Forestville Focus

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“FORESTVILLE FOCUS” banner with a red cardinal logo between words. Tagline below: “It’s a Great Day to be a Cardinal!”

Calendar Reminders

September 25:  PTA Fall Carnival at 5:30

September 29: Blue Star Welcome Week Military Appreciation Breakfast (8:30 a.m. Cafeteria)

September 29: Shake Shack Donation Day, Reston Town Center - 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

September 30: Early Release Wednesday (Dismissal at 1:00 p.m.)

October 12: No School - Teacher Workday/Indigenous Peoples Day

October 15: Deadline for New to FCPS Full-time AAP Referral

October 16: School Picture Day

October 30: 2-hour early dismissal (Dismissal at 2:00 p.m.)

November 2 & 3: No School - Teacher Workdays

December 15: Deadline for Full-time AAP Referral

Calendar Reminder graphic featuring a red cardinal mascot wearing sunglasses

Image of community mural


Forestville Mural Spotlights Power and Promise of Community

Forestville was overjoyed last week when the students put the finishing touches on the community mural! We would like to thank and recognize the AMAZING work of art teacher, Mrs. Riddell. These murals are an annual tradition and the one this year may be the best one yet. Last spring, Mrs. Riddell began planning and mapping out the more than 700 squares that make up the completed mural. Over the first month of art classes, students have been working on their piece. Students could decorate in any way they chose as their individual contribution to the greater overall community mural! It is absolutely astounding how each individual contribution was perfectly placed to bring the entire project together. 

We would like to thank Mrs. Riddell for showcasing the power of the Forestville community and we hope you will spend time visiting this amazing mural the next time you are visiting school. It is located outside the art room, across from the gym. Our students are proud to see their piece connected to greater Forestville community!


Image of Fall Carnival

PTA Carnival is Coming - Friday, September 25!

Forestville reminds all families that the annual PTA Fall Carnival is scheduled for this Friday, September 25 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. on the fields at Forestville. This is one of the largest community events of the school year and we hope you will make plans to join us. It is a wonderful time, filled with games and activities for students. Please review the most recent PTA communication for all the details and how to purchase tickets. 

As a reminder, carnival tickets are included with PTA Family Memberships at the Contributor level or higher - so be sure to join today!


Image of Blue Star Welcome Week

Forestville Hosts Blue Star Welcome Week Breakfast, 9/29

Forestville is pleased to recognize and celebrate our military-connected families at our Blue Star Breakfast on Tuesday, September 29, at 8:30 a.m. in the cafeteria.

A military-connected family may include a student with a parent, guardian, sibling, or other close family member who is currently serving or has served in the military, including active-duty, reserve, National Guard, veteran, or retired service members. This breakfast is an opportunity for these families to connect with one another, build community, and feel supported by the Forestville community.

Join us for breakfast, conversation, and community building. Bagels, juice, and coffee will be provided. Please RSVP to Shana Schnaue by September 25 and include the number of people attending.

If your family is military-connected and you are not receiving updates about military-connected family events, please contact Mrs. Schnaue at saschnaue@fpcs.edu or Ms. Jacinto at kjacinto@fpcs.edu to be added to our contact list.


Early Release Plans in block text with a red and black clock and the Forestville logo

Early Release Wednesday Dismissal Plans

Please help us prepare for a safe and organized dismissal on our four scheduled 3-hour early release days during the 2026–2027 school year. Families should complete a brief dismissal form that takes approximately 2 minutes for each student, indicating how your child will go home on each early release day.

Our first early release is scheduled for NEXT WEEK, September 30, 2026. Please submit one form per student using the link below. The form will collect your child’s dismissal plan for all four scheduled early release days.

Complete the Early Release Dismissal Form

Thank you for helping us keep dismissal safe, smooth, and organized! Thank you to the influx of families who have responded to email communication from earlier today. No need to repeat.


Image of fall picture day

Save the Date - Picture Day is Friday, October 16

Forestville is excited for a Fall Picture Day this year! We will be taking school pictures on Friday, October 16. Please click this link for pre-order information.


Fall Full-Time AAP Referral Window for Students New to FCPS Closes on October 15 

The Advanced Academic Program (AAP) fall referral window is only for students in Grades 3 to 8 who are new to FCPS since January 1, 2026. Parents and guardians who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time AAP services must submit the Full-Time AAP Referral Form to Sarah Brooker at slbrooker@fcps.edu by Thursday, October 15. Late referrals will not be accepted.

