March 13, 2026 - Gunston Gazette

Fairfax County Public Schools sent this bulletin at 03/13/2026 04:13 PM EDT

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Kristen Rucinski - Principal           

women history

 

March 1st - 31st: Women's History Month

March 18th: PTA Spirit Night - Yafe Mediterranean Grille from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.

March 20th: All FCPS Schools are closed - Eid al Fitr

March 20th: GES Yearbook Cover Submissions Due

March 23rd: Kindergarten Orientation 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

March 25th: 3 hour Early Release - 12:20 p.m.

March 26th: PTA Meeting - 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

March 27th: End of 3rd Quarter - 2 hour Early Release - 1:20 p.m.

March 30th - April 3rd: All FCPS Schools are close for Spring Break

April 6th: FCPS Teacher Workday - No Students

April 21st: April Statewide Election: No School for Students

May 2nd: Run for a Reason! Gunston Trail Run

 

Gunston Gazette

Letter from the Principal

Dear Gunston Families,

As we move into March, I wanted to take a moment to share some of the great things I am seeing in our hallways and classrooms. I am so proud of our Eagles and the effort they put forth each day. Many of our students are doing a phenomenal job taking charge of their learning. They are setting personal goals, picking out specific strategies that help them succeed, and keeping a close eye on their own progress. It is truly inspiring to see them work this hard to be their best.

We are keeping our AVID focus going strong by working on the skills that help students stay on track. This means we are practicing organization, effective study habits, and purposeful note-taking every day. We are also teaching our older eagles how to use a planner to manage their time so they can be more productive. These are the habits that help them feel confident as they move toward middle school. Please take some time to talk with your child about their organization and study habits.  Ask them to show you their planner, notes or talk about how they are keeping their materials organized.

Along with our schoolwork, we are engaging in conversations about being safe, respectful, and responsible members of our community. In our morning meetings this month, we are asking the students a big question: What do we want people to say about Gunston? We are discussing how our daily actions have to match the reputation we want to have as a school. We are encouraging everyone to make positive choices, look for ways to lead, and support one another.

Spring break is coming up at the end of the month, and I hope you all get some quality time together. Some of the best memories are made at home just engaging in conversation, playing cards, or simply spending time together. I hope the break gives your family a chance to relax and enjoy disconnecting and being present for each other.

Finally, I have some very exciting news to share. We are thrilled to have Mrs. Ovalle officially start this coming Monday as our new Assistant Principal. She is a wonderful addition to our leadership team.  She was able to spend a day here this week and was so impressed with our Eagles.

Thank you for everything you do to support our school and our students. We truly have a special community here.

Warmly,

Ms. Rucinski

April Statewide Election

April Statewide Election: No School for Students

There will be no school for students on Tuesday, April 21, for the Virginia statewide election. Student activities, athletic practices, and events may proceed as scheduled. 

Fairfax County Public Schools will still exceed the required number of instructional hours for students, as set by the Virginia Department of Education.

PTA News

Next PTA Meeting will be Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Please join us! 

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/3236608793?pwd=RF69mhfFopHSUu3kEZBm7Y3yt73zv0.1&omn=87273931486

Meeting ID: 323 660 8793

Passcode: Gunston

PTA Spirit Night!

PTA Spirit Night will be Wednesday, March 18, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Yafa Mediterranean Grille.  The address is 9033 White Spruce Way, Lorton, VA 22079.  15% of the proceeds will be donated back to our school.  Come on out and support our Eagles! 

pta spirit night
PTA

PTA Yearbook Cover Contest

Would you like your artwork featured on the cover of Gunston's 2025-2026 yearbook? How about a FREE 2025-2026 Yearbook for the cover WINNER! We are inviting ALL Gunston Elementary Students to enter their drawings. 

ENTRIES DUE BY 20 MARCH 2026, NO Extensions

Submission requirements

  1. 8.5x11 sheet of white paper
  2. Portrait orientation (this paper is printed Portrait – do not turn it sideways)
  3. Only on the back: write your name with pencil
  4. Paper cannot be folded
  5. No use of commercial graphics, logos, licensed characters, or offensive material
  6. Digital designs are welcome but need to be original and cannot be copied materials
  7. All entries must include the following text:

Gunston Elementary

2025-2026

Title related to this year’s theme: Empower | Inspire Excellence | Unlock Possibilities

Suggestions/Tips:

  • Try to think of a design that will appeal to all Gunston students.
  • Letters – dark colors and outlining each letter with black work best.

Entries that do not meet the submissions requirements above, cannot qualify for the cover. We cannot guarantee artwork submissions will be returned.  For questions: E‐mail gunstonptaevents@gmail.com.

PTA Cover
kinder

Date: Monday, March 23   Time: 4:30pm - 6:30pm

This is a special afternoon for you and your rising kindergarten student to meet school administrators, kindergarten team and other school resource staff.

  • Complete registrations are not required to attend this event but are encouraged.
  • All questions are welcome!  Please call or email our registrar, Lynn Warner, at lawarner@fcps.edu or 703-541-3603

We look forward to seeing you!

It's Kindergarten Registration Time!

