Re: GMS Weekly Newsletter 9/25/26

The Principal’s Post 

As we move through the school year, we want to partner with families in helping our students become more responsible and independent learners.

Middle school is an important time for students to begin taking ownership of their choices, responsibilities, and schoolwork. This means students should be learning to keep track of assignments, check ProgressBook, ask teachers questions, make up missed work, and communicate when they need help.

We know students will make mistakes, forget things, and need reminders. That is part of growing up. Our goal is not to expect students to do everything on their own, but to gradually move from adult dependence to student independence.

We also ask families to resist the urge to immediately solve every problem for their child. Instead, encourage your child to first think: What can I do? Who can I ask? What is my responsibility?

At school, we will continue to support, teach, remind, and hold students accountable. At home, your encouragement and expectation that your child take ownership will make a tremendous difference.

Together, we can help our students become confident, responsible Smithies who are prepared not only to be successful in school, but also to take responsibility for themselves beyond middle school.

Thank you for partnering with us!

-Mrs. Shutt

GMS SCHOOL COUNSELOR CORNER The Experiences That Stick With Them This week our 6th graders went to outdoor education, and next month we will be meeting about next year's trip to Washington, D.C. Experiences like these are the ones students often remember long after they've forgotten a specific test, grade or homework assignment — the campfire, the cabin they stayed in, the monument that finally made a history lesson click. Middle school is only three years, but it's a formative one. The friendships formed on a cabin floor at 11pm, the moment a student tries something outside their comfort zone, or the pride of navigating a new city with their class — these become part of how students remember "who I was in middle school." Try this at home: Before a trip, ask your student what they're most looking forward to (or most nervous about) — it opens the door for them to process it either way. Afterward, ask for their favorite moment rather than just "did you have fun?" — specific memories tend to surface real stories. A note for families: Whether it's outdoor ed, the D.C. trip, a football tailgate event, or just an ordinary lunch with friends, these shared experiences are part of what makes middle school memorable. If cost or logistics are ever a barrier to your student participating, please reach out — we want every student to have the chance to be part of these moments.

PICTURE RETAKES

Sylvart will be back on Wednesday, September 30 for picture retakes.  Any one who wasn’t photographed previously will need to have their picture taken on Wednesday. And anyone wanting a retake, should bring their original prints with them and return them when they have their retake photo taken. 

ARCHERY CLUB

Waynedale Archery Club has officially begun and is inviting area families to join! This is led by long time Southeast Local physical education teacher and archery instructor Chad Lorentz. They meet Tuesdays and Thursdays at John R Lea gymnasium from 5:00-7:00 PM (9130 Dover Road, Apple Creek, OH 44606). Parents and students are welcome!  All equipment is provided, just complete the google form to register.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

9/30/26- Picture Retakes

9/30/26- Homecoming Parade/Bonfire

10/12/26- Sacred Choir Concert

10/14/26- Parent Teacher Conferences- DC Parent Meeting

10/15/26- 2 Hour Early Release

10/16/26- NO SCHOOL