IMPORTANT REMINDER!! 🚨
🥪🥗 LUNCH VISITOR ANNOUNCEMENT🥗🥪
As we move into the last month of school, with Milestone testing and end-of-year festivities with alternate schedules, this is a reminder that our last day for regular lunch visitors this year will be Friday, April 24th.
We look forward to welcoming family members to our upcoming Field Day (Friday, May 8th) and Awards Day programs.
Thank you!
🥪🥗 LUNCH VISITOR ANNOUNCEMENT🥗🥪
As we move into the last month of school, with Milestone testing and end-of-year festivities with alternate schedules, this is a reminder that our last day for regular lunch visitors this year will be Friday, April 24th.
We look forward to welcoming family members to our upcoming Field Day (Friday, May 8th) and Awards Day programs.
Thank you!

Belwood Elementary's operations depend on the dedicated work of Melisa Rodriguez and Amy Morris.
As the first point of contact for our guests, they set a welcoming tone each day. Beyond their visible roles, they manage numerous behind-the-scenes responsibilities that keep our school running effectively.
Their contributions are recognized and valued by our administration, faculty, and staff. We are so thankful for two people who truly care about our teachers, parents, and community!
We extend our heartfelt appreciation and admiration to them on Administrative Professionals Day!
As the first point of contact for our guests, they set a welcoming tone each day. Beyond their visible roles, they manage numerous behind-the-scenes responsibilities that keep our school running effectively.
Their contributions are recognized and valued by our administration, faculty, and staff. We are so thankful for two people who truly care about our teachers, parents, and community!
We extend our heartfelt appreciation and admiration to them on Administrative Professionals Day!

TONIGHT'S THE NIGHT!!
Come out this evening, Wednesday April 15th from 4 - 8 pm and help us raise funds to support our student ,teachers, and staff.
Make sure to check in when ordering with your favorite classroom The classroom with the most checkins will win a Milkshake party!!
Come out this evening, Wednesday April 15th from 4 - 8 pm and help us raise funds to support our student ,teachers, and staff.
Make sure to check in when ordering with your favorite classroom The classroom with the most checkins will win a Milkshake party!!


Georgia Milestones testing starts Tuesday, April 28th✏️📚
Please take a look at the testing schedule and help us set our students up for success.
Our 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students will be taking the Georgia Milestones state test.
It’s very important that students arrive on time/early each day—testing will begin promptly.
A good night’s rest and a healthy breakfast will help them do their very best!
We also want to remind our parents that once testing has begun, students cannot be checked out until the test session is complete.
We encourage all of our students to try their hardest and show what they’ve learned this year—we believe in you! ❤️
Let’s work together to help our students do their best🏆
📚 Georgia Milestones Testing 📚
Elementary School (Grades 3–5)
🗓️ Testing Dates
Tuesday, April 28: ELA Section 1
Wednesday, April 29: ELA Section 2
Thursday, April 30: ELA Section 3
Monday, May 4: Math Section 1
Tuesday, May 5: Math Section 2
Wednesday, May 6: Science (5th Grade Only)
May 7 - 13: Make-Up Days
📘 Fechas de los Exámenes Georgia Milestones
Escuelas Primarias
Martes, 28 de abril: (ELA) Sección 1 de lenguaje
Miércoles, 29 de abril: (ELA) Sección 2 de lenguaje
Jueves, 30 de abril: (ELA) Sección 3 de lenguaje
Lunes, 4 de mayo: Matemáticas Sección 1
Martes, 5 de mayo: Matemáticas Sección 2
Miercoles, 6 de Mayo: Ciencias (solo 5to grado)
Mayo 7-13 Exámenes de recuperación
✏️ Helpful Tips for Success
Get a good night’s sleep 🌙
Eat a healthy breakfast 🍎
Arrive at school on time ⏰
Do your best and stay positive 💪
🎉 We know our students will do an amazing job! 🎉
Please take a look at the testing schedule and help us set our students up for success.
Our 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students will be taking the Georgia Milestones state test.
It’s very important that students arrive on time/early each day—testing will begin promptly.
A good night’s rest and a healthy breakfast will help them do their very best!
We also want to remind our parents that once testing has begun, students cannot be checked out until the test session is complete.
We encourage all of our students to try their hardest and show what they’ve learned this year—we believe in you! ❤️
Let’s work together to help our students do their best🏆
📚 Georgia Milestones Testing 📚
Elementary School (Grades 3–5)
🗓️ Testing Dates
Tuesday, April 28: ELA Section 1
Wednesday, April 29: ELA Section 2
Thursday, April 30: ELA Section 3
Monday, May 4: Math Section 1
Tuesday, May 5: Math Section 2
Wednesday, May 6: Science (5th Grade Only)
May 7 - 13: Make-Up Days
📘 Fechas de los Exámenes Georgia Milestones
Escuelas Primarias
Martes, 28 de abril: (ELA) Sección 1 de lenguaje
Miércoles, 29 de abril: (ELA) Sección 2 de lenguaje
Jueves, 30 de abril: (ELA) Sección 3 de lenguaje
Lunes, 4 de mayo: Matemáticas Sección 1
Martes, 5 de mayo: Matemáticas Sección 2
Miercoles, 6 de Mayo: Ciencias (solo 5to grado)
Mayo 7-13 Exámenes de recuperación
✏️ Helpful Tips for Success
Get a good night’s sleep 🌙
Eat a healthy breakfast 🍎
Arrive at school on time ⏰
Do your best and stay positive 💪
🎉 We know our students will do an amazing job! 🎉


