

The Viking Weekly Newsletter
Week of October 20, 2024

Week of 2/10 - 2/14 at GMS 📰✨
Hello, GMS Family! 🎉
Our new bell schedule continues!
Want to know more about the schedule? Check out the video below! You can also check out our January 24th Community Letter here.
Celebrate Black History Month with us by joining in on these Spirit Days:
- Monday, February 10 - 🏈 Wear a football jersey (honoring Black athletes in sports)
- Wednesday, February 12 - 💛 Wear GMS yellow (symbolizing justice & optimism)
- Friday, February 14 -❤️ Wear red (spreading love & unity)
This is a 5-day week"
- Monday, February 10 - Northwest All County Band at Quince Orchard High School @ 7:30 PM
- Tuesday, February 11 - PTA Meeting @ 6:30 PM. Have any questions you want answered? Email our PTA President at president@gmspta.org. POSTPONED
- Wednesday, February 12 - GMS 1st Annual Spelling Bee @ 5 PM in the Main Gym 🐝 POSTPONED
- Thursday, February 13 - Girls Basketball - Loiderman at GMS @ 3:30 PM 🏀
- Thursday, February 13 - Boys Basketball - GMS at Loiderman @ 3:30 PM 🏀
After-School Opportunities:
- Wednesday, February 12 - Know Your Rights Presentation (in Spanish) @ 3 PM
Reminders:
- Explore our GMS Course Catalogue 📖—available in Spanish and English on our website! Please note that course offerings are subject to change, and updates will be made weekly.
-
Grade 7 Field Trip Reminder 🏛️ – Students who consistently demonstrate Viking Values will be heading to the museum next Friday, February 21st! ✅ Permission slips are due this Friday, February 14th—no exceptions! Please remind students to turn them in on time.
Sincerely,
Dr. Sofía Grant-Dewitt (she/her/ella)
Principal/Directora
Email: Sofia_M_Grant-Dewitt@mcpsmd.org
Website: https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/gaithersburgms/
Location: 2 Teachers Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Phone: (240) 740-4950
Instagram: @GMSVikings
Twitter: @GMSVikings
Para traducir este boletín, seleccione "español" en "Translate Newsletter" en el recuadro negro a su derecha o en su cellular encima.
During the Next Few Months
- Monday, February 17 - No School
- Wednesday, February 19 - Girls Basketball - GMS at Farquhar @ 3:30 PM 🏀
- Wednesday, February 19 - Boys Basketball - Farquhar at GMS @ 3:30 PM 🏀
- Wednesday, February 19 - GMS 1st Annual Spelling Bee @ 5 PM in the Main Gym 🐝
- Thursday, February 27 - Girls Basketball - Redland at GMS @ 3:30 PM 🏀
- Thursday, February 27 - Boys Basketball - GMS at Redland @ 3:30 PM 🏀
- Friday, February 28 - Early Release and Love & Legacy Day
- Monday, March 10 - Friday, March 14 - MISA Testing
- Tuesday, March 11 - PTA Meeting @ 6:30 PM
- Tuesday, March 11 - Thursday, March 13 - Soccer Tryouts ⚽
- Monday, March 24 - Friday, March 28 - Spring Book Fair
- Wednesday, March 26 - Maryland School Survey
- Monday, March 31 - No School
- Wednesday, April 2 - Girls Soccer - GMS at Redland @ 3:30 PM ⚽
- Wednesday, April 2 - Boys Soccer - Redland at GMS @ 3:30 PM ⚽
- Monday, April 7 - Friday, April 11 - MCAP - ELA/Math Testing
- Wednesday, April 9 - Girls Soccer - Shady Grove at GMS @ 3:30 PM ⚽
- Wednesday, April 9 - Boys Soccer - GMS at Shady Grove @ 3:30 PM ⚽
- Monday, April 14 - Monday, April 21 - No School (Spring Break)
- Thursday, May 1 - Girls Soccer - GMS vs Forest Oak at GHS @ 5 PM ⚽
- Thursday, May 1 - Boys Soccer - GMS vs Forest Oak at GHS @ 7 PM ⚽
- Monday, May 5 - Friday, May 9 - MAP-R Testing
- Wednesday, May 7- Girls Soccer - GMS at Montgomery Village @ 3:30 PM ⚽
- Wednesday, May 7 - Boys Soccer - Montgomery Village at GMS @ 3:30 PM ⚽
- Monday, May 12 - Friday, May 16 - MAP-M Testing
- Wednesday, May 15 - Girls Soccer - Loiderman at GMS @ 3:30 PM ⚽
- Wednesday, May 15 - Boys Soccer - GMS at Loiderman @ 3:30 PM ⚽
- Monday, May 19 - Friday, May 23 - Social Studies MCAP Testing (8th Grade)
- Tuesday, May 20 - GMS Spring Band and Orchestra Concert @ GMS Gym 7PM
- Monday, May 26 - No School
- Tuesday, June 3rd - 8th Grade Promotion at GHS
- Friday, June 6 - No School
- Friday, June 13 - Last Day of School
Planning ahead?
