Weekly Newsletter 2/15/2023

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.


Public Separate Day School Survey

This school year, the School Board has charged the Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) with making recommendations regarding our Public Separate Day Schools.  Key Center falls into this category.  As part of the data collection process, ACSD’s School Board Charge subcommittee prepared a survey for distribution to our families.  Some time in the next week, you can expect to receive a hardcopy survey, as well as a link to a site where you can complete the survey electronically.  You may opt to respond whichever way works best for you.  

Your input is very important!  This is your chance to have your voice heard as a family member of a student who attends a FCPS public separate day school.  Your answers will help the ACSD understand how you feel about your student’s public separate day school.  Please look for this survey and complete it in order to share your thoughts and desires for Public Separate Day Schools, and OUR school in particular.

*Please note:  this survey is specific to public separate day schools and is not the same as the Special Education Enhancement Plan feedback request (below in this newsletter).  You may opt to respond to both requests for feedback. 


Reminder

Presidents Day


All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 20, for the Presidents Day holiday. Learn more about Presidents Day in Britannica.com. Classes will resume on Tuesday, February 21.


SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs

Sibshop


The Sibshop workshops are for children in grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools who have siblings with special needs to:

  • Meet other siblings in a relaxed setting.
  • Celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of children with special needs.
  • Share sibling experiences and receive peer support.
  • Play games and have fun!

Friday, March 3, 2023, 9 a.m.- noon at Providence Community Center

Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services

Register for SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!


School Year Calendar

calendar


The FCPS School Year calendar for 2023-24, 2024-25, and 2025-26 has now been approved! This is the first time that FCPS has designated and approved a calendar for three school years at one time. The calendar reflects our continued commitment to academic excellence and equity while recognizing the diversity of our students and community. See the new calendar & learn more: http://bit.ly/3TCOJob


Special Education Enhancement Plan

Special Ed

 

Special Education Enhancement Plan: Feedback Opportunity

Fairfax County Public Schools is developing a Special Education Enhancement Plan to help ensure an excellent educational experience for all students with disabilities. As part of this effort, FCPS is seeking feedback from employees, families, and community members on Part 1 of the Draft Special Education Enhancement Plan. Please complete this form by Friday, February 17, to provide input on FCPS’ priorities regarding special education including vision, mission, core values, goals, and objectives. 

Thank you in advance for lending your voice to this important work. Visit the Special Education Enhancement Plan webpage for more information.


Strategic Planning

ST. Planning


Equity, Excellence, and Opportunity

At Fairfax County Public Schools, we believe that learning happens best in community. When we have equally high expectations for each and every student, we all benefit. Excellence, equity, and access to opportunity are essential for achieving success in all aspects of life. Together, they foster growth, development, and high achievement for all students as they prepare for a world yet to be imagined.

Read more about how FCPS strives to ensure excellence, equity, and opportunity for every student.

Your Voice Matters! Have Your Say in Our Future 

What is the ONE promise our school division should make and keep regarding learning, growth, and success for every student? Tell us and help shape FCPS’ future.


Month of the Military Child - Purple Up! T-Shirt Vote

PurpleUP


April is the Month of the Military Child, and Purple Up! Day will be celebrated throughout Virginia on April 19, 2023. Please take a moment to vote for this year's FCPS Purple Up! t-shirt and show your support for military-connected youth by participating in Purple Up! Day! The voting ends Friday, February 17. Let's turn FCPS purple in support of military-connected youth for one day!


Staff Spotlight

Sarah BP

This week’s Key Center Staff Spotlight is on Sarah Bracken Payne.  Sarah has worked at Key Center for nine years.  As our Lead Teacher, she supports our classroom teachers, oversees student testing and manages instruction for our homebound students.  You can learn more about Sarah on our school’s website.


February is Black History Month

In celebration of Black History month, Key Center students have enjoyed learning about the history, culture, and achievements of Black Americans.

Black History Month

Request for Donated Picture Books

books


Key Center is seeking donations of gently used picture books.  These books will be used during the upcoming Read Across America week.  If you have books that you would like to donate, please send them to school in your student’s backpack marked with Key Center Donation.  There is also a collection box located in our front lobby if you would like to drop them off.


Key Center PTA - Needs Your  Help

PTA


Key Center PTA Donations

Key Center PTA Membership

Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

For questions, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at KeyCtrPTA@gmail.com or (301) 646-7447.


Calendar

Upcoming Dates:

February 20        Presidents’ Day - Holiday

March 2              2 Hour Early Release - 11:50am Dismissal

March 3              Student Holiday/School Planning Day

April 3-7              Spring Break

2022-23 FCPS School Calendar