Dear Parents;

Greetings and welcome back to The Forrest! The 2022-23 school year promises to be the best yet, and there is a palpable sense of excitement and confidence on campus as we begin the year mask-free, additionally staffed and ready to take our school to the next level.

My optimism is grounded in the fact that we’re coming off of a spring that not only produced the highest year-end data we’ve ever had, but also saw us awarded official designation as a STEM school by Cognia. These are both indicators that our hard work over the past few years is producing tangible results. The processes and policies we’ve established are leading to positive student outcomes, and our highly-qualified teachers will continue to deliver personalized, engaging and rigorous instruction to every student, every day.

We have added new teaching units to reduce classroom sizes, and hired another interventionist to support students at every level. Our academic foci this year include developing the literacy/writing connection and teaching applied mathematics through STEM activities. These initiatives are in line with the TCS Strategic Plan and will be bolstered through our ongoing partnerships with The University of Alabama and AMSTI.

Your child’s health and safety are also an ongoing concern. Social-emotional learning and student well-being will continue to be an integral part of our daily instruction. We strive to create a holistic and inclusive educational experience, and foster a school culture of self-growth, respect and kindness. School safety is another top priority at Woodland Forrest, and we take this charge seriously. We have a full-time SRO (police officer) on campus and the entire staff regularly reviews and practices safety protocols and drills. Our campus is secure, but open. I need parents here in The Forrest. Join our PTA, volunteer in a classroom, visit your child at lunch, conference with their teacher, and be on the lookout for school-wide events for the entire family.

As always, my promise to you is that I will do everything I can to ensure that WFES is a true partner for all stakeholders and fulfills its part of the learning contract. Please feel free to contact me at any time with questions or concerns. Your participation, input and feedback are always welcome.

Regards,

Brian Rose