FCPS

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

Upcoming Dates:

03/31              Eid al-Fitr/ Student Holiday-No School
04/01              Teacher Workday (Student Holiday, No School)
                       Kindergarten Orientation (2:00-3:00pm, Gym)
04/03              Annandale Pyramid Art Show at AHS (6:00-8:00pm)
04/07              Family Food Market (3:45-4:30pm, Cafeteria)
04/08              ATES Spring Concert (6:00 PM- 5th grade Chorus;
                       6:30 PM- 5th grade Band; 7:30 PM- 4th & 5th grade Strings)
                       ATES Art Show (5:30pm – 7:30pm, Cafeteria)
04/14-18         Spring Break
04/24              Gr. 4 Field Trip to Kennedy Center

Congratulations to Ms. Cindy Rogers on being selected as Region 6's Outstanding Operational Employee! This well-deserved recognition is a testament to the incredible dedication and hard work she puts into supporting the Annandale Terrace Elementary School community. Dr. Boyd had the pleasure of presenting this award, and we were honored to have School Board Member Mr. Moon join us to celebrate Cindy’s achievements and share a few words. We are so grateful for everything Cindy does to keep our school running smoothly—this recognition is truly a reflection of her outstanding contributions!.

Our 5th grade students had an opportunity to go to Hidden Oaks Nature Center this past week where they had an opportunity to learn all about watersheds and enjoy walking the trails.

This past Friday, our students had the opportunity to connect through Reading Buddies! Our 5th graders teamed up with their 2nd-grade buddies to share stories, practice reading skills, and build meaningful connections. It was a joy to see students engaged and supporting each other. Way to go, readers!

At Annandale Terrace, we believe that every student deserves a trusted adult they can connect with at school. Through our mentoring program, caring adults build meaningful relationships with students, offering guidance, encouragement, and support. These connections help foster confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.

A huge thank you to Everyone Reads for their generosity and dedication to fostering a love of reading at Annandale Terrace! They helped us set up our Little Library and filled it with books for our students to enjoy. Additionally, they provided books for students to choose from during dismissal, ensuring that every child has access to great stories. We appreciate their support in making reading more accessible and exciting for our students!

Fairfax County Public Schools is making strides toward a more sustainable future with the use of electric school buses, and we are lucky to have two of them transporting our students! These buses help reduce emissions, lower noise pollution, and promote cleaner air for our students and community. We are excited to be part of this eco-friendly initiative and grateful for the opportunity to support a greener tomorrow!

This St. Patrick’s Day, we celebrated our amazing teachers with a delicious potato bar and a cup filled with surprise trinkets—a little token of appreciation for all they do! We are so lucky to have such a dedicated and hardworking staff!

Arbor/Earth Day T-Shirt Sign Up

We will celebrate Arbor/Earth Day on April 22nd. Please help us to celebrate this day by purchasing a t-shirt for your student / family member(s). This survey ( https://forms.gle/VfhfeNohsNKKoogq7) will be closed on 04/02/2025.  

We Want Your Feedback! Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Questionnaire

On Monday, March 24, parents and guardians of [School Name] will receive an email with a link to the FCPS Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the Performance Evaluation Program and provides an opportunity to share anonymous feedback about our school’s leadership and environment.

 

Topics covered in the survey include:

✅ Instructional leadership

✅ School climate

✅ Management (human resources and organizational)

✅ Communication and community relations

✅ Culturally responsive and equitable leadership

✅ Professionalism

 

The questionnaire will be open March 24 – April 4 and will be collected online. Keep an eye out for an email from [email protected] and take a few minutes to complete it.

Your input is valuable and helps shape the future of our school. Thank you for your time and feedback!

Annandale Terrace Elementary Spirit Wear Shop

Please visit www.campussurvivalkits.com/ates to shop ATES customized apparel. Enjoy free school delivery for orders placed from now through April 26! Flat rate $5 shipping fee applies for orders placed after April 26. A portion of all sales benefits the Annandale Terrace PTA — support your school while you shop!

⏰ Coming Soon: School Start Times Survey

Last year, FCPS held community forums and surveyed middle school families regarding middle school start times. Now, we would like to hear from all staff and families on the possibility of adjusting school start times across the division. The goal remains to begin middle school at 8 a.m. or later at the start of the 2026-27 school year.

On April 1, a survey link will be sent by email to staff, parents/caregivers, and students in grades 5-12. The confidential survey will be open for two weeks and will be available in multiple languages.

Advanced Academic Programs (AAP)

Spring AAP Newsletter ES (PDF) is also available in multiple languages:

Arabic | Chinese | English | Korean | Spanish | Urdu | Vietnamese

Kindergarten Orientation

Do you or someone you know have a child, that will be 5 years old, on or before September 30, 2025?  If so, please join us for the 2025-2026 Kindergarten Orientation. During this event, families will have the opportunity to meet the Kindergarten teachers, administrators and other school staff while getting a glimpse of a day in Kindergarten classrooms. We look forward to you joining us!  

Kindergarten Orientation will be held on April 01, 2025 from 2:00-3:00pm in the gymnasium of Annandale Terrace Elementary School.

For more information about the registration process in other languages, visit FCPS’Kindergarten Registration webpage.

🏫 Helping Your Child Prepare for Kindergarten

We recognize that parents are their children’s first teachers. Explore the resources on FCPS’ School Readiness and Transition to Kindergarten webpage for ways to help ensure your child starts kindergarten with confidence.

Next Steps in the Budget Process

The next steps in the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process include the School Board presenting the budget to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, April 22. The Board of Supervisors will then conduct public hearings Tuesday, April 22, through Thursday, April 24. Community members can submit testimony or sign up to speak. 

Visit the county government website to view the Fairfax County FY 2026 Advertised Budget. The community is also invited to complete an online survey to provide feedback on the county’s FY 2026 Advertised Budget. 

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process.

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

🎤 Save the Date: Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid

Your voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! Share your thoughts and ask questions regarding FCPS on Wednesday, April 23, Mason Crest Elementary School from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid. 

🛑 Cameras Installed on School Bus Stop Arms

Cameras have been installed on the stop arms of 50 FCPS school buses. These cameras will be used to identify drivers who pass stopped school buses while children are entering and exiting the bus (called a “stop arm violation”). 

Warnings for drivers will begin on Wednesday, April 9. After a 30-day warning period, citations will begin to be issued on Monday, May 12.

According to Virginia law, drivers must stop for stopped school buses with flashing red lights on and their stop signs extended. Motorists should stop when approaching from any direction (unless there is a barrier or median separating their lane from where the bus is stopped). They should remain stopped until everyone is clear and the bus is moving. 

We appreciate our law enforcement partners for working with us to improve road safety and reduce accidents. Read more information about the stop arm cameras and all of the ways that we work with our county partners to keep students safe on their way to and from school.

📍 The Comprehensive School Boundary Review Process Explained

Want to learn more about the ongoing Comprehensive School Boundary Review process? Watch this video for explanations of terms such as attendance zones, attendance islands, split feeders, and other factors that affect school boundaries. The video will also be available in other languages soon.

 Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information and sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter.

Preparing for Tough Conversations With Teens

Discussing tough topics like fentanyl and other drugs can feel challenging — no matter how close you are with your child. Explain to your teen that it’s important to learn about fentanyl so they know what to do if a friend overdoses. Prepare in advance with the tips below:

• Set the stage. Choose a casual environment that’s free from distractions. Talk while driving, taking a walk, or doing chores together. 
• Make it a two-way discussion. Ask open-ended questions. 
• Stay patient and reserve judgment. 
• Check in with your child early and often. 

Visit our website for more information on how to Become Unskippable with your teens.

Give Your Kids a Strong Start: Apply for Early Childhood Education Programs

FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying children with economic and educational risk factors ages 6 weeks to 4 years living in Fairfax County. 

Pre-K prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children 3 years old by September 30. Early Head Start is located at three elementary schools — Clearview, Crestwood, and Dogwood — and accepts applications from expectant mothers and for children 6 weeks to 2 years old.

Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, however, space is limited and provided based on need, not “first come, first serve.” Applications are accepted online, by email, by postal mail, or in person at our office at 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia 22042.  

If you have a question about the application process or status, please call 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish).

🗣️ Connect With Your Kids: Simple Steps to Stronger Communication

Teens skip things that don't interest them, including lectures from their parents. How do you connect with your children and really know what's going on in their lives? How can you become “unskippable”?

Effective communication can build trust and understanding, but it takes thought, planning, and effort. 

The latest Healthy Minds Blog offers practical strategies to improve communication and build strong, lasting relationships:

• Ditch distractions and create a safe space where your child feels comfortable opening up.
• Listen actively and validate their feelings, even if you don't agree.
• Ask "how" questions instead of "what" questions to get them talking about their experiences.

For more tips and techniques, read the full article on the Healthy Minds Blog, which shares information related to youth mental health and wellness.

For support on talking with your teen about difficult subjects like fentanyl, discover how to Become Unskippable.

Eating Disorder Parent Information

The Code of Virginia, 22.1-273.2 requires schools provide, on an annual basis, parents/guardians educational information regarding eating disorders for students in grades five through twelve.

According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA 2023), Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. In the United States, 28.8 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives. There is no single cause of an eating disorder. Rather, it is a complex combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that converge and set off an individual’s predisposed genetic vulnerability.

In collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department, FCPS has developed a web page with detailed information and resources to be provided to parents and guardians of Fairfax County Public Schools. This information may be found at Eating Disorders. 

Help and Resources for Infants, Toddlers, and Their Families

Are you concerned about your infant, toddler, or preschool-aged child's development? Resources are available if your child exhibits difficulties in one or more of the following areas:

• communication, 
• fine and/or gross motor skills, 
• self-help skills, 
• problem solving 
• attention skills

Learn more about typical developmental milestones.

 

The Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia (ITC) is the state’s early intervention system for infants and toddlers (0-36 months) with disabilities and their families. ITC provides evaluations and services for children who have developmental delays or medical conditions that may affect development. Parents are encouraged to contact ITC at 703-246-7121 to share their concerns.

Early Childhood Child Find is the process of identifying children with potential special education needs between the ages of 20 months and 5 years (children must be two by September 30). 

FCPS Early Childhood Identification and Services (ECID&S) offers a free referral process to identify potential developmental delays or disabilities. Special education services are provided for all children who are found eligible through the referral process. Parents are encouraged to contact 571-423-4121 with questions or to make a referral.

✨ Helping students meet the criteria for kindergarten readiness is Goal 1 of the Strategic Plan.

☀️ Save the Date for the FCPS Summer Extravaganza

Discover summer learning and activities available in Fairfax County! 

Attend the FCPS Summer Extravaganza on Saturday, May 10, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., at Woodson High School and get a jump on summer learning. At this free event, participants can engage in educational and enrichment activities designed to inspire curiosity and growth. 

Activities will include student performances, story time, a moon bounce, and face painting. For more information, visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage.

Please see the PDF version of Fairfax County Info Flyer:We Are Here For You_English.pdf

2025 Youth Summer Basketball Camp

The camp will be at Annandale HS, July 21-25 (9am-3pm).  The camp is open to boys and girls entering 3rd through 9th grade next school year. Registration fee is $225 this year! Email the Coach McAvory or Coach Harrison for questions. 

🚀 Prepare for a Summer of Learning and Fun

Registration will be available soon for summer camps offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students. Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA) camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration begins for these programs on Monday, March 10, and ends Friday, June 6.

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore activities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Watch this video about CTE camps.

E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. 

For more information, see the Summer Learning page.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra learning resources. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

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

• School Start Times Survey
• Science Fair Winners
• Celebrating Champion Students and Staff

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

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates:

03/26             Spring Pictures & 5th grade Panoramic
                      Gr. 5 Field Trip to Hidden Oaks Nature Center
                      (O’Neal & Garvin)
03/31             Eid al-Fir/ Student Holiday-No School
04/01             Teacher Workday (Student Holiday, No School)
                      Kindergarten Orientation (2:00-3:00pm, Gym)
04/03             Annandale Pyramid Art Show at AHS (6:00-8:00pm)
04/07             Family Food Market (3:45-4:30pm, Cafeteria)
04/08             Band/Strings/Chorus concert(5:00pm – 7:00pm, Gym)
                      ATES Art Show (5:30pm – 7:00pm, Cafeteria)
04/14-18        Spring Break
04/24             Gr. 4 Field Trip to Kennedy Center

This picture has been captioned: “Sir, am I in trouble?” Mr. Martir, one of our amazing Enhanced Autism Instructional Assistants worked with this amazing student in completing one of the state assessments. Afterwards, the student, just for fun, took on the role as an administrator while Mr. Martir sat on the opposite side. What a great picture! So wonderful to see the positive relationship between staff and student.

Our first-grade students went on a field trip to Green Springs Garden. During their visit they engaged in a 2-hour nature program integrating some of Virginia Science SOLs. So much fun was had by all!

As part of our Get 2 Green initiative, students are learning the importance of recycling! Each classroom now has a designated recycling bin, and students have been taught how to properly recycle paper. Every afternoon, our amazing Get 2 Green students, alongside students from our Enhanced Autism Program, team up to collect and ensure the recycled paper is disposed of correctly. It is truly inspiring to see the partnership between these two groups of students as they work together toward a common goal. A huge shoutout to Ms. Ireland and Ms. Carr-Hogan for organizing this meaningful initiative! ♻️🌿

On Thursday, March 13, 2025, the Literacy Committee hosted an incredible Glow in the Dark Literacy Night! Students had a blast practicing sounds, sight words, listening to engaging stories, and selecting free books to take home. A huge thank you to Tina Fisher, Caitlyn Lynch, and Nina Bloom, along with all the amazing volunteers who helped make this night such a success!

Friday, March 14, 2025, was Pi Day! Our students had a blast going on a scavenger hunt looking for 100 pictures hidden around the school of Mrs. Badia. Once students found a picture, they turned it over to see if the mathematical pi symbol was on the back. If they had a , they then turned in their picture to the math room for a small pie to take home.

In celebration of Pi Day, our Social Committee treated our staff with an assortment of pies. We had apple pie, blueberry pie, etc…. We also treated our teachers with pizza pie for lunch!

Arbor/Earth Day T-Shirt Sign Up

We will celebrate Arbor/Earth Day on April 22nd. Please help us to celebrate this day by purchasing a t-shirt for your student / family member(s). This survey ( https://forms.gle/VfhfeNohsNKKoogq7) will be closed on 03/31/2025.  

We Want Your Feedback! Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Questionnaire

On Monday, March 24, parents and guardians of [School Name] will receive an email with a link to the FCPS Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the Performance Evaluation Program and provides an opportunity to share anonymous feedback about our school’s leadership and environment.

 

Topics covered in the survey include:

✅ Instructional leadership

✅ School climate

✅ Management (human resources and organizational)

✅ Communication and community relations

✅ Culturally responsive and equitable leadership

✅ Professionalism

 

The questionnaire will be open March 24 – April 4 and will be collected online. Keep an eye out for an email from [email protected] and take a few minutes to complete it.

Your input is valuable and helps shape the future of our school. Thank you for your time and feedback!

Advanced Academic Programs (AAP)

Spring AAP Newsletter ES (PDF) is also available in multiple languages:

Arabic | Chinese | English | Korean | Spanish | Urdu | Vietnamese

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

Kindergarten Orientation

Do you or someone you know have a child, that will be 5 years old, on or before September 30, 2025?  If so, please join us for the 2025-2026 Kindergarten Orientation. During this event, families will have the opportunity to meet the Kindergarten teachers, administrators and other school staff while getting a glimpse of a day in Kindergarten classrooms. We look forward to you joining us!  

Kindergarten Orientation will be held on April 01, 2025 from 2:00-3:00pm in the gymnasium of Annandale Terrace Elementary School.

For more information about the registration process in other languages, visit FCPS’Kindergarten Registration webpage.

Next Steps in the Budget Process

The next steps in the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process include the School Board presenting the budget to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, April 22. The Board of Supervisors will then conduct public hearings Tuesday, April 22, through Thursday, April 24. Community members can submit testimony or sign up to speak. 

Visit the county government website to view the Fairfax County FY 2026 Advertised Budget. The community is also invited to complete an online survey to provide feedback on the county’s FY 2026 Advertised Budget. 

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process.

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

🎤 Save the Date: Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid

Your voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! Share your thoughts and ask questions regarding FCPS on Monday, March 24, Kings Park Elementary School from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid. 

