Virginia Run Weekly Message 9/11/24

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School Hours: 9:15 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday School building opens for students at 9:00 AM Office: 703-988-8900 Attendance: 703-988-8989

 

September 11, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE
  1. El Fresco Restaurant Day!
  2. Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk
  3. Parent Digital Consent
  4. Advanced Academic Program Parent Coffee Session
  5. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
  6. Birthday Celebrations
  7. Breakfast/Lunch 
  8. Virginia Run After-school Form for Elementary Early Release Mondays
  9. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
  10. PTA Meeting Dates
  11. PTA Social Vice President Needed
  12. Join the VRES PTA
  13. PTA Fall 2024 Enrichment Clubs
  14. Virginia Run Fall Fun Night - Save the Date!
  15. PTA Fall Fun Night Volunteers and Donations
  16. VRES Spirit Wear!
  17. Donut Drive-Thru Fundraiser
  18. No Fuss Fundraiser!
  19. Here Comes the Bus Mobile App
  20. Cardinal Care Health Coverage
  21. Important Upcoming Dates
  22. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
  23. Monthly Lunch Menu

 

1. El Fresco Restaurant Day!

Our first Spirit Day will be held on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at El Fresco Restaurant in Centreville, 6005 Centreville Crest Lane. Order for dining in, pick-up, or delivery ALL DAY! 15% of the proceeds will be donated to the VRES PTA.

**Mention VRES Spirit in “Special Instructions” when ordering online.

www.elfresco.com

 

2. Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk

This coming school year, Virginia Run will partner with Asha-Jyothi to support Virginia Run students! Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk is a fun-filled family event with foot tapping music, delicious food and a friendly course. It is a volunteer based non-profit organization dedicated to serving the needs of the underprivileged by providing access to education and health care. Asha-Jyothi partners with schools by donating 100% of all registration money from each school back to the school for its STEM needs. 

Last year the Asha-Jyothi foundation granted Deer Park Elementary School over $100,000 to recreate their STEAM Lab into Bucky's Learning Lab.  Please join us in supporting this wonderful organization and our Virginia Run students.

Race Date: Sunday, September 15 Location: 4250 Fairfax Corner Avenue; Fairfax, VA 22030 Race Time: Fun Run starts at 8:00 AM and 5K starts at 8:30 AM Price: $30 / Coupon Code "AJ4Schools" for $10 off the 5K

Register Here - Fairfax 5K, hope to see you there!

 

3. Parent Digital Consent

Forms are available in the Parent Digital Consent (PDC) starting in the 2024-2025 school year. Parents should log in using their ParentVue username and password.

Available forms include:

  • Digital Resources Consent (This form is used to agree (consent) or disagree (refusal) for your student(s) to use the FCPS-approved online tools listed on the school website as part of the instructional program.)
  • School Counseling Opt-Out
  • SEL Screener Opt-Out
  • Denial of Access to Military Recruiters
  • Family Life Education Opt-Out
  • SOL Retest Permission
  • Hazel Health
  • Objection to Release of Information to Outside Organizations
  • Objection to Release of Directory Information to the Public
4. Advanced Academic Program Parent Coffee Session

A parent coffee will be held in the library on Monday, September 30th from 9:30 until 10:30 AM. Brittany Wade, AART, will provide an overview about the continuum of Advanced Academic services (levels I through IV) and also briefly review the screening process for Advanced Academic services. Please note a separate parent information meeting will be held in late October specifically for the screening process for full-time (level IV) services for parents of students in grades 2 through 6. 

Please RSVP by September 23 to the parent coffee by signing up at this link.

If your child is new to Fairfax County in grades 3-6 and you want your child screened for full time level IV advanced services, the fall deadline is October 15th, 2024. 

Please contact Brittany Wade at [email protected].    

  

Our new entrance rug looks great thanks to the 2024 6th grade students and families.

 

5. Positivity Project at Virginia Run

This week our school is focusing on the character strength of Open-Mindedness. This means being willing to consider new ideas and try new things. It involves looking at situations from all sides and not jumping to conclusions.

Open-mindedness is about seeking out and fairly weighing evidence, even if it goes against our own opinions or goals. Open-minded people listen to different viewpoints, including those that are less popular. They are often good listeners and provide balanced advice, which makes them great friends and confidants. This strength helps individuals form meaningful and lasting relationships.

To practice and encourage the Other People Mindset at home, please visit the Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families.

 

6. Birthday Celebrations

More and more of our students are diagnosed with severe food allergies, and many of our parents/guardians want to limit their children’s intake of sweets. For this reason, if parents want to send in a treat for their child’s birthday, we prefer it be a non-food treat to share with his/her classmates. 

 

7. Breakfast/Lunch

Breakfast is served at VRES. Students will be able to pick up a “Grab and Go” breakfast for $1.75. Students on free or reduced meals receive breakfast for free. The price for a school lunch will be $3.25 including milk. Milk may be purchased separately and costs $.75. 

You may send in cash or a check made payable to Virginia Run Food Service  in an envelope with your child’s name and teacher name. Money can be added to the account at any time during the year. You may also pay for your child’s breakfast/lunch with credit/debit card or electronic check online only at www.myschoolbucks.com.   

 

Our kindergartners met with some of our bus drivers to review bus safety.

 

8. Virginia Run After-school Form for Elementary Early Release Mondays

The Early Release Mondays planned throughout the school year for elementary schools are essential to allow educators time for planning and professional development.  Students will be dismissed 3 hours early seven times throughout the school year and are encouraged to return home via their normal route.  However, we understand there may be a childcare hardship because of the early release Mondays for many of our families.  To resolve these concerns, student supervision will be available for families who need it. 

The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year:

  • September 23

  • October 28

  • December 9 (The previous November 25 date is on the Monday before Thanksgiving Break. The FCPS Early Release Monday Steering Committee decided that date should move to December 9 and this was recently approved)

  • February 24

  • March 17

  • April 28

  • May 19

To help plan for our school’s childcare needs during the early release Mondays, please complete this form: https://forms.gle/QaKhRNnA4RW9oQeC7 for each of your children who are enrolled at Virginia Run Elementary. The form covers the first two early release Mondays, scheduled for September 23, 2024 and October 28, 2024. If you have multiple children, you will need to submit multiple forms. Staff will confirm the after school supervision plan for each student.

Mrs. Morsch’s class studied Science outside by looking at living and non-living things. 

 

9. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Students and staff greatly appreciate the support we receive from the PTA. All parents are encouraged to join the PTA and help make the 2024-2025 school year successful for all students.

PTA Board for 2024-2025:

President: Christina Minogue

Treasurer: Matthew Reklau

Secretary: Laura McAndrews

VP of Fundraising: Amanda Prindle

VP of Education: Kimberly Wilson

VP of Social: Cara Priester

To stay informed regarding all upcoming PTA activities, visit the PTA website at https://vrespta.ptboard.com/.

If you would like to reach the Board, please email [email protected].

 

10. PTA Meeting Dates for 2024-2025

PTA Meeting Dates for the 2024-2025 school year. Meetings start at 7:00 PM.

10/8- General Meeting

11/12 – General Meeting

2/11 – General Meeting

3/11 – General Meeting

4/8 – General Meeting

5/13- General Meeting

 

11. PTA Social Vice President Needed

The PTA Board needs a Social Vice President! Our current Social VP, Cara Priester, accepted a position as 6th grade teacher at VRES beginning this year. Congratulations Cara! We are thrilled to have her as a teacher, but sad to see her take the step of vacating her PTA Board seat. Thank you for all you did in this role last year! 

We’re looking for an individual who thrives on celebrating others!  We’re so lucky to have such an amazing staff and we want to ensure that they are recognized.  The role of the Social VP is to oversee volunteers and committees to organize social events for our school community and to recognize our teachers and staff in various ways throughout the school year. 

If you’re interested in joining our PTA Board, or if you have any questions, please contact Cara Priester at [email protected].  We look forward to hearing from you!

 

12. Join the VRES PTA

Join the VRES PTA TODAY! Your dues help fund PTA sponsored events, staff support, and school improvements. You will have access to the school directory, receive newsletters with information regarding events, yearbook pre-order sales, and more! Join by October 2nd to be entered into a raffle. The class with the most memberships wins a popsicle party!

To join, return the form that was sent home in the Wednesday folder with your payment. 

PTA Membership Form 24-25 - English

PTA Membership Form 24-25 - Spanish

 

13. PTA Fall 2024 Enrichment Clubs

The PTA has lined up fun enrichment clubs for this fall - Tennis, Pottery, 3D Printing, Cooking, Acting, LEGO Club, Music and more!

Click the link below to learn more and register!

Click here for Fall 2024 Clubs

If you have any club questions, please contact Kimberly Wilson at [email protected].

 

14. Virginia Run Fall Fun Night - Save the Date!

Save the Date! Virginia Run’s Fall Fun Night will be held on October 18th at VRES from 5:30 - 8:00. Bring the whole family for an evening of Fall Fun Activities. See the schedule below.

5:30 - 8:00 - Fall Festival, Cafeteria, Gym, Lobby, Kiss ‘n Ride Loop

5:30 - 6:30 - Trunk or Treat, Bus Loop

5:30 - 7:30 - Book Fair, Library

Save the Date Fall Fest 2024 Flyer

 

15. PTA Fall Fun Night Volunteers and Donations

We look forward to seeing students and their families at the annual VRES Fall Fun Night on October 18. This evening is a favorite of students, staff and families which includes Trunk or Treat, Fall Fest and the Scholastic Book Fair. To make the event a success the PTA relies on donations and volunteers. Please use the links below to view opportunities to support this event.  Additionally, for those planning to partake in Trunk or Treat part of the evening, we kindly ask for a donation of one bag of candy or non-candy items per child participating. These donations, as well as donations towards the Fall Festival , may be dropped off in the designated area in the foyer.

Volunteer Opportunities:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA4AA2BA4FB6-51001139-fall#/

 

Donation Requests:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094DA4AA2BA4FB6-50994562-fall#/

 

16. VRES Spirit Wear!

Order your VRES Spirit Wear Today! There are 3 ways to order. You can order by using the form that was sent home in the Wednesday folder, by using the QR code provided on the form, or by going to VRESPTA.PTboard.com. Cash or checks made payable to VRES PTA. Orders will be accepted through Thursday, October 10th. Your order will be delivered to your child’s classroom in October. Please contact [email protected].

Spirit Wear Flyer - English

Spirit Wear Flyer - Spanish

 

17. Donut Drive-Thru Fundraiser

Help us support our kids! Virginia Run will have a Donut Drive-Thru on Saturday, October 19, 2024 from 8:30 am - 9:30 am in the VRES Kiss ‘n Ride lane. Donuts are $16 per box. You may also order certificates that can be redeemed for one dozen glazed donuts at any Krispy Kreme. To order your donuts and/or certificates, please return the lower portion of the form that went home in the Wednesday folder with payment made out to VRES PTA OR order online at https://vrespta.ptboard.com by October 14, 2024.

Questions? Email Heather Ervin at [email protected].

Donut Drive-Thru Fall 2024 - English

Donut Drive-Thru Fall 2024 - Spanish

 

18. No Fuss Fundraiser!

Would you like to support the VRES PTA, but not have to fuss with any fundraising events this year, guilt-free?! Then this fundraiser is for you! Use the QR code on the flyer that was sent home in the Wednesday folder to support Virginia Run!

VRES No Fuss Fundraiser 24-25

 

19. Here Comes the Bus Mobile App 

Welcome to Here Comes the Bus! Know when your bus is approaching your stop. Here Comes the Bus® app is a school bus tracking app that can simplify morning and afternoon routines for parents and students by giving them real-time bus location and text or email notification alerts, helping them get to the bus stop on time. Here Comes the Bus® utilizes our GPS data and an easy-to-use customizable map that works on one or multiple devices, such as a tablet or smartphone.

How to Get Started

Using the app is EASY! You will need the FCPS school district code 28982 and a Student Information System (SIS) Parent Account. Contact Virginia Run Elementary if you do not have an SIS Parent Account. 

Please Note: If a new SIS Parent Account was created, please wait 24-48 hours before proceeding with the detailed instructions below.

From a smartphone or tablet, download (for free) the Here Comes the Bus® app from the App Store or Google Play.

  1. Open the app.  Enter your email address associated with your SIS Parent Account.  Do Not Use the Student Login or Sign Up links.
  2. Enter FCPS school district code 28982.
  3. Enter your password associated with your SIS Parent Account.
  4. Click 'Login', just below the password field.
  5. Next, you will be prompted to validate your account.  Please click the Validation Button (the app will close). Next, log on to your email account associated with your SIS Parent Account.
  6. Please open the validation email from Synovia and click the validate account link.  (If you do not receive an email, check the junk/spam folder)  A browser window will open.  Please close the browser window and return to the Here Comes the Bus® app.
  7. Repeat the previous login steps (Steps 1-4).
  8. Enter the name of your device.
  9. Close and log back onto the Here Comes the Bus® app.
  10. Under 'Students', you should see a list of your student(s) names.
  11. Confirm the information and you are ready to begin using Here Comes the Bus®.

Once signed in, you can customize or edit features, including how the app will communicate with you, and the size and location of the notification radius around your child's bus stop.

Support email for parents to contact: [email protected]

20. Cardinal Care Health Coverage

Cardinal Care provides free, comprehensive health coverage to keep Virginia’s families healthy and students learning. Apply or check to see if you qualify at commonhelp.virginia.gov or call toll free 1-833-5CALLVA (TTY: 1-888-221-1590) or contact your local Department of Social Services. For more information about Cardinal Care, go to coverva.dmas.virginia.gov

Cardinal Care Flyer - English

Cardinal Care Flyer - Spanish

 

21. Important Upcoming Dates

9/23: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

9/30: AAP Overview Parent Coffee at 9:30 AM in the Library

10/3: Rosh Hashanah- Student Holiday

10/4: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

10/7: Coffee with the Principal at The Meadows from 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM

10/14: Staff Development Day - Student Holiday

10/15-10/21: VRES Book Fair

10/17: Picture Day

10/18: VRES Fall Festival

10/28: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

10/31: End of Quarter 1 - 2 Hour Student Release at 2:00 PM

11/1: Diwali- Student Holiday

11/4: School Planning Day- Student Holiday

11/5: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

11/11: Veterans Day- Student Holiday

11/27-11/29: Thanksgiving Break- Student Holiday

12/9: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

12/11: Winter Chorus Concert

12/23-1/3: Winter Break- Student Holiday

1/20: Martin Luther King, Jr’s Birthday- Student Holiday

1/28: End of Quarter 2

1/29: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

2/17: Washington’s Birthday and President’s Day- Student Holiday

2/24: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

3/17: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

3/28: End of Quarter 3

3/31: Eid-al-Fitr- Student Holiday

4/1: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

4/14-4/18: Spring Break- Student Holiday

4/28: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

5/19: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

5/26: Memorial Day- Student Holiday

6/11: Last Day of School- 2 Hour Student Release at 2:00 PM

View the calendar online here: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf/2024-2025-standard-school-year-calendar.pdf 

 

22. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

23. Monthly Lunch Menu

Please use this link to view the Virginia Run ES Lunch Menu.

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Back to School Night Message 9/9/24

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School Hours: 9:15 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday School building opens for students at 9:00 AM Office: 703-988-8900 Attendance: 703-988-8989

 

September 9, 2024

  Back to School Night

We look forward to seeing all of you at tomorrow's Back to School Night event on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. This is an opportunity to learn about your child's teacher, classroom and school expectations, and curriculum. Based on the content, this event is planned for adults only.

Since we do have families with children in multiple grade levels, we are offering 2 sessions with a transition in between to give families time to get to the next teacher. Session times are below:  

Session I   Grades PS, Kindergarten, 3 and 4 5:30 PM – 6:15 PM

Session II Grades 1, 2, 5 and 6   6:30 PM – 7:15 PM

6th grade presentation will begin in the library at 6:30 PM

**ATTENTION Full Time AAP Family Information Session

We will have a Back to School Night Information Session for families who have students in the local full time advanced academic program grades 3 - 5. This session will take place in the library from 5:00 - 5:30 PM. If you are not able to attend or have any questions, please contact Brittany Wade at [email protected] and we will send you the information.

 

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Special Message 9/5/24

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English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

School Hours: 9:15 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday School building opens for students at 9:00 AM Office: 703-988-8900 Attendance: 703-988-8989

 

September 5, 2024

SEL Screener: Grades 3-6

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) believes in supporting social and emotional learning (SEL) for all students. In FCPS, students use a tool called the SEL Screener to think about their own SEL skills and experiences at school. Virginia Run ES students in grades 3-6 will be participating in the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener in the Fall and Spring. 

After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families without a ParentVUE account. For more information about the SEL Screener including information on opting out please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

 

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Special Message 9/5/24

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English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

School Hours: 9:15 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday School building opens for students at 9:00 AM Office: 703-988-8900 Attendance: 703-988-8989

 

September 5, 2024

SEL Screener: Grades 3-6

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) believes in supporting social and emotional learning (SEL) for all students. In FCPS, students use a tool called the SEL Screener to think about their own SEL skills and experiences at school. Virginia Run ES students in grades 3-6 will be participating in the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener in the Fall and Spring. 

After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families without a ParentVUE account. For more information about the SEL Screener including information on opting out please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

 

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Special Message 9/5/24

GovDelivery6 days 21 hours ago

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

School Hours: 9:15 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday School building opens for students at 9:00 AM Office: 703-988-8900 Attendance: 703-988-8989

 

September 5, 2024

SEL Screener: Grades 3-6

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) believes in supporting social and emotional learning (SEL) for all students. In FCPS, students use a tool called the SEL Screener to think about their own SEL skills and experiences at school. Virginia Run ES students in grades 3-6 will be participating in the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener in the Fall and Spring. 

After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families without a ParentVUE account. For more information about the SEL Screener including information on opting out please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

 

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Weekly Message 9/4/24

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To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

School Hours: 9:15 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday School building opens for students at 9:00 AM Office: 703-988-8900 Attendance: 703-988-8989

 

September 4, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE
  1. Parent Digital Consent
  2. Back to School Night
  3. Wednesday Envelope
  4. Advanced Academic Program Parent Coffee Session
  5. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
  6. Birthday Celebrations
  7. Breakfast/Lunch 
  8. Virginia Run After-school Form for Elementary Early Release Mondays
  9. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
  10. PTA Meeting Dates
  11. El Fresco Restaurant Day!
  12. PTA Fall 2024 Enrichment Clubs
  13. Here Comes the Bus Mobile App
  14. Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk
  15. Important Upcoming Dates
  16. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
  17. Monthly Lunch Menu

 

1. Parent Digital Consent

Forms are available in the Parent Digital Consent (PDC) starting in the 2024-2025 school year. Parents should log in using their ParentVue username and password.

