November 16, 2021 | Issue 13
Important Upcoming Dates
November 24th-26th (Wednesday - Friday) - Thanksgiving Holidays
Monday, December 20th - Friday, December 31st - Winter Break
Mantua’s book fair, by Bookworm Central, is here!
Our book fair will be open now through noon, Friday, November 19th.
Here are some details:
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TUESDAY November 16
- Student shopping from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM with teacher permission
- Evening hours - 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
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WEDNESDAY November 17
- Student shopping from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM with teacher permission
- Evening hours - 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
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THURSDAY November 18
- 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Parents ONLY shopping (no students)
- 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM Student shopping with teacher permission
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FRIDAY November 19
- 9:00 AM- 12:00 PM Student shopping with teacher permission (LAST DAY)
Shop Online: https://www.bookwormcentral.com/school-online-store.php?id=00324020-DDCE-4FF5-9541-F78F3A71E167&pro_id=160&school_code=mantua
Questions or comments? Email Jenn Ros programs@mantuapta.org.
It's Pie Time!
Last year's Pie Event was such a success. Let's do it again! Please sign up for a pie (or two) to gift to our wonderful teachers and staff for Thanksgiving.
For more information and to sign up go here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0548a8ac29a5fb6-20211
Parent referrals for the Level IV (full-time) Advanced Academics Program (AAP)
Parent referrals for the Level IV (full-time) Advanced Academics Program (AAP) are due no later than December 15. This is a hard and fast deadline which may not be extended. For more information about the levels of AAP services offered in FCPS or the process for referring your child for AAP, please visit www.fcps.edu and search “AAP” or contact Kathy Van Dyke, Mantua’s Advanced Academics Resource Teacher (AART) at kkvandyke@fcps.edu.
Food Drive
The Kids Care Club worked very hard to create this special presentation about the Mantua food drive. This video is less than 2 minutes long, so please take a moment to watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i15HH3uXyaI.
Through November 17th, we will be collecting food that supports families in our own neighborhood and school. The food drive collection box will be placed outside of the front office tomorrow afternoon. The classroom with the most donations will get to turn Principal Shannon into a mummy with toilet paper! Be sure your donation is clearly labeled with your student's teacher and grade so we know who to give credit to for the competition.
Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards!
To submit a nomination for a Mantua ES Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form link: https://forms.gle/62wVakiTeSHBPXhNA
You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category.) 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. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards and the eligibility requirements are below. The deadline to submit a nomination is Friday, November 19th. If you have any questions, please contact Susan Song at sssong@fcps.edu
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Outstanding Teacher: At least three years of experience as a teacher; librarians are included in this category.
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Outstanding New Teacher: Has up to three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category.
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Outstanding Leader: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal). Common positions in this category: Assistant and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services.
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Outstanding New Principal: Has up to three years of experience as a building principal.
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Outstanding Professional Employee: At least one year experience in current position as a non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership. Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school.
Outstanding Operational Employee: At least one year of experience in current position. Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons.
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Winter Coat Fundraiser for Fairfax County Students
Join Firefighter & Friends to the Rescue and Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Department to give coats to kids in need. The Mantua ES Parent Liaison and School Social Worker receive a donation of coats from them every year for students in need. This year they are struggling to raise money for the coats and need our support. Any amount helps!
https://secure.givelively.org/donate/operation-warm-inc/join-firefighter-friends-to-the-rescue-and-fairfax-county-fire-rescue-department-to-give-coats-to-kids-in-need
Fairfax Turkey Trot
We are excited to be running/walking in person again this year, on Thursday, November 25, 2021!
The Turkey Trot starts at 9:00 am Thanksgiving morning.
Proceeds from the Fairfax Turkey Trot will be donated to Britepaths (formerly Our Daily Bread). For more than 30 years, Britepaths has provided help and hope to struggling residents in the Fairfax County area. This support has been a beacon of light to many affected members of our community during the COVID pandemic.
