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Attention Sophomore and Junior families!
PSAT Day will take place on Wednesday, October 11th starting at 8:40. The PSATs will be digital this year to prepare students for digital SATs in Spring 2024. It is important for families to review the MLWGS Digital PSAT Information to prepare for test day.
You are allowed to use your personal device for testing. Personal devices can include a Mac or Windows device or an iPad. You are not allowed to use a personal Chromebook. Your device must also be able to connect to Wi-Fi and be charged enough to stay on for roughly 3 hours. We recommend you bring a power cord or portable charger, but we can’t guarantee you’ll have access to an outlet. You’re permitted to bring an external mouse for your device and an external keyboard if your device is a tablet. You can’t use detachable device privacy screens. All other applications and programs must be closed during the test.
Only complete this form if you do not have a personal device or if your personal device does not meet the above qualifications. The deadline to complete this form is September 29th.
Orchestra and Choir Concert:
On Friday, October 6th, the MLWGS Orchestra and Chorus will be presenting our Fall Concert at 7:00 pm in the auditorium. Dinner will be served to the chorus and orchestra students at 5:30 pm. (thanks Music Boosters!) Performers should wear “concert black”.
Winter Sports
Any athlete interested in playing a Winter sport starting on November 7th must have a current VHSL physical and all paperwork, https://mlwgs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/3333_001-2.pdf Once completed please send to [email protected] as a one-page PDF file.
Science National Honor Society
The Science National Honor Society is now accepting applications! Eligible Juniors and Seniors are invited to apply (please see application for eligibility requirements). The deadline to submit an application is Friday, October 6, and late submissions will not be accepted. Please reach out to Ms. Gawne with any questions ([email protected]).
Application: https://forms.gle/seGYKP8xsjn7BjHe8
Spanish Tutoring
Spanish tutoring is available Monday-Thursday during lunch in room 240. Students from all levels are welcome to attend, whether they need practice with conjugation, vocabulary, writing, or conversation! Our Spanish Honor Society tutors don’t bite and they’re ready to help.
Math Tutoring
The Mathematics Tutoring Lab is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. in Room 202. Ms. Lasswell and members of Mu Alpha Theta are available to help students understand mathematics concepts, strengthen mathematical connections, and practice important problem-solving skills. In addition, Mu Alpha Theta offers lunchtime tutoring on Mondays and Wednesdays, 11:45-12:15, in Room 201.
From the Library
Walking the Camino de Santiago: Lunchtime Panel on Monday, 10/2
This past summer, two MLWGS teachers, Mr. Adam Rotche (Science) and Ms. Celie Boswell (English), each took different journeys on the Camino de Santiago. Ms. Amanda Lemco walked the Camino back in 2014. Come to the library during lunch on 10/2 to hear insights and reflections from each of them about what they experienced.
Open Mic in the Black Box on Wednesday, 10/4
Since lunchtime open mics were a hit last year, the MLWGS Library will host four in 2023/2024 – and the first one is on Wednesday, Oct. 4th . Sign up to share – in no more than 4 minutes – a poem, monologue, or song. You may read/perform original work or a favorite by someone else. If time there are more sign-ups than time, original work will take priority. Readings should be school appropriate and no more than 4 minutes in duration. Please time yourself when you practice so you respect the time limit – one way to show your respect to other readers.
European Trip
Want to take a wonderful tour of Europe? Enroll today in the Educational Tour to Madrid, Paris, and London, the Multicultural Experience during Summer of (June/July) 2024. Here’s a sneak peek of the itinerary: https://www.eftours.com/eliterature/etus/dbd/u/d47c-dbd-mp.pdf
Click here to enroll: https://www.eftours.com/2626047em
See Ms. Cobb or Ms. Lee if you have any questions.
Yearbook:
Don’t forget to buy your 2024 Yearbook! Lock in the best pricing of the year before Oct. 7, when prices go up. Just go to https://yearbookordercenter.com/, enter our school’s order number (it’s 14632), and follow the easy prompts. Don’t delay! Operators are standing by.
The Foundation’s Parent Participation Competition is Underway!
The Foundation’s Annual Fund Campaign supports many of the amazing academic and extracurricular experiences that set MLWGS apart, including our academic clubs and teams, student travel, teacher professional development, student aid, and more. This year’s annual fund goal is $375,000. Parent support is key!
