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 Thank you to our wonderful PTA and community for helping us celebrate our amazing teachers and staff during our Magical World of McNair Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week! Your support has made it unforgettable!
Greetings McNair Students and Families,
Thank you so much for your incredible generosity and heartfelt donations for this week's Magical World of McNair Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week! We are having the best time celebrating our amazing and talented teachers and staff, and it wouldn’t be possible without your support. Throughout the week, our staff is being showered with treats, gift cards, a luncheon provided by the PTA, Disney memorabilia, and thoughtful notes of appreciation from both students and families. Your kindness is truly making our WONDERFUL team of teachers and staff feel seen, valued, and celebrated. A special thank you to our wonderful PTA for partnering with us to make the week so special!
In addition, there is still time to donate gift cards or other items using the following link: Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week Donation Link.
FCPS CARES Recognition Program:
Has an FCPS staff member made a difference for your child? Whether it was a "favorite teacher" moment or a helping hand, we want to hear about it! Through the FCPS CARES Recognition Program, you can celebrate the McNair Elementary employees who go above and beyond. Use the link below to share your appreciation and help us recognize our amazing team!
https://www.fcps.edu/about-fcps/employees/recognition-programs/fcps-cares
Class Placements for the 2026-2027 School Year:
It's hard to believe we are already planning for the 2026-2027 school year! To help us, we are asking parents with currently enrolled students to fill out our 2026-2027 Class Placement Feedback form linked below. Your responses will help our teachers as we begin the process of building balanced classes for the 26-27 school year. Class placements are an essential component of learning and building community. If you have information that you would like us to consider as we determine placements, please share your input by answering a few questions listed below. We know that a good teacher-student match and a productive mix of children are ingredients for success, and we carefully consider each child’s strengths and needs during this process. Please do not request specific teachers, as this does not take into account the many variables we must take into consideration. It is far more valuable to share particular academic or behavioral information. You may find the link here: Class Placement Parent Feedback Form.
Looking ahead, we have some exciting events on the horizon, so please be sure to mark your calendars:
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🌷Walk, Bike and Roll to School Day: May 6th, rain or shine (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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🌷McNair's Spring Book Fair: May 15 - May 22
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🌷3 Hour Early Release for Grades K-2 on May 20: Dismissal for K-2 will be at 12:30pm
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🌷Kindergarten Registration: Kindergarten Registration is now open! If you have any questions,our Kindergarten Open House on May 20th!
We are grateful for your continued partnership and support in your child’s education. Please don't hesitate to reach out if there is anything at all we can do to support you and your family. Together, all things are possible.
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!
📌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 with Book Fair Family night on Wednesday, May 20.
📌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!**
📌May 25: Memorial Day Holiday- No school for students or staff
📌May 26: Teacher Workday -No school for students
📌May 27: Eid al-Adha - No school for students or staff
📌June 5: McNair PTA Outdoor Movie Night
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.
Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow. We All Belong Here!
In FCPS, we all belong. From the first day of school, to the last day of school, every child matters. If your student is having a hard time finishing the year strong and attending school, please contact a trusted adult at our school — a teacher, counselor, or administrator. Visit FCPS’ website for more 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 ES Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week 2026
Greetings McNair Families and Community Members!
We will continue to celebrate the teachers and staff at McNair Elementary during the week of May 4th-May 8th. If you are able to donate, 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
Walk Bike & Rose To School Day
McNair families - Please join us rain or shine 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.”
FCPS Title I Advisory Committee (TPAC)
Future TPAC General Session Meeting Dates:
- May 19, 2026 at 7:00 pm (Justice HS)
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.
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.
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:
- Heritage Night May14th at McNair ES
- Movie Night
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.
Summer Extravaganza
Discover Exciting Summer Learning Activities and IdeasJoin Fairfax County Public Schools for a free, family-friendly community celebration filled with hands-on STEM, arts, and creative experiences for students of all ages. This year’s Summer Extravaganza takes place on Saturday, June 6, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Woodson High School.
Explore summer learning resources and connect with FCPS offices and community partners. Don’t miss the Student Market and a full day of engaging activities designed to spark learning, growth, and inspiration for the whole family.
For more information, visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage.
 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.
Family Information Phone Lines
FCPS family information phone lines are available in nine different languages. An FCPS employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.
Call the phone line with questions about your child’s education or FCPS, and someone will help connect you to resources or arrange for you to speak to the appropriate school employee. Learn more about family information phone lines.
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.
Mental Health Services
Your Child's Mental Wellness Matters: Access Comprehensive Services
Reach out to the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) for specialized youth mental health services designed to help your child succeed. The CSB has individual and family counseling, psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, medication management, parenting groups, peer support, crisis response, recovery supports that include medication-assisted treatment (MAT), intensive services, and other services.
Contact CSB Entry and Referral to get started by calling 703-383-8500 or emailing csb@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Additional Mental Health Resources
FCPS has resources available to support your child’s mental health. During after-school hours, parents and students who need additional support can use the 988 Lifeline to get free, confidential guidance from trained crisis counselors on how to best help someone experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis. You can call or text the number.
Recent reports have shared an 11% drop in suicides among young people since the rollout of 988. Please note, the hotline is not only for those experiencing suicidal ideation (or thoughts), it is also available for any mental health or substance abuse-related crisis and those with a loved one experiencing those crises or suicidal thoughts.
And as always, if your concern is an emergency, you should call 911.
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
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
People with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific have been integral to the story of America. In 1992, May was designated Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate their heritage and contributions.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
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Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month is about more than awareness. It’s about showing up for one another. It provides a chance to stand with your community and show that no one struggles alone. Everyone is invited to speak up against mental health stigma. Learn more about Mental Health Awareness Month on the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) website.
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Jewish American Heritage Month
May is a national month of recognition of the history of Jewish contributions to American culture, acknowledging the diverse achievement of the Jewish community in the U.S. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
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FCPS This Week
In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:
- Summer Learning
- Mental Health Resources
- Thank You, Bus Drivers and Food Service Workers
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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