A Message from Dr. Jemison, Fort Belvoir Primary Principal
As we leap in December, we are delighted to report robust attendance and notable academic advancements within our school community. This positive trend can be attributed to the unwavering commitment of both students and educators to prioritize consistent attendance. Currently maintaining absenteeism below 20%, we are optimistic about sustaining this commendable level throughout the month. Emphasizing the crucial link between regular school attendance and academic success, research consistently underscores that students with high attendance records tend to achieve greater success not only in their academic endeavors but also in their future careers. THis reinforces the importance of daily school attendance in cultivating a foundation for lifelong learning and achievement.
Together we are Fort Belvoir strong!
In partnership,
Dr. LaZedrick (Zed) Jemison, Principal
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December 11 - 15: Winter Spirit Weeks (see flyer below)
December 18 - January 1: Winter Break
Office/School Closed
Classes will resume on Tuesday, January 2.
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First Grade Music Winter Concert
 The first-grade Winter Concert was a joyous and memorable event. The continuous dedication efforts of our outstanding music teachers, Ms. Maguire and Ms. Schmitt, were evident in the fantastic performance of our talented students. This musical experience will undoubtedly be cherished by our performers, creating lasting memories. We extend heartfelt appreciation to the parents and teachers whose support played a crucial role in making this event a success. The unity of our school community was truly reflected in the festive celebration of music and talent.
Fort Belvoir Primary First Friends!
Fort Belvoir Primary recently organized its inaugural First Friend luncheon, a heartwarming initiative aimed at supporting students who are new not only to the school but also the Fort Belvoir military installation base. With a welcoming embrace, the school has received 41 new students just within the past two months, recognizing the inherent challenges of transitions for families, especially in the military context. To ease this process, the school introduced the First Friends ambassadors - a selective group of second graders who share lunches with the newcomers, fostering organic connections and friendships. This initiative serves as a source of comfort, as these young ambassadors, being military children themselves, understand the unique challenges of such a lifestyle, creating a bond that is truly an honorable and exclusive aspect of their lives.
Spring 2024 Kids Lab Registration Will Open SOON!!
This year’s Fort Belvoir Kids Lab program will start on January 17th and end on March 20th. There will be no class on March 6, 2024. We are inviting everyone to enroll their child(ren) to participate in the program, starting on Friday, December 8th, 2023 at 8:00 PM.
Families can click on this link: https://forms.gle/R9yShHKK8DAQRAej8 to register. This program is being offered through our STEAM Grants from the DoDEA.
It is going to be fun, STEAM focused, and hands-on activities every Wednesday afterschool for grades K-6. Buses will be available for all villages. Parent/Guardian pickup will take place for each student in their current school’s cafeteria at 5:25PM.
Spaces are limited, and enrollment will not guarantee your child’s space in the program, so don’t let this opportunity pass you by! Registration will close on Tuesday, December 12th, 2023, at 4:30 PM, or when all classes are full.
Programming is absolutely free of charge to all Fort Belvoir Elementary students, thanks to our DoDEA Grants!
Fort Belvoir PTO
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We are incredibly fortunate to boast an exceptional PTO board at Fort Belvoir, led by the dedicated Donna Perkins as president and Amber Palmore as vice president. The outstanding commitment of these individuals has brought about numerous wonderful initiatives on our campus, benefiting our children immensely. |
Events such as the Fun Run, movie nights, popcorn Fridays, and many more have become possible thanks to the hard work and passion for our PTO members. As a community, we encourage everyone to actively support these initiatives, where by attending the events or volunteering to assist with preparations. Given the size of our campus, the collective effort of each member is crucial in ensuring that both students and families enjoy an extraordinary experience.
