FCPS

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Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week

This Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week, our TLES PTA & families went above and beyond to show our teachers & staff how much they care. From the delicious Monday morning breakfast to the relaxing Friday lunch, every day was filled with thoughtful gestures.

A special shout-out to the guest wellness speakers and the phenomenal massage therapists who provided much-needed pampering! We can't forget the delightful coffee treats, beautiful bouquets, generous gift cards, and the chance for teachers to unwind with yoga.

Thank you, TLES PTA & TLES families, for your creativity, generosity, and dedication. Your actions truly spoke volumes, and we know our staff felt incredibly appreciated!

📢 Social Media & Your Elementary Schooler Presentation

TLES Families,

We invite you to join us for an informative session, Social Media: A Guide for Elementary School Families, on Wednesday, May 22nd at 6:30 PM.

Our session will include information on:

• The positive and negative aspects of social media for young children.
• Strategies to keep your child safe online.
• Tips for building healthy online habits together.
• Q&A session to address your specific concerns.

Dinner will be served. We look forward to learning alongside you & ask you complete the following form, https://forms.gle/8GXuy8nf22HUKsuD9 if you plan to attend.

• Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week
• 📢 Social Media & Your Elementary Schooler Presentation
• Calendar Reminders
• TLES Class Placement Input for the 2024-2025 School Year
• Matilda Jr. Presented by LJMS Drama
• ☀️ Save the Date for FCPS’ Summer Extravaganza
• Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup
• Jewish American Heritage Month
• Resources for Newly Registered Families
• 🩹 Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and 12th Graders
• 📞 FCPS Ombuds Provides Confidential Guidance

Calendar Reminders

May 16-18 LJMS Presents Matilda Jr.

May 27 Memorial Day

May 30 Family Heritage Night

June 4 Spring Choir Concert

June 5 Family Market

June 6 Field Day

June 12 Last Day of School (2 hour early release)

May Observances

• Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
• Mental Health Awareness Month
• Jewish American Heritage Month

TLES Class Placement Input for the 2024-2025 School Year

As we make class placements, we consider many factors including individual student information, teacher input, and social relationships.  Every class will have a blend of children with diverse needs, personalities, and learning interests.  Due to the many factors we must consider in creating classroom placements, including the reassignment of some teachers to a different grade level and the hiring of new teachers, requests for a specific teacher cannot be honored.  Please complete this optional form if you have information you would like us to consider by Friday, May 17th. Please complete a separate form for each child.

Register Today for FCPS Summer Camps

Registration for FCPS Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA/E-IFTA) camps closes on Friday, June 7. Tuition is waived for students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Bus transportation is available from select FCPS high schools and middle schools. Learn more about Summer Learning and Fun for Students. 

Matilda Jr. Presented by LJMS Drama

Luther Jackson Middle School Drama presents Matilda Jr. Witness a brilliant girl with telekinetic powers stand up to bullies and change her world. Get ready for a fun and empowering musical!

May 16 & 17 at 7:00 PM & May 18 at 2:30 PM & 7:00 PM. 

Get your ticket today!

☀️ Save the Date for FCPS’ Summer Extravaganza

Don’t miss a day of family fun and learning at the FCPS Summer Extravaganza! 

Stop by Woodson High School on Saturday, June 1, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., where students will be able to take part in engaging educational activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire growth. 

Representatives from local businesses, Fairfax County Public Library, and the Fairfax County Park Authority are participating in the Summer Extravaganza. Community organizations, such as Neighborhood Community Services, will be at the event as well. All will have learning activities, tips, and helpful information for families. Enjoy face painting, food, music, a moon bounce, a petting zoo, storytime, and student performances — all at no cost!

Visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage for more details and register to attend. Registration is not required, but it's helpful for planning purposes.

Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup

Good evening TLES, for parents interested in supporting our weekend food pick up at Trader Joe's and distribution at TLES, please find this sign-up form:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E4AA9A628A1FE3-tles#/

These weekend events only take approximately 30 minutes of your time in between pick up and distribution at TLES.  Thank you for helping us help our community!

Jewish American Heritage Month

May is a national month of recognition of the history of Jewish contributions to American culture, acknowledging the diverse achievement of the Jewish community in the U.S. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Resources for Newly Registered Families

• Being connected to your school community helps you stay informed and support your child’s success. Take some time to get familiar with the many resources and tools available to FCPS families, including:

• School Age Child Care (SACC) – This Fairfax County government program provides a safe and fun environment before and after school for elementary school-age children.
• FCPS Communications for Families – FCPS shares news and information to support student learning and promote family involvement.
• Family Engagement Resources – FCPS works to connect, strengthen, and support our families, schools, and communities. 
• Do You Know About Family Liaisons? – Family liaisons serve as a link between families and schools. You may contact Ms. Baptiste, our family liaison, at [email protected] and 703-206-5300 .  

There’s an easy to follow five-step process outlined for parents registering their children for kindergarten. Be sure to register your child as soon as possible! 

Register Your Children Online

Online registration is available for new and returning (re-enrolling) FCPS families! Apply today to help us plan for the 2024-25 school year.

🩹 Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and 12th Graders

• The next steps in FCPS’ budget process are:

• Tuesday, May 14: The School Board holds a public hearing on the budget. Register to speak by 6:30 p.m., on Monday, May 13.
• Wednesday, May 15: Second day of School Board public hearings, if needed.
• Tuesday, May 21: School Board budget work session.
• Thursday, May 23: School Board adopts FCPS’ approved budget.

For more details on our budget, view FCPS budget documents.

⏰ Share Your Thoughts on Middle School Start Times

• Attend a forum to hear about adolescent sleep research from an expert, learn about FCPS’ ongoing middle school start times study, and participate in small group discussions. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Breakout sessions will be held for middle school students to share their voices. Students are encouraged to attend! 

  Register by clicking on one of the following dates: 

  • Monday, May 13, 6:30-8 p.m., virtual forum. 
  • Monday, May 20, 6-8 p.m., at Hughes Middle School.
  • Wednesday, May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Frost Middle School. 
  While registration is not required, it does help with planning. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times.

📞 FCPS Ombuds Provides Confidential Guidance

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

Anyone seeking assistance from the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected], visit their webpage, or submit a question. Ombuds staff do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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

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Week 34 at Timber Lane ES

• Week 34 at Timber Lane ES
• Calendar Reminders
• TLES Class Placement Input for the 2024-2025 School Year
• Matilda Jr. Presented by LJMS Drama
• ☀️ Save the Date for FCPS’ Summer Extravaganza
• Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup
• Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
• Resources for Newly Registered Families
• 🩹 Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and 12th Graders
• 💪 Let's Finish the School Year Strong!
• 📞 FCPS Ombuds Provides Confidential Guidance

Calendar Reminders

May 5 Orthodox Easter

May 5 Children's Day

May 6 - 10 Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week

May 7 National Fentanyl Awareness Day

May 8 Walk & Roll to School Day

May 8 National School Nurse Day

May 16-18 LJMS Presents Matilda Jr.

May 27 Memorial Day

June 12 Last Day of School (2 hour early release)

May Observances

• Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
• Mental Health Awareness Month
• Jewish American Heritage Month

TLES Class Placement Input for the 2024-2025 School Year

As we make class placements, we consider many factors including individual student information, teacher input, and social relationships.  Every class will have a blend of children with diverse needs, personalities, and learning interests.  Due to the many factors we must consider in creating classroom placements, including the reassignment of some teachers to a different grade level and the hiring of new teachers, requests for a specific teacher cannot be honored.  Please complete this optional form if you have information you would like us to consider by Friday, May 17th. Please complete a separate form for each child.

Walk & Roll to School May 8

Wednesday, May 8, is the official Bike to School Day. You can register as a school, family, or neighborhood. Plan your ride whether you ride to school, to a park, or just within your neighborhood.

Bike Month has been celebrated since 1956 to showcase the many benefits of bicycling and encourage more people to give biking a try. Fairfax County has an extensive network of both paved and natural surface bike trails. You can access a map to all the trails in Fairfax county online.

 

Matilda Jr. Presented by LJMS Drama

Luther Jackson Middle School Drama presents Matilda Jr. Witness a brilliant girl with telekinetic powers stand up to bullies and change her world. Get ready for a fun and empowering musical!

May 16 & 17 at 7:00 PM & May 18 at 2:30 PM & 7:00 PM. 

Get your ticket today!

☀️ Save the Date for FCPS’ Summer Extravaganza

Don’t miss a day of family fun and learning at the FCPS Summer Extravaganza! 

Stop by Woodson High School on Saturday, June 1, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., where students will be able to take part in engaging educational activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire growth. 

Representatives from local businesses, Fairfax County Public Library, and the Fairfax County Park Authority are participating in the Summer Extravaganza. Community organizations, such as Neighborhood Community Services, will be at the event as well. All will have learning activities, tips, and helpful information for families. Enjoy face painting, food, music, a moon bounce, a petting zoo, storytime, and student performances — all at no cost!

Visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage for more details and register to attend. Registration is not required, but it's helpful for planning purposes.

Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup

Good evening TLES, for parents interested in supporting our weekend food pick up at Trader Joe's and distribution at TLES, please find this sign-up form:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E4AA9A628A1FE3-tles#/

These weekend events only take approximately 30 minutes of your time in between pick up and distribution at TLES.  Thank you for helping us help our community!

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

People with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific have been integral to the story of America. In 1992, May was designated Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate their heritage and contributions. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Resources for Newly Registered Families

• Being connected to your school community helps you stay informed and support your child’s success. Take some time to get familiar with the many resources and tools available to FCPS families, including:

• School Age Child Care (SACC) – This Fairfax County government program provides a safe and fun environment before and after school for elementary school-age children.
• FCPS Communications for Families – FCPS shares news and information to support student learning and promote family involvement.
• Family Engagement Resources – FCPS works to connect, strengthen, and support our families, schools, and communities. 
• Do You Know About Family Liaisons? – Family liaisons serve as a link between families and schools. You may contact Ms. Baptiste, our family liaison, at [email protected] and 703-206-5300 .  

There’s an easy to follow five-step process outlined for parents registering their children for kindergarten. Be sure to register your child as soon as possible! 

Register Your Children Online

Online registration is available for new and returning (re-enrolling) FCPS families! Apply today to help us plan for the 2024-25 school year.

🩹 Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and 12th Graders

Immunizations are required for all students entering 7th and 12th grades this fall. Visit the FCPS immunization webpage to learn about the required vaccines.  Caregivers should ask their private healthcare provider or the health department to review their student's immunization record to ensure that their student has received these required immunizations. 

It is important to schedule immunizations early in the summer, as seventh-grade students must submit documentation of the Tdap and Meningococcal vaccines before they begin school in August. Twelfth-grade students must submit documentation of the Meningococcal vaccine. Get more information on all student immunization requirements.

💪 Let's Finish the School Year Strong!

• Student attendance at school is important all year long, up to the last day of school. Attendance has an effect on student performance and on school accreditation. See how to:

• Check your child’s attendance record.
• Help your student stay engaged at school.
• Report future absences.
• Understand the FCPS school calendar.

Learn more about attendance resources.

📞 FCPS Ombuds Provides Confidential Guidance

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

Anyone seeking assistance from the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected], visit their webpage, or submit a question. Ombuds staff do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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.

• Week 33 at Timber Lane ES
• ATTENTION ALL BAND AND STRINGS STUDENTS!
• Kindergarten Orientation May 3
• Heritage Night Poster Making May 3 12:30-2:00PM
• Calendar Reminders
• Bike & Roll/Walk & Roll to School Day May 8
• Summer Arts Camp
• Longfellow Middle School News for Rising 7th Graders
• ⛱️ Summer Camp for Middle Schoolers
• ✅ School Health Services Satisfaction Survey
• Give Your Feedback on the Budget
• 🗳️ Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award
• Summer Programs
• Tutor.com Dashboard
• Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup
• 💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

Week 33 at Timber Lane ES

Dear TLES Community,

This past week we celebrated Earth Week! The festivities kicked off with tree planting ceremonies led by our dedicated Girl Scout troops. Throughout the week, there were engaging activities for all grade levels designed to raise awareness about environmental stewardship. A vertical garden, or "grow tower," was installed in the lobby, while students got their hands dirty by planting seeds and even trees. Creativity flowed as students constructed sail cars, snap circuits, and classrooms delved into the fascinating world of life cycles. The week also offered valuable lessons on protecting our precious watersheds. It was a successful Earth Week at TLES, filled with learning and action! 

A special thank you to Mrs. Nelson, Mrs. Grabel, Mr. Chiet, and our parent and Master Gardner, Lori Krishnan, for their collaboration in making this impactful Earth Week a reality and one to remember! 

ATTENTION ALL BAND AND STRINGS STUDENTS!