Available forms include:

  • Digital Resources Consent (This form is used to agree (consent) or disagree (refusal) for your student(s) to use the FCPS-approved online tools listed on the school website as part of the instructional program.)
  • School Counseling Opt-Out
  • SEL Screener Opt-Out
  • Denial of Access to Military Recruiters
  • Family Life Education Opt-Out
  • SOL Retest Permission
  • Hazel Health
  • Objection to Release of Information to Outside Organizations
  • Objection to Release of Directory Information to the Public
2. Back to School Night

Back to School Night will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. Since we do have families with children in multiple grade levels, we are offering 2 sessions with a transition in between to give families time to get to the next teacher. Session times are below:  

Session I   Grades PS, Kindergarten, 3 and 4 5:30 PM – 6:15 PM

Session II Grades 1, 2, 5 and 6   6:30 PM – 7:15 PM

6th grade presentation will begin in the library at 6:30 PM

**ATTENTION Full Time AAP Family Information Session

We will have a Back to School Night Information Session for families who have students in the local full time advanced academic program grades 3-5. This session will take place in the library from 5:00-5:30 PM. If you are not able to attend or have any questions, please contact Brittany Wade at [email protected] and we will send you the information.

 

3. Wednesday Envelope

Please read over the contents of the envelope carefully. Inside you will find valuable information and forms which need to be returned to school. The Wednesday Envelope is our communication link with you. The Wednesday Envelope is a bright yellow envelope that students will take home every Wednesday. In the envelope you will find fliers, schoolwork samples and other school communications. Parents are asked to remove and read the contents, sign the front of the envelope, and help students remember to return it to school the next day.  

 

4. Advanced Academic Program Parent Coffee Session

A parent coffee will be held in the library on Monday, September 30th from 9:30 until 10:30 AM. Brittany Wade, AART, will provide an overview about the continuum of Advanced Academic services (levels I through IV) and also briefly review the screening process for Advanced Academic services. Please note a separate parent information meeting will be held in late October specifically for the screening process for full time (level IV) services for parents of students in grades 2 through 6. 

Please RSVP by September 23 to the parent coffee by signing up at this link.

If your child is new to Fairfax County in grades 3-6 and you want your child screened for full time level IV advanced services, the fall deadline is October 15th, 2024. 

Please contact Brittany Wade [email protected].     

     

5. Positivity Project at Virginia Run 

This week, our school community will focus on the character strength of Teamwork. Teamwork means you work well as a member of a group or team. You are loyal, reliable, and dedicated to helping your team achieve its goals. 

Teamwork involves prioritizing group success. Those strong in teamwork help all group members succeed, committing time and resources to the group's goals. They often delay personal accomplishments to ensure the group's overall success, which fosters positive feelings and counters selfishness and egotism.

To practice and encourage the Other People Mindset at home, please visit the Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families.

 

6. Birthday Celebrations

More and more of our students are diagnosed with severe food allergies, and many of our parents/guardians want to limit their children’s intake of sweets. For this reason, if parents want to send in a treat for their child’s birthday, we prefer it be a non-food treat to share with his/her classmates. 

 

7. Breakfast/Lunch

Breakfast is served at VRES. Students will be able to pick up a “Grab and Go” breakfast for $1.75. Students on free or reduced meals receive breakfast for free. The price for a school lunch will be $3.25 including milk. Milk may be purchased separately and costs $.75. 

You may send in cash or a check made payable to Virginia Run Food Service  in an envelope with your child’s name and teacher name. Money can be added to the account at any time during the year. You may also pay for your child’s breakfast/lunch with credit/debit card or electronic check online only at www.myschoolbucks.com.   

 

8. Virginia Run After-school Form for Elementary Early Release Mondays

The Early Release Mondays planned throughout the school year for elementary schools are essential to allow educators time for planning and professional development.  Students will be dismissed 3 hours early seven times throughout the school year and are encouraged to return home via their normal route.  However, we understand there may be a childcare hardship because of the early release Mondays for many of our families.  To resolve these concerns, student supervision will be available for families who need it. 

The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year:

  • September 23

  • October 28

  • December 9 (The previous November 25 date is on the Monday prior to Thanksgiving Break. The FCPS Early Release Monday Steering Committee decided that date should move to December 9 and this was recently approved)

  • February 24

  • March 17

  • April 28

  • May 19

To help plan for our school’s childcare needs during the early release Mondays, please complete this form: https://forms.gle/QaKhRNnA4RW9oQeC7 for each of your children who are enrolled at Virginia Run Elementary. The form covers the first two early release Mondays, scheduled for September 23, 2024 and October 28, 2024. If you have multiple children, you will need to submit multiple forms. Staff will confirm the after school supervision plan for each student.

 

9. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Students and staff greatly appreciate the support we receive from the PTA. All parents are encouraged to join the PTA and help make the 2024-2025 school year successful for all students.

PTA Board for 2024-2025:

President: Christina Minogue

Treasurer: Matthew Reklau

Secretary: Laura McAndrews

VP of Fundraising: Amanda Prindle

VP of Education: Kimberly Wilson

VP of Social: Cara Priester

To stay informed regarding all upcoming PTA activities, visit the PTA website at https://vrespta.ptboard.com/.

If you would like to reach the Board, please email [email protected].

 

10. PTA Meeting Dates for 2024-2025

PTA Meeting Dates for the 2024-2025 school year. Meetings start at 7:00 PM.

9/10- Meet and Greet in the Virginia Run Lobby

10/8- General Meeting

11/12 – General Meeting

2/11 – General Meeting

3/11 – General Meeting

4/8 – General Meeting

5/13- General Meeting

 

11. El Fresco Restaurant Day!

Our first Spirit Day will be held on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at El Fresco Restaurant in Centreville, 6005 Centreville Crest Lane. Order for dining in, pick-up, or delivery ALL DAY! 15% of the proceeds will be donated to the VRES PTA.

**Mention VRES Spirit in “Special Instructions” when ordering online.

www.elfresco.com

El Fresco Restaurant Day Flyer

 

12. PTA Fall 2024 Enrichment Clubs

The PTA has lined up fun enrichment clubs for this fall - Tennis, Pottery, 3D Printing, Cooking, Acting, LEGO Club, Music and more!

Click the link below to learn more and register!

Click here for Fall 2024 Clubs

If you have any club questions, please contact Kimberly Wilson at [email protected].

 

13. Here Comes the Bus Mobile App 

Welcome to Here Comes the Bus! Know when your bus is approaching your stop. Here Comes the Bus® app is a school bus tracking app that can simplify morning and afternoon routines for parents and students by giving them real-time bus location and text or email notification alerts, helping them get to the bus stop on time. Here Comes the Bus® utilizes our GPS data and an easy-to-use customizable map that works on one or multiple devices, such as a tablet or smartphone.

How to Get Started

Using the app is EASY! You will need the FCPS school district code 28982 and a Student Information System (SIS) Parent Account. Contact Virginia Run Elementary if you do not have an SIS Parent Account. 

Please Note: If a new SIS Parent Account was created, please wait 24-48 hours before proceeding with the detailed instructions below.

From a smartphone or tablet, download (for free) the Here Comes the Bus® app from the App Store or Google Play.

  1. Open the app.  Enter your email address associated with your SIS Parent Account.  Do Not Use the Student Login or Sign Up links.
  2. Enter FCPS school district code 28982.
  3. Enter your password associated with your SIS Parent Account.
  4. Click 'Login', just below the password field.
  5. Next, you will be prompted to validate your account.  Please click the Validation Button (the app will close). Next, log on to your email account associated with your SIS Parent Account.
  6. Please open the validation email from Synovia and click the validate account link.  (If you do not receive an email, check the junk/spam folder)  A browser window will open.  Please close the browser window and return to the Here Comes the Bus® app.
  7. Repeat the previous login steps (Steps 1-4).
  8. Enter the name of your device.
  9. Close and log back onto the Here Comes the Bus® app.
  10. Under 'Students', you should see a list of your student(s) names.
  11. Confirm the information and you are ready to begin using Here Comes the Bus®.

Once signed in, you can customize or edit features, including how the app will communicate with you, and the size and location of the notification radius around your child's bus stop.

Support email for parents to contact: [email protected]

 

14. Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk

This coming school year, Virginia Run will partner with Asha-Jyothi to support Virginia Run students! Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk is a fun-filled family event with foot tapping music, delicious food and a friendly course. It is a volunteer based non-profit organization dedicated to serving the needs of the underprivileged by providing access to education and health care. Asha-Jyothi partners with schools by donating 100% of all registration money from each school back to the school for its STEM needs. 

Last year the Asha-Jyothi foundation granted Deer Park Elementary School over $100,000 to recreate their STEAM Lab into Bucky's Learning Lab. Please join us in supporting this wonderful organization and our Virginia Run students.

Race Date: Sunday, September 15

Location: 4250 Fairfax Corner Avenue; Fairfax, VA 22030

Race Time: Fun Run starts at 8:00 AM and 5K starts at 8:30 AM

Price: $30 / Coupon Code "AJ4Schools" for $10 off the 5K

Register Here - Fairfax 5K, hope to see you there!

 

15. Important Upcoming Dates

9/10: Virginia Run Back to School Night

9/23: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

9/30: AAP Overview Parent Coffee at 9:30 AM in the Library

10/3: Rosh Hashanah- Student Holiday

10/4: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

10/14: Staff Development Day - Student Holiday

10/15-10/21: VRES Book Fair

10/18: VRES Fall Festival

10/28: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

10/31: End of Quarter 1 - 2 Hour Student Release at 2:00 PM

11/1: Diwali- Student Holiday

11/4: School Planning Day- Student Holiday

11/5: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

11/11: Veterans Day- Student Holiday

11/27-11/29: Thanksgiving Break- Student Holiday

12/9: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

12/11: Winter Chorus Concert

12/23-1/3: Winter Break- Student Holiday

1/20: Martin Luther King, Jr’s Birthday- Student Holiday

1/28: End of Quarter 2

1/29: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

2/17: Washington’s Birthday and President’s Day- Student Holiday

2/24: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

3/17: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

3/28: End of Quarter 3

3/31: Eid-al-Fitr- Student Holiday

4/1: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

4/14-4/18: Spring Break- Student Holiday

4/28: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

5/19: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

5/26: Memorial Day- Student Holiday

6/11: Last Day of School- 2 Hour Student Release at 2:00 PM

View the calendar online here: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf/2024-2025-standard-school-year-calendar.pdf 

 

16. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

17. Monthly Lunch Menu

Please use this link to view the Virginia Run ES Lunch Menu.

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Weekly Message 8/28/24

GovDelivery2 weeks ago

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

School Hours: 9:15 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday School building opens for students at 9:00 AM Office: 703-988-8900 Attendance: 703-988-8989

 

August 28, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE
  1. Parent Digital Consent
  2. Back to School Night
  3. Bus Transportation
  4. Kiss ‘n Ride and Walkers
  5. Wednesday Envelope
  6. Advanced Academic Program Parent Coffee Session
  7. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
  8. Birthday Celebrations
  9. Breakfast/Lunch 
  10. Free and Reduced Application
  11. Virginia Run After-school Form for Elementary Early Release Mondays
  12. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
  13. PTA Meeting Dates
  14. El Fresco Restaurant Day!
  15. Here Comes the Bus Mobile App
  16. Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk
  17. Important Upcoming Dates
  18. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
  19. Monthly Lunch Menu

 

August 30 - September 2
Labor Day (Holiday)

Friday, August 30 and Monday, Sept. 2, are Labor Day holidays for all FCPS employees and students. Virginia legislation requires that schools opening prior to Labor Day must be closed the Friday immediately preceding Labor Day. We hope everyone takes the long weekend to celebrate a strong start to the school year and enjoy time with family and friends.

See the complete school year calendar.

  

1. Parent Digital Consent

Forms are available in the Parent Digital Consent (PDC) starting in the 2024-2025 school year. Parents should log in using their ParentVue username and password.

Available forms include:

  • Digital Resources Consent (This form is used to agree (consent) or disagree (refusal) for your student(s) to use the FCPS-approved online tools listed on the school website as part of the instructional program.)
  • School Counseling Opt-Out
  • SEL Screener Opt-Out
  • Denial of Access to Military Recruiters
  • Family Life Education Opt-Out
  • SOL Retest Permission
  • Hazel Health
  • Objection to Release of Information to Outside Organizations
  • Objection to Release of Directory Information to the Public
2. Back to School Night

Back to School Night will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. Since we do have families with children in multiple grade levels, we are offering 2 sessions with a transition in between to give families time to get to the next teacher. Session times are below:  

Session I -  Grades PS, Kindergarten, 3 and 4 - 5:30 PM – 6:15 PM

Session II - Grades 1, 2, 5 and 6 - 6:30 PM – 7:15 PM

 

3. Bus Transportation

Students are required to board and depart the bus assigned to the student to prevent overcrowding on buses. Any changes require permission from the transportation office. Transportation can be reached at 703-249-7000. Please be patient with any changes or delays in the transportation schedule as some needed adjustments are made during the first week of school. (Kindergarten parents: If transported, kindergarten students must be met at the bus stop each afternoon by a parent, parent designee, or a responsible middle school or older sibling, and asked for by name at the bus door.)

Due to overcrowding issues, we do not allow students to go home on the bus with other students for a play date. We understand sometimes an emergency case may arise where childcare plans result in your child having to get off at a different bus stop other than the one closest to your home. In this case, please notify the office immediately. We need this information as soon as possible in order to assure correct transportation information.

Virginia Run does not make any bus transportation decisions. For all questions relating to the bus routes, stops, or times, please contact transportation at 703-249-7000. 

 

4. Kiss ‘n Ride and Walkers

Car riders must use the Kiss N’ Ride area in front of the school. For safety reasons, the side driveway (bus lane) is restricted to bus traffic in the morning and afternoon. Parents are not permitted to use the bus lane. Dropping your child off in the parking lots presents a safety hazard for students, staff, and vehicles. While in the Kiss N’ Ride Line, the students must exit the vehicle on the right-hand side. For safety reasons and to keep the line flowing, we ask that parents do not exit their vehicle to help their child out of the car while in the Kiss N’ Ride line. 

Staff members will be on hand to assist, in the mornings from 9:00 AM until 9:15 AM. Children should be in their classroom by 9:15 AM. Please remember our tardy bell rings at 9:15 AM. Students arriving at school after 9:15 AM should be accompanied into the office by a parent or guardian. 

Thank you, in advance, for treating our staff members monitoring Kiss N’ Ride with respect. Kiss n’ Ride is offered as a courtesy to our parents and these staff members make it possible to offer this service. Thank you for working collaboratively with us to keep students and staff safe.

  • Kiss and Ride

    • Drop off time - between 9:00 and 9:10 AM

    • All students need to be in class by 9:15 AM (tardy bell)

    • Pick up time – 4:00 PM

  • Walkers – are encouraged to walk in pairs or groups home for safety reasons

 

The whole school came together for our first closing circle of the year.  It was a beautiful day and a great way to end the week!

 

5. Wednesday Envelope

Please read over the contents of the envelope carefully. Inside you will find valuable information and forms which need to be returned to school. The Wednesday Envelope is our communication link with you. The Wednesday Envelope is a bright yellow envelope that students will take home every Wednesday. In the envelope you will find fliers, schoolwork samples and other school communications. Parents are asked to remove and read the contents, sign the front of the envelope, and help students remember to return it to school the next day.  

 

6. Advanced Academic Program Parent Coffee Session

A parent coffee will be held in the library on Monday, September 30th from 9:30 until 10:30 AM. Brittany Wade, AART, will provide an overview about the continuum of Advanced Academic services (levels I through IV) and also briefly review the screening process for Advanced Academic services. Please note a separate parent information meeting will be held in late October specifically for the screening process for full time (level IV) services for parents of students in grades 2 through 6. 

Please RSVP by September 23 to the parent coffee by signing up at this link.

If your child is new to Fairfax County in grades 3-6 and you want your child screened for full time level IV advanced services, the fall deadline is October 15th, 2024. 

Please contact Brittany Wade with questions at [email protected].

     

7. Positivity Project at Virginia Run 

This week, our school community will focus on the character strength of Curiosity. Curiosity means you like exploration and discovery. You ask lots of questions because you want to learn more about anything and everything.

Curiosity is essential to our character, driving our desire for wisdom and knowledge. It keeps us engaged in stories and encourages us to try new activities or travel. Everyone experiences curiosity differently — behaviorally, intellectually, and emotionally.

People with strong curiosity are more likely to ask questions and try new things. Curiosity is a form of courage because asking questions shows we don't know something, and trying new activities risks failure. However, it's through questions and exploration that we learn and grow.

To practice and encourage the Other People Mindset at home, please visit the Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families.

 

8. Birthday Celebrations

More and more of our students are diagnosed with severe food allergies, and many of our parents/guardians want to limit their children’s intake of sweets. For this reason, if parents want to send in a treat for their child’s birthday, we prefer it be a non-food treat to share with his/her classmates. 

 

9. Breakfast/Lunch

Breakfast is served at VRES. Students will be able to pick up a “Grab and Go” breakfast for $1.75. Students on free or reduced meals receive breakfast for free. The price for a school lunch will be $3.25 including milk. Milk may be purchased separately and costs $.75. 

You may send in cash or a check made payable to Virginia Run Food Service  in an envelope with your child’s name and teacher name. Money can be added to the account at any time during the year. You may also pay for your child’s breakfast/lunch with credit/debit card or electronic check online only at www.myschoolbucks.com.   

 

10. Free and Reduced Application

Qualifying families can apply for free and reduced prices. Please use the link below to apply online.    

https://www.fcps.edu/resources/student-safety-and-wellness/food-and-nutrition-programs/free-and-reduced-price-meals

 

11. Virginia Run After-school Form for Elementary Early Release Mondays

The Early Release Mondays planned throughout the school year for elementary schools are essential to allow educators time for planning and professional development.  Students will be dismissed 3 hours early seven times throughout the school year and are encouraged to return home via their normal route.  However, we understand there may be a childcare hardship because of the early release Mondays for many of our families.  To resolve these concerns, student supervision will be available for families who need it. 

The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year:

  • September 23

  • October 28

  • December 9 (The previous November 25 date is on the Monday prior to Thanksgiving Break. The FCPS Early Release Monday Steering Committee decided that date should move to December 9 and this was recently approved)

  • February 24

  • March 17

  • April 28

  • May 19

To help plan for our school’s childcare needs during the early release Mondays, please complete this form: https://forms.gle/QaKhRNnA4RW9oQeC7 for each of your children who are enrolled at Virginia Run Elementary. The form covers the first two early release Mondays, scheduled for September 23, 2024 and October 28, 2024. If you have multiple children, you will need to submit multiple forms. Staff will confirm the after school supervision plan for each student.

