From the Administration
Dear Belvedere Family:
We hope you are enjoying this day off with your child. Eid Mubarak to all our families who celebrate Eid al-Fitr. We know this is a very special day for you and hope for a wonderful celebration with family and friend.
We thank our military families who attended the Purple Up breakfast. Ms. Ballard and Ms. Simpson, school counselors, and Ms. Plazas, parent liaison, planned the breakfast and celebration of our military connected students. General Kip Kahler, father of a 5th grader, spoke to the group about how purple became the color for the military child, and with Commander Carlos Plazas, handed out certificates to our military kids.
The PTA Silent Auction has one more day to bid!! The Silent Auction ends Saturday the 22nd at 9pm!! Don’t forget to bid on a party with your child’s teacher or lunch with the principal! New items added daily such as new Aqua Tots swim lessons. Please check it out - there is something for everyone.
Cecilia Vanderhye, Principal, & Kelly Cabezas, Assistant Principal
SOL Testing and Attendance
We wanted to remind you of our upcoming SOL testing schedule. As you know, these tests are an important measure of our students' progress and are required by the state. Please make sure that your child attends school on the day of their test.
We kindly ask that you avoid scheduling any appointments or vacations on these testing days. We understand that unexpected circumstances may arise, but it is essential that your child is present for their test. If your child is absent on the day of their test, they will have to make up the test on a different day.
Please refer to the schedule below for the testing dates for your child's grade level:
May 1: 5th Grade Science
May 2: 4th Grade Reading
May 3* (*Updated): 3rd Grade Reading
May 5: 5th Grade Reading
May 9: 4th Grade Math
May 10: 3rd Grade Math
May 11: 5th Grade Math
Week of May 15: Makeups
Week of May 22 and 30: Retakes
Thank you for your cooperation and continued support in ensuring our students' academic success.
PTA Online Auction
The bidding has begun! Please take a look at all the items available! Capitals tickets, an autographed Nationals baseball, Code Ninjas camp, swim lessons, Great American Restaurant Gift Card and Most importantly Teacher experiences!!
Sign on through our website or directly on http://app.memberhub.gives/belvedere
Auction Ends on April 22 at 9pm!
Kindergarten Orientation - April 27
Kindergarten Orientation for the 2023-2024 school year will be held on Thursday April 27th at 6 – 7:30pm in the Belvedere Cafeteria. Registration is now open and we encourage parents to bring their paperwork in as soon as possible. No appointment is necessary.
Registration forms can be found at www.fcps.edu/registration/forms or you can stop by the office and we can give you a packet. Please contact our registrar, Mandy Belcher at 703-916-6804 or by email at abelcher@fcps.edu, if you have any questions.
We look forward to welcoming you to Belvedere ES!
Belvedere Outdoor Club
Outdoor Club is participating in the DC City Nature Challenge on Saturday, April 29, at Kingman Island in Washington, DC. Bus transportation is available from Belvedere and Barcroft View apartments. More information and permission slips were sent home (also available here). Space is limited and participation is first come, first served, as forms are received. Save the date for this year's final Outdoor Club trip on 5/20. Please contact our Environmental Educator, Andrea Auerbach (asauerbach1@fcps.edu) with questions.
Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) Available at Kindergarten Registration with Low-cost Medical Resources
Belvedere ES will hold Kindergarten Registration on April 27, 2023 from 6pm-7:30pm. The Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) Family Assistance Workers will be onsite at the Kindergarten event and can connect families with medical care resources. FCHD has free or low-cost options to suit your needs and will help families enroll.
A Health Department nurse will be onsite to review immunization records for kindergarten students and assist with scheduling an appointment at a health clinic. Learn more at www.bit.ly/ffx-medical-care
Eid al-Fitr (½ O Day on April 20, Student holiday April 21)
Eid al-Fitr, marks the end of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting, and is celebrated during the first three days of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar. Read more at Britannica.com.
FCPS has designated Eid al-Fitr as a religious and cultural observance day designed to allow students the opportunity to miss school for observances not already designated as school holidays. Eid al-Fitr is from sunset April 20 to sunset April 21. Thursday, April 20, is a half O Day, and Friday, April 21, is a holiday (only 12 month employees report).
