FCPS

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Calendar Reminders

Oct. 31- Book Character Spirit Day / End of Quarter / 2-Hour Early Release (2:00 p.m. dismissal time)

November 1 - No School, Diwali

November 4 - No School, Teacher Workday

November 5 - No School, Election Day / Teacher Workday

November 6 -  Last day to nominate a staff member for FCPS Awards 🏆

November 11- No School, Veterans Day

📅 2024-2025 FCPS School Calendar

✨📔 Book Character Spirit Day 

On Thursday, October 31st, Forestville will be having a Book/Movie Character Spirit Day. This is an opportunity for students to dress as their favorite storybook or movie character! Students should only wear "costumes" that are school appropriate. Masks, face paint, and weapons are not allowed. 

🏆Forestville Employee Awards

Each year FCPS strives to recognize outstanding staff throughout the county. This is an opportunity to recognize staff in any and all capacities. Both staff and community members can nominate Forestville Staff. You do not need to nominate for all categories. To submit a nomination for a Forestville Outstanding Employee please complete your nomination through this Google Form by November 6th. You may nominate an employee in one or more categories. All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category listed in the form. If you have questions please reach out Jennifer Wright.

🔴⚪🔵 Veterans Day Information 

We have planned several activities to honor our military connected families. On Tuesday, November 12th students are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue. We will also be hosting a Veterans Day Assembly at 9:30 a.m. on November 12th. Any family member who is Military Connected is invited to attend the assembly.

If you are interested in speaking to a grade or class about your Military service after the assembly, please contact Mrs. Schnaue.

Wall of Heroes 

If your family would like to honor a family member who is a Veteran, you are welcome to fill out the Wall of Hero’s form coming home in Tuesday . Please see Mrs. Schnaue if you’d like to participate or are in need of a form.

📝 AAP Full-Time Referrals

Deadline for Submitting Referrals: December 15

The deadline for all students in grades 2-6 to apply for full-time (formerly referred to as level IV) advanced academic services to begin at the start of the 25-26 school year is Sunday, December 15. This is a county provided date, there are no exceptions or extensions. Please plan ahead!

To initiate the screening process, please submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form through email to Elyssa McKinnon at [email protected] or submit a hard copy to the front office by 4:00 pm on Friday, December 13th.

If you have questions about the referral process, screening by the Central Selection Committee or academics, please join Elyssa McKinnon for a parent information session on November 20th in the cafeteria from 9:30-10:30 am.

✅Federal Impact Aid Survey

The Federal Impact Aid Survey will be available in ParentVUE starting Monday October 21. Be on the look out for an eNotify message from FCPS on Monday October 21 for additional instructions.

The Federal Impact Aid program provides money to districts that enroll federally connected students. Help FCPS secure funding from the Impact Aid Program by helping us identify:

• Military Families
• Federally connected families
• Families living on a military base

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12. If you would like access to ParentVUE please email Amani Kirk.

🦃Save the Date - Thanksgiving Luncheon

We are looking forward to our Thanksgiving Luncheon with families at Forestville on Thursday, November 21! Lunch times will not change for the Luncheon. 

📊The Fairfax County Youth Survey

The Fairfax County Youth Survey, a collaboration between the Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, is a comprehensive, anonymous, and voluntary survey given each year to students in grades 6, 8, 10 and 12. The survey examines behaviors, experiences, and other factors that influence the health and well-being of Fairfax County's youth. The results, published each year at https://www.fairfaxcountyyouthsurvey.com/, identify trends and areas of need, providing a snapshot of the county's youth and serving as a barometer of the community's effectiveness in fostering healthy choices in young people

If you do not wish for your child to take part in the Youth Survey, please complete the form linked here and return it to your child's school counselor no later than November 8, 2024. If you have already opted your child out of this survey using the Parental Digital Consent Portal you do not need to provide additional information to the school counselor.

📚Language Arts Grading Update

Our teachers have been hard at work teaching with the new Language Arts curriculum, and we are excited to help all of our students become strong readers and writers! This year we also have new assessments, which is how we check if your student needs extra help with reading and writing, and new Standards of Learning (SOLs).

Because of these changes, we are now teaching all of the Language Arts skills your child needs to know (and checking if they need extra help) throughout the whole school year, instead of different skills each quarter. While these skills will be new to your child in the beginning of the year, the goal is for your child to grow strong in all of their new skills by the end of the year.

This means that when you get your child’s progress report next month, it might look different. Your child’s teacher will give you more information on the new progress reporting and how we’re making sure your child is getting any extra help they might need. You can also find more information on FCPS’ Grading and Reporting webpage.

🎒 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 and others:

• Federal Impact Aid Survey
• Football Players Tackle Literacy
• Tips to Keep Children Safe

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

📅 Save These Dates!

November is packed with fun and special events! Mark these on your calendar NOW:

• November 18-22: Our Book Fair is back with tons of volunteer opportunities. 📚💙
• Ice Cream Social (11/20) and Thanksgiving Luncheon (11/21) are also that week! 🍦🦃
• November 23: Our Winter Bazaar—a festive holiday marketplace for the whole family! 🎁✨

🦃 Thanksgiving Basket Donations Needed!

As we approach Thanksgiving, let’s come together to ensure everyone enjoys a warm holiday meal. We still need 30 more baskets for families at our sister school. Rally your neighbors, friends, and community to make this season memorable! 🍂💛 Pro tip: The PTA has a limited number of pre-prepared baskets available to “buy,” so volunteers will handle the shopping for you! It’s a fantastic way to teach our children about kindness and generosity. Sign up today to spread the love! 🙏💕

 

⛄Winter Bazaar - Keep Warm and Craft On - Vendors Wanted

Our 2nd Annual Winter Bazaar is jingling its way into Forestville on November 23 from 11 AM - 3 PM! 🎄 Last year, the gym was buzzing with handcrafted jewelry, delicious food, toys, home decor, and holiday treasures. This year, we’re inviting small businesses to join us again!

If you or someone you know has a business with products that appeal to families or fit the holiday spirit, we’d love to have you. And remember—we’re not limited to crafts! 🎁 (Please, no student applications.)

For more details or to apply, simply fill out the Google form by clicking the link, and our committee will be in touch.  If you would like to help with the Bazaar and join the planning committee, email [email protected].  Let’s make this year’s Bazaar even more magical!

1085 Utterback Store Road | Great Falls, VA 22066 | 703.404.6000 
Attendance: submit online or call 703.404.6098 | Web | Twitter

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🔊 Calendar Reminder: 3-Hour Early Release TODAY

Today, Monday, October 28, students will be dismissed at 1:00 PM.

We have confirmed all students' plans for the afternoon. Students will follow the dismissal method you indicated on the Google form you filled out. Please avoid making changes to your child's dismissal plan unless absolutely necessary. If you must make a change please call the school directly at (703) 404 - 6000. 

Students remaining at FES for supervision will be dismissed at 4:00 PM.

• ❗ It is vitally important that you remain with the dismissal plan that has been communicated to school. We want to ensure all of our students get home safely, as planned, and your cooperation is needed so the school can safely and effectively manage two dismissals.
• If you plan on picking up your child between early and regular dismissal times, please know that due to high demand, this may take longer than usual.

