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Great Falls ES Families,

We hope everyone had a wonderful Veterans’ Day on Monday. To all the Veterans who have served, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your service and the sacrifices you have made to keep us safe. To commemorate the day, we showcased this beautiful slideshow featuring community and family Veteran submissions on our morning news and in the front lobby.

Our students also read America’s White Table by Margot Theis Raven, and we set up a white table in the foyer as a solemn tribute. This symbolic table honors the courage and sacrifice of our Veterans, representing the absence of fallen heroes and our enduring hope for the safe return of those still missing.

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

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

Ms. Merna's New Adventure:
Today is Merna Shenouda's last day with us in our front office.  Ms. Merna has been a part of our office staff since 2022.  During her time, she has been a familiar and supportive staff member for our students, helping out our community in so many ways from support in the classroom to helping our kiddos in the nurse's office.  This past May, Merna graduated from GMU with a degree in social work, and it's time for her to start her career of choice🎉  We will miss her greatly we also want to congratulate her on her new role as a Fairfax County Government Employee in which she will be performing duties tied to her areas of study.

Have a lovely weekend,

Sara

📅Upcoming Dates

Nov. 27 - 29:  No School - Thanksgiving Break
Dec. 4:  Federal Impact Aid Surveys Due submit via SIS ParentVUE 
Dec. 5 - Diversity Showcase from 6-8pm, "Celebrating the World: A Tapestry of Holidays and Traditions"
Dec 9: 3-hour Early Release Monday
Dec 20 - Jan 6:  Winter Break

Click here to read GFES PTA newsletter updates.
Click here for the FCPS school year calendar.

⏲Early Release Monday on December 9

Our next 3-hour early release will take place on December 9. We are asking one final time this school year for you to please complete a survey to let us know if your child will dismiss at 12:30 the way they would normally leave (bus, kiss and ride/walker, or SACC) or if you have a need for childcare and they will remain with us until 3:30. 

• NEW THIS TIME: To help ease the process of collecting and verifying this information, we have developed a new form and accompanying website where you can check your child’s information. Please complete one form per child–you will need your child’s student ID. We will message these out to make sure you have them at hand. Then, use this URL to check that your submission recorded properly: https://tinyurl.com/GFESEarlyMondays.
• MOVING FORWARD: For future early release dates, you will only need to submit a form if you need to make a change. We will send out a reminder to check your submission and make changes as needed.
• CLOSING DATE: As with last time, the last day to make changes will be the Wednesday before the early release (December 4). This allows us time to make staffing and scheduling plans. If there is an emergency that necessitates a change, please call the front office.

🌟M.A.R.K. Model Students

We are proud to share that the following students were nominated for recognition by staff members for being on their M.A.R.K.:

• Race H. is consistently on his M.A.R.K., following directions, working hard, and helping his peers!
• Rustam H was responsible when he cleaned up the classroom and helped his friends.
• Nathan L is consistently kind, working to make his MARK each day!
• Gus G was mindful and kind when he took the time to check in on another student, despite not feeling well himself.
• Sebastian G was responsible and kind when helped younger members of his Roadrunner Family formulate goals and engaged them in polite conversation 
• Annie B was also responsible and kind during Roadrunner Families, engaging a nervous kindergarten student and helping them feel comfortable!
• Isaac L is a responsible student, being a great listener and active participant in his Roadrunner Family
• Abby H was also responsible and kind, helping a kindergartener in her Roadrunner Family think about a good goal to become a better communicator.
• Anika A is a mindful and kind student; she’s always positive, shares her ideas, and helps younger students when they need it!

❗Community Reminder

For the safety and security of Great Falls Elementary School students, we ask that community members refrain from accessing school grounds during the school day for recreational use.  Additionally, pets are never permitted on school property. This includes areas such as playgrounds, sports fields, and parking lots. All visitors must check in at the front office and follow proper sign-in procedures. We also ask that you remind your neighbors of this policy to help ensure a secure environment for everyone.

School security or local law enforcement may be called if there are any concerns or non-compliance with this policy. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe and secure campus for our students and staff. Thank you for your understanding and support!

🎭Cooper MS Elsewhere Performance 

Our local middle school is excited to present a special matinee performance of Elsewhere on Saturday, November 23rd from 2 PM - 4PM! This captivating production is perfect for the whole family, and elementary school students can attend for free with a pass! After the show, there’s a fun opportunity for students to join the cast and crew for a pizza party! It’s a great chance to meet the performers and celebrate the show together. If interested in attending, simply complete the Google Form by clicking here to claim your free pass.

Don’t miss out on this exciting event and the chance to support our talented middle school performers!

📍IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair

Parents/caregivers, school staff, and students over the age of 14 are invited to attend an interactive event celebrating the individualized education program (IEP) process. The IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair will take place on Saturday, November 16, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at Jackson Middle School. 

The event is sponsored by Fairfax County Special Education Parent Teacher Association (SEPTA). Activities include simulated IEP meetings, break-out sessions on the various parts of an IEP, and a resource fair to learn more about community supports. Register in advance. 

🎧Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students

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

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

👨‍🏫Tutoring Resources for Families

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

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

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

701 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066  |  Phone: 703.757.2100

Attendance: 703.757.2111 or [email protected]

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We're proud to earn our Purple Star!

We’re thrilled to announce that Great Falls ES has been awarded the prestigious Purple Star designation! This honor recognizes our commitment to supporting military-connected students and families, ensuring they feel welcomed and valued in our school and community.

The Purple Star designation reflects our ongoing efforts to provide exceptional resources, programs, and guidance tailored to the needs of our military families. You can read more about this achievement and what it means for our school by visiting FCPS Distinguished Purple Star Schools.

Stay tuned over the next few weeks to hear about the fun and educational activities planned for our students to celebrate and learn more about this wonderful honor ⭐

701 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066  |  Phone: 703.757.2100

Attendance: 703.757.2111 or [email protected]

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Dear Great Falls ES Families,

Happy November! As we enter this month of gratitude, I want to express our thanks for the support of our PTA and school community.  Our fall festival continues to be one of the very best events the PTA hosts, and it was lovely to see everyone in their costumes enjoying fun, food, and togetherness. 

Over the past two days, our staff has been busy completing conferences and progress reports to communicate students’ first-quarter progress.

Reminders:

• Progress Reports will be available on ParentVue on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024.
• Note: A progress report reflects learning at a point in time, not an average over the period.
• With our new Benchmark curriculum, skills are taught and reinforced each quarter, so language arts grades may look different than they have in the past. Students are not expected to have mastered skills by the first quarter, so you may not see “4s” yet.  A “4” represents a high level of achievement, showing a strong understanding of all skills taught for that standard during the quarter (please see visual example below). Teachers base grades on the most recent assessment data to reflect current learning.

• An 'nt' mark indicates a concept wasn’t taught that quarter, while 'na' means a standard wasn’t assessed summatively. All skills are expected to be taught and assessed over the year unless noted otherwise, except for students who join later or have extended absences.
• You can read more on the FCPS website.

As always, thank you for your support of all things Great Falls ES, and we look forward to seeing our students tomorrow!

Sincerely,
Sara Harper

Upcoming Dates

Nov. 4 & 5: Teacher Workdays (Parent-Teacher Conferences)
Nov. 6:  Last day to nominate a staff member for FCPS Awards
Nov. 8:  Impact Aid Forms Due 
Nov. 8: PTA Reflections Submission Deadline
Nov. 8: Spirit Day at Chick-Fil-A
Nov. 11: No School - Veterans' Day
Nov. 12:  Progress Reports accessible via ParentVue
Nov. 13: Orientation for Art Enrichment Session 2
Nov. 13: PTA General Meeting
Nov. 27 - 29:  No School - Thanksgiving Break  

Click here to read GFES PTA newsletter updates.
Click here for the FCPS school year calendar.

🏆M.A.R.K. Model Students

The students below are the latest group to be recognized for exhibiting one or more of the four core tenets of M.A.R.K.: Mindful, Accountable, Responsible, and Kind. We are so proud of them and grateful to have them as part of our Roadrunner community!

