The Weekly Roar - Monday, June 2, 2025

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The Lion's Roar

Monday, June 2, 2025

 


 

The Halls Were Alive with the Sound of Music

On May 22, students, staff, and families were able to enjoy the vocal musical talents of our 5th and 6th Grade Choruses. This past Thursday, instrumental music took center stage with our Spring Band and Strings Concerts. 

4th grade strings students playing in their concert in the gym

4th grade strings students playing in their concert

Strings students performing their Spring Concert

Strings students performing their Spring Concert in the cafeteria

Strings students performing their Spring Concert

Band students performing their Spring Concert

Band students performing their Spring Concert

 

Dioramas on Display

In Ms. Brusick's 3rd grade classroom, students wrote reports about their studies of natural disasters and created dioramas to illustrate them. Last week they presented their work to Mr. Benzelock's 5th graders.

Ms. Brusick's 3rd graders presenting their natural disaster diorama projects to 5th graders

Ms. Brusick's 3rd graders presenting their natural disaster diorama projects to 5th graders

Ms. Brusick's 3rd graders presenting their natural disaster diorama projects to 5th graders

 

Under the Big Top, Kindergarten Style!

The circus came to town this morning – the Lane Kindergarten Circus! Watch next week's newsletter for pictures from this beloved annual tradition.

Kindergarten Circus banner

 

Upcoming Events

  • Friday, 6/6 – PTA End-of-Year Glow Dance, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

  • Wednesday, 6/11 – Last day of school, 2-hour early dismissal at 2:05 p.m.
  • Wednesday, 6/11 – PTA End-of-Year Restaurant Night at Sweet Frog, 4 – 8 p.m. 

 



In This Issue

  • June Spirit Days Next Week!
  • End-of-Year Schoolwide Events and Engagement Survey – We Want to Hear from You!
  • Please Return Library Books as Soon as Possible!
  • Caribbean American Heritage Month
  • Eid al-Adha Observance Days
  • Attention Rising 4th, 5th, and 6th Grade Families – Sign Up for Band or Strings Next Year Now!
  • Save the Dates for Summer and Back-to-School Events!

  • Limited Early Release Days Continue Next Year
  • New Lane PreK Program for Eligible Families for 2025-26 School Year
  • Parent Resources: Mental health resources, summer camps, Ombuds Office, Family Information Phone Lines, and more!
  • Community Events & Activities: Summer sports camps
  • FCPS News & Activities: Budget update

 


 

News & Notes

 

June Spirit Days Next Week!

The SCA is sponsoring spirit days during the last days of the school year. We kicked off the fun today with a “Circus Day” to support the Kindergarten Circus, which took place this morning. Next Monday through Wednesday also have special themes. Here’s the schedule:

  • Monday, June 9: Pajama Day
  • Tuesday, June 10: Lane Lion Spirit Day (and it just so happens that it’s 6th Grade Promotion day, too!)
  • Wednesday, June 11: Baseball Cap Day (last day of school and 2-hour early release at 2:05 p.m.)

We hope your child will join the fun and participate!

 

Artwork that says "We Want Your Feedback!"

 

End-of-Year Schoolwide Events and Engagement Survey – We Want to Hear from You!

It's hard to believe the 2024-2025 school year is nearly over! We've accomplished so much this year, and we really enjoyed the time we got to spend learning and celebrating together. As we start planning for the upcoming year, we want to make sure that we are offering families the opportunities they enjoy and need to build connections and community.

We offered A LOT of opportunities this year, and we'd love to have your feedback. Please take a few minutes to fill out this survey about this year's events and other opportunities sponsored by both the school and the PTA. And, please, give us ideas and suggestions for future opportunities. Thank you!

 

stick of books

Please Return Library Books as Soon as Possible!

All student library books were due last Wednesday and are now overdue. Please do your best to get all materials turned in as soon as possible.

Electronic notices to help remind students of ALL of their checked-out library materials will be emailed weekly through next week.

As always, the library does not have fees for overdue books; however, families are expected to pay the replacement cost for books that are lost or returned damaged.

Thank you for supporting the library! Contact Mrs. Chozick, Librarian, at schozick@fcps.edu with questions.

 

Caribbean American Heritage Month

 

Caribbean American Heritage Month

FCPS celebrates the rich diversity and honors the many contributions of immigrants of Caribbean heritage to our nation during the month of June. Caribbean individuals are some of the most ethnically diverse in the world. There are more than 8.5 million individuals in the United States born in the Caribbean or of Caribbean ancestry. Learn more about Caribbean American Heritage Month.

 

Eid al-Adha

 

Eid al-Adha Observance Days

Eid al-Adha, or the “Feast of Sacrifice,” is the second of two main holidays celebrated in Islam. Muslims believe that Eid al-Adha signifies the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim, known as Abraham in Christianity and Judaism, to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as ordered by Allah. It focuses on sacrifice, the pilgrimage to Mecca, and giving to those less fortunate.

Until a few days ago, the holiday was anticipated to begin at sundown on Friday, June 6. Due to this week’s updated lunar sightings, the holiday now begins at sundown on Thursday, June 5, and continues through Friday, June 6, one day earlier than originally anticipated and planned. We understand that globally some mosques vary in their interpretation of this date change.

FCPS staff are working to support our students and staff who observe Eid al-Adha, while recognizing that there are important events and activities, including graduations, that we are not able to shift at this late date. With that in mind, the following changes are planned: 

  • The evening of Thursday, June 5, will now be designated as a modified observance evening.
  • Friday, June 6, will now be a modified observance day, allowing students to be excused from school without academic penalty for the duration of the observance.

During observance days, activities such as quizzes, tests, field trips, or FCPS-scheduled athletic contests typically will not occur. However, due to the late date change, there is a need to modify the observance day expectations. During this modified observance period, all activities that cannot be rescheduled at this late date will continue as planned. Students observing the holiday will be provided an alternative day after the holiday to make up their work.

Due to the likely number of transportation staff celebrating this holiday, there may be some bus delays on Friday, June 6. Families can use the Bus Delay Notification System or use the FCPS Mobile App to receive the bus delay information should it become necessary. 

Eid Mubarak to all who observe!

 

Sign Up for Music Electives for Next Year Now!

Attention Rising 4th, 5th, and 6th Grade Families!

NOW is the time for students who will be in 4th, 5th, or 6th grade next year to SIGN UP to learn how to play an instrument in Strings (grades 4, 5, 6) or Band (grades 5, 6 only). Lessons happen during the school day (during Specials) with a concert at the end of the year! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of this AMAZING instrumental program at Lane!

Click on this link to sign up for Strings or Band for the 2025-2026 school year.
If you have questions, please reach out to Strings teacher James Piccirello at jradkisonpic@fcps.edu or Band teacher Ryan Woessner at rtwoessner1@fcps.edu.

Save the Date sticky note

 

Save the Dates for Summer and Back-to-School Events!

We have started planning some community events for the summer and the school year ahead! Please be sure to put these events on your calendars if you’d like to attend.

  • Popsicle Playdates: Monday, August 4, and Tuesday, August 5, Main Playground

    • Monday, August 4
      • New kindergarten families, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
      • Grades 1 & 2, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
    • Tuesday, August 5
      • Grades 3 & 4, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
      • Grades 5 & 6, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
  • Open House: Thursday, August 14, 5 – 7 p.m.
    • Students and their families are invited to come to school during this time period to see their classrooms, meet their teachers, and reconnect with Lane friends. In order to manage our capacity for this popular event, we have divided our school community into three groups, by student last name. (If you have children with different last names, your family may choose a session based on any of the names.)
      • Last names that begin with A through H: 5 – 5:30 p.m.
      • Last names that begin with I through Q: 5:45 – 6:15 p.m.
      • Last names that begin with R through Z: 6:30 – 7 p.m.
  • PTA First Day Coffee: Monday, August 18, 9:20 – 10:30 a.m.
  • Back-to-School Night: Tuesday, August 26, 6 – 8 p.m.

More details about these and other events will be sent out in the weeks ahead.

 

Limited Early Release Days Continue Next Year

During a report to the School Board this month, FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid announced plans to continue limited early release days in elementary schools and shift them to Wednesdays for the 2025-26 school year. This plan is based on recommendations from the Early Release Steering Committee. The committee includes parents, caregivers, school-based staff, and central office personnel. Read more about the reasons for early release and the proposed early release dates.


New Lane PreK Program for Eligible Families for 2025-26 School Year

Our school will be gaining a grade level next year with the addition of our first PreK program for 4-year-olds from families who meet specific criteria.

Your family may qualify for PreK or Early Head Start if you:

  • have a child who will be age 3 or 4 by September 30,
  • receive free or reduced-price school meals, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Social Security Income, and/or homeless per definition of the McKinney Vento Act, or
  • receive resources such as from a shelter and/or the FCPS homeless liaison office.

Though families may qualify, spaces are limited and selection is based on need, not “first come, first served,” with PreK priority given to 4-year-olds.

If you would like to apply for this program, visit the FCPS website:
https://www.fcps.edu/about-fcps/registration/early-childhood/prek-and-early-head-start-application.

Note: The application eligibility, selection, and enrollment process is managed centrally at the Office of Early Childhood Curriculum and Grant Management located in Falls Church, not at schools. If you have a question about the application process or status please call the main English Line: 703-208-7900 or Spanish Line: 703-208-7901.

 


 

PTA News

colorful drawing of people dancing

 

Light Up Your Night at the PTA’s Glow Party on Friday, June 6!

It’s time to shine with other Lane families and friends as we near the end of the school year! On Friday, June 6, the Lane PTA will host a Glow Dance from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Lane Cafeteria! So grab your brightest clothes and glowing accessories and get ready for an amazing end-of-year experience!

