FCPS

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Dear Mighty Red Bird Families,

Wow, it's been cold! As winter settles in, we want to ensure all our students are staying warm and ready to learn. Please remember to dress your child in warm clothing each day, including jackets, hats, and gloves. If you need assistance accessing winter clothing or accessories, our office is here to help—please reach out. Thank you to the families who have donated items to keep our children and staff warm! 

Next Wednesday, January 29th, will be a teacher workday in observance of the Lunar New Year and the end of the 2nd quarter. There will be no school for students on this day.

We hope you’ll join us for our PTA-sponsored Family Science Night on Thursday, January 30th, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. This exciting event will feature hands-on experiments and engaging activities for the whole family.

Thank you for your continued support of our school community. We look forward to seeing many of you at Family Science Night!

Warm regards,
Ms. Drake, Mrs. Agner, Mrs. Long

Upcoming Dates 📆

January 29 - NO SCHOOL - Teacher Workday (Quarter End, Lunar New Year)

January 30 - Family Science Night (6:00 - 7:30, Cafeteria)

February 10 - 3 Hour Early Release

February 17 - NO SCHOOL-  Presidents' Day 

 

🐍 새해 복 많이 받으세요! 新年快乐! Chúc mừng Năm Mới! Wishing good fortune to those in our community who celebrate Lunar New Year! For those in many East and Southeast Asian countries, including Pacific Islanders, the Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays of the year and is all about ushering in luck and prosperity with family. #OurFCPS

Lunar New Year falls at quarter end on Wednesday, January 29. The day will be a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. See the complete school year calendar.

Family Science Night Arrival and Dismissal Reminders 🚗🚶🏽‍➡️🚌

Thank you for your dedication to keeping our Mighty Red Birds safe! We have been informed that there will be increased law enforcement presence during arrival and dismissal. Drivers who make illegal U-Turns on Forrester Blvd. will be ticketed. 

A few reminders:

• Crosswalk Safety: Please use the crosswalks when walking to and from school.
• Parking: Avoid parking in residential areas. Use Kiss & Ride for drop-off and pick-up.
• Royal Ridge Parking: To ensure safety and neighborly relations, please refrain from parking in the spaces off Royal Ridge.

Let's work together to maintain a safe and orderly school environment.

🕧 3 Hour Early Release

The next 3 hour early release Monday will be on February 10, 2025. Confirmation emails will be sent next week for how students are going home using the November selection. Information for how to communicate changes to individual student selections will be in the confirmation emails next week. 

Remaining early release Mondays for Cardinal Forest include: 

• February 10
• March 10
• April 21
• May 12

Health Reminders ❤️‍🩹

Flu season is here, and we all want to keep our students healthy and safe. Please remind your child to practice good hygiene, such as washing their hands frequently and covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

If your child is feeling unwell, especially with flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, or body aches, we ask that you to keep them at home to rest and recover and be fever free for 24 hours without medicaiton, before returning to school. This helps prevent the spread of illness to others.

Thank you for your support in keeping our school community healthy. If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to reach out.

Lost and Found  

Please continue checking the Lost and Found for any items your child may be missing. All items remaining in the Lost and Found on January 28 will be donated. 

Washington Irving Musical Theatre Performance - Frozen, Jr. 

Tickets are available to purchase here.

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

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

• Dress Children Warmly
• Proposed Construction Projects
• Dual Language Immersion Lottery

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

 

  PTA Updates!

Check out PTBoard for news and upcoming events!

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
Attendance: 703.923.5252 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Arrival and Dismissal Reminders 🚗🚶🏽‍➡️🚌

Thank you for your dedication to keeping our Mighty Red Birds safe! We have been informed that there will be increased law enforcement presence during arrival and dismissal. Drivers who make illegal U-Turns on Forrester Blvd. will be ticketed. 

A few reminders:

• Crosswalk Safety: Please use the crosswalks when walking to and from school.
• Parking: Avoid parking in residential areas. Use Kiss & Ride for drop-off and pick-up.
• Royal Ridge Parking: To ensure safety and neighborly relations, please refrain from parking in the spaces off Royal Ridge.

Let's work together to maintain a safe and orderly school environment.

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
Attendance: 703.923.5252 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

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Dear Mighty Red Bird Families,

Welcome back! We hope your extended break was filled with rest, joy, and cherished time with family and friends. As we step into the new year together, we are so grateful for the partnership we share in supporting your child’s learning and growth. With winter in full swing, please remember to dress your children warmly for the season. If your family could use any assistance with coats or winter gear, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us—we’re always here to help.

As we prepare to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this month, we’re reminded of his message of love, hope, and the power of unity. At Cardinal Forest, we strive every day to make his dream a reality by fostering a community where every child feels included, valued, and inspired to reach for their dreams. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey with us. We’re excited to see all the growth, learning, and connections that this year will bring!

Warm regards,
Ms. Drake, Mrs. Agner, Mrs. Long

Upcoming Dates 📆

January 20 -NO SCHOOL-Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Birthday; Inauguration Day

January 29 - NO SCHOOL - Teacher Workday

February 10 - 3 Hour Early Release

February 17 - NO SCHOOL  Presidents' Day 

Schoology For Families 💻

To help you stay connected with your child’s learning, we’ve provided easy-to-follow directions for accessing Schoology. Please take a moment to review the attached guide, which will walk you through the login process.

Schoology for Families

🕧 3 Hour Early Release

The next 3 hour early release Monday will be on February 10, 2025. Confirmation emails will be sent next week for how students are going home using the November selection. Information for how to communicate changes to individual student selections will be in the confirmation emails next week. 

Remaining early release Mondays for Cardinal Forest include: 

• February 10
• March 10
• April 21
• May 12

Health Reminders ❤️‍🩹

Flu season is here, and we all want to keep our students healthy and safe. Please remind your child to practice good hygiene, such as washing their hands frequently and covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

If your child is feeling unwell, especially with flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, or body aches, we ask that you to keep them at home to rest and recover and be fever free for 24 hours without medicaiton, before returning to school. This helps prevent the spread of illness to others.

Thank you for your support in keeping our school community healthy. If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to reach out.

Lost and Found

Please continue checking the Lost and Found for any items your child may be missing. All items remaining in the Lost and Found on January 28 will be donated. 

ST Math Family Math Week

MIND Research is hosting family math week January 13 - January 17, 2025. During that time, students are encouraged to log onto the FCPS Family Math website to engage in math activities with their families at home that include stories with mathematical concepts connected to a variety of different math games from around the world. All activities are available in English and Spanish.

