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Hawk Highlights

GVMS Weekly Newsletter

Hawk Highlights GVMS Weekly Newsletter
Hawk HighlightsGVMS Weekly Newsletter

January 5, 2025, Volume 4, Issue 19 January 5, 2025, Volume 4, Issue 19

Dear GVMS Parents, Students, and Staff:

Please note: My newsletter is scheduled to go out at a specific time. At the time of writing this, PWCS has not yet made an announcement regarding the impending weather. Any updates about code red/inclement weather day(s) will be communicated directly by PWCS.


If inclement weather occurs, we will resume on a B-day schedule when we return to school.


Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible events that closed out our December. From showcasing student talents to celebrating achievements, the final weeks of 2024 truly captured the spirit of our school community. Be sure to check out the pictures and updates below to see the joy and hard work that made the season so special.


Looking ahead, 2025 brings fresh opportunities to grow and achieve together. Our partnership continues to be the foundation of everything we accomplish, and I’m excited for all we will achieve as a school community this year.


Monday, January 6, 2025 is a B DAY.


Here's to another successful and impactful week at GVMS! With a Champion Mindset, Together We RISE!


In Partnership,


Ed Schultz

Principal

schultej@pwcs.edu

GVMS Building Hours

Our Bell times for the 24/25 SY are: 8:10 AM - 2:50 PM


Instruction will begin at 8:15 AM each day. There will not be a homeroom/ advisory at the beginning of the day. On time arrival is very important to ensure there is no loss of learning opportunities for our students.


Please Note: Students arriving after 8:10 AM (not on a bus) will be marked tardy.

We are able to welcome students as early as 7:40 AM. Students will be seated in the Cafeteria until 7:55 AM.


Parents/Guardians: The kiss and ride line can become a bit long in the morning however, from 7:40 - 8:00 AM it is moving pretty well. You may consider dropping off prior to 8:00 AM to beat the rush.


PLEASE do NOT enter the surrounding neighborhood, Lifetime Fitness/ Wentworth Green dr./ University blvd. to drop off/ pickup your child. This is unsafe and will not be permitted.

You must use our kiss and ride procedures found below for arrival and dismissal.


Office Hours: 7:30 - 4:00 PM

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Hawk Highlights

Hawk Highlights is my weekly newsletter to families. I will send Hawk Highlights out weekly, typically on Sunday evening. You will receive a text link and an email each week to the newsletter.

This is the best source of receiving updated information weekly from the school. I do provide quite an abundance of information in these newsletters but have received supportive feedback from families with this approach. I will remove information in which the deadline has past, pertaining to the information provided. Hawk Highlights is archived on our school website and you can access prior editions from there.

Winter House Games Winter House Games

House Winners for our winter house games is...

House Mercury!!!!

In 2nd place is Innovation

In 3rd is Voyager!!Thanks to everyone for making house games so fabulous!!! And a special thank you to Ms. Lauck and all house leaders for organizing such an engaging and collaborative experience for our students and staff!

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Winter House Games

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Winter House Games

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Winter House Games

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Winter House Games

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Winter House Games

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Winter House Games

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Winter House Games

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Winter House Games

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Winter House Games

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Winter House Games

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Winter House Games

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Winter House Games

Holidays in the Halls Holidays in the Halls

Thank you Mr. Ballas, Ms. Bertke, Mr. Persons, Mr. Peters and our amazing performers for entertaining us as we headed into winter break!

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Holiday in the Halls

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Holiday in the Halls

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Holiday in the Halls

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Holiday in the Halls

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Holiday in the Halls

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Holiday in the Halls

Spirit Week Spirit Week

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Spirit Week

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Spirit Week

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Spirit Week

Heritage Hunt Concert Heritage Hunt Concert

This past Wednesday, students in the Advanced Mixed Choir at GVMS took a trip to Heritage Village Assisted Living where they performed some of their winter concert material. When they were finished, the residents joined in and sang some classic carols with the students. The students made new friends and were able to hear stories from some of the residents about their time in school and choir in particular. They even met one resident who was a college choral professor!

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Click image below for the newest issue of the Gainesville Gazette: Click image below for the newest issue of the Gainesville Gazette:

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Gainesville Gazette December 2024

Gainesville Gazette December 2024

A group of 6th grade students created this newspaper from start to finish, from deciding what articles would be included, to interviewing, writing, taking pictures, and designing the layout!

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Congrats to AD band students! Congrats to AD band students!

We had 11 students audition for the All-District Band last Saturday. I am pleased to report that 7 students were selected for the band this year. If you see these students, please give them a big congratulations!



