|
Dear FCS Families,
The school year is off to a great start, and it's been wonderful seeing our school communities settle into their routines. This month, we're celebrating our Teachers of the Year, sharing important dates and events, and keeping you up to date on what's happening across Forsyth County Schools.
Thank you for being such an important part of our school community.
| |
We want to hear from you! FCS is asking families to share feedback on:
1 - Experiences in Our Schools
2 - 2028 - 2029 Student Calendar
Please take a few minutes to complete the survey and share your perspective.
| The District Improvement Survey is open through October 8, 2026 | The Student Calendar Survey is open through September 23, 2026 | All survey responses are anonymous. Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. Your perspective matters, and we appreciate your partnership in helping FCS continue to serve our students and families well. | | Lily Reese Miller
West Forsyth High School | | |
Prashu Raithatha
West Forsyth High School
| | |
Samantha de Haan
Forsyth Central HS
| |
FCS Students Named to Georgia's Nineteen Under Nineteen
Junior Achievement of Georgia announced its third class of Nineteen Under Nineteen: Students to Watch, recognizing nineteen remarkable young people from across the state for their leadership, innovation, and impact. Three of this year’s honorees are students from Forsyth County Schools, including Samantha de Haan (Forsyth Central HS), Lily Reese Miller (West Forsyth HS), and Prashu Raithatha (West Forsyth HS). Congratulations to these three inspiring students who are making a difference across our community!
| |
Congratulations, FCS Teachers of the Year!
We are proud to recognize our 2026 - 27 Teachers of the Year! These outstanding educators go above and beyond each day to inspire students and create meaningful learning experiences that make a difference in their school communities.
See a complete list of winners HERE.
| | Terri Barrilleaux, Haw Creek Teacher | |  | Joanna Beaudine, Haw Creek Teacher | | |
FCS Teachers Recognized By Georgia Department of Education
Congratulations to Haw Creek Elementary School teachers, Terri Barrilleaux and Joanna Beaudine, who were both recognized by the Georgia Department of Education as Accomplished Teachers this year!
This distinction was given to teachers who continually demonstrate exemplary practices in the areas of Teacher Leadership, Continuous Learning, and Contribution to the Profession. After a rigorous application process, these dedicated teachers were awarded this five-year designation and will have the opportunity to serve on state-level advisory teams throughout the year to represent Forsyth County Schools.
| | Hispanic Heritage Month celebrated with the Board of Education at the September Work Session | |
Hispanic Heritage Month Recognized by BOE
The Forsyth County Board of Education has proclaimed September 15 through October 15 as National Hispanic Heritage Month. This annual observance celebrates the histories and contributions of Hispanic Americans and recognizes the important role Hispanic families play in our schools and community.
| | | This year's theme, "Unidos, Somos Más" ("Together, We Are More"), highlights the strength found in unity and the values of family, resilience, culture, and service. We invite all students, staff, and families to join in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. | | | | |
FCS Together At The Table
When schools and community come together, students are at the center.
At Together at the Table, Forsyth County Schools principals invited a community member to join them for conversation, connection and a closer look at the wrap-around services helping students and families thrive.
Together, we create the connections that help every student feel safe, supported and ready to succeed.
| | |
| |
Free and Reduced Application
Your child may be eligible if your household receives benefits such as EBT and/or cash assistance or meets guidelines based on income and household size.
You may apply for free school meals at any time if your income or circumstances changes.
Contact Paula Vaughan at pvaughan@forsyth.k12.ga.us or 770-888-3473 ext. 310314 for more information.
Visit the Free and Reduced Website for more information.
| | | |
Forsyth County Marching Band Exhibition
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of music and school spirit as all seven Forsyth County high school marching bands take the field for the 2026 Forsyth County Marching Band Exhibition on Wednesday, October 21, at the West Forsyth High School Stadium. National Anthem is at 6:25 PM with the first performance beginning at 7:00 PM.
Our annual showcase celebrates the incredible dedication, talent, and countless hours of practice invested by our student musicians and color guard performers. From summer rehearsals to Friday Night Lights, these students work tirelessly to perfect their craft, demonstrating teamwork, discipline, creativity, and excellence every step of the way.
Featuring performances by West Forsyth, South Forsyth, Forsyth Central, North Forsyth, Denmark, East Forsyth, and Lambert High Schools, the exhibition offers families and community members a unique opportunity to experience the outstanding marching arts programs that help make Forsyth County Schools a leader in Fine Arts education.
