Dear Dranesville Families,
I hope you are doing well and have a fun weekend planned. As nicer weather is approaching and we have more bikers and walkers near our schools I wanted to again remind you to please follow your schools procedures for kiss and ride and other means to arrive and leave school safely. Also, please drive slowly and follow safety procedures near our buses, we have had too many near accidents lately. One accident is one too many! Our new Safe Routes to School Specialist just came on board this week. I have advocated heavily for this position over the past years and look forward to working with him. I know he will be very busy!
If you missed the “Preparing Families for Difficult Conversations about Alcohol and Drugs” meetings for our pyramids, please consider attending the meeting at TJ or the virtual meeting. More information is below. We will be holding a district wide town hall on this topic soon so please watch for more details.
I wanted to get out some notices of upcoming renovation meetings and other events so please see below for more information. Please stay tuned for announcements of our next meeting on the Kent Gardens ES capacity issues. That will be coming soon.
Have a nice weekend.
Elaine
In this newsletter,
Earthquake Relief Efforts
Click the photo the learn about Cooper MS's fundraising efforts to aid Earthquake victims.
Cooper MS
Students at a number of Fairfax County public schools are using their ethical and global citizen Portrait of a Graduate skills to aid those who were affected by the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. Cooper Middle School students, including one who lived in Turkey and another who has family in the region, talked to Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid about why they are helping those in need.
Langley HS
Last week during February's Saxon Service, the students focused on making blankets to support families devastated by the powerful earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. The blankets were delivered to the Turkish Embassy after Saxon Service.
Go to this Fairfax County news release to see how you can help the people of Türkiye.
Earthquake Preparedness
Did you know?
Virginia is one of 45 states or territories in the US at risk of earthquakes. For context, the 2011 Virginia earthquake rated 5.9 on the Richter Scale; the February 2023 Turkey earthquake 7.8; the 2017 Mexico City earthquake 8.2; and the 2011 Fukushima, Japan earthquake 9.1.
Earthquake Safety Advice has Changed
- Drop, cover, and hold on. Drop to your hands and knees, if you can, protecting your head and neck.
- Stay away from windows if you are indoors.
- Stay indoors until the shaking stops or if you are sure it is safe.
FCPS Updates
Dranesville Elementary School Renovation Community Meetings
Dranesville ES Renovation Community Meeting- March 8
Scan the QR code or click the flyer to learn more.
March 8: 6:30-7:30 pm
Dranesville ES Cafeteria (1515 Powells Tavern Pl, Herndon)
Planning and design for the renovation of Dranesville Elementary School is underway and we would like to hear from you. Join us for a community meeting on Wednesday, March 8, in the school cafeteria, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m., to learn more about the project and design process to date and share your views on the project and design process. Public feedback will be shared with the Fairfax County Planning Commission, Board of Supervisors, School Board, and FCPS staff on the community’s view of the project and design process to date. Please be aware, at this stage in the design and construction process, no major changes may be made but small adjustments may be considered. Language interpretation will be provided based on the availability of interpretation staff.
Learn more about the Dranesville Elementary School renovation project.
Armstrong Elementary School Renovation Community Meeting
March 16: 6:30-7:30pm
Armstrong ES Cafeteria (11900 Lake Newport Rd, Reston)
Planning and design for the renovation of Armstrong Elementary School is underway and we would like to hear from you. Join us for a community meeting on March 16 in the school cafeteria, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. to learn more about the project and design process to date and share your views on the project and design process. Public feedback will be shared with the Fairfax County Planning Commission, Board of Supervisors, School Board, and FCPS staff on the community’s view of the project and design process to date. Please be aware, at this stage in the design and construction process, no major changes may be made but small adjustments may be considered. Language interpretation will be provided based on the availability of interpretation staff.
Learn more about the Armstrong Elementary School Renovation project.
Herndon Elementary School Renovation Community Meeting
March 20: 6:30- 7:30pm
Herndon ES Cafeteria (630 Dranesville Rd, Herndon)
Planning and design for the renovation of Herndon Elementary School is underway and we would like to hear from you. Join us for a community meeting on Monday, March 20 in the school library, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. to learn more about the project and design process to date and share your views on the project and design process. Public feedback will be shared with the Fairfax County Planning Commission, Board of Supervisors, School Board, and FCPS staff on the community’s view of the project and design process to date. Please be aware, at this stage in the design and construction process, no major changes may be made but small adjustments may be considered. Language interpretation will be provided based on the availability of interpretation staff.
