HMS Middle School 101 Parent Night Meeting
This guide provides essential information for students and families joining Hendricks Middle School for the 2026-2027 school year, including academic expectations, schedules, and extracurricular opportunities.
HMS Administration and Vision
Leadership Team
- Dr. Ben Jones: Principal
- Katie James: 6th Grade Assistant Principal
- Brian Tworek: 7th Grade Assistant Principal
- April Busby: 8th Grade Assistant Principal
School Vision and Mission
The Forsyth County Schools vision is to provide a safe, connected, and thriving community for all. Hendricks Middle School builds upon this by fostering a community focused on continuous growth, collaboration, and connection. Our mission is to ensure students navigate life with a purpose in an environment where everyone feels valued and safe to be their authentic selves while taking responsible risks.
Academic Life and Scheduling
Core Curriculum
- Students participate in five academic classes daily:
- ELA (English Language Arts)
- Math
- Science
- Social Studies
- Enrichment or Literacy
Course Verification
Parent Portal will open for course verification in early May. Families will receive an email with a link to request course changes if a different academic level is needed for their child.
Daily Bell Schedule
School schedules rotate every nine weeks. A standard school day follows this timeline:
- 8:00 am: Doors open for walkers and car riders (report to cafeteria).
- 8:30 am: Busses begin unloading.
- 9:00 am: School officially starts.
- 4:11 pm: Dismissal begins in tiers.
Image description: A detailed table showing the 6th-grade bell schedule for Quarters 1 and 2, illustrating how class periods shift times throughout the year.
Learning Environment Expectations
Hendricks Middle School uses the SOAR acronym to define student expectations:
- Scholarly: Try your hardest every day and do your best work.
- Open-Minded: Be willing to try new things, take risks, and show empathy.
- Accountable: Come to class prepared and stay actively involved in learning.
- Respectful: Respect the opinions of others, classroom materials, and yourself.
Connections and Fine Arts
Elective Options
Students take two connections classes. Sixth-grade students may choose to participate in Band or Chorus. Other courses are assigned at random and change every nine weeks, including:
- Art, Leadership, Marketing, and Computer Science
- Engineering/Tech, Health, PE, and Weight Training
- Healthcare Science, A/V Broadcast, and Drama
Music Programs
Band and Chorus are open to all students with no prior experience required. These programs offer opportunities to make lifelong friendships, learn new skills, and perform in concerts.
Logistics and Communication
Lunch Procedures
- Students eat with their team group all year.
- Microwaves are available for student use.
- Lunch accounts are managed through My School Bucks.
- Outside fast food is not permitted.
Communication Channels
- Hendricks Website: The primary source for information.
- Social Media: Follow @HendricksHawks on Facebook and HendricksMiddle on Instagram.
- Monthly Newsletter: The Hendricks Herald.
- Parent Portal: Used for critical or time-sensitive information.
School Policies
- Backpacks and Phones: Must be kept in lockers. Personal devices should be off and stored between 8:59 am and 4:11 pm.
- Transportation: It is not necessary to call the school for routine transportation changes (e.g., switching between bus and car).
Extracurricular Activities
Clubs and Sports
HMS offers a wide variety of clubs, including Robotics, Math Team, Dance Team, FBLA, DECA, HOSA, E-Sports, and Art Club. Sports and intramurals include Soccer and Cross Country.
Cheerleading Program (2026-2027)
The Football and Basketball cheer programs are combined to support both seasons equally.
- Tryouts: May 4th–7th.
- Requirements: Students must have an updated physical in Dragonfly and maintain passing grades in 5 out of 7 academic classes.
- Dues: Total dues are $750, covering camp, uniforms, swag, meals, and the year-end banquet.
Important Upcoming Dates
- Hawks Camp and Open House: Monday, August 3rd.
- 6th Grade: 9:00 am – 11:00 am (Starts in the gym).
- Students will receive class schedules and meet teachers.
- Parents can meet staff, learn about the PTO, and purchase spirit wear.