Bethany Wilburn, flute

Kasey Lyon, clarinet

Nathaniel Panameno, trumpet

Shad Farooq, trombone

Briyana Damptey, baritone

Rigel Villaruel, tuba

Ethan Pace, percussion


In addition, three students placed first out of all the auditioners in our district. The three students that placed first are Kasey Lyon (1st out of 60 clarinetists), Briyana Damptey (1st out of 9 baritone players), and Rigel Villaruel (1st out of 16 tuba players).

GVMS Robotics GVMS Robotics

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Battle of the Bridge tournament

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Battle of the Bridge tournament

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Battle of the Bridge tournament

Congratulations to our Robotics teams for their outstanding performance at the Battle of the Bridge tournament! A special shoutout to the four teams: 1481H, 1481A, 1481B, and 1481F that advanced to the elimination rounds—your hard work, innovation, and teamwork truly paid off. We are so proud of your achievements and can’t wait to see what you accomplish at the next tournament!


1481H: Mason Hansberger, Peyton Owsley, Jalil Goodwyn, Kaiden Davis, Meera Cheviry, Saif Khan, Ragaav Keerthivason

1481A: Prentices Jeffcoat, Aaron Tinsley, Ethan Thompson, Dev Khatiwala, Joel Varghese, Dusan Zivkovic, Jordan Tan, Dilan Snawy

1481B: Liam Clinton, Jason Patterson, Aarav Devani, Nicholas Pistun, Patrick Oister, Bryent Yemanyi, Jimmy Taylor

1481F: Owen Borja, Nolan Om, Josh Middleton, Haariz Ahmad, Mehtab Dhanoa, Caleb Teshome


Robotics spirit wear is available to order online now through January 7, and will be delivered prior to the next tournament. https://stores.athletesmark.com/gainesville_robotics/shop/home

GVMS - Teacher of the Year Nominees GVMS - Teacher of the Year Nominees

We are thrilled to announce that 7 incredible teachers have been nominated for Gainesville Middle School Teacher of the Year! These educators have gone above and beyond to inspire and support our students, making a lasting impact on our school community. Over the next two weeks, we’ll be highlighting each of these outstanding nominees—4 this week and 3 next week—listed in alphabetical order. Please note, this order is not a reflection of the selection process, as all of these nominees are equally deserving of recognition. Our Teacher of the Year has already been selected by a panel of peers and will be revealed by the end of the month. But truly, each of these nominees exemplifies the spirit of excellence at GVMS!

Steven Ballas Steven Ballas

Mr. Steven Ballas consistently goes above and beyond to support his students. This year, he took on the challenge of teaching an Adaptive Music class for students with special needs, a role he had no prior experience with. Despite feeling overwhelmed initially, Mr. Ballas embraced this opportunity to grow, reaching out to colleagues and resources to ensure his students received the best possible education. His efforts have made a significant impact, offering a specialized musical opportunity to students who have never had one before at GVMS.

As the band director, Mr. Ballas has led his ensembles to impressive results, including 14 Superior ratings at the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association (VBODA) Performance Assessment. His clear and individualized instruction helps students excel both musically and personally, ensuring each student’s success.

Beyond his classroom, Mr. Ballas plays a key role in the GVMS community, co-leading the Restorative Practices Committee and serving as the Encore Department Chair. His involvement extends to mentoring new teachers and supporting students in extracurricular activities, demonstrating his dedication to the entire school community.

Mr. Ballas’s commitment to his students, particularly in his work with special needs students, highlights his exceptional impact on GVMS and underscores his dedication to ensuring all students succeed.

Carla Barb Carla Barb

Mrs. Carla Barb is a compassionate Special Education teacher at Gainesville Middle School who consistently prioritizes her students' needs. In her role as a 7th-grade Language Arts teacher, she works collaboratively with her colleagues to ensure that her students are meeting the same standards as their peers. Mrs. Barb is a strong advocate for students with disabilities, always speaking up for their needs and ensuring they are fully included in classroom activities. Her leadership is evident not only in her Special Education department but also within the wider school community, where she is a valuable resource for both staff and families.

Mrs. Barb’s commitment to collaboration extends beyond the classroom, as she co-teaches four classes with three different co-teachers, fostering positive relationships with both general and special education colleagues. She is known for her flexibility and willingness to support others, whether by offering guidance on working with students with disabilities or assisting with department tasks. Her dedication to her students is further demonstrated by her proactive communication with parents, regularly reaching out to share positive feedback and ensuring they feel involved in their child's education.