Learn more about the Herndon Elementary School Renovation project.
Budget Update
At our February 23 meeting, the School Board adopted the FY 2024 Advertised Budget, which prioritizes student achievement, and recruiting and retaining outstanding educators. The FY 2024 Advertised Budget totals $3.5 billion—a net increase of $249.6 million or 7.6% over the FY 2023 Approved Budget. Nearly 86% of the Advertised Budget is targeted at instruction. The budget includes innovative investments that aim to close the achievement gap for all students. Read more about those investments.
Dranesville Budget meetings
McLean Citizens Association Budget Meeting
On Thursday, March 9 at 7pm, the McLean Citizens Association (MCA) and Supervisor Foust will host a virtual public meeting on the Proposed FY 2024 County budget. Submit questions to info@mcleancitizens.org. Watch live on MCA Facebook Page or register here.
Dranesville District Meeting
Join Supervisor Foust, Dranesville District School Board Representative Elaine Tholen, and budget staff from Fairfax County and FCPS to discuss the proposal, answer your questions and provide feedback:
Monday, March 27 at 7pm
These meetings will be live on Channel 16, streamed online, and recordings will be available in the video archive. For more information on the budget process visit the Department of Management and Budget website
School Board Approves 2023-24 School Year Calendar
The Fairfax County School Board approved a calendar for the 2023-24, 2024-25, and 2025-26 school years at their February 9 meeting. Learn more about the approved calendar. At the February 23, 2023, School Board meeting, the School Board approved two follow on motions for school year calendar 2023-24.
School Year Calendars
2022-2023 | 2023-2024 | 2024-2025 | 2025-2026
Strategic Plan
Next week, FCPS will be seeking your feedback on the school division’s progress with developing our new Strategic Plan.
Since last fall, thousands of students, staff, families, and community members have contributed to the strategic planning process by participating in focus groups, planning teams, community forums, and surveys. Parents/caregivers and community members will be invited to provide feedback on the work that’s been done thus far by completing a survey. Your input will help us know whether we are headed in the right direction—one that will help ensure a thriving future for every FCPS student.
Please keep an eye out for the survey link starting early next week. Visit our Strategic Planning webpage for more details.
Changes to SNAP Benefits
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Government passed a law to temporarily increase SNAP benefits to support families. Recently, the federal government changed the law. Beginning in March, all SNAP benefits will return to normal amounts, without the added supplement.
Here are some Fairfax County resources:
Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!
Every year, absences increase in the weeks before and after spring break. Please make sure your child is in school every day until vacation starts. Our teachers will be teaching, and our students will be learning. Visit the FCPS website for more attendance resources.
2023 History and Social Science Standards of Learning
Public comment and Public Hearing
The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) will hold public hearings on the Proposed Revised 2023 History and Social Science Standards of Learning. The Standards of Learning identify the essential content, processes, and skills for grade levels and subject courses.
Public comment regarding the proposed revised 2023 History and Social Science Standards of Learning may be offered through public hearings or public comment on the VDOE website until Tuesday, March 21. A hearing will be held Tuesday, March 14, at 7 p.m. at George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Visit the VDOE webpage for more information.
Academic Matters
Superintendent Reid shared a video on Early Childhood Education, and STEAM and computer science learning during her Academic Matters segment in the February 23 School Board meeting.
FCPS Early Childhood and PreK Programs
Fairfax County Public Schools offers programs for the youngest learners:
Community liaisons are available to assist families with the registration process and answer questions. For more information, visit the Early Childhood Registration webpage.
Kindergarten Registration: Easy as 1-2-3!
There is an easy five-step process outlined for parents looking to register their child for kindergarten:
- Determine eligibility.
- Identify local school.
- Gather documents.
- Fill out forms.
- Schedule an appointment.
After the appointment at your local school (the student and one caregiver must be present), the student will be ready for orientation, Bridge to Kindergarten, or any other introductory events each school may host. Read more about the registration process.
FCPS Tipline
As part of Fairfax County Public Schools' continuing efforts to maintain safe schools, a confidential and anonymous Tip Line is available to students, parents, staff, and other members of the FCPS community. To learn more about the tipline, click the photo or go to the link below.
Safety around School Buses
Many drivers get confused about when they have to stop and when they can pass a school bus with flashing lights. Drivers must stop when the red lights are flashing on a school bus when there are no raised medians or walls between their travel lanes and the school bus. Police follow school buses and are ready to issue reckless driving tickets. The penalty includes $2,500 in fines and loss of your license for six months and up to 180 days in jail.
