|
English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو
July 29, 2026
Summer Office Hours
Our Virginia Run office will be open from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Please call the school office at 703-988-8900 if you need to unenroll and/or register a student for the 2026-27 school year or email Betty Bancroft at ekbancroft@fcps.edu.
IN THIS ISSUE
-
Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates
-
Kindergarten Registration
-
Meet the Virginia Run Administrators & Staff at Eclipse at Westfields
-
Superintendent's Family Vision Group
-
Virginia Run School Garden Update
- ParentVue Update
- New Student ID Cards and Bus Navigation System
- Open House Event August 2026
- Elementary Early Release Wednesdays - Childcare Information via Student Online Verification/Update
- Free and Reduced Price Meals - Apply Now
- Summer Reading Book Bingo 2026
- Helping Your Child Learn at Home
- Virginia Run 2026-2027 Strings Registration Now Open!
- Virginia Run 2026-2027 Band Registration Now Open!
- New Cell Phone Policy Started July 1
- Important Upcoming Dates
- Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
A poster of the Virginia Run Elementary School Vision and Mission Statements.
1. 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!
2. 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.
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.
3. Meet the Virginia Run Administrators & Staff at Eclipse at Westfields!
The Virginia Run administrative team and staff members are excited to meet families in one of our newest neighborhoods!
Friday, August 14
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Eclipse at Westfields – Grassy Common Area on George Carter Way
If you live in the Eclipse at Westfields community, stop by to say hello! We'll have free popsicles and bookmarks for students, and we'd love the opportunity to meet you, answer questions about the upcoming school year, and welcome you to the Virginia Run Elementary community.
Whether you're new to Virginia Run Elementary School or have lived in one of our neighborhoods for years, we hope you'll stop by for a few minutes. We look forward to seeing you there!
Viking Strong. We Are ONE VRES!
4. Superintendent's Family Vision Group
Virginia Run Elementary School is seeking two parent or caregiver representatives to serve on the Fairfax County Public Schools Superintendent's Family Vision Group for the 2026–27 school year.
The Superintendent's Family Vision Group provides families with an opportunity to partner directly with FCPS by sharing perspectives, providing feedback, and helping strengthen the connection between schools, families, and the division. Representatives serve as consistent voices for our Virginia Run community and participate in meetings throughout the school year.
We encourage all interested parents and caregivers to consider this opportunity. You do not need to be a PTA member or have previously served in a leadership role to apply.
Representatives are expected to:
- Attend Family Vision Group meetings throughout the school year.
- Serve as one of Virginia Run's designated representatives.
- Share ideas and feedback that help strengthen family engagement across FCPS.
If you are interested in being considered as one of Virginia Run Elementary School's representatives, please email Principal Dave Gerstner at drgerstner@fcps.edu.
A picture of the Virginia Run Garden
5.Virginia Run School Garden Update
Our Virginia Run School Garden has continued to flourish throughout the summer, thanks to the incredible dedication of our parent volunteers and community members! A heartfelt thank you to Emi Connors, Libbie Prakash, Lauri Reagan, Megan Shifflett, and Anita Jewett for generously giving their time to water, weed, and care for our garden while school has been out. Their commitment has truly kept the garden thriving, and we are so grateful for their support. This has definitely been a team effort!
We have already enjoyed our first harvests of the summer. Our radishes were picked and turned into delicious dishes by Libbie Prakash, and Emi Connors recently harvested our cucumbers that were ready this past weekend. It's exciting to see the fruits (and vegetables!) of everyone's hard work.
Please enjoy a few photos of our beautiful garden and the recent harvests. We look forward to continuing this work together and sharing the garden with our students as we begin another amazing school year.
Thank you to everyone who has helped make our school garden such a special place!
A picture of a cucumber from the garden
6.ParentVue Update
New ParentVUE Mobile App Launching July 28
On Tuesday, July 28, a new ParentVUE mobile app will become available in the Apple and Google app stores. This new app provides parents and caregivers with a more secure sign-in. The current “classic” app will remain active for about six months. Families must download the new app by December 2026 to ensure they have continued mobile access to their child’s school data.
