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 Students dressed for twin day and snow on Thursday morning.
Franklin Community,
This week was a busy one here at FMS. Snow days in the middle of the week always make things seem a little bit crazier! We were still able to conduct our Power of our Words presentations to students through advisory. We hope that students learned a valuable lesson about the way their words and actions can impact others. This program was part of our continued effort to address how students learn about, discuss, and confront issues of race, culture, and ethnicity in schools as outlined in our School Improvement and Innovation Plan. Thank you to Mr. Gomez for facilitating these meetings and giving students the tools to be upstanders and have a positive influence at Franklin!
In addition, we had another spirit week with great participation from our students and staff. We had many sets of twins on Twin Day and today the hallways were filled with red and pink. Be on the lookout for future spirit weeks organized by students in our Leadership class.
I also wanted to put a word in for our talent show, Franklin's Got Talent. It was originally going to be this week but was moved because of the uncertainty about the weather. We are so excited to see all of the talent that our students have to showcase. All are invited to attend on 2/27, at 6:30pm. We hope to see you there!
Go Falcons!
Tom DeRusso
Principal
Franklin MS
Weekly CARE Card Raffle Winners
Important Dates
February 15 - National School Resource Officer Day
February 17 - Presidents' Day - School & Offices Closed
February 18 - PTA Meeting - 6:30pm
February 27 - Franklin's Got Talent - 6:30pm
February 28 - Ramadan begins at sundown
Academic Advising
In January and February, our counselors support all students with academic advising and course requests for the 2025-2026 school year. See below for updates by grade-level and reminders about upcoming deadlines.
Rising 7th Grade Reminders:
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February 14, 2025 (deadline extended): Students will work with their 6th grade counselor to ensure course selections are entered into SIS StudentVUE by Friday, February 14, 2025.
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March 2025: Families will be able to see final course selections in ParentVUE.
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June/July 2025: End of year performance verifies course selections, including Algebra 1 Honors placement and support classes for literacy and math.
For more information, including presentations, course selection sheets, and the course catalog, please see the Franklin MS Site: https://franklinms.fcps.edu/Rising7th.
Rising 8th Grade Information:
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February 6: Students received course selection sheets in advisory and started exploring elective options for 8th grade.
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February 13: Initial Course Selections due to their Science teacher.
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February 13-19: Counselor lessons in Science classes will support students in entering their course selections into SIS StudentVUE.
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February 18-28: Students will meet with the counselors for 1:1 Academic Advising Conferences to review and finalize course selections.
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February 28: Finalized course selections are due by 4:00 pm on Friday, February 28, 2025.
The course catalog is now available, and families can explore these resources on the Franklin MS Site: https://franklinms.fcps.edu/Rising8th.
Families of 7th graders are invited to join a virtual question and answer session with our FMS counselors to clarify information about course selection. Counselors will briefly review the timeline and requirements for course selection, then turn to questions and answers by those attending.
Date: Thursday, February 13, 2025
Time: 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Even Link: Zoom Link
Rising 9th Grade Reminders:
- Initial course selections have been entered into SIS StudentVUE for all students.
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February 7 (TODAY): Final course selection is due in SIS StudentVUE. After this date, any additional requests should be emailed directly to your student’s counselor and are not guaranteed.
- February 14: Course selections will LOCK in SIS StudentVUE.
- Counselors will follow-up with students next week about any final course requests.
- More information and links to other resources are available now at https://franklinms.fcps.edu/Rising9th.
As your student navigates these processes and events, our counselors are here to support. Please reach out to your student’s counselor with any questions or concerns.
SEL Screener
The Spring Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students through Advisory during the week of March 10, 2025. Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. More information is available about the SEL Screener by accessing this link: https://www.fcps.edu/student-tests-and-assessments/student-assessment-details/social-emotional-screener
If you have any questions please reach out to our SEL Screener Lead, Kim Gallagher, or our Testing Coordinator, Kathryn Thurston.
After-School Program Information
More information on the After-School Program and schedule for next week can be found on the After-School Program website and on the Parent Schoology.
After-School Registration Form - Please use the google link to register, even if you don't anticipate your student staying After-School. Unforeseen circumstances happen, and we want to be prepared to contact you if anything arises! Buses will run Monday-Thursday. There is programming on Fridays but there are NO Late Buses. Parent pickup only by 4:35pm..
- Paper Quilling Art - Next Meeting Feb. 10 - Sign Up Open for Students
MS Sports - Spring Track
FCPS again will offer Spring Track as part of the MS Sports Program. Track is open to all students. The Spring Track season will begin on April 2 and there will be five meets from the end of April through the end of May on Saturdays.
Track & Field Interest Meeting will be held on Thursday February 27 during the Advisory Period. More information to be posted in the News You Choose and on Schoology.
MS Athletes will need the following to participate in Track for the Spring.
Students that have already turned in a physical for the Cross Country Season do not need to turn in another physical. All other information will be needed to participate in Spring Track. Any questions please reach out to Chris Tippins at WCTippins@fcps.edu.You can also visit the Franklin Cross Country/ Track Website or at the FCPS MS Sports site for more information.
