As we head into Spring Break, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the dedication and effort each of you has shown throughout the year. This break is a well-earned opportunity to rest, recharge, and spend quality time with family and friends.
Whether you're traveling, enjoying the outdoors, or relaxing at home, I hope this time allows you to refresh your mind and spirit.
When we return, we’ll be in the final stretch of the school year—let’s finish strong!
As we return from break, we want to emphasize the importance of consistent school attendance. Each day matters. When students miss school, it impacts their academic progress, social development, and the support we’re able to provide.
- Currently, 46 West Springfield students are identified as "chronically absent," missing 10% or more of instructional days thus far.
- Our overall absenteeism has increased by 1% compared to last year.
- Our Kindergarten and First Grade students have the highest number of missed days.
- Research shows that chronic absenteeism in the primary years is linked to lower achievement in reading, math, and general knowledge by the end of first grade.
- Missing just two days a month—or 18 days in a school year—can result in lower test scores and even increase the risk of grade retention.
Of course, we understand that children sometimes need to stay home due to illness. We ask that families work with us to minimize absences whenever possible, avoid travel and appointments that impacts your student's attendance.
If your child is hesitant about attending school, don’t hesitate to reach out. Sometimes physical complaints like headaches or stomachaches can be signs of anxiety. Talk to your child’s teacher, school counselor, or an administrator—we’re here to help.
If your family is going through a difficult time, reach out to your child’s teacher, our family liaison, or school counselor—we’re here to support you.
Together, we can help every student finish the year strong!
News and Notes
 |
|
3-Hour Early Release Reminder
Our next Early Release is Monday, April 21 (the first Monday after Spring Break).
|
Spring Break Office Hours
The office is open during Spring Break between 8:30 - 12:30 or by appointment.
Screening for Subject Specific (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services
Fairfax County Public Schools is committed to challenging all students through talent development and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of advanced learners. Screening for Subject Specific (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services happen during the school year. Please see the AAP Spring Newsletter Article with information about School-Based screening for Subject Specific and Part Time services.
If you have any questions, please contact Caryn Seiler, our Advanced Academic Resource Teacher, at csseiler@fcps.edu.
School Start Times Survey
Share Your Thoughts on School Start Times! FCPS would like to hear from all families on the possibility of adjusting school start times across the division. Please check your email for a survey link from Fairfax County Public Schools. It was also sent to staff as well as to students in grades 5-12. The confidential survey will be open through Saturday, April 12.
We are looking to hire Classroom Monitors and Substitutes for the 2025-26 School year! If you are interested in any of these positions, please reach out if you have any questions or if you want more information. Here is a link to FCPS’ application portal.
Classroom Monitors: Monitors can work up to 5-days a week supervising students with teacher direction. The pay is $17.88/hour. Please apply here and email Dr. Sheers at klsheers@fcps.edu for an interview.
We look forward to seeing our Rising Kindergarten Mustangs on Monday, April 21 at 2:00 p.m. for Kindergarten Orientation!
Upcoming Family Resource Center Webinars
Empowering Twice-Exceptional Students to Understand the Role of Accommodations in Accessing Learning
April 22, 10 – 11:30 am
Supporting families to understand what accommodations are and how they support twice exceptional (2e) students in accessing learning, learn strategies to empower their 2e child to understand and request to use their 504/IEP accommodations, explore ways to collaborate with educators to ensure effective accommodation use and to gain resources to support ongoing conversations with your child about accommodations and their learning needs. Register Here.
The Role of Boundaries in Teen Development
April 25, 10 – 11:30 am
Join Dr. Jain, as she supports families to understand the importance of boundaries, model healthy boundaries, and navigate social and digital boundaries. Register Here.
Community Conversations
You are invited to attend and participate in community conversations. Dr. Reid values the community and employee input and looks forward to their participation in these events.
Community Conversations
Interpreter services will be provided for all events.
Feel free to submit questions anytime on the Superintendent’s webpage or by emailing Superintendent@fcps.edu.
Monday, April 14 - Friday, April 18 - Spring Break
Monday, April 21 - Early Release at 12:30 and Kindergarten Orientation at 2:00
Tuesday, May 6 - Sixth Grade Panoramic Picture 9:00 am
Thursday, May 15 - Strings Concert at WSES 6:00 pm
Wednesday, May 21 - Spring Band & 6th Grade Chorus Concert at WSES at 6:00 pm
Friday, May 30 - Field Day
|
