Horizon Happenings Back-To-School

Posted Date: 08/14/26 (09:00 AM)

Horizon Happenings

Back-To-School

Land Acknowledgement

We, the Ferndale School District, acknowledge we are residing on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Lummi People. The Lummi People are the original inhabitants of Washington's northernmost coast and southern British Columbia. They lived in villages throughout this territory and continue to have an ongoing relationship with these areas. Since Time Immemorial, they have celebrated life on their waterways and on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded lands of their People to perpetuate their way of life. We honor their ancestors as we acknowledge the past, present, and future Lummi People as the original inhabitants of this land.

Principal's Message

Hornet Families,

It’s hard to believe another school year is just around the corner! As we get ready to welcome students back to Horizon, I want to take a moment to say how grateful I am for the partnership, support, and trust you share with us. Middle school is such an important time in a young person’s life, and we know that students do their best when the adults in their lives work together. We’ll celebrate the successes, work through the challenges, and cheer our students on every step of the way.

One of my favorite things about middle school is watching students grow and change. Over the course of a year, we see students develop new skills, discover interests, build friendships, gain confidence, and learn how to navigate challenges. None of that happens in isolation. The encouragement and support students receive at home makes a tremendous difference, and we are thankful to be part of their journey.

We also know this year will bring some changes. District-wide budget reductions have resulted in staffing changes and other transitions. While change can sometimes bring uncertainty, one thing has not changed: our commitment to our students. Horizon will continue to be a place where students feel safe, welcomed, valued, challenged, and supported by caring adults who believe in them and want to see them succeed.

As we enjoy these last few weeks of summer, I hope our students take some time to relax, spend time with family and friends, explore something new, and enjoy learning in ways that don’t feel like school. There is plenty of time for schoolwork once September arrives!

We are excited to welcome everyone back on September 3rd, and we are especially looking forward to welcoming our incoming 6th graders to the Horizon family. Welcome to the Nest—we can’t wait to meet you!

Before that first day arrives, please take a few minutes to look through this newsletter. You’ll find important information about schedules, upcoming events, and some of the things you’ll want to know as we get the new school year underway.

Here’s to a great year ahead! We are so glad you’re part of our Hornet family.

Christine McDaniel

Principal, Horizon Middle School

Time Change

6th Grade and New Student Orientation will be held on September 1st. Doors open at 5:30 to pick up schedules and resources with a short program beginning promptly at 5:45. Entry will be through the gym at the back of the school. The program will take place in the Commons area.

Upcoming Dates & Events

📅 Important Dates & Events

August 18th

FSD Back to School Event; 4pm-6pm @ FHS

August 24th

HMS Office Open to the Public

August 28th

HMS Student Leadership Camp; 7/8 grade students in leadership positions

September 1st

6th Grade and New Student Orientation: 5:30-6:45

September 3rd

First Day of School

September 3rd and 4th

Device Distribution; see insurance info below

September 7th

NO SCHOOL-Labor Day Observed

September 11th

Picture Day; retakes on October 16th

September 16th

1st Early Dismissal at 11:13; sack lunches

September 21st

Vision and Hearing Screening; all 7th graders

Be Prepared for the 2026-2027 School Year

First Day of School: September 3rd

2026-2027 Supplies and Device Insurance

2026/27 HMS Bell Schedule

For Your Information and Planning

As there are 150-165 students present at each lunch & recess, so it can take time to locate them. If you need to pick up your child during their lunch period, please plan for a longer wait than if you arrive during the class time right before or after lunch & recess.

If you are calling to request a bus pass or leave a message for your student, please be sure to contact the main office BEFORE 2pm.

A Message From Mrs. Pelton-Our School Nurse

Tdap boosters are due for all the incoming 2026-2027 7th graders.

Please make your appointments now as they fill up fast.

To be following our school mandate we need all students to be up to date on their vaccinations or have an exemption on file.

Whatcom County Health Dept has free vaccine clinics for children Birth -18yrs old, offering recommended childhood vaccines. These are by appointment only on Wednesday 9:30-4:30pm or Fridays from 10am-2:30pm.

Schedule an appointment online at:

Whacomcounty.us/immunization-Clinics

Via email: immunizations@co.whatcom.wa.us

Call (360) 778-6100

Student Store

The Student Store is open on Fridays during all three lunches. Opening day will be Friday, September 19th.

Cash Only
No item above $2
Only open on Fridays during lunch

Family Support Resources

Top 10 Tips to Protect Teens Online

This resource outlines basic online safety for parents to utilize in conversation with their child.

Top 10 Tips

Communication at the Middle Level

The link below (The Insider's Guide) will take you to a document outlining how to stay connected with your child and Horizon. The focus is on communication by presuming positive intent and how to stay connected with your middle schooler.

The Insiders Guide

Know What's Going On Around FSD

Attendance

It is very important that students attend school every day and arrive on time. If your student is sick or has an emergency and cannot attend school, please call the office at (360) 383-9850 to report their absence.

FSD 2026/27 Student Calendar

Transportation Information

Bus information can be found on the Ferndale School District Website.
Students must submit a written note from their parent or guardian to the office in order to receive a bus pass to ride a different bus.
Families may drop students off no earlier than 7:40 AM. We kindly ask that families use the designated drop-off areas to ensure smooth and safe arrival procedures.