Letters from the Principal
Parent Welcome Letter
August 05, 2027
Dear Peyton Forest Families,
It is with great excitement and deep gratitude that I introduce myself as the incoming Principal of Peyton Forest Elementary School, pending approval by the Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education on August 10, 2026.
I am honored to continue serving the Peyton Forest community in this new capacity. For the past 15 years, I have had the privilege of serving our school in various leadership roles, including Assistant Principal. During that time, I have witnessed firsthand the strength, resilience, and excellence that make Peyton Forest such a special place.
Whether you are returning or joining our school family for the first time, I am excited to partner with you as we begin another year of learning, growth, and success. This year's theme, "The Legacy Continues," reminds us that together we build upon the strong traditions, achievements, and relationships that have shaped Peyton Forest for generations.
For more than 16 years, I have proudly served Atlanta Public Schools as a Teacher, Student Support Specialist,Gifted Specialist, Instructional Coach, and Assistant Principal, . These experiences have reinforced my belief that outstanding schools are built on strong relationships, high expectations, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to every student.
As we begin this new chapter together, my promise is simple: I will listen, lead with integrity, and always place students at the center of every decision. I am committed to honoring the strong foundation that has been established, celebrating our successes, and working alongside our dedicated staff, families, and community to ensure Peyton Forest continues to thrive.
Together, we will create a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where every scholar is known, challenged, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. We will also continue to emphasize the importance of daily attendance, arriving on time, and demonstrating our ROAR expectations both in school and on the bus so that every scholar has the opportunity to succeed.
Thank you for your trust, partnership, and commitment to our school community. It is truly an honor to serve as your principal, and I look forward to all that we will accomplish together as we continue the proud legacy of Peyton Forest Elementary School.
With gratitude and excitement,
Ericka Fluellen
Interim Principal
Peyton Forest Elementary School
Early Dismissal
August 3, 2026
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we move forward in the school year, I would like to emphasize the importance of ensuring that your child remains in school for the full instructional day.
While we understand that unavoidable circumstances may occasionally arise, we kindly ask that early dismissals be limited to family emergencies or cases of illness only. Frequent early dismissals can significantly disrupt your child’s learning experience, academic progress, and classroom engagement.
Please note that early dismissals will end promptly at 1:45 PM each school day. To maximize instructional time and support a smooth and safe dismissal process, students will not be dismissed early after this time.
Here are a few reasons why it is important for your child to remain in school throughout the day:
- Consistent Learning: Missing portions of the school day means missing valuable instruction and learning experiences that are difficult to replicate.
- Participation and Engagement: Each part of the school day is intentionally designed to support student growth and achievement. Full participation strengthens both academic and social development.
- Classroom Community: Regular attendance and full-day participation help foster a positive classroom culture where every student’s presence and contributions matter.
Please be aware that continued patterns of excessive early dismissals without a documented valid reason may result in additional attendance support measures, including a referral to the school social worker. This process helps ensure students receive uninterrupted access to instruction and allows us to partner with families to address any attendance concerns.
We appreciate your understanding and partnership in supporting your child’s success. Together, we can ensure a productive, enriching, and successful school year.
Thank you for your continued support.
Ericka Fluellen
Interim Principal, Peyton Forest Elementary School
Tardy to School
Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we progress through the school year, I want to address an important matter regarding student attendance—specifically, excessive tardiness. While I understand that occasional delays may occur due to unforeseen circumstances, I kindly ask that tardiness be limited to family emergencies or doctor’s appointments only. Consistent lateness disrupts not only your child’s learning but also the entire classroom environment.
Here are a few key reasons why it is essential for your child to arrive on time and stay at school all day: 1. Consistent Learning: Punctuality ensures that your child doesn’t miss out on important instructions and activities that occur at the beginning of the school day.
2. Participation and Engagement: Each part of our school day is designed to foster growth and learning. Arriving on time allows your child to fully participate and engage in all planned activities.
3. Classroom Community: Being present and on time helps build a strong and supportive classroom community. Your child’s presence contributes to a positive and productive learning environment for everyone.
Please be aware that if excessive tardiness continues without valid reasons, it may result in a referral to a social worker. This step is necessary to ensure that all students receive the education they deserve and to address any underlying issues affecting your child’s attendance.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter. Let’s work together to ensure a successful and enriching school year for your child.
Thank you for your support.
Ericka Fluellen
Interim Principal, Peyton Forest Elementary School
Interim Principal, Peyton Forest Elementary School