🥪🥗 LUNCH VISITOR ANNOUNCEMENT🥗🥪
As we move into the last month and a half of school, with Milestone testing and end-of-year festivities with alternate schedules, this is a reminder that our last day for regular lunch visitors this year will be Friday, April 24th.
We look forward to welcoming family members to our upcoming Field Day (Friday, May 8th) and Awards Day programs (to be announced soon). Thank you!
As we move into the last month and a half of school, with Milestone testing and end-of-year festivities with alternate schedules, this is a reminder that our last day for regular lunch visitors this year will be Friday, April 24th.
We look forward to welcoming family members to our upcoming Field Day (Friday, May 8th) and Awards Day programs (to be announced soon). Thank you!

If you have any upcoming kindergarten students, we are excited to invite you to our Kindergarten Orientation!
Join us on April 23, 2026, 8:15 AM for our Kindergarten Orientation! This parent-only meeting is a great opportunity to meet our kindergarten teachers, learn about the upcoming school year, and get answers to any questions you may have. We look forward to partnering with you as your child begins this exciting journey!
Join us on April 23, 2026, 8:15 AM for our Kindergarten Orientation! This parent-only meeting is a great opportunity to meet our kindergarten teachers, learn about the upcoming school year, and get answers to any questions you may have. We look forward to partnering with you as your child begins this exciting journey!

Mrs. Meghan Vess has long been a cornerstone of Belwood Elementary, first shaping young minds as a dedicated classroom teacher and later serving as our instructional lead teacher. Her journey into the role of assistant principal felt less like a transition and more like a natural next chapter—one that our entire school community eagerly championed. When the position became available, there was no question in the hearts of teachers and staff: we wanted someone who already knew, loved, and believed deeply in our students, our school, and our mission. Mrs. Vess was that person.
As an assistant principal, she leads with both heart and purpose. She sets high expectations for students and teachers alike, encouraging everyone to strive for excellence—not only in academics, but in character, growth, and the everyday work of learning and teaching. She has a way of inspiring others to rise to their best, while always offering support, encouragement, and a steady presence.
This past year brought two of the most life-changing milestones—stepping into her role as assistant principal and becoming a mother. With grace that seems almost effortless, Mrs. Vess has embraced both journeys, balancing leadership and motherhood with strength, compassion, and unwavering dedication.
We are incredibly proud to call Mrs. Meghan Vess our assistant principal. Belwood is blessed because of her, and we are grateful every day for the leadership, love, and light she brings to our school.
As an assistant principal, she leads with both heart and purpose. She sets high expectations for students and teachers alike, encouraging everyone to strive for excellence—not only in academics, but in character, growth, and the everyday work of learning and teaching. She has a way of inspiring others to rise to their best, while always offering support, encouragement, and a steady presence.
This past year brought two of the most life-changing milestones—stepping into her role as assistant principal and becoming a mother. With grace that seems almost effortless, Mrs. Vess has embraced both journeys, balancing leadership and motherhood with strength, compassion, and unwavering dedication.
We are incredibly proud to call Mrs. Meghan Vess our assistant principal. Belwood is blessed because of her, and we are grateful every day for the leadership, love, and light she brings to our school.

