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School Hours: 9:15 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday
School building opens for students at 9:00 AM
Office: 703-988-8900
Attendance: 703-988-8989
April 15, 2026
IN THIS ISSUE
- Positivity Project at Virginia Run
- Teacher Appreciation Week
- Advanced Academic Spring Newsletter
- Parent Input Form for 2026-2027 Class Placement
- Transportation Survey - Get2Green
- Kindergarten Registration
- Attendance is Important: Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!
- Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates
- PTA Board for 25-26 School Year
- Viking Dash 2026
- Virginia Run Science Quest
- Family Science Night
- PTA Spring Enrichment Clubs
- PTA Student Newsletter - April 2026
- PTA Fundraisers
- PE Sports Camp - Summer 2026
- Drug Take Back Day
- Important Upcoming Dates
- Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
- Monthly Lunch Menu
Calendar Reminders
4/21 - No school for students
4/29 - Full day for students
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 now 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.
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1. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
Spiral Review of Character Strengths
This week our school community is doing a Spiral Review of the character strengths we’ve been focusing on lately and pausing to reflect on our mindfulness practice. Teaching mindfulness in schools is becoming more common for valid reasons. In one example, researchers at Harvard University following 224 U.S. children between the ages of seven and 15 discovered that the number of children showing “clinically significant signs of depression or anxiety” had more than doubled compared to 2019. Mindfulness lessons for children include a wide range of activities designed to help reduce anxiety and increase focus.
Mindfulness is defined most simply as the art of being self-aware and remaining present in the moment. Research shows that teaching lessons on mindfulness in the classroom can reduce the adverse effects of stress and anxiety by helping students learn to self-regulate emotions, enhance problem-solving skills, and increase their attention, all of which help improve academic performance.
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2. Teacher Appreciation Week
Teacher Appreciation Week is Coming! 🐤💛
My name is Skylar Ha, and I serve as the PTA VP of Social at VRES. We’re excited to celebrate our amazing teachers and staff during Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4–8) with this year’s theme: “Lucky Ducks” — because we are so lucky to have them!
We have a full week of special events planned, and we would truly appreciate your support to make it all possible.
We can’t do this without our amazing community — thank you for your support! 💛
Any support—whether through donations, gifts, or volunteering—will help us create a meaningful and memorable week for our 120 teachers and staff.
👉 Tuesday (May 5) – Grill Lunch Volunteers
Our teachers and staff are invited to a Grill Lunch hosted by the PTA, the Administration Team, and the Office Staff Team.
We need your help to provide side dishes and desserts! Please take a look at the sign up genius for volunteer slots and consider contributing to this special lunch for our Virginia Run teachers.
Virginia Run: 2026 Teacher and Staff Appreciation Grill Lunch
👉 All Other Days (May 4, 6, 7, 8)
Please use the link below to sign up to volunteer, donate, or support where you can for the rest of the days during Teacher Appreciation Week.
Virginia Run Elementary PTA: 2026 Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week
If you have any questions or would like to help in other ways, please feel free to reach out: Skylar Ha [Skylar7981@gmail.com]
Students enjoy lunch outside on a warm spring day!
3. Advanced Academic Spring Newsletter
Please click this link to view the AAP Spring Newsletter. Spanish Translation Link
The newsletter contains information about school based screening and an overview of school based services at Virginia Run ES.
Please contact the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher, Brittany Wade with any questions at bwade@fcps.edu.
4. Parent Input Form for 2026-2027 Class Placement
With the end of the year quickly approaching, we are already looking ahead to next school year. While we look at class placements for the coming year, we want you to be aware of the process. We place students in classrooms based on numerous criteria. Students are grouped so that classrooms are heterogeneous, having a balance of boys and girls, a balance of academic performance and ability, and groups that will allow for the greatest support from our resource teachers.
Classroom teachers will have input into the recommendations for next year, as will our counselors and specialists. Our staff has been told that we will not take requests for particular teachers because we base our placement on instructional criteria and individual student strengths and needs. It is unfair to give special consideration to some parents when it would be impossible to grant requests from all parents. Please be aware also that grade level assignments for staff sometimes change, due to late enrollments or other changes. Staff assignments are determined at the end of the summer. Our staff has been directed not to give out information about placement prior to that time to avoid disappointing parents and students when changes are made.
In addition, we also value parent input. If you feel there is pertinent information to support your child’s success for the upcoming school year, you may submit your input by clicking on this Parent Input Google Form. The parent input forms are due by May 8, 2026. We value and consider your insight into your child’s learning needs. Taken together with teacher input, your feedback informs class placements.
Ms. Arreaza plays Uno with students during a lunch bunch!
5. Transportation Survey - Get2Green💚
Our Get2Green team is learning about Carbon footprints and Greenhouse Gases and how our community can improve our Carbon footprint. If each family could please fill out this survey it would greatly help our team look at the data of our community to see how we can improve our Carbon footprint as a community. We will be making a goal for the Spring Walk/Bike to school day on Wednesday, May 6th. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Ms. Berg at jmberg@fcps.edu.
If you have already filled out this survey you do not need to do so again, THANK YOU!
English: https://forms.gle/gKdN7T2ApaCXbpTi7
Spanish: https://forms.gle/o6bSvF7GZwgUuEku9
6. Kindergarten Registration
There’s an easy five-step process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:
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Determine eligibility.
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Identify your local school.
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Gather documents.
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Fill out forms.
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Schedule an appointment.
After the appointment at the school (the student and one caregiver must be present), the student will be ready for orientation and any other introductory events each school may host. Read more about the registration process.
💻 Try Online Registration
Parents may register their children online for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process. When registering, parents will create (or log in to an existing) SIS ParentVUE account.
7. Attendance is Important: Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!
Any student missing 10% of the school year — that is only 2 days per month on average — for any reason (excused or unexcused) is considered chronically absent and may require additional support or intervention.
As of April 8th, Virginia Run’s Year to Date Chronic Absenteeism is 7.5%, being 2.5% away from being in the yellow zone. As we finish out the remainder of this school year, we will continue to update this percentage with you in hopes that we can join our Westfield pyramid schools for having an acceptable chronic absenteeism rate of 10% or lower.
REQUEST FOR PRE ARRANGED ABSENCE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
FCPS Excused absences include the following reasons: illness, injury, funeral, legal obligations, medical procedures, religious observances, deployment-related absences, or family emergency.
If the reason for this prearranged absence is different from the above, please indicate the reason for the absence. Parents must plan to arrange for their child to complete make-up work, tests, or projects. If the student's planned absences exceed five school days, a parent conference may be required. The conference will include a review of the student's academic and absence record. Students who are absent 15 or more consecutive school days will be withdrawn from enrollment.
Virginia Run Elementary School is committed to providing our students with a high quality education. Academic success relies upon excellent school attendance. Children who come to school on time every day are building critical life skills they will use throughout the rest of their lives. Like strengthening a muscle, building positive attendance habits early on make a difference for our children today and for our adults of tomorrow. Attending school regularly helps children feel better about school and themselves. Virginia Run is teaming up with the other 9 schools in the Westfield Pyramid in an effort to make sure all of our students are in school, on time, each day.
Did you know?
- Regular school attendance in grades preschool through grade 6 makes it more likely that
your child will read on grade level.
scheduling vacations around the school year calendar.
- Absences impact learning: A pattern of absences (whether unexcused or excused) is
one of the main reasons children have lower academic achievement.
- Students who attend 90% or more of the school year are more likely to graduate from
high school on time.
- Absences can mask deeper struggles. For example; absences may be a sign that a
student is losing interest in school, he or she may be struggling with school work or peer
relationships, or possibly facing a medical or mental health concern.
Support is available:
All staff members at Virginia Run ES are committed to supporting attendance. Additional resources can be found online at http://www.fcps.edu/attendance. We know that parents are the experts on their own child and our school team is here to partner and help solve attendance-related concerns.
The school counselor, school social worker, psychologist, and family liaison are available:
Jenna DeKeuster, School Counselor: jldekeuster@fcps.edu
Rachel Wyllie, School Counselor: rlwyllie@fcps.edu
Stephanie Whittaker, Social Worker: swwhittaker@fcps.edu
Jini Kapur, Psychologist: jkapur@fcps.edu
Carolina Chavez, Family Liaison: cchavez@fcps.edu
Mr. Gerstner and Ms. Chavez visited a bus stop this morning!
8. Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates
Welcome NEW Virginia Run Vikings! You are invited to bring your families and come to Virginia Run on August 11, for a tour of the school and to informally meet new friends. The kindergarten session will be from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM and the grades 1-6 session will be from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM. This event will include a bus ride around the neighborhood and a school tour by our very own staff members and administrators, followed by popsicles on the playground. Come out to meet new friends before the first day of school!
9. PTA Board for 25-26 School Year
President - Matthew Reklau - virginiarunpta@gmail.com
Secretary - Laura McAndrews - secretary@vrespta.onmicrosoft.com
Treasurer - Kyle Jewett - treasurer.virginiarunpta@gmail.com
VP Education - Kimberly Wilson - vresvpeducation@gmail.com
VP Fundraising - Amanda Prindle - vresvpfundraising@yahoo.com
VP Social - Skylar Ha - vresvpsocial@gmail.com
10. Viking Dash 2026
The 11th Annual Viking Dash is almost here, and it’s time to get the whole family moving. Whether you want to walk, run, or dance your way through the neighborhood, this is the perfect way to spend a Friday night with the Virginia Run community.
🏃♀️ Event Details
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When: Friday, April 24th, 2026, at 6:00 PM.
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The Course: A 1.7-mile neighborhood route featuring fun (optional) obstacles and a shortcut if you need one.
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The Big Finish: An epic inflatable obstacle slide and a finish line party with a live DJ.
🍕 What’s Included?
Your registration covers more than just the race! Every participant gets:
- An official Viking Dash T-shirt.
- A post-race meal featuring pizza, fresh fruit, and a frozen treat.
- Access to all event activities and the finish line celebration.
📝 Registration & Pricing
- Use the link below for full price registration
https://vrespta.ptboard.com/formvw?store=6379&form=26
Parents are strongly encouraged to participate with their kids—strollers and wheelchairs are more than welcome!
❤️ Supporting Our School
This event is sponsored by the PTA. Funds help provide after-school activities, field trip support, in-school educational events, teacher mini-grants, professional development, stipends, and technology support.
Registration questions? Contact Matthew Reklau at virginiarunpta@gmail.com.
2026 Viking Dash Registration Form - English
2026 Viking Dash Registration Form - Spanish
11. Virginia Run Science Quest
🔬 Calling All Scientists! We’re excited to launch our annual Science Quest Exhibition—a chance for students to showcase their discoveries and creativity!
Project Guidelines: • Choose a science topic to explore • Conduct an experiment + analyze your results • Create a tri‑fold display to be exhibited in the school foyer May 11-May 15 • Students may participate individually or in groups
Important Dates: • April 30: Project registration deadline • May 6: Optional 1–2 min project video due (email video to VRESVPEducation@gmail.com) • May 8, 4–6 PM: Project drop‑off/setup in the foyer • May 11–15: Projects on display in foyer + student videos featured on morning news • May 15: Project pickup (4–6 PM or students may bring home at dismissal)
Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/ScienceQuestForm2026
We hope your scientist joins us for this exciting showcase! Please email Kimberly Wilson with questions: VRESVPEducation@gmail.com
Science Quest 2026 Flyer
Virginia Run staff and students show support for our military families for PurpleUp! Day!
12. Family Science Night
🌟 Family Science Night Is Coming to Our School! 🌟
Join us for an exciting Family Science Night on May 12, brought to you by the Children’s Science Center Lab! This engaging evening is packed with hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity and creativity while exploring Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
🔬 Featured Activities Include:
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Stacking Currency: Building Financial Literacy
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Monster Math: Creating with Probability
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Forensic Fun: Mystery Solved
- …and much more!
Students and families will rotate through interactive experiments specially designed to inspire a love of learning and discovery.
📅 Date: Tuesday, May 12 ⏰ Time: 6:00 – 7:30 PM (Come anytime!)
💡 Volunteers Needed! We are looking for volunteers from 5:15 – 7:45 PM to help with setup, assist students during activities, and clean up. 📧 To volunteer, please contact Kimberly Wilson at VRESVPEducation@gmail.com.
13. PTA Spring Enrichment Clubs
The PTA has lined up awesome enrichment clubs your Vikings will love! Clubs start in April, so don’t wait to sign up!
Here’s just a sample at what’s blooming this spring:
Flag Football | Crochet | Cooking | Acting | LEGO Club | Piano and Guitar | Intro to Coding | Cursive Club … and MORE!
Click the link to learn more and register today! https://tinyurl.com/VRESClubs
14. PTA Student Newsletter - April 2026
Art Stars of the Month
A huge round of applause for our March Artwork Challenge winners who took on the "Our Earth" theme:
Viking Quiz: Guess the Teacher!
Who is this teacher?
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I can do a backflip (and even did one at my wedding!).
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I love to watch and play sports.
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I’ve had 6 surgeries.
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This is my 9th year at Virginia Run.
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My family is growing - we’re expecting a baby soon!
Is it:
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A) Mr. Antoncic
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B) Mr. Priester
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C) Mr. Tyler
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D) Mr. Rosenfeld
Two winners will get a prize and a special photo with the mystery teacher!.
Viking News
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Tuesday, April 21: Student Holiday (No school!).
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Friday, April 24 @ 6 PM: The Viking Dash is back!.
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April 30: Deadline to register for Virginia Run Science Quest.
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May 4–8: Teacher Appreciation Week.
April Artwork Challenge: "My Teacher Deserves an Award!"
In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week, create a special award for any teacher who makes a difference in your day! It could be a trophy, a medal, or a certificate. Give it a name like "Super Helper Award" and write a short sentence about why they deserve it.
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How to submit: Draw it on letter-size paper or use a digital app.
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Where to turn it in: Drop paper art in the PTA Submission Box in the office, or email digital art to Skylar7981@gmail.com.
