The Bulldog Bulletin
August 2025
I am so excited to begin the school year and to see all of our students! I also want to acknowledge that many families may feel a little nervous about the new dismissal procedures. Please know that I completely understand those feelings.
This plan is not new, it is a system that I have successfully used for the past 10 years at my previous school, and it is also modeled at many other TPS buildings where it continues to run smoothly and safely today.
Key Points for Arrival & Dismissal
Drop-off & Pick-up Location: All students will be dropped off and picked up at the front of the building.
Walkers: Parents who are walking up to get their students should wait by the bike racks. Students walkers will be called out first.
Car Line Procedures: Parents must stay in their cars and use the pick-up lane. Staff will be outside to assist students and help load them safely at dismissal.
Car Tags: We will pass out car tags as soon as they arrive. In the meantime, staff will ask for student names directly.
Keeping the Line Moving: Parents who need extra time to help children buckle or adjust things will be asked to pull into one of the open spots after pickup so the line continues moving. Trying to skip the line or park in the wrong area will only slow down the process and frustrate those following procedures.
No Parking in Back: Parents may not park behind the building, as all buses will load and unload there.
Dismissal Plans: Please be sure you have communicated your child’s dismissal plan to their teacher. Any daily dismissal changes must be shared with both the teacher and the front office before 2:30 p.m.; otherwise, we cannot guarantee the message will be delivered in time.
Why This Matters
Please understand that we are implementing this process first and foremost to keep all students safe. Just like you, I would never want to see a child hurt or lost. This process will move quickly and smoothly as long as everyone follows the procedures together.
Thank you so much for your patience, flexibility, and cooperation as we start this year strong. I know with your support, this system will quickly become routine.
I can’t wait to welcome everyone tomorrow for a great first day!
Warmly,
Julie Gault
Principal, Elmhurst
We strongly encourage all families to download and use the My Ride K-12 app. This free tool provides real-time updates, improves communication, and makes managing your child’s transportation simple and convenient. Using the app ensures you always have the most accurate information at your fingertips.