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Welcome to FMS!

Community Schools of Frankfort, Indiana

Welcome to FMS! Community Schools of Frankfort, Indiana

Welcome to FMS!

Welcome to Frankfort Middle School, where students become Frankfort Hot Dogs! On behalf of the entire Frankfort Middle School community, let us extend a warm welcome to each of you as you em'BARK' on your middle school journey filled with excitement, growth, and learning.


FMS is more than just a place of education; it’s a community that thrives on collaboration, support, and a shared commitment to fostering a positive learning environment. Our focus is on promoting critical thinking, creativity, and a passion for lifelong learning. We are dedicated to providing an enriching and inclusive experience for every student. Our talented educators are here to inspire, guide, and challenge students to reach their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.


FMS parents and guardians are encouraged to actively participate in your student’s educational journey. Your involvement is invaluable in creating a strong partnership between home and school, ensuring the success of our students. We look forward to building strong connections, celebrating achievements, and fostering a sense of belonging within the Frankfort Middle School Community.


Contact us today at 765-659-3321 to begin the enrollment process.

We look forward to meeting you!

Our Focus - Pillars of Excellence

Community

FMS is committed to the ongoing development of partnerships within our community. We currently do the following things to reflect our commitment to the Community Pillar of Excellence:

  • Back to School Night - B2S Night is held just before the start of each school year. In conjunction with area agencies, this event offers families access to resources to help students have a successful start to school with book giveaways, immunizations, meeting teachers, etc.

  • Quarterly Parent-Teacher Conferences - FMS holds parent-teacher conferences at the midpoint of each academic quarter. Parents & guardians are invited to come chat with teachers about student progress.

  • Social Media Presence - Families and community members are encouraged to follow our social media accounts to make sure you have up to date information and get notified about all the amazing things happening in our building.

  • Dogpack Dads - In an effort to maintain the male presences in our students’ lives, Dogpack Dads allows our dads to get involved by volunteering their time in our building.

  • Restorative Practices - Through restorative practices FMS focuses on relationships, respect, responsibility and repairing relationships.

  • Increased Parent Communication - Through concentrated efforts to reach out to our parents, we have been able to increase parent communication by over 100%. This is done through various communication efforts including email, phone calls, parent meetings and the use of apps for ongoing communication.

  • FMS News & Broadcasting - FMS pushes out our daily news via Youtube each day.

  • Purdue University Partnerships - FMS hosts Purdue Education Students each year as they work through their coursework to become a teacher.

  • IUK Grant Partnerships - FMS partners with Indiana University Kokomo to provide students with career resources and education.

  • Partnerships with Mental Health Agencies - FMS is proud to partner with various mental health agencies to provide services to students in need during the school day.

  • Translation Services - FMS is honored to provide translation services for our families that speak Spanish.

  • School Resource Officer - FMS’s Resource Officer is present at the front door each day. We are thankful for our ongoing relationship with the Frankfort Police Department and the ongoing community commitment to provide a safe environment for students to learn each day.

Literacy

FMS recognizes that literacy is the foundation for skills in nearly every other content area. With this in mind, FMS is committed to the Literacy Pillar of Excellence through the following:

  • FMS System of Literacy - FMS recently implemented a system of literacy that focuses on meeting students where they are in reading and making sure they grow.

  • Ongoing Literacy Professional Development - FMS exhibits their commitment to literacy through ongoing professional development for teachers with a focus on specific literacy strategies that benefit all subject areas.

  • Professional Learning Communities - The FMS Faculty has worked diligently to implement a professional learning community approach to education. This work allows teachers to evaluate achievement data and inform their instruction to target student needs.

  • Weekly Intervention System - Students who may struggle with reading and writing during the week receive academic interventions daily to address these needs.

  • Tier 3 Literacy Interventions - Those students who have significant literacy needs are enrolled in classes that diagnose and target specific literacy skills.

  • ELA & Math Literacy Parent Meetings - FMS believes in a strong relationship with parents to allow for students to be successful. We hold regular parent meetings to discuss academic strategies for students that may not be growing at typical rates.

  • Incentives for Success - FMS maintains a regular incentive program to recognize not only behaviors but also academic achievements.

  • Independent Reading - FMS is committed to the benefits of independent reading not only in English classes but through various subject area classes.

  • Weekly Enrichment - FMS maintains an enrichment program that gives opportunities for students who show mastery to continue their learning.

Post-Secondary

POST-SECONDARY

FMS recognizes that grades 6-8 are often when middle school students start to identify what career paths they want to pursue. At FMS, we are committed to the Post-Secondary Pillar of Excellence through the following:

  • Jobspark - Eighth grade students attend the ‘Jobspark’ event in Indianapolis each year to engage in career exploration.