 

12. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Students and staff greatly appreciate the support we receive from the PTA. All parents are encouraged to join the PTA and help make the 2024-2025 school year successful for all students.

PTA Board for 2024-2025:

President: Christina Minogue

Treasurer: Matthew Reklau

Secretary: Laura McAndrews

VP of Fundraising: Amanda Prindle

VP of Education: Kimberly Wilson

VP of Social: Cara Priester

To stay informed regarding all upcoming PTA activities, visit the PTA website at https://vrespta.ptboard.com/.

If you would like to reach the Board, please email [email protected].

 

13. PTA Meeting Dates for 2024-2025

PTA Meeting Dates for the 2024-2025 school year. Meetings start at 7:00 PM.

9/10- Meet and Greet in the Virginia Run Lobby

10/8- General Meeting

11/12 – General Meeting

2/11 – General Meeting

3/11 – General Meeting

4/8 – General Meeting

5/13- General Meeting

 

14. El Fresco Restaurant Day!

Our first Spirit Day will be held on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at El Fresco Restaurant in Centreville, 6005 Centreville Crest Lane. Order for dining in, pick-up, or delivery ALL DAY! 15% of the proceeds will be donated to the VRES PTA.

**Mention VRES Spirit in “Special Instructions” when ordering online.

www.elfresco.com

El Fresco Restaurant Day Flyer

 

15. Here Comes the Bus Mobile App 

Welcome to Here Comes the Bus! Know when your bus is approaching your stop. Here Comes the Bus® app is a school bus tracking app that can simplify morning and afternoon routines for parents and students by giving them real-time bus location and text or email notification alerts, helping them get to the bus stop on time. Here Comes the Bus® utilizes our GPS data and an easy-to-use customizable map that works on one or multiple devices, such as a tablet or smartphone.

How to Get Started

Using the app is EASY! You will need the FCPS school district code 28982 and a Student Information System (SIS) Parent Account. Contact Virginia Run Elementary if you do not have an SIS Parent Account. 

Please Note: If a new SIS Parent Account was created, please wait 24-48 hours before proceeding with the detailed instructions below.

From a smartphone or tablet, download (for free) the Here Comes the Bus® app from the App Store or Google Play.

  1. Open the app.  Enter your email address associated with your SIS Parent Account.  Do Not Use the Student Login or Sign Up links.
  2. Enter FCPS school district code 28982.
  3. Enter your password associated with your SIS Parent Account.
  4. Click 'Login', just below the password field.
  5. Next, you will be prompted to validate your account.  Please click the Validation Button (the app will close). Next, log on to your email account associated with your SIS Parent Account.
  6. Please open the validation email from Synovia and click the validate account link.  (If you do not receive an email, check the junk/spam folder)  A browser window will open.  Please close the browser window and return to the Here Comes the Bus® app.
  7. Repeat the previous login steps (Steps 1-4).
  8. Enter the name of your device.
  9. Close and log back onto the Here Comes the Bus® app.
  10. Under 'Students', you should see a list of your student(s) names.
  11. Confirm the information and you are ready to begin using Here Comes the Bus®.

Once signed in, you can customize or edit features, including how the app will communicate with you, and the size and location of the notification radius around your child's bus stop.

Support email for parents to contact: [email protected]

 

16. Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk

This coming school year, Virginia Run will partner with Asha-Jyothi to support Virginia Run students! Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk is a fun-filled family event with foot tapping music, delicious food and a friendly course. It is a volunteer based non-profit organization dedicated to serving the needs of the underprivileged by providing access to education and health care. Asha-Jyothi partners with schools by donating 100% of all registration money from each school back to the school for its STEM needs. 

Last year the Asha-Jyothi foundation granted Deer Park Elementary School over $100,000 to recreate their STEAM Lab into Bucky's Learning Lab. Please join us in supporting this wonderful organization and our Virginia Run students.

Race Date: Sunday, September 15

Location: 4250 Fairfax Corner Avenue; Fairfax, VA 22030

Race Time: Fun Run starts at 8:00 AM and 5K starts at 8:30 AM

Price: $30 / Coupon Code "AJ4Schools" for $10 off the 5K

Register Here - Fairfax 5K, hope to see you there!

 

17. Important Upcoming Dates

8/30 & 9/2: Labor Day Break - Student Holiday

9/10: Virginia Run Back to School Night

9/23: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

9/30: AAP Overview Parent Coffee at 9:30 AM in the Library

10/3: Rosh Hashanah- Student Holiday

10/4: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

10/14: Staff Development Day - Student Holiday

10/15-10/21: VRES Book Fair

10/18: VRES Fall Festival

10/28: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

10/31: End of Quarter 1 - 2 Hour Student Release at 2:00 PM

11/1: Diwali- Student Holiday

11/4: School Planning Day- Student Holiday

11/5: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

11/11: Veterans Day- Student Holiday

11/27-11/29: Thanksgiving Break- Student Holiday

12/9: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

12/11: Winter Chorus Concert

12/23-1/3: Winter Break- Student Holiday

1/20: Martin Luther King, Jr’s Birthday- Student Holiday

1/28: End of Quarter 2

1/29: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

2/17: Washington’s Birthday and President’s Day- Student Holiday

2/24: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

3/17: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

3/28: End of Quarter 3

3/31: Eid-al-Fitr- Student Holiday

4/1: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

4/14-4/18: Spring Break- Student Holiday

4/28: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

5/19: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

5/26: Memorial Day- Student Holiday

6/11: Last Day of School- 2 Hour Student Release at 2:00 PM

View the calendar online here: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf/2024-2025-standard-school-year-calendar.pdf 

 

18. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

19. Monthly Lunch Menu

Please use this link to view the Virginia Run ES Lunch Menu.

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Weekly Message 8/21/24

GovDelivery3 weeks ago

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

School Hours: 9:15 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday School building opens for students at 9:00 AM Office: 703-988-8900 Attendance: 703-988-8989

 

August 21, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE
  1. Parent Digital Consent

  2. Back to School Night

  3. Bus Transportation

  4. Kiss ‘n Ride and Walkers

  5. Wednesday Envelope

  6. Positivity Project at Virginia Run

  7. Birthday Celebrations

  8. Breakfast/Lunch 

  9. Free and Reduced Application

  10. Virginia Run After-school Form for Elementary Early Release Mondays

  11. Does your child want to learn a musical instrument?

  12. FCPS 24-25 cell phone & accessory policy

  13. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

  14. PTA Meeting Dates

  15. Support Your Child’s Success in SIS ParentVUE

  16. FCPS Strategic Plan

  17. Elementary School Grading and Reporting

  18. Family Life Education

  19. Here Comes the Bus Mobile App

  20. Distribution of Literature and Fliers

  21. Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk

  22. Important Upcoming Dates

  23. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

 

We are so happy to welcome our Vikings back to school!

 

August 30 - September 2
Labor Day (Holiday)

Friday, August 30 and Monday, Sept. 2, are Labor Day holidays for all FCPS employees and students. Virginia legislation requires that schools opening prior to Labor Day must be closed the Friday immediately preceding Labor Day. We hope everyone takes the long weekend to celebrate a strong start to the school year and enjoy time with family and friends.

See the complete school year calendar.

  

1. Parent Digital Consent

Forms are available in the Parent Digital Consent (PDC) starting in the 2024-2025 school year. Parents should log in using their ParentVue username and password.

Available forms include:

  • Digital Resources Consent (This form is used to agree (consent) or disagree (refusal) for your student(s) to use the FCPS-approved online tools listed on the school website as part of the instructional program.)
  • School Counseling Opt-Out
  • SEL Screener Opt-Out
  • Denial of Access to Military Recruiters
  • Family Life Education Opt-Out
  • SOL Retest Permission
  • Hazel Health
  • Objection to Release of Information to Outside Organizations
  • Objection to Release of Directory Information to the Public
2. Back to School Night

Back to School Night will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. Since we do have families with children in multiple grade levels, we are offering 2 sessions with a transition in between to give families time to get to the next teacher. Session times are below:  

Session I   Grades PS, Kindergarten, 3 and 4 5:30 PM – 6:15 PM

Session II Grades 1, 2, 5 and 6   6:30 PM – 7:15 PM

 

3. Bus Transportation

Students are required to board and depart the bus assigned to the student to prevent overcrowding on buses. Any changes require permission from the transportation office. Transportation can be reached at 703-249-7000.  Please be patient with any changes or delays in the transportation schedule as some needed adjustments are made during the first week of school. (Kindergarten parents: If transported, kindergarten students must be met at the bus stop each afternoon by a parent, parent designee, or a responsible middle school or older sibling, and asked for by name at the bus door.)

Due to overcrowding issues, we do not allow students to go home on the bus with other students for a play date.  We understand sometimes an emergency case may arise where childcare plans result in your child having to get off at a different bus stop other than the one closest to your home.  In this case, please notify the office immediately. We need this information as soon as possible in order to assure correct transportation information.

Virginia Run does not make any bus transportation decisions. For all questions relating to the bus routes, stops, or times, please contact transportation at 703-249-7000.  

 

4. Kiss ‘n Ride and Walkers

Car riders must use the Kiss N’ Ride area in front of the school. For safety reasons, the side driveway (bus lane) is restricted to bus traffic in the morning and afternoon. Parents are not permitted to use the bus lane. Dropping your child off in the parking lots presents a safety hazard for students, staff, and vehicles. While in the Kiss N’ Ride Line, the students must exit the vehicle on the right-hand side.  For safety reasons and to keep the line flowing, we ask that parents do not exit their vehicle to help their child out of the car while in the Kiss N’ Ride line. 

Staff members will be on hand to assist, in the mornings from 9:00 AM until 9:15 AM. Children should be in their classroom by 9:15 AM. Please remember our tardy bell rings at 9:15 AM. Students arriving at school after 9:15 AM should be accompanied into the office by a parent or guardian. 

Thank you, in advance, for treating our staff members monitoring Kiss N’ Ride with respect. Kiss N’ Ride is offered as a courtesy to our parents and these staff members make it possible to offer this service.  Thank you for working collaboratively with us to keep students and staff safe.

  • Kiss and Ride

    • Drop off time - between 9:00 and 9:10 am

    • All students need to be in class by 9:15 am (tardy bell)

    • Pick up time – 4:00 pm

  • Walkers – are encouraged to walk in pairs or groups home for safety reasons

 

Kindergartener's on their first day of school!  Their hats read 'Hip Hip Hooray!  I had a Fun First Day of Kindergarten!'

 

5. Wednesday Envelope

Please read over the contents of the envelope carefully. Inside you will find valuable information and forms which need to be returned to school. The Wednesday Envelope is our communication link with you.  The Wednesday Envelope is a bright yellow envelope that students will take home every Wednesday. In the envelope you will find fliers, schoolwork samples and other school communications. Parents are asked to remove and read the contents, sign the front of the envelope, and help students remember to return it to school the next day.  

 

6. Positivity Project at Virginia Run 

Virginia Run is proud to be a Positivity Project school! Throughout the year students will explore 24 character strengths based on Positive Psychology. Each week, students will learn about a different character strength through videos and activities. This week, our school focus is on the Other People Mindset. 

People who have a strong “Other People Mindset” are able to build and maintain strong, positive relationships with others by consistently practicing these five Other People Mindset principles:

  1. Cheer other people on when they succeed
  2. Recognize the good in other people
  3. Remain present when giving people your attention
  4. Support others when they struggle
  5. Understand that everything you say and do affects other people

While mental health is incredibly complex, we do know that positive relationships can help people become happier, healthier, and more resilient. And, the Positivity Project believes educators have a tremendous opportunity and vital role to play in this endeavor. Our nation’s youth spend a large percentage of their time in school. By deliberately and consistently teaching students that relationships are important — and that positive relationships are cultivated through character strengths and the Other People Mindset — educators can roll back these trends and create strong citizens and leaders for our communities and countries. 

To practice and encourage the Other People Mindset at home, please visit the Positivity Project’s mobile-friendly P2 for Families.

 

7. Birthday Celebrations

More and more of our students are diagnosed with severe food allergies, and many of our parents/guardians want to limit their children’s intake of sweets. For this reason, if parents want to send in a treat for their child’s birthday, we prefer it be a non-food treat to share with his/her classmates. If a student brings in treats that are not non-food items, please call the office.

 

8. Breakfast/Lunch

Breakfast is served at VRES. Students will be able to pick up a “Grab and Go” breakfast for $1.75. Students on free or reduced meals receive breakfast for free. The price for a school lunch will be $3.25 including milk. Milk may be purchased separately and costs $.75. 

You may deposit money (Cash or Check) into your child’s lunch account during the open house visit on August 15th, or by sending cash or check made payable to Virginia Run Food Service on the first day of school in an envelope with your child’s name and teacher name. Money can be added to the account at any time during the year. You may also pay for your child’s breakfast/lunch with credit/debit card or electronic check online only at www.myschoolbucks.com.   

 

9. Free and Reduced Application

Qualifying families can apply for free and reduced prices.  Please use the link below to apply online.    

https://www.fcps.edu/resources/student-safety-and-wellness/food-and-nutrition-programs/free-and-reduced-price-meals

 

10. Virginia Run After-school Form for Elementary Early Release Mondays

The Early Release Mondays planned throughout the school year for elementary schools are essential to allow educators time for planning and professional development. Students will be dismissed 3 hours early seven times throughout the school year and are encouraged to return home via their normal route. However, we understand there may be a childcare hardship because of the early release Mondays for many of our families. To resolve these concerns, student supervision will be available for families who need it. 

The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year:

  • September 23

  • October 28

  • November 25

  • February 24

  • March 17

  • April 28

  • May 19

To help plan for our school’s childcare needs during the early release Mondays, please complete this form: https://forms.gle/QaKhRNnA4RW9oQeC7 for each of your children who are enrolled at Virginia Run Elementary. The form covers the first two early release Mondays, scheduled for September 23, 2024 and October 28, 2024. If you have multiple children, you will need to submit multiple forms. Staff will confirm the after school supervision plan for each student.

 

11. Does your child want to learn a musical instrument?

Sign them up for Band or Strings! Registrations are due by Monday, August 26th.

Click here for Band information/registration: https://forms.gle/7bVVeKZoiuxpigTZ6

Band is open to all 5th and 6th graders!

Click here for Strings information/registration : https://forms.gle/C6st4CFCRGRKVj3y6

Strings is open to all 4th, 5th, & 6th graders!

 

12. FCPS 24-25 cell phone & accessory policy

FCPS 24-25 cell phone & accessory policy has changed for all PK-12 students.  There is more information, and a feedback option for parents to submit input on the policy, through this link https://www.fcps.edu/cell-phone-policy, the purpose of the policy is explained in detail on this link.

FCPS students are provided with technology for academic use during the school day (laptop or ipad depending on grade level.)  Elementary students are not permitted to access their personal devices at any time during the school day. Therefore, all personal devices such as phones must be silenced and put away and connected devices accessories such as headphones must be turned off for the duration of school day. If a student has a smart watch, it must be set to airplane or school mode. Students may not use their phones during the school day without specific permission from a school administrator.

Teachers will not confiscate phones/accessories but will direct students to turn off the device and put it in their backpack.  The staff member will also inform Virginia Run administrators of the policy violation and parents will be contacted.  Repeated violation of policy may result in a discipline entry in the student’s record. 

 

13. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Students and staff greatly appreciate the support we receive from the PTA. All parents are encouraged to join the PTA and help make the 2024-2025 school year successful for all students.

PTA Board for 2024-2025:

President: Christina Minogue

Treasurer: Matthew Reklau

Secretary: Laura McAndrews

VP of Fundraising: Amanda Prindle

VP of Education: Kimberly Wilson

VP of Social: Cara Priester

To stay informed regarding all upcoming PTA activities, visit the PTA website at https://vrespta.ptboard.com/.

If you would like to reach the Board, please email [email protected].

 

14. PTA Meeting Dates for 2024-2025

PTA Meeting Dates for the 2024-2025 school year. Meetings start at 7:00 PM.

9/10- Meet and Greet in the Virginia Run Lobby

10/8- General Meeting

11/12 – General Meeting

2/11 – General Meeting

3/11 – General Meeting

4/8 – General Meeting

5/13- General Meeting

 

15. Support Your Child’s Success in SIS ParentVUE

Signing up for a SIS ParentVUE account helps you to support your child’s academic success. Caregivers can view important information in ParentVUE such as attendance, grades, progress reports, and assessment scores. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. A SIS ParentVUE app is available for Apple and Android devices. 

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video explains the steps. Find out more. To create a new account, please contact our school registrar, Betty Bancroft at [email protected] for an activation letter. 

If you already have an account, be sure your contact information is up-to-date. Parents/guardians can update their phone numbers or email addresses in the Parent/Guardian section. View more information

 

16. FCPS Strategic Plan

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan continues to guide FCPS with a focus on excellence, equity, and opportunity for each and every student. See 2023-30 Strategic Plan webpage

  • Successful completion of Algebra I by eighth grade is one of the measures for Goal 3 (academic growth and excellence) of the strategic plan.
  • Students reading on grade level by the end of third grade is another measure of our progress in fostering academic growth and excellence for all students. This measure is supported through FCPS’ Equitable Access to Literacy (EAL) Plan. 

See the EAL Plan webpage.

 

17. Elementary School Grading and Reporting

FCPS is committed to being a responsive, caring, and inclusive culture where all feel valued, supported, and hopeful. Research tells us that a sense of hope and a sense of belonging are important to student learning. As we look toward the 2024-25 school year, we remain committed to fostering a responsive, caring, and inclusive culture where all feel valued, supported, and hopeful. 

Student progress is evaluated every quarter.  At the elementary level, the effort and academics are reported separately so the parents know the effort of the student as well as understanding of specific skills. Individualized comments are an important part of parent communication on the report card.

The progress report will:

  • Provide parents with comprehensive information about how their child is learning.

  • Align with the Program of Studies (POS) curriculum students are learning.

  • Provide teachers with resources to communicate a more exact and consistent assessment.

  • Provide parents with comprehensive information about how their child is learning.

  • Incorporate research-based best practices in student grading and reporting.

  • Report Life, Work, and Citizenship skills separately from academic achievement.

