GCS Students Present at National Service-Learning Conference

Pictured at the National Service-Learning Conference, from the left, are Charlos Banks, executive director of student services and character development; Erin Gamba, junior at Southwest High; Kinza Hussain, junior at Ragsdale High; Meenakshi Immaneni, senior at STEM Early College at N.C. A&T; and Rachel Scott, junior at Southwest High.

Students invited to share experiences as a model for educators around the world

"Greensboro, N.C. – Four Guilford County Schools students spent part of their spring break discussing how they benefit from GCS’ focus on character and service-learning with educators from around the country.

The four students were invited to give a presentation at this year’s National Service-Learning Conference in Minnesota. The conference brings together more than 1,500 national and international attendees who gain the tools, resources, ideas and support to improve their practice, their schools and their communities.

Meenakshi Immaneni, a senior at the STEM Early College at N.C. A&T, along with Kinza Hussain, junior at Ragsdale High, and Erin Gamba and Rachel Scott, both juniors at Southwest High, gave a presentation at the conference titled, “Service-Learning Everywhere!” The presentation highlighted how each student engages in service-learning opportunities in their schools and communities to make a difference as they prepare to move from classroom to college and career.

“It was truly been an honor to be able to attend the National Youth Leadership Council Conference and represent Guilford County Schools and the significant role our community plays in incorporating service learning throughout our clubs, curriculum and community,” says Hussain. “Not only did the conference create new opportunities for myself and others, it was also an unforgettable experience in which I gained an immense amount of knowledge about leadership and youth empowerment.”

Gamba was also invited to serve as the youth emcee at this year’s conference.

“Service learning is a valuable teaching method that extends learning experiences from the classroom out into our communities,” says Charlos Banks, executive director of student services and character development. “Our students are gaining knowledge and skills that will not only prepare them to be active citizens in our community, but also equip them with the tools needed to be successful in their college and career aspirations. We are extremely proud of our young people and have no doubt that they will positively transform our world.”

GCS students who will be in high school next year have the opportunity to continue their service over the summer. GCS is partnering with the Volunteer Center of Greensboro to host a Service-Learning Leadership Camp from June 27 to July 21. The program is designed to empower students to engage in service-learning experiences and impact their community during the summer months. Applications for the camp as well as scholarships for the camp are due by May 18.

Find more information about the Service-Learning Leadership Camp by clicking here.

About Guilford County Schools

Guilford County Schools, the third largest school district in North Carolina, serves nearly 72,000 K-12 students at 127 schools. With approximately 10,000 employees, GCS works alongside local parents, businesses and colleges to deliver an education that connects student interests and skills with the careers and economy of our future here and around the world. Guilford County is also a Say Yes to Education community, giving eligible GCS graduates the opportunity to apply for last-dollar tuition scholarships to attend any 2- or 4-year public institution in North Carolina. Combining choices to meet the individual educational needs for a culturally diverse citizenship and new opportunities makes our families say, “GCS, Yes!” For more information, visit the district’s website at www.gcsnc.com."

- A Press Release

Male Summit Coming Up for Dads, Father Figures

The third annual Guilford County Council of

PTAs Male Summit will take place March 19

"Greensboro, N.C. – The Guilford County Council of PTAs, in conjunction with Guilford Parent Academy and other community partners, is hosting its third annual Male Summit on Saturday, March 19 from 8 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Southwest Guilford  High, 4364 Barrow Road, High Point. Fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, neighbors and community members and their children are invited to attend to strengthen their skills as parent figures and help the children in their lives become successful.

The theme of the event is “Mentorship Excellence: Father Figures Empower Our Children.” Topics of discussion will include mentoring boys to become men, from ordinary to extraordinary, being a professional and more.

“With each summit we see results.” said Angel Guerrero, Guilford County Council of PTAs chair of male involvement. “These results include individuals committing to being a role model in their schools and communities.  Also we see more male groups forming in our Guilford County Schools.  Together the children, our leaders and community are blessed.”

The keynote speakers are Rick Brown, Director of Program Expansion for Children’s Home Society’s Family Life Education Services division and Rashard Jones, a graduate of North Carolina A & T State University and a part of Guilford County’s academic community since 2001. Other speakers will include retired Chief District Court Judge Lawrence McSwain, Family Tool Box creator Dr. Rodney Navey and speaker Nick McNeil.

This event is free. To register, click here or visit www.gcsnc.com and click on the Iisting in the Upcoming Events calendar. To learn more about Guilford Parent Academy, sign up for monthly updates or register for other free classes, visit www.gcsnc.com, email parentacademy@gcsnc.com or call 336-279-4924."

- A Press Release

Schools Recognized for Growth and Closing the Achievement Gap

Pictured from left to right, are Dr. Trent Vernon, Donna Reynolds,

Pamela Herndon and Maurice “Mo” Green.

General Greene Elementary, Jamestown Middle

Honored as PTEC Signature Schools

"Greensboro, N.C. – Two Guilford County Schools were recognized for making significant improvements in student education during the past year.

The Piedmont Triad Education Consortium (PTEC) named General Greene School of Science and Technology and Jamestown Middle School as Guilford County’s 2015-16 Signature Schools.

