Volume 11, Issue 8
May/June 2016
Published by Gaither High School, a Hillsborough County Public School, and Gaither PTSA
Dear Parents and Students,
The 2015-16 school year is winding down. There are
several important, upcoming assessments remaining, such
as end-of-course exams, advanced placement testing, and
final exams. We have concluded FSA testing and thank
our entire faculty and staff for their efforts to oversee a
smooth administration. Our teachers did an outstanding job preparing our 9th and
10th graders and I thank our students for their academic focus. It is imperative that
students continue to come to school on time each day, academically focused, and
ready to work hard until the last day of school on June 10.
In celebrating high academic achievement, it is an honor to congratulate the
members of the Class of 2016 Honor Circle: Benjamin Bui (Valedictorian),
Michael WIlson (Salutatorian), Brian Tran, Daniela Torres, Morgan Prezzano,
Madison Dallas, Gabrielle Dallas, Michelle Tomlinson, Amanda Fernandes,
Adriana Formby-Fernandez, Bethy Gomez.
These seniors represent the highest grade point averages in the class! Their
pictures are on display in the school’s main hall and will remain there through next
school year. Our Honor Circle Program was recently conducted to honor them and
their families. Congratulations, Cowboys, for demonstrating academic excellence!
During the first week of May, Advanced Placement testing begins. These tests
provide students the opportunity to earn credit towards college (level 3 or higher
achievement). Thank you for encouraging your AP student to do his/her very best
on these important assessments. These assessments are also administered at an off
campus location. If you have transportation concerns, please contact your student’s
guidance counselor immediately. If you would like more information on AP
offerings at Gaither High School, please feel free to review our website or contact
your student’s guidance counselor. Research shows that students who participate
in AP coursework are more prepared for college.
Parents, it is important for all students to maintain an academic focus through the
remainder of the school year. Students will be completing, end of course exams,
Advanced Placement exams and final exams through May and June. Again, the
support and encouragement you provide to your student to perform to his/her very
best is greatly appreciated.
Our Baccalaureate ceremony for the Class of 2016 and their families will be held
on Sunday, May 22nd at 2:00PM in the auditorium. All graduates should attend in
cap and gown and plan to arrive by 1:30 p.m. This is a non-denominational,
uplifting ceremony with music, some encouraging words by our guest speaker, and
should last about one hour. Please join us!
Graduation is quickly approaching! Graduation day will be held on Monday, June
6th at 9:00 AM at the Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall. All seniors are
expected to attend the mandatory graduation rehearsal on Tuesday, May 31 at 1:00
PM at the same venue. Rehearsal ensures seniors know what is expected on the
Principal’s Letter continued on page 3
Contents
On the Cover
From the Principal’s Desk
Gaither Roundup Information ..................................... 2
A Word or Two from the PTSA ................................. 4
PTSA Volunteer Note ................................................. 5
Birthday Marquee ....................................................... 5
Guidance News ........................................................ 6-8
Chorus News ............................................................... 9
Vocal Music Boosters App ........................................10
GHS Orchestra ...........................................................11
NJROTC News .................................................... 12-13
Theatre News .............................................................13
Band News .................................................................14
Band Boosters App .............................................. 15-16
Web Addresses Galore...............................................17
Senior Class Timeline ................................................18
2016 Graduation Details ............................................18
Senate Updates...........................................................19
Business Technology News .......................................19
Sports in the News .....................................................20
Athletic Booster Club ................................................21
2015-2016 School Calendar.......................................22
2015-2016 Calendario del Estudiante .......................23
2016-2017 School Calendar.......................................24
2016-2017 Calendario del Estudiante .......................25
Splash Bash................................................................26
Cowboy Closet...........................................................26
PTSA Scholarship ......................................................26
Splash Bash Application Forms ........................... 27-30
PTSA Membership Form ...........................................31
PTSA Volunteer Form ...............................................32
Yearbook Info & Order Forms ..................................33
Dates to Remember ....................................................34
Gaither Roundup
The Gaither Roundup is a publication of
Gaither High School and Gaither PTSA.
It is published in 8 issues: August/September,
October, November, December/January,
February, March, April, and May/June.
The deadline for submission is the 5th
of the month prior to publication date.
Submissions should be e-mailed to
[email protected]
Principal: Thomas Morrill
PTSA President: Stephanie Woychowski
Editor: Susan Raabe
Staff Consultant: Greg Lewandowski
Please Note
Gaither High School
Gaither PTSA
16200 N. Dale Mabry
Tampa, FL 33618
813.975.7340
PTSA Office 813.975.7340 ext. 330
The Gaither Roundup newsletter is available
only online. You may find issues on the Gaither
PTSA website at www.GaitherPTSA.org as well
as on the Gaither High School website at
www.gaither.mysdhc.org/newsletters Only the
first issue of each school year, August/
September, is printed and mailed to the families
of students. If you would like a paper copy of
other issues of the newsletter you may pick one
up in the main office.
http://gaither.mysdhc.org
www.GaitherPTSA.org
2
Principal’s Letter continued from page 1
day of graduation. Seniors who do not participate in the rehearsal will not be allowed to participate in
graduation. Seniors should have secured their appropriate cap and gown through Herff Jones by now. Please
see Mrs. Woods, APA, if you have any questions or concerns.
Senior Day is Friday, May 27 and is a fun day dedicated to our seniors with a great presentation in the
auditorium by several organizations, then food and games at the stadium field and courts.
Underclassman exams begin Monday, June 6 (period 6 exam from 9:00-11:00AM, dismissal at 11:00AM;
students will attend period 1 from 7:30-8:05AM, attendance from 8:05-8:10AM, then Period 2 from 8:158:55AM) through Friday, June 10 with a dismissal time of 11:35AM from Tuesday through Thursday, with
two exams being held each day. The last day of school is FRIDAY, JUNE 10 (one exam, Period 5, from 7:309:30AM, dismissal at 9:30AM)
I want to personally thank all of our volunteers who give so much of their valuable time helping our students
and staff members. It has been a pleasure to meet and work with you all this year. Students, don't forget to read
over the summer and make sure that you have a copy of the summer reading (see your English teacher) list so
you are prepared for your assignments when you return to school after summer vacation.
Have a safe and wonderful summer break!
Go Cowboys!
Thomas Morrill
Thomas D. Morrill, Principal
Gaither High School (Class of 1987)
"Commitment to Excellence"
Phone (813) 975-7340, extension 204
3
Hello Gaither Families,
It is hard to believe that this is the final newsletter for the 2015-16 school year!
Amazing how quickly the year has gone. Because of our wonderful parent and
grandparent volunteers, we have been able to provide many programs for our
students and teachers this year. Your commitment to Gaither High School is what
makes it all possible! But don’t think everything is done…some of our biggest
events are still to come!
Our next event will be Teacher Appreciation week, May 2-6, that wraps up with our Teacher Appreciation
luncheon on May 6th. The Gaither PTSA knows how important our teachers are and we greatly value the time
and effort they put forth for our students. We are still requesting that any Gaither parent or family member
that would like to either donate gift cards or be willing to solicit area businesses for donations to please contact
us at [email protected]. We want to show our teachers just how important they are to us!
Also, our Volunteer breakfast and final general PTSA meeting will be held on Friday, May 6th, at 8am. We
encourage all PTSA members to attend as we will be introducing our new board members for the 2016-17
school year, along with a wonderful breakfast provided for everyone.
Our Senior Achievement Banquet, (by invitation), will be May 11th at 7:00pm. We are hoping to have parents
