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.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Dear Dranesville Families:

With the end of first quarter almost upon us, it is great to see our students hard at work and already winning awards. I thoroughly enjoyed the Langley Choral concert and look forward to a few of the upcoming theatrical performances that will take place over the next few weeks.  

Congratulations to the Springhill ES community on a very successful Saturday Fall cleanup day. The grounds look amazing. Great Falls ES had a fun Fall festival on Saturday. The face painting was really great. It was fun to see all the students in costumes. A huge thank you to all the Cooper MS and Langley HS volunteers at this event.  

I was happy to join Dr. Reid at the McLean Citizens Association community conversation focused on student questions last week. Thanks to the MCA for hosting this event. Between the students and the adults in attendance, we had a wide-ranging conversation on reduction of cafeteria waste, collective bargaining, McLean HS’s spot on the renovation queue, grading, testing, the importance of the Kent Gardens/Mclean ES boundary adjustments, computer use, vaping, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and more. Thanks to everyone that showed up with questions.  

It is Principal and Administrators appreciation month, and I want to take a moment to thank these incredible professionals that run our buildings. In many schools, with the number of staff they manage and the number of academic endeavors and other activities that go on in our schools, the principals and their admin team are running small cities within our communities. Please take a minute to thank them when you visit our schools. I was happy to vote for a 2% pay raise for them and our other employees at our meeting last night.

In speaking with members of our community, I know the outbreak of violence in Israel and Gaza is weighing heavily on us. FCPS is a global community so when events happen around the world, many of us are personally impacted through our families and friends. I was thinking about how to express my feelings around this when I met an incredible young man at Great Falls Elementary School, and he asked if I would like to see his artwork to promote peace.

He very eloquently explained his rationale behind his artwork. On the top, he depicts a scene of destruction to remind us that acts like this should not happen, and we must work to be sure they don’t repeat themselves.  In the middle, he has a peace sign. This symbolizes the need for every individual to carry peace in their heart, to care for others, and to be kind. On the bottom, he has a US flag to show that if all of us in America carry peace in our hearts and are kind to one another, the United States can be an example for the rest of the world of how to keep peace across the globe.  

We all must work toward a culture of belonging, kindness, and caring in our school district and continue to be respectful and supportive of each other. Treating each other with disrespect has no place in our schools. Once again, a young person has shown me the best path forward, and we must take their lead. I am thankful every day for my opportunity to work with the young people in our community.  

May we continue to nurture our young people striving for peace,

Elaine

If you or your student are struggling with the violence in our world, families have several resources available to help support their students. The National Association of School Psychologists helps families talk with children about violence, UNICEF helps families talk with children about conflict and war, and the American Academy of Pediatrics shares How to Talk With Kids About Tragedies & Other Traumatic News Events. If your student needs additional support, please do not hesitate to reach out to the school counselor, psychologist, or social worker.

In this newsletter,

• Updates
• October is...
• School and Student News
• Opportunities
• Events

Thank you Dranesville Principals!

Happy National School Principals Month

Updates

FCPS Updates

Calendar Reminders See the complete school year calendar here. November 3- End of First Quarter- 2 hour early release November 6- Student Holiday (School Planning Day) November 7- Student Holiday (Election Day and Teacher Workday)

Dia de los Muertos and All Saints Day and All Souls Day

Día de los Muertos is an opportunity to remember and celebrate the lives of departed loved ones. Wednesday, November 1, and Thursday, November 2, are “O” Days this year. Learn more about Día de los Muertos here. While Día de los Muertos is largely celebrated in Mexico and Latin America, it also coincides with All Saints Day (November 1) and All Souls Day (November 2). These days are celebrated by Catholics, Anglicans, and some Protestants worldwide to honor those who have died and gone to heaven (All Saints Day) and those who may still be in purgatory (All Souls Day). 

Quarter End, Early Release, Student Holidays

As a reminder, Friday, November 3, is the last day of the first quarter, and a two-hour early release for students. Also, schools are closed for students on Monday, November 6, and Tuesday, November 7 for a school planning day and a teacher workday.

