November 2021 Newsletter - FLOTUS visit for #VaxUPFCPS, School Bond success, TJ Admissions open, STEM, Mental Health resources & more!!

NOV

Dear Sully District Families,

It is November and we have started our second quarter together!

As we enter into Thanksgiving season, I am grateful for our shared partnership with parents, caregivers and our community in providing our students with safe places to learn that are reflective of the values of our diverse community.

WH

It was my honor and privilege to welcome our First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy to Franklin Sherman Elementary School to kick off the national rollout of COVID-19 vaccination for children ages 5-11! Franklin Sherman Elementary School made history on April 26, 1954, when a group of FCPS parents made the decision to have their children be part of the Polio Pioneer campaign that kicked off nationwide polio vaccine field trials. This is a momentous step forward in ensuring we beat COVID & keep our children safe and IN school. Thank you to our partners American Academy of Pediatrics, Fairfax County Health Department and Inova Health for assisting Fairfax County & FCPS become leaders in this endeavor.  I am particularly thankful and relieved that my two youngest children were able to get their first COVID-19 shot over the weekend.

In Sully District, our students have been busy academically, on our stages and on our athletic fields. Please take a moment to celebrate everything your student has accomplished this historic first quarter. I enjoyed visiting schools, speaking at PTA meetings, homecomings, athletic events and talking with Principals about the issues that matter to them and the successes and challenges of this school year so far. 

At our October work session and regular meetings, the School Board discussed vaccinations and streamlining our COVID-19 protocols and procedures. I voted for a much-needed substitute pay increase to help us continue to address the shortage of staff impacting school districts nationwide. I was also excited to hear from staff about the Equitable Access to Literacy (EAL) plan with remarks from Dr Emily Solari about the science of reading. As an educator myself, this is a topic that is close to my heart and I look forward to seeing this plan unfold.

I also want you to know that I fully empathize with parents and students anxiety over the academic ramifications from missing in-person instruction time due to the current 14-day length of the quarantine period for close contacts. Although this is a Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) process, I am strongly advocating for FCPS to follow CDC and VDH options for shorter quarantine periods with testing when the safest standard is not easily applied. I believe this is in the best interest of our students. 

Inside this month’s newsletter:

  • COVID-19 Vaccine for 5-11 years is here!
  • TJHSST Applications Open
  • STEM Resources and Opportunities
  • Superintendent Search Firm Selected 
  • Open Positions on Citizen and Curriculum Advisory Committees
  • Get2Green News and Updates
  • Parent & Mental Health Resources

I want to also express my sincere appreciation to our parents and community members for showing your strong support for the 2021 School Bond Referendum. Your collective efforts were critical to achieving success at the ballot. These bond funds will directly impact the building and renovation of schools in the Sully District and will go towards site acquisition of the future Western High School that is critical to alleviating overcrowding issues in our district and renovations at Brookfield and Lees Corner Elementary schools

Finally, please continue to share your concerns and experiences with me. I look forward to engaging with you at our next Virtual Town Hall on November 30th.

I am so proud of our students, teachers and staff and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish as we start our second quarter! 

In partnership, 

Stella Pekarsky


School Visit to Westfield High School - Listening to Student Voices!

WHS

I had a wonderful visit to Westfield High School with my colleague Rachna Sizemore Heizer, Fairfax County School Board Member at Large! Thank you Principal DiBari for giving us the opportunity to hear directly from students about what they feel is going well and what the challenges have been going from virtual to in-person instruction this school year. I am always impressed with how amazingly articulate our students are, expressing their thoughts and feelings and asking relevant questions.So proud of them! I also saw the humongous new refrigerator that will hold fresh food for the food pantry to provide snacks for students in need, and heard Principal DiBari explain his many innovative ideas for creating community space for students to work and be together as well as his work with a senior student to develop their solar powered outdoor classroom for hands on learning.  #NaturalLeaders #pandemicresilience.

I also want to offer a reminder that Fairfax County Public Schools is hiring in numerous positions. If you are interested or know someone who may be interested in teaching, or in serving as a Substitute teacher, Bus driver, Instructional Assistant - ESInstructional Assistant – MS/HS, or Substitute Instructional Assistant, please share the links in this newsletter. 


Children Ages 5-11 Now Eligible to VaxUP!

VAxup

This week marked a pivotal moment in the COVID-19 pandemic. Children ages 5-11 are now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. FCPS is collaborating with the Fairfax County Health Department, Inova, and the Virginia Chapter of the American Association of Pediatricians to offer community-wide access to vaccines as soon as possible. Check with your local pharmacy or pediatrician for appointment availability. Up-to-date information about vaccination opportunities will be available on our website

In the meantime, you may have questions about the vaccine. We talked with local pediatricians to answer some of the most common questions. First, we asked how the vaccine works and about its safety. Hear what they have to say in this short video.


