FCPS

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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

 

November 20, 2024

🗓️ Calendar Reminder: Thanksgiving

Schools and offices will be closed Wednesday, November 27, through Friday, November 29. Classes will resume on Monday, December 2.

See the complete school year calendar.

 

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Return your Federal Impact Aid Survey
2. Thanksgiving Luncheon
3. FCPS Cares
4. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
5. Viking Math Corner
6. Lexia Parent Night
7. Get 2 Green Parent Volunteers Needed
8. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
9. PTA Meeting Dates
10. Red Robin Spirit Night
11. PTA Fundraisers
12. Important Upcoming Dates
13. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
14. Monthly Lunch Menu

 

1. Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey ONLINE. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

If you received a paper form, they should be returned by Monday, December 4.

Completing this form for EACH school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

 

2. Thanksgiving Luncheon

Our Thanksgiving Luncheon is tomorrow, Thursday, November 21st. 

We will not be selling tickets on the day of the Thanksgiving lunch. ALL tickets should have been purchased in advance.

If you are attending, please remember to bring your license to sign in on our Visitor Management System. 

There is a change in the lunch time for Kindergarten, 2nd and 5th grade only. All other lunch times will stay the same. Please see the lunch times below:    

4th Grade Lunch:  11:00 – 11:30am 

3rd Grade Lunch:  11:30 – 12:00pm

6th Grade  Lunch:  12:00 – 12:30pm

1st Grade Lunch:  12:30 - 1:00pm

2nd Grade Lunch:  12:50 – 1:20pm 

5th Grade Lunch:  1:10 – 1:40pm

Kindergarten:  1:30 – 2:00pm

 

3. 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

 

4. Positivity Project at Virginia Run

Over these next two weeks, our school community will focus on the character strength of Gratitude. Gratitude means being aware of and grateful for good things that happen.

Gratitude is about feeling and showing thankfulness. It helps us see the good in others and in the world. People with gratitude are ready to appreciate and return kindness. Expert Robert Emmons says gratitude strengthens relationships because it makes us recognize how others support us.

Out of all 24 character strengths, gratitude is the single best predictor of individual well-being. It is linked to more energy, empathy, happiness, and optimism. The good news is that gratitude can be practiced and strengthened like a muscle. The more we practice it, the more benefits we get.

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

 

5. Viking Math Corner

Students in 2nd grade are working on their fact fluency (addition and subtraction) with numbers up to 20. Teachers use meaningful lessons and games that support students in developing efficient strategies to learn their facts.  Check out the pictures below to see students in action!

6. Lexia Parent Night

Lexia Parent Nights: Curious to know more about Lexia Core5 and Lexia Power Up? Lexia will be offering Parent Nights throughout the 24-25 SY. The next session will be held virtually on December 5, 6:30-7:30. Register Here.  More information regarding the Lexia Parent Nights can be found on Family Academy Site or in the translated fliers below.

• Arabic
• Chinese
• English
• Korean
• Spanish
• Vietnamese
• Urdu

 

7. Get 2 Green Parent Volunteers Needed

Do you have a green thumb? Are you willing to work with students on our Get 2 Green team at Virginia Run? Ms. Berg and Ms. Roberts are looking for 3-4 parent volunteers who are interested in taking care of our Virginia Run Garden.

Please reach out to Ms. Berg. [email protected], if you are interested. 

 

8. 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].

 

9. PTA Meeting Dates for 2024-2025

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

2/11 – General Meeting

3/11 – General Meeting

4/8 – General Meeting

5/13- General Meeting

 

10. Red Robin Spirit Night

Red Robin Spirit Night is THIS Thursday, November 21, 2024 at the Red Robin in Chantilly, 14450 Chantilly Crossing Lane. Show the flyer that was sent home today in the Wednesday folder or simply mention the fundraiser to your server. You may also order online at redrobin.com or on the Red Robin mobile app.

**For online and mobile app orders:  Add the fundraiser to your cart (“Fundraiser To-Go”) if you’re ordering online. You can find this at the bottom of the menu categories on the online ordering homepage or mobile app.

Please contact Amanda Prindle at [email protected] with any questions!

VRES PTA will receive 20% of fundraiser sales during this day! 

Red Robin Spirit Night Flyer

 

11. PTA Fundraisers

• Fun Land Fundraiser

Save the date! PTA is sponsoring a fundraiser at Fun Land , 5111 Westfields Blvd, Centreville, on Thursday, December 5, 2024 from 4:00 - 9:00 PM. Enjoy over 100 amazing arcade games, go-karts, laser tag, ropes course, and rock climbing. Each participant will receive a 3 hour unlimited attractions pass along with a $10 arcade card for only $20 per person! Purchase at the door. Must say you are with VRES.

Fun Land Fundraiser Flyer

• 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!

• Card My Yard

Support our school by using Card My Yard Centreville! Our school receives $10 for each order. You will save $10 too. Use the code VRESCVILLE10 when ordering. 

Card My Yard Flyer - English

Card My Yard Flyer - Spanish

• Garden for Wildlife

Support VRES PTA by ordering native plants from the Gardening for Wildlife by the National Wildlife Federation to support pollinators in your yard!  🐝

VRES PTA earns 15% on every sale!

Buy sets of plants pre-created or make your own set!

Pre-order now and plants will ship at the time that is appropriate for your region!

This fundraiser helps us, the environment, and local wildlife. Buy native plants!

The butterflies will thank you! 🦋

Visit Garden for Wildlife to order today!

PTA Board - Garden for Wildlife Fundraiser

12. Important Upcoming Dates

11/21: Thanksgiving Lunch - All Grade Levels - Parents Invited

11/21: Red Robin Spirit Day

11/22: 6th Grade Field Trip - Hemlock

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

12/5: Fun Land Fundraiser from 4 - 8 PM

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

12/11: Winter Chorus Concert

12/18: Chick-fil-A Spirit Night from 4 - 8 PM

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 PM0

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

6/9: Westfield High School Graduation at 9:30 AM

6/11: Virginia Run ES 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony at 9:30AM

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

 

13. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

14. 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

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

 

November 13, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Return your Federal Impact Aid Survey
2. Thanksgiving Luncheon
3. FCPS Cares
4. Dr. Recess visits VRES
5. Testing Notification 
6. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
7. Get 2 Green Parent Volunteers Needed
8. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
9. PTA Meeting Dates
10. VRES Bingo Night
11. PTA Sponsored After-school Music Classes
12. PTA Fundraisers
13. Important Upcoming Dates
14. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
15. Monthly Lunch Menu

 

1. Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey ONLINE. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

Schools will provide paper forms to families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE by Monday, November 18. Paper forms should be returned by Monday, December 4.

Completing this form for EACH school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

 

2. Thanksgiving Luncheon

Our Thanksgiving tradition is back! Please join us for the annual Thanksgiving Luncheon on Thursday, November 21st.  Parents of students in K-6 are invited to come and eat lunch with their child on this day. The menu includes the traditional thanksgiving turkey meal.  

If you would like to purchase a parent or non-student (sibling) lunch on this day, tickets must be purchased in advance.  Lunch tickets are available for purchase through November 18th. The price for parents and non-Virginia Run students is $4.25. Cash or Checks ONLY. Cash must be exact.  Any extra monies collected over the lunch amount, will be donated to a local account used for student needs.  Please make checks payable to “VRES Cafeteria”. Payment through My School Bucks (MSB) will NOT be available for parent lunch purchase.  Students that normally purchase lunch, will have their account charged that day.  If a student normally brings lunch but wants to buy, the price is $3.25.  This will need to be purchased in advance as well.

Again, we will not be selling tickets on the day of the Thanksgiving lunch.  ALL tickets must be purchased in advance.

There will be a change in the lunch time for Kindergarten, 2nd and 5th grade only. All other lunch times will stay the same. Please see the lunch times below:    

4th Grade Lunch:  11:00 – 11:30am 

3rd Grade Lunch:  11:30 – 12:00pm

6th Grade  Lunch:  12:00 – 12:30pm

1st Grade Lunch:  12:30 - 1:00pm

2nd Grade Lunch:  12:50 – 1:20pm 

5th Grade Lunch:  1:10 – 1:40pm

Kindergarten:  1:30 – 2:00pm

Thanksgiving Luncheon 2024

 

3. 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

 

4. Dr. Recess Visits VRES - THANK YOU PTA 

VRES PTA funded a visit from Dr. Recess, he teaches students fun, safe, and exciting games to play at recess to get moving and have a good time. PK- 6th graders participated and then practiced the games during recess that day. 

5. Testing Notification

The online version of the Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test Third Edition (NNAT3) will be administered to all first-grade students on Wednesday, November 20th. It is important that your child attend school on this day. If possible, please avoid scheduling trips or appointments that would take your child out of school during this time period. It is also important that your child has had a good night’s rest and a healthy breakfast before testing. 

The NNAT3 is a nonverbal measure of general intellectual ability. The test evaluates a student’s reasoning and problem-solving skills through the identification of patterns involving geometric shapes and pictorial designs. The test is designed to assess ability without requiring the student to read, write, or speak. Students are not expected to know the answers to all questions and will be given opportunities to practice sample items before taking the test. The NNAT3 is an abilities test, so children are not expected to study or prepare for the test the way they would for an achievement test. 

Score reports will be provided to parents once scores become available. Typically, these reports are available several months after the test is taken. If you have any questions about this test, please contact the Advanced Academics Resource Teacher (AART), Brittany Wade, or School Test Coordinators, Lauren Arreaza and Kelly Coulter, at your child's school.

