
In honor of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, Elizabethtown Middle School would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to School Resource Officer Melvin for all that he does to keep our students, staff, and school community safe, supported, and smiling each day.
We are grateful for his dedication, positive presence, and commitment to building strong relationships with our students. ETMS appreciates you! 👮♂️🐾
#LawEnforcementAppreciationDay #ThankYouOfficer #ETMSStrong #CougarPride #SchoolSafety
Kylie T has shown remarkable growth and consistently demonstrates the ETMS Habits of Truly Effective People. She shows strong responsibility by staying punctual with assignments and maintaining solid academic performance. Kylie has developed a more positive attitude and now works to her full potential while building respectful relationships with her teachers. Her growth reflects perseverance, accountability, and a determination to succeed.
Joshua M models the ETMS Habits of Truly Effective People daily through his leadership as Beta Club Vice President, his helpfulness toward others, and his strong academic performance since day one. He demonstrates effective communication by using his voice with confidence and initiative, while consistently bringing positivity into every classroom. Joshua’s steady excellence and leadership make him a standout example for his peers.
#cougarpride #learnerstoleaders
Jayden G has shown tremendous growth this quarter and consistently models the Habits of Truly Effective People. He demonstrates increased responsibility and focus in his academic work and is always helpful to others. Jayden communicates effectively by asking for help when needed and expressing appreciation to his teachers. His willingness to support classmates, positive attitude, and eagerness to succeed reflect strong character and meaningful progress.
Estrella R consistently demonstrates the ETMS Habits of Truly Effective People through her quiet leadership, respect, and strong work ethic. She shows outstanding responsibility by completing all tasks asked of her and maintaining A/B Honor Roll status with nearly perfect attendance. Estrella works well with others, demonstrating helpfulness and cooperation in the classroom. She and her family actively partner with teachers, reflecting strong communication and a shared commitment to her success. As a member of Beta Club, Estrella continues to show determination, respect, and a genuine eagerness to succeed.
#cougarpride #learnerstoleaders
Elizabethtown Middle School's Seventh Grade Students of the Month for December!
Colt Y consistently demonstrates the qualities of a highly effective ETMS student and leader. He shows strong responsibility by completing assignments with care and maintaining focus on his academic goals. Colt puts first things first, working diligently and independently without distracting others. He brings a positive attitude to the classroom and demonstrates respect toward both peers and adults. His leadership, strong character, and positive behavior make him a well-deserving Student of the Month.
Shelby B also embodies the standards of a highly effective ETMS student through her diligence, focus, and commitment to excellence. She consistently demonstrates responsibility by taking ownership of her learning and completing her work with pride. Shelby puts first things first by prioritizing her academic success and maintaining focus on her goals. Her respectful attitude and calm presence contribute to a positive classroom environment, and she is always helpful to her classmates. Shelby’s leadership shines through her actions, making her a true role model within the ETMS community.
#cougarpride #learnerstoleaders
Elizabethtown Middle School Eighth Grade Students of the Month for December
Carlos R demonstrates Habits 1, 3, 4, and 7 through his strong leadership and advocacy. Carlos consistently speaks up for himself and others by respectfully communicating with teachers about matters that impact the learning environment. He shows genuine respect toward both teachers and peers and is an active member of Band and Beta Club. Carlos and his family also demonstrate ongoing support for Elizabethtown Middle School and our school community, making him a positive role model for others.
Cadence M demonstrates Habits 1, 3, and 7 through her responsibility, perseverance, and commitment to growth. Cadence builds strong, respectful relationships with her teachers and peers and consistently shows self-control and resilience. She learns from her mistakes, takes ownership of her learning, and holds herself accountable for her actions and progress. Cadence’s positive mindset and dedication exemplify what it means to be a truly effective learner.
#Cougarpride #Learnerstoleaders
🧡🖤 STAFF HIGHLIGHTS 🖤🧡
We are proud to recognize Coach Larry Williams for always going above and beyond for our students and school community.
As the Athletic Director and Physical Education teacher at Elizabethtown Middle School, Coach Williams shows unwavering dedication to our students —supporting them both on and off the field. From organizing athletics and events to mentoring students and promoting teamwork, sportsmanship, and Cougar pride, his commitment never goes unnoticed.
We are also excited to recognize Tonia Knepper, our Cafeteria Manager at Elizabethtown Middle School!
Ms. Knepper strives each day to ensure our students receive nutritious meals in a welcoming and caring environment. Her dedication, organization, and positive attitude help keep our cafeteria running smoothly while making students feel valued and cared for.
Thank you, Mr. Williams and Ms. Knepper, for your hard work, commitment, and the heart you bring to ETMS every single day. We appreciate you! 🐾
#CougarPride #ETMSStrong #AboveAndBeyond #StudentFocused
Congratulations to Tammy Bolden, Science teacher at Elizabethtown Middle School, another BCS Bright Ideas Education Grant recipient!
Four County EMC presented a $1,542 grant award to teacher Tammy Bolden. Four County EMC is proud to support educators whose innovative projects enrich classroom instruction across a variety of disciplines. Ms. Bolden’s plans for her grant will enhance her science classroom with even more interactive STEM learning.
This year, Four County EMC awarded more than $40,000 in Bright Ideas grant funding to teachers across our service territory. To learn more, visit https://www.fourcty.org/community/bright-ideas/.
We can't wait to see this project come to life!
#WeAreBCS #LearnerstoLeaders #Cougarpride







