GMS PRIDE Update
From Our Home to Yours
May 20, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (5/23): A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
- Exams for periods 1, 3, and 7
TUESDAY (5/24): B Day (periods 2, 4, 6, 8)
- Exams for periods 2, 4 and 8
WEDNESDAY (5/18): Early Dismissal @ 1:00pm
- Exams for periods 5 and 6
**FRIDAY (5/27) - SUMMER SCHOOL REGISTRATION AT LHS HARMON 7:30 AM-12:00NOON AND 4:00PM TO 7:00PM
End of Year information
Semester Exams:
LISD does not allow students to take exams early. Therefore, your student is not going to be present on one of the last 3 days, he/she will need to plan on coming up to campus sometime in the summer to take finals.
Last Day of School:
Wednesday, May 25, is our last school day. We will complete finals and dismiss at 1:00 pm. All students are to be off campus by 1:30; we are not able to keep them on campus due to staff meetings and end of year procedures for our staff. Please be sure to make necessary arrangements.
8th Grade Parents:
If you have not done so already, be sure to provide Ms. Villarreal your proof of residency. This is required for ALL 8th grade students. For more information, you can email her at villarrealj@lisd.net
Course Failures and Summer School:
Students MUST pass Math AND ELAR along with Science OR Social Studies to be promoted to the next grade. Furthermore, students cannot take more than 2 courses in summer school. If your student is in need of summer school, we will be sending specific information on how to register and pay the last week of school. I encourage you to reach out to your student's teachers and/or counselors with specific questions about grades.
Lewisville ISD Summer School:
Location: LHS Harmon High School (1250 West Round Grove Rd, Lewisville, Tx 75067)
Dates: June 1 to June 21.
Registration: May 27th - 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m at LHS Harmon
Cost: $150 per class (max of 2 = $250) plus optional transportation fee of $125 for bus services, if family needs.
Back To School 22-23:
For Back to School this year, we will have two separate programs and registrations. Similar to last year, families can register online for backpacks and school supplies. Additionally, there will be a separate Health Services event for immunizations, eye exams, and physicals. Online registration for the supplies begins in April and will close on June 24th or while supplies last, whichever comes first. Schools will be distributing backpacks to the students at your student’s home campus. Each school will be reaching out to parents on or before August 5th with information on how students will receive their backpacks and supplies. Please keep an eye out in your email for more information related to the health services event and any updates regarding school supplies.
Orientation for 22-23 School Year:
Back to school orientation for the 22-23 school year will be held the last week in July, usually on Thursday or Friday. We will post more information on our website as it becomes available, so be sure to check back with us in July!
School Supplies:
In order to assist families with the cost (and hassle) of back to school shopping, we will be providing all students with their basic school supply needs. Therefore, we will not be selling "wrap packs" or other supplies this summer.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
May 13, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (5/23): A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
- Exams for periods 1, 3, and 7
TUESDAY (5/24): B Day (periods 2, 4, 6, 8)
- Exams for periods 2, 4 and 8
WEDNESDAY (5/18): Early Dismissal @ 1:00pm
- Exams for periods 5 and 6
Counselor's Corner
Check out this Mental Health Awareness SMORE for Mental Health Awareness Month!
Back To School 22-23:
For Back to School this year, we will have two separate programs and registrations. Similar to last year, families can register online for backpacks and school supplies. Additionally, there will be a separate Health Services event for immunizations, eye exams, and physicals. Online registration for the supplies begins in April and will close on June 24th or while supplies last, whichever comes first. Schools will be distributing backpacks to the students at your student’s home campus. Each school will be reaching out to parents on or before August 5th with information on how students will receive their backpacks and supplies. Please keep an eye out in your email for more information related to the health services event and any updates regarding school supplies.
Lewisville ISD Summer School:
Location: LHS Harmon High School (1250 West Round Grove Rd, Lewisville, Tx 75067)
Dates: June 1 to June 21.
Registration: May 27th - 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m at LHS Harmon
Cost: $150 per class (max of 2 = $250) plus optional transportation fee of $125 for bus services, if family needs.
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU Griffin families for helping us last week with monetary donations, notes, drinks and gift cards to spoil our teachers!! Last week we were able to decorate the entrance, stock all workrooms with drinks and snacks, have lunch catered by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, put up a tree of thanks (note cards) and also gift every teacher and staff member with a $10 gift card. Without your help this would not have been possible and we truly appreciate it! Please check out our Social Media sites for pictures from the week.
Save the Date
Spirit night at Chuy’s Tex Mex is coming up on Wednesday May 18th. The event is happening all day so stop by for lunch, snack or dinner! Don’t forget to mention Griffin Middle School PTA when ordering.
Schoolwide Information
8th Grade TCHS Visit and Career Day:
On May 16th our 8th grade students will be going to The Colony High School for a tour/pep rally to welcome them next year. When returning from TCHS 8th graders will eat during B lunch. Once finished, students will be dismissed from class to hear about several different careers from those in the field.
8th Grade Field Trip:
8th grade students will be going to Main Event on Tuesday, May 17, to celebrate their time in Middle School. All Money and field trip forms have been collected for those who are going. For more information regarding the field trip, contact Ms. Linz at linzt@lisd.net
AP Spanish Testing:
Friday, May 20, will be the AP Spanish Testing for 8th graders who are in that class. Students involved in this testing will receive information from their teachers about specifics.
Yearbooks are SOLD OUT:
As of Thursday, May 12, all yearbooks have been purchased. The website to purchase books was taken down yesterday as well. If you tried to order a book online after that, we will not be able to fill that order.
Current HB4545 Tutorial Students:
At this time, all HB4545 tutoring for this school year has been completed. Students who are not completed with their hours are welcome to continue to work on it; however, there is no more tutoring available.
Course Failures and Summer School:
As we start to close out the year, teachers have contacted - or attempted to contact - parents of students who are at a high risk of failing a class for the year. As a reminder, students MUST pass Math AND ELAR along with Science or Social Studies to be promoted to the next grade. Furthermore, students cannot take more than 2 courses in summer school. If you have been notified that your student may need to attend summer school, we will be sending specific information on how to register and pay the last week of school. I encourage you to reach out to your student's teachers and/or counselors with specific questions about grades.
*********************
May 6, 2022
What's Happening At GMS?
MONDAY (5/9):
- 6th grade Girls Choir practice @ 8:00 AM
TUESDAY (5/10): TESTING SCHEDULE - all students report to GMS
- STAAR TESTING - all students (no lunch deliveries)
WEDNESDAY (5/11): TESTING SCHEDULE - all students report to GMS
- STAAR TESTING - all students (no lunch deliveries)
- 7th grade Soccer @ GMS
THURSDAY (5/12): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
- 6th/7th Awards Assembly @ 9:15 (parents of students receiving an award will get a call/email)
- 8th Awards Assembly and Celebration @ 2:45 (all 8th grade parents are invited)
- 8th grade Soccer @ GMS
- 6th grade Girls Choir practice @ 8:00 AM
- 6th grade Boys Choir practice during advisory
Counselor Corner
Check out this Mental Health Awareness SMORE for Mental Health Awareness Month!
Back To School 22-23:
For Back to School this year, we will have two separate programs and registrations. Similar to last year, families can register online for backpacks and school supplies. Additionally, there will be a separate Health Services event for immunizations, eye exams, and physicals. Online registration for the supplies begins in April and will close on June 24th or while supplies last, whichever comes first. Schools will be distributing backpacks to the students at your student’s home campus. Each school will be reaching out to parents on or before August 5th with information on how students will receive their backpacks and supplies. Please keep an eye out in your email for more information related to the health services event and any updates regarding school supplies.
Lewisville ISD Summer School:
Location: LHS Harmon High School (1250 West Round Grove Rd, Lewisville, Tx 75067)
Dates: June 1 to June 21.
Registration: May 27th - 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m at LHS Harmon
Cost: $150 per class (max of 2 = $250) plus optional transportation fee of $125 for bus services, if family needs.
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Spirit Night:
SAVE THE DATE - Chuy's Tex Mex Plano is hosting us on Wednesday, May 18th ALL DAY! Stop by for lunch, dinner or snack in between! Don't forget to mention Griffin Middle School when ordering. Chuy's is located at 3908 Dallas Parkway, Plano
8th Grade Information
8th Grade Reading and Math STAAR:
- All 6-8th grade students will be taking the STAAR Math Test on Tuesday, and the STAAR Reading Test on Wednesday.
- Students may bring non messy snacks (like pretzels or goldfish), water bottles (ONLY drink option), and a book to read into testing rooms. No other food, drinks, technology or bags will be taken into testing rooms.*
- Students need to either bring a sack lunch or buy a sack lunch from the cafeteria on these days. No food deliveries and no campus visitors.
8th Grade Awards and Celebration:
We are so excited to announce that we will be able to host our 8th grade awards celebration this year! The awards assembly will begin at 2:45 pm on May 12th. Every 8th grade student will be recognized, and ALL parents are invited to attend! (We encourage you to plan on arriving between 2:15-2:35 to get a seat before 8th grade students are seated.)
8th Grade TCHS Visit:
On May 16th our 8th grade students will be going to The Colony High School for a tour/pep rally to welcome them next year. When returning from TCHS 8th graders will eat during B lunch. Once finished, students will be dismissed from class to start their career day rotation with their advisory groups from 1:00 - 4:00.
8th Grade Field Trip:
8th grade students will be going to Main Event on Tuesday, May 17, to celebrate their time in Middle School. All Money and field trip forms have been collected for those who are going. For more information regarding the field trip, contact Ms. Linz at linzt@lisd.net
7th Grade Information
7th Grade Reading and Math STAAR:
- All 6-8th grade students will be taking the STAAR Math Test on Tuesday, and the STAAR Reading Test on Wednesday.
- Students may bring non messy snacks (like pretzels or goldfish), water bottles (ONLY drink option), and a book to read into testing rooms. No other food, drinks, technology or bags will be taken into testing rooms.*
- Students need to either bring a sack lunch or buy a sack lunch from the cafeteria on these days. No food deliveries and no campus visitors.
7th Awards Ceremony:
We will host a 6th and 7th grade - combined - awards ceremony at 9:15am on May 12th. The parents of students who will be receiving an award are invited to come. As much as we would like to invite all parents, our facility will not accommodate that number. For parents who are invited, we encourage you to arrive between 8:30 and 9:00 am to be seated before students are escorted down.
6th Grade Information
6th Grade Reading and Math STAAR:
- All 6-8th grade students will be taking the STAAR Math Test on Tuesday, and the STAAR Reading Test on Wednesday.
- Students may bring non messy snacks (like pretzels or goldfish), water bottles (ONLY drink option), and a book to read into testing rooms. No other food, drinks, technology or bags will be taken into testing rooms.*
- Students need to either bring a sack lunch or buy a sack lunch from the cafeteria on these days. No food deliveries and no campus visitors.
6th Awards Ceremony:
We will host a 6th and 7th grade - combined - awards ceremony at 9:15am on May 12th. The parents of students who will be receiving an award are invited to come. As much as we would like to invite all parents, our facility will not accommodate that number. For parents who are invited, we encourage you to arrive between 8:30 and 9:00 am to be seated before students are escorted down.
Schoolwide Information
YEARBOOKS ARE HERE!
Yearbooks are here, and we will be handing them out on Thursday, May 12th. May 12th will also be your last day to purchase online. If you would like to purchase a yearbook online please visit the GMS website to purchase. You can also purchase a book by sending in cash or bringing a check made out to GMS. Here is the link to purchase online.
https://www.balfour.com/texas/the-colony/griffin-middle-school
Upcoming Testing Dates:
May 10, 2022- 6th, 7th, 8th STAAR Math
May 11, 2022- 6th, 7th, 8th STAAR Reading
May 20, 2022 - AP Spanish Testing
Current HB4545 Tutorial Students:
All students who were enrolled in the HB4545 tutoring this spring should have completed all work at this time. If your student has not yet completed their hours, you will need to contact Ms. Wood at woodk@lisd.net to arrange a way to get that done.
Course Failures and Summer School:
As we start to close out the year, teachers have contacted - or attempted to contact - parents of students who are at a high risk of failing a class for the year. As a reminder, students MUST pass Math AND ELAR along with Science or Social Studies to be promoted to the next grade. Furthermore, students cannot take more than 2 courses in summer school. If you have been notified that your student may need to attend summer school, we will be sending specific information on how to register and pay the last week of school. I encourage you to reach out to your student's teachers and/or counselors with specific questions about grades.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
April 29, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
**TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK**
MONDAY (5/2):
- Griffin Grammies (Band awards) @ 6:30 TCHS auditorium
TUESDAY (5/3):
WEDNESDAY (5/4): A Day (Periods 1, 3, 5, and 7) - *MAY THE "FOURTH" BE WITH YOU*
- Orchestra Concert @ GMS
THURSDAY (5/5): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
- 8TH GRADE SCIENCE STAAR
FRIDAY (5/6):
- 8TH GRADE SOCIAL STUDIES STAAR
SATURDAY (5/7):
- Tutoring for HB4545 @ GMS (9:00-12:00)
Counselor Corner
Back To School 22-23:
For Back to School this year, we will have two separate programs and registrations. Similar to last year, families can register online for backpacks and school supplies. Additionally, there will be a separate Health Services event for immunizations, eye exams, and physicals. Online registration for the supplies begins in April and will close on June 24th or while supplies last, whichever comes first. Schools will be distributing backpacks to the students at your student’s home campus. Each school will be reaching out to parents on or before August 5th with information on how students will receive their backpacks and supplies. Please keep an eye out in your email for more information related to the health services event and any updates regarding school supplies.
Lewisville ISD Summer School:
Location: LHS Harmon High School (1250 West Round Grove Rd, Lewisville, Tx 75067)
Dates: June 1 to June 21.
Registration: May 27th - 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m at LHS Harmon
Cost: $150 per class (max of 2 = $250) plus optional transportation fee of $125 for bus services, if family needs.
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Teacher Appreciation Week:
PTA would like our parents help in spoiling our teachers and staff next week We are asking parents for help in purchasing gift cards and various beverages (see list on signup genius below), that will be given to our teachers/staff, to show appreciation during National Teacher Appreciation Week. We are asking for parents to please consider donating gift cards in the amount $10/ gift card to any local restaurant or store. PTA will then add these to other appreciation gifts for the week with our goal being to provide every teacher with at least 1 gift card. Gift cards can be dropped in the office at the front desk or at our PTA Table during Family Fun Night TONIGHT, April 29th. We are also accepting cash donations to be put towards this endeavor either through the ways mentioned above or via credit card on our Square site: https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/
Please also feel free to leave cards or notes with your donations to be given to the teachers. *** Please do not place the gift cards inside the notes/envelopes **
Thank you for your help as we prepare to spoil our amazing GMS teachers!! To see a list of items we are requesting please visit: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0c4ea8a623abfb6-gmsteacher
Spring Family Night:
Come join us TONIGHT Friday, April 29, from 6:30-9:30, as we celebrate a great year at Griffin MS! Starting at 6:30pm, work with your student to create an awesome paper plane, then put it to the test on the raceway! From 7:00 to 8:00 pm, enjoy popcorn, drinks, and snacks, write a note of thanks to a teacher, visit the TC Public Library table to find out about summer events, and get active on our 18 ft. slide that is sponsored by Health Coach Jennifer Benavides! There will also be a couple of food trucks to get your "munch on"! Finally, we will finish the night with a showing of, Planes, under the stars on our outdoor screen! It is sure to be a fun-filled evening, and we hope to see you there!
Spirit Night:
SAVE THE DATE - Chuy's Tex Mex Plano is hosting us on Wednesday, May 18th ALL DAY! Stop by for lunch, dinner or snack in between! Don't forget to mention Griffin Middle School when ordering. Chuy's is located at 3908 Dallas Parkway, Plano
8th Grade Information
8th Grade Science and Social Studies STAAR:
All 8th grade students will be taking the STAAR Science test on Thursday, and the STAAR Social Studies Test on Friday.
*Students may bring non messy snacks (like pretzels or goldfish), water bottles (ONLY drink option), and a book to read into testing rooms. No other food, drinks, technology or bags will be taken into testing rooms.*
**On May 10th and 11th students need to either bring a sack lunch or buy a sack lunch from the cafeteria. No food deliveries and no campus visitors.**
8th Grade Awards and Celebration:
We are so excited to announce that we will be able to host our 8th grade awards celebration this year! The awards assembly will begin at 2:45 pm on May 12th. Every 8th grade student will be recognized, and ALL parents are invited to attend! (We encourage you to plan on arriving between 2:15-2:35 to get a seat before 8th grade students are seated.)
8th Grade Field Trip:
8th grade students will be going to Main Event on Tuesday, May 17, to celebrate their time in Middle School. However, in order to be eligible to attend, students MUST have their permission slips AND money turned in no later than NEXT FRIDAY, April 29. For more information regarding the field trip, contact Ms. Linz at linzt@lisd.net
7th Grade Information
We will host a 6th and 7th grade - combined - awards ceremony at 9:15am on May 12th. The parents of students who will be receiving an award are invited to come. You will receive a call from a GMS staff member the week of May 2-6 if your child will be receiving an award. As much as we would like to invite all parents, our facility will not accommodate that number. For parents who are invited, we encourage you to arrive between 8:30 and 9:00 am to be seated before students are escorted down.
6th Grade Information
We will host a 6th and 7th grade - combined - awards ceremony at 9:15am on May 12th. The parents of students who will be receiving an award are invited to come. You will receive a call from a GMS staff member the week of May 2-6 if your child will be receiving an award. As much as we would like to invite all parents, our facility will not accommodate that number. For parents who are invited, we encourage you to arrive between 8:30 and 9:00 am to be seated before students are escorted down.
Schoolwide Information
Yearbook Sales:
Don’t forget to purchase your yearbook online. We will begin handing out this year’s book in May. Click on the link to purchase now.
https://www.balfour.com/texas/the-colony/griffin-middle-school
Upcoming Testing Dates:
Mark your calendars for these dates.
May 3, 2022 - Algebra 1 STAAR EOC
May 5, 2022 - 8th Grade STAAR Science
May 6, 2022- 8th Grade STAAR Social Studies
May 10, 2022- 6th, 7th, 8th STAAR Math
May 11, 2022- 6th, 7th, 8th STAAR Reading
May 20, 2022- Spanish 4 AP Test
Current HB4545 Tutorial Students:
If your student was assigned House Bill 4545 tutoring in the area(s) of math or reading based on spring 2021 STAAR scores in accordance with the state requirement and they have not completed the course that was assigned to them they are now required to come to mandatory Saturday camps until these courses are complete. You will be notified when they have met the requirements and are no longer required to attend.
Saturday HB 4545 camps will be help on April 16th, April 23rd, April 30th and May 7th in the GMS cafeteria from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Students need to be dropped off and picked up in the front of the building or can walk/ride bikes to tutoring. Students are allowed to bring food, some snacks will be provided and vending machines will be on as well.
