On Wednesday, May 6th, over 100 students, family members, and district administrators participated in Walk, Ride, and Roll to School Day from Oak Crest Cove to Forestdale School.

Walk, Ride, and Roll to School was celebrated by schools throughout Massachusetts on May 6th. A huge thank you to Sandwich Recreation, Sandwich Fire, and Police Departments for their support in the event.

Providing students with opportunities for physical movement before the start of the school day sets a positive tone for both learning and behavior. Activities such as walking, riding a bicycle or scooter help increase blood flow, improve focus, and regulate energy levels, allowing students to enter school more attentive and ready to engage. Morning movement can also support social interaction and emotional well-being, giving students a chance to connect with peers in a structured yet relaxed environment. By incorporating intentional physical activity into the start of the day also promotes healthier habits while enhancing students’ readiness to learn.

Thank you to all who participated!

On Tuesday, May 5th, author Susan Verde visited Forestdale 1st and 2nd grade students.

She presented students with her book I am Love. I Am Love is a gentle, mindfulness-centered story that teaches children how to respond to difficult emotions with compassion and kindness. Through simple, affirming language, the book encourages readers to pause, breathe, and recognize that even when they feel hurt, angry, or overwhelmed, they can choose to act with love toward themselves and others. It emphasizes empathy, self-awareness, and the power of small, positive actions to repair relationships and build connection, reinforcing the idea that love is always a choice within reach.

A big Thank You to the Sandwich Elementary PTA and Cyndi Rotondi for organizing this presentation.

Click the link to enjoy photos and video of her visit: Author Susan Verde FD

Tomorrow, Monday, May 11th @ 10am there will be a dedication ceremony for the new Forestdale Garden. (rain date May 12th)

The planning and construction of the garden has been a long, but worthwhile wait. Kindergarten thru Grade 2 students will be in attendance along with Superintendent of Schools Dr. Joseph Maruszczak, representatives from The Cape Cod Foundation, Town dignitaries and State Representative Dylan Fernandes.

A special thanks to Coastal Roots Landscape and Design for the design and construction of the garden. The garden features: 2 frog ponds, 32 garden beds (one for each classroom), 7 bird houses, irrigation and electrical capability. Surrounding the Garden is a Mindfulness Pathway developed by retiring Health Teacher Julie Crosby and Physical Education Teacher Nikki DeNardo.

A Garden Committee has been developed to start work on garden curriculum and immediate student/staff access.