GMSD in Focus
10.2.23
Finish in Focus Before Fall Break
Congratulations to all those in our district who celebrated remarkable victories over the weekend and throughout the week.
As we approach the close of another nine weeks, I want to remind everyone to take a moment to check into Skyward or your GMSD app to take a look at grades. It is the perfect opportunity for us to come together as a community and ensure that we Finish in Focus before the well-deserved Fall Break.
I also invite you to explore the Superintendent's Report, where we delve into the diverse range of interventions available to our students in GMSD. It's an excellent resource that sheds light on the support and opportunities we provide to ensure the success of every child in our district.
In the spirit of community engagement, I encourage all of you to make your voices heard. We have two upcoming opportunities for your feedback. Firstly, we value your input on our school calendar options for the 24-25 and 25-26 school years. Your perspectives are invaluable in shaping our district's future. Secondly, we are collecting feedback on the new TISA funding model's accountability report. Your insights play a crucial role in our continuous improvement efforts.
TISA Funding Accountability Report Survey
We won't release another newsletter until the week after we return from the break on October 23rd! I wish you all a happy Fall Break. And, remember to stay focused on what truly matters, our students.
Jason Manuel,
Superintendent
Germantown Board of Education October Work Session
The Board will hold its September Work Session on Tuesday, October 17, 2023.
All of our Germantown Board of Education Meetings are held in person in our GMSD Board/Community Room. Meetings are also live-streamed on our GMSD Youtube Channel.
Tuesday, Oct 17, 2023, 05:30 PM
3350 Forest Hill Irene Road, Germantown, TN, USA
Germantown Board of Education: September's Business Meeting Recap:
At the Germantown Board of Education's September Meeting, the proceedings commenced with the call to order, followed by a moment of silence and the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda for the meeting was approved, and several reports were presented, including a legislative update from Tennessee, the Chairman's report, and financial reports. The Superintendent provided an update about interventions and student supports in the district. The Consent Agenda included the approval of minutes and revisions to various policies, some in their first reading and others in their second reading. The meeting also addressed budget amendments for the fiscal year 2023-24. The Board took action on several items, including the approval of a purchase for Pearson Virtual Schools (GOAL), resolutions related to polling places and the TISA program, and fees for Houston High School's Cosmetology Club. Additionally, plans for the allocation of remaining ESSER 3.0 funds were approved. The meeting concluded with announcements and adjournment.
Germantown Board of Education Members and GMSD recognized at the regional TSBA meeting
Congratulations to the Germantown Municipal School District (GMSD) for their outstanding achievements at the annual TSBA (TN School Boards Association) regional meeting! Brian Curry and Angela Griffith were both honored for their exceptional dedication to boardsmanship standards, with Brian achieving Level III status and Angela achieving the honor of Level IV. These awards recognize their commitment to training, active participation in workshops, and a true volunteer spirit in board activities beyond the local level.
Furthermore, a big congratulations to Sarah Hochman of Germantown, who earned the prestigious Student Recognition Award for her outstanding achievements in academics, community leadership, and engagement. Additionally, Nabiha Huda, another outstanding individual from Germantown, received the School Volunteer Recognition Award for her exceptional commitment to volunteering in the local school district. These accolades reflect the dedication and excellence of the Germantown community in education. Read all about the big winners below. Next, they will compete for the state level!
Delta Region TSBA Volunteer Award Winner: Nabiha Tariq Huda
Nabiha Huda is an exceptional individual who deserves to be recognized for her outstanding volunteer work as the PTO president of Dogwood Elementary School. Her leadership positions on several PTOs, including GMC PTO, Houston Middle School, and Houston High School, are a testament to her dedication to her community. Nabiha is an unwavering volunteer who is always ready to take on any task that needs to be done.
Her presence in the schools that her children attend is a constant source of support and inspiration to all those around her. Nabiha also serves on the Dolphins Belong Committee, where she works tirelessly to make DES an inclusive and welcoming environment for all of its diverse students. She collaborates with the principal to ensure that the Muslim families in the school feel valued and seen. Nabiha's volunteerism has been recognized several times in GMSD, and we are excited to nominate her for the TSBA Volunteer Award so that her good works can be celebrated and shared with a wider audience.
