Week of May 12, 2021

Attention, Seniors!

All SENIORS were required to complete their Senior Survey in Naviance by Monday, May 10. The information shared on this survey is essential to the work of the School Counseling Department. Please make sure that your Class of 2021 graduate has completed (and submitted) their survey. In addition to reporting any scholarship money they have been offered, they were also asked to declare the outcomes of their college applications here--including the name of the one school which they wish to receive their final transcript soon after graduation. If your child is offered a spot off a college waitlist, changes their intended college, or receives additional scholarships after submitting their Senior Survey, they must update their senior counselor by e-mail. Thank you!

Attention, Juniors! 

Who's ready for another JUNIOR NEWSLETTER? The May 2021 (You're Almost Seniors!) edition was released on Friday, May 7. Featured topics include College Boot Camp registration (open through June 11), a long list of live/virtual college events taking place soon (most of which are also open to sophomores), and a variety of contests and scholarship opportunities--including an invitation to self-nominate for the prestigious Morehead-Cain Scholarship from UNC-Chapel Hill. (Interested juniors must complete the corresponding survey in Naviance by 3:30 p.m. on Monday, May 17.) 

If you have any questions about what you see in the newsletter, please do not hesitate to reach out to Kim Forquer. Mrs. Cobb, Dr. Loving, and Ms. Forquer hope that the information they have shared in the junior newsletters this school year have supported our students' quest for learning and vigorous launch into college application season. In addition to Schoology, links to the Junior and Senior Newsletters can be found on the School Counseling website.

Attention, Freshman, Sophomore, and Junior Families: SOL Schedule

Even though in-person school attendance is optional this year, students are still required to take SOL tests in designated classes for graduation purposes, and these tests must be taken at school in accordance with state testing guidelines. For families who are not comfortable having their students take SOLs this year, please complete this quick opt-out form. Your student will still need to take the SOL tests for graduation purposes, and make-ups will most likely be offered in the fall.

Week of Monday, May 24:

Freshmen will take SOLs in Geometry and Algebra II. Because these tests can take some students 4 to 6 hours to complete, we are starting these tests at 8:40 a.m. Students will test on the day that they have a math class AND on the day that they are permitted to attend school (either Monday/Tuesday or Wednesday/Thursday). These students may miss one or more classes on testing days.

All sophomores in U.S. History classes who do not have verified credits in World History I from middle school will take these tests during U.S. History class time on the day that they are permitted to attend school.

Week of Tuesday, June 1:

Sophomores not in U.S. History who do not have a World History I verified credit from middle school will take World History II during Global Studies 10 classes on the day they are permitted to attend school.

Juniors will take the Reading test through English classes on the day they are permitted to attend school.

Week of Monday, June 7:

Freshmen will take Biology tests during their Biology classes on the day they are permitted to attend school.

Students who are not currently using school bus transportation will need to be transported by families and will have the option to stay for other classes or be excused for missing parts of other classes while being transported back and forth.

As a reminder, here are the in-person assignments for Monday/Tuesday and Wednesday/Thursday. Students must follow this schedule to allow us to maintain social distancing during testing:
Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico, and Richmond will be split evenly. Students with last names A-Li will be on Monday & Tuesday. Students with last names Lia-Z will be on Wednesday & Thursday.
Goochland, Hopewell, and Powhatan will be on Monday & Tuesday.
Charles City, King & Queen, New Kent, Petersburg, and Prince George will be on Wednesday & Thursday.

More info about SOL testing is available on the School Counseling webpage on SOL testing. Families who wish to opt out of SOL testing must complete this quick opt-out form.

Scrip Update

It's graduation time! If you plan to give gift cards, or buy gifts from a scrip provider (more than 750 retailers), please consider using scrip. Order yours here. A relatively small percentage of families have raised $1,564 this year by shopping with scrip; imagine what we could do for our Dragons if you joined us! Try it out by purchasing one product you regularly use. It feels great to know retailers you already shop give back to MLWGS at no extra cost to you! Questions? Contact Laura Dysart at scrip@mlwgsptsa.org. We are still looking for a few volunteers to help with monthly distribution of scrip cards next year. Even a one-time commitment would help! Thank you!

