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Greetings McNair Students and Families,
We have had a great start to the second quarter and continue to maximize every minute through providing rich learning experiences for our students. In addition, November is Take A Legislator to School Month. We are excited to announce that School Board Member Melanie Meren will be visiting McNair Elementary School and McNair Upper Elementary School today along with Senator Boysko and Delegate Shin. This is a fantastic opportunity to highlight the incredible work of our dedicated staff who are committed to helping our Mustangs reach their fullest potential.
Additionally, please mark your calendars for our upcoming events. We cannot wait for our Virtual Veterans Day 2nd Grade Performance on Friday, and later this month our McNair Book Fair Family Night and Storytime with Principal Watson, and our Thanksgiving Luncheon. Please be sure to contact the main office at 703-793-4800 if you are interested in volunteering at any of our upcoming events. Teamwork makes the dream work!
Below are just a couple of friendly reminders for this week:
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Virtual Veterans Day 2nd Grade Performance: We will be sharing a link soon with our school community for this special performance to honor our Veterans on Friday, November 8th at 2:20pm.
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Pumpkin Donations: We are accepting donations for medium/large sized pumpkins so that every classroom this month can participate in a special thankful and grateful activity. Your partnership in making this happen is greatly appreciated!
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Outstanding Employee Awards: Nominate our amazing staff! To submit a nomination for a McNair Elementary School Outstanding Employee, please complete the nomination through this Google form link: Click Here
Take care of yourselves and each other. We are here to support if you or your family need anything. We hope that you all have a wonderful week, Mustangs!
All the best,
Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant
Lifelong Learners Grow Here!
Please contact us with any questions!
Principal: Elizabeth Watson, evwatson@fcps.edu
Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, bmobryant@fcps.edu
Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!
It is critical to develop strong attendance habits. Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success. Visit FCPS’ Attendance web page for tips and strategies.
Last chance to nominate a McNair Elementary School Outstanding Employee!
To submit a nomination for a McNair Elementary School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form link: Click Here 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 or 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); librarians are included in this category
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 New Principal
Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district)
Outstanding Principal
Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district)
Outstanding Leader
Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal) at their current location
- Common positions in this category: Assistant and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services
Outstanding Professional Employee
Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership at their current location
- Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, After-School Specialist, MTSS Coordinator, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school, Special Education Department Chairs that teach less than 50% of their time, Reading Specialists that do not have a regular course load/do not give grades
Outstanding Operational Employee
Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee at their current location
- Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons.
The deadline to submit a nomination is Wednesday, November 6th.
If you have any questions, please contact Ann Ohr at eaohr@fcps.edu or Caitlyn Reilly at csreilly@fcps.edu.
Our teachers have been hard at work teaching with the new Language Arts curriculum, and we are excited to help all of our students become strong readers and writers! This year we also have new assessments, which is how we check if your student needs extra help with reading and writing, and new Standards of Learning (SOLs).
Because of these changes, we are now teaching all of the Language Arts skills your child needs to know (and checking if they need extra help) throughout the whole school year, instead of different skills each quarter. While these skills will be new to your child in the beginning of the year, the goal is for your child to grow strong in all of their new skills by the end of the year.
This means that when you get your child’s progress report next month, it might look different. Your child’s teacher will give you more information on the new progress reporting and how we’re making sure your child is getting any extra help they might need. You can also find more information on FCPS’ Grading and Reporting webpage.
We will also have new ways for you to help your child practice their reading and writing skills at home. These resources are coming soon!
FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.
For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, schools will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, December 4.
Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.
For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.
Need to Register for ParentVUE?
Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey.
Technical support for using ParentVUE or completing the survey online is available by submitting a Parent Support Request ticket. Select SISParent in the Application dropdown menu and type Federal Impact Aid Survey under Issue Description. Or, call the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277 (833-921-FCPS).
Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together!
Dr. Reid, Superintendent of Fairfax County Public Schools, has launched the FCPS Family Vision Group. This group brings together parents and caregivers in a meaningful way through sharing diverse perspectives to ensure that FCPS provides the best possible education experience for each and every student. The Family Vision Group also provides another opportunity to put our 2023-2030 Strategic Plan in action through meaningful communication and collaboration with families and caregivers.
By participating, parents/caregivers gain valuable knowledge and connections to become powerful partners in their child's educational journey. The group also facilitates open discussions with Dr. Reid on important topics related to student success. Bi-monthly meetings (August 2024 - May 2025) ensure consistent school representation and foster open communication through Q&A sessions, and feedback opportunities to help participants inform other families at their schools. The FCPS Family Vision Group seeks to recognize and strengthen the positive impact of community engagement on student achievement.
Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:
- Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
- Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
- Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
- Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
- Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.