Delta Region TSBA Student Winner: Sarah Hochman
Sarah Hochman is an 11th-grade student who has been nominated for a student excellence award. She has a strong leadership background, having held various positions in the BBYO organization, including Chapter Mazkirah and Chapter Aym Ha'Chaverot. She has also held Regional Leadership positions, including serving as the Regional S'ganit, and International Leadership positions, having attended the International Leadership Seminar in Israel (ILSI) and serving as BBYO Embassy Captain, IC Leadership, IC Press Corps, and Limmud Host at the International Convention (IC) 2023.
Sarah has also been actively involved in school-related activities, such as Key Club and Jewish Student Association (JSA), which she co-founded and co-presided over. In addition to her leadership roles, Sarah has participated in various community service projects, including Riverdale Raider Theater, Houston SGA Trunk-or-Treat, and Hagal Sheli.
She has also received numerous academic awards and honors, including being a member of the Honors Academy and having an unweighted GPA of 4.000 and a weighted GPA of 4.548. Sarah has excelled academically, receiving a perfect score on her ACT and high scores on her PSAT and AP exams.
She also spent a year studying abroad in France and was awarded the Certified French Level C1 and the highest honors from the Class Council. Sarah is a remarkable student who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to her community, making her a worthy candidate for a student excellence award.
Dogwood Elementary's Dolphin Fun Run by Boosterthon Raises Over $90,000
Dogwood Elementary School's Dolphin Fun Run by Boosterthon was a huge success, raising over $90,000 for the school. Students from all grade levels participated in the event, running laps around the school grounds to earn pledges from sponsors. The Fun Run was held on September 29, 2023, and students received donations from all 50 US states and the Cayman Islands.
Proceeds from the Fun Run will be used to purchase technology upgrades, classroom furniture, and school upgrades. The school is planning to purchase new interactive projectors for classrooms, as well as new furniture for classrooms and hallways. The school will also use the funds to make upgrades to the school's gymnasium.
"We are so grateful to our students, families, and community for their support of the Dolphin Fun Run," said Dogwood Elementary School Principal Jessica Woody. "This event was a huge success, and we are excited to use the funds to make improvements to our school that will benefit all of our students."
Students from all grade levels participated in the Dolphin Fun Run. There were a total of 30 laps with fun themes like “skip with a friend,” “Hop as high as you can,” and “Run backward.” All of the students ran their best and had a great time.
"I loved the Dolphin Fun Run!" said Kindergartener Jesse Light. "It was so much fun to run with my friends. I'm so glad we raised so much money for our school."
Annual Lake Race delights Forest Hill Foxes
In what's become an annual tradition, the foxes of Forest Hill celebrated reaching their PTO membership goal on Friday. To celebrate this milestone, FHES staff engaged in a spirited annual lake race, showcasing their competitive spirit and best pool floaties. Notably, Coach Michael Stratton secured victory aboard his trusty blue dragon, as hundreds of students cheered from the shorelines. Over the weekend, the FHES PTO also hosted its annual Foxtail Fling.
Student(s) of the Week: Houston High School Student Government Association Members
The star students of the week undoubtedly belonged to Houston High School's Student Government Association (SGA), who orchestrated one of the most unforgettable homecoming celebrations in the school's history. The festivities kicked off with the district wide StangFest carnival and continued with heartwarming visits to elementary and middle school carlines, and a special recognition of alumni now working in GMSD, who were gifted shirts crafted by our talented Transition Academy students. Their ingenious promotion of dress-up days on social media, including meticulously crafted videos, added a unique charm to the week. The grand culmination was a dance that many parents are hailing as one of the most enjoyable in recent memory, with special thanks extended to GPD and HHS administration for their invaluable support. Dolphins, foxes, falcons, and raiders alike joined in the Homecoming revelry, exemplifying the vibrant spirit of our GMSD community.
Interventionists, Tutors, Co-Teachers, and RTI Coaches--What interventions does GMSD provide?
In academic news, this week, our team highlighted all things intervention in the September Superintendent’s Report. The report helps to shine a light on all of the ways that GMSD is investing in student supports–from interventionists, tutors, co-teachers, and special trainings.
