As the summer sun begins to wane and the leaves start to turn, it's time to lace up those sneakers and sharpen those pencils - the new school year is upon us! Forest Hills, with its vibrant community and commitment to education, is gearing up to welcome back students with open arms and a wealth of exciting opportunities. Let's dive into what's in store for the upcoming academic year.
Back to School Events: A Warm Welcome
Forest Hills is kicking off the new year with a series of back-to-school events designed to ease the transition and foster a sense of community. Mark your calendars for the following happenings:
- Meet the Teacher Night: An opportunity for parents and students to meet educators, explore classrooms, and familiarize themselves with the school layout. (Date: August 25th)
- Back-to-School Picnic: A fun-filled evening of games, food, and camaraderie, perfect for reconnecting with old friends and making new ones. (Date: August 28th)
Academic Excellence: New Programs and Initiatives
Forest Hills is committed to providing students with a well-rounded, challenging, and engaging educational experience. This year, the district is rolling out several new programs and initiatives to enhance learning:
- 1:1 Technology Program: Every student in grades 6-12 will receive a Chromebook, enabling seamless integration of technology into the classroom and promoting digital literacy.
- Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Curriculum: Forest Hills is expanding its SEL programming to help students develop essential skills like self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
- Expanded STEAM Programming: The district is expanding its Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math offerings, including new robotics and coding classes, as well as enhanced art and music programs.
Sports and Extracurricular Activities: Something for Everyone
Forest Hills offers a wide array of sports and extracurricular activities, designed to help students develop skills, build confidence, and cultivate a sense of belonging. From athletics and clubs to arts and service-learning opportunities, there's something for every interest and ability:
| Sports | Clubs and Activities |
|---|---|
| Football, Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, Baseball, Softball, Track & Field, and more! | Chess Club, Student Council, Yearbook, National Honor Society, Environmental Club, and many others. |
Health and Safety: Prioritizing Our Students
Forest Hills is dedicated to providing a safe and healthy learning environment for all students. This year, the district is implementing several new health and safety measures, including:
- Enhanced Cleaning Protocols: Increased cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces throughout the school day.
- Mental Health Support: Expansion of mental health services, including additional counselors and social workers, to support students' emotional well-being.
- Safety Drills and Training: Regular safety drills and staff training to ensure a swift and effective response in case of an emergency.
As we embark on this new academic journey, let's remember that it's the collective effort and dedication of our students, families, educators, and community members that make Forest Hills such a special place. Here's to an exciting, engaging, and successful school year ahead!