• Fiona C was recognized for being kind and polite, always expressing gratitude!
• Ava L is always on her MARK, holding herself to high standards.
• Michael H is a responsible student, volunteering to help a teacher finish a special project
• Ella J is consistently on her MARK, a wonderful model for other students in the classroom!
• Taylor S is also always on her MARK, going above and beyond as a patrol for kindergarteners.
• Emily M demonstrates kindness to classmates and teachers. Her teacher doesn’t know what they’d do without her!
• Ethan E is on his MARK, helping his classmates feel welcome and invited at lunch and play time.
• Livy W was nominated for being kind, making sure a lost jacket made it back to its owner.
• Emma H was caught being mindful and kind; she noticed a classmate feeling left out and invited them to a special lunch bunch.
• Weijing Z is a model of responsibility, using his time wisely and often volunteering to help other students, especially with technology.

💜Heroes in Our Families - Honoring Our Veterans 

In honor of Veteran’s Day, we will host a Great Falls Elementary Heroes in Our Families series on our daily news show from November 12th - 15th.

This series will honor and remember our school community’s veterans and active military members. 

If you and your child wish to honor an immediate family member who is a veteran, we ask that you complete this Google form sharing specifics about them.

All submissions should be completed by Friday, November 8th. In addition to submitting the Google form, please email a digital copy of a photo of your veteran to Taleah Mizell at [email protected]. 

 📸Extra Fall Picture Ordering

Did you miss out on ordering your child's fall pictures? Strawbridge’s new Lookup Tool is here to help. Simply go to www.strawbridge.net/code-lookup/  and follow the instructions below.

1. Type "Great Falls Elementary" into the search box.
2. Select your state.
3. Click "Search."
4. Choose "Great Falls Elementary" from the list provided.
5. Select "Get Code" next to the picture day you need the code for.
6. Enter your child’s last name and Student ID number, then click "Search."
7. Click on the Student Code to access your student’s image gallery!

No need to contact Customer Service for an access code! However, if at any time you have questions about the Lookup Tool or are having difficulty navigating the site, you can still reach out to Strawbridge Customer Service team via the Live Chat on their website, www.strawbridge.net. Just have your student’s information ready for data security. Don’t miss this chance to capture those special moments!

Yearbook Ordering📸📚

Our 2024-2025 yearbook is now available for purchase! Don’t miss out on this opportunity — click here to buy your yearbook today and capture this year’s special moments for just $20! The deadline for ordering is March 21st, 2025, so be sure to secure your copy!

Reminder: Impact Aid Forms Due November 8

Thank you to all who have completed the Federal Impact Aid Survey.  If you have not already done so, please complete the form via ParentVUE, under "Online Packets". ** Note: only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

Please note, 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.

Advanced Academic Full-Time Referral Deadline

The winter referral deadline for full-time advanced academic referral forms is December 15, 2024.  More information and referral forms can be found here. Please contact Amy Keefer, AART, at [email protected] with  questions.

Family Learning Series Teen Series: Building Resilience: Helping Teens Develop Coping Skills and Emotional Intelligence

Join us for a series of insightful sessions focusing on the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social aspects of teen development. Learn strategies to support resilience, mental health, and healthy boundaries, fostering a nurturing environment for adolescents to thrive. Presented by Beth Mohaupt, FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist

November 16, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register online

 

Starting The Conversation About Drugs: A Webinar for Families

Drugs and drug prevention have become increasingly important topics in recent years. Are you unsure about how to approach the topic of drugs with your child? Join us to learn how to navigate this importance discussion with confidence and ease! Presented by Beth Mohaupt, FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist

November 22, 2024 10-11:30 a.m.

Register online

701 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066  |  Phone: 703.757.2100

Attendance: 703.757.2111 or [email protected]

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Dear Great Falls ES Families,

Hello families! October is in full swing, and we’re excited to share the latest news, events, and highlights from our school community.  

Our next three-hour early release Monday is October 28th at 12:25 pm, and we need your help.  We currently need dismissal information for 268 students.  Please take a second to complete this form to let us know your child's after-school plans.  Please also note that all students must have a completed form even if they go to SACC.

Additionally, we kindly ask that you refrain from submitting any early release Monday Change of Transportation requests.  We want to ensure all our students get home safely, as planned, on Monday. Your cooperation is needed so your family's plan is clear and consistent. 

Thank you for your support,

Sara Harper
Principal

Upcoming Dates

Oct. 21 - Oct. 25:  PTA winter coat drive
Oct. 25:  Purchase your child's yearbook!
Oct. 28: Early Release Monday
Oct 31:  Character Spirit Day (no scary costumes, masks or weapons)
Oct. 31: Quarter 1 Ends and 2 hour release (1:35)
Nov. 1:  No School - Diwali
Nov. 4 & 5: Teacher Workdays (Parent-Teacher Conferences)
Nov. 6:  Last day to nominate a staff member for FCPS Awards
Nov. 11: No School - Veterans' Day
Nov. 27 - 29:  No School - Thanksgiving Break  

🎓Language Arts Grading and Curriculum Updates

With the introduction of the new language arts curriculum, progress reports this year might look different than in the past. 

With our new Benchmark curriculum, rather than teach discreet skills each quarter, every skill is taught every quarter and continually reinforced and built upon. Students are not expected to have mastered any skill by the end of first quarter. Because it is the first quarter and most skills have just been introduced, you will likely not see any 4s on a first quarter report card in language arts. This does not necessarily mean your child needs extra support in that area, just that we have only begun to practice the skill.

Likewise, please also remember that a "progress report" is different than a traditional report card and progress is what students know at a point in time rather than an average of performance over an entire period.

You can read more on the FCPS website.

📢Students on their M.A.R.K.

We've started a new recognition program for students who model one or more of the four core tenets of M.A.R.K.: Mindful, Accountable, Responsible, and Kind. When we receive a nomination from a staff member, we send home a certificate and recognize students on the school news every other Friday. The following students have been nominated for their positive contributions to our school community:

• Zeina L.P. was recognized for being kind and responsible. She's always ready to work hard and help her classmates!
• Olivia S was recognized for being responsible and kind by helping a younger student who lost a tooth in the kiss and ride line.
• Livinia U. was recognized for being kind and always polite to her classmates.
• Ella J. was recognized for being consistently on her M.A.R.K.! Her teachers report using her as a model for classroom expectations.
• Michael H. was recognized for being kind and lending a helping hand whenever it is needed!
• Ava L. is consistently on her M.A.R.K., holding herself to high standards and always showing respect to her teachers and classmates.
• Fiona C. was recognized for modeling kindness by always showing gratitude to staff and students.
• Sullivan R. was recognized for being responsible and showing ownership of his learning.
• Quinn R. was recognized for sharing her big heart by checking on a kindergartener having a tough day at recess and extending an open-ended invitation to come by and play with her.

We are so proud of these Roadrunners and cannot wait to spotlight more students in the next newsletter!

Storybook Character Day 🏆FCPS Excellence Awards🏆

Do you know someone who goes above and beyond at our school?

Now’s your chance to celebrate them! Whether you’re a student, parent, teacher, staff member, or part of our community, you can nominate an outstanding candidate. Just fill out the Google form linked HERE and recognize their incredible contributions!

You can nominate one exceptional employee per category or recognize multiple individuals across categories! We only need a paragraph or two explaining how the nominee exemplifies outstanding work based on the award criteria. The form provides more details about each award.

Award Categories & Eligibility

Outstanding Teacher
Has 3+ years of experience as a teacher (any school/district). Librarians are also eligible.

Outstanding New Teacher
Has up to 3 years of experience as a teacher (any school/district). Librarians are included.

Outstanding Principal
Has 3+ years of experience as a building principal (any school/district).

Outstanding Leader
At least 1 year of experience as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (excluding the principal). Examples: Assistant/Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities/Services.

Outstanding Professional Employee
At least 1 year of experience as a Schedule-B or non-instructional employee supporting school leadership. Examples: School-Based Technology Specialist, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor.

Outstanding Operational Employee
At least 1 year of experience as a Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee. Examples: Administrative/Office Staff, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, Instructional Assistants.

🗓️ Deadline for submissions: Wednesday, November 6th, 2024. 

If you have any questions, contact Jennifer Roberts,
[email protected] for more information.

Let’s show some love for the incredible people who make Great Falls Elementary School shine! 🌟

🎨📚Yearbook Cover Contest 

Just a reminder - our annual Yearbook Cover Contest kicked off on Tuesday, October 1st! This is a fantastic opportunity for students to showcase their artistic talents and design a unique cover for this year’s yearbook, which our staff will vote on.

