WYNK: May 5 - 11, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

 
 

MONDAY, MAY 5

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

TUESDAY, MAY 6

  • No Gym - OBXers should be at school by 9:00 am

  • Co-Ops Continue

  • OBX #4 - National Museum of Marine Corps departs at 9:00 am (info)

  • Graduation Parent Volunteers’ Temple Tour in Alexandria at 10:15 am (info)

  • AP Exam - US Government & Politics begins at 12:00 pm, students should arrive at GWCS by 11:45 am (info)

WEDNESDAY, MAY 7

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • DUE in Advisory: Weekly Wednesday Internship Survey (click here)

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Art Club with Ms. Albert from 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm

THURSDAY, may 8

  • DUE: Graduation Fee for Seniors (info)

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Coyote Cafe Lunch option in Kids Kitchen (info/menu)

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies with Mr. Goldie from 3:20 pm - 5:30 pm

FRIDAY, MAY 9

  • AP Exam - US History begins at 8:00 am, students should arrive at GWCS by 7:45 am (info)

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm


    GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

    2025-2026 School-Year-at-a-Glance - Updated 4.22.25

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OBX #4: National Museum of the Marine Corps

may 6, 2025

 
 

The National Museum of the Marine Corps in Quantico is a lasting tribute to the accomplishments, sacrifices, and images of the legacy of the United State Marine Corps.  Immersive galleries exhibit the artifacts of U.S. Marines, their uniforms, their equipment, and their vehicles.  Prepare to experience 250 years of United States Marine Corps history as you step into the sights and sounds of Marines in action.

About:

  • Destination: National Museum of the Marine Corps, Quantico

  • Depart: GWCS at 9:00 am (Go directly to school - NO GYM) 

  • Pickup: GWCS at 3:15 pm 

  • Bring/Wear:

  • Lunch: Bring money for lunch at the Dog Diner in the Museum

  • Transportation: School Van & Cars

QUESTIONS? CONTACT: 

Mr. Lindner
lindnergt@gwcommunityschool.com

Thank you to the GWCS Foundation!

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Attention Graduation Parent Volunteers…

Tour the GW Masonic National Memorial
Tuesday, May 6, 2025 @ 10:15 am

Dear GWCS Parents,

We’re inviting all graduation volunteers to join us for a walk-through of The George Washington Masonic National Memorial on Tuesday, May 6th at 10:15 am. The memorial is typically closed to the public on Tuesdays, so this is a special opportunity to preview the space while it's quiet.

We’ll spend about 30 minutes getting oriented with both the ceremony and reception areas, so everyone feels comfortable and ready for graduation day.

Location:

The George Washington Masonic National Memorial
101 Callahan Drive, Alexandria, VA 22301

We’ll all make our own way there and back, but feel free to coordinate carpools if you'd like to ride together.

It’s BYOC (bring your own coffee)—we’ll keep things casual and efficient.

Thank you again for volunteering your time and energy—we’re looking forward to seeing you there!

Warmly,

Alexa
wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com

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AP Exams Proctored at GWCS…

beginning the Week of May 5th

GWCS students who are taking AP Exams will receive information from their respective teachers.

  • Tuesday, May 6 - US Government & Politics begins promtly at 12:00 pm. Arrive at GWCS by 11:45 am.

  • Friday, May 9 - US History Exam begins promptly at 8:00 am. Arrive at GWCS by 7:45 am.

IMPORTANT! WHAT IF YOU HAVE AN AP EXAM ON INTERNSHIP DAY (tuesday, May 6th)?

Any Co-Op students taking the AP US Government & Politics exam on Tuesday 5/6 should notify their internship supervisor via email and cc Ms. Warden at wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com.

College Board AP Exam Information

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It’s Time…

to celebrate our Teachers & staff!

May 5-9, 2025

Thank you to all who have contributed and signed up for gifts and meals! It's going to be a fun week! If you have not had the opportunity to contribute, please refer to the emails that I sent to you via Cassie for information. We still have some needs to show our gratitude to our amazing teachers and staff. Here is the sign-up. 

Click Here TO SIGN UP to help with teacher appreciation week

  • Monday, May 5: Breakfast Treats with Coffee

  • Tuesday, May 6: Gifts

  • Wednesday, May 7: Gift Baskets Preview

  • Thursday, May 8: Take Home Dinners

  • Friday, May 9:  Lunch from Spartans and Gift Baskets Raffle

 
 

Questions? Contact:

Sharon Lin
GWCS Parent Volunteer
sjchen27@cox.net
202.360.3559

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A Fundraiser to Fuel Success…

Dear GWCS Community,

Thank you so much to everyone who has already donated to the GW Community School Foundation Giving Forward campaign! Every contribution is tax deductible, and directly supports the programs, events, and activities that enrich the GWCS student experience. We appreciate your generosity as we work toward our ambitious $50,000 fundraising goal!

🎉 Celebrating 25 Years of GWCS

As we kick off the celebration of 25 Years of GWCS, we’re going back to the beginning—with our founders, Rick Goldie and Alexa Warden: the “G” and “W” in GWCS. Alum Kait Lemoine (Class of  2011) asked them about those early days:

Why did you start GW Community School?

Alexa Warden (AW): We started GW Community school because we were so dissatisfied with existing programs. We wanted to work in a school that put teaching and learning—and kids—above all else.

Rick Goldie (RG):  Among the many reasons to start an alternative school, two stand-out.  First, Alexa and I had both had disappointing (traumatizing) experiences working for other private schools so  that we knew we could do a better job if we started our own.  Second, we believed (still believe) that the modern school system cannot possibly (how could it?) meet the needs of every student.  We talked to a lot of bright kids who were getting bad grades and knew that a smaller, more attentive, more personal version of high school would be in demand if it were offered.

What challenges did you have to overcome in the beginning?

AW: The biggest challenge we faced in the beginning was the same as it is today! Rick and I have incredibly high standards for ourselves and we wear a lot of hats! 

RG: The biggest challenges in the beginning were finding 'like minded' people to come teach with us, and establishing a philosophy that could be followed and supported by everyone.  Truthfully, the school was easy to start and sustain, once we got going.  Turning the basement of the building into a place of education was probably the hardest part, but at least we had three weeks to get it all built-out and finished.

What are the secret ingredients that make GWCS successful?

AW: Really loving what we do and cultivating an environment where everyone can find and be themselves.

RG: I would not call anything we do a 'secret.'  The ingredients are pretty obvious: Passion, hard work,  dedication, caring, clarity of purpose, community, etc.  If we do have a secret ingredient, it could only be one thing: Alexa.  She is not one in a million, she is one of one.  There is no other.  She is both the softest and the strongest of all people.  Everyone is drawn to her.  She is the unique ingredient that makes GWCS what it is. 

👉 DONATE NOW at gwcsfoundation.org/donate

What do you both wish you knew when you were starting out - what piece of advice would you give your younger selves?

AW: I wouldn’t give us any advice! We were young enough and naive enough to believe that we could create an almost magical educational environment—and when you really believe in something, it materializes. 

RG: When the ownership of the building was in turmoil (2001?), we should have bought the building.  Owning the building would have made our lives so much easier, from collecting rent from the upper floors, to expanding the school, or opening a deli in the front of the first floor.  We were afraid to go into that much debt, but knowing what I know now, that would have been the way to go.   If I could send a message to me in 1999, I would tell myself to find a way to buy the building.

We’ve all learned so much from you. Looking back over 25 years, what lessons have you learned?

AW: Trust your gut. Seek first to understand. Be real with yourself and others. When faced with a moral dilemma, the hardest choice is always the right one. And never stop having fun.

RG: Philosophically, I have gotten much better at understanding that my students do not have the same goals (priorities) that I do.  We have to meet 'where we are,'  in the middle somewhere.  I used to believe that I could motivate students with passion alone.  Ultimately I realized that 'one man's passion is another man's complete lack of interest."  Every lesson (every action) has to withstand criticism and/or indifference, and be followed-up with another approach or another  thought or another spin.  Then on to the next thing.

🔁 Giving Forward Means Giving Back

Every one of us holds memories of transformative moments at GWCS. Through the Giving Forward campaign, you can help pass those moments on to the next generation.

Your donation helps support:

  • The new scholarship program for students facing financial hardship

  • Signature programs and clubs like Theater, Basketball, Cooking (in the new student  kitchen!), OBX, and more

  • A vibrant and inclusive student community 

🎁 Make your tax-deductible gift today: gwcsfoundation.org/donate

With thanks for your support, 

Andrea Spiegel
Fundraising, GW Community School Foundation

PS: Gifts of $1,000 or more will be honored with a personalized, engraved plaque displayed at GWCS.


🎉 In celebration of our 25th year, Diamond Legacy Donors can name a space at the school—imagine the Smith Family Coyote Cafe or the Jane Doe GWCS Theater! We’ll help you create a meaningful legacy.

>>>>>

>>>>>

👉 DONATE NOW!

<<<<<

<<<<<

TICKET SALES DEADLINE:

  • Friday, May 30, 2025

HOW TO GET YOUR TICKET…

  1. PAY WITH CASH - put $40 per ticket in an envelope with student’s name and ‘Prom Ticket’ on front of envelope and give it to Mrs. Kohler.

  2. PAY ONLINE WITH CREDIT CARD - Click Here!

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GWCS 2024-2025 Chronicle Yearbook…

Place your order by June 6th
before the price jumps!

Alright Coyotes! Listen up! It's go-time to lock in your very own GWCS Chronicle Yearbook – your personal time capsule of awesomeness! Imagine flipping through pages of side-splitting candids, reliving those unforgettable school events, and yes, even cringing (in a good way!) at those iconic hairstyles. Don't let these memories fade away! Order your yearbook today before that price does a high jump!

ORDER FORM:

Price:

  • $50 if ordered by June 6, 2025

  • $65 if ordered after June 6, 2025

Payment:

  • Send in cash or a check payable to GWCS

    -or-

  • Click Here to pay by credit card online

YEARBOOK PICK-UP PARTY:

Mark your summer calendar! On Thursday, August 14, 2025 from 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm GWCS will host a Yearbook Signing Party followed by a Summer Movie Marathon from 2:00 pm - 9:00 pm!

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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Graduation 2025 ~ Come One, Come All!

save the date: Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 11:00 am

All Students & Parents Encouraged to Attend!

Mark your calendars for this year’s GWCS Graduation Ceremony on June 7th, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. All GWCS students and parents are expected to attend. Celebrating our seniors’ achievements is a community effort, and your presence makes the day even more meaningful.

Every time you attend our graduation ceremony, you gain a deeper appreciation for what this milestone represents—both for the graduates and for your own student when their time comes. The attendance of the entire GWCS community gives our seniors a heartfelt and supportive send-off in true community style.

All guests should be seated by 10:45 AM to ensure a smooth start. Keep an eye on the WYNK for volunteer opportunities to help make this day truly special.

Let’s come together to honor our seniors and celebrate their success!

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Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Xerces” – Deftones

I have wanted to do a write-up on Deftones for a while now. It wasn’t until last week when I had been listening to Deftones on shuffle that I realized that they have a variety of songs and not just adrenaline songs. Not kidding, many people call Deftones “the Radiohead of metal” because of their experimental nature.

“Xerces” has a very atmospheric and ethereal feeling like it will transport you to another world of foggy, sensual beauty. The Xerces Blue butterfly became extinct in the early 1940’s. Which leads one to think that song is about death. Perhaps someone’s final goodbye wishes, someone on their deathbed. A release.

"Xerces" - Deftones (Official Audio)

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Rock the Cashbah” – The Clash

Recommended by Brendan

“Rock the Casbah” originally began as a song centered around Topper Headon’s, the drummer of The Clash, ex-girlfriend. However, the song took on an entirely different meaning when Headon quit the band due to an addiction problem before the song was released at the start of the band's Combat Rock tour.

When Joe Strummer took Headon’s place as drummer, “Rock the Cashbah” turned into an anthem centered around the persecution of the Iranian people for enjoying music, particularly for owning a disco album at the time. The groove in this song isn’t quite disco (it is the Clash after all!) to reflect the political subject matter.

“Rock the Casbah” was The Clash’s biggest hit. It made it to number six on the Billboard Hot Tracks. The song and the rest of the album, “Combat Rock” have proven to be incredibly influential on modern music and are worth your listen.

"Rock the Cashbah" - The Clash (Official Music Video)

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Sister” - Tennis

“Sister" is a song by the American indie pop duo Tennis. It’s s generally well-received as a standout track on their new album “Face Down in the Garden.” It is the band’s tenth album. The song got good reviews for its beautiful and weightless opening, evolving into a breezy, mid-tempo rhythm. The song evokes a sense of fleeting joy, with lyrics like “forget all of our troubles if only for a little while” summarizing the album's overall theme. 

The lead signer voice, Alaina Moore, has an ethereal quality that cuts through the mix. There is a weariness there too. The song offers a quiet aching goodbye. The beat is breezy that will have you bobbing your head. If you are looking for something serious, this isn’t it. If you are looking for a song that is light, wistful, and cool, you have found it.

"Sister" - Tennis (Official Audio)

 
 

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

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SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: April 26 - May 4, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

MONDAY, APRIL 28

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Burke Fire Department Field Trip with Ms. Kohler departs at 9:45 am (info)

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

TUESDAY, APRIL 29

  • No Gym - OBXers should be at school by 9:00 am

  • Co-Ops Continue

  • OBX #2 - Udvar-Hazy departs at 9:00 am (info)

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Art Club with Ms. Albert from 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm

THURSDAY, may 1

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Coyote Cafe Lunch option in Kids Kitchen (info/menu)

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies with Mr. Goldie from 3:20 pm - 5:30 pm

FRIDAY, MAY 2

  • Regular morning schedule - First Period Gym thru 4th Period

  • No afternoon classes!

  • GWCS Palooza 2025 from 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm (info)

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

    GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

    2025-2026 School-Year-at-a-Glance - Updated 4.22.25

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Dear GWCS Community,

It’s hard to believe, but GW Community School is celebrating 25 incredible years! As we reflect on a quarter-century of learning, growth, and community, the GWCS Foundation is proud to launch this year’s annual fundraising campaign with a special theme — Giving Forward — and a bold goal of $50,000.

As many of you know, the GWCS Foundation supports programs and activities that enhance and enrich the GWCS student experience.

This year, we’re especially excited to announce a few new developments:

🎓 Scholarship Program — The GWCS Foundation is planning to launch scholarships to support students facing financial hardship. Your donations will help make this possible and ensure that every student has access to the full GWCS experience.

🏅 Recognition for Major Donors — Gifts of $1,000 or more will be honored with a personalized, engraved plaque displayed at the school.

💎 25th Anniversary Legacy Opportunities — In celebration of this milestone year, our Diamond Legacy Donors will have the unique chance to name a space at GWCS. Imagine the Smith Family Coyote Cafe or the Jane Doe GWCS Theater! We’ll work with you to find a naming opportunity that’s meaningful to you and your student.

