Eagle Updates
March 24, 2023 Principal, Lorraine Johnson
Congratulations, Madras Orators!
Bookmark Contest Winners
Annabelle Hensley - 1st Place
Evelyn Chabot - 2nd Place
Georgia Karakatsansis - 3rd Place
Congratulations to these amazing artists whose bookmarks will be on display in the library media center
Karen Pitts, Media Specialist
Eighth grade students from Mrs. Garcia's English Language Arts classes visited the media center for some research tips. We discussed the research process and how students can determine if information is reliable and credible. Students were also given examples of plagiarism and how to correctly utilize paraphrasing when researching. Then, students were able to browse biographies of famous women for them to begin their research assignment for Women's History Month. Women's History Month is celebrated each year during the month of March.
Our last Scholastic Book Fair of the year will begin on Monday, March 27 with a dress up day. Our theme is "Catch the Reading Wave." Students are encouraged to dress in school appropriate beach attire for this day. The book fair will be held from Monday, March 27 - Friday, March 31 with all students visiting the fair in their classes. You may also shop online and have the items count toward our total sales. If you are interested in volunteering, we still have a few open slots. Please check out the link below. Thank you for your support of our Scholastic Book Fair!
https://www.scholastic.com/bf/madrasmiddleschool
Spring Book Fair Volunteer Sign Up
Website: madrasreadingeagles.weebly.com
Instagram: @madrasreadingeagles
Twitter: @madrasreadingea
Report Cards Issued Friday, March 24th
Report cards were issued to students Friday, March 24th and should be signed and returned to your child's homeroom teacher by Friday, March 31st.
If you have questions regarding your child's progress, you can email or call the team or teacher, or you can call the appropriate counselor at 770-254-2744 to schedule a conference. Email contact information can be found at the very bottom of this newsletter or on our Madras web site at: http://mms.cowetaschools.net/
HS Course Offerings: Attention 7th Grade Parents
Dear Parents of Rising 8th Grade Students:
This upcoming academic year, Madras will offer two courses at the middle school for credit at the high school level. These courses meet the 9-12 grade Georgia Standards of Excellence (GSE) and the Georgia Performance Standards for Modern Languages (GPS) and will be taught by high school and middle school certified teachers holding a valid 6-12 grade Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC) certification in the subject area. These courses will follow Georgia course requirements as well as any associated End of Course Test or Student Learning Objective (SLO) requirements. This is a great opportunity for your student to earn high school credit at the middle school level.
At Madras we will offer Spanish I and American Government/Civics. These courses are year-long (two-semester courses during connections) offered for high school credit to 8th grade students. Enrollment is on a space-available basis (by lottery) and requires parental permission/approval. Middle school teachers, counselors, and administrators will work collaboratively in the identification of 8th grade students requesting enrollment who have demonstrated readiness for high school coursework and student requirements. You should know that once the student is enrolled, we will only honor parent requests for schedule changes before the end of the 1st nine weeks. A student dropping out of a year-long class for high school credit and completing just one nine weeks will receive the grade earned up to that point. That grade will be reflected on the student’s middle school report card as a regular middle school course.
High school level courses taken and passed in middle school will count towards the total units required to graduate from high school. The grade earned will post to the transcript and become a part of the student’s overall GPA. However, as per current HOPE scholarship guidelines, this grade will not be used to calculate HOPE scholarship eligibility. Please become familiar with HOPE guidelines and future HOPE changes so that you know how this might affect your child.
Again, this is an opportunity for your child to earn high school credit during the 8th grade year. If you would like your student to be considered for enrollment in either of these classes, you must submit a request by May 12th at: https://forms.gle/dkB9KCTBFRytS9827
Parents of students enrolled will be contacted via email (at the email address submitted via parent’s online request) by the end of June.
A letter is being sent home with this information on March 24th. If you have questions, please contact a Madras administrator at 770-254-2744.
Health and Personal Fitness (Rising 9th Graders)
Health and Personal Fitness is available this summer through Coweta County Summer School Program for rising 9th graders and current high school students.
The Health and Personal Fitness course from the online Edgenuity platform enables rising 9th grade and current high school students the opportunity to satisfy this graduation requirement during summer school. The course is 100% online.
Dates: Monday, June 5 - Friday, July 21, 2023
Cost: $200
Click here for additional course information.
Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program (ADAP) is not included, and students must register separately with the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) for the FREE eADAP course (required by law for Georgia teens). For information and registration for EADAP, visit the DDS website.
CCSS Middle School Summer School
The 2023 Coweta County School System Middle School Summer School is a fee-based program that allows students to take credit recovery classes to make up a previously failed class. Classes are open to all middle school students. Your counselor will review your choices before submitting your summer school selections online. See the questions and answers below.
- What are the dates summer school will be held? Monday, June 5 - Friday. June 30, 2023
- Where are summer school classes held? All classes will be held at Central Educational Center (CEC). 160 Martin Luther King Drive, Newnan, GA.
What time are summer school classes held?
All classes will be held from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm.
What classes should I take?
Please contact your base school counselors or administrators.
How much do summer school classes cost?
The summer school program will cost $50 for current CCSS students. The cost for non-CCSS students is $150 for the summer school program.
How do I register and pay for summer school?
Registration for summer courses is held from March 30–May 31. All payments will be handled electronically using MasterCard/VISA, prepaid credit, or debit card. To register and make the correct payment, click on the links below:
For additional questions, email your counselor or click on the Summer School link on the Coweta County Schools website: (www.cowetaschools.net).
All non-CCSS students should email Summer School Director Ahmand Tinker atahmand.tinker@cowetaschools.net for further information.
Sixth and Eighth Grade Scoliosis Screening is March 30th
In the next few weeks, Madras Middle School will conduct a Scoliosis screening program to identify students (in grades six and eight) with signs of abnormal curvature of the spine. It is known that two children out of every 100 may have Scoliosis. If this condition is detected early and appropriately treated, progressive spine deformity can usually be prevented.
The procedure for screening is a simple test in which the screener (nurse) looks at the child’s back in the standing position and while bending forward. Boys and girls are screened separately. Girls should wear a bra, sports bra, or bathing suit under their clothes on the day of screening.
If your child has a suspected curvature, you will be notified and asked to take your child to your family physician or an orthopedic doctor for further evaluation. Letters went home with students on March 15th. If you do not want your child to be screened, please complete the requested information on the form and return it to the school. If you wish for your child to be screened, no action is needed. You can view the letter here.
Mark Your Calendars for This Upcoming Important Parent Session!
Keeping Children Safe in a Digital World
Madras has partnered with Children's Healthcare of Atlanta to host a parent presentation on Keeping Children Safe in a Digital World. Kids use different types of technology every day, and that makes them vulnerable to various dangers lurking online. In this session, we will discuss how children use technology, introduce at least four social media apps, define cyberbullying, and identify steps parents and adults can take to protect children from online risks.
Letters, along with an online invitation, will go home closer to the event, but we wanted to make you aware so you can mark your calendars now. We hope you will be able to join us to learn more about this important topic that impacts all of our students.
Presentation by: Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Traci Hurley
Date: Thursday, April 27th
Location: Madras Cafeteria
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Attention 6th Grade Parents: Required Immunizations for ALL 7th Grade Students
The Georgia Department of Human Resources has issued an immunization update regarding Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) and Meningococcal immunizations.
Children who were born on or after January 1, 2002 who are entering the seventh grade are required to have a
- Tdap and a Meningococcal immunization
- an updated immunization certificate (Form 3231) reflecting the administration dates of the two additional vaccines.
All rising 7th graders born on or after January 1, 2002, must have ONE of the following:
A current , up-to-date DHR Immunization Form 3231 reflecting the additional one dose of Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) vaccine and one Meningococcal conjugate vaccine have been administered OR
A signed immunization waiver (available at the school for eligible students only) granting an extension of 30 calendar days OR
A notarized affidavit affirming a religious belief conflict.
If you have any questions regarding your student’s immunization status, contact your child’s physician, the local Health Department, or the school nurse (Kate Caswell). We encourage you to attend to this promptly.
English Language Arts Instructional Resource Adoption
Coweta County School System is currently reviewing instructional materials to support secondary English Language Arts. Your feedback will be invaluable for the adoption process. There are three (3) options. Click on each option below to review the resource. Then use the survey to provide feedback. If you have questions, please contact paula.baker@cowetaschools.net.
