GMSD in Focus
1.29.24
It's never too early to start your College and Career Planning
As we head into February, I want our community to join in celebrating Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. We're thrilled to celebrate the varied and dynamic learning paths available in GMSD. We will be highlighting several of our pathways throughout the month!
Last week's inspiring encounters with Houston High's CTE students were just a glimpse into the world of possibilities that are available for our students. Current students led tours during the Houston High School Preview & Course Selection Night and talked with Riverdale students at their career fair.
With course selection for the 2024-25 school year underway, it's an exciting time for our young learners. A new state policy is guiding students to chart their academic journey with a four-year and beyond plan. From exploring the intricacies of math to diving into the world of health sciences, or expressing creativity through fine arts, families can begin these discussions with younger students as they prepare for their high school careers. Start exploring the Focus Area Pathways, here.
Let's work together to help students discover their talents and future careers,
Jason Manuel,
Superintendent
Recapping School Board Appreciation Week and Celebrating our Germantown Board of Education Members
Thank you to each school who hosted a school board member and each and everyone of you who reached out to share your gratitude for these community leaders!
Just for fun, click the link below to take a quiz to find out Which School Board Member You Would Be.
Germantown Board of Education January Business Meeting
The Board will hold its January Business Meeting on Tuesday, January 30, 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, Jan 30, 2024, 06:00 PM
3350 Forest Hill Irene Road, Germantown, TN, USA
January Business Meeting Tomorrow Night
Tomorrow's board agenda includes approval of a proposal for security glass film purchase, sanctioning a $25 fee for Houston High School's Fashion Club, and discussing Budget Amendment #16 for FY 23-24. Board members will also formally recognize:
GMSD Teachers of the Year- Jerica Ross, Elizabeth Hume, and Anna Brignole
GMSD Supervisor of the Year- Ethan Constant, CTE and Instruction
GMSD Principal of the Year- Ashley Brasfield, Farmington Elementary School
Houston High School State Championship Football Team and Coaches
GMSD January Superintendent Report: Spotlight on Preschool Education
LIVE, tomorrow, Tuesday, January 30th at 6:45pm on our GMSD Youtube Channel.
Join us for this month's informative Superintendent Report, focusing on our Preschool Education in Germantown Municipal School District. The report will highlight the exemplary work of our early childhood education staff.
Curriculum and Classroom Dynamics
- Each school houses two preschool classrooms, adhering to the strict guidelines of the TN Department of Health and Department of Education.
- Insight into the roles of teachers, speech language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and paraprofessionals in creating a nurturing educational environment.
Inclusive and Specialized Services
- GMSD's commitment to early intervention and specialized care, including outreach services like Child Find for early detection of disabilities.
- Explanation of the play-based assessment approach for identifying potential students.
Positive Peers Program
- Details on the application and selection process, emphasizing the benefits of early intervention and preparation for Kindergarten through development of social skills and other essential competencies.
Preparing for Kindergarten
- Discussion on the importance of meeting developmental milestones and ensuring readiness for Kindergarten based on state guidelines.
Join us to gain a comprehensive understanding of how our preschool program is laying strong foundations for our youngest learners, upholding our district's mission of inspiring personal excellence.
Important Deadlines Approaching! School Choice (Open Enrollment), HHS Academy Applications, and Preschool Positive Peer Applications Closing Soon!
School Choice/Open Enrollment--Deadline February 5
GMSD's School Choice/Open Enrollment period for the 2024-2025 school year is closing soon! School Choice opened on January 8, 2024 at 10:00am CST, and it will close on February 5, 2024 at 11:59pm CST. School Choice applications will be available to all prospective new transfers and current GMSD students on an intra-district transfer. Please click here to apply and learn more about School Choice.
Preschool Positive Peer Model Applications--Deadline February 2
For our youngest GMSD students, preschool's positive peer model applications are NOW OPEN for the 2024-2025 school year. These applications will provide the preschool team with information needed to schedule a screening appointment in February, but it does not guarantee acceptance into the program. To be eligible, the student must be 4 years of age by August 15, 2024 and reside in Germantown OR be the child of a GMSD employee and be 3 years of age by August 15, 2024. To apply and learn more about Preschool Positive Peer Models, click here.
Houston High School Honors and Leadership Academy Applications--Deadline February 5
Don't miss this unique opportunity for your rising 9th-11th grader to join a small, specialized cohort at Houston High School. The application process is detailed, offering students a chance to showcase their academic backgrounds, personal stories, and future aspirations. From the Honors Academy's essay to the Leadership Academy's innovative 60-second video prompt, applicants will engage in reflective and creative exercises that highlight their potential. With a focus on community service, leadership, and academic excellence, these academies prepare students not just for college, but for life. For more details about the academies and to apply today, visit our website.
Are you interested in virtual education?
Did you miss last week's Germantown Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) Parent Preview Night? Would you like to learn more about Germantown's Premiere Virtual Learning Option? Watch a recording of the meeting or reach out for your one-on-one consultation today!
CHECK FOR RESCHEDULED DATES: Discovery Days in GMSD: Mark Your Calendars for Preview Events!
There are several upcoming opportunities to visit our schools during our GMSD Discovery Days. Please mark your calendar to visit our schools during these community events:
What? Houston High School (Rising Eleventh & Twelfth Graders) Postsecondary Prep Night
Who? ALL Current and Prospective Rising Eleventh & Twelfth Graders & Parents
When? Feb 1 from 6pm-8pm
What? Houston Middle School (Rising Seventh & Eighth Graders) Preview Night
Who? Rising Seventh and Eighth Graders & Parents
When? Feb 26 from 5:30-6:30
What? Houston Middle School (Rising Sixth Graders) Preview Night
Who? Rising Sixth Graders & Parents
When? Mar 19 from 5:30-6:30
What? 5th Grade Preview Day at Houston Middle School
Who? Rising Sixth Grade Students from FES, DES, and FHES
When? During the school day, Mar 19, 21, and 22
What? Houston High School Mustang 7th Grade Preview Day will explore course offerings
Who? Rising Eighth Grade Students
When? During the school day, May 15
Germantown parents are also invited to join us for GMSD Discovery Days to see firsthand why each one of our schools are a top choice for families. School day tours are available for the 2024-2025 school year. Find out more about school tours, here. Our school teams are hard at work to reschedule all tours scheduled during the snow days!
Get ready to be amazed as we shine the spotlight on the creative minds of Mrs. Breen's gifted class at HMS in this week's Student Spotlight! These talented students have put their ingenuity to the test as they designed and built their own board games. Join us as we celebrate the innovative spirit of these students who have turned their ideas into playable realities. Watch the video to join in on the fun!
Mabry Pegg is named December's BankTennessee Scholar of the Month
Mabry's dedication to academic excellence is evident in her impressive accomplishment of completing two Early Post-Secondary Opportunities (EPSO) last year in U.S. History and Oral Communication, and two more this year in English 12 and Work-Based Learning. By graduation this May, she will have earned an astounding 18 college credit hours, surpassing a typical semester in college. This achievement not only reflects her intellectual prowess but also positions her for remarkable post-secondary success. Beyond her academic accolades, Mabry is known for her unwavering commitment to excellence in every endeavor. She maintains a stellar grade point average and approaches each assignment with a level of diligence that goes well beyond the norm, inspiring her peers with her genuine passion for learning and intellectual curiosity. Her active participation in extracurricular activities and clubs, coupled with her efforts to positively impact the school community, further demonstrate her well-rounded character. The BankTennessee Scholar of the Month is awarded to one GMSD senior each month.
Abigail Koertge and Emily Chow win statewide bookmark contest
We are thrilled to announce that for the third consecutive year, Houston Middle School students have triumphed in the Tennessee Association of School Librarian’s (TASL) State Bookmark Contest. Demonstrating remarkable talent in the digital arena, Abigail Koertge has clinched first place in the new Digital Category of Division III, with Emily Chow securing second place. Krista Grace from TASL expressed her congratulations, highlighting the creative and inspiring designs of their bookmarks which stood out among the Division III digital entries.
Additionally, in a proud moment for our community, their bookmarks will be shared across Tennessee schools and presented to state legislators on Legislative Day in March. This serves not only as an honor for Abigail and Emily but also emphasizes the importance of school libraries, reading, and art in GMSD.
Help GMSD locate the BEST teachers for the 24-25 School Year!
