Coming Up in Greater Clark: Spring Break, Graduations & More
Happy Spring Break, Greater Clark families! As a reminder, schools will be closed March 16–20 as students and staff enjoy a well-deserved break.
Please also note the following important dates for the remainder of the 2025–2026 school year:
- April 13 – Teacher Development Day (No school for students)
- May 1 – No School (Oaks Day)
- May 5 – No School (Election Day)
- May 20 – Last Day of School
Graduation Ceremonies:
- May 23 – 11:00 AM New Washington High School | 1:00 PM FCharlestown High School
- May 24 – 1:00 PM Jeffersonville High School
We look forward to celebrating our students’ accomplishments and finishing the year strong!
K-12 Enrollment Opens March 23!
Mark your calendars, registration for the 2026-2027 school year opens on Monday, March 23rd.
Families of current preschool through eleventh-grade students will be receiving Snapcode letters before enrollment opens, so please keep an eye on your mailbox for this important information. The Snapcode is required to complete the registration process.
Families new to Greater Clark County Schools do NOT need a Snapcode to register.
Should you have any problems with your snapcode or registration, we are asking families to please contact:
Families of current preschool through eleventh-grade students will be receiving Snapcode letters before enrollment opens, so please keep an eye on your mailbox for this important information. The Snapcode is required to complete the registration process.
Families new to Greater Clark County Schools do NOT need a Snapcode to register.
Should you have any problems with your snapcode or registration, we are asking families to please contact:
- Elementary: Carolyn Barton, cbarton@gccschools.com
- Middle/High: Wendy Gallagher, wgallagher@gccschools.com
We can’t wait for another fantastic school year with you!
Preschool Enrollment Opens March 23 at 9:00 AM!
Incoming preschool families, mark your calendars! Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year begins March 23rd at 9:00 AM!
Any child who will be 4 years old by August 1, 2026, is eligible for our preschool program.
- Full-Day Program: $175 per week (Full Pay) or $100 per week (with approved Free/Reduced Lunch application)
- Half-Day Program: $90 per week (Full Pay) or $50 per week (with approved Free/Reduced Lunch application)
Please note: Financial assistance is available; these are our primary rates.
Transportation is available.
Transportation is available.
Families may be eligible for a 100% preschool tuition voucher or reduced tuition rate through On My Way Pre-K (OMWPK), an Indiana state-funded program that provides access to high-quality preschool for eligible families. To apply or learn more about the program, families should contact River Valley Resources directly by calling (812) 949-4381 or visiting the River Valley Resources website. Applications for On My Way Pre-K will be released the week of March 16th. Please contact River Valley Resources for more information and assistance with your application.
Families approved for Free/Reduced Price Lunch may also qualify for a reduced preschool tuition rate. Applications for Free/Reduced Lunch will be available beginning July 1 on our website under Food Services.
Greater Clark County Schools staff members are eligible for reduced tuition rates. For details, contact Brittany Mellum Schoen.
- Brittany Mellum Schoen, Preschool Supervisor – bmellum@gccschools.com
- Kellie Fox, Preschool Secretary – kfox@gccschools.com
We look forward to welcoming your child into the great world of Preschool!
Parkwood Dual Language Immersion Program
Applications for the Dual Language Immersion Program at Parkwood Elementary for the 2026-2027 school year are open now through April 2, 2026!
Now entering its second year, this innovative program is Southern Indiana’s first Dual Language Immersion Program, designed to help students become bilingual, bi-literate, and globally competitive beginning in Kindergarten. The program uses an 80/20 Two-Way Immersion Program in the early grades, with students receiving 80% of instruction in Spanish and 20% in English. Instruction gradually shifts to a balanced 50/50 model by third grade.
This program is open to incoming Kindergarten students who plan to attend Parkwood Elementary through fifth grade. Both native English and native Spanish speakers are encouraged to apply.
