McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, November 19, 2024

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The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

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Greetings McNair Students and Families,

We have another exciting week of learning and growing together at McNair Elementary School! This week, we are so excited to be hosting our annual Scholastic Book Fair.  All students will have the opportunity to visit the Scholastic Book Fair in our library during school hours. Please support your child's love for reading and our school by purchasing books. There is a great selection to explore! 

In addition to our Scholastic Book Fair this week, we are hopeful that you will join us at the following events:

  • Family Night at the Book Fair & Storytime with Principal Watson: We hope that you will join us tomorrow evening from 4:30-6:00pm in the McNair ES library!  This is a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with your child and discover new books together.
  • McNair/McNair Upper ES November PTA Meeting: Following the Family Night at the Book Fair, we hope that you will also be able to attend our November PTA Meeting at McNair Elementary School from 6:30-7:30pm in the McNair ES Cafeteria. All are welcome! Your input and participation are invaluable to our school community.
  • Thanksgiving Luncheon: We are really looking forward to our annual McNair ES Thanksgiving Luncheon this Friday, November 22nd. Please see below in this newsletter for more information.  

We continue to be so grateful for your partnership. 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 


🗓️Attendance Matters

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When Should Your Child Stay Home From School?

Whether students miss school because of illness or any other reason, missing school leads to learning loss.

Help your student succeed by encouraging them to miss as few days as possible. However, do make sure your student stays home if they are sick. So when should your child stay home? Visit our site for helpful ideas regarding absences and how to work with your child and your school.

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify the McNair Elementary School main office so that assistance can be provided if needed. Keep an open line of communication with our school's public health nurse, Yasamin Asmat, and call the school as soon as you know your child will be absent and tell school staff why and for how long. Attend today, Achieve Tomorrow!

 


Thanksgiving Luncheon at McNair

Thank you to all who were able to RSVP to attend our McNair Elementary School Thanksgiving Luncheon on Friday, November 22nd.  Please see the following important information pertaining to the luncheon.

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  • Our schedule is below as well as here: schedule.docx 
  • Families can check-in at Door 1 for the luncheon. Parents/Guardians that purchased lunch will receive a ticket to go through the lunch line. Guests that did not purchase a lunch will be able to report directly to their child’s homeroom table assignment. All registered guests will receive a visitor badge.
  • Please ensure that you bring a valid ID with you to sign-in.  (Please note, photos of your identification on your telephone will not be accepted.  We ask parents to bring a valid driver’s license, passport, or identification card.)  We appreciate your support as safety is a priority.
  • Below you will find ​​​​​​​the Thanksgiving Luncheon Schedule.  Please review carefully so that you do not miss your child’s lunch time.  We do recommend arriving early to provide enough time to check-in.  When reviewing the schedule, you will notice some classes will have lunch in the cafeteria and others will enjoy their lunch in the gymnasium or even their classroom.
  • Families are welcome to shop at the McNair Scholastic Book Fair anytime from 11:00-2:00pm in the library on Friday. 
  • If you are interested in volunteering at the luncheon or at the Book Fair, please let us know!  You may contact the main office at 703-493-4800. 

We are grateful to get to spend this joyous time together with our Mustang Community!  We look forward to seeing you on Friday at the Thanksgiving Luncheon!

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Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

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).

 


Hour of Code at McNair ES

Thank you for your continued support in fostering a safe and positive online learning environment for all our Mustangs! In December, we'll be diving into the exciting world of coding when students attend Technology Lab! Students will get hands-on experience with both digital coding activities and unplugged (offline) activities to solidify their understanding.  

Digital Resources Consent Reminder: To ensure your child can access FCPS-approved digital resources for coding activities, please review this link and give your permission for your child to access safe, engaging learning websites. If you have any questions, feel free to email Ms. Perri at KAPerri@fcps.edu.

 


We Are Still Looking For One More Volunteer For The Family Vision Group!

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!

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Snacks for the McNair ES and McNair Upper Staffs!

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 


Crosswalk Safety at McNair ES

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.

 


Free Immunizations For All FCPS Students

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.

 


Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter & Important Information

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.

  • Monday 12/2 10am-11am
  • Wednesday 12/11 5pm-6pm
  • Friday 12/13 TBD

 

Use this Zoom Link to enter. Please email Mrs. Burg ahead of time if you would like translation services.

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Cafeteria Hostess Opportunity

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.

 


Tutoring Resources for Families

Is your family looking for resources to help support your child’s academic success? FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of district employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to be hired as a tutor by parents. FRC maintains this list, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource.

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, 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.

 


📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

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.

 


Volunteer at McNair!

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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!

 


PTA Updates

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Get Involved with the PTA!

Join the McNair PTA today! 

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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Our PTA Is Now on Facebook!

Please like & follow to get the latest updates.  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567288287981

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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

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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PTA Volunteers Needed

We need volunteers to be Event Coordinators for the following Events:

  • Financial Committee (3 volunteers needed!)
  • 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 PTA Reflections 2024-2025, it's time to submit your work. Just make sure to follow all the instructions. Good luck!

Submission Format: Digital 

Submissions Due Date: November 13th, 2024 

Submission Details Link: https://mcnairespta.givebacks.com/w/reflections

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Community Resources

Buy Nothing Facebook Group Herndon: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/d5K39SGGSU2eRZQU/

 

PTA General Meeting

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✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan

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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. 

 


📍Boundary Review Community Meeting

Community meetings regarding FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will take place in each of the division's six regions. You are encouraged to attend the meeting in our region, which will take place on Monday, December 2 at 6:30-8 p.m., at the Westfield High School Cafeteria

Please register in advance by clicking on the date. Language interpretation will be available. 

If you are unable to attend on this date, view the full list of meetings on the Comprehensive School Boundary Review webpage.

 


CTE Career Development Month

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.

CTE Month

Native American Heritage Month

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. 

Native American Heritage Month

Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.


National Family Engagement Month

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. 

family engagement graphic

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.

 


Happy Thanksgiving!

Schools and offices will be closed November 27-29. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Classes will resume on Monday, December 2. Learn more about the first Thanksgiving. See the complete school year calendar.

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FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

  • Veterans Day Recognitions
  • Resources on IEPs, Financial Aid, Literacy, and Community Leadership
  • Teacher Hiring Event

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today


Follow McNair on Social Media!

👍❤️ 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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Twitter   Facebook   Instagram  

 


Be Sure To Stay In Touch, McNair!

Please stay in touch with us by...


Friendly Reminders

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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 18-22: The Scholastic Book Fair at McNair ES

November 20: Family Night at the Book Fair & Storytime with the Principal at McNair ES 4:30-6:00pm

November 20: PTA November Meeting at the McNair ES Cafeteria, 6:30-8:00pm

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES (Schedule will be shared soon!)

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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