|
English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو
Cubbies looking at our caterpillar/butterfly enclosure. Thank you Mrs. Canestra for introducing our Cubbies to the wonders of the monarch butterfly!
Upcoming Dates
September 11: National Day of Service & Remembrance
September 17: Back to School Night
September 20: Asha-Jyothi 5K & Fun Run (see below for details)
September 21: No School - Yom Kippur
September 30: Review and Sign SR&R in ParentVUE
October 2: Westfield High School Homecoming Parade
View the 2026-27 school year calendar for additional important dates.
Cubbie News
Dear Cub Run Families and Friends,
As we walk through our halls, join morning meetings, and visit classrooms, it has been remarkable to see our Cubbies settle into their new routines and learning environments.
Last week, we were thrilled to gather as a full school community for our C.A.R.E.S. assembly. Together, we reconnected with our school expectations, proudly recited our new Cubbie Pledge, and celebrated earning our first school-wide incentive—popsicles with our buddy classes! Watching older and younger students connect, build meaningful relationships, and live out our motto, Together, We Belong, was truly inspiring.
It has been an incredible first few weeks of school, and we are so excited for the journey ahead!
Warm regards,
Melissa Miller, Principal
Nausheen Haider, Assistant Principal
Stephanie Kaminsky, Assistant Principal
National Day of Service & Remembrance - September 11
With the upcoming 25th anniversary of the tragedy of September 11, 2001, FCPS acknowledges the loss of life, the heroism of our first responders, and the resilience of our country. The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, also called Patriot Day, is a chance to reflect and act in service to others to honor those who were injured or killed in the terrorist attacks.
All FCPS students are encouraged to participate in service learning as it supports Portrait of a Graduate (POG) attributes and social and emotional learning (SEL) skills. X2VOL is an online tool that FCPS middle and high schools use to support students with finding, tracking, and verifying service hours. Middle and high school students can learn more about service learning by logging into Schoology to access their x2VOL account.
Back to School Night - September 17
Please join us for Back to School Night on Thursday, September 17. This evening, our teachers will be presenting sessions, you can meet our specialists, and hear important FCPS information on what to expect this school year. We look forward to seeing you!
6:00-6:40PM - Session 1 & Welcome Videos
6:00-7:15PM - Specialists available in library
6:50-7:30PM - Session 2 & Welcome Videos
Photo Opt-outs
This is a reminder that opting your child out of photographs and school social media must be done each year in ParentVUE. This opt-out can be submitted at any time during the year by logging into your SIS ParentVUE account, navigating to the Student Info tab, and selecting Edit Information. For questions about photo opt-out options, please see our school website here under the ParentVUE section. We kindly request that you submit your opt out no later than September 30.
Talking Points App Chat Setting
You can change your settings in the Talking Points App so communication between the teacher and a students' grown-ups can be read like a group chat!
Step 1: Tap the 'Settings' tab.
Step 2: Select the student you want to share messages for.
Step 3: Tap the 'Share messages' toggle.
A dark purple icon appears next to other family contacts who are using the app and have shared messaging turned on. When you turn on shared messaging, you will begin to share messages with any other contacts who have the dark purple icon next to their name.
18th Annual Asha Jyothi 5K - September 20
Join our Cub Run Staff and Community for the 18th Annual Asha Jyothi 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run.
Where: Fairfax Corner Race Date: Sunday Sept 20, 2026
Race Time: Fun Run starts at 8AM and 5K starts at 8:30AM
Asha-Jyothi (meaning Ray of Hope) is a volunteer based non-profit organization dedicated to serving the needs of the underprivileged by providing access to Education and Healthcare. Their mission is guided by Asha-Jyothi’s core values of strength, commitment, collaboration and integrity.
100% of your registration fee is donated back to Cub Run. Coupon Code: AJ4Schools Registration includes AJ T-Shirt, Kids' Medals, Food and Bollywood Music.
Bonus Incentives- Additional donations to CR
25 - 49 Registrations = additional $500
50 - 99 Registrations = additional $1,000
100 - 249 Registrations = additional $2,000
250+ Registrations = additional $10,000
All proceeds raised will go towards student field trips, supporting school-wide hands on learning experiences to include STEAM, family and community engagements and to support student needs.
Our Cub Run Bonus Incentives
Slime the principals: 75 Registrations
Inflatable Race: 100 Registrations
Tape the principals to the wall: 150 Registrations
* Bring the whole family and join the Cub Run team! Let's go Cubbies! *
Calendar Reminders:
Constitution Day and Citizenship Day
On September 17 each year, schools honor Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, which commemorates the signing of the Constitution on September 17, 1787, and recognizes “all who, by coming of age or by naturalization, have become citizens.”
