FCPS

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Monday, September 16- 3 Hour Early Release Day (Dismissal will begin at 12:35 PM)

Monday, September 23- Superintendent Community Conversation, 6:30-7:30 PM

Friday, September 27- PTA Movie Night 

Workshop Series Brings Loving Solutions to Challenging Behaviors

Are you tired of arguing with your children? Would you like to improve communication and create a space of harmony at home?  If so, you need some Loving Solutions!

Join us on Tuesday, September 24 at 5:30 p.m. in the Newington Forest Elementary Cafeteria to learn more about this exciting 10-week, mostly virtual, family workshop. It’s designed especially for families with strong-willed 5- to 10-year-olds, and, as parents know, this age can be challenging! The creators of Loving Solutions call the program’s workbook “The Manual the Hospital Forgot to Give You,” and it’s packed with effective strategies and tools to support parenting in a positive and loving way. Here is a link to learn more about this program: https://drive.google.com/file/d/19vcW39lnOi4DtfIefiQFRIGXiAGjw3jN/view?usp=sharing

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. 

The next event is scheduled for Monday, September 23, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Newington Forest Elementary School. Click on the date to register. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

 

Come learn about bike safety at the annual Tour de Mount Vernon Bike Ride with the first-ever bike rodeo on Saturday, October 19! This will be a fun way for children to learn about helmet safety, practice stopping for pedestrians and cars, all while having fun in the process! A former Newington Forest Elementary School student is doing this as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award. See flier for more information about the bike rodeo, the Youth and Family Ride, and the longer adult rides around the Mount Vernon district. 

 

Register here using this link.

✔️ Parent/Caregiver Checklist: Have You Completed These Important Forms?

We understand that the multiple school forms caregivers receive during the first weeks of school can feel overwhelming, but each one helps set your child up for a successful school year! If you do not have a SIS ParentVUE account, please contact your child’s school for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage. 

🩹 Immunization Requirements 

Please check with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to your school’s front office. 

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided to your school’s front office, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:  

• A healthcare provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
• A healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
• A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations. 

📋 Permission Forms

Families can easily grant permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. Parents can opt their child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. They can also change how student information is managed.Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. Watch this video to see how to use the tool. 

Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)

The SR&R document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when logging in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage. This form should be signed and returned by Friday, September 30.

🤒 When a Student Should Stay Home From School

Whether students miss school because of illness or any other reason, missing school leads to learning loss.

Help your child succeed by encouraging them to attend as many days as possible, but do make sure your child stays home if they are sick. Visit our website for information on when to keep your child at home.

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify their teacher so that assistance can be provided if needed. Keep an open line of communication with your school's public health staff.

Read about how families can help form good attendance habits. Attend today, achieve tomorrow! 

 

¿Cuándo debe quedarse mi hijo en casa?

Ya sea que  los estudiantes falten a la escuela por enfermedad como por cualquier otra razón, faltar a la escuela conlleva una pérdida de aprendizaje.

Ayude a su hijo a tener éxito animándole a faltar el menor número de días posible. Sin embargo, asegúrese de que su hijo se quede en casa si está enfermo. ¿Cuándo debe su hijo quedarse en casa? Visite nuestra página web para obtener ideas útiles sobre las ausencias y sobre cómo colaborar con su hijo y con el colegio.

Si su hijo tiene una enfermedad crónica, asegúrese de notificar a su maestro para que se le pueda proporcionar asistencia si la necesita. Mantenga una línea de comunicación abierta con la enfermera de salud pública de su escuela, y llame a la escuela tan pronto como sepa que su hijo va a estar ausente e informe al personal de la escuela por qué y por cuánto tiempo. ¡Asista hoy, logre mañana!

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story so we can all acknowledge the good work of our Newington Forest staff members.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• New Food Options at FCPS
• Early Release Mondays at Elementary Schools

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

8001 Newington Forest Ave. Springfield, VA 22153  |  Phone: 703.923.2600

Attendance: 703.923.2626  |  Web  |  Twitter

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

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Để đọc bản tin này bằng các ngôn ngữ khác, vui lòng truy cập trang webcủa chúng tôi.

Tuesday, September 10- Grades K-3 BTSN, 6:00-8:30 PM

Wednesday, September 11- Grades 4-6 BTSN, 6:00-8:30 PM

Monday, September 16- 3 Hour Early Release Day (Dismissal will begin at 12:35 PM)

Monday, September 23- Superintendent Community Conversation, 6:30-7:30 PM

Friday, September 27- PTA Movie Night 

Grades K-3: Tuesday, September 10, 6PM-8:30PM Grades 4-6: Wednesday, September 11, 6PM-8:30PM ✨The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 1: Strong Start, Pre-K-12

The 2023-30 strategic plan sets five main goals to create positive change in FCPS. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. 

