TMSAA CHAMPIONSHIP

CLEVELAND MIDDLE SCHOOL TO HOST HISTORIC FIRST TMSAA WRESTLING STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

December 12, 2024
Cleveland City Schools Cleveland Middle School is proud to announce that it will host the first-ever Tennessee Middle School Athletic Association (TMSAA) Wrestling State Championsh...
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Cleveland City Schools is proud to announce two leadership updates within the district. Mr. Nat Akiona has been named the next principal of Yates Primary School, and Mrs. Emily Raper has been named the new principal of Cleveland Middle School. Mr. Akiona currently serves as principal of Cleveland Middle School, where he has led since joining Cleveland City Schools in 2021. With more than 30 years of experience in education, Mr. Akiona brings a deep love for students and a heart for service. His move to Yates Primary marks a new chapter of service within Cleveland City Schools, where he will have the opportunity to support some of the district’s youngest learners and the educators who help build their foundation. “Mr. Akiona brings a wealth of school leadership experience to Yates,” said Dr. Jeff Elliott, Director of Schools. “He leads with drive and energy. We are excited for the Yates Primary families and community to experience his care, enthusiasm, and commitment to helping children grow.” “I have always enjoyed the world of elementary education,” Mr. Akiona said. “It is where miracles are considered daily accomplishments. Seeing the growth that happens in this age group and having a part in their development is a great honor. I look forward to working with the wonderful staff at Yates Primary School, many of whom I previously had the privilege to work with.” Mrs. Raper currently serves as an assistant principal at Cleveland Middle School, where she has continued to build strong relationships with students, staff, and families. Her connection to CMS began in 2011, when she started her career in Cleveland City Schools as a student teacher at the middle school. Since then, Mrs. Raper has served Cleveland City Schools in a variety of roles, including classroom teacher, BLADE Facilitator, Operations Assistant Principal at Blythe Bower Elementary School, and assistant principal at Cleveland Middle School. Her experience across both instruction and school leadership has given her a strong understanding of what students and teachers need to thrive. “Mrs. Raper is a proven leader who knows and loves Cleveland Middle School,” said Dr. Elliott. “She has built meaningful relationships across this district, and she brings both a teacher’s heart and a leader’s vision to this role. We are excited for her to continue serving the CMS community in this new capacity.” “I am truly honored and excited to step into the role of principal at a school that means so much to me personally and professionally,” Mrs. Raper said. “After 15 years serving this community as both a teacher and an administrator, I know all of the amazing things that happen at CMS each day. I am proud to continue working alongside our outstanding students, staff, and families as we build an even brighter future together.” Cleveland City Schools looks forward to Mrs. Raper’s continued leadership at Cleveland Middle School and to welcoming Mr. Akiona to the Yates Primary School community. These leadership updates reflect the district’s continued commitment to strong relationships, meaningful service, and student success across Cleveland City Schools.

Cleveland City Schools Announces Leadership Updates at Cleveland Middle School and Yates Primary School

May 22, 2026
Cleveland City Schools is proud to announce two leadership updates within the district. Mr. Nat Akiona has been named the next principal of Yates Primary School, and Mrs. Emily R...
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7 Silver teachers enjoy cheesecakes compliments of Sweet Emmaline’s

From Classroom to Cheesecake: A Sweet Lesson in Real-World Math

February 20, 2026
Bringing Real-World Math Into the Classroom Cleveland Middle School’s 7 Silver Team experienced a meaningful and engaging math lesson as Brian and Emily Patterson of Sweet E...
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Cleveland Middle School Beta Club Earns National Championship at BETACON 2025 Students claim 1st in the nation for Project Proposal, place 2nd in Robotics, and secure multiple Top 10 national finishes Cleveland Middle School is proud to announce that its Beta Club students brought home top honors from the 2025 National Beta Convention (BETACON), held in Orlando, Florida. Competing against students from across the country, the CMS Beta Club earned a 1st place national title in Project Proposal, along with 2nd place in Robotics and several other Top 10 national recognitions. The Project Proposal team earned national champion status with their original initiative, the AdvICE CREAM Podcast, a collaborative effort with residents of Avail Senior Living. Through a series of thoughtful interviews and audio storytelling, students highlighted the wisdom and life experiences of senior citizens, sharing their insights with younger generations in an innovative and impactful format. Additional honors earned by Cleveland Middle students at the national level include: 2nd Place – Robotics 10th Place – Lead Outside the Box Featuring the student-designed app concept “Hey Raider!”, focused on peer support and student engagement 9th Place – Collaboration Connection Team 7th Place – Academic Social Studies Test 7th Place – Duo Variety Performance “These students exemplify what it means to lead, serve, and innovate,” said CMS Principal Nat Akiona. “We are incredibly proud of their dedication and creativity, and grateful to our faculty sponsors, families, and community partners who supported their journey.” The National Beta Club promotes academic achievement, character, service, and leadership among students across the United States. Cleveland Middle School has consistently demonstrated excellence in these areas, and this year’s achievements further reflect the strength of its student leaders and educators. As the new school year approaches, Cleveland Middle School celebrates not just the trophies and rankings, but the collaboration, community impact, and real-world learning that these projects represent.