Click here to see the 2024-2025 MCPS Calendar for this school year.
GMS Upcoming Events 📆
🐝 GMS First Annual Spelling Bee UPDATE
Attention GMS Spellers, families, friends, and teachers! The 1st Annual GMS School-Wide Spelling Bee is scheduled for this Wednesday. February 12th. Spellers should arrive at 5pm, and the bee will start at 5:30pm. If you have not already RSVPd your speller (classroom winners & runner-ups), please do so using this Google Form.
The snow date, in the event of evening closures on the 12th, is Wednesday, February 19th. Looking forward to this academic competition and crowing the Viking Spelling Champ to send to the County Bee in March! Please contact Siarra O’Neal siarra_n_o’neal@mcpsmd.org with any questions.
📢 Know Your Rights – Free Information Session!
Do you know what to say, what to do, and who to call in important situations? 🤔📞
Join us for a Know Your Rights session to learn essential information that can help protect you and your family!
📅 Tuesday, February 18, 2025
📍 Gaithersburg Elementary School – Cafeteria
⏰ 2:00 – 3:00 PM
🔹 Get informed. Be prepared. Stay empowered.
📲 To RSVP or for questions, call/text: 240-550-0937
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn valuable information for you and your community!
¡Conoce tus derechos!
📢 Reprogramado ¡Conoce tus derechos! Únete a KIND (Kids in Need of Defense) el miércoles 19 de febrero a las 3:00 p.m. en Gaithersburg Middle School para una sesión informativa sobre derechos legales y recursos para jóvenes inmigrantes. ¡Te esperamos! #ConozcaSusDerechos
GMS Chess League
Mark your calendars for a super playful adventure on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at 2:00 pm! We'll be gathering in Meeting Room #1 (first floor) at Rockville Memorial Library, 21 Maryland Avenue (just a hop from the Rockville Metro stop).
Get ready to dive into a delightful challenge, make new pals, and create memories that sparkle with every game. No matter what, we're all about fun and laughter!
FREE 480 Club Basketball Clinic
🏀 Shoot & Score! Join us for the FREE 480 Club Basketball Clinic on Feb. 28 (1–3:30 PM) at GMS! 🍽️ Lunch is included, and this half-day session is open to boys & girls in grades 6–8. Get ready for NESS’ Skills & Drills and fun competitions. Scan the QR code to sign up—don’t miss this slam dunk! 🏆✨
🏊♂️ GMS Swim Night is Back! 🏊♀️
📅 Friday, February 28
🕠 Session 1: 5:30 – 6:30 PM | 🕡 Session 2: 6:30 – 7:30 PM
📍 Gaithersburg Aquatic Center at GMS
💡 What to Expect:
✅ Learn about PE’s swimming unit
✅ Meet the instructors & staff
✅ Q&A + Raffle 🎟️🏆
✅ Free swim for parents & registered students! 🏊♂️💙
✅ Spanish translators & Bridge Staff available
🔹 Important: A parent/guardian must attend. Extra family members: $4 each.
💌 Questions? Contact Ms. Simmons at Tara_M_Simmons@mcpsmd.org
See you at the pool! 🌊✨
📢 Join the 14th Annual Spelling Bee & Oratorical Competition! 🐝🎤
Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Montgomery County Maryland Chapter, proudly presents the 14th Annual Spelling Bee & Benjamin E. Mays Oratorical Competition!
📅 Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM
📍 Location: Montgomery College, Rockville Campus (51 Mannakee St, Rockville, MD 20850)
💰 Cost: $20
✨ Who Can Participate?
📝 Spelling Bee – Open to Jack and Jill Members & Montgomery County students in Grades 1-5
🎙 Oratorical Competition – Open to Jack and Jill Members & Montgomery County students in Grades 6-12
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity for students to showcase their spelling skills or deliver powerful speeches while building confidence and academic excellence!
📌 Register Now! Scan the QR code on the flyer to secure your spot.
#AcademicExcellence #SpellingBee #PublicSpeaking #JJMCMC
Parents Night Out
Looking for a fun Valentine’s Day night without the kids? 💕 The City of Gaithersburg’s Inclusion Program is hosting Parents Night Out! 🎉 Drop off your little ones for a safe and exciting evening filled with pizza, crafts, movies, and a sensory zone while you enjoy some well-deserved time off. 🌟 Designed especially for kids with disabilities, but everyone is welcome!
📅 When: Friday, February 14, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
📍 Where: Activity Center at Bohrer Park, 506 S Frederick Ave, Gaithersburg, MD
💲 Cost: $25 (Residents), $30 (Non-Residents)
Kids must be potty trained. Spaces fill fast—sign up today! ❤️
Excelling Youth Through Wellness!
Montgomery County youth, join Be Well to Excel, a FREE after-school boxing and wellness program! No experience required—just a desire to learn and grow.
🗓️ When: February 18 - March 13, 2025 (Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:30-6:45 PM)
📍 Where: Donte’s Boxing Gym, Derwood, MD
How to Join:
1️⃣ Apply by February 10
2️⃣ Complete a quick virtual interview
3️⃣ Attend a FREE trial class on February 13
Spots are limited—scan the QR code to apply today! 💪
📧 Questions? Contact: info@dontesfoundation.org
🎓✨ Save the Date – GMS 8th Grade Promotion Ceremony! ✨🎓
📢 8th Grade Families, it’s time to celebrate!
Join us as we honor the GMS Class of 2025 at our Promotion Ceremony 🎉🎓
📅 Tuesday, June 3rd
⏰ 3:30 PM
📍 Gaithersburg High School (Football Stadium)
Come celebrate this exciting milestone with us, and stick around for a family after-party with food and fun at Gaithersburg High School!
💡 More Info Coming Soon: Stay tuned for details about the 8th Grade End-of-Year Field Trip—we can't wait to share the plans!
Let’s make the end of middle school one to remember! 💙💛
District News
📢 Let's Talk: Mental Health & Substance Use Prevention Family Forum! 💜🚨
Your child. Your family. Our community. Substance use impacts us all, and one conversation could save a life.
Join MCPS, the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, and Montgomery Goes Purple for an important and engaging family forum focused on mental health and substance use prevention.
🗓 Event Details:
📅 Saturday, March 1, 2025
⏰ 8:00 a.m. – Noon
📍 Gaithersburg High School (101 Education Blvd, Gaithersburg, MD 20877)
🍽 Breakfast Provided
💡 What You’ll Learn:
✔️ The dangers of fentanyl, alcohol, and other substances
✔️ How to talk to your child about substance use
✔️ School & community resources for prevention & treatment
✔️ Narcan training & distribution
✔️ Insurance coverage & treatment options
🏆 BONUS: The middle and high school with the most attendees will get FREE ICE CREAM during lunch! 🍦 Plus, students can earn 4 SSL hours for attending!
💜 Let’s work together to keep our kids safe. RSVP today and learn more on the MCPS Mental Health website!
🎶🎹 Exclusive Piano Sale for MCPS Families & Staff! 🎹🎶
Looking to bring beautiful music into your home? 🎼 MCPS families and staff have an exclusive opportunity to purchase high-quality grand, upright, and digital pianos at special discounted prices!
