FCPS

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Important Dates:

Nov 15         Veterans Day Celebration, Flag Ceremony 8:30-

Nov 18         3-Hour Early Release

Nov 21         SLES Thanksgiving Luncheon

Nov 27-29    Thanksgiving Holiday- No School

Dec 2-6        Book Fair

🎖️Veterans Day Celebration 🎖️

We will be honoring and celebrating our Stratford Landing Veterans and Active Duty members TOMORROW, November 15th starting with a flag ceremony from 8:30am. Please join us in the flag ceremony so that we can honor our Veterans and show our appreciation.

 Holiday Season Gift Card Drive

 We are currently having a Gift Card Drive and would like to ask for your support in donating gift cards to help SLES families purchase food this coming holiday season. Any support will be greatly appreciated! If you can help, please drop off the gift cards to the front desk by November 20th or forward the electronic gift cards to [email protected].

SLES Thanksgiving Luncheon If you are joining us on Thursday, November 21st for our Thanksgiving Luncheon:

There will be an area in front of the entrance for you and guests to sign in. Please make sure there are sufficient funds in your student’s MySchoolBucks account if you plan to purchase a lunch for yourself. You may also bring cash. Afterwards, please proceed to the cafeteria to join your student for the Thanksgiving Luncheon! 🦃

Please do not follow students back into classrooms as they will need to continue with their school day as scheduled. If you wish to sign your student out for the day, please come to the main office to do so before leaving. Below are the luncheon times:

• 10:20-11:00- 3rd Grade
• 11:00-11:30- 1st Grade
• 11:30-12:00- 4th Grade
• 12:00-12:30- Kindergarten                                            
• 12:30-1:00- 2nd Grade
• 1:15-1:45- 6th Grade
• 1:45-2:15- 5th Grade Classes- Brown, Nguyen, Bazemore
• 2:15-2:45- 5th Grade Classes- Young, Gallego, P. Johnson

RSVP for the Thanksgiving Luncheon at: https://forms.gle/wXTkkqAUabs6ame87

Family Engagement Month

November is National Family Engagement Month!

This month reminds us that families are children’s first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers. Over 35 years of research shows that the most effective way to increase student achievement is for families to be actively involved in their children's education.

There are many opportunities to be engaged with your child at SLES this month such as joining our Veteran's Day Celebration event or the Thanksgiving Luncheon!

Below are some fun ideas on how families can be engaged with their children's learning and growth:

• Join your school's PTA!
• Commit to volunteer at your child’s school three times this school year. 
• Plan a day with no electronics. Consider books, games, or puzzles.
• Listen to and discuss different types of music with your child
• Put a note into your child's backpack or lunch box as a token of encouragement.
• Talk to your child about his/ her favorite subject in school
• Flip through old family photos and tell stories about your family's history
• Prepare a meal together as a family 
• Visit your local library or go online to get a library card for your child. 
• Practice digital safety and responsibility with your child. Ideas and tip sheets.
• Review Quick Tips for Parents Library  
• Ask your child what they discuss in Morning Meetings and Advisory. 

Literacy Resources for Families Webpage

Please visit the new Literacy Resources for Families webpage which has been published to provide families with information about how you can support your children with developing literacy knowledge and skills at home.

It provides valuable information about the reading and writing resources that can be used at home, the VALLSS, Reading Plans, guidance for Parent Teacher Conferences, and training available through the Family Academy. 

PTA Holiday Fundraiser with BloomBox

 

Greetings & Happy Holidays!

 

The Stratford Landing PTA is pleased to announce our 2024 Holiday Fundraiser in Partnership with BloomBox! BloomBox is a local online garden center that sells handmade wreaths, fresh wintergreens, holiday planters, garland & more. You will order these things online via their website and they will deliver them by hand, right to your home!

 

When you order your Decor from BloomBox, they will donate 15% of your purchase amount directly to us. We are so excited about this fundraiser because it’s an easy way for us to earn money, and all of you to have the opportunity to purchase beautiful fresh holiday decor, have it delivered, and support a local business at the same time. It’s a win-win for everyone!

 

Our 2024 Holiday Fundraising Event has begun! You can now order holiday décor to be counted towards our fundraiser.

 

Please read the instructions below about how to participate in the fundraiser:

1: Visit www.getblooming.com on your computer or cell phone

2: Shop for holiday décor, add them to your shopping cart and head to the checkout page

3: In the checkout page, you need to enter our unique code SLES15 into the ‘fundraising code’ box. Attached to this email are screenshots of where to enter this code.

4: After you order, BloomBox will hand-deliver your purchase directly to your home between the dates of November 16th and December 6th. It’s really that easy!

 

Our fundraising event runs from today through November 15th. During this time, you can order as many times as you like.

Head over to www.getblooming.com to see what they have and place your order!

Outstanding Employee Awards

 We would greatly appreciate it if you could take a little bit of time to nominate a wonderful member of Stratford Landing!

Federal Impact Aid Survey

Dear Stratford Landing Families,

The Federal Impact Aid Survey is now available to complete online. Please complete as soon as possible. Paper copies will be sent home next week if not completed online. 

The Federal Impact Aid program provides money to districts that enroll federally connected students. Help FCPS secure funding from the Impact Aid Program by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Your support will ensure that we receive the resources for which we are eligible. Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

Step 1: CLICK HERE or use the QR Code to be taken to SIS ParentVUE.

to be taken to SIS ParentVUE.

If you don’t have a SIS ParentVUE account, contact your child’s school for an activation letter. 

2. After you’ve logged into your ParentVue Account, look for the ‘Online Packets’ link at the top of the page. Click ‘Online Packets’.

3. Next, click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page:

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please fill out a form for each child. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you get to the final page, and see a green check next to each of their names.

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12.

Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

Thank you.

Mr. Morris

Immunizations- Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

Children go through a lot of changes, and it can be hard to tell if their behavior is developmentally appropriate or if they could benefit from mental health support. It’s important to talk to your child and pay attention to their actions, especially these warning signs:

• Increased irritability, hyperactivity, energy, and/or aggressive behavior.
• Excessive sadness, hopelessness, or worries.
• Loss of appetite, or significant weight gain or loss.
• Lack of sleep or too much sleep.
• A decline in grades, school avoidance, or attendance concerns.
• Alcohol or drug use.
• Withdrawal from activities and/or friends and family. 
• Thoughts of harming themselves or others.

If you notice any of these warning signs or feel your child may be experiencing a mental health challenge, help is available. Please contact our school's Wellness Team Members to discuss your concerns and identify resources. 

Allison Krusinski, Psychologist, - [email protected]

Mersal Shaker, School Counselor - [email protected]

Raina Roop, School Counselor - [email protected]

Kristina Jorden, Social Worker - [email protected]  

Haruka Hopp, Family Liaison - [email protected]

 

Find additional ways to support your child’s wellness. 

If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis such as thoughts of harming themselves or others, please take action right away. Call 988, go to the nearest emergency room, or contact the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Emergency Services at 703-573-5679.

 

We All Belong at School

Each one of us is unique, and every student matters. If your student is having a difficult time attending class, please speak with a trusted adult at school. 

Watch this video to see how everyone belongs at school. Visit our Attendance webpage for resources on attendance. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

 

🗓️ Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

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

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

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

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

• SPANISH:🗓️ Consejo para la asistencia: Programar viajes o eventos familiares

La buena asistencia es una habilidad importante para la vida que ayudará a los estudiantes a tener éxito en la escuela y más allá.

Cuando planee viajes o eventos familiares, refiérase al calendario de FCPS y trate de usar los fines de semana y días festivos de la escuela. Cada día de aprendizaje es un día hacia el éxito. Tenga en cuenta que las ausencias se suman rápidamente. Los estudiantes que faltan el 10% del año escolar (o sólo dos días al mes) se consideran ausentes crónicos.

Cuando sea posible, programe citas para su hijo fuera del horario escolar. Si su hijo tiene que faltar a clase por enfermedad u otro motivo, debe reportar la ausencia. 

Vea este vídeo con consejos para entender nuestro calendario escolar y visite nuestra página web de Asistencia para obtener información adicional. ¡Asista hoy, para tener exito mañana!

 

Gun Safety and Safe Gun Storage

Providing students and staff with a safe educational environment remains our priority. Sadly, gun violence continues to impact schools and communities across our nation.

In FCPS, lessons on gun safety are built into our curriculum. It is critical that parents and guardians talk to their children about the importance of gun safety and safe gun storage in their homes, and in any home they may visit. 

The FCPS website has gun safety resources as well as detailed information about safety and security practices at schools. See Dr. Reid’s recent letter to the community for more resources. 

Safely Store Firearms and Medications

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board has a limited supply of free locking medication boxes and trigger locks that fit a wide variety of firearms. Visit the Lock and Talk website to learn more.

Programs Available in FCPS

Two NEW Early Literacy sites in the Mt. Vernon area are at Fort Belvoir Primary School and Sequoyah Community Center (both Wed./Fri. 10am-12pm).  Families can learn more about these and other opportunities through the brand new FCPS Family Academy

Programs in the Community

LMVSC is a local non-profit that provides fun and affordable sports programs for kids in the community. Their registration for the winter basketball season is now open!

They also offer financial aid to ensure that every child has the chance to play, regardless of their financial situation. 

Please refer to the flyer for more details.

8484 Riverside Road Alexandria, Virginia 22308 | Main Office: 703-619-3600
Attendance: 703-619-3636 | Web | Twitter

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

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

Important Dates:

Nov 11         Veterans Day- No School

Nov 13         First Quarter Progress Reports

Nov 15         Veterans Day Celebration, Flag Ceremony 8:30-

Nov 18         3-Hour Early Release

Nov 21         SLES Thanksgiving Luncheon

Nov 27-29    Thanksgiving Holiday- No School

Dec 2-6        Book Fair

Progress Reports

FCPS first quarter progress reports will be sent home in Wednesday folders to families on Wednesday, Nov 13. Special education progress reports will also be inserted in the same envelope. There are several changes that families will see related to progress reports and how students are assessed. Please take a look  at how FCPS has made changes with language arts grading on our website. 

