In this issue:

Communicate with our School via Rooms

2025-2026 Student Absences Policy and Procedures

Mandatory April Testing Schedule, Attendance Requirement for Prom, and Prizes!

AP and IB Exam Schedule

Reminder Regarding Fees for Lost and Damaged Chromebooks

P/SAT Practice Sessions at GWHS

After School P/SAT Prep Sessions with City Year

Check for AP and IB Exam Conflicts

Prom Requirements and Updates

Seniors: Spring Pep Rally Recognition and Athletic Honor Cords

Seniors: DSF Scholarship Application Now Open

Summer School Registration

Free Lunch for Students

Student Opportunities List

Donations Needed for P/SAT Testing

Proctor an AP or IB Exam

Show Your GWHS Staff Some Love!

Restaurant Fundraiser for GWHS

After Prom Amazon Wishlist

After Prom Donations: Help Make "Midnight Rodeo" a Success

District Accountability Committee Application Open

GWHS Landscape Committee Update

GWHS Food Pantry Usage

Spirit Wear

Weekly Athletics Update

Click Here for This Week's Athletics Events

Click Here for GWHS's Bell Schedule

April 8

CMAS Science (all grade 11 students; regular odd-block day schedule for grades 9, 10 and 12)

April 13

SAT (all grade 11 students; no school for grades 9, 10 or 12)

April 14

PSAT 9 and PSAT 10 (all grade 9 and 10 students; no school for grades 11 or 12)

May 1

Professional Learning Day/No School for Students

Communicate with our School via Rooms

Denver Public Schools has transitioned to a communications platform called Thrillshare for all its communications, which works with the NEW, free DPS app! This means teachers, staff and coaches are now able to message (SMS or email) families directly, or through the DPS app! To facilitate the smoothest communication possible with our school and your student's teachers, be sure to follow these easy steps:

• Download the FREE Denver Public Schools (DPS) app (available from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store).

• Click "Rooms" at the center bottom of your screen.

• Enter your email or phone number that you provided when you registered your student for school in Parent Portal, and choose to sign in with a one-time access code.

• You will receive a one-time access code to the email or phone number you just entered.

You should now be connected with all Rooms to which your student has been added!

 

2025-2026 Student Absences Policy and Procedures

New for the 2025-2026 school year, all student absences will be reported using the online attendance tool in your Parent Portal. Instructions for how to enter a student absence notification through Parent Portal can be found here in ENGLISH, SPANISH and ARABIC. Please review the entire GWHS Attendance Policy HERE. The GWHS Attendance Policy contains important information regarding attendance requirements, interventions for chronic absenteeism, and more. Please note, any request for an early student dismissal after 3:00pm but before the end of the school day cannot be processed.

 

ASSESSMENT – Mandatory April Testing Schedule, Attendance Requirement for Prom, and Prizes! 

All students in grades 9 through 11 are required by Colorado Department of Education to complete annual assessments for state and federal accountability. Our testing schedule is as follows:

** On Wednesday, April 8, all grade 11 students are required to take CMAS Science. There will be a regular Wednesday odd-block day schedule for students in grades 9, 10 and 12. Grade 11 students will be dismissed for the day after completing CMAS Science and their SAT Digital Readiness Check. Grade 11 students received their CMAS Science room assignments and other testing details in an email to their @dpsk12.net email accounts on Wednesday, March 25.

** On Monday, April 13, all grade 11 students are required to take the SAT. There will be no school for grades 9, 10 or 12.

** On Tuesday, April 14, all grade 9 students are required to take PSAT 9, and all grade 10 students are required to take PSAT 10. There will be no school for grades 11 or 12.

All students received their P/SAT room assignments and other testing details in an email to their @dpsk12.net email accounts on Monday, April 6.

Starting Tuesday, March 3, please note the following attendance and assessment participation requirements to attend Prom:

** All grade 10 students who are invited by a grade 11 or 12 student to attend Prom must have at least 90% attendance, and must attend the PSAT 10 primary test day.

** All grade 11 students must have at least 90% attendance, and must attend CMAS Science and the SAT primary test days.

** All grade 12 student must have no more than four (4) unexcused classes.

If you do not want your student to participate in these assessments, you must complete an opt-out through Parent Portal. Instructions are here in ENGLISH, SPANISH and ARABIC.

Because we are proud of the hard work our students put in to these assessments, we want to celebrate them with giveaways and food! On April 13 and 14, students who are testing should arrive early to enjoy a special breakfast. Each testing room will have prizes to give away (gift cards, small toys and more), and there will be prizes awarded each day! Grand prizes include a Nintendo Switch 2+: Mario Kart World Bundle, a 4K Drone with Camera, a $250 GOAT gift certificate, and AirPods Pro (two pairs per grade level)! Mark your calendars now, and be sure not to miss your testing day!

 

AP and IB Exam Schedule

Check the AP and IB exam schedule HERE for any conflicts between AP and IB exams. Keep in mind IB will not move exams except for medical emergency. Questions about IB exams? Contact IB Coordinator Mr. Hildner at thad_hildner@dpsk12.net. Questions about AP exams? Contact Dr. Bolz at joseph_bolz@dpsk12.net or AJ Romero at amanda_romero@dpsk12.net. 

 

Reminder Regarding Fees for Lost and Damaged Chromebooks

Please review the charges for lost and damaged MyTech equipment. As a reminder, the MyTech agreement is part of the initial student registration packet. Please note there are no fees for accidental damage, but Mr. Embleton should be notified of any accidental damage immediately at dale_embleton@dpsk12.net. Review the MyTech agreements with associated fees in ENGLISH and SPANISH.

P/SAT Practice Sessions at GWHS

Level Up Your P/SAT Prep! GWHS will be offering P/SAT practice sessions during lunch in room 137. Come on Wednesday, April 8 and Thursday, April 9 to prepare right before test day! Bring your lunch, bring a friend, and pop in for small-group or one-on-one PSAT test prep support. All skill and grade levels welcome — we’d love to see you there! Questions? Contact Ms. McFarland at Najah_McFarland@dpsk12.net or Mr. Arellano at Mario_Arellano@dpsk12.net.

 

After School P/SAT Prep Sessions with City Year

Every Tuesday until P/SAT testing on Monday, April 13 and Tuesday, April 14, City Year will be hosting P/SAT prep sessions in room 317 after school. The tips and tricks you learn in these sessions can help you improve your scores, and remain applicable to assessments beyond your high school career. For more information, visit room 317 after school or during lunch. City Year is excited to see you after school on Tuesdays!

 

Check for AP and IB Exam Conflicts

The deadline to adjust your registration for AP exams is quickly approaching. If you have a conflict with your AP exam because of other testing (other AP or IB exams), you need to let Dr. Bolz know as soon as possible so you can be registered for the late AP exam (there are no late IB exams offered). Please contact Dr. Bolz at joseph_bolz@dpsk12.net if you need a late AP exam!

 

Prom Requirements and Updates

If you are attending Prom, there is a Prom Attendance Form that must be completed in order to receive your ticket. Students will not be permitted into Prom without a physical ticket, and tickets will not be permitted without this form being completed showing you have met ALL of the requirements to attend. This form will be available after Spring Break. Copies can be found in the main office, Schoology, and HERE. 

Requirements to attend Prom:

** Attended mandatory class meeting

** Attend your primary test day for CMAS Science (grade 11 on Wednesday, April 8) and SAT (grade 11 on Monday, April 13), or PSAT 10 (grade 10 students invited to Prom on Tuesday, April 14)

** Meeting the 90% attendance rate beginning March 3

** Completed all years of ICAP in Student Portal

** Completed credit recovery courses (if applicable)

** Passing all spring semester courses as of May 4 (no exceptions or refunds on tickets)

** Fees have been paid in full

** Students must provide Prom ticket proof of purchase voucher from MySchoolBucks

Prom will be at the Denver Aquarium inside the ballroom near the lounge from 7:00 to 11:00pm (doors close at 9:00pm and there is no re-entry). Students will have access to the entire aquarium until 10:00pm. Prom attendees will be given a specific wristband upon entry; only those with that wristband will be admitted into the ballroom or allowed in the building after hours. Violation of this may result in a trespassing ticket. Parking is free with the parking code located on your ticket. Guest forms for GWHS students in grade 10 or guests outside of GWHS will be available after Spring Break and are due no later than Wednesday, May 6 by 2:30pm. Copies can be found in the main office, Schoology, and HERE. 

Denver Aquarium is offering a special discounted meal for Prom attendees, see the menu HERE. 

 

Seniors - Spring Pep Rally Recognition and Athletic Honor Cords

Seniors, if you are planning to sign to play sports at the next level, we want to celebrate your accomplishment! Please complete this FORM so we can ensure you are properly recognized on Friday, April 24 during our Spring Sports Pep Assembly.
 
Second, if you believe you qualify for an Athletic Honor Cord, please submit your application using this FORM.

 

Seniors - DSF Scholarship Application Now Open

The DSF scholarship application is now open for graduating seniors! Don't wait - click HERE to create an account and submit your application. 

Annual award amounts based on full-time enrollment:

** 4-year college or university: $3,600 per year
** Community college: $1,700 per year
** Technical college: $1,700 per year

Eligibility requirements: 

DPS: Students must have attended a DPS high school for all four consecutive years unless they transferred from out of state or out of the country while still in high school.

GPA: Final cumulative GPA (weighted or unweighted, whichever is higher) requirements: 
** 4-year college or university -- 2.75 GPA
** Community college -- 2.5 GPA
** Technical college -- 2.0 GPA

ENROLL: Full-time enrollment at one of our 30 college partners in Colorado 

FINANCIAL NEED: Students must have a Student Aid Index (SAI) of $16,640 or less on the FAFSA or CASFA. Please note that $16,640 is 2.5x higher than the SAI cutoff to qualify for a federal Pell Grant! So be sure to check your SAI as the DSF scholarship does NOT require Pell eligibility 

COMPLETE: Submit a completed application no later than Friday, May 1 and complete all financial aid requirements at your college of choice before July 15.

RESIDENCY: Students must also meet their college's Colorado residency requirements for in-state tuition and state aid

Please note that the DSF scholarship does NOT require an essay! However, students must demonstrate that they have submitted at least two other scholarship applications. On the Future Center Schoology course, we maintain a very thorough scholarship database that is updated weekly (open the folder called "Scholarships" and then search through the "Weekly Scholarship Highlight" folder organized by week. 

Don't wait! Apply today! Click HERE for more information.

 

Summer School Registration

Sign up for summer school to get back on track to graduate. Click HERE for more info.

 

Free Lunch for Students

Students, remember to stop by the Cafeteria for free lunch! All students can enjoy meals made daily from scratch, delicious baked goods and over ten options of different entrees to choose from. Every Thursday, enjoy Domino's Pizza (five flavors to choose from). If you prefer something light, try our fresh salads that are made daily. You can take the salad as-is or build your own, with four different protein options to choose from. Each meal also includes unlimited fresh fruits and vegetables. The lunch line moves quickly to get you in and out fast. See you in the Cafeteria soon!

 

Student Opportunities List

Students, be sure to check this LIST regularly to discover some of the great opportunities available to you! These opportunities may include summer programs, scholarships, internships and much more. Participating in programs like these can help you build skills, explore careers, strengthen your college applications, and earn money or scholarships. Check back often as new opportunities are added throughout the year!

Donations Needed for P/SAT Testing

One tradition we hold here at GWHS is to support our students with their state-required P/SATs by providing a breakfast before the exam, snacks during testing, and prizes for each room to distribute to students who are working hard! Here's where we need your help - we would love donations! Those can include:

** Breakfast items donated for our morning "grab and go" each day
** Snacks for testing classrooms (please consider packs of around 30 as most testing rooms are around 30 students)
** Small prizes we can give to students (e.g., candy, fidget toys, rubber ducks, and whatever your student thinks would be a great small prize!)
** Donations made through MySchoolBucks by clicking HERE.  

For any donations you want to send in to the school, we ask that you get those in before Wednesday, April 8. Please address them to Dr. Bolz in room 321.

 

Proctor an AP or IB Exam

GWHS has over 600 students taking AP and IB exams from Tuesday, April 28 through Friday, May 22, and we need your help with proctoring! Sign up HERE to proctor an AP or IB exam. You may select any exam your student is NOT taking. Proctor training is easy, and your support is deeply appreciated! 

 

Show Your GWHS Staff Some Love!

