GMSD in Focus
8.21.23 NEW?
GMSD in Focus
With the second week in full swing, we encourage our students to embrace challenges, seek knowledge, and engage actively in their learning journey. I’m focused on student engagement this week.
Discover new insights to your child’s learning journey. Curriculum Nights offer a firsthand look into what your child will be learning throughout the school year. Please check your emails from each school for information about upcoming curriculum nights, and thank you to those who have already attended!
In the newsletter this week, be sure to read through our posted report card and interim schedule as well as the information about accessing students' grade through the app and through Skyward Family Access beginning this Wednesday.
There are great things happening in GMSD! If you want to see your news celebrated in an upcoming newsletter, please let our Communications Department know through Let's Talk.
And always remember to maintain your focus on what truly matters—our children. Stay GMSDinFocus.
Jason Manuel,
Superintendent
Germantown Board of Education August Business Meeting
The Board will hold its August Work Session on Tuesday, August 22, 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, Aug 22, 2023, 05:30 PM
3350 Forest Hill Irene Road, Germantown, TN, USA
Seeking public feedback on ESSER 3.0
Your insights and perspectives are essential to us, as we continue to update the ESSER 3.0 funding that aligns with our strategic plan.
Your feedback will play a crucial role in refining and shaping our funding plan to ensure its effectiveness. We encourage you to review the plan, share your thoughts, and offer suggestions that will help us make informed decisions for a better and more sustainable future. You can see the current funding plan, here: ESSER 3.0 Public Plan for Remaining Funds (02.23)
How was your first full week of school?
We loved seeing our Mustangs at HHS enjoy their first week. Enjoy a behind the scenes video about their beginning to the school year in this week’s student video spotlight.
Dogwood Fifth Graders sample literature in Book Bistros
Last week, the 5th grade ELA classrooms at Dogwood Elementary underwent a transformation into 'book bistros,' reminiscent of cozy cafes, setting the stage for an upcoming year-long reading initiative. This initiative aims to ignite students' passion for reading. The anticipation is building as students are in the process of selecting titles for the eagerly awaited culminating event—May Madness.
During this engaging "book tasting" event, fifth graders had the opportunity to "sample" a collection of 32 carefully curated books, thoughtfully chosen by Ms. Fredrick and Mrs. Guynes for the annual May Madness contest. Throughout the academic year, students will have the option to delve into these selections.
At the end of the school year, the students will collectively cast their votes to determine the ultimate champion among fifth-grade books. The bistro setting was organized by genre, offering students a brief time to explore the front and back covers, peruse inside flaps, and glance through the books displayed at each table, fostering initial connections.
Taking notes on their personalized "menus," the fifth graders chronicled their impressions of the books that caught their attention. Once the tasting concluded, participants were invited to select one book to enjoy, all while snacking on cookies and punch. Linda Frederick shared, "All the students had a great time, and many found a book in a genre that they may never have considered before."
Student Spotlight: Kyra Coletta helps to bring new life to Germantown International Festival
Houston High School junior, Kyra Coletta, brought a modern twist to the Germantown International Fair, an annual celebration of culture and diversity that took place in August 2023. With a heartfelt connection to the festival dating back to her childhood, Kyra embarked on a mission to infuse new vitality into the event, particularly targeting a younger audience.
Kyra's journey with the Germantown International Festival commenced when she was just four years old, witnessing her grandfather meticulously orchestrate the festivities. Drawing inspiration from these cherished memories, Kyra assumed a more significant role, driven to reshape the fair for a contemporary era. Her efforts included revamping the fair's online presence to engage a broader audience via social media.
Previously equipped with a Facebook page and a website, Kyra embraced the challenge of rejuvenation. She shared, "I started completely fresh with a new website and made it easier to navigate. For Facebook, I have made the Germantown International Festival an event so that people can check in on the big day! I have also been interviewing the people running the booths and asking them questions about the festival to get people excited and give them sort of an inside scoop!" Recognizing the festival's absence on Instagram, she went on to create an account on that platform as well.
Kyra's passion for travel, deeply rooted in her upbringing, fueled her desire to share this enthusiasm with others. She highlighted the festival's unique ability to transport visitors around the world within a single day. Kyra enthused, "One of the great things about the Germantown International Festival is the ability to feel as though you have traveled the world in just one day. We have such a diverse community right here in our backyard and the festival brings everyone together."
Download the app today.
The GERMANTOWN MSD app – Our school district in your pocket. Sync our calendar seamlessly across all your devices. Access student information, attendance, assignments, grades, and more – all in one convenient place. Get a personalized feed tailored to your preferences. Choose your schools and news sources for a streamlined experience. Stay informed, stay connected – with the GERMANTOWN MSD app.
You can quickly download the NEW GMSD app to access all of these features. First, you'll search for 'Germantown MSD' in your preferred app store (iOS or Google). As a parent or caregiver, you'll select 'App Login' to access your child's information. The login process includes a one-time passcode that connects to the cell phone or email you have listed in Skyward--so there's no passwords to learn or memorize! If you need assistance logging in, we are standing by to help. Let us know in Let's Talk.