 

6. Positivity Project at Virginia Run

This week is a review week for the positivity project, to reinforce traits learned so far. Last week our school focused on Bravery. Bravery means you act with mental, moral, or physical strength, even when you know things are difficult or scary. Bravery refers to voluntary (not coerced) action in the face of a dangerous circumstance. This strength involves judgment; the brave person must have an understanding of the risks and consequences involved in acting. According to Socrates and Plato, forethought separates acts of valor from acts of rashness. This means that bravery isn’t simply fearlessness but instead the overcoming of fear.

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

 

7. Get 2 Green Parent Volunteers Needed

Do you have a green thumb? Are you willing to work with students on our Get 2 Green team at Virginia Run? Ms. Berg and Ms. Roberts are looking for 3-4 parent volunteers who are interested in taking care of our Virginia Run Garden.

Please reach out to Ms. Berg. [email protected], if you are interested. 

 

8. 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].

 

9. PTA Meeting Dates for 2024-2025

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

2/11 – General Meeting

3/11 – General Meeting

4/8 – General Meeting

5/13- General Meeting

 

10. VRES Bingo Night

Bingo Night is on Thursday, November 14 in the VRES cafeteria! This is a great opportunity to spend time with family and friends, win prizes, and have fun! Concession sales sponsored by the 6th Grade Celebration Committee will begin at 6:00 PM and Bingo starts at 6:30 PM. One individual booklet of ten Bingo cards (one card for each round) is $3 or you can purchase a family pack of four game booklets for $10. There is no need to register ahead of time. You can just show up and pay at the door!

If you have any questions, please contact Cara Priester at [email protected] or Donna-Rose Dingee at [email protected].

 

11. PTA Sponsored After-school Music Classes 

Hello parents! 

Don't miss the chance to register your child for after-school music classes which start next week!

https://www.musicallycreative.com/ptaprograms.html

Vikings in Grades 3-6 can choose to learn Piano or Guitar. Keyboards will be provided for piano students. Guitar students must bring their own guitar. Instructors are VRES music teachers Mr. Tyler (piano) and Ms. Berg (guitar)!   

Please contact Kimberly Wilson with questions: [email protected].

 

12. PTA Fundraisers

• 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!

• Card My Yard

Support our school by using Card My Yard Centreville! Our school receives $10 for each order. You will save $10 too. Use the code VRESCVILLE10 when ordering. 

Card My Yard Flyer - English

Card My Yard Flyer - Spanish

• Garden for Wildlife

Support VRES PTA by ordering native plants from the Gardening for Wildlife by the National Wildlife Federation to support pollinators in your yard!  🐝

VRES PTA earns 15% on every sale!

Buy sets of plants pre-created or make your own set!

Pre-order now and plants will ship at the time that is appropriate for your region!

This fundraiser helps us, the environment, and local wildlife. Buy native plants!

The butterflies will thank you! 🦋

Visit Garden for Wildlife to order today!

PTA Board - Garden for Wildlife Fundraiser

13. Important Upcoming Dates

11/21: Thanksgiving Lunch - All Grade Levels - Parents Invited

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 PM0

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

6/9: Westfield High School Graduation at 9:30 AM

6/11: Virginia Run ES 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony at 9:30AM

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

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

15. 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

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

 

November 6, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Strategic Plan 2023-30
2. Important Upcoming Dates
3. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
4. Monthly Lunch Menu

1. Strategic Plan 2023-30

Fairfax County Public Schools' new strategic plan presents our vision and goals as a leading public school division that is committed to delivering excellence, equity, and opportunity in education. With this plan, we are beginning a transformative journey to ensure that each and every student reaches their greatest potential. 

The culmination of the strategic planning work resulted in the development of five student-centered goals, measures to monitor the progress toward those goals, equity commitments to support each and every student with attaining those goals, and four pillars that identify what FCPS must do well to reach these goals. This plan will guide the work of FCPS through 2030. 

✨ Our Commitment to Excellence, Equity, and Opportunity for Each and Every Student

FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid reminds us of the goals of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which guides us in delivering excellence, equity, and opportunity for each and every one of our students. Watch Dr. Reid’s message.

_______________________________________________________________

Four Pillars:

✨ 2023-30 Strategic Plan: Foundation of Four Pillars

While the five goals of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan focus on student success, the four pillars describe what FCPS must do well to reach our goals for all students:

• The first focus of the pillars is on teaching and learning. We want to make sure each and every student has access to excellent and inclusive learning environments, and that instruction meets students’ individual needs.
• The second pillar focuses on our connection with families and our communities. We cannot do this work alone. Strong partnerships are key to our students’ success.
• The third pillar is centered on our hiring and maintaining a world class, diverse workforce. We want to make sure our incredible employees have what they need to help our students thrive.
• The fourth and final pillar centers on how we bring this all together. We remain focused on creating a culture of equity, excellence, and accountability where data guides our decisions. 

Visit our Strategic Plan webpage for more information. 

 

Goals:

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. 

Each goal has an equity commitment — the promise we make to every student to support them in attaining these goals. Each goal also has several measures that allow us to track our progress.

 

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 1: Strong Start, Pre-K-12

The first goal in the strategic plan focuses on each and every student having a strong start in FCPS. Whether they're joining us in preschool or in high school, we want our students to be set up for success. See how Goal 1 is being put into practice. 

 

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, Empowered

The Office of Food and Nutrition Services' updates to lunch menus align with FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal #2 - Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered. The new menu options reflect the many voices and cultures represented around every FCPS lunch table!

As part of the second goal, we want each and every student to feel like they belong and have the support they need to thrive. See how Goal 2 is being put into practice.

• 🍽️Fueling Student Success: New Food Options Cooked up at FCPS

Students will have more than a dozen new options for lunch and breakfast in school cafeterias starting this week. New menu items were either favorites at last year’s food show — including Korean BBQ wings, sweet Thai chili wings, chicken tikka masala, and barbacoa street tacos — or were tested with student focus groups and tastings. 

View our school menu to see all the new options and when they will become available. 

 

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence

Our third goal is for all students to achieve academic growth and excellence. We want our students to have the academic skills to be successful. For example, making sure they are readers by third grade and taking courses that challenge them throughout their education will help prepare them for lifelong success. See how Goal 3 is being put into practice. 

• Successfully Completing Algebra 1 by Eighth Grade

Helping students to complete Algebra 1 by eighth grade is part of our FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence. 

Passing Algebra 1 earlier allows for students to take more advanced classes like Dual Enrollment courses, Advanced Placement (AP), and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses. These advanced courses help students succeed in college. A recent study from the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) found that completing Algebra 1 by grade eight led to 30% more ninth graders and 16% more 11th graders taking advanced courses. 

• 📖 Students Reading on Level by the Third Grade

FCPS has continued to improve its approach to reading over the last several years through our Equitable Access to Literacy (EAL) plan. Reading by third grade is also one of the measures of Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence in our 2023-30 Strategic Plan. 

By focusing on foundational skills for our young readers and literacy intervention for upper grades, FCPS has made significant progress toward narrowing the achievement gaps in this critical skill. Visit the Strategic Plan webpage for more information. 

 

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 4: Equitable Access to Opportunities

The fourth goal ensures all students have the same access to opportunities, no matter what school they attend. This includes academics and other programs that inspire and engage students and allow them to explore their passions and talents. See how Goal 4 is being put into practice.

 

✨ 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 5: Leading for Tomorrow's Innovation

Under Goal 5, every student will graduate ready to thrive in life after high school with the skills they need to navigate, adapt, and innovate for a sustainable future. Using data gathered from students, we will ensure they are ready for a wide variety of options for their futures. 

Visit FCPS’ Strategic Plan webpage to learn more about how we will measure the success of Goal 5. 

 

2. Important Upcoming Dates

11/11: Veterans Day- Student Holiday

11/21: Thanksgiving Lunch - All Grade Levels - Parents Invited

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 PM0

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

6/9: Westfield High School Graduation at 9:30 AM

6/11: Virginia Run ES 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony at 9:30AM

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 

 

3. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

4. 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

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

 

October 30, 2024

Calendar Reminders

Thursday, October 31, is the last day of the first quarter and a two-hour early release for students.

Friday, November 1, is a holiday for Diwali, Dia de los Muertos, and All Saints Day. All schools and offices will be closed.

Schools will be closed for students on Monday, November 4, for a school planning day, and Tuesday, November 5, for a teacher workday.

See the complete school year calendar.

 

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Return your Federal Impact Aid Survey
2. Thanksgiving Luncheon
3. Viking Math Corner
4. Technology at Home
5. FCPS Cares
6. Testing Notification 
7. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
8. Attention Parents of 4th Graders - Veterans Day Concert
9. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
10. PTA Meeting Dates
11. Spirit Wear Update
12. VRES Bingo Night
13. PTA Fundraisers
14. Westfield HS DECA Shoe Drive
15. Westfield HS Fall Play
16. Westfield HS Theatre Student Workshop
17. Important Upcoming Dates
18. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
19. Monthly Lunch Menu

 

1. Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

Schools will provide paper forms to families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE by Monday, November 11. Paper forms should be returned by Monday, December 4.

Completing this form for EACH school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

 

2. Thanksgiving Luncheon

Our Thanksgiving tradition is back! Please join us for the annual Thanksgiving Luncheon on Thursday, November 21st.  Parents of students in K-6 are invited to come and eat lunch with their child on this day. The menu includes the traditional thanksgiving turkey meal.  

If you would like to purchase a parent or non-student (sibling) lunch on this day, tickets must be purchased in advance.  Lunch tickets are available for purchase through November 18th. The price for parents and non-Virginia Run students is $4.25. Cash or Checks ONLY. Cash must be exact.  Any extra monies collected over the lunch amount, will be donated to a local account used for student needs.  Please make checks payable to “VRES Cafeteria”. Payment through My School Bucks (MSB) will NOT be available for parent lunch purchase.  Students that normally purchase lunch, will have their account charged that day.  If a student normally brings lunch but wants to buy, the price is $3.25.  This will need to be purchased in advance as well.

