Fort Belvoir Upper News
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Important Dates
May 20 - 3 Hour Early Release
May 26 - Memorial Day - Holiday
May 27 - Teacher Workday
May 28 - Eid al-Adha - Holiday
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Dear Families,
I want to take a moment to share my sincere gratitude and appreciation for the incredible kindness and love shown by both our staff and students on Principal Appreciation Day. Their thoughtful words, gestures, and support truly meant so much.
Today also marks four months of having the privilege to get to know our staff, students, and families. In this short time, I have already experienced what a special community this is. I feel incredibly blessed and honored to serve as your principal and to lead such a caring, supportive, and connected school community.
As we look ahead, please be on the lookout for the Miles for Heroes field trip permission slips coming home. We are excited to take part in a whole-school field trip to honor our nation’s fallen service members leading up to Memorial Day. This meaningful experience will provide our students with an opportunity to reflect, learn, and show respect for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Thank you again for your continued support and partnership. It is truly an honor to serve this community.
Hi Fort Belvoir Families!
We are so excited to announce that it’s time to Save the Date for our upcoming Summer STEAM Kids Lab! Thanks to a generous grant, we are able to offer this incredible hands-on experience to our students this June.
Whether your child is an aspiring engineer, a mini-scientist, or a tech wizard, this is the place to be. Here are the early details you need to know:
Quick Lab Facts
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Dates: Monday, June 22 – Friday, June 26, 2026
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Time: Approximately 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM (Final times TBD)
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Who: All current Grade K-5 students are invited to apply!
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Where: Fort Belvoir Elementary
What’s Next?
Keep a close eye on your inbox! We will be sending out more information and registration details very soon. This program is designed to propel student learning through science, technology, engineering, arts, and math in a fun, collaborative environment.
We can’t wait to see our young innovators in action!
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is committed to challenging all students through talent development and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of advanced learners.
Spring Screening for Subject Specific and Part-Time Services due May 8 While students can be screened for subject specific and part time AAP services at any time in the school year, schools review data on all students to determine services for the start of the next school year in the Spring via Spring Screening. Additionally, all files are checked upon enrollment to ensure that students who have been found eligible for advanced/gifted services at a previous school are aligned with FCPS’ comparable AAP service.
Parents or guardians can initiate the screening process by submitting the AAP School-Based Services Referral Form to the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART).
If you wish to submit a referral for Spring Screening, please complete and submit this form to Susan Lattuca (salattuca@fcps.edu) by Friday, May 8: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/AAPSchoolBasedServicesReferralForm.pdf
Parents or guardians who submit a referral will be notified by the local elementary school of their student’s eligibility status by early June.
What is considered in the screening process for Subject Specific and Part-Time Services? Multiple criteria are reviewed holistically to determine eligibility for all FCPS advanced academic services. Committees consider student work from opportunities with AAP lessons, examples of student reasoning or gifted behaviors from class discussions and activities, progress reports, achievement and ability scores, and parent or guardian input. Committees consider whether students have access to a group of students with similar academic needs to support academic conversations and growth in the classroom.
Subject Specific and Part-Time Services Overview
What are Subject Specific and Part-Time Services in Elementary School? FCPS offers a continuum of advanced academic services for all students in Grades K-12. The continuum of services approach allows for a focus on matching services to students’ needs rather than labeling students. Students have:
- Multiple entry points for deeper learning opportunities in specific areas of need as they develop.
- A cluster group of students with similar academic needs to support student learning and growth.
Teachers, administrators, and Advanced Academic Resource Teachers (AARTs) work together to provide the following levels of school-based services at the elementary level:
Access to Rigor, Grades K-6 All students have opportunities to think critically, reason, and problem-solve.
- All teachers use critical and creative thinking strategies in their lessons
- Classroom teachers provide opportunities using materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework a minimum of once per quarter.
Because Access to Rigor services are for all FCPS students, there is not a screening process.
Subject Specific Advanced Differentiation, Grades K-6 Some students require differentiation beyond the needs of age-level peers in their class in at least one specific subject area. Classroom teachers may adjust instruction for students in these areas by:
- Providing different assignments and resources in those subjects,
- Grouping students by their strengths, interests, and readiness, and
- Providing additional challenges using materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework.
Student needs for subject specific differentiation are re-evaluated each year at the local school.