Rosh Hashanah (evening-only observance)
Shanah tovah to our Jewish community celebrating Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year! Meaning “head of the year,” Rosh Hashanah is one of Judaism’s holiest days and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection that ends with Yom Kippur. #OurFCPS
Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Friday, September 11. That day is an evening-only observance day. Important events will not be held after school.
Yom Kippur Holiday
Monday, September 21, is a holiday, and schools and offices will be closed.
See the complete school year calendar.
Family Volunteers Needed
We’re looking for parent volunteers to pick up Weekend Snack Bags for our students.
- Pickup: Every other Wednesday at around 10:30 a.m.
- Location: Northern Virginia Hebrew Congregation, 1441 Wiehle Ave., Reston, VA
- What you’ll need: Enough space in your vehicle for 8 rectangular 66-quart plastic bins, each containing 10 bags of nonperishable snacks.
You can sign up for one date or multiple dates—whatever works best for you!
Sign-Up : https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090949ABA62CA0FA7-food#/
If you have any questions, please contact Helen Seo, Family Liaison, at hseo@fcps.edu.
Thank you for supporting our students!
Advanced Academics Programs
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is committed to challenging all students through talent development and differentiated instruction. A continuum of Advanced Academic Program (AAP) services is available to students in Grades K-12 and is designed to match services to each student’s unique academic needs.
Identification for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP services occurs throughout the school year. Full-Time AAP services have two identification cycles:
-
Fall identification: Students in grades 3-7 who have enrolled in FCPS since January may be referred by October 15, 2026.
-
Spring identification: Any FCPS student in Grades 2-7 may be referred by December 15, 2026.
FCPS uses ability testing as one consideration in the holistic identification process for AAP services.
- All students in Grade 2 take the Naglieri General Ability Tests (NGAT).
- Students in Grades 3-6 who do not have a multi-domain ability test score take the NGAT.
- Students in Grades 3-6 may retake an ability test one time. Families may request the ability test retake by contacting Nausheen Haider, School Testing Coordinator, at NFHaider@fcps.edu by September 30.
Families are invited to attend two AAP information meetings, led by Naomi Egerton Baker, our Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART):
-
AAP Continuum of Services: Wednesday, September 30th at 5:30 PM in the Library. Families will learn about the continuum of advanced academic services available to FCPS students.
-
Full-Time AAP Identification: October 22nd at 9:00 am in the cafeteria. Families will learn about the referral and identification processes for Full-Time AAP services.
For more information, please contact Naomi Egerton Baker, AART, at nhegertonbak@fcps.edu or visit the FCPS Advanced Academic Programs website.
Twice Exceptional Programming
We’re excited to share information about Twice-Exceptional (2e) Programming available within our school system. Twice-exceptional students demonstrate advanced abilities while also experiencing learning, attention, or other challenges that may require additional support.
Please visit FCPS 2e webpage to learn more about 2e programming, available resources, and opportunities to support the unique strengths and needs of twice-exceptional learners.
If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact Naomi Baker at nhegertonbak@fcps.edu or Emily Wood at etwood@fcps.edu
Review and Sign the SR&R by September 30
The FCPS Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) booklet explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. This year’s SR&R includes new Universal Grade Matrices, which are at-a-glance charts that make it easier for families to see behavior expectations and school responses for grades K-3, 4-8, and 9-12.
We ask that families please review the SR&R and discuss these expectations with your child. Be sure to sign the SR&R acknowledgement form by Wednesday, September 30, either by logging into SIS ParentVUE or signing and returning the Signature Sheet to your child’s school.
Learn more by watching a short video about the SR&R (available in English and Spanish) or visiting the SR&R webpage.
Importance of Strong Attendance Habits
September is Attendance Awareness Month. Some of the ways families can help their children create healthy routines and a habit of getting to school on time every day include:
- Set a regular bedtime and morning routine. (Need help? Download this checklist in English or Spanish.)
- Laying out clothes and packing backpacks the night before.
- Talking to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make your child feel comfortable and excited about learning, if they seem anxious about going to school.
- Developing back-up plans for getting to school if something comes up. Call on a family member, a neighbor, or another parent.
- Avoiding medical appointments or extended trips when school is in session.
If you or your family need any kind of support, please reach out to your school’s front office. We are here for you! Visit FCPS’ Attendance webpage for tips and strategies.
Volunteer FCPS
Volunteer FCPS allows individuals to search and register for volunteer opportunities. It helps ensure a safe, consistent, and welcoming environment here at Deer Park. All volunteers must:
- Create a profile in Volunteer FCPS.
- Register for opportunities through Volunteer FCPS.
- Sign in and out of schools using the visitor kiosk.
- Signing up as a Volunteer does not guarantee a spot as a chaperone on field trips.
At the Volunteer FCPS site, you can complete a colunteer orientation. Visit the FCPS Frequently Asked Questions for more information.
