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Hello Bull Run Families,
I can't believe we are about to enter May already! Time is flying by and there is no better reminder of that than by welcoming our newest Bulls into the building tonight at Kindergarten Orientation! We are excited for a new bunch of students to begin their education journey with us!
Next week is Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week, please remember to show your child's teacher the love and support they deserve!
Reminders:
Tomorrow May 01, is the first Friday of the month so all students and staff are encouraged to wear their favorite team or sport jersey or colors! The Jets did pretty well in the NFL Draft this year, so I'll keep my optimism for now and wear my jersey with pride!
On Monday, May 4th, to honor our amazing staff for Staff Appreciation Week, students are encouraged to "Dress Like Your Favorite Staff Member", whether you want to channel your favorite teacher, an administrator, a counselor, or any staff member you admire! See below for all of the other plans for the week!
Have a wonderful weekend!
-Mr. Marotta
April 30: Special Olympics Feet Meet (Madison HS, 9:30am-12:30pm / Kindergarten Orientation, 5:30pm
May 01: School Lunch Hero Day
May 04-08: Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week!
May 06: National School Nurse Day
May 18: Speech Language Pathology Appreciation Day
May 20: Three-Hour Early Release Wednesday
May 25: Memorial Day (NO SCHOOL)
May 26: Teacher Work Day (NO SCHOOL) / Eid al-Adha (starts at sundown)
May 27: Eid al-Adha / School Planning Day (NO SCHOOL)
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*The full FCPS 2025-2026 calendar can be accessed here.
This past weekend, 38 of our students proudly represented our school at the Science Olympiad competition held at Lake Braddock Secondary School. Our 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade participants teamed up to compete in a variety of events designed to challenge both their scientific knowledge and engineering skills.
Students participated in station-based events covering topics such as anatomy, the solar system, circuitry, and molecular bonding. In addition, they took part in hands-on engineering challenges, including designing moon landing devices, gravity vehicles, and constructing floating barges using limited materials.
Throughout the competition, our students demonstrated remarkable teamwork, perseverance, and a willingness to step outside their comfort zones. Drawing on the knowledge and skills they have been developing since the fall, they competed against 14 other schools and a total of 30 teams.
We are incredibly proud of their efforts and accomplishments. Their dedication and collaboration resulted in an impressive total of 19 medals - an outstanding achievement for our young scientists!
The curiosity these students have sparked, the challenges they have embraced, and the confidence they are building will carry far beyond this competition.
Way to go Bulls!
Three Bull Run students representing our school at the Science Olympiads competition.
Bull Run is thrilled to share that we have been awarded a STEAM grant through the Burns & McDonnell Foundation, which is dedicated to sparking curiosity, creativity, and confidence in the next generation of STEM leaders. We extend a special thank you to Mrs. Zahreddine for recognizing and sharing this opportunity (originally brought to her attention by her son, Sami, a former Bull Run student) and for connecting with Ms. Kiehlmeier and Mr. Lemmerman to help bring this grant to life.
This grant will have a meaningful and lasting impact on our students. Through the addition of Blue-Bot coding robots, LEGO robotics kits for both classroom and after-school experiences, and ChompShop cardboard cutting, our students will have new opportunities to think critically, design with purpose, and bring their ideas to life!
Most importantly, this grant represents more than just new resources. It reflects a shared commitment from our staff to partner together to generate new opportunities for our students.
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Get ready to shine some light on our amazing educators! Bull Run Elementary is celebrating Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week from May 4th–8th, and the theme is "SUN-sational."
Here is the daily schedule so your student can join in the fun:
Daily Themes
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Monday: Happy Notes – Bring in a recycled jar or cup filled with notes for the teacher. Prompt: "My favorite thing we did was..."
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Tuesday: Super Bright – Wear your favorite sunglasses/shades to show our staff how bright they are!
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Wednesday: You Are My Sunshine – Students will work together to create a sun using their handprints as rays.
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Thursday: Soak Up the Sun – Wear your favorite Hawaiian shirt or pool gear (keep it school-appropriate, of course!).
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Friday: Keep it Mellow – Wear yellow to celebrate your teacher in your own special way.
Let’s make sure our staff feels the warmth all week long!
Help Wanted: Recess Coverage Volunteers!