There will be five additional times throughout the school year for early release days. The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year:

• December 9 (FCPS Date Change)
• February 24
• March 17
• April 28
• May 19

1085 Utterback Store Road | Great Falls, VA 22066 | 703.404.6000 
Attendance: submit online or call 703.404.6098 | Web | Twitter

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

Calendar Reminders

Oct 25 - PTA Skate Night

Oct. 28 - Early Dismissal @ 1:00 pm

Oct. 31- Book Character Spirit Day / End of Quarter / 2-Hour Early Release (2:00 p.m. dismissal time)

November 1 - No School, Diwali

November 4 - No School, Teacher Workday

November 5 - No School, Election Day / Teacher Workday

November 6 -  Last day to nominate a staff member for FCPS Awards 🏆

November 11- No School, Veterans Day

📅 2024-2025 FCPS School Calendar

🏆Forestville Employee Awards

Each year FCPS strives to recognize outstanding staff throughout the county. This is an opportunity to recognize staff in any and all capacities. Both staff and community members can nominate Forestville Staff. You do not need to nominate for all categories. To submit a nomination for a Forestville Outstanding Employee please complete your nomination through this Google Form by November 6th. You may nominate an employee in one or more categories. All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category listed in the form. If you have questions please reach out Jennifer Wright.

✨📔 Book Character Spirit Day 

On Thursday, October 31st, Forestville will be having a Book/Movie Character Spirit Day. This is an opportunity for students to dress as their favorite storybook or movie character! Students should only wear "costumes" that are school appropriate. Masks, face paint, and weapons are not allowed. 

📖Virginia Language and Literacy Screening System (VALLSS) Reports 

This fall, all students in grades K-2 and some students in grade 3 were assessed using a new screener, VALLSS. Be on the lookout for a report detailing information about the screener and your child’s score. 

• For families with SIS Parentvue accounts, this will be available October 25 in the documents section.
• If you have not yet set up your ParentVue, we will send home a paper copy of the score report the following week. If you need assistance setting up your account, please email Amani Kirk.

If you have questions about the contents of these reports, please reach out to your child’s teacher for further insight.

🦃Save the Date - Thanksgiving Luncheon

We are looking forward to our Thanksgiving Luncheon with families at Forestville on Thursday, November 21! Lunch times will not change for the Luncheon. 

📊The Fairfax County Youth Survey

The Fairfax County Youth Survey, a collaboration between the Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, is a comprehensive, anonymous, and voluntary survey given each year to students in grades 6, 8, 10 and 12. The survey examines behaviors, experiences, and other factors that influence the health and well-being of Fairfax County's youth. The results, published each year at https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/youthsurvey, identify trends and areas of need, providing a snapshot of the county's youth and serving as a barometer of the community's effectiveness in fostering healthy choices in young people

If you do not wish for your child to take part in the Youth Survey, please complete the form linked here and return it to your child's school counselor no later than November 8, 2024. If you have already opted your child out of this survey using the Parental Digital Consent Portal you do not need to provide additional information to the school counselor.

🎤 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. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle School.

Events take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

🍎Celebrating the Power of School Lunches

Multiple studies show that school lunches are important in supporting overall student health by improving students’ diets and combating food insecurity. Students who eat school lunches consume more fruit, vegetables, and fiber than their peers. 

This School Lunch Week, FCPS Food and Nutrition Services reminds families that they are dedicated to providing flavorful, healthy, sustainable, and student-focused meals. Also, new menu items have been launched this year based on student feedback. 

Want to know what’s for breakfast or lunch? Nutrition Services now has printable menus.

📝Federal Impact Aid Survey

The Federal Impact Aid Survey will be available in ParentVUE starting Monday October 21. Be on the look out for an eNotify message from FCPS on Monday October 21 for additional instructions.

The Federal Impact Aid program provides money to districts that enroll federally connected students. Help FCPS secure funding from the Impact Aid Program by helping us identify:

• Military Families
• Federally connected families
• Families living on a military base

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12. If you would like access to ParentVUE please email Amani Kirk.

📰FCPS News

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

• FCPS Family Orientation
• Community Conversations
• Immunization Clinics

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

🔗 Stay Connected with Forestville

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on school events, important announcements, and highlights from our amazing school community. Don’t miss out - join us online today!

🧊Join us for Skate Night!

Join us for Forestville Elementary Skate Night on

When: Friday, October 25th, 7:30pm - 9:30pm

Cost: $8 per person and it’s $10 at the door - get your tickets now!!

Fun: 🎫Raffle prizes will be available

🎨🎶🎬 2024-2025 Reflections Program is here!

Do you enjoy art, music and dance or have an interest in writing, producing films and taking photos? Then join us and have fun unleashing your inner artist with PTA Reflections!

Explore the 2024-2025 theme, Accepting Imperfection, which serves as a powerful reminder that our flaws and mistakes are just as much a part of us as our strengths and are a natural and beautiful part of being human.

Please see links and visit https://www.pta.org/home/programs/reflections or vapta.org for rules for each category and the official entry form: Fillable entry form

Entries are due to PTA no later than November 15th, 2024 at [email protected]. For more information, you can contact Rehenuma Asmi, our Reflections Chair.

⛄Winter Bazaar - Vendors Wanted!

Winter Bazaar - Keep Warm and Craft On - Vendors Wanted

Our 2nd Annual Winter Bazaar is jingling its way into Forestville on November 23 from 11 AM - 3 PM! 🎄 Last year, the gym was buzzing with handcrafted jewelry, delicious food, toys, home decor, and holiday treasures. This year, we’re inviting small businesses to join us again!

If you or someone you know has a business with products that appeal to families or fit the holiday spirit, we’d love to have you. And remember—we’re not limited to crafts! 🎁 (Please, no student applications.)

For more details or to apply, simply fill out the Google form by clicking the link, and our committee will be in touch.  If you would like to help with the Bazaar and join the planning committee, email [email protected].  Let’s make this year’s Bazaar even more magical!

1085 Utterback Store Road | Great Falls, VA 22066 | 703.404.6000 
Attendance: submit online or call 703.404.6098 | Web | Twitter

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Calendar Updates

October 14 -No School, Teacher Workday

October 25th - PTA Skate Night 🧊

October 28 - 3-Hour Early Release Monday, (1:00 p.m. dismissal) ❗ please fill out form below!

October 31- Book Character Spirit Day ✨ / End of Quarter 1 / 2-Hour Early Release (2:00 p.m. dismissal time) 

November 1- No School, Diwali

November 4- No School, Teacher Workday

November 5- No School, Election Day / Teacher Workday 

November 11- No School, Veterans Day

⌚October 28th Early Release Monday - Action Required! 

Thank you for your support and patience during our first early release Monday. Please know that as we begin planning for our next early release Monday on October 28, we will adhere to the following protocols:

• ❗We are asking everyone to please complete this updated form to indicate selections for your family. Please fill out a form for each student you have at Forestville. 
• New! SACC will be open starting at 1:00 p.m. for those students who are already enrolled in after-school SACC.  All students participating in after-school SACC, as noted on the google form above, will be dismissed directly to SACC at 1:00 p.m.   
• We understand family needs may shift however, we are asking for families to please try and limit last minute dismissal changes for early release Mondays. Should you have a list minute dismissal change for Monday October 28th please email [email protected]. This is to ensure that all students go home safely and correctly. 

✨📔 Book Character Spirit Day 

On Thursday, October 31st, Forestville will be having a Book/Movie Character Spirit Day. This is an opportunity for students to dress as their favorite storybook or movie character! Students should only wear "costumes" that are school appropriate. Masks, face paint, and weapons are not allowed. 

💻Digital Citizenship Week

Digital Citizenship Week is October 14, 2024, through October 18, 2024. This year's Digital Citizenship Week focuses on supporting student's mental and physical health in relation to technology use.

Be sure to check out the Digital Equity and Inclusion website, where you can learn how to:

1. Find Free WiFi
2. Borrow a Computer
3. Visit Fairfax Access Locations
4. Take Free Tech Classes
5. Sign up for an ACP Internet Discount

Families can access the Media Balance and Wellbeing Toolkit to support the healthy use of technology. FCPS will continue leading efforts to promote a positive culture of media and technology use, supporting both students and their families.