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

If you prefer to have an abbreviated way to share district news, consider sharing the language below in your newsletter. Please edit the list of topics to best fit the needs of your community.

• FCPS  In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
• Veterans Day Recognitions
• Resources on IEPs, Financial Aid, Literacy, and Community Leadership
• Teacher Hiring Event

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

 

  PTA Updates!

Check out PTBoard for news and upcoming events!

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
Attendance: 703.923.5252 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

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Dear Mighty Red Bird Families,

We were thrilled to see such a fantastic turnout for today’s band and strings concert. A huge shoutout to our talented musicians for their hard work and dedication - what a wonderful performance! 

As we head into the holiday season, we want to wish everyone a wonderful and safe holiday break filled with joy and relaxation. There will be no school  for students December 23 through January 3. We will welcome everyone back on Monday, January 6.

Thank you for your continued support, and happy holidays!

Warm regards,
Ms. Drake, Mrs. Agner, Mrs. Long

Upcoming Dates 📆

December 23 - January 3 - NO SCHOOL - Winter Break

January 20 -NO SCHOOL-Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Birthday; Inauguration Day

January 29 - NO SCHOOL - Teacher Workday

The Main Office will be closed during Winter Break.

Our staff will be taking time to be with their families over the break.  The main office will be closed during Winter Break, December 21- January 3.  The office will open on January 6, 2025.  Staff will also not be available via email and will return your message when they come back in the new year.  We hope that you enjoy the time with your families over the break.

Winter Resources from Fairfax County Government Agencies

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Learn how to help these families and the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

🍲 Asistencia Alimentaria y Guía de RecursosLa inseguridad alimentaria impacta a más de 96,000 residentes del Condado de Fairfax. Hay muchos recursos disponibles para apoyar a aquellos que necesitan asistencia alimentaria. Aprenda cómo ayudar a estas familias y los muchos recursos disponibles para apoyar a aquellos que necesitan asistencia alimentaria en el sitio web del Condado de Fairfax, o consulte la Guía de Recursos de Servicios Humanos del condado.

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered.

Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

📚 Entretenerse con libros durante las vacaciones de invierno

La aventura de lectura de invierno de la Biblioteca Pública del Condado de Fairfax (FCPL) ha comenzado y continuará hasta el viernes 31 de enero de 2025. Visite su biblioteca local del Condado de Fairfax (FCPL) o visite su sitio web para inscribirse y obtener un adelanto de los premios que se ofrecen.

 

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun into a handy list of events happening across the county. 

Learn more about the Winter Wonderland and the Holiday Train at Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park, and many more fun events.

⛄ ¡Diviértete al aire libre durante este invierno!

La Autoridad de Parques del Condado de Fairfax ha organizado una lista de los eventos de temporada que se celebrarán en todo el condado. 

Obtenga más información sobre Winter Wonderland y Holiday Train en Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm en Frying Pan Farm Park, y muchos más eventos divertidos.

Special Education Resources

The latest issue of the FCPS Special Education and 504 Newsletter is available online. Topics in this issue include:

• Community Resources for Families of Students with Disabilities
• Save the Date: 2025 Family Summit
• SEL Screener Results
• New Accessibility Resources
• Adapted Physical Education and Recreation Program
• Why Some Students with Disabilities Stay in FCPS Until Age 22
• VR Programs Supports Out-of-State Post Secondary Schools
• Executive Functioning Webinars
• Early Literacy Resources
• ESY and Assessment Webinar
• COVID-19 Compensatory Education: FCPS Service Delivery Options

Subscribe to the Special Education and 504 Newsletter.

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

If you prefer to have an abbreviated way to share district news, consider sharing the language below in your newsletter. Please edit the list of topics to best fit the needs of your community.

• FCPS  In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
• Veterans Day Recognitions
• Resources on IEPs, Financial Aid, Literacy, and Community Leadership
• Teacher Hiring Event

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

 

  PTA Updates!

Check out PTBoard for news and upcoming events!

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
Attendance: 703.923.5252 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

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

Reminder: Fulltime Advanced Academics Referral Deadline

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-6 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to  Karen Mitchell ([email protected]) no later than December 15, 2024. 

The window for families to submit a referral for Full-Time AAP services is the first day of school through December 15, annually.  Forms for Full-Time referrals are available on the AAP Forms Page. No late referrals for Full-Time AAP services will be accepted. 

Submitting a referral form for Full-Time AAP will initiate a process that begins at the local school and is then completed at the central office level. Our school will put together a portfolio that includes multiple data which are considered holistically. At the central office level, a committee of six trained professionals from various schools and roles will review the portfolio materials to determine eligibility for Full-Time placement.  Eligibility decisions are communicated by early April. Parents may request a copy of the portfolio that was submitted after they have been turned in for central selection by emailing Karen Mitchell ([email protected])

 

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

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
Attendance: 703.923.5252 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

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Dear Mighty Red Bird Families,

It’s hard to believe winter break is just around the corner! We’re so grateful for all the support and kindness you continue to show our school—you make our community special.

A big thank you to our amazing PTA for sponsoring our staff's Third Day of Cheer with a festive and delicious hot chocolate bar! We truly appreciate the care and thoughtfulness you show our team!

Next week is Winter Spirit Week, and we’ve included all the details below! These final days before break are filled with fun and excitement for learning. It’s been wonderful to see how focused and engaged our students remain as we begin the countdown to some well-deserved time off.

As the temperatures keep dropping, we just want to remind everyone to bundle up! Please make sure your children are dressed warmly for the chilly weather—hats, gloves, and coats make outdoor time much more fun and comfortable. If your child needs a coat, please reach out to the front office. Our team is here to help.

Warm Regards, 
Ms. Drake, Mrs. Agner, Mrs. Long

Upcoming Dates 📆

December 15 -   Full-Time AAP Referral Deadline (contact [email protected] with questions) 

December 23 - January 3 - NO SCHOOL - Winter Break

January 20 -NO SCHOOL-Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Birthday; Inauguration Day

January 29 - NO SCHOOL - Teacher Workday

Reminder: Fulltime Advanced Academics Referral Deadline

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-6 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to  Karen Mitchell ([email protected]) no later than December 15, 2024. 

The window for families to submit a referral for Full-Time AAP services is the first day of school through December 15, annually.  Forms for Full-Time referrals are available on the AAP Forms Page. No late referrals for Full-Time AAP services will be accepted. 