Dragons Styled at the VMFA

On May 2, three Dragons were recognized for their outstanding fashion designs in the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts' Teen Stylin' 2021 Program:

• Sydney Brewer '24 won the Grade 6-9 Best Interpretation of Theme: Tempo Award.
• Grace Crislip '24 won the Grade 6-9 Best Model Award. She modeled for designer and younger sister, Renna Crislip.
• Vien Nguyen '23 was runner-up for the Grade 10-12 Best Use of Alternative Materials Award.

During this 12-week program students were randomly assigned an item from the museum's collection to interpret through the lens of the theme “Tempo.” Students were also required to use recyclable materials. Due to the pandemic, most students worked virtually on their projects with the option of some classroom instruction with designing instructors. The culmination of their hard work involved walking the runway before a panel of professional fashion industry judges. Forty-two students representing schools throughout the central Virginia region participated.

Renderings by Teen Stylin' student designers and award-winning garment designs will be on display May 2-June 7 in VMFA's WestRock Art Education Center.
Find information about the program here.

February 10, 2021

Special Guest Speaker TODAY

We are thrilled to announce that Christina Koch, NASA astronaut and former United States Antarctic Program research associate, will be joining the Polar Seminar on Wednesday, Feb. 10, during first period. She will talk about her experiences working in harsh and remote conditions – from the South Pole to the International Space Station. The Artemis team  of astronauts has begun training and preparing for the first planned lunar mission since 1972.

Watch this short video, “Meet Artemis Team Member Christina Koch,” to introduce you to this remarkable speaker.

If you would like to attend the seminar, please email Lynn Reed as soon as possible and she will provide you with the Zoom link. Koch's talk will begin at about 8:50 a.m., and the Q&A will conclude at 9:55 a.m. We will record the event and posting it to Schoology afterwards.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parent-teacher conferences will be conducted virtually using the Zoom platform on Thursday, Feb. 11, from 4 until 7 p.m. Find a link to the Sign-up Genius form in the parent portal of PowerSchool. As always, you can email any teacher directly and set up a time to talk.

Fall Sports

Any student who plans to participate in fall sports must have the forms completed to participate. Please send forms to phawkins@gsgis.k12.va.us as a single file attachment, such as a DOC or PDF, that is named “Lastname, Firstname.” If you do not have a scanner at home, there are free scanning apps available for your phone, and newer iPhones include a built-in scanner in the “Notes” app. The start date for fall sports is Monday, Feb. 16. 

Re-Opening Update

Gov. Northam has called upon all public schools in the Commonwealth to begin returning students to campus by March 15. Over the next few days, the MLWGS admin team will review all of the guidelines mentioned in the Governor's statement and ensure that our instructional plan is updated and in compliance.

School Counseling

Reminder: The MLWGS senior counselors are pleased to present MLWGS’s annual College Kick-Off event for juniors and their families again this year. This virtual event will take place over three informative and inspiring sessions:

• Tuesday, Feb. 16 (12:30-1:30 p.m.): Navigating Naviance and other accounts (in support of college planning), presented by senior counselors Dr. Rachel Loving and Ms. Kim Forquer, as well as GRASP representative Mrs. Susan Teerlink and English teacher Mr. Ed Coleman

• Wednesday, Feb. 17 (10:15-11:30 a.m.): The College Search and an Introduction to Scholarships, Financial Aid, Honors Colleges, and Special Programs, featuring panelists from Old Dominion University, Howard University, and Northeastern University

• Thursday, Feb. 18 (10:15-11:30 a.m.): What Colleges are Looking For and an Introduction to the Application Process, featuring panelists from the University of Richmond, the College of William & Mary, and the University of Chicago

Shop with Scrip!

We have earned $1234.51 this year with our scrip program, close to our $1,500 goal! Help us reach it by doing your everyday shopping with scrip. Go to shopwithscip.com to shop. Our next plastic card order due date is February 21 at midnight. 

During Thank Scriping days on Feb. 18 and 19, a selection of retailers will give up to 19% back on e-certificate orders! Stock up on brands you regularly shop. Questions? Contact scrip@mlwgsptsa.org. We are also looking for a coordinator for next year, as current coordinator's son is graduating! Please reach out to the scrip email address if interested. It's a great way to get involved with the PTSA Board and meet new people while benefitting the school's fundraising efforts!

Support MLWGS at the 2021 Night of the Dragon!

Plans are shaping up in a wonderful way for the 2021 Night of the Dragon on April 24. Our beloved annual fundraising auction and gala will be virtual this year, so mark your calendars and make plans now to have a viewing party or just stay in, order from one of our partner restaurants, and enjoy!