ATTENTION ALL BAND AND STRINGS STUDENTS!

 

Reminder: SPRING CONCERT Tuesday, April 30th

Strings: 6:00pm, Band: 6:45pm

Location: Gym

Participation in the concert is expected for ALL Band and Strings Students!

Strings

• Arrive at 5:30pm
• Concert at 6:00pm

Band

• Arrive at 6:15pm
• Concert at 6:45pm

All students should report to the cafeteria when arriving. Students should wear white on top, black on bottom.

Kindergarten Orientation May 3

Calling all families with students who will turn 5 by September 30. We would like to invite you and your child to join us for Kindergarten Orientation on May 3 at 10:00 AM

Heritage Night Poster Making May 3 12:30-2:00PM

Please join us to create a poster to share about your family heritage for Timber Lane’s Heritage Night (May 30th). We will have markers, posters, scissors, and more to help you and your family make this happen!

If you have more questions, contact
[email protected] or your teacher on Talking Points!

Calendar Reminders

April 30 Band & String Concert

April 30 Five Guys Timber Lane ES Community Night

May 3 Teacher Work Day - No School for Students

May 3 Kindergarten Orientation 10:00 AM

May 3 Heritage Night Poster Making TLES Library 12:30 - 2:00 PM

May 8 Walk & Roll to School Day

June 12 Last Day of School (2 hour early release)

 

April Celebrations & Recognitions:

Month of the Military Child

National Arab American Heritage Month

Muslim American Heritage Month

School Library Month

Autism Acceptance Month

Mathematics & Statistics Awareness Month

National Poetry Month

Workforce Readiness Month

Bike & Roll/Walk & Roll to School Day May 8

Join children & adults around the world to the celebrate the benefits of walking & bicycling on May 8.

Last Chance to Order a Year Book!

Order Your Yearbook Today

Visit https://www.barksdalephoto.com/ & enter the access code: 0038655YB to order your yearbook. 

Summer Arts Camp

Don’t miss out on this summer’s most exciting arts enrichment program! At Elementary Institute for the Arts (E-IFTA), students take art, music, theater, and dance classes daily. E-IFTA is for current second through fifth grade students. Learn more on the E-IFTA webpage. Email [email protected] with any questions.

Longfellow Middle School News for Rising 7th Graders

Spring Open House – April 30, 2024

We cordially invite all our Rising 7th & New FCPS families to our Spring Open House on Tuesday, April 30th from 6:30-7:30pm. During this time, you will have an opportunity to tour LMS and ask any questions you may have to prepare for the 23-24 school year. We look forward to seeing you soon! 

Jump Start Registration Now Open!

Jump Start registration is now open on myschoolbucks. Choose between session 1 – August 5th – 6th or session 2 – August 7th – 8th.  

Hours are 8:30a.m. – 12:00p.m. Look forward to learning about Longfellow with school tours, ice breakers, scavenger hunts, team building and more. If you have any questions, contact Lavina Gangwani-Colaco at [email protected]

⛱️ Summer Camp for Middle Schoolers

All rising middle schoolers are invited to attend a summer of fun and leisure with VIP Camp. VIP Camp — which takes place Monday, July 1, to Thursday, August 1 — is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. 

Registration is open. VIP Camp costs $100 to attend. Reach out to your school's after-school specialist for scholarship availability due to financial hardship. This camp is sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services.

✅ School Health Services Satisfaction Survey

The Fairfax County Health Department and FCPS School Health Services invite parents/caregivers to participate in a survey on the level of satisfaction with support provided to your school community by School Health Services. The survey takes about five minutes to complete and is open until Friday, April 26. Your feedback can help to improve school health services.

Give Your Feedback on the Budget

We are now in the middle of the annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback:

• Tuesday, May 7: The County Board of Supervisors adopts its budget, tax rates, and transfer amount to FCPS. 
• Tuesday, May 14: The School Board holds a public hearing on the FCPS budget.
• Thursday, May 23: The School Board adopts FCPS’ approved budget.

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2025 Advertised Budget and see the full Budget Development Calendar.

🗳️ Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award

The Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) sponsors the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award to honor the legacy of Dr. Bussey, a founding member of the MSAOC and a longtime advocate for students and families. Read more about Dr. Bussey. 

This award recognizes staff or community members who have demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.

Any FCPS employee, student, or community member can nominate an individual or group for the award. All nomination materials must be submitted by Wednesday, May 1.  The winner will be recognized at the FCPS Equity Symposium on Tuesday, June 18.

Full details and the nomination information form are available on the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award webpage.

Summer Programs

Registration is now open for several summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. 

Tech Adventure Camp is available for current grade K-5 students to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for elementary students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

Tutor.com Dashboard

Tutor.com Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Through Schoology®, all FCPS students have 24/7 access to no-cost, year-round, on-demand, 1-to-1 tutoring services through Tutor.com.

A new Teacher-Referred Tutoring program feature provides targeted support and extends student learning. Teachers can now refer students for tutoring, with their specific needs already identified. Students can get extra support — on their own schedule — and reinforce their in-class learning.

Caregivers can guide students to access expert tutoring, homework help, and writing support by clicking on the Tutor.com icon in their Schoology portal—anytime, anywhere.

Plus, look for teachers’ tutoring session referrals on the Tutor.com homepage.

Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup

Good evening TLES, for parents interested in supporting our weekend food pick up at Trader Joe's and distribution at TLES, please find this sign-up form:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E4AA9A628A1FE3-tles#/

These weekend events only take approximately 30 minutes of your time in between pick up and distribution at TLES.  Thank you for helping us help our community!

💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

1. Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
3. Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
1. Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
2. Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
3. Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
4. Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
5. The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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.

• Week 15 - 19 at Timber Lane ES
• Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon
• Calendar Reminders
• Bike & Roll/Walk & Roll to School Day May 8
• Passover and Half-O Days
• Summer Arts Camp
• Family Summit Designed to Enhance Safety, Security, and Inclusion
• Longfellow Middle School News for Rising 7th Graders
• ⛱️ Summer Camp for Middle Schoolers
• ✅ School Health Services Satisfaction Survey
• 🎓 Postsecondary Education and Employment Options
• Give Your Feedback on the Budget
• 🗳️ Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award
• Summer Programs
• Tutor.com Dashboard
• Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup
• 💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

Week 15 - 19 at Timber Lane ES

Credit: D Biggs(FCPS) kinder, 3rd grade lunch bunch, 4th recess, Journey North

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon

FCPS students in grades 3-12 took the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener during March, providing updated information on skills such as achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. The SEL Screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. 

In late April, individual student SEL Screener results will be available for families in the Documents section of SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent via postal mail. 

Get more information about the screener on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For support in understanding your individual student’s results or ideas on how to support them at home, please review the Family Guide or contact your student’s [counselor, Ms. Albrite & Ms. Gastaldo. 

Calendar Reminders

April 22, 23 Passover (O Days)

April 22-26 Earth Week

April 30 Five Guys Timber Lane ES Community Night

May 3 Kindergarten Orientation 10:00 AM

May 8 Walk & Roll to School Day

June 12 Last Day of School (2 hour early release)

April Celebrations & Recognitions:

Month of the Military Child

National Arab American Heritage Month

Muslim American Heritage Month

School Library Month

Autism Acceptance Month

Mathematics & Statistics Awareness Month

National Poetry Month

Workforce Readiness Month

Bike & Roll/Walk & Roll to School Day May 8

Join children & adults around the world to the celebrate the benefits of walking & bicycling on May 8.

Order Your Year Book Today!

Order Your Yearbook Today

Visit https://www.barksdalephoto.com/ & enter the access code: 0038655YB to order your yearbook. 

Passover and Half-O Days

Many Jewish communities in the United States celebrate Passover, a recognition of the deliverance of Jewish people from slavery in Egypt. Passover is also known as Pesah, Pesach, or the Feast of Unleavened Bread. Many Jewish families in the United States eat a ceremonial meal known as the Seder, which involves telling the story of the exodus from Egypt as well as eating various symbolic foods, such as meat of the paschal lamb and bitter herbs, recalling the harsh life of slavery. Learn more about Passover in NatGeo Kids. 

Monday, April 22, and Tuesday, April 23, are designated half-O days in recognition of the first two days of Passover. Half-O days are full school days, but important events will not be held after school on those days. See the complete school year calendar.

Summer Arts Camp

Don’t miss out on this summer’s most exciting arts enrichment program! At Elementary Institute for the Arts (E-IFTA), students take art, music, theater, and dance classes daily. E-IFTA is for current second through fifth grade students. Learn more on the E-IFTA webpage. Email [email protected] with any questions.

Family Summit Designed to Enhance Safety, Security, and Inclusion

The FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families such as raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. Participants may also join online sessions, which will provide supports for students with disabilities and their families. 

Visit the Family Summit webpage to learn about the guest speakers and to register for the event. The theme — Safe, Supported, and Included — aligns with Goal 2 of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

Longfellow Middle School News for Rising 7th Graders

Spring Open House – April 30, 2024

We cordially invite all our Rising 7th & New FCPS families to our Spring Open House on Tuesday, April 30th from 6:30-7:30pm. During this time, you will have an opportunity to tour LMS and ask any questions you may have to prepare for the 23-24 school year. We look forward to seeing you soon! 

Jump Start Registration Now Open!

Jump Start registration is now open on myschoolbucks. Choose between session 1 – August 5th – 6th or session 2 – August 7th – 8th.  

Hours are 8:30a.m. – 12:00p.m. Look forward to learning about Longfellow with school tours, ice breakers, scavenger hunts, team building and more. If you have any questions, contact Lavina Gangwani-Colaco at [email protected]

⛱️ Summer Camp for Middle Schoolers

All rising middle schoolers are invited to attend a summer of fun and leisure with VIP Camp. VIP Camp — which takes place Monday, July 1, to Thursday, August 1 — is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. 

Registration is open. VIP Camp costs $100 to attend. Reach out to your school's after-school specialist for scholarship availability due to financial hardship. This camp is sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services.

✅ School Health Services Satisfaction Survey

The Fairfax County Health Department and FCPS School Health Services invite parents/caregivers to participate in a survey on the level of satisfaction with support provided to your school community by School Health Services. The survey takes about five minutes to complete and is open until Friday, April 26. Your feedback can help to improve school health services.

🎓 Postsecondary Education and Employment Options

FCPS’ Career and Transition Services will host Flash Forward, to provide students with disabilities seeking a standard or advanced diploma and their families an introduction to options available after high school. 

Flash Forward will be held Thursday, April 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Annandale High School, in the cafeteria. Register online. Representatives from adult education, employment, and community programs (college, military, apprenticeship, trade school, gap year, and employment) will be on site to share information about their services.

Give Your Feedback on the Budget

We are now in the middle of the annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback:

• Tuesday, May 7: The County Board of Supervisors adopts its budget, tax rates, and transfer amount to FCPS. 
• Tuesday, May 14: The School Board holds a public hearing on the FCPS budget.
• Thursday, May 23: The School Board adopts FCPS’ approved budget.

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2025 Advertised Budget and see the full Budget Development Calendar.

🗳️ Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award

The Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) sponsors the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award to honor the legacy of Dr. Bussey, a founding member of the MSAOC and a longtime advocate for students and families. Read more about Dr. Bussey. 

This award recognizes staff or community members who have demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.

Any FCPS employee, student, or community member can nominate an individual or group for the award. All nomination materials must be submitted by Wednesday, May 1.  The winner will be recognized at the FCPS Equity Symposium on Tuesday, June 18.

Full details and the nomination information form are available on the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award webpage.

Summer Programs

Registration is now open for several summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. 

Tech Adventure Camp is available for current grade K-5 students to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for elementary students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

Tutor.com Dashboard

Tutor.com Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Through Schoology®, all FCPS students have 24/7 access to no-cost, year-round, on-demand, 1-to-1 tutoring services through Tutor.com.

A new Teacher-Referred Tutoring program feature provides targeted support and extends student learning. Teachers can now refer students for tutoring, with their specific needs already identified. Students can get extra support — on their own schedule — and reinforce their in-class learning.

Caregivers can guide students to access expert tutoring, homework help, and writing support by clicking on the Tutor.com icon in their Schoology portal—anytime, anywhere.

Plus, look for teachers’ tutoring session referrals on the Tutor.com homepage.

Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup

Good evening TLES, for parents interested in supporting our weekend food pick up at Trader Joe's and distribution at TLES, please find this sign-up form:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E4AA9A628A1FE3-tles#/

These weekend events only take approximately 30 minutes of your time in between pick up and distribution at TLES.  Thank you for helping us help our community!

💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

1. Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
3. Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
1. Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
2. Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
3. Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
4. Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
5. The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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.

