A Message From Our Superintendent

November 2026

Dear Cloudcroft Bears,

As we enter November, we find ourselves approaching one of the most meaningful times of the school year—a season of gratitude, reflection, and community. There is much to celebrate throughout Cloudcroft Municipal Schools, and I am continually reminded of what makes our small district so special: our students, our dedicated staff, our supportive families, and the pride we share in being Cloudcroft Bears.

National Honor Society Induction Ceremony

We are incredibly proud of our Cloudcroft High School students who were recently inducted into the National Honor Society (NHS). This special ceremony recognizes students who have demonstrated excellence in the four pillars of the National Honor Society: Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character. These distinguished scholars represent more than academic achievement; they exemplify the values of integrity, responsibility, compassion, and a commitment to serving others. Their dedication to their education, their school, and their community reflects the very best of what we strive to instill in our Cloudcroft Bears. We congratulate our newest NHS members and commend them for earning this prestigious honor. We also extend our appreciation to the teachers, advisors, and families who have supported and encouraged these students along the way. We are proud of these young leaders and look forward to the positive impact they will continue to make in our school, our community, and beyond.

Fall Athletics and the Transition to Winter Sports

As our fall athletic seasons begin to wind down, excitement continues to build as our student-athletes compete in District competition and work toward postseason playoff opportunities. Cross country, football, and volleyball have provided our students with opportunities to demonstrate their athletic abilities, determination, teamwork, and school pride. District competition and playoff opportunities represent the culmination of months of hard work, preparation, and dedication, and we are proud of the commitment our Bears have demonstrated throughout the season.

I extend my appreciation to our coaches, student-athletes, families, and community members who have dedicated countless hours to supporting our Bears throughout the fall season. Whether celebrating victories or learning from challenges, our students continue to represent Cloudcroft with determination and pride.

As one season comes to a close, another exciting season begins! Basketball practices officially begin November 16, 2026. We look forward to another exciting season of Bear basketball and encourage our community to come out and support our student-athletes.

Important November Dates

• November 2: Parent-Teacher Conferences, all schools
• November 3: NO SCHOOL (Election Day); Volleyball @ Home
• November 4: FFA Discussion Meet
• November 10: Winter Sports Parent Meeting
• November 11: Veterans Day Assembly
• November 16: Fall Sports Banquet
• November 18: Dual Credit Orientation
• November 19: Thanksgiving Luncheon, Blood Drive, 4-H Meeting
• November 23–27: Thanksgiving Break

Please continue to check the CMS school calendar for the most current dates, events, and schedule information. Visit our Athletics page for up-to-date schedules and, if you don’t already, follow us on Facebook for announcements, photos, and community connections.

Parent, Teacher, and Student Conferences: K–12, November 2

Our upcoming Parent, Teacher, and Student Conferences provide an important opportunity to strengthen the partnership between home and school. These conversations allow families, teachers, and students to celebrate academic successes, discuss areas for improvement, and establish goals for continued growth.

Education is most successful when students, families, and educators work together with a shared commitment to learning. I encourage our families to take advantage of these opportunities, ask questions, and remain actively engaged in their child’s education. Our students benefit tremendously when they recognize that their success is a priority both at home and at school.

Honoring Our Veterans — November 11

On November 11, our District will recognize Veterans Day with a special Veterans Assembly. This is an important opportunity for our students to honor the men and women who have served our country and to better understand the sacrifices made to preserve the freedoms we enjoy.

Our veterans represent courage, commitment, sacrifice, and service. To each and every veteran, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. We are especially proud of our former Cloudcroft students who have answered the call to serve our country in the United States Armed Forces. These former Bears carry with them the values of dedication, integrity, and service that we strive to instill in every student. Whether currently serving or having completed their military service, they hold a special place in our school community, and we are grateful for their commitment to our nation. I appreciate the opportunity our schools provide for students to learn the importance of patriotism, respect for our country, and gratitude toward those who have served. We look forward to welcoming and honoring our veterans, including those who once walked the halls of Cloudcroft Municipal Schools, during this meaningful occasion. We warmly invite our veterans, families, and community members to join us as we celebrate and honor these remarkable men and women who have given so much in service to our nation.

Thanksgiving Lunch — November 19

One of our cherished traditions is the opportunity to come together for our District’s Thanksgiving Lunch, scheduled for Thursday, November 19.

There is something special about sharing a meal with our school community. These moments remind us that our schools are more than classrooms and hallways; they are places where relationships are built, traditions are celebrated, and lasting memories are made.

I especially want to recognize our food service staff and everyone who helps make this occasion possible. Preparing and serving a Thanksgiving meal requires considerable planning, hard work, and dedication, and we are grateful for the care they put into making this day special for our students and families.

Thanksgiving Break: November 23–27

Cloudcroft Municipal Schools will observe Thanksgiving Break from November 23 through November 27.

Thanksgiving has always been a special time to reflect on our blessings, but perhaps its greatest gift is the opportunity to slow down and enjoy the people who matter most. In the busyness of everyday life, we sometimes forget how precious those simple moments can be—gathering around a table, sharing stories, enjoying laughter, and creating memories with family and friends.

My hope is that our students, families, and staff take this time to rest, reconnect, and enjoy the simple joys of being together. The holiday season reminds us that while our work is important, the love and relationships we share with family and friends are truly among life’s greatest blessings.

Christmas Program — December 2

As we return from Thanksgiving Break, we will quickly welcome the excitement of the Christmas season. Our Christmas Program is scheduled for Wednesday, December 2 at 5:30 p.m., and we look forward to celebrating the talents and enthusiasm of our students.

School Christmas programs are among the traditions that make small communities like Cloudcroft so special. They bring families together, showcase our students, and create wonderful memories that often last well beyond the school years.

I appreciate our teachers, staff, and students for the time and effort they put into preparing these performances. We look forward to a wonderful celebration of the season.

Closing Thoughts

As we enter this season of Thanksgiving, I am reminded that the strength of Cloudcroft Municipal Schools is not measured solely by academic accomplishments, athletic achievements, or the programs we offer. It is also reflected in the relationships we build, the opportunities we provide, and the genuine care we demonstrate for one another.

I am thankful for the privilege of serving this District and for the many people who make Cloudcroft Municipal Schools such a special place.

To our Board of Education, staff, students, families, and community, I wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with peace, laughter, gratitude, and the joy of family.

Happy Fall, Cloudcroft, and Let’s Go Bears!

Jocelyne Driscoll-Gillespie

Jocelyne Driscoll-Gillespie
Superintendent
Cloudcroft Municipal Schools