English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو
Dear Bull Run Families,
We had a great second week of school getting used to new routines, making new, and reconnecting with old, friends, and getting started on instruction and beginning of year screeners.
Looking ahead, I look forward to seeing many of you at Back to School Night (see information below); but until then, here is a link to Dr. Reid's welcome back video, and a message about FCPS' Strategic Plan that we will be supporting here at Bull Run:
https://youtu.be/9dr0D2VYqo8
Please see some important information below regarding volunteers, safety drills, chorus sign up, and more!
Reminder:
Tomorrow, Friday September 04th, there is NO SCHOOL due to the Labor Day Holiday!
Have a wonderful long weekend!
-Mr. Marotta
*The full FCPS 2026-2027 calendar can be accessed here.
September 04 and 07: NO SCHOOL (Labor Day Holiday)
September 08: PTA Meeting-Zoom, 7:00pm
https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/99295620114?pwd=E9yBhagtHKo2OfICwk9zabYjFOTPad.1
Passcode: 339220
September 11: Patriot Day (observance)
September 11-13: Rosh Hashanah (observance) begins and ends at Sundown
September 15 and 17: Back To School Nights
September 15 (PK-3); September 17 (4-6);
Two session options for families that may have multiple students in different grades:
5:30 – 5:50 Principal Welcome in Cafeteria for session 1
5:55 – 6:25 Classrooms Session 1 / Principal Welcome in Cafeteria for session 2
6:30 – 7:00 Classrooms Session 2
September 17: Constitution Day
September 18: SCA Spirit Day (see information below in the Spirit Days section)
September 20-21: Yom Kippur (observance) begins and ends at Sundown
September 21: NO SCHOOL (Yom Kippur)
September 25: PTA’s Back To School Bash event, 5:30pm-7:30pm
|
5th Grade conducted their annual “Starbooks” event, where students ‘taste’ different books. A great way to make learning fun!
|
 |
|
Mrs. Leary's 6th grade Algebra Math class engaged in their learning. |
A central part of maintaining a strong academic culture is managing technology. In accordance with FCPS Regulation 2601, cellphones, smartwatches, and accessories (such as AirPods, earbuds, headsets, and smart glasses) must be powered off and stored away in backpacks throughout the entire school day.
Smartwatches specifically is an update from last year’s SR&R document. Under the updated "bell-to-bell" cellphone and smart device policy, dual-purpose watches (smartwatches) must be turned off completely and personally stored (such as inside a backpack) for the entire duration of the school day.
We ask for your partnership in making this policy successful. To help keep classroom disruptions to a minimum, please avoid contacting your child directly on their personal device during school hours. You can support this initiative by:
- Contact our main office directly for urgent family matters or emergencies so staff can relay important information to your child promptly.
- Reserving non-urgent communications for before or after the school day.
- Pausing before responding to non-urgent texts from your student until school has ended.
We encourage you to talk with your child about these expectations and the reasons behind them.
We want YOU to join our 2026-2027 Bull Run Chorus!
Bull Run students in 5th and 6th grade can become members of our chorus! Chorus classes take place once a week during the regular school day. Chorus is an additional class, so students can take band or strings AND chorus if they choose.
REGISTRATION FOR CHORUS FOR THIS SCHOOL YEAR IS NOW OPEN!!!
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18th is the DEADLINE TO SIGN UP.
Sign up for Chorus (5th and 6th graders only) Click Here to Register
We are looking forward to a fun-filled, rewarding music adventure with our 5th and 6th grade students!
Sincerely,
Mrs. Butler-Noel and Ms. Lynskey
|
Volunteers and Visitors at Bull Run: Beginning September 21st.
To ensure a smooth transition for all students, we will not be accepting classroom visitors or volunteers until the week of September 21st. This pause applies to all volunteer roles, including Wednesday Folder stuffers and library helpers, as well as guest visits to the cafeteria to eat lunch with your child.
Reserving these first few weeks exclusively for students and staff allows our young learners to build independence and confidence as they master school routines without added distractions. Additionally, it gives our staff the time needed to finalize classroom schedules, foster strong classroom communities, and fully solidify building security and guest sign-in procedures. We deeply appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we lay a strong, safe foundation for the year ahead, and we look forward to welcoming our wonderful family volunteers into the building starting September 21st!
TIPS AND REMINDERS:
-
ALL VISITORS (FOR ANY REASON) MUST HAVE THEIR PHYSICAL IDENTIFICATION TO ENTER THE BUILDING.
