THE CHARGER CONNECTION
June 3rd, 2025
Week of October 20th
Hello Chargers!
Richardson ISD wants to make sure all students feel safe, supported, and part of the school
community. To help with this, we are doing our yearly School Climate Survey between
November 5th and November 14th. This survey is part of the Stronger Connections Grant and
Student Support Framework, which focus on student well-being, engagement, and making sure
all students can access learning.
The School Climate Survey asks students about how safe they feel, their relationships with
others, their school environment, and how connected they feel to school. Students will take
the survey online during school hours. It should take 10 to 20 minutes to finish. To help
students feel comfortable giving honest answers and to protect their privacy, all answers will
be anonymous.
Results of this survey help us learn what is going well and what we can improve in our school.
Per Texas law, we need your written consent before your child can take the survey.
You can view a copy of the student survey here. English Survey. Click below for parent letters and example surveys in additional languages.
We’ve included a Parental Consent Form with this letter as well as a link to a digital consent
form below. Please either complete it digitally or send back the physical copy by October
31st. Students can only take the survey if we get a signed consent form from you.
We also value YOUR feedback and invite you to complete the Family Survey.
Thank you for helping us build a stronger and more connected school community. If you have
questions, please feel free to reach out to Lauren DeBose, the Director of Intervention Services,
Sincerely,
Dr. Susan Burt
Principal
💛 Minion Day Madness!
There’s nothing despicable about this crew! 💛 Our Chargers went all out for Minion Day, showing up in their yellow gear, goggles, and overalls to spread a little laughter and a lot of school spirit. From the sidewalks to the gym, FMMS was buzzing with energy, smiles, and plenty of banana jokes! 🍌
We love seeing our students and staff embrace these spirit days with so much creativity and enthusiasm — it’s what makes being a Charger so much fun! ⚡️
🚀 Ready for Liftoff!
Our 6th-grade scientists in Mr. Pata’s and Ms. Gibson’s classes took their learning to new heights this week—literally! Students wrapped up their unit on forces and motion by designing and launching their own rockets. From careful setup to countdown, every team showed incredible teamwork, curiosity, and excitement as they watched their creations soar across the sky.
It was the perfect blend of science, fun, and hands-on learning—and a great reminder that when curiosity takes flight, amazing things happen! 🌟
Exploring Careers in Education
Mrs. Benjamin’s Principles of Education & Training students are diving into the world of teaching and learning—literally! Students are researching various careers within education and creating life-size drawings to represent their chosen profession. Each figure includes detailed facts about the role, responsibilities, and impact of the career they selected.
From classroom teachers to coaches and counselors, our future educators are gaining a hands-on understanding of just how many paths exist in the field of education. We can’t wait to see these creative projects displayed! 💜📚
🎻 Charger Orchestra Concert
The Forest Meadow Orchestra delivered an unforgettable performance during this week’s concert! Under the direction of their amazing director, students showcased their talent, teamwork, and dedication.
One of the most memorable and joy-filled moments came when students invited a parent, sibling, or friend from the audience to join them — teaching their guest how to play a short song on their instrument! The gym was full of laughter, smiles, and the beautiful sounds of music and learning shared across generations.
It was truly a Charger Proud moment that highlighted not only musical skill but also connection, courage, and community. 💜🎶
🥤 A “Sweet” Friday Surprise!
Our amazing FMMS PTA treated staff to a delicious Dirty Soda Bar on Friday! Teachers had a blast mixing and matching flavors to create their own custom drinks — from Dirty Dr Pepper to Mango Mountain Dew — and left with not only their perfect soda blend but also a sweet trail mix treat to kick off the weekend.
Thank you, PTA, for always finding creative (and tasty!) ways to make our staff feel appreciated! 💜✨
📚 Saturday School Success!
What an incredible turnout for Saturday School this weekend! Our Chargers showed up ready to learn, grow, and have a little fun along the way. Students participated in engaging lessons, hands-on activities, and collaborative projects designed to strengthen their reading and math skills.
A huge thank you to our dedicated staff who spent their Saturday supporting students and making learning come alive — and to our amazing PTA for keeping everyone fueled with snacks and smiles! 💜⚡️
💜 8th Grade AVID at TCU Game Day!
Our 8th grade AVID students spent an exciting Saturday at the TCU Game Day experience! Students toured the beautiful campus, connected with college mentors, and learned more about life as a Horned Frog before cheering on TCU in their matchup against Baylor.