Part-Time Advanced Academic Programs, Grades 3-6 Some students have advanced academic abilities in multiple subject areas and require differentiation beyond the needs of age-level peers in their class in multiple content areas. Students work with other students that have similar academic needs through weekly pull-out classes or weekly co-taught lessons with the AART and classroom teacher.
- Teachers provide frequent opportunities to use materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework in Language Arts, science, social studies, and/or mathematics.
- Part-Time services continue through Grade 6. Students do not need to be evaluated each year.
For more information, please visit the AAP website at: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/advanced-academics-identification-and-placement/current-fcps-students
Missing a jacket, hoodie or waterbottle? Be sure to check the lost & found located in the cafeteria. Items are starting to accumulate.
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New Visitor Management System We are excited to announce that our school is now using the new Raptor Visitor Management System (VMS). This upgrade is part of our school’s and FCPS’ ongoing commitment to enhancing school safety and streamlining the process for visitors at our school. The VMS ensures that no visitor is on the sex offender registry.
For most visitors, the user experience will be the same when you check-in at the front office.
But now there is also an app, which can make check-in’s even faster at school. Visitors who choose to download the RaptorSafe App and create a Raptor Passport can pre-verify their information before they get to school. The app will give you a QR code you can use when you check-in at school.
If you have questions or need assistance with the new system, please contact our front office. Thank you for your partnership in keeping our schools safe!
Get ready for a day of innovation and discovery! TJ TWIST is proud to present Techstravaganza 2026, an exciting hands-on STEM event for students and families. A school bus is being provided to shuttle a limited number of FBES families to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology to attend the 2026 Techstravaganza. The bus will leave the Fort Belvoir Elementary School bus loop on Saturday May 16th at 11:30 AM. It will arrive at TJHSST at 12:00 PM then depart at 2:00 PM to arrive back at FBES at 2:30 PM. If you would like to reserve a spot on the bus, please fill out this Google form: https://forms.gle/VVdRocW8UZZ5dfEP7 Also, please make sure you register for your spot at the Techstravaganza through the link on the flyer. There is no charge for the program or the bus. Come and join the fun!
Event Details
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Date: Saturday, May $16^{th}$, 2026
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Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
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Location: 6560 Braddock Rd, Alexandria, VA 22312
How to Join
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to explore the world of STEM! You can register for the event by visiting the link below:
Sign up at: https://tinyurl.com/Techstravaganza26
Required Immunizations for Rising 7th Graders
As required by the Code of VA, parents or legal guardians need to provide proof of immunizations for their child to attend at a Virginia public school.
In addition, all students entering 7th grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations:
- Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap) given at age 7 or older;
- Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) given at age 10 or older;
- A complete series of 2 doses of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
- After reviewing educational materials approved by the Board of Health, the parent or guardian, at the parents or guardians sole discretion, may elect for the child not to receive the HPV vaccine.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to plan ahead by scheduling an appointment with your child’s healthcare provider now to avoid the rush this summer. Immunization appointments are available. Inspire Health Alliance will be providing immunizations for currently enrolled FCPS students at no out-of-pocket cost. Visit the Inspire Immunization Events Student Registration webpage to schedule an appointment.
Additional Immunization Resources are also available.
FCPS PreK and Early Head Start is now accepting applications for School Year 2026-27!
We are High Quality Early Childhood Program for eligible families. PreK is a full day M-F program that prioritizes children 4-year-old by September 30 but also accept applications for children 3- year-old by September 30th. Spaces are limited.
To Apply In-person please bring:
-Child’s birth certificate
-Address Verification Letter
-Proof of Income (2025 taxes, W2 or 1-month paystubs)
For more information or to apply online scan QR code
Visit our website – www.fcps.edu/PreK
Call PreK Office-English: 703-208-7900 Spanish: 703-208-7901
Email- fcpsprekoffice@fcps.edu
We are excited to share information about our Elementary Institute for the Arts (E-IFTA) — a dynamic summer enrichment program serving students currently in grades K–5. Students currently in grade 6 are eligible for our secondary program, Institute for the Arts (IFTA).