Each goal has an equity commitment — the promise we make to every student to support them in attaining these goals. Each goal also has several measures that allow us to track our progress.

The first goal in the strategic plan focuses on each and every student having a strong start in FCPS. Whether they're joining us in preschool or in high school, we want our students to be set up for success.See how Goal 1 is being put into practice. 

🩹 Immunization Requirements 

 

Please check with your health care provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to your school’s front office. 

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided to your school’s front office, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:  

• A health care provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
• A health care provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
• A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with their religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations.

🍎 Make Every Day Count! The Importance of Attendance

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during breaks from school. 

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.

Learn how families can help form good attendance habits. 🎤 Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid invites you to share your questions or concerns regarding Fairfax County Public Schools. Your voice matters! Community Conversations will be held this Fall 6:30-7:30 p.m. on:

• Monday, September 9, at Holmes Middle School 
• Monday, September 23, at Newington Forest Elementary
• Monday, September 30, at Mount Vernon Woods Elementary 
• Monday, October 14, at Fairhill Elementary 
• Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary 
• Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle 

Click the date above to register. Registration is not required but helps with planning. Additional registration links will be shared in next week’s This Week at FCPS. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid. 

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story so we can all acknowledge the good work of our Newington Forest staff members.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Make Attendance a Priority
• How Is FCPS’ Redesigned Website Working for You?

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

 

8001 Newington Forest Ave. Springfield, VA 22153  |  Phone: 703.923.2600

Attendance: 703.923.2626  |  Web  |  Twitter

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

Để đọc bản tin này bằng các ngôn ngữ khác, vui lòng truy cập trang webcủa chúng tôi.

Friday, August 30 & Monday, September 2- Labor Day Break, No School 

Tuesday, September 10- Grades K-3 BTSN, 6:00-8:30 PM

Wednesday, September 11- Grades 4-6 BTSN, 6:00-8:30 PM

Monday, September 16- 3 Hour Early Release Day (Dismissal will begin at 12:35 PM)

Monday, September 23- Superintendent Community Conversation, 6:30-7:30 PM

Friday, September 27- PTA Movie Night 

Labor Day Break 

Friday, August 30, and Monday, September 2, are Labor Day holidays for all FCPS employees and students. 

Virginia legislation requires that schools opening before Labor Day must be closed the Friday immediately before Labor Day. 

Classes will resume on Tuesday, September 3. 

What’s for Lunch at NFES?

Our menus can now be found online at https://linqconnect.com/public/menu/ESSF44!

Be sure to bookmark this page so you can see the meals our cafeteria will be offering for breakfast and lunch each day.

 

To add money to your child’s account, please visit https://www.myschoolbucks.com.

 

If you wish to apply for Free & Reduced Meals, please visit https://www.fcps.edu/frm to find the application. Online applications typically get processed within one or two business days.

🔍 Lightspeed Parent Report on Child’s Device Activity

FCPS has tools to help parents know more about their child’s activity on any FCPS device. These tools are provided at no cost to families by Lightspeed, the school division’s internet content filtering service.

 

Parents may sign up for a weekly Parent Report, which will provide a list of the top sites their child visited. The report also offers parents the ability to sign up for free access to the Internet Use Parent Portal. Through the portal, parents may pause their child’s access to the internet on their FCPS device during non-school hours.

 

Learn more about Lightspeed Parent Reports.

✨ 2023-30 Strategic Plan: Foundation of Four Pillars

While the five goals of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan focus on student success, the four pillars describe what FCPS must do well to reach our goals for all students:

• The first focus of the pillars is on teaching and learning. We want to make sure each and every student has access to excellent and inclusive learning environments, and that instruction meets students’ individual needs.
• The second pillar focuses on our connection with families and our communities. We cannot do this work alone. Strong partnerships are key to our students’ success.
• The third pillar is centered on our hiring and maintaining a world class, diverse workforce. We want to make sure our incredible employees have what they need to help our students thrive.
• The fourth and final pillar centers on how we bring this all together. We remain focused on creating a culture of equity, excellence, and accountability where data guides our decisions. 

Visit our Strategic Plan webpage for more information. 

