This week, we begin the second half of the third quarter of this school year! Time is truly flying by and your student needs a plan to finish strong. I was observing in a classroom this week and part of the lesson was on effective ways to study. Strong study habits in high school grow out of consistency, curiosity, and a bit of strategy. Setting aside regular time each day to review material keeps concepts fresh and prevents last‑minute stress. Breaking big tasks into smaller steps makes assignments feel manageable, and using active techniques—like summarizing notes, teaching the material to someone else, or practicing with flashcards—helps information stick. A quiet, organized workspace reduces distractions, while short breaks keep your mind sharp. When students build these habits early, they give themselves room to thrive academically and feel more confident in their learning. Let's insist on good student habits for our Falcons!

Please join us as we honor the 100th year of celebrating Black History. We will have spirit days, daily inspiring facts, and activities throughout the month. Thank you to our Black Student Union and KICS for planning our celebrations!

Tuesday and Thursday of this week will be spirit days!

Please see the image attached from the OCPS Wellness Policy. NO outside food and drink deliveries are allowed for students. All students can receive free breakfast, lunch, and snack after school. Students are also welcome to pack their food as well. For any questions, please reference the policy: https://files.smartsites.parentsquare.com/6888/wellness_policy_iham_local_school_wellness_sbm_clean_11-11-25.pdf

Student IDs are required to be displayed while on campus. Please clip your student id to your backpack at all times. If you lost your ID please go to the media center before or after school to get a new one. Replacement IDs are $5. We have had many students now in compliance with this important safety matter. We want to be sure that our students are safe on campus!

There are now 2 lanes of traffic entering the school! Please be aware that this pattern is new. The left lane will allow cars to go straight or turn right into the car line for student drop off, and the right lane will turn right into the car line for student drop off only.

The signs have been removed and both lanes are now indicated as entry lanes to the school.

Please be patient and cautious when merging down to one lane. There will continue to be one lane right in front of the school so that students are not walking through traffic when getting dropped off.

The new guard shack is now open!

 Continued reminders for parents and students about our parking lot:

Thank you for helping us keep our students and faculty safe by adhering to speed limits of 10 mph and following all traffic cones, barricades, and signs in the parking lot. 

Join us this week at a sporting event, music concert, or Falcon Experience to see the best kept secret in OCPS- East River High School! Help us spread the word about our wonderful school. We appreciate you!

Please email me with any questions or concerns at rebecca.watson@ocps.net It is my privilege to serve at East River.

 Be safe and kind!

 Becky Watson

 Principal, East River High School