September 20, 2023 | Issue 133

Reminders from OMMS Principal about Drop-off

To ensure the safety and well-being of all students and staff members, I'd like to remind everyone of a few crucial guidelines regarding arrival procedures at Oakland Mills Middle School. 

Drop-off on Santiago Road: Please refrain from stopping, pulling over, or dropping off your students directly on Santiago Road.

This measure is in place to prioritize safety and aligns with traffic regulations. 

Interfaith Center Drop-off: Parents and guardians should aim to arrive at 7:40 am. All vehicles must use the drop-off loop at

the Oakland Mills Interfaith Center on Santiago Road. Follow the guidance of staff members at the entrance who will guide you

through the drop-off process.

Drop-off Lane Guidelines: When entering the designated drop-off lane, please proceed slowly and adhere to the instructions

provided by OMMS staff members present. Remember that only entry into the Interfaith Center from Santiago Road is allowed. 

Safety First: We kindly request that you do not drop your student off on Santiago Road, even if there's no traffic behind you.

This precaution is in line with our commitment to safety. 

Car Riders with Disabilities: Families with students who have disabilities are encouraged to reach out to Ms. Coleman. She will provide access to the bus loop to accommodate specific needs 410 313-6937. 

Late Arrivals: If your student arrives after 8:00 am, please utilize the OMMS bus loop. Your student should check in at the front office for a late pass before proceeding to class. 

Bus Riders: The four HCPSS endorsed buses will enter the school’s bus loop. Access to the school’s bus loop will be restricted during daily arrival. OMMS staff will assist  your students upon their arrival.  

We understand that the morning routine can be rushed, but it's imperative that we prioritize the safety of our students and staff during drop-off. These procedures are designed to make the process efficient and secure. Kindly note that we may make adjustments to these procedures as necessary to enhance student safety continuously.  

Once again, I extend my sincere gratitude to each one of you for your cooperation and commitment to a safe and successful school environment. Your support makes a significant difference in the overall well-being of our OMMS community. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Regards,

Principal Coleman

Change to School Start Times

Starting this Wednesday, September 20, Oakland Mills Middle will change its start time to 7:50 a.m. and ending time to 2:35 p.m. The front doors will open at 7:40 a.m.

Help Teachers Buy Supplies

The OMMS PTSA has put together a list of teachers' Amazon wish lists for supplies. Click HERE to see the list.

OMMS Parent Night

October 18, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

The Howard County Health Department and Department of Human Resources and Services Office of the Local Children's Board will provide info on social media and nicotine vaping products. RSVP encouraged but not required (RSVP includes questions to help with planning).

Change to School Start Times

Starting Wednesday, September 20, arrival and dismissal times have been changed to the following:

• Doors open and student supervision begins at 9:15 a.m.
• Late bell rings and instruction begins at 9:25 a.m.
• Dismissal begins at 3:50 p.m.

THES PTA Restaurant Night at Jason's Deli

September 22, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.

8874 McGaw Road, Columbia

Mention Thunder Hill ES when you order by phone and/or dine in.

THES PTA Meeting

October 5, 6:00 p.m.

School Closure Dates

September 25: Schools closed

October 9: Schools closed

Adjusted School Bus Pick-up Drop-off times

Beginning Wednesday, September 20, new pick-up times will be in effect. You can log into HCPSS Connect Synergy, select More Options and then Homeroom / Transportation / POS to see your new bus times. This information also can be found in the HCPSS online bus locator.

Board of Education Meetings

• September 21, 4:00 & 7:00 p.m. – Regularly Scheduled Meeting
• October 12, 4:00 & 7:00 p.m. – Regularly Scheduled Meeting

Hybrid meetings are virtual and in-person (more info) and will be streamed live/viewed on the HCPSS board website or on Comcast channel 95/Verizon 42 in Howard County.

Salvation Army Angel Tree Program

If your family or a family you know is in need of gifts for the holidays, consider registering for the Salvation Angel Tree Program. Applications are being accepted through this Friday, September 22. See the flyers below (Spanish and English) for more info.