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2026-27 FCPS School Calendar

• September 11:Commemoration/Patriot Day
• September 11:Rosh Hashanah, Sundown
• September 15 - October 15: Hispanic Heritage Month
• September 17: Back to School Night,  6:00–8:00p.m.
• September 17: Constitution Day
• September 18: Principal Coffee & Chat, 8:15a.m–9:00a.m.
• September 18: Movie Night, 6:00p.m–8:00p.m.
• September 21: No School | Yom Kippur
• September 30: 3-Hour Early Release Wednesday, Gr K-6, Dismissal 1:00p.m. 

Good evening, Herndon Elementary Families,

It has been another meaningful week at Herndon Elementary. Our students are continuing to build relationships, strengthen classroom routines, and engage in learning that helps them grow as readers, thinkers, leaders, and members of our school community.

This week, our staff participated in a Region 1 instructional learning walk focused on reading instruction in second- and third-grade classrooms. These visits allowed teachers, administrators, coaches, and regional leaders to notice bright spots, share effective practices, and identify next steps to strengthen student talk, academic language, comprehension, and student engagement.

We are also pleased to share our finalized tweaks to our administrative team’s grade-level assignments for the 2026–27 school year:

• Pre-K: Dr. Monika Vereb
• Kindergarten: Kelly Cosgrove
• First Grade: Kelly Cosgrove
• Second Grade: Dr. Lawrence Randolph
• Third Grade: Dr. Lawrence Randolph
• Fourth Grade: Sudie Vasquez
• Fifth Grade: Kelly Cosgrove
• Sixth Grade: Sudie Vasquez

Our administrators will partner closely with teachers, students, and families throughout the year to support strong communication, student success, and a positive school experience.

We were thrilled by the large turnout at our first general PTA meeting last night. Thank you to the families who joined us, shared ideas, and helped strengthen the partnership between our school and community. I look forward to seeing even more Bees and family members next Friday, September 18, for our PTA Movie Night featuring Zootopia 2 from 6:00–8:00 p.m. The event will take place on the back field, with the cafeteria available as an indoor location in the event of rain. Families are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets. Popcorn and popsicles will be provided, and drinks will be available for $1.

Next Thursday, September 17, we look forward to welcoming families to Back-to-School Night from 6:00–8:00 p.m. Families will have opportunities to learn more about classroom experiences, connect with teachers, and hear important information about the year ahead. We will also offer pre-session conversations on timely topics for families starting at 5:15 PM.

For families who are unable to attend in person, Back-to-School Night will be livestreamed, and recordings will be posted in Schoology afterward. Transportation will also be available for families who need it. Please review the Back-to-School Night information included in this edition of News You Choose for the bus schedule and additional details.

Thank you to our families for your continued partnership and support. I am also grateful for our dedicated staff, who create welcoming, engaging learning experiences for our Bees each day. Together, we are building a school community grounded in belonging, growth, leadership, and joy.

With gratitude,

Dr. Monika Vereb

Principal Herndon Elementary School

A collage of photos showing Herndon Elementary students, teachers, and families participating in school club presentations, classroom lessons, and hands-on learning activities. The photos include a cafeteria meeting, students working in small groups, and teachers presenting lessons in classrooms.

HES Message

Celebrating Birthdays at School 🎉

We love making our students feel special on their big day! To help ensure kids have uninterrupted time to finish their meals and catch up with friends in the cafeteria, we are shifting birthday treats and celebrations to outdoor recess time.

If you are hoping to celebrate your child's birthday at school, here is how you can easily coordinate with us:

• Reach out early: Send a quick note to your child’s teacher ahead of time using email or Talking Points.
• Check in on details: Your teacher will share the exact recess time and provide any helpful details regarding classroom allergy guidelines.

Thank you so much for partnering with us to keep our school day fun, balanced, and special for every child!

Welcoming families to Herndon Elementary’s Back to School Night on September 17. The flyer invites families to meet their child’s teacher and features school supplies, bees, books, a globe, and a backpack.

New This Year: Pre-Sessions, Resource Alley, and Family Sessions

Pre-Sessions Begin at 5:15 p.m.

Families may attend one of the following pre-sessions:

• Intervention supports
• Special education services
• Multilingual learner services
• Advanced Academic Program (AAP) information

Resource Alley

Resource Alley will feature information tables where families can meet school staff and community partners, ask questions, and learn about programs, services, and supports available to students and families.