Academies
In February, College and Career Fairs hosted across the district created meaningful opportunities for students and participating organizations alike. Students engaged in conversations with colleges, employers, military branches, and training programs to explore career pathways, ask thoughtful questions, and better understand their next steps after high school. In turn, partners were able to share their missions, highlight opportunities afforded within their organization, and connect with students who may become future learners, employees, or service members. These fairs strengthened relationships across education and industry while reinforcing our shared commitment to preparing students for success beyond graduation.
A huge thank you goes to the Greater Clark Education Foundation, which graciously sponsored these signature events!
Full STEAM Ahead: The Science of Superheroes – Summer Science Camp
Get ready for an action-packed week where science meets superheroes! Campers will explore the real science behind superpowers through fun, hands-on STEAM activities. Students will design and test inventions, investigate flight and energy, engineer “super strength” structures, and create their own superhero gadgets.
This engaging camp builds curiosity while developing problem-solving, teamwork, and engineering skills. Join us to discover that the greatest superpower of all is science!
Who Can Attend: Students currently enrolled in K–5th grade at Greater Clark County Schools.
Blood Drive Reminder
Missed a previous blood drive? There’s still time to help save lives.
Greater Clark County Schools is partnering with the American Red Cross to host five more community blood drives this spring. Each donation helps support local hospitals and patients across our region.
Together, Greater Clark and the American Red Cross have set a goal of collecting 240 units of blood to help meet the ongoing need for lifesaving donations. Every day, someone in our community may depend on blood from a generous donor.
Blood drives hosted at our elementary and middle schools are open to the public, and appointments are strongly encouraged.
Charlestown Elementary — March 26 | 3:00–7:00 PM
Parkwood Elementary — April 8 | 4:00–8:00 PM
Parkview Middle School — April 13 | 1:00–6:00 PM
River Valley Middle School — April 15 | 2:00–7:00 PM
New Washington Elementary — May 6 | 3:00–7:00 PM
Parkwood Elementary — April 8 | 4:00–8:00 PM
Parkview Middle School — April 13 | 1:00–6:00 PM
River Valley Middle School — April 15 | 2:00–7:00 PM
New Washington Elementary — May 6 | 3:00–7:00 PM
Blood drives hosted at our high schools will be student-only events. Schools will share additional information with families as each event approaches, including student sign-up details.
Your donation can make a meaningful impact for patients in our community.
Support the community. Save a life. Be Greater.
FAFSA Deadline Reminder
Friendly reminder that the April 15 FAFSA application deadline is quickly approaching! We want to remind families of some available resources at the local and federal levels.
Beginning in April, the Ivy Tech Sellersburg Financial Aid Office will offer extended hours to help students and families complete their FAFSA. Walk-ins are welcome for families attending any school.
Beginning in April, the Ivy Tech Sellersburg Financial Aid Office will offer extended hours to help students and families complete their FAFSA. Walk-ins are welcome for families attending any school.
Extended Office Hours:
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Families can call (812) 955-5820 or email sellersburg-finaid@ivytech.edu for assistance.
Additional help is available through the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4FED-AID (1-800-433-3243) or by visiting studentaid.gov.
Federal Student Aid Hours of Operation:
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM ET
- Tuesday & Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM ET
- Thursday & Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM ET
- Saturday & Sunday: Closed
- Closed on federal holidays
Families are also encouraged to contact their student’s school counselor if they need support completing the FAFSA.
Save the Date for Parkwood's Annual Inclusion Fair - April 23!
Save the date for Parkwood Elementary’s annual Inclusion Fair on April 23 from 5:00-7:00 PM at Parkwood.
This is a fantastic event that offers families the opportunity to connect with local organizations and businesses that embrace neuro-affirming principles and celebrate diversity. Attendees will be able to access resources and enjoy a fun and engaging event!
Highlights Include:
This is a fantastic event that offers families the opportunity to connect with local organizations and businesses that embrace neuro-affirming principles and celebrate diversity. Attendees will be able to access resources and enjoy a fun and engaging event!
Highlights Include:
- Local and National Vendors
- Food
- Games & Activities
- Door Prizes
Please note this event is rain or shine!