School-Zone Camera Pilot Program Launched
Fairfax County has launched a speed camera pilot program targeting several school zones where speeding is common. Speed cameras have been installed at Chesterbrook ES and 7 other schools. An additional school zone speed camera near Oakton High School will be installed. Thank you to Fairfax County for helping to ensure we are all more safe as we travel to and from school!
Parental Notifications and Policy 3290: Sexually Explicit Content
A Virginia law passed in spring 2022 requires schools to create a policy for parental notification of sexually explicit content/materials. In December 2022, the School Board adopted FCPS Policy 3290: Parental Notification Regarding Instructional Materials with Sexually Explicit Content. FCPS has had policies in place for many years regarding the review of instructional materials, communication with parents, and options for alternative instructional materials. An expectation of this new policy is the 30-day parental notification requirement of sexually explicit content in instructional materials assigned or selected by teachers. After reviewing the notification letter, parents or caregivers who prefer to choose alternative instructional materials for their child must submit this form to the appropriate teacher within the 30-day notification window.
Parent Resource Center
Upcoming Webinars
Eating Disorders Awareness Week
Eating disorders are behaviors that can lead to serious health problems. These behaviors can begin as a child and affect all genders. When discovered early, eating disorders can be treatable. Contact the FCPS Parent Resource Center for more information or to schedule a free, confidential consultation: prc@fcps.edu or 703-204-3941.
Resources
Eating Disorders Books in the FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC): The FCPS PRC offers a free library materials for the community.
Eating Disorders What Every Family Needs to Know: View this webinar on eating disorders from the FCPS parent Resource Center.
To learn even more, please go to this PRC newsletter on eating disorders and visit this FCPS website on Eating Disorders.
Upcoming School Board Meetings
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Thursday, March 9, 7pm: Regular Meeting
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Tuesday, March 28, 11am: Retreat
Please note, times and topics are subject to change.
Interested in School Board action items? Sign up to get an update on any School Board votes the morning after the School Board meeting.
How to watch meetings and to sign up to speak
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For Spanish speakers: You can scan the QR code to watch recorded School Board meetings or watch Regular Meetings live on YouTube. |
Community Updates
Supervisor Foust's Newsletter
Please go here to sign up for Supervisor Foust's informative newsletter for Dranesville and Fairfax County news and events.
Live, Work, or Visit Tysons- Share your Input!
If you live, work or visit Tysons, we want to hear from you! A Wayfinding & Signage Survey is now available to gather information about how the public gets around Tysons and how wayfinding could improve the experience of navigating around the area. Please take a few minutes to take the online survey at https://publicinput.com/ffx-tysons-signage and share it with your neighbors and friends in the area. The survey will close on Monday, March 6 at 11:59 p.m.
Northern VA Soil and Water Conservation District Native Seedling Sale- March 7
Mark your calendar! The 2023 seedling sale opens Tuesday, March 7 at 9:00 am. Be ready to place your order early as packages sell out quickly. Orders must be picked up on Friday, March 31 or Saturday, April 1. Learn more about the seedling sale and place your order on March 7.
Herndon Mayor's Volunteer Appreciation Awards
Volunteers are truly the heart and soul of Herndon. The annual Mayor's Volunteer Appreciation Awards reception is a chance to honor those who selflessly give of their time and talent to enhance the quality of life for all. Do you know someone, or a group of people, who are deserving of these awards? Nominate them for recognition; nominations are due Monday, March 13.
Mastenbrook Grants for County Parks
Churchill Road and Lewinsville Parks ($4,003)
The McLean Trees Foundation (MTF) has planted and maintained 28 native trees and managed the removal of invasive plant species in the Churchill Road and Lewinsville parks and requested funds to accelerate the habitat restoration.
Family Garden Restoration at Colvin Run Mill ($7,337)
The Friends of Colvin Run Mill has requested matching funds to restore the Family Garden site immediately adjacent to the recently restored Miller’s House at Colvin Run Mill.
Learn more about the projects here.
Traffic Updates
Please be aware of the major roadway construction projects in Dranesville. Travelers are encouraged to visit 511virginia.org for current information on travel conditions and work zones in Virginia.
Dulles Toll Road- All-Electronic Tolling
Starting March 1, 2023, drivers will no longer need to stop at a toll booth on the Dulles Toll Road as it debuts a pay-by-plate toll payment system for motorists not using E-ZPass or similar payment devices. Eliminating cash toll collection is expected to speed traffic flow and benefit the environment by reducing emissions that would have been produced by vehicles waiting in toll-booth lines.