of underclass students to help with this event so that our senior parents can enjoy the evening with their child.
The year will culminate with Senior Field Day on May 27th and our annual end of the year event called Splash
Bash, to be held on June 6th at Adventure Island. These final two events are heavily attended and we will
need many volunteers, so watch your email for these requests!
Finally, I want to take this opportunity to say how honored I have been to serve as your Gaither High School
PTSA President and how much I value each one of you. An organization is only as strong as its volunteers,
and I know that we have the best group of parents/grandparents, dedicated to making our students have the
most rewarding high school experiences as possible. Your time is NEVER wasted when you give of yourself
to help someone else and I truly appreciate everyone who did that this year!
Best Regards,
Stephanie Woychowski
Gaither H.S. PTSA President
PTSA
Genera
l
Meeting
May 6th
!
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.GaitherPTSA.org
4
Volunteers
THANK YOU, PTSA Volunteers, for serving over 10,000 hours of your time during the 2015-2016 school
year!! Certainly a wonderful contribution towards Gaither qualifying for the 5 Star Award and the Golden
School Award!
It has been a pleasure being a part of Gaither’s PTSA. I appreciate meeting wonderful parents who have been
so willing to give their time to keep Gaither one of Hillsborough County’s best high school!
More volunteer opportunities coming soon…Senior Achievement Banquet, Senior Send Off, Teacher
Appreciation Week and Splash Bash! Contact us at [email protected] if you would like to help out.
Cynthia Chippeaux
Gaither H.S. PTSA VP/Volunteers
Birthday Marquee
Celebrate your student’s birthday by having their name
and age on the Gaither High School marquee, located at
the main entrance of the school on Dale Mabry Hwy.
Names are displayed on both sides of the sign for one
week, from Friday to Friday.
Please DO NOT leave reservations/payments at
Gaither High School unless you have already
received a conformation email saying we have
reserved a spot for your student! Reservations must
be confirmed on line or by phone BEFORE sending
your check. Payment must be received before name
is posted on the marquee. If payment is not received
prior to the student’s birthday week, reservations will
be forfeited. List the name/age of the student(s) to be
recognized on your check, following confirmation of
reservation.
Contact: Sara Mason at [email protected]
What: Include first/last name of student and age
When: ASAP
Cost:
$25.00 (checks payable to GHS PTSA)
Mail payment to:
GHS PTSA - Attn. Birthday Marquee
16200 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.
Tampa, FL 33618
Thank you for supporting Gaither High School
and Happy Birthday!
5
Guidance News
REGISTERING FOR
VIRTUAL SCHOOL CLASSES
If you want to repeat one course that you failed in the
past, please talk to your counselor prior to June 10,
2016, and sign-up for Florida Virtual School.
Counselors will return on July 25th and resume
approving FLVS classes.
REGISTRATION FOR FALL
If you are receiving this newsletter, you are already
registered for classes at Gaither for the fall of 2016.
Eighth grade students requested courses in
February, and do NOT need to come in this
summer! You will be getting more information
before school starts regarding homeroom assignments
in the July/August newsletter. Open House will
occur in August.. Class schedules will be given out
the first day of school
Each current grade 8-12 student must complete an
online class prior to Graduation. Remember that
the summer is 11 weeks in length, but most FLVS
semester-long classes take 18 weeks to complete! If
you start taking a class in June, you are likely to
complete it near the end of October. (Exceptions:
driver’s ed, personal & family finance, peer
counseling, parenting skills and outdoor education are
designed to be only two months in length.)
SUMMER SCHOOL
If a student fails the End-of-Course (computerized)
Exam in Algebra I, your teacher will contact you
about the option of taking a short study course during
the summer on Mondays-Thursdays mornings at
Gaither and retaking the exam.
Go to www.flvs.net.
 Click on “Sign-up for a course.”
 Select “Sign Up Now” for FLVS Part Time
 New student start here (if this is the first course
you will take in FLVS)
 Florida student, Hillsborough, Public School
 State Student Number = social security number
 Select Florida Virtual School by placing a date in
the left box. Classes may start on any date in the
year. You are inputting an approximate date.
FLVS may assign you a teacher in two days – or
it may take up to a month.
SUMMER VACATION
Counselors will be on summer vacation from June 16
-July 22. We will be available for questions via email
starting on July 25, prior to students returning on
Wednesday, August 10.
The entire counseling staff hopes you have a
wonderful summer!
A course catalogue will appear. To select a course,
mouse-click on the word “select” beside the
appropriate course name. Select the appropriate
semester of the course. Double-click “continue.”
Continue to input your personal information.
will be assigned a user name and password.
them down and place them in a safe location.
sure to also indicate Gaither High School and
your counselor’s name.
BRIGHT FUTURES
Seniors please remember to complete the Bright
Futures Application online by following this link:
www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org/ssfad/bf/.
You
Write
Make
select
You must also complete a FAFSA (Free Application
for Federal Student Aid) online as well
(www.FAFSA.ed.gov). Both of these forms must be
completed before graduation in order to be
considered for these scholarship opportunities.
Your guidance counselor will be notified by FLVS
to evaluate and decline/approve your selection.
Your counselor will contact you if a different
selection should be made.
After FLVS assigns you a teacher, you will receive
an email notification, and the teacher will also contact
you, and your parent, via phone.
For FLVS Course Information call 800-374-1430, for
technical support visit http://help.flvs.net
Continued on Next Page
6
Guidance News
Continued from Previous Page
AP TESTING SCHEDULE MAY 2-13, 2016
Advanced Placement Exams will be given from May 2-13. On testing day, AP students do not have to attend
other classes. For morning tests – arrive by 7:30 am and leave at 11:30 (except for Human Geography - leave
at 10:30). For afternoon tests – arrive by 11:30 am and leave at 3:30.
The following tests will be held at Idlewild Baptist Church: Calculus AB and BC, Chemistry, English
Language, English Literature, Environmental Science, European History, Human Geography,
Microeconomics, Music Theory, Psychology, Statistics, US History and World History. Go in the “Student
Building” entrance, turn left and go up the stairs. Idlewild Baptist Church (Student Building) is located at the
Northeast corner of Dale Mabry & Van Dyke (18333 Exciting Idlewild Blvd., Lutz, FL 33548, 813.264.1515).
Please plan extra time to park and find the appropriate testing room.
The remaining tests will be held at Gaither.
The AP exam schedule is as follows:
Morning (begins 7:30 a.m.)
Afternoon (begins 11:30 a.m.)
Monday, May 2
Chemistry (Idlewild) - 2nd floor
Psychology (Idlewild)
Environmental Science (Idlewild) - 1st floor
Tuesday, May 3
Spanish Language (GHS 301)
Wednesday, May 4
English Literature (Idlewild)
Thursday, May 5
Calculus AB, Calculus BC (Idlewild)
Friday, May 6
United States History (Idlewild)
Monday, May 9
Biology (Idlewild) - 2nd floor
Music Theory (Idlewild) - 1st floor
Tuesday, May 10
US Government and Politics (GHS 182)
Wednesday, May 11
English Language (Idlewild)
Macroeconomics (GHS 182)
Thursday, May 12
Comp. Government and Politics (GHS 182)
World History (Idlewild)
Statistics (Idlewild)
Friday, May 13
Human Geography (Idlewild) (7:30-10:30)
Microeconomics (Idlewild) - 1st floor
7
Art History (GHS Guidance Office)
Physics I (GHS 182)
European History (Idlewild)
Guidance News (continued)
Juniors, Time To Put Your College Planning Into High Gear
You need to complete your research on Four Year Universities, Community Colleges, Vocational/Technical
Schools and the military. Create a binder for your college information. Create an email account for college
admissions purposes and check it frequently.
Make arrangements to visit the colleges that interest you. Contact the schools admissions office to schedule a
campus tour and interviews. You need to find out if the college or university has the right “feel”. Write down
questions ahead of time, take pictures, and make notes. Figure out what features a school has that matters the
most to you.
Know the admissions requirements and deadlines for the colleges you will be applying to in the fall. Try to
narrow your choices to between three and five. You should include “safety” or “probable” schools based on
your GPA and test scores (ACT or SAT) and schools that may be a “reach” where you might just make the
schools minimum criteria.
Work on your community service hours this summer. Community Service is required for all Bright Futures
Scholarships (100 hours for the FAS, 75 hours for the FMS and 30 hours for the GVS). You may also choose