🛑 Cameras Installed on School Bus Stop Arms

Cameras have been installed on the stop arms of 50 FCPS school buses. These cameras will be used to identify drivers who pass stopped school buses while children are entering and exiting the bus (called a “stop arm violation”). 

Warnings for drivers will begin on Wednesday, April 9. After a 30-day warning period, citations will begin to be issued on Monday, May 12.

According to Virginia law, drivers must stop for stopped school buses with flashing red lights on and their stop signs extended. Motorists should stop when approaching from any direction (unless there is a barrier or median separating their lane from where the bus is stopped). They should remain stopped until everyone is clear and the bus is moving. 

We appreciate our law enforcement partners for working with us to improve road safety and reduce accidents. Read more information about the stop arm cameras and all of the ways that we work with our county partners to keep students safe on their way to and from school.

📍 The Comprehensive School Boundary Review Process Explained

Want to learn more about the ongoing Comprehensive School Boundary Review process? Watch this video for explanations of terms such as attendance zones, attendance islands, split feeders, and other factors that affect school boundaries. The video will also be available in other languages soon.

 Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information and sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter.

Preparing for Tough Conversations With Teens

Discussing tough topics like fentanyl and other drugs can feel challenging — no matter how close you are with your child. Explain to your teen that it’s important to learn about fentanyl so they know what to do if a friend overdoses. Prepare in advance with the tips below:

• Set the stage. Choose a casual environment that’s free from distractions. Talk while driving, taking a walk, or doing chores together. 
• Make it a two-way discussion. Ask open-ended questions. 
• Stay patient and reserve judgment. 
• Check in with your child early and often. 

Visit our website for more information on how to Become Unskippable with your teens.

Give Your Kids a Strong Start: Apply for Early Childhood Education Programs

FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying children with economic and educational risk factors ages 6 weeks to 4 years living in Fairfax County. 

Pre-K prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children 3 years old by September 30. Early Head Start is located at three elementary schools — Clearview, Crestwood, and Dogwood — and accepts applications from expectant mothers and for children 6 weeks to 2 years old.

Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, however, space is limited and provided based on need, not “first come, first serve.” Applications are accepted online, by email, by postal mail, or in person at our office at 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia 22042.  

If you have a question about the application process or status, please call 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish).

🗣️ Connect With Your Kids: Simple Steps to Stronger Communication

Teens skip things that don't interest them, including lectures from their parents. How do you connect with your children and really know what's going on in their lives? How can you become “unskippable”?

Effective communication can build trust and understanding, but it takes thought, planning, and effort. 

The latest Healthy Minds Blog offers practical strategies to improve communication and build strong, lasting relationships:

• Ditch distractions and create a safe space where your child feels comfortable opening up.
• Listen actively and validate their feelings, even if you don't agree.
• Ask "how" questions instead of "what" questions to get them talking about their experiences.

For more tips and techniques, read the full article on the Healthy Minds Blog, which shares information related to youth mental health and wellness.

For support on talking with your teen about difficult subjects like fentanyl, discover how to Become Unskippable.

Eating Disorder Parent Information

The Code of Virginia, 22.1-273.2 requires schools provide, on an annual basis, parents/guardians educational information regarding eating disorders for students in grades five through twelve.

According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA 2023), Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. In the United States, 28.8 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives. There is no single cause of an eating disorder. Rather, it is a complex combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that converge and set off an individual’s predisposed genetic vulnerability.

In collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department, FCPS has developed a web page with detailed information and resources to be provided to parents and guardians of Fairfax County Public Schools. This information may be found at Eating Disorders. 

Help and Resources for Infants, Toddlers, and Their Families

Are you concerned about your infant, toddler, or preschool-aged child's development? Resources are available if your child exhibits difficulties in one or more of the following areas:

• communication, 
• fine and/or gross motor skills, 
• self-help skills, 
• problem solving 
• attention skills

Learn more about typical developmental milestones.

 

The Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia (ITC) is the state’s early intervention system for infants and toddlers (0-36 months) with disabilities and their families. ITC provides evaluations and services for children who have developmental delays or medical conditions that may affect development. Parents are encouraged to contact ITC at 703-246-7121 to share their concerns.

Early Childhood Child Find is the process of identifying children with potential special education needs between the ages of 20 months and 5 years (children must be two by September 30). 

FCPS Early Childhood Identification and Services (ECID&S) offers a free referral process to identify potential developmental delays or disabilities. Special education services are provided for all children who are found eligible through the referral process. Parents are encouraged to contact 571-423-4121 with questions or to make a referral.

✨ Helping students meet the criteria for kindergarten readiness is Goal 1 of the Strategic Plan.

Please see the PDF version of Health Flyer: HealthFlyerforParents.pdf

Please see the PDF version of Fairfax County Info Flyer:We Are Here For You_English.pdf

2025 Youth Summer Basketball Camp

The camp will be at Annandale HS, July 21-25 (9am-3pm).  The camp is open to boys and girls entering 3rd through 9th grade next school year. Registration fee is $225 this year! Email the Coach McAvory or Coach Harrison for questions. 

🚀 Prepare for a Summer of Learning and Fun

Registration will be available soon for summer camps offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students. Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA) camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration begins for these programs on Monday, March 10, and ends Friday, June 6.

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore activities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Watch this video about CTE camps.

E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. 

For more information, see the Summer Learning page.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra learning resources. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

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

• • Student Achievements
  • Art in our Schools Month
  • Celebrating Students Setting Positive Examples

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

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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Upcoming Dates:

03/19             Gr. 5 Field Trip to Hidden Oaks Nature Center   
                      (Abourakty & Rigby)
                      Gr. 3 Field Trip to Colvin Run Mill
                      (Purdy, Campbell & Jochum)
03/20             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)
                      Gr. 3 Field Trip to Colvin Run Mill
                      (Jacobson & Worsley)
03/26             Spring Pictures & 5th grade Panoramic
                      Gr. 5 Field Trip to Hidden Oaks Nature Center
                      (O’Neal & Garvin)
03/31             Eid al-Fir/ Student Holiday-No School
04/01             Teacher Workday (Student Holiday, No School)
                      Kindergarten Orientation (2:00-3:00pm, Gym)
04/03             Annandale Pyramid Art Show at AHS (6:00-8:00pm)
04/07             Family Food Market (3:45-4:30pm, Cafeteria)
04/08             Band/Strings/Chorus concert(5:00pm – 7:00pm, Gym)
                      ATES Art Show (5:30pm – 7:00pm, Cafeteria)
04/14-18        Spring Break
04/24             Gr. 4 Field Trip to Kennedy Center

The admin team spent Saturday morning at the instructional job fair held at Lake Braddock Secondary School. We had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing candidates for the 25-26 school year.

On Friday, we had the honor of being filmed for this month’s School Board’s Academic Matters segment. A huge thank you to Ms. Brogan and Ms. Fisher for being so willing to participate and model how the Walk to Intervention looks like at Annandale Terrace. Stay tuned for the full video clip which will be aired at the March 27, 2025, School Board meeting.

Students who participate in the mentoring program had the pleasure of attending an assembly by Eric Energy. This assembly focused on science topics where the students witnessed eye-catching experiments. Thank you to Ms. Boyle, our School Counselor, for organizing this event.

Look at the amazing work our EAC students are doing during their literacy block. Students were reviewing vocabulary words while writing them in their notebooks. A huge thank you to Ms. Mousa and her IAs, Ms. Barrera and Mr. Martir, for being such an amazing team of educators.

ATES Student Parent Lunch_03/20/25

The Family Engagement Committee is sponsoring the Student-Parent Lunch Day on March 20th, 2025. Parents are invited to have lunch with their student during their lunch time. This event is part of increasing family engagement at ATES and providing parents an opportunity to come to the school. The price for lunch is $5.00 for all guests (Free of charge for all students in Annandale Terrace). Please complete this survey (https://forms.gle/pB58mX1UJuAGrvoy7) if you are planning to attend. Thank you!

Arbor/Earth Day T-Shirt Sign Up

We will celebrate Arbor/Earth Day on April 22nd. Please help us to celebrate this day by purchasing a t-shirt for your student / family member(s). This survey ( https://forms.gle/VfhfeNohsNKKoogq7) will be closed on 03/31/2025.  

Reminder to Sign Up Weekly for Student Fasting Meal Kits

Students who are fasting during the school day between now and March 28 can take school meal kits home at the end of the day. Families must fill out a separate request form for each week and for each student in order to receive school meal kits. To receive meal kits for the week of March 24, please fill out this form by March 17. 

Please remind your child to pick up their meals each day at our school’s designated location. Visit the Food and Nutrition Services webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

FCPS Budget — Our Students Deserve the Best

More than $240 million of FCPS’ Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Advertised Budget is dedicated to increasing compensation for our teachers and staff to stay competitive and reduce turnover. Currently, FCPS ranks fifth out of eight neighboring districts in regards to starting salary for teachers with a master’s degree. 

Our families expect — and our students deserve — the best teachers.

Next Steps in the Budget Process

The next steps in the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process include the School Board presenting the budget to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, April 22, and then the Board of Supervisors will conduct public hearings Tuesday, April 22, through Thursday, April 24. Community members can submit testimony or sign up to speak. 

Visit the county government website to view the Fairfax County FY 2026 Advertised Budget. The community is also invited to complete an online survey to provide feedback on the county’s FY 2026 Advertised Budget. 

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process.

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

2025 Family Summit - Beyond Labels: Nurturing a Culture of Belonging! (an Extension of the Special Education Conference)

Families, educators, and community members are invited to the 2025 FCPS Family Summit: Beyond Labels: Nurturing a Culture of Belonging. Fairfax County Public Schools will be hosting the free, in-person event in collaboration with valued community partners. The summit will be held Saturday, March 15, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at South Lakes High School.

This event will feature: 

• Opening Session: Julie Causton and Kristie Pretti-Frontczak — best-selling authors, motivational speakers, and advocates for inclusion — will share practical tools and evidence-based strategies to empower and assist all families, with a special emphasis on parents of students with individual education programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans.
• Breakout Sessions: Learn more about special education and global topics that benefit all families.

• Student Showcase: FCPS students will share their efforts in fostering inclusivity through posters, essays, videos, songs, art, and other mediums.
• Exhibitor Hall: Discover valuable resources and services in the community to support families.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with other families, staff, and community partners.

Childcare will be provided. Special education staff will be available to care for children with high support needs. You may sign up for childcare during the registration process. 

Learn more about this event and register today! Contact [email protected] for more information.

🎤 Save the Date: Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid

Your voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! Share your thoughts and ask questions regarding FCPS on Monday, March 24, Kings Park Elementary School from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid. 

🛑 Cameras Installed on School Bus Stop Arms

Cameras have been installed on the stop arms of 50 FCPS school buses. These cameras will be used to identify drivers who pass stopped school buses while children are entering and exiting the bus (called a “stop arm violation”). 

Warnings for drivers will begin on Wednesday, April 9. After a 30-day warning period, citations will begin to be issued on Monday, May 12.

According to Virginia law, drivers must stop for stopped school buses with flashing red lights on and their stop signs extended. Motorists should stop when approaching from any direction (unless there is a barrier or median separating their lane from where the bus is stopped). They should remain stopped until everyone is clear and the bus is moving. 

We appreciate our law enforcement partners for working with us to improve road safety and reduce accidents. Read more information about the stop arm cameras and all of the ways that we work with our county partners to keep students safe on their way to and from school.

📍 The Comprehensive School Boundary Review Process Explained

Want to learn more about the ongoing Comprehensive School Boundary Review process? Watch this video for explanations of terms such as attendance zones, attendance islands, split feeders, and other factors that affect school boundaries. The video will also be available in other languages soon.

 Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information and sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter.

Preparing for Tough Conversations With Teens

Discussing tough topics like fentanyl and other drugs can feel challenging — no matter how close you are with your child. Explain to your teen that it’s important to learn about fentanyl so they know what to do if a friend overdoses. Prepare in advance with the tips below:

• Set the stage. Choose a casual environment that’s free from distractions. Talk while driving, taking a walk, or doing chores together. 
• Make it a two-way discussion. Ask open-ended questions. 
• Stay patient and reserve judgment. 
• Check in with your child early and often. 

Visit our website for more information on how to Become Unskippable with your teens.

🐻 It’s Kindergarten Registration Time!

Attending kindergarten provides children with an opportunity to learn and practice the essential social, emotional, problem-solving, and self-regulation skills they will use throughout their lives. Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, between January and April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

Families should prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms on the FCPS kindergarten registration webpage. FCPS offers support and resources for all families to help with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For support in other languages, visit the kindergarten registration webpage.

Give Your Kids a Strong Start: Apply for Early Childhood Education Programs

FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying children with economic and educational risk factors ages 6 weeks to 4 years living in Fairfax County. 

Pre-K prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children 3 years old by September 30. Early Head Start is located at three elementary schools — Clearview, Crestwood, and Dogwood — and accepts applications from expectant mothers and for children 6 weeks to 2 years old.

Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, however, space is limited and provided based on need, not “first come, first serve.” Applications are accepted online, by email, by postal mail, or in person at our office at 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia 22042.  

If you have a question about the application process or status, please call 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish).

🗣️ Connect With Your Kids: Simple Steps to Stronger Communication

Teens skip things that don't interest them, including lectures from their parents. How do you connect with your children and really know what's going on in their lives? How can you become “unskippable”?

Effective communication can build trust and understanding, but it takes thought, planning, and effort. 

The latest Healthy Minds Blog offers practical strategies to improve communication and build strong, lasting relationships:

• Ditch distractions and create a safe space where your child feels comfortable opening up.
• Listen actively and validate their feelings, even if you don't agree.
• Ask "how" questions instead of "what" questions to get them talking about their experiences.

For more tips and techniques, read the full article on the Healthy Minds Blog, which shares information related to youth mental health and wellness.

For support on talking with your teen about difficult subjects like fentanyl, discover how to Become Unskippable.

Eating Disorder Parent Information

The Code of Virginia, 22.1-273.2 requires schools provide, on an annual basis, parents/guardians educational information regarding eating disorders for students in grades five through twelve.

According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA 2023), Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. In the United States, 28.8 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives. There is no single cause of an eating disorder. Rather, it is a complex combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that converge and set off an individual’s predisposed genetic vulnerability.

In collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department, FCPS has developed a web page with detailed information and resources to be provided to parents and guardians of Fairfax County Public Schools. This information may be found at Eating Disorders. 

🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community From the Flu

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.

Please see the PDF version of Health Flyer: HealthFlyerforParents.pdf

Please see the PDF version of Fairfax County Info Flyer:We Are Here For You_English.pdf

2025 Youth Summer Basketball Camp

The camp will be at Annandale HS, July 21-25 (9am-3pm).  The camp is open to boys and girls entering 3rd through 9th grade next school year. Registration fee is $225 this year! Email the Coach McAvory or Coach Harrison for questions. 

🚀 Prepare for a Summer of Learning and Fun

Registration will be available soon for summer camps offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students. Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA) camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration begins for these programs on Monday, March 10, and ends Friday, June 6.

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore activities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Watch this video about CTE camps.

E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. 

For more information, see the Summer Learning page.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra learning resources. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

• In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
• Second Annual Food Show
• Cameras on School Bus Stop Arms
• Comprehensive Boundary Review Process Explained

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

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
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Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

Upcoming Dates:

03/10             3-Hour Early Release -Dismissal time 12:20pm
03/13             Family Literacy Night (5:30-7:00pm, Cafeteria & Gym)
03/14             Parent Coffee (9:00-10:00am, Cafeteria)
                      Topic: Supporting Health and Behavioral Development at Home
03/19             Gr. 5 Field Trip to Hidden Oaks Nature Center   
                      (Abourakty & Rigby)
                      Gr. 3 Field Trip to Colvin Run Mill
                      (Purdy, Campbell & Jochum)
03/20             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)
                      Gr. 3 Field Trip to Colvin Run Mill
                      (Jacobson & Worsley)
03/26             Spring Pictures & 5th grade Panoramic
                      Gr. 5 Field Trip to Hidden Oaks Nature Center
                      (O’Neal & Garvin)
03/31             Eid al-Fir/ Student Holiday-No School
04/01             Kindergarten Orientation (2:00-3:00pm, Gym)
04/03             Annandale Pyramid Art Show at AHS (6:00-8:00pm)
04/07             Family Food Market (3:45-4:30pm, Cafeteria)
04/08             Band/Strings/Chorus concert(5:00pm – 7:00pm, Gym)
04/14-18        Spring Break
04/24             Gr. 4 Field Trip to Kennedy Center

Daily Attendance Matters!
Can we reach 95% attendance? Over the past few weeks, we’ve been trending at 93%, which is impressive—but that still means about 48 students are missing school each day. That’s the equivalent of two full classrooms! Every day of learning counts, so let’s work together to ensure our students are here, engaged, and thriving. Let’s push for 95%!

