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Important Upcoming Dates
September 11: Commemoration/Patriot Day - National Day of Service
September 12: T-shirt deadline for Laps for Learning registration
September 13: PTA Meeting - 6:30PM (Date Change) - Virtual
September 15: Crazy Hair Day (Achieved Laps for Learning Goal!)
September 15: Rosh Hashanah - Religious Evening Observance
September 15-October 15: National Hispanic Heritage Month
September 21: Back to School Night - 6:00PM
September 22: Woodson “Feeder Night” Football Game - 7:00PM
September 25: Yom Kippur - FCPS Schools and Office Closed
September 26-29: PAWS-itivity (Spirit) Week
September 28: Fall Picture Day
September 29: SR&R Acknowledgement/Signature Due
September 30: PTA Laps for Learning - 8:00 AM
October 4: Walk, Bike, & Roll to School Day & Principal’s Walking Club - 8:00AM
October 4: PTA Meeting - 6:30PM
October 9: No School - Staff Development Day
October 12: Advanced Academics Program Information Night - 6:00PM - Library
Overview of this Issue
New This Week
1. Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete
2. 2023-24 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools
3. Welcome New OC Team Members
4. Donate to Laps for Learning
5. September 11 National Day of Service
6. Fall Picture Day
7. Advanced Academics Program Information Night
8. Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener
9. Attendance Awareness Month
10. National Hispanic Heritage Month
11. 2023-30 FCPS Strategic Plan - Goal 3
12. Tutor.com
13. Fall for the Book's Festival
Reminders
14. Back to School Night - September 21
15. Bears in the Spotlight
16. AAP Fall Newsletter
17. 2023-24 Student Rights & Responsibilities
18. Woodson Feeder Night - September 22
19. Sign up for Fall After School PTA Clubs
20. Olde Creek Opportunity
21. Attendance Matters
22. Contacts
23. Be Informed, Stay Involved!
New This Week
1. Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete
✔️ Caregiver Checklist: Have You Completed These Important Forms?
During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:
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Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
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Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
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Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on:
- Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
- Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
- Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
- Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
- The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.
Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.
2. 2023-24 Health & Safety Guidance for Schools
Although the COVID-19 hospital transmission level (previously the COVID-19 Community Transmission level) for Fairfax County is currently low, COVID-19 cases have risen in Virginia during the last few weeks, and flu season will soon be upon us. Be sure to review FCPS Health and Safety Guidance for the best ways to prevent the spread of disease and to find out when students should stay home from school.
3. Welcome New OC Team Members
Melissa Capri, Physical Education Teacher
Hi everyone! My name is Melissa Capri, and I am super excited to be the new OCES Physical Education teacher! I am originally from Long Island, New York...” Go Giants”, and I went to college at George Mason University where I played on the GMU Women’s Lacrosse Team. In my undergraduate years, I studied physical education, kinesiology, and sports and conflict resolution. I am currently getting my master's in teaching leadership. I also coach high school Lacrosse at Lake Braddock High School and Varsity Gymnastics at South County High School. I love fitness, quality time with my friends and family, going to concerts, attending sporting events and enjoy relaxing on the beach. I am looking forward to being a part of the Olde Creek community and meeting all of the families and students! Go Bears!
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Dr. Samantha Sommer, School Psychologist
Hi all, I’m one of the new school psychologists! I’m originally from Long Island, NY. I graduated from the University of Maryland’s PhD school psychology program in May 2023. I enjoy hiking with my dog (Fiona) and horseback riding. Professionally, I’m interested in ADHD-related organization/time management challenges, trauma-informed practice, evidence-based interventions, parent consultation, and creating stronger school-home relationships. Looking forward to working with you all!
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Chelsea Neal, Special Education Teacher
Hi everyone! I am so excited to have the chance to work with each of you! In the past I have been an enhanced autism teacher and a NCE special education teacher! Most recently I have been working as a Behavior Intervention Teacher. I am excited to be back in the classroom in CSS! On the weekends I love hanging with my husband, my daughter, and Irish-doodle Tucker!
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4. Donate to Laps for Learning
Olde Creek Elementary School PTA will hold our annual fundraiser Laps for Learning on Saturday, September 30th. At this family-friendly event, we run, walk or cheer on others to raise money for our school. The run/walk begins at 8:00 a.m.
Laps for Learning is the PTA's main fundraiser. We promise we won't ask you to sell wrapping paper one month, candy the next, and candles after that. Just click here to donate and click here to register to attend Laps for Learning.
Our goal is to raise $15,000. As we get closer to that goal, our students will enjoy these fun prizes:
$2,500: Bubble Greeting for Students (Already achieved!)
