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 Students in our Family and Consumer Sciences classes are cooking some delicious food this week, and not forgetting to do all the dishes afterwards either! Meanwhile, something mysterious is being setup in the theatre, and students had to use their big trivia skills in Ms. Tourtellottte’s class to win the Caller 5 at 9:05 music challenge. What a fun week!
Franklin Community,
This is an exciting time for Franklin, and I want to begin this week by sharing an important opportunity for our families to learn more about a proposal that could have a significant impact on our school community in the years ahead.
Fairfax County Public Schools is proposing to open a new Full-Time Advanced Academic Program (AAP) Center at Franklin Middle School. If approved by the School Board, students who live within the Franklin MS boundary and participate in Full-Time AAP would attend Franklin beginning with 7th grade in the 2027-28 school year. The program would expand to include both 7th and 8th grades beginning in the 2028-29 school year.
We are very excited about the possibility of bringing this program to Franklin and expanding the opportunities available to students within our community. As part of the process, FCPS will host a community meeting at Franklin on Monday, October 5, at 6:00 p.m. Families will have an opportunity to learn more about the proposal to expand Full-Time AAP to all FCPS middle schools, ask questions, and provide feedback.
More information about the proposal can be found on the FCPS public webpage. If you are planning to attend the meeting, please complete the Franklin MS RSVP form. The RSVP form also allows families to indicate if interpretation services will be needed. We hope to see many of our families there as we learn more about this exciting opportunity for Franklin!
I also want to share a few reminders as FCPS continues implementing the student ID badge program on our school buses. Students may attach their badge to a backpack or another bag rather than wearing it, as long as the badge remains accessible and can reach the scanner when students board and exit the bus. Most importantly, students should not be denied transportation if they forget or do not have their badge. Transportation staff and bus drivers have been reminded of this expectation.
We also recognize that wearing a badge may not work for every student. Students with sensory, medical, or other documented concerns should not be forced to wear the badge. In those situations, a driver or assisting adult may scan the badge for the student. Our goal is to make the implementation of this new program as smooth and consistent as possible for everyone.
Many members of our community are also looking forward to the Chantilly Homecoming football game tonight! We hope everyone attending has a fun evening and enjoys being part of the larger Charger community. Before heading to the game, please keep a few important expectations in mind. Gates open at 6:00 p.m., and all attendees will enter through the security screeners located at the tennis courts. Elementary and middle school students will not be admitted without a supervising adult. After halftime, there will be no admission without a paying, accompanying adult. Please also note that the Greenbriar gate will be closed for entry and will be used to exit the game.
We know that Homecoming brings a lot of excitement, and I have no doubt that our Franklin students will represent our school with respect, positive behavior, and school spirit. Have fun tonight and Go Chargers!
Lastly, we had a little fun at Franklin today with our monthly Caller 5 at 9:05 competition! For those who are new to Franklin, Caller 5 at 9:05 is a game we play through Advisory in the style of an old-fashioned radio call-in contest. Classrooms receive a trivia question, often with a music component, and once they think they have the answer, they call my office. The fifth classroom to get through with the correct answer wins a prize!
It has become a fun monthly tradition and always brings a little extra energy to the building. Students get competitive, teachers get competitive, and my office phone gets quite a workout for a few minutes! It is a simple way for us to build community, have some fun together, and add a little friendly competition to the school day.
Have a wonderful weekend, and I hope everyone heading to Homecoming tonight has a fun and safe evening!
Tom DeRusso
Principal
Franklin Middle School
Weekly CARE Card Raffle Winners
~Important Dates~
October 3 - Cross Country Meet at Carson MS
October 5 - PTA Meeting - 5:30-6:00pm - Library
October 5 - AAP Community Meeting - 6:00pm - Gym
October 5 - TJHSST Applications Open - 4:00pm
October 19 & 20 - School Picture Day
November 3 - Spirit Night @ Big Buns - 4pm-9pm
~Action Items~
Picture Day is Coming!
October 19 and October 20
- School pictures will be taken during PE classes
- Pre-order today using the QR Code or go to mylifetouch.com
- Create an account or login with the Picture Day ID: EVT4QV8W4
- Orders will be sent home a few weeks after picture day
Review and Sign 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. We encourage families to discuss these expectations with their child(ren).
Families should review the SR&R and sign the acknowledgement form by Wednesday, September 30, either by logging into SIS ParentVUE or by signing and returning the Signature Sheet.
Cellphones and Personal Devices
Students may only use a personal device if it is required as part of a necessary accommodation in the student’s 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 on the FCPS website.