All donations to the GWCS Foundation are tax-deductible, and directly impact every
GWCS student.

~~~~~~~~> DONATE NOW! <~~~~~~~~

In the coming weeks, we’ll celebrate GWCS’ 25th year with highlights from the early days…all the way to the soon-to-be-graduating Class of 2025. We’ll also share stories that show the real impact your generosity has on GWCS students, including support for:

  • Academic Enrichment: SLAY outdoor projects, experiential field trips, guest speakers, and more

  • Signature Trips & Activities: OBX Learning Experiences, Junior Gettysburg Trip, Senior Essay Writing Retreat, Camp Coyote

  • Student Clubs: Theater, History in Movies, Yearbook, and beyond

  • GWCS Traditions: Homecoming, Heritage Feast, Event Night, Coyote Day

Here are just a couple of examples of how your donations are making a difference:

  1. Thanks to GWCS Foundation support, every GWCS student enjoyed Camp Coyote, a beloved tradition started over a decade ago.

2. Through funding for the student kitchen renovation, students are learning everything from food science to recipe development and, of course, taste-testing. Talk about a win-win-win!

The GWCS Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, founded in 2014 by a group of committed parents. It continues today with the mission of providing financial support to enhance and enrich the student experience at GWCS.

We’d be honored to have your support as we Give Forward in celebration of this milestone year. To learn more and make your tax-deductible donation, please go to gwcsfoundation.org.

With thanks and gratitude,

Suzanne Parisi
President, GW Community School Foundation

Andrea Spiegel
Fundraising, GW Community School Foundation

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Field Trip: Burke Fire Department…

Ms. Kohler’s Chemistry & Cognitive CAPACITIES Classes

On Monday, April 28, 2025, the GWCS Chemistry and Cognitive Capacities classes are going on a field trip to the Burke Fire Department to learn all about fire chemistry and safety. Students will also get a tour of the facility and closeup views of all the different equipment and gadgets in stock. Students should come ready with questions to ask the firefighters! Students must wear closed-toed shoes, and a bagged lunch is recommended since we might get back to lunch a little late. 

Parents, please sign and have your student return the GWCS Permission Slip linked below. Your student was also given a physical copy of the permission slip for you to sign and return. You can email Mrs. Kohler your signed permission slip if preferred. 

click here - Burke Fire department field trip permission Slip

FIELD TRIP DETAILS:

  • Where: Burke Fire Department

  • When: Monday, April 28, 2025

  • Depart: GWCS at 9:45am 

  • Return: to GWCS at 11:45am 

  • Bring: Bagged lunch (recommended)

  • Wear: Closed-toed shoes 

  • Method of Transportation: GWCS Van 

  • Return Permission Form by: Monday, April 28, 2025 

Questions? Contact:

Mrs. Kohler 
kohlerja@gwcommunityschool.com

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OBX #3: Udvar- Hazy Air & Space Museum… 

April 29, 2025

Destination: The Udvar-Hazy Air & Space Museum, Dulles VA

The Udvar-Hazy Air & Space Museum is named for Stephen Udvar-Hazy, a Hungarian immigrant who came to America with an abiding fascination with human flight. The museum opened in 2003 and displayed many artifacts that simply wouldn’t fit in the Washington, DC museum. We will see amazing exhibits and machines that first lifted humans off the ground in balloons and then elevated them into outer space in massive rockets. Famous aircraft like the Space Shuttle Discovery, the Enola Gay, and the super-sonic Concorde will be parts of the tour.

About:

  • Depart: GWCS: 9:00 am (Go directly to school - NO GYM) 

  • Pickup: GWCS: 3:15 pm 

  • Bring/Wear: Smart Attire (No sweats, pajamas), Good walking shoes - No back-packs

  • Lunch: Students should bring cash for the on-site cafe ($20-$25) 

  • Transportation: School Van & Cars

QUESTIONS? CONTACT: 

Mr. Howarth
HowarthD@gwcommunityschool.com

Thank you to the GWCS Foundation!

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Teacher Appreciation Week… May 5-9, 2025

GWCS Faculty and Staff go above and beyond the call of duty from before the first day of school until after graduation.   This is never clearer than second semester.  In addition to individualized teaching and advising, faculty are organizing senior internships, taking underclassmen on OBX experiences, and organizing multi-day trips for students.   We invite everyone to join us in showing appreciation the week of May 5-9.    

Parents – we need your help!

An email was sent to all GWCS parents (on Thursday, April 24th) with all of the details about plans for Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week.  We need help with gifts and as volunteers for specific tasks. The email includes a detailed signup for contributions and volunteer opportunities. One item that I wish to highlight is Take Home Dinners where a family prepares a dinner for a staff member to take home and enjoy. Please sign up for a meal on the Google Sheet linked below and we will let the staff pick. Please note that we will need at least two vegetarian meals. Thank you!

Click Here for the Teacher Meals Sign Up Sheet

Questions? Contact:

Sharon Lin
GWCS Parent Volunteer
sjchen27@cox.net

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Everybody is Invited…

Get ready for some fun! We're inviting you to come hang out, listen to music, pet the animals, and enjoy good food. Just bring a comfy blanket or your favorite lawn chair to chill on, and maybe some cash for the awesome Frozen Treats Food Truck. The best part? Lunch from Cafe Rio is totally on us – no charge! See you on the lawn at GWCS!

 
 

Questions? Contact:

Mrs. Kohler
kohlerja@gwcommunityschool.com

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GWCS 2024-2025 Chronicle Yearbook…

Place your order by June 6th
before the price jumps!

Alright Coyotes! Listen up! It's go-time to lock in your very own GWCS Chronicle Yearbook – your personal time capsule of awesomeness! Imagine flipping through pages of side-splitting candids, reliving those unforgettable school events, and yes, even cringing (in a good way!) at those iconic hairstyles. Don't let these memories fade away! Order your yearbook today before that price does a high jump!

ORDER FORM:

Price:

  • $50 if ordered by June 6, 2025

  • $65 if ordered after June 6, 2025

Payment:

  • Send in cash or a check payable to GWCS

    -or-

  • Click Here to pay by credit card online

YEARBOOK PICK-UP PARTY:

Mark your summer calendar! On Thursday, August 14, 2025 from 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm GWCS will host a Yearbook Signing Party followed by a Summer Movie Marathon from 2:00 pm - 9:00 pm!

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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AP Exams Proctored at GWCS…

beginning the Week of May 5th

GWCS students who are taking AP Exams will receive information from their respective teachers.

  • Tuesday, May 6 - US Government & Politics at 12:00 pm

  • Friday, May 9 - US History Exam at 8:00 am

WHAT IF YOU HAVE AN AP EXAM ON INTERNSHIP DAY (tuesday, May 6th)?

Any Co-Op students taking the AP US Government & Politics exam on Tuesday 5/6 should notify their internship supervisor via email and cc Ms. Warden at wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com.

College Board AP Exam Information

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Graduation 2025 ~ Come One, Come All!

save the date: Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 11:00 am

All Students & Parents Encouraged to Attend!

Mark your calendars for this year’s GWCS Graduation Ceremony on June 7th, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. All GWCS students and parents are expected to attend. Celebrating our seniors’ achievements is a community effort, and your presence makes the day even more meaningful.

Every time you attend our graduation ceremony, you gain a deeper appreciation for what this milestone represents—both for the graduates and for your own student when their time comes. The attendance of the entire GWCS community gives our seniors a heartfelt and supportive send-off in true community style.

All guests should be seated by 10:45 AM to ensure a smooth start. Keep an eye on the WYNK for volunteer opportunities to help make this day truly special.

Let’s come together to honor our seniors and celebrate their success!

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Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Black” – Pearl Jam

The other day, during one of the various times I’ve been listen to “Black,” my dad said, “Black is one of the best break-up songs ever written and I thought to myself “Wow… you are absolute right!”

Pearl Jam has put out so much outstanding music and though “Black” is not the most original choice from Pearl Jam, I have been listening to this on a non-stopped song for WEEKS! The amount of emotion and power Eddie Vedder in his voice on this track is irreplaceable.

Vedder stated that “Black” reflected an intense heartbreak, suspectedly from his high school girl friend Beth Liebling. “I take a walk outside. /I'm surrounded by. /Some kids at play. /I can feel their laughter. / So why do I sear.” These passionate emotions made beautiful, poetic lyricism. “I know someday you'll have a beautiful life. /I know you'll be a star. /In somebody else's sky. /But why? /Why? /Why can't it be? /Why can't it be mine?!”

"Black" - Pearl Jam (Official Audio)

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Love In The Dark” – Adele

Recommended by Señor Paul

I believe that Adele is one of the finest voices of this generation. A towering talent! I know that she is already popular, but I don’t think we talk about her enough!

Adele's “Love in the Dark” is a slow, melancholic, and a very lovely song.  Adele expresses her desire to leave her relationship with her partner, but her heart still pulls her back. She asks him not to come closer and not to change his mind, believing this will be best for both of them. “Please stay where you are. /Don't come any closer. /Don't try to change my mind.” In the chorus, she sings about their relationship being in a bad place, leaving her with uncertainty. “I can’t love you in the dark.” She wants a well-lit, direction, purpose, or certainty relationship.

"Love In The Dark" - Adele (Official Audio)

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Moving on” – Lexi Jones

Lexi Jones has quietly released her debut album “Xandri” April 2, 2025. Levi Jones is David Bowie’s daughter. While is not possible to completely live outside of the genius that is her father, she makes every effort to do so – and does quite a good job of it.

She wrote and produced the album herself.  It has a demo feel in that it doesn’t feel overproduced, and I think that’s a good thing. The standout track on the album, “Moving on,” feels new and familiar at the same time. There are 60’s influences in the song, like the way it imitates classical music synthetically the way the bands like the Beatles did. Her voice is modern though and comes through to make the song something new. We should keep an eye on Lexi Jones and nepotism has nothing do with it.

"Moving on" - Lexi Jones (Official Audio)

 
 

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

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SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: April 20 - 27, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

MONDAY, APRIL 21

  • No School - LAST DAY OF SPRING BREAK 2025!

TUESDAY, april 22

  • No Gym - OBXers should be at school by 9:00 am

  • Co-Ops Continue

  • OBX #2 - NOVA Wild & Fairfax Lake Park departs at 9:00 am (info)

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23

  • Foundation Fundraiser Begins (info)

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Parent Planning Meeting - Teacher Appreciation at 12:00 pm via Zoom (info)

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Art Club with Ms. Albert from 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm

THURSDAY, APRIL 24

  • NO GYM for all students (Updated 4.23.25)

  • PSAT / SAT Testing from 7:30 am - 12:00 pm - later with certain accommodations (info)

  • Coyote Cafe Lunch option in Kids Kitchen (info/menu)

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies with Mr. Goldie from 3:20 pm - 5:30 pm)

FRIDAY, APRIL 25

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Parent Volunteer Graduation Planning Meeting at 12:00 pm in Ms. Warden’s Classroom - lunch provided (info)

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

    • Coyotes Care - Spring garden planning and prep during 7th period

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

    GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

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OBX #2
NOVA Wild & Lake Fairfax Park Adventure! 

April 22, 2025 (the day we return from Spring Break!)

DESTINATION: NOVA Wild and Lake Fairfax Park

On Tuesday, April 22nd the OBX crew will be headed to NOVA Wild for a wild and wonderful animal experience! Get up close with fascinating creatures, learn about conservation efforts, and maybe even feed a few friendly faces. 

After our safari-style fun, we’ll stroll over to Lake Fairfax Park for a picnic lunch and a hike —with a chance to do a little geocaching along the way!

About: 

  • Meet at GWCS: 9:00 am Sharp! (Go directly to school - NO GYM)

  • Pickup at GWCS: 3:15 pm

  • Wear: Dress for the weather: Wear comfortable walking shoes, long pants, and layers you can adjust throughout the day. 

  • Bring: Bag lunch and refillable water bottle. Coolers will be available for your lunch bags.

  • Transportation: School Van & Cars


Questions? Contact:

Mr. Connelly
connellytp@gwcommunityschool.com

Thank you to The GWCS Foundation!

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You Are Invited to a Planning Meeting…
 for Teacher Appreciation Week shhhhhhh

Via Zoom on TUESDAY, Apr 22, 2025 at 12:00 Noon

Hello Parents and Friends of GWCS!

Let’s get together to plan and brainstorm how we can show appreciation for our AWESOME teachers and staff. Teacher Appreciation Week is from Monday, May 5 through Friday, May 9. In the past, we have provided treats and/or gifts each day.

Currently, we are planning Take-Home-a-Dinner for Thursday 5/8 where a family provides a meal for a teacher to take home. On Friday 5/9 there will be a catered lunch; so this leaves us with Monday 5/5, Tuesday 5/6, and Wednesday 5/7 to plan more special things for our wonderful teachers!

Hope you can join me on a Zoom call on Tuesday, April 22 at noon. Zoom access information below - click to view login details. Thank you!

Sharon Lin
GWCS Parent Volunteer
sjchen27@cox.net

  • Topic: Parent Planning Meeting for Teacher Appreciation Week

    Time: Tuesday, Apr 22, 2025 12:00 PM Eastern Time

    Join Zoom Meeting
    https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87272464968?pwd=pzYzhUsCA5MSuuXJ3atZ6gfqIWOdEW.1

    Meeting ID: 872 7246 4968
    Passcode: 894008
    ---
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    +13017158592,,87272464968#,,,,*894008# US (Washington DC)
    +13052241968,,87272464968#,,,,*894008# US
    ---
    Dial by your location
    • +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)

    Meeting ID: 872 7246 4968
    Passcode: 894008
    Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcRvm4CxJ

Spring PSAT & SAT Day is Here…

thursday, april 24, 2025 beginning at 7:30 am!

Are you on the list of registered test takers? Read to find out…

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

SCHEDULE FOR THE DAY:

  • 7:30 am - Students taking PSAT or SAT should arrive at school (no gym for test takers) to get settled in testing room, laptop up and running, and logged into Bluebook app.

  • 8:00 am - PSAT & SAT exams begin promptly. No late seating allowed.

  • *8:00 am - NO GYM for all students. Non-test takers should report to school at 9:00 am.

    9:00 am - Adjusted classes for all students not taking an exam. All will be explained at school

  • 11:51 am - Regularly scheduled lunch for all. (Testers with extended time accommodations will be given time to have lunch at whatever time they are done.)

  • Afternoon schedule is as usual (info above)

* Updated 4.23.25

The following students are SCHEDULED TO TAKE THE PSAT 8/9 Exam:

  1. Aung Myat

  2. Brendan O’Connell

  3. Charlie Adamoli

  4. Hartly Llosa

  5. James Lin

  6. Joshua Diamond

  7. Lily Martin

  8. Matthew Oesterreich

  9. Nathaniel Dereje

  10. Peter Zeytoonian

  11. Ryan Carroll

THE FOLLOIWNG STudent is SCHEDULED TO TAKE THE PSAT 10 Exam:

  1. Brennan Morse

The following students are scheduled to take the SAT Exam:

  1. Amelia Schmutz

  2. Arish Nanjee

  3. Ben DeGregory

  4. Christopher Callahan

  5. Iris Dietrick

  6. Isabelle McCullough

  7. Lehanna Wilkins

  8. Mac Carbone

  9. Naomi Willis

  10. Ophelia Griff

  11. Shayna Schreibman

  12. Tyler McLean

All test takers should bring:

  1. Fully charged laptop with Bluebook app installed

  2. Laptop power cord

  3. External mouse and/or keyboard (if you use them)

  4. Approved calculator (psat calc info | sat calc info) with extra batteries (option to use calculator included in Bluebook app)

  5. Sharpened pencils

  6. Water bottle & snacks - there will be breaks (optional)

  7. Comprehensive online PSAT list of what to bring | SAT list of what to bring

BEFORE TESTING DAY:

  1. Students need to confirm they have a College Board online account (info)

  2. Students must have a Bluebook account with current UPDATES (info) and download the Bluebook app to their laptop.

  3. Need Help? Ask Charley!

STUDENTS WHO ARE NOT TAKING A TEST:

  • *NO GYM at 8:00 am

  • Morning classes will continue with some adjustments which will be explained at school next week.

  • Lunch and afternoon schedule as usual for everyone.

*Updated 4.23.25

GWCS uses the results of the PSATs & SATs to identify students' academic strengths and weaknesses, and then uses this data to strengthen the GWCS curriculum.

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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Graduation Planning Meeting: Round Two! 

Friday, April 25 at 12:00 pm

Join us for the next round of graduation planning on Friday, April 25th at 12:00 PM in Alexa’s Classroom. We’ll keep the planning rolling as we work together to shape an unforgettable graduation day. Whether you’ve been involved or are just jumping in, we’d love your ideas and energy.

Ledo’s pizza will be served, so bring your appetite and your creativity!

Please RSVP (by Thursday, April 24th) via the SignUpGenius button below so we know how much to order.

Click to RSVP for Grad Planning Meeting #2

 
 

Questions? Contact:

Mrs. Kohler
kohlerja@gwcommunityschool.com

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Graduation 2025 ~ Come One, Come All!

save the date: Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 11:00 am

All Students & Parents Encouraged to Attend!

Mark your calendars for this year’s GWCS Graduation Ceremony on June 7th, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. All GWCS students and parents are expected to attend. Celebrating our seniors’ achievements is a community effort, and your presence makes the day even more meaningful.

Every time you attend our graduation ceremony, you gain a deeper appreciation for what this milestone represents—both for the graduates and for your own student when their time comes. The attendance of the entire GWCS community gives our seniors a heartfelt and supportive send-off in true community style.

All guests should be seated by 10:45 AM to ensure a smooth start. Keep an eye on the WYNK for volunteer opportunities to help make this day truly special.

Let’s come together to honor our seniors and celebrate their success!

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Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Bring The Noise” – Public Enemy

“Bring the Noise” is a groundbreaking musical masterpiece at the birth of hip hop.  It laid the groundwork for what is now known as that classic Public Enemy sound. It has been copied over and over in the years since, but never quite as well. It featured a unique layered blend of samples and noise within a song structure, complemented by Chuck D's booming voice. The song broke new ground in rap, addressing political issues and the world.

“Bring The Noise” begins with a sample from Malcolm X saying, “Too black! /Too strong!” followed by a thunderous drum kick, and Flavor Flav's hyped-up adlibs. Chuck D describes a scenario where he is persecuted for his music and put in jail for supporting rights for African Americans. Chorus gets even noisier, with Chuck D announces, “Turn it Up,” and you better! The song also calls out Black radio and defends the artistic merits of Hip Hop compared to artists like Yoko Ono and Anthrax.

I wish rap now addressed more social issues today. It is a perfect art for doing so.

"Bring The Noise" - Public Enemy (Official Audio)

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Fall On Me” - REM

Recommended by Faiz

A quick and enduring favorite was "Fall on Me," which featured Stipe's adamant scream coupled to a pop-like melody on the album, “Life’s Rich Pageant”, which is an album with no skips. Stipe's lyrics were obscure and difficult to understand back then leading one to interpret the song in their own way. The chord progression mixed with a series of lines would infiltrate my brain and take root there.

The first line of the chorus, "Don't fall on me," refers to the song's primary topic, which was acid rain and its effects on the environment, even though R.E.M. vocalist Michael Stipe has called it "pretty much a song about oppression." Acid Rain, which happens when burning fossil fuels releases sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the sky, making rain corrosive and endangering the ecology, Bill Berry told Spin magazine in 1986.

It's a classic of the 80’s that deserves your listen now.

"Fall On Me" - REM (Official Music Video)

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Through My Teeth” – Spacey Jane

“Through My Teeth” is a song by the Australian band Spacey Jane, released on April 8, 2025. It's a single from their upcoming album, "If That Makes Sense," which is set to be released on May 9th. The thirteen-track album explores themes of falling in and out of love, overcoming trauma, and rebuilding.

The song has a great deal of creative confidence" with synths, crunchy indie rock, and a pop-leaning chorus. It has a longing and nostalgia that has the listener falling in love with the song – it goes until the very last fill, and we felt it was the perfect way to start the record.

It is not just indie though.  The song is poppy too. It’s got a nice beat that keeps you moving through the song. It sounds fresh and familiar at the same time.

"Through My Teeth" - Spacey Jane (Official Music Video)

 
 

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

 Back to Top

SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: April 12-21, 2025 SPRING BREAK!

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

MONDAY, APRIL 14

  • No School - SPRING BREAK!

TUESDAY, april 15

  • No School - SPRING BREAK!

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16

  • No School - SPRING BREAK!

THURSDAY, APRIL 17

  • No School - SPRING BREAK!

FRIDAY, APRIL 18

  • No School - SPRING BREAK!

MONDAY, APRIL 21

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R.E.A.L. Term Spring Co-Ops Update…

tHE lIST!

Congratulations to all our participating juniors and seniors who started their internships on Tuesday, April 8th. This is an exciting opportunity for them to gain valuable real-world experience in their areas of interest.

2025 Internship Placements:

  • Rock of Ages Music - Alexandria

  • Bond's Escape Room

  • Children's Science Center

  • Frying Pan Park

  • IvyRehab

  • Customized Legal Internship with Joe Parisi

  • Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food and Agriculture

  • Our Stomping Ground

  • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

  • Adams-Greene Funeral Home

  • Audrey Moore Senior Center

  • VCA Animal Hospital

  • Customized Internship focused on pursuing a Tattoo Artist Apprenticeship

