I’m incredibly proud of the way our students and staff are coming together to support one of their own. Friday night, Houston High School took on the $3,030 in 3 Challenge to raise funds for Make-A-Wish Mid-South in honor of a fellow student. The goal was to raise $3,030 in three minutes—but our Mustangs went above and beyond, raising an incredible $10,000!

Seeing everyone decked out in Gator Strong t-shirts and gold ribbons at Friday Night's game truly reminds me how GMSD is building better citizens and compassionate community members. Please read below to find out about some important ways to provide us with your feedback along with several highlights of our wonderful staff and students.

Jason Manuel,

Superintendent

The September 19th School Board Meeting began with the Celebration of Outcomes, an Oscars-style event recognizing teachers whose students ranked in the top three in the state on TCAP and EOCs. GMSD excelled in 21 of 25 tested areas, making for an exciting start.

Listen to their powerful messages by following the links below:

• 3rd Grade ELA (1st place): Dianne Stovall, DO
• 3rd Grade Math (1st place): Ashley Rotenberry, FHES
• 3rd Grade Science (1st place): Emily Mashour, DES
• 4th Grade ELA (2nd place): Layla Zaravar, DES
• 4th Grade Math (1st place): Anna Brignole, FES
• 4th Grade Science (1st place): Ashley McInnis, RES
• 5th Grade ELA (1st place): Mary Beth Etheridge, FHES
• 5th Grade Math (1st place): Shelli Gibbs, FES
• 5th Grade Science (1st place): Laura Coleman, DES
• 6th Grade ELA (2nd place): Dakota Culver, HMS
• 6th Grade Math (1st place): Amy Gunnell, HMS
• 6th Grade Science (2nd place): Kathryn Lee, HMS
• 8th Grade ELA (2nd place): Alex Moorhead, RES
• 8th Grade Social Studies (3rd place): Alicia Breen, HMS
• Biology (3rd place): Jessica Minton, HHS
• Check out the PHOTOS from the event here.

After the celebrations, the board unanimously approved several items, including policy revisions, purchases, and a budget amendment. The Houston High Track and Field Renovation, including new home bleachers, VIP seating section and press box upgrades, was also approved!

At GMSD, we are committed to nurturing not only academic success, but also civic responsibility in our students. Last week, we proudly celebrated Freedom Week, engaging students across all grade levels with activities that highlight the importance of the U.S. Constitution and the principles of citizenship. From thoughtful classroom discussions to hands-on projects, our schools focused on helping students understand the foundations of our democracy.

At Riverdale Elementary, students demonstrated their civic pride by placing star stickers on a Constitution poster, symbolizing their role as active citizens. Over at Germantown Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), daily discussions during morning meetings encouraged students to reflect on the meaning of the Constitution. Farmington Elementary first graders got creative by designing American flags and writing about what it means to be a good citizen.

Meanwhile, Houston High School is working toward earning the prestigious Governor’s Civics Seal, which recognizes schools that promote civic education across all grade levels. To achieve this, Houston is aiming for 100% of seniors to pass the civics assessment with a score of 80% or higher, ensuring they graduate with a strong understanding of government, history and democratic principles. In addition to classroom learning, students are getting hands-on experiences through voter registration drives, the Youth in Government club and real-world simulations like mock elections.

To support these activities, GMSD provided teachers with a range of resources, including videos, activities and Constitution-focused materials. These efforts ensure that our students grasp the significance of the Constitution in a fun, engaging and meaningful way.

As we continue to prioritize civic education, Freedom Week and initiatives like the Civics Seal program serve as powerful reminders of how GMSD is working to build knowledgeable, responsible and active citizens ready to contribute to their communities.

GMSD is wrapping up its annual goal-setting process, and we're excited to preview the plans for the year ahead with our families. Each year, our district and individual schools create specific goals to guide students toward success. These goals are developed with data, feedback from teachers and input from the community to ensure we are meeting the needs of all students.

For the district, we focus on three main areas: foundational literacy (ensuring early reading skills are strong by 2nd grade), algebra readiness (making sure middle school students are prepared for high school math) and preparing our students for life after graduation. These are our district-wide targets that support student achievement.

This year, we are also working on school-specific goals that align with these district priorities while addressing unique needs and individual students at each campus. Here are a few examples:

• Dogwood Elementary School is focusing on reading skills, setting a goal for 87% of students to be reading on grade level by the end of the school year.
• Houston High School is implementing a digital citizenship program. This initiative is aimed at teaching students responsible online behavior, including safe internet practices, understanding their digital footprint and promoting positive online interactions. Alongside this, they are enhancing literacy across all subjects to ensure students are well-prepared for postsecondary success.
• Farmington Elementary is aligning with the district's literacy and algebra goals while also incorporating career awareness programs to give students a head start on future career opportunities.

School Improvement Plans will be submitted to the State in October, while community members will be invited to provide feedback September 30- October 11 on the district's goals and TISA allocations. You can find that information, right here, in your newsletter. We’re excited to gather feedback from families on these plans and how we can work together to achieve these goals. Be on the lookout for ways to share your thoughts and ideas as we move forward with these initiatives.

