School Initiatives

GARLOUGH GUIDELINES AND EXPECTATIONS
At Garlough teachers and staff have five expectations for student behavior — Responsibility, Effort, Safety, Respect and Kindness. These expectations for student conduct are incorporated into all aspects of each child's school day and help to make Garlough a positive environment where every person is valued and children can thrive.

The Garlough Guidelines Rap:
RESPONSIBILITY means I’m taking charge of me!
EFFORT means you try, working hard to reach the sky!
Staying SAFE at school and play, keeps us smiling every day!
R-E-S-P-E-C-T respecting you, respecting me!
Finally, KINDNESS is the key-spreading peace and harmony!
Know it. Live it. Shout out our theme. We learn together on the Garlough Team!

GEMS RECYCLES
Garlough Environmental Magnet School (GEMS) follows the 4Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rot (Compost)! 
Led by 4th graders, the GEM’s 4Rs project teaches students how to reduce waste, protect resources, extend the life of existing resources and compost food and other consumables. At GEMS the focus of the 4Rs has been on the lunchroom where children learn how to sort their waste into appropriate containers: compost, recycling or garbage. Since starting the program a few years ago, the GEMS lunchroom has completely switched to compostable/biodegradable sugarcane-based trays, drinking containers and eating utensils. Garlough is grateful to the Jeffers Foundation which provided funding for this project.

JAMMIN' MINUTE
GEMS participates in the JAM School Program which brings physical activity and health education into the classroom. JAM, which stands for just-a-minute, is designed to teach kids (and adults) healthier lifestyle habits, improve self-esteem and enhance concentration. Led by the school's physical education teachers, Garlough students and staff regularly take time out from their day to have a Jammin' Minute. 

LANDSCAPE COMMITTEE
The gardens and flowers surrounding GEMS are cared for by the school’s Landscape Committee. Parent and community volunteers donate their time and talents to beautify the school grounds, support Garlough’s focus on the environment and plan upcoming projects. New volunteers are always welcome. For more information, contact Principal Sue Powell at 651-403-8110 or susan.powell@isd197.org.

PARENTS IN EDUCATION (PIE) NIGHTS
PIE Nights are a fun opportunity for Garlough families to come together to learn about reading and math while sharing a meal. Each child that comes to PIE Night leaves with a new book!

PIE Nights are coordinated through the Garlough Title I program. Check the Garlough school calendar for upcoming PIE Night dates and times.

SUSTAINABILITY
LiveGreen is the district wide sustainability program that promotes energy saving and recycling initiatives. Each school throughout the district has a LiveGreen team. Click here to learn more about LiveGreen.

WELLNESS
To actively engage students, staff and families in physical activity and healthy eating, the District has implemented a Wellness program. Representatives from throughout the district work together on the Wellness Committee to promote nutrition and exercise initiatives. Learn more about Wellness in School District 197.

Learn about more school initiatives connected to Garlough's Environmental Magnet Theme.