✨ Annual Piano Sales Event ✨
📅 March 8–16, 2025
📍 Schaeffer’s Piano Co. | 105 North Stonestreet Ave, Rockville, MD 20850
📞 Appointments only – Call 301-424-1147 to book!
🎹 What’s Included?
✔️ 15-year transferable warranty
✔️ A matching bench
✔️ One free in-house tuning
Schaeffer’s Piano Company, the area’s oldest piano store, has partnered with MCPS to keep our school music programs thriving while offering our community these incredible savings before the public sale!
🎵 Don’t miss this chance to bring the joy of music into your home! Visit www.schaefferspiano.com for more details.
Happy playing! 🎶💙💛
Ensuring Safety Should Immigration Law Enforcement Visit an MCPS School
MCPS has clear procedures in place to ensure student safety if immigration officials visit a school. These steps help staff respond appropriately while prioritizing student well-being:
- Verify the visitor's identity and obtain official documentation.
- Notify MCPS legal counsel for guidance.
- Contact the impacted student’s family in their preferred language.
- Follow security protocols to protect all students and staff.
For more information and Frequently Asked Questions, visit the MCPS Immigration Supports page.
Summer RISE 2025 Student Registration
Summer RISE 2025 Student Registration: The Summer RISE program is open to current sophomores and juniors who want to gain real-world experience over the summer. Participating students will be matched with career hosts based on their industry preferences for a minimum of 50 hours in person, virtually or through hybrid opportunities from June 23–July 25. Registration closes on Tuesday, Feb. 18.
Choose Respect 2025
Secondary students participating in the video contest have until Sunday, Feb. 16 to submit their entries. Videos must be 60 seconds with a message raising awareness about dating violence/abuse, consent, or how to support a friend facing a difficult situation. Students can earn SSL hours and win up to $1,000. Learn more.
Registration Open Now for Spring Girls With Impact Program
The spring session of Girls With Impact (GWI) is now open for registration. GWI offers a free 10-week entrepreneurship program to high school students at MCPS. This program focuses on building critical business and leadership skills through a hands-on curriculum that covers topics including business planning, marketing and financial literacy. The spring program begins the week of March 3. Learn more and register.
Masks Encouraged in School Health Rooms
With the recent increase in respiratory and viral illnesses (including COVID-19, influenza and RSV) in Montgomery County and the state of Maryland, MCPS has received guidance from the Maryland Department of Health to encourage students, staff and visitors to wear masks when visiting the health room in schools. While wearing a mask is not required, it is encouraged to help prevent the spread of illness. If your child doesn't have a mask during their health room visit, your school will provide one.
Changes to COSA Process Coming This Year
The MCPS 2025-2026 Change of School Assignment (COSA) transfer season opens on Monday, Feb. 3, and closes on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. The COSA process allows families to submit a request for their children to transfer out of their assigned home school.
Students are expected to attend the school within the established attendance area in which they reside (home school) or are assigned based on their Individualized Education Program (IEP). Learn more about the criteria.
Important changes for the upcoming COSA transfer process:
- Requests submitted after April 1, 2025, will not be considered unless there was a recent move or an emergency event that could not have been foreseen prior to April 1.
- All COSA requests must be submitted online through ParentVue in Synergy. Parents who need support on how to use ParentVue to complete an online COSA request are encouraged to reach out to a staff member at their child’s assigned school.
- Detailed information related to the COSA process can be found in the 2025-2026 COSA information booklet, which will be available at the end of January.
For questions, call the Division of Pupil Personnel and Attendance Services at 240-740-5620.
Winter Parent Academy Schedule Now Available
Families and students can stay engaged throughout the school year with Parent Academy TO GO, a series of virtual webinars for families to watch at home. The January, February and March webinars are available on the Parent Academy website. Registration is available here.
Working Together to Create a Safe and Welcoming School Community
As we begin the second half of the school year, we want to remind students and their families of the many resources available to support everyone. These resources also reflect our shared commitment to fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive school community.
Civic Engagement and Civil Discourse
MCPS is committed to fostering civic engagement and civil discourse among our students. These are essential skills and strategies that empower young people to navigate a diverse world with respect and confidence.