To view a copy of our FCPS progress report, please click on the link below:

https://www.fcps.edu/academics/grading-and-reporting/elementary-school

 

18. Family Life Education

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) offers a comprehensive Family Life Education (FLE) program. FLE instruction begins in kindergarten and continues through grade 12. FLE includes topics in human growth and development and social and emotional health. FLE instruction helps students gain knowledge and skills needed to make healthy, responsible, and life-enhancing decisions related to relationships and their physical, emotional, and social health. Parents and guardians are partners in their child’s learning. FLE instruction supports the development of strong families, positive relationships, and a healthy community.

Parents and guardians can review FLE materials. Parents/guardians can access FLE lessons in Schoology using their SIS username and password. Due to copyright permissions, we are unable to stream all media titles online. Lessons and media are available for review at your child’s school. Lessons only are also available at the City of Fairfax Regional Library (this location does not have media).

To foster respect for family choices, parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of all or part of the Family Life Education program. A student who is opted out will receive alternative health instruction. To opt your child out of all or part of the FLE program for this school year, please complete the opt-out form. Return the completed form to your child’s school before FLE instruction begins. The opt-out form is available online. You do not need to return the form to the school if you wish for your child to take part in FLE instruction.

FLE program descriptions and opt-out forms are available on the FCPS website.

19. Here Comes the Bus Mobile App 

Welcome to Here Comes the Bus! Know when your bus is approaching your stop. Here Comes the Bus® app is a school bus tracking app that can simplify morning and afternoon routines for parents and students by giving them real-time bus location and text or email notification alerts, helping them get to the bus stop on time. Here Comes the Bus® utilizes our GPS data and an easy-to-use customizable map that works on one or multiple devices, such as a tablet or smartphone.

How to Get Started

Using the app is EASY! You will need the FCPS school district code 28982 and a Student Information System (SIS) Parent Account. Contact Virginia Run Elementary if you do not have an SIS Parent Account. 

Please Note: If a new SIS Parent Account was created, please wait 24-48 hours before proceeding with the detailed instructions below.

From a smartphone or tablet, download (for free) the Here Comes the Bus® app from the App Store or Google Play.

  1. Open the app.  Enter your email address associated with your SIS Parent Account.  Do Not Use the Student Login or Sign Up links.
  2. Enter FCPS school district code 28982.
  3. Enter your password associated with your SIS Parent Account.
  4. Click 'Login', just below the password field.
  5. Next, you will be prompted to validate your account.  Please click the Validation Button (the app will close). Next, log on to your email account associated with your SIS Parent Account.
  6. Please open the validation email from Synovia and click the validate account link.  (If you do not receive an email, check the junk/spam folder)  A browser window will open.  Please close the browser window and return to the Here Comes the Bus® app.
  7. Repeat the previous login steps (Steps 1-4).
  8. Enter the name of your device.
  9. Close and log back onto the Here Comes the Bus® app.
  10. Under 'Students', you should see a list of your student(s) names.
  11. Confirm the information and you are ready to begin using Here Comes the Bus®.

Once signed in, you can customize or edit features, including how the app will communicate with you, and the size and location of the notification radius around your child's bus stop.

Support email for parents to contact: [email protected]

 

20. Distribution of Literature and Fliers

To protect our children from becoming little advertisers and mail carriers, FCPS has clearly described the situation under which children may carry announcements home to parents. (Regulation 1367.1) Students may only carry fliers consistent with the mission of the school: education and the welfare of children. All nonprofit organizations are eligible to submit fliers in accordance with the guidelines below. Charitable solicitations, partisan political organizations, and commercial or profit-making enterprises are excluded with the exception of school-business partnerships and events. Students may not carry advertisements. Non-profit organizations such as the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts may only use the backpack system at designated times during the year. The fliers must be representative of something appropriate to the children and not violate any rules of decency, political campaigning, or marketing. These designated times are set by the school principal. 

At Virginia Run Elementary, the four dates that Wednesday envelopes may be used for carrying announcements from non-profit organizations are:

September 11th

January 8th

March 5th

May 8th

**All announcements/fliers must carry the following disclaimer:

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

All announcements/fliers must be approved by the administration in advance, allowing at least 3 days turn-around time. Upon receiving approval, the organization is responsible for supplying the copies to the school by the Monday preceding the designated envelope. PTA materials and announcements must also be approved in advance, but are not restricted to, the four dates listed. No materials carried by children may promote improper behavior or political opinion.

 

21. Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk

This coming school year, Virginia Run will partner with Asha-Jyothi to support Virginia Run students! Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk is a fun-filled family event with foot tapping music, delicious food and a friendly course. It is a volunteer based non-profit organization dedicated to serving the needs of the underprivileged by providing access to education and health care. Asha-Jyothi partners with schools by donating 100% of all registration money from each school back to the school for its STEM needs. 

Last year the Asha-Jyothi foundation granted Deer Park Elementary School over $100,000 to recreate their STEAM Lab into Bucky's Learning Lab. Please join us in supporting this wonderful organization and our Virginia Run students.

Race Date: Sunday, September 15 Location: 4250 Fairfax Corner Avenue; Fairfax, VA 22030 Race Time: Fun Run starts at 8:00 AM and 5K starts at 8:30 AM Price: $30 / Coupon Code "AJ4Schools" for $10 off the 5K

Register Here - Fairfax 5K, hope to see you there!

 

22. Important Upcoming Dates

8/30 & 9/2: Labor Day Break - Student Holiday

9/10: Virginia Run Back to School Night

9/23: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

10/3: Rosh Hashanah- Student Holiday

10/4: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

10/14: Staff Development Day - Student Holiday

10/15-10/21: VRES Book Fair

10/18: VRES Fall Festival

10/28: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

10/31: End of Quarter 1 - 2 Hour Student Release at 2:00 PM

11/1: Diwali- Student Holiday

11/4: School Planning Day- Student Holiday

11/5: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

11/11: Veterans Day- Student Holiday

11/25: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

11/27-11/29: Thanksgiving Break- Student Holiday

12/23-1/3: Winter Break- Student Holiday

1/20: Martin Luther King, Jr’s Birthday- Student Holiday

1/28: End of Quarter 2

1/29: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

2/17: Washington’s Birthday and President’s Day- Student Holiday

2/24: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

3/17: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

3/28: End of Quarter 3

3/31: Eid-al-Fitr- Student Holiday

4/1: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

4/14-4/18: Spring Break- Student Holiday

4/28: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

5/19: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

5/26: Memorial Day- Student Holiday

6/11: Last Day of School- 2 Hour Student Release at 2:00 PM

View the calendar online here: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf/2024-2025-standard-school-year-calendar.pdf 

 

23. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Weekly Message 8/13/24

GovDelivery4 weeks 1 day ago

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

School Hours: 9:15 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday School building opens for students at 9:00 AM Office: 703-988-8900 Attendance: 703-988-8989

 

August 13, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE
  1. Welcome Back Message with Important Dates

  2. Welcome Walk

  3. Open House/Supply Pick-up/Drop Off 

  4. Popsicles on the Playground Back-to-School Social

  5. Back to School Night

  6. Bus Transportation

  7. Kiss ‘n Ride and Walkers

  8. Attention Kindergarten Parents

  9. Wednesday Envelope

  10. Breakfast/Lunch 

  11. Free and Reduced Application

  12. Limited Early Release Mondays for 2024-25 School Year

  13. Parent Digital Consent

  14. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

  15. PTA Meeting Dates

  16. Support Your Child’s Success in SIS ParentVUE

  17. FCPS Strategic Plan

  18. Elementary School Grading and Reporting

  19. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

  20. Family Life Education

  21. Distribution of Literature

  22. Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk

  23. Important Upcoming Dates

  24. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

1. Welcome Back Message with Important Dates

Dear Virginia Run Elementary School Community,

Welcome back to another exciting school year at Virginia Run Elementary! We hope you've all had a wonderful summer filled with relaxation, fun, and memorable moments with family and friends. As we prepare to embark on the 2024-25 academic year, Lauren, Nick, and I want to extend a warm welcome to both our returning students and families, as well as those who are new to our school community.

We have several important events lined up to kick off the school year:

Virginia Run Welcome Walk

  • Date: August 15
  • Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Virginia Run Open House

  • Date: August 15
  • Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Stone Middle School Open House

  • Date: August 15
  • Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Westfield High School Open House

  • Date: August 15
  • Time: 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

FCPS First Day of School

  • Date: August 19

Virginia Run Back to School Night

  • Date: September 10
  • Session I     Grades PS, Kindergarten, 3 and 4     5:30 PM – 6:15 PM
  • Session II    Grades 1, 2, 5 and 6                           6:30 PM – 7:15 PM

These events are fantastic opportunities for students and parents to meet teachers, tour the school, and get prepared for the new school year. Our dedicated staff is eager to welcome everyone back and ensure a smooth transition into the academic routine.

As always, communication between home and school is essential for the success of our students. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns throughout the year. Together, we can make this a fulfilling and productive year for every student at Virginia Run Elementary.

Here's to a fantastic year ahead!

Our best,

Dave Gerstner, Principal 

Lauren Arreaza, Assistant Principal

Nick Rousos, Assistant Principal

 

2. Welcome Walk

We are excited to host our Welcome Walk on Thursday, August 15 from 9:00 AM - 12 PM. Your child will meet their teacher for the new school year when the teacher drops by your home for a brief “door visit” to introduce themselves and welcome your family. 

If you are not home during the Welcome Walk, the teachers will leave a door hanger that contains the teacher assignment and room number. Please call the school by 4:00 PM on Tuesday, August 13th if you will not be home and do not want the hanger left on your door. 

 

3. Open House/Supply Pickup/Drop Off

Students can bring their school supplies and visit their classrooms for the first time on Thursday, August 15 from 2:00 - 3:00 PM. All pre-ordered school supplies will be in the classrooms for those families who ordered them in the spring. If you did not pre-order supplies, supply lists are available on the school website and in the front office. If you did not receive your child’s “First Day Packet” during the Welcome Walk, these packets will be available during the Open House Visit. If you do not receive the packet that day, it will be sent home with your child the first day of school. 

During 2:00 - 3:00 PM on August 15, you will also be able to drop off medication at the school clinic, sign up for a SIS ParentVUE account, and put money on your child’s lunch account.  

 

4. Popsicles on the Playground Back-to-School Social

The PTA will be hosting a “Popsicles on the Playground” Back-to-School Social on Thursday, August 15 on the blacktop from 2:00- 3:30 PM. Students can hang out with friends, meet new ones, and enjoy a popsicle sponsored by the PTA. You can also enter into a raffle to win a FREE birthday party from Bach to Rock!   We hope to see you there!

 

5. Back to School Night

Back to School Night will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2024.  Since we do have families with children in multiple grade levels, we are offering 2 sessions with a transition in between to give families time to get to the next teacher.  Session times are below:  

Session I   Grades PS, Kindergarten, 3 and 4 5:30 PM – 6:15 PM

Session II Grades 1, 2, 5 and 6   6:30 PM – 7:15 PM

 

6. Bus Transportation

You will receive the schedule of bus routes from your child’s teacher during the Welcome Walk.  Please note that some bus routes may have changed since last year. Review the route and number with your child so they board the correct bus. Please report to the bus stop five minutes before the listed time. 

Students are required to board and depart the bus assigned to the student to prevent overcrowding on buses. Any changes require permission from the transportation office. Transportation can be reached at 703-249-7000.  Please be patient with any changes or delays in the transportation schedule as some needed adjustments are made during the first week of school. (Kindergarten parents: If transported, kindergarten students must be met at the bus stop each afternoon by a parent, parent designee, or a responsible middle school or older sibling, and asked for by name at the bus door.)

Due to overcrowding issues, we do not allow students to go home on the bus with other students for a play date.  We understand sometimes an emergency case may arise where childcare plans result in your child having to get off at a different bus stop other than the one closest to your home.  In this case, please notify the office immediately. We need this information as soon as possible in order to assure correct transportation information.

Virginia Run does not make any bus transportation decisions.  For all questions relating to the bus routes, stops, or times, please contact transportation at 703-249-7000.  

 

7. Kiss ‘n Ride and Walkers

Car riders must use the Kiss N’ Ride area in front of the school. For safety reasons, the side driveway (bus lane) is restricted to bus traffic in the morning and afternoon. Parents are not permitted to use the bus lane. Dropping your child off in the parking lots presents a safety hazard for students, staff, and vehicles. While in the Kiss N’ Ride Line, the students must exit the vehicle on the right-hand side.  For safety reasons and to keep the line flowing, we ask that parents do not exit their vehicle to help their child out of the car while in the Kiss N’ Ride line. 

Staff members will be on hand to assist, in the mornings from 9:00 AM until 9:15 AM. Children should be in their classroom by 9:15 AM. Please remember our tardy bell rings at 9:15 AM. Students arriving at school after 9:15 AM should be accompanied into the office by a parent or guardian. 

Thank you, in advance, for treating our staff members monitoring Kiss N’ Ride with respect. Kiss N’ Ride is offered as a courtesy to our parents and these staff members make it possible to offer this service.  Thank you for working collaboratively with us to keep students and staff safe.

  • Kiss and Ride

    • Drop off time - between 9:00 and 9:10 am

    • All students need to be in class by 9:15 am (tardy bell)

    • Pick up time – 4:00 pm

  • Walkers – are encouraged to walk in pairs or groups home for safety reasons

 

8. Attention Kindergarten Parents

According to Transportation Services, the bus driver will return your kindergartener to their school if your child is not met at the door of the school bus by a parent, a guardian/caregiver, or a sibling who is middle school age or older and asked for by name.

 

9. Wednesday Envelope

Please read over the contents of the envelope carefully. Inside you will find valuable information and forms which need to be returned to school. The Wednesday Envelope is our communication link with you.  The Wednesday Envelope is a bright yellow envelope that students will take home every Wednesday. In the envelope you will find fliers, schoolwork samples and other school communications. Parents are asked to remove and read the contents, sign the front of the envelope, and help students remember to return it to school the next day.  

 

10. Breakfast/Lunch

Breakfast is served at VRES. Students will be able to pick up a “Grab and Go” breakfast for $1.75. Students on free or reduced meals receive breakfast for free. The price for a school lunch will be $3.25 including milk. Milk may be purchased separately and costs $.60. 

You may deposit money (Cash or Check) into your child’s lunch account during the open house visit on August 15th, or by sending cash or check made payable to Virginia Run Food Service on the first day of school in an envelope with your child’s name and teacher name. Money can be added to the account at any time during the year. You may also pay for your child’s breakfast/lunch with credit/debit card or electronic check online only at www.myschoolbucks.com.   

 

11. Free and Reduced Application

Qualifying families can apply for free and reduced prices.  Please use the link below to apply online.    

https://www.fcps.edu/resources/student-safety-and-wellness/food-and-nutrition-programs/free-and-reduced-price-meals

 

12. Limited Early Release Mondays for 2024-25 School Year 

We are eagerly preparing for the 2024-2025 school year and can't wait to see what it holds for our Virginia Run community.

As you may have heard, the Virginia Literacy Act requires Elementary Teachers (classroom, special education, and ESOL) to complete approximately 27 hours of training focused on the Science of Reading and evidence-based literacy during the 2024-2025 school year. As a result, Fairfax County Public Schools has planned seven early release Mondays starting in September. 

Please note the dates and times for your calendars listed below. 

Virginia Run Elementary will release students at 1:00 PM. on the following days:

  • September 23
  • October 28
  • November 25
  • February 24
  • March 17
  • April 28
  • May 19

To support our families, FCPS has created a webpage with detailed information about the early release Mondays. We encourage you to visit this page for any additional information you may need.  

 

13. Parent Digital Consent

Forms are available in the Parent Digital Consent (PDC) starting in the 2024-2025 school year. Parents should log in using their ParentVue username and password.

Available forms include:

  • Digital Resources Consent (This form is used to agree (consent) or disagree (refusal) for your student(s) to use the FCPS-approved online tools listed on the school website as part of the instructional program.)
  • School Counseling Opt-Out
  • SEL Screener Opt-Out
  • Denial of Access to Military Recruiters
  • Family Life Education Opt-Out
  • SOL Retest Permission
  • Hazel Health
  • Objection to Release of Information to Outside Organizations
  • Objection to Release of Directory Information to the Public

 

14. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Students and staff greatly appreciate the support we receive from the PTA. All parents are encouraged to join the PTA and help make the 2024-2025 school year successful for all students.

PTA Board for 2024-2025:

President: Christina Minogue

Treasurer: Matthew Reklau

Secretary: Laura McAndrews

VP of Fundraising: Amanda Prindle

VP of Education: Kimberly Wilson

VP of Social: Cara Priester

To stay informed regarding all upcoming PTA activities, visit the PTA website at https://vrespta.ptboard.com/.

If you would like to reach the Board, please email [email protected].

 

15. PTA Meeting Dates for 2024-2025

PTA Meeting Dates for the 2024-2025 school year. Meetings start at 7:00 PM.

9/10- Meet and Greet in the Virginia Run Lobby

10/8- General Meeting

11/12 – General Meeting

2/11 – General Meeting

3/11 – General Meeting

4/8 – General Meeting

5/12- General Meeting

 

16. Support Your Child’s Success in SIS ParentVUE

Signing up for a SIS ParentVUE account helps you to support your child’s academic success. Caregivers can view important information in ParentVUE such as attendance, grades, progress reports, and assessment scores. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. A SIS ParentVUE app is available for Apple and Android devices. 

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video explains the steps. Find out more. To create a new account, please contact our school registrar, Betty Bancroft at [email protected] for an activation letter. 

If you already have an account, be sure your contact information is up-to-date. Parents/guardians can update their phone numbers or email addresses in the Parent/Guardian section. View more information

 

17. FCPS Strategic Plan

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan continues to guide FCPS with a focus on excellence, equity, and opportunity for each and every student. See 2023-30 Strategic Plan webpage

  • Successful completion of Algebra I by eighth grade is one of the measures for Goal 3 (academic growth and excellence) of the strategic plan.
  • Students reading on grade level by the end of third grade is another measure of our progress in fostering academic growth and excellence for all students. This measure is supported through FCPS’ Equitable Access to Literacy (EAL) Plan. 

See the EAL Plan webpage.

 

18. Elementary School Grading and Reporting

FCPS is committed to being a responsive, caring, and inclusive culture where all feel valued, supported, and hopeful. Research tells us that a sense of hope and a sense of belonging are important to student learning. As we look toward the 2024-25 school year, we remain committed to fostering a responsive, caring, and inclusive culture where all feel valued, supported, and hopeful. 

Student progress is evaluated every quarter.  At the elementary level, the effort and academics are reported separately so the parents know the effort of the student as well as understanding of specific skills. Individualized comments are an important part of parent communication on the report card.

The progress report will:

  • Provide parents with comprehensive information about how their child is learning.

