Gayle Newsletter

Week 3 - September 1 to September 5

Dear Gayle Middle School Families,

This week, students at Gayle are participating in NWEA MAP Growth testing for English, Math, and Science. These assessments are different from the SOLs. They are not high-stakes tests, but computer-adaptive tools that help us better understand each student’s academic strengths and areas where they may need support.

Testing will take place during students’ regular class periods, and no session will take more than two class periods. The school will follow a regular bell schedule throughout the testing window.

MAP Growth provides valuable insight into where students are now, what growth we can expect by the end of the year, and how we can tailor instruction and support. We encourage you to talk with your child about taking the assessment seriously, but also reassure them that it is not part of their grade, and it will not determine passing or failing. The purpose is to guide our teaching so we can help every student thrive.

We also want to share that our school profile has been updated by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) to reflect last year’s performance data. The official state accreditation rating for our school will be released later this month. You can find the updated school profile linked below in this newsletter.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support.

Sincerely,
Deanna Fierro-Kin
Principal
T. Benton Gayle Middle School

Membership is quick and easy! Simply scan or click the QR code to register and become part of this impactful organization. Together, we can continue to make a positive difference for our Panther Pride!

The first PTA meeting this year will be on 09/02/25 @ 6 PM

Purchase Spirit Wear Here! Click here for details.

Registration Link: https://tbgmspta.givebacks.com/store/items/875037

6th Grade:

Jacob H.

Tillie E.

Olivia A.

7th Grade:

Sola B.

Kevin G.

Brianna H.

8th Grade

Rory S.

Conley D.

Justiniano M.

Morgan N.

This week, Mr. Byrne’s Intermediate Tech Education students tackled a Reverse Engineering group project. Students disassembled various toys, appliances, and other objects donated by families in the England Run North neighborhood. They analyzed the components, determined each part’s function, and explored how the parts worked together to make the machines operate.

Finally, students assembled project boards to display and explain their machines, showcasing both their creativity and technical understanding!

Mr. Belako’s math students put their skills to the test during interactive station activities. Working together in small groups, students practiced problem solving, applied key concepts, and supported one another through hands-on learning. The stations gave every student the chance to engage, collaborate, and show that math is more than numbers. It is teamwork, strategy, and fun.

Students in Mr. Derek Washington’s science class rolled up their sleeves and dove into a hands-on lab activity. Under the guidance of our long-term substitute, who is covering for Mrs. Wilcox Blosser, students worked together to observe, experiment, and apply their scientific knowledge in a real-world context. The lab encouraged curiosity, teamwork, and critical thinking while making science come alive.

The Gayle library is kicking off two great programs, and all GMS students are invited to join in!

This fall, we are continuing our Girls Who Code program before school. Students who participate will have the chance to explore coding, robotics, and 3D printing. The group will meet weekly before school, and members will help choose the topics they want to dive into. A lunchtime information session will be held in the library, and students can sign up through the link in their student email or stop by the library for details.

We are also starting this year’s Trebuchet Contest meetings to prepare for the public library’s “Launch It!” competition. Students will work together after school each week to design and build their own working trebuchets. A lunchtime information session will also be held in the library, and sign-ups are available through student email or by visiting the library.

We are excited to announce the return of Model United Nations (Model UN) for our middle school students!

Model UN is an academic club where students take on the role of diplomats, representing countries at the United Nations. They will research global issues, debate with peers from other schools, and collaborate to find solutions to real-world challenges. Along the way, students will build valuable skills in public speaking, critical thinking, research, and negotiation, all while learning about international affairs and diverse cultures.

Our first conference of the year will be the Stafford County Best Delegates Conference on Saturday, November 1. An intent and permission form will be emailed to students’ school accounts on Monday, August 25. To participate, a parent or guardian must complete the form no later than Friday, September 5.

Please note that participation is limited to 30 students per school. We encourage families to review and submit the form as soon as possible to secure a spot.

Meetings will be held after school, and the school’s point of contact for Model UN is Ms. Rachael Matern (maternrm@staffordschools.net).

We look forward to a fantastic season of diplomacy, collaboration, and global learning!

Parents and guardians can create a Canvas Observer Account to stay connected with their student’s learning.

As an observer, you’ll have read-only access to your student’s courses, allowing you to:

• View course materials and announcements

• Check assignments, due dates, and grades

• See teacher feedback

Observers cannot submit assignments, take quizzes, or participate in class discussions.

Follow these step-by-step directions to set up your account: GMS Parent & Guardian Canvas Account/Observer Creation

This month, Gayle Middle is highlighting suicide prevention through kindness, connection, and supportive activities.

During Suicide Prevention Week, students will participate in events that encourage reaching out, supporting friends, and knowing that help is always available. If you prefer your student not participate in certain activities, or would like a counselor to connect with them individually, please contact:

• Tracy Williams – 6th Grade | williamstd@staffordschools.net
• Virginia Clemo – 7th Grade | clemova@staffordschools.net
• Adam Fulton – 8th Grade | fultonam@staffordschools.net

Together, we can create a safe and caring school community for all students.