Our programs offer students daily experiences in Art, Music, Theatre, and Dance in a fun, supportive environment designed to nurture creativity and confidence. To ensure access for all families, we provide:
- Tuition assistance
- Transportation
- After care options
We would greatly appreciate your help sharing this opportunity with families in your school community. Flyers for all programs — including translated versions — are available here:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1qX_RLDLyI5_U81c3kF34ZbR87G98KG3O?usp=drive_link
Please feel free to print, post, include in newsletters, send home in folders, or share digitally with families.
Thank you for helping us expand access to high-quality arts experiences for our elementary students. We are grateful for your partnership!
Spark Your Future at the CTE Summer Academy!
Is your student ready to build, create, and explore this summer? Registration is now officially OPEN for the Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) CTE Summer Academy!
This enrichment program is a fantastic way for students to dive into Career and Technical Education through hands-on learning. Whether they want to program a robot, cook a gourmet meal, or learn the basics of medical science, there is something for everyone.
📅 The Essentials
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Who: Current 6th to 11th graders.
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When: Weekly sessions from July 6 to July 31.
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Time: 8:30 am – 2:00 pm (Early drop-off and After Care available!).
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Where: Robinson Secondary School.
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Cost: $300 per week (Tuition assistance is available—check the website for details).
🛠️ What Can Students Do?
Students get to be the architects of their own summer! Each week, they create a unique schedule by selecting 4 classes from a wide variety of program areas, including:
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Business + Information Technology
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Health + Medical Sciences
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Technology + Engineering Education
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Family + Consumer Sciences
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Trade + Industrial Education
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Marketing
Note: Classes repeat each week, so students attending multiple weeks can choose different subjects every time!
The F.B.E.S. Family Food Market’s new location is at F.B.E.S. Upper School! Starting March 12 from *Noon-3:00 PM you can get fresh fruits and vegetables, a protein, and non-perishables at no cost to Primary and Upper families and Ft. Belvoir Homeschoolers. Mark your calendar for market dates: May 14, and June 11 from Noon-3:00 PM. The opening time may change due to our protein temperature requirement.
We desperately need volunteers to help unload the truck (arrival time between 8:00-10:00 AM) and with help takes about 15-20 minutes. A parent suggested we call volunteers when the truck arrives, so you don’t have to commit to two hours of waiting. I’m happy to do so! Please contact Dolores Elliott DElliott@fcps.edu or call 571-982-1419 for more info.
Prepare for Summer Learning and Fun for Students
Registration 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 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.
When Should Your Child Stay Home?
Help your student succeed in school by encouraging them to miss as few days as possible. However, do make sure your student stays home if they are sick. Visit the FCPS website for helpful insights regarding absences and how to work with your child and our school to minimize impacts on learning.
If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to let us know so we can provide assistance, if needed.
- Meal Accommodations Provide Safe, Nutritious Meals
FCPS’s Office of Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) works to ensure every student has access to school meals that are safe, nutritious, and meet their individual dietary needs.
FNS works closely with families to provide reasonable meal accommodations for students whose medical needs affect what they can eat at school. To support students appropriately and safely, families are asked to submit medical documentation to FNS from a U.S. licensed health care provider so we can tailor meals to each child’s needs.
Learn more about the documentation required and the steps to develop a menu for your child.
- 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.
Did you know Fort Belvoir Elementary has dedicated Family Liaisons to help you and your family connect with the school?
Fort Belvoir Upper Volunteers
Beginning January 12th, all Upper volunteers will need to check-in on the visitor's kiosk and sign-in using the Volunteer Log Book located in the blue basket. We appreciate your support and time!
Principal Talk Coffee
If you're a military family, join the Liaisons for the Principal Talk Coffee! It's a relaxed way to meet new families, share your ideas, and discuss topics that matter to you. All families are invited!
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Where: Fort Belvoir Primary School
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When: 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
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Upcoming Dates: April 28, and May 19.
PCSing? We're Here for You!
If your family is moving or PCSing, the Liaisons can support you by:
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Providing new school district Points of Contact.
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Reaching out to the community for resources.
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Connecting you to Military Family Life Counselors (MFLCs).
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Setting up a virtual meeting.
Don't hesitate to reach out to Dolores or Jenn!
FCPS CARES Program
The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition. To recognize an employee with an FCPS CARES, please view the submission page
Apply for free & reduced meals at: https://www.fcps.edu/frm.
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Dear Parents,
Please be sure to make childcare arrangements on our early dismissal Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. each month! 😊
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