East Weekly
September 12, 2025
I want to take a moment to share some context and clarity about our bookbag policy at Middle School East. Over the summer, the administrative team, consisting of the principals from all three Gahanna middle schools, met to discuss classroom practices. We also reviewed hallway and bookbag policies from other Central Ohio middle schools and found that many, though not all, do not allow bookbags in the hallways. This has been a request from GMSE teachers for the past few years, as bookbags can create crowded hallways and often end up on classroom floors, causing safety and space concerns.
While this may feel like a change at East from recent years (bookbags were not permitted in hallways until just after COVID), we are seeing positive results with the policy in place. We have smoother transitions, clearer hallways, less broken Chromebooks, and fewer behavioral issues so far! One reason this policy is especially important for our 6th and 7th graders is that their class schedules are blocked, meaning that when they transition, all three grade levels are in the hallways at the same time. To help reduce congestion, 6th and 7th graders are asked not to carry bookbags. Our 8th graders, however, are permitted to carry them because they additionally transition at separate times, often without 6th and 7th grade students in the halls, which makes their transitions less crowded.
Teachers are working flexibly with students as they learn locker combinations and figure out the best times to stop at lockers. Our team leaders reviewed the policy earlier this month, and the consensus was to continue with it. Our 6th and 7th grade staff have determined appropriate times to stop at lockers (before school, before lunch, after lunch, and at the end of the day), however once students are efficient and able to go between classes, or sign-out from class to use their locker, they can!
I know change can be difficult, but we are committed to supporting students who may be struggling. We’re happy to problem-solve with families and work on a plan that makes carrying needed items more manageable.
I’ve also received a lot of questions about tote bags, purses, and drawstring bags. The intention of allowing smaller bags is for carrying essentials—such as a novel, calculator, pencil pouch, or feminine hygiene products—not as a substitute for carrying Chromebooks or notebooks. Most students only need their Chromebook and a small notebook or 2 from class to class, and many have opted to use a sturdy binder or “trapper keeper” to keep it protected.
I truly appreciate the feedback families have shared. Please know we will continue to reflect on the policy and look for ways to improve as the year goes on. Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and support as we work together to make GMSE a safe and welcoming place for all students.
Take care,
Megan Kirsten
GMSE Principal
The Gahanna Middle School East PTA (GMSE PTA) is excited to offer the Raise Right program to help families offset the cost of the 8th grade trip to Washington, D.C. This fundraiser gives families the opportunity to earn money toward their child’s trip simply by purchasing digital or physical gift cards for everyday expenses like groceries, gas, shopping, and dining out.
SEPTEMBER IS ATTENDANCE AWARENESS MONTH!
Starting strong in September makes a big difference for the whole school year. Research shows that students who miss just 1–2 days in the first month are much more likely to become chronically absent later on. That’s why we’re working together to build positive attendance habits now!
When students come to school every day they:
build routines that help them feel confident
stay connected with friends and teachers
have the best chance to succeed academically and socially
This year, as an All-Star District in the Stay in the Game! Attendance Network we are celebrating Attendance Awareness Month as a part of our campaign!
Thank you for being our partners in helping every student become an Attendance All-Star!
Do your part in ensuring you get to school on time and ready to learn! If you haven't done so already, take the pledge! Students will take the Pledge next week!
September 18: FIVE GUYS dine out night! -- Flyer above! AND National Cheeseburger Day!
Sept 22-24- Rosh Hashanah
September 23: 6th grade parent teacher/conferences
September 26: 7th grade zoo field trip
September 30: All grades parent teacher/conferences
October 1: Picture make-up day
October 9: All grades parent teacher/conferences
October 14: 7th and 8th grade choirs - 7:30 p.m. @GMSW
October 24: KONA ICE
October 28: - District 9th Grade Band - 7:30 p.m. @GLHS
Upcoming PTA Meetings:
10/13/25 @ 7pm
11/10/25 @ 7pm-- virtual
12/8/25 @ 7pm
1/12/26 @ 7pm
2/9/26 @ 7pm
3/9/26 @ 7pm
4/13/26 @ 7pm
5/11/26 @ 7pm
We’re always looking for ways to connect classroom learning to the real world or allow students to explore the future—and we’d love your help! If you're open to sharing your job title and a brief description of what you do, we’d love to learn more. We’re gathering a list of parents and guardians who might be interested in speaking to students about their careers, allowing students to shadow for a day, or participating in a future career fair.
If this sounds like something you'd consider, please take a moment to fill out this quick google form. Thank you for helping our students dream big!
We want our staff to be happy and enjoy coming to work every day. Below are just some of the ways that you can celebrate and recognize our amazing staff at East!
- PTA/Families spoil us!- Click here to join PTA!
- Student and/or family shout outs- Click here if you want to send a shoutout to a staff member!
- Heart and Pride Award- 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.