Yearbooks on Sale
Yearbooks for the 2022-2023 school year are on sale and can be purchased once you are logged in by creating an account. If you have any questions, please contact bookkeeper Danielle Mattera at danielle.mattera@cowetaschools.net. Yearbooks are given out the last week of school.
- Yearbook (Order HERE)
2023 Football Spring Training Information
Spring Training will take place May 1st through May 4th from 3:30-5:15. Pick up will be behind the school at the track promptly at 5:15. Spring Training will be part of our evaluating process for tryouts and will be mandatory. Students must meet ALL requirements to participate.
Requirements
Sign up for the Football Google Classroom; fill out the required google forms, and study the routes and formations.
Pass all classes for the year. Your yearly average must be 70 or higher for all classes.
Submit an updated and completed athletic packet to the front office by April 27th.
Exhibit Madras core values. Athletes with recurring behavior problems will not be allowed to attend spring training.
Commit to being at spring training, tryouts, and practice every day.
Strive for excellence in your education, your attitude, and your relationships.
Wear proper attire. Athletes will need cleats and should wear clothing for athletics (no blue jeans, crocs, etc.)
We are looking forward to a successful 2023 season!
Coach Hitchcock, Head Football Coach
Email: roy.hitchcock@cowetaschools.net
Cell Phone: (770) 630 2462
New Publix at Arbor Springs Plaza Brings New Opportunity to Support Madras!
Wednesday (3/8/23) is the grand opening of the new Publix at Arbor Springs Plaza (intersection of 29/154). We would love if you would consider signing up to be a Publix Partners Supporter if you aren't already. Just click the link below to get started. After signing up all you have to do is enter your phone number at check out and Madras will receive a portion of your eligible purchases.
https://corporate.publix.com/community/corporate-campaigns/publix-partners
Showcase Your Eagle with a Personalized Banner!
Jamie Bowne, PTSO President
We want to highlight the dedication and drive of our students & adorn our athletic field, gym & halls with the amazing talents of our students with a personalized 2ft x 3ft banner on display.
How do you make this happen? Complete the Eagles Soar Banner Form You’ll be contacted to schedule a photo appointment. We'll submit the photo to our printer, have the banner printed & displayed at Madras. The banner will be yours to keep at the end of the season/school year.
New banners can be purchased for additional activity involvement. If you have any questions, email madrasmsptso@gmail.com
PTSO Donations
Madras PTSO has been so very grateful for the support from many families over the years. Throughout the year, we will share opportunities to support our students and staff directly with specific item requests or special treats. Between families helping fulfill those requests and direct donations in the methods listed below, we have been able to avoid large scale fundraising.
In addition to cash or check donation and membership, Madras PTSO is able to take electronic payments:
- Paypal: @madrasPTSO or paypal.me/MadrasPTSO.
- Square: https://square.link/u/8vUerSDH
- Venmo :https://account.venmo.com/u/MadrasMiddlePTSO
- Amazon Wish List: https://smile.amazon.com/registries/custom/2GD7TEIA07LH9/guest-view
Does your company offer charitable matching for donations to nonprofits or schools? Delta matching for education is back. Check with your HR department if your company has matching.
Additionally, any group, business or company wishing to advertise with Madras, we offer sponsorship banner opportunities via our car rider line. Reach out to madrasmsptso@gmail.com for more info on how you can become one of our sponsors. Don't forget we can transfer a banner from a previous school for a discount.
Thank you for supporting Madras PTSO!
Parent Volunteer Training
PTSO Event Calendar
Jamie Bowne, MMS PTSO President
PTSO is now adding dates for activities for the year the school year. Parents will continue to update this calendar at the year progresses.
MMS Window Decals!
Interested in new Madras swag? We have brand new window decals available for just $5.00. You can purchase online. Denote student name and homeroom in payment notes so we can deliver directly.
paypal: @madrasPTSO or paypal.me/MadrasPTSO
Venmo :https://account.venmo.com/u/MadrasMiddlePTSO
Square: https://square.link/u/lFkZMoyN
Banner Sponsorship Through Madras PTSO
By Jamie Bowne, PTSO President
Banner Sponsorship
Is your company, organization, or group interested in advertising at Madras? Check our our Banner Sponsorship options to promote your business today. All sponsorships are tax deductible.Dropping Off Items for Your Child During the School Day
Dropping off Lunches or Medication: If a student forgets a lunch at home, parents may drop it off at the front office, and students will be called to pick up their lunch at the beginning of their scheduled lunch time. If a student needs medication, it can be dropped off at any time for the school nurse.