Winning idea: Farmington Elementary hosts unofficial meet up at the GPAC Grove
Last Friday night, Farmington Elementary families enjoyed a delightful family meetup at the Germantown Performing Arts Center (GPAC). The event, advertised by the school as a meetup, provided a perfect setting for families to come together and unwind in a casual atmosphere. Food trucks added to the ambiance, but the highlight of the evening was the live music performance by Josh Threlkeld & Friends on the TruGreen Lawn, where families gathered beneath the canopy of trees to enjoy the music. With free admission and no tickets required, the GPAC hosts these family friendly events most Friday evenings. "We had such a good turnout, parents thought we rented the place out. We had a Farmington takeover! Our families loved it and I think everyone had a great time," said new PTO president Katrina Grubb.
The Skyward Family Access Portal to display grades beginning Wednesday
Current grades for grade levels 4th-12th will be viewable in Skyward Family and Student Access Wednesday, August 23 after 9:00am.
For grades K-3, students and parents will receive feedback on progress toward proficiency for target-based grading through the weekly folder.
Note: For students enrolled in GOAL, grades are viewable in Pearson Connexus on a regular basis and transferred to Skyward for reporting at the end of each grading term.
Please also note GMSD's 23-24 Interim and Report Card Dates
Interim Reports Post in Skyward (for grades 4-12)
September 13, 2023
November 15, 2023
February 7, 2024
April 24, 2024
Report Cards Post in Skyward:
1st Quarter ends October 6 and report cards will post October 25, 2023
2nd Quarter ends December 15 and report cards will post January 10, 2024
3rd Quarter ends March 8 and report cards will post March 27, 2024
4th Quarter Ends May 22 and grades will post May 22, 2024 for grades K-8
*HHS & GOAL final grades are pulled May 31st
GMSD is continuing with the practice of posting interim reports and report cards to Family Access. Parents may reach out to their school admin if they would like a copy of the interim report or report card sent home.
Local Businesses Show Generosity by Showering GMSD Staff with Summer Gifts
The Germantown Municipal School District (GMSD) is happy to share that many local businesses rallied to recognize and appreciate the hardworking staff members who contribute to the district's success. Since last May, a remarkable sum of over $20,000 in services and gift cards have been graciously donated to GMSD staff, underscoring the strong bond between the schools and the community.
A simple "like" or comment on Facebook posts has become the key to potential surprises for GMSD staff. This innovative approach to giveaways has enabled staff members to qualify for an array of prizes contributed by individual businesses. These gifts have ranged from generous donations of $1,200 to thoughtful offerings of $20.
Among the assortment of gifts, staff members have been treated to spa sessions, car detailing services, memberships to venues, and restaurant gift cards. These gestures have not only brightened the days of educators and staff but have also reinforced the collaborative essence of the Germantown community.
Adding to the spirit of reciprocity, each contributing business has received a token of gratitude from GMSD: a distinctive static window cling designating them as proud supporters of GMSD. This recognition serves as a visible reminder to their customers.
For businesses that are eager to join this initiative and extend their support to GMSD staff, an open invitation has been extended. Those interested in participating can contact Andrew Martin at Andrew.Martin@gmsdk12.org to explore collaboration opportunities.
Mustangs Scores and Schedules
Girls varsity soccer has kicked off their season 3-0 with wins against Germantown, ECS, and Madison Academy. The Lady Mustangs won 9-0 against both Germantown and Madison Academy, and against ECS, they also had a shutout, winning 5-0. Both JV and varsity face off against St. Agnes tomorrow night at home! JV plays at 5:30pm and varsity at 7:00pm. Boys and girls varsity golf will face FCA tonight, but tomorrow, August 22, they are up against rival Collierville. With seniors Zach Olsen and Sophie Christopher both having incredible seasons so far, it’s sure to be a great match up. Volleyball had a big week with wins over Brighton and ECS. Sydni Vice had 12 kills in their win against Brighton, with teammates Kylan Sharp, Ella Seeger, and Teri Brooks having 9 kills a piece. Brooks also had 6 blocks! They head into another packed week with three games. Tonight they play Valley View at home at 6:00pm, tomorrow night they play Munford at home, also at 6:00pm, and Thursday night it's Houston vs. Briarcrest at home at 6:00pm!
Varsity Football Defeats Briarcrest!
Varsity football started their season off with a huge win over Briarcrest, defeating the Saints 42-6! The score at halftime was 35-0, with the Saints not getting on the board until late in the game. Coach Thomas would like to give a special shoutout to all the Mustang fans in attendance. The crowd's energy and support makes all the difference! Chandler Day has been nominated for High School Football Player of the Week by the Daily Memphian for his performance Friday night. Day completed 17 of 23 pass attempts for 363 yards and two touchdowns. He also got a third touchdown on a 2 yard run as the Mustangs had over 500 yards of offense. Click here to vote for your Mustang quarterback! The JV team is next in the game rotation and will play Arlington away tonight at 5:30pm. The varsity Mustangs will next face off against South Panola away on Friday, August 25, at 4:30pm.