Pictured from left to right, are Kari Barrett, Terri Collins,

Beth Rigsbee and Maurice “Mo” Green.

Jamestown Middle showed the most growth of any GCS school. Dr. Trent Vernon, principal at Jamestown Middle, credits the school’s incredible growth on collaboration with teachers, students and parents.

“Administration understands the importance of empowering teachers, and the voice of the teacher is recognized, heard and valued at Jamestown Middle,” says Vernon. “Teachers must be empowered, but so must students and parents. Students take an active role in their learning, and parents are encouraged to join their student on his or her educational journey.”

General Greene was recognized for significantly closing the achievement gap between white and African-American students in reading proficiency (by about two-thirds) and math proficiency (by half).

“General Greene values experiential learning, both on and off campus. Through field trips, all students get exposed to the application of ideas being taught in the classroom,” says Principal Terri Collins. “Annual on-campus events, such as the General Greene State Fair and the Technology Fair bring experts to our campus from which students can learn. Thoughtful science instruction through experiments, kits and projects also helps build problem-solving skills.

“These schools are a great example of how both traditional and magnet schools are able to meet students where they are and help them get to where they need to be,” said Dr. Nakia Hardy, Chief Academic Officer for Guilford County Schools.

A complete list of Signature Schools from around the area can be found by clicking here.

About Guilford County Schools

Guilford County Schools, the third largest school district in North Carolina, serves nearly 72,000 K-12 students at 127 schools. With approximately 10,000 employees, GCS works alongside local parents, businesses and colleges to deliver an education that connects student interests and skills with the careers and economy of our future here and around the world. Guilford County is also a Say Yes to Education community, giving eligible GCS graduates the opportunity to apply for last-dollar tuition scholarships to attend any 2- or 4-year public institution in North Carolina. Combining choices to meet the individual educational needs for a culturally diverse citizenship and new opportunities makes our families say, “GCS, Yes!” For more information, visit the district’s website at www.gcsnc.com."

- A Press Release

GCS and Amplify Agree to Part Ways

GCS will begin looking for a new

tablet provider for 2016-17 school year

Greensboro, N.C. – Guilford County Schools and Amplify, Inc., have agreed to part ways by the end of this school year, according to an agreement approved by the school board this evening (Dec. 17).

The new deal allows both parties to exit the current agreement about two years early without incurring any penalties. It also frees GCS from any payment this school year, a savings of about $3.8 million in federal grant expenditures. The district will use the funds to keep the one-to-one program operating at all middle schools through the 2017-18 school year.

The district plans to issue a request for proposals for a new tablet supplier within the next two weeks. The goal is to have a new vendor on board this spring, with new devices in classrooms when school resumes next fall.

Rather than pursue an all-in-one solution as it did with Amplify, GCS plans to separate the device bid from any digital content, software and management services. The district also plans to purchase the devices rather than access them through a service contract.

“We’ve learned a lot of valuable lessons along the way and there’s more on the market now we can take advantage of than there was several years ago,” says Terrence Young, chief information officer. “Our goals remain the same: finding new and better ways of engaging and challenging students more actively in their own learning.”

Young said the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) also is providing more digital resources to public schools, reducing the need for some services previously supplied to GCS by Amplify.  

District officials anticipate staggering the re-start in middle schools next fall. Called Personalized Achievement Curriculum and Environment (PACE), the initiative is part of a $35 million grant GCS received from the U.S. Department of Education in 2013 following a national competition in 2012.  

“Technology is a necessary tool in classrooms today, and it’s important that all students have access to digital tools and resources, especially in a district like GCS where so many students may not have access at home,” says Robin Britt, director of instructional technology.

While technology puts new and better tools and resources into classrooms, the key to success isn’t the technology but the teachers and the students, according to Britt.

“Personalizing learning is about teachers and students working together to meet each student’s unique learning needs,” says Britt. “Technology and digital content are amazingly helpful, but are always secondary to the talents of our teachers and the growth of students as they learn to work more independently.  We’ve seen real magic for kids occur in our classrooms when all of these factors interact in new and powerful ways.”

GCS will start shipping its current tablets back to Amplify in May of 2016 when state testing begins. Amplify was sold by News Corp. in September, 2015.

“The federal grant we received was considered experimental for a reason,” noted Young. “While things clearly didn’t go as smoothly as we would have liked the first year, a lot of great work has been accomplished since then and our students have benefited as a result.”

About Guilford County Schools

Guilford County Schools, the third largest school district in North Carolina, serves nearly 72,000 K-12 students at 127 schools. With approximately 10,000 employees, GCS works alongside local parents, businesses and colleges to deliver an education that connects student interests and skills with the careers and economy of our future here and around the world. Guilford County is also a Say Yes to Education community, giving eligible GCS graduates the opportunity to apply for last-dollar tuition scholarships to attend any 2- or 4-year public institution in North Carolina. Combining choices to meet the individual educational needs for a culturally diverse citizenship and new opportunities makes our families say, “GCS, Yes!” For more information, visit the district’s website at www.gcsnc.com."

- A Press Release

Middle School Students Take Food Donation One Step Further

Students will donate PB&J at 9:30 Friday morning,

then work on a peanut butter recipe book

"Greensboro, N.C. – Students at Ferndale Middle aren’t just donating food to those who need it, but they’re also working to help teach people new ways to prepare it.