Ms. McCarry’s class loves Ms. Rama! They are always so excited when she comes to the classroom to bring them something. At least once a week Ms. McCarry’s class talks about how great Ms. Rama and her friends are for making our yummy food. 😊

Here is Ms. Hibdon’s kindergarten class enjoying a hot cocoa and a pajama day! Ms. Hibdon’s class has earned 90 paw praise tickets for demonstrating responsible, respectful, and safe behaviors in the common areas of the school.

Our Get 2 Green club paired up with our 1st grade students to teach them about plants, their needs, and their life cycles! They planted carrots, broccoli, chives, cilantro, and sugar snap peas for our indoor garden. The first graders will get to watch the plants go through the start of their life cycles in our library before they are transferred to our outdoor garden.

Volunteers are needed for Family Literacy Night_03/13/2025

Literacy Night is on Thursday, March 13th, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM, and we are looking for volunteers to help make the event a success!

Volunteer duties include:

• Distributing pizza to families
• Assisting a teacher at one of the literacy stations

If you are interested in volunteering, please sign up here 

https://forms.gle/qgSrcDv6rroT55NM7

 

Thank you for helping us create a fun and educational evening for our students! 

ATES Student Parent Lunch_03/20/25

The Family Engagement Committee is sponsoring the Student-Parent Lunch Day on March 20th, 2025. Parents are invited to have lunch with their student during their lunch time. This event is part of increasing family engagement at ATES and providing parents an opportunity to come to the school. The price for lunch is $5.00 for all guests (Free of charge for all students in Annandale Terrace). Please complete this survey (https://forms.gle/pB58mX1UJuAGrvoy7) if you are planning to attend. Thank you!

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28, 2025

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has issued a new, first-time waiver allowing students fasting during the school day from February 28 to March 28, 2025, to request take-home breakfast and lunch meal kits. The Office of Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) will provide meal kits reflecting the school menu. Meals will be kept cold and must be heated at home. Students may claim one breakfast and one lunch kit per day. If a student purchases breakfast or lunch at school, they cannot pick up a kit that day. Meal kits must be picked up by students at the end of the school day—adults cannot collect them. Parents or guardians must submit a weekly request form via the FCPS FNS website by the deadlines:

• March 10, 2025, for the week of March 17, 2025
• March 17, 2025, for the week of March 24, 2025

Forms must be submitted on time to receive meal kits for the following week.

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

Developing a Strong Academic Foundation, Curiosity, and Joy for Learning.

The FCPS Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Advertised Budget invests in academic growth and excellence for each and every student, which is one of the priorities of the FCPS Strategic Plan. 

A strong start for every student is Goal 1 of the Strategic Plan. Pre-K classrooms are making a difference in our community. In this video, we explore the importance of bringing children under the age of five together, regardless of abilities.

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Advertised Budget. View the Budget Development Calendar to stay up to date and learn about opportunities to provide feedback to Fairfax County and FCPS.

💬 Share Your Input on the County Budget

The Fairfax County government presented its Fiscal Year 2026 Advertised Budget Plan to the Board of Supervisors on February 18. The community is invited to share feedback through an online survey, email, phone calls, or by attending Budget Town Hall meetings.

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

2025 Family Summit - Beyond Labels: Nurturing a Culture of Belonging! (an Extension of the Special Education Conference)

Families, educators, and community members are invited to the 2025 FCPS Family Summit: Beyond Labels: Nurturing a Culture of Belonging. Fairfax County Public Schools will be hosting the free, in-person event in collaboration with valued community partners. The summit will be held Saturday, March 15, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at South Lakes High School.

This event will feature: 

• Opening Session: Julie Causton and Kristie Pretti-Frontczak — best-selling authors, motivational speakers, and advocates for inclusion — will share practical tools and evidence-based strategies to empower and assist all families, with a special emphasis on parents of students with individual education programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans.
• Breakout Sessions: Learn more about special education and global topics that benefit all families.

• Student Showcase: FCPS students will share their efforts in fostering inclusivity through posters, essays, videos, songs, art, and other mediums.
• Exhibitor Hall: Discover valuable resources and services in the community to support families.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with other families, staff, and community partners.

Childcare will be provided. Special education staff will be available to care for children with high support needs. You may sign up for childcare during the registration process. 

Learn more about this event and register today! Contact [email protected] for more information.

Preparing for Tough Conversations With Teens

Discussing tough topics like fentanyl and other drugs can feel challenging — no matter how close you are with your child. Explain to your teen that it’s important to learn about fentanyl so they know what to do if a friend overdoses. Prepare in advance with the tips below:

• Set the stage. Choose a casual environment that’s free from distractions. Talk while driving, taking a walk, or doing chores together. 
• Make it a two-way discussion. Ask open-ended questions. 
• Stay patient and reserve judgment. 
• Check in with your child early and often. 

Visit our website for more information on how to Become Unskippable with your teens.

🐻 It’s Kindergarten Registration Time!

Attending kindergarten provides children with an opportunity to learn and practice the essential social, emotional, problem-solving, and self-regulation skills they will use throughout their lives. Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, between January and April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

Families should prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms on the FCPS kindergarten registration webpage. FCPS offers support and resources for all families to help with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For support in other languages, visit the kindergarten registration webpage.

Give Your Kids a Strong Start: Apply for Early Childhood Education Programs

FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying children with economic and educational risk factors ages 6 weeks to 4 years living in Fairfax County. 

Pre-K prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children 3 years old by September 30. Early Head Start is located at three elementary schools — Clearview, Crestwood, and Dogwood — and accepts applications from expectant mothers and for children 6 weeks to 2 years old.

Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, however, space is limited and provided based on need, not “first come, first serve.” Applications are accepted online, by email, by postal mail, or in person at our office at 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia 22042.  

If you have a question about the application process or status, please call 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish).

🗣️ Connect With Your Kids: Simple Steps to Stronger Communication

Teens skip things that don't interest them, including lectures from their parents. How do you connect with your children and really know what's going on in their lives? How can you become “unskippable”?

Effective communication can build trust and understanding, but it takes thought, planning, and effort. 

The latest Healthy Minds Blog offers practical strategies to improve communication and build strong, lasting relationships:

• Ditch distractions and create a safe space where your child feels comfortable opening up.
• Listen actively and validate their feelings, even if you don't agree.
• Ask "how" questions instead of "what" questions to get them talking about their experiences.

For more tips and techniques, read the full article on the Healthy Minds Blog, which shares information related to youth mental health and wellness.

For support on talking with your teen about difficult subjects like fentanyl, discover how to Become Unskippable.

Eating Disorder Parent Information

The Code of Virginia, 22.1-273.2 requires schools provide, on an annual basis, parents/guardians educational information regarding eating disorders for students in grades five through twelve.

According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA 2023), Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. In the United States, 28.8 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives. There is no single cause of an eating disorder. Rather, it is a complex combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that converge and set off an individual’s predisposed genetic vulnerability.

In collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department, FCPS has developed a web page with detailed information and resources to be provided to parents and guardians of Fairfax County Public Schools. This information may be found at Eating Disorders. 

🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community From the Flu

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.

Please see the PDF version of Health Flyer: HealthFlyerforParents.pdf

Please see the PDF version of Fairfax County Info Flyer:We Are Here For You_English.pdf

2025 Youth Summer Basketball Camp

The camp will be at Annandale HS, July 21-25 (9am-3pm).  The camp is open to boys and girls entering 3rd through 9th grade next school year. Registration fee is $225 this year! Email the Coach McAvory or Coach Harrison for questions. 

🚀 Prepare for a Summer of Learning and Fun

Registration will be available soon for summer camps offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students. Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA) camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration begins for these programs on Monday, March 10, and ends Friday, June 6.

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore activities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Watch this video about CTE camps.

E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. 

For more information, see the Summer Learning page.

🍲 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.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra learning resources. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

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

• • A Strong Academic Foundation
  • 70th Annual Regional Science Fair
  • New Breakfast Options

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

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates:

03/03             Family Food Market (3:45-4:30pm, Cafeteria)
03/03-03/07   Read Across America Week
03/06             Gr. 1 Field Trip to Green Spring Garden
                      (McCall, Demery-Debrow, and Prasser)
03/07             Gr. 1 Field Trip to Green Spring Garden (Aldhobhani & Park)
03/10             3-Hour Early Release -Dismissal time 12:20pm
03/13             Family Literacy Night (5:30-7:00pm, Cafeteria & Gym)
03/14             Parent Coffee (9:00-10:00am, Cafeteria)
                      Topic: Supporting Health and Behavioral Development at Home
03/19             Gr. 5 Field Trip to Hidden Oaks Nature Center   
                      (Abourakty & Rigby)
03/20             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)
03/26             Spring Pictures & 5th grade Panoramic
                      Gr. 5 Field Trip to Hidden Oaks Nature Center
                      (O’Neal & Garvin)
03/31             Eid al-Fir/ Student Holiday-No School
04/01             Kindergarten Orientation (2:00-3:00pm, Gym)
04/03             Annandale Pyramid Art Show at AHS (6:00-8:00pm)
04/07             Family Food Market (3:45-4:30pm, Cafeteria)
04/08             Band/Strings/Chorus concert(5:00pm – 7:00pm, Gym)
04/14-18        Spring Break
04/24             Gr. 4 Field Trip to Kennedy Center

On Friday, February 21, 2025, we offered dental screenings to our kindergarten students. The dentist who oversaw the screenings came with the dental students from FCPS Falls Church Academy. Our Kindergarten students not only got screened by the dentist, but they also learned about the importance of dental hygiene, they participated in fun small group activities, and asked questions. They also got free toothbrushes! A huge thank you to Essel Linton and Michelle Dierkes for organizing this event.

Dance Night - one of Annandale Terrace Elementary School’s most beloved traditions. This tradition started in 1988 by a music and PE teacher who decided to combine their music and PE classes to teach dance. The dance was first held at Annandale Terrace and as the school grew the event was moved to Annandale High School’s cafeteria and then to the main gym which is where we have been hosting this event for more than a decade. Thank you to our current PE and Music teachers for continuing this wonderful tradition! Thank you, also, to all the students and families who came out to enjoy this event!

5th Early Release Monday - March 10, 2025

Our next 3-hour early release is coming up on Monday, 3/10.  Please let us know if your child will be going home at 12:20pm or will need supervision until 3:20 pm via completing https://forms.gle/BECSp8PjNDhTikEV9. If we do not receive a response from parents, we are required to keep your student until 3:20pm.  Please let us know so we can ensure your child gets home safely on Monday. 

Upcoming Student Experience Survey at Annandale Terrace Elementary School

Our school will participate in the FCPS Student Experience Survey. This survey will gather important feedback from students about their school experiences to help FCPS make meaningful improvements.

All students in grades 3-6, except those who have opted out, will receive a link to the survey in their FCPS email on February 24. We will administer the survey during the school day between Monday, February 24, and Friday, March 7. Any student may take the survey at home, if they are unable to take the survey during the school day. You will receive a communication with details on how to preview the survey and opt your child out, if you choose. 

We believe it's important to hear from our students about what we're doing well and where we can improve. This work also aligns with the five equity commitments in FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which focus on amplifying student voice and experiences as we work toward meeting plan goals.

Volunteers are needed for Family Literacy Night_03/13/2025

Literacy Night is on Thursday, March 13th, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM, and we are looking for volunteers to help make the event a success!

Volunteer duties include:

• Distributing pizza to families
• Assisting a teacher at one of the literacy stations

If you are interested in volunteering, please sign up here 

https://forms.gle/qgSrcDv6rroT55NM7

 

Thank you for helping us create a fun and educational evening for our students! 

Learn More About How Your Child Feels at School

The Spring Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students in grades 3-5 during the week of February 24, 2025. Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. More information is available about the SEL Screener by accessing this link: https://www.fcps.edu/student-tests-and-assessments/student-assessment-details/social-emotional-screener  

If you have any questions please reach out to our SEL Screener Leads, Emma Day or Nicole Scher, at [email protected] or [email protected].

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28, 2025

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has issued a new, first-time waiver allowing students fasting during the school day from February 28 to March 28, 2025, to request take-home breakfast and lunch meal kits. The Office of Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) will provide meal kits reflecting the school menu. Meals will be kept cold and must be heated at home. Students may claim one breakfast and one lunch kit per day. If a student purchases breakfast or lunch at school, they cannot pick up a kit that day. Meal kits must be picked up by students at the end of the school day—adults cannot collect them. Parents or guardians must submit a weekly request form via the FCPS FNS website by the deadlines:

• February 24, 2025, for February 28 and the week of March 3, 2025
• March 3, 2025, for the week of March 10, 2025
• March 10, 2025, for the week of March 17, 2025
• March 17, 2025, for the week of March 24, 2025

Forms must be submitted on time to receive meal kits for the following week.

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

📖 Supporting Academic Growth and Reading on Level by Third Grade

The FCPS Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Advertised Budget invests in academic growth and excellence for each and every student, which is one of the priorities of the FCPS Strategic Plan. 

Across FCPS, teachers, staff, parents, and even older students are invested in helping our youngest learners grow their love of reading from a strong foundation. 

The goal is for students to move from “learning to read” to “reading to learn” by the end of the third grade. Reading on grade level is connected to other Strategic Plan goals, including completing advanced coursework and graduating on time. 

Last fall, FCPS introduced a new reading curriculum that emphasized the science of reading. Between fall and winter, reading screener results show more than a 4% increase in the number of students in kindergarten to third grade approaching or meeting expectations. Similarly, 3.4% more third graders demonstrate strong foundations of reading and 8.4% more third graders are mastering grade-level standards. 

Discover how an elementary school employs a science-based approach, including phonics, to supercharge students' reading.

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Advertised Budget. View the Budget Development Calendar to stay up to date.

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

2025 Family Summit - Beyond Labels: Nurturing a Culture of Belonging! (an Extension of the Special Education Conference)

Families, educators, and community members are invited to the 2025 FCPS Family Summit: Beyond Labels: Nurturing a Culture of Belonging. Fairfax County Public Schools will be hosting the free, in-person event in collaboration with valued community partners. The summit will be held Saturday, March 15, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at South Lakes High School.

This event will feature: 

• Opening Session: Julie Causton and Kristie Pretti-Frontczak — best-selling authors, motivational speakers, and advocates for inclusion — will share practical tools and evidence-based strategies to empower and assist all families, with a special emphasis on parents of students with individual education programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans.
• Breakout Sessions: Learn more about special education and global topics that benefit all families.

• Student Showcase: FCPS students will share their efforts in fostering inclusivity through posters, essays, videos, songs, art, and other mediums.
• Exhibitor Hall: Discover valuable resources and services in the community to support families.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with other families, staff, and community partners.

Childcare will be provided. Special education staff will be available to care for children with high support needs. You may sign up for childcare during the registration process. 

Learn more about this event and register today! Contact [email protected] for more information.

🐻 It’s Kindergarten Registration Time!

Attending kindergarten provides children with an opportunity to learn and practice the essential social, emotional, problem-solving, and self-regulation skills they will use throughout their lives. Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, between January and April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

Families should prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms on the FCPS kindergarten registration webpage. FCPS offers support and resources for all families to help with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For support in other languages, visit the kindergarten registration webpage.

🗣️ Connect With Your Kids: Simple Steps to Stronger Communication

Teens skip things that don't interest them, including lectures from their parents. How do you connect with your children and really know what's going on in their lives? How can you become “unskippable”?

Effective communication can build trust and understanding, but it takes thought, planning, and effort. 

The latest Healthy Minds Blog offers practical strategies to improve communication and build strong, lasting relationships:

• Ditch distractions and create a safe space where your child feels comfortable opening up.
• Listen actively and validate their feelings, even if you don't agree.
• Ask "how" questions instead of "what" questions to get them talking about their experiences.

For more tips and techniques, read the full article on the Healthy Minds Blog, which shares information related to youth mental health and wellness.

For support on talking with your teen about difficult subjects like fentanyl, discover how to Become Unskippable.

Eating Disorder Parent Information

The Code of Virginia, 22.1-273.2 requires schools provide, on an annual basis, parents/guardians educational information regarding eating disorders for students in grades five through twelve.

According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA 2023), Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. In the United States, 28.8 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives. There is no single cause of an eating disorder. Rather, it is a complex combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that converge and set off an individual’s predisposed genetic vulnerability.

In collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department, FCPS has developed a web page with detailed information and resources to be provided to parents and guardians of Fairfax County Public Schools. This information may be found at Eating Disorders. 

🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community From the Flu

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey

All FCPS families and middle and high school students have received an invitation to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available through Monday, February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

Please see the PDF version of Health Flyer: HealthFlyerforParents.pdf

Please see the PDF version of Fairfax County Info Flyer:We Are Here For You_English.pdf

2025 Youth Summer Basketball Camp

The camp will be at Annandale HS, July 21-25 (9am-3pm).  The camp is open to boys and girls entering 3rd through 9th grade next school year. Registration fee is $225 this year! Email the Coach McAvory or Coach Harrison for questions. 

🚀 Prepare for a Summer of Learning and Fun

Registration will be available soon for summer camps offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students. Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA) camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration begins for these programs on Monday, March 10, and ends Friday, June 6.

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore activities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Watch this video about CTE camps.

E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. 

For more information, see the Summer Learning page.

🍲 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.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra learning resources. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

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

• Summer Camps and Learning Opportunities
• Supporting Academic Growth 
• Preparing for Tough Conversations With Your Child

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

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates:

02/26             Quarter 3 Interim Reports Sent Home
02/28             Parent Coffee (9:00-10:00am, Cafeteria)
                      Topic: Medical Care for Children Partnership (MCCP) Services
03/03             Family Food Market (3:45-4:30pm, Cafeteria)
03/03-03/07   Read Across America Week
03/06             Gr. 1 Field Trip to Green Spring Garden
                      (McCall, Demery-Debrow, and Prasser)
03/07             Gr. 1 Field Trip to Green Spring Garden (Aldhobhani & Park)
03/10             3-Hour Early Release -Dismissal time 12:20pm
03/13             Family Literacy Night (5:30-7:00pm, Cafeteria & Gym)
03/14             Parent Coffee (9:00-10:00am, Cafeteria)
                      Topic: Supporting Health and Behavioral Development at Home
03/19             Gr. 5 Field Trip to Hidden Oaks Nature Center   
                      (Abourakty & Rigby)
03/20             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)
03/26             Spring Pictures & 5th grade Panoramic
                      Gr. 5 Field Trip to Hidden Oaks Nature Center
                      (O’Neal & Garvin)
04/01             Kindergarten Orientation (2:00-3:00pm, Gym)
04/24             Gr. 4 Field Trip to Kennedy Center

We are always proud of our students who consistently show their Cougar Pride by demonstrating respectful, responsible, and safe behaviors.

After School Academy (ASA) is off and running! Taught by our own dedicated teachers and led by ASA Coordinator Jennifer Boyle. The program focuses on closing achievement gaps in math, reading, and science. We’re also excited to welcome Annandale High School students to support learning in the classrooms!

Happy St. Valentine’s Day!

5th Early Release Monday - March 10, 2025

Our next 3-hour early release is coming up on Monday, 3/10.  Please let us know if your child will be going home at 12:20pm or will need supervision until 3:20 pm via completing https://forms.gle/BECSp8PjNDhTikEV9. If we do not receive a response from parents, we are required to keep your student until 3:20pm.  Please let us know so we can ensure your child gets home safely on Monday. 

Upcoming Student Experience Survey at Annandale Terrace Elementary School

Our school will participate in the FCPS Student Experience Survey. This survey will gather important feedback from students about their school experiences to help FCPS make meaningful improvements.

All students in grades 3-6, except those who have opted out, will receive a link to the survey in their FCPS email on February 24. We will administer the survey during the school day between Monday, February 24, and Friday, March 7. Any student may take the survey at home, if they are unable to take the survey during the school day. You will receive a communication with details on how to preview the survey and opt your child out, if you choose. 

We believe it's important to hear from our students about what we're doing well and where we can improve. This work also aligns with the five equity commitments in FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which focus on amplifying student voice and experiences as we work toward meeting plan goals.

Learn More About How Your Child Feels at School

The Spring Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students in grades 3-5 during the week of February 24, 2025. Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. More information is available about the SEL Screener by accessing this link: https://www.fcps.edu/student-tests-and-assessments/student-assessment-details/social-emotional-screener  

If you have any questions please reach out to our SEL Screener Leads, Emma Day or Nicole Scher, at [email protected] or [email protected].

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28, 2025

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has issued a new, first-time waiver allowing students fasting during the school day from February 28 to March 28, 2025, to request take-home breakfast and lunch meal kits. The Office of Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) will provide meal kits reflecting the school menu. Meals will be kept cold and must be heated at home. Students may claim one breakfast and one lunch kit per day. If a student purchases breakfast or lunch at school, they cannot pick up a kit that day. Meal kits must be picked up by students at the end of the school day—adults cannot collect them. Parents or guardians must submit a weekly request form via the FCPS FNS website by the deadlines:

• February 24, 2025, for February 28 and the week of March 3, 2025
• March 3, 2025, for the week of March 10, 2025
• March 10, 2025, for the week of March 17, 2025
• March 17, 2025, for the week of March 24, 2025

Forms must be submitted on time to receive meal kits for the following week.

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

📐 Breaking Down the Budget: Supporting Academic Growth and Algebra by Eighth Grade

The FCPS Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget invests in academic growth and excellence for each and every student, which is one of the priorities of the FCPS Strategic Plan. 

Since the 2023-24 school year, FCPS has seen a 9.5% increase in eighth graders taking Algebra I or more advanced math and a 6.8% increase in fifth graders in advanced math.

Studies show that students who complete algebra in middle school have more opportunities to take advanced math and science courses in high school. This can open up new academic paths for students! Watch a video that shows why eighth grade algebra matters. 

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget.

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

🐻 It’s Kindergarten Registration Time!

Attending kindergarten provides children with an opportunity to learn and practice the essential social, emotional, problem-solving, and self-regulation skills they will use throughout their lives. Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, between January and April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

Families should prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms on the FCPS kindergarten registration webpage. FCPS offers support and resources for all families to help with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For support in other languages, visit the kindergarten registration webpage.

🏗️ FCPS’ Construction Projects Offer Community-Wide Benefits

The Fairfax County School Board approved the annual update to FCPS’ FY 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) at their regular board meeting last week. A CIP is a working budget document that shows the timing and costs of improvement to school buildings, such as renovations, additions, and new schools. Learn more about planned improvements. Fairfax County Public Schools’ updated plans for new school construction, capacity enhancements, and renovations are outlined in the CIP. Projects include constructing two new elementary schools; renovations at 18 elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools; and relocation of modular buildings.

🏅 Advisory Committee for Students With Disabilities Seeks Nominations for First-Class Awards

First-Class Awards are presented each year to individuals who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the 2025 First-Class Awards. This is a great opportunity for the community to recognize and celebrate the inclusion efforts of educators, administrators, and students who demonstrate the inclusion of students with disabilities in all facets of education. 

Nominees should model excellence in their role relative to special education, have a positive impact that benefits disabled and non-disabled students alike, and be committed to creating an inclusive environment and mindset.

Nominate an administrator, staff member, student, or community partner who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools. Nominations close Wednesday, February 19.

🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community From the Flu

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.

Office of the Ombuds: At Your Service!

Ombuds staff engage with FCPS employees, families, and students to offer resources and improve the experience of each and every member of the FCPS community. They work as an independent confidential resource to help get answers to questions, resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.  

Ombuds office staff members are available to help resolve disagreements between parents/caregivers and schools. They do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.

Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints to share with the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected], or visit their webpage, where you may Submit a Question.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey

All FCPS families and middle and high school students have received an invitation to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available through Monday, February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

Please see the PDF version of Health Flyer: HealthFlyerforParents.pdf

Please see the PDF version of Fairfax County Info Flyer:We Are Here For You_English.pdf

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

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. 

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

🍲 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.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra learning resources. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

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

• Middle School Start Times
• New Lunch Items
• Talking to Teens About Tough Topics

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

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates:

02/17             School Holiday-George Washington’s Birthday
                      (President’s Day)-No School
02/20             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)
02/21             ATES Dance Night (6:00-8:00pm, AHS)
02/26             Quarter 3 Interim Reports Sent Home
02/28             Parent Coffee (9:00-10:00am, Cafeteria)
                      Topic: Medical Care for Children Partnership (MCCP) Services
03/03             Family Food Market (3:45-4:30pm, Cafeteria)
03/03-03/07   Read Across America Week
03/10             3-Hour Early Release -Dismissal time 12:20pm
03/13             Family Literacy Night (5:30-7:00pm, Cafeteria & Gym)
03/14             Parent Coffee (9:00-10:00am, Cafeteria)
                      Topic: Supporting Health and Behavioral Development at Home
03/20             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)
04/01             Kindergarten Orientation (2:00-3:00pm, Gym)

At Annandale Terrace Elementary, the Equity Committee's "Paws Before You Speak" campaign is fostering a more inclusive and welcoming environment. Through engaging morning meeting lessons and activities, students are learning the importance of pausing and thinking before speaking, promoting kindness and preventing hurtful words. Each day, classrooms celebrate their commitment to kindness by adding a link to their growing paper chain, visually demonstrating that only kind words were spoken in their classrooms. This campaign emphasizes belonging and inclusion, empowering students to create a positive and respectful school community.

This week, we had the pleasure of welcoming our Region Superintendent Dr. Boyd to our 4th grade classrooms. Dr. Boyd observed engaging lessons on fraction and decimal equivalencies, noting the impressive anchor charts supporting student learning, the frequent opportunities for student responses, and the overall dynamic learning environment. We were thrilled to share the hard work and dedication of our teachers and students with Dr. Boyd.

On Friday, February 7, 2025, was the 100th day of school! Look at how our students and teachers celebrated this exciting day.

ATES Student Parent Lunch_02/20/25

The Family Engagement Committee is sponsoring the Student-Parent Lunch Day on Thursday, February 20, 2025. Parents are invited to have lunch with their student during their lunch time. This event is part of increasing family engagement at ATES and providing parents an opportunity to come to the school. The price for lunch is $5.00 for all guests (Free of charge for all students in Annandale Terrace). Please complete this survey (https://forms.gle/yCsia7x4LAqwmfCa7) if you are planning to attend. Thank you!

Upcoming Student Experience Survey at Annandale Terrace Elementary School

Our school will participate in the FCPS Student Experience Survey. This survey will gather important feedback from students about their school experiences to help FCPS make meaningful improvements.

All students in grades 3-6, except those who have opted out, will receive a link to the survey in their FCPS email on February 24. We will administer the survey during the school day between Monday, February 24, and Friday, March 7. Any student may take the survey at home, if they are unable to take the survey during the school day. You will receive a communication with details on how to preview the survey and opt your child out, if you choose. 

We believe it's important to hear from our students about what we're doing well and where we can improve. This work also aligns with the five equity commitments in FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which focus on amplifying student voice and experiences as we work toward meeting plan goals.

5th Early Release Monday - March 10, 2025

Our next 3-hour early release is coming up on Monday, 3/10.  Please let us know if your child will be going home at 12:20pm or will need supervision until 3:20 pm via completing https://forms.gle/BECSp8PjNDhTikEV9. If we do not receive a response from parents, we are required to keep your student until 3:20pm.  Please let us know so we can ensure your child gets home safely on Monday. 

Learn More About How Your Child Feels at School

The Spring Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students in grades 3-5 during the week of February 24, 2025. Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. More information is available about the SEL Screener by accessing this link: https://www.fcps.edu/student-tests-and-assessments/student-assessment-details/social-emotional-screener  

If you have any questions please reach out to our SEL Screener Leads, Emma Day or Nicole Scher, at [email protected] or [email protected].

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28

Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student.To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

Breaking Down the Budget: Investing in Our Classrooms

Did you know that more than 85% of FCPS’ budget stays in our classrooms? Currently, 92.5% of FCPS staff are school-based, more than neighboring school districts. We are in the middle of FCPS’ annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback. Learn more about the proposed FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget and see the budget timeline.

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

🐻 It’s Kindergarten Registration Time!

Attending kindergarten provides children with an opportunity to learn and practice the essential social, emotional, problem-solving, and self-regulation skills they will use throughout their lives. Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, between January and April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

Families should prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms on the FCPS kindergarten registration webpage. FCPS offers support and resources for all families to help with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For support in other languages, visit the kindergarten registration webpage.

🏗️ FCPS’ Construction Projects Offer Community-Wide Benefits

The Fairfax County School Board approved the annual update to FCPS’ FY 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) at their regular board meeting last week. A CIP is a working budget document that shows the timing and costs of improvement to school buildings, such as renovations, additions, and new schools. Learn more about planned improvements. Fairfax County Public Schools’ updated plans for new school construction, capacity enhancements, and renovations are outlined in the CIP. Projects include constructing two new elementary schools; renovations at 18 elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools; and relocation of modular buildings.

🏅 Advisory Committee for Students With Disabilities Seeks Nominations for First-Class Awards

First-Class Awards are presented each year to individuals who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the 2025 First-Class Awards. This is a great opportunity for the community to recognize and celebrate the inclusion efforts of educators, administrators, and students who demonstrate the inclusion of students with disabilities in all facets of education. 

Nominees should model excellence in their role relative to special education, have a positive impact that benefits disabled and non-disabled students alike, and be committed to creating an inclusive environment and mindset.

Nominate an administrator, staff member, student, or community partner who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools. Nominations close Wednesday, February 19.

Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration (Note: Date Change)

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Carter G. Woodson High School.   

The event begins with a light reception followed by a formal program, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community. 

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

Students Invited to Share Their Voices at the 2025 Family Summit

The 2025 FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, March 15, at South Lakes High School. Visit the Family Summit webpage for more information. 

At the event, FCPS students are invited to showcase projects and advocacy efforts around inclusivity in schools. This is a great resume-building opportunity, and students can earn service hours as well. Students may share their work in a share-fair environment using posters, essays, videos, songs, or art. They will interact with attendees through conversations about their work, ideas, and efforts to foster inclusivity in school communities. 

Students must use this Google Form to participate by Monday, February 17. A list of possible projects is also on the form. More information will be provided after the student’s submission is received. Please contact Manuel Gomez Portillo with any questions. 

✨ Centering student voice is part of FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered.

🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community From the Flu

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.

Office of the Ombuds: At Your Service!

Ombuds staff engage with FCPS employees, families, and students to offer resources and improve the experience of each and every member of the FCPS community. They work as an independent confidential resource to help get answers to questions, resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.  

Ombuds office staff members are available to help resolve disagreements between parents/caregivers and schools. They do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.

Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints to share with the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected], or visit their webpage, where you may Submit a Question.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey

All FCPS families and middle and high school students have received an invitation to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available through Monday, February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

Please see the PDF version of Health Flyer: HealthFlyerforParents.pdf

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

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. 

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

🍲 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.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Winter Baseball Camps

Camp will be held inside the Annandale High School gyms for players in K through 8th grade on the below Sundays in January/February. Camps will be conducted by the Atoms coaching staff and players.

Each session is from 9:30am to 11:00 am. 

1. Throwing and Defense (1/12)
2. Throwing and Defense (1/19)
3. Hitting (1/26)
4. Hitting (2/9)
5. Hitting (2/16)

More Information/Register Here: Annandale Baseball Winter Camp Registration

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

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

• Flu Prevention
• Students Spread Joy
• Investing in our Classrooms

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

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates:

02/10             3-Hour Early Release -Dismissal time 12:20pm
02/17             School Holiday-George Washington’s Birthday
                      (President’s Day)-No School
02/20             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)
02/21             ATES Dance Night (6:00-8:00pm, AHS)
02/26             Quarter 3 Interim Reports Sent Home
03/03             Family Food Market (3:45-4:30pm, Cafeteria)

Last Wednesday, at the Third Annual FCPS School Communicators Conference and Awards, Annandale Terrace Elementary School was recognized for the best elementary school website in FCPS! A huge thank you to Ms. Ashley Ireland, our amazing SBTS, for all the work she does to ensure our website if the best of the best!

Annandale Terrace Website Recognized at FCPS' 2024 School Communicators Conference | Annandale Terrace Elementary School

The Annandale High School theater came to perform to our Kindergarten, First Grade, and Second Grade students last Thursday. They did an amazing job performing three storybooks. Our students absolutely loved it! Thank you, Essel Linton and Jamiah Harrison, for your support in making this happen!

