Madison County Schools

MCSS welcomes you to participate in our Community Meeting, where we eagerly seek YOUR input for our new strategic plan. Your voice holds significant importance; together, we can mold our future!

This event is tailored for the Madison County Family of Schools on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at Madison County Elementary School. The meeting is set to begin at 5:30 P.M. in the elementary school auditorium.

By attending, you can:
- Share your innovative ideas and valuable suggestions
- Establish connections with district and campus administrators
- Collaborate in shaping our vision for the future

Let's unite to create a meaningful impact!

MCSS is hosting a Community Meeting to gather YOUR input on our new strategic plan. Your voice matters, and we want to shape our future together!

We are hosting a meeting for the Hazel Green Family of schools on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at Hazel Green High School. The meeting will begin at 5:30 P.M. in the high school cafetorium.

Join us to:
Share your ideas and suggestions
Connect with district and campus administrators
Help shape our vision for the future

Let's make a difference together!

JOIN US IN CELEBRATING THE INCREDIBLE TALENTS AND DETERMINATION OF OUR MCSS SPECIAL OLYMPICS ATHLETES! Today, our extraordinary athletes showcased their skills and gave their absolute best in a range of events. These athletes exemplify the true essence of sportsmanship, resilience, and unity. Let's stand together and applaud their achievements!

We are excited to announce our upcoming MCSS October Parent Support Session Workshop: "How to Create Success as Your Day Begins." This workshop provides valuable insights and strategies to help you and your children start the day with confidence and success.

Here are the workshop details:

- Title: "How to Create Success as Your Day Begins"
- Date: October 19, 2023
- Time: 11:00 AM (Virtual Session)
- Location: Online (Virtual Session)

This workshop is open to all MCSS parents, and the best part is that it's FREE!

During the session, you'll learn practical tips and techniques to help your family establish a positive and productive morning routine, setting the tone for a successful day ahead. We understand the challenges that parents face, and this workshop is aimed at providing you with the tools you need to support your child's growth and development.

To join the virtual session, simply click the link provided on the event day. There will also be an opportunity for questions and discussions, so don't hesitate to engage with our presenter.

www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4AADAC2EA6FBC34-parent4

We look forward to your participation and hope you find this workshop beneficial. It's a fantastic opportunity to connect with other MCSS parents and further support your child's education.

We hope to see you for this valuable workshop on October 19th at 11:00 AM.

Let's work together to create a successful start to your day!

YOUR VOICE MATTERS! MCSS is thrilled to announce our upcoming Buckhorn Family Community Meeting, and we're counting on YOU to be part of our journey.

We're in the process of crafting a NEW strategic plan that will shape the future of our school district, and we value YOUR insights to make it a resounding success.

Mark your calendars: Thursday, October 19, 2023!
Time: 5:30 P.M.
Location: Buckhorn High School Cafeteria

This is your opportunity to actively participate and share your thoughts, suggestions, and vision for our schools. Let's create a brighter future for our students and community.

Take advantage of this chance to make a meaningful difference. See you there!

MCSS had a fantastic time hosting Sen. Clay Scofield and Rep. Ritchie Whorton at the New Hope High School football game tonight. They presented $30,000 in Community Service Grants to NHHS, NHES, and OCRS, boosting education!

CELEBRATING NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH WEEK! From delicious and nutritious meals to friendly cafeteria staff, our schools play a crucial role in shaping healthy habits and happy students. Let's appreciate the efforts that make every day at school a bit brighter.

WHERE IS YOUR MCSS SENIOR HEADED NEXT YEAR? If they plan on staying in the Southeast for college, you can save some cash by applying to their schools of choice next week.

https://www.mcssk12.org/Page/15109

We are thrilled to share some exciting news from MCSS. In response to the growth in the northwest part of Madison County, we plan to open a new intermediate school to serve your communities better.

The McKee Road Intermediate School will cater to fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-graders, and we plan to have it up and running in the Fall of 2026. As this new school is established, it will impact current students in the first, second, and third grades. We invite you to join us for an informational community meeting on October 12, 2023, to address your questions and gather your valuable input.

- Date: October 12, 2023
- Time: 5:00 p.m.
- Location: Sparkman High School Cafeteria

We encourage you to mark your calendars and plan to attend this meeting. We highly value your thoughts and opinions as we embark on this exciting journey in the Madison County School System. Your input will play a vital role in shaping the future of our educational community.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing you on October 12th.