Cleveland Middle School Beta Club Earns National Championship at BETACON 2025

July 9, 2025
Cleveland Middle School is proud to announce that its Beta Club students brought home top honors from the 2025 National Beta Convention (BETACON), held in Orlando, Florida. Compet...
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Novice Teacher of the Year

Cleveland City Schools Honors Exceptional Educators: Jordan Wagers and Lindsey Scott

September 11, 2024
Cleveland City Schools is proud to recognize two outstanding educators, Jordan Wagers and Lindsey Scott, both graduates of Lee University, for their exceptional contributions to e...
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Cleveland City Schools Receives National Recognition for Excellence in Communication

June 26, 2024
Cleveland City Schools has been recognized by the National School of Public Relations Association (NSPRA) with the prestigious Golden Achievement Award. This honor was awarded for...
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Randy Stephens Chosen as Next Supervisor of Career and Technical Education

June 21, 2024
Cleveland City Schools is proud to announce the appointment of Mr. Randy Stephens as its next Supervisor of Career and Technical Education. Mr. Stephens’ extensive experience as a...
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Cleveland City Board of Education Meeting June 10

June 9, 2024
The Cleveland City Board of Education will meet on Monday, June 10th at 5:30 p.m. at the Administrative Office Building (AOB). You can view the full agenda here.
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Students giving a presentation on Blind, Deaf, and Mute Cooking

Cleveland City Schools CTE Newsletter

June 3, 2024
If you are having trouble viewing the document, you may download the document.
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Renny Whittenbarger, Supervisor of Career and Technical Education, Announces Retirement After 26 Years

May 16, 2024
After decades of dedicated service, Renny Whittenbarger, Supervisor of Career and Technical Education (CTE) for Cleveland City Schools, has announced his retirement following the ...
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Supporting Student Mental Health in Cleveland City Schools

May 15, 2024
Supporting Student Mental Health in CCS The month of May is Mental Health Awareness month, a national observance that started in 1949 by Mental Health America to bring attention...
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Cleveland City Board Names Dr. Jeff Elliott as Next Director of Schools

May 7, 2024
Following a special-called meeting on Tuesday, the Cleveland City Board announced the appointment of Dr. Jeff Elliott as the next Director of Schools for Cleveland City Schools. D...
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Cleveland City Board of Education Approves 2024-2025 Budget, Includes 5% Salary Increase for Full-Time Staff

May 7, 2024
During its monthly board meeting on Monday, the Cleveland City Board of Education approved the budget for the 2024-2025 school year. Notably, this budget includes a 5% pay increas...
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Cleveland City Schools Named 2023-2024 Capturing Kids' Hearts National Showcase Schools® District Award Winner

May 6, 2024
Cleveland City Schools is proud to announce its recognition as a 2023-2024 Capturing Kids' Hearts National Showcase Schools District award winner. Cleveland City Schools is the fi...
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CMS Open House May 9th from 4:00 - 7:00 PM

Cleveland Middle Open House: Athletics Fair & 5th Grade Schedules

May 2, 2024
Cleveland Middle School is set to host the Blue Raider Class of 2031 on Thursday, May 9th at our annual open house event. Doors will open at 4:00 P.M. and close at 7:00. Che...
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Universal Screening for Behavioral, Social, and Emotional Support for Students

April 23, 2024
Universal Screening for Behavioral, Social, and Emotional Support As part of our commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment, Cleveland City Schools wi...
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Double Honors for Cleveland City Schools in Athletic Administration

April 23, 2024
Cleveland City Schools is excited to share a double celebration of excellence in athletic administration at Cleveland Middle School. Derek V. Morris, Assistant Athletic Director...
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Cleveland City Board of Education Announces Three Finalists for Director of Schools Position

April 22, 2024
The Cleveland City Board of Education is pleased to announce the selection of three finalists for the role of Director of Schools. After an extensive search process, the Board ha...
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Universal Screening for Social and Emotional Learning & Support

April 17, 2024
As part of our commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment, Cleveland City Schools will implement a universal behavior screener that will support behavio...
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Launch into Learning: Cleveland City Schools Opens Enrollment for 2024 Summer Programs

April 1, 2024
Did you know Cleveland City Schools offers a fun summer curriculum and learning for students at many grade levels? It's a great opportunity to make sure students are ready for su...
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