Principal Message
Dear Lancer Families,
As we close out another strong week, I want to share a few important reminders with our community. We were contacted by McLean High School administrators following last week’s football game regarding the behavior of some Longfellow students in attendance. Unfortunately, some behaviors did not meet the expectations we have for our Lancers. Middle school students attending McLean High School sporting events need active parent/guardian supervision throughout the events. We want our students to enjoy these opportunities and support our community, but they must represent Longfellow and the greater McLean community with respect and good judgment. If concerns continue, students exhibiting inappropriate behaviors may be prevented from attending future games. We appreciate families reinforcing these expectations before and during the sporting events.
We also know that our community is processing heartbreaking news involving student safety and bicycles. Our thoughts are with everyone impacted. Moments like these are an important reminder for all of us to reinforce safe practices with our children, particularly when riding bicycles, walking, or traveling near roadways. Please take some time as a family to talk about bicycle and pedestrian safety, including wearing a properly fitted helmet, remaining alert to surroundings, and following traffic rules. The safety and well-being of our students remain our highest priority.
There are many positive opportunities ahead for our Lancers. Our after-school program begins today, and we are excited for students to take advantage of the activities, academic support, and opportunities to connect with peers and staff. School pictures are at the end of September, and our 7th-grade students will soon be participating in their MWEE field trip to Burke Lake Park, providing an opportunity to take their science learning beyond the classroom through meaningful, hands-on experiences. Thank you, as always, for your partnership and continued support of our students and school community. I hope you and your family have a wonderful week.
Chris Butzer
Principal, Longfellow MS
UPCOMING EVENTS
September
14 After School Starts
22-26 MWEE Field Trip for 7th Graders
23 TJHSST Information Session 2:45pm
24-25 Fall Pictures through PE Class
National Hispanic Heritage Month
From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month.
September 26 through October 4, 2026-Blue Star Welcome Week
Our community and FCPS are proud to participate in Blue Star Welcome Week, a special event dedicated to welcoming military-connected families to the area. From September 26 through October 4, 2026, various events and activities will be held throughout FCPS schools and the region to show support and appreciation for military-connected families.
Blue Star Welcome Week is an annual event hosted by Blue Star Families, a non-profit organization that empowers military-connected families and strives to help them integrate into civilian communities. This week-long celebration offers newcomers the opportunity to connect with local resources, meet other military-connected families, and engage with the community. Please visit the National Capital Region Chapter to learn more about the events Blue Star Families and their partners will be hosting.
Longfellow wishes a warm welcome to our military-connected families! We are honored to have you as part of our community, and we thank you for your service.
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DETAILS ON UPCOMING EVENTS
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) Information Session – September 23rd @ 2:45
On Wednesday 9/23/26 at 2:45 pm, Longfellow will hold a Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) Admissions Presentation for parents and students in the Lecture Hall. TJHSST is a selective secondary high school, and students must submit an application, complete the admissions exam, and be offered a seat to attend. To learn more about the TJHSST admissions process, visit TJHSST Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology Admissions | Fairfax County Public Schools (fcps.edu). Please RSVP for the Longfellow session by completing this Google Form.
School Picture Day is Coming Soon!
📅 Date: Thursday September 24th & Friday September 25th 2026
📸 Pictures Available: Approximately two weeks after photo day
🛒 Pre-order Online: https://shop.imagequix.com/g1001416974
📧 Questions about Ordering? Email us at underclass@vosphoto.com
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
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, 6:45 p.m., at McNair Elementary School
• Monday, September 28, at 6:30 p.m., at Riverside Elementary School
• Monday, October 19, at 6:30 p.m., at Spring Hill Elementary School
• Monday, October 26, at 6:30 p.m., at Beech Tree Elementary School
• Thursday, October 29, at 6:30 p.m., at North Springfield Elementary School
• Friday, November 13, at 6:30 p.m., at Powell Elementary School
Registration is not required, but it helps with planning.
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.