🔗 Stay Connected with Forestville

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on school events, important announcements, and highlights from our amazing school community. Don’t miss out - join us online today!📸

🦃Save the Date - Thanksgiving Luncheon

We are looking forward to our Thanksgiving Luncheon with families at Forestville on Thursday, November 21! Please save the date, and stay tuned for additional details.

📰FCPS News

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

• Learn About Lexia for Literacy
• Schools Win Exemplar Awards
• Upcoming Community Conversations

🌴🥤 ☀️ Blending Up Funds for Our School - 10/18

Get ready for a tropical twist! On 10/18 from 5-8pm, join us for an evening of yummy sips and bites while raising funds for our wonderful school! 🍹🌮 Let’s sip, snack, and celebrate together while giving back to Forestville!

 

🧊Join us for Skate Night!

Join us for Forestville Elementary Skate Night on

When: Friday, October 25th, 7:30pm - 9:30pm

Cost: $8 per person and it’s $10 at the door - get your tickets now!!

Fun: 🎫Raffle prizes will be available

 

🎨🎶🎬 2024-2025 Reflections Program is here!

Do you enjoy art, music and dance or have an interest in writing, producing films and taking photos? Then join us and have fun unleashing your inner artist with PTA Reflections!

Explore the 2024-2025 theme, Accepting Imperfection, which serves as a powerful reminder that our flaws and mistakes are just as much a part of us as our strengths and are a natural and beautiful part of being human.

Please see links and visit https://www.pta.org/home/programs/reflections or vapta.org for rules for each category and the official entry form: Fillable entry form

Entries are due to PTA no later than November 15th, 2024 at [email protected]. For more information, you can contact Rehenuma Asmi, our Reflections Chair.

⛄Winter Bazaar - Vendors Wanted!

Winter Bazaar - Keep Warm and Craft On - Vendors Wanted

Our 2nd Annual Winter Bazaar is jingling its way into Forestville on November 23 from 11 AM - 3 PM! 🎄 Last year, the gym was buzzing with handcrafted jewelry, delicious food, toys, home decor, and holiday treasures. This year, we’re inviting small businesses to join us again!

If you or someone you know has a business with products that appeal to families or fit the holiday spirit, we’d love to have you. And remember—we’re not limited to crafts! 🎁 (Please, no student applications.)

For more details or to apply, simply fill out the Google form by clicking the link, and our committee will be in touch.  If you would like to help with the Bazaar and join the planning committee, email [email protected].  Let’s make this year’s Bazaar even more magical!

1085 Utterback Store Road | Great Falls, VA 22066 | 703.404.6000 
Attendance: submit online or call 703.404.6098 | Web | Twitter

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

Calendar Reminders 🐦

October 14 -No School, Teacher Workday

October 28 - 3-Hour Early Release Monday, (1:00 p.m. dismissal) *please fill out form below!

October 31- Book Character Spirit Day / End of Quarter 1 / 2-Hour Early Release (2:00 p.m. dismissal time) 

November 1- No School, Diwali

November 4- No School, Teacher Workday

November 5- No School, Election Day / Teacher Workday 

November 11- No School, Veterans Day

⌚October 28th Early Release Monday - Action Required! 

Thank you for your support and patience during our first early release Monday. Please know that as we begin planning for our next early release Monday on October 28, we will adhere to the following protocols:

• ❗We are asking everyone to please complete this updated form to indicate selections for your family. Please fill out a form for each student you have at Forestville. 
• New! SACC will be open starting at 1:00 p.m. for those students who are already enrolled in after-school SACC.  All students participating in after-school SACC, as noted on the google form above, will be dismissed directly to SACC at 1:00 p.m.   
• We understand family needs may shift however, we are asking for families to please try and limit last minute dismissal changes for early release Mondays. Should you have a list minute dismissal change for Monday October 28th please email [email protected]. This is to ensure that all students go home safely and correctly. 

🚘Kiss n Ride Reminders

Here are a few reminders as it relates to Kiss n Ride at arrival and dismissal: 

• Please remember that our Kiss n Ride staff will start heading into the school at 9:13am to be ready to start the school day. Please do not leave your child if there is not a Kiss n Ride staff member present. 
• Students should not be exiting or entering the car from the drivers side of the car. All students should be exiting or entering from the passenger side of the car in order to keep everyone safe.
• Please do not try and pass another car in the Kiss n Ride line, unless a staff member tells you to do so. 
• If you arrive after the school day has started, please come inside to the main office to check your child in. 
• Please have students ready to exit the car when the car pulls up for drop off (this includes jackets, backpacks, instruments and anything else they need for the school day)
• It is our goal to have the students in the first five (5) cars in line, ready to exit their cars (for example: if your car is third in line, have your child exit the car. Please do not wait to pull up to be the first car in line in order for your child to exit the car). This will help keep the Kiss n Ride line moving.

We thank you in advance for adhering to our Kiss n Ride protocols, as this will help us be efficient while making sure that our students and staff are safe upon arrival and dismissal.

🥳 Birthday Treats Reminder

As a reminder, to ensure the safety of all our students, please refrain from bringing in edible birthday treats for the classroom or sharing them during lunchtime.

We understand that celebrations are important, so we've provided alternative ways to acknowledge students on their birthdays.If you do, please make sure to communicate with your child's teacher in advance:

Here are a few suggestions:

• Donate a book to the school or your child's class library.
• Donate a board game for indoor recess.
• Donate an item for outdoor recess games.

We are committed to allowing all our students to participate fully in celebratory activities while maintaining a safe environment. Thank you for your understanding and support in ensuring the safety and health of all our Forestville students.

🎉💃🏾🕺🏼Fun Run - Thank You!

We would like to extend our appreciation and gratitude to all of our families, teachers, and community for your support of our PTA Fun Run Fundraiser! Thank you to our PTA President, Jeanette Rachman, and our VP of Fundraising, Jackie Malkes, along with all of our PTA officers and volunteers for the time they dedicated to organizing and planning for this successful fundraiser! We will be sure to keep our community updated on how these funds are used to support S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Music) at Forestville! 

✨📔 Book Character Spirit Day 

On Thursday, October 31st, Forestville will be having a Book/Movie Character Spirit Day. This is an opportunity for students to dress as their favorite storybook or movie character! Students should only wear "costumes" that are school appropriate. Masks, face paint, and weapons are not allowed. 

🔗 Stay Connected with Forestville

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on school events, important announcements, and highlights from our amazing school community. Don’t miss out - join us online today!📸

📖What is Lexia?

Lexia Parent Nights: Lexia helps schools connect educator knowledge to classroom practice to accelerate literacy gains.

Information sessions will be offering Parent Nights on multiple dates. Information regarding the Lexia Parent Nights can be found in this flyer.

Visit the Family Academy Site for in-person and virtual classes, workshops, webinars, and programs for families.

📚 Social Studies Basal Resources Review

FCPS is adopting Social Studies Basal Resources for the 2025-26 school year. Basal resources are the primary resources used to support instruction in a given subject. Public review of the instructional materials under consideration — which is part of the process for selecting new resources — is underway. Visit the Community Review webpage for more information on how to view the materials online or in person. 

All community feedback will be shared with School Board members before they vote to select materials in spring 2025. FCPS adopts basal resources by the process outlined in Regulation 3004.

🗓️ Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

Good attendance is an important life skill that will help students succeed in school and beyond.

When planning trips or family events, refer to the FCPS calendar and try to use weekends and school holidays. Every day of learning is a day toward success. Keep in mind that absences add up quickly. Students absent 10% of the school year (or just two days per month) are considered chronically absent.