🎖️Veterans Day Celebration 🎖️

We will be honoring and celebrating our Stratford Landing Veterans and Active Duty members on November 15th starting with a flag ceremony from 8:30am. Please join us in the flag ceremony so that we can honor our Veterans and show our appreciation.

If you are interested in sharing your experience and speaking in your child’s classroom, please use the QR code on the attached flyer or this link to sign up.

 Holiday Season Gift Card Drive

 We are currently having a Gift Card Drive and would like to ask for your support in donating gift cards to help SLES families purchase food this coming holiday season. Any support will be greatly appreciated! If you can help, please drop off the gift cards to the front desk by November 20th or forward the electronic gift cards to [email protected].

SLES Thanksgiving Luncheon

Please join us for the Thanksgiving Luncheon on November 21st, Thursday! Below are the times for the Thanksgiving Luncheon.

10:20-11:00- 3rd Grade

11:00-11:30- 1st Grade

11:30-12:00- 4th Grade

12:00-12:30- Kindergarten

12:30-1:00- 2nd Grade

1:15-1:45- 6th Grade

1:45-2:15- 5th Grade Classes- Brown, Nguyen, Bazemore

2:15-2:45- 5th Grade Classes- Young, Gallego, P. Johnson

Family Engagement Month

November is National Family Engagement Month!

This month reminds us that families are children’s first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers. Over 35 years of research shows that the most effective way to increase student achievement is for families to be actively involved in their children's education.

There are many opportunities to be engaged with your child at SLES this month such as joining our Veteran's Day Celebration event or the Thanksgiving Luncheon!

Below are some fun ideas on how families can be engaged with their children's learning and growth:

• Join your school's PTA!
• Commit to volunteer at your child’s school three times this school year. 
• Plan a day with no electronics. Consider books, games, or puzzles.
• Listen to and discuss different types of music with your child
• Put a note into your child's backpack or lunch box as a token of encouragement.
• Talk to your child about his/ her favorite subject in school
• Flip through old family photos and tell stories about your family's history
• Prepare a meal together as a family 
• Visit your local library or go online to get a library card for your child. 
• Practice digital safety and responsibility with your child. Ideas and tip sheets.
• Review Quick Tips for Parents Library  
• Ask your child what they discuss in Morning Meetings and Advisory. 

PTA Holiday Fundraiser with BloomBox

 

Greetings & Happy Holidays!

 

The Stratford Landing PTA is pleased to announce our 2024 Holiday Fundraiser in Partnership with BloomBox! BloomBox is a local online garden center that sells handmade wreaths, fresh wintergreens, holiday planters, garland & more. You will order these things online via their website and they will deliver them by hand, right to your home!

 

When you order your Decor from BloomBox, they will donate 15% of your purchase amount directly to us. We are so excited about this fundraiser because it’s an easy way for us to earn money, and all of you to have the opportunity to purchase beautiful fresh holiday decor, have it delivered, and support a local business at the same time. It’s a win-win for everyone!

 

Our 2024 Holiday Fundraising Event begins TODAY! You can now order holiday décor to be counted towards our fundraiser.

 

Please read the instructions below about how to participate in the fundraiser:

1: Visit www.getblooming.com on your computer or cell phone

2: Shop for holiday décor, add them to your shopping cart and head to the checkout page

3: In the checkout page, you need to enter our unique code SLES15 into the ‘fundraising code’ box. Attached to this email are screenshots of where to enter this code.

4: After you order, BloomBox will hand-deliver your purchase directly to your home between the dates of November 16th and December 6th. It’s really that easy!

 

Our fundraising event runs from today through November 15th. During this time, you can order as many times as you like.

Head over to www.getblooming.com to see what they have and place your order!

Outstanding Employee Awards

 We would greatly appreciate it if you could take a little bit of time to nominate a wonderful member of Stratford Landing!

Federal Impact Aid Survey

Attention SLES Families!

The Federal Impact Aid Survey is now available to complete online. 

The Federal Impact Aid program provides money to districts that enroll federally connected students. Help FCPS secure funding from the Impact Aid Program by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

Your support will ensure that we receive the resources for which we are eligible.

Step 1: CLICK HERE or use the QR Code to be taken to SIS ParentVUE.

to be taken to SIS ParentVUE.

If you don’t have a SIS ParentVUE account, contact your child’s school for an activation letter. 

2. After you’ve logged into your ParentVue Account, look for the ‘Online Packets’ link at the top of the page. Click ‘Online Packets’.

3. Next, click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page:

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please make sure to fill out a form for each of your children. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you see a green check next to each of their names on the final screen.

Immunizations- Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

Children go through a lot of changes, and it can be hard to tell if their behavior is developmentally appropriate or if they could benefit from mental health support. It’s important to talk to your child and pay attention to their actions, especially these warning signs:

• Increased irritability, hyperactivity, energy, and/or aggressive behavior.
• Excessive sadness, hopelessness, or worries.
• Loss of appetite, or significant weight gain or loss.
• Lack of sleep or too much sleep.
• A decline in grades, school avoidance, or attendance concerns.
• Alcohol or drug use.
• Withdrawal from activities and/or friends and family. 
• Thoughts of harming themselves or others.

If you notice any of these warning signs or feel your child may be experiencing a mental health challenge, help is available. Please contact our school's Wellness Team Members to discuss your concerns and identify resources. 

Allison Krusinski, Psychologist, - [email protected]

Mersal Shaker, School Counselor - [email protected]

Raina Roop, School Counselor - [email protected]

Kristina Jorden, Social Worker - [email protected]  

Haruka Hopp, Family Liaison - [email protected]

 

Find additional ways to support your child’s wellness. 

If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis such as thoughts of harming themselves or others, please take action right away. Call 988, go to the nearest emergency room, or contact the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Emergency Services at 703-573-5679.

 

We All Belong at School

Each one of us is unique, and every student matters. If your student is having a difficult time attending class, please speak with a trusted adult at school. 

Watch this video to see how everyone belongs at school. Visit our Attendance webpage for resources on attendance. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

 

🗓️ Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

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

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

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

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

• SPANISH:🗓️ Consejo para la asistencia: Programar viajes o eventos familiares

La buena asistencia es una habilidad importante para la vida que ayudará a los estudiantes a tener éxito en la escuela y más allá.

Cuando planee viajes o eventos familiares, refiérase al calendario de FCPS y trate de usar los fines de semana y días festivos de la escuela. Cada día de aprendizaje es un día hacia el éxito. Tenga en cuenta que las ausencias se suman rápidamente. Los estudiantes que faltan el 10% del año escolar (o sólo dos días al mes) se consideran ausentes crónicos.

Cuando sea posible, programe citas para su hijo fuera del horario escolar. Si su hijo tiene que faltar a clase por enfermedad u otro motivo, debe reportar la ausencia. 

Vea este vídeo con consejos para entender nuestro calendario escolar y visite nuestra página web de Asistencia para obtener información adicional. ¡Asista hoy, para tener exito mañana!

 

Gun Safety and Safe Gun Storage

Providing students and staff with a safe educational environment remains our priority. Sadly, gun violence continues to impact schools and communities across our nation.

In FCPS, lessons on gun safety are built into our curriculum. It is critical that parents and guardians talk to their children about the importance of gun safety and safe gun storage in their homes, and in any home they may visit. 

The FCPS website has gun safety resources as well as detailed information about safety and security practices at schools. See Dr. Reid’s recent letter to the community for more resources. 

Safely Store Firearms and Medications

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board has a limited supply of free locking medication boxes and trigger locks that fit a wide variety of firearms. Visit the Lock and Talk website to learn more.

Programs Available in FCPS

Two NEW Early Literacy sites in the Mt. Vernon area are at Fort Belvoir Primary School and Sequoyah Community Center (both Wed./Fri. 10am-12pm).  Families can learn more about these and other opportunities through the brand new FCPS Family Academy

Programs in the Community

LMVSC is a local non-profit that provides fun and affordable sports programs for kids in the community. Their registration for the winter basketball season is now open!

They also offer financial aid to ensure that every child has the chance to play, regardless of their financial situation. 

Please refer to the flyer for more details.

8484 Riverside Road Alexandria, Virginia 22308 | Main Office: 703-619-3600
Attendance: 703-619-3636 | Web | Twitter

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

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

Important Dates:

Oct 31          2-Hour Early Release- End of 1st Quarter 

                     SLES Book Character Spirit Day

Nov 1           Student Holiday- Religious / Cultural Observance: Diwali, All                               Saints Day, Dia de los Muertos

Nov 4           Student Holiday- Teacher Workday

Nov 5           Student Holiday- Teacher Workday

Nov 11         Veterans Day- No School

Nov 15         Veterans Day Celebration, Flag Ceremony 8:30-

Nov 18         3-Hour Early Release

Nov 21         SLES Thanksgiving Luncheon

A Message from Mr. Morris

We have so much to celebrate in our first quarter of school. Stratford Landing has been a busy place so far this school year.

In the first quarter of school, we implemented a new homework policy. Teachers and families, and even students, feel positive about our approach to learning at home. Additionally, teachers send weekly newsletters home with home connections and resources families can take advantage of.

