Family Newsletter
Shepherd Elementary School September 18, 2026
A Note From Dr. Hooks
Dear Shepherd ES Families,
The safety and well-being of our students continues to be a top priority at Shepherd ES. We know how important it is for families to feel confident that their children are safe and well cared for each day. We have continued to reinforce with staff the importance of direct student supervision throughout the school day. We are also providing additional training and support, reinforcing safety trainings required by DCPS Central Services, and making sure that our schoolwide expectations and procedures are consistently followed. We are also taking supplemental steps to strengthen the safety of our physical building and its safety systems, focusing on measures that are within our school’s control.
We appreciate the partnership of our staff and families as we continue working together to make Shepherd a safe, welcoming, and supportive place for every student.
As a reminder, the primary email address for general school-related inquiries is shepherdes@k12.dc.gov. Please use this email address for questions, requests, or other school-related communication.
Kindest regards,
Dr. Calvin Hooks, Interim Principal
Shepherd Elementary School
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month
From September 15 through October 15 (and beyond) we celebrate and honor the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. This month is an opportunity to recognize the generations of individuals whose achievements, traditions, and leadership have helped shape and enrich our city, our nation, and the world.
We invite you to learn more about Hispanic Heritage Month and explore educational resources by visiting the Smithsonian Latino Center.
Let us take this time to celebrate the diversity, resilience, and lasting impact of Hispanic and Latinx communities.
Excuse Notes for Absences
If you are able, please submit student absence excuse notes directly through the Aspen Family Portal. This is the fastest way to ensure absences are properly documented.
For families who are unable to submit notes through Aspen, please email the excuse note to the Shepherd Elementary School general mailbox, shepherdes@k12.dc.gov, and we will be happy to assist. Thank you for your support!
Attendance Awareness Month
Every Day Counts!
September is Attendance Awareness Month, a time when schools and families work together to emphasize the importance of regular school attendance. Consistent attendance is one of the most important factors in a child's academic success and overall well-being.
When students attend school every day and arrive on time, they have the opportunity to build strong academic skills, develop positive relationships with peers and teachers, and gain confidence in their abilities. Even in the early grades, missing school can make it harder for children to keep up with classroom learning and develop important reading, writing, and math skills.
Why Regular Attendance Matters
- Students who attend school regularly are more likely to achieve academic success.
- Daily attendance helps children build positive routines and responsibility.
- Being in school supports social and emotional growth through interaction with peers and teachers.
- Frequent absences can result in missed learning opportunities that are difficult to make up.
Missing just two days per month can add up quickly and impact a child's progress throughout the school year.
How Families Can Help
- Establish a consistent bedtime and morning routine.
- Prepare clothes, backpacks, and materials the night before.
- Schedule routine appointments and vacations outside of school hours whenever possible.
- Keep track of your child's attendance and communicate with the school if concerns arise.
- Develop a backup plan for transportation or childcare emergencies.
- Encourage your child to talk about school and maintain a positive attitude toward learning.
We Are Here to Help
If your child is experiencing difficulties that affect attendance, please reach out to the school. Our staff is committed to partnering with families to support student success. Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Thank you for your partnership in making attendance a priority.
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Shepherd Elementary School
Main Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Address: 7800 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20012
Website: Updates Coming Soon
Email: shepherdes@k12.dc.gov
School Phone: (202) 576-6140