Weekly Wave: March 26

Principal's Message

Lake Anne Families,

We wish all of our families a wonderful and well-deserved break! We hope this time brings opportunities to rest, relax, and enjoy meaningful moments together. Whether you’re staying close to home or traveling, we wish you a safe, healthy, and joy-filled time with your loved ones.

As we head into the break, we also want to celebrate the progress we’re making together—our chronic absenteeism rate has improved to 12.7%. We’re grateful for your continued support in making attendance a priority. We look forward to welcoming everyone back on April 7th, refreshed and ready to make a strong final push toward getting our rate below 10%.

Thank you for your partnership and for all you do to ensure your child is at school each day, ready to learn. We’re excited to finish the year strong—together!

Warmly,

Mrs. Jill Stewart, Principal
Mrs. Valencia Chenier, Assistant Principal
Mrs. Leslie Grumbach, Assistant Principal


Important School Events

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  • March 30th - April 3rd
    • Spring Break
  • April 6th
    • Teacher Workday
    • Student Holiday
  • April 10th
    • School Planning Day
    • Student Holiday
    • Kindergarten Orientation, 2:00 p.m.
  • April 14th
    • Body Safety Program Family Information Night, 6:00 p.m.
  • April 17
    • 6th Grade Basketball Game against Forest Edge

New Student Safety Program

Speak Up Be Safe

Lake Anne is excited to announce that we will be hosting the Body Safety Program during the week of June 1st – June 5th. We are joining over 30 schools across Fairfax County in implementing this research-based curriculum designed to empower our students.

About the Program

Trained facilitators from the Department of Family Services (DFS) will visit our classrooms to lead age-appropriate lessons from the Speak Up Be Safe prevention education curriculum. These sessions (lasting 45–60 minutes) focus on teaching children practical skills to:

  • Identify and prevent bullying and neglect.
  • Interrupt cycles of child abuse.
  • Build the confidence to speak up to trusted adults.

Save the Date: Family Information Night

We understand that parents may have questions about the curriculum and how these topics are handled. We invite you to join us for a presentation led by DFS staff:

  • When: Tuesday, April 14th @ 6:00 PM
  • Where: In-person (School Cafeteria) or Virtually (Link to be sent via email)
  • Recording: For those unable to attend, the session will be recorded and shared afterward.

Next Steps & Opt-Out Information

Following the family presentation on April 14th, we will distribute detailed information sheets and opt-out forms to all families. Our entire staff will also be undergoing training on April 8th to ensure we are fully prepared to support our students through this program.

Note: Our goal is to partner with you to keep our children safe, informed, and empowered. We look forward to seeing you on April 14th!

 

 

Speak Up Be Safe (Habla y Mantente Seguro)

La Escuela Lake Anne se complace en anunciar que estaremos implementando el Programa de Seguridad Corporal durante la semana del 1 al 5 de junio. Nos unimos a más de 30 escuelas en el condado de Fairfax para implementar este currículo basado en la investigación, diseñado para empoderar a nuestros estudiantes.

Sobre el Programa

Facilitadores capacitados del Departamento de Servicios para la Familia (DFS) visitarán nuestras aulas para impartir lecciones apropiadas para la edad del currículo de prevención Speak Up Be Safe. Estas sesiones (de 45 a 60 minutos) se enfocan en enseñar a los estudiantes habilidades prácticas para:

  • Identificar y prevenir el acoso escolar y la negligencia.
  • Interrumpir ciclos de abuso infantil.
  • Desarrollar la confianza para hablar con adultos de confianza.

Reserve la fecha: Noche Informativa para Familias

Entendemos que las familias pueden tener preguntas sobre el currículo y cómo se abordan estos temas. Los invitamos a participar en una presentación dirigida por el personal de DFS:

  • Cuándo: martes 14 de abril a las 6:00 p. m.
  • Dónde: en persona (cafetería de la escuela) o de manera virtual (el enlace se enviará por correo electrónico)
  • Grabación: para quienes no puedan asistir, la sesión será grabada y compartida posteriormente

Próximos pasos e información para exclusión (opt-out)

Después de la presentación familiar del 14 de abril, distribuiremos hojas informativas detalladas y formularios de exclusión a todas las familias. Además, todo nuestro personal recibirá capacitación el 8 de abril para asegurar que estemos completamente preparados para apoyar a nuestros estudiantes durante este programa.

Nota: Nuestro objetivo es colaborar con ustedes para mantener a nuestros niños seguros, informados y empoderados. ¡Esperamos verlos el 14 de abril!


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.

No hay clases para estudiantes

No habrá clases para estudiantes el martes, 21 de abril, debido a las elecciones estatales de Virginia. Las actividades estudiantiles, prácticas deportivas y eventos pueden continuar según lo programado.

Las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Fairfax (FCPS) aún superarán el número requerido de horas de instrucción para los estudiantes, según lo establecido por el Departamento de Educación de Virginia.


April 22 Update

Due to the newly announced special election, Tuesday, April 21st is now scheduled as a teacher workday and staff development day.

With that in mind, the previously scheduled early release day on Wednesday, April 22nd has been converted to a full day of instruction. Students will be released at the regular dismissal time.

We undertsnad that changes to the schedule can affect family routines and appreciate your flexibility and understanding.

Read Dr. Reid’s letter to elementary parents for more details.

 

Debido a la elección especial recientemente anunciada, el martes 21 de abril ahora está programado como un día de trabajo para maestros y desarrollo profesional del personal.

Con esto en cuenta, el día de salida temprana previamente programado para el miércoles 22 de abril se ha convertido en un día completo de instrucción. Los estudiantes saldrán a la hora habitual de salida.

Entendemos que los cambios en el horario pueden afectar las rutinas familiares y agradecemos su flexibilidad y comprensión.

Lea la carta del Dr. Reid dirigida a los padres de primaria para obtener más detalles.


Stuff the Bus

Kinder Orientation

Weather Safety

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.

 

Compromiso de FCPS con la seguridad ante el clima

En FCPS, la seguridad de nuestros estudiantes, personal y visitantes es nuestra máxima prioridad, sin importar la temporada. Durante el frío extremo, monitoreamos las orientaciones del Servicio Nacional de Meteorología (NWS), ajustamos las actividades al aire libre y nos aseguramos de que nuestros edificios estén cálidos y seguros. En condiciones de calor extremo, modificamos o cancelamos las actividades al aire libre, utilizamos mediciones en el lugar para orientar las decisiones deportivas y promovemos la hidratación y los descansos para refrescarse.

FCPS cuenta con planes para brindar orientación durante condiciones meteorológicas severas, incluidas tormentas, inundaciones y tornados. Las decisiones se basan en las mejores prácticas del sector, las alertas meteorológicas y el compromiso de mantener a nuestra comunidad escolar segura y saludable durante todo el año. Lea más sobre la seguridad ante el clima, incluidas las diferencias entre un aviso, una vigilancia y una advertencia.


Language Arts Updates

📚 Halfway Through Journeys and Themes in Language Arts 📚

We are halfway through Benchmark Unit 6 in Language Arts! Across grade levels, students have explored stories involving quests, challenges, and problem solving. 

Connect with your child’s learning at school with these fun questions and hands-on activities at home:

  • Question: Which character has been your favorite from this unit and why?
  • Activity: With your child, brainstorm a brand-new invention to solve a problem, like shoelaces that tie themselves or a clothes dryer that folds clothes. Ask your child to tell or write a story about someone using the invention. 

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.


📚 A mitad de las aventuras y temas en Artes del Lenguaje 📚

¡Estamos a mitad de la Unidad 6 de Benchmark en Artes del Lenguaje! En todos los grados, los estudiantes han explorado historias que incluyen búsquedas, desafíos y resolución de problemas.

Conéctese con el aprendizaje de su hijo/a en la escuela con estas preguntas divertidas y actividades prácticas en casa:

  • Pregunta: ¿Qué personaje ha sido tu favorito de esta unidad y por qué?
  • Actividad: Con su hijo/a, piensen en una invención completamente nueva para resolver un problema, como cordones que se atan solos o una secadora que dobla la ropa. Pídale a su hijo/a que cuente o escriba una historia sobre alguien usando esa invención.

Al final de la unidad, su hijo/a llevará a casa la revista de la unidad. La revista incluye un calendario de actividades con formas divertidas de ayudar a los estudiantes a desarrollar lo que están aprendiendo en cada grado. También puede encontrar información sobre cómo apoyar la lectura de su hijo/a en casa en el sitio web de Benchmark Families.


Order Yearbooks!

Order Your Child’s Yearbook by April 10th for $15.00.

Online Code: YB32349 at www.strawbridge.net.

For security, you will need your child’s last name and student ID number.

 

Ordene el anuario de su hijo(a) antes del 10 de abril por $15.00.

Código en línea: YB32349 en www.strawbridge.net.

Por razones de seguridad, necesitará el apellido de su hijo(a) y su número de identificación estudiantil.


FCPS Budget

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.


New Menu Items

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.


Special Education Family Conference

2026 Special Education Family Conference: Rescheduled

FCPS’ 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.


