Weekly Message

Upcoming Student Experience Survey at OES

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 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 received a communication with details on how to preview the survey and opt your child out, if you choose. The electronic opt-out form can also be accessed at this link.

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.

🧩 PTA Puzzle Night is Coming! 🧩

Get ready for an evening of fun, teamwork, and friendly competition! Join us for PTA Puzzle Night on Tuesday, February 3, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM in the OES Cafeteria.

Bring an unopened 250 to 300 piece puzzle, and be prepared for a twist—your puzzle will be traded with another team! Families will work together in teams of parents and kids to race against the clock and each other to see who can complete their puzzle first.

It’s a great way to connect, laugh, and challenge your problem-solving skills. Don’t miss this puzzle-packed night of family fun—we can’t wait to see who puts the pieces together first! 🏆🧩

OES PTA Silent Auction – Donations Needed! 

The OES PTA Silent Auction is one of our biggest fundraisers of the year, and it directly supports programs and enrichment for our students, teachers, and school. We’re officially in donation mode, and we’d love your help making this year’s auction amazing!

Do you have something fun, unique, or creative to share? Donations of all kinds are welcome, including:

• Homemade treats like sourdough, cookies, or specialty desserts 🍪
• Photography mini sessions 📸
• Lessons or experiences (art, knitting, fitness, music, and more!)
• Professional services such as legal or estate planning consultations
• Sports, theater, or concert tickets 🎭⚽
• Vacation homes or weekend getaways 🌴
• Gift cards or experiences from businesses our families love

If you have something to donate—or know someone who does—we’d love to hear from you!

Silent Auction Dates: April 20–26
Contact: Email Becky Radich at Becky.Radich@gmail.com with questions, donations, or to volunteer.

Together, we can make this auction a big win for OES! 💙

♟️ Checkmate Your Afternoons with Oakton Chess Club! 

Calling all thinkers, planners, and problem-solvers! Oakton Chess Club is back this spring, and all students in grades 2–6 are invited to join—beginners and advanced players welcome!

🗓 Tuesdays, 4:00 to 5:30 PM
📍 OES Cafeteria
📆 Spring Session: Feb. 3 to June 2

Students are grouped by ability, not age, so everyone learns at the right level. Beginners will master the rules, while experienced players sharpen strategy and tactics. Along the way, students build critical thinking, discipline, responsibility, and sportsmanship—learning how to win graciously, learn from setbacks, and turn challenges into opportunities.

The cost is $140 per student for the semester, which includes snacks and one club T-shirt per year. Membership also offers the opportunity to participate in the Elementary Team League.

Chess Club is offered through our partnership with the nonprofit U.S. Chess Center and sponsored by the OES PTA.

📝 Register at: https://chessctr.org/oakton/
📧 Questions? Contact vp.programs@oaktonpta.net or admin@chessctr.org

Make your move—join Oakton Chess Club this spring! ♟️