The Annual Fund Parent Participation Campaign is a friendly (but fierce, lol!) competition that recognizes the class with the highest percentage of parents making annual fund donations each year. All donations of any size count. And each year, the winning class gets bragging rights and a sweet treat in June courtesy of the Foundation! It’s the perfect time to show your support for MLWGS and your Dragon’s class by making your gift online today.
Orchestra:
We are pleased to announce that following students auditioned and were accepted into this year’s Senior Regional Orchestra: Gabriel Harding (who is this year’s concertmaster!), Grace Yoo, Fielding Teague, Chris Qian, Keira Kim, Yamato Motai, Reese Wu, Ally Lichtman, Peter Yanovitch, and Peize Wang. These students will be representing Maggie Walker at the Senior Regional Orchestra event on November 10 and 11th at Harrisonburg High School.
If you see any of these students, please congratulate them- this is a big deal!
Let me sign off tonight with some more words from the great American statesman Abraham Lincoln. Mr. Lincoln said, “We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection.”
Have a great week and GO DRAGONS!!
092423
MLWGS will be closed tomorrow, Monday September 25th in observance of Yom Kippur. School will re-open on Tuesday September 26th.
Attention Sophomore and Junior families!
PSAT Day will take place on Wednesday, October 11th starting at 8:40. The PSATs will be digital this year to prepare students for digital SATs in Spring 2024. It is important for families to review the MLWGS Digital PSAT Information to prepare for test day.
You are allowed to use your personal device for testing. Personal devices can include a Mac or Windows device or an iPad. You are not allowed to use a personal Chromebook. Your device must also be able to connect to Wi-Fi and be charged enough to stay on for roughly 3 hours. We recommend you bring a power cord or portable charger, but we can’t guarantee you’ll have access to an outlet. You’re permitted to bring an external mouse for your device and an external keyboard if your device is a tablet. You can’t use detachable device privacy screens. All other applications and programs must be closed during the test.
Only complete this form if you do not have a personal device or if your personal device does not meet the above qualifications. The deadline to complete this form is September 29th.
From the Clinic:
As we approach cold and flu season, and with COVID-19 cases increasing, here are a few reminders about when a student should stay home:
A student should be free of these symptoms for at least 24 hours before returning to school.
Questions? Contact our school nurse [email protected]
The Security Corner
Please do not prop open doors at any time. Do not open exterior doors for anyone during the school day or after school. All entries to the building must pass through security in the Bluestone Lobby.
All requests to open the athletic field or gym must go through Athletics rather than Security.
Science National Honor Society
The Science National Honor Society is now accepting applications! Eligible Juniors and Seniors are invited to apply (please see application for eligibility requirements). The deadline to submit an application is Friday, October 6, and late submissions will not be accepted. Please reach out to Ms. Gawne with any questions ([email protected]).
Application: https://forms.gle/seGYKP8xsjn7BjHe8
Spanish Tutoring
Spanish tutoring is available Monday-Thursday during lunch in room 240. Students from all levels are welcome to attend, whether they need practice with conjugation, vocabulary, writing, or conversation! Our Spanish Honor Society tutors don’t bite and they’re ready to help.
Math Tutoring
The Mathematics Tutoring Lab is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. in Room 202. Ms. Lasswell and members of Mu Alpha Theta are available to help students understand mathematics concepts, strengthen mathematical connections, and practice important problem-solving skills. In addition, Mu Alpha Theta offers lunchtime tutoring on Mondays and Wednesdays, 11:45-12:15, in Room 201.
From the Library
Need Community Service Hours? Come to the Library on 9/27 to Participate in the Kickoff Transcribe-a-thon for 2023-2024
On Wednesday, Sep. 27th from 3:30 to 5pm, the MW Library will host its first Transcribe-a-thon for this school year, an opportunity to decode historic documents into searchable digital versions for the benefit of historians, scholars, genealogists, and other researchers. Ms. Sonya Coleman from the Library of Virginia will be here to share exciting project updates. Enjoy free sweet treats and get Library of Virginia bling this annual kickoff event. Once you participate in-person, you’ll have the option to continue earning community service hours (up to a max of 35 hours) by transcribing historic documents online from anywhere (as long as you provide the required documentation). Interested? Sign in to your GSGIS Google account & then sign up for this year’s team!
Walking the Camino de Santiago: Lunchtime Panel on Monday, 10/2
This past summer, two MLWGS teachers, Mr. Adam Rotche (Science) and Ms. Celie Boswell (English), each took different journeys on the Camino de Santiago. Ms. Amanda Lemco walked the Camino back in 2014. Come to the library during lunch on 10/2 to hear insights and reflections from each of them about what they experienced.