🎤 Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid invites you to share your questions or concerns regarding Fairfax County Public Schools. Your voice matters! Community Conversations will be held this Fall 6:30-7:30 p.m. on:

• Monday, September 9, at Holmes Middle School 
• Monday, September 23, at Newington Forest Elementary
• Monday, September 30, at Mount Vernon Woods Elementary 
• Monday, October 14, at Fairhill Elementary 
• Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary 
• Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle 

Click the date above to register. Registration is not required but helps with planning. Additional registration links will be shared in next week’s This Week at FCPS. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid. 

Cell Phones Off, Learning On

Thank you for helping to support the FCPS cell phone policy by waiting to call or text your child about non-urgent matters until the school day is over. In case of an emergency, it is always best to contact the school’s front office to reach your child during class time. 

Visit the FCPS Cell Phone Policy webpage to read more about usage policies by grade level and to share your feedback on the current cell phone policy. 

🙋 Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

The beginning of the school year is the best time to develop strong attendance habits! Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success. Visit FCPS’ Attendance webpage for tips and strategies. 

Solve the Puzzle Before It’s Gone! 

Fairfax County's Puzzle Hunt will end on Sunday, September 15. Families have been solving puzzles and finding clues all summer in this unique community event that takes solvers on a journey to the wonderful parks in Fairfax County. There is still time to join before it ends!

 

Puzzles are filled with creative thinking, logic, and wordplay. They are designed to be completed with friends and family and are challenging and accessible for all skill levels. Solve the puzzles, then find clues at the parks for a final meta-puzzle. Visit our wonderful local parks with friends and family. 

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story so we can all acknowledge the good work of our Newington Forest staff members.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Understanding the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)
• School Safety Reminders

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

 

8001 Newington Forest Ave. Springfield, VA 22153  |  Phone: 703.923.2600

Attendance: 703.923.2626  |  Web  |  Twitter

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

Để đọc bản tin này bằng các ngôn ngữ khác, vui lòng truy cập trang webcủa chúng tôi.

Friday, August 30 & Monday, September 2- Labor Day Break, No School 

Tuesday, September 10- Grades K-3 BTSN, 6:00-8:30 PM

Wednesday, September 11- Grades 4-6 BTSN, 6:00-8:30 PM

Monday, September 16- 3 Hour Early Release Day (Dismissal will begin at 12:35 PM)

Friday, September 27- PTA Movie Night 

Welcome Back To School  Transportation Patience and Safety

Thank you for your patience as we all get used to new routines this school year. We appreciate our families following Kiss and Ride procedures and being patient while waiting for your children’s buses. 

If a student’s bus is delayed, parents may access the Bus Delay Notification System or use the Here Comes the Bus mobile app to receive the delayed bus report. Email messages will be sent to announce significant bus delays. Contact the Transportation Office at 703-446-2150 with any additional questions. For any concerns after 5:30 p.m., contact Safety and Security at 571-423-2000. 

To make sure you receive email messages about bus delays, update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. 

HAVE YOUR DOWNLOADED THE HERE COMES THE BUS APP?

Welcome to Here Comes the Bus! Know when your bus is approaching your stop. Here Comes the Bus® app is a school bus tracking app that provides real-time bus location. This helps parents and students get to the bus stop on time. Here Comes the Bus® utilizes our GPS data and available on multiple devices.

How to Get Started

Using the app is EASY! You will need the FCPS school district code 28982 and a Student Information System (SIS) Parent Account. Please contact Mrs. Patricia Helms at [email protected] if you do not have an SIS Parent Account. Please be sure to follow the detailed instructions below. 

From a smartphone or tablet, download (for free) the Here Comes the Bus® app from the App Store or Google Play.

Please Note: If a new SIS Parent Account was created, please wait 24-48 hours before proceeding with the detailed instructions below.  

1. Open the app. Enter your email address associated with your SIS Parent Account. Do not use the Student Login or Sign Up links.
2. Enter FCPS school district code 28982.
3. Enter your password associated with your SIS Parent Account.
4. Click 'Login', just below the password field.
5. Next, you will be prompted to validate your account.  Please click the Validation Button (the app will close). Next, log on to your email account associated with your SIS Parent Account.
6. Please open the validation email from Synovia and click the validate account link. (If you do not receive an email, check the junk/spam folder)  A browser window will open. Please close the browser window and return to the Here Comes the Bus® app.
7. Repeat the previous login steps (Steps 1-4).
8. Enter the name of your device.
9. Close and log back onto the Here Comes the Bus® app.
10. Under 'Students', you should see a list of your student(s) names.
11. Confirm the information and you are ready to begin using Here Comes the Bus®.