-
All volunteers must be registered in the county system. Level 1 is required to help with Wednesday Folders, in the classrooms, etc. If you want to be considered to be a chaperone for any field trips, you would need to register as a Level 2. Please see the Volunteering Sign-Up Process blelow:
Step 1: Go to FCPS website
Step 2:Search for VOLUNTEER
Step 3:Click on VOLUNTEER PROCESS
Step 4:Click on SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER
Step 5:Click on SCHOOLS
Step 6:Scroll down to BULL RUN -Learn More
Step 7:Click on GENERAL VOLUNTEERING – Learn More
Step 8: Click on SIGN UP
Step 9:Click on LOG IN or NEW VOLUNTEER
Step 10:Fill out the Volunteer Profile to get started!!
- If you haven't already done so, please create an account on the Raptor security sign-in system to save yourself time when visiting our building!
https://raptortech.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Raptor-Safe-Visitor-Install-and-Onboading-2025.pdf
September 15 and 17: Back To School Nights
September 15 (Grades PK-3); September 17 (Grades 4-6);
Two session options for families that may have multiple students in different grades:
5:30 – 5:50 Principal Welcome in Cafeteria for session 1
5:55 – 6:25 Classrooms Session 1 / Principal Welcome in Cafeteria for session 2
6:30 – 7:00 Classrooms Session 2
|
Upcoming PTA Events:
The PTA Needs You!
Join the PTA to have a voice in shaping your child’s school, build lasting connections with families and teachers, and help create opportunities that make every student’s experience stronger and more successful.
- Volunteer for PTA "Power Hours" - Sign Up Today
- Can't volunteer time? The PTA has an Amazon Wishlist for event supplies for the upcoming events.
|
After School Clubs - Registration Now Open
Chess Club All Grades: September 28-December 14 | Mondays | 4:15-5:15 PM Cost: $220 REGISTER
Flag Football Grades K-2: September 28-November 3 | Mondays | 4:15-5:15 PM Grades 3-6: September 24-November 12| Thursdays | 4:15-5:15 PM Cost: $160 REGISTER
RunFit Kidz
Who: Grades 1–6
When: Tuesdays, 4:15 PM – 5:30 PM (Sep 22 – Nov 10)
Celebration 5K: Sunday, November 15 at Fairfax Corner
Cost: $134 (Includes $5 school admin fee)
Details: Professional coaches teach running mechanics, pacing, strength, and healthy nutrition habits. Registration includes a RunFit Kidz T-shirt, mileage tokens, 5K entry, finisher medal, and a post-race party!
Register: Visit prtrainingprograms.com/runfit-kidz
(Click on "register now" and select Bull Run Elementary School)
|
Join us for the Kids and Masters Art Program at Bull Run Elementary! Students will explore their creativity and try new techniques, including a special two-hour clay session.
Quick Details:
When: Thursdays, 4:15 PM – 5:30 PM (Sept 24 – Dec 10)
Where: Art Room 226
Cost: $204 (All materials included)
Discounts: 20% off for staff children | 10% off for siblings
Space is limited to 20 students!
Register today at: kids-and-masters-art.square.site Questions? Email enchantedpath@earthlink.net or call 703-589-7891 (please include your child's school name).
|
Sponsored by the BRES PTA, these introductory music classes require no prior experience or instrument. Parents and teachers are welcome to join as well!
|
Who: Guitar for Grades 1–3 (with Ms. Berg); Piano for Grades 3–6 (with Dr. Lee)
When: Tuesdays, 4:15–5:15 PM | Sept 22 – Nov 10 (No class on Nov 3)
Cost: $140 for 7 weeks (+$15 fee if you don't own a guitar; includes a take-home portable fretboard)
Deadline: Register by Saturday, Sept 12
How to Join: Visit www.MusicallyCreative.com
|
Not Just Dance After School Theatre Program A fun environment for kids to build confidence, communication, and imagination through improv games, role-playing, choreography, and scene work.
Who: Grades 1–6
When: Fridays, 4:15–5:15 PM | Sept 18 – Dec 18, 2026 (10 weeks; No class Sept 25, Oct 30, Nov 27, Dec 4)
Cost: $145 per student (includes a $5 PTA fee)
Deadline: Register by Wednesday, Sept 16, 2026 (First come, first serve)
How to Join: Register at notjustdance.net/special-programs/after-school-program/ or call 571-392-3209
|
SYA After School Soccer Club Get active after school with co-ed skills, games, and fun!
Who: Grades 1–4
When: Wednesdays, 4:15–5:15 PM | Sep 7 – Nov 4, 2026 (No club on Oct 21)
Where: Indoors at Bull Run ES
Cost: $180 for 8 weeks
How to Join: Register at www.syasports.org or email info@syasports.org
|
SYA Winter Sports Programs
Who: Boys and girls, ages 5–18
Sports Offered: Basketball, Wrestling, and Soccer Camp
Special Discount: Save $15 off if you register before September 30 (no promo code needed)!
