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School Hours: 9:15 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday
School building opens for students at 9:00 AM
Office: 703-988-8900
Attendance: 703-988-8989
February 11, 2026
IN THIS ISSUE
- Positivity Project at Virginia Run
- Benchmark Unit 5
- Virginia Run SCA Candygrams New Deadline - February 18
- Author and Illustrator Visit for Read Across America Day!
- Parent Input Form for 2026-2027 Class Placement
- New Visitor Check-in System - Raptor Safe App Setup
- 6th Grade Volleyball Game Against Cub Run - Mark Your Calendars!
- Kindergarten Registration
- The Fastest Way to Hear About School Delays or Closings
- Yearbook Sale Time!
- PTA Board for 25-26 School Year
- PTA Board Open Positions (2026-2027)
- PTA Student Newsletter - February 2026
- PTA Fundraisers - Fun Land
- PTA Family Bingo Night
- PE Sports Camp - Summer 2026
- 2026 Franklin Band & Orchestra Camp - Registration Now Open!
- Important Upcoming Dates
- Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
- Monthly Lunch Menu
🗓️ Calendar Reminders: Presidents Day (Holiday)
All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 16, for the Presidents Day holiday.
Teacher Workday
Tuesday, February 17, is a teacher workday, and there will be no school for students. See the school year calendar.
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1. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
Character Strength: Love
This week, our school community will focus on the character strength of Love. Love means you value close relationships with others and being close to people.
Love is shown through our thoughts, feelings, and actions toward those we care about. When we love someone, we comfort them, make them feel safe, support them during tough times, and often put their needs before our own. When someone loves us, we feel safe and secure and can be ourselves around them. We miss them when they are not around.
Love is important for our community and society. We all depend on each other for happiness and well-being. Love creates positive feelings, helping to reduce loneliness, anxiety, and depression. A world without love would be a lonely and unsafe place.
To practice and encourage the character strength of love at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions.
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2. 📚 Benchmark Unit 5: Exploring Technology and Society in Language Arts 📚
Benchmark Unit 5 in Language Arts is about technology and how it can help us solve problems at home, school, and work. Students in K-5 will be learning about technology and society. Grade six students will learn about technology in the 21st century.
Connect with your child’s learning at school with these fun questions and hands-on activities at home:
- Question: If you could invent anything, what would it be?
- Activity: Talk to your child about what daily life was like before today’s advances in technology. Where would you go to find information? How did you stay in touch with friends and family? Ask your child if they think they would like living without modern technology.
At the end of the unit, your child will take their unit magazine home. The magazine includes an activity calendar with fun ways to help students build on what they’re learning at each grade level. You can also find information on how to support your child’s reading at home on the Benchmark Families website.
3. Virginia Run SCA Candygrams New Deadline - February 18
Show someone you care with a candygram this year! The SCA is holding their annual candygram sale. Please check Wednesday folders for forms. Candygrams are $1 each and include a lollipop delivery to the classroom.
Due to the recent snow closures and delays the new deadline for orders is Feb. 18. Candygrams will be delivered on Friday, Feb. 20.
4. Author and Illustrator Visit for Read Across America Day!
We are excited to announce we will have author/illustrator, Peter Catalanotto, coming to our school for Read Across America Day, March 5th! He does a great job getting students excited about reading, writing, and drawing. He is offering a pre-order of his most popular books, which will be in today’s Wednesday folders. If interested, the form is due to Mrs. Siwert in the library by Wednesday, February 18th.
5. Parent Input Form for 2026-2027 Class Placement
With the end of the year quickly approaching, we are already looking ahead to next school year. While we look at class placements for the coming year, we want you to be aware of the process. We place students in classrooms based on numerous criteria. Students are grouped so that classrooms are heterogeneous, having a balance of boys and girls, a balance of academic performance and ability, and groups that will allow for the greatest support from our resource teachers.