If you have any questions regarding this please contact myself or Katherine Wood, Testing Coordinator, at woodkm@lisd.net
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
April 22, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (4/25):
TUESDAY (4/26):
- Girls Soccer v. Creek Valley MS @ GMS (5:30)
WEDNESDAY (4/27): A Day (Periods 1, 3, 5, and 7)
- Boys Soccer v. Creek Valley MS @ GMS (5:30)
THURSDAY (4/28): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
FRIDAY (4/29):
- 6th Grade Band/Choir/Orchestra SUNfest Field trip
- SPRING FAMILY NIGHT AT GMS - 6:30pm - 9:30pm
SATURDAY (4/30):
- Tutoring for HB4545 @ GMS (9:00-12:00)
Counselor Corner
For Back to School this summer, we will have two separate programs and registrations. Similar to last year, families can register online for backpacks and school supplies. Additionally, there will be a separate Health Services event for immunizations, eye exams, and physicals. Online registration for the supplies begins in April and will close on June 24th or while supplies last, whichever comes first. Schools will be distributing backpacks to the students at your student’s home campus. Each school will be reaching out to parents on or before August 5th with information on how students will receive their backpacks and supplies. Please keep an eye out in your email for more information related to the health services event and any updates regarding school supplies.
Lewisville ISD Summer School:
Location: LHS Harmon High School (1250 West Round Grove Rd, Lewisville, Tx 75067)
Dates: June 1 to June 21.
Registration: May 27th - 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m at LHS Harmon
Cost: $150 per class (max of 2 = $250) plus optional transportation fee of $125 for bus services, if family needs.
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Come join us Friday, April 29, from 6:30-9:30, as we celebrate a great year at Griffin MS! Starting at 6:30pm, work with your student to create an awesome paper plane, then put it to the test on the raceway! From 7:00 to 8:00 pm, enjoy popcorn, drinks, and snacks, write a note of thanks to a teacher, visit the TC Public Library table to find out about summer events, and try the 18 ft. slide that will be on site! There will also be a couple of food trucks to get your "munch on"! Finally, we will finish the night with a showing of, Planes, under the stars on our outdoor screen! It is sure to be a fun-filled evening, and we hope to see you there!
Spirit Night:
Raising Canes in The Colony is hosting us on April 27th from 5pm to 10pm. Stop by for dinner! Don't forget to mention Griffin Middle School when ordering.
Teacher Appreciation Week:
PTA would like our parents help in purchasing gift cards, that will be given to our teachers, to show appreciation during National Teacher Appreciation Week. We are asking for parents to please consider donating gift cards in the amount $10/ gift card to any local restaurant or store. PTA will then add these to other appreciation gifts for the week with our goal being to provide every teacher with at least 1 gift card. Gift cards can be dropped in the office at the front desk or at our upcoming Family Fun Night on April 29th. We are also accepting cash donations to be put towards this endeavor either through the ways mentioned above or via credit card on our Square site: https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/online-store?authuser=0
Please also feel free to leave cards or notes with your donations to be given to the teachers. *** Please do not place the gift cards inside the notes/envelopes **
Thank you for your help as we prepare to spoil our amazing GMS teachers!!
8th Grade Parent Information
We sent home letters this week about HB4545 tutoring for any student who MAY need it for next year. This decision is based on both Interim testing from this spring and past STAAR scores. We are working to get these meetings completed before the end of the year in order to share summer opportunities for completing the tutoring. Please check with your student to see if they received a letter. We also sent out email notifications to the parents of the students that qualified. If you have any questions, please feel free to email Mr. Cleburn (cleburng@lisd.net).
8th Grade Awards and Celebration:
We are so excited to announce that we will be able to host our 8th grade awards celebration this year! The awards assembly will begin at 2:45 pm on May 12th. Every 8th grade student will be recognized, and ALL parents are invited to attend! (We encourage you to plan on arriving between 2:15-2:35 to get a seat before 8th grade students are seated.)
8th Grade Field Trip:
8th grade students will be going to Main Event on Tuesday, May 17, to celebrate their time in Middle School. However, in order to be eligible to attend, students MUST have their permission slips AND money turned in no later than NEXT FRIDAY, April 29. For more information regarding the field trip, contact Ms. Linz at linzt@lisd.net
7th Grade Parent Information
We will host a 6th and 7th grade - combined - awards ceremony at 9:15am on May 12th. The parents of students who will be receiving an award are invited to come. You will receive a call from a GMS staff member the week of May 2-6 if your child will be receiving an award. As much as we would like to invite all parents, our facility will not accommodate that number. For parents who are invited, we encourage you to arrive between 8:30 and 9:00 am to be seated before students are escorted down.
6th Grade Parent Information
We will host a 6th and 7th grade - combined - awards ceremony at 9:15am on May 12th. The parents of students who will be receiving an award are invited to come. You will receive a call from a GMS staff member the week of May 2-6 if your child will be receiving an award. As much as we would like to invite all parents, our facility will not accommodate that number. For parents who are invited, we encourage you to arrive between 8:30 and 9:00 am to be seated before students are escorted down.
6th Grade SUNfest Contest and Field Trip:
Band, Choir, and Orchestra students who chose to participate, and have paid their money, will be competing Friday morning at SUNfest, a competition held at The Colony HS. Following the competition, these groups will be heading to Andretti's for some lunch and fun before returning to campus. As a reminder, ALL participants will need to be dropped off AT TCHS Friday Morning at the time designated by their director - there will not be a bus that transports students from Griffin to TCHS in the morning.
Schoolwide Information
Book Fair:
Thank you for all you did to make our book fair a success! A huge thanks to the Griffin PTA Volunteers and all the staff at Griffin Middle School for your support.
Remember, the fair is still online until April 27th.
https://www.scholastic.com/bf/griffinmiddleschooltc
Yearbook Sales:
Don’t forget to purchase your yearbook online. We will begin handing out this year’s book in May. Click on the link to purchase now.
https://www.balfour.com/texas/the-colony/griffin-middle-school
Upcoming Testing Dates:
Mark your calendars for these dates.
May 3, 2022 - Algebra 1 STAAR EOC
May 5, 2022 - 8th Grade STAAR Science
May 6, 2022- 8th Grade STAAR Social Studies
May 10, 2022- 6th, 7th, 8th STAAR Math
May 11, 2022- 6th, 7th, 8th STAAR Reading
May 20, 2022- Spanish 4 AP Test
Current HB4545 Tutorial Students:
If your student was assigned House Bill 4545 tutoring in the area(s) of math or reading based on spring 2021 STAAR scores in accordance with the state requirement and they have not completed the course that was assigned to them they are now required to come to mandatory Saturday camps until these courses are complete. You will be notified when they have met the requirements and are no longer required to attend.
Saturday HB 4545 camps will be help on April 16th, April 23rd, April 30th and May 7th in the GMS cafeteria from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Students need to be dropped off and picked up in the front of the building or can walk/ride bikes to tutoring. Students are allowed to bring food, some snacks will be provided and vending machines will be on as well.
If you have any questions regarding this please contact myself or Katherine Wood, Testing Coordinator, at woodkm@lisd.net
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
April 14, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
BOOK FAIR ALL WEEK
MONDAY (4/18):
TUESDAY (4/19):
- Tennis Tournament - All day
- Color Guard Tryouts for TCHS @ GMS (4:30)
- Girls Soccer v. Arbor Creek MS @ GMS (5:30)
- Thespian Banquet @ GMS (5:30)
WEDNESDAY (4/20): A Day (Periods 1, 3, 5, and 7)
- Boys Soccer v. Lakeview MS @ TCHS (5:30)
THURSDAY (4/21): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
- Band pictures (2:00)
- Color Guard Tryouts for TCHS @ GMS (4:30)
- NJHS Induction @ GMS (5:00)
FRIDAY (4/22):
- Symphonic/Wind Ensemble Band Field Trip
SATURDAY (4/23):
- Tutoring for HB4545 @ GMS (9:00-12:00)
- Orchestra Solo/Ensemble - All Day
**SPRING FAMILY NIGHT AT GMS - APRIL 29**
Spring Book Fair
This week is our first in person book fair in over two years! We are excited to share books and more with our readers. Students will visit the fair with their classes during their English Classes on Monday (6th grade + Mrs. Fairchild), Tuesday (7th Grade + Mrs. Malecki), and Wednesday (8th Grade + Mrs. Mitchem)
Families can also visit the fair on Thursday, April 21st from 4-6 PM before the NJHS induction ceremony! Students can also shop the fair with teacher permission, before school during homeroom, after school until 4:15.
The book fair accepts: Cash, Credit/Debit Cards, and eWallet
The eWallet is similar to a giftcard, and any money not spent at the fair will remain in the eWallet until the next fair, or it can be spent online.
Shop our fair online, or set up your student's eWallet at: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/griffinmiddleschooltc
Counselor Corner
Advisory Lessons
The following links are for the upcoming suicide prevention curriculum which will be presented in advisory mid April. Please take a look at the first link below to see an overview of what is being taught. If you are wanting to opt out of these lessons, please fill it out and send it back to your counselor. If you do not reply to opt out of this guidance lesson, your student will participate April 18th.
Mrs. Cole - 6th A-I, All 7th
Mrs. Dixon - 6th J-Z, All 8th
Lewisville ISD Summer School:
Location: LHS Harmon High School (1250 West Round Grove Rd, Lewisville, Tx 75067)Dates: June 1 to June 21.
Registration: May 27th - 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m at LHS Harmon
Cost: $150 per class (max of 2 = $250) plus optional transportation fee of $125 for bus services, if family needs.
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
SPIRIT NIGHTS:
Join us at the Allen Americans Professional Hockey Club where they are offering discounted tickets to their game on April 15th for our school spirit night.Tickets are $16. The Club will then donate $6 back to our school - please type in Griffin Middle School The Colony when ordering
To purchase tickets visit this link: https://fevo.me/3L1oiog
Raising Canes in The Colony is hosting us on April 27th from 5pm to 10pm. Stop by for dinner! Don't forget to mention Griffin Middle School when ordering.
Teacher Appreciation Week:
PTA would like our parents help in purchasing gift cards, that will be given to our teachers, to show appreciation during National Teacher Appreciation Week. We are asking for parents to please consider donating gift cards in the amount $10/ gift card to any local restaurant or store. PTA will then add these to other appreciation gifts for the week with our goal being to provide every teacher with at least 1 gift card. Gift cards can be dropped in the office at the front desk or at our upcoming Family Fun Night on April 29th. We are also accepting cash donations to be put towards this endeavor either through the ways mentioned above or via credit card on our Square site: https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/online-store?authuser=0
Please also feel free to leave cards or notes with your donations to be given to the teachers. *** Please do not place the gift cards inside the notes/envelopes **
Thank you for your help as we prepare to spoil our amazing GMS teachers!!
Schoolwide Information
Spring Family Night:
We will then have our Spring Community Night here at GMS on Friday, April 29, starting at 6:00 PM. We will have paper airplane races, games and activities, food trucks, and more. We will end the evening with a showing of Planes on the front lawn, starting at 8:00 pm. I hope you will be able to join us for one or both events!
HB4545 Meetings for 22-23:
Some of you may have received emails and/or letters that came home with your student inviting you to participate in a short meeting to discuss summer opportunities should your child need to complete the required 30 of supplemental instruction in one or more areas. We are just beginning to schedule these meetings and send information to families. If you have not been contacted, you may receive an email in the next week or so inviting you to join us. Please know that participation is certainly not required but always welcomed.
Yearbook Sales:
Don’t forget to purchase your yearbook online. We will begin handing out this year’s book in May. Click on the link to purchase now.
https://www.balfour.com/texas/the-colony/griffin-middle-school
Upcoming Testing Dates:
Mark your calendars for these dates.
May 3, 2022 - Algebra 1 STAAR EOC
May 5, 2022 - 8th Grade STAAR Science
May 6, 2022- 8th Grade STAAR Social Studies
May 10, 2022- 6th, 7th, 8th STAAR Math
May 11, 2022- 6th, 7th, 8th STAAR Reading
May 20, 2022- Spanish 4 AP Test
Current HB4545 Tutorial Students:
If your student was assigned House Bill 4545 tutoring in the area(s) of math or reading based on spring 2021 STAAR scores in accordance with the state requirement and they have not completed the course that was assigned to them they are now required to come to mandatory Saturday camps until these courses are complete. You will be notified when they have met the requirements and are no longer required to attend.
Saturday HB 4545 camps will be help on April 16th, April 23rd, April 30th and May 7th in the GMS cafeteria from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Students need to be dropped off and picked up in the front of the building or can walk/ride bikes to tutoring. Students are allowed to bring food, some snacks will be provided and vending machines will be on as well.
If you have any questions regarding this please contact myself or Katherine Wood, Testing Coordinator, at woodkm@lisd.net
LISD Summer Learning Opportunities:
As was mentioned in the Counselor Corner, we will begin contacting parents of students whose grades for the first three 9 weeks indicate they will not pass for the year. Of course this is not something we wish for any of our students; however, studies show it is more beneficial for students to attend summer school and move on with their peers, than be retained.
There will also be opportunities this summer for students who find themselves needing the 30 hour of supplemental instruction due to TEA's House Bill 4545. More information regarding dates and times will be coming in the next few weeks. Please be reminded that students who do not meet the standard set by TEA on STAAR will be required to have 30 hours of supplemental tutoring in each content area with deficits. Notification of who this impacts will come out once STAAR scores are posted (mid to late June).
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
April 8, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (4/11):
- Campuswide Assembly
- Girls Soccer v. Lakeview MS @ TCHS (5:30)
- Parent Night - Be a Coffee Bean - TCHS PAC @ 6:00 pm
TUESDAY (4/12):
- Progress Reports Posted
- Boys Soccer v. Lakeview MS @ TCHS (5:30)
WEDNESDAY (4/13): A Day (Periods 1, 3, 5, and 7)
- 2022 Travel Group Meeting
THURSDAY (4/14): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
- Wind Ensemble Contest
FRIDAY (4/15): NO SCHOOL
**SPRING FAMILY NIGHT AT GMS - APRIL 29**
Spring Book Fair
Griffin Middle School will have their first in-person book fair since 2019! We will be open April 18-22, including shopping on Thursday, April 21st before the NJHS induction ceremony! (see the flyer below)
Save the Date: Book Fair April 18-22 (open late on THURSDAY from 4-6)
Family Engagement Opportunities
We have two upcoming events to share with you! Best Selling Author and Motivational Speaker, Damon West, will be speaking to families in the TC area on Monday, April 11, at 6:00 pm at TCHS, and he will be signing books afterwards. You can get one of his books, The Coffee Bean, for free by completing the the form HERE.
We will then have our Spring Community Night here at GMS on Friday, April 29, starting at 6:00 PM. We will have paper airplane races, games and activities, food trucks, and more. We will end the evening with a showing of Planes on the front lawn, starting at 8:00 pm. I hope you will be able to join us for one or both events!
Counselor Corner
Advisory Lessons:
The following links are for the upcoming suicide prevention curriculum which will be presented in advisory mid-April. Please take a look at the first link below to see an overview of what is being taught. If you are wanting to opt out of these lessons, please fill it out and send it back to your counselor. If you do not reply to opt out of this guidance lesson, your student will participate April 18th.
Mrs. Cole - 6th A-I, All 7th
Mrs. Dixon - 6th J-Z, All 8th
Second Step Guidance curriculum Parent Newsletter
Check out the previews of upcoming lessons during advisory!
Advisory Lesson 24
Weekly Family Communications Link for 6th-8th Grade, Unit 4 Lesson 24
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
SPIRIT NIGHTS:
Join us at the Allen Americans Professional Hockey Club where they are offering discounted tickets to their game on April 15th for our school spirit night.Tickets are $16. The Club will then donate $6 back to our school - please type in Griffin Middle School The Colony when ordering
To purchase tickets visit this link: https://fevo.me/3L1oiog
Raising Canes in The Colony is hosting us on April 27th from 5pm to 10pm. Stop by for dinner! Don't forget to mention Griffin Middle School when ordering.
Teacher Appreciation Week:
PTA would like our parents help in purchasing gift cards, that will be given to our teachers, to show appreciation during National Teacher Appreciation Week. We are asking for parents to please consider donating gift cards in the amount $10/ gift card to any local restaurant or store. PTA will then add these to other appreciation gifts for the week withour goal being to provide every teacher with at least 1 gift card. Gift cards can be dropped in the office at the front desk or at our upcoming Family Fun Night on April 29th. We are also accepting cash donations to be put towards this endeavor either through the ways mentioned above or via credit card on our Square site: https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/online-store?authuser=0
Please also feel free to leave cards or notes with your donations to be given to the teachers. *** Please do not place the gift cards inside the notes/envelopes **
Thank you for your help as we prepare to spoil our amazing GMS teachers!!
Schoolwide Information
Yearbook Sales:
Don’t forget to purchase your yearbook online. We will begin handing out this year’s book in May. Click on the link to purchase now.
https://www.balfour.com/texas/the-colony/griffin-middle-school
Upcoming Testing Dates:
Mark your calendars for these dates.
May 3, 2022 - Algebra 1 STAAR EOC
May 5, 2022 - 8th Grade STAAR Science
May 6, 2022- 8th Grade STAAR Social Studies
May 10, 2022- 6th, 7th, 8th STAAR Math
May 11, 2022- 6th, 7th, 8th STAAR Reading
May 20, 2022- Spanish 4 AP Test
Current HB4545 Tutorial Students:
If your student was assigned House Bill 4545 tutoring in the area(s) of math or reading based on spring 2021 STAAR scores in accordance with the state requirement and they have not completed the course that was assigned to them they are now required to come to mandatory Saturday camps until these courses are complete. You will be notified when they have met the requirements and are no longer required to attend.
Saturday HB 4545 camps will be help on April 16th, April 23rd, April 30th and May 7th in the GMS cafeteria from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Students need to be dropped off and picked up in the front of the building or can walk/ride bikes to tutoring. Students are allowed to bring food, some snacks will be provided and vending machines will be on as well.
If you have any questions regarding this please contact myself or Katherine Wood, Testing Coordinator, at woodkm@lisd.net
LISD Summer Learning Opportunities:
As was mentioned in the Counselor Corner, we will begin contacting parents of students whose grades for the first three 9 weeks indicate they will not pass for the year. Of course this is not something we wish for any of our students; however, studies show it is more beneficial for students to attend summer school and move on with their peers, than be retained.
There will also be opportunities this summer for students who find themselves needing the 30 hour of supplemental instruction due to TEA's House Bill 4545. More information regarding dates and times will be coming in the next few weeks. Please be reminded that students who do not meet the standard set by TEA on STAAR will be required to have 30 hours of supplemental tutoring in each content area with deficits. Notification of who this impacts will come out once STAAR scores are posted (mid to late June).
TCHS Middle School Swim Team:
The TCHS Middle School Swim Team is looking for a few great students interested in learning the skills of being a strong swimmer! If your student is interested, check out the Flyer below!
TCHS Topcats Dance Clinic:
The Topcats are so excited to welcome back our TopKitten Dance Clinic! We invite you to come dance with us on April 9th! Registration is open now for all dancers Grade K-8th! See the Flyer below!
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
April 1, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (4/4):
- District Track Meet @ LHS - 4:30 - Field Events only
TUESDAY (4/5):
- Parent Meeting for 2023 London/Paris Student Trip
WEDNESDAY (4/6): A Day (Periods 1, 3, 5, and 7)
- District Track Meet @ LHS - 4:30 - Running Events
- Middle School Tennis Tournament @ TCHS
THURSDAY (4/7): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
- UNT Wind Ensemble Concert in Denton @ 5:00 PM
FRIDAY (4/8):
- AVID Field Trip
**TCHS Feeder Pattern Invites you to here how to "Be a Coffee Bean"! (See flyer below)**
**SPRING FAMILY NIGHT AT GMS - APRIL 29**
Family Engagement Opportunities
We have two upcoming events to share with you! Best Selling Author and Motivational Speaker, Damon West, will be speaking to families in the TC area on Monday, April 11, at 6:00 pm at TCHS, and he will be signing books afterwards. You can get one of his books, The Coffee Bean, for free by completing the the form HERE.