to write about your volunteer experiences on application essays for colleges and for scholarships.
Look at your test scores and if necessary plan to retest early in the fall. The first ACT of the school year is in
the fall and the first SAT of the school year is given in October.
Apply early; it is to your benefit with most schools. Florida state universities usually have their applications
online in August. FSU and UF have specific dates in the fall when their applications are due. The best chance
for being accepted usually goes to the early applicant. Don’t wait until your GPA or test scores are higher
and where you would like them to be, apply, apply, apply! You may continue to test, but schools will not
evaluate your application until you have all the “pieces”. The schools will inform you if they want you submit
additional test scores, grades, or letters of recommendation. Priority application deadlines that allow you to
be considered for academic scholarships are often in the fall of your senior year! Know the deadlines!
Apply!
Helpful websites include:
www.knowhow2go.org
www.navigatingyourfinancialfuture.org
Start researching scholarships! There is a scholarship bulletin posted every
month on Edline throughout the school year in the Guidance section. Other
scholarship websites you may wish to check out are:
www.fastweb.com
www.finaid.com
www.studentscholarships.org
www.wiredscholar.com
www.cappex.com
8
GHS Chorus News
On Thursday, Feb. 25 one hundred fifteen Gaither students performed in Men's Chorus, Women's Chorus and Concert
Chorus at our District Musical Performance Assessment. Men's Chorus received two "Superior" ratings and two
"Excellent" ratings, while Concert Chorus and Women's Chorus both received "Straight Superior"
ratings. Congratulations to all Gaither Chorus singers!
Gaither High School is so proud of its award winning singers! Five soloists and one quartet sang at our State Solo &
Ensemble on April 5, all receiving "Superior" ratings! Caitlyn Feenaughty, Ryan Mills, Celine Garcia, Brianna Jones
and Madison Padgett were the soloists - Madison and Brianna also received invitations to perform on the Honors Recital,
raising their rating to "Superior with Distinction". Our girls' quartet "The Little Debbies" also received "Superior with
Distinction" and performed on the Honors Recital. Bravo Ladies and Gentleman!
"SPECTRUM Has Feelings, Too" was a great success! Over 1,000 people came to see the three performances, which
featured Gaither's Concert Chorus and Men's Chorus members singing and dancing to music all centered around the
theme of emotions and feelings. Full group production numbers opened and closed the show, and in between came small
groups, soloists and Showcase 2016. The entire song selection was suggested by students, as well as costuming concepts
and choreography design. Student emcees kept the musical revue moving along, with many of the lines being written by
the students themselves. Parents designed, built and decorated all of the amazing set pieces. All 24 songs (including an
18-song Love Medley arranged by Steve Kirby) were played live by the Showcase band, and an enthusiastic audience
helped to ramp up the energy for each performance. Thanks to everyone who had a part in making this year's
"SPECTRUM" such a memorable and exciting show!
Women's Chorus will be presenting a performance of pop music on May 5 at 7:00 P.M. A good time will be had by all
when these ladies entertain us with singing, dancing, and frivolity. Tickets are only a $3.00 donation and are available
from all Women’s Chorus members, and at the door.
Don't miss "FINALE", the final performance of Showcase 2016. On Thursday, May 19, at 7:00 in the evening, Showcase
will sing and play their 2016 set of songs for the last time, as well as featuring small groups and soloists. Tickets are only
$5 and are available from any Showcase member, or at the door, while they last!
Concert Chorus Seniors will be performing at Baccalaureate on Sunday, May 22. This is a unique opportunity for
graduates to be on-campus for photo ops in their caps and gowns, and this inspirational send-off is followed by a
reception with refreshments for all.
Concert Chorus will be having their Awards Banquet on Tuesday, May 31, and one deserving Senior will be named as
the recipient of the $1,000.00 choral scholarship named after Gaither's original choral director Jerry Skora. Best of luck
to all Seniors who applied for this prestigious financial award.
To any student who is considering Chorus as an elective choice, it is never too late! Go see Mrs. Cleveland in the Chorus
Room (112) or email her at [email protected]. Singing experience is not necessary. All you need is a
voice and a willingness to learn, work hard, and have fun. Visit us at GaitherChorus.com or the Gaither Chorus page on
Facebook!
FUTURE DATES OF "NOTE":
Women's Pop Concert - Thursday, May 5, 7:00 P.M.
Showcase FINALE - Thursday, May 19, 7:00 P.M.
Mrs. C.
Director of Vocal Music, Phone: 813.975.7340 ext. 267, www.gaitherchorus.com
9
Gaither Vocal Music Boosters Application
You Make the Difference!
BECOME A GAITHER VOCAL MUSIC BOOSTER MEMBER
AND ENJOY A YEAR OF MUSIC!!!!!!
Membership Level:
Membership Premiums for each level*:
_____
Family Membership
$25.00
_____
Bronze Membership
$50.00
_____
Silver Membership
$75.00
_____
Gold Membership
$100.00
_____
Diamond Membership
$150.00
_____
Platinum Membership
$250.00 +
2 tickets to the concert of your choice
With 2 Preferred seats
2 tickets to 2 concerts of your choice
With 2 Preferred seats
2 tickets to 3 concerts of your choice
With 2 Preferred seats
2 tickets to all concerts
With 2 Premium seats
4 tickets to all concerts
With 4 Premium seats
6 tickets to all concerts
With 6 Premium seats
*All Gaither Vocal Music Booster Memberships will be acknowledged in our performance programs
Please make checks payable to: Gaither High School Vocal Music Boosters (or GVMB)
Return this form along with your contribution to: Gaither High School – Chorus
16200 North Dale Mabry Hwy
Tampa, FL 33618
The Gaither Vocal Music Department is grateful for your generous and meaningful support of our program.
All contributions are applied directly to our operating needs.
Booster Name: _____________________________________________________________________________
(As you wish it to appear in our performance programs)
Preferred Phone 1: _________________________ Preferred Phone 2: ______________________________
Preferred Email 1: _________________________________________________________________________
Preferred Email 2: _________________________________________________________________________
Address: __________________________________________________________________________________
Street
City
10
Zip
GHS Orchestra
The 2015-16 School year has been a fantastic year for the Gaither High School Orchestra and I look forward to the
2016-17 school year to be even better!
The Gaither Orchestra family is extremely excited for our new members and excited to share that next year we will
have 3 Orchestra classes!
1) Violin/ Viola Concert Orchestra - This class is designed to support the technical growth of the Violin
and Viola sections.
2) Cello/ Bass Concert Orchestra - This class is designed to support the technical growth of the Cello and
Bass sections.
3) Chamber Orchestra - This class is an audition only class. Auditions will take place on Monday, May
16th from 2:30 - 6:30pm in room 113.
* If you are interested in starting orchestra after a leave of abscence of orchestra in middle school or want to start a
new adventure. Email Mrs. Szarowicz ([email protected]) and we will get you started in June.
During the summer all of the current and future orchestra students will meet on the following Mondays in room 113
( Instrumental Music Room) for our Summer Orchestra Camps. Please enter from the North parking lot, exterior
door. We look forward to meeting ALL of Our Incoming Freshman on Monday, June 13 from 5 - 7:30pm in the
Gaither High School Auditorium.
13-Jun-16
5:00 - 7:30pm
AUDITORIUM/113
MEET AND GREET ORCHESTRA
14-Jun-16
5:00 - 7:30pm
AUDITORIUM/113
Chamber Orchestra ( Mandatory)
20-Jun-16
5:00 - 7:30pm
AUDITORIUM/113
Summer ORCHESTRA REHEARSAL
11-Jul-16
5:00 - 7:30pm
AUDITORIUM/113
Summer ORCHESTRA REHEARSAL
25-Jul-16
5:00 - 7:30pm
AUDITORIUM/113
Summer ORCHESTRA REHEARSAL
1-Aug-16
5:00 - 7:30pm
AUDITORIUM/113
Summer ORCHESTRA REHEARSAL
Fall Orchestra Camp 2016 - Saturday, 8/20, 9am - 4pm (Mandatory for all enrolled orchestra students )
This camp is a methods, masterworks, and bonding experience for the Entire Gaither Family. This year we have
Barbara Cripe ( violin), Raine Allen ( Viola), Gonca Hoff & Grace Juliano ( cello), and Christian Abreu ( Bass)
with special guest conductors Raine Allen of Dr. Phillips School or the Performing Arts and Dr. Kira Olmechenko
of Florida Southern University. Lunch will be served by the Gaither Orchestra Parents.
The Gaither High School Orchestra looks forward to their College Tour 2016 on September 28, 29th & October 1st,
2016. We will be touring, taking masterclasses, and performing at Florida Gulf Coast University, Steston
University, and Florida Southern University. Cost will be between $200 - $250 per person, payment plans and
fundraisers will take place through the summer. More information to come.
If you have any questions pertaining orchestra please email me at [email protected]