$5,000: Crazy Hair Day for Students (Achieved - Save the Date: 9/15)
$7,500: Silly string Principals and Teachers
$10,000: Pie Principals in the Face
$12,500: Principals will serve lunch in the cafeteria
$15,000: Pajama Day and movie for students
$17,500: Glow Stick Dance Party
*Grades that raise $1,500 will receive a “Popsicles on the Playground” party!*
*The grade that raises the most money gets ice cream party!*
Money raised at Laps for Learning funds field trip transportation, classroom supplies for teachers, Math and Literacy Nights, and fun events, like the Halloween Howl or Sock Hop. Thank you for supporting OCES PTA!
5. September 11 - National Day of Service
With the upcoming 22nd anniversary of the tragedy of September 11, FCPS acknowledges the loss of life, the heroism of our first responders, and the resilience of our country. The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, also called Patriot Day, is a chance to reflect and act in service to others to honor those who were injured or killed in the terrorist attacks.
All FCPS students are encouraged to participate in service learning as it supports Portrait of a Graduate (POG) attributes and social and emotional learning (SEL) skills. Middle and high school students can learn more about service learning by logging into their Naviance account to access x2VOL.
Get started this fall with two great opportunities: Public Lands Day (September 23) and Volunteer Fairfax’s VolunteerFest (October 21). Information on service projects can be found on the Volunteer Fairfax website.
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6. Save the Date: Fall Picture Day
September 28th will be Olde Creek's Fall Picture Day!
Order forms will be going home next week in Friday Folders.
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7. Advanced Academics Program Information Night
Any interested parents are invited to join us on Thursday, October 12 from 6 – 7pm in the Olde Creek Library. Our Advanced Academic Resource Teacher, Wendy Stobbe, will share an overview of available Advanced Academic Programs at Olde Creek and within Fairfax County Public Schools.
8. Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener
FCPS is committed to supporting the mental wellness of all students. The Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener helps our students share their perspectives on how their schools and communities support them and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.
The screener is offered to all students in grades 3 through 12 in the fall and spring. It addresses skills like achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students.
Key updates to the screener this year include:
- Different versions for students in grades 3-5 and 6-12.
- Fewer topics with more questions to provide schools and families with more data to support planning.
- Additional questions aligned with FCPS’ commitment to educational equity.
Results are mailed home to families after each screening. Families who wish to opt their child out may do so by completing form sent home previously or the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or SIS ParentVue.
For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact us at 703-426-3100.
Please note that the SEL Screener differs from the anonymous Fairfax County Youth Survey. For more information about the Youth Survey, see the Fairfax County Youth Survey site.
9. Attendance Awareness Month
The beginning of the school year is the best time to develop strong attendance habits! Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success. Visit FCPS’ Attendance web page for tips and strategies.
As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during long breaks from school.
Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.
Read more about how families can help form good attendance habits.
10. National Hispanic Heritage Month
From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month.
Fairfax Fiesta
Fairfax County's inaugural Hispanic Heritage Celebration, the Fairfax Fiesta, is taking place on Saturday, Sept. 23, from noon to 5 p.m., at the PARC at Tysons (8508 Leesburg Pike). The free event, presented by the Fairfax County Government and Celebrate Fairfax!, aims to provide an extraordinary experience for all ages and backgrounds. Learn more about Fairfax Fiesta.
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11. 2023-30 Strategic Plan - Goal 3: Academic Growth & Excellence
FCPS’ 2023-30 strategic plan sets five main goals to create positive change in our schools. These five goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. Our equity commitment and a set of measures in each goal will measure our success.
Under Goal 3, every student will learn to use critical and creative thinking. They will meet or exceed academic goals. Students will reach their full potential.
Visit the Strategic Plan webpage for more information. Watch this video to learn more about the many voices that came together to create the plan.
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12. Tutor.com
How to Access Free Resources from Tutor.com
All FCPS students continue to have unlimited access to live, 24/7, one-on-one online tutoring services through Tutor.com at no cost to families. Student participation is optional and parents/caregivers can opt their student(s) out of accessing the services. Get more information on the Tutor.com Online Tutoring Services webpage.
Students can access Tutor.com via a link in Schoology. Additional information about how to log in and access a tutor is provided to families via the following: Elementary - How It Works and Middle & High - How It Works. Questions not answered in the posted resources may be sent to onlinetutoring@fcps.edu.
13. Fall for the Book's Festival
Check out the flyer about the Fall for the Book's Kids' Events happening on October 14th!
14. Back to School Night - September 21
Please join us for Back to School Night on Thursday, September 21. This evening, our teachers will be presenting sessions, you can meet our specialists, and hear important FCPS information on what to expect this school year. You are able to join classroom sessions in-person. We look forward to seeing you!
6:00-6:15PM - Meet our specialists in the cafeteria
6:15-6:20PM - Parents head to classrooms
6:20-6:30PM - Welcome Videos
6:30-7:00PM - Session 1
7:00-7:10PM - Welcome Videos Repeat
7:10-7:40PM - Session 2
15. Bears in the Spotlight
We are excited to announce that we will be continuing to feature students on the OC News Show in our Bears in the Spotlight segment! This is a way for students to share their hobbies and after school activities with the school community. We want to highlight all the amazing things that our students are passionate about!
