Happy Sunday GW Families,
On this Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we reflect on one of his most powerful messages about education: “Intelligence plus character—that is the true goal of education.” This quote closely aligns with our mission as an intermediate school serving students in grades 4–6. Our goal is not only to help students grow academically, but also to cultivate kindness, responsibility, perseverance, and respect—qualities that help them succeed in school and in life.
At school, we work toward this goal by strengthening our core teaching practices, thoughtfully using technology to support learning, and simplifying systems so we can focus on what matters most: your children. Academic learning and character development go hand in hand, and we are committed to intentionally supporting both.
This week, students will also be participating in the NWEA MAP assessments. These assessments are an important tool that helps us understand where students are academically and how much growth they have made over time. The results allow teachers to plan instruction more strategically, personalize learning, and ensure students are receiving the right level of challenge and support. We appreciate your partnership in helping students approach these assessments with a positive mindset and their best effort.
How Families Can Support This Work at Home
Here are three practical ways you can support the development of both intelligence and character at home:
Encourage a Growth Mindset
Talk with your child about effort, perseverance, and learning from mistakes. Remind them that challenges—whether on an assessment or in daily learning—are opportunities to grow.
Connect Learning to Character
Ask your child not only what they learned each day, but how they showed responsibility, kindness, or perseverance. These conversations reinforce the importance of character alongside academics.
Support Healthy Routines During Assessment Week
Ensure your child gets plenty of rest, eats a healthy breakfast, and arrives at school on time. These small supports help students feel confident, focused, and ready to do their best.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support. Together, we are working to develop students who are academically strong, grounded in character, and prepared for future success.
With appreciation and partnership,
Ms. Milliner - Proud Principal
