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Our second grade Mustangs brought their economics unit to life during Trades Day, gaining hands-on experience as both consumers and producers while creating and selling their own original recycled products!
We're so grateful to our amazing students and families for coming together to celebrate Earth Day! It was wonderful to see our community united in our commitment to environmental stewardship.
Greetings McNair Students and Families,
It was wonderful to see so many of you celebrating Earth Day with us last week! It was truly a special event for our school community. As we look ahead, we invite you to join us this Thursday for a Snack and Chat at 4:30pm with Principal Watson and Reading Specialist Carper. We will be sharing effective literacy strategies and discussing how you can best support your Mustang’s reading journey at home. Your partnership is the foundation of our students' success!
Also, let's get ready to celebrate! Next week we recognize a very special occasion: Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week! It's a time for us to express our deepest gratitude to the incredible team that makes McNair Elementary School such a vibrant and nurturing learning environment. We are so fortunate to have such talented and dedicated teachers and staff members, who pour their hearts and souls into supporting our students each and every day. Their passion for education and commitment to our children's success is truly inspiring.
To show your appreciation, please consider signing up for the items you wish to donate using the following link: Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week Donation Link. If you are able to donate, please drop off your items to the main office at McNair Elementary no later than 4:00 PM on Friday, May 1st. Many thanks again for your support!
Looking ahead, we have some exciting events on the horizon, so please be sure to mark your calendars:
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🌷Literacy Strategies & Family Snack & Chat with the Principal & Reading Specialist: April 30th at 4:30pm at McNair ES
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🌷Walk, Bike and Roll to School Day: May 6th (arrival and dismissal)
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🌷Family Heritage Night: May 14th at McNair ES. (We invite you to share your culture and traditions with us! Please sign up here to participate in this wonderful community celebration.)
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🌷Kindergarten Registration: Kindergarten Registration is now open! If you have any questions, please contact our main office at 703-793-4800. Special Incentive: The next 5 Mustangs to register will receive a Mustang Keychain Plushie! Please help us spread the word to neighbors and friends. We also are excited invite all incoming Kindergarten students and their parents/guardians to our Kindergarten Open House on May 20th!
Thank you for your continuous partnership and support in your child's education. Together, all things are possible. Wishing you a wonderful week, Mustangs!
Together We Grow,
Mrs. Watson, Mrs. Stringer, and Mrs. Royer
Please contact us with any questions!
Principal: Elizabeth Watson, evwatson@fcps.edu
Assistant Principal: Ipsa Stringer, IBStringer@fcps.edu
Assistant Principal: Sara Royer, smroyer@fcps.edu
Click on the links below to navigate to sections of this newsletter.
Save the Date, Mustangs!
📌April 30: McNair's Literacy Family Snack and Chat with the Principal Reading Specialist at 4:30pm
📌May 4 - 8: McNair Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week (Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week Donation Link. )
📌May 6: Walk, Bike and Roll to School Day
📌May 14: Family Heritage Night at McNair Elementary, 5:30-7:00pm
📌May 15 - May 22: McNair's Spring Book Fair
📌May 20: 3 Hour Early Release for Grades K-2, Dismissal at 12:30pm
📌May 20: Kindergarten Orientation for Class of 2039 at 2:00pm
📌May 20: Family Night at the Book Fair and Storytime with the Principal; 4:30-6:00pm. We hope you can join us!
📌May 20: PTA Meeting at McNair Upper Elementary School at 6:45pm
**Please reference the 2025-2026 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips. Attendance counts and everyday matters!**
Arrival and Dismissal
Doors open for arrival at 8:35 a.m. The school day begins at 8:45 a.m.
Dismissal begins at 3:30 p.m.
💪 Let's Finish the School Year Strong!
Student attendance at school is important all year long, up to the last day of school. Attendance has an effect on student performance and on school accreditation. See how to:
- Check your child’s attendance record.
- Help your student stay engaged at school.
- Report future absences.
- Understand the FCPS school calendar.
Learn more about attendance resources.
Attendance Challenge! Let's Go Mustangs!
Mustangs, don't forget about our Attendance Challenge! If you're here for a full week, you will be entered that Friday for a chance to win a prize from the mystery box! Tune into the Morning News Show every Monday as we will be calling five winners each week for the remainder of the school year! Remember, you attendance matters! |
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McNair's Literacy Family Snack & Chat with Principal Watson and Reading Specialist Carper!