How to Register: Visit www.syasports.org or email info@syasports.org
|
Overtime Athletics Flag Football
Grades K–2: Mondays, 4:15 PM – 5:15 PM (Sep 28 – Nov 30)
Grades 3–6: Thursdays, 4:15 PM – 5:15 PM (Sep 24 – Nov 12)
Cost: $160
Details: Designed to keep students engaged with positive energy, active play, team skills, and structured fun!
Register: Visit www.otathletics.com or email DMV@otathletics.com
|
 |
|
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!
|
 |
|
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!
https://bullrun.deco-apparel.com/ Order Bull Run Spirit Wear at any time to get ready for the school year!
|
Get ready to show off your school pride on September 18th for our very first SCA Spirit Day: the Class Color Challenge!
How to Participate:
Pick a Color: Classes will work together as a team to choose ONE single color for their entire class (contact your child's teacher for specifics)
Dress up: Show your spirit by wearing that same chosen color from head to toe on September 18th!
Get Creative: Have fun, unleash your class pride, and help make our school bright and colorful!
Class Competition: Our School Administration will be visiting classrooms throughout the day to select the TOP 3 CLASSES showing the absolute most color spirit!
|
 |
|
Benchmark Advance Weekly Updates (coming soon, beginning the week of 09/17) |
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!
|
|
 |
Save the Date: Community Conversations with Superintendent Reid
Your voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! At FCPS, parents are partners, working with us to set our students up for long-term success at school and in life.
A series of Community Conversations will be held across the school division. You are invited to share your thoughts with Dr. Reid and ask her questions. Events are planned for the following dates at 6:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted):
- Wednesday, September 16, 6:45 p.m., at McNair Elementary School
- Monday, September 28, at Riverside Elementary School
- Monday, October 19, at Spring Hill Elementary School
- Monday, October 26, at Beech Tree Elementary School
- Thursday, October 29, at North Springfield Elementary School
- Friday, November 13, at Colin Powell Elementary School
Registration links will be shared soon. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are one-hour long and open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.
The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 1: Strong Start, Pre-K-12
The FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.
The first goal of the strategic plan focuses on each and every student having a strong start in FCPS. Whether they’re joining us in preschool or in high school, we want our students to be set up for success.See how Goal 1 is being put into practice. Learn more about or enroll in FCPS Pre-K or Early Head Start.
|
Safety Drills During the School Year
Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for FCPS. Each school has an emergency preparedness plan to respond to incidents such as fires and extreme weather. Schools are required by state law to practice emergency drills, including lockdown drills, each year. Schools are also required to notify parents and guardians at least 24 hours before a school conducts a lockdown drill. However, schools are not required to give the specific date and time of the drill in advance.
The first lockdown drill of the school year must take place within the first 20 days of school. Preschool and kindergarten students are exempt from practicing the first lockdown drill.
Your child may come home and talk about their experience during the drill. We encourage you to talk with your child about the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Please review these frequently asked questions to support your child before and after school lockdown drills.
Know Our Security Terms
FCPS uses specific terminology to describe the actions school staff and students should take to ensure safety in a variety of situations. It is important for staff, families, and students to understand what the different terms mean and how they impact school operations.
Watch this video to learn about safety terms including lockdown; secure the building; and stay put, stay tuned.
If students, staff, or families have a safety concern at school (that is not an immediate emergency), they should submit a tip to the FCPS Safety Tipline. In an emergency, please call 9-1-1.
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:
-
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.
-
FCPS Communications for Families – FCPS shares news and information to support student learning and promote family involvement.
- The FCPS Family Academy is where families can learn and get support for their child’s school journey. Check out its catalog for upcoming classes, workshops, and webinars to help families learn about FCPS, parenting, early literacy, and how to partner with schools.
-
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.
-
Study Help and Support Available to Students in Schoology: A new Schoology Study and Support Hub is available for students in Schoology. This space was developed by the FCPS Educational Technology Team with input from students. It is designed to provide essential study tools and academic support resources directly to our learners. Students can log in to Schoology and read their Schoology announcements or watch this video on the support hub for more information
|
Parent Information Lines Available in Eight Languages
Family Information Line Available in Nine Languages
Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, English, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. View the list of phone numbers.
|
FCPS This Week
In case you missed it in https://www.fcps.edu/news/fcps-week-september-2-2026, the school division shared updates on the following topics:
- Community Conversations with Superintendent Reid
- Weather Safety
- Attendance Resources for Families
Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.
|
#chargerSTRONG
 Mr. Marotta, Mrs. Campbell and Mrs. Rozzoni are proud of our #chargerSTRONG community!
Want to view previous Bull Run Bulletins? Click here.
|