Musically Yours,
Andrea Szarowicz
11-12 All State Coordinator, Director of Orchestras, Guitar, and ESE Music GHS
|| [email protected] || www.gaitherorchestra.com ||
11
NJROTC News
Gaither NJROTC Attends Navy Nationals in Pensacola for the First Time
The NJROTC traveled to the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida to compete in the Annual NJROTC
Navy National Championships from March 30 to April 3. From a total of 580 schools across America, twenty
-five are invited annually to compete in the National Championships. Some may recall that Gaither NJROTC
qualified for Navy Nationals in 2014, but the competition was held as a virtual event at local high schools to
save government funds. This was the first time that Gaither students were heading out of town to compete
face-to-face with the best Navy Cadets in America.
For a full month prior to their departure, the Cadets trained at a breakneck pace with the objective of
perfecting all competitive areas – mainly academics, athletics and drill. Departing for Pensacola via charter
bus, the Cadets were well-prepared and highly motivated, having won three State-wide competitions and
placing 2nd at the Florida State Championships. (continued on next page)
12
(NJROTC News continued from previous page)
Before the 2-day competition began, the Cadets had time to conduct team training on the Air Station and
attend several professional development venues. The Cadets spent an afternoon at the USS ALABAMA
Battleship park in Mobile, AL where they were able to walk aboard the USS ALABAMA Battleship and had
access to a myriad of aircraft, tanks and even a World War II submarine! Dinner at night was served at
Lambert’s Throwed Rolls in Foley, Alabama (google it!). This all-you-can-eat country restaurant featured
heaps of southern cooking and the biggest homemade rolls you’d ever seen, literally thrown at you from
across the room. If you dropped it, they just threw another. Needless to say, the Cadets had a blast.
The following afternoon, after team training, featured a visit to the National Naval Aviation Museum and its
IMAX theater, a 80-foot tall movie screen with surround-sound. Cadets were able to place their hands on
vintage aircraft and historical memorabilia dating back to the first days of powered flight.
The 2-day competition began Friday. The Cadets did a masterful job of managing their stress and anxiety and
their performance included some of the best routines they had ever done. Every competitor saw great value in
the opportunity to compete against the best schools in America. As a team, their confidence soared. It was
clear that Gaither NJROTC deserved to be on the national stage.
The Cadets earned a 2nd Place trophy in Team Academics along with several individual medals. More
importantly, the Gaither Cadets turned many heads with their performances and professionalism, and
continued to enhance their reputation as a nationally recognized unit.
The Cadets have already begun training for next year, and intend to return.
Go Cowboys!
LCDR Jim Stauffer
Senior Naval Science Instructor
Gaither NJROTC
Theatre News
Don’t miss Gaither Theatre's Year-End Variety Show
Wednesday, May 25 at 7:15 pm in the GHS Auditorium
Tickets are $5.00. You may purchase one from a theatre student or at the door.
Thank you!
WILL ALBRITTON
[email protected]
Theatre Director / Gaither High School /
13
Band News
Leadership Auditions: Prospective leaders should have the following dates reserved for auditions: May 11th,
May 16th, and May 19 (drum major band). May 11th will be from 3:30 to 5 pm in the band room. Students
will need to wear marching band rehearsal attire. We will not be outdoors. Students will sign up for interview
times for the 16th and 19th.
Drum Major Band: On 5/19, all band students will need to stay after school for the drum major auditions
from 3:15 - 5 pm. Students will be playing for the drum major candidates and then voting on which candidates they feel would be best as drum major. At the end, the 2016 Marching Show will be revealed!
Wind Ensemble Performance with Middle Schools: On May 16th and 17th, the wind ensemble will be performing a piece alongside our partner schools (Buchanan and Ben Hill). The exact times will be posted soon.
Please come out and support!
Wind Ensemble Auditions: The wind ensemble is the Premiere concert band at Gaither High School. Every
student has the right to audition for this ensemble. This includes incoming freshmen. Membership in this ensemble will be strictly determined by their audition. The student’s grade level and/or years of participation
will not have any bearing on the results. The only fair way to fill the ensemble is to base it strictly on their
auditions. Students have been given all of this information in advance. To be successful students should plan
on practicing 30 minutes to an hour daily.
The audition will be as follows: 12 major scales beginning on G concert and then moving up chromatically.
Bonus points will be given for scales that are played (played well) in more than 1 octave. The deadline for
their 12 major scales is May 16th. There may be some sight-reading included at the time of audition. Their
scales must be memorized.
Jazz Ensemble 1 Auditions: The Jazz auditions are up on Charms. Students will have until May 16th to play
their auditions for Mr. Alvarez. Membership in this ensemble will be strictly determined by the audition.
Congratulations to 2016-2017 Drumline
Snares: Alex Alvarado, Kaden Foreid, James Keough, Stephen Slay
Tenors: Jacob Nieves, Vincent Rodgers
Basses: Cimario Bradley, Hendrick Cartagena, Chris Domenech, Austin Grantham, Alec Gremer
GHSIMB Message - The new Board for the 2016 & 2017 year has now been put in place. I would like to
thank Don Tate, Jacki Coolidge, Jeanne DeVita, Tina Welch, and Manuel Johnson for their service this year.
All of these wonderful parents will still be around and have offered to work on Committees and be there for
the benefit of our students. Thank you to all of you.
We have two concerts coming up. Percussion will be giving us the Beats on Monday 5/9 and then OPUS will
be a whirlwind of sound on Tuesday, 5/10. Mr. Alvarez decided to add in Jazz to OPUS so the night will be
Epic. I hope to see everyone at both events. Tickets for OPUS are $5.00 each. We will be selling them at the
Percussion concert Monday night and before OPUS on Tuesday.
Lisa Borrell & Robin DeVault
2016-2017 Booster Co-Presidents
14
15
16
Web Addresses Galore
Gaither High information
 www.Gaither.mysdhc.org
Everything you want to know about GHS
 https://sdhc.edsby.com/
Monitor your student’s grades, attendance, and
other parent-wise things (better than Facebook!)
 www.GaitherBand.org
Gaither Band website
 www.GaitherChorus.com
Gaither Chorus & Showcase website
 www.GaitherOrchestra.com
Gaither Orchestra website
 www.flvc.org
High School planning
 www.flvs.net
Florida Virtual School: if your student entered
9th grade during the 2011-2012 or during the
2012-2013 school year, they must take an online
class before graduation.
 www.guidmii.com
Lots of links to student success. Use your
Edsby username & password.
 www.GHSPonyExpress.com
Pony Express School Newspaper
 www.GaitherPTSA.org
Gaither High School PTSA website
Scholarships
 Edsby and the Gaither website
(scholarships posted monthly by Mrs. Nissen College and Career Counselor. Also community
service forms are available to print)
 www.fastweb.com
Great scholarship website!
 http://www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org/
SSFAD/bf (Bright Futures)
 Mental Health
http://kidshealth.org/teenyourmind/problems/
bullies.html
Testing and other stressfuls
 www.fcatexplorer.com
Your student may use this site to practice for the
Reading FCAT 2.0)
Student login = lastname+first initial (studentc)
Password: = 29+first 4 letters of last name + birth
month + day (29stud0904)
 www.FLAssessments.com/epat
Actual practice tests for computer FCAT 2.0 &
Algebra EOC exam to install on your computer.
 http://fcat.fldoe.org/fcat2/pdf/achlevel.pdf
FCAT 2.0 & Florida EOC Assessments
 www.collegeboard.org
PSAT, SAT, and hundreds of things about what
you need to prepare for post-secondary education.
 www.ACTstudent.org
ACT testing, much like Collegeboard but a
different company.
Miscellaneous
 211 is the emergency mental health number
through the Hillsborough County Crisis Center.
 http://myspot.sdhc.k12.fl.us
MySPOT - Your online connection to HCPS
resources
 HerffJonestampabay.com
Order your cap & gown & school ring now!
 www.collegegoalsundayfl.org
College Goal Weekend information
 http://www.gotomyncf.com
NACAC College Fair
 www.fafsa.ed.gov
Federal Financial Aid
 www.sdhc.k12.fl.us
Hillsborough County School District Website
17
Senior Class 2016 Timeline
May
AP Exams (5/2-13)
Senior Achievement Awards Banquet (5/11)
ICC Banquet (05/16)
Senior Class Meeting (TBA)
Baccalaureate - Gaither Auditorium (5/22@2pm)
Senior Exams (5/23-25)
Senior Exam Make Ups (5/26-27)
Senior Sendoff (5/27 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.)
Graduation Rehearsal - State Fairgrounds (5/31)
Deadline to purchase Splash Bash tickets (TBA)
June
Seniors Last Day (6/1)
Graduation Ceremony . . . . State Fairgrounds (6/6 @ 9:00 a.m.)
Splash Bash
. . . . Adventure Island (6/6 @ 7:00 p.m.)
2016 Gaither Graduation Info



