
In Focus @ GWA
A news bulletin for the families of George Walton Academy

January 25, 2024
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Email: info@gwa.com
Website: www.gwa.com
Phone: (678) 635-3800
Key Deadlines & Dates
- SAIS Survey Deadline: Fri., Jan. 26 (see email for link)
- Red Cross Blood Drive: Fri., Jan. 26
- New Gym Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: Wed., Jan. 31 @ 10 a.m.
- Admissions Open House: Sun., Feb. 4 @ 2 p.m.
- Winter Sports Senior Night: Thurs., Feb. 8
- MS Dance: Fri., Feb. 9, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., cafeteria
- Spring Sports Photo Day: Tues., Feb. 13
- Winter Break: Feb. 16 - 19
- K3 - K5 Musical Performance: Fri., Feb. 23 @ 9 a.m.
Michael Mealor is Student of the Month
Michael Mealor has been chosen as Rotary Student of the Month for December. He has selected Collin Dibble as Teacher of the Month. Michael has been named to the Head of School list and Best of the Best (for GPA and All-State competition) throughout high school. He is an accomplished musician (tuba) and a member of the GWA marching and concert bands. Michael serves as the leader for the low brass section of the band as well as band co-president. He is a member of the GWA boys’ quartet and has competed in Literary since ninth grade. As a junior, Michael was selected for the Governor’s Honors Program, studying music with a distinction in tuba. He is also an active member of National Honor Society, Glee Club and Junior Classical League. Michael will attend the University of Georgia and he plans to major in chemistry. Congratulations to Michael and Dr. Dibble!
Reese Behnke is Student of the Month
Reese Behnke has been chosen as Rotary Student of the Month for January. She has selected Alex Callaway as Teacher of the Month. Reese has been named to the Head of School list and Honor Roll. She participates in Youth Leadership Walton and serves as a GWA student ambassador. Reese is an active member of National Honor Society (vice president), Beta Club, Student Council, Gavel Club, Interact Club, Junior Classical League, and Bible Club. She volunteers through her club affiliations, both on campus and in the community. Reese has participated in varsity sports throughout high school including volleyball, lacrosse and track and field. Reese will head to Auburn University in the fall, and she plans to pursue a degree in nursing. Congratulations to Reese and Mrs. Callaway!
Digital Age
By Melissa Page
Upper School students in the Winter Term Digital Citizenship CLE learned about how digital media affects social and mental well-being, the various privacy conflicts that arise through digital media and data tracking, and the ever-changing landscape of legal and ethical issues surrounding digital media and technology. They also examined some positive ways that students and individuals use social media to connect with colleges and careers, and how to develop a positive digital image that reflects personal interests and goals. Using social media influencers and popular YouTube videos as examples, students learned to analyze how some influencers are more successful than others and how savvy content creators use Artificial Intelligence (AI technology) and misinformation. Students then practiced strategies like lateral reading and critical thinking to become more discerning consumers of digital information.
Into the Wild
By Denise Schieders
Our third-grade students embarked on a memorable field trip to the Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary. Led by knowledgeable guides, they dove into the fascinating world of animals, gaining valuable insights into habitats, prey and predators, and the classification of various species.
During the tour, students were captivated by the diverse array of wildlife at the sanctuary. From majestic birds to elusive mammals, the experience was a treasure trove of knowledge. Zoey Slatten, one of our curious learners, shared her excitement, saying, "I have chosen to research the grizzly bear after we were able to feed Winston. He was so cute, and I want to learn more about bears like him."
Inspired by their firsthand encounters, our budding researchers will channel this newfound knowledge into crafting nonfiction animal papers. The field trip not only enhanced their understanding of the animal kingdom but also sparked a passion for wildlife conservation which ties to our pollution and conservation unit in science.
But the adventure didn't end there! As part of their exploration, students engaged in gem mining, uncovering hidden treasures beneath the earth. This hands-on experience allowed them to review the world of rocks and minerals, connecting classroom lessons to the real world.
Our third graders returned with not just a wealth of knowledge but also with a sense of wonder and excitement for the natural world. We look forward to seeing the amazing nonfiction animal papers that will undoubtedly showcase the depth of their understanding and the joy of their experience at the Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary adventure.
