Orange Hunt News We Hoot!


Dear Families,

As we wrap up another wonderful school year, we want to take a moment to thank you for making it such a special one. This year was filled with learning, growth, laughter, and countless memorable experiences. We are so proud of all that our students have accomplished and grateful for the support of our families and staff who helped make this year a success.

From exciting classroom activities and school events to new friendships and academic achievements, it has truly been a year filled with fun and learning. Watching our students grow and thrive has been one of our greatest joys.

As summer begins, we hope you enjoy this well-deserved break with your family and friends. Take time to relax, explore, and create wonderful memories together. While you're enjoying your summer adventures, don't forget to make reading part of your daily routine. Reading helps keep your mind active and prepares you for another successful school year ahead.

Thank you for being part of our school community. We wish you a safe, happy, and restful summer, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the fall!

With appreciation,

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle, Kate Austin, and Heather Mathews            


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Green Flag Certification

ECO-SCHOOLS
CERTIFICATION IS PROUDLY
PRESENTED TO AND EARNED BY Orange Hunt Elementary School
for completing all criteria for Green Flag certification,
including exemplary education for sustainability
learning and action to conserve resources,
protect habitat and wildlife, and work in
collaboration with the community.


Summer Reading at Orange Hunt

Summer reading is an important way to help prevent the "summer slide" and keep students engaged in learning during the break. There are several opportunities available this summer to encourage students to read for 20–30 minutes each day.

Tomorrow, the Pohick librarians visit our school to meet with students and share information about the Fairfax County Public Library Summer Reading Adventure, which families can access here.

Students may also choose to participate in the Orange Hunt Summer Reading Program, which celebrates America's 250th Anniversary with fun reading challenges. We encourage all our students to make reading part of their summer routine and enjoy exploring new books all season long! Printable version here (flyers will come home with students as well).

Read to celebrate America's 250th birthday! Complete at least four activities and turn it into your teacher by August 28th for a water bottle reading sticker. you can also complete this online form by August 28th http://tinyurl.com/OHESread 

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Kindergarten Registration 2026-27

There’s an easy process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:

  1. Determine eligibility. Identify your local school. 
  2. Gather documents. 
  3. Fill out forms. 
  4. Schedule an appointment.

Enrolling parent is required to attend the in-person appointment. Once completed the student will be ready for Kindergarten introductory events that Orange Hunt will host.

Please share with families you may know that have a child who will turn 5 on or before September 30, 2026!

If you have any questions, please reach out to Anne-Marie Balmaceda at acbalmaceda@fcps.edu or 703-913-6800.


School Supply Order 

You can order your supplies here through the PTA or shop the traditional way with the supply list located just below this newsletter. 

Order here: https://www.educationalproducts.com/ShopPacks/ Orange Hunt Elementary School early discount deadline is 7/1/2026. Use School ID: OHE101

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Supply Lists for the 2026-2027 School Year

Kindergarten Supply List

First Grade Supply List

Second Grade Supply List

Third Grade Supply List

Fourth Grade Supply List

Fifth Grade Supply List

Sixth Grade Supply List


New Cell Phone Policy Starts July 1 - VA Law

On Thursday, May 7, the Fairfax County School Board approved changes to FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R). The approved changes include updated guidance for cell phone possession and use, in order to align FCPS’ cell phone policy with Senate Bill 108. This new Virginia law goes into effect on July 1, 2026 and states that all schools must follow a “bell-to-bell” phone-free policy.

This means that starting July 1, 2026, across all grade levels at FCPS, cell phones, phone accessories, and all smart devices (including watches that serve a dual purpose, such as smart watches, as well as airpods, earbuds, headsets, smart glasses, and other other items connected to the internet) must be off and personally stored (i.e., put away in backpacks) for the duration of the school day – thus, no cell phones from bell to bell. Students will not use cell phones or smart devices as listed above at all   More details are available on FCPS’ Cell Phone Policy webpage


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Summer Office Hours

Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.


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Upcoming Events

June brings many activities in classrooms and for our rising 7th graders. Please watch for announcements from your child's classroom teacher.

Stay tuned! 

 


PTA News & Events 

Check out the PTA website for information on all activities. 

Looking for Orange Hunt Spirit Wear check out the PTA website for a great collection

Orange Hunt Elementary PTA - OHES PTA Blog


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Your Partners In Education

We are in this together!!  We are thankful to have the opportunity to work with your family this year and will work every day to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for your child. Please contact us when there is a question or concern. Thank you for your support and being part of our team!

Your Partner Principals,

Karen Tuttle                     kmtuttle@fcps.edu

Kate Austin                      kbaustin@fcps.edu

Heather Mathews            HMMathews@fcps.edu


Want To Be Involved?

Visit the Orange Hunt PTA website for all sponsored events and activities.