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.
Schools Build Belonging so Students Can Thrive
What does belonging look like in our school? At Longfellow, 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.
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.
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 be taking 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.
E-Bike Classes: Know the Difference
Understanding Virginia’s E-Bike Classifications & Helmet Requirements
Class 1: Pedal-Assist Only
Key Characteristics
· Motor power: Maximum 750W
· Motor assists only while pedaling
· No throttle
· Maximum assisted speed: 20 MPH
· Motor stops assisting at 20 MPH
Class 2: Throttle and Pedal-Assist
Key Characteristics
· Motor power: Maximum 750W
· May be operated by throttle and/or pedal-assist
· Maximum assisted speed: 20 MPH
· Motor stops assisting at 20MPH
W&OD Trail Access
· Both Class 1 & Class 2 are allowed on W&OD Trail
Helmet Requirements
For both Class 1 & Class 2 helmets are required for riders under 14 years old (Town of Vienna Ordinance)
Notes for both Class 1 & Class 2
· Treated as a bicycle under Virginia law
· Subject to Virginia traffic laws while on a highway
Both Class 1 & Class 2 are Street Legal
Class 3: Throttle and/or Pedal-Assist
Key Characteristics
· Motor power: Maximum 750W
· May be operated by throttle and/or pedal-assist
· Maximum assisted speed: 28 MPH
· Motor stops assisting at 28 MPH
W&OD Trail Access
· NOT allowed on the W&OD Trail
Helmet Requirements
· Helmet required for all riders and passengers (Virginia State Code)
Notes
· Treated as a bicycle under Virginia law
· Subject to Virginia traffic laws while on a highway
Street Legal
Not an E-Bike: Off-Road Vehicle
Key Characteristics
· Often exceeds 750 watts
· May exceed Class 1, 2, or 3 limits
· Often designed primarily for off-road use
· May function more like a motorcycle
W&OD Trail Access
· NOT allowed on the W&OD Trail
NOT PERMITTED ON A VIRGINIA HIGHWAY
NOT street legal as an E-Bike
AFTER SCHOOL CORNER
🎉 After-School Program Starts TODAY — September 14!
We are excited to officially kick off the Longfellow MS After-School Program today, Monday, September 14, 2026!
Students and families can find the updated First Quarter schedule, club descriptions, club-specific announcements, registration/selection information, and other important After-School Program updates on the Longfellow MS After-School Program webpage.
📲 Daily Attendance Is Required
Students must sign in for their after-school activity EVERY DAY they participate. This is important for student safety and accurate attendance.
For example, if your student plans to attend Battle of the Books next Monday, they must mark their attendance that day before participating.
Students should access the attendance form through:
Schoology → After School Activities → Attendance Form
Students have already received information during class about how to access and complete their daily after-school attendance.
⚠️ Important Reminder for Parents/Guardians
Parents do NOT sign students up for daily after-school activities.
Students are responsible for selecting the activity they are attending and submitting their own daily attendance through Schoology.
Some competitive, athletic, limited-enrollment, tryout, lottery, or yearlong clubs have additional requirements. Please review the After-School Program webpage and Schoology for club-specific information.
🚌 IMPORTANT: After-School Late Bus Transportation
Late buses for the Longfellow MS After-School Program run Monday through Thursday ONLY.
• 🗓️ Late Bus Days: Monday–Thursday
• ⏰ Estimated Departure: Late buses are expected to depart Longfellow between approximately 4:45–5:00 p.m., after Second Block activities conclude.
• 🚫 There are no after-school late buses on Fridays.
⚠️ Your Student’s Late Bus May Be Different!
A student’s late bus assignment and bus stop will likely be different from their regular school-day bus assignment and stop.
Parents/guardians should review the late-bus transportation information with their student in ParentVUE:
ParentVUE → Student Information → Additional Transportation
Please confirm your student’s:
• 🚌 Late bus number
• 📍 Late bus stop
Students should know their correct late bus number and stop before staying after school.
