Family Update
March 20th, 2026
The Educational Service Center of Central Ohio Parent Survey
Hello, as you may know there’s been an increased emphasis on college and career readiness in the state of Ohio. The Ohio Department of Education recently changed its name to include workforce, now known as the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. Additionally, a new indicator has been added to the high school and district state report cards around College, Career, Workforce, Military Readiness also known as CCWMR.
To ensure we are providing the best educational experience for our students at Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools, we have voluntarily partnered with the Educational Service Center of Central Ohio to conduct a voluntary career audit review of our career pathway options for students. The purpose of this career pathway audit is to assess current programming alignment, identify strengths, pinpoint barriers that hinder students from accessing opportunities, and explore new possibilities for both students and staff.
The career audit review process includes collecting feedback from students, staff, and families at GJPS. The survey consists of 10 questions and aims to gather meaningful input from families across East, South, and West Middle Schools. With this in mind, I am reaching out to ask for your support by completing the survey link below to share your insight around your student's career pathway experience thus far at GJPS. The information you share will be valuable as we evaluate current programming and look for opportunities to enhance future experiences, ensuring we best prepare students for life through graduation. Thank you in advance for your time in completing this survey.
Message from our School Counselors
We are thrilled to announce a fantastic new resource for MSW: a partnership with Community Refugee & Immigration Services (CRIS)!
We are fortunate to have Nayeli, a cultural ambassador from CRIS, working with us. Nayeli is a paid intern and a Junior at Otterbein University. She is Salvadorian and speaks Spanish.
If you believe your student could benefit from working with Nayeli, please reach out. We are happy to pair her with any student who could benefit from building a relationship with a Spanish-speaking adult in the building
OST Testing Dates
Our students will be taking the Ohio State Tests (OST) in April. These assessments measure the knowledge and skills students have learned throughout the year, so it is important that students are present and prepared on testing days.
Please try to avoid scheduling appointments during these times if possible. Students who arrive late may not be able to enter the testing room once testing has started.
To help your student do their best, please make sure they:
• Arrive at school on time
• Bring a fully charged Chromebook each day
• Get a good night’s sleep the night before
• Eat a healthy breakfast to help with focus and energy
• Come to school with a positive mindset and ready to try their best
Getting enough sleep and eating a balanced breakfast can help students stay focused and maintain energy during testing.
Students who arrive on time and ready to test will also have the chance to earn prizes and incentives!
Testing Schedule
• April 8 – ELA Part 1
• April 9 – ELA Part 2
• April 21 – Math Part 1
• April 22 – Math Part 2
• April 28 – Science (8th grade only)
Thank you for helping us support your student and ensuring they are ready to show what they have learned!
MINTS for Testing
The PTO is asking for your assistance providing mints for students during OST test days. You can sign up here.
Washington DC
Upcoming School Events
District Dates
Mar. 20, 2026: Conference Comp Day - No School
Mar. 30-April 3, 2026: Spring Break- No School
May 1, 2026: PD Day - No School
May 22, 2026: Last Day of School for Students
May 23, 2026: Class of 2026 Commencement
Heart and Pride
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.