February 10, 2023
Dear Great Falls Families,
It is hard to believe that the 100th day of school is approaching and will be on February 14th. The school year is half complete and we are so proud of our students and staff for their focus on our Code of Conduct and emphasis on learning. There are a few events and reminders that we wanted to take a moment to highlight.
Valentines for Staff: Time to share the love Gorham, and it only takes a minute! For those who wish to personally write notes of gratitude-cards, envelopes, and valentines card drop boxes will be available at the office of each school January 27-February 28, or scan the QR code or use the link https://bit.ly/3WHJzZm and have a card sent for you!
Wellness Procedure: We understand with Valentine’s Day on the horizon that your child may be excited to exchange a card or trinket with classmates. Just a friendly reminder that we do not use food for celebrations. The Gorham School District is committed to providing a healthy eating environment for all its students. We ask that parents do not send in any food for celebrations, such as birthdays and holidays to be shared in classrooms. This does not include the daily snacks that you send in for your own child, however, we encourage you to provide healthy options. Instead of food, students can participate in a variety of creative activities during holiday celebrations. Non-food tokens such as stickers or pencils can be used to celebrate birthdays while promoting a healthier school environment. We appreciate your partnership as we encourage wellness among our students.
Early Release on Wednesday, February 15th: Reminder that this day is an early release day for students. Students will be dismissed at 12:00 p.m. Please be sure to call the office at 222-1053 or email Rhonda Perkins at Rhonda.Perkins@gorhamschools.org if you have a change in your child’s pick-up plan.
Thursday, February 16th: Parent Connection Meeting with the Gorham School Committee at 5:30 p.m.
Join Great Falls administrators, Superintendent Perry, and members of the Gorham School Committee for a question and answer forum. The conversation can include district initiatives and future plans for the Gorham Schools. We will be meeting in the Great Falls cafeteria and hope that many of you will take advantage of this opportunity.
Friday, February, 17th: Full School Mad Science Assembly: To celebrate the hard work of our students, we are providing a special Mad Science assembly during the school day on Friday, February 17th. The theme will be Winter Wonder Lab and should be a fun experience!
Lost and Found: Lost and Found is, once again, overflowing at Great Falls. Please remind your child to take a look at the tables in the main foyer for their lost items. Parents, guardians, & caregivers are also welcome to stop by and take a look as well.
Dress for Winter: This is a reminder that all students should come to school with appropriate clothing for spending time outside each day. We recommend that students in grades K-5 wear a hat, gloves or mittens, boots, and a warm jacket to play outside. K-3 students should also pack snow pants if they plan on playing in the snow and in the fields. Those without the proper winter gear will be limited to the blacktop areas when snow is present in order to keep our students warm and dry. Please reach out if your child is in need of winter clothing essentials and we would be happy to help.
Great Falls Variety Show: Great Falls wants to celebrate the diverse talent of the students in our school! Students will be given the opportunity to audition for the show on Wednesday, March 1st. Mrs. Fortier and Ms. Tardif will pre-screen the talent to prepare for the show that will take place on March 24th. Students need to have their 1-minute minimum/2-minute max act stage-ready on March 1st in order to perform during the show on March 24th. Please bring any music, instruments, or props needed for your performance to the audition on March 1st. Ideas can include; singing, dancing, comedy, musical instruments, reciting a poem, etc… The variety show is scheduled for Friday, March 24th from 5:30-8:00pm. Depending on interest, we may have 2 sessions that night. All talent is welcome! We hope that many students will join in the fun. The last day to sign up is Friday, February 17th.
Illnesses in School: Superintendent Perry sent out an update to families regarding illnesses in school. As illnesses have been on the rise again recently, it is important to remember the precautions she shared. Superintendent Perry's Info.
School Calendar: 2022-23 Elementary School Colored Calendar
Winter Break: The winter school break will take place from February 20th-24th.
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us at any time at becky.fortier@gorhamschools.org or deanna.etienne@gorhamschools.org. Looking forward to a great finish to the second trimester!
Kindly,
Becky Fortier and Deanna Etienne
Great Falls Administrators
