Albany Middle School -

Subject: Staying Focused During the 3rd Nine Weeks: Preparation for Georgia Milestones Dear AMS Parents/Guardians, As we enter the 3rd Nine-Weeks, we want to emphasize the importance of your child staying focused in class. This is a critical time in the school year, and it is essential for students to maintain their interest and effort in their academic work. Our faculty and staff are entering BOOTCAMP MODE, an intensive preparation phase for the upcoming Georgia Milestones Assessment, where we will focus on equipping students with the skills needed to excel. To ensure effectiveness, we will have a low-tolerance for classroom distractions. Here are some ways you can support your child during this important time: ● Promote Good Study Habits: Encourage your child to review class materials daily, complete classwork on time, and ask for help when needed. ● Ensure Adequate Sleep: A well-rested mind is crucial for learning. Make sure your child gets enough sleep each night to be prepared for school. ● Stay Engaged: Discuss your child's classes and progress regularly, and maintain communication with teachers if you have concerns or need updates. With your partnership, we can ensure that every student is fully prepared and confident for testing in May. Thank you for your ongoing support as we work together to help your child succeed. If you have any questions or need further guidance, please feel free to reach out. Sincerely. Principal Simmons 01/07/2025

Subject: Reminder: Reinforcing the School Dress Code Policy We are reaching out to request your support in enforcing our school dress code policy. Recently, we have noticed an increase in students, particularly male students, arriving at school in sagging pants or pants that do not fit properly. This trend often leads to undergarments being visible, which violates our dress code and disrupts our goal of maintaining a respectful and focused learning environment. Many of the dress code violations have been observed among students who are car riders. We ask that parents and guardians ensure their child is dressed appropriately before leaving for school each morning. Moving forward: ● Any student found in violation of the dress code will not be allowed to attend class until the issue is resolved. ● Repeated violations will lead to disciplinary actions as outlined in our school policies. Your cooperation is crucial in helping us maintain a positive environment for all students. Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your partnership in supporting our students' success. If you have any questions regarding the dress code policy, please feel free to reach out. Sincerely, Principal Simmons 01/07/2025

Subject: Important Reminder: No Electronic Smoking Devices Allowed on Campus We want to remind parents and guardians about the serious implications of electronic smoking devices, such as VAPES (containing Nicotine, THC, or TCHA), in middle school. It is crucial to discuss the consequences of possessing these items with your child. Our district has a strict policy against the possession, use, or distribution of any electronic smoking devices and related tobacco products, which include: ● Cigarettes ● Smokeless tobacco ● Hookah ● Cigars ● Pipe tobacco ● Liquid nicotine ● Electronic nicotine delivery systems (e-cigarettes, e-liquids and VAPES) Georgia law, through the Tobacco 21 (T21) initiative, prohibits individuals under the age of 21 from purchasing, using, or possessing tobacco products. This legislation is designed to protect youth from harmful substances. Students caught with electronic smoking devices on campus will face significant disciplinary actions according to school policies. We encourage open discussions at home about the risks and legal repercussions of these products to maintain a safe and healthy environment for all students. Thank you for your cooperation, Principal Simmons 01/07/2025

Subject: Important: Timely Student Pick-Up Due to Cold Weather Dear AMS Parents/Guardians, Due to extremely cold weather conditions in Albany, with temperatures expected to remain well below freezing for the rest of this week, we kindly ask that all students be picked up promptly at 3:30 PM or no later than 3:45 PM each day. Your cooperation ensures that our students, teachers, and staff remain safe and warm during these harsh conditions. Thank you for your attention and support. Please make sure to bundle up, wear protective clothing, and dress for the severe cold. Stay warm, Principal Simmons 01/06/2025

AMS Students & Parents, Please review the AMS - Monthly Calendar - January 2025. It lists all of our school activities taking place in January. Thanks, Principal Simmons 01/06/2025

Happy New Year 2025 & Welcome Back, Albany Middle School Family! 🌟 Welcome to a brand-new year, brimming with possibilities and fresh opportunities! As we step into 2025 and the second semester of our Marigold Year, I want to remind each of you of the incredible potential we hold—not just as individuals, but as a community united in purpose. This year, let’s commit to thinking and acting with positivity. Each of us has the power to shape the energy around us. By approaching every challenge with optimism and every success with gratitude, we can transform our school into an even brighter space of growth and belonging. Let’s also remember the immense value of education—not just as a pathway to knowledge, but as the foundation for opportunity, empowerment, and lifelong success. Every effort we invest in learning, teaching, and growing enriches not only ourselves, but the lives of those we -- "Empower, Inspire, and Lead". Here’s to a year of growth, achievement, and making every moment count. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember! 🧡💚 With appreciation and motivation, Principal Simmons 01/05/2025