Again, we will not be selling tickets on the day of the Thanksgiving lunch.  ALL tickets must be purchased in advance.

There will be a change in the lunch time for Kindergarten, 2nd and 5th grade only. All other lunch times will stay the same. Please see the lunch times below:    

4th Grade Lunch:  11:00 – 11:30am 

3rd Grade Lunch:  11:30 – 12:00pm

6th Grade  Lunch:  12:00 – 12:30pm

1st Grade Lunch:  12:30 - 1:00pm

2nd Grade Lunch:  12:50 – 1:20pm 

5th Grade Lunch:  1:10 – 1:40pm

Kindergarten:  1:30 – 2:00pm

Thanksgiving Luncheon 2024

 

3. Viking Math Corner

Goal 3 of the FCPS Strategic Plan is Academic Growth and Excellence. One measurement of this goal is that all students will successfully complete Algebra 1 by 8th grade.  The work to support all students to reach this goal begins in Kindergarten. One way we are preparing students in grades K-6 is by noticing and naming Computational Thinking skills in math and discussing how these skills can help us become stronger mathematicians. Computational thinking includes being able to identify and reflect on patterns, models, and steps to problem solve and make connections.  Below are the 4 skills we will be focusing on this year (taken from the FCPS planning and pacing guide).

•   Pattern analysis:  Finding similarities, differences, and repetitions in information.
•   Decomposition: Breaking apart contexts and numbers into smaller parts to make the problem easier to solve.
•   Algorithmic Thinking: Developing, testing, and improving sequential steps. Note: This is different from traditional “algorithms” in math.
•   Abstraction: Simplifying or filtering information, sometimes by creating a model that helps to understand the problem and communicate big ideas.

 

4. Technology at Home

We are excited to share that our school website is a valuable resource that can significantly enhance your child's learning experience both in and out of the classroom. With a wealth of educational materials, interactive tools, and important announcements, our website offers a convenient way to stay connected to your child's academic progress.  

You can find our Tech Tools at https://virginiarunes.fcps.edu/resources/tech-tools. 

 

Virginia Run representing during the Westfield Homecoming parade!

 

5. 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

 

It was a beautiful day for the 2nd Grade Book Parade!

 

6. Testing Notification

The online version of the Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test Third Edition (NNAT3) will be administered to all first-grade students on Wednesday, November 20th. It is important that your child attend school on this day. If possible, please avoid scheduling trips or appointments that would take your child out of school during this time period. It is also important that your child has had a good night’s rest and a healthy breakfast before testing. 

The NNAT3 is a nonverbal measure of general intellectual ability. The test evaluates a student’s reasoning and problem-solving skills through the identification of patterns involving geometric shapes and pictorial designs. The test is designed to assess ability without requiring the student to read, write, or speak. Students are not expected to know the answers to all questions and will be given opportunities to practice sample items before taking the test. The NNAT3 is an abilities test, so children are not expected to study or prepare for the test the way they would for an achievement test. 

Score reports will be provided to parents once scores become available. Typically, these reports are available several months after the test is taken. If you have any questions about this test, please contact the Advanced Academics Resource Teacher (AART), Brittany Wade, or School Test Coordinators, Lauren Arreaza and Kelly Coulter, at your child's school.

 

It was a beautiful day last Friday for Mrs. Tulk’s class to have a Popsicle Party and celebrate winning the PTA Membership drive 3rd thru 6th grade!

 

7. Positivity Project at Virginia Run

This week, our school community will focus on the Other People Mindset of Knowing That My Words and Actions Affect Others, which means having an awareness that everything that we say and do can affect others — and our relationships with them.

Whether we speak, email, text, or post, our words and actions can have a positive or negative effect. The words and actions we choose can lift others up or bring them down, and they also impact us. When we all think carefully about our words and actions and show respect and care for those around us, we create a happier and healthier community.

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

 

8. Attention Parents of 4th Graders - Veterans Day Concert

Veterans Day is on November 11, 2024. The 4th grader's Veterans Day Concert will be on Friday, November 8th. This program will showcase the entire 4th grade singing in unity to honor the armed forces and our veterans. There will be two performances in the cafeteria on November 8th at 9:45 am and 2:45 pm. Parents are invited to attend the 2:45 pm performance however, if you cannot make that one you are welcome to attend the 9:45 am performance.

Attire for students for both concerts is casual with a patriotic or red, white, and/or blue theme.

 

It was a beautiful day last Friday for Mrs. Spezzano’s class to have a Popsicle Party and celebrate winning the PTA Membership drive K thru 2nd! 

 

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.

11/12 – General Meeting

2/11 – General Meeting

3/11 – General Meeting

4/8 – General Meeting

5/13- General Meeting

 

Kindergarten had a blast celebrating Pumpkin Day!

 

11. Spirit Wear Update

Thank you to those who purchased Spirit Wear!

We are estimating your order should be ready by the first week of November and will be sent home with your student.

We appreciate your patience and thank you for your support!  

 

12. VRES Bingo Night

The Virginia Run PTA is hosting Bingo Night on Thursday, November 14, 2024 in the VRES cafeteria at 6:30 PM. Snacks, candy, and drink sales in support of the Sixth Grad Celebration begin at 6:00 PM.

Registration Options:

• Complete form sent home in the Wednesday folder and send in with payment in an envelope marked PTA Bingo Night. Checks made payable to “Virginia Run PTA”.
• Pay at the door. Zelle, Paypal, and Venmo will be accepted. There will be a QR code set up to scan for your convenience.

Every student should be accompanied by an adult. Questions? Contact Cara Priester at [email protected] or Donna-Rose Dingee at [email protected]. 

VRES BINGO NIGHT Fall 2024

 

13. PTA Fundraisers

• 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!

• Card My Yard

Support our school by using Card My Yard Centreville! Our school receives $10 for each order. You will save $10 too. Use the code VRESCVILLE10 when ordering. 

Card My Yard Flyer - English

Card My Yard Flyer - Spanish

• Garden for Wildlife

Support VRES PTA by ordering native plants from the Gardening for Wildlife by the National Wildlife Federation to support pollinators in your yard!  🐝

VRES PTA earns 15% on every sale!

Buy sets of plants pre-created or make your own set!

Pre-order now and plants will ship at the time that is appropriate for your region!

This fundraiser helps us, the environment, and local wildlife. Buy native plants!

The butterflies will thank you! 🦋

Visit Garden for Wildlife to order today!

PTA Board - Garden for Wildlife Fundraiser

14. Westfield HS DECA Shoe Drive

Westfield High School’s DECA is partnering with funds2go to host a shoe collection fundraiser during October and November. Donated shoes should be gently used or new. The shoes collected will be sent to developing countries to help create job opportunities. Funds2go provides over 4,000 micro-entrepreneurs with shoes to serve as inventory for their small businesses. This collection of shoes helps these business owners support their families. 

Donations can be dropped off at:

Bull Run Elementary
Virginia Run Elementary
Stone Middle School
Floris Elementary
Oakton High School
Westfield High School

Each school may have placed their drop-off bins in different locations around the school, so make sure to double check that you have the correct drop off location.

Please see the flyer for more information.

WHS DECA Shoe Drive Flyer

 

15. Westfield HS Fall Play

Westfield High School Theatre PresentsA Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare

Nov. 7, 8 and 9 at 7 pm and Nov. 9 at 2 pm

Tickets: $15 adult, $10 student. All seats reserved.

A Midsummer Night's Dream Poster

All info found at www.westfieldtheatre.com.

 

16. Westfield HS Theatre Student Workshop

Westfield High School Theatre presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream student workshop. Workshop includes theatre games, snacks, backstage tour, and an immersive high school theatre experience. 

Scan QR code on the flyer for FREE registration and for more information.

Where: Westfield High School, 4700 Stonecroft Blvd, Chantilly

Who: 4th - 8th Graders

When: November 1st, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Westfield Theatre-Midsummer Workshop Flyer

www.westfieldtheatre.com

 

17. Important Upcoming Dates

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

11/21: Thanksgiving Lunch - All Grade Levels - Parents Invited

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 PM0

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

6/9: Westfield High School Graduation at 9:30 AM

6/11: Virginia Run ES 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony at 9:30AM

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

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

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

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

 

October 23, 2024

REMINDER

10/28 - Early Release Monday

Virginia Run will release students at 1:00 PM

 

IN THIS ISSUE

1. AAP Full Time Screening Parent Information Night
2. Technology at Home
3. Outstanding Staff Nominations
4. FCPS Cares
5. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
6. SCA Service Project
7. Veterans Day Collage
8. Attention Parents of 4th Graders - Veterans Day Concert
9. Hispanic Heritage Month
10. Join the VRES PTA
11. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
12. PTA Meeting Dates
13. PTA Social Vice President Needed
14. Spirit Wear Update
15. PTA Fundraisers
16. Westfield HS DECA Shoe Drive
17. Westfield HS Theatre Student Workshop
18. Important Upcoming Dates
19. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
20. Monthly Lunch Menu

 

1. AAP Full Time Screening Parent Information Night

AAP (Advanced Academic Program) Full Time Screening Parent Information Night

Please join us on Tuesday, October 29 from 7:00 - 8:00 PM, in the VRES Library, to find out more about the winter screening process for full time placement in the Advanced Academic Program.

This information is targeted for families with 2nd – 6th grade students.

Ms. Wade, our Advanced Academic Resource Teacher, will share information about the screening process and the required components.

The winter referral deadline for level IV referral forms is December 15th 2024.  

More information and referral forms can be found here.

Please contact [email protected] with any questions. 

 

We would like to thank the PTA, families, students, and staff for the Fall Festival, Book Fair, and Trunk or Treat events this past Friday. 

 

2. Technology at Home

We are excited to share that our school website is a valuable resource that can significantly enhance your child's learning experience both in and out of the classroom. With a wealth of educational materials, interactive tools, and important announcements, our website offers a convenient way to stay connected to your child's academic progress.  

You can find our Tech Tools at https://virginiarunes.fcps.edu/resources/tech-tools. 

 

Rylynn, a facility dog, came to visit Virginia Run!!

 

3. Outstanding Staff Nominations

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a VRES employee, please use this form to submit your nominations. You may nominate one employee per category.

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in one or more of the criteria for that award category. 

The deadline to submit a nomination is Wednesday, October 30th at 4:00 PM.

Virginia Run Teacher List 2024-2025

If you have any questions, please contact Kelly Coulter at [email protected].

 

4. 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

 

Pre School had fun celebrating Pumpkin Day! 

 

5. Positivity Project at Virginia Run

This week, our school will focus on the character strength of Creativity. Creativity means coming up with new and original ways to think about and do things.

Creative people see the world differently. They are open to new experiences and think independently. They come up with many ideas and pursue them with energy and enthusiasm. Creativity takes courage because sharing original ideas can sometimes lead to criticism.

Creativity is vital to our world! Creative solutions can help resolve conflicts and find compromises that satisfy everyone involved, strengthening relationships. It helps us solve tough problems, create new things, and see the world in fresh ways. Examples include treatments for deadly illnesses, such as cancer, the invention of the cell phone, and the development of solar panels. Imagine life without Impressionist paintings or the creation of airplanes and rocket ships.

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

 

6. SCA Service Project  

The students in the SCA are partnering with the Fairfax Department of Family Services to gather new hygiene products for families in need. If you would like to help, students may bring in the items below from October 14 - October 25. Please consider various ages, genders, and cultural needs. Collection boxes will be in the lobby. Thank you for supporting our students as they demonstrate Ethical and Global Citizenship!

PK/K: Clorox wipes and toilet paper

1st: Shampoo and conditioner

2nd: Other hair products, brushes and combs

3rd: Chapstick and deodorant

4th: Lotion, soap, and body wash

5th: Toothpaste, floss, toothbrushes, and mouthwash

6th: Baby shampoo, wash, and wipes

 

Ms. Berg and Mrs. Roberts lead the Get2Green team in discussing and completing the energy use survey with the student Get2Green team.

 

7. Veterans Day Collage

Every year at Virginia Run, the 4th graders put on a Veterans Day assembly to honor our Veterans from every branch of the military. As a way of honoring our Veterans from the Virginia Run community Ms. Berg, Ms. Adkins and Ms. Tuben will be putting together a collage of pictures of Veterans, past and present, to display from November 6 – November 15. This collage will be on display on the wall near the cafeteria. Feel free to email Ms. Berg ([email protected]) a picture of a Veteran from your family. If you have several Veterans in your family, we welcome multiple pictures. Please be sure to include who the Veteran is in your family (grandpa, aunt, etc.) and their full name and rank. This is for ALL Veterans past and present. If you have a relative who did not return home from their service, please know that we plan to honor these servicemen and women in May for Memorial Day. Please submit all photos by Monday, October 28, 2024. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Berg. Thank you!

**Please note that if you have submitted photos in previous years, they will be on display so there is no need to resubmit.

 

8. Attention Parents of 4th Graders - Veterans Day Concert

Veterans Day is on November 11, 2024. The 4th grader's Veterans Day Concert will be on Friday, November 8th. This program will showcase the entire 4th grade singing in unity to honor the armed forces and our veterans. There will be two performances in the cafeteria on November 8th at 9:45 am and 2:45 pm. Parents are invited to attend the 2:45 pm performance however, if you cannot make that one you are welcome to attend the 9:45 am performance.

Attire for students for both concerts is casual with a patriotic or red, white, and/or blue theme.

 

5th Grade took a Field Trip to Luray Caverns!!

 

9. Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated every year from September 15th to October 15th. It was originally established in 1968 as a week-long celebration by California Congressman George E. Brown. In 1988, President George H.W. Bush expanded the celebration to a full month. This time frame is used to celebrate the cultures and contributions of Hispanics and all Latin Americans. Several Latin American countries celebrate their independence during this time. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua all celebrate their Independence Day on September 15th. Mexico’s Independence Day is September 16th, and Chile’s Independence Day on September 18th.  During this time students of all grade levels learned about different Hispanic and Latin American musicians in music class. This year students learned about Tito Puente, Celia Cruz, Carlos Santana, and Selena Quintanilla. We encourage you to talk to your children about who and what they learned during this year’s Hispanic Heritage month and reflect on the impact that Hispanic and Latin American cultures have had on America and American culture.

10. 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

 

11. 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].

 

12. PTA Meeting Dates for 2024-2025

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

11/12 – General Meeting

2/11 – General Meeting

3/11 – General Meeting

4/8 – General Meeting

5/13- General Meeting

 

13. 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!

 

14. Spirit Wear Update

Thank you to those who purchased Spirit Wear!

We are estimating your order should be ready by the first week of November and will be sent home with your student.

We appreciate your patience and thank you for your support!  

 

15. PTA Fundraisers

• 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!

• Card My Yard

Support our school by using Card My Yard Centreville! Our school receives $10 for each order. You will save $10 too. Use the code VRESCVILLE10 when ordering. 

Card My Yard Flyer - English

Card My Yard Flyer - Spanish

• Garden for Wildlife

Support VRES PTA by ordering native plants from the Gardening for Wildlife by the National Wildlife Federation to support pollinators in your yard!  🐝

VRES PTA earns 15% on every sale!

Buy sets of plants pre-created or make your own set!

Pre-order now and plants will ship at the time that is appropriate for your region!

This fundraiser helps us, the environment, and local wildlife. Buy native plants!

The butterflies will thank you! 🦋

Visit Garden for Wildlife to order today!

PTA Board - Garden for Wildlife Fundraiser

16. Westfield HS DECA Shoe Drive

Westfield High School’s DECA is partnering with funds2go to host a shoe collection fundraiser during October and November. Donated shoes should be gently used or new. The shoes collected will be sent to developing countries to help create job opportunities. Funds2go provides over 4,000 micro-entrepreneurs with shoes to serve as inventory for their small businesses. This collection of shoes helps these business owners support their families. 

Donations can be dropped off at:

Bull Run Elementary
Virginia Run Elementary
Stone Middle School
Floris Elementary
Oakton High School
Westfield High School

Each school may have placed their drop-off bins in different locations around the school, so make sure to double check that you have the correct drop off location.

Please see the flyer for more information.

WHS DECA Shoe Drive Flyer

 

17. Westfield HS Theatre Student Workshop

Westfield High School Theatre presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream student workshop. Workshop includes theatre games, snacks, backstage tour, and an immersive high school theatre experience. 

Scan QR code on the flyer for FREE registration and for more information.

Where: Westfield High School, 4700 Stonecroft Blvd, Chantilly

Who: 4th - 8th Graders

When: November 1st, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Westfield Theatre-Midsummer Workshop Flyer

www.westfieldtheatre.com

 

18. Important Upcoming Dates

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

11/21: Thanksgiving Lunch - All Grade Levels - Parents Invited

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 PM0

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

6/9: Westfield High School Graduation at 9:30 AM

6/11: Virginia Run ES 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony at 9:30AM

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 

 

19. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

20. 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

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

 

October 16, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Early Release Mondays Letter
2. AAP Full Time Screening Parent Information Night
3. Viking Math Corner
4. What’s happening in P.E.?
5. Fairfax County Youth Survey Parent Notice
6. Technology at Home
7. Outstanding Staff Nominations
8. FCPS Cares
9. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
10. VRES Scholastic Book Fair
11. Veterans Day Collage
12. Attention Parents of 4th Graders - Veterans Day Concert
13. PTA Social Vice President Needed
14. Join the VRES PTA
15. Virginia Run Fall Fun Night is this Friday!
16. PTA Fall Fun Night Volunteers and Donations
17. Donut Drive-Thru Pick-up Reminder
18. No Fuss Fundraiser!
19. SCA Service Project
20. Card My Yard 
21. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
22. PTA Meeting Dates
23. Westfield HS DECA Shoe Drive
24. Important Upcoming Dates
25. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
26. Monthly Lunch Menu

 

1. Early Release Monday Letters 

Today every student will bring a GREEN 3 Hour Early Release Monday letter home in his/her Wednesday Envelope. The responses you provide on this letter will set a default dismissal plan for your student(s) for the remaining 3 Hour Early Release Mondays this year. All letters are due back to homeroom teachers by Friday, October 18th. Any future changes to your child’s dismissal on a 3 Hour Early Release Monday must be communicated to the main office (703-988-8900) by the Thursday prior.

 3 Hour Early Release Mondays:

• October 28th
• December 9thF
• February 24th
• March 17th
• April 28th
• May 19th

 

Brian van de Graaff and ABC 7 came to Virginia Run to report live and talk to students about weather!

 

2. AAP Full Time Screening Parent Information Night

AAP (Advanced Academic Program) Full Time Screening Parent Information Night

Please join us on Tuesday, October 29 from 7:00 - 8:00 PM, in the VRES Library, to find out more about the winter screening process for full time placement in the Advanced Academic Program.

This information is targeted for families with 2nd – 6th grade students.

Ms. Wade, our Advanced Academic Resource Teacher, will share information about the screening process and the required components.

The winter referral deadline for level IV referral forms is December 15th 2024.  

More information and referral forms can be found here.

Please contact [email protected] with any questions. 

 

3. Viking Math Corner

For families with young children:

Math is Everywhere! Talking to Your Children about Mathematics

Join the FCPS Elementary Math Team on Friday, October 18, 2024 from 10:00 - 11:30 AM to discuss ways to engage your children in mathematics. During our time together we will highlight books, games, and other materials that assist you in talking about mathematics with your child throughout the day. Teaching math to your children doesn’t have to be intimidating. This webinar will provide concrete examples for caregivers with ideas to spark math joy.