George Washington Memorial Parkway Construction
Crews will continue to install the temporary lane on the northbound side between Route 123 and I-495. Additionally, crews will continue to remove select trees at the outfalls throughout March. Lanes will be closed daily Monday- Saturday and nights.
The National Park Service (NPS) invites the public to learn more about the rehabilitation of the northern section of the George Washington Memorial Parkway at a virtual public information meeting:
Thursday, March 8 at 7 p.m.
Click Here to Join via Zoom or by phone: 1-929-205-6099
Webinar ID: 898 2543 5965; Passcode: 970907
Route 7 Update
Please see the Route 7 website for updates.
495 NEXT Project
If you have any questions, please visit the 495 NEXT website, or send an email to 495NorthernExtension@VDOT.Virginia.gov; or call the Project Inquiry Line: 703-592-6430.
Congratulations to Outstanding Staff Awardees!
Congratulations on our outstanding Dranesville teachers from R1, R2, and R5
- Region 1 Outstanding Elementary Teacher – Maureen Mehrer- ESOL teacher, Hutchison ES
- Region 1 Outstanding Professional Employee – Tara Dutton- Reading teacher, Forestville ES
- Region 2 Outstanding School Based Professional Employee - Sarah Español- Speech Language Pathologist, Marshall HS
- Region 5 Outstanding Elementary Teacher: Kristen Ceglie, 4th grade teacher, Coates ES
Join us for the McLean Pyramid Art Show
Students' Art will be on display from March 1 through March 11 with an opening reception Thursday March 9, 2023 4:30 - 6pm at the McLean Project for the Arts at the McLean Community Center -Emerson Gallery (1234 Ingleside Ave. McLean)
Join us for the Langley Pyramid Art Show
The Langley Pyramid show will run from March 16-25, with an opening reception March 16, again from 4:30-6 p.m. at the McLean Project for the Arts at the McLean Community Center -Emerson Gallery (1234 Ingleside Ave. McLean)
Gallery Hours: Tues-Fri 1pm-4pm, Saturdays 10am-3pm Late hours Fri. March 10 and Fri. March 24 until 7pm. Learn more about both shows here.
Herndon High School
Rise Against Hunger 2023
Help fight global hunger! Herndon HS and Herndon UMC are again offering a food packing event on Saturday, March 25, 9am - 1pm.
The goal is to pack over 30,000 meals in three hours. All are welcome to help, sign up here for a shift. Donations will go to support meals and Rise Against Hunger's in country efforts. Learn more about Rise Against Hunger at riseagainsthunger.org.
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McLean High School
First Amendment Press Freedom Award Winner
McLean High School has been selected as a 2023 First Amendment Press Freedom Award recipient. Click here for the FCPS statement or check out the official press release on the jea.org website HERE!
Langley High School
Mr. Peterson On Fox5 speaking on Teen Mental Health
Great advice from Langley HS Director of Student Services, Dr. Braden Peterson who appeared live on Fox5 this morning talking about how to help students cope with setbacks on World Teen Mental Wellness Day.
https://www.fox5dc.com/video/1187987
DIVERSEartLANGLEY
Congratulations to all who submitted their work answering the prompt: American voices telling American stories: What is YOUR American Story? The winners are shown below from Langley HS and Cooper MS.
Langley HS: DIVERSEartLANGLEY winners and Langley HS and Cooper MS orchestra concert
Cooper MS
Congratulations to Cooper’s DIVERSEartLANGLEY 2nd Place Finisher!
A hearty congratulations to talented Cooper student Katherine Chen who placed SECOND at the DIVERSEartLANGLEY art show this week! (See photo above showing Katherine’s piece, Swirl. She is on the left)
Cooper MS CyberPartiot Team
A CyberPatriot team with four Cooper middle school students placed 3rd in Virginia in the national semi-final of the XV CyberPatriot National Youth Cyber Defense competition. They also placed 3rd out of Virginia middle school teams in the State round.
Herndon MS
The Herndon Middle School Theatre Department will proudly present Legally Blonde Jr. The Musical on March 24th and March 25th, 2023, in the Herndon Middle School auditorium!