Once signed in, you can customize or edit features, including how the app will communicate with you, and the size and location of the notification radius around your child's bus stop.

Student Accident Insurance Program

Fairfax County Public Schools does not provide medical insurance for accidents that occur at school. Parents can purchase “at school” accident insurance or “24 hour” accident insurance (12 months a year). This is a low-cost insurance program for families to defray medical or dental expenses that results from an accident involving their child. More information can be found on the FCPS public site at Voluntary Student Insurance and on the FCPS Hub Student Accident Insurance Program.

 

Everything You Can Do Through SIS ParentVUE

Want to easily access back-to-school forms and checklists? Log in to your SIS ParentVUE account to find forms and make updates.

Update Contact Information

Be among the first to know about weather closings, bus delays, and other critical communications from your school and FCPS by providing your cell phone number and email in SIS ParentVUE. To update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, click the “Online Packets” tab in the upper right of the screen, then click the “Online Verification/Update” icon. 

Parents/caregivers who do not have a SIS ParentVUE account should print and complete the Emergency Care Information Form (PDF) and submit it to their child’s school.

Complete Permission Forms

Families can now easily give permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. This online tool can be accessed using your SIS ParentVUE account. Parents can easily opt their child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. They can also change how student information is managed.

Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. Watch this video to see how to use the tool. 

Submit Absences

Parents can submit daylong absences through SIS ParentVUE. Log in and click “Report Absence.” Note: Partial day absences and changes of transportation should still be reported directly to the school front office. 

Don’t Have a SIS ParentVUE Account Yet? Contact Mrs. Helms at [email protected] for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage. 

Our Commitment to Excellence, Equity, and Opportunity for Each and Every Student

As we begin a new school year, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid reminds us of the goals of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which guides us in delivering excellence, equity, and opportunity for each and every one of our students. Watch Dr. Reid’s message.

Update Your Child’s Immunizations and Records

Please check with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up-to-date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You can check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to a school’s front office. 

If your child needs a vaccine, please make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or access other local services. If needed, families may also provide other immunization documentation including a healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption or a notarized Religious Exemption Form. 

Find more information on immunizations on the FCPS website. 

Lightspeed Parent Report on Child’s Device Activity

FCPS has tools to help parents know more about their child’s activity on any FCPS device. These tools are provided at no cost to families by Lightspeed, the school division’s internet content filtering service.

Parents may sign up for a weekly Parent Report, which will provide a list of the top sites your child visited. The report also offers parents the ability to sign up for free access to the Internet Use Parent Portal. Through the portal, parents may pause their child’s access to the internet on their FCPS device during non-school hours.

Learn more about Lightspeed Parent Reports.

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story so we can all acknowledge the good work of our Newington Forest staff members.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and more:

• Everything You Can Do Through SIS ParentVUE
• Updating Immunizations and Records
• Transportation Patience and Safety
• Superintendent Reid Welcomes Everyone Back to School

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

8001 Newington Forest Ave. Springfield, VA 22153  |  Phone: 703.923.2600

Attendance: 703.923.2626  |  Web  |  Twitter

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

Để đọc bản tin này bằng các ngôn ngữ khác, vui lòng truy cập trang webcủa chúng tôi.

Monday, August 19- First Day of School

Friday, August 30 & Monday, September 2- Labor Day Break, No School 

Tuesday, September 10- Grades K-2 BTSN,     6:00-8:30 PM

Wednesday, September 11- Grades 3-6 BTSN,        6:00-8:30 PM

Monday, September 16- 3 Hour Early Release Day (Dismissal will begin at 12:35 PM)

Friday, September 27- PTA Movie Night 

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy

Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call the main office at 703-923-2600. 

 

What Is a School Board?

The Fairfax County School Board is responsible for running the public schools in Fairfax County. Twelve school board members are elected by county voters every four years. 

A student representative serves on the board as a non-voting member. They are chosen by their peers each year.

The School Board makes general rules and sets guidelines to ensure Fairfax County Public Schools runs properly. They follow the laws of Virginia and the rules set by the Virginia Board of Education. 

Learning about your local school board is important. Understanding their policies and initiatives can help you advocate for positive changes and ensure that the educational needs of all students are met. There are many ways to get involved.

Learn more about the school board, how to participate in their meetings, and where to watch school board meetings.  

Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights

Fairfax County Public Schools wants all parents and caregivers to understand its policies regarding surveys, records, curriculum, privacy, and related rights.

