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NHE News

October 14, 2025

NHE News October 14, 2025
NHE NewsOctober 14, 2025

A Note From Mrs. Smith A Note From Mrs. Smith

Dear NHE Families,


We hope everyone enjoyed the long weekend and had some time to relax, recharge, and make memories with family and friends.


Last week was full of excitement — from Picture Day to A Day of Drumming, our Falcons showed up with big smiles and tons of school spirit! We had a wonderful time celebrating our students at our SOAR Awards and Quarter 1 Celebration as we recognized their hard work, growth, and achievements.


We’re entering our first CIA testing window, which gives students a chance to show what they know and helps teachers plan next steps for learning. Thank you for continuing to encourage your children to do their best and come to school ready to learn each day.


And don’t forget — Movie Night is this Wednesday at 6 PM! Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and Falcon pride for a fun evening with friends, family, and our NHE community. You won’t want to miss it!


We’re excited to kick off another great week of learning and growing together at NHE.


Jenni Smith
NHE Principal

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NHE Family Handbook

Coming up @ NHE Coming up @ NHE

Please be aware of the upcoming events at NHE!

  • October 9: A Day of Drumming (during specials classes)

  • October 9: SOAR Awards & Celebrations

  • October 10-13: Fall Break

  • October 15: PTA Movie Night

  • October 18: Saturday School

  • October 20-24 National School Bus Safety Week

  • October 20: 4th and 5th grade bilingual field trip

  • October 20: Tutoring

  • October 20-24 National School Bus Safety Week

  • October 21: Roman Cucina Spirit Night

  • October 22: Unity Day - wear orange

  • October 22: 3rd-grade field trip to the symphony

  • October 23: Coffee & Conchas

  • October 23: Early Release

  • October 27-31 Red Ribbon Week

  • October 25: Saturday School

  • October 27: Tutoring

  • October 31: PK-2 Story Book Character Parade

  • November 3: No School - Parent Teacher Conferences

  • November 4: No School - Teacher Professional Development

  • November 5: Progress Reports

  • November 8: Saturday School

NHE Celebrates Hispanic Heritage NHE Celebrates Hispanic Heritage

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
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September 15th-October 15th is National Hispanic Heritage Month!

This month, NHE is proud to celebrate Hispanic Heritage! Each morning, students will hear facts about Hispanic culture and learn about influential Hispanic figures who have made a lasting impact on our world. In October, we’ll continue the celebration with some fun dress-up days to honor Hispanic heritage and traditions.


We look forward to learning, celebrating, and honoring the rich contributions of Hispanic culture together!

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Join us for a fun and relaxed parent meeting on October 23rd. Join us for a fun and relaxed parent meeting on October 23rd.

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Gifted & Talented Referral Window is NOW OPEN Gifted & Talented Referral Window is NOW OPEN

RISD elementary students in grades K-6 may test once per year to determine if they qualify for gifted/talented services. The window to refer your child/ren for testing opens October 3, 2025 and closes October 17, 2025. If you would like your child/ren to be tested to determine if they qualify for gifted/talented services, please complete the appropriate referral form linked below. Referrals will not be accepted outside the referral window.

  • 2025-2026 Kindergarten Referral for GT Testing

  • 2025-2026 Grades 1 & 3-5 Referral for GT Testing


Please see the information below to determine if you should refer your elementary school child/ren to participate in testing for potential gifted identification.


  • kindergarten, 1st grade, 3rd-5th grades: referral form required

  • 2nd grade: Do not complete a referral. All RISD 2nd grade students are universally tested.

  • 6th grade: Do not complete a referral. All 6th grade students are universally tested.

  • GT2 students: Students who are identified for GT2 services (30-45 minutes per week) may retest for potential qualification for GT3 services (2 hours per week). Referral form required if you want your GT2 child/ren to test.

    • Please note: All 2nd and 6th grade students are automatically tested, including GT2 students. Please do not complete a referral for your GT2 child/ren if they are in either of these grades.


Elementary testing occurs on each campus throughout the late fall and winter. To learn more about testing timelines, please read this Smore newsletter. Your campus' Advanced Learning Teacher will communicate specific testing dates with you as the testing window approaches.