Baccalaureate 05/22/2016 @ 2:00 p.m.
 Students will wear their cap & gown
Graduation Rehearsal 05/31/15 @ 1:00 p.m. (MANDATORY)
 Florida State Fairgrounds - students will enter from Hwy 301
Graduation Ceremony 06/06/2016 @ 9:00 a.m.
 Students plan to be there at 7:30 a.m.
 Bring caps, gowns, tassels, medallions, and honors cords
 Florida State Fairgrounds
 Leave early plan for traffic
 Enter through 301 or MLK for ceremony
 Have $5.00 (1’s or 5) handy to pay for parking! No coins
 Seating is first come- first serve. You cannot save seats.
 No speeding—obey the posted signs
 Questions--- call the school NOT fairgrounds
18
Updates from the Senate
Gaither is hosting the "Relay for Life" event on Friday, May 13th. We need teams to sign-up and commit
to help us fundraiser to cure cancer! Mrs. Trumbach will be holding a "Bag Cancer" sale soon. Great
deals on some great handbags--and 100% of the proceeds goes to the American Cancer Society. Listen for
announcements on GTV and watch for our Senate "tweets!"
The ICC banquet will be held on May 16th at Heritage Harbor Club House. Club members attending are
encouraged to dress according to this year's theme, "Cowboy Chic."
All students must pay their school debts asap, especially Seniors, as graduation is rapidly approaching!
You will not receive a diploma if you have outstanding debt!
Our 2016-17 Homecoming game vs. Wiregrass Ranch High School will be played on Friday, October 21,
2016. All alumni are encouraged to attend the game and help cheer on our Cowboys.
The 2016-17 Homecoming dance will be held on October 22nd.
Our Senate has been collecting new baby items (diapers, wipes, bibs, bottles, pacifiers, etc.) to be donated
to those families in need through Metropolitan Ministries. It's not too late to donate!
Business Technology News
Congratulations to the Web Design team of Asier Martinez, Antonio Rodriguez, and Samuel Stander for placing 4th at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference held in Orlando, FL
March 11 – 14, 2016.
Cathy Martinez
Department Head
Business Technology Department
CIW Certified Design Specialist
Adobe Certified Specialist
Microsoft Office Specialist
813.975.7340 Extension 262
19
Sports in the News
Baseball
Our baseball team finished out the year as the District Champions!! They have earned a spot to play for the
Regional Championship and if they win the go to State!
Softball
Our softball team finished out the year as District Champions!!
Track & Field
Our track team has some potentials for state . They will run in their district meet.