It was an inspiring day filled with college spirit, teamwork, and fun — a perfect example of AVID in action, helping our Chargers dream big and see themselves as future college students! 💪🎓🐸
✨ Congratulations to Our 2025–2026 NJHS Officers! ✨
A huge shoutout to our newly elected NJHS officers — chosen by their peers for their leadership, character, and commitment to service. These students embody the five pillars of the National Junior Honor Society: Scholarship, Service, Leadership, Character, and Citizenship. We’re so proud of their dedication to making a positive impact at FMMS and beyond! 💙⚡
2025–2026 NJHS Officers
- President: Nolan Boll
- Vice President: Emmerson Ehman
- Secretary: Sophie Underwood
- Treasurer: Benton Brashears
Chargers on the Move!
Our boys and girls Cross Country teams hit the trails this week at Huffines Park, giving it their all in another great meet! The Chargers showed incredible determination, teamwork, and school spirit from start to finish. We’re so proud of their hard work and perseverance — way to represent FMMS with Charger Pride! 💜⚡️
🏈 8th Grade Football Spotlight
Congratulations to Xavier Jackson, this week’s Defensive Player of the Game! Xavier made big plays and strong stops in the Chargers’ 50–0 victory over West Junior High. His focus, hustle, and leadership on the field helped drive the team to another dominant win. Way to go, Xavier — Charger Pride shines bright! 💜⚡️
Week of October 20th
Monday, October 20th
- A-Day
- Spooky Socks - Wear your Spookiest Socks
Tuesday, October 21st
- B-Day
- FMMS Football vs. Apollo JH @ Wildcat Ram Stadium
- 5:30, 7th Grade
- 7:00, 8th Grade
- Beginner Band Show & Tell
- 6:00 pm, FMMS Large Gym
Wednesday, October 22nd
- A-Day
- Unity Day - Wear Orange
- 6:15 pm - FMMS B-Team Football vs. Bowman MS (Plano ISD) @ Clark Central
Thursday, October 23rd
- B-Day
- FMMS Volleyball vs. Apollo JH
- 7th Grade @ FMMS
- 8th Grade @ AJH
Friday, October 24th
- A-Day
- Haunted Hallway Hunt - Find the Bats or Pumpkins and win a prize!
Looking Ahead - Mark your Calendars
October 28th - Battle of the Boneyard Rally & Football Game
November 3rd - Student Holiday, No School
November 4th - Student Holiday, No School
November 8-9, Market in the Meadow
November 12th - 6th Grade to the Dallas Opera
November 15th - Saturday School
November 24-28, Thanksgiving Break
😴 It’s Pajama Day at FMMS! 💤
Don’t sleep on the Chargers — show off your comfiest PJs and school spirit on Tuesday, October 21st! After celebrating this cozy spirit day with STUCO, cheer on our Charger Football team as they take on the Apollo Junior High Panthers. Let’s pack the stands and keep the Charger energy strong all year long! ⚡💙
6th Grade Announcements
Reminder....all 6th grade students will participate in two field trips this year:
- November 12th - Dallas Opera Field Trip Cost: $2.00/student (blue permission slip)
- November 20th- Dallas Holocaust Field Trip at no cost (yellow permission slip)
- For this field trip, please select a Sack Lunch if needed
Unity Day - October 22nd
Unity Day, started by PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center in October 2011, is the signature event of National Bullying Prevention Month.
This is a day when we can come together to send a visible message of building commUNITY through kindness, acceptance, and inclusion. The call to action is simple: wear and share the color orange.
This vibrant statement becomes a conversation starter, showing support for students who have been bullied and for bullying prevention.
Get Ready for Red Ribbon Week!
We’re excited to celebrate Red Ribbon Week together from October 27–31! This week is all about making healthy choices, standing strong against drug use, and showing school spirit with fun dress-up days.
Why Red Ribbon Week?
It’s a nationwide campaign that encourages students to make positive, drug-free choices and focus on mental and physical health.
Dress-Up Days:
Each day will have a special theme to remind us about making good choices—check out the attached schedule!
Stay up to date with the latest news, announcements, and events from Forest Meadow Middle School—your hub for all things Charger Nation!
Student Report Cards
Do you know how to access your child’s report card in Focus? Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Log in: Access the Focus Parent Portal through a web browser or the mobile app using your username and password.
- Select student: If you have multiple children, select the student whose report card you want to view.
- Select school year: Choose the correct school year from the dropdown menu, usually located at the top right of the screen.
- Go to the "Reports" tab: Look for a tab or button labeled "Reports" and click on it.
- Click on "Report Card": In the "Reports" section, you will see a list of available reports. Click on the "Report Card" link or the download arrow to view or download the report.
🌮 Tamale Time!
Support the RESSA Scholarship Fund by ordering delicious tamales from The Tamale Co! Choose from a variety of flavors — Ancho Pork, Beef Tenderloin, Cheese, Black Bean & Corn, or Chicken — all steamed to perfection and made with love.
🗓️ Orders open: October 16 – November 21
📦 Pick-up: December 5, 12–4 PM in PDC Room A112
💲 $18 per dozen | Salsa available for $10 per 12 oz bottle (green mild or red hot)
✨ Gluten-free and dairy-free options available
Enjoy authentic tamales while supporting a great cause!
🎭 Charger Theatre Live! 🌟
Get ready for an incredible night of talent as our Forest Meadow Middle School Theatre students take the stage for Charger Theatre Live — an evening filled with monologues, short scenes, and musical theatre numbers!
📅 Wednesday, November 13
🕖 7:00 PM (Doors open at 6:30 PM)
📍 Lake Highlands High School Auditorium
🎟️ Tickets:
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Adults: $10
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Students (5th–12th): $5
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5th Grade & Under: FREE!
Tickets will be available for purchase from theatre students, at the door on show night, or online through the LHHS Theatre Booster Club Toolkit.
Come out and support our talented Chargers for a night of fun, laughter, and live entertainment you won’t want to miss! 💜🎬
💜 Join the Forest Meadow Middle School PTA! 💜
We’d love to welcome you to our PTA family! The PTA plays a crucial role in supporting our students, staff, and campus through events, volunteer opportunities, and funding for essential programs and supplies.
By becoming a member, you’re not just staying connected—you’re helping to build a stronger Charger community. Whether you’re ready to volunteer or simply want to stay in the loop, every membership matters and makes an impact.
Let’s make this a fantastic year—together!
Here is where you’ll find the latest news and announcements from Richardson ISD.
Stay connected with important updates, events, and information that matter to our students, families, and community.
🏈 Elementary Night at Lake Highlands High School! 🎉
Calling all future Wildcats! The Lake Highlands Wildcat Club invites elementary families to a fun Party Patio Event on Friday, October 24, 2025. Come cheer on the Wildcats under the Friday night lights while mingling with families from our feeder schools!
📅 When: Friday, October 24 | Party starts at 6:30 PM | Kickoff at 7:00 PM
📍 Where: Party Patio at Wildcat Ram Stadium
💲 Cost:
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Adults & non-elementary students – $20/person
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Elementary students (wearing their school shirt) – $15/person
🎟️ RSVP by October 21 — space is limited!
Enjoy football, food, and fun for the whole family.
👉 Get your tickets here: https://lhwildcatclub.org/form/m/359270
Students must be accompanied by an adult into the game and on the patio.
Let’s pack the stands and show our Wildcat spirit! ❤️🤍 Go Cats!
💜 Free Parent Night: Fentanyl Awareness
Join us for an important community conversation with Mike Land, a dad and advocate, as he shares real facts about the fentanyl crisis happening right here in North Texas. Learn what every parent needs to know and how to start honest conversations with your kids about staying safe.
📅 Monday, November 3
🕕 6:00–7:00 PM
📍 Elks Lodge 71, 8550 Lullwater Dr., Dallas, TX 75238
This free event is sponsored by Jenn Brown Coaching and Elks Lodge 71, in partnership with Texas Against Fentanyl. Don’t miss this powerful and informative evening designed to protect our kids and our community.
🔗 www.txaf.org
🎄🐧 RISD RESSA Angel Tree Drive 🐧🎄
‘Tis the season to make a difference! From November 17 – December 2, Forest Meadow is supporting the Richardson ISD Angel Tree. We’re collecting new toys and winter clothing items to help spread joy to families in need across our district.
Items most needed include:
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Toys for toddlers and children under 12
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Winter coats (children’s, men’s, and women’s sizes)
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Scarves, hats, and gloves
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New socks and underwear
Donations can be dropped off at any RISD campus. Together, we can make the holidays brighter for local families through the Richardson Council of PTA’s Clothes Closet and the Network of Community Ministries.