Dear Ram Fam community,

It’s hard to believe we’ve arrived at the final full month of the 2024–2025 school year. As we step into May, I find myself reflecting on the incredible growth, achievements, and energy that have defined our year together. April, in particular, was filled with moments that made us proud to be part of the Gorham Middle School community. Our Odyssey of the Mind teams shined at their competitions, showcasing their imagination, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in ways that impressed judges and inspired peers. Their success is a direct reflection of their hard work and the support of dedicated coaches and families. Our spring musical, Tuck Everlasting, was another unforgettable highlight. Students poured their hearts into every performance, delivering a show full of emotion, humor, and professionalism. From the talented cast to the hardworking crew, the production was a true team effort—And of course, our 6th-grade students enjoyed one of their most anticipated experiences of the year during our annual Try-It Day! It was a joy to watch them explore new interests, try out unfamiliar activities, and embrace the spirit of curiosity and adventure that we hope defines their middle school journey.

As we look toward the final stretch of the school year, there is still so much to look forward to. In this month’s newsletter, you’ll find important information about the exciting events and experiences that will take us through to June. We’ll be sharing more details about our upcoming STEAM Night, which will offer hands-on learning opportunities for students and families, and will celebrate the innovative thinking we continue to cultivate here at GMS. You’ll also find ways to help us recognize and thank our dedicated educators during National Teacher Appreciation Week. Our teachers work tirelessly each day to create engaging, supportive, and meaningful learning experiences for our students, and your appreciation means more than you know. Thank you, as always, for your continued partnership and support—it’s what helps our school thrive. Let’s make the most of these final weeks and celebrate all that we’ve accomplished together!

NATIONAL TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK

Next week marks National Teacher Appreciation Week, and we’re excited to celebrate the incredible educators who make Gorham Middle School such a special place for our students. Our teachers go above and beyond every day to support learning, build relationships, and create a safe and inclusive environment. Please consider taking a moment to send a quick note of appreciation to a teacher who has made a difference in your child’s life. A kind word goes a long way! I encourage everyone to take five minutes to write a note of appreciation to a GMS teacher to help us celebrate all that they do, day in and day out! Link to Form to give a GMS teacher a shoutout: Teacher Appreciation Week Shoutout

NATIONAL SCHOOL NURSE APPRECIATION DAY

Wednesday, May 7th, is National School Nurse Appreciation Day, and we want to give a special shout-out to Nurse Alicia for her calm, caring presence and unwavering dedication to our students. From managing daily health needs to responding to unexpected situations, she plays a vital role in keeping our school safe and healthy. Thank you, Nurse Alicia, for everything that you do!

SPRING CONCERTS

Our spring concerts are right around the corner! The GMS Band will perform on Wednesday, May 8th, and the Chorus will take the stage on Wednesday, May 15th. Both concerts will begin at 6:00 PM in the GMS auditorium. These performances showcase months of hard work, dedication, and talent, and we’re proud to give our student musicians the spotlight they deserve. Come out and support our incredible music programs!

END-OF-YEAR TESTING

End-of-year assessments are coming up in May, and we appreciate your support in helping students prepare and arrive rested and ready. Our 8th graders will take the Maine Educational Assessment (MEA) in science on May 15th. All students (6th-8th grade) will participate in the Math NWEA on May 19–20 and the Reading NWEA on May 22–23. These assessments help us measure growth and guide instruction moving forward. Please encourage your child to do their best—we’re proud of how far they’ve come!

TEAM & TEACHER REQUEST PROCESS FOR 25-26 (LINK TO DOCUMENT)

GUIDING PRINCIPLES:

• Team placements are made with academic, social, and logistical considerations in mind.

• Changes will only be made for significant academic, social-emotional, or logistical reasons, not personal preferences.

• Requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Timeline for Team Change Requests

1. Pre-Step-Up Day (Team Placement Process) – April-May

• Teams are created based on a balance of academic needs, special education services, social dynamics, and class sizes.

• Input is gathered from teachers, counselors, and administrators to ensure thoughtful placement.

• Parent requests regarding any concerns they have or considerations they would like us to make regarding placements must be submitted before May 15. Each request will be considered, but not guaranteed.

2. Team Change Request Window (Post Step-Up Day)

• The team change request window will occur after step-up day until the last school day of the year.

• Families may submit a Team Change Request Form (link will be provided)

• Requests must clearly state a valid reason, such as:

  • Academic support needs (IEP/504 alignment)

  • Social-emotional concerns 

  • Past relationship dynamics

  • Family/sibling considerations

• At this time, any requests based on friend groups or teacher preferences will not be considered. Any requests made based on friendship or teacher preference must be made before May 15th.

3. Administrative Review – Post-Step Up Day - July 30th

• Requests are reviewed by a team (principal, assistant principal, school counselors, social workers, and grade-level team leaders).

• Decisions are based on team balance, student needs, and overall fairness.

• All decisions of requests that are submitted after step-up day will be communicated the week before school starts to allow the team enough time to review all requests.

REQUIRED VACCINATIONS FOR RISING 7TH GRADERS

As part of the State of Maine's school enrollment requirements, all students entering 7th grade must receive the following vaccinations, in addition to any previously required vaccines:

• 1 Tdap 

• 1 Meningococcal Conjugate (MCV4)

• 2 doses of the Varicella (Chickenpox) vaccine

Please make sure your student has received these vaccines before the start of 7th grade to ensure they are in compliance with state requirements.