Western Conference Championship Track Athletes

Alessa Sandusky - 1st in 100 hurdles, 2nd in 300 hurdles

LaSarah Hargrove - 3rd in 100 meters, 3rd in 200 meters

Prudence Vanpoulle - 1st in 3200 meters
State Finalists

Alessa Sandusky 8th place in 110 hurdles and 5th place in 300 hurdles,

LaSarah Hargrove placed 3rd in 100 Meter Dash and 5th in 200 Meter Dash,

Carter Palasti - 3rd in State in Pole Vault.
Cheer
We have hired a new Cheer Coaching Team for next year. Jennifer Mitchell and Victoria Minor. They will be
present at the new athlete to Gaither Meeting on June 10th at 3:00.
Be on the lookout for information about "New to Gaither Athletics" meeting to be held June 10th. This would
be for incoming freshman as well as currently enrolled Cowboys who are interested in participating in athletics
in the 2016-2017 school year.
20
GHS ATHLETIC BOOSTER CLUB (ABC)
Volunteer & Membership Application
There are many benefits to you and your athlete when you volunteer and join GHS Athletic Booster
Club. We assist the school by hosting athletic events and visitor welcoming activities such as event parking &
concessions for many of the activities. ABC raises funds to supplement your students' team facilities and
equipment as well as enable coaches to attend coach's clinics. Lastly, we provide three sports award banquets
and 4 college scholarships to GHSABC members' student athletes (2 girls/ 2 boys) annually. We need your
active involvement to make Gaither High School a fulfilling experience for you and your student athlete.
Name: _____________________________ Occupation/Special Talents: _____________________________
Name: _____________________________ Occupation/Special Talents: _____________________________
Email: _______________________________________
_______________________________________
Address: ___________________________ Phone: ______________________________________________
City/State/Zip: ____________________________________________________________________________
Athlete’s Name: __________________________ Grade: _____ Sport(s): ___________________________
Athlete’s Name: __________________________ Grade: _____ Sport(s): ___________________________
Member’s Signature: _______________________________________________________________________
Let us know what your interests are in helping with the following
 Athletic Scholarships
 Athletic Events
 ABC Committee Member
 Welcoming & Concessions
 Membership Coordination
 Parking & Logistics
 Sports Program Ads
 Fund Raising
 Other___________________
 Sports Award Banquets
 Athletic Team ABC Liaison
 _______________________
Family Membership (for 2)
Single Membership
Grandparent Membership
Posse Membership
$40
$20
$20
$150
(Posse membership includes two Hillsborough County Passes, family membership & free parking at home football games)
Only members of the Athletic Booster Club are eligible to purchase an annual pass for admission into any
regular season athletic event in Hillsborough County. These (county-wide) passes are non-transferable.
One county-wide admission pass
$50
Two county-wide admission passes (both members)
$100
Thank you for this first step in supporting Gaither High School athletics.
Please return this form to your Booster Club liaison, or
Make checks payable to: G.H.S.A.B.C.
mail to: P.O. Box 340554, Tampa, FL 33694-05544
Any questions contact [email protected]
Rev 8/2015
21
2015-2016 Student Academic School Calendar
Below is the student academic calendar for the current school year. Please save a copy for future
reference. This calendar is available on the school district website at www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/calendar/.
Students’ First Day of School
Tuesday, August 25
Labor Day Holiday/Schools and District Offices Closed
Monday, September 7
End of 1st Grading Period
Friday, October 23
Non-Student Day
Monday, October 26
Veteran’s Day Holiday/Non-Student Day
Monday, November 11
Fall Break/Schools and District Offices Closed
Monday – Friday, November 23-27
Students Return to School
Monday, November 30
Winter Break/Schools and District Offices Closed
Monday – Friday, December 21 – January 1
Students Return to School
Monday, January 4
End of 2nd Grading Period (End of 1st Semester)
Friday, January 15
Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday/Schools and District Offices Closed
Monday, January 18
Non-Student Day
Tuesday, January 19
Florida State Fair Day/Non-Student Day – West Hillsborough County
Friday, February 5
Strawberry Festival/Non-Student Day – East Hillsborough County
Monday, March 7
Spring Break/Schools and District Offices Closed
Monday – Friday, March 14-18
Students Return to School
Monday, March 21
Non-Student Day
Friday, March 25
End of 3rd Grading Period
Friday, April 1
Memorial Day Holiday/Schools and District Offices Closed
Monday, May 30
Last Day of School/End of 4th Grading Period (End of 2nd Semester)
- early release at 12:25
Friday, June 10
Early release every Monday at 1:55 pm
22
Calendario del Año Escolar 2015 - 2016 del Estudiante
A continuación se muestra el calendario académico de los estudiantes para el año escolar actual. Por
favor, guarde una copia para futuras referencias. Este calendario está disponible en la página web del
distrito escolar en www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/calendar/.
Primer día de clases
Martes, 25 de Agosto
Día del Trabajo – Feriado /Escuelas y oficinas del distrito cerradas
Lunes, 07 de Septiembre
Fin del primer período de calificaciones
Viernes, 23 de Octubre
Día libre para los estudiantes
Lunes, 26 de Octubre
Día del Veterano - Feriado /Día libre para los estudiantes
Los estudiantes regresan a la escuela
Lunes, 11 de Noviembre
Lunes a Viernes,
23 al 27 de Noviembre
Lunes, 30 de Noviembre
Lunes a Viernes,
21 de Diciembre al 1 de Enero
Lunes, 04 de Enero
Fin del segundo período de calificaciones (Fin del primer semestre)
Viernes, 15 de Enero
Martin Luther King, Jr. –Feriado/Escuelas y oficinas del distrito cerradas
Lunes,18 de Enero
Vacaciones de otoño /Escuelas y oficinas del distrito cerradas
Los estudiantes regresan a la escuela
Vacaciones de invierno /Escuelas y oficinas del distrito cerradas
Día libre para los estudiantes
Martes, 19 de Enero
Día de la Feria Estatal de Florida /Día libre para los estudiantes del Oeste
Viernes, 05 de Febrero
del Condado de Hillsborough
Festival de la Fresa /Día libre para los estudiantes del Este del Condado
Lunes, 07 de Marzo
de Hillsborough
Lunes a Viernes,
Vacaciones de primavera /Escuelas y oficinas del distrito cerradas
14 al 18 de Marzo
Los estudiantes regresan a la escuela
Lunes, 21 de Marzo
Día libre para los estudiantes
Viernes, 25 de Marzo
Fin del tercer período de calificaciones
Día de Conmemoración de los Caídos – Feriado /Escuelas y oficinas del
distrito cerradas
Último día de clases /Fin del cuarto período de calificaciones (Fin del segundo semestre) Libertad anticipada a las 12:25pm.
Viernes, 01 de Abril
Temprano liberar todos los lunes a las 1:55pm
23
Lunes, 30 de Mayo
Viernes, 10 de Junio
2016-2017 Student Academic School Calendar
Below is the student academic calendar for the next school year. Please save a copy for future
reference. This calendar is available on the school district website at www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/calendar/.
Students’ First Day of School
Wednesday, August 10
Labor Day Holiday/Schools and District Offices Closed
Monday, September 05
End of 1st Grading Period
Friday, October 07
Non-Student Day
Monday, October 10
Veteran’s Day Holiday/Non-Student Day
Friday, November 11
Fall Break/Schools and District Offices Closed
Monday – Friday, November 21-25
Students Return to School
Monday, November 28
End of 2nd Grading Period (End of 1st Semester)
Friday, December 16
Winter Break/Schools and District Offices Closed
Monday – Friday, December 19-30
Non-Student Day
Monday, January 02
Students Return to School
Tuesday, January 03
Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday/Schools and District Offices Closed
Monday, January 16
Florida State Fair Day/Non-Student Day – West Hillsborough County
Friday, February 10
Presidents Day
Monday, February 20
Strawberry Festival/Non-Student Day – East Hillsborough County
Monday, March 06
End of 3rd Grading Period
Friday, March 10
Spring Break/Schools and District Offices Closed
Monday – Friday, March 13-17
Students Return to School
Monday, March 20
Non-Student Day
Friday, April 14
Last Day of School/End of 4th Grading Period (End of 2nd Semester)
- early release at 12:25
Friday, May 26
Early release every Monday at 1:55 pm
24
Calendario del Año Escolar 2016 - 2017 del Estudiante
A continuación se muestra el calendario académico de los estudiantes para el próximo año escolar. Por
favor, guarde una copia para referencia futura. Este calendario está disponible en el sitio web del
distrito en www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/calendar/.
Primer día de clases
Miércoles, 10 de Agosto
Día del Trabajo – Feriado /Escuelas y oficinas del distrito cerradas
Lunes, 05 de Septiembre
Fin del primer período de calificaciones
Viernes, 07 de Octubre
Día libre para los estudiantes
Lunes, 10 de Octubre
Día del Veterano - Feriado /Día libre para los estudiantes
Los estudiantes regresan a la escuela
Viernes, 11 de Noviembre
Lunes a Viernes,
21 al 25 de Noviembre
Lunes, 28 de Noviembre
Fin del segundo período de calificaciones (Fin del primer semestre)
Viernes, 16 de Diciembre
Vacaciones de otoño /Escuelas y oficinas del distrito cerradas
Día libre para los estudiantes
Lunes a Viernes,
19 al 30 de Diciembre
Lunes, 02 de Enero
Los estudiantes regresan a la escuela
Martes, 03 de Enero
Vacaciones de invierno /Escuelas y oficinas del distrito cerradas
Martin Luther King, Jr. –Feriado/Escuelas y oficinas del distrito cerradas Lunes,16 de Enero
Día de la Feria Estatal de Florida /Día libre para los estudiantes del Oeste
Viernes, 10 de Febrero
del Condado de Hillsborough
Día del Presidente
Lunes, 20 de Febrero
Festival de la Fresa /Día libre para los estudiantes del Este del Condado
de Hillsborough
Lunes, 06 de Marzo
Fin del tercer período de calificaciones
Viernes, 10 de Marzo
Vacaciones de primavera /Escuelas y oficinas del distrito cerradas
Los estudiantes regresan a la escuela
Día libre para los estudiantes
Último día de clases /Fin del cuarto período de calificaciones (Fin del segundo semestre) Libertad anticipada a las 12:25pm.
Temprano liberar todos los lunes a las 1:55pm
25
Lunes a Viernes,
13 al 17 de Marzo
Lunes, 20 de Marzo
Viernes, 14 de Abril
Viernes, 26 de Mayo
Gaither Senior
Splash Bash 2016
Adventure Island
Monday, June 6th
7:00 pm to 12:00 am
Tickets On Sale Now!

Adventure Island will be open to only Gaither Seniors and their guests.

Enjoy all rides, attractions and games.

Food, drinks and entertainment are provided by the PTSA (no outside food or drinks allowed).

Parents interested in helping can call 813-376-6835 for additional information.

Permission Forms available in the Main Office and in this Newsletter

Ticket cost includes admission, food, drinks and entertainment for the evening.
Ticket prices are for our seniors and their guests. The cost includes admission to Adventure Island, food,
drinks and entertainment for the evening. Splash Bash Permission Forms can be picked up in the Main
Office or by the ATM in the cafeteria.
Cowboy Closet
Cowboy Closet is for Gaither students experiencing a need due to homelessness, house fire, family
unemployment, or other family emergency.
To Donate: Visit the Cowboy Clothing Wish Rack in the Guidance Department and take a tag off
the hook. The tag will indicate sizes of clothing and/or any other items (shoes, school supplies,
personal items, etc.)
Clothing donated should be new or gently used (clean, no stains), conform to school dress code,
and be of the current style. Bring the item(s) to the Gaither High School Guidance Department
during regular school hours. Charitable donation receipts will be issued for the amount of new
items only (please present receipt when bringing in the item).
Family or student in need: If you are a student or family in need or if you know of a family in
need, please contact Shirley Padilla, GHS Social Worker. All information will be kept confidential.
Shirley Padilla
GHS Social Worker
Phone: 813.975.7340 extension: 302
26
PTSA USE ONLY
Paid Cash or Check # _______
Amount Paid $ _____________
Received By _______________
Date Received _____________
Senior Gift _________________
SENIOR FORM
Name of Senior ______________________________________
(Please print)
Last Name
First Name
Date of Birth _______________
Name of Guest ______________________________________
(Please print)
Last Name
First Name
Date of Birth _______________
Name of Guest ______________________________________
(Please print)
Last Name
First Name
Date of Birth _______________
Splash Bash
Adventure Island
June 6, 2016 • 7:00 pm – 12:00 am
Senior/Guests – $60
Splash Bash Rules, Parent Contact, Permission and Release Form
Gaither High School PTSA
RULES
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
In order to provide a safe non-alcoholic, drug-free graduation celebration, the Gaither PTSA requires each attendee to
abide by the following rules:

Photo IDs are required of all seniors and guests at Adventure Island check-in.

