U.S. News & World Report has released its 2026 Best Elementary and Middle Schools rankings, once again showcasing how schools across Alabama compare on a national stage.

The publication, widely known for its education rankings, analyzed data from nearly 47,000 elementary schools and more than 23,000 middle schools across the country—including almost 600 elementary and 420 middle schools here in Alabama.

Rankings were determined using state test results in reading (2022–23) and math (2021–22), with adjustments to account for student background and performance. U.S. News also considered overall proficiency levels and student-teacher ratios when breaking ties.

“These rankings highlight institutions that excel in fostering student achievement and providing exceptional learning environments for all,” said LaMont Jones, U.S. News Education Editor.

We’re proud to share that Cullman Middle School has been recognized as the #8 public middle school in Alabama, reflecting the hard work of our students, teachers, and staff. This recognition underscores our ongoing commitment to academic excellence and to providing every Bearcat with the tools to learn, grow, and succeed.

At the October Board Meeting, we recognized employees and students from Cullman Middle School. The recognitions included Mrs. Kylie Bates for her outstanding contributions as an 8th grade math teacher, Mrs. Jana Grimes for her dedication as an instructional assistant in our special needs classroom, and 8th grade student, Bella Moore, for her leadership, kindness and positivity.

Congratulations to Mrs. Richter and the Art students listed below for their accomplishments at the Oktoberfest and County Fair Art Competitions!

The Cullman Band Program performed at the 42nd Annual Cullman County Band Exhibition on Saturday, October 4th. This event was a great opportunity for all the bands in Cullman County to come together and play their shows for each other and the audience in attendance.

The CMS Marching Band also participated in the 2025 Fair Parade this month!

Congratulations to the Junior High Cross-Country teams!  The girls placed 8th out of 24 teams, and the boys 9th overall out of 24 teams for the North Alabama Jr. High Gold Championships earlier this month.

Congratulations to our Cross-Country girls for winning the 6A section 5 Championship yesterday!  Madeline Stidham won 2nd place overall with a time of 19:55, which is the 7th fastest time in school history! Callie Pugh placed 17th, and Tinley Alldredge placed 21st.

All of our basketball teams are off to a great start this season! The 7th and 8th grade boys teams are undefeated, and the girls team's only loss was by one point in overtime!

Thank you to all of our students and parents for being patient with our drop-off and pick-up procedures! We have drastically decreased the amount of time it takes to complete pick-up in the afternoons, but we still have some students who are not looking for their rides. We ask that all of our students pay attention and look for their ride as they wait to be picked up after school.

Parents, please use all three lanes for drop-off and pick-up so we can minimize the number of cars backed up onto 2nd Avenue. We also ask that you not merge into another lane until you reach the end of 9th Street. All vehicles will merge as you turn left onto 4th Avenue.