Family Newsletter

April 2026

Dear FCS Families,


April begins with a warm welcome back from Spring Break and plenty to look forward to in the weeks ahead. Across our schools, there is excitement around upcoming celebrations, meaningful milestones, and important learning moments as the year continues to unfold. Thank you for being part of a school community that supports students every step of the way and helps them stay Safe, Connected, and Thriving.

FCS in Action

Photo collage of students from the district.
Photo collage of students from the district.

District Honors and Celebrations



25-26 FCS Teacher of the Year


Forsyth County Schools is proud to announce Terri Barrilleaux, third grade teacher at Haw Creek Elementary School, as the 2026 Forsyth County Schools Teacher of the Year!

25-26 FCS Nurse of the Year

Karen Surio

Lambert High School

25-26 FCS Counselor of the Year 

Allison Rinehart

East Forsyth High School

FCS Earns Excellent Financial Efficiency Rating


Forsyth County Schools has earned a 4.5-star rating on the State of Georgia’s 2025 Financial Efficiency Star Rating, reflecting the district’s strong academic performance alongside responsible, efficient use of financial resources. FCS is one of only 15 school districts in Georgia to earn a financial efficiency rating of 4.5 or higher.


Read the full press release here.



FCS Approves Partnership to Enhance School Bus Transportation


Forsyth County Schools is enhancing school bus transportation with a new partnership focused on safety, efficiency, and communication. Learn how families will be able to track their child’s bus and more here!


Have You Heard

the Good Word?


We regularly update our online news hub, Safe, Connected, Thriving, with highlights from across the district. Check out some of our top stories here:


FCS Online News


K-5 Music Resource Review

Parents and community members are invited to review instructional resources being considered for adoption for K-5 Music. Resources will be located at the Board of Education, located at 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, Georgia 30040. Please check in with the front desk on arrival. All materials are available for review from April 13, 2026 through May 1, 2026.

Each year, the Georgia Department of Education makes available a survey to families of all students with disabilities to measure parent/family needs and perceptions. This survey helps the state to determine parents' perception of the success of parent engagement between them and the schools. The data collected from this survey is reported in the Annual Performance Report and on the system profile of each school system. The survey link is available below. Our mission at Forsyth County Schools would be to receive "Strongly Satisfied" and "Very Strongly Satisfied" scores in this survey. If that is not your perception, please contact us and let us know how we can remedy this. The IDEA Parent Survey is open through May 31, 2026.  


Direct Survey Link 

Understanding State Assessments

One Piece of the Learning Puzzle


Each spring, students participate in state assessments such as end-of-grade and end-of-course tests. These assessments are an important part of the educational process and provide valuable information about how well students are mastering the academic standards taught throughout the school year. State assessments help teachers, schools, and districts measure how effectively students are learning key skills in areas such as reading, writing, mathematics, and science. The results highlight strengths and help identify areas where students may benefit from additional support. Teachers use this information to reflect on instruction, adjust teaching strategies, and plan learning experiences that better meet the needs of students. Assessment results are also used to monitor growth across the district and ensure that schools are providing strong learning opportunities for all students. By analyzing these results, educators can make informed decisions about resources, curriculum, and programs that support student success.


It is important to remember that these assessments provide a snapshot of learning at a specific point in time, but they are not the only way student learning is measured. Classroom activities, projects, daily assignments, observations, and ongoing teacher assessments all play an important role in understanding how students grow throughout the year. When combined, these different pieces give educators a greater picture of each student’s learning journey.


Families play an important role in helping students feel confident and prepared during testing season. Here are a few ways you can support your child and help reduce testing stress:


  • Keep the focus on learning and growth. 

Remind your child that these assessments show what they have learned throughout the year.

  • Promote a positive mindset.

Encourage positive self-talk and remind your child that the test is only one piece of the learning puzzle. 

  • Maintain consistent routines. 

A good night’s sleep and a nutritious breakfast can help students feel focused and prepared for the day ahead.

  • Help build confidence. 

Remind your child of the progress they have made and the skills they have developed this school year. 

  • Encourage and affirm their hard work.

Let them know you notice the hard work they are putting into their learning and on testing days.


Families looking for more information and resources to support their child during assessment, including the district assessment calendar, can visit the Forsyth County School Assessment webpage.

LAUNCH Senior Summit


Attention Seniors: LAUNCH Senior Summit 2026 will be held on April 14 from 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM at the Forsyth Conference Center! This event will help seniors prepare for life after graduation with sessions on budgeting, time management, employability skills, and more. Transportation and lunch are provided, but space is limited—students are encouraged to register soon using the link below!


For more information, click here.

FCS graduating seniors are invited to join their elementary and middle school Senior Walk events at the times listed above.

Kindergarten Round Up Is Here

Kindergarten student registration appointments are open for the 26/27 school year.


Each elementary school has a kindergarten registration week listed on the flyer. Any 26/27 student can register for the upcoming school year beginning May 4, 2026.


For more information, click here.

A graphic of Kindergarten Registration dates

Rising Kindergarten Families

Interested in the Spanish Dual Language Immersion (DLI) Program in Forsyth County Schools?


Learn more and apply by visiting the FCS DLI webpage.


APR 12-16 Exceptional Children’s Week

APR 12-16 National Library Week

APR 15 Purple Up! For Military Kids Day

APR 20-24 National Public School Volunteer Week

APR 22 National Administrative Professionals Day

APR 28 National School Bus Driver Appreciation Day

*April is Month of the Military Child, National Autism Awareness Month, and National Occupational Therapy Month.

A Safe, Connected, & Thriving Community for All

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Forsyth County Schools | 1120 Dahlonega Highway | Cumming, GA 30040 US