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Dear Woodside Elementary School Families,
My name is Lorie Barnes and I am beyond excited to be your new principal. This will be my eighteenth year in Anne Arundel County and I am looking forward to working with all of the students, families, and staff here at Woodside Elementary School.
Prior to coming to Woodside, I was principal at Severna Park Elementary, an assistant principal at Monarch Global Academy, and a classroom teacher in Glen Burnie and Jessup. I am also a mother of two small children and understand the importance of providing a safe and nurturing environment for all students and families.
Last year, WES became a Community Based School. Through this initiative, we have been able to increase opportunities for children and families in various ways. A Community School is part of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future and has allowed us to provide after school programming and tutoring for our children as well as adult learning for parents and caregivers.
WES is also greatly supported by our small, but mighty PTA! Thanks to our PTA, our families have been able to enjoy the Fall and Winter Carnival, Holiday Activities, and book fairs. Please join the PTA in this work, there is no amount of volunteer work that is too small. We would love to have your support! This year, the PTA has already purchased academic planners for all students!
I will be communicating with families via a monthly newsletter. In this publication, we will provide you with important information about school events and policies.
Finally, each year we select a school theme that helps anchor our work to a specific idea or focus. This year, our theme is “Grow Together, Shine Forever.” Our staff gravitated towards this theme because it embodies the spirit of a community growing together, working together, and at the same time creating a future that is full of hope and pride. “Grow Together, Shine Forever” is also the slogan for the 2024 Olympic events, which is around the corner. Students and families will see several Olympic themed events this year, as the Olympics help remind us that diversity and teamwork help to build strong communities.
We look forward to working with you and your child during the 2023-2024 school year!
Please do not hesitate to contact your child’s teacher or me if you have any questions or concerns. I’m looking forward to an amazing school year!
Sincerely,
Lorie Barnes