Representatives will include:

• Specialists
• Instructional coaches
• Mental health team
• PTA
• Technology and ParentVUE support
• Advanced Academic Program (AAP)

Grade-Level Team Sessions

Grade-level teachers will present together and share information about grade-level learning, classroom routines, and ways families can support learning at home.

Session 1 and Session 2 will follow the same format. Families with one child at Herndon Elementary may attend either session. Families with children in multiple grade levels may attend Session 1 for one child and Session 2 for another.

All sessions will be recorded and posted in Schoology after Back-to-School Night so families can view any session they are unable to attend.

🐝 Parents & Guardians:

Ride the bus to Herndon Elementary School for Back to School Night and take the bus home after the event.

✨ Enjoy the evening with us—let the bus do the driving! ✨

🚌 BUS SERVICE TO SCHOOL

🐝🚌 BUS LEAVING SCHOOL

🐝 Bee Ready! Bee On Time! Please arrive at your bus stop a few minutes early.

💛 We can't wait to see you at Back to School Night! 🐝

Scoliosis Fact Sheet

Information on scoliosis and methods for early detection.

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine. A spine affected by
scoliosis has a sideways curve, making it appear more like an "S" or a "C" than a straight line. Untreated scoliosis can lead to limited motion, back pain, deformity, and in extreme cases, impaired function of the heart and lungs. Early detection and treatment may prevent scoliosis from progressing.

When should my child be screened for scoliosis?

Scoliosis most commonly occurs during the growing years, between age 10 and the time an adolescent is fully grown. Screenings should begin in early adolescence. Pediatricians should check for early signs during a routine physical exam.

What causes scoliosis?

The cause of scoliosis is unknown. Scoliosis is more common in females than males.

How is scoliosis treated?

In many cases, the curve is mild and does not require treatment. In some cases, treatment may involve bracing. Severe curves may require spinal surgery. The need for treatment is best determined by a trained medical professional.

What are the signs of scoliosis? One shoulder may be higher than the other. One shoulder blade may be higher or more prominent than the other. One hip appears higher or more prominent than the other. Unevenness of the waist. The spine curves sideways. The head is not centered over the pelvis. If you have any concern that your child may have scoliosis, make sure that your child is screened by a health care provider. For additional resources and information, please contact the school Public Health Nurse (PHN). For more information visit the Scoliosis Research Society website.

HES PTA Message

PTA wants you to "BEE" in the know

The first PTA event of the year is ready to pop🍿off! An outdoor Movie Night will take place on Friday, September 18 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM in the field behind the school (cafeteria if it is raining). Enjoy a movie with your friends and family! The kids have spoken and the movie of choice will be Zootopia 2. Drinks will be available for $1/each (note there will be a $5 minimum for credit card purchase).

Volunteers are still needed - HES PTA: Movie Night Volunteers.

Visit our website at herndonespta.givebacks.com to learn more, join the PTA, or make a donation—every contribution makes a difference!

Be sure to follow us on Facebook (Herndon Elementary School PTA) and Instagram (@herndonesPTA) for the latest updates.

September 11 National Day of Service

With the upcoming 25th anniversary of September 11, 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. Middle and high school students can learn more about service learning by logging into their Naviance account to access x2VOL. 

Día Nacional de Conmemoración del 11 de SeptiembreConmemorando el 25to aniversario de los atentados del 11 de septiembre, FCPS reconoce las vidas que se perdieron, el heroísmo de nuestros cuerpos de seguridad y rescate, y la voluntad de resistir de nuestro país. El Día Nacional de Servicio y Conmemoración de los atentados del 11 de Septiembre, también llamado Día del Patriota, es una oportunidad para reflexionar y actuar serviendo a otros que lo necesiten mientras honramos a quienes resultaron heridos o murieron en estos ataques terroristas.

Animamos a todos los estudiantes de FCPS a participar en el aprendizaje para el servicio ya que éste promueve los atributos que tiene nuestro  Perfil de un Graduado (POG) y las habilidades necesarias para el aprendizaje social y emocional (SEL). Los estudiantes de las escuelas intermedia y secundaria pueden aprender más sobre el aprendizaje para el servicio entrando a su cuenta Naviance para acceder a x2VOL. 

Superintendent Community Conversations

Join us for a series of Community Conversations that will be held across the school division. Share your thoughts with Dr. Reid and ask her questions. Click on the date to register for any of the following events:

• Wednesday, September 16, at 6:45 p.m., at McNair Elementary School

Registration is not required, but it helps with planning. 