April is Child Abuse Prevention month and the blue pinwheel is the National symbol, representing the happy, healthy, and safe childhood every child deserves.
Every year we plant pinwheels to represent the children not only at Belwood Elementary School, but all children in our community and around the world.
Please enjoy the pinwheel garden planted by Belwood students this week!
Every year we plant pinwheels to represent the children not only at Belwood Elementary School, but all children in our community and around the world.
Please enjoy the pinwheel garden planted by Belwood students this week!




Reminder that Gordon County Schools will observe Spring Break from April 6 through April 10. Students will return to class on Monday, April 13.
We hope everyone enjoys a safe and restful break!
We hope everyone enjoys a safe and restful break!

Belwood Elementary School proudly celebrates Media Specialist Appreciation Day by recognizing the incredible contributions of Ms. Heather Balliew.
As the heart of our school’s media center, Heather goes above and beyond to create a welcoming, engaging, and resource-rich environment where students can explore, learn, and grow.
Heather’s passion for literacy and technology shines through in everything she does. From helping students discover their next favorite book to teaching them about the world around them and how it is connected to multiple forms of media, she plays a vital role in shaping lifelong learners.
Her creativity and dedication ensure that the media center is not just a place for books, but a hub of curiosity, innovation, and inspiration.
Teachers and staff greatly appreciate her positive attitude and commitment to student success! Ms. Balliew is making a lasting impact on our entire school community.
On this Media Specialist Appreciation Day, we thank Heather Balliew for her hard work, enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication.
Belwood Elementary is a better place because of her, and we are truly grateful for all she does.
As the heart of our school’s media center, Heather goes above and beyond to create a welcoming, engaging, and resource-rich environment where students can explore, learn, and grow.
Heather’s passion for literacy and technology shines through in everything she does. From helping students discover their next favorite book to teaching them about the world around them and how it is connected to multiple forms of media, she plays a vital role in shaping lifelong learners.
Her creativity and dedication ensure that the media center is not just a place for books, but a hub of curiosity, innovation, and inspiration.
Teachers and staff greatly appreciate her positive attitude and commitment to student success! Ms. Balliew is making a lasting impact on our entire school community.
On this Media Specialist Appreciation Day, we thank Heather Balliew for her hard work, enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication.
Belwood Elementary is a better place because of her, and we are truly grateful for all she does.
Attention all incoming 6th graders and families for the 2026–2027 school year!
Please join us for 6th Grade Parent Night on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Red Bud Middle School. The event will be held in the gym, starting at 5:30 PM.
This evening will provide important information about the upcoming school year, meet the staff, and answer any questions you may have. Don’t miss it!
Please join us for 6th Grade Parent Night on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Red Bud Middle School. The event will be held in the gym, starting at 5:30 PM.
This evening will provide important information about the upcoming school year, meet the staff, and answer any questions you may have. Don’t miss it!

We Value Your Feedback!
Thank you to everyone who has attended our face-to-face parent input with our Title I elementary and middle schools.
If you were not able to attend our recent in-person meetings, take advantage of this opportunity to provide input and suggestions on many important school documents for the 2026-2027 school year. This online feedback begins today and is open through April 15.
All Gordon County parents, families, school staff, students and community members, are invited to provide feedback on the following documents:
• School Improvement Plan
• School-Parent Compact
• Parent & Family Engagement Funds
• School Parent & Family Engagement Policy
• District Parent & Family Engagement Policy
• Consolidated LEA Improvement Plan
View the information and participate in the online survey here:
https://gordoncountyschoolsga.sites.thrillshare.com/page/parent-and-family-engagement-input
Thank you to everyone who has attended our face-to-face parent input with our Title I elementary and middle schools.
If you were not able to attend our recent in-person meetings, take advantage of this opportunity to provide input and suggestions on many important school documents for the 2026-2027 school year. This online feedback begins today and is open through April 15.
All Gordon County parents, families, school staff, students and community members, are invited to provide feedback on the following documents:
• School Improvement Plan
• School-Parent Compact
• Parent & Family Engagement Funds
• School Parent & Family Engagement Policy
• District Parent & Family Engagement Policy
• Consolidated LEA Improvement Plan
View the information and participate in the online survey here:
https://gordoncountyschoolsga.sites.thrillshare.com/page/parent-and-family-engagement-input