Due to extreme cold temperatures and a forecasted wind chill in the single digits Monday morning, we are modifying our schedule for the safety of our students and staff.
Monday, December 15 will now operate on a two-hour delay for both students and staff and school will dismiss at the regular time Monday afternoon.
Please note: We were originally scheduled for an early release day on Monday. That has been changed to a two-hour delay and dismissal will be at our regular time.
Tuesday through Friday of next week will continue as scheduled early release days.
🧣🧤Please ensure your child dresses warmly for the cold weather and if you have any questions, please contact your child's school.
Thank you and stay warm!
✨ Students of the Month: Brooklyn O. & Carlos R.
These two students exemplify our core values every day and continue to shine as leaders among their peers.
✨ Staff of the Month: Mrs. Freeman & Ms. Wright
We are grateful for their dedication, passion, and unwavering support of our students.
Congratulations to all of our honorees! Thank you for representing Elizabethtown Middle School with Cougar Pride! 🐾🧡
#LearnersToLeaders #Cougarpride

🎉 Congratulations to Alayah T.! 🖊️
We are thrilled to announce that Alayah is a recipient of the VFW Patriot’s Pen of NC, District 5 Post 8062 Essay Contest! Her hard work, thoughtful writing, and dedication truly shine through.
Alayah represented Elizabethtown Middle School with excellence, and we could not be more proud of her accomplishment. 🌟📚
Please join us in celebrating this outstanding Cougar! 🧡🐾🖤
#LearnerstoLeaders #Cougarpride
Your experiences, ideas, and concerns help guide our decisions. Please take a moment to complete our parent survey today.
Together, we grow stronger.
Beginning today, December 3, 2025, our school is administering the Measurable Results Assessment (MRA). Students and staff will complete this survey on campus, but we also need about 5 minutes of your time, as parents, to make our school an even better place for students and families.
Please copy/paste the link below before December 17, 2025, to anonymously complete this short survey based on the experiences you and your child have at our school.
https://www.leaderinme.com/s/elizabethtown-middle-school/families

This week they donated grocery baskets filled with traditional Thanksgiving fixings and a turkey for some special Elizabethtown Middle School families. Their generosity and kindness remind our students and community that they are loved and supported.
Thank you, Baldwin Branch Church, for being such a wonderful partner and blessing to our school community! 🙏🧺🥧
#Cougarpride

Congratulations to Gaving from Elizabethtown Middle School!
Gavin serves as the President of the EMS Elementary Beta Club and is also a 5th Grade Ambassador and remains committed to academic excellence. He truly embodies the 7 Habits and demonstrates exceptional leadership—Gavin is a role model for us all.
Join us in celebrating Gavin's outstanding contributions to our school community! 👏