Submitting a referral form for Full-Time AAP will initiate a process that begins at the local school and is then completed at the central office level. Our school will put together a portfolio that includes multiple data which are considered holistically. At the central office level, a committee of six trained professionals from various schools and roles will review the portfolio materials to determine eligibility for Full-Time placement.  Eligibility decisions are communicated by early April. Parents may request a copy of the portfolio that was submitted after they have been turned in for central selection by emailing Karen Mitchell ([email protected])

 

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

Winter Spirit Week

 

Family Life Education

Students in grades K-6 participate in Family Life Education (FLE) instruction through classroom teachers. Students in Grades 4-6 receive instruction in a human growth and development unit and an emotional and social health unit. For more information about the FCPS Family Life Education program, please see the detailed grade-level program descriptions at: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary/family-life-education

In addition, grade level-specific curriculum lessons are available for review.

• Parents/guardians login to Schoology using the same username and password as their Student Information System (SIS) Parent account. (Parent/Guardian Access to FLE Materials in Schoology)
• Materials are found in the All Parents/Guardians Cardinal Forest Elementary Course in Schoology in the Family Life Education Folder.

• Online in Schoology - includes lessons and media titles that FCPS has streaming rights for. Any additional media or book titles that are not streamed are available at your child’s school library. 

Parents/guardians who do not wish to have their child participate in FLE instruction may choose to opt their child out of any or all of the lessons. Opting out can be indicated on the form sent home earlier this year or through the FCPS Digital Consent Portal or through ParentVue.  If you have already indicated your desire to opt your child out of FLE lessons by using the link in Parent Vue, you do not need to contact anyone.

Winter Resources from Fairfax County Government Agencies

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Learn how to help these families and the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

🍲 Asistencia Alimentaria y Guía de RecursosLa inseguridad alimentaria impacta a más de 96,000 residentes del Condado de Fairfax. Hay muchos recursos disponibles para apoyar a aquellos que necesitan asistencia alimentaria. Aprenda cómo ayudar a estas familias y los muchos recursos disponibles para apoyar a aquellos que necesitan asistencia alimentaria en el sitio web del Condado de Fairfax, o consulte la Guía de Recursos de Servicios Humanos del condado.

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s (FCPL) winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL library branch or visit their website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered.

Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

📚 Entretenerse con libros durante las vacaciones de invierno

La aventura de lectura de invierno de la Biblioteca Pública del Condado de Fairfax (FCPL) ha comenzado y continuará hasta el viernes 31 de enero de 2025. Visite su biblioteca local del Condado de Fairfax (FCPL) o visite su sitio web para inscribirse y obtener un adelanto de los premios que se ofrecen.

 

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun into a handy list of events happening across the county. 

Learn more about the Winter Wonderland and the Holiday Train at Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park, and many more fun events.

⛄ ¡Diviértete al aire libre durante este invierno!

La Autoridad de Parques del Condado de Fairfax ha organizado una lista de los eventos de temporada que se celebrarán en todo el condado. 

Obtenga más información sobre Winter Wonderland y Holiday Train en Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm en Frying Pan Farm Park, y muchos más eventos divertidos.

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

If you prefer to have an abbreviated way to share district news, consider sharing the language below in your newsletter. Please edit the list of topics to best fit the needs of your community.

• FCPS  In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
• Veterans Day Recognitions
• Resources on IEPs, Financial Aid, Literacy, and Community Leadership
• Teacher Hiring Event

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

 

  PTA Updates!

Check out PTBoard for news and upcoming events!

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
Attendance: 703.923.5252 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

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

Dear Mighty Red Bird Families,

What a delight it was to experience the 1st Grade Showcase on Tuesday night! Hearing the students’ voices and seeing their enthusiasm was truly heartwarming. A huge thank you to Mr. Vance and Ms. Cave for their outstanding leadership and dedication in making the evening so special. Moments like these remind us of the incredible talent and spirit in our school community.

As the weather continues to shift and colder temperatures set in, we want to remind everyone to dress accordingly. Students love their outdoor recess time, and having coats, hats, and gloves labeled will ensure everyone is prepared for the season while keeping track of belongings.

Thank you for your continued support and care. Let’s keep this warm sense of community glowing as we head into the cooler days ahead!

With warm regards and gratitude,

Ms. Drake, Mrs. Agner, and Mrs. Long

Upcoming Dates 📆

December 15 -   Full-Time AAP Referral Deadline (contact [email protected] with questions) 

December 23 - January 3 - Winter Break

January 20 -NO SCHOOL-Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Birthday; Inauguration Day

January 29 - NO SCHOOL - Teacher Workday

Reminder: Fulltime Advanced Academics Referral Deadline

Reminder:  Window for Full-Time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15, 2024

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Karen Mitchell, AART ([email protected]) no later than December 15, 2024. 

The window for families to submit a referral for Full-Time AAP services is the first day of school through December 15, annually.  Forms for Full-Time and part-time referrals are available on the AAP Forms Page. No late referrals for Full-Time AAP services will be accepted. 

Submitting a referral form for Full-Time AAP will initiate a process that begins at the local school and is then completed at the central office level. Our school will put together a portfolio that includes multiple data which are considered holistically. At the central office level, a committee of six trained professionals from various schools and roles will review the portfolio materials to determine eligibility for Full-Time placement.  Eligibility decisions are communicated by early April. Parents may request a copy of the portfolio that was submitted after they have been turned in for central selection by emailing Karen Mitchell, AART ([email protected])

Referrals for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP are screened at the local school. If you miss this deadline, your student can still be screened for Subject-Specific AAP or Part-Time AAP for the remainder of the year and submit a referral for Full-Time AAP next fall. 

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

Federal Impact Aid Survey  

Please be sure to sign in your SIS ParentVUE account to complete this important survey.  

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is eligible for federal Impact Aid grants due to the federal presence in our area. The grants from these programs will become part of FCPS' general operating budget. They are critical to ensuring that students receive an excellent education. FCPS anticipates receiving approximately $3,000,000 in Impact Aid funds.

FCPS uses the survey for Federal Impact Aid to identify federally connected students. On October 18th, the survey will be made available to FCPS families. The survey is available online through ParentVue. Families without ParentVUE can request a paper copy of the survey from their child's school. FCPS staff will process the information with the utmost confidentiality.

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results 

One of the ways FCPS supports the mental wellness of all students is through the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener. In October, students in grades 3-12 took this screener, which gives information about their skills such as achieving goals, handling emotions, building relationships with adults and peers, and making good choices. 

The screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to create learning, experiences, and environments for students to succeed.

In early December, families will be able to view student SEL Screener results in SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent by mail.

Learn more about the screener on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For help understanding your child’s results or ideas to support them at home, review the Family Guide or contact us. 

Register for ParentVUELearn how to activate your ParentVUE account, so you can easily access your child’s results and other helpful information.

Preparing For Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated. 

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.

If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Family Life Education

Students in grades K-6 participate in Family Life Education (FLE) instruction through classroom teachers. Students in Grades 4-6 receive instruction in a human growth and development unit and an emotional and social health unit. For more information about the FCPS Family Life Education program, please see the detailed grade-level program descriptions at: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary/family-life-education

In addition, grade level-specific curriculum lessons are available for review.

• Parents/guardians login to Schoology using the same username and password as their Student Information System (SIS) Parent account. (Parent/Guardian Access to FLE Materials in Schoology)
• Materials are found in the All Parents/Guardians Cardinal Forest Elementary Course in Schoology in the Family Life Education Folder.

• Online in Schoology - includes lessons and media titles that FCPS has streaming rights for. Any additional media or book titles that are not streamed are available at your child’s school library. 

Parents/guardians who do not wish to have their child participate in FLE instruction may choose to opt their child out of any or all of the lessons. Opting out can be indicated on the form sent home earlier this year or through the FCPS Digital Consent Portal or through ParentVue.  If you have already indicated your desire to opt your child out of FLE lessons by using the link in Parent Vue, you do not need to contact anyone.

Should you have questions regarding accessing the materials and/or the curriculum you can come to the Cardinal Forest Library on Wednesday, December 4 between 5-5:45. Contact Cindy Agner, AP, with any questions: [email protected] 

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

If you prefer to have an abbreviated way to share district news, consider sharing the language below in your newsletter. Please edit the list of topics to best fit the needs of your community.

• FCPS  In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
• Veterans Day Recognitions
• Resources on IEPs, Financial Aid, Literacy, and Community Leadership
• Teacher Hiring Event

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

 

  PTA Updates!

Check out PTBoard for news and upcoming events!

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
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Dear Mighty Red Bird Families, 

As we head into the Thanksgiving holiday, we want to wish each of you a safe and joyful break. Please remember that there is no school November 27 through November 29, and we look forward to welcoming students back on Monday, December 2.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with warmth, gratitude, and time with loved ones!

Warmly,
Ms. Drake, Mrs. Agner, and Mrs. Long 

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.

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, please ask for a paper form. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, 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.

Need to Register for ParentVUE? 

Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey. 

Technical support for using ParentVUE or completing the survey online is available by submitting a Parent Support Request ticket. Select SISParent in the Application dropdown menu and type Federal Impact Aid Survey under Issue Description. Or, call the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277 (833-921-FCPS).

PTA Updates!

Check out PTBoard for news and upcoming events!

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8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
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Dear Mighty Red Bird Families,

As we prepare for the Thanksgiving break, we want to extend our heartfelt wishes to each of you for a peaceful and joyful holiday. Next week, there will be no school from Wednesday through Friday to allow everyone time to recharge, reconnect, and enjoy the warmth of family and friends.

This past Saturday, our school proudly participated in the West Springfield Pyramid Challenge. It was a wonderful day filled with friendly competition, laughter, and school spirit, set against the backdrop of perfect autumn weather. Watching students from local elementary schools race alongside our spirited mascots and cheering crowds was inspiring. We’re grateful to our students, families, staff, and our dedicated PTA for bringing this event to life and for helping create such special memories.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to invite you to our Friends and Family Lunch TOMORROW, November 21st. This event is a cherished tradition and a chance to gather as a community to celebrate our incredible students. Please see the schedule below for specific lunch times, and know that we look forward to welcoming you into our school family for this meaningful gathering. Please also join us for Turkey Bingo Friday evening! 

With warm regards and gratitude,

Ms. Drake, Mrs. Agner, and Mrs. Long

Upcoming Dates 📆

November 21 - Family and Friends Lunch (see grade level times below)

November 22 - Make Up Picture Day

November 22 - PTA Turkey Bingo (6:30 - 8:30 Cafeteria - doors open @ 6:00) 

November 27 -29 - NO SCHOOL - Thanksgiving Break

December 15 -   Full-Time AAP Referral Deadline (contact [email protected] with questions) 

Friends and Family Lunch Picture Makeups and Retakes 

Students who was absent for picture day will have their pictures taken Friday. 
Families who was dissatisfied with their original picture day portraits can have student pictures retaken . Please note: Families who previously purchased a photo package and would like to retake their photo MUST return their original photo package to the photographer in order to receive a new package.

Students who have not previously ordered can still place a preorder for retake day using the link below:

https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001147807#login

Additional information can be found here: www.vosphoto.com/retakes 

Federal Impact Aid Survey  

Please be sure to sign in your SIS ParentVUE account to complete this important survey.  

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is eligible for federal Impact Aid grants due to the federal presence in our area. The grants from these programs will become part of FCPS' general operating budget. They are critical to ensuring that students receive an excellent education. FCPS anticipates receiving approximately $3,000,000 in Impact Aid funds.

FCPS uses the survey for Federal Impact Aid to identify federally connected students. On October 18th, the survey will be made available to FCPS families. The survey is available online through ParentVue. Families without ParentVUE can request a paper copy of the survey from their child's school. FCPS staff will process the information with the utmost confidentiality.

Boundary Review Community Meeting

Boundary Review Community Meeting

Community meetings regarding FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will take place in each of the division's six regions. You are encouraged to attend the meeting in our region, which will take place on Tuesday, December 3, 6:30-8 p.m., at Lake Braddock Secondary School Cafeteria. 

Please register in advance by clicking on the date. Language interpretation will be available. 

If you are unable to attend on this date, view the full list of meetings on the Comprehensive School Boundary Review webpage.

Family Life Education

Students in grades K-6 participate in Family Life Education (FLE) instruction through classroom teachers. Students in Grades 4-6 receive instruction in a human growth and development unit and an emotional and social health unit. For more information about the FCPS Family Life Education program, please see the detailed grade-level program descriptions at: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary/family-life-education

In addition, grade level-specific curriculum lessons are available for review.

• Parents/guardians login to Schoology using the same username and password as their Student Information System (SIS) Parent account. (Parent/Guardian Access to FLE Materials in Schoology)
• Materials are found in the All Parents/Guardians Cardinal Forest Elementary Course in Schoology in the Family Life Education Folder.

• Online in Schoology - includes lessons and media titles that FCPS has streaming rights for. Any additional media or book titles that are not streamed are available at your child’s school library. 