Our implementation of the new FCPS literacy program, Benchmark Advance, has been successful. Teachers are working hard to learn the ins and outs of this new literacy program and approach, and our teams of teachers are collaborating every day to implement this new program with fidelity. Families have provided positive feedback around the resources and work their students are bringing home. One parent stated, “I feel like I have a handle on the work that my kid is doing everyday at school. I also have a sense of how I can help them and support them at home.” One teacher noted, “Benchmark helps me focus and organize my literacy instruction.” One student said, “I like the booklets we work through!”

Our work with Zones of Regulation continues this school year. We saw a positive impact on social and emotional learning (SEL) last school year, and teachers continue to embed SEL into each school day, especially during Morning Meetings. This week, all eligible students will have completed the FCPS SEL screener. This will provide us helpful data as we continue to support the “whole” child.

It has been a busy school year with beginning of the year assessments and student data collection. These assessments help inform instruction and enable teachers to provide direct, targeted instruction to students around specific skills and needs. We utilize our Dolphin Time to provide targeted intervention to students at all levels. Your child’s teacher will be able to share more about this beginning of the year data, and your child’s strengths and areas of growth during upcoming progress conferences. Grade levels have been communicating those conference dates with families via their classroom newsletters. Our teachers will be hosting these progress conferences up through winter vacation.

Our work with Get2Green continues, and earlier this school year Stratford Landing was recognized by the FCPS Get2Green team for our work at SLES. We’ve planted trees, started to raise salmon, maintain a student led recycling program and implemented a food share table in the cafeteria. Our students are passionate about Get2Green and this initiative provides our students leadership and civic engagement opportunities. Soon our fourth graders will begin a mulching project to further protect our newly planted trees on campus. Other ways we are promoting student leadership is through our school safety patrols, our upcoming 6th Grade Bake Sale and our Student Leadership Association (SLA), who will be partnering with Be The Good in the next few weeks.

An establishment of the Stratford Social Club has enabled us to focus on the fun of our work as educators. The Club builds community, collegiality and comradery among our staff members and provides our staff members support when there is need. From taco bars to chili cook-offs, our Stratford Social Club is impacting staff morale positively. Our Social Club has also provided support to staff members facing personal and family health and adversity.    

We hosted the West Potomac marching band and orchestra for a lively assembly on our blacktop. We also hosted a schoolwide morning meeting that helped promote community and provide a sense of belonging for all our students. We celebrated our new Dolphin Decree logo during this school-wide morning meeting. We hosted two Distinguished Dolphins ceremonies so far and recognized about 75 students. Our spirt days have been exciting for students, and so far we hosted a “Back in the Groove” school spirt day, a digital citizenship spirt week, and of course the exciting Halloween book character spirt day.

A big, BIG thanks to our PTA for all their support so far this school year. We hosted a super fun Bingo Night, and just this past weekend hosted a wonderful Trunk or Treat for our students and families. Our after-school clubs are in full swing and our PTA is currently preparing for our SLES Veterans Day celebration on Nov 15.

A big shout out for another successful Rock N Run. Our students have come to adore this tradition, and even students new to Stratford Landing get swept up in the excitement. I always appreciate how students from other grade levels cheer for one another while running laps. For many students to do this, they actually “skip” their recess so they can watch other grade levels run and cheer them on. It’s awesome. We so appreciate all the work our PTA engages in to ensure not only is the event a successful one, but that we also have awesome prizes (who doesn’t love an inflatable obstacle course) for all our students to celebrate in the months to come. Additionally, our PTA works tirelessly to ensure enough money is raised to support our school and our students. We are forever grateful for our partnership with PTA and what our board members and volunteers do for SLES each day!

Additionally, I wanted to give a big thanks to all our family volunteers that work in our Family Volunteer Room (FVR) to complete many time-saving tasks for our teachers which frees them up to focus more on planning and instruction. One teacher said, “The FVR is a game changer for me. Seriously!” 

We have had a joyful first quarter of school. Our SLES staff are very supportive of one another and we celebrate our work together frequently. Our students report enjoying school, making friends and having trusted adults they can engage with during the school day. If you have any questions or concerns about the school day, be sure to reach out to your child’s teacher. The Stratford Landing administration team is also available to help and support.

We appreciate your partnership.

Kevin Morris, Principal     

🎖️Veterans Day Celebration 🎖️

We will be honoring and celebrating our Stratford Landing Veterans and Active Duty members on November 15th starting with a flag ceremony from 8:30am. Please join us in the flag ceremony so that we can honor our Veterans and show our appreciation.

If you are interested in sharing your experience and speaking in your child’s classroom, please use the QR code on the attached flyer or this link to sign up.

6th Grade Election Day Bake Sale!

Tuesday, 11/05, from 7am-7pm or until sold out

 

 The 6th Grade Election Day Bake Sale is quickly approaching! In order to make this a BIG success, we would greatly appreciate your consideration of contributing homemade baked goods, purchasing baked goods/snacks, 6th grade volunteers, as well as parent/guardian supervision, to help sell goodies on Election Day, and/or 6th graders to make signs advertising the bake sale. Day-of shifts start at 7am on Tuesday, Nov. 5th and end by 7pm. Students will receive service hours! If you are not expected to be in the area on election day, please consider a donation. Funds earned will go towards the much anticipated 6th grade class activities. This is one of 6th grade's most important fundraisers so thanks in advance for your help.  Additionally, please encourage local family, and friends to stop by and purchase items on Election Day!  A link to the sign up genius with all the details is below - do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.   

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B094BACA92FA75-52369410-6thgrade?

 Holiday Season Gift Card Drive

 We are currently having a Gift Card Drive and would like to ask for your support in donating gift cards to help SLES families purchasing food this coming holiday season. Any support will be greatly appreciated! If you can help, please drop off the gift cards to the front desk by November 16th.

SLES Thanksgiving Luncheon

Please join us for the Thanksgiving Luncheon on November 21st, Thursday! Below are the times for the Thanksgiving Luncheon.

10:20-11:00- 3rd Grade

11:00-11:30- 1st Grade

11:30-12:00- 4th Grade

12:00-12:30- Kindergarten

12:30-1:00- 2nd Grade

1:15-1:45- 6th Grade

1:45-2:15- 5th Grade Classes- Brown, Nguyen, Bazemore

2:15-2:45- 5th Grade Classes- Young, Gallego, P. Johnson

Stratford Landing Family Pets Challenge!

Stratford Landing Parents,

  Our School Business Boosters are sponsoring a Parents Connect challenge in October called "Family Petsapalooza" where parents can celebrate their furry friends by submitting pet photos.  (One lucky parent/pet from the participating schools will win a $100 Amazon gift card at the end of the month!)

 

 Visit Family Petsapalooza to nominate your pet and meet other Stratford Landing pets.

 

 And help us win the School Business Boosters Fall Parents Connect Challenge by nominating your pet and adding yourself to the "Meet the Parents" directory.  

 

 Every connected parent and/or pet helps us win the prize for having the most engaged Elementary parents, $250 for our Teacher Appreciation fund!

Federal Impact Aid Survey

Attention SLES Families!

The Federal Impact Aid Survey is now available to complete online. 

The Federal Impact Aid program provides money to districts that enroll federally connected students. Help FCPS secure funding from the Impact Aid Program by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

Your support will ensure that we receive the resources for which we are eligible.

Step 1: CLICK HERE or use the QR Code to be taken to SIS ParentVUE.

to be taken to SIS ParentVUE.

If you don’t have a SIS ParentVUE account, contact your child’s school for an activation letter. 

2. After you’ve logged into your ParentVue Account, look for the ‘Online Packets’ link at the top of the page. Click ‘Online Packets’.

3. Next, click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page:

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please make sure to fill out a form for each of your children. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you see a green check next to each of their names on the final screen.

Immunizations- Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

Children go through a lot of changes, and it can be hard to tell if their behavior is developmentally appropriate or if they could benefit from mental health support. It’s important to talk to your child and pay attention to their actions, especially these warning signs:

• Increased irritability, hyperactivity, energy, and/or aggressive behavior.
• Excessive sadness, hopelessness, or worries.
• Loss of appetite, or significant weight gain or loss.
• Lack of sleep or too much sleep.
• A decline in grades, school avoidance, or attendance concerns.
• Alcohol or drug use.
• Withdrawal from activities and/or friends and family. 
• Thoughts of harming themselves or others.

If you notice any of these warning signs or feel your child may be experiencing a mental health challenge, help is available. Please contact our school's Wellness Team Members to discuss your concerns and identify resources. 

Allison Krusinski, Psychologist, - [email protected]

Mersal Shaker, School Counselor - [email protected]

Raina Roop, School Counselor - [email protected]

Kristina Jorden, Social Worker - [email protected]  

Haruka Hopp, Family Liaison - [email protected]

 

Find additional ways to support your child’s wellness. 

If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis such as thoughts of harming themselves or others, please take action right away. Call 988, go to the nearest emergency room, or contact the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Emergency Services at 703-573-5679.

 

We All Belong at School

Each one of us is unique, and every student matters. If your student is having a difficult time attending class, please speak with a trusted adult at school. 

Watch this video to see how everyone belongs at school. Visit our Attendance webpage for resources on attendance. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

 

🗓️ Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

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

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

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

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

• SPANISH:🗓️ Consejo para la asistencia: Programar viajes o eventos familiares

La buena asistencia es una habilidad importante para la vida que ayudará a los estudiantes a tener éxito en la escuela y más allá.

Cuando planee viajes o eventos familiares, refiérase al calendario de FCPS y trate de usar los fines de semana y días festivos de la escuela. Cada día de aprendizaje es un día hacia el éxito. Tenga en cuenta que las ausencias se suman rápidamente. Los estudiantes que faltan el 10% del año escolar (o sólo dos días al mes) se consideran ausentes crónicos.

Cuando sea posible, programe citas para su hijo fuera del horario escolar. Si su hijo tiene que faltar a clase por enfermedad u otro motivo, debe reportar la ausencia. 

