Important School Announcements

• Our habit of the week,  and focus for the next few weeks is thoughtfulness. This Friday and every Friday is groovy groophyn spirit day. This Friday is crazy socks and hair day
• This week on April 15th and 16th our 5th and 6th grade students will be taking the Ohio State English Language Arts Test and on the 17th and 18th 3rd and 7th grades will test. Please ensure your students are at school and ready to do their very best.
• It’s time to complete your Annual Registration Forms for the 2024-2025 school year! We look forward to having your student continue to be enrolled at GEMS next year, however, your student's spot for next school year is NOT guaranteed until all Annual Student Registration forms have been completed and are received by the school. This year we are using PowerSchool to complete the online registration forms. A letter was mailed home before spring break that included log-in information and step by step instructions on how to create an account. If your forms are completed by this Friday, April 19, your student will be entered into a prize drawing! Every student whose annual registration forms are completed by May 10 will get a GEMS t-shirt!
• Do you know someone interested in attending GEMS? GEMS is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year. Please suggest they attend an upcoming Enrollment Information Session to learn more about GEMS. Our next Enrollment Information Session is Wed. April 24 at 6:00pm at GEMS. Please contact the office with any questions.
• The Scholastic book fair will be this week! Students will look at books throughout the week. Shopping will be Thursday afternoon and all day Friday. Please contact your student's teacher if you need to know the specific time. The easiest way to shop is to use the e-wallet.  Please look for email and flyers that were sent home to access this easy way to buy books!
• As always thank you for being a part of the GEMS family and have a great week!

• I hope that this spring break has been refreshing for your students and they are ready to return on Tuesday, April 9 and finish the school year strong!
• By this time you should have received grade cards in the mail as well as eclipse glasses. If you have not received grade cards, please reach out to the front office
• Our habit of the week,  and focus for the next few weeks is thoughtfulness. This Friday and every Friday is groovy groophyn spirit day. This Friday is Sunglasses Day
• As we get into the last few weeks of school we are also entering into the testing season. This week on April 10th and 11th our 4th and 8th grade students will be taking the Ohio State English Language Arts Test. Please ensure your students are at school and ready to do their very best    
• Please be sure to email the office at [email protected] to share any absences or dismissal changes. Also as a reminder, students who have a fever must be fever-free without medication for 24 hours before returning to school.
•  Also as a reminder the office will not dismiss students early beginning at 2:30 PM daily. If you require assistance, please visit the office either before 2:30 PM or after 3:30 PM. This allows our students to finish the academic day strong as well as to help maintain a safe and efficient dismissal process. If you need to pick up your child early, please contact the office in advance.  
• Students in grades 6-8, The Spring Disco Dance is happening April 25th from 6-8pm.  Students with an average of 85% KB positivity from Feb 26 - Apr 23 will be eligible to participate. The cost is $2 (turn in at the dance only)! Please check in with your student regarding their KB positivity percentage or be sure to check the KB parent portal.

March 17, 2024

• Our habit of the week, and focus for the next few weeks is responsibility. This Friday, our Groovy Gryphon Spirit Day is Dress Like Your Favorite Movie, Cartoon Character, or Meme.

• Please be sure to email the office at [email protected] to share any absences or dismissal changes. Also as a reminder, students who have a fever must be fever-free without medication for 24 hours before returning to school.  

• This week will be the first-ever GEMS Math Week! Families will have opportunities to engage in math stories and content at home with opportunities to earn prizes for participation. Math week includes 5 days of math activities for families to do together and chances to win prizes for participation. 

• Students in grades 6-8, The Spring Disco Dance is happening April 25th from 6-8pm.  Students with an average of 85% KB positivity from Feb 26 - Apr 23 will be eligible to participate. The cost is $2 (turn in at the dance only)! Please check in with your student regarding their KB positivity percentage or be sure to check the KB parent portal.

• Spring Break is around the corner- Spring Break begins on March 29th. 

March 10, 2024

• Our habit of the week, and focus for the next few weeks is responsibility. Please continue to review the Kickboard parent portal so you can see updated behavior information that is entered in by school staff. Due to no school this coming Friday, there will not be a Groovy Gryphon Spirit Day! But that just gives students time to prepare for our Spirit Day on Friday, March 22nd, which is Dress Like Your Favorite Movie, Cartoon Character, or Meme. We had such a good time for our teachers dress like a student, students dress like a teacher this past Friday, so I know our Dress Like Your Favorite Movie, Cartoon Character, or Meme Spirit Day will be even more fun!

