A Message from Mr. Ziesmer     

Welcome, parents, new students and returning students to the CMS web page! The students at CMS are known for their friendliness, enthusiasm and hard work. You have the opportunity to become part of this tradition. We encourage you to pay attention in class, listen to directions and explanations, ask questions, and try to do the best job you can.

As you settle into Central Middle School, you will see our school is designed for students your age. The courses, extra programs, and even the architecture of our building were established for you. This is a time for you to explore. You will discover new skills, new interests and learn many new things.

One goal of our school is to teach you HOW TO LEARN. Your teachers will encourage you to think for yourself, learn how to ask useful questions, seek answers on your own, and how to study effectively. Sometimes you will learn from the information your teacher gives you, sometimes you will work by yourself, and there will be times you will work with your friends. Group and class projects will teach you many things, including how to work with others. During middle school years, you will discover how you learn best. It could be by listening, reading, or creating something with your hands. It might even be all of these. You will find CMS a busy and friendly place to learn. Yes, school is just around the corner and we've been busy fixing, changing, and preparing things for an exciting school year.

While actual policies and rules will be covered in individual class orientation meetings on the first day of school, I wanted to bring to your attention a couple of rules that have been persistent issues within our building - cell phone use and appropriate dress. Cell phones are not to be on, in, or used in classes for ANY reason. The policy will be strictly enforced. A number of students are also coming to school dressed inappropriately (inappropriate messages on their shirts, shirts that expose the body, skirts and shorts that are too short, pants/shorts that hang far below the waist). Look at what your son or daughter is wearing. If you have to ask whether it is appropriate for school or not, the answer is probably no. We ask that you help to minimize these problems by discussing the rules and expectations with your student.

I am looking forward to a great year at the Central Middle School! We have a great school and will continue to work on making it even better. We will continue to build upon the wonderful foundation that exists here to create a positive place for all students to reach their full potential.

Welcome to CMS - we're glad you're here!

Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, concerns, comments, or suggestions. My school phone number is 659-0735 and my email is dan.ziesmer@central-clinton.k12.ia.us. See you all very soon! Enjoy the rest of the summer!

Dan Ziesmer

Go SABERS