"The Belle View Beat"-Belle View ES's Weekly Newsletter-March 27, 2026

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A Message from the Principal

Spring Break

Dear Belle View Families, 

It’s hard to believe that Spring Break is already here and that we are about to begin the fourth quarter of the school year. The time has truly flown by, and we are so proud of all that our students have accomplished so far.

Last week was especially exciting for our community! Ms. Lehner was selected as our Region 3 Outstanding Leader—an incredible and well-deserved honor. She is a passionate advocate for all students, consistently going above and beyond to support our school community. Belle View is truly fortunate to have her leadership, and we could not be more proud of this recognition.

I hope that you and your family enjoy a restful, fun, and well-deserved Spring Break. Whether you are traveling or staying close to home, I hope the time provides an opportunity to relax and recharge. We look forward to welcoming all students back on Tuesday, April 7th, ready for a strong finish to the school year.

Please keep the following important dates in mind:

  • Today, March 27: Two-hour early release. All students will be dismissed at 1:55 p.m.
  • March 30–April 3: Spring Break (no school)
  • April 6: No school for students (Teacher Workday)
  • April 10: No school for students (School Planning Day)

Have a wonderful Spring Break, and Happy Easter to all who celebrate. I look forward to seeing you around the View! 🐾

Principal Pluntke


winner

Ms. Lehner has won Region 3's Outstanding Leader Award.

🍎📚😎SAVE THE DATE!!! 

Kindergarten Orientation is right around the corner.

Wednesday, April 15th at 9:30 AM in our library.

Join us for a brief overview of the registration process, a sneak peek of a day in the life of a kindergartener, and time for Q and A with our kinder team. 

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو


Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) Spring Newsletter

 

Read the Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) Spring Newsletter to learn more about the screening process for AAP services in English and Spanish.  


Countdown to Kindergarten: Supporting a Smooth Transition

Is your child heading to kindergarten this fall? Join FCPS staff for Countdown to Kindergarten, a virtual event designed to help families prepare for this exciting transition! The webinar will take place on Friday, March 27, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

During this webinar, families will learn practical tips and essential information to support their child's smooth and successful start to kindergarten in Fairfax County Public Schools. Register to receive the event link

Kindergarten Registration

There’s an easy five-step process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:

  1. Determine eligibility. 
  2. Identify your local school. 
  3. Gather documents. 
  4. Fill out forms. 
  5. Schedule an appointment (the student and one caregiver must be present).

Read more about the registration process.


Elementary Early Release Wednesday Update for April

Tuesday, April 21, is now a teacher workday and staff development day because of a recently announced special election that will impact all FCPS schools.

Students will have a traditional full day of instruction and be released at the regular dismissal time on April 22 and April 29, which were previously early release Wednesdays for elementary schools.

This adjustment allows our staff to still have dedicated time for planning, collaboration, and professional learning without reducing instructional time on other school days.Read Dr. Reid’s letter to elementary parents for more details.


FCPS Commitment to Weather Safety

At FCPS, the safety of our students, staff, and visitors is our highest priority — no matter the season. In extreme cold, we monitor National Weather Service (NWS) guidance, adjust outdoor activities, and ensure our buildings are warm and secure. In extreme heat, we modify or cancel outdoor activities, use on-site measurements to guide athletic decisions, and promote hydration and cooling breaks. 

FCPS has plans in place to provide guidance during severe weather, including storms, flooding, and tornadoes. Decisions are informed by industry best practices, weather alerts, and a commitment to keeping our school community safe and healthy year-round. Read more about weather safety, including the differences between an advisory, watch, and warning.


bb

Basketball camp for 5th and 6th grade students hosted at West Potomac High School.


Provide the County Government With Feedback on Its Budget

About 70% of the FCPS budget comes from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. The Board of Supervisors is reviewing the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Advertised Budget and considering possible adjustments before adoption in May. Opportunities to provide feedback to the county include Budget Town Hall Meetings airing on Channel 16 on Tuesday, April 7, at 7 p.m., (Springfield District) and Friday, April 10, at 6 p.m., (Franconia District).

You can also provide your input during the county’s Budget public hearings on Tuesday, April 14, at 4 p.m., and Wednesday, April 15, and Thursday, April 16, at 3 p.m. at the Government Center Board Auditorium. Register in advance to speak

Visit the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors website to learn more about the county’s FY 2027 Budget.


Special Education Family Conference: Registration Open, Volunteers Needed

The 2026 Special Education Family Conference, Stronger Together: Connecting Families and Schools, will take place on Saturday, April 18, at Marshall High School. During this no-cost, in-person event, families will have the opportunity to hear a keynote address from internationally renowned educator and advocate, Dr. Shelley Moore, connect to resources and other families, and participate in afternoon sessions. 

