Forest Ridge Elementary School

We moved to this school district from another state where both of my children attended private school. The transition was not easy as there were different curricula and expectations, as well as normal angst about meeting new neighbors and friends. However, the teachers and school counselor at Forest Ridge were very committed to helping my children through some rough spots and always welcomed my feedback, thoroughly addressing my concerns and genuinely caring for my childrens' well-being. The principal is approachable, reasonable and thorough. I have lived in 17 addresses in my life (fortunately my kids haven't!) and this is the first time I can say I do not want to ever move again. It's the first real sense of community I have ever felt and my children have embraced the neighborhood, school friends and withouth a doubt, love their teachers. Kudos to Mrs. Crawford, Mrs. Caha, Mrs. Chrzanowski, Mrs. Kruft, Mrs. Menck, Mrs. Rachael Schwartz and Principal Swartz! Thank you for being such an important part of my children's development.
—Submitted by a parent

Two of my children attended K at FRES, and we love the school! The educators are enthusiastic, helpful and they keep the lines of communication open. Whenever I have a concern, I send an email to one of their teachers and the respond in a timely, courteous and professional manner. My children grew so much within the school year. We are all looking forward to first grade there! The PTA is also wonderful and I have had great interactions with other parents.
—Submitted by a parent

Unfortunately my child's experience at this school left us very disappointed with the staff and the principal leadership.
—Submitted by a parent

My son attended 1st, 2nd and part of 3rd grade at FRES and my stepson started Kindergarten there as well. The school is fantastic. The teachers we dealt with were great. The teachers truly care about a student's progress. We were sad to leave this school and the kids miss it very much.
—Submitted by a parent

My child has only attended FRES for one year and we both love it. The teachers and principal are great!
—Submitted by a parent

FRES is the best school. Great teachers, and good management. GT programs are nice. Good encouragement from teachers.
—Submitted by a parent

I am a FRES parent and I must say this school is awesome. The faculty is top notch and the principal is wonderful with the kids.

In many ways, I am so sorry that we had to leave Howard County, because my son loved Forest Ridge! I believe that he received the best possible education there, which was certainly on par with any private school in the area. The teachers are highly competent and the principal cares about each child. In addition, FS offers a very safe environment. I would recommend the school highly.
—Submitted by a parent

This spring I moved my first grader from a private school to Foreest Ridge. We are ecstatic about the quality of education and overall experience our daughter is having! Dr. O is amazing and his great leadership is reflected in all aspects of the school experience. My daughter is flourishing academically and in social relationships. After years of paying for private pre-school and kindergarten, I'm amazed at FRES. The environment is nurturing, organized, fun and fantastic! Our wish list for curriculum additions includes more art, more science, more music, and more foreign language (all of which we had in the private schools). We have not regretted our decision for a moment.
—Submitted by a parent

I am the parent of a 1st grader. She has been attending F.R.E.S since kindergarten and I love the school. The teachers, Dr.O and staff are exceptional. I honestly believe(I am an educator in the PG County school school)that F.R.E.S. and Howard County does what it takes to prepare these young scholars for the future. Teachers are well qualified and passionate about providing a good learning enviroment. Keep up the good work!
—Submitted by a parent

I am a former intern at F.R.E.S.. The students, staff, and administration at this school are wonderful! Every teacher acts as an advocate for the students, and they are the most dedicated group of individuals. While they were incredibly supportive towards me, they were equally supportive towards the students. Students were held to high expectations, and the teachers went above and beyond to help the children to succeed. In addition, Dr. O., the principal was personable and friendly to each student. I would highly recommend this school to any parent! Keep up the good work F.R.E.S.!
—Submitted by a teacher