In its Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms (Annual Notice), FCPS provides explanations of the rights listed above as well as forms that may be used to exercise opt-out choices. Two versions of the Annual Notice are available: a grades K-8 version and a grades 9-12 version. Parents/caregivers with children at different grade levels should read each applicable version of the Annual Notice, because the notices and opt-out rights vary depending on the student’s grade level.

Get more information and view the 2024-25 Opt-Out Booklets.

Update Your Child’s Immunizations and Records

Please check with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up-to-date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You can check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to a school’s front office. 

If your child needs a vaccine, please make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or access other local services. If needed, families may also provide other immunization documentation including a healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption or a notarized Religious Exemption Form. 

Find more information on immunizations on the FCPS website.

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

 

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:

• Counting Down to First Day Fairfax
• Phones Down, Engagement Up
• Middle and High School Grading Updates

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

8001 Newington Forest Ave. Springfield, VA 22153  |  Phone: 703.923.2600

Attendance: 703.923.2626  |  Web  |  Twitter

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

We are excited to seeing you tomorrow from 8:30am-9:30am at the open house. Students will be able to drop off their supplies, explore their classrooms, and meet their classroom and specialist teachers.

As we have done in previous years, we will have a small selection of free school supplies in our cafeteria for families in need.

If you missed the preorder for headphones last school year, there will be a limited supply of headphones in the front lobby for parents to purchase.

Have you added money to your child's lunch account? 

If you have a student who will be paying for school lunch, we will have someone available in the cafeteria to assist parents in adding funds to their child's lunch account. Parents may also add funds electronically by visiting www.MySchoolBucks.com.

 

Apply for Free and Reduced-Priced MealsThe application for free and reduced-priced meals is now available for the 2024-25 school year. Students who were approved for free and reduced-price lunch last year are eligible for the first 30 days of school this year (or until a new application is processed). Families must re-apply as soon as possible, so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost.

As we prepare for the upcoming school year, we would like to remind you about the importance of ensuring that all necessary medications and medication authorization forms for your student are submitted to the school health office. 

If your student will have a medication at school, please complete the appropriate authorization form: medication, inhaler and/or epinephrine. A new authorization form is required annually for medications kept in the health room, and for students who self-carry emergency medications such as inhalers or epinephrine.  

Parents may drop off unexpired medications and forms in the health room on Friday, August 16th between 8:30am-9:30am.  Once school begins, medication may be dropped off any school day from  8:35am-3pm. 

8001 Newington Forest Ave. Springfield, VA 22153  |  Phone: 703.923.2600

Attendance: 703.923.2626  |  Web  |  Twitter

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

Để đọc bản tin này bằng các ngôn ngữ khác, vui lòng truy cập trang webcủa chúng tôi.

Monday, August 19- First Day of School

Friday, August 30 & Monday, September 2- Labor Day Break, No School 

Tuesday, September 10- Grades K-2 BTSN,     6:00-8:30 PM

Wednesday, September 11- Grades 3-6 BTSN,        6:00-8:30 PM

Monday, September 16- 3 Hour Early Release Day (Dismissal will begin at 12:35 PM)

Friday, September 27- PTA Movie Night 

Class Placement Letters

Thank you for your patience as we work to place every student in the best possible class. We also appreciate the valuable feedback from parents who submitted their preferences. Class placement letters will be emailed to parents by 5 p.m. on Monday, August 12.

 

We are excited to welcome you back to school on Friday, August 16 for our Open House/Supply Drop Off. We look forward to seeing you from 8:30am-9:30am. Students will be able to drop off their supplies, explore their classrooms, and meet their classroom and specialist teachers.

As we have done in previous years, we will have a small selection of free school supplies in our cafeteria for families in need.

If you preordered headphones, the headphones were given to classroom teachers. If you need to order headphones, there will be a table in the lobby for parents to purchase headphones for $12 during Open House. Kiss and Ride numbers will also be available for pick-up.

If you have a student who will be paying for school lunch, we will have someone available in the cafeteria to assist parents in adding funds to their child's lunch account. Parents may also add funds electronically by visiting www.MySchoolBucks.com.

Medication Drop off 

As we prepare for the upcoming school year, we would like to remind you about the importance of ensuring that all necessary medications and medication authorization forms for your student are submitted to the school health office. 

If your student will have a medication at school, please complete the appropriate authorization form: medication, inhaler and/or epinephrine. A new authorization form is required annually for medications kept in the health room, and for students who self-carry emergency medications such as inhalers or epinephrine.  