FCPS families are invited to register to attend this year’s conference. Childcare, accommodations, and language interpretation are available.

Families are also invited to register to serve as an event volunteer by Thursday, March 19. Volunteer hours will be awarded to student volunteers.

Visit the FCPS 2026 Special Education Family Conference webpage for updates and more details.


military break

Join us for a military connected breakfast!


Discover What’s New on the Menu

FCPS is excited to bring new and flavorful menu items to students while continuing to meet the high nutrition standards you trust. The school division’s registered dietitian team has developed standards to make school meals healthier while still tasting great.

Here’s what students can look forward to:

  • New globally inspired dishes that offer exciting flavors from around the world.
  • Fresh ingredients like whole grains, lean proteins, and plant-based options.
  • Scratch-made items like homemade granola.
  • Vegetarian options, like the meatless Philly melt, which are available alongside classic favorites.

Our goal is to provide balanced, safe, and flavorful meals that support students’ learning, growth, and overall health.

Want to know what’s on the menu? Food and Nutrition Services has menus available.


baroody

CALENDER CHANGE!   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.


We Want Your Feedback! Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Questionnaire

On Monday, April 6, parents and guardians of [School Name] will receive an email with a link to the FCPS Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the Performance Evaluation Program and provides an opportunity to share anonymous feedback about our school’s leadership and environment.

Topics covered in the survey include:

✅ Instructional leadership

✅ School climate

✅ Management (human resources and organizational)

✅ Communication and community relations

✅ Culturally responsive and equitable leadership

✅ Professionalism

The questionnaire will be open April 6 - April 19 and will be collected online. When you receive the email from noreply@fcps.edu, please take a few minutes to complete it. Your input is valuable and helps shape the future of our school. Thank you for your time and feedback!


COMING TO BELLE VIEW...Community Conversations: Share Your Thoughts With Dr. Reid

As a listening leader, connecting with community members across our school division is critical to FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid. Her 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.


A message from our Family Liaison, Mrs. Bartolome


Countdown to Kindergarten Friday, March 27th from 10-11:30 a.m.  Where: Virtual Who: All Families This virtual Fairfax County Public Schools event is designed to help families prepare for this exciting transition. During this webinar, families will learn practical tips and essential information to support a smooth and successful start to kindergarten in FCPS. Register Here

Friends of the Martha Washington Library Book Sale Saturday, March 28th from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.  Where: Martha Washington Library Who: All Families Browse the large selection of books and media for all ages and interests! Proceeds benefit the Martha Washington Library and related activities.

Spring Break…Ready, Set, Go! Monday, March 30th from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.  Where: Sherwood Regional Library Who: Ages 2-10 Speed into Spring Break with a toy car race! Bring your own or borrow one of Sherwood's fastest toy vehicles. No registration required.

Spring Break Movie Matinee: Dog Man Wednesday, April 1st from 3-5:00 p.m.  Where: Sherwood Regional Library Who: All ages Watch Dog Man (2025) and enjoy light refreshments in the meeting room. Dog Man is rated PG. For children and families. Registration is not required, but you may do so below to receive a reminder about the event.

Spring Break Movie Matinee: Zootopia 2 Thursday, April 2nd from 2-3:30 p.m.  Where: Martha Washington Library Who: All ages Bring the whole family for a movie at the library. The library will be showing “Zootopia 2" rated PG.

Capital Area Food Distribution Saturday, April 4th from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  Where: Hybla Valley Community Center Who: All ages Come out for the month free food distribution event, hosted in partnership with the Capital Area Food Bank. **While supplies last.    Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt Saturday, April 11th from 2:30-4:30 p.m.  Where: Huntington Community Center Who: All ages Children and Youth Programs will participate in a community center EGG HUNT with activities, games, and trivia.

