Good Evening Tiger Family,
As we approach the end of this week, we mark the close of the second quarter and the first semester of the school year. Together, we’ve accomplished so much during the first half of this academic year, and I want to take a moment to sincerely thank each of you for helping make Walker-Grant such a warm and welcoming school community.
Looking ahead, I’m excited about the opportunities 2025 will bring. With your continued support, we’ll help our students grow and achieve even greater things.
Here’s to an incredible year ahead! Now, here are a few important announcements and updates for this week.
Quarter 2 Benchmark Testing
Benchmark testing continues this week. Tomorrow, students will take their Math Benchmark, and on Tuesday, December 17, they will complete their Social Studies Benchmark assessment. The rest of the week will be reserved for make-up testing.
To help your child succeed, please encourage them to review class material and ensure they bring a fully charged laptop to school each day.
ATI @ UMW
This week, the Academy of Technology & Innovation (ATI) at the University of Mary Washington (UMW) will visit on 12/18 during lunch for 8th graders interested in applying. Students will learn about the program in their English classes and can sign up to meet with Dr. Towry to learn more. ATI focuses on computer and data science, integrating subjects like history, art, and math.
For more information and to apply, please use the link attached to this message.
Winter Break
FCPS will be closed for Winter Break from Monday, 12/23/24 to Friday, 1/3/25. Teachers will return to work on Monday, 1/6/25, for a teacher workday. Students will return to school on Tuesday, 1/7/25.
Upcoming Dates to Remember
December 9-20: Q2 Benchmark Testing (Q2 Benchmark Testing Schedule)
December 18: Sp
anish Field Trip to the Regal Cinemas
December 19: Winter Recruitment Concert at HMES & LES (Chorus only, the Orchestra and Band Field Trip has been postponed)
December 20: Q2 Grading Period Ends
December 23 - January 3: Winter Break
January 6: Teacher Workday
January 7: Students return to school, Q3 begins
January 17: Q2 Report Cards issued
School Closing and Delays
As we approach the winter season, we want to ensure that you have access to important information regarding school closures and delays. Please see the attached link to our school division website that provides various ways to stay informed about the weather's impact on our schools.
School Closures and Delays Link
Punctuality and Consistent Attendance
Attendance and punctuality are critical to supporting your child’s success. If your child is healthy, please ensure they are present and on time.
Reading Makes Cents
WGMS is participating in the statewide Reading Makes Cents reading program. This challenge is sponsored by Virginia529, who will be awarding 14 lucky students with a $529 college savings account.What do students need to do? Read (or be read to!) five of the books on the list. See Mrs. Moore in the library for more information. All entries will be due in April.
For more information, please review the linked flyer: Reading Makes Cents Flyer
Bus Behavior
Proper behavior is required on the school bus to ensure everyone’s safety.
Students must:
Follow the driver’s instructions.
Stay seated and keep the aisles clear.
Speak respectfully and avoid disruptions.
Failure to follow bus rules will result in loss of bus privileges.
Intentional Computer Damage on the Rise
Your support in keeping our technology safe is vital. Please be aware families are responsible for up to $560.00 for replacements in these cases. For more information, please review the linked school board policy for more details.
No Play Fighting
At Walker-Grant Middle School, student safety is our priority. We want to remind everyone that “play fighting” is not acceptable. While playful activities are natural, any behavior resembling fighting will not be tolerated.
Pajamas, Slippers, and Blankets Not Allowed at School
Students are not permitted to wear pajamas, slippers, or bring blankets to school. If they arrive with these items, they will be asked to change, and blankets will be collected for pickup at the front office. If your student(s) is in need of warm weather clothing, please reach out to their school counselor.
SpeakUp for Safety
The new SpeakUp for Safety tipline for students in grades 6 through 12 is now live. This confidential resource allows students to report bullying, threats, or safety concerns via email, text, or phone.
If you have an urgent concern, you can call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you witness or have information about a crime or potential crime, you can text "FPD Tip" to 847-411 to send an anonymous tip to Fredericksburg Police.
FCPS Mental Health Resource Website
Please take a moment to explore the FCPS Mental Health Resource Website. It provides helpful information and access to community resources to support our students and families. Your awareness and sharing of these resources can make a difference!
Mental Health Resource Website
Afternoon Pick-Up Procedures
Please notify the school office if your child's afternoon procedure changes. Use the link provided. No changes are accepted by phone, and all changes must be submitted before 2:15 PM.
Athletics
The Walker-Grant boys' basketball season has begun! This week the team will battle in two games:
Monday, December 16: WGMS will play Lousia at home with a 4:30 PM tipoff.
Wednesday, December 18: WGMS will have an away game at Locust Grove with a start time of 4:30 PM.
Thursday, December 19: WGMS will have an away game at King George with a start time of 4:30 PM.
Please remember that students are not permitted to stay after school to attend sports events without a supervising adult.
Spirit Gear
Show your Tiger pride with our school spirit gear! Grab yours today and wear it proudly.
Parent Square
If you haven't already, please activate your ParentSquare account to stay up to date on all of the happenings at WGMS. You can access ParentSquare on any device by downloading the free mobile app or by visiting www.parentsquare.com.
Parent_Guardian - Getting Started Guide (Spanish).pdf
Student Laptop Charger
Is your student in need of a new laptop charger? If so, please use the link attached to this message to purchase a replacement.
Title I
Title I is the largest federal aid program for elementary, middle, and high schools. Through Title I, the federal government designates money to school districts around the country based on the number of students in need in each district. Each district uses its Title I money for extra educational services for children, such as:
Class size reduction
Additional teachers and paraprofessionals
Parent resources
Instructional materials and supplies
Tier 2 and Tier 3 support services
The focus of the Title I program is to ensure all students meet challenging content and achievement standards. Title I also authorizes federal grant programs that provide funds for reading instruction, services to migrant children, services to neglected and delinquent children, comprehensive school reform, and dropout prevention.
All FCPS students in grades K-8 are eligible to receive programs funded through the Title I grant.
School | Principal | Assistant Principals | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
Hugh Mercer Elementary School | Dr. James Snyder — English | Mrs. Malmgren — Title I Ms. Sarah Cook — Math | (540) 372-1115 |
Lafayette Elementary School | Mrs. Courtney Wheeler — Title I & Math | Ms. Pam Diggs Mr. Tony Lewis — English | (540) 310-0029 |
Walker-Grant Middle School | Mr. Stephen Ventura | Mrs. Emma Brown — English | (540) 372-1145 |
Thank You
As always, we are looking forward to another productive and positive week ahead. I hope you all have a safe holiday season. Here's to 2025 — may the New Year bring joy, peace, and success to you and your loved ones!
Go Tigers!