This Week at Frost - January 9


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Upcoming Important Dates!

 

  • January 14                   Rising 9th Grade Open House @ Annandale
  • January 15                   Rising 9th Grade Curriculum Night @ Woodson
  • January 19                   MLK Jr. Day - Student Holiday
  • January 21                   Rising 7th Grade Orientation - Virtual

      UPDATED DATE FOR COFFEE WITH MR. HARRIS!

  • January 21                 Coffee with the Principal - Frost MS Library
  • January 23 - 24          Frost Drama Presents! The Little Mermaid
  • February 12                Frost Family Festival

Message from Principal Harris

 

Welcome back to Frost MS! I hope everyone had a restful and enjoyable holiday season and feel recharged for the new year ahead. As we return, please note we have about three weeks remaining in the second quarter, and I look forward to seeing our students work hard for a strong finish to the first semester. Parents and families, also please keep up with your student’s academic progress as we near the midpoint of the school year. You can check how your child is doing by accessing the ParentVue app. 

All the best and have a wonderful weekend!

 

Mr. Harris


Students doing various activities

8th Graders! Save the Date!

Rising 9th Grade Curriculum Night at Woodson

  • Date – Thursday, January 15th, 2026
  • Time – 6:00pm-8:00pm (Rising 9th Grade Presentation from 6:00-7:00pm in the Auditorium…attendance strongly encouraged!)
  • Location – Woodson HS Auditorium and both Cafeterias
  • Additional details - Curriculum Night is an opportunity to meet with teachers from every academic department to learn more about course offerings available for students to take next year. Tables will be set up for each department in both of our cafeterias for families to walk around and visit at their own pace and ask questions of teachers available at each table. Both cafeterias will be open for families to visit tables from 6:00-8:00pm. Rising 9th grade families are strongly encouraged to join us in the Auditorium at 6:00pm for a presentation where additional detailed information will be shared with families to help fully inform students ahead of course selection.

Annandale High School’s Rising 9th Grade Open House

We can’t wait to welcome you to Annandale High School’s Rising 9th Grade Open House on January 14 from 6:00-8:00pm! This is your chance to see what being an Atom is all about, and we promise it’s going to be both exciting and informative.

Here’s what’s in store: 

Explore Our Programs – Check out short sessions on awesome topics like student life, sports, the IB/MYP Program, and more.

Meet Your Future Teachers – Visit classrooms and learn about the cool core and elective courses waiting for you.

Get Ready to Shine – Walk away feeling pumped about all the opportunities you’ll have and ready to ace your course request form with your counselor.

Breakout Sessions will include: Welcome to Annandale; Course Request 101; IB/MYP Program; Activities and Athletics; English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Program; Special Education; and Student Life.

We know transitioning to high school can be a big step, but don’t worry—we’ve got your back! Bring your excitement and your questions (you can even submit them ahead of time through this Google Form by Monday, January 5) so we can make sure this event is everything you need and more.

We’re counting down the days to seeing you at Annandale High School! Go Atoms!


Student Experience Survery pictures of students

Upcoming Student Experience Survey at Frost MS

 

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 6-12, except those who have opted out, will receive a link to the survey in their FCPS email on February 23. We will administer the survey during the school day between Monday, February 23, and Friday, March 6. 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.

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 equity commitments in FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which include a focus on amplifying student voice and experiences as we work toward meeting plan goals.


College Partnership Program (CPP)

8th graders are eligible to apply to the College Partnership Program (CPP). This program is designed to support students interested in exploring, applying to, and enrolling in college. In accordance with FCPS' goal to eliminate gaps in opportunity, access, and achievement for all students, CPP focuses on academic advising, college visits, family engagement, and preparation beyond high school.

If your student is interested in attending the interest meeting, please have them complete this form by Wednesday, January 28, 2026. The interest meeting will be held during Falcon Focus on Tuesday February 10, 2026.

 

Please reach out to Ms. Guild or Mrs. Mendoza if you have any questions.


Reading and Math Screening Tests

 

The Virginia Literacy Act (VLA) and Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) require schools to provide reading and mathematics screening tests for all students in grades 3-8. These assessments also fulfill a requirement for reading and mathematics growth assessments within the Virginia Assessment Program (VAP). Test results help families and teachers know how to support each student’s learning and development.


• Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) Math - required for all students who are scheduled to take the spring Standards of Learning (SOL)


• iReady Reading - required for all students who are scheduled to take the spring SOL


• Virginia Language and Literacy Screening System (VALLSS) - required for certain students based on other reading performance data
If your student is identified to participate in VALLSS, you will receive additional communication from your student’s school with details about this assessment. Families may also choose to opt-in to VALLSS participation by contacting their student’s teacher.


