Principal's Welcome Letter

Greetings Kenilworth Elementary Cougars!

Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year! It is my honor and privilege to continue serving and supporting the Kenilworth family for another year. I hope you enjoyed a restful and joyful summer with family and friends. While we hope you made lasting memories, we have truly missed your presence in our hallways and classrooms. Kindergarten and new Student orientation as well as “Peek at Your Seat” will be hosted on Monday, August 25, 2025.PGCPS will not provide transportation for this event. You are encouraged to attend this event.  We look forward to welcoming everyone back on Tuesday, August 26th, the first official day of school.

This year, our work will be guided by three core commitments: a thriving culture, clear communication, and high expectations for every scholar. We will build upon our inclusive, student-centered environment with rigorous and intentional instruction that prepares all students to be college- and career-ready. At the same time, we will nurture their social and emotional well-being, ensuring they have the confidence, skills, and support to succeed.

Parents and families are our most important partners in this work. Together, we will strengthen the bridge between home, school, and community. This year, we are expanding opportunities for dialogue and collaboration, including quarterly “Chat and Chews” to listen to your ideas, address concerns, and celebrate successes. We truly believe that it takes a village to raise and inspire each scholar —and our village is strong because of you.

Our culture and climate set the tone for learning, and we will protect that environment by upholding high behavioral and academic expectations. We will continue to follow the Students’ Rights and Responsibilities Handbook as well as the PGCPS Code of Conduct for Families, Volunteers, and Visitors. Please review these resources to help us maintain a safe, respectful, and orderly school.

Reminders

• Cell Phone Policy: During the school day, scholars must keep cell phones turned If a student needs to contact home, they may use the school’s designated phone.
• Meal Information: Breakfast ($1.60) and lunch ($2.75) are available daily. Families may add funds to lunch accounts at MySchoolBucks.com. To apply for free or reduced lunch, visit MySchoolApps.com.
• School Hours: 7:30 a.m.–1:40 p.m. Students may not arrive before 7:15 a.m., as supervision is not available prior to that Please review our arrival procedure slides to ensure the safety of our scholars.

Important Dates:

• Kindergarten & New Scholar Orientation: Monday, August 25, 2025 (9:45 - 10:45am.) During this time parents will receive a brief introduction to Kenilworth Elementary, routines, expectations, meet their teacher and drop off supplies.
• Returning Scholar “Sneak a Peek”: Monday, August 25, 2025 (11:00–12:00 pm.) At this time students will visit their classroom, meet their teacher and drop off supplies.
• Back-to-School Night: Thursday, September 4, 2025 (5:30 m.- 8:30 p.m.)
• First Day of School: Tuesday, August 26, 2025

We will keep you informed through our KES website, School Messenger, Class Dojo (school stories and class updates), text alerts, emails, phone calls, and notices sent home. Staying engaged ensures you never miss opportunities to support your child’s growth.

Our PTA is a driving force for community engagement and student success. We encourage all parents, staff, and students to join by clicking KES PTA Membership. Your voice matters!

This year, let us walk together in the belief that every child can achieve at the highest levels when we unite as a school, home, and community. “This is Us” Uniquely Created, Kenilworth Shaped—a place where everyone fits!

Thank you for your trust, partnership, and commitment to your child’s success. Let’s make 2025–2026 our strongest year yet!

Educationally,

Rhonda R. Clomax