Blacklick Bulletin
**Updated: September 4, 2023
Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools is excited to introduce a new texting tool that will help families connect better with their schools and teachers. We heard in our communication survey that text messages are the preferred communication method to receive information from GJPS and to support this feedback, we are expanding our district use of TalkingPoints to all staff and families.
TalkingPoints is a texting platform that allows families to receive the messaging as a text or through the TalkingPoints app. It also provides instant access to the messages in more than 150 languages. For families who choose to receive TalkingPoint communication straight to your text inbox, you will need to save the text numbers separately so you know who they are from. Otherwise, we encourage you to download the TalkingPoints for Parents mobile app in the app store on your iPhone or Android for additional features. More information about accessing messages can be found on our GJPS District website.
You will be receiving text messages from the District, Mrs. Groves and teachers in the coming weeks so please be on the lookout!
The next PTO meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, JANUARY 9, 2024 in the Blacklick library at 6:30 PM. There is a not a PTO meeting scheduled during the month of December.
PTO Newsletter - November 2023
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Karen Davidson, PTO President, at ptoblacklick@gmail.com.
The Valentine's party is quickly approaching (February 15th) and we need your help to make it a fun celebration for the entire school!
Right now, we are looking for Lead Classroom Volunteers. If you would like to be the leader for a classroom, please volunteer on the Sign Up Genius below. Once leaders are identified, we will send out another Sign Up Genius for additional classroom volunteers. Any questions... reach out to the PTO (ptoblacklick@gmail.com).
Lead Classroom Volunteer Responsibilities
- Contact your teacher to see if they have any specific requests/ideas for the party, as well as the number of volunteers they would like to have at the party, and if they need any party supplies.
- Reach out to the other parents in your classroom asking if they wish to volunteer to start organizing, planning, and/or signing up for the day to help.
- Plan out the party: Typically, parties consist of 4-5 stations. These can include passing out Valentines, a craft, and games.
- Review and get approval of the party plan approved by the teacher
- Get supplies for crafts and games, if needed.
- HAVE FUN at the party!!
- Help with clean-up.
- Students are not permitted to exchange valentines that contain food or candy. If food or candy is attached to the valentine, they will not be distributed. In addition, no candy or food can be brought into the classroom as treats.
- Funding the party (aka mostly craft and game supplies) can be done in a variety of ways. Either covered by party volunteers or through creating an Amazon Wishlist for any family to purchase.
Blacklick Elementary Parents: Valentine's Day Party (signupgenius.com)
As a school community we will be collecting pop tabs for the Ronald McDonald House of Central Ohio. Please check your child's PRIDE folder for information regarding this collection.
WHAT: The Pop Tab Program is a fundraising project that supports Ronald McDonald House Charities. By collecting tabs from aluminum cans, RMHC of Central Ohio is able to recycle them in exchange for money that is then put towards paying the utility bills for the Ronald McDonald House.
WHEN: September 5, 2023 - May 1, 2024
WHERE: Students can drop off pop tabs in the boxes located in each hallway at Blacklick Elementary.
Celebrating Our Staff
We are excited to announce the Heart and Pride staff recognition award! This award is being established to recognize outstanding staff members who make a profound impact on our students and Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools.
This nomination form will remain open year-round and is open to any member of our staff, regardless of position.
If you believe your family may qualify for free/reduced-price meals, please apply online for free or reduced-price meal benefits with these easy steps:
- Sign in to your Infinite Campus Parent Portal.
- Choose "MORE" in the left-hand column.
- Choose "MEAL BENEFITS".
RELATED LINKS
Free/Reduced-Price Meal Benefits Online Application Tutorial (PDF)
Mark Your Calendar!
November 28 Family Night Out at Glow Putt
December 7 Family Night Out: MOD Pizza
December 20 Last day of school before winter break for students
January 2 Staff Professional Learning Day
January 3 Students first day back after winter break
January 4 Pride Talk: Kick off of One School/One Book Project
January 12 Pride Talk: Be the Light (Grade 2 and 4 will be performing) *More details to come!
January 15 No School in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day