We are looking for some extra hands on the playground! To show our amazing teachers some extra appreciation, the PTA is organizing Recess Coverage from May 4th through May 8th. It’s a great way to get some fresh air, see the kids in action, and give our hardworking educators a well-deserved break. If you have some time to spare during that week, we’d love to have you join us!
SIGN UP HERE!
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Get ready to show some school spirit on Monday, May 4th! To honor our amazing staff for Staff Appreciation Week, students are encouraged to "Dress Like Your Favorite Staff Member."
Whether you want to channel your favorite teacher, the principal, a counselor, or any staff member you admire, we can’t wait to see your creative outfits!
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2026 SOL Testing Dates
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Tuesday, May 5
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5th Grade Reading
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6th Grade Reading
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Friday, May 8
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3rd Grade Reading
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4th Grade Reading
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Tuesday, May 12
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5th Grade Math
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6th Grade Math
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Wednesday, May 13
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3rd Grade Math
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4th Grade Math
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Tuesday, May 19
Call for Future Leaders (SCA Officers)
Is your student interested in making a difference at Bull Run? The SCA is looking for officers for the 2026-2027 school year!
Current 5th Graders can run for President, Vice President, or Secretary.
Current 4th Graders can run for Treasurer or Historian.
How to Apply:
1. Pick up an application packet from Ms. Brown or Ms. Diggs starting this Friday, May 1st.
2. Complete the packet and secure two teacher recommendation forms.
3. Turn everything in by the deadline: May 15th.
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Charging into Kindergarten!
Calling all our newest Bull Run families! It’s almost time for Kindergarten Orientation, and we can’t wait to meet our rising scholars. This is a wonderful opportunity to see the school, meet some friendly faces, and get excited for the journey ahead.
When: TONIGHT-Thursday, April 30, 2026
Time: 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Where: Bull Run Elementary
Our amazing Bull Run PTA is hosting a FREE Popcorn Bar for everyone to enjoy! There will even be some swag for the new students to purchase as well!
We can't wait to start the #ChargerSTRONG experience for these young students. We’ll see you there!
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On Friday, May 15, we will have a Community student parade followed by a night event where families can host tables to celebrate their cultures with one another! Celebrating the diversity of cultures within our school not only fosters unity but also gives everyone a chance to learn from one another.
Please REGISTER HERE for the event if you would like to host a table!
There was a flyer sent home last week with a QR Code; please disregard that link and use the one above only.
Thanks and I apologize for any confusion!
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Join the Bull Run PTA Board for the 2026-27 School Year!
Do you want to have a direct hand in making Bull Run Elementary an even better place for our kids? We are officially looking for parent and teacher volunteers to join our 2026-27 PTA Board!
Open Positions Include:
President
Secretary
Treasurer
Marketing Coordinator
VP of Programs
VP of Ways and Means
Teacher Liaisons & Members at Large
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Join the Centreville HS Wildcats for a Festival to Fight Cancer! This "Carnival for a Cause" raises awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research.
The Details
When: Friday, May 8th | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Centreville HS Faculty Parking Lot (6001 Union Mill Rd, Clifton)
Entry: Donation-based! Pay what you can and stay as long as you’d like.
Fun for Everyone
Enjoy a night of ring toss, bowling, face painting, arts & crafts, Kona Ice, and more.
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Join Ms. Kiehlmeier at TECHSTRAVAGANZA!
Event Location: Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 10 AM to 4 PM
Cost: FREE
Registration: Thomas Jefferson HS is asking families to register to get a better estimate of how many lab materials to prepare for the day.
For more information and to register please visit the link: https://techstrav.org/
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Score Your Tickets for Bull Run PTA Nights!
We have two exciting soccer outings coming up with discounted tickets available! Grab the family and come cheer on our local teams:
Loudoun United FC vs. Oakland Roots
When: Saturday, May 2nd @ 5:00 PM
Where: Segra Field, Leesburg (42095 Loudoun United Dr.)
Special Perks: It’s "Kids Night" and parking is free!
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Washington Spirit vs. Seattle Reign FC
When: Saturday, May 30th @ 6:30 PM
Where: Audi Field
Theme: It’s "Youth Nite"—a perfect chance to see some pro action in D.C.!
Price: Tickets start as low as $30
Ready to join us? You can grab your seats by scanning the QR code in the flyer or visiting the purchase link.
Going with a big group? If you are looking to purchase 10 or more tickets, please reach out directly to Jordyn Petroff at jpetroff@washspirit.com for assistance.
Let’s get out there and show our Bull Run spirit!
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Summer Multi-Sport Camp
Keep the momentum going all summer long at the SYA Sports Park. These camps are designed for all skill levels and are a great way to make new friends.
When: Sessions running in June & July
Options: Half-day and full-day sessions available
Who: Groups for Grades 1–3 and 4–6
Ready to play? Head over to syasports.org to grab your spot before they fill up!
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Looking for summer plans? HMC Equestrian in Centreville is now enrolling for their summer horse camps! It’s a fantastic way for kids to learn riding skills and horse care in a fun, hands-on environment.
The Details
Where: 6001 Bull Run Post Office Rd, Centreville, VA
Price: $725/week (Save $10 with code: CAMP10)
Levels: All abilities welcome—from beginners to advanced riders.
2026 Schedule
June 22 – Aug 7: Seven different weeks available.
Weeks 1, 3, 5, & 7: Open to all skill levels.
Weeks 2, 4, & 6: Focused on Intermediate and Advanced riders.
Sign up today: Visit hmcequestrianllc.com or email hmcequestrianllc@gmail.com for more info!
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Tackle the Summer at Wildcat Football Camp!
Calling all 2nd–8th graders! Join Centreville High coaches and players for our 1st Annual Youth Football Camp this June. It’s four days of drills, 7-on-7, and big-time fun.
When: June 8th – 11th | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Where: CVHS Football Stadium
Cost: $200 ($150 for a 2nd camper)
Bonus: Free T-shirt and awards on the final day!
REGISTER HERE
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BULL RUN FRIDAYS!
Bull Run Elementary encourages every student to wear our school colors (blue & white), or school spirit wear every Friday! This is a simple way we can show our community pride! Make a plan with friends and see how many of you can participate! Staff often wear their blue and white or Spirit Wear on Fridays too!
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https://bullrun.deco-apparel.com/ Order Bull Run Spirit Wear at any time throughout the school year!
Jersey Day! Every First Friday of the Month!
Bull Run Elementary encourages every student and staff member to wear a jersey, shirt or colors of their favorite team or sport!
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BENCHMARK UPDATE
Halfway Through Uncovering History in Language Arts
We are halfway through Benchmark Unit 7 in Language Arts! Across grade levels, students have explored why the past is important, how communities evolve, and ancient cultures.
Connect with your child’s learning at school with these fun questions and hands-on activities at home:
- Question: What is one thing people in the past did differently from us? Would you want to live back then? Why or why not?
- Activity: Ask your child to pretend they’ve created a new world. What would they name it? Who would live there? What would it look like and how would it change over time? Have them draw a picture.
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.
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Recognizing BRES staff who go above and beyond
The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for families, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees at Bull Run Elementary. We love our staff members; let's tell them how we feel!
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Discover Exciting Summer Learning Activities and Ideas
Join 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.
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Required Immunizations for Rising 7th Graders
The 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.
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 Students
FCPS, 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.
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SOLace uses past test questions from officially released SOLs and contains intuitive explanations for each question, helping students learn and grow through their practice. Its user-friendly design and advanced accessibility features make it suitable for all students. Visit learnsolace.org today to see how SOLace turns practice into progress.
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Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost
FCPS is partnering 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. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.
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.
Get to Know FCPS and the Resources Available to Families
Being connected to your school community helps you stay informed and support your child’s success. Take some time to get familiar with the many resources and tools available to FCPS families, including:
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School Age Child Care (SACC) – This Fairfax County government program provides a safe and fun environment before and after school for elementary school-age children.
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FCPS Communications for Families – FCPS shares news and information to support student learning and promote family involvement.
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Family Academy – Where families can learn and get support for their child's school journey. Learn more on our website.
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Do You Know About Family Liaisons – Family liaisons serve as a link between families and schools. Find out how family liaisons can support you and your family.
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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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#chargerSTRONG
Mr. Marotta, Mrs. Campbell and Mrs. Rozzoni are proud of our #chargerSTRONG community!
Want to view previous Bull Run Bulletins? Click here.
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