You are invited to our Family Snack and Chat Reading Meeting
Date: Thursday, April 30th
Time: 4:30pm
Place: McNair Elementary School's Library
Meeting: Meet with our Reading Specialist, Mrs. Carper and Principal, Mrs Watson to learn how to help your child grow as a reader at home.
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 McNair ES Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week 2026
Greetings McNair Families and Community Members!
We will celebrate the teachers and staff at McNair Elementary during the week of May 4th-May 8th. As we prepare for our weeklong celebration in an effort to recognize them for all they do to support our Mustangs, we'd love your help in contributing supplies to help us pull off the most magical week possible.
If you are able to donate, please drop off your items to the main office at McNair Elementary no later than 4:00 PM on Monday, April 27th.
Please use this link to sign-up for your donation: Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week Donation Link.
Thank you so much for helping to make this the most magical week for our very deserving staff!
If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at evwatson@fcps.edu.
With Gratitude,
Mrs. Watson
Principal
McNair families - Please join us on Wednesday, May 6 at 8:30am outside Door 2 to celebrate Walk, Bike and Roll to School Day! This event promotes:
- physical activity
- safe pedestrian and bicycling skills
- concern for the environment
We encourage families to demonstrate safe practices like using a sidewalk and crosswalk or wearing a helmet when biking or scooting. If you bike to school, please use our bike racks and bring a lock! Students who participate will earn a sticker and can sign our poster outside of Door 2 before school! We look forward to seeing you there!
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McNair Elementary School's Heritage Night
We are excited to host our McNair Heritage Night, May 14th!
Do you have a food, dance, song, or artifact you'd like to showcase?
The deadline line has been extended. Space is limited!
Use this link to sign up today: https://forms.gle/qyCrKMGczWjVrFqH6 and join us in sharing and experiencing diverse cultures.
If you have any questions, email rbarasona@fcps.edu or kfukahori@fcps.edu.”
Kindergarten Registration
There’s an easy five-step process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:
- Determine eligibility.
- Identify your local school.
- Gather documents.
- Fill out forms.
- Schedule an appointment (the student and one caregiver must be present).
Our kindergarten open house is being held on May 20, 2026 to give parents of students entering school in August an opportunity to learn more about kindergarten at our school.
Register your child today! Contact our registrar, Ms. Afkham Hosseini, at 703-793-4800 with any questions.
FCPS Title I Advisory Committee (TPAC)
Future TPAC General Session Meeting Dates:
- May 19, 2026 at 7:00 pm (Justice HS)
Please join us for Kindergarten Orientation!
When: Wednesday, May 20, 2026 from 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Where: McNair Elementary School
What: Parents are invited to come and meet new friends while engaging in fun activities in a Kindergarten classroom. Future Kindergarten students are invited to come and meet a new friend while engaging in fun activites in a Kindergarten classroom.
⏰ Limited Early Release Days for Elementary Schools
Limited early release days for elementary schools will shift to Wednesdays for the 2025-26 school year. Student supervision will be provided for families who require it. Three-hour early release days for our school will take place at 12:30pm on the following dates:
Please contact your child's teacher as soon as possible to inform them of your child's dismissal arrangements on May 20th.
Join Us, Mustangs! Mark Your Calendars!
It's time to start planning for fall! Join us on Sunday, September 20, 2026 for the Asha-Jyothi 18th annual 5K + 1 mi. Fun Run at Fairfax Corner.
Important Reminder: Seasonal Spare Clothes
As the weather continues to change, please take a moment to check and update the extra set of clothes in your child's backpack. We ask that the spare clothing includes items appropriate for the current temperatures, such as long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, socks, and underwear. Having a current and complete set of extra clothes is essential for your child's comfort and well-being, especially in the event of spills, accidents, or unexpected changes in the weather. Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring all students are prepared!
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Crosswalk Safety at McNair ES
We want to emphasize the importance of safety on our school grounds and surrounding areas. One crucial aspect of this is using the designated crosswalks to safely cross Thomas Jefferson Drive.
We understand that it may be inconvenient to walk to the crosswalk, but not doing so puts our students at risk. By modeling responsible behavior and using the crosswalk with the crossing guard or police officer, we can create a safer environment for everyone. Please discuss the importance of crosswalk safety with your child and encourage them to always use the designated paths. Your support and partnership in this matter is greatly appreciated.
