Principal Demarcus Goree-Watkins
Welcome Back to Forest Lane Academy!
Hello, Forest Lane Academy families and community!
I am DeMarcus Goree-Watkins, and I am honored to welcome you to the 2026–2027 school year. This marks my 11th year as an administrator at Forest Lane Academy, and I continue to be inspired by the incredible students, families, staff, and community that make our school such a special place.
At Forest Lane Academy, we believe in One Goal, One Team, One Vision —creating a world-class learning experience for every child, every day. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the remarkable accomplishments of our students. Last school year, Forest Lane Academy ranked among the Top 5 elementary campuses in Richardson ISD for Overall MAP Growth in Reading and Math during the 25/26 school year. Even more exciting, our students ranked #1 in Reading Growth for grades 3–6 across the district.
Our students also demonstrated tremendous academic achievement:
- 50% of our Kindergarten through 5th grade students earned MAP RIT scores at or above the 50th percentile.
- 64% of our students achieved Fall-to-Spring growth at or above the 50th percentile.
- Forest Lane Academy students outperformed the district in the percentage of students meeting their projected MAP Growth goals in nearly every grade level.
These accomplishments did not happen by chance. They are the result of dedicated teachers, determined students, and a school community committed to doing whatever it takes for children to succeed.
This year, our theme is “Our Legacy, Our Story.” Every day, we have an opportunity to write another chapter in the story of Forest Lane Academy. Legacy is not built by a single person—it is built by an entire community working together with purpose and passion.
At Forest Lane Academy, we are Goal Over Role. Titles do not define our impact; our shared commitment to student success does. Whether you are a teacher, parent, volunteer, office staff member, custodian, cafeteria employee, bus driver, or community partner, every person plays an essential role in helping our students learn, grow, and thrive.
As we begin this new school year, I invite each of you to join us in continuing the tradition of excellence that defines Forest Lane Academy. Together, we will build upon the successes of last year, embrace new opportunities, and create a legacy that future generations will be proud of.
Thank you for trusting us with your children. We are excited to partner with you for another incredible year of learning, growth, and achievement.
Together, let’s write Our Legacy. Our Story.
Best,
DeMarcus Goree-Watkins M.Ed.
Principal,
Forest Lane Academy
Assistant Principal Angela Guesby
It is with great excitement and deep honor that I introduce myself as your newest member of the Administrative Team as an Assistant Principal at Forest Lane Academy. I am thrilled to join this wonderful school community and partner with our incredible principal, dedicated teachers, and supportive families to help every student grow and succeed.
I have taught PreK, kindergarten, 5th and 6th grades. I’ve also been a reading and instructional coach, dyslexia teacher, and now an assistant principal the past 4 years.
As an instructional leader, coaching and teaching over the past 21 years in RISD, I have contributed to the advancement and success of all students and teachers. My goal and personal dedication is to continue to
advocate for students by leading effectively in order to cultivate, motivate, and build relationships with teachers, staff, and community to help create a dynamic environment where a mentality of learning, growth, college and career readiness, and success is the norm.
Assistant Principal Jennifer Kim
Mrs. Kim has been a part of Richardson ISD since 2007 and has been a part of the Forest Lane Academy community since 2013. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degree from Trinity University in San Antonio and completed her admin certification courses at the University of Texas in Arlington. She has taught 3rd grade in a 50/50 bilingual setting, worked as a campus math specialist, and as an instructional coach. She also attended Richardson ISD from Kinder through 12th grade in the Berkner High School feeder pattern. Mrs. Kim grew up in an immigrant household which taught her to value education as an opportunity that opens doors for the future. She is committed to and passionate about equity and providing a high-quality education for all. Outside of school, Mrs. Kim enjoys quality family time, going to the park, or taking weekend trips with her two daughters and husband.