The MCPS Civic Engagement and Civil Discourse Google Site provides centralized resources for staff and is easily accessible via the MCPS Resources tab in Google Chrome. The website provides resources to support creating an environment where students can participate productively, engage safely, and experience uniform rule application across the district.
Strategies concerning political engagement, including guidelines for students.
Supporting Our Diverse Community
Our diversity is a huge strength for us, and it’s our duty to ensure every individual feels valued and supported. Please keep the following resources in mind:
Addressing Hate-Bias and Antiracism
MCPS tiered protocols are critical for addressing hate and bias incidents, ensuring we respond thoughtfully and effectively when these situations arise.
Summer RISE Student Registration Now Open
Student registration for Summer RISE 2025 is open until Feb. 18.
Summer RISE offers a hands-on, career-based learning experience with businesses, government agencies, higher education institutions and nonprofit organizations. The program is open to high school sophomores and juniors who want to gain real-world experience over the summer.
Participating students will be matched with career hosts based on their industry preferences for a minimum of 50 hours of in-person, virtual or hybrid opportunities from June 23 through July 25. This program allows students to:
Explore careers and workplace expectations.
Develop essential professional and technical skills.
Make informed college and career decisions.
Build a network of mentors to guide their career paths.
To learn more, join one of our Student & Parent/Guardian Information Sessions or visit www.MCPS-SummerRISE.org.
Registration closes on Tuesday, Feb. 18.
Stay Informed About Weather-Related Changes
With winter weather just around the corner, updates to school schedules and operations may sometimes need to be made. To receive the latest information on delays, closures and operational changes, Stay Connected, subscribe to Alert MCPS, and monitor our color-coded status system.
Keep Your Contact Information Current
To ensure you receive timely notifications, please update your contact details via the ParentVUE link on the MCPS Community Tech Support website.
Learn more about the color codes.
MCPS Operating Status Inclement Weather, 2024-2025
Board Approves 2025-2026 School Calendar
The Board of Education has approved the traditional and innovative school year calendars for the 2025-2026 school year.
Key Highlights
Student Transition Day Introduced: Scheduled for Monday, Aug. 25, 2025, this new non-instructional full day is designed to support students transitioning to new school levels or schools by fostering a sense of belonging and preparedness.
Traditional Calendar Overview:
First day of school: Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025.
Last day of school: Wednesday, June 17, 2026.
Includes 181 instructional days, with six contingency days built in.
Key holidays and breaks align with state requirements, including Labor Day, Thanksgiving, winter and spring breaks, and other observances.
Innovative Calendar for Arcola Elementary:
Features 206 instructional days, beginning July 8, 2025, with an extended break in August.
Aligns with the traditional calendar for holidays and closures, while incorporating additional instructional days and unique scheduling features.
📢 Exciting News: MealViewer is HERE! 🎉
We’re thrilled to announce that Montgomery County Public Schools has launched MealViewer, a new interactive platform for breakfast and lunch menus!
With MealViewer, you’ll enjoy:
🌟 Real-time menu updates
🥗 Item-specific nutritional and allergen information
⭐ The ability to rate meals, star favorites, and use a nutrition calculator (optional)
📱 Mobile and browser-friendly access—use the app or a browser with no sign-in required!
The traditional PDF menus will still be available until December 31, 2024. Starting January 1, 2025, all menus will be accessible exclusively via MealViewer.
Here’s how you can get started:
- Explore MealViewer via browser or download the app on Android or iPhone.
- Check out the MealViewer Introductory Video and other helpful resources (like how to print menus or use the nutrition calculator).
- Access menus for our school easily with the custom link provided: http://schools.mealviewer.com/school/GaithersburgMS
- We’re excited about this upgrade and hope it makes staying informed about meals easier and more fun for everyone!
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Let’s make MealViewer a delicious success!
Fall Parent Academy Schedule Now Available
Families and students can stay engaged throughout the school year with Parent Academy TO GO, a series of free virtual webinars for families. October, November and December webinars are now available on the Parent Academy website. Topics include managing bedtime battles, learning skills for better communication and tools to diffuse power struggles, and handling disappointing grades. Registration is available here.