Staff & Student Spotlights
I Have A Dream Performance
For the third consecutive year, second graders from across Greater Clark County Schools took the stage for our annual “I Have a Dream” performance. This inspiring event celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., as students share powerful messages of hope, unity, and service through music and spoken word. The performance has quickly become a treasured tradition in our district and community.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the generous sponsors who made this meaningful experience possible. Because of their support, students from across the district were able to come together and shine on stage:
- Scottie Maples
- First Savings Bank
- German American Bank
- First Harrison Bank
- Volkswagen of Clarksville
- Charlestown Coffee & Cream
- Dan Christiani
- Greater Clark Education Foundation
- Keith and Kimberly Freeman
- Patti and Jim Howard
- Lyons Roofing
- Sampan Printing
Thank you for investing in our students and helping us continue a tradition that inspires year after year.
Boys Elementary Basketball Champion
Congratulations to Pike Elementary, the 2026 Elementary Boys Basketball Champions!
Pike secured the title after an exciting championship matchup against Northaven Elementary. Both teams demonstrated outstanding teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the game, representing their schools with pride.
We are incredibly proud of our student-athletes for their hard work and dedication this season. Be sure to view the photo gallery to relive highlights from an unforgettable championship night!
New Washington Elementary Shows Support for Student
The New Washington Elementary community recently came together to show their love and support for preschool student Leyla Samartino, who is bravely battling Diffuse Midline Glioma.
Students and staff filled the halls with purple, Leyla’s favorite color, and created heartfelt notes, drawings, and encouraging messages for Leyla and her family. From colorful artwork to thoughtful words of encouragement, the outpouring of support reflected the strength and compassion of the Mustang family.
Two Jeffersonville Students Recognized in Presidential Scholars Program
Join us in congratulating Jeffersonville High School students Alice Haynes and Russell Roehm for being named candidates in the 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.
Russell and Alice are two of approximately 5,000 students nationwide selected as candidates for this prestigious program, recognized for outstanding academic achievement, leadership, character, and involvement in school and community activities.
Semifinalists will be announced this spring, with finalists named later this summer. We wish Russell and Alice the best of luck as they continue through the selection process!
Hammond Hallway Dedicated at Northaven Elementary
Northaven Elementary officially dedicated Hammond Hall just before Northaven’s annual Read Across America Parade in honor of longtime teacher Margaret Hammond.
Ms. Hammond served as a beloved educator at Northaven from 1975 to 2010, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students and staff. After her passing in 2021, the Northaven community continued to reflect on the incredible legacy she left behind.
In 2024, as the school began its expansion, Northaven invited the community to vote on ways to make navigating the building easier. Overwhelmingly, community members chose to honor Ms. Hammond by dedicating a hallway in her memory.
During her 35-year career, Ms. Hammond was known not only as an outstanding teacher but also as a cheerleading coach and a devoted classroom helper even after retirement. Many also remember her joyful leadership of the school’s annual Read Across America Parade, where she proudly dressed as the Cat in the Hat each year until her passing.
“Beyond the hallway that honors her, Ms. Hammond’s spirit lives on in Northaven’s culture,” said Principal Mrs. Morris. “She proved that high expectations and a sense of fun go hand in hand, and that’s a lesson we still live by today.”
Ms. Hammond served as a beloved educator at Northaven from 1975 to 2010, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students and staff. After her passing in 2021, the Northaven community continued to reflect on the incredible legacy she left behind.
In 2024, as the school began its expansion, Northaven invited the community to vote on ways to make navigating the building easier. Overwhelmingly, community members chose to honor Ms. Hammond by dedicating a hallway in her memory.
During her 35-year career, Ms. Hammond was known not only as an outstanding teacher but also as a cheerleading coach and a devoted classroom helper even after retirement. Many also remember her joyful leadership of the school’s annual Read Across America Parade, where she proudly dressed as the Cat in the Hat each year until her passing.
“Beyond the hallway that honors her, Ms. Hammond’s spirit lives on in Northaven’s culture,” said Principal Mrs. Morris. “She proved that high expectations and a sense of fun go hand in hand, and that’s a lesson we still live by today.”