• Do you know someone interested in attending GEMS? GEMS is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year. Please suggest they attend an upcoming Enrollment Information Session to learn more about GEMS. Our next Enrollment Information Session is this Wed. March 13 at 6:00pm at GEMS. Please contact the office with any questions.

• Please be sure to email the office at [email protected] to share any absences or dismissal changes.

• As a reminder, there is no school this Friday, March 15th, as this is a professional development day for staff.

• Believe it or not we only have a little over 40 days left in the 23-24 school year, please be on the lookout for information coming your way about all of the end-of-the-year festivities. 

Feb 25, 2024

• Thank you so much to everyone who came out to the GEMS Skate Party this past Tuesday! We had such a great time and can’t wait to do it again soon.

• Our habit of the week, and focus for this week is Quality. The week of March 4th, our new habit focus will be Responsibility. Please continue to review the Kickboard parent portal so you can see updated behavior information that is entered in by school staff. 

• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit Day! Our Groovy Gryphon Spirit Day this Friday is Decade/ Throwback Day! What decade will your student represent? The 60s or 70s? Maybe the 80s or 90s or maybe a tall tee or jersey from the early 2000s? We can’t wait to see what our students come up with!

• Do you know someone interested in attending GEMS? GEMS is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year. Please suggest they attend an upcoming Enrollment Information Session to learn more about GEMS. Our next Enrollment Information Session is this Wed. Feb. 28 at 6:00pm at GEMS. Please contact the office with any questions.

• Please be sure to email the office at [email protected] to share any absences or dismissal changes. In addition, just a friendly reminder,  also as a reminder the office will not dismiss students early beginning at 2:30 PM daily. If you require assistance, please visit the office either before 2:30 PM or after 3:30 PM. This allows our students to finish the academic day strong as well as to help maintain a safe and efficient dismissal process. If you need to pick up your child early, please contact the office in advance.  

• Lastly, just so it is on your calendar, on March 15th, there will be no school for students as this is a professional development day for staff.

• The week of March 18-22nd, will be the first Annual GEMS Math Week! Families will have opportunities to engage in math stories and content at home with opportunities to earn prizes for participation.

Feb 18, 2024

• Our habit of the week,  and focus for the next few weeks will be Quality- Please continue to review the Kickboard parent portal so you are able to see updated behavior information that is entered in by school staff. This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! Our Groovy Gryphon Spirit Day this week is Inspired By..this week students can dress like someone who has inspired them. Huge shoutout to all our students for an amazing Black History Month Inspired  community meeting. It was a great time for community! Students supported those performing and sharing and we just had a good time.

•  As a reminder if your child is sick, in order to keep our community safe, please do not send them to school.  Students must be fever free without the use of medication  for 24 hours before returning to school. Please be sure to email the office at [email protected] to share any absences or dismissal changes. 

• This Tuesday, February 20th, is the GEMS Skate Party Fundraiser at Skatezone 71 on February 20th from 5:00pm-8:30pm. The admission is $5.00 and an additional $5.00 for skate rental. The first hour will  be a private party for GEMS friends and families until the general public skate opens at 6:00pm. This is a fundraiser for our Family Crew who are hoping to raise funds to support Staff Appreciation Week in May. Make sure to let them know at the door, that you are with the GEMS skate party. We hope to see you there. 

Feb 11, 2024

• Our habit of the week, and focus for the next few weeks will be Quality. Please continue to review the Kickboard parent portal so you are able to see updated behavior information that is entered in by school staff. If you need your kickboard parent account information, please reach out to us. 
  This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! Our Groovy Gryphon Spirit Day this week is Black Out- Wear all black to show crew and GEMS Unity. Also, as we celebrate black history daily, ask your student who they are learning about on the morning announcements as well as the song of the day.We are also still taking original songs, poems, and essays surrounding black history for our Student contest. Submissions are due by Wednesday- please encourage your student to consider submitting. 

• Our school office will not dismiss students early beginning at 2:30 PM daily. If you require assistance, we kindly request that you visit the office either before 2:30 PM or after 3:30 PM. This will assist in a smoother dismissal and allow our front office staff to complete essential end of the day tasks and help with high front office traffic. This will also help to ensure all students have the ability to get to their dismissal spaces efficiently.  Families will not be able to enter the building without a pre-scheduled meeting or prior communication of an appointment. If there is a unique situation or  there is an emergency that would require an early dismissal, please contact the school office via phone. 

•  As a reminder if your child is sick, in order to keep our community safe, please do not send them to school.  Students must be fever free without the use of medication  for 24 hours before returning to school. Please be sure to email the office at [email protected] to share any absences or dismissal changes. 

