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Dear Whitman Middle School Families,
As we settle into the rhythm of fall, November brings us an opportunity to focus on gratitude, growth, and community. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our dedicated staff, students, and families for your continued support and commitment to making Whitman a welcoming, thriving place for all.
This month, we’re emphasizing the importance of academic responsibility and building a positive school culture. With the end of the semester approaching, it’s a great time for students to reflect on their progress and set new goals. Encourage your child to stay organized, complete assignments on time, and seek help when needed. Remember, our teachers, counselors, and staff are here to support them every step of the way.
November is also a time to give back. Volunteer initiatives are underway, and it’s inspiring to see students taking pride in helping our community. These acts of kindness not only make a difference for those in need but also strengthen the values of empathy and compassion in our students.
Thank you for your continued involvement and support. Let’s work together to make this month a successful and fulfilling one for everyone in our Whitman Middle School community.
Warm regards,
John Flowers, Principal
Each month (with the exception of December), Student Services will be hosting an attendance incentive for students. Our “Donuts for Days” incentive for September was a huge hit! For the month of October, Whitman is having a 7th vs. 8th grade “No tricks, just treats!” challenge. The grade level with the least amount of missed days at the end of October will receive a special treat! Coming up, we will have the much anticipated “Inflatable Race” for November and the “Atten-dance” in January.
Parents have a huge influence on students when it comes to attendance. Attending school regularly helps students feel better about school—and themselves. It is important for you to reinforce the idea that going to school on time, every day is important.
- Help your child maintain daily routines, such as finishing homework and getting a good night’s sleep.
- Try not to schedule dental and medical appointments during the school day. If they are necessary, please make sure they attend school before and/or after the appointment.
- Talk to your child about why going to school every day is important unless they are sick.
- Don’t let your child stay home unless they are truly sick.
- Help your teen stay engaged by asking questions about what he is learning in school, using ParentVUE to check progress on assignments, and seeking help from teachers or tutors if necessary. Make sure teachers know how to contact you.
- Get to know your child’s friends and listen when they talk about someone new, or stop talking about an old friend. Peer pressure can lead to skipping school, while students without many friends can feel isolated.
- Encourage your child to stay afterschool for academic support or involvement in clubs.
- Know the school’s attendance policy.
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Check on your student’s attendance to be sure absences are not piling up.
- If your child seems reluctant to go to school, find out why and talk to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make them feel comfortable and excited about learning. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home.
- Reach out to your child’s school counselor or social worker if you are experiencing tough times such as unstable housing, transportation or health problems.
 
 
 
The Advanced Academic Program (AAP) develops the strengths and talents of all students and offers advanced academic services at all grade levels to meet a broad range of student needs. As the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) at Whitman, some of my primary responsibilities include supporting teachers in differentiating instruction for advanced learners, supporting Twice Exceptional Learners, providing wrap around supports and services to Young Scholars, support the division wide implementation of the Honors Framework, and support our new Local Full-Time Cluster Grouping Model.
Please visit the FCPS AAP website for more information.
ATTENTION 7th Grade Families:
Whitman Middle School's Local Full-Time AAP Cluster Grouping Model Information
- Students attending the Local Full-Time AAP Cluster Group at Whitman will be grouped by their centrally eligible AA Full-Time designation in English, Science, and Social Studies.
- To join the Local Full-Time Cluster Group, students must be centrally screened and found eligible for Full-Time services. To be considered for Full-Time eligibility, submit a referral form to your AART by December 15, 2024.
- Referrals for Advanced Academic Programs Full-Time services can be initiated by parents/guardians, school staff, or the student themselves.
- Screening referral forms and any optional materials must be submitted to the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) by the posted deadline. No late submissions will be accepted.
- Eligibility is determined by the central screening committee, not by the school.
- Parents/guardians will be notified in writing of the eligibility decision and have the right to appeal within the specified timeframe.
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Reminder: Students zoned for Whitman Middle School will attend Mt. Vernon High School.
For any questions or concerns, please contact Phoebe Suarez, Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) psuarezdelre@fcps.edu.
 
Some families may be looking for additional resources to help support their child’s academic success. The Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of FCPS employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to hire as a tutor. This list is a resource offered by the FRC, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with the tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource to families.
FCPS also partners 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.
✨ FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence, reminds us of our commitment to supporting each and every student and helping them meet or exceed high academic standards.
Middle school students who have an aptitude and passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are encouraged to apply for admission to the Class of 2029 at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology.
Applications must be started by 4 p.m., Wednesday, November 13, and submitted by Friday, November 15, at 4 p.m.
 
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