Our 2nd quarter Paw Praise winners were treated to an amazing race between our beloved Cougar and a team of hilarious inflatable characters (thank you to Ms. Jacobson, Ms. Monaghan, Ms. A. Hibdon, Ms. Scher, Mr. Dull, Ms. Pezzuti, Ms. Larson, and Mr. Martir)! Lots of cheers filled the air as the racers dashed toward the finish line—but in true Cougar fashion, our school mascot came out on top, proudly demonstrating what it means to be Respectful, Responsible, and Safe! After the big win, the racers took a well-earned victory lap through the hallways, spreading joy and high-fives to all! What an amazing way to celebrate positive behavior!

Last Thursday, we had an incredible night of family fun at Bingo Night! Lots of excitement filled the room as students and their families gathered for an evening of friendly competition. With every number called (a huge shout out to Rashid in 5th grade for being the caller for the evening), the anticipation grew, and lucky winners took home some fantastic prizes! Thank you to everyone who joined in the fun!

4th Early Release Monday - February 10, 2025

Our next 3-hour early release is coming up on Monday, 2/10.  Please let us know if your child will be going home at 12:20pm or will need supervision until 3:20 pm via completing https://forms.gle/Djxn6urLajkMxH4z9. If we do not receive a response from parents, we are required to keep your student until 3:20pm.  Please let us know so we can ensure your child gets home safely on Monday. 

Upcoming Student Experience Survey at Annandale Terrace Elementary School

Our school will participate in the FCPS Student Experience Survey. This survey will gather important feedback from students about their school experiences to help FCPS make meaningful improvements.

All students in grades 3-6, except those who have opted out, will receive a link to the survey in their FCPS email on February 24. We will administer the survey during the school day between Monday, February 24, and Friday, March 7. Any student may take the survey at home, if they are unable to take the survey during the school day. You will receive a communication with details on how to preview the survey and opt your child out, if you choose. 

We believe it's important to hear from our students about what we're doing well and where we can improve. This work also aligns with the five equity commitments in FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which focus on amplifying student voice and experiences as we work toward meeting plan goals.

SEL Screener

The Spring Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students in grades 3-5 during the week of February 24, 2025. Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. More information is available about the SEL Screener by accessing this link: https://www.fcps.edu/student-tests-and-assessments/student-assessment-details/social-emotional-screener  

If you have any questions please reach out to our SEL Screener Leads, Emma Day or Nicole Scher, at [email protected] or [email protected].

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

ATES Student Parent Lunch_02/20/25

The Family Engagement Committee is sponsoring the Student-Parent Lunch Day on Thursday, January 20, 2025. Parents are invited to have lunch with their student during their lunch time. This event is part of increasing family engagement at ATES and providing parents an opportunity to come to the school. The price for lunch is $5.00 for all guests (Free of charge for all students in Annandale Terrace). Please complete this survey (https://forms.gle/yCsia7x4LAqwmfCa7) if you are planning to attend. Thank you!

FCPS Proposed Budget Progress

The Fairfax County School Board discussed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget at their work session on February 4. They discussed details regarding student enrollment and investments in students requiring additional support, market comparison data for surrounding school divisions, and an update on progress toward achieving the Baldrige Award for Performance Excellence. Baldrige is a framework used to assess and improve organizational performance across various sectors, including education. 

The School Board also held a public hearing on the FY 2026 Proposed Budget on Tuesday, February 4, where they invited the community to share their feedback on the budget.

On Tuesday, February 18, the Fairfax County executive will present the county’s Advertised Budget, and the Fairfax County School Board will hold a work session on the FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget. View FCPS’ Budget Development Calendar.

Breaking Down the Budget

More than 85% of the budget is dedicated to instruction and reflects the needs of our community’s young people in response to the changing world around us. Budget priorities include providing competitive compensation for all employees, including a 7% salary increase for all staff. The majority of the budget increase is dedicated to that proposed 7% pay increase.  

Our families want their children in high-quality schools with the best teachers who provide rigorous academic experiences. We must provide competitive compensation to attract and retain our outstanding educators, administrators, and other school-based and operational staff dedicated to the success of our students. 

The proposed 7% salary increase would likely move FCPS to the highest starting salary for teachers with a master's degree among our neighboring counties and greatly improve our recruitment efforts amidst an ongoing teacher shortage. Visit the Budget webpage for more information.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Countywide lottery registration for the Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program for first graders in the 2025-26 school year is open through Thursday, February 13, at 4 p.m. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program through Thursday, March 6, at 4 p.m.  

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Interested parents/caregivers may attend an informational meeting at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more details on the DLI Program webpage.

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

🧸 Kindergarten Registration: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3…

There’s an easy five-step process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:

1. Determine eligibility. 
2. Identify your local school. 
3. Gather documents. 
4. Fill out forms. 
5. Schedule an appointment.

After the appointment at the school (the student and one guardian must be present), the student will be ready for Kindergarten Orientation scheduled on April 1st from 2:00-3:00pm. Read more about the registration process. For additional information, please contact Mr. Jose Vega @  [email protected], our school registrar.

 

💻 Try Online Registration

Online registration for the 2025-26 school year is open. Parents/caregivers may register their children online for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process. 

When registering, parents/caregivers will need to create or log in to an existing SIS ParentVUE account. 

🏅 Advisory Committee for Students With Disabilities Seeks Nominations for First-Class Awards

First-Class Awards are presented each year to individuals who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the 2025 First-Class Awards. This is a great opportunity for the community to recognize and celebrate the inclusion efforts of educators, administrators, and students who demonstrate the inclusion of students with disabilities in all facets of education. 

Nominees should model excellence in their role relative to special education, have a positive impact that benefits disabled and non-disabled students alike, and be committed to creating an inclusive environment and mindset.

Nominate an administrator, staff member, student, or community partner who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools. Nominations close Wednesday, February 19.

Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration (Note: Date Change)

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Carter G. Woodson High School.   

The event begins with a light reception followed by a formal program, From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future. The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community. 

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

Students Invited to Share Their Voices at the 2025 Family Summit

The 2025 FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, March 15, at South Lakes High School. Visit the Family Summit webpage for more information. 

At the event, FCPS students are invited to showcase projects and advocacy efforts around inclusivity in schools. This is a great resume-building opportunity, and students can earn service hours as well. Students may share their work in a share-fair environment using posters, essays, videos, songs, or art. They will interact with attendees through conversations about their work, ideas, and efforts to foster inclusivity in school communities. 

Students must use this Google Form to participate by Monday, February 17. A list of possible projects is also on the form. More information will be provided after the student’s submission is received. Please contact Manuel Gomez Portillo with any questions. 

✨ Centering student voice is part of FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered.

Office of the Ombuds: At Your Service!

Ombuds staff engage with FCPS employees, families, and students to offer resources and improve the experience of each and every member of the FCPS community. They work as an independent confidential resource to help get answers to questions, resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.  

Ombuds office staff members are available to help resolve disagreements between parents/caregivers and schools. They do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.

Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints to share with the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected], or visit their webpage, where you may Submit a Question.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey

All FCPS families and middle and high school students have received an invitation to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available through Monday, February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

Please see the PDF version of Health Flyer: HealthFlyerforParents.pdf

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

📍 Virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings

If you have not been able to attend a Community Boundary Review meeting yet, it’s not too late! The following virtual meetings will have the same format and information available as the previous in-person meetings:

• Monday, February 10, 6:30-8 p.m.  

Click one of the dates above to register and receive your unique Zoom link. Please note that each virtual meeting will be capped at 400 participants to help provide a meaningful experience for all. Language interpretation will be available. Learn about FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

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. 

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

🍲 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.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Winter Baseball Camps

Camp will be held inside the Annandale High School gyms for players in K through 8th grade on the below Sundays in January/February. Camps will be conducted by the Atoms coaching staff and players.

Each session is from 9:30am to 11:00 am. 

1. Throwing and Defense (1/12)
2. Throwing and Defense (1/19)
3. Hitting (1/26)
4. Hitting (2/9)
5. Hitting (2/16)

More Information/Register Here: Annandale Baseball Winter Camp Registration

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

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

• Proposed Budget Progress
• Apply for Dual Immersion and Magnet Lotteries
• Black History Month Event

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

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates:

02/03             Family Food Market (3:45-5:00pm, Cafeteria)
02/05             Report Cards Go Home
02/07             Taco Rock Fundraising Night (3:30pm-10:00pm)
                      (Address: 6550 Little River Turnpike Space 50, Alexandria, VA )
02/10             3-Hour Early Release -Dismissal time 12:20pm
02/17             School Holiday-George Washington’s Birthday
                      (President’s Day)-No School
02/20             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)
02/21             ATES Dance Night (6:00-8:00pm, AHS)
02/26             Quarter 3 Interim Reports Sent Home

As always, we are so proud of our students who are recognized for showing their Cougar Pride by being respectful, responsible, and safe. Way to go!

Our very own, Ms. Pacilio-Lee was featured in FCPS social media! She was quoted: “I wanted to join the teaching profession because I love working with children. I hope to change lives and inspire the next generation of learners. I am a product of the county. Having attended elementary, middle, and high school in Springfield. I feel very fortunate to have experienced all the things FCPS has to offer to its students. FCPS has been the only option for me as an educator!” We are so lucky to have Ms. Pacilio-Less as an amazing Kindergarten teacher at Annandale Terrace!

Attendance is important! Every day during dismissal, we will post the percent of students who came to school on our marquee. Last Thursday, we had 90% of our students in school. This means that approximately 67 students were absent from school. Please help us increase our attendance to 100%!

Our friends from Poe Middle School music department came to visit our 5th grade students to talk about their wonderful program.

Our amazing mentoring program spearheaded by Ms. Boyle, our school counselor, had a wonderful event last Thursday. During this event, the INOVA Healthy Plate Club hosted a senses activity and smoothie making class to promote healthy meals at home as one of the Belonging Project school-based bonding events. Our students and their mentors had so much fun together as they continue to establish relationships and encourage attendance every day!

What is WIDA ACCESS for ELLs?

ACCESS for ELLs (English Language Learners) is an English language proficiency test that measures students’ academic English language skills. Testing helps teachers understand whether students have the language skills they need to fully participate in the classroom. Your child’s teachers use ACCESS for ELLs test scores as they decide how best to teach your child.

Your child does not need to study for the ACCESS for ELLs. The test is an opportunity for students to demonstrate all the ways they understand and can communicate in English. Prepare for test day by making sure your child gets plenty of sleep and eats breakfast. The testing schedule will be shared in a newsletter soon. After testing, scores will be sent home to families. If your child is participating in the ACCESS for ELLs assessment, you will or have already received a notification of testing letter. If you have any questions, please reach out to school testing coordinators, Nicole Scher & Ashley Ireland at [email protected] or [email protected].

4th Early Release Monday - February 10, 2025

Our next 3-hour early release is coming up on Monday, 2/10.  Please let us know if your child will be going home at 12:20pm or will need supervision until 3:20 pm via completing https://forms.gle/Djxn6urLajkMxH4z9. If we do not receive a response from parents, we are required to keep your student until 3:20pm.  Please let us know so we can ensure your child gets home safely on Monday. 

Proposed Budget Presented to School Board

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid presented the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget at the School Board meeting on Thursday, January 23. Watch a video of the presentation. 

As Dr. Reid noted in her January 24 letter to families, “The budget is fiscally responsible and invests in excellence — not just for FCPS, but for all of us in Fairfax County who want a strong community with successful young people, dedicated educators and support staff, and a thriving economy.” 

The proposed budget reflects the needs of and FCPS’ commitments to Fairfax County students, families, and community members. It focuses on competitive compensation, including a 7.0% salary increase for all staff to recruit and retain our outstanding educators, administrators, and other school-based and operational staff dedicated to the success of our students; investing in students who require additional support; and continuing multiyear initiatives such as inclusive preschool and safety and security updates.

Learn more on the Budget webpage.

🧸 Kindergarten Registration: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3…

There’s an easy five-step process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:

1. Determine eligibility. 
2. Identify your local school. 
3. Gather documents. 
4. Fill out forms. 
5. Schedule an appointment.

After the appointment at the school (the student and one guardian must be present), the student will be ready for Kindergarten Orientation scheduled on April 1st from 2:00-3:00pm. Read more about the registration process. For additional information, please contact Mr. Jose Vega @  [email protected], our school registrar.

 

💻 Try Online Registration

Online registration for the 2025-26 school year is open. Parents/caregivers may register their children online for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process. 

When registering, parents/caregivers will need to create or log in to an existing SIS ParentVUE account. 

🏅 Advisory Committee for Students With Disabilities Seeks Nominations for First-Class Awards

First-Class Awards are presented each year to individuals who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the 2025 First-Class Awards. This is a great opportunity for the community to recognize and celebrate the inclusion efforts of educators, administrators, and students who demonstrate the inclusion of students with disabilities in all facets of education. 

Nominees should model excellence in their role relative to special education, have a positive impact that benefits disabled and non-disabled students alike, and be committed to creating an inclusive environment and mindset.

Nominate an administrator, staff member, student, or community partner who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools. Nominations close Wednesday, February 19.

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. 

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVueLearn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

Office of the Ombuds: At Your Service!

Ombuds staff engage with FCPS employees, families, and students to offer resources and improve the experience of each and every member of the FCPS community. They work as an independent confidential resource to help get answers to questions, resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.  

Ombuds office staff members are available to help resolve disagreements between parents/caregivers and schools. They do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.

Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints to share with the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected], or visit their webpage, where you may Submit a Question.

🏗️ FCPS’ Proposed Construction Projects Offer Community-Wide Benefits

Fairfax County Public Schools updated plans for new school construction, capacity enhancements, and renovations are outlined in the proposed FY 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Projects include constructing two new elementary schools; renovations at 18 elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools; and relocation of modular buildings.

The proposed CIP was presented to the School Board at the January 14 work session. A public hearing was also held January 14. The School Board will take action on the proposed CIP at its Thursday, February 6, meeting.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey

All FCPS families and middle and high school students have received an invitation to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available through Monday, February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

What Families Can Do to Fight Drug Misuse

FCPS is committed to raising awareness about the opioid epidemic with our educators, parents/caregivers, and students. Together, we can help ensure our students thrive.

What can families do?

• Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse. More than 80% of young people ages 10-18 say their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink. 
• Show you care about your child’s health, wellness, and success. 
• Show you are a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs. Find helpful resources on the FCPS Opioid Awareness webpage. 
• Pay attention to your child and discourage risky behaviors. 
• Build your child’s skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use. Talk with your child about what they would do if faced with a decision about alcohol and drugs, such as texting a code word to a family member or practicing how they will say, “No thanks.”

Get more information on opioid awareness.

Wee Play Parent-Child Playgroups

Parents, caregivers, and their young children birth – 5 years old are invited to enroll in Annandale Terrace Elementary School's free, 90-minute weekly playgroups on Thursdays at 9:30 - 11:00 AM or 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM.  This program is for families with children who are not already enrolled in a preschool program or another early education program. The Wee Play program, led by a Fairfax County Public School facilitator, is based on the belief that parents and other caregivers are children’s first and most important teachers. In a welcoming and friendly space at Annandale Terrace Elementary, Wee Play provides the opportunity for caregivers and their children to learn together and to develop the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.  

Activities include exploring toys and materials, singing songs, hearing stories, playing games, and parent discussions.  

Join us beginning Thursday, January 16 and every Thursday through the end of May.  Enrollment is required. Registration forms are available in the school office and should be returned to ATES Main Office.

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

📍 Virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings

If you have not been able to attend a Community Boundary Review meeting yet, it’s not too late! The following virtual meetings will have the same format and information available as the previous in-person meetings:

• Monday, February 10, 6:30-8 p.m.  

Click one of the dates above to register and receive your unique Zoom link. Please note that each virtual meeting will be capped at 400 participants to help provide a meaningful experience for all. Language interpretation will be available. Learn about FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

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. 

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

🍲 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.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Winter Baseball Camps

Camp will be held inside the Annandale High School gyms for players in K through 8th grade on the below Sundays in January/February. Camps will be conducted by the Atoms coaching staff and players.

Each session is from 9:30am to 11:00 am. 

