Principal

Mr. Michael Heitzman

Ben Hill Middle School Principal, Ed. S.

Ben Hill Middle School Family

What was the biggest/best story at BHMS last year?

In a meeting recently, our superintendent Mr. Stevie Harden declared that last year Ben Hill Middle School had the best Georgia Milestone test scores that he had ever seen. That is a testament to the hard work of our students, our staff, and our parents. For 2025/2026, we plan to continue this success.

At Ben Hill Middle, we live our mission which is to “instill a desire in ALL to take ownership of their learning.” We have seen our students truly embrace the opportunity to be successful at BHMS. We hope that by the time our students leave for FHSCCA, they are preparing for college, a career, or the military.

What are you most proud of about the year?

According to our resident historian, Mrs. Debbie Hamlin, I am now the longest tenured BHMS principal having served for four consecutive years in the position. As we prepare to open school for the 2025/2026 school year, I have been reminded that this occupation is truly a calling.

I have been called to be a light for our students. I am called to show them a better path for their future. I am called to show them love, kindness, and self-control. Every staff member at BHMS has made a commitment to stand in the gap for our students daily as we educate them and grow them through some of the more challenging years of their lives.

To answer the question, I am most proud to be living my calling.

Will students find changes this year — in procedures, facilities or requirements?

We have not made any significant changes to our procedures and processes. Students may find a few minor changes but nothing significant.

We will spend the first week of school teaching our expectations for all aspects of the school day and building relationships with our students.

Any new programs?

We offer fifteen athletic sports, fine arts, three business organizations and over twenty-five clubs.

We plan to have a student talent-show this year.

We have also received a federal grant for an after school program for 60 students which includes transportation home. Parents can receive more information about this program at open house and grade level orientations.

How many students are you expecting?

We are expecting to have around 550 students on the first day of school.

What would you like students who will be in their first year there to know?

Here are my expectations for students. Come to school. Come rested. Arrive on time. Be prepared to work and be prepared to learn.

Our staff is passionate about the opportunity (and calling) that they have to help you learn!  

What would you like to tell their parents?

My oldest child Jace just completed his time at BHMS. When he entered our school, he had some learning difficulties. In his time at Ben Hill Middle School, he has gained confidence, tons of skills, and has taken ownership of learning. Upon leaving BHMS, he became one of the top students in his class in terms of grades and performance on the Georgia Milestones.

I share that to tell you that we desire the exact same thing for your child. We are a family and we are committed to helping your child achieve their dreams. Please partner with us to ensure that this happens.

You are ALWAYS welcome at BHMS. We want you to be active in your child’s learning journey.

Please never hesitate to reach out. My office number is 229-409-5573 and my email is michael.heitzman@benhillschools.org.

What is most important to success at your school?

Come to school. Come rested. Arrive on time. Be prepared to work and be prepared to learn.

What extracurricular activities can students enjoy?

●     Athletics: Football, cheerleading, sideline cheer, softball, cross country, boys basketball, girls basketball, basketball cheer, wrestling, swimming, baseball, boys soccer, girls soccer, tennis, and track

●     Fine Arts: chorus and band

●     Business Organizations: TSA, FFA, and FCCLA

●     Over 25 clubs that meet twice a month

What are your goals for BHMS this year?

Our goal is to make Ben Hill Middle School the best school in Georgia in terms of whole child development, academics, attendance, climate/ culture, and extracurricular activities. We are well on our way!

 

Please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely, 

Michael Heitzman

Ben Hill Middle School Principal, Ed. S.
michael.heitzman@benhillschools.org