Dear Families, 

It has been a week of learning for me. I have enjoyed reconnecting with some of my previous students and meeting new students and staff. It is evident to me that there is so much potential at our school and I am looking forward to working with each of you, your students, and our staff to ensure Centennial Campus Center for Innovation Magnet Middle School is a great place to work and learn. 

I appreciate those of you who have reached out to provide feedback or ask questions regarding my priorities at Centennial. I am committed to engaging with each of you and ensuring that (1) high expectations are in place for students and staff, (2) all students have access to an excellent and safe schooling experience, and that (3) we put steps in place to build a vision for Centennial’s continued positive image in the school and community. 

As you may be aware, I am planning to be present at our Scavenger Hunt event on September 19 on NC State’s Centennial Campus. This is an opportunity for me to connect with you all and to hear about your priorities for our school. If you are unable to attend and you would like to schedule time to chat, please reach out via e-mail. 

Initial shifts that have been prioritized are increased adult presence and supervision during transitions, eliminating the use of cell phones during school hours, and compliance with directives. We know that if we begin to address these priorities, it will yield many positive outcomes for our school. I am asking each of you for your help to support the following expectations that will begin at Centennial this week:

Phones

School is not a time for students to be on their personal devices. The “job” of a middle schooler is to learn and that is impeded by easy access to their phones. Students will be expected to turn off their cell phones and place the phones in their bookbags during school hours. If students are seen with their phones out, they will be asked by an adult to put the phone away in the proper location. If the student does not comply with this directive, an administrator will place the phone in a secured location in the front office until the end of the day. Continued non-compliance with this directive will result in a parent/guardian being asked to pick the phone up from the building and a consequence in accordance with WCPSS Student Code of Conduct policies. If a parent or guardian needs to get an urgent message to a student, that should be communicated to the front office,

Compliance with Directives

Our teachers have the responsibility to create an environment that is conducive to learning; this requires us to have to redirect certain behaviors. Teachers will provide up to two redirections to students. Continued disruptions or non-compliance with directives will result in administration being called to the classroom and issuing a consequence in accordance with WCPSS Student Code of Conduct policies. 

Attendance and Participation in Sports

In collaboration with Dillard Drive Middle School, students will not be able to attend or participate in sports if they receive ISS or OSS. It is a privilege to engage in our athletic programs and experiences. 

‘Your support with our priorities will make a world of difference as we work to increase student engagement and academic achievement. Please reach out if you have questions or concerns. Thank you for choosing Centennial Campus Center for Innovation Magnet Middle School! 

Sincerely, 

Jesse Gore

Principal