Walker-Grant Middle School

Good Afternoon Tiger Family!

Last week may have been unpredictable, but our commitment to our students remains strong! As we head into another week—whatever the weather brings—let’s stay positive and focused on learning together.

Now here are a few important announcements and updates for the week ahead:

President's Day

Reminder on Monday, February 17, school is closed for the President’s Day holiday.

Remote Learning for Inclement Weather

With possible winter weather ahead, FCPS may implement remote learning days if schools close due to inclement weather. On these days, students will be expected to complete assignments from home.

Key Information:

• Asynchronous learning — students will work independently.

• Teachers will post meaningful assignments on Canvas and share details via Parent Square.

• Assignments will focus on Q3 standards.

• All students are expected to complete the given assignments and will have the opportunity to connect with teachers for support and assistance.

• Teachers will hold two hours of office hours during the regular school day (7:35 AM – 2:40 PM) to assist students. Links will be shared via TEAMS and Parent Square.

Thank you for your support in keeping students engaged.

WIDA Testing

This week, we’ll continue with WIDA testing to support our English Language Learners. Let’s work together to encourage all students to do their best! If your student receives ELL services, they will participate in this important evaluation. Should you have any questions about the WIDA ACCESS test, please feel free to contact your student's ESOL teacher.

Tiger Paw Academy

Tiger Paw Academy will continue this week. Transportation will be provided for participating students. Please note that only those who have received an invitation and returned their signed permission slips may attend.

ASPIRA Afterschool Tutoring

ASPIRA Afterschool Tutoring is off to a great start and will continue next week! This is a fantastic opportunity for our selected students to learn, grow, and reach new heights. Please remember that only students who have been selected and submitted their permission slips may attend.

Have questions? Contact Dr. Noboa at abdinnoboa@comcast.net.

After School Clubs

Clubs will meet this Friday 2/21, weather permitting. Students who have been assigned to a club may attend.

Let's Win Together! Join Our February Behavior Challenge!

Families let’s work together to help our students shine! The grade level with the fewest discipline referrals by February 28 will earn a pizza party—every student plays a role in making it happen!

You can support by encouraging your child to make positive choices, stay referral-free, and stay on top of their assignments.

With your partnership, we can make February a month of success and celebration for our students. Let’s do this together!

Join the Mission to Save Lives with the American Heart Challenge

Dear Tiger families we’ve just kicked off our American Heart Challenge, and we’re excited to have your support! This is a great opportunity to make a difference while having fun. For more details, please check the information linked to this email message.

Here's how to join:

A new date will be shared soon, and we look forward to your participation when we reschedule this exciting event.

Thank you for your understanding, and please stay tuned for further updates!

Upcoming Dates to Remember

2/17: President's Day Holiday — No school for students and staff
2/3 - 2/28: WIDA Testing
2/18 - 2/20: Track & Field Team Tryouts — Must have a current VHSL Sports Physical
2/21: After school clubs meeting
2/24 - 3/6: Quarter 3 Benchmark Testing
2/27: PTO Spirit Night @ Sweet Frog (Eagle Village)
3/3: March School Board Meeting @ WGC at 7:30 PM

School Closing and Delays

We encourage all families to stay updated on school closures and delays. For detailed information and resources, please visit the FCPS website. 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. Attendance Notes

Bus Behavior

Proper behavior is required on the school bus to ensure everyone’s safety. Failure to follow bus rules will result in loss of bus privileges.

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. Transportation Form

Intentional Computer Damage on the Rise

Please partner with us in encouraging students to handle their laptops with care. Families may be responsible for up to $560 if devices are intentionally damaged. For more information, please review the linked school board policy for more details. Policy JN

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: https://fxbg.link/3w9Z2Hv

School Safety

At WGMS safety is our top priority. I want to remind everyone that “play fighting” is not acceptable. Any behavior resembling fighting will not be tolerated.

School Dress Code Reminders

Students are not permitted to wear pajamas, slippers, or bring blankets to school. If students arrive with these items, they will be asked to change, and blankets will be collected for parents to pick up in the front office. If your student(s) is in need of warm weather clothing, please reach out to their school counselor.

Athletics

WGMS Tigers are Championship Bound!

We are thrilled to announce that the WGMS Boys Basketball Team has earned a spot in the Battlefield Middle School Athletic Conference Championship! The opponent and game details are still being finalized, but we'll share updates as soon as they're confirmed. Stay tuned and get ready to cheer on our Tigers!

Reminder: Students may not stay after school for sporting events unless supervised by an adult.

Spirit Gear

Show your Tiger pride with our school spirit gear! Grab yours today and wear it proudly. WGMS Spirit Gear

Track Team Tryouts

Calling all 6th, 7th, and 8th graders! If you love to run, jump, or throw, come try out for the track team—no experience needed!

Tryout Dates: Tuesday, February 18 – Wednesday, February 20
Sign-Up & Info: Stop by the front office for the sign-up sheet and informational flyers. 
Important: Athletes must have a current VHSL sports physical on file to participate in tryouts. 

Don’t miss this chance to be part of the team!

Poppin' Popcorn Fundraiser for WGMS Band

Attention families, the W-GMS Band is hosting a Poppin' Popcorn fundraiser, and need your support! With every bag sold, you'll be helping our talented students achieve great things—like purchasing new instruments and funding exciting band activities.

Visit our fundraiser page to check out the delicious popcorn options: Poppin' Popcorn Fundraiser

Let’s pop our way to success! Thank you in advance for supporting the WGMS Band!

ParentSquare

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 (English).pdf

Parent_Guardian - Getting Started Guide (Spanish).pdf

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

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.