Guilford County Schools recently pledged to take on hunger and food insecurity in the community. Since then, Ferndale students collected 281 jars of peanut butter and jelly to donate to the Salvation Army, but they wanted to do more.

Thanks to a Gift of Giving grant from Four Seasons Town Centre, the students are able to take that one step farther and create a peanut butter and jelly recipe book that they will distribute to local agencies.

“This is a great chance to not only teach our students about hunger, but show them that there is something they can do about it,” says Dorie Hall, assistant principal at Ferndale Middle. “The recipe book allows them to get creative and will hopefully bring extra enjoyment to the people who receive it.”

The Salvation Army will stop by Ferndale Middle at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 11, to collect the peanut butter and jelly donations. The recipe books should be ready for distribution sometime in January.

Four Seasons Town Centre awarded 15 GCS schools with Gift of Giving Grants to help those students take their service learning projects a little farther. This year’s grants will support everything from school garden projects to buying supplies for cancer care kits."

- A Press Release

Naming of Smith High Gym Open for Comment

Board considers renaming the gym after 1969

graduate and NBA star Robert “Bob” McAdoo

Greensboro, N.C. – The community has 30 days to comment on a proposal to name the Smith High School Gymnasium after 1969 graduate Robert “Bob” McAdoo.

McAdoo played 14 seasons in the NBA where he was a five-time NBA All-Star and named the NBA Rookie of the Year in 1973 and NBA Most Valuable Player in 1975. He won two NBA championships in the 1980s and is a member of Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

In his nomination, Wade C. Nash wrote, “He is a role model for Ben L. Smith, the city of Greensboro, the state of North Carolina, and our country. McAdoo showed a commitment to excellence in delivering results that led to his many accomplishments.”

Another letter of support from one of McAdoo’s classmates, C. Michael Briggs wrote, “Bob McAdoo led Smith High School to the State Semi-finals in basketball in 1969. He was also the State Champion in the high jump that year and broke the state record by 4 inches. After two years of junior college Bob led the University of North Carolina Tar Heels to the NCAA Final Four. Bob was named first-team All American and the ACC Tournament MVP in 1972.”

The community is invited to comment on the nomination for the next 30 days via email to gcscomments@gcsnc.com or via courier or U.S. Mail to Western Region Office, GCS Attn: Naming of Smith High School Gymnasium, 900 English Road, High Point, NC, 27262.

Early College at Guilford Ranked Best Public High School in N.C.

Rankings from Niche place the Early College at

34^th best in the country

"The Early College at Guilford was ranked as the top public high school in North Carolina by Niche, a research company, and 34^th best in the country.

The company compiled the list by looking at academics, health and safety, the parent and student experience, student culture, diversity and more. In almost every category, the group combined statistics with testimonies from past and current parents and students to determine the overall rank.

“The Early College at Guilford community is honored by the number one ranking from Niche,” said Principal Linda Kidd. “I am particularly proud of our teachers for earning an A+ rating and the fact that student responders stated how much the teachers truly cared about them and wanted to see them accomplish great things.”

The Early College at Guilford students take honors and Advanced Placement courses their freshman and sophomore years before becoming dually enrolled at Guilford College as full-time college students, taking college courses with undergraduate students, their junior and senior years of high school.

It is one of 54 magnet and choice programs available to families through Guilford County Schools, ranging from arts education to STEM to Career and Technical Education programs. A variety of options gives every student the chance to find the program and learning environment that best suits his or her needs.

About Guilford County Schools

Guilford County Schools, the third largest school district in North Carolina, serves nearly 72,000 K-12 students at 127 schools. With approximately 10,000 employees, GCS works alongside local parents, businesses and colleges to deliver an education that connects student interests and skills with the careers and economy of our future here and around the world. Guilford County is also a Say Yes to Education community, giving eligible GCS graduates the opportunity to apply for last-dollar tuition scholarships to attend any 2- or 4-year public institution in North Carolina. Combining choices to meet the individual educational needs for a culturally diverse citizenship and new opportunities makes our families say, “GCS, Yes!” For more information, visit the district’s website at www.gcsnc.com."

- A Press Release

State Recognizes GCS Schools for High Graduation Rate

Ten schools recognized by State Superintendent on Tuesday

"Greensboro, N.C. – Ten Guilford County Schools were recognized by State Superintendent June Atkinson Tuesday for posting outstanding graduation rates for the 2014-15 school year.

Of the 10, nine were recognized for posting 100 percent graduation rates. They are: Greensboro College Middle College, Weaver Academy, The Academy at Smith, The Early College at Guilford, The Middle College at UNCG, Penn-Griffin School for the Arts, The Middle College at GTCC-Greensboro, The Middle College at N.C. A&T University and The Academy at High Point Central.

Northwest High was also recognized as one of the top two schools with the highest graduation rates in the state for its size, 400-499 graduates. Northwest had a graduation rate of 96.6 percent in 2015, one of 10 GCS schools that posted graduation rates of 90 or above, in addition to the nine that received 100 percent.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment for these schools and for Guilford County Schools,” says Superintendent Maurice “Mo” Green. “I am proud of the work we are doing to help every student reach this important milestone and grateful to the teachers, administrators and students who continue to push for excellence.”

