The BULLS Bulletin (Spring Break Edition / Week of 04/06)

An artwork of the Bull Run Elementary School grounds

Newsletter header: Bull Bulletin.  We see you. We welcome you. You belong here.

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Principal's Message:

Hello Bull Run Families,

I hope you are all having a restful Spring break and hopefully have been able to do something fun!  I have been able to spend some quality time with my family but for the most part, when I haven't been on the clock, we have been trying to contain our dog as she recovers from surgery.  For anyone who has a puppy or any energetic dog for that matter, that demands full affection and attention at all times, it can be a challenge to keep them calm and prevent them from doing all the things they are used to doing in order to be with their people and live their normal life.  We are surviving 🙂

As we begin the fourth and final quarter, we are excited to finish the year strong! Our students will be preparing for the SOL assessments, and we encourage them to stay focused, do their best, and feel confident in all they have learned.

Families can help by supporting good routines, rest, and practice at home.

Let’s also continue to be kind, respectful, and supportive of one another as we close out the year on a positive #chargerSTRONG note.

Thank you for your continued support!

Reminders:

Monday April 06, is a Teacher Workday and there is no school for students.

Have a wonderful rest of your Spring Break!

-Mr. Marotta

 


upcoming events

 

March 30-April 03: Spring Break (NO SCHOOL)

April 01: National Paraprofessional Day

April 04: National School Librarian Day

April 05: Easter

April 06: Teacher Workday (NO SCHOOL)

April 12: Orthodox Easter

April 13: SCA Fun Run part 2 (5th grade only)

April 15: Purple Up! Day

April 16: Theravada New Year / Candid pictures for the yearbook/6th Grade Panoramic Picture

April 17: PTA Variety Show/Staff Masked Singer- Bull Run’s Got Talent!  5:30pm

April 18: Field Day for Military Families (Annandale HS, 12:00pm)

April 20: Full-Time AAP Orientation, 5:30pm

April 21: VA Statewide Election Day (NO SCHOOL)

April 22: Administrative Professionals Day / Volunteer Appreciation Day / Spring Chorus Concert, 7:00pm / PTA Chick-Fil-A Spirit Night

April 23: PTA Meeting

April 28: Bus Driver Appreciation Day

April 30: Kindergarten Orientation, 5:30pm

 

Bright orange background with text highlighting Arab American Heritage Month

National Arab American Heritage Month

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.

 

 

Purple background with the FCPS logo with the hashtag for purple up FCPS

Month of the Military Child

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.

 

 

Image of a cloud and a rainbow with text

Autism Acceptance Month

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.


*The full FCPS 2025-2026 calendar can be accessed here.

School Year Calendar

See the complete school year calendar to keep track of school holidays, breaks, and observances.

  • Days marked with blue Hs are student holidays. 
  • Days marked with orange Os are religious and cultural observance days (or evenings if only half marked). 
  • Days marked in pink are holidays for students, but working days for teachers and staff.

HIGHLIGHTS AND WHAT'S NEW AT BULL RUN


Starting April 6, you will receive an email with a link to the FCPS Principal Evaluation Staff Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the Performance Evaluation Program and provides an opportunity for you to share anonymous feedback on key areas of our school, including:

  • Instructional Leadership
  • School Climate
  • Management (human resources and organizational)
  • Communication and Community Relations
  • Culturally Responsive and Equitable Leadership
  • Professionalism

The survey 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 feedback is valuable – thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts!


cartoon bulls running

 

The SCA Fun Run is Almost Here!

Our SCA Fun Run Fundraiser is officially happening on April 9th during each grade level's recess.

  • When: Thursday, April 9th (5th grade only on April 13th)

  • Rain Date: Monday, April 13th

  • The Mission: This year, our goal is to Support Student Social/Emotional Wellness.

Every lap run helps us provide better resources for our students' well-being. Proceeds will go towards creating equitable access to snacks during the school day for students, as well as purchase incentives for students to redeem using their Charger Bucks! 

How the Fun Run Works:

  • Students will run or walk laps during their recess time (participation is optional)
  • Total laps completed will be sent home after the run
  • Students can go at their own pace and take breaks as needed, or choose to play at recess as usual

Donations:

  • Families may choose a flat donation amount that works best for them OR family members and friends can pledge a specific amount per lap completed
  • Please return the yellow donation slip with all donations by April 24th
  • You can also donate using My School Bucks

    https://www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/getmain.action

  • Additional information can be found on the blue flyer  that was sent home on 03/25/26.

    Quick Reminder: Don't forget to check the color chart below in the Spirit Days section so that your student is decked out in their grade-level colors for the big event!


    Volunteers Needed
    We will need volunteers to help make this event run smoothly. More information on how to sign up will be shared soon.

    Thank you for your continued support—we’re looking forward to a fun, energetic, and colorful day!