Summer Learning

Prepare for Summer Learning and Fun for StudentsRegistration 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 CampsCareer 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.


Food Assistance and Resource Guide

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. Learn how to help and discover the many resources available to support those who need food assistance or shelter. View the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

La incertidumbre alimentaria afecta a más de 96,000 residentes del Condado de Fairfax. Sepa cómo puede ayudar y descubra los muchos recursos que están disponibles para aquellos que necesiten asistencia alimentaria o refugio. Revise la Guía de Servicios de Recursos Humanos.

 


Food Pantries

  • South Lakes Food Pantry:
    • Where: Outside the main entrance (Door #1) at South Lake High School
    • When: Thursdays between 4:30 PM and 5:00 PM
    • What: Bags of non-perishable items as well as fresh produce, meat, bread, and household items
  • Saint Anne’s Food Pantry:
    • Where: 1700 Wainwright Dr., Reston, VA 20190
    • When: Every 3rd Thursday of the month between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM
    • What: One bag of groceries and one bag of personal care items to each person
  • Tzu Chi Foundation:
    • Where: 1516 Moorings Dr., Reston, VA 20190
    • When: Every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM
    • What: Food items including fresh produce and dry goods
  • Community of Faith UMC:
    • Where: 13224 Franklin Farm Rd., Herndon, VA 20171
    • When: Tuesdays between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM
    • What: Food items including meat and refrigerated goods
  • Food for Others:
    • Where: Draper Dr & Kingsbridge Dr, Oakton, VA, 22031
    • When: Monday and Thursday, 6:00 p.m.

Capital Area Food Bank is committed to providing food for our neighbors in need, throughout the year and in unexpected moments of economic hardship.


Additional Resources

  • Despensa de Alimentos de South Lakes:
    Dónde: Afuera de la entrada principal (Puerta #1) en South Lakes High School
    Cuándo: Los jueves entre las 4:30 PM y las 5:00 PM
    Qué: Bolsas con alimentos no perecederos, así como productos frescos, carne, pan y artículos para el hogar
  • Despensa de Alimentos de Saint Anne’s:
    Dónde: 1700 Wainwright Dr., Reston, VA 20190
    Cuándo: Cada tercer jueves del mes entre las 12:00 PM y la 1:00 PM
    Qué: Una bolsa de comestibles y una bolsa de artículos de cuidado personal por persona
  • Fundación Tzu Chi:
    Dónde: 1516 Moorings Dr., Reston, VA 20190
    Cuándo: Cada primer y tercer sábado del mes entre las 10:00 AM y las 11:00 AM
    Qué: Alimentos, incluyendo productos frescos y productos secos
  • Community of Faith UMC:
    Dónde: 13224 Franklin Farm Rd., Herndon, VA 20171
    Cuándo: Los martes entre las 4:00 PM y las 6:00 PM
    Qué: Alimentos, incluyendo carne y productos refrigerados

  • Despensa de Alimentos de South Lakes
    Dónde: Afuera de la entrada principal (Puerta #1) en South Lakes High School
    Cuándo: Los jueves entre las 4:30 PM y las 5:00 PM
    Qué: Bolsas con alimentos no perecederos, así como productos frescos, carne, pan y artículos para el hogar
  • Despensa de Alimentos de Saint Anne’s
    Dónde: 1700 Wainwright Dr., Reston, VA 20190
    Cuándo: Cada tercer jueves del mes entre las 12:00 PM y la 1:00 PM
    Qué: Una bolsa de comestibles y una bolsa de artículos de cuidado personal por persona
  • Fundación Tzu Chi
    Dónde: 1516 Moorings Dr., Reston, VA 20190
    Cuándo: Cada primer y tercer sábado del mes entre las 10:00 AM y las 11:00 AM
    Qué: Alimentos, incluyendo productos frescos y productos secos
  • Community of Faith UMC
    Dónde: 13224 Franklin Farm Rd., Herndon, VA 20171
    Cuándo: Los martes entre las 4:00 PM y las 6:00 PM
    Qué: Alimentos, incluyendo carne y productos refrigerados

Community Opportunities

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FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:

  • School Weather Safety
  • Science Fair Winners
  • Summer Internships at FCPS

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

 

En caso de que se lo haya perdido en FCPS This Week, el distrito escolar compartió actualizaciones sobre los siguientes temas:

  • Seguridad escolar ante el clima
  • Ganadores de la feria de ciencias
  • Pasantías de verano en FCPS

Lea FCPS This Week para obtener más información sobre estos temas. Si aún no recibe este boletín semanal, inscríbase hoy mismo.