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Dear Lancer Families:
As we move further into February, I want to take a moment to celebrate the strong momentum we are seeing across our classrooms. Our students continue to demonstrate resilience and focus during what can be a long stretch of the school year. From engaging classroom discussions to collaborative projects and extracurricular activities, it has been wonderful to see their growth both academically and socially. Thank you for your continued partnership in reinforcing the importance of attendance, organization, and steady effort.
As we look ahead, additional details about upcoming spring events, the academic advising season, extracurricular activities, testing dates, and more will be shared below. We appreciate your ongoing support and encourage you to reach out to our staff with any questions. Together, we will continue to ensure a strong and successful second semester for all students. I appreciate your ongoing support and partnership.
Chris Butzer
Principal
Longfellow MS
UPCOMING EVENTS
February
21 LMS Family Climbing Night 6-10pm @ Sportrock Alexandria
25 Spelling Bee
26 Pre-Assessment Band Concert-Symphonic Band
7:00 PM @ McLean HS
March
3 McLean-Longfellow Pre-Assessment Choral Concert
7:00 PM @ McLean HS
5 Pre-Assessment Band Concert 7:00 PM @ McLean HS
10 Orchestra Concert 7:00 PM @ McLean HS
20 Holiday - Eid al-Fitr
25 Rising 9th Grade Activities Fair @ Langley HS
27 End of Quarter-2 Hour Early Release
30-April 3 Spring Break
Schedule for the next two weeks
DETAILS ON UPCOMING EVENTS
🧗♀️ Climb, hang out, and have fun with friends!
Come to Longfellow Family Climbing Night on Saturday, Feb 21, 6–10 PM at Sportrock Alexandria (5308 Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria, VA)!
No experience needed — just bring your energy! Warm up and stay active on a cold winter night while enjoying great climbs with friends. Pizza and drinks will be available for purchase, and proceeds support our PTA and school programs. Grab your friends and join us for an awesome night off the ground! 🎉
Registration link: https://portal.sportrock.com/l?t=DWzeBVgZWa54xVBg
* If registration appears full, please come directly to Sportrock Alexandria and purchase an event pass on-site.
For any questions, please contact wuming9870@gmail.com.
Rising 9th Grade - Academic Advising
We are wrapping up our rising 9th grade academic advising season. Over the past few weeks, students have met with their counselors to discuss course offerings and select their classes for the upcoming school year. We are confident that these discussions have helped students make informed decisions to set them up for success in high school.
We encourage all parents/guardians to check their student’s course selections in StudentVue to ensure everything is accurate and aligned with their academic goals. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your student’s course selections, please don’t hesitate to reach out to their assigned counselor.
Rising 8th Grade - Academic Advising
School counselors recently visited your student’s English class to give an Academic Advising overview of course offerings and electives for their 8th grade year. Starting on February 18th, our 7th grade counselors will conduct individual meetings with each rising 8th grade student. Course selections are due in StudentVue March 4, 2026.
Our website is the main hub of information. There you will find our course catalog, course selection sheets, a guide for how to enter course requests in Student Vue, and information about current courses and graduation requirements for future academic planning.
Please reach out to your student’s counselor if you have any questions.
Gwyneth’s Gift CPR Training!
Tuesday March 3rd and Wednesday March 4th, we will be hosting an all-day AED and hands-only CPR training for our entire student body. This amazing opportunity is all thanks to our ongoing partnership with the Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation. If you would like to donate your time to help us manage students during the event, please email Amanda Creeden at amcreeden@fcps.edu to let us know the day and time you would like to assist. Below are the time slots we would welcome assistance:
Tuesday 3/3:
Period 1: 7:30-8:55
Period 3: 9:00-9:45
Period 5: 10:45-12:15
Period 7: 12:50-2:15
Wednesday 3/4:
Period 2: 7:30-8:55
Period 3: 9:00-9:45
Period 6: 10:45-12:15
Period 8: 12:50-2:15
Thank you!