• Disappearing Messages? Is Snapchat Safe for Your Teen?
• Calendar Reminders
• National Arab American Heritage Month
• 💻 April Webinars and Events for Families
• Family Summit Designed to Enhance Safety, Security, and Inclusion
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Immigrant Family Reunification Class
• Longfellow Middle School News for Rising 7th Graders
• ⛱️ Summer Camp for Middle Schoolers
• ✅ School Health Services Satisfaction Survey
• 🎓 Postsecondary Education and Employment Options
• Give Your Feedback on the Budget
• 🗳️ Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award
• Summer Programs
• Tutor.com Dashboard
• Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup
• 💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

Disappearing Messages? Is Snapchat Safe for Your Teen?

While Snapchat is popular with teens for its disappearing messages and fun filters, families may worry about safety and hidden features. This Common Sense Media article offers a guide for families, explaining how Snapchat works, potential risks, and how to keep teens safe while using the app. 

https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/parents-ultimate-guide-to-snapchat

Calendar Reminders

April 12 TLES Spring Clean Up 9:00-12:00 PM

April 17 Purple Up Day

April 17 PTA Meeting

April 18 Spring Picture Day

April 22, 23 Passover (O Days)

June 12 Last Day of School (2 hr early release)

April Celebrations & Recognitions:

Month of the Military Child

National Arab American Heritage Month

Muslim American Heritage Month

School Library Month

Autism Acceptance Month

Mathematics & Statistics Awareness Month

National Poetry Month

Workforce Readiness Month

Order Your Year Book Today!

Order Your Yearbook Today

Visit https://www.barksdalephoto.com/ & enter the access code: 0038655YB to order your yearbook. 

National Arab American Heritage Month

FCPS is proud to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in April. This special month provides an opportunity to recognize the history and valuable contributions of Arab Americans. Arab Americans have ancestry in one of the world’s 22 Arab nations, which are located from northern Africa through western Asia. The people of these nations are ethnically, politically, and religiously diverse but share a common cultural and linguistic heritage. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

💻 April Webinars and Events for Families

The Family Resource Center (FRC) offers free webinars for adults to support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Upcoming events include:

• Tuesday, April 16, 7-8 p.m. – Meet the Author Series: Gifted and Distractible with Julie Skolnick
• Wednesday, April 17, 4-6 p.m. – NOVA 2024 Vision - Students with disabilities can learn more about attending Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA). 
• Friday, April 19, 10-11:30 a.m. – Behavior Solution Series: Proactive Strategies for Effective Communication with Teens
• Tuesday, April 30, 10-11:30 a.m. – Counseling Services in Virginia for Mental Health and Substance Abuse: How to Get the Help You Desire

Click the linked titles above to register. Learn more about FRC webinars and events.

Family Summit Designed to Enhance Safety, Security, and Inclusion

The FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families such as raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. Participants may also join online sessions, which will provide supports for students with disabilities and their families. 

Visit the Family Summit webpage to learn about the guest speakers and to register for the event. The theme — Safe, Supported, and Included — aligns with Goal 2 of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Immigrant Family Reunification Class

A class will be held online in Spanish for immigrant families looking to reunite during challenging transitions. Saturday classes will be available April 13, 20, or 27, from 9-11:30 a.m. Register online. For more information, please contact Margarite Baptiste at [email protected] or Sussy Tomer at [email protected].

Longfellow Middle School News for Rising 7th Graders

Spring Open House – April 30, 2024

We cordially invite all our Rising 7th & New FCPS families to our Spring Open House on Tuesday, April 30th from 6:30-7:30pm. During this time, you will have an opportunity to tour LMS and ask any questions you may have to prepare for the 23-24 school year. We look forward to seeing you soon! 

Jump Start Registration Now Open!

Jump Start registration is now open on myschoolbucks. Choose between session 1 – August 5th – 6th or session 2 – August 7th – 8th.  

Hours are 8:30a.m. – 12:00p.m. Look forward to learning about Longfellow with school tours, ice breakers, scavenger hunts, team building and more. If you have any questions, contact Lavina Gangwani-Colaco at [email protected]

⛱️ Summer Camp for Middle Schoolers

All rising middle schoolers are invited to attend a summer of fun and leisure with VIP Camp. VIP Camp — which takes place Monday, July 1, to Thursday, August 1 — is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. 

Registration is open. VIP Camp costs $100 to attend. Reach out to your school's after-school specialist for scholarship availability due to financial hardship. This camp is sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services.

✅ School Health Services Satisfaction Survey

The Fairfax County Health Department and FCPS School Health Services invite parents/caregivers to participate in a survey on the level of satisfaction with support provided to your school community by School Health Services. The survey takes about five minutes to complete and is open until Friday, April 26. Your feedback can help to improve school health services.

🎓 Postsecondary Education and Employment Options

FCPS’ Career and Transition Services will host Flash Forward, to provide students with disabilities seeking a standard or advanced diploma and their families an introduction to options available after high school. 

Flash Forward will be held Thursday, April 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Annandale High School, in the cafeteria. Register online. Representatives from adult education, employment, and community programs (college, military, apprenticeship, trade school, gap year, and employment) will be on site to share information about their services.

Give Your Feedback on the Budget

We are now in the middle of the annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback:

• Tuesday, April 16, through Thursday, April 18: The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors conducts public hearings on the county budget. Sign up to speak.  
• Tuesday, May 7: The County Board of Supervisors adopts its budget, tax rates, and transfer amount to FCPS. 
• Tuesday, May 14: The School Board holds a public hearing on the FCPS budget.
• Thursday, May 23: The School Board adopts FCPS’ approved budget.

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2025 Advertised Budget and see the full Budget Development Calendar.

🗳️ Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award

The Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) sponsors the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award to honor the legacy of Dr. Bussey, a founding member of the MSAOC and a longtime advocate for students and families. Read more about Dr. Bussey. 

This award recognizes staff or community members who have demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.

Any FCPS employee, student, or community member can nominate an individual or group for the award. All nomination materials must be submitted by Wednesday, May 1.  The winner will be recognized at the FCPS Equity Symposium on Tuesday, June 18.

Full details and the nomination information form are available on the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award webpage.

🏅 Nominations Open for First Class Award for Inclusion

The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the First Class Awards. The awards are presented annually to educators, administrators, and students who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The ACSD will recognize award winners at the Family Summit on Saturday, April 20. 

Nominate an individual who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools by Friday, March 22. Email [email protected] with questions.

Summer Programs

Registration is now open for several summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. 

Tech Adventure Camp is available for current grade K-5 students to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for elementary students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

Tutor.com Dashboard

Tutor.com Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Through Schoology®, all FCPS students have 24/7 access to no-cost, year-round, on-demand, 1-to-1 tutoring services through Tutor.com.

A new Teacher-Referred Tutoring program feature provides targeted support and extends student learning. Teachers can now refer students for tutoring, with their specific needs already identified. Students can get extra support — on their own schedule — and reinforce their in-class learning.

Caregivers can guide students to access expert tutoring, homework help, and writing support by clicking on the Tutor.com icon in their Schoology portal—anytime, anywhere.

Plus, look for teachers’ tutoring session referrals on the Tutor.com homepage.

Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup

Good evening TLES, for parents interested in supporting our weekend food pick up at Trader Joe's and distribution at TLES, please find this sign-up form:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E4AA9A628A1FE3-tles#/

These weekend events only take approximately 30 minutes of your time in between pick up and distribution at TLES.  Thank you for helping us help our community!

💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

1. Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
3. Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
1. Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
2. Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
3. Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
4. Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
5. The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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.

• Principals' Update
• National Assistant Principals Week
• School Librarian Day
• Calendar Reminders
• Month of the Military Child
• Register Today for the FCPS Family Summit
• ⛱️ Summer Camp for Middle Schoolers
• 📖 Lexia Parent Night: How We Help Your Child Learn to Read
• ⏰ Community Forums on Middle School Start Times
• 🏫 Advertised Budget Focuses on Schools and Instruction
• Register Today for the Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet School Lottery
• 🗳️ Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award
• Summer Programs
• Tutor.com Dashboard
• Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup
• 💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

Principals' Update

Dear TLES Families,

A solar eclipse is happening on April 8, 2024. It's a rare and exciting astronomical phenomenon and one that requires important safety reminders.

Looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can permanently damage your eyes. At Timber Lane, we have been able to collect approved eyewear so that students can safely view the eclipse ONLY while wearing the eyewear. We are so appreciative of our TLES PTA who purchased approved eyewear for all students and staff. Thank you so much!

 Here are some important reminders:

• Don't look at the sun without approved eyewear. This applies to students and staff, and we encourage you to reinforce it at home. 
• Regular sunglasses are not good enough. We will be providing eyewear that has been approved for viewing.

 Eclipse timing: The eclipse starts around 2:04 p.m., peaks at 3:20 p.m. (which coincides with dismissal for some students), and ends around 4:32 p.m. If you have concerns about your child walking or riding the bus home, please arrange for alternative transportation.

For more details, visit the FCPS Solar Eclipse webpage.

Sincerely,

Ben Chiet, Shele Banford, & Coretta Brown

National Assistant Principals Week

Timber Lane ES is privileged to have two outstanding Assistant Principals, Shele Banford & Coretta Brown. We are so thankful for all you do to support students and staff at Timber Lane.

Join NASSP, the National Association of Elementary School Principals, and the American Federation of School Administrators in honoring the enormous contributions of assistant principals to student success.

School Librarian Day

School Librarian Day was April 4. Timber Lane ES has an amazing Librarian, Lisa Russell. Ms. Russell has created a space at Timber Lane where students develop knowledge & skills, experience a sense of belonging, find inspiration and support, and have the ability to freely pursue their personal interests and academic growth. Thank you Ms. Russell.

Watch this video to learn how FCPS librarians make a difference.

Calendar Reminders

April 10 Eid-al-Fitr Student Holiday

April 12 TLES Spring Clean Up 9:00-12:00 PM

April 17 PTA Meeting

April 18 Spring Picture Day

 

April Celebrations & Recognitions:

Month of the Military Child

National Arab American Heritage Month

Muslim American Heritage Month

School Library Month

Autism Acceptance Month

Mathematics & Statistics Awareness Month

National Poetry Month

Workforce Readiness Month

Eid al-Fitr (Half-O day on April 9, Holiday on April 10)

Eid al-Fitr, also known as small Eid, marks the end of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting, and is celebrated during the first three days of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims congregate that morning for Eid prayers. It is a time of official receptions and private visits, when friends greet one another, presents are given, new clothes are worn, and the graves of relatives are visited. The most common way to wish someone a Happy Eid al-Fitr is Eid Mubarak, which means “blessed feast” (or festival).

Order Your Year Book Today!

Order Your Yearbook Today

Visit https://www.barksdalephoto.com/ & enter the access code: 0038655YB to order your yearbook. 

Month of the Military Child

April is the Month of the Military Child! Every year we take the opportunity to recognize military-connected youth for their service and contribution to our community. Fairfax County Public Schools is proud to have over 14,000 military-connected youth as a part of our student body. We appreciate the varied life experiences they bring to our school community, and recognize their strength and resilience. Learn more about Month of the Military Child and FCPS’ resources for military families.

Register Today for the FCPS Family Summit

• Registration is open for the FCPS Family Summit, which will take place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families, such as social-emotional resources, along with a specially curated online component to provide supports for students with disabilities and their families.

Some of the topics include raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. The theme — Safe, Supported, and Included — aligns with Goal 2 of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

⛱️ Summer Camp for Middle Schoolers

All rising middle schoolers are invited to attend a summer of fun and leisure with VIP Camp. VIP Camp — which takes place Monday, July 1, to Thursday, August 1 — is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. 

Registration is open. VIP Camp costs $100 to attend. Reach out to your school's after-school specialist for scholarship availability due to financial hardship. This camp is sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services.

📖 Lexia Parent Night: How We Help Your Child Learn to Read

FCPS funds the use of Lexia for all elementary and middle schools as part of their literacy instruction. Lexia is a computer-based program that supplements classroom instruction to help students develop literacy skills. It also provides teachers with data to identify students who need additional support and the ability to know which specific concepts and skills to prioritize.

Attend a virtual information night on Tuesday, April 9, to learn more about Lexia and how FCPS is integrating it into the classroom to support student growth. Participants will also get tips for supporting their students at home. Integrating Lexia into the literacy curriculum aligns with the Virginia Literacy Act, FCPS’ Equitable Access to Literacy, and FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3, which aims to have all students reading on level by the end of third grade.

⏰ Community Forums on Middle School Start Times

Fairfax County Public Schools is exploring options for adjusting middle school start times and invites the public to be part of the process. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Please attend the event that works best for your schedule: 

• Monday, April 29, 6-8 p.m., at Glasgow Middle School. 
• Monday, May 6, 6-8 p.m., at Whitman Middle School.
• Monday, May 20, 6-8 p.m., at Hughes Middle School.
• Wednesday, May 22, 6-8 p.m., at Frost Middle School. 