Athlete of the Month
Here are the August High School nominees:
Isabelle Bittner - Junior, Cheer
Sophie Christopher - Senior, Golf
T.J. Edwards - Senior, Football
Jose Joiner - Senior, Football
Zach Olsen - Senior, Golf
Emersyn Sells - Junior, Cheer
Here are the August Middle School nominees:
George Church - Houston Middle School, 8th Grade, Cross Country
Ellie Coulter - Riverdale, 8th Grade, Volleyball
Kaylee Faught - Riverdale, 7th Grade, Cheer
Nora Grace Hickey - Houston Middle School, 8th Grade, Cross Country
Clara Leister - Houston Middle School, 8th Grade, Volleyball
Mary Cook Percoski - Houston Middle School, 8th Grade, Cheer
Click here to cast your vote!
The Riverdale Raider Volleyball team goes undefeated in the ECS Eagles classic
On Saturday, August 12, the Riverdale Raiders Volleyball team achieved an impressive 6-0 victory in the ECS Eagles classic. Guided by Head Coach Tim Coulter, the team reveled in their success. Coach Coulter expressed his admiration, saying, “Our Lady Raiders were absolutely amazing! Our parents and fans were so engaged, and we appreciate all their support! I could not have been happier with our girls’ performance today!”
At the heart of the Riverdale Raider Volleyball program there's commitment to empowering young athletes through rigorous training and spirited competition. The girls were able to showcase their talents, and their spirit, by competing against the RES faculty on Friday, August 18.
To learn more about Riverdale volleyball and how to get involved, click here or visit thehoustonathletics.com.
Never miss a game again
Don't miss your chance to come out and see these athletes in action! Have you downloaded our Houston Athletics App? GMSD is excited to announce that middle school feeder programs are also now on the app!
Information about tryouts, required paperwork, upcoming games, game recaps, rosters, and more can be found on thehoustonathletics.com. Email emily.hume@gmsdk12.org to get new schedules, rosters, pictures, and scores updated!
New Booster Club for Houston High STEM students seeking volunteers and donations
Among the many offerings being provided in partnership between the new STEM Booster Club and the Community, the group is offering special guest speakers, such as the upcoming September 11 opportunity, NASA's launch of Rhodes University's satellite into space in 2022 by Dr. Ann Viano, Associate Professor of Physics. They will also be hosting their first spirit night at Forest Hill Grill on Thursday, September 21st. A portion of the proceeds from Spirit Night will be donated back to the HHS STEM Boosters to support the Houston High School STEM program.
They are looking for opportunities for Spirit Nights, outright donations, and more guest speakers.
If you know of a great STEM-related guest speaker, please use this link.
Germantown to Launch Emergency Alert System
Enroll now to begin receiving text, voice and or email emergency alerts from the City of Germantown. Opt-in now to begin receiving emergency notifications.
Telephone-based mass notification systems are used by thousands of public safety agencies across the US to warn citizens about local emergencies, hazards and other threats. Germantown Alert is designed to bring this same life-saving capability to the community. Powered by Hyper-Reach, Germantown Alert is a state-of-the-art mass emergency notification system designed specifically for public safety. Only those who opt-in will receive notifications.
The new Germantown Alert system will provide rapid notification of hazardous and urgent situations using a mix of telephone calls, text and email messages and even TTY/TDD service for the hearing impaired. The system sends messages to geographically targeted households in seconds.
“We know clear, consistent and timely communication is vital during an emergency,” stated Vice Mayor Mary Anne Gibson. “With Germantown Alert we’ll be able to connect with our residents in a way that gives them the most up to date information on situations as they continue to evolve. Don’t delay, register now.” Gibson added.
The City plans to use the service primarily for alerts about weather, environmental hazards, criminal activity that requires public action, significant traffic issues and missing endangered persons. Alerts to landline phones, mobile phones, VoIP phones and email addresses are only included when people enroll. Residents and others who work in Germantown are encouraged to enroll now by calling or texting “Alert” to (901) 979-9955 or visiting Germantown-TN.gov/alert. Residents can also get emergency alerts via their Alexa-enabled smart speakers just by saying “Alexa, enable Hyper-Reach” and follow the Alexa-provided instructions.
“We are excited to gain the ability to communicate quickly and effectively with our community,” said Germantown Police Inspector Nick Godwin. “This technology will improve public safety by getting citizens important information during serious incidents,” Godwin added.
Country Roads at Houston High School on August 26
Join RSVP Chorus with special guests Q'D UP! as they present Country Roads, an acapella extravaganza! https://www.facebook.com/qdupbarbershop
With performances from HHS as well, this will be a spectacular show! Mr. Gregg Tingle and friends will astound you! It’s a don’t miss!
https://www.facebook.com/events/6484722008270431/?ref=newsfeed
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.