Locust Grove Middle School Celebrates Bullying Prevention Month

Throughout October, Locust Grove Middle School (LGMS) led a series of proactive initiatives in recognition of Bullying Prevention Month, promoting unity, acceptance, kindness, and respect among students and staff.

One of the highlights of the month was the Buddy Bench Project, spearheaded by School Counselor Mrs. Thomason and proudly sponsored by WRB Home Improvement LLC (David Bowling). Students actively participated in both the construction and artistic design of the benches. The benches feature artwork and anti-bullying messages created by students from LGMS, LGPS, LGES, Lightfoot, and Orange Elementary, making them unique to Orange County Public Schools. Each Buddy Bench encourages students to reach out, make connections, and ensure that no one sits alone.

LGMS also hosted a school wide Art Contest across all grade levels, inviting students to express anti-bullying messages through digital media, mixed media, paintings, and drawings. While the creativity and skill were impressive, the heartfelt messages promoting kindness and empathy were what truly stood out.

To conclude the month, LGMS held its second annual Team Building Day, led by Mrs. Thomason in collaboration with the school’s Resource Officer and members of our school team. Together, they spoke with students about the importance of personal choices, digital citizenship, and the lasting impact of one’s online footprint. Following the discussion, students participated in a rotation of team-based activities designed to strengthen communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.

Through the school-wide reward system, homeroom teams that demonstrated outstanding teamwork and respect earned points toward grade-level recognition. The top-scoring homerooms (per grade level) were entered into a gift card raffle, made possible through the generous support of local businesses:
Danny's Driveway Paving & Sealing, Bella Cucina Mexican Restaurant, Buffalo Wild Wings (Carl D Silver), Sheetz–Locust Grove, My Avocado Mexican Grill With A Mediterranean Twist, Momma’s Pizza, Witch’s Brew, and Barbara’s Soul Food on Wheels.

Thanks to the generosity of community partners and one our very own staff members, the school was able to fund over $1,000 to this program that celebrates everyone working together as one team. 

A heartfelt thank you is also extended to the parent volunteers who donated their time, wisdom, and compassion to help make this month of learning, connection, and kindness a success.

At Locust Grove Middle School, when we stand together, kindness always wins.

October is Bullying Prevention Month

Take a look at our counseling website and take a stand with OC against bullying!

It was great to see our new Mustangs and returning students!

Thank you for attending 6th grade Orientation and Open House.