To submit your student's information, please fill out the Bears in the Spotlight Google Form.
The information that you submit will be used to create a slide that will be shared on the News Show. The slide will include any photos or videos that you include as well as a description of your student's hobby/activity.
We appreciate your help in spotlighting the awesome talents and interests of our OC Bears!
16. AAP Fall Newsletter
Click here to read the Advanced Acadmics Fall Newsletter.
Fall AAP Newsletter ES (PDF) Arabic | Chinese | Farsi | Korean | Spanish | Urdu | Vietnamese
17. 2023-24 Student Rights & Responsibilities
FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities document (SR&R) explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. In late June, the School Board approved changes to the SR&R for the 2023-24 school year. Updates include a revision of dress code expectations, bystander expectations for students witnessing harmful or unsafe behaviors, bullying, and substance abuse responses. Read Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid’s letter to families regarding the SR&R.
Parents/caregivers should talk to their child(ren) about expectations for this school year. Also, please log in to SIS ParentVUE and sign to acknowledge your review of the SR&R, or sign and return the signature sheet to your child’s school by Friday, September 29.
18. Woodson Feeder Night - September 22
 For tickets, visit https://www.woodsonsports.com/
19. PTA Fall Club Flyer
Registration is now open for fall after school clubs. SACC students are welcome to participate and can return to SACC when clubs end at 4:30 p.m. Clubs will begin in October and run for eight weeks. They will include Spanish, Cooking, Sports, Chess, Drama, and Tech club. Check out the PTA's website for details about each club and registration links.
 See the below flyers for more information regarding each club offering:
Cooking Club (K-3 & 4-6)
Tech Club
Spanish Program (Full Year)
Overtime Athletics (Sports Spectacular & Flag Football/Basketball)
20. Olde Creek Opportunity
Olde Creek is looking for energetic family members, friends, grandparents, or adult siblings, who may be looking for an opportunity to join our Olde Creek Elementary staff. Olde Creek is a positive work environment, and we are ready to fill the following opportunities with members of our community. Applicants must be 18 or older.
Site-Based Substitutes
Hourly 8:00AM - 3:30PM, Monday-Friday, $24.86 per Hour
Are you or somebody you know interested in working as a substitute with FCPS? FCPS is seeking individuals to serve as substitute teachers, instructional assistants, public health training assistants, and public health attendants! We are looking for a site-based substitute to work at Olde Creek five days a week. You will find information about the application process here. Interested applicants should contact Mrs. Miller, mhmiller@fcps.edu or at 703-426-3100. Please also send your resume directly to Mrs. Miller, principal, mhmiller@fcps.edu. To sign up for an information session, please visit our substitute information page here. Please feel free to share information about this opportunity with anyone else you think may be interested.
21. Attendance Matters!
DID YOU KNOW?
- Students who attend 90% or more of the school year are more likely to graduate from high school on time.
- Starting in kindergarten, too many absences can cause children to fall behind in school.
- Missing 10 percent (or about 2 days per month) can make it harder to learn to read.
- Being late to school may lead to poor attendance.
- Students can still fall behind if they miss just a day every few weeks.
- Absences can affect the whole classroom if the teacher has to slow down learning to help children catch up.
- Absences can be a sign that a student is losing interest in school, struggling with school work, dealing with peer conflicts or facing some other potentially serious difficulty, and help is available.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
- Set a regular bedtime and morning routine.
- Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before.
- Find out what day school starts and make sure your child has the required shots.
- Introduce your child to her teachers and classmates before school starts to help her transition.
- Don’t let your child stay home unless she is truly sick. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home.
- If your child seems anxious about going to school, talk to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make her feel comfortable and excited about learning.
- Develop back-up plans for getting to school if something comes up. Call on a family member, a neighbor, or another parent.
- Avoid medical appointments and extended trips when school is in session.
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22. Contacts
Olde Creek Main Office: 703-426-3100
Olde Creek Attendance Phone Line: 703-426-3192
Olde Creek Attendance mailbox: OldeCreekElem.Attendance@fcps.edu
Technology Support for Families/Parent Help Desk: 1-833-921-3277
Parent Information Phone Lines/Support for parents who do not speak English as their first language: Parent Information Phone Lines
Parent and Student technology support: IT Support Portal
Melissa Miller, Principal, mhmiller@fcps.edu
Alison Butler, Assistant Principal, ajbutler@fcps.edu
Stephanie Kaminsky, Assistant Principal, sjkaminsky@fcps.edu
Sylvia Alverson, Administrative Assistant, sjalverson@fcps.edu
Christie Armstrong, Administrative Assistant, cparmstrong1@fcps.edu
Lizardo Santos, Student Information Assistant, LISantos@fcps.edu
Sandy McCulloch, Office Assistant, slmcculloch@fcps.edu
23. Be Informed, Stay Involved!
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