We will then have our Spring Community Night here at GMS on Friday, April 29, starting at 6:00 PM. We will have paper airplane races, games and activities, food trucks, and more. We will end the evening with a showing of Planes on the front lawn, starting at 8:00 pm. I hope you will be able to join us for one or both events!
Counselor Corner
Advisory Lessons:
The following links are for the upcoming suicide prevention curriculum which will be presented in advisory mid April. Please take a look at the first link below to see an overview of what is being taught. If you are wanting to opt out of these lessons, please fill it out and send it back to your counselor. If you do not reply to opt out of this guidance lesson, your student will participate April 18th.
Mrs. Cole - 6th A-I, All 7th
Mrs. Dixon - 6th J-Z, All 8th
Second Step Guidance curriculum Parent Newsletter:
Check out the previews of upcoming lessons during advisory!
Advisory Lesson 23
Weekly Family Communications Link for 6th-8th Grade, Unit 4 Lesson 23
Lewisville ISD Summer School:
Location: LHS Harmon High School (1250 West Round Grove Rd, Lewisville, Tx 75067)Dates: June 1 to June 21.
Registration: May 27th - 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m at LHS Harmon
Cost: $150 per class (max of 2 = $250) plus optional transportation fee of $125 for bus services, if family needs.
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Thank a Teacher:
The teachers at GMS work hard to give our students excellent learning experiences. Did you know May 2-6 is Teachers Appreciation Week? It can be difficult give a gift of appreciation teachers in middle school simply because your student has so many different teachers! This year, GMS PTA wants to make this a little easier on you! We will be collecting gift cards and/or monetary contributions throughout the month of April. We will then share the gifts of gratitude with all teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week. More information will be coming throughout April!
Save the Dates:
- Spirit Night at Chick fil a The Colony (on Main), April 5th
- Spirit Night at The Yard, April 8th
- Family Fun Night at GMS, April 29th
Let's Connect!
Stay in touch with the fun and exciting things the Griffin PTA has going on in our school!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GriffinPTATC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griffinpta_tc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/pta_griffin
Looking For Ways to Help?
Do you only have an hour here or there? Do you have so much time you need a project? PTA is looking for some helpers this year and also anyone looking to join us next year. We would love to talk to you and see where your interest lie, what time commitment you have etc. We CAN work around you! GriffinPTA@Yahoo.com
GMS Spring Book Fair
Griffin Middle School will have their first in-person book fair since 2019! We will be open April 18-22, including shopping on Thursday, April 21st before the NJHS induction ceremony! (see the flyer below)
Save the Date: Book Fair April 18-22 (open late on THURSDAY from 4-6)
The Griffin Pride Takes London and Paris!
Big news, Griffin Middle School parents! Your student has the opportunity to travel to London and Paris with me in Summer 2023. I’ll be going over all the details in my info session. Use this link to RSVP to the meeting: https://bit.ly/3MPG6Ve
Do you dream about your child having the opportunity to travel the world? This is their chance! Come to our informational meeting on April 5th at 6:00 PM to learn more about my upcoming 2023 trip to London and Paris. Make sure you RSVP to the meeting here: https://bit.ly/3MPG6Ve
Travel is so much more than just planes and trains! Your child will gain new perspectives, develop a sense of independence, and build skills for the future through this experience. Don’t forget to RSVP to the meeting here: https://bit.ly/3MPG6Ve for more details about this 2023 trip.
Don’t miss out! Griffin Middle School’s tour to London and Paris in Summer 2023 is going to be an amazing adventure—and I want your child there with me. Visit https://bit.ly/3MPG6Ve and make sure to RSVP to the meeting TODAY to learn more!
Schoolwide Information
Spring Fling Dance is TONIGHT!
We hope your student will come out tonight from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm and join us for our Spring Dance! The cost is $3 at the door, and there will be snacks sold as well as an ice cream truck parked for students to purchase. Dress attire is casual - school dress code will be enforced. THe only exception to this is that hats will be permitted. Please make sure someone is at school no later than 8:00 pm to pick up students, as they will not be able to wait inside the building.
LISD Summer Learning Opportunities:
As was mentioned in the Counselor Corner, we will begin contacting parents of students whose grades for the first three 9 weeks indicate they will not pass for the year. Of course this is not something we wish for any of our students; however, studies show it is more beneficial for students to attend summer school and move on with their peers, than be retained.
There will also be opportunities this summer for students who find themselves needing the 30 hour of supplemental instruction due to TEA's House Bill 4545. More information regarding dates and times will be coming in the next few weeks. Please be reminded that students who do not meet the standard set by TEA on STAAR will be required to have 30 hours of supplemental tutoring in each content area with deficits. Notification of who this impacts will come out once STAAR scores are posted (mid to late June).
Review if LISD Dress Code:
Your students will be receiving an email asking them to complete a short survey over dress code. The district will be reviewing student and staff feedback as they look at revising the current policy.
TCHS Middle School Swim Team:
The TCHS Middle School Swim Team is looking for a few great students interested in learning the skills of being a strong swimmer! If your student is interested, check out the Flyer below!
TCHS Topcats Dance Clinic:
The Topcats are so excited to welcome back our TopKitten Dance Clinic! We invite you to come dance with us on April 9th! Registration is open now for all dancers Grade K-8th! See the Flyer below!
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
March 25, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (3/28):
- Track Meet @ FMHS - 4:30
TUESDAY (3/29):
WEDNESDAY (3/30): A Day (Periods 1, 3, 5, and 7)
- Wind Ensemble UIL
- GMS Winterguard performance @ MHS - 4:30
THURSDAY (3/31): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
- Wind Ensemble UIL
FRIDAY (4/1):
- GMS Spring Dance 6:00-8:00 @ GMS cafeteria
**SPRING FAMILY NIGHT AT GMS - APRIL 29**
The Book Fair Is Back!
Griffin Middle School will have their first in-person book fair since 2019! We will be open April 18-22, including shopping on Thursday, April 21st before the NJHS induction ceremony! (see the flyer below)
Save the Date: Book Fair April 18-22 (open late on THURSDAY from 4-6)
Counselor Corner
Advisory Lessons:
The following links are for the upcoming suicide prevention curriculum which will be presented in advisory mid April. Please take a look at the first link below to see an overview of what is being taught. If you are wanting to opt out of these lessons, please fill it out and send it back to your counselor. If you do not reply to opt out of this guidance lesson, your student will participate April 18th.
Mrs. Cole - 6th A-I, All 7th
Mrs. Dixon - 6th J-Z, All 8th
Lewisville ISD Summer School:
- Location: LHS Harmon High School (1250 West Round Grove Rd, Lewisville, Tx 75067)
- Dates: June 1 to June 21.
- Registration: May 27th - 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m at LHS Harmon
- Cost: $150 per class (max of 2 = $250) plus optional transportation fee of $125 for bus services, if family needs.
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Thank a Teacher:
The teachers at GMS work hard to give our students excellent learning experiences. Did you know May 2-6 is Teachers Appreciation Week? It can be difficult give a gift of appreciation teachers in middle school simply because your student has so many different teachers! This year, GMS PTA wants to make this a little easier on you! We will be collecting gift cards and/or monetary contributions throughout the month of April. We will then share the gifts of gratitude with all teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week. More information will be coming throughout April!
Save the Dates:
- Spirit Night at Chick fil a The Colony (on Main), April 5th
- Spirit Night at The Yard, April 8th
- Family Fun Night at GMS, April 29th
We Want to Say THANK YOU!
A big thank you to Sean at The Copy Shop in The Colony for your generous donation and copy service. We greatly appreciate your continued support!!
Let's Connect!
Stay in touch with the fun and exciting things the Griffin PTA has going on in our school!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GriffinPTATC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griffinpta_tc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/pta_griffin
Looking For Ways to Help?
Do you only have an hour here or there? Do you have so much time you need a project? PTA is looking for some helpers this year and also anyone looking to join us next year. We would love to talk to you and see where your interest lie, what time commitment you have etc. We CAN work around you! GriffinPTA@Yahoo.com
Schoolwide Information
GMS Spring Fling (Dance):
For the first time since 2019, we are able to host a dance for our amazing GMS students! NJHS is sponsoring our Spring Fling next Friday, April 1 from 6:00-8:00 pm(I know what you are thinking, but this is not an April Fool's Joke!) Cost of the dance is $2 for those who purchase them in the morning on May 31 or April 1, or $3 at the door that evening. The GMS StuCo will be selling snacks during the dance as well. Please note that the campus will close to all students after school Friday and reopen for the dance; students are not able to stay at school until the dance starts. Check out the flyer above for more information!
LISD Summer School:
As was mentioned in the Counselor Corner, we will begin contacting parents of students whose grades for the first three 9 weeks indicate they will not pass for the year. Of course this is not something we wish for any of our students; however, studies show it is more beneficial for students to attend summer school and move on with their peers, than be retained.
Morning and Afternoon Car Lines:
Please be reminded of our drop off and pick up procedures - following these guidelines is important for the safety of our students and staff.
Drop off in the morning:
- Pull up past the flagpole if there are no cars in front of you before stopping to drop off your student.
- Do not stop unless you are at the curb on the right side of the drive through lane.
- Continue through the drive through lane to the exit by the rec center to exit out of the parking lot.
- Please do not pull into the parking lot area to drop off students unless you are needing to park and enter the building. This is where we have had several "close calls" with students and staff.
- Follow the traffic patterns we created at the beginning of the school year.
- 6th grade students and siblings will enter on the west (close to Peters Colony Elementary) and pick up by the flagpole
- 7th and 8th students exit the building on the east end (by the playground and rec center) and should be picked up using the east entrance and following the line up to the drive through lane by the band/choir/orchestra rooms.
- Pull over the curb on the right side of the drive through lane to pick up your student; do not stop in the middle of the drive.
- Please do not have students come into the parking lot to get into your car - as that is where we have had several "close calls."
NCTC Spring Technology Camp:
We are excited to announce that the opportunity is now open for the NCTC IT 2022 Spring Technology Camp. It is totally FREE, BUT limited to 40 Campers! The Spring Camp will consist of two technologies where the Campers will receive hands on experience in these technologies:
- Industrial Technology - Drones, and 3D printing
- Information Technology - Cyber Security, Raspberry PI’s, and Coding Robots
Date/Time: Saturday, April 2, 2022 - 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: NCTC Flower Mound Campus, 200 Parker Sq. Rd, Flower Mound, TX 75028
Grades: Current 6th, 7th, and 8th Grade students
Signup Link: goforit.nctc.edu (to request an application)
Once you complete the sign up, the parent/guardian will receive an application packet via email The Students will be placed on the acceptance list once the application packet is completed and returned.
TCHS Sports Camp:
Check out this FLIER from The Colony High School for the 2022 Sports Camp Schedule. Sports included are Baseball, Soccer, Basketball, Wrestling, Swimming, Volleyball, and Football>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
March 20, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (3/21):
TUESDAY (3/22):
- Track Meet @ LHS - 4:30
WEDNESDAY (3/23): A Day (Periods 1, 3, 5, and 7)
- Campuswide Interim Testing
THURSDAY (3/24): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
- Campuswide Interim Testing
FRIDAY (3/25):
- 6th grade Field Trip to the Ft. Worth Zoo
**SPRING FAMILY NIGHT AT GMS - APRIL 22**
Counselor's Corner
Grades for the 3rd Nine Weeks:
Students are finishing up the 3rd nine weeks of school and grades will be submitted the week after Spring Break. At that time, counselors and teachers will begin notifying parents if their child is at risk of failing any classes or being required to attend summer school for credit recovery. There will be phone calls and emails so please check your school listed email address for communication from the Griffin staff.
Lewisville ISD Summer School:
- Location: LHS Harmon High School (1250 West Round Grove Rd, Lewisville, Tx 75067)
- Dates: June 1 to June 21.
- Registration: May 27th - 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m at LHS Harmon
- Cost: $150 per class (max of 2 = $250) plus optional transportation fee of $125 for bus services, if family needs.
Second Step Guidance curriculum Parent Newsletter:
Check out the previews to upcoming lessons during advisory!
Lesson 22 - Week of March 21-25
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Dad's and Dude's Club
What is Dad's and Dude's Club? We are currently looking for male role models in our community to come to the school on the last Friday of every month from 8am to 8:55am (or any time in between) to welcome our students and staff into the building. You can be that loud crazy guy giving high fives and fist bumps to the more quiet dad who gives the simple head nod and hello. We NEED you! Our next DC date is Friday, March 25th. Let us know you're coming: GriffinPTA@yahoo.com
Let's Connect!
Stay in touch with the fun and exciting things the Griffin PTA has going on in our school!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GriffinPTATC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griffinpta_tc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/pta_griffin
Looking For Ways to Help?
Do you only have an hour here or there? Do you have so much time you need a project? PTA is looking for some helpers this year and also anyone looking to join us next year. We would love to talk to you and see where your interest lie, what time commitment you have etc. We CAN work around you! GriffinPTA@Yahoo.com
Schoolwide Information
This week marks the start of the 4th nine weeks of school, and it is going to fly by! Not only will students continue learning content in each of their classes, all of the state required testing be occurring as well. Last year, the state allowed parents to have students "opt out" of state testing due to the combination of in person and virtual learning. However, this year all students are required to take the assessments. Most of these assessments will occur in May, and you can find the exact dates on the GMS website at lisd.net/griffin.
HB4545 for 22-23:
Some of your students have been participating in the 30 hours of state required tutoring for areas where they did not meet the passing standard on the 20-21 state assessments. This 30 hours of tutoring requirement will continue for students who do not meet the passing standard on the STAAR/EOC tests this spring. However, we are making plans now to be able to offer this tutoring BEFORE the start of the 22-23 school year. Once the dates and times are finalized, I will be sending more information out; however, we are looking at offering a tutorial "camp" in mid to late July for all students who are in need of this tutoring.
Interim Testing This Week:
We will be giving Interim tests in reading and math this week for all 6th-8th grade students. Math will be given on Wednesday, March 23, and Reading will be on Thursday, March 24. Please help ensure your student brings their ipad - FULLY CHARGED - to school on those days! The purpose for these tests is to evaluate students' strengths and weaknesses so that teachers are able to focus on areas of greatest need as we approach the state assessments. This is also a great opportunity for students to self-evaluate their own progress and identify areas where they may need to ask for help. Our hope is by providing this practice, more students will be able to meet the passing standard on the state assessments in May.
LISD Summer School:
As was mentioned in the Counselor Corner, we will begin contacting parents of students whose grades for the first three 9 weeks indicate they will not pass for the year. Of course this is not something we wish for any of our students; however, studies show it is more beneficial for students to attend summer school and move on with their peers, than be retained.
Morning and Afternoon Car Lines:
Please be reminded of our drop off and pick up procedures - following these guidelines is important for the safety of our students and staff.
Drop off in the morning:
- Pull up past the flagpole if there are no cars in front of you before stopping to drop off your student.
- Do not stop unless you are at the curb on the right side of the drive through lane.
- Continue through the drive through lane to the exit by the rec center to exit out of the parking lot.
- Please do not pull into the parking lot area to drop off students unless you are needing to park and enter the building. This is where we have had several "close calls" with students and staff.
- Follow the traffic patterns we created at the beginning of the school year.
- 6th grade students and siblings will enter on the west (close to Peters Colony Elementary) and pick up by the flagpole
- 7th and 8th students exit the building on the east end (by the playground and rec center) and should be picked up using the east entrance and following the line up to the drive through lane by the band/choir/orchestra rooms.
- Pull over the curb on the right side of the drive through lane to pick up your student; do not stop in the middle of the drive.
- Please do not have students come into the parking lot to get into your car - as that is where we have had several "close calls."
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
March 4, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?!
MONDAY (3/7):
- Symphonic Band UIL
- Track Meet @ 4:30 Location TCHS
TUESDAY (3/8):
- Griffin Open House: Come and Go between 6:00-7:30 pm
- Orchestra UIL
THURSDAY (3/10): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
- 2023 DC/NY Trip Informational meeting @6:00 pm GMS Cafeteria
FRIDAY (3/11):
- Early Release for Students @ 1:00 pm
**SPRING BREAK IS MARCH 14-18**
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Let's Connect!
Stay in touch with the fun and exciting things the Griffin PTA has going on in our school!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GriffinPTATC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griffinpta_tc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/pta_griffin
Looking for ways to help?
Do you only have an hour here or there? Do you have so much time you need a project? PTA is looking for some helpers this year and also anyone looking to join us next year. We would love to talk to you and see where your interest lie, what time commitment you have etc. We CAN work around you! GriffinPTA@Yahoo.com
School Wide Information
OPEN HOUSE:
Griffin's Open House will be Tuesday evening from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. The format will be a casual "Come and Go," so you can work you schedule around any other commitments you may have that evening. We hope you will stop by and visit with your child's teachers as you are able!
NCTC Spring Technology Camp:
We are excited to announce that the opportunity is now open for the NCTC IT 2022 Spring Technology Camp. It is totally FREE, BUT limited to 40 Campers! The Spring Camp will consist of two technologies where the Campers will receive hands on experience in these technologies:
- Industrial Technology - Drones, and 3D printing
- Information Technology - Cyber Security, Raspberry PI’s, and Coding Robots
Date/Time: Saturday, April 2, 2022 - 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: NCTC Flower Mound Campus, 200 Parker Sq. Rd, Flower Mound, TX 75028
Grades: Current 6th, 7th, and 8th Grade students
Signup Link: goforit.nctc.edu (to request an application)
Once you complete the sign up, the parent/guardian will receive an application packet via email The Students will be placed on the acceptance list once the application packet is completed and returned.
LISD Middle School Art Show:
Whether you have a student currently in art, or if you want to know more about what middle school art class is about, be sure to check out the LISD Middle School Art Show that is held March 4th through the 19th at the Lewisville Grand Theatre Gallery. Check out the flyer below for a more information!
Send your Kids to Washington DC and NYC:
Current 6th and 7th grade students who are interested in seeing a different part of our amazing country, this is your chance! Come to a meeting with Ms. Hartman Thursday, March 10, at 6:00 PM (GMS cafeteria) to find out all the logistics and opportunities to travel in the summer of 2023! Check out the fliers below for more information!
Just Keep Swimming:
Why wait until summer to get your "swim" on? Did you know TC has a middle school swim team? They do, and the season is about to begin! Check out the flyer below for more information on how to join the swim team! You can also email Coach Peele at peelej@lisd.net
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
February 25, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (2/28):
- Track Meet @ 4:30 Location TCHS
TUESDAY (3/1):
- Spring Picture Day
THURSDAY (3/3): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
FRIDAY (3/4):
- 7th Grade Field Trip
- LISD Middle School Art Show Opens @ Lewisville Grand Theatre Gallery
**SPRING BREAK IS MARCH 14-18**
Counselor Corner
Love and Logic
Interested in becoming a love and logic parent? Raise self-confident, motivated children who are ready for the real world. Loving, yet powerful tools for parenting children of all ages. Check out this FLIER for free upcoming sessions virtually on WebEx.TCHS Sports Camp:
Check out this FLIER from The Colony High School for the 2022 Sports Camp Schedule. Sports included are Baseball, Soccer, Basketball, Wrestling, Swimming, Volleyball, and FootballTogether We Rise (Griffin MS PTA)
Dad's and Dude's Club
What is Dad's and Dude's Club? We are currently looking for male role models in our community to come to the school on the last Friday of every month from 8am to 8:55am (or any time in between) to welcome our students and staff into the building. You can be that loud crazy guy giving high fives and fist bumps to the more quiet dad who gives the simple head nod and hello. We NEED you! Our next DC date is Friday, March 25th. Let us know you're coming: GriffinPTA@yahoo.com
Stay in touch with the fun and exciting things the Griffin PTA has going on in our school!
