September 11, 2026

Our Student/Parent Handbook can be found on our school webiste. Periodically in this newsletter we will share sections from the newsletter for our families. This week's focus: Attendance.

"Nothing is more important than regular, punctual attendance for students to grow as students and individuals. We believe that every day matters. Regular and punctual attendance is essential to the proper and meaningful instruction of our students. Connecticut state law requires parents to have their children attend school regularly during the hours and terms that the public school is in session. As parents and families, you can help your child understand the importance of school by promoting daily attendance and seeing to it that our students arrive on time and remain for the full school day."

Students played a game called "Sleeping Beads" where they hid beads on their number rack under a paper tent. Their partner(s) used addition and subtraction strategies to figure out how many beads were "sleeping"!

We invite all of our GFS/JWL families and students to our Back To School Night on Wednesday, September 16th from 5:30-7:00. This is a night for students to share their classrooms and days at school and meet their teacher(s). In previous years, we have had a presentation to families from the administration prior to going to visit classes and teachers. This year, it is all about visiting those classrooms and meeting teachers. Please remember this not a night to discuss your student's progress with their teacher. It is about letting our students share their learning space and met GFSJWL Caring Adults.

Monday, September 14th - PTO Meeting at 3:30 - All are Welcome

Wednesday, September 16th - GFS/JWL Back to School Night at 5:30

Friday, September 25th - Early Release Day (1:00) for Professional Learning

Save the Date - Picture Day is Friday, October 2nd

Please find the following links with helpful Math program information, Bridges, for your students' grade level. Each link will give an overview of the topics covered for the year with a more in depth strategy page based on the unit your students class is currently working towards mastering.

Breakfast is available and free to all students. We recommend families have a conversation with their student about whether they should or should not have breakfast. Please note that Breakfast is not served on Delayed Opening Days.