October Newsletter:

October Theme:
Responsibility

October is all about taking ownership of your future. Whether you're setting academic goals, planning for college, or organizing your study habits, responsibility is the key to success.

Save the Date:



10/10 - FASFA Workshop (1-5p.m.)

10/13- No School


10/23- Pumpkin Patch Field Trip (4-6p.m.)


10/29- Coffee with the counselors (9-11p.m.)

News
Goal setting tips:
Break big goals into smaller manageable steps.
Write your goals down and review them weekly.
Celebrate small wins to stay motivated.

College and career readiness:
Responsibility means preparing for life after high school. This month, we're focusing on:
FASFA completion: Seniors don't miss the FASFA workshop on 10/10 to get help with your financial Aid applications.
College planning: start researching colleges, majors, and scholarship opportunities.
Organization and study skills

Being responsible also means managing your time and materials effectively. Try these strategies:
Use a planner or digital calendar to track assignments and deadlines.
keep your study space tidy and distraction-free.
Practice active study techniques like summarizing notes, teaching others, or using flashcards.

For questions Contact us at:
Board of Education:(304)-354-7011
Calhoun Gilmer Career Center: (304)-354-6151
Calhoun Middle/High School: (304)-354-6148
Pleasant Hill Elementary: (304)-354-6022
Arnoldsburg Elementary: (304)-655-8616
25 days ago, Communities/Schools Facilitator
October Newsletter
Free Application For Student Aid Workshop

October 10th @ CMHS 1:00-5:00 in the College & Career Room

Families are invited to come in and work with our partners at Glenville State University to get one on one help with completing their child's FAFSA. The FAFSA allows students to receive financial assistance to the college or Career and Technical Center of their choice through grants, scholarships, and loans.

Please bring your 2024 tax returns, and guardian/child social security numbers.

Please contact Ms. Sampson with any questions.

brsampson@k12.wv.us

304-354-6148 ext 214
27 days ago, Brandi Sampson
Calhoun Varsity Football is back at home taking on Buffalo tonight, October 3rd, for their Breast Cancer Awareness game! Kickoff 7pm. Come out and show your support for those who are battling, have battled or lost their battle to Breast Cancer and cheer on our Red Devils.
30 days ago, Whitney Butler
PINK OUT Game. Game day October 3rd. Kickoff 7pm at CMHS.
CMHS Students Gain Real-World Financial Skills Through “Get a Life” Simulation
For nearly 20 years, the West Virginia State Treasurer’s Office has brought personal financial education to life for middle/high school students across the state through its innovative Get a Life budget simulation.
The simulation places students in a future scenario where they’ve graduated high school and are working full-time jobs. Some have families, but all must manage monthly expenses like housing, transportation, food, and more. As they visit each station, students make purchasing decisions and learn how to balance needs versus wants.
One of the most impactful features of the simulation is the chance to “Level Up” by pursuing higher education. Students who choose to attend college or trade school see how increased education can lead to higher earnings and improved financial stability.
Local community volunteers play a vital role in guiding students through the stations, offering advice and sharing real-world perspectives. Their support helps students connect classroom learning to everyday life.
CMHS is proud to participate in this meaningful program that empowers students with essential financial literacy skills and prepares them for a successful future.
about 1 month ago, Communities/Schools Facilitator
Get A life financial skills for the real world at CMHS
Get A life financial skills for the real world at CMHS
Get A life financial skills for the real world at CMHS
Get A life financial skills for the real world at CMHS
Get A life financial skills for the real world at CMHS
Get A life financial skills for the real world at CMHS
Get A life financial skills for the real world at CMHS
Get A life financial skills for the real world at CMHS
Get A life financial skills for the real world at CMHS
Get A life financial skills for the real world at CMHS
  Get ready to dance the night away at Homecoming! The big night is Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the High School. The dance floor is open to all high school students (9-12) from 7–10 PM. Tickets are $15 per couple or $10 for singles. Sign-ups are from September 29–October 10 during high school lunch in the commons. Out-of-school guest forms are available in Mrs. Batton’s room between classes (E212), the admin office, or at the sign-up table. Out-of-school guest forms must be turned in by October 10 for approval!
    Dust off your dancin’ shoes...we can’t wait to see you all dressed up and ready to hit the dance floor! (Photo information will be given at a later date) REMEMBER, this is a formal dance—so leave the jeans, boots, and casual wear at home and bring your best looks!