For students who are not new to FCPS, the spring Full-Time AAP identification window is open to students in Grades 2 to 7. Families interested in referring their student for consideration during the spring window must submit a referral by Tuesday, December 15.

Once a referral is received, our school will compile information related to the student. Then, a committee of trained professionals from across the county will review materials to determine eligibility for Full-Time AAP services.

Other Advanced Academic Services 

At the elementary level, all students are screened each spring for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP services. Families may also refer their student for consideration for Subject-Specific or Part-Time AAP at any time during the school year. Eligibility decisions are made at the school level, and families are notified of the decision within 30 school days of the referral. The Full-Time AAP referral deadlines do not apply.

At the middle school level, honors courses are open to all students. 

For more information, please visit the Advanced Academic Programs webpage.


Image of QR Code

Visiting School Soon? Use the new Raptor App for quick and easy sign-in

Forestville is excited to take another step in promoting safe and secure family visitors to school! Parents/Guardians will now have option to sign in via secure QR code. Scan the image above for more information and consider setting up an account before your next school visit. Our visitor management system will continue to operate via Parent/Guardian ID, in case you choose not to use the QR code to sign in. Please don't hesitate to contact our front office at 703-404-6000 with any questions.


Students gather around a teacher holding a large object during a morning meeting.


Morning Meeting is the perfect way to start the day! Ms. Cornman’s first graders built community with a wave greeting, shared their favorite seasons, responded to a morning message, and played Silent Speedball. What a joyful way to create a safe, welcoming classroom environment!❤️🖤

Stay Connected with Forestville!

Want to see what learning, laughter, and life at Forestville really look like? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for a front-row seat to the amazing moments happening in our classrooms and around our school. From special events and student highlights to spirit days and everyday fun—you won’t want to miss a thing!

📸 Facebook: ForestvilleFCPS
📸 Instagram: @forestvillefcps


FCPS Cares

Nominate a Forestville Employee Today

Want a quick way to recognize an employee or team? Share an FCPS CARES! Families, colleagues, and students are all invited to submit. The FCPS CARES is automatically sent to the recipient(s) and their supervisor, and is posted on fcps.edu. Additionally, each month one school in our region wins a staff celebration from HR. We encourage our community to show our staff that their hard work is appreciated and we thank you in advance for your time!


Forestville Families

Tuesday Folder

Forestville uses Schoology for all Tuesday Folder contents. All flyers are posted to Schoology Course: Forestville All Parents and contents are listed below.

  • FCPS AAP Identification Information
  • Twice Exceptional Information
  • Raptor Safe FAQ
  • Shake Shack - 9/28
  • Rugby Flyer
FCPS News with FCPS Logo

Twice Exceptional Students

Fairfax County Public Schools is committed to challenging all students through talent development and differentiated instruction. Twice-Exceptional (2e) learners are students who are both gifted and have learning challenges or disabilities. 

Families can learn more about 2e learners, how to support them, and how to partner with schools on the 2e webpage, which also includes a link to the Special Education Handbook.

New information, including printable flyers, has been added under the heading Supporting 2e Learners in FCPS. 


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:


Our Focus on Academic Growth and Excellence

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 third goal is for all students to achieve academic growth and excellence. We want our students to have the academic skills to be successful, including reading on level by third grade. See how Goal 3 is being put into practice. 


Not Feeling Well? When Your Child Can Come to School

School is better when your child is here! But we do understand that some days, they may feel unwell. Learn more about which symptoms are ok at school (like sneezing or sniffles), and when your child should stay home (if they have a fever, diarrhea, or vomiting, for example). 

 

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify the school so that assistance can be provided if needed. Keep an open line of communication with your school public health nurse. Call the school as soon as you know your child will be absent and, if possible, let them know how long you think they will be out.

 

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.


Immunization Events for FCPS Students

FCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will be providing school-required immunizations and optional flu shots for all FCPS students, ages 18 and under, with no out-of-pocket costs. 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. Additional immunization resources are also available. 


FCPS News

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

  • Military Families Find a Community in FCPS
  • Receive FCPS This Week in Other Languages
  • Not Feeling Well? When Your Child Can Come to School

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


PTA News with the Forestville Elementary School circular logo featuring a red cardinal mascot against a light red chevron pattern.

Free Forestville Cardinals sponsor T-shirts. Students should submit their shirt size on the PTA website using the QR code.

Free Cardinal T-Shirts

All students can receive a free Forestville Cardinals sponsor T-shirt! Families should submit their student’s shirt size through the PTA website.


Fall Carnival Flyer

Get Ready for Forestville’s Fall Carnival!

