GMSD in Focus
2.12.24
Focusing on matters of the heart & premiering the master plan
Happy Valentine's Day to all of our GMSD families. Accordingly, our spotlight this week shines on students dedicated to making a difference. From two sisters surpassing a milestone of donating over 1,000 toys to those in need, to a Riverdale student's creative bracelet initiative for charity, our students exemplify the spirit of love and giving. If you're aware of a student contributing positively, we'd love to hear from you.
We are also continuing to celebrate both CTE Month and Black History Month in GMSD. Be sure to read below for highlights from Dogwood Elementary School. (Pictured above, GOAL students exploring their culinary skills in the virtual school's RovingChef series.)
Meanwhile, preparations for the next school year are underway, with a call for intent forms for our future kindergarteners. Don’t miss the upcoming Kindergarten preview night on March 26, for a glimpse into the Kindergarten experience at GMSD.
Lastly, we're excited to begin sharing developments on the Houston High Master Plan, revealing a future of enhanced educational facilities. Stay connected for more on this transformative project.
Let's stay focused on what matters most—our students.
Jason Manuel,
Superintendent
Encourage your friends and neighbors with incoming Kindergarteners to let us know that they are coming!
Germantown Municipal School District is seeking future kindergarteners and any new students, grades K-11, zoned for GMSD but not currently enrolled, to complete the New Student Intent Form for Fall 2024. Completing an intention form helps your local schools with planning and communication, including readiness tips and event notifications.
Why should you fill out this form?
- It assists the district in planning accurately for the upcoming school year, ensuring adequate staffing and resources.
- It enables the district to communicate effectively with families, providing updates and necessary information.
- It gives families access to resources on kindergarten readiness and notifications about important events like Kindergarten Preview Nights.
Fill out your new student intention form and connect with us here.
The Germantown Board of Education heads to Nashville this week to advocate for your children
With hundreds of education bills on the table, their presence and advocacy are more critical than ever. Their annual publication of a legislative agenda, a strategic wish list, outlines key laws and changes that would significantly benefit Germantown's students.
Let's all wish them well as they travel to Nashville to meet with legislators once again this week. It's also recommended to spend time reading their Legislative Agenda.
Germantown Board of Education February Work Session
The Board will hold its February Work Session on Tuesday, February 20, 2024.
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, Feb 20, 2024, 05:30 PM
3350 Forest Hill Irene Road, Germantown, TN, USA
How the Houston High School Master Plan will revolutionize education in Germantown
We are thrilled to unveil the premiere of the Houston High School Master Plan, a visionary project set to redefine educational excellence within our community. This ambitious initiative, the result of three years of meticulous planning, dreaming, and collaboration involving hundreds of stakeholders, including committee members, staff, directors, coaches, architects, City of Germantown partners, and our students, promises to transform the face of Houston High School.
Our first feature provides a broad overview of the plan, highlighted by a stunning virtual flyover that showcases the potential renovations and their impact on the school's landscape. Please take time to watch it in the video above!
In the coming weeks, we will delve deeper into the intricacies of the plan, featuring interviews with key contributors who have played a pivotal role in shaping this transformative vision.
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 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? Kindergarten Preview Nights (at each elementary school)
Who? Rising Kindergarteners & Parents
When? March 26 from 6:00 - 7:00pm
What? Riverdale Middle School (Rising Sixth Graders) Preview Night
Who? Rising Sixth Graders & Parents
When? April 8 from 6:00 - 7:00pm
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!
Focusing on Students Who Are Giving Back Throughout the Month of February!
Anna Claire & Mary James Russell, two sisters who are making a difference!
Riverdale student Sutherlynn Gibbons shares how she is helping her community
Sutherlynn Gibbons, a Riverdale student, has transformed her passion for crafting into a powerful tool for philanthropy, raising over $1,900 for various charities through her creative bracelet-making initiative.
Inspired to act following the crisis in Ukraine, she began by selling bracelets in Ukrainian flag colors, benefiting displaced children through New Horizons for Children. Her efforts expanded to support the Wounded Warrior Project and the Children of Fallen US Soldiers, showcasing her commitment to making a tangible difference. Read more about Sutherlynn's inspiring journey and how she's making waves in our GMSD community, here.
Two Educators at Dogwood provide an exemplary guide book to Black History Month
In the spirit of fostering an inclusive community that celebrates diversity and unity, Dogwood Elementary's Dolphins Belong initiative has taken a significant step forward this Black History Month. Spearheaded by school counselor Brandi Fitchpatric and ESL teacher Millicent Williams, members of the Dolphins Belong Committee, the school has embraced a series of educational and interactive activities designed to enrich students' understanding and appreciation of African American history and culture. This also gives teachers a cohesive, age appropriate, and organized plan for celebrating the occasion.
The overall initiative aims to ensure that every member of the Dogwood family feels a sense of belonging and has led to the implementation of a comprehensive guide for teachers. This guide has enabled meaningful classroom discussions, interactive hands-on activities, and the integration of Black History Month into daily school life—from morning announcements to specialized classroom guidance, library sessions, and even music and art classes. The aim is not only to educate but to inspire students to recognize the profound impact of diverse cultures on society and to see themselves as world changers capable of making a positive impact in their everyday lives.
A standout feature of this month's celebrations has been the creation of tangible products that leave a lasting impression on students. For example, the fifth-grade Black History Quilt project allows students to delve into autobiographies, fostering a deep sense of pride and community. Additionally, memorable moments such as the entire school's engagement with the story of Raye Montague, the pioneering naval engineer, highlight the initiative's impact.
