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,
Principal DeMarcus Goree-Watkins