Join us as we celebrate the passion, perseverance, and remarkable achievements of our marching band students. You won't want to miss this spectacular showcase of talent and pride from across Forsyth County!
| |
Pathway MOTIVE8 Parent Information Night
October 12, 2026
Session Options: 5:00–6:00 p.m. or 7:00–8:00 p.m.
FoCAL Center | 1150 Dahlonega Hwy., Cumming
Attention 8th-grade families! Explore high school opportunities in CTAE and Fine Arts, specialty programs, dual enrollment, internships, and planning a successful high school journey. Hear from students and program representatives and discover how to help your student MOTIVE8 their future!
| | | |
Attendance Counts: Keeping Your Child Healthy & Ready for School
If your child has a chronic health condition, such as allergies, asthma, seizures, diabetes, or another medical condition, please make sure the school has an up-to-date care plan on file as applicable. These plans help our school nurses and staff provide safe, appropriate care, and respond to your child’s health needs during the school day.
Care plan forms are available on the FCS Health Services website.
| |
When Should Your Child Stay Home?
To help keep our school community healthy, please keep your child home when they are ill. Students should remain at home if they have any of the following:
-
Fever: A temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Students may return to school after they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication.
-
Vomiting or Diarrhea: Students should remain home until they have been free of symptoms for at least 24 hours without medication.
-
Contagious Illness: If an antibiotic is prescribed for a contagious illness, students should stay home until they have taken the medication for at least 24 hours, when applicable.
-
Cough or Respiratory Symptoms: Students may return when symptoms have improved and they are able to comfortably participate in school activities.
-
Rash: Students should remain home until the rash has been evaluated and determined to be non-contagious or the symptoms have resolved.
Overall wellness: Your child's symptoms have improved, and they can comfortably participate in school activities.
| | | |
Forsyth County Schools College Fair
September 16, 2026
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Denmark High School
645 Mullinax Road
Alpharetta, GA 30004
Optional Workshop:
5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Understanding the U.S. College Application Process
Register at https://www.scholartrek.com/forsyth
| | This event is open to all FCS 9th-12th grade students and parents. With over 80 colleges in attendance, families can learn more about admissions requirements, unique programs and majors, scholarship opportunities, and more! Pre-registration is preferred. | | September is Suicide Prevention Month | |
Connection Starts With You
September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to focus on the power of connection. One of the most important protective factors for young people is having caring adults who help them feel seen, heard, valued, and supported.
Know the Signs: What to Watch For
Changes in Behavior
- Pulling away from friends, family, or activities they once enjoyed and spending more time alone.
- Loss of interest in hobbies, sports, or other favorite activities.
Changes in Mood or Daily Habits
- Ongoing sadness, hopelessness, feelings of worthlessness, or feeling like a burden.
- Changes in sleep, appetite, energy levels, or daily routines.
Things They Say or Do
- Talking about death, dying, wanting to disappear, or feeling hopeless.
- Giving away treasured possessions or saying goodbye in unusual ways.
How You Can Help
Start the Conversation
- Let your child know you care and ask open-ended questions such as, “How have you been feeling lately?” or “What’s been weighing on your mind?”
- Listen calmly, without judgment, and give them space to share.
Stay Connected
- Help your child identify trusted adults and supportive people they can turn to.
- Check in regularly and remind them they do not have to face challenges alone.
Reach Out for Help
- Contact your child’s school counselor, school social worker, or a mental health professional if you have concerns.
- Call or text 988 for free, confidential support available 24/7.
Resources
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988
Georgia Crisis & Access Line (GCAL): 1-800-715-4225
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Remember: You do not need to have all the answers. Simply being present, listening, and staying connected can make a meaningful difference in a young person’s life.
| | |
|
Forsyth County Schools K-12 Transition Workshops
We are pleased to offer transitional workshops focused on the needs of students of developmental and/or intellectual disabilities.
September 17, 2026
6:00 PM
NOW/COMP Waiver
Guest Speaker: Stacey Lane, BCBA, Intake Coordinator with DBHDD Region 1 Field Office
Click HERE to register.
| | | A Safe, Connected, & Thriving Community for All | | | Forsyth County Schools | 1120 Dahlonega Highway | Cumming, GA 30040 US |
| | | |