Parents/guardians who do not wish to have their child participate in FLE instruction may choose to opt their child out of any or all of the lessons. Opting out can be indicated on the form sent home earlier this year or through the FCPS Digital Consent Portal or through ParentVue.  If you have already indicated your desire to opt your child out of FLE lessons by using the link in Parent Vue, you do not need to contact anyone.

Should you have questions regarding accessing the materials and/or the curriculum you can come to the Cardinal Forest Library on Wednesday, December 4 between 5-5:45. Contact Cindy Agner, AP, with any questions: [email protected] 

Advanced Academics Information 

Information shared at the full time services parent meeting on November 19th can be accessed here. As a reminder December 15 is the deadline for Full-Time AAP Referrals. Ms. Mitchell is available to answer questions: contact her at  [email protected]. 

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

If you prefer to have an abbreviated way to share district news, consider sharing the language below in your newsletter. Please edit the list of topics to best fit the needs of your community.

• FCPS  In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
• Veterans Day Recognitions
• Resources on IEPs, Financial Aid, Literacy, and Community Leadership
• Teacher Hiring Event

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

 

  PTA Updates!

Check out PTBoard for news and upcoming events!

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
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Dear Mighty Red Bird Families,

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of our recent Career Day. The speakers were truly inspiring and the students thoroughly enjoyed learning about the diverse career paths they can pursue. We are incredibly grateful to all the volunteers who made this event possible.

As a friendly reminder, with the colder weather approaching, please remember to label your child's belongings. This will help lost items to get reunited to their owner. 

Also, please note that Monday, November 18th is a 3-hour early release day.

As a reminder, our Friends and Family Lunch on November 21st. This will be a wonderful time for our community to come together and celebrate our students. Please see the schedule below for specific times, and we hope to see many of you there!

Thank you for your continued support and partnership.

Warm Regards,

Ms. Drake, Mrs. Agner, and Mrs. Long

Upcoming Dates 📆

November 16 - West Springfield Pyramid Challenge (10:00 am - 12:00 pm)

November 19 - Full-time Central Screening AAP Parent Information Session (6:00pm - Library) 

November 18 - 3 Hour Early Release (Form to update dismissal needs) 

November 21 - Family and Friends Lunch (see grade level times below)

November 22 - Make Up Picture Day

November 27 -29 - NO SCHOOL - Thanksgiving Break

December 15:  Full-Time AAP Referral Deadline (contact [email protected] with questions) 

Arrival and Dismissal Reminders 🚗🚶🏽‍➡️🚌

Thank you for your dedication to keeping our Mighty Red Birds safe!

A few reminders:

• Crosswalk Safety: Please use the crosswalks when walking to and from school.
• Parking: Avoid parking in residential areas. Use Kiss & Ride for drop-off and pick-up.
• Royal Ridge Parking: To ensure safety and neighborly relations, please refrain from parking in the spaces off Royal Ridge.

Let's work together to maintain a safe and orderly school environment.

Pyramid Challenge

Cardinal Forest is in need of volunteers for the Pyramid Challenge fun run this weekend. 

Please use the link below to sign up to help out at this great community event! Volunteer positions may be filled by middle school or high school students and count as service hours.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080B4DAEA82BA5FC1-52313777-fall#/

Friends and Family Lunch Federal Impact Aid Survey  

Please be sure to sign in your SIS ParentVUE account to complete this important survey.  

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is eligible for federal Impact Aid grants due to the federal presence in our area. The grants from these programs will become part of FCPS' general operating budget. They are critical to ensuring that students receive an excellent education. FCPS anticipates receiving approximately $3,000,000 in Impact Aid funds.

FCPS uses the survey for Federal Impact Aid to identify federally connected students. On October 18th, the survey will be made available to FCPS families. The survey is available online through ParentVue. Families without ParentVUE can request a paper copy of the survey from their child's school. FCPS staff will process the information with the utmost confidentiality.

Boundary Review

📍 Boundary Review Community Meetings Start This Month

As a reminder, FCPS has started the process of reviewing school boundaries across the division. This important work will help the district better support student population growth, changes in school capacity, and evolving community needs. Community input is vital to this process. With that in mind, FCPS, in partnership with Thru Consulting, will be hosting a series of community meetings in each of FCPS’ six regions. Participants are encouraged to share their thoughts, ask questions, and learn more about the boundary review process.

Please visit FCPS’ website for meeting dates, locations, and other information. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates

AAP Parent Meeting 

Ms. Mitchell will be hosting an AAP Parent Meeting for full-time central screening on November 19 at 6:00 p.m., in the library. This meeting will provide more in depth information regarding full-time central screening. Contact Ms. Mitchell with questions [email protected].

Thanksgiving in Springfield Attendance Tip:

🗓️ Planning family events or trips? Remember, weekends & school holidays are golden! Keep school absences to a minimum, as 10% missed can lead to chronic absence. Consult the FCPS Calendar for smooth scheduling: https://bit.ly/3RJbauv #AttendTodayAchieveTomorrow #AttendanceMattersVA

 

  PTA Updates!

Check out PTBoard for news and upcoming events!

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
Attendance: 703.923.5252 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Dear Mighty Red Bird Families,

As we embark on the second quarter, we want to express our sincere pride in our students' hard work and achievements in the first quarter. Your dedication and commitment to learning are truly inspiring and have set a positive tone for the rest of the school year.

We’re thrilled to announce our upcoming Career Week! From November 13-17, students will have the opportunity to explore a variety of career paths, learn about different professions, and meet inspiring guests from our community. Career Week is designed to broaden our students' understanding of future possibilities and help them dream big about their potential. 

We’re also excited to invite all families to our Friends and Family Lunch on November 21st. This will be a wonderful time for our community to come together and celebrate our students. Please see the schedule below for specific times, and we hope to see many of you there!

Please remember to check the school calendar regularly, as November includes a few breaks. Let’s continue this quarter with enthusiasm, engagement, and the strong sense of community that makes our school special.

Warm Regards,

Ms. Drake, Mrs. Agner, and Mrs. Long

Upcoming Dates 📆

November 11 - NO SCHOOL (Veterans Day)

November 12 - November 15 - Career Week!