Register today for the 9th Annual Fairfax Turkey Trot!
Online registration closes Monday, November 22, 2021, at midnight.
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Children Ages 5-11 Now Eligible to 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. Vaccines are expected to be available at mass vaccination sites really soon. 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.
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Join the Mantua Elementary PTA Facebook Page
Let’s get social! Don’t forget to join the Mantua Elementary PTA Facebook page! Not only is a great place to ask questions and connect with other families, we hope to keep it up to date with important events and dates throughout the year.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/MantuaPTA/?ref=share
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Join the PTA!
Please visit our webpage at MantuaPTA.org and click JOIN PTA NOW! Dues are $20 per family and get you discounts on PTA sponsored clubs. Our dues fully support our free programs so that every penny of our fundraisers goes right back into the classrooms. Follow us on Facebook to get the inside scoop on all our events and programs - https://www.facebook.com/groups/MantuaPTA/ - Can't wait to get started!
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Any changes in dismissal transportation need to be requested by emailing the Mantua Attendance (Mantuaelem.attendance@fcps.edu) by 11:00am, so the office has time to relay that change to the classroom teacher. No early dismissals will be permitted after 3:30pm. |
Parent Information Relating to Special Education
All these opportunities are FREE unless noted.
In most cases you must register if registration information is provided.
Reimagine Our National Response to People in Crisis
Tue.-Thu. Nov. 16-18,
Join efforts to elevate crisis response and coordinate advocacy to establish and fully fund our country’s 988 crisis response systems.
Register: https://reimaginecrisis.hubilo.com
Navigating Systems
Tue. Nov. 16, 2:00-2:45 pm
A former student with a disability who is now an entrepreneur with an MBA will describe the complex systems he continues to navigate.
Register: https://vcurrtc.org/training/webcasts/webcastDetails.cfm/561
Overcoming IEP Roadblocks
Tue. Nov. 16, 6-8 pm Herndon Fortmightly Library 768 Center St. Herndon
Send questions on this topic by 11/14 to COLdhamWautismfirstus.com
Register: https://autismfirstus.com/events/
The Science of Reading: How Instruction Re-Wires the Brain
Wed. Nov. 17, 7-8 pm
Gain an understanding of the learning-to-read process so as to help guide decisions on how to recognize and respond to a child’s reading disability.
Register: https://labschool-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/2716279315106/WN_yiZuBgM7TW69XpeOUjptLA
REVIVE! Training
Tue. Nov. 23, 3 pm
Learn what to do in an overdose situation, how to administer naloxone, and what to do afterwards. Supplies may be provided.
Register: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/heroin-opioids/revive
Ongoing and On Demand
Family Coaching — 8-12 week program
Work weekly one-on-one with a coach to identify individualized goals and create a targeted family plan.
Register: https://a109092.socialsolutionsportal.com/apricot-intake/e8afd273-4daa-4525-a1f1-b8ee33528344
Fairfax County’s Pre-Notification 9-1-1 Program
Enroll now in this new public safety program for individuals with disabilities.
Details & Registration: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/911/emergency-health-profile.
Special Education During a Pandemic
Learn what the laws specify that schools should provide, and how you can best support your child.
Access: https://drroseann.com/special-education-during-a-pandemic/
Dyslexia & the IEP: How to Make Sure the IEP Is in Tip-Top Shape
Webinar, available 24/7
Access: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frehRL58UTs
Accommodations for Recreational Classes and Camps with Fairfax County Parks
Accommodations include physical accessibility, ASL interpreters, assistive devices, sensitivity training for classmates, and staff training.
To request accommodations, email gary.logue@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703 324-8563
Scholarships for Classes with Fairfax County Parks
Children of families that receive public assistance (medicaid, free school lunch, SNAP, TANF) are eligible to take one set of classes per quarter for a $15 registration fee.
