GCSD9 Top-10 Things You Need to Know 

Granite City, Ill., August 6, 2024 – Granite City Community Unit School District #9 released the Top-10 Things you Need to Know for the start of the 2024-25 school year.

1. Start of School - GCSD9 Bell Schedule
Our first day of student attendance is Thursday, August 15 for 1st through 12th grade. Kindergarten's first day of school is Friday, August 16, while Pre-K begins on Tuesday, August 20. Please refer to your school’s Bell Schedule for your start and end time.

2. School Handbooks - GCSD9 Student Handbooks
All school handbooks are on the district website. Per the Dress Code Policy, P.E. uniforms are not required. 

3. Parent Communication - GCSD9 Skyward
We strongly encourage parents to take roles in their children’s educational experience. Please sign up for Skyward access where you will be able to view your student’s grades, communicate with their teacher, etc. Please update any new information, including changes in your phone number, mailing address, or email address with Student Services. They can be reached at 618-451-5800, Ext. 2021.

4. After School Programs
GCSD9 has after school programs through the YMCA with Y Club (latchkey) and also through Coordinated Youth and Human Services {CYHS} with Teen-Reach Program.

Teen Reach - 618-610-6508 - teenreach@cyhs.com
YMCA Y Club - 618-876-7200 - emily.scott@gwrymca.org

5. Transportation - GCSD9 Bus Routes
Transportation applications must be completed annually. Students must sit in their assigned seats and follow safety rules at all times. Transportation privileges will be suspended/terminated for violations of student Code of Conduct or Safety Rules. For instructions to download the FirstView App, please click HERE or call First Student at 618-500-6550.

6. Student Cell Phones and Devices
Students may not use cell phones, smart watches or other such devices during school hours in a manner that disrupts the educational learning environment. Please call your student’s school office, and the office staff will deliver the message. Thank you for not enabling or encouraging your child to violate this policy.

7. Safety and Security Protocol 
Exterior doors are locked at all times, requiring visitors to enter through a single visitor vestibule. Photo ID is required to enter the building. Visitors must remain in their designated part of the building at all times. 

8. Health Expectations - GCSD9 Health Requirements
Every student must have (1) current immunization records or (2) an approved, notarized Statement of Exemption. The only exception to this requirement is for students who are experiencing homelessness. This information must be on file no later than October 15, 2024, or within 30 days of enrollment.

9. Family and Student Resources/Meals - Breakfast & Lunch Menus
Breakfast and lunch are free for all students. Students may bring their lunch, but will not have access to a refrigerator or microwave. No outside food deliveries are allowed for students. 

10. School Supplies - GCSD9 School Supply Lists
Each school has their supply requests listed on our website in English and Spanish. If you need assistance with school supplies for your Student, please contact their school office or social worker.

For more information about Granite City School District #9, visit www.gcsd9.net.