Students Participate in Circle the State in Song Choirs
Earlier this month, students from several Greater Clark schools participated in the Circle the State Honor Choir at Indiana University Southeast.
Students represented River Valley Middle School, Charlestown Middle School, Parkview Middle School, and Charlestown, Pike, Parkwood, New Washington, Northaven, and Utica elementary schools.
These talented singers joined students from across Indiana for a special performance, showcasing the music they prepared with the support of their choir directors and music teachers. Experiences like the Circle the State Honor Choir give students the opportunity to collaborate with peers from across the state, build confidence, and continue developing their musical talents.
We are incredibly proud of our student performers and the dedication they bring to the arts in Greater Clark County Schools. 🎶
New Washington Elementary Experiences Mobile Agriculture in the Classroom
New Washington Elementary third graders recently had the opportunity to participate in a Mobile Agriculture Day, thanks to a Youth Innovators Empowering Agriculture Across America Grant.
During the course, students took part in an embryology lesson led by 4-H Extension Educator Katie Whiteford. As part of the experience, the class received an incubator with hatching eggs and spent 21 days observing the incubation and hatching process.
This hands-on learning opportunity allowed students to explore agriculture and science in an engaging and memorable way! We are so grateful our students were able to take part in such an immersive educational experience.
CMS Clark County Wrestling Champs
Join us in congratulating the Charlestown Middle School Wrestling team for being named Clark County Wrestling Champions! Way to go, Pirates!
NWMS Wrestling!
Congratulations to New Washington Middle School wrestlers Dylan Vaden, Jaxon White, and Aiden Mattingly for their strong performances at the Highland Hills Competition, where they competed against 22 other teams.
Dylan Vaden earned 2nd place, Aiden Mattingly finished 4th, and Jaxon White secured 5th place. These student-athletes demonstrated outstanding perseverance, hard work, and determination on the mat.
We are proud of their accomplishments and the way they represented the Mustang community!
New Washington High School Student Receives DAR Good Citizen Award
Congratulations to New Washington High School senior Denika Felker, who has been named the recipient of the Good Citizen Award presented by the Ann Rogers Clark Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR).
The DAR Good Citizens Award and Scholarship Contest, established in 1934, recognizes high school seniors who demonstrate the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools, and communities. Students are selected by their school based on these character traits and their overall involvement and impact.
Only one student from each participating high school is selected each year as that school’s DAR Good Citizen. After being selected, students may also participate in an essay contest that advances to the chapter, state, and national levels, where scholarship opportunities are available.
Denika’s recognition reflects her strong character, leadership, and commitment to serving others, qualities that make her an outstanding representative of New Washington High School and the Greater Clark community.
Charlestown High School Students Receive Honors at FCCLA State Conference
Students from Greater Clark County Schools earned impressive honors at the recent FCCLA State Conference. FCCLA, which stands for Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, is a national student organization that helps students develop leadership skills and explore career pathways through Family and Consumer Sciences education.
Several students brought home top awards. Joselyn Johnson and Ronan Buckner were elected as State Officers for the 2026–2027 school year. National qualifiers include Matthew Ageves, Keyser Johnson, Kolton Goforth, Aiden Sirk, Vanessa Del la Llana, and Avery Bohanon for their Gold-winning Parliamentary Procedure Project, Ronan Buckner for his Gold Teach and Train Project, and Joselyn Johnson, who earned Silver in Early Childhood Education.
Additional honors included Gold for Dahlia Lopez and Natasha Rivera in the Child Care Learning PAC Project, Silver for Bella Tolliver, Desaray Cornelius, Caroline Pickles and Riley Simms, and Kynlee Vendever, and Bronze for Brian Barrett and Andy Aragon in the Baking and Pastry Event.
Students who qualified will compete at the FCCLA National Leadership Conference, July 6–10 in Washington, D.C. Congratulations to all of our students and their teacher, Mrs. Neff, on these outstanding accomplishments.