Safety Team members participated in training at Frost MS.
FCPS has implemented new Safety Teams to help monitor each school's adherence to five mitigation strategies for COVID-19. These teams, which consist of FCPS staff members and retirees, will conduct random on-site spot checks, deliver education and resources, and report data back to administrators. The five mitigation strategies are set forth in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Indicators for Dynamic School Decision-Making guide and include:
- Proper use of masks or face coverings.
- Social distancing.
- Hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.
- Cleaning and disinfection.
- Contact tracing, in collaboration with the health department.
Read the news release.
Even though COVID-19 cases are still climbing, cold weather and holiday celebrations will bring more people indoors for family gatherings and events. That’s why we must fight “intervention fatigue” and keep doing what has been proven to work–mask-wearing, social distancing, and staying home whenever possible–to keep COVID-19 cases from overwhelming our healthcare systems. See five things to know about COVID-19.
At the Fairfax County School Board's work session scheduled for Thursday, December 10, at 6 p.m., Dr. Brabrand will provide an update on his plans for future groups of students and staff to return to in-person instruction. Watch the meeting on FCPS' website or on FCPS Cable TV Channel 99 (Verizon Channel 11).
Our teachers have created some very unique and engaging workspaces at home and in their classrooms for virtual learning. Nellie Williams, a teacher at Haycock ES, truly went out on a limb when she and her husband upgraded their backyard treehouse to double as her classroom. Take a closer look at Nellie's treehouse.
We are excited to acknowledge Pamela Simpkins, Silverbrook ES' new principal! Please join us in congratulating her. Read the news release.
FCPS is hiring classroom monitors to provide in-person classroom assistance for students when some staff members continue to work virtually. Please share the job description with family members and friends who may be interested, and encourage them to apply today.
#OurFCPS Faces: Hoang Nguyen
Kilmer Center Principal Hoang Nguyen came to the U.S. from Vietnam with his family when he was seven years old. As a student, he received English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) services, free and reduced meals, and many other community provided supports for families in need.
Guided by the principle, “A man is not a man unless he tries to make this world a better place,” Hoang is grateful. He says, “Being an immigrant, my ‘why’ is the community I grew up in provided me and my family with love and support, and we were able to grow and thrive. I am forever grateful for the freedom and opportunity America has provided for me, and I will dedicate my life to serving others who are less fortunate.”
Our students are benefitting from his service mindset. Hoang began working for FCPS 12 years ago as a special education teacher at Armstrong ES. He was also a crisis resource teacher at Marshall Road ES before joining Kilmer Center as an assistant principal in 2016.
Hoang sees his job as developing and implementing systems and structures that promote student achievement, sustaining a safe and inclusive working environment with an emphasis on equity and cultural responsiveness, and providing families with the information and resources they need to thrive in their communities.
Building and sustaining positive and caring relationships with students, families, and staff is what helps Hoang to thrive. He says, “Virtual learning has added in me an increased sense of amazement and awe for the work and courage that my staff, students, and families have displayed day in and day out. They prove that they can do hard things, have a growth mindset, and tackle challenges with gumption and fervor in the face of a worldwide pandemic. They inspire me every single day, and it is a privilege to be able to work and learn alongside them.”
Fabio Zuluaga, Region 2 assistant superintendent, adds, “Principal Nguyen and his spirit of inclusion and innovation continue to make an impact at Kilmer Center. Our visits to the school during the pandemic reflect the joy from the students, and the love and passion from his faculty and staff. His leadership permeates the entire building where equity is always present in his decision making process. We are thrilled and forever grateful to have him leading Kilmer Center."
When Hoang isn't working, he enjoys watching the Pittsburgh Steelers, working out, and spending time with his wife and children. He also likes Penn State football, fishing, hunting, motorcycle riding, and camping.
Thank you for your positivity and leadership, Hoang!
De-Stress in December
There is still time to join the December mindfulness series. Sessions will focus on the basics of mindfulness and meditation, and how this practice can help you feel calmer, focused, and less caught up in a constant stream of thinking. The series will also explore ways to be more at peace with what comes up in daily life through the practice of acceptance, self-kindness, and gratitude. Employees who participate in at least two sessions will be entered in a raffle to win a wellness prize! View the course description (VPN required). Register today. Please email HRWellness@fcps.edu with questions.
Live fitness classes continue to be held virtually on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Join the fun! There are many choices, including winter-themed classes that will take place during winter break. Registration is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. View class descriptions (VPN required). Register today. Class recordings will be posted on the Employee Wellness webpage (VPN required).
The safest way to celebrate the holidays this year is with people in your household. Fairfax County Emergency Information recommends making the holidays more leisurely this year: Stay home, stay cozy, and keep it small and simple. All of us have to do our part! Learn more.
Staff Staples
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Please email EmployeeNews@fcps.edu with potential submissions or questions. Submissions are due by 4:30 p.m. on Thursdays. Thank you!
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