community newsletter

Happy New Year from Piney Grove!

We are thrilled to kick off the second semester and embrace the opportunities that come with a new year. As we enter transition season, our 8th graders are beginning to look ahead to high school course registration, and we’re excited to guide them through this next chapter. For our 6th and 7th graders, this semester marks an important step in their journey, and we couldn’t be prouder of all our students for successfully navigating a new midterm schedule and rising to meet academic expectations.

We’re also proud to share some exciting news: Piney Grove has been named one of the Top 10 schools in Georgia by the GaDOE, with gains in all areas of CCRPI scores! This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of our students, staff, and families.

There are many exciting events and moments ahead at The Grove, and we are so grateful that you share your students with us. Here’s to an amazing second semester!

With #pineypride,

Lori

January 7-8 - iReady Testing

January 9 - Student v. Teacher Basketball Game

Jan 13 - Winter Sports Pep Rally

Jan 12-16 - Basketball Spirit Week

Jan 19 - No School

May 18 - 22 - Finals

The Georgia Department of Education (GA DOE) requires all public schools to participate in the Georgia School Climate Survey. To see the GA DOE information website click here.

FCS values parent feedback, and all FCS schools utilize this survey feedback in the school improvement process. Please provide feedback by completing the Georgia School Climate Survey. The link to the survey for Piney Grove Middle School can be accessed by clicking here.

Students will participate in i-Ready diagnostic testing on January 7th and 8th. This assessment is the same diagnostic students completed at the beginning of the school year. The mid-year assessment helps teachers monitor student progress, identify strengths and areas for growth, and use this information to guide instruction during the second semester. Parents will receive an email once the results are available to review.

G3 is our annual day of service where every student makes a difference:

• 8th graders serve off campus at community sites
• 7th graders mentor at local elementary schools
• 6th graders lead team-building and service projects at The Grove

This is the learning for the day, and all students will participate—regardless of ability to pay.

Your $20 student dues (before the February price increase!) include a G3 t-shirt, lunch, and supplies for projects.

Let’s be in community and make an impact together! Sponsor a student in need or help provide supplies. If you’re able to give more, explore our partnership levels and join us in creating something amazing.

Partnership Levels (Pay through SchoolPay)

• $20 – Individual Student Dues
• $75 – Grizzly Partnership: Multiple students + supply donation
• $150 – Green Partnership: Multiple students + sponsor a student + supply donation
• $250 – Gold Partnership: Green package plus your family name/business logo on the back of the G3 t-shirt

Dear PGMS 8th Grade Families,

As we continue to support our students in preparing for the transition to high school, we are pleased to share Rising 9th Grade information from South Forsyth High School and Denmark High School.

The information provided by both schools includes important details related to academics, course offerings, and expectations for students entering 9th grade. We encourage families to review this information together and use it as a resource when planning for the upcoming school year.

In addition, representatives from both South Forsyth High School and Denmark High School will be visiting PGMS on January 22 to meet with our 8th grade students. This visit will give students the opportunity to learn more about each school and ask questions as they prepare for next year.

If you have questions after reviewing the materials, please feel free to reach out to our 8th grade counseling team. We are happy to support you and your student throughout this transition process.

Thank you for your continued partnership as we help our students prepare for a successful move to high school.

Warm regards,

Dr. Melisa Marsh, 8th Grade Assistant Principal

Ms. Annabella Collins, 8th Grade Counselor

Digital Citizenship: January’s focus is on Media Literacy. During these years of rapid change and growing curiosity, students dive deeper into concepts like digital footprints, media literacy, AI-generated content, and tech laws. They learn how to think critically, set healthy boundaries on social media, and recognize their role as upstanders. This guide will help you continue those conversations at home— encouraging thoughtful reflection and safe decision-making.

We can’t do any of this without YOU! We have a few open positions on our PTSO board including Co-President, Vice President, VP of Fundraising, and VP of Programs. We also welcome parents who want to get involved in any capacity, big or small. If you have any questions, please email us at pineygroveptso@gmail.com.

To join the PTSO, click HERE.

Want to celebrate one of our AMAZING Piney Grove Staff Members? Please use THIS FORM to shout out our staff and celebrate the incredible ways they support our students!

We are excited to launch Partner Connect, a special opportunity for parents, families, and community members to get involved and support our students. Whether it’s volunteering at events, sharing your expertise, or lending a helping hand, your partnership makes a difference in the success of Piney Grove Middle School.