BIS Part 4: How to Develop Organizational Skills with Your Child Friday, April 17th from 10-11:30 a.m.  Where: Virtual Who: Parents & Caregivers Join us for a presentation dedicated to building organizational skills. Learn practical tips for setting up effective systems to keep your child on track. Transform frustration into focus and equip your child with the skills they need to be successful and stress-free! Register Here

FCPS Special Education Family Conference Saturday, April 18th from 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.   Where: George C. Marshall High School, 7731 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22043 Who: Families and Caregivers FCPS is pleased to announce the 2026 Special Education Family Conference - Stronger Together: Connecting Families & Schools. This no-cost, in-person event is hosted by Fairfax County Public Schools in collaboration with a host of internal and external community partners. Families will have the opportunity to hear a keynote address from internationally renowned educator and advocate, Dr. Shelley Moore. Following lunch, families will be able to connect with resources and community organizations available in the vendor hall and participate in breakout sessions. Register Here

Military Family Field Day Saturday, April 18th from 12-2:00 p.m.  Where: Annandale High School, 4700 Medford Dr, Annandale, VA 22003 Who: Military Connected Families FCPS is excited to celebrate the Month of the Military Child with a good, old-fashioned field day! We invite all military-connected families with FCPS students to a special field day to honor our military-connected children. Join us for an afternoon of fun and community at Annandale High School on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 12 - 2 p.m.  Head to the football and track stadium to play games and create crafts while food and beverages will be available for purchase to support various FCPS school clubs and organizations. Please contact Katie Server at kaserver@fcps.edu with any questions.   Register Here by Friday, March 27th Spring Fling Saturday, April 18th from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.  Where: Hybla Valley Community Center Who: All Ages Come out for an afternoon of fun, music, and community to welcome warmer weather together. Enjoy games, activities, crafts, and exciting entertainment for all ages. This is a great opportunity to connect with friends, meet new people, and create lasting memories. Don’t miss this fun-filled event to spring into the new season!

Month of the Military Child & Military Families Appreciation Breakfast Wednesday, April 22nd from 9:30-10 a.m. Where: Belle View ES Cafeteria Who: Military Connected Families Come join us as Belle View ES is hosting a Month of the Military Child & Military Families Appreciation Breakfast to recognize all the children and military-connected families in our Bobcat community! RSVP by Monday, April 20th to Mrs. Bartolome via email  (rcbartolome@fcps.edu) or Talking Points.   Literacy Instruction for Students with Significant Disabilities Friday, April 24th from 10-11:30 a.m.  Where: Virtual Who: Parents & Caregivers In this session participants will explore the five components of literacy and corresponding instructional practices designed to support the literacy needs of students with significant cognitive disabilities. Register Here

Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) 2025-26 School Year: October to May - Open Now! Where: In-person Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) partners with parents to prepare their children for success in school. Adult family members of 2-, 3-, and 4-year-olds meet with their instructor for 1 hour each week to learn more about instructing their children at home.

For more information, please complete the interest form.

Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) colabora con los padres para preparar a sus hijos para que tengan éxito en la escuela. Los padres o tutores de niños de 2, 3 y 4 años se reúnen con una instructora durante 1 hora cada semana para aprender más sobre cómo instruir a sus hijos en casa.  Año escolar 2025-26: octubre-mayo – ¡INSCRIPCION ABIERTA

Para más información, complete la forma de interes.

Inova Cares for Families Who: All Ages Providing primary care for all ages, including Medicaid, FAMIS, financial assistance, and uninsured patients. Please call the clinic to schedule an initial well-adult or well-child visit. Locations:

  • Mount Vernon 8101 Hinson Farm Rd., Suite 415 Alexandria, VA 22306 Phone: 703.664.7005 Hours: Monday - Thursday, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Alexandria 4700 King Street, Suite 100 Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 571.665-6599 Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

west po

Pages of Possibility is a student-led literacy event sponsored by students at West Potomac High School.


Weekly Student Success Update

POG

4th graders in Ms. Taylor's class sharing their knowledge about oceans.

 

The fourth graders recently put their Portrait of a Graduate Skills to use by practicing communication, collaboration and critical thinking while reviewing for their 3rd Quarter Oceans Science test.  Students worked in small groups to answer content specific questions, and created Mind Maps to practice vocabulary and reinforce their learning.  Students also utilized their critical and creative thinking skills to consider the real-world problem of pollution in the ocean ecosystem.

Portrait of a Graduate (POG) includes a set of essential life skills that are integrated into instruction so that students are “future ready,” academically engaged and innovative thinkers.  Mind Maps integrate strategies from Project GLAD and AAP to provide students with the opportunity to practice categorizing and reviewing newly learned information.  Students used their POG skills and literacy and science knowledge to synthesize learning with words and pictures to prepare for their upcoming test!


Have a question?  Want to share your students' success? Click Here


PTA

Parents, Families, and Teachers can join today!!

$11 for Individuals/$20 for a Family

Join Today!


calendar reminder graphic

 

March 30-April 3-Spring Break 

April 6-No School For Students/Teacher Work Day

April 10-No School For Students/School Planning Day

April 15th-Kindergarten Orientation 9:30 in the library 

April 21st-No School/Special Election

 


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