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Dear Wolftrap Families,
As you know, I’ve been reminding families to not use Talisman Drive for drop off or pick up. Some of you may be familiar with the popular book by Jonathan Haidt, The Anxious Generation. Haidt writes about promoting independence with children by “experiences in the real world.” One of those experiences is “drive to five,” when school is too far to walk alone. He suggests, “you drop kids off with other kids at a spot that is five minutes away from school. Let them walk that last leg by themselves” (pp. 272-273). This is a great suggestion to support our Safe Routes to School initiative. If you are interested in organizing a group, please let me know, and I’m happy to support the effort! Haidt says that this can reduce traffic congestion at school, so I’m hopeful this could help us at Talisman! Let me know, and let’s work together to keep our kids safe while promoting their independence. I’ve really enjoyed reading this book, so let me know if you would like to discuss.
We are looking forward to a wonderful week!
Dr. Maggie Grove, Principal
Ms. Megan Tipton, Assistant Principal
As you all know, we are experiencing a high level of students who have been out sick. Additionally, Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:
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Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
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Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
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Clean frequently touched surfaces.
According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.
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. Please join us!
For those of you who do not know, our staffing depends on our enrollment. That is why it is important for us to make sure all students who desire to attend Wolftrap register early! Kindergarten registration is open now! Spread the word, especially if you have families in your neighborhood! There’s an easy five-step process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:
- Determine eligibility.
- Identify your local school.
- Gather documents.
- Fill out forms.
- Schedule an appointment.
After the appointment at the school (the student and one guardian must be present), the student will be ready for our spring orientation! Details to come! Read more about the registration process. For additional information, please contact Ms. Caroline Kamel, school registrar.
February 24 - 3 Hour Early Release
February 28 - *Ramadan begins at sundown (Evening-only Observance Day): Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, February 28. This day is an evening-only observance day. There is school on these days, but certain activities that cannot be made up cannot take place after school. See the complete school year calendar. Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact their child’s principal regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction.
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In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
- Flu Prevention
- Students Spread Joy
- Investing in our Classrooms
Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.
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