Information: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/scholarships
NAMI Basics
This 6-session course is for adults who provide care for youth (ages 22 and younger) who are experiencing mental health symptoms (including ADHD and ASD).
Register: https://www.nami.org/Videos/NAMI-Basics-OnDemand
Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy Training
Learn about special education law, rights and responsibilities; tests to measure progress and regression; SMART IEPs; and strategies for effective advocacy.
Info: https://www.wrightslaw.com/webex/law.adv.index.htm $50-$90
The Parent Playbook — 9 Module Online Course on Autism
From the VCU Autism Center for Excellence & Virginia Autism Council. An introduction on Autism Spectrum Disorder for families, including tips for caregivers, characteristics, interventions and recommended programs and services.
Access: https://vcuautismcenter.org/te/courses/parent_playbook.cfm
Support Groups for Parents
All these support groups are open to newcomers, and they are free, except where noted. No diagnosis is required to participate. Participants are typically given the opportunity to share their story, experience support, and glean guidance (as desired) from group members regarding both community and school resources. Confidentiality is to be respected.
AAC Parent Group meets occasionally on Saturdays. Contact: Amanda amandam@skillbuildersllc.com or 703-941-7757 ext. 316
African American Culturally Focused Virtual Parent Café meets Thursdays, 6:00-7:30 pm. Register at least 24 hours in advance by email BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-324-7720
Alpha Moms This support group for adoptive parents meets monthly in McLean. Contact: robin4brady@gmail.com
Arlington Epilepsy Support Group, a list-serve, can be accessed at ARLepilepsy@googlegroups.com
Autism Dads meets one evening monthly. Contact: George Buzby at 571-419-1257 or gbuzby@aol.com
Autism Society of NoVA Support Group meets on the 2nd Saturday of the month, 1:00-2:30 pm via Zoom. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9466001682; Meeting ID: 946 600 1682; One tap mobile (301) 715-8592
Business Networking Event for Special Needs Parents
Alternate Fridays, May 29 and following, 9:00-10:30 am Via Zoom. Connect with fellow special needs parents and business owners, build your referral network, and share best practices. Contact: https://thearcofloudoun.org/networking/
Cafés Virtuales Para Padres: Miércoles de 7:00-8:30 pm. Regístrese con al menos 24 horas de anticipación: BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov o 703-324-7720
CHADD: Children & Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
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Alexandria CHADD Parent Support Group 4th Mon. of each month at 6:30 pm. Contact: Susan, ADHDParentMountVernon@gmail.com or call 303-903-9972.
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Loudoun County CHADD Parent Support 3rd Wed. evening of the month. Contact: Bonnie Little 571-306-2932 or on Facebook @loudounahdhsupport
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West Fairfax/Burke CHADD Parent Support Group 1st & 3rd Thur. of each month at 8:00 pm Contact: Cathy, ocgreulich@aol.com
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CSB Family Support Group at Gatlan Center 2nd and 4th Wed. of each month 6:00-7:30 pm via Zoom Contact: Samar.Chwairy@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-799-2882.
D.A.D.S. Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome 3rd Tue. each month, 7-9 pm via Zoom. Contact: George gbuzby@aol.com or call 703- 545-6089.
Dr. Dan’s Support Group for Parents Raising Challenging Children meets via Zoom on Mondays, 1-2 pm, Register: http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07eh2rnzqrk9vdghmb/a0179kbgrhnj1/questions
Fairfax Juvenile Court Parent Support for problems including runaway behavior, truancy, alcohol/drug abuse, and serious behavioral problems at home, at school, or in the community. Sign up for a phone consultation at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0a44abab29abf85-juvenile
Family F.I.R.S.T. Fridays Autism Support Group meets on the 1st Friday monthly, noon-12:45 at Gum Spring Library 24600 Millstream Dr. Stone Ridge
Family Recovery & Support Group meets weekly via Zoom on Mondays 6:30-7:30 pm for family and friends of those receiving CSB services for addictions. Contact: Natalie.Holmes@fairfaxcounty.gov www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/recovery/family-support-virtual-group
Formed Families Together consists of monthly peer support groups for adoptive, kinship, and foster caregivers and parents. Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/formed-families-together-support-groups-tickets-147657582805
Virtual support group meets the 1st Sunday evening monthly.