Gaither graduating seniors may bring two guests. Guests must be between the ages of 16 and 21 as of June 6,
2016. Admission tickets are not transferrable.

All seniors and guests must have permission and release forms completed and signed by a parent or legal guardian
in order to purchase a ticket.

Admission to Adventure Island is between 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm, Monday, June 6, 2016. NO ONE WILL BE
ADMITTED AFTER 8:30 PM.

Departure from Adventure Island will begin at 11:00 pm and conclude at 12:00 am. No one will be permitted to leave
the park prior to 11:00 pm without a parent being notified and permission given from that parent.

Appropriate bathing suit attire is required. No thongs or t-backs allowed.

All attendees will follow the rules established by the Gaither PTSA and volunteers, and Adventure Island personnel
and security.

Any disruptive behavior or inappropriate behavior will result in parents being notified and possible removal from
Adventure Island premises.

Gaither PTSA and/or GHS Administrators may deny entrance to Adventure Island due to academic or conduct
issues or non-compliance of any of the above rules.

NO REFUNDS.
27
LIABILITY RELEASE
As parent or guardian of __________________________________________________________
I have read and agree with the rules for Splash Bash 2016 and understand and encourage my
son/daughter to abide by these rules. I believe the Gaither High School’s PTSA and their representatives will do all in their power to assure the safety and well-being of my son/daughter. But realizing the age of my son/daughter, and further recognizing the scope of the area and activities
characteristic of Adventure Island, I do hereby release the Gaither High School PTSA, Gaither
High School, and all of their representatives of any claims of negligence, injury, or indemnity occurring during this event. I grant my full permission for my son/daughter to attend this event and understand this is a full evening event and my son/daughter will not be allowed to leave the theme
park until 11:00 pm on Monday, June 6, 2016.
I understand the Gaither PTSA will attempt to notify me in the event my son/daughter wants to
leave early or is not complying with school or Adventure Island regulations. I further acknowledge
that Gaither High School PTSA and their representatives are no longer responsible for my son/
daughter once they depart from Adventure Island.
EMERGENCY TREATMENT PROCEDURES
In the event of an injury to my son/daughter, I understand every attempt will be made to notify me
of the injury and realize the information below is crucial to that notification. However, if notification
is not successful at the phone number(s) listed below, I grant my full permission to the Gaither
High School PTSA, Gaither High School administration/staff, their representatives and/or Adventure Island security personnel to make decisions for the emergency care of my son/daughter with
transport by ambulance to Florida Hospital Tampa at my expense if necessary.
The following phone number(s) will be my EXACT LOCATION on Monday, June 6nd from 7:00 pm
until 12:00 am. I have provided at least one emergency number that is NOT a cell phone number
or pager. I understand the PTSA cannot be held responsible for disconnected or out-of-service
numbers used as emergency contacts.
PARENT/STUDENT SIGNATURES
Parent/Guardian (please print name)
Home Phone Number _____________________ Cell Phone Number _____________________
Parent/Guardian Signature ________________________________
Date ________________
I will abide by the rules described in this document.
Student/Guest Signature __________________________________
28
Date ________________
PTSA USE ONLY
Paid Cash or Check # _______
Amount Paid $ _____________
Received By _______________
Date Received _____________
GUEST FORM
Name of Senior ______________________________________
(Please print)
Last Name
First Name
Date of Birth _______________
Name of Guest ______________________________________
(Please print)
Last Name
First Name
Date of Birth _______________
Splash Bash
Adventure Island
June 6, 2016 • 7:00 pm – 12:00 am
Senior/Guests – $60
Splash Bash Rules, Parent Contact, Permission and Release Form
Gaither High School PTSA
RULES
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
In order to provide a safe non-alcoholic, drug-free graduation celebration, the Gaither PTSA requires each attendee to
abide by the following rules:

Photo IDs are required of all seniors and guests at Adventure Island check-in.

Gaither graduating seniors may bring two guests. Guests must be between the ages of 16 and 21 as of June 6,
2016. Admission tickets are not transferrable.

All seniors and guests must have permission and release forms completed and signed by a parent or legal guardian
in order to purchase a ticket.

Admission to Adventure Island is between 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm, Monday, June 6, 2016. NO ONE WILL BE ADMITTED AFTER 8:30 PM.

Departure from Adventure Island will begin at 11:00 pm and conclude at 12:00 am. No one will be permitted to leave
the park prior to 11:00 pm without a parent being notified and permission given from that parent.

Appropriate bathing suit attire is required. No thongs or t-backs allowed.

All attendees will follow the rules established by the Gaither PTSA and volunteers, and Adventure Island personnel
and security.

Any disruptive behavior or inappropriate behavior will result in parents being notified and possible removal from Adventure Island premises.

Gaither PTSA and/or GHS Administrators may deny entrance to Adventure Island due to academic or conduct issues or non-compliance of any of the above rules.