We are excited to hear about their experiences and progress throughout the 4th quarter!

Questions? CONTACT:

Mrs. Dwyer
dwyerk@gwcommunityschool.com

Click Here to View GWCS Co-Op Info Sheet

OBX #2
NOVA Wild & Lake Fairfax Park Adventure! 

April 22, 2025 (the day we return from Spring Break!)

OBX APRIL PERMISSION FORM - DUE mONDAY 4/7

DESTINATION: NOVA Wild
and Lake Fairfax Park

On Tuesday, April 22nd the OBX crew will be headed to NOVA Wild for a wild and wonderful animal experience! Get up close with fascinating creatures, learn about conservation efforts, and maybe even feed a few friendly faces. 

After our safari-style fun, we’ll stroll over to Lake Fairfax Park for a picnic lunch and a hike —with a chance to do a little geocaching along the way!

About: 

  • Meet at GWCS: 9:00 am Sharp! (Go directly to school - NO GYM)

  • Pickup at GWCS: 3:15 pm

  • Wear: Dress for the weather: Wear comfortable walking shoes, long pants, and layers you can adjust throughout the day. 

  • Bring: Bag lunch and refillable water bottle. Coolers will be available for your lunch bags.

  • Transportation: School Van & Cars


Questions? Contact:

Mr. Connelly
connellytp@gwcommunityschool.com

Thank you to The GWCS Foundation!

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You Are Invited to a Planning Meeting…
 for Teacher Appreciation Week shhhhhhh

Via Zoom on Wednesday, Apr 22, 2025 at 12:00 Noon

Hello Parents and Friends of GWCS!

Let’s get together to plan and brainstorm how we can show appreciation for our AWESOME teachers and staff. Teacher Appreciation Week is from Monday, May 5 through Friday, May 9. In the past, we have provided treats and/or gifts each day.

Currently, we are planning a Take-Home-a-Dinner for Thursday 5/8 where a family provides a meal for a teacher to take home. On Friday 5/9 there will be a catered lunch; so this leaves us with Monday 5/5, Tuesday 5/6, and Wednesday 5/7 to plan more special things for our wonderful teachers!

Hope you can join me on a Zoom call on Wednesday, April 22 at noon. Zoom access information below - click to view. Thank you!

Sharon Lin
GWCS Parent Volunteer
sjchen27@cox.net

  • Topic: Parent Planning Meeting for Teacher Appreciation Week

    Time: Wednesday, Apr 22, 2025 12:00 PM Eastern Time

    Join Zoom Meeting
    https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87272464968?pwd=pzYzhUsCA5MSuuXJ3atZ6gfqIWOdEW.1

    Meeting ID: 872 7246 4968
    Passcode: 894008
    ---
    One tap mobile
    +13017158592,,87272464968#,,,,*894008# US (Washington DC)
    +13052241968,,87272464968#,,,,*894008# US
    ---
    Dial by your location
    • +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)

    Meeting ID: 872 7246 4968
    Passcode: 894008
    Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcRvm4CxJ

Spring PSAT & SAT Day:
OPT-IN or OPT-OUT Today!

attention all GWCS students!

 
 

What You Need to Know:

  • All GWCS 8th, 9th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 8/9 Exam

  • All GWCS 10th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 10 Exam

  • All 11th and 12th graders have the option to take the SAT Exam

ALL STUDENTS should opt-in or opt-out of the spring SAT/PSATs by clicking the button below.

GWCS uses the results of the PSAT for underclassmen to identify students' academic strengths and weaknesses, and then uses this data to strengthen the GWCS curriculum.

CLICK HERE TO OPT-IN OR OPT-OUT OF PSAT/SAT EXAM

What if you’re NOT scheduled to take an exam? Stay tuned for more details about test-day as we get closer to April. GWCS covers the cost this year.

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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Graduation Planning Meeting: Round Two! 

Friday, April 25 at 12:00 pm

Join us for the next round of graduation planning on Friday, April 25th at 12:00 PM in Alexa’s Classroom. We’ll keep the planning rolling as we work together to shape an unforgettable graduation day. Whether you’ve been involved or are just jumping in, we’d love your ideas and energy.

Ledo’s pizza will be served, so bring your appetite and your creativity!

Please RSVP (by Thursday, April 24th) via the SignUpGenius button below so we know how much to order.

Click to RSVP for Grad Planning Meeting #2

 
 

Questions? Contact:

Mrs. Kohler
kohlerja@gwcommunityschool.com

Back to Top

Graduation 2025 ~ Come One, Come All!

save the date: Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 11:00 am

All Students & Parents Encouraged to Attend!

Mark your calendars for this year’s GWCS Graduation Ceremony on June 7th, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. All GWCS students and parents are expected to attend. Celebrating our seniors’ achievements is a community effort, and your presence makes the day even more meaningful.

Every time you attend our graduation ceremony, you gain a deeper appreciation for what this milestone represents—both for the graduates and for your own student when their time comes. The attendance of the entire GWCS community gives our seniors a heartfelt and supportive send-off in true community style.

All guests should be seated by 10:45 AM to ensure a smooth start. Keep an eye on the WYNK for volunteer opportunities to help make this day truly special.

Let’s come together to honor our seniors and celebrate their success!

Back to Top

Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“One Step Closer” – Linkin Park

Linkin Park’s “Hybrid Theory” is truly a masterpiece. With huge hits like “In the End,” “Crawling,” and “One Step Closer,” make this album unforgettable. The way Linkin Park perfectly mesh tantalizing vocals, catchy guitar, and deep rage makes their music flawless.

“One Step Closer” was originally called “Shut Up” since the bridge is “Shut up when I’m talking to you!” “It [the bridge of “One Step Closer”] said, 'Hello, we are going to crush you.'" Chester Bennington said. Chester’s mom thought the bridge was funny because "shut up" was a "bad word" in their house when he was a kid.

"When we were recording it, (producer) Don Gilmore was really drilling me and Mike (Shinoda) about lyrics, and it had gotten to the point where we had rewritten some songs 30 times! I remember walking into the control room, handing Don the lyrics and he grabbed them, passed them in front of his face without even looking, handed them back to me, and told me to do it again. I lost my f****ing mind, thinking, 'This guy's a f****ing maniac!' But that kind of inspired the lyrics - 'I cannot take this anymore. /I'm saying everything I've said before. /All these words make no sense,' and the chorus, 'Everything you say to me takes me one step closer to the edge.' - it all came from that frustration…” Chester's said in an interview Kerrang! on January 29, 2011. His raw frustration makes “One Step Closer” an immensely, toweringly, memorable song.

"One Step Closer" - Linkin Park (Official Music Video)

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Us and Pigs” – SOFIA ISELLA

Recommended by Shayna

At just 18 years old, SOFIA ISELLA has emerged as one of the leading social critics of her generation within the music industry. Her raw, disconcerting, and energetic music blends elements of industrial electronic music with Sofia’s powerful vocals. Her background as a classically trained musician, immerses listeners in a unique musical experience and “Us and Pigs” highlights that. Drawing inspiration from her personal observations of the world, alongside her fascination with dark and at times horrific imagery. Her lyrics challenge societal issues like sexism and internet addiction, while picturing a future for those who have historically been marginalized from mainstream narratives.

When talking about “Us and Pigs” Sofia said it was “Different every time. I chuck some stuff around. Rip the walls off. Shatter the windows. Claw my face off. Usual stuff, I won’t bore you with the details. I like my words, usually, I love starting with them and building the rest of that or starting with production and top lining. But even when I do that, I can also pull words I previously wrote and insert them in. ‘Us and Pigs’ started that way for instance. I was bored free writing by a poolside and out of nowhere I started a new paragraph and wrote the concept for the second verse “Pump us full of [redacted], put us in a barn. /Us and pigs on a Mississippi farm.” I reread it, scared myself, and put the phone down. Later on, I was at the piano and I pulled the words from that free write and inserted it into the little waltz I was playing on the piano.”

"Us and Pigs" - SOFIA ISELLA (Official Lyric Video)

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Raven” – Tamino

Tamino released his new album “Every Dawn’s a Mountain” on March 21, 2025. “Raven” is an absolute masterpiece. Combining orchestral, gargantuan vocals, and middle eastern elements makes Tamino’s music so perfect. The song is also clearly inspired by Edgar Allen Poe’s poem “The Raven.” Especially the lyric, “My only, guiding me nevermore.”

If you love Radiohead, which you all know I do, you must listen to “Every Dawn’s a Mountain” by Tamino! It comes pretty darn close and that is very difficult thing to do! Just ask Muse…

"Raven" - Tamino (Official Audio)

 
 

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

 Back to Top

SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: April 5 - 13, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

HURRY! CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR TICKETS FOR THIS WEEK'S THEATRE PERFORMANCE BEFORE THEY ARE SOLD-OUT!!

〰️〰️

HURRY! CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR TICKETS FOR THIS WEEK'S THEATRE PERFORMANCE BEFORE THEY ARE SOLD-OUT!! 〰️〰️

MONDAY, APRIL 7

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

    • Internship Training - 7th with Mr. Connelly

    • Coyotes Care - Spring garden planning and prep during 7th period

  • Theatre Dinner starting at 4:45 pm (sign up to help)

  • Theatre Dress Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 4:00 pm - 8:30 pm

TUESDAY, april 8

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Parent Appreciation Relaxation Yoga #3 from 2:15 pm - 3:15 pm (info)

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Art Club with Ms. Albert from 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm

  • Theatre Dinner starting at 4:45 pm (sign up to help)

  • Northern Virginia Regional College Fair at GMU from 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm (info)

  • Spring Theatre Performance at 7:00 pm (info & tickets)
    ***Out of the Loop: Four One Act Plays***

THURSDAY, APRIL 10

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Coyote Cafe Lunch in Kids Kitchen (info) Now on Thursdays!

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Cancelled - History in Movies with Mr. Goldie (HIM will return after Spring Break)

  • Theatre Dinner starting at 4:45 pm (sign up to help)

  • Spring Theatre Performance - at 7:00 pm (info & tickets)
    ***Out of the Loop: Four One Act Plays***

FRIDAY, APRIL 11

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

    • Coyotes Care - Spring garden planning and prep during 7th period

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

    GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

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Out of the Loop - Four One Act Plays…

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Did you ever get the feeling that everyone else knows something that you don’t? Or that something is going-on but you don’t know what it is? This GWCS evening of one acts is all about this phenomenon. Come and watch as George tries to wake up, as Marcus tries to order a burger, as Allan tries to understand his coworker, and Peter tries to avoid being dumped! They are all trapped in dire situations without any clues and without any help. They are struggling to get things under control and they only have a ‘one act’ of time to figure it out!

The GWCS Players invite you to an evening of both laughter and tears! Which night will you be joining us? Limited seating is available, so reserve your tickets today and bring someone to share the experience!

reserve your seats then pay for your tickets…
it’s a Two Step Process:

STEP #1 - CLICK TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT(S)
STEP #2 - CLICK TO PAY BY CREDIT CARD

Tickets will be sent home once payment has been made. 

  1. You have 24 hours (not including weekends) to make payment (by credit card, cash, or check) after reserving seats. Reserved seats that are not paid for within 24 hours will be deleted and the seat(s) will be made available to others!

  2. Step#2 - paying by credit card is optional! You may opt to pay by cash or check. Make check payable to GWCS. Include date and seat number(s) on check memo line.

  3. Changes? If you need to change your seat or your date - contact Mrs. Sinichko for assistance.

TWO PERFORMANCE NIGHTS:

  • Wednesday, April 9, 2025
    7:00 pm / $15 per ticket

  • Thursday, April 10, 2025
    7:00 pm / $15 per ticket

Out of the Loop
Four One Act Plays:

  • The Actor’s Nightmare by Christopher Durang

  • The Philadelphia by David Ives

  • Training Tanya by EP Mayes

  • Surprise by Mark Harvey Levine

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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Theatre Families—Feed Our Thespians!

April 7 & 8 (Dress Rehearsals)
and april 9 & 10 (performance nights)

Theatre students have been known to resort to raiding the trash cans for snacks!

The GWCS theatre kids have been working tirelessly to bring Out of the Loop to life, and next week is SHOW WEEK! If you're a returning parent, you know the drill—our performers need fuel before they hit the stage!

At 4:30 PM each night, we need dinner for 13 hungry actors and one starving artist director. With a big cast, we’re hoping parents can team up to share the load. We have some vegetarians and one vegan, so past crowd-pleasers have included spaghetti dinners, a baked potato bar, taco bar, and sliders. The goal? A delicious, nutritious, and hearty meal to power them through performances.

Let's make sure their focus stays on their lines and not on the rumbling in their stomachs. Thank you in advance for signing up to help feed the crew!

CLICK HERE TO HELP FEED OUR ACTORS!

R.E.A.L. Term Spring Co-Ops: Let’s Do This!

It’s Official: All participating juniors and seniors are locked into their 2025 Spring R.E.A.L. Term Co-Ops! Time to make your mark!

Inbox Check: Mrs. Dwyer has sent out important internship forms. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Liability Form: Complete and give this to your supervisor.

  • Authorization Form: Complete and email this to Mrs. Dwyer at dwyerk@gwcommunityschool.com.

  • Both forms are due by Friday, April 4th

Still waiting to connect with your supervisor? Mrs. Dwyer’s introduction emails are out! If you haven’t seen it, double-check your spam or junk folder.

Questions? Missing an email? No sweat!

Reach out to Mrs. Dwyer at dwyerk@gwcommunityschool.com

We found the opportunity — now you go make the most of it! Show us what you’ve got!

Click Here to View GWCS Co-Op Info Sheet

OBX #1 - Experiential Education Begins…

Every Tuesday during 4th Quarter

PERMISSION FORM DUE MONDAY, APRIL 7, 2025

OBX #1 | April 8 | Smithsonian Museum of Natural History

OBX APRIL PERMISSION FORM - DUE mONDAY 4/7

Destination: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Get ready for an unforgettable journey into the wonders of the natural world on our field trip to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.! Students will dive into a world of science and discovery, exploring exhibits on everything from ancient fossils and gems to the mysteries of the deep ocean and the complexities of ecosystems. This intellectually stimulating experience offers a chance to engage with cutting-edge scientific research, sparking curiosity and deepening our understanding of the planet’s natural history. It’s a day full of exploration, learning, and inspiration! 

About: 

  • Meet at GWCS: 9:00 am (Go directly to school - NO GYM)

  • Pickup at GWCS: 3:15 pm

  • Bring/Wear: Casual Attire, Good walking shoes - No bags larger than 17 x 26 inches 

  • Lunch: Students should bring cash for the pavilion cafe ($20-$25)

  • Transportation: School Van & Cars to the Metro

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Tim Connelly
connellytp@gwcommunityschool.com

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Parent Appreciation Relaxation Yoga #3

The Third Time is a Charm!

Don’t miss out on our third session of Parent Appreciation Relaxation Yoga with Gaurav — space is limited! First come, first served. Click the button below and sign up today!

 
click here to sign up for relaxation yoga session #3
 
 
 

The Northern Virginia Regional College Fair…

Wednesday, April 9, 2025

ATTENTION JUNIORS & SENIORS!

The Office of Admissions at George Mason University invites students to attend one of the largest college fairs in the region! NVRCF will take place on Wednesday, April 9 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at EagleBank Arena on our Fairfax Campus.

Each year, this fair connects more than 1,500 students with representatives from over 200 colleges and universities across the country. It's a fantastic opportunity to inspire your students about their post-secondary options while providing them with valuable tools and resources to navigate the college search and application process.

Make the Most of the Experience

While registration is not required, it is highly recommend that students sign up with StriveScan to enhance their experience. With StriveScan, students can:

  • Instantly share information with schools of interest

  • View, sort, and filter through the list of attending schools

  • Favorite the schools you don't want to miss

  • Plan your evening in advance!

A complete list of participating colleges and table locations will be available closer to the event. Click here for the latest updates.

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Spring PSAT & SAT Day:
OPT-IN or OPT-OUT Today!

attention all GWCS students!

 
 

What You Need to Know:

  • All GWCS 8th, 9th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 8/9 Exam

  • All GWCS 10th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 10 Exam

  • All 11th and 12th graders have the option to take the SAT Exam

ALL STUDENTS should opt-in or opt-out of the spring SAT/PSATs by clicking the button below.

GWCS uses the results of the PSAT for underclassmen to identify students' academic strengths and weaknesses, and then uses this data to strengthen the GWCS curriculum.

CLICK HERE TO OPT-IN OR OPT-OUT OF PSAT/SAT EXAM

What if you’re NOT scheduled to take an exam? Stay tuned for more details about test-day as we get closer to April. GWCS covers the cost this year.

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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Questions? Contact:

Mrs. Kohler
kohlerja@gwcommunityschool.com

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Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Black Hole In My Mind” – The Lillingtons

I’ve had a fear of outer space until recently. After learning about black holes in Mr. Howarth’s class, the fear is gone and now I am fascinated by it! So, the title of this song feels very fitting.

The Lillingtons are one of the lesser-known rock bands from the 90s but still of the essence of bands like Green Day, Blink-182, and so on. Their music is catchy, hook-heavy punk rock 'n' roll since 1996. The Lillingtons have put out four albums but “Death By Television” is a masterpiece. “Black Hole In My Mind” is definitely the album’s centerpiece.

“Black Hole In My Mind” – The Lillingtons (Official Audio)

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Out In The Cold” – Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

Recommended by:
Mr. Lindner

In the early 90s, as rise of grunge was starting, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers were playing mellow, but still exciting, guitar fueled songs. Not to say the Tom Petty is “grunge.” Rather, a father of the alternative movement to come.

“Out In The Cold” is such a classic, it is interested that Petty was annoyed by the song. “’Out in the Cold’ was never something that I was particularly knocked out with. It was fun, but I was always annoyed that two songs got played all the time on the radio in LA, [“Out in the Cold” and “Making Some Noise,”] which I thought were the lesser songs of the album.”

Even though Tom Petty wasn’t a fan of the song, that doesn’t mean it is any less good, or less iconic, of a song. It is definitely worthy of a listen if you haven’t heard it before.

“Out In The Cold” – Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers (Official Audio)

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Been So Long” – Durand Jones & The Indications, Aaron Frazer

“Been So Long” has an old-school jazz vibe that will remind you of the great jazz and R&B artists of the past. The song was released March 19, 2025. The composition on the song is so well done. The calm, splendid vocals blend perfectly with the song.  

It’s got such a cool 70’s vibe.  You can’t help but sway or nod your head when it’s on. If you enjoy “Been So Long,” they are set to release their new album “Flowers” on June 27, 2025.

“Been So Long” – Durand Jones & The Indications, Aaron Frazer (Official Music Video)

 
 

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

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SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: March 29 - April 6, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

monday, MARCH 31

  • No School - Eid al-Fitr

TUESDAY, april 1

  • No School: Student Holiday / Teacher Workday (No Foolin’!)

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

    • Beads with Ms. Strats! (info)

  • Art Club with Ms. Albert from 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

THURSDAY, APRIL 3

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • OBX Training during 7th period

  • Relaxation Yoga #2 for parents at GWCS from 2:15 pm - 3:15 pm (info)

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

  • CANCELED: History in Movies with Mr. Goldie from 3:20 pm - 5:30 pm

FRIDAY, APRIL 4

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

    • Internship Training - 7th period with Mr. Connelly

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

    GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

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Beads with Ms. Strats…

Amazing Wednesday Bonus APRIL 2

Back by popular demand! Get creative, learn new techniques, and design your own beautiful beadwork pieces. Don’t miss this hands-on, fun-filled experience—come ready to craft and be inspired.

Wednesday, April 2nd Amazing Day Bonus Option during 7th period.

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Relaxation Yoga #2 - Yes Please!

We had an amazing session with Gaurav for Parent Appreciation Yoga last week! One parent shared:

"He was great because it wasn’t too complicated but still a good challenge. Whether you were brand new to yoga or had been doing it for years, there was something for everyone."

Don’t miss out on the next session—space is limited! First come, first served. Click the button below and sign up today! Space is limited!

 
 
Click Here to Sign Up - Space is limited!

Out of the Loop - Four One Act Plays…

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Did you ever get the feeling that everyone else knows something that you don’t? Or that something is going-on but you don’t know what it is? This GWCS evening of one acts is all about this phenomenon. Come and watch as George tries to wake up, as Marcus tries to order a burger, as Allan tries to understand his coworker, and Peter tries to avoid being dumped! They are all trapped in dire situations without any clues and without any help. They are struggling to get things under control and they only have a ‘one act’ of time to figure it out!

The GWCS Players invite you to an evening of both laughter and tears! Which night will you be joining us? Limited seating is available, so reserve your tickets today and bring someone to share the experience!

reserve your seats then pay for your tickets…
it’s a Two Step Process:

STEP #1 - CLICK TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT(S)