Each entry must be created on an 8½” x 11” piece of paper. Entries must also include the school name and year prominently featured, as well as the student’s and their teacher’s name written lightly on the back. 

Feel free to use any coloring medium you like — markers, colored pencils, paints, watercolors, or crayons. Remember, the brighter and bolder the design, the better! Keep in mind that only student artwork will be accepted. Once artwork is complete, please submit it to Mrs. Mizell by Friday, October 25th. 

📸📚Yearbook & Picture Purchasing 

Our 2024-2025 yearbook is now available for purchase! Don’t miss out on this opportunity — click here to buy your yearbook today and capture this year’s special moments for just $20! The deadline for ordering is March 21st, 2025, so be sure to secure your copy!

And if you haven’t ordered your Fall Pictures yet, there’s still time!  Head to www.strawbridge.net and enter the code: FM453631 to purchase your photo package. 

📖Virginia Language and Literacy Screening System (VALLSS) Reports 

This fall, all students in grades K-2 and some students in grade 3 were assessed using a new screener, VALLSS. Be on the lookout for a report detailing information about the screener and your child’s score. 

• For families with SIS Parentvue accounts, this will be available October 25 in the documents section.
• If you have not yet set up your ParentVue, we will send home a paper copy of the score report the following week. If you need assistance setting up your account, please email Jen Roberts.

If you have questions about the contents of these reports, please reach out to your child’s teacher for further insight.

🧥🧤🧣 PTA Sponsored Winter Coat Drive:
October 21 – 25, 2024 

The GFES Winter Coat Drive starts next week! We are collecting new and gently used clean coats, as well as new hats, gloves, mittens, and scarves in all sizes for children and adults.  The greatest need this year is for children’s coats, newborn – teen sizes, and very large women’s and men’s coats 2XL+.  All donations will be distributed at the Embry Rucker Shelter and the Hunter Mill District Coat Closet.  Donations will be collected from Monday, October 21 – Friday, October 25.  The collection boxes will be located outside the main entrance to the school and in the main lobby.  Help those in need this winter by giving the gift of warmth.  Every donation makes a difference! Thank you for your generous support.  

 💻Digital Citizenship Week

This week, we celebrated Digital Citizenship Week! Each morning on the news, we talked about ways to be safe and responsible when going online. Consider continuing the conversation at home using resources on our FCPS website or from Common Sense Media.

👀Lost and Found 

We have an overwhelming amount of lost and found items accumulating in our school! From jackets and lunchboxes to water bottles and hats, many belongings are waiting to be claimed.

From Monday, October 21st until Friday, October 25th, all the lost and found items will be in our school vestibule. Parents are welcome to come and browse the items to pick up anything that belongs to their child. Any unclaimed items on Friday, October 25th, will be donated to Embry Rucker with the items from our Winter Coat Drive or to The Closet in Herndon, so don’t miss your chance to recover lost treasures!

🍴Food Reminders at Lunch 

As we continue to foster a safe and inclusive environment at our school, we’d like to remind everyone of our policy regarding food sharing during lunch visits. While we love the spirit of celebration, especially for birthdays, we kindly ask that parents refrain from sharing any food items with students who are not their own.

This policy helps us maintain food safety standards and ensures that we respect all dietary restrictions and allergies. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in making lunchtime enjoyable and safe for all our students!

Celebrating Hindu Heritage Month  

October marks Hindu Heritage Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the rich cultural, spiritual, and historical contributions of Hindu communities around the world. This month is an opportunity for education, reflection, and appreciation of the diverse traditions that have shaped the lives of millions.

Hinduism is one of the oldest religions, with roots tracing back over 4,000 years. It encompasses a wide range of beliefs, practices, and philosophies. Core concepts include Dharma (duty/righteousness), Karma (action and consequence), and Moksha (liberation). Festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Navratri showcase the vibrant traditions, celebrations, and community spirit within Hindu culture. Hindu heritage has significantly influenced art, music, dance, and literature. 

Hindu Heritage Month promotes inclusivity and understanding. To learn more, please visit this resource! It is a reminder of the importance of cultural diversity and the shared values that unite us. Let’s celebrate together, appreciating the beauty of Hindu traditions and the contributions of Hindu communities to our society.

The Fairfax County Youth Survey

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

Great Falls Elementary School will be administering the Fairfax County Youth Survey to the 6th grade students on November 14, 2024 at 10:00am.

While it is our hope that as many students as possible will participate, if you do not wish for your child to take part in the Youth Survey, please complete the form linked here and return it to your child's school counselor no later than November 8, 2024. If you have already opted your child out of this survey using the Parental Digital Consent Portal you do not need to provide additional information to the school counselor.

701 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066  |  Phone: 703.757.2100

Attendance: 703.757.2111 or [email protected]

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Fall Community Flyer Distribution 

As outlined by FCPS Regulation 1367.2, school principals shall offer options to nonprofit organizations that want to make their materials available to students and parents. Please see the flyers we have collected below for our fall nonprofit flyer distribution.  

If you or your organization would like to participate in Great Falls ES’s fall community flier distribution, thru News You Choose, please send fliers to Sara Harper, [email protected]. 

Non-profit organizations are welcome to participate. All fliers must be approved by school representatives before they are distributed. Our spring community flier distribution will go out on March 17th.  All community fliers will need to be received by March 10th. 

701 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066  |  Phone: 703.757.2100

Attendance: 703.757.2111 or [email protected]

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Dear Great Falls Families,

Thank you for your support and patience during our first early release on Monday last week.  Please know that as we begin planning for our next Early Release Monday on October 28, we will adhere to the following protocols:

• We are asking everyone to please complete this updated form to indicate selections for your family. This is a new form created by Great Falls ES, so you only need to complete one form per family now unless your children will not be going home the same way or at the same time. You also have the opportunity to indicate if you would like them to go home with a friend that day or by a different means of transportation.
• New!  SACC will be open starting at 12:30 p.m. for those students who attend after-school SACC.  All students participating in after-school SACC will be dismissed directly to SACC at 12:30 p.m.
• No changes to your child's dismissal procedures will be allowed after Wednesday, October 23. This is strictly for student safety, as there were many same-day changes requested this past early-release Monday, which made it difficult to ensure that all students got home safely and correctly.    
• Many of you have asked that we publish/share what students who stay with us for the early release will be doing. Unfortunately, these specifics depend on how many students are staying with us until the 3:35 dismissal, and this is part of the reason last-minute changes are difficult to handle. We can tell you that students will continue to be supervised by a Great Falls ES staff member, likely one of our specialist teachers. The activities and groupings will need to be completed when we determine the specifics of who will be staying.

Thank you for understanding, and we appreciate everyone's cooperation in advance to make next month's Early Release Monday a success.  

As always, Mr. Diaz and I are here to answer any questions you may have.  Thank you for your support, and have a fantastic weekend!

Sara Harper

Calendar Updates:

Oct. 4 -No School (Teacher Work Day)
Oct. 9 - Fall Picture Day
Oct 10 -13 - Vision/Hearing Screening
Oct. 14 - No School (Indigenous Peoples' Day - Staff Development Day
Oct. 28  - 2nd Early Release Monday

Click here to read GFES PTA newsletter updates.
Click here for the FCPS school year calendar.

Fall Picture Day 📸 

We are excited to partner with Strawbridge Studios for our school portraits and yearbooks! 

This year, our Fall Picture Day will be on Wednesday, October 9th! Go to www.strawbridge.net and enter the code: FM453631 to purchase your picture package now!

You can also click here to sign up to receive updates via email regarding your child’s school portraits. These updates include promotions, additional deals, and the ability to order more pictures after picture day. When entering your student’s information, please be sure to enter it exactly as it is on file with GFES. 

💗 Custodian Appreciation Day!

Tuesday, October 2nd was Custodian Appreciation Day!  We celebrate the Great Falls ES custodial team for their commitment to our students, staff, and community. Not only do they support the maintenance of the school and grounds but they also work outside of school hours to open the building to the community for practices, meetings and events. GFES has the best custodial staff around and we are so thankful for all they do! 🎉🥳

STEAM Updates🧪

Welcome back to STEAM Lab!!!  We have already been very busy in STEAM this year.  Read below to find out more about what we are doing.  