When possible, schedule appointments for your child outside of school hours. If your child needs to miss school because of an illness or another reason, you must report the absence. 

Watch this video with tips on understanding the FCPS school year calendar and visit the Attendance webpage for additional information. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

🎤 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. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Monday, October 14, at Fairhill Elementary School.
• Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle School.

Events take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

📰FCPS News

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

• All FCPS Schools Accredited
• How FCPS Is Teaching Reading and Writing
• Become a Special Education Teacher

1085 Utterback Store Road | Great Falls, VA 22066 | 703.404.6000 
Attendance: submit online or call 703.404.6098 | Web | Twitter

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

Dance Fit Today! 

The Fun Run is moving inside and turning into a Dance Fit party! 💃🕺 

With exception of Kindergarten, the run will take place during grade-level specials time (see schedule below). There will be a dedicated cheering section for parents who would like to come. Parents will need to sign in at the main office before going to the gym. Please have students dress appropriately for the Dance Fit party.

🎉 Dance Fit Schedule:

9:30 – 10:20   3rd Grade

10:30 – 11:20 2nd Grade

11:30 – 12:20 1st Grade & Kindergarten 

12:30 – 1:20   6th Grade

1:30 – 2:20     5th Grade

2:50 – 3:40     4th Grade

1085 Utterback Store Road | Great Falls, VA 22066 | 703.404.6000 
Attendance: submit online or call 703.404.6098 | Web | Twitter

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Oct. 2 - Dance Fit / Boosterthon Indoors ❗🎉TOMORROW *see below for updated schedule

Oct 3 - No School (Rosh Hashanah)

Oct. 4 - No School (Teacher Work Day)

Oct. 14 - No School (Indigenous People Day / Teacher Work Day)

Oct 25 - PTA Skate Night

Oct. 28- Early Release Monday Dismissal @ 1:00 pm

Oct. 31- Book Character Spirit Day / End of Quarter Early Release @ 2:00 pm

📅 2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

Dance Fit Tomorrow! 

The Fun Run is moving inside and turning into a Dance Fit party! 💃🕺 

With exception of Kindergarten, the run will take place during grade-level specials time (see schedule below). There will be a dedicated cheering section for parents who would like to come. Parents will need to sign in at the main office before going to the gym. Please have students dress appropriately for the Fun Run.

🎉 Dance Fit Schedule:

9:30 – 10:20   3rd Grade

10:30 – 11:20 2nd Grade

11:30 – 12:20 1st Grade & Kindergarten 

12:30 – 1:20   6th Grade

1:30 – 2:20     5th Grade

2:50 – 3:40     4th Grade

💗 Custodian Appreciation Day!

Tuesday, October 2nd is Custodian Appreciation Day! Today and every day we celebrate the FES custodial team for their commitment to our students, staff, and community. Not only do they support the maintenance of the school and grounds but they also work outside of school hours to open the building to the community for practices, meetings and events. FES has the best custodial staff around and we are so thankful for all they do! 🎉🥳

🗓️Monday, October 28th: 3-Hour Early Release

Monday, October 28th is our next 3-hour early release for students.  We will be sending all K-6 families an updated electronic form next week for our upcoming 3-hour early release on Monday, October 28th. We are asking all families to review the information and complete the form as soon as possible.

🎤 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. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Monday, October 14, at Fairhill Elementary School.
• Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle School.

Events take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

🗓️ Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

Good attendance is an important life skill that will help students succeed in school and beyond.

When planning trips or family events, refer to the FCPS calendar and try to use weekends and school holidays. Every day of learning is a day toward success. Keep in mind that absences add up quickly. Students absent 10% of the school year (or just two days per month) are considered chronically absent.

When possible, schedule appointments for your child outside of school hours. If your child needs to miss school because of an illness or another reason, you must report the absence. 

Watch this video with tips on understanding our school calendar and visit our Attendance webpage for additional information. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

✅Students to Be Surveyed on Social-Emotional Learning

FCPS is committed to supporting the mental wellness of all students. The Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener helps our students share their perspectives on how their schools and communities support them and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.

The screener is offered to all students in grades 3 through 12 in the fall and spring. It addresses skills such as achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students. 

After each screening, results will be available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who don’t have a ParentVUE account. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

Families who wish to opt their child out may do so by completing the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or SIS ParentVUE. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact our front office. 

Please note that the SEL Screener is not the same as the anonymous Fairfax County Youth Survey, which will take place later this fall.

🧠Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

Children go through a lot of changes, and it can be hard to tell if their behavior is developmentally appropriate or if they could benefit from mental health support. It’s important to talk to your child and pay attention to their actions, especially these warning signs:

• Increased irritability, hyperactivity, energy, and/or aggressive behavior.
• Excessive sadness, hopelessness, or worries.
• Loss of appetite, or significant weight gain or loss.
• Lack of sleep or too much sleep.
• A decline in grades, school avoidance, or attendance concerns.
• Alcohol or drug use.
• Withdrawal from activities and/or friends and family. 
• Thoughts of harming themselves or others.

If you notice any of these warning signs or feel your child may be experiencing a mental health challenge, help is available. Find additional ways to support your child’s wellness. 

If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis such as thoughts of harming themselves or others, please take action right away. Call 988, go to the nearest emergency room, or contact the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Emergency Services at 703-573-5679.

FCPS Trust Policy Supports Caring Culture

Fairfax County Public Schools is proud of its caring culture and strives to provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for all students and families. The FCPS Trust Policy solidifies this commitment and aligns with Fairfax County Government's Public Trust and Confidentiality Policy. It ensures that FCPS students and families can access FCPS benefits and services without fear that information will be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to federal immigration officials. Please visit FCPS’ Trust Policy webpage to learn more about the policy and regulation in multiple languages.

📰FCPS News

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

• FCPS Wants to Further Support Military Families
• Sign and Return SR&R
• Upcoming Immunization Clinics

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

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September 25th - AAP Information Family Meeting *see below for more information

October 2nd - PTA/Boosterthon Fun Run

October 3rd: Rosh Hashanah Holiday - No School

Friday, October 4th:  Student Holiday/Teacher Workday

📅 2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

🎠Fall Carnival Thank you! 

What a fantastic Fall Carnival! We were thrilled to see so many of our families join us on Friday. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect as a community.

📢🥳 A very special shoutout and THANK YOU to all of our amazing volunteers for their hard work, dedication, and support! 

🌟 Blue Start Welcome Week

This year, Forestville Elementary will be honoring our Military Connected students and their families during the week of September 21 to 29. We will host a breakfast for all Military Families and their kids on Thursday, September 26th, 2024, at 8:30 am.

This breakfast is a way to thank our Military Families for their service and connecting new Military Families with current Military Families. Bagels, coffee, and juice will be provided.

Please RSVP to Mrs. Schnaue at [email protected]. If you have any questions about this event, please reach out to Mrs. Schnaue!

AAP Information Session - Tomorrow!

Tomorrow, September 25th from 9:15 - 10:00 am in the Forestville cafeteria Mrs. McKinnon will host a Parent/Guardian Information Meeting regarding an Introduction to AAP and an overview of the Continuum of Available Services through Fairfax County Public Schools, and specifically, Forestville Elementary. This information session will be open to all K-6 families. A slide-deck with information will be shared with families in our next newsletter.

📰Advanced Academics Program Fall Newsletter

Please click below to review the fall newsletters from the Advanced Academics Program Office. You’ll find translations in Arabic, English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, and Vietnamese here. 

Advanced Academic Program Fall Newsletter. 

👋🏾Dismissal Reminders: 

To minimize disruptions and ensure a smooth dismissal, please avoid pick-ups after 3:30 p.m. whenever possible. If you need to pick up your child after 3:30 p.m., please call the main office to let us know, and your child can use kiss & ride.

