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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 29, 2026
IN THIS ISSUE
- Important Update on Potential Boundary Changes & Community Engagement Opportunity
- Positivity Project at Virginia Run
- Teacher Appreciation Week
- Family Science Night at Virginia Run
- SCA Spirit Day
- Snacks for Students Drive - April 27 - May1
- Benchmark Unit 7: Uncovering History in Language Arts
- Lexia FCPS Family Info Night
- Advanced Academic Spring Newsletter
- Walk, Bike, & Roll to School - May 6th
- Transportation Survey - Get2Green
- Parent Input Form for 2026-2027 Class Placement
- Kindergarten Registration
- Attendance is Important: Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!
- Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates
- PTA Board for 25-26 School Year
- Virginia Run Science Quest
- PTA Student Newsletter - April 2026
- PTA Fundraisers
- PE Sports Camp - Summer 2026
- Westfield Theatre Presents Anastasia
- Important Upcoming Dates
- Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
- Monthly Lunch Menu
A poster of the Virginia Run Elementary School Vision and Mission Statements.
1. Important Update on Potential Boundary Changes & Community Engagement Opportunity
Dear Virginia Run Families,
I want to ensure that you’re fully informed about a boundary study currently being conducted in our region, including Virginia Run. In two of the three scenarios being considered, some of our families might shift to Bull Run Elementary for the 2027-2028 school year.
I believe in being transparent with you. While no decisions have been finalized, I want you to be aware of the possibilities. To stay involved, I encourage you to engage in the ongoing community meetings. In fact, there’s an engagement opportunity tonight from 6 to 8 p.m. linked here:
https://www.fcps.edu/about-fcps/maps/boundary-adjustments-information/skyview-high-school-and-western-pyramids-boundary
Boundary Explorer Tool
Families can now explore and visualize how the new draft scenarios may affect school boundaries using our Boundary Explorer Tool.
Developed specifically for the Skyview High School and Western Pyramids boundary study, this interactive tool — similar to the one used during the comprehensive boundary review — helps families understand how proposed changes could impact their school or neighborhood. Community members can also share their feedback in the Boundary Explorer Tool, which will help inform the boundary development process.
Please note that these maps reflect very early draft scenarios, based on more than 1,400 feedback form responses and other input. They will be revised and shared with the community again for additional feedback.
To review the scenarios and make your voice heard, please follow these steps:
There are currently three scenarios under consideration. Please note that Scenario 1 and Scenario 3 include changes that would directly impact the Virginia Run community.
- Access the Scenarios: Open the tool and select the scenario you wish to review from the menu on the left side of the screen.
- Leave a Comment:
- Click the “Leave a Comment” button located under the scenario list.
- The button will change to read: “Click on a location on the map to leave a comment.”
- Click directly on the Virginia Run area on the map—this is the mauve (pink/purple) section labeled “Virginia Run.”
- Submit Your Feedback: A dialogue box will appear where you can detail how the proposed changes would impact your family.
Important Reminders
- Be Specific: You can submit comments on each individual scenario. There is no limit to the number of comments you can provide.
- Focus Areas: While all feedback is welcome, Scenarios 1 and 3 are the primary options where Virginia Run families are subject to being reassigned to a different school.
Your participation is vital to ensuring our community’s needs are heard and considered during this process. Thank you for staying engaged!
Thank you for your trust and advocacy as we navigate this process together.
My best,
Dave Gerstner
Principal
Virginia Run Elementary School
We are ONE VRES!
These are pictures of students and parents having fun last Friday night at the Viking Dash!
2. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
Character Strength: Purpose
This week, our school community will focus on the character strength of Purpose. Purpose means having beliefs about the meaning of life and feeling that your life has a purpose. It’s about wanting to be part of something bigger than yourself.
People with a sense of purpose believe they are here for a reason. That reason can be different for everyone — it might be inventing something new, bringing joy through art or music, or raising kind and responsible children.
Having a clear purpose helps people stay strong and courageous, even in difficult times. It also encourages them to act with kindness and love, even when it’s hard. When people feel connected to something greater, their lives have more meaning and fulfillment.
To practice and encourage the character strength of purpose at home, please visit The Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families (available in English and Spanish), where you will watch a video together and discuss a quote and three questions.
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3. 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 both students and parents' support to make it all possible.
Students:
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Monday, May 4: Flower Power 🌸 Bring a flower (real or crafted) to brighten your teacher's day.