In-Person support group meets the 3rd Wednesday evening monthly.
Grupo de Chat para Padres: Unete a nuestro nuevo GRUPO DE CHAT mediante la aplicación de WhatsApp y podras mantenerte al tanto de todo lo que PEATC Latino esta haciendo. Entra al GRUPO: https://bit.ly/2VoU2vw (Chat Group for Latino Parents: Join our new CHAT GROUP through the WhatsApp application and you will be able to keep up to date with everything that PEATC Latino is doing.)
Grupo de Educación y Apoyo a Padres en Española se reúne el cuarto sábado de cada mes, de 10 a 11 a.m. en Zoom en https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9466001682 ID de reunión: 946 600 1682
Kinship Café meets online 6:30-8:00 pm the 2nd Wednesday of the month for those raising the children of relatives and friends. To attend, call 703-324-7720 or email BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov .
NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness builds better lives for affected families. Arlington Parent Support Group meets two Sundays a month at 7:00-8:30 pm. Contact: Michelle Best mczero@yahoo.com
NAMI Family Support Group meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays on Zoom for parents of children living with mental health challenges including ADHD, ASD, etc. https://zoom.us/j/94509229914
OCD Family Support Group meets the 1st Mon. of each month, 7:30 pm. Contact: ela.mike@verizon.net or call 202-215-5859
Parent Café (for all Fairfax County parents and guardians) meets via Zoom in English on Mon., 7:45-9:15 pm, and en español, miércoles, 7:00-8:30 pm. Register at least 24 hours in advance by email BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-324-7720
Parents in a Pandemic is for families of children or young adults with developmental and/or behavioral challenges. They meet twice monthly, 5:30-6:30 pm on Tuesdays. Register: https://thearcofnova.org/jun-dates-for-virtual-parent-support-group-meetings/
Parents of Autistic Children (POAC-NOVA) Parent Support Group meets on Saturdays occasionally. Contact: Brianne Russel-Morris administrator@poac-nova.org .
REACH Parent Support Group meets monthly to support parents of individuals with developmental disabilities who also have mental health or behavioral issues. Contact: Dr. Pourmand mojgan.pourmand@eastersealsucp.com
Translators
Translators comprise another vital part of our outreach efforts. We want every Mantua ES family to feel included and connected—should families need to have a document translated into their native language, our volunteers are here to help!
- للحصول على نسخة مترجمة للغة العربية، نرجو الإتصال بالأخت بدرية كفالة على هذا الإيميل: cbn@mantuapta.org . If you need to have a document translated into Arabic, please email cbn@mantuapta.org .
- Если вам необходимо перевести документ на русский язык, пожалуйста обращайтесь к Анне Жердецкой или Виктору Жердецкому по электронной почте: cbn@mantuapta.org или cbn@mantuapta.org.
- 혹시 한국어로 번역된 자료가 필요하시면 좌승관씨에게 연락주세요(cbn@mantuapta.org.) If you need to have a document translated into Korean, please contact Kristina Clarke.
- Para obtener una copia en Espanol favor de contactar a Kristina Clarke at cbn@mantuapta.org. If you need to have a document translated into Spanish, please contact Kristina Clarke.
Email Kristina Clarke at cbn@mantuapta.org if you have any questions or would like to volunteer as an ambassador or translator with Mantua ES’s Community Building Network.
How to Submit an Announcement to the PTA News
Please complete this form to have a Mantua ES- or Mantua PTA-related announcement placed in the weekly Mantua PTA News, on our Facebook page and/or on MantuaPTA.org.
The form guides you through all the pieces of information we need to put out complete announcements.
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