Swim Team
Splish, Splash! Have you swum summer league? Do you love being a part of a winning team? Come to the swim team interest meeting on Wednesday the 27th in room 112. We will be discussing the upcoming season as well as information on the team and team-bonding events. There will be many sweet treats for those in attendance. We hope to see you there!
Costa Rica Trip
Would you like to travel to Costa Rica to learn more about the culture and practice your Spanish?
An educational trip has been proposed and we are waiting for Board approval. If you are interested in getting information about it, please fill out the following form to get information once it has been approved. Thank you!
Mrs. Bradner
Let me sign off tonight with some words from President Abraham Lincoln. Mr. Lincoln says “Character is like a tree and reputation like a shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing.”
Have a great week and GO DRAGONS!!
091723
1st Quarter Interims
Although we no longer print paper copies of interim grades, This past Friday was the halfway point of the 1st marking period. Please take a few moments and look at your student’s progress and grades in PowerSchool to make sure that you are up to speed on how they are doing. If you have any questions, please feel free to email your student’s teachers.
Math Tutoring
The Mathematics Tutoring Lab is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. in Room 202. Ms. Lasswell and members of Mu Alpha Theta are available to help students understand mathematics concepts, strengthen mathematical connections, and practice important problem-solving skills. In addition, Mu Alpha Theta offers lunchtime tutoring on Mondays and Wednesdays, 11:45-12:15, in Room 201.
Visual Arts
The first Visual Art Booster meeting of the year will take place this coming Tuesday night, Sept. 19 from 5:00 to 6:00 in the Art room (131). Parents interested in supporting the visual arts at MLWGS are encouraged to attend.
MLWGS Drama Department
Calling all student actors! Auditions for the fall play, Snow Angel, by David Lindsay-Abaire, will be held after school on Monday, September 18th, in the auditorium. Interested students can find more information, including the audition signup form, on the Drama Club Schoology page.
About the play:
When the quiet town of Deerpoint VT is hit by the biggest blizzard in 107 years, a mysterious girl named Eva steps out of a snowbank and into the lives of 15 confused teenagers who are asked to help her in her search. What Eva’s searching for—and who she truly is—becomes a mystery that baffles, divides, and energizes the teens of Deerpoint. Told through journal entries and interactions among the students over the course of a single snow day, Snow Angel is a funny and eerie tale of teen angst, discovery, and the power of believing.
Seniors!
The people have spoken, and their collective voice has been heard. Lifetouch/Prestige will visit MLWGS one final time, on Monday, Sept. 18, to shoot formal Yearbook senior portraits, free of charge. If you couldn’t get a time slot for the Sept. 7 session, this is your chance to save your bacon! Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0E4CACAE28A0FD0-2024
Costa Rica Trip
Would you like to travel to Costa Rica to learn more about the culture and practice your Spanish?
An educational trip has been proposed and we are waiting for Board approval. If you are interested in getting information about it, please fill out the following form to get information once it has been approved. Thank you!
Mrs. Bradner
MLWGS Bhangra
The MLWGS Bhangra Team competed this Sunday at the Festival of India and danced their way to first place in their age category! The team received a trophy and a check for their achievement. Congratulations to Captains Sania Jain, Bharathi Kancharla, and Nithya Ravula; Vice Captains Hasika Aaravabhoomi and Tanvi Palavalas; and team members Aditya Badhrayan, Sadie Hall, Ira Prakash, Rachael Sharon-Gupta, and Sowmya Narra. Keep up the great work and we look forward to MLWGS Bhangra Team’s next performance at Fall Festival!
Remember, we are here to be compassionate, courageous, collaborative, and to have a sense of community. It is The Walker Way.
Have a great week and GO DRAGONS!!
091023
TJ National History Honor Society
The TJ National History Honor Society will have an interest meeting Wednesday, September 13, 2023, in the forum during lunch. Come find out about membership requirements and discover the benefits of being in the honor society:
-Connect with fellow history enthusiasts
-Participate in community service projects
-Enhance your academic and leadership skills
-Gain recognition for your passion for history
National Honor Society Applications (Due Monday, 9/11)
Are you interested in joining the Maggie Walker Chapter of National Honor Society? The NHS online application for the 2023-2024 school year is now open: https://forms.gle/jNrqsNp9jsTrHPSEA
Interested Juniors and Seniors may apply for membership through 11:59pm on Monday, September 11th. Eligible students are current juniors or seniors with a 3.5 GPA (cumulative, weighted) who are considered “on track” to fulfill their community service requirement (70 hours for juniors and 105 hours for seniors).