STEP #2 - CLICK TO PAY BY CREDIT CARD

Tickets will be sent home once payment has been made. 

  1. You have 24 hours (not including weekends) to make payment (by credit card, cash, or check) after reserving seats. Reserved seats that are not paid for within 24 hours will be deleted and the seat(s) will be made available to others!

  2. Step#2 - paying by credit card is optional! You may opt to pay by cash or check. Make check payable to GWCS. Include date and seat number(s) on check memo line.

  3. Changes? If you need to change your seat or your date - contact Mrs. Sinichko for assistance.

TWO PERFORMANCE NIGHTS:

  • Wednesday, April 9, 2025
    7:00 pm / $15 per ticket

  • Thursday, April 10, 2025
    7:00 pm / $15 per ticket

Out of the Loop
Four One Act Plays:

  • The Actor’s Nightmare by Christopher Durang

  • The Philadelphia by David Ives

  • Training Tanya by EP Mayes

  • Surprise by Mark Harvey Levine

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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Enroll Today for 2025-2026 School Year…

contract & registration fee Due: March 28, 2025

Hello GWCS Families (Grades 7-11),

Your re-enrollment packet for the 2025-2026 school year should have landed in your mailbox by now. Although September may seem far away, the GWCS staff began planning for the next school year months ago. For your convenience, the same documents that were mailed are linked below.

If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Goldie at goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com.

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Internship Placement Status: Help Us Cross the Finish Line!

Do you have a contact YOU CAN share with us?

We’re continuing to make great progress placing students with local businesses and organizations for our 4th quarter R.E.A.L. Term Co-Op Internships. This week, we’re especially looking for connections in a few specific fields: funeral services, legal, photography, and recording studios. If you know of any professionals in these areas who might be open to mentoring a student, please send their contact info to Kim Dwyer at dwyerk@gwcommunityschool.com — we’d be so grateful!

We’re in the final stretch and the finish line is in sight — we could use a few helping hands to get all of our students across. Thanks for being part of the team!

Click Here to View GWCS Co-Op Info Sheet

The Northern Virginia Regional College Fair…

Wednesday, April 9, 2025

it’s never too soon to go to a college fair!

The Office of Admissions at George Mason University invites students to attend one of the largest college fairs in the region! NVRCF will take place on Wednesday, April 9 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at EagleBank Arena on our Fairfax Campus.

Each year, this fair connects more than 1,500 students with representatives from over 200 colleges and universities across the country. It's a fantastic opportunity to inspire your students about their post-secondary options while providing them with valuable tools and resources to navigate the college search and application process.

Make the Most of the Experience

While registration is not required, it is highly recommend that students sign up with StriveScan to enhance their experience. With StriveScan, students can:

  • Instantly share information with schools of interest

  • View, sort, and filter through the list of attending schools

  • Favorite the schools you don't want to miss

  • Plan your evening in advance!

A complete list of participating colleges and table locations will be available closer to the event. Click here for the latest updates.

Back to Top

Spring PSAT & SAT Update…

ATTENTION NEW FAMILIES!

 
 

What You Need to Know:

  • All GWCS 8th, 9th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 8/9 Exam

  • All GWCS 10th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 10 Exam

  • All 11th and 12th graders have the option to take the SAT Exam

ALL STUDENTS should opt-in or opt-out of the spring SAT/PSATs by clicking the button below.

GWCS uses the results of the PSAT for underclassmen to identify students' academic strengths and weaknesses, and then uses this data to strengthen the GWCS curriculum.

CLICK HERE TO OPT-IN OR OPT-OUT OF PSAT/SAT EXAM

What if you’re NOT scheduled to take an exam? Stay tuned for more details about test-day as we get closer to April. GWCS covers the cost this year.

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

 Back to Top

SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: March 22 - 30, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

monday, MARCH 24

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Coyotes Care - 7th period in Ms. Warden’s classroom

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

TUESDAY, MARCH 25

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Coyote Cafe every Tuesday during lunch in the Kids Kitchen! (info)

  • Parent Appreciation Relaxation Yoga at GWCS from 2:15 pm - 3:15 pm (info)

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • SCHEDULE CHANGE: Art Club with Ms. Albert from 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm is on Tuesday this week - NOT Wednesday! (info)

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

WEDNESDAY, march 26

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

THURSDAY, march 27

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Mad Science Assembly from 10:30 am - 11:30 am (info)

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies with Mr. Goldie from 3:20 pm - 5:30 pm

FRIDAY, march 28

  • LAST DAY OF 3rd QUARTER! Wow - time really does fly!

  • DUE: Contract & Registration Fee for 2025-2026 School Year Enrollment (info)

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Coyotes Care - 7th period in Ms. Warden’s classroom

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

    GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

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A Few Spaces Left - Parent Appreciation Event…

Relaxation Yoga with GauraV at gwcs!

sign up by clicking on button below - SPACE IS LIMITED!

 
 
Space is Limited - Click Here to Sign up for Relaxation Yoga @ GWCS!

Relaxation Yoga will be at GWCS on March 25th
With Instructor Gaurav Singh (Yogi G)
From Going Yogue in Oakton, VA

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All School Assembly…

Questions? Contact:

Mrs. Kohler
kohlerja@gwcommunityschool.com

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Art Club Mural Update & Schedule Change…

 
 

Change in schedulE: ART CLUB WILL paint TUESDAY 3/25 instead of Wednesday 3/28.

if anyone has 3D prints, please bring them in! :)

Rachel Albert
Art Club Teacher

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Enroll Today for 2025-2026 School Year…

contract & registration fee Due: March 28, 2025

Hello GWCS Families (Grades 7-11),

Your re-enrollment packet for the 2025-2026 school year should have landed in your mailbox by now. Although September may seem far away, the GWCS staff began planning for the next school year months ago. For your convenience, the same documents that were mailed are linked below.

If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Goldie at goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com.

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Internship Placements in Progress!

We are making great progress in placing students with local businesses and organizations for our 4th quarter R.E.A.L. Term Co-Op Internships. So far, we have secured opportunities for 10 students, and we continue to work on additional placements. Please keep an eye on your email for important documents, including details on your student's internship placement and required release forms. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Kim Dwyer at dwyerk@gwcommunityschool.com

As they say, internships are like free samples at the grocery store—you get a little taste of the real world before committing to the full meal! We’re excited for our students to dig in.

Click Here to View GWCS Co-Op Info Sheet

Save CERT…

LETTER WRITING CAMPAIGN & PETITION

GWCS DEADLINE: April 11, 2025

What Can We Do?

The CERT program has created a letter-writing program, along with a petition and a few other actions in an effort to save the program. The sooner the better, for time is limited. Also, the sooner more letters, emails, and signatures are sent in for keeping CERT, the better. If you choose to write a letter or send an email, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE keep it polite and professional. Fairfax County CERT is a program that is respected state and nation-wide. If you are unsure, feel free to send questions and concerns through Naomi Willis or Ms. Warden. If you are worried, there are templates that you can use, but please take out the formatting and structure additions before sending to the Board of Supervisors. Click Here for more details about GWCS’ involvement in CERT included in previous WYNK.

To learn more, visit: https://fairfaxcountycert.org/save-cert/

Due to GWCS starting Spring Break on April 14th we are asking that all letters be sent and petition signed by Friday, April 11, 2025.

Thank You!

Naomi Willis
GWCS Student
naomiw@gwcommunityschool.com

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Hi Everyone,

This year our annual GWCS Foundation fundraiser will celebrate *25 YEARS* of GW Community School!  We'll get started on Wednesday, April 23rd, so keep an eye on the WYNK and your email around that time.

If you don't want to wait, we gratefully accept tax-deductible donations at any time at gwcsfoundation.org/donate. 

As a reminder, The GW Community School Foundation is a philanthropic 501(c)(3) organization formed in 2014 by a group of committed parents. The Foundation continues today with a focused goal of providing financial support for programs, activities and events that enhance and enrich the students’ community and educational experience at GWCS.  

We welcome your support through the GW Community School Foundation.  To learn more, please go to gwcsfoundation.org. 

Thanks very much,

Andrea Spiegel
GWCS Foundation Fundraising & Communications Chair

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Spring PSAT & SAT Update…

ATTENTION NEW FAMILIES!

 
 

What You Need to Know:

  • All GWCS 8th, 9th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 8/9 Exam

  • All GWCS 10th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 10 Exam

  • All 11th and 12th graders have the option to take the SAT Exam

ALL STUDENTS should opt-in or opt-out of the spring SAT/PSATs by clicking the button below.

GWCS uses the results of the PSAT for underclassmen to identify students' academic strengths and weaknesses, and then uses this data to strengthen the GWCS curriculum.

CLICK HERE TO OPT-IN OR OPT-OUT OF PSAT/SAT EXAM

What if you’re NOT scheduled to take an exam? Stay tuned for more details about test-day as we get closer to April. GWCS covers the cost this year.

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

Back to Top

Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Electric Relaxation” – A Tribe Called Quest

In the realm of hip-hop, few groups have achieved the level of acclaim and influence as A Tribe Called Quest. They emerged as pioneers during the golden age of hip-hop in the 1990s. Off their iconic album “Midnight Marauders,” “Electric Relaxation” remains a timeless masterpiece of the Tribe’s unique style and musical vision. To be honest, anything featuring Q-Tip makes a song better.

“Electric Relaxation” often interpreted as an ode to city girls and a celebration of youthful experiences. What makes this song so remarkable is that it accomplishes the rare feature of being sensual without being vulgar.

“Electric Relaxation” – A Tribe Called Quest (Official Music Video)

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Ridiculous Mess” – Patrice Pike

Recommended by:
Suzanne Parisi

Over the years, Patrice Pike has performed onstage with many artists including Dave Matthews, Sarah McLachlan, Natalie Merchant, Blues Traveler, Allman Brothers, and the Indigo Girls as well as opening sets for the late, great Ray Charles, Cake, Soul Asylum, Cheap Trick, The Neville Brothers and more. Yet, I don’t think Patrice Pike is very well known.
“Ridiculous Mess” shows off her phenomenal, twangy vocals. As the guitar sets the mood of the song, the steady drumbeat complements the song. Patrice Pike is a hidden gem from the early 2000’s rock scene.

“Ridiculous Mess” – Patrice Pike (Official Audio)

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Somebody Else’s” – Gwen Stefani

Gwen Stefani released her fifth solo album “Bouquet” on November 15, 2024, and released “Bouquet (Deluxe)” on March 14, 2025. “Somebody Else’s,” is a bubbly yet bitter song about Stefani’s ex. She’s moved on, she’s happy, and she’s better off. But before she goes, Stefani makes clear that her old problem is for someone else to solve. “Somebody Else’s” was an idea sent in a text message to Stefani from her co-writer, Madison Love. “What I kind of realized was, after writing the rest of the songs [on “Bouquet”], it felt like you needed to see a little bit of the dark to see the light and see where I’d just come from originally,” Stefani told Rolling Stone. “Now that you’re dead to me. /I feel so alive. /And you’re not mine.”

Gwen Stefani’s fans might speculate that the song is directed toward Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale. “I don’t know what a woman like me. /Was doing with a man like you.” Also, “Somebody Else’s” echoes No Doubt’s hit “Don’t Speak,” a breakup song about Stefani’s relationship with her bandmate, bassist Tony Kanal.

“Somebody Else’s” – Gwen Stefani (Official Music Video)

 
 
 
 

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

 Back to Top

SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: March 15 - 23, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

SATURDAY, MARCH 15

  • Event Night Pick-Up at GWCS at 8:00 am

monday, MARCH 17

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Coyotes Care - 7th period in Ms. Warden’s classroom

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

TUESDAY, MARCH 18

  • NYC Broadway-or-Bust - Trip with Mr. Goldie departs Union Station at 7:30 am

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Coyote Cafe every Tuesday in the Kids Kitchen! (info)

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal - Cancelled

WEDNESDAY, march 19

  • NYC Broadway-or-Bust - Trip with Mr. Goldie - Day Two

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Art Club with Ms Albert from 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal - Cancelled

THURSDAY, march 20

  • NYC Broadway-or-Bust - Trip with Mr. Goldie returns to Union Station at 3:10 pm

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • CANCELLED THIS WEEK - History in Movies with Mr. Goldie

FRIDAY, march 21

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Coyotes Care - 7th period in Ms. Warden’s classroom

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

    GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

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All School Assembly…

Questions? Contact:

Mrs. Kohler
kohlerja@gwcommunityschool.com

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Enroll Today for 2025-2026 School Year…

contract & registration fee Due: March 28, 2025

Hello GWCS Families (Grades 7-11),

Your re-enrollment packet for the 2025-2026 school year should have landed in your mailbox by now. Although September may seem far away, the GWCS staff began planning for the next school year months ago. For your convenience, the same documents that were mailed are linked below.

If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Goldie at goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com.

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Parent Appreciation Event…

Relaxation Yoga with GauraV at gwcs!

sign up by clicking on button below

 
 
Space is Limited - Click Here to Sign up for Relaxation Yoga @ GWCS!

Relaxation Yoga will be at GWCS on March 25th
With Instructor Gaurav Singh (Yogi G)
From Going Yogue in Oakton, VA

Save CERT…

LETTER WRITING CAMPAIGN & PETITION

GWCS DEADLINE: April 11, 2025

Fairfax County CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), a program that many GWCS students have participated in since 2014, is currently facing permanent budget cuts by the county and risks being removed from existence. I know that there are people who didn’t really like CERT, and wouldn’t complain if it vanished (or don’t even live in Fairfax), but the program is vital to Fairfax County and its residents. It keeps the public safe through traffic and crowd management at large events, festivals, and Fire and Rescue Department graduations.

The Fairfax Board of Supervisors is considering this because they are facing a challenging budget, and despite them making cuts every year, this year will be rather tough. On top of that, they are trying to find ways to lower the tax burden on homeowners, and are considering a few other options. I would like to say that even though they are considering this, they are juggling a lot of options here, and they are trying to do the best for the county. They are less focused on political party divisions, and more of what will bring the most benefit to Fairfax County and its residents. This means that if they are shown that people care, they will listen.

What Can We Do?

To combat this, the CERT program has created a letter-writing program, along with a petition and a few other actions in an effort to save the program. The sooner the better, for time is limited. Also, the sooner more letters, emails, and signatures are sent in for keeping CERT, the better. But, if you choose to write a letter or send an email, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE keep it polite and professional. Fairfax County CERT is a program that is respected state and nation-wide. If you are unsure, feel free to send questions and concerns through Naomi Willis or Ms. Warden. If you are worried, there are templates that you can use, but please take out the formatting and structure additions before sending to the Board of Supervisors.

To learn more, visit: https://fairfaxcountycert.org/save-cert/

Due to GWCS starting Spring Break on April 14th we are asking that all letters be sent and petition signed by Friday, April 11, 2025.

Thank You!

Naomi Willis
GWCS Student
naomiw@gwcommunityschool.com

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Hi Everyone,

This year our annual GWCS Foundation fundraiser will celebrate *25 YEARS* of GW Community School!  We'll get started on Wednesday, April 23rd, so keep an eye on the WYNK and your email around that time.

If you don't want to wait, we gratefully accept tax-deductible donations at any time at gwcsfoundation.org/donate. 

As a reminder, The GW Community School Foundation is a philanthropic 501(c)(3) organization formed in 2014 by a group of committed parents. The Foundation continues today with a focused goal of providing financial support for programs, activities and events that enhance and enrich the students’ community and educational experience at GWCS.  

We welcome your support through the GW Community School Foundation.  To learn more, please go to gwcsfoundation.org. 

Thanks very much,

Andrea Spiegel
GWCS Foundation Fundraising & Communications Chair

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Spring PSAT & SAT Update…

ATTENTION NEW FAMILIES!

 
 

What You Need to Know:

  • All GWCS 8th, 9th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 8/9 Exam

  • All GWCS 10th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 10 Exam

  • All 11th and 12th graders have the option to take the SAT Exam

ALL STUDENTS should opt-in or opt-out of the spring SAT/PSATs by clicking the button below.

GWCS uses the results of the PSAT for underclassmen to identify students' academic strengths and weaknesses, and then uses this data to strengthen the GWCS curriculum.

CLICK HERE TO OPT-IN OR OPT-OUT OF PSAT/SAT EXAM

What if you’re NOT scheduled to take an exam? Stay tuned for more details about test-day as we get closer to April. GWCS covers the cost this year.

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“He Could Never Love You” – Henry Morris

Henry Morris is easily my favorite new artist. He makes indie-bedroom-pop. The kind of music that you can listen to whether you are giddy with love or crying in the dark because your significant other won’t respond to you. Oddly specific I know. I have his first, and so far only, album “Jawbreaker” on constant repeat. There are zero skips on this album. It was SO hard to choose a song, but I chose “He Could Never Love You.” To me, it is the centerpiece of the album. It is the perfect love song that you can just melt into. His romantic, yearning vocals suck you into a wonderful feeling. It’s as if he is saying the things, you didn’t know you wanted to hear. “He could never love you but, baby, I, baby, I can.” On top of that, his soft and smooth guitar has lots of reverb making it feel even more dream-like. ” – Hole

https://youtu.be/lX0Csg-y4-c?si=Z_ORg0HtSQ1UXJDM 

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Scarlet Begonias” – Grateful Dead

Recommended by
Mr. Mallonee

“Scarlet Begonias” is a lively, heavily requested, upbeat song. Recorded on June 27, 1974, on a LP, the song tells a story of strolling through the area near the US Embassy in London. The narrator of the song notices a gorgeous female and finds himself drawn to her. “Well, there ain't nothing wrong with the way she moves. /Or scarlet begonias or a touch of the blues. /And there's nothing wrong with the look that's in her eyes.” The lovely surf-rock guitar ties the song together. The conclusion in “Scarlet Begonias” is unclear, and the order of events is somewhat ambiguous. Nevertheless, it remains a definite favorite song.

https://youtu.be/xt4XAz2WZ3Y?si=2HiKhmiBGxUZOkjf

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Aon” – Maruja

This progressive jazz band made my jaw drop the first time I heard “Aon.” I don’t think I’ve ever heard anything like it before.

Maruja released their third and final EP “Tír na nÓg,” Irish for “The Land of Youth,” on February 21, 2025. “It is a fully improvised piece recorded live on 12th September 2024 at the New Adelphi Recording Studios in Salford University.” Maruja said. “Aon,” a long with the rest of “Tír na nÓg,”is so ethereal and different that it is definitely worth a listen.

https://youtu.be/aY8TOnRNZtY?si=3_jd8G5RcX_zorV7

 
 
 
 

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

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SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: March 8 - 16, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

monday, MARCH 10

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Co-Op Training with Kimberly Oesterreich &Deepa Nanjee during 7th period (info)

  • Coyotes Care - 7th period in Ms. Warden’s classroom (info)
    *Donate old socks and t-shirts - collection bin next to front desk*

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

TUESDAY, MARCH 11

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Coyote Cafe every Tuesday in the Kids Kitchen! (info)

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

WEDNESDAY, march 12

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Co-Op Training with Kimberly Oesterreich &Deepa Nanjee during 7th period (info)

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Art Club with Ms Albert from 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

THURSDAY, march 13

  • Event Night Payment Due - price goes up on Friday. (info)

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies with Mr. Goldie from 3:20 pm - 5:30 pm

FRIDAY, march 14

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Pi(e) Day - Bring a pie to share! Consuming will begin at lunch - 12:00 pm (info)

  • Co-Op Training with Kimberly Oesterreich &Deepa Nanjee during 7th period (info)

  • Coyotes Care - 7th period in Ms. Warden’s classroom (info)
    *Donate old socks and t-shirts - collection bin next to front desk*

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

  • EVENT NIGHT | The GWCS Annual Lock-In (info)

    • Half Night: 6:00 pm - 12:00 am

    • Full Night: 6:00 pm - 8:00 am

SATURDAY, march 15

