• To opt-in to HCPSS Text messages, text "YES" to 67587 from the device on which you would like to receive messages.
• Be sure to click on the "Calendar" link at the top of our website for important dates throughout the school year.
• Will your child be absent?  Email fresabsence@hcpss.org.

Important Dates
December  19    PTA Culture Fest Committee Meeting
December  20    6:00 Beginning Orchestra Winter Concert at Hammond HS
December  20    7:00 Advanced Orchestra Winter Concert at Hammond HS
December  23-
January 1           Winter Break - Schools closed
January       2     Staff and students return
January       9     Club & Candid photos taken for the yearbook    
January     11     7:00 PTA meeting
January     15     Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday - Schools and Offices Closed
January     17     Professional Work & Wellness Day - schools dismiss 3 hours early (12:55)
January     17     PTA Chuck E. Cheese fundraiser
January     22     Professional Work Day - Schools closed for students

View the HCPSS Calendar in English                
View the HCPSS Calendar in Spanish
View the HCPSS Calendar in Korean
View the HCPSS Calendar in Chinese

***Want to receive HCPSS text messages regarding weather-related closing info, late bus info, etc.?  You must opt-in.  Text "YES" to 67587 from the device on which you would like to receive messages.***

School Spirit Days for 23/24
We are excited to share our school spirit days calendar for the 23/24 school year! We hope this helps families plan ahead. There may be spirit days that pop up here and there based on activities that are going on in the building, but this calendar is what we will be following. You may want to print it out, put the dates on your personal calendar, hang it on the fridge - whatever works for you to remember these fun days!

From our Administrators...

Forest Ridge Family and Friends,

We hope this message finds you all well. With just five days left until the Winter Break, we want to make sure we finish 2023 Eagle Strong! As we strive to create a positive and nurturing environment for all students at Forest Ridge ES, we are reaching out to seek your valuable support and collaboration.

Our goal is to ensure that every student feels safe, respected, and supported in their learning environment. We believe that open communication and a strong sense of community can make a significant impact in ensuring our goal. We kindly ask for your assistance in talking to your children about their behaviors at school and the impact they may have on the overall school atmosphere.

Here are a few suggestions on how you can contribute:

• *Encourage Open Dialogue: Initiate conversations with your child about their experiences at school. Create a safe space for them to express any concerns or challenges they may be facing.

• *Reinforce School Values: Remind your child about the importance of respecting others, embracing diversity, and fostering a positive school culture. Emphasize the significance of kindness and empathy in their interactions with peers and staff.

• *Stay Informed: Be aware of your child's social circles and online interactions. Staying informed about their activities can help identify potential issues early on.

• *Promote Positive Behavior: Celebrate and reinforce positive behaviors exhibited by your child. Positive reinforcement can contribute significantly to shaping a respectful and inclusive school environment.

By working together, we can create an environment where every student feels valued, respected, and ready to learn. If you have any concerns or suggestions, please feel free to reach out. Thank you for your ongoing support in making FRES a place where every student can thrive.

~ Mrs. Lannon & Ms. Pazornik

Forest Ridge News...

The Council of Elders (TCOE) Winter Basketball Camp (December 26-29)
Check out the flyer here.

Registration for BSAP Saturday Math Academy
The HCPSS Black Student Achievement Program Saturday Math Academy Spring Session is approaching! 

This year, the BSAP Saturday Math Academy will offer an in-person enrichment program for Howard County Public School System students in all levels of math for grades 3-12 based on course availability. Registration will take place online Saturday, January 6, 2024 from 9:00 a.m.- until capacity is reached. Class space is limited. Families can register by accessing the HCPSS Connect Website 

For more information, please visit:  https://news.hcpss.org/news-posts/2023/12/black-student-achievement-program-bsap-saturday-math-academy-spring-2024-program/

December Resource Newsletter
Check out the flyer here.

Howard Co. Rec & Parks January After School Activities at FRES
View the flyer here.

From the PTA...Get More PTA Info at the PTA Website

Culture Fest Committee Meeting – December 19th 6:30pm
If you are interested in joining the planning meeting for this years upcoming Culture Fest, please email kbhschools@gmail.com.

Papa John's Cards – Fundraiser ends January 5th!
Papa John's cards are back to help support the 4th grade field trip.  Valid at 150 locations around the DC, MD, VA area.  Each card is $15.  This allows UNLIMITED use of a buy 1 get 1 free on regular menu pizzas.  Cards can be purchased via emailing contact@frespta.org. These make great stocking stuffers!

PTA Meeting – January 11th
Join us for our 1st meeting of 2024!  7pm in the library.  We have lots of fun events coming up and would love your help in planning them!

Chuck E. Cheese Fundraiser – January 17th
Save the Date for this fun event at Chuck E. Cheese Laurel!

WatchD.O.G.S Sign up
Here is the calendar of remaining dates available.  Please sign up to volunteer today! 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090A4EA8AB2CAAFC1-watch3#/

Want to stay up to date on PTA information?  Follow us on facebook at Forest Ridge Elementary PTA (FRES) or visit our website at www.frespta.org for more information.

In the Community...

HCPSS Community News and Programs Site: 
In response to community requests for resources, HCPSS’ new Community News and Programs website makes it easy for families to find educational and recreational resources, events and after-school programs beyond the school day by non-profit organizations.  Community organizations requesting their announcements be shared in school newsletters should visit community-programs.hcpss.org for more information. Questions should be directed to the Public Information Office at publicinfo@hcpss.org.

HC Drug Free Events
Receive HC DrugFree's Free Newsletter: To receive HC DrugFree's free electronic newsletter packed with information for parents and opportunities for students, go to https://hcdrugfree.org/enews-signup/

Stay Informed about What’s Happening in Howard County: Sign up for HC DrugFree’s newsletter at https://hcdrugfree.org/enews-signup/ to get updates on events as well as information to keep your family safe and informed.