Vea este vídeo con consejos para entender nuestro calendario escolar y visite nuestra página web de Asistencia para obtener información adicional. ¡Asista hoy, para tener exito mañana!

 

Gun Safety and Safe Gun Storage

Providing students and staff with a safe educational environment remains our priority. Sadly, gun violence continues to impact schools and communities across our nation.

In FCPS, lessons on gun safety are built into our curriculum. It is critical that parents and guardians talk to their children about the importance of gun safety and safe gun storage in their homes, and in any home they may visit. 

The FCPS website has gun safety resources as well as detailed information about safety and security practices at schools. See Dr. Reid’s recent letter to the community for more resources. 

Safely Store Firearms and Medications

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board has a limited supply of free locking medication boxes and trigger locks that fit a wide variety of firearms. Visit the Lock and Talk website to learn more.

Programs Available in FCPS

Two NEW Early Literacy sites in the Mt. Vernon area are at Fort Belvoir Primary School and Sequoyah Community Center (both Wed./Fri. 10am-12pm).  Families can learn more about these and other opportunities through the brand new FCPS Family Academy

Programs in the Community

LMVSC is a local non-profit that provides fun and affordable sports programs for kids in the community. Their registration for the winter basketball season is now open!

They also offer financial aid to ensure that every child has the chance to play, regardless of their financial situation. 

Please refer to the flyer for more details.

8484 Riverside Road Alexandria, Virginia 22308 | Main Office: 703-619-3600
Attendance: 703-619-3636 | Web | Twitter

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

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

Important Dates:

Oct 25          Rock N Run Event 

Oct 26          SLES Trunk or Treat

Oct 31          2-Hour Early Release

Nov 1           Student Holiday- Religious / Cultural Observance: Diwali, All                               Saints Day, Dia de los Muertos

Nov 4           Student Holiday- Teacher Workday

Nov 5           Student Holiday- Teacher Workday

Rock 'N Run Is Tomorrow!

Rock 'n Run donations donations help the PTA support our community- students, teachers, staff, and families. The money we raise from Rock 'n Run helps support after school clubs, in-school enrichment, including the discovery garden classroom supplies, books, learning materials, and SO much more. Check out our Rock 'n Run page for more information on the race day schedule, Rock 'n Run "prizes," what your donations fund, and our amazing sponsors. 

 

Rock 'n Race Day is TOMORROW Friday, October 25!!!

SLES PTA’s biggest fundraiser Rock ‘n’ Run is just around the corner, and we need YOU! Take photos! Get classes out to the field! Mark laps on t-shirts! Help students hydrate! Much more… there is a job for everyone. Donate just a couple hours of your time to this crazy fun and vital event. Let's fill up this sign-up, Dolphins!

Volunteer to help us make the day a success 

Trunk or Treat

Saturday, October 26 at 4pm (set up starts at 3pm)

Trunk or Treaters, get ready! To make this event extra SPOOKTACULAR, we are in need of some help for our community. Student volunteers are welcome to build community service hours! 

Check out opportunities to help out with this super fun event! Candy donations are also welcome and will be collected in a monster box in the SLES office starting on Monday, 10/21 - Happy Halloween!

Ghosts of Halloweens Past Costume Challenge!

Team Stratford Landing ES,

Our School Business Boosters are sponsoring another Challenge, Ghosts of Halloweens Past, for Stratford Landing ES. Share your favorite costumes from Halloweens past to delight/challenge/stump parents and teachers AND to enter to win an Amazon gift card for the favorite costume from our participating schools! (Each parent entry helps Stratford Landing ES earn points to win the Fall Parents Connect Challenge and $250.00 to our Teacher Appreciation Fund!) https://www.KidBizInc.com?Halloween=3629

6th Grade Election Day Bake Sale!

Tuesday, 11/05, from 7am-7pm or until sold out

 

 The 6th Grade Election Day Bake Sale is quickly approaching! In order to make this a BIG success, we would greatly appreciate your consideration of contributing homemade baked goods, purchasing baked goods/snacks, 6th grade volunteers, as well as parent/guardian supervision, to help sell goodies on Election Day, and/or 6th graders to make signs advertising the bake sale. Day-of shifts start at 7am on Tuesday, Nov. 5th and end by 7pm. Students will receive service hours! If you are not expected to be in the area on election day, please consider a donation. Funds earned will go towards the much anticipated 6th grade class activities. This is one of 6th grade's most important fundraisers so thanks in advance for your help.  Additionally, please encourage local family, and friends to stop by and purchase items on Election Day!  A link to the sign up genius with all the details is below - do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.   

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B094BACA92FA75-52369410-6thgrade?useFullSite=true#/

 Holiday Season Gift Card Drive

 We will be having a Gift Card Drive and would like to ask for your support in donating gift cards to help SLES families purchasing food this coming holiday season. Any support will be greatly appreciated! If you can help, please drop off the gift cards to the front desk by November 16th.

Stratford Landing Family Pets Challenge!

Stratford Landing Parents,

  Our School Business Boosters are sponsoring a Parents Connect challenge in October called "Family Petsapalooza" where parents can celebrate their furry friends by submitting pet photos.  (One lucky parent/pet from the participating schools will win a $100 Amazon gift card at the end of the month!)

 

 Visit https://www.KidBizInc.com?familyPets=3629 to nominate your pet and meet other Stratford Landing pets.

 

 And help us win the School Business Boosters Fall Parents Connect Challenge by nominating your pet and adding yourself to the "Meet the Parents" directory.  

 

 Every connected parent and/or pet helps us win the prize for having the most engaged Elementary parents, $250 for our Teacher Appreciation fund!

Federal Impact Aid Survey

Attention SLES Families!

The Federal Impact Aid Survey is now available to complete online. 

The Federal Impact Aid program provides money to districts that enroll federally connected students. Help FCPS secure funding from the Impact Aid Program by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

Your support will ensure that we receive the resources for which we are eligible.

Step 1: CLICK HERE or use the QR Code to be taken to SIS ParentVUE.

to be taken to SIS ParentVUE.

If you don’t have a SIS ParentVUE account, contact your child’s school for an activation letter. 

2. After you’ve logged into your ParentVue Account, look for the ‘Online Packets’ link at the top of the page. Click ‘Online Packets’.

3. Next, click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page:

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please make sure to fill out a form for each of your children. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you see a green check next to each of their names on the final screen.

Immunizations- Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

Children go through a lot of changes, and it can be hard to tell if their behavior is developmentally appropriate or if they could benefit from mental health support. It’s important to talk to your child and pay attention to their actions, especially these warning signs:

• Increased irritability, hyperactivity, energy, and/or aggressive behavior.
• Excessive sadness, hopelessness, or worries.
• Loss of appetite, or significant weight gain or loss.
• Lack of sleep or too much sleep.
• A decline in grades, school avoidance, or attendance concerns.
• Alcohol or drug use.
• Withdrawal from activities and/or friends and family. 
• Thoughts of harming themselves or others.

If you notice any of these warning signs or feel your child may be experiencing a mental health challenge, help is available. Please contact [name], our [school psychologist, school counselor, or school social worker] at [phone/email], to discuss your concerns and identify resources. Find additional ways to support your child’s wellness. 

If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis such as thoughts of harming themselves or others, please take action right away. Call 988, go to the nearest emergency room, or contact the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Emergency Services at 703-573-5679.

 

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School.

Events will take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

 

🎤 Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro: ¡Inscríbete hoy para asistir a una Conversación Comunitaria! 

La Superintendente, Dra. Michelle Reid, tendra una serie de Conversaciones Comunitarias este otoño. Ella le invita a compartir sus pensamientos y hacer preguntas. Haga clic en las fechas a continuación para inscribirse en cualquiera de las siguientes conversaciones:

• Miércoles, 30 de octubre, en la Escuela Secundaria de Herndon.

Los eventos serán de 6:30 a 7:30 p.m. Habrá servicio de cuidado de niños e interpretación de idiomas.

 

We All Belong at School

Each one of us is unique, and every student matters. If your student is having a difficult time attending class, please speak with a trusted adult at school. 

Watch this video to see how everyone belongs at school. Visit our Attendance webpage for resources on attendance. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

 

🗓️ Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

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

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

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

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

• SPANISH:🗓️ Consejo para la asistencia: Programar viajes o eventos familiares

La buena asistencia es una habilidad importante para la vida que ayudará a los estudiantes a tener éxito en la escuela y más allá.

Cuando planee viajes o eventos familiares, refiérase al calendario de FCPS y trate de usar los fines de semana y días festivos de la escuela. Cada día de aprendizaje es un día hacia el éxito. Tenga en cuenta que las ausencias se suman rápidamente. Los estudiantes que faltan el 10% del año escolar (o sólo dos días al mes) se consideran ausentes crónicos.

Cuando sea posible, programe citas para su hijo fuera del horario escolar. Si su hijo tiene que faltar a clase por enfermedad u otro motivo, debe reportar la ausencia. 

Vea este vídeo con consejos para entender nuestro calendario escolar y visite nuestra página web de Asistencia para obtener información adicional. ¡Asista hoy, para tener exito mañana!

 

Gun Safety and Safe Gun Storage

Providing students and staff with a safe educational environment remains our priority. Sadly, gun violence continues to impact schools and communities across our nation.

In FCPS, lessons on gun safety are built into our curriculum. It is critical that parents and guardians talk to their children about the importance of gun safety and safe gun storage in their homes, and in any home they may visit. 

The FCPS website has gun safety resources as well as detailed information about safety and security practices at schools. See Dr. Reid’s recent letter to the community for more resources. 