Election Day

Don’t forget to get out and vote on Tuesday, November 7! The day will be a holiday for students and a teacher workday. For more information, visit the Virginia Department of Elections webpage.

Daylight Saving Time Ends (Fall Back)

On Sunday, November 5, at 2 a.m., daylight saving time ends. Don’t forget to move your clocks back one hour!

Calendar Update for March 5 Presidential Primary

The Fairfax Board of Elections has requested schools to close on Tuesday, March 5, to accommodate the administration of the 2024 presidential primary election. As a result, March 5 will be a school holiday for students and a virtual School Planning Day.

2024 Graduation Dates

Here are the graduation dates for Dranesville students' high schools!

Mountain View High School will have two upcoming graduations: February 5, 2024, 5 p.m. at Centreville HS and June 3, 2024, 5 p.m. at Centreville HS.

My Great Falls ES visits

Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. To make it easier, the form is now available online in SIS ParentVUE. Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important because information from this survey results in an additional $3 million in grants each year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Step-by-step directions for accessing this form.

Help Shape the Direction of FCPS Websites

FCPS will be updating our current websites to improve user experience. Our website vendor will focus on key elements including design, layout, navigation, content, and accessibility. Please take our survey and let us know your thoughts about our websites and how well they are serving you.

The survey is anonymous, available in seven languages, and should take less than 10 minutes to complete. It will close on Wednesday, November 1. We will share the survey results later this fall. Thank you in advance for your time and feedback. If you have any questions about the survey, please email our website partner at zgrimshaw@forumone.com.

Want to Provide More In-Depth Feedback?

In addition to the Website Redesign Survey mentioned above, we are looking for volunteers to provide more in-depth feedback on the current FCPS website by participating in a usability study. This research is being conducted by our website partner, Forum One. You may participate by downloading an app on your phone or by accessing the web. If you are interested, please send an email to Sara Tetreault, stetreault@forumone.com, as soon as possible. Please note in your email what your role is at FCPS: parent/caregiver, community member, or student. 

America’s Safe Schools Week

Last week, we celebrated America's Safe Schools Week. Thank you to all our school and central office staff who work together to keep our students safe! School safety includes keeping campuses free of crime and violence, improving discipline, and increasing student attendance. Schools that are safe and free of violence, weapons and drugs are necessary to ensure the well-being of all children and the quality of their education. 

Know Our Security Terms FCPS uses specific terminology to specify the actions school staff and students should take to ensure safety in a variety of situations. It is important for staff, families, and students to understand what the different terms mean and how they impact school operations. Watch this video to learn more about the definitions of the security terms: lockdown; secure the building; and stay put, stay tuned. If students, staff, or community members have a safety concern at school (that is not an immediate emergency), they should submit a tip to the FCPS Safety Tipline. In an emergency, please call 9-1-1.

FCPS Safety Tipline

• Tipline phone number is 571-423-2020.
• Text your concerns to 888-777; keyword TIP FCPS
• Online: Quick Tip Electronic Form (through SchoolMessenger)

Click image to learn more.

 2022-23 Fairfax County Youth Survey Results

The Fairfax County Youth Survey provides insights into the behaviors and attitudes that affect the health and well-being of Fairfax County youth. Most Fairfax County students reported they feel safe at their school. Overall, the percentage of students who reported risky behaviors continued to decrease in many areas including substance use, sexual activity, and aggressive and delinquent behavior. 

Mental health indicators including feelings of sadness/hopelessness, suicidal ideations, and suicide attempts also improved noticeably compared to 2021. Students who reported the recommended amount of physical activity increased compared to the prior year as well. Read more about the report’s findings, and view the full report on the county’s website.

Protective Factors Support Healthy Habits and Positive Choices

Results from the Fairfax County Youth Survey highlight the importance of students having three or more “protective factors.” Protective factors are individual, family-based, school-based, and community-based assets (such as participating in extracurricular activities, having parents available for help, or having teachers recognize good work) that support healthy habits and positive choices. 

Survey data shows that students with at least three protective factors have a lower likelihood of reporting mental health challenges and engaging in a variety of risky behaviors, including substance and opioid abuse. These findings led to the development of the Three to Succeed program, which is being implemented division wide to educate FCPS students, families, and staff on the importance of protective factors and increasing the number of high school students with three or more of them.