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Tuesday, May 5: Grant a Wish 📝 Check your teacher’s wish list and donate an item to help their classroom shine.
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Wednesday, May 6: Sweet Treats 🍬 Surprise your teacher with their favorite snack or treat.
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Thursday, May 7: Show Your Colors 🎨 Wear your teacher’s favorite color today!
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Friday, May 8: Friday Finale 🎁 End the week strong by bringing a thank-you note, a gift card, or any small gift of appreciation.
Parents:
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]
Teacher Appreciation 2026 Flyer
4. Family Science Night at Virginia Run
🌟 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 sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/FamilyScienceNightVRES
Questions? Contact Kimberly Wilson at VRESVPEducation@gmail.com.
These are pictures of families having fun at the Viking Dash last Friday night!
5. SCA Spirit Day
The next SCA spirit day is Thursday, April 30- Dress like your hero day! Does your hero wear a cape, or everyday clothes? Maybe you have a hero in your family, or from history.
6. Snacks for Students Drive - April 27 - May 1
The SCA is hosting a Snacks for Students Drive from April 27 - May 1 to support our students by supplying healthy snacks to classrooms, so that each child has the boost they need during the day through this last quarter of school. We invite all who are able to donate individually wrapped, non-perishable, non-expired, nut-free snacks to the lobby.
7. Benchmark Unit 7: 📚 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.
Ms.This is a picture of Ms. Spezzano’s and Ms. Rhee’s classes enjoying a field trip to Riverbend Park!
8. Lexia FCPS Family Info Night
Do you want to learn more about Lexia? Join Lexia® Learning for a Lexia family information night to learn how FCPS is using Lexia® Core5 and Lexia® PowerUp in classrooms across the district in the 25-26SY to support students' Literacy growth.
Topics to be covered during this Lexia Parent Night include:
- What is Lexia Core5 and PowerUp and how do the programs support your students' individual learning needs?
- How does Lexia support teacher planning and instruction?
- How is Lexia data being used for progress monitoring and goal setting by educators
- Tips for supporting your student at home.
The last session will take place on Wednesday, May 6 2026 @ 6:30 - 7:30 PM. Families can register for an FCPS/Lexia Parent Information Night via this link: bit.ly/familyinfo2526.
9. Advanced Academic Spring Newsletter
Please 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.
10. Walk, Bike, & Roll to School
Virginia Run Vikings! We are excited to Virginia Run participate in another WALK, BIKE, AND ROLL to school day this spring on Wednesday May 6th. We are encouraging as many students as we can to either walk and “roll” (bike, scooter) to school on this day. We will be handing out certificates for each student that participates. Hope to see you all out there!
IMPORTANT CONNECTION for Get2Green Below
11. 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. On May 6th the Walk/Bike to School Day, Please walk/bike to school or safely carpool if able as we will be tracking this data for that day to compare our carbon footprint. 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
12. 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.
13. 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.
14. 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 29th, Virginia Run’s Year to Date Chronic Absenteeism is 8.1%, being 1.9% 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
15. 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!
16. 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
17. 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
18. 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
A picture of Mr. Gerstner, our school principal, having fun doing the obstacle course at the Viking Dash!
19. 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
20. 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
21. Westfield Theatre Presents Anastasia
Westfield Theatre is officially bringing the magic of Anastasia to our stage!
If you’re looking for a "Journey to the Past," you won't want to miss this beautiful production. It’s got everything: mystery, romance, and that incredible music we all love. Come out and support our talented cast and crew as they bring this classic story to life.
Performance Dates & Times
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Evening Shows (7:00 PM): April 30, May 1, May 2, and May 8
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Matinee Shows (12:00 PM): May 3 and May 9
Run Time
2 hours and 30 minutes with a
15- minute intermission.
Special Note
We want everyone to enjoy the magic! There will be an ASL Interpreted Show on May 1st.
Tickets & Info
For tickets and more details go to www.westfieldtheatre.com.
A picture of former VRES students from the cast & crew of the Anastasia!
A picture of Virginia Run's Administration team: Dave Gerstner, Principal, Jessica Green, Assistant Principal, and Lauren Arreaza, Assistant Principal.
22. Important Upcoming Dates
5/4-5/8: Teacher Appreciation Week
5/6: Walk, Bike, & Roll to School Day
5/12: Family Science Night, Cafeteria, 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.
23. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
24. Monthly Lunch Menu
Please use this link to view the Virginia Run ES Lunch Menu.
A picture of the May Lunch Menu for Elementary School.
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