NO REFUNDS.
29
LIABILITY RELEASE
As parent or guardian of __________________________________________________________
I have read and agree with the rules for Splash Bash 2016 and understand and encourage my
son/daughter to abide by these rules. I believe the Gaither High School’s PTSA and their representatives will do all in their power to assure the safety and well-being of my son/daughter. But realizing the age of my son/daughter, and further recognizing the scope of the area and activities
characteristic of Adventure Island, I do hereby release the Gaither High School PTSA, Gaither
High School, and all of their representatives of any claims of negligence, injury, or indemnity occurring during this event. I grant my full permission for my son/daughter to attend this event and understand this is a full evening event and my son/daughter will not be allowed to leave the theme
park until 11:30 pm on Monday, June 6, 2016.
I understand the Gaither PTSA will attempt to notify me in the event my son/daughter wants to
leave early or is not complying with school or Adventure Island regulations. I further acknowledge
that Gaither High School PTSA and their representatives are no longer responsible for my son/
daughter once they depart from Adventure Island.
EMERGENCY TREATMENT PROCEDURES
In the event of an injury to my son/daughter, I understand every attempt will be made to notify me
of the injury and realize the information below is crucial to that notification. However, if notification
is not successful at the phone number(s) listed below, I grant my full permission to the Gaither
High School PTSA, Gaither High School administration/staff, their representatives and/or Adventure Island security personnel to make decisions for the emergency care of my son/daughter with
transport by ambulance to Florida Hospital Tampa at my expense if necessary.
The following phone number(s) will be my EXACT LOCATION on Monday, June 6 th from 7:00 pm
until 12:30 am. I have provided at least one emergency number that is NOT a cell phone number
or pager. I understand the PTSA cannot be held responsible for disconnected or out-of-service
numbers used as emergency contacts.
PARENT/STUDENT SIGNATURES
Parent/Guardian (please print name)
Home Phone Number _____________________ Cell Phone Number _____________________
Parent/Guardian Signature ________________________________
Date ________________
I will abide by the rules described in this document.
Student/Guest Signature __________________________________
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Date ________________
2016-2017 MEMBERSHIP FORM
Membership # _________________
16200 North Dale Mabry Hwy.
Tampa, FL 33618
(813) 975-7340
PTSA is an organization of parents, teachers, students, administrators and community members who work to help
shape and enhance the education, learning environment, and experiences of our children. Research shows that
when parents are involved, students have increased motivation, higher self-esteem and better school attendance,
which leads to higher grades and better test scores.
By joining PTSA you are not obligating yourself to take an active role, but you are helping to support
PTSA's goals and objectives. As an individual or family member, you positively impact the Gaither community and your child’s academic growth. Your membership dollars and donations help fund the programs at Gaither.
Our PTSA sponsors many programs each year that benefit all students. Some of these are: Star Revue Talent
Show, Cowboy Express Academic Incentive Program, Senior Achievement Awards, Student & Faculty Dodgeball Tournament, Splash Bash (an alcohol-free grad party at Adventure Island), and Senior Scholarships.
***Seniors must join PTSA by December 31st in order to be eligible for PTA and/or PTSA scholarships.***
Please make your check payable to: GHS PTSA. You may drop it off at the Main Office or mail it to: Gaither
High School, 16200 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, FL 33618. If you have any questions, please call (813) 9757340, ext. 330 or email [email protected].
**Preferred Locker Selection is first choice after Seniors on September 2; student must pay $2 rental fee and be debt-free.
_____
$10
Individual PTSA Membership
_____
$35
Family PTSA Membership (up to four people)
_____
$50
Cowboy Sponsor includes Family PTSA Membership PLUS you choose one of the following:
(circle one choice) ** Preferred Locker Selection OR $10 towards PTSA Spirit Wear
_____
$100
Silver Spur Sponsor includes Family PTSA Membership PLUS **Preferred Locker Selection, 10
“Cut the Lunch Line” passes AND $20 towards PTSA Spirit Wear
_____ ________ Additional Donation (enter amount in the space to the left)
Total Amount Enclosed: $____________
Cash ____
Check ____
Membership Information:
Student: ______________________________________ Grade: ______ 2nd Per. Teacher: ____________________
Student: ______________________________________ Grade: ______ 2nd Per. Teacher: ____________________
Parent: _____________________________________________ Email:____________________________________
Parent: _____________________________________________ Email:____________________________________
Grandparent: ________________________________________ Email:____________________________________
Grandparent: ________________________________________ Email:____________________________________
Faculty Member: _____________________________________ Email:____________________________________
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THE GAITHER HIGH SCHOOL PTSA!
PTSA – Office Use Only
AMOUNT ________________ RECEIVED BY_______________
PAID BY: CHECK
CASH
CC
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Gaither High School PTSA
2015-2016 Volunteer Information
Active, involved PARENTS, GRANDPARENTS, and STUDENTS have always been an important part of the Gaither High School community.
Please consider volunteering this school year. Your participation helps Gaither maintain its high standard of excellence. Please return this form
ASAP. Several committees need volunteers beginning in late August. Thank you!
Parent(s): __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _
Student: _______________________________________________________________________ Grade:
Student: _______________________________________________________________________ Grade:
Address: _______________________________________________________________ City:
Zip:
Home Phone: ___________________________________________________________________ Work/Cell:
_
Email:
Place an “X” by areas of interest and return this form to the Main Office. Our VP/Volunteers will follow up with additional information and/or
forward your information to the appropriate committee chair.
Newsletter: Prepare monthly newsletter using Publisher or In Design.
Talent Show: Assist talent show chairperson by selling tickets during lunch and the night of the performance, assist with the set, sound/
lighting, backstage at dress rehearsal and/or at the performance. Event held annually in February.
Hospitality: Assist by baking and/or set up, serving and clean-up for teacher’s welcome back breakfast, grandparent’s breakfast and
conference night teacher dinners.
Fundraising: Sell spirit items during lunch periods on Fridays and Homecoming Week.
Membership: Assist in signing up PTSA members at Open House and at other school wide events; assist with distribution of monthly
membership incentives for students.
Teacher Appreciation: Assist by soliciting gifts, baking, setup and/or serve at annual luncheon held in May.
Cowboy Express: Assist with the school’s academic incentive program by processing applications. Applications are processed twice a year,
in November and February.
Main Office: Assist with answering phones and greeting visitors.
Media Center: Assist with clerical duties, book shelving, etc. on a weekly basis.
Student IDs: Assist by using school equipment to take photos and make ID cards. The majority of these are done in August, but help is also
needed one day per week to create IDs for new students.
Legislation and Advocacy: Communicate important state/local government issues to our school.
Splash Bash (Project Graduation Committee): Assist chairperson by meeting monthly beginning in late fall to plan this event. It is
Gaither’s all night, safe, alcohol-free, supervised graduation party held at Adventure Island. An average of 500 students attend every year.
Splash Bash Volunteer: Assist the committee by doing any or all of the following: sell tickets in May; verify permission forms; gather and/or
solicit prizes and food donations; chaperone the night of the event. Parents of students in all grades traditionally participate because senior
parents are very busy on graduation night.
Annual Student/Faculty Dodgeball Tournament: Assist with the planning and set up of this fun event held each spring that unites students,
parents and faculty.
Great American Teach In: An event held in the fall that gives parents the rewarding opportunity to share their careers with the students.
Locker and Parking Decal Sales: Assist by selling lockers and/or parking decals to students during lunch hours in August./September. Also,
assist with once a week sales of parking decals for the duration of the school year.
Copy Help: Assist staff and faculty by copying class work and other school documents one to three hours one day per week.
Senior Achievement Banquet: Assist with planning, decorating and/or serving at this annual event to honor our outstanding seniors. Over
500 people attend each year and parents of students in all grades are needed.
Reflections: Assist chairperson by encouraging participation, preparing entries for competition and honoring participants and winners of this
arts program sponsored by the National PTA.
Awards Committee: Assist chairperson in writing and submitting award applications for the annual PTA/PTSA awards program.
Scholarship Committee: Assist with promoting the PTSA scholarship program and serving on the selection committee.
Partners in Education: Liaison with area businesses to benefit Gaither High School students.
Spirit Nights Committee: Help organize and promote monthly “Spirit Nights” at area restaurants.
Dad’s Club: Let’s face it. Dad’s make a difference! Please consider being a part of this
special group of volunteers.
General: Assist as needed; willing to be contacted on an “as needed” basis for any volunteer needs that arise.
If you have any questions regarding any of these volunteer opportunities, please contact the Gaither PTSA Mailbox at (813) 975-7340, ext. 330.
Thank you for your continued support of our school and the PTSA!
32
A Message from Our Award-Winning
Silver Star Yearbook
Don't miss out on the opportunity to own a piece of high school memories. Some books may be available at
delivery for $80, but cannot guaranteed. Books can also be ordered online at Balfour.com.
Yearbook Order Form
Completed order forms and payment may be dropped off in the Main Office. Only checks or money orders
will be accepted! NO CASH! Make checks payable to Gaither High School. Books are NOT guaranteed for
sale at delivery time.
Pricing Options:
Sale Period
Price of Yearbook
May (Delivery Time - limited quantities)
$80
Customer Information:
Student’s Name: ___________________________________________________________________________
Student ID: ______________________________________ Grade: ___________
English Teacher (or 1st Period if none): _______________________________________ Date: ___________
Parent’s Name: _______________________________________ Phone Number: (
)_________________
Amount: $______________
33
Gaither High School
16200 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.
Tampa, FL 33618
Dates to Remember
Teacher Appreciation Week ............................ May 02-06, 2016
PTSA Volunteer Breakfast .................................. May 06, 2015
PTSA General Meeting ........................................ May 06, 2015
AP Exams......................................................... May 02-13, 2016
Conference Night .................................................. May 05, 2016
Women's Pop Concert ........................................... May 05, 2016
PTSA General Meeting ......................................... May 06, 2016
Band/Orchestra OPUS .......................................... May 10, 2016
Senior Achievement Awards Banquet .................. May 11, 2016
Theatre Year End Variety Show ........................... May 13, 2016
Relay for Life ................................................... May 13-14, 2016
Showcase FINALE ............................................... May 19, 2016
Baccalaureate - Gaither Auditorium ..................... May 22, 2016
Senior Exams ................................................... May 23-25, 2016
Senior Exam Make Up Dates ........................... May 26-27, 2016
Senior Sendoff ..................................................... May 27, 2016
Memorial Day ....................................................... May 30, 2016
Graduation Rehearsal - State Fairgrounds 1pm .... May 31, 2016
Seniors Last Day ................................................... June 01, 2016
Graduation Ceremony - State Fairgrounds 9am ... June 06, 2016
Splash Bash - Adventure Island ........................... June 06, 2016
Last Day of School (9:30 release) ......................... June 10, 2016
Report Card Distribution
End Grading Periods
Last one mailed home
June 10, 2016
Gaither Roundup
A Publication of Gaither High
School and Gaither PTSA
County School Board
April Griffin, Chair
Cindy Stuart, Vice Chair
Doretha W. Edgecomb
Sally A. Harris
Carol W. Kurdell
Melissa Snively
Susan L. Valdes
Superintendent of Schools
Jeff Eakins
Chief of Schools
Larry Sykes, Ed. D.
Area Superintendent Area 3
Brenda Grasso
Principal
Thomas Morrill
www.sdhc.k12.fl.us