Military Families
Northwest Rankin Middle School is committed to providing a welcoming school environment for all families. For students from military families, this means understanding the unique challenges that come with military life, including frequent moves, deployments of a loved one and school requirements that vary from state to state.
Northwest Rankin Middle School Cougar Battalion
The Middle School JROTC Cougar Battalion is a leadership and character development program that empowers students with discipline, teamwork, and responsibility. Representing the strength and pride of the Cougar mascot, cadets learn essential skills in citizenship, leadership, and community service while fostering a spirit of excellence and respect. Through engaging activities, drills, and teamwork, the program prepares students for success in school and beyond. Cougars lead with honor!
Transition Planning
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Academic Planning
Registration information: New Student Registration Pack
Student Handbook: Rankin County School District Handbook
Northwest Rankin Middle School offers special education and gifted education services.
Information about special education services: Special Education
Information about gifted education: Venture
Student-Led Transition Program
The Cougar Ambassadors, sponsored by the school’s Military Point of Contact and NWRMS Counselors, is designed to support military-connected students in grades 6–8 as they transition to a new school. This program focuses on helping students adjust by introducing them to the campus, staff, and school culture while fostering a sense of belonging.
Cougar Ambassadors serve as student mentors, providing:
- Guided campus tours: including assistance with locating important areas and getting to class.
- Peer Introductions: helping new students build friendships and connections through shared interests, club involvement, and lunch companionship.
- Social Support: Seek guidance from a trust adult if they notice a new student or current member is having difficulties or may need additional support.
The program also incorporates activities to familiarize students with school routines and expectations, including:
- Explanations of school procedures: such as the dress code, hallway expectations, and recreational guidelines.
- Guidance on dismissal routines: like navigating the cafeteria flow, emergency procedures, etc.
This comprehensive program provides military students with meaningful relationships, a sense of belonging, and the support needed to navigate the unique challenges of frequent relocations.
Mental Health Services
Military life can be very stressful. In addition to the 3 school counselors on site at Northwest Rankin Middle School, Rankin County School District provides additional resources and supports.
Rankin County School District Counseling & Student Support Services: Mental Health
Mental health support provided through RCSD by licensed mental health professionals for students and families.
The Comfort Crew For Military Kids
Support for the social & emotional resiliency of military kids
Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress
Resources & articles for military families
American Gold Star Mothers Inc.
An organization for mothers who have lost a son or daughter in the service of our country
Gold Star Wives of America Inc.
Support for widows/widowers of service members who died on active duty
Resources for mental health tools
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS)
Provides compassionate care & comprehensive resources for all those grieving the death of a military or veteran loved one
Events
Valentines for Vets (Feb 2024)
Students created Valentine’s Day cards for veterans in the NWRMS community during their art class. They had the opportunity to personally distribute their cards to a veteran of their choice.
Sweets for Service Members (Feb 2025)
The Cougar Ambassadors and Save Promise Club created Valentine’s Day cards for students from military families, faculty and staff who serve in the armed forces, and members of the 172nd Airlift Wing in Flowood.
Cougar Care Packages delivered to 172nd Airlift Wing
The Student Council collected over 200 items for care packages sent to the 172nd Airlift Wing. Donations included games, socks, snacks, lip balm, and more. We are grateful for the service and sacrifice of these men and women.
Purple Up! Day
Students and teachers participated in Purple Up! Day to celebrate the Month of the Military Child. Everyone wore purple to show their support for military families. This year's Purple Up! Day will be held April 11, 2025.
Statewide Military School Liaison Contacts
|
Larry Mullins, NAS Meridian |
Joni L. Nalley, Columbus AFB slo2@us.af.mil Office: 662-434-2792 Cell: 662-352-6456 |
| Mona Odom, NCBC Gulfport Mona.odom.naf@us.navy.mil Office: 228-871-2117 Cell: 228-323-6105 |
Gerald Cross, Keesler AFB gerald.cross.1@us.af.mil Office 228-376-8505 |
Resources for Military Families
American Gold Star Mothers, Inc.
The Comfort Crew for Military Kids
Family Guidebook: Dealing with Deployment
Gold Star Wives of America, Inc.
Military Child Education Coalition
National Military Family Association
Military Officers Association of America