Safely Store Firearms and Medications

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board has a limited supply of free locking medication boxes and trigger locks that fit a wide variety of firearms. Visit the Lock and Talk website to learn more.

Programs Available in FCPS

Two NEW Early Literacy sites in the Mt. Vernon area are at Fort Belvoir Primary School and Sequoyah Community Center (both Wed./Fri. 10am-12pm).  Families can learn more about these and other opportunities through the brand new FCPS Family Academy

Family Events in the Community Programs in the Community

LMVSC is a local non-profit that provides fun and affordable sports programs for kids in the community. Their registration for the winter basketball season is now open!

They also offer financial aid to ensure that every child has the chance to play, regardless of their financial situation. 

Please refer to the flyer for more details.

8484 Riverside Road Alexandria, Virginia 22308 | Main Office: 703-619-3600
Attendance: 703-619-3636 | Web | Twitter

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

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

Important Dates:

Oct 21          3-Hour Early Release Monday

Oct 23          Virtual FLE Parent Info Night 5:30 – 6:30 pm

Oct 24          Rock N Run Pep Rally 

Oct 25          Rock N Run Event 

Oct 26          SLES Trunk or Treat

Rock 'N Run!

Rock 'n Run donations open THIS FRIDAY, October 18!  Your donations help the PTA support our community- students, teachers, staff, and families. The money we raise from Rock 'n Run helps support after school clubs, in-school enrichment, including the discovery garden classroom supplies, books, learning materials, and SO much more. Check out our Rock 'n Run page for more information on the race day schedule, Rock 'n Run "prizes," what your donations fund, and our amazing sponsors. 

 

Rock 'n Race Day is Friday, October 25. 

SLES PTA’s biggest fundraiser Rock ‘n’ Run is just around the corner, and we need YOU! Take photos! Get classes out to the field! Mark laps on t-shirts! Help students hydrate! Much more… there is a job for everyone. Donate just a couple hours of your time to this crazy fun and vital event. Let's fill up this sign-up, Dolphins!

Volunteer to help us make the day a success 

Trunk or Treat

Saturday, October 26 at 4pm (set up starts at 3pm)

Trunk or Treaters, get ready! To make this event extra SPOOKTACULAR, we are in need of some help for our community. Student volunteers are welcome to build community service hours! 

Check out opportunities to help out with this super fun event! Candy donations are also welcome and will be collected in a monster box in the SLES office starting on Monday, 10/21 - Happy Halloween!

Ghosts of Halloweens Past Costume Challenge!

Team Stratford Landing ES,

Our School Business Boosters are sponsoring another Challenge, Ghosts of Halloweens Past, for Stratford Landing ES. Share your favorite costumes from Halloweens past to delight/challenge/stump parents and teachers AND to enter to win an Amazon gift card for the favorite costume from our participating schools! (Each parent entry helps Stratford Landing ES earn points to win the Fall Parents Connect Challenge and $250.00 to our Teacher Appreciation Fund!) https://www.KidBizInc.com?Halloween=3629

Stratford Landing Family Pets Challenge!

Stratford Landing Parents,

  Our School Business Boosters are sponsoring a Parents Connect challenge in October called "Family Petsapalooza" where parents can celebrate their furry friends by submitting pet photos.  (One lucky parent/pet from the participating schools will win a $100 Amazon gift card at the end of the month!)

 

 Visit https://www.KidBizInc.com?familyPets=3629 to nominate your pet and meet other Stratford Landing pets.

 

 And help us win the School Business Boosters Fall Parents Connect Challenge by nominating your pet and adding yourself to the "Meet the Parents" directory.  

 

 Every connected parent and/or pet helps us win the prize for having the most engaged Elementary parents, $250 for our Teacher Appreciation fund!

Family Life Education: Information and Preview Meeting

Students in grades K-6 participate in Family Life Education (FLE) instruction through their classroom teacher. For more information about the FCPS Family Life Education program, please see the detailed grade-level program descriptions at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-family-life-education-fle.

You are invited to attend an evening opportunity to preview the Family Life Education media and lessons and to talk with school staff about the program. The meeting will be held on October 23rd from 5:30 – 6:30pm via https://meet.google.com/och-bghe-zuj All program materials and media for all grade levels will be available for your review at this time.

Parents/guardians who do not wish to have their child participate in FLE instruction may choose to opt their child out of any or all of the lessons. If you would like to opt your child out of one or more lessons, please fill out the form provided to you in your child’s orientation packet at the beginning of the school year or you may access the opt out forms online at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-family-life-education-fle.

Immunizations- Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

Children go through a lot of changes, and it can be hard to tell if their behavior is developmentally appropriate or if they could benefit from mental health support. It’s important to talk to your child and pay attention to their actions, especially these warning signs:

• Increased irritability, hyperactivity, energy, and/or aggressive behavior.
• Excessive sadness, hopelessness, or worries.
• Loss of appetite, or significant weight gain or loss.
• Lack of sleep or too much sleep.
• A decline in grades, school avoidance, or attendance concerns.
• Alcohol or drug use.
• Withdrawal from activities and/or friends and family. 
• Thoughts of harming themselves or others.

If you notice any of these warning signs or feel your child may be experiencing a mental health challenge, help is available. Please contact [name], our [school psychologist, school counselor, or school social worker] at [phone/email], to discuss your concerns and identify resources. Find additional ways to support your child’s wellness. 

If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis such as thoughts of harming themselves or others, please take action right away. Call 988, go to the nearest emergency room, or contact the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Emergency Services at 703-573-5679.

 

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Monday, October 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School.

Events will take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

 

🎤 Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro: ¡Inscríbete hoy para asistir a una Conversación Comunitaria! 

La Superintendente, Dra. Michelle Reid, tendra una serie de Conversaciones Comunitarias este otoño. Ella le invita a compartir sus pensamientos y hacer preguntas. Haga clic en las fechas a continuación para inscribirse en cualquiera de las siguientes conversaciones:

• Lunes, 21 de octubre, en la Escuela Primaria de Virginia Run.
• Miércoles, 30 de octubre, en la Escuela Secundaria de Herndon.

Los eventos serán de 6:30 a 7:30 p.m. Habrá servicio de cuidado de niños e interpretación de idiomas.

 

We All Belong at School

Each one of us is unique, and every student matters. If your student is having a difficult time attending class, please speak with a trusted adult at school. 

Watch this video to see how everyone belongs at school. Visit our Attendance webpage for resources on attendance. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

 

🗓️ Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

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

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

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

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

• SPANISH:🗓️ Consejo para la asistencia: Programar viajes o eventos familiares

La buena asistencia es una habilidad importante para la vida que ayudará a los estudiantes a tener éxito en la escuela y más allá.

Cuando planee viajes o eventos familiares, refiérase al calendario de FCPS y trate de usar los fines de semana y días festivos de la escuela. Cada día de aprendizaje es un día hacia el éxito. Tenga en cuenta que las ausencias se suman rápidamente. Los estudiantes que faltan el 10% del año escolar (o sólo dos días al mes) se consideran ausentes crónicos.

Cuando sea posible, programe citas para su hijo fuera del horario escolar. Si su hijo tiene que faltar a clase por enfermedad u otro motivo, debe reportar la ausencia. 

Vea este vídeo con consejos para entender nuestro calendario escolar y visite nuestra página web de Asistencia para obtener información adicional. ¡Asista hoy, para tener exito mañana!

 

Gun Safety and Safe Gun Storage

Providing students and staff with a safe educational environment remains our priority. Sadly, gun violence continues to impact schools and communities across our nation.

In FCPS, lessons on gun safety are built into our curriculum. It is critical that parents and guardians talk to their children about the importance of gun safety and safe gun storage in their homes, and in any home they may visit. 

The FCPS website has gun safety resources as well as detailed information about safety and security practices at schools. See Dr. Reid’s recent letter to the community for more resources. 

Safely Store Firearms and Medications

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board has a limited supply of free locking medication boxes and trigger locks that fit a wide variety of firearms. Visit the Lock and Talk website to learn more.

Celebrating the Power of School Lunches

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

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

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

 

Celebrando el poder de los almuerzos escolares

Múltiples estudios demuestran que los almuerzos escolares son importantes para apoyar la salud general de los estudiantes al mejorar sus dietas y combatir la inseguridad alimentaria. Los estudiantes que comen almuerzos escolares consumen más frutas, vegetales, y fibra que sus compañeros. 

Esta Semana de Almuerzo Escolar, los Servicios de Alimentos y Nutrición (FNS) de FCPS les recuerda a las familias que están dedicados a proveer comidas sabrosas, saludables, sostenibles y enfocadas en los estudiantes. Nuevos artículos de menú han sido lanzados este año basado en la retroalimentación de los estudiantes. 

¿Quieres saber lo que hay para el desayuno o el almuerzo? Los Servicios de Nutrición ahora tienen menús para imprimir disponibles.

Programs Available in FCPS

Two NEW Early Literacy sites in the Mt. Vernon area are at Fort Belvoir Primary School and Sequoyah Community Center (both Wed./Fri. 10am-12pm).  Families can learn more about these and other opportunities through the brand new FCPS Family Academy

Family Events in the Community

Fall Harvest Festival

Celebrate Fall at Mount Vernon- Join us for a fall celebration featuring 18th century farming demonstrations. Special event showing: October 19th from 9:00am to 5:00pm and October 20th from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Explore the farm and more; please click on the link for more information Fall Harvest Festival | George Washington's Mount Vernon

Programs in the Community

LMVSC is a local non-profit that provides fun and affordable sports programs for kids in the community. Their registration for the winter basketball season is now open!

They also offer financial aid to ensure that every child has the chance to play, regardless of their financial situation. 

Please refer to the flyer for more details.