In addition to her role as an educator, Mrs. Barb is an active member of the Sunshine Committee, contributing to school-wide events, and is deeply involved in her church and community. Her passion for teaching and commitment to her students make her an invaluable asset to Gainesville Middle School.

Melanie Brown Melanie Brown

Mrs. Melanie Brown is a school social worker who has made a significant impact on the GVMS community. In her 8th year at the school, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional work performance, earning high evaluations and maintaining perfect attendance. Mrs. Brown is deeply involved in both the school and broader community, most notably for her role in creating and running the therapy dog program, which offers emotional support to students. She also co-facilitates counseling groups and plays a key role in several school teams, including the TA and SEB teams.

Mrs. Brown's leadership is rooted in her ability to connect with students and families. As a self-described introvert, she leads by example, showing that leadership comes in many forms. She provides a trauma-informed space where students feel seen and supported, particularly those facing behavioral or mental health challenges. Her commitment to student well-being is further demonstrated by her ongoing pursuit of a doctorate in social work, aiming to deepen her understanding and support for students’ mental health needs.


Mrs. Brown is also instrumental in securing resources for students in need. She works closely with community partners and staff to provide food, clothing, and holiday assistance for families. Her efforts have raised gift cards for families in need. She is a valued member of the team, consistently advocating for the welfare of students and representing educators in a positive and empathetic manner.

Jason Maneno Jason Maneno

Mr. Jason Maneno's impact extends far beyond the classroom. With over 25 years of experience, he is deeply committed to making science engaging and accessible for all his students. His love for the subject is contagious, inspiring students to develop a genuine appreciation for science. Parents have praised his ability to create an emotionally safe and stimulating learning environment, where students are not only excited to learn but also feel respected and valued.

Mr. Maneno’s commitment to student success is reflected in his consistent attendance and strong professional record. He goes above and beyond to ensure that every student moves forward, making learning fun while maintaining high academic expectations. As a long-standing Science Department Chair, he has contributed to the county by helping shape the science curriculum, editing county-wide tests, and mentoring fellow teachers. He also oversees the highly successful science fair program, consistently guiding students to top honors.

His leadership extends beyond his own classroom, as he advocates for teacher autonomy and supports his colleagues whenever possible. Mr. Maneno’s dedication to teaching is also evident in his community involvement and his pride in the long-term relationships he builds with his students. His ability to represent the positive impact of education and his genuine care for students make him an invaluable part of the GVMS community.

Gainesville Middle School's house system holds the key to their low chronic absenteeism rates
GVMS RISE Logo: Resiliency, Integrity, Safety, and Excellence
GVMS Upcoming Events

GVMS Upcoming Events GVMS Upcoming Events

All clubs and practices begin at 3:00 PM and end at 4:30 PM unless otherwise noted.

Monday, January 6, 2025

  • 3-4:30 p.m., Clubs - Battle of the Books, Dungeons & Dragons and Pokémon, Gospel, FBLA, Writing

  • 3-5 p.m., Athletics Practice - Boys Basketball, Cheer

  • 3-5 p.m., Robotics - Tech Team Practice


Tuesday, January 7, 2025

  • 3-5 p.m., Athletics Practice - Boys Basketball, Cheer


Wednesday, January 8, 2025

  • 3-5 p.m., Drama - Spring Cabaret Auditions

  • 5:15 p.m., Home Game - Boys Basketball


Thursday, January 9, 2025

  • 3-4:30 p.m., Clubs- Art, Baton, Chess & Other Strategy Games, Step Team

  • 3-5 p.m., Drama - Spring Cabaret Auditions

  • 3-5 p.m., Robotics - Tech Team Practice

  • 5:15 p.m., Away Game - Boys Basketball


Friday, January 10, 2025

  • 3-5 p.m., Athletics Practice - Boys Basketball, Cheer


Monday, January 13, 2025

  • 3-4:30 p.m., Clubs – Book Club, Dungeons & Dragons and Pokémon, Gospel, FBLA, NJHS, Writing

  • 3-5 p.m., Robotics - Tech Team Practice

  • 5:15 p.m., Away Game - Boys Basketball


Tuesday, January 14, 2025

  • 3-5 p.m., Athletics Practice - Cheer

  • 7-8 p.m., Band - 6th Grade Concert


Wednesday, January 15, 2025

  • 3-5 p.m., Athletics Practice - Cheer


Thursday, January 16, 2025

  • 3-4:30 p.m., Clubs - Battle of the Books, House Leadership Meeting, Chess & Other Strategy Games, Step Team, Yearbook

  • 3-5 p.m., Athletics Practice - Cheer

  • 3-5 p.m., Robotics - Tech Team Practice


Friday, January 17, 2025

  • 3-5 p.m., Athletics Practice - Cheer


Monday, January 20, 2025 - Wednesday, January 22, 2025

  • NO SCHOOL


Thursday, January 23, 2025

  • 3-4:30 p.m., Clubs – Baton, Battle of the Books, Art, Chess & Other Strategy Games, Step Team

  • 3-5 p.m., Athletics - Winter 2 Sports Tryouts, Cheer Practice

  • 3-5 p.m., Robotics - Tech Team Practice


Friday, January 24, 2025

  • 8th Grade Field Trip - NMAAHC

  • 3-5 p.m., Athletics - Winter 2 Sports Tryouts, Cheer Practice


Saturday, January 25, 2025

  • Regional Battle of the Books Open Competition

  • Robotics – Competition @ Marsteller MS

Traffic Support for clubs and activities Traffic Support for clubs and activities

Due to some traffic concerns in the afternoons when dismissing after school activities, we ask that you please park your vehicle in the GVMS parking lot if you arrive prior to our scheduled 5:00pm pick-up time. When it is 5:00, you may leave your parking spot and move into the pick-up line as usual.

We will be providing you with a colored pass to display in your dashboard to signal that you are a 5:00 pick-up parent. We appreciate your willingness to help us with traffic in the afternoon and hope that this ensures a smoother pick-up process for all!

This is to support those activities that conclude at 4:30 to allow a smoother flow of traffic and to keep our kiddos safe.

Varsity Online Tutoring - Available 24 Hours per Day, 7 Days a Week Varsity Online Tutoring - Available 24 Hours per Day, 7 Days a Week

FREE Service Available 24 Hours per Day, 7 Days a Week

Varsity Tutors for Schools platform is a FREE online resource for grades K-12 designed to support your students’ academic growth. This platform offers: 24/7 On-Demand Chat Tutoring, Essay Review and Coaching, Live Group Classes, Test Prep Classes, Enrichment Classes, and Celebrity-Led Star Courses and more.

How Do Student Access Varsity Tutors? Students access Varsity Tutors by logging into Clever using their PWCS email address (for example, username@pwcs-edu.org) and password (this is the same password students use to log into their PWCS issued device). Once logged into Clever, you can find the link for Varsity in the PWCS Resources section. For more information please visit: https://www.pwcs.edu/departments/instructional_technology/online_tutoring/index

Link to Varsity Resources
Important Information

Schedule Change request 25/26 School Year - GVMS

Parents who would like to make changes to their student's schedule for next year will need to complete this change of request form. All requests will be reviewed. A request for change after January 6th may not be able to be accommodated. We will not accept requests for changes after the last day of school, June 12th, 2025.

GVMS Game Night: January 30 - GVMS GVMS Game Night: January 30 - GVMS

Virginia School Survey of Climate and Working Conditions Virginia School Survey of Climate and Working Conditions

Student Opt-Out Form

Our school, in cooperation with the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services and the Virginia Department of Education, is conducting the Virginia School Survey of Climate and Working Conditions.


We will survey students in grades 6, 7, and 8, as well as classroom instructors and staff, beginning in January 2025. The purpose of the student survey is to measure student support, student engagement, school discipline, and safety conditions in each school. This information will be used to guide educational practices that produce a safe and supportive school environment.


The student survey will be completed in January 2025 during PM Hawk Time/ Advisory. The survey does not ask for your child’s name and all answers are anonymous. No one, including teachers and administrators, will know how your child answered the survey questions. You will not have access to your child’s survey answers. You may preview the questions asked in the student survey at this website: https://tinyurl.com/VaSchoolSurvey.

The survey will ask questions such as how students feel about their school, how students get along with one another and their teachers, how students feel about school rules, and their perceptions of their teachers’ willingness to help them. Please note that there are questions about topics that may be sensitive to some, including questions about bullying, mental health, and suicide. This is a great time to talk to your child about these important issues. For guidance and more resources on these topics, please see https://tinyurl.com/MentalHealthdcjs or https://tinyurl.com/VDOEstudentservices.

All students in your child’s grade level are eligible to participate in the survey. The survey is voluntary and you and/or your child can decide they prefer not to participate. No action will be taken against you, your child, or the school if your child does not participate. If you do not wish for your child to participate, please notify the school office by completing this form by January 6, 2025.

The Virginia School Survey results are provided to the school around the end of the school year. You can find survey results for your school and division here: https://tinyurl.com/VaSchoolSurvey. The results are used by the school, the division, and the state to identify strengths and to address relevant needs to improve learning environments for your child as well as students across the state.

Thank you for your cooperation in this important study of Virginia’s schools.

GVMS - Virginia School Survey of Climate and Working Conditions Opt-out Form GVMS - Virginia School Survey of Climate and Working Conditions Opt-out Form

Microsoft Forms

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Parent Resources

GVMS PTO UPDATES GVMS PTO UPDATES

GVMS PTO Membership and Spirit Wear Store

News from the PTO

No PTO meeting this month! See everyone in February.



PTO Meetings

September 25th

October 30th

November 13th

December 11th - Cancelled

February 12th

March 12th

April 9th

May 14th

GVMS Spiritwear Winter 2024

GVMS Spiritwear Winter 2024

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GVMS BOOK FAIR

GVMS BOOK FAIR

The GVMS Book Fair is just around the corner! The librarians need volunteers to help with set up, help during the fair and help with break down. The book Fair will be held the week of December 9-13th. Set up will be Friday December 6th.

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PTO is happy to announce that every THURSDAY for the entire school year will be PAPA John's day.

PTO/ SAC Meeting Link

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5304181380?pwd=YUttd1dORE9qNzE5cFVYbmxyWktsdz09&omn=81798392365


Meeting ID: 530 418 1380
Passcode: N8ww3C

Please join the 2024-2025 PTO in supporting our school community.
Donate to assist the PTO in supporting the needs of the GVMS community
PTO supports the weekend backpack program

School Advisory Council School Advisory Council

The purpose of a school advisory council is to provide opportunities for members of the school community to participate in the decision-making process at the local school level. A primary function of the council is to serve as an advisory body to the principal and school leadership team.

The school advisory council function is connected to the Prince William County Schools Strategic Plan, supporting Commitment 3- Family and Community Engagement, Objective 3.1- Prince William County Schools will engage families as authentic partners in education to support academic progress. By 2025, at least 85% of schools will have a high-functioning advisory council.


SAC Meetings - Following PTO Meetings

September 25th - Welcome, Introduction to the school continuous improvement plan

October 30th - This is a rescheduled date due to home sporting event at GVMS-Enrollment, staffing, approved budget

November 13th - Student Achievement date, update on CIP goals

December 11th - Student Achievement date, update on CIP goals. Focus on Student attendance and how to improve from parent feedback. How to assist on Monday's and Thursday's with traffic for after school activities.

February -12 Proposed budget, Student Achievement date, update on CIP goals

March 12 - Update on CIP goals

April 9 - Update on CIP goals

May 14 - Adopted budget, Student Achievement date, update on CIP goals

Email Link to submit Citizen Time questions
PTO/ SAC Meeting Link

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5304181380?pwd=YUttd1dORE9qNzE5cFVYbmxyWktsdz09&omn=81798392365


Meeting ID: 530 418 1380
Passcode: N8ww3C

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GVMS School Counseling Information GVMS School Counseling Information

GVMS Counseling Team Newsletter

GVMS Counseling Team Newsletter

GVMS Counseling Team Newsletter - November 2024 by Jacquelyn Leif | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, businesses and more

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PWCS High School Specialty Programs

PWCS High School Specialty Programs

PWCS High School Specialty Programs - 2024-2025 by Jacquelyn Leif | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, businesses and more

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GVMS Parent Liaison Information GVMS Parent Liaison Information

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I'm Determined Youth & Family Summit 2025 I'm Determined Youth & Family Summit 2025

Youth & Family Summit Application


The Youth & Family Summit is sponsored by the Virginia Department of Education. Parent(s)/guardian(s) must attend with student(s) under age 18. All costs associated with lodging and meals are covered, as well as reimbursement for mileage to and from the event. Application must be completed by the student requesting to attend. Only completed applications will be accepted for review. All applications are due by January 12, 2025 by midnight.


https://jamesmadison.jotform.com/242875363312962


https://imdetermined.org/applying-for-the-youth-family-summit/


https://imdetermined.org/event/2025-youth-and-family-summit/

This marks the end of new information: Below information remains for reference This marks the end of new information: Below information remains for reference

PWCS School Fee Payments Just Got Easier! PWCS School Fee Payments Just Got Easier!

Further instruction in link below:
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Student Attendance at After School Athletic Events Student Attendance at After School Athletic Events

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Parents: As a reminder or first time information for our 6th grade students and parents, please review the below information for students attending after school athletic events as spectators:


Dismissal: Spectator Students must go home their usual way at the end of the school day. To attend an after-school event, spectator students must then be dropped off by a parent or guardian for the event.


Waiting at School is not permitted: Students who are not participating in the game as athletes, must not stay on school grounds to wait for the event to begin. Please see above for process.


No Bag Policy: As a reminder, there is a no-bag policy for game attendees. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work together to keep our schools safe.


Behavior Expectations: All students attending the event are expected to adhere to the PWCS Code of Behavior. Any infraction of these expectations can result in loss of school privilege of attending after school events and activities.


Student Pickup: Parents are required to pick up their child immediately following the event.


Post-Event Transportation: Students are not permitted to walk home or to any other location after the event. Pickup must be by a parent, guardian, or approved carpool.


Ticket Price is $1 for students and $3 for adults. Cash only.


Thank you for helping us ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone!

Eligibility for Athletics Eligibility for Athletics

Middle school interscholastic athletics follows the Virginia High School League (VHSL) eligibility rules, and in addition to the VHSL eligibility rules, the following applies to interscholastic athletics, marching band, and drill team:

  • To be academically eligible, a student must pass a minimum of five classes and fail no more than one class for the nine-week grading period. The student shall be declared ineligible for the next grading period when not meeting this standard. This rule applies to practice as well as game participation. Students will begin or end academic eligibility or ineligibility on the Monday following the end of the grading period workday. Transfer students must comply with this standard, and grades from the transferring school must be reviewed to determine eligibility before participation by the Athletic Coordinator. Students who become eligible may begin game participation on Monday following the end of the workday for the grading period.
  • Participation in middle school athletics is a privilege. Students are expected to abide by school expectations and the student Code of Behavior. Should the principal or principal’s designee determine that a student is not in compliance with school expectations or the student Code of Behavior they may at their discretion limit or suspend the right to participate or attend extracurricular activities.

GVMS Cell Phone Policy GVMS Cell Phone Policy

Cell Phone-Free Education in Virginia K-12 Public Schools

Executive Order 33 directs the Virginia Department of Education to provide guidance to school boards on cell phone-free education policies and procedures. School boards will establish local cell phone-free education policies and procedures.


PWCS has been sharing information on this executive order with the community and the division's approach to meeting this guidance.

Please know, I will continue to provide updates on our Cell Phone Free education policies to ensure clarity to our GVMS community. Essentially, student phones and wireless headphones/earbuds are expected to be away for the duration of the school day.

At GVMS we have been off and away for the day for some time now. This will not be a drastic shift in policy for our students.


I have provided a letter below providing additional information on: Student Cell Phone/Wireless Device Use for 2024-25 School Year. This letter also contains links to the division guidelines and FAQ's. Please remember, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out and talk through any questions or concerns you may have with me.

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  • First Offense – The student will surrender the wireless communication device, and it will be returned to the student at the end of the class period. The student will sign the Acknowledgment of Further Consequences Form. The teacher/staff member will document this offense in The Hub.


  • Second Offense – The student will surrender the wireless communication device, the device will be locked in the main office, and the device will be returned to the student at the end of the school day. The student will receive a second warning and the teacher/staff member will notify the parent/guardian via SchoolStatus. The parent will be informed that the next offense (third offense) will result in a disciplinary incident in The Hub and the parent will have to retrieve the device. The teacher/staff member will document this offense in The Hub.


  • Third Offense – The student will surrender the wireless communication device, the device will be locked in the main office, and a referral will be generated documenting the violation of the cell phone guidelines. The student will complete a Healthy Cell Phone Use Canvas Module during a lunch detention, after-school detention, restorative reflection, or Saturday school. The parent/guardian must retrieve the device from the school office and sign the Acknowledgment of Further Consequences Form.


Any disciplinary infraction that a student commits arising from the staff or school administration’s attempt to enforce the cell phone guidelines shall result in disciplinary consequences determined by the Code of Behavior and Tiers of Response.

Who is responsible for adhering to these guidelines and securing personal belongings?

It is each student’s responsibility to follow the guidelines and ensure the security of their wireless communication devices. Classes and instruction will not be interrupted to search for lost devices.

Weapons Detection System Weapons Detection System

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As part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring a safe and secure learning environment for all students, we are pleased to announce that we will continue utilizing our weapons detection system on day one of welcoming our students to GVMS. This advanced technology will enhance our existing security protocols and help us quickly identify potential threats, ensuring the safety of our students and staff.


