The 2025–2026 school year is off to a fantastic start at McGinnis Woods! From classroom projects and athletic wins to upcoming performances and family events, our students and teachers are diving into the year with energy and enthusiasm. Here are some of the highlights from the past few weeks.
You can view the full September/October newsletter here »
A Warm Welcome from Ms. Mary
We’ve wrapped up the first nine weeks of school and are enjoying the fall season together. Our students have already made wonderful progress both academically and socially. We are proud of the kindness, empathy, and curiosity they show each day. Thank you to our parents for your ongoing partnership—your support makes all the difference in creating a thriving school community.
Parent Association Kicks Off the Year
The Parent Association (PA) is off to an exciting start with fall events and special initiatives:
- Scene on the Green brought families together for bingo, food trucks, and a movie under the stars.
- Teacher Treat Days give our staff a sweet surprise as a thank-you for their hard work.
- The Wildcat Fund will launch soon, helping enhance our school with family-driven projects.
- All parents are members of the PA, and we invite you to join our monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of each month.
Sports Spotlight: Go Wildcats!
Our athletic teams are already making headlines this fall.
- Volleyball: The Lady Wildcats A-Team is off to a strong start with early wins, while the B-Team is gaining confidence and experience.
- Soccer: After last year’s runner-up finish, the team has opened this season with three big victories. Excitement is building as they head toward the playoffs!
Academic & Creative Highlights
- Project Showcase: Students in grades 1–4 are researching topics of their choice and will proudly present their displays in November.
- Word of the Month – Courage: This fall, we are recognizing students who show bravery, kindness, and determination.
- Drama Club: Rehearsals are underway for Beauty and the Beast Jr., which will take the stage this spring.
- Technology Fair: Our 5th–8th graders are preparing projects in robotics, animation, web design, and more for the November 5 fair.
Adventures & Field Trips
- 3rd Grade: Students traveled to Dahlonega’s Consolidated Gold Mine, where they toured underground tunnels and panned for gold.
- Middle School: Trips included ropes courses at Treetop Quest and history lessons at Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta.
Clubs & Enrichment
From Discovery Clubs like Slime Time, Chess, and Cooking to Science Olympiad and Robotics, students are exploring new passions and building skills beyond the classroom.
Preschool & PreK News
Our youngest preschool Wildcats kicked off the year with Pete the Cat as a learning companion! From fine motor skill activities to cupcake crafts, preschoolers are learning through creativity and play. Pre-K classes are thriving under the guidance of our dedicated teachers, who make every day fun and meaningful.
Life in the Middle School
Middle schoolers have been earning points in their House system, celebrating with ice cream socials, and diving into challenging coursework. The excitement is already high for who will take home this year’s Wildcat Cup!
Upcoming Events
- International Day: Sept. 26 at 9:30 am in the gym
- Fall Festival: October
- Parents Night Out: Oct. 24 – a Halloween-themed evening of fun for kids and a night out for parents
McGinnis Woods is full of life this fall! Thank you to our families, teachers, and students for making the start of this school year such a success. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to learn, grow, and celebrate together.

McGinnis Woods August 2025 Highlights: Learning, Adventure & Celebrations