Kindergarten students at Clays Mill Elementary School recently explored foundational coding concepts thanks to a mini-grant funded by the Halifax County Public Schools Education Foundation.
Students were introduced to coding through an interactive “Simon Says” activity, where they acted as robots and practiced following step-by-step directions. Through this experience, students learned about sequencing, the importance of clear instructions, and how computer “bugs” can interrupt a program—and how debugging helps fix mistakes.
Students then applied their understanding by programming Coding Critters. As they tested commands and revised their instructions, they strengthened problem-solving skills and learned that mistakes are part of the learning process.
The lesson was facilitated by Khaela Powell, ITRT.
Students were introduced to coding through an interactive “Simon Says” activity, where they acted as robots and practiced following step-by-step directions. Through this experience, students learned about sequencing, the importance of clear instructions, and how computer “bugs” can interrupt a program—and how debugging helps fix mistakes.
Students then applied their understanding by programming Coding Critters. As they tested commands and revised their instructions, they strengthened problem-solving skills and learned that mistakes are part of the learning process.
The lesson was facilitated by Khaela Powell, ITRT.
Oh, The Places We’ll Go… Right Here in the Library!
"The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go!"
This March, Clays Mill Elementary is diving headfirst into the wonderful world of Dr. Seuss and Read Across America. We’re celebrating the power of imagination and the lifelong habit of reading. Join us for a week of "Seuss-tastic" fun!
When: March 3-6
Spirit Week: Check out our daily dress-up themes (from Crazy Socks to Cat in the Hat!).
Grab a book, find a cozy nook, and let’s get reading!
"The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go!"
This March, Clays Mill Elementary is diving headfirst into the wonderful world of Dr. Seuss and Read Across America. We’re celebrating the power of imagination and the lifelong habit of reading. Join us for a week of "Seuss-tastic" fun!
When: March 3-6
Spirit Week: Check out our daily dress-up themes (from Crazy Socks to Cat in the Hat!).
Grab a book, find a cozy nook, and let’s get reading!
Mrs. Martin's class recently celebrated the 100th Day of School by creating projects to show off 100 items. Everyone did a great job!
Interim reports for the third nine weeks are available for viewing on the Campus Portal. If you need assistance with the portal or need a paper copy of the report, please contact your child's school.
Recently, students in Mrs. Torian's class celebrated the 100th Day of School!
Clays Mill Elementary School held a very special family literacy night to celebrate Valentine's Day. The theme of the event was "Spreading Kindness" to everyone in our community. Students listened to the book, "Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch", which is a heartwarming story about connection and friendship.
After the story discussion, students either made a Valentine's card or a heart painting. These crafts were donated to the residents of both South Boston Health and Rehab and Commonwealth Assisted Living as a way to "spread kindness" in our community.
More Photos:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1i4sJknz8NJBtVCG6HXS31j-L4MA9Q0Gn?usp=drive_link
After the story discussion, students either made a Valentine's card or a heart painting. These crafts were donated to the residents of both South Boston Health and Rehab and Commonwealth Assisted Living as a way to "spread kindness" in our community.
More Photos:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1i4sJknz8NJBtVCG6HXS31j-L4MA9Q0Gn?usp=drive_link
All schools and offices will be closed Monday, February 16, 2026 in observance of Presidents' Day.
January Students of the Month!
The Halifax County School Board voted last night to make the originally scheduled early release dates of March 19, 2026 and April 3, 2026 full instructional days.
Building Clean Out
♥️ Show Love and Kindness Online ♥️
This Valentine’s season, remind your child that what they share online lasts longer than candy hearts! Even if something is deleted, unkind words or images can stay online and continue to hurt others.
✨ Tech Tip:
Encourage your child to spread kindness online by sending a positive message or compliment to a friend, classmate, or family member.
Remind them that small, kind actions online can brighten someone’s day—just like a real-life Valentine!
🌐 Helpful Website:
Canva for Kids – www.canva.com
Your child can create and send free digital valentines to friends and family while learning how to share love and creativity responsibly online.