Generous Donation for Fort Belvoir Families
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to General Dynamics for their generous donations to both Fort Belvoir Elementary Schools. Their contribution will make a significant impact on our community, allowing us to purchase gift cards for families in need of additional support during the holiday season. If you are a family experiencing hardship and could benefit from this assistance, we encourage you to reach out to our dedicated Social Worker, Mrs. Idlet, or our Family Liaison, Mrs. Elliott. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to ensure that everyone in our school community can experience the warmth and joy of the holidays.
Fort Belvoir Watch Dogs
Thriving Reading Culture of Books
Calling all Dads and fatherly figures! We are inviting you to join our Watch Dog group, a dedicated team supporting our school community. This group plays a crucial role in managing our Kiss & Ride line on Wednesday mornings and afternoons, ensuring a smooth and safe transition for students. Additionally, Watch Dogs provide valuable academic support in the classrooms, becoming positive male role models for students who may lack such influences in their lives due to various circumstances, such as deployment or absence of a male figure. Your willingness to contribute your time and positive energy is the only requirement.
Help make a difference in the lives of our students by becoming a part of this impactful group. If interested, please contact the front office for additional information.
Fort Belvoir Primary Toy Swap
 We are thrilled to announce our upcoming toy swap event at Fort Belvoir Primary next week! Families, don’t miss the chance to participate in this exciting opportunity. Whether you’re looking to pick up a new toy or contribute by donating one, your involvement is greatly appreciated. This event is proudly sponsored by our Fort Belvoir Ambassadors, and we invite everyone to join us and make this toy swap a memorable and joyful experience for all. Come and be a part of this wonderful community initiative!
Fun Moments at Fort Belvoir Primary!
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Notes from the Advance Academic Resource Teacher
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Full-Time (Level IV) AAP Services
Some advanced learners need a full-time advanced academic program with differentiated instruction in all four core content areas (language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science). Students eligible for full-time AAP services are cluster grouped on a full-time basis and receive:
- Full-time use of materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework in language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, and
- Curriculum that is differentiated through acceleration, depth, and complexity of content.
Full-time services continue through Grade 8. Students do not need to be evaluated each year.
Full-Time (Level IV) AAP Referral and Deadline
Parent referrals to be considered for Full Time AAP (Level IV) services for the 2023-2024 school year for current students in grades 2-6 are due no later than December 15.
Link to Full-Time (Level IV) AAP Referral: https://www.fcps.edu/system/files/forms/2023-08/aap-fulltimeservicesreferralform-english.pdf
Referrals will not be accepted after the deadline. Referral forms must be submitted as an attachment via email to:
Dorothy Stafford
Fort Belvoir Primary
dlstafford@fcps.edu
Message from our Family Liaison, Ms. Elliott
Snow Days This Winter
For the current school year, FCPS will be returning to its previous procedure for snow days — there will be no virtual learning days when school is closed due to bad weather.
During snow days, students may still access Tutor.com, complete any supplemental learning opportunities recommended by their teachers, and view educational programming (available virtually and on public access television channels):
Eleven snow days are built into the existing FCPS calendar. Eliminating virtual learning days will allow us to maximize students’ in-person learning and provide equitable access to instruction and student services.
Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!
We often notice more empty seats in our classrooms as winter break approaches. This year, let's work together to nurture a rock-solid attendance habit. Every hour of every school day is a unique opportunity for students to learn, connect, and grow.
A big thank you to:
- 🌟 Students who show up every day and the parents/caregivers supporting them.
- 👩🏫 Teachers who create a welcoming environment for learning.
- 👨💼 Administrators providing a safe and engaging place to grow.
- 👏 Bus drivers, support staff, and volunteers lending a helping hand to all our learners.
If you or your child need support, please reach out to our school social worker or family liaison. If your child is not feeling well, please refer to the When Should I Keep My Child Home? webpage for guidance.
There will be no school from Monday, December 18, to Monday, January 1, 2024, for winter break. Classes will resume on Tuesday, January 2.
Visit FCPS’ website for more attendance resources.
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. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees at Fort Belvoir Primary ES. We love our Primary staff members, let's tell them how we feel!
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