Find out more about volunteering here.
Superintendent Community Conversations
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.
PTA News
Welcome to a brand-new school year! As your Parent Teacher Association, we are thrilled to partner with you to make this year engaging, supportive, and memorable for all our students.
Our PTA family needs your help to make this school year unforgettable for our kids! We are currently looking for enthusiastic volunteers to step into three impactful yet vacant positions:
-
Spirit Night Coordinator (organizing fun community dining events) and
-
Ice Skating Coordinator (planning our popular winter ice skating night).
Additionally, we are assembling the committee for the Cub Run-a-thon, our biggest and most exciting fundraiser. Whether you have a few hours to spare or want to take a lead role, joining the team is a fantastic way to connect with other parents, support our teachers, and make a direct difference in our students' school experience. Reach out to us today to get involved—we can't wait to work together!
Strong communities are built together, so please invite and remind other families to join the PTA—every new member brings fresh ideas, extra support, and a stronger voice for our children. We look forward to working alongside you!
Warmly,
Your Cub Run Elementary PTA
Reminders
Lunch Family Visitor Expectations
We love welcoming families to join their children for lunch! We will begin welcoming families on Monday, September 14. To help ensure that lunchtime remains a safe, positive, and enjoyable experience for all students, we are introducing a new procedure for family lunch visitors.
Beginning this school year, families visiting for lunch will be asked to review our Lunch Family Visitor Expectations when signing in and follow these expectations throughout their visit. Having shared expectations helps us protect student safety and privacy, support our cafeteria routines, and create a welcoming environment for everyone.
When visiting for lunch, we ask families to:
-
Follow cafeteria expectations and directions provided by school staff.
-
Remain with your child for the duration of your visit.
-
Do not share outside food or drinks with other students. Outside food is discouraged but, if brought, may only be consumed by your child. This helps protect students from known or unknown food allergies.
-
Model our school-wide behavior expectations by using appropriate language and demonstrating respectful behavior.
-
Follow visitor safety procedures by signing in at the front office, wearing your visitor badge, and signing out before leaving.
-
Allow your child to return to class independently at the end of lunch. Students should follow their normal cafeteria dismissal procedures.
-
Refrain from taking photos or videos that include other students in order to respect student privacy.
-
Keep lunchtime focused on enjoying time with your child. Conversations about academic progress, concerns, or other school matters should be scheduled with your child's teacher or appropriate staff member outside of lunchtime.
We value having our families as part of our school community and appreciate your partnership in following these expectations consistently. Together, we can make lunchtime a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable experience for all of our Cubbies!
Early Release Wednesdays for the 2026-27 School Year
FCPS will continue with limited early release Wednesdays for elementary schools during the 2026-27 school year. The number of days has been reduced from eight to four.
Early release Wednesdays provide elementary teachers with a dedicated block of time to prepare lessons, participate in professional development and training, and collaborate with their peers. A well-supported and continuously improving teaching staff leads to better educational outcomes for students.
Please view the dates for Cub Run's early release Wednesdays below:
- October 21
- December 2
- February 10
- May 5
Visit the FCPS website for more information about early release Wednesdays.
Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights
FCPS wants all parents and caregivers to understand its policies regarding surveys, records, curriculum, privacy, and related rights.
On the Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms webpage, explanations are provided of the rights listed above as well as forms that may be used to exercise opt-out choices.
View the 2026-27 Opt-Out Booklet.
Schoology
Catch Up on Your Child’s Classwork in Schoology
Teachers use Schoology to post their classroom materials online; to provide a secure forum for students to discuss their ideas and collaborate on projects; and to assign and collect homework electronically. It helps students stay organized, and it keeps the class connected.
A Schoology Parent Account gives you access to:
- Your child’s classes.
- Your child’s upcoming assignments.
- School, class, and group announcements.
To access Schoology, parents will need to have an active SIS/ParentVUE account. Get more information on how to login and use Schoology.
SEL Screener
The Spring Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students in grades 3 through 12 in October. Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. This gives students a way to share how well their school community makes them feel valued, included, and supported.
After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families without a ParentVUE account. For more information, including SEL Screener questions and opt-out information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.
Help Your Child Navigate the Lunch Line
Check out some tips to help your child get through the lunch line quickly and have more time to eat:
- Teach your child their student ID number to receive meals at school.
- Sign up for and add money to MySchoolBucks to purchase meals at school.
-
Apply for free and reduced-price meals. Students who were approved for free and reduced-price meals last year are eligible for the first 30 days of school this year (or until a new application is processed). Families should submit a new application as soon as possible, so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost.
If your child has any food allergies, learn how to submit accommodations for dietary restrictions and allergens.
Access menus for breakfast, lunch, and other school meals, as well as allergen and nutrition information.
Be Informed, Stay Involved!
|