Want to help us make the upcoming 19th Annual Night of the Dragon the best ever? Sure you do! Here are some great ways:

• Get registered as soon as we let you know the auction website goes live so you can preview all the great auction items. 

• Donate an item(s) or service for the live or silent auctions. Popular items include unique experiences hosted by MLWGS families and friends, vacation home rentals, one-of-a-kind items, local adventures—GET CREATIVE! To donate, contact Ginger O’Neil.
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• Become a sponsor. Individual and corporate sponsorships are a great way to support MLWGS and celebrate someone or promote your business to our community. Sponsorships are available at many levels (from $500 to $10,000) and the livestream format allows for some great new options for recognition. For sponsorships, contact Ginger O’Neil.

Attention: Seniors

The February 2021 Senior Newsletter has been uploaded to the MLWGS School Counseling website. This document features scholarships, announcements from colleges, contests, and multicultural opportunities, as well as an on-site admissions event with Mary Baldwin University that is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 12. Students and families are reminded that each issue includes a new list of scholarships; therefore, rereading previous issues and reviewing Naviance are suggested so that opportunities and deadlines are not missed. on the website, click on the link for “College Admissions Information” and then “Senior & Junior Newsletters." Seniors should also continue viewing posts on the “College Information for the Class of 2021” Schoology page.

Joys of Service on the MLWGS PTSA Board

by former MLWGS PTSA President Craig R. Martin

I avoided even attending the PTSA meetings for my twins all through their elementary and middle school years, much less participating somehow on the boards. I look back at the full scope of my daughter’s time in school (class of 2021 at MLWGS) and I regret the early days I missed. Fortunately, I became active on the MLWGS PTSA Board during her sophomore year when I was asked to be president for 2019-20. I was honored to be asked, and looking back at my three years on the Board, including coming on as President-Elect and serving on the membership committee this year, I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity to serve the school and students in this way. I know I am biased, but it feels like the smartest and most active Parent-Teacher-Student Association board in Virginia (no disparagement to all the other PTSAs).

From personal experience, I have found being part of this group incredibly rewarding. I have learned so much more about Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School than I would have ever known had I not been part of this amazing team of truly remarkable board members. We have become family and I will be very sad to not be with them after this year once my daughter goes off to college. My fellow board members have taught me so much and I was humbled to serve on a team with so many folks much, much smarter than me!

So, why am I sharing this now? Because we need you! People like me who are leaving the MLWGS PTSA have opened up spots on the board. And, we want to make sure you were invited to join the team. Now as a MLWGS dad, I would especially like to invite other dads, men on the faculty, from administration and students to consider serving the school and the MLWGS community in this way. It’s always interesting when I reach out to other MLWGS fathers and the comment comes back that they are too busy to serve. I like to laugh and say, “the previous president to when I served, the current president and the president-elect are all working professionals with much more demanding jobs than I will ever have.” So, consider being a part.

Much like my friend Natalie Smith asked me years ago if I would be a part of the board, I am asking all of you. Will you join and serve? Trust me, like many meaningful things in life, I have personally received much more being on the team than I ever gave back. You won’t regret a minute of it. If interested, you can reach out to our committee lead at vbray@barlowresearch.com or email me. Thank you!

Week of November 18, 2020

Scrip Holiday Specials 

It's time to think about holiday shopping! We have two more order due dates before winter break (12/7 and 12/14). Your cards will be delivered to you before the end of the week you order. You can also earn up to 20% on participating e-certificates during Thank Scriping Days (11/19 and 11/20). Watch the ShopWithScrip Facebook page for more details, or go to www.shopwithscrip.com to see the participating retailers revealed! Please consider doing some of your holiday and everyday shopping with scrip. For every $50 you purchase in the next two orders, you will be entered in a drawing for a $50 scrip gift card of your choice! Contact your MLWGS PTSA parent coordinator/volunteer with any questions.

Friday Fun Lunchtime Series Begins 11/20/20

Relax and enjoy the creativity and energy of fellow Dragons during the MW Library’s Friday Fun series, which kicks off on Friday, Nov. 20, at 11:30 a.m. The Zoom link will be posted to class pages on Schoology the day before, and sign-ups for the open mics will be posted a few days earlier. Poets, singers, musicians, and storytellers are all welcome at the open mics, which will be hosted by student emcees. The Virtual Dance Party will be hosted by student DJs and student dance instructors. Hope to see you online!

