Dear GSCS,
We have been working with local and state law enforcement since early this morning regarding rumors and social media posts. Their investigations have indicated that there is no credible threat in our community based on the information at this time. All schools are safe and operating per normal operating procedures. Parents should expect to see an increased law enforcement presence in and around schools out of an abundance of caution.
Thank you,
Here are some upcoming September dates and recognitions.
Dear GSCS,
In light of the recent tragedy at Apalachee High School, our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected. Locally, we want to assure everyone that support is readily available for any student or staff member who needs to talk through their feelings as they relate to today's school shooting. As such, Griffin-Spalding Schools' social workers, mental health clinicians, and school counselors will be on hand tomorrow to provide guidance and comfort. Additionally, a counselor from our Employee Assistance Program will be available to offer support to any employee(s) who needs support. More than ever, we remain diligent in our efforts to maintain safe and supportive learning environments for our students and employees. However we can, as best we can, WE will get through this challenging time together.
Be kind. Be well. Take good care.
Keith L. Simmons. Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Griffin-Spalding County
Attention: GSCS Job Fair Coming Soon! Join Griffin-Spalding County Schools on Sept. 19, 2024, from 3:15 to 5:15 PM, to explore exciting career opportunities, meet school leaders & more!
9th grade parent night...see flyer for more details.
All GSCS schools & offices will be closed on Monday, September 2, 2024, in observance of Labor Day.
This year GSCS fall athletes are participating in the Beyond Self Athlete Program, a student development program, led by Community Partner and Mentor David Johnson, meant to grow student leadership skills, build character and improve school culture. To kick off the program, all middle and high school student-athletes attended the Beyond Self Athlete's Assembly today in the Griffin Auditorium. Athletes were told they are all Persons Of Influence (POI) and the importance of the 3 R's: Respect Yourself, Respect Others and Take Responsibility. Key Note Speaker Marlin Lynch III (Pastor Mo) shared the importance of discovering their purpose and making positive life choices. Words of wisdom from Pastor Mo included:
"Learn to say No"
"Your self-worth is not a group decision"
"Some people are not your friends, they are just people you know"
"Don't let your ice cream melt while you are counting someone else's sprinkles"
Parent Engagement Title I Meeting. See flyer for details.
Student leaders participated in the first Peer Court session of the school year at the GRCCA courtroom.
This week GSCS Superintendent Dr. Keith Simmons had his first Slices with the Superintendent of the school year with his student advisory councils from Spalding High & Griffin High. Students shared how the school year is going, asked questions, gave excellent feedback and enjoyed pizza thanks to our Partner In Education Slices Pizzeria Griffin.
GSCS CTAE also had a meet & greet with Alex, the new AI-generated talking patient robot, that will be used for students in our healthcare pathways. Because healthcare business partners gave feedback that students needed more experience learning soft skills, these robots were purchased through a grant (1 for GHS & 1 for SHS). Alex has numerous patient scenarios such as an allergic reaction, respiratory issues, insomnia, car accident, etc. for students to practice interacting with patients. Alex records and videos these interactions and students earn points. Alex is the first full-body Patient Communication Simulator that sees, listens, talks and even breathes. This is very exciting for our healthcare students!
It was a big day for GSCS CTAE! A ribbon-cutting was held to show off the new Atlas Greenhouse at GRCCA funded by a grant through the state. Now, our horticulture & animal science pathway students can learn with a hands-on approach. Students will sell the plants they grow to earn money to support the district's FFA Chapter in regional, state & national competitions.
Tonight kicks off the 2024-25 football season with GHS vs. Tift Co. at Memorial Stadium (SHS @ Central). Please remember to arrive early for the security checkpoint. The HOME side is the East (metal) stands and all Bags must be CLEAR plastic, vinyl or PVC and not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”. For full stadium guidelines, ticket information & FAQs visit https://www.gscs.org/o/gscss/page/memorial-stadium-guidelines.
GHS Football Coach Fedd and SHS Football Coach Davis spoke today at the Kiwanis Club of Griffin. They talked about their work to prepare and what they are looking forward to for the upcoming football season.
Great start to the year for workbase learning! Students had their first class to talk about soft skills in the workplace!
GSCS Open House for ELEMENTARY families is today, Tuesday, July 30, from 3-7 p.m. and tomorrow, Wednesday, July 31, from 3 – 7 p.m. for MIDDLE & HIGH families. For back-to-school resources & info. visit https://www.gscs.org/page/2024-2025-back-to-school-resources-information or text us at 678-990-9609.
Yesterday, GSCS clerical staff began their learning adventure at the inaugural 2024 GSCS Clerical Academy! GSCS school and department office staff learned, laughed and networked as they prepare for a new school year. They were welcomed by GSCS Superintendent Dr. Keith Simmons and participated in fun activities, a Q&A panel and training classes from technology and human resources. Their adventure continued today with more fun activities, employee wellness with Dr. Ecclesia Savage and professional learning from operations, finance and more. Thank you to the sponsors and everyone who helped make this inaugural academy a success!