Talking to Children about Traumatic Events

If you or your student are struggling with the violence in our world, families have several resources available to help support their students. The National Association of School Psychologists helps families talk with children about violence, UNICEF helps families talk with children about conflict and war, and the American Academy of Pediatrics shares How to Talk With Kids About Tragedies & Other Traumatic News Events. If your student needs additional support, please do not hesitate to reach out to the school counselor, psychologist, or social worker.

Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Information was recently posted to the Healthy Minds Blog on the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and other resources for suicide prevention.  The Healthy Minds Blog shares information related to youth mental health and wellness. Articles include tips and strategies for increasing wellness and resiliency, as well as fostering success at home, at school, and in the community. The Healthy Minds Blog is a collaborative project between Fairfax County Public Schools and the Prevention Unit of the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. Subscribe to Healthy Minds and receive a quarterly digest of articles.

Parent Information Phone Lines Available in Eight Languages

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS.

FCPS Facebook Pages in Spanish and Korean

¿Sabía usted que FCPS tiene Facebook en Español? Manténgase conectado con las últimas noticias o información importante. Síganos por Facebook Español.

페어팩스 카운티 공립학교가 지난해 한국어 페이스북 페이지를 개설했습니다.한국어 페이스북 페이지는 학교 관련 정보, 이벤트 및 교육 비디오를 한국어로 공유해 많은 한국인 학생 및 가족에게 FCPS의 소식을 전달하려 합니다. FCPS의 한국어 서비스를 받아보시려면 꼭 한국어 페이스북을 팔로우하여 주시기 바랍니다.

School Board Key Votes

Woodson High School Renaming

The School Board voted to move forward with the renaming of Woodson High School.

Watch the full meeting on the FCPS YouTube channel.

FY 2024 Revised Budget

The School Board voted to approve the revenue and expenditure adjustments.

Watch the full meeting on the FCPS YouTube channel.

FCPS Buildings Benefit All Community Members

In addition to our students and teachers, we estimate millions of visits by students and community members each year to Fairfax County public schools. Most of the public meeting and recreational facilities available in the county are FCPS facilities. FCPS works with the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services and with the Fairfax County Park Authority to ensure that school facilities and athletic fields are available to the public after school hours. The 2023 Bond Referendum will be on the ballot in November. Vote on Tuesday, November 7. 

Dr. Reid's Academic Matters: SAT Outcomes

During the Academic Matters segment of the Thursday, October 12, School Board meeting, Dr. Reid shared SAT outcomes and opportunities for FCPS students. View her slide presentation.

As in years past, the FCPS class of 2023 average score of 1181 was higher than the state average (1113) and the global average (1028). The percentage of FCPS seniors taking the SAT has also remained consistent, despite the sharp decrease in participation statewide. Read more about the class of 2023 Fairfax County SAT data.

2024 Virginia Summer Residential Governor’s Schools

The 2024 Virginia Summer Residential Governor’s Schools (SRGS) is beginning its application process. This one-month summer program is for highly motivated current 10th and 11th grade students seeking an intellectually challenging and enriching summer experience. The selection process is extremely competitive. Residential programs run from late June to late July. You are only permitted to apply to one SRGS program.

2024 Visual & Performing Arts Programs: Dance: Instrumental Music; Vocal Music; Theatre; and Visual Arts.

2024 Academic Programs: Agriculture; Humanities; Mathematics; Science & Technology; Engineering (Jefferson Lab); and Marine Science (VA Institute of Marine Science). 

For additional information please visit the VDOE and FCPS links below.

VDOE SRGS Academic and VPA website:

https://www.doe.virginia.gov/teaching-learning-assessment/specialized-instruction/governor-s-schools/summer-residential-governor-s-schools

FCPS SRGS website:

https://www.fcps.edu/academics/high-school-academics-9-12/advanced-academics/summer-residential-governors-schools-srgs

Applications for Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology Now Open

Middle school students who have an aptitude and passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are encouraged to apply for admission to the Class of 2028 at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST). 