College Partnership Program (CPP)
The application process for the College Partnership Program (CPP) is now open. Interested 8th Grade students need to apply now to participate as a 9th grader in high school. See FCPS website for more information about this program and the support it provides to students.
Applications are due February 25, 2026: CPP Application
For more information, visit the FCPS CPP Website.
Questions: Contact Bruce Walker (bmwalker@fcps.edu), School Counselor
College Partnership Program (CPP) Applications
CPP offers support from college exploration to application through:
• Academic counseling
• College visits
• Help with completing college and scholarship applications
• Monthly meetings
• Experiences on college campuses
• News and information related to colleges and careers via Schoology
CPP promotes college access and opportunity and supports students who are historically underrepresented on college campuses. This includes students who are the first in their family to attend college in the U.S., multilingual learners, students who are economically disadvantaged, and students with disabilities. Learn more at the FCPS College Partnership Program Website.
All students are encouraged to apply and should meet the following requirements:
• Maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Attend monthly CPP meetings
• Be willing to pursue advanced coursework
• Demonstrate leadership in school or community activities
Please complete the College Partnership Program Interest Form to reserve your seat. The interest meeting is not required to apply. This is just an opportunity for you to learn more about the College Partnership Program.
Questions? Reach out to Mr. Walker at bmwalker@fcps.edu.
APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 25TH
CPP Application Link: https://tinyurl.com/CPPAPP2026
The application can be accessed through your FCPS Google account.
All applications will be submitted ONLINE ONLY.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
NEW Visitor Check in System- Raptor App Setup
Prior to visiting a FCPS school, visitors will need to download the Raptor Safe App and register. Registration takes 2 minutes.
Once registered, in the app a Raptor Passport is created. In the Raptor Passport, a QR code is generated that you scan upon entry into a FCPS school. 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).
Meal Kits for Fasting Students
From February 18 to March 19, students who are fasting during the day can take school meals home. These kits include one breakfast and one lunch to be eaten after the school day ends.
Families must fill out a request form each week for every student who wants a kit. The first deadline is Wednesday, February 11, for the week of February 16. Please note other important details below:
• Cost: Meals are charged just like a normal school day.
• Pickup: Students must grab their kits at the end of the school day.
• Menu: Kits include school meals that are easy to heat at home.
Visit the Food and Nutrition webpage for forms, deadlines, and other information. Please contact the Office of Food and Nutrition Services with any questions at FCPSFNS@fcps.edu or 703-813-4800.
Help Keep Longfellow Phone-Free!
Please remind your student that cell phones and personal devices (AirPods, earbuds, headsets, other items connected to the internet) must be off and away for the entire school day (bell to bell). Cell phones are also not permitted to be used as an instructional tool.
FCPS’ cell phone policy helps students stay focused, safe, and engaged at school. Visit FCPS’ cell phone policy webpage for more information and answers to frequently asked questions, including consequences for cell phone policy violations and exceptions for students with medical conditions or IEP/504 plans.
If you need to contact your student during the school day, please call our front office at 703-533-2600.
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 the ombuds webpage, where you may submit a question. Ombuds staff do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.
AFTER SCHOOL CORNER
The third quarter after-school schedule is now available on the school website and on Schoology. We are excited to share that Intramural Volleyball is officially underway! Students may participate on Mondays and Wednesdays during the first after-school block from 2:25–3:25 PM.
In addition, the Dance Club will hold its first meeting on Monday, February 23rd, from 3:30–4:30 PM. All students are welcome to attend, and no prior sign-up is required.
We encourage students to get involved and take advantage of these fun opportunities. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Bindhu Zachariah at bezachariah@fcps.edu.
Parent and Student Book Club
Longfellow is excited to launch a new Parent and Student Book Club! Join us on Thursday, March 12, at 6:00 PM in the Lecture Hall for our first meeting.
Families may choose one of two books to read together: New Kid by Jerry Craft or When Stars Are Scattered by Omar Mohamed and Victoria Jamieson. Parents and students will read the same book and then come together to share thoughts and participate in a group discussion at our book club meeting.