Please use the online Change of Transportation Form to notify the school of any changes to your child’s daily transportation. Changes must be submitted by 12:00 PM daily in order to allow adequate time for our office staff to distribute the forms to teachers and students before dismissal each day. 

If going home with a friend, both parents must submit a Change of Transportation form. This ensures that both parents are aware of any changes taking place.

Thank you for your cooperation in helping us ensure a safe and orderly dismissal for all our students!

👟Boosterthon Kickoff 

Our PTA Booster Fundraiser kicked off today! This year, our school is raising funds to purchase Science 🧪, Technology 🤖, Engineering 🏭, Art 🎨, and Music 🥁 (S.T.E.A.M.) materials.

Here’s how you can support Forestville Elem:

1. Register on mybooster.com tonight 
2. Share about our fundraiser with your family and friends using the SHARE BUTTON on mybooster.com.

Thank you for supporting our school! We can’t wait for the Forestville Fun Run happening on 10/02/2024!

Early Release Monday

Our first 3 hour early release day for students was a success and we want to thank everyone for their patience and support to ensure that all students arrived home safely. Our next 3 hour early release will be held on Monday, October 28th, and we will send a new form for families to select their student's option for early release. 

📃Community Flyer Distribution 

In accordance with Fairfax County Public Schools Regulation 1367.1, Forestville Elementary allows non-profit organizations to distribute information to school families electronically. Materials will be sent via FCPS News You Choose twice yearly — fall and spring.

All flyers and proof of 501(c)(3) must be submitted to FES Administrative Assistant, Jennifer Wright, at [email protected], for prior approval. All non-profit flyers must include the following disclaimer: “These materials are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or this school.”

All flyers must be received by Friday, October 4, 2024 to be included in the Fall Distribution and by Friday, April 4, 2025 to be included in the Spring Distribution. 

📰FCPS News

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

• FCPS Trust Policy

• Students to Be Surveyed on Social-Emotional Learning
• Update Immunizations Today! 

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

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🔊 Calendar Reminder: 3-Hour Early Release TODAY

Today, Monday, September 23, students will be dismissed at 1:00 PM.

We have confirmed all students' plans for the afternoon. Students will follow the dismissal method you indicated on the paper form that went home last week unless you've emailed the teacher and/or the office to make a change. 

Students remaining at FES for supervision will be dismissed at 4:00 PM.

• ❗ It is vitally important that you remain with the dismissal plan that has been communicated to school. We want to ensure all of our students get home safely, as planned, and your cooperation is needed so the school can safely and effectively manage two dismissals.
• If you plan on picking up your child between early and regular dismissal times, please know that due to high demand, this may take longer than usual.

There will be six additional times throughout the school year for early release days. The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year:

• October 28
• December 9 (FCPS Date Change)
• February 24
• March 17
• April 28
• May 19

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🎉🍂 Fall Carnival TOMORROW! 

Our Fall Carnival is TOMORROW and you don’t want to miss all the FUN! We’ve got a dunk tank (featuring TEN of your favorite teachers!), a photo booth for the perfect snapshots, an epic obstacle course, and of course, tons of cotton candy and popcorn! 🎠🍭

Tickets are selling fast, so grab yours now and be part of all the action! 🎟️

Don't forget to fuel-up to start by pre-ordering your Chick Fil A Sandwich!  

Plus, we’ll have amazing food trucks serving up delicious bites throughout the event! 🍔🌮

P.S. We still have opportunities to volunteer, especially for teens! It’s a great way to get involved and earn service hours while having a blast!

See you at the carnival! 🎪✨

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Calendar Reminders 

September 20th - PTA Fall Carnival 🎉 *we need volunteers - see below to sign-up! 

September 23rd - Early Release Monday *students released at 1:00 p.m. 

September 25th - AAP Information Family Meeting *see below for more information

October 2nd - PTA/Boosterthon Fun Run

📅 2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

🗓️Early Release Monday Dismissal

In order to ensure a smooth dismissal during our 3-hour early release on Monday, September 23, your student(s) came home with a confirmation letter for you to complete. If you have not already done so, please confirm how your student(s) will be dismissed on Monday, September 23, and return the letter to your student’s classroom teacher.

📢 Volunteer for our Fall Carnival 

We still need MANY need volunteers to help make our Fall Carnival a fun event for our kiddos!

• Please sign up here to volunteer 🤝🏼
• Click here to Buy Carnival Tickets 🎫
• Click here to Pre-order Chick Fil A 🍔

📰Advanced Academics Program Fall Newsletter

Please click below to review the fall newsletters from the Advanced Academics Program Office. You’ll find translations in Arabic, English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, and Vietnamese here. 

Advanced Academic Program Fall Newsletter. 

AAP Information Session

On Wednesday, September 25th from 9:15 - 10:00 am in the Forestville cafeteria Mrs. McKinnon will host a Parent/Guardian Information Meeting regarding an Introduction to AAP and an overview of the Continuum of Available Services through Fairfax County Public Schools, and specifically, Forestville Elementary. This information session will be open to all K-6 families.

❗Identification Reminder 

Please remember to bring a valid photo ID with you when checking into the school and when picking up your child from school early. All visitors will be required to use the computer check-in system when visiting the school. There will also be times that a staff member may request a photo ID when picking up a student. We have a few new faces working in our front office and want to ensure everyone has identification when picking up a student. Thank you! 

🩹 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. 

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. 

📰 FCPS News

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

• Caregiver Checklist
• 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.  

🤝🏼Join the PTA! 

Click here to join the PTA! 

📰PTA Newsletter 

Click here to read our most recent PTA newsletter! 

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Calendar Reminders 

September 10th - PTA General Meeting @ 7:00 p.m. in cafeteria

September 13th - Principal's Coffee @ 9:30 a.m. 

September 20th - PTA Fall Carnival 🎉 *see flyer below

September 23rd - Early Release Monday *students released at 1:00 p.m. 

September 25th - AAP Information Family Meeting *see below for more information

October 2nd - PTA/Boosterthon Fun Run

📅 2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

❗Identification Reminder 

Please remember to bring a valid photo ID with you when checking into the school and when picking up your child from school early. All visitors will be required to use the computer check-in system when visiting the school. There will also be times that a staff member may request a photo ID when picking up a student. We have a few new faces working in our front office and want to ensure everyone has identification when picking up a student. Thank you! 

📝Opt-Out Flier

The 2024-25 Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms flyer is now online. If you wish to opt your child out of any of the activities mentioned in the opt-out booklet, you must complete and return the appropriate forms to your child’s school or online through the Parent Digital Consent system.

💻Digital Resource Consent Form

We want your child to get the most out of their school experience! To open up a world of exciting activities and valuable opportunities, we need your collaboration. Please take a moment at the beginning of the school year to review and provide your consent through our Parent Digital Consent system. Please reach out to Heather Kattera, our School-Based Technology Specialist, if you have questions.

📰Advanced Academics Program Fall Newsletter

Please click below to review the fall newsletters from the Advanced Academics Program Office. You’ll find translations in Arabic, English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, and Vietnamese here. 

Advanced Academic Program Fall Newsletter. 

AAP Information Session

On Wednesday, September 25th from 9:15 - 10:00 am in the Forestville cafeteria Mrs. McKinnon will host a Parent/Guardian Information Meeting regarding an Introduction to AAP and an overview of the Continuum of Available Services through Fairfax County Public Schools, and specifically, Forestville Elementary. This information session will be open to all K-6 families.

🌟Student Rights and Responsibilities 

FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities document (SR&R) explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. Read Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid’s letter to families regarding the SR&R. 

