Weekly Newsletter 6/8/26-8/12/26

We are proud to share that on June 1st, Forestdale School was recognized by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation's Safe Routes to School Program for Exemplary Programming in Physical Education. The award was presented at a ceremony held at the Massachusetts State House in Boston and highlights Forestdale's commitment to promoting student wellness, physical activity, and lifelong healthy habits.

This recognition is a direct result of the innovative work of our physical education teachers, Nikki DeNardo and Kristin MacDonald, who developed and implemented a highly engaging bicycle and scooter unit that teaches students balance, coordination, safety, and confidence while encouraging an active lifestyle. The Safe Routes to School Program also recognized the outstanding participation and enthusiasm shown by our students and families during our Fall and Spring Walk, Ride, and Roll to School Days, which continue to strengthen our culture of health and wellness.

This achievement would not have been possible without the support of our community partners. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Sandwich Elementary PTA for funding the fleet of bicycles and scooters that make this program possible, and to Ride-A-Way Adventures and Dave Milligan for their ongoing assistance with maintenance and upkeep of the equipment.

This award is a testament to what can be accomplished when educators, families, community partners, and students work together toward a common goal. We are incredibly proud of this recognition and grateful to everyone who has contributed to making Forestdale a place where healthy, active lifestyles are encouraged and celebrated every day.

On the final day of school, Thursday, June 25th, Forestdale School will celebrate the retirement of Health Teacher Julie Crosby after a distinguished career of service to the students and families of the Sandwich Public Schools.

Throughout her career, Mrs. Crosby made a lasting impact on countless students as a dedicated and caring first-grade teacher at both Henry T. Wing School and Forestdale School before transitioning to her current role as Health Teacher in September 2021. Whether in the classroom or teaching students about healthy choices and wellness, Mrs. Crosby has consistently fostered a nurturing environment where children felt supported, valued, and inspired to learn.

Joining her in retirement is her husband, Bill Crosby, a former fourth-grade teacher at Oak Ridge School and currently serves as Principal of Eastham Elementary School. Together, the Crosbys have devoted decades of their lives to public education and have positively influenced generations of students across Cape Cod.

Please join me in thanking Mrs. Crosby for her years of dedication and commitment to the children of Sandwich.

We wish them a retirement filled with joy, adventure, relaxation, and many cherished moments with their children, grandchildren, and, of course, our beloved therapy dog, Cisco.

Last week, Align Dance owner Savannah Vaughn spent time with our first-grade students, providing an engaging and energetic experience centered on movement, self-expression, and wellness. Through dance, students had the opportunity to develop body awareness, build confidence, and practice important self-regulation skills in a fun and supportive environment.

The session highlighted the powerful connection between movement and social-emotional well-being, giving students strategies to manage their emotions, increase focus, and positively channel their energy. Activities like these help students strengthen their ability to regulate their bodies and minds, skills that directly support learning, classroom engagement, and overall success in school.

We are grateful to Savannah and Align Dance for partnering with Forestdale to provide our students with meaningful experiences that promote both physical and emotional wellness. The joy, enthusiasm, and participation demonstrated by our first graders made the impact of the visits evident throughout the week.

Last week, our second-grade students proudly opened their Turtle Gift Store for first-grade and kindergarten students. As part of this authentic, student-driven learning experience, students designed and created a variety of turtle-themed items to sell, demonstrating creativity, entrepreneurship, and teamwork. Most importantly, they will be donating all proceeds (over $200) to support Terrapin Turtle conservation efforts, turning their learning into meaningful action and making a positive impact beyond the classroom

On Friday, June 5th, graduating seniors from Sandwich Middle High School returned to Forestdale School for their final school walkthrough, providing a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with former teachers and reflect on how far they have come since their days as Forestdale students.

As the seniors proudly walked through the hallways in their graduation attire, they were greeted with enthusiastic cheers, applause, and high-fives from current students and staff. The celebration served as a powerful reminder to our younger learners of the possibilities that lie ahead through hard work, perseverance, and dedication. For many staff members, it was a special moment to see former students return as accomplished young adults preparing to embark on their next chapter.

The walkthrough was both a celebration of achievement and a reflection of the strong connections that continue to exist within the Sandwich Public Schools community. We congratulate the Class of 2026 on reaching this important milestone and wish all graduating seniors the very best as they pursue their future goals and opportunities. We are proud of all you have accomplished and look forward to seeing the impact you will make in the years ahead. Graduation walk pics 2026

On Thursday, June 4th, over 30 Forestdale students showed off their talent to students, staff, and families. Acts ranged from singing, playing musical instruments, dancing, and comedy.

The students did an amazing job to get up in front of the over 100 in attendance to strut their stuff. Great job!

A huge thank you to staff Mikayla Shaw, Teddy Biron, and Sydny Shaw for putting this event together.

Enjoy the photos: Talent show pics 2026