  • Align with the Program of Studies (POS) curriculum students are learning.

  • Provide teachers with resources to communicate a more exact and consistent assessment.

  • Provide parents with comprehensive information about how their child is learning.

  • Incorporate research-based best practices in student grading and reporting.

  • Report Life, Work, and Citizenship skills separately from academic achievement.

To view a copy of our FCPS progress report, please click on the link below:

https://www.fcps.edu/academics/grading-and-reporting/elementary-school

 

19. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

Calling All New Vikings!

Virginia law requires that all children who will be 5 years old on or before September 30, 2024, must be enrolled in kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year.  If you do not wish your child to attend school until the following year, you must notify the school in writing. 

If you have a child who will attend Virginia Run Elementary next year, please contact Betty Bancroft to register. This will allow accurate numbers for staffing and classes next year!

Register your child by:

For more information on registration requirements please visit https://www.fcps.edu/registration/kindergarten-registration

General kindergarten information can be found at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-school-academics-k-6/kindergarten

Please spread the word to your neighbors who have children attending Virginia Run ES.

 

20. Family Life Education

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) offers a comprehensive Family Life Education (FLE) program. FLE instruction begins in kindergarten and continues through grade 12. FLE includes topics in human growth and development and social and emotional health. FLE instruction helps students gain knowledge and skills needed to make healthy, responsible, and life-enhancing decisions related to relationships and their physical, emotional, and social health. Parents and guardians are partners in their child’s learning. FLE instruction supports the development of strong families, positive relationships, and a healthy community.

Parents and guardians can review FLE materials. Parents/guardians can access FLE lessons in Schoology using their SIS username and password. Due to copyright permissions, we are unable to stream all media titles online. Lessons and media are available for review at your child’s school. Lessons only are also available at the City of Fairfax Regional Library (this location does not have media).

To foster respect for family choices, parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of all or part of the Family Life Education program. A student who is opted out will receive alternative health instruction. To opt your child out of all or part of the FLE program for this school year, please complete the opt-out form. Return the completed form to your child’s school before FLE instruction begins. The opt-out form is available online. You do not need to return the form to the school if you wish for your child to take part in FLE instruction.

FLE program descriptions and opt-out forms are available on the FCPS website.

21. Distribution of Literature and Fliers

To protect our children from becoming little advertisers and mail carriers, FCPS has clearly described the situation under which children may carry announcements home to parents. (Regulation 1367.1) Students may only carry fliers consistent with the mission of the school: education and the welfare of children. All nonprofit organizations are eligible to submit fliers in accordance with the guidelines below. Charitable solicitations, partisan political organizations, and commercial or profit-making enterprises are excluded with the exception of school-business partnerships and events. Students may not carry advertisements. Non-profit organizations such as the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts may only use the backpack system at designated times during the year. The fliers must be representative of something appropriate to the children and not violate any rules of decency, political campaigning, or marketing. These designated times are set by the school principal. 

At Virginia Run Elementary, the four dates that Wednesday envelopes may be used for carrying announcements from non-profit organizations are:

September 11th

January 8th

March 5th

May 8th

**All announcements/fliers must carry the following disclaimer:

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

All announcements/fliers must be approved by the administration in advance, allowing at least 3 days turn-around time. Upon receiving approval, the organization is responsible for supplying the copies to the school by the Monday preceding the designated envelope. PTA materials and announcements must also be approved in advance, but are not restricted to, the four dates listed. No materials carried by children may promote improper behavior or political opinion.

 

22. Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk

This coming school year, Virginia Run will partner with Asha-Jyothi to support Virginia Run students! Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk is a fun-filled family event with foot tapping music, delicious food and a friendly course. It is a volunteer based non-profit organization dedicated to serving the needs of the underprivileged by providing access to education and health care. Asha-Jyothi partners with schools by donating 100% of all registration money from each school back to the school for its STEM needs. 

Last year the Asha-Jyothi foundation granted Deer Park Elementary School over $100,000 to recreate their STEAM Lab into Bucky's Learning Lab. Please join us in supporting this wonderful organization and our Virginia Run students.

Race Date: Sunday, September 15 Location: 4250 Fairfax Corner Avenue; Fairfax, VA 22030 Race Time: Fun Run starts at 8:00 AM and 5K starts at 8:30 AM Price: $30 / Coupon Code "AJ4Schools" for $10 off the 5K

Register Here - Fairfax 5K, hope to see you there!

 

23. Important Upcoming Dates

8/15: Virginia Run Welcome Walk, 9 AM-12 PM

8/15: Virginia Run Open House, 2 PM - 3 PM

8/15: Stone Open House, 3 PM - 4 PM

8/15: Westfield Open House, 5 PM - 7:30 PM 

8/19: First day of school

8/30 & 9/2: Labor Day Break - Student Holiday

9/10: Virginia Run Back to School Night

9/23: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

10/3: Rosh Hashanah- Student Holiday

10/4: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

10/14: Staff Development Day- Student Holiday

10/28: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

10/31: End of Quarter 1 - 2 Hour Student Release at 2:00 PM

11/1: Diwali- Student Holiday

11/4: School Planning Day- Student Holiday

11/5: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

11/11: Veterans Day- Student Holiday

11/25: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

11/27-11/29: Thanksgiving Break- Student Holiday

12/23-1/3: Winter Break- Student Holiday

1/20: Martin Luther King, Jr’s Birthday- Student Holiday

1/28: End of Quarter 2

1/29: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

2/17: Washington’s Birthday and President’s Day- Student Holiday

2/24: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

3/17: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

3/28: End of Quarter 3

3/31: Eid-al-Fitr- Student Holiday

4/1: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

4/14-4/18: Spring Break- Student Holiday

4/28: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

5/19: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

5/26: Memorial Day- Student Holiday

6/11: Last Day of School- 2 Hour Student Release at 2:00 PM

View the calendar online here: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf/2024-2025-standard-school-year-calendar.pdf 

 

24. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Weekly Message 8/7/24

GovDelivery1 month ago

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

August 7, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE
  1. Welcome Back Message with Important Dates

  2. Welcome Walk

  3. Open House/Supply Pickup/Drop Off 

  4. Popsicles on the Playground Back-to-School Social

  5. Limited Early Release Mondays for 2024-25 School Year

  6. PTA Meeting Dates

  7. Support Your Child’s Success in SIS ParentVUE

  8. FCPS Strategic Plan

  9. Elementary School Grading and Reporting

  10. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

  11. Family Life Education
  12. Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk

  13. Important Upcoming Dates

  14. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

1. Welcome Back Message with Important Dates

Dear Virginia Run Elementary School Community,

Welcome back to another exciting school year at Virginia Run Elementary! We hope you've all had a wonderful summer filled with relaxation, fun, and memorable moments with family and friends. As we prepare to embark on the 2024-25 academic year, Lauren, Nick, and I want to extend a warm welcome to both our returning students and families, as well as those who are new to our school community.

We would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dustin Lee, 6th grade VRES teacher, who has recently accepted the position of School Based Technology Specialist at Burke Alternative Learning Center. Dustin has been a tremendous asset to our 6th-grade team and has supported both our students and staff with unwavering dedication. While we will miss him dearly, we wish him the very best as he embarks on this new journey.

In light of Dustin's departure, we are thrilled to announce that Cara Priester has accepted the position of grade 6 Teacher effective August 12, 2024. Cara comes to us with a wealth of experience and enthusiasm, and we know she will be a wonderful addition to our team. Please join us in giving her a warm Virginia Run welcome!

We have several important events lined up to kick off the school year:

Virginia Run Welcome Walk

  • Date: August 15
  • Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Virginia Run Open House

  • Date: August 15
  • Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Stone Middle School Open House

  • Date: August 15
  • Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Westfield High School Open House

  • Date: August 15
  • Time: 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

FCPS First Day of School

  • Date: August 19

Virginia Run Back to School Night

  • Date: September 10
  • Session I     Grades PS, Kindergarten, 3 and 4     5:30 PM – 6:15 PM
  • Session II    Grades 1, 2, 5 and 6                           6:30 PM – 7:15 PM

These events are fantastic opportunities for students and parents to meet teachers, tour the school, and get prepared for the new school year. Our dedicated staff is eager to welcome everyone back and ensure a smooth transition into the academic routine.

As always, communication between home and school is essential for the success of our students. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns throughout the year. Together, we can make this a fulfilling and productive year for every student at Virginia Run Elementary.

Here's to a fantastic year ahead!

Our best,

Dave Gerstner, Principal 

Lauren Arreaza, Assistant Principal

Nick Rousos, Assistant Principal

 

2. Welcome Walk

We are excited to host our Welcome Walk on Thursday, August 15 from 9:00 AM- 12 PM. Your child will meet their teacher for the new school year when the teacher drops by your home for a brief “door visit” to introduce themselves and welcome your family. 

If you are not home during the Welcome Walk, the teachers will leave a door hanger that contains the teacher assignment and room number. Please call the school by 4:00 PM on Tuesday, August 13th if you will not be home and do not want the hanger left on your door. 

 

3. Open House/Supply Pickup/Drop Off

Students can bring their school supplies and visit their classrooms for the first time on Thursday, August 15 from 2:00-3:00 PM. All pre-ordered school supplies will be in the classrooms for those families who ordered them in the spring. If you did not pre-order supplies, supply lists are available on the school website and in the front office. If you did not receive your child’s “First Day Packet” during the Welcome Walk, these packets will be available during the Open House Visit. If you do not receive the packet that day, it will be sent home with your child the first day of school. 

During 2:00-3:00PM on August 15, you will also be able to drop off medication at the school clinic, sign up for a SIS ParentVUE account, and put money on your child’s lunch account.  

 

4. Popsicles on the Playground Back-to-School Social

The PTA will be hosting a “Popsicles on the Playground” Back-to-School Social on Thursday, August 15 on the blacktop from 2:00-3:30.  Students can hang out with friends, meet new ones, and enjoy a popsicle sponsored by the PTA.  You can also enter into a raffle to win a FREE birthday party from Bach to Rock!   We hope to see you there!

 

5. Limited Early Release Mondays for 2024-25 School Year 

We are eagerly preparing for the 2024-2025 school year and can't wait to see what it holds for our Virginia Run community.

As you may have heard, the Virginia Literacy Act requires Elementary Teachers (classroom, special education, and ESOL) to complete approximately 27 hours of training focused on the Science of Reading and evidence-based literacy during the 2024-2025 school year. As a result, Fairfax County Public Schools has planned seven early release Mondays starting in September. 

Please note the dates and times for your calendars listed below. 

Virginia Run Elementary will release students at 1:00 PM. on the following days:

  • September 23
  • October 28
  • November 25
  • February 24
  • March 17
  • April 28
  • May 19

To support our families, FCPS has created a webpage with detailed information about the early release Mondays. We encourage you to visit this page for any additional information you may need.  

 

6. PTA Meeting Dates for 2024-2025

PTA Meeting Dates for the 2024-2025 school year. Meetings start at 7:00 PM.

9/10- Meet and Greet in the Virginia Run Lobby

10/8- General Meeting

11/12 – General Meeting

2/11 – General Meeting

3/11 – General Meeting

4/8 – General Meeting

5/12- General Meeting

 

7. Support Your Child’s Success in SIS ParentVUE

Signing up for a SIS ParentVUE account helps you to support your child’s academic success. Caregivers can view important information in ParentVUE such as attendance, grades, progress reports, and assessment scores. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. A SIS ParentVUE app is available for Apple and Android devices. 

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video explains the steps. Find out more. To create a new account, please contact our school registrar, Afkham Hosseini at [email protected] for an activation letter. 

If you already have an account, be sure your contact information is up-to-date. Parents/guardians can update their phone numbers or email addresses in the Parent/Guardian section. View more information

 

8. FCPS Strategic Plan

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan continues to guide FCPS with a focus on excellence, equity, and opportunity for each and every student. See 2023-30 Strategic Plan webpage

  • Successful completion of Algebra I by eighth grade is one of the measures for Goal 3 (academic growth and excellence) of the strategic plan.
  • Students reading on grade level by the end of third grade is another measure of our progress in fostering academic growth and excellence for all students. This measure is supported through FCPS’ Equitable Access to Literacy (EAL) Plan. 

See the EAL Plan webpage.

 

9. Elementary School Grading and Reporting

FCPS is committed to being a responsive, caring, and inclusive culture where all feel valued, supported, and hopeful. Research tells us that a sense of hope and a sense of belonging are important to student learning. As we look toward the 2024-25 school year, we remain committed to fostering a responsive, caring, and inclusive culture where all feel valued, supported, and hopeful. 

Student progress is evaluated every quarter.  At the elementary level, the effort and academics are reported separately so the parents know the effort of the student as well as understanding of specific skills. Individualized comments are an important part of parent communication on the report card.

The progress report will:

  • Provide parents with comprehensive information about how their child is learning.

  • Align with the Program of Studies (POS) curriculum students are learning.

  • Provide teachers with resources to communicate a more exact and consistent assessment.

  • Provide parents with comprehensive information about how their child is learning.

  • Incorporate research-based best practices in student grading and reporting.

  • Report Life, Work, and Citizenship skills separately from academic achievement.

To view a copy of our FCPS progress report, please click on the link below:

https://www.fcps.edu/academics/grading-and-reporting/elementary-school

 

10. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

Calling All New Vikings!

Virginia law requires that all children who will be 5 years old on or before September 30, 2024, must be enrolled in kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year.  If you do not wish your child to attend school until the following year, you must notify the school in writing. 

If you have a child who will attend Virginia Run Elementary next year, please contact Betty Bancroft to register. This will allow accurate numbers for staffing and classes next year!

Register your child by:

For more information on registration requirements please visit https://www.fcps.edu/registration/kindergarten-registration

General kindergarten information can be found at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-school-academics-k-6/kindergarten

Please spread the word to your neighbors who have children attending Virginia Run ES.

 

11. Family Life Education

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) offers a comprehensive Family Life Education (FLE) program. FLE instruction begins in kindergarten and continues through grade 12. FLE includes topics in human growth and development and social and emotional health. FLE instruction helps students gain knowledge and skills needed to make healthy, responsible, and life-enhancing decisions related to relationships and their physical, emotional, and social health. Parents and guardians are partners in their child’s learning. FLE instruction supports the development of strong families, positive relationships, and a healthy community.

Parents and guardians can review FLE materials. Parents/guardians can access FLE lessons in Schoology using their SIS username and password. Due to copyright permissions, we are unable to stream all media titles online. Lessons and media are available for review at your child’s school. Lessons only are also available at the City of Fairfax Regional Library (this location does not have media).

To foster respect for family choices, parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of all or part of the Family Life Education program. A student who is opted out will receive alternative health instruction. To opt your child out of all or part of the FLE program for this school year, please complete the opt-out form. Return the completed form to your child’s school before FLE instruction begins. The opt-out form is available online. You do not need to return the form to the school if you wish for your child to take part in FLE instruction.

FLE program descriptions and opt-out forms are available on the FCPS website.

12. Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk

This coming school year, Virginia Run will partner with Asha-Jyothi to support Virginia Run students! Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk is a fun-filled family event with foot tapping music, delicious food and a friendly course. It is a volunteer based non-profit organization dedicated to serving the needs of the underprivileged by providing access to education and health care. Asha-Jyothi partners with schools by donating 100% of all registration money from each school back to the school for its STEM needs. 

Last year the Asha-Jyothi foundation granted Deer Park Elementary School over $100,000 to recreate their STEAM Lab into Bucky's Learning Lab. Please join us in supporting this wonderful organization and our Virginia Run students.

Race Date: Sunday, September 15 Location: 4250 Fairfax Corner Avenue; Fairfax, VA 22030 Race Time: Fun Run starts at 8:00 AM and 5K starts at 8:30 AM Price: $30 / Coupon Code "AJ4Schools" for $10 off the 5K

Register Here - Fairfax 5K, hope to see you there!

 

13. Important Upcoming Dates

8/15: Virginia Run Welcome Walk, 9 AM-12 PM

8/15: Virginia Run Open House, 2 PM - 3 PM

8/15: Stone Open House, 3 PM - 4 PM

8/15: Westfield Open House, 5 PM - 7:30 PM 

8/19: First day of school

8/30 & 9/2: Labor Day Break - Student Holiday

9/10: Virginia Run Back to School Night

9/23: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

10/3: Rosh Hashanah- Student Holiday

10/4: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

10/14: Staff Development Day- Student Holiday

10/28: Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

10/31: End of Quarter 1 - 2 Hour Student Release at 2:00 PM

11/1: Diwali- Student Holiday

11/4: School Planning Day- Student Holiday

11/5: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

11/11: Veterans Day- Student Holiday

11/25:  Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

11/27-11/29: Thanksgiving Break- Student Holiday

12/23-1/3: Winter Break- Student Holiday

1/20: Martin Luther King, Jr’s Birthday- Student Holiday

1/28: End of Quarter 2

1/29: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

2/17: Washington’s Birthday and President’s Day- Student Holiday

2/24:  Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

3/17:  Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

3/28: End of Quarter 3

3/31: Eid-al-Fitr- Student Holiday

4/1: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

4/14-4/18: Spring Break- Student Holiday

4/28:  Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

5/19:  Early Release Monday- Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

5/26: Memorial Day- Student Holiday

6/11: Last Day of School- 2 Hour Student Release at 2:00 PM

View the calendar online here: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf/2024-2025-standard-school-year-calendar.pdf 

 

14. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Weekly Message 7/30/24

GovDelivery1 month 1 week ago

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

July 30, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE
  1. Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

  2. Welcome back message with important dates

  3. Limited Early Release Mondays for 2024-25 School Year

  4. Volunteers Needed for Wednesday Envelope stuffing for Welcome Walk

  5. Summer Office Hours

  6. Summer Reading Bingo

  7. Virginia Run Elementary School Book Mobile

  8. “Popsicles on the Playground” Back-to-School Social

  9. PTA Meeting Dates

  10. Elementary School Grading and Reporting

  11. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

  12. Support Your Child’s Success in SIS ParentVUE

  13. Mount Olive Baptist Church Back to School Festival

  14. Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk

  15. Important Upcoming Dates

  16. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

Mr. Gerstner, Mr. Rousos, Ms. Coulter, and Ms. Arreaza attended the Region 5 Kickoff!  We're excited to welcome students back into the building!!

 

1. Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

Welcome NEW Virginia Run Vikings! You are invited to bring your families and come to Virginia Run on July 31st, for a tour of the school and to informally meet new friends. The kindergarten session will be from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM and the grades 1-6 session will be from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM. This event will include a bus ride around the neighborhood and a school tour by our very own staff members and administrators, followed by popsicles on the playground. Come out to meet new friends before the first day of school!