🎉 Calhoun High School Homecoming Week! 🎉
Join us as we celebrate Victory Over Valley with a fun-filled Spirit Week! Here’s the schedule:
📅 Monday, October 13 – No School
Sleep in and recharge. Enjoy your day off!
📅 Tuesday, October 14 – Tired Tuesday
Wear your pajamas, hoodies, and cozy socks! Don’t forget blankets, slippers, and your favorite sleeping accessories.
📅 Wednesday, October 15 – What Do You Meme It’s Wednesday
Dress as your favorite meme and bring the laughs to school!
📅 Thursday, October 16 – Country vs. Country Club
Kick up the dust or polish up your style—show your pride!
📅 Friday – Red Devil Pride!
Paint the school red, black, and white! Wear school colors, shirts, hats, face paint, and spirit gear. Let’s finish the week strong!
⚠️ Reminder: Outfits must be school-appropriate. Students are not allowed to wear masks or hoods.
about 1 month ago, Dana Ferrell
Spirit week flyer depicting the dress up dates for each day of the week.
🎉 Huge Congrats to Landon Hawkins!🎉 We’re excited to announce that Landon Hawkins a student at CMHS, is the lucky winner of a FREE lunch from Miller's Kwik Stop for the month of September. 🍔🥤 All students who had perfect attendance (or missed only one day) during September were entered into the Wheel of Names drawing, and Landon's name came out on top! 🏆 Great job, Landon, and a big thank you to Miller's Kwik Stop for supporting our students! Keep up the awesome work, everyone – here's to staying on track for another month of success. 💪🎓 #CMHS #PerfectAttendance #MillerKwikStop #StudentSuccess #WinningBig
about 1 month ago, Communities/Schools Facilitator
attendance winner for the month of September
📣 Calhoun County Families — Keep an Eye Out! 📣
These colorful magnets are coming home with your child this week! 🧲 They're packed with all the key dates for the 2025–2026 school year — including breaks, parent-teacher conferences, grading periods, and no-school days. Stick it on your fridge so you never miss a beat!
✅ ADA Compliance Note: For accessibility, here is a text version of the magnet content:
🎓 Calhoun County Schools – Missing School = Missing Out
📅 2025–2026 School Year Highlights
Breaks:
🍂 Fall Break: Nov 24–28
❄️ Winter Break: Dec 23–Jan 2
🌸 Spring Break: Mar 30–Apr 3
🏁 Last Day of School: May 29
No School for Students:
Oct 13 – Professional Learning Day
Nov 10 – OS Day
Nov 11 – Veteran’s Day
Dec 22 – Professional Learning Day
Jan 2 – Professional Learning Day
Jan 19 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Feb 13 – OS Day
Feb 16 – Professional Learning Day
Apr 6 – Professional Learning Day
May 11 – OS Day
May 12 – Election Day
May 25 – Memorial Day
Parent-Teacher Conferences:
🏫 Elementary: Oct 28 & Mar 24
🏫 CMHS: Oct 30 & Mar 26
Grading Periods:
Semester 1:
• Term 1: Aug 14–Oct 16
• Term 2: Oct 17–Dec 22
Semester 2:
• Term 3: Jan 5–Mar 17
• Term 4: Mar 18–May 29
🎓 Graduation – Calhoun High School: May 22, 2026
about 1 month ago, Communities/Schools Facilitator
Attendance magnets for 2025/2026
Volunteer / Megan's Law Training
📍 CMHS Cafeteria
🗓 Wednesday, October 1st
🕔 5:00 PM
about 1 month ago, Communities/Schools Facilitator
Volunteer Training/ Meghans Law CMHS October 1st 2025 at 5:00pm
📣 Calhoun County Schools Student Services Team is Here for You! 💙
We are proud to partner with Communities In Schools, Westbrook Health Services, Minnie Hamilton Health System, and Brother Up to support our students and families.

🛠️ Our Services Include:

Attendance Support
Social Emotional Learning & Developmental Guidance
Individual & Group Counseling
Preventive Education
Behavioral Analysis & Plans
Advocacy
Intervention & Trainings
FAFSA Assistance
Linkage & Referrals
Intellectual & Academic Testing
Health Care
Suicide Prevention & Erin's Law
Clothing, Food & Hygiene Closet
Parent Trainings
Prevention Education
Volunteer Training

📞 Important Numbers:

Emergency: 911
MHHS Behavioral Health: 304-354-9244
Westbrook Health Services: 304-927-5200
Children’s Crisis Line: 1-800-579-5844
State Police (Report Incidents): 304-558-7778
WV Children’s Crisis & Referral Line (HELP4WV): 1-844-HELP4WV (1-844-435-7498)
Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline: 1-800-352-6513
Suicide & Crisis Support (24/7): Call or text 988
💻 Online Resource for Parents/Caregivers: https://parentalguidance.org