National Honor Society is an organization that fosters scholarship, service, leadership and character. We encourage our members think of ways to improve the school and community, and members support each other in helping make their ideas for service projects become reality.
Please view the application link for all of the pertinent details of the application process, dues, and membership expectations. Contact Dr. Rachel Loving, NHS Sponsor, with questions at [email protected].
Note: Juniors and seniors who were admitted last year do not need to apply again.
Applications to join the National English Honor Society (NEHS) are now open!
Calling all Juniors and Seniors who have a strong affinity for English/Language Arts! Whether your interests lie in literature, creative writing, media studies, journalism, literary analysis, composition, or any facet of the written or spoken word, we extend a warm invitation to join the ranks of NEHS.
To apply, please click here.
For any questions, contact Ms. Love ([email protected]) or Ms. LeCroy ([email protected]).
Security Corner:
Senior off campus lunch began September 8. Completed off campus lunch forms accepted Monday through Thursday throughout the year.
Please check the lost and found box often! Lose something of value? Check with Security. Items not claimed after approximately 2 weeks are donated or thrown away!
Please do not hit, kick, pound, vandalize, or otherwise harass vending machines. These do not belong to the school, and vendors will hold you liable for any damages. If you have lost money, please see Ms. Bowman in Attendance with details.
Reminder: Please do not prop or open exterior doors for anyone…even if you know them. All persons must enter and exit through the Bluestone lobby. (Certain exceptions)
Great year so far! Keep up the good work!
Seniors!
The people have spoken, and their collective voice has been heard. Lifetouch/Prestige will visit MLWGS one final time, on Monday, Sept. 18, to shoot formal Yearbook senior portraits, free of charge. If you couldn’t get a time slot for the Sept. 7 session, this is your chance to save your bacon! Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0E4CACAE28A0FD0-2024
From the Foundation:
Night of the Dragon Volunteers Wanted
The MLWGS Foundation is hosting a kick-off meeting for anyone interested in helping with the 2024 Night of the Dragon at noon on Wednesday, Sept. 14, in Room 153. Volunteers are needed in many areas, including overall event planning and execution, communications, solicitations and sponsorships, decorating and entertainment. NOTD is MLWGS’ largest annual fundraiser and social event and volunteers are the key to its success. Want to help but can’t make the meeting, just let Ginger know at [email protected].
Maggie Walker Athletics will have online tickets only for all events. You will be able to buy your tickets in advance and will process the final steps when you arrive at the gate. Below is the site where you can find all sales.
https://gofan.co/app/school/VA7818
Want to take a wonderful tour of Europe?
Register for the upcoming info session for the Educational Tour to Madrid, Paris, and London, the Multicultural Experience during Summer of 2024!
This trip will fill up fast, so please register for our virtual informational webinar where we’ll discuss:
Virtual meeting date: Wednesday, September 13th at 6 PM
Location: Virtual on ZOOM! Registering is mandatory so that you are able to receive that link and attend!
Click here to Register for the info meeting: https://bit.ly/45tJjSM
Twenty-two years ago tomorrow, Americans woke and began their daily routines. They were little aware at the time, that September 11th, 2001 would become a turning point in American History. The attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and the plane crash in Pennsylvania resulted in the loss of 2,977 lives. Since 2001 we as Americans have tried to make sense of this tragedy.
The results of 9-11 are many; changes in the basic structure of our government, severe economic challenges, and the important debate about the balance between our individual rights and our desire to be safe. While some of you may not have been born when these events happened, they affect you deeply whether you realize it or not.
So this week, as our country recalls this tragedy, ask those who are close to you the true meaning of these events and how the world changed for them. Understanding their answers is key to understanding the world in which you live.
“If we learn nothing else from this tragedy, we learn that life is short and there is no time for hate.” — Sandy Dahl, wife of Flight 93 pilot Jason Dahl.
Have a great week and GO DRAGONS!!
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School will be closed tomorrow September 4th in observance of Labor Day. School will re-open on Tuesday September 5th.
Back to School Night:
Back to School Night is Thursday, September 7th between 6:30 – 9:00 pm
Important Notes:
Students are asked to fill out their schedule and give it to their parents.
