Ticket prices are $5.00 for adults and school aged kids. There's no charge for senior citizens and school employees with a badge. Ticket payments are cash only. No debit or credit cards are taken.

There's NO CHARGE for regular season Girls Softball games and Track Meets. Both regular season events are free to attend.

Dear Gayle Middle School Families,

We hope everyone enjoyed the long weekend! With both Friday and Monday off, we know it was a welcome break for many of our students and families.

This week marks our last full week of regular instruction for some of our classes before state testing begins next week. In addition to testing, we have several exciting events coming up throughout May, including field trips and special programs.

As we move into this busy time of year, we encourage families to help support students by

• Encouraging open communication with teachers if students need help or clarification about assignments or upcoming activities.

• Making sure students are getting plenty of rest each night so they feel their best during testing and events.

We also want to remind everyone: state tests are only one measure of a student’s academic journey. They do not define a student's talents, character, or future success. We are proud of the hard work our students have put in this year, and we believe in their ability to grow, learn, and achieve far beyond what any single test can capture.

As we wrap up the month of April, we would also like to take a moment to highlight our celebration of the Month of the Military Child.

• Thank you to all the families who submitted photos for our Virtual Wall of Honor—we are proud to recognize and celebrate our military-connected students and families.

• We also want to extend our sincere thanks to all families with parents or guardians who are currently serving or have served, even if they weren’t able to participate this year. Your strength and sacrifices are truly appreciated by our entire Gayle community.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we head into a busy and meaningful stretch of the school year!

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

Our 8th grade students received their Panther Promotion Ceremony ticket request forms ! The form is printed on neon green paper and includes important details about this special end-of-year event.

Each student is limited to two tickets for the ceremony. Small children who can sit on an adult's lap do not require a ticket and are welcome to attend.

FORMS DUE BY MAY 14TH

TICKET FORMS HERE

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!

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

Show love to our Bus Drivers! The GM PTA is putting together gift bags to show our appreciation for our amazing school bus drivers! We’re hoping to include disinfectants and a few other thoughtful items to brighten their day. Donations are needed by April 16th, 2025.

👇 [Sign Up Below] 👇:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0944ACAD23A5FAC52-56224563-busdriver#/

Thank you for helping us celebrate the heroes who get our students to and from school safely every day!

We’re calling on our amazing 8th grade parents to help make the end-of-year dance a truly memorable celebration for our students!

Whether it’s donating items, volunteering your time, or helping with decorations, we’d love your support in making this special night unforgettable.

👇 [Sign Up Below] 👇:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0944ACAD23A5FAC52-56236220-8thgrade

We’re still in need of volunteers to help run concessions during our upcoming Girls' Softball and Boys' & Girls' Track meets.

Your time and energy make a big difference and go a long way in supporting our student-athletes!

If you're available to help, we'd love to have you on board—thank you for being part of our Panther community!

👇 [Sign Up Below] 👇:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0944ACAD23A5FAC52-56236513-concessions

This past weekend was packed with exciting opportunities for our talented Living Systems students at Gayle!

A dynamic duo, Virginia L. & Chase R. (above), represented our school at the KidWind Challenge State Competition at James Madison University. After earning 2nd place at Regionals in March for their innovative wind turbine design, they advanced to compete at the state level. While they did not move on to the Worlds competition, they gained valuable experience learning

Meanwhile, students (pictures below) Luciana D., Esperanza H., Matthew O. B., Alexis S., and Caleb W. submitted their creative entries in the district’s “Get Rid of Litter! 3-D Art Contest” hosted at Colonial Forge High School—with over 6,000 student artworks from grades K–12 on display!

A huge congratulations to Esperanza H., who won First Place in the Middle School Division! 🏆

We’re so proud of all our students for their creativity, innovation, and school spirit.

Way to go, Panthers!

Students in Mrs. Renner’s Public Speech and Debate class had the exciting opportunity to hear from Virginia Delegate Joshua Cole, who visited GMS to speak about the prestigious U.S. Senate Page Program!