PTA NEWS, CLUBS AND OTHER COMMUNITY EVENTS


PTA logo and open positions

Join the Bull Run PTA Board for the 2026-27 School Year!

Do you want to have a direct hand in making Bull Run Elementary an even better place for our kids? We are officially looking for parent and teacher volunteers to join our 2026-27 PTA Board!

Open Positions Include:

President

Secretary

Treasurer

Marketing Coordinator

VP of Programs

VP of Ways and Means

Teacher Liaisons & Members at Large


Wendys logo with a cartoon burger

Mark your calendars and skip the cooking! Join us for a delicious way to support Bull Run Elementary. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or bringing the whole family for dinner, your meal helps our school.

When: Tuesday, April 7th

Time: All day long (12:00 AM – 11:30 PM)

Where: Wendy’s at 14106 Westview Drive


different examples of art works

Get ready to be inspired! Bull Run Elementary is proud to join several of our neighboring schools for the Centreville and Westfield Pyramid Art Shows. This is a wonderful opportunity to see the incredible creative talent of our students showcased alongside middle and high school artists

 

pictures of different types of art works

 

When:

*Wednesday, April 08th-Westfield High School (5:00pm-7:00pm)

*Thursday, April 9th-Centreville High School (4:30pm-6:30pm)


talent show information displayed with a picture of a microphone

 

Bull Run’s Got Talent! 

It’s time to Be Bold and Be Heard! Come out and support your classmates at our upcoming talent show. It’s going to be an unforgettable evening filled with music, entertainment, and lots of fun!

Here’s the lineup:

  • Talent Show: See amazing student performances!

  • Teacher Masked Singer: Can you guess who's behind the mask?

  • BRES Art Showcase: Explore the incredible artwork from our students.

    Event Details:

  • Date: Friday, April 17, 2026

  • Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM (Doors open at 5:00 PM)

  • Food: Snacks and food will be available for purchase!

    *Note: This is NOT a drop-off event. Parents must stay with their children.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to semarshall@fcps.edu.

We can't wait to see you there!


picture of legos with text

Unleash your child’s inner engineer with Play-Well TEKnologies! Students will get hands-on with tens of thousands of LEGO® pieces to explore STEM concepts like physics and architecture through fun, seasonally rotated projects.

When: Tuesdays, 4:15 PM – 5:15 PM

Dates: April 7 – May 19

Cost: $120 per student

Who can join?

Open to all students in Grades K-5.

How to Sign Up: Visit play-well.org to register. 


Just Dance after school program flyer

Does your child love to perform, or maybe they just need a little boost in confidence? Our PTA is thrilled to partner with Not Just Dance for a 6-week After School Theatre Program right here at Bull Run!

Your kids will dive into improv games, role-playing, and creative movement in a high-energy, supportive environment.

When: Wednesdays, 4:15 PM – 5:15 PM

Dates: April 08 – June 10 (6 weeks total)

Cost: $90 per student

Deadline to Register: April 06

Classes are first-come, first-served, so don't wait! You can register and pay online at notjustdance.net. For questions, give them a call at 571-392-3209.


art class flyer

Get ready to create! Kids and Masters is returning to Bull Run Elementary for a fun-filled Spring Session. Open to all grade levels, these after-school classes are the perfect way for your child to explore their creativity.

When: Thursdays, 4:15 – 5:30 PM (Starting April 9).

Where: Art Room 226.

Cost: $153 for the session (Materials included!).

Special Deals: 20% off for staff children and 10% off for siblings.

Space is limited to 20 students, so don’t wait!

Register now at: kids-and-masters-art.square.site


picture of a piano with text

Musically Creative is offering 7-week sessions right here at school. No need to lug a heavy keyboard around—they are all provided!

When: Tuesdays, 4:15 PM – 5:15 PM

Dates: April 14 – June 9

Cost: $140 for 7 weeks

Who can join?

-New Beginners (Grades 3-6): For those with zero experience.

-Returning Students (Grades 1-3): For those who have taken a previous class.

How to Sign Up: Register by Tuesday, April 7 at www.MusicallyCreative.com. If you have questions, send an email to admin@musicallycreative.com.


Yearbook pre order form

Pre-orders for the '25-'26 Bull Run Elementary Yearbook are officially open. Buying early ensures your student gets their copy before they sell out.

Deadline: Order by April 26

Yearbook ID: 15367026

How to Order: Head to ybpay.lifetouch.com and use the ID code above.


technology pictures floating in the sky

Join Ms. Kiehlmeier at TECHSTRAVAGANZA!

Event Location: Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026

Time: 10 AM to 4 PM

Cost: FREE

 

Registration: Thomas Jefferson HS is asking families to register to get a better estimate of how many lab materials to prepare for the day.