  • Preparing for College & Careers - All 8th grade students take PCC - Preparing for College and Careers that provides career exploration and a high school credit.

  • High School Credit Courses - FMS students have the opportunity to earn high school credit through advanced math classes such as Algebra and Geometry.

  • Graduation Plans - Graduation plans are started when students enter 6th grade through our School Counseling Department.

  • High School Transition Activities - Students participate in ongoing transition activities to prepare them to go to the high school such as high school visits and tours and high school scheduling sessions.

  • 21st Century Scholarships - FMS works to stress the benefits of being enrolled as a 21st Century Scholar so that students have the opportunity to participate in post-secondary opportunities without financial burdens.

  • IUK Career Education Partnership - FMS partners with IUK to provide detailed career lessons for 6 weeks that include exploration opportunities as well as financial responsibility lessons and career aptitude tools.

Meet our Admin Team

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Kelly Berenda

Principal

Kelly Berenda is the proud Principal at Frankfort Middle School, where she has been the building leader since the 2015-2016 school year. Mrs. Berenda’s extensive experience and dedication to educational excellence have contributed to creating a school atmosphere where students and staff alike feel supported, inspired, and empowered to reach their full potential.

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Josh Marshall

Assistant Principal

Mr. Josh Marshall, the Assistant Principal at FMS, is a dedicated educator who graduated from Frankfort High School in 2001. With a passion for fostering student success, he brings a hometown connection and valuable experience to his role in shaping the learning environment for middle-level learners.

Student Involvement

There are many opportunities to get involved beyond the classroom at FMS!

We offer extracurriculars and clubs that cater to a wide range of student interests.

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Music Department

FMS is proud to say that nearly 80% of all students are involved in one of our outstanding music programs. Whether students choose band, orchestra, or choir, they become part of something amazing, as is displayed at our concerts throughout the year.


BAND

FMS band students in grades 6-8 are introduced to various musical instruments and music theory. Students learn to read sheet music, play in an ensemble, and develop essential skills for their chosen instrument. The class covers a range of musical genres and encourages teamwork through group performances.


ORCHESTRA

The FMS 6-8 Orchestra class introduces students to string instruments like the violin, viola, cello, and bass. Students receive instruction on music theory, notation, and ensemble skills through rehearsal and performance of various pieces. The curriculum aims to develop technical proficiency, musical expression, and teamwork among students.


CHOIR

FMS Choir students in grades 6-8 explore various musical genres, enhance ear training, and refine their pitch and rhythm skills. Emphasis is placed on developing proper breathing techniques and vocal dynamics.

Athletics Teams

For more information on any of the sports offered at FMS, please visit the district Athletics website.

  • Cross Country: Boys/Girls 6, 7, & 8 Combined Teams
  • Football: 7 & 8
  • Soccer: Boys/Girls 6, 7, & 8 Combined Teams
  • Tennis: Boys/Girls 6, 7, & 8 Combined Teams
  • Volleyball: 6, 7, & 8
  • Basketball: Boys/Girls 6, 7, & 8
  • Swimming: Boys/Girls 6, 7, &8 Combined Teams
  • Wrestling: 6, 7, & 8 Combined Team
  • Track and Field: Boys/Girls 6, 7, & 8 Combined Teams
  • Coed Golf: 6, 7, & 8 Combined Teams
  • Cheerleading: 6, 7, & 8

Student Clubs & Activities

YEARBOOK

The FMS Yearbook Club captures memories through photography, design, and storytelling. Students collaborate to create a timeless keepsake that celebrates the school year, showcasing events, achievements, and the diverse personalities within the school community.


NEWSPAPER

The FMS Newspaper Club offers students a platform to explore journalism, enhance writing skills, and cover exciting events within the school. Participants learn about interview techniques, article structure, and the editorial process while contributing to a creative and informative publication.


STUDENT COUNCIL

The FMS Student Council is a group of students elected by their peers to represent the student body. Council members typically organize and participate in school events, address student concerns, and act as liaisons between students and school administration. It’s a great opportunity for students to develop leadership skills and contribute to their school community.


DORK CLUB

The FMS Dork Club is where strategic minds meet for epic battles and friendly competition. From classic to modern games, students are encouraged to get involved for the laughter, camaraderie, and joy of playing games.


ART CLUB

Unleash your creativity at the FMS Art Club. Students are engaged in a variety of artistic activities, from painting and drawing to crafts and collaborative projects. So come unleash your creativity in a supportive and fun environment.