👥 Meet Our Team:

Jeannie Bennett-Yoak, Assistant Superintendent/COO Student Services – jlbennett@k12.wv.us
Dr. James Mullins, Psychologist – jemullins@k12.wv.us
Patricia Homberg, Dean of Students, CMHS – phomberg@k12.wv.us
Cheri White, Executive Secretary – cheri.white@k12.wv.us
Brittany Parsons, Coordinator of Student Services/Lead CIS Facilitator – brittany.parsons@k12.wv.us
Destiney Montgomery, Psychosocial Coordinator at MHHS – destiney.montgomery@k12.wv.us
Amy Cottrell, Counselor – amy.b.cottrell@k12.wv.us
Brandi Hardway-Sampson, Counselor – brsampson@k12.wv.us
Kevin Boak, CIS Facilitator at CMHS – kboak@k12.wv.us
Carrie Collins, CIS Facilitator at PHE – carrie.collins@k12.wv.us
Jessica Hardway, CIS Facilitator at AES – jessica.hardway@k12.wv.us
Jo Lynn Wilson, CIS Facilitator at CGCC – jlnwilso@k12.wv.us
Nekka Poore, Title I Aide at AES – nekka.poore@k12.wv.us
Tiffany Mace, Title I Aide at PHE – tiffany.mace@k12.wv.us
Trudi Anderson, Nurse BSN RN NCSN – tm.anderson@k12.wv.us
Autumn Lilly, Nurse RN CCHP – autumn.lilly@k12.wv.us

💬 We’re here to help. Reach out anytime!
about 1 month ago, Dana Ferrell
Flyer depicting all the services offered by Calhoun County School Student Services Team
Flyer depicting all the contact information for the Calhoun County Schools Student Services Team
Attention Senior Parents! It's time to start preparing for your child's future. In partnership with the Calhoun Family Resource Network and Glenville State University, we will be offering a Free FAFSA workshop at the Calhoun County FRN.
Tuesday, October 28th, 1:00-6:00, GSU will be available to assist families in completing their child's Free Application for Student Aid. Completing the FAFSA allows students to apply for financial aid, scholarships, and grants.
about 1 month ago, Brandi Sampson
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The Marshall University Communication Disorder Department is excited to announce upcoming observation opportunities at the Marshall Speech and Hearing Center. If you would like to observe a speech language pathologist or learn more about the field come in and observe.
Also, applications for the Communication Disorder Department’s early assurance program for high school students opens September 15. We are excited to find the best and brightest future speech language pathologists. This program provides conditional acceptance to the Communication Disorder Master’s Degree program for select high school seniors.
about 1 month ago, Brandi Sampson
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Please join us for our Parent Family Engagement night at the Pumpkin Patch.

🎃 Join Us for a Fun-Filled Family Night at the Pumpkin Patch! 🎃
Date: 10/23/25
Time: 4:00-6:00 pm
Location: Calhoun Middle High School Baseball Field

We’re excited to invite all families to a special evening of fall fun, learning, and connection! Come explore the pumpkin patch and enjoy a variety of engaging booths and activities designed for all ages:
Pumpkin Patch Family Engagement Event
🍂 Story Walk – Enjoy the telling of “Skeletons for Dinner”
🎃 Pumpkin Picking – Choose your perfect pumpkin to take home
🍪 Snacks & Drinks – Refreshments for the whole family
👻 Costume Contest – Dress to impress for a chance to win!
🎯 Games & Door Prizes – Fun challenges and exciting giveaways
🎨 Art Station – Get creative with seasonal crafts
💬 Social Emotional Learning Booth – Activities to support your child’s well-being
📚 Informational Vendors – Resources for families and students
📈 Attendance Session – Learn how attendance impacts student success

about 1 month ago, Communities/Schools Facilitator
Pumpkin Patch family engagement event on October 23rd 2025 at CMHS from 4-6pm
Coffee with the Counselors at CMHS 9/24/25 @ 9:00 am.

TOPIC: Parent Guidance. org

50 Underwood Circle Drive, Mount Zion, WV 26151

brsampson@k12.wv.us
amy.b.cottrell@k12.wv.us
about 1 month ago, Brandi Sampson
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Join Calhoun County Schools and our community partners in celebrating a love for reading with the beloved classic, "Charlotte's Web" family read aloud.

Request a book and family activity calendar using the Forms link below. Students and families can build a love for reading and make precious memories by reading a few chapters together each day.
https://forms.office.com/r/SN1WtWrr1B

On Saturday October 18, 2025 join in on a fun, literacy filled day at the Calhoun County Park from 12:00-3:00. There will be a story walk and many activities for our families to enjoy.


