What end-of-year activities are planned for students?
For 8th graders, the end of the year will be full of exciting activities!
“Eighth graders have a Sunsplash trip, an Awards Ceremony, a Promotion Dance, and then lastly, the Promotion Ceremony!” – Mrs. Hargis
When and where will these activities take place?
“The Sunsplash trip will, of course, take place at Sunsplash in Roseville on Monday, June 2nd. The Awards Ceremony will take place on the morning of Tuesday, June 3rd, in the gym. On the evening of Wednesday, June 4th, 8th graders will have their Promotion Dance, also in the gym. The culminating event for 8th graders is when they walk the stage at the Promotion Ceremony on the morning of Thursday, June 5th. The Promotion Ceremony takes place here at GEMS on the blacktop outside of Building E (the new building).” – Mrs. Hargis
Will these events be mandatory or optional?
Eighth graders can choose whether or not to attend the Sunsplash trip or the Promotion Dance.
“While this makes them optional, I always encourage all 8th graders to attend all of the activities because it’s some of the last times everyone will be together as a class before moving on to high school. Participate and make those fun memories!” – Mrs. Hargis
Is there a schedule or calendar available for all the events?
Yes! A schedule/calendar will be sent to parents via ParentSquare. Be on the lookout for the “Save the Dates” flyer to help keep track of upcoming activities and events.
Are there any requirements to participate in the events?
Yes, there are both academic and behavior requirements.
“Eighth graders really need to ‘lock in’ to participate in the end-of-year (EOY) events. Students cannot get in trouble during the last 7 weeks of school, or they risk losing the opportunity to participate.
Additionally, in order to walk the stage at the Promotion Ceremony, 8th graders must meet the following academic requirements:
Pass ELA with a C or higher
Pass Math with a C or higher
Maintain an overall 2.0 GPA, which includes all classes.” – Mrs. Hargis
Is there a cost for any of the events? If so, how much?
“Sunsplash costs $45 and the Promotion Dance costs $15. Permission slips will be sent home with students on Tuesday, April 1st. All permission slips and payments must be turned in to the office by Wednesday, April 9th.” – Mrs. Hargis
What are the school’s behavior expectations during these events?
Students are expected to follow the 3 Ps and demonstrate good behavior at all times.
“These activities are meant to be exciting, fun, and memorable, but students represent themselves and GEMS during these events. It’s important to show your best behavior and make good choices.
Especially for 8th graders—you don’t want to make poor choices and risk not being able to walk in the Promotion Ceremony.” – Mrs. Hargis
Who can students talk to if they have additional questions about these activities?
“Students can talk to me (Miss Hargis) or to Mrs. Freymond, our amazing school secretary.
Mrs. Freymond does a TON of work behind the scenes to make all of the EOY activities possible for our students. Be sure to thank her when you see her—we couldn’t pull off these events without her organization, time, and support!” – Mrs. Hargis
Are there any ways students can help organize or contribute to the events?
“If any surveys are sent out to students asking for input on EOY activities, etc., then students should definitely make sure to take them. Other than that, all of the events are really organized by the teachers, Mrs. Freymond, and the approval of Mrs. Fernandez.” – Mrs. Hargis
