 Some of our school community got festive for St. Patrick's Day on Friday!
 Last Saturday a group of Latinas from 6th grade went to the Marymount University to an ENCUENTRO of Latin Girls, where they learn how to combat stereotypes, conflict resolution techniques, and how to build healthy friendships. Cameron ES was well represented!
 Kindergarten and 4th grade students each hosted morning meetings today during our school-wide morning meeting about Social Intelligence.
Order Cameron Spirit Gear!
The PTA has a new spirit gear order in progress! Please purchase online. The order will be open until March 29.
Kindergarten Registration 2023-2024
We are so excited to welcome our newest Cheetahs! We are now accepting Kindergarten Registrations for the 2023-2024 school year. In order to register for Kindergarten for the 2023-2024 school year, your child(ren) must be age five on or before September 30, 2023. Please call our registrar, Leah Donlin, at (703) 329-2104 to schedule a registration appointment.
Please view our website for additional information about registration. https://camerones.fcps.edu/student-services/student-registration
We would also like to invite you to our Kindergarten Orientation being held at our school on May 11, 2023, from 6:00pm-7:00pm.
Family Liaison Corner
by Susana Trupo
“The world isn't fair, Calvin." "I know, Dad, but why isn't it ever unfair in my favor?” ― Bill Watterson
Dear Families,
Fairness is a difficult word to understand by our children, an abstract concept. Children need to learn and recognize fairness and understand how when being unfair can be hurtful to others. In this way, we develop empathy and sensitivity that will help us prevent bullying. Our children are often egocentric and see the world from their perspective, so when they say, “it’s not fair,” it is because they don’t like the outcome.
You can help your children recognize unfairness, develop language around the unfairness word to help describe unfairness and understand how much unfairness hurts.
I found some interesting points for your consideration.
Listen for unfair comments, behaviors, or actions and address the behaviors honestly, directly, and immediately. For example, Lauren is sad when you tell her she cannot play with you. Or all the children in our class can share these toys. It is not okay for you to tell someone they cannot play.
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Help children develop appropriate responses when they experience themselves or others being treated unfairly. For instance, Tell Mindy how that makes you feel. Say, “That makes me feel sad when you do that.”
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Give kids the language they need to talk about unfairness. Ask children to express their ideas about fairness and sharing. Prompt children to talk about their feelings when they are mistreated. Discuss words or phrases children can use to express their feelings and guide others to correct unfair behaviors. For example, when we play a game at home, how can we ensure everyone gets a chance to play and understand it is OK not to win? Who has an idea how we can do that?
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Teach fairness as a primary home rule to help children feel safe.
Why is it difficult for children to understand the concept of fairness?
- Very young children are concrete thinkers. Fairness is an abstract concept.
- Children are naturally egocentric and tend to think of themselves first. They will identify a situation or action that works against them as unfair but will have a more difficult time identifying an action they perform as unfair to others.
What strategies can you use to teach about fairness and make it more understandable for young children?
- Have children brainstorm and role-play solutions such as trading toys, sharing, and playing together.
- Be attuned to children’s interactions and be ready to respond immediately to incidents of unfairness.
- Identify and point out fair and unfair behaviors.
- Encourage a safe and secure atmosphere where children can express their feelings and ask questions.
- Make the idea of fairness concrete. Use images to inspire conversations about fairness.
How can you help children respond appropriately when conflict arises?
- Address unfair behaviors honestly, directly, and immediately.
- Give your children the language they need to talk about unfair treatment. Discuss words or phrases children can use to express their feelings and guide others to correct unfair behaviors.
Reflect
Consider your home’s learning environment as you answer these reflection questions.
- How do you teach at home about fairness?
- What can you put into practice at home to help your kids learn about fairness?
- Are you fair?
Understanding Virginia Growth Assessment (VGA) Reports
Grade 3-8 students across Virginia took VGA tests in fall and winter of 2022-23. FCPS mailed score reports to families earlier this month that combine Fall and Winter results. When viewing students’ scores, it is important to keep in mind that there is no “passing” or “failing” for VGA tests and that each vertical scaled score reflects performance on a single day. VGA results should be used alongside other available data for a more complete picture of students’ academic progress. Also keep in mind that the VGA asks questions from the entire curriculum, including some standards that will not be taught until later in the school year.
The FCPS VGA Score Reports webpage now includes a section on Understanding VGA Results, featuring Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). This section will continue to be updated throughout the spring to address incoming questions and to reflect additional state guidance as it is released.
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Magnet School Applications
FCPS is accepting applications for its elementary magnet school programs. Registrations for the three elementary magnet school lottery closes on Wednesday, April 12, at 4:00pm. Three FCPS elementary magnet schools provide programs that enhance learning in science, technology, and performing arts. Click here for more information.
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Register Now for April Webinars
SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!
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, April 14, 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!
View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others.
Flash Forward: Postsecondary Education and Employment Options
This event is designed to provide students with disabilities seeking a standard or advanced diploma and their families an introduction to options available after high school.
W.T. Woodson High School 9525 Main St. Fairfax, VA. 22031
Schedule
- 6:30 - 7p.m. Overview Presentation on Postsecondary Options
- 7 - 8:30p.m. Options Fair
Wednesday, April 26, 2023 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Presented by FCPS Career and Transition Services
Register for Flash Forward: Postsecondary Education and Employment Options
View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others
Neurodiversity at High School
How can families partner with schools?
- Strategies to set your child up for success
- How to advocate for your child
- Tools for collaborating with your child's school
April 28, 2023, 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Presented by Kristen Haynor, FCPS Neurodiversity Specialist
Register for Neurodiversity at High Schools
View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others.
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Important Dates
Mar 22-23 - Ramadan, Religious / Cultural Observance Day
Mar 22 - HIPPY Family Program, 9:30-2, SACC Room
Mar 24 - Valentine's Dance K-2, 4:20-5:45pm, Gym
Mar 29 - HIPPY Family Program, 9:30-2, SACC Room
Apr 3-7 No School, Spring Break
Apr 12 - PTA Meeting, 7pm, Virtual
- HIPPY Family Program, 9:30-2, SACC Room
Apr 13 - Early Release, 2pm, End of Quarter 3
Apr 14 - No school for students
- Chuck E Cheese Night, 4-8pm
See the complete 2022-2023 school year calendar
Cameron Website • Twitter • Facebook • SIS Parent Account
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