School Board Selects Superintendent Search Firm

The Fairfax County School Board has contracted human resources recruitment firm GR Recruiting to conduct a nationwide search for the next Superintendent of Schools.

In July, Superintendent Scott Brabrand announced that the 2021-22 school year would be his last at FCPS. Dr. Brabrand has served the system for nearly 30 years, starting as an intern and ending as superintendent. “My goal in this school division has always been to meet the needs of every child, by name and by need,” Dr. Brabrand said, “I pledge to continue to serve through June 30, 2022, with the same love and passion for FCPS that I had when I started.”


Transforming Learning for Every Child—Equitable Access to Literacy

Literacy

FCPS’ Instructional Services Department unveiled their vision to create an Equitable Access to Literacy Plan aimed at providing every student with the education and support they need to develop the reading and writing skills necessary for school and life. 

Data presented by FCPS and literacy experts show the urgent need for a new approach to literacy education. Literacy has a strong impact on overall academic success, economic well-being, health outcomes, social participation, and civic engagement. 

Read more or watch the School Board work session presentation to find out why literacy education is so important, what FCPS is doing now, and what’s to come.


Increase of Substitute Hourly Rate

As we all know the substitute teacher shortage is a national problem. It is not unique to Fairfax County. 

In order to become more competitive with surrounding jurisdictions, the School Board unanimously approved, during their Regular School Board Meeting on Thursday, October 21, the superintendent’s recommendation to increase the pay of substitute teachers to help attract new people to this role. The pay was adjusted according to the scale shown below: 

subpay

The Board also voted to direct the superintendent to provide an analysis of the Instructional Assistant (IA), Public Health Training Assistant (PHTA), and Public Health Attendant (PHA) substitute pay scales.

Full details of the vote.


Sully District Happenings

First Electric School Bus Fleet Rolled Out to Support FCPS Carbon Neutral Goal

Electric Bus

Go for Green! Fairfax County Public Schools officially launched its first fleet of electric school buses in October as part of a commitment to providing carbon neutral student transportation by 2035.

I was thrilled to speak at this event! Our community and our students deserve to have schools and an environment that enhance their health and wellness. The School Board is committed to providing FCPS with energy and resource stewardship to meet the urgent challenges of climate change. I appreciate the advocacy and support of groups like Mothers Out Front Fairfax County, Virginia Clean Cities and Clean Cities Coalition as well as the grants and partnerships leading us to a more sustainable environment for the future!

Virtual Town Hall Rescheduled Date - Get your questions in!

VT

Due to the virtual Calendar Community Meeting that has been scheduled for Monday, November 8th, my joint Town Hall with At-large member Rachna Sizemore-Heizer is rescheduled to Tuesday, November 30 from 7pm-8pm. You will be able to access the Town Hall through this link.  Please submit your questions in advance here. I hope you can attend!


COVID-19 Screening Testing for Student-Athletes Starts November 15

test

COVID-19 screening testing for students, including student-athletes, will now begin November 15. The adjustment will allow FCPS and its contractors time to ensure all components, including the portals are up and running and staff are fully trained.

We also know many student-athletes are currently in the middle of their two-dose cycle and additional time for testing to begin will allow those students to complete their vaccinations. Students are eligible to try out for their sport if they have received one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. 

In order to streamline the process for families who have to register multiple students, we’ve moved the start date for all student screening testing. We will share information about how to pre-register and provide consent for COVID-19 testing through a secure online portal shortly.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends school-based testing to limit the spread of COVID-19 and to keep schools open safely. FCPS will begin screening testing for staff on November 1 as originally scheduled. 

For more information, visit our COVID-19 Screening Testing webpage.


Share Your Feedback on the FCPS 2022-23 School Year Calendar

calendar

Families and staff received an email yesterday from fcpssurvey@fcps.edu with a link to the FCPS Calendar Survey. The survey will also be available in other languages.

If you did not see the survey in your in-box, check your spam or junk folders.

We encourage you to complete the survey at your earliest convenience. Employees and students in grades 7-12 will be invited to take a similar survey as well. The results will be used to inform and support FCPS staff as well as the Fairfax County School Board as they work to adopt the 2022-23 calendar. All responses are confidential. If you have any questions about the survey, please email FCPSsurvey@fcps.edu. This year, FCPS is using a different process to develop the calendar. Learn about the criteria being used in the development of the 2022-23 calendar.


Applications for TJHSST Now Open; Deadline to Apply Is November 19

TJHSST

Middle school students who have an aptitude and passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are encouraged to apply for admission to the Class of 2026 at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST). 