 

2. Welcome Back Message with Important Dates

Dear Virginia Run Elementary School Community,

Welcome back to another exciting school year at Virginia Run Elementary! We hope you've all had a wonderful summer filled with relaxation, fun, and memorable moments with family and friends. As we prepare to embark on the 2024-25 academic year, Lauren, Nick, and I want to extend a warm welcome to both our returning students and families, as well as those who are new to our school community.

We have several important events lined up to kick off the school year:

Virginia Run Welcome Walk

  • Date: August 15
  • Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Virginia Run Open House

  • Date: August 15
  • Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Stone Middle School Open House

  • Date: August 15
  • Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Westfield High School Open House

  • Date: August 15
  • Time: 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM

FCPS First Day of School

  • Date: August 19

Virginia Run Back to School Night

  • Date: September 10
  • Session I     Grades PS, Kindergarten, 3 and 4     5:30 PM – 6:15 PM
  • Session II    Grades 1, 2, 5 and 6                           6:30 PM – 7:15 PM

These events are fantastic opportunities for students and parents to meet teachers, tour the school, and get prepared for the new school year. Our dedicated staff is eager to welcome everyone back and ensure a smooth transition into the academic routine.

As always, communication between home and school is essential for the success of our students. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns throughout the year. Together, we can make this a fulfilling and productive year for every student at Virginia Run Elementary.

Here's to a fantastic year ahead!

Our best,

Dave Gerstner, Principal 

Lauren Arreaza, Assistant Principal

Nick Rousos, Assistant Principal

 

3. Limited Early Release Mondays for 2024-25 School Year 

We are eagerly preparing for the 2024-2025 school year and can't wait to see what it holds for our Virginia Run community.

As you may have heard, the Virginia Literacy Act requires Elementary Teachers (classroom, special education, and ESOL) to complete approximately 27 hours of training focused on the Science of Reading and evidence-based literacy during the 2024-2025 school year. As a result, Fairfax County Public Schools has planned seven early release Mondays starting in September. 

Please note the dates and times for your calendars listed below. 

Virginia Run Elementary will release students at 1:00 PM. on the following days:

  • September 23
  • October 28
  • November 25
  • February 24
  • March 17
  • April 28
  • May 19

To support our families, FCPS has created a webpage with detailed information about the early release Mondays. We encourage you to visit this page for any additional information you may need.  

 

4. Volunteers Needed for Wednesday Envelope Stuffing for Welcome Walk

We are in need of 3 - 4 volunteers to help with stuffing our first Wednesday Envelopes for the Welcome Walk. We need help on Tuesday, August 13th from 9:00 - 11:00 AM or when all envelopes have been stuffed. If you have a high schooler that needs hours, this would be perfect. If you can help, please contact Shannon Soria at [email protected].

   

5. Summer Office Hours

Until August 7th, our Virginia Run office will be open during the summer from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Monday - Friday. Please call the school office at 703-988-8900 if you need to unenroll and/or register a student for the 2024-25 school year. To schedule an appointment to unenroll or register please email Betty Bancroft at  [email protected].

Beginning August 8th, office hours will be 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM.

 

6. Summer Reading Book Bingo

Let’s keep reading all summer!  Complete our fun VRES Summer Reading Bingo Board and return it to Mrs. Siwert in the library the first week of school.  Everyone who turns in a Bingo Board will be able to choose an awesome prize!  Bingo Boards are being sent home in this week’s Wednesday folders.  Go here to print another copy in English or Spanish!  Happy Reading!

2024 Summer Reading Book Bingo in English

2024 Summer Reading Book Bingo in Spanish

 

7. Virginia Run Elementary School Bookmobile

Teachers and parents know how important it is for students to keep reading over the summer months. Need books to read? Be on the look out for the  VRES Bookmobile!

On Wednesdays this summer, VRES staff will be in the Virginia Run  neighborhoods with free books for students!  (See schedule below.)  All students and families are welcome to visit us in every neighborhood! Books are free and yours to keep!

Our last event will be July 31.

Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse - 10 AM - 12 PM

Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse—4200 Airline Pkwy, Chantilly, VA 20151

 

8.“Popsicles on the Playground” Back-to-School Social

The PTA will be hosting a “Popsicles on the Playground” Back-to-School Social on Thursday, August 15 on the blacktop from 2:00 - 3:30 PM. Students can hang out with friends, meet new ones, and enjoy a popsicle sponsored by the PTA.  You can also enter into a raffle to win a FREE birthday party from Bach to Rock!  We hope to see you there!

 

9. PTA Meeting Dates for 2024-2025

PTA Meeting Dates for the 2024-2025 school year. Meetings start at 7:00 PM.

9/10- Meet and Greet in the Virginia Run Lobby

10/8- General Meeting

11/12 – General Meeting

2/11 – General Meeting

3/11 – General Meeting

4/8 – General Meeting

5/12- General Meeting

 

10. Elementary School Grading and Reporting

FCPS is committed to being a responsive, caring, and inclusive culture where all feel valued, supported, and hopeful. Research tells us that a sense of hope and a sense of belonging are important to student learning. As we look toward the 2024-25 school year, we remain committed to fostering a responsive, caring, and inclusive culture where all feel valued, supported, and hopeful. 

Student progress is evaluated every quarter.  At the elementary level, the effort and academics are reported separately so the parents know the effort of the student as well as understanding of specific skills. Individualized comments are an important part of parent communication on the report card.

The progress report will:

  • Provide parents with comprehensive information about how their child is learning.

  • Align with the Program of Studies (POS) curriculum students are learning.

  • Provide teachers with resources to communicate a more exact and consistent assessment.

  • Provide parents with comprehensive information about how their child is learning.

  • Incorporate research-based best practices in student grading and reporting.

  • Report Life, Work, and Citizenship skills separately from academic achievement.

To view a copy of our FCPS progress report, please click on the link below:

https://www.fcps.edu/academics/grading-and-reporting/elementary-school

 

11.Kindergarten and New Student Registration

Calling All New Vikings!

Virginia law requires that all children who will be 5 years old on or before September 30, 2024, must be enrolled in kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year.  If you do not wish your child to attend school until the following year, you must notify the school in writing. 

If you have a child who will attend Virginia Run Elementary next year, please contact Betty Bancroft to register. This will allow accurate numbers for staffing and classes next year!

Register your child by:

For more information on registration requirements please visit https://www.fcps.edu/registration/kindergarten-registration

General kindergarten information can be found at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-school-academics-k-6/kindergarten

Please spread the word to your neighbors who have children attending Virginia Run ES.

 

12. Support Your Child’s Success in SIS ParentVUE

Signing up for a SIS ParentVUE account helps you to support your child’s academic success. Caregivers can view important information in ParentVUE such as attendance, grades, progress reports, and assessment scores. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. A SIS ParentVUE app is available for Apple and Android devices. 

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video explains the steps. Find out more. To create a new account, please contact our school registrar, Afkham Hosseini at [email protected] for an activation letter. 

If you already have an account, be sure your contact information is up-to-date. Parents/guardians can update their phone numbers or email addresses in the Parent/Guardian section. View more information

 

13. Back to School Festival

The Mount Olive Baptist Church is holding a Back to School Festival on Saturday, August 10, 2024 from 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM. There will be food trucks, games, live DJ, carnival rides, bounce house, free backpack with supplies, and more. 

Mount Olive Baptist Church
6600 Old Centreville Road
Centreville, VA 20121

14. Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk

This coming school year, Virginia Run will partner with Asha-Jyothi to support Virginia Run students! Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk is a fun-filled family event with foot tapping music, delicious food and a friendly course. It is a volunteer based non-profit organization dedicated to serving the needs of the underprivileged by providing access to education and health care. Asha-Jyothi partners with schools by donating 100% of all registration money from each school back to the school for its STEM needs. 

Last year the Asha-Jyothi foundation granted Deer Park Elementary School over $100,000 to recreate their STEAM Lab into Bucky's Learning Lab. Please join us in supporting this wonderful organization and our Virginia Run students.

Race Date: Sunday, September 15 Location: 4250 Fairfax Corner Avenue; Fairfax, VA 22030 Race Time: Fun Run starts at 8:00 AM and 5K starts at 8:30 AM Price: $30 / Coupon Code "AJ4Schools" for $10 off the 5K

Register Here - Fairfax 5K, hope to see you there!

 

15. Important Upcoming Dates

7/31: Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

8/15: Virginia Run Welcome Walk, 9 AM-12 PM

8/15: Virginia Run Open House, 2 PM - 3 PM

8/15: Stone Open House, 3 PM - 4 PM

8/15: Westfield Open House, 5 PM - 7:30 PM 

8/19: First day of school

9/10: Virginia Run Back to School Night

 

16. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Weekly Message 6/21/24

GovDelivery2 months 3 weeks ago

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

School Hours: 9:15 am - 4:00 pm, Monday - Friday School building opens for students at 9:00 am Office: 703-988-8900 Attendance: 703-988-8989

 

June 21, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE
  1. Summer Office Hours
  2. School Supply Pre-Orders

  3. Summer Reading Bingo

  4. Virginia Run Elementary School Book Mobile

  5. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

  6. Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

  7. Important Upcoming Dates

  8. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

1. Summer Office Hours

Until August 7th, our Virginia Run office will be open during the summer from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, Monday - Friday. Please call the school office at 703-988-8900 if you need to unenroll and/or register a student for the 2024-25 school year. To schedule an appointment to unenroll or register please email Betty Bancroft at  [email protected].

 

Sixth graders enjoy their end of year party at Bowlero before returning to school for lunch and games.

 

2. School Supply Pre-Orders

Make the summer stress free by pre-ordering school supplies for next year! Supplies will be delivered directly to the school and will be in your student's classroom in time for their classroom visit the week before school begins. 

Order securely online now through June 25th!

  1. Go to www.educationalproducts.com/shoppacks.
  2. Enter the school ID, VIR003 (3 letters/3 numbers)
  3. Follow the directions to complete your order.
  4. Keep your online confirmation as your receipt.

Questions? Contact Sarah Cullen at [email protected].

3. Summer Reading Book Bingo

Let’s keep reading all summer!  Complete our fun VRES Summer Reading Bingo Board and return it to Mrs. Siwert in the library the first week of school.  Everyone who turns in a Bingo Board will be able to choose an awesome prize!  Bingo Boards are being sent home in this week’s Wednesday folders.  Go here to print another copy in English or Spanish!  Happy Reading!

2024 Summer Reading Book Bingo in English

2024 Summer Reading Book Bingo in Spanish

 

4. Virginia Run Elementary School Bookmobile

Teachers and parents know how important it is for students to keep reading over the summer months. Need books to read? Be on the look out for the  VRES Bookmobile!

On Wednesdays this summer, VRES staff will be in the Virginia Run  neighborhoods with free books for students! (See schedule below.)  All students and families are welcome to visit us in every neighborhood! Books are free and yours to keep!

 

June 26 - Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse, 10 am - 12 pm

July 3 - Pleasant Valley Pool, 10 am - 12 pm

July 10 - Virginia Run School, 10 am - 12 pm

July 10 - Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse, 10 am - 12 pm

July 17 - Pleasant Valley Pool, 10 am - 12 pm

July 24 - Virginia Run School, 10 am - 12 pm

July 24 - Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse, 10 am - 12 pm

July 31 - Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse, 10 am - 12 pm

 

Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse—4200 Airline Pkwy, Chantilly, VA 20151

Pleasant Valley Pool—4347 Cub Run Rd, Chantilly, VA 20151

Virginia Run School—15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120

Bookmobile Flyer 2024

 

5. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

Calling All New Vikings!

Virginia law requires that all children who will be 5 years old on or before September 30, 2024, must be enrolled in kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year. If you do not wish your child to attend school until the following year, you must notify the school in writing. 

If you have a child who will attend Virginia Run Elementary next year, please contact Betty Bancroft to register. This will allow accurate numbers for staffing and classes next year!

Register your child by:

For more information on registration requirements please visit https://www.fcps.edu/registration/kindergarten-registration

General kindergarten information can be found at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-school-academics-k-6/kindergarten

Please spread the word to your neighbors who will have children attending Virginia Run ES.

 

6. Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

Welcome NEW Virginia Run Vikings! You are invited to bring your families and come to Virginia Run July 31st, for a tour of the school and to informally meet new friends. The kindergarten session will be from 9:00 am to 10:00 am and the grades 1 - 6 session will be from 10:00 am - 11:00 am. This event will include a bus ride around the neighborhood and a school tour by our very own staff members and administrators, followed by popsicles on the playground. Come out to meet new friends before the first day of school!

 

7. Important Upcoming Dates

7/31: Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

8/15: Virginia Run Welcome Walk, 9 AM-12 PM

8/15: Virginia Run Open House, 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

8/15: Stone Open House, 4:30 PM

8/15: Westfield Open House, 5 PM - 7:30 PM 

8/19: First day of school

9/10: Virginia Run Back to School Night

 

 

8. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Weekly Message 6/12/24

GovDelivery2 months 4 weeks ago

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

School Hours: 9:15 am - 4:00 pm, Monday - Friday School building opens for students at 9:00 am Office: 703-988-8900 Attendance: 703-988-8989

 

June 12, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE
  1. A Fond Farewell to Some Staff Members

  2. Meet our new teachers - Fall 2024

  3. Staffing Updates for 2024 - 2025

  4. School Supply Pre-Orders

  5. Summer Reading Bingo
  6. Virginia Run Elementary School Book Mobile

  7. Recognize Our VRES Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

  8. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

  9. Kindergarten Orientation Presentation

  10. Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

  11. Important Upcoming Dates

  12. Summer Office Hours

  13. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

TODAY IS THE LAST DAY OF SCHOOL!

Have a safe, fun and wonderful summer! We look forward to seeing everyone return to school August 19th!!

Happy Summer!

 

Congratulations to our 6th Grade Class

Congratulations to the 2024 VRES Sixth Grade Class! We will miss you and know you will do well in middle school!

 

Mr. Gerstner awarding Ian Bohall the 2024 Principal's Award during the 6th grade promotion ceremony today.

 

The whole school clapped out 6th grade as they headed out for their end of school celebration!

 

1. A Fond Farewell to Some Staff Members

Each year, we take a moment to celebrate and share our appreciation for staff who are leaving Virginia Run Elementary School. We have no staff members retiring this year but we do have staff who are leaving for new opportunities. 

We thank you and wish each of you well as you begin the next chapter of your stories!

  • Ramya Kannan
  • Delmy Martinez
  • Michelle Matteos
  • Colleen McGovern
  • Gayathri Ponnusamy
  • Molly Potock    

 

2. Meet our new teachers - Fall 2024
  • Susie Doak - 6th Grade Teacher
  • Masi Vasef - 6th Grade Special Education Teacher
  • Jessica Scott - Special Education Teacher - Non-Cat
  • Nicole Ross - 1st Grade Teacher

 

3. Staffing Updates for 2024 - 2025
  • Maggie Carey will be moving from 5th grade to 3rd grade.
  • Michelle Spezzano will be moving from 1st grade to 2nd grade.

Please be mindful that additional staffing updates may continue to occur throughout the summer. We will share final staffing updates prior to the opening of school. Thank you!

 

Mr. Antoncic was nominated and chosen from all submissions this month as the Region 5 recipient of the FCPS CARES Award!

 

4. School Supply Pre-Orders

Make the summer stress free by pre-ordering school supplies for next year! Supplies will be delivered directly to the school and will be in your student's classroom in time for their classroom visit the week before school begins. 

Order securely online now through June 25th!

  1. Go to www.educationalproducts.com/shoppacks.
  2. Enter the school ID, VIR003 (3 letters/3 numbers)
  3. Follow the directions to complete your order.
  4. Keep your online confirmation as your receipt.

Questions? Contact Sarah Cullen at [email protected].

5. Summer Reading Book Bingo

Let’s keep reading all summer!  Complete our fun VRES Summer Reading Bingo Board and return it to Mrs. Siwert in the library the first week of school.  Everyone who turns in a Bingo Board will be able to choose an awesome prize!  Bingo Boards are being sent home in this week’s Wednesday folders.  Go here to print another copy in English or Spanish!  Happy Reading!

2024 Summer Reading Book Bingo in English

2024 Summer Reading Book Bingo in Spanish

 

Ms. Buckley’s 5th grade students celebrate “Beach Day” during the last week of school. 

 

6. Virginia Run Elementary School Bookmobile

Teachers and parents know how important it is for students to keep reading over the summer months. Need books to read? Be on the look out for the  VRES Bookmobile!

On Wednesdays this summer, VRES staff will be in the Virginia Run  neighborhoods with free books for students! (See schedule below.)  All students and families are welcome to visit us in every neighborhood! Books are free and yours to keep!

 

June 26 - Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse, 10 am - 12 pm

July 3 - Pleasant Valley Pool, 10 am - 12 pm

July 10 - Virginia Run School, 10 am - 12 pm

July 10 - Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse, 10 am - 12 pm

July 17 - Pleasant Valley Pool, 10 am - 12 pm

July 24 - Virginia Run School, 10 am - 12 pm

July 24 - Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse, 10 am - 12 pm

July 31 - Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse, 10 am - 12 pm

 

Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse—4200 Airline Pkwy, Chantilly, VA 20151

Pleasant Valley Pool—4347 Cub Run Rd, Chantilly, VA 20151

Virginia Run School—15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120

Bookmobile Flyer 2024

 

Past Super Bowl winner Sean Jones came to our class today to discuss the importance of education in professional sports.

 

7. Recognize Our VRES Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Virginia Run!

submit your story

 

8. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

Calling All New Vikings!

Virginia law requires that all children who will be 5 years old on or before September 30, 2024, must be enrolled in kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year. If you do not wish your child to attend school until the following year, you must notify the school in writing. 

If you have a child who will attend Virginia Run Elementary next year, please contact Betty Bancroft to register. This will allow accurate numbers for staffing and classes next year!

Register your child by:

For more information on registration requirements please visit https://www.fcps.edu/registration/kindergarten-registration

General kindergarten information can be found at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-school-academics-k-6/kindergarten

Please spread the word to your neighbors who will have children attending Virginia Run ES.

 

Upper grades enjoyed their field day on Monday!

 

9. Kindergarten Orientation Presentation

Our Kindergarten Orientation was on May 3, 2024. If you were unable to attend, please use the link below to view the pdf presentation. 

VRES 2024 Kindergarten Orientation Presentation.pdf

 

10. Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

Welcome NEW Virginia Run Vikings! You are invited to bring your families and come to Virginia Run July 31st, for a tour of the school and to informally meet new friends. The kindergarten session will be from 9:00 am to 10:00 am and the grades 1 - 6 session will be from 10:00 am - 11:00 am. This event will include a bus ride around the neighborhood and a school tour by our very own staff members and administrators, followed by popsicles on the playground. Come out to meet new friends before the first day of school!

