|
English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو
Dear Dranesville Families,
What a wonderful week of weather we have had! I hope you were able to get outside with your children, friends, or neighbors. I personally love going for a run, walking my dogs, and sitting outside while working. The fresh air is so good for all of us. While Friday will be rainy, it looks like we are all in for a great weekend.
I have been busy the past few weeks in meetings, visiting schools, and attending various events. I absolutely delight in seeing our students actively engaged in their learning and celebrating their accomplishments outside of the classroom.
I hope that you will enjoy seeing some of the highlights below and opportunities that lie ahead for our students and families.
Robyn
In this newsletter,
Calendar Reminders
March 11- Ramadan begins
March 14- Pi Day
March 22 - End of Quarter
March 25-29 - Spring Break- No School
April 1 & 2 - School Planning Day/Teacher Work Day- Student holidays
April 8 - Solar Eclipse
|
2024-2025 FCPS School Year Calendar
Preparing for the summer months? The 2024-2025 FCPS school year calendar is available for your planning purposes. Please note the first day of school next year is August 19, 2024.
School Board Updates
Fiscal Year 2025 Advertised Budget Adopted
The School Board voted to adopt the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Advertised Budget during the February 22 Regular Meeting. The Advertised Budget prioritizes the school division’s most urgent needs, including providing employees with competitive compensation, so that each and every student has access to the world-class education they deserve. The budget is closely aligned with FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which seeks a strong academic start for our youngest students and prepares our graduates for a thriving future. Nearly 86% of the budget is focused on instruction. The School Board is scheduled to vote on the FY 2025 Approved Budget in May.
Dranesville Budget Town Hall
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors are hosting a series of FY 2025 Budget Town Hall Meetings in each district.
- Dranesville Budget Town Hall- Monday, March 18: 7pm
- Herndon HS (700 Bennett St, Herndon)-Cafeteria at Door 14
- Livestream on Facebook
To watch the March 11th Dranesville/MCA Budget Town Hall, visit the McLean Citizens Association video library or their Facebook page.
Dranesville/MCA Budget Town Hall
FCPS Budget Timeline (Dates Tentative)
- April 16: School Board Budget Presentation to Board of Supervisors
- April 16-18: FC Board of Supervisors Budget Public Hearings
- April 26: FC Board of Supervisors Budget Pre-Markup
- April 30: FC Board of Supervisors Adopts Budget, Tax Rates, and Transfers to FCPS
- May 9: Approved Budget Presented to School Board
-
May 14: School Board Budget Public Hearing
- May 23: School Board Adopts Approved Budget
- July 1: FY 2025 Begins
Bipartisan Study- Virginia Public School Divisions Less Funding per Student
 The School Board recently adopted FCPS’ FY 2025 Advertised Budget. Meeting budget needs becomes more of a challenge with underfunding by the state, using staffing formulas that continue to result in school districts not receiving the actual support needed for excellent public education. A staffing formula is the method for calculating the number of positions that need to be assigned to meet program needs.
Did You Know?
In July 2023, the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) released a study of Virginia’s K-12 funding formulas. The report found that Virginia school divisions receive less funding per student than the 50-state average, the regional average, and many of Virginia’s neighboring states including West Virginia, Maryland, and Kentucky. View FCPS’ budget development timeline.
Contact your state officials to provide feedback on funding for K-12 education.
March 8 School Board Meeting Key Votes
Sole Source Contract Amendment - The College Board
The School Board voted to approve the amendment and authorize the Division Superintendent, or the Director of the Office of Procurement Services to execute, deliver, and administer the contract on behalf of the School Board.
Elementary Language Arts Basal Instructional Resources
The School Board voted to approve the purchase of Benchmark Advance, 2022 as the basal instructional resource for elementary language arts.
Amending the School Board's Proclamation Process
The School Board voted to approve the changes to the Strategic Governance Manual.
Watch the full meeting.
Audit Buzz Newsletter
In this issue of the Audit Buzz, we highlight the key take-aways at the February Audit Committee meeting; explain about “Audit Integrity - Ensuring Audit Independence” in the Knowledge Hive; and offer a training opportunity to Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) employees. Prior editions of Audit Buzz are archived here on Office of Auditor General's (OAG) website.
|
Upcoming School Board Meetings
-
Tuesday, March 19, 10:30am: Work Session
-
Thursday, March 21, 7pm: Regular Meeting
-
Tuesday, April 2, 10:30am: Work Session
-
Thursday, April 11, 7pm: Regular Meeting
How to watch meetings and sign up to speak
 |
|
Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español
Para ver las reuniones de la Junta Escolar grabadas o para ver en vivo durante las reuniones regulares en YouTube, por favor vaya al canal de YouTube de FCPS en Español o escanee el código QR.
|
FCPS Updates
Minimize the Impact of Fentanyl and Other Drugs
A community conversation addressing the opioid crisis within Northern Virginia and Fairfax County public schools will be held Monday, March 18, 6:30-8 p.m., in the auditorium at Lake Braddock Secondary School (9200 Burke Lake Rd, Burke). All attendees will receive free REVIVE! Narcan training and learn about support services available within FCPS and Fairfax County. Language interpretation services are available as well as American Sign Language accommodation. Childcare and transportation will also be provided, as needed. Learn more about the event.
The material discussed is suitable for students in grades 6 to 12.
Take the Family Engagement Survey!
FCPS’ Family Engagement Survey is now open. Survey partner K12 Insight emailed a link to families on March 3 and again on March 6. Please participate! Your feedback is critical in helping to inform and improve FCPS practices to best support our students.
The survey is available in 10 languages. Parents/caregivers may stop by their school's front office to fill out a paper survey or complete the survey online. Please check your email for the survey invitation. Get more information on the Family Engagement Survey webpage.
Share Your Thoughts on Schoology
FCPS will be conducting voluntary, anonymous surveys on the use of Schoology from now through Friday, March 22. Surveys will be delivered to:
- Elementary students (grades 3-6) through the Schoology App Center.
- Secondary students via email from Naviance.
Student feedback will inform the school division’s use of Schoology and help improve its processes, communication, and professional learning for staff. FCPS’ Instructional Services Department will also be reaching out to families through focus groups. Please contact Schoology@fcps.edu if you have questions.
Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Continue
Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for Our Schools, Our Future – A Community Conversation. Your voice matters! Share your thoughts about FCPS and bring your questions to a conversation on:
-
Tuesday, April 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Graham Road Elementary School.
-
Tuesday, April 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at South County Middle School.
-
Thursday, May 2, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Terraset Elementary School.
-
Wednesday, May 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Hybla Valley Elementary School.
-
Thursday, May 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Poe Middle School.
-
Tuesday, May 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Katherine Johnson Middle School.
Pre-registration for a Community Conversation is not required but will help FCPS plan. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided for all events based on staff availability. Events are open to all.
Kindergarten Registration
It's that time of year again! We are currently registering rising Kindergarten students for the 24-25 school year. Please share the word with any new neighbors or families of rising kindergarten students.
Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, in the spring during March or April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child earlier helps schools plan, so they will have the teachers and resources they need for your child on the first day of school.
After determining which school their child will attend, families should prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms. All families can get support with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For more information in other languages, visit the Kindergarten Registration webpage.
Upcoming, Herndon area ES Kindergarten orientation dates:
- Aldrin ES – Tuesday, April 2, 2- 3:30 p.m.
- Clearview ES – Tuesday, April 2, 3- 5 p.m.
- Herndon ES – Thursday, April 4, 5:30 p.m.
- Hutchison ES – Thursday, May 2, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
- Coates ES – Thursday, May 2, 5-6 p.m.
- Armstrong ES – Friday, May 3, 9 a.m.
Times and dates subject to change. Dranesville ES held their orientation on March 5. Please reach out to their front office to learn more.