In the new app, families can enroll in multi-factor authentication (MFA) for FCPS Single Sign-On. While enrollment is optional, we strongly recommend that everyone enable this security feature.
Learn more about installing the new ParentVUE app. Parents needing assistance should submit a Parent Support Request.
7.New Student ID Cards and Bus Navigation System
This fall, every FCPS student will receive a student identification (ID) card as part of a divisionwide effort to modernize school transportation, improve communication with families, and strengthen student safety while traveling to and from school.
Every student who rides the school bus will need to tap on and tap off the bus every day using their new Student ID card. Families can help by reinforcing this new habit with their child.
Learn more about the new transportation system and student ID cards.
A picture of a beautiful flower in our school garden
8.Open House Event August 2026
Dear Virginia Run Families,
We are thrilled to welcome our students and families back to Virginia Run Elementary School for another incredible year! There is no better way to kick off the school year than by reconnecting with friends, meeting new teachers, and celebrating together as ONE VRES.
Please join us for our annual Open House and PTA Back to School Bash on Thursday, August 20, 2026. This special afternoon is a wonderful opportunity to explore classrooms, meet our outstanding staff, reconnect with familiar faces, and welcome new members of our Virginia Run family.
Beginning at 1:30 p.m., our PTA will host the traditional PTA Back to School Bash on the blacktop. Families are invited to bring a snack, enjoy music, spend time together, and celebrate the start of another amazing school year. Free popsicles will be available, and Bach to Rock will provide live entertainment throughout the afternoon. We hope you'll stay, relax, and enjoy this fun community event with us!
Teacher Assignments Available in ParentVUE
Families will be able to view their child's 2026-27 teacher assignment beginning at 12:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 20 through their ParentVUE account. We encourage families to log in before arriving at Open House so you'll know which classroom to visit.
If you have not yet activated your ParentVUE account, you can learn more and get started by visiting the FCPS ParentVUE information page: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/technology/student-information-system-sis-fcps/sis-parent-account-overview
Don't have a ParentVUE account yet? No problem! We will have a ParentVUE assistance table available in the cafeteria during Open House where staff members can help you create your account. Once your account is activated, you'll be able to view your child's teacher assignment for the upcoming school year.
Mark Your Calendars
Thursday, August 20, 2026
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Stone Middle School Open House
1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Virginia Run Open House
To help create a comfortable experience for everyone, we recommend the following classroom visit schedule:
- Last names A through L: 1:45 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
- Last names M through Z: 2:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.
1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Bach to Rock performs on the blacktop during the PTA Back to School Bash.
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Westfield High School Open House
We cannot wait to welcome everyone back and begin another year of learning, growing, and celebrating together. Thank you for being such an important part of our Virginia Run community. We look forward to seeing you on August 20 as we kick off another fantastic year as ONE VRES!
My best,
Dave Gerstner
Principal
9.Elementary Early Release Wednesdays - Childcare Information via Student Online Verification/Update
The 2026–27 Online Verification/Update (OVU) packet will be available in ParentVUE starting July 24.
The OVU packet includes a section where parents can request childcare for the four elementary Early Release Wednesdays.
We encourage all families to sign up for a ParentVUE account. This will give you direct access to essential student information and allow you to submit your childcare requests.
10.Free and Reduced Price Meals - Apply Now
Apply Today for Free and Reduced-Price Meals
According to the Centers for Disease Control, eating breakfast at school is associated with better attendance rates, fewer missed school days, and better test scores. Studies show that students who eat both school breakfast and lunch tend to have healthier diets than those who don't participate in school meals.
Families who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals can receive breakfast and lunch for their students at no cost or at a reduced cost. This includes more than one-third of FCPS students. Families must complete the Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM) application before the start of each school year. Approved applications may also qualify students for additional benefits.