Each school is tailoring its goals to meet the needs of its students, and we look forward to working with you to ensure our students are ready for whatever comes next.

GMSD is excited to introduce new Parent Engagement Sessions, designed to build stronger connections between parents, educators and support staff, especially those involved in the IEP (Individualized Education Program) process. Our first session, "IEP 101", is set for this Thursday, September 26 from 9:00 - 11:00 AM at the district office. During this session, parents will receive a comprehensive overview of the IEP framework, helping them understand how individualized plans are developed and implemented for students with disabilities. This initiative comes directly from parent feedback, and we’re committed to ensuring families feel confident and supported throughout the IEP process. Future sessions will feature guest speakers and cover topics like effective advocacy for your child. We invite you to join us and become an even stronger partner in your child’s education. Parents of students with IEPs received invitations last month, but today is the last day to register! Hurry—spots are filling up fast!

Houston High School hosted its annual College Fair last week, featuring more than 60 college and military representatives. Students had the opportunity to meet with admissions representatives during their flex and lunch periods, learning more about potential future academic paths. In addition to the College Fair, the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) visited Houston High for Career Chats. THP officers gave students insight into their daily responsibilities, pay, benefits, and what it's like to work for the THP. These events provided valuable opportunities for students to explore both educational and career options.

In this spotlight video, we sit down with Matthew McDonald, the captain of the Houston High School Mountain Biking Team, to learn about his journey into the sport and what keeps him passionate about it. Matthew shares how he first got involved with mountain biking and why he loves the adrenaline and camaraderie of the sport.

We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievements of Lillian Jiang, a talented 11th-grade student at Houston High School. Lillian recently earned 3rd Place in Youth Girls Free Skating at the 2024 USARS National Championships in Lincoln, NE, after qualifying by placing 2nd at the 2024 Southern Regional Championships in Orlando, FL. This marks her fourth consecutive year competing at the national level, a testament to her decade-long dedication to skating. Lillian also took home 1st Place in Senior Women Freestyle at the 2024 American Artistic Roller-Skating Championship in Union, MO.

Beyond her skating success, Lillian shines academically and artistically. She was selected for the ALL-WEST Violin Orchestra under the guidance of Dr. Longlong Kang and participated in the Summer Healthcare Experience in Oncology Program at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, exploring career opportunities in oncology with strong support from her teacher, Mr. John Kennon.

Paraprofessionals are an integral part of our schools, providing essential support to students and teachers alike. From working one-on-one with students who need extra help to assisting in classrooms, their impact is felt throughout the school day.

Paraprofessionals help ensure that every student receives individualized attention, whether it's reinforcing lessons, supporting students with special needs or assisting with behavior management. They are often the steady, guiding hand that helps students gain confidence and independence.

In addition to working directly with students, paraprofessionals assist teachers by preparing materials, supervising group activities and helping the classroom run smoothly. Their versatility extends beyond the classroom too, as they often assist with recess, lunch duties and after-school programs.

We love this photo captured by HHS teacher O’Malley King, showing a paraprofessional enjoying Fun Friday with one of her students. It’s a wonderful reminder of the personal connections they build and the joy they bring to our school community. Paraprofessionals truly make a difference, and we are grateful for their dedication and the vital role they play in our schools!

This month, Bobby Spillman, Houston High School’s art teacher, is showcasing his work in an exhibit titled Fort Spillman at the W.O. Benjamin Fine Arts Gallery in Fulton, Mississippi. The show runs September 3 - October 2. This is an exciting opportunity to see Bobby's vibrant paintings on display, and it’s a great reminder that many of our GMSD teachers are also practicing artists. Bobby’s creativity and talent go beyond the classroom, where he continues to inspire his students and our community. Congratulations, Bobby, on this impressive show!

Send a shoutout to your favorite GMSD staffers with four ready-made templates: The MVP, You Are Appreciated, Top Notch Customer Service, and Someone Wants to Celebrate You! Simply select the staff member you want to recognize, type your positive feedback in the text box, and be specific about what they did that impressed you or made a difference. Choose to leave your name or remain anonymous. Once your Gratitude Gram is approved, the recipient receives an email with your message and an attached, easily printable graphic they can proudly display. Take a moment to spread some appreciation today!

This past weekend, the Houston Mustang Theatre showcased an impressive lineup of student-directed one-act plays, giving students the opportunity to demonstrate their talents both on stage and behind the scenes. These productions were fully directed, produced, and in some cases even written by our very own students. It's a fantastic way for budding directors, actors and playwrights to hone their craft and share their creativity with the community.

The one-acts featured direction from Caroline Adams, Annabelle Gary, Helena Lange, Greer McGaughey, Mia Mittag, Kai Scott, Olivia Sigman and Carter Yeargan, all of whom brought their unique vision to the stage. The variety of plays highlighted the diverse talents of Houston High’s theater students.

Next up, the Houston Mustang Theatre will present their Fall production of Alice in Wonderland, November 8-11.

A huge thank you to our first-ever talent showcase participants—Emma Nguyen, Kambria Goode, Evie Young and Claire Thompson—for putting on an amazing performance at the Germantown Chamber of Commerce Meeting! Their talent earned thunderous applause.

In the same weekend, Evie Young of Forest Hill Elementary went on to take the grand prize at the Mid-South Fair Singing Competition, earning the prestigious title of Mid-South Fair Grand Award Winner!

We’re already looking for more talent, so don’t miss your chance to shine! Submit your audition video for the next showcase through our GMSD Star Search form: https://form.jotform.com.

Exciting news for our Houston High marching band—the new band uniforms are in! Just in time for our favorite part of marching band season, as The Pale Blue Dot performance continues to come together. Adding to the fun, our middle school bands joined the excitement at Friday night’s game, making the evening even more special. The students looked incredible under the lights, and we captured some great photos of the new 'fits.

On Friday night, we celebrated Gates Mims with our Gold for Gates game, and Mustang Nation showed out! All decked out in gold, our students surpassed their fundraising goals. With an initial goal of $3,030, after game night contributions, they raised $10,000. Thank you Mustang Nation for your support. No one fights alone! Go Gator! This week varsity football is away at Tupelo at 7:00 p.m., so come on down and show your support. Varsity volleyball had a great week, winning 3-0 over Brighton and Collierville, and this weekend in Hoover, AL they won Gold in the 2024 Heffstrong Tournament. Congratulations! Up next, they are away at Briarcrest, which is sure to be a great game, and this Thursday, they are away at Bartlett. Girls varsity soccer had two big wins last week, and this week they are back at home! Tomorrow they face Arlington at 7:00 p.m., and Thursday it’s Houston vs. Germantown at 7:00 p.m. Come out and show your support! In Cross Country, the Mustangs had an excellent weekend in Louisville at the Trinity/Valkyrie Invitational Meet, with the varsity boys placing fourth, and multiple new personal bests achieved! The next big race for JV and varsity is the Frank Horton Invitational on October 5. Varsity golf heads into their district tournament today, and regionals begin on Thursday. Let’s Go Mustangs!

Voting for GMSD's September Athlete of the Month is now open! Read what coaches had to say about these incredible student athletes, and cast your vote. This is the last week of voting - voting is set to close September 30 at Noon.

September High School nominees:

Kenley Henderson - Senior, Volleyball

Garrison Hickey - Junior, Cross Country

Martha Kate Jessop - Junior, Cross Country

McKlain Jones - Senior, Soccer

Ellet Smith - Senior, Soccer

September Middle School nominees:

Eryn Beaver - 7th Grade, Houston Middle School, Soccer

Lily Brownd - 8th Grade, Houston Middle School, Volleyball

Ann Catherine Elrod - 6th Grade, Houston Middle School, Soccer

Charli Coleman - 8th Grade, Riverdale, Volleyball

Milly Dodson - 6th Grade, Riverdale, Cross Country

Zeke Newhouse - 7th Grade, Riverdale, Cross Country

Houston High School girls varsity basketball is hosting a two-day camp over fall break! This camp is sure to prepare students that are headed into their basketball season. Registration is now open.

HHS Baseball is hosting their 21st annual golf tournament! This event is on Friday, November 8 with an 11:00 a.m. start time, and there are multiple ways to get involved. To register for this event and for any questions, contact mustangbullpenclub@gmail.com. Pay for your team or company's entrance here.

Germantown Education Foundation 5K & Family Fun Color Run

Saturday, September 28, 2024
Wolf River @ Kimbrough

Bounce Houses & Food Trucks

Opens at 8:00 am
Certified 5k at 9:00 am
Color Run at 10:30 am

New this year: School teams have their own school color shirts. $10 from each school registration goes to your school in unrestricted donation. Any donation to your school team are designated for your school’s grant funds. Registrations after 9/15 receive a shirt, but in the color available in your size.

REGISTER TODAY!

Make sure that your senior registers with a non-GMSD email address in our Alumni Portal! Click here.

Click here to view a digital copy of our ALUMNI magazine.

The GERMANTOWN MSD app – Our school district in your pocket. Sync our calendar seamlessly across all your devices. Access student information, attendance, assignments, grades and more – all in one convenient place. Get a personalized feed tailored to your preferences. Choose your schools and news sources for a streamlined experience. Stay informed, stay connected – with the GERMANTOWN MSD app.

You can quickly download the NEW GMSD app to access all of these features. First, search for 'Germantown MSD' in your preferred app store (iOS or Google). As a parent or caregiver, you'll select 'App Login' to access your child's information. The login process includes a one-time passcode that connects to the cell phone or email you have listed in Skyward--so there's no passwords to learn or memorize! If you need assistance logging in, we are standing by to help.

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/germantown-msd/id6446898026

Google: http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.blackboard.community.gmsdk12

*If either of the two links above are not working, you can also find the app by searching Germantown MSD.