic Heritage Month begins

• Hispanic Heritage Month Flag Day at LMS
  

Wednesday, September 16

• Family Academic Night, 6 PM

Friday, September 18

• Digital Learning Day, students learn from home

Saturday, September 19

• Cross Country: Wingfoot XC Classic

8th Grade Dues are $65 and help cover the 8th Grade Dance, 8th Grade Day, T-shirt, and other end-of-year activities. Dues may be paid through MyPaymentsPlus under Events & Activities by December 31, 2026.

Use ParentVUE to view your student’s schedule, grades, assignments, attendance, report cards, and bus information. Families can use the ParentVUE mobile app or access ParentVUE online.

Families are encouraged to check the ParentSquare message sent earlier this month for important 2026–27 acknowledgments, including The Plan...The Promise. Please review the information and complete any acknowledgments that are still outstanding.

Help your student build their vocabulary by reviewing our SAT Word of the Week at home!

This week’s word is forlorn, an adjective meaning lonely.

Example: “The forlorn puppy sat by the window, waiting for someone to come home."

Ask your student to use forlorn in a conversation or in their writing this week to help make the word stick.

Some students have difficulty getting to school in the morning because of anxiety, fatigue, social concerns, or other challenges. Families can help by:

• Building a predictable morning and bedtime routine
• Staying calm and empathetic when a student resists going to school
• Talking with students about what may be making school difficult
• Keeping transitions to school positive and encouraging
• Reaching out to LMS when additional support is needed

The graphic below includes additional strategies for families.

A few quick ideas for supporting your middle schooler at home this week:

• Build a daily study habit. Encourage your student to spend a few minutes each evening reviewing that day’s class notes and identifying anything they need to ask a teacher about.
  
  
• Stay engaged with school. Ask specific questions about your student’s classes and make plans to participate in school events such as Family Academic Night.
  
  
• Encourage respectful communication. Make it clear that everyone in the family should treat others with the same respect they expect to receive.
  

See more family eTIPS for this week.

There are many ways families, friends, neighbors, businesses, and community members can support Lilburn Middle School this year.

Join the PTSA: Membership is open to everyone, including parents, guardians, students, relatives, friends, neighbors, and community members. First create an account through Totem, then complete your $10 membership payment. Volunteering is not required to become a member.

Join the Lilburn Middle School PTSA

Volunteer at LMS: We are looking for family and community volunteers to help with PTSA activities, school programs, events, and other opportunities throughout the year.

Become a Business Partner: Local businesses and organizations can support LMS students and staff through our Business Partner Program.

Learn More About the LMS Business Partner Program

Other Ways to Support LMS:

• BoxTops for Education
• Kroger Community Rewards

For more information about PTSA membership, volunteering, or becoming a Business Partner, contact Michael Doyne at michael.doyne@gcpsk12.org or 404-683-3445 by phone, text, or WhatsApp.

Breakfast is available at no charge to all Lilburn Middle School students during the 2026–27 school year.

Lunch prices are:

• Full price: $2.75

• Reduced price: $0.40

• No charge for students approved for free meals

Families can view the daily breakfast and lunch selections online.

Corners Outreach offers an after-school program for middle and high school students focused on academic support, leadership, skill development, and preparation for future opportunities.

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 2:30–6:00 p.m.
Cost: $120 per family
Transportation: Available for $20 per month

Families may register Tuesdays from 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. at:

Corners Outreach
1854 Shackleford Ct.
Norcross, GA 30093

Questions: 678-896-6978

Mixtura Clubhouse offers free after-school programming for young people ages 11–17, including mentoring, family activities, transportation, life-skills development, recreation, and community activities.

Location: 6500 McDonough Dr., Suite D9, Norcross
Contact: 770-862-4886 or 470-618-7429 | mixtura@vphealth.org
Learn more about Mixtura Clubhouse

Gwinnett County Public Schools has published the 2026–2027 and 2027–2028 school year calendars here: https://www.gcpsk12.org/calendar. You can also view the LMS School Calendar for school events, activities, and important dates: https://www.gcpsk12.org/lilburnms.

The 2026–2027 PTSA Reflections theme has been announced:

“What My Culture Means to Me”

Students interested in dance choreography, photography, film production, literature, music composition, and visual arts are encouraged to begin thinking creatively about this year’s theme. Additional information will be shared in the coming weeks.

🔗 Click here to visit our Counselors' Resource Page
Find support for academics, emotional wellness, high school planning, and more.

Lilburn Middle School

• Facebook

• Instagram

• X (formerly Twitter)

• LinkedIn

• YouTube

PTSA

• Facebook

• Instagram

Athletics & Clubs

• LMS Athletics Instagram

• Band Instagram

• Chorus Instagram

• Cross Country Facebook | Instagram

• Orchestra Facebook | Website

• Soccer Instagram

• Theatre Facebook | Instagram

• FBLA Instagram

• Environmental Club Facebook | Instagram

🔗 Click here to learn more about other schools in the Meadowcreek Cluster.

• Thank you to Josh Ham for volunteering his time to help with Cross Country.
• A special thank you to the James family for again helping with volleyball concessions.
• Thank you to Brianna Antoine, Michelle Brown, and Jasmine Smith for helping with volleyball.
• Thank you to Thais Guerra for helping with the Teacher of the Year presentation.
• If we have accidentally left out anyone who supported our school, please let us know. We are grateful for everyone who contributes to the LMS community.

🔗 Click here to view previous newsletters
Notice an error or missing information in this newsletter?

Please contact me with any corrections or concerns. I want to keep this resource accurate and helpful!

This newsletter can be translated into Spanish and other languages using the Translate button at the top of the page.