SAVE THE DATE - VIP CAMP at Rocky Run
This summer FCPS Middle School After-School Program and Neighborhood & Community Services present VIP SUMMER CAMP. Rocky Run MS site will serve rising 7th and 8th graders from Franklin MS, Katherine Johnson MS, Liberty MS, Rocky Run MS and Stone MS.
VIP Camp will run from July 1-31 at Rocky Run MS and transportation will be provided.
Applications and more information coming soon!!
FRANKLIN'S GOT TALENT - Thursday February 27 at 6:30pm
Purchase Tickets Here Starting February 1 - $5.00
Does your student have a talent that they can showcase? Singing, Dancing, Comedy or some other amazing talent. Auditions will be held on Monday January 27 After-School and all that are interested in auditions must fill out the google form posted in Schoology.
Chantilly Ice Hockey Club
Chantilly Hockey is open to any experienced rising 9th grade that will be attending Chantilly HS. Please contact Kelly Morgan (kellyhmorgan@verizon.net) if you are interested in playing this spring and/or in the fall.
Health Reminders
Flu season is here, and we all want to keep our students healthy and safe. Please remind your child to practice good hygiene, such as washing their hands frequently and covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
If your child is feeling unwell, especially with flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, sore throat or body aches, we ask that you to keep them at home to rest and recover and be fever free for 24 hours without medication, before returning to school. This helps prevent the spread of illness to others.
Thank you for your support in keeping our school community healthy. If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to reach out to our clinic.
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 Did you know that more than 85% of FCPS’ budget stays in our classrooms? Currently, 92.5% of FCPS staff are school-based, more than neighboring school districts. We are in the middle of FCPS’ annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback. Learn more about the proposed FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget and see the budget timeline.
Franklin Middle School PTA
 Please consider becoming a member, volunteering is not required but always appreciated. Member funds go right back to supporting our students and staff!
Membership
https://franklinmspta.givebacks.com/store?limit=21&live=true
Stay up to date on what’s happening by following us on Facebook and signing up for E-mail reminders via our website!
Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/fmsptainchantillyva
Website
https://fms.ptboard.com/
PTA Meeting - February 18, 6:30pm
Our next FMS PTA Meeting will be held virtually on Tuesday, February 18th at 6:30pm. We will recap our budget, go over future PTA events happening at FMS, discuss the 7th and 8th Grade End of Year Celebrations, and hear school updates from Mr. DeRusso.
The 7th and 8th Grade End of Year Celebration planning usually begins next month. This event cannot happen without your help. Currently there are no committee leaders for this event. If you are interested in helping to chair or co-chair this event, please reach out to vicepresident@franklinmspta.org. The more hands that come together to help, the better!
Thank you for your support.
FMS PTA
Zoom Meeting Link: https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83955046492__;!!Pwvz7ORF!O86wZVQuNUW29Pkwpn3MhXQWpayPsZxW7s8RaAP3uenyYFVnL0qwvnsndKDCXfWZApiSxBq5LPilISlCIURDyZrX$
Join Franklin Middle School PTA's RaiseRight program and earn
Join Franklin Middle School's RaiseRight program so you don't miss out on more than $1,000+ in savings toward helping and supporting our Franklin students! How? By using gift cards to pay for everyday expenses and shopping online through RaiseRight—brands automatically give up to 20% back!
Plus, with a mobile app available and instant access to your eGift card and reload purchases, you can earn with gift cards and shop online through RaiseRight anytime, anywhere.
To get started, click here: https://www.raiseright.com/enroll/S3E2VG59SEL6
Black History Month
Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history.
Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration (Note: Date Change)
FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Carter G. Woodson High School.
The event begins with a light reception followed by a formal program, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community.
For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.
Students Invited to Share Their Voices at the 2025 Family Summit
The 2025 FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, March 15, at South Lakes High School. Visit the Family Summit webpage for more information.
At the event, FCPS students are invited to showcase projects and advocacy efforts around inclusivity in schools. This is a great resume-building opportunity, and students can earn service hours as well. Students may share their work in a share-fair environment using posters, essays, videos, songs, or art. They will interact with attendees through conversations about their work, ideas, and efforts to foster inclusivity in school communities.
Students must use this Google Form to participate by Monday, February 17. A list of possible projects is also on the form. More information will be provided after the student’s submission is received. Please contact Manuel Gomez Portillo with any questions.
February Is Career and Technical Education 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 including Business and Information Technology, Family and Consumer Sciences, Health and Medical Sciences, Marketing, Technology and Engineering Education, and Trade and Industrial Education. Since this is an elective, course offerings may vary by school. Learn more on the FCPS CTE webpage.
CTE also offers summer programs for students to explore their programs. Enroll now!
Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations
Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!
Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE.
Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!
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🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities
Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. Schools monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.
View Fairfax County’s Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips.
If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison. You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.
 ❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather
Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.
FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated.
Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.
Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities
We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.
If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.
Yearbooks on Sale Now
Don't wait to purchase your child's yearbook! Yearbooks are available for online purchase only through April 11. Secure your copy now to ensure your child doesn't miss out on this special keepsake of memories. Visit yearbookordercenter.com and use code 5330 to order today!
School Pictures are Ready
To order, log in to your account on mylifetouch.com or create an account using your student's student ID number.
All families can also log on and order a FREE Digital SmileSafe card.
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.
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