8484 Riverside Road Alexandria, Virginia 22308 | Main Office: 703-619-3600
Attendance: 703-619-3636 | Web | Twitter

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

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

Important Dates:

Oct 14          Staff Development Day- Student Holiday

Oct 14 –18   Digital Citizenship Week

Oct 16 –18   CogAT Testing

Oct 21          3-Hour Early Release Monday

Oct 23          Virtual FLE Parent Info Night 5:30 – 6:30 pm

Oct 24          Rock N Run Pep Rally 

Oct 25          Rock N Run Event 

Oct 26          SLES Trunk or Treat

Digital Citizenship Week

Next week is Digital Citizenship week throughout the county and we will be having Spirit Week SLES Style! 

Below are some helpful family tips in how we can be good digital citizens!

English

Spanish

More Languages

Make Screen Time Safe and Positive

Stratford Landing Family Pets Challenge!

Stratford Landing Parents,

  Our School Business Boosters are sponsoring a Parents Connect challenge in October called "Family Petsapalooza" where parents can celebrate their furry friends by submitting pet photos.  (One lucky parent/pet from the participating schools will win a $100 Amazon gift card at the end of the month!)

 

 Visit https://www.KidBizInc.com?familyPets=3629 to nominate your pet and meet other Stratford Landing pets.

 

 And help us win the School Business Boosters Fall Parents Connect Challenge by nominating your pet and adding yourself to the "Meet the Parents" directory.  

 

 Every connected parent and/or pet helps us win the prize for having the most engaged Elementary parents, $250 for our Teacher Appreciation fund!

Family Life Education: Information and Preview Meeting

Students in grades K-6 participate in Family Life Education (FLE) instruction through their classroom teacher. For more information about the FCPS Family Life Education program, please see the detailed grade-level program descriptions at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-family-life-education-fle.

You are invited to attend an evening opportunity to preview the Family Life Education media and lessons and to talk with school staff about the program. The meeting will be held on October 23rd from 5:30 – 6:30pm via https://meet.google.com/och-bghe-zuj All program materials and media for all grade levels will be available for your review at this time.

Parents/guardians who do not wish to have their child participate in FLE instruction may choose to opt their child out of any or all of the lessons. If you would like to opt your child out of one or more lessons, please fill out the form provided to you in your child’s orientation packet at the beginning of the school year or you may access the opt out forms online at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-family-life-education-fle.

Lexia Parent Night Information

Lexia will be offering Parent Nights throughout the 24-25 school year. More information regarding the Lexia Parent Nights can be found on Family Academy Site or on the translated fliers below.

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

Please contact Theresa Lieteau if you have any questions.

Students to Be Surveyed on Social-Emotional Learning

FCPS is committed to supporting the mental wellness of all students. The Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener helps our students share their perspectives on how their schools and communities support them and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.

The screener is offered to all students in grades 3 through 12 in the fall and spring. It addresses skills such as achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students. 

After each screening, results will be available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who don’t have a ParentVUE account. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

Families who wish to opt their child out may do so by completing the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or SIS ParentVUE. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact our front office. 

Please note that the SEL Screener is not the same as the anonymous Fairfax County Youth Survey, which will take place later this fall.

 

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

Children go through a lot of changes, and it can be hard to tell if their behavior is developmentally appropriate or if they could benefit from mental health support. It’s important to talk to your child and pay attention to their actions, especially these warning signs:

• Increased irritability, hyperactivity, energy, and/or aggressive behavior.
• Excessive sadness, hopelessness, or worries.
• Loss of appetite, or significant weight gain or loss.
• Lack of sleep or too much sleep.
• A decline in grades, school avoidance, or attendance concerns.
• Alcohol or drug use.
• Withdrawal from activities and/or friends and family. 
• Thoughts of harming themselves or others.

If you notice any of these warning signs or feel your child may be experiencing a mental health challenge, help is available. Please contact [name], our [school psychologist, school counselor, or school social worker] at [phone/email], to discuss your concerns and identify resources. Find additional ways to support your child’s wellness. 

If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis such as thoughts of harming themselves or others, please take action right away. Call 988, go to the nearest emergency room, or contact the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Emergency Services at 703-573-5679.

 

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Monday, October 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Fairhill Elementary School.
• Monday, October 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School.

Events will take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

 

🎤 Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro: ¡Inscríbete hoy para asistir a una Conversación Comunitaria! 

La Superintendente, Dra. Michelle Reid, tendra una serie de Conversaciones Comunitarias este otoño. Ella le invita a compartir sus pensamientos y hacer preguntas. Haga clic en las fechas a continuación para inscribirse en cualquiera de las siguientes conversaciones:

• Lunes, 14 de octubre, en la Escuela Primaria de Fairhill.
• Lunes, 21 de octubre, en la Escuela Primaria de Virginia Run.
• Miércoles, 30 de octubre, en la Escuela Secundaria de Herndon.

Los eventos serán de 6:30 a 7:30 p.m. Habrá servicio de cuidado de niños e interpretación de idiomas.

 

We All Belong at School

Each one of us is unique, and every student matters. If your student is having a difficult time attending class, please speak with a trusted adult at school. 

Watch this video to see how everyone belongs at school. Visit our Attendance webpage for resources on attendance. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

 

Strategic Plan

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

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

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

• SPANISH:✨ El Plan Estratégico 2023-30 - Meta 4: Acceso Equitativo a Oportunidades.El Plan Estratégico 2023-30 de FCPS establece cinco metas principales para crear un cambio positivo en la división. Estas metas muestran dónde debemos enfocar nuestra atención y nos ayudarán a alinear nuestros esfuerzos. 

La cuarta meta asegura que todos los estudiantes tengan el mismo acceso a oportunidades, sin importar a qué escuela asistan. Esto incluye programas académicos y de otro tipo que inspiren e involucren a los estudiantes y les permitan explorar sus pasiones y talentos. Vea cómo se está poniendo en práctica el Objetivo 4.

 

🗓️ Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

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

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

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

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

• SPANISH:🗓️ Consejo para la asistencia: Programar viajes o eventos familiares

La buena asistencia es una habilidad importante para la vida que ayudará a los estudiantes a tener éxito en la escuela y más allá.

Cuando planee viajes o eventos familiares, refiérase al calendario de FCPS y trate de usar los fines de semana y días festivos de la escuela. Cada día de aprendizaje es un día hacia el éxito. Tenga en cuenta que las ausencias se suman rápidamente. Los estudiantes que faltan el 10% del año escolar (o sólo dos días al mes) se consideran ausentes crónicos.

Cuando sea posible, programe citas para su hijo fuera del horario escolar. Si su hijo tiene que faltar a clase por enfermedad u otro motivo, debe reportar la ausencia. 

Vea este vídeo con consejos para entender nuestro calendario escolar y visite nuestra página web de Asistencia para obtener información adicional. ¡Asista hoy, para tener exito mañana!

 

Gun Safety and Safe Gun Storage

Providing students and staff with a safe educational environment remains our priority. Sadly, gun violence continues to impact schools and communities across our nation.

In FCPS, lessons on gun safety are built into our curriculum. It is critical that parents and guardians talk to their children about the importance of gun safety and safe gun storage in their homes, and in any home they may visit. 

The FCPS website has gun safety resources as well as detailed information about safety and security practices at schools. See Dr. Reid’s recent letter to the community for more resources. 

Safely Store Firearms and Medications

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board has a limited supply of free locking medication boxes and trigger locks that fit a wide variety of firearms. Visit the Lock and Talk website to learn more.

Programs Available in FCPS

Two NEW Early Literacy sites in the Mt. Vernon area are at Fort Belvoir Primary School and Sequoyah Community Center (both Wed./Fri. 10am-12pm).  Families can learn more about these and other opportunities through the brand new FCPS Family Academy

Family Events in the Community

Fall Harvest Festival

Celebrate Fall at Mount Vernon- Join us for a fall celebration featuring 18th century farming demonstrations. Special event showing: October 19th from 9:00am to 5:00pm and October 20th from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Explore the farm and more; please click on the link for more information Fall Harvest Festival | George Washington's Mount Vernon

Trunk or Treat 2024 

Any military families affiliated with Fort Belvoir are welcome to join!

8484 Riverside Road Alexandria, Virginia 22308 | Main Office: 703-619-3600
Attendance: 703-619-3636 | Web | Twitter

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

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

Message from Principal Morris

We are thrilled to share that our first FCPS Early Release Monday was a great success, and we couldn’t have done it without your support! Your cooperation made a significant difference, and we truly appreciate your help in making the day run smoothly.

As we look ahead, please use this SLES Google link to submit information for the remaining six Early Release Mondays of the school year. To assist the office in ensuring all students are accounted for, we kindly ask that parents submit only one response per child. Your recorded response will serve as the final decision for all upcoming Early Release Mondays.

We understand that plans can change, and updates may need to be had. Please ensure that changes are submitted by the Friday before each Early Release Monday. This will help ensure a smooth process for all students and staff on all Monday’s.  

Thank you again for your continued support. Together, we are making a positive impact!

Important Dates:

October 3: Religious/Cultural Observance: Rosh Hashanah- Student Holiday

October 4: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

October 14: Staff Development Day- Student Holiday

October 21: 3-Hour Early Release Monday

Observance of Rosh Hashanah

 Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year and we wanted to take a moment to acknowledge this special time of reflection, renewal, and hope for those in our school community who observe it. Rosh Hashanah is a time for family gatherings, introspection, and looking ahead to a year of new opportunities.

For those who would like to learn more about Rosh Hashanah, please click on the video link below.

What is Rosh Hashanah?

Message From Our Librarian Ms. Gresham

Check out our updated library Schoology site. There are links for you to request a book be added to our library collection, ask a librarian, or see some of awesome collection that has been spotlighted for Spanish Heritage Month.  There is even a link to check out the trout eggs just before they were added to our tank. Pictures will be updated as events warrant : )

Announcing the Stratford Landing Family Pets Challenge!