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Pi(e) Day and Event Night...

The Ultimate Combination! 

Get ready to indulge in all things π (pi) on Thursday, March 14th! We’re inviting students and parents to bring their favorite pies—sweet or savory—to share as we celebrate math’s most delicious holiday!  

While classics like apple, pumpkin, and pecan are always welcome, why not try something new? Here are a few pies from around the world to inspire you:  

  • Pastel de Choclo (Chile) – A savory corn pie with ground beef, olives, and hard-boiled eggs.  

  • Spanakopita (Greece) – A crispy, flaky spinach and feta pie wrapped in phyllo dough.  

  • Meat Pie (Australia) – A hearty hand pie filled with minced meat and gravy.  

  • Kūmara Pie (New Zealand) – A pie made with sweet potato and warm spices.  

  • Yatsuhashi Pie (Japan) – A unique cinnamon-filled pastry inspired by Kyoto’s famous yatsuhashi sweets.    

Join us for a fun-filled Pi Day celebration with delicious pies, math games, and a slice of fun!  

We will enjoy our pies at lunch and during Amazing Days... and all through Pi Night - a.k.a. Event Night!

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Event Night is Coming - Are You Going?

  • FRi, MARCH 14 @ 6 pm

  • Half-night pick-up @ 12 am

  • full-night pick-up: sat, march 15 @ 8 am

What is Event Night? Event Night is where students and teachers spend the night at the school and do cool things like watch movies and play video games and sing songs and become extremely sleep deprived until everything is funny. 

Event Night has been a GWCS Tradition since 2004! We hope you will join us this year and contribute to this memory-making tradition. Photos below are from last year’s Event Night.

What’s Event Night? Read on. 

Q: Why is it called Event Night? 

A: In 2004, the Student Government Association wanted to have a Poker Night. However, it was pointed out that poker is gambling, and gambling is not good for children. So the SGA expanded the night to be about more than poker, which was a good thing. Then we played poker anyway. But we did other things too. No lives were lost (there was a ping-pong war, however), and a GWCS tradition was born! 

Q: Should I go to Event Night? 

A: Heck yeah you should go. We usually sell half-night and full-night tickets, so if you're wondering whether Event Night is for you, buy a half-night ticket (good up until midnight), and then you can decide. 

Q: What kind of movies get shown at Event Night? 

A: There's usually at least two movies going at any one time. There is a R-Rated room for terrifying and/or explody movies, and then a different, classic, non-R movie showing on the big screen in the cafe. They movie in the cafe is always a good movie. The movie in the r-rated room is sometimes good, and sometimes so bad it's funny. 

Q: What kinds of games get played at Event Night? 

A: A lot of video games get played on consoles/computers that people bring in. It's different every year but it's always fun multiplayer games. A lot of board games get played too. And Mr. Goldie usually has a running trivia contest throughout the night. 

Q: Will I have a good time? 

A: Let me look into my crystal ball. Yes. The crystal ball says you will have a good time, and the crystal ball never lies. 

and here’s the boring info:

Note 1 - Before Event Night: If it makes your life easier to just stay at school and wait for Event Night to begin - that's between you and your parents. Staff and students in charge of Event Night will be busy setting up and will not be supervising students who stay after school.

Note 2 - During Event Night: Students will not be allowed to come-and-go. This is a 'lock-down' event. If you need to arrive or leave at a time other than what's listed above - you will need to get special permission from Ms. N-O.

SIGN UP:

Limited space is available due to a strict student/teacher ratio. Reserve a spot on the exclusive Event Night attending list by turning in cash or a check (payable to GWCS) ASAP! Once you have paid your dues, you will be added to the exclusive list. Note: The price increases on Friday so pay by Thursday - this saves you $$ and helps us with planning and ordering!

  • $25 (6:00 pm - midnight) for those who pay by Thursday 3/13

  • $35 (6:00 pm - 8:00 am) for those who pay by Thursday 3/13

  • $30 (6:00 pm - midnight) for those who pay on Friday 3/14 (space permitting)

  • $40 (6:00 pm - 8:00 am) for those who pay on Friday 3/14 (space permitting)

FOOD:

Yes, there will be pizza, snacks, and drinks all night (including the infamous midnight ice cream social and 2 AM vegan tacos!)

BRING:

  • Movies

  • Snacks to share

  • Video games

  • Gaming system and controllers

  • Musical instrument

All optional...

  • Sleeping bag

  • Pajamas

  • Change of clothes

  • Toothbrush

Sky Zone = Fun Zone = Learning Zone…

Mrs. Kohler's Cognitive Capacities class took on Sky Zone last week in style - I mean check out those grip socks! The students exhibited all of our school values with every twist, turn, launch, and jump! 

  • Responsibility with getting waivers signed

  • Team Play during dodgeball and basketball showdowns 

  • Service for cheering Goldie on to take the plunge on the High Slide 

  • Excellence for Shayna beating (at first) Brenner on the Punch Machine 

  • Intellectual Curiosity for McKenzie trying to maneuver the Obstacle Course most efficiently 

  • Kindness for lending helping hands to rescue those stuck in the Foam Pit

  • Investment for Faiz bouncing longer than any other student 

  • Learning for Aung finding the name of the elusive Pugil Stick

Our courageous Coyotes had a blast!

Enroll Today for 2025-2026 School Year…

contract & registration fee Due: March 28, 2025

Hello GWCS Families (Grades 7-11),

Your re-enrollment packet for the 2025-2026 school year should have landed in your mailbox by now. Although September may seem far away, the GWCS staff began planning for the next school year months ago. For your convenience, the same documents that were mailed are linked below.

If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Goldie at goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com.

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R.E.A.L. Term Co-Op Updates…

Kim Dwyer, GWCS Alumni Parent & Co-Op Support

Just What We Needed!

A huge thank you to Kim Dwyer, parent to Jack (GWCS Class of 2020), for swooping in to support REAL TERM Co-ops 2025! Kim is meeting with students one-on-one to help define career interests, craft resumes, and secure quality co-op placements. She’s a fantastic addition to our dedicated parent volunteer team, who are already leading workshops, hosting events, and soon assisting with placements.

Look out, careers—here we come!


three Co-op Training sessions:

March 10, 12, & 14 during 7th period

Next Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, REAL TERM Co-op students will take part in a hands-on training experience. Through a real-world activity, interns will plan, execute, and reflect—all through the art of pancake making. Don’t ask… just trust the process!   

Request for electric skillets & spatulas.

A huge thank you to Kimberly Oesterreich and Deepa Nanjee for hosting this event. More details coming soon to your inbox (you do check that, right? 😉). Stay tuned!

***Can we please borrow your electric griddle and spatula for this activity? Please clearly label your griddle and spatula and drop them off in the kids' kitchen Monday morning. Thanks!!!***

 

R.E.A.L. Term Co-Ops will take place every Tuesday
April 8th through May 27th.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE GWCS CO-OP INFO SHEET

Questions? Contact:

Ms. Warden
wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com

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Coyotes Care About… SOCKS!

COLLECTING OLD SOCKS TO MAKE PULL TOYS FOR PUPS!

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES - mONDAYS & fRIDAYS

COYOTES gather:

WHEN? Every Monday & Friday
TIME: 7th period (2:22 pm)
LOCATION: Ms. Warden’s Classroom

COYOTES CARE ABOUT...SOCKS!

Thanks to all families who have sent in old T-shirts to help us make enrichment toys for the animals of Friends of Homeless Animals. Keep them coming! To add some variety for the pups, we're also making toys with socks and recycled water bottles. So if you have a washing machine that likes to eat socks and you have a bag of unmatched socks (we know you do!), we'd love to take them! We're looking for clean socks that are long enough to fit a water bottle and tie a knot (not no-show or ankle). Athletic or dress socks will work.  Look for a collection bin by the front desk in the café.

Questions? Suggestions? Contact:

Shannon Carroll
GWCS Parent Volunteer
#202-365-8617
carrollshannon@yahoo.com

Parent Appreciation Event…

Relaxation Yoga with GauraV at gwcs!

sign up by clicking on button below

 
 
Space is Limited - Click Here to Sign up for Relaxation Yoga @ GWCS!

Relaxation Yoga will be at GWCS on March 25th
With Instructor Gaurav Singh (Yogi G)
From Going Yogue in Oakton, VA

Hot Off the Palette!

The new mural in the main GWCS hallway is almost done and it is singin' a vibrant tune. And get this—we're talkin' more than just paint on the wall. They're dropping some serious 3D-printed riffs in there, adding a whole new dimension of texture. It's gonna be a feast for the eyes and the fingertips! Check out the photos below, art students are putting the final brush strokes on the mural and painting the 3D textured elements pieces to be added to the mural next week!

Let's give a round of applause that echoes through the school to Art Teacher and GWCS Parent, Rachel Albert!

Look Out, Rehoboth - Here We Come!

 
 

Note: Slight change from last week - new hotel.

Mrs. Kohler
kohlerja@gwcommunityschool.com

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Spring PSAT & SAT Update…

ATTENTION NEW FAMILIES!

 
 

What You Need to Know:

  • All GWCS 8th, 9th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 8/9 Exam

  • All GWCS 10th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 10 Exam

  • All 11th and 12th graders have the option to take the SAT Exam

ALL STUDENTS should opt-in or opt-out of the spring SAT/PSATs by clicking the button below.

GWCS uses the results of the PSAT for underclassmen to identify students' academic strengths and weaknesses, and then uses this data to strengthen the GWCS curriculum.

CLICK HERE TO OPT-IN OR OPT-OUT OF PSAT/SAT EXAM

What if you’re NOT scheduled to take an exam? Stay tuned for more details about test-day as we get closer to April. GWCS covers the cost this year.

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Violet” – Hole

Hole’s album “Live Through This” has been the anthem to my life. Courtney Love’s unapologetic, justified, female frustrations are so empowering to hear. “Doll Parts,” “Violet,” “Jennifer’s Body,” “Asking For It,” “Miss World,” just to name a few, mean more to me than you know. I chose “Violet” because it feels very relevant to the times we are going through. “Go one take everything. /Take everything. /I want you to.”

“Violet” was written about the Courtney’s relationship with Billy Corgan of The Smashing Pumpkins. The recurring issue, which unfortunately hasn’t lost its relevance, is the exploitation and (self-) degradation of women. “When they get what they want, /and they never want it again.” Courtney uses her negative feelings and turns them into empowerment when she uses romantic phrases just to reverse them the next second. “And the sky was all violet, /I want it again, but violent, more violent.” Her mix of powerful lyrics and distorted guitar will forever be a part of my life.

"Violet" – Hole (Official Music Video)

Fun fact: In the song “Asking For it” Kurt Cobain has uncredited vocals. He sings with Hole on the bridge during “And if you live through this with me, I swear that I would die for you.”

Here is a clearer version of Kurt Cobain’s vocals:  "Asking For It" – Hole, Kurt Cobain

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Wondering Why” – The Red Clay Strays

Recommended by Leahanna

“Wondering Why” was written in 2019. The Red Clay Strays guitar player, Drew Nix, and Brandon Coleman were in Nashville, and had a co-write set up with a man named Dan Couch. They wanted to go in and try to write a love song, and it took them three or four hours.  It showcases ‘The Red Clay Strays’ now-signature ability to beautifully build out a track from a sparse and virtually a cappella opening, before gradually introducing new elements as the song grows in sonic and emotional intensity.

This introduction outlines his sense of inferiority to their lover, with the stripped-down music echoing the insecurity and fragility of the lyrics. When Coleman then goes into the ways his partner makes him feel deeply loved, the bass and guitar are brought in as the protagonist revels in this unexpected romance.

He emphasizes that he thanks God each night for this blessing.  It serves as a continuation of the opening lyric about his lover's church-going nature.  Clearly, Coleman has been introduced to faith into his life since they got together.

Towards the end of ‘Wondering Why,” Brandon Coleman stretches his vocal range and brings in a range of raspiness, accentuating his fervent, stirring words of affection.

“Wondering Why” – The Red Clay Strays (Official Lyric Video)

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“I Need You” – Vundabar

Vundabar has their rise to fame with their hit song “Alien Blues” but are proving that they are way more than just a one-hit-wonder. “I Need You” was released as a part of a single along with three other songs from their upcoming album “Surgery and Pleasure” which will be released this Friday on March 7, 2025.

After the passing of the leader singer, Brandon Hagen’s, it significantly impacted the “Surgery and Pleasure.” This is especially so on “I Need You.” The song felt like a triumph and a perfect analogy for how the band dealt with their feelings at the time.  Thay have said that the event changed the way he made music from then on.

“I Need You” initially existed as a very sparse demo of vocals and a nylon string guitar. It was one of the last songs that they worked on. Writing the record with a new approach they learned recovering from the singer’s death felt to the band like a triumph and a perfect analogy for processing loss in mind, body and heart.

“I Need You” – Vundabar (Official Audio)

 
 
 
 

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

 Back to Top

SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: March 1 - 9, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

monday, MARCH 3

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Fairfax County Police Assembly with Officer May during 7th Period

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Coyotes Care - 7th period in Ms. Warden’s classroom (info)
    *Donate T-Shirts - collection bin next to front desk*

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

TUESDAY, MARCH 4

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Coyote Cafe every Tuesday in the Kids Kitchen! (info)

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

WEDNESDAY, march 5

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Art Club with Ms Albert from 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

THURSDAY, march 6

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies with Mr. Goldie from 3:20 pm - 5:30 pm

FRIDAY, march 7

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Coyotes Care - 7th period in Ms. Warden’s classroom (info)

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

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Ms. Warden’s Diggin…

… being a part of an amazing intellectually curious school community. Thanks to Chris Carbone for sharing the following article from Big Think website with me!

Great minds don’t think alike: The BUSINESS case for neurodiversity

https://bigthink.com/business/the-business-case-for-neurodiversity/

 

This book is referenced in the article linked above.

 

Enroll Today for 2025-2026 School Year…

contract & registration fee Due: March 28, 2025

Hello GWCS Families (Grades 7-11),

Your re-enrollment packet for the 2025-2026 school year should have landed in your mailbox by now. Although September may seem far away, the GWCS staff began planning for the next school year months ago. For your convenience, the same documents that were mailed are linked below.

If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Goldie at goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com.

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R.E.A.L. Term Co-Op Planning is Underway!

We’re thrilled to share that planning for this year’s R.E.A.L. Term Co-Op program is in full swing! A huge thank you to the parents who attended our kickoff coffee—we truly appreciate your support, guidance, and enthusiasm.

R.E.A.L. Term Co-Ops (Realistic Education and Authentic Learning) are a hallmark of GWCS. We launched the program in 2007 after recognizing that our vibrant extracurricular life often left students with limited time outside of school to explore the working world. Since then, our Co-Op program has helped launch incredible careers in fields ranging from mechanics to hospital administration—and everything in between!

Special thanks to Liz Strats for leading a resume-writing workshop to help students get started.

GWCS has built strong partnerships over the years, but we always welcome parent support. R.E.A.L. Term Co-Ops will take place on Tuesdays from April 8th through May 27th.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE GWCS CO-OP INFO SHEET

Stay tuned for more updates!

Questions? Contact:

Ms. Warden
wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com

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Coyotes Care About… PUPS!

COLLECTING OLD T-SHIRTS TO MAKE PULL TOYS!

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES - mONDAYS & fRIDAYS

COYOTES gather:

WHEN? Every Monday & Friday
TIME: 7th period (2:22 pm)
LOCATION: Ms. Warden’s Classroom

The first meeting of Coyotes Care was a great success! Students brought their coyote enthusiasm and brilliant ideas and identified a few community service projects to work on during the Spring semester. First on our list: making tug toys and treats for animal rescue organizations. So, we need your old T-shirts! As you switch out your sweaters for T’s and tanks, please consider donating your unwanted T-shirts to support our efforts! This will be an ongoing project, but we hope to start on Monday, March 3rd. A collection bin will be set up right by the front desk.  

Questions? Suggestions? Contact:

Shannon Carroll
GWCS Parent Volunteer
#202-365-8617
carrollshannon@yahoo.com

Look Out, Rehoboth - Here We Come!

The Flight of the Montgolfier Brothers’ First Hot Air Balloon (circa 1783) - Recreated…

Mr. Howarth’s History of Science class (Myat, Ryan, McKenzie, and Anna) recreated the flight of the Montgolfier Brother's first hot air balloon in 18th century Paris!  The balloon escaped the park and flew into the neighborhood!  Huzzah!

Click Here to learn more about the Montgolfier Brothers.

Photo & Video Cred: Anna K.

Mr. Howarth
howarthd@gwcommunityschool.com

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Spring PSAT & SAT Update…

 
 

What You Need to Know:

  • All GWCS 8th, 9th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 8/9 Exam

  • All GWCS 10th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 10 Exam

  • All 11th and 12th graders have the option to take the SAT Exam

ALL STUDENTS should opt-in or opt-out of the spring SAT/PSATs by clicking the button below.

GWCS uses the results of the PSAT for underclassmen to identify students' academic strengths and weaknesses, and then uses this data to strengthen the GWCS curriculum.

CLICK HERE TO OPT-IN OR OPT-OUT OF PSAT/SAT EXAM

What if you’re NOT scheduled to take an exam? Stay tuned for more details about test-day as we get closer to April. GWCS covers the cost this year.

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Sitt Ner (Lilla Jag)” – Nektar

I listen to a lot of Swedish music, but Nektar has instantly become one of my favorites. They sound like The Strokes and early Radiohead if they spoke Swedish. “Sitt Ner (Lilla Jag)” or “Sit Down (Little Me)” is the first track on their first, and so far only, album “Magnolia.” It was so hard for me to pick my favorite track from “Magnolia.” They were all SO GOOD! The upbeat drums mixed with distorted guitar all wrapped with a perfect melodic bow. The lyric are also so beautiful and deep. Translated, “Sorry if I'm going way too fast. /But I never got this far. /And sorry if what I said sounded gross. /But I have never felt this cramped. /And I sit down. /Because I can't stand.”

“Sitt Ner (Lilla Jag)” – Nektar (Official Audio)

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Killing Me Softly With His Song” – Roberta Flack

Recommended by Jocelyn Adamoli (Charlie’s mom)

After hearing the sad news that the beautiful, immensely talented Roberta Flack passed away this Monday, February 24, 2025, I thought it would be fitting to look back and appreciate all the good music she brought to the world.

Although “Killing Me Softly With His Song” is a cover from Lori Liebermann, Roberta Flack’s version is the most iconic. The song couldn't be sung more beautifully, with such anguish and yearning than when Roberta Flack did. Flack first heard “Killing Me Softly With His Song” on an airplane, and she said that the song “smacked me in the face.” The rest is history. Her soft, elegant, soul voice will haunt me with the words “Strumming my pain with his fingers, singing my life with his words. /Killing me softly with his song.”

“Killing Me Softly With His Song” – Roberta Flack (Official Music Video)

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“All Night” – Robo

This York-based band brings a familiar yet original indie-rock sound. “All Night” was released as a single on January 25, 2025. The way that they mix upbeat, jazzy drums and layered, dreamy and softly distorted guitar is so enjoyable. “All Night” transports you to an amazing dive bar feeling. Robo is definitely someone to keep on the radar. I know I will.  

“All Night” – Robo (Official Music Video)

 
 

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

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SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: Feb. 22 - Mar. 2, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

monday, FEB 24

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Coyotes Care Meeting during 7th period in Ms. Warden’s classroom (info)

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

TUESDAY, FEB 25

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Coyote Cafe every Tuesday in the Kids Kitchen! (info)

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

WEDNESDAY, feb 26

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Resume Writing Workshop for GWCS juniors and seniors with Liz Strats during 7th Period. We're excited for Co-Ops to begin!

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

  • Art Club with Ms Albert from 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm

THURSDAY, FEB 27

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Field Trip to Sky Zone - Ms. Kohler’s 3rd Period Cognitive Capacities & 4th Period Chemistry Classes from @ 10:15 am - 12:00 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies with Mr. Goldie from 3:20 pm - 5:30 pm

FRIDAY, FEB 28

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Coyotes Care - 7th period in Ms. Warden’s classroom (info)

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

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Coyotes Care…

NEW AMAZINg-DAY ACTIVITIES

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES - mONDAYS & fRIDAYS

Do you like bringing a smile to friends and neighbors? Do you like helping others in need (either the human or furry kind)? Are you involved in a community group that could use some extra hands? Or, do you just need to bank some hours to fulfill your community service requirement? Whatever motivates you, we hope you’ll join us for a new Amazing Day activity, Coyote Cares! Each week we’ll find ways to brighten up our campus as well as give back to the broader community. Projects may include a canned food or book drive, stream clean-up, prepping meal kits, working with an animal shelter, or……? So, bring your ideas and your caring coyote spirit!