Mark your calendars for Forestville Elementary’s Annual Fall Carnival on Friday, September 25, from 5:30–7:30 p.m.! Enjoy tons of games and activities, including a dunk tank, face painting, a traveling magician, bounce houses for big and little kids, popcorn, and cotton candy. Tickets are $10 per person; children age 4 and under and volunteers attend free. Families who contribute at the Contributor level or higher by September 24 will receive two carnival tickets! 

Join the PTA "Contributor" Level or higher for 2 tickets to the Carnival.

Buy tickets to the Carnival.


Fall Carnival Committee

🎪 Fall Carnival Volunteers Needed!

One of Forestville's favorite traditions is just around the corner, and we're looking for volunteers to help make this year's Fall Carnival a success!

The Fall Carnival brings together our school and community for an evening of fun, games, and unforgettable memories. Whether you enjoy planning, organizing, creating, or simply lending a helping hand, we'd love to have you on the planning committee. No matter your experience level, there's a place for everyone to contribute.

If you're interested in helping shape one of our biggest community events of the year, please contact the PTA at president@forestvillepta.org or social@forestvillepta.org.

Together, we can make this year's Fall Carnival the best one yet! 🍂🎡


Shake Shack Donation Day

Shake Shack Donation Day

Donation Day.
Tuesday, September 29th

10AM to 10PM

Forestville Elementary School PTA

Mention Donation Day at the register or
drive-thru, or use promo code DONATE
on the Shack App, web or kiosk at checkout and we’ll donate 25% of your total meal purchase to

Reston Town Center
11940 Democracy Drive | Reston


Afterschool Enrichment: Arts & Crafts

PTA sponsored, Fall enrichment afterschool Arts and Crafts with Aristocrafts.

Our crafters will explore their creativity while making a variety of exciting, hands-on projects throughout the session. Each project is thoughtfully selected around seasonal trends, nature exploration, and holiday-themed celebrations, keeping the experience fresh, fun, and engaging week after week- session after session.Students will create unique pieces such as jewelry dish, wall décor, piñatas, and more.Along the way, they’ll learn age-appropriate crafting techniques, build fine motor skills, and gain confidence as they complete each project independently.This after-school program is a wonderful way for children to explore their artistic side.

​​Time:   4pm to 5:10pm

Dates: September 16, 23, 30; October 7, 14, 21, 28; November 4, 11, 18 (no class on November 25); and December 2, 9, and 16.


Afterschool Enrichment: Chess

PTA sponsored, Fall enrichment afterschool chess with Silver Knights Chess Academy 

Learn chess with Silver Knights Chess Academy! We’ve taught 100,000 children to play including state & national champions, but most students are beginners looking to learn a new skill and have FUN. Class time is divided between lessons and practice games. Lessons range from the basic rules to advanced tournament strategies.

Students will have the opportunity to play in tournaments outside of club time, which may have an additional fee.  All chess supplies provided. We welcome all grades and skill levels!

Time: 4pm to 5:10pm

Dates: Starts on 9/11, ends 12/18, no classes on 9/4, 10/30, 11/27


Afterschool Enrichment: Engineer Airplanes

PTA sponsored, Fall enrichment afterschool with RoboThink McLean Center.

Join Robothink for Engineer Airplanes this fall. In this program, students will be building a bunch of places, helicopters, and jets. As an Ariel entrepreneur, its up to you to make sure your business takes off.

Time: 4pm to 5:10pm


Afterschool Enrichment: Animation & Digital Art

PTA sponsored, Fall enrichment afterschool with iCode.

Join us this fall for iCode Tech Club for Animation and Digital Art Creation. Harness your creativity as we explore various forms of digital art with a focus on animation! Students will used drawing tables and a variety of software to create several animated projects in several different styles.

Time: 4pm to 5:10pm

Dates: Thursdays, September 24; October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; November 5, 12, 19; and December 3, 10, and 17.


Afterschool Enrichment: Soccer

PTA sponsored, Fall enrichment with Riverbend Futbol Club.

Afterschool soccer for 3rd, 4th and 5th Graders at no cost.

One parent for each child must volunteer 1 day to sign for the kids from the school at 4pm, then sign over the kids to the vendor. The Registration process allows parents to select their available day.


Forestville Spirit Wear Sale

Forestville Spiritwear Sale

Back to school gear drop with up to 35% off site wide at 1st Place Spiritwear. Great the best deals from the official spirit wear store of the PTA. Shop now at 1STPLACE.SALE/97231.