Longfellow MS
Last week, Longfellow Middle School took part in an all-day CPR training event organized by Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation. The foundation was created in 2015 by Joel and Jennifer Griffin in honor of Gwyneth, their oldest daughter. Gwyneth collapsed unexpectedly during her middle school field day in 2012. After Gwyneth’s death, the Griffins established Gwyneth’s Law, requiring placement of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in all public schools in Virginia. The law also requires mandatory annual Hands-Only CPR training for all Virginia public school teachers and Hands-Only CPR training for all Virginia high school students as a graduation requirement. Learn more about Longfellow's Gwyneth's Gift Foundation event here.
Haycock ES
Congratulations to our Science Olympiad Division B Team! They placed third at the VASO TJ Tournament and will be proceeding to the state tournament on March 25.
Lemon Road ES Composting
To bring attention to the importance of reducing food waste in the cafeteria, the Lemon Road Composting Team volunteers are assisting students in the proper collection of fruit and vegetable waste for use in making compost and capturing items for Food Share. The composting program, starting with grades 4-6 was rolled out under the guidance of Resource Teacher, Ms. Katie Busch. Finished compost will be used in the Lemon Road ES gardens.
March is:
Disability Awareness Month
In March, we will celebrate Disability Awareness Month. On February 26, 1987 President Ronald Reagan officially declared the month of March as National Disabilities Awareness Month. We strive for all of us to provide understanding, encouragement and opportunities to help persons with disabilities to lead productive and fulfilling lives and recognize the significant accomplishments those with disabilities have made throughout the world
National Women's History Month
Every year, March is designated Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation. The month is set aside to honor women’s contributions in American history. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Read more about Women’s History Month in National Geographic Kids.
Celebrating Arts in Our Schools
The Council for Art Education (CFAE) administers Youth Art Month. Youth Art Month encourages support for quality school art programs, and promotes art material safety.
March has also been designated by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) for the observance of Music In Our Schools Month® (MIOSM®), the time of year when music education becomes the focus of schools across the nation. The purpose of MIOSM is to raise awareness of the importance of music education for all children – and to remind citizens that school is where all children should have access to music.
National Reading Month
March is National Reading Month. The month kicks off with National Read Across America Day on March 2, where children, teachers, parents/caregivers, and community members around the nation come together to read books and celebrate the joy of reading.
March 14- Pi Day
From the Exploratorium Museum,
Every year on March 14—Albert Einstein’s birthday—number lovers can raise a piece of pie to Pi (π) Day, an international celebration of one of math’s most famous constants: the irrational, never-ending number π, pronounced pi (3.14159...). Exploratorium physicist Larry Shaw invented the playful celebration in 1988, and Congress declared it an official U.S. national holiday in 2009.Celebrate Pi Day wherever you are. From the pie feast to the pi procession and π activities.
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Great Falls Grange Oak Grove Cleanup
Help GFCA’s Environment and Parks Committee (EP) restore the stately and mature oak grove natural forest habitat at the park by preparing the site, planting, and caring for native plants that help oak trees thrive. Volunteers should meet at the Great Falls Grange (9818 Georgetown Pike) at 9a.m. on the scheduled workday. Students can get community service hours.
Sign up for one or more of the upcoming Saturday workdays — March 4, March 18, and April 1 from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. — at the Fairfax County Park Authority Invasive Management Area Website. Scroll down and click on "Volunteer, IMA Workday Calendar", then search "Great Falls Grange Park" for workday listings, or you can check GFCA's website.
Preparing Families for Difficult Conversations About Alcohol & Drugs
Upcoming Pyramid Parent/Caregiver Nights and virtual presentation
Adults only
Presented by: FCPS Student Safety & Wellness Office. What knowledge and information do you have to engage in meaningful conversation with your children about drugs? You will: ·
- Understand basic information about alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, and opioids ·
- List what you can do as a caregiver ·
- Identify & connect with community resources
Upcoming dates:
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TJHSST and Annandale Pyramid Parent/Caregiver Night:
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Monday, March 6, 6-8pm: Annandale HS
- Virtual session- Tuesday, March 21, 2023, 10-11:30am
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The Safe Community Coalition
Lynn Lyons returns to McLean on March 15!
The Safe Community Coalition, in partnership with the McLean Community Center, invites you to this speaker event on Wednesday, March 15 from 7 to 9 pm at The Alden Theatre (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean) Visit the Safe Community Coalition website http://mcleanscc.org/ for more information.
Anxiety and worry are normal and expected parts of learning and growing, but when teens and children face challenges cognitively, socially or emotionally, anxiety can step in and take over. Anxiety can be overwhelming and rigid, but it’s also based on predictable patterns that can be shifted once we learn how it operates.