Apply for 2024-25 PreK and Early Head Start
FCPS PreK and Early Head Start is now accepting applications for School Year 2024-25! PreK prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children 3 years old by September 30th. Early Head Start accepts applications from pregnancy to 2 years old. Both programs are for income eligible families. Apply for FCPS PreK and Early Head Start here.
If you have questions, email: fcpsprekoffice@fcps.edu; visit the PreK office (7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church) or call: 703-208-7900.
Family Resource Center Library Named for Education Advocate, Dr. Bussey
 Fairfax County Public Schools’ Family Resource Center (FRC) has formally named its library the Dr. Larry Bussey Family and Community Library, honoring the legacy and commitment of Bussey to education and equipping families to effectively advocate for the educational rights and needs of their children. Read more here.
Click the image to learn more.
Safely View the Total Solar Eclipse- April 8
A total solar eclipse will occur on Monday, April 8, and will be viewable, depending on weather, in Fairfax County. The eclipse will begin in our area around 2:04 p.m. and end around 4:32 p.m., with the maximum eclipse occurring around 3:20 p.m.
Because the timing overlaps with dismissal, it is crucial that students understand the importance of safe viewing practices. We encourage families to review these Solar Eclipse Resources, especially the eye safety information. We hope everyone takes the opportunity to learn more about this extraordinary natural phenomenon while prioritizing safe solar viewing.
Measles Is Preventable
Measles is making headlines as the number of cases nationwide has topped 40, with three confirmed cases in people living in or traveling through the National Capital Region.
The good news is that measles is preventable through vaccination! Vaccines help teach the immune system how to defend against germs, helping to build up natural defenses. Give your child the best protection against measles with two doses of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Visit the Fairfax County Health Department’s website to find out more about measles.
Note: All students enrolling in public and private schools in Virginia are required to be adequately immunized per the Code of Virginia.
Fairfax County Immunization Clinics
 Immunization Clinic now open to all Fairfax County students who need immunizations regardless of if they have had vaccines in the past, new to the country, or those that just need a follow up to be up to date. Appointments are recommended for faster service, but not required. A limited number of walk-ins will be accepted. Call 703-246-7100 or this webpage for more information.
When Do I Keep My Child Home from School?
Up-to-date with CDC COVID recommendations
When reporting absences, please leave detailed information about symptoms (below) so schools can accurately monitor illness and take action, as needed, to prevent the spread of illness. Thank you for your support!
|
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
- The white of the eye is pink and there is a thick yellow/green discharge.
|
If there is yellow/green discharge from the white of the eye, your child must be evaluated by a healthcare provider before returning to school. If diagnosed with bacterial conjunctivitis, the child should remain home while symptomatic or until 24 hours of antibiotic treatment has been completed.
|
|
Severe Coughing
- Severe, uncontrolled, rapid coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing
|
Keep your child home and contact a health care provider. If symptoms are due to asthma, provide treatment according to your child’s Asthma Action Plan. When symptoms are controlled, send your child to school.
|
|
Diarrhea
- Frequent, loose or watery stool may mean illness but can also be caused by food and medication
|
If, in addition to diarrhea, your child acts ill, has a fever or is vomiting, please keep your child home until the diarrhea has stopped for 24 hours. If stool is bloody, if the child has abdominal pain, fever or vomiting, consult with a health care provider.
|
|
Fever
|
If your child has a fever of 100.4 or higher, keep them at home until his or her fever is below 100.4 for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication. If the fever does not go away after 2-3 days or is 102.0 or higher, consult with a health care provider.
|
|
Rash With or Without Fever
|
Keep your child home if they have a rash with a fever. If a rash spreads quickly, is not healing, or has open weeping wounds, you should keep your child at home and have your child seen by a health care provider.
|
|
Strep Throat
- Sore throat, fever, stomach ache, and red, swollen tonsils
|
Keep your child at home for the first 12 hours after an antibiotic is begun. Your child may return to school when they have completed at least 12 hours of antibiotic use, is fever free and symptoms are improving
|
|
Vomiting
- Child has vomited 2 or more times in a 24-hour period.
|
Keep your child at home until the vomiting has stopped for 24 hours. If vomiting continues, contact a healthcare provider.
|
|
COVID- 19
- Fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, loss of taste/smell, sore throat, fatigue, muscle aches, runny nose/congestion, diarrhea, nausea/ vomiting, headaches
|
Stay home until fever-free without medication for at least 24 hours and their symptoms have been improving for 24 hours.
|
Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!