Registration is not required but does help with planning. Click one of the dates above to register. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times. 

🏫 Advertised Budget Focuses on Schools and Instruction

Investing in excellence means putting our dollars where it matters most — schools and instruction. Nearly 93% of FCPS full-time staff work directly in our schools. And nearly 86% of FCPS’ Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Advertised Budget is dedicated to instructional programs across all grade levels, including special education. 

Only 5% of the advertised budget is for general support and central administration. Central office administrators represent only 0.8% of total full-time positions.

For more details on FCPS’ advertised budget, view budget documents, including the FY 2025 Budget Book. 

Check out the Budget Calendar for important dates in the budget process as well as opportunities for the community to provide feedback. 

Register Today for the Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet School Lottery

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. Registration for the 2024-25 elementary magnet lottery is open through Friday, April 12. Learn more about the schools, their programs, and locations.

🗳️ Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award

The Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) sponsors the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award to honor the legacy of Dr. Bussey, a founding member of the MSAOC and a longtime advocate for students and families. Read more about Dr. Bussey. 

This award recognizes staff or community members who have demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.

Any FCPS employee, student, or community member can nominate an individual or group for the award. All nomination materials must be submitted by Wednesday, May 1.  The winner will be recognized at the FCPS Equity Symposium on Tuesday, June 18.

Full details and the nomination information form are available on the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award webpage.

🏅 Nominations Open for First Class Award for Inclusion

The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the First Class Awards. The awards are presented annually to educators, administrators, and students who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The ACSD will recognize award winners at the Family Summit on Saturday, April 20. 

Nominate an individual who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools by Friday, March 22. Email [email protected] with questions.

Summer Programs

Registration is now open for several summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. 

Tech Adventure Camp is available for current grade K-5 students to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for elementary students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

Tutor.com Dashboard

Tutor.com Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Through Schoology®, all FCPS students have 24/7 access to no-cost, year-round, on-demand, 1-to-1 tutoring services through Tutor.com.

A new Teacher-Referred Tutoring program feature provides targeted support and extends student learning. Teachers can now refer students for tutoring, with their specific needs already identified. Students can get extra support — on their own schedule — and reinforce their in-class learning.

Caregivers can guide students to access expert tutoring, homework help, and writing support by clicking on the Tutor.com icon in their Schoology portal—anytime, anywhere.

Plus, look for teachers’ tutoring session referrals on the Tutor.com homepage.

Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup

Good evening TLES, for parents interested in supporting our weekend food pick up at Trader Joe's and distribution at TLES, please find this sign-up form:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E4AA9A628A1FE3-tles#/

These weekend events only take approximately 30 minutes of your time in between pick up and distribution at TLES.  Thank you for helping us help our community!

💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

1. Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
3. Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
1. Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
2. Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
3. Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
4. Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
5. The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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.

• Principals' Update
• Rotary Club of McLean Visit Timber Lane ES
• Calendar Reminders
• Safe, Supported, and Included — the FCPS Family Summit 2024
• ⛱️ Summer Camp for Middle Schoolers
• 📖 Lexia Parent Night: How We Help Your Child Learn to Read
• Mediation & Reflection Spaces
• ☀️ Safely View the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8
• 🌎Support Earth Week at TLES! 🌍
• 🏐 New Athletic Opportunities for Students
• McLean Pyramid Youth Art Month Show
• Equity in Education Month
• Summer Programs
• 🩹 Measles Is Preventable
• Tutor.com Dashboard
• Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup
• 💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

Principals' Update

Dear TLES Community,

Congratulations on helping us achieve a successful third quarter of the school year!  Throughout this quarter, our staff's continued collaboration and their willingness to share and implement newly learned instructional strategies has been truly commendable. By embracing new challenges and working together seamlessly, they have created enriching experiences for our students that deepen and enrich learning. We are continually inspired by their dedication to professional learning, which has not only enhanced their own skills but has also led to innovative approaches in supporting student success, particularly in the area of writing, STEAM, and integration of Portrait of a Graduate skills.

We must also express our heartfelt appreciation to our families for their unwavering support throughout the quarter. Your trust and collaboration are invaluable pillars of our school community, and we are truly grateful for your partnership in your child's education journey.

Additionally, we extend our deepest thanks to our dedicated PTA for orchestrating a highly successful spring fundraiser. Your hard work and dedication continue to make a profound difference in the opportunities and resources we can offer to our students.

In closing, we want to emphasize the immeasurable love and care our staff consistently provides to our students and to each other, day in and day out. Their compassion and dedication truly set the foundation for a nurturing and supportive school environment that fosters growth and success.

As we embark on this last quarter of the school year, let us carry forward the spirit of collaboration and love that defines our school community. Together, there is no limit to what we can achieve!

With gratitude,

Ben Chiet, Shele Banford, & Coretta Brown

Rotary Club of McLean Visit Timber Lane ES

The Rotary Club of McLean is dedicated to supporting literacy at Timber Lane Elementary School in Falls Church, VA. The Love of Reading Program was championed by the Club seventeen years ago through an annual grant to the school to purchase books to give the students. It remains strong and active today. Club members alongside invited community members select a day to read the grade level books to students Pre-K thru Second Grade. To see the smiles on the faces of the students makes it one of the most impactful community service projects. Thank you to Rotarians Tom Mangan, Ray Petniunas, Pamela Danner, Frank Peterson, Dr. Lois Wilson, John McEvilly, Paul Kohlenberger, Janine Frank, Cecilia Closs, Michael Falcone, and Dr. Deborah Jackson. The community members included Ling Mangan, Steve Maiden, and Tanya Ward.

Calendar Reminders

March 13 - 30 McLean Pyramid Art 

March 25-29 Spring Break

April 1 & 2 Student Holidays 

April 10 Eid-al-Fitr Student Holiday

March Celebrations & Recognitions:

National Women's' History Month

Equity in Education Month

Disability Awareness Month

Celebrating Arts in our Schools Month

National Nutrition Month

Safe, Supported, and Included — the FCPS Family Summit 2024

The FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Marshall High School. The conference will cover topics that are helpful for all families, such as social-emotional resources, along with a specially curated online component to provide supports for students with disabilities and their families. 

Some of the topics include raising resilient, independent children; forming meaningful connections with children; addressing big emotions; and the dangers of opioids and fentanyl. The conference is being planned by several FCPS offices in collaboration with the Fairfax Alliance of Black School Educators, Black Women’s Educational Alliance - DC Chapter, Hispanic Educators Association, and Asian Educators Association. 

This year’s theme is Safe, Supported, and Included, which aligns with Goal 2 of the FCPS Strategic Plan. More details will be available after spring break. 

⛱️ Summer Camp for Middle Schoolers

All rising middle schoolers are invited to attend a summer of fun and leisure with VIP Camp. VIP Camp — which takes place Monday, July 1, to Thursday, August 1 — is designed to encourage teens to develop healthy and positive recreation interests and features a wide variety of leisure activities and programs. 

Registration is open. VIP Camp costs $100 to attend. Reach out to your school's after-school specialist for scholarship availability due to financial hardship. This camp is sponsored by Fairfax County Public Schools and Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services.

📖 Lexia Parent Night: How We Help Your Child Learn to Read

FCPS funds the use of Lexia for all elementary and middle schools as part of their literacy instruction. Lexia is a computer-based program that supplements classroom instruction to help students develop literacy skills. It also provides teachers with data to identify students who need additional support and the ability to know which specific concepts and skills to prioritize.

Attend a virtual information night on Tuesday, April 9, to learn more about Lexia and how FCPS is integrating it into the classroom to support student growth. Participants will also get tips for supporting their students at home. Integrating Lexia into the literacy curriculum aligns with the Virginia Literacy Act, FCPS’ Equitable Access to Literacy, and FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3, which aims to have all students reading on level by the end of third grade.

Mediation & Reflection Spaces

FCPS has developed Regulation 1502 to ensure all students and staff have reasonable accommodation and access to meditation and silent reflection spaces within the school division. The regulation provides guidance for schools on how to manage requests for silent reflection during instructional and non-instructional time, and for students to leave school for religious activities.

These spaces are designated areas for individuals to engage in prayer, meditation, or silent reflection, inclusive of their religious or non-religious beliefs. Parents/caregivers must provide written permission for students requesting to miss instructional time on a regular basis. Families are encouraged to contact Mr. Chiet regarding accommodations. View Regulation 1502. Visit FCPS' Guidelines for Religious Activities webpage for more information.

☀️ Safely View the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8

A total solar eclipse will occur on Monday, April 8, and will be viewable, depending on weather, in Fairfax County. The eclipse will begin in our area around 2:04 p.m. and end around 4:32 p.m., with the maximum eclipse occurring around 3:20 p.m.  

Because the timing overlaps with dismissal, it is crucial that students understand the importance of safe viewing practices. We encourage families to review these Solar Eclipse Resources, especially the eye safety information. We hope everyone takes the opportunity to learn more about this extraordinary natural phenomenon while prioritizing safe solar viewing.

🌎Support Earth Week at TLES! 🌍

Dear ​TLES Community Partners,  

Timber Lane Elementary School will be participating in Earth Day 2024 and needs your help! Earth Day is an opportunity to celebrate our planet by promoting awareness for environmental protection.   We have designed a schoolwide event to celebrate Earth Day while educating our students in learning activities involving renewable energy, environmental stewardship, and energy conservation.  In order to commemorate this important event, we would like to purchase TLES Earth Day T-shirts for all students and staff and are offering sponsorships where local and national companies can add their logo to the back of the T-shirts. 

Please help if you can. Our planet depends on it! Checks should be made payable to Timber Lane ES & can be left with Ms. Noland. 

Sincerely,

Louise Nelson

STEAM Coach

Timber Lane Elementary School

[email protected]

🏐 New Athletic Opportunities for Students

The FCPS advertised budget for next school year expands high school athletics with boys volleyball and girls wrestling, giving students more ways to nurture their passion and enhance their well-being. FCPS is now in the middle of the annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback. See the Budget Calendar for details. Learn more about the FCPS FY 2025 Advertised Budget.

McLean Pyramid Youth Art Month Show

Show Opens – Wednesday, March 13th

Reception – Thursday, March 14, 4:30 to 6:00 pm

Show Closes – Saturday March 30th

Gallery Open Hours – McLean Project for the Arts (MPA) https://mpaart.org, 703-790-1953

Tuesdays through Fridays 1-4pm

Saturdays 10am-3pm

Address  – 1234 Ingleside Avenue, McLean, VA 22101

Equity in Education Month

FCPS — in conjunction with the Virginia School Boards Association — observes March as Equity in Education Month, a division-wide opportunity to deepen our commitment to creating a climate and curriculum where all students receive the resources they need to reach their fullest potential. 

🏅 Nominations Open for First Class Award for Inclusion

The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the First Class Awards. The awards are presented annually to educators, administrators, and students who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The ACSD will recognize award winners at the Family Summit on Saturday, April 20. 

Nominate an individual who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools by Friday, March 22. Email [email protected] with questions.

Summer Programs

Registration is now open for several summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. 

Tech Adventure Camp is available for current grade K-5 students to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for elementary students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

🩹 Measles Is Preventable

Measles is making headlines as the number of cases nationwide has topped 40, with three confirmed cases in people living in or traveling through the National Capital Region. 

The good news is that measles is preventable through vaccination! Vaccines help teach the immune system how to defend against germs, helping to build up natural defenses. Give your child the best protection against measles with two doses of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Visit the Fairfax County Health Department website to find out more about measles.

Extended Hours at Immunization Clinics

To help parents/caregivers obtain vaccinations for their children, the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) will offer immunization clinics with extended hours:

 

• Thursday, March 21, 4:30-7:30 p.m., Joseph Willard Health Center.Walk-ins are accepted until 7 p.m.
• Friday, March 22, 1-5:30 p.m., Annandale District Office. Walk-ins are accepted until 5 p.m.

Parents/caregivers should make an appointment but a limited number of walk-ins will be accepted. Please call 703-246-7100 to schedule an appointment.

Learn more about vaccinating your child and find community resources to support their health and well-being. 

Note: All students enrolling in public and private schools in Virginia are required to be adequately immunized per the Code of Virginia.

Tutor.com Dashboard

Tutor.com Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Through Schoology®, all FCPS students have 24/7 access to no-cost, year-round, on-demand, 1-to-1 tutoring services through Tutor.com.

A new Teacher-Referred Tutoring program feature provides targeted support and extends student learning. Teachers can now refer students for tutoring, with their specific needs already identified. Students can get extra support — on their own schedule — and reinforce their in-class learning.

Caregivers can guide students to access expert tutoring, homework help, and writing support by clicking on the Tutor.com icon in their Schoology portal—anytime, anywhere.

