The Westbriar Weekly

Welcome to This Week’s Edition of The Westbriar Weekly!

Dear Westbriar Families,

Happy December! As we move closer to Winter Break, our school is buzzing with excitement and learning. This week’s newsletter is packed with important updates, upcoming events, and ways to stay engaged in our school community.

I encourage you to take a moment to read through and stay informed about all the wonderful things happening at WES. Thank you for your continued partnership in making our school a place where every student can SOAR!

Warm regards,
Dr. Sallie Burch
Principal, Westbriar Elementary


🎉 Congratulations to Mr. Josh Abt: WES Teacher of the Year! 🎉

We are thrilled to announce that Mr. Abt has been selected as Westbriar Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year!

Mr. Abt’s dedication to his students, innovative teaching practices, and unwavering commitment to creating a positive and engaging learning environment make him a standout educator. Whether he’s sparking curiosity through his lessons or fostering meaningful connections with students and colleagues, Mr. Abt exemplifies the heart and soul of teaching excellence.

Beyond the classroom, Mr. Abt is known for his collaborative spirit, sense of humor, and passion for helping every student achieve their full potential. His impact is felt far and wide, and his contributions to the WES community are truly invaluable.

Please join us in celebrating Mr. Abt for this well-deserved recognition. We are so proud to have him as a part of our Falcon family! 🦅

Congratulations, Mr. Abt! Your hard work and dedication inspire us all. 🌟


📢 Important Reminder: Notify Us of Changes in Residence

As we prepare for the Winter Break, we want to remind you of the importance of keeping our office informed about any changes in your family’s residence.

If your family is moving or transitioning during the break and your student(s) will not be returning to WES after the holiday, please notify our office as soon as possible. This information helps us plan effectively and ensure a smooth transition for your child.

Additionally, if there are any changes to your current residence or contact information, please share those updates with us to keep our records accurate.

You can notify the office by:

  • Calling us directly at 703-937-1700
  • Emailing irevelo@fcps.edu

Your cooperation ensures we can provide the best support for your child and continue to communicate important updates with you.


Winter Resources from Fairfax County Government Agencies

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Learn how to help these families and the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered. Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun into a handy list of events happening across the county

Learn more about the Winter Wonderland and the Holiday Train at Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park, and many more fun events.


Explore FCPS Resources: Supporting Learning and Equity

At Westbriar Elementary, we are proud to partner with our families to support students' academic growth and cultivate an inclusive school environment. To further this partnership, we want to share two valuable resources from Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) that provide insights into curriculum and equity initiatives across the district.

1. FCPS Curriculum Resources

Visit the FCPS Academics and Curriculum page for an overview of what students are learning at every grade level. This site provides essential information on:

  • Grade-specific learning objectives.
  • Subject areas such as language arts, math, science, social studies, and more.
  • Links to tools and resources that can help families support learning at home.

This resource ensures families can stay informed and engaged with their child’s academic journey.

2. Equitable Access to Rigorous Learning

Equity and inclusion are at the heart of everything we do. The Equitable Access to Rigorous Learning page highlights FCPS’s commitment to providing all students with opportunities to succeed. Learn more about:

  • Efforts to eliminate opportunity gaps.
  • Strategies to ensure every child can access rigorous and meaningful learning experiences.
  • Resources and updates on equity initiatives in our district.

By exploring these sites, families can better understand FCPS's dedication to academic excellence and equity, aligning with our mission to prepare all students for success.

We encourage you to check out these resources and join us in supporting every Westbriar Falcon to soar!


FCPS News

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

  • In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
  • Family Academy Orientation
  • Literacy Resources
  • Winter Programs and Activities

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