Lynn Lyons, licensed independent clinical social worker and best-selling author of Anxious Kids, Anxious Parents and the newly-released The Anxiety Audit, presents Helping Your Family’s Emotional Health: Practical, Strategic Skills and Solutions for Managing Anxiety, Enhancing Flexibility, and Creating Wellbeing.
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Student Job Fair- March 18
McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean) is hosting a Summer/PT job fair for students at McLean, Langley, and Marshall High Schools on Saturday, March 18th from 11am – 1pm. Over 20 businesses will be on hand to provide information about their job opportunities and take your contact information. The minimum age requirement to work at most of these businesses is 15.
McLean HS Student Services and McLean PTSA present
Helping Your Kids Build a Life They Want: Parent Talk with Authors Dr. William Stixrud and Ned Johnson
Thursday, March 30, 2023 at 6:30 – 7:30 PM
McLean High School Auditorium
No registration needed!
We all want our kids to be happy and successful in life. Too often, many parents feel that if kids aren’t pushed harder, they won’t be successful. This approach can result in anxiety and depression, chronic stress, and a negative parent-child relationship. Bill and Ned will share strategies parents can use to help our kids achieve a life where success is defined by happiness, strong relationships, and overall wellness. If you are interested in learning about Bill and Ned’s work, please check out this podcast on achievement culture, as well as their books, linked below.
https://www.steventshapiro.com/experiencematters/thisisyourbrainonachievementculture
https://theselfdrivenchild.com/
FCPS Hall of Fame, Wednesday, April 19
Did you know that every year, nearly 14,000 students graduate from FCPS? Some of our most talented alumni will be inducted into the second class of the FCPS Hall of Fame on Wednesday, April 19.
This year’s Hall of Fame members include an Army general, an ambassador, entrepreneurs, a scientist, a doctor and philanthropist, and two non-profit leaders in Fairfax. Among the honorees are 2 Herndon HS and 2 Langley HS graduates. Learn more about them on the Educate Fairfax website.
Click the photo to register.
Children's Business Fair
Have a young entrepreneur in your home? Sign him or her up for the Children's Business Fair which will take place on Saturday, April 22, 2023, from 2 - 5 pm at Forestville Elementary School (Basketball Courts), located at 1085 Utterback Store Road in Great Falls, VA. This exciting event provides an opportunity for children to launch their very own startup businesses. They will have the chance to develop a brand, create a product or service, build a marketing strategy, and then open for customers at our one-day marketplace. We will have 50 booths available for children to showcase their businesses and it will be a great opportunity for them to learn about entrepreneurship and gain valuable experience. This event is sponsored by Acton Academy, the Acton School of Business and the generous support of our donors and volunteers.
Alden Theatre
McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean)
(the) Unruly Theatre Project
Friday, March 10, 7 p.m.
Come enjoy a night of laughs on us! (the) Unruly Improv is The Alden’s professional teen improv company. Learn more about the performance here.
Women's History Event - “Makin’ Cake”
Saturday, March 18, 6 p.m.
“Makin’ Cake” with Dasha Kelly Hamilton slices into American history exploring race, culture and class in a refreshing and fun way. It is storytelling in layers and filled with “Aha!” moments and poignant vignettes, digital media, and an onstage baker. Learn more here.
Get Paid for a Summer Adventure Working at Waterfront Parks
Are you looking for a summer job that matches with your own sense of adventure? Tired of the same old routine? The Park Authority is hosting an Open Hire event for waterfront parks on Saturday, March 11, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Herrity Building in Fairfax (12055 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax). Positions are open at Burke Lake Park, Lake Fairfax Park, Lake Accotink Park, and Riverbend Park. Learn more about the open hire event here.
Can’t make it to the Open Hire? No worries! Search jobs and apply at the Nature and History Jobs webpage. For more information, contact the Park Authority at FCPAJOBS@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-324-8792.
Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series
Looking for a job or volunteer opportunity? All students are invited to attend the 2023 Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series .
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Saturday, March 11: 11am- 1pm- West Springfield HS
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Saturday, March 18: 1am- 1pm- South County HS
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Saturday March 25: 1-3pm- Chantilly High School.
At each fair, students will have the opportunity to engage with employers offering part-time, full-time, seasonal, and volunteer positions. Most positions at the fair are geared toward students age 16+, but some opportunities for younger students may be available with parental consent. Registration for students is free and available online or at the fairs. For more information, or to register, please visit the Teen Job Fair webpage.
