Panther Press- April 5, 2024

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

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


lady panthers

Pictured above is our Lady Panthers Running Team. They will be participating in their fun run on April 20th. 

 

Dear Panther Families,

It's been a great week at the Woods as we welcomed our students back from spring break. We kicked the week off with an assembly with Ms. Berry and Ms. Robinson where we refreshed our commitment to our Panther PRIDE pact. We also talked about how to handle conflict and being careful with our words. Students also got to hear about plans for the PRIDE awards coming at the end of the school year. We are looking forward to a wonderful fourth and final quarter. 

 

Sincerely, 

Gina O'Neal, Principal

Kristen Robinson, Assistant Principal

Christine Berry, Assistant Principal  


Monday April 8th at 4:00 is our next PTO meeting and 5:00 begins our Family Food Market. Hope to see you there! 

Family Market

solar eclipse

 

Upcoming Solar Eclipse

A solar eclipse is happening on April 8, 2024. It's a rare and exciting astronomical phenomenon and one that requires important safety reminders. Looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can permanently damage your eyes. 

Here's what you need to know:

  • Don't look at the sun without approved eyewear. This applies to students and staff, and we encourage you to reinforce this at home.
  • Regular sunglasses are not good enough. The NASA website has more information about eye safety.  
  • Eclipse timing: The eclipse starts around 2:04 p.m., peaks at 3:20 p.m. (which coincides with dismissal for our students), and ends around 4:32 p.m. Please remind your child to be especially vigilant about eye safety during dismissal. If you have concerns about your child walking or riding the bus home, please arrange for alternative transportation.

family engagement survey

Register Today for the FCPS Family Summit

Registration is open for the FCPS Family Summit, which will take place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 a.m.-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 supports 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 theme — Safe, Supported, and Included — aligns with Goal 2 of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan.


Community Forums on Middle School Start Times

Fairfax County Public Schools is exploring options for adjusting middle school start times and invites the public to be part of the process. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Please attend the event that works best for your schedule: 

Registration is not required but does help with planning. Click one of the dates above to register. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times.  


Student reading in library

Lexia Parent Night: How We Help Your Child Learn to Read

Attend a virtual information night to learn about Lexia on Tuesday, April 9, at 6:30 p.m. Participants will discover how FCPS is integrating this program into the classroom to support student literacy growth. Tips for supporting students at home will also be shared. Integrating Lexia into the literacy curriculum aligns with the Virginia Literacy Act, FCPS’ Equitable Access to Literacy, and FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3, which aims to have all students reading on level by the end of third grade. 


Arab American Heritage Month graphic.

 

April Awareness Events

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.

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

National Arab American Heritage Month - FCPS is proud to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in April. This special month provides an opportunity to recognize the remarkable history and valuable contributions of Arab Americans. 

Muslim American Heritage Month - Muslim American Heritage Month is a time for celebrating the history, contributions, culture, and an enhanced understanding of the diverse population of Muslim Americans. View the Fairfax County School Board resolution honoring Muslim American Heritage Month.

School Library Month - In FCPS libraries, students develop knowledge and skills, experience a sense of belonging, find inspiration and support, and have the ability to freely pursue their personal interests and academic growth. Watch this video to learn how FCPS librarians make a difference.

April is also Mathematics and Statistics Awareness Month and National Poetry Month.


calendar

 

April 8th- PTO Meeting (4:00), Family Food Market (5:00)

April 10th- Student Holiday (School and office closed)

April 20th- Lady Panthers Fun Run (9:00am) at MVWES


💝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 Mt Vernon Woods ES. We love our MVWES staff members, let's tell them how we feel!