Back to School Night is for parents and guardians. Students are NOT encouraged to attend.
Plan to arrive by 6:15 PM. because school parking lots fill up quickly. Leave additional time for parking. We have lost our overflow parking lot due to the construction of apartments and condos on the old James River Bus lot. We are trying to find some overflow parking spaces, but at the time of posting this message, we have been unable to secure a lot. If we can get a lot before the event, a separate message will be sent with that information. We understand the significant inconvenience that this creates, but it is beyond our control.
Parents should report to the school auditorium no later than 6:30 p.m. for the first PTSA meeting of the year. A welcome, maps, and directions for the evening will be provided. Students should provide their schedule to their parents to follow.
Each class session will last for ten minutes, and a bell will signal the transition to the next class. Parents will have five minutes between classes.
Teachers will be providing specific information about their classes, not about individual students.
Parent-teacher conferences will take place virtually on November 6th during which time parents may discuss their child’s individual progress. More information regarding these conferences will be forthcoming.
From the School Nurse:
Please turn in any allergy, asthma, or other health concern paperwork and any medication authorization to the school nurse ASAP.
Email [email protected] if you have questions about what paperwork is needed.
Policy and Notifications:
You can find all the policies and regulations of the school on its website. These policies and regulations are updated by the Regional School Board from time to time. If you don’t have online access, you can request copies of the policies and regulations from the school board clerk.
Required Notifications are maintained on the school website and available for viewing at any time. This notice is provided at the start of each school year.
Notifications can also occasionally be updated from the Regional School Board as needed by Code of Virginia modification.
National Honor Society Applications (Due Monday, 9/11)
Are you interested in joining the Maggie Walker Chapter of National Honor Society? The NHS online application for the 2023-2024 school year is now open: https://forms.gle/jNrqsNp9jsTrHPSEA
Interested Juniors and Seniors may apply for membership through 11:59pm on Monday, September 11th. Eligible students are current juniors or seniors with a 3.5 GPA (cumulative, weighted) who are considered “on track” to fulfill their community service requirement (70 hours for juniors and 105 hours for seniors).
National Honor Society is an organization that fosters scholarship, service, leadership and character. We encourage our members think of ways to improve the school and community, and members support each other in helping make their ideas for service projects become reality.
Please view the application link for all of the pertinent details of the application process, dues, and membership expectations. Contact Dr. Rachel Loving, NHS Sponsor, with questions at [email protected].
Note: Juniors and seniors who were admitted last year do not need to apply again.
Applications to join the National English Honor Society (NEHS) are now open!
Calling all Juniors and Seniors who have a strong affinity for English/Language Arts! Whether your interests lie in literature, creative writing, media studies, journalism, literary analysis, composition, or any facet of the written or spoken word, we extend a warm invitation to join the ranks of NEHS.
To apply, please click here.
For any questions, contact Ms. Love ([email protected]) or Ms. LeCroy ([email protected]).
Seniors!
The people have spoken, and their collective voice has been heard. Lifetouch/Prestige will visit MLWGS one final time, on Monday, Sept. 18, to shoot formal Yearbook senior portraits, free of charge. If you couldn’t get a time slot for the Sept. 7 session, this is your chance to save your bacon! Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0E4CACAE28A0FD0-2024
Student Handbook Test: Parents, please encourage your student to take the Student Handbook Test by 9/5/23
Instructions for students:
This is a test for the Maggie L. Walker Gov.’s School Handbook. Mastery is considered 80%. You may use only your student handbook to take this test. When you submit this test you have acknowledged the school honor code. You have unlimited opportunities to reach mastery of this test. You must complete the test by 9/5/23 (11 P.M.) You will be locked out after that time. Don’t wait until the last hour to start. If this is not successfully completed by the deadline, frequent communication with you and your parents will take place until an 80% or higher is achieved.
Secret Word= Dragons
REQUIRED:
Please type your student ID # from Powerschool when prompted
(Not sure what it is? It can be found on Powerschool on the front page of the Student or Parent Portal; hint: this begins with your graduation year.)
Your results will not be counted if this item is not filled in.
Maggie Walker Athletics will have online tickets only for all events. You will be able to buy your tickets in advance and will process the final steps when you arrive at the gate. Below is the site where you can find all sales.
https://gofan.co/app/school/VA7818
Yearbook:
Tues-Wed, Sept. 5-6, will be your LAST CHANCE to pick up your FREE 2023 Yearbook Spring Supplement. Mr. White will be in the SOPHOMORE/JUNIOR COMMONS at lunch. All sophomores, juniors and seniors are invited to come pick up their supplements before they’re gone. (Alternatively, you can pick up a supplement from Mr. White any time in Room 330.)
