Principal's Message

I hope this communication finds you and your family enjoying the summer and staying well. As we prepare for the start of a new school year, I want to officially welcome you to the 2025–2026 school year at Godwin Heights Middle School. Our first day of school is Monday, August 18th, and we are excited to welcome our students back!

As I enter my 12th year serving the Godwin Heights community, as both a middle school teacher and principal, I remain deeply committed to the growth, success, and well-being of every student who walks through our doors. This year, we continue building on the work we began last year by focusing on CHANGE—a powerful call to action and a framework that guides everything we do:

 

Commitment to Growth
Honoring Every Voice
Action-Oriented Learning
Nurturing Community
Goal-Driven Instruction
Equity at the Center

 

Each piece of this acronym reflects our belief that we are not here to maintain the status quo—but to evolve, to lead with purpose, and to do so together. Whether in classrooms, hallways, or collaborative spaces, we all contribute to shaping a better future for our students. We will continue our work with clarity, courage, and an unwavering belief in what’s possible.

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Middle School Orientation – Monday, August 5, 2025

6th Grade Orientation: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
This event is designed to help our incoming 6th grade students feel confident and comfortable as they make the big leap into middle school. Student ambassadors from 7th and 8th grade will be available to help with lockers, finding classrooms, and sharing their own tips for success. This is an open-house-style event, and parents/guardians are encouraged to attend.

During the orientation, families can:

• Pick up student schedules

• Get school pictures taken (used for ID cards and yearbook)

• Practice locker combinations

• Tour the building

• Meet community resource partners

• Connect with staff and support services

7th and 8th Grade Orientation: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Returning students and families are also encouraged to attend to pick up schedules, take pictures, and prepare for the new year.

Please note: Chromebooks will not be distributed at orientation. We are enhancing how we teach students about the use and care of technology prior to sending devices home.

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Chromebook Distribution and Technology Expectations

All students will be assigned a school-owned Chromebook for the 2025–2026 school year.

• 7th and 8th grade students will receive their Chromebooks during the first week of school.

• 6th grade students will use Chromebooks during the school day but will not bring them home until October, after completing a series of digital citizenship and care lessons.

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Middle School Office Hours & Contact Info

Monday – Friday | 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Main Office Phone: 616-252-2070

 

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Daily Schedule & Logistics

• Start Time: 7:30 AM

• Dismissal Time: 2:35 PM

• Drop-Off: Students may enter the building at 7:00 AM to eat a free, hot breakfast.

• Dismissal: Students must exit the building at 2:35 PM unless scheduled to meet with a teacher.

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Breakfast & Lunch

All students will continue to receive free breakfast and lunch thanks to federal and state programs. Meals are served daily in our cafeteria. Please ensure students arrive by 7:00 AM if they plan to eat breakfast at school.

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Student and Community Supports

Godwin Heights Middle School is proud to partner with a wide range of community organizations to support the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. Many of our partners will be present at orientation to offer resources and opportunities for families.

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As always, the education, safety, and success of your child is our top priority. If you have any questions or need support, please do not hesitate to reach out. We look forward to a year of CHANGE—growth, innovation, and connection—as we continue to create an environment where all students can thrive.

 

Warmly,

 

Kimberly Urbanski
Principal, Godwin Heights Middle School
[email protected]