PK–12 Public Schools · Hot Springs, Arkansas

Our schools

CMS High School

Grades 7–12 in Hot Springs, Arkansas—rigorous academics, Eagle athletics, fine arts, and pathways that prepare students for college, career, and life after graduation.

What we believe

At Cutter Morning Star, learning is about more than academics —

it is about belonging.

Welcome

Where students grow into confident young adults.

CMS High School is home to our district’s seventh through twelfth graders—the next chapter after elementary, still on the same Spring Street campus family. Students take challenging coursework, explore career and college options, and represent the Eagles in athletics, band, and activities across Garland County.

Our staff knows students by name and pushes them to aim high while offering support when life gets complicated. Whether your family is new to CMS or continuing the Eagle journey from elementary, we want you to feel welcome in our halls.

Explore enrollment Meet our team
Cutter Morning Star High School campus

Campus leadership

People who guide our secondary campus

Our principal and office team coordinate instruction, discipline, activities, and day-to-day support for students and families.

Portrait of Karen Heatherly, high school principal

Karen Heatherly

Principal

Mrs. Heatherly leads CMS High School with a focus on academic rigor, student accountability, and strong communication with families. Contact her office when you have questions about schedules, policies, or your student’s high school experience.

karen.heatherly@cmseagles.net

View the full high school faculty & staff directory.

At a glance

CMS High School by the numbers

7–12

Middle and high school on one secondary campus, with coursework that builds toward graduation and what comes next.

298

Students enrolled—large enough for teams, clubs, and variety; small enough that staff still know who you are.

Eagles

Athletics, band, CTE, and activities give students ways to compete, perform, and lead before they graduate.

Enrollment figures update annually. View school data on My School Info.

Student experience

What high school students find at CMS

Academics come first—and students also have room to compete, create, serve, and prepare for adulthood.

Academics

Rigorous coursework across core subjects, with support for students working toward graduation and post-secondary goals.

Athletics

Eagle teams in football, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, and more—schedules and news at CMS Eagles Athletics.

Fine arts

Band, choir, art, and performance opportunities that let students express creativity and represent CMS with pride.

Pathways

Career and technical education, college planning, and partnerships—including opportunities through National Park College for eligible students.

Support & opportunities

Programs that help students thrive

Beyond the classroom, CMS High School connects students with counselors, coaches, and district resources.

Counseling

Academic planning, social-emotional support, and guidance as students navigate schedules, credits, and life after high school.

Career coaching

Help exploring careers, workplace skills, and the steps that connect school to jobs, training, or college.

Health services

Nursing support on campus for illness, injury, and wellness needs during the school day.

CTE & arts

Career and technical education, art, and hands-on learning that build real skills students can use after graduation.

Library

Research, reading, and study resources that support coursework across grade levels.

CMS high school students

Visit & contact

Come see our high school campus.

The best way to understand CMS High School is to visit campus, meet teachers and coaches, and ask about courses, activities, and graduation requirements. We welcome School Choice families and current parents who want to see where students spend their day.

Contact us Eagles athletics

Explore CMS

More for families

Our team Faculty & staff
Grades PK–6 CMS Elementary
Athletics Athletics hub
Calendar Events

Considering CMS for grades 7–12?

Our admissions team can explain School Choice, help you plan a campus visit, and answer questions about courses and graduation requirements.

Apply / get started (501) 262-2414