Belwood is blessed with the best faculty and staff who love their jobs and their students. They come each day to make a positive impact while making learning fun and creating a safe environment.
We will be posting pictures of each grade level.
Thank you to all the sponsors that have provided gifts, encouragement and food throughout the week - we will be posting their picture as well!
Here is our amazing Pre-K crew: Gayle Waycaster, Brandy Price, Becky Henson, Amanda Murry, Tammy Stephens, Amanda Parker, Gail Reece, Jennifer Massey, Jennifer Lowrance, Tammy Jackson, Melanie Davis and Jamie Patterson.
We will be posting pictures of each grade level.
Thank you to all the sponsors that have provided gifts, encouragement and food throughout the week - we will be posting their picture as well!
Here is our amazing Pre-K crew: Gayle Waycaster, Brandy Price, Becky Henson, Amanda Murry, Tammy Stephens, Amanda Parker, Gail Reece, Jennifer Massey, Jennifer Lowrance, Tammy Jackson, Melanie Davis and Jamie Patterson.

Red Bud Middle School Softball Try-outs coming SOON!
Please read RBMS softball information for any 5th grade girls that may be interested in trying out.
Please read RBMS softball information for any 5th grade girls that may be interested in trying out.


Belwood PTO recently made a purchase of Recess bags for each grade level. All grade level teachers were asked what that felt like their students would like to have in the bag to take to the playground.
Most bags consist of basketballs, footballs, soccer balls, jump ropes and frisbees. Lower building grades also asked for chalk and bubbles.
We hope all grades are enjoying their recess bags.
Belwood PTO would like to thank some of our partners in education, Mohawk Carpet, Sonic Calhoun, and Elnopal Calhoun for your continued support to make it possible for these great student incentives!!
Thank you also goes out to our parents, teachers and staff for participating in our monthly fundraisers with our local restaurants!!
Most bags consist of basketballs, footballs, soccer balls, jump ropes and frisbees. Lower building grades also asked for chalk and bubbles.
We hope all grades are enjoying their recess bags.
Belwood PTO would like to thank some of our partners in education, Mohawk Carpet, Sonic Calhoun, and Elnopal Calhoun for your continued support to make it possible for these great student incentives!!
Thank you also goes out to our parents, teachers and staff for participating in our monthly fundraisers with our local restaurants!!









Today we celebrate 🎉 National Principal's Day and the amazing leadership of Mr. Matt Fox at Belwood Elementary!
What makes Mr. Fox truly special? He's a Belwood alumnus himself, which means he understands our school community from the inside out. His dedication to high expectations has created a learning environment where both staff and students can flourish and grow together.
From his time as a student here through his continued connection to Gordon County Schools, Mr. Fox has shown us what it means to invest in a school with intention and heart 💙
We're grateful for his vision in making Belwood an exceptional place where learning and growth happen every single day!
What makes Mr. Fox truly special? He's a Belwood alumnus himself, which means he understands our school community from the inside out. His dedication to high expectations has created a learning environment where both staff and students can flourish and grow together.
From his time as a student here through his continued connection to Gordon County Schools, Mr. Fox has shown us what it means to invest in a school with intention and heart 💙
We're grateful for his vision in making Belwood an exceptional place where learning and growth happen every single day!

Happy School Principals Day! Today we celebrate and thank our incredible principals for their leadership, dedication, and commitment to supporting students, staff, and school communities every day.
Let's recognize these principals in Gordon County Schools!
Ashworth Middle School - Danny Lowrance
Belwood Elementary - Matt Fox
Fairmount Elementary - Rebecca Champion
Gordon County College & Career Academy - Leah Newsom
Gordon Central High School - Dr. Amy Parker
Red Bud Elementary - Debra Brock
Red Bud Middle School - Chad Moore
Sonoraville Elementary - Kelly Rampy
Sonoraville High School - Amy Stewart
Tolbert Elementary - Dr. Rebecca Owen
W.L. Swain Elementary - Tara Green
#ExtraordinaryGCS
Let's recognize these principals in Gordon County Schools!
Ashworth Middle School - Danny Lowrance
Belwood Elementary - Matt Fox
Fairmount Elementary - Rebecca Champion
Gordon County College & Career Academy - Leah Newsom
Gordon Central High School - Dr. Amy Parker
Red Bud Elementary - Debra Brock
Red Bud Middle School - Chad Moore
Sonoraville Elementary - Kelly Rampy
Sonoraville High School - Amy Stewart
Tolbert Elementary - Dr. Rebecca Owen
W.L. Swain Elementary - Tara Green
#ExtraordinaryGCS

Who is ready for a 2 day STEM Camp?!?
Gordon Central High School will be hosting a camp for students who will be in kindergarten through fifth grade for the 2026- 2027 school year!
This camp will take place May 28th and 29th, 2026.
A variety of interactive games and experiments will take place from 8:30 AM to 11:30 PM. The cost is $50 per student and. You may contact Kalbright@gcbe.org or scan the QR code on the flyer for more information.
Gordon Central High School will be hosting a camp for students who will be in kindergarten through fifth grade for the 2026- 2027 school year!
This camp will take place May 28th and 29th, 2026.
A variety of interactive games and experiments will take place from 8:30 AM to 11:30 PM. The cost is $50 per student and. You may contact Kalbright@gcbe.org or scan the QR code on the flyer for more information.

Come join us tonight form 5-9 for Elnopal Spirit Night!!! Lets make this one the BESt yet!!
Nothing better than a Rainy Taco Tuesday and raising funds for your Belwood PTO.
10% of all sales will be donated to Belwood PTO to help with student, teacher and staff incentives.
Nothing better than a Rainy Taco Tuesday and raising funds for your Belwood PTO.
10% of all sales will be donated to Belwood PTO to help with student, teacher and staff incentives.


Big Announcement!
Ashworth Middle School Softball Try Out Information!
🥎 Softball tryouts will be on May 5th and 6th, at 3:45 to 5:30.
📍We will meet at the AMS Cafeteria.
📝 You must have a physical on file and RankOne information completed. Scan the QR code for the physical forms and RankOne information.
👟 All players must come properly equipped for the tryouts. Cleats, Tennis Shoes(just in case we have to go inside), Glove, Bat, Mask, Helmet, etc.
🚗 Players will need to be picked up at the AMS softball field at the conclusion of tryouts each day.
Ashworth Middle School Softball Try Out Information!
🥎 Softball tryouts will be on May 5th and 6th, at 3:45 to 5:30.
📍We will meet at the AMS Cafeteria.
📝 You must have a physical on file and RankOne information completed. Scan the QR code for the physical forms and RankOne information.
👟 All players must come properly equipped for the tryouts. Cleats, Tennis Shoes(just in case we have to go inside), Glove, Bat, Mask, Helmet, etc.
🚗 Players will need to be picked up at the AMS softball field at the conclusion of tryouts each day.

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