Kindergarten has been exploring STEAM subjects with activities related to each letter of the alphabet.  Activities have varied from using air cannons to move pom poms, building bridges, and an introduction to coding.  This week, they explored the concept of friction and what can create more or less.  

First Grade started with Teambuilder STEM bins.  These bins provided students with different challenges and allowed them to practice and reflect on essential character traits.  We will also be exploring STEM subjects with activities related to each letter of the alphabet.  So far they have explored static electricity and Forensic Scientists.  Next week, they will learn about different geometric shapes.  

Second-grade built color spinners to “mix” colors and then created a container to hold them.  They have also learned about the Upstairs and Downstairs brain.  Next week, the students will work on Fall STEM Bins Teambuilders. They will work with partners and rotate through stations to complete eight different challenges.  

Third grade has embarked on a Mission to Mars.  These missions are designed to engage in hands-on activities that integrate standards-based science concepts with the engineering design process.  Each mission will focus on a different topic related to STEM, such as robotics, space, and chemistry, and include a real-world career connection.  Last week, we completed Mission 2: Astronaut Training. Students learned basic facts about Mars. Apply the engineering design process to create an astronaut boot.  Mission 3: Get to Mars; students will practice using the engineering design process to design, build, and test a straw rocket.  

Fourth grade used the engineering design process to create a balloon-powered car that could travel 5 feet in a straight line.  Next week, students will learn about bird beaks, bird-eating, and bird home preferences. Then students will research local birds and brainstorm how to create a bird feeder for local birds.

Fifth grade is embarking on a Mission to the Moon through Space Club.  The main goal of Space Club is to connect academic subjects to a real-world engineering problem through engaging, hands-on learning. We have wrapped up Mission 1: Meet the Crew.  In Mission 2:  Astronaut Training, students will use the engineering design process to create a roller coaster.  It will connect to Mission to Moon with the vomit comet that uses changes in acceleration to prepare humans for space travel.

The sixth graders just finished their Zipline challenge.  Students used the engineering design process to design a zipline to transport groceries from a store to a customer while maintaining appropriate social distance during a pandemic. Now, they are also learning about the Upstairs and Downstairs brain.  However, they will take it a step further than second grade.  They will design and build a paper circuit “brain house” paper circuit house that has lights to light up which floor is being used.

✅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.

Yearbook Cover Contest🎨📚

Our annual Yearbook Cover Contest kicked off on Tuesday, October 1st! This is a fantastic opportunity for students to showcase their artistic talents and design a unique cover for this year’s yearbook, which our staff will vote on.

Each entry must be created on an 8½” x 11” piece of paper. Entries must also include the school name and year prominently featured, as well as the student’s and their teacher’s name written lightly on the back. 

Feel free to use any coloring medium you like — markers, colored pencils, paints, watercolors, or crayons. Remember, the brighter and bolder the design, the better! Keep in mind that only student artwork will be accepted. Once artwork is complete, please submit it to Mrs. Mizell by Friday, October 25th. 

🗓️ Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

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

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

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

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

📚 Social Studies Basal Resources Review

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

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

🎤 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, at Fairhill Elementary School.
• Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle School.

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

🧠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. 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.

FCPS Trust Policy Supports Caring Culture

Fairfax County Public Schools is proud of its caring culture and strives to provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for all students and families. The FCPS Trust Policy solidifies this commitment and aligns with Fairfax County Government's Public Trust and Confidentiality Policy. It ensures that FCPS students and families can access FCPS benefits and services without fear that information will be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to federal immigration officials. Please visit FCPS’ Trust Policy webpage to learn more about the policy and regulation in multiple languages.

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 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. 

Theater Workshop for 6th Grade Students 🎭

We are excited to announce a special opportunity for our 6th grade students! The Cooper Middle School Theatre Department will be hosting a one-day workshop on Saturday, October 26th, from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM. This engaging workshop will not only teach students the fundamentals of stage combat but also provide a chance to meet and interact with fellow cast members from our upcoming fall show, Elsewhere, as well as students from Langley High School’s production of Beauty and the Beast.

To register, please complete the Google form. Once registered, you will receive an email with additional details and payment information. Participation is limited to 30 students so sign up soon! 

Workshop Details:

• Instructor: Arlen Hancock (Learn more about him here)
• Date and Time: Saturday, October 26th, from 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
• Eligibility: 6th grade students (Limited to 30 participants)
• Cost: $10 (Payable via MySchoolBucks once registered)
• Lunch: A pizza lunch will be provided!

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Ms. Baber, Cooper Middle School’s Theater Arts Teacher, at [email protected]. 

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

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. 

Our final goal is Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation. We are preparing our students for a future that has yet to be imagined. We must give them the skills they will need to succeed. Watch this video to see students exploring and preparing for careers through Career and Technical Experience programs. See how Goal 5 is being put into practice.

701 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066  |  Phone: 703.757.2100

Attendance: 703.757.2111 or [email protected]

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Dear GFES Families,

Thank you so much for your flexibility and understanding during our first early release Monday. Your support and understanding mean a lot to us, and we truly appreciate it.  Internally, we had a great day; Mr. Diaz and I want to share some of the fantastic highlights with you. 

👨‍👨‍👧‍👧Roadrunner Families
It was a fantastic day filled with reflection and community.  This morning, we grouped our students in “Roadrunner Families”.  Roadrunner Families consist of mixed groupings of approximately 10 students into K-6 pockets;  each group of students traveled to a staff member to discuss what being part of a different school "family" might mean. Students collaborated to  create a family name and affirmation/motto. In addition to community building, the families who had time learned what it means to be an effective communicator and set their Portrait of a Graduate goals.  Students' will keep these same families for the school year as we explore community building and Portrait of a Graduate skills.  

Students talked about their Roadrunner family enthusiastically during recess/lunch and even in the hallways. They expressed how excited they were to learn from peers from all grades and from a different staff member. Please encourage your child to talk about what they did and learned during Roadrunner Families. 

🚌Early Release Monday Dismissal
We also had a very successful early dismissal—students who only stayed for our half-day programming were safely picked up for school and bused home. Our students who stayed for a full day got to work with our specialist through a rotation schedule and were safely transported to where they needed to be after school.  

Thank you so much for your support in preparing our students for our first early release Monday.  As a result, our staff was able to tackle a few hours of their VDOE requirements. Whether your student stayed for a half day or a full day, we got everyone where they needed to be and had a successful day of school.

Sincerely,

Sara Harper and Devin Diaz

701 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066  |  Phone: 703.757.2100

Attendance: 703.757.2111 or [email protected]

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Dear Great Falls ES Families,

Next Monday, September 23rd, is our first Early Release Monday this school year. These Monday afternoons are essential to allow our staff time for professional development outlined by VDOE.  Students going home will be dismissed at 12:35 pm; approximately 125 students will remain with us at school due to childcare hardship. 

Those staying with us should have received an email this week confirming your decision so we know which students will stay until 3:35 pm and how students will be transported home at that time.  Here is some additional information to help Monday run smoothly:

• It is vitally important that you remain with the dismissal plan that has been communicated to school. We want to ensure all of our students get home safely, as planned, on Monday and your cooperation is needed so your family's plan is clear. 
• If you plan on picking up your child between early and regular dismissal times, please know that due to high demand, this may take longer than usual.
• If your child is staying until regular dismissal time, please include an afternoon snack, if possible.  

There will be six additional times throughout the school year for early release days. As a reminder, students are only staying if there is a childcare hardship.  The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year:

• October 28
• December 9 (FCPS Date Change)
• February 24
• March 17
• April 28
• May 19

Have a lovely weekend,
Sara Harper

Calendar Updates:

Sept. 20  - PTA Under the Stars Movie
Sept. 23 - Early Release Monday #1 - Release at 12:35
Sept. 27 - SCA Spirit Week (wear Blue)
Oct. 3 - No School (Rosh Hashanah)
Oct. 4 -No School (Teacher Work Day)
Oct. 9 - Fall Picture Day
Oct 10-13 - Vision/Hearing Screening
Oct. 14 - No School (Indigenous Peoples' Day - Staff Development Day)
Oct. 28  - Early Release Monday

Click here to read GFES PTA newsletter updates.
Click here for the FCPS school year calendar.

📸 Fall Picture Day 

We are excited to partner with Strawbridge Studios for our school portraits and yearbooks! 

This year, our Fall Picture Day will be on Wednesday, October 9th! Go to www.strawbridge.net and enter the code: FM453631 to purchase your picture package now!

