Howard Elementary
Family Newsletter - August 2025
Dear Howard Elementary Families,
Welcome back to school to both our returning families and those joining us for the first time!
I’m honored to introduce myself as your new principal. With nearly 20 years experience in the Medford School District, I’ve had the privilege of serving students, families, and educators in a variety of roles: most recently as principal at Abraham Lincoln Elementary. I’m thrilled to now join the Howard team.
At Howard, we are committed to increasing student achievement in both reading and mathematics, improving attendance, and cultivating a strong sense of belonging across our school. We believe that when students feel connected and valued, great things happen.
Please mark your calendars for two upcoming events:
Back to School Open House: Join us on August 21st, stop by between 5:00 and 7:00 PM. Come meet your child’s teacher, see the classroom, explore the school, and connect with other families.
First Day of School: Students in 1st through 5th grade will begin on Monday, August 25th at 7:50 AM. Kindergarten families will have a soft start during the week of August 25th and will receive more details soon.
Thank you for the opportunity to work with your children—we are proud to be part of their educational journey. Here’s to a wonderful year ahead!
Warm regards,
Ashley Nichols-Lee, Principal
In the Medford School District, we know many families are experiencing some level of financial difficulty, making it challenging to purchase school supplies. We want to ease some of the costs associated with the rising prices in stores as you send your child back to school. That’s why we are providing school supplies for all elementary school students (and Ruch K-8) this year. Parents will not need to purchase items from their school’s supply list for any elementary school child.
Medford School District will purchase the items your child has traditionally needed to bring to class. Those supplies will go straight to the classroom, ready for your child to use on the first day of school.
We do ask that students come to school with a backpack for any materials that need to come home from school as well as a water bottle.
Families of middle and high school students will still need to purchase supplies this year. However, if you are not able to, please let your school know and they will support you.