The application for FRM is now available for the 2026-27 school year. Students who were approved for FRM last year are eligible for the first 30 days of school this year (or until a new application is processed). Families should reapply as soon as possible so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost.
Access the application and view criteria and up-to-date information on the FRM webpage. Families should reach out to their schools with questions or for assistance.
11.Summer Reading Book Bingo 2026
Let’s keep reading all summer! Complete our fun VRES Summer Reading Bingo Board and return it to our librarian, Mrs. Siwert, the first week of school. Everyone who turns in a Bingo Board will be able to choose a prize! Bingo Boards will be sent home with students on the last day of school. Go here to print another copy in English or Spanish.
12. Helping Your Child Learn at Home
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is excited to support student learning over the summer. This Summer Learning Resources Webpage includes optional digital activities in Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies for students in Grades K-6. These activities require a device to access and some require students to log in through their FCPS Google account. Students may use a home device or their borrowed FCPS school device. Some digital resources in Clever may be temporarily unavailable in August in preparation for the new school year. If you need technology support, please visit the Families: Tools and Technology page.
Students will have access to familiar digital tools such as:
- Science A-Z
- PebbleGo
- Gizmos
- Newsela
- MyOn
- Britannica Elementary
- ST Math
Other fun learning opportunities this summer include:
-
FCPS Public Library Reading Adventure Keep students reading, learning, and exploring through books and activities from June 17 to August 19. Children and adults can earn badges and win prizes by reading, listening to books, or completing activities.
-
Book It! During the summer months of June, July, and August, any child that meets their parent-set reading goals can earn a free Pizza Hut® single topping Personal Pan Pizza® from participating locations.
-
Chuck E Cheese Reading Rewards Get ten free play points for reading and filling out the Reading Rewards Calendar, these resources are also available in Spanish.
-
Barnes and Noble Participation is a fun and easy way for kids to earn free books by reading books, writing about them in Barnes & Noble's reading journal, and collecting their free book from a store near them during July and August.
13. Virginia Run 2026-2027 Strings Registration Now Open!
Fairfax County Public School students in grades 4-12 can participate in their school’s String Orchestra Program. Strings classes take place once a week for an hour during the school day. Strings becomes part of the student's weekly specials schedule. Classroom instruction is not missed during strings class time. Music and method books are provided by the school.
Virginia Run Strings students have the opportunity to participate in many exciting events during the school year. Some events may include: Solo Spotlight, Strings Karate and School Concerts. Students who continue to participate in middle and high school are able to go on orchestra field trips, participate in county and state events, participate in Solo & Ensemble Festivals, and gain many lasting friendships.
Studies have shown that playing an instrument has many benefits especially for the brain. Music training improves cognitive abilities such as working memory and attention across our life span. Music training is a whole brain workout! Playing an instrument is also fun and rewarding! How awesome and rewarding is it to ‘hear” your hard work pay off? Strings students develop a sense of pride, accomplishment and experience being an important member of a group.
In order to participate in Strings, each student will need an instrument. You may rent an instrument from a local music store. It is recommended you rent an instrument instead of buying one. Instruments come in different sizes, so be sure to take your child with you to get sized correctly. Many local music stores offer rent-to-own programs in which you can trade for the next size when your student grows. It is important that a beginner student has a good quality instrument to play so that they do not experience unnecessary frustration trying to learn. Please do not purchase an instrument off the internet. These are often poor quality instruments. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! There is also a limited supply of cellos and basses at the school available to rent. Ask Mrs. Bonanno if you are interested.
Students who have applied for the county assistance program can receive an instrument (violin or viola) for a reduced fee of $20. If you are interested in this option, check the “County Instrument Rental” option on the registration form, and more information will be sent home to you in the fall.
Please use the link below to register.
Strings Registration 2026-27
14. Virginia Run 2026-2027 Band Registration Now Open!
Hello 5th and 6th grade Students and Parents!
All interested students in 5th and 6th grade have the opportunity to learn an instrument as part of the band program. No previous musical experience required! Students that choose to join the band will participate in a one-hour lesson once a week during our specials block. Participating in Band and learning to play a musical instrument is a really fun and rewarding activity that also provides innumerous benefits to a child's overall development. Participating in Band teaches students to be patient and persistent with difficult tasks, delay gratification by practicing in order to sound better, develop curiosity, problem solve, and develop their listening and teamwork skills. I hope you will consider signing your child up for Band!
CHOOSING AN INSTRUMENT
Students have the option of playing Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Baritone/Euphonium, Tuba or Percussion.
PLEASE DO NOT PURCHASE OR RENT AN INSTRUMENT FOR YOUR CHILD UNTIL THEY HAVE MET WITH ME FIRST! I will be meeting with all interested Beginning Band students individually during the first two weeks of school to allow them to try out the different instruments and mouthpieces to help them choose an instrument that is a good fit.
BAND CLASSES ARE TENTATIVELY SCHEDULED TO BEGIN THE THIRD WEEK OF SCHOOL!
*6th GRADE STUDENTS WHO WERE IN BAND LAST YEAR AND CONTINUING ON THE SAME INSTRUMENT WILL BE SIGNING UP FOR ADVANCED BAND!*
RENTING AN INSTRUMENT FROM A LOCAL MUSIC STORE
Most music stores in the area provide an instrument rental/purchase plan. Fees paid during the rental period can be credited toward the purchase of the instrument at a later time. There are several quality music stores near GBE that offer rental of high quality instruments--I will provide you with a list of recommended music stores after your child has made a decision on what instrument they would like to play. DO NOT PURCHASE A CHEAP INSTRUMENT ON AMAZON OR ANYWHERE ONLINE! These instruments are poor quality, difficult to play, break easily, and are not repairable!
RENTAL ASSISTANCE - "Instruments For All" Program
If you have applied for financial assistance through FCPS (reduced field trip fees, school supplies provided to your family, etc.) then you also qualify to receive an instrument at a reduced rental fee through the FCPS Instruments for All program. The county can only provide Flutes, Clarinets, Trumpets, Trombones, or Percussion Kits through this program. There is an option you can click on in the online registration form if you would like more information on this program. If you qualify for the IFA program, I will provide your child with an instrument rental contract to take home after they meet with me and decide on an instrument.
FAQs
Q: Do you accept 6th grade beginners?
A: YES!!! We would love to have as many 5th and 6th graders as possible in our band program this year, which means many 6th graders will be taking on this opportunity for the first time.
Q: How much time outside of school will this take up?
A: All of our band classes happen during the school day and there will be only one evening concert in the Spring which all students will be required to attend—more information on this will come later. Beyond that, band students are expected to practice regularly at home (10-15 minutes per day) but that is done individually so your student is free to work it into their schedule however it best suits your family.
If you have any questions please email me anytime! I am looking forward to another fantastic year for the VRES Band Program!
Sincerely,
Mr. William Schnepper
VRES Band Director
wjschnepper@fcps.edu
Please use the link below to register.
Band Registration 2026-27
15. New Cell Phone Policy Started July 1
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 went into effect on July 1 and states that all schools must follow a “bell-to-bell” phone-free policy.
This means that 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. More details are available on FCPS’ Cell Phone Policy webpage.
Virginia Run's Administration team: Dave Gerstner, Principal, Jessica Green, Assistant Principal, and Lauren Arreaza, Assistant Principal.
16. Important Upcoming Dates
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
8/20: Open House & Picnic
- Last names A through L: 1:45 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
- Last names M through Z: 2:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.
8/24: First Day of School, 9:00 AM - 4 PM
9/9: Back to School Night
10/21: Early Release Wednesday-Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM
12/2: Early Release Wednesday-Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM
2/10: Early Release Wednesday-Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM
5/5: Early Release Wednesday-Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM
17. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
|