The FarmingTONES perform the national anthem at the HHS vs. Bartlett Homecoming Game
Congratulations to the FarmingTONES, a choir from Farmington Elementary School for an outstanding performance at last Friday night's game. This Friday, the Forest Hill Choir is slated to perform the national anthem at the football game. Interested in performing at a football game? New Athletic Director, Marvis Davis wants to hear from you!
It's a first place victory for The Houston Band over the weekend
Houston High School's marching band has struck a resounding chord of success, securing a well-deserved victory at the Northeast Regional Marching Contest in Mississippi over the weekend. The band members earned the coveted 1st place in class 7A. The triumph follows days of intense preparation, including rigorous rehearsals, a spirited pep rally, pregame homecoming performances, and the celebration of middle school night! Amidst a long and challenging contest day, the band's hard work and talent shone brightly.
Come cheer the band on as they compete on October 21st for Champions at Bartlett Station.
Featured Student Artwork: Advanced Illustration Students of HHS
Mustang Scores and Schedules
Varsity Golf Thrives in the Postseason
After seeing success at the District tournament, it was time for Varsity Golf to take on Regionals. At the District level, the boys varsity team placed second overall, and the girls won their third straight District title! At Regionals, boys varsity completed the season with a second place finish. Senior Zach Olsen placed fourth at the District tournament, and at Regionals, he tied for third. He is headed to the TSSAA State Championship! Our girls varsity golf team won their tenth straight Regional tournament!! The Lady Mustangs are headed to the State Championship as well. Senior Elizabeth Kellum came in fourth overall at regionals, while her teammate, junior Erin McDonald, placed second. Our first place victor was University of Tennessee commit Sophie Christopher. Congratulations to all of these athletes. This has been an incredible year for both of our varsity golf teams, and we can’t wait to see what they accomplish at State, which is set to take place in mid October. To read our full coverage on varsity golf’s postseason, click here.
Houston Mustangs Youth Wrestling Sign Ups
Houston Mustangs Youth Wrestling Club is having a youth program signup and parent meeting October 17, from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. This meeting will take place in the HHS Cafeteria and is for all students K-8. Scan the QR code or follow this link to learn more!
September Athlete of the Month Winners!
Meet your GMSD September Athletes of the Month: Abbey Johnson - Senior, Volleyball, and Angelie Reuer - 7th grade, Houston Middle School, Soccer! The voting for this month is the highest turnout we have seen, with over 17,500 votes - it was a very close race. Congratulations to our winners, and all of our nominees. Read more about Abbey and Angelie below! Our Athlete of the Month program, sponsored by Alisha Dumas with State Farm, is now gearing up for October’s nominees. Our student athletes work hard, and we are excited to get voting started for October next week. Be on the lookout for the voting link!
Abbey Johnson - Senior, Volleyball
Abbey started her Houston volleyball journey in the 6th grade at HMS, and since then she has played club ball and school ball for several years. She is known as the loudest cheerleader for her teammates, both on and off the court. She has a spirit that genuinely wants her teammates to succeed and feel loved. She is not only known for her defensive reads and blocking, but she is also always there to help some of the younger players that are new to the team. She has a positive attitude and gives her all to uplift those around her and work hard.
Angelie Reuer - 7th Grade, Houston Middle School, Soccer
Angelie began playing soccer at around the age of 5 years old, and from there she has continued to grow her love and determination for the sport. She is known for her speed, but also for her drive to set up her teammates for success. She is a social butterfly, who always wants her teammates to feel uplifted, encouraged, and ready for what comes next. In her soccer career, she has played as a starter for HMS from the beginning of her 6th grade year. She also competes on the State team and the Lobos. She works to leave a lasting impression on those around her by always spreading kindness.
Andy and Hope Mouhot of Smoothie King are this week's Community Spotlight!
In a heartwarming display of community support, the exceptional education students in our district have found a valuable ally in Andy and Hope Mouhot, the owners of Smoothie King locations in Collierville and Germantown. The Mouhots have consistently opened their doors to our students, offering them the opportunity to engage in community-based instruction that enhances their job skills. Throughout the years, our students have had the privilege of undertaking a range of tasks, from cleaning windows to peeling bananas, washing blenders and utensils, and even assisting with following recipes to craft delicious smoothies.
