BETTER TOGETHER WITH GCS FAMILY ACADEMY

A Note from the Director's Desk: Building Legacy, Leadership and Possibility Together

February invites us to reflect on legacy, leadership, and the power of possibility. It is a time to celebrate history, honor contributions, and help students see themselves as leaders in their own stories. This month reminds us that every student’s journey is shaped not only by where they come from, but by the support and encouragement they receive along the way.


Families play a critical role in helping students recognize their strengths, advocate for their needs, and imagine what is possible for their future. When families are equipped with knowledge and tools, they are better positioned to guide, uplift, and empower their children through every stage of learning. These moments of leadership at home build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose in students.


February also reinforces the importance of community. Students thrive when families, schools, and partners work together to create supportive pathways that open doors and remove barriers. Through shared experiences and meaningful connections, we help students develop the skills and confidence needed to dream big and take ownership of their goals.


As we move through this month, let us continue to invest in leadership, celebrate growth, and remind students that their voices, talents, and aspirations matter. Together, we are building strong foundations for success today and for the future.



With appreciation and continued partnership,

 

 

LaSheka White

GCS DISTRICT NEWS

Strategic Direction Refresh Survey

Guilford County Schools’ Better Together plan shows how we support students and families over the next three to five years. We are updating this plan this year, and your voice matters. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts in this survey by Friday, Feb. 20. Click here for the Swahili version.

Kindergarten Registration for the 2026-2027 Year

If your child is turning 5 on or before August 31, they can be registered for kindergarten for the 2026-27 school year! It's time for your child to embark on an exciting journey, and Guilford County Schools will support you every step of the way. Throughout the Kindergarten year, your child will experience remarkable growth and transformation academically, socially and emotionally. Our caring and credentialed educators know how to help them thrive and are deeply committed to each student.

Course Registration for 2026-2027 School Year

It is time for students to begin the course selection process for next school year. The resources and information below will help guide decisions about your child’s course requests and help them reach the next stage of academic progress.


High School Course Registration

Rising Middle School Course Registration

Middle School Course Registration

GCS Launches New Advanced Manufacturing Academy

GCS is creating a new Signature Career Academy (SCA) at Southeast Guilford High School, which will immerse students in an advanced manufacturing and engineering-based curriculum. The project is supported by $2.1 million in grants and donations from GMA/FirstPoint Foundation, Bryan Foundation, Toyota USA Foundation, Golden LEAF Foundation and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Volunteer with GCS Family Academy

Join FAM on the Go, our dedicated group of GCS Family Academy volunteers who help bring learning and support to families across Guilford County. Volunteers may speak at schools about GCS resources, support evening and weekend community outreach events, and assist with workshops and outreach efforts. No experience needed, training is provided!


Apply and select “GCS Family Academy” or renew your Volunteer Application here.

NAMI Family-to-Family Winter Session Starts Feb. 4

NAMI Family-to-Family is a free, 8-session educational program for family, significant others and friends of people with mental health conditions. The winter session will begin on Wednesday, Feb. 4 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and will continue for eight consecutive weeks.

Register for the class and learn more at www.namiguilford.org.

Community Resources Calendar

Stay connected with what is happening in Guilford County. Our Community Calendar highlights upcoming events, workshops, and resources available to families throughout the district. Visit the calendar regularly to find opportunities for support, connection, and engagement. 

TOOLS FOR FAMILIES

How to Advocate for Your Child's Education

Part of the Building Brighter Futures series, hear from a guidance counselor, an early education teacher, and parent advocates with specific suggestions about how to effectively advocate for their children. The video introduces the concept of an Individual Education Plan and why it might be a valuable tool for some children.

Brainfuse: Free 24/7 Tutoring for GCS Students

Brainfuse is a free 24 hour, 7 days a week online tutoring service where students can get live help in math, reading, and more. Brainfuse also offers study tools, writing feedback, and skill-building activities your students can use anytime.

 

Please see the direct link and log in instructions below.

 

Step 1: Access Brainfuse Here

Step 2: Username: FULL STUDENT ID NUMBER@stu.gcsnc.com (@stu.gcsnc.com)

Step 3: Username: FULL STUDENT ID NUMBER @stu.gcsnc.com (@stu.gcsnc.com)

Password: STUDENT BIRTHDAY (MMDDYYYY)

We’re on ClassDojo!

GCS Family Academy is now on ClassDojo! Connect with us to get event reminders, resources, and updates delivered directly to your phone. It’s an easy way to stay informed and engaged with all that Family Academy has to offer. Join us here.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

This February, we would LOVE to see you at a Family Academy event. View the full calendar to stay connected and take advantage of every opportunity.  

FAMnopoly: Leading Your Student’s Pathway

Wednesday, Feb. 18

5:30 - 7 p.m.

Community Education Center

2703 E. Florida St., Greensboro

CFNC Tu Guía De Apoyo Hacia La Universidad

Wednesday, Feb. 18

12-1 p.m. or 6-7 p.m.

Virtual

CFNC: Your Guide to Supporting the Journey to College

Thursday, Feb. 19

12-1 p.m. or 6-7 p.m.

Virtual

Virtual Family Book Club

Wednesday, Feb. 25

6-7 p.m.

Virtual

Getting Started: Signing Up for Kindergarten

Thursday, Feb. 26

12-1 p.m. or 6-7 p.m.

Virtual


YOUR VOICE AND IDEAS MATTER.

Your partnership makes our work possible. We invite you to share your ideas, experience, and feedback as we move forward together. Click here to submit your thoughts or email us at familyacademy@gcsnc.com. We value your hopes, dreams, and the challenges you face, because your voice matters. As our superintendent, Dr. Whitney Oakley (a proud GCS parent!) reminds us, We are Better Together!

REPOST, LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & STAY CONNECTED!

X Share This Email
LinkedIn Share This Email

GCS Family Academy

2703 E. Florida St.

Greensboro, NC 27401

336-279-4924

Facebook  X  Youtube  Instagram