Stratford Landing Parents,

  Our School Business Boosters are sponsoring a Parents Connect challenge in October called "Family Petsapalooza" where parents can celebrate their furry friends by submitting pet photos.  (One lucky parent/pet from the participating schools will win a $100 Amazon gift card at the end of the month!)

 

 Visit https://www.KidBizInc.com?familyPets=3629 to nominate your pet and meet other Stratford Landing pets.

 

 And help us win the School Business Boosters Fall Parents Connect Challenge by nominating your pet and adding yourself to the "Meet the Parents" directory.  

 

 Every connected parent and/or pet helps us win the prize for having the most engaged Elementary parents, $250 for our Teacher Appreciation fund!

The SLES military support group will be holding the event below next Thursday! It would be wonderful if you are able to join us!

Military Families Get Together:
Date: Oct. 10th (Thur)
Time: right after dismissal @ SLES Playground

All military-connected families and those wishing to meet and support military families are welcome to join!

Also, if military-connected families would like to participate in our SLES Military Family Group, please fill out the form below.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeqKwuj4Tc7dFfziH6-ZOtiMG2cKrrreiEZCjK7ELybiKiTvQ/viewform

Family Life Education: Information and Preview Meeting

Students in grades K-6 participate in Family Life Education (FLE) instruction through their classroom teacher. For more information about the FCPS Family Life Education program, please see the detailed grade-level program descriptions at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-family-life-education-fle.

You are invited to attend an evening opportunity to preview the Family Life Education media and lessons and to talk with school staff about the program. The meeting will be held on October 23rd from 5:30 – 6:30pm via https://meet.google.com/och-bghe-zuj All program materials and media for all grade levels will be available for your review at this time.

Parents/guardians who do not wish to have their child participate in FLE instruction may choose to opt their child out of any or all of the lessons. If you would like to opt your child out of one or more lessons, please fill out the form provided to you in your child’s orientation packet at the beginning of the school year or you may access the opt out forms online at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-family-life-education-fle.

Join the Stratford Landing Parent & Guardian Advisory Council (PGAC)

 

Our first PGAC meeting will be held on

Monday, October 7 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm.

Use this form to join PGAC for the 24-25 school year If you were a previous member, please complete this form again.

What is PGAC?

The council will provide feedback and suggestions to the Stratford Landing Administration Team and advise them around problem solving and decision making. The SLES Administration Team will also share specific information with the council to help increase transparency, common language, and common understanding about school days at SLES.

We’ll have planned agendas and implement facilitation strategies to maximize our time together. We’ll be sure to allow time for families to fully voice their feedback. Meetings will be at most 2 per month. Meeting frequency may be determined by the need at a given time.

Attendance at all meetings wouldn’t be an expectation. Think about it as a recurring community meeting that you have the option to attend as frequently as you like. We’ll share agendas ahead of time, so you know what to expect before each meeting.

Join today! 

Lexia Parent Night Information

Lexia will be offering Parent Nights throughout the 24-25 school year. More information regarding the Lexia Parent Nights can be found on Family Academy Site or on the translated fliers below.

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

Please contact Theresa Lieteau if you have any questions.

Students to Be Surveyed on Social-Emotional Learning

FCPS is committed to supporting the mental wellness of all students. The Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener helps our students share their perspectives on how their schools and communities support them and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.

The screener is offered to all students in grades 3 through 12 in the fall and spring. It addresses skills such as achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students. 

After each screening, results will be available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who don’t have a ParentVUE account. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

Families who wish to opt their child out may do so by completing the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or SIS ParentVUE. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact our front office. 

Please note that the SEL Screener is not the same as the anonymous Fairfax County Youth Survey, which will take place later this fall.

 

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

Children go through a lot of changes, and it can be hard to tell if their behavior is developmentally appropriate or if they could benefit from mental health support. It’s important to talk to your child and pay attention to their actions, especially these warning signs:

• Increased irritability, hyperactivity, energy, and/or aggressive behavior.
• Excessive sadness, hopelessness, or worries.
• Loss of appetite, or significant weight gain or loss.
• Lack of sleep or too much sleep.
• A decline in grades, school avoidance, or attendance concerns.
• Alcohol or drug use.
• Withdrawal from activities and/or friends and family. 
• Thoughts of harming themselves or others.

If you notice any of these warning signs or feel your child may be experiencing a mental health challenge, help is available. Please contact [name], our [school psychologist, school counselor, or school social worker] at [phone/email], to discuss your concerns and identify resources. Find additional ways to support your child’s wellness. 

If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis such as thoughts of harming themselves or others, please take action right away. Call 988, go to the nearest emergency room, or contact the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Emergency Services at 703-573-5679.

 

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Monday, October 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Fairhill Elementary School.
• Monday, October 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School.

Events will take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

 

🎤 Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro: ¡Inscríbete hoy para asistir a una Conversación Comunitaria! 

La Superintendente, Dra. Michelle Reid, tendra una serie de Conversaciones Comunitarias este otoño. Ella le invita a compartir sus pensamientos y hacer preguntas. Haga clic en las fechas a continuación para inscribirse en cualquiera de las siguientes conversaciones:

• Lunes, 14 de octubre, en la Escuela Primaria de Fairhill.
• Lunes, 21 de octubre, en la Escuela Primaria de Virginia Run.
• Miércoles, 30 de octubre, en la Escuela Secundaria de Herndon.

Los eventos serán de 6:30 a 7:30 p.m. Habrá servicio de cuidado de niños e interpretación de idiomas.

 

We All Belong at School

Each one of us is unique, and every student matters. If your student is having a difficult time attending class, please speak with a trusted adult at school. 

Watch this video to see how everyone belongs at school. Visit our Attendance webpage for resources on attendance. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

 

Strategic Plan

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

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

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

• SPANISH:✨ El Plan Estratégico 2023-30 - Meta 4: Acceso Equitativo a Oportunidades.El Plan Estratégico 2023-30 de FCPS establece cinco metas principales para crear un cambio positivo en la división. Estas metas muestran dónde debemos enfocar nuestra atención y nos ayudarán a alinear nuestros esfuerzos. 

La cuarta meta asegura que todos los estudiantes tengan el mismo acceso a oportunidades, sin importar a qué escuela asistan. Esto incluye programas académicos y de otro tipo que inspiren e involucren a los estudiantes y les permitan explorar sus pasiones y talentos. Vea cómo se está poniendo en práctica el Objetivo 4.

 

🗓️ Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

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

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

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

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

• SPANISH:🗓️ Consejo para la asistencia: Programar viajes o eventos familiares

La buena asistencia es una habilidad importante para la vida que ayudará a los estudiantes a tener éxito en la escuela y más allá.

Cuando planee viajes o eventos familiares, refiérase al calendario de FCPS y trate de usar los fines de semana y días festivos de la escuela. Cada día de aprendizaje es un día hacia el éxito. Tenga en cuenta que las ausencias se suman rápidamente. Los estudiantes que faltan el 10% del año escolar (o sólo dos días al mes) se consideran ausentes crónicos.

Cuando sea posible, programe citas para su hijo fuera del horario escolar. Si su hijo tiene que faltar a clase por enfermedad u otro motivo, debe reportar la ausencia. 

Vea este vídeo con consejos para entender nuestro calendario escolar y visite nuestra página web de Asistencia para obtener información adicional. ¡Asista hoy, para tener exito mañana!

 

Gun Safety and Safe Gun Storage

Providing students and staff with a safe educational environment remains our priority. Sadly, gun violence continues to impact schools and communities across our nation.

In FCPS, lessons on gun safety are built into our curriculum. It is critical that parents and guardians talk to their children about the importance of gun safety and safe gun storage in their homes, and in any home they may visit. 

The FCPS website has gun safety resources as well as detailed information about safety and security practices at schools. See Dr. Reid’s recent letter to the community for more resources. 

Safely Store Firearms and Medications

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board has a limited supply of free locking medication boxes and trigger locks that fit a wide variety of firearms. Visit the Lock and Talk website to learn more.

Parent Project Workshops

The Family Resource Center is offering a 10-week course designed to empower families with transforming teens. In taking this course, you will walk away with tools to learn how to build a positive relationship with your child, ways to prevent or intervene in alcohol and drug use, disruptive behavior at home and gang affiliation, and ways to explore concrete solutions for active supervision.

Classes are free, once a week and 2 hours each class.

Please read the flyers below for more details.

Other Programs Available in FCPS

8484 Riverside Road Alexandria, Virginia 22308 | Main Office: 703-619-3600
Attendance: 703-619-3636 | Web | Twitter

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

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

Important Dates:

October 3: Religious/Cultural Observance: Rosh Hashanah- Student Holiday

October 4: Teacher Workday- Student Holiday

October 14: Staff Development Day- Student Holiday

October 21: 3-Hour Early Release Monday

Family Life Education: Information and Preview Meeting

Students in grades K-6 participate in Family Life Education (FLE) instruction through their classroom teacher. For more information about the FCPS Family Life Education program, please see the detailed grade-level program descriptions at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-family-life-education-fle.

You are invited to attend an evening opportunity to preview the Family Life Education media and lessons and to talk with school staff about the program. The meeting will be held on October 23rd from 5:30 – 6:30pm via https://meet.google.com/och-bghe-zuj All program materials and media for all grade levels will be available for your review at this time.

Parents/guardians who do not wish to have their child participate in FLE instruction may choose to opt their child out of any or all of the lessons. If you would like to opt your child out of one or more lessons, please fill out the form provided to you in your child’s orientation packet at the beginning of the school year or you may access the opt out forms online at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/elementary-family-life-education-fle.

