Family Update

We made it through the first full week! Students are beginning to settle in and 6th graders are quickly figuring out how to navigate the hallways, combo locks and the shortest path to class 😃. The honeymoon period is nearing, expectations have been tested. I have seen staff give grace and restorative conversations with students; now it is time to get to work. Our Rise to 5% goal remains and we will be asking your student to lock in Strive for success on all their schoolwork. Please check in with your student daily monitoring their work. Some good starter questions are:

• What did you learn today?
• What do you need help with?
• What was the best part of your day?

We understand that sometimes families face unexpected challenges, and we want you to know that support and resources are available. If your family is in need of resources for food, school supplies, clothing, or other essentials—please don’t hesitate to reach out. We partner with GRIN for supplemental snack bags that can be taken home directly from school by your student.

Our goal is to ensure every student and family feels supported and cared for. All requests are handled with care and confidentiality.

For more information or to connect with resources, please contact your student’s school counselor.

Ms Bonasorte (A-K) bonasortec@gjps.org

Ms Verma (L-Z) vermap@gjps.org

At Gahanna Middle School West, we are committed to creating clear and consistent expectations for students while partnering with families to support student success. Our school-wide expectations are known as the LIONS Way:

• Lead with Respect

• Include Others

• Own Our Actions

• Navigate Safely

• Strive for Success

When a student has difficulty meeting an expectation, staff will first provide a verbal warning and reteach the expected behavior. If the behavior continues, a Strike may be assigned.

Each time your student receives a Strike, you will receive an email notification with information about what occurred. This communication is intended to keep families informed and provide an opportunity to follow up with your student at home.

If a student receives three Strikes within the designated time frame, they will be assigned an After-School Detention. Parents/guardians will also receive an email notification when a detention is assigned.

Our goal is to maintain open communication with families while giving students opportunities to reflect, adjust their behavior, and make positive choices. Students who receive three After-School Detentions may be subject to additional progressive disciplinary consequences.

Mark your calendars!

Date: September 22

Time: 7:00 PM

Location:Middle School South Library

This is an incredible opportunity for students to explore new places, experience different cultures, and gain lifelong skills like independence and confidence. At the meeting, I'll share all the details including what we'll see and do, hands-on learning activities, academic opportunities, trip costs, and how to secure a spot.

I hope to see you there and look forward to sharing how this trip can be a powerful and unforgettable chapter in your child's life!

September 1st/5th: Cross Country

September 2nd/9th: Girls Volleyball

September 3rd: Girls Tennis

September 9th: 7th Grade Football

September 10th: 8th Grade Football

September 7, 2026: Labor Day - No School
September 21, 2026: PD Day - No School
October 19, 2026: Conference Comp Day - No School
October 20, 2026: Staff Work Day - No School
November 9, 2026: PD Day - No School
November 25-27, 2026: Thanksgiving Break - No School
December 23, 2026-January 1, 2027: Winter Break - No School
January 4, 2027: Staff Work Day - No School
January 18, 2027: Martin Luther King Day - No School
February 15, 2027: Presidents Day - No School
March 8, 2027: Staff Work Day - No School
March 9, 2027: PD Day - No School
March 26, 2027: Conference Comp Day - No School
March 29-April 2, 2027: Spring Break- No School
April 30, 2027: PD Day - No School
May 27, 2027: Last Day of School for Students
May 28, 2027: Staff Work Day - No School

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.