Back to School Updates

Happy Summer Tigers,

As we are closing in on the start of the 2026-2027 school year we wanted to send out a few reminders to make sure that everyone is prepared and ready for the first day of school. 

REGISTRATION

If you have a child whose first year at Mason Crest will be this upcoming school year, please ensure that you have completed the full registration process. Our office is open every morning for walk-in registrations. You may also contact our registrar, Dalya Abu-Ghannam, at either 571-226-2600 or via email at daabughannam@fcps.edu. For information on registering your in FCPS including what documents are required to complete the process can be found at https://www.fcps.edu/about-fcps/registration. Our division and school are currently finalizing staffing numbers and classroom assignments so having complete and accurate registration information is vital to our ability to set all students up for success.

 

TECHNOLOGY AT SCHOOL

In accordance with Virginia's new "Bell to Bell" ban we need to inform you that we will not be allowing students to possess or access smart technologies during the school day. This ban includes cell phones, smart watches, smart glasses, and other personal devices such as iPads and laptops. Students are encouraged to leave these items at home, but may store them in their backpack during the school day if they must bring them to school with them. FCPS has provided guidance to schools for addressing violations of this policy that include confiscation of the technology. Should a student's device be confiscated for possession or use during school hours, a parent or guardian will be required to physically retrieve the item at school.

Additionally the FCPS School Board has sought measures to limit student screen time at school. School staff will be given training on how to both maximize the effectiveness of and decrease time spent using technology as an instructional tool in the classroom. As part of this initiative students in Preschool and Kindergarten will no longer receive instruction through individual screen time, unless required through an individualized educational plan (IEP). Students in grades 1st through 5th will continue to participate in the one-to-one device program but time spent using devices will be monitored and assessed to ensure effective and positive use.

 

IMPORTANT DATES

August 10-13; Kindergarten Jumpstart Program

August 13 @ 12:00 p.m.; Kindergarten Playdate on the Mason Crest Playground

August 19 @ 5:00 - 7:30 p.m.; Mason Crest Welcome Walk

August 21 @ 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.; Mason Crest Open House

August 24; First Day of School for Kindergarten through 5th Grade

August 31; First Day of School for Pre-Kindergarten

September 4 & 7; Labor Day Holiday- No School

September 21; Yom Kippur- No School

September 25 @ 5:00 - 7:30 p.m.; Back to School Night

We hope that you are having a wonderful summer and we cannot wait to see you soon!

Thank you,

Sherry Shin, Shana Conroy, and Larry Aiello

Principals

Mason Crest Elementary School