Keeping you plugged into the exciting things happening at the Middle School
Published July 26, 2026
Volume 315
Adam Vinson - Middle School Principal
A MESSAGE FROM MR. VINSON
As we look towards the start of the school year, we are excited to announce that student schedules will be made available by noon on Friday, July 31st. Be sure to check out Blackbaud on Friday to learn more about your child’s classes and teachers for this upcoming year. Mrs. Peavy, our Academic Dean, will be sending information for how to access your child’s schedule and how to communicate any questions or concerns you might have. Thank you for your patience as we carefully worked through all of the requests to build the best possible schedule for each student.
Be sure to enjoy these final weeks of summer! We look forward to seeing everyone back on campus very soon!
School Year Theme
Trust the Lord - Proverbs 3:5
Our theme for the 26-27 school year is “Trust the Lord”, taken from Proverbs 3:5. As we celebrate our 35th school year at TCS, we are using Proverbs 3:5 to remind ourselves and our students of the many reasons we have for trusting the Lord always. We look forward to teaching our students what it means to have the heart of a lion that trusts in Him through chapel lessons, d-group discussions and more!
IMPORTANT DATES TO START THE YEAR
Friday, August 7 = Welcome to the Roar
Monday, August 10 = Meet the Teacher Day
Tuesday, August 11 = 1st Day of School
Aug 20-21 = Progress Learning Testing
Aug 24 = Fall Picture Day
Sep 7 = Labor Day Holiday
Sep 9-11 = 8th Grade Retreat to Snowbird
AUGUST BACK TO SCHOOL EVENTS
Mark your calendars for these special days to kickoff the new year. More details to come!
Friday, August 7 = WELCOME TO THE ROAR - a block party style event for all of our new and returning TCS families.
Monday, August 10 = MEET MY TEACHER DAY - an opportunity to walk through schedules, meet teachers, etc.
Families with last name A-L = 9:30-11:30am (drop-in time slot)
Families with last name M-Z = 1:30-3:30pm (drop-in time slot)
Tuesday, August 11 = FIRST DAY OF CLASSES = the 25-26 school year begins!
IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS TO REVIEW
FOR THE START OF SCHOOL
26-27 MIDDLE SCHOOL ORIENTATION PACKET: Our Orientation Packet is officially here! Check out the information contained in this packet to give you an overview of what is coming in 26-27.
MS Thrival Guide: While middle school brings a lot of growth and change, it doesn’t have to be something you “survive”. At TCS, we believe this time period should be one of THRIVING rather than SURVIVING. Check out the guide we have written as TCS staff based on years of experience. We are here to help you walk this road with your child! MS THRIVAL GUIDE LINK
NEW TEACHER WELCOME: REKE GATLIN
I am excited to join Trinity Christian School as the new Art Teacher for 1st-8th grades! I have been part of the Trinity family for over 10 years, and I am grateful for the opportunity to now serve the school community in this role. I studied Fashion Merchandising and Marketing at Academy of Art University, where I developed a strong foundation in art, design, and creative expression. Art has always been a meaningful part of my life, and I am passionate about helping students discover their own creativity, develop their artistic skills, and recognize the unique gifts God has given them.
I look forward to creating an encouraging and inspiring classroom environment where students can explore the visual arts while growing in confidence and creativity. I am excited to continue growing as part of the Trinity community and to share my love of art with my students!
SUPPLY LISTS FOR 26-27 SCHOOL YEAR
Looking to get a jump on next year as you see deals throughout the summer? Check out our grade-level supply lists. These lists are subject to additions at the beginning of July. No items will be removed, but some additional items may be added.
8TH GRADE RETREAT: SNOWBIRD WILDERNESS OUTFITTERS
For all of our rising 8th graders, mark your calendars now for our annual 8th-grade retreat to Andrews, NC. This is a memorable event each year and is used to launch our spiritual development for 8th grade.
WHEN? - Sept 9-11
WHERE? - Snowbird Outfitters in Andrews, NC (www.swoutfitters.com)
COST? - $210 (includes transportation, food, recreation)
COMMUNITY SERVICE REQUIREMENT
All middle schoolers are required to complete 10 hours of community service each school year (due in May 2027). Students may complete hours in the summer prior to school starting. Utilize this Community Service Form 2026-2027 to keep track hours that you serve this summer.
COMMUNITY SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES
Are you looking for ways that your child can complete their required 10 hours? Check out the options below.
Chapel Setup Team - We are looking for volunteers who will commit to setting up chairs for chapel each Wednesday morning. Students who serve on this team will need to arrive by 7:30am. Students who serve on this team will also fulfill the required 10 hours for the school year.
Cafeteria Clean Up Team - We are looking for volunteers who will commit to staying behind a few extra minutes each day after being dismissed from lunch to assist our cafeteria workers with table clean up. Students who serve on this team will fulfill the required 10 hours for the school year.
If your child would like to volunteer for either team, please email our Assistant Principal, Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org).
Summer Information and Activities
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SUMMER READING CHALLENGE
This is an optional program for students to maintain and improve their reading skills over the summer. Students who choose to complete the challenge will receive a mystery prize in August. A form will be provided at the end of the summer to show completion.
SUMMER MATH CHALLENGE
Check out this letter if your child is entering 6th grade, or check out this letter if your child is entering 7th or 8th grade, regarding suggested math resources this summer to help you review and prepare for next year.
OUR TEAM IS HERE TO HELP!
Principal: Adam Vinson (adam.vinson@tcslions.org)
Assistant Principal: Tiffany McBurnett (tiffany.mcburnett@tcslions.org)
Academic Dean: Kristan Peavy (kristan.peavy@tcslions.org)
Director of Academic Services: Melissa Lanier (melissa.lanier@tcslions.org)
Director of Spiritual Development: Wesley Lassiter (wesley.lassiter@tcslions.org)
Director of Skills Development: Jenn Opsahl (jennifer.opsahl@tcslions.org)
MIDDLE SCHOOL RESOURCES
CHECK OUT THE HELPFUL TOOLS BELOW REGARDING THE 26-27 SCHOOL YEAR
26-27 SCHOOL CALENDAR - Stay in the know about upcoming breaks and holidays.
PRE-ABSENCE FORM - Submit pre-planned absences 5 days in advance for approval.
COMMUNITY SERVICE FORM - Reminder that all middle schoolers are required to complete 10 hours of service by May 2027.
DRESS CODE POLICY - Please make sure your child is dressed appropriately each day.
IT HELP DESK LINK - If your child has an issue with their Chromebook, submit a ticket.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE POLICY - When is it appropriate to use AI for assignments?
MIDDLE SCHOOL THRIVAL GUIDE - Don’t just survive middle school, help your child THRIVE during these years! Check out the helpful guide assembled by our TCS staff based on years of middle school experience.
RIDING HOME WITH A FRIEND? If your student will be going home with another student during dismissal, please send an email to receptionist@tcslions.org. Please give us as much advance notice as possible so we can ensure the dismissal system is updated to reflect the change.