Image: Book cover that contains author, EB White's name. Young girl and pig.
about 1 month ago, Brandi Sampson
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A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Generous Community On behalf of Calhoun Middle-High School, we would like to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone in our community who has donated prom and homecoming dresses this year. Your generosity is truly appreciated, and your support makes a huge difference in the lives of our students. A special thank you goes to Linda Bowling at New Beginnings for your gracious donation of beautiful dresses. Your kindness is inspiring, and we are so grateful for your contribution to making these special occasions memorable for our students. We are lucky to be part of such a giving and caring community. Your support helps ensure that every student has the opportunity to shine at their prom and homecoming, regardless of circumstances. Thank you again for your continued generosity!
about 1 month ago, Communities/Schools Facilitator
photo of dress donations from Linda bowling at new beginnings
Calhoun Middle/High School Cross Country team hosted their annual Calhoun Invitational on Saturday, September 20th at the Calhoun County Park. All CMHS runners placed top 20 or set a new PR on this course. Congratulations to all of our CMHS Cross Country runners and coaches. Your hard work is paying off! Photos courtesy of Clear Blue Skies
about 1 month ago, Whitney Butler
Paige Sterns
Zac Smith
Eli Ferrell
Gabi Smith
Khloe Cobbett
Carissa Sands
Brooke Tingler
Vada Barnhart
Levi Sillaman
Mackenzie Tingler
Calhoun High School students represented the CMHS Athletic Dept in Charleston, WV today at the WVSSAC Chick-Fil-A Leadership Summit. The Leadership Summit is designed to encourage students athletes to dream, plan and achieve their goals while creating the best versions of themselves. Students representing Calhoun were Senior, Faith McClain, Junior, Paige Sterns, Sophomore, Gavin Hicks and Freshman, Trevor Mayle. These four student athletes were selectees based off their leadership skills both in athletics and in the classroom.
about 2 months ago, Whitney Butler
Students representing Calhoun were Senior, Faith McClain, Junior, Paige Sterns, Sophomore, Gavin Hicks and Freshman, Trevor Mayle.
It was a great weekend to be a Red Devil! Friday night CHS Football kicked off the weekend bringing home the win over Richwood and officially breaking the streak. Saturday our CMHS Marching Band kept the momentum going at Spring Valley High School, competing in the Spring Valley High School Sound in the Valley band competition. Our Marching Red Devils brought home

1st place color-guard
3rd place field commander
2nd place percussion
And 3rd place Overall Band

Then to finish out the weekend our CMHS Cross Country teams competed in the Chik-fil-A Cross Country Invitational. Middle school runners Mark Plumby and Brooke Tingler placed top 40.

Congratulations to all our CMHS Red Devils and good luck this week in your upcoming contests!
about 2 months ago, Whitney Butler
CHS Football in game huddle.
CHS Varsity cheerleaders at Richwood
CMHS Marching band receives awards
CMHS Cross Country runners
🎉 Huge Congrats to Faith McClain! 🎉 We’re excited to announce that Faith McClain, a student at CMHS, is the lucky winner of a FREE lunch from Miller's Kwik Stop for the month of August! 🍔🥤 All students who had perfect attendance (or missed only one day) during August were entered into the Wheel of Names drawing, and Faith’s name came out on top! 🏆 Great job, Faith, and a big thank you to Miller's Kwik Stop for supporting our students! Keep up the awesome work, everyone – here's to staying on track for another month of success. 💪🎓 #CMHS #PerfectAttendance #MillerKwikStop #StudentSuccess #WinningBig
about 2 months ago, Communities/Schools Facilitator
picture of Cmhs student for winning perfect attendance lunch
Start of Year Family Engagement Survey, 2025-2026

Your child’s school and Save the Children would like feedback regarding how well the school welcomed and communicated with families. (Your school received support from Save the Children this past year.) Filling out this survey will help your school and Save the Children learn what worked for you and your family and what we could do better. The information you share may help us serve your community better in the future and may help us get resources to provide your community more programs. We believe the risk from filling out this 5-minute survey to be very small. We will do everything we can to keep any information identifying you confidential. If you have any further questions about this survey, please contact the U.S. Program’s Monitoring and Evaluation Team at USPDataReports@savechildren.org. Completing this survey is voluntary and there is no penalty to you for not completing the survey.


If you have more than one child at this school, please answer with your youngest child in mind.

English: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KVBJBCF
Spanish: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LV7TB6P
2 months ago, Dana Ferrell