5-3--26 Patriot Press

Dear Fort Families,

Happy May to all of our Fort Washington families!

It is hard to believe we are a little over a month away from summer break. During this time of year, we spend time creating classes for next year. As a team, we work to build balanced classrooms and match students with the teachers and peers who will best support them. As you can imagine, this is a very challenging process that requires a great deal of thought and care.

Once classes are finalized, we do not move students from one classroom to another, as doing so creates a domino effect that disrupts all of our hard work. If you have any concerns about placement, now is the time to reach out to your child’s teacher to share that information. I also ask that you do not request a specific teacher, but rather describe the characteristics of a teacher who would best match your child’s needs.

During the summer, when students receive their teacher assignments, I will not be able to make class changes. I appreciate your understanding in this matter, as moving one child impacts many others.

Have a wonderful week!

Sincerely,

Mr. Mac
Fort Washington Elementary School
Principal
smcaleer@udsd.org

Wednesday, May 6 – 3rd grade field trip to Camden Aquarium
Friday, May 8 – 4th grade field trip to Pennsbury Manor

Wednesday, May 13 - Orchestra Concert - 7 p.m. (gym)

Thursday, May 14 - Band and Chorus Concert - 7 p.m. (gym)

We will host our FWES Spring Clothing Drive to support Cradles to Crayons from April 7- May 11. Learn more about suggested items and donation guidelines via the flyer below.

If you are planning to attend classroom parties or events, or to chaperone (including with your own child) on a field trip, Tier I clearances are required. Clearances are valid for five years. You can find more details via the button below.

Our district is currently evaluating before- and after-care programs in our schools. We invite all K–5 families to complete a brief, anonymous survey by May 4 to share their childcare needs and interest in programming; feedback will help guide future offerings.

The theme of UDSD’s upcoming Employee Appreciation Week is Growing Greatness. We are proud to recognize all members of our Cardinal team for their dedication to supporting student growth and helping every learner reach their potential. To share your appreciation, we invite all members of our school community to print and cut out the leaf design (linked below), write a note of gratitude, and deliver it during the week of May 4–8.

The Keystone Scholars Program is a statewide initiative that provides a $100 scholarship for every child born to a Pennsylvania family beginning in 2019 to support future postsecondary education expenses. Families may use these funds between ages 18–29 for technical programs, college, apprenticeships, and credentialing opportunities.

Join us in honoring all of the recipients at the 42nd Annual Upper Dublin Medals program on Wednesday, May 20. Presented by Upper Dublin Township, the Upper Dublin School District, and the Upper Dublin Education Foundation, this inspiring evening brings us together to celebrate exceptional members of our community.

Join Superintendent Dr. Laurie Smith and Director of Technology Colleen Yenser for an informative, interactive session on the role of artificial intelligence in education. The discussion will cover responsible AI use by students, ways AI can support learning, and the district’s approach to developing policies for safe and effective classroom integration.

We are excited to host our district’s Celebration of Cultures on Monday, May 11, an evening to share traditions, connect, and celebrate our diverse community. We invite students, families, and staff to participate as table hosts and showcase their heritage. Hosts can facilitate a table in many ways, including sharing traditional foods, displaying artifacts, or leading hands-on activities like crafts or dance. For more details, view the flyer linked below and register by April 17.

Upper Dublin School District is now accepting new student registrations for the 2026-2027 school year. Please visit our registration page for eligibility information, required documents, registration tutorial, before and after care information, and to access our registration portal, Infinite Campus.

A reminder that all students can enjoy a free breakfast in our cafeterias each morning. Selections vary by day and include warm, whole grain-rich mains, fresh fruit, 100% fruit juice, and locally-sourced milk. It’s a great way to start the day energized and ready to learn. View our menus to see what’s for breakfast!

UDJFA Jewish American Heritage Month Event | Registration

Monday, May 4

UDJFA Lag B'Omer Celebration | Registration

Monday, May 4

Tigris Community Fair & Collection Drive

Saturday, May 16

UDAC Youth Splash & Dash

Sunday, May 17

YMCA Family Triathlon

Sunday, June 21

Basketball Clinic for Grades 3-8

June 22-25

Cardinal Youth Cheer Camp

July 13–15

UDPD Cop Camp

August 24-28

**Disclaimer Statement: The information provided in the segment above is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement or recommendation of any specific individual or organization. We offer this platform as a resource for community organizations but cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the details provided.