DRAMA/THEATER CLUB

The FMS Drama Club is a creative environment where students explore acting, stagecraft, and teamwork. Through rehearsals and performances, students develop their talents, build confidence, and forge lasting friendships.


TALENT/VARIETY SHOW

The FMS Variety Show is a vibrant showcase of students’ diverse talents, featuring everything from music performances and dance routines to comedy acts and magical feats. The stage comes alive with creativity as students pour their passion into entertaining their peers and teachers.


THE DAWG HOUSE

The FMS Dawg House encourages students to explore creativity and problem-solving through entrepreneurial activities. Participants develop critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership skills while gaining hands-on experience in business concepts.


FMS NEWS BROADCASTING

Students involved in FMS News Broadcasting have the opportunity to develop communication and journalism skills. Participants learn scriptwriting, video editing, and on-camera presentation, fostering creativity and teamwork in producing daily news segments for the FMS school community.


SCIENCE OLYMPIAD

Science Olympiad is a competitive tournament for middle school students. Teams of 15 students compete in various events covering topics like biology, physics, chemistry, and engineering. Events range from building projects to lab experiments, testing participants’ knowledge and skills. The goal is to foster interest in science and encourage teamwork and problem solving.


SCIENCE FAIR

FMS students who are part of the district’s high-ability programming have the opportunity to participate in the annual regional science fair. Students have the opportunity to explore and experiment with various science concepts through hands-on projects with the guidance of the district’s High Ability Coordinator, Bret Rhea. FMS has walked away with the most medals and awards for 19 years in a row!


SCHOOL DANCES

FMS holds 2-3 school dances each year. These social events allow students to dance, socialize and have fun in a casual atmosphere supervised by school personnel. Decorations, snacks, and sometimes themed elements contribute to the overall experience.


QUARTERLY INCENTIVE DAYS

FMS Quarterly Incentive Days are designed to reward students for their hard work and positive behavior. Activities may include games, contests, video games, and competitions.

Enrollment Information

Frankfort Middle School is delighted to help families through the enrollment process. We ask that parents and students come to the school (329 N. Maish Road, Frankfort, Indiana) to complete enrollment forms. You will need to bring the following for enrollment:

  • PROOF OF RESIDENCY

    • The parent of the student enrolling must verify their residence in the Community Schools of Frankfort district by providing the following:

      • Rental agreement, lease, rent receipt, deed, or purchase agreement (NOTE: These must include the property address and the parent name) OR

      • A current utility bill (electricity, gas, heating oil, water) that includes the property address and the parent name

    • If the parent and student are living with a relative or friend:

      • The relative/friend must produce one of the above documents to verify their own residence; AND

      • A letter that names the student and parent, and states that they live at the address with the relative/friend

        • The parent, as well as the student, must live in this household.

        • The above letter must be signed and dated by the relative/friend and NOTARIZED BY A NOTARY PUBLIC.

  • BIRTH CERTIFICATE - We can make a copy

  • PARENT DRIVER’S LICENSE - We can make a copy

  • INFORMATION ABOUT THE PREVIOUS SCHOOL - We will request the student’s records from the previous school. We need the name of the school as well as the address.

  • CUSTODY/ADOPTION PAPERWORK - If there is specific parenting or custody information that the school should be aware of, families should bring these court documents. We will make copies for our records.

  • STUDENT SCHEDULING PREFERENCES - In order to create a schedule for a student, we will need to know the following:

    • Music preference - Band, Orchestra, Choir, or News Broadcasting

    • At the previous school, was the student enrolled in any advanced or high-ability courses? If yes, please bring a report card or school schedule verifying this. If this is not available, we will be able to request these records from the previous school.

    • Does the student have an IEP (Individual Education Plan) or a 504 Plan? Parents are encouraged to bring a copy if one is available. If this is not available, we will be able to request these records from the previous school.


The Frankfort Middle School office is open for enrollment on weekdays during the school year from 8 am until 4 pm. During non-school days, parents are encouraged to contact the school at 765-659-3321 to make sure the office is open.


Before the start of each school year, a registration day is held for all new students. These dates are publicized on our district and school website. Families are also welcome to contact our school for this information as well. Additionally, a ‘Back to School Night’ is held each year before the first day of school. These dates and times are also publicized on our school and district website.
Frankfort Middle School
Community Schools of Frankfort

329 N Maish Road, Frankfort, IN 46041

Phone: 765-659-3321 | Fax: 765-659-6260

www.fms.frankfortschools.org