Understanding the Acceptable Use PolicyFCPS provides students with digital tools and devices to support their learning, encourage easy collaboration, and help students learn how to interact with technology safely. The FCPS Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) guides how these technologies are used both inside the classroom and at home. By following the AUP, students learn how to become not just users of technology, but responsible and ethical digital citizens with critical real-world skills such as:
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Responsible Communication and Conduct: Communicating respectfully and using technology appropriately.
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Digital Footprint Awareness: Understanding online actions can have lasting effects on a student’s reputation, future opportunities and relationships, career prospects, and safety.
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Data Privacy and Security: Learning how online safety can protect their digital work and personal information, and guard against cybersecurity risks.
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Self-Regulation: Learning to manage digital distractions to stay focused when needed.
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Accountability: Understanding that they are responsible for how they use FCPS technology and digital resources.
Learn more about digital citizenship at FCPS.
Register To Volunteer
All parents must register before volunteering for a school event. At Franklin Middle School, our volunteers are a vital part of our school community. We deeply value the time and care they give to our students.
We encourage all our parents and community members interested in supporting our students by volunteering at school to visit Volunteer FCPS, click “Learn More,” and then “Sign Up.” After you create a profile, you will view an orientation video and complete a volunteer application. Visit the Volunteer FCPS Frequently Asked Questions page to learn more.
Want to volunteer? Visit Volunteer FCPS to find and sign up for volunteer opportunities. Contact Volunteers@fcps.edu with any questions.
~Need to Know~
Attention 8th Grade Families:
Decisions for 8th-grade students that applied to National Junior Honor Society are being shared via email today (Friday, September 25th). Please review these emails with your student for details. Accepted members are expected to check the NJHS Schoology group regularly which includes announcements, service opportunities, meeting information, schedules, and important deadlines.
~Student Services~
Are You a U.S. Military-Connected Family?
Department of the Army - Department of the Navy - United States Coast Guard - United States Marine Corps - Department of the Air Force
Franklin Middle School would like to identify our U.S. military-connected families so we can better support and recognize them throughout the school year.
If you or your spouse/partner currently serves or has previously served in the United States Armed Forces, please complete this short Google Form
This form is only for families connected to the U.S. military
America’s military families live a transient lifestyle, moving into a new community every two to three years. Over 13,500 military-connected students are enrolled in FCPS. Welcome new military families into your community and share your appreciation for their service and sacrifices during this year’s #BlueStarWelcomeWeekFCPS from September 26 - October 4.
Blue Star Welcome!
Wear blue to support Franklin's military families!
Tuesday, September 29
TJHSST - Applications open
October 5, 4:00pm
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.
 Franklin MS will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 through October 15. This special month recognizes and celebrates the rich cultures, histories, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities.
Join us as we celebrate the diversity and heritage that enrich our Franklin community!
~After-School Program~
FRANKLIN AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM
Franklin Middle School offers free after-school activities every Monday through Friday all school year long.Whether your student wants to join sports, get help with homework, create, and compete in STEM clubs, play video games, or attend special events—there is something for everyone!
- Bus Transportation: Available 4 days a week.
- Schedule & more info on the Franklin After-School Website
- Late Runs - Posted in the After-School and Parent Schoology Course
- Parents can access the schedule via the Parent Schoology and the Franklin After-School website.
Even if your student isn't sure they want to participate right away, we strongly encourage every family to complete the registration form now.
👉Click Here to Complete the Registration Form (Only need to register your child once)
FRANKLIN CROSS COUNTRY
Practice next week will be on Monday and Thursday. Runners must practice 4 times before they can participate in a Cross Country Meet. The first meet is on Saturday October 3 at Carson MS. An email will be sent early next week to Cross Country parents with meet information. Cross Country Parents should also join the XC-sportsYou page. Directions were sent via Talking Points by Mr. Tippins.
Parents were sent an email directly from Final Forms on how to set up your account using your Parent Vue credentials. Final Forms will be the new registration site for all students that want to participate in Middle School Sports in FCPS. Parents can visit the Franklin MS Sports page or at the FCPS MS Sports site for more information.
Questions, please reach out to Chris Tippins, After-School Specialist/Athletic Coordinator at WCTippins@fcps.edu
~Franklin Middle School PTA~
Blue Star Families
Franklin Farm Starbucks Sponsors Blue Star Families
Thank you,
Franklin Farm Starbucks for supporting Blue Star Families
Franklin Farm Starbucks shows commitment to strengthening military families by connecting them with their neighbors to create vibrant communities of mutual support.
Parent Teacher Association Membership Drive - Franklin Middle School
Your Voice, Your Support, Our Children's Future.
Goal: 200 memberships.
Current Membership: 45 of 200 memberships.
Join Us Today - Get Involved plus Support Our Kids.
