Gayle Newsletter
Dear Gayle Middle School Families,
We had a great first week of school at Gayle! Our Panthers are settling into their routines, learning their schedules, reconnecting with friends and staff, and getting back into the rhythm of the school day.
Overall, the start of the year has gone very smoothly, and we appreciate the patience, flexibility, and support of our families as everyone gets acclimated.
We are excited about the year ahead and look forward to continuing to build on this strong start together.
With Panther PRIDE,
Deanna Fierro-Kin
Principal, T. Benton Gayle Middle School
Membership is quick and easy! Simply scan or click the QR code to register and become part of this impactful organization. Together, we can continue to make a positive difference for our Panther Pride!
Purchase Spirit Wear Here! Click here for details.
Registration Link: https://tbgmspta.givebacks.com/store/items/875037
Arrival and Dismissal Procedures
Car Rider Pick-Up & Drop Off Procedures
To ensure safety and efficiency during arrival and dismissal, please review and follow the guidelines below:
Morning Drop-Off
Drop-off begins at 9:00 AM. Please do not drop off students before this time, as staff supervision is not available.
Use the front loop of the school for all morning drop-offs.
Remain in your vehicle and pull forward as far as possible before letting your child out.
Students must exit from the passenger side only and walk directly into the building.
Do not use the bus loop or parking lot for drop-off.
Afternoon Pick-Up
Dismissal begins at 3:50 PM.
Car rider pick-up takes place in the front loop, the same location as morning drop-off.
Remain in your vehicle and pull forward when directed. Staff will assist students as they locate their rides.
For everyone’s safety, students may not cross the traffic line to enter vehicles.
Avoid prolonged parking or idling in the yellow emergency lane prior to dismissal. This area must remain clear for emergency access.
Safety Reminders
Do not use your phone while in the car rider line.
Follow the directions of staff members at all times.
Only individuals listed on your child’s approved pick-up list will be allowed to pick them up.
** Walkers will be dismissed last for safety. Due to high levels of traffic during dismissal, walkers are now dismissed last, once traffic is reduced to safe levels.
Bus Transportation Updates
Bus routes for the 2026-2027 school year are now available in the MyRide K-12 app. Drivers have not yet been assigned, but we encourage all families to download the app to track updates in real time.
If you used MyRide K-12 last year, you do not need to re-register. You do need to re-link your student(s) to make sure your information is correct. [Watch this short video] to learn how to set up or update your account. Staying up to date in the app means you’ll get the latest information on your child’s route and driver.
Daily transportation updates will also be posted on the Bus Delays & Notification Dashboard. If you have an issue, the quickest way to get help is by using our Issuetrak online form.
A few reminders as the school year begins:
Pickup and drop-off times may change during the first few weeks while routes are adjusted for efficiency.
Check the app often for the most current pickup, drop-off, and route details.
Times shown are when the bus will arrive at your child’s stop. High school drop-offs may be slightly earlier, and elementary drop-offs may be slightly later.
Please be patient as families and drivers get used to new routines.
Be sure to review the 2026-2027 School Year Calendar and X/Y Calendar to help plan ahead and make sure students attend every day.
Early Dismissal Procedure Update
For safety reasons, we will no longer pull students from class in advance based on a phone call from a parent or guardian. All adults entering the building for early dismissal must present a valid photo ID at the entrance before the student will be called from class.
Please plan your arrival time accordingly, as it may take a few minutes for your child to be dismissed once you arrive. This process helps us ensure that every student is released safely. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
IMPORTANT: Immunizations Required for Rising 7th Grade Students
All rising 7th grade students must have proof of required immunizations on file before the first day of school, WEDNESDAY August 12, 2026. Students without proper documentation will:
NOT be permitted to start school.
Per the Virginia Department of Health’s School and Day Care Minimum Immunization Requirements, students entering 7th grade must have received the following after their 11th birthday:
Tdap booster
First dose of Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine
HPV vaccine series (Parents/guardians may choose to opt out after reviewing approved educational materials.)
Submit proof of immunizations to:
Email: Nurse Fleming – flemingal@staffordschools.net
Fax: (540) 373-8856
Failure to provide documentation will result in the student being unable to attend classes on the first day.
Medication Drop-Off Instructions
If your child requires medication during the school day, it must be brought to the clinic by a parent or guardian. All medications must be in their original, labeled container and accompanied by the required Stafford County Public Schools medication form. Students may not carry medications on their own unless specifically authorized for emergency use (such as an inhaler or EpiPen). Please contact our school nurse for any questions or to schedule a drop-off time.