You can also click here to sign up to receive updates via email regarding your child’s school portraits. These updates include promotions, additional deals, and the ability to order more pictures after picture day. When entering your student’s information, please be sure to enter it exactly as it is on file with GFES.

Blue Star Welcome Week

September 21 - September 29, 2024

Every year, approximately 600,000 military-connected families relocate. Most of these families move to new duty stations, while some transition out of the military and others transition in. Fairfax County Public Schools is committed to ensuring our military families feel welcomed and a sense of belonging to their local community. Blue Star Welcome Week is an opportunity for the GFES community to welcome our military-connected families and show them our appreciation for their service and sacrifices.

Throughout the week, GFES will help ease their transition through events, messages, actions of welcome, and opportunities to make meaningful connections. Our Student Ambassadors and Student Council have been busy making posters, decorating the school and planning a Spirit Day. Please help us welcome our military families during Blue Star Welcome Week, September 21 - September 29, 2024, and throughout the year! #BlueStarWelcomeWeekFCPS 

At GFES, we strive to make sure our military-connected families have a smooth transition to our school. Please fill out this survey in order for us to better understand your needs and how to improve your experience at GFES.  Military Family Survey:- https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1prbvc180xmWpRhNnNfV1FAxIiL-od9BpvAkR1V0XlL4/edit

Mrs. Sue Kim ([email protected]) is our family liaison and military POC. Feel free to reach out for additional information so we can help support our military-connected Roadrunners.

Hispanic Heritage Month

We are excited to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15.   You may be thinking to yourself, "Why does Hispanic Heritage Month start on September 15th and not Sept. 1st?"

The day of September 15th is significant because it is the anniversary of the independence of Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively.

If you are looking for some fun resources to use with your kids, here is a good website: https://www.pbs.org/parents/hispanic-heritage-month

🐶️Exciting News for Our Schools: Therapy Dog Visits! 

We’re thrilled that Heeling House will be back this year! Therapy dog visits bring joy and comfort to our students and staff. Each month, a specially trained therapy dog will be visiting our school to offer support and companionship. These visits aim to enhance students' emotional well-being, reduce stress, and create a welcoming environment for learning.

Therapy dogs are known for their calming presence and ability to brighten anyone’s day.

This initiative will help foster a positive and supportive school atmosphere. If you have any questions or want to learn more about the program, please feel free to reach out. Let’s give a warm welcome to our furry friend and make our school community even more special!

Stay tuned for more updates and visit times. We can’t wait to see the smiles our therapy dog will bring! 🐾✨ 

If you do not want your student to participate, please complete this opt-out form.

For more information about Heeling House, please click here.

👀Vision and Hearing Screening👂🏻

Vision and hearing screening will be held on October 10th for all Kindergarteners and October 10th and 11th for all 3rd graders. The purpose of screening is to identify students who need further evaluation due to difficulty seeing the screening chart or hearing the screening tones. If your child wears glasses, please be sure that glasses are at school on screening day. Parents will be notified by letter if screening results indicate that further evaluation is needed. Prompt follow-up with your health care provider is recommended as vision and hearing difficulties can interfere with learning.

If you would like to assist as a volunteer with the screening process, please contact the School Health Aide at 703-757-2110.

🤒 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!

🍽️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.   🎤 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.

Community Flyer Distribution 

In accordance with Fairfax County Public Schools Regulation 1367.1, Great Falls Elementary allows non-profit organizations to distribute information to school families electronically. Materials will be sent via FCPS News You Choose twice yearly — fall and spring.

All flyers and proof of 501(c)(3) must be submitted to GFES Administrative Assistant, Colleen Murphy, at [email protected] for prior approval. All non-profit flyers must include the following disclaimer: “These materials are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or this school.”

All flyers must be received by Friday, October 4, 2024 to be included in the Fall Distribution and by Friday, April 4, 2025 to be included in the Spring Distribution. 

SCA Spirit Day GFES Families Invited! Student Ambassador Program

We are so excited to announce our new Student Ambassador Program here at GFES!

GFES Student Ambassadors is a school-based, student-led leadership program that brings together military and civilian peers to support all student’s transition and connection to the school. It also helps to create a welcoming environment and accepting school culture for our newest Roadrunners.

Do you believe your child would be a good fit to be a student ambassador?  Please contact our Family Liaison Sue Kim for information about the Student Ambassador Program. 

701 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066  |  Phone: 703.757.2100

Attendance: 703.757.2111 or [email protected]

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Dear Great Falls ES Families,

I hope this finds you well and enjoying this beautiful fall weather.  It's been another great week at Great Falls ES for students and staff as we get into the groove of the school year.  

I’d like to invite you to the PTA meeting on Tuesday, September 10, at 4:30 in our school cafeteria to discuss curriculum changes for the 24-25 school year. During this meeting, Mr. Diaz, our resource teachers, and I will partner with our PTA to present a broad overview of the curriculum changes and updates implemented through VDOE, FCPS, and Great Falls ES.  We hope you can join us! 

In an attempt to create the most efficient and productive presentation for you, please use this form to review an overview of the presentation topics and submit any questions you hope to have answered.  

If you can't make the meeting in person, we hope you’ll use this Zoom link to join our live stream: https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/95616169727.   Your involvement in your child’s education is invaluable, and we look forward to sharing these exciting updates with you. 

We hope to see you there,

Sara Harper

Calendar Updates:

Sept. 10 - GFES Curriculum Update and PTA Meeting @ 4:30 GFES Café
Sept. 20  - PTA Under the Stars Movie
Sept. 23 - Early Release Monday #1
Oct. 3 - No School (Rosh Hashanah)
Oct. 4 -No School (Teacher Work Day)
Oct. 14 - No School (Staff Development Day)

Click here to read GFES PTA newsletter updates.
Click here for the FCPS school year calendar.

Specialists Back to School Messages

Thank you to everyone who made it out to Back to School Night! We invite you to take a few minutes to view more information from our Specialists as well as view welcome messages from your school board representatives.

🚌 Change of Transportation

The CoT Program began on Tuesday, September 3rd, 2024!

Please use the online Change of Transportation Form to notify the school of any changes to your child’s daily transportation.

Completing this form will allow for quick and easy notification to students and staff. Changes must be submitted by 1:30PM daily to allow adequate time for our office to process and distribute the forms to teachers and students before dismissal each day.

Advanced Academic Instruction Meeting Information (AAP)

Ms. Keefer will be having two parent information sessions in the Fall for families interested in learning more about advanced academic programs (AAP) at Great Falls Elementary. Please save these dates:

Monday, September 16th from 9:00-9:45 am on Zoom: Parent Information Meeting regarding an Introduction to AAP and an overview of the Continuum of Available Services through Fairfax County Public Schools, and specifically, Great Falls Elementary. This information session will be open to all K-6 families and will take place via Zoom.

Monday, October 21st from 9:00-9:45am on Zoom: Parent Information Meeting explaining the Full Time AAP Screening Process. This information session will be for families with students in grades 2-6 and will take place via Zoom. Please keep in mind that full time services begin in third grade.

Please RSVP here to get the Zoom link for the meetings.

Any questions can be directed to Amy Keefer – [email protected]

Click here for the fall
Advanced Academic newsletter here 🍎 Make Every Day Count! The Importance of Attendance

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during breaks from school. 

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.

Learn how families can help form good attendance habits.

🦺Safety Drills During the School Year

Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for FCPS. Each school has an emergency preparedness plan to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Schools are required by state law to practice emergency drills, including lockdown drills, each year. Schools are also required to notify parents and guardians at least 24 hours before a school conducts a lockdown drill. However, schools are not required to give the specific date and time of the drill in advance. 

The first lockdown drill of the school year must take place within the first 20 days of school. Preschool and kindergarten students are exempt from practicing the first lockdown drill. 

Your child may come home and talk about their experience during the drill. We encourage you to talk with your child about the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Please review these frequently asked questions to support your students before and after school lockdown drills.

📙2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities 

FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities document (SR&R) explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. Read Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid’s letter to families regarding the SR&R. 

Parents/caregivers should talk to their child(ren) about expectations for this school year. Also, please log in to SIS ParentVUE and sign to acknowledge your review of the SR&R, or sign and return the signature sheet to your child’s school by Monday, September 30. 

You can submit questions online regarding the SR&R.