11/20 – open mic

12/4 – open mic

12/11 – virtual dance party

12/18 – open mic

If you have any questions, email Ms. DeGroat.

New Community Service Opportunities

Do other commitments prevent you from joining the Walker Wednesday gatherings hosted by Ms. DeGroat on Zoom most Wednesday afternoons from 3:30 to 5 p.m.? Want to contribute to a more joyful and connected world by doing community service? Ms. DeGroat is offering two NEW opportunities to earn community service hours without spending more hours on-screen. If you have any questions, email Ms. DeGroat.

Holiday cards, snowflakes, and paper ornaments for residents of the Virginia Home – There’s already a dedicated and talented group of card-makers who gather on Walker Wednesdays, but with the holiday season approaching, Ms. DeGroat is offering the opportunity to earn hours on your own schedule and submit photographs and a signed log to verify your hours. Sign up here. 

Veteran’s History Project – Do you have an ancestor, neighbor, or friend who is a veteran of the U.S. military? Would you like to record an audio or video interview and have that recording become part of the oral history collection at the American Folklife Center? Ms. DeGroat is organizing a team of students to gather veterans’ oral histories. Training sessions, prep time, interview time, and transcription time will all count toward hours earned. Interested? Sign up by Tuesday, Nov. 24, here. 

Attention, Seniors

Though it may seem like graduation is a long way away, preparation for the big day has already started. Herff Jones has received MLWGS’ order for everyone’s cap and gown, but don’t forget you can also purchase announcements and other graduation-related paraphernalia. Use the link below to access the catalog or use the number to call Herff Jones’ Richmond office. If you have any questions, please reach out to Ms. Sheppard, class sponsor.

Catalog: highschool.herffjones.com

Herff Jones: 804-598-0971

Drama Department Presents Shakespeare Scenes

MLWGS Drama presents a virtual production of selected scenes from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream! FREE access to the recorded performance will be posted on the school website from Saturday, Nov. 21, through Sunday, Nov. 29. For more information, please contact the director, Leigh Glatt.

Week of June 12, 2019

SENIOR INFORMATION

Senior Picnic: Thursday, June 13, 12:00-2:00 p.m.

The Senior Picnic is the first official alumni event for the Class of 2019; it is sponsored by the Governor’s School Foundation and Alumni Office. The event will take place at the Carillon Shelter at Byrd Park, and students are asked to sign-up to bring desserts, drinks, paper goods, and chips. The Foundation will assist in providing the main meal. Any parent who wishes to help serve at this event, please contact the class sponsor, Kerry Sheppard 804-354-6800 ext. 3304 ksheppard@gsgis.k12.va.us. 

Baccalaureate Service: Thursday, June 13 at 6:30 p.m.

The Baccalaureate Service will take place at Reveille United Methodist Church (4200 Cary Street Road). Sponsored by the MLWGS PTSA, the inter-faith service begins promptly at 6:30 p.m. and will last approximately one hour. 

Baccalaureate is a traditional service celebrating seniors and wishing them success in their future endeavors. Families and friends of the graduates are most welcome to attend. Seniors are asked to bring both cap and gown for the ceremony as are to arrive no later than 6:15 p.m. 

If you have any questions, please contact 

Jennifer McCluskey mccluskeyjennifer@gmail.com or 

Julie Hendricks juliebhendricks@hotmail.com

Graduation Rehearsal: Friday, June 14 at 9:00 a.m., Altria Theater, 6 N. Laurel Street

Graduation rehearsal is held at the Altria Theater. Parking is available at the VCU parking deck for a minimal fee (entrances are on Cherry and Laurel Streets). Please adhere to posted street parking signs as ticketing and towing are strictly enforced. Seniors must arrive no later than 8:45 a.m. and report to the downstairs ballroom (enter through the Main Street entrance towards the rear of the building). Rehearsal will begin at 9:00 a.m. sharp. ANY STUDENT WHO MISSES REHEARSAL WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO WALK IN THE ACTUAL GRADUATION CEREMONY, so parents are asked to please work with your student to make sure he or she is on time. Practice is usually completed by 11:30 a.m. or so, but given that we will take as long as needed to perfect the process, please do not plan anything that requires your student to leave early or be gone by a certain time. This run-through is crucial to the success of the graduation ceremony.