Results for 6th grade will be shared January 16, 2026. Kindergarten test results will be shared with families and campuses on February 20, 2026. All other grade level test results will be shared on March 10, 2026. GT services will begin for all newly identified GT students in March 2026. If you have questions, please email our Advanced Learning Teacher, Claire Swain at claire.swain@risd.org .

Bilingual Field Trip for 4th & 5th graders Bilingual Field Trip for 4th & 5th graders

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Saturday School: This Week! Saturday School: This Week!

Saturday school will occur on the dates listed below from 8:30-11:30. Invited students in 3rd-6th grade are encouraged to come in their pajamas for a fun and relaxed learning experience. During our time together, we will have learning sessions, but also time for food, fun, and friendship!

Invitations will be sent home on Thursday

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Early Release - October 23 Early Release - October 23

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Thursday, October 23rd, is an early release day. Students will be dismissed at 1:10 pm. Please make arrangements to pick up your student at 1:10 pm. **Classroom daily schedules on these days are different, which include changes in lunch and specials.

Red Ribbon Week is Coming Up Red Ribbon Week is Coming Up

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Capturing Kids Hearts October Focus: Self-Direct Capturing Kids Hearts October Focus: Self-Direct

What does it mean to Self-Direct?

Self-Direction is the ability and learned skill to cast a vision of future goals and then take intentional steps toward who, where, and what we want to be. Instead of focusing on things to control or avoid, we emphasize our responsibility to make positive choices related to our emotions, attitudes, and actions.


Why focus on Self-Direction?


  • Self-Direction strengthens relationships. Self-Direction helps to grow social skills and develop meaningful, positive relationships with others.
  • Self-Direction teaches personal responsibility. Learning to Self-Direct teaches students to take responsibility for their own actions.
  • Self-Direction helps us to regulate emotions: Self-Direction empowers students to regulate their impulses and emotional responses to situations and circumstances in their life.


Self-Direction in Action:


  • Practice goal setting and action planning. When we establish goals and develop action plans, we learn to take intentional steps to successfully achieve goals.
  • Monitor and adjust. Provide students with regular feedback and opportunities to self-assess progress toward goals to make adjustments and improvements in their behaviors.
  • Reflect and evaluate. Facilitate discussions and reflection to prompt students to examine what they do, think, and say against their goals and vision for their life and learning.
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Counselor Corner Counselor Corner

NHE Counseling Corner

KINDNESS CLUB

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Library Volunteers Needed Library Volunteers Needed

Volunteers Needed

Our library is the heart of the school, and volunteers help bring it to life! By volunteering, you’ll support students as they discover the joy of reading, help keep our collection organized and welcoming, and model the importance of lifelong learning. Whether it’s shelving books or sharing a friendly smile, your time makes a big difference. Volunteering in the library is also a wonderful way to be part of our school community and see firsthand the excitement of students growing as readers. You must be registered in Verkana.


To receive email reminders throughout the year: https://forms.gle/HuPJQC1KhYdQYqK59


To sign up to volunteer in October: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090449A8A829ABF85-58760621-october#/

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NHE PTA News NHE PTA News

Join the PTA
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Join PTA Here

NHE Events Recap NHE Events Recap

We've had some really fun and exciting events happening at NHE this month so far! From the RHS Homecoming parade, to Opera in Suitcase, and a Day of Drumming, our school has been buzzing with excitement! NHE's float looked amazing thanks to all the volunteers, students, and staff who participated! You all showed what school pride is all about! Our students also had an amazing opportunity to learn about and participate in "The 3 Little Pigs" brought to us by The Dallas Opera. And then on Thursday, we had a Day of Drumming during the students' specials time. Kids had a blast as each student had the opportunity to be a drummer! A huge thanks to our PTA and volunteers for bringing these unique learning experiences to our school!! NHE continues to Level Up this year!!

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Movie Night Volunteers Needed Movie Night Volunteers Needed

Movie Night Volunteers Needed!

Calling all volunteers!! We would love it if you could join and lend a hand with a few tasks! This is our BIG community event and it's always a good time! If you have any questions, please reach out! See the sign up link below to volunteer! Thank you for helping us make this event a success!


https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050549AFA62EA6FD0-59190849-movie

Feed Freddie Campaign Feed Freddie Campaign

It’s Feed Freddie Time! Oct 6 through Oct 17.

The grade that raises the most money gets a COLOR CELEBRATION party with the principals!

Feed Freddie is our Fall Fundraising Donation Drive – a time when we ask NHE families to support the PTA by donating money instead of selling items for a fundraiser. You can donate via cash, check or credit card or use the QR code! With a direct donation campaign, 100% of the money given goes directly to support our students. Any amount helps!!

All donations must be received by Oct 17. The grade that raises the most gets a color celebration with the principals and teachers on Oct 24! Click the link below to donate!

https://northwoodhillspta.networkforgood.com/projects/260511-feed-freddie-2026

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Spirit Nights Spirit Nights

Need a night off of dinner duty? Mark your calendars for our upcoming Spirit Nights and support our school! Come to Roman Cucina on October 21st and bring the flyer or mention NHE at checkout! You can also visit Little Caesars anytime this month to help support our school! Last day to order from Little Caesars is October 31st, and you can click the link below to order online!!


https://fundraising.littlecaesars.com/products?support=3ada14e1-41a3-4550-9c38-9db93bc74682&c=5

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Amigas de la Educación Amigas de la Educación

This is a volunteer group for those who prefer communicating in Spanish and feel more comfortable in a small‑group setting. We support teachers and the school with practical tasks like teacher support, stuffing tuesday folders, library assistance and PTA programs & initiatives. We meet every Monday, starting October 6th from 8:30-10am in the school cafeteria. Click the link below to join the WhatsApp group and learn more information about how to join!! We look forward to seeing you!! Your time, whether large or small, makes a difference!

https://chat.whatsapp.com/EzE1wSBs9DSIJqIlI2dzWC?mode=wwt

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🎨✨ Join the Art Reflection: I Belong Competition! ✨🎭 🎨✨ Join the Art Reflection: I Belong Competition! ✨🎭

We want all NHE students to showcase your talent. See flyer below for details! Deadline: October 27, 2025. Don't miss your chance to shine! 🌟 If you have questions or need help, don’t hesitate to contact us.

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Trick-or-Treat Pizza Trick-or-Treat Pizza

Come join us on the NHE playground before trick-or-treating the neighborhood!! We will have pizza and drinks available starting at 6:00 until we run out. All neighborhood families are welcome so invite your neighbors!!

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What is for lunch?
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NHE Breakfast & Lunch Menu

Lunch Visitors Lunch Visitors

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We’re Excited to Welcome Lunch Visitors!

Here are a few reminders to help make your visit smooth and enjoyable:

  • One visit per week, please. This helps us manage space and make sure every family has the opportunity to visit.

  • Arrive on time. Plan to be here before your child’s lunch period begins.

    • NHE Lunch Schedule 25-26

  • Bring your photo ID. All visitors must check in at the front office and wear a visitor badge while on campus.

  • Enjoy lunch at the visitor table. For safety reasons, visitors should sit at the designated visitor table with their child only. Parents may not sit in the cafeteria.

  • Friends can’t join your table. We know kids love company, but we ask that you enjoy this time just with your child.

  • Put phones away. To protect student privacy and keep the focus on your child, please avoid phone use, photos, or videos while in the cafeteria.

  • Head out after lunch. When your child’s lunch period ends, please exit through the front office. Visitors may not walk students back to class.

  • Permission for guests. If someone other than a parent/guardian plans to visit, we need written permission from the parent ahead of time.

Thank you for helping us make lunch visits a safe, positive experience for everyone. We can’t wait to see you in the cafeteria!

Learning Community News Learning Community News

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The Richardson ISD Bond 2025 is designed to address projects across the district, encompassing construction, facilities, safety and security, transportation, fine arts, athletics, technology, and various instructional programs.


Early Voting is from Oct. 20-31 and Election Day is Tuesday, November 4.

See proposed projects for our campus and others.


Information Sessions:


To help parents and community members learn more about Bond 2025 and its potential impact on their campus, Richardson ISD is holding a series of information sessions.

You are highly encouraged to attend an information session in our community to learn more. Tuesday, October 14 at 6:30 p.m.

Richardson ISD Administration Building
400 S. Greenville Avenue
Richardson, TX 75081

All information sessions are open to the public.


Spanish interpretation services are available. To submit your request, please email Teresa Ordóñez or call 469-593-0312 with 24-hours in advance.


