Cardinal's Message

Cardinal's Message

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Dear Cunningham Park Families and Friends,

Published reports share lots of different information about how children learn to read and write. Sometimes, those reports seem to argue with each other, or suggest one philosophy is at odds with another. Literacy is incredibly important, and articles and blogs get confusing. So let us take a minute to share how literacy development looks at Cunningham Park.

The truth is, while some news articles suggest one way is the answer to all needs, or another strategy boosts all test scores, there is no one single way - no matter how much research some programs present - that effectively cultivates strong literacy in students who have varying learning strengths, interests, and needs. You’ve heard the old saying about a “silver bullet” that takes care of everything in one shot? This does not exist in literacy learning. Teaching students to read and write is an art form in which teams of teachers come together to look at each child and determine how they will best learn.

You see, we are not just out to increase test scores. Our goal is to inspire a life-long love of reading and writing in our students. We aim to instill a higher level of learning in which children find or create meaning in stories, poetry, primary sources, and all text. A level of learning in which students are active participants in constructing their knowledge and skills so they will apply what they learn to each strive for his and her own potential.

Our literacy program, in concert with Fairfax County Public Schools, is “Balanced Literacy.” And Balanced Literacy is exactly what it sounds like: all components of reading and writing instruction are addressed fully in ways that are meaningful and that cultivate a joy and purpose for reading and writing. The method incorporates phonics instruction seamlessly with comprehension, so the mechanics of reading and writing are taught together to support the true reasons for reading and writing - finding, understanding, or creating meaning.

Right now, your child’s teachers are assessing all students so she or he can design differentiated reading groups that capitalize on your child’s strengths and address areas for growth.

How can you support your child at home? Read, read, read! Read for pleasure, join book clubs, visit the library, let your child reread favorite books, and celebrate the fun of literacy together!

Here’s to a year full of inspiration and exploration through books!

Sincerely,

Katie Le, Principal and Jon Kemmerer, Assistant Principal


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Join Us THIS EVENING for Our Annual PTA Back To School Picnic!

When? This evening, 9/6/19

Time?  5:00-7:00pm

Where?  Near the School Playground

Free pizza and free custard (donated by Kustard & Co.) will be provided (while supplies last).  Children must be in the care of an adult.  Please bring your own non-alcoholic beverages for you family.


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Playing games is an awesome way to make learning stick!


Looking for a Family Field Trip Idea?

Take the Fairfax Connector Bus

and explore Vienna!

Bus 467 drives right up Park Street.

Check out Patrick Henry Library, stop off at the Vienna Community Center, do a little shopping, explore!

PS, Middle school and high school students can ride the bus for free!  Students should stop by their school office for a bus pass.


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Cunningham Park is Online!

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for real time photos and updates!


Dates to Remember

  • Friday, September 6 - PTA Back to School Annual Picnic, after school
  • Tuesday, September 10 - PTA Meeting, 7:00pm in the CPES library
  • Friday, September 13 - PTA Coffee, just after arrival
  • Monday, October 14 - Columbus Day Student Holiday: NO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS
  • Friday, October 18 - Hallowingo, 6:00-8:00pm
  • Thursday, October 31 - Storybook Character Parade for students in primary grades, 8:50am

Full FCPS 2019-2020 Calendar