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/GriffinPTATC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griffinpta_tc/
Twitter:https://twitter.com/pta_griffin
Looking for ways to help?
Do you only have an hour here or there? Do you have so much time you need a project? PTA is looking for some helpers this year and also anyone looking to join us next year. We would love to talk to you and see where your interest lie, what time commitment you have etc. We CAN work around you! GriffinPTA@Yahoo.com
Schoolwide Information
LISD Middle School Art Show:
Whether you have a student currently in art, or if you want to know more about what middle school art class is about, be sure to check out the LISD Middle School Art Show that is held March 4th through the 19th at the Lewisville Grand Theatre Gallery. Check out the flyer below for more information!
NCTC IT 2022 Spring Technology Camp:
We are excited to announce that the NCTC IT 2022 Spring Technology Camp registration is now open, and it is totally FREE! However, it is limited to 40 Campers, so get your student's name in soon! The Spring Camp will consist of two areas of technology where campers will receive hands on experience:
- Industrial Technology - Drones, and 3D printing
- Information Technology - Cyber Security, Raspberry PI’s, and Coding Robots
The Camp will take place at the NCTC Flower Mound Campus from 8:30am - 12:00pm on Saturday, April 2. Sign up today at the link below:
Link to request an application: goforit.nctc.edu (See flyer below)
Spring Picture Day Is March 1:
Students should have received a flyer and order packet already (if not, pick one up in the front office)
If you want to order these pictures, bring the order packet and money to get your picture on March 1
To pre-pay online for Spring Pictures, parents can go to https://my.lifetouch.com/mylifetouch/#/ The Picture Day ID is EVTVSWS8S
Send your Kids to Washington DC and NYC:
Current 6th and 7th grade students who are interested in seeing a different part of our amazing country, this is your chance! Come to a meeting with Ms. Hartman Thursday, March 10, at 6:00 PM (GMS cafeteria) to find out all the logistics and opportunities to travel in the summer of 2023! Check out the fliers below for more information!
HB 4545 Required Supplemental Instruction for ELAR began February 14th. If your student was assigned Math tutoring and has not completed their 30 hours of APEX or IXL they need to continue working and complete their assigned course by May 1st. If you have further questions please email Mrs. Wood at woodkm@lisd.net
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
February 18, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (2/14): NO SCHOOL - President's Day
TUESDAY (2/15):
- Track Meet @ 4:30 Location TBD
THURSDAY (2/17): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
FRIDAY (2/18):
**SPRING BREAK IS MARCH 14-18**
Counselor's Corner
TCHS Sports Camp:
Check out the flier below from The Colony High School for the 2022 Sports Camp Schedule. Sports included are Baseball, Soccer, Basketball, Wrestling, Swimming, Volleyball, and Football
Love and Logic
Interested in becoming a love and logic parent? Raise self-confident, motivated children who are ready for the real world. Loving, yet powerful tools for parenting children of all ages. Check out the flier below for free upcoming sessions virtually on WebEx.Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Dad's and Dude's Club:
What is Dad's and Dude's Club? We are currently looking for male role models in our community to come to the school on the last Friday of every month from 8am to 8:55am (or any time in between) to welcome our students and staff into the building. You can be that loud crazy guy giving high fives and fist bumps to the more quiet dad who gives the simple head nod and hello. We NEED you! Our next DC date is Friday, February 25th. Let us know you're coming:GriffinPTA@yahoo.com
Stay in touch with the fun and exciting things the Griffin PTA has going on in our school!
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/GriffinPTATC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griffinpta_tc/
Twitter:https://twitter.com/pta_griffin
Looking for ways to help?
Do you only have an hour here or there? Do you have so much time you need a project? PTA is looking for some helpers this year and also anyone looking to join us next year. We would love to talk to you and see where your interest lie, what time commitment you have etc. We CAN work around you! GriffinPTA@Yahoo.com
Schoolwide Information
Open House:
Tuesday, March 8, we will be hosting our Spring Open House from 6:00-7:30. This will be come and go opportunity to visit your student's current teachers. There is no schedule to follow, so you can come and go at your convenience between the time frame listed above. We look forward to seeing you!
Scoliosis Screening:
On Wednesday February 23rd and Thursday February 24th, we will be performing mandatory scoliosis screenings for 7th grade girls and 8th grade boys. This state mandated screening requires students to remove their shirts, so please ensure your children wear appropriate undergarments. If you choose to not have your child participate here at school, you may send in a physical form from your child’s pediatrician or a religious exemption note. These screenings will take place during PE and/or athletics.
GT Information:
Our spring GT referral window will be open until March 4th. When determining whether you should refer your student for GT, please consider the following characteristics. If you would like to move forward with the referral process, please visit the district GT website.
Some common characteristics of GT students include the following:
- Advanced Language
- Analytical Thinking
- Meaning Motivation (curious as to the "why" and motivated to learn in order to make meaning of something)
- Perspective
- Sense of Humor
- Sensitivity
- Accelerated Learning
HB 4545 Required Supplemental Instruction has started for students who did not meet standard on Spring 2021 STAAR or for students who did not take the 2021 STAAR and did not meet standard on the district alternative screener test. If your student was identified as needing supplemental instruction to relearn this content you have received emails and notifications from Mrs. Wood as well as your students assigned tutor. ELAR HB 4545 Tutorials began February 14th. If your student was assigned Math tutoring and has not completed their 30 hours of APEX or IXL they need to continue working and complete their assigned course by May 1st. If you have further questions please email Mrs. Wood at woodkm@lisd.net
Send your Kids to Washington DC and NYC:
Current 6th and 7th grade students who are interested in seeing a different part of our amazing country, this is your chance! Come to a meeting with Ms. Hartman Thursday, February 24, at 6:00 PM (GMS cafeteria) to find out all the logistics and opportunities to travel in the summer of 2023! Check out the fliers below for more information!
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
February 11, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (2/14): Valentine's Day
- All gifts/deliveries will have to stay in the front office until the end of the day
TUESDAY (2/15):
THURSDAY (2/17): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
- Algebra EOC Field Test (Algebra students only)
FRIDAY (2/18):
**NO SCHOOL ON MONDAY, FEBRUARY 21**
Counselor Corner
8th Grade Parents:
Check out this FLIER from The Colony High School for the 2022 Sports Camp Schedule. Sports included are Baseball, Soccer, Basketball, Wrestling, Swimming, Volleyball, and Football.8th Grade Student Registration:
Today is the last day for 8th grade students to register for classes at TCHS for next year through the student portal. Registration Website Please find all the information you will need to select classes on our one-stop-shop website. Skyward is open for registration so you can begin inputting your classes for the next school year. Counselors from The Colony High School will begin one-on-one meetings with students at school during 2nd period beginning Tuesday, February 15th to make sure everything is inputted. View the Electives fair that your student recently viewed in advisory HERE
Love and Logic
Interested in becoming a love and logic parent? Raise self-confident, motivated children who are ready for the real world. Loving, yet powerful tools for parenting children of all ages. Check out this FLIER for free upcoming sessions virtually on WebEx.Schoolwide Information
Scoliosis Screening:
On Wednesday February 23rd and Thursday February 24th, we will be performing mandatory scoliosis screenings for 7th grade girls and 8th grade boys. This state mandated screening requires students to remove their shirts, so please ensure your children wear appropriate undergarments. If you choose to not have your child participate here at school, you may send in a physical form from your child’s pediatrician or a religious exemption note. These screenings will take place during PE and/or athletics.
GT Information:
Our spring GT referral window will be open until March 4th. When determining whether you should refer your student for GT, please consider the following characteristics. If you would like to move forward with the referral process, please visit the district GT website.
Some common characteristics of GT students include the following:
- Advanced Language
- Analytical Thinking
- Meaning Motivation (curious as to the "why" and motivated to learn in order to make meaning of something)
- Perspective
- Sense of Humor
- Sensitivity
- Accelerated Learning
STAAR Algebra EOC Field Test:
All students who are currently enrolled in Algebra I will be participating in the STAAR Algebra EOC field test the morning of February 17th. Please ensure students bring their ipad and keyboard, fully charged.
HB4545 Tutoring:
HB 4545 Required Supplemental Instruction has started for students who did not meet standard on Spring 2021 STAAR or for students who did not take the 2021 STAAR and did not meet standard on the district alternative screener test. If your student was identified as needing supplemental instruction to relearn this content you have received emails and notifications from Mrs. Wood as well as your students assigned tutor. ELAR HB 4545 Tutorials will begin February 14th. If your student was assigned Math tutoring and has not completed their 30 hours of APEX or IXL they need to continue working and complete their assigned course by May 1st. If you have further questions please email Mrs. Wood at woodkm@lisd.net
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
February 4, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (2/7):
- 7th grade basketball tournament - See times and locations below.
TUESDAY (2/8):
- 7th grade basketball tournament - semifinals and finals (if we qualify)
THURSDAY (2/10): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
- 8th grade basketball tournament - See times and locations below.
FRIDAY (2/11):
- 8th grade basketball tournament - semifinals and finals (if we qualify)
7th Grade Boys Division 1
7th Grade Boys Division 2
7th Grade Girls Division 1
7th Grade Girls Division 2
8th Grade Boys Division 1
8th Grade Boys Division 2
Counselor Corner
8th Grade Registration:
Spring Registration is upon us! Our TCHS Registration Website is NOW OPEN until Feb 14th and students can enter into skyward. Please find all the information you will need to select classes on our one-stop-shop website. Skyward is open for registration so you can begin inputting your classes for the next school year. Counselors from The Colony High School will begin one-on-one meetings with students at school during 2nd period beginning Tuesday, February 15th to make sure everything is inputted. View the Electives fair that your student recently viewed in advisory HERE
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Let's Connect!
Take a few minutes to make sure you are connected with Griffin Middle School PTA! We would love to have you join one or more of our pages and keep in touch with the things we are doing in and for our school.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GriffinPTATC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morningsideptatc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Morningside_PTA
Schoolwide Information
GT Information:
Our spring GT referral window will be open until March 4th. When determining whether you should refer your student for GT, please consider the following characteristics. If you would like to move forward with the referral process, please visit the district GT website.
Some common characteristics of GT students include the following:
- Advanced Language
- Analytical Thinking
- Meaning Motivation (curious as to the "why" and motivated to learn in order to make meaning of something)
- Perspective
- Sense of Humor
- Sensitivity
- Accelerated Learning
HB4545 Tutorials:
HB 4545 Required Supplemental Instruction has started for students who did not meet standard on Spring 2021 Math STAAR or for students who did not take the 2021 STAAR and did not meet standard on the district alternative screener test. If your student was identified as needing supplemental instruction to relearn this content you have received emails and notifications from Mrs. Wood as well as your students assigned tutor. ELAR HB 4545 Tutorials will begin February 14th, and more information will be sent for those students the week of February 7th. If you have further questions please email Mrs. Wood at woodkm@lisd.net
8th Grade Parents:
Check out this FLYER from The Colony High School for the 2022 Sports Camp Schedule. Sports included are Baseball, Soccer, Basketball, Wrestling, Swimming, Volleyball, and FootballCollegiate Academy:
If your 8th grader applied for the TCHS Collegiate Academy, be on the lookout for information coming out February 8th! The Colony High School will be sending an email out to parents of students who applied and took the TSI with the results after school February 8, 2022. Please email collegiateacademy@lisd.net if there are any questions after results come out.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
January 21, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (1/24):
- 7th grade basketball - boys @ GMS; girls @ Arbor Creek - 5:30 pm
TUESDAY (1/25):
- Wind Ensemble/Symphonic Band Clinic - 4:10- 7:00 pm
THURSDAY (1/27): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
- 8th grade basketball - boys @ GMS; girls @ Briarhill - 5:30
FRIDAY (1/28):
- End of the 3 week period - Progress reports
Counselor Corner
REGISTRATION Update:
The registration window for current 6th and 7th grade students has been extended one week. Students/Parents will now be allowed to select courses on Skyward through January 28th at 4 pm. If there are any questions, please reach out to the counselors!
Incoming 7th Graders - Registration dates - 6th (new 7th) - 1/12-1/28
View video about course information - Click Here
How to input into skyward - Click Here
Incoming 8th Graders - 7th (new 8th) - 1/12-1/28
View video about course information - Click Here
How to input into skyward - Click Here
8th Grade Parents - Outgoing 8th graders to 9th grade
Spring Registration is upon us! Our TCHS Registration Website is NOW OPEN. Please find all the information you will need to select classes on our one-stop-shop website. Skyward is open for registration so you can begin inputting your classes for the next school year. Counselors from The Colony High School will begin one-on-one meetings with students at school during 2nd period beginning Tuesday, February 15th to make sure everything is inputted. View the Electives fair that your student recently viewed in advisory HERE
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Nothing Says SPIRIT like PIZZA!!
Please join us for Griffin PTA's next spirit night! This will be held on Wednesday, Jan 26th at Marcos Pizza ALL DAY. You can order in-person, by call in or online (see instructions on flyer) and be sure to mention Griffin Middle School. Thank you!
Schoolwide Information
COVID Update:
I want to remind you that the district changed our protocol for reporting campus-wide positive cases. Due to the current rise in cases, and the fact that most campuses are receiving confirmation of at least one positive case each day, LISD has asked that campuses stop sending the campus wide notifications. Instead, those who are curious can look at the LISD website and view how many new cases occurred on each campus each day. You can access this site HERE. In an effort to reduce the number of cases occurring at Griffin, we will be adding some precautions for next week. Starting on Monday, January 24, campus water fountains will be closed; however students will still be able to carry water bottles and refill them at our "filling stations" throughout the building. If a student does not have a water bottle, we will have cups on hand for them to use as well. Additionally, we strongly recommend having students wear masks, as this will greatly reduce the spread of all viruses, including flu and strep. Please also remind your student that desk shields are available in all classes, and some classes may start using them as a standard practice. We are hopeful that this recent rise in cases will quickly diminish again.
HB4545 Tutoring:
HB 4545 Required Supplemental Instruction has started for students who did not meet standard on Spring 2021 Math STAAR or for students who did not take the 2021 STAAR and did not meet standard on the district alternative screener test. If your student was identified as needing supplemental instruction to relearn this content you have received emails and notifications from Mrs. Wood as well as your students assigned tutor. ELAR HB 4545 Tutorials weill begin February 14th, more information will be sent for those students around February 7th. If you have further questions please email Mrs. Wood at woodkm@lisd.net
Attention ALL 8th Grade Parents:
Check out this FLYER from The Colony High School for the 2022 Sports Camp Schedule. Sports included are Baseball, Soccer, Basketball, Wrestling, Swimming, Volleyball, and Football.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
January 14, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (1/17): NO SCHOOL
- Observing MLK Day
TUESDAY (1/18):
WEDNESDAY (1/19): A Day (Periods 1, 3, 5, and 7)
- 7th grade basketball - girls @ GMS; boys @Briarhill - 5:30 pm
THURSDAY (1/20): B Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
- 8th grade basketball - boys @ GMS; girls @ Briarhill - 5:30
FRIDAY (1/21):
- 7th/8th band/choir/orchestra tour elementaries
- Premiere Band Concert @ 6:30 pm
SATURDAY (1/22): 8th grade GIRLS BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT @LHS
Counselor Corner
REGISTRATION:
Incoming 7th Graders - Registration dates - 6th (new 7th) - 1/12-1/19
View video about course information - Click Here
How to input into skyward - Click Here
Incoming 8th Graders - 7th (new 8th) - 1/12-1/19
View video about course information - Click Here
How to input into skyward - Click Here
Current 8th Grade Parents - Outgoing 8th graders to 9th grade
Spring Registration is upon us! The TCHS Registration Website is NOW OPEN. Please find all the information you will need to select classes on the one-stop-shop website. Skyward opened Wednesday, January 12, so that you can begin inputting your classes for the next school year. Counselors will begin one-on-one meetings with students during 2nd period Tuesday, January 18th and will conclude February 11th.
The Open House and Electives Fair originally scheduled at TCHS on January 20 has been cancelled. However, TCHS will be sending a video for GMS 8th graders to view in advisory next week to help them learn about the many elective opportunities available. Check with your students next week to make sure they saw the video, and if they have questions, be sure to notify us or TCHS.
Schoolwide Information
Next month we are excited to celebrate Black History Month. Last year offered many opportunities for students to get involved in the celebration and we are looking to continue that tradition this year. Our cultural awareness committee is meeting Wed. January 19th at 8:00am to finalize plans for this special celebration. We would like to formally invite students that want to participate or give input into the planning of our celebration. Parents, if you have suggestions, please contact Mr. Cleburn at cleburng@lisd.net. Once again, we thank you for your involvement in making Griffin the PRIDE of LISD.
Spring Open House:
Mark your calendars! We will hold our Spring Open House on Tuesday, March 8, from 6:00-7:30 pm. We will use the same format we did last year where families can come and go at your convenience during this time. There will be no formal meeting at the beginning, nor will there be any specific schedule you need to follow. We hope you will join us as we celebrate all our students have been doing this year!
HB4545 Tutoring:
HB 4545 Required Supplemental Instruction has started for students who did not meet standard on Spring 2021 Math STAAR or for students who did not take the 2021 STAAR and did not meet standard on the district alternative screener test. If your student was identified as needing supplemental instruction to relearn this content, you have received emails and notifications from Mrs. Wood as well as your students assigned tutor. If you have further questions please email Mrs. Wood at woodkm@lisd.net
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
January 7, 2022
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (1/10)
- 7th grade basketball - boys @ GMS; girls @ Downing - 5:30
TUESDAY (1/11)
WEDNESDAY (1/12) - A Day (Periods 1, 3, 5, and 7)
THURSDAY (1/13) - Day (Periods 2, 4, 6, and 8)
- 8th grade basketball - girls @ GMS; boys @ Downing - 5:30
FRIDAY (1/14)
**MONDAY 1/17 - NO SCHOOL**
Counselor Corner
Our next Whole Child Series event will be an in-person session at Bolin Professional Learning Center on 1/11/21 at 6pm. Parents and staff will have the opportunity to participate in fun make and take activities and review the multitudes of ways in which Social Emotional Learning is used throughout LISD.
Schoolwide Information
If your student was absent during semester exams in December, he/she will need to arrange a time with his/her teacher to take it. All exams should be taken no later than next Friday, January 14.
Student Schedules:
January is often a time when families move, and students withdraw and/or enroll. Due to the fluctuation of students during this time, there are occasions where we have to adjust our master schedule, causing other students' classes to change. Over the next week, you may be contacted by our counselors to inform you of a change in your child's schedule. Please know that we work very hard to make as few of these changes as possible. Any time we adjust our master schedule it is to reduce class sizes, or to improve student learning in some other way. We appreciate your understanding when this occurs.
Student schedules for 22-23:
Students will soon begin receiving information on choosing classes for next year. This process starts early in the Spring semester to allow to create our master schedule. Please be on the lookout for information related to schedules from our counselors in the next few weeks.
HB4545 Tutorials:
HB 4545 Required Supplemental Instruction starts next week for students who did not meet standard on Spring 2021 Math STAAR or for students who did not take the 2021 STAAR and did not meet standard on the district alternative screener test. If your student was identified as needing supplemental instruction to relearn this content you have received emails and notifications from Mrs. Wood as well as your students assigned tutor. If you have further questions please email Mrs. Wood at woodkm@lisd.net
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
December 17, 2021
What's Happening at GMS?