🏀🎉 Albany Middle School Family, Let’s Celebrate Our Champions! 🎉🏀 Last night, under the bright lights of the Albany Civic Center, our beloved Lady Indians showcased their heart, skill, and determination, clinching the title of CHAMPIONS of the Good Life City Holiday Classic! 💪🏽🏆 With exceptional coaching, relentless effort, and unshakable teamwork, our Lady Indians proved that when we come together, greatness happens. They inspire us not only with their performance on the court, but also with their character and accomplishments off the court. Today, we stand together as one, celebrating this incredible victory and the pride they bring to Albany Middle School. We are so proud of you, Lady Indians—keep shining, keep leading, and keep representing the orange and green with excellence! We love you, Lady Indians, and always remember—We bleed ORANGE AND GREEN! 💚🧡

🎄✨ Happy Holidays, Albany Middle School Family! ✨🎄 As we wrap up a wonderful semester, we want to wish each of you a Merry Christmas and a joyous holiday season filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments. This is a special time to reflect on the little things in life that bring us joy and gratitude—family, friendships, and the memories we create together. Stay safe, take time to recharge, and hold close the things that truly matter. We are so thankful for each member of our Albany Middle School community and the light you bring to our school. May your holiday season be bright, and may 2025 bring us even greater moments to celebrate together. With love and holiday cheer, Your Albany Middle School Family 💚🧡

Game Summary: AMS Lady Indians vs. CCMS Lady Cougars The Lady Indians battled fiercely in their basketball match against the Crisp County Middle School (CCMS) Lady Cougars on December 9, 2024. Despite their best efforts, they narrowly lost the game with a final score of 27 - 38. Key highlights of the game include: ● A competitive first half that ended in a tie ● Overcoming an initial 8-point deficit ● Intense point exchanges in the third quarter Player Performance and Team Dynamics Individual player statistics demonstrated the team's potential: ● Z. Harris led scoring with 10 points ● J. Jones contributed 6 points ● The team showed significant improvement from the previous year Coaching Perspective and Future Outlook The coaching staff expressed pride and optimism about the team's progress: ● Recognized as an emerging competitive team in Albany, GA ● Transformed from underdogs to a formidable opponent ● Confident in the team's potential to finish the season strong ● Next game scheduled for Thursday, December 12th at home against Merry Acres

Friendly Reminder: AMS parents, guardians, and stakeholders, As the holiday season approaches, we are excited to announce our 12 Days of Christmas Celebration! This event is a fun way to share holiday cheer. Each day will have a unique theme or activity to spread holiday spirit. Participation is optional.

🌟 Albany Middle School Divas Giving 2024! 🌟 Our amazing Divas gathered for a memorable evening of gratitude and growth during Divas Giving 2024 on November 23, 2024! 💐 These young leaders celebrated the power of being thankful, while learning the art of etiquette and enjoying the joy of fellowship. This special night marks a stepping stone for all the exciting events they have planned for the 2024-2025 school year. 🎉 Way to go, Divas! You are truly empowering, inspiring, and leading at Albany Middle School. #DivasGiving2024 #EmpowerInspireLead #IndianPride #MarigoldYear

🏀 We Build Champions at Albany Middle School! 🏀 Congratulations to our Lady Indians and Indians Basketball Teams for taking 1st Place last night at the 2024 Terrell County Middle School Christmas Tournament! 🎉 Your hard work and dedication make us all proud. A big shoutout to our amazing fans for showing unwavering support for both teams , spirited cheerleaders, and our coaches—you truly make the difference! 📅 Mark your calendars: Our next home game is December 13th against Merry Acres Middle School. Let’s pack the stands and cheer on our champions! 💪 #WeBuildChampions #TribePride #MarigoldYear - 12/05/2024

Friendly Reminder: AMS parents, guardians, and stakeholders, As the holiday season approaches, we are excited to announce our 12 Days of Christmas Celebration! This event is a fun way to share holiday cheer. Each day will have a unique theme or activity to spread holiday spirit. Participation is optional.