Be a voice for our students and a partner in their success!
Join us and help build a stronger, more connected school community.
Anyone can join: staff, parents and community members.
Join PTA HERE! or go to https://franklinmspta.givebacks.com/shop
PTA Meeting
October 5, 5:30pm-6:00PM
Franklin Middle PTA
Everyone Welcome!
Come join us, share ideas, meet the team, hear from our Principal and have a treat!
Franklin Middle School PTA
Scan the QR code or go to the url to get all of the important PTA information.
First PTA Meeting: October 5th
Join the PTA!
https://franklinmspta.givebacks.com/shop
Spiritwear!
https://1stplacespiritwear.com
Facebook!
Franklin Middle School-PTA
Instagram!
FCPSFRANKLINMS
News You Choose!
https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/VAEDUFCPS/subscriber/new?qsp=VAEDUFCPS_1
Franklin Middle School Spirit Night
Date: Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
Time: 4:00 P.M. to 9:05 P.M.
Location: Big Buns - Franklin Farm.
13300 Franklin Farm Road, Herndon, Virginia 20171.
Event Details:
~Helpful Information~
Get Ready for the New School Year With the FCPS App! 📱
Simplify your back-to-school prep! Download the FCPS mobile app to check school calendars, breakfast/lunch menus, and school contacts all in one place with no login required. Plus, get quick access to ParentVUE, Schoology, and the bus app.Download the FCPS mobile app in the Apple App Store or Google Play, and make sure to subscribe to our school in the app settings.
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.
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.
~Community Events~
Community Conversations with Superintendent Reid
Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for a Community Conversation. Students, families, staff, and community members are invited to ask questions, share concerns, and discuss what matters most to them. Everyone is welcome! Click on the date to register for any of the following events:
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Monday, September 28, at 6:30 p.m., at Riverside Elementary School
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Monday, October 19, at 6:30 p.m., at Spring Hill Elementary School
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Monday, October 26, at 6:30 p.m., at Beech Tree Elementary School
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Thursday, October 29, at 6:30 p.m., at North Springfield Elementary School
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Friday, November 13, at 6:30 p.m., at Powell 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.
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Lunes 28 de septiembre, a las 6:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Riverside
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Lunes 19 de octubre, a las 6:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Spring Hill
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Lunes 26 de octubre, a las 6:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Beech Tree
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Jueves 29 de octubre, a las 6:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria North Springfield
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Viernes 13 de noviembre, a las 6:30 p.m., en la Escuela Primaria Powell
No es necesario inscribirse, pero hacerlo nos ayuda con la planificación.
Halloween on the Farm!
Family-Friendly Halloween Fun at Frying Pan Farm Park
Friday, October 23
Choose your one-hour time slot between 5-7pm
Saturday, October 24
Choose your one-hour time slot between 4:30-6:30pm
All ages • Advance registration: $12 • Day-of registration: $15, if available
Celebrate Halloween with farm animals, treats, crafts and fall fun at Frying Pan Farm Park.
Enjoy: • Trick-or-treating on the farm • Farm animals • Crafts and games • A decorated farmhouse • Fall activities
[disclaimer] This information is neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the superintendent, or this school.
Fairfax County Park Authority, Frying Pan Farm Park, and Fairfax County. A Fairfax County publication - 7/26
Frying Pan Farm Park 2709 West Ox Road, Herndon www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/frying-pan-park 703-437-9101
703-324-8563 • TTY Va. Relay 711 - Scan the QR code
Farm Harvest Days and Carnival
Presented by: Fairfax County Park Authority, Fairfax County Park Foundation, and Friends of Frying Pan Farm Park
Friday, October 16 through Sunday, October 18, 2026.
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Big Truck Night: Friday, October 16 from 5 to 7 p.m.
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Farm Harvest Days: Saturday, October 17 to Sunday, October 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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Fall Carnival Hours:
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Friday, October 16: 5 to 9 p.m.
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Saturday, October 17: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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Sunday, October 18: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Frying Pan Farm Park, 2709 West Ox Road, Herndon, Virginia.
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Carnival rides and games
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Big Truck Night
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Farm demonstrations and hands-on activities
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Food vendors and beer garden
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Meet farm animals
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Parking Fee: 10 dollars per vehicle.
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Unlimited Ride Wristbands: Buy Early and Save 5 dollars!
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Scan the provided QR code for wristbands, full schedule, and event details.
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Website: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/frying-pan-park
ADA and Inclusion Accommodations Phone: 703-324-8563, TTY Virginia Relay 711
This information is neither sponsored or endorsed by the Fairfax County Schoolboard, the superintendent or this school.
A Fairfax County, Virginia publication, August 2026.
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.
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