Newsletter
Week of April 13
At a Glance:
Chapel Chat
Carpool Safety Reminder
Acorns to Oaks Celebration
FPDS Crusader Store
Accelerated Math
Under The Oaks
Field Day
FPC VBS
Upcoming Events
CHAPEL CHAT:
This week in Chapel, students explored Luke 15, where Jesus shares three parables with a common theme of loss and redemption. We identified the three “lost” items: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son. Students discussed how the third story differs—the son’s loss is relational and personal, not just physical.
In the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11–32), we examined how both sons are spiritually lost in different ways. The younger son represents those who wander away and reject truth, while the older son reflects those who stay outwardly faithful but grow spiritually cold. We also talked about how it’s possible to hear the Gospel often, yet miss the depth of God’s grace, just like the older son.
Our focus this week was on God’s heart—full of grace, forgiveness, and joy when the lost are found.
CARPOOL SAFETY REMINDER:
For student safety, all drivers must travel in the correct direction of traffic and only pull up to the curb on the proper side of the street (no parking facing oncoming traffic). U-turns are not permitted. Thank you for your cooperation.
ACORNS TO OAKS CELEBRATION:
We invite you to join us on May 7th at 8:15 a.m. in the sanctuary for our Acorn to Oak Celebration for grades 1–6. Together, we will celebrate the many ways God has nurtured growth in our students this year and recognize their hard work and accomplishments..
FPDS CRUSADER STORE:
Big Savings at The Crusader Store!
From May 1–7, enjoy 30% off all women’s and student apparel at The Crusader Store by using the Promo Code: SUMMER at check out.This special offer is available online and in-store. (Please note: this promotion does not include men’s items.)
ACCELERATED MATH - Rising 5th & 6th Graders
We are beginning the process of identifying students for Accelerated Math for the upcoming school year.
This program is designed for students who demonstrate strong understanding, independence, and the ability to move at an accelerated pace with increased rigor.
If you would like your child to be considered, please complete the form below by April 13, 2026:
Accelerated Math
Students will complete a placement test before the end of the school year, with additional data (achievement scores and OLSAT results) also considered.
Please note: submitting the form does not guarantee placement but begins the evaluation process.
For questions, please contact Jennifer Dryden or your child’s teacher.
FPDS UNDER THE OAKS:
Registration for Under the Oaks Summer Camp 2026 is officially open! Take advantage of our early registration discount available through April 30. Visit our website to explore camp options and complete your registration (click here).
FPDS FIELD DAY 2026 NEWS:
Friday, May 8 is one of the most anticipated days of the year for our Crusaders! Field Day is filled with friendly competition, lots of laughter, and a joyful celebration to close out the school year. We’re looking forward to a fun-filled day and would love your help in making it a success.
Please review this week’s Field Day checklist:
Food & Drink Tickets – Save time and enjoy more of the fun by pre-purchasing tickets for food, drinks, and games by Thursday, May 1. Tickets will be available for purchase at the event; however, all booths and activities will require tickets for participation. Buy your tickets here!
Volunteer Sign-Up – Field Day is a team effort! Each student must have a parent or guardian in attendance, and we invite you to be part of the excitement by volunteering. Opportunities range from assisting with activities to helping at various stations—there’s a place for everyone to get involved. Click here to sign up and join the fun!
FPC: Join us for VBS at FPC!
Registration is NOW OPEN for FPC's Vacation Bible School 2026. Sign up online.
At Vacation Bible School this year, our students are discovering how to be A PART OF GOD’S ROYAL FAMILY. This week is full of singing, crafts, fun games, and silliness, but most importantly it is a week in which our children are fully immersed into God’s Word! This year our focus is on what it means to be adopted into God’s family through Jesus Christ, the joy of living as His beloved children, and how God grows His family (the Church!). God is the One who adopts into His royal family, and He freely makes us His children.
Register at fpcj.ms/vbs. Don't miss the early deadline - May 4 - to guarantee a t-shirt.
Upcoming Events
April 13th - Mustard Seed Play (Grades 1st - 4th)
April 14th - Coffee & Conversation for Parents of rising 3rd Graders
April 15th - Coffee and Conversation for Parents of rising 5th Graders
April 16th - New Student Preview Day
April 17th - 4th Grade Mississippi Parade
April 22nd - Second Grade "Stay" Field Trip
April 30th - FPDS Strategic Plan Information Session | 5:30 PM
April 30th & May 1st - K5 Play
May 1st - FPDS Strategic Plan Information Session | 8:00 AM
May 1st - 4th grade Field Trip to The Science Museum
May 1st - Early Registration Deadline for Under The Oaks
May 7th - Acorns to Oaks Celebration: Showcasing Strength & Growth | 8:15 AM
"For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ."
1 Corinthians 3:11