Plus, look for teachers’ tutoring session referrals on the Tutor.com homepage.

Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup

Good evening TLES, for parents interested in supporting our weekend food pick up at Trader Joe's and distribution at TLES, please find this sign-up form:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E4AA9A628A1FE3-tles#/

These weekend events only take approximately 30 minutes of your time in between pick up and distribution at TLES.  Thank you for helping us help our community!

💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

1. Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
3. Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
1. Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
2. Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
3. Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
4. Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
5. The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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.

• This Week at TLES
• Calendar Reminders
• TLES PTA Spring Auction Ends Tomorrow, March 16!
• Mediation & Reflection Spaces
• ☀️ Safely View the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8
• 🌎Support Earth Week at TLES! 🌍
• Updated COVID-19 Guidance
• McLean Pyramid Youth Art Month Show
• Celebrating Arts in Our Schools
• ✅ Take the Family Engagement Survey!
• Fairfax County’s Funding of the FCPS Budget
• Join a Conversation on Fentanyl and Other Drugs
• Summer Programs
• 🩹 Measles Is Preventable
• Tutor.com Dashboard
• Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup
• 💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

This Week at TLES

Students share their writing with families & teachers, Head Start students explore coding with ozobots

Calendar Reminders

March 9-16 - PTA Auction 

March 13 - 30 McLean Pyramid Art 

March 15-21 Book Fair

March 25-29 Spring Break

April 1 & 2 Student Holidays 

March Celebrations & Recognitions:

National Women's' History Month

Equity in Education Month

Disability Awareness Month

Celebrating Arts in our Schools Month

National Nutrition Month

TLES PTA Spring Auction Ends Tomorrow, March 16!

Get your final bids in!

This year's spring auction will take place from March 9th through March 16th, and you can now preview the nearly 200 confirmed donations online by clicking here. Bidding begins on Saturday March 9th, so you have plenty of time to mark your favorites and share with family, friends, and your community. 

Remember, anyone can bid on items in the auction - whether they are part of the TLES community or not! The PTA would appreciate your support in sharing the auction online via NextDoor, Facebook, etc or posting printed flyers on community bulletin boards you may have access to. You can share this link, or print this flyer.

Mediation & Reflection Spaces

FCPS has developed Regulation 1502 to ensure all students and staff have reasonable accommodation and access to meditation and silent reflection spaces within the school division. The regulation provides guidance for schools on how to manage requests for silent reflection during instructional and non-instructional time, and for students to leave school for religious activities.

These spaces are designated areas for individuals to engage in prayer, meditation, or silent reflection, inclusive of their religious or non-religious beliefs. Parents/caregivers must provide written permission for students requesting to miss instructional time on a regular basis. Families are encouraged to contact Mr. Chiet regarding accommodations. View Regulation 1502. Visit FCPS' Guidelines for Religious Activities webpage for more information.

☀️ Safely View the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8

A total solar eclipse will occur on Monday, April 8, and will be viewable, depending on weather, in Fairfax County. The eclipse will begin in our area around 2:04 p.m. and end around 4:32 p.m., with the maximum eclipse occurring around 3:20 p.m.  

Because the timing overlaps with dismissal, it is crucial that students understand the importance of safe viewing practices. We encourage families to review these Solar Eclipse Resources, especially the eye safety information. We hope everyone takes the opportunity to learn more about this extraordinary natural phenomenon while prioritizing safe solar viewing.

🌎Support Earth Week at TLES! 🌍

Dear ​TLES Community Partners,  

Timber Lane Elementary School will be participating in Earth Day 2024 and needs your help! Earth Day is an opportunity to celebrate our planet by promoting awareness for environmental protection.   We have designed a schoolwide event to celebrate Earth Day while educating our students in learning activities involving renewable energy, environmental stewardship, and energy conservation.  In order to commemorate this important event, we would like to purchase TLES Earth Day T-shirts for all students and staff and are offering sponsorships where local and national companies can add their logo to the back of the T-shirts. 

Please help if you can. Our planet depends on it! Checks should be made payable to Timber Lane ES & can be left with Ms. Noland. 

Sincerely,

Louise Nelson

STEAM Coach

Timber Lane Elementary School

[email protected]

Updated COVID-19 Guidance

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) and the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) have updated school COVID-19 recommendations in accordance with the new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) respiratory virus guidance.  

The COVID-19 isolation period of 5 days is no longer recommended. 

The new respiratory virus guidance applies to respiratory viral illnesses, to include COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). 

Students who have symptoms of, tested positive for, or have been diagnosed with, a respiratory virus e.g., COVID-19, influenza, RSV may return to school when: 

• Student is fever-free for 24 hours without fever reducing medication; AND
• Student’s symptoms have improved or resolved 
• Students should follow additional precautions as outlined per the CDC upon resumption of normal activities

McLean Pyramid Youth Art Month Show

Show Opens – Wednesday, March 13th

Reception – Thursday, March 14, 4:30 to 6:00 pm

Show Closes – Saturday March 30th

Gallery Open Hours – McLean Project for the Arts (MPA) https://mpaart.org, 703-790-1953

Tuesdays through Fridays 1-4pm

Saturdays 10am-3pm

Address  – 1234 Ingleside Avenue, McLean, VA 22101

Celebrating Arts in Our Schools

Background: The Council for Art Education (CFAE) administers Youth Art Month. Youth Art Month encourages support for quality school art programs, and promotes art material safety. The program provides a medium for recognizing skills developed through visual arts experiences unlike any other curriculum subjects, including:

• Problem solving

• Creativity

• Observation

• Communication

Art shows, special exhibits, fundraisers, and school and community activities take place annually, traditionally during March, to celebrate visual art education for grades K-12.

March has also been designated by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) for the observance of Music In Our Schools Month® (MIOSM®), the time of year when music education becomes the focus of schools across the nation. The purpose of MIOSM is to raise awareness of the importance of music education for all children – and to remind citizens that school is where all children should have access to music. MIOSM is an opportunity for music teachers to bring their music programs to the attention of the school and the community, and to display the benefits that school music brings to students of all ages.

Theatre In Our Schools (TIOS) is a celebration of theatre in our schools and schools in our theatres. Sponsored by the American Alliance for Theatre & Education (AATE) and the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA), the goals of TIOS are to raise public awareness of the impact of theatre education and draw attention to the need for more access to quality programs in and out of school for all students. While TIOS presentations and advocacy may happen anytime in schools, theatres, and other public spaces, AATE and EdTA will recognize and promote March as the official Theatre In Our Schools month.

✅ Take the Family Engagement Survey!

If you haven’t already, please take FCPS’ Family Engagement Survey today! Survey results will help us to better recognize, understand, respect, and address family strengths and needs in our school community. Survey topics include:

• Welcoming environment
• Communication
• Student success
• Advocacy 
• Family and school partnerships
• Community partnerships

The survey is available in 10 languages. Please check your email for a message from FCPS partner, K12 Insight, with a link to the survey or access the survey now. Your voice matters!

Fairfax County’s Funding of the FCPS Budget

The average amount of funds transferred from Fairfax County to FCPS was 52.6% of county disbursements from fiscal years (FY) 2019-2023. It dipped to 51.6% in FY 2024. The County’s budget proposal for next year would transfer 51.4% of total disbursements. 

If the county were to return to transferring 52.6% to FCPS for the upcoming year, that would equate to $63 million more to invest in excellence.

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2025 Advertised Budget. Give your feedback on the County budget

Join a Conversation on Fentanyl and Other Drugs

A community conversation on the opioid crisis in Northern Virginia will be held Monday, March 18, 6:30-8 p.m., in the auditorium at Lake Braddock Secondary School. (Please enter through Door #14). Attendees will receive free REVIVE! Narcan training during the event and learn about support services within FCPS and Fairfax County.   

This discussion will provide families, staff, and students with valuable knowledge about the dangers of drugs and deadly fentanyl. The material discussed will be suitable for students in grade 6 and higher. Language interpretation will be available as well as American Sign Language accommodation. Childcare and transportation will also be provided, as needed.

Learn more about the event and register online.

🏅 Nominations Open for First Class Award for Inclusion

The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the First Class Awards. The awards are presented annually to educators, administrators, and students who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The ACSD will recognize award winners at the Family Summit on Saturday, April 20. 

Nominate an individual who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools by Friday, March 22. Email [email protected] with questions.

Summer Programs

Registration is now open for several summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. 

Tech Adventure Camp is available for current grade K-5 students to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for elementary students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

🩹 Measles Is Preventable

Measles is making headlines as the number of cases nationwide has topped 40, with three confirmed cases in people living in or traveling through the National Capital Region. 

The good news is that measles is preventable through vaccination! Vaccines help teach the immune system how to defend against germs, helping to build up natural defenses. Give your child the best protection against measles with two doses of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Visit the Fairfax County Health Department website to find out more about measles.

Extended Hours at Immunization Clinics

To help parents/caregivers obtain vaccinations for their children, the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) will offer immunization clinics with extended hours:

 

• Thursday, March 21, 4:30-7:30 p.m., Joseph Willard Health Center.Walk-ins are accepted until 7 p.m.
• Friday, March 22, 1-5:30 p.m., Annandale District Office. Walk-ins are accepted until 5 p.m.

Parents/caregivers should make an appointment but a limited number of walk-ins will be accepted. Please call 703-246-7100 to schedule an appointment.

Learn more about vaccinating your child and find community resources to support their health and well-being. 

Note: All students enrolling in public and private schools in Virginia are required to be adequately immunized per the Code of Virginia.

Tutor.com Dashboard

Tutor.com Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Through Schoology®, all FCPS students have 24/7 access to no-cost, year-round, on-demand, 1-to-1 tutoring services through Tutor.com.

A new Teacher-Referred Tutoring program feature provides targeted support and extends student learning. Teachers can now refer students for tutoring, with their specific needs already identified. Students can get extra support — on their own schedule — and reinforce their in-class learning.

Caregivers can guide students to access expert tutoring, homework help, and writing support by clicking on the Tutor.com icon in their Schoology portal—anytime, anywhere.

Plus, look for teachers’ tutoring session referrals on the Tutor.com homepage.

Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup

Good evening TLES, for parents interested in supporting our weekend food pick up at Trader Joe's and distribution at TLES, please find this sign-up form:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E4AA9A628A1FE3-tles#/

These weekend events only take approximately 30 minutes of your time in between pick up and distribution at TLES.  Thank you for helping us help our community!

💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

1. Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
3. Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
1. Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
2. Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
3. Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
4. Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
5. The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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.

• This Week at TLES
• National School Social Work Week
• Calendar Reminders
• TLES PTA Spring Auction Begins Tomorrow, March 9!
• Ramadan
• 🌎Support Earth Week at TLES! 🌍
• McLean Pyramid Youth Art Month Show
• National Women’s History Month
• ✅ Take the Family Engagement Survey!
• Bipartisan Study Finds Virginia Public School Divisions Receive Less Funding per Student Than Other States
• Lightspeed Classroom Management
• Wednesday, April 17, Purple Up! Day
• Summer Programs
• Tutor.com Dashboard
• Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup
• 💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

This Week at TLES National School Social Work Week

March 3-9 is National School Social Work Week. Alyssa Hughley is Timber Lane ES' Social Worker. Ms. Hughley's impact & dedication can be measured not only by the amazing work she does but also by the strong relationships she's built with every student and staff member at TLES. Ms. Hughley has been nominated for the 2023-2024 FCPS Social Work Services Impact Award. Thank you for all you do for our school community!

Social workers in FCPS help to prevent social, emotional, and behavioral factors from affecting a student's ability to perform at their best. Their primary goal is to remove barriers that prevent a student from fulfilling their academic potential. Social workers are assigned to every school and center in the school system. Most social workers serve one to two sites. Learn more about the role of social workers in FCPS.

Calendar Reminders

March 9-16 - PTA Auction 

March 13 - 30 McLean Pyramid Art 

March 15-21 Book Fair

March 25-29 Spring Break

March Celebrations & Recognitions:

National Women's' History Month

Equity in Education Month

Disability Awareness Month

Celebrating Arts in our Schools Month

National Nutrition Month

TLES PTA Spring Auction Begins Tomorrow, March 9!

This year's spring auction will take place from March 9th through March 16th, and you can now preview the nearly 200 confirmed donations online by clicking here. Bidding begins on Saturday March 9th, so you have plenty of time to mark your favorites and share with family, friends, and your community. 

Remember, anyone can bid on items in the auction - whether they are part of the TLES community or not! The PTA would appreciate your support in sharing the auction online via NextDoor, Facebook, etc or posting printed flyers on community bulletin boards you may have access to. You can share this link, or print this flyer.

