Skip to main content

8/9/2026 Conway Community Newsletter

Posted Date: 08/09/26 (05:11 PM)


A stylized red hawk head logo with blue and white accents on a black background.

Conway Community Newsletter

August 9, 2026
The school Principal

Greetings Conway Community and Families,

We are just days away from kicking off the school year on Tuesday, August 11! Our staff is ready, the building looks fresh, and our teachers are excited to welcome your child into their classroom. Our top priority during these first few days is ensuring that each of our students feels safe, comfortable, and supported as they transition back into school. We know that when students feel secure and connected, real growth happens. The teaching team has been preparing for academic learning to begin right away during this first week, so expect your student to be able to come home and share things that they’ve started learning this week. Outside of the classroom, your student will receive their laptop, as well as attend student grade-level assemblies to learn student expectations and school-wide rules this week. The goal of these meetings will be to build community, answer questions, and set a positive, focused tone for the year ahead.
 

Finally, as we adjust to our new daily routines, please plan for slower traffic around the building during arrival and dismissal, especially during these first few days. As a reminder, students should not be on campus before 9am unless they are in the YMCA morning care program. Our gates open and student supervision starts at 9am. Thank you in advance for your patience and extra caution in the drop-off and pick-up lanes as we keep our campus safe. Lastly, please be sure to review the procedures below for when there is a weather delay. We can’t wait to see everyone on Tuesday!
Conway Middle School logo featuring a red, white, and blue hawk mascot.

School Information

Need Bus Route Information?

A smiling young boy in a red shirt and backpack stands in front of a yellow school bus.

August Calendar of Events 📅

A field of bright yellow sunflowers under a blue sky with the word 'AUGUST' in large yellow letters.

August Calendar of Events

📚 Get ready for an exciting start to the new school year! Here are the important dates to mark on your calendar.

🗓️ Important Dates

📌August 11: First Day of School! (9:25 Sharp!)
📌August 12–14: Soccer Tryouts
📌August 14 PTSA AstroSkate Night (6-8pm)
📌August 15: Parent Academy @ Howard Middle School. 10am-1pm.
📌August 25: 🤝 PTSA / SAC Meeting in Media Center (6-7pm)
📌August 26: Soccer Game @ Lake Como
📌August 27: 📝 FAST PM1 – ELA Assessment
📌August 31: ⚽ Soccer Game @ Liberty
 

2026-2027 School Supply List 📓✏️

The Conway Middle School 2026-2027 School Supply List is here! Be sure to gather the essential supplies needed for a successful school year.

Let's start the year prepared and ready to learn, Falcons!
List of supplies needed for school. Bookbag, notebook paper, number 2 pencils, blue/black pens, highlighters, index cards, graph paper, four-function calculator, wired headphones, wireless mouse(optional)
 

📢 Conway Middle School Weather Delay Procedures

🌧️ Weather Delay Guidelines

1. Identification Required for Early Pick-Up
If you are picking up your student during a weather delay, please bring a valid photo ID and check in at the front office. This is for the safety and accountability of all students.

2. Communication via ParentSquare
Any delay in dismissal due to weather will be communicated promptly through ParentSquare. Please ensure your contact information is up to date and notifications are enabled.

3. Plan Ahead for Light Rain
While we will hold students indoors during severe weather (heavy rain, thunder, lightning, etc.), students may be dismissed during light rain.
👉 We strongly recommend that all walkers carry an umbrella to stay dry and safe during light rain conditions.

4. Patience is Key
Weather delays can be unpredictable. We ask for your patience and understanding as we prioritize student safety and follow district protocols.
 

Micromobility Policy

Transportation Update

Under the new district policy, middle school students may not bring or use motorized micromobility devices on school property, including e-bikes, e-scooters, and hoverboards.

Families have until September 8 to make alternative transportation arrangements.

Thank you for helping us keep our campus safe.
 

Device Checkout Begins the First Week of School!

Students will receive their school-issued devices during the first week of school according to the schedule below:

  • Wednesday, August 128th Grade
  • Thursday, August 137th Grade
  • Friday, August 146th Grade
 

Discover Xello: Helping Students Plan for Their Future!

Xello helps middle school students explore their interests, discover career pathways, and start planning for their future. Families can access Xello to view their student's progress and support their college and career journey. Throughout the school year, your student will utilize Xello in their classes to assist in career exploration, interests, and more.
Xello helps middle school students explore their interests, discover career pathways, and start planning for their future. Families can access Xello to view their student's progress and support their college and career journey.
 

Conway Administration Contacts

Principal: Joshua Bing
Email: Joshua.Bing@ocps.net

Assistant Principal: Timothy Baumbach
Email: Timothy.Baumbach@ocps.net

Assistant Principal: Jennah Oddo
Email: Jennah.Oddo@ocps.net

Dean 8th grade and 7th grade A-L: Deogracia Wigen
Email: Deogracia.Wigen@ocps.net

Dean 6th grade and 7th M-Z: Stevie Oliver
Email: Stevie.Oliver@ocps.net

Staffing Specialist: Shalonda Griffin
Email: shalonda.griffin@ocps.net

School Counselor 6th grade and 7th M-Z: Shane Johnson 
Email: Shane.Johnson@ocps.net

School Counselor 8th grade and 7th grade A-L- Brooke Coe 
Email: Brooke.Coe@ocps.net

Parent Engagement Liaison: Nakya Unice Sullivan
Email: Nakyaunice.Sullivan@ocps.net

Registrar: Maryann Mercado
Email: maryann.mercado@ocps.net

Attendance Clerk: Migdalia Natali
Email: Migdalia.Natali@ocps.net

Secretary: Balaguer-Wicks
Email: Elsie.Balaguer-Wicks@ocps.net

School Social Worker: Talia DeCant
Email: Talia.DeCant@ocps.net

Instructional Coach/Testing Coordinator- Stephanie Garland
Email: Stephanie.Garland@ocps.net

 

Attendance Matters: Every Day Counts!