• Do you know someone interested in attending GEMS? GEMS is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year. Please suggest they attend an upcoming Enrollment Information Session to learn more about GEMS. Our next Enrollment Information Session is this Wed. Feb. 14 at 6:00pm at GEMS. Please contact the office with any questions.

• Save the date for the GEMS Skate Party Fundraiser at Skatezone 71 on February 20th from 5pm-830pm. The admission is $5.00 and an additional $5.00 for skate rental. The first hour will only be GEMS friends and families until the general public skate opens at 6. This is a fundraiser for our Family Crew who are hoping to raise funds to support Staff Appreciation Week in May. We hope to see you there

• There will be no school Monday, February 19th due to Presidents Day.

Feb 4, 2024

• Our habit of the week,  and focus for the next few weeks will be Quality- which is a correction from what is currently on the Groovy Gryphon Friday flyer. Please continue to review the Kickboard parent portal so you are able to see updated behavior information that is entered in by school staff. If you need your kickboard parent account information, please reach out to us.

• There have been a number of students K-8 who have struggled with school norms and expectations over the last few weeks. Please take a moment before the start of the week to talk with your student about the importance of school expectations. Our overall goal is for students to thrive in a safe and caring environment. In addition just as a friendly reminder, students in grades K-5 may not have cell phones out during the school day. Students in 6-8 are able to utilize phones during the recess times. If students have their phones out outside of these times, they will be asked to put them away, and if it continues, you will be notified, and they will be asked to turn their phones in to the lock boxes at the front office and pick up at the end of the school day. If you need to get in touch with your student, please reach out to the front office.  Phone usage has become a learning distraction within some classrooms and we are need to your partnership.

• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! Our Groovy Gryphon Spirit Day this week is Neon Day- Shine Bright with Acceptance and Respect- Get those bright colors ready!

• Save the date for the GEMS Skate Party Fundraiser at Skatezone 71 on February 20th from 5pm-830pm. The admission is $5.00 and an additional $5.00 for skate rental. We hope to see you there!

Jan 28, 2024

• Our habit of the week,  and focus for the next few weeks will be Quality- which is a correction from what is currently on the Groovy Gryphon Friday flyer. Please continue to review the Kickboard parent portal so you are able to see updated behavior information that is entered in by school staff. If you need your kickboard parent account information, please reach out to us.

•  As we begin to celebrate Black History Month, our first groovy gryphon Friday is HBCU college gear day. Represent one of the 107 Historical Black Colleges and University’s or choice to wear college gear in general. Our theme for Black History Month and the rest of the school year is “Regaining Our History” Reimagining Our Future 365

• Do you know someone interested in attending GEMS? GEMS is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year. Please suggest they attend an upcoming Enrollment Information Session to learn more about GEMS. Our next Enrollment Information Session is this Wed. Jan. 31 at 6:00pm at GEMS. Please contact the office with any questions.

•  Thank you to everyone who attended our GEMS Family Movie Night! We had a great night and I thank you for coming to spend time with as a GEMS community

• Save the date for the GEMS Skate Party Fundraiser at Skatezone 71 on February 20th from 5:00pm-8:30pm. The admission is $5.00 and an additional $5.00 for skate rental. 

Jan 21, 2024

• Our habit of the week,  and focus for the next few weeks will be perseverance. Please continue to review the Kickboard parent portal so you are able to see updated behavior information that is entered in by school staff. If you need your kickboard parent account information, please reach out to us.

• Thank you to everyone who came out to Celebration of Learning this past Thursday! It was so great to see all of the phenomenal work students were able to showcase! 

• Do you know someone interested in attending GEMS? GEMS is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year. Please suggest they attend an upcoming Enrollment Information Session to learn more about GEMS. Our next Enrollment Information Session is Wed. Jan. 31 at 6:00pm at GEMS. Please contact the office with any questions.

• We are continuing  our monthly family engagement, join us on this Wednesday, January 24th, 6:30pm at GEMS, for GEMS family movie night for a showing of Mario Brothers. Bring a blanket and snacks and enjoy the movie. 

• Also save the date for the GEMS Skate Party Fundraiser at Skatezone 71 on February 20th from 5:00pm-830pm. The admission is $5.00 and an additional $5.00 for skate rental. While it is a month away, save the date!

• There will be no school Thursday and Friday of this week. These days are professional development days for staff.

• Just a few quick reminders: As we continue to go into the colder months, if your child is sick, in order to keep our community safe, please do not send them to school.  Students must be fever free without the use of medication  for 24 hours before returning to school. Please be sure to email the office at [email protected] to share any absences or dismissal changes.  Thank you for helping keep our school community safe and healthy.

Jan. 14, 2024

• Just a few quick reminders: As we continue to go into the colder months, if your child is sick, in order to keep our community safe, please do not send them to school.  Students must be fever free for 24 hours before returning to school. Please be sure to email the office at [email protected] to share any absences or dismissal changes.  Thank you for helping keep our school community safe and healthy.
• Also  our school office will not dismiss students early beginning at 2:30 PM daily. If you require assistance, please visit the office either before 2:30 PM or after 3:30 PM. This allows our students to finish the academic day strong as well as to help maintain a safe and efficient dismissal process. 
• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! This Friday is backwards day!! Our habit of the week, and focus for the next few weeks is perseverance. Please continue to review the Kickboard parent portal so you are able to see updated behavior information that is entered in by school staff. If you need your kickboard parent account information, please reach out to us.
• This week students will take MAP Math assessments. Please ensure that students are at school on time and are ready to give their very best.
• We hope to see you this Thursday, January 18th for Celebration of Learning- come and see first hand what your students have been working on. Celebration of learning will be from 6:00-7:30PM. More information will be coming your way.
• Also as we continue our monthly family engagement, join us on Wednesday, January 24th from 6:30-8:30PM for GEMS family movie night. 

January 7, 2024

• We hope that everyone had a safe and memory filled holiday season! We will welcome students back to school, tomorrow January 8th to kick off the second half of the school year!

• Just a few quick reminders: As we continue to go into the colder months, if your child is sick, in order to keep our community safe, please do not send them to school.  Students must be fever free for 24 hours before returning to school. Thank you for helping keep our school community safe and healthy.

• Also our school office will not dismiss students early beginning at 2:30 PM daily. If you require assistance, please visit the office either before 2:30 PM or after 3:30 PM.

• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! This Friday is Hat day!! Our habit of the week, and focus for the next few weeks  is perseverance. Also as return back to school, please take a few moments to remind your child about school wide expectations. All classrooms will be re-norming expectations this week as we go into the second half of the school year.

• Here are a few January dates to keep in mind- there will be no school on Monday, January 15th in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day,  Save the date for Thursday, January 18th for Celebration of Learning- come and see first hand what yours students have been working on. Celebration of learning will be from 6:00-7:30pm. More information will be coming your way.

• Also as we continue our monthly family engagement, join us on Wednesday January 24th from 6:30-8:30 for GEMS family movie night. More details coming soon!

Dec. 17, 2023

• Thank you to everyone who attended our GEMS  family Mingle Jingle Dance this past Thursday! We hope that  everyone who attended had a great time! Be on the lookout for more family engagement events coming your way!

• As we continue to go into the colder months, if your child is sick, in order to keep our community safe, please do not send them to school.  Students must be fever free for 24 hours before returning to school. Thank you for helping keep our school community safe and healthy.

• As a reminder our school office will not dismiss students early beginning at 2:30 PM daily. If you require assistance, please visit the office either before 2:30 PM or after 3:30 PM. 

• This week we will be in school Monday-Wednesday. Wednesday, December 20th will be our last day of school for 2023. We will welcome students back January 8th, 2024!

• This is your last weekly announcement call for 2023! We hope that your family is safe throughout this holiday season and we look forward to seeing you in the new year to finish off the 23-24 school year strong!

December 10, 2023

• Back by popular demand, the GEMS family Mingle Jingle Dance, December 14th from 6-8. Dress to impress, whatever that means for your family. This is a family dance- so students will not be able to attend without an adult. Come for dancing, desserts, and community. If you would like to donate sweets, please feel free to send them to school on the 13th or bring them to the dance. We can’t wait to see you!
• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! This Friday is Ugly sweater day!! Our habit of the week, and focus for the next few weeks  is teamwork. If you still do not info to create your parent account on Kickboard, please let us know.
• Also sending a huge shout out to all our students! We had our first K-8 community meeting since before Covid and all students did a phenomenal job and we had a good time! It was a true example of “We are Crew” and showing of what family looks like in the GEMS community!!
• As a reminder our school office will not dismiss students early beginning at 2:30 PM daily. If you require assistance, please visit the office either before 2:30 PM or after 3:30 PM. 
• This week is our last full week of school before winter break. Next Wednesday, December 20th will be our last day of school for 2023. We will welcome students back January 8th, 2024!

December 3, 2023

• Thank you for you flexibility during the past week while our staff participated in Professional development opportunities. We will welcome students back for the full week starting tomorrow December 4th.

• Back by popular demand, the GEMS family Mingle Jingle Dance, December 14th from 6:00-8:00pm. Dress to impress, whatever that means for your family. This is a family dance, students will not be able to attend without an adult. Come for dancing, desserts, and community. We can’t wait to see you!

• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! This Friday is Anything but a bookbag day! Students can get creative in how they will carry their things in anything but a bookbag. Our habit of the week, and focus for the next few weeks  is teamwork. If you still do not info to create your parent account on Kickboard, please let us know.

• As a reminder our school office will not dismiss students early beginning at 2:30 PM daily. If you require assistance, please visit the office either before 2:30 PM or after 3:30 PM.

November 26, 2023

• We hope that you all enjoyed a safe break with family and friends, and we will welcome our students back to school tomorrow, November 27th.

• Thank you to all our students and families who attended student led conferences. We hope that families were able to learn more about where their student stands so far during this academic year.

• Back by popular demand, the GEMS family Mingle Jingle Dance is December 14th from 6:00-8:00pm. Dress to impress, whatever that means for your family. This is a family dance- so students will not be able to attend without an adult. Come for dancing, desserts, and community. We can’t wait to see you!

• As a reminder, this week there is no school Wednesday, November 29th, Thursday, November 30th and Friday, December 1st, due to professional development days and many staff members traveling for the EL National conference.

November 19, 2023

• Thank you to everyone who came out to Family Game Night this past Wednesday. We had over 60 people in attendance. Thank you to our family crew as well as GAP for the collaboration.

• Also back by popular demand, the GEMS family Mingle Jingle Dance is back December 14th from 6-8. Dress to impress, whatever that means for your family. This is a family dance, so students will not be able to attend without an adult. Come for dancing, desserts, and community. We can’t wait to see you!

• Also a reminder, there will be no school for students this week. November 20th and November 21st are student led conferences. Also note that there will be no school November 29, 30th and December 1st, due to professional development days and many staff members traveling for the EL National conference.

• We hope that all  families are safe and we wish our students a restful and restorative break We are thankful for all of our families in the GEMS community.. We will see students back on November 27.

Nov 12, 2023

•  This Wednesday, November 15th from 6:00-7:30pm will be GEMS game night. Bring in a game to share or join in with another group. There will also be a bake sale during game night.

• We are currently still in need of Thanksgiving Basket donations. Donations can be dropped off to the main office to given to me, or also Ms. Orians. We are collecting donations through the end of the week. If you don’t have time to shop and would rather donate gift cards, we are more than happy to shop for you. Thank you those who have already donated

• With The Marcus Project, GEMS families in conjunction with 2 Columbus City Schools will be able to receive winter coats for GEMS students on Saturday, November 18th from 10:00am-12:00pm at the Linden Rec Center, located at 1350 Briarwood Ave Columbus, OH 43211. No registration is required but it is first come first serve and while supplies last.

• Also back by popular demand, the GEMS family Mingle Jingle Dance, December 14th. Save the date and look out for more information coming your way.  Family Crew will be staffing the cookies and hot coco table. If you're interested in helping please click here. 

• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! This Friday is Red Carpet, I’m a star! Get ready to walk the GEMS carpet!. Our habit of the week, and focus for the next few weeks  is thoughtfulness. You also should have received  information in the mail on how to create your parent account on Kickboard. If you have not received this information please let us know.

• Grade cards have been sent out. If you do not receive them by mid week, please let us know

• As a reminder our school office will not dismiss students early beginning at 2:30 PM daily. If you require assistance, please visit the office either before 2:30 PM or after 3:30 PM. Thank you for communication

• Also a reminder, there will be no school for students the week of November 20th. November 20th and November 21st are student led conferences. If you have not signed up please reach out to your child’s teacher. Also note that there will  be no school November 30, 31st and December 1st, due to professional development days and many staff members traveling for the EL National conference.

November 5, 2023

• The scholastic book fair is coming to GEMS this week. This week students will be given the chance to browse the fair with open shopping happening on Friday. Information has been sent out surrounding payment options including cash or Ewallet. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Ms. Conrad.

• Save the date for a few upcoming events: 

  • Wednesday, November 15th from 6:00-7:30pm will be GEMS game night. Bring in a game to share or join in with another group. There will also be a bake sale during game night. Funds from the bake sale are being collected by the Family Crew with the hopes to help support staff appreciation week in the spring. We are excited for the opportunity to come together to socialize and build community

  • There has also been a link sent out for those in need of a Thanksgiving baskets as well as opportunities to donate and volunteer. Baskets are only available for the first 35 families. Donations can be dropped off to the main office to given to me, or also Ms. Orians.

  • With The Marcus Project, GEMS families in conjunction with 2 Columbus City Schools will be able to receive winter coats for GEMS students on Saturday, November 18th from 10-12 at the Linden Rec Center, located at 1350 Briarwood Ave Columbus, OH 43211. No registration is required but it is first come first serve and while supplies last.

  • Also back by popular demand, the GEMS family Mingle Jingle Dance  is back December 14th. Save the date and look out for more information coming your way.

• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! This Friday is Pajama Day. Students can  dress up in school appropriate PJs.. Our habit of the week, and focus for the next few weeks  is thoughtfulness. You also should have received  information in the mail on how to create your parent account on Kickboard. This will allow you to be able to see what school staff are entering in Kickboard which include both positives and struggles that students are having during the school day. If you have not received this information please let us know.

Oct 29, 2023

• If you have received a request that you still still need to submit a proof of residence or any enrollment forms, please submit this documentation as soon as possible. These documents are required and can effect your students enrollment and ability to attend school. You can submit this information via email to: [email protected] or turn it in at the GEMS front desk. If you have any questions contact us at: [email protected] or call 614-253-4000. 

• Save the date for a few upcoming events:

  • Wednesday November 15th from 6:00-7:30pm will be GEMS Game Night. Bring in a game to share or join in with another group. There will also be a bake sale during game night. If you would like to bring items, please make sure they are separated in baggies or wrapped individually. Funds from the bake sale are being collected by the Family Crew with the hopes to help support staff appreciation week in the spring. We are excited for the opportunity to come together to socialize and build community. If you're interested in helping or donating goodies please click here. 

  • Be on the lookout for more information about Thanksgiving baskets. There will be a link sent out this week to sign up for a Thanksgiving basket as well as opportunities to donate and volunteer. Thanksgiving baskets will be limited, so please look out for the link once it is sent out.

  • The Marcus Project is hosting a Winter Coat Drive. GEMS families and 2 Columbus City Schools can pick up winter coats for students on Saturday, November 18th from 10:00am-12:00pm at the Linden Rec Center, located at 1350 Briarwood Ave Columbus, OH 43211. No registration is required but it is first come first serve and while supplies last.

  • Back by popular demand, the GEMS Family Mingle Jingle Dance, December 14th. Save the date and look out for more information soon.

• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! This Friday is Future Self Day. Students can  dress up to show what they want to be when they grow up. Our habit of the week, and focus for the next few weeks  is thoughtfulness. Also please ask your child about kickboard and kickboard paychecks. If you are not receiving kickboard paychecks, please reach out to us. You also should have received  information in the mail on how to create your parent account on Kickboard. This will allow you to be able to see what school staff are entering in Kickboard which include both positives and struggles that students are having during the school day. If you have not received this information please let us know.

Oct 22, 2023

• As a reminder our school office will not dismiss students early beginning at 2:30 PM daily. If you require assistance, please visit the office either before 2:30 PM or after 3:30 PM. 

• The end of Quarter 1 is this Wednesday, October 25

• Save the date for a few upcoming events: Wednesday November 15th from 6:00-7:30pm will be GEMS Game Night & Bake Sale. Be on the lookout for more information coming your way. We are excited for the opportunity to come together to socialize and build community.

• Also be on the lookout for opportunities surrounding Thanksgiving baskets. There will be a link sent out later this week to sign up for a thanksgiving basket as well as opportunities to donate and volunteer. Thanksgiving baskets will be limited, so please look out for the link once it is sent out.

• Also back by popular demand, the GEMS family Mingle Jingle Dance  is back December 14th. Save the date and look out for more information coming your way.

• Please note that this Thursday, October 26th, and Friday October 27th there will be no school for students. There are professional development days for staff. Our Habit of the week continues to be responsibility. 

• By now you should have received information about signing  up for the kickboard parent portal. This will allow you to see both positive and improvement areas that are marked into Kickboard by school staff. If you have not received this information, please reach out to us. Also Kickboard paychecks are sent home on Fridays which summarizes your child’s behavior for the week. Students who return their paychecks signed earn kickboard dollars., 

Oct 15, 2023

• As a reminder our school office will not dismiss students early beginning at 2:30 PM daily. If you require assistance, please visit the office either before 2:30 PM or after 3:30 PM. This change has greatly enhanced the dismissal process for our students and front office staff and has  allowed continuous teaching and learning to occur during the last part of our school day.

• This Wednesday, Join the first Family Crew Meeting of the year. Learn how you can be a part of supporting the  GEMS community through supporting school events and other needs, as well as connect with other families.  The family crew meeting will be held Wednesday October 18th at GEMS from 6:00-7:00pm.

• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! This Friday is Costume Day. Students can come to school dressed in costume. They must be school appropriate. Also please no mask or weapon of any kind. Our habit of the week, and focus for the next few weeks  is responsibility. 

• Please ask your child about kickboard and kickboard paychecks. If you are not receiving kickboard paychecks, please reach out to us. In the mail you should also be receiving information on how to create your parent account on Kickboard. This will allow you to be able to see what school staff are entering in Kickboard which include both positives and struggles that students are having during the school day. If you do not receive your information by mid week, please let us know.

• Grades 6-8 are having a Halloween Costume Party on Friday, October 20th from 7:00pm-9:00pm! The cost is $2.00 (money is paid at the door). Students who have an 85% or higher positivity rating on Kickboard from September 20th - October 18th are eligible to attend.. Lastly, students who receive a suspension or reset day the week of the dance will not be eligible to attend, please check your child's kickboard paycheck to see positivity percentages  

Oct 8, 2023

• As a reminder our school office will not dismiss students early beginning at 2:30 PM daily. If you require assistance, please visit the office either before 2:30 PM or after 3:30 PM. In addition any visitors that come into the building during the school day, must check in with the school office. 

• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! This Friday is Sports Team Day. Students can come to school representing their favorite sports team. Each week we will also focus on teaching and embodying our Habits of Learning. Our habit of the week, and focus for the next few weeks  is responsibility. Ask your child this week how they have shown responsibility  at school or at home and how they are being a Change Agent. Also please ask your child about kickboard and kickboard paychecks. If you are not receiving kickboard paychecks, please reach out to us.

• Join us this week  October 11th from 530 to 7pm for Curriculum Night. Meet your child’s teacher, discover what students are learning, and how to support them inside and outside of school.

• Grades 6-8 are having a Halloween Costume Party on Friday, October 20th from 7:00pm-9:00pm! The cost is $2.00 (money is paid at the door). Students who have an 85% or higher positivity rating on Kickboard from September 20th - October 18th are eligible to attend. Students can come to the dance dressed in costume but must be school appropriate. Lastly, students who receive a suspension or reset day the week of the dance will not be eligible to attend, please check your child's kickboard paycheck to see positivity percentages  

• I would also like to share that there have been a number of students engaging in play fighting, as we continue to grow our school climate and culture, please note that students who engage in play fighting or any type of fighting, will receive a call home and be asked to be picked up from school. This will help us continue to grow as change agents, which means, we act with integrity, give our best, embrace diversity, nurture kindness, and take responsibility. We take it seriously that you have decided to send your child to GEMS and are thankful for your collaboration and partnership. 

• As always, thank you for being a part of the GEMS family and have a great week.

Oct 1, 2023

• Just as a reminder, our school front office will not dismiss students early beginning at 2:30 PM daily. If you require assistance, we kindly request that you visit the office either before 2:30 PM or after 3:30 PM. This will assist in a smoother dismissal and allow our front office staff to complete essential end of the day tasks and help with high front office traffic. This will also help to ensure all students have the ability to get to their dismissal spaces efficiently.  You should have received a paper copy of updates. We thank you so much for your cooperation and patience  as we navigate this change. 

• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! This Friday is Twin Day. Each week we will also focus on teaching and embodying our Habits of Learning. Our habit of the week for this week is quality. . Ask your child this week how they have shown quality at school or at home and how they are being a Change Agent. Also please ask your child about kickboard and kickboard paychecks. If you are not receiving kickboard paychecks, please reach out to us.

• Join us on October 11th from 5:30-7:00pm for Curriculum Night. Meet your child’s teacher, discover what students are learning, and how to support them inside and outside of school.

Sunday Sep 24, 2023

• Good Evening GEMS Families! This is Angelic Dean, Elementary Dean of Students with this weeks announcements

• Starting the week of September 25th, our school office will not dismiss students early beginning at 2:30 PM daily. If you require assistance, we kindly request that you visit the office either before 2:30 PM or after 3:30 PM. This will assist in a smoother dismissal and allow our front office staff to complete essential end of the day tasks and help with high front office traffic. This will also help to ensure all students have the ability to get to their dismissal spaces efficiently.  Families will not be able to enter the building without a pre-scheduled meeting or prior communication of an appointment. If there is a unique situation or  there is an emergency that would require an early dismissal, please contact the school office via phone. 

• If your child has a scheduled appointment that will result in early dismissal, please notify the school office in advance. 

•  Any changes to your child's dismissal routine must be communicated to the office prior to 2:15 PM. Please email these updates to [email protected] Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. You should have received the latest arrival and dismissal  update via email and text that went out Friday evening, but a paper copy will also be sent home on Monday.

• Picture day is this Wednesday, September 27th - if your child has not brought home the ordering information, please reach out

• There is no groovy gryhon spirit day this week- but out habit of the week is perseverance. Ask your student how they are using perseverance as well as being a change agent this week at home and in our school community. Also please be sure to look for Kickboard paychecks- which provides an overview of behavior and how students are using our habits of learning. Returned and signed paychecks earn students kickboard dollars

• Please note that on Thursday September 28th and Friday September 29th, there will be no school for students, as these are professional development days for school staff.

September 17, 2023

• Drop off in the morning is no earlier than 8:00am. Please do not drop off students earlier than 8:00am as doors will not yet be open. Student should enter in the gym doors until 8:15am. Dismissal will begin at 3:15pm.

• The front office will be closed between 3:00- 3:30pm. Please note that beginning the week of  September 25th, the front office will be closed from 2:30 - 3:30pm. This will provide a smoother and quicker dismissal process. Please let the front office know of any changes in dismissal plans, prior to 2:15pm. Please look out for a letter that will be sent home this week to explain the latest dismissal updates. 

• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! This Friday is mismatch day. Get creative and mix it up. Crazy color combos 2 different shoes? What will you choose? Each week we will also focus on teaching and embodying our Habits of Learning. Our habit of the week for this week is teamwork. Ask your child this week how they have shown teamwork  at school or at home and how they are being a Change Agent. Also please ask your child about kickboard and kickboard paychecks.

• Please note that on Thursday, September 28th and Friday, September 29th, there will be no school for students, as these are professional development days for school staff.

Sept. 10, 2023

• Thank you all so much for an amazing first week of school! It has been amazing seeing all returning students and welcoming new students into our GEMS community!

• Drop off in the morning is no earlier than 8:00am. Please do not drop off students earlier than 8:00am as doors will not be open. Students will be able to enter the gym at 8:00am and be able to begin heading to classrooms at 8:15pm. Dismissal will begin at 3:15pm.

• For dismissal If you have students in grades K-4, they are picked up in the back of the building. 

• If you have students in grades 5-8 or both K-4 and 5-8, please pick up in the front of the building in the car line by the gym doors. 

• The front office will be closed between 3:00- 3:30pm.This will provide a smoother and quicker dismissal process. Please let the front office know of any changes in dismissal plans, prior to 2:15pm.

• This week September 12th-14th students school wide will be MAP assessments, please ensure that students are hereall week ready to do their very best.

• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! This Friday is Super Hero day. Students can participate by dressing as their favorite superhero. Each week we will also focus on teaching and embodying our Habits of Learning. Our habit of the week for this week is thoughtfulness. Ask your child this week how they have shown thoughtfulness  at school or at home and how they are being a Change Agent.

Sep 3, 2023

• If your student will not be attending GEMS this school year, but you have still received this message, please call the school office or email [email protected] to complete a withdrawal form.

• It’s finally here! The 2023-2024 school year! We are so excited to welcome you back Tuesday September 5th. 

• Drop off in the morning is no earlier than 8:00am. Please do not drop off students earlier than 8:00am as doors will not yet be opened. Students will be able to enter the gym at 8am and be able to begin heading to classrooms at 815. Dismissal will begin at 3:15pm.

• For dismissal If you have students in grades K-4, they are picked up  in the back of the building. 

• If you have students in grades 5-8 or both K-4 and 5-8, please pick up in the front of the building in the car line by the gym doors. To be able to process dismissal quickly, we are  asking that you stay in your car and not walk up to the pick up spot. Please be patient as we get into the flow of the school year.

• In addition,  the front office will be closed between 3:00- 3:30.. This will provide a smoother and quicker dismissal process. Please let the front office know of any changes in dismissal plans, prior to 215pm.

• This Friday and every Friday is Groovy Gryphon Spirit day! This Friday is GEMS Spirit day. Students can participate by wearing GEMS Gear or the color green. Each week we will also focus on teaching and embodying our Habits of Learning. Our habit of the week for this week is responsibility. Ask your child this week how they have shown responsibility at school or at home and how they are being a Change Agent.

Aug 27, 2023

• If your student will not be attending GEMS this school year, but you have still received this message, please call the school office or email [email protected] 

• Welcome to the 2023-2024 school year! We are so excited to welcome you back in a little over a week, on Tuesday September 5th. 

• We hope to see you at Back to School night this Wednesday August 30th from 6:00 to 730pm. Come and meet your child’s teacher, opportunities for free haircuts, school supplies, and hotdogs. This will also be a gret time to bring any enrollment paperwork that has not been submitted. We look forward to seeing you!

• As always, thank you for being a part of the GEMS family and have a great week!