PTA Newsletter
March 10, 2026
Dear Ross Community,
How long did your Roadrunners keep you out yesterday? Folks, we didn't walk in until the sun was setting--those kids weren't letting the first warm day go to waste. As I was forced to spend several hours on the Ross playground yesterday, I got to chit-chatting with caregivers, and it came to my attention that not everyone is aware that there is school on Thursday. I repeat: there is now school this Thursday! Because of the inclement weather this year, previously scheduled conferences have been canceled and it will be an instructional day. Don't miss it! (Seriously.)
We've got some paperwork for you this week: get ready for SY26-27 enrollment! There are also technology and Panorama surveys waiting for your input. See below for all details. Now go get your swimsuit cause your Roadrunners are ready to go to the pool tonight, I can assure you. We'll see you here with all the school news that's fit to print.
-Aimee
As the snow melts, picture a warm April evening. The kids are with a sitter. You are on a Dupont Circle patio, drink in hand, hanging out with the Ross community, and raising money for our school! Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 25th. We'll gather at Boogy & Peel for a community happy hour (5-7pm) to celebrate the culmination of our silent auction! Grab your tickets now, consider becoming an event sponsor if you can, and reach out to rosselementaryauction@gmail.com if you can help! (Do you have inroads at businesses that could donate items or experiences? Do you have access to a vacation property? Do you have a talent to donate or teach others? Let us know.)
Students Interview Roman Oben
Former NFL player, Roman Oben, met with the 4th grade students over TEAMS. He shared his experiences playing in the NFL, how he got there, and the strong foundation he received from Ross Elementary. He also talked about the importance of teamwork, emphasizing the value of diversity and overcoming challenges.
Roman: I was born in Cameroon in West Africa, and my mom worked for the Cameroon Embassy in DC…Ross was my introduction to being in America. We lived on 16th Street, and I would walk to school.
Roman: My favorite thing was the safety patrol parades on Constitution Avenue. All the elementary schools would march down Constitution Avenue, and we would make signs. And I remember, “You'll see stars, if you hang around cars.” We had the green shirt, white shorts, and the safety patrol belt during the parade.
Nina: Was there someone at Ross who inspired you?
Roman: I'm going to get emotional. Miss Stanley. She was my second grade teacher. My English wasn't very good when I came to America, and Miss Stanley would always pull me to the side if kids said something that I didn't like…When you get older, you always remember who was really kind to you and who always gave you time and attention. Miss Stanley was my favorite teacher, because she always checked on me.
Roman: Ross has done an amazing job, and it created a foundation for me. I want Ross to continue to inspire people, inspire learning, and to continue to be a diverse community. I want Ross to continue to do great things!
The DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is updating its Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), and we would like to hear from you! The SCORP is used to prioritize and select outdoor recreation projects in the District to receive funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund in the National Park Service.
DPR wants to know more about how you enjoy the outdoors, what outdoor activities you do, and what activities you wish you could do through DPR. Your insights will shape the SCORP priorities and help plan the future. You can find the survey at www.surveymonkey.com/r/scorp or by scanning the QR code on the attached flyer. Or, if you prefer, you can call and leave us a voicemail at 202-673-7065 with your suggestions.
Thank you in advance for your help and support of DC Parks and Recreation. Please feel free to share this correspondence with your neighbors and friends. Your feedback is invaluable.
About the Ross PTA
The mission of the Ross PTA is to support the education of all Ross students, to support Ross faculty and staff, to foster relationships among parents, staff and community members, and to assist faculty and staff to provide a safe and nurturing environment where all students, families and faculty can thrive and grow.
Email: PTApresident@rosselementary.org
Website: http://rosselementary.org/pta
Location: 1730 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Phone: 202.673.7200
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