⚠️ Know Our Security Terms

FCPS uses specific terminology to describe the actions school staff and students should take to ensure safety in a variety of situations. It is important for staff, families, and students to understand what the different terms mean and how they impact school operations.

Watch this video to learn about safety terms including lockdown; secure the building; and stay put, stay tuned. 

If students, staff, or community members have a safety concern at school (that is not an immediate emergency), they should submit a tip to the FCPS Safety Tipline. In an emergency, please call 9-1-1.  

Student Ambassador Program

We are so excited to announce our new Student Ambassador Program here at GFES!

GFES Student Ambassadors is a school-based, student-led leadership program that brings together military and civilian peers to support all student’s transition and connection to the school. It also helps to create a welcoming environment and accepting school culture for our newest Roadrunners.

Do you believe your child would be a good fit to be a student ambassador?  Please contact our Family Liaison Sue Kim for information about the Student Ambassador Program. 

701 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066  |  Phone: 703.757.2100

Attendance: 703.757.2111 or [email protected]

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Dear Great Falls ES Families,

We are thrilled to share that our first week of school has been so very successful! As we embarked on this new academic year, it is truly inspiring to witness the excitement and enthusiasm of our students as they take their first steps towards a year filled with learning, growth, and discovery.

We are looking forward to welcoming our parents in for back to school night next week (see specific dates and times below).  We will also be hosting a Principal/AP Meet and Greet during our first PTA Meeting on Tuesday, September 10 @ 4:30 in our cafeteria - a virtual option will also be available.  Together, we will discuss the new and exciting curriculum changes changes this year from the VA Dept. of Education, FCPS and Great Falls ES.   An opportunity to register to attend and submit questions prior to the meeting will follow soon.

We look forward to a fantastic year ahead filled with countless opportunities for our students to learn, grow, and reach new heights.

Thank you,

Sara Harper
Principal

⭐Back to School Night Events⭐

Learn from our teachers about our goals for the year, school policies, and classroom procedures followed by time in your child’s classroom to see where their learning will take place this year!  Each session will run from 5:30 - 6:00 and then repeated again from 6:15 - 6:45.

Tuesday, August 27 (grades k, 1, 2, 3)

Wednesday, August 28 (grades 4, 5 & 6)
*** 6th grade families will begin at 5:15 with a grade level preview**
** JIP classrooms will have slightly adjusted times sent by JIP teacher **

Calendar Updates:

Aug 30 - No School (Labor Day Holiday)
Sept 2 - No School (Labor Day Holiday)
Sept 3 -Change of Transportation (COT) program begins
Sept 10 - Principal Coffee and PTA Meeting @ 4:30 GFES Cafe
Sept 20  - PTA Under the Stars Movie
Sept 23 - Early Release Monday #1
Oct 3 - No School (Rosh Hashanah)
Oct. 4 -No School (Teacher Work Day)

 🔖 Bookmark the School Year Calendar: Be sure to bookmark the FCPS school year calendar to keep track of school holidays and breaks.

Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy

Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our main office at 703-757-2100.

Lightspeed Parent Report on Child’s Device Activity

FCPS has tools to help parents know more about their child’s activity on any FCPS device. These tools are provided at no cost to families by Lightspeed, the school division’s internet content filtering service.

Parents may sign up for a weekly Parent Report, which will provide a list of the top sites their child visited. The report also offers parents the ability to sign up for free access to the Internet Use Parent Portal. Through the portal, parents may pause their child’s access to the internet on their FCPS device during non-school hours.

Learn more about Lightspeed Parent Reports.

Everything You Can Do Through SIS ParentVUE

Want to easily access back-to-school forms and checklists? Log in to your SIS ParentVUE account to find forms and make updates.

Update Contact Information
Be among the first to know about weather closings, bus delays, and other critical communications from our school and FCPS by adding your cell phone number and email to SIS ParentVUE. To update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, click the “Online Packets” tab in the upper right of the screen, then click the “Online Verification/Update” icon. 

Complete Permission Forms
Families can now easily give permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. This online tool can be accessed using your SIS ParentVUE account. You can easily opt your child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. You may also change how your student’s information is managed.

Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. Watch this video to see how to use the tool. 

Submit Absences
Parents/caregivers can submit up to two full-day absences through SIS ParentVUE. Log in and click “Report Absence.” Absences longer than two days, partial day absences, and changes of transportation should still be reported to our front office. 

Update Immunizations and Records
Immunizations are required for all students to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of protecting them from certain diseases and keeping them healthy. Please log in to SIS ParentVUE to see what immunizations your child has recorded. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up-to-date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia as soon as possible. If your child needs a vaccine, please make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or access other local services.

Remember to request your child’s immunization record and bring that to the school’s front office or submit the record via SIS ParentVUE as soon as possible. Find more information on FCPS’ website.

Don’t Have a SIS ParentVUE Account Yet?
Contact our front office for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage.

 

Don't Delay, JOIN THE PTA TODAY!

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP REMINDER

If you joined last year, you'll need to renew/join each year to receive the great benefits year after year, along with supporting the amazing programs we provide our students and staff.

Membership is only $20 and supports PTA operations, gives you voting rights at all PTA general meetings and entry into raffles for tickets and parking for PTA events!

Join Now >> https://www.gfespta.com/membership

Roadrunner Giving Campaign!

The PTA is asking our Roadrunner families to please consider donating to our ANNUAL Roadrunner Giving Campaign! We hope to have many generous families donate and need the continued support to continue assisting our school with the many programs, activities the PTA supports.

We have some wonderful incentives this year to encourage our wonderful families to donate! New this year: donate at least $250 to the RGC by October 31st and you will be entered into our raffle to be PRINCIPAL FOR THE DAY!! Other incentives include: 

40% of families join/donate - School-Wide Pajama Day

50% of families join/donate - Popsicles for all students

60% of families join/donate - School-Wide Dance Party!

At our first general PTA meeting of the year, we will share what the PTA’s goals are and how we will actively assist our students, teachers and families. More information on the time and location of the meeting will be shared shortly.

Lastly, if anyone - person, family, company - is interested in becoming a Corporate Sponsor, please click HERE to learn more information on how our school can benefit from your sponsorship as well as promoting your business through out the school year! Please click HERE to become a Corporate Sponsor!

We already have generous families and businesses that have donated and will be featured on our website and Facebook Page!

To view our Roadrunner Giving Campaign flyer, please click HERE!

Principal's Coffee - Tuesday September 10th

Please join us on Tuesday, September 10th for the opportunity to "meet" our wonderful principal, Sara Harper! She will talk about the year ahead and the curriculum. We will be meeting in person but parents unable to attend, can still log in and participate virtually! More information as well as the time will be shared in the coming weeks!

Become a Room Parent!

Room Parents serve an important role in helping support the classroom teacher, organize classroom events and facilitate communication between the school and parents. If interested in serving in this role, please sign up HERE! 

To view the room parent flyer, please click HERE!

Seeking Art Enrichment Classroom Lead Parent Volunteers!

Use the form in the link below to express interest in being the Art Enrichment lead for your child’s class. The AE Committee will then select the lead for each class and notify you directly if you have been chosen. There are six sessions (six artists) that are presented each school year. The Lead is responsible for coordinating art enrichment parent volunteers for your child’s homeroom teacher.  Minimal prep required, besides a one-hour orientation (generally held at 9:15 AM on Wednesdays) and 1-2 hours on the day of the session. No Art Experience Necessary! Being the AE lead is a fun way to be involved in your child’s classroom.  

https://forms.gle/gzMFYixmCcNba2e78

New Family Buddy Program

Are you new to Great Falls Elementary and want a friendly & trusted resource to ask questions and learn more about our community?  Are you a veteran GFES family that wants to lend a helping hand to new families so they can learn more about Great Falls Elementary and our community? 

Please sign up HERE to be matched with another family to kick off this school year on a positive note!  

 

Sign Your Daughters Up for Girls on the Run!

REGISTER FOR GIRLS ON THE RUN

Girls on the Run (GOTR) is a running program for girls grades 3rd through 6th, which teaches girls to be strong, healthy and confident. The GOTR season begins on September 23rd and goes through November 19th. Practice will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the GFES track from 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM.

