Principal's Message - 03.22.2026

Husky picture

Hello Gilbert H. Hood Families,

 

As we start Trimester 3 tomorrow, we are looking forward to a busy, productive few months ahead.  Please join us in supporting our students as they finish the school year strong, keeping them focused on successful learning goals and positive community behavior.  Together, we can do amazing things!

 

 

Lift-ups:

 

•Lift up to the cast, crew, and directors of  theWest Running Brook Intermediate School Drama Club.  GHH was pleased to host their successful performances of  Willy Wonka Jr. in our gymnasium this weekend.  Well done!

 

Some important information and reminders for the upcoming weeks:

 

 

If your child is absent

 

Reminder: It’s important for our records that you notify the office if your child is absent.  You can report absences by calling us or sending an email to this address:   ghhms-attendance@sau10.org  

 

Wear Colorful, Mismatched Socks - March 23

 

Staff and Students: In honor of World Down Syndrome Day, we invite you to join us in celebrating this important day by wearing  colorful, mismatched socks on Monday, March 23. This simple act is a fun and meaningful way to show support and raise awareness for individuals with Down syndrome. Let's make this day vibrant and full of support! 

 

One School One Book - Continues this week

 

We are finishing up our school-wide reading of Because of Mr. Terupt .  With themes of kindness, forgiveness, empathy, and personal responsibility, this book has provided for some great discussions throughout our school community.  We look forward to assemblies on April 3 where students will have the opportunity to hear directly from the author. 

 

Trimester 3 begins - March 23

 

Reminder: Trimester 3 begins on Monday, March 23.  Trimester 2 Report Cards will be posted to Power School on March 31 at 3:00 pm.

 

Freshman Field Day - Pinkerton Class of 2030 - August 11 (flyer)

 

Mark your calendars! Students who plan to attend Pinkerton Academy in the fall should plan to attend their Freshman Field Day on August 11.  This event will include the following:

  • Meet teachers

  • Pick up student Chromebook and student ID

  • Enjoy ice cream in the Freshman Cafe

  • Explore the campus through guided tours

  • Join in team-building activities and have fun

Additional details and important information are provided on this flyer: 2026 Field Day Flyer - Class of 2030

 

2026-2027 School Calender Approved:

 

The DCSD School Board recently approved the calendar for 2026-2027. Please see HERE to view the calendar.

 

Upcoming Dates:

 

  • March 2-26: One School One Book project

  • March 23: First day of Trimester 3

  • March 23: World Down Syndrome Day - Wear colorful, mismatched socks

  • March 23: Winter Sports Awards Night, 6:00-7:30 in the gym

  • March 24: Staff vs. Students Basketball game, 2:00

  • March 24: Derry School Board Meeting, Derry Municipal Center, 6:30

  • March 26: Drama Club Awards Night, 6:00-7:00 in the dining hall

  • March 31: Trimester 2 Report Cards available through PowerSchool

  • April 3: Author Assemblies

  • April 14: PTSA Meeting, 6:00

  • April 14: Derry School Board Meeting, Derry Municipal Center, 6:30

  • April 16: GHH Talent Show, 6:00-8:00 in the gym, $5 admission

  • April 20: State assessment (NHSAS) begins

  • April 27-May 1: No School  - Spring Recess

 

**To keep up to date on the daily happenings at GHH, be sure to check our daily announcements that are posted on our school website under the “Resources” tab.   The  Morning Meeting Notices spreadsheet is constantly updated and available for reference.

 

 

 


 

 

 

On-Going Reminders

 

 

Remote Learning Information:

 

Please see HERE for information regarding DCSD’s Remote Learning Plan.

 

Morning Car Drop Off - We need your help

 

For the safety of everyone, follow these procedures if you are driving in the morning car rider line behind the building:

  • Wait to drop off your child(ren) until you are in the  drop-off zone and signalled by a staff member .  The drop-off zone is between the crosswalk near the dining hall doors (Door 16) to the corner of the building.  

  • Do not proceed or bypass vehicles where students are exiting a vehicle and approaching the sidewalk.

  • Throughout the process, drive slowly  and cautiously.  (Sometimes the actions of middle school students can be unpredictable!)

The safety of our students, staff, and families must remain our top priority.  Thank you for your attention to this matter.

 

Annual Information Update

 

If you have not already done so for this school year, please complete your child's Annual Information Update through PowerSchool.   This must be done every year for ALL NEW and RETURNING STUDENTS.  Here is a link to the PowerSchool Parent Portal sign in page:   https://sau10.powerschool.com/public/home.html Please call the office if you have questions or need assistance: 603-432-1224.

 

Afterschool Enrichment Program 

 

The Gilbert H. Hood Middle School Afterschool Enrichment program is a FREE program that runs September 2, 2025 to May 28, 2026 every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday from 2 to 5:30 pm . Students enrolled in this program are expected to attend 3 days a week. Students can ALSO attend any clubs or sports offered at the school. Further details are provided on the attached flyer.  The program is FUN, keeps students safe, provides engaging activities, and positive social interactions with a long-term goal of increased community engagement. To register:  https://bit.ly/AfterschoolEnrichment

 

Afterschool Clubs & Activities

 

Students should pay attention to the announcements during Morning Meeting to get information about clubs they may be interested in joining.  These daily announcements are also posted on our school website under the “Resources” tab.   The  Morning Meeting Notices spreadsheet is constantly updated and available for reference.

 

Derry Cooperative School District Free & Reduced Lunch Application

 

We invite you to watch this informative video regarding filling out the free and reduced lunch application:   https://youtu.be/V6Y8kMqapgc

 

Community Resources for Derry Families