September 2026 Grizzly Tales

Dear Garwood Families,

Welcome to a fresh school year! Joining the Garwood community last year made it instantly clear just how remarkable this school is, and our team remains deeply honored by the trust you place in us every day. Keeping your child’s growth, safety, and well-being at the heart of every decision continues to be our top priority, and your partnership with us is a critical piece of our school success.

I will continue to send out monthly newsletters this year. Please remember to read them thoroughly as they are packed with important dates, event details, and key updates for the weeks ahead. For ongoing news, daily highlights, and quick reminders throughout the month, be sure to stay tuned to Class Dojo, check your email regularly, and follow Garwood's official Facebook page.

We are so excited for the journey ahead and look forward to an inspiring, productive year together. Please never hesitate to reach out if you need anything at all!

Partnering with you,

Gabrielle Hensyel

Garwood Principal

2026-2027 District Calendar:

Click HERE for the school calendar.

Bell Schedule

8:40 am-Families may drop students off
8:55 am-First bell
9:00 am-Tardy bell (students are tardy after 9:00)
3:15 pm- Dismissal bell

Morning Drop off Reminders:

All families must drop students off at the gates unless they're walking, riding the bus, or going through the car drop off line.

K-2nd: North Gate
3rd-5th: South Gate

Parking:

Please do not park on the south side of Garwood Rd where the no parking signs are. We have walkers and bikers that use the paths along the road. Thank you!

School and District Announcements:

Text Y or Yes to 67587 to start receiving school and district announcements such as school closures, delays etc.

Volunteer Orientation Requirements:

We love having parent volunteers in our classrooms and at school events! To ensure the safety and success of all our students, attending one orientation session is mandatory for anyone wishing to volunteer this year—including chaperoning field trips, helping with classroom parties, or assisting during Field Day.
Even if you've volunteered in the past, please join us for one of our upcoming sessions:
- Option 1: September 15th at 9:15 AM
- Option 2: September 17th at 3:30 PM
Note: If you are unable to attend either of these initial times, please contact the main office to speak with someone about making alternative arrangements.
New This Year: To provide more flexibility throughout the year, we will host two additional orientation opportunities—one at the beginning of the second trimester and another at the start of the third trimester.

Cross Country

Dates:

September 23rd, 24th, 30th and October 1st.
8:00-8:40 am

Ages: Kindergarten through 5th Grade
All District Meet: To be determined
Signups and permission slips will be sent home with your student as it gets closer.

New Transportation Policy:

Please read this important letter from the transportation department: Transportation Change.
I know this is a big change for some families and we understand the impact this may have on some families. If you have any questions and/or concerns, please contact the transportation department.

New SRO-Deputy Didier:

As many of you know, Deputy Clauson and his family relocated out of state early this summer. They were such an integral part of our Garwood family, and we will miss them dearly!
Fortunately, we are thrilled to welcome our new School Resource Officer, Deputy Didier. Personally hand-picked by Deputy Clauson himself, Deputy Didier is eager to join our school community and step into this role. Keep an eye out for his full introduction coming soon—please join us in giving him a warm Garwood welcome!

State Mandate-Moment of Silence:

Mr. Massey sent this letter out back in June, but here it is for your reference again: Moment of Silence Letter_June 2026

Advanced Learning Program (ALP) Changes:

Again, Mr. Massey sent out a letter to everyone giving an update on our previous advanced learning program. Here it is for your reference as well: Advanced Learning Letter.

School Supply List: