Duke Update September 7, 2025
GHS Duke Family, we completed a successful 2nd week of school. We have met our goal to have all bus riders and parent drop-off students who arrive on time in the building and check points at least 2 minutes before the first bell starts! Great job to our administrators, security, SROs, and staff who manage morning procedures.
Starting Monday, September 29th, any student drivers arriving after 7:45 a.m. must enter through the new main entrance doors. The old main entrance doors will now close at 7:45 a.m. instead of 8:00 a.m.
Picture days for 9th-11th grade will take place during school on Monday 9/15 and Tuesday 9/16. The last opportunity for Senior portrait retakes will also take place on Monday 9/15. Please contact Ms. Schoenthal for additional information.
The first HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) Club meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 10th, after school in Room 236. The meeting will end by 3:45 p.m. Club dues can be paid through School Cash Online.
The International Thespian Society will hold its first meeting on Thursday September 11 from 3-4PM in the Black Box Theatre. Whether you are a seasoned performer or just getting interested in the stage, join us for theatrical fun and information about upcoming activities.
🎉 New Crochet Club Starting Soon! 🧶
Love to crochet or want to learn how? Join the brand-new Crochet Club! All skill levels are welcome—just bring your creativity and a willingness to learn! Our first meeting will take place September 22, We’ll meet after school in Room 138 after school from 2:45 until 3:45. Be on the lookout for more information, and contact Mrs. Fernandez with any questions. Come stitch, relax, and create with us! 🧵💫
If you are intellectually curious and looking for a fun and competitive outlet, come check out the Scholastic Bowl team. We will meet on Monday, September 8, after dismissal in the library from 3:00-5:00.
There will be a STEM Club meeting Thursday, September 11, after school until 3:30 in room 111. Those interested in joining the STEM Club should attend.
Thanks to everyone who came to the 1st interest meeting about Japan & South Korea. This will be a trip of a lifetime!! Open enrollment for the trip is available for those who’d like to sign up early for discounts. New QR codes to sign up will be available via Canvas & around the school; or see Ms. Falkenberg in Room 139 for a detailed brochure and more info on this incredible trip.
Don’t forget about Costa Rica & Panama this summer 2026; RSVP: Costa Rica-Panamá
https://www.eftours.com/tour-website/2814681HK
RSVP: Japan – South Korea
https://www.eftours.com/tour-website/2937646BX
GHS is also excited to offer a European travel opportunity to Germany, Italy and Switzerland over Spring Break 2027! We already have 23 signed up for this incredible opportunity to see some of Europe's greatest gems. There are ONLY 20 more spaces available and we're hoping one of those can be reserved for YOU!
If you're interested in learning more, RSVP to the informational meeting here: https://bit.ly/3UH4qxm
You can also reach out to the group leader directly, our German teacher, Mrs. Ballew in room 141 or via email: christina.ballew@gc.k12.va.us
The meeting will be on Thursday September 18 at 6:30pm in Mrs. Ballew's room 141. If you can't make the meeting in person, there will be a virtual option available! Just click the link above to get on the list!
Yearbooks are now available for pre-order on yearbookordercenter.com using code 4758.
Parking Passes are now available for all Seniors and Juniors. You must purchase your parking pass using School Cash Online. Print or take a screenshot of the receipt and bring that along with your completed application signed by your parent or guardian to the main office to pick your parking spot for the year.
Changes to school meals: School meals are not automatically free this school year for GCPS students. Free/Reduced Meal applications are available online and paper applications will be available in the GHS Main Office.
Demographics Form: All returning GCPS students received an email from PowerSchool with a link to update demographic and emergency contact information. Please be sure to log in and verify that all information is correct, and make any changes that are necessary. If you need any help with PowerSchool, or have any other questions, please call the GHS Main Office at (804)-693-2526.
Parent Drop-Off & Pick-Up Procedures: Parent drop-off and pick-up will remain the same as at the end of the 2024–2025 school year. Please use the main entrance loop before and after school for drop-off and pick-up. Follow the directions of our staff members as they guide traffic through the loop. Thank you for helping us keep arrival and dismissal safe and efficient!
Dress Code Reminder:
Hats, hoods, and head coverings should not be worn indoors.
Tops must cover the midriff and navel. Sleepwear, blankets and slippers are prohibited.
Parents, Thank you for helping us maintain a respectful and distraction-free learning environment. and your support in ensuring that students follow the GCPS dress code, which can be found on page 6 of the Code of Conduct.
Visitor Procedures: All visitors must:
Park in a designated visitor spot in the main entrance lot.
Enter through the main entrance and present valid identification to check in. Please do not park in the main loop for any reason. Thank you for helping us keep our campus safe and accessible.
Attention Parents/Guardians and Students:
This year:
All food and drinks must be finished before entering the school building in the mornings.
Students may not have food or beverages in the classroom (water bottles/containers are permitted).
Food delivery services will not be allowed during or after school.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Attention Seniors: The Senior Float Building Interest Meeting will be held on Monday, September 8th, immediately after school in the cafeteria from 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM. Please plan to attend!