District Upcoming Events
The Bridge Called Our Backs: A Story of Pain and Triumph
Check out Wooton High School's Annual Black History Month Program. This year’s theme is “The Bridge Called Our Backs: A Story of Pain and Triumph.” It’s going to be a special evening filled with inspiring performances—from dance to fashion—showcasing the amazing talents of our high school students.
Join them on Wednesday, February 19th from 6:30 to 8:30 PM.
Upcoming Student Events and Opportunities
The 2025 Gaithersburg Book Festival’s annual poetry contest is open for submissions. This year’s theme is “Civic Duty.” This contest is open to high school students. The deadline is midnight on Friday, Feb. 21. First, second, third place and fan favorite winners will receive $250, $100, $50 and $25, respectively. Winners will be announced at the festival on Saturday, May 17. 2025 GBF Poetry Contest Flyer
The Division of Sustainability and Compliance is holding its annual poster contest to increase awareness about the importance of environmental sustainability, energy conservation, waste reduction and responsible recycling. All MCPS students and staff are invited to participate, and to vote online to determine the winners in the spring. The deadline is Friday, April 4.
2025 Sustainability Poster Contest Entry Form
Contest Guidelines
Student Service Learning (SSL) Opportunities in January
Summer Camp Registration Opens Tuesday, Jan. 21: Montgomery County Recreation is hosting safe, fun and exciting summer camps. Camp registration begins at 6:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 21 for county residents. Explore the digital program guide ahead of registration day.
Applications are being accepted for 2025 Rec Assist, which provides eligible residents the opportunity to receive a scholarship for recreation programs. For more information about summer camp registration, visit the website or call 240-777-6840.
📚💡 Get Ready for the 17th Annual HBCU College Fair! 🎓✨
We’re thrilled to share that the 17th Annual Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) College Fair is happening on Friday, February 14, 2025, from 6:00–8:30 p.m. at The Universities at Shady Grove!
This incredible event is open to students in Grades 8–12 and their families. With over 50 HBCU representatives on-site, this is your chance to learn, connect, and explore opportunities for your academic future.
What’s Happening at the Fair?
🌟 On-the-spot scholarships for Grade 12 students.
💰 Workshops on FAFSA, financial aid, scholarships, and more.
📖 Presentations from the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and insights on finding your best-fit HBCU.
🎤 Panel discussions with college students and representatives from local fraternities and sororities.
📚 A special session for middle school students with fun and informative activities!
Don’t Miss Out!
- Registration opens on Friday, December 13, 2024, on the HBCU Fair website.
- Bring your questions and get help completing your FAFSA with experts from the Maryland Higher Education Commission, Montgomery College, and more.
This is a fantastic opportunity to explore higher education options and gain valuable knowledge about life at HBCUs. Parents, students, and even school staff are encouraged to attend.
Let’s come together to celebrate education and opportunities at the HBCU College Fair! 🌟
Join Restorative Approaches: Student Voices! 🌟
Attention all middle and high school students across MCPS!
Here’s your chance to make a difference in your school community while earning 1 SSL hour per meeting! Learn about restorative approaches, engage in meaningful discussions with peers and specialists, and discover how you can lead in building community, wellness, and resolving conflicts at your school.
📅 2024–2025 Meeting Dates (3:20 PM–4:15 PM on Zoom):
- December 18th
- February 19th
- April 23rd
Let your voice be heard and take part in creating a positive impact! Students can click here to join the conversation.
All meetings are virtual—see you there! ✨
SSL Opportunities
Teen Series
Looking for a fun, creative space to spark your imagination and make new friends? 🎨💕 Come hang out at the SMYAL Teen Series at Brigadier General Charles E. McGee Library! 📚✨ Join us every session from 4–6 PM (drop-ins welcome, no registration needed!). From creating DIY zines and learning about Queer Art History 🌈📖 to chatting about important topics like racism, painting ✏️🎨, and crafting your next masterpiece 💡—there’s something for everyone! Plus, we’ll wrap it up with a Teen Book Club (title announcement coming soon! 📚👀)
Upcoming SSL Opportunities
- The 2024-2025 MCPS Student Expectations Training Module is available on Canvas for students to access. Students must fully complete the training module to earn 3 SSL hours.