💖 Remember:
Digital footprints last forever, but so does kindness. Let’s fill our feeds with encouragement, positivity, and love this month!
This Valentine’s season, remind your child that what they share online lasts longer than candy hearts! Even if something is deleted, unkind words or images can stay online and continue to hurt others.
✨ Tech Tip:
Encourage your child to spread kindness online by sending a positive message or compliment to a friend, classmate, or family member.
Remind them that small, kind actions online can brighten someone’s day—just like a real-life Valentine!
🌐 Helpful Website:
Canva for Kids – www.canva.com
Your child can create and send free digital valentines to friends and family while learning how to share love and creativity responsibly online.
💖 Remember:
Digital footprints last forever, but so does kindness. Let’s fill our feeds with encouragement, positivity, and love this month!
Halifax County Public Schools will operate on a two-hour delay tomorrow, Monday, February 9, 2026. Twelve -month employees follow code 2, report two hours late.
All after school and evening activities are cancelled for today, Friday, February 6, 2026.
Music Program Showcase
Halifax County Public Schools will operate on a two-hour delay tomorrow, Friday, February 6, 2026. The normal bus routes will be followed. Twelve-month employees follow code 2, report two hours late.
Clays Mill Elementary School recently hosted a very special Title 1 Family Literacy Night called "Arctic Express" with the Amazing Teacher, Steve Somers. Using well-known children's literature, Conductor Steve, introduced students to various winter celebrations from around the world. In addition, the presentation offered a wonderful mix of audience interaction and surprising illusions. This well-attended event was an enjoyable experience for all.
All K-5 students and families are invited to our Title 1 event on Monday, February 9th! Please plan to attend, whether you have sent an RSVP or not. This is such a sweet and meaningful event - giving back to our community! Join us!
ALERT: NEW DATE!
On Thursday, February 12, 2026, there will be an event titled Blueprints for Dreams: Building Our Future Together. Students in grades 5-11 and their parents are invited to attend the event at HCHS from 5:30 PM- 7:00 PM. The presenters will provide a lot of valuable information for students and parents about secondary education. A general session will be offered that includes information about courses, diploma types, graduation requirements, certifications, and much more! Tables will be set up for guests to visit for content areas and electives. Staff including teachers, school counselors, and administrators will be available to answer specific questions about courses, career pathways, etc. Selected students will also be in attendance to share course highlights and other information they feel is valuable for other students.
The first one hundred attendees will receive a free BBQ meal with sides, a dessert, and drink. There will also be drawings for door prizes!
Doors will open at 5:15 PM.
If you are a student in grades 5-11 or a parent of a student in grades 5-11, you don't want to miss this event! It will be very informative and exciting for all!
We look forward to seeing you there!
On Thursday, February 12, 2026, there will be an event titled Blueprints for Dreams: Building Our Future Together. Students in grades 5-11 and their parents are invited to attend the event at HCHS from 5:30 PM- 7:00 PM. The presenters will provide a lot of valuable information for students and parents about secondary education. A general session will be offered that includes information about courses, diploma types, graduation requirements, certifications, and much more! Tables will be set up for guests to visit for content areas and electives. Staff including teachers, school counselors, and administrators will be available to answer specific questions about courses, career pathways, etc. Selected students will also be in attendance to share course highlights and other information they feel is valuable for other students.
The first one hundred attendees will receive a free BBQ meal with sides, a dessert, and drink. There will also be drawings for door prizes!
Doors will open at 5:15 PM.
If you are a student in grades 5-11 or a parent of a student in grades 5-11, you don't want to miss this event! It will be very informative and exciting for all!
We look forward to seeing you there!
Due to the road conditions, Halifax County Public Schools will be closed tomorrow, Thursday, February 5, 2026. This will be a remote learning day for students and a work from home day for all staff.
Phone calls are not being sent tonight because of the time. They will be sent in the morning.
Phone calls are not being sent tonight because of the time. They will be sent in the morning.