Register Online 

 

4. What’s happening in P.E.?

Mr. Rose and Ms. Arreaza run the Pacer with Mrs. DelGrosso's class!

This week we worked on our cardiorespiratory endurance by completing the first PACER test of the year.  You may have seen your child bring home a sheet of paper to show how many laps they completed!  Each grade had the opportunity to run and get the best score they could get.  When they had a second physical education class of the week, the students were encouraged to beat their previous score!  EVERYONE SHOULD BE PROUD OF THEIR OWN PACER SCORE!

Here are the top boy and girl scores for each grade level!  

K: Boy: Axel A. - 45, Girl: Quin A. - 43

1st Grade: Boy: Easton P. - 55, Girl: Samantha S. - 43

2nd Grade: Boy: Dash M. - 72, Girl: Teagan C. - 45

3rd Grade: Boy: Cavin G.- 87, Girl: Samantha L. - 72

4th Grade: Boy: Lucas C. - 83, Ramsey F. - 83, Madsen S.- 83, Girl: Gloria W. - 64

5th Grade: Boy: Chris S. - 97, Girl: Elliot W. - 69

6th Grade: Boy: Tyler G. - 103, Girl: Avonlea G. - 86

Admin: Ms. Arreaza 

 

5. Fairfax County Youth Survey Parent Notice

Parents or guardians of students in grade 6:

The Fairfax County Youth Survey, a collaboration between the Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, is a comprehensive, anonymous, and voluntary survey given each year to students in grades 6, 8, 10 and 12. The survey examines behaviors, experiences, and other factors that influence the health and well-being of Fairfax County's youth. The results, published each year at https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/youthsurvey, identify trends and areas of need, providing a snapshot of the county's youth and serving as a barometer of the community's effectiveness in fostering healthy choices in young people.

The Youth Survey is conducted electronically during school hours, during one class period, and is offered in eight languages. It is completely anonymous, and responses cannot be traced back to your child's personal information or linked to a computer, e-mail address, or other electronic identifiers. No personally identifiable information or IP addresses are recorded. Survey responses are stored in a secure server which is compliant with federal data security standards. To further protect students' anonymity, the responses are read and analyzed only by the researchers and summarized in a report with no personal identifiers. All results are presented at a group, or aggregate, level.

This survey will be administered in your child’s homeroom classroom on November 15, 2024, during a time of day determined by your child's teacher. A copy of the survey is available to parents and/or guardians online at on https://www.fcps.edu/system/files/forms/2024-10/youth-survey-grade-6.pdf .

While it is our hope that as many students as possible will participate, if you do not wish for your child to take part in the survey, please complete the opt-out form that was sent home with your student this week. If you have already opted your child out of this survey using the Parental Digital Consent Portal, you do not need to complete the paper copy of the opt-out form.

 

6. Technology at Home

We are excited to share that our school website is a valuable resource that can significantly enhance your child's learning experience both in and out of the classroom. With a wealth of educational materials, interactive tools, and important announcements, our website offers a convenient way to stay connected to your child's academic progress.  

You can find our Tech Tools at https://virginiarunes.fcps.edu/resources/tech-tools. 

 

7. Outstanding Staff Nominations

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards! To submit a nomination for a VRES employee, please use this form to submit your nominations. You may nominate one employee per category.

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in one or more of the criteria for that award category. 

The deadline to submit a nomination is Wednesday, October 30th at 4:00 PM.

Virginia Run Teacher List 2024-2025

If you have any questions, please contact Kelly Coulter at [email protected].

 

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

 

Mr. Gerstner reading to 1st Grade students in Ms. Marshall's class!

 

9. Positivity Project at Virginia Run

This week, our school will focus on the character strength of Integrity. Integrity means being honest, truthful, and genuine.

Integrity is doing the right thing even when no one is watching. People with integrity tell the truth and align their thoughts, feelings, and actions. They have the courage to stick to their beliefs, even if it means not following the crowd. Integrity is closely related to honesty and authenticity. 

Integrity is essential for personal growth and well-being. When your thoughts, feelings, and actions are in harmony, you can grow and achieve your goals. Being authentic and genuine makes you more likable and trusted by others, improving your relationships.

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

 

10. VRES Scholastic Book Fair

Our Virginia Run Scholastic Book Fair will run Tuesday, October 15th until Monday, October 21st at 11:30am. Join us for Family Shopping Night on October 18th from 5:30-7:30!

Students can shop during their regular library day/time. Cash, credit, and checks (payable to Virginia Run ES, not Scholastic) accepted.

Cashless eWallet recommended. There’s no tax on book fair purchases.

eWallet set up and more information about the book fair is at our VRES Scholastic Book Fair webpage.

Please consider helping to make this book fair successful by volunteering if you can.

Hope to see you there!

 

11. Veterans Day Collage

Every year at Virginia Run, the 4th graders put on a Veterans Day assembly to honor our Veterans from every branch of the military. As a way of honoring our Veterans from the Virginia Run community Ms. Berg, Ms. Adkins and Ms. Tuben will be putting together a collage of pictures of Veterans, past and present, to display from November 6 – November 15. This collage will be on display on the wall near the cafeteria. Feel free to email Ms. Berg ([email protected]) a picture of a Veteran from your family. If you have several Veterans in your family, we welcome multiple pictures. Please be sure to include who the Veteran is in your family (grandpa, aunt, etc.) and their full name and rank. This is for ALL Veterans past and present. If you have a relative who did not return home from their service, please know that we plan to honor these servicemen and women in May for Memorial Day. Please submit all photos by Monday, October 28, 2024. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Berg. Thank you!

**Please note that if you have submitted photos in previous years, they will be on display so there is no need to resubmit.

 

12. Attention Parents of 4th Graders - Veterans Day Concert

Veterans Day is on November 11, 2024. The 4th grader's Veterans Day Concert will be on Friday, November 8th. This program will showcase the entire 4th grade singing in unity to honor the armed forces and our veterans. There will be two performances in the cafeteria on November 8th at 9:45 am and 2:45 pm. Parents are invited to attend the 2:45 pm performance however, if you cannot make that one you are welcome to attend the 9:45 am performance.

Attire for students for both concerts is casual with a patriotic or red, white, and/or blue theme.

 

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Walk & Roll to School Day. We had over 100 students participating in this year’s event!

 

13. 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!

 

14. 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

 

Mr. Gerstner along with PTA members and students were out at K&R having fun promoting the Fall Fest coming up this Friday!

 

15. Virginia Run Fall Fun Night is this Friday!

Save the Date! Virginia Run’s Fall Fun Night will be held on October 18th at VRES from 5:30 - 8:00 PM. 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

Fall Fest 2024 Flyer

 

16. 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#/

 

17. Donut Drive-Thru Pick-up Reminder

Our Donut Drive-Thru pick-up is this Saturday, October 19, 2024 from 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM in the VRES Kiss ‘n Ride lane. 

Questions? Email Heather Ervin at [email protected].

 

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. SCA Service Project

The students in the SCA are partnering with the Fairfax Department of Family Services to gather new hygiene products for families in need. If you would like to help, students may bring in the items below from October 14 - October 25. Please consider various ages, genders, and cultural needs. Collection boxes will be in the lobby. Thank you for supporting our students as they demonstrate Ethical and Global Citizenship!

PK/K: Clorox wipes and toilet paper

1st: Shampoo and conditioner

2nd: Other hair products, brushes and combs

3rd: Chapstick and deodorant

4th: Lotion, soap, and body wash

5th: Toothpaste, floss, toothbrushes, and mouthwash

6th: Baby shampoo, wash, and wipes

  

20. Card My Yard

Support our school by using Card My Yard Centreville! Our school receives $10 for each order. You will save $10 too. Use the code VRESCVILLE10 when ordering. 

Card My Yard Flyer - English

Card My Yard Flyer - Spanish

 

21. 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].

 

22. PTA Meeting Dates for 2024-2025

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

11/12 – General Meeting

2/11 – General Meeting

3/11 – General Meeting

4/8 – General Meeting

5/13- General Meeting

 

23. Westfield HS DECA Shoe Drive

Westfield High School’s DECA is partnering with funds2go to host a shoe collection fundraiser during October and November. Donated shoes should be gently used or new. The shoes collected will be sent to developing countries to help create job opportunities. Funds2go provides over 4,000 micro-entrepreneurs with shoes to serve as inventory for their small businesses. This collection of shoes helps these business owners support their families. 

Donations can be dropped off at:

Bull Run Elementary
Virginia Run Elementary
Stone Middle School
Floris Elementary
Oakton High School
Westfield High School

Each school may have placed their drop-off bins in different locations around the school, so make sure to double check that you have the correct drop off location.

Please see the flyer for more information.

WHS DECA Shoe Drive Flyer

 

24. Important Upcoming Dates

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

11/21: Thanksgiving Lunch - All Grade Levels - Parents Invited

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 PM0

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

6/9: Westfield High School Graduation at 9:30 AM

6/11: Virginia Run ES 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony at 9:30AM

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

 

25. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

26. 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

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

 

October 9, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Staff Cookout this Friday, 10/11
2. Early Release Mondays Letter
3. AAP Full Time Screening Parent Information Night
4. Viking Math Corner
5. Technology at Home
6. FCPS Cares
7. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
8. VRES Scholastic Book Fair
9. Veterans Day Collage
10. Attention Parents of 4th Graders - Veterans Day Concert
11. PTA Social Vice President Needed
12. Join the VRES PTA
13. Virginia Run Fall Fun Night - Save the Date!
14. PTA Fall Fun Night Volunteers and Donations
15. VRES Spirit Wear!
16. Donut Drive-Thru Fundraiser
17. No Fuss Fundraiser!
18. SCA Service Project
19. Card My Yard 
20. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
21. PTA Meeting Dates
22. Westfield HS DECA Shoe Drive
23. FCPS Parent Workshops
24. Important Upcoming Dates
25. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
26. Monthly Lunch Menu

 

1. Staff Cookout this Friday, 10/11

This Friday, we will be hosting a staff cookout for our amazing staff during their lunchtimes. The lunch will include using our PTA purchased grill from this past spring to cook hotdogs, hamburgers, and veggie burgers. If you would like to provide side dishes and/or desserts, we would greatly appreciate your support. You can drop off your side dish/dessert in the front office from 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Please use the link below to sign up. Thank you!