If you and your child are interested in participating, please complete the interest form. We look forward to reading with you!
Track and Field Sign-Ups
Interested in joining Longfellow’s track and field team? Use the following link to register. To be eligible to participate students must have completed the following:
1. Use the link to complete the registration form.
2. Complete and turn in the Middle School Athletics Physical Form (PPE) to Mr. Stokes. If you completed this already for cross-country and it is dated after March 20, 2025, you don’t need to submit another form.
3. Complete and turn in the Emergency Care Card (ECC) to Mr. Stokes. This must be filled in for each sport season.
Additional information regarding practices and meets will be provided closer to the beginning of the season.
Girls Leadership Committee
The McLean Girls Leadership Committee will hold its second peer mentorship session at Longfellow on Thursday, February 25th. The meeting will be held in the Lecture Hall from 3:30-4:30PM. All students are welcome to attend.
On behalf of the McLean High School Highlander Math League, we are excited to share that we will be hosting the McLean Math Tournament (McMT) for local elementary and middle school students in Grades 5–8 in early March.
McMT is designed to be a fun and engaging math competition for students with a wide range of backgrounds. The problems will span from beginner to advanced levels, making the contest welcoming to all students who are interested in math. In addition to the competition, students will have the opportunity to meet peers with similar interests, participate in fun activities, and enjoy snacks. The contest is completely free, and awards and prizes will be given to participants.
Students who are interested can sign up using the interest form: https://forms.gle/Nc3LvS1uHzpG1cHv6.
Mott Million Dollar Challenge
Young people across the country are full of powerful ideas, and the Mott Million Dollar Challenge is giving them the stage to share them.
This national pitch competition invites K-12 students to submit a short, 30-90 second video showcasing an idea that would make a positive impact in their school, home, or community. Students may enter individually or in teams of up to three, and a total of $1 million in prizes will be awarded. Submissions are due February 27, 2026.
LONGFELLOW PTA
Volunteer opportunity
Chesterbrook Elementary is looking for many teen volunteers to help run our annual Fun Fair happening Friday, April 10th. There is no school for students on this teacher workday. Setup shifts are available 2-4pm, Activity Station shifts run 4-5:30, and 5:30-7pm, clean up shifts run 7-8:30pm.
Volunteering at Fun Fair is a great way to support Chesterbrook, have a great afternoon spending time with young McLean students and earn those volunteer hours.
Please sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0B45AFAC2EAB9-62282727-funfair#/
Thank you for your support!
Spring Hill Fun Fair (March 14)
Are you a student who needs volunteer hours? Do you remember all of the FUN of going to a Fun Fair in elementary school? We’d love for you to volunteer your time to support the Fun Fair at Spring Hill Elementary School! We will provide all the verification you need to earn your service hours. Spots fill up fast, so volunteer early!
Click here to volunteer and earn service hours.
Questions? Contact springhillptostudentvolunteers@gmail.com
PARENT INFORMATION
Summer Trip for Students to Belize
We’re thrilled to share that we’re heading to Belize: Conservation from Ridge to Reef in Summer 2027, and your student is invited! This life-changing experience will help students build confidence, independence, and global perspective.
We’re holding a one-time informational meeting to share everything you need to know and spots on this trip are limited.
👉 Find meeting info and RSVP here: https://bit.ly/3O7uOk5
Why attend?
• Learn how to save $200 with early enrollment
• Get first access to limited spots
• Learn about what we’ll see and do, academic opportunities, trip cost, and more
In the meantime, please visit EF’s website to get answers to common parent questions. EF Tours is our trusted travel partner, and they have 60 years of experience helping students explore the world safely and affordably.
Meal Kits for Fasting Students
From February 18 to March 19, students who are fasting during the day can take school meals home. These kits include one breakfast and one lunch to be eaten after the school day ends.