Kindergarten helps children learn and practice the social, emotional, problem-solving, and self-regulation skills they will use throughout their lives. 

Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, in the spring. Eligible children can be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps schools prepare and ensure they have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

If your child will attend our school, please gather necessary documents and complete registration forms as soon as possible. Kindergarten Orientation will be held on Monday, March 23rd from 4:30PM - 6:30pm.  More details forthcoming!

FCPS offers support and resources for all families to help with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For support in other languages, please visit the FCPS Registration webpage. 

FCPS CTE Summer Learning Opportunity!

We're thrilled to invite you to join us for an unforgettable experience at one of the CTE summer enrichment programs! These week-long programs will introduce you to the wonderful world of Career and Technical Education, help you develop new skills, and make new friends.

Our programs offer a wide range of activities designed to spark your curiosity and keep you engaged. You will have the opportunity to learn coding, problem solving, cooking, and more! Our experienced and enthusiastic teachers are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and fun environment where you can challenge yourself and discover new passions.

You can find more details about our programs on our camp websites below:

We are able to offer a limited number of students currently in grades 2-11 at a Code UP! grant school with a one-week registration at no cost! If you are interested in this opportunity, please fill out the interest form linked below by April 15th. CTE Summer Enrichment Interest Form: https://forms.gle/ytfQWmR4MQ6FuvrBA

Families will be notified by the end of April to confirm whether they will receive one of the sponsored seats—students will be chosen by a lottery if there are more interested families than seats available.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact Beth Mehr, CTE Educational Specialist at bgmehr@fcps.edu. We'd be happy to chat with you and your family.

(Please Note- These programs will not be held at Gunston.  Click the links above for more details.)

Run for a Reason: Gunston Trail Run 2026

Support our students by joining the Gunston Trail Run on May 2, 2026, at George Mason's Gunston Hall in Lorton, VA. Whether you are a sprinter or a stroller, we have a race for you: choose from the 1k Fun Run ($20), 5k Trail Run ($35), or 10k Trail Run ($50), with virtual participation options also available. Every registration includes an event shirt and a finisher medal to celebrate your achievement at the finish line. Don't wait—register by the April 17th Early Bird deadline to lock in the best pricing and guarantee your official race shirt!

https://gunstones.fcps.edu/announcements/run-reason

 

run
women's history month

National Women’s History Month

Every year, March is designated Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation. The month is set aside to honor women’s contributions in American history.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Read more about Women’s History Month in National Geographic Kids.

FREE BOOKS, SATURDAY

Reading Opens the World Book Drive

What: Free Book Drive & Family Literacy Fair.

When: Saturday, March 14, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Where: Lorton Community Center (9520 Richmond Hwy).

For Families: Get up to 10 free books per child (30 max per family). Enjoy a DJ, arts & crafts, and free LEGO boxes while supplies last.

For Educators: Select up to 50 free books for your classroom. Must register (free) at firstbook.org/AFT Books are first-come, first-served—arrive early!

books
spanish free

Budget

County Seeking Budget Input

About 70% of the FCPS budget comes from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. They are currently reviewing the county’s 2027 Fiscal Year Advertised Budget and are considering possible adjustments before the final county budget is adopted in May. Provide the county with feedback on how you would like your tax dollars spent by completing this survey.

Community Conversations

Community Conversations: Share Your Thoughts With Dr. Reid

As a listening leader, connecting with community members across our school division is critical to Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid. Dr. Reid’s Community Conversations are opportunities for you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Events will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted) on: 

Child care and interpretation services will be provided. Events are open to all. Visit the superintendent’s engagement page for the most up-to-date information.

  • Spanish:Conversaciones con la Comunidad: Comparta su Opinión con la Dra. Reid
  • Siendo una líder que sabe escuchar, la Dra. Reid considera muy importante conectarse e involucrarse con miembros de la comunidad en toda la división escolar. Sus reuniones Conversaciones con la Comunidad representan oportunidades para que comparta sus ideas y opiniones y para que haga las preguntas que tenga. Los eventos se realizarán en estas fechas, durante la primavera (de 6:30 a 7:30 p.m. a menos se notifiquen cambios):

Se ofrecerán servicios de Cuidado de Niños y de Traducción. Estos eventos están abiertos para todas las personas. Visite la página de participación comunitaria de la superintendente para que encuentre la información más reciente.

pre-K

Pre-K and Early Head Start

Pre-K and Early Head Start Programs 

FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying children with economic and educational risk factors, ages 6 weeks to 4 years, living in Fairfax County. 

  • Pre-K prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children who will be 3 years old by September 30 of the same year.
  • Early Head Start is located at three elementary schools — Clearview, Crestwood, and Dogwood — and accepts applications from pregnancy to 2 years old.

Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible; space is limited and provided based on need, not on a first-come, first-served basis.

Applications are accepted online, by email, by mail, or in person at the program office at 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia 22042.  

If you have a question about the application process or status, please call 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish).

Programas para Pre-K y de Atención Integral para la Primera Infancia 

Los programas para Pre-K y de Atención Integral para la Primera Infancia proveen experiencias educativas tempranas de alta calidad a niños que califiquen para ellos, que enfrenten factores de riesgos económicos y educacionales, que estén entre las edades de 6 semanas a 4 años, y que vivan en el Condado de Fairfax. 

