Join us for virtual college and financial aid events, Tuesday evenings starting January 20. The College Planning Series will cover important college and financial aid topics with professionals and live Q & A. The events are free for MN students and families. Interpreters are available in Hmong, Spanish, Somali. Visit bit.ly/CollegePlanningSeries for more information and to register.

Happy New Year! The GFW Community Bus is back in action this month on Fridays with free clothing, household items, hygiene products, and more.
Find the bus:
- 1st Friday - Downtown Fairfax from 8-10 a.m.
- 2nd Friday - Downtown Gibbon from 8-10 a.m.
- 3rd Friday - GFW MS/HS in Winthrop from 8-10 a.m.
- Last Friday - GFW MS/HS in Winthrop from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Find the bus:
- 1st Friday - Downtown Fairfax from 8-10 a.m.
- 2nd Friday - Downtown Gibbon from 8-10 a.m.
- 3rd Friday - GFW MS/HS in Winthrop from 8-10 a.m.
- Last Friday - GFW MS/HS in Winthrop from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Students in ninth grade were working in collaborative groups in Mrs. Oliveros' classroom to identify figurative language, theme, and the perspective and tone of the author within a text.




GFW Elementary students did a fantastic job at their rescheduled winter concert last night!
Before the break, Middle School and High School staff were able to take a tour of the new building as they prepare to transition to their new spaces in February. They are excited!



Before the break, students at GFW Middle School and High School were participating in a school-wide tournament of Rock, Paper, Scissors and the heavily favored competitor was Mr. Wasmund who was on a roll! Students are encouraged to practice their technique to be able to take his throne in 2026.


Is there anything better than recess in the snow?



Alright, let's try this again!
Winter Break is here, with no school from Monday, Dec. 22 through Friday, Jan. 2 for students. Friday, Jan. 2 is a Staff Development Day and students will return on Monday, Jan. 5. Have a great break!
You can also get the updated 2025-26 calendar here: https://aptg.co/39HR1C


How about a little throwback to halloween to celebrate the last school day of 2025?

GFW Schools will have an E-Learning Day on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025

The gym in the new building is getting a little Firebird flourish!


We love seeing smiles and creativity in the classroom!

At GFW Elementary School, students in fourth and fifth grade are serving as Junior coaches at recess. They organize games for younger students, and keep an eye on things to make sure everyone is having a fun time together,
Read the story for more: https://www.gfwschools.org/article/2603894
Read the story for more: https://www.gfwschools.org/article/2603894


Students and staff at GFW Middle School and High School have begun preparations for the door decorating contest! There will be one winner from middle school grades and one from high school. The fanciest and most festive winners will be announced during Friday's student of the month celebration and will even get donuts.




Looking for a great activity for kids 3 years old- kindergarten and first through third grade?
Elementary Volleyball Camp is coming up and is open to all! This is an opportunity to learn the fundamental skills of the game of basketball and build an energy and excitement for the game.
This program will be led by members of the GFW HS coaching staff and supported by players in grades 9-12.
Registration is due Jan. 11!
https://aptg.co/Z4dMNY
Elementary Volleyball Camp is coming up and is open to all! This is an opportunity to learn the fundamental skills of the game of basketball and build an energy and excitement for the game.
This program will be led by members of the GFW HS coaching staff and supported by players in grades 9-12.
Registration is due Jan. 11!
https://aptg.co/Z4dMNY

Looking for a great activity for kids 3 years old- kindergarten and first through third grade?
Elementary Basketball Camp is coming up and is open to all! This is an opportunity to learn the fundamental skills of the game of basketball and build an energy and excitement for the game.
This program will be led by members of the GFW HS coaching staff and supported by players in grades 9-12.
Registration is due Jan. 11!
https://aptg.co/Nf2fBL
Elementary Basketball Camp is coming up and is open to all! This is an opportunity to learn the fundamental skills of the game of basketball and build an energy and excitement for the game.
This program will be led by members of the GFW HS coaching staff and supported by players in grades 9-12.
Registration is due Jan. 11!
https://aptg.co/Nf2fBL

Check out the awesome segment from KEYC feature GFW Teacher Sharon Fossum and the incredible Spirit of the Season program. Congratulations on the well-deserved Golden Apple recognition!
https://www.keyc.com/2025/12/11/golden-apple-winner-sharon-fossom/
https://www.keyc.com/2025/12/11/golden-apple-winner-sharon-fossom/

The GFW Strategic Planning Survey closes on December 13. Find how you can get involved and share your thoughts!
https://www.gfwschools.org/article/2566361
https://www.gfwschools.org/article/2566361

This fall, we are offering several 55+ Driver Discount Programs! These are renewal classes for those that have already taken the eight-hour course. The next class offered will be on Wednesday, Dec. 17 from 9 a.m -1 p.m at the GFW Elementary School in Gibbon.
For more information and to pre-register and prepay St. Cloud MHSRC/55+ Driver Discount Program, please call 1-888-234-1294 or register online by going to www.mnsafetycenter.org.
Persons aged 55 and older who complete the course will qualify for an approximate 10% discount on their auto insurance premiums for three years, according to Minnesota Law.
For more information and to pre-register and prepay St. Cloud MHSRC/55+ Driver Discount Program, please call 1-888-234-1294 or register online by going to www.mnsafetycenter.org.
Persons aged 55 and older who complete the course will qualify for an approximate 10% discount on their auto insurance premiums for three years, according to Minnesota Law.

In third grade, to encourage positive behavior, paraprofessionals draw a student’s name each day and observe their actions during recess and lunch. Students recognized for demonstrating responsibility and kindness receive a blue Positive Behavior slip and enjoy a special seat at the high table at the end of the week. This week, we recognize Ruby, Madison, Miss Erica, Paislee, and Alex. Way to go!