Graduation: Friday, June 14 at 3:00 p.m., Altria Theater, 6 N. Laurel Street 

Graduates must arrive at the downstairs ballroom by 2:00 p.m. For organizational reasons, this area is off limits to parents, relatives, and friends; we appreciate your understanding. Cap, gown, and tassel are the most required items for the day, but students are asked to dress appropriately: dark dress pants, collared shirts with ties, or dresses. Students may wear cords earned as part of their membership in our Honor Societies (as has been our custom). Students may wear one piece of additional pre-approved regalia, which they have earned as a member of an enduring MLWGS organization. All pieces of regalia will be distributed by sponsors in the days leading up to graduation.

Perhaps the most important clothing decision for the day, however, is shoes. Remember, you are walking up and down steps and across a long stage. Dress shoes with socks or low-heeled dress shoes are the most appropriate; “flip-flops” and athletic shoes are not permitted. 

Doors to Altria Theater will open at 2:30 p.m. Guests should enter through the front doors and must have a ticket to attend graduation. Seating is not reserved. Handicap seating is available in multiple locations; please see one of the ushers at the door upon your arrival if you need this seating. Parking for graduation is available at the VCU parking deck for a minimal fee (entrances are on Cherry and Laurel Streets.) Please adhere to posted street parking signs as ticketing and towing are strictly enforced.

During the ceremony, parents may only take photos from their seats. Altria Theater will not permit us to spill into the aisles for this activity, and they enforce this quite seriously. Wendell Powell Studio will be taking pictures of each individual student as he/she receives his/her diploma. After graduation, go to https://wendellpowellstudio.shootproof.com/gallery/8780793 and use the password MWSR19 to find the proof and ordering instructions for your student’s photograph.

Graduation activities should conclude by 6:00 p.m. 

As a special year-end privilege, juniors will be able to use the student parking lot June 3-14.  Juniors are reminded not to park in faculty or visitor spots. We have approximately 150 student parking spaces. 

NEXT STEPS FOR SENIORS- CONGRATULATIONS!!!

CLICK HERE to see WHERE THEY ARE HEADED

SOCCER- MW GIRLS WINS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

Congratulations MW Dragons and Coach Jim Thomas on winning the 2019 2A VHSL State Championship breaking George Mason High School's 11-year winning streak. 

TENNIS- 2019 VHSL 2A BOYS ANS GIRLS STATE CHAMPIONS

Both Dragon tennis teams had a fantastic season. Last weekend the teams competed at Virginia Tech indoor tennis facility with both winning the state title.  

BOYS:

Congratulations team members and coaches Jenn Todd and TQ for an outstanding season on the court. The MW boys team has won the State Championship 5 out of the last 6 years.

Great run seniors William, Lawrence, and Ian! 

Boys Roster:  

Rohit Bhagavatula* (Chesterfield '20) 

Tyler Coffey* (Chesterfield '20)

William Hobbs* (Henrico '19) 

Ronit Jain (Henrico '22) 

Larry Jia (Chesterfield '19) 

Michael Kish (Henrico '22) 

Jacob Lee (Chesterfield '21) 

Nathan Lord* (Richmond '20) 

Andrew Park (Prince George '22) 

Casey Pridgen* (Chesterfield '20) 

Rahul Ramesh (Henrico '21) 

Ian Switzer* (Chesterfield '19) 

Alan Watts (Richmond '22)

*Top 6 who competed for team at States

GIRLS:
Congratulations team members and volunteer coaches Mike Miller and Julie Finnegan for an outstanding season on the court. This win is the third consecutive 2A State title for the Dragons!

Samantha Finnegan (Hanover '20) and Natalie Kim (Chesterfield '20) won the 2A Doubles championship; Samantha also won the Singles title.

Farewell to seniors Libby McCoy, Narmeen Rashid, Yashnoor Sandhu, and Kathryn Werwath. Thank you for four great years.

Girls Roster:
Minji Cho (Chesterfield '21)
Samantha Finnegan* (Hanover '20)
Alessia Giusti (Henrico '20)
Abigail Joyce (Chesterfield '20)
Natalie Kim* (Chesterfield '20)
Grace Liu* (Henrico '21)
Frances McCoy (Richmond '21)
Kyra Murphy (Henrico '21)
Narmeen Rashid* (Chesterfield '19)
Yashnoor Sandhu (Henrico '19)
Ananya Shah (Henrico '21)
Ivory Tang (Chesterfield '21)
Kathryn Werwath* (Richmond '19)
Kirby Westerfield* ('Henrico '22)
*Top 6 who competed for team at States

TRACK- BOYS AND GIRLS TEAMS WIN STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLES

MW track finished the year with championship titles at State and earned five team State titles across three seasons.