- The Choose Respect Video Contest (Deadline: February 16, 2025) is now open! Students may earn 10 SSL hours for quality video submissions about healthy teen dating and the impact of teen dating violence. Interested students may view the contest rules and additional information at this website.
- MCPS National History Day (March 8, 2025, 8:00am - 2:00pm) - For MCPS Students 18+ - MCPS is looking for HS students 18+ to judge student projects at the National History Day County Competition on March 8, 2025! Students will receive 6 SSL hours, as well as breakfast and lunch on the day of the event. To learn more, please visit this link - https://montgomerycountymd.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=1014803
- Students Teaching Students Video Series (Ongoing) – MCPS is seeking students interested in creating a video presentation that teaches a skill or process that would be inspiring or useful for students in middle or high school. Students may earn 10 SSL hours for successful submission of all items identified in the submission form.
JCA Interages Offering SSL Opportunities
L'Chaim ("to life") Intergenerational Chorale (Secular Program through JCA Interages)
Come join the L'Chaim ("to life") Chorale and make joyful music across the generations! Students are invited to join members of the JCA's Kensington Clubs, a social day program for older adults diagnosed with early-stage memory loss, to learn songs from a variety of genres including musical theater, spirituals and Jewish music and perform.
* Singers from all backgrounds welcome
* No experience or audition necessary
* SSL hours granted
Rehearsals: Tuesdays, January 14, 21, 28, February 4, 11, 18 from 4:15 - 5:30 PM
Location: Jewish Council for the Aging (JCA), 12320 Parklawn Drive, Rockville, MD 20852
Performance: February 23rd at 3 PM
Permission slip please have parent or guardian fill out. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf9UFTxQMNIo95Ll-A5rbtncSMl_jU2zOqVD6gxDvdRSnwMjw/viewform?usp=sf_link
So Many Opportunities
- The Choose Respect Video Contest (Deadline: February 16, 2025) is now open! Students may earn 10 SSL hours for quality video submissions about healthy teen dating and the impact of teen dating violence. Interested students may view the contest rules and additional information at this website.
- Students Teaching Students Video Series - VIRTUAL/REMOTE (Ongoing) – MCPS is seeking students interested in creating a video presentation that teaches a skill or process that would be inspiring or useful for MCPS students in middle or high school. Students may earn 10 SSL hours for successful submission of all items identified in the submission form.
- Additional November 2024 SSL Opportunities
KindSoup for Students
We are happy to announce that we recently expanded our KindSoup for Students virtual cooking opportunities! We invite all students to join us online (twice a month) to cook soup and donate to community members in need! Before the call, students will buy and prep ingredients. During the call, students get to ask questions about the recipe, engage with other students. This is a great activity for families as well!
KindSoup for Students
- February 2nd - Chicken Tortilla Soup
- February 16th - Butternut Squash & Cauliflower Winter Vegetable Soup
- March 2nd - Chicken and Gnocchi Dumpling Soup
Our weekly KindSoup Zoom cooking sessions provide a chance for the whole family to cook and spread kindness (even grandparents in other states).
Other Resources & Events
George B. Thomas Saturday School
Affordable academic tutoring for grades K-12 at Gaithersburg High School, other high schools, and on-line. Saturdays from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. Program begins September 2024. Click here to register and learn more.
MCPS Parent Academy
Student, Family, and School Services is very excited to provide "Parent Academy TO GO," a series of virtual presentations for families to participate and view at home. Click here to learn more and register.
Gaithersburg Youth Club
Click here to learn more about the GYC, an after-school, supervised, and fun club for our students. The center is right across the street from GMS and the program costs only $20 or $25 per year.
City of Gaithersburg Resources
Contact Us
Contacting Us
During the school year, if your question is about your child's class, the first person to contact is always your child's teacher. Use Synergy to quickly email your child's teachers or see our Staff Directory.
Email: Sofia_M_Grant-Dewitt@mcpsmd.org
Website: https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/gaithersburgms/
Location: 2 Teachers Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Phone: (240) 740-4950
Instagram: @GMSVikings
Twitter: @GMSVikings