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Register Today With Volunteer FCPS
Volunteer FCPS allows individuals to search and register for volunteer opportunities. It helps ensure a safe, consistent, and welcoming environment here at McNair Elementary. All volunteers must:
- Create a profile in Volunteer FCPS.
- Register for opportunities through Volunteer FCPS.
- Sign in and out of schools using the visitor kiosk.
At the Volunteer FCPS site, you can complete a volunteer orientation. Visit the Volunteer FCPS Frequently Asked Questions for more information.
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PTA Links:
On Facebook, please like & follow to get the latest updates.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567288287981
April PTA Meeting: April 15th at 6:30 PM/McNair ES
Volunteers Needed!
The McNair PTA is looking for volunteers to help make our upcoming school events a success! We would greatly appreciate your support for the following activities:
- 6th Grade Promotion
- Heritage Night May14th at McNair ES
- Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week May 4-May 8
- Movie Night
- And other upcoming PTA events
Volunteers may help with preparing for the event, setup, activities, supervision, cleanup etc. Whether you can help for a short time or throughout an event, every contribution makes a difference and helps create memorable experiences for our students.
We are also looking for volunteers for the Next school year. Please reach out if you are interested in the below positions.
- Competition Leads for next School Year
- PTA Board Member for next School Year
Harris Teeter Together In Education- Fundraiser:
Harris Teeter’s Together In Education program gives schools a chance to earn funds when you link your VIC card and shop Harris Teeter brands. A percentage of your purchase is donated to the school that your VIC card is linked to. There are NO LIMITS to how much a school can earn.
Instruction for Parents:
Option 1: Please use the annual sign up form for the TIE program from Harris Teeter using the following link:
https://tinyurl.com/mcnairharristeeter
Note: You need to re-register every year for this program.
Option 2: You can also sign up in-person at the counter using our school code: 5090
Corporate Donation to the PTA:
Did you know that the McNair Elementary PTA is a 501- 3(c) non profit (EIN 332743954) meaning your deductions are tax deductible!
As the year ends, please consider making a donation to the PTA and checking with your employer to see if they will match your donation.
  Title 1 Parent Advisory Committee Meeting: Voices that Shape Our Future
Join us for an engaging evening where your voice helps shape the future of our schools!
Location: Poe Middle School 7000 Cindy Ln, Annandale, VA 22003
Date: April 30 Time: 7:00 PM
Synchronous Spanish interpretation will be available online and in person Childcare and snacks will be provided
Join via Zoom: https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/99642589438
Join us for the April TPAC General Session as we draft our year-end report to the School Board. Continue shaping a more equitable future for FCPS students by sharing your feedback and consider serving on the TPAC Executive Board. We hope to see you there!
Required Immunizations
Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and Rising 12th GradersThe following immunizations are required for students entering 7th and 12th grade each school year.
All students entering 7th grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations prior to the beginning of school: Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap), Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY), and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
- To meet the Tdap requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 7 or older.
- To meet the MenACWY requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 10 or older.
- To meet the HPV requirement, the vaccination should be given between the ages of 11 to 12 or as early as 9 years old.
- As a parent/guardian, you may decide that your child will not receive the HPV vaccination. The school does not require documentation if a parent/guardian elects for their student not to receive the HPV vaccination.
All students entering 12th grade are to receive two doses of the Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) prior to the beginning of school. To meet the MenACWY 12th grade requirement, one dose must be administered at age 16 or older.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to plan ahead by scheduling an appointment with your child’s health care provider now to avoid the rush this summer. Please consider getting your child’s immunizations early so that they can attend school in the fall. Summer is a busy time for families and healthcare providers. As long as your child meets the age requirements listed above, they can be immunized at any time.
Immunization Events for FCPS StudentsFCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will provide school-required immunizations and optional flu shots for all FCPS students at no out-of-pocket cost. Multiple events will take place at designated FCPS locations.
Dates will be made available throughout the school year. Parents or guardians may view upcoming events and schedule an appointment for their student. Participation is voluntary. Additional immunization resources are also available.
Community Conversations
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. 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.
Benchmark/Literacy 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.
 Fairfax County Public Schools
Free Quality Half-Day PreSchool Program!
