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

Special Announcements:

The second Lottery Application Window has closed on April 30, 2018.  There will be one more opportunity to apply if you were not able to apply during the first two Lottery Application Windows.  Please watch this website for details. 

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 Lotter 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 placement classes based upon their state test scores and classroom performance. “What are Magnet Schools.”

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 Placement Classes.  Please contact Steven Hottenstein, Magent / IB-MYP Coordinator if you have any questions.  

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.

+ Read more 

IB Community Service Requirements and Volunteer Opportunities

Any student that did not submit their Student Elective Registration form for the upcoming school year may do so at this time. 

Links for each of the forms are shown below:

Upcoming 6th Grade Students Elective Registration Form

Upcoming 7th Grade Students Elective Registration Form

Upcoming 8th Grade Students Elective Registration Form

Advanced Elective Registration Form for upcoming 7th & 8th Grade Students

2017-2018 A/B Day School Calendar

 2017-2018 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.    

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.

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. 

Click here for information about FREE academic enrichment opportunities for all HMS students before and after school.

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

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

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

+ Read more

Marion Virtual Summer School

+ Read more