Welcome to James Madison Middle School: FAQs

JAMES MADISON MIDDLE SCHOOL: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Transitioning to middle school is a major milestone, and we know that both scholars and families often have a mix of excitement and "first-day jitters." To help you navigate this new chapter with confidence, we’ve gathered everything you need to know right here. Whether you’re curious about how to master your locker combination, where to find your elective classes, or how the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) works, this FAQ is your ultimate roadmap. We are thrilled to welcome you to the James Madison family—let’s make this your best year yet!

How to use this guide:

To make finding information easier, we have organized the most common questions into three key areas:

• Logistics & Life: Lockers, schedules, and school supplies.
• Academics & IB: Understanding your courses and the IB MYP framework.
• Staying Connected: How to use ParentVUE and stay in the loop with The Cougar Corner.

Mastering Your Locker

Your locker is your home base at JMMS! To keep our hallways moving and our classrooms focused, we follow a simple "Locker Logic" routine:

• Timing is Everything: Each team has a dedicated locker window. You'll visit your locker to gear up before Mod 1 and to swap out supplies during Mod 6.
• The "Clear Bag" Rule: While bookbags and oversized bags must stay securely in your locker during the day, you are welcome to carry a clear tote or clear bookbag to your classrooms for your essentials.

Plan Ahead: To stay on time for class, only retrieve your belongings during your section's specified locker breaks

Early Dismissal Procedures & Expectations

To ensure the safety of all scholars and a smooth transition to our end-of-day operations, please note our daily early dismissal policy:

• 3:15 PM Cut-Off: Early dismissals (parent pick-ups) end promptly at 3:15 PM.
• "No-Dismissal" Window: Students will not be dismissed between 3:15 PM and our regular dismissal time of 4:15 PM.
• Why? This 60-minute window is critical for staging buses, coordinating after-school transitions, and ensuring every scholar is accounted for.

We kindly ask that you plan any appointments or early pick-ups accordingly to arrive before 3:15 PM. We appreciate your partnership in keeping JMMS safe and organized!