MCSS is thrilled to announce our upcoming Community Meetings, and we want YOUR input! We're crafting a NEW strategic plan, and we need YOUR insights to make it a success. We are hosting a meeting for the Sparkman Family of schools on Thursday, October 12, 2023, at Sparkman High School. The meeting will begin at 5:30 P.M. in the high school auditorium.

Let's shape the future of MCSS together. Share your thoughts, suggestions, and vision for our schools. Don't miss this chance to make a difference! See you there!

MCSS IS PROUD TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH! Join us in showing appreciation for the incredible leaders who are crucial in shaping our educational communities. PowerOfUs

This week, the Madison County Soil and Water Conservation District sponsored Hazel Green High School and its FFA program. The funds will be used to continue developing the outdoor classroom at the school. If you haven’t seen it, the campus looks incredible, thanks to the boys and girls in the HGHS Ag Academy!

SAVE THE DATE! MCSS is thrilled to announce our upcoming Community Meetings, and we want YOUR input! We're crafting a NEW strategic plan, and we need YOUR insights to make it a success. Meetings begin at 5:30 P.M.

Tuesday, September 26, 2023 - New Hope Elementary School
Thursday, October 12, 2023 - Sparkman High School
Thursday, October 19, 2023 - Buckhorn High School
Tuesday, October 24, 2023 - Hazel Green High School
Thursday, October 26, 2023 - Madison County Elementary School

Let's shape the future of MCSS together. Please share your thoughts, suggestions, and vision for our schools. Don't miss this chance to make a difference! See you there!

EXCITING NEWS ALERT! Brace yourselves for some BIG news… This afternoon, we received an incredible announcement from the U.S. Department of Education: Mount Carmel Elementary School has been honored as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2023! Yes, you read that correctly – NATIONAL recognition!

Being designated a National Blue Ribbon School is a testament to the unwavering dedication and hard work of our amazing students, teachers, staff, and administrators, who have consistently strived to make Mt. Carmel the absolute best school in Alabama! These schools are recognized as shining examples of effective and innovative educational practices, setting the bar for educators and schools everywhere.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! MCSS will host an E-Learning Day on Wednesday, September 20, 2023. Your child's teachers will release assignments, so look for essential updates. Get ready for a day of digital learning and stay connected with MCSS!

REACHING FOR THE STARS!!! Fifth-grade New Hope and Owens Cross Roads students received some out-of-this-world news today! Thanks to the Huntsville Elks Lodge No. 1648, 113 students can spend one week at Space Camp this Spring for FREE. The Elks raised more than $75,000 to make this dream come true! This is an excellent example of how our Community Partners can help change the trajectory of our students!

UPDATE: MCSS has revised the Standard Athletics Procedures for sporting events and will be ready to implement them this week. As a school district, we appreciate your patience and willingness to assist us in making our athletics events a safe and family-friendly venue. As we listened to your valuable feedback, our Athletics and Information Technology Departments worked to put a system in place for ALL ninth through twelfth-grade students to use as a means for admission identification.

The new procedures and instructions to access student identification cards are outlined in this email through the PowerSchool Student Portal. The student identification cards can be “screenshot” on a mobile device, printed onto a sheet of paper, or accessed through a web browser on their device and presented at an admission gate. Admissions attendants will also accept a valid driver’s license for student admission. Please also note that MCSS Student IDs will only be accepted for students who attend one of the high schools participating in the event.

September is School Attendance Awareness Month!

Parents and guardians, let's kick off the academic year with a commitment to sending our children to school on time and daily!

Why is regular school attendance so crucial? Here are some reasons to consider:

- Learning: Every day in the classroom counts! Consistent attendance helps students keep up with lessons, acquire new skills, and succeed academically.

- Social Interaction: School provides a vital environment for kids to build friendships, develop social skills, and create lasting memories.

Confidence: Regular attendance boosts a child's self-esteem and confidence, knowing they can tackle challenges and be part of a supportive community.

- Future Success: Education is the key to a brighter future. Each day of school attendance contributes to your child's long-term opportunities and career prospects.

- Legal Requirements: Parents are legally responsible for ensuring their child's regular attendance in school.

Let's work together to make September a month of perfect attendance! Set a positive example for your child by prioritizing their education and punctuality.

Remember, the journey to success starts with showing up. Let's make this school year the best one yet!