Registration opens August 19th. Register before September 17th at this link:

https://www.gotrnova.org/

Interested in coaching? Please complete this Google form and we will be in touch

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeQPS4festQJ57tGykMe1rHsZmfMYPl-PSQqj5K4kzpaZUy0Q/viewform?usp=sf_link

To view the Girls on the Run Flyer, please click HERE

Become a Let Me Run Athlete!

REGISTER FOR LET ME RUN

Let Me Run inspires boys through the power or running to be courageous enough to be themselves, to build healthy relationships, and to live an active lifestyle.

Let Me Run registration opens on August 19th, 2024!

The season runs from September 22nd through November 6th

Practice dates and times are Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:30 - 8:30am

Please contact Anna Caputo at [email protected] with any questions!

Click HERE to register!

To view the Let Me Run Flyer, please click HERE!

Before School Spanish Immersion Program is Back!

The Children’s Center for Language and Culture, Inc. (ChiCeLaCu!) in partnership with the GFES PTA is pleased to offer the Spanish Program for its 12th consecutive year. ChiCeLaCu’s goal is to cement a strong language foundation, ultimately enabling students to become proficient Spanish speakers.

The program combines the arts with dynamic and interactive teaching approaches to make this a truly fun and effective experience. As a long-term program, children are expected to achieve language proficiency in 4-5 years of participation in the program. Students begin at Beginner Levels 1 and 2 and move to the intermediate and advanced levels as they progress through their school years.

The class is held from 7:45 AM to 8:35 AM on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays beginning on September 16th, 2024 and ending on May 7th, 2025. ChiCeLaCu! follows the FCPS calendar with respect to teacher workdays, holidays, and school cancellations.

To register, please click HERE.

Fall 2024 After School Enrichment!

The PTA has once again partnered with Baroody Camps, Inc. (www.baroodycamps.com) to provide a wide variety of after school enrichment classes for students across all grade levels. Registration for all of the 2024 After School Enrichment classes opens on Monday August 26th at 8:00am and closes on Friday September 8th at 11:59pm! 

Please click HERE to learn about the classes being offered this fall!

 

To view the Fall 2024 School Enrichment Flyer, please click HERE!

701 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066  |  Phone: 703.757.2100

Attendance: 703.757.2111 or [email protected]

Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Updated Change from Last Email:

🚌Transportation Communication
Bus route emails will no longer be sent from our Transportation office.  They will be updated through SIS ParentVue as we get closer to school time.  They are not currently in SIS ParentVue and are loaded by our FCPS transportation office.

  Dear Great Falls ES Families,

Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year!  I know this email is long and packed full of information.  Please take time to note these dates on your calendar to ensure you have all of the information needed for a smooth transition and start to the school year.   

⭐New Family Playdate⭐
Wednesday, August 14th at 10:00 am on the GFES playground

⭐GFES Open House⭐
Thursday, August 15, at Great Falls Elementary
9:00 - 9:45:  Families with last names A – L
10:00 - 10:45: Families with last names M – Z

⭐First Day of School⭐
August 19, 2024

⭐Back to School Night⭐
(For Parents/CareGivers Only)
Tuesday, August 27, from 5:30-6:45 pm (grades k, 1, 2, 3)
Wednesday, August 28, from 5:30-6:45 pm (grades 4, 5 & 6)
** JIP classrooms will have different times sent by JIP teacher **

⭐Labor Day Break⭐
Friday, August 30 - Tuesday, September 2 No School

FCPS School Year Calendar for 2024-2025

📚School Supplies
School supply lists can be found here for families who did not purchase a school supply kit through our PTA this year.  Please bring supplies to classrooms during Open House or on the first day of school.  

💻SIS ParentVue
The first step to ensuring your child’s information is up to date is to ensure you can access your ParentVue account. ParentVue provides you access to your student’s bus routes, class placements, attendance records, grades, and assignments. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. The same ParentVUE account can also access information about students in the same family. You can access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device. 

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.

🍎 Class placement
Class placement assignments will be official and available in SIS (ParentVue) on Wednesday, August 14. We continue to place students in classes. Please do not call our front office or email our staff members for this information prior to Wednesday.  

👩🏽‍🏫New Teaching and Learning Resources and Structures
As part of our Equitable Access to Literacy plan, FCPS is changing the way we teach reading to our K-6 students. Starting this school year, we will have a new Language Arts curriculum. Because of this new curriculum, all FCPS teachers who help our students learn how to read will have the same high-quality materials and lesson plans.  

🌎Advanced Academic Curriculum Options (grades 3-6)
Beginning this school year, all students in grades 3-6 will receive advanced academic curriculum instruction and resources in social studies and science. Please keep this in mind as class placements are sent out as teachers and homeroom classes may be mixed.  Much more information about how this will look and work coming in the future.

📧Paperless Opt-Outs Available!
As a part of our ongoing efforts to streamline paper processes, parents can now select a number of opt-out’s electronically via ParentVUE.  Once you have signed into your ParentVUE account, simply select the “Student Info” tab and click on “Edit Information.” You will find opt-out’s listed there.  Parents that do not yet have a ParentVUE account will still be able to use paper forms for notification. If you need to set up your ParentVUE account, you can create one online via the FCPS ParentVUE Registration page.

🏥 School Clinic Update
Our clinic will be open to drop off medications during the following dates and times:

Tuesday, 8/13:  9am - 3pm
Thursday, 8/15: 9am - 3pm
Friday, 8/16:  9am - 3pm

Parents can submit updates/changes to Emergency Care and Health Information forms if needed. Parents can also use SIS ParentVUE to verify and update their student’s emergency contacts, phone numbers, and health conditions. 

📑Parent Handbook
Please take some time to review our Great Falls Family Handbook before the first day of school.  We will also have paper copies at Open House as well.  We want to provide our families with this resource as it will help assist you with pertinent information regarding the 2023-2024 school year.  

🥗Food and Nutrition Services
Food and Nutrition Services will email student PINs via e-notify before the first day of school. Information about meal prices, setting up lunch accounts and payment options (MySchoolBucks, cash or check) for cafeteria meals can be found here.  Lunch Menus are also available here. 

🍜Free and Reduced Price Meal Applications
According to the Centers for Disease Control, eating breakfast at school is associated with better attendance rates, fewer missed school days, and better test scores. Families that are earning less than 185% of the poverty level can receive breakfast and lunch for their students at no cost.

Families must complete the Free and Reduced Price Meal application before the start of each school year. Approved applications may also qualify students for additional benefits. Look for the application in August. View criteria and up-to-date information on the Free and Reduced-Price Meals webpage. Families should reach out to their schools with questions or for assistance.

📅Early Release Mondays

FCPS will implement early releases at the elementary level on seven Mondays during the 2024-25 school year. The primary purpose is to provide dedicated time for teachers to complete required professional development for the new Virginia Literacy Act. We value your child's education and continue to support good attendance practices, so these early dismissal days are a convenient option for scheduling appointments to avoid early checkout or absences on other school days.  

Great Falls ES will release students at 12:35 pm on the following days:

September 23
October 28
November 25
February 24
March 17
April 28
May 19

 While these are designated as early release days—where necessary—we will ensure that every student has supervised enrichment activities at the school and returns home at the regular time if that is what works best for families. More information on this will be provided soon.

🌎Our Voices, Our Future: Multilingual Learners Summit
All multilingual learners and their families are invited to a summit on Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at Annandale High School. The summit will be primarily geared toward secondary multilingual learners, but all are welcome to attend. The goal of the summit is to foster an environment of empowerment where multilingual students and their families can establish meaningful connections, engage in active listening, and openly share their experiences, cultivating mutual support and a deeper understanding of educational pathways within FCPS.  

This event will begin with a table fair showcasing many opportunities available within FCPS and the wider community that support students' paths to graduation and future careers. Additionally, Dr. Jose Luis Zelaya will present a keynote, sharing a message about the power of community and resilience. Following the keynote, a student panel will dialogue with Dr. Zelaya.  

Refreshments and light food will be served. Language and childcare services will be available. FCPS has emailed all secondary-level multilingual learners a central invitation. Registration is open for students, families, or staff planning to attend.    

Flyer links:  English-Spanish  |  Arabic  |  Urdu  |  Korean  |  Vietnamese  |  Chinese

Back-to-School Volunteers Needed

On Wednesday, August 14th, the PTA needs parent volunteers to help GFES teachers and staff prepare for the start of the year. As they say "many hands make light work" and this is a great opportunity to meet your PTA leaders and other parents before school even begins! Come as you are for as little or as long as you can!