The application is now available on the TJHSST Admissions Office webpage. Applications must be started by 4 p.m. Wednesday, November 17, with a deadline to submit the application by Friday, November 19, at 4 p.m.


STEM Opportunities

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CS In your Neighborhood Competition

CodeVA’s state-wide CS In Your Neighborhood competition invites students from Kindergarten through 12th grade to submit creative “Data Selfies” representing their data footprint including any form of shareable media including: visual art, music, video, or code/web content. Learn more and submit selfies here: https://codeva.info/CSEdWeek2021

Shark Tank Technology Challenge Open to All High School Students

Calling all high school students! The Fairfax Area 50+ Technology Committee has announced this year’s Shark Tank Technology Challenge with a focus on new or improved existing technology that will have a positive impact in the lives of older adults, adults with disabilities, wounded warriors, or caregivers. Students are encouraged to consider projects that offer assistance in the following areas:

  • Active free time activities
  • Participation in the arts
  • Caregiving

Students can submit an innovative or creative project as an individual or a team. The deadline to submit the initial proposal is Dec. 6. Final proposals are due February 22, 2022. The Shark Tank event will be held in April 2022. The winning projects will receive a cash prize. More details are available by visiting Fairfax Area Student “Shark Tank” Technology Challenge.


Get2Green News & Updates

Get2green

FCPS Get2Green is the environmental stewardship program for Fairfax County Public Schools. The website is an amazing resource to engage in environmental stewardship projects at your school, incorporate sustainability in the classroom, find your school's energy and recycling data, and learn more about green initiatives in FCPS.

NWF Schoolyard Habitat Webinar Series

The National Wildlife Federation is offering a new 4-part webinar series based on their Schoolyard Habitats Planning Guide. The second webinar is November 10 at 6:30pm ET and will feature teachers sharing best outdoor learning practices and describing how they adapt curriculum for the outdoors. Participants will have an opportunity to ask questions and engage with panelists. Register for the second Schoolyard Habitat webinar.

November Action Days

When students take action in the community, their service has lasting impacts socially and emotionally. Transformative experiences can ensue when meaningful action opportunities are embedded into the learning process.

Each month, find opportunities to assist in organizing student learning experiences and community events related to specific environmental topics. In addition, discover how each pathway connects to one or more of the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Learn more about the #SpottingNatureChallenge.

America Recycles Day is November 15

This campaign focuses on responsible consumption, awareness around proper recycling methods, and encouraging friends and family to take the #BeRecycled pledge. Test your knowledge of the materials you purchase and use each day with a quiz! Learn how you can get involved on America Recycles Day and take the plastic pollution quiz as we all continue working towards a zero-waste goal.

Need a refresher on recycling in FCPS? Check out Get2Green's recycling info page.

Envirothon Training

Help your 9th-12th grade students develop Portrait of a Graduate skills and provide an opportunity for them to earn their Science and Environment diploma seal! Envirothon is a great opportunity for students to immerse themselves in meaningful learning, all while working collaboratively to solve real-world environmental problems. Learn more about Envirothon.

Mark your calendars for the Fall Envirothon training in-person at Graves Mountain Lodge on Saturday, November 20, 2021.

  • Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District (NVSWCD) will pay for student and teacher registration and lunch is provided. NVSWCD may also be able to assist with obtaining and funding group transportation.
  • Training includes hands-on sessions with topic experts in soils, wildlife, aquatics, and forestry, plus an awesome special topic panel from industry leaders talking about Waste to Resources.

Contact Ashley Palmer, Conservation Education Specialist with NVSWCD for more information. Register by November 15 via email to Stephanie DiNicola and cc Ashley.Palmer@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Follow Get2Green on Twitter

Want more recognition for your Get2Green efforts? Be sure to follow them on Twitter and tag them @fcpsGet2Green. 


Serve Your Community by Joining an FCPS Committee!

As a Fairfax County School Board member, I have the opportunity to appoint one Sully District resident to represent our community on Citizen Advisory committees as well as committees that work with our Instructional Services team to provide input on curriculum. Four committees have openings that I must fill. You must be a Sully District constituent to apply!

  • Human Resources Advisory Committee (HRAC)The purpose of the HRAC is to advise the Fairfax County School Board (FCSB) on achieving and maintaining a premier workforce within a caring culture. HRAC will make recommendations to improve practices used by FCPS leadership personnel at school and district levels to promote a rewarding workplace environment. Meets monthly. One year term.
  • K-8 Science Basal Resources Committee: Reviews resources to be used in K-8 science curriculum; ensures that resources meet the educational needs of a variety of learners while also aligning with the newly-adopted Virginia Standards of Learning and the FCPS Learning Model. Meets once a week from November to December.