For more information, including a video overview and a schedule of all information sessions, please visit the official Bond 2025 website at https://web.risd.org/home/bond2025/.



Attachments:

Download the Bond 2025 Proposed Projects Summary

Download the Bond 2025 Overview One Pager

​​Descargar el resumen del Bono 2025 (en español)

Dyslexia Fundraisers Dyslexia Fundraisers

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New Volunteer Management System New Volunteer Management System

Before participating in volunteer opportunities in schools and district facilities, all RISD volunteers must complete a background check and an orientation through our NEW Volunteer Management System. We are using Verkada, the same program already in place for visitor management on every campus. Click here to complete your 2025-2026 Richardson ISD Volunteer Application.

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Opt-In & Opt-out Preferences - Important Parent Message Opt-In & Opt-out Preferences - Important Parent Message



Texas legislation requires all parents and guardians to provide clear opt-in and opt-out preferences for their student regarding various activities and services such as:

  • Available access to health services (all grade levels)

  • After-school clubs (all grade levels)

  • Counseling opportunities (K-5 & 7-12)

  • Library Services (all grade levels)

All RISD parents/legal guardians received an email from the district on Friday, August 22 with information to select your preferences for your student(s) in FOCUS. Please make sure that you check your email, you should have a message from Richardson ISD, with the subject line: Important Parent Message in Regards to Recent Texas Legislation.

Please visit the FOCUS portal and use the newly created page to submit your preferences for each of your children.

If you have additional questions, please submit a Let’s Talk here.

Thank you for helping us ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. We look forward to a great new school year.



Helpful Parent Resources Helpful Parent Resources

✅Verify Your Student's Immunizations Are Up-To-Date✅


By law, Richardson ISD must have an immunization record for each student on file. These records should be up-to-date at the time of registration. https://web.risd.org/healthservices/immunizations


🔎Create a FOCUS Account🔍

RISD provides electronic access to a student's grades, attendance, and other information via the FOCUS software system. https://web.risd.org/focus/


📱Download RISD Mobile Parent App📱

Access student information, view the latest news, receive important alerts, review an archive of parent messages sent by RISD, view school menus and lunch account balances, find your bus stop, access student schedules, assignment grades, attendance and more. https://web.risd.org/home/risd-mobile/


🚍Need a Ride to School?🚍

See bus route information and sign up for student transportation: https://web.risd.org/transportation/


🥗Download SchoolCafe App🥗

RISD’s school cafeteria payment system is called SchoolCafe. https://www.schoolcafe.com/

District Links District Links

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RISD Graduate Profile

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Parent Information

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RISD Student and Parent Handbook

How to Upload Your Attendance Excuse for Focus

25-26 Academic Calendar 25-26 Academic Calendar

Click photo for Spanish
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✍🏻Front Office Contact Information✍🏻 ✍🏻Front Office Contact Information✍🏻

Jenni Smith, Principal
(469) 593-4333
jennifer.smith@risd.org
Mark Bell, Assistant Principal
(469) 593-4328
mark.bell@risd.org
Martha Menezes, Dean of Students (habla español)
(469) 593-4275
martha.menezes@risd.org
Paige Pendery Counselor
(469) 593-4332
paige.pendery@risd.org, qwendolyn.dixon@risd.org
Crystal Hunt, Nurse
(469) 593-4250
crystal.hunt@risd.org
Sadaf Ramzan, Student Data Specialist/Enrollment
(469) 593-4251
sadaf.ramzan@risd.org
Leslie Ledezma, Executive Assistant (habla español)
(469)-593-4252
leslie.ledezma@risd.org

NHE News Archive
See all of the newsletters from this year!
Northwood Hills Elementary
https://schools.risd.org/NorthwoodHillsES/

Want to Sign Up for This Newsletter?

Got this newsletter as a forward and want to sign up to receive future editions? Please click here to subscribe. Please note that parents of currently enrolled RISD students and current RISD employees are automatically sent newsletters from RISD and their school. It’s not necessary to subscribe. Parents or staff who wish to receive news from other RISD schools may subscribe using the link above.


This newsletter was sent through RISD’s Blackboard system, and current parents should be aware that unsubscribing from Blackboard messages at the link at the bottom of this message may prevent parents from receiving future messages from their child’s school.

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