Teachers assess grade 3-8 students with MAP Math, iReady Reading, and VALLSS in fall, winter, and spring. The Academic Screening, Growth, and Diagnostic Tests webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/academic-screening-growth-and-diagnostic-tests) provides more information on these tests.


iReady and MAP tests are generally delivered during the classroom instructional block. VALLSS may be delivered within classroom instruction or at another time, such as an intervention or advisory period. The division schedule for iReady, MAP, and VALLSS tests can be found on the Grade Level Tests webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/academics/student-tests-assessments/grade-level-tests). Teachers set specific testing schedules for students in their class.


Based on academic screening results, some students may require a reading plan or math intervention plan. Some students may require additional diagnostic tests to help teachers determine specific areas for support. If you have questions about academic screening, growth, or diagnostic tests, please contact your student’s teacher or the school's test coordinator.


Family Engagement

The Little Mermaid Tickets Available at Door

 

Tickets are now on sale for Frost Drama’s next production: Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr.! Our cast and crew members are working hard to bring this Disney classic to life, and you won’t want to miss this! Performances are Friday, January 23rd at 7 PM, Saturday, January 24th at 7 PM, and Sunday January 25th at 2 PM.

Bring the whole family, and you may even have the chance to meet Ariel and friends after the show! Click here to buy your tickets!

 

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Frost MS Principal Coffee Talk

Coffee Talk with Mr. Harris

 

Join Principal Harris January 21st from 7:15am - 8:15am for Coffee Talk in the Library!


Cares Corner

 

English Empowerment Center

Register for beginning-level English classes. Sign-up for any in-person English classes (excluding Intensive English class) on Wednesday, December 17 from 5:30pm-7:30pm at James Lee Community Center, 2855 Annandale Rd, Falls Church, VA 22042. Space is limited. 

Online class registration will begin on December 15 through January 16, 2026 at 5:00pm. Space is limited! Start signing up here on December 15th.

(Early Registration Flyer) (In-person Class Schedule) (On-line Class Schedule)

 

ECHO (Ecumenical Community Helping Others)

ECHO provides clothing, food, grade-appropriate school supplies packaged in backpacks, household items, computers and financial assistance to families that live in Burke and the greater Springfield area. Including all addresses in the following zip codes: 22151, 22152, 22153 and 22015, and some addresses in 22150 and 22312.

Tutoring Resources for Families

Some families may be looking for additional resources to help support their child’s academic success. The Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of FCPS employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to hire as tutors. Families are responsible for contacting and working directly with the tutors. This list is not approved by FCPS and is only meant as a resource for families.

FCPS also partners with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors' services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests.

 

Family Winter Assistance

As the winter season approaches, we’d like to share some important reminders and community resource information regarding holiday assistance.

Families who may need assistance are encouraged to apply directly through the local charities and organizations listed below. These groups provide a range of supports during the holiday season, but also year-round!

Emergency Food Access Map-  This food access resource connects community members to the locations of food distributions throughout Fairfax County. The results can be filtered by several variables including zip code, items needed, and language spoken. Metro routes are also displayed to help plan your trip. Please make sure to call or email the food provider listed on the map to confirm they are open. Flyers English and Spanish

 

Frost Assistance Information Form

Parents and caregivers, throughout the school year we receive information about programs in the community that may be helpful to families who are in need of financial and other types of assistance. If you would like to receive this information, please designate the area or areas of assistance that you could use support in through the following form. All information is kept confidential.  https://forms.gle/aX7NwQ5piAbEYU8F9

 

Healthy Minds Fairfax

Healthy Minds Fairfax offers short-term behavioral health services for children and youth who live in Fairfax County. Families can access up to 8 free counseling sessions with licensed therapists for support with depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, or loss. For more information please click on the link: http://bit.ly/4moBFAZ

Throughout the school year we receive information about programs in the community that may be helpful to families who need financial and other types of assistance. If you would like to receive this information, please fill out the following survey. This information will be kept confidential.

https://forms.gle/tikQY2bA7LrjwYnG9 

 

Financial Assistance

Throughout the school year we receive information about programs in the community that may be helpful to families who are in need of financial and other types of assistance. If you would like to receive this information, please fill out the following survey. This information will be kept confidential.

https://forms.gle/tikQY2bA7LrjwYnG9 

Food Distribution

Frost Middle School distributes weekend food bags containing nonperishable snack items to students in need on Friday afternoons. Please contact Becky Henry, school social worker, at 703-426-3864 or rkhenry2@fcps.edu if you would like your child to receive a bag or for more information. Participant names are confidential.