Conversaciones Comunitarias Directamente con la Dra. ReidAcompáñenos en una serie de Conversaciones Comunitarias que se llevarán a cabo en diferentes lugares de la división escolar. Estas reuniones están abiertas a todos, incluyendo familias, estudiantes, y miembros de la comunidad. Puede asistir al evento que le resulte más conveniente, aunque no se lleve a cabo en su escuela o comunidad. Esta es una oportunidad para compartir sus opiniones, conversar directamente con la Dra. Reid y hacerle preguntas sobre temas importantes para nuestra comunidad de FCPS. 

• Miércoles 16 de septiembre, a las 6:45 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria McNair

No es necesario inscribirse, pero hacerlo nos ayuda con la planificación. 

Reporting Discrimination or Harassment

FCPS is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for people of all races, national origins, and ethnicities. Individuals experiencing harassment or discrimination should report the incident as soon as possible. 

Cómo reportar discriminación o acoso

FCPS está comprometido a brindar un entorno seguro, acogedor e inclusivo para personas de todas las razas, orígenes nacionales y etnias. Las personas que sean víctimas de acoso o discriminación deben reportar el incidente lo antes posible.

SR&R

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.

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.

Cellphones and Personal Devices

Students may only use a personal device if it is required as part of a necessary accommodation in the students’ Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan. A principal or the principal’s designee may approve a limited, course-specific exception for students enrolled in a specialized class when the curriculum requires a technology tool or software that isn’t available on a standard FCPS-issued device. Learn more about the student device requirement. 

 Revise y firme el SR&R a más tardar el 30 de septiembre

El folleto de Derechos y Responsabilidades de los Estudiantes de FCPS (SR&R) explica las expectativas de comportamiento de los y las estudiantes y cómo deben responder los adultos para fortalecer la seguridad escolar y crear un entorno justo, equitativo y de apoyo. Este año, el SR&R incluye nuevas Matrices Universales por Grado, tablas de consulta rápida que facilitan a las familias conocer las expectativas de comportamiento y las respuestas de la escuela para los grados K-3, 4-8 y 9-12.

Familias: por favor, revisen el SR&R y conversen con sus estudiantes sobre las expectativas. Recuerden firmar el formulario de confirmación a más tardar el miércoles, 30 de septiembre. Pueden hacerlo iniciando sesión en SIS ParentVUE o firmando y entregando el documento firmado en la escuela de su estudiante.

Para obtener más información, vea un breve video sobre el SR&R o visite la página web del SR&R.

Teléfonos celulares y dispositivos personales Los estudiantes solo pueden usar un dispositivo personal si lo necesitan como parte de una adaptación incluida en su Programa Educativo Individualizado (IEP) o Plan de la Sección 504. El director o la persona designada por el director puede aprobar una excepción limitada para una clase especializada si el curso requiere una herramienta tecnológica o un programa que no está disponible en un dispositivo estándar proporcionado por FCPS. Obtenga más información sobre los requisitos para los dispositivos de los estudiantes. 

Strategic Plan

Schools Build Belonging so Students Can Thrive

What does belonging look like in our school? At Herndon Elementary School, we are creating inclusive, supportive environments where every student feels known, valued, and connected — the second goal of the Strategic Plan. From mentoring to cross-grade collaboration, when students feel safe and supported, they can truly thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. See how Goal 2 is being put into practice at FCPS. 

Escuelas que crean comunidad para que cada estudiante pueda prosperar

¿Cómo se vive el sentido de comunidad en nuestra escuela? En Herndon Elementary School, estamos creando espacios inclusivos y de apoyo donde cada estudiante se sienta reconocido, valorado y conectado. Este es el segundo objetivo del Plan Estratégico. Desde programas de mentoría hasta la colaboración entre estudiantes de diferentes grados, cuando los estudiantes se sienten seguros y apoyados pueden realmente prosperar académica, social y emocionalmente. Conozca cómo FCPS está poniendo en práctica la Meta 2.

Attendance

Importance of Strong Attendance Habits

September is Attendance Awareness Month. Some of the ways parents can help their children create healthy routines and a habit of getting to school on time every day include:

• Setting 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 our front office. We are here for you! Visit FCPS’ Attendance webpage for tips and strategies.