Dropping off Other Items:
Any other item dropped off for students during the school day may be picked up after school. Instruction will not be interrupted for students to pick up items during class. This includes forgotten homework, Chromebooks, shoes for PE, projects, etc. Students are responsible for bringing needed materials to class daily. If these items are brought to school during the day, we are happy to make an announcement at the end of the day for your child to pick them up in the front office.
Student Cellphones and Electronics
Cell phones and Smartwatches may not be used during the instructional day and must be turned off and put away at all times. Students are permitted to use a phone in the front office during school hours for emergencies or for illness. Students should not use a cell phone or smartwatch to call home or text when sick. Any student who is ill should go through the Madras clinic. The school nurse will call parents directly. Calling home for homework, a school project, or to make arrangements to attend an after school event that wasn't previously arranged ties up phone lines and is not permitted. Students may call home if:
- There is a transportation issue,
- Lunch or lunch money is needed,
- There is a dress code issue.
- The student is sick or needs medication (must call from the clinic under the nurse's supervision).
We appreciate your help in keeping interruptions to a minimum.
Monitoring Progress, Grades, Assignments, and Attendance
Student Portal
Students will be assigned a login for Student Portal which will allow them to regularly monitor their grades and assignments. Once logged on the first time, they will be prompted to change their password. Students should keep this in a secure location and should never share the password with others.
Parent Portal
Parent Portal provides access for parents to view students' attendance, grades, schedules, lunch balances, and other useful information. It also allows teachers to communicate with parents via the portal. You can enroll HERE, (directions) If you have questions about your portal account or are having trouble logging in, please contact Student Information Services by emailing infinitecampusportal@cowetaschools.net.
Chromebook Reminder
Backpack Buddies
If you have questions, please contact Madras Counselors Caroline Rothschild or Erin Nash.
- Emails: If your primary email address is correct in Parent Portal, you will automatically receive email updates.
- Texts: If you would like to receive text alerts from Madras, Text the number 81010, and enter the message @Madras2021
- Afternoon Bus Alerts: If you would like to receive text alerts from Madras with updated bus changes or delays, Text the number 81010, and enter the message @MMSGoBuses
We hope you’ll also take advantage of all the additional ways to connect with our school community such as text reminders via Remind, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Parent and Student Portals, and the Madras Web site.
- Principal, Lorraine Johnson: lorraine.johnson@cowetaschools.net
- Assistant Principal (6th/7th), Marius Truitt: marius.truitt@cowetaschools.net
- Assistant Principal (7th/8th), Herbert Betts: herbert.betts@cowetaschools.net
- 504 Coordinator, Marius Truitt: marius.truitt@cowetaschools.net
- 6th and 7th Grade Counselor, Caroline Rothschild: caroline.rothschild@cowetaschools.net
- 7th and 8th Grade Counselor, Erin Nash: erin.nash@cowetaschools.net
- School Nurse: Kate Caswell: kate.caswell@cowetaschools.net
- In-School SE Coordinator, Kip Durden: kip.durden@cowetaschools.net
- Gifted Lead Teacher, Peggy Davenport: margaret.davenport@cowetaschools.net
- ESOL Teacher, Meredith Clark: meredith.clark@cowetaschools.net
- Athletic Director, Herbert Betts: herbert.betts@cowetaschools.net
- Food Nutrition Services Manager, Frances Singleton: frances.singleton@cowetaschools.net
- Media Specialist, Karen Pitts (Chromebooks): karen.pitts@cowetaschools.net
- Secretary, Jennifer Ryan: jennifer.ryan@cowetaschools.net
- Attendance Clerk, Lynn Zaboth: lynn.zaboth@cowetaschools.net
- Registrar, Alecia Bruce: alecia.bruce@cowetaschools.net
- School Resource Officer, Chad Davis: chad.davis@cowetaschools.net
- MMS Transportation Contact, Marius Truitt: marius.truitt@cowetaschools.net
Madras Middle School
Email: MadrasNews@cowetaschools.net
Website: http://www.mms.cowetaschools.net
Location: 240 Edgeworth Road, Newnan, GA, United States
Phone: 770-254-2744
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MadrasEagles
Twitter: @MadrasEagles