Our first meeting:

DATE: Monday, February 24th
TIME: 7th period (2:22 pm)
LOCATION: Ms. Warden’s Classroom
Parents welcome!

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Spring PSAT & SAT Update…

 
 

What You Need to Know:

  • All GWCS 8th, 9th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 8/9 Exam

  • All GWCS 10th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 10 Exam

  • All 11th and 12th graders have the option to take the SAT Exam

ALL STUDENTS should opt-in or opt-out of the spring SAT/PSATs by clicking the button below.

GWCS uses the results of the PSAT for underclassmen to identify students' academic strengths and weaknesses, and then uses this data to strengthen the GWCS curriculum.

CLICK HERE TO OPT-IN OR OPT-OUT OF PSAT/SAT EXAM

What if you’re NOT scheduled to take an exam? Stay tuned for more details about test-day as we get closer to April. GWCS covers the cost this year.

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

Back to Top

Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Sabotage” (Explicit) – Beastie Boys

I can’t believe it has taken me this long to do the Beastie Boys! Their music has always been a huge part of my life. Whether I was bopping my head along to the songs as an infant or using as “Sabotage” my walk-up song in softball. I can never be in a bad mood while listening to the Beastie Boys. 

The Beastie Boys destroyed all stereotypes about rappers. Here they were white, Jewish boys from New York becoming some of the most popular rappers at the time. “Sabotage” one of their most popular, and personally one of my favorite, songs. The energetic mix with hyped up vocals makes “Sabotage” stand out. The Beastie Boys “…decided it would be funny to write a song about how Mario, [their producer], was holding us all down, how he was trying to mess it all up, sabotaging our great works of art,” Ad-Rock said.

I would also like to add that the “Sabotage” music video is, in my opinion, the best music video ever created. The Beastie Boys are dressed up in 70’s cop outfits with fake wigs and fake mustaches in a home-movie like video. I HIGHLY recommend that you watch it!

"Sabotage" - Beastie Boys (Official Music Video)

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Subterranean Homesick Blues” – Bob Dylan

Recommended by:
Mr. Howarth

Bob Dylan has been making a huge re-appearance ever since the movie “A Complete Unknown,” featuring Timothée Chalamet, came out.

Bob Dylan spent three days in New York in January 1965 recording songs for his fifth album “Bringing It All Back Home.” Dylan ruled the folk world at that moment, but at 23 years old felt increasingly frustrated and limned in by this niche. “Subterranean Homesick Blues” was knocked out in a single take. The song follows a bad state of the world where a kid is getting wrapped into substances. The lyrics are truly heartbreaking. “Look out, kid, it's somethin' you did. /God knows when, but you're doin' it again.”

In the music video Bob Dylan holds up postcards of the lyrics to the song. It’s a classic that has been often imitated.

“Subterranean Homesick Blues” – Bob Dylan (Official Music Video)

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Thorn” – Lana Death Ray

Not to be confused with America’s sweetheart Lana Del Ray. Rather, an underground indie band from Brighton, England. “Thorn” is the band’s first ever song released on January 29, 2025. The song starts off very shoegaze-y then transitions into a guitar heavy chorus. They have taken inspiration from bands like Radiohead, The Smashing Pumpkins, and Deftones which you can hear heavily in their music. Definitely keep Lana Death Ray on your radar if you like any of the bands listed as their inspiration!

"Thorn" - Lana Death Ray (Official Audio)

 
 

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

 Back to Top

SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: Feb. 15-23, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

monday, FEB 17

  • No School: Presidents’ Day

TUESDAY, FEB 18

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Coyote Cafe every Tuesday in the Kids Kitchen! (info)

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies has moved to Thursdays!

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

WEDNESDAY, feb 19

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Parent Volunteer Coffee & Co-Op Discussion with Ms. Warden at GWCS (info)

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

  • Art Club - is back with Ms Albert from 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm

THURSDAY, FEB 20

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • RESCHEDULED: Graduation Parent Volunteer Lunch Meeting from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (info)

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies with Mr. Goldie from 3:20 pm - 5:30 pm

FRIDAY, FEB 21

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Theatre Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

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Ms. Warden is Diggin’ Nick Names…

You know how you can’t pick your own nickname? Well, Aung has one for almost everyone. Some are easy to decipher like Lindner Express, Ricky G., or Uncle Tim. But others are more cryptic. Can you figure out who these are? Wikipedia, Book Fixer, Queen Puppy, Notification, King Tech, and Door Dash. Any guesses?

 
 

—————————————-

Every week in the WYNK a staff or faculty member shares something they are ‘diggin’! It may be a music artist, a museum, a hobby, a book, a tech tool, a current event, a recipe, a game, a fun fact… you name it - we dig it!

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GWCS Spring Theatre Rehearsals Begin…

TUESDAY, FEBRUAR 18TH!

With a few shifts here and there, Theatre Rehearsals will take place on Mon., Tue., Wed., and Fri. from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm beginning February 18th and continue through April 8th. If needed, Sunday rehearsals may be added. The performances will take place on April 9 & 10. The cast will receive more detailed info via email in the coming weeks or you can refer to the GWCS Calendar.

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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Parent Volunteer Coffee & Co-Op Discussion…

R.E.A.L. TERM Spring Co-Op 

Realistic Education & Authentic Learning

GWCS has been recognized for its extensive co-op program that gives each of our students the opportunity to gain work experience while getting perspective into potential college majors and career goals. Understanding what it takes to be a responsible employee also gives our students a leg up in preparing for college and beyond. Co-Op experience is obviously a big plus on college applications where schools increasingly look for real world experience beyond the classroom.  

We are looking for help in planning our 2025 Co-Ops. Join me for coffee and a perky Co-Op discussion next week.

  • DATE: Wednesday, February 19, 2025

  • TIME: 8:15 am - 9:15 am

  • LOCATION: GWCS Kid’s Kitchen

  • R.S.V.P.: By Monday, February 17, 2025

click here to sign-up so we know how many cups to brew

Warm Regards,

Alexa C. Warden
wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com

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Parent Volunteers Needed for Graduation…

RESCHEDULED — PLEASE SIGN UP AGAIN!

As many of you know, graduation at GWCS is an all-school celebration, and we rely heavily on non-senior parent volunteers to make this day truly special and memorable for our graduates.

1st Graduation Volunteer Meeting:

  • WHEN: Thursday, February 20 2025

  • TIME: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

  • LOCATION: Alexa’s Classroom

  • LUNCH PROVIDED: Catered Baked Potato Bar (available for those who sign up by Tuesday, Feb. 18)!

Spring PSAT & SAT Update…

 
 

What You Need to Know:

  • All GWCS 8th, 9th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 8/9 Exam

  • All GWCS 10th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 10 Exam

  • All 11th and 12th graders have the option to take the SAT Exam

ALL STUDENTS should opt-in or opt-out of the spring SAT/PSATs by clicking the button below.

GWCS uses the results of the PSAT for underclassmen to identify students' academic strengths and weaknesses, and then uses this data to strengthen the GWCS curriculum.

CLICK HERE TO OPT-IN OR OPT-OUT OF PSAT/SAT EXAM

What if you’re NOT scheduled to take an exam? Stay tuned for more details about test-day as we get closer to April. GWCS covers the cost this year.

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

Back to Top

Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Popular” (with Playboi Carti & Madonna) (Clean) – The Weeknd, Playboi Carti, Madonna

If you have seen me dancing and twirling around the school, this song is the reason why. I cannot tell you how many times I have listened to this song in the last 48 hours. Spoiler alert, it’s a lot. The song explores the theme of desperately wanting to be popular, echoing the plot of the series “The Idol.” This marks the first collaboration between the three artists, who are each known for their distinctively different music styles. Though this song may not be the most lyrically original, the beats make me want to dance 24/7.

“Popular (with Playboi Carti & Madonna)" (Clean)

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“See You Again” (feat. - Kali Uchis) (Clean) – Tyler, the Creator, Kali Uchi

“See You Again” is a lovesick anthem. “Can I get a kiss. /And can you make it last forever?” The mix of Kali Uchi’s gorgeous vocals and Tyler, The Creator’s unmatchable lyrics make this song truly iconic. It’s a beautiful yet bittersweet exploration of love's complexities, likely resonating deeply with fans of Tyler's introspective work as well as those who enjoy a touch of dreamy neo-soul.

Tyler initially wrote "See You Again" for Zayn Malik from One Direction. However, after Zayn flaked out on studio time with Tyler, Tyler decided to keep the song to himself. Now, the song has exceeded all expectations of popularity since.

"See You Again" (Clean)

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Born Again(feat. Doja Cat & RAYE)” – LISA, Doja Cat, RAYE

This is a collaboration that I didn’t know needed to happen. This song is so star-packed with iconic, award-winning female vocals. Though debuting on February 6, 2025, an unreleased demo of the song recorded by RAYE was leaked in 2021 shortly after her departure from Polydor. Now, it is the fourth single from LISA’s solo album “Alter Ego” and continues the theme of empowerment and transformation. The tale of heartbreak, self-discovery, and overcoming obstacles is told as each artist considers how, had they tried a little harder, they would have persuaded their respective lovers of something greater. This disco-tinged production with a funky bassline is incredibly worthwhile. RAYE’s vocals are stunning and LISA deferring Doja Cat on rapping is perfection.

LISA - BORN AGAIN feat. Doja Cat & RAYE (Official Music Video)

 
 

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

 Back to Top

SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: Feb. 8-16, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

monday, FEB 10

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

TUESDAY, FEB 11

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Coyote Cafe returns this week during lunch in the Kids Kitchen! (info)

  • Graduation Parent Volunteer Lunch Meeting from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (info)

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies with Mr. Goldie from 3:20 pm - 5:30 pm (HIM will move to Thursdays beginning February 20th!)

WEDNESDAY, feb 12

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Palentine’s Day Orders Due to Ms. Kohler by 11:30 am (info)

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Art Club - Cancelled this Week - Returning February 19th

THURSDAY, FEB 13

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Spring Theatre Script Reading with Mr. Goldie from 3:30 pm - 4:15 pm (info)

FRIDAY, FEB 14

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Palentine’s Day Deliveries during 3rd period (info)

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

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Ms. Warden is Diggin’ Hartly’s Kickstarter…

Hartly doesn’t mess around- oh wait, yes he does…but not when it comes to turning ideas and dreams into realities. Hartly published his first book at 12, currently runs our D&D Club, and is an all-around awesome Coyote. Check out his newest project here:  https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/hartly/nightbringer

 
 

—————————————-

Every week in the WYNK a staff or faculty member shares something they are ‘diggin’! It may be a music artist, a museum, a hobby, a book, a tech tool, a current event, a recipe, a game, a fun fact… you name it - we dig it!

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PARENT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR GRADUATION!

As many of you know, graduation at GWCS is an all-school celebration, and we rely heavily on non-senior parent volunteers to make this day truly special and memorable for our graduates.

1st Graduation Volunteer Meeting:

  • WHEN: Tuesday, February 11, 2025

  • TIME: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

  • LOCATION: Alexa’s Classroom

  • LUNCH PROVIDED: Catered Baked Potato Bar (available for those who R.S.V.P.’d by Feb. 6th)

GWCS Spring Theatre Production Round-Up…

Spring is (almost) in the Air!

But at GWCS, we're already thinking ahead... to Spring Theatre Productions! Casting decisions are looming so if you are new to GWCS theatre and want to get in on the action — attending a script reading is a must.

Next Script Reading:

Thursday, February 13, 2025
3:30 pm - 4:15 pm

 

Theatre Rehearsals:

With a few shifts here and there, Theatre Rehearsals will take place on Mon., Tue., Wed., and Fri. from 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm beginning February 18th and continue through April 8th. If needed, Sunday rehearsals may be added. The performances will take place on April 9 & 10. The cast will receive more detailed info via email in the coming weeks or you can refer to the GWCS Calendar.

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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Palentine’s Day at GWCS…

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2025

In celebration of all of our Coyote Pals, Ms. Kohler’s Cognitive Capacities class is taking orders for roses and/or sweets for you to give to your pals (or your kids). The proceeds will go towards the annual Spring Palooza! Be sweet and place your orders today! Parents are welcome to place orders as well.

Available to Order in varying quantities:

  • Roses w/ Handmade Card

  • Lindt Milk Chocolates

  • Sweedish Fish

  • Sour Patch Candies

Orders will be distributed on Palentine's Day — Friday, February 14th — during 3rd period!

CLICK HERE FOR GIFT INFO AND THE ONLINE ORDER FORM (REQUIRED)

PAYING WITH CASH:

Please bring cash in an envelope directly to Mrs. Kohler (her classroom is across from Mr. Mallonee's Office) no later than noon on Wednesday, February 12th! Please put customer info on the envelope!

PAYING BY CREDIT CARD ONLINE:

Note the price is slightly increased due to credit card processing fee. Payment is due when order is placed.

CLICK HERE TO PAY BY CREDIT CARD (OPTIONAL)

PALENTINE ORDER DEADLINE!

All Palentine order forms must be submitted no later than: 12:00 pm on Wednesday, February 12, 2025!

PALENTINE QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Ms. Kohler
kohlerja@gwcommunityschool.com

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Parent Volunteer Coffee & Co-Op Discussion…

R.E.A.L. TERM Spring Co-Op 

Realistic Education & Authentic Learning

GWCS has been recognized for its extensive co-op program that gives each of our students the opportunity to gain work experience while getting perspective into potential college majors and career goals. Understanding what it takes to be a responsible employee also gives our students a leg up in preparing for college and beyond. Co-Op experience is obviously a big plus on college applications where schools increasingly look for real world experience beyond the classroom.  

We are looking for help in planning our 2025 Co-Ops. Join me for coffee and a perky Co-Op discussion next week.

  • DATE: Wednesday, February 19, 2025

  • TIME: 8:15 am - 9:15 am

  • LOCATION: GWCS Kid’s Kitchen

  • R.S.V.P.: By Monday, February 17, 2025

click here to sign-up so we know how many cups to brew

Warm Regards,

Alexa C. Warden
wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com

Back to Top

Spring PSAT & SAT Update…

 
 

What You Need to Know:

  • All GWCS 8th, 9th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 8/9 Exam

  • All GWCS 10th graders have been signed up to take the PSAT 10 Exam

  • All 11th and 12th graders have the option to take the SAT Exam

ALL STUDENTS should opt-in or opt-out of the spring SAT/PSATs by clicking the button below.

GWCS uses the results of the PSAT for underclassmen to identify students' academic strengths and weaknesses, and then uses this data to strengthen the GWCS curriculum.

CLICK HERE TO OPT-IN OR OPT-OUT OF PSAT/SAT EXAM

What if you’re NOT scheduled to take an exam? Stay tuned for more details about test-day as we get closer to April. GWCS covers the cost this year.

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

Back to Top

Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

(1) Pat Smear, (2) Krist Novoselic, (3) Dave Grohl, (4) Kurt Cobain

“School” – Nirvana

Who are these dashing gentlemen?! It is the one and only members of Nirvana! After about thirty-one years since Kurt Cobain’s death, the remaining members of Nirvana, along with some iconic female singers, reunited to perform a four-song set at the FireAid Benefit Concert to raise money for the tragic California fires. Since one of the songs in their set was “School,” I thought it would be fitting to use pictures of the band when they were in school.

“School” is the fourth track on Nirvana’s first album “Bleach.” The “Bleach” album was pre-Dave Grohl. Instead, in “School” it was the one of the forgotten members of Nirvana, Chad Channing on the drums. Kurt Cobain’s raw vocals fill the song with a familiar, relatable frustration. During the bridge of the song Cobain repeats “You’re in high school again.” On the eighth and final time he yell/screams “You’re in high school again!” causing his voice to crack into an impressively, iconic high octave.

"School" - Nirvana

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Nowehere Man” – The Beatles

Recommended by Brendan

Almost everyone at some point in their life has felt like a “Nowhere Man.” Feeling doubts while still trying to keep their confidence. John Lennon’s vocals feel like you are not alone in this feeling. It’s like he brings a voice to the voiceless.

“Nowhere Man” is infamous for showcasing the bands new direction in music where they were less interested in playing music live and were more interested in using the recording studio as an instrument. As John Lennon was desperately trying to come up with a new song for the record, “Rubber Soul,” he wanted to come up with a song worthwhile. After five hours of trying, he went to lie down when suddenly the entire song just came to him in a flash and that became the basis of the song. Lyrics like, “Doesn’t have a point of view. /Knows not where he’s going to. /Isn’t he a bit like you and me?” is perfect example of John Lennon’s amazing lyricisms.

"Nowhere Man" - The Beatles

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Love and Other Forms of Violence” – Zopa

Released on January 15, 2025, “Love and Other Forms of Violence” is an awesome rock song that I didn’t know I needed.

Michael Imperioli is known for films like The Sopranos and, more recently, White Lotus. What Imperioli is less known for is his underground, arty garage-rock trio Zopa. When listening to “Love and Other Forms of Violence” you will visibly bop your head along with the song. The fuzzy guitar is so great to listen to. You should definitely give Zopa a listen.

“Love and Other Forms of Violence” – Zopa

Ms. Kohler is back and so is…

Coyote Cafe - Every Tuesday!

 
 

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

 Back to Top

SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: Feb. 1 - 9, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

SATURDAY, FEB 1

  • Coyote Robotics with Mr. Lindner from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

monday, FEB 3

  • No School - Student Holiday & Teacher Workday

TUESDAY, FEB 4

  • No School - Student Holiday & Teacher Workday

WEDNESDAY, feb 5

  • Welcome to Second Semester!

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Art Club - Cancelled this Week - Returning February 19th

  • Coyote Robotics with Mr. Lindner from 3:15 pm - 4:30 pm

THURSDAY, FEB 6

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

FRIDAY, FEB 7

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

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Welcome to Second Semester…

Our Coyote Family Is Growing!

Let's give a thunderous Coyote Welcome to our newest students and their families! If you spot a fresh face in the hallways or during pick-up/drop-off, take a moment to introduce yourself with that signature Coyote warmth and spirit.

And let's celebrate a truly special addition—our youngest Coyote ever, baby Kaylee! She'll be joining GWCS alongside her proud mama, Ms. Kohler, and will make our brand-new nursery her cozy home away from home. Welcome to the pack, Kaylee!

Ms. Warden
wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com

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Ms. Warden is Diggin’ Parent Volunteers…

#1 - PARENT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR GRADUATION!

As many of you know, graduation at GWCS is an all-school celebration, and we rely heavily on non-senior parent volunteers to make this day truly special and memorable for our graduates.

1st Graduation Volunteer Meeting:

  • WHEN: Tuesday, February 11, 2025

  • TIME: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

  • LOCATION: Alexa’s Classroom

  • LUNCH PROVIDED: Catered Baked Potato Bar

  • R.S.V.P.: By Thursday, February 6, 2025 - catering order will be placed on Friday!

CLICK HERE TO RSVP FOR GRAD MEETING #1

#2 - PARENT VOLUNTEER COFFEE & CO-OP DISCUSSION

Save the date! More info to come in next week’s WYNK!

  • DATE: Wednesday, February 19, 2025

  • TIME: 8:15 am - 9:15 am

  • LOCATION: GWCS Kid’s Kitchen

 

—————————————-

Every week in the WYNK a staff or faculty member shares something they are ‘diggin’! It may be a music artist, a museum, a hobby, a book, a tech tool, a current event, a recipe, a game, a fun fact… you name it - we dig it!

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Weekly Song Recommendations…

Master of the St Lucy Legend - Mary, Queen of Heaven- c. 1480 - c. 1510

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Samurai Swords (Acoustic Version)” – Highasakite

“Samurai Swords (Acoustic Version)” is such a beautiful song. The original song is nothing like the acoustic version. The original is very hyperpop while the acoustic version has heart-wrenching vocals accompanied by gorgeous piano. “Samurai Swords (Acoustic Version)” sounds like a melancholic warning to the person she loves, or at the least who loves her, to stay away because she believes she is incapable of giving true, healthy love. “I'm not focused, I'm not stable. There's no patience, no salvation There's no heartache, I'm not loving. I'm not loving, I'm not loving.” She has deemed herself toxic, implied they should just do away with her, and move on with their lives and find someone else to love. This entire song haunts me with is beauty and vulnerability.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9R1QB0m91RY

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Old Dominion” – Eddie from Ohio

Recommended by Naomi

Eddie From Ohio is a local band from Vienna, Virginia. They write fun folk music that can cheer you up if you are feeling down. “Old Dominion” was originally written as a replacement for the older, admittedly racist, Virginia state song. “But babe the Rocky Mountains are gradually eroding. The hills of coors are nothing more. Than blue ridge wannabes.” “Old Dominion” is the perfect mix of silly folk music bit while still making a statement.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sq3ahoMjxM