Want to take a wonderful tour of Europe?
Register for the upcoming info session for the Educational Tour to Madrid, Paris, and London, the Multicultural Experience during Summer of 2024!
This trip will fill up fast, so please register for our virtual informational webinar where we’ll discuss:
Virtual meeting date: Wednesday, September 13th at 6 PM
Location: Virtual on ZOOM! Registering is mandatory so that you are able to receive that link and attend!
Click here to Register for the info meeting: https://bit.ly/45tJjSM
This fall our school is hosting a graduate student in the field of school counseling. Mr. Tristan Clodfelter will be partnering with MLWGS counselors and social worker Erin Ortiz during the first semester on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Prior to providing on-going individual counseling or facilitating groups, a permission form will be sent home for parent approval. As Mr. Clodfelter participates in classroom guidance or meetings related to the day-to-day activities of the Counseling Office, if you wish to opt out your student, please email senior/college counselor Kim Forquer at [email protected]. Here is a greeting and introduction from Mr. Clodfelter:
“Dragons, my name is Tristan Clodfelter, and I am thrilled to serve as an intern at the MLWGS Counseling Office. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Sociology from Western Carolina University. After my graduation, I surveyed different roles in the field of psychology including school behavior coach, camp coordinator, school day treatment technician, and childcare center director. Through these experiences, I found an interest in supporting student mental health in the school setting. As I have progressed in the field, I have set goals to improve my skills surrounding college navigation, socio-emotional development, mindfulness, and group facilitation. I am now pursuing my Master of Science in Counselor Education at East Carolina University to become a school counselor. I’m happy to be here as it will allow me to build up my experience in this new role in a unique environment. I am excited to be working in tandem with the MLWGS Counseling team, teachers, and parents/guardians to ensure student success.”
MLWGS Foundation Open House During Back to School Night
If you have questions about the MLWGS Foundation, want to know more about how you can get involved, or just need a place to relax during a free period in your Dragon’s schedule, swing by the Foundation Office (Room 225, across from the auditorium) during Back to School Night. Ginger will be there and happy to see you!
While I’m enjoying the last unofficial weekend of summer, I am surrounded by all the summer noises that I hear when I am at the river. It can be quite a symphony, but to quote E.B. White, “The crickets felt it was their duty to remind everyone that summer cannot last forever.” The firsts wisps of fall weather are coming as is the start of football games and bonfires. Farewell to summer and welcome to another beautiful fall!
Have a great week and GO DRAGONS!!
082723
Student Pick-up and Drop-Off:
AM Drop-off – Please drop students off in the back lot by the curb and do not block access to parking spots. Do not drop off students in the bus loop (the lot near Elizabeth Street) between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM.
PM Pickup – Please pick students up in the back lot. Do not enter the bus loop or the Lombardy St. Loop (under the big stairs) as both are bus pick-up locations. You will find yourself trapped by a bus that has its flashers on.
From the MLWGS School Social Worker:
As the doors have opened to greet our returning students for the 2023-2024 school year, I am sending a huge Welcome Back to you, too, parents/guardians and families! I hope you’ve had a summer full of adventure, relaxation, and anything else you needed to recharge before another year is underway. Last year, during my first short year at MLWGS, I had the opportunity to connect with many of you across grade levels – for those of you I have yet to meet, my name is Erin Ortiz and I am the school social worker at Maggie Walker. I’m also a proud alum from the class of 2006 and it seems this place will always feel like home. Here at MLWGS, I provide intervention when situations arise around mental health needs, attendance concerns, school-based plans/504 plans/IEPs, manage the mindfulness room, collaborate with our faculty to roll out classroom lessons for SOS (Signs of Suicide), work alongside staff members to facilitate mindfulness activities, and sponsor SCA as well as the club Bring Change 2 Mind. I wanted to send out another gentle reminder about the importance of attendance… everyday counts! Looking forward to another exciting year and sending you all well wishes as we embark on the 23-24 school year together!
All my best,
Ms. Ortiz
School Social Worker
Study Halls:
All students are expected to remain on campus during study halls unless written permission from a parent is given to leave early or arrive late.
National Honor Society Applications (Due Monday, 9/11)
Are you interested in joining the Maggie Walker Chapter of National Honor Society? The NHS online application for the 2023-2024 school year is now open: https://forms.gle/jNrqsNp9jsTrHPSEA
Interested Juniors and Seniors may apply for membership through 11:59pm on Monday, September 11th. Eligible students are current juniors or seniors with a 3.5 GPA (cumulative, weighted) who are considered “on track” to fulfill their community service requirement (70 hours for juniors and 105 hours for seniors).
National Honor Society is an organization that fosters scholarship, service, leadership and character. We encourage our members think of ways to improve the school and community, and members support each other in helping make their ideas for service projects become reality.
Please view the application link for all of the pertinent details of the application process, dues, and membership expectations. Contact Dr. Rachel Loving, NHS Sponsor, with questions at [email protected].
Note: Juniors and seniors who were admitted last year do not need to apply again.
Applications to join the National English Honor Society (NEHS) are now open!
Calling all Juniors and Seniors who have a strong affinity for English/Language Arts! Whether your interests lie in literature, creative writing, media studies, journalism, literary analysis, composition, or any facet of the written or spoken word, we extend a warm invitation to join the ranks of NEHS.
To apply, please click here.
For any questions, contact Ms. Love ([email protected]) or Ms. LeCroy ([email protected]).
Seniors!
The people have spoken, and their collective voice has been heard. Lifetouch/Prestige will visit MLWGS one final time, on Monday, Sept. 18, to shoot formal Yearbook senior portraits, free of charge. If you couldn’t get a time slot for the Sept. 7 session, this is your chance to save your bacon! Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0E4CACAE28A0FD0-2024
Student Handbook Test: Parents, please encourage your student to take the Student Handbook Test by 9/5/23
Instructions for students:
This is a test for the Maggie L. Walker Gov.’s School Handbook. Mastery is considered 80%. You may use only your student handbook to take this test. When you submit this test you have acknowledged the school honor code. You have unlimited opportunities to reach mastery of this test. You must complete the test by 9/5/23 (11 P.M.) You will be locked out after that time. Don’t wait until the last hour to start. If this is not successfully completed by the deadline, frequent communication with you and your parents will take place until an 80% or higher is achieved.
Secret Word= Dragons
REQUIRED:
Please type your student ID # from Powerschool when prompted
(Not sure what it is? It can be found on Powerschool on the front page of the Student or Parent Portal; hint: this begins with your graduation year.)
Your results will not be counted if this item is not filled in.
Locker Request Form
Beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, lockers will be provided to students upon request. If no locker request form is submitted, a student will not be assigned a locker. Please submit this form no later than Friday, September 15. The Facilities Department will assign you a locker and provide the combination. This will appear on the demographics tab of your Schoology account within 2 business days. If you request a locker, this will be your assigned unit for your entire time at MLWGS. Requests for transfers will be handled during the first month of the school year.
Maggie Walker Athletics will have online tickets only for all events. You will be able to buy your tickets in advance and will process the final steps when you arrive at the gate. Below is the site where you can find all sales.
https://gofan.co/app/school/VA7818
Want to take a wonderful tour of Europe?
Register for the upcoming info session for the Educational Tour to Madrid, Paris, and London, the Multicultural Experience during Summer of 2024!
This trip will fill up fast, so please register for our virtual informational webinar where we’ll discuss:
Virtual meeting date: Wednesday, September 13th at 6 PM
Location: Virtual on ZOOM! Registering is mandatory so that you are able to receive that link and attend!
Click here to Register for the info meeting: https://bit.ly/45tJjSM
Class of 2027 Parent Welcome Receptions This Week sponsored by the GS Foundation
This year’s Class of 2027 Parent Welcomes are being held this Tuesday and Wednesday at the Libbie Mill Clubhouse, not far from MLWGS. Thanks to everyone who has already RSVP’d. If you have not, please RSVP here now so we can plan for a fun evening. We look forward to seeing you there and partnering with you to support all our amazing MLWGS students and teachers for the next four years and beyond.
Let me sign off tonight with some words from the late great blues musician B.B. King. He said, “The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.”
Have a great week and GO DRAGONS!!
08/20/23
Good Evening MLWGS Family, this is Dr. Lowerre the Director with the First Sunday Night Update for the 23-24 school year!
