As we enter this new season, traditionally associated with reflection, gratitude, and connection, I would like to take a moment to celebrate what it means to give and belong. In our fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in our individual pursuits, but we truly discover our strength and purpose in these moments of connection.

During this season, as the leaves continue to fall and the chill sets in, remember that our community thrives when we come together to support one another. Giving isn't just about the tangible gifts we share; it's about the kindness and compassion we extend to our neighbors, friends, and family. No matter how small, each act of generosity sends ripples of hope that uplift those around us. It serves as a reminder that we are all interconnected, and our individual efforts contribute to the greater good.

Belonging is a powerful force. It is the feeling of being accepted, valued, and understood. In our Guilford Parent Academy community, we strive to create an environment where everyone feels they have a place and a safe space to learn and engage. As we continue to inspire family learning across Guilford County through various platforms, let us prioritize inclusivity and empathy. Together, we can foster an atmosphere where everyone knows they are essential to our collective journey.

 We are filled with hope for the future. We stand at a crossroads where the potential for positive change is immense. By embracing the spirit of giving and fostering a sense of belonging, we lay the groundwork for a brighter tomorrow. Let us dream big and work collaboratively to create opportunities for growth and connection. Every action counts through volunteer efforts, community events, or simply reaching out to a neighbor.

To GCS families, community partners, staff, and friends, thank you for your continued commitment to supporting Guilford Parent Academy in our efforts to family learning for all. We are grateful for each of you and excited about the journey ahead.

In the spirit of the season, we are giving away four tickets to the Greensboro Science Center Winter Wonderlights! ❄️🕯️ We know family time is the best time, so we hope to encourage families to spend time together this holiday season.

To enter, follow the steps below:

1. Be sure you are following us on social media 
2. Share one of our posts
3. Tag a friend in the comments
4. Complete this form!

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is one of the most talked about acronyms today. STEM fields of study are steadily growing in popularity and doing so at a faster rate than that of non-STEM fields of study worldwide. Therefore, it is imperative to provide a space that fosters STEM engagement. The goal of the Guilford County Schools STEM Department is to provide quality STEM instruction to ALL students by integrating math, engineering, and technology in all K-12 science classrooms. Science teachers engage students in problem solving by using the engineering process, while connecting science standards to students' lives.  

The Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina is a nonprofit organization that works to increase food security and reduce hunger in 18 counties in northwest North Carolina:

• Service area: Alamance, Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Caldwell, Caswell, Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Guilford, Iredell, Randolph, Rockingham, Stokes, Surry, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yadkin
• Food sources: Partners with farmers, food manufacturers, retail grocers, and the community to distribute food to local food assistance programs
• Programs: Provides food assistance to children and families, nutrition education, and workforce development 

Starting in December, GCS families will have a new way to pay for school-related items such as field trips, yearbooks, spirit wear and athletic fees. 

GCS will soon launch School Cash Online, an electronic payment system that can be found at https://gcsnc.schoolcashonline.com/. Parents may create an account that will give them access to make secure, direct payments with minimal fees.  

By setting up an account, families will receive an email from School Cash Online with the specific items assigned to their child. They may use the system to pay for items at multiple schools, and for all purchases except cafeteria items, which will continue using the K12 Payment Center system until later this spring, when the district will switch to a system called School Café.  

School Café is currently used to process free and reduced-price meal applications for non-CEP schools and eventually will be used to pay for cafeteria purchases.

Computer Science Education Week is taking place from December 9-15, 2024, and it’s a fantastic opportunity for families to explore the exciting world of technology together. Here are some enjoyable and educational ways caregivers can engage with their students to discover the significance of computer science:

1. Engage in meaningful conversations about how technology shapes our daily lives and the important role of computer science. Click here to watch a video on how computers work.
2. Read Books about Technology: Share books that introduce technology and computer science concepts engagingly. Consider titles like Astro Girl by Ken Wilson-Max or The Wild Robot by Peter Brown to inspire curiosity about the tech world. Click here to watch the read-aloud of Astro Girl.
3. Engage in unplugged activities: Try activities that teach computer science principles without screens. Click here for some fun ideas to explore at home.
4. Consider visiting the Greensboro Science Center for a fun learning experience together or click here to explore the National Air and Space Museum's online exhibits to discover the wonders of aviation and space exploration.
5. Discuss Future Careers: Have conversations about various careers in technology. Invite family friends working in tech to share their experiences, helping children understand the diverse opportunities available in this field.

Winter Break Activity Calendar

Check out our fun activity calendar for when the kids are home for Winter Break. Click on the image below to view and have fun!

New Year's Countdown

15 days of brain building with the Basics Guilford. Click on the image below to view!

We have some useful and important events coming up in December! Learn more and sign up here or click on the event name below.

We can not do this work without you. We hope that you will share your ideas and experiences with us as we chart the path forward. Click here to submit or send us an email to parentacademy@gcsnc.com with your thoughts. Your hopes, dreams and pain points matter to us. As our amazing superintendent (and proud GCS parent!) Dr. Whitney Oakley reminds us every day: We are Better Together!