A limited number of tickets are now on sale, so get yours today before they sell out! Here are the prices:

Family Ticket: $8 (includes 1 adult & 1 child)
Each additional Child Ticket: $3
Each additional Adult Ticket: $5

Purchase tickets here: https://lanepta.givebacks.gives/laneglowparty/Campaign/Details.

Remember to have your ticket QR code ready (mobile or print) for speedy entry!

PLEASE NOTE:

  • There WILL NOT be any food, snack, or drink sales at the event. Please eat before arriving or bring snacks.
  • There WILL be a designated Quiet Space available if a student or adult would like to step away from the lights and the noises of the event.
  • Due to Fire Marshall regulations, the number of people who can attend this event is limited. Every person, regardless of age, must have a ticket to enter. If you purchase a ticket (or tickets) and are unable to make it, please consider donating your tickets to another family who did not purchase tickets in time.
  • All students MUST have an adult present at the dance, this is not a drop off event!

Volunteers Needed

We have many volunteer positions open for this event. Volunteers get a FREE Family Ticket, which includes 1 adult and 1 child – an $8 value! (Please be sure to purchase tickets for additional children through the link above.

Link to Volunteer

 

PTA sponsors

 

Parent Resources

 

Your Child's Mental Wellness Matters: Access Comprehensive Services

Reach out to the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) for specialized youth mental health services designed to help your child succeed. The CSB has individual and family counseling, psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, medication management, parenting groups, peer support, crisis response, recovery supports that include medication-assisted treatment (MAT), intensive services, and other options.

Contact CSB Entry and Referral by calling 703-383-8500 or emailing csb@fairfaxcounty.gov.

 

FCPS Ombuds Office Provides Confidential Guidance

The Office of the Ombuds engages with families, students, and staff to offer resources and improve the experience of each and every member of the FCPS community. They work as an independent confidential resource to help answer questions, offer options to resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.

Anyone seeking assistance from the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, text 571-496-8284, email ombuds@fcps.edu, or visit their webpage, where you may Submit a Question. Ombuds staff do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.

 

Family Information Line Available in Eight Languages

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. View the list of phone numbers.

 

Fairfax County Camp Fairfax Registration Open!

Camp Fairfax welcomes rising 1st through 7th grade children for a weekly summer camp located in public schools and community centers throughout Fairfax County. Each weekly session offers the opportunity for children to explore their creativity and develop their talents and skills. Camp Fairfax also provides opportunities for children to develop friendships, enjoy time outdoors, and participate in field trips. Breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack are provided. A sliding fee scale is available.

Lane will be a Camp Fairfax site this summer. Sessions run July 16 through August 15. Find more information and register on the Camp Fairfax page.

Camp Fairfax flyers in English and Spanish
VIP Camp logo

 

Attention 6th Grade Parents: Summer VIP Camp Now Registering!

Register your rising 7th grader for a summer of fun and leisure at Value in Prevention (VIP) Camp!

VIP Camp is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. Campers will have a great time participating in sports, games, fitness, art, and STEM activities in a safe environment.

This camp, sponsored by FCPS and Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, will be held at Whitman Middle School Tuesday, July 1, through Thursday, July 31, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Drop-off opens at 8 a.m.) The camp fee is just $100 for all five weeks, and some scholarships are available. Visit the NCS VIP Camp website for more information.

Teens may also enroll in NCS’ Teens in Action Program.

VIP Camp flyers

 

Community Events & Activities

 

Edison Tennis Camp in June

The Edison High School boys' and girls' tennis teams will once again be holding their summer tennis camp at the school's courts for students in rising grades 3 through 12. Camps will take place the week of June 16 or the week of June 23 from 9 a.m. to noon daily. Costs vary by week and by ability level; the camps raise funds for both the boys' and girls' school teams. Questions? See the information below or contact Coach W at rlwinbush@fcps.edu.

Edison Tennis Camp June 16-20 and 23-27

 

Get in the Action with LMVSC This Summer

LMVSC will offer opportunities for young people to play two sports this summer – basketball and soccer.

LMVSC Summer Basketball Details

  • 5 games
  • Meets weeknights
  • Uniform provided
  • Starts the week of June 24
  • Financial aid available

Sign up at www.lmvsc.org Questions? Contact Tom Fitzpatrick at tfitzpatrickdob@lmvsc.org


Summer Soccer Camp Details

  • June 16 through 20
  • Full- and half-day options
  • Professional training
  • Free shirt
  • Financial aid available

See the flyer below for more details.

 

LMVSC summer basketball and soccer camps flyer

 

FCPS Events & Activities


School Board Unanimously Adopts the FCPS 2025-26 Budget

The Fairfax County School Board unanimously adopted the FCPS Fiscal Year 2025-26 Approved Budget. Facing years of chronic underfunding, the final budget required $121 million in reductions to the needs-based budget that was carefully developed with the FCPS community’s high expectations in mind. While these cuts and reductions will impact our classes, the school division will continue to do what is necessary to provide a world-class education for every student. Read more about the budget in this news release.