As discussed in our special meeting on Tuesday evening, security measures are being enhanced at all MCSS athletic events. These steps are not designed to burden students, parents, or our communities. No matter the age, MCSS is responsible for all spectators who attend any event on our campuses. As such, we must take steps to make sure everyone enjoys their attendance and leaves safely. We know these new procedures change how we have done things in the past. There will be some growing pains during the roll-out, but we ask for your patience and assistance while we get these up and going.

START YOUR CHILD’S DAY OFF RIGHT! Dedicated CNP staff are up way before dawn preparing breakfast for our students. MCSS offers nutritious hot or cold breakfast options daily. Have your child stop by the school cafeteria to get their day going.

MCSS Family Members,

Thank you for your patience in giving us time to thoroughly analyze the scope of activities that led to the suspension of Friday night’s contest between Hazel Green High School and Sparkman High School. It is safe to say that no one expected that type of disruption, and frankly, it is extremely disappointing on many levels. It is also disheartening to read people's false comments on social media. Without knowing the facts of what happened, this is fear-mongering and has no place in a school or school district environment.

For our student-athletes and coaches who faced adversity throughout the week preparing for the football game, it is a major letdown not to have the option to finish what they started. We share your disappointment for our parents who make the sacrifices to watch their children compete at high levels. So many were impacted by the unthinkable actions of very few, and this cannot stand.

We can share what we know as definites as we continue investigating this disruption with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Madison County School Resource Officers, and school and district administrators. There were NO weapons used or shown during the incident. We can also share that there were NO physical altercations or injuries. We also want to share that the incident was caused by individuals who wanted to strike fear in the crowd.

We will continue to work with our partners to ensure the individuals who instigated the panic will be held accountable to the fullest reach of our abilities. Moving forward, MCSS will also introduce additional security measures at athletic contests and significant gatherings.

Out of respect for our family, MCSS intentionally refrains from speaking publicly about incidents until we have time to thoroughly investigate incidents and develop a plan to move forward. As such, the Madison County Board of Education has called a special meeting for Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. at the Madison County Board of Education. During this meeting, we will discuss the incident further, the actions leading up to Friday evening, and release how we will ensure the safety of those playing and in attendance moving forward.

Again, we share your disappointment and frustrations. We look forward to putting this situation behind us and allowing our student-athletes and coaches to compete without worrying about what may happen off the field or court.

Good Evening MCSS Family,

This message is intended to provide accurate information about a situation that occurred Friday night at the football game between HGHS and SHS. On two separate occasions, a large number of students in the open area on the south end of the stadium began running and causing a major disruption.

At this point, we are unsure why these disruptions occurred. We are currently working with our MCSS Resource Officers and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office to get to the bottom of the situation.

Out of an abundance of caution, the decision was made to clear the stadium and suspend the game. This incident will be thoroughly investigated, and proper action will be taken.

We appreciate the support of the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, MCSS School Resource Officers, and the staff of both schools for their handling of the situation.

We will release more information as we receive it.

JOIN THE FAMILY! MCSS has operation positions available for those who want to work in a family atmosphere. As a premier school system in Alabama, we offer competitive wages and great benefits. Join the Family to Make a Difference!
www.mcssk12.org/apply

GAME TIME CHANGE!
Due to the excessive heat we are experiencing in north Alabama this week, the MCSS Athletics Department has made the decision to delay the start of our scheduled football games on Friday, August 25, 2023. Both in-district games will begin at 8 p.m., as shown below.
-Buckhorn High School @ Madison County High School, 8 p.m.
-Hazel Green High School @ Sparkman High School, 8 p.m.

How does MCSS take care of our new teachers? We team them up with incredible mentors on each campus. The MCSS New Teacher Development Program gives our newest assets the resources to succeed in the classroom and in life.

SMILING FACES!! Two weeks in, our students are getting back into the swing of things. On Thursday morning, we headed out to MXR to watch kindergarteners learn how to use their laptops, third graders get their exercise on, and fourth graders pick out their favorite lunch offerings. And look at those SMILING faces 😁

Madison County School System Families,
The National Weather Service forecast for Wednesday, August 9, 2023, predicts strong to severe storms in the afternoon, including very high winds and possible tornado activity.

This morning, the NWS weather briefing increased the forecast to an Enhanced Risk, with an anticipated arrival around our standard school dismissal time.