These committees are an essential part of our work to ensure that a variety of community stakeholders can contribute to the vibrancy of our curriculum. Please email my staff at skhurana@fcps.edu to apply to join one of these committees.


Mental Health Resources for Students and Parents

This month's theme: New Ways November
Red line

This month, we're encouraging you to try something new!  Learning something new or getting involved in an activity that really absorbs and interests us is great for our wellbeing. Keeping our brains active is not only good for us physically but it can help you feel you are flourishing as you see yourself make progress with a new skill, or just make you smile as you make a mess and decide to start again. :)  Being playful and trying new things is important, as is remembering that it's OK not to get it right first time - change "I can't do it", into "I can't do it...yet!" This month's calendar is full of ideas to help you decide what to try next.

Red line

Go to Action for Happiness for ideas to help you take action for a happier and kinder world.

nov 2021

Healthy Minds Podcast

Hear about how we are all handling uncertainty; get new ideas to help your child, friends and families feel better; and learn to help yourself feel stronger and more energized

Student Wellness: Tips and Strategies

Feeling super stressed? Worried about a friend's mental health—or your own? Get tips to help manage your emotions and see what to do if you are in crisis. 

Mental Health and Resiliency

Helping students to manage stress, make better choices, and develop healthy habits.

FCPS Parent Resource Center

Staff is available by phone 703-204-3941 or email prc@fcps.edu to help! Offers free workshops, consultations, a lending library, and more to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs and disabilities.


Tips for Managing Test Anxiety

test

Test anxiety is a type of performance anxiety. This is a feeling we might have in a situation where performance really counts or the pressure is on to do well. Test anxiety involves severe distress before, during, and/or after the exam which limits a student’s ability to do their best work. Students may "blank" or "freeze" during tests. The anxiety can be so severe that students feel as though they may pass out or throw up. Test anxiety is often caused from a fear of failure, poor test history, or lack of test preparation.

Fortunately, test anxiety can be managed. Students who have test anxiety are eager to perform well, but need a little assistance. Parents and educators can work with students when they sense a problem with test anxiety, easing the strain and helping students cope with test time and reach success. Try these strategies from the Healthy Minds blog to relieve the stress.


Multilingual Parent Podcast: Fairfax Health Department Specialist Talks About COVID-19 Safety Protocols

podcast

Listen and subscribe to a FCPS multilingual family podcast to hear timely, important information related to school news. The podcasts are produced in conjunction with the Office for English as a Second Language (ESOL) Services and the Office of Professional Learning and Family Engagement.

In this week’s episode, meet Kirsten Buchner, a community health specialist at the Fairfax County Health Department. Buchner answers questions about wearing masks for COVID-19 safety protocols and COVID-19 vaccinations. For more information, the Fairfax Health Department COVID-19 phone line is 703-324-7404.

At the end of the podcast, the hosts offer families information on the FCPS Parent Resource Center’s newest resource, PRC Packs, which are pre-packaged tote bags with books for adults and children on important topics such as supporting children and teens with attention deficit disorder, anxiety, and motivation.

Listen and subscribe:


November Webinars at the Parent Resource Center

PRC

Tips to Improve Your Parenting Long Game: A Webinar for Families

Especially as the demands on parents are higher than ever during COVID, many of us can have become very reactive in our approach with our children -- addressing issues as they happen, wondering how to break out of negative cycles.

In this webinar, you'll learn proactive strategies that lead to more positive behavior outcomes AND will help you enjoy your children again.

Presented by Rachel Bailey, M.A., CPDPE., Parenting Specialist. Friday November 19, 2021 10 - 11:30 a.m. Register for Tips to Improve Your Parenting Long Game: A Webinar for Families


Upcoming School Board Meetings

new school board pic
  • November 11, 2021 - Regular Meeting - 7 pm
  • November 22, 2021 - Regular Meeting - 7 pm 

Visit the citizen participation webpage to sign up to speak at a regular meeting or public hearing. Visit BoardDocs for more meeting logistics, agendas and handouts.

The meetings will be broadcast live on Channel 99 (Verizon channel 11) and on the FCPS website. The meeting will be recorded for future viewing and posted to the FCPS School Board YouTube page.


Contacting Me

At this time, with an overflowing inbox, I am prioritizing responses to Sully District constituents. If you are unsure of your county magisterial district, you can look that information up here.

To contact me, it is most helpful if you can please use the official School Board contact form. This form prioritizes emails to me from constituents, and helps me track communication so I can be sure you receive a response.

Use this link to sign up for our Newsletters.


The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© 2021 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia