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March 27, 2026
Dear Waynewood Families,
What a spectacular way to wrap up the third quarter! Walking through the halls today, I did several double-takes as I was greeted by dozens of "mini-teachers" and quite a few convincing Mrs. Cachine look-alikes. Seeing our students embrace "Dress Like a Teacher Day" with such creativity and humor brought a smile to everyone’s face!
Beyond the fashion statements, it has been a great week of learning and growth. Fourth grade traveled to Colonial Williamsburg, bringing their history lessons to life with curiosity and great manners. Closer to home, our first graders spent time in the courtyard planting seedlings.
April is a particularly significant month for our community as we celebrate the Month of the Military Child. We are incredibly proud of our military-connected students and recognize the unique strength and resilience they bring to our classrooms. To show our support, we invite everyone to "Purple Up" by wearing purple every Wednesday throughout the month of April. Additionally, we have a full spirit week planned for April 13–17. More details on those daily themes are coming soon.
Next week is Spring Break, and there will be no school for students. Our school office will also be closed during this time to allow our dedicated staff to recharge with their own families. We look forward to seeing all our Owls back in the building on Tuesday, April 7.
If you find yourself doing some spring cleaning or clearing out closets over the break, our school clinic is currently in need of donations. We are looking for extra pants—for both boys and girls—to keep on hand for those occasional accidents, spills or muddy playground adventures. Any gently used contributions would be greatly appreciated.
Start planning your picture-perfect outfit – Thursday, April 9 is Spring Picture Day! Check your child’s weekly folder for a flyer with more information. Individual and class photos will be taken.
We are excited to welcome the newest members of our nest to Kindergarten Orientation on Friday, April 10. If you have neighbors with children who will be joining us for kindergarten next year, please encourage them to attend and remind them to call the front office to schedule a registration appointment. We can’t wait to meet our future Owls!
I hope this upcoming week provides you with plenty of sunshine, relaxation, and quality time with those you love. Whether you are traveling or enjoying a quiet "staycation," I wish you a refreshing and wonderful Spring Break.
Sincerely,
Katie Cachine, Principal
Alyssa Bonner, Assistant Principal
🌷 Schools and school offices will be closed March 30 to April 3 for spring break. Monday, April 6, is a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. We wish our students and teachers a happy and restful Spring Break! See the complete school year calendar.
April is the Month of the Military Child! Every year we take the opportunity to recognize military-connected youth for their service and contribution to our community. Fairfax County Public Schools is proud to have over 14,000 military-connected youth as a part of our student body. We appreciate the varied life experiences they bring to our school community, and recognize their strength and resilience. Learn more about Month of the Military Child and FCPS resources for military families.
FCPS is proud to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in April. This special month provides an opportunity to recognize the history and valuable contributions of Arab Americans. Arab Americans have ancestry in one of the world’s 22 Arab nations, which are located from northern Africa through western Asia. The people of these nations are ethnically, politically, and religiously diverse but share a common cultural and linguistic heritage. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
April is Autism Acceptance Month. One in 31 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in the United States, according to the CDC. Our schools and staff play a vital role in creating and ensuring inclusive environments that accommodate and affirm autistic students.
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.
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.
CPS 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.
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. on:
Click on a date to register to attend that event. Registration is not required, but it helps with planning, especially for child care and interpretation services. Events are open to all. Visit the superintendent’s engagement page for the most up-to-date information.
After spring break, we have so many exciting events and opportunities coming up through the PTA! Check out the ways to get involved below:
Enrichment Opportunities:
It’s a busy and fun season ahead, and we hope you’ll join us!
Monday, March 30-Friday, April 3- No School, Office Closed (Spring Break)
Monday, April 6-No School (Teacher Work Day)
Friday April 10: No School for Students/Kindergarten Orientation 3:00-4:00pm
Monday, April 13-Friday, April 17: Month of Military Child Spirit Week
Tuesday, April 14: PTA Meeting
Thursday, April 16: PTA Spring Fling
Tuesday, April 21: No School for Students (Statewide Election)
See the complete school year calendar
 West Potomac High School is having a Baseball Youth Night!
Join them at West Potomac on April 17 at 6:30 for the game against Fairfax High School.
Youth wearing a baseball jersey get in free with a paying adult.
There will be free baseball squishies and bracelets while supplies last.
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