Parents/caregivers should talk to their child(ren) about expectations for this school year. Also, please log in to SIS ParentVUE and sign to acknowledge your review of the SR&R, or sign and return the signature sheet to your child’s school by Monday, September 30.

You can submit questions online regarding the SR&R.

🍎 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. 

📱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.

Family Webinar Proven Systems for Solving Disorganization, Procrastination, and Missed Deadlines with Ann Dolin

Join Educational Connections Founder and President Ann Dolin, M.Ed., an experienced author, educator, and advocate for this important webinar.

September 13, 2024 10-11 a.m.  -  Register online

Unrelenting patterns of disorganization, procrastination, and late assignments wear down and discourage many parents of students (especially those with ADHD and other learning differences) as the school year grinds on. But it doesn’t have to be this way!

In this webinar, Ann will discuss:

• What a system is and why sustainable systems are game changers for kids

• Uncover which type of procrastinator your child is, from crisis-maker to dreamer, and get personalized solutions for each procrastination style

• How your child can effectively use a calendar system to combat procrastination and meet deadlines head-on
• Strategies to help your student maintain order with easy-to-implement organizational routines, like the Clean Sweep and Launching Pad
• Communication starters to develop a relationship of trust at the start of the school year and how to nurture it for a smooth academic journey

📰District News

FCPS NewsIn 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
• Community Conversations with Dr. Reid

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

🤝🏼Join the PTA! 

Click here to join the PTA! 

📰PTA Newsletter 

Click here to read our most recent PTA newsletter! 

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🌟Back to School Night TONIGHT Wednesday, August 28th

• Session 1- 6:00 - 6:40 p.m.
• Session 2- 6:45 - 7:05 p.m. (Specialists in Cafeteria) 
• Session 3- 7:10 - 7:50pm

Session 1 and 3 will be hosted by your child's teacher, in their classroom, and contain the same information in each session. The additional session is for families who have multiple children at Forestville.

This is a caregiver only event; we ask that you arrange childcare for your children so you can attend fully to the information being presented.

We look forward to seeing you tonight! 

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Calendar Reminders

Aug 28 - Back to School Night 🌟*see below for more information

Aug 30 - No School (Labor Day Holiday)

Sept 2 - No School (Labor Day Holiday)

Sep 20 - PTA Fall Carnival 🍂🎉

Sept 23 - Early Release Monday #1

Oct 3 - No School (Rosh Hashanah)

Oct. 4 -No School (Teacher Work Day)

✅Early Release Mondays Survey

Please complete this form for each of your children who are enrolled at Forestville Elementary. The form covers the first two early release Mondays, scheduled for September 23, 2024, and October 28, 2024. If you have multiple children, you will need to submit multiple forms.

Our instructional staff will be in professional development and will not be available, so we need to plan for student supervision and again ask you complete the survey as soon as possible!

🌟Back to School Night  Wednesday, August 28th

• Session 1- 6:00 - 6:40 p.m.
• Session 2- 6:45 - 7:05 p.m. (Specialists in Cafeteria) 
• Session 3- 7:10 - 7:50pm

Session 1 and 3 will be hosted by your child's teacher, in their classroom, and contain the same information in each session. The additional session is for families who have multiple children at Forestville.

This is an adult-only event; we ask that you arrange childcare for your children so you can attend fully to the information being presented.

📝Opt-Out Information

The 2024-25 Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms flyer is now online. If you wish to opt your child out of any of the activities mentioned in the opt-out booklet, you must complete and return the appropriate forms to your child’s school or online through the Parent Digital Consent system.

🚨Emergency Care Card Form - Update 

Emergency Care Card Forms are important in helping us contact you in case of an emergency. Parents can help by assuring that the school has the most up-to-date information. 

Please update any information by using the ParentVue/Online Verification Update system.  To read more about the OVU, visit the OVU page on the FCPS site. To access your ParentVue to update/verify, visit the ParentVue Login page. 

🍴Cafeteria Hostess Needed

Dining Room Assistant : $13.11 per Hour 

Hours: Monday - Friday 10:30 - 2:00 p.m. 

Description: Assists students during lunch time. Supervises student clean-up, keeps order, and dismisses students to their teachers.

Qualifications: Friendly, energetic, and assertive in maintaining expectations of cafeteria behavior, and loves working with children.

Please email Ms.Carlson if interested. 

🔍 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.

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.

📰FCPS News

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

• 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. 

🍂Fall Carnival Committee Dunk Tank, Cotton Candy and Games, Oh My!

Many thanks to our Fall Carnival Chairs, Denise Gramsky, Janina Inselman and Jeanette Rachman, for volunteering to plan one of our biggest events of the year. 

If you would like to help out and join our committee, please email [email protected].  There are so many ways you can help out so please consider joining our fun team :)

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Great First Day at Forestville!

It was so nice seeing all of our students smiling faces back in the school today! Our students did a nice job transitioning back to school and I want to thank our staff for all they did to help prepare for our students return and a great first day!

Early Release Mondays Survey

Today is the last day to complete the Early Release Mondays Survey. Please help us out by making sure that you complete the survey so that we have the most accurate data we can have in order to prepare for those early release Mondays.

An enotify email was sent out to all Forestville families on Monday, August 12th, titled 'Response Required - 3 Hour Early Release Mondays,' with the link for the survey.

 Please see the following information:

To help plan for our school’s childcare needs during the early release Mondays, please complete this form: https://forms.gle/iPnFwhFzJrJ1eTtw9 for each of your children who are enrolled at Forestville Elementary. The form covers the first two early release Mondays, scheduled for September 23, 2024, and October 28, 2024. If you have multiple children, you will need to submit multiple forms. As a school, we will confirm the after-school supervision plan for each student.

As a reminder, please complete the survey by Monday, August 19, 2024.

Thanks - Forestville

Parent Digital Consent

Student consent forms currently on ParentVUE were moved to the Parent Digital Consent System (PDC).

Families can log in to the PDC using their ParentVUE credentials to complete consent forms assigned to their child. School staff will have access to view consent status and edit consent with permission from the family.

Forms available in the PDC starting in the 2024-2025 school year include:

• School Counseling Opt-Out
• Digital Resources Consent
• SEL Screener Opt-Out
• Consent for Release of Student Records in Support of Postsecondary Applications
• Denial of Access to Military Recruiters 
• Family Life Education Opt-Out
• SOL Retest Permission
• Hazel Health
• BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Opt-Out
• SOS Screener Opt-Out
• Objection to Release of Information to Outside Organizations
• Objection to Release of Directory Information to the Public

https://www.fcps.edu/family-resources/technology/digital-resources/consent 

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Upcoming Events:

(August 14th) Tonight - Admin/Family Town Hall (virtual) *see below for link to join 🔗

August 15th - Open House *more information below

August 19th - First Day of School 🔔 (Bell Schedule 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.)

August 28th - Back to School Night 

Click here to view the 2024-2025 school year calendar. 

❓Admin/Family Q&A 

Tonight from 5:30 - 6:15pm, Mr. Washington and Ms. Carlson will be hosting a Forestville Admin/Family Q & A. During our session, we will be answering questions from families as they relate to our Forestville Family Handbook. Please read over and review the information in the handbook and come with any questions you may have pertaining to the handbook. 🔗Please use this link to join. 🔗

📑Family Handbook

Please take some time to review our Forestville Family Handbook. We wanted to provide our families with this resource as it will help assist you with pertinent information in regards to the 2024-2025 school year.  

🏫Open House Tomorrow

We are looking forward to hosting an open house for all Forestville families on TOMORROW (8/15/24) from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Come by anytime during this window to meet your teacher and drop off school supplies. 

New to Forestville Elementary? 

We will also be hosting a new family orientation on August 15th from 8:30 to 9:00 a.m. in the cafeteria.

