Parent Handbook

Birthday Treats

  • Due to the high number of student allergies in our school, food item birthday treats are not permitted. Stickers, pencils and like items can be shared with classmates. All celebrations must be coordinated with the teacher prior to being sent. Students will receive a birthday card and pencil from the administrators, on or as close to, their birthday as possible. Birthday party invitations cannot be distributed in class or through the Tuesday folder.  

Discipline

Homework

  • Homework is a key point of contact between home and school. It is assigned to reinforce skills taught in the classroom and to enrich the school experience. Teachers decide on the amount and type of work considering the level, maturity, and ability of the child, gradually increasing the responsibility for students in grades 1 - 6. Parents should create a home environment that reinforces the importance of education. The Parent Resource page provides links to valuable information.

Volunteers

  • Cardinal Forest enjoys the support of an extensive volunteer program. Typically, volunteers work with students, assist in the library, help with art projects, perform clerical jobs, prepare instructional materials, or work on PTA projects. You may sign up at Back to School Night or contact your child’s teacher, the school office, or a PTA officer to participate. 

Lunch Menu

View today's, or upcoming, lunch menu at Cardinal Forest.

How to pay for lunch?

Learn about meal prices, payments, and free and reduced meal programs.

School Assessments

Assessments are part of the teaching and learning process in Fairfax County Public Schools. Teachers give assessments to students on an ongoing basis to check for understanding and gather information about students' knowledge and skills. The state and school division also expect students to participate in certain tests to help with monitoring school and student performance and to provide information about additional services that may benefit the student.

Parents and guardians should contact their children's schools with any testing questions or for additional information about how schools and teachers use test results to support student success.

School Payments Made Easy

From the cafeteria to the classroom, pay anytime, anywhere from your computer or smartphone.

The FCPS Parent Resource Center offers a welcoming and engaging environment for parents, educators and community members to access information and resources to support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs and disabilities. Free workshops, confidential consultations and over 6,000 lending library materials available at the Parent Resource Center help ensure that all students are inspired, engaged and thriving. 

FCPS is committed to providing parents with regular news and information to support student learning and to promote family involvement. FCPS communicates in many ways, such as: