Gladys West Elementary School

Good afternoon, Gladys West Families,

The summer has come and gone, and it's time to begin a brand-new school year in our brand-new school, Gladys West Elementary! We are so excited to welcome our Navigators. Our teachers have poured their hearts into preparing classrooms where students will learn, grow, and thrive, and we cannot wait to open our doors.

We look forward to welcoming our youngest Navigators, our Kindergarteners, tomorrow, Monday, August 18, and all other students on Tuesday, August 19.

As we begin this first week together, please keep the following reminders in mind:

Buses

Please be patient with pick-up and drop-off times. The first week always take a little longer as we work hard to make sure every student gets on the correct bus safely.

Car Rider Line

This is a brand-new process at a brand-new building, and safety is our top priority.

• Please remain in your car. Staff will assist your child in and out of the vehicle.

• Families may not park and walk students to the front door.

• Car rider doors open at 8:20 AM and close at 8:40 AM.

• After 8:40 AM, please park and walk your child to the front door to check in.

Building Entry

Please have your photo ID ready any time you need to enter the building. IDs will be checked at the doorbell every time. If you do not have your ID, you will be asked to retrieve it before being admitted. Thank you for helping us keep our students safe.

Lunch Visits

Families will be able to join students for lunch beginning the first week of September. We want to give students time to adjust to school routines and expectations.

Birthday Treats

We do not allow food celebrations in the cafeteria. If you’d like to send store-bought treats (with ingredients clearly labeled), please coordinate with your child’s teacher and check for allergies in the classroom.

Attendance Matters

A strong start sets the tone for a successful year. Consistent attendance in the first few weeks helps students build routines and adjust both socially and academically. We understand that illness and emergencies may occur; in those cases, please use the link to submit your attendance notes: https://gwes.fxbgschools.us/o/gwes/page/attendance-notes

My Ride K-12 App Information

🔗 My Ride K-12 Parent User Guide Flyer

We are so excited to begin this journey together and welcome our students into our new building. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out at (540) 372-1140.