GBE Happenings 12.17.25

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students reading a book together

Fourth-grade student reading with her kindergarten buddy during today's morning meeting.


Have a wonderful winter break

As we look ahead to the start of our time off next week, we wanted to stop and take a moment to wish everyone a safe and restful break. From the GBE family to yours, have a wonderful winter break!


Calendar Reminders 

  • Monday, December 22, to Friday, January 2  - NO SCHOOL 
winter break

Winter Break (Student Holiday)

As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 22, to Friday, January 2. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year.

GBE Office Hours: The GBE office will also be closed Monday, December 22, to Friday, January 2.

Classes resume on Monday, January 5, 2026See the complete school year calendar.


💡Spotlight on Specials: STEAM with Ms. Green

students using small robot car

For the past two weeks, GBE students have had fun doing various coding activities in order to celebrate Computer Science Education Week.

2nd grade students worked on Computer Science standards by learning how to create and sequence code to solve a problem. Using the Indi Car robot, students planned, tested, and revised their code to move the robot through a specific task. Through hands-on exploration, they practiced logical thinking, problem-solving, and perseverance as they debugged and improved their programs. This activity helped students understand how code gives instructions to technology and how careful planning leads to successful outcomes.


⛄ Winter Resources for Families

A list of resources has been compiled for students and families in case they or someone they know needs assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources page for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

Even If School Is Closed, Learning Can Continue!

We encourage students to take advantage of fun learning opportunities during the upcoming winter break and on snow days. Consider these winter activities to blend education and play at home.


Winter Break Literacy Adventures

Engaging in literacy activities over winter break helps students maintain the reading, writing, and speaking skills they built during the first half of the school year. Even a little daily practice, such as these 10 fun family activities, helps ensure they return to school confident and ready to continue growing in literacy. Enjoy these literacy adventures as a family!


PTA News & Notes

PTA wants to hear from you!

pta survey

Open through December 31, the mid‑year survey is available to everyone at GBE. The survey helps the PTA gather feedback on their performance and identify opportunities for further engagement and impact!


 PTA Membership 

PTA Membership

PTA membership has reached new amazing levels at GBE with over 280 of you proudly investing in the PTA to help make events bigger, the impact in the classroom larger and GBE shine brighter. Join the PTA today!