Get Your Gala Tickets Before They Are Gone!
2024 Lucky Dawg Gala & Benefit Auction individual & table tickets have officially gone on sale. There are a limited number of tickets available, and they have sold out quickly each year — so go ahead and secure yours while you can. We are excited for an evening of celebration in support of our amazing students, school & community! CLICK HERE for tickets.
The George Walton Academy Lucky Dawg Gala & Benefit Auction this year will take place on:
Saturday, March 9, 2024
Beginning at 6 p.m.
at the Factory at Walton Mill
Monroe, GA
Whether you plan to attend the actual event or not, each year we host a public Silent Auction for our entire GWA community during the two weeks prior to the Gala, culminating on the night of the event. As we finalize all of the items, experiences, and packages to be included, we're asking: do you have something special you'd be generously willing to donate for our silent auction?
Whether you own a business, have a personal talent or have items you'd be willing to include, all donations are appreciated — in fact, we love creative and unique ideas.
Our soft deadline for silent auction donations is Friday, February 9. We've received some great items thus far, which we'll begin promoting in the coming weeks. Thanks for your consideration!
CLICK HERE to donate to our Silent Auction!
Questions? Contact Jeanie Beach at jbeach@gwa.com.
Upcoming Open House
We are excited to welcome more great prospective families to campus on Sunday, Feb. 4 at 2 p.m. We will begin with a general presentation/information session followed by campus tours. Please help us spread the word!
GWA Virtuosos!
GWA is proud to announce our GMEA (Georgia Music Educators Association) All-State Band musicians for 2024. They are in the top 1% of middle/high school band students in the state of Georgia! The Georgia All-State Band event will be held from February 29 - March 2 at the Classic Center in Athens, GA. Congratulations to:
- Senior Nicole Volk on Clarinet for her 5th time making the All-State Band
- Sophomore Isaac Osei on Tuba and his 4th time making the All-State Band and 1st Chair in the State
- Sophomore Kade Franklin on Trombone and his 2nd time making the All-State Band
- Sophomore Wendy Menard on French Horn and her 2nd time making the All-State Band
Nine talented GWA musicians were selected by the University of Georgia to attend this year’s Janfest Honor Band on Jan. 19. Congrats to the following students:
Michael Mealor
Ella Smith
Nicole Volk
Blakeney Sewell
Isaac Osei
Kade Franklin
Wendy Menard
Maddie Garrett
Jon Terpstra
3D Designs
Artists in Mrs. Good's fourth-grade art class are taking inspiration from Tiffany Louis Comfort and creating 3D lamp sculptures in the style of his famous Tiffany lamps. Students used watercolor techniques and wax resist to create the lamp shades. Then they used recycled materials to construct a sturdy, three-dimensional base for their lamp shade to rest on. Artists were encouraged to take inspiration from living things and nature when designing their shades. Their finished works look amazing!
Spreading Kindness
During advisory this week, middle and upper school students engaged in “Acts of Kindness” in honor of the Great Kindness Challenge. Some classes were paired with lower school classrooms and engaged in fun activities such as reading a kindness story, playing math games, or having fun in PE. The goal was to foster being a positive role model, connection, and community. Other classes wrote thank you notes, delivered hearts around campus, and tried to brighten each other’s morning. Our students rose to the challenge!
Study Skills Take 2!
We will be starting up study skills sessions again for second semester. This is open to any 8th-11th grade student who wants an extra place to study, a group to study with, and tips to help make studying more effective.
- Who: 8th - 11th Grade
- Where: Middle School - Mrs. Byrd's Room, Upper School - Mrs. Crabtree's Room
- When: Tuesdays during break
If you are interested in having your student join, please reach out to Amber Thomason athomason@gwa.com.
Heading into the Post-Season!
Congrats to our middle school basketball teams on their wins over Westminster on Monday night! Both teams head to Oglethorpe today for round one of playoffs (4:30 & 5:30 p.m.). Go Bulldogs!
Today's In Focus is proudly sponsored by Blue Ice Events. (www.blueiceevents.com).