We were so excited to welcome Gordon Central High School Level 1 Education Students into our library this week! Each student planned a lesson that included a read aloud and activity with Mrs. Hyde’s 1st grade class! The students were engaged and loved being taught by high school students in small groups!

Today we're celebrating 🌟 Paraprofessional Appreciation Day and our hearts are absolutely full!
We want to give a huge shout-out to the incredible women who make our school run like a well-oiled machine and pour so much love into our students every single day.
Amanda Parker, Jami Patterson, Tammi Stephens, and Jenny Lowrance in Pre-K, Hannah Walker, Elisha Hall, and Charity Schild in Kindergarten, Gail Reece, Michelle Greeson, Natalie Williams, Jennifer Massey, and Shannon Baker in our ESS program, and Macy King in STEAM 🎨🚀 — you are the backbone of our school community, and we cannot thank you enough!
Your dedication, patience, and kindness don't go unnoticed.
Thank you for everything you do! 💛
We want to give a huge shout-out to the incredible women who make our school run like a well-oiled machine and pour so much love into our students every single day.
Amanda Parker, Jami Patterson, Tammi Stephens, and Jenny Lowrance in Pre-K, Hannah Walker, Elisha Hall, and Charity Schild in Kindergarten, Gail Reece, Michelle Greeson, Natalie Williams, Jennifer Massey, and Shannon Baker in our ESS program, and Macy King in STEAM 🎨🚀 — you are the backbone of our school community, and we cannot thank you enough!
Your dedication, patience, and kindness don't go unnoticed.
Thank you for everything you do! 💛

Ladies and Gentlemen, We have huge news!!!!
🌎 🌍 🌏 🌎 🌍 🌏 🌎 🌍 🌏 🌎 🌍 🌏 🌎 🌍 🌏
Presenting the 2026 Geography Bee Winners for the Gordon County Schools District!
🗺️ 🐝
Congratulations to Mr. Gilreath and this fabulous team of students!!
🌎 🌍 🌏 🌎 🌍 🌏 🌎 🌍 🌏 🌎 🌍 🌏 🌎 🌍 🌏
Presenting the 2026 Geography Bee Winners for the Gordon County Schools District!
🗺️ 🐝
Congratulations to Mr. Gilreath and this fabulous team of students!!

Today we celebrated our Belwood Elementary Students of the Month for March!
These students demonstrated the character word HUMILITY - putting others first by giving up what you think you deserve!
Congratulations to these outstanding students on this well-earned recognition.
Thank you to Chick-fil-A Calhoun for supporting character growth through the Core Essentials program!
Adriana Organista Garcia
Ken Newberry
Andie Hedges
Carlos Caldera Briseno
Chloe Johnson
Kamari Johnson
Dulier Ramirez Mendez
Jaylen Segura
Ava Cooper
Abraham Olivares-Orellana
Alayni Sanchez
Ayden Shepard
Micah Propper-Craig
Paisley Culvey
Kaycen Perry
Easton Bradley
Harper Fox
Diego Alezano
Sophia Waters
Arin Marquez Escobar
Genesis Baeza Almazan
Tue Tran Nguyen
MaKinsey Dodge
Leonel Cornejo
Zeilyn Johnson
Mason Ray
David Dickerson
Hollis Fox
Elisha Hight
Rylan Holden
Kase Gwin
Kroy Gwin
These students demonstrated the character word HUMILITY - putting others first by giving up what you think you deserve!
Congratulations to these outstanding students on this well-earned recognition.
Thank you to Chick-fil-A Calhoun for supporting character growth through the Core Essentials program!
Adriana Organista Garcia
Ken Newberry
Andie Hedges
Carlos Caldera Briseno
Chloe Johnson
Kamari Johnson
Dulier Ramirez Mendez
Jaylen Segura
Ava Cooper
Abraham Olivares-Orellana
Alayni Sanchez
Ayden Shepard
Micah Propper-Craig
Paisley Culvey
Kaycen Perry
Easton Bradley
Harper Fox
Diego Alezano
Sophia Waters
Arin Marquez Escobar
Genesis Baeza Almazan
Tue Tran Nguyen
MaKinsey Dodge
Leonel Cornejo
Zeilyn Johnson
Mason Ray
David Dickerson
Hollis Fox
Elisha Hight
Rylan Holden
Kase Gwin
Kroy Gwin

We Value Your Feedback!
Thank you to everyone who has attended our face-to-face parent input with our Title I elementary and middle schools.
If you were not able to attend our recent in-person meetings, take advantage of this opportunity to provide input and suggestions on many important school documents for the 2026-2027 school year. This online feedback begins today and is open through April 15.
All Gordon County parents, families, school staff, students and community members, are invited to provide feedback on the following documents:
• School Improvement Plan
• School-Parent Compact
• Parent & Family Engagement Funds
• School Parent & Family Engagement Policy
• District Parent & Family Engagement Policy
• Consolidated LEA Improvement Plan
View the information and participate in the online survey here:
https://gordoncountyschoolsga.sites.thrillshare.com/page/parent-and-family-engagement-input
Thank you to everyone who has attended our face-to-face parent input with our Title I elementary and middle schools.
If you were not able to attend our recent in-person meetings, take advantage of this opportunity to provide input and suggestions on many important school documents for the 2026-2027 school year. This online feedback begins today and is open through April 15.
All Gordon County parents, families, school staff, students and community members, are invited to provide feedback on the following documents:
• School Improvement Plan
• School-Parent Compact
• Parent & Family Engagement Funds
• School Parent & Family Engagement Policy
• District Parent & Family Engagement Policy
• Consolidated LEA Improvement Plan
View the information and participate in the online survey here:
https://gordoncountyschoolsga.sites.thrillshare.com/page/parent-and-family-engagement-input

Don't forget to order a yearbook by the March 31st deadline. We will order a limited number of extras, but they will be sold on a first come, first serve basis until we run out.
Yearbooks cost $30.00. You can send in a check or cash with the order form or order online at the Belwood E-Store https://gordoncountyga.schoolwindow.com/estore/bes.html
You can also use this link to order on the Belwood Pixami Yearbook site:
https://yearbooks2.pixami.com/BelwoodElementary/home3/Bookstore.jsp
Yearbooks cost $30.00. You can send in a check or cash with the order form or order online at the Belwood E-Store https://gordoncountyga.schoolwindow.com/estore/bes.html
You can also use this link to order on the Belwood Pixami Yearbook site:
https://yearbooks2.pixami.com/BelwoodElementary/home3/Bookstore.jsp

Our Belwood Glow Run Fundraiser kicks off TODAY, 3/25!
We are excited for two weeks of fun with your students! This year, we are partnering with Boosterthon to help our school raise $15,000 for New PE Equipment and a Rock Wall in the gym!
❗DO TODAY❗ — Register your student on mybooster.com (it's free & students earn a prize for registering) and start connecting to sponsors to donate to our school!
Each day during our fundraiser, students can earn individual prizes, class prizes, and nightly challenge rewards for getting donations. 🏆
👀🔍 Be on the lookout for communication on how YOU can support our school!
We are excited for two weeks of fun with your students! This year, we are partnering with Boosterthon to help our school raise $15,000 for New PE Equipment and a Rock Wall in the gym!
❗DO TODAY❗ — Register your student on mybooster.com (it's free & students earn a prize for registering) and start connecting to sponsors to donate to our school!
Each day during our fundraiser, students can earn individual prizes, class prizes, and nightly challenge rewards for getting donations. 🏆
👀🔍 Be on the lookout for communication on how YOU can support our school!

Spring Picture Day Tomorrow!!