The application is available on the TJHSST Admissions Office webpage. Applications must be started by 4 p.m. Wednesday, November 15, with a deadline to submit the application by Friday, November 17, at 4 p.m. Visit the TJHSST registration page for more information.

Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) 

Opening in December

The FAFSA is needed to determine a student's eligibility for financial aid. Families of current seniors should be thinking about completing financial aid applications in order for students to be eligible to receive financial help to cover the costs of post-secondary education. Despite the late opening of the FAFSA, there are some things families can do now to prepare. 

A funding opportunity is available for students who are unable to complete the FAFSA — the Virginia Alternative State Aid (VASA) program. Find out which aid option is right for your family on the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia website.

Healthy Eats, Bright Minds

Click image to play video.

It’s time for Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students to say farewell to processed corn dogs and sugary breakfast items, and hello to healthy global dishes, ample fresh fruit and veggies, and a program of scratch-made cooking. 

FNS is developing new scratch-made hot breakfast sandwiches and freshly made fruit and yogurt parfaits for students as they start their school day. For lunch, there will be 12 new items this fall alone. The new offerings include black bean burgers, chicken parmesan sandwiches, chicken fajitas, meatball marinara subs, fresh garden vegetable flatbread, and BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches. Offerings will also include a Veggie Wrapadilla, which was inspired by a group of Franklin Middle School students who won a school lunch recipe competition last year that was coordinated by our partners, Real Food for Kids.

“Over the coming months, we will be introducing new menu options to our schools that focus on plant-based proteins that are more inclusive of our Vegan, Vegetarian, Kosher, and Halal families,” incoming Executive Director Shaun Sawko, FCPS' Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) Sawko said. “It is important that our menus reflect the students that we serve and also that we provide as much access to fresh, locally sourced fruits and vegetables as possible in our meals.” The menu changes follow another FCPS initiative that ensured each of our schools has salad bars in their cafeteria this year. Sawko also plans to deepen relationships with local farms and producers, as the district aims to illustrate the concept of farm-to-table eating in our schools and bring scratch-cooking to all schools.

Student voice will be central to changes as well, Sawko said. In November, more than 200 students from across elementary, middle, and high schools will taste test around 30 different menu concepts at a showcase event. Read more about the new school meals here.

USDA Secretary visit to Annandale Terrace ES

Annandale Terrace Elementary School second-graders had a federal agency chief join them in the lunch line today: U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack plunked down at a round cafeteria table to bite into a chicken parmesan sandwich, recently added to FCPS’s lunch menu. Read more here.

Real Food for Kids

Real Food for Kids’ mission is to change eating behaviors and improve health outcomes for children and families in the Greater Washington Region through sustainable access to real whole foods, impactful nutrition education, and local systemic policy changes. Their Ignite Partnership focuses on the popular Kids Culinary Challenges. At the challenges, teams of students create a meal or dish that not only complies with USDA guidelines for school meals, but also is a meal that the students themselves would enjoy.

Real Assistive Technology for Everyone Conference

The 2023 Real Assistive Technology for Everyone (RATE) Conference, sponsored by Assistive Technology Services (ATS) in the Department of Special Services, will be held on Saturday, October 28, 9 a.m.-12:45 p.m., at West Springfield High School. 

The RATE Conference focuses on strategies for using assistive technology hardware, software, and peripherals to enhance learning for all students. Parents/caregivers, teachers, staff, and community members are invited to attend. Check out the conference webpage to register, and to view the conference schedule and session descriptions. 

Family Resource Center Webinars

The FRC is hosting the following events in October:

• SibsSIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!, Monday, November 6, 9 a.m. - 12pm, at Providence Community Center. Click link to join the waitlist.
• SIBTeen: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!, Monday, November 6,  from 1-4 p.m., at Providence Community Center.
• Coping Strategies for Anxiety, Depression, and Stress: Part 2, Friday, November 10, at 10 a.m.

Click the links above to register for the events. For more information, visit the Family Resource Center webpage. If you have questions, please contact the FRC via email at frc@fcps.edu or call 703-204-3941.