I Love McLean Celebration
March 11: 1- 4:30pm
McLean Community Center Community Hall
Come honor local firefighters and police officers. Entertainment and arts and crafts. Open house of the Alden Theatre and McLean Project for the Arts' Youth Art Show, McLean Pyramid. All ages welcome to join us for this free event!
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Performers Sought for McLean Day 2023 Community Stage
The McLean Community Center is thrilled to once again feature talented, local performers on the McLean Day Community Stage and are asking for your help in finding them. Detailed information can be found here, and the application is here—filling out an application is mandatory to be considered. An adjudication panel will convene in April to select acts, and we ask for at least one video clip per group.
Please share with neighbors, friends, members and/or students who may be interested (performers must live in the MCC Tax District). Like with most community stages of this type, performers will not be paid but the performance will be supported by a professional technical staff.
The application deadline is March 15, 2023 at midnight.
Please reach out to Danielle Van Hook, The Alden’s Director of Youth Theatre Programs, with any questions at Danielle.vanhook@fairfaxcounty.gov
Student Representative to the School Board
Each year, in accordance with FCPS Policy 1802, FCPS students have the opportunity to apply for the position of the student representative to the School Board. Students who are currently in grades 9, 10, and 11 are eligible to apply, and they do not need to be current members of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SAC).
The application involves 2 components. Both are required to be considered for the Election.
- Written Applications are due March 17, 2023. 2023 Student Representative to the School Board
- A thirty second candidate statement via Flip Video is due March 31, 2023. Candidates will be emailed a link to record their video on March 20, 2023.
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Herndon Kids' Fishing Derby
Saturday, March 18, 8am-12pm at Runnymede Park
Start an annual family tradition and join us for this special day! Children age 2-15 and their families learn about fishing and experience a relaxing and successful day catching fish. All kids MUST be accompanied by an adult. Limited fishing poles and bait are available for use. To learn more about the Derby or register, please go here.
The Sorensen Institute's High School Leaders Program
The Sorensen Institute's 2023 High School Leaders Program (HSLP) is a two-week summer program hosted July 15-29, 2023, at the University of Virginia. The HSLP provides a wonderful opportunity for high school students to experience a university environment, develop leadership skills, and engage with peers of different backgrounds and regions who have an interest in public service and public policy. The program is open to current sophomores, juniors, and seniors who live in or attend high school in Virginia. Applications are due Monday, March 20, 2023 at 11:59PM.
Children Science Center Internships
Children’s Science Center Internships close March 31 and include paid Lab and Cyber Internships, as well as summer camp internships that are eligible for Presidents’ Volunteer Service Award. Students and families can reach out to internships@childsci.org for interview tips and resume help.
Great Falls Garden Club Student Grant
To further the idea of planting native habitat gardens that provide shelter and food for animals, birds, and insects, the Great Falls Garden Club is offering a Youth Native Habitat Garden Grant. The $150 grant will be awarded to a student in Grades 5 – 11 who lives in the 22066 ZIP Code to create their own Native Habitat Garden. Learn more about the grant and find the application here. Grant applications must be post-marked by April 15, 2023.
Youth Conservation Camp for HS Students
Applications are now open for Youth Conservation Camp, held July 9-15 on the Virginia Tech campus. The program brings together 70 students for a week of learning about Virginia's natural resources from hands-on experience with conservation professionals and faculty from Virginia Tech. Students in grades 9-12 are eligible to apply and may receive a partial scholarship from NVSWCD. Applications are due Friday, April 28. Learn more about Youth Conservation Camp, including how to obtain an application and contact NVSWCD with questions.
National Wildlife Federation Photo Contest
The National Wildlife Federation’s National Wildlife Photo Contest is accepting entries through March 26, 2023. Students between the ages of 13-17 may enter in the Young Habitat Photographers category. Learn more about NWF’s National Wildlife Photo Contest and how to get a fee waiver.
NVSWCD College Scholarship
NVSWCD is offering a $1,000 scholarship to graduating high school seniors or college freshman pursuing a degree in natural resource conservation or a related field. The deadline to apply is Saturday, April 1. Learn more and apply for the Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship.
NOVA STEM Internships
NOVA is recruiting high school and college students interested in STEM education for paid summer STEM internships in support of our summer STEM camps. Interns will support camp instruction, contribute to curriculum development, and learn to teach technical skills in a low stress, fun environment. For more details and to apply, please go this website: intern.novastem.us/apply.