School Supplies: school supply kits have been delivered to the school, so we now need parents to help distribute them to classrooms. The elevator and carts will be available!

Welcome Packet Stuffing: each year, the PTA stuffs the first Tuesday folder of the year. Get a jump start on the year by getting a first look at all the key information you and your family need!

Sign up HERE

Thank you so much!!

 

Teacher Welcome Back Breakfast & Lunch

Each year, the PTA hosts a Welcome Back Breakfast and Lunch for our amazing Teachers and Staff. We will be hosting this wonderful event on Monday, August 12th in the school Cafeteria. Breakfast and lunch will be catered but we are asking for donations of drinks, plates/napkins, and some grab and go snacks to stock the teacher's lounge!

Please see details and sign up HERE so we can warmly welcome our teachers and staff back to school!

If you would prefer to purchase items through our Amazon wish list, you can access it HERE

Thank you so much for your continued support!

701 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066  |  Phone: 703.757.2100

Attendance: 703.757.2111 or [email protected]

Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

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

To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.

Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.

이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.

.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى

Dear Great Falls ES Families,

Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year!  I know this email is long and packed full of information.  Please take time to note these dates on your calendar to ensure you have all of the information needed for a smooth transition and start to the school year.   

⭐New Family Playdate⭐
Wednesday, August 14th at 10:00 am on the GFES playground

⭐GFES Open House⭐
Thursday, August 15, at Great Falls Elementary
9:00 - 9:45:  Families with last names A – L
10:00 - 10:45: Families with last names M – Z

⭐First Day of School⭐
August 19, 2024

⭐Back to School Night⭐
(For Parents/CareGivers Only)
Tuesday, August 27, from 5:30-6:45 pm (grades k, 1, 2, 3)
Wednesday, August 28, from 5:30-6:45 pm (grades 4, 5 & 6)
** JIP classrooms will have different times sent by JIP teacher **

⭐Labor Day Break⭐
Friday, August 30 - Tuesday, September 2 No School

FCPS School Year Calendar for 2024-2025

📚School Supplies
School supply lists can be found here for families who did not purchase a school supply kit through our PTA this year.  Please bring supplies to classrooms during Open House or on the first day of school.  

💻SIS ParentVue
The first step to ensuring your child’s information is up to date is to ensure you can access your ParentVue account. ParentVue provides you access to your student’s bus routes, class placements, attendance records, grades, and assignments. 

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. The same ParentVUE account can also access information about students in the same family. You can access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device. 

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.

🍎 Class placement
Class placement assignments will be official and available in SIS (ParentVue) on Wednesday, August 14. We continue to place students in classes. Please do not call our front office or email our staff members for this information prior to Wednesday.  

👩🏽‍🏫New Teaching and Learning Resources and Structures
As part of our Equitable Access to Literacy plan, FCPS is changing the way we teach reading to our K-6 students. Starting this school year, we will have a new Language Arts curriculum. Because of this new curriculum, all FCPS teachers who help our students learn how to read will have the same high-quality materials and lesson plans.  

🌎Advanced Academic Curriculum Options (grades 3-6)
Beginning this school year, all students in grades 3-6 will receive advanced academic curriculum instruction and resources in social studies and science. Please keep this in mind as class placements are sent out as teachers and homeroom classes may be mixed.  Much more information about how this will look and work coming in the future.

📧Paperless Opt-Outs Available!
As a part of our ongoing efforts to streamline paper processes, parents can now select a number of opt-out’s electronically via ParentVUE.  Once you have signed into your ParentVUE account, simply select the “Student Info” tab and click on “Edit Information.” You will find opt-out’s listed there.  Parents that do not yet have a ParentVUE account will still be able to use paper forms for notification. If you need to set up your ParentVUE account, you can create one online via the FCPS ParentVUE Registration page.

🏥 School Clinic Update
Our clinic will be open to drop off medications during the following dates and times:

Tuesday, 8/13:  9am - 3pm
Thursday, 8/15: 9am - 3pm
Friday, 8/16:  9am - 3pm

Parents can submit updates/changes to Emergency Care and Health Information forms if needed. Parents can also use SIS ParentVUE to verify and update their student’s emergency contacts, phone numbers, and health conditions. 

📑Parent Handbook
Please take some time to review our Great Falls Family Handbook before the first day of school.  We will also have paper copies at Open House as well.  We want to provide our families with this resource as it will help assist you with pertinent information regarding the 2023-2024 school year.  

🚌Transportation Communication
Communication was sent last Friday to families eligible to receive school bus services to and from school.  If you still need to do so, please respond to this email to assist our transportation department in developing the most efficient bus routes.

🥗Food and Nutrition Services
Food and Nutrition Services will email student PINs via e-notify before the first day of school. Information about meal prices, setting up lunch accounts and payment options (MySchoolBucks, cash or check) for cafeteria meals can be found here.  Lunch Menus are also available here. 

🍜Free and Reduced Price Meal Applications
According to the Centers for Disease Control, eating breakfast at school is associated with better attendance rates, fewer missed school days, and better test scores. Families that are earning less than 185% of the poverty level can receive breakfast and lunch for their students at no cost.

Families must complete the Free and Reduced Price Meal application before the start of each school year. Approved applications may also qualify students for additional benefits. Look for the application in August. View criteria and up-to-date information on the Free and Reduced-Price Meals webpage. Families should reach out to their schools with questions or for assistance.

📅Early Release Mondays

FCPS will implement early releases at the elementary level on seven Mondays during the 2024-25 school year. The primary purpose is to provide dedicated time for teachers to complete required professional development for the new Virginia Literacy Act. We value your child's education and continue to support good attendance practices, so these early dismissal days are a convenient option for scheduling appointments to avoid early checkout or absences on other school days.  

Great Falls ES will release students at 12:35 pm on the following days:

September 23
October 28
November 25
February 24
March 17
April 28
May 19

 While these are designated as early release days—where necessary—we will ensure that every student has supervised enrichment activities at the school and returns home at the regular time if that is what works best for families. More information on this will be provided soon.

🌎Our Voices, Our Future: Multilingual Learners Summit
All multilingual learners and their families are invited to a summit on Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at Annandale High School. The summit will be primarily geared toward secondary multilingual learners, but all are welcome to attend. The goal of the summit is to foster an environment of empowerment where multilingual students and their families can establish meaningful connections, engage in active listening, and openly share their experiences, cultivating mutual support and a deeper understanding of educational pathways within FCPS.  

This event will begin with a table fair showcasing many opportunities available within FCPS and the wider community that support students' paths to graduation and future careers. Additionally, Dr. Jose Luis Zelaya will present a keynote, sharing a message about the power of community and resilience. Following the keynote, a student panel will dialogue with Dr. Zelaya.  

Refreshments and light food will be served. Language and childcare services will be available. FCPS has emailed all secondary-level multilingual learners a central invitation. Registration is open for students, families, or staff planning to attend.    

Flyer links:  English-Spanish  |  Arabic  |  Urdu  |  Korean  |  Vietnamese  |  Chinese

Back-to-School Volunteers Needed

On Wednesday, August 14th, the PTA needs parent volunteers to help GFES teachers and staff prepare for the start of the year. As they say "many hands make light work" and this is a great opportunity to meet your PTA leaders and other parents before school even begins! Come as you are for as little or as long as you can!

School Supplies: school supply kits have been delivered to the school, so we now need parents to help distribute them to classrooms. The elevator and carts will be available!

Welcome Packet Stuffing: each year, the PTA stuffs the first Tuesday folder of the year. Get a jump start on the year by getting a first look at all the key information you and your family need!

Sign up HERE

Thank you so much!!

 

Teacher Welcome Back Breakfast & Lunch

Each year, the PTA hosts a Welcome Back Breakfast and Lunch for our amazing Teachers and Staff. We will be hosting this wonderful event on Monday, August 12th in the school Cafeteria. Breakfast and lunch will be catered but we are asking for donations of drinks, plates/napkins, and some grab and go snacks to stock the teacher's lounge!

Please see details and sign up HERE so we can warmly welcome our teachers and staff back to school!

If you would prefer to purchase items through our Amazon wish list, you can access it HERE

Thank you so much for your continued support!

701 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066  |  Phone: 703.757.2100

Attendance: 703.757.2111 or [email protected]

Web | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram