Grizzly News You Can Use

Dear Mountain Gap Families,

As we begin a new month, we are filled with excitement and hope for all that lies ahead. Each new month brings fresh opportunities for learning, growth, and connection, and we are proud of the effort our students show each day.

We also want to remind families that regular attendance plays an important role in student success. Being present each day helps students stay connected to learning and build strong routines that support growth over time.

Thank you to our families and community for your continued support and partnership. Together, we look forward to a month full of potential as we work toward success for every child.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support.❤️🩶

Warm regards,

~Principal Warren

Rooted in Strength. Driven by Excellence.

We are excited to celebrate our students’ academic growth at the Middle of the Year (MOY)! In reading, 70% of our students are currently performing at or above grade level, reflecting strong progress and consistent effort. In math, 57% of students are performing at or above grade level, with encouraging growth across all placement levels.

This progress is a testament to the hard work of our students and the dedication of our teachers, who continue to use data to guide instruction and provide targeted support for every learner. As we move into the second half of the school year, our focus remains on growth, confidence, and continued learning.

Way to go, Grizzlies! You’re all that and a bag of chips!

Throughout February, students will engage in age-appropriate lessons and activities highlighting important people, contributions, and stories that have shaped our nation. These learning experiences support our ongoing focus on character, understanding, and respect for others.

• Tues. February 3
• Madison County Spelling Bee
• Thurs. February 5
• Redstone Deposit Day

• Fri. February 6
• Duty Free Lunch
• Wed. February 11
• Spring Pictures
• Fri. February 13
• Half Day Dismissal at 11:30 a.m.
• Mon. February 16
• President's Day: No School
• Tues. February 24
• PTA Meeting/Black History Program (More information for elementary participation coming).

We want your mornings to run smoothly and safely! Please keep the following in mind:

🔒 Safety First

• Drive slowly and stay off your phone in the car line.

• Do not drop students off before 7:30 AM—staff supervision begins at that time.

🧒 Pre-K Drop-Off

• Pre-K parents must park and sign in at the front door entrance (lower office).

⬆️ Keep the Line Moving

• Pull as far forward as possible to allow more cars into the line.

• Staff members (see numbers on map) will be stationed along the sidewalk to assist.

🎒 Be Ready to Go

• Have backpacks, lunchboxes, and jackets within reach.

• Staff will help students with their belongings once they exit the car.

🚫 Stay in Your Car

• Do not exit your vehicle in the drop-off line.

• If you need to walk your child in or visit the office, please park in a designated area.

⏰ Late Arrival

• Arriving after 8:00 AM? Please walk your child to the Welcome Center to sign in.

New Weapon Detection Systems – Beginning October 2024

Starting in October 2024, all elementary schools, including Mountain Gap, was equipped with Weapon Detection Systems as part of HCS’s commitment to campus safety.

What to Expect:

• All students will be required to remove laptops and walk through the detection system during morning entry.

• The process is designed to be quick, seamless, and stress-free.

• This is part of an ongoing safety initiative from the 2024–2025 school year.

• All guest will also be expected to go through this system when visiting.

We appreciate your support as we continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of all students and staff.

After a full day of learning, our goal is to ensure every student gets home safely and efficiently. Please help us by reviewing these important guidelines:

📌 Daily Dismissal Plans

• Make sure your child’s teacher knows how they’ll get home each day.

• Emergency transportation changes must be called in to the Welcome Center—preferably by noon.

🧒 Pre-K Pick-Up

• Pre-K dismisses before the rest of the school.

• Pre-K parents may begin parking after 1:45 PM along the curb or in the parking lot.

• If you’re also picking up a K–5 student, please pull all the way forward while waiting for the 2:30 PM release.

🚦 K–5 Pick-Up Procedures

• Please park along Versailles Drive and wait for a staff member to direct you into the line at 2:30 PM.

• Be courteous to our neighbors—do not block driveways.

🚘 Display Your Car Number

• Your child’s car number should be clearly visible on the rearview mirror or dashboard.

• Numbers will be called from the street, and students will be ready for pickup at the loading area.

🙋‍♀️ Stay in Your Vehicle

• A staff member will assist your child and their belongings into your car.

• If you need to buckle them in, please pull forward to the “Buckle Up” area so the line can keep moving smoothly.

We have three groups of walkers at Mountain Gap Elementary. Please review your child's route and talk with them about safe walking habits before school begins.

🟢 Green Shoe Walkers

• Travel north on Versailles Drive, alongside the playground.

⚫ Black Shoe Walkers

• Travel south on Versailles, beside the gym and across the blacktop.

• May turn left or right onto Mountain Gap Road or cross the road.

• A crossing guard or HPD officer will be stationed at Versailles & Mountain Gap for safety.

🐾 Cub Walkers

• Wait in the cafeteria until 3:00 PM, when they are picked up by older siblings from Mountain Gap Middle.

• They then walk home with their middle school sibling.

✅ Safety Reminders
Please remind your child to:

• Use the correct route

• Walk with a group, when possible

• Follow all crosswalk and adult instructions

• Avoid running or horseplay

Your support helps ensure a safe journey home for all of our walkers!

Students in 3rd–5th grade are welcome to ride bikes or scooters to and from school.

Safety First!

• Please remind your child to wear a helmet, use designated crosswalks, and follow all safety rules.

• Riders should walk their bikes or scooters while on campus.

At dismissal, bike and scooter riders will line up and exit with our Black Shoe Walkers.

Bus route information for the 2025-26 school year will become visible in the PowerSchool Parent Portal beginning on July 21, 2025.

This year, all students at Mountain Gap Elementary and Middle will receive free breakfast and lunch each day!

🥪 A la carte items such as chips, Rice Krispies treats, ice cream, and more may be available for purchase.

No forms or applications are needed—just bring an appetite!

Stay informed and involved in your child’s academic progress all year long!

📊 Grades are available through PowerSchool.
Parents and students can log in to view:

• Current grades

• Attendance records

• Report cards

• Teacher comments

Be a part of the Mountain Gap community by joining our Parent Teacher Association (PTA)!

When you join the PTA, you’re supporting:

• Student events & enrichment activities

• Teacher appreciation & classroom support

• Campus improvements & school spirit

Whether you have a little time or a lot, your involvement matters—and makes a big impact!

Stay connected, get involved, and help make Mountain Gap the best it can be!

📍 Welcome Center: 256.428.7720
📘 Facebook: Mountain Gap Schools

📧 Email Contacts:

• Principal: Ms. Warren – angelear.warren@hsv-k12.org

• Assistant Principal: Ms. Elliard – kendra.elliard@hsv-k12.org

• Registrar/Administrative Assistant: Mrs. Lucente – lisa.lucente@hsv-k12.org

• Counselor: Mrs. Baker – anna.christian@hsv-k12.org

• Library/Media Specialist: Mrs. Turner – melissaann.turner@hsv-k12.org

• Clerical/Attendance: Mrs. Steves – kara.steves@hsv-k12.org

• Cafeteria Manager: Mrs. Beshears – wynona.beshears@hsv-k12.org

• School Nurse (Nurse Casey): grace.casey@hsv-k12.org