The state recognized 11 North Carolina school districts and 60 schools for their graduation rates at Tuesday’s ceremony.

“I am so proud of the teachers, school counselors, coaches, principals and district leaders, and others who have worked tirelessly to make sure more students are graduating from North Carolina’s public schools than ever before. Their dedication and tenacity enabled the state to reach the all-time high graduation rate of 85.6 in 2014-15,” said State Superintendent June Atkinson. “As we honor the schools and districts that do an exceptional job keeping students in school and on track for graduation, I am hopeful that these award winners will continue to share best practices and serve as models for districts and schools across the state.”

This is the seventh consecutive year Guilford County Schools set a new record in terms of its high school graduation rate at 89.3 percent. For more details, click here.

About Guilford County Schools

Guilford County Schools, the third largest school district in North Carolina, serves nearly 72,200 K-12 students at 127 schools. With approximately 10,000 employees, the district’s mission is to graduate responsible citizens who are prepared to succeed in higher education or the career of their choice. Guilford County Schools is a national leader in providing specialized schools and instructional programs designed to meet the educational needs of a culturally diverse citizenship. For more information, visit the district’s website at www.gcsnc.com."

- A Press Release

Wells Fargo Grant to ArtsFund Creates Arts in Education Fund

Fund will support arts programs provided by local arts organizations for students in Guilford County Schools, such as cellist Shana Tucker’s Classical Music Across Cultures performances taking place in four GCS schools this week

Greensboro, N.C., September 21, 2015 — ArtsGreensboro announced today that the Wells Fargo Foundation has made a $40,000 grant to the 2016 ArtsFund campaign to establish the Wells Fargo Arts in Education Fund. This initiative will support arts programs provided by local arts organizations to students in Guilford County Schools.

“At Wells Fargo, we recognize that the arts are a vital part of the development of our youth and that students who have greater access to this curriculum do better in school—in all subject areas, “ said Clarence McDonald, Business Banking manager for Wells Fargo. “We’re honored to partner with ArtsGreensboro and the organizations it supports to bring the highest-quality arts experiences and enrichment programs into our local schools.”

“We are delighted that Wells Fargo has formalized its longstanding support of arts education by establishing this special fund,” said ArtsGreensboro President and CEO Tom Philion. “This will enable our arts organizations to routinely incorporate in-school experiences for students as they work with artists on a variety of projects. It further underscores Wells Fargo’s commitment to our children, also demonstrated by the bank’s sponsorship of the Family Area during the recent 75^th National Folk Festival.”

The first program implemented as part of the Wells Fargo Arts in Education Fund will be singer-songwriter/cellist Shana Tucker’s workshops and performances in four GCS schools on Tuesday, September 22, and Wednesday, September 23, before her public performance at The Crown at the Carolina Theatre on Wednesday evening, September 23. Presented by Classical Music Across Cultures as part of the 17DAYS Arts & Culture Festival, Tucker credits her genre-bending style to her jazz and classical roots interwoven with ‘80s and ‘90s pop, movie soundtracks, and world music.

“The Classical Music Across Cultures (CMAC) project arose from a passion to provide children of all backgrounds the opportunity to see and hear skilled musicians who look like them,” explained CMAC Project Coordinator Marta Richardson. “We know that children will be inspired when Shana Tucker performs at their schools, and we are so grateful to the Wells Fargo Arts in Education Fund for making her work in the schools possible.”

###

About Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a nationwide, diversified, community-based financial services company with $1.7 trillion in assets. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, Wells Fargo provides banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance through 8,700 locations, more than 12,500 ATMs, the internet (wellsfargo.com) and mobile banking, and has offices in 36 countries to support customers who conduct business in the global economy. With approximately 266,000 team members, Wells Fargo serves one in three households in the United States. Wells Fargo & Company was ranked No. 30 on Fortune’s 2015 rankings of America’s largest corporations. Wells Fargo’s vision is to satisfy our customers’ financial needs and help them succeed financially. Wells Fargo perspectives are also available at Wells Fargo Blogs and Wells Fargo Stories.

About Wells Fargo Community Relations – Triad and West Regions

Wells Fargo is proud to support nonprofits working to strengthen communities in the Triad and Western Regions of North Carolina. We share our success as a company and invest in many organizations through charitable contributions and the volunteerism and leadership of our team members. In 2014, Wells Fargo donated more than $3.1 million to nonprofits in the Triad West Region and our team members volunteered more than 20,000 hours. 

About ArtsGreensboro

With an annual budget of approximately $4 million, ArtsGreensboro is a catalyst for innovation to build recognition and support for the arts. Through its ArtsFund-supported grant programs, the 17DAYS Arts & Culture Festival, I HEART ARTS Month, and other opportunities including the National Folk Festival, ArtsGreensboro is driving the health and vitality of our community by supporting arts education, celebrating the diversity of Greensboro, and driving economic impact through excellence in arts programming. artsgreensboro.org"

-A Press Release

GCS High Schools Ranked Top in the Country

Newsweek ranks one school on top high schools

list and five more for “beating the odds.”

"Greensboro, N.C. – Six Guilford County Schools were recognized by Newsweek’s 2015 Top High Schools list, one on the general list and five on the magazine’s “Beating the Odds” list.