La importancia de crear buenos hábitos de asistencia

Septiembre es el Mes de Concientización sobre la Asistencia Escolar. Las familias pueden ayudar a sus estudiantes a crear rutinas saludables y el hábito de llegar puntualmente a las escuela todos los días de diferentes maneras:

• Establecer una hora regular para dormir y una rutina para las mañanas. (¿Necesita ayuda? Descargue esta guía disponible en inglés y en español.)
• Deje preparada la ropa y las mochilas desde la noche anterior.
• Tenga conversaciones con maestros, consejeros escolares u otras familias para encontrar maneras de ayudar a su estudiante a sentirse más cómodo y entusiasmado por aprender en caso de que presente ansiedad por asistir a la escuela.
• Tenga un plan alternativo para llegar a la escuela si surge algún imprevisto. Puede pedir ayuda a un familiar, vecino o alguien de su confianza.
• Siempre que sea posible, evite programar citas médicas o viajes prolongados durante los días de clases.

Si usted o su familia necesitan algún tipo de apoyo, comuníquese con nuestra oficina principal. ¡Estamos aquí para ustedes! Visite la página web de asistencia de FCPS para encontrar consejos y estrategias que ayuden a fomentar el hábito de asistencia.

Student ID/Bus Tracking

Stay in the Know With Here Comes the Bus

Even though FCPS has launched a new bus navigation system, some aspects like the new FCPS My Ride mobile app are still in development. Families should still use the Here Comes the Bus mobile app to track the location of their child’s bus. This app is still compatible with the new system. 

FCPS will notify families and schools when the new app is ready to download and use. In the meantime, everyone should reinforce with students that they need to tap on and off the bus with their student ID cards.

Have you already downloaded the new app? That’s okay! The new app is in the final stage of testing, so some features are not yet fully functional. At this time, you should refer to Here Comes the Bus for the most accurate information.

Manténgase informado con “Here Comes the Bus” (Aquí viene el Autobús)Aunque FCPS ha implementado un nuevo sistema de navegación para los autobuses escolares, algunas funciones, como la nueva aplicación móvil FCPS MyRide, todavía están en desarrollo. Por ahora, las familias deben continuar utilizando la aplicación “Here Comes the Bus” (Aquí viene el Autobús) para consultar la ubicación del autobús escolar de su estudiante. Esta aplicación móvil continúa siendo compatible con el nuevo sistema.

FCPS notificará a las familias y a las escuelas cuando la nueva aplicación esté lista para descargar y utilizar. Mientras tanto, es importante recordar a los estudiantes que deben pasar su credencial de identificación estudiantil por el lector al subir y bajar del autobús.

¿Ya descargó la nueva aplicación? ¡No se preocupe! La aplicación se encuentra en la etapa final de pruebas, por lo que algunas funciones todavía no están completamente disponibles. Por ahora, siga consultando “Here comes the bus” para obtener la información más precisa.

FCPS Mobile App

What’s for Lunch? Check the FCPS App! 🍕

The FCPS mobile app makes it easy to view daily breakfast and lunch menus for any school in FCPS — no login required. Find out more about the app’s features. Download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. 

 ¿Qué hay de comer hoy? ¡Consulte la aplicación de FCPS! 🍕

La aplicación móvil de FCPS permite consultar fácilmente los menús diarios de desayuno y almuerzo de cualquier escuela de FCPS, sin necesidad de iniciar sesión. Conozca más funciones de la aplicación. Puede descargarse desde la Apple App Store o Google Play Store.

Flu Vaccine

The Importance of the Flu Vaccine

As we look ahead to the upcoming school year, the health and well-being of our students continues to be one of our priorities. Staying up to date with your child's flu vaccination helps:

• Reduce School Absences: Keeping students healthy means more time spent learning and engaging with peers.
• Protect the Community: Vaccination helps shield vulnerable family members and neighbors from seasonal illness.
• Support Overall Wellness: Routine flu shots are a key component of a proactive student health plan.

Upcoming Flu Shot Events

FCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will provide flu shots for all FCPS students, ages 18 and under, at no out-of-pocket cost. Multiple events will take place at designated FCPS locations. Additional dates will be made available throughout the school year. Parents or guardians may view upcoming events and schedule an appointment for their student. Participation is voluntary.

La importancia de la vacuna contra la influenza

Al comenzar el año escolar, la salud y el bienestar de nuestros estudiantes continúan siendo una de nuestras prioridades. Tener las vacunas de su estudiante al día le ayuda a:

• Reducir las ausencias escolares: Mantener a los estudiantes saludables significa más tiempo para aprender y compartir con sus compañeros.
• Proteger a nuestra comunidad: La vacunación también ayuda a proteger a familiares, vecinos y otras personas vulnerables durante la temporada de influenza.
• Promover el bienestar general: La vacunación anual contra la influenza es una parte muy importante del cuidado preventivo de la salud de los estudiantes.