Delegate Cole shared his insights on the program and inspired students with stories about leadership, civic engagement, and the power of public service. The U.S. Senate Page Program introduces students from diverse backgrounds to unique and challenging experiences in our nation's capital.

Pages play an important role in the daily operations of the Senate, with responsibilities that include:

• Delivering correspondence and legislative materials

• Preparing the Senate Chamber for sessions

• Assisting on the Senate floor during roll call votes and debates

• Supporting senators and staff, and carrying bills and amendments

Thank you, Delegate Cole, for inspiring the next generation of leaders!

T. Benton Gayle Middle School is proud to recognize and celebrate some of our amazing staff members who are reaching milestone years of service with Stafford County Public Schools.

Please join us in congratulating the following individuals for their dedication, commitment, and lasting impact on our students and school community:

⭐ 5 Years of Service

- Mrs. Boyle [pictured]

- Mr. Fulton

- Mrs. Howard

- Mr. Maghan

- Mrs. Perkins

- Mrs. Sherman [pictured]

- Mrs. Waters [pictured]

⭐ 10 Years of Service

- Mr. Utt [pictured]

⭐ 15 Years of Service

- Mr. Johnson

⭐ 25 Years of Service

- Mr. Belako [pictured]

⭐ 35 Years of Service

- Mrs. Craddock

🐾💙 Thank you all for your outstanding contributions and for being a valued part of the Panther Nation! 💙🐾

We’re asking families to donate items for our planned festivities. 💚🖤
Check out the Sign-Up link for ways to contribute and show our amazing teachers some Panther Pride! 🐾

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44ACAC22A4FE3-56126337-teacher

A heartfelt THANK YOU to all students, staff, and families for showing your support during Purple Up Spirit Week!

By wearing purple and participating in daily spirit activities, we stood together in honor of our brave military families and military-connected students. Your enthusiasm and unity helped us celebrate the Month of the Military Child throughout April in a meaningful and memorable way.

Your support reminds us that at Gayle Middle School, we are stronger together—Panther Proud and Military Strong!

Gayle Middle School is starting a Garden Club! We want to grow plant starters for our community and we need your help. Meetings will commence on Monday mornings before school this spring to help plant and get our garden beds ready for warm weather.

We will meet before school on Mondays from 8:10am - 9:00am.. Students will need their own transportation to school and parent permission to attend. This will be an on-going club and is open to anyone. No experience is necessary and the program is completely free of charge.

Requirements To Attend:

Students should return the signed permission slip to the Gayle Library. Participating students can enter the Gayle Library on Mondays through the Library side entrance (Door 16). At the end of the program, students can go to their first block classes. We hope to see you there!

Club Meeting Dates:

Time of Scheduled Event: 8:10am - 9:00am

Monday, April 28th, 2025

Monday, May 5th, 2025

Monday, May 12th, 2025

Monday, May 19th, 2025

Gayle Garden Club is sponsored by the GMS Library. If you have any questions, you can contact Mr. Nathan Sekinger, Gayle Middle School Librarian.

Email: sekingernc@staffordschools.net

Phone: (540) 373-0383

Families, we will use the “Remind” platform to share information about this club to parents; please sign up: https://www.remind.com/join/f7h8bff

📅 Date: April 10th, April 17th, and April 24th, 2025

🕓Time: 4:00pm – 5:30pm

📍 Address: 550 Courthouse Rd, Stafford, VA 22554

Tryouts will take place on:

📅 Date: May 6th, 2025 – May 8th, 2025
🕟 Time: 4:30pm – 7:00pm

If you’re looking to join the Colonial Forge Cheer Team, now is your chance! Cheer conditioning is about to be underway!

Reminder: Students must have a completed Virginia High School League (VHSL) Physical Examination form in order to try out. For any questions, please contact Mrs. Berry at Colonial Forge High School.

Email: berrycm@staffordschools.net

🎉📣💙 Good luck to all aspiring cheerleaders! 🎉📣💙

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.

As we prepare for the upcoming school year, we want to inform you of an important change to how bus transportation and routing procedures will be managed.