Please do not assume that your student’s regular bus number or regular bus stop is the same for after-school transportation.
🚗🚶 Kiss & Ride, Walkers & First Block Pick-Up
Families have flexibility when students are Kiss & Ride or walkers after participating in after-school activities.
• 🚗 Kiss & Ride Pick-Up: After-school Kiss & Ride pick-up will take place at the usual Kiss & Ride location at Door 4.
• 🚶 Walkers: Students who walk home are free to leave after their scheduled after-school activities.
• ⏰ Leaving After First Block: Kiss & Ride students and walkers may leave after First Block if they do not wish to stay for a Second Block activity.
• 🚌 Late Bus Riders: Students taking a late bus must remain at Longfellow through the end of Second Block and wait for the 4:30 p.m. dismissal.
• ⚠️ There are no late buses after First Block. Late buses are scheduled only following Second Block activities.
➗🌎 Sponsors/Head Coaches Needed — MATHCOUNTS & Model UN
Longfellow MS is still looking for enthusiastic Sponsors/Head Coaches to lead two of our competitive after-school clubs for the 2026–2027 school year:
➗ MATHCOUNTS
🌎 Model United Nations (Model UN)
We are looking for individuals who are excited to mentor students, prepare teams for competitions, and help our Lancers develop confidence, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and competitive skills.
📅 Sponsor/Head Coach Commitment
Sponsors/Head Coaches should be prepared to:
• Commit to one or two days per week
• Lead the club for approximately two hours between 2:30–4:30 p.m.
• Club meetings may take place Monday through Thursday
• Prepare students for approximately 5–7 competitions throughout the school year
• Have weekend availability, as competitions are typically held on weekends
• Chaperone and support students at competitions
🙋 Interested in Leading a Team?
If you are interested in becoming the MATHCOUNTS or Model UN Sponsor/Head Coach, or would like additional information about the opportunity, please contact:
Sofia Mora
After-School Specialist
📧 smora@fcps.edu
Please help us keep these valuable competitive opportunities available for our Longfellow students!
We look forward to a great first day of After School and an exciting year for our Lancers! 💙
Cross Country Registration Information & Meets (MS Fall Sport)
Cross Country Starts on 9/17/26 from 2:30-3:30pm.
Practices: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:30pm to 3:30pm.
Registration for the season:
Complete AND Submit the FCPS MS AthleticsRegistration **Please reference the email sent from Final Forms to complete log in and registration through NEW online digital registration platform.
Complete AND upload the Middle School Athletics Physical Form (PPE)
Into your Final Forms Portal
-Forms expire 14 months after they are signed.
-ALL PPE after July 1, 2025 NEED to be on the NEW FORMS( Final Forms digital registration required )
*Be sure that your form doesn’t expire before your season ends! (Ex: Nov. 7th CC ends, so PPE needs to be dated after Sept.7th 2025)
Meet Dates, Locations, and Times
October 3rd @ Key MS 10am
October 10th @ Herndon MS 730am
October 17th @ Stone MS 730am
October 24th @ Poe MS 10am
Championship November 7th @ Liberty MS
LONGFELLOW PTA
PTA This Week: Lancers After Hours + 126 Members!
Lancers After Hours — Friday, September 18, 5:00–6:30 PM
J. Gilbert’s, 6930 Old Dominion Drive, McLean
Join us for our first Parents Night Out of the year! This is an informal chance for Longfellow parents to meet, grab a drink or bite, and connect outside the school hallway. No agenda, no presentation, no fundraising ask — just come say hello. No RSVP required.
Save the Date: First PTA General Body Meeting
Monday, September 28, 5:30–6:15 PM | Longfellow Lecture Hall + Zoom
All Longfellow families are welcome. We’ll hear from Principal Butzer, get a quick financial and membership update, discuss fall programs and priorities, and share ways to get involved. The meeting will also be recorded for families who can’t attend.