Ramadan

This year, the first full day of Ramadan is Monday, March 11. In Islam, Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year. During this month Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset each day while striving to increase their spirituality, through prayers, charity and good deeds. Read more about Ramadan in National Geographic Kids.

March 11 is an O day. The school calendar recognizes many religious and cultural observances (O days) during the school year. There is school on these days, however tests, quizzes, field trips, graduation, homecoming, or FCPS-scheduled athletic events will not be held on these observance days. See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact their student’s principal regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction.

🌎Support Earth Week at TLES! 🌍

Dear ​TLES Community Partners,  

Timber Lane Elementary School will be participating in Earth Day 2024 and needs your help! Earth Day is an opportunity to celebrate our planet by promoting awareness for environmental protection.   We have designed a schoolwide event to celebrate Earth Day while educating our students in learning activities involving renewable energy, environmental stewardship, and energy conservation.  In order to commemorate this important event, we would like to purchase TLES Earth Day T-shirts for all students and staff and are offering sponsorships where local and national companies can add their logo to the back of the T-shirts.  Available sponsorship levels include: 

Platinum Sponsors: $2,000

Gold Sponsors: $1,000

Silver Sponsors: $500

Bronze Sponsors: $250

Supporting Sponsors: In-kind donation (no logo)

Please help if you can. Our planet depends on it! The deadline for monetary sponsorships is March 8, 2024. Checks should be made payable to Timber Lane ES & can be left with Ms. Noland. 

Sincerely,

Louise Nelson

STEAM Coach

Timber Lane Elementary School

[email protected]

McLean Pyramid Youth Art Month Show

Show Opens – Wednesday, March 13th

Reception – Thursday, March 14, 4:30 to 6:00 pm

Show Closes – Saturday March 30th

Gallery Open Hours – McLean Project for the Arts (MPA) https://mpaart.org, 703-790-1953

Tuesdays through Fridays 1-4pm

Saturdays 10am-3pm

Address  – 1234 Ingleside Avenue, McLean, VA 22101

National Women’s History Month

Every year, March is designated Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation. The month is set aside to honor women’s contributions in American history.

Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Read more about Women’s History Month in National Geographic Kids.

✅ Take the Family Engagement Survey!

FCPS’ Family Engagement Survey is now open. Survey partner K12 Insight emailed a link to families on March 3 and again on March 6. Please participate! Your feedback is critical in helping to inform and improve FCPS practices to best support our students.

The survey is available in 10 languages. Parents/caregivers may stop by the front office to fill out a paper survey or complete the survey online. Please check your email for the survey invitation or use this survey link. Get more information on the Family Engagement Survey webpage.

Bipartisan Study Finds Virginia Public School Divisions Receive Less Funding per Student Than Other States

The School Board recently adopted FCPS’ FY 2025 Advertised Budget. Meeting budget needs becomes more of a challenge with underfunding by the state, using staffing formulas that continue to result in school districts not receiving the actual support needed for excellent public education. A staffing formula is the method for calculating the number of positions that need to be assigned to meet program needs. 

Did You Know?

In July 2023, the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) released a study of Virginia’s K-12 funding formulas. The report found that Virginia school divisions receive less funding per student than the 50-state average, the regional average, and many of Virginia’s neighboring states including West Virginia, Maryland, and Kentucky. Learn more about the JLARC study. View FCPS’ budget development timeline. 

Contact your state officials to provide feedback on funding for K-12 education.

Lightspeed Classroom Management

As part of our commitment to creating a safe and focused learning environment for our students, our school is using a classroom management tool that will help teachers better connect with student devices during classes. We are continuing to expand our use over the coming weeks. This tool will provide teachers with a number of helpful features:

• Easily view student screens in real time from the teacher console to see which students may need guidance or support.
• Focus student attention on a particular website on their device to minimize distractions.
• Pause student access to the internet to focus on other classroom tasks.

We believe this classroom management tool will allow us to maximize class time to support your student’s learning while at school. Please note that student devices will not be monitored outside of school hours. The regular filters remain in place on school devices, but once they are home, teachers cannot monitor students. As parents, we would like to encourage you to sign up for your own Lightspeed reports, which will allow you to see how your child is spending time on the computer during and after school hours.

Wednesday, April 17, Purple Up! Day

Join our community and turn FCPS purple on Purple Up! Day, Wednesday, April 17. Wear purple in recognition of FCPS’ 14,000 enrolled military-connected students. 

Purple Up! T-shirts are available for purchase through Friday, March 8.

Summer Programs

Registration is now open for several summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. 

Tech Adventure Camp is available for current grade K-5 students to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for elementary students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

Tutor.com Dashboard

Tutor.com Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Through Schoology®, all FCPS students have 24/7 access to no-cost, year-round, on-demand, 1-to-1 tutoring services through Tutor.com.

A new Teacher-Referred Tutoring program feature provides targeted support and extends student learning. Teachers can now refer students for tutoring, with their specific needs already identified. Students can get extra support — on their own schedule — and reinforce their in-class learning.

Caregivers can guide students to access expert tutoring, homework help, and writing support by clicking on the Tutor.com icon in their Schoology portal—anytime, anywhere.

Plus, look for teachers’ tutoring session referrals on the Tutor.com homepage.

Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup

Good evening TLES, for parents interested in supporting our weekend food pick up at Trader Joe's and distribution at TLES, please find this sign-up form:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E4AA9A628A1FE3-tles#/

These weekend events only take approximately 30 minutes of your time in between pick up and distribution at TLES.  Thank you for helping us help our community!

💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

1. Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
3. Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
1. Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
2. Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
3. Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
4. Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
5. The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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.

• SPRING AUCTION BIDDING OPENS MARCH 9TH
• SPRING ENRICHMENT REGISTRATION IS OPEN
• TREAT YOURSELF WITH LATHER MOSAIC on 3/9
• VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: TRADER JOE’S
• NOMINATE SOMEONE EXCEPTIONAL @ TLES
• RESTAURANT RECAP: SHAKE SHACK SUCCESS!
• MARCH FAMILY RESTAURANT FUNDRAISER @ WENDY’S
• WE'RE RECRUITING FOR 24-25 PTA BOARD POSITIONS
• HERE’S WHAT THE PTA HAS BEEN UP TO
• STAY CONNECTED WITH THE PTA

SPRING AUCTION BIDDING OPENS MARCH 9TH

This year's spring auction will take place from March 9th through March 16th, and you can now preview the nearly 200 confirmed donations online by clicking here. Bidding begins on Saturday March 9th, so you have plenty of time to mark your favorites and share with family, friends, and your community. 

Remember, anyone can bid on items in the auction - whether they are part of the TLES community or not! The PTA would appreciate your support in sharing the auction online via NextDoor, Facebook, etc or posting printed flyers on community bulletin boards you may have access to. You can share this link, or print this flyer.

SPRING ENRICHMENT REGISTRATION IS OPEN

The PTA is excited to bring enrichment back for the spring! Registration is open now through March 17th for fun and exciting classes like chess, guitar, coding, soccer and more! Click here to register today!

TREAT YOURSELF WITH LATHER MOSAIC on 3/9

Join the PTA at LATHER in Mosaic on Saturday March 9th, for a day of fun and pampering! Stop by anytime between 11am and 8pm and enjoy trying facial products via mini hand treatments while you learn more about the benefits of LATHER’s unique wellness-based skin care and wellness products. LATHER will donate 20% of any proceeds generated during the event back to the Timber Lane and guests will receive a gift with purchase. This is a perfect opportunity to snag a few Mother’s Day gifts in advance!

LATHER is located in the Mosaic Shopping District at 2910 District Ave #155, Fairfax, VA 22031. Please be sure to mention Timber Lane should you decide to purchase anything.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: TRADER JOE’S

As 2024 kicks off we are in need of volunteers to help pick up food from Trader Joe’s! The time commitment is minimal, but the impact is great. If you can volunteer your time, please consider signing up by clicking here.

NOMINATE SOMEONE EXCEPTIONAL @ TLES

Did you know? The Fairfax County Special Education PTA hosts an annual awards ceremony to recognize the outstanding FCPS teachers, administrators, paraprofessionals, and specialists that go above and beyond to support students with disabilities. We hope you’ll take the time to nominate an exceptional TLES staff member by clicking here.

Nominees should be an outstanding supporter of special education and a champion of inclusion! Anyone can submit a nomination. You do not need to be a SEPTA member to nominate someone or to be nominated.

RESTAURANT RECAP: SHAKE SHACK SUCCESS!

Join us for family bingo night in the TLES Cafeteria! There will be prizes and fun for the whole family. We’ll have $2 pizza slices and $5 meal deals for sale. We hope to see you there!

MARCH FAMILY RESTAURANT FUNDRAISER @ WENDY’S

Join the PTA on March 19th for our next Family Restaurant Day at Wendy’s! Place an order for dine in, carry out, or drive-thru anytime of day - mention Timber Lane - and 20% of proceeds will be donated back to the school! 

Wendy’s is located in the Safeway shopping Center across from the school at 7391 Lee Highway. We can’t wait to see you there!

WE'RE RECRUITING FOR 24-25 PTA BOARD POSITIONS

Want to get more involved in the PTA?  There are 3 vacant board positions and committee/program chairs. There are also opportunities to create new roles for you to leverage your strengths and support the Timber lane community!

Open Board Positions:President, Vice President, Treasurer

Open Committee/Program Chairs:Enrichment Co-chair/Support, Reflections (tied to National PTA), Community Events (Fall Movie Night & Spring Bingo)

Interested in learning more? Send us an email: [email protected]

HERE’S WHAT THE PTA HAS BEEN UP TO

This month we hosted a fun family restaurant night at Silver Diner! We loved seeing so many friends show up and dine out!

We also hosted a fun community yoga class in partnership with CorePower Yoga in Falls Church! With over 40 participants the class sold out and we raised $865! Thank you to our friends who spent a Sunday afternoon getting mindful on their mats. 

On March 1st, the PTA also recognized our souper teachers and staff with a potluck lunch thanks to the generous contributions of families!

STAY CONNECTED WITH THE PTA

As we enter spring we’re up to 129 PTA memberships! If you’ve yet to become a member, there’s still time! You can click here to learn more. 

Find out the latest updates from the Timber Lane PTA by following us on Facebook today. 

For more detailed information from the PTA, you can find us online at https://www.timberlanepta.com/home

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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.

• 🌎Support Earth Week at TLES! 🌍
• This Week at TLES
• Calendar Reminders
• Body Safety Program
• Do You Know Where FCPS Funding Comes From?
• ✅ Look for the FCPS Family Engagement Survey This Sunday
• Longfellow MS Jump Start for Rising 7th Graders
• Earth Week in Our Community 🌎
• 🎤 Join a Community Conversation on Fentanyl and Other Drugs March 3
• Ramadam
• FY 2025 Proposed Budget
• 🧸 Kindergarten Registration: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3…
• 🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Continue
• Fairfax County Science and Engineering Fair Open House
• Summer Programs
• Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge
• Tutor.com Dashboard
• Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools
• Family Resource Center
• Camp Discovery - Spring Break STEM Camp
• Stock the Closet: Clothing Drive
• Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup
• 💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

🌎Support Earth Week at TLES! 🌍

Dear ​TLES Community Partners,  

Timber Lane Elementary School will be participating in Earth Day 2024 and needs your help! Earth Day is an opportunity to celebrate our planet by promoting awareness for environmental protection.   We have designed a schoolwide event to celebrate Earth Day while educating our students in learning activities involving renewable energy, environmental stewardship, and energy conservation.  In order to commemorate this important event, we would like to purchase TLES Earth Day T-shirts for all students and staff and are offering sponsorships where local and national companies can add their logo to the back of the T-shirts.  Available sponsorship levels include: 

Platinum Sponsors: $2,000

Gold Sponsors: $1,000

Silver Sponsors: $500

Bronze Sponsors: $250

Supporting Sponsors: In-kind donation (no logo)

Please help if you can. Our planet depends on it! The deadline for monetary sponsorships is March 8, 2024. Checks should be made payable to Timber Lane ES & can be left with Ms. Noland. 

Sincerely,

Louise Nelson

STEAM Coach

Timber Lane Elementary School

[email protected]

This Week at TLES Calendar Reminders

March 2 Read Across America Day

March 5 - Student Holiday 

March 6 - Body Safety Program Virtual Information Session

March 7 - PTA Bingo Night

March 9-16 - PTA Auction 

March 14 McLean Pyramid Art 

March 15-21 Book Fair

March 25-29 Spring Break

March Celebrations & Recognitions:

National Women's' History Month

Equity in Education Month

Disability Awareness Month

Celebrating Arts in our Schools Month

National Nutrition Month

Body Safety Program

Attention Parents/Guardians - You are invited to join us for a virtual Information Session about the Body Safety Program on Wednesday, March 6th at 6:00pm!  The Body Safety Program uses a research-based curriculum to teach students five key safety rules they can follow to help adults keep them safe.  This program will be taught to students at Timber Lane in early April by facilitators from the Fairfax County Department of Family Services.  If you would like to learn more about the program or have questions, please join us on Zoom next Wednesday.  The information will be presented in both English and Spanish.

