Weekly Newsletter 4/3/2024

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.


Wednesday, April 10- FCPS Holiday (Eid al-Fitr)

Eid Holiday


Wednesday, April 10
, is an FCPS holiday and all schools and offices will be closed.  In Islam, Eid-al-Fitr is a three day festival to mark the end of Ramadan. Muslims dress in new clothes, give charity, and pray in congregation. Eid is celebrated with the exchange of presents and delicious food with family and friends. Read more at Britannica.com. 

See the complete School Year Calendar.


Today is Paraprofessional Appreciation Day!

Paraprof. day


Wednesday, April 3rd is Paraprofessional Appreciation Day!  On this special day, we would like to express our gratitude to our incredible paraprofessionals. They are the heart and soul of our classrooms, providing invaluable support that empowers our students to thrive.

Their dedication to their job, and to our students makes a world of difference.  Their patience, creativity, and positive spirit create a nurturing environment in which our students feel valued and can reach their full potential.

Paraprofessionals- thank you for all that you do!


Key Center Spirit Wear - Deadline Extended!

T-shirt


Online ordering for our NEW spirit wear is now extended through April 5th.  Shirts are available in short sleeve, long sleeve and hoodies.  Both adult and child sizes are available.  You can order directly from our partner, Custom Ink.  Visit our web store here.


Order your Key Center Yearbook Today!

yearbook


Our yearbook team has been hard at work, diligently compiling the highlights, achievements, and special moments from throughout the year. From the first day of school to community trips, assemblies,and everything in between, our yearbook captures the spirit of our school community.  Take advantage of early bird pricing and order your yearbook today for just $10!  After April 17th, the price will increase.  Don't miss out on the chance to relive all the wonderful memories from this school year!


Updated COVID Recommendations

Covid Updates


In accordance with the updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) respiratory virus guidance, FCPS and the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) have updated school COVID-19 recommendations.

The COVID-19 isolation period of five days is no longer recommended

New respiratory virus guidance applies to respiratory viral illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Students who have symptoms of, test positive for, or have been diagnosed with a respiratory virus may return to school when the student is fever-free for 24 hours without fever reducing medication; AND the student’s symptoms have improved or resolved. 

Students should follow additional precautions as outlined per the CDC upon resumption of normal activities. 

Should I Send My Child to School?

Please refer to the chart on this attendance webpage if your child is experiencing symptoms or illnesses, and you are unsure if they should go to school. 

Thank you for helping keep our students and staff healthy.


ABA Family Training - April 17, 2024

ABA


This workshop is intended for parents of students with Autism served in preschool autism classrooms (PAC), Enhanced Autism Classrooms (EAC) and CAT B secondary classrooms.

Topics covered will include:

  • Ways you can get your child to demonstrate the same skills at home and in school
  • Strategies to get your child to do the things they do with you with other family members
  • How to promote learning and maintenance of skills across settings, materials and people.

All family members and caregivers are welcome to attend.  To register or to request an interpreter, contact Liane Sprunk at 571-423-4110 or email at lsprunk@fcps.edu at least two weeks in advance.  For questions, contact Tina Wilkerson by email at twilkerson@fcps.edu.

Join using this meeting link: https://meet.google.com/cgn-udci-kbh
10:00am - 11:30am or 7:00pm - 8:30pm


Month of the Military Child

month of military child


April is the Month of the Military Child! Every year we take the opportunity to recognize military-connected youth for their service and contribution to our community. Fairfax County Public Schools is proud to have over 14,000 military-connected youth as a part of our student body. We appreciate the varied life experiences they bring to our school community, and recognize their strength and resilience. Learn more about Month of the Military Child and FCPS’ resources for military families.


Autism Acceptance Month

Autism Acceptance Month


April is Autism Acceptance Month. One in 44 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in the United States, according to the CDC. Our schools and staff play a vital role in creating and ensuring inclusive environments that accommodate and affirm autistic students.


DSANV Spring Sprint 5K Run/Walk & Fun Fun

5K Run


Mark your calendars, lace up your running shoes and help us celebrate the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia (DSANV) with our third annual Spring Sprint 5K Run/Walk and Fun Run.

When:  April 21, 2024

Time:   5K Run/Walk starts at 8:00am          
             Fun Run starts at 9:15am

Where
: Occoquan Regional Park            
             9751 Ox Road             
             Lorton, VA  22079

Proceeds will go towards supporting DSANV’s mission to ensure all individuals with Down Syndrome and their families in the Northern Virginia area, receive the support necessary to participate in, contribute to and achieve fulfillment of the life in their communities.

Fairfax County Public Schools Students and Staff will receive Registration discount!  Please use coupon code: WDSDAY24

Register: https://potomac.enmotive.com/events/2024-dsanv-spring-sprint-5k-run-walk-fun-run

For questions and event details, please email springsprint@dsanv.org


Family Summit

Family Summit


The FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families, such as social-emotional resources, along with a specially curated online component to provide support for students with disabilities and their families. 

Some of the topics include raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. The conference is being planned by several FCPS offices in collaboration with the Fairfax Alliance of Black School Educators, Black Women’s Educational Alliance - DC Chapter, Hispanic Educators Association, and Asian Educators Association. 

This year’s theme is Safe, Supported, and Included, which aligns with Goal 2 of the FCPS Strategic Plan. More details will be available soon.


Principal Feedback Survey

survey


On Monday, March 18, Key Center School parents/guardians were sent an email containing a link to complete the online FCPS Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the VDOE-mandated Performance Evaluation Program for principals and offers parents/guardians an opportunity to provide anonymous input about various topics related to our school. These topics include how the principal demonstrates/impacts instructional leadership, school climate, management, communication and community relations, culturally responsive and equitable leadership, and professionalism within the school.

The questionnaire is open until April 5. When you receive an email from FCPS Surveys, please take a few minutes to complete the questionnaire. As principal, Ann Smith values the time you offer this important feedback tool - thank you in advance for offering your time and input.


ParentVue

sis parentvue


Did you know that you can access convenient, electronic copies of your student’s IEP, Progress Reports and more through ParentVue and the ParentVue Mobile App?  To find out more about accessing your student’s information, please, visit the ParentVue Account Overview page on the FCPS website.


Therapeutic Recreation Summer Program

summer camp


Registration for Therapeutic Recreation Summer Camp opens on April 10th.  The registration process uses their program called TRACERS.  If you do not yet have a TRACERS account, you can register at this link now so your registration process will go smoothly when it opens on the 10th.  For more information about Therapeutic Recreation Summer Programs, please refer to the flier sent home before Spring Break, or access the Therapeutic Recreation website.


Family Resource Center

Family Resource Center


Did you know that caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities? 

Learn more about FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC).

Be the first to learn about new workshops by signing up for the FRC newsletter.


Key Center PTA

PTA


Not yet a member of our PTA?  We would love to have you join!  

Key Center PTA Membership
Key Center PTA Donations
Key Center PTA Volunteer Opportunities

Any questions regarding involvement, please contact PTA President, Cecilia Allen, at KeyCtrPTA@gmail.com or (301) 646-7447.


Upcoming Dates

Dates to Remember

 
April 10           Eid al   Fitr - Holiday, No School
April 17           Purple Up! Day - wear Purple for Military Connected Families
May 3             Teacher Workday, No school for students
May 6- 10       Annual Staff Appreciation Week
May 26           Memorial Day Holiday, No School
May 30           Graduation - All students not graduating will dismiss at
                                            10:30am

2023-24 FCPS School Calendar