Hightower Trail Middle School

Hightower Trail Middle School, established in 1992, serves 1100 students and is located in East Cobb County.  Their stated mission is “Learning through Engagement, Performance, Application”. HTMS achieved the prestigious AdvancED STEM Certification. This recognizes that their STEM educational programs have met the rigor and substance vital to creating and sustaining superior, student centered STEM teaching and learning programs.

Academics

Students are placed in On Level or Advanced Content (AC) classes based on test scores and teacher recommendations. The difference between an AC class and On Level is students dig deeper into the information.  Math classes go beyond the AC level and will affect a student’s Math placement in High School.  In 8th grade students that qualify take Spanish instead of Reading.  STEM in an integral part of HTMS and each grade has a theme that carries through all of their classes. 6th grade is Survive and Adapt, 7th grade is Design with Purpose, and 8th grade is Innovation with Accountability.

PTSA/Foundation

PTSA and Foundation are two ways for parents to be involved at HTMS .  PTSA serves HTMS through a number of volunteer committees such as Book Fair, Copy Crew, Front Office Volunteer,Media Center and many other committees. The mission of the HTMS Foundation is to “provide funding for needed programs and facilities which enhance the educational experience at HTMS.” The Foundation covers items that Cobb County, the state of GA or the PTSA cannot provide. Examples include a Computer Lab, iPads with Mobile Cart, Lego Robotic Kits, Locker maintenance, and Guidance Office furniture.

Connections

HTMS offers Connections to all students as a compliment to their Academic classes. Each student has two connections each quarter. Music programs are a popular Connection choice. Students choose from Band, Chorus or Orchestra. All three of these programs put on several concerts a year, and participate in events outside of HTMS. Other Connection choices include Art, Business/Technology, PE/Health, and Design.

Student Activities

There are so many ways for students to get involved at HTMS.  Academic Bowl, Creative Writing Club, Film Club, Guitar Club, and Lego Robotics Team are just some of the clubs that students can join. Teachers sponsor clubs and work with students in planning the activities of the club. Finally, Hightower Trail  also has a Interclub Council that provides feedback to the principal on school climate and academics.

Feeder Schools

Elementary: Mountain View, Murdock, Shallowford Falls, Tritt

High School: Pope