Boys and Girls Track Teams are the 2019 2A VHSL State Champions! With these results, the Dragons won six state team titles during the 2018-2019 season.

Individual champions:

Josh Pei (Henrico '19)- Pole Vault 

Kaitlyn Baker (Henrico '22)- Pole Vault

Michael Schweiker (Richmond '19)- 800-Meter

Adam Sachs (Henrico '19)- 1600-Meter

Relay team champions: 

Boys 4×8 include Ben Blanchard (Henrico '22), Nat Gregory (Hanover '19), Carter Morgan (Henrico '20), and Michael Schweiker

Girls 4×8 include Megan Bale (Chesterfield '19), Kathleen Russo (Chesterfield '21), Josie Greer (Richmond '20), and Mary Kemp (Richmond '21)

Thanks go out to our superb coaching staff- Jim Holdren, Deborah Snagg, Ryan Webb, Bob Disse, and Bill Powers.

Up next- Nationals in North Carolina during mid-June where the coaches are taking Mary Caroline Heinen (Richmond '20), Ross Bazzichi (Chesterfield '22), Kaitlyn Baker, and Ben Blanchard.

MAGGIE L. WALKER MURAL ON CHANNEL 6

Thanks to WTVR CBS 6 for producing this lovely video about the recently completed collaborative mural project celebrating Maggie L. Walker.  Artist Colleen Hall wanted to bring people together to honor the many contributions of Maggie L. Walker.  Over 325 people helped paint the mural at 11 paint parties. Participants included alumni of the original Maggie L. Walker High School, along with current students, faculty, parents, and alumni of the Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School.

Facebook Link here

FALL FESTIVAL 2019 COMMITTEE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

Parents of rising Seniors, Juniors, Sophomores, and Freshmen-

As the school year winds down and we look forward to the summer, please consider volunteering for the Fall Festival 2019 committee. The committee begins its work as the 2019-20 school year starts. The festival is scheduled for Friday, October 4, 2019.

The festival relies on the help of parent volunteers. The festival showcases and funds the clubs and activities that enrich the student experience at MLWGS.

Two types of parent volunteers are needed- organizing committee volunteer and full day volunteers on the day of the festival. The full day volunteer is a new sub-group for parents who would like to participate on the committee but have limited time availability.

If you are interested in volunteering, please reach out to Gopal Bhagavatula gopalx@live.com

                                                

Thanks so much to all of the parents who contributed during the Foundation throughout the 2018-2019 school year. Parent participation is key, not only in helping us to raise the funds needed to support our students, but also to assist our efforts as we go into the community to seek funding. If you have not had a chance to make your gift there is still time to donate to the 2018-2019 Annual Fund. The Foundation still needs to raise over $20,000 by June 30th to meet our goal for 2019-2020

Current parent participation is as follows:

Senior parents (2019) 47%
Junior Parents (2020) 40%
Sophomore parents (2021) 43%
Freshman Parents (2022) 45%

We look forward to all that we can accomplish together for MLWGS!

SMOKE AND SCALES WISHES YOU A SAFE AND HAPPY SUMMER!

"See" you in the first 2019-2020 school year edition, scheduled for Wednesday, August 28; submission deadline is Sunday, August 25, 2019.

From your co-editors- 

Kim Lee (Megan Lee '18, Jacob Lee '21, Chesterfield)
Christine Wampler (Lucy Wampler Richmond '20) 

Week of June 5, 2019

SENIOR INFORMATION

Senior Showcase: Monday, June 10
Presentation sessions will be held throughout the day from 8:30 a.m.- 3:15 p.m. Each MLWGS senior will present his or her research to students, faculty, parents, and guests. Each mentorship student will give a 25-30 minute talk on his or her research and mentorship; each seminar student will participate in a group presentation of their research. All senior parents were mailed invitations to the event. An RSVP is not required to attend.

All students are encouraged to log onto their ItsLearning accounts to register for the sessions they wish to attend (registration session will be available on May 20). This is an incredible event, and it is an expectation that all MLWGS students will attend. Attending Senior Showcase is an excellent way for undergraduate students to learn more about the Senior Seminar/Mentorship program. Showcase attendance is one of the factors that will be considered when students apply for the Seminar/Mentorship Program. If you have questions, please contact Les Cook, Senior Seminar/Mentorship Coordinator at tcook@gsgis.k12.va.us.