Monday 12/20 - January 5 - WINTER BREAK
MONDAY (1/3) - NO SCHOOL
TUESDAY (1/4) - NO SCHOOL
WEDNESDAY (1/5) - Teacher/Staff Work Day - No School for Students
THURSDAY (1/6) - 8 PERIOD DAY
FRIDAY (1/7) - 8 PERIOD DAY
Counselor Corner
Collegiate Academy:
Eligible collegiate students that applied for Collegiate Academy this school year will be receiving a message today from the district. Please be on the lookout for that message. If there are any questions, email CollegiateAcademy@lisd.net which will be monitored over the break.
Advisory Guidance lesson week of January 17th:
Students will be completing the Anti- bullying lesson the week of January 17th. To preview the material click here: MS Second Step Unit 2 Parent Overview Letter (1).pdf
Whole Child Series:
Our next Whole Child Series event will be an in-person session at Bolin Professional Learning Center on 1/11/21 at 6pm. Parents and staff will have the opportunity to participate in fun make and take activities and review the multitudes of ways in which Social Emotional Learning is used throughout LISD.
Schoolwide Information
HB4545 Tutoring:
Math HB4545 tutoring will start the week of January 10th - if your student is involved in this you should have received a welcome email from the tutor. Students have all been added to the math courses in Apex and may begin working through the course over the break if you chose, but staff members will be unavailable for help until school resumes. Students can access Apex by using their LISD credentials to log into the LISD Learning Hub and clicking on the Apex Learning Icon:
Making Up Exams:
If your student was not in attendance Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday this week and, therefore, missed any semester exam, he/she will need to check with his/her teacher upon returning to school in January for a make up time. Grades will remain as "Incomplete" until the exam is taken and scored.
8 Period Schedule:
Because students don't return until Thursday, January 6, we be running an "8 period" day both Thursday and Friday the first week. Our usual modified block schedule will return starting Monday, January 10.
Bus Riders behavior:
Parents of bus riders, over the past few weeks we have had multiple disciplinary issues arise on the buses either coming to school or going home in the afternoon. Please speak with your bus rider regarding appropriate bus behavior and interactions with other students. Students who are written up for poor behavior on the bus 3 or more times may be suspended from riding the bus. I understand that the inability to access the bus may cause a hardship to parents, so I am asking for your help in resolving these issues.
Rose Bowl Participant:
We have a CELEBRITY among us! Our very own Ms. McClain has been selected (out of thousands of band directors across the country) to march in the Rose Parade on New Year's Day! She will be marching and playing (piccolo I believe?) in the parade! Way to represent GMS, Ms. McClain!
Schoolwide Fundraiser:
Our school wide fundraiser is quickly coming to a close. We appreciate all your support in our effort to provide a memorable school experience for your students. We are extending our fundraiser through the weekend. Please ask your student about the QR code needed to raise money. If you need more flyers please email me at cleburng@lisd.net.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
December 10, 2021
Holiday Dress Up Days!
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY (12/13)
- All 8th grade students report to the gym at 8:40 for a grade level picture.
TUESDAY (12/14)
- All 7th grade students report to the gym at 8:40 for a grade level picture.
- Orchestra TCHS Cluster Concert @ TCHS - 7:00 pm
- All 6th grade students report to the gym at 8:40 for a grade level picture.
- Exams 1, 3, and 7
THURSDAY (12/16) - B Day (testing periods are 10 minutes longer)
- Exams 2, 4, and 8
FRIDAY (12/17) - Early Release @ 1:00pm
- Exams 5,6
Staggered dismissal
Schoolwide Information
Griffin Campus Project:
Next week we will be creating a GMS picture of all 3 grade levels "combined". In order to do this, we will need to take a picture of all students by grade level. If at all possible, please make sure your student is at school by 8:35, so he/she can come to the gym about 8:40 to be a part of the picture. 8th graders to come to the gym on Monday, . 7th graders on Tuesday, and 6th graders on Wednesday. Please help remind your student on the day of his/her grade level picture, so we can all be a part of this history making experience.
Grades:
With just one week left in the second 9 weeks grading period, it is SO important to make sure your student is caught up with all work. In addition to the tutorial times each teacher has, students are also encouraged to attend tutoring during homeroom every morning from 8:15-8:45. Students can also email teachers if they are missing work or need to make up assignments.
We will take semester exams next week as we finish up our first semester. Please see the schedule for Semester Exams coming up next week in the attachment below. The schedule for virtual students is slightly different than in person, so be sure you are taking note of the correct schedule.
Exams for students who are absent for any reason:
If your child will be absent for any day of semester exams, he/she will be provided the opportunity to take them once we return January 6, 2022.
HB4545 Tutoring:
If your student is participating in the HB4545 tutoring program, all tutoring will start the first full week of January (1/10). However, you should receive an email next week from your student's tutor that will state the days/times of tutoring as well as the link to access APEX, the online program we are using for our tutorials. Your student is welcome to access the material in APEX and begin working through the material during the break as well.
DC/NY trip 2023:
If you would like to send your student on a fun, educational adventure, you can email Ms. Hartman at hartmana@lisd.net for information. She has been taking students on these amazing trips for several years now, and will have lots of information for you!
Yearbook order information:
Looking for an awesome gift for your Griffin student during this holiday season? Why not purchase them a GMS yearbook?! Check out the flyer below on how you can order yours today!
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
December 3, 2021
What's Happening at GMS?
- 7th Grade Basketball: Boys @ GMS; Girls @ Lamar MS - 5:30
Tuesday, 12/7:
- Cross country Finals @ 4:30
Wednesday, 12/8: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
Thursday, 12/9: B Day (periods 2, 4, 6, 8)
- 8th Grade Basketball: Boys @ Lamar MS; Girls @ GMS - 5:30
Friday, 12/10:
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Let's Connect!
Take a few minutes to make sure you are connected with Griffin Middle School PTA! We would love to have you join one or more of our pages and keep in touch with the things we are doing in and for our school.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GriffinPTATC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morningsideptatc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Morningside_PTA
Counselor Corner
Advisory Guidance lesson week of Nov 29th: Students will be learning about breaking down your larger goals into smaller, short term goals.
Please feel free to preview the objectives of this lesson.
Weekly Family Communications Link for 6th-8th Grade, Unit 1 Lesson 5
The Collegiate Academy at The Colony High School - An opportunity for your child to earn an associate’s degree or up to 60 hours of dual credit during their high school career. Regardless of the campus your child is zoned to attend, they are eligible to apply for acceptance into the academy. Learn more at LISD.net/Academy.
Join us at one of our upcoming Parent Information Sessions at the locations below, where we will provide information and answer questions about special programs in Lewisville ISD. Questions? Please email Collegiate Academy staff directly at Collegiateacademy@lisd.net
Tuesday, Nov. 30 from 6 to 7 p.m. at TECC-West
Thursday, Dec. 2 from 6 to 7 p.m. at The Colony High School
Monday, Dec. 6 from 6 to 7 p.m. at TECC-East
Schoolwide Information
If you were notified that your student has been selected to receive the 30 hours of tutoring in content specific curriculum he/she may need, we will be starting MATH tutorials the first FULL week of school in January. There will be two morning and two afternoon tutorials each week for 5 weeks (for math). The rest of the 30 hours can be done independently at home. Students needing the math tutorials will receive information prior to the end of the semester.
Semster Exams: The district does not permit us to give semester exams early. If you are planning on having your student(s) miss the last few days of school in December, they will have to make up exams before or after school once we return in January. Be sure you contact the attendance office to complete a prior written notice absence form.
Semester Exam Schedule:
Semester exams will be taken December 15, 16, and 17. All testing periods will be 95 minutes in length. If a student needs longer than this to complete a test, the teacher will arrange a time.
- Wednesday: Periods 1, 3, and 7 will test.
- Thursday: Periods 2, 4, and 8 will test.
- Friday: Periods 5 and 6 will test. This is also an early release day, so we will dismiss at 1:00.
End of Semester Parties:
I know many elementary schools celebrate the end of the semester with parties and/or treats. Unfortunately, with semester exams, and the number of students we have on the campus, we are not able to do that. In fact, we are not allowed to distribute treats to students unless we have applied for a waiver from the state to do so. Please do not send students with treats for their classmates as the break draws near. We hate to be the "bearer of bad news" to students and have to tell them to leave the treats in the office until the end of the day.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
November 19, 2021
What's Happening at GMS?
MONDAY 11/22-FRIDAY 11/26 - THANKSGIVING BREAK - NO SCHOOL
- 7th Grade Basketball: Boys @ GMS; Girls @ Forestwood MS - 5:30
Tuesday, 11/30:
- Fall Choir Concert @ GMS - 7:00 pm
Wednesday, 12/1: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
- Cross country Meet @ 4:30
Thursday, 12/2: B Day (periods 2, 4, 6, 8)
- 8th Grade Basketball: Boys @ Forestwood MS; Girls @ GMS - 5:30
Friday, 12/3
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Let's Connect!
During the Fall break, when you are scrolling through your Social Media in your turkey comma, make sure you are connected with Griffin Middle School PTA! We would love to have you join one or more of our pages and keep in touch with the things we are doing in and for our school.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GriffinPTATC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morningsideptatc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Morningside_PTA
Save the Date's
We have lots of exciting things coming up, so mark your calendar and stay tuned for more information!
Dec 3rd - Snack Cart
Dec 8th - Spirit Night at Teriyaki Madness
Dec 14th - Teacher Appreciation event
Dec 17th - Dad's and Dude's Club
Let's talk pie!
Ask your child about today's event where Mrs. Garrison got a pie to the face! Thank you again to everyone that has joined PTA so far and is supporting our mission to help our students, staff and school. A HUGE Thank You to Mrs. Garrison for being an amazing sport, supporting PTA and having fun with this event.
PIE THE PRINCIPAL
PTA ROCKTOBERFEST
THANKS TO THOSE WHO JOINED!
Counselor Corner
Advisory Guidance lesson week of Nov 29th: Students will be learning about breaking down your larger goals into smaller, short term goals.
Please feel free to preview the objectives of this lesson.
Weekly Family Communications Link for 6th-8th Grade, Unit 1 Lesson 5
The Collegiate Academy at The Colony High School - An opportunity for your child to earn an associate’s degree or up to 60 hours of dual credit during their high school career. Regardless of the campus your child is zoned to attend, they are eligible to apply for acceptance into the academy. Learn more at LISD.net/Academy.
Join us at one of our upcoming Parent Information Sessions at the locations below, where we will provide information and answer questions about special programs in Lewisville ISD. Questions? Please email Collegiate Academy staff directly at Collegiateacademy@lisd.net
Tuesday, Nov. 30 from 6 to 7 p.m. at TECC-West
Thursday, Dec. 2 from 6 to 7 p.m. at The Colony High School
Monday, Dec. 6 from 6 to 7 p.m. at TECC-East
Schoolwide Information
If you were notified that your student has been selected to receive the 30 hours of tutoring in content specific curriculum he/she may need, we will be sending out the schedules the week we return from Thanksgiving. Please be on the lookout for the days/times of these tutorials.
Wrapping up the Semester:
Once we return from Thanksgiving break, students will have just 3 weeks of school in the first semester, and one of these weeks will be Semester exams. Most classes will take a written semester exam; some elective classes have projects or other activities in place of the exam. Please know that the district does not permit us to give semester exams early. If you are planning on having your student(s) miss the last few days of school in December, they will have to make up exams before or after school once we return in January.
Semester Exam Schedule:
Semester exams will be taken December 15, 16, and 17.
- Wednesday: Periods 1, 3, and 7 will test.
- Thursday: Periods 2, 4, and 8 will test.
- Friday: Periods 5 and 6 will test. This is also an early release day, so we will dismiss at 1:00.
End of Semester Parties:
I know many elementary schools celebrate the end of the semester with parties and/or treats. Unfortunately, with semester exams, and the number of students we have on the campus, we are not able to do that. In fact, we are not allowed to distribute treats to students unless we have applied for a waiver from the state to do so. Please do not send students with treats for their classmates as the break draws near. We hate to be the "bearer of bad news" to students and have to tell them to leave the treats in the office until the end of the day.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<,
November12, 2021
What's Happening at GMS?
- 7th Grade Basketball: Girls @ GMS; Boys @ McKamy - 5:30
Tuesday, 11/16:
Wednesday, 11/17: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
- Orchestra Ice Cream Social @ 4:15
- Cross country Meet @ 4:30
Thursday, 11/18: B Day (periods 2, 4, 6, 8)
- 8th Grade Basketball: Girls @ McKamy; Boys @ GMS - 5:30
Friday, 11/19:
- Dad's and Dude's Club Greet Students/Staff @ 8:00 am
- Faculty/Student Volleyball game - $2 Entry to watch volleyball team vs. Staff
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Are you a Dad or a male role model for a GMS Student? Do you like to give high fives, fist bumps, and air hugs? Or are you more of a quiet head nod and "hello" kind of guy? Whatever your style, we need you in the GMS Dad's and Dude's Club! Please join us on certain Fridays, from 8am to 8:55am (or any time in between) to welcome our students and staff into the building.
If you would like to be a part of the next Friday morning Greet time, sign up at the Griffin PTA Website https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/home
Did Someone Say "PIE"?
Thanks to all of you who joined PTA during the month of October! Because GMS won the "Rocktoberfest" competition, Ms. Garrison will be receiving a Pie in the face on Friday, November 19, during the staff/student volleyball game! The pie is complements of MeLisa's Pies! In addition to this "sweet" face plant for Ms. Garrison, GMS PTA will also receive $300 from Elate Orthodontics to support our amazing students and faculty!
Special Thanks:
The GMS PTA thanks all of you who were able to join us for a delicious meal from Carrabba's last Saturday night in the GMS kitchen. It was a wonderful time to fellowship with the GMS community over a delicious meal! Thanks to your support, we had over 100 meals served!
Spirit Night for November:
Join us for our November Spirit Night on Wednesday, the 17th, at Blaze Pizza. Grab a pie to go and make dinner clean up a snap!
Counselor Corner
Guidance Lessons:
Suicide Prevention Guidance lessons for all grade levels will be advisory next week (Nov 17th):
The following is a parent preview and opt-out form. Please visit this link to get information about the lessons.
21-22 MS SPC Parent Overview/Opt Out Form Eng./Span.
If wanting to opt-out, please return forms to
Katherine Dixon - dixonk@lisd.net or
Katie Cole - colek@lisd.net
TCHS Collegiate Academy:
The Colony High School Collegiate Academy application window for incoming 9th graders will begin after Thanksgiving break. More info coming soon!
Please check out their website and video for info.
Schoolwide Information
Purchase your Yearbook Today:
Don't get left without a way to remember this unforgettable year! Be sure to purchase yours now! You can do so at: https://www.balfour.com/texas/the-colony/griffin-middle-school
Campus Fundraiser:
We are kicking off our first big fundraiser in two years, and we need your support. The purpose for school fundraisers is to raise money that we can use to enhance student experiences. We know this is a busy time of year, so we made the fundraiser as simple and efficient as possible. It is just simple donations that can be made online or with cash/check either one. Next Tuesday, November 16, your student will receive a flyer explaining the different options for donating, as well as prizes your student can earn. The flyer will contain a QR code that takes donors to a website to donate to our school. We have a scaled prize ladder with prizes that include Griffin Apparel, Apple Air Pods, NIKE backpacks, and more. Please email cleburng@lisd.net if you have any questions about the fundraiser or need new flyers. We will also be sending an email that the students can send out to donors as well.
Veteran's Day Celebration:
Thanks for those who sent in photos for veteran’s Day. Here is the link to the video we shared.
MLK Essay, Art, and Photography Contest:
Each year students are invited to participate in the MLK Art, Essay, and Photography competition that is awarded and showcased at the Dr. King Celebration on Monday, January 17, 2022. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn more about Dr. King’s Legacy and possibly win some prize money. We would love to see some of our amazingly talented Griffin students participate this year!
The theme is World Divided: Tomorrow United. All of the requirements and parameters are explained in the attached flyers. The deadline for entry is Thursday, December 9, 2021. All entries must be turned in to either one of your teachers or the front office by this day.
TC Community Event:
The Colony Chamber Ambassadors are hosting Pictures with Santa for a Cause on Saturday, Nov. 13 at the City Hall Annex (6804 Main Street) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. To benefit non-profit organizations in the community, suggested donations to bring are: socks, gloves, scarves, unwrapped toys, gift cards, peanut butter, cereal and individually wrapped snacks. (See flyer below)
Let's Celebrate our Staff:
Does your student come home talking about a particular teacher whose class they really enjoy? Or, is there a teacher or staff member you would like to recognize or praise? Of course there is! PTA wants to hear from you on all the amazing things our teachers, staff, custodians, and child nutritionist are doing. To let us know, head over to the Griffin MS PTA website and fill out a Shout Out form. https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/shout-outs
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
November 5, 2021
What's Happening at GMS?
- 7th Grade Basketball: Girls @ GMS; Boys @ Durham - 5:30
Tuesday, 11/9:
Wednesday, 11/10: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
- 7th Grade Field Trip to LLELA
- Cross country Meet @ 4:30
Thursday, 11/11: B Day (periods 2, 4, 6, 8)
- 7th Grade Field Trip to LLELA
- 8th Grade Basketball: Girls @ Durham; Boys @ GMS - 5:30
Friday, 11/12:
- School Picture Re-takes
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Dinner Theatre at GMS:
Looking for a fun event for the family or even Date Night idea? Join us TOMORROW NIGHT November 6th at 6:30pm for dinner before the show. Carrabba's Italian Grill will be in house cooking a fresh meal to order. You may eat in the cafeteria or choose your meal to-go. The dinner menu consists of Carrabba's Chicken Marsala or Grilled Chicken with a choice of red penne pasta or white penne pasta with Caesar salad and bread. To reserve your dinner click here: https://griffin-middle-school-pta.square.site/ Dinner will also be available for purchase at the door.
LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE!
THANK YOU to all the families that joined the Griffin Middle School PTA so far for the 2021-2022 school year. We appreciate you being a member of PTA whether you joined us in August or just joined us last week. We value your commitment to support our students, staff and the PTA Mission. Because of your support we beat Lakeview Middle School in our contest and will be putting a pie in Mrs. Garrison's face. Please stay tuned for information on when this will happen!
Griffin: 19%
Lakeview: 13%
Thank you to Me'Lisa's Pies for the pie donations and to Elate Orthodontics for the $300 donation to the winning school!
SPIRIT NIGHT's:
THANK YOU to our families that joined us for our Chick Fil A Spirit night at the end of October. With your help we were able to raise $43 for the PTA and put that towards planned events/programs for our students and staff. Or next Spirit Night event will be on November 17th at Blaze Pizza. Save the date!
Counselor Corner
Progress Reports:
Our 3 week progress reports were uploaded today, so you are able to see your student's grades for the first 3 weeks of the 2nd Quarter. If your child is failing any classes, please remind them to attend before or after school tutoring with their teachers. Teachers have posted tutoring times on the Griffin Website, and if these times are not available to you, they can work to arrange something else.
180 Degrees Program:
The 180 degrees abstinence program has been canceled this week by the company who does the presentation and is being rescheduled for early January when we return from Christmas break. Stay tuned for updates on the dates. All permission slips already turned in will be honored for this new date. If you still have not returned your permission slip, please do so as soon as possible.
Suicide Prevention Guidance lessons coming:
All grade levels will begin district suicide prevention lessons next week and in the Spring. The following is a parent preview and opt-out form. Please visit this link to get information about the lessons.
21-22 MS SPC Parent Overview/Opt Out Form Eng./Span.
If wanting to opt-out, please return forms to
Katherine Dixon - dixonk@lisd.net or
Katie Cole - colek@lisd.net
Schoolwide Information
Friday PRIDE Club:
Today we held our first Friday PRIDE Club during lunches. Every Friday, our current students of the month as well as students who have not gotten any discipline referrals OR tardies were able to eat lunch and enjoy some fun activities including gaming systems, music, and card games. Thanks to PTA, we are able to have this monitored by our awesome parents! If there are any old board games that you would like to donate, please contact Katherine Dixon at dixonk@lisd.net or our PTA president. Be on the lookout for more news from PTA if you are wanting to help out with coverage! (Pictures below)
Veterans Honored:
We are honoring veterans on Nov 11th at Griffin Middle School, and our video production team is working on this year’s video. If you have any pictures of veterans in your family and would like them to be shown during 1st period, please email them to Mrs. Adams at adamsm@lisd.net by Monday evening (November 8), so we may honor them while teaching our students the importance of individuals who have served our country.
MLK Essay, Art, and Photography Contest:
Each year students are invited to participate in the MLK Art, Essay, and Photography competition that is awarded and showcased at the Dr. King Celebration on Monday, January 17, 2022. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn more about Dr. King’s Legacy and possibly win some prize money. We would love to see some of our amazingly talented Griffin students participate this year!
The theme is World Divided: Tomorrow United. All of the requirements and parameters are explained in the attached flyers. The deadline for entry is Thursday, December 9, 2021. All entries must be turned in to either one of your teachers or the front office by this day.
Student Absences:
Parents, if your child will be missing class for a period of time for reasons other than medical, please have the student pick up a planned, pre-approved absence request form in the attendance office. The form must be filled out and returned to the attendance office at least 1 week in advance to be approved by the principal. Absences that are not pre-approved will be unexcused and will result in a zero for any assignments missed.
After School Tutoring with Bus:
As a reminder, we are now offering a late bus at 5:00 PM every Wednesday for ANY student who stays for tutorials. This will allow additional opportunities for students who need tutoring but are limited due to riding the bus. If you have a student needing tutoring, reach out to his/her teachers to schedule tutoring at this time, or other mornings/afternoons for those not riding the bus.
Staff Tutoring Schedule:
If you would like to know when your student's teacher holds tutorials, you can check out those schedules at the link below:
Let's Celebrate our Staff:
Does your student come home talking about a particular teacher whose class they really enjoy? Or, is there a teacher or staff member you would like to recognize or praise? Of course there is! PTA wants to hear from you on all the amazing things our teachers, staff, custodians, and child nutritionist are doing. To let us know, head over to the Griffin MS PTA website and fill out a Shout Out form. https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/shout-outs
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
October 29, 2021
GMS Moana Scramble
GMS PTA - Together We Rise
GMS Family Night at the Movies
What's Happening at GMS?
- Basketball scrimmages
Tuesday, 11/2:
- Dia de los Muertos Celebration Art Hallway from 6:00 to 7:30 pm
- Basketball scrimmages
Wednesday, 11/3:
- Cross country Meet @ 4:30
- Basketball scrimmages
Thursday, 11/4:
- Basketball scrimmages
Friday, 11/5:
- GMS Theatre production of Moana, Jr. @ GMS - 6:30 PM
- TCHS football v. Reedy @ Frisco Memorial - 7:00 pm
Saturday, 11/6:
- GMS Theatre production of Moana, Jr. @ GMS - 2:00 PM
- Carrabba's Dinner (Dine in or Take out) @ GMS cafe - 6:30 PM
- GMS Theatre production of Moana, Jr. @ GMS - 8:00 PM
GMS Finalized Documentation
If you would are unable to view these documents, and/or you would like a hard copy of them, please notify our office staff.
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Dinner Theatre at GMS: Looking for a fun event for the family or even Date Night idea? Join us on Saturday, November 6th for dinner before the show. Carrabba's Italian Grill will be in house cooking a fresh meal to order. You may eat in the cafeteria or choose your meal to-go. The dinner menu consists of Carrabba's Chicken Marsala or Grilled Chicken with a choice of red penne pasta or white penne pasta with Caesar salad and bread. To reserve your dinner click here: https://griffin-middle-school-pta.square.site/
LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE!
There are only 3 more days left of TC ROCKTOBER! Our (friendly!) competition between the two most awesome middle schools in The Colony, Griffin and Lakeview, will be ending on Sunday October 31st. We would love a last minute push to make sure we keep our lead over Lakeview and win the competition. We are on our way to a pie in our principal's face!!
Griffin: 18%
Lakeview: 13%
We need YOUR help to make this gap bigger so please join us! To join Griffin's PTA and help us get a pie in the face for Mrs. Garrison please join our PTA here: https://griffin-middle-school-pta.square.site/
THANK YOU to our families that joined us for our Panda Express Spirit day in early October. With your help we were able to raise $200 for the PTA and put that towards planned events/programs for our students and staff.
Counselor's Corner
180 Degrees Program:
The 180 degrees abstinence program is coming to Griffin MS through 6th, 7th and 8th grade Science classes in November. The parent permission form was sent home with students on Friday, Oct. 22 and through Skylert message to all families October 21st. This is a mandatory opt-in or opt-out form which must be returned. Please return the permission slip for the 180 degrees program signed and brought back by Nov. 2nd. For information about this presentation, please go to https://180degreestx.com/
LISD Suicide Prevention Lessons:
All grade levels will begin viewing the LISD suicide prevention lessons in November and then we will have a few more in the Spring. The following is a parent preview and opt-out form. We encourage you to view the material and complete the opt out form ONLY IF you do not want you child to participate in these lessons. Please visit this link to get information about the lessons.
21-22 MS SPC Parent Overview/Opt Out Form Eng./Span.
If wanting to opt-out, please return forms to
Katherine Dixon - dixonk@lisd.net or
Katie Cole - colek@lisd.net
Whole Child Presentation:
Here is a FLYER for the upcoming Whole Child virtual presentation ~ Drugs, Alcohol & Social Media ~ November 2nd 6-8pm via WebEx - Sign up on link on flyer.
Schoolwide Information
Dia de los Muertas Celebration:
Join us the evening of November 2, from 6:00 - 7:30 PM, for our 6th annual Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Community Night! We will have arts and crafts, art work displayed, and Coco playing on the big screen! We hope you and your students can join us!
Moana, Jr.:
Be sure to purchase your ticket to come see Moana, Jr. next Friday or Saturday. Shows are Friday at 6:30, Saturday at 2:00 and 8:00 pm. We also have a delicious dinner from Carrabba's that you can purchase Saturday at 6:30 before the 8:00 pm show.
Before and After School Pick Up Lines:
Overall, our revised pick up lines after school are a success. We are able to get students picked up and lines are gone within 10 minutes of dismissal. However, we have noticed some parents are still stopping in the middle lane to drop off students in the morning and/or pick up students in the afternoon. Please be sure you pull completely over to the right line, next to the curb before stopping to allow your student into the car. I realize this may take an extra minute or two, but the safety of our students is worth that extra time! Also, please do not drop students off in the "parking lot" area of our drop off route. There is plenty of space to drop students at the curb in the right lane. This is also a safety issue. We want to provide the safest possible options for students.
Student Absences:
Parents, if your child will be missing class for a period of time for reasons other than medical, please have the student pick up a planned, pre-approved absence request form in the attendance office. The form must be filled out and returned to the attendance office at least 1 week in advance to be approved by the principal. Absences that are not pre-approved will be unexcused and will result in a zero for any assignments missed.
After School Tutoring with Bus:
As a reminder, we are now offering a late bus at 5:00 PM every Wednesday for ANY student who stays for tutorials. This will allow additional opportunities for students who need tutoring but are limited due to riding the bus. If you have a student needing tutoring, reach out to his/her teachers to schedule tutoring at this time, or other mornings/afternoons for those not riding the bus.
Staff Tutoring Schedule:
If you would like to know when your student's teacher holds tutorials, you can check out those schedules at the link below:
Let's Celebrate our Staff:
Does your student come home talking about a particular teacher whose class they really enjoy? Or, is there a teacher or staff member you would like to recognize or praise? Of course there is! PTA wants to hear from you on all the amazing things our teachers, staff, custodians, and child nutritionist are doing. To let us know, head over to the Griffin MS PTA website and fill out a Shout Out form. https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/shout-outs
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
October 22, 2021
What's Happening at GMS?
- 7th grade Football championship games @ TCHS - 5:30
- 7th grade Volleyball District Volleyball Tournament @ Briarhill MS- 4:30
Tuesday, 10/26: Red Ribbon Dress - wear PJ's
- 8th grade Football championship games @TCHS - 6:30
Wednesday, 10/27: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7) - RRD - wear a sports jersey
- 8th grade Football vs. Arbor Creek MS @ Hebron HS - 5:30
- 8th grade Volleyball district tournament @ Forestwood MS - 7:30
Friday, 10/29: RRD - Costume Dress (no face paint or masks; no play weapons)
- TCHS football v. Lonestar @ TCHS - 7:00 pm (Senior Night)
**Save the Date: November 5 & 6 is the GMS Theatre production of Moana!
** Dinner from Carraba's (eat in or take out) on November 6 - prior to the show!
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE!
TC ROCKTOBER is still underway and only 9 days until the end of our contest! It's the end of the 3rd week of our (friendly!) competition between the two most awesome middle schools in The Colony, Griffin and Lakeview, and we are on our way to a pie in our principal's face!!
Griffin: 18%
Lakeview: 12%
We need YOUR help to make this gap bigger so please join us! To join Griffin's PTA and help us get a pie in the face for Mrs. Garrison please join our PTA here: https://griffin-middle-school-pta.square.site/
Dinner Theatre at GMS: Looking for a fun event for the family? Join us on Saturday, November 6th for dinner and a show. Carrabba's Italian Grill will be in house cooking a fresh meal to order. You may eat in the cafeteria or choose your meal to-go. We would also love to have you join us for the show Moana Jr. immediately following, tickets to show sold separately. To get your dinner and show tickets click here: https://griffin-middle-school-pta.square.site/
Save the date for out Next Spirit Night: Our next Griffin Spirit Night will be at Chick fil a (Spring Creek) on Wednesday, October 27th from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. Join us for dinner through the drive thru and don't forget to mention Griffin Middle School when ordering!
Good days start with a bagel and you! THANK YOU to all our amazing Griffin parents who were able to signup and donate to the Teacher Appreciation breakfast this week. We appreciate your partnership in helping make our teachers fell the love.
Counselor's Corner
180 Degrees Program:
The 180 degrees abstinence program is coming to Griffin MS through 6th, 7th and 8th grade Science classes in November. The parent permission form was sent home with students on Friday, Oct. 22 and through Skylert message to all families October 21st. This is a mandatory opt-in or opt-out form which must be returned. Please return the permission slip for the 180 degrees program signed and brought back by Nov. 2nd. For information about this presentation, please go to https://180degreestx.com/
Second Step Program:
Attached is the Parent preview and content link for the for Second Step program which will cover whole child development including conflict resolution, bullying, growth mindset and other social emotional learning. If you have questions regarding this program after reviewing the attached links, please reach out to your student’s school counselor.
Katie Cole 7th grade all students, and 6th grade last name A - I
Katherine Dixon 8th grade students, and 6th grade last name J - Z
Schoolwide Information
Red Ribbon Week:
Next week we will celebrate Red Ribbon Week by enjoying some fun dress up days! Please help your students make good decisions on their dress so they can enjoy the fun in appropriate attire! We will also have a CANNED SOUP DRIVE for Lovepacs all next week. Please send a cans of soup to school with your student to support our food drive and help the Lovepacs program, as this program assists families in our own community! We will collect cans Monday through Friday of next week!
From the GMS Library:
Don't forget, our virtual book fair closes in one week! All the things you need to know:
- Website: https://efairs.follettbookfairs.com/guest/home?classCode=M5E7D
- Dates: October 15th-October 29th
- Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KymEW6URhEsfpnmBIvjylNpln7qdVAL-/view?usp=sharing
- Code: M5E7D (you shouldn't need to enter it, but if it asks--you have it!)
- Library Wishlist: https://efairs.follettbookfairs.com/view/JED6618 If you want to buy a book to donate to the library **If you choose to do this, please put LIBRARY DONATION as the student's name**
All profits from the fair will go to replacing books lost during COVID shutdowns.
Before and After School Pick Up Lines:
Overall, our revised pick up lines after school are a success. We are able to get students picked up and lines are gone within 10 minutes of dismissal. However, we have noticed some parents are still stopping in the middle lane to drop off students in the morning and/or pick up students in the afternoon. Please be sure you pull completely over to the right line, next to the curb before stopping to allow your student into the car. I realize this may take an extra minute or two, but the safety of our students is worth that extra time! Also, please do not drop students off in the "parking lot" area of our drop off route. There is plenty of space to drop students at the curb in the right lane. This is also a safety issue. We want to provide the safest possible options for students.
Student Absences:
Parents, if your child will be missing class for a period of time for reasons other than medical, please have the student pick up a planned, pre-approved absence request form in the attendance office. The form must be filled out and returned to the attendance office at least 1 week in advance to be approved by the principal. Absences that are not pre-approved will be unexcused and will result in a zero for any assignments missed.
After School Tutoring with Bus:
We will be adding a late bus at 5:00 PM every Wednesday, starting on October 27. This will allow additional opportunities for students who need tutoring but are limited due to riding the bus. If you have a student needing tutoring, reach out to his/her teachers to schedule tutoring at this time, or other mornings/afternoons for those not riding the bus.
Dia de los Muertas Celebration:
Join us the evening of November 2, from 6:00 - 7:30 PM, for our 6th annual Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Community Night! We will have arts and crafts, art work displayed, and Coco playing on the big screen! We hope you and your students can join us!
Staff Tutoring Schedule:
If you would like to know when your student's teacher holds tutorials, you can check out those schedules at the link below:
Let's Celebrate our Staff:
Does your student come home talking about a particular teacher whose class they really enjoy? Or, is there a teacher or staff member you would like to recognize or praise? Of course there is! PTA wants to hear from you on all the amazing things our teachers, staff, custodians, and child nutritionist are doing. To let us know, head over to the Griffin MS PTA website and fill out a Shout Out form. https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/shout-outs
2021 STAAR Student Reports:
Students who took STAAR in the district last year should have received a STAAR report card from their ELAR teacher today. They should be bringing these home to share with you.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
October 15, 2021
What's Happening at GMS?
- 7th grade Volleyball vs. Arbor Creek MS @ Griffin - 5:30
- 7th grade Football vs. Killian MS @ Griffin - 5:30
Tuesday, 10/19:
- 8th grade Football vs. Killian MS @ Griffin - 5:30
- Band at Football game @ Griffin - 5:00
Wednesday, 10/20: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
- 8th grade students take PSAT
- PTA Board Meeting @ 6:30
- 8th grade Volleyball vs. Arbor Creek @ Arbor Creek MS - 5:30
- TCHS football v. Frisco Memorial @ Frisco - 7:00 pm
Friday, 10/22:
- GMS FAMILY NIGHT - Pumpkin painting and Movie under the Stars (Starts at 6:00 PM)
** Mark your calendars for the 6th Annual Dia de los Muertos Community Night on Nov. 2 (6:00-7:30). This will be a Come and Go Art Exhibit (artwork inspired by sugar skulls and skeletal drawings)
Activities will include-
Paper Flower “make and take”, Face Painting, Memory Wall,
Sugar Skull Ornament painting, Coco (the movie) will be playing!
SAVE THE DATE
Canned Soup Drive
ROCTOBER Continues
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE!
TC ROCKTOBER is now underway! It's the end of the 2nd week of our (friendly!) competition between the two most awesome middle schools in The Colony, Griffin and Lakeview, and we are on our way to a pie in our principal's face!!
Griffin: 17%
Lakeview: 12%
We need YOUR help to make this gap bigger so please join us! To join Griffin's PTA and help us get a pie in the face for Mrs. Garrison please join our PTA here:
https://griffin-middle-school-pta.square.site/
Good days start with a bagel and you!
Our WONDERFUL teachers and staff deserve a special treat after the 1st 9 weeks and we would love your help! Please help the PTA fill the teacher’s lounge with a yummy morning snack of bagels, juice and fruit! Sign up using this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30e094ba9a62da4f94-good
All items are due to the school on Thursday, October 21st by 4:00 p.m., so we can set up and have it ready for the teachers first thing in the morning on the 22nd. All items can be dropped at the front office and if you are bringing an item that needs refrigeration, please indicate that when you drop off so we can ensure they don’t spoil.
PTA Bylaws and Standing Rules: The M.T. Griffin Middle School PTA has updated their Bylaws and Standing Rules in accordance with the TX PTA rules. These documents have been posted for review in the Griffin Middle School office since Friday, September 17th 2021 and will remain there until October 19th, 2021. Anyone wishing to review the proposed Bylaws and Standing Rules of this organization may request to view these during this time. We will have a PTA Meeting for the General Population on October 20, 2021 from 6:30pm to 6:45pm in the GMS Lion's Den to vote in these new rules. If you are a current PTA member you are welcome to join us at this meeting. If you have any questions regarding the Bylaws or Standing Rules of this organization please reach out to your PTA President Rachel Doig at griffinpta@yahoo.com.
Friday, October 22 is GMS Family Movie Night:
Our first Family Night of the year is almost here! We will have pumpkins to paint starting at 6:00 PM on Friday, October 22, along with a fun "Moana Scramble" to support our upcoming show, Moana Jr., followed by an outdoor viewing of the Halloween classic, Halloweentown. So bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and pumpkin spice latte for a fun evening here at Griffin! See the flyer below for more information.
Counselor's Corner
1st Nine Weeks Report Cards:
Student report cards are now posted in Skyward for the 1st Nine Week reporting period. If you would like a paper copy of the report card, please contact your child's counselor, and we will have one printed and send home with your student.
Second Step Program:
Attached is the Parent preview and content link for the for Second Step program which will cover whole child development including conflict resolution, bullying, growth mindset and other social emotional learning. If you have questions regarding this program after reviewing the attached links, please reach out to your student’s school counselor.
Katie Cole 7th grade all students, and 6th grade last name A - I
Katherine Dixon 8th grade students, and 6th grade last name J - Z
MS Second Step Program Parent Preview Letter-English
MS Second Step Program Parent Preview Letter-Spanish
Red Ribbon Lessons:
We will continue our Red Ribbon Lessons next week during advisory. Please preview THIS LINK that provides information over the lessons that will be taught. After viewing, if there are any concerns or questions please contact your grade level counselor!For more information on Red Ribbon please also visit this site. CLICK HERE
Schoolwide Information
After School Tutoring with Bus:
We will be adding a late bus at 5:00 PM every Wednesday, starting on October 27. This will allow additional opportunities for students who need tutoring but are limited due to riding the bus. If you have a student needing tutoring, reach out to his/her teachers to schedule tutoring at this time, or other mornings/afternoons for those not riding the bus.