Every Sunday evening at about 7:00, you will receive a message from me with a link to my blog letting you know about upcoming events in the Dragon Nation. You will hear about parent meetings, community events, upcoming deadlines, and some student activities. With over 150 sports, clubs, and activities, I can’t get to all of them, but I will try to highlight the ones that are of interest to the majority of students and families. You can also keep up with what’s going on at MLWGS by checking out the School’s webpage at MLWGS.com.
As we get ready for our start on Monday August 21st, let me begin with some housekeeping items:
https://mlwgs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Student-Handbook-2022-2023-web.pdf
Student Handbook Test: Parents, please encourage your student to take the Student Handbook Test by 9/5/23
Instructions for students:
This is a test for the Maggie L. Walker Gov.’s School Handbook. Mastery is considered 80%. You may use only your student handbook to take this test. When you submit this test you have acknowledged the school honor code. You have unlimited opportunities to reach mastery of this test. You must complete the test by 9/5/23 (11 P.M.) You will be locked out after that time. Don’t wait until the last hour to start. If this is not successfully completed by the deadline, frequent communication with you and your parents will take place until an 80% or higher is achieved.
Secret Word= Dragons
REQUIRED:
Please type your student ID # from Powerschool when prompted
(Not sure what it is? It can be found on Powerschool on the front page of the Student or Parent Portal; hint: this begins with your graduation year.)
Your results will not be counted if this item is not filled in.
Locker Request Form
Beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, lockers will be provided to students upon request. If no locker request form is submitted, a student will not be assigned a locker. Please submit this form no later than Friday, September 15. The Facilities Department will assign you a locker and provide the combination. This will appear on the demographics tab of your Schoology account within 2 business days. If you request a locker, this will be your assigned unit for your entire time at MLWGS. Requests for transfers will be handled during the first month of the school year.
Security Corner:
Welcome back Dragons!
Seniors, If you have not received your parking pass, distribution will re-start after the first full week of school. Please ensure that all applications and parking fees have been taken care of, and then e-mail [email protected] to schedule time.
Parents, if you are picking up students in the student lot after school, please wait for your passenger(s) in an empty parking space or along the curbs. Please DO NOT line up in the rows as this prevents seniors from leaving on time for after-school jobs and events.
Please do not attempt to drive into the Bluestone parking lot to park, visit or pick up students between 2:40pm and 3:40pm. This space is reserved for busses only during that window.
Thank you! We’re looking forward to another awesome year!
Maggie Athletics will have online tickets only for all events. You will be able to buy your tickets in advance and will process the final steps when you arrive at the gate. Below is the site where you can find all sales.
https://gofan.co/app/school/VA7818
MWTech:
As part of a continuing effort to improve usability on our website, we’ll be making multiple important changes throughout the coming months. The first initiative was to review and update the information architecture in order to better align the content to the needs of our users. In addition to consolidating information (so users can find what they need without having to navigate through so many pages), there are now specific resources for Students and Parents, which include applicable content for each of those audiences. Updates have been posted and are viewable on the site: mlwgs.com.
Yearbook:
Students! The Yearbook staff can’t wait to hear all about how you spent your summer. Whether you traveled abroad or domestically, earned money at a job, volunteered in your community, competed athletically or musically, pursued hobbies, or just hung out alone or with friends, we want your pictures! Please note that we need pictures with you in them. A picture of the Eiffel Tower isn’t very interesting; a picture of you AT the Eiffel Tower is much more compelling! And it’s so easy to share them. Just go to hjeshare.com and enter our school’s code, which is mlwgs, and follow the prompts. It’s insultingly easy to use, and your images just might make it into the 2024 Yearbook! Questions? Email Mr. White at [email protected].
Class of 2027 Parent Welcome Reception RSVPs Due Wednesday
Each year, the Governor’s School Foundation kicks off the school year with the MLWGS Parent/Guardian Welcome reception. This is a great opportunity for you to meet other Class of 2027 parents, chat with current MLWGS parents, and hear brief remarks from Dr. Lowerre while enjoying dessert and drinks.
This year’s Parent Welcomes will take on the evenings of August 29 and 30 at the Libbie Mill Clubhouse, not far from MLWGS. Please RSVP here to attend the evening that works best for you.
The Foundation Board and volunteers look forward to seeing you there and partnering with you to support all our amazing MLWGS students and teachers for the next four years and beyond.
Let me end this week with a quote from an unknown author. “Every summer has a story” I hope that your summer has been full of wonderful stories. Have a great evening and as always Go Dragons!!