 

11. Important Upcoming Dates

7/31: Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

8/15: Virginia Run Welcome Walk, 9 AM-12 PM

8/15: Virginia Run Open House, 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

8/15: Stone Open House, 4:30 PM

8/15 Westfield Open House, 5 PM - 7:30 PM 

8/19 First day of school

9/10: Virginia Run Back to School Night

 

 

12. Summer Office Hours

Until August 7th, our Virginia Run office will be open during the summer from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, Monday - Friday. Please call the school office at 703-988-8900 if you need to unenroll and/or register a student for the 2024-25 school year. To schedule an appointment to unenroll or register please email Betty Bancroft at  [email protected].

 

13. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Weekly Message 6/7/24

GovDelivery3 months ago

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

School Hours: 9:15 am - 4:00 pm, Monday - Friday School building opens for students at 9:00 am Office: 703-988-8900 Attendance: 703-988-8989

 

June 7, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE
  1. Health Room Notice

  2. Report Cards
  3. Yearbook Distribution
  4. Band and Strings Registrations

  5. School Supply Pre-Orders

  6. Summer Reading Book Bingo
  7. Virginia Run Elementary School Book Mobile

  8. Recognize Our VRES Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

  9. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

  10. Kindergarten Orientation Presentation

  11. Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

  12. Centreville High School Boys Basketball Camp 2024

  13. Important Upcoming Dates

  14. Summer Office Hours

  15. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

REMINDER

The last day of school is this Wednesday, June 12. It is a 2hr. early release day. Students will be dismissed at 2:00 pm.

Have a safe, fun and wonderful summer! We look forward to seeing everyone return to school August 19th!!

Happy Summer!

 

1. Health Room Notice

The school health room is reminding parents and guardians that all medication stored in the health room must be picked up no later than 2:00 pm, student dismissal time, on the last day of school, June 12. Medication left in the health room after that time will be discarded. It is school policy that medications must be picked up by the parent or guardian. Medication cannot be sent home with your student.

Medication authorization forms for next school year may be obtained from the school or online at https://www.fcps.edu/resources/student-safety-and-wellness/school-health-services. A medication authorization form is required for any medication, prescription or over-the-counter, to be kept at school.

 

4th Grade Celebrates the End of Year with some sun and water!

2. Report Cards

Report cards will go home with students on Wednesday, June 12, the last day of school. If your child will not be in school that day and you would like the report card mailed to you, please send in a self-addressed stamped envelope to your child's teacher. Thank you.

 

3. Yearbook Distribution

Pre-ordered yearbooks will be distributed on Monday, June 10th to all grade levels, beginning with 6th grade. There will be a limited supply of soft cover yearbooks for sale in the office on Monday, June 10th for $30 each. First come, first served. Exact change only. Checks can be made out to VRES PTA.

 

Mr.Bandy led the VRES band and a guest player on sax this year, LET’S GO BAND!

 

4. Band and Strings Registrations

Does your child want to learn to play an instrument? Band and Strings registrations are happening now for the 2024-2025 school year! Sign up by Friday, June 7th!!

Strings Registration (for rising 4th, 5th, and 6th graders)

Band Registration (for rising 5th & 6th graders)

 

5. School Supply Pre-Orders

Make the summer stress free by pre-ordering school supplies for next year! Supplies will be delivered directly to the school and will be in your student's classroom in time for their classroom visit the week before school begins. 

Order securely online now through June 25th!

  1. Go to www.educationalproducts.com/shoppacks.
  2. Enter the school ID, VIR003 (3 letters/3 numbers)
  3. Follow the directions to complete your order.
  4. Keep your online confirmation as your receipt.

Questions? Contact Sarah Cullen at [email protected].

Preschool had a BLAST with water day!  They enjoyed popsicles and splashing in the cool water on a hot day! 

 

6. Summer Reading Book Bingo

Let’s keep reading all summer!  Complete our fun VRES Summer Reading Bingo Board and return it to Mrs. Siwert in the library the first week of school.  Everyone who turns in a Bingo Board will be able to choose an awesome prize!  Bingo Boards are being sent home in this week’s Wednesday folders.  Go here to print another copy in English or Spanish!  Happy Reading!

2024 Summer Reading Book Bingo in English

2024 Summer Reading Book Bingo in Spanish

 

7. Virginia Run Elementary School Bookmobile

Teachers and parents know how important it is for students to keep reading over the summer months. Need books to read? Be on the look out for the  VRES Bookmobile!

On Wednesdays this summer, VRES staff will be in the Virginia Run  neighborhoods with free books for students! (See schedule below.)  All students and families are welcome to visit us in every neighborhood! Books are free and yours to keep!

 

June 26 - Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse, 10 am - 12 pm

July 3 - Pleasant Valley Pool, 10 am - 12 pm

July 10 - Virginia Run School, 10 am - 12 pm

July 10 - Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse, 10 am - 12 pm

July 17 - Pleasant Valley Pool, 10 am - 12 pm

July 24 - Virginia Run School, 10 am - 12 pm

July 24 - Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse, 10 am - 12 pm

July 31 - Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse, 10 am - 12 pm

 

Meadows of Chantilly Clubhouse—4200 Airline Pkwy, Chantilly, VA 20151

Pleasant Valley Pool—4347 Cub Run Rd, Chantilly, VA 20151

Virginia Run School—15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120

Bookmobile Flyer 2024

 

2nd Grade goes on a virtual field trip to the bottom of the ocean!

 

8. Recognize Our VRES Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Virginia Run!

submit your story

 

9. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

Calling All New Vikings!

Virginia law requires that all children who will be 5 years old on or before September 30, 2024, must be enrolled in kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year. If you do not wish your child to attend school until the following year, you must notify the school in writing. 

If you have a child who will attend Virginia Run Elementary next year, please contact Betty Bancroft to register. This will allow accurate numbers for staffing and classes next year!

Register your child by:

For more information on registration requirements please visit https://www.fcps.edu/registration/kindergarten-registration

General kindergarten information can be found at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-school-academics-k-6/kindergarten

Please spread the word to your neighbors who will have children attending Virginia Run ES.

 

10. Kindergarten Orientation Presentation

Our Kindergarten Orientation was on May 3, 2024. If you were unable to attend, please use the link below to view the pdf presentation. 

VRES 2024 Kindergarten Orientation Presentation.pdf

 

11. Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

Welcome NEW Virginia Run Vikings! You are invited to bring your families and come to Virginia Run July 31st, for a tour of the school and to informally meet new friends. The kindergarten session will be from 9:00 am to 10:00 am and the grades 1 - 6 session will be from 10:00 am - 11:00 am. This event will include a bus ride around the neighborhood and a school tour by our very own staff members and administrators, followed by popsicles on the playground. Come out to meet new friends before the first day of school!

 

VRES Preschoolers, their parents, and staff attend a Promotion Ceremony and watch a slideshow of their activities, Principal Gerstner joined the celebration and handed  certificates to the graduates. 

 

12. Centreville High School Boys Basketball Camp 2024

The Centreville High School Boosters is sponsoring the Boys Basketball Camp 2024 at Centreville High School from July 29th - August 2nd. The camp runs from 8:30 am - 2:30 pm and is open to boys, 7 - 15 years old. The cost is $225 per camper that includes a camp t-shirt. There will be daily instruction by coaching staff and varsity players, daily competitions to earn trophies, 3 vs. 3 tournament, money shot game to win cash, and three games everyday!

Register now using the QR code on the flyer or visit www.wearecvill.net.

Questions? Email Coach Person at [email protected].

Centerville HS Basketball Camp 2024 Flyer

 

13. Important Upcoming Dates

6/10: Field Day, Grades 3-6

6/11: 6th Grade Celebration

6/12: 6th Grade Promotion, 9:30 am

6/12: Last Day of School - 2hr Early Release

 

14. Summer Office Hours

Until August 7th, our Virginia Run office will be open during the summer from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, Monday - Friday. Please call the school office at 703-988-8900 if you need to unenroll and/or register a student for the 2024-25 school year. To schedule an appointment to unenroll or register please email Betty Bancroft at  [email protected].

 

15. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Weekly Message 5/31/24

GovDelivery3 months 1 week ago

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

School Hours: 9:15 am - 4:00 pm, Monday - Friday School building opens for students at 9:00 am Office: 703-988-8900 Attendance: 703-988-8989

 

May 31, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE
  1. Health Room Notice

  2. Parent Volunteers Needed for Food Pantry Delivery

  3. VRES Book Drive

  4. Band and Strings Registrations

  5. Annual VRES Art Walk

  6. PTA Bake Sale at the Art Walk

  7. Lost and Found

  8. Field Day!!!!

  9. PTA Executive Board Members Needed

  10. School Supply Pre-Orders

  11. Recognize Our VRES Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

  12. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

  13. Kindergarten Orientation Presentation

  14. Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

  15. 2024 Summer P.E. Sports Camp

  16. Fairfax County Puzzle Hunt

  17. SYA Little League Fall 2024 Baseball and Softball Registrations Now Open

  18. Chronic Absenteeism - State Board SOA Decision

  19. Important Upcoming Dates

  20. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

The 6th grade students painted our spirit rock on Thursday.

 

1. Health Room Notice

The school health room is reminding parents and guardians that all medication stored in the health room must be picked up no later than 2:00 pm, student dismissal time, on the last day of school, June 12. Medication left in the health room after that time will be discarded. It is school policy that medications must be picked up by the parent or guardian. Medication cannot be sent home with your student.

Medication authorization forms for next school year may be obtained from the school or online at https://www.fcps.edu/resources/student-safety-and-wellness/school-health-services. A medication authorization form is required for any medication, prescription or over-the-counter, to be kept at school.

 

2. Parent Volunteers Needed for Food Pantry Delivery

There are a few spots open to sign up to deliver the leftover unopened school lunch items (milks, yogurts, cheese sticks, bananas, chips, etc.) to our local food pantry at Western Fairfax Christian Ministries. Learn more and sign-up for a shift (or more!) at VRES Food Pantry Delivery 2023-2024. Each shift takes about one hour, and clear instructions will be emailed to you once you sign up. Thank you for helping VRES keep good food out of landfills and to serve our community in this way again!

 

The learning never stops at VRES! Mr. Antoncic, along with Mr. Siwert and Ms. Wade, entertain the kids, while infusing counting and estimation practice, as they wait for a bus that is running late.

 

3. VRES Book Drive

Virginia Run will be collecting new and gently used children's books from Tuesday, May 28 - Friday, June 7 for distribution in our school community. Book collection bins will be in the lobby. Please consider donating by collecting books you are no longer reading or ask your family, friends, and neighbors for books.

 

4. Band and Strings Registrations

Does your child want to learn to play an instrument? Band and Strings registrations are happening now for the 2024-2025 school year! Sign up by Friday, June 7th!!

Strings Registration (for rising 4th, 5th, and 6th graders)

Band Registration (for rising 5th & 6th graders)

 

5. Annual VRES Art Walk

Wednesday June 5, 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Families are invited to our Annual Art Walk! This fun annual event is a showcase for every student at Virginia Run. Our Viking artists have been creating all year and are ready to show their work. Every student will have an artwork on display, and we will have a scavenger hunt for art throughout the school! Please join us for a fun evening!  

 

6. PTA Bake Sale at the Art Walk

The PTA will be hosting a bake sale at the Art Walk on Wednesday, June 5.  We are asking for donations of individually wrapped homemade or store-bought baked goods.  Please use the link below for more information and to donate items.  Thank you for your support! 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044EAFAF2CA6F94-49740383-ptabake 

 

7. Lost and Found

Don't forget to check the lost and found or ask your children to do so by the last day of school. There are a LOT of items in there which will be donated at the end of the school year. All items will be on display during the Art Walk on Wednesday, June 5.

 

8. Field Day!!!!

We will be holding our annual FIELD DAY events on Friday June 7th for grades K, 1, and 2 and on Monday June 10th for grades 3, 4, and 5.  6th grade will have field day on both days.

The emphasis of this year's Field Day is on problem solving, teamwork, and fun.  All of the events will be based on one or more of these objectives.  All students should leave each station with a positive feeling. 

The students need to dress appropriately.  Loose fitting clothes and sneakers will be essential for the students to participate in all of the events.  The weather will more than likely be warm, and it is very possible that they will get dirty, wet, and sweaty.  A hat can help to shield the sun and a towel because many of the activities will involve water.  If the students want to wear sunscreen or bug repellent, their parents must supervise the application at home before coming to school.

We are all very excited for this fun event!

 

9. PTA Executive Board Members Needed

The PTA is in need of nominations for the 2024-2025 VRES PTA Executive Board. To volunteer for a position, send an email to the nominating committee at [email protected] with the position for which you would like to run. 

Candidates may seek any position, but we currently have THREE positions looking for a candidate: VP of Fundraising, Treasurer and Secretary. The PTA Executive Board is required to have a Treasurer, Secretary and a President in order to operate. If we do not have the required positions to operate we will not be able to continue to provide the before/after school clubs, Science Quest, social events such as the Back to School Picnic, Fall Fest/Trunk or Treat, Viking Dash or staff appreciation lunches.

Please consider joining the Board. It should be noted, no position operates alone. We are all one Board and we support each other in every aspect! Come join our team!

Executive Board Positions and Job Descriptions

President - (required position) Preside over meetings, submit all necessary documents to stay compliant, coordinates the work of the officers and committees of the local PTA in order that the purposes may be promoted. Oversees the general operations of the PTA.- A required position for the PTA to run.

Secretary – (required position) Oversees and is in charge of all minutes/records/calendar for the PTA. The Secretary keeps the official copies of bylaws, is in charge of posting to social media different events and reminders; also maintains the PTA membership list.

Treasurer -(required position) Oversees and is in charge of all funds and finances of the PTA, which includes full and accurate accounting for all transactions, making disbursements and reimbursements as appropriate. The Treasurer presents a written financial statement at each meeting, prepares annual financial reports and submits required forms to the IRS for review.- A required position for the PTA to run.

VP of Fundraising - Oversees and is in charge of fundraising efforts for the PTA. Establish fundraising events through a membership drive, spirit wear, Viking Dash, restaurant spirit nights and any other fundraising opportunities. Without this position, funding for many of our social events, teacher appreciation activities and student assemblies may not possible.

VP of Education- Oversees and is in charge of all educational enrichments clubs/activities to include registration and vendor coordination of before/after school clubs. The VP of Education also coordinates two educational assemblies annually for the students and the annual Science Quest.

VP of Social- Oversees social events (Back to School picnic, Fall Fest/Trunk or Treat, BINGO, etc) organize staff appreciations breakfast/lunches, communicates with room parent coordinator, coordinates social events for the staff and the students in conjunction with celebrations throughout the year.

Kindergarten learns about fire safety with the Fairfax County Fire Department.

 

10. School Supply Pre-Orders

Make the summer stress free by pre-ordering school supplies for next year! Supplies will be delivered directly to the school and will be in your student's classroom in time for their classroom visit the week before school begins. 

Paper order forms went home in the Wednesday folder on May 22. 

Order securely online now through June 25th!

  1. Go to www.educationalproducts.com/shoppacks.
  2. Enter the school ID, VIR003 (3 letters/3 numbers)
  3. Follow the directions to complete your order.
  4. Keep your online confirmation as your receipt.

Questions? Contact Sarah Cullen at [email protected].

11. Recognize Our VRES Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Virginia Run!

submit your story

 

12. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

Calling All New Vikings!

Virginia law requires that all children who will be 5 years old on or before September 30, 2024, must be enrolled in kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year. If you do not wish your child to attend school until the following year, you must notify the school in writing. 

If you have a child who will attend Virginia Run Elementary next year, please contact Betty Bancroft to register. This will allow accurate numbers for staffing and classes next year!

Register your child by:

For more information on registration requirements please visit https://www.fcps.edu/registration/kindergarten-registration

General kindergarten information can be found at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-school-academics-k-6/kindergarten

Please spread the word to your neighbors who will have children attending Virginia Run ES.

 

13. Kindergarten Orientation Presentation

Our Kindergarten Orientation was on May 3, 2024. If you were unable to attend, please use the link below to view the pdf presentation. 

VRES 2024 Kindergarten Orientation Presentation.pdf

 

14. Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

Welcome NEW Virginia Run Vikings! You are invited to bring your families and come to Virginia Run July 31st, for a tour of the school and to informally meet new friends. The kindergarten session will be from 9:00 am to 10:00 am and the grades 1 - 6 session will be from 10:00 am - 11:00 am. This event will include a bus ride around the neighborhood and a school tour by our very own staff members and administrators, followed by popsicles on the playground. Come out to meet new friends before the first day of school!

 

15. 2024 Summer P.E. Sports Camp

Our 2024 Summer P.E. Sports Camp is Monday, June 24, 2024 - Thursday, June 27, 2024. This 4-day camp at Virginia Run ES will offer a variety of different sports and activities for students in all grades. This camp is open to all VRES students in grades K - 6.

Contact VRES P.E. Instructor, Scott Rosenfeld, if you have any questions: [email protected]

Cost: $120 per participant

Register and Pay Online:

https://vrespta.ptboard.com/formvw/form?store=4128&form=20

REGISTRATION IS DUE BY MAY 24TH!

Registration Questions? Contact Kimberly Wilson: [email protected]

P.E. Summer Camp 2024 Flyer

 

16. Fairfax County Puzzle Hunt

Fairfax County is hosting its 1st Puzzle Hunt! 

When: Launches June 15, 2024

The Solving Fun Puzzle Pals have been hard at work, creating an exhilarating adventure for puzzle solvers. We are thrilled to announce the Fairfax County Puzzle Hunt, a unique community event that will take you on a journey to the wonderful parks in Fairfax County. Starting this summer, solve one puzzle or do them all. Puzzles are filled with creative thinking, logic, and wordplay. They are designed to be challenging and accessible for all skill levels. Solve the puzzles and then find clues at the parks for a final meta-puzzle. Walk, bike, and roll at our wonderful local parks with friends and family. For more information go to  www.solvingfun.com/fairfax.

 

17. SYA Little League Fall 2024 Baseball and Softball Registrations Now Open

Fall registration is now open for SYA Little League baseball and softball. Register now! Late fee applies beginning July 1, 2024. All experience levels welcome. Visit bit.ly/syalittleleague to register. You may also use the QR code below. Questions? Contact [email protected].