NPR’s Student Podcast Challenge
NPR’s Student Podcast Challenge will close on April 28. The judges will choose winners in two categories: grades five through eight and grades nine through 12. Entries must be submitted by an educator or a student leader who's 18 years old or older. And don't forget all the tips, advice and lesson plans we've compiled over the years and read more here.
NOVA Virtual Information Sessions for FCPS Families
Multiple dates- March and April
NOVA will present to FCPS seniors and their families; learn about the opportunities, degrees, certificate programs, numerous services and resources designed to connect seniors to NOVA. Click here for NOVA information session dates and registration links. Open to all FCPS seniors and parents. For questions, email admissions@nvcc.edu
Transurban’s Express Lanes Community Grant programs
Transurban, developer and operator of the 495, 95 and 395 Express Lanes, has launched a new competitive grant program to benefit the local community as part of the 495 Express Lanes Northern Extension (495 NEXT) project in Fairfax County. The 495 NEXT Community Grant program will award multiple grants each quarter worth up to $3,000 to non-profit organizations, educational institutions and other entities that sustain, enhance or protect the local environment and neighborhoods in proximity to the 495 NEXT project corridor. Successful grant applications will support an organization or neighborhood; provide benefits to a directly-affected community near the 495 NEXT corridor; or demonstrate social, environmental or safety benefits within the corridor.
Deadlines to apply for a community grant program occur quarterly, with the next deadline on March 31. Learn more about Transurban’s Express Lanes Community Grant programs and how to apply here.
Please see the FCPS Summer Learning site for dates and more information. This page is full of information for many different types of summer learning. Visit the PRC's Summer Camp Guide for camps for all children including special needs.
NOVA STEM Camp Registration
Camps are focused on hands-on, project-based learning that provides students with excellent opportunities to begin exploring STEM fields and to chart a course for future STEM education and workforce opportunities. Our STEM camp tracks include Coding, Robotics, Cybersecurity, Fabrication, Rocketry and more! Registration for our hands-on summer 2023 STEM Camps is now LIVE here.
FCPS Summer Learning Programs Registration
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to give current K-6 students an opportunity to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Visit the TAC webpage for more information.
CTE Summer Academy (CSA) is a week-long enrichment program that allows students in grades 7-11 to dive deeper into CTE program areas, develop skills, and begin career exploration. Visit the CSA website for more information and registration.
Institute for the Arts Camps (IFTA)
IFTA is a two- or four-week summer enrichment program for students currently in grades 6-11. Students select from nearly 90 classes in art, dance, health and physical education 9, music, self-directed economics and personal finance, and theater. Visit the IFTA website for more information and registration.
E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four classes every day related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create classes that are fun and engaging. Visit the E-IFTA website for more information and registration.
MCC Summer Camps & Trips
Magical adventures await your child this summer at the McLean Community Center. Whether you need a full-day, all-summer-long camp or just a few select weeks of a half-day camp, the wide range of options in this guide allows you to customize a plan that meets your family’s unique needs. Find out more here.
McLean Project for the Arts Summer Art Camp
Join us for our 2023 Summer Art Camps, featuring a variety of imaginative and fun week-long in-studio camp sessions for ages 6-13! Taught by experienced classroom art teachers, each week will feature different art themes to ignite your child's creativity. Half and full-day options are available.
Park Authority Camps
The Park Authority offers summer day camp options for children ages 3 to 16. The camps are held at more than 50 locations in the county, including Rec Centers, nature centers, historic sites, lakefront parks, golf courses and schools. Virtual camps are also available for those who prefer or cannot attend in person.
Neighborhood and Community Services Camps
Camp Fairfax: Run by School Age Child Care, Camp Fairfax provides all-day, weekly summer camp options for rising first to seventh graders at 35 locations. Registration is open for all sites.
Therapeutic Recreation Camps: These camps offer an affordable summer camp experience for persons ages 5-22 with developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, physical disabilities, emotional disabilities, learning disabilities and/or attention deficit disorders. Registration information will be posted in April.
Teens In Action: This out-of-school time program offers engaging, healthy and affordable recreation opportunities for ages 12 to 18 at 10 county locations. Teens In Action is free of charge for Fairfax County residents. Spring break registration is open. Summer break information will be posted mid-March.
Value in Prevention (V.I.P) Camp: This camp offers healthy and positive leisure activities for rising and current middle school students. Registration information is coming soon.
Find more information on Neighborhood and Community Services camps here.
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FCPS Cares
The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. Please submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees
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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.
© 2022 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia
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