Family Update
August 15th 2025
Principal's Message
What a vibrant start to the school year we’ve enjoyed! Over the past two days, our students have joyfully discovered their new learning environments, grown familiar with their schedules, and begun nurturing friendships. Our 6th grade House sorting ceremony was truly inclusive—filled with excitement and a real sense of belonging for every student. As we look ahead to Monday, it's time to build on that momentum. We’ll be shifting into purposeful learning—bringing rigor, clear instruction, and strong study habits into everything we do. I can't wait to see our students embrace this next phase with the same enthusiasm and curiosity they've already shown. Let’s get to work!
Attendance Matters at West
- By 6th grade, chronic absence becomes a leading indicator that a student will drop out of high school?
- Research shows that missing 10 percent of the school, or 18 days, negatively affects a student’s academic performance?
- During the 2024-25 school year, chronic absenteeism decreased by 1.9% when compared to the 2023-24 school year? This is the second-largest improvement in GJPS!
- For the 2025-26 school year, our goal is to decrease chronic absenteeism by 3% or more?
At West, we are excited to partner with you to support your student's success. Regular attendance is one of the most important ways to help your student learn, grow, and thrive. Every school day matters, and together, we can make this their best year yet! If you or your family are experiencing challenges getting to school regularly, please don't hesitate to reach out to your student's counselor or our Assistant Principal at any time! We are here to help!
House Sorting Ceremony
Our House sorting ceremony was an absolute blast! You could feel the buzz of excitement when students discovered their House—grins lighting up their faces left and right. It was even more amazing to see the 6th graders cheered on by our spirited 7th and 8th graders as their Houses were revealed.
Picture Day
School pictures are on Monday August 18th.
Click Below to View Sports Schedules for the Season
Competition Robotics
Interested in robotics?The middle school robotics competition team is taking applications for the 2023-2024 team. Read more about the team here: Gahanna Middle School Robotics
Current 7th and 8th grade students are encouraged to apply. Click the team application for more information. Team Application Application is due by August 25th.
Any questions, please contact Mr. Merrick at merrickd@gjps.org
Navy Week Event in Columbus
The National Veterans Memorial Museum is hosting an event during Navy Week - the Navy’s signature outreach initiative, that brings 50 to 60 Sailors to Columbus to engage with the community through a dynamic schedule of performances, educational outreach and community service projects.
In partnership with the Columbus Air Show, they are hosting “An Evening with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels” on Friday, August 22, 2025. This special evening includes a meet and greet with members of the Blue Angels team along with the chance to explore the museum’s exhibits and a special display by the Naval History and Heritage Command.
Event Details:
Date: Friday, August 22, 2025
Doors Open: 5:30 p.m. | Program: 7:00 p.m. (on the rooftop)
Location: National Veterans Memorial and Museum, 300 W Broad Street, Columbus, OH
Cost: FREE with advance registration
Register Here: my.nationalvmm.org/aneveningwith/blueangels
District Dates
Sept. 1, 2025: Labor Day - No School
Oct. 2, 2025: PD Day - No School
Oct. 3, 2025: Conference Comp Day - No School
Oct. 20, 2025: Staff Work Day - No School
Nov. 10, 2025: PD Day - No School
Nov. 26-28, 2025: Thanksgiving Break - No School
Dec. 22, 2025-Jan. 1, 2026: Winter Break - No School
Jan. 2, 2026: Staff Work Day - No School
*Jan. 5-8, 2026: High School Schedule Altered for New Building Opening
Jan. 19, 2026: Martin Luther King Day - No School
Feb. 13, 2026: PD Day - No School
Feb. 16, 2026: Presidents Day - No School
Mar. 9, 2026: Staff Work Day - No School
Mar. 20, 2026: Conference Comp Day - No School
Mar. 30-April 3, 2026: Spring Break- No School
May 1, 2026: PD Day - No School
May 22, 2026: Last Day of School for Students
May 23, 2026: Class of 2026 Commencement
Upcoming School Events
Heart and Pride
The Heart and Pride Award recognizes two outstanding staff members each month who make a profound impact on our students and Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools.
The Heart & Pride Nomination Form will remain available year-round and is open to any member of our staff, regardless of position.