2nd Annual Belvedere Field Day
Mark your calendars! Friday June 2nd is our 2nd Annual Belvedere Field Day. Stay tuned for a sign up genius for parent volunteers to help with field day. Field day for 3rd- 5th graders will be in the morning and field day for K-2 will be In the afternoon. If you have any questions please email Abby Novak anovak@fcps.edu or Dan Bowles dbowles@fcps.edu. Thank you, we appreciate your support!
National Library Week! April 23 - 29
April is School Library Month and it's a great time to celebrate the essential role that school librarians play in the lives of students. School librarians ensure students have access to a wide variety of high-quality books and resources that connect them to the world and build a culture of literacy. Librarians develop lessons that are meaningful to students and help them develop critical thinking, inquiry, and information literacy skills. They support learning across all subject areas by teaching students the skills to be independent problem-solvers and creative thinkers. By creating a safe environment for all students to be engaged and curious learners, FCPS libraries are places where everyone belongs.
National Library Week is April 23-29. Take a moment to learn more about FCPS Library Programs and share your appreciation of your school librarian!
From the Counselors
Spring Newsletter
Please check out the latest newsletter from our school counselors!
Parent Workshop in Spanish
There will be a parent workshop in Spanish on May 2nd from 5:30-7:30 pm in the school cafeteria to address effective parental involvement in education for academic success through graduation. Check out the details and register!
Belvedere Career Day
Our 4th and 5th grade students will attend Career Day on Wednesday, May 31 from 940-1140 a.m. Career Day consists of students rotating to four different 20-minute sessions during the morning.
Our 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades will have a speaker come in during their classroom school counseling lessons in May.
How can you help? We are seeking parents, family members or neighbors of students from any grade level who are interested in sharing with students about their careers. Those who are interested in participating should be prepared to give a short presentation (15-20 minutes) with time for questions. We hope to gather speakers from a wide variety of careers, to provide students an opportunity to get a closer look at occupations and to learn how the skills they learn every day in school relate to real life.
Download, complete, and return this form if you are interested in presenting!
Reach out to Tracy Ballard: tmballlard@fcps.edu with any questions.
Advanced Academic Program Updates
AAP Orientation
We will host our orientation for families who were found eligible to receive full-time services (Level 4) here at Belvedere on Tuesday, April 25th from 6:00-7:00 in the gym.
Spring Newsletter
Fairfax County Public Schools AAP offers levels of services to foster and develop the academic and cognitive needs of each child. Screening for Subject-Specific Advanced Differentiation (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services will happen later this spring for students in kindergarten through fourth grade. If you have any questions about FCPS AAP or the Young Scholars program, please contact our Advanced Academic Resource Teacher, Preshion Lynch, at pmlynch@fcps.edu
Please check out the latest newsletter from the AAP Office!
PTA Volunteer Opportunities
Celebrate Earth Day by giving back to the bees and butterflies.
Sign up to join our work party to spruce up Belvedere's Pollinator Garden! Come for an hour or stay the whole time. All ages and community members are welcome!! (Children must be supervised.) No green thumbs or tools required. Find the sign up here: www.belvederepta.org
Questions? Contact bespta.va@gmail.com.
Costume Jewelry Donations Needed
The Belvedere PTA will be hosting its annual “Jewelry Shop” in early May. Every Belvedere student will be able to earn a ticket to “shop” for one free piece of costume jewelry for their mother, stepmother, grandmother, or other special person in their life.
We’re collecting donations of gently used:
• necklaces
• bracelets
• pins
• pierced or clip earrings
If you have any costume jewelry you no longer wear, we’d be grateful to have it. The jewelry doesn’t have to be fancy – just something in good condition that might make a student and his or her chosen recipient smile.
We need about 1,000 pieces of jewelry to give the students a wide selection to choose from. We’re also accepting monetary donations to help pay for supplies – tissue paper, gift bags and card tags. Checks can be made payable to “Belvedere PTA” with “jewelry shop” in the memo line.
There’s a donation box in the Belvedere front office or you can contact Ann Sisson at 703-945-0228 or 2esisson@gmail.com to arrange a pick up.
Please submit all donations by May 1st!
Thanks!
