December 20, 2024 Forest Ridge Forerunner

IMPORTANT DATES
December 21-January 1 - Winter Break - schools closed
January       7 Club & candid photos taken for the yearbook
January     15  PTA Restaurant Night – Blaze Pizza 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
January     16 7:00 PTA Meeting – Virtual
January     22 6:00-7:30 PVMS Rising 6th Grade Family Orientation (see below)
January     28 Paint Night
February     1 Culture Fest

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.  FRES parents will need to opt-in from the phone that receives messages on the number we have on file for them.  Text YES to 67587.
  • Will your child be absent?  Email fresabsence@hcpss.org.

From our Administrators...

Dear Forest Ridge Families,

This week has been filled with incredible moments that highlight the talent, dedication, and heart of our students and staff.

On Monday, our Super Squads Cheerleaders performed at halftime during the Hammond HS varsity girls' basketball game, and they did an absolutely fabulous job! A huge thank you to Mrs. May and Ms. Durkin for their tireless efforts in guiding the squad and ensuring their success.

Tuesday evening was the highly anticipated Orchestra Winter Concert, and it was a tremendous hit! We are incredibly proud of all the students who performed, and we extend our deepest appreciation to Mrs. De Orio for her hard work and passion in preparing them for this special event.

Wednesday evening, our annual Kindergarten Gingerbread House Making event was a joyous occasion. The kids had a blast decorating their houses, and it was heartwarming to see so much creativity. While some candy made its way into tummies, much of it ended up on gingerbread houses, creating memories that will last for years to come.

As we head into the winter break, we want to take a moment to wish everyone a safe and joyful holiday, no matter how you celebrate. This time of year reminds us to reflect on our many blessings. Let’s remember that not everyone is as fortunate, and in the spirit of giving, let’s be mindful of those who may need extra kindness and support during the holiday season. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of others, and we encourage everyone to spread warmth, generosity, and compassion.

We are truly grateful for the wonderful community we have here at Forest Ridge, and we look forward to all the exciting things ahead in the New Year!

Warm regards,

Mrs. Lannon & Ms. Pazornik

Forest Ridge Elementary School Fundraiser
We are incredibly grateful to the community for their outstanding support and generosity in helping us raise funds for our school. This is our 2nd time doing the Nothing Bundt Cakes fundraiser and it was a huge success!

After totalling all the orders, we sold a whopping 675 bundtlets! Below are some fun facts from the fundraiser:

  • Top Flavors > Red Velvet (120), Chocolate Chocolate Chip (92), Lemon (83)
  • Total Sales > $4,725.00
  • Total Profit to FRES > $1,350.00

We are excited to announce the 2 winners of the Principal for the Day and Assistant Principal for the Day! These two students were the TOP 2 fundraisers and we will be reaching out to their families to set up a date for the special day that will happen in January.

Congratulations to:

  • Principal for the Day > Brielle S. (sold 141 = $987.00)
  • Assistant Principal for the Day > Derek J. (sold 51 = $357.00)

Forest Ridge News...

PVMS Rising 6th Gr Family Orientation
On January 22 Patuxent Valley Middle School will be hosting out Rising 6th Grade Family Orientation from 6pm to 7:30pm in the school cafeteria.   Come and learn more about middle school, the academic schedule, and the Gifted and Talented program, and get a chance to see the building and meet some of our amazing staff and students.  Contact RIchard Smart, richard_smart@hcpss.org with questions.

Do you have a child who will be 5 years old by September 1, 2025?
Please save the date for an upcoming Road to Kindergarten parent information session. All sessions will run 6:30-7:30 p.m. and cover the same content.  Learn more.

From the ChildFind Office
Attention Parents of Rising Kindergarteners: Don't Wait for Summer to Address Developmental Concerns!
If you have concerns about your child's development - whether it's their speech, motor skills, social skills or learning - it's important to act now. Waiting until the summer for a referral can delay crucial support that your child may need before starting kindergarten.Contact us today to schedule a screening. Let's work together to ensure your child has the best possible start in kindergarten!Call 410-313-7046 or email ChildFind@hcpss.org

WatchDOGS Sign Up Link
Interested in being a WatchDOG?  Sign up here.

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

Restaurant Night - Blaze Pizza
It’s another no cook Wednesday at Blaze Pizza! Blaze will donate 20% of sales to the FRES PTA to support our activities and programs for students, families and staff.  Bring the flyer for in-store purchase or use promo code 1037A for online orders. Blaze Flyer

Last Call!  5th Grade Fundraiser Papa John's BOGO Cards
Last call to get your Papa John’s cards. This card allows UNLIMITED use of a buy 1 get 1 free on regular menu pizzas through December 31, 2025. They are valid at 150 locations around the DC, MD, VA area.  Cards are $15 each & $10 of that goes straight to our school. Order online here Order Papa John's Card

FRES Car Magnets for Sale!
The PTA is selling school spirit car magnets. Holiday Sale price is $5.00 each!!!  Orders can also be placed online here Order Car Magnet and the magnets will be delivered to your child’s classroom. View the Flyer

Culture Fest
Save the date for the annual FRES PTA Culture Fest!!!  Saturday, February 1st from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm.  Interested in assisting with the Culture Fest please email president@frespta.org.

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.