Staff Tutoring Schedule:
If you would like to know when your student's teacher holds tutorials, you can check out those schedules at the link below:
Let's Celebrate our Staff:
Does your student come home talking about a particular teacher whose class they really enjoy? Or, is there a teacher or staff member you would like to recognize or praise? Of course there is! PTA wants to hear from you on all the amazing things our teachers, staff, custodians, and child nutritionist are doing. To let us know, head over to the Griffin MS PTA website and fill out a Shout Out form. https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/shout-outs
Reminder for 8th Grade Parents:
All 8th grade students will take the PSAT 8/9 October 20th. The PSAT 8/9 tests skills in 3 areas: reading, writing/ language, and math. PSAT 8/9 is a great way to find out how ready you are for college and career. Click Here for more information and resources.
2021 STAAR Student Reports:
Students who took STAAR in the district last year will be receiving a STAAR report card from their ELAR teacher next Friday October 22. They should be bringing these home to share with you.
Medical Disposal Opportunity:
See the link below for information regarding the October 23 medical disposal opportunity for The Colony.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
October 8, 2021
What's Happening at GMS?
Tuesday, 10/12:
- 7th grade Football vs. Arbor Creek MS @ Hebron HS - 5:30
Wednesday, 10/13: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
- 7th grade Volleyball vs. Lakeview MS @ Lakeview - 5:30
- 8th grade Football vs. Arbor Creek MS @ Hebron HS - 5:30
- Coffee Talk with the Principal @ 8:15 AM Griffin MS
- 8th grade Volleyball vs. Lakeview @ TCHS - 5:30å
Friday, 10/15:
- TCHS football v. Heritage @ TCHS - 7:00 pm
SAVE THE DATE: 10/22 IS GMS FAMILY NIGHT - Pumpkin painting and Movie under the Stars (Starts at 6:00 PM)
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
1. LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE! TC ROCKTOBER is now underway!
It's the 1st week of our (friendly!) competition between the two most awesome middle schools in The Colony, Griffin and Lakeview, and we are on our way to a pie in our principal's face!!
Griffin: 13%
Lakeview: 12%
We need YOUR help to make this gap bigger so please join us!
What is it? A friendly competition between Lakeview PTSA and Griffin PTA to see which school can get the biggest percentage of members in relation to their student enrollment.
What happens? Everyone joins PTA!
What does the winner get? The winning principal gets a pie in the face, courtesy of MeLisa's Pie Shop AND a $300 check from Elate Orthodontics.
To join Griffin's PTA and help us get a pie in the face for Mrs. Garrison please join our PTA here:
https://griffin-middle-school-pta.square.site/
2. THANK YOU to everyone that participated in our Heritage Spirit Night in September. With your help they were able to donate $60.06 back to our school! We hope that you were able to make it out to our Panda Express night this past Wednesday and please save the date for our NEXT night at Chick Fil A at Spring Creek on Wednesday, October 27th.
3. Dinner Theatre at GMS: Looking for a fun event for the family? Join us on Saturday, November 6th for dinner and a show. Carrabba's Italian Grill will be in house cooking a fresh meal to order. You may eat in the cafeteria or choose your meal to-go. You may also join us for the show Moana Jr. immediately following, tickets to show sold separately.
To get your dinner and show tickets click here: https://griffin-middle-school-pta.square.site/Counselor's Corner
Advisory Lesson This Week:
I mentioned in a previous newsletter that we will be doing lessons related to Digital Citizenship, and one of those lessons for 7th and 8th grade students is about Sexting. We will be doing that lesson this week. If you would like to more information regarding this lesson you can click the link below:
Digital Learning Lesson: Sexting (Librarian-led Lesson)
Digital Learning Lesson: Sexting (Google Presentation)
Red Ribbon Campaign:
We are kicking off Red Ribbon month and will be doing lessons all of October during the students Advisory period. Please preview THIS LINK that provides information over the lessons that will be taught. After viewing, if there are any concerns or questions please contact your grade level counselor!
For more information on Red Ribbon please also visit this site. CLICK HERE
Schoolwide Information
Despite all attempts to discourage students' misbehavior in our restrooms, we are still seeing various forms of vandalism. We are now seeing derogatory and/or obscene messages being written on the walls in the restrooms, some of which include threats directed at staff. I am sharing this with you because you are a part of the Griffin community, and I believe it is important for you to be aware of the behaviors we are seeing. We continue to seek out those individuals who are engaging in these and other inappropriate behaviors. When asked why they are choosing to engage in such poor behaviors, the majority of responses we receive is that they are "trying to look cool" to others, or are "trying to be funny." Please continue to visit with your student about the dangers of treating others disrespectfully, whether it is verbally or physically. I have shared the following with all students:
If every individual on our campus will commit to doing just two things: 1. Be kind, and 2. Be respectful; then every individual on the campus will be treated with kindness and respect.
Thank you for helping me remind students put these practices into action!
Student Restrooms:
Because of some of the recent issues that have occurred in our restrooms, we have made some adjustments for student restroom use. Students were reminded that they are expected to use the 5 minute passing period to take care of their restroom needs. This is not a new expectation, but more and more students were choosing to socialize during this time, and then use class time to go to the restroom. Should a student have an urgent need to use the restroom during class, they can still communicate that to the teacher (without giving any details of course), and they will be able to use the restroom. We have designated specific restrooms for students to go to during class time, and this is to better track any potential vandalism. Students continue to be able to use the restrooms at lunch - they just need to let one of the adults know so we can monitor how many are going at a time.
Coffee Talk with the Principal:
Join me on October 14 at 8:15 for our first Coffee talk since 2019! We will be finalizing our GMS Compact and Family Engagement Policy, as well as share information on how keep up with student assignments through CANVAS, how to set alerts when you student receives a low or missing grade, and more! We will meet in the Lion's Den at 8:15 - check out the flyer below!
October Family Night:
Together with the GMS PTA, we will be hosting our first Family Night of the year! We will have pumpkins to paint starting at 6:00 PM on Friday, October 22, followed by an outdoor viewing of the Halloween classic, Halloweentown. So bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and pumpkin spice latte for a fun evening here at Griffin! See the flyer below for more information.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
October 1, 2021
What's Happening At GMS?
- 7th grade Volleyball vs. Hedrick MS @ Hedrick - 5:30
- 7th grade Football vs. Briarhill MS @ Marcus HS - 5:30
Tuesday, 10/5:
- 8th grade Football vs. Briarhill MS @ Marcus HS - 5:30
Wednesday, 10/6: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
- Orchestra Fall Concert @ GMS cafeteria - 6:00 PM
- 8th grade Volleyball vs. Hedrick @ GMS - 5:30
Friday, 10/8: EARLY RELEASE @ 1:00 PM FOR STUDENTS
- LAST DAY OF THE 1ST NINE WEEKS - ALL GRADES ARE DUE
- TCHS football v. Denton Ryan @ Denton Ryan - 7:00 pm
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE! TC ROCKTOBER is now underway!
We are excited to kick off a super fun (friendly!) competition between the two most awesome middle schools in the city/state/nation/world! Welcome to...ROCKTOBER!
- What is it? A friendly competition between Lakeview PTSA and Griffin PTA to see which school can get the biggest percentage of members in relation to their student enrollment.
- What happens? Everyone joins PTA!
- What does the winner get? The winning principal gets a pie in the face, courtesy of MeLisa's Pie Shop AND a $300 check from Elate Orthodontics.
To join Griffin's PTA and help us get a pie in the face for Mrs. Garrison please join our PTA here:
https://griffin-middle-school-pta.square.site/
Save the date for out Next Spirit Night:
Our next Griffin Spirit Night will be at Panda Express all day on Wednesday, October 6th from 10:30am to 9:30pm. Join us for lunch and then again for dinner! Mention Griffin Middle School when ordering or picking up and 20% of the event sales will be donated back.
PTA Online Store:
Would you like to show your school spirit? PTA has a few Griffin Paw yard signs left! With football and volleyball games in full swing do you need a seat cushion for the stands? PTA has you covered there too! Visit our store on the Griffin PTA website to purchase yours! https://griffin-middle-school-pta.square.site/
Teacher and Staff Shout Out:
Is there a teacher or staff member you would like to recognize or praise? Of course there is! PTA wants to hear from you on all the amazing things our teachers, staff, custodians, and child nutritionist are doing. To let us know, head over to the Griffin MS PTA website and fill out a Shout Out form. https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/shout-outs
Counselor's Corner
Red Ribbon Campaign:
We are kicking off Red Ribbon month and will be doing lessons all of October during the students Advisory period. Please preview THIS LINK that provides information over the lessons that will be taught. After viewing, if there are any concerns or questions please contact your grade level counselor!
For more information on Red Ribbon please also visit this site. CLICK HERE
Schoolwide Information
During the month of September, we had several students vandalize our campus restrooms in the same fashion as seen on a Tik-Tok video. This happened far beyond our campus or LISD. Recently, new information surfaced that has monthly "challenges" related to schools. The list includes an inappropriate behavior as the challenge for each month. I am not going to share the entire list, but October's challenge states: "Smack a staff member on the backside." As hard as it is to believe any student would attempt these types of challenges, it is already beginning. I ask that you visit with your students this weekend about the serious legal and disciplinary consequences that would follow such an action. Additionally, if anyone hears another student talking about doing this, please report it immediately either directly to an adult or via the tip line posted around the campus.
Student Progress Screener:
Due to the tumultuous last several months, TEA recognizes that some students may have gaps in learning. In order to address these possible gaps, the Texas State Legislature recently passed a bill to provide remediation for students in need. Students who did not take the STAAR assessments in 2021 will take a district content specific screener on October 8 to assist in identifying possible needs. If your child is one who will need the screener, you will be receiving a letter via email on Monday, October 4. At that time, if you have questions, please reach out to me.
Coffee Talk with the Principal:
Join me on October 14 at 8:15 for our first Coffee talk since 2019! We will be finalizing our GMS Compact and Family Engagement Policy, as well as share information on how keep up with student assignments through CANVAS, how to set alerts when you student receives a low or missing grade, and more! We will meet in the Lion's Den at 8:15 - check out the flyer below!
October Family Night:
Together with the GMS PTA, we will be hosting our first Family Night of the year! We will have pumpkins to paint starting at 6:00 PM on Friday, October 22, followed by an outdoor viewing of the Halloween classic, Halloweentown. So bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and pumpkin spice latte for a fun evening here at Griffin! See the flyer below for more information.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
September 24, 2021
What's Happening at GMS?
- 7th grade Volleyball vs. Durham MS @ GMS - 5:30
- 7th grade Football vs. Creek Valley MS @ GMS - 5:30
Tuesday, 9/28:
- 8th grade Football vs. Creek Valley MS @ GMS - 5:30
- GMS Band plays at football game @ GMS - 5:00
Wednesday, 9/29: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
- 8th grade Volleyball vs. Durham @ Durham - 5:30
Friday, 10/1:
- TCHS football v. Denton Ryan @ Denton Ryan - 7:00 pm
Communities in Schools (CIS)
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Dads and Dudes Club:
Are you a Dad or a male role model for a GMS Student? Do you like to give high fives, fist bumps, and air hugs? Or are you more of a quiet head nod and "hello" kind of guy? Whatever your style, we need you in the GMS Dad's and Dude's Club! Please join us on certain Fridays, from 8am to 8:55am (or any time in between) to welcome our students and staff into the building.
If you would like to be a part of the next Friday morning Greet time, sign up at the Griffin PTA Website https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/home
Save the date for out Next Spirit Night:
Our next Griffin Spirit Night will be at Panda Express all day on Wednesday, October 6th from 10:30am to 9:30pm. Join us for lunch and then again for dinner! Mention Griffin Middle School when ordering or picking up and 20% of the event sales will be donated back.
PTA Online Store:
Would you like to show your school spirit? PTA has a few Griffin Paw yard signs left! With football and volleyball games in full swing do you need a seat cushion for the stands? PTA has you covered there too! Visit our store on the Griffin PTA website to purchase yours! https://griffin-middle-school-pta.square.site/
Counselor's Corner
Red Ribbon Campaign:
October will begin our Red Ribbon Campaign! This is a program where campuses complete activities the whole month during advisory class focusing on students making healthy choices and decisions related to drug and alcohol prevention. For more information, please click the link HERE to preview the materials and objectives for students and families. For any questions regarding this campaign, please feel free to reach out to us!
Digital Learning: During advisory, we will have a number of different lessons related to different topics. Some of those lessons are part of our Digital Learning Series. Please find an informational letter regarding this series at the links below:
One topic we cover in 7th and 8th grade is about Sexting. Please find information regarding this lesson below:
Digital Learning Lesson: Sexting
Apple Parental Controls :
If you would like information on how to manage and set controls on your students phone or ipad, the link below can walk you through how to do that.
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201304
Apps Permissions for 6th and 7th graders:
6th and 7th grade parents, please check your email for a message from your student's Advisory Teacher regarding app permissions for this school year. These digital forms are due back to your student's Advisory Teacher on Thursday, September 30th. The form asks for your students ID# and advisory teacher (this will be his/her first period teacher for most students). You can find these in Skyward, or just ask your student!
Flyers Attached:
Check out the fliers below. One provides information on Love and Logic and the other provides information for the TC Medical Disposal Day.
Schoolwide Information
Due to some inconsistencies between classes regarding late work, our campus has developed a grade level standard for accepting late work. Although teachers may begin implementing these plans as early as Monday, September 27, all teachers are required to follow this plan starting with the second 9 weeks, on October 12. You can find the policy HERE.
Teacher Tutorial Time:
I have had several questions this year regarding when staff are available for tutoring. Therefore, we have created a list of all teachers and what their designated tutoring times are. If for some reason, your student is not able to attend one of the scheduled tutoring options, he/she will need to email the teacher to arrange an appointment with them at a different time. I have also asked teachers to include this information on their CANVAS pages for your convenience. This list can also be found on the Griffin Website.
Picture Day: We will have LifeTouch on campus Thursday, September 30, for school pictures. Information packets were sent home today with information on ordering pictures!
Texas State Fair Tickets:
State Fair Tickets were handed out today as well. Every student should have received on student admission ticket.
PSAT Testing is Coming in October: All 8th grade students will take the PSAT 8/9 October 20th. The PSAT 8/9 tests skills in 3 areas: reading, writing and language, and math. PSAT 8/9 is a great way to find out how ready you are for college and career. Click Here for more information and resources.
Child Nutrition is Hiring: Know someone who wants to join our team? This fall, child nutrition employees, including cafeteria staff and managers, will receive retention incentive payments starting on October paychecks, up to a total of $1,200 on top of regular pay. Find out details below:
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
September 17, 2021
Important Message to Parents
Griffin Family,
I think it is important to make you aware of situations on our campus, even if it may not directly impact your student. There is currently a viral trend on Tik Tok (a popular social media platform), that has been the source of numerous videos showing theft or vandalism of school campuses across the nation and our campus unfortunately has been directly affected.
We will be monitoring this situation closely and we ask our families to please have a conversation with your child about the impact such acts have on our campus, other students and our teachers and staff.
Moving forward, students will not be allowed to carry technology to the restrooms and will need to follow all campus guidance related to student ID’s, hallway passes and procedures. Students who participate in any acts of theft or vandalism on campus will receive campus discipline, are subject to intervention by our school resource officer and will be responsible for paying for the damages and labor associated with any necessary repairs.
Thank you for your partnership in the education of your child, and for your continued support of our campus.
Heather Garrison
What's Happening at GMS?
- 7th grade Volleyball vs. Delay MS @ Delay - 5:30
- 7th grade Football vs. McKamy @ TCHS - 5:30
Tuesday, 9/21:
- 8th grade Football vs. McKamy @ TCHS - 5:30
Wednesday, 9/22: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
- 8th grade Volleyball vs. Delay @ Griffin - 5:30
Friday, 9/24:
- Dad's Club morning Greeters (Check out GMS PTA for more information)
- TCHS football v. Centennial @ TCHS - 7:00 pm
Communities in Schools
Together We Rise (GMS PTA)
Join us Friday for Dad's Club -
What is Dad's Club? We are currently looking for male role models in our community to come to the school on the last Friday of every month from 8am to 8:55am (or any time in between) to welcome our students and staff into the building. You can be that loud crazy guy giving high fives and fist bumps to the more quiet dad who gives the simple head nod and hello. We NEED you! Our next DC date is Friday, Sept 24th and registration can be found on our Griffin PTA Website: https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/home
PTA Bylaws and Standing Rules: The M.T. Griffin Middle School PTA has updated their Bylaws and Standing Rules in accordance with the TX PTA rules. These documents will be posted in the Griffin Middle School office starting Friday, September 17th 2021 until October 19th, 2021. Anyone wishing to review the proposed Bylaws and Standing Rules of this organization may request to view these during this time. If you have any questions regarding the Bylaws or Standing Rules of this organization please reach out to your PTA President Rachel Doig at griffinpta@yahoo.com.
PTA Online Store: With football and volleyball games in full swing do you need a seat cushion for the stands? PTA has you covered! Visit our store on the Griffin PTA website to purchase yours! https://griffin-middle-school-pta.square.site/
Dinner Theatre at GMS: Looking for a fun event for the family? Join us on Saturday, November 6th for dinner and a show. Carrabba's Italian Grill will be in house cooking a fresh meal to order. You may eat in the cafeteria or choose your meal to-go. You may also join us for the show Moana Jr. immediately following, tickets to show sold separately.
To get your dinner and show tickets click here: https://griffin-middle-school-pta.square.site/
Check out our Griffin PTA Website for more information on the above items and to be in the KNOW!
Counselor's Corner
Dear Parents,
Lewisville ISD Counseling and Social Work Department is grateful to partner with you to support the social emotional needs of all LISD students. We believe education on these issues is key to helping our students become happy, successful people.
Attached are some flyers describing different social issues our students may face. Please review these flyers. If you have any areas that we may assist you or your student, please contact us.
Digital Learning: During advisory, we will have a number of different lessons related to different topics. Some of those lessons are part of our Digital Learning Series. Please find an informational letter regarding this series at the links below:
One topic we cover in 7th and 8th grade is about Sexting. Please find information regarding this lesson below:
Schoolwide Information
- Industrial Technology - Drones, and 3D printing
- Information Technology - Raspberry PI’s, Robots, Cyber Security, and Coding
If your 6th, 7th, or 8th grader is interested, sign up for FREE at the link below:
Camp is limited to 40 Campers! Each applicant’s parent/guardian will receive an application packet via email when they sign up. The Students will be placed on the acceptance list once the application packet is completed and returned. All COVID protocols will be followed.
Football/Volleyball Game expectations: I just want to remind everyone that per LISD athletic guidelines, no outside food or drinks are allowed into sporting events. Regardless of the field or gym, you will be asked to throw away any food or drinks before entering. For your convenience, Griffin MS will have concessions at all events this year.
Picture Day: We will have LifeTouch on campus September 30 for school pictures. More information on ordering will be coming soon!
PSAT Testing is Coming in October: All 8th grade students will take the PSAT 8/9 October 20th. The PSAT 8/9 tests skills in 3 areas: reading, writing and language, and math. PSAT 8/9 is a great way to find out how ready you are for college and career. Click Here for more information and resources.
Child Nutrition is Hiring: Know someone who wants to join our team? This fall, child nutrition employees, including cafeteria staff and managers, will receive retention incentive payments starting on October paychecks, up to a total of $1,200 on top of regular pay. Find out details below:
Destination Imagination: Check out the flyer below for information on LISD's Destination Imagination! It is available to students of all ages. If your student is interested, please attend the virtual informational meeting on Tuesday, September 21, at 7:00 PM.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
September 10, 2021
What's Happening at GMS?