E-IFTA Summer Program Registration is Open
Elementary Institute for the Arts, (E-IFTA), is a weekly arts camp for elementary-aged students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create! Students take part in four classes every day related to dance, music, theatre, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create classes that are fun and engaging.
- Lake Braddock Secondary School, transportation provided.
- E-IFTA grades 2-5, during the 2022-23 school year.
- 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
- July 5-28, 2023, Register for each week.
- No Tuition for students who qualify for free and reduced lunch.
Download the flyer for all the details and registration information
Join the PAC!
Fairfax County Park Authority Rec-Pac registration is open for summer 2023. Program runs from June 26 - August 3 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. for students in grades 1-6. Read the flier for more details!
Annandale Summer Sports Camps
Looking for fun activities for your child this summer? Annandale High School is offering a variety of summer camps this year for current elementary and middle school students led by our own Annandale coaches. Help spread the word to friends, family and neighbors!
Registration for all camps can be found HERE. See descriptions of the various camps below. More information can be found at AnnandaleAtoms.net.
Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp, and they should bring a snack and a water bottle each day. Cash or checks are accepted. Checks should be made out to “Annandale Athletic Boosters”. Payment is due on the first day of camp.
If you have any questions, please email Brandon Sutphin, Director of Student Activities, at basutphin@fcps.edu.
Camp Information
Multi-Sport Camp - Rising 2nd-9th Graders - June 20-23 ($120): Campers will have fun playing a variety of sports including basketball, kickball, volleyball, soccer, and touch football. They will participate in fun contests and win prizes! Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp. Hours are 8:30am-3:00pm. Register Here.
Olympics Camp - Rising 2nd-9th Graders - June 26-29 ($120): This exciting camp features team activities including soccer, volleyball, basketball, touch football, and relay races. Campers will also get a chance to compete and earn medals! Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp. Hours are 8:30am-3:00pm. Register Here.
For questions about Multi-Sport or Olympics Camps, please reach out to Christopher Bagot, Camp Director and Varsity Coach, at cabagot@fcps.edu.
Basketball - Rising 4th-9th Graders - July 10-14 ($250): Campers will spend each day focused on developing their basketball skills. They will also receive a report card on their basketball abilities, a t-shirt, and a chance to win trophies. Campers can bring their lunch or purchase lunch at camp. Hours are 9:00am to 3:00pm. Register Here.
For questions about Basketball Camp please reach out to Jerome McAvoy, Camp Director and Varsity Coach, at jjmcavoy@fcps.edu.
Girls Field Hockey/Lacrosse - Rising K-9th Grade - July 10-14, July 17-21, & July 24-28 ($120/week): For new athletes and those who have been playing for years, camp will be a fun-filled day of training, group competition, and surprise activities. Campers should bring their lunch each day except Friday when lunch will be provided. Hours are 8:00am-3:00pm. Register Here.
For questions about Girls Field Hockey/Lacrosse Camp please reach out to Janan Gokturk, Camp Director and Assistant Varsity Coach, at jahawthorne@fcps.edu.
Belvedere is on Facebook!
We are thrilled to announce that we have officially launched our Facebook page! This is an exciting step for us as we look to strengthen our connection with families and the wider community.
Our Facebook page will be a hub for all the latest news, events, and activities happening at our school. We will keep you informed about everything from upcoming events to amazing things happening in our classrooms. We'll also be sharing helpful tips and resources to support your child's learning and development.
We're looking forward to engaging with you all on Facebook and keeping you updated on everything that's happening at our school. So be sure to follow our page, and keep an eye out for our upcoming posts. We can't wait to connect with you!
Thank you for your continued support!
Dads @ Belvedere
Dads at Belvedere (formerly Watch D.O.G.S.) is a program to help our school be positively impacted by the committed involvement of fathers and father-figures in their student’s life. Our goal is to have you spend at least one day this year at the school to be a positive male role-model. Dads this is your chance to get involved in a fun atmosphere at school!
Dads will volunteer at the school for one full day. School will provide the schedule to include activities such as: recess, lunch, specials, classroom time, etc.
Our kids love seeing the grown-ups in their life at school! Additionally, Dads are demonstrating through their presence that education is important.