If you are interested in serving as a family representative for the McNair ES community, please reach out to Principal Watson by email at evwatson@fcps.edu or by calling the main office at 703-793-4800.
Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!
We would love the help of our McNair families to stock both of our school's teacher workrooms with snacks, treats, and drinks for our hard working staff members to enjoy while they plan engaging lessons and activities for our Mustangs. |
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If you are able to do so, please consider donating something. Please click on the following link to sign-up for your donation:
Fall Snacks Sign-Up Form
Donations can be dropped off to the designated school's main office each school day between the hours of 8:00 AM-4:00 PM.
Thank you in advance for your support!
All the best,
Mrs. Goddin & Mrs. Watson
We want to emphasize the importance of safety on our school grounds and surrounding areas. One crucial aspect of this is using the designated crosswalks to safely cross Thomas Jefferson Drive. |
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We understand that it may be inconvenient to walk to the crosswalk, but not doing so puts our students at risk. By modeling responsible behavior and using the crosswalk with the crossing guard or police officer, we can create a safer environment for everyone. Please discuss the importance of crosswalk safety with your child and encourage them to always use the designated paths. Your support and partnership in this matter is greatly appreciated.
We are hoping to collect 40 large or medium-sized pumpkins so that each of our homeroom classes and specialists at McNair ES can have one for a project we will be completing during the month of November. |
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If you are able to donate a pumpkin, please fill out the very brief Google Form: Thankful & Grateful Activity Pumpkins can be dropped off at the main office no later than Wednesday, November 6th. If you have questions, please email Ms. Watson, Principal, at evwatson@fcps.edu. Thank you in advance for your help!
**Please note, McNair Upper ES will also be asking for donations as well. We appreciate all of your support for both school campuses! Please email Principal Goddin for any questions about pumpkin donations at Mcnair Upper ES at MMGoddin@fcps.edu.**
 Veterans Day provides a great reason to pause, reflect, and recognize the extraordinary sacrifices our Veterans and their families have made on our behalf, and we thank them for their service. Learn more about the history of Veterans Day at va.gov.
Our McNair second grade students have been practicing songs to celebrate and honor our Veterans. The second-grade students will participate in a performance at school on Friday, November 8th to thank all who have served. There will be an assembly for all students at 2:20pm and all Veterans are welcome to join in person. The performance will be virtual/online for parents/guardians and families where we will livestream the performance. As the performance gets closer, we will share the link for parents/guardians and families to join virtually. For the assembly, we are asking ALL second-grade students to wear a solid red, white, or blue top/shirt.
If you are a military Veteran or have military family members, we would love for you to let us know and share a picture with us by Friday, November 1st. Thank you for your support and feel free to email Ms. Rose at ajrose2@fcps.edu with any questions or pictures! If you would prefer to send in a picture with your child, please, have it labeled with your child’s name and teacher, so we are able to return it. Thank you for your partnership and support.
Our Fall Picture Retakes at McNair ES will be on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. This link will allow parents to sign up to receive updates via email regarding their child's school portraits. These updates include promotions, additional deals and the ability to order more pictures at a later time. When entering student information, parents should be sure to enter the student's name as it is on file at the school.
Elementary School Clinics
The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.
AAP November Newsletter
This month, Mrs.Janofsky and Mrs. Burg highlight Questioning and share how it is a vital skill that fosters critical thinking and curiosity. By asking
thoughtful questions, we encourage our children to explore ideas, challenge assumptions, and seek deeper understanding. Check out the latest edition of the AAP November Newsletter.
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Full Time AAP Referrals
Referrals for Full Time AAP Screening are due no later than December 15 at 11:59 p.m. This is a firm deadline, and no exceptions will be made. Please refer to this checklist for links to referral documents and submission instructions.
Referral Office Hours with Mrs. Burg
Mrs. Burg will host office hours on Zoom to answer questions and provide clarity around the Full Time AAP Screening Process. If one of these times does not work for you, please email your question directly to Mrs. Burg at kmburg@fcps.edu.
- Friday 11/8, 9am-10am
- Thursday 11/14, 12pm-1pm
- Monday 12/2 10am-11am
- Wednesday 12/11 5pm-6pm
- Friday 12/13 1pm-2pm
Use this Zoom Link to enter. Please email Mrs. Burg ahead of time if you would like translation services.
McNair Elementary School is currently hiring for a Cafeteria Hostess. If you are interested in this hourly position and would like to learn more about this opportunity, please contact Brandy O'Bryant at bmobryant@fcps.edu or at 703-793-4800.
FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.
Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?
As our community knows, teamwork makes the dream work! We are looking for parent volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering at the McNair Book Fair or at the McNair Thanksgiving Luncheon, please contact our main office at 703-793-4800.