November 16 - West Springfield Pyramid Challenge (10:00 am - 12:00 pm)

November 19 - Full-time Central Screening AAP Parent Information Session (6:00pm - Library) 

November 18 - 3 Hour Early Release (Form to update dismissal needs) 

November 21 - Family and Friends Lunch (see grade level times below)

November 22 - Make Up Picture Day

December 15:  Full-Time AAP Referral Deadline (contact [email protected] with questions) 

Veterans Day

 

In honor of Veterans Day, we extend our deepest gratitude to all the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. Their sacrifices and dedication to our country inspire us and remind us of the freedoms we cherish each day. To our veteran families and community members, we thank you for your service and the invaluable role you play in enriching our school.

Career Week!

Join CFES to inspire our students' futures during Career Week, November 12-15th! 

We’ve planned a fun, informative week that would be even better with your participation!

• Check out the AT HOME section of the career Week calendar and discuss at dinner, in the car, etc.
• Sign up to have fun at recess to play and/or supervise career games with the students on Tuesday, Nov. 12th Sign up to help with recess games
• If you cannot connect through the link please contact Kathleen Gannon, school counselor at 703-523-5213 with the time you want to help 😊
• “Dress out” with your child on Thursday and Friday to join in the fun!

Friends and Family Lunch Federal Impact Aid Survey  

Please be sure to sign in your SIS ParentVUE account to complete this important survey.  

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is eligible for federal Impact Aid grants due to the federal presence in our area. The grants from these programs will become part of FCPS' general operating budget. They are critical to ensuring that students receive an excellent education. FCPS anticipates receiving approximately $3,000,000 in Impact Aid funds.

FCPS uses the survey for Federal Impact Aid to identify federally connected students. On October 18th, the survey will be made available to FCPS families. The survey is available online through ParentVue. Families without ParentVUE can request a paper copy of the survey from their child's school. FCPS staff will process the information with the utmost confidentiality.

AAP Parent Meeting 

Ms. Mitchell will be hosting an AAP Parent Meeting for full-time central screening on November 19 at 6:00 p.m., in the library. This meeting will provide more in depth information regarding full-time central screening. Contact Ms. Mitchell with questions [email protected].

Language Arts Grading Updates 

Our teachers have been hard at work teaching with the new Language Arts curriculum, and we are excited to help all of our students become strong readers and writers! This year we also have new assessments, which is how we check if your student needs extra help with reading and writing, and new Standards of Learning (SOLs).

Because of these changes, we are now teaching all of the Language Arts skills your child needs to know (and checking if they need extra help) throughout the whole school year, instead of different skills each quarter. While these skills will be new to your child in the beginning of the year, the goal is for your child to grow strong in all of their new skills by the end of the year.

This means that when you get your child’s progress report next month, it might look different. Your child’s teacher will give you more information on the new progress reporting and how we’re making sure your child is getting any extra help they might need. You can also find more information on FCPS’ Grading and Reporting webpage.

We will also have new ways for you to help your child practice their reading and writing skills at home. These resources are coming soon!

Attendance Tip:

🗓️ Planning family events or trips? Remember, weekends & school holidays are golden! Keep school absences to a minimum, as 10% missed can lead to chronic absence. Consult the FCPS Calendar for smooth scheduling: https://bit.ly/3RJbauv #AttendTodayAchieveTomorrow #AttendanceMattersVA

 

  PTA Updates!

Check out PTBoard for news and upcoming events!

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
Attendance: 703.923.5252 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Dear Mighty Red Bird Families,

In honor of Veterans Day, we cordially invite active, retired, and veteran military members to join us in inspiring our students by reading to them. The event will take place on Friday, November 8th, 2024, from 9:15 AM to 9:45 AM. Please arrive at the main office by 9:00 AM to check in. If you are interested in participating, please complete the following form.

https://forms.gle/FiUuusR2z8tpoDgh8

Sincerely,

Ms. Drake, Mrs. Long and Mrs. Agner

 

Upcoming Dates 📆

November 4-5:  NO SCHOOL - Teacher Work Days

November 11:  NO SCHOOL - Veterans Day 

November 16 - West Springfield Pyramid Challenge (10:00 am - 12:00 pm)

November 18 - 3 Hour Early Release

November 21 - Make Up Picture Day

December 15:  Full-Time AAP Referral Deadline (contact [email protected] with questions) 

 

  PTA Updates!

Check out PTBoard for news and upcoming events!

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
Attendance: 703.923.5252 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Dear Mighty Red Bird Families,

We hope everyone had a wonderful time at our Trunk or Treat and Movie Night! Thank you to our dedicated staff for their creativity in decorating the cars and making Trunk or Treat so much fun. We also extend our gratitude to the PTA for organizing the successful Movie Night.

As we wrap up the first quarter, we want to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our students. Their efforts are truly commendable.

Please note that tomorrow (Thursday) is a 2-hour early release.  There will be no school on Friday, Monday, and Tuesday.  Additionally, Daylight Saving Time begins this weekend, so remember to set your clocks back one hour.

We look forward to a restful break and a productive second quarter!

 

Warm Regards,

Ms. Drake, Mrs. Agner, and Mrs. Long

 

Upcoming Dates 📆

October 31:  2-Hr Early Release @ 1:55 p.m. -1st Quarter Ends 

November 1:  NO SCHOOL - Diwali

November 4-5:  NO SCHOOL - Teacher Work Days

November 16 - West Springfield Pyramid Challenge (10:00 am - 12:00 pm)

November 18 - 3 Hour Early Release

November 21 - Make Up Picture Day

December 15:  Full-Time AAP Referral Deadline (contact [email protected] with questions) 

Federal Impact Aid Survey  

Please be sure to sign in your SIS ParentVUE account to complete this important survey.  

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is eligible for federal Impact Aid grants due to the federal presence in our area. The grants from these programs will become part of FCPS' general operating budget. They are critical to ensuring that students receive an excellent education. FCPS anticipates receiving approximately $3,000,000 in Impact Aid funds.

FCPS uses the survey for Federal Impact Aid to identify federally connected students. On October 18th, the survey will be made available to FCPS families. The survey is available online through ParentVue. Families without ParentVUE can request a paper copy of the survey from their child's school. FCPS staff will process the information with the utmost confidentiality.

Lost and Found

Please ask your child to check the Lost and Found for any items they might be missing. Parents and caregivers are also welcome to check the Lost and Found for their child's missing items. All items remaining in the Lost and Found will be donated on November 6.

Outstanding Employee Awards

Help us recognize the outstanding employees at Cardinal Forest!