Sign up for a day on our calendar using the Signup Genius below:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090449A4A722A64-dads
Community Meeting on the Dangers of Fentanyl
Opioid overdoses are on the rise across the country, including in Fairfax County. Most fatal overdoses in Fairfax County in recent years involved fentanyl.
Last month, FCPS hosted a conversation on the dangers of fentanyl. During this impactful event, audience members heard testimonials from individuals affected by the opioid epidemic and learned facts from medical experts and law enforcement representatives.
The conversation will continue on Monday, April 24, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at Woodson High School. FCPS principals and staff will share what is happening in our schools and update the work to prevent substance misuse and educate our students.
Transportation will be available from select schools throughout the county. Transportation information can be found once you begin the registration process.
Visit our Opioid Awareness webpage for more information. Visit the Fairfax County Government webpage on opioids for information on how you can take action and get help for yourself or loved ones.
From the Belvedere Family Center
Upcoming Workshops for Families
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Dad’s parenting Group, free for all participants, Sessions virtually held on Mondays 6 pm to 8:30 pm starting May 8 – July 31, 2023. Pre-Registration required.
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Tween & Parent Group – Strengthening Families Program for Parents & Youth 10-14. 7 Week sessions- Thursdays nights – 6-8:30 pm April 27, May 4,11,18,25, June 1, 8. Virtual and via Zoom
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Webinar: Let’s talk about grief: What to say and how to support children and adolescents who have lost a loved one. May5, 2023 10-11:30 am
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Webinar: Portrait of a Graduate. Friday May 12, 2023 10-11:30
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Webinar : 1-2-3 Magic. May 19, 2023 10-11:30 am. A discipline approach for kids.
Upcoming Webinars and Events for Caregivers
FCPS’ Parent Resource Center (PRC) is dedicated to helping adults support the success of all students. Upcoming PRC webinars include:
Presented by Career and Transition Services, students with disabilities seeking a standard or advanced diploma and their families are invited to this event that provides an introduction to options available after high school. This event takes place at Woodson High School.
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Neurodiversity at High School, Friday, April 28, at 10 a.m.Kristen Haynor, a neurodiversity specialist, will share strategies on setting your child up for success (no matter how their brain functions), advocating for your child, and collaborating with your child’s school. This event is virtual.
Click on the titles above to register.
Medicaid Enrollment Underway
If you have Medicaid/FAMIS/CHIP health insurance, the Medicaid Enrollment Processes began in March. The Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) (Virginia Medicaid) has started to review Medicaid members’ health coverage to determine whether members are eligible for coverage. DMAS will not cancel or reduce coverage for members without asking for updated information, but they need your help to make this a smooth process. Make sure your current mailing address, email, and phone numbers are up-to-date so that important information about your coverage gets to you. Update your contact information today online at commonhelp.virginia.gov, or by calling Cover Virginia at 1-855-242-8282 or your local Department of Social Services .If you need any assistance or have any questions, contact Cover Virginia at 1-855-242-8282 or your local Department of Social Services.
Buses and Delays
If a student’s bus is delayed, parents may access the Bus Delay Notification System or use the Here Comes the Bus mobile app to receive the delayed bus report. Use code 28982 when registering for Here Comes the Bus.
PTA News
Join the PTA!
To purchase a membership or make a direct donation, please go to belvederepta.memberhub.com/store and choose your membership type (Staff $5 or Parent $10) and/or select Direct Donation to make a one-time or recurring donation. Thank you again for supporting the Belvedere PTA!
Questions or concerns? Email bespta.va@gmail.com.
Support the Belvedere PTA
Our PTA supports Belvedere in myriad ways: organizing school events, enrichment and outreach activities; providing funding for field trips, library books, and technology in the classroom; and building a school community outside the classroom.
There are several ways to support the PTA:
Upcoming Dates
- Monday, May 29 - No School (Memorial Day)
- Friday, June 16 - Last Day of School!
Keep in Touch
Daily Health Screening Questionnaire
Health and Safety Guidance Webpage
Visit the Belvedere website
Report student absences
Bus Delay Website
Follow Belvedere on Twitter
Follow our PTA on Facebook
Change your email preferences
FCPS Calendar: 2022-2023
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