TGMS Weekly Updates

Subject: Student Reminder: Spray Tags Prohibited in School Buildings Beginning October 19

Dear TGMS Parents and Guardians,

Our District is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and focused learning environment where every student can learn and feel a sense of belonging. I am writing to ask for your partnership in keeping our learning environment safe, focused and free from distractions.

Recently, we have seen an increase in students bringing collectible backpack accessories to school, specifically “Sprayground tags.” These items include ornamental metal or plastic tags, shark-mouth luggage tags and novelty replica bills, such as “million-dollar bills,” that come with Sprayground brand backpacks or are collected separately.

While we understand these items are popular collectibles, they have increasingly become a source of disruption in our classrooms and on our playgrounds. Concerns include theft and resale of the tags, conflicts that have led to fights, and anxiety among students related to the pressure to own or obtain them. Some metal tags may also present safety concerns due to their weight or sharp edges, while novelty replica bills can create additional distractions.

Effective Monday, October 19, 2026, Sprayground tags and similar ornamental tags and novelty replica bills will no longer be permitted in our middle school buildings.

This restriction applies to these specific types of accessories, not ordinary backpack charms or keychains.

Please check your child’s backpack before they leave for school and ensure any prohibited items are removed and kept at home. If a student brings a prohibited tag or novelty replica bill to school, the item will be confiscated and held in the school office. A parent or guardian will be required to pick it up.

We appreciate your partnership in reinforcing the importance of treating one another with respect and helping us address these concerns. Our goal is to reduce distractions, prevent unnecessary conflicts and ensure our schools remain places where all students feel safe and ready to learn.

Thank you for your understanding, cooperation and continued partnership in maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.

Respectfully,

Dr. Morford

TGMS

We are off to a fantastic start. Toll Gate Middle School is hosting its annual Walk-a-thon Fundraiser. Last year's Walk-a-thon was a HUGE success and we are looking forward to a great event this year. The money raised will help to fund student events and programs throughout the school year. The program runs from October 2 - October 30. Take a look at the flyer and scan the QR code for more details, including a list of fun incentives!

Holidays can be a stressful time for families. Some of our local families would like to help those in need by providing a Thanksgiving Meal to enjoy on Thanksgiving Day. If you are need for this service please RSVP by 11/16/26 by contacting the counselor below. More details will come with the date and time of pick up to follow! Please contact our school counselor, Kelli Saksa, if your family is in need Phone: 614-834-6400/ kelli_saksa@plsd.us

Dear Families,

Pickerington Schools are once again teaming up with the Violet Township Fire Department to help provide some holiday assistance for families in need during this holiday season.

In need of assistance?

Request an online form for holiday assistance by contacting me at Kelli_Saksa@plsd.us or at (614) 834-6400 The request link will then be provided to you, only one per household please. This form is handled in a confidential manner with more details from your school counselor. Please remember that we will only be able to supplement your holiday. The online form must be completed by Tuesday, November 24th.

Would you like to help others in need?

There are several ways to donate this year:

● The traditional big red boxes throughout the community and in the schools accepting donations of new toys/gifts.

● Gift cards are also appreciated.

● Cash donations through Paypal.

● Another way of donating this year is through Amazon and Target. If you would prefer to donate in this way, click on the links below. Be sure to ship to Violet Township Fire Department Toy Drive (address will appear as an option).

Veterans Day is rapidly approaching. Toll Gate Middle School would like to take the opportunity to recognize and honor those who have served or are currently serving our country in the armed services. We are asking that you fill out the form below and have your son/daughter return it to school by Wednesday, November 4. If you have a friend or a family member who is currently serving or who has served our country, please write his/her name, the war they fought in (if applicable), the military branch served under, and the name of your Toll Gate student. A star will be made to honor all names returned to us by November 4 . The stars will then be placed on the windows of the Media Center November 11. Thank you for your support of this project.

From the TGMS PTO:

Thank you to everyone who attended our meeting on Wednesday! We appreciate the support and need help with TGMS events coming up like the Walk-a-thon, the Teacher Treat Trolley and Family Fun Night.

Please reach out to the PTO at tgmspto@gmail.com with questions and how you can help!