We have had a great week back from spring break. Many of our seniors returned energized, having committed to their postsecondary schools and plans. Congratulations to each of them as they take this next step.
We also jumped right back into spring sports, even if the weather felt more like winter. I felt a little silly Tuesday night bringing a pom pom hat, gloves, and a blanket, but I ended up needing every bit of it. There is something about showing up together, even in the cold, that reminds you what this place is all about.
This week, we also had the opportunity to welcome our rising ninth graders and their families as they began course planning for next year. Thank you to all of our staff members, students, and families who supported that process and helped make our newest Dragons feel informed and at ease.
As I watched those families walk through our doors, I found myself thinking back to when I first came to Maggie Walker as a parent. I remember what it felt like to sit where they were sitting, excited, a little overwhelmed, and hopeful. What stood out then, and still does now, is the way this community shows up for one another. There was a sense of trust, of care, and of shared purpose that made me feel confident my child would be supported, challenged, and known. That feeling has stayed with me, and it is a big part of why I am here today.
We are nearing the midpoint of this final stretch, with interims coming next week. It is a good moment for all of us to check in, reflect, and stay focused on the work ahead.
We will close out the week this Friday, April 10th, from 7:00–8:00 PM with our Legislators Forum on Education and Civic Engagement, presented by the Maggie Walker Foundation Fellows as part of the Shamin Hotels Speaker Series.
This event is a powerful reminder of who we are as a school community. We are not only preparing students for what comes next, but also equipping them to engage, lead, and contribute in meaningful ways.
Go Dragons!
Warmly,
Kristin K. Janssen, Executive Director
Additional Announcements below:
Grandparents’ and Special Adults Day is May 1–Invitee Info Wanted: On the afternoon of Friday, May 1, the Governor’s School Foundation will host Maggie Walker’s annual Grandparents’ and Special Adults Day. Grandparents or other special adults of all current Dragons are invited to come to campus, hear a bit about our wonderful programs, enjoy some sweet treats, and take a tour with their grandchild(ren) at the end of the day.
If your Dragon would like to invite their grandparents/special guest, please fill out the Google form linked here TODAY so we can send invites before break. This year you can have the invite sent via email, snail mail, or picked up and delivered by your Dragon.
The event will begin at 2:30 pm with a short presentation in the auditorium, followed by a reception with the guests’ students at around 3:15 pm. Students are encouraged to show their guests some of their favorite spots around the school once the halls clear. The final shuttle will depart for the parking lot at 4 pm.
Important Parking Info: Because parking is very limited, we will be running a shuttle from a satellite lot tbd. Please consider dropping off and picking up your guests if this is problematic. More details about the location will be provided closer to the event.
Mandatory Senior Graduation Expectation Meetings: To participate in this year’s graduation ceremony, all students and parents/guardians must read, print out, and sign the Commencement Expectations Information and attend a mandatory Zoom meeting. These steps are required for eligibility to participate in the ceremony. Wednesday, April 15, at 7:00 pm is the final date and time to attend.
Senior Cap & Gown Orders: Herff Jones visited MLWGS in mid-October to communicate instructions for ordering graduation-related items like caps and gowns using their online form. Unless otherwise indicated, regalia will be delivered to students at school on April 16 during lunch. If you did not place your order, you will need to contact Herff Jones directly at hjvirginia.com or Sales Rep Jay Roudabush [email protected]) ASAP to see what options remain available. Cap, gown, and tassel are required for participation in the graduation ceremony.
Textbook Review: The Social Studies Department is currently considering the adoption of a new textbook for our Honors US History course. The two textbooks currently being considered for adoption are The Unfinished Nation: A Concise History of the American People by Alan Brinkley, 10th edition, McGraw Hill Publishers, 2023 and The American Pageant by David M. Kennedy, 18th edition, Cengage Publishing, 2025. The textbooks, as well as evaluation forms, have been placed in the school library and will be available for constituents to critique up through April 23rd. If you have any questions regarding this process, then please feel free to reach out to the Dept. Chair via e-mail at [email protected].
Senior Group Photo: Lifetouch is coming to photograph the senior class in their caps and gowns on the front steps of Maggie Walker on Monday, April 27 during lunch. The line-up will take place on the 2nd floor hall by the auditorium at 11:40 AM. The cost is expected to be $18, and information about how to order a copy will be distributed this week. Unfortunately, no pictures may be purchased after April 27. FYI: These photos may not be delivered until AFTER graduation, so you may need to come to school to pick up your copy.