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Deadline: Wednesday, April 22.
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Don't forget: Include your full name, grade, and the title of your artwork.
For more details, go to the PTA website. Go Vikings!
Student Newsletter - April 2026
Parent Newsletter - April 2026
15. PTA Fundraisers
VRES Spirit Wear
It’s time to refresh your school wardrobe! Show your Viking pride while supporting the Virginia Run PTA! Whether you’re looking for cozy loungewear or fresh gear for the spring, there is something for everyone. A portion of every spirit wear purchase goes directly to the PTA. All items are shipped straight to your doorstep.
What’s in the Shop?
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Apparel: Hoodies, "We Are Virginia Run" sweatshirts, baseball tees, V-neck shirts, and athletic shorts.
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Stay Cozy: Classic blue plaid pajama pants.
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Accessories: Tote bags, lunch boxes, and stylish insulated tumblers in white and light blue.
How to Order
16. PE Sports Camp - Summer 2026
Get ready for an action-packed 4-day adventure at Virginia Run Elementary School! Led by our amazing PE Teacher, Mr. Rosenfeld. Don't miss out on this opportunity to hang with your classmates, learn new skills, and have a blast! We will offer a variety of different sports and activities for students in all grades. This camp is open to all Virginia Run students.
Please note, registration is for one session only - morning OR afternoon.
When: June 22 - June 25
Option 1: Morning Session: 9 AM - 1 PM
Option 2: Afternoon Session: 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Every day we will try to increase the fitness level of each camper. We will do this in many ways, including fitness games, cooperative challenges, and individual fitness sessions where each camper will set a goal for themselves and try to achieve it during the week.
What to bring: Campers should wear proper P.E. clothing each day, which includes tennis shoes. No open toe shoes or Crocs, please. Campers should also bring a water bottle each day. Snacks, including drinks and pizza slices will be available for purchase each day. Contact Kimberly Wilson with registration questions: VRESVPEducation@gmail.com
Spots fill fast — register now and save the date for an unforgettable week of movement, teamwork, and summer fun! ☀️🏀🌈
PE Sports Camp - Summer 2026 Registration
17. Drug Take Back Day
Hey everyone! Fairfax County is hosting a Drug Take Back Day. It's a great chance to clear out those old or expired meds safely.
The Details
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When: Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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Cost: It’s completely FREE, confidential, and safe.
What to Bring
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Accepted: Prescription and non-prescription pills, pet medications, and prescription ointments.
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Vaping Gear: You can drop off e-cigarettes and vaping devices, just make sure to remove the batteries. Small liquid packs/pods for e-cigarettes and vaping devices are also accepted.
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Not Accepted: Please do not bring needles, inhalers, aerosol cans, illegal drugs, or lotions.
Why It Matters
Taking a few minutes to drop off these items helps protect our environment, prevents accidental poisonings, and keeps drugs from being misused.
Where to Go
There are several local drop-off sites available:
- Dominion Hospital
- Fair Oaks District Station
- Franconia District Station
- Reston District Station
- Sully District Station
- Tysons Emergency
- Town of Vienna Police Department
- West Springfield District Station
If you can't make it that day, you can always find year-round disposal info at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/drug-disposal. Let's work together to keep our community safe!
Virginia Run's Administration team: Dave Gerstner, Principal, Jessica Green, Assistant Principal, and Lauren Arreaza, Assistant Principal.
18. Important Upcoming Dates
4/21: Student Holiday for Election
4/24: Viking Dash, 6:00 PM
5/20: Early Release Wednesday-Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM
5/25: Holiday - Memorial Day
5/26: Student Holiday (Teacher Workday)
5/27: Holiday for Eid al-Adha
6/3: Field Day, All Grade Levels
6/5: 6th Grade Musical, Cafeteria, 7:00 PM
6/8: Westfield High School Senior Walk, 3:15-3:45 PM
6/10: Art Walk, 5:45 PM
6/10: Band Concert, Gym, 7:00 PM
6/11: Strings Concert, Gym, 7:00 PM
6/17: 6th Grade Promotion, 9:30-11:00 AM
6/17: 2 Hour Early Release (2:00 Dismissal) - Last Day of School!
8/11: Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates
- Kindergarten Session: 9:00-10:00 AM
- Grades 1-6: 10:00-11:00 AM
SOL Schedule
May 6: Gr. 3-4 Reading
May 7: Gr. 5-6 Reading
May 13: Gr. 3-4 Math
May 14: Gr. 5-6 Math
May 19: Gr. 5 Science
May 28 - June 3: Retakes
*Makeups will be held when students return from their absence.
19. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
20. Monthly Lunch Menu
Please use this link to view the Virginia Run ES Lunch Menu.
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