HUGE congratulations to Mr. Bowden for earning our very first Parent Shout-Out of the school year! 💙💛
Our Viking teachers go above and beyond every single day, and we love seeing them recognized!
Want to celebrate a teacher who made a difference for your student? Parents and guardians can submit shout-outs weekly through the link in Dr. Weidle's Viking Newsletter.
Missed the newsletter? No problem! You can drop your shout-out directly using the link here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSffST3eED3eY3LQco0phyMSFeyJyuwjTMTymH-tomtqnOQOrQ/viewform
Our Viking teachers go above and beyond every single day, and we love seeing them recognized!
Want to celebrate a teacher who made a difference for your student? Parents and guardians can submit shout-outs weekly through the link in Dr. Weidle's Viking Newsletter.
Missed the newsletter? No problem! You can drop your shout-out directly using the link here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSffST3eED3eY3LQco0phyMSFeyJyuwjTMTymH-tomtqnOQOrQ/viewform
Last call for tax free and free delivery on orders! Gear up and show off your Viking spirit! 🛡️✨
Grab official HHMS merch—including t-shirts (solid, glow-in-the-dark, & tie-dye), sweatshirts, hoodies, cozy blankets, windbags, trucker hats, and insulated tumblers!
Tax-Free & Free Shipping to HHMS! Order by September 21st to skip the tax and shipping fees shown on the order sheet.
How to Order:
Online: MyPaymentsPlus
In-Person: Cash or check (payable to Hamilton Holmes Middle School)
Note: Orders placed after Sept 21st will be sold via a separate link with tax and shipping fees added.
Get your orders in today! 🎒🍂
🧪 Mixing Math, Science & Problem-Solving! 🎨
Our 8th graders put their precision skills to the test in the lab today! Students measured exact volumes of colorful liquids, mixed them together, and calculated what the final volume and custom shade should be in each test tube.
The learning didn't stop when the mixing was over. Afterward, students analyzed their results, reflected on the purpose of the experiment, and put on their detective hats to troubleshoot any discrepancies between their predicted and actual measurements. 🔬✨
From measuring liquid volume with a graduated cylinder to investigating sources of error, these young scientists are mastering the scientific method!
Our 8th graders put their precision skills to the test in the lab today! Students measured exact volumes of colorful liquids, mixed them together, and calculated what the final volume and custom shade should be in each test tube.
The learning didn't stop when the mixing was over. Afterward, students analyzed their results, reflected on the purpose of the experiment, and put on their detective hats to troubleshoot any discrepancies between their predicted and actual measurements. 🔬✨
From measuring liquid volume with a graduated cylinder to investigating sources of error, these young scientists are mastering the scientific method!
Smile — it’s Picture Day! 😄📸
Fall Picture Day: Sept 25, 2026.
Order at mylifetouch.com with Picture Day ID: EVTQD7DZF. Order by 9/25 (midnight) for FREE shipping — after that, orders are online only. Prefer cash/check? Send the completed flyer with your child on Picture Day. Need a flyer? Pick one up in the SRC.
Reminder: no hats, hoods, or headphones.
Fall Picture Day: Sept 25, 2026.
Order at mylifetouch.com with Picture Day ID: EVTQD7DZF. Order by 9/25 (midnight) for FREE shipping — after that, orders are online only. Prefer cash/check? Send the completed flyer with your child on Picture Day. Need a flyer? Pick one up in the SRC.
Reminder: no hats, hoods, or headphones.
Digging into the details—literally! 🌱
Ms. Verona's Agriculture students headed outdoors to collect soil samples from the back fields and the inner courtyard, putting our soil science units into real-world action. But the unexpected star of the afternoon? A rosemary bush hiding out in the courtyard!
Nothing beats watching students connect classroom concepts to hands-on experiences (and getting a little sensory bonus along the way).
Ms. Verona's Agriculture students headed outdoors to collect soil samples from the back fields and the inner courtyard, putting our soil science units into real-world action. But the unexpected star of the afternoon? A rosemary bush hiding out in the courtyard!
Nothing beats watching students connect classroom concepts to hands-on experiences (and getting a little sensory bonus along the way).
The HHMS TILT club played their first game of "Viking TILT Trivia!" Students answer questions related to science, history, HHMS teachers/staff, and pop culture. TILT mentors model game-playing skills and appropriate behavior related to teamwork and winning vs. losing. Way to go, TILT club!!
From keeping our network running smoothly to troubleshooting at a moment’s notice, our IT professionals, Information System Manager, and IT Director work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our entire district connected and secure.
Today on #ITProDay, we celebrate the dedicated professionals who empower our teachers, support our students, and power our education every single day. Modern learning wouldn't be possible without your dedication, expertise, and endless patience. Thank you for all that you do for King William County Public Schools every day!
Today on #ITProDay, we celebrate the dedicated professionals who empower our teachers, support our students, and power our education every single day. Modern learning wouldn't be possible without your dedication, expertise, and endless patience. Thank you for all that you do for King William County Public Schools every day!
No sunlight, no problem? ☀️🌱 Mrs. Previs’ science class is about to find out! They're putting their hypotheses to the test with a hands-on experiment! Stay tuned for the results to see if their plant will grow without sunlight! 🧪✨
Gear up and show off your Viking spirit! 🛡️✨
Grab official HHMS merch—including t-shirts (solid, glow-in-the-dark, & tie-dye), sweatshirts, hoodies, cozy blankets, windbags, trucker hats, and insulated tumblers!
Tax-Free & Free Shipping to HHMS! Order by September 21st to skip the tax and shipping fees shown on the order sheet.
How to Order:
Online: MyPaymentsPlus
In-Person: Cash or check (payable to Hamilton Holmes Middle School)
Note: Orders placed after Sept 21st will be sold via a separate link with tax and shipping fees added.
Get your orders in today! 🎒🍂
🐍 Rikki-Tikki-Tavi vs. The Cobras: Villainous or Just Minding Their Own Business? 🐍
Before diving into their short argument essays, our students rolled up their sleeves for a hands-on textual evidence sort!
Here’s how they tackled the debate:
1️⃣ Sorted the Evidence: Analyzed quote cards to build two cases—were Nag and Nagaina truly villains, or were they simply acting on their natural cobra instincts?
2️⃣ Took a Side: Examined the evidence, chose their position, and crafted strong claim statements
3️⃣ Built the Argument: Selected their most compelling evidence to back up their claims, with some students already diving into their rough drafts!
Learning is hands-on (and a little messy), but we promise... no desks were harmed in the making of this activity! 😉 Desk-writing optional, critical thinking required. 📝✨
Before diving into their short argument essays, our students rolled up their sleeves for a hands-on textual evidence sort!
Here’s how they tackled the debate:
1️⃣ Sorted the Evidence: Analyzed quote cards to build two cases—were Nag and Nagaina truly villains, or were they simply acting on their natural cobra instincts?
2️⃣ Took a Side: Examined the evidence, chose their position, and crafted strong claim statements
3️⃣ Built the Argument: Selected their most compelling evidence to back up their claims, with some students already diving into their rough drafts!
Learning is hands-on (and a little messy), but we promise... no desks were harmed in the making of this activity! 😉 Desk-writing optional, critical thinking required. 📝✨
Hands-on science in action! Mrs. Previs's Science class explored the states of matter by mixing up a batch of oobleck using just cornstarch, water, and a splash of food coloring. The students had a blast watching it instantly shift between a solid and a liquid right in their hands. 🧪✨
Students in Ms. Magee's Accelerated and Science 7 classes conducted a science investigation on the side of the coin, surface area, to determine the water-holding capacity. Students created their own hypotheses. Students conducted 3 trials each of the heads and tails of a penny, nickel, and dime. Students had the opportunity to count, calculate averages, and graph the data. Afterwards, an analysis of the data and conclusion statements were made; students were able to communicate their results to each partner group.
