Granbury Middle School named “A Texas School to Watch”

On Feb. 17, Granbury Middle School was named a “School to Watch” in Texas. The distinction comes from the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals.

According to the TASSP, “A Texas School to Watch is a school that consistently has moved to meet fully the nationally endorsed criteria for high-performing middle schools; one that has made marked progress in meeting all these criteria, including measurable gains in the academic achievement of all students over time, and is committed to continuous improvement. These schools will serve as models and mentors for other schools seeking to improve.”

A school seeking the distinction must fill out an application which includes a self-study rating rubric, information regarding the school demographics and characteristics, suspension and programmatic data, sharing any special recognitions the school has received, discussing the collaboration at the school, plans for the future, and recent changes.

“We are humbled, honored and excited that GMS has been recognized. We have a great group of administrators, staff, students and parents,” Tim Petty, seventh grade history teacher shared. “All of these groups work hard each day to make a difference in student learning and student lives. We are proud to represent the great qualities of GISD and GMS.”

Annie Dueck, a GMS Technology in Action teacher shared why she thinks the school was distinguished as a school to watch.

“I think it was because we have overcome so many challenges and made significant growth in multiple areas,” Dueck said. “It was also due to the feedback and reflection from a diverse group of parents, students, staff and community members. I also believe that our campus administration is the main driving force that has brought all of these pieces together and made it possible.”

Dueck also noted that the energy and dedication of the staff is special as well as the fire among the staff to improve and make GMS the best it can be.

“We love each other and are on the same team working toward the same goals — to love and help our students. We don’t compete with each other; we learn from and encourage and support each other. This is an amazing achievement, but we are not done yet.”