  • The building will open to students at 7:40 AM, 30 minutes prior to the start of the school day.
  • We will have two entries into the building while all other doors will be locked. Those entries will be:
    • Door 1 (Main Entry) - Parent drop-off and walkers
    • Door 1 and 18 - Bus riders
  • Once the school day begins, all visitors and students arriving after the bell will enter through Door One and will go through the screening.


To prepare ahead of the use of the technology in your school, families are encouraged to help reduce the possibility of “false alerts” on everyday items. While none are prohibited, using these guidelines will ensure quick entry for everyone:

  • Select clear and plastic school supplies over covered/concealed and metallic when applicable.
  • Use three-ring binders with plastic spines/rings (non-metal).
  • Use plastic (versus metallic) BPA-free water/coffee bottles.*
  • Use hard plastic eyeglass cases (versus metal).
  • Students should pack lightly and limit the number of items in bags or other equipment.
  • Keep superfluous metallic items at home (game consoles, beauty products, USB drives).
  • Laptops and umbrellas will be passed around the technology via a staffed table.


  • Watch this video to learn more about entry through the system.


Further Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding this screening technology can be found on the PWCS website. If you have any questions or concerns about this new security measure or any other aspect of our school’s safety protocols, do not hesitate to contact us. Your partnership and support are vital in making our school community safe and conducive to learning.


Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. We look forward to working together to create a safe and nurturing environment for all our students, staff, and families.

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GVMS Policies

Click the image above for more information about the GVMS Cell Phone Policy, Dress Code, and the PWCS Code of Behavior

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PWCS Breakfast and Lunch Information

Click the link above for information about meal prices and menus for the 24-25 school year.

2024-25 Meal Applications Available Now

Dear Parent or Guardian:

Meals are available for free for eligible students in Prince William County Public Schools. In order to receive these benefits, you must apply for meal assistance every year. Applications filed last year are only good for the first few days of school. Children from households that meet Federal Income Guidelines are eligible for free meals.

Read Federal Guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions – English

Read Federal Guidelines and Frequently Asked Spanish - Spanish


The fastest way to apply for free meal benefits for your child is to apply online:

Application in English

Application in Spanish

Online applications are typically processed within 48 hours of submission.

Households receiving SNAP or TANF for their children or who have foster children may not have to fill out an application. School officials will notify those households of children who do not need to apply. If you do not receive notification by August 12th, 2024, you must contact the Food and Nutrition Department, or submit an application.

School library controls for parents now available School library controls for parents now available

Our library circulation system provides the option for parents to restrict access to specific titles in circulation in our school library, if they choose that option for their child. While the school shall make reasonable efforts to ensure that the student is not provided with access to such materials, it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to ensure that the student understands the restriction and does not attempt to access the materials.

If you are interested in restricting specific library titles for your student(s), please visit the “Parent Library Controls” webpage for more information.

Restriction of library materials using the “Additional User Type” is a parent's responsibility. Librarians and school administrators can provide access to the link but cannot provide support within the system.

School Library Controls for Parents

Energy Drinks Energy Drinks

In an effort to support safe participation, PWCS does not support the use of energy drinks by students and athletes. Athletes are prohibited from the use of energy drinks for any reason, especially for the purpose of re-hydration before or after exercise. Fluid replacement drinks or drinks used to replenish body fluid after exercise are defined as drinks that replace energy and electrolytes to assist the body in recovering from exercise. Fluid replacement drinks are not classified as energy drinks. Some common examples of fluid replacement drinks are Gatorade and Powerade.
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Sharing of Food and Birthdays/ Events Sharing of Food and Birthdays/ Events

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Sharing of Foods and Beverages PWCS REGULATION: 275-1


Schools shall discourage students from sharing their foods or beverages with one another during meal or snack times. Food allergies can result in an allergic reaction in which the student’s life is threatened. Given concerns about allergies and other restrictions in certain children’s diets, food and beverages should not be shared.



No Shared Food Items: Parents will not be permitted to bring in food items for their child to share with others during the school day. This policy helps us maintain a safe and secure environment for all students.


Individual Food Items: If you wish to bring food for your child, you may do so with the understanding that the food is solely for your child.


No Outside Food Deliveries: Delivery services such as Grubhub, DoorDash, Uber Eats, etc., are not permitted. Allowing these deliveries increases the number of people entering our building, which poses a safety and security risk.


Visiting for Lunch: If you would like to come to GVMS to eat with your child, please provide us with advance notice. We are happy to accommodate by reserving the conference room for your visit. Should your child wish to invite a few friends, please contact the grade level administrator and the front office ahead of time. We will coordinate with the parents of those children to receive permission in advance. Please avoid last-minute arrangements.