We appreciate your ongoing partnership and support to make events like these possible for all of our Mustangs!
Get Involved with the PTA!
Join the McNair PTA today!
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The PTA supports our schools through help from our community. One way we do that is through the help of our wonderful volunteers! Whether you're available for an hour a year or an hour a week to pitch in - we have opportunities that meet everyone's busy schedule!
For more information or to apply, please reach out to our PTA at board@mcnairespta.org
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Harris Teeter Together In Education- Fundraiser
Harris Teeter’s Together In Education Program gives schools a chance to earn funds when you link your VIC card and shop Harris Teeter brands. A percentage of your purchase is donated to the school that your VIC card is linked to. There are NO LIMITS to how much a school can earn.
Instruction for Families
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Option 1: Please use the annual sign up form for the TIE program from Harris Teeter using the following link: McNair Harris Teeter
**Note: You need to re-register every year for this program.**
Option 2: You can also sign up in-person at the counter using our school code: 5090
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Taco Bamba Fundraiser is November 13th!
 Event Date: Wednesday, 13th November 2024
Be sure to mention the coupon code or the organization’s name upon ordering in-store for credit. When purchasing gift cards or ordering online through Taco Bamba’s website, guests will enter the code: GIVE20 in the coupon code area at check-out.
PTA Volunteers Needed
We need volunteers to be Event Coordinators for the following Events:
- Movie Night
- Bingo Night
- Running Event (fun run or color run)
- International Night/Cultural Fair
- Student Talent Show
- Kids vs. Adults Sports Tournament
- 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony
What Does an Event Coordinator Do?
Event Coordinators act as the main organizer and point of contact for their chosen event; lead a team of volunteers, brainstorm ideas, and make sure everything runs smoothly on the day of the event.
We're also looking for friendly Coaches and volunteers to host events like Science Olympiad Division B, ACSL, Odyssey of the Mind and Reflections.
Please click on the link to join the volunteer group:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/JZ4KRYb4mYh5N2Qt6NJOKu
PTA Reflections Update
If you've signed up for the Reflections, please have your entry ready! The submission deadline is November 13th, 2024. The PTA will share the submission process soon.
Odyssey of the Mind is Starting Soon!
Calling all problem solvers, writers, actors, scientists, engineers, project managers, artists, and creative thinkers! At OOTM, students work together to develop a solution to their chosen problem for a regional competition in March. Students will learn to work as part of a team, think creatively, learn new skills, make new friends, and have lots of fun. If you are interested, please fill out the form OOTM Interest Form 2024-25 by November 7th! (Note this does require some level of participation from the parents as coaches/co-coaches or volunteers.)
Community Resources
Buy Nothing Facebook Group Herndon: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/d5K39SGGSU2eRZQU/
PTA General Meeting
The slide deck for the general membership meeting held on October 16th can be found here: October PTA General Membership Meeting Information
Any questions? send an email toboard@mcnairespta.org
FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.
Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions at the final community conversation this fall. It will be held Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School. Click the date to register. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.
By enrolling in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core program of CTE courses is offered in every middle and high school. Based on the needs of the populations served, each school determines optional courses to be offered. Learn more about Academies and Specialized Programs. |
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Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native Americans. It is also a time to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges they have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges. |
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Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
This month reminds us that families are children's first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers. Strong family support is vital to student well-being and success. |
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FCPS has many resources designed to increase engagement and partnerships with families while fostering academic success and social-emotional growth.
Additionally, every school has a family liaison who will welcome and orient families, and help them understand the school's culture, policies, procedures, and practices. They can help connect families to resources in the community. Family liaisons might also assist a family in transitioning to a new school and encourage family-school partnerships to help ensure their student's success and healthy development.
If you have questions or would like more information, contact our McNair Elementary School Main Office at 703-793-4800 to connect with our family liaison, Selene Vargas, or visit FCPS’ website for a list of region representatives.
In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
- Calendar Reminders
- Resources for Families
- Complete Impact Aid Survey
Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.
👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!
Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!
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Mark your calendars!
As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.
November 8: Virtual 2nd Grade Veterans Day Performance (Link coming soon for families!) **This will be a school-wide assembly for students.**
November 11: All Schools Closed, Veterans Day
November 13: Fall Picture Retakes at McNair ES
November 13: PTA Fundraiser at Taco Bamba (Code: "McNair Give20")
November 18-22: The Scholastic Book Fair at McNair ES
November 20: Family Night at the Book Fair at McNair ES
November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES
November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break
December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break
2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal
Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.
Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.
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We look forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year!
#BloomingTogether #McNairCARES
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