- 7th grade Volleyball vs. Downing MS @ GMS - 5:30
Tuesday, 9/14:
Wednesday, 9/15: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
- 8th grade Volleyball vs. Downing @ Downing - 5:30
Friday, 9/17:
- TCHS football @ Wakeland - 7:00 pm
Communities in Schools (CIS)
Dear Parent/Guardian,
Your student has the opportunity to enroll in the Communities in Schools program located on the campus of Morris T. Griffin . Communities In Schools of North Texas helps students to be successful by providing various academic, social, and cultural services for students and their families.
Communities In Schools of North Texas is a year-round program that operates before, during and after school. Communities In Schools seeks to strengthen and promote success in several areas related to student and school life by providing a wide range of services for students as well as their families. All our services are free.
These services may include the following:
- Academic Tutoring and Educational Enhancement
- Supportive Guidance
- Social Service referrals and support (school supplies, emergency food, clothing, etc.)
- Mentoring Programs
- Enrichment Programs
- Social Issue Awareness & Prevention (Drugs, Gangs, etc.)
- Discussions on topics such as character building, self-esteem enhancement, social and communication skills, goal setting, anger management, and study skills
- Health Enhancement Programs and activities
- College and Career Awareness
Please complete the Parental Consent/ Release of Information Link :https://campscui.active.com/orgs/CommunitiesinSchoolsofNorthTexas?season=3024435&location=1540633
A Parent Consent Form must be completed for your child's participation in this program. Make sure you fill the forms out on ACTIVE.
Together We Rise - GMS PTA
Dinner Theatre at GMS: Looking for a fun event for the family? Join us on Saturday, November 6th for dinner and a show. Carrabba's Italian Grill will be in house cooking a fresh meal to order. You may eat in the cafeteria or choose your meal to-go. You may also join us for Moana immediately following, tickets to show sold separately.
To get your dinner and show tickets click here: https://griffin-middle-school-pta.square.site/
Let's get connected: Did you know that PTA has many ways for you to stay connected with the events and projects we have going on? Pick your favorite way and come see what we are up to.
Website: https://buff.ly/3kHSMQHFacebook: https://buff.ly/3mSdyzT
Twitter: https://buff.ly/3jvYBBg
Instagram: https://buff.ly/2V1blGB
GMS Spirit Night: Our first Spirit Night is coming up on Wednesday, Sept 15th at Heritage Pizza. This event will run all day so visit them for lunch and then take the family for dinner! Don't forget to mention Griffin Middle School PTA when placing your order and Heritage will donate to our school. Heritage is located at 3750 Plano Parkway, The Colony.
Counselor's Corner
Digital Learning: During advisory, we will have a number of different lessons related to different topics. Some of those lessons are part of our Digital Learning Series. Please find an informational letter regarding this series at the links below:
One topic we cover in 7th and 8th grade is about Sexting. Please find information regarding this lesson below:
Schoolwide Information
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1lB5emFJqXw36qPToI7UhC8xaMBTWzjvIOMewit1465Y/edit?usp=sharing
Starting Monday, we will be collecting ipads from students who are still missing fees or the AUP agreement (located in SKYWARD).
PICTURE DAY is Coming: September 30, we will have LifeTouch picture folks out to do our 21-22 school pictures. Students will be receiving flyers with information on ordering pictures next week. Mark your calendars!
PSAT Testing is Coming in October: All 8th grade students will take the PSAT 8/9 October 20th. The PSAT 8/9 tests skills in 3 areas: reading, writing and language, and math. PSAT 8/9 is a great way to find out how ready you are for college and career. Click Here for more information and resources.
Child Nutrition is Hiring: Know someone who wants to join our team? This fall, child nutrition employees, including cafeteria staff and managers, will receive retention incentive payments starting on October paychecks, up to a total of $1,200 on top of regular pay. Find out details below:
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
September 3, 2021
What's Happening at GMS?
Tuesday, 9/7:
- 7th grade football v. Downing @ GMS - 5:30
Wednesday, 9/8: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
- 7th grade Volleyball vs. Creek Valley @ GMS - 5:30
- 8th grade football vs. Downing @ GMS - 5:30
- TCHS Homecoming Parade - 6:00 PM
Thursday, 9/9: B Day (periods 2, 4, 6, 8)
- 8th grade Volleyball vs. Creek Valley @ Creek Valley - 5:30
Friday, 9/10:
- TCHS football vs. Denton @ 7:00 pm - Homecoming Game
Communities In Schools (CIS)
Remember that we now have CIS at Griffin, and Ms. Flowers is excited to get to know you and your student, and she is happy to visit with any student or parent to give more information.
If you are interested in signing your student up for these services, you can do so
https://campscui.active.com/orgs/CommunitiesinSchoolsofNorthTexas?orglink=camps-registration
Together We Rise - GMS PTA
- JOIN PTA! - Currently we are asking for families to join PTA and become a member. The membership cost is $10/person/year and we would love to have at least 1 member of every family join. Where does this $10 go? Most of your donation stays right here in Griffin! We use these dollars to fund different programs for your students, teacher appreciation and for Griffin family and community events! A small portion of the money does go to State and National so they can provide training and support for local PTA's and also legislature support.
- Dad's Club - we are currently looking for male role models in our community to come to the school on the last Friday of every month from 8am to 8:45am (or any time in between) to welcome our students into the building. You can be that loud crazy guy giving high fives and fist bumps to the more quiet dad who gives the simple head nod and hello. We NEED you!
Check out our Griffin PTA Website for more information on the above items and to sign up.
https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/home?authuser=0
Counselor's Corner
Progress Reports: 1st Nine weeks progress reports have now been posted in SKYWARD. If your student has low grades and needs to attend tutorials, he/she can receive that extra help every morning during homeroom (8:15-8:45). If this time is not convenient, please reach out to his/her teacher to schedule a time before or after school.
Digital Learning: During advisory, we will have a number of different lessons related to different topics. Some of those lessons are part of our Digital Learning Series. Please find an informational letter regarding this series at the links below:
One topic we cover in 7th and 8th grade is about Sexting. Please find information regarding this lesson below:
IPAD Update
If your student's IPAD was locked due to failure to provide appropriate documentation in SKYWARD regarding insurance, and AUP agreement, you can resolve the issue by going to the link below:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1lB5emFJqXw36qPToI7UhC8xaMBTWzjvIOMewit1465Y/edit?usp=sharing
Please be aware that any IPAD that is still locked on September 10 due to fees or forms will be collected from students. Be sure you take care of any issue prior to next Friday.
Schoolwide Information
GT Information: Our fall GT referral window will be open until October 1st. When determining whether you should refer your student for GT, please consider the following characteristics. If you would like to move forward with the referral process, please visit the district GT website.
Child Nutrition is Hiring: Know someone who wants to join our team? This fall, child nutrition employees, including cafeteria staff and managers, will receive retention incentive payments starting on October paychecks, up to a total of $1,200 on top of regular pay. Find out details below:
TECC Community Night is Coming Soon: LISD is fortunate to have two amazing career centers within our district! These campuses offer a multitude of courses related to numerous careers. If you would like to visit and see first hand what these centers offer our students, please see the information below regarding the TECC Community Night!
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
August 27, 2021
What's Happening at GMS?
- 7th grade football scrimmage @ GMS - 5:30pm
Tuesday, 8/31:
- 8th grade football scrimmage @ GMS - 5:30
Wednesday, 9/1: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
Thursday, 9/2: B Day (periods 2, 4, 6, 8)
Friday, 9/3:
- TC Spirit Day: Wear Black and Gold to support TC Cougers!
- TCHS football @ North Crowley @ 7:30
**MONDAY 9/6 is Labor Day - NO SCHOOL**
Communities in Schools (CIS)
Remember that we now have CIS at Griffin, and Ms. Flowers is excited to get to know you and your student, and she is happy to visit with any student or parent to give more information.
If you are interested in signing your student up for these services, you can do so
https://campscui.active.com/orgs/CommunitiesinSchoolsofNorthTexas?orglink=camps-registration
Together We Rise - GMS PTA
- JOIN PTA! - Currently we are asking for families to join PTA and become a member. The membership cost is $10/person/year and we would love to have at least 1 member of every family join. Where does this $10 go? Most of your donation stays right here in Griffin! We use these dollars to fund different programs for your students, teacher appreciation and for Griffin family and community events! A small portion of the money does go to State and National so they can provide training and support for local PTA's and also legislature support.
- Dad's Club - we are currently looking for male role models in our community to come to the school on the last Friday of every month from 8am to 8:45am (or any time in between) to welcome our students into the building. You can be that loud crazy guy giving high fives and fist bumps to the more quiet dad who gives the simple head nod and hello. We NEED you!
Check out our Griffin PTA Website for more information on the above items and to sign up.
https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/home?authuser=0
Counseling Corner
Progress Reports: 1st Nine weeks progress reports have now been posted in SKYWARD. If your student has low grades and needs to attend tutorials, he/she can receive that extra help every morning during homeroom (8:15-8:45). If this time is not convenient, please reach out to his/her teacher to schedule a time before or after school.
Digital Learning: During advisory, we will have a number of different lessons related to different topics. Some of those lessons are part of our Digital Learning Series. Please find an informational letter regarding this series at the links below:
One topic we cover in 7th and 8th grade is about Sexting. Please find information regarding this lesson below:
IPAD Update
If your student's IPAD was locked due to failure to provide appropriate documentation in SKYWARD regarding insurance, and AUP agreement, you can resolve the issue by going to the link below:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1lB5emFJqXw36qPToI7UhC8xaMBTWzjvIOMewit1465Y/edit?usp=sharing
Please be aware that any IPAD that is still locked on September 10 due to fees or forms will be collected from students. Be sure you take care of any issue prior to next Friday.
Schoolwide Information
PROGRESS REPORTS: The first 3 weeks of school are in the books! You can find your students first 3 week progress report in Skyward under "Grades." Please contact the teacher with any questions you may have.
REMINDERS FOR STUDENTS: We are seeing some students who are out of compliance with a few of our campus expectations. Please encourage your student make sure they are complying with the following:
- IDs around neck: Help your student by making sure their ID is placed in their backpack, on top of shoes, or other items that will needed for the following day to prevent leaving it at home.
- Tardies: Remind your students that the first priority of passing period is to get to their next class; don't walk your friends to class and end up late because of it!
- Dress Code: Please check your students to ensure they have full length shirts (no crop tops), and shorts/skirts that are at least mid-thigh length or longer. Hats and hoods are not to be worn anytime inside the school building.
- iPads Charged: Please continue to help students remember to charge ipads the evening before, and bring them to school fully charged.
COVID Update: I hope you received my email earlier in the week regarding changes in some of the mitigations in place. Here are a few things we have changed just this week:
- Air purifiers are now in place in every 6th grade class, including electives
- All 6th grade classes have desks all facing the same direction and are either in single rows OR have desk shields between conjoining desks
- Every classroom is supplied with wipes, disinfectant spray and paper towels in order to clean all commonly used surfaces throughout the day
- Lunch lines have been updated to ensure social distancing
KINDNESS WEEK: LISD will celebrate our Kindness Week Kick Off on Monday, August 30 through Friday, September 3. See below for dress up details. Next week will get us started off for a year of kind actions!
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
August 20, 2021
What's Happening at GMS?
- 7th grade Volleyball scrimmage @ TBD
Tuesday, 8/24:
- Open House Meet the Teacher (Come and Go) - 6:00pm to 7:30pm
Wednesday, 8/25: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
Thursday, 8/26: B Day (periods 2, 4, 6, 8)
- 8th grade Volleyball scrimmage @ TBD
Friday, 8/27:
- TC Spirit Day: "Tackle the Tigers" - Wear your favorite sports jersey
- TCHS football v. North Crowley @ 7:00 TCHS
Communities In Schools (CIS)
Remember that we now have CIS at Griffin, and Ms. Flowers is excited to get to know you and your student!
The program seeks to strengthen and promote success in several areas related to student and school life by providing a wide range of services for students as well as their families.
These services consist of academic, social, and cultural services for students and their families.
These services may include the following:
- Academic Tutoring and Educational Enhancement
- Supportive Guidance
- Social Service referrals and support (school supplies, emergency food, clothing, etc.)
- Mentoring Programs
- Enrichment Programs
- Social Issue Awareness & Prevention (Drugs, Gangs, etc.)
- Discussions on topics such as character building, self-esteem enhancement, social and communication skills, goal setting, anger management, and study skills
- Health Enhancement Programs and activities
- College and Career Awareness
Ms. Flowers is happy to visit with any student or parent to give more information.
If you are interested in signing your student up for these services, you can do so
https://campscui.active.com/orgs/CommunitiesinSchoolsofNorthTexas?orglink=camps-registration
PTA is Looking for YOU!
- JOIN PTA! - Currently we are asking for families to join PTA and become a member. The membership cost is $10/person/year and we would love to have at least 1 member of every family join. Where does this $10 go? Most of your donation stays right here in Griffin! We use these dollars to fund different programs for your students, teacher appreciation and for Griffin family and community events! A small portion of the money does go to State and National so they can provide training and support for local PTA's and also legislature support. (Signup drive will take place at the Meet the Teacher event - cash, check or charge available.)
- Dad's Club - we are currently looking for male role models in our community to come to the school on the last Friday of every month from 8am to 8:45am (or any time in between) to welcome our students into the building. You can be that loud crazy guy giving high fives and fist bumps to the more quiet dad who gives the simple head nod and hello. We NEED you!
- Spirit Wear - We have BRAND NEW Griffin spirit wear this year! Everything from t-shirts, dri-fit and hoodies! The last day to order Spirit wear is August 25th and items will be delivered to your student during their advisory period on or before Sept 10th.
Come by the PTA table and see us on August 24th at Meet the Teacher! We would love to get to know you. You can also check out our Griffin PTA Website for more information on the above items and to sign up.
https://sites.google.com/view/griffin-middle-school-pta/home?authuser=0
Counselor Corner
Balancing Classes: We are almost done balancing classes and adjusting schedules! We understand how disruptive and frustrating this can be; however, class sizes that are too big prevent the best learning from taking place. Because we get many students enrolling the first couple of weeks of school, we cannot predict which classes will become too large before the first day. Thank you for your patience through this process.
We are here for you and your students: Please continue to remind your students that if they need us at any time, there are QR codes in every classroom and in the halls. Students can scan the QR code with their phone or ipad, fill out the information, and the counselor will call them down as soon as they are available. This system is in place to ensure privacy when students are in the counseling office.
Changes to After School Pick up Lanes
- PINK PICK UP PATH: All students who are in 6th grade, as well as the siblings of 6th graders, will need to be picked up using the PINK pathway.
- PINK PICK UP PATH: Mr. Hoffert's and Ms. Mobley's classes will also be picked up using the PINK pathway.
- GREEN PICK UP PATH: 7th and 8th grade students (who do not have a 6th grade sibling) will exit the building by the rec center and need to be picked up using the GREEN pathway.
- STUDENTS GETTING INTO CARS: Cars MUST be parked in the right lane of the drive through, next to the sidewalk, in order for students to enter the car.
- Students will NOT be able to walk into the parking lot to enter a car.
- PARKING: If you need to park and come in the building, you will need to use the GREEN pathway and park in the open spots in the middle of our lot.
Morning Drop Off: In the mornings, you need come to the drive through lane and pull into the right lane next to the sidewalk for students to exit the car. These spots are for dropping off students only; you should not stop or park your car for longer than a couple of minutes in this area. DO NOT drop students off in the parking lot area unless you are parking your car to come inside with them. It is important to follow these procedures for the safety of all students.
Schoolwide Information
COVID Update: Due to rising numbers of individuals in the schools who are testing positive for COVID, LISD is strongly encouraging students to wear masks when in the school building. However, this is NOT a requirement. As I mentioned at orientation, desk shields are also available to any student who would like one. They just need to ask their classroom teachers. If there are changes to LISD protocols relating to COVID, communication will come from the district through email. Please make sure your email in SKYWARD is correct.
KINDNESS WEEK: LISD will celebrate our Kindness Week Kick Off August 30 through September 3. See below for dress up details. Ms. Jewell is our Kindness Liaison, and she is always looking for Student Kindness Ambassadors. If your student is interested in serving in this role at GMS, please have them stop by the library and speak with Ms. Jewell.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
August 13, 2021
Welcome Home
What's Happening at GMS?
Tuesday, 8/17:
Wednesday, 8/18: A Day (periods 1, 3, 5, 7)
Thursday, 8/19: B Day (periods 2, 4, 6, 8)
- 7th and 8th grade BAND Parent Meeting (GMS Band hall)
Friday, 8/20:
- Last day to request a schedule change
**Tuesday, 8/24 is GMS Meet the teacher from 6:00 to 7:30**
Communities In Schools (CIS) Information
Communities In Schools of North Texas is a year-round program located at Griffin Middle School that operates before and during school. The program seeks to strengthen and promote success in several areas related to student and school life by providing a wide range of services for students as well as their families.
These services consist of academic, social, and cultural services for students and their families.
These services may include the following:
- Academic Tutoring and Educational Enhancement
- Supportive Guidance
- Social Service referrals and support (school supplies, emergency food, clothing, etc.)
- Mentoring Programs
- Enrichment Programs
- Social Issue Awareness & Prevention (Drugs, Gangs, etc.)
- Discussions on topics such as character building, self-esteem enhancement, social and communication skills, goal setting, anger management, and study skills
- Health Enhancement Programs and activities
- College and Career Awareness
Ms. Flowers is happy to visit with any student or parent to give more information.
If you are interested in signing your student up for these services, you can do so
https://campscui.active.com/orgs/CommunitiesinSchoolsofNorthTexas?orglink=camps-registration
Schoolwide Information
- When dropping off your student for school in the morning, be sure to pull up and to right next to the curb when dropping off.
- Do NOT park your car in pick up lane at any time. We have visitor spots in front of our parking lot if you need to park and get out of your car.
- When picking students up, please enter the school lane at the WEST entrance (closest to Peters Colony Elementary).
- As you come up to the front entrance, you need to keep pulling forward as far as you can through the drive - do NOT stop at the main entrance if there are open spots further up.
- ONLY stop when you are pulled all the way to the right next to the curb.
Dress Code Reminders: Please help your students by ensuring they are following the dress code. A few issues we have seen already this week include:
- Students wearing short or "cropped" top shirts with leggings. Students are welcome to wear leggings but it must be with a long shirt that comes to about the student's finger tips.
- Crop tops should not be worn at all, regardless of the pants/skirt.
- Students should not wear hats, hoodies, or other "headwear" during the school day.
Ipad Distribution: For those of you whose student is waiting to receive an iPad, please know that we are distributing them as they are sent to our campus from LISD technology. We have asked that this be expedited as quickly as possible, and they are working as quickly as possible.
Ipad Fees: For students who already have their ipads, the AUP agreement (part of the forms in Skyward) as well as insurance (if you are getting it) must be completed by August 31, or the ipad will be collected. Please make sure this is completed by the date.
Student IDs: Our ID badges have been delayed due to some printing that needed to be added on the backside of the ID. They should arrive at GMS on Monday, and we hope to get them out by advisory on Wednesday.
Buses: I apologize for how late our bus riders are being picked up this week. Please know that we are in contact with the bus supervisors, and they are still working out routes and schedules based on the students who are riding. The departure time from GMS should continue to improve this week. Please continue to reach out with specific concerns.
Counselor Corner
Schedule Change Requests: The deadline for requesting a schedule change is Friday, August 20th. If you have already put in a schedule change request, the counselors will be working through those throughout the week. Please understand that schedule changes due to students changing their minds on electives may or may not be able to be accommodated, depending on class sizes.