For many of our students who aspire to work in the food industry, these hands-on experiences provide them with invaluable real-world skills that will undoubtedly prove instrumental in their post-secondary pursuits. In recognition of their exceptional contributions, the Mouhots are being recognized as GMSD's first-ever Community Spotlight of the Week.
Hot off the presses, Where are they now? Our new alumni magazine is coming in October!
Germantown and nearby area subscribers to Memphis Magazine will receive a copy of the GMSD 2023 Magazine in the mail.
GMSD 2023: Inspiring Personal Excellence Magazine
Read some of the extraordinary stories and achievements of our former students. Here's a quick peek at what's in this issue:
🏫 Elementary, Middle, and High Schools: A glimpse into our schools
🎓 Faculty Achievements: Celebrating the incredible accomplishments of teachers who go above and beyond for our students.
🌟 How Alum like Antonio Scott and Dr. Andrew Boucher are making a difference in the world.
🎨 Arts: Immerse yourself in the world of creativity, where our students and alumni like Savannah Jewel White and Justin Moore shine with their artistic talents.
🏆 Sports: The thrill of victory, and the dedication of our athletes who make us proud, along with some notable alumnus, including Matt Cain!
🌐 Special Programs: A spotlight on the innovative and specialized programs that set GMSD apart.
👨⚖️ Alum Judge Mary L. Wagner: The story of an alum who has risen to the heights of the legal profession.
🚀 The Future: A look forward to what lies ahead, the aspirations and dreams that shape the next generation of Houston High Students.
And, MUCH MORE!
Not a subscriber? No problem! The first 100 alumni portal registrations will also receive a preview copy by mail. Register now until Friday for a chance to win a coffee mug or your copy. It's free and simple to register.
Nominate a Teacher for Teacher of the Month!
The commission continues to accept nominations for Teacher of the Month. Nominees are scored monthly and remain eligible for the award throughout the school year. The nomination form has been digitized and is available online at https://forms.gle/mrrYPkZ6hXmR1Wgz5.
Germantown Education Commission Youth Excellence Award Nominations Are Open
The Germantown Education Commission is accepting nominations for the monthly Youth Excellence Award. This year, in an effort to make the process easier for you, we are offering this online form to collect nominations. Questions or comments? Email Stacey Crockett at SCrockett@Germantown-TN.gov.
Purpose:
The purpose of this award is to recognize a high school senior who has made a significant difference in their own life, the lives of others, the school they attend and/or the Germantown community.
Nomination Criteria:
- The nominee must be a Germantown resident and a high school senior.
- The nominee may attend school outside of Germantown.
- The nominee must demonstrate academic achievement, volunteer effort, community service or exemplary activities.
- The nominee must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 and a satisfactory attendance record.
- The nominee must have two letters of recommendation describing how the nominee is going the extra mile. Is there any characteristic that differentiates this student from others? What sets this applicant apart? Letters may be emailed to scrockett@Germantown-TN.gov or mailed to Germantown City Hall, Attn: Stacey Crockett, 1930 S. Germantown Road, Germantown, TN 38138.
Nominations are accepted August 1 through March 13. Nominees remain eligible until chosen for the award or until the end of the current school year. Youth Excellence Award winners receive a $100 cash prize and a small trophy. Monthly winners are invited to apply for the Germantown Youth Excellence Scholarship to be announced at the Annual Education Celebration in April. For more information, contact Education Commission staff liaison Stacey Crockett at SCrockett@Germantown-TN.gov or (901) 751-7559.
LG: Future Leaders application deadline has been extended through Oct. 6!
Consider downloading our new GMSD App.
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/germantown-msd/id6446898026
Google: http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.blackboard.community.gmsdk12
*If either of the two links above are not working, you can also find the app by searching Germantown MSD.
If you have any questions about the contents of this newsletter--or wish to make a submission for our next newsletter, please email kathleen.crowder@gmsdk12.org or visit us at Let's Talk.