This year, spring break is March 25-29. We will be eager to welcome your children back to school on Wednesday, April 3, after two teacher work days. Student attendance is very important. Every day, our teachers will be teaching, and students will be learning. Studies have shown that just two absences per month can cause students to fall behind. Let’s finish this school year strong. Visit FCPS’ website for attendance resources.
|
Community Updates
Food For Neighbors
My visit to the Food for Neighbor Red Bag event at Herndon MS
Make a Powerful, Lasting Impact: Sponsor a School
Join our "Spring Into Action" campaign and transform a teenager's life this Spring Break. In Northern Virginia, some teens worry about their next meal during this time, but by sponsoring a local middle or high school, you can change this. Your support for our Grocery Gift Card Program will serve as a lifeline to our most vulnerable students, enabling them to secure nutritious meals during their break. Email Renee at renee@foodforneighbors.org to get started!
Herndon MS Red Bag Event
Our Herndon Area of operations serves students attending Herndon MS, Herndon HS, Carson MS, Hughes MS, South Lakes HS, and Mountain View HS. At Herndon Middle, we sorted 3,397 pounds of food and toiletries donated by 274 households. At South Lakes HS, we received an additional 1,351 pounds of food and toiletries donated by 101 households.
We reached a big milestone last weekend. Throughout Arlington, Fairfax, and Loudoun counties, we collected and sorted 26,530 pounds of food and toiletries donated by 2,036 households! These generous donations will help over 7,500 students in 47 partnering schools.
Traffic Updates
495 NEXT
Please be aware that 495 NEXT construction may lead to daytime and/or nighttime closures for: 495 Inner and Outer loops; Live Oak Drive; Georgetown Pike; Lewinsville Road; Dulles Toll Road; Spring Hill Road; Dolley Madison Boulevard; and Magarity Road. Check out 495next.vdot.virginia.gov for additional information.
From the FC Police Department
2024 Regional Scholastic Art Awards
The 2024 Regional Scholastic Art Awards program has awarded Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students in grades 7-12 a total of 714 awards for outstanding artwork, including 176 Gold Key awards, 172 Silver Key awards, and 366 Honorable Mention awards. Congratulations to all the artists! Read more here.
Five works by FCPS students were nominated for the best-in-show American Visions Award including:
-
Shake It Off by Meredith Yu, Langley High School.
All-VA HS Band, Orchestra, and Choir Students
Congratulations to all the Dranesville students who were accepted into the All-Virginia Band, Choir, and Orchestra this year! In Richmond, they will participant in the All-Virginia event and perform a special concert featuring their groups in April.
VA MS All-State Honors Choir
Congratulations to those MS students who tried and were named to the Choir out of 1100 auditioners from around the Commonwealth of Virginia. The concert will be in Richmond on April 20, 2024.
2024 Student Peace Prize Awardees
Photo by Jennifer Cory
Students from 26 Fairfax County public schools have been named recipients of the 2024 Student Peace Awards of Fairfax County, designed to recognize young people who work as peacemakers. The Student Peace Awards began in 2006 to encourage people to think more about peace as both a means and an end, and to recognize young people who work as peacemakers. Every year, the HSs in Fairfax County select one junior or senior, or a group of students, whose work has promoted peace. Read more about the awardees here.
Congratulations to these Dranesville-connected school and student awardees:
- Herndon HS- Susy Reyes
- Langley HS- Lina Liakakos
- Marshall HHS- Aymar Ahmed
- McLean HS- Kaiya Williams
- Mountain View HS- Mountain View Mirror, school newspaper
- Thomas Jefferson HSST- Namaste club
- Westfield HS- Westfield Student Ambassadors
Herndon HS
Congratulations to our Herndon HS Scholastic Arts Honorees:
- Natalie Allen: honorable mention- photography
- Evelyn Del Cid-Argueta: silver key- digital art
Langley HS
McLean HS Receives First Amendment Press Freedom Award
For the ninth time, McLean High School is being recognized with the First Amendment Press Freedom Award. The award recognizes public high schools that actively support, teach and protect First Amendment rights and responsibilities of students and teachers, with an emphasis on student-run media where students make all final decisions of content. A committee with representatives from the Journalism Education Association, National Scholastic Press Association and Quill and Scroll International Honorary Society chose 28 winners nationwide for the 2024 First Amendment Press Freedom Award. West Springfield High School and Chantilly High School are also among the schools being recognized. Read more here.
McLean HS
-
MHS QuizBowl Team Wins 2024 VHSL Scholastic Bowl State Tournament- The McLean Quiz Bowl team competed in and won the 2024 VHSL Scholastic Bowl State Tournament. This is McLean’s second-ever state championship and its first since 2020.
-
Virginia Journalist of the Year Runner-up- Tanner Coerr, one of the editors-in-chief of The Highlander, was named the runner-up for the 2024 Virginia Journalist of the Year by the Virginia Association of Journalism Teachers & Advisers.
Cooper MS
Diane Liu and Iris Xie placed First and Second place (respectively) in the 2024 International Aviation Art Contest!
Herndon MS
- Principal Vereb celebrated two staff members - Elizabeth Novelo- the Herndon Pyramid's recognition for Outstanding Operational Employee and Emily Ready- the Pyramid's Outstanding New Secondary Teacher!
-
High School Musical Junior- tonight -March 16 Get your tickets here.
Longfellow MS
Congratulations to the following students for their outstanding accomplishment in the 6th Annual STEM Essay Contest sponsored by the McLean Area Branch of American Association of University Women (AAUW).
- Joshua Zeng- 1st place: Katsuko Saruhashi- A Pioneering Environmental Scientist and a Advocate for Women in Science
- Aidan Jamerson- honorable mention
- Yanling Lin- honorable mention
- Hamin Park- honorable mention
- Natalie Powell- honorable mention
Coates ES
Congratulations to our fabulous instructional assistant Salma Karrar for being recognized as the outstanding support employee for the whole Westfield pyramid! Your hard work and dedication are appreciated!
Colvin Run ES
CRES MathCounts Team achieved an impressive 4th place out of 18 schools at NOVA Chapter Competition. The event saw the enthusiastic participation of 12 Colvin Run students from our MathCounts club. On an individual level, Ian showcased exceptional talent by claiming the 3rd position in the chapter. This outstanding achievement qualifies him to advance to the MathCounts VA State Competition.
Disability Awareness Month
Throughout the United States, we celebrate March as Disability Awareness Month. Students deserve meaningful, sustained opportunities to learn. The celebration of Disability Awareness month honors these diverse and important stories. Learn more here.
National Women’s History Month
Every year, March is designated Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation. The month is set aside to honor women’s contributions in American history. Read more about Women’s History Month in National Geographic Kids.
Here are a few events in Dranesville:
Women's History Month: Saturday Storytime March 23, 10:30 - 11:30am Great Falls Library (9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls) Learn more here.
Notable Women of Herndon's Past-:Tuesday, March 26, 7 - 8 pm at the Herndon Fortnightly Library (768 Center St, Herndon). Learn more here.
Celebrating Arts in Our Schools
-
Youth Art Month encourages support for quality school art programs, and promotes art material safety. The program provides a medium for recognizing skills developed through visual arts experiences unlike any other curriculum subjects, including: problem solving; creativity; observation; and communication.
- March is the observance of Music In Our Schools Month® (MIOSM®), the time of year when music education becomes the focus of schools across the nation.
-
Theatre In Our Schools (TIOS) is a celebration of theatre in our schools and schools in our theatres.
National Nutrition Month
National Nutrition Month® is an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. During the month of March, everyone is invited to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits.