Nominations are accepted for the following roles:

Outstanding Teacher

Common positions in this category: classroom teachers and specialists

Outstanding Leader  

Common positions in this category: Administrators 

Outstanding Professional Employee  

Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, 

Outstanding Operational Employee

Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, Instructional Assistants, Family Liaisons 

The deadline to submit a nomination is November 5 , 2024

Resources for Families

 

• Students have unlimited access to 24/7, on-demand, online tutoring support services through VarsityTutors.com at no cost to families. Students can connect online any time, any place, and in most K-12 subjects. Tutoring may be on-demand or scheduled at a time convenient for the student. Students automatically have access to the VarsityTutors.com tutoring service through a link in Clever unless a parent/guardian submits an opt-out request.
• The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunization appointments at their district offices for FCPS elementary students on limited early-release Mondays through December. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Parents should call 703-246-7100 to make appointments.
• Lorton Community Action Center is having a Winter Coat Distribution on Sunday, November 10th from 3 to 4 p.m. More information in the English and Spanish flyers attached. 

Attendance Tip:

🗓️ Planning family events or trips? Remember, weekends & school holidays are golden! Keep school absences to a minimum, as 10% missed can lead to chronic absence. Consult the FCPS Calendar for smooth scheduling: https://bit.ly/3RJbauv #AttendTodayAchieveTomorrow #AttendanceMattersVA

 

  PTA Updates!

Check out PTBoard for news and upcoming events!

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
Attendance: 703.923.5252 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Dear Mighty Red Bird Families,

As we get closer to the end of the first quarter, it's amazing to see how much learning has happened in such a short time! Our classrooms have been buzzing with activity, from exciting hands-on projects to lessons that get our students thinking in new ways while building strong foundational skills. We've already seen so much growth, and we hope you're hearing all about it at home. If you haven't had the chance to schedule a parent-teacher conference yet, keep an eye out for details from your child's teacher— these conferences are a valuable opportunity to discuss your child's progress as we move forward into the school year.

We’ve also had some fun events that bring our community closer. Just recently, our first graders visited the West Springfield High School varsity football team and cheerleaders to read with them on the football field. It was an awesome morning where the kids got to enjoy books while meeting some local sports stars. This kind of event shows how we’re building both learning and connections at our school! Read more here. 

We look forward to seeing you this Friday at 5:00 for Trunk or Treat and 6:00 for Movie Night on the Blacktop! 

Warm Regards,

Ms. Drake, Mrs. Agner, and Mrs. Long

 

Upcoming Dates 📆

October 31:  2-Hr Early Release @ 1:55 p.m. -1st Quarter Ends 

November 1:  NO SCHOOL - Diwali

November 4-5:  NO SCHOOL - Teacher Work Days

November 16 - West Springfield Pyramid Challenge (10:00 am - 12:00 pm)

November 18 - 3 Hour Early Release

November 21 - Make Up Picture Day

December 15:  Full-Time AAP Referral Deadline (contact [email protected] with questions) 

Federal Impact Aid Survey  

Please be sure to sign in your SIS ParentVUE account to complete this important survey.  

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is eligible for federal Impact Aid grants due to the federal presence in our area. The grants from these programs will become part of FCPS' general operating budget. They are critical to ensuring that students receive an excellent education. FCPS anticipates receiving approximately $3,000,000 in Impact Aid funds.

FCPS uses the survey for Federal Impact Aid to identify federally connected students. On October 18th, the survey will be made available to FCPS families. The survey is available online through ParentVue. Families without ParentVUE can request a paper copy of the survey from their child's school. FCPS staff will process the information with the utmost confidentiality.

Trunk or Treat and Movie Night! Lost and Found

Please ask your child to check the Lost and Found for any items they might be missing. Parents and caregivers are also welcome to check the Lost and Found for their child's missing items. All items remaining in the Lost and Found will be donated on November 6.

Attendance Tip:

🗓️ Planning family events or trips? Remember, weekends & school holidays are golden! Keep school absences to a minimum, as 10% missed can lead to chronic absence. Consult the FCPS Calendar for smooth scheduling: https://bit.ly/3RJbauv #AttendTodayAchieveTomorrow #AttendanceMattersVA

 

  PTA Updates!

Check out PTBoard for news and upcoming events!

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
Attendance: 703.923.5252 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Dear Mighty Red Bird Families,

We had a fantastic turnout at last week’s Heritage Night! It was inspiring to see families and students come together to celebrate our rich diversity, sharing food, stories, and traditions that reflect the vibrant cultures within our community. Your involvement made this event a huge success, and we are grateful to everyone who participated. A special thank you to our PTA for organizing and bringing such warmth to today’s Fall Sprinkle! It was a delightful treat for our staff.

Last week and this week, our teachers have been working diligently in data dialogues, reviewing assessment data to plan for upcoming instruction and interventions. These conversations allow us to celebrate student growth while also identifying next steps to ensure all students receive the support they need. We appreciate your ongoing partnership as we continue to work toward excellence in all areas of learning and growth.

Please remember to check your emails and complete the survey regarding early release Mondays. It's important that we know who will remain at school so we can plan accordingly and ensure that all students are dismissed safely. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter!

Warm regards,

Ms. Drake, Mrs. Long and Mrs. Agner

Upcoming Dates 📆

October 18: Federal Impact Aid Survey

October 21:  3-Hour Early Release Monday (Students Dismiss at 12:55 p.m.)

October 31:  1st Quarter Ends (2-Hr. Early Release at 1:55 p.m.)

November 1:  NO SCHOOL - Diwali

November 4-5:  NO SCHOOL - Teacher Work Days

November 16 - West Springfield Pyramid Challenge (10:00 am - 12:00 pm)

November 21 - Make Up Picture Day

December 15:  Full-Time AAP Referral Deadline (contact [email protected] with questions) 

Math is Everywhere! Talking to Your Children about Mathematics

Join the FCPS Elementary Math Team 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.

October 18, 2024, 10-11:30 A.M. Register Online 

Federal Impact Aid Survey - October 18th 

More information to come!  Please be sure to sign in your SIS ParentVUE account to complete this important survey.  

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is eligible for federal Impact Aid grants due to the federal presence in our area. The grants from these programs will become part of FCPS' general operating budget. They are critical to ensuring that students receive an excellent education. FCPS anticipates receiving approximately $3,000,000 in Impact Aid funds.

FCPS uses the survey for Federal Impact Aid to identify federally connected students. On October 18th, the survey will be made available to FCPS families. The survey is available online through ParentVue. Families without ParentVUE can request a paper copy of the survey from their child's school. FCPS staff will process the information with the utmost confidentiality.

National School Lunch Week

Celebrating the Power of School Lunches

Multiple studies show that school lunches are important in supporting overall student health by improving students’ diets and combating food insecurity. Students who eat school lunches consume more fruit, vegetables, and fiber than their peers. 