VRES Staff Cookout Donation Sign Up

 

2. Early Release Monday Letters 

Today every student will bring a GREEN 3 Hour Early Release Monday letter home in his/her Wednesday Envelope. The responses you provide on this letter will set a default dismissal plan for your student(s) for the remaining 3 Hour Early Release Mondays this year. All letters are due back to homeroom teachers by Friday, October 18th. Any future changes to your child’s dismissal on a 3 Hour Early Release Monday must be communicated to the main office (703-988-8900) by the Thursday prior.

 3 Hour Early Release Mondays:

• October 28th
• December 9th
• February 24th
• March 17th
• April 28th
• May 19th

 

Mr. Gerstner enjoyed reading some of his favorite books to our kindergarten students this week.

 

3. AAP Full Time Screening Parent Information Night

AAP (Advanced Academic Program) Full Time Screening Parent Information Night

Please join us on Tuesday, October 29 from 7:00 - 8:00 PM, in the VRES Library, to find out more about the winter screening process for full time placement in the Advanced Academic Program.

This information is targeted for families with 2nd – 6th grade students.

Ms. Wade, our Advanced Academic Resource Teacher, will share information about the screening process and the required components.

The winter referral deadline for level IV referral forms is December 15th 2024.  

More information and referral forms can be found here.

Please contact [email protected] with any questions. 

 

4. Viking Math Corner

Have you heard your student talk about ST Math or Jiji the penguin? ST Math helps students develop their problem solving skills, learn to persevere, and connect visuals and reasoning to math content.  Data has shown that students who earn at least 1,000 puzzle pieces show improvement on their Math iReady and SOL scores. Students have the opportunity to engage with ST Math during the school day.  Your student(s) can also access ST Math at home on their personal device for additional practice. Here is a video on how to login to ST Math at home. Questions? Reach out to Katie Campbell (Math Resource teacher) at [email protected].

 

5.Technology at Home

We are excited to share that our school website is a valuable resource that can significantly enhance your child's learning experience both in and out of the classroom. With a wealth of educational materials, interactive tools, and important announcements, our website offers a convenient way to stay connected to your child's academic progress.  

You can find our Tech Tools at https://virginiarunes.fcps.edu/resources/tech-tools. 

 

6. 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

 

7. Positivity Project at Virginia Run

This week offers a chance for teachers and students to review or catch up on our positivity project traits so far. Since the start of school, our school community has learned about five character traits: Curiosity, Teamwork, Open-Mindedness, Perspective, and Forgiveness. We have also learned about the Other People Matter mindset, and how being present and giving others attention can help build positive relationships.

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

 

8. VRES Scholastic Book Fair

Our Virginia Run Scholastic Book Fair will run Tuesday, October 15th until Monday, October 21st at 11:30am. Join us for Family Shopping Night on October 18th from 5:30-7:30!

Students can shop during their regular library day/time. Cash, credit, and checks (payable to Virginia Run ES, not Scholastic) accepted.

Cashless eWallet recommended. There’s no tax on book fair purchases.

eWallet set up and more information about the book fair is at our VRES Scholastic Book Fair webpage.

Please consider helping to make this book fair successful by volunteering if you can.

Hope to see you there!

 

9. Veterans Day Collage

Every year at Virginia Run, the 4th graders put on a Veterans Day assembly to honor our Veterans from every branch of the military. As a way of honoring our Veterans from the Virginia Run community Ms. Berg, Ms. Adkins and Ms. Tuben will be putting together a collage of pictures of Veterans, past and present, to display from November 6 – November 15. This collage will be on display on the wall near the cafeteria. Feel free to email Ms. Berg ([email protected]) a picture of a Veteran from your family. If you have several Veterans in your family, we welcome multiple pictures. Please be sure to include who the Veteran is in your family (grandpa, aunt, etc.) and their full name and rank. This is for ALL Veterans past and present. If you have a relative who did not return home from their service, please know that we plan to honor these servicemen and women in May for Memorial Day. Please submit all photos by Monday, October 28, 2024. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Berg. Thank you!

**Please note that if you have submitted photos in previous years, they will be on display so there is no need to resubmit.

 

10. Attention Parents of 4th Graders - Veterans Day Concert

Veterans Day is on November 11, 2024. The 4th grader's Veterans Day Concert will be on Friday, November 8th. This program will showcase the entire 4th grade singing in unity to honor the armed forces and our veterans. There will be two performances in the cafeteria on November 8th at 9:45 am and 2:45 pm. Parents are invited to attend the 2:45 pm performance however, if you cannot make that one you are welcome to attend the 9:45 am performance.

Attire for students for both concerts is casual with a patriotic or red, white, and/or blue theme.

 

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. 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 PM. 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

Pre-order food by using the form that was sent home in the Wednesday folder.

Fall Fest 2024 Food Order Sales

 

14. 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#/

 

15. 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

 

16. 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

 

17. 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

 

18. SCA Service Project

The students in the SCA are partnering with the Fairfax Department of Family Services to gather new hygiene products for families in need. If you would like to help, students may bring in the items below from October 14 - October 25. Please consider various ages, genders, and cultural needs. Collection boxes will be in the lobby. Thank you for supporting our students as they demonstrate Ethical and Global Citizenship!

PK/K: Clorox wipes and toilet paper

1st: Shampoo and conditioner

2nd: Other hair products, brushes and combs

3rd: Chapstick and deodorant

4th: Lotion, soap, and body wash

5th: Toothpaste, floss, toothbrushes, and mouthwash

6th: Baby shampoo, wash, and wipes

  

19. Card My Yard

Support our school by using Card My Yard Centreville! Our school receives $10 for each order. You will save $10 too. Use the code VRESCVILLE10 when ordering. 

Card My Yard Flyer - English

Card My Yard Flyer - Spanish

 

20. 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].

 

21. PTA Meeting Dates for 2024-2025

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

11/12 – General Meeting

2/11 – General Meeting

3/11 – General Meeting

4/8 – General Meeting

5/13- General Meeting

 

22. Westfield HS DECA Shoe Drive

Westfield High School’s DECA is partnering with funds2go to host a shoe collection fundraiser during October and November. Donated shoes should be gently used or new. The shoes collected will be sent to developing countries to help create job opportunities. Funds2go provides over 4,000 micro-entrepreneurs with shoes to serve as inventory for their small businesses. This collection of shoes helps these business owners support their families. 

Donations can be dropped off at:

Bull Run Elementary

Virginia Run Elementary

Stone Middle School

Floris Elementary

Oakton High School

Westfield High School

Each school may have placed their drop-off bins in different locations around the school, so make sure to double check that you have the correct drop off location.

Please see the flyer for more information.

WHS DECA Shoe Drive Flyer

 

23. FCPS Parent Workshops

FCPS is offering a free 10-week parent workshop to all parents in Fairfax County.

Get tools to learn:

• How to build a positive relationship with your child
• Ways to prevent or intervene in alcohol and drug use, disruptive behavior at home and gang affiliation
• Ways to explore concrete solutions for active supervision.

When: Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 PM
Where: Falls Church High School

Virtual sessions:
October 15, 22, 29
November 5, 12, 19, 26
December 3

In-Person:
October 8
December 10

2024 FCPS Parent Workshops

 

24. Important Upcoming Dates

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

11/21: Thanksgiving Lunch - All Grade Levels - Parents Invited

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 PM0

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

6/9: Westfield High School Graduation at 9:30 AM

6/11: Virginia Run ES 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony at 9:30AM

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 

 

25. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

26. 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

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

 

October 2, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Coffee with the Principal at The Meadows
2. Staff Cookout next Friday, 10/11
3. Technology at Home
4. FCPS Cares
5. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
6. Walk & Roll to School Day
7. VRES Scholastic Book Fair
8. Veterans Day Collage
9. Attention Parents of 4th Graders - Veterans Day Concert
10. PTA Social Vice President Needed
11. Join the VRES PTA
12. Virginia Run Fall Fun Night - Save the Date!
13. PTA Fall Fun Night Volunteers and Donations
14. VRES Spirit Wear!
15. Foster’s Grille Spirit Night
16. Donut Drive-Thru Fundraiser
17. No Fuss Fundraiser!
18. SCA Service Project
19. Card My Yard 
20. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
21. PTA Meeting Dates
22. Westfield HS DECA Shoe Drive
23. FCPS Parent Workshops
24. Important Upcoming Dates
25. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
26. Monthly Lunch Menu

 

1. Coffee with the Principal at The Meadows

Please join Mr. Gerstner for coffee, donuts, and conversation on Monday, October 7, 2024 from 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM at The Meadows of Chantilly Club House, 4200 Airline Parkway, Chantilly, VA 20151.

Topics will include:

1. We want to get to know you and learn how we can work together.
2. How would you like to be included in your child’s education?
3. Do you have any questions or concerns?

Coffee with the Principal Flyer - English

Coffee with the Principal Flyer - Spanish

 

5th Grade learning a new dance in Music class with Mr. Tyler!