Próximos eventos de vacunación contra la influenza

FCPS. en colaboración con Inspire Health Alliance, ofrecerá vacunas contra la influenza a todos los estudiantes de FCPS de 18 años o menos, sin costo para las familias. Se realizarán varios eventos en diferentes instalaciones de FCPS y se agregarán nuevas fechas a lo largo del año escolar. Los padres y tutores pueden consultar los próximos eventos y programar una cita para su estudiante.

La participación es voluntaria. 

Special Education Family Conference

Special Education Family Conference: Connected Communities, Thriving Students 

Register now for the annual Special Education Family Conference: Connected Communities, Thriving Students. The free conference will take place on Saturday, November 14, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hayfield Secondary School. 

Hosted by FCPS in collaboration with community partners, the conference highlights the power of partnerships in supporting student success. Families, educators, and community members are invited to connect, learn, and explore available special education services, supports, and resources. 

The conference will feature an inspiring opening session, engaging breakout sessions, an exhibitor hall with local resources, and lunch for all participants.

Register for the conference and visit the Special Education Family Conference webpage for more information. Email SpecialEdFamilyConf@fcps.edu with any questions.

Conferencia de Educación Especial para Familias: Comunidades conectadas, estudiantes que prosperan

Inscríbase ahora para la Conferencia Anual de Educación Especial para Familias: Comunidades conectadas, estudiantes que prosperan. Este evento gratuito se llevará a cabo el sábado 14 de noviembre de 8:30 a.m. a 3 p.m., en la Escuela Secundaria Hayfield.

Organizada por FCPS en colaboración con socios comunitarios, la conferencia destaca el poder de las alianzas para apoyar el éxito de nuestros estudiantes. Familias, educadores y miembros de la comunidad están invitados a conectarse, aprender y conocer los servicios, apoyos y recursos disponibles de educación especial.

La conferencia contará con una inspiradora, sesiones de apertura, sesiones en grupos pequeños, un área de exhibidores con recursos locales y almuerzo para todos los participantes.

Inscríbanse para la conferencia y visiten la página web de la Conferencia de Educación Especial para Familias para obtener más información. Si tiene alguna duda, escriba a SpecialEdFamilyConf@fcps.edu.

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

FCPS NewsIn case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:

• • Review and Sign the SR&R
  • Your Child Belongs at School
  • What’s for Lunch? Check the FCPS App

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Novedades de FCPSEn caso de que no haya visto el boletín Esta Semana en FCPS, la división escolar compartió novedades sobre los siguientes temas:

• Todo lo que puede hacer en SIS ParentVUE
• Formularios de autorización para recursos escolares
• Cómo seguir a varias escuelas en la aplicación móvil.

Lea Esta Semana  en FCPS para que conozca más acerca de estos temas. Si aún no recibe este boletín semanal, por favor, suscríbase hoy.

Community Flyers

Traveling Players: 1 of 25 "Summer Schools in the Arts" (National Endowment for the Arts). 

Acting Classes & Plays: Grades 1-12 (Acting & Improv, Slapstick Comedies, Tech Crew, Advanced Acting).

Take a FREE class! Open Houses: September 15 and 19.

Small by Design; Big on Impact.

travelingplayers.org (703)987-1718

Classes, Day Camps, & Plays - Tysons, Virginia

Sleepaway Camps & Conservatories - Saluda, Virginia

These materials are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or this school.

Stay Connected With Us!

Follow Herndon Elementary School and our PTA on Instagram for school highlights, important updates, upcoming events, and ways to stay involved in our community.

📱Herndon Elementary: @herndonelementaryschool
📱Herndon Elementary PTA: @herndones_pta

We look forward to connecting with you!

Stay Connected: Encouraging community stakeholders to follow Herndon ES on social media

Renovation Information

Follow the Herndon Elementary renovation progress which is located on the FCPS website by clicking here.

Administration E-mail:

• Principal, Dr. Monika Vereb mgvereb1@fcps.edu 
• Assistant Principal, Dr. Lawrence Randolph lwrandolph@fcps.edu
• Assistant Principal, Kelly Cosgrove kmcosgrove@fcps.edu
• Assistant Principal, Sudie Vasquez scvasquez@fcps.edu

Do you know a Herndon Elementary staff member who goes above and beyond or turns the ordinary into something extraordinary? If so, click here to nominate them for FCPS Cares and help us share their story.

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630 Dranesville Rd. Herndon, VA 20170  | Main Office: 703-326-3100
Attendance: 703-326-3131 | Web | Twitter | Facebook