⏰Early Release Mondays Survey

You should have received an email from Forestville via eNotify last week with a required survey about the Early Release Mondays. Dr. Reid initially communicated the plan for these days in mid-June. Please complete this survey no later than August 19 so we can plan accordingly.

The scheduled dates for Forestville are:

• September 23
• October 28
• November 25
• February 24
• March 17
• April 28
• May 19

If you have immediate questions, please email [email protected]. 

🚍Bus Information

Through your SIS ParentVue account, you can see your child’s transportation assignments and intent on the “Student Info” tab. Transportation assignments will become available on August 12, 2024, and changes may be made up to August 14, 2024.

🌟Back to School Night  Wednesday, August 28th

• Session 1- 6:00 - 6:40 p.m.
• Session 2- 6:45 - 7:05 p.m. (Specialists in Cafeteria) 
• Session 3- 7:10 - 7:50pm

Session 1 and 3 will be hosted by your child's teacher, in their classroom, and contain the same information in each session. The additional session is for families who have multiple children at Forestville.

👨🏽‍💻 Online Verification Update (OVU) 

The 2024-25 Online Verification/Update (OVU) packet is available in ParentVue.  Please log in to ParentVue to verify your student’s emergency contact information.  Instructions and detailed information are available at the following sites: SIS ParentVUE Online Verification/Update (OVU) Packet.

Parents should contact the school directly for data corrections that they are not able to update or submit a Parent Support Request ticket for technical assistance in ParentVUE.

Parent Digital Consent

Student consent forms currently on ParentVUE were moved to the Parent Digital Consent System (PDC).

Families can log in to the PDC using their ParentVUE credentials to complete consent forms assigned to their child. School staff will have access to view consent status and edit consent with permission from the family.

Forms available in the PDC starting in the 2024-2025 school year include:

• School Counseling Opt-Out
• Digital Resources Consent
• SEL Screener Opt-Out
• Consent for Release of Student Records in Support of Postsecondary Applications
• Denial of Access to Military Recruiters 
• Family Life Education Opt-Out
• SOL Retest Permission
• Hazel Health
• BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Opt-Out
• SOS Screener Opt-Out
• Objection to Release of Information to Outside Organizations
• Objection to Release of Directory Information to the Public

https://www.fcps.edu/family-resources/technology/digital-resources/consent 

1085 Utterback Store Road | Great Falls, VA 22066 | 703.404.6000 
Attendance: submit online or call 703.404.6098 | Web | Twitter

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Calendar Reminders

August 14th - Admin/Family Town Hall (virtual) *see below for link to join 🔗

August 15th - Open House *more information below

August 19th - First Day of School 🔔 (Bell Schedule 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.)

August 28th - Back to School Night 

Click here to view the 2024-2025 school year calendar. 

🏫Open House August 15th 

We are looking forward to hosting an open house for all Forestville families on August 15th from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Come by anytime during this window to meet your teacher and drop off school supplies. 

New to Forestville Elementary? 

We will also be hosting a new family orientation on August 15th from 8:30 to 9:00 a.m. in the cafeteria.

📩Class Placement Information 

Teacher assignments will be emailed through E-Notify on or before Wednesday, August 14th. 

❓Admin/Family Q&A 

Wednesday, August 14th from 5:30 - 6:15pm, Mr. Washington and Ms. Carlson will be hosting a Forestville Admin/Family Q & A. During our session, we will be answering questions from parents as they relate to our Forestville Parent Handbook. Please read over and review the information in the handbook and come with any questions you may have pertaining to the handbook. 🔗Please use this link to join. 🔗

📑Family Handbook

Please take some time to review our Forestville Family Handbook. We wanted to provide our families with this resource as it will help assist you with pertinent information in regards to the 2024-2025 school year.  

🚍Bus Information

Through your SIS ParentVue account, you can see your child’s transportation assignments and intent on the “Student Info” tab. Transportation assignments will become available on August 12, 2024, and changes may be made up to August 14, 2024.

🏥 School Clinic Update

Our clinic will be open to drop off medications on Thursday, August 15th from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. *Open House is 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. 

Parents can submit updates/changes to Emergency Care and Health Information forms if needed. Parents can also use SIS ParentVUE to verify and update their student’s emergency contacts, phone numbers, and health conditions. 

📓School Supply Lists 

Please click on the links below to see the supply lists for the 2024 - 2025. 

Kindergarten

First Grade

Second Grade

Third Grade

Fourth Grade 

Fifth Grade 

Sixth Grade

🌟Back to School Night  Wednesday, August 28th

• Session 1- 6:00 - 6:40 p.m.
• Session 2- 6:45 - 7:05 p.m. (Specialists in Cafeteria) 
• Session 3- 7:10 - 7:50pm

Session 1 and 3 will be hosted by your child's teacher, in their classroom, and contain the same information in each session. The additional session is for families who have multiple children at Forestville.

☕Principal's Coffees

Save the date for Mr. Washington's principal coffee sessions. They will be from 9:30 - 10:15 in the cafeteria on the following dates: 

September 13th 

December 13th 

March 21st 

May 23rd 

👨🏽‍💻 Online Verification Update (OVU) 

The 2024-25 Online Verification/Update (OVU) packet is available in ParentVue.  Please log in to ParentVue to verify your student’s emergency contact information.  Instructions and detailed information are available at the following sites: SIS ParentVUE Online Verification/Update (OVU) Packet.

Parents should contact the school directly for data corrections that they are not able to update or submit a Parent Support Request ticket for technical assistance in ParentVUE.

Parent Digital Consent

Student consent forms currently on ParentVUE were moved to the Parent Digital Consent System (PDC).

Families can log in to the PDC using their ParentVUE credentials to complete consent forms assigned to their child. School staff will have access to view consent status and edit consent with permission from the family.

Forms available in the PDC starting in the 2024-2025 school year include:

• School Counseling Opt-Out
• Digital Resources Consent
• SEL Screener Opt-Out
• Consent for Release of Student Records in Support of Postsecondary Applications
• Denial of Access to Military Recruiters 
• Family Life Education Opt-Out
• SOL Retest Permission
• Hazel Health
• BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Opt-Out
• SOS Screener Opt-Out
• Objection to Release of Information to Outside Organizations
• Objection to Release of Directory Information to the Public

https://www.fcps.edu/family-resources/technology/digital-resources/consent 

🔖 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.

New Feature in ParentVUE: Report Full-Day Absences 

Starting on the first day of school, Monday, August 19, parents/caregivers can submit full-day absences through FCPS’ SIS ParentVUE platform. This will make reporting and tracking absences easier for our school.

Parents/caregivers may report absences by using ParentVUE or by contacting the front office. Please find important details below:

• How to Use ParentVUE: Log in to your ParentVUE account and select “Report Absence.” 
• More Ways to Report: Use our attendance phone line and/or email for absences longer than two days, late arrivals, and early dismissals.
• Where to Get Help: Visit FCPS’ Attendance Reporting webpage for step-by-step instructions. 

If you need to set up a ParentVUE account or have questions, please contact our front office at [phone and/or email]. They will provide you with an “activation key” and instructions to create a ParentVUE account. We are excited to see your student on August 19!

🥗Food and Nutrition Services

Food and Nutrition Services will email student PINs via e-notify before the first day of school. Information about meal prices, setting up lunch accounts and payment options (MySchoolBucks, cash or check) for cafeteria meals can be found here.  Lunch Menus are also available here. 

 

🍜Free and Reduced Price Meal Applications

According to the Centers for Disease Control, eating breakfast at school is associated with better attendance rates, fewer missed school days, and better test scores. Families that are earning less than 185% of the poverty level can receive breakfast and lunch for their students at no cost.