 

2. Staff Cookout next Friday, 10/11

Next Friday, we will be hosting a staff cookout for our amazing staff during their lunchtimes. The lunch will include using our PTA purchased grill from this past spring to cook hotdogs, hamburgers, and veggie burgers. If you would like to provide side dishes and/or desserts, we would greatly appreciate your support. You can drop off your side dish/dessert in the front office from 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Please use the link below to sign up. Thank you!

VRES Staff Cookout Donation Sign Up

 

3.Technology at Home

We are excited to share that our school website is a valuable resource that can significantly enhance your child's learning experience both in and out of the classroom. With a wealth of educational materials, interactive tools, and important announcements, our website offers a convenient way to stay connected to your child's academic progress.  

You can find our Tech Tools at https://virginiarunes.fcps.edu/resources/tech-tools. 

 

4. 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

 

5. Walk & Roll to School Day

Walk, bike and roll to school day is Wednesday, October 9, 2024. We’d love to see as many students walking or biking to school on that day to stay active!

6. Positivity Project at Virginia Run

This week, our school community will focus on the character strength of Forgiveness. Forgiveness means letting go of anger toward those who have done wrong and accepting that people make mistakes.

When we forgive, we can move past being hurt and make peace with what happened. Forgiveness heals and strengthens our relationships. It doesn’t erase what happened, but it helps us let go of the hurt and move forward.

Seeking forgiveness shows that a person values relationships and understands the impact of their actions. It shows humility, accountability, and a willingness to make amends. By seeking forgiveness, a person shows they care about resolving conflicts and restoring trust. It also shows emotional maturity and a commitment to personal growth.

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

 

7. VRES Scholastic Book Fair

Our Virginia Run Scholastic Book Fair will run Tuesday, October 15th until Monday, October 21st at 11:30am. Join us for Family Shopping Night on October 18th from 5:30-7:30!

Students can shop during their regular library day/time. Cash, credit, and checks (payable to Virginia Run ES, not Scholastic) accepted.

Cashless eWallet recommended.  There’s no tax on book fair purchases.

eWallet set up and more information about the book fair is at our VRES Scholastic Book Fair webpage.

Please consider helping to make this book fair successful by volunteering if you can.

Hope to see you there!

 

Fitness Fun! This week students are getting started for the fitness unit.  They are working on muscular strength and endurance by completing push-ups, curl ups, plank and wall sit. They are also working on flexibility by completing stretches and working on their cardiorespiratory endurance from using jump ropes and step ups this week.  Lastly, the students are also having some fun with the ROCK WALL! 

 

8. Veterans Day Collage

Every year at Virginia Run, the 4th graders put on a Veterans Day assembly to honor our Veterans from every branch of the military. As a way of honoring our Veterans from the Virginia Run community Ms. Berg, Ms. Adkins and Ms. Tuben will be putting together a collage of pictures of Veterans, past and present, to display from November 6 – November 15. This collage will be on display on the wall near the cafeteria. Feel free to email Ms. Berg ([email protected]) a picture of a Veteran from your family. If you have several Veterans in your family, we welcome multiple pictures. Please be sure to include who the Veteran is in your family (grandpa, aunt, etc.) and their full name and rank. This is for ALL Veterans past and present. If you have a relative who did not return home from their service, please know that we plan to honor these servicemen and women in May for Memorial Day. Please submit all photos by Monday, October 28, 2024. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Berg. Thank you!

**Please note that if you have submitted photos in previous years, they will be on display so there is no need to resubmit.

 

9. Attention Parents of 4th Graders - Veterans Day Concert

Veterans Day is on November 11, 2024. The 4th grader's Veterans Day Concert will be on Friday, November 8th. This program will showcase the entire 4th grade singing in unity to honor the armed forces and our veterans. There will be two performances in the cafeteria on November 8th at 9:45 am and 2:45 pm. Parents are invited to attend the 2:45 pm performance however, if you cannot make that one you are welcome to attend the 9:45 am performance.

Attire for students for both concerts is casual with a patriotic or red, white, and/or blue theme.

 

4th grade students were learning the difference between terrestrial and aquatic this week.

 

10. 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!

 

11. 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

 

Kindergarten sings Mrs. Weber a Happy Birthday song!

12. 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 PM. 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

Pre-order food by using the form that was sent home in the Wednesday folder.

Fall Fest 2024 Food Order Sales

 

13. 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#/

 

14. 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

 

15. Foster’s Grille Spirit Night

Our next Spirit Night will be on October 7, 2024 at Foster’s Grille, 5007-E Westone Plaza Drive, Chantilly, from 4:00 - 9:00 PM. Dine in or pick up.

15% of proceeds will be donated to the VRES PTA!

fostersgrille.com

 

16. 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

 

17. 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

 

18. SCA Service Project

The students in the SCA are partnering with the Fairfax Department of Family Services to gather new hygiene products for families in need. If you would like to help, students may bring in the items below from October 14 - October 25. Please consider various ages, genders, and cultural needs. Collection boxes will be in the lobby. Thank you for supporting our students as they demonstrate Ethical and Global Citizenship!

PK/K: Clorox wipes and toilet paper

1st: Shampoo and conditioner

2nd: Other hair products, brushes and combs

3rd: Chapstick and deodorant

4th: Lotion, soap, and body wash

5th: Toothpaste, floss, toothbrushes, and mouthwash

6th: Baby shampoo, wash, and wipes

  

19. Card My Yard

Support our school by using Card My Yard Centreville! Our school receives $10 for each order. You will save $10 too. Use the code VRESCVILLE10 when ordering. 

Card My Yard Flyer - English

Card My Yard Flyer - Spanish

 

20. 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].

 

21. 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

 

22. Westfield HS DECA Shoe Drive

Westfield High School’s DECA is partnering with funds2go to host a shoe collection fundraiser during October and November. Donated shoes should be gently used or new. The shoes collected will be sent to developing countries to help create job opportunities. Funds2go provides over 4,000 micro-entrepreneurs with shoes to serve as inventory for their small businesses. This collection of shoes helps these business owners support their families. 

Donations can be dropped off at:

Bull Run Elementary

Virginia Run Elementary

Stone Middle School

Floris Elementary

Oakton High School

Westfield High School

Each school may have placed their drop-off bins in different locations around the school, so make sure to double check that you have the correct drop off location.

Please see the flyer for more information.

WHS DECA Shoe Drive Flyer

 

23. FCPS Parent Workshops

FCPS is offering a free 10-week parent workshop to all parents in Fairfax County.

Get tools to learn:

• How to build a positive relationship with your child
• Ways to prevent or intervene in alcohol and drug use, disruptive behavior at home and gang affiliation
• Ways to explore concrete solutions for active supervision.

When: Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 PM
Where: Falls Church High School

Virtual sessions:
October 15, 22, 29
November 5, 12, 19, 26
December 3

In-Person:
October 8
December 10

2024 FCPS Parent Workshops

 

24. Important Upcoming Dates

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

11/21: Thanksgiving Lunch - All Grade Levels - Parents Invited

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

6/9: Westfield High School Graduation at 9:30 AM

6/11: Virginia Run ES 6th Grade Promotion Ceremony at 9:30AM

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 

 

25. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

26. 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

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 25, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Virginia Run Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) Fall Newsletter and Parent Coffee
2. Coffee with the Principal at The Meadows
3. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
4. Book Fair Volunteers Needed
5. PTA Social Vice President Needed
6. Join the VRES PTA
7. Virginia Run Fall Fun Night - Save the Date!
8. PTA Fall Fun Night Volunteers and Donations
9. VRES Spirit Wear!
10. Foster’s Grille Spirit Night
11. Donut Drive-Thru Fundraiser
12. No Fuss Fundraiser!
13. Card My Yard 
14. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
15. PTA Meeting Dates
16. Important Upcoming Dates
17. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
18. Monthly Lunch Menu

 

1. Virginia Run Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) Fall Newsletter and Parent Coffee

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) offers a continuum of advanced academic services for all students in grades K-8. Learning experiences are designed to develop higher-level thinking through enrichment, acceleration, and extension of the Program of Studies (POS).

Teachers, administrators, and Advanced Academic Resource Teachers (AART) work together to provide all levels of service.

Please click on this link (Spanish translation) to read important testing updates and information about the continuum of advanced services in Fairfax County.  

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 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 advanced services, the fall deadline is October 15th, 2024. 

Please contact Brittany Wade [email protected].     

 

2. Coffee with the Principal at The Meadows

Please join Mr. Gerstner for coffee, donuts, and conversation on Monday, October 7, 2024 from 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM at The Meadows of Chantilly Club House, 4200 Airline Parkway, Chantilly, VA 20151.

Topics will include:

1. We want to get to know you and learn how we can work together.
2. How would you like to be included in your child’s education?
3. Do you have any questions or concerns?

Coffee with the Principal Flyer - English

Coffee with the Principal Flyer - Spanish

 

Mrs. Carey's class working on comprehension, using their new Benchmark consumables.

 

3. Positivity Project at Virginia Run

This week our school will focus on the character strength of Perspective. This means understanding and appreciating different points of view. Perspective, often seen as wisdom, goes beyond intelligence. People with this strength are valued for their advice because they see the big picture and understand complex issues.

Those with perspective can get to the heart of difficult matters and bring clarity. They are honest, ethical, and good at seeing what truly matters. This helps them stay calm and learn from mistakes. By reflecting on their own feelings and thoughts, they can empathize with others and offer strong listening and questioning skills. They help their groups navigate challenges and find opportunities for success.

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

 

Mrs. Bentley’s 3rd grade class learns how to view a video for information, and use that knowledge in their writing.

 

4. Book Fair Volunteers Needed

The Scholastic Book Fair is coming to VRES!  It will run October 15th- 21st. To make it the best it can be, we need your support.  Please SIGN UP for any days/times you can help. It’s sure to be a great time!  More Book Fair details are coming soon!