The PTSO is raising money for end-of-year gifts for all staff—teachers, counselors, admin, and support—who make a difference in our kids' lives. Plus, every $1 you donate gets DOUBLED thanks to a generous matching program! That means your $20 gift becomes $40 or your $100 becomes $200! All donations are tax-deductible and receipts can be obtained by emailing gwhs.patriotscare@gmail.com. Send your donation via Venmo @GWPC-Be-Inspired or Zelle using gwhs.patriotscare@gmail.com and note that it is for staff appreciation. Let's show our gratitude to our amazing staff!

 

Restaurant Fundraiser for GWHS

On Wednesday, April 15 from 5:00 to 8:00pm there is a GWHS Fundraiser happening at three different locations partnering with Boulevard One restaurants! The participating locations are as follows: 

SNARF’S SANDWICHES
7111 E LOWRY BLVD

TORCHY’S TACOS
63 N QUEBEC ST

DENVER BEER CO
7070 E LOWRY BLVD

Click HERE for more info!

 

After Prom Amazon Wishlist

We are officially hard at work at prepping for this year’s After Prom celebration! Our goal is to create a safe, fun, and unforgettable night for our students, and we would love your help to get us there. We have curated an After Prom Wishlist through Amazon, with specific items needed to bring our vision to life. If you are able, please consider purchasing an item to be sent directly to our planning committee. Every contribution, big or small, makes a huge difference! And stay tuned - we will be sharing more ways to get involved and volunteer opportunities very soon. Thank you for supporting our students!

After Prom Donations: Help Make "Midnight Rodeo" a Success

To make this year's After Prom an unforgettable night for our students, we need your help! We are currently collecting donations for our "Midnight Rodeo" event on Saturday, May 9 and are looking for the following:

** Gift Cards: We are seeking $5–$15 gift cards to local favorites (coffee shops, fast food, etc.) to use as prizes throughout the night.

** Snacks: We need a variety of refreshments to keep the energy high.

** "Buy a Share" Items: Check the sign-up for opportunities to contribute toward larger event essentials.

Whether you can drop off a gift card, a box of snacks, or "buy a share" of a larger item, every contribution helps create a fantastic experience for the kids. Sign up to donate HERE. 

 

District Accountability Committee Application Open

The District Accountability Committee is accepting applications for members who will serve from August 2026 through June 2028. Parents, business owners, and community members across DPS are encouraged to apply. The DAC advises the Board of Education on the district budget, improvement plans, charter school applications, family engagement, and other key decisions.

Details:

Deadline: Friday, April 10

Apply here

The DAC meets in person on the third Tuesday of each month (August–May).

Why serve?

• Share recommendations directly with the Board.
• Gain insight into district initiatives.
• Collaborate with others who care about public education.

Questions? Email denverdac@gmail.com.

 

GWHS Landscape Committee Update

Get ready to get your hands dirty — it's GO GREEN DAY!
** Saturday, May 2 • 8:00am to 1:00pm
** GWHS Community Garden (up the hill from the South Parking Lot)
What’s happening:
** Dig, plant, and mulch — make the grounds glow!
** Meet friends, swap laughs, and build something awesome together
** Pizza lunch to reward your hard work
** Rain, snow, or shine — dress for the weather and comfy shoes. Bring gloves if you have them. Can’t wait to dig in!

Act today and become a part of GWHS's future! Leave a lasting legacy by purchasing a personalized tree plaque or brick dedication HERE! Your contribution not only honors your connection to GWHS but also supports the Landscape Committee in enhancing the beauty of our school's grounds.

Questions? Want to join or simply help? Contact Barb DeSarro at bwdesarro@hotmail.com.

 

GWHS Food Pantry Usage

The GWHS Food Pantry provides FREE food and hygiene items for students, faculty, and staff.

• When: Every Wednesday, 3:30pm

• Where: GWHS Sub Basement Room 003

• Bring: Your own reusable bags, if you have them

You will not be required to pay, put in volunteer hours, attend service, or participate in any type of program to receive food. The GWHS Food Pantry does not to engage in discrimination, in the provision of service against a person because of race, color, citizenship, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, unfavorable discharge from the military, or status as a protected veteran. All clients will be treated with the utmost respect and courtesy. Questions? Contact gwhs.food.pantry@gmail.com.

 

Spirit Wear

Don't forget to purchase your Patriots spirit wear for the spring sports season! Click HERE to see all the amazing clothing and gear on offer. Show off your school pride!

 

Weekly Athletics Update

Patriots excel in the classroom and on the field! Click HERE to read our Weekly Athletics Update.