Senior Picnic: Thursday, June 13, 12:00-2:00 p.m.

The Senior Picnic is the first official alumni event for the Class of 2019; it is sponsored by the Governor’s School Foundation and Alumni Office. The event will take place at the Carillon Shelter at Byrd Park, and students are asked to sign-up to bring desserts, drinks, paper goods, and chips. The Foundation will assist in providing the main meal. Any parent who wishes to help serve at this event, please contact the class sponsor, Kerry Sheppard 804-354-6800 ext. 3304 ksheppard@gsgis.k12.va.us. 

Baccalaureate Service: Thursday, June 13 at 6:30 p.m.
The Baccalaureate Service will take place at Reveille United Methodist Church (4200 Cary Street Road). Sponsored by the MLWGS PTSA, the inter-faith service begins promptly at 6:30 p.m. and will last one hour. Students are not required to attend, but this traditional and memorable event celebrates finishing one chapter in their lives and beginning the next. Information regarding line-up and parking will be included in the official invitation from the PTSA, which will arrive by mail. Seniors are reminded to bring both cap and gown for the ceremony.

Graduation Rehearsal: Friday, June 14 at 9:00 a.m., Altria Theater, 6 N. Laurel Street
Graduation rehearsal is held at the Altria Theater. Parking is available at the VCU parking deck for a minimal fee (entrances are on Cherry and Laurel Streets). Please adhere to posted street parking signs as ticketing and towing are strictly enforced. Seniors must arrive no later than 8:45 a.m. and report to the downstairs ballroom (enter through the Main Street entrance towards the rear of the building). Rehearsal will begin at 9:00 a.m. sharp. ANY STUDENT WHO MISSES REHEARSAL WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO WALK IN THE ACTUAL GRADUATION CEREMONY, so parents are asked to please work with your student to make sure he or she is on time. Practice is usually completed by 11:30 a.m. or so, but given that we will take as long as needed to perfect the process, please do not plan anything that requires your student to leave early or be gone by a certain time. This run-through is crucial to the success of the graduation ceremony.

Graduation: Friday, June 14 at 3:00 p.m., Altria Theater, 6 N. Laurel Street
Graduates must arrive at the downstairs ballroom by 2:00 p.m. For organizational reasons, this area is off limits to parents, relatives, and friends; we appreciate your understanding. Cap, gown, and tassel are the most required items for the day, but students are asked to dress appropriately: dark dress pants, collared shirts with ties, or dresses. Students may wear cords earned as part of their membership in our Honor Societies (as has been our custom). Students may wear one piece of additional pre-approved regalia, which they have earned as a member of an enduring MLWGS organization. All pieces of regalia will be distributed by sponsors in the days leading up to graduation.

Perhaps the most important clothing decision for the day, however, is shoes. Remember, you are walking up and down steps and across a long stage. Dress shoes with socks or low-heeled dress shoes are the most appropriate; “flip-flops” and athletic shoes are not permitted. 

Doors to Altria Theater will open at 2:30 p.m. Guests should enter through the front doors and must have a ticket to attend graduation. Seating is not reserved. Handicap seating is available in multiple locations; please see one of the ushers at the door upon your arrival if you need this seating. Parking for graduation is available at the VCU parking deck for a minimal fee (entrances are on Cherry and Laurel Streets.) Please adhere to posted street parking signs as ticketing and towing are strictly enforced.

During the ceremony, parents may only take photos from their seats. Altria Theater will not permit us to spill into the aisles for this activity, and they enforce this quite seriously. Wendell Powell Studio will be taking pictures of each individual student as he/she receives his/her diploma. After graduation, go to https://wendellpowellstudio.shootproof.com/gallery/8780793 and use the password MWSR19 to find the proof and ordering instructions for your student’s photograph.

Graduation activities should conclude by 6:00 p.m.

As a special year-end privilege, juniors will be able to use the student parking lot June 3-14, on a first come first served basis with the exception of Monday, June 10, the day of Senior Showcase.  Juniors are reminded not to park in faculty or visitor spots. We have approximately 150 student parking spaces. STUDENTS WHO PARK IN THE LOT BEFORE JUNE 3 MAY BE TOWED!