Dear Parents/Guardians, Middle school is a time of growth and transition for students, and your support plays a vital role in their success. Here are some tips to help guide your middle schooler through this important stage. Your involvement and encouragement make a world of difference! Let’s work together to help your middle schooler thrive. Please click on the following link to Support Your Middle Schooler: If you have questions or need additional resources, please feel free to contact me. Sincerely, Ms. Lou Hardy, Parent Facilitator lou.hardy@docoschools.org 229-431-3325

GAME SUMMARY: ALBANY MIDDLE SCHOOL INDIANS vs. MITCHELL COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOL EAGLES ● Date & Score: On December 2, 2024, the Albany Middle School Indians triumphed over the Mitchell County Middle School Eagles with a final score of 46-41. This match highlighted the importance of teamwork and strong defensive strategies, setting a positive tone for the upcoming championship game. ● Player Highlights: Notable individual performances included Micah Joyner, who led the team with 18 points and 5 assists. Karson Knox contributed significantly with 10 points and 4 steals, showcasing his defensive skills. Ernest Townsell played a crucial role with 6 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 blocks. Additional contributions came from Detavious Poole (5 points, 3 steals), VJ Chambers (3 points), and both Jayden Nelson and Montavious Beale (2 points each), illustrating a well-rounded team effort. ● Coaches’ Insights: Coaches commended the team's cohesive effort, with specific praise for Micah Joyner's leadership and decision-making. They highlighted Karson Knox’s impact on defense and Ernest Townsell’s rebounding skills. The balanced scoring was deemed critical for success, as players demonstrated hustle, teamwork, and discipline. Coaches acknowledged the progress made as a unit but emphasized the need for continued improvement in consistency, ball movement, and defensive strategies. ● Upcoming Championship Game: Looking ahead, the Albany Middle School Indians will compete in the championship game of the Terrell County Middle School Invitational Basketball Tournament on Wednesday, December 4th, at 7:00 PM. Their opponent will be determined by the outcome of the match between Terrell County Middle School and Stewart County Middle School, making this a pivotal opportunity for the team to strive for the championship trophy.

Good afternoon parents and guardians, please see the attachment in reference to our club shirts. We are looking forwad to full participation from all of our students. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the school.

Dear Parents and Guardians, We want to update you on the ongoing challenges with our phone systems at some sites following the recent upgrade. While we work with our technical team to resolve these issues, please use the following alternate number to contact your school: 229-439-5925.

Happy Thanksgiving, Albany Middle School Family! 🍁🦃 Start and end your Thanksgiving Day reflecting on what you're thankful for. Take time to savor small joys, share your appreciation with someone, and lend a helping hand. See setbacks as opportunities to grow, celebrate your efforts, and strengthen bonds by expressing gratitude to family, friends, and mentors. Together, let's cultivate a heart full of gratitude today and every day. 💛 Sincerely, Principal Simmons 11/28/2024

ALBANY MIDDLE SCHOOL INDIANS Game Day Results – AMS vs RSMS ● Date and Team: On November 21st, Albany Middle School faced off against Radium Springs Middle School. ● Score: The game concluded with a narrow loss for the Indians, ending at 37 - 39 Game Highlights and Player Stats ● Highlights: The game featured intense moments showcasing the team's determination. Karson Knox started strong with two three-pointers. In the final moments, Micah Joyner's key steal and layup brought the team within two points. A clutch rebound by Ernest Townsell sparked hopes for a buzzer-beater, but the final play didn't materialize in time, leading to a close defeat. ● Player Stats: ○ Ernest Townsell: 10 points, 10 rebounds, 3 blocks (double-double) ○ Karson Knox: 9 points, 2 steals ○ Micah Joyner: 8 points, 4 assists ○ Detavious Poole: 4 points ○ Jayshawn Jones: 4 points ○ Jayden Nelson: 2 points Coaches’ Comments and Upcoming Games ● Coaches’ Feedback: Despite the close loss, the coach emphasized the team's grit and teamwork. There is a need for improvement in free throw shooting, but overall progress gives confidence for the season ahead. ● Upcoming Events: The team is scheduled to compete in the Terrell County Middle School Holiday Tournament on December 2nd in Dawson, Georgia, where they anticipate competitive matchups to further their development.

ALBANY MIDDLE SCHOOL LADY INDIANS Game Day Results – AMS vs RSMS ● Date and Team: On November 21st, Albany Middle School hosted a game against Radium Middle School. ● Score: The final score was 42 - 18 in favor of the Lady Indians. Game Highlights and Player Stats ● Highlights: New players Jalexia Figgins, Jayla Stinson, Adriane Mathis, Yah’Zhuria Rohammad, and Nyla Hall showed strong defensive skills despite their nerves. Their sportsmanship and hustle were commendable. ● Player Stats: ○ Reginae Hill: 12 points ○ ZyDeriaka Harris: 11 points ○ Sarai Hamilton: 8 points Coaches’ Comments and Upcoming Games ● Coaches’ Feedback: The coaching staff praised the players for being coachable and eager to improve, expressing excitement for the rest of the season. ● Upcoming Events: The next events include the “Terrell County Holiday Tournament” on December 2nd and 4th, followed by a game against the Lady Trojans of Lee East Middle School.