Did you know that students who attend school regularly are more likely to be successful both inside and outside the classroom? Every school day provides valuable opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with teachers and friends.
Why is attendance important?

✅ Helps students stay on track with learning and assignments
✅ Builds positive habits and responsibility
✅ Strengthens friendships and connections at school
✅ Increases confidence and classroom participation
✅ Supports long-term academic success

Every day at school is a chance to learn, grow, and achieve. Let's make attendance a priority this year!

Meet The Teacher

Meet the Teacher Night was a wonderful start to the new school year!

Families had the opportunity to meet teachers, explore classrooms, receive helpful resources, and connect with staff. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped create a warm and welcoming start to the year.

We can't wait to see all that our Falcons accomplish this year!
A smiling young person holds a blue backpack next to a man in a suit and tie.

Athletics & Activities

Soccer Tryouts and Schedule

Do you have what it takes to be part of the Conway soccer team? Join us for soccer tryouts August 12-14 at 7:45 a.m. each morning!

Students interested in trying out must have a current physical uploaded and approved in Aktivate before participating. Please make sure all athletic paperwork is completed before tryouts.

Dates: August 12-14
Time: 7:45 a.m.

Come ready to work hard, show your skills, and have fun!
Soccer Schedule August 26th Conway at  Lake Como (Away). August 31st  Conway at  Liberty (Away). September 2nd   Conway vs Arbor Ridge (Home). September 9th   Conway vs Odyssey (Home). September 14th     Conway vs RCMS (Home). Girls play first followed by the boys...5:30 & 6:30
 

Orange County PAL Basketball at Conway Middle School

Calling all 6th-8th grade students! Join the Orange County PAL Basketball Program and build your basketball skills, stay active, and have fun with friends in a positive team environment.

Date: Wednesdays, August 26 - October 1, 2026
Location: Conway Middle School
Time: 3:00 PM - 4:15 PM
Only $7 for the season

Registration is now open! Scan the QR code or click the link below. Don't miss out!

Parent Resources

YMCA Before and After School Program

Need care before or after school? The YMCA has you covered!

Before School Program: $32 per week
After School Program: FREE
✅ Fun activities, homework help, and a safe place to learn and grow

Register Today!
A flyer advertises the YMCA Middle School Before School Program in Orange County, featuring a QR code for registration.
Poster for YMCA Middle School After School Zone in Orange County, featuring children engaged in an activity.
 

Parent Academy

Get ready for a successful school year! Join Parent Academy on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Howard Middle School for a day of learning, resources, and family engagement. Parents and guardians will enjoy informative sessions, connect with OCPS departments and community partners, and discover valuable tools to support student success.
Register Today!
Parent Academy flyer for 8/15 at Howard Middle School from 10 am-1:00 pm
 

Community Backpack Giveaway!

Families are invited to attend a free Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway featuring:

✅ Free backpacks & school supplies
💈 Free haircuts for students
🌭 Free hot dogs
🍧 Free popsicles
🏰 Bounce house & kids' activities
Date: August 8th (TOMORROW!)
Location: 1900 Conway Gardens Rd, Orlando
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM


Registration is encouraged, and supplies are available while they last. This is a great opportunity for families to prepare for the new school year and enjoy a fun day in the community!

 

Hope Florida

Hope Florida – A Pathway to Purpose helps families connect with local resources and support through trained Hope Navigators. Whether you're facing challenges with housing, employment, or family needs, Hope Navigators work with you to create a personalized plan for stability and success.
Hope Florida

Join Our PTSA!

Conway PTSA QR Code
Do you want to be more involved in Conway Middle? If so, joining our amazing PTSA is the ideal choice! The membership fee is $10 for parents and students. 

Our next meeting is scheduled for August 25th at 6:00 p.m. in the Conway Media Center. If you have any questions about getting involved please contact our PTSA at conwaymsptsa@gmail.com

This is a wonderful way to stay involved and to support our school community. Your support helps fund essential school programs, events, and resources. Below is the link to become a member of PTSA or to donate.

 

PTSA Skate Night is Rolling In!

Grab your friends and family and join us for a fun-filled evening at PTSA Skate Night on Friday, August 14th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM! Enjoy a night of skating, music, and community while supporting Conway Middle School.

Cost: $12 per person at the door
Skate rental is included!

Advertisement for Astro Skate Orlando's 1st PTSA Skate Night on Friday, August 14th, from 6 PM to 8 PM for $12 at the door, including skate rental.

Conway Community Clothing Center

🎉 Turn Your Clutter into Kindness! Drop Off Clothes, Shoes & More

An image promoting a clothing and shoe recycling program to raise money for schools.
An advertisement for a Charity Recycling Service bin, supporting OCPS students.
Poster promoting a charity recycling service to support OCPS students.
 

Contact Info

Conway Middle School Logo
If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach out via the following links: