Sangster News From The Nest 10-17-24

calendar reminders

Upcoming Events

October 21 - 3 Hour Early Release

October 31 - 2 Hour Early Release

November 1 - Holiday

November 4 - School Planning

November 5 - Teacher Workday

November 6 - Picture Day


picture day

School Picture Day is Coming!

📅 Date: Wednesday, November 6, 2024

📸 Pictures Available: Approximately two weeks after photo day

🛒 Pre-order Online: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001139019#login

📧 Questions about Ordering? Email us at underclass@vosphoto.com


character day

To celebrate our school-wide love of reading, students are encouraged to dress up as a favorite book character on 

Thursday, October 31st. 

Students are encouraged to bring a book that includes the character they are representing. During the school day, they may be asked to share more about the character they’ve chosen. 

Guidelines for Book Character Costumes:

  • Characters must be age appropriate and from elementary or middle- grade level books.
  • Costumes may not involve blood or other horror-type elements.
  • No weapons of any kind or masks that cover the entire face. 
  • Costumes must allow students to take care of personal needs, sit at desks, and participate in school and classroom activities throughout the day, including appropriate shoes for PE/ recess!! 

awards

Sangster Outstanding Employee Awards

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a Sangster Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form link. You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category.)

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in one more of the criteria for that award category. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards. The eligibility requirements are below.

Outstanding Teacher  

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district)

Outstanding New Teacher

Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category

Outstanding Principal

Outstanding Leader 

Outstanding Professional Employee 

Outstanding Operational Employee

Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, Parent Liaisons

The deadline to submit a nomination is Wednesday, November 6th. 

If you have any questions, please contact Meghan Buckles at mlbuckles@fpcs.edu


impact aid

Federal Impact Aid Survey

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is eligible for federal Impact Aid grants due to the federal presence in our area. The grants from these programs will become part of FCPS' general operating budget. They are critical to ensuring that students receive an excellent education. FCPS anticipates receiving approximately $3,000,000 in Impact Aid funds.

FCPS is pleased to announce that, following the success of the electronic data collection last year, the Federal Impact Aid Survey will once again be available electronically.

The electronic version of the Federal Impact Aid Survey will open on Monday, October 21st.. An E-Notify message will go out to parents from the Impact Aid office. Parents can access the survey through their SIS ParentVue account. 

We are aiming for 100% participation, so thank you in advance!

For more information click here.


dessert on broadway

The Lake Braddock Choir is hosting their annual fundraiser concert “Dessert on Broadway” on October 29th.

The concert is a really fun one, full of Broadway songs and a dessert. There will also be a raffle and silent auction.


FNS newsletter

Breakfast is Key

  • Encourage your child to eat a balanced breakfast. A nutritious breakfast can help them focus and perform better in class. A nutritious breakfast is offered daily at your child’s school.

Smart Snacking

  • Pack healthy snacks for your child to enjoy. Fruit and vegetables, like the ones featured on our salad bars, are great in between meal snack.

Mindful Eating

  • Teach your child to eat slowly and savor their food. This can help them feel satisfied without over consumption.

Hydration is Essential

  • Encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid sugary drinks and excessive juice.

Explore New Foods

  • Encourage your child to try new foods in the cafeteria. Variety is key to a healthy diet. Review your school’s menu with your child and discuss new foods to try!

Involve Your Child in Meal Planning

  • Let your child help choose meals and snacks. This can make them more excited about healthy eating and assist during those picky eating stages.

Remember, small changes can make a big difference. By following these tips, you can help your child develop healthy eating habits that will benefit them for years to come.


Friendly Reminders!

reminders

🛑 No U-Turns & Slow Down!

U-Turns on Reservation Dr. are both illegal and very, very dangerous.  We continue to get reports of cars making these illegal U-Turns.  The safety of our school community is compromised every time someone does this. Please take the time to use Kiss-n-Ride and/or find another route to get back up to the Parkway.

Follow all posted Speed Limit signs. Going slowly by the school helps to ensure student, staff, and parent safety as everyone is coming and going. The crossing guard is there to help with the flow of traffic and guarantee all can cross safely. Follow all directions given by the police officer posted at the intersection.

Thank you!

📅 Attendance

Please remember to email or call the attendance line with any messages regarding your student's attendance. Absences and late arrivals should be reported to avoid getting a robo-call from FCPS. If you email the teacher to let them know about your student's attendance, please copy SangsterElem.Attendance@fcps.edu to ensure your message reaches our attendance staff. You can also call, 703-644-8282 to report any attendance messages. 


parent resources

FCPS Family Engagement

Math is Everywhere! Talking to Your Children about Mathematics

Join the FCPS Elementary Math Team to discuss ways to engage your children in mathematics.

During our time together we will highlight books, games, and other materials that assist you in talking about mathematics with your child throughout the
day.

Teaching math to your children doesn’t have to be intimidating. This webinar will provide concrete examples for caregivers with ideas to spark math joy.

October 18, 2024 10-11:30 A.M.

Register Online 

👋 Get to Know FCPS: Family Orientation

This interactive orientation seminar provides information about the school system, the links between family engagement and student achievement, school staff you should know, and programs and technology considerations for families. The orientation includes a discussion that is helpful for families new to the United States.

Sessions in English are held online on Tuesday, October 22, at 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, November 12, at 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, December 10, at 6 p.m.; and Thursday, December 19, at 6 p.m. Register in advance. 

Visit the Family Academy catalog page for dates this orientation will be offered in Arabic, Korean, and Spanish.

🗓️ Upcoming Events with the Family Academy

The FCPS Family Academy is where families can learn and get support for their child's school journey. As a parent or caregiver, you are an important part of your child’s education. The Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by Fairfax County Public Schools to help you support your child’s needs and learning at home. 

The Family Academy also includes information about resources available to help your student succeed. Browse Family Academy offerings.

✨ Fostering trusting partnerships with families is included in Pillar B of the FCPS Strategic Plan: Vibrant Home, School, & Community Partnerships.

Dyslexia Open House

In recognition of Dyslexia Awareness Month, Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is hosting its annual Dyslexia Open House.

Come meet members of community organizations supporting individuals with dyslexia and attend presentations by FCPS staff.  Presentation topics include Universal Design for Learning and how it supports students with dyslexia in the classroom; an introduction to dyslexia for families who are new to this journey; updates on the Elementary Language Arts curriculum; and an opportunity to ask questions of members of FCPS staff.  We hope you can join us!

When: October 28th, 2024, 5pm – 7pm

Where:

Fairfax County Public Schools

8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive

Fairfax, VA  22031

Can’t join in-person? Zoom Link

https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/98897578815

Join Community Groups:

  • DDVA
  • ACSD
  • NAACP
  • SEPTA

Adaptive Sports and Recreation

The adapted resources listed here are provided for informational purposes only. They do not reflect recommendations or endorsements by Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) or The FCPS Family Resource Center. Please contact the locations directly for fees, availability, and whether they meet your needs.

Adaptive Recreation Services and Programs PDF

Community, Sports, and Park Authority Programs

Family Community Events/Parent Interest

Cox Farms Pumpkin Patch/Fall Festival

Cox Farms - Centerville Fall Festival opens September 14

Corn Mazes in Virginia

Virginia Corn Mazes

Apple Picking – Pick Your Own

Great Country Farms Virginia

Fall Festivals

Annandale's Fall Festival 
October 19
Petting zoo, delicious food, and festive activities for all ages, adds up to an autumnal extravaganza! 

George Washington's Mount Vernon Fall Harvest Festival
October 19 - 20 
Celebrate the crisp autumn season with 18th-century activities & demonstrations at the Farm at Mount Vernon.

OmBaked Global FallFest
October 20 
Embark on a captivating exploration of distinct regions, each represented as its own autumn traditions. Treat your taste buds to an array of culinary delights and look through handcrafted treasures. 

Military Families

Our Military Kids

Our Military KidsÂŽ is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit offering extracurricular activity grants to children and teens of deployed National Guard, deployed Reserve, or post-9/11 combat wounded, ill, or injured Veterans in treatment. OMK activity grants build the children's self-confidence, enhance family wellness, and strengthen a shared sense of community.

Military Child Care

Access to childcare directly affects mission readiness, morale, and retention of defense personnel worldwide. For this reason, the Department of Defense is committed to connecting military and DoD-affiliated families to quality, affordable childcare programs. For an overview of MCC and how you can request childcare for your family, watch this short video and/or select Learn More.

National Museum of the United States Army (Fort Belvoir)

Free general admission ticket reservations are encouraged. Walk-up tickets are available. 
Up to 9 tickets per request. See Group Tickets for 10 tickets or more.

Military Family & Life Counselors

The Military and Family Life Counseling Program provides free, confidential non-medical counseling to service members, their families and survivors on or near installations. Trained to work with the military community, military and family life counselors deliver valuable counseling services, briefings and presentations to the military community.

Quantico USO

USO Quantico Fall Fest

24010 Montezuma Ave. Quantico, VA United States

🍁🎃 Fall into fun with us at the USO Quantico West Fall Festival! 🍂

Oct 25th, 2024

5:00 PM EDT

Facebook groups for local military families 

GAMS - https://www.facebook.com/groups/greateralexandriamilitaryspouses/

PCS to DC - https://www.facebook.com/groups/PCSMilitaryMovetoVirginia

Fairfax County Spouses - https://www.facebook.com/groups/2053938148258566/

Other Resources

School Liaison Office – Fort Belvoir

EFMP Military One Source

EFMP – Fort Belvoir

MWR – Fort Belvoir


spotlighthartman

Each week we will feature a new Sangster staff members in our weekly communication so our community can get to know them better.  

Welcome Ms. Hartman!



PTA

 

News from the Sangster PTA

 



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