Family Resources

Get to Know FCPS and Resources Available to Families

Being connected to your school community helps you stay informed and support your child’s success. Take some time to get familiar with the many resources and tools available to FCPS families, including:

  • School Age Child Care (SACC) — This Fairfax County Government program provides a safe and fun environment before and after school for elementary school-age children.
  • FCPS Communications for Families — FCPS shares news and information to support student learning and promote family involvement.
  • Family Engagement Resources — FCPS works to connect, strengthen, and support our families, schools, and communities. 
  • Family Liaisons — Family liaisons serve as a link between families and schools. Find out how family liaisons can support you and your family.

Resources for Families of Students with Disabilities

SEPTA, the Fairfax County Special Education Parent Teacher Association, was created to empower and connect families, students, and educators to ensure students with disabilities develop their full potential as individuals and community members. Learn more or become a member on the SEPTA website

The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is a state mandated Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC). Parents/guardians, students, teachers, administrators, staff, and others interested in special education at FCPS are welcome and encouraged to share their thoughts, ideas, and/or public comment related to the unmet needs of students with disabilities.

FCPS’ Office of Special Education Procedural Support provides guidance to staff, families, and students in areas related to the implementation of and compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended. 

Families of students in special education programs can find more resources in the Special Education Handbook for Parents. (Translations are available from the Parent Resource Center (PRC).) 

The PRC offers free webinars, consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Their YouTube channel includes videos of workshops and webinars for families and educators to support student success. Sign up for their newsletter to receive information on upcoming webinars and other resources. Please contact the PRC with any questions at prc@fcps.edu or call 703-204-2941.

Kathy Murphy, the assistant ombuds for special education, provides information and support to parents/caregivers and students regarding special education and Section 504 services. Staff in the Office of the Ombuds believe that by being transparent and connecting families with available supports and services, children with special needs can equitably access public education.

Contact the ombuds by submitting a question, calling 571-423-4014, or emailing ombuds@fcps.edu. 

Helpful Resources

  1. https://fairfaxcountyemergency.wpcomstaging.com/2022/07/26/covid-19-updates-new-vaccine-option-baby-vaccine-data-1-million-vaccines/Free hotspot and internet for families with students who receive free and/or reduced-price meals or Fairfax County services.
  2. 988 is now active across the United States. This new, shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services. (Please note, the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number will continue to function indefinitely.) Click here to learn more about 988.
  3. Locations to receive recommended child and adolescent immunizations are available throughout the Fairfax Health District, including at many pharmacies and groceries that have pharmacies. Please click here to find a location near you.
  1. Fairfax County Youth Substance Use Trends and Supports Webinar (recording). Due to the rise in opioid overdoses in the Fairfax Health District, which is consistent with national and state trends, Fairfax County Public Schools has partnered with Fairfax County Government to provide an educational webinar on youth substance use trends and supports.
  1. Healthy Minds Fairfax has a 1-pager on how to know when your child may have a mental health concern and where to get help.

 


Quick Links & Phone Numbers

Attendance Phone Line: 703-426-5702

Attendance Email: frostmiddle.attendance@fcps.edu

Attendance Online Submission

SIS Parent Vue Account Set-Up Video

Parent Information Phone Lines: Phone lines available in different languages to assist families.

Parent IT Support Portal

Frost MS Website  

Frost MS PTA Homepage

FCPS School Year Calendars

Blue/Gray Calendar and Bell Schedule

Schoology

SIS ParentVUE Account Access

Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information

 

Frost MS Adminstration

Anthony Harris: Principal apharris@fcps.edu

Kenya Champ: Assistant Principal kschamp@fcps.edu

Katy Kownacki: Assistant Principal kkownacki@fcps.edu

Richard Deixler: Assistant Principal radeixler@fcps.edu 

Ellen Reed: Assistant Principal evreed@fcps.edu 

Danielle Hornbecker: Director of Student Services dshornbecker@fcps.edu 

 

Counselors

Megan Dunn mpdunn@fcps.edu 

Larkin Gibas lrgibas@fcps.edu 

Dan Joo djoo@fcps.edu 

Becky Mendoza ramendoza@fcps.edu 

Katie Webb kawebb@fcps.edu 


Frost is on Instagram! 

Follow us at @FrostMsFCPS