The Bulldog Bark
Week of August 17th
Dear Galileo Parents, Guardians, and Community Members,
Welcome to the 2026-2027 school year! We are so excited to have our students back in the building and learning together once again. Throughout the first week, we have been delighted to see students return enthusiastic, engaged, and ready to learn. Their positive energy has already made for a fantastic start, and we know this is going to be an amazing year!
As we begin the year, we'd like to share a few important reminders to help ensure a successful school experience for all students.
School Day Schedule
- Breakfast: Available daily (except on late-start days) beginning at 8:20 a.m. in the cafeteria.
- Tardy Bell: 8:40 a.m.
- Dismissal Bell: 3:49 p.m.
Student success begins with attendance. We need students here, on time, every day and ready to learn. Consistent attendance and punctuality are critical to academic success and help students make the most of every learning opportunity.
Backpacks and Personal Belongings
This year, students will not be assigned lockers. Instead, students will carry their backpacks from class to class throughout the day.
Upon entering each classroom, students will place their backpacks in a designated, secure area until the end of class. They will then retrieve their backpacks and take them to their next class.
Please note that purses, fanny packs, and small backpacks are strongly discouraged. Students will not be permitted to keep these items with them during class and will also be required to store them in the designated classroom area.
Hallway Passes and Restroom Use
To minimize disruptions to instruction and maximize learning time, students will receive only a limited number of hallway passes. Students are strongly encouraged to use the restroom during passing periods and other designated times. Reducing unnecessary trips during class helps ensure all students remain engaged in learning.
Cell Phone Expectations
In accordance with District 11 policy, students are required to use Yondr pouches each day.
Students must place their cell phones in their Yondr pouch at the beginning of the school day and keep them secured throughout the day. Pouches will be unlocked as students exit the building at dismissal.
This practice helps us maintain a focused learning environment where students can engage fully in their classes, teachers, and peers.
We Look Forward to a Great Year!
Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Together, we can make this school year a positive, productive, and memorable experience for every student.
If you have questions, concerns, or would like to volunteer, please don't hesitate to contact:
- Jeff Sterk, Principal
- Brandy Hall, Assistant Principal
- Nick Schultz, Project Manager
- Tad Banker, Dean of Students
📞 719-328-2200
Thank you for being a valued part of the Galileo community. We are excited for all that lies ahead and look forward to a fantastic 2026-2027 school year!
Go Bulldogs! 🐾💙
Warm Temperatures in the Building
As we jump into the start of the school year, we are anticipating hotter-than-normal temperatures, including warmer conditions inside Galileo Middle School. As our community knows, Galileo does not have a central air-conditioning system.
Our Facilities and Operations teams are taking several steps to reduce indoor temperatures and maintain a safe learning environment. These include:
- Bringing the coolest possible outdoor air into the building during the early morning hours
- Using the school’s evaporative coolers to circulate that air
- Maintaining fresh-air circulation throughout the morning
We will closely monitor conditions throughout the building and make adjustments as needed. If temperatures create any concern for the safety or comfort of students and staff, we will communicate proactively with families about additional steps.
Thank you for your flexibility and understanding as we work to keep Galileo safe and ready for learning.
Important: Students participating in athletics are required to have a current sports physical on file before they can participate.
Lower-Cost Physical Options:
Urgent Care
- Walk-ins welcome: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- 1035 Garden of the Gods Rd. #120, Colorado Springs, CO
- (719) 365-3200
- Cost: $30
- Student must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.
Peak Vista Community Health Center
- 2828 International Circle
- 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
- Appointment required
- Fees based on income
🏐 Volleyball Season Is Almost Here! 🏐
Attention students and families! Volleyball open gyms begin next Monday! Open gyms and practices will typically be held Monday through Friday from 4:00-5:30 PM in the Galileo gym, as long as there is no game scheduled.
Our coaching staff this season:
- Ms. Rachel Makrucki, Head Coach
- Mr. Nathan Kaczmarek, Assistant Coach
Game Reminder: B Squad plays first, followed by A Squad.
Volleyball Schedule
- 8/26 @ Sabin, 4:15 PM
- 8/31 @ Carmel, 4:00 PM
- 9/2 Home vs. Carson, 4:15 PM
- 9/9 Home vs. Fox Meadow, 4:15 PM
- 9/14 Home vs. Mountain Vista, 4:15 PM
- 9/16 Home vs. Panorama, 4:15 PM
- 9/21 @ Fox Meadow, 4:00 PM
- 9/23 @ West, 3:45 PM
We are excited for another great season of Bulldog Volleyball! Whether you're a returning player or trying out for the first time, we hope you'll join us for open gyms and get ready for an exciting season. Come ready to work hard, improve your skills, and have fun.