Audit Buzz The latest issue of Audit Buzz: Summarizes the key take-aways from the October 4 Audit Committee meeting; Provides ways to use professional skepticism in the K-12 environment; Recognizes the Audit Committee citizen members; Shares OAG’s recent events; and Offers a training opportunity to Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) employees.  Prior editions of Audit Buzz are archived on the Office of Auditor General’s website.

Upcoming School Board Meeting

• Thursday, November 9, 7:30 p.m. - Regular Meeting

Please note, times and topics are subject to change.

How to watch meetings and sign up to speak

• Regular Meetings and Work Sessions are live-streamed on the FCPS website and televised on FCPS Cable Channel 99.

• Recordings of Meetings: Work Sessions and Regular Meetings are recorded and available here after the meeting. 
• To watch School Board meetings dubbed in Spanish, you can visit the FCPS en Español YouTube channel.
• For information about signing up to speak at a regular meeting or at Public Hearings, click here.
• Latest schedule of School Board Meetings.

Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español Para ver las reuniones de Junta Escolar grabadas o para ver en vivo durante las Reuniones Ordinarias en YouTube, por favor vaya al canal de YouTube de FCPS en Español o escanee el código QR.

Community Updates

Supervisor Foust's Newsletter

Please sign up for Supervisor Foust's informative newsletter here to keep up-to-date on Dranesville and Fairfax County news and events.

National Drug Take Back Day- October 28

National Drug Take Back Day is Saturday, October 28, 10 am - 2 pm. Drop off unused or expired medications at county police stations. Permanent drop boxes will take medications any time of the year, during business hours. Accepted items: prescription and non-prescription pills, e-cigarettes and vaping devices with batteries removed, small liquid packs/pods for e-cigarettes and vaping devices, prescription ointments and medications for pets. 

Fairfax County Immunization Clinics Extended Hours Are your student's immunizations up-to-date? If not, the Fairfax County Immunization Clinics now are offering extended hours at several of their clinics for school-age children to catch up on their school-required immunizations. See the schedule and find out how to make an appointment here.

From the Fairfax County Police Department,

Lock It or Lose It Our Auto Crime Enforcement Team has seen a significant increase in stolen autos where owners are leaving the vehicle unlocked with the key/key fob and/or valet key still in the vehicle. Crews target "quiet" neighborhoods in hopes that residents will be less vigilant. These are crimes of opportunity where it only takes a moment for thieves to walk by your vehicle to check the vehicle's door handle. DO NOT BE AN EASY TARGET

Start a 9 O'clock Routine Consider starting a 9 O'clock Routine of checking to make sure all valuables are inside the house, your vehicles are locked, and all keys are in the house. It only takes a moment for thieves walking by to check your door handle and look in the vehicle. Crews target “quiet” neighborhoods where residents are less likely to be vigilant. Don’t be an easy target! If you must keep valuables in the vehicle, make sure they are hidden from plain view. Also, hide your valuables before you get to your destination. (And please, STOP leaving keys in vehicles!)

Traffic Updates

Route 7

Crews will be performing excavation and fill operations, clearing, storm pipe work, paving and other construction-related activities along eastbound and westbound Route 7 and on other neighborhood streets. Please see the Upcoming Lane Closures for October 29- November 3, 2023 and related traffic alerts.

495 NEXT 

Lane Closures & Traffic Changes Report for October 20 - 29

• I-495 North and South – Day and nighttime single lane closures
• Georgetown Pike bridge over I-495 – Daytime single lane closures
• Live Oak Drive and Balls Hill Road – Daytime flagging operations
• Westbound Dulles Toll Road – Daytime single lane closures

GW Parkway Updates

• Route 123 interchange ramp detours planned through late November
  • Crews will complete  work  at each ramp before moving to the next.
  • All work is weather dependent, and the schedule may change.

• Lane changes are prohibited from I-495 to Windy Run Bridge
• Potomac Heritage National Trail crossing under Glebe Road Bridge remains closed through October

To avoid traffic delays on the northern section of the parkway, drivers should consider alternate routes and plan for additional travel time. All lane closure hours, bridge work, and general construction information is available on our website.

October is...