No Bus Transportation Service for Henrico Students on June 11

On Tuesday, June 11, Henrico County Public Schools will not be providing bus transportation to MLWGS. This is due to Henrico’s decision to close for Primary Day. As MLWGS is not a polling station we will be open for normal educational operations on June 11. Students coming to MLWGS from Henrico will be responsible for arranging their own transportation. If they are unable to do so, they will be given a school excused absence for the day. They will, however, need to reschedule their Block 2 and Block 8 exams if this is the case.

Want to Hone Your Research Wizardry Skills in 2019-20? 

Complete this Interest Survey!

Genealogy, health research, balanced news searching, research resources for writers, accessing literary journals and/or popular magazines without subscriptions or clutter. If you’d like to learn more about one of these topics (or another research topic) in library workshops either before or after school next year, please answer this brief interest survey:http://bit.ly/curiousdragons




MUSIC IN THE PARKS COMPETITION

On Saturday, June 1, the Maggie Walker Jazz Ensemble traveled to Lafayette High School to compete in the Music in the Parks competition. The ensemble received first place in their division with a superior rating. Additionally, student guitarist Nathan Neuwirth received the superior soloist medal. Congratulations to our hard-working student musicians for their recognition!

Delaney Cotton (Hanover '21)
Samual Hodges (Richmond '21)
Helen Hopkins (Chesterfield '21)
William Kelly VI (Powhatan '21)
Kyra Murphy (Henrico '21)
Keriann Slayton (Hanover '21)
Noah Welenteychik (Henrico '21)
Ankit Agrawal (Henrico '22)
Alexis Bartee (Chesterfield '22)
Brianna Bartlett (New Kent '22)
Matteo DeLuca (Henrico '22)
Ryan Eklund (Richmond '22)
Lorenzo Galang (Chesterfield '22)
Catherine Garrison (Hanover '22)
Timothy Graff (Hanover '22)
Emma Hunter (Richmond '22)
Ronit Jain (Henrico '22)
Devon Jebo (Henrico '22)
Nathan Neuwirth (Henrico '22)
Anna Pulaski (New Kent '22)
Albert Tang (Chesterfield '22)
Zachary Wooden (Henrico '22)




MW Senior Taha Shaikh achieves High School Diploma and Advanced Bach Plaque with The Piano Guild

Taha Shaikh (Henrico '19)
Attending: Virginia Tech

Congratulations Taha Shaikh for the achievement of High School Diploma in Social Music with The Piano Guild, a division of the American College of Musicians. Less than 50 students earned this Diploma across the entire United States. These prestigious awards earn him membership in the International College of Musicians.

The Guild’s primary function is to establish definite goals and awards–in noncompetitive auditions–for students of all levels, from the earliest beginner to the gifted prodigy. With the exception of “special” programs, teachers have the flexibility to choose all repertoire for student auditions. Students are judged on individual merit, by a well-qualified music professional, in the areas of accuracy, continuity, phrasing, pedaling, dynamics, rhythm, tempo, tone, interpretation, style, and technique. The Guild’s purpose is to encourage growth and enjoyment through the study of piano.

Instructor, Barbara Muldowney of Muldowney Studio, said “Taha has achieved awards in piano on the National level. He has competed in the National Piano Guild auditions for the last 3 years. He was first awarded the High School Diploma in Social Music in May of 2017 and awarded the full Diploma in May of 2018. Wishing to further challenge himself, Taha studied for the Advanced Bach Plaque this year and was awarded this medal 2 weeks ago. He played a 15 piece program of advanced Bach pieces, memorized. The judge was so impressed with his playing, she asked him to play more when his audition ended. Taha is a very talented pianist, if he wished to major in music, he would be accepted at all the major music conservatories.”

The Piano Guild is a rigorous test that there are only about eight teachers in the area who even participate. Students are graded on all elements of their music.

Thanks so much to all of the parents who contributed during the Foundation's May Parent Annual Fund Campaign. Parent participation is key, not only in helping us to raise the funds needed to support our students, but also to assist our efforts as we go into the community to seek funding. If you have not had a chance to make your gift there is still time to donate to the 2018-2019 Annual Fund. The Foundation still needs to raise over $30,000 by June 30 to meet our goal for 2019-2020.

Current parent participation is as follows:

Senior parents (2019) 46%
Junior Parents (2020) 37%
Sophomore parents (2021) 42%
Freshman Parents (2022) 45%

We look forward to all that we can accomplish together for MLWGS!