This School Lunch Week, FCPS Food and Nutrition Services reminds families that they are dedicated to providing flavorful, healthy, sustainable, and student-focused meals. Also, new menu items have been launched this year based on student feedback. 

Want to know what’s for breakfast or lunch? Nutrition Services now has printable menus

Trunk or Treat Attendance Tip:

🎒Every day in class counts towards success! Consistent attendance is the key to unlocking a world of knowledge for our students. See how you can encourage good attendance in elementary school: https://bit.ly/3TP2gdB

#AttendTodayAchieveTomorrow #AttendanceMattersVA

FCPS Cares

FCPS Cares 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 the entire Mighty Red Bird Community. 

PTA Updates!

Check out PTBoard for news and upcoming events!

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
Attendance: 703.923.5252 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Dear Mighty Red Bird Families,

It's been a great week at The Nest! We enjoyed a wonderful character building assembly, "Magic in You" by Joe Romano. Thank you to our amazing PTA for sponsoring this meaningful experience for our students. 

We have lots of upcoming opportunities to come together over the next month.

Heritage Night: A Community Celebration

Join us for a night of cultural exploration and connection at Heritage Night!

When: Thursday, October 10th, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM

Where: Blacktop at Cardinal Forest Elementary School

Discover the rich tapestry of our community as we share stories, traditions, and favorite foods. Explore different cultures, learn about new hobbies, and celebrate our shared experiences.

New this year: Showcase your heritage through plants and flowers! Ms. Cooper has set aside a special area in the CFES garden for families to bring greenery from their countries or regions.

Please sign up if you would like to participate.

Don't miss these other exciting events:

• Pyramid Challenge: Register your student for this free fun run on October 15th. Register HERE
• Career Day: Share your expertise and inspire our students by volunteering as a career speaker. Career Day Speaker Sign up.

Let's come together as a community and celebrate our diversity!

Ms. Drake, Mrs. Long and Mrs. Agner

Upcoming Dates 📆

October 10 - Heritage Night (5:30 pm - 7:30 pm)

October 14:  NO SCHOOL - Indigenous Peoples Day 

October 15:  AAP Referral Deadline for New FCPS Students

October 18: Federal Impact Aid Survey

October 21:  3-Hour Early Release Monday (Students Dismiss at 12:55 p.m.)

October 31:  1st Quarter Ends (2-Hr. Early Release at 1:55 p.m.)

November 1:  NO SCHOOL - Diwali

November 4-5:  NO SCHOOL - Teacher Work Days

November 16 - West Springfield Pyramid Challenge (10:00 am - 12:00 pm)

November 21 - Make Up Picture Day

December 15:  Full-Time AAP Referral Deadline

Arrival and Dismissal Notes

Thank you for your attention and diligence ensuring a safe Arrival and Dismissal for all our Mighty Red Birds.

A few reminders:
* Use the Crosswalks to walk to and from school
* Do not park in residential areas
* Remember to drop off and pick up by car through Kiss & Ride only

As a reminder, doors open at 8:55 for students. 

Indigenous Peoples' Day 

Indigenous Peoples' Day is a time to honor the cultures, histories, and contributions of Native peoples. It encourages reflection, learning, and respect for the diverse indigenous communities that have shaped our nation.

Federal Impact Aid Survey - October 18th 

More information to come!  Please be sure to sign in your SIS ParentVUE account to complete this important survey.  

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is eligible for federal Impact Aid grants due to the federal presence in our area. The grants from these programs will become part of FCPS' general operating budget. They are critical to ensuring that students receive an excellent education. FCPS anticipates receiving approximately $3,000,000 in Impact Aid funds.

FCPS uses the survey for Federal Impact Aid to identify federally connected students. On October 18th, the survey will be made available to FCPS families. The survey is available online through ParentVue. Families without ParentVUE can request a paper copy of the survey from their child's school. FCPS staff will process the information with the utmost confidentiality.

Trunk or Treat West Springfield Pyramid Challenge

 

What: West Springfield Pyramid Challenge 

When: Saturday, November 16; 10:00am-12:00pm

Where: Irving Middle School

The Pyramid Challenge registration site is LIVE! Register HERE. 

The West Springfield Pyramid Challenge is a FREE fun run that was started over a decade ago. Students from the 7 elementary schools in the West Springfield Pyramid will run a half-mile or one-mile course, depending on their grade level. This year's event will also include a unified heat with an accessible 200-meter course for students with physical and cognitive disabilities. 

Register your student using the website below - note that registration ends on Tuesday, October 15! https://runsignup.com/Race/VA/Springfield/WestSpringfieldPyramidChallenge

AAP Screening

The Fall screening window for Full-Time Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) is now open for students new to Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) since January 2024. The deadline to submit a referral is October 15, 2024.

Spring Screening - referral and optional materials are due by December 15.

Learn More:

• AAP Overview Sessions: Missed the live sessions? No problem! Access the slides for a comprehensive overview of the AAP program.
• Fall AAP 2024 Newsletter: Get all the details about the program in the Fall Newsletter.

Referral Forms:: 

• Referral Form and Questionnaire: Referral forms for all advanced academic program services are found here.  Additionally, you can reference the optional parent questionnaire.  Submit them to Ms. Karen Mitchell, Advanced Academics Resource Teacher, at [email protected].

Upcoming Events:

• 6th Grade Parent Information Night: Learn more about the AAP program specifically for 6th graders on November 7th from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
• 6th Grade General Curriculum Night: Get an overview of the general curriculum for 6th grade on January 16th from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Questions?

Don't hesitate to contact Ms. Karen Mitchell ([email protected]) with any questions you might have about the AAP program or the application process.

 

Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

Good attendance is an important life skill that will help students succeed in school and beyond.

When planning trips or family events, refer to the FCPS calendar and try to use weekends and school holidays. Every day of learning is a day toward success. Keep in mind that absences add up quickly. Students absent 10% of the school year (or just two days per month) are considered chronically absent.

When possible, schedule appointments for your child outside of school hours. If your child needs to miss school because of an illness or another reason, you must report the absence. 

Watch this video with tips on understanding the FCPS school year calendar and visit the Attendance webpage for additional information. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

FCPS Cares

FCPS Cares 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 the entire Mighty Red Bird Community. 

PTA Updates!

Check out PTBoard for news and upcoming events!

8600 Forrester Blvd.,Springfield, VA 22152 | Main Office: 703.923.5200
Attendance: 703.923.5252 | Web | Twitter | Facebook