Week of April 13, 2026
The Week in Review at HMS: Notes from Dr. Cockley
Week of April 13, 2026

Zooming in on the wonders of nature! Our 6th grade scientists took learning outside, using digital microscopes to explore the world up close!

Our goals are growing! 8th grade students turned their aspirations into a beautiful community tree - each leaf and flower a reminder that we’re stronger (and more inspired!) together.

Huge thanks to our PE teachers and PE student leaders for getting us moving each morning on the morning announcements just before our OST’s…because a little energy goes a long way in helping us do our best!

We LOVE these sweet notes of encouragement for statewide testing from our 1st and 2nd grade friends at Ellsworth Hill! Our middle schoolers (and staff!) felt so supported and inspired - you definitely made our days brighter!

Reading, thinking, and connecting…6th grade LA small groups read an article together and unpacked a creative metaphor, comparing the character to a caterpillar!

State Send Off for our Science Olympiad team! The entire SciOly team was celebrated on Friday morning with cheers and applause throughout our building for their hard work all season! Best wishes to those competing this weekend in Columbus!
Important Notes:
Upcoming OSTs (Ohio State Tests):
- On Tuesday and Wednesday, April 21 and 22, 2026, HMS will be participating in Ohio’s Statewide Tests (OST’s) in Math for students in grades 6, 7 and 8.
- On Thursday, April 23, our 8th grade students will take both parts of the 8th Grade Science OST.
All students should bring:
- CHARGED Chromebook
- Chromebook charger
- A pencil
- Calculator for math testing (your child’s math teacher will tell them on which portion/s they can use their calculator)
- Book to read silently after testing
- Optional: Wired headphones (for any student who would like to use the text-to-speech feature, which is available to all students on math and science tests)
- NOTE: No additional electronic devices other than Chromebooks are permitted per testing rules. Please reinforce with your child that cell phones and smart watches are strictly prohibited during testing. These devices should be turned off and kept in their locker or placed in the classroom cell phone holder.
As with every day, students will perform their best with plenty of rest the night before, a well-balanced breakfast that morning, and prompt arrival to school each day of the test. As a reminder, testing begins at 8:00am each day.
Hudson Community First presents Jessica Lahey, 4/21, 7:00pm in HMS Auditorium
- Hudson Community First presents Jessica Lahey, educator and author of the New York Times bestseller, The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed, gives parents practical advice for how to step back and allow kids more opportunities to fail, rebound, and become more resilient, helping their children take ownership of their lives and develop growth mindset around learning.
- April 21 at 7:00pm in the Hudson Middle School Auditorium.
- Visit https://hudsoncommunityfirst.com/communityofcare to learn more and register for the free event.
Interested in Serving as a Substitute?
- Our district is actively looking for substitute teachers and staff members to help support our students. If you’ve ever considered stepping into our schools, this is a wonderful way to make a difference in the lives of students and support our community. Even a day or two of your time can have a big impact.
- We’d love for you to consider joining us - our students (and staff!) would truly appreciate your help!
- Now Hiring! Substitute Rates and Information Flyer
- Here’s a link to our district website: HCSD Human Resources - Job Opportunities
HMS Lunch Aide Sub Position - Immediately Available
- Perfect lunch-time hours! Outstanding people!
- We have an HMS lunch aide sub position available, likely through the end of the school year. The role is part-time daily from 10:30am - 1:00pm.
- This is such an important part of our students’ day, and we are truly appreciative of the individuals who support them during lunch.
- If you know of anyone who might consider this role, please reach out to them to share about this opportunity. You may know a retired friend, a recent graduate, or someone thinking about re-entering the workforce. Thank you so much for helping to spread the news.
- Anyone interested can apply here: Educational Aide/Lunch Long Term Substitute - Job ID 2830
May 8 - 8th Grade Send Off - Tickets on Sale Now!
- Our amazing HMS PTO is planning an incredible celebration for our 8th graders - the 8th grade “Blast Off!” on May 8th, from 6-9:00pm.
- Click here for the flyer and QR code for tickets!
- Or click here for the link to the PTO website to buy tickets: https://www.hudsonpto.org/ptostore/8th-Grade-Blast-Off-registration-p827278073/
HMS Staff Shout Outs:
Has an HMS staff member made a difference for your child? We love to show appreciation for our amazing staff at HMS! Here’s an opportunity to share more personally if a staff member has made a difference, no matter how big or small. I will be sure to recognize their efforts individually and quietly. HMS Staff Shout Out Google Form
HMS Calendar of Events - To view upcoming middle school activities, including performances and meetings, click here: https://www.hudson.k12.oh.us/calendar1
HMS Athletic Schedules - To view middle school athletic schedules, click here and select the middle school sport you are interested in viewing: https://www.hudsonexplorersathletics.com/ Schedules are updated at the beginning of the pertinent season.
PeachJar Flyers - For event information about district and community events, please view the latest Peachjar flyers here: HCSD PeachJar Link