• National School Principals Month
• LGBTQIA+ History Month
• National Bullying Prevention Month
• Youth Substance Use Prevention Month
• Disability History and Awareness Month
• National Dyslexia Awareness Month
• ADHD Awareness Month
• Head Start Awareness Month
• National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is National Bullying Prevention Month

To help develop a common understanding of Bullying, below is the FCPS definition. Bullying in Students Rights and Responsibilities is defined as: “Any aggressive and unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim; involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors and victim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. “Bullying” includes cyberbullying. “Bullying” does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument, or peer conflict.”

For more information on how FCPS handles a bullying situation please visit the FCPS Bullying Prevention and Intervention webpage. Our goal is to ensure all students feel safe and welcome at school. If you have questions and/or concerns about something that is going on at school, please contact the front office so that they can support you and most importantly your student. 

Cybersecurity Month & Digital Citizenship Week

October is Cybersecurity Month and Digital Citizenship Week was October 16 - 20. This year, schools were asked to make students' digital well-being a priority, help students in grades 6-12 up their game on cybersecurity, and connect families to digital inclusion & digital literacy learning opportunities.

Communication and Our Student's Digital Lives

Engaging in open and honest conversations with your children about their technology use is crucial in today's digital age, as it allows you to understand their online activities, interests, and potential risks they may encounter. By actively participating in your child's digital life, you can help them navigate the internet safely, teach them about responsible online behavior, and foster a healthy balance between screen time and other important activities. Communication builds trust, and when your children know they can talk to you about their online experiences without fear of judgment, they are more likely to seek your guidance when faced with online challenges or dangers. Visit Common Sense Media for ideas on how to talk to your children about digital well-being.

Lightspeed Parent Report on Child’s Device Activity

FCPS has tools to help parents know more about their child’s activity on any FCPS device. These tools are provided at no cost to families by Lightspeed, the school division’s internet content filtering service.

Parents may sign up for a weekly Parent Report, which will provide a list of the top sites your child visited. The report also offers parents the ability to sign up for free access to the Internet Use Parent Portal. Through the portal, parents may pause their child’s access to the internet on their FCPS device during non-school hours.

Low-Cost Internet for Eligible Students

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program to lower internet costs for families with children who have been eligible for free or reduced-price meals within the last 12 months. A qualifying household will receive $30 per month toward internet services and a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet. Check your eligibility and register at AffordableConnectivity.gov or by calling 877-384-2575.

School and Student News

Langley High School Chorus Concert

Advanced Placement Honor Roll High Schools

The College Board announced that 17 FCPS high schools have been named to the Advanced Placement (AP) School Honor Roll. Schools can earn bronze, silver, gold, or platinum distinction. Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness. Read more here.

Congratulations to these Dranesville students' schools:

• Herndon HS- Bronze Distinction School
• Langley HS- Platinum Distinction School
• McLean HS- Platinum Distinction School
• Thomas Jefferson HSST- Platinum Distinction School
• Westfield HS- Silver Distinction School

Celebrating Excellence

FCPS Excellence Awards recognize employees who have exhibited extraordinary achievement in one of four areas: Growth, Impact on Others, Innovation, and Student Achievement. There were 227 employees nominated across the individual excellence and team excellence awards. Of those, 29 individuals and 70 other employees across 12 teams were selected as recipients. These employees represent 25 schools and nine central office departments. See the full list of Excellence Awards recipients here.

2023 Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Awards

The annual awards, founded in 2001, honor county youth, coaches and parents in each magisterial district for extraordinary service in pursuing victory with honor on and off the field of competition. Instituted by the Fairfax County Athletic Council, this program aims to support the tradition of amateur athletics in cultivating teamwork, leadership, good sportsmanship and community service. Read more about the award here.

Congratulations to the Dranesville District winners!

• Female Athlete: Riley Losick, Great Falls Basketball — Basketball
• Male Athlete: Luca H. Sanchez, Langley Club & FISH Swim Team — Swimming
• Coach: Craig Cook, Great Falls Little League — Baseball/Softball
• Parent: Patricia Walker, Glory Fastpitch Softball — Softball

McLean HS

Riley Staats, Women's Softball World Cup

McLean High School sophomore Riley Staats will be helping Team USA battle for their third gold medal in the inaugural WBSC U-15 Women’s Softball World Cup. Riley is the only player from Virginia to represent Region 2 on the U-15 USA Softball Junior Women’s National Team and made her national team debut last year at the Pan American Championships in Lima, Peru. She’ll be competing in Tokyo, Japan later this month. Click here to find out where you can watch. 

Langley HS

Model UN Team

Langley's Model United Nations team competed in McLean High School’s Model United Nations competition. They won the Best Large Team Delegation award (equivalent to first place). In addition, most of our students won individual awards, including seven first place titles.

Herndon HS

Nicole Kimtis, Field Hockey Head Coach

Liberty District Coach of the Year- Congratulations to Coach Kimtis for this remarkable recognition. Herndon Field Hockey is looking forward to the playoffs under the entire coaching team, Coaches Kimtis, Runz, and Friend. 

Opportunities

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Spring Hill ES Clean Up Event

MPAartfest Children's Art Walk Art

Now On Display in Ramp Gallery

The next time you're at the McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Avenue, McLean) take a stroll up the Ramp Gallery to see the Children's Art Walk art created by area students for our recent MPAartfest. Thanks to the talented area art teachers and students and the Dominion Women's Club, for sharing their talents in creating this art and exhibition!

Herralink- Student Volunteer Opportunities

Herralink is an organization that connects high school volunteers, AKA HerraHelpers, with residents in retirement homes who may not have someone who regularly visits them. They help create connections that become family. Here is their website: https://www.herralink.com/ for more information and event details.

Congressional App Challenge

The Congressional App Challenge serves as an opportunity for high school students to be more engaged in coding in their district. Every year, Members of Congress challenge students in their districts to create and submit their original apps for a chance to win the Congressional App Challenge (CAC). Each challenge is district specific. U.S. Representatives publicly recognize their winning teams, and each winning app may be put on display in the U.S. Capitol Building for one year. Winning apps are eligible to be displayed in the US Capitol Building and featured on the House of Representatives’ website. The competition deadline is November 1, 2023 at 12 p.m. Visit https://www.congressionalappchallenge.us/students/student-registration/ for more information.

National STEM Challenge

The National STEM Challenge invites students in grades 6-12 to craft a STEM project that tackles a real-world challenge. The submission window is open through November 12, 2023. Learn more about the National STEM Challenge and how to participate.

MCC Youth Ambassadors

To assist in fulfilling its mission to provide programs of interest to area teens, the McLean Community Center (MCC) is launching a new initiative, MCC Youth Ambassadors. The purpose of the new initiative is to empower teens to collect and share their classmates’ ideas and feedback with the MCC Governing Board. For more information, visit the MCC website.

McLean and Langley high school students enrolled in 9th-12th grades, who reside in Dranesville Small District 1A, are eligible to apply for the volunteer positions. The deadline to apply is Friday, November 17. Email your completed application to Mike Fisher at michael.fisher@fairfaxcounty.gov no later than Friday, November 17, 2023. 

Student "Shark Tank" Technology Challenge

The 8th Annual Student "Shark Tank" Technology Challenge has begun, and details about this year's competition are now available online. This event is open to all high school students in Fairfax County, and participants will be tasked with developing an innovative device or app that could positively impact the lives of older adults and adults with disabilities. The initial project proposal must be submitted by December 15, 2023, while the final submissions will be due April 3, 2024. Cash prizes will be awarded by the sponsor, INTEGRITYOne Partners, and winners will be recognized by the Board of Supervisors in May 2024. Learn more here.

Drop-In Teen Center @ Tysons Corner Center

Visit Fairfax County Public Library at Tysons Corner Center! Our Teen Services team hosts Drop-In Teen Center every 1st and 3rd Wednesday from 2-6pm. Stop by and try one of our programs (including gaming, crafting, STEM and more) as well as browse our Pop-Up Library of young adult books available for check out.

Drop-In Teen Center is held in the Fairfax County Community Services Room in Tysons Corner Center (Services Room, Tysons Corner Center, 1961 Chain Bridge Rd, Tysons) on the second level outside of Nordstrom. For more information, visit our Teen Outreach page.