Parents may drop off unexpired medications and forms in the health room on Friday, August 16th between 8:30am-9:30am.  Once school begins, medication may be dropped off any school day from  8:35am-3pm. 

 

We’re Eager to Welcome You    Back-to School!

As summer winds down, our school and staff are looking forward to welcoming students back to our classrooms. Before the first day of school, make sure you have completed the following: 

• Sign Up for SIS ParentVUE

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Parents/caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. Contact the school registrar [add contact info] if you need a code. 

Once you have activated a SIS ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same SIS ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

Need help creating an account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE. 

• Update Your Contact Information

To be sure you receive important information from your schools, update your phone numbers and/or email addresses in the Parent/Guardian section of SIS ParentVUE.

• Update Immunizations and Records

Immunizations are required for all students to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of protecting them from certain diseases and keeping them healthy. Please log in to SIS ParentVUE to see what immunizations your child has recorded. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up-to-date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia as soon as possible. If your child needs a vaccine, please make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or access other local services.

• Prepare for Meals at School 

Parents/caregivers need to provide their students with money to purchase meals at school, send them with a packed lunch, or apply (and be approved) for free and reduced-price meals benefits. School breakfast for students costs $1.75. Lunch is $3.25 for elementary students and $3.50 for middle, secondary, and high school students. 

The best way to purchase meals and additional food items is to use MySchoolBucks. If you have not already, set up your student’s MySchoolBucks account today. 

MySchoolBucks accounts can be set up to add money to the account automatically as needed, and families with multiple children can use the same MySchoolBucks account. 

Apply for Free and Reduced-Priced MealsThe application for free and reduced-priced meals is now available for the 2024-25 school year. Students who were approved for free and reduced-price lunch last year are eligible for the first 30 days of school this year (or until a new application is processed). Families should re-apply as soon as possible, so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost.

• Save the Date: Back-to-School Night

Grades K-2: Tuesday, September 10, 6-8:30 PM

Grades 3-6: Wednesday, September 11, 6-8:30PM

 

• 🔖 Bookmark the School Year Calendar

Be sure to bookmark the FCPS school year calendar to keep track of school holidays, breaks, and observances:

• Days marked with a blue “H” are student holidays. Schools are closed on these days.
• Days marked with an orange “O” are religious and cultural observance days (or evenings if only half marked). There is school on these days, but certain events that cannot be made up may not be scheduled on these days. 
• Days marked in pink are holidays for students, but working days for teachers and staff.

Note: Some holidays and observances, such as Eid al-Fitr, may shift and the calendar may be adjusted. 

Limited Early Release Mondays for Elementary Schools: Steering Committee Update

 

As a reminder, FCPS elementary schools will have limited early release Mondays during the upcoming school year. The goal is to provide elementary teachers with additional time to meet new professional development requirements for the Virginia Literacy Act.

You can help us with planning for the seven early release Mondays. Please watch your email for a short survey from us asking if your child will leave at the early release time on these days or remain at school until the standard dismissal time. Your response will help us in planning activities for students who will need to stay at school until regular dismissal time.

We realize there are many details for us to finalize before our first early release Monday in mid-September. Thank you for your patience, we strive to create a positive and successful experience for students, families, and teachers. 

Early release Mondays for our school include:

• September 16
• October 21
• November 18
• February 10
• March 10
• April 21
• May 12

Free Workshops for Families

Parents and caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Learn more about the Family Resource Center (FRC).

In September, the FRC will host webinars for families on supporting siblings of children with disabilities, helping students organize their school work, working with children who like to push boundaries, and teen development and well-being. Sign up for the FRC newsletter for their latest offerings or visit their webinar website.

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

 

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:

• Prepare for the First Day of School
• FCPS.edu Has a New Look
• Free Resources and Workshops for Families

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

8001 Newington Forest Ave. Springfield, VA 22153  |  Phone: 703.923.2600

Attendance: 703.923.2626  |  Web  |  Twitter

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

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Monday, June 10-

Kindergarten Flag Day Performance– 9am-10am

1st Grade Flag Day Performance– 2:15pm-3:15pm

Tuesday, June 11- 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony, 9:30am-11:30am, Cafeteria

Wednesday, June 12- Last Day of School– 2 Hour Early Release Day, Beginning at 1:35PM

Our senior class of 2024 embarked on their final walk through the halls of Newington Forest Elementary, marking a significant milestone in their educational journey.

As our seniors prepare to graduate and pursue new endeavors, we want to take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of them.

