Mrs. Julie Lucas

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Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! Whether you are a returning family or new to Fern Drive, I am so excited to welcome you to our vibrant school community. As we begin our fifth year together, I remain deeply committed to nurturing a school culture that is warm, inclusive, and collaborative—a place that truly feels like family. At Fern Drive, we believe strong relationships, mutual respect, and a shared purpose provide the foundation for student success and a joyful school experience for all.

I can’t wait to welcome our Falcons back to campus for the first day of school on Monday, August 10th! The first day is always filled with excitement, energy, and the promise of a fresh beginning.

Before school begins, our TK and Kindergarten families are invited to attend TK and Kindergarten Orientation on Thursday, August 6th, at 3:00 p.m. Following orientation, all Fern Drive families are invited to join us for one of our favorite traditions, Popsicles with the Principal, at 4:00 p.m. This event is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, meet new faces, and begin building the sense of community that makes Fern Drive so special. Please watch your email for additional details and information about completing the Annual Information Review (AIR) to receive early access to your child’s classroom placement.

Fern Drive has earned a reputation as a place where children are known, valued, and inspired. We will continue building upon that legacy by fostering belonging, inclusion, academic curiosity, and kindness. Every child deserves to learn in an environment where they feel safe, seen, and supported—and that is exactly what we strive to provide each day. I believe deeply that students learn best when they have meaningful relationships with the adults around them—adults who care for them, believe in them, and walk alongside them throughout their learning journey.

If you are new to our school, I want you to know that you are joining a truly special place. Our students are encouraged to think critically, explore creatively, and act with empathy. Each Falcon brings unique experiences, talents, and perspectives that enrich our school and help create a learning environment where every student can thrive. Our diverse community and strong sense of togetherness are part of what make Fern Drive not simply a school, but a second home for so many.

This year marks my 19th year as an elementary school principal and my 30th year in education—a career about which I remain deeply passionate. My husband, Matt, and I are the proud parents of Abbey, who is beginning her freshman year at Ole Miss, and Matthew, a high school junior. It is hard to believe how quickly the years have passed—it feels like we were just parents of elementary-aged children ourselves. Don’t blink, parents! Matt is also an educator. He teaches AP Economics and U.S. History and serves as the Head Baseball Coach at El Dorado High School. As a family, we enjoy spending time at the river and the beach, attending sporting events, watching movies together, and reading.

You can expect to receive my weekly newsletter, News From the Nest, every Sunday evening. It is my way of keeping you informed and connected to the many wonderful things happening across our campus.

We look forward to partnering with you as we embark on another fantastic year together. I am excited to learn, grow, and celebrate alongside each of you as we continue making Fern Drive a place where every child can soar.

With Falcon Pride,
Mrs. Lucas
Principal