Through Dolphins Belong, Dogwood Elementary is setting a precedent for how schools can celebrate Black History Month. By highlighting significant figures and events in African American history and integrating these lessons into the fabric of students' education, Dogwood is not only honoring the past but paving the way for a future where diversity and unity are celebrated in equal measure.
Your local schools are gearing up for prime teacher recruitment season--and you can help!
Did you know the top reason most of our new hires chose to join our schools was through word of mouth? That's right—your conversations matter. As we gear up for hiring season, I encourage you to spread the word. Tell a friend, a neighbor, that GMSD is the place to be.
And, our premier teacher recruitment series is back, offering a glimpse into employment within our schools. We also have to give shoutouts to each individual school, as they premiere their themes this year!
Please share with any prospective teachers you know:
Forest Hill: Brewing Something Good!
☕️ Perk up your career! #TeachGMSD is on the hunt for teachers who have a latte to offer! 🍎 Join us at Forest Hill Elementary's "Brewing Something Good" event and espresso yourself as the next great educator in our district. Let's mocha difference together!
🎓✨ Test your wits and find out about why it is wonderful to teach at Houston Middle School! ✨🎓 Are you the next great mind to join our Mustang family? Find out at our lively "Are You Smarter Than a HMS Mustang?" event for prospective teachers. It’s not just about the trivia—it’s where your teaching passion meets our vibrant community.
Help GMSD recruit the BEST teachers for the 24-25 School Year!
Stay tuned for next week as we premiere the themes of Farmington Elementary School and Dogwood Elementary School!
What is School Snapshots?
School Snapshots is GMSD's unique approach to a job fair experience. Snapshots gives prospective teachers a chance 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. Note the events below and make sure to register, here.
- 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!
The Mustangs' Fifth Measure 'SingStrong' in NYC Competition
Houston’s A Capella Choir, 5th Measure, had the amazing opportunity to compete in the national SingStrong competition at Adelphi University this past weekend. With an impressive 8-minute set prepared, the group found themselves competing alongside a dozen other high schools from across the country. With their arrangements of 'Set Fire to the Rain' and 'Still Feel,' the group took the stage by storm and gained many friends among fellow performing groups.
Along with the songs performed by the full group, beatboxer Topher Green showed off an original beatbox arrangement that shocked those in the auditorium, earning the “Best Beatbox Solo” award from the panel of judges. Topher, a junior, is currently in his third year as a member of Fifth Measure.
Off the stage, Fifth Measure had the opportunity to engage in staff-led sessions ranging from 'how to be a rockstar' to personalized one-on-one sessions aimed at refining its set to perfection. Each session provided invaluable insights and techniques, empowering the group to elevate its performance to new heights. As the weekend drew to a close, the group concluded its journey with a memorable excursion to Times Square.
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.
Purchase your tickets here: https://gofan.co/app/school/TN8765?activity=Performing%20Arts
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!
Purchase your tickets here: https://gmsd.schoolcashonline.com/Fee/Details/3235/370/False/True
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.
Calling all GMSD Poets! The City of Germantown is hosting its second annual Word Travel Sidewalk Poetry Contest
Are you ready to let your words wander and weave through the streets of Germantown? The 2024 Word Travels Sidewalk Poetry Contest is back, inviting poets of all ages and backgrounds to showcase their creativity and talent. Organized by the city of Germantown, this contest promises not only the chance to have your poetry immortalized on the city's sidewalks but also the opportunity to win a cash prize of $100. And, there's a special division just for students. Read more about the opportunity, here.
See HHS 11th grader, Niyantha Kaushik's winning entry from last year (pictured).
Mustangs Scores and Schedules
We are in the home stretch for winter sports. Boys and girls varsity basketball celebrated senior night this past week, where they both picked up victories over Southwind! Boys won 68-51, and the girls won 57-27. The girls team actually gained 3 wins last week, defeating Cordova and Southwind twice. Up next, the girls will have to face Southwind again - tomorrow night at 6:00pm at home. Varsity swimming had an incredible weekend at State. The girls and boys combined team finished 5th out of 122 schools, and the Girls team finished in 4th place - setting 6 new Houston Records. The girls 200 Medley Relay finished 1st, and Eva Rottink was named the 100 Back State Champion, while her sister Roos won the 100 butterfly. Congratulations to these swimmers! Go Mustangs!
February’s GMSD Athlete of the Month - Voting is Open!
Voting for February’s GMSD Athlete of the Month is open! Check out the nominees below, and click here to learn more about these student athletes and cast your vote. Voting is set to close on February 26 at noon.
Here are the February High School nominees:
Colby Baltz - Senior, Wrestling
June Battles - Senior, Bowling
Kinsley Crews - Senior, Basketball
Cole D’Entremont - Senior, Bowling
Jacob Geiser - Senior, Wrestling
Jordan Myles - Freshman, Basketball
Here are the February Middle School nominees:
Kiara Anderson - 8th Grade, Houston Middle School, Pom
Rylan Askins - 8th Grade, Riverdale, Basketball
Annie Beasy - 6th Grade, Houston Middle School, Pom
Brody Cowan - 8th Grade, Riverdale, Basketball
Helen Donlon - 7th Grade, Houston Middle School, Basketball
Kolby Shaw - 7th Grade, Houston Middle School, Basketball
Houston Cheer Celebrates their National Recognitions
We want to congratulate the Houston cheer teams for an incredible weekend at Nationals. The Houston Middle Cheer Large placed 5th in the Nation for the Junior High Division, Houston High’s Non-Tumbling Junior Varsity Team was named 2nd place for the World School Cheer Championship, and Houston High’s Super Varsity team placed 2nd in the Nation for the Super Varsity Division! Congratulations to these athletes!
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.