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Dear WMES Families,
We hope you are having a wonderful week! As always, we are grateful for your partnership in creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment for our students. Here are some important updates and reminders for the coming weeks.
We appreciate your partnership in making WMES a great place to learn and grow.
With gratitude,
Brad Bennink
Principal, Washington Mill Elementary
đź“ž 703-619-2500
Celebrating President’s Day at WMES
This past week, our students engaged in meaningful activities to recognize Presidents Day and reflect on the contributions of past U.S. presidents. Many classrooms incorporated discussions, readings, and interactive lessons to help students learn about the role of the presidency and its impact on our country.
Our 4th graders took an exciting field trip to "The People’s House: A White House Experience" in Washington, D.C. This immersive museum, created by the White House Historical Association, brings the history of the Executive Mansion and its leaders to life through interactive exhibits, a full-scale replica of the Oval Office, and engaging historical displays.
Our Kindergarten through 6th-grade students explore presidential history throughout the year as part of their curriculum. From learning about Presidents’ Day in Kindergarten, to studying the job of the President in 2nd grade, and examining Abraham Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War in 5th grade, our students develop a deeper understanding of the presidency and its influence on our nation.
We appreciate our teachers for making history come alive and encourage families to continue these discussions at home—fostering an understanding of leadership, civic responsibility, and the lasting impact of our nation’s presidents!
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Celebrating Black History at WMES
Throughout February, our students have been engaging in meaningful learning experiences celebrating Black history, culture, and contributions. A special thank you to our art teachers and wellness committee for organizing the Black History Cultures & Contributions in Color Gallery. This student artwork showcase beautifully highlights Black history through creativity and learning.
đź“… Final Gallery Viewing: The exhibit will remain open for classes and families through February 28. We encourage you to ask your child about their favorite pieces!
Supporting Positive Student Behavior
At WMES, we are committed to creating a positive and structured learning environment for all students. Our school-wide behavior framework ensures that students feel safe, supported, and empowered to make positive choices. Key components include:
âś” Responsive Classroom (RC) practices
âś” Consistent routines and procedures in every classroom
âś” Zones of Regulation to help students manage emotions
âś” Counseling lessons & mediation supports
âś” Supervision and structured recess zones for student safety
While we strive to teach and reinforce positive behaviors, we also recognize that students will sometimes make mistakes. When this happens, we focus on fair, supportive, and restorative consequences that provide clear boundaries while helping students grow from their experiences. Thank you for your continued support in reinforcing these expectations at home!
Bus Safety Drill – February 27
🚍 Student safety is our top priority. On Tuesday, February 27, we will conduct a bus safety drill during morning arrival. This drill ensures that all students are familiar with proper bus procedures and emergency protocols. Please remind your child to listen carefully and follow instructions during the drill.
Staffing Updates & Job Fair
We are already planning for a strong start to the 2025-2026 school year! Our administrative team is committed to ensuring that WMES is fully staffed with high-quality educators who reflect and support our diverse school community.
📢 Do you know an outstanding teacher looking for a new opportunity? Our team will be attending the FCPS Instructional Job Fair on March 8 to recruit top talent. If you know a great educator interested in joining the WMES family, please encourage them to apply!
Ramadan Considerations (March 1-30)
As Ramadan approaches, we want to be mindful of the needs of our Muslim students and families. Ramadan is a sacred time marked by prayer, reflection, and fasting from dawn to sunset. We recognize that this may impact students' energy levels and participation in certain activities.
đź’ˇ If your child will be fasting and requires accommodations during lunch, PE, or other activities, please reach out to us. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all students.
Our school will participate in the FCPS Student Experience Survey. This survey will gather important feedback from students about their school experiences to help FCPS make meaningful improvements.
All students in grades 3-6, except those who have opted out, will receive a link to the survey in their FCPS email on today. We will administer the survey during the school day between Monday, February 24, and Friday, March 7. Any student may take the survey at home, if they are unable to take the survey during the school day. You will receive a communication with details on how to preview the survey and opt your child out, if you choose.Â
We believe it's important to hear from our students about what we're doing well and where we can improve. This work also aligns with the five equity commitments in FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which focus on amplifying student voice and experiences as we work toward meeting plan goals.
 Above is our Chronic Absenteeism rate as of February 25, 2025. Help us stay under 15% for Chronic Absenteeism! Staying under 15% is part of the VDOE school accreditation requirement.
 
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