An Inclusive Learning Experience! Now enrolling community peers to
learn alongside preschool students with disabilities in a nurturing, high-
quality environment.
Engaging curriculum - play-based learning with certified teachers.
Social & Emotional Development -Building confidence & friendships.
Who can apply?
Children in our community, ages 3-5, who meet program criteria.
Infant and Toddler Resources
Resources to Help Infants and Toddlers Meet Milestones
Are you concerned about your infant, toddler, or preschool-aged child’s development? Resources are available if your child exhibits difficulties in one or more of the following areas: communication, fine and/or gross motor skills, self-help skills, problem-solving, and attention skills. Learn more about typical developmental milestones.
The Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia (ITC) provides evaluations and services for children (0-36 months) who have developmental delays or medical conditions that may affect development. Parents are encouraged to contact ITC at 703-246-7121 to share their concerns.
Early Childhood Child Find is the process of identifying children with potential special education needs between the ages of 20 months and 5 years (children must be two by September 30).
FCPS Early Childhood Identification and Services (ECID&S) offers a free referral process to identify potential developmental delays or disabilities. Special education services are provided for all children who are found eligible through the referral process. Parents are encouraged to call 571-423-4121 with questions.
Updates to 2026-27 School Year Calendar
The School Board voted to direct the superintendent to designate Veterans Day as a standard instructional day for the 2026-27 school year. Because this day was added, the 2026-27 school year will now end for students on Wednesday, June 16, 2027. Find additional information on BoardDocs. View the updated complete school year calendar on FCPS’ website.
The last day of school for the current school year — Wednesday, June 17, 2026 — has not changed.
Equity Award
Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award. This award recognizes an employee, student, or community member who has demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.
Any staff, student, or community member can nominate an individual for the award. All nomination materials must be submitted by Monday, May 18.
The Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) sponsors this award to honor the legacy of Dr. Bussey, a founding member of the MSAOC and a longtime advocate for students and families.
Full details and the nomination information form can be found at the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award webpage.
Ombuds
Our Office of the Ombuds Is at Your Service!
Ombuds staff engage with FCPS staff, families, and students to offer resources and improve the experience of each and every member of the FCPS community. They work as an independent confidential resource to help get answers to questions, resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.
Ombuds staff do not make or change decisions, policies, or regulations. They do not take sides, and they do not provide legal advice.
Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints to share with the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email ombuds@fcps.edu, or visit their webpage, where you may submit a question.
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.
FCPS also partners 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.
Summer Learning
Prepare for Summer Learning and Fun for Students
Registration is open for summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.
Career and Technical Education and Institute for the Arts Camps
Career 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.
 2026 CTE Summer Enrichment Programs
Tech Adventure Camp: Current Kindergarten - grade 5 students explore Business/Marketing, Family + Consumer Sciences, Health + Medical Sciences, STEAM, and Trades by rotating through daily classes
Visit the Tech Adventure Camp webpage here: bit.ly/FCPS_TAC
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Time - 8:30 am to 2 pm* *Early drop off begins at 7:30 am; after care ends at 5 pm
New to 2026! We’re offering after care!
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Location - Robinson SS
- Transportation from select FCPS schools is provided!
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Cost - $300 per week Back for 2026 programs, we will be offering tuition assistance. More information on our webpages.
- Dates -
New to 2026! We’re offering a 4th week of our programs!
Different weekly offerings; weekly themes and class offerings can be found on our webpages!
Visit our webpages (linked above) for more information!
For questions, please contact Beth Mehr at bgmehr@fcps.edu
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.
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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.
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School Library Month
In FCPS libraries, students develop knowledge and skills, experience a sense of belonging, find inspiration and support, and have the ability to freely pursue their personal interests and academic growth.
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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.
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April 28: School Bus Driver Appreciation Day
A big shout-out and heartfelt thank you to our amazing bus drivers! Every day, they go above and beyond to ensure our students arrive at school safely and return home with care. Their dedication, patience, and commitment do not go unnoticed. We are truly grateful for all they do to support our school community, today and every day. Happy School Bus Driver Appreciation Day!
FCPS This Week
In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:
- Student Awards and Recognitions
- Military Child of the Year Finalist
- Required Immunizations Reminder
Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.
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Thank you for your partnership as we gallop together in supporting our Mustangs!
#TogetherWeGrow
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