Classroom teachers will have input into the recommendations for next year, as will our counselors and specialists. Our staff has been told that we will not take requests for particular teachers because we base our placement on instructional criteria and individual student strengths and needs. It is unfair to give special consideration to some parents when it would be impossible to grant requests from all parents. Please be aware also that grade level assignments for staff sometimes change, due to late enrollments or other changes. Staff assignments are determined at the end of the summer. Our staff has been directed not to give out information about placement prior to that time to avoid disappointing parents and students when changes are made.
In addition, we also value parent input. If you feel there is pertinent information to support your child’s success for the upcoming school year, you may submit your input by clicking on this Parent Input Google Form. The parent input forms are due by May 8, 2026. We value and consider your insight into your child’s learning needs. Taken together with teacher input, your feedback informs class placements.
6. NEW Visitor Check-in System - Raptor Safe App Setup
All Fairfax County Public Schools are getting a NEW Visitor Check-in System beginning next week. Downloading and registering on the Raptor Safe App is not required, you can still use your driver’s license in the building, but this is faster.
What is Raptor Safe?
Raptor Safe is a free mobile app designed to make school visits and student dismissals both faster and more secure. By using the app, you can create a Raptor Passport, which allows you to check in at the school entrance by simply scanning a QR code. A new QR code is generated each time so no screenshots.
A few notes for registration in the app: no code is needed so skip that step and foreign id's and passports can be used (as long as they are in English).
Setting Up Your Account
Getting started is straightforward. Here is the play-by-play:
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Download: Search for "Raptor Safe" in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
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Verification: To keep the community safe, the app will ask you to scan your driver’s license and take a live selfie to verify your identity.
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Privacy: Don't worry about that selfie—it is used only for the initial verification and is not stored in the app.
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Stored Info: The app only keeps necessary details like your name, date of birth, the photo from your ID, and the last four digits of your license or passport.
Quick Tips for Users
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No Passwords to Memorize: The app uses your mobile phone number to log you in. You’ll receive a one-time code via text each time you need to access your account.
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Manage Dismissals: You can use your profile to manage student dismissal preferences directly from your phone.
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Need Help?: If you run into any technical snags, you can find troubleshooting guides at raptortech.com/raptorsafe-app/.
Raptor Safe FAQ Sheet
7. 6th Grade Volleyball Game against Cub Run – Mark Your Calendars!
Our 6th grade volleyball team will be taking on Cub Run Elementary School on Friday, March 6th at Westfield High School!
If you are a 6th grader interested in playing, please stop by the gym to pick up a sign-up sheet.
In addition to the 6th grade volleyball game, our Virginia Run teachers will be facing off against the Cub Run teachers in a fun and competitive volleyball match of their own!
We’ll also have our Virginia Run cheerleaders performing, along with girls’ and boys’ 3-on-3 basketball games against Cub Run.
Everyone else—we would love to see you at Westfield High School cheering on Virginia Run!
We always have an amazing turnout because…
Who does it better than Virginia Run? NOBODY!! 🏐💙
8. 🧸 Kindergarten Registration: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3
There’s an easy five-step process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:
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Determine eligibility.
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Identify your local school.
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Gather documents.
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Fill out forms.
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Schedule an appointment.
After the appointment at the school (the student and one caregiver must be present), the student will be ready for orientation and any other introductory events each school may host. Read more about the registration process.
💻 Try Online Registration
Parents may register their children online for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process. When registering, parents will create (or log in to an existing) SIS ParentVUE account.
9. The Fastest Way to Hear About School Delays or Closings ❄️
Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE to make sure you receive notifications of school delays or closings. Emails and text messages are sent to parents/caregivers based on the email addresses and cell phone numbers entered in ParentVUE.
If your information is correct but you are not receiving updates from FCPS, contact the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277, Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Watch a video to see how FCPS makes weather delays or closing decisions. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated.
Even When School Is Closed, Learning Can Continue!
FCPS encourages students to take advantage of fun learning opportunities during snow days. Consider these winter activities to blend education and play for your child in the event of weather-related school closures.
10. Yearbook Sale Time!
It’s time to order yearbooks for the 2025-2026 school year! Early bird rate of $25 each will expire on Feb 20th. Use the link to purchase or check your child’s Wednesday Folder for the paper flyer to pay by check or cash. Link to purchase: https://www.buytheyearbook.com/en/ Virginia Run’s school code is: 730745.
