Updates from GYSA
We are well into the second nine weeks marking period at this time. Please remember to monitor PowerSchool for grade updates and to help your student stay on top of any missing assignments. We will soon be ready for our 4.5 week assessments which will begin in the next two weeks. If you have any questions or concerns, our teachers are always happy to help. You may also reach out to Ms. Hill or Mrs. Williams via email or phone.
As we continue to work together, please remember to help your student come to school prepared each day with pencils, correct notebooks, and other supplies needed for the day. If you are able to donate any pencils to our teachers, we would be incredibly appreciative.
If you have not already done so, please view the GYSA Handbook and then sign THIS FORM to indicate your review and acceptance. Students who still needed to have this signed received a paper with information during the week of November 18. If you have questions about this, please email Catherine Kelly (cekelly@henrico.k12.va.us).
As we enter the holiday season, we want to take a moment to thank you for your partnership with us as we all work together to serve your students. Thank you for your continued support of the GYSA program!
Important Upcoming Dates:
December 5: Spelling Bee (during the school day)
December 6: 8th Grade Specialty Center Testing--Writing
December 9: 8th Grade Specialty Center Testing--Math
December 10-13: Specialty Center Testing Makeups
December 11: Band/Chorus Concert
December 12: Makeup Picture Day
December 18: Theater/Orchestra Concert
December 19: Curriculum Fair, 6-8PM
December 23-January 3: Winter Break
The Horror House: A Spooky Success at the School Harvest Ball
By Eva R., 8th Grade
As the school year progresses, one event stands out for its spine-tingling thrills and unforgettable fun—the annual Harvest Ball. This year, the highlight of the evening wasn’t just the costumes or the dance floor—it was the creation of the "Horror House," a haunted maze designed by middle school students that brought the true spirit of Halloween to life.
The Horror House was a labor of love, creativity, and a bit of fright. With the help of teachers and staff, students transformed a section of the school into a chilling, dark labyrinth of cobwebs, eerie sounds, and surprise scares. Some students contributed by creating creepy decorations, while others took on roles as ghosts, zombies, and ghouls, adding an extra element of fun and suspense. Together, they crafted a space that felt like stepping into a real-life horror movie—one where the only way out was to face the terror within.
What made the Horror House so special was not just its spookiness but its sense of teamwork and innovation. Each group of students put their unique talents into play, from art and design to acting and sound effects. It was a celebration of creativity and collaboration, proving that even middle schoolers can create something truly impressive when they work together.
The success of the Horror House wasn’t just in the scares, but in the smiles. As students emerged from the haunted maze—some laughing, some breathless, but all with memories to last—it was clear that this year’s Harvest Ball had raised the bar. It was a perfect blend of fright, fun, and school spirit, showing what can happen when students come together to create something unforgettable.
For next year, it will be hard to top the Horror House, but one thing is for sure: the Harvest Ball will be back, bigger and better, with even more haunted thrills!
If we can be of any assistance, please reach out! Please be sure to continue to read the Wilder communications that come out weekly from Mrs. Segar. We will be back at the end of November with our next update!
Linda Hill
GYSA Administrator
lahill@henrico.k12.va.us
Jane Williams|
GYSA Onsite Coordinator
jhwillia@henrico.k12.va.us