Celebrating the Musical Growth of our Chesterbrook Chipmunks
Our 4th, 5th and 6th grade students celebrated their growth in the area of fine arts (strings, band and chorus) in their winter concert this past week. Thank you to our dedicated music directors, Mrs.Anita Su (strings), Mr. Kai Smith (Band), Mr. Brandon Morris and Mrs. Emily Berthelsen (Chorus).
 Principal's Message
Thank you for those of you that took the time to nominate a staff member for their excellence in their work. Your nominations mean the world and truly lift up our staff in recognition that this work truly matters and makes a difference. You may find a full list of nominees and photos below in our newsletter. We were thrilled to recognize these outstanding Chesterbrook winners last week.
Outstanding Operational Employee: MJ Long (Instructional Assistant)
Outstanding New Teacher: Catherine Cross (Special Education Teacher)
Outstanding Teacher: Stephanie Ruhmel (1st Grade Teacher)
Outstanding School Based Leader: Lara Macdonald (Assistant Principal)
Outstanding Principal: Stacy Kirkpatrick
As shared earlier this week, we are proud to announce that Chesterbrook Elementary has been recognized by the Virginia Department of Education as a Distinguished School. This designation reflects that our school is meeting or exceeding state expectations for student performance, and it is a testament to the partnership between our staff, students, and families.
While we always welcome winter break, it feels like it has come so quickly this year. Breaks always bring wonderful down time to celebrate with family and loved ones, but also create a gap in our continuity of learning. We look forward to finishing out a strong week of learning and seeing your students ready to jump right back in upon our return. While we will not be giving homework over the break, please encourage your children to curl up with a great book or write about their winter break. Any exposure to vocabulary on your travels or discussing what they are thinking about new experiences create rich experiences that continue to build on their growth.
Sincerely,
Stacy Kirkpatrick and Lara Macdonald
Winter Spirit Week 12/15 - 19
Our Spirit Committee has set the fun days for this week. Let's have a bit of fun as we welcome our upcoming winter break.
Monday, 12/15: Makeover Monday (Wacky Hair or a festive headband or hat is welcome too!)
Tuesday, 12/16: Twin Day (twins/triplets/groups)
Wednesday, 12/17: Snowman Wednesday (wear white)
Thursday, 12/18: PJ Day!
Friday, 12/19: Festive Friday Sweater Day!
Important Upcoming Dates
Please review grade level news for reminders on class winter parties and events this week. Thank you room parents for your support coordinating.
Monday, December 15- All full time AAP referrals are due ; Yearbook Cover Contest Opens
December 22 to January 2- Winter break- no school
Monday, January 5- Student and staff return after winter break
Wednesday, January 28- All Yearbook Cover Contest Entries Due
FCPS 2025-26 School Year Calendar
Outstanding Chesterbrook
Employee Nominees and Winners
Each year we get the pleasure of recognizing outstanding staff nominated by the community and their peers. We are pleased to share our outstanding staff recognized and winners for the 2025-26 school year.
Outstanding Operational Employee: MJ Long (Instructional Assistant)
Nominees: Holley Remer (Office Assistant), Kaitlyn Morrissey (Public Health Assistant), Danny Le (Building Supervisor)
Outstanding New Teacher: Catherine Cross (Special Education Teacher) Nominees: Madison Russo (Special Education Teacher)
Outstanding Teacher: Stephanie Ruhmel (1st Grade Teacher) Nominees: Katie Jankowski (3rd), Abby Curry (2nd), Cassandra Moffitt (2nd), Carinda Soulos (Kinder), Leanne Strubhar (Kinder), Courtney Kuduk (Kinder), Jessica Damerell (Special Education)
Outstanding School Based Leader: Lara Macdonald (Assistant Principal)
Outstanding Principal: Stacy Kirkpatrick
Community Partnership
Winter Celebration with Vinson Hall
Our incredible 5th graders enjoyed a cozy and heartwarming afternoon at Vinson Hall, sharing games, laughter, and connection with the residents. Students taught the residents how to play War, enjoyed yummy cookies and warm hot chocolate with marshmallows, and made special memories as they kicked off the winter season together.
Yearbook Cover Contest 2026
Our Annual Yearbook Cover Contest is here!
Finished artwork should be turned into the main office or to Mrs. Remer by January 28 (end of the 2nd quarter).
All Entries Must:
- Be fully made by students
- Oriented vertically on 8.5 x 11 White Paper
- Relate to this year’s them "Chipmunks Chip In and Climb High"
- Include Mascot, Chester
Lettering Spaced, Bold, Legible (Check all spelling)
- Use Bright, Bold Colors
- Design Should Fill Paper
- Include Artist Name in Pencil on the back of design
- Be Creative and Have Fun
- Be Hand designed, No AI designed work will be accepted.
Window for Full-Time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15
Parents and guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for full-time Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) services must submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Amy Vallath, Chesterbrook AART, no later than December 15, 2025.
Each year, families can submit a referral for Full-Time AAP services any time from the first day of school through December 15. No late referrals for Full-Time AAP services will be accepted.
❤️FCPS Cares
Take a moment to acknowledge and affirm a Chesterbrook staff member when they go above and beyond in demonstrating care and dedication that ensures every one of our students is seen, heard, and valued. FCPS Cares. All FCPS Cares nominees are considered for an additional monthly award.
ICYMI - News from FCPS
FCPS This Week
FCPS Showcases Success
Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings
Winter Resources for Families.
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