Their visit to Newington Forest Elementary was not only a trip down memory lane but also a chance for our younger students to look up to these seniors as role models and be inspired by their achievements.

To our seniors: as you move forward, remember that you will always be a part of the Newington Forest Elementary family. "Once A Knight, Always A Knight" is a testament to the enduring bond you share with our school and community.

We wish our seniors all the best as they enter their next chapter. May your futures be filled with success, happiness, and endless opportunities.

Congratulations, Class of 2024! We are incredibly proud of you.

Wednesday, June 12 is the last day of school. Students will be released 2 hours early beginning at 1:35pm.  Medication Pick Up Reminder 

The school health room is reminding parents and guardians that all medication stored in the health room must be picked up no later than the student dismissal time on the last day of school, 1:30pm on June 12. Medication left in the health room after that time will be destroyed. It is school policy that medications must be picked up by the parent or guardian. Medication cannot be sent home with your student. If your student will be enrolled in a summer program sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools, the existing medication authorization form(s) may be used for the summer program. If you have any questions, please contact your school health room aide, Jessica Tyeryar at 703-923-2610, or your school public health nurse, Andrea Madayag at [email protected].”

Is your child missing a jacket, umbrella, lunch kit, water bottle? If so, please check out our lost and found. All items not claimed by Wednesday, June 12 will be donated. 

Students will have access to ST Math all summer long!  There are many ways you can use ST Math during the summer break. The important thing to remember is that every Learning Objective, starting from the very first one, adds its little increment to student math content understanding. Students will be able to continue in their current grade level until about one week before school starts.  

 

ST Math Summer Flyer

SCHS Basketball Camp 

Who: Basketball Enthusiasts Ages 7 - 15, Boys
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Cost: $207 per session
($195 + $12 Fee)
$185.50 per session for additional siblings
($175 + $10.50 Fee)
Save $20 if you sign up for  multiple sessions
Location: South County HS Gym (Entrance #12)

Registration Link:

https://www.stallionsboysbasketball.com/basketball-camp.cfm

📈 SOL Scores Posted in SIS ParentVUE

Families can find Standards of Learning (SOL) reports for spring testing in the SIS ParentVUE Documents section on or before the last day of school. Log in to your ParentVUE account to access the following:

• For all students, the official SOL Score Report with overall and reporting category performance for all spring tests.
• For grade 3-8 students, the SOL Growth Parent Report shows performance over time for state reading and math tests completed this school year.

Visit the FCPS website for additional information about spring assessment reporting practices and timelines.

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.

INOVA Back to School Pediatric Health Fairs

Inova Cares Clinic (ICC) will provide children ages 5+ with free school entrance physicals and immunizations at summer health fairs for children on Medicaid or who are uninsured. The clinics will take place 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on the following dates:

• Saturday, June 29, at ICC for Children - Manassas
• Saturday, July 20, at ICC for Children - Herndon
• Saturday, August 17, at ICC for Children - Falls Church

Appointments are required. No walk-ins will be allowed. Call 703-698-2550 for an appointment.

Virtual Mental Wellness Consultations

This summer, the FCPS Office of Intervention and Prevention Services will offer virtual Mental Wellness Consultations from Monday, June 24, through Friday, August 2. Any FCPS parent or secondary student can schedule a 45-minute consultation with a school psychologist or social worker by phone or videoconference. 

 

Parents of students in any grade level can request a consultation to receive guidance on how to support their child’s social, emotional, and academic success. Information about community resources will also be provided.

 

Middle or high school students can request a consultation to receive guidance and support for concerns related to anxiety, mood, behavior, peer or family interactions, or school transitions and changes. Strategies and tools can also be provided to address academic challenges such as organization and time management.

 

We encourage all families to take advantage of this service. Request a consultation or call and leave a message at 703-503-2520.

Summer Fun for All! Summer Camps and Adapted Recreation

The Family Resource Center (FRC) has a list of dozens of summer camps including general camps, camps for students with a variety of needs, and camps for children of military personnel. 

They’ve also prepared a list of adapted resources, sorted by activity, that are inclusive for children and adults of various physical abilities. 

Learn more by calling 703-204-3941, emailing [email protected], or visiting the FRC webpage.

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story so we can all acknowledge the good work of our Newington Forest staff members.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:

• End-of-Year Reminders
• Summer Resources
• SOL Scores in SIS ParentVUE

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

8001 Newington Forest Ave. Springfield, VA 22153  |  Phone: 703.923.2600

Attendance: 703.923.2626  |  Web  |  Twitter

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

Để đọc bản tin này bằng các ngôn ngữ khác, vui lòng truy cập trang webcủa chúng tôi.

