Dear Pine Hill Families,

Welcome to a new school year at Pine Hill! We’re excited to welcome our newest Pandas and reconnect with our returning families. As I begin my third year as principal, I remain committed to making Pine Hill a supportive, safe place where every student can learn and grow.

A supportive learning environment is especially important for our young students who are just beginning to develop lifelong skills. When children feel cared for, included, and secure, they’re more willing to try new things, take learning risks, and build positive relationships. Feeling safe—both emotionally and physically—helps them focus, grow academically, get along with others, and advocate for themselves respectfully.

Along with core academics, we teach Social Emotional Learning (SEL) alongside our PBIS expectations—Be Safe, Respectful, Responsible, and Kind. These lessons give students tools to manage emotions, build empathy, make good choices, and treat others well—skills that help create a school where every child feels secure and ready to learn.

As you prepare for the new school year, please keep these important dates in mind.

August 14- TK and K orientation (6:00-7:00) This is just for the new AND returning TK and K families. Come meet our TK and K teachers and get some tips to set your littlest learners up for success. This event is geared toward parents. No childcare will be provided.

August 19 – Explore Your Campus (3:00–4:00 PM) This is a family event. Students can find their classroom, locate key areas like bathrooms, cafeteria, and playgrounds, meet staff, and check class lists. We’ll have a scavenger hunt and refreshments to make the afternoon fun and welcoming.

August 20 – First Day of School (Early Dismissal)

Start time: 8:20 AM (Gates open at 7:45 AM – no early drop-offs)
Breakfast: 7:45–8:20 AM
Playgrounds open: 8:00 AM

Pick-up: 1:40 PM
Explore After-School Program: Open until 6:00 PM; begins on the first day.

Our dedicated educators and staff are ready to make this a year full of learning, connection, and growth. It’s going to be a great year!

Warm regards,

Saundi Phillips, 

Principal, Pine Hill Elementary School

Frequently Asked Questions

When will I find out who my child’s teacher will be?
Class lists will be posted at 3:00 PM on August 19 during Explore Your Campus.

Is breakfast and lunch free?
Yes! All students receive free breakfast and lunch. Students in Explore also receive a supper meal.

What are drop-off and pick-up times?

• Drop-off: 7:45–8:20 AM

• Regular day pick-up: 2:30 PM

• Early release pick-up: 1:40 PM
  
  

When are early release days?
Every Monday and select days throughout the year (calendar attached).

How will I communicate with my child’s teacher?
We use Parent Square for most communications. You can also call the office anytime.

Do I need the Parent Square app?
No. You’ll get messages by text or email, but the app makes direct communication with teachers easier.