GPS Update
May 15, 2024
Updates From Our Technology Department
A New Website
In the coming days, we'll be launching a completely redesigned Grafton Public Schools website! We're moving away from our current Blackboard content management system to a fresh, user-friendly website powered by Edlio. Don't worry, all the resources you rely on will still be readily available, but with a modern look and feel that's easy to navigate.
To make the transition seamless, we've placed commonly used links, like the district calendar and frequently requested forms, in prominent locations on the new website. We'll also continue to maintain our dedicated Student, Staff, and Parent Links pages for quick access. And the best part? The new Edlio website is fully mobile-friendly, allowing you to access information on the go, directly from your phone or tablet.
Enhanced Communication with BrightArrow
We'll also be transitioning from the SwiftK12 notification system to BrightArrow, a powerful new mass communication solution. BrightArrow offers several advantages:
Seamless Integration: BrightArrow integrates seamlessly with PowerSchool, allowing us to send targeted messages based on student grade level, school building, or specific programs. This means you'll receive the most relevant information for your child's educational journey.
Convenience: Similar to SwiftK12, BrightArrow allows the District and schools to post important documents, including student letters, report cards, progress reports, and results from assessments like MCAS and Star, directly into the secure PowerSchool Parent Portal for easy and secure access.
Flexibility: You can customize your notification preferences, choosing which communication methods (text, email, calls) you prefer for different categories of messages.
We believe BrightArrow will significantly enhance communication between our schools and families. Look out for more information about BrightArrow and explore the new website in the coming weeks.
In the meantime, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Technology Department at techsupport@grafton.k12.ma.us.
We appreciate your continued partnership in your child's education!
Shaping the Future
Your Voice Matters in Our AI in Education Survey!
The newly formed AI Task Force is focusing on the exciting potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in our schools. As technology continues to evolve, we're exploring how AI can personalize learning, enhance student engagement, and support educators.
To ensure we're making informed decisions for the benefit of all our students, we need your input! Please take a few minutes to complete our short survey on AI in education. Your voice will help us chart a course that leverages the power of AI while prioritizing the unique needs of our school community.
The survey is available online by clicking HERE and will be open until 5/22/24. Thank you for your continued partnership in shaping a bright future for our students!
A Rising Star in Math Olympiad
School Spotlight: North Grafton Elementary School
NGES Embarks on a Reading Adventure
Welcome to the Tower of Books Reading Challenge in the Grafton School District! The ToB Challenge kicked off in January and will continue throughout the year. Its aim is to cultivate a passion for reading while fostering connections within our entire community through literature. As part of this challenge, students track their class's progress on a graph, promoting teamwork and friendly competition among peers. Witnessing their "Towers" grow taller each month is a source of excitement for them! Additionally, we introduce new all-school challenges regularly, with the current focus being the “Shelfie Challenge”. Students are encouraged to share a "shelfie" featuring their favorite book, sparking creativity and a love for reading. Once a challenge is completed, parents can capture the moment with a snapshot and share it with us for display! Currently, all five challenges are underway! Students have the flexibility to tackle them in sequence, revisit a favorite challenge, or mix things up as they please. Most recently, we unveiled the final challenge, inviting students to create their own books! These creations are proudly showcased in our NGES library for everyone to enjoy. The Tower of Books Challenge exemplifies our collaborative efforts between home and school. We invite all members of our community to embark on this literary adventure with us!
Summer Learning
Summer Reading Passport is now GATOR QUEST!
Introducing Gator Quest, the exciting Summer Learning Program for elementary students in Grafton! Dive into a world of discovery as your child explores various activities on our Padlet. Encourage participation and record completed activities on the Gator Quest Tally Sheet. As the summer winds down, tally up your child's achievements – for every ten activities completed, they earn a raffle ticket! Enter the raffle by submitting your child's name and ticket count through a short Google Form. The more activities completed, the greater the chance to win fantastic prizes! Join us for a summer filled with learning and fun through Gator Quest! More information can be found here.
NSES & MSES Families: Join Us Tonight!
If you're planning to attend the Family Night, please RSVP here!