CMS "rocks" the test was one of several different themes of test preparation at Cheatham Middle School.  Every year, Cheatham Middle School celebrates academics and test preparation much in the same way that they do for sporting events.  On Friday, April 22nd, Cheatham Middle School held an academic pep rally, and a hallway decorative contest.  The events were designed to raise enthusiasm and student awareness regarding the significance of the state assessments.  "It's a great way to build excitement for learning, and more importantly showcasing what you've learned," said Dean of Students David Hooper.  Cheatham Middle School students from all grade levels took to the hallways to demonstrate their excitement.  It was apparent for any student walking around CMS that the entire atmosphere of the building was geared towards the test.  The pictures below are an exhibition of how CMS students built up enthusiasm around this year's assessment.   

“It is the goal of the Cheatham County School District to empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue post-secondary educational opportunities,” said Interim Director of Communications David Hooper.  The Cheatham County School District transported 1,000 freshman and sophomore students from all three high schools to 12 different colleges on Tuesday, April 19, 2016.
 
The event afforded 9th and 10th grade students a chance to experience post-secondary educational opportunities in a meaningful way.  The post-secondary institutions ranged from specialized schools such as The Art Institute of Tennessee and Daymar College in Clarksville to more traditional schools such as Cumberland University and American Baptist College.
 
Chief academic officer, Dr. Tara Watson said, “Two years ago the Cheatham County School District decided to provide all freshman and sophomores with the opportunity to visit a post-secondary institution, so they would be aware of the possibilities awaiting them after high school.  With the inception of Tennessee Promise, all students can continue their education after graduating, and we feel strongly that it is our responsibility to expose them to all available avenues.  Over the past two years, this would not have been possible without Pam Day, Executive Assistant, Cal Blacker and our transportation department, as well as our High School administrators and faculty.”
 
In addition, students were able to visit Lincoln College, Argosy, TCAT-Clarksville, David Lipscomb, Welch College, TCAT-Dickson, and even Nashville School of Law.

       On April 9, 2016, The Cheatham County School District hosted their annual Kindergarten Round-Up.  The Kindergarten round-up affords parents and kids an opportunity to tour the school in which they're zoned, meet the principal, and the Kindergarten teachers.  In addition, upcoming Kindergarten students are able to obtain information that will help prepare them for the start of school in August.  The Kindergarten round up was hosted by all six elementary schools, and boasted a wide array of fun activities in addition to informational booths.  "Looks like we had a great turn out and everyone had fun," said Pre-K Supervisor Emily Staggs.  You can check out some of the fun from last Saturday in the pictures below.  Students must be 5 years old on or before August 15, 2016 in order to enroll in Kindergarten. 

       The annual Cheatham County School District Special Olympics were held on April 15, 2016.  It was a beautiful day and the weather fully cooperated.  Due to the nice weather, all participants were afforded an exciting opportunity to compete, take in some sun, and enjoy an all around amazing experience.  Jen Copeland, who is directly responsible for coordinating the event offered the following statement:  

"The athletes brought home much more than sunburn, they brought home many medals and many new friendships. This event is hosted by the Harpeth High School Best Buddy Club;  they were instrumental in pulling this event off.  These high school students served as Best Buddies for many athletes as well as worked the different events.  We were also fortunate to have many community volunteers help this year such as Heritage Bank, Cheatham County Animal Control, AO Smith, and the Disney Corporation.  Many past Harpeth graduates also came back to help out.  This day is just as important to them as it is to us.  It was great to see friendships made and the wonderful smiles on all the volunteers and athletes faces.  Thanks to everyone who came out and supported our athletes.  The concession stand was a huge success.  We now look forward to the state summer games tournament held at Lipscomb on May 20th and the 21st.  Cheatham County takes a unified volleyball team, unified and traditional bocce team, power-lifting team as well as a track and field team. Anyone who is interested in getting more information on how to become a volunteer or to make a monetary donation, please call Jennifer Copeland at 615-426-4548 or Dennis Salisbury at 615-405-9273." 

The slideshow below depicts the enthusiasm of the day!

On April 9th, Cheatham County Kids and Sycamore High School hosted an Autism Awareness Event that drew in the masses from all across Cheatham County and beyond.  Many businesses, government entities, and educational institutions set up booths.  Local government leaders were in attendance along with other stakeholders from across the community.  This event boasted numerous activities, games, food and even a dance performance.  The Cheatham County School District is proud to have partaken in such a fun and informative event.      

            The Cheatham County School District hosted their Pre-K Carnival on April 2, 2016.  It was a very impressive turnout as people showed up in abundance to register their children.  The carnival had numerous booths set up for parents and children that were both informative as well as entertaining.    "The children had a great time at the centers, and I especially want to thank all our community sponsors that graciously gave their time. We could not have accomplished such a successful event without the support of our community stakeholders," said Pre-K Supervisor Emily Staggs.  The Pre-K Carnival boasted plenty of entertainment for small children and afforded them hands on experiences at various centers.  The carnival was centered around a literacy focus, and children were given free books as a result of attending.  "We of course always want to promote reading, so we gave away books, and refreshments to all who attended," commented Staggs.  The Cheatham County School District will be accepting applications to attend PreK at all Elementary Schools as well as the Central Office.  If you have not yet applied it is not too late to do so.