In an abundance of caution, the Madison County School System will dismiss schools at the following times:
- Pre-K, Elementary, Intermediate, and K-8 schools at Noon.
- Middle and High Schools at 1 p.m.
- MCSS will adjust bus routes accordingly.
- All after-school activities are canceled on Wednesday.

Have a good evening, and please stay weather-aware.
Ken Kubik
Superintendent, Madison County School System

WELCOME BACK!! It’s hard to tell whether it was the parents, the students, or maybe the teachers who had the biggest smiles when campuses across the district opened Wednesday morning. No matter who it was, MCSS is glad to be back in session. Thanks for your patience with the traffic woes; they will get better!

HERE WE GO!! The final touches are complete, and it’s time for the kids to return to school. MCSS teachers and staff deserve applause for preparing their campuses for the big day. We cannot wait to see our students on Wednesday morning!

AN MCSS TREASURE! As the week of Back to School begins, we would like to celebrate an incredible educator. This week marks Dr. Nancy Curry’s 53rd year in education. She is the biggest cheerleader for our teachers and goes above and beyond every day to ensure our students get only the best education. Thank You for your continued service to MCSS!

SCHOOL SUPPLY LISTS?!? We have set up a one-stop shop on the MCSS website for ALL of your 2023 Back to School questions and needs. Head over for a copy of your school supply lists, lunch menus, school year calendar, etc. https://www.mcssk12.org/backtoschool

INSPIRED! Hundreds of MCSS teachers have spent two days mastering the latest techniques to use in their classrooms this upcoming school year. Thank you to our staff and sponsors for a successful 2023 North Alabama Teachers Conference!

AWARD WINNERS! During Day 1 of the MCSS North Alabama Teachers Conference, we recognized these two outstanding individuals. Mrs. Mary Beth Boyett, a teacher at Walnut Grove Elementary School, was awarded the 2023 Karon Pyle Educational Technology Award. Pictured next to Mrs. Boyett is Mr. Jim Snell. Mr. Snell recently retired from MCSS after a distinguished career in Information Technology. Snell received The 2023 Vickey Sullivan Spirit of Learning Award for his support of the district for so many years.

Don't forget! Get your required immunizations before school starts!
The Madison County Health Department's Back-to-School Walk-in Vaccine Clinic will be July 17th-August 4th, 8 AM- 3 PM at 301 Max Luther Drive, Huntsville, AL 35811.
- New Alabama residents will need a copy of vaccine records
- No insurance required
- No appointment necessary, first come, first serve
A list of required immunizations can be found on page 66 of the MCSS Parent & Student Handbook.

Join Our Team! The Madison County School System has open certified, classified (support), and administrator positions. View all open positions at www.mcssk12.org/apply.

The Madison County School System welcomes a new class of principals to the family.

As the 2023-2024 school year quickly approaches, MCSS would like to introduce nine individuals who are committed to the education and safety of our students. As Principals, these women and men will be taking the head leadership role at their respective campuses this month. Each one brings their unique qualities and experiences to the school community in which they will serve. Please join us in welcoming them to the MCSS Family!

* Buckhorn Middle School, Justina Wills (Alabama State University, University of West Alabama, Auburn University) - Ms. Wills has worked in public education for 14 years. During that time, she has served as an adult education instructor, English teacher, school counselor, and assistant principal. Wills prides herself most on her work with at-risk youth. She is passionate about building the capacity of her faculty and staff in areas such as culturally responsive teaching, restorative discipline practices, and trauma-informed schools. Justina is committed to creating safe spaces for all students.

* Central School, Susan Hancock (Jacksonville State University, University of Alabama, University of West Alabama) - Ms. Hancock has 24 years of public education experience. Her service includes positions as Instructional Coach, English Teacher, Interventionist, Social Studies Teacher, and Cheerleading Coach. Hancock has served the last 14 years as the Assistant Principal at Central School. She wants to use her knowledge and skills to promote a safe and academically challenging school environment and encourage students and staff to set high standards for maximum success.

* Endeavor Elementary, Dana Cooper (LeMoyne College, Houston Baptist University, Kennesaw State University) - The 2023-2024 school year marks 29 years for Ms. Cooper in public and charter schools. Her experience includes work as a Special Education teacher, elementary teacher, Instructional Coach, Assistant Principal, and Principal. Ms. Cooper has also held the distinguished National Board Certified Teacher certification in the area of Special Education. She believes in leading with compassion and grace. A positive, reflective, and supportive learning community is an integral part of students' learning and prepares them for future leadership.