1. Throwing and Defense (1/12)
2. Throwing and Defense (1/19)
3. Hitting (1/26)
4. Hitting (2/9)
5. Hitting (2/16)

More Information/Register Here: Annandale Baseball Winter Camp Registration

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

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

• FY 2026 Proposed Budget
• Student-Driven Lunch Menus
• Inclusion Awards Nominations

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

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates:

01/28             End of 2nd Quarter
01/29             Teacher Workday (Student Holiday, No School)
01/30             Bingo Night (5:30pm – 7:30pm, Gym)
01/31             Parent Coffee (9:00am, Cafeteria)
                      Topic: General Health Information & School clinic
02/03             Family Food Market (3:45-5:00pm, Cafeteria)
02/05             Report Cards Go Home
02/07             Taco Rock Fundraising Night (3:30pm-10:00pm)
                      (Address: 6550 Little River Turnpike Space 50, Alexandria, VA )
02/20             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)

Selected students from 4th and 5th grade had the pleasure of participating in a taste testing event for FCPS’s Food and Nutrition Services. Dr. Reid will present on this to the school board on Thursday, January 23, 2025. If you would like to take a quick look of our students participating in the video, please click on the recording.

On Friday’s Parent Coffee, we had the pleasure of presenting about AVID. Megan Uccellini, AVID Coordinator from Poe MS, shared important information on the benefits of AVID and how students can select AVID as an elective in middle school. In addition, we shared how AVID looks like at ATES. All parents were impressed on the binders that were displayed and enjoyed falling along with the callbacks and celebrations.

Last Thursday, some of our fifth-grade students participated in the Annandale Pyramid Honors Chorus concert. They did an amazing job, and we are so proud of them! A huge thank you to Ms. Linton and Ms. Harrison for supporting our students in chorus.

Last Thursday, we welcomed our families to join their students for our monthly family lunch. It is always so wonderful to see our students spend quality time with their family member.

This past week, we had the pleasure of offering the AVMR training at Annandale Terrace to teachers from across the division. Our elementary resource math teacher, Ms. Niehoff, was one of the trainers. We also had some of our teachers participate in the training.

BINGO NIGHT AT ATES_01/30/25

On Thursday, January 30, 2025, we will be hosting our BINGO night at ATES! Doors will open at 5:30pm. Families will be invited to purchase pizza, snacks, and sodas in the cafeteria. We will begin the BINGO game at 6:15pm in the gym ($1.00 for two bingo cards) and run it through 7:30pm. Be sure to bring some cash. All the proceeds will be donated to ATES PTA. We hope to see you there!

What is WIDA ACCESS for ELLs?

ACCESS for ELLs (English Language Learners) is an English language proficiency test that measures students’ academic English language skills. Testing helps teachers understand whether students have the language skills they need to fully participate in the classroom. Your child’s teachers use ACCESS for ELLs test scores as they decide how best to teach your child.

Your child does not need to study for the ACCESS for ELLs. The test is an opportunity for students to demonstrate all the ways they understand and can communicate in English. Prepare for test day by making sure your child gets plenty of sleep and eats breakfast. The testing schedule will be shared in a newsletter soon. After testing, scores will be sent home to families. If your child is participating in the ACCESS for ELLs assessment, you will or have already received a notification of testing letter. If you have any questions, please reach out to school testing coordinators, Nicole Scher & Ashley Ireland at [email protected] or [email protected].

4th Early Release Monday - February 10, 2025

Our next 3-hour early release is coming up on Monday, 2/10.  Please let us know if your child will be going home at 12:20pm or will need supervision until 3:20 pm via completing https://forms.gle/Djxn6urLajkMxH4z9. If we do not receive a response from parents, we are required to keep your student until 3:20pm.  Please let us know so we can ensure your child gets home safely on Monday. 

📈 Virginia’s Student Assessment Summary for Families

This month, families of students who took any Standards of Learning (SOL) test between school years 2015-16 and 2023-24 will receive a Student Assessment Summary Report. The report shows a student’s state percentile ranking for each test. This allows families to see how their child ranked compared to all Virginia students who took the same test that year. 

Reports are available now in SIS ParentVUE Documents. They will be distributed by schools this month to students whose families do not have ParentVUE access. Learn how to access ParentVUE. 

The report is intended to help families reflect on how their child performed across all tested subjects over the years. Our schools and staff are committed to working with families to support every student to succeed at their highest potential. Learn more about student assessments in FCPS.

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. Schools monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

View Fairfax County’s Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Sherry Hamzehloo , at [email protected].You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. 

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVueLearn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

🏗️ FCPS’ Proposed Construction Projects Offer Community-Wide Benefits

Fairfax County Public Schools updated plans for new school construction, capacity enhancements, and renovations are outlined in the proposed FY 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Projects include constructing two new elementary schools; renovations at 18 elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools; and relocation of modular buildings.

The proposed CIP was presented to the School Board at the January 14 work session. A public hearing was also held January 14. The School Board will take action on the proposed CIP at its Thursday, February 6, meeting.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey

All FCPS families and middle and high school students have received an invitation to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available through Monday, February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

What Families Can Do to Fight Drug Misuse

FCPS is committed to raising awareness about the opioid epidemic with our educators, parents/caregivers, and students. Together, we can help ensure our students thrive.

What can families do?

• Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse. More than 80% of young people ages 10-18 say their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink. 
• Show you care about your child’s health, wellness, and success. 
• Show you are a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs. Find helpful resources on the FCPS Opioid Awareness webpage. 
• Pay attention to your child and discourage risky behaviors. 
• Build your child’s skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use. Talk with your child about what they would do if faced with a decision about alcohol and drugs, such as texting a code word to a family member or practicing how they will say, “No thanks.”

Get more information on opioid awareness.

Wee Play Parent-Child Playgroups

Parents, caregivers, and their young children birth – 5 years old are invited to enroll in Annandale Terrace Elementary School's free, 90-minute weekly playgroups on Thursdays at 9:30 - 11:00 AM or 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM.  This program is for families with children who are not already enrolled in a preschool program or another early education program. The Wee Play program, led by a Fairfax County Public School facilitator, is based on the belief that parents and other caregivers are children’s first and most important teachers. In a welcoming and friendly space at Annandale Terrace Elementary, Wee Play provides the opportunity for caregivers and their children to learn together and to develop the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.  

Activities include exploring toys and materials, singing songs, hearing stories, playing games, and parent discussions.  

Join us beginning Thursday, January 16 and every Thursday through the end of May.  Enrollment is required. Registration forms are available in the school office and should be returned to ATES Main Office.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting. Meetings are held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and DLI Program Registration webpage.

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

📍 Virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings

If you have not been able to attend a Community Boundary Review meeting yet, it’s not too late! The following virtual meetings will have the same format and information available as the previous in-person meetings:

 

• Saturday, January 25, 9:30-11 a.m. 
• Monday, January 27, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Tuesday, January 28, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Monday, February 10, 6:30-8 p.m. 

 

Click one of the dates above to register and receive your unique Zoom link. Please note that each virtual meeting will be capped at 400 participants to help provide a meaningful experience for all. Language interpretation will be available. Learn about FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

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. 

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

🍲 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.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Winter Baseball Camps

Camp will be held inside the Annandale High School gyms for players in K through 8th grade on the below Sundays in January/February. Camps will be conducted by the Atoms coaching staff and players.

Each session is from 9:30am to 11:00 am. 

1. Throwing and Defense (1/12)
2. Throwing and Defense (1/19)
3. Hitting (1/26)
4. Hitting (2/9)
5. Hitting (2/16)

More Information/Register Here: Annandale Baseball Winter Camp Registration

📚 Social Studies Basal Resources Review

FCPS is adopting Social Studies Basal Resources for the 2025-26 school year. Basal resources are the primary resources used to support instruction in a given subject. Public review of the instructional materials under consideration — which is part of the process for selecting new resources — is underway. Visit the Community Review webpage for more information on how to view the materials online or in person. 

All community feedback will be shared with School Board members before they vote to select materials in spring 2025. FCPS adopts basal resources by the process outlined in Regulation 3004.

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

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

• SOL Score Reports
• Upcoming Budget Presentation
• Science Fair Judges Needed

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

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates:

01/28             End of 2nd Quarter
01/29             Teacher Workday (Student Holiday, No School)
01/30             Bingo Night (5:30pm – 7:30pm, Gym)
01/31             Parent Coffee (9:00am, Cafeteria)
                      Topic: General Health Information & School clinic
02/03             Family Food Market (3:45-5:00pm, Cafeteria)
02/05             Report Cards Go Home
02/07             Taco Rock Fundraising Night (3:30pm-10:00pm)
                      (Address: 6550 Little River Turnpike Space 50, Alexandria, VA )
02/20             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)

Selected students from 4th and 5th grade had the pleasure of participating in a taste testing event for FCPS’s Food and Nutrition Services. Dr. Reid will present on this to the school board on Thursday, January 23, 2025. If you would like to take a quick look of our students participating in the video, please click on the recording.

On Friday’s Parent Coffee, we had the pleasure of presenting about AVID. Megan Uccellini, AVID Coordinator from Poe MS, shared important information on the benefits of AVID and how students can select AVID as an elective in middle school. In addition, we shared how AVID looks like at ATES. All parents were impressed on the binders that were displayed and enjoyed falling along with the callbacks and celebrations.

Last Thursday, some of our fifth-grade students participated in the Annandale Pyramid Honors Chorus concert. They did an amazing job, and we are so proud of them! A huge thank you to Ms. Linton and Ms. Harrison for supporting our students in chorus.

Last Thursday, we welcomed our families to join their students for our monthly family lunch. It is always so wonderful to see our students spend quality time with their family member.

This past week, we had the pleasure of offering the AVMR training at Annandale Terrace to teachers from across the division. Our elementary resource math teacher, Ms. Niehoff, was one of the trainers. We also had some of our teachers participate in the training.

BINGO NIGHT AT ATES_01/30/25

On Thursday, January 30, 2025, we will be hosting our BINGO night at ATES! Doors will open at 5:30pm. Families will be invited to purchase pizza, snacks, and sodas in the cafeteria. We will begin the BINGO game at 6:15pm in the gym ($1.00 for two bingo cards) and run it through 7:30pm. Be sure to bring some cash. All the proceeds will be donated to ATES PTA. We hope to see you there!

What is WIDA ACCESS for ELLs?

ACCESS for ELLs (English Language Learners) is an English language proficiency test that measures students’ academic English language skills. Testing helps teachers understand whether students have the language skills they need to fully participate in the classroom. Your child’s teachers use ACCESS for ELLs test scores as they decide how best to teach your child.

Your child does not need to study for the ACCESS for ELLs. The test is an opportunity for students to demonstrate all the ways they understand and can communicate in English. Prepare for test day by making sure your child gets plenty of sleep and eats breakfast. The testing schedule will be shared in a newsletter soon. After testing, scores will be sent home to families. If your child is participating in the ACCESS for ELLs assessment, you will or have already received a notification of testing letter. If you have any questions, please reach out to school testing coordinators, Nicole Scher & Ashley Ireland at [email protected] or [email protected].

4th Early Release Monday - February 10, 2025

Our next 3-hour early release is coming up on Monday, 2/10.  Please let us know if your child will be going home at 12:20pm or will need supervision until 3:20 pm via completing https://forms.gle/Djxn6urLajkMxH4z9. If we do not receive a response from parents, we are required to keep your student until 3:20pm.  Please let us know so we can ensure your child gets home safely on Monday. 

📈 Virginia’s Student Assessment Summary for Families

This month, families of students who took any Standards of Learning (SOL) test between school years 2015-16 and 2023-24 will receive a Student Assessment Summary Report. The report shows a student’s state percentile ranking for each test. This allows families to see how their child ranked compared to all Virginia students who took the same test that year. 

Reports are available now in SIS ParentVUE Documents. They will be distributed by schools this month to students whose families do not have ParentVUE access. Learn how to access ParentVUE. 

The report is intended to help families reflect on how their child performed across all tested subjects over the years. Our schools and staff are committed to working with families to support every student to succeed at their highest potential. Learn more about student assessments in FCPS.

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. Schools monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

View Fairfax County’s Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Sherry Hamzehloo , at [email protected].You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. 

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVueLearn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

🏗️ FCPS’ Proposed Construction Projects Offer Community-Wide Benefits

Fairfax County Public Schools updated plans for new school construction, capacity enhancements, and renovations are outlined in the proposed FY 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Projects include constructing two new elementary schools; renovations at 18 elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools; and relocation of modular buildings.

The proposed CIP was presented to the School Board at the January 14 work session. A public hearing was also held January 14. The School Board will take action on the proposed CIP at its Thursday, February 6, meeting.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey

All FCPS families and middle and high school students have received an invitation to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available through Monday, February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

What Families Can Do to Fight Drug Misuse

FCPS is committed to raising awareness about the opioid epidemic with our educators, parents/caregivers, and students. Together, we can help ensure our students thrive.

What can families do?

• Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse. More than 80% of young people ages 10-18 say their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink. 
• Show you care about your child’s health, wellness, and success. 
• Show you are a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs. Find helpful resources on the FCPS Opioid Awareness webpage. 
• Pay attention to your child and discourage risky behaviors. 
• Build your child’s skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use. Talk with your child about what they would do if faced with a decision about alcohol and drugs, such as texting a code word to a family member or practicing how they will say, “No thanks.”

Get more information on opioid awareness.

Wee Play Parent-Child Playgroups

Parents, caregivers, and their young children birth – 5 years old are invited to enroll in Annandale Terrace Elementary School's free, 90-minute weekly playgroups on Thursdays at 9:30 - 11:00 AM or 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM.  This program is for families with children who are not already enrolled in a preschool program or another early education program. The Wee Play program, led by a Fairfax County Public School facilitator, is based on the belief that parents and other caregivers are children’s first and most important teachers. In a welcoming and friendly space at Annandale Terrace Elementary, Wee Play provides the opportunity for caregivers and their children to learn together and to develop the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.  

Activities include exploring toys and materials, singing songs, hearing stories, playing games, and parent discussions.  

Join us beginning Thursday, January 16 and every Thursday through the end of May.  Enrollment is required. Registration forms are available in the school office and should be returned to ATES Main Office.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting. Meetings are held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and DLI Program Registration webpage.

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

📍 Virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings

If you have not been able to attend a Community Boundary Review meeting yet, it’s not too late! The following virtual meetings will have the same format and information available as the previous in-person meetings:

 

• Saturday, January 25, 9:30-11 a.m. 
• Monday, January 27, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Tuesday, January 28, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Monday, February 10, 6:30-8 p.m. 

 

Click one of the dates above to register and receive your unique Zoom link. Please note that each virtual meeting will be capped at 400 participants to help provide a meaningful experience for all. Language interpretation will be available. Learn about FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

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. 

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

🍲 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.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Winter Baseball Camps

Camp will be held inside the Annandale High School gyms for players in K through 8th grade on the below Sundays in January/February. Camps will be conducted by the Atoms coaching staff and players.

Each session is from 9:30am to 11:00 am. 

1. Throwing and Defense (1/12)
2. Throwing and Defense (1/19)
3. Hitting (1/26)
4. Hitting (2/9)
5. Hitting (2/16)

More Information/Register Here: Annandale Baseball Winter Camp Registration

📚 Social Studies Basal Resources Review

FCPS is adopting Social Studies Basal Resources for the 2025-26 school year. Basal resources are the primary resources used to support instruction in a given subject. Public review of the instructional materials under consideration — which is part of the process for selecting new resources — is underway. Visit the Community Review webpage for more information on how to view the materials online or in person. 

All community feedback will be shared with School Board members before they vote to select materials in spring 2025. FCPS adopts basal resources by the process outlined in Regulation 3004.

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

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

• SOL Score Reports
• Upcoming Budget Presentation
• Science Fair Judges Needed

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

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates:

01/20             Martin Luther King Jr’s Birthday/Inauguration Day
                      (Student Holiday, No School)
01/28             End of 2nd Quarter
01/29             Teacher Workday (Student Holiday, No School)
01/30             Bingo Night (5:30pm – 7:30pm, Gym)
01/31             Parent Coffee (9:00am, Cafeteria)
                      Topic: General Health Information & School clinic
02/03             Family Food Market (3:45-5:00pm, Cafeteria)
02/05             Report Cards Go Home
02/20             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)

Highlights of school events and pictures will return next week.