For more information and to register please visit the link: https://techstrav.org/


Spring Sports SYA Multi Sports pictures

Spring Multi-Sport Clinic

Perfect for a quick skills boost! This one-day clinic covers a variety of sports in a high-energy environment.

When: April 19, 2026

Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Who: Grades 1–6

 

Spring multi sports SYA camp

Summer Multi-Sport Camp

Keep the momentum going all summer long at the SYA Sports Park. These camps are designed for all skill levels and are a great way to make new friends.

When: Sessions running in June & July

Options: Half-day and full-day sessions available

Who: Groups for Grades 1–3 and 4–6

 

Ready to play? Head over to syasports.org to grab your spot before they fill up!


BULL RUN SPIRIT DAYS


cartoon bulls wearing different color shirts with grade levels underneath

SCA SPIRIT DAY: Show Your Colors: Fun Run & Color Day!

It’s time to get "un-bull-ievabley" awesome! We are gearing up for our school Fun Run, and we want to see a sea of colors! To show our school spirit, each grade level has been assigned a specific color to wear on the big day.

Check the list below to find your student's color:

Grade Level Assigned Color
6th Grade ❤️ Red
5th Grade 💙 Blue
4th Grade 💜 Purple
3rd Grade 💚 Green
2nd Grade 🧡 Orange
1st Grade 💗 Pink
Kindergarten 💛 Yellow
Preschool 🌈 Rainbow
Bull Run Logo

 

BULL RUN FRIDAYS!

Bull Run Elementary encourages every student to wear our school colors (blue & white), or school spirit wear every Friday! This is a simple way we can show our community pride! Make a plan with friends and see how many of you can participate! Staff often wear their blue and white or Spirit Wear on Fridays too!

https://bullrun.deco-apparel.com/  Order Bull Run Spirit Wear at any time throughout the school year!

 

 

Jersey Day

Jersey Day!  Every First Friday of the Month!

Bull Run Elementary encourages every student and staff member to wear a jersey, shirt or colors of their favorite team or sport!


CURRICULUM UPDATES AND INFORMATION


Subjects on books

Grade Level Curriculum 2025-2026


A painting of a person, the Eifel tower and a stack of books

BENCHMARK UPDATE

Uncovering History in Language Arts 

Benchmark Unit 7 in Language Arts is about the past, present, and future. Students in K-5 will be learning about history, culture, and geography. Grade six students will learn about the achievements of ancient cultures.

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

  • Question: If you could visit any time in history, when and where would you go?
  • Activity: Walk around or think about your neighborhood and talk about how the buildings or other features have changed over time. How might it look in the future?

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.


FCPS NEWS AND RESOURCES


cares

 

Recognizing BRES staff who go above and beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for families, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees at Bull Run Elementary. We love our staff members; let's tell them how we feel!

 


Dr. Reid talks to community members

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.


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. 


SOLace Flyer

 

SOLace uses past test questions from officially released SOLs and contains intuitive explanations for each question, helping students learn and grow through their practice. Its user-friendly design and advanced accessibility features make it suitable for all students. Visit learnsolace.org today to see how SOLace turns practice into progress.


 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors

Tutoring Resources for Families

Some families may be looking for additional resources to help support their child’s academic success. The FCPS Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of FCPS employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to hire as tutors. This list is a resource offered by the FRC, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with the tutors. This list is not approved by FCPS and is only meant to be a resource to families.


resources

Get to Know FCPS and the Resources Available to Families

Being connected to your school community helps you stay informed and support your child’s success. Take some time to get familiar with the many resources and tools available to FCPS families, including:

  • School Age Child Care (SACC) – This Fairfax County government program provides a safe and fun environment before and after school for elementary school-age children.
  • FCPS Communications for Families – FCPS shares news and information to support student learning and promote family involvement.
  • Family Academy – Where families can learn and get support for their child's school journey.  Learn more on our website.
  • Do You Know About Family Liaisons Family liaisons serve as a link between families and schools. Find out how family liaisons can support you and your family.

phone

Parent Information Lines Available in Eight Languages

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. View the list of phone numbers.


FCPSlogo

FCPS This Week

In case you missed it


FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA!


informed

 Follow us to see photos and videos from our classrooms and connect with other families.

Facebook: FCPS Bull Run Elementary School
Instagram: bullrunelem
PTA Facebook: BullRunESPTA
BRES Website: https://bullrunes.fcps.edu/
PTA Website: https://bullrun.memberhub.com/

Bull Run Special Olympics Instagram: BullRunESSpecialOlympics 


Charger Strong Behavior Attributes

#chargerSTRONG 

Bull Run Logo
Administration (Mr. Marotta, Mrs. Campbell and Mrs. Rozzoni)

 

Mr. Marotta, Mrs. Campbell and Mrs. Rozzoni are proud of our #chargerSTRONG community!


 Want to view previous Bull Run Bulletins? Click here.