📸 Fall Picture Day — 9/25! 🍂
Paper forms coming home soon, but you can order now at mylifetouch.com with Picture Day ID: EVTQD7DZF. Order by midnight on 9/25 for FREE shipping! 🚚✨
Prefer cash/check? Send the completed flyer with your child on Picture Day. After 9/25, orders are online only
Paper forms coming home soon, but you can order now at mylifetouch.com with Picture Day ID: EVTQD7DZF. Order by midnight on 9/25 for FREE shipping! 🚚✨
Prefer cash/check? Send the completed flyer with your child on Picture Day. After 9/25, orders are online only
Meet Ms. V, our Instructional Technology Resource Teacher (ITRT)! While much of her work happens behind the scenes, her main focus is making sure technology actively supports your child’s learning every single day. Ms. V helps students, parents, and guardians access essential portals like Canvas and PowerSchool so you and your student can stay updated on your child’s progress. She also manages the Hamilton Holmes website and Facebook page to keep our community informed and connected.
Before any new learning software or app enters the classroom, she thoroughly vets it to ensure it is academically valuable and, above all, safe for student privacy. She also manages our core learning tools (like Lexia and IXL) and fixes tech glitches fast so classroom instruction stays on track. She collaborates directly with teachers to design fun, interactive lessons that use digital tools to make everyday learning more engaging for students. She also helps teachers and administrators look at student performance data so our school can quickly step in with the right support whenever a student needs an extra boost. She provides some of the earliest training for new teachers when they start at HHMS and plans and leads training for our staff, keeping our educators updated on the newest technology and ways to incorporate different teaching strategies.
Her fun fact: on top of all this, she also started the HHMS Intramural eSports team!
The best part of my job is getting to work with all the students and the teachers! I started out as an English teacher, but love Math and History too (sorry Science!), so getting to work with all the subjects and come up with creative projects is so much fun! It challenges me to know at least a little bit about a lot of different topics. Also, the technology is awesome! One of my favorite things has been teaching our students how to fly drones and code different robots to solve problems.
What is one thing you wish people knew about your job? It’s always changing! I have to keep up with new technology and its trends, like AI, and try to stay ahead to make sure our teachers and students are prepared for what the future brings.
Before any new learning software or app enters the classroom, she thoroughly vets it to ensure it is academically valuable and, above all, safe for student privacy. She also manages our core learning tools (like Lexia and IXL) and fixes tech glitches fast so classroom instruction stays on track. She collaborates directly with teachers to design fun, interactive lessons that use digital tools to make everyday learning more engaging for students. She also helps teachers and administrators look at student performance data so our school can quickly step in with the right support whenever a student needs an extra boost. She provides some of the earliest training for new teachers when they start at HHMS and plans and leads training for our staff, keeping our educators updated on the newest technology and ways to incorporate different teaching strategies.
Her fun fact: on top of all this, she also started the HHMS Intramural eSports team!
The best part of my job is getting to work with all the students and the teachers! I started out as an English teacher, but love Math and History too (sorry Science!), so getting to work with all the subjects and come up with creative projects is so much fun! It challenges me to know at least a little bit about a lot of different topics. Also, the technology is awesome! One of my favorite things has been teaching our students how to fly drones and code different robots to solve problems.
What is one thing you wish people knew about your job? It’s always changing! I have to keep up with new technology and its trends, like AI, and try to stay ahead to make sure our teachers and students are prepared for what the future brings.
Attention Hamilton Holmes families: Required gym shirts are now available for purchase on MyPaymentsPlus, by cash, or by check for $7. Shirts are required starting NEXT WEEK on 9/8. Any King William Spirit Wear shirt can be used as a gym shirt, but students will have to wear a KW/HHMS shirt to earn full daily gym credit.
6th Grade Field Trip: Look for Permission Slips Due 9/3
Students will be bringing home a permission slip on Monday (today) for a 6th grade science field trip! We know it is a short turnaround, but it is a fantastic opportunity for only $5! If your student needs a bagged lunch at school lunch prices (free and reduced lunch does apply), we need to form back by 9/3 for the cafeteria to prepare. If you need help with the cost of the trip, please contact the bookkeeper, Kathy Britt. We want all students to have the opportunity to participate.
Our 6th graders are heading outdoors for a day of hands-on learning and history at Sandy Point State Forest!
What Students Will Experience
Water Science: Students will explore the natural aquatic area through water sampling, monitoring, and seining along the river’s edge.
Critter Identification: Hands-on macroinvertebrate identification to study the local ecosystem.
Living History: A 17th-century historical interpreter will bring local history to life with captivating stories of King William.