Families must complete the Free and Reduced Price Meal application before the start of each school year. Approved applications may also qualify students for additional benefits. Look for the application in August. View criteria and up-to-date information on the Free and Reduced-Price Meals webpage. Families should reach out to their schools with questions or for assistance.

🤕 Voluntary Student Insurance 

Fairfax County Public Schools does not provide medical insurance for accidents that occur at school. Parents may want to consider if purchasing voluntary student insurance is right for their family.

K & K Insurance Group has student accident insurance coverage available for purchase by parents. If you do not have other insurance, this plan may be a resource to consider. Additionally, even if you have other coverage, this plan can help fill expensive gaps caused by deductibles and co-pays. Coverage may be purchased at any time during the school year. Visit the FCPS public webpage for more information. 

📰 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. 

1085 Utterback Store Road | Great Falls, VA 22066 | 703.404.6000 
Attendance: submit online or call 703.404.6098 | Web | Twitter

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Upcoming Dates 

August 14th - Admin/Family Town Hall (Virtual) *more information below 

August 15th - Open House *more information below

August 19th - First Day of School

August 28th - Back to School Night starting at 6:00 p.m. *more information coming next week 

Click here to view the 2024-2025 school year calendar. 

🏫Open House August 15th 

We are looking forward to hosting an open house for all Forestville families on August 15th from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Come by anytime during this window to meet your teacher and drop off school supplies. 

New to Forestville Elementary? 

We will also be hosting a new family orientation on August 15th from 8:30 to 9:00 a.m. in the cafeteria.

📩Class Placement Information 

Teacher assignments will be emailed through E-Notify on or before Wednesday, August 14th. 

❓Admin/Family Q&A 

Wednesday, August 14th from 5:30 - 6:15pm, Mr. Washington and Ms. Carlson will be hosting a Forestville Admin/Family Q & A. During our session, we will be answering questions from parents as they relate to our Forestville Parent Handbook. Please read over and review the information in the handbook and come with any questions you may have pertaining to the handbook. *a link will be set out early next week

📑Family Handbook

Please take some time to review our Forestville Family Handbook. We wanted to provide our families with this resource as it will help assist you with pertinent information in regards to the 2024-2025 school year.  

Student Consent Forms

Starting August 1st, Student consent forms currently available on ParentVue will be moved to the Parent Digital Consent System (PDC). Families can log into the PDC using their ParentVue credentials to complete consent forms assigned to their child.  If you have a new ParentVue account, you must wait 24 hours after it is created to use the PDC.

Forms available include:

School Counseling Opt-out Digital Resources Consent  SEL Screener Opt-Out Family Life Education Opt-out SOL Retest Permission Objection to Release of Directory Information to the Public Objection to Release of Information to Outside Organizations

📓School Supply Lists 

Please click on the links below to see the supply lists for the 2024 - 2025. 

Kindergarten

First Grade

Second Grade

Third Grade

Fourth Grade 

Fifth Grade 

Sixth Grade

Elementary Early Release Mondays Information 

To meet the requirements of the Virginia Literacy Act passed by the General Assembly, all FCPS elementary schools will have seven 3 hour early release Mondays. This time will be utilized for teachers to complete required professional development for the new Virginia Literacy Act, as well as plan instruction using the new reading and math state standards. Additional information can be found on the FCPS  Early Release Mondays webpage.

We wanted to provide a reminder, following up from the communication that was sent out by Forestville Elementary and from FCPS in June. Forestville Elementary will dismiss at 1:00 pm on the dates below.  These early dismissal Mondays provide opportunities for you to schedule medical appointments without having students miss school.

• September 23
• October 28
• November 25
• February 24
• March 17
• April 28
• May 19

If you have immediate questions, please email [email protected]. 

✅Sign Up for SIS ParentVUE

Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child. 

Once you have activated a 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 ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices. 

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

📧Paperless Opt-Outs Available!

As a part of our ongoing efforts to streamline paper processes, parents can now select a number of opt-out’s electronically via ParentVUE.  Once you have signed into your ParentVUE account, simply select the “Student Info” tab and click on “Edit Information.” You will find opt-out’s listed there.  Parents that do not yet have a ParentVUE account will still be able to use paper forms for notification. If you need to set up your ParentVUE account, you can create one online via the FCPS ParentVUE Registration page.

🍕Food and Nutrition Services Information

Learn more about the criteria and process to apply for free or reduced-priced breakfast and lunch.

Learn more about breakfast/lunch  menus, prices and payment options.

1085 Utterback Store Road | Great Falls, VA 22066 | 703.404.6000 
Attendance: submit online or call 703.404.6098 | Web | Twitter

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

Important Dates

June 18 - August 5: Summer Office Hours 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. 

July 27th and August 6th - Kindergarten Playdates 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. 

In order to help our newest Cardinals get acclimated to our school and new friends, our PTA will be hosting two kindergarten playdates. Please see the dates above. Both playdates will take place on the Forestville playground.  

August 15 - Open House 

New Families Open House - we will host an Open House info session and    Q&A specifically for our new to Forestville families in our Cafeteria from 8:30-9:00am

Schoolwide Open House - 9:00-11:00am

August 19: First Day of School

2024-25 FCPS School Calendar

Throwing Shade 😎

Thank you to our amazing PTA and families for your support of our '23-'24 Boosterthon Fun Run! Because of your donations we were able to install two sunshades on the playground... after this scorching summer, some shade will be nice for our students and staff!  

🏫Rising Kindergarten Registration

If you have a rising Kindergarten student, please fill out this new student intake form to begin the registration process. If you have a neighbor or friend with a child who will be turning five on or before September 30th, please pass along this information!

If you have any questions about the registration process, please email Ms. Kirk ([email protected]).

Kindergarten Playdates

Join us for a fun and friendly playground meet-up for all families with children starting kindergarten this fall! This is a wonderful opportunity for your little ones to make new friends and for parents to connect with each other before the school year begins.

Date: July 27 & August 6 Time: 9:30-11:30am Location: Forestville Playground

Members of the PTA will be there to answer any questions you might have and to hand out refreshing popsicles. We look forward to seeing you there!

📓 School Supply Lists 

Please click on the links below to see the supply lists for the 2024-2025 school year. 

Kindergarten

First Grade

Second Grade

Third Grade

Fourth Grade 

Fifth Grade 

Sixth Grade

🍴Cafeteria Hostess Needed

Dining Room Assistant : $13.11 per Hour 

Hours: Monday - Friday 10:30 - 2:00 p.m. 

Description: Assists students during lunch time. Supervises student clean-up, keeps order, and dismisses students to their teachers.

Qualifications: Friendly, energetic, and assertive in maintaining expectations of cafeteria behavior, and loves working with children.

Please email Ms. Carlson if interested. 

PTA Webmaster Needed

For the latest PTA updates this summer, be sure to visit our fantastic website, beautifully designed by our dedicated parent volunteer, Ted Gudmundsen.

We are currently seeking a new webmaster for the upcoming school year. If you have a few hours each week to help keep the Forestville community informed about PTA activities, we would greatly appreciate your assistance.

To get involved, please reach out to us at [email protected] and [email protected].

Fall Carnival Committee

 

  Dunk Tank, Cotton Candy and Games, Oh My!

Many thanks to our Fall Carnival Chairs, Denise Gramsky, Janina Inselman and Jeanette Rachman, for volunteering to plan one of our biggest events of the year.  There is no better way to kick off the school year than dunking Mr. Washington! 

If you would like to help out and join our committee, please email [email protected].  There are so many ways you can help out so please consider joining our fun team :)

1085 Utterback Store Road | Great Falls, VA 22066 | 703.404.6000 
Attendance: submit online or call 703.404.6098 | Web | Twitter