Mrs. Adkins and Mrs. Tuben are still collecting photos of winter school events, such as classroom celebrations and concerts, for consideration in this year’s yearbook. Photos sent as attachments work best. Please email any great school moments you capture to mktuben@fcps.edu.
11. PTA Board for 25-26 School Year
President - Matthew Reklau - virginiarunpta@gmail.com
Secretary - Laura McAndrews - secretary@vrespta.onmicrosoft.com
Treasurer - Kyle Jewett - treasurer.virginiarunpta@gmail.com
VP Education - Kimberly Wilson - vresvpeducation@gmail.com
VP Fundraising - Amanda Prindle - vresvpfundraising@yahoo.com
VP Social - Skylar Ha - vresvpsocial@gmail.com
12. PTA Board Open Positions (2026-2027)
Hello, Viking Families! As we begin planning for the 2026–2027 school year, we are inviting parents and guardians to express interest in joining the PTA Board. All current board members will be completing their terms at the end of this school year, and no prior PTA experience is required.
This is a low pressure way to learn more about available roles with final board positions determined in June.
Interested? Click the link below to complete the PTA Board Interest Form and learn more. https://forms.gle/9MC9F3XygrF4oM7b9
13. PTA Student Newsletter - February 2026
It’s February, and we have a lot of fun ways for our Vikings to get involved this month. Here is a quick look at what’s happening in our latest student newsletter.
🎨 Art Stars of the Month
A huge shout-out to our featured artists! This month, we are celebrating the "Amazing Heart" artwork from:
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Theodore Sturdevant (3rd Grade)
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Nesrya Temame (4th Grade)
🧠 Take the Viking Quiz
What is the absolute best Valentine’s gift for you? Let us know for a chance to win!
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The Options: A) Chocolate, B) Stuffed Animal, C) Flowers, or D) School Supplies
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The Prize: Two lucky winners will be randomly selected to receive their favorite Valentine’s gift!
🐾 February Artwork Challenge: My Favorite Animal
We want to see your favorite animals! Whether it’s a tiny pet or a giant wild animal, show us your creativity.
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Draw and color your favorite animal.
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Complete this sentence: "I like this animal because..."
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Format: Use letter-size paper or create it digitally.
📤 How to Enter
Make sure to include your full name, grade, and the title of your artwork.
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Paper Entries: Drop them in the PTA Submission Box in the school office.
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Digital Entries: Email them to Skylar7981@gmail.com.
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Deadline: Wednesday, February 18.
Winners will be featured in next month’s newsletter and receive a surprise prize!
PTA Student Newsletter - February 2026
14. PTA Fundraisers
Fun Land Fundraiser
Get ready for some fun because the VRES PTA is hosting a Fun Land Fundraiser!
- Save the Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2026
- Time: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- What you get: For only $20 per person, you'll get a 3-HOUR UNLIMITED ATTRACTIONS PASS plus a $10 ARCADE CARD!
- The Fun: Enjoy over 100 amazing arcade games, Go-Karts, Laser Tag, a Ropes Course, and Rock Climbing. Guaranteed fun for everyone!
- Where: Fun Land in Centreville, VA (5111 Westfields Blvd.)
- How to Purchase: You can buy your passes at the door, but make sure you say you are with VRES!
2.25.26 Fun Land - Fundraiser Flyer
VRES Spirit Wear
Show your Viking pride while supporting the Virginia Run PTA! A portion of every spirit wear purchase goes directly to the PTA. All items are shipped straight to your doorstep.
www.campussurvivalkits.com/virginiarun
https://virginiarun.deco-apparel.com/
15. PTA Family Bingo Night
VRES PTA Family Bingo Night! 🎉
Games, prizes, food, and fun for the whole family!
💙Friday, February 13 | 6–8 PM | VRES Cafeteria
💛No pre-registration required — just come and play!
💛 Volunteers Needed!
We’d love your help to make this event a success!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C4BA4AC23A0F5C34-61595386-2026#/
Bring the whole family and enjoy a night full of laughs, bingo, and great memories!