What to Wear & Bring
Footwear (Required): Old tennis shoes or closed-toed water shoes. No flip-flops, sandals, slides, or open-toed shoes are permitted due to safety and the terrain.
Clothing: Wear clothes that can get dirty and potentially wet. We will be working in muddy areas along the water.
Recommended Items: A towel or blanket, a refillable water bottle, and bug spray
Students will be bringing home a permission slip on Monday (today) for a 6th grade science field trip! We know it is a short turnaround, but it is a fantastic opportunity for only $5! If your student needs a bagged lunch at school lunch prices (free and reduced lunch does apply), we need to form back by 9/3 for the cafeteria to prepare. If you need help with the cost of the trip, please contact the bookkeeper, Kathy Britt. We want all students to have the opportunity to participate.
Our 6th graders are heading outdoors for a day of hands-on learning and history at Sandy Point State Forest!
What Students Will Experience
Water Science: Students will explore the natural aquatic area through water sampling, monitoring, and seining along the river’s edge.
Critter Identification: Hands-on macroinvertebrate identification to study the local ecosystem.
Living History: A 17th-century historical interpreter will bring local history to life with captivating stories of King William.
What to Wear & Bring
Footwear (Required): Old tennis shoes or closed-toed water shoes. No flip-flops, sandals, slides, or open-toed shoes are permitted due to safety and the terrain.
Clothing: Wear clothes that can get dirty and potentially wet. We will be working in muddy areas along the water.
Recommended Items: A towel or blanket, a refillable water bottle, and bug spray
Please click the link to read this week's Viking Newsletter. If you have a student at HHMS and did not receive the Newsletter via email , please check your demographic information listed in PowerSchool. Link: https://app.smore.com/n/6en78b
Highlights:
6th Grade Field Trip Announcement
Week Two Instructional Highlights
Highlights:
6th Grade Field Trip Announcement
Week Two Instructional Highlights
The HHMS TILT club is off to a great start! TILT stands for Teens Interacting and Learning Together. Student mentors apply at the end of their 7th grade year to mentor Mrs. Gregory's students during our WIN block each day. TILT mentors need to maintain good grades, have strong teacher recommendations, and write an essay explaining why they want to be in TILT and how they will make an impact with students with different abilities. The students have already started to build friendships and work together on teams! We are excited for all they will accomplish together this year!
Two weeks in, and the creative energy at Hamilton Holmes is off the charts! Here is a peek at the incredible teaching and learning happening in our classrooms every day:
Building Confidence in Math: Ms. Stewart’s Math Lab kicks off learning with thought-provoking prompts that go beyond the textbook. Check out these students reflecting on the real-world question: "Why is it sometimes difficult to ask for help?"
Mastering the Fundamentals: Before picking up their instruments, Mr. Loveless' intermediate band students hit every note of preparation—counting rhythms aloud, tapping toes, clapping beats, and labeling music by hand.
Hands-on Problem Solving: Think you could build a popsicle stick bridge strong enough to hold real weight? Students in Mrs. Ambrose's Design & Modeling are teaming up to test their critical thinking and engineering skills against real-world challenges.
We love seeing our students collaborate, think critically, and grow every day!
Building Confidence in Math: Ms. Stewart’s Math Lab kicks off learning with thought-provoking prompts that go beyond the textbook. Check out these students reflecting on the real-world question: "Why is it sometimes difficult to ask for help?"
Mastering the Fundamentals: Before picking up their instruments, Mr. Loveless' intermediate band students hit every note of preparation—counting rhythms aloud, tapping toes, clapping beats, and labeling music by hand.
Hands-on Problem Solving: Think you could build a popsicle stick bridge strong enough to hold real weight? Students in Mrs. Ambrose's Design & Modeling are teaming up to test their critical thinking and engineering skills against real-world challenges.
We love seeing our students collaborate, think critically, and grow every day!
Grateful shoutout to St. Davis' Episcopal Church for feeding Hamilton Holmes' staff during Teacher Work Week—for the third year in a row! 🙏🍽️ The crew even rode the bus together and enjoyed camaraderie, laughter, and great food. It’s moments like these that remind us how strong our community is ❤️