In the past, transportation was automatically assigned to all students. Beginning with the 2025–2026 school year, families will now need to opt in if they would like their student(s) to receive bus transportation.

What This Means for You:

If you do not complete the transportation selection process, your student will not be automatically routed for bus service at the start of the school year.

To request transportation for your student(s), you must complete the Transportation Opt-In Selection Form by May 1, 2025.

• A separate form is required for each child in your household.

• You will need your student’s ID number to complete the form.

We understand that plans can change. Your selection should reflect your transportation needs for the first 60 days of school. If your needs change, you may update your transportation selection by contacting your student’s school directly.

Please Note:

• Students who receive transportation as a related service through an IEP or 504 Plan will automatically be routed for bus service.

• Students in a designated walking zone or those who purchase a high school parking pass will not be eligible for transportation services.

This new opt-in process will help us build more efficient bus routes, reduce ride times, and improve overall transportation services. By aligning routes to actual ridership, we can better support our families, staff, and drivers with on-time and reliable service.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact your child’s school administrator.

Thank you for your cooperation and partnership!

Opt-In Transportation Form:

www.staffordschools.net/transportationoptin

Stafford County Public Schools invites all families to attend a powerful and informative session with national expert Sarah Breedin Chase, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Psychology, St. Mary's College of Maryland, and Falmouth School Board Member, Stafford County Public Schools.

🧠 Event: Your Child’s Brain On The Internet
🎤 Speaker: Sarah Breedin Chase, Ph.D.
📍 Location: Howell Branch Library, 806 Lyons Boulevard
📅 Date: Wednesday, April 24, 2025
🕡 Time: 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Dr. Chase will share insights on:

• How digital media affects your child’s brain

• Understanding screen time’s impact on behavior and learning

• Practical strategies for managing screen use at home

This free community event is open to all Stafford County families. If your child uses digital devices, plays video games, or is on social media, this session is for you! Let’s work together to foster healthy screen habits and a balanced approach to technology.

The Gilder Lehrman Institute recognizes exceptional Kindergarten through Grade 12 educators who bring history to life in the classroom. Each year, thousands of teachers are nominated by students, parents, colleagues, and community members, highlighting the vital work they do. Nominations for the 2025 History Teacher of the Year are open through April 30th, 2025.

How To Nominate A Teacher:

To nominate a teacher, simply visit the Gilder Lehrman website and submit a short statement about why your nominee deserves to be honored. Anyone familiar with the teacher’s work can make a nomination. All nominated teachers will receive instructions to complete their application for consideration.

Weblink: www.gilderlehrman.org

State Winners Recognition Information:

State winners will be awarded $1,000, access to a rich archive of classroom resources, and special recognition at a local ceremony.

Shine a light on a deserving educator—submit your nomination today!

IT’S BACK! The Stafford Education Foundation (SEF) Hippity Hop 5K returns this April 2025!

After a brief hiatus, The Stafford Education Foundation (SEF) 5K is making a grand comeback! Join us on Saturday, April 19th, 2025, at John Lee Pratt Memorial Park for an exciting day of fun, fitness, and community support!

This event includes the following:

🏃🏻‍♀️ 5K Race (9:00am): Challenge yourself on a beautiful course!

🏃🏻‍♂️ 1-Mile Fun Run (8:40am): Perfect for all ages!

🥚 Tot Dash & Egg Hunt (8:30am): A fun-filled experience planned by the LEAPS Center students for our youngest participants!

By participating, you’re directly supporting SEF’s mission to create opportunities for Stafford County students and educators. Let’s run, walk, and give back together! Tag your running buddy & spread the word!

📆 Save The Date: April 19th, 2025

📍 Location: John Lee Pratt Memorial Park, 120 River Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22405

*** Note ***: This event is not a Stafford County Public Schools (SCPS) event. This event is sponsored by the Stafford Education Foundation.

Register Today!

https://www.thestaffordeducationfoundation.com/5k-run

#SEF5K #RunForEducation #StaffordStrong #SEFSupportsEducation #EggHuntFun #CommunityEngagement

Explore the Future of Medicine at Operation Health Sciences!