Stafford County Public Schools has negotiated discounted pricing for Chromebook Laptops insurance.

We recommend purchasing the insurance within 30 days and before any failure, damage, or loss to the device. The policy only covers losses after the insurance is purchased. The policy does not cover any loss due to intentional damage, abuse or misuse.

Save $100 - $300 every time your child drops, racks or spills liquid on a device. With insurance the cost is about $2/month. The policy covers Accidental Damage, Extended Warranty, Covers lost, or misplaced device including AC Adapters, Covers loss from flood, fire and Vandalism, & Covers theft & burglary of the device including AC Adapters.

Learn more by clicking the image below.

At Gayle Middle School, we recognize students who model our core values through the PRIDE system: Personal Accountability, Respect, Integrity, Determination, and Effort. Students learn what these values look like in action and are celebrated throughout the year for demonstrating them in the classroom and around the school. Our goal is to promote a positive school culture where every student feels valued, supported, and motivated to succeed.

Learn more by clicking the image or link below.

Gayle Middle School PRIDE System

Gayle Middle School is excited to partner with Girls on the Run to offer the Heart & Sole program for middle school girls.

This program is designed to help girls focus on their bodies, brains, hearts, and spirits. Through a combination of exercises, team discussions, and goal setting, participants will:

• Build confidence
• Develop healthy physical and emotional habits
• Learn the importance of overall well-being

The season concludes with a fun, non-competitive 5K Celebration at Fred Nats Park.

For more information and to register, visit: www.gotrpiedmont.org

Bus routes for the 2025–2026 school year are now available in the MyRide K-12 app. Drivers have not yet been assigned, but we encourage all families to download the app to track updates in real time.

If you used MyRide K-12 last year, you do not need to re-register. You do need to re-link your student(s) to make sure your information is correct. [Watch this short video] to learn how to set up or update your account. Staying up to date in the app means you’ll get the latest information on your child’s route and driver.

Daily transportation updates will also be posted on the Bus Delays & Notification Dashboard. If you have an issue, the quickest way to get help is by using our Issuetrak online form.

A few reminders as the school year begins:

• Pickup and drop-off times may change during the first few weeks while routes are adjusted for efficiency.

• Check the app often for the most current pickup, drop-off, and route details.

• Times shown are when the bus will arrive at your child’s stop. High school drop-offs may be slightly earlier, and elementary drop-offs may be slightly later.

• Please be patient as families and drivers get used to new routines.

Be sure to review the 2025–2026 School Year Calendar and X/Y Calendar to help plan ahead and make sure students attend every day.

For safety reasons, we will no longer pull students from class in advance based on a phone call from a parent or guardian. All adults entering the building for early dismissal must present a valid photo ID at the entrance before the student will be called from class.

Please plan your arrival time accordingly, as it may take a few minutes for your child to be dismissed once you arrive. This process helps us ensure that every student is released safely. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

The following is our regular bell schedule. Students are assigned to lunch based on their 3rd Block teacher. If your student has different teachers for 3X and 3Y, their lunchtime may change depending on the day. If you need to drop off a lunch for your student, we recommend doing so at the start of 3rd Block to help ensure it reaches them in time for their scheduled lunch.

For information about applying for Free and Reduced Meals or to learn more about meal prices, visit the Stafford County Public Schools website at www.staffordschools.net/families/nutrition-services.

If your child requires medication during the school day, it must be brought to the clinic by a parent or guardian. All medications must be in their original, labeled container and accompanied by the required Stafford County Public Schools medication form. Students may not carry medications on their own unless specifically authorized for emergency use (such as an inhaler or EpiPen). Please contact our school nurse for any questions or to schedule a drop-off time.

Email: Nurse Fleming – flemingal@staffordschools.net

Our 2025–2026 School Supplies List is now available! Having the right materials helps students start the year organized and ready to learn. You can view and download the list on our school website or through the link shared in your email.

If obtaining supplies is a challenge for your family, please reach out to our main office so we can help. We want every Panther to have what they need for a successful start to the school year!

Need a translated version? Use the links below:

English: https://tinyurl.com/SchoolSuppliesListGMS1

Farsi: https://tinyurl.com/GMSschoolsuppliesfarsi

Spanish: https://tinyurl.com/GMSschoolsuppliesespanol

Dari: https://tinyurl.com/GMSschoolsuppliesdari

Pashto: https://tinyurl.com/GMSschoolsuppliespashto

It’s time to get ready for Panther athletics! Below are the dates, times, and requirements for each sport’s tryouts.

🏈Football Team

Adam B., Rylan A., Levon A., Ace A., Vincent A., Julius A., Braiden B., Divine B., Landon C., Gavin C., Carson E., Jeseiah F., Graysen F., Malik F., Ismail G., William H., Daxton H., Gavin J., Maximus K., Xavier K., Daniel K., Hakim L., Jalal L., Josiah L., Tyson M., Isiiah M., Mason M., Nyjiere N., Ziare N., Bahram N., Kevin P., Jaxson P., Jackson S., Dominic S., Liam S., Peter T., Dimitri W., Turner W., Deon W., Ulani W., Timothy Z.