Families must fill out a request form each week for every student who wants a kit. The first deadline is Wednesday, February 11, for the week of February 16. Please note other important details below:
• Cost: Meals are charged just like a normal school day.
• Pickup: Students must grab their kits at the end of the school day.
• Menu: Kits include school meals that are easy to heat at home.
Visit the Food and Nutrition webpage for forms, deadlines, and other information. Please contact the Office of Food and Nutrition Services with any questions at FCPSFNS@fcps.edu or 703-813-4800.
Survey on Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) Now Open for All Families and Middle and High School Students
On Monday, all FCPS parents/caregivers and middle and high school students received an email to participate in a voluntary and confidential survey. (Please check your spam folder if you have not received it.)
Questions refer to proposed changes to FCPS’ SR&R document for next year. This document outlines the rules that students are expected to follow, and guidelines for consequences if those expectations are not met. Possible changes include:
• Universal Discipline: Charts will list consequences and supports for students. They will help ensure that two students of the same grade will be treated fairly and receive the same level of support.
• Standards for In-School Suspensions of Students with Disabilities: Creating standards for how in-school suspensions are handled for students who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 Plan.
• Accommodations for Multilingual Learner Student Statements: Providing translation accommodations when Multilingual Learner students provide statements about disciplinary incidents.
The survey will be open until Friday, February 20. Survey materials are available online.
Prepare for Summer Learning and Fun for Students
Registration is open or will be available soon for summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.
Career and Technical Education and Institute for the Arts Camps
Career and Technical Education camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Robinson Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Tuition assistance is available to FCPS families eligible for free or reduced meals.
CTE Summer Academy (CSA) is a week-long enrichment program that allows students in grades 6-11 to dive deeper into CTE program areas, develop skills, and begin career exploration. Watch this video about CTE camps. Registration is open for these programs through Friday, June 5.
Institute for the Arts (IFTA) is a two-week camp for students currently in grades 6-11. Students select from nearly 60 classes in art, dance, music, and theater. Rising freshmen have the option to take Health and PE 9 through IFTA as well!
Production Camp is a four-week summer theatre intensive for students in grades 6-11. Students in performance or technical theatre tracks rehearse, design, and build a musical in a collaborative atmosphere. The show is presented to the public at the end of camp.
New this year: Students in the above camps can also register for aftercare, which is available from 2 to 5 p.m.
Planning for Life in and After High School for Students with IEPs
Families, caregivers, and educators of elementary and middle school students receiving special education services are invited to join Career and Transition Services (CTS) to learn about planning for life in and after high school.
The transition fair will take place on Wednesday, March 4, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Luther Jackson Middle School.
Ensuring the success of our students with disabilities after high school is dependent on what is known as transition planning. Please join CTS and other support service personnel for an evening focused on planning for the future.
An exhibitor fair will include teachers and representatives from CTS high school courses, career academies, age 18-22 programs, and transition services for students with disabilities. This event also includes a presentation with a brief overview of transition services and a student/parent panel sharing firsthand experiences. Register in advance.
TJHSST Techstravaganza 2026
Techstravaganza is a free, public, hands-on STEM activity fair for elementary and middle school students in Northern Virginia. In previous years, we've hosted more than 4,500 students and 70 labs presenting STEM activities. Our exhibitors range from TJHSST clubs and our own TWIST volunteers to organizations like NASA SCaN, Art of Problem Solving, George Mason University, American Society of Naval Engineers, and the National Air and Space Museum. This year, we will be holding the 22nd annual Techstravaganza on Saturday, May 16, 2026 from 10 AM to 4 PM at TJHSST.
Admission is free, and we hope that you can spread the word in your school. Here is our registration link: https://tinyurl.com/Techstravaganza26, and attached are flyers in English and Spanish that can be used to advertise this event. We would appreciate you sharing this with families in a newsletter or your school's social media. Please let us know if translating the flyer into other languages will help.
More information about the event can be found on our website at https://techstrav.org/index.html
or tjpartnershipfund.org/techstravaganza/.
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