We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we strive to ensure a secure and welcoming environment for everyone at GVMS.

Transportation Transportation

PWCS Transportation Information

Questions or concerns about your bus route? Submit a request below.

Submit a request

launch pwcstransportation.zendesk.com
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PWCS Here Comes the Bus App

Wondering where the bus is? Click the image above to register for Here Comes the Bus.

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PWCS Bus Delays

Click the link above for more information about late buses in PWCS.

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GVMS Traffic Patterns

Click the image above for more information about GVMS traffic patterns.

Bus Schedules Bus Schedules

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TECHNOLOGY INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INFORMATION

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Parent Vue Information

Click the image above for more information about accessing Parent Vue.

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Canvas Pairing

Click the image above for more information on how to pair with your student's Canvas page.

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GVMS Student Devices

Click the image above for more information about student devices, optional insurance, and the PWCS Device Handbook.

Parents - Check your School Status Communications Settings:

Stay in the know! Check or Modify your SchoolStatus communications settings: Check your Subscription Status - text STATUS to 939393

Subscribe to School Messages - text START to 939393

Unsubscribe from School Messages - text STOP to 939393

Clubs and Activities

CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES

GVMS Club Information will continue to be updated on the school website over the next few weeks. Click the Clubs link below and the GVMS student announcements for more information.


The activity buses for after-school clubs will begin on Monday, September 9, 2024. Activity buses run at 4:45 on Mondays and Thursdays as long as the school is in session.

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GVMS CLUBS

Click on the image above for quick access to club applications and information.

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GVMS Athletics

Click on the image above for quick access to athletics information.

Say Something Anonymous Reporting System Logo
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PWCS uses the “Say Something” Anonymous Reporting System (SS-ARS) designed specifically for students in grades 6-12 and staff to report any type of serious or potentially violent concerns of unsafe behavior or threats of harm to self or others. Say Something is a youth violence prevention program from the national nonprofit organization Sandy Hook Promise and is provided and sustained at no cost to PWCS.

“Tipsters” can send reports on anything from school threats they’ve seen or overheard to personal crises including sexual harassment, self-harm, and depression. The system enables school administrators and those in law enforcement to create effective interventions and intervene upon at-risk individuals to help prevent violence, suicide, bullying, self-harm, and other forms of threatening behavior.

All tips submitted receive an immediate response by one of the highly skilled crisis counselors at the Sandy Hook Promise National Crisis Center; this person then determines the necessary support steps. When credible tips are received that are life-threatening and require immediate attention, the crisis center will notify school-based representatives, even after hours. And, in cases of imminent threat, the crisis center will contact local 911 dispatch and involve law enforcement. Users can submit a tip by calling 1-844-5-SAYNOW or by visiting www.saysomething.net. The free app is available for download from the App Store and Google Play Store, where students can submit tips instantly.

Student Days Off Student Days Off

The link below provides attendance processes and information to include pre-arranged absences and PWCS regulations pertaining to student absences.

GVMS Attendance Page
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Contact Information Contact Information

Administation Team

Mr. Edward Schultz - Principal - schultej@pwcs.edu

Ms. Michelle Praul - 6th Grade Assistant Principal - praulmh@pwcs.edu

Mr. Steve Williams - 7th Grade Assistant Principal - williasp@pwcs.edu

Mrs. Abby Sentman - 8th Grade Assistant Principal - sentmaal@pwcs.edu

Safety and Security Team

Mr. Antione Jeter - jeterad@pwcs.edu

Mr. Jeffrey Barnes - barnesja@pwcs.edu

Counseling Team

Mrs. Jessie Castles - Director of School Counseling - castlejm@pwcs.edu

Mrs. Jacquelyn Leif - Last Names A - C - leifjm@pwcs.edu

Mrs. Erin Abbott - Last Names D - I - abbotte@pwcs.edu

Mrs. Sarah Ware - Last Names J - Mi - waresm@pwcs.edu

Ms. Alexis Hawkins - Last Names Mj - R - hawkinam@pwcs.edu

Mrs. Autumn Brown - Last Names S - Z - brownal2@pwcs.edu

Mrs. Tina Perez - Registrar - pereze1@pwcs.edu

Parent Liaison

Mrs. Elisa Dacales - dacaleer@pwcs.edu

Technology Team

Mrs. Christine Richmond, Instructional Technology Coach: richmocm@pwcs.edu

  • Canvas
  • Parent Vue/Student Vue


Mr. Brian James, Technology Specialist: jamesbw@pwcs.edu

  • Device Information and support
Ed Schultz
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