Zoom Link: https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/95034181832 

Meeting ID: 950 3418 1832

Do You Know Where FCPS Funding Comes From?

The majority of FCPS funding is requested from the Fairfax County government, which generates its revenue from real estate and personal property taxes. The Commonwealth of Virginia provides the next largest source of revenue to FCPS through state aid and sales tax. The rest of the funding comes from a variety of sources, including federal aid and tuition for non-county residents. (The numbers above represent the FY 2025 proposed school operating fund in millions.)

FCPS does not have the authority to impose taxes and may only charge fees where the Commonwealth of Virginia has granted specific authority. Learn more about FCPS’ FY 2025 Advertised Budget.

✅ Look for the FCPS Family Engagement Survey This Sunday

Parents/caregivers will receive the FCPS’ Family Engagement Survey Sunday, March 3, from independent research firm K12 Insight. Please participate — your feedback is critical in helping to inform and improve practices to best support our students. Taking this survey will also help strengthen the partnership between your family and our school. When that partnership is strong, students can experience a range of benefits including improved school readiness, higher student achievement, better social skills and behavior, and an increased likelihood of graduating high school. The survey will take about 10-15 minutes to complete and will be available in 10 languages. Please visit the Family Engagement Survey webpage for more information. Your voice matters!

Longfellow MS Jump Start for Rising 7th Graders

Jump Start is an opportunity for students to learn more about middle school and meet other students before the school year begins. Jump Start dates are August 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th. Students choose to attend during Session 1 (Monday & Tuesday) or Session 2 (Wednesday & Thursday) from 8:30 - 12:00 each day. Further details forthcoming regarding the registration process! If you have any questions feel free to contact our After-School Specialist, Lavina Gangwani-Colaco - [email protected].

SOL Testing- Save the Date

 

Grade

Reading

Math

Science

3

May 10

May 17

N/A

4

May 9

May 16

N/A

5

May 8

May 15

May 21

6

May 7

May 14

N/A

       

This spring, students in grades 3-8 in Fairfax County Public Schools will take the Standards of Learning (SOL) assessments.  The purpose of SOL assessments is to provide information about students’ achievement of the state SOL objectives in English reading, mathematics, and science. It is important that your child attend school on the dates designated for them to test.  The Virginia Department of Education requires participation in these tests as follows:

• Grade 3-Reading, Math
• Grade 4-Reading, Math
• Grade 5-Reading, Math, Science
• Grade 6-Reading, Math
• Grade 7-Reading, Math
• Grade 8-Reading, Math, Science

Earth Week in Our Community 🌎

Fairfax County Park Authority's Earth Day Festival will be held Saturday, April 20 from 10am-4pm at the Sully Historic Site. The festival will include earth and nature-focused programs, scavenger hunts, and more.

The 6th Annual Mount Vernon District Environment Expo: Get Outdoors! Learn and Do! will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at Fort Hunt Park, 8999 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria. The goal of this free, family-friendly event is to educate and inform attendees about the environmental challenges that we face on a daily basis and how we can all act to save our planet.

🎤 Join a Community Conversation on Fentanyl and Other Drugs March 3

A community conversation addressing the opioid crisis within Northern Virginia and Fairfax County Public Schools will be held Wednesday, March 18, 6:30-8 p.m., in the auditorium at Lake Braddock Secondary School. Please enter through Door #14. 

All attendees will receive a free REVIVE! Narcan training during the event and learn about support services currently available within FCPS and Fairfax County.   

This discussion will provide families, staff, and students with valuable knowledge about the dangers of drugs and deadly fentanyl. The material discussed is suitable for students in grades 6-12. Together as a community, we aim to explore collaborative strategies to minimize the impact of these harmful and too-often fatal substances.

Language interpretation services are available as well as American Sign Language accommodation. Childcare and transportation will also be provided, as needed. Learn more about the event and register online.

Ramadam

Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact TLES' Principal, Mr. Chiet, regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction.

FY 2025 Proposed Budget

Join our community and turn FCPS purple on Purple Up! Day, Wednesday, April 17. Wear purple in recognition of FCPS’ 14,000 enrolled military-connected students. 

Purple Up! T-shirts are available for purchase through Friday, March 8.

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

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

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

After the appointment at the school (the student and one caregiver must be present), the student will be ready for orientation, Bridge to Kindergarten, or any other introductory events each school may host. Read more about the registration process.

💻 Try Online Registration

Parents may register their children online for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process. 

When registering, parents will create (or log in to an existing) SIS ParentVUE account. Please note that passwords should be more than 12 characters long. If you have an existing account and your password is shorter, please update it when you log in.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Continue

Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for Our Schools, Our Future – A Community Conversation. Your voice matters! Share your thoughts about FCPS and bring your questions to a conversation on:

• Tuesday, April 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Graham Road Elementary School.
• Tuesday, April 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at South County Middle School.
• Thursday, May 2, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Terraset Elementary School.
• Wednesday, May 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Hybla Valley Elementary School.
• Thursday, May 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Poe Middle School.
• Tuesday, May 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Katherine Johnson Middle School.

Pre-registration for a Community Conversation is not required but will help FCPS plan. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided for all events based on staff availability. Events are open to all. Learn about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.

Fairfax County Science and Engineering Fair Open House

Members of the general public are invited to attend the science fair open house at Robinson Secondary School on Sunday, March 17, 1-3 p.m.

Summer Programs

Registration is now open for several summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. 

Tech Adventure Camp is available for current grade K-5 students to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for elementary students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge

The Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge will be held on Saturday, March 2, at 10:45 a.m., at Hayfield Secondary School. The event features a public tasting of student dishes and demonstrations from two local celebrated chefs. 

The student challenge at the heart of this event is to create healthy, delicious, and culturally diverse school menu items that meet USDA guidelines. Entries will be judged by a panel including celebrity chefs, school food professionals, and local food producers. The public is invited to vote for their favorite dish. 

Chefs Najmieh Batmanglij and Chris Morgan of Joon will offer a demonstration at 11:15 a.m. Public tasting of student dishes will get underway at noon. 

Student-created dishes from this annual event have been featured on school menus throughout the Greater Washington Region. It is free to attend, but registration is required.

Tutor.com Dashboard

Tutor.com Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Through Schoology®, all FCPS students have 24/7 access to no-cost, year-round, on-demand, 1-to-1 tutoring services through Tutor.com.

A new Teacher-Referred Tutoring program feature provides targeted support and extends student learning. Teachers can now refer students for tutoring, with their specific needs already identified. Students can get extra support — on their own schedule — and reinforce their in-class learning.

Caregivers can guide students to access expert tutoring, homework help, and writing support by clicking on the Tutor.com icon in their Schoology portal—anytime, anywhere.

Plus, look for teachers’ tutoring session referrals on the Tutor.com homepage.

Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools provide programs that enhance learning in science, technology, and performing arts. 

If you are interested in sending your student to an elementary magnet school program, consider attending a school-based information night at Hunters Woods Elementary School, Bailey’s Primary Elementary School, or Bailey’s Upper Elementary School. 

Information nights will provide an opportunity to learn about individual school programs, student eligibility, the lottery process, and transportation.

Registration for the 2024-25 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 5, through Friday, April 12. Get more information about the schools, their programs, and locations.

Family Resource Center

Free Resources for Families

Did you know that caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities? 

Learn more about FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC).

Be the first to learn about new workshops by signing up for the FRC newsletter.

Camp Discovery - Spring Break STEM Camp

Girl Scout Nation Capital organization is offering a STEAM spring break camp that includes bus transportation from Timber Lane ES. The camp is 4 full days for $50 with full financial aid available.  Space is limited—registration opens January 16!

Questions? Contact Jeanne McElhaney:
[email protected] or (202) 534-3791 Additional information can be found here.

Stock the Closet: Clothing Drive

Sometimes kids need a change of clothes at school. A quick change of clothes can get them back to class and help them not miss out on valuable instruction time by needing to go home to change. Thank you, to everyone who has already donated in support of this cause! We are in need of pants. Check out this link for ideas: 

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/OJBYKY1KUCWQ?ref_=wl_share

Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup

Good evening TLES, for parents interested in supporting our weekend food pick up at Trader Joe's and distribution at TLES, please find this sign-up form:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E4AA9A628A1FE3-tles#/

These weekend events only take approximately 30 minutes of your time in between pick up and distribution at TLES.  Thank you for helping us help our community!

💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

1. Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
3. Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
1. Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
2. Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
3. Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
4. Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
5. The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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.

• 🌎Support Earth Week at TLES! 🌍
• This Week at TLES
• Calendar Reminders
• Longfellow MS Jump Start for Rising 7th Graders
• Family Engagement Survey to Open March 3
• FY 2025 Proposed Budget
• 🧸 Kindergarten Registration: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3…
• 🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Continue
• Fairfax County Science and Engineering Fair Open House
• Summer Programs
• Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge
• Tutor.com Dashboard
• Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools
• Family Resource Center
• Camp Discovery - Spring Break STEM Camp
• Stock the Closet: Clothing Drive
• Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup
• 💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

🌎Support Earth Week at TLES! 🌍

Dear ​TLES Community Partners,  

Timber Lane Elementary School will be participating in Earth Day 2024 and needs your help! Earth Day is an opportunity to celebrate our planet by promoting awareness for environmental protection.   We have designed a schoolwide event to celebrate Earth Day while educating our students in learning activities involving renewable energy, environmental stewardship, and energy conservation.  In order to commemorate this important event, we would like to purchase TLES Earth Day T-shirts for all students and staff and are offering sponsorships where local and national companies can add their logo to the back of the T-shirts.  Available sponsorship levels include: 

Platinum Sponsors: $2,000

Gold Sponsors: $1,000

Silver Sponsors: $500

Bronze Sponsors: $250

Supporting Sponsors: In-kind donation (no logo)

Please help if you can. Our planet depends on it! The deadline for monetary sponsorships is March 8, 2024. Checks should be made payable to Timber Lane ES & can be left with Ms. Noland. 

Sincerely,

Louise Nelson

STEAM Coach

Timber Lane Elementary School

[email protected]

This Week at TLES Calendar Reminders

February 27 - Club Pictures & Candids

March 5 - Student Holiday (Virtual School Planning Day)

March 7 - PTA Bingo Night

March 9-16 - PTA Auction 

March 14 McLean Pyramid Art 

March 15-21 Book Fair

February Celebrations & Recognitions:

Black History Month

Career & Technical Education Month

Love the Bus Month

VSBA School Appreciation Month

Longfellow MS Jump Start for Rising 7th Graders

Jump Start is an opportunity for students to learn more about middle school and meet other students before the school year begins. Jump Start dates are August 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th. Students choose to attend during Session 1 (Monday & Tuesday) or Session 2 (Wednesday & Thursday) from 8:30 - 12:00 each day. Further details forthcoming regarding the registration process! If you have any questions feel free to contact our After-School Specialist, Lavina Gangwani-Colaco - [email protected].

SOL Testing- Save the Date

 

Grade

Reading

Math

Science

3

May 10

May 17

N/A

4

May 9

May 16

N/A

5

May 8

May 15

May 21

6

May 7

May 14

N/A

       

This spring, students in grades 3-8 in Fairfax County Public Schools will take the Standards of Learning (SOL) assessments.  The purpose of SOL assessments is to provide information about students’ achievement of the state SOL objectives in English reading, mathematics, and science. It is important that your child attend school on the dates designated for them to test.  The Virginia Department of Education requires participation in these tests as follows:

• Grade 3-Reading, Math
• Grade 4-Reading, Math
• Grade 5-Reading, Math, Science
• Grade 6-Reading, Math
• Grade 7-Reading, Math
• Grade 8-Reading, Math, Science

Family Engagement Survey to Open March 3

FCPS is partnering with independent research firm K12 Insight to administer a Family Engagement Survey, which will be open from Sunday, March 3, to Friday, March 22. Your feedback is critical in helping FCPS to better recognize, understand, respect, and address family strengths and needs throughout the district. Survey topics include:

• Welcoming environment
• Communication
• Student success
• Advocacy
• Family and school partnerships
• Community partnerships

The survey will be available in English, Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Pashto, Spanish, Urdu, and Vietnamese. 

Parents/caregivers will receive the survey link via email from K12 Insight. A public link will also be posted on FCPS’ website. Paper surveys will be available in our front office. Please stay tuned for more information.