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Trouble” – Sharon Van Etten

“Trouble” was released on a single on January 15, 2025, along with the songs “Southern Life (What It Must Be Like)” and “Afterlife” that have an awesome alternative/indie sound. “Trouble” is about the challenges of loving someone who has different views and the pain of having to hide parts of yourself. The song explores the idea of choosing to prioritize the needs of someone you love over your own. “People say I'm a one-hit wonder. But what happens when I have two? I washed your dishes. But I sh*tted in your bathroom.” She spoke to Rolling Stone about her upcoming album “Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory” that will be released on February 7, 2025. She said, “…whatever you’re feeling and whoever you are and how you relate to people in that moment. If I can just keep a sense of openness while knowing that my feelings change every day, that is all I can do right now. That and try to be the best person I can be while letting other people be who they are and not taking it personally and just being.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hu3aQKiq-hk

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

 Back to Top

SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: Jan. 25 - Feb. 2, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

SATURDAY, JAN 25

  • Coyote Robotics with Mr. Lindner from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

monday, JAN 27

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

TUESDAY, JAN 28

  • Midterm Exam Review Day! (info)

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies with Mr. Goldie from 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm

WEDNESDAY, jan 29

  • Midterm Exams for 2nd and 3rd Period Classes (info) (details) (attendance form)

  • Gym is Optional - Parents must complete attendance form if student is not attending

  • 2nd Period Midterm Exams begin at 9:30 am

  • 3rd Period Midterm Exams begin at 12:30 pm

  • Early Dismissal at 2:30 pm

  • After School Activities - Canceled

THURSDAY, jan 30

  • Midterm Exams for 4th and 5th Period Classes (info) (details) (attendance form)

  • Gym is Optional - Parents must complete attendance form if student is not attending

  • 4th Period Midterm Exams begin at 9:30 am

  • 5th Period Midterm Exams begin at 12:30 pm

  • Early Dismissal at 2:30 pm

  • After School Activities - Canceled

FRIDAY, jan 31

  • Midterm Exams for 6th Period Classes (info) (details) (attendance form)

  • Gym is Optional - Parents must complete attendance form if student is not attending

  • 6th Period Midterm Exams begin at 9:30 am

  • Early Dismissal at 11:30 am

  • After School Activities - Canceled

SATURDAY, FEB 1

  • Coyote Robotics with Mr. Lindner from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

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Mrs. Sinichko is Diggin’ Failure…

Museum of Failure - where dreams go to die (gloriously!)

Did you know there was a pop-up “Museum of Failure” event in Washington D.C.? If you missed it, no worries, you can checkout the failures on the museum’s website. The quirky collection showcases a graveyard of once-promising products and services that bit the dust. With over 200 exhibits and a growing roster of spectacular flops, it's a reminder that even the brightest minds can stumble.

But fear not! It’s not a museum of shame, it's a celebration of the messy, unpredictable world of innovation. After all, every epic win starts with a few epic fails. Take a look and learn from the wreckage! You might just find the inspiration to create your own (hopefully successful) masterpiece. Follow: https://www.instagram.com/museumoffailure

I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways

that won't work. - Thomas A. Edison

—————————————-

Every week in the WYNK a staff or faculty member shares something they are ‘diggin’! It may be a music artist, a museum, a hobby, a book, a tech tool, a current event, a recipe, a game, a fun fact… you name it - we dig it!

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GWCS Midterm Exams Schedule…

click image

January 28-31, 2025

More details and very important information provided in the midterms document linked in the blue button below. All students and parents should read this carefully and make plans in advance of midterm week.

 
 

MIDTERM EXAM SCHEDULE SUMMARY

TUE, JAN 28, 2025

  • Midterm Review Day - Normal Gym & Class Schedule

WED, JAN 29, 2025

  • 8:00 am - Gym

  • 9:30 am - 2nd Period Midterm Exams Begin

  • 12:30 pm - 3rd Period Midterm Exams Begin

  • 2:30 pm - Early Dismissal

THU, JAN 30, 2025

  • 8:00 am - Gym

  • 9:30 am - 4th Period Midterm Exams Begin

  • 12:30 pm - 5th Period Midterm Exams Begin

  • 2:30 pm - Early Dismissal

FRI, JAN 31, 2025

  • 8:00 am - Gym

  • 9:30 am - 6th Period Midterm Exams Begin

  • 11:30 am - Early Dismissal

Click Here for Very VERY VERY Important Midterm DETAILS
CLICK HERE TO GO DIRECTLY TO THE GWCS ATTENDANCE REPORTING FORM

Art Club Mural Update & Reminder…

Heads up! Art Club is on hiatus and will be back in action on Wednesday, February 19th.

〰️

Heads up! Art Club is on hiatus and will be back in action on Wednesday, February 19th. 〰️

Witness the transformation! The GWCS Art Club mural is coming to life. These progress photos are a testament to Oscar Wilde's words: 'Mere colour... can speak to the soul in a thousand different ways.”

 
 

URGENT! Requesting Parent Support…

turtle care: a once a week check in & advice is all we ask

 
 

 We are desperately seeking a couple of parents to help advise us on turtle care. Ideally, this parent could come in once a week for just a few minutes and direct us on best practices, next steps, and how to improve our turtle habitat. PLEASE email Alexa A.S.A.P. if you can help. wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com

 Back to Top

Weekly Song Recommendations…

Master of the St Lucy Legend - Mary, Queen of Heaven- c. 1480 - c. 1510

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“We’re In This Together” – Nine Inch Nails

I have been completely hooked on “We’re In This Together” for weeks. Unlike a lot of Nine Inch Nails songs, it’s not just another song with Trent Reznor screaming with the classic theme of immense darkness. There is a more mainstream quality to the song. Though the rest of the record, The Fragile, is “pretty dense and somewhat challenging to get through…” Reznor admitted. “We’re In This Together” stills hold the Nine Inch Nails signature of distortion and constant layered guitars. The song is perfect to workout to except for the 1:45 minute that is super chill and has soft piano.

Surprisingly enough, the song was inspired by David Bowie’s hit song “Heros.” You can see the similarities in the lyrics. In “Heroes” lyrics like “I, I will be king. /And you, you will be queen” and “Nothing can keep us together.” Clearly inspired lyrics of “You're the queen and I'm the king” and “Nothing else means anything.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9BfvPjsXXw

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Your Silent Face” – New Order

Recommended by
Mr. Howarth

New Order’s album “Power corruption and Lies” is a spectacular record but “Your Silent Face” can probably be considered the centerpiece of it. It makes memorable, melodic hooks while highlighting their fascination with synthesizers and electronic noises. The lyrics show a type of frustration as the song ends with “You've caught me at a bad time. /So, why don't you piss off?” Even though the lyrics are a bit dramatic, the electric beats make you sing along. New Order bravely forged their own identity as they emerged from the shadow of Joy Division in the 1980’s.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MEl0Chq36lc

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Salute (The Show)” – Wes Parker

Wes Parker is a local artist from Richmond, Virginia. He even attended Mary Washington! After his previous band Camp Howard broke up, Parker made use of his free time by creating comedy skits about the music scene. Now, he has embarked on a new musical journey under his own name.

“Salute (The Show)” was released as a single on January 3, 2025. It will soon appear on his first EP “Splinter” this Friday on January 24, 2025. The song starts with flute sounding synthesizers and transitions into an upbeat melody. The upbeat-ness of the sound disguises the fact the the song is about a union Civil War. Parker said that “Salute (The Show)” was the first time he had ever collaborated with someone on lyrics. His bass player wrote the first lyrics and verses 1 and 2. “March on into New Market. /Clutching navy fabric tight.” And “Baked in summer’s languid sprawl. /Please tell my family I love them.” Very sad but also a great song.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4THHC2esNg

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

 Back to Top

SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: Jan. 18 - 26, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

SATURDAY, JAN 18

  • Coyote Robotics Qualifying Tournament with Mr. Lindner at Harrisonburg High School

monday, JAN 20

  • No School - Dr. Martin Luther King Holiday

TUESDAY, JAN 21

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies with Mr. Goldie from 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm

WEDNESDAY, jan 22

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Art Club with Ms. Albert from 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm

  • Coyote Robotics with Mr. Lindner from 3:15 pm - 4:30 pm

THURSDAY, jan 23

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

FRIDAY, jan 24

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

SATURDAY, jan 25

  • Coyote Robotics with Mr. Lindner from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

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Ms. Warden is Diggin’ the Newly Renovated Kids’ Kitchen…

 
 

Let’s face it: the old staff kitchen failed miserably at being a staff kitchen. The kids were in there all the time. So, in the true spirit of "if ya can’t beat ’em, join ’em," we took it a step further and fully renovated it to realize its true potential as the Kids’ Kitchen.  

Unveiled on Monday, January 13th, the Kids’ Kitchen took its maiden voyage, hosting Mr. Parisi and Ms. Warden’s English class during 6th period for the famous "Teach Me How to Make a PB&J" assignment. Hilarity ensued.  

Then, during 7th period Amazing Days, Aung, Maeve, and Naomi dove into a cooking chemistry experiment, creating Fizzy Clouds and Special Sand.  

This Friday, for Amazing Days, we will be hosting the popular "Cooking with Katie Z." session, where the kids will make TikTok Pasta.  

A huge THANK YOU to the foundation for funding this effort!  

Ms. Warden
wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com

—————————————-

Every week in the WYNK a staff or faculty member shares something they are ‘diggin’! It may be a music artist, a museum, a hobby, a book, a tech tool, a current event, a recipe, a game, a fun fact… you name it - we dig it!

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GWCS Midterm Exams Schedule…

click image

January 28-31, 2025

More details and very important information provided in the midterms document linked in the blue button below. All students and parents should read this carefully and make plans in advance of midterm week.

 
 

MIDTERM EXAM SCHEDULE SUMMARY

TUE, JAN 28, 2025

  • Midterm Review Day - Normal Gym & Class Schedule

WED, JAN 29, 2025

  • 8:00 am - Gym

  • 9:30 am - 2nd Period Midterm Exams Begin

  • 12:30 pm - 3rd Period Midterm Exams Begin

  • 2:30 pm - Early Dismissal

THU, JAN 30, 2025

  • 8:00 am - Gym

  • 9:30 am - 4th Period Midterm Exams Begin

  • 12:30 pm - 5th Period Midterm Exams Begin

  • 2:30 pm - Early Dismissal

FRI, JAN 31, 2025

  • 8:00 am - Gym

  • 9:30 am - 6th Period Midterm Exams Begin

  • 11:30 am - Early Dismissal

Click Here for Very VERY VERY Important Midterm DETAILS
CLICK HERE TO GO DIRECTLY TO THE GWCS ATTENDANCE REPORTING FORM

Art Club Mural Update & Request…

Huge progress on day one of painting our mural! Can’t wait to see it when it’s done. Be sure to come into school and pause in the main hallway to see the progress. (Then wander a little farther down the hall and take a peak a the newly renovated ‘Kids’ Kitchen’!)

There is one very cool idea that the Art Club could use some help with. We would like to attach small 3-D printed accents to the wall to give it some texture. If' you would like to help - all you need is a Fairfax County Library Card and you automatically have access to a 3-D printer! I can give you directions. Card holders can only print one file per week, per card, and I need help expediting our prints.

Thanks in advance for your help,

Rachel Albert
Art Club Teacher & Micha’s Mom
thealberts1@mac.com

 
 

URGENT! Requesting Parent Support…

turtle care: a once a week check in & advice is all we ask

 
 

 We are desperately seeking a couple of parents to help advise us on turtle care. Ideally, this parent could come in once a week for just a few minutes and direct us on best practices, next steps, and how to improve our turtle habitat. PLEASE email Alexa A.S.A.P. if you can help. wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com

 Back to Top

Weekly Song Recommendations…

Master of the St Lucy Legend - Mary, Queen of Heaven- c. 1480 - c. 1510

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Over Now – Live at the Majestic Theatre, Brooklyn, NY – 1996” – Alice In Chains

The MTV Unplugged albums from 90’s grunge bands I always cherish. They take hardcore songs and can turn them into completely different songs. Debatably, the MTV Unplugged version can be better than the original ones.  

Alice in Chain’s did their MTV Unplugged after two and a half years of not performing. “Over Now” is from Alice In Chain’s is the final track on their third and final studio album, “Alice In Chains.” “Over Now” is originally a rough, distorted song. It’s a good song, but something magical happens when the distortion and electric guitars are out of the picture. “Over Now” turns into a beautiful, acoustic piece. Layne Staley was in a very delicate state during this performance. His addiction was in full force, and he had lost a lot of weight. His voice was still beautifully but vulnerable. The chorus in “Over Now” reflect his emotions. “You know it’s been on my mind. /Could you stand right there. /Look me straight in the eye. /And say it's over now.” Layne Staley’s perseverance created one of the best MTV Unplugged albums ever.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sV_-8KIXyPs

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“I’m Goin’ Down” – Bruce Springsteen

Recommended by Brenner

“I’m Goin’ Down” is a twangy power pop song. “I’m Goin’ Down” represents the old days the future you will miss. Springsteen sings about misreading signals from his girlfriend. She didn’t reciprocate his advances, and the humiliation of rejection set in. He wonders what happened. “I go to put my arm around you. /And you give me a look like I’m way out of bounds.” Though the lyrics are sad, “I’m Goin’ Down” is a classic American Pop song that everyone loves. You can dance to it or blast it in the car. “I’m Goin’ Down” is perfect for every mood.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDePd-mHOL4

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“I Know You Miss Me” – Kaylee Lauren

Kaylee Lauren is an uprising dark pop artist. She has compared her music to Madison Beer, Lana Del Ray, Nessa Barrett, and Sabrina Carpenter. Kaylee Lauren released “I Know You Miss Me” on January 10, 2025. She posted that it is “Truly my favorite song I’ve ever released…” The song’s structure is like “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus. The song is about an ex. “I know you miss me. /I know I’m the best you’ve had.” Overall, it is a great song to nod along to.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x3L0EH9R16k

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

 Back to Top

SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: Jan. 11 - 20, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

SATURDAY, JAN 11

  • Coyote Robotics with Mr. Lindner from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

monday, JAN 13

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

TUESDAY, JAN 14

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies with Mr. Goldie from 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm

WEDNESDAY, jan 15

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm
    Let the painting begin!!

  • Art Club with Ms. Albert from 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm

  • Coyote Robotics with Mr. Lindner from 3:15 pm - 4:30 pm

THURSDAY, jan 16

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

FRIDAY, jan 17

  • Deadline: Broadway or Bust Trip Payment (info)

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Tea with Isaac Newton - Presented by Mr. H’s History of Science class (info)

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

SATURDAY, jan 18

  • Coyote Robotics Qualifying Tournament with Mr. Lindner at Harrisonburg High School

MONDAY, JAN 20

GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

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Ms. Graham is Diggin’ MLK Holiday…

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a groundbreaking leader whose dedication to civil rights and justice reshaped America. His iconic "I Have a Dream" speech inspired millions to pursue a vision of equality and harmony. Today, we honor his legacy through the MLK holiday, a day that not only celebrates his achievements but also encourages us to reflect on the ongoing fight for justice and equality. I appreciate the MLK holiday because it serves as a powerful reminder to continue striving for a world where everyone is valued and respected, keeping King's dream alive in our hearts and actions.

Read Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I Have a Dream' speech in its entirety

Ms. Graham
GrahamDS@gwcommunityschool.com

Holiday: Monday, January 20, 2025

—————————————-

Every week in the WYNK a staff or faculty member shares something they are ‘diggin’! It may be a music artist, a museum, a hobby, a book, a tech tool, a current event, a recipe, a game, a fun fact… you name it - we dig it!

Back to Top

Come by and meet Sir Isaac Newton, his niece Catherine Barton, astronomer Edmund Halley, and architect Christopher Wren as they discuss the scientific wonders of the late 17th century over a “spot of tea and biscuits”.  We will talk about Gravity, Alchemy, Comets, and other events that would have been discussed in Sir Isaac’s London home around the year 1710. Bring your teacup, inquiries, sophistication, (and English accents?!) as we celebrate the great scientist’s 383rd birthday.

  • WHEN: Friday, January 17th during 5th & 6th periods (updated 1.13.25)

  • WHO: Ryan Carroll, McKenzie Preston, Myat Tun, Mr. Howarth

  • WHERE: Explorer’s Room

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Howarth
howarthd@gwcommunityschool.com

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Start Spreading the News…

The Coyotes are taking on NYC!

Join Mr. Goldie in seeing Chicago & Hamilton on Broadway, along with plenty of NYC sightseeing and adventures! This trip is open to all 9th - 12th graders.

MARCH 18-20, 2025
$1,650 DUE JAN. 17, 2025
Limited spots available

 
 
 

THE DEETS…

  • WHAT: Annual GWCS Trip to NYC - "Broadway or Bust"

  • WHO: GWCS 9th - 12th Graders - Limited spots available!

  • DATES: March 18-20, 2025 (Tuesday - Thursday)

  • COST: $1,650

  • PAYMENT: Check payable to GWCS - give to Ms. Graham -or- pay by credit card online (click here) additional 3% PayPal chg.

  • DEADLINE: January 17, 2025

  • TRANSPORTATION: AMTRAK

 

A Brief (Tentative) Itinerary:

Tuesday, March 18

  • Meet at Union Station in DC at 7:15 to leave on the Amtrak train by 7:45 am

  • Grab lunch, see Times Square, and check in to the hotel (The Belvedere) 

  • Dinner at Route 66 Cafe

  • See Chicago

Wednesday, Mar. 19

  • Explore Central Park and see some of its most famous attractions

  • Find some lunch

  • Head to Battery Park to catch a ferry out to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

  • Dinner at La Masseria

  • See Hamilton

  • Late night pie at Juniors

Thursday, MarCH 20

  • Visit the 'color museum' or some other delightful event

  • Hop on Amtrak and get back to Union Station in DC around 5 pm 

QUESTIONS? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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Coyote Snow Daze!

What did you do for the four unexpected days of no school?

URGENT! Requesting Parent Support…

turtle care: a once a week check in & advice is all we ask

 
 

 We are desperately seeking a couple of parents to help advise us on turtle care. Ideally, this parent could come in once a week for just a few minutes and direct us on best practices, next steps, and how to improve our turtle habitat. PLEASE email Alexa A.S.A.P. if you can help. wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com

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Weekly Song Recommendations…

Master of the St Lucy Legend - Mary, Queen of Heaven- c. 1480 - c. 1510

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

 

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Follow Your Dreams” – Michael Kiwanuka

After an eight-year hiatus, Michael Kiwanuka came out with his fourth studio album “Small Changes.” After being up for the Mercury Prize (best album from the United Kingdom or Ireland) twice, he won the award in 2020. Later, on The One Show the Irish DJ and broadcaster Annie Mac said that it was third time luck. After hearing her ambush against him, he said a switch flipped in him. He gained more confidence and said, "It allowed me to feel that, actually, I just want to make the records that come naturally." You can hear the freedom he feels “Follow Your Dreams.”

It was so hard to choose a track off “Small Changes” because I thoroughly enjoyed every track. “Follow Your Dreams” stood out to me because the beautiful R&B/Soul feels like you are gliding through positive, reassuring energy. It grooves. The soft synthesizer blends perfectly with the relaxing guitar. The chorus repeats “Follow your dreams /(Fear no danger)” and I believe him. “Small Changes” is the perfect album to fill your brain with positivity.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SlPB0IBIDc0

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Appletree” – Erykah Badu

Recommended by Isabelle

Erykah Badu is considered the queen of neo-soul. In “Appletree”, Badu sings about having everything to offer but keeping an indifference. The first lyrics she sings are, “It was a stormy night, you know the kind where lightning strikes. /And I was hanging out with some of my artsy friends.” Kicking knowledge isn’t high stakes if you’re not concerned with the ears receiving it. She bridges into the chorus with, “I don’t walk around trying to be what I’m not. /I don’t waste time trying to get what you got /I work at pleasing me. /Cause I can’t please you and that’s why I do what I do.” Erykah Badu is so very talented and a gem to music.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nujt--zPa70

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Fire Escape” – aeseaes

This indie-folk acoustic duo is made up of a married and very talented couple, Travis Chapman and Allie Eissler, from Austin, Texas. After working a lot of “unsatisfying office jobs” they decided to give live streaming their music. Today their channel on Twitch.tv is one of the most successful in the music live streaming community with a fanbase of over 70,000 followers. Allie sings the vocals and plays guitar, while Travis usually accompanies her with bass, double bass, cello, or any other four string instrument that comes to his mind. This creates a unique yet oddly nostalgic feeling in their folk music. “And as you pull. /My head away. /I'm flying down. /The fire escape.” This songs reminds me of some of Billie Eilish’s new album “HIT ME HARD AND SOFT.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDQys1okB34