Northwest High was one of 15 schools in the state, and one of two in the Triad, ranked on Newsweek’s 2015 Top High School List. Northwest received additional recognition for economically disadvantaged students performing at or above the state average.

Another five schools made it onto the magazine’s Beating the Odds list of the nation’s top high schools. That list identifies schools that do an excellent job of preparing students for college while also serving a high percentage of students who live in poverty. Across the U.S., socioeconomic status is closely correlated with academic achievement.

The Middle College at Bennett was ranked 86th in the entire country, followed by The Academy at High Point Central, The Middle College at GTCC-High Point, The Middle College at GTCC-Greensboro and Grimsley High.

Each list includes 500 high schools of the approximately 22,000 in the country, putting GCS’ schools in the top three percent in the nation.

Between 2010 and 2014, The Middle College at Bennett graduated all of its students. An all-female, minority-majority school, Bennett students take both high school and college courses while enrolled and can earn transferable college credits before they graduate. Every student in the school’s class of 2015 also was accepted to a four-year college and received academic scholarships. In addition, the Middle College at Bennett was recognized in 2015 as A National School of Character.

“We encourage our students to set and meet high goals, and they know we are here to support them every step of the way,” says Middle College at Bennett Principal Esther Coble. “We’re building strong women and community leaders as well as strong students.”

Newsweek’s rankings were determined by six indicators:

·        College enrollment rate (25 percent)

·        Graduation rate (20 percent)

·        Weighted AP/IB/dual enrollment composite (17.5 percent)

·        Weighted SAT/ACT composite (17.5 percent)

·        Student retention (10 percent)

·        Counselor-to-student ratio (10 percent)

This is the third national list to recognize GCS schools for academic excellence. Earlier this year, U.S. News and World Report also recognized three GCS schools in its 2015 Best High School Rankings with national gold medal status, and the Washington Post named 15 GCS high schools as some of “America’s Most Challenging.” That list recognized schools for persuading a diverse group of students to take college level courses and exams.

The Washington Post rankings put the schools in the top 11 percent in the entire country, three were ranked in the top 10 for the state of North Carolina, and one school made the newspaper’s “Public Elite List.”

The recognition validates GCS’ efforts to encourage more students to not only graduate, but to challenge themselves academically before they do.

Research shows that just taking one AP, IB or college-level course in high school improves a student’s chance of success in college. In the class of 2015, more than third (37 percent) of graduates not only took but also passed an AP exam, IB exam or college-level course and associated exam.

Increasing student access to advanced academics and preparing students more successfully for college and career are main goals outlined in the district’s 2016 Strategic Plan – Achieving Educational Excellence: Personalized Learning."

- A Press Release

Board Approves Alternative Schools Accountability Model

Schools will be assessed on persistence, achievement and growth

"Greensboro, N.C. – Guilford County Schools’ alternative schools will be graded according to the state’s Alternative Schools Progress Model. The model was approved by the Guilford County Board of Education Tuesday night.

The state requires all districts to approve an accountability model for the 2015-16 school year by August 1. At its meeting, the board approved “Option C,” provided by the state, for all alternative schools (SCALE-Greensboro, Pruette SCALE-High Point and High School Ahead Academy) as well as the districts’ four special education schools (Gateway Education Center, Herbin-Metz Education Center, Haynes-Inman Education Center and Christine Joyner Greene Education Center).

“Option C” grades schools based on 20 percent persistence, or percentage of students who remain enrolled in any North Carolina public school through the end of the school year; 20 percent achievement, which will be based off of various test assessments and graduation rates; and 60 percent growth.

The option also assigns schools a change rating, which compares their score to the previous year. Schools will receive a progressing, maintaining or declining score.

The alternative schools do not receive a state-assigned Performance Grade because of the unique educational needs that they serve.

GCS’ special education schools will test another model over the next school year with the intent of replacing the state option with a local option to better evaluate the quality of education provided by those schools. In many cases the students have significant disabilities and are exempt from traditional assessments.

About Guilford County Schools

Guilford County Schools, the third largest school district in North Carolina, serves nearly 72,200 K-12 students at 127 schools. With approximately 10,000 employees, the district’s mission is to graduate responsible citizens who are prepared to succeed in higher education or the career of their choice. Guilford County Schools is a national leader in providing specialized schools and instructional programs designed to meet the educational needs of a culturally diverse citizenship. For more information, visit the district’s website at www.gcsnc.com."

- A Press Release

GCS Students Named State FFA Champions

Students will compete at national competition in October

"Greensboro, N.C. – Southern High Students were recognized for their understanding of state, national and international agricultural issues. The school’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter took first place at the state’s FFA convention, and will move on to compete in the national competition this October.

The competition asks the students to demonstrate the pros and cons of a current agricultural issue and present forums on their topic during the conventions. The Southern High students presented the topic: “U.S. Raised Chicken Exported to China for Processing.” For their research, students talked to Triad businesses, agricultural professors and state and federal legislators about everything from trade relations with China to food safety and consumer perception.

“I was worried the students wouldn’t be interested in legislative matters; however, they became very passionate about this topic since it affects consumers directly,” said advisor Melanie Griffin. “This event helped the students realize the influence government regulations have on U.S. citizens on a daily basis, and as a result, the students began encouraging their peers to become more knowledgeable about USDA and FDA policies. They also developed analytical and critical thinking skills that will help them in future careers and enable them to be informed citizens.”

The national competition will be held Oct. 28 – 31 in Louisville, Ky."

- A Press Release

Greater High Point Summer Reading Kick-Off

Kick-off event will be held on Friday, June 26

Greensboro – For the fourth year in a row, the Kiwanis Club of High Point has generously sponsored High Point students with an opportunity to enhance their reading skills and combat the summer slide. The summer reading program will be offered again to students who attend one of the various participating sites: Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater High Point, Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club-Cloverleaf, High Point LEAP, Macedonia Community Center and the Carl Chavis YMCA. The High Point community is extremely excited to have five schools offer their school’s computer labs: Fairview, Oak Hill, Parkview, Pruett Scale and Triangle Lake Montessori.

“We are excited to partner with Guilford County Schools to provide this opportunity for students to enhance their reading skills during the summertime,” said Claire Robinson, Kiwanis Club of High Point president, “Last year, over 700 students participated and read over 12,000 books. We are looking forward to increasing the number this summer.”

The kick-off event for the summer reading program for students and parents will be held on Friday, June 26, 2015 from 3 to 5 p.m. at Morehead Recreation Center. 102 Jamz will provide music and there will be a special appearance by Ronald McDonald. Through Book Time with Ronald McDonald, Ronald will highlight the importance of reading. Using magic, music, audience participation and storytelling, Ronald brings home five important lessons: Have some Book Time Every day, Books Are Our Friends, Explore the Library, Take Care of Books, and Read with Excitement.

Also, Johanna J. Smith will read an excerpt from her book, “Star Gazer, the Horse Who Loved History.” Smith combines her passionate love for children, horses and history in this moving story that emphasizes world peace.

The summer reading program uses the online computer based Reading Eggs-Reading Eggspress software designed to enhance the lives of school age children by providing them a hands-on interactive web-based reading experience. Each site will meet during the one hour designated time Monday through Thursday until August 7, 2015.

For more information or to register your child to participate, please visit one of the participating sites or feel free to contact Mrs. Lavonne Rosbor-Sanders, Western Region Student Services Administrator at 336-253-0720 to get registered online.

- a press release
 

GCS Students Succeed in Stock Market Game

Brenda Vazquez Garcia and Ismelda Dominguez Romero,

from Smith High, who won third place in the state’s

yearlong Stock Market Game.

Teams from Smith High, Northern Elementary and Aycock Middle take top spots in state-wide competition

"Greensboro, N.C. – Guilford County Schools (GCS) students are learning financial responsibility and finding new ways to use what they learn in class through the North Carolina Council on Economic Education’s (NCCEE) Stock Market Game™ (SMG) Competition. This year, a team from Smith High won third place in the yearlong high school competition and two schools took first place in the competition’s 2015 spring section.

The SMG is a statewide, interactive, online stock market simulation that teaches students in grades four through 12 about the financial markets and investing while reinforcing concepts taught in economics, math, technology, social studies, business and language arts classes.  Additionally, the program fosters the 21^st century skills of integrating technology, research, teamwork, negotiating, communication, cooperation and financial literacy.  Students also learn the importance of saving and investing at an early age.  Students invest a hypothetical $100,000 in stocks that they research, select and track while working in teams.  Students compete for awards regionally and statewide.

The team from Smith High came in third place for the state’s yearlong competition. They earned $125,692.65, a return of more than 22 percent. Senior Brenda Vazquez Garcia and sophomore Ismelda Dominguez Romero participated as part of their Principals of Business and Finance class.

Teams from Aycock Middle placed first and third in the Middle School division and Northern Elementary placed first and third in the Capitol Challenge Elementary School division. The challenge paired general assembly members to SMG teams in their home districts. Teachers signed up student teams to compete with nearly 1000 registered teams across North Carolina to win this honor.

“The Stock Market Game helps students build a basic understanding of investing while also providing them with real world skills in subjects like math, economics, social studies, language arts, business and other subjects,” says Mia Carter, business teacher at Aycock Middle. “Students learn how to work in and make decisions as part of a team.”   

Sandy Wheat of NCCEE explained, “We sponsor the Stock Market Game in North Carolina because research has proven it to be a challenging, motivating and extremely educational program that instills understanding of economic and financial concepts while improving critical-thinking skills and math test scores for students.”

About Guilford County Schools

Guilford County Schools, the third largest school district in North Carolina, serves nearly 72,200 K-12 students at 127 schools. With approximately 10,000 employees, the district’s mission is to graduate responsible citizens who are prepared to succeed in higher education or the career of their choice. Guilford County Schools is a national leader in providing specialized schools and instructional programs designed to meet the educational needs of a culturally diverse citizenship. For more information, visit the district’s website at www.gcsnc.com."

- A Press Release

Principals Appointed to Andrews High and Murphey Traditional Academy

"Greensboro, N.C. – Andrews High School and Murphey Traditional Academy will have new principals as of July 1.

David Miller will take the top spot at Andrews. He is currently the principal at the Academy at Smith which, under his leadership, has attained Honor School of Excellence status, was recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School and exceeded expected growth in 2014. Every year since he started in 2010-11, Miller’s school achieved a graduate rate above 95 percent and a 100 percent graduation rate in 2014 and 2015. In addition, he successfully increased the number of Advanced Placement course offerings and options for students.

He says he plans to host a series of meetings in the community and at the school to meet with Andrews’ students, parents and community stakeholders.

“My goals will be to focus on academic achievement and to build on the great legacy of T. Wingate Andrews,” says Miller. “I am honored to receive this appointment and I am committed to work hard on behalf of the students, faculty and staff of Andrews.”

Miller has served GCS since 1997 in various capacities including assistant principal and administrator for biology and CTE classes at Southeast High, assistant principal at Smith High and business teacher at Dudley High. He has worked in education since 1993.

“Mr. Miller is an outstanding leader who is focused on doing what is best for his students,” says Sandra Culmer, Western Region superintendent. “He has a strong vision for Andrews High and the drive and skills to see that vision come to life.”

Miller will replace current principal Rodney Wilds, who was recently named the new principal of Dudley High.

Cynthia White-Brown will transfer from Jones Elementary to Murphey Traditional Academy in July. During her time as principal at Jones, overall End-of-Grade reading proficiency has increased more than 13 percentage points, discipline referrals are down and she has been successful at increasing university and community partnerships.

"Mrs. Cynthia Brown will bring 25 years of strong instructional leadership and community engagement to build on the current successes at Murphy Traditional Academy," says Dr. Tony Watlington, Central Region superintendent.

Before she was principal of Jones Elementary, White-Brown served as an assistant principal and administrative intern at the school. She also served as a K-8 English Language Arts Curriculum Specialist for GCS where she provided coaching support to Oak Hill and Union Hill Elementary schools and helped each school increase its EOG proficiency."

- A Press Release

GCS Students to Compete in National Quiz Bowl Championship

The team from the Early College at Guilford

(from left to right), Vanessa Okoyeh,

Ziad Ali, Elizabeth Smith and Jared Taylor. 

The board recognized two winning Quiz Bowl

teams at Thursday’s board meeting

"Greensboro, N.C. – Guilford County Schools students will showcase their academic abilities on a national stage this weekend.

The Early College at Guilford’s Quiz Bowl team will compete in the national competition in Chicago this Saturday.  The team was recognized at Thursday’s board meeting for earning the state title in March with a 9-0 record.

The team from Penn-Griffin School of the Arts is in

the second photo (from left to right), Keith G. Pemberton,

Omega Psi Phi 6^th District Assault on Illiteracy Committee

Chairman and Founder of Preparing Our Youth Foundation;

Tre Thompson; Ashley Miller; Kristen Dawkins; and 

eam advisor Hector Argote-Gomez.

Quiz Bowl is an academic competition in which two teams of four students compete head to head using a buzzer system to be the first to answer questions read by a moderator. The fast-paced format tests the combined prowess of the teams to determine the ultimate winner.

The board also recognized students from Penn-Griffin School for the Arts as winners of the Black History Quiz Bowl tournament. Penn-Griffin has been the undefeated champion since the Quiz Bowl started five years ago.

The Black History Quiz Bowl is sponsored locally by Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and the Preparing Our Youth Foundation. Questions were created by High Point historian Glenn R. Chavis."

- A Press Release

GCS Students Reach One Million Hours of Service

Service learning gives students real-world experiences while bettering the community

"Greensboro, N.C. – Guilford County Schools (GCS) students have volunteered more than one million hours serving the community, providing an economic impact of about $21 million to the local community. On Wednesday, students, educators and community partners were celebrated for their work in reaching that milestone.

“Service learning takes what students are learning in class and applies it to the real world,” says Yvonne Foster, coordinator for character development and service learning. “It also helps instill pride in their community as they work to make it better.”

It’s all part of GCS’ Character Development Initiative, designed to give students the tools and motivation necessary to make a positive impact on the world. In the 2014-15 school year, The Middle College at Bennett was named a National and State School of Character; Brooks Global Studies and Joyner Elementary were also named State Schools of Character with nine others receiving honorable mentions; and another 16 schools were recognized nationally with Promising Practice awards by Character.org.

GCS’ Character Development initiatives are also opening doors for students. Seven were invited to Washington, D.C., as presenters for the National Service-Learning “More Powerful Together” Conference, where they led discussions with educational leaders, policy-makers and other students from around the country on how their efforts have made a positive change in their community.

“GCS’ Character Development Initiative foster those important and sought-after skills like teamwork and interpersonal communications that will help them stand out and be successful as they enter colleges and the professional world,” says Charlos Banks, executive director of student services and character development. “We are so proud of all of our students who are working to make a difference in the world.”

The event on Wednesday also recognized individual service learning projects and community partners, including High Point Student Human Relations Commission, City of Greensboro Parks and Recreation, The Greensboro Science Center, The Volunteer Center of Greensboro, NCCJ of the Piedmont Triad and Four Seasons Town Centre for providing students with service opportunities throughout the year.

To close out the event, Banks quoted Jane Goodall as a charge to students and staff to continue their good work. “Every individual matters, every individual has a role to play. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”

The next celebration is the Cool to Serve event on June 28, which rewards the more than 1,000 students who have volunteered more than 100 hours of service during their high school career. Students who served more than 250 hours will have the chance to win new car!"

- A Press Release

Northern Middle Garden Helps Feed the Hungry

$3,000 grant from Lowe’s Toolbox will help expand the garden

"Greensboro, N.C. – Northern Middle students are learning and providing fresh fruits and vegetables for local people in need thanks to their greenhouse and garden. Now, thanks to a $3,000 grant from Lowe’s Toolbox for Education, the school and students will expand the greenhouse and raised garden beds at the school.

Northern Middle School’s garden club has been learning about food deserts and exploring strategies to help those in need.  Food deserts are areas where 33 percent of residents live more than one mile from a full-service grocery store and where more than 20 percent of residents considered living in poverty. The garden club will use the grant money to expand its garden and upgrade its greenhouse. 

This year, the garden club raised vegetable plants from seeds for their garden. Extra plants were donated to other school gardens in Guilford County Schools. More than 125 plants were donated. Produce raised in Northern Guilford’s garden will be donated to Share the Harvest. The garden will also be used for curriculum enrichment activities in all subject areas. The project is scheduled to be completed by the fall of 2015.

"The Lowe's Toolbox for Education program delivers on Lowe's commitment to improve the educational environment for students across the country," said Maureen Ausura, chairwoman of the Lowe's Charitable and Educational Foundation. "We're honored to work with Northern Guilford Middle School to support the needs of our local students, teachers and families."

Northern Middle is one of more than 500 schools across the United States to be awarded a Lowe’s Toolbox for Education grant for improvement projects during the 2014-15 school year.

“We started the Grub Club at Northern Middle because the area is ranked as a top area in the U.S. for hunger,” said student Emilie Morton. “I love Grub Club, because I am doing what I love while making a difference.”"

- A Press Release

Battle of the Books Champions Recognized by Board

More than 100 students and their coaches

honored at tonight’s meeting

"Greensboro, N.C. – Whether they were “Chasing Lincoln’s Killer” or “Beneath My Mother’s Feet,” the Battle of the Books teams from Guilford County Schools were hard at work this year, reading and studying selected literature. More than 900 students on 79 teams competed this year, and for nine teams, the hard work resulted in a first-, second- or third-place win.

Tonight, more than 100 students were recognized by the Guilford County Board of Education, including first-place winners Jones Elementary, Northern Middle and Grimsley High. Northern Middle also placed third in this year’s regional competition, held in Winston-Salem through the North Carolina School Library Media Association.

Second-place winners at each level were Jefferson Elementary, Kiser Middle and Weaver Academy. Placing third were Alderman Elementary, Northwest Middle and Northwest High.

Battle of the Books is a reading incentive program that tests the knowledge of students using a "quiz bowl" format. Students train for months, studying challenging books from a diverse range of authors. Read more or click here to watch a video about the event."

- A Press Release

GCS Students Honored as PTA Reflections State Winners

14 students chosen for projects showing how

“The world would be a better place if . . .”

"Greensboro, N.C. – Tonight, the board of education congratulated the 14 Guilford County Schools students who were honored in the North Carolina PTA Reflections contest, a national arts recognition program that encourages students to explore their talents and express themselves.

Students were asked to create projects that fulfilled the theme “The world would be a better place if…” GCS students placed in seven out of eight categories. The winning students are:

Special Artist Winners

•                  Award of Merit -- Logan Coleman, Southwest Elementary

Dance Choreography Winners

•                  Primary (K-2) --  Second Place, Destiny Ballard, Pleasant Garden Elementary, Pleasant Garden

•                  Middle --  First Place, Alexandria York, Southeast Middle

•                  Senior -- First Place, Alexandra Jones, Northern High

Film Production Winners

•                  Primary (K-2) -- Third Place, Hanna Thigpen, Morehead Elementary

•                  Intermediate (3-5) -- First Place, Claire Campbell, Lindley Elementary

•                  Senior -- Second Place, Cameron Brosnan, Ragsdale High

Literature Winners

•                  Primary (K-2) -- Third Place, Sophia Stevens, Peeler Open Elementary

Music Composition Winners

•                  Primary (K-2) -- Third Place, Isobel Shiffler, Brooks Global Studies

•                  Middle -- Third Place, Cameron Woody, The Academy at Lincoln

•                  Senior -- Third Place, Michael Snyder, Ragsdale High

Photography Winners

•                  Primary (K-2) -- Third Place, Luke VanWinkle, Northern Elementary

•                  Intermediate (3-5) -- First Place, Thomas Stafford, Jesse Wharton Elementary

Visual Arts Winners

•                  Middle --  Second Place, Sreya Halder, The Academy at Lincoln

About Guilford County Schools

Guilford County Schools, the third largest school district in North Carolina, serves nearly 72,200 K-12 students at 127 schools. With approximately 10,000 employees, the district’s mission is to graduate responsible citizens who are prepared to succeed in higher education or the career of their choice. Guilford County Schools is a national leader in providing specialized schools and instructional programs designed to meet the educational needs of a culturally diverse citizenship. For more information, visit the district’s website at www.gcsnc.com."

- A Press Release