BINGO NIGHT AT ATES_01/30/25

On Thursday, January 30, 2025, we will be hosting our BINGO night at ATES! Doors will open at 5:30pm. Families will be invited to purchase pizza, snacks, and sodas in the cafeteria. We will begin the BINGO game at 6:15pm in the gym ($1.00 for two bingo cards) and run it through 7:30pm. Be sure to bring some cash. All the proceeds will be donated to ATES PTA. We hope to see you there!

What is WIDA ACCESS for ELLs?

ACCESS for ELLs (English Language Learners) is an English language proficiency test that measures students’ academic English language skills. Testing helps teachers understand whether students have the language skills they need to fully participate in the classroom. Your child’s teachers use ACCESS for ELLs test scores as they decide how best to teach your child.

Your child does not need to study for the ACCESS for ELLs. The test is an opportunity for students to demonstrate all the ways they understand and can communicate in English. Prepare for test day by making sure your child gets plenty of sleep and eats breakfast. The testing schedule will be shared in a newsletter soon. After testing, scores will be sent home to families. If your child is participating in the ACCESS for ELLs assessment, you will or have already received a notification of testing letter. If you have any questions, please reach out to school testing coordinators, Nicole Scher & Ashley Ireland at [email protected] or [email protected].

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. Schools monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

View Fairfax County’s Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Sherry Hamzehloo , at [email protected].You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. 

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVueLearn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey Coming Soon

All FCPS families and middle and high school students will be receiving an email invitation on Tuesday, January 21, to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available from January 21 to February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

Wee Play Parent-Child Playgroups

Parents, caregivers, and their young children birth – 5 years old are invited to enroll in Annandale Terrace Elementary School's free, 90-minute weekly playgroups on Thursdays at 9:30 - 11:00 AM or 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM.  This program is for families with children who are not already enrolled in a preschool program or another early education program. The Wee Play program, led by a Fairfax County Public School facilitator, is based on the belief that parents and other caregivers are children’s first and most important teachers. In a welcoming and friendly space at Annandale Terrace Elementary, Wee Play provides the opportunity for caregivers and their children to learn together and to develop the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.  

Activities include exploring toys and materials, singing songs, hearing stories, playing games, and parent discussions.  

Join us beginning Thursday, January 16 and every Thursday through the end of May.  Enrollment is required. Registration forms are available in the school office and should be returned to ATES Main Office.

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy

Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our 703-658-5600.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

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 among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting. Meetings are held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and DLI Program Registration webpage.

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Overcoming School Refusal and Resistance
• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• FCPS Math Week
• Supporting Your Child’s Executive Functioning Skills
• Depression in Teens
• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in a virtual meeting:

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 
• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

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. 

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

🍲 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.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students

Students with sensory disabilities require specialized services and support to access instruction that is typically presented visually and auditorily (by means of hearing). FCPS provides educational services to students who are deaf, hearing-impaired, or visually impaired. They are supported in various settings, including at their school or through itinerant specialists who travel to different schools to work with students, rather than being based in a single school. Learn more about Services for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and Services for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired.

Visit the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) website for Resources for Serving Students with Sensory Disabilities.

Winter Baseball Camps

Camp will be held inside the Annandale High School gyms for players in K through 8th grade on the below Sundays in January/February. Camps will be conducted by the Atoms coaching staff and players.

Each session is from 9:30am to 11:00 am. 

1. Throwing and Defense (1/12)
2. Throwing and Defense (1/19)
3. Hitting (1/26)
4. Hitting (2/9)
5. Hitting (2/16)

More Information/Register Here: Annandale Baseball Winter Camp Registration

📚 Social Studies Basal Resources Review

FCPS is adopting Social Studies Basal Resources for the 2025-26 school year. Basal resources are the primary resources used to support instruction in a given subject. Public review of the instructional materials under consideration — which is part of the process for selecting new resources — is underway. Visit the Community Review webpage for more information on how to view the materials online or in person. 

All community feedback will be shared with School Board members before they vote to select materials in spring 2025. FCPS adopts basal resources by the process outlined in Regulation 3004.

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

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. 

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates:

01/20             Martin Luther King Jr’s Birthday/Inauguration Day
                      (Student Holiday, No School)
01/28             End of 2nd Quarter
01/29             Teacher Workday (Student Holiday, No School)
01/30             Bingo Night (5:30pm – 7:30pm, Gym)
01/31             Parent Coffee (9:00am, Cafeteria)
                      Topic: General Health Information & School clinic
02/03             Family Food Market (3:45-5:00pm, Cafeteria)
02/05             Report Cards Go Home
02/20             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)

Highlights of school events and pictures will return next week.

BINGO NIGHT AT ATES_01/30/25

On Thursday, January 30, 2025, we will be hosting our BINGO night at ATES! Doors will open at 5:30pm. Families will be invited to purchase pizza, snacks, and sodas in the cafeteria. We will begin the BINGO game at 6:15pm in the gym ($1.00 for two bingo cards) and run it through 7:30pm. Be sure to bring some cash. All the proceeds will be donated to ATES PTA. We hope to see you there!

What is WIDA ACCESS for ELLs?

ACCESS for ELLs (English Language Learners) is an English language proficiency test that measures students’ academic English language skills. Testing helps teachers understand whether students have the language skills they need to fully participate in the classroom. Your child’s teachers use ACCESS for ELLs test scores as they decide how best to teach your child.

Your child does not need to study for the ACCESS for ELLs. The test is an opportunity for students to demonstrate all the ways they understand and can communicate in English. Prepare for test day by making sure your child gets plenty of sleep and eats breakfast. The testing schedule will be shared in a newsletter soon. After testing, scores will be sent home to families. If your child is participating in the ACCESS for ELLs assessment, you will or have already received a notification of testing letter. If you have any questions, please reach out to school testing coordinators, Nicole Scher & Ashley Ireland at [email protected] or [email protected].

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. Schools monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

View Fairfax County’s Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaison, Sherry Hamzehloo , at [email protected].You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. 

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVueLearn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey Coming Soon

All FCPS families and middle and high school students will be receiving an email invitation on Tuesday, January 21, to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available from January 21 to February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

Wee Play Parent-Child Playgroups

Parents, caregivers, and their young children birth – 5 years old are invited to enroll in Annandale Terrace Elementary School's free, 90-minute weekly playgroups on Thursdays at 9:30 - 11:00 AM or 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM.  This program is for families with children who are not already enrolled in a preschool program or another early education program. The Wee Play program, led by a Fairfax County Public School facilitator, is based on the belief that parents and other caregivers are children’s first and most important teachers. In a welcoming and friendly space at Annandale Terrace Elementary, Wee Play provides the opportunity for caregivers and their children to learn together and to develop the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.  

Activities include exploring toys and materials, singing songs, hearing stories, playing games, and parent discussions.  

Join us beginning Thursday, January 16 and every Thursday through the end of May.  Enrollment is required. Registration forms are available in the school office and should be returned to ATES Main Office.

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy

Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our 703-658-5600.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

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 among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting. Meetings are held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and DLI Program Registration webpage.

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Overcoming School Refusal and Resistance
• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• FCPS Math Week
• Supporting Your Child’s Executive Functioning Skills
• Depression in Teens
• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in a virtual meeting:

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 
• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

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. 

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

🍲 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.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students

Students with sensory disabilities require specialized services and support to access instruction that is typically presented visually and auditorily (by means of hearing). FCPS provides educational services to students who are deaf, hearing-impaired, or visually impaired. They are supported in various settings, including at their school or through itinerant specialists who travel to different schools to work with students, rather than being based in a single school. Learn more about Services for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and Services for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired.

Visit the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) website for Resources for Serving Students with Sensory Disabilities.

Winter Baseball Camps

Camp will be held inside the Annandale High School gyms for players in K through 8th grade on the below Sundays in January/February. Camps will be conducted by the Atoms coaching staff and players.

Each session is from 9:30am to 11:00 am. 

1. Throwing and Defense (1/12)
2. Throwing and Defense (1/19)
3. Hitting (1/26)
4. Hitting (2/9)
5. Hitting (2/16)

More Information/Register Here: Annandale Baseball Winter Camp Registration

📚 Social Studies Basal Resources Review

FCPS is adopting Social Studies Basal Resources for the 2025-26 school year. Basal resources are the primary resources used to support instruction in a given subject. Public review of the instructional materials under consideration — which is part of the process for selecting new resources — is underway. Visit the Community Review webpage for more information on how to view the materials online or in person. 

All community feedback will be shared with School Board members before they vote to select materials in spring 2025. FCPS adopts basal resources by the process outlined in Regulation 3004.

📚 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.

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

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. 

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates:

01/13             Family Food Market (3:45pm, Cafeteria- New Date)
01/16             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)
01/20             Martin Luther King Jr’s Birthday/Inauguration Day
                      (Student Holiday, No School)
01/22             Candid & Club Pictures
01/28             End of 2nd Quarter
01/29             Teacher Workday (Student Holiday, No School)
01/30             Bingo Night (5:30pm – 7:30pm, Gym)
01/31             Parent Coffee (9:00am, Cafeteria)
                      Topic: General Health Information & School clinic
02/03             Family Food Market (3:45-5:00pm, Cafeteria)
02/05             Report Cards Go Home
02/20             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)

The week before winter break, we were serenated each morning by our wonderful music team playing holiday music to lift our spirits for the day.

We are always so proud of our students who get a paw-sitive referral to the office. Here we have a few of our friends who know how to show their Cougar Pride by being respectful, responsible, and safe every day!

We were fortunate to be selected as taste testers for Fairfax County Public School’s Food and Nutrition services. Selected 4th and 5th grade students had an opportunity to taste three different types of meals and provide feedback. We are hoping to see some of these new items on our lunch menu this spring.

FCPS’s School Board recognized Annandale Terrace Elementary School with a proclamation for celebrating our 60th year anniversary this school year.

Our wonderful parents were invited to vote on their favorite holiday mural…and the winners are:
Ms. Dang – 1st Place
Ms. Rubin – 2nd Place
Ms. Roy and Ms. Monaghan – 3rd Place
Congratulations to all!

So many Gingerbread houses were built right before winter break. Look at how creative our students are.

Welcome our new Assistant Principal _Ms. Raynor

We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Candice Raynor as the new Assistant Principal at Annandale Terrace Elementary School! Ms. Raynor brings a wealth of experience in education, having served in various roles such as teacher, mentor, and administrative coordinator in Prince Williams County Public Schools. Her passion for fostering student achievement and equity shines through her dedication to supporting English Learners, implementing effective instructional strategies, and collaborating with staff to create inclusive learning environments.

Ms. Raynor holds a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision from the University of Virginia and has certifications in PreK-12 Administration and Supervision as well as PreK-6 Elementary Education. Most recently, she served as the Administrative Coordinator of Sustainability of Federal Programs in Prince William County Schools, where she worked closely with principals and instructional leaders to enhance English Learner programs and student success.

Her commitment to professional development, mentorship, and innovative leadership will undoubtedly enrich our school community. We are excited to embark on this journey with Ms. Raynor and look forward to her impactful contributions! Welcome to Annandale Terrace Elementary School where together, we are amazing!

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. 

ATES Student Parent Lunch_01/16/25

The Family Engagement Committee is sponsoring the Student-Parent Lunch Day on Thursday, January 16, 2025. Parents are invited to have lunch with their student during their lunch time. This event is part of increasing family engagement at ATES and providing parents an opportunity to come to the school. The price for lunch is $5.00 for all guests (Free of charge for all students in Annandale Terrace). Please complete this survey (https://forms.gle/rd2EVBYApJ9kQRCXA) if you are planning to attend. Thank you!

What is WIDA ACCESS for ELLs?

ACCESS for ELLs (English Language Learners) is an English language proficiency test that measures students’ academic English language skills. Testing helps teachers understand whether students have the language skills they need to fully participate in the classroom. Your child’s teachers use ACCESS for ELLs test scores as they decide how best to teach your child.

Your child does not need to study for the ACCESS for ELLs. The test is an opportunity for students to demonstrate all the ways they understand and can communicate in English. Prepare for test day by making sure your child gets plenty of sleep and eats breakfast. The testing schedule will be shared in a newsletter soon. After testing, scores will be sent home to families. If your child is participating in the ACCESS for ELLs assessment, you will or have already received a notification of testing letter. If you have any questions, please reach out to school testing coordinators, Nicole Scher & Ashley Ireland at [email protected] or [email protected].

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. 

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVueLearn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

Wee Play Parent-Child Playgroups

Parents, caregivers, and their young children birth – 5 years old are invited to enroll in Annandale Terrace Elementary School's free, 90-minute weekly playgroups on Thursdays at 9:30 - 11:00 AM or 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM.  This program is for families with children who are not already enrolled in a preschool program or another early education program. The Wee Play program, led by a Fairfax County Public School facilitator, is based on the belief that parents and other caregivers are children’s first and most important teachers. In a welcoming and friendly space at Annandale Terrace Elementary, Wee Play provides the opportunity for caregivers and their children to learn together and to develop the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.  

Activities include exploring toys and materials, singing songs, hearing stories, playing games, and parent discussions.  

Join us beginning Thursday, January 9 and every Thursday through the end of May.  Enrollment is required. Registration forms are available in the school office and should be returned to ATES Main Office.

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy

Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our 703-658-5600.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

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 among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting. Meetings are held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and DLI Program Registration webpage.

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Overcoming School Refusal and Resistance
• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• FCPS Math Week
• Supporting Your Child’s Executive Functioning Skills
• Depression in Teens
• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in a virtual meeting:

• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 
• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

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. 

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

🍲 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.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students

Students with sensory disabilities require specialized services and support to access instruction that is typically presented visually and auditorily (by means of hearing). FCPS provides educational services to students who are deaf, hearing-impaired, or visually impaired. They are supported in various settings, including at their school or through itinerant specialists who travel to different schools to work with students, rather than being based in a single school. Learn more about Services for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and Services for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired.

Visit the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) website for Resources for Serving Students with Sensory Disabilities.

Winter Baseball Camps

Camp will be held inside the Annandale High School gyms for players in K through 8th grade on the below Sundays in January/February. Camps will be conducted by the Atoms coaching staff and players.

Each session is from 9:30am to 11:00 am. 

1. Throwing and Defense (1/12)
2. Throwing and Defense (1/19)
3. Hitting (1/26)
4. Hitting (2/9)
5. Hitting (2/16)

More Information/Register Here: Annandale Baseball Winter Camp Registration

📚 Social Studies Basal Resources Review

FCPS is adopting Social Studies Basal Resources for the 2025-26 school year. Basal resources are the primary resources used to support instruction in a given subject. Public review of the instructional materials under consideration — which is part of the process for selecting new resources — is underway. Visit the Community Review webpage for more information on how to view the materials online or in person. 

All community feedback will be shared with School Board members before they vote to select materials in spring 2025. FCPS adopts basal resources by the process outlined in Regulation 3004.

📚 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.

Tutoring Resources for Families

Is your family looking for resources to help support your child’s academic success? FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of district employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to be hired as a tutor by parents. FRC maintains this list, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource.

✨ FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence, reminds us of our commitment to supporting each and every student and helping them meet or exceed high academic standards.

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

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

• National Merit Commended Scholars
• Celebrating the Best of 2024 in FCPS
• Cell Phones Off, Learning On

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

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates:

01/13             Family Food Market (3:45pm, Cafeteria- New Date)
01/16             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)
01/20             Martin Luther King Jr’s Birthday/Inauguration Day
                      (Student Holiday, No School)
01/22             Candid & Club Pictures
01/28             End of 2nd Quarter
01/29             Teacher Workday (Student Holiday, No School)
01/30             Bingo Night (5:30pm – 7:30pm, Gym)
01/31             Parent Coffee (9:00am, Cafeteria)
                      Topic: General Health Information & School clinic
02/03             Family Food Market (3:45-5:00pm, Cafeteria)
02/05             Report Cards Go Home
02/20             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)

The week before winter break, we were serenated each morning by our wonderful music team playing holiday music to lift our spirits for the day.

We are always so proud of our students who get a paw-sitive referral to the office. Here we have a few of our friends who know how to show their Cougar Pride by being respectful, responsible, and safe every day!

We were fortunate to be selected as taste testers for Fairfax County Public School’s Food and Nutrition services. Selected 4th and 5th grade students had an opportunity to taste three different types of meals and provide feedback. We are hoping to see some of these new items on our lunch menu this spring.

FCPS’s School Board recognized Annandale Terrace Elementary School with a proclamation for celebrating our 60th year anniversary this school year.

