Mrs. Julie Lucas

Dear Falcon Families,

Welcome to the 2025-2026 school year! Whether you’re a returning family or new to Fern Drive, I’m so excited to welcome you to our vibrant school community. As we begin our third year together, I remain deeply committed to nurturing a school culture that is warm, inclusive, and collaborative—a place that truly feels like a family. At Fern Drive, we believe that strong relationships, mutual respect, and shared purpose are the foundation for student success and a joyful school experience for all.

I can’t wait to see our Falcons back on campus on Monday, August 11th—it’s always a special day full of excitement and fresh beginnings. To kick things off, I hope you’ll join us for one of our favorite traditions, Popsicles with the Principal, on Thursday, August 7th. This event is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, meet new faces, and build the sense of community that makes Fern Drive so special. Please be sure to complete the Annual Information Review (AIR) by August 7th to receive early access to your child’s classroom placement. Keep an eye on your email for details about this important process.

Fern Drive has earned a reputation as a place where children are known, valued, and inspired. We will continue to grow that legacy together by fostering a culture of belonging, inclusion, academic curiosity, and kindness. Every child deserves to learn in an environment where they feel safe, seen, and supported—and that’s 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—those who care for them, believe in them, and walk alongside them in their learning journey.

If you are new to our school, I want you to know that you are stepping into a truly special place. Our students are encouraged to think critically, explore creatively, and act with empathy. Each Falcon brings their own unique background, talents, and experiences, enriching the fabric of our school and helping shape a learning environment where all students can thrive. Our diverse community and strong sense of togetherness are part of what make Fern Drive not just a school, but a second home for so many.

This year marks my 18th year as an elementary school principal and my 29th year in education—a career I am still deeply passionate about. My husband, Matt, and I are the proud parents of Abbey, a high school senior, and Matthew, a sophmore. It’s hard for us to believe we have a senior and a sophmore! It feels like we were just parents of elementary aged kids too; don’t blink, parents! My husband Matt is also an educator. He teaches AP Economics and US History and is the Head Baseball Coach at El Dorado High School. As a family, we love 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’s my way of keeping you informed and connected to all the exciting things happening across campus.

We look forward to partnering with you as we embark on another fantastic year together. I look forward to learning, growing, and celebrating alongside each of you as we continue to make Fern Drive a place where every child can soar.

With Falcon Pride,

Warmly,
Mrs. Lucas
Principal