Hello From Your Family Liaison

Hello SLES Families! My name is Haruka Hopp and I am your Family Liaison. 

As family liaison, I will try my best to connect you to the support and resources you need so that your student can thrive at SLES. Our Family Resource Center provides food, school supplies, clothing items, along with support with completing school forms, parent workshops, and connecting you to resources and programs we have in the school and community! I look forward to supporting you all!

Join the Stratford Landing Parent & Guardian Advisory Council (PGAC)

 

Our first PGAC meeting will be held on

Monday, October 7 from 6:30 – 8:00 pm.

Use this form to join PGAC for the 24-25 school year If you were a previous member, please complete this form again.

What is PGAC?

The council will provide feedback and suggestions to the Stratford Landing Administration Team and advise them around problem solving and decision making. The SLES Administration Team will also share specific information with the council to help increase transparency, common language, and common understanding about school days at SLES.

We’ll have planned agendas and implement facilitation strategies to maximize our time together. We’ll be sure to allow time for families to fully voice their feedback. Meetings will be at most 2 per month. Meeting frequency may be determined by the need at a given time.

Attendance at all meetings wouldn’t be an expectation. Think about it as a recurring community meeting that you have the option to attend as frequently as you like. We’ll share agendas ahead of time, so you know what to expect before each meeting.

Join today! 

Lexia Parent Night Information

Lexia will be offering Parent Nights throughout the 24-25 school year. More information regarding the Lexia Parent Nights can be found on Family Academy Site or on the translated fliers below.

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

Please contact Theresa Lieteau if you have any questions.

Students to Be Surveyed on Social-Emotional Learning

FCPS is committed to supporting the mental wellness of all students. The Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener helps our students share their perspectives on how their schools and communities support them and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.

The screener is offered to all students in grades 3 through 12 in the fall and spring. It addresses skills such as achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students. 

After each screening, results will be available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who don’t have a ParentVUE account. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

Families who wish to opt their child out may do so by completing the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or SIS ParentVUE. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact our front office. 

Please note that the SEL Screener is not the same as the anonymous Fairfax County Youth Survey, which will take place later this fall.

 

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

Children go through a lot of changes, and it can be hard to tell if their behavior is developmentally appropriate or if they could benefit from mental health support. It’s important to talk to your child and pay attention to their actions, especially these warning signs:

• Increased irritability, hyperactivity, energy, and/or aggressive behavior.
• Excessive sadness, hopelessness, or worries.
• Loss of appetite, or significant weight gain or loss.
• Lack of sleep or too much sleep.
• A decline in grades, school avoidance, or attendance concerns.
• Alcohol or drug use.
• Withdrawal from activities and/or friends and family. 
• Thoughts of harming themselves or others.

If you notice any of these warning signs or feel your child may be experiencing a mental health challenge, help is available. Please contact [name], our [school psychologist, school counselor, or school social worker] at [phone/email], to discuss your concerns and identify resources. Find additional ways to support your child’s wellness. 

If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis such as thoughts of harming themselves or others, please take action right away. Call 988, go to the nearest emergency room, or contact the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Emergency Services at 703-573-5679.

 

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Monday, September 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School.
• Monday, October 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Fairhill Elementary School.
• Monday, October 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School.

Events will take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

🎤 Nuestras Escuelas, Nuestro Futuro: ¡Inscríbete hoy para asistir a una Conversación Comunitaria! 

La Superintendente, Dra. Michelle Reid, tendra una serie de Conversaciones Comunitarias este otoño. Ella le invita a compartir sus pensamientos y hacer preguntas. Haga clic en las fechas a continuación para inscribirse en cualquiera de las siguientes conversaciones:

• Lunes, 30 de septiembre, en la Escuela Primaria de Mount Vernon Woods.
• Lunes, 14 de octubre, en la Escuela Primaria de Fairhill.
• Lunes, 21 de octubre, en la Escuela Primaria de Virginia Run.
• Miércoles, 30 de octubre, en la Escuela Secundaria de Herndon.

Los eventos serán de 6:30 a 7:30 p.m. Habrá servicio de cuidado de niños e interpretación de idiomas.

 

We All Belong at School

Each one of us is unique, and every student matters. If your student is having a difficult time attending class, please speak with a trusted adult at school. 

Watch this video to see how everyone belongs at school. Visit our Attendance webpage for resources on attendance. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

 

Strategic Plan

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

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

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

• SPANISH:✨ El Plan Estratégico 2023-30 - Meta 4: Acceso Equitativo a Oportunidades.El Plan Estratégico 2023-30 de FCPS establece cinco metas principales para crear un cambio positivo en la división. Estas metas muestran dónde debemos enfocar nuestra atención y nos ayudarán a alinear nuestros esfuerzos. 

La cuarta meta asegura que todos los estudiantes tengan el mismo acceso a oportunidades, sin importar a qué escuela asistan. Esto incluye programas académicos y de otro tipo que inspiren e involucren a los estudiantes y les permitan explorar sus pasiones y talentos. Vea cómo se está poniendo en práctica el Objetivo 4.

 

🗓️ Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

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

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

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

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

• SPANISH:🗓️ Consejo para la asistencia: Programar viajes o eventos familiares

La buena asistencia es una habilidad importante para la vida que ayudará a los estudiantes a tener éxito en la escuela y más allá.

Cuando planee viajes o eventos familiares, refiérase al calendario de FCPS y trate de usar los fines de semana y días festivos de la escuela. Cada día de aprendizaje es un día hacia el éxito. Tenga en cuenta que las ausencias se suman rápidamente. Los estudiantes que faltan el 10% del año escolar (o sólo dos días al mes) se consideran ausentes crónicos.

Cuando sea posible, programe citas para su hijo fuera del horario escolar. Si su hijo tiene que faltar a clase por enfermedad u otro motivo, debe reportar la ausencia. 

Vea este vídeo con consejos para entender nuestro calendario escolar y visite nuestra página web de Asistencia para obtener información adicional. ¡Asista hoy, para tener exito mañana!

 

Gun Safety and Safe Gun Storage

Providing students and staff with a safe educational environment remains our priority. Sadly, gun violence continues to impact schools and communities across our nation.

In FCPS, lessons on gun safety are built into our curriculum. It is critical that parents and guardians talk to their children about the importance of gun safety and safe gun storage in their homes, and in any home they may visit. 

The FCPS website has gun safety resources as well as detailed information about safety and security practices at schools. See Dr. Reid’s recent letter to the community for more resources. 

Safely Store Firearms and Medications

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board has a limited supply of free locking medication boxes and trigger locks that fit a wide variety of firearms. Visit the Lock and Talk website to learn more.

Parent Project Workshops

The Family Resource Center is offering a 10-week course designed to empower families with transforming teens. In taking this course, you will walk away with tools to learn how to build a positive relationship with your child, ways to prevent or intervene in alcohol and drug use, disruptive behavior at home and gang affiliation, and ways to explore concrete solutions for active supervision.

Classes are free, once a week and 2 hours each class.

Please read the flyers below for more details.

8484 Riverside Road Alexandria, Virginia 22308 | Main Office: 703-619-3600
Attendance: 703-619-3636 | Web | Twitter

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Advanced Academic Program (AAP) Parent Information Night Wednesday, September 25 

 

AAP General Information Meeting

This general AAP overview parent information meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 25 in Stratford Landing’s cafeteria from 6:00-6:45 pm. The AARTs will provide information about the continuum of services, explain the screening process and answer questions about advanced academic services for interested K-6 parents. Information will also be provided for new families (new to FCPS since 1/24).

 

Full-Time Referral Process Information Meeting

This meeting is geared to parents who are interested in referring their 2nd-6th grade children to the Full-Time AAP.  This meeting will also be held on Wednesday, September 25 at 6:45-7:30 pm in Stratford Landing’s Cafeteria. The AART will provide information about Full-Time AAP services, explain the Full-Time screening process for 2nd-6th grade parents and answer questions.

Monitoring and Reporting COVID-19 Positive Cases

We ask our families remain diligent about reporting  COVID-19 positive cases (confirmed by a health care provider or a COVID-19 home testing kit) to our school via the attendance line. When reporting an absence related to COVID-19, be sure to share the following:

• When did your child begin showing symptoms?
• What are your child’s symptoms?
• When did your child test positive?

Thank you all for your support in keeping our school a healthy and safe learning environment!

Parent/Caregiver Checklist: Have You Completed These Important Forms?

We understand that the multiple school forms caregivers receive during the first weeks of school can feel overwhelming, but each one helps set your child up for a successful school year! If you do not have a SIS ParentVUE account, please contact the front office for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage. 

🩹 Immunization Requirements 

Please check with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to [SCHOOL NAME] front office. 

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:  

• A healthcare provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
• A healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
• A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations. 

📋 Permission Forms

Families can easily grant permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. Parents can opt their child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. They can also change how student information is managed. Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. See how to use the tool. 

Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)

The SR&R document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when logging in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage. This form should be signed and returned by Monday, September 30.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Fairfax County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. 

The next event is scheduled for Monday, September 23, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Newington Forest Elementary School. Click on the date to register. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

When a Student Should Stay Home From School

Whether students miss school because of illness or any other reason, missing school leads to learning loss.

Help your child succeed by encouraging them to attend as many days as possible, but do make sure your child stays home if they are sick. Visit FCPS’ website for information on when to keep your child at home.

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify their teacher so that support can be provided if needed. Also, keep an open line of communication with your school's public health staff.

Read about how families can help form good attendance habits. Attend today, achieve tomorrow! 

8484 Riverside Road Alexandria, Virginia 22308 | Main Office: 703-619-3600
Attendance: 703-619-3636 | Web | Twitter