Good Afternoon, Tiger Family,
This is your principal, Mr. Ventura, with your weekly update. I hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful weekend and is ready for the upcoming four-day week! Here are a few key updates and reminders for the week ahead.
Veterans' Day Reminder
In observance of Veterans' Day, there will be no school on Monday, November 11. Please take a moment to honor and thank a veteran for their dedication and service.
WGMS PTO Meeting
We're excited to invite you to our first Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) meeting of the school year! This is a great chance to connect, share ideas, and support our school community.
WHEN: Tuesday, November 12
TIME: 5:30 - 6:30 PM
WHERE: WGMS Library
Hope to see you there!
GWES Mascot Survey
Beginning, this Wednesday, November 13, please take a moment to make a suggestion for the Gladys West Elementary School Mascot. The new elementary school will open in August 2025 and is looking for mascot suggestions. The survey link can be found on our school and division websites. The last day to submit a mascot suggestion is Wednesday, November 20.
Survey response collection link: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=nOtJEi86KECeR4iL0tXrz3ke9khGIShAruTI3hCTfuVUMDJOMFMwRFE3Q01LQ05SR0ZTUE1XMzg0WS4u
Tiger Paw After-School Tutoring
After-school tutoring continues this week. All are welcome and transportation will be provided.
Intentional Computer Damage on the Rise
We’ve noticed an increase in intentionally damaged computers at WGMS. Your support in keeping our technology safe is vital. Families are responsible for up to $560 for replacements in these cases. Please review the linked school board policy for more details. Policy JN
No Play Fighting
At Walker-Grant Middle School, student safety is our priority. We want to remind everyone that play fighting is not acceptable. While playful activities are natural, any behavior resembling fighting will not be tolerated.
Pajamas, Slippers, and Blankets Not Allowed at School
Please not that students are not allowed to wear pajamas, slippers, or bring blankets to school. If they arrive with these items, they will be asked to change, and blankets will be collected for pickup at the front office.
Punctuality and Consistent Attendance
Just a quick reminder about the importance of punctuality, school begins promptly at 7:35 AM, and arriving on time truly helps set a positive tone for the day. Please continue to inform us of any absences due to illness or unforeseen circumstances. Attendance Notes
Upcoming Dates to Remember
November 11: School Not in Session (Veterans' Day holiday)
November 12 @ 5:30 PM: First PTO Meeting in the Library
November 15: After-School Clubs Meeting
November 20 @ 5 PM: Falls Sports Banquet in the Cafeteria
November 26: Early Dismissal
November 27-29: School Not in Session (Thanksgiving Break)
SpeakUp for Safety
The new SpeakUp for Safety tipline for students in grades 6 through 12 is now live. This confidential resource allows students to report bullying, threats, or safety concerns via email, text, or phone.
If you have an urgent concern, you can call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you witness or have information about a crime or potential crime, you can text "FPD Tip" to 847-411 to send an anonymous tip to Fredericksburg Police.
FCPS Mental Health Resource Website
Please take a moment to explore the FCPS Mental Health Resource Website. It provides helpful information and access to community resources to support our students and families. Your awareness and sharing of these resources can make a difference! Mental Health Resource Website
Afternoon Pick-Up Procedures
Please notify the school office if your child’s afternoon procedure changes. Use the link provided. No changes are accepted by phone, and all changes must be submitted before 2:15 PM. Transportation Form
Spirit Gear
Show your Tiger pride with our school spirit gear! Grab yours today and wear it proudly. W-GMS Spirit Gear
ParentSquare
If you haven't already, please activate your ParentSquare account to stay up to date on all of the happenings at WGMS. You can access ParentSquare on any device by downloading the free mobile app or by visiting www.parentsquare.com.
Parent_Guardian - Getting Started Guide (Spanish).pdf
Student Laptop Charger
Is your student in need of a new laptop charger? If so, please use the link to this message to purchase a replacement: https://fxbg.link/3w9Z2Hv
Title I
Title I is the largest federal aid program for elementary, middle, and high schools. Through Title I, the federal government designates money to school districts around the country based on the number of students in need in each district. Each district uses its Title I money for extra educational services for children, such as:
Class size reduction
Additional teachers and paraprofessionals
Parent resources
Instructional materials and supplies
Tier 2 and Tier 3 support services
The focus of the Title I program is to ensure all students meet challenging content and achievement standards. Title I also authorizes federal grant programs that provide funds for reading instruction, services to migrant children, services to neglected and delinquent children, comprehensive school reform, and dropout prevention.
All FCPS students in grades K-8 are eligible to receive programs funded through the Title I grant.
School | Principal | Assistant Principals | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
Hugh Mercer Elementary School | Dr. James Snyder — English | Mr. William Wishard — Title I Ms. Sarah Cook — Math | (540) 372-1115 |
Lafayette Elementary School | Mrs. Courtney Wheeler — Title I & Math | Ms. Pam Diggs Mr. Tony Lewis — English | (540) 310-0029 |
Walker-Grant Middle School | Mr. Stephen Ventura | Mrs. Emma Brown — English Dr. Kisha Frye — Title I & Math | (540) 372-1145 |
Thank You
Thank you for your continued support and here is to another great week ahead!
Go Tigers!