And thank you — we’re up to 126 PTA members!
If you haven’t joined or donated yet, a quick reminder that middle school PTA keeps fundraising simple: no individual classroom fees, no room-parent collections, and no series of fundraising drives planned throughout the year.
1. Join the PTA — $25 per member
2. Make a Support Excellence donation if you can
Our Support Excellence goal is $30,000, which helps fund Lancer Bucks and student incentives, teacher appreciation, and teacher and classroom support throughout the year.
Join, donate, or do both through Givebacks
PARENT INFORMATION
⏳ RSVP Deadline Approaching – Belize Trip Info Meeting
I’m following up on our exciting Belize trip. The informational meeting is just around the corner!
It’s been amazing to see so much excitement about this opportunity. If you haven’t already, please register for our meeting to learn more about this adventure!
👉 Find meeting info and RSVP here: https://rsvp.eftours.com/ckwuerw
We’ll cover:
- How to save $150 with early enrollment.
- What’s included in the trip.
- Safety, payment plans, and scholarships.
Plus so much more! Only families who attend will get first access to enrollment.
I’m looking forward to seeing you there and sharing all the ways this trip can open doors and broaden horizons for your child. Let’s make this dream a reality together!
Special Education Family Conference: Connected Communities, Thriving Students
Hayfield Secondary Schoo 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.
visit the Special Education Family Conference webpage and visit the Special Education Family Conference webpage for more information. Email SpecialEdFamilyConf@fcps.edu with any questions.
Applications Open Monday, October 5, for Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Eighth graders who have an aptitude and passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are encouraged to apply for admission to the Class of 2031 at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST).
The application will be available Monday, October 5, at 4 p.m. Applications must be started by 4 p.m. Wednesday, October 28, with a submission deadline of 4 p.m. Friday, October 30. Visit the TJHSST registration page for more information, including a schedule of upcoming information sessions at middle schools.
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.
Did you already download 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.
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.
Weapons Screening at Football Games
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is taking additional steps this year to help ensure that our athletic events remain safe for students, families, staff, and community members by introducing security screenings of all spectators at our varsity football games.
We will be using the existing weapons screening systems that our students pass through every morning in our schools. In addition, we will be implementing a standardized bag policy to help support a smooth and efficient entry process. Students, family members, and all spectators are reminded that the following items are prohibited:
Backpacks
Purse
Fanny pack
Tote bags
Outside food and beverage
Sporting equipment (balls, bats, sticks, etc.)
Any item prohibited by FCPS policy, or determined by event staff to present safety concerns
Approved bags are limited to:
Clear plastic, vinyl, or pvc bags no larger than 12”6”x12”
Small clutch bag no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”
Medical and diaper bags permitted but subject to inspection
As a reminder, middle-school students and younger, must be accompanied by a responsible adult who remains with the student(s) at the event.
Looking to donate Legos or Board Games?
Our students will be participating in fun enrichment activities on Fridays during Learning Seminar. We are looking for Lego and board game donations. If you have any you would like to donate, please drop them by the main office.
School Supplies Available
Longfellow Middle School has a limited number of school supply kits to share with our families. If your family needs assistance accessing school supplies, please contact our Family Liaison, Josue Escobar at jaescobar@fcps.edu.
Service Hours Opportunity-Lemon Road Elementary
Lemon Road Elementary is looking for soccer players interested in earning service hours. Kindergarten – Second Graders from Lemon Road, Chesterbrook, Kent Gardens, and Churchill Elementary Schools will be playing games on Saturday mornings as a recreational league serving as a fundraiser for the schools. All games will be on the Lemon Road Elementary field between 9 AM – 1 PM on Saturdays in September and October. They are looking for students available most Saturdays interested in running small field games. Fill out this form if you are interested! The first games are Saturday, September 19.
Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc2Yj7oe3kk7Tgp3FrjHBKWOXxDkl7KhPj_pRslQe-UKJN-CQ/viewform?usp=dialog
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