Mon., June 3-Wed., June 5- SCA Elections

Tuesday, June 4- 4th & 5th Grade Awards Ceremony

Wednesday, June 5- 

Grades 3-4 Field Day- 9:30am-11am

Grades 5-6 Field Day- 1:30pm-3pm

Thursday, June 6-

Get 2 Green Celebration, 11:30am-12:00pm

Talent Show Dress Rehearsal- 1:30pm-2:30pm

2nd Grade POG POL, 2pm-3pm

3rd Grade Publishing Celebration- 2pm-3pm

SCA Winners Announced

Friday, June 7- Talent Show, 9:30am-10:30am & 2pm-3pm

Monday, June 10-

Kindergarten Flag Day Performance– 9am-10am

1st Grade Flag Day Performance– 2:15pm-3:15pm

Tuesday, June 11- 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony, 9:30am-11:30am, Cafeteria

Wednesday, June 12- Last Day of School– 2 Hour Early Release Day, Beginning at 1:35PM

Today, we celebrated the incredible dedication and hard work of our patrols. These outstanding students play a vital role in keeping our school safe and secure every day.

To our patrols: Thank you for your commitment and responsibility. Your efforts make a real difference in our school community, and we appreciate you more than words can express.

Class Placement Input Reminder

Parent input is crucial in placing students in the most suitable classroom environment. We value your insights and want to ensure your child has the best possible learning experience for the 2024-2025 school year. By completing the feedback form below, you can share your preferences regarding the type of teacher and classroom setting you believe will benefit your child the most. Your input is not a guarantee of placement.  Please refrain from mentioning specific teacher names.

Please submit your classroom placement feedback through the provided link by Wednesday, June 5, 2024. You can fill out the form conveniently on your computer or mobile device. It's essential to submit your feedback before the deadline, as we cannot accept late submissions this year. 

Link to feedback form: https://forms.gle/qSGa4mWKVv4mCRSJ9

Is your child missing a jacket, umbrella, lunch kit, water bottle? If so, please check out our lost and found. All items not claimed by Wednesday, June 12 will be donated. 

School Board Votes to Adopt Fiscal Year 2025 Approved Budget

The Fairfax County School Board voted to adopt Fairfax County Public Schools’ (FCPS) Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Approved Budget at their last board meeting. The FY 2025 Approved Budget totals $3.7 billion — a net increase of $233.2 million or 6.6% over the previous year. 

The FY 2025 Approved Budget focuses on providing educational excellence for all students and ensuring that employees’ hard work and dedication are acknowledged through competitive compensation. Both of these efforts fully align with the FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

Nearly 86% of the Approved Budget is targeted at instruction. Key budget highlights include funding for a 4% compensation increase for all employees; maintaining existing class size formulas and providing necessary support to all students; and expanding athletics offerings, additional athletic trainers, and enhanced stipends for fine and performing arts.

Read the news release.

Online Campus Summer Registration Closing Soon!

Registration for summer classes with FCPS' Online Campus will close on Friday, June 7. Online campus courses are for students in grades 7-12. Email [email protected] or call 703-503-7781 with any questions.

Other Summer Learning Opportunities

Chantilly Academy will host an AFA CyberCamp from Monday, June 24, to Friday, June 28, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. This camp would be a great fit for rising fifth through eighth graders of all skill levels interested in learning more about the importance of cybersecurity and gaining skills to protect themselves and others from cyber threats. Discounts are available for students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Visit the camp website for more information.

Registration is also still available for the Institute for the Arts (IFTA) and Elementary-IFTA (E-IFTA) arts camps, and Credit Recovery Academy.

☎️ Family Information Phone Lines Available in Eight Languages

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. View the list of phone numbers.

 

💪 Let's Finish the School Year Strong!

Student attendance is important all year, up to the last day of school. Attendance affects student performance and school accreditation. See how to:

• Check your child’s attendance record.
• Help your student stay engaged at school.
• Report future absences.
• Understand the FCPS school calendar.

Learn more about attendance resources. 

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story so we can all acknowledge the good work of our Newington Forest staff members.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:

• School Board Adopts 2025 Budget
• Online Campus Summer Registration
• Family Life Education Materials Available for Review

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

8001 Newington Forest Ave. Springfield, VA 22153  |  Phone: 703.923.2600

Attendance: 703.923.2626  |  Web  |  Twitter