Speech and Debate Adult Volunteers Needed

FCPS is seeking volunteers to judge at local speech and debate tournaments. Volunteer judges are some of the most vital contributors to the speech and debate community. Without judges, tournaments will not be possible. These events are held on Saturdays, October through February at area high schools. Tournaments run from 8:15 a.m. until approximately 5 p.m. Lunch is provided by the host school.  

If you’re curious about what will be expected of you, want to know more about training and preparation, or if you have other questions, please contact Mark Deaton, coach of the Westfield High School debate team, at mdeaton@fcps.edu or 703-608-1284. Scroll to the middle of the National Speech and Debate Association page to the heading “Getting Started.” 

Events

Djembe Drumming Family Workshop- Today, October 27 

The McLean Community Center presents Master Artist Kofi Dennis Oct. 27, 7 p.m. No experience necessary. Dennis will teach participants basic drumming skills and the workshop will end with a group drum circle. Families with children (age 8+) can participate together. This is a great way to de-stress from a busy week! Drums will be provided for use. Register for the event here.

RIF Book It for Books 5K- October 28

Book It For Books, RIF of NOVA's biannual fund- and fun-raiser, will be October 28, 2023 at Bluemont Park in Arlington. Why do we host a biannual 5K/One-Mile Run/Walk? This is how we fund the majority of book purchases for the children we serve.  Additional details can be found here!

Upcoming College Access Fairfax Events

Plan to attend a virtual workshop on Paying for College or Scholarship 101. College Access Fairfax and FCPS will present a series of virtual workshops for students and their parents. To attend a workshop, please click on the appropriate Zoom link below. 

Paying for College - an overview of the financial aid process

• Saturday, October 28, 2023 at 10 a.m., ZOOM LINK

• Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 7 p.m., ZOOM LINK

Scholarship 101 - an overview of the process for applying for outside scholarships   

• Saturday, November 18, 2023 at 10 a.m., ZOOM LINK
• Tuesday, November 28, 2023 at 7 p.m., ZOOM LINK

2023 Bat Festival at Wolf Trap- October 28

Celebrate the captivating world of bats at the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts Saturday, Oct. 28, 3-6pm. Learn about their vital role in our ecosystem, discover the impact of light pollution and enjoy fun bat-themed activities for all ages. Register for this free event and learn more here.

Old Firehouse's Festival of Frights and Trunk or Treat October 28, 2023, 5 - 10pm Old Firehouse (1440 Chain Bridge Rd, McLean) Come to the Firehouse in your best Halloween costumes for a night of live music, games, food, contests and TONS of candy. Learn more about Trunk or Treat here. Families who wish to volunteer themselves and their vehicles for Trunk or Treat should submit an email request to oldfirehouse@mcleancenter.org. Please include your name and your trunk theme. Volunteer hours are 4–8:30 p.m. Each family will receive candy to distribute to the trunk or treaters. Volunteer spots are limited.

SEPTA Parent Presentation- October 30

Feeling Lost? Find Your Way When Your Child’s Needs Take You On the Road Less Traveled 

Please join the FCPS Special Education PTA (SEPTA) for a Zoom presentation on October 30, 7-9 p.m. Learn about educational planning, FCPS and community resources, strategies to monitor and maintain a smooth path forward, and more. Please go here to register and learn more.

 Life in the Community Resource Fair- Nov. 9

Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair is designed for students with developmental and intellectual disabilities who need continuing support after they exit FCPS. Learn about supported employment options, day support programs, recreation/leisure activities, residential living options, travel training supports, advocacy, funding, and more! There will also be an in-person exhibitor fair. Register for the Resource Fair here.

Thursday, November 9, 2023, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Annandale High School (4700 Medford Dr., Annandale)- Cafeteria

FCPS Cares Recognizing employees who go above and beyond Do you know a FCPS employee who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way or goes beyond what is expected? If so, then click here to share with everyone.

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.

© 2023 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

E-mail: Elaine Tholen  |  Phone: 571-423-1087

Wendy Biliter, Staff Aide, 571-423-1068, wmbiliter@fcps.edu