2024 School Snapshots
All of our GMSD schools are hard at work preparing for their upcoming Snapshots event. School Snapshots is a chance for prospective teachers to visit our GMSD schools to meet administrators/teachers and explore the resources our schools have available for teaching. It’s a great opportunity for applicants to get a feel for the different schools’ cultures, which will help them in determining where they want to apply for a teaching position in GMSD. The dates of GMSD's Snapshots event are listed below! Click here to register and learn more.
GMSD School Snapshots:
- Forest Hill Elementary: February 28th from 5:00pm-6:30pm
- Houston Middle School: February 29th from 4:30pm-6:00pm
- Riverdale Elementary: March 19th from 4:30pm-6:00pm
- Farmington Elementary: March 20th from 4:30pm-6:00pm
- Dogwood Elementary: March 21st from 5:00pm-6:30pm
- Houston High School: March 26th from 3:30pm-5:00pm
Please share this with your friends and neighbors!
GMSD Orchestra Students named to All-West Groups!
The Germantown Municipal School District is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our student musicians and dedicated band directors at the recent All-West auditions.
Kudos to our exceptional strings directors, Dr. Long Long Kang, Stephen Short, and Lacy Thurman, for their guidance and mentorship. Their commitment has led to remarkable performances by our students who auditioned and earned places in these elite groups. GMSD continues to lead the region in placements, giving students the opportunity to learn and perform challenging music and work with guest directors. Many will also go on to participate in All State, a distinction akin to winning a state championship.
All-West 9-10 Honors Orchestra
Houston High School
Violin
Yvonne Ge
Catherine Shao
Raymon Stanley
Rose Ouyang
Lillian Jiang
Colton Howe
Violin Alternate
Rashi Kumar
Cole Liew
Jiaxin Zhu
Viola
Myles Martin
Ashton Carter
Wendy Ouyang
Betsy Rivas
Katelynn Wilson
Pierce Brady
Billy Gates
Cello
Madelyn Harrington
Zachary Randall
Logan Shimko
Alan Brenneman
Cello Alternate
Sophia Kohl
Bass
Noah Mahintorabi
Willis Bowman
Caroline Miller
Sutton Alley
Bass Alternate
Harold Anderson
All-West 11-12 Symphony Orchestra
Houston High School
Violin
Lucy Uh
Christina Park
Elia Garcia
Jared Jobbins
Kai Powis-Dow
Niall Manganar
Ethan May
Kevin Flewellen-El
Christian Santopuoli
Violin Alternate
Barrett Duesterhaus
Viola
Pearlie Wang
Erin McDonald
Holland Holdsworth
Viola Alternate
Sam Hosea
Cello
Daniel Joo
Asamoah Oppong
Anjali Jackson Crater
Christian Lloyd
Cello Alternate
Louis Ward
Bass
Ethan Assad
Kyfong Dai
Haytham Faddah
Aamen Kabneh
All-State String Orchestra
Houston High School
Viola
Myles Martin
Ashton Carter
Wendy Ouyang Alternate
Cello
Madelyn Harrington
Zachary Randall Alternate
Bass
Noah Mahintorabi
All-State Symphony Orchestra
Houston High School
Violin
Lucy Uh
Christina Park
Viola
Pearlie Wang
Cello
Daniel Joo Alternate
Bass
Ethan Assad
Kyfong Dai
All-West Middle School String Orchestra
Houston Middle School
Violin
Elizabeth Jee
James Brantley
Archer Warren
Vivian Jiang
Viola
Theodore Karol
Medha Gajula
Warner Hodges
Beatrix Hayward
Viola Alternate
Kate Phipps
Cello
Levi Lei
Amelia Moyer
Cello Alternate
Lily Brownd
Jaelyn Gonsowski
Bass
Aurora Babcock
Jake McMaster
Kennedy Henderson
Bass Alternate
Steven Anderson
Riverdale School
Violin
Sullivan McCleary
Juliana Delgado
Alex Gill
Violin Alternate
Samuel Taylor
Cello
Ben Davis
George Lumm
Bass
Ashton Echols
*Image Correction from last week* Please see the students from the Houston Band who were named first chairs in the All-West Groups!
Falcon Footlights at Farmington Elementary Presents: Matilda Jr.