Snacks & More
The 6th Grade Celebration Committee will also be selling drinks, snacks, and candy during the event.
We also need volunteers to make this night a success! If you’re able to help out or if you’re ready to place your food order, just scan the QR codes on the flyer or click the links provided.
Bingo Night Flyer
16. PE Sports Camp - Summer 2026
Get ready for an action-packed 4-day adventure at Virginia Run Elementary School! Led by our amazing PE Teacher, Mr. Rosenfeld. Don't miss out on this opportunity to hang with your classmates, learn new skills, and have a blast! We will offer a variety of different sports and activities for students in all grades. This camp is open to all Virginia Run students.
Please note, registration is for one session only - morning OR afternoon.
When: June 22 - June 25
Option 1: Morning Session: 9 AM - 1 PM
Option 2: Afternoon Session: 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Every day we will try to increase the fitness level of each camper. We will do this in many ways, including fitness games, cooperative challenges, and individual fitness sessions where each camper will set a goal for themselves and try to achieve it during the week.
What to bring: Campers should wear proper P.E. clothing each day, which includes tennis shoes. No open toe shoes or Crocs, please. Campers should also bring a water bottle each day. Snacks, including drinks and pizza slices will be available for purchase each day. Contact Kimberly Wilson with registration questions: VRESVPEducation@gmail.com
PE Sports Camp - Summer 2026 Registration
17. 2026 Franklin Band & Orchestra Camp – Registration Now Open!
Franklin Band and Orchestra Camp is a local summer program designed to develop young musicians of ALL levels and is open to rising 4th through 9th graders. Students participate in band or orchestra ensembles that meet their ability and experience level, aiming to further develop these musicianship skills throughout the camp experience. Each day, students will have the opportunity to grow musically through both large ensemble performance and small group/instrument-specific clinics. One day of camp is roughly equivalent to four weekly elementary band or strings lessons during the schoolyear! Franklin Band & Orchestra Camp is a fantastic summer opportunity for young musicians to accelerate their musical development! I highly recommend signing your child up for this awesome summer opportunity. Click on the link below for details and registration.
Location - Franklin Middle School
Dates - Monday, June 22nd - Friday, July 10th
Times – Weekdays 8:30 am - 12:30 pm (No Camp on July 3rd)
Ages
Band: Rising 5th - 9th Grade students
Strings: Rising 4th - 9th Grade students
Pricing
$400 - Early Bird Registration (Jan 30 - March 31)
$425 - Regular Registration (April 1 - May 31)
$475 - Late Registration (June 1 - June 19)
Aftercare - From 12:30 - 3:30pm every day (pending enrollment)
More information, frequently asked questions, and registration available at
https://chantillyband.org/franklin-band-orch-camp.
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Virginia Run's Administration team: Dave Gerstner, Principal, Jessica Green, Assistant Principal, and Lauren Arreaza, Assistant Principal.
18. Important Upcoming Dates
2/13: Bingo Night, 6:30 PM, Cafeteria
2/16: Washington's Birthday and Presidents' Day / Student Holiday
2/17: Teacher Workday / Student Holiday
2/24: Clubs/Candids Picture Day
2/25: Early Release Wednesday-Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM
2/25: Fun Land Fundraiser, 4:00 - 9:00 PM
3/6: Cub Run vs. VRES Volleyball Game, 7:00 - 9:00 PM, Westfield High School
3/25: Early Release Wednesday-Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM
4/10: Kindergarten Orientation, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, for Rising K Students and Families
4/29: Early Release Wednesday-Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM
5/20: Early Release Wednesday-Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM
SOL Schedule
3/18: Gr. 5 IRW
5/6: Gr. 3-4 Reading
5/7: Gr. 5-6 Reading
5/13: Gr. 3-4 Math
5/14: Gr. 5-6 Math
5/21: Gr. 5 Science
5/28-6/3: Retakes
*Makeups will be held when students return from their absence.
19. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
20. Monthly Lunch Menu
Please use this link to view the Virginia Run ES Lunch Menu.
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