National Athletic Training Month
March is National Athletic Training Month and a time to recognize the important role certified athletic trainers play in keeping our students safe. FCPS’ 48 athletic trainers consistently go above and beyond to support our athletic programs and without question are essential members of each school’s activities program.
First Full Day of Ramadan- 3/11
This year, the first full day of Ramadan was Monday, March 11. Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year, a time for spiritual discipline for Muslims, who believe it was during this month that God revealed the first verses of the Quran to Mohammed. Read more about Ramadan in National Geographic Kids.
|
Pi Day- 3/14
From the Exploratorium Museum, every year on March 14—Albert Einstein’s birthday—number lovers can raise a piece of pie to Pi (π) Day, an international celebration of the irrational, never-ending number π, pronounced pie (3.14159...).
|
Good Friday- 3/29
Good Friday, the Friday before Easter, is the day on which Christians annually observe the commemoration of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Good Friday is a day of mourning. During special Good Friday services Christians meditate on Jesus's suffering and death on the cross, and what this means for their faith. Read more at Britannica.com.
|
Easter- 3/31
A joyful Easter to all in our community who celebrate! This year's Easter artwork was created by Falls Church High School student Dayanara M. The springtime celebration of Easter is the most important Christian holiday. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus, who sacrificed so that Christians may have life with God after death. Learn more about Easter in NatGeo Kids.
|
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.
SEPTA Awards Nominations- due 3/17
Please take a few moments to recognize the students, staff, and community members who have made a difference in your students' lives by nominating them for a Fairfax County Special Education PTA Excellence Award. Nominations are open online now through Sunday, March 17 at https://fairfaxcountysepta.org/awards/. You do not need to be a SEPTA member to nominate or be nominated!
NOVA Virtual Sessions for Seniors & Families
Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) is offering virtual information and application sessions. Information sessions will provide an overview of NOVA and the opportunities, services, and resources designed to connect high school seniors to the NOVA Nighthawk Community. Sessions are open to all FCPS seniors and their families. For questions, email admissions@nvcc.edu or call 703-323-3000.
Become Next Year's School Board Student Representative- due 3/22
Each year FCPS students have the opportunity to apply for the position of student representative to the School Board. The student representative is not a member of the School Board but serves in a nonvoting, advisory capacity by representing the interests of the students of FCPS. For more information on this role, please see FCPS Policy 1802. Written application due March 22.
Rida Karim, the current student representative to the School Board, describes the demands, expectations, and rewards of the position in this short video.
NVSWCD College Scholarship- due 4/1
The Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District (NVSWCD) is offering a $1,000 scholarship to graduating high school seniors or college freshman pursuing a degree in natural resource conservation or a related field. NVSWCD’s Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship award winner will also be submitted to the VASWCD Educational Foundation committee for review and may be eligible to receive one of four $2,000 state-wide scholarships. The deadline to apply is Monday, April 1. Learn more and apply for the Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship.
NOVA Vision 2024- 4/17, 4- 6p.m.
FCPS and Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), are offering an opportunity for students with disabilities interested in attending NOVA to learn about available options at the Annandale Campus. The orientation will include presentations from Accommodations and Accessibility Services and Counseling Services, a mock NOVA classroom experience for students, and a NOVA student panel with Q&A session. Click here to register.
FCRHA Scholarships- due 4/30
FCRHA scholarships are designed to promote postsecondary education and technical training for Fairfax County residents who live in affordable housing supported by the FCRHA. Please ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and submit all required documents All applications must be received no later than Tuesday, April 30, 2024, by 4:30 p.m. Learn more here.
Library of Congress Family Days
A new monthly series of Family Days throughout the spring and summer, will include focused programming around Women’s History Month, National Library Month and Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. In addition to special activities connected to relevant Library collections, visitors are invited to explore the various exhibitions on display in the Jefferson Building. Click here for more information.
Job Opportunities For Teens and Young Adults
MCA Summer Job Fair- March 21, 2024 4-6pm
Explore the upcoming summer job fair on March 21 at the McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean) from 4 -6pm. Various businesses will be represented including grocery stores, summer camps, retail and restaurants. Learn more at the MCA website. Learn more here.
Ongoing:
-
McLean Community Center & Old Firehouse have wonderful seasonal summer job opportunities (some over 16 and some over 18) available! We're looking to hire: Camp Counselors ; Camp Specialists; Assistant Camp Director, and Recreational/Event intern. First Aid/CPR/AED and other training will be provided. Learn more here.
-
Rec Pac Job Openings (must be over 18 years old) For Internship Credit, contact your advisor or professor for specifics on how to obtain college credit for this paid position with Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA).Learn more on how to apply here.
Summer Camps
FCPS Summer Camps and Learning Opportunities
Registration is now open for several summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.
Extended School Year (ESY) Services Program- We are excited to inform you that information regarding the Fairfax County Public School Extended School Year (ESY) services program is now available on our ESY web page.
Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA) camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School (9200 Burke Lake Rd, Burke). Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools.
- CTE programs are available for students currently in grades K-5 to explore STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math), culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing; and for students currently in grades 6-11 to explore CTE program areas, develop skills, and begin career exploration.
- IFTA and E-IFTA are weekly arts camps for students in grades 2-11. Visit the IFTA webpage or E-IFTA webpage to register.
FCPS ACE Online- They are offering classes for grades 2-12. Learn more at ACE 4 KIDS or at the ACE K12 FCPS website.
The Family Resource Center has compiled information on summer camps including local options, camps for students with special needs (sorted by need), camps for students experiencing grief, and military-connected students.
Supporting the Learning and Recreational Needs of 2e Learners During the Summer- 4/12, 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Learn about how summer can be a time for twice exceptional students to encourage the love of learning, develop talent, socialize, and reflect in this webinar. Find out about inclusive summer camps both in our local community and nationally that serve students of all abilities. Register for this event
-
Presenter: Dr. Nonye Oladimeji, FCPS Specialist for Twice Exceptional (2e) Children
Community Camps
Here is a sampling of camps for Dranesville students or around Dranesville this summer.
Value In Prevention (V.I.P.) Camps- Sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. V.I.P. summer camp encourages current or rising middle school students to develop healthy and positive recreation interests through a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. Learn more here.
Herndon MS (901 Locust St. Herndon) location will serve students from: Carson MS, Cooper MS, Herndon MS, Hughes MS, and Longfellow MS Registration Link
|
Youth Conservation Camp for HS Students- Applications are now open for Youth Conservation Camp, held July 14-20 on the Virginia Tech campus. Students in grades 9-12 are eligible to apply. Applications are due Friday, April 26. Learn more about Youth Conservation Camp, including how to obtain an application and contact NVSWCD with questions.
Fairfax County Parks Summer Camp- Spots fill up fast! See the full listing of camps, as well as multiple ways to search and tools to use that will make enrolling easier. Learn more about the camps and how to register here.
INCS Summer Camps- The Department of Neighborhood and Community Services offers a variety of summer camp options at community centers and Fairfax County Public Schools throughout Fairfax County. Learn more about the programs and find the right camp for your child by exploring the options on their website.
Rec-PAC's 6-Week Adventure for Elementary Kids- Rec-PAC (Pretty Awesome Children), operated by Fairfax County Park Authority, is a six week structured recreation program with emphasis on leisure skills designed for elementary school children. Registration opens on March 12 and closes on June 14. Learn more here.
Vienna Band Camp- At Longfellow MS, information and registration details can be found here.
Vienna Summer Strings Camp for rising 4th- 12th grader who wants to learn a string instrument or improve their skills at Thoreau Middle School. Learn more and register today!
McLean Community Center Summer Camps- Registration is now open. Check out our Summer Camp Guide including: Camp McLean; Old Firehouse Summer Camp trips; Camp Shakespeare; and weeklong camps.
McLean Project of the Arts Summer Camps- both half-day or full-day camp sessions for ages 6-13. Learn more here.
Traveling Players Ensemble- Acting Camps & Conservatories. Learn more here about Day Camps in Tysons! (grades 2-5) and Sleepaway Camps & Conservatories (grades 4-12).
Herndon Summer Camp Registration in April- Registration for our summer camps start April 3 for Town of Herndon residents and April 9 for non-residents. Don't let this opportunity slip away! Your child will have unforgettable memories and make new friends. Learn more here.
Garden Plots Available Hogge Park
Looking for a family activity? Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and cultivate your own green space? Look no further than Hogge Park, where the FC Park Authority's community garden rental program offers the perfect opportunity to nurture your gardening interests. Learn more here.
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.
Herndon Kids Fishing Derby- 3/16
Annual Kids Fishing Derby is set for Saturday, March 16, 8am-noon, at Sugarland Run. The fishing derby gives kids ages 2-15 and their families a chance to learn about fishing and to spend a fun, relaxing day catching fish. You can get all the details about the Fishing Derby here.
Diva Central- 3/16
Diva Central is Reston Community Center’s (1609-A Washington Plaza, Reston) annual prom and formal dress giveaway boutique event for MS and HS students. Everything is absolutely free, but you need to register in advance or at the door. Limit two dresses, one set of accessories and one pair of shoes per person. For more information or to register, please visit our website. Contact RCC’s Equity Partnership Director, LaTanja Snelling, at 703-390-6158 or email latanja.snelling@fairfaxcounty.gov with any questions.
The Alden's 2024 Youth Spring Production
“The Many Disguises of Robin Hood” by Brian Guehring at the Alden Theatre (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean) March 16 & 17, 2 p.m. Learn more here.
Traveling Players Ensemble- 3/16- 3/17
Two performances are happening this weekend: Dracula: A Comic Thriller and Jane Eyre. Learn more here.
Regional Science and Engineering Fair- 3/17
Members of the general public are invited to attend the Fairfax County Regional Science and Engineering Fair open house at Robinson Secondary School (5035 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax) on Sunday, March 17, 1-3pm.
FCPS Virtual Military Night- 3/20
Learn About Pathways and Opportunities
FCPS School Counseling Services is hosting a Virtual Military Night on Wednesday, March 20, 6-8 p.m. This event is designed for high school students and their families who are interested in learning more about the military pathways and opportunities. Enlistment, service academies, and ROTC pathways will be represented.
McLean Community Center Spring Fest- 3/30
March 30, 10 a.m.-noon: For ages 3-8. Free Admission Join your neighbors as we celebrate the changing of seasons with self-guided arts and crafts, entertainment and the opportunity for your children to get a photo with Bunny. Bring your camera and smartphone for photos! An MCC staff member will be on hand to take a photo of you and your family.
Purple Up! to Support Military Families- 4/17
Join our community and turn FCPS purple on Purple Up! Day, Wednesday, April 17. Wear purple in recognition of FCPS’ 14,000 enrolled military-connected students.
Stress Less Admissions with Jeff Selingo- 4/29
SCC Spring Speaker Event
Save the date! Join the Mclean Safe Community Coalition Monday, April 29 at 7pm at the MCC’s Alden Theatre (1234 Ingleside Avenue, McLean) for an evening with New York Times best-selling author and journalist, Jeff Selingo. Well-known for his years of experience monitoring and researching the higher-education industry, Jeff will share his insights on current trends in college admissions and tips on managing the process and preserving the peace. Register here.
TJ Techstravaganza- 5/18
Put the annual STEM activity for students of all ages event at TJ on your calendar. The date is Saturday, May 18, 10am- 4pm. See this flyer for more details. Register here.
|
FCPS Cares
Recognizing employees who go above and beyond
FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff and community members to recognize those who go above and beyond to help others and show they care. If so, then click here to share with everyone.
Congratulations to Herndon ES counselor, Tiffany Bryant, on her recognition as a February 2024 FCPS CARES recipient!
|
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.
© 2024 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia
|
