HMS is an authorized International Baccalaureate Middle Years school.  All students enrolled at HMS are IB students.  The IB MYP program aims to facilitate maximum academic achievement, develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect as they become lifelong learners.

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IB Community Service Requirements and Volunteer Opportunities

Click here to view a student produced video about our IB World School.

HMS strongly encourages our students to continue their learning through the summer by reading a variety of books.  This year our summer reading requirements have changed.   We ask that students read one or more STEAM books from our recommended Summer Reading List and one or more SSYRA books.

Summer reading will count towards our school-wide 20 Book Challenge this coming school year.  Happy Reading!

STEAM Summer Reading List 

2018 2019 SSYRA List

The state of Florida requires proof on immunization on all students entering, repeating, or transferring into the 7th grade. Please call your child’s doctor or health department for details.

HMS is pleased to offer a free program that provides academic and personal enrichment opportunities, before-school, after-school, and during the summer.  

Hours are:

• Before school Monday through Thursday 8:10 a.m. - 9:10 a.m.
• After school on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 3:35 p.m. - 6:35 p.m.

21st Century Enrollment Packet 

Click here for more information. 

Click here to visit our Reading Corner for book recommendations and ways to encourage reading at home.

Just Take 20 (JT20) is a Florida initiative to improve student achievement in reading and literacy by recognizing that literacy begins at home!  JT20 gives parents an awareness of their essential role as well as knowledge and skill to deliver daily activities that promote literacy.

Beginning the 2018-2019 school year, Howard Middle School's Magnet Program will be expanded to the entire campus.  All students zoned for Howard Middle School will be a part of The HMS Magnet Program with the The International Baccalaureate (IB) and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, & Mathematics) focus.  Any student not zoned for HMS will be able to complete an online application during the next Lottery Window.  This will fall under the new Lottery Application System being implemented by MCPS.  To view more details and for the links to apply, please click on: School Choice and Magnet Programs. Thank you for your patience as we transition into our new and exciting program. Magnet Schools of America

Please keep in mind that the definition of a Magnet Student has evolved. Our entire campus is a Magnet School based upon the programs that we now offer - The International Baccalaureate (IB) and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, & Mathematics) programs. These programs are integrated into all of our classrooms; hence, all of our students are Magnet Students. Students who are eligible for advanced placement classes (formally known as Magnet Students under the AAIT Magnet Program) will still be eligible for Advanced Level classes based upon their state test scores and classroom performance. “What are Magnet Schools.” 

All HMS students must qualify for the Advanced Level classes.  This may be attained by scoring a 4 and/or a 5 on their FSA (state test scores), as well as holding A's and B's within all of their classes for the preceeding school year.  A FSA score of a 3 will also be considered if the Scale Score is within the higher end of the spectrum.  HMS has the ability to hybrid student schedules - Students may have different level courses based upon their abilities.  Students will be placed into course levels where they may experience their best educational successes. 

For our current students:  All of our current 6th or 7th grade students who are not zoned for HMS and who were previously accepted into HMS through the AAIT Magnet Program, will not need to reapply.  To continue attending HMS they must continue to have good attendance, maintain the required FSA Test scores, and have no discipline issues to stay in their Advanced Level Classes. 

2018-2019 School Supply List

A/B Day School Calendar

Bell Schedule

The HMS Student Handbook  contains our expectations for students. The handbook supplements information included in Marion County Public Schools’ Code of Student Conduct, and addresses topics such as dress code, attendance, and parent involvement.

Please take a moment to review our carline information and reminders and updates with your child to ensure the safety of all of our students and to keep the lines moving as quickly and safely as possible.

Click here for information about our Extended Day Program.    

Student potential cannot be achieved without strong community and parent support. Join us in educating our children by participating in the School Advisory Council and our Volunteer programs. 

Visit the Florida Standards Assessments portal for information about the FSA.

Parent’s FAQ on High School Credits taken in Middle School  

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Marion Virtual Summer School

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