🏐 Volleyball Team

Jaleesa B., Tatum C., Mackenzie C., Milani C., Brielle D., Claire D., Layla D., Kinsley E., Kinley F., Kaylin G., Marissa H., Adrianna H., Ava K., Taylor L., Bianca M., Kinsley M., Lily N., Brigid O., Grace P. (Manager)

🏑 Field Hockey Team

Eloise M., Rowan G., Madison H., Mackenzie M., Savannah B., Caroline T., Lorelei N., Taylor B., Emma M., Cali F., Rylee S., Lara A., Elsie P., Claire O., Chrysolite A., Elly D., Brianna H., Nyah C., Sophia N., Avery H., Kathryn T., Skylar G., Harper F., Kyleigh S., Hannah S.

Important Requirement for ALL Athletes:
A current VHSL Sports Physical (dated May 1, 2025 or later) must be on file before tryouts. The form was updated in April—please make sure we receive pages 1, 2, and 3.

(Form attached)

Date: Tuesday August 26th & Wednesday August 27th 2025

Pre-order Online: https://shop.imagequix.com/g1001268974

Images Available: Approximately two-three weeks after picture day

Questions about Ordering? Email us at underclass@vosphoto.com

We’re excited to have you volunteer and contribute to our school community! Below is an overview of our volunteer procedures to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all.

Background Check Requirements:

Most volunteers do not need a criminal background check but will go through our RAPTOR system for screening against sex offender registries. Background checks are required only in specific situations.

Volunteers Who Need A Background Check:

• Volunteer coaches.
• Chaperones for overnight field trips.
• Volunteers supervising students independently, without an SCPS staff member present.

Volunteers Who Don’t Need A Background Check (RAPTOR Check Required):

• Helping in the front office, cafeteria, or during events.
• Reading or assisting in classrooms.
• Day field trip chaperones where SCPS staff members are present.

Process For Background Checks:

For the small number of volunteers requiring a background check:

1. Pick up a Fingerprinting Request for Volunteers form, signed by a school administrator.
2. Provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license.
3. Contact Mayra Torres to schedule an appointment.
4. Background checks usually take 48-72 hours but may take up to three weeks in some cases. Please plan accordingly.

Regular attendance is essential for student success. If your child will be absent, please notify the school before 9:00 AM by:

• Calling 540-373-0383

• Emailing commanderas@staffordschools.net

• Submitting the absence online at: https://psp.staffordschools.net/PXP2_Login_Parent.aspx?regenerateSessionId=True

Please include your child’s name, grade, reason for absence, and your name. If the absence is due to illness lasting three or more days, a doctor’s note may be required.

Stay Connected With ParentVUE!

Want an easy way to check grades, track attendance, and stay in touch with teachers? ParentVUE puts everything you need at your fingertips—on your phone, tablet, or computer!

Already Registered Online?:

Good news! Your ParentVUE account was likely activated during registration—no extra steps needed!

Need An Activation Code?:

Contact your student's school. For security reasons, we can’t give codes over the phone, as this code grants access to sensitive student information.

Get Started Today!:

Download the ParentVUE app or visit the website to log in. Stay informed, stay connected!

#ParentVUE #StayConnected #ElevateStafford

For questions or concerns:

Mary Beaven, LCSW – 540.205.0502

Application:

2025 Camp Rainbow Application

Return completed application packets to:

griefsupport@mwhc.com

Date: Sunday, October 5, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Location: Mott’s Run Reservoir, 6600 River Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22407

Camp Rainbow is a special grief retreat for children ages 5–12 who have experienced the loss of a loved one. Offered at no cost to families in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline County, this retreat provides a safe and supportive environment where children can learn healthy, positive ways to cope with their loss—while having fun.

Activities include:

• Art Therapy
• Music Therapy
• Pet Therapy
• Remembrance Activities
• Canoeing
• Group Sharing
• Games & Crafts
• Creative Writing & Journalism

Details:

• Snacks and all activities are provided.
• Parents/guardians must provide transportation for drop-off and pick-up.
• Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to new participants and those in ongoing programming.
• Application Deadline: September 26, 2025

Monday–Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:20 PM (Building Open)

Main Office Phone Number: 540-373-0383

Call or email ahead if you need to stop by:

• Deanna Fierro-Kin, Principal – fierrokind@staffordschools.net

• Dr. Keana Butler, Assistant Principal – butlerks@staffordschools.net

• Katie Hawkins, Assistant Principal – hawkinskd@staffordschools.net

• Joshua Graves, Office Manager – gravesjo@staffordschools.net

• Judy Basluke, Registrar – baslukejl@staffordschools.net

• Tracey Williams, Counseling Director – williamstd@staffordschools.net

Website: https://gms.staffordschools.net/

Facebook: GaylePanthers

Instagram: @gaylepanthers

X: @Gaylepanthers

Phone: 540-373-0383