Our wonderful parents were invited to vote on their favorite holiday mural…and the winners are:
Ms. Dang – 1st Place
Ms. Rubin – 2nd Place
Ms. Roy and Ms. Monaghan – 3rd Place
Congratulations to all!

So many Gingerbread houses were built right before winter break. Look at how creative our students are.

Welcome our new Assistant Principal _Ms. Raynor

We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Candice Raynor as the new Assistant Principal at Annandale Terrace Elementary School! Ms. Raynor brings a wealth of experience in education, having served in various roles such as teacher, mentor, and administrative coordinator in Prince Williams County Public Schools. Her passion for fostering student achievement and equity shines through her dedication to supporting English Learners, implementing effective instructional strategies, and collaborating with staff to create inclusive learning environments.

Ms. Raynor holds a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision from the University of Virginia and has certifications in PreK-12 Administration and Supervision as well as PreK-6 Elementary Education. Most recently, she served as the Administrative Coordinator of Sustainability of Federal Programs in Prince William County Schools, where she worked closely with principals and instructional leaders to enhance English Learner programs and student success.

Her commitment to professional development, mentorship, and innovative leadership will undoubtedly enrich our school community. We are excited to embark on this journey with Ms. Raynor and look forward to her impactful contributions! Welcome to Annandale Terrace Elementary School where together, we are amazing!

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. 

ATES Student Parent Lunch_01/16/25

The Family Engagement Committee is sponsoring the Student-Parent Lunch Day on Thursday, January 16, 2025. Parents are invited to have lunch with their student during their lunch time. This event is part of increasing family engagement at ATES and providing parents an opportunity to come to the school. The price for lunch is $5.00 for all guests (Free of charge for all students in Annandale Terrace). Please complete this survey (https://forms.gle/rd2EVBYApJ9kQRCXA) if you are planning to attend. Thank you!

What is WIDA ACCESS for ELLs?

ACCESS for ELLs (English Language Learners) is an English language proficiency test that measures students’ academic English language skills. Testing helps teachers understand whether students have the language skills they need to fully participate in the classroom. Your child’s teachers use ACCESS for ELLs test scores as they decide how best to teach your child.

Your child does not need to study for the ACCESS for ELLs. The test is an opportunity for students to demonstrate all the ways they understand and can communicate in English. Prepare for test day by making sure your child gets plenty of sleep and eats breakfast. The testing schedule will be shared in a newsletter soon. After testing, scores will be sent home to families. If your child is participating in the ACCESS for ELLs assessment, you will or have already received a notification of testing letter. If you have any questions, please reach out to school testing coordinators, Nicole Scher & Ashley Ireland at [email protected] or [email protected].

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. 

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVueLearn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

Wee Play Parent-Child Playgroups

Parents, caregivers, and their young children birth – 5 years old are invited to enroll in Annandale Terrace Elementary School's free, 90-minute weekly playgroups on Thursdays at 9:30 - 11:00 AM or 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM.  This program is for families with children who are not already enrolled in a preschool program or another early education program. The Wee Play program, led by a Fairfax County Public School facilitator, is based on the belief that parents and other caregivers are children’s first and most important teachers. In a welcoming and friendly space at Annandale Terrace Elementary, Wee Play provides the opportunity for caregivers and their children to learn together and to develop the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.  

Activities include exploring toys and materials, singing songs, hearing stories, playing games, and parent discussions.  

Join us beginning Thursday, January 9 and every Thursday through the end of May.  Enrollment is required. Registration forms are available in the school office and should be returned to ATES Main Office.

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy

Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our 703-658-5600.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

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 among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting. Meetings are held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and DLI Program Registration webpage.

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Overcoming School Refusal and Resistance
• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• FCPS Math Week
• Supporting Your Child’s Executive Functioning Skills
• Depression in Teens
• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in a virtual meeting:

• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 
• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

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. 

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

🍲 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.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students

Students with sensory disabilities require specialized services and support to access instruction that is typically presented visually and auditorily (by means of hearing). FCPS provides educational services to students who are deaf, hearing-impaired, or visually impaired. They are supported in various settings, including at their school or through itinerant specialists who travel to different schools to work with students, rather than being based in a single school. Learn more about Services for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and Services for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired.

Visit the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) website for Resources for Serving Students with Sensory Disabilities.

Winter Baseball Camps

Camp will be held inside the Annandale High School gyms for players in K through 8th grade on the below Sundays in January/February. Camps will be conducted by the Atoms coaching staff and players.

Each session is from 9:30am to 11:00 am. 

1. Throwing and Defense (1/12)
2. Throwing and Defense (1/19)
3. Hitting (1/26)
4. Hitting (2/9)
5. Hitting (2/16)

More Information/Register Here: Annandale Baseball Winter Camp Registration

📚 Social Studies Basal Resources Review

FCPS is adopting Social Studies Basal Resources for the 2025-26 school year. Basal resources are the primary resources used to support instruction in a given subject. Public review of the instructional materials under consideration — which is part of the process for selecting new resources — is underway. Visit the Community Review webpage for more information on how to view the materials online or in person. 

All community feedback will be shared with School Board members before they vote to select materials in spring 2025. FCPS adopts basal resources by the process outlined in Regulation 3004.

📚 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.

Tutoring Resources for Families

Is your family looking for resources to help support your child’s academic success? FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of district employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to be hired as a tutor by parents. FRC maintains this list, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource.

✨ FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence, reminds us of our commitment to supporting each and every student and helping them meet or exceed high academic standards.

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

FCPS News

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

• National Merit Commended Scholars
• Celebrating the Best of 2024 in FCPS
• Cell Phones Off, Learning On

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

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates:

12/23-01/03   Winter Holiday-No School
01/06/25        School Resumes
                      Family Food Market (3:45pm, Cafeteria)
01/16             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)
01/22             Candid & Club Pictures
01/31             Parent Coffee (9:00am, Cafeteria)
                      Topic: General Health Information & School clinic

It is exciting to see how our hallways are being "decked" out with beautiful winter murals! Can’t wait until all the murals are up!

We have been celebrating the 12 Days of Holiday Cheer. Below is a picture of our third day of Holiday Cheer beginning our day with coffee and donuts. 😊

Our wonderful kindergarteners have been hard at work during their morning meetings! Last week, they explored an inspiring story about cultural identity and learned the importance of embracing and celebrating our differences.

Our 5th grade students had a Geologist guest visit their classrooms this past week. Ms. Scher’s sister is a Geologist, and she came in to talk to the students about her experiences as a geologist and even brought some rocks to show the students. What a great learning opportunity!

ATES Student Parent Lunch_01/16/25

The Family Engagement Committee is sponsoring the Student-Parent Lunch Day on Thursday, January 16, 2025. Parents are invited to have lunch with their student during their lunch time. This event is part of increasing family engagement at ATES and providing parents an opportunity to come to the school. The price for lunch is $5.00 for all guests (Free of charge for all students in Annandale Terrace). Please complete this survey (https://forms.gle/rd2EVBYApJ9kQRCXA) if you are planning to attend. Thank you!

Wee Play Parent-Child Playgroups

Parents, caregivers, and their young children birth – 5 years old are invited to enroll in Annandale Terrace Elementary School's free, 90-minute weekly playgroups on Thursdays at 9:30 - 11:00 AM or 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM.  This program is for families with children who are not already enrolled in a preschool program or another early education program. The Wee Play program, led by a Fairfax County Public School facilitator, is based on the belief that parents and other caregivers are children’s first and most important teachers. In a welcoming and friendly space at Annandale Terrace Elementary, Wee Play provides the opportunity for caregivers and their children to learn together and to develop the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.  

Activities include exploring toys and materials, singing songs, hearing stories, playing games, and parent discussions.  

Join us beginning Thursday, January 9 and every Thursday through the end of May.  Enrollment is required. Registration forms are available in the school office and should be returned to ATES Main Office.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

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 among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting. Meetings are held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and DLI Program Registration webpage.

🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Overcoming School Refusal and Resistance
• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• FCPS Math Week
• Supporting Your Child’s Executive Functioning Skills
• Depression in Teens
• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in a virtual meeting:

• Friday, January 10, 2025, 6-7:30 p.m. 

• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

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. 

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

🍲 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.

School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue!

FCPS encourages students to take advantage of fun learning opportunities during winter break and snow days. Consider these winter activities to blend education and play for your students during winter break or weather-related school closures.

Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students

Students with sensory disabilities require specialized services and support to access instruction that is typically presented visually and auditorily (by means of hearing). FCPS provides educational services to students who are deaf, hearing-impaired, or visually impaired. They are supported in various settings, including at their school or through itinerant specialists who travel to different schools to work with students, rather than being based in a single school. Learn more about Services for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and Services for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired.

Visit the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) website for Resources for Serving Students with Sensory Disabilities.

Winter Baseball Camps

Camp will be held inside the Annandale High School gyms for players in K through 8th grade on the below Sundays in January/February. Camps will be conducted by the Atoms coaching staff and players.

Each session is from 9:30am to 11:00 am. 

1. Throwing and Defense (1/12)
2. Throwing and Defense (1/19)
3. Hitting (1/26)
4. Hitting (2/9)
5. Hitting (2/16)

More Information/Register Here: Annandale Baseball Winter Camp Registration

Jan 2-3, 2025: Winter Olympics Camp

Camp will be held inside the gyms for players in K through 8th grade on the below Sundays in January/February. Camps will be conducted by the Atoms coaching staff and players.

Each session is from 9:30am to 11:00 am. 

1. Throwing and Defense (1/12)
2. Throwing and Defense (1/19)
3. Hitting (1/26)
4. Hitting (2/9)
5. Hitting (2/16)

More Information/Register Here: Annandale Baseball Winter Camp Registration

📚 Social Studies Basal Resources Review

FCPS is adopting Social Studies Basal Resources for the 2025-26 school year. Basal resources are the primary resources used to support instruction in a given subject. Public review of the instructional materials under consideration — which is part of the process for selecting new resources — is underway. Visit the Community Review webpage for more information on how to view the materials online or in person. 

All community feedback will be shared with School Board members before they vote to select materials in spring 2025. FCPS adopts basal resources by the process outlined in Regulation 3004.

📚 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.

Tutoring Resources for Families

Is your family looking for resources to help support your child’s academic success? FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of district employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to be hired as a tutor by parents. FRC maintains this list, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource.

FCPS also partners with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors' services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests.

✨ FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence, reminds us of our commitment to supporting each and every student and helping them meet or exceed high academic standards.

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

⛄ 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.

FCPS News

• In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
• Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration
• Be Among the First to Hear About Closings/Delays
• Fall 2024 Sports Champions

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

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
Web | Twitter

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

Upcoming Dates:

12/20             5th Grade Field Trip – Poe MS
                      Parent Coffee (9:00am, Cafeteria)
                      Topic: Holiday Celebration
12/23-01/03   Winter Holiday-No School
01/06/25        School Resumes
                      Family Food Market (3:45pm, Cafeteria)
01/16             Student Parent Lunch (Lunch Time, Cafeteria)
01/22             Candid & Club Pictures

Congratulations to these amazing educators. These staff members were nominated by their peers in the following categories and have been selected to represent Annandale Terrace Elementary School at the pyramid level. We wish them best of luck!

On Saturday, our amazing chorus had an opportunity to perform at the Eileen Garnett Civic Center winter festival. The chorus did an outstanding job! Thank you to Ms. Linton and Ms. Harrison for their hard work and dedication in preparing our students for this wonderful event. The performance truly showcased the talent and effort of our amazing students, and we are so proud of them. Thank you to all the families and community members who came out to support our chorus. Your encouragement means so much!

Last Tuesday, we hosted our Science and Math Night along with our Book Fair. It was so nice to see such a wonderful turnout from our families.

Ms. Monaghan’s class was in for a treat last week. Mr. and Mrs. Monaghan, Ms. Monaghan’s parents stopped by to visit and read to the class.

Lunch bunch and power walk equals some happy kiddos! Ms. Scher and Mrs. Badia enjoyed their time with these amazing students!

ATES Student Parent Lunch_01/16/24

The Family Engagement Committee is sponsoring the Student-Parent Lunch Day on Thursday, January 16, 2025. Parents are invited to have lunch with their student during their lunch time. This event is part of increasing family engagement at ATES and providing parents an opportunity to come to the school. The price for lunch is $5.00 for all guests (Free of charge for all students in Annandale Terrace). Please complete this survey (https://forms.gle/rd2EVBYApJ9kQRCXA) if you are planning to attend. Thank you!

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey ASAP

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The paper form was sent home with your students on Thursday, November 14. Please be sure to return them to the office if you haven't done so. 

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important, because 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.

Please watch this video and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page for more information.  

Questions? Please call or email Ms. Sherry Hamzehloo, our Parent Liaison@ 703-658-5693 or [email protected]  or Mr. Jose Vega, our Registrar @ 703-658-5602 or [email protected]

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: Michelle Carr- Hogan, [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 Michelle Carr- Hogan, [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.

Wee Play Parent-Child Playgroups

Parents, caregivers, and their young children birth – 5 years old are invited to enroll in Annandale Terrace Elementary School's free, 90-minute weekly playgroups on Thursdays at 9:30 - 11:00 AM or 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM.  This program is for families with children who are not already enrolled in a preschool program or another early education program. The Wee Play program, led by a Fairfax County Public School facilitator, is based on the belief that parents and other caregivers are children’s first and most important teachers. In a welcoming and friendly space at Annandale Terrace Elementary, Wee Play provides the opportunity for caregivers and their children to learn together and to develop the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.  

Activities include exploring toys and materials, singing songs, hearing stories, playing games, and parent discussions.  

Join us beginning Thursday, January 9 and every Thursday through the end of May.  Enrollment is required. Registration forms are available in the school office and should be returned to ATES Main Office.

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

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. 

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon

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 your child’s school. 

Register for ParentVUE

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

🍲 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.

❄️ 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.

School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue!

FCPS encourages students to take advantage of fun learning opportunities during winter break and snow days. Consider these winter activities to blend education and play for your students during winter break or weather-related school closures.

Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students

Students with sensory disabilities require specialized services and support to access instruction that is typically presented visually and auditorily (by means of hearing). FCPS provides educational services to students who are deaf, hearing-impaired, or visually impaired. They are supported in various settings, including at their school or through itinerant specialists who travel to different schools to work with students, rather than being based in a single school. Learn more about Services for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and Services for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired.

Visit the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) website for Resources for Serving Students with Sensory Disabilities.

📚 Social Studies Basal Resources Review

FCPS is adopting Social Studies Basal Resources for the 2025-26 school year. Basal resources are the primary resources used to support instruction in a given subject. Public review of the instructional materials under consideration — which is part of the process for selecting new resources — is underway. Visit the Community Review webpage for more information on how to view the materials online or in person. 

All community feedback will be shared with School Board members before they vote to select materials in spring 2025. FCPS adopts basal resources by the process outlined in Regulation 3004.

📚 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.

Community Meetings on the Comprehensive Boundary Review

If you did not get a chance to attend one of the recent community meetings on the Comprehensive Boundary Review, please consider attending the final meeting in this first phase of the boundary review process. The Region 1 meeting will take place Wednesday, December 18, 6:30-8 p.m.,in the Madison High School cafeteria. Register today. If you are unable to participate, stay tuned for details about virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings coming early next year.

View FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

Tutoring Resources for Families

Is your family looking for resources to help support your child’s academic success? FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of district employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to be hired as a tutor by parents. FRC maintains this list, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource.

FCPS also partners with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors' services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests.

✨ FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence, reminds us of our commitment to supporting each and every student and helping them meet or exceed high academic standards.

Yearbook Pre-Order is Open!

Don't miss out! The Annandale Terrace 2024-2025 Yearbook is now available for early bird pricing at just $16! Pre-order yours before prices go up after April 11th. Secure those memories today! Visit https://www.strawbridge.net/ and enter code YB30242.  The yearbooks will be passed out in June. 

⛄ 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.

FCPS News

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

• Course Selection for Middle and High School Students
• Join Our Teacher Team!
• Comprehensive Boundary Review Updates

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

Free Workshops for Families

Parents and caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Learn more about the Family Resource Center (FRC).

The FRC will host webinars for families on supporting siblings of children with disabilities, helping students organize their school work, working with children who like to push boundaries, and teen development and well-being. Sign up for the FRC newsletter for their latest offerings or visit their webinar website.

7604 Herald St, Annandale, VA 22003 |  Main Phone: 703.658.5600
Attendance: 703.658.5656 or Submit an absence online
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