February 21st - February 25th
Witness the magical story of Matilda, a little girl with extraordinary wit, intelligence, and psychokinetic powers. This adaptation of Roald Dahl's classic is a heartwarming tribute to the power of imagination.
Purchase your tickets here: https://www.showtix4u.com/events/falconfootlights
Houston High School Mustang Theatre Presents: Urinetown
February 23rd - March 2nd
Explore a satirical tale of love through this theatrical classic. Urinetown offers a blend of humor, social commentary, and catchy tunes.
Riverdale Raider Theater Presents: SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical
February 29th - March 2nd
Dive into an undersea adventure with SpongeBob, Patrick, and friends. It's a bubbly journey filled with humor, friendship, and infectious music, perfect for fans of all ages!
Houston Middle School Showcases: Into the Woods Jr.
February 29th - March 9th
Embark on a whimsical journey where fairy tales intertwine in unexpected ways. This enchanting musical explores the intersecting paths of beloved storybook characters.
Purchase your tickets here: https://gmsd.schoolcashonline.com/Fee/Details/3208/370/False/True
*Our team will continue to update this article as links to purchase tickets become available.
Mustangs Scores and Schedules
Our Mustangs need packed crowds this week as they have a full schedule of games and show nights. Boys varsity basketball faces MUS away tonight, and this Friday they are away at Collierville at 7:00pm. Girls varsity basketball has a tough schedule this week! Tonight at 6:15pm, they are away at Ponotoc, and this Wednesday they face Germantown at home in a makeup game due to the snow storm. Along with the boys, this Friday they are also away at Collierville with their game starting at 6:00pm. Come show your support! Varsity wrestling celebrated their Senior Night this past week, and they are preparing for State Duals this Saturday, February 3. Varsity pom is celebrating their huge victories from Magic City Dance Challenge this past weekend. These athletes competed in Birmingham, AL, and they brought home some incredible accolades - including multiple first place finishes. Read our full coverage here, and be sure to cheer on our pom team as they head to Orlando, FL this weekend to compete at Nationals!! Come check out their award winning routines as they host their show night tonight at 6:15pm at the HMS main gym!
Cheer Nationals Show Night
Houston’s cheer teams are ready to showcase their talents at Show Night! Let’s show up in support of these Mustangs before they head off to compete at Nationals. Sunday, February 4, from 4:00pm-6:00pm at Houston High School’s Varsity Gym - come show your support!
HHS Swim has huge success at Shelby County Championship
HHS swim had incredible success at the Shelby County Championship, with multiple county and school records set. The team took 2nd place overall, the girls’ team took 1st place, and the boys’ team took 3rd place. Be sure to read our full coverage of this event as we celebrate these athletes and their accomplishments! Up next, those with qualifying times will be headed to Nashville on February 9 to compete at the State Championship! Let’s go Mustangs!!
GMSD's Athlete of the Month
Voting for GMSD’s January Athletes of the Month is set to close this week! Tomorrow at noon, voting will close, so make sure you get your votes in. Learn more about our first nominees of 2024 here.
High School Nominees:
Mia Avery - Senior, Pom
Kylan Clark - Senior, Basketball
Lindsey Neas - Senior, Swim
Natalie Page - Senior, Pom
Mckenzie Percoski- Junior, Basketball
Lucy Uh - Senior, Swim
Middle School Nominees:
Duke Gunn - 8th Grade, Riverdale, Basketball
Molly Massey - 7th Grade, Houston Middle School, Pom
Hannah Novarese - 7th Grade, Houston Middle School, Basketball
Tatum Okleshen - 8th Grade, Houston Middle School, Pom
Jared Redmond - 8th Grade, Houston Middle School, Basketball
Lucy Underwood - 8th Grade, Riverdale, Basketball
Mustang Madness 2024
The Mustang Bullpen Club is hosting a 21+ event to celebrate Mustang Madness 2024. This soiree will kickoff the HHS baseball season and will feature a silent auction, live auction, live music, and hors' d oeuvres. We are currently seeking auction items for the silent auction and live auction.
Location: Windyke Country Club
Date & Time: Friday, February 23, 2024 from 7:00pm-10:00pm
Cost: $50 per person
To purchase tickets, please visit https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/houston-hs-baseball/mustang-madness
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.