What a fabulous first week at GMS!  As of today, we are 1,341 students strong.  This is right about where we were at the end of last year.  It has been so much fun watching the students learn where they need to go, especially those 6th graders.  But they weren't the only new ones to the campus.  It has been an adjustment for our new teachers as well.

Ms. Alver, 7th grade math, helping a student with an assignment.

 Mrs. Hernandez, lifeskills, explaining the day to her students.

 Mr. De la Garza, Band, working on maintaining the correct beat.

Mrs. Garnett, 6th/7th ELA, showing students how to use their journals.

 Ms. Ranson, 7th ELA, offering suggestions on how to personalize their journals.

 Mrs. Synder, 7th ELA, monitoring students as they read.

Ms. Christensen, 6th Math, checking on her students at lunch.

Mr. Nyc, 7th Social Studies, listening as students present their 'brown bag' projects.

 Ms. Army, Teacher Assistant, supporting a student on the computer.

 Office Melton, SRO, monitoring students after lunch.

The week was busy with volleyball and football tryouts.  Our first volleyball game is Thursday.  The 8th graders are here on campus starting at 5:30 while the 7th graders go to O'Henry.  Come out and support the team!  Football begins the 15th.  

We have also starting composting on campus.  There are now three bins in the cafeteria:  recycle, composting, landfill.  Students have to determine which bin to place their items.  A huge thank you to Mr. Doggett for getting this started.  

All students should now have planners and locks.  Lockers will be distributed Monday during EXCEL.  Also on Monday, students will select their EXCEL class.  

I also encourage you to join the PTA as well as the three booster clubs on campus.  Each of these organizations support the school financially, as well as helping to build school spirit.  

I have enjoyed meeting your children and look forward to working with you.  Please stop by and introduce yourself.  

Have a great end of August weekend!