Join us for a three-day summer camp where middle school students can dive into the world of health sciences. From hands-on activities to interactive learning about the diverse fields within healthcare, this camp is designed to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to discover, explore, and ignite your passion for health sciences.

📆 Date: Monday, June 9th, 2025 - Wednesday, June 11th, 2025

📍 Location: Stafford County Center, 25 Center Street, Stafford, VA 22554

🕘 Time: 9:00am - 2:00pm

The connection between the brain, body, and nervous system is like an intricate, high-speed communication network. By diving into some fun anatomy explorations, we can uncover how these systems work together to keep us alive, alert, and active.

Diving into diverse careers in health sciences through immersive, hands-on experiences is a great way to discover the many exciting fields that contribute to healthcare and well-being. Health sciences offer a wide range of opportunities, each one requiring specialized knowledge and skills.

Learning about heart health, CPR, first aid, and how to check vital signs is incredibly valuable knowledge that can help you respond to emergencies effectively and take steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Healthcare careers have a profound impact on the future of medicine by influencing how care is delivered, improving patient outcomes, and driving innovations in medical practices.

Don’t miss out on Operation: Health Sciences Summer Camp! While registration isn’t required, it’s encouraged to make sure you have all the details and benefits. Simply scan the QR code below to sign up and stay informed.

– Coming This Summer! –

Get ready for an unforgettable experience! The 4th Annual Smart Community STEM Camp will once again be hosted at the University of Mary Washington from July 21st–25th, 2025.

📡 Learn to fly drones
🎮 Compete in e-sports with your peers
🎓 Earn your FAA TRUST Certification
💻 Dive into the world of tech during this week-long, overnight adventure!

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to explore STEM like never before.

Spots are limited — sign up today! You have multiple ways to register:

• Scan the QR code provided.
• Visit: https://shorturl.at/mg94s
• Email: akindred81@gmail.com

Get ready to take your tech skills to the next level! 💻🎮📡

Our Favorite Contest Is Back!

We’re inviting military-connected students from around the world — every branch, every grade (Pre-Kindergarden–12) — to share their unique perspectives through art, photography, music, writing, animation, video, and more.

Why Enter?

• Inspire the World: Show us what it means to be a military-connected child through your creativity.

• Win Prizes!: Awards by grade level and national recognition await our winners.

• Shine on Stage: Selected artists will be invited to the MCEC Global Training Summit in Washington, DC this July 2025!

How To Enter:

Submissions are open now through April 30, 2025 – so we encourage you or the military-connected student in your life to apply soon, dream big, and create boldly.

Ready to get started? Download the entry form and contest details today!

https://militarychild.org/programs-and-initiatives/the-call-for-the-arts/call-for-the-arts-contest/#top-content

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

Consent forms are downloadable here or available in school clinics in the following languages:

English, Spanish, Arabic, Farsi, French, Japanese, Pashto, Ukrainian, Urdu, Vietnamese.

Center for Disease Control (CDC) Vaccine fact sheets are available in multiple translations:

Tdap vaccine information: https://www.immunize.org/vaccines/vis/tdap/#Current-Translations

Meningococcal ACWY vaccine information:

https://www.immunize.org/vaccines/vis/menacwy/#Current-Translations

HPV information sheets: https://www.immunize.org/vaccines/vis/hpv/#Current-Translations

To ensure safety & speed up entry, only clear bags (12" x 6" x 12") or 1-gallon plastic bags are allowed at events.

⛔ What Not To Bring: ⛔

- No Purses

- No Backpacks

- No Large Bags

🆗 What Is Accepted: 🆗

Medical Exceptions Are Allowed Per Principal/AP Admin Approval.

Full Policy Website Link: https://tinyurl.com/SCPSclearbagpolicy

#SCPSClearBagPolicy #EventSafety #PantherPride

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

Facebook: GaylePanthers

Instagram: @gaylepanthers

X: @Gaylepanthers

Phone: 540-373-0383