  • Los programas para Pre-K priorizan aquellos solicitantes de 4 años de edad, pero también acepta solicitudes para niños que cumplan 3 años antes del 30 de septiembre del mismo año.
  • Los programas de Atención Integral para la Primera Infancia están ubicados en tres escuelas primarias; Clearview, Crestwood y Dogwood, y acepta solicitudes de cupo desde el embarazo y hasta los 2 años de edad.

Animamos a las familias a solicitar cupos lo más pronto posible; el espacio es limitado y se otorga basado en el nivel de necesidad, no en el orden de llegada.

Las solicitudes se aceptan de forma online, por email, por correo, o en persona en la oficina del programa en la dirección 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia 22042.  

Si tiene preguntas acerca del proceso de solicitud o sobre el estatus del suyo, por favor llame en inglés al 703-208-7900, o en español al 703-208-7901.

2026 Special Education Family Conference banner

Special Education Family Conference

2026 Special Education Family Conference: RescheduledFCPS’ 2026 Special Education Family Conference has been rescheduled to Saturday, April 18, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Marshall High School. Updated conference details are now available on the Special Education Family Conference webpage. Please register for the event. If you registered before, please re-register for the new date. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this date change may cause and appreciate your understanding.

Measles

Fairfax County Health Department Measles Update

Measles is a highly contagious virus that infects 9 out of 10 people who are exposed, if unvaccinated or not immune. It has been in the news lately due to cases in Northern Virginia and among people who have traveled through local airports. 

If your spring break or summer plans include traveling abroad or to an area in the United States with high measles activity, the Fairfax County Health Department encourages you to ensure your family is protected. Children 12 months and older should have 1 or 2 doses before traveling. Depending on your specific travel plans, your health care provider may also advise you to vaccinate infants 6 to 11 months old. Read more about these recommendations. 

Cell Phone Reminder

Phones Off, Learning On

FCPS’ cell phone policy helps students focus, learn, and engage. When students put their phones away, they have more face-to-face interactions with their peers and teachers and more opportunities to develop resilience and problem-solving skills. Please remind your child that:

  • Cell phones and personal devices (earbuds, headsets, other items connected to the internet) must be off and away for the entire school day (bell to bell).
  • Smart watches that serve a dual purpose may be worn, but the phone features (texting, Internet viewing, and calls) are to be off when phone use is prohibited.

If you need to contact your child during the school day, please call our front office at 703-541-3600. Visit our cell phone policy webpage for more information and answers to frequently asked questions.

Family Engagement Survey

Family Engagement Survey to Open March 9

FCPS is administering our Family Engagement Survey, which will be open from Monday, March 9, to Monday, March 23. Your feedback is critical in helping us to better recognize, understand, respect, and address family strengths and needs in our schools. 

Survey topics include:

  • Welcoming environment.
  • Communication.
  • Student success.
  • Advocacy.
  • Family and school partnerships.
  • Community partnerships.

The survey will be available in English, Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Pashto, Spanish, Urdu, and Vietnamese. 

Parents/caregivers will receive a survey link via email from FCPS on March 9. A survey link will also be posted on FCPS’ website. Paper surveys will be available at each school. Please stay tuned for more information.

 

La Encuesta sobre la Participación Familiar Abrirá el 9 de Marzo

En FCPS estaremos enviando nuestra tercera Encuesta sobre la Participación Familiar, la cual estará disponible a partir del lunes 9 de marzo y hasta el lunes 23 de marzo. Su opinión es muy importante para ayudarnos a reconocer, entender, respetar y enfrentar mejor las fortalezas y necesidades de las familias de nuestras escuelas. 

Los temas en la encuesta incluyen:

  • Ambiente acogedor.
  • Comunicación.
  • Éxito estudiantil.
  • Activismo.
  • Asociaciones entre la familia y la escuela.
  • Asociaciones con la comunidad.

La encuesta estará disponible en Inglés, Amárico, Árabe, Chino, Farsi, Coreano, Pastún, Español, Urdu y Vietnamita. 

Los padres y tutores recibirán la encuesta enviada por FCPS vía email, el 9 de marzo. El link de la encuesta también será publicado en la página web de FCPS. Encuestas impresas estarán disponibles en cada escuela. Por favor, manténgase al tanto para que reciba más información.

Summer Learning

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.

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp that allows current K-5 students to explore STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Watch this video about CTE camps. Registration is open through Friday, June 5.

Elementary Institute for the Arts (E-IFTA) is a weekly fine and performing arts camp for students in grades K-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students attend four daily classes in dance, music, theater, and visual arts and work with experienced educators who create engaging, fun classes. 

New this year: Students in the above camps can also register for aftercare, which is available from 2 to 5 p.m.

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

If you prefer to have an abbreviated way to share district news, consider sharing the language below in your newsletter. Please edit the list of topics to best fit the needs of your community.

Newsletters:

  • FCPS NewsIn case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:
  • Family Engagement Survey
  • Kindergarten Registration
  • No School on April 21

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.