* Harvest Elementary, Jerry Anne Screws (Birmingham-Southern College, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Samford University) - Ms. Screws began her career in public education in 2005. During her tenure, she has worked as a teacher, academic interventionist, assistant principal, and principal. Ms. Screws believes all students can learn and achieve when they are provided with a loving, fun environment that meets their individual needs. Her goal is for each child to meet their highest potential and become a lifelong learner.

* Hazel Green Elementary, Angela Toyebo (University of Science of Arts of Oklahoma, Southwestern Oklahoma State University) - Ms. Toyebo’s career in public education began 24 years ago. She has served as an elementary classroom teacher, Parent Educator, English teacher, Instructional Coach, and principal. She comes to MCSS as a distinguished National Board Certified Teacher. Ms. Toyebo has worked in the state of Oklahoma her entire career. She loves elementary education and thrives in communication with teachers, students, and parent-facing roles.

* Madison County Virtual Academy, Scott McMickin (University of Alabama, Samford University) - Mr. McMickin has served in public education for 20 years. His experience includes being a Marine Biology teacher, Pre-AP Biology teacher, varsity football coach, and Assistant Principal at Sparkman High School. Mr. McMickin believes that education does not end at graduation; it is only the start of being a lifelong learner. Educators are to ensure that students are prepared for that process, regardless of where that takes the student when their high school days are over.

* Meridianville Middle School, Matthew Parkin (Jacksonville State University, University of South Alabama) - Mr. Parkin began his public education career 13 years ago. His experience includes work as an Academic Interventionist, Pre-AP Biology teacher, AP Physics teacher, Physical Science teacher, athletics coach, and Assistant Principal. Mr. Parkin brings a passion for sharing knowledge through a patient and tolerant attitude. His philosophy for school administration is to enable a school to grow and assist students and teachers in reaching their maximum potential.

* Sparkman High School, Todd Dreifort (Wichita University) - Mr. Dreifort brings 29 years of experience in public education to the MCSS Family. During his tenure, he has served as a History teacher, athletics coach, Athletic Director, Assistant Principal, and Principal. As an education leader, Mr. Dreifort encourages students and staff to strive for excellence in both academics and life. On a side note, Mr. Dreifort played college baseball at Wichita State University, where he was a member of the 1989 College World Series Championship team. He also played professional baseball for the Montreal Expos.

* Sparkman Middle School, Kellen Conaway (Alabama A&M University, University of West Alabama, University of Arkansas) - This upcoming school year marks Mr. Conaway’s fifteenth year in public education. He has served as a high school History teacher, school counselor, Assistant Principal, and Principal. His most recent assignment was as Principal at Buckhorn Middle School. Mr. Conaway’s passion is developing positive relationships with everyone within the community, working with students as they grow, supporting teachers and staff to reach their greatest potential, strengthening a connection between school and home, and fostering a positive school culture.

MCSS features 30 top-ranked campuses, with state and nationally-recognized extra/co-curricular programs for our more than 20,000 students. Everyone on an MCSS campus matters, and we personalize education to meet their needs, which may be why we are annually highlighted as Blue Ribbon Lighthouse Schools of Excellence.

AWESOME JOB!! This week, Assistant Principal Franetta Ryans of New Hope High School became a Certified Instructional Leader (CIL) by the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS). Ryans has spent the past year completing rigorous coursework and in-field experiences to reach this coveted credential.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION! MCSS cannot thank Dist. 1 Commissioner Tom Brandon and his team enough for going above and beyond to enhance the safety and accessibility of Meridianville Middle School. Commissioner Brandon has generously provided the necessary equipment, materials, and workforce to remove the median and widen the entry/exit to four lanes. Their commitment to our community is truly inspiring!

Exciting Announcement!! MCSS is thrilled to share that Mr. Alex Hughes has been appointed Assistant Superintendent of Instruction! He has been an educator for 27 years and served as principal of Central School for the past 17 years.

On Monday morning, Superintendent Kubik had the pleasure of introducing Mr. Hughes to his new staff. His vision for student success and innovative approaches to instruction left us feeling inspired and energized for the future of our schools.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Mr. Alex Hughes! We look forward to the positive changes and continued growth under his leadership.