Divisions & Ages

Baseball - Boys & Girls Ages 4-12

Tee Ball (4-6)

Coach Pitch (5-7)

Rookies (7-8)

Minors AA/AAA (8-11)

Majors (10-12)

Softball - Girls Ages 7-16

Minors (7-11)

Majors (10-12)

Seniors (13-16)

SYA Baseball and Softball Fall 2024 Flyer

SYA Baseball and Softball Fall 2024 Flyer - Spanish

18. Chronic Absenteeism - State Board SOA Decision Chronic Absenteeism - State Board SOA Decision

Last school year, the Virginia Board of Education decided to not suspend chronic absenteeism as part of school accreditation determinations. The Board’s rationale was a desire to send a strong message to schools, families, and students about the importance of regular attendance for student success. The Board decision means that schools with Level 3 (red) in any indicator—including chronic absenteeism—based on end-of-year data will receive “Accredited with Conditions” designation. 

Chronic Absenteeism is defined as missing 10% or more of the school year, regardless of reason.  A student is determined to be chronically absent if the rate of their days absent divided by their total days in membership is greater than or equal to 10%.

As of May 29th, Virginia Run is ranked 4.5% away from our chronic absenteeism rate being in the yellow with a school percentage of 10.5%. As we finish out the remainder of this school year, we will continue to update this percentage with you in hopes that we can join our Westfield pyramid schools for having an acceptable chronic absenteeism rate of 10% or lower.  One of our Virginia Run School Innovation and Improvement Plan goals is to reduce Tier 2 & Tier 3 level chronic absenteeism from 16% (last year)  to 10% or less in 2023-24.

REQUEST FOR PRE ARRANGED ABSENCE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

FCPS Excused absences include the following reasons: illness, injury, funeral, legal obligations, medical procedures, religious observances, deployment-related absences, or family emergency.

If the reason for this prearranged absence is different from the above, please indicate the reason for the absence. Parents must plan to arrange for their child to complete make-up work, tests, or projects. If the student's planned absences exceed five school days, a parent conference may be required. The conference will include a review of the student's academic and absence record. Students who are absent 15 or more consecutive school days will be withdrawn from enrollment.

Virginia Run Elementary School is committed to providing our students with a high quality education.  Academic success relies upon excellent school attendance.  Children who come to school on time every day are building critical life skills they will use throughout the rest of their lives.  Like strengthening a muscle, building positive attendance habits early on make a difference for our children today and for our adults of tomorrow.  Attending school regularly helps children feel better about school and themselves.  Virginia Run is teaming up with the other 9 schools in the Westfield Pyramid in an effort to make sure all of our students are in school, on time, each day.

Did you know?

  • Regular school attendance in grades preschool through grade 6 makes it more likely that your child will read on grade level. 
  • The 2024-25 school year calendar has been published and we highly recommend scheduling vacations around the school year calendar.  We have pasted the link below for your convenience:

https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf/2024-2025-standard-school-year-calendar.pdf

  • Even excused absences interfere with learning.
  • A pattern of absences (whether unexcused or excused) is one of the main reasons children have lower academic achievement.  
  • Students who attend 90% or more of the school year are more likely to graduate from high school on time.
  • Absences can mask deeper struggles. For example; absences may be a sign that a student is losing interest in school, he or she may be struggling with school work or peer relationships, or possibly facing a medical or mental health concern.

Support is available:

All staff members at Virginia Run ES are committed to supporting attendance. Additional resources can be found online at http://www.fcps.edu/attendance. We know that parents are the experts on their own child and our school team is here to partner and help solve attendance-related concerns.  The school counselor, school social worker, psychologist, and family liaison are available:

Leonor Arellano, School Counselor   [email protected]

Rachel Wyllie, School Counselor   [email protected]

Stephanie Whittaker, Social Worker   [email protected]

Jini Kapur, Psychologist   [email protected]

Carolina Chavez, Family Liaison    [email protected]

 

19. Important Upcoming Dates

6/4: Westfield High School Graduation, 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

6/5: Art Walk, Virginia Run, 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm

6/5: Band Concert, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm

6/6: Strings Concert, 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

6/7: Field Day, Grades K-2 & 6

6/10: Field Day, Grades 3-6

6/11: 6th Grade Celebration

6/12: 6th Grade Promotion, 9:30 am

6/12: Last Day of School - 2hr Early Release

 

20. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

Virginia Run Weekly Message 5/24/24

GovDelivery3 months 2 weeks ago

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى.

School Hours: 9:15 am - 4:00 pm, Monday - Friday School building opens for students at 9:00 am Office: 703-988-8900 Attendance: 703-988-8989

 

May 24, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE
  1. Health Room Notice

  2. SCA Spirit Day - Red, White, and Blue Day

  3. Parent Volunteers Needed for Food Pantry Delivery

  4. VRES Book Drive

  5. Band and Strings Registrations

  6. Annual VRES Art Walk

  7. PTA Bake Sale at the Art Walk

  8. Lost and Found

  9. Field Day!!!!

  10. PTA Executive Board Members Needed

  11. School Supply Pre-Orders

  12. Recognize Our VRES Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

  13. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

  14. Kindergarten Orientation Presentation

  15. Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

  16. 2024 Summer P.E. Sports Camp

  17. Fairfax County Puzzle Hunt

  18. Chronic Absenteeism - State Board SOA Decision

  19. Important Upcoming Dates

  20. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

Calendar Reminder: Memorial Day   

All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, May 27, for the Memorial Day holiday. Learn about the history of Memorial Day.

 

5th and 6th grade chorus perform for students, under the direction of Mr. Tyler and Ms. Berg.

 

1. Health Room Notice

The school health room is reminding parents and guardians that all medication stored in the health room must be picked up no later than 2:00 pm, student dismissal time, on the last day of school, June 12. Medication left in the health room after that time will be discarded. It is school policy that medications must be picked up by the parent or guardian. Medication cannot be sent home with your student.

Medication authorization forms for next school year may be obtained from the school or online at https://www.fcps.edu/resources/student-safety-and-wellness/school-health-services. A medication authorization form is required for any medication, prescription or over-the-counter, to be kept at school.

 

2. SCA Spirit Day - Red, White, and Blue Day

The next SCA Spirit Day will be on Friday, May 31. Wear red, white and blue!

 

Former Virginia Run students, currently seniors at Westfield HS,  come back to visit and assist their sixth grade teacher, Mrs. LeClerc.

 

3. Parent Volunteers Needed for Food Pantry Delivery

There are a few spots open to sign up to deliver the leftover unopened school lunch items (milks, yogurts, cheese sticks, bananas, chips, etc.) to our local food pantry at Western Fairfax Christian Ministries. Learn more and sign-up for a shift (or more!) at VRES Food Pantry Delivery 2023-2024. Each shift takes about one hour, and clear instructions will be emailed to you once you sign up. Thank you for helping VRES keep good food out of landfills and to serve our community in this way again!

 

4. VRES Book Drive

Virginia Run will be collecting new and gently used children's books from Tuesday, May 28 - Friday, June 7 for distribution in our school community. Book collection bins will be in the lobby. Please consider donating by collecting books you are no longer reading or ask your family, friends, and neighbors for books.

 

5th Grade reviews for their upcoming SOL with a fun outdoor science challenge! Students completed tasks and gained teacher signatures to make their way through all 12 stations. 

 

5. Band and Strings Registrations

Does your child want to learn to play an instrument? Band and Strings registrations are happening now for the 2024-2025 school year! Sign up by Friday, June 7th!!

Strings Registration (for rising 4th, 5th, and 6th graders)

Band Registration (for rising 5th & 6th graders)

 

6. Annual VRES Art Walk

Wednesday June 5, 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Families are invited to our Annual Art Walk! This fun annual event is a showcase for every student at Virginia Run. Our Viking artists have been creating all year and are ready to show their work. Every student will have an artwork on display, and we will have a scavenger hunt for art throughout the school! Please join us for a fun evening!  

 

7. PTA Bake Sale at the Art Walk

The PTA will be hosting a bake sale at the Art Walk on Wednesday, June 5.  We are asking for donations of individually wrapped homemade or store-bought baked goods.  Please use the link below for more information and to donate items.  Thank you for your support! 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044EAFAF2CA6F94-49740383-ptabake 

 

8. Lost and Found

Don't forget to check the lost and found or ask your children to do so by the last day of school. There are a LOT of items in there which will be donated at the end of the school year. All items will be on display during the Art Walk on Wednesday, June 5.

 

9. Field Day!!!!

We will be holding our annual FIELD DAY events on Friday June 7th for grades K, 1, and 2 and on Monday June 10th for grades 3, 4, and 5.  6th grade will have field day on both days.

The emphasis of this year's Field Day is on problem solving, teamwork, and fun.  All of the events will be based on one or more of these objectives.  All students should leave each station with a positive feeling. 

The students need to dress appropriately.  Loose fitting clothes and sneakers will be essential for the students to participate in all of the events.  The weather will more than likely be warm, and it is very possible that they will get dirty, wet, and sweaty.  A hat can help to shield the sun and a towel because many of the activities will involve water.  If the students want to wear sunscreen or bug repellent, their parents must supervise the application at home before coming to school.

We are all very excited for this fun event!

 

10. PTA Executive Board Members Needed

The PTA is in need of nominations for the 2024-2025 VRES PTA Executive Board. To volunteer for a position, send an email to the nominating committee at [email protected] with the position for which you would like to run. 

Candidates may seek any position, but we currently have THREE positions looking for a candidate: VP of Fundraising, Treasurer and Secretary. The PTA Executive Board is required to have a Treasurer, Secretary and a President in order to operate. If we do not have the required positions to operate we will not be able to continue to provide the before/after school clubs, Science Quest, social events such as the Back to School Picnic, Fall Fest/Trunk or Treat, Viking Dash or staff appreciation lunches.

Please consider joining the Board. It should be noted, no position operates alone. We are all one Board and we support each other in every aspect! Come join our team!

Executive Board Positions and Job Descriptions

President - (required position) Preside over meetings, submit all necessary documents to stay compliant, coordinates the work of the officers and committees of the local PTA in order that the purposes may be promoted. Oversees the general operations of the PTA.- A required position for the PTA to run.

Secretary – (required position) Oversees and is in charge of all minutes/records/calendar for the PTA. The Secretary keeps the official copies of bylaws, is in charge of posting to social media different events and reminders; also maintains the PTA membership list.

Treasurer -(required position) Oversees and is in charge of all funds and finances of the PTA, which includes full and accurate accounting for all transactions, making disbursements and reimbursements as appropriate. The Treasurer presents a written financial statement at each meeting, prepares annual financial reports and submits required forms to the IRS for review.- A required position for the PTA to run.

VP of Fundraising - Oversees and is in charge of fundraising efforts for the PTA. Establish fundraising events through a membership drive, spirit wear, Viking Dash, restaurant spirit nights and any other fundraising opportunities. Without this position, funding for many of our social events, teacher appreciation activities and student assemblies may not possible.

VP of Education- Oversees and is in charge of all educational enrichments clubs/activities to include registration and vendor coordination of before/after school clubs. The VP of Education also coordinates two educational assemblies annually for the students and the annual Science Quest.

VP of Social- Oversees social events (Back to School picnic, Fall Fest/Trunk or Treat, BINGO, etc) organize staff appreciations breakfast/lunches, communicates with room parent coordinator, coordinates social events for the staff and the students in conjunction with celebrations throughout the year.

11. School Supply Pre-Orders

Make the summer stress free by pre-ordering school supplies for next year! Supplies will be delivered directly to the school and will be in your student's classroom in time for their classroom visit the week before school begins. 

Paper order forms will go home in the Wednesday folder on May 22. 

Order securely online now through June 25th!

  1. Go to www.educationalproducts.com/shoppacks.
  2. Enter the school ID, VIR003 (3 letters/3 numbers)
  3. Follow the directions to complete your order.
  4. Keep your online confirmation as your receipt.

Questions? Contact Sarah Cullen at [email protected].

12. Recognize Our VRES Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees, specifically at Virginia Run!

submit your story

 

13. Kindergarten and New Student Registration

Calling All New Vikings!

Virginia law requires that all children who will be 5 years old on or before September 30, 2024, must be enrolled in kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year. If you do not wish your child to attend school until the following year, you must notify the school in writing. 

If you have a child who will attend Virginia Run Elementary next year, please contact Betty Bancroft to register. This will allow accurate numbers for staffing and classes next year!

Register your child by:

For more information on registration requirements please visit https://www.fcps.edu/registration/kindergarten-registration

General kindergarten information can be found at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-school-academics-k-6/kindergarten

Please spread the word to your neighbors who will have children attending Virginia Run ES.

 

14. Kindergarten Orientation Presentation

Our Kindergarten Orientation was on May 3, 2024. If you were unable to attend, please use the link below to view the pdf presentation. 

VRES 2024 Kindergarten Orientation Presentation.pdf

 

15. Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 New Student Tours & Playdates

Welcome NEW Virginia Run Vikings! You are invited to bring your families and come to Virginia Run July 31st, for a tour of the school and to informally meet new friends. The kindergarten session will be from 9:00 am to 10:00 am and the grades 1 - 6 session will be from 10:00 am - 11:00 am. This event will include a bus ride around the neighborhood and a school tour by our very own staff members and administrators, followed by popsicles on the playground. Come out to meet new friends before the first day of school!

 

16. 2024 Summer P.E. Sports Camp

Our 2024 Summer P.E. Sports Camp is Monday, June 24, 2024 - Thursday, June 27, 2024. This 4-day camp at Virginia Run ES will offer a variety of different sports and activities for students in all grades. This camp is open to all VRES students in grades K - 6.

Contact VRES P.E. Instructor, Scott Rosenfeld, if you have any questions: [email protected]

Cost: $120 per participant

Register and Pay Online:

https://vrespta.ptboard.com/formvw/form?store=4128&form=20

REGISTRATION IS DUE BY MAY 24TH!

Registration Questions? Contact Kimberly Wilson: [email protected]

P.E. Summer Camp 2024 Flyer

 

17. Fairfax County Puzzle Hunt

Fairfax County is hosting its 1st Puzzle Hunt! 

When: Launches June 15, 2024

The Solving Fun Puzzle Pals have been hard at work, creating an exhilarating adventure for puzzle solvers. We are thrilled to announce the Fairfax County Puzzle Hunt, a unique community event that will take you on a journey to the wonderful parks in Fairfax County. Starting this summer, solve one puzzle or do them all. Puzzles are filled with creative thinking, logic, and wordplay. They are designed to be challenging and accessible for all skill levels. Solve the puzzles and then find clues at the parks for a final meta-puzzle. Walk, bike, and roll at our wonderful local parks with friends and family. For more information go to  www.solvingfun.com/fairfax.

 

18. Chronic Absenteeism - State Board SOA Decision Chronic Absenteeism - State Board SOA Decision

Last school year, the Virginia Board of Education decided to not suspend chronic absenteeism as part of school accreditation determinations. The Board’s rationale was a desire to send a strong message to schools, families, and students about the importance of regular attendance for student success. The Board decision means that schools with Level 3 (red) in any indicator—including chronic absenteeism—based on end-of-year data will receive “Accredited with Conditions” designation. 

Chronic Absenteeism is defined as missing 10% or more of the school year, regardless of reason.  A student is determined to be chronically absent if the rate of their days absent divided by their total days in membership is greater than or equal to 10%.

As of May 24th, Virginia Run is ranked 5% away from our chronic absenteeism rate being in the yellow with a school percentage of 10%. As we finish out the remainder of this school year, we will continue to update this percentage with you in hopes that we can join our Westfield pyramid schools for having an acceptable chronic absenteeism rate of 10% or lower.  One of our Virginia Run School Innovation and Improvement Plan goals is to reduce Tier 2 & Tier 3 level chronic absenteeism from 16% (last year)  to 10% or less in 2023-24.

REQUEST FOR PRE ARRANGED ABSENCE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

FCPS Excused absences include the following reasons: illness, injury, funeral, legal obligations, medical procedures, religious observances, deployment-related absences, or family emergency.

If the reason for this prearranged absence is different from the above, please indicate the reason for the absence. Parents must plan to arrange for their child to complete make-up work, tests, or projects. If the student's planned absences exceed five school days, a parent conference may be required. The conference will include a review of the student's academic and absence record. Students who are absent 15 or more consecutive school days will be withdrawn from enrollment.

Virginia Run Elementary School is committed to providing our students with a high quality education.  Academic success relies upon excellent school attendance.  Children who come to school on time every day are building critical life skills they will use throughout the rest of their lives.  Like strengthening a muscle, building positive attendance habits early on make a difference for our children today and for our adults of tomorrow.  Attending school regularly helps children feel better about school and themselves.  Virginia Run is teaming up with the other 9 schools in the Westfield Pyramid in an effort to make sure all of our students are in school, on time, each day.

Did you know?

  • Regular school attendance in grades preschool through grade 6 makes it more likely that your child will read on grade level. 
  • The 2024-25 school year calendar has been published and we highly recommend scheduling vacations around the school year calendar.  We have pasted the link below for your convenience:

https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf/2024-2025-standard-school-year-calendar.pdf

  • Even excused absences interfere with learning.
  • A pattern of absences (whether unexcused or excused) is one of the main reasons children have lower academic achievement.  
  • Students who attend 90% or more of the school year are more likely to graduate from high school on time.
  • Absences can mask deeper struggles. For example; absences may be a sign that a student is losing interest in school, he or she may be struggling with school work or peer relationships, or possibly facing a medical or mental health concern.

Support is available:

All staff members at Virginia Run ES are committed to supporting attendance. Additional resources can be found online at http://www.fcps.edu/attendance. We know that parents are the experts on their own child and our school team is here to partner and help solve attendance-related concerns.  The school counselor, school social worker, psychologist, and family liaison are available:

Leonor Arellano, School Counselor   [email protected]

Rachel Wyllie, School Counselor   [email protected]

Stephanie Whittaker, Social Worker   [email protected]

Jini Kapur, Psychologist   [email protected]

Carolina Chavez, Family Liaison    [email protected]

 

19. Important Upcoming Dates

5/31: Westfield HS Senior Grad Walk at Virginia Run, 3:00 pm - 3:30 pm

5/27: Student Holiday

6/4: Westfield High School Graduation, 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

6/5: Art Walk, Virginia Run, 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm

6/5: Band Concert, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm

6/6: Strings Concert, 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

6/7: Field Day, Grades K-2 & 6

6/10: Field Day, Grades 3-6

6/11: 6th Grade Celebration

6/12: 6th Grade Promotion, 9:30 am

6/12: Last Day of School - 2hr Early Release

 

20. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

 

15450 Martins Hundred Dr, Centreville, VA 20120  | Main Office: 703.988-8900

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

57 minutes 20 seconds ago
Virginia Run Elementary School News and announcements
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