FY 2025 Proposed Budget

• Fiscal Year 2025 Proposed Budget Focused on Educational Excellence and Competitive Compensation 

At the last School Board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid proposed a budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 that focuses on excellence and providing students an equitable education in an inclusive and respectful environment, where access, opportunity, and achievement are available to all. 

The budget also prioritizes competitive compensation to attract and retain a world-class workforce. 

The FY 2025 Proposed Budget totals $3.8 billion, an increase of $301.8 million, or 8.6%, over the FY 2024 Approved Budget. Nearly 86% of the budget is focused on instruction. Key highlights include:

• Supporting students academically by maintaining existing class size formulas and providing necessary support to all students. 
• Retaining and attracting world-class educators with a 6% market scale adjustment.
• Strengthening student well-being outside of the classroom with expanded athletics offerings, additional athletic trainers, and enhanced stipends for fine and performing arts.
• Continuing initiatives including expansion of inclusive preschool, adoption of green initiatives, and funding assistant director of student activities positions previously funded with ESSER III.

Special education daily contract extensions, funding for the safety and security screening program, and late buses to support academics and activities at middle schools are several of the priorities to be addressed at the end of FY 2024. 

The School Board is scheduled to adopt the Advertised Budget on Thursday, February 22. Read more about the proposed budget. Keep up with FCPS’ budget development process.

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

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

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

After the appointment at the school (the student and one caregiver must be present), the student will be ready for orientation, Bridge to Kindergarten, or any other introductory events each school may host. Read more about the registration process.

💻 Try Online Registration

Parents may register their children online for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process. 

When registering, parents will create (or log in to an existing) SIS ParentVUE account. Please note that passwords should be more than 12 characters long. If you have an existing account and your password is shorter, please update it when you log in.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Continue

Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for Our Schools, Our Future – A Community Conversation. Your voice matters! Share your thoughts about FCPS and bring your questions to a conversation on:

• Tuesday, April 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Graham Road Elementary School.
• Tuesday, April 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at South County Middle School.
• Thursday, May 2, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Terraset Elementary School.
• Wednesday, May 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Hybla Valley Elementary School.
• Thursday, May 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Poe Middle School.
• Tuesday, May 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Katherine Johnson Middle School.

Pre-registration for a Community Conversation is not required but will help FCPS plan. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided for all events based on staff availability. Events are open to all. Learn about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.

Fairfax County Science and Engineering Fair Open House

Members of the general public are invited to attend the science fair open house at Robinson Secondary School on Sunday, March 17, 1-3 p.m.

Summer Programs

Registration is now open for several summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. 

Tech Adventure Camp is available for current grade K-5 students to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for elementary students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge

The Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge will be held on Saturday, March 2, at 10:45 a.m., at Hayfield Secondary School. The event features a public tasting of student dishes and demonstrations from two local celebrated chefs. 

The student challenge at the heart of this event is to create healthy, delicious, and culturally diverse school menu items that meet USDA guidelines. Entries will be judged by a panel including celebrity chefs, school food professionals, and local food producers. The public is invited to vote for their favorite dish. 

Chefs Najmieh Batmanglij and Chris Morgan of Joon will offer a demonstration at 11:15 a.m. Public tasting of student dishes will get underway at noon. 

Student-created dishes from this annual event have been featured on school menus throughout the Greater Washington Region. It is free to attend, but registration is required.

Tutor.com Dashboard

Tutor.com Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Through Schoology®, all FCPS students have 24/7 access to no-cost, year-round, on-demand, 1-to-1 tutoring services through Tutor.com.

A new Teacher-Referred Tutoring program feature provides targeted support and extends student learning. Teachers can now refer students for tutoring, with their specific needs already identified. Students can get extra support — on their own schedule — and reinforce their in-class learning.

Caregivers can guide students to access expert tutoring, homework help, and writing support by clicking on the Tutor.com icon in their Schoology portal—anytime, anywhere.

Plus, look for teachers’ tutoring session referrals on the Tutor.com homepage.

Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools provide programs that enhance learning in science, technology, and performing arts. 

If you are interested in sending your student to an elementary magnet school program, consider attending a school-based information night at Hunters Woods Elementary School, Bailey’s Primary Elementary School, or Bailey’s Upper Elementary School. 

Information nights will provide an opportunity to learn about individual school programs, student eligibility, the lottery process, and transportation.

Registration for the 2024-25 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 5, through Friday, April 12. Get more information about the schools, their programs, and locations.

Family Resource Center

Free Resources for Families

Did you know that caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities? 

Learn more about FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC).

Be the first to learn about new workshops by signing up for the FRC newsletter.

Camp Discovery - Spring Break STEM Camp

Girl Scout Nation Capital organization is offering a STEAM spring break camp that includes bus transportation from Timber Lane ES. The camp is 4 full days for $50 with full financial aid available.  Space is limited—registration opens January 16!

Questions? Contact Jeanne McElhaney:
[email protected] or (202) 534-3791 Additional information can be found here.

Stock the Closet: Clothing Drive

Sometimes kids need a change of clothes at school. A quick change of clothes can get them back to class and help them not miss out on valuable instruction time by needing to go home to change. Thank you, to everyone who has already donated in support of this cause! We are in need of pants. Check out this link for ideas: 

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/OJBYKY1KUCWQ?ref_=wl_share

Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup

Good evening TLES, for parents interested in supporting our weekend food pick up at Trader Joe's and distribution at TLES, please find this sign-up form:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E4AA9A628A1FE3-tles#/

These weekend events only take approximately 30 minutes of your time in between pick up and distribution at TLES.  Thank you for helping us help our community!

💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

1. Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
3. Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
1. Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
2. Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
3. Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
4. Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
5. The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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.

• 🌎Support Earth Week at TLES! 🌍
• This Week at TLES
• Calendar Reminders
• FY 2025 Proposed Budget
• 🧸 Kindergarten Registration: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3…
• 🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Continue
• 👩‍🏫 Help Students Achieve Their Dreams. Teach for FCPS!
• Fairfax County Science and Engineering Fair Open House
• Eating Disorder Parent Information
• Summer Programs
• Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge
• Tutor.com Dashboard
• Child ID Event Hosted by Apple Federal Credit Union
• Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools
• STEM Opportunities
• Family Resource Center
• Camp Discovery - Spring Break STEM Camp
• Stock the Closet: Clothing Drive
• Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup
• 💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

🌎Support Earth Week at TLES! 🌍

Dear ​TLES Community Partners,  

Timber Lane Elementary School will be participating in Earth Day 2024 and needs your help! Earth Day is an opportunity to celebrate our planet by promoting awareness for environmental protection.   We have designed a schoolwide event to celebrate Earth Day while educating our students in learning activities involving renewable energy, environmental stewardship, and energy conservation.  In order to commemorate this important event, we would like to purchase TLES Earth Day T-shirts for all students and staff and are offering sponsorships where local and national companies can add their logo to the back of the T-shirts.  Available sponsorship levels include: 

Platinum Sponsors: $2,000

Gold Sponsors: $1,000

Silver Sponsors: $500

Bronze Sponsors: $250

Supporting Sponsors: In-kind donation (no logo)

Please help if you can. Our planet depends on it! The deadline for monetary sponsorships is March 8, 2024. Checks should be made payable to Timber Lane ES & can be left with Ms. Noland. 

Sincerely,

Louise Nelson

STEAM Coach

Timber Lane Elementary School

[email protected]

This Week at TLES Calendar Reminders

February 19 - Presidents' Day Student Holiday

February 20 - Student Assembly: Black History & Women in History

February 22 - School Bus Driver Appreciation Day

February 23 Spirit Day Students dress as Teachers, Teachers dress as Students

February 27 - Club Pictures & Candids

February Celebrations & Recognitions:

Black History Month

Career & Technical Education Month

Love the Bus Month

VSBA School Appreciation Month

SOL Testing- Save the Date

 

Grade

Reading

Math

Science

3

May 10

May 17

N/A

4

May 9

May 16

N/A

5

May 8

May 15

May 21

6

May 7

May 14

N/A

       

This spring, students in grades 3-8 in Fairfax County Public Schools will take the Standards of Learning (SOL) assessments.  The purpose of SOL assessments is to provide information about students’ achievement of the state SOL objectives in English reading, mathematics, and science. It is important that your child attend school on the dates designated for them to test.  The Virginia Department of Education requires participation in these tests as follows:

• Grade 3-Reading, Math
• Grade 4-Reading, Math
• Grade 5-Reading, Math, Science
• Grade 6-Reading, Math
• Grade 7-Reading, Math
• Grade 8-Reading, Math, Science

FY 2025 Proposed Budget

• Fiscal Year 2025 Proposed Budget Focused on Educational Excellence and Competitive Compensation 

At the last School Board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid proposed a budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 that focuses on excellence and providing students an equitable education in an inclusive and respectful environment, where access, opportunity, and achievement are available to all. 

The budget also prioritizes competitive compensation to attract and retain a world-class workforce. 

The FY 2025 Proposed Budget totals $3.8 billion, an increase of $301.8 million, or 8.6%, over the FY 2024 Approved Budget. Nearly 86% of the budget is focused on instruction. Key highlights include:

• Supporting students academically by maintaining existing class size formulas and providing necessary support to all students. 
• Retaining and attracting world-class educators with a 6% market scale adjustment.
• Strengthening student well-being outside of the classroom with expanded athletics offerings, additional athletic trainers, and enhanced stipends for fine and performing arts.
• Continuing initiatives including expansion of inclusive preschool, adoption of green initiatives, and funding assistant director of student activities positions previously funded with ESSER III.

Special education daily contract extensions, funding for the safety and security screening program, and late buses to support academics and activities at middle schools are several of the priorities to be addressed at the end of FY 2024. 

The School Board is scheduled to adopt the Advertised Budget on Thursday, February 22. Read more about the proposed budget. Keep up with FCPS’ budget development process.

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

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

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

After the appointment at the school (the student and one caregiver must be present), the student will be ready for orientation, Bridge to Kindergarten, or any other introductory events each school may host. Read more about the registration process.

💻 Try Online Registration

Parents may register their children online for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process. 

When registering, parents will create (or log in to an existing) SIS ParentVUE account. Please note that passwords should be more than 12 characters long. If you have an existing account and your password is shorter, please update it when you log in.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Continue

Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for Our Schools, Our Future – A Community Conversation. Your voice matters! Share your thoughts about FCPS and bring your questions to a conversation on:

• Tuesday, April 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Graham Road Elementary School.
• Tuesday, April 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at South County Middle School.
• Thursday, May 2, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Terraset Elementary School.
• Wednesday, May 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Hybla Valley Elementary School.
• Thursday, May 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Poe Middle School.
• Tuesday, May 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Katherine Johnson Middle School.

Pre-registration for a Community Conversation is not required but will help FCPS plan. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided for all events based on staff availability. Events are open to all. Learn about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.

👩‍🏫 Help Students Achieve Their Dreams. Teach for FCPS!

Save the date! Attend FCPS’ instructional job fair on Saturday, February 24, 9 a.m.-noon, at Lake Braddock Secondary School. Network and take advantage of interview opportunities with representatives from various FCPS schools. Employment offers may be extended during the fair. Register today.

Fairfax County Science and Engineering Fair Open House

Members of the general public are invited to attend the science fair open house at Robinson Secondary School on Sunday, March 17, 1-3 p.m.

Eating Disorder Parent Information

In 2013, Virginia passed a law requiring every school system to provide information to parents annually about eating disorders with parents/guardians of students in the fifth through twelfth grades. 

According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA 2023),

Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. In the United States, 28.8 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives.

There is no single cause of an eating disorder. Rather, it is a complex combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that converge and set off an individual’s predisposed genetic vulnerability.

In collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department, FCPS has developed a web page with detailed information and resources about eating disorders.  To find out more, please visit the FCPS Eating Disorders website.

In addition to the information on the FCPS website, the National Eating Disorders Association has a toll free, confidential Helpline, 1-800-931-2237.

Summer Programs

Registration is now open for several summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. 

Tech Adventure Camp is available for current grade K-5 students to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for elementary students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge

The Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge will be held on Saturday, March 2, at 10:45 a.m., at Hayfield Secondary School. The event features a public tasting of student dishes and demonstrations from two local celebrated chefs. 

The student challenge at the heart of this event is to create healthy, delicious, and culturally diverse school menu items that meet USDA guidelines. Entries will be judged by a panel including celebrity chefs, school food professionals, and local food producers. The public is invited to vote for their favorite dish. 

Chefs Najmieh Batmanglij and Chris Morgan of Joon will offer a demonstration at 11:15 a.m. Public tasting of student dishes will get underway at noon. 

Student-created dishes from this annual event have been featured on school menus throughout the Greater Washington Region. It is free to attend, but registration is required.

Tutor.com Dashboard

Tutor.com Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Through Schoology®, all FCPS students have 24/7 access to no-cost, year-