Good Afternoon Tiger Family,
I hope everyone is enjoying the weekend and feeling excited for the upcoming holidays! As we approach Thanksgiving break, I wanted to share a few important updates and reminders.
With this being our last full week of school before the Thanksgiving holiday, there will not be a Sunday message next Sunday, November 24. We hope you enjoy a restful Thanksgiving break with time spent surrounded by family, friends, and loved ones. Weekly updates resume on Sunday, December 1.
Tiger Paw After-School Tutoring
After-school tutoring is in full swing this week. All students are welcome to attend, and transportation will be provided.
Please note: There will be no tutoring on Thursday, November 21, due to a previously scheduled meeting.
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.
Reading Makes Cents
Did you know that your student could potentially win $529 for their post-high school education just for reading?
WGMS is participating in the statewide Reading Makes Cents reading program. This challenge is sponsored by Virginia529, who will be awarding 14 lucky students with a $529 college savings account.
What do students need to do? Read (or be read to!) five of the books on the list. See Mrs. Moore in the library for more information. All entries will be due in April.
For more information, please review the linked flyer.
Bus Behavior
Proper behavior is required on the school bus to ensure everyone's safety.
Students must:
Follow the driver’s instructions.
Stay seated and keep the aisles clear.
Speak respectfully and avoid disruptions.
Failure to follow bus rules will result in suspension or loss of bus privileges.
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.
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 note 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.
Upcoming Dates to Remember
November 20 @ 5 PM: Fall Sports Banquet in the Cafeteria
November 26 @ 12 PM: Early Dismissal
November 27-29: School Not in Session (Thanksgiving Break)
GWES Mascot Survey
It is not too late to submit 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 last day to submit a mascot suggestion is this Wednesday, November 20.
Survey Link:
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.
Spirit Gear
Show your Tiger pride with our school spirit gear! Grab yours today and wear it proudly.
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 (English).pdf
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 attached to this message to purchase a replacement.
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 parap
rofessionals
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 | TBD — Title I Ms. Sarah Cook — Math | (540) 372-1115 |
Lafayette Elementary School | Mrs. Courtney Wheeler — Title 1; 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!