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

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SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: Jan. 4 - 12, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

Reminder… Art Club Returns Wednesday, January 8th!

SATURDAY, JAN 4

  • Coyote Robotics with Mr. Lindner from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

monday, JAN 6

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

TUESDAY, JAN 7

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies with Mr. Goldie from 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm

WEDNESDAY, jan 8

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Art Club with Ms. Albert from 3:15 pm - 4:15 pm

  • Coyote Robotics with Mr. Lindner from 3:15 pm - 4:30 pm

THURSDAY, jan 9

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

FRIDAY, jan 10

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Tea with Isaac Newton - Presented by Mr. Howarth’s History of Science Class (Tentative)

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

SATURDAY, jan 11

  • Coyote Robotics with Mr. Lindner from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

GWCS ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR - UPDATED DAILY

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Mrs. Sinichko is Diggin’ 25,000 Bouncy Balls…

Hey Coyotes! Did you hear about the epic New Year's Eve celebration in the Bay Area? They dropped a whopping 25,000 bouncy balls in TWO different spots! How fun and unique is that?

 
 

Ready to make 2025 amazing? Unleash your creativity and live out the GWCS VALUES🐺: Learning, Service, Kindness, Excellence, Investment, Team Play, Intellectual Curiosity, and Responsibility.

Support each other, learn from every experience, and have a blast along the way! Bring it on 2025!


—————————————-

Every week in the WYNK a staff or faculty member shares something they are ‘diggin’! It may be a music artist, a museum, a hobby, a book, a tech tool, a current event, a recipe, a game, a fun fact… you name it - we dig it!

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Theatre Thoughts…

To the largest audience to ever see a show at GWCS: If you walked away from the Black Box Theatre last week thinking, “I really do hate Shakespeare,’ then you are the Grinch, and you missed the point.  You were supposed to be thinking, ‘Wow, that was some really first rate entertainment,’ and then musing to yourselves about how great Shakespeare’s work really is.

To everybody who worked all those hours, crafting together that two hour extravaganza: thank you for all of your time and effort.  The show, minor glitches and all, was amazing.  Twice.  It was vibrant and fun on both nights and a sheer joy for me to watch from back stage.  Listening to the audience react through every scene (laughing and crying) made me so proud to have been with you from the first reading through the last dress rehearsal.  You guys were excellent.

See you all back at the Black Box Theatre in April!

URGENT! Requesting Parent Support…

turtle care: a once a week check in & advice is all we ask

 
 

 We are desperately seeking a couple of parents to help advise us on turtle care. Ideally, this parent could come in once a week for just a few minutes and direct us on best practices, next steps, and how to improve our turtle habitat. PLEASE email Alexa A.S.A.P. if you can help. wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com

 Back to Top

Master of the St Lucy Legend - Mary, Queen of Heaven- c. 1480 - c. 1510

Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Real” – Velleese

Velleese is one of the many artists that I have listened to during the break. She blends classic R&B with powerful and emotional lyricism. Even though “Real” is only 1:36 minutes, the song really stuck out to me. Not only will her vocals stick with you for hours but also her lyrics. “No apologies, there’s somethings you can’t fix. /Don’t come on to me when you want something.” She sings about her partner being fake and how she wants them to be “Real.” Every lyric resonates with you and will have you swaying your head with the song. Velleese is someone to look out for in this new year!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WmP7yuF-wEM&list=OLAK5uy_mZ3af1QmsIoylq013TayZn6NyD5LP4Fts

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“APT.” – Bruno Mars and ROSÉ

Recommended by Nathaniel

“APT.” has taken social media by storm. With two huge names like ROSÉ from BLACKPINK and Bruno Mars, it’s no surprise “APT.” made a number one hit on the Billboard Global 200, Global Excl., and US charts for nine weeks. It was the longest-running number one song of 2024. 

“APT.” is an abbreviation of the Korean term “아파트” which is pronounced “apateu” in English. It translates to ‘apartment’ and is the name of a Korean drinking game that's often played by people in their apartments. In the game participants chant “apateu” while placing their hands in a circle. Someone calls a number and whoever’s hand lands on top of the pile takes a drink.

“APT.” starts with ROSÉ chanting the beginning of the game in Korean and then “아파트” or “apateu.” The song makes a perfect transition to the chorus, “Don't you want me like I want you, baby? /Don't you need me like I need you now? /Sleep tomorrow, but tonight go crazy. /All you gotta do is just meet me at the…”

The light-heartedness of the song is something that everyone can enjoy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekr2nIex040

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Reincarnate” – Baby Jane

New year, new music! Baby Jane creates dance/electric music. She released “Reincarnate” on December 27, 2024, that has a great, dark beat to dance to! Baby Jane’s goth-alt aesthetic reflects in her music with lyrics like “Your first love fell asleep in the grave. /I’m her reincarnate.” The smoothness of the beats creates a very satisfying listen. It’s the type of song you can blast in your car during a night drive with all the windows down.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zek56ocBU_M

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

 Back to Top

SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: Dec. 21, 2024 - Jan. 5, 2025

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

DEC 21, 2024 - Jan 5, 2025

  • Winter Break - No School

 
 

Winter Wishes…

Dear Coyote Family,

Here’s to wishing you a wonderful winter break! I hope that you all will take time for yourselves, yet find yourselves surrounded by loved ones. I hope that you will take this time to entertain a folly, pursue a passion, take a deep breath, and curl up with a good—or even mediocre—book. I hope that you will find an opportunity to help someone less fortunate and that you, too, will be the recipient of a random act of kindness. I hope that you will have many opportunities for laughter and that you won’t have to practice your patience more than what is healthy.

As we enter this season of joy, love, and renewal, please know that the staff at GWCS is grateful to have you with us on our paths. You have given us the most important gift of all: yourselves.

Here’s to looking forward to a phenomenal 2025 with our Coyote Pack. Let’s make it our best yet!

With warmth and love,

Alexa

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Ms. Warden is Diggin’ & Anticipatin’…

The New Coyote Kitchen!

Wait for it—demolition of the artist formerly known as Staff Kitchen began on Wednesday, December 18th! When we return from Winter Break, we will christen our new Coyote Kitchen! Gone will be the knee-high counter, the two-foot-wide prep space, the burned and stained carpet, and the dearth of storage space. Coyote Kitchen Cooking Classes will take place during Amazing Days and maybe, just maybe, by the end of the year, we can rebrand ourselves... Coyote Cuisine. 

COME COOK WITH US!

Parents are invited to offer a Coyote Cooking Class to students during 7th period Amazing Days which are Mondays and Fridays from 2:22 pm to 3:15 pm. We have a French-door oven, hotplates, blenders, panini presses, and other accoutrement. Contact Alexa to lead a Coyote Kitchen class!

Ms. Warden
wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com

 
 

Every week in the WYNK a staff or faculty member shares something they are ‘diggin’! It may be a music artist, a museum, a hobby, a book, a tech tool, a current event, a recipe, a game, a fun fact… you name it - we dig it!

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An interactive presentation by:

Mr. Howarth’s GWCS History of Science class

Come by and meet Sir Isaac Newton, his niece Catherine Barton, astronomer Edmund Halley, and architect Christopher Wren as they discuss the scientific wonders of the late 17th century over a “spot of tea and biscuits”.  We will talk about Gravity, Alchemy, Comets, and other events that would have been discussed in Sir Isaac’s London home around the year 1710. Bring your teacup, inquiries, sophistication, (and English accents?!) as we celebrate the great scientist’s 383rd birthday.

  • WHEN: Early January.  (Stay tuned for details after Winter Break)

  • WHO: Ryan Carroll, McKenzie Preston, Myat Tun, Mr Howarth

  • WHERE: Explorer’s Room (During Lunch and 5th period)

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Howarth
howarthd@gwcommunityschool.com

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A Renaissance in Creativity…

Art Classes Return Post-Break!

Grab your berets and brushes! Art class with Ms. Albert returns Wednesday, January 8th from 3:15 pm - 4:30 pm. Be there or be circle!

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That’s a Wrap!

A Huge Coyote Arigato…

…to Kimberly Oestereich for leading an Amazing Days class on Furoshiki, the Japanese art of wrapping gifts in fabric. Mrs. O. also gave us pro tips on wrapping with paper, and man did she up our wrapping game. (Now we just have to work on our DJ skills.) Arigato aussi to all of the students who wrapped Ms. Warden's presents for her! :)

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URGENT! Requesting Parent Support…

Turtle Care advice NEEDED

 We are desperately seeking a couple of parents to help advise us on turtle care. Ideally, this parent could come in once a week for just a few minutes and direct us on best practices, next steps, and how to improve our turtle habitat. PLEASE email Alexa if you can help. wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com

 Back to Top

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

 Back to Top

Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Like Someone In Love – Vocal Version” – Chet Baker

“Like Someone In Love” was originally from the 1944 film “Belle of the Yukon” which was sung by Dinah Shore. Since then, various artists like Ella Fitzgerald, John Coltrane, Björk etc. I had been listening to the album “Chet Baker Sings” and I was pleased to find out that he had also done a cover of “Like Someone In Love.”

Chet Baker brings a soft, sweet, comforting style that complements the song beautifully. His soft and romantic voice feels like you are right there with him, and he is singing this song to you. The lyrics paint a picture of how he feels around the person he loves. “Sometimes the things I do astound me. /Mostly whenever you're around me.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6WWRMqC1ONM

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Jenny Was A Friend Of Mine” – The Killers

Recommended by:  Ms. Warden

This song was inspired by the 1986 murder of Jennifer Levin by Robert Chambers, also known as the "preppy killer." On August 26, 1986, Robert Chambers left a bar with Jennifer Levin, and she was found strangled to death in Central Park the next morning. Chambers claimed that Levin died during rough interaction and that he had no motive to kill her. Which wasn’t true. He was called the preppy killer because in court he would get all dressed up and look “preppy.”

The song starts with helicopter sounds and what sounds like sirens. This transitions into a great rock song. The lyrics come from Chambers perspective. As gruesome as that sounds, it is clearly sarcastic. “There ain't no motive for this crime. /Jenny was a friend of mine”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQwu08Sc2vA

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Venice Beach (Explicit)” – Henry Morris

Henry Morris is the sound we’ve been looking for. “Venice Beach” was released as a single on December 13, 2024. The song is like beach rock but with an alternative twist. Henry Morris’s soft, sensual voice adds a whole other layer to the mix. He sings of a troubled beach he is on, and a woman walks up to him. “Suddenly I’m at her feet. /The Queen of Venice Beach.” The songs closes with the sound of sirens and dogs barking. Overall, there are no swear words in the song except for one line at the end but I recommend you just skip that. It takes away from the beauty of the song.

https://youtu.be/BP_JsA7XyzU?si=ixRtYqdd9_K6O4k9

SHOW YOUR COYOTE SPIRIT…

ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR TODAY!

 
 
ORDER GWCS SPIRIT WEAR FROM ROKKITWEAR

Thank you for reading all the way to the end!

WYNK: Dec. 14 - 22, 2024

NEWSLETTER QUICK LINKS:

Pro-Tip: Blue Letters = Links - Happy Clicking!

SATURDAY, DEC 14

  • Coyote Robotics Qualifier Tournament with Mr. Lindner at Deep Run High School in Glen Allen, VA - Go Coyotes!

monday, DEC 16

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Amazing Days during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Gift-Wrapping Clinic with Mrs. O at 2:22 pm — an amazing Amazing Day option! (info)

  • Theatre Dress Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 4:00 pm - 8:30 pm

  • Deadline: Parents-Only Secret Santa Sign Up - Midnight Monday! (info)

TUESDAY, dec 17

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • History in Movies - cancelled this week!

  • Theatre Dress Rehearsal with Mr. Goldie from 4:00 pm - 8:30 pm

WEDNESDAY, DEC 18

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • What’s Happening Wednesdays during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Coyote Robotics with Mr. Lindner from 3:15 pm - 4:30 pm

  • Theatre Performance Night! I Hate Shakespeare 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm (info)

THURSDAY, DEC 19

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Office Hours during 7th period from 2:22 pm - 3:15 pm

  • Theatre Performance Night! I Hate Shakespeare 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm (info)

FRIDAY, DEC 20

  • Regular class schedule - First Period Gym thru Dismissal from 8:00 am - 3:15 pm

  • Parents-Only Secret Santa Gift Exchange - Ms. Warden’s Classroom at 2:30 pm (info)

  • Dungeons & Dragons with Hartly from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

SATURDAY, DEC 21

  • Coyote Robotics with Mr. Lindner from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

 
 

Mr. Parisi is Diggin’ Tell Me More…

I am very late to the party, but I have been watching “Tell Me More,” an interview show hosted by Kelly (no relation) Corrigan.  Corrigan talks with thinkers, scientists, artists, and students about a wide variety of topics.  She is curious, funny, down-to-earth, and eager to go beyond the superficial.  Some of the far-ranging topics and guests have included a discussion about writing with author Nick Hornby; performing with David Byrne; life and sports with coach Steve Kerr; tech, business, and education with professor Scott Galloway; journalism and politics with anchor Judy Woodruff; big-wave surfing with Bianca Valenti; “Grit, Self-Perception, and Optimism” with MacArthur winning psychologist, Angela Duckworth; “God, Science, and Well-Being” with W. Kamau Bell; “Innovation in Service of Social Needs” with student scientist Gitanjali Rao; and “Resilience” with Colonel Greg Gadson.

Corrigan has a humanity-forward approach that is moving and hopeful and energizing.  Her conversations reinforce the power of storytelling as a way to connect with others and make sense of our own experiences.  The show highlights the significance of sharing our stories and listening to the stories of others, bringing people closer and fostering empathy and understanding.  Check it out.

Mr. Parisi
English & Math Teacher
parisij@gwcommunityschool.com

Every week in the WYNK a staff or faculty member shares something they are ‘diggin’! It may be a music artist, a museum, a hobby, a book, a tech tool, a current event, a recipe, a game, a fun fact… you name it - we dig it!

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Gift -Wrapping Workshop…

come one - come all! 

Join us for yet another Amazing Day this Monday, December 16th at 2:22 pm for a gift-wrapping workshop in Ms. Warden’s classroom #4! Bring your presents to wrap—paper and bows will be provided. All are welcome. Mrs. Oesterreich (Matthew’s mom) will also introduce us to Furoshiki, the Japanese art of wrapping gifts with fabric. 

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No Spring Break School Trip This Year…

But There's Always Broadway!

 Thanks so much to all of the parents who completed surveys regarding spring break travel. We will not be able to offer a spring break trip this year. No, it was not due to analysis paralysis, rather these trips need to be planned one year out. We are not planning on rescheduling at this time. 

Stay tuned for details about our annual March ‘Broadway or Bust’ trip to NYC in a future WYNK. 

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Happy Accident Secret Santa…

Attention Parents: This One is for and from YOU!

You know when you hit send prematurely? Well, that's what happened with Hartly's Secret Santa email on Wednesday. That Secret Santa is for students only and is being organized via email.

Several parents emailed me to ask if they were invited to participate, so why not? This is a parents only Secret Santa! Sign up on the Google Form to engage in the holiday cheer. Spending limit is $25, and we will exchange gifts in Ms. Warden's classroom on Friday, December 20th at 2:30 pm. Hot chocolate and cookies will be provided.  (No gift cards allowed!)

  • WHO: GWCS Parents!

  • WHAT: Secret Santa Gift Exchange

  • SIGN UP DEADLINE: Midnight Monday, Dec. 16th

  • NOTIFICATION: Check your email on Tuesday, December 17th to see who you will be buying a gift for - as a Secret Santa. No gift cards.

  • WRAP: Each gift should be wrapped and labeled for who the gift is for but NOT who the gift is from. Remember, it’s a secret! We will guess during the exchange.

  • GIFT EXCHANGE: 2:30 pm Thursday, Dec. 19th in Ms. Warden’s classroom #4. Cookies and Hot Cocoa will be provided.

Click HERE for Secret Santa Sign Up - by Midnight Monday 12/16

The Survivors of the 5K Run with Santa…

Sunday, December 7, 2024

A big thanks to everyone who came out to the Run with Santa 5K! It was an amazing time, for an amazing cause. Student -make sure to check in with Mr. Connelly to log your community service hours. I can't wait to see you at the next 5K. 

Mr. Connelly
connellytp@gwcommunityschool.com

The GWCS Players Present:

 
 

A Comedy by Steph Deferie

Did you get your tickets? We are almost SOLD OUT for both nights!

---

Did you get your tickets? We are almost SOLD OUT for both nights! ---


reserve your seats and buy tickets… it’s a Two Step Process:

#1 click to reserve your seat(s)
#2 CLICK TO PAY FOR YOUR TICKET(S)


TWO PERFORMANCE NIGHTS:

  • Wednesday, December 18, 2024
    7:00 pm / $12 per ticket

  • Thursday, December 19, 2024
    7:00 pm / $12 per ticket

DRESS REHEARSAL VIEWINGS:

There will be an opportunity for a handful of people to attend dress rehearsals on Monday, December 16th and Tuesday, December 17th. If you are interested - talk with Mr. Goldie.

Questions? Contact:

Mr. Goldie
goldiera@gwcommunityschool.com

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We Love & Appreciate Our Parent Involvement…

 A huge Coyote Shout-Out to Tamara Pincus, certified sex therapist and mom to Ophelia,  for leading an Amazing Day AMA (ask me anything) on sex education! Tamara created a safe space for students to get accurate information beyond the typical FLE. We are excited to welcome her back soon for round two. 

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A Reminder For Our Fabulous GWCS Community

Tis the Season of GIVING 

As we approach the end of 2024 and think about what we’re grateful for, we hope you’ll consider the GWCS Foundation for any charitable gifts. Every contribution is tax deductible, and has a direct and immediate impact on each and every GW Community School student. Please click here if you would like to make a donation.

Reminder: Take a minute to check your company's matching gift program to see if your employer will match your donation and double your impact.

Thank you again for your generous support. We wish you all a happy and healthy holiday season! 

Andrea Spiegel on behalf of the GWCS Foundation Board

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Requesting Parent Support…

Turtle Care advice NEEDED

 We are desperately seeking a couple of parents to help advise us on turtle care. Ideally, this parent could come in once a week for just a few minutes and direct us on best practices, next steps, and how to improve our turtle habitat. PLEASE email Alexa if you can help. wardenac@gwcommunityschool.com

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Introducing Jira…

TECHNOLOGY ISSUES OR QUESTIONS?

CHARLEY IS HERE TO HELP!

 
 

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Charley Petty
GWCS Intern
pettyca@gwcommunityschool.com

https:/tinyurl.com/askcharley

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Weekly Song Recommendations…

with Amelia

Hello, this is Amelia Schmutz! I am a junior at GWCS, and I write this section of the WYNK on song recommendations. I hope you enjoy. Feel free to talk to me at school or email me your top recommendations and favorite songs for a future WYNK.

Email: amelias@gwcommunityschool.com

MY
RECOMMENDATION

“Come to Me” - Björk

Recently I have had the album “Debut” by Björk on a constant repeat. She has some of the most powerful vocals I have ever heard which seem to come so natural to her. When I first heard her music, it was like nothing I’ve ever heard before. It is as if her musical inspiration comes from a place that no one on earth does. One of the things that I love about Björk’s music is that she rarely uses guitar in her songs. Rather, she uses percussion, strings, and other electronic sounds.

“Come to Me” starts with soft, sensual vocals saying lyrics like “Come to me. /I'll take care of you. /Protect you.” This is accompanied by a punchy bass and shimmering strings. The verse breaks to the chorus to her belting in a soft yet powerful tone “You know that I adore you. /You know that I love you.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HiE8y3KeYsE

GWCS RECOMMENDATION

“Somewhere Only We Know” – Keane

Recommended by Jocelyn Adamoli (Charlie’s Mom)

“Somewhere Only We Know” feels like the climax of a movie where a person is longing for someone, and the couple finally gets together. Lead singer Tom Chaplin told The Guardian “My mum and dad ran a school, and we used to sit in the grounds as teenagers…hanging out. I always thought about that place when I sang the song.”

The song starts with an upbeat tune and is very piano driven. As the percussion builds to an emotional peak, Tom Chaplin’s vocals offer a melancholy plea for something just out of reach. “Oh, simple thing, where have you gone? /I’m getting old and I need something to rely on.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oextk-If8HQ

NEW RECOMMENDATION

“Still In Love” – Chezile

Chezile released the single “Still In Love” on December 6, 2024 and has an incredible story about his rise to fame. “Just a few months ago, I was homeless, moving from motels to Airbnbs.” After his song “Beanie” became a major hit, his life has radically changed.

“Still In Love” has calm beats with sweet vocals. While listening you will be transported to an etheral, beautiful place of love. His lyrics are so pure and make you feel safe. “I'm still in love with you. /Like a fool. /Was I not enough for you? /Is there something I can do?”

Chezile is definitley someone to keep on the radar.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=805a14VkZYo

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