Spotlights
STEM Student Explores the Animal World Through New YouTube Channel
February 25th, 2021
Please note: This article was originally posted during a previous school year. Information and/or dates from past events may be not be relevant for the current school year. One Oakland Elementary student is turning her love for animals into a platform every student can enjoy. Jaylene Park, a 4th-grade virtual student at Oakland Elementary, embarked on a new project to bring awareness to the world of animal science. As part of the STEM program, Jaylene enjoys the challenge of critical thinking and developing new ideas. While a CMCSS K-12 Virtual school student, she has adapted to the more individual learning style online classes present. The new learning environment has not hampered her interest in creation. “I like the assignments because I am able to use different platforms that I haven’t worked with before. The assignments are also more challenging than they would have been in traditional school,” said Jaylene while discussing her virtual classes. Her parents know supporting her interests and encouraging activity outside of school is essential. “Parents should be creative,” said Ho Ryong Park, Jaylene’s father. “Simply crafting or playing outside can be a STEM activity.” “It’s her idea. We just help her connect to her interests,” he continued. He insists all parents can engage with their children in new ways. “What can you initiate? Ask your child, ‘Are you willing to do this?’” For Jaylene’s family, animals were a clear choice. “I like animal science, and with the pandemic, we had to be indoors more,” she explained. “My parents and I talked about a way to spend our time meaningfully, and we decided to do something we could do consistently, so we started the YouTube channel.” Her interest in science is evident in her new channel, AniFam. The channel features videos highlighting different animals in each episode. […]
SROs, Substitutes, Warehouse, and Book Processing
January 25th, 2021
Please note: This article was originally posted during a previous school year. Information and/or dates from past events may be not be relevant for the current school year. In CMCSS, we share a vision for the well-being of each of our students. Without the dedication and determination of our School Resource Officers, Substitutes, Warehouse, and Book Processing employees, implementing this vision would be impossible. Each day, this diverse group keeps our schools safe, classrooms operating effectively in the absence of teachers, and ensures students and employees have the textbooks, furniture, and other resources they need to succeed. Thank you, SROs, Substitutes, Warehouse, and Book Processing employees. You show up each day to protect and serve our students. Your planning and preparation ensure our schools operate effectively and efficiently. Thank you for serving above and beyond every year.
NWHS Students Learn Through Leaders
January 22nd, 2021
Please note: This article was originally posted during a previous school year. Information and/or dates from past events may be not be relevant for the current school year. Northwest High AP Chemistry students did not need to travel far to receive the field trip of a lifetime. In December, the students, who are members of the Health Science Academy, had the chance to speak with Dr. Alex Jahangir, MD, MMHC. Dr. Alex Jahangir is the chief of Nashville’s Coronavirus Task Force, Director of Orthopedic Trauma at Vanderbilt Medical Center, a professor at Vanderbilt University, and chairman of Nashville Metro’s Board of Health. Ms. Winstead and Dr. Jahangir are alumni of the same high school, and she seized the opportunity to request 15-20 minutes of his time for her students. Dr. Jahangir spent nearly 45 minutes listening to students and answering their questions. Ms. Ginna Winstead, the Chemistry teacher at NWHS, said, “When I announced this opportunity to my class, they were in disbelief that they would be able to speak to someone they see in the news on a daily basis. As one student put it, ‘He’s a local medical celebrity.’” During the call, they learned about the vaccine roll out to the public and misconceptions about COVID-19. Dr. Jahangir spoke candidly to the students about how to handle a high-stress career in the public eye and how to use your career to give back to the community. Many of these students are considering careers in Health Science. Dr. Jahangir’s first-hand knowledge was invaluable. As members of the Health Science Academy, they appreciated the opportunity to inquire about the always-changing and advancing field of medicine from a physician who has become pivotal in our region during the pandemic. Since the conversation, other health science classes have shared the Zoom recording […]
Technology Department
November 18th, 2020
The CMCSS Technology team has had quite the year. This department has proven their worth time and again, continuing to meet adversity head-on. In just a few short months, they programmed tens of thousands of computers for our students and educators. When faced with the circumstances surrounding virtual learning and technology issues, they put in long hours and continued to find innovative solutions. Each day the team fielded frustration and expectation with calm and empathetic resolve. They are truly role models for patience and perseverance this year. Thank you to our technology superstars.
Road to Graduation
October 28th, 2020
Please note: This article was originally posted during a previous school year. Information and/or dates from past events may be not be relevant for the current school year. Receiving a high school diploma is not merely a culminating event; it opens the door to a lifetime of opportunity. For CMCSS, student success is a core foundation. “Earning a high school diploma can translate into success after graduation for our students,” said Christy Houston, principal of Montgomery Central High School. Each year, the high schools remain laser-focused on student achievement, and graduation is always a priority. The COVID-19 pandemic did not deter the mission, and CMCSS schools maintained some of the state’s highest graduation rates. “We like to tell them that graduation is one of a very short list of things in life that you never get a second chance to complete,” added Dr. Schanda Doughty, principal of Rossview High School. Ultimately, the COVID-19 pandemic altered the events of 2020 in devastating ways. Seniors lost many end-of-year events and activities. However, the students and educators refused to let the pandemic slow academic progress. Working together in new and creative ways, CMCSS maintained a 94.3-percent graduation rate. This was down only one-tenth of a percentage point from the previous year. Comparatively, the state average dropped to 89.6% after a steady climb in the last decade. “[The pandemic] didn’t change the focus, but it just simply changed the methods. Students were not in our buildings, so we had to rely on technology and parent and student contacts to ensure progress was being made, and follow up when it wasn’t,” said Houston. There is a defining difference at CMCSS, a mentality rooted in the culture of the district. For over a decade, district leaders have focused on the relationship between student and school, understanding […]
Principals | Onsite team
October 22nd, 2020
October is the month to express our sincere gratitude to two groups of servant leaders: Principals and the Onsite team. “It’s not a job. We truly care. Education is the foundation for all of life’s successes.” October is National Principals Month and CMCSS is fortunate to have caring and compassionate leaders in our schools. These administrators work tirelessly to achieve the highest standards for our students and staff. The perception of a principal is often a mix of authority – who wants to be sent to the principal’s office? However, the role encompasses so many different needs. Thank you to our principals for serving as an emotional supporter, a tireless advocate of our educators, champion of our student successes, and partner of our stakeholders. Our principals have kept a positive momentum and encouraging spirit that is essential to thriving schools this year. Thank you, for being a true representation of servant leadership. Healthcare heroes have never been more important than in 2020. The team at Onsite is committed to keeping Montgomery County employees physically and emotionally healthy. When you’re feeling at your worst, this team of dedicated healthcare professionals is at their best. Providing top-rated medical attention at the clinics, Onsite employees consistently provide holistic care for CMCSS staff. From routine medical treatments to nutrition education, wellness programs to mental health support, the staff at Onsite leads with compassion and service above self. Thank you for always going above and beyond when we need it most. Our lives truly depend on you.
Logan Sykes & Gracey Suggs
October 7th, 2020
October is National Bullying Prevention Month, a conversation that CMCSS continues all school year. Two Montgomery Central High students, Logan Sykes and Gracey Suggs shared their thoughts on anti-bullying. Their message encourages CMCSS students and staff to be a positive force in the schools. Also, they urged classmates to stand against bullying with student-led initiatives. This year, schools will promote the “Be a Buddy, Not a Bully” initiative. Bullying can begin anywhere, at home, in a team environment, and, unfortunately, within a school. CMCSS district leaders continue to review and discuss bullying prevention topics within schools. However, the entire community needs to support the anti-bullying effort. Logan Sykes, a junior at MCHS, spoke candidly about the existence of bullying. “It’s sad, but it’s true.” He was adamant that the student body can, and should, take a pro-active stance on anti-bullying even though teachers continue to have conversations with the student body. “Bullying prevention should be student-led,” he said. Gracey Suggs, a sophomore at MCHS, agrees. “Students normally follow other students,” said Gracey and continued to explain that students should set the example for each other. “Some students feel they’re not as worthy as other kids,” explained Gracey pointing to examples of different clothes, interests, or grades. Logan agreed, referencing situations that may occur in the lunchroom or classroom. When asked how students or parents could combat these feelings, Gracey encouraged them to remember, “You’re always worthy no matter what.” Both students felt that even small steps made a difference in the effort to end bullying in schools. “Go out of your way to help others,” said Gracey. “A simple smile.” Logan agreed, “Just smile. Be kind.”
Mechanics, Bus Drivers, Bus Aides
September 15th, 2020
Dear CMCSS Mechanics, Bus Drivers, Bus Aides, So much of what you do goes unseen, but the impact you make is felt each and every day. Thousands of families depend on you to transport their students to and from school. Thank you for your commitment to their safety. To our mechanics: Your knowledge and expertise are critical to maintaining our fleet. Without you, over 600 buses and vehicles would sit idle. Thank you for your hard work. To our bus drivers: Though the job is not always easy, it is always appreciated. Your patience and dedication know no bounds. You are truly valued. To our bus aides: Your support of our staff and students is essential. Thank you for setting a fantastic example to those around you. There is not a day that goes by that you have not made an impact on a student or colleague. We hope your day is filled with kindness and respect.
Nyla Saines
September 15th, 2020
Please note: This article was originally posted during a previous school year. Information and/or dates from past events may be not be relevant for the current school year. The CMCSS mission is to educate and empower students to reach their potential. For Nyla Saines, CHS Class of 2020, her high school experience also empowered her to achieve her dream. Even at an early age, Saines dreamed of working in the beauty industry. Through the Clarksville High CTE cosmetology program, she made her dream a reality. “Since I was five-years-old I’ve always loved doing people’s hair and nails,” Saines said. “But I struggled with my own self-esteem and confidence issues.” When Saines first heard about the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, she was interested but unsure. “It’s not easy,” she insisted. “The courses are very hands-on and students have to take the work seriously.” By her junior year, she was certain this was the right decision. That’s when she was first introduced to a teacher who made a big impact, Laina Shearon. Shearon is the cosmetology teacher at Clarksville High School. Shearon has taught at CHS for four years and is also a licensed cosmetologist. “Ms. Shearon is one of the most loving and caring people I’ve ever encountered,” said Nyla. Whenever she felt self-doubt creep in, Ms. Shearon was right there to lift her back up. “She always told me to be confident in my work and never give up.” The hard work paid off. Nyla Saines became the first Tennessee high school student to receive her Cosmetology license through an apprenticeship model, while still a full-time student. “Nyla has always worked so hard and stayed so determined in her journey of obtaining her cosmetology license. It definitely took hard work, perfected skills, and lots of focus to accomplish […]
Custodians
August 19th, 2020
You know what they say, “teamwork makes the dream work.” August starts a new school year and the opportunity to share our deepest appreciation and gratitude to the 5,000+ employees who help to make a difference in our students’ lives. Dear Custodians of CMCSS, We see you. Each year, you go above and beyond to ensure healthy and safe learning environments for our students. We are especially grateful for your commitment this year during the challenges of the global pandemic. We see the time and effort you have put in and the patience that you have graciously shown through all of the adjustments and everchanging protocols. Thank you for your heroic dedication to help keep things running and clean as we embark on this school year. The work you do is vital to our daily and overall success. You are making a difference in our students’ lives, and for that, we are forever grateful. We hope today is full of kindness, physically distanced air-high-fives, and encouragement!