5. 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!

 

6. 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

 

7. 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 PM. 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

Pre-order food by using the form that was sent home in the Wednesday folder.

Fall Fest 2024 Food Order Sales

 

8. 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#/

 

9. 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

 

10. Foster’s Grille Spirit Night

Our next Spirit Night will be on October 7, 2024 at Foster’s Grille, 5007-E Westone Plaza Drive, Chantilly, from 4:00 - 9:00 PM. Dine in or pick up.

15% of proceeds will be donated to the VRES PTA!

fostersgrille.com

 

11. 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

 

12. 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

 

13. Card My Yard

Support our school by using Card My Yard Centreville! Our school receives $10 for each order. You will save $10 too. Use the code VRESCVILLE10 when ordering. 

Card My Yard Flyer - English

Card My Yard Flyer - Spanish

 

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.

10/8- General Meeting

11/12 – General Meeting

2/11 – General Meeting

3/11 – General Meeting

4/8 – General Meeting

5/13- General Meeting

 

16. Important Upcoming Dates

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

11/21: Thanksgiving Lunch - All Grade Levels - Parents Invited

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 

 

17. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

18. 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

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 23, 2024

Early Release Monday

Monday, September 23, 2024

Dismissal at 1:00 PM

To ensure a smooth dismissal, please make arrangements for your child accordingly. All students will be sent home unless after-school care has been arranged.

Buses will run their regular route at the designated early release time (1:00 PM) and again at the normal dismissal time (4:00 PM) for students that need to stay.

More information about early release Mondays at this Link.

Early Release Mondays for our Westfield Pyramid are:

September 23 * October 28 * December 9 * February 24 * March 17 * April 28 and May 19

 

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

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

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 18, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE

1. Our New Student Behavior Expectation Posters Have Arrived
2. Advanced Academic Program Parent Coffee Session
3. Coffee with the Principal at The Meadows
4. Positivity Project at Virginia Run
5. CogAT Abilities Test
6. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener
7. Virginia Run After-school Form for Elementary Early Release Mondays
8. Blue Star Welcome Week
9. Book Fair Volunteers Needed
10. Picture Day Volunteers Needed
11. Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
12. PTA Meeting Dates
13. PTA Social Vice President Needed
14. Join the VRES PTA
15. PTA Fall 2024 Enrichment Clubs
16. Virginia Run Fall Fun Night - Save the Date!
17. PTA Fall Fun Night Volunteers and Donations
18. VRES Spirit Wear!
19. Foster’s Grille Spirit Night
20. Donut Drive-Thru Fundraiser
21. No Fuss Fundraiser!
22. Important Upcoming Dates
23. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts
24. Monthly Lunch Menu

 

1. Our New Student Behavior Expectation Posters Have Arrived

At Virginia Run Elementary, we are committed to creating a safe and positive learning experience for all students. To help our students understand the rules and expectations in each area of the school, we are excited to introduce new Student Expectation Posters. These posters will be displayed throughout key areas of our school, including the bathrooms, cafeteria, classrooms, hallways, kiss and ride, school buses, and where school technology is being used.

The purpose of these posters is to provide clear, consistent expectations for behavior in every setting, helping our students make responsible choices and contribute to a supportive school community. We encourage you to talk with your children about the importance of following these expectations to ensure that Virginia Run remains a place where every student can thrive.

As parents and family members, thank you for your continued support in fostering a positive and respectful learning environment for our 730 students!

2. 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].     

  

3. Coffee with the Principal at The Meadows

Please join Mr. Gerstner for coffee, donuts, and conversation on Monday, October 7, 2024 from 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM at The Meadows of Chantilly Club House, 4200 Airline Parkway, Chantilly, VA 20151.

Topics will include:

1. We want to get to know you and learn how we can work together.
2. How would you like to be included in your child’s education?
3. Do you have any questions or concerns?

Coffee with the Principal Flyer - English

Coffee with the Principal Flyer - Spanish

 

4. Positivity Project at Virginia Run

This week, our school community will focus on the Other People Mindset of Being present and giving others my attention. This means when we are with other people, we are present and give them our full attention.

In today's world, it's easy to get distracted by phone calls, messages, and social media. These distractions can pull us away from what's most important — our relationships with other people.

Just as plants need sunlight to grow, our relationships need attention. If we don’t give our full attention when we are with our family, friends, and even colleagues, we can't build strong relationships. It’s crucial to put down our phones and tablets and really listen when others are talking. Positive relationships are the foundation of a positive culture, and we can’t build positive relationships without attention.

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

 

5. CogAT Abilities Test

NOTIFICATION OF TESTING

Cognitive Abilities Test

Dear Parents and Guardians:

In an effort to obtain additional information about your child, the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) will be administered to all 2nd graders and select 3-6 graders between October 15, 2024 and October 17, 2024. It is important that your child attend school on these days, if possible. If your child must miss school during this time period and your child does not have another ability test result in their student record, they will have an opportunity to take another ability test later this fall.

The purpose of the CogAT is to provide information about students’ developed abilities in verbal, quantitative, and nonverbal reasoning. The types of tasks included in the test are based on content that children are likely to have experienced in school. However, the way questions are asked and specific test content are not necessarily what children have previously experienced. Children are not expected to know the answers to all questions and will be given opportunities to practice sample items before taking the test. The CogAT is an abilities test, so children are not expected to study or prepare for the test the way they would for an achievement test.

Score reports will be provided to parents once results become available. Typically, these reports are available before winter break. If you have any questions about this test, please contact the Advanced Academics Resource Teacher (AART), Brittany Wade, or school test coordinators, Lauren Arreaza and Kelly Coulter, at your child's school.

 

6. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener

FCPS is committed to supporting all students’ mental wellness and social and emotional learning. FCPS approved a Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener that students use to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop skills they need to succeed. These skills include achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. These factors are critical to positive academic, social, and emotional success. All students in grades 3-6 have the opportunity to participate in the screener twice a year, in the fall and spring.  

The SEL Screener elevates the voices of our students by making sure their perspectives are considered in decision-making. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students. Division and school level results, which do not include individual student information, may be used by staff to improve SEL and mental wellness practices and to inform strategic plans. Division and school level results may also be shared with the community to describe the needs of our student body and provide opportunities for partnership.  

Individual students’ Screener data will only be accessible to teachers, administrators, and staff with legitimate educational interests. Results will be maintained in secure files and databases accessible only to these individuals. In partnership with families, staff review this data alongside other information to plan interventions for students with identified needs. Parents and guardians will receive an individualized report regarding their student’s screener results following each assessment window. School staff are available to discuss results with families.  

You can opt out your child from participating in the SEL Screener by completing the form below. The opt-out applies to the current school year and must be completed annually. For more information about the SEL Screener and access to its contents visit https://www.fcps.edu/student-tests-and-assessments/student-assessment-details/social-emotional-screener.  

 

7. 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.

 

8. Blue Star Welcome Week

Blue Star Welcome Week empowers military families to thrive as they serve. There are approximately 13,500 military-connected students enrolled in FCPS. Each year, one-third of our military families transition into or out of our district. Blue Star Welcome Week allows schools to welcome and connect with their military families. The goal is to create a sense of belonging and ensure our military families feel celebrated and welcomed into their school communities.

We are excited to celebrate our military students at Virginia Run Elementary during Blue Star Welcome Week, September 21-29! We are thankful to have these wonderful students in our school and hope to provide a supportive, caring community to all during their time with us at Virginia Run.  

 

9. Book Fair Volunteers Needed

The Scholastic Book Fair is coming to VRES!  It will run October 15th- 21st. To make it the best it can be, we need your support.  Please SIGN UP for any days/times you can help. It’s sure to be a great time!  More Book Fair details are coming soon!

10. Picture Day Volunteers Needed

Picture Day is coming! 

Our fall picture day is on October 17th. Order forms will be going home in the next few weeks. We have over 700 students getting their photos taken this day, and we are in need of a few volunteers to help us make this day run smoothly. We are looking for the following:

3 Volunteers from 9:15am-12:15pm

2 Volunteers from 1:00pm-2:30pm

Volunteers will receive a voucher to use towards your child's picture order.

If you would like to volunteer, please email Shannon Soria at [email protected].

 

11. 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].

 

12. 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

 

13. 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!

 

14. 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

 

15. 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].

 

16. 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

Pre-order food by using the form that was sent home in today's Wednesday folder.

Fall Fest 2024 Food Order Sales

 

17. 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#/

 

18. 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

 

19. Foster’s Grille Spirit Night

Our next Spirit Night will be on October 7, 2024 at Foster’s Grille, 5007-E Westone Plaza Drive, Chantilly, from 4:00 - 9:00 PM. Dine in or pick up.

15% of proceeds will be donated to the VRES PTA!

fostersgrille.com

 

20. 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

 

21. 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

 

22. 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

11/21: Thanksgiving Lunch - All Grade Levels - Parents Invited

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 

 

23. Frequently Visited Links and Important Virginia Run Contacts

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

24. 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

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 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

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

 

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

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

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

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

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

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

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.

• Elementary School : https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary/family-life-education

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

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• See what is for breakfast and lunch at Virginia Run ES
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

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

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter

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:

• Emailing [email protected]
• Calling 703-988-8904 

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.

• Elementary School : https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary/family-life-education

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

• Virginia Run Contacts Page 
• See what is for breakfast and lunch at Virginia Run ES
• 2024-2025 School Year
• Sign up for News You Choose 
• Join the Virginia Run PTA
• Visit the Virginia Run Website
• Substitute Teaching Opportunities
• Monitor your student's academics with a SIS Parent Account
• Recognize an FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Virginia Run Parent Handbook

 

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

Attendance: 703.988-8989 | Web | Twitter