Walker-Grant Middle School

Good Afternoon, Tiger Family,

As we begin benchmark testing this week, I encourage you to support your child in taking these assessments seriously. These tests will be graded and will contribute to their Q2 final grade. They also provide valuable insights that help our teachers identify areas where additional support may be needed.

Please remind your child of the importance of staying focused and doing their best—your encouragement really does make a big difference!

Now, here are a few important announcements and updates for the week ahead:

Early Dismissal Reminder

On Tuesday, December 10, students will be dismissed at 12 PM. Please plan accordingly for this schedule adjustment.

Quarter 2 Benchmark Tests

Quarter 2 Benchmark testing will begin tomorrow, on Monday, December 9. To help your child do their best, please encourage them to review and study the material covered in class. Additionally, ensure they bring their fully charged laptop to school each day to demonstrate all they have learned.

For more details, please see the linked testing calendar to this email message: Q2 Benchmark Testing Schedule

School is for Learning

Negative talk or any mention of harm has no place at Walker-Grant. School is a space for learning, not drama, and we appreciate your help in reinforcing this with our students.

Promoting Positive Hallway Behavior

To ensure safe and efficient transitions between classes, we ask for your support in reminding students to:

• Go directly to their next class without stopping.

• Walk calmly, avoiding running or horseplay.

• Keep hands to themselves.

Inappropriate behavior during transitions will result in administration contacting families to help support their students in meeting these expectations.

Bus Behavior Expectations

Maintaining safety on the school bus is non-negotiable. All students must:

• Follow the driver’s instructions at all times.

• Stay seated and keep aisles clear.

• Speak respectfully and avoid disruptive behavior.

• Refrain from fighting or any form of physical aggression.

Failure to adhere to these rules will result in the loss of bus privileges.

WGMS PTO Meeting

We're excited to invite you to our upcoming Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) meeting! Join us for an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and support our school community.

WHEN: Tuesday, December 10
TIME: 6:30 - 7:30 PM
WHERE: WGMS Library

We hope you’ll join us-your involvement makes a difference!

Upcoming Dates to Remember

• December 9 @ 4:30 PM: Boys' Basketball home game against Prospect Heights

• December 9-20: Q2 Benchmark Testing (Q2 Benchmark Testing Schedule)

• December 10 @ 12 PM: Early Dismissal

• December 10 @ 6:30-7:30 PM: December PTO Meeting @ WGMS Library

• December 11 @ 7-9 PM: Winter Orchestra and Choir Concert @ JM

• December 12 @ 6-8 PM: Winter Band Concert @ WGMS Gym

• December 12 @ 4:30: Boys' Basketball away game against Locust Grove @ 4:30 PM

• December 18: Spanish Field Trip to the Regal Cinemas

• December 19: Winter Recruitment Concert @ HMES & LES

• December 20: Q2 Grading Period Ends

• December 23 - January 3: Winter Break

School Closing and Delays

As we approach the winter season, we want to ensure that you have access to important information regarding school closures and delays. Please see the attached link to our school division website that provides various ways to stay informed about the weather's impact on our schools: School Closures and Delays Link

Punctuality and Consistent Attendance

A quick reminder: school starts at 7:35 AM, and arriving on time helps set a positive tone for the day. Please continue to notify us of any absences due to illness or unforeseen circumstances. Attendance Notes

Reading Makes Cents

Did you know that your students could potentially win $529 for their post-high school education JUST FOR READING?

WGMS is participating in the statewide Reading Makes Cents 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.

Reading Makes Cents Flyer

Intentional Computer Damage on the Rise

We've seen an increase in damaged computers at WGMS. Please help us keep technology safe. Families are responsible for up to $560 for replacements. For more details, please review the linked school board policy. Policy JN

No Play Fighting

At Walker-Grant Middle School, student safety is our priority. "Play fighting" is not acceptable, and any behavior resembling fighting will not be tolerated.

Pajamas, Slippers, and Blankets Not Allowed at School

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 in the front office.

SpeakUp for Safety

The SpeakUp for Safety tipline is live for students in grades 6-12, allowing anonymous reports of bullying, threats, or safety concerns via email, text, or phone.

For urgent concerns, call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. To report a crime or potential crime, text "FPD Tip" to 847-411 for an anonymous tip to Fredericksburg Police.

FCPS Mental Health Resource Website

Please check out the FCPS Mental Health Resource Website for valuable information and community resources to support our students and families. Sharing 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

Athletics

This week's games:

• December 9 @ 4:30: Boys' Basketball home game against Prospect Heights

• December 12 @ 4:30: Boys' Basketball away game against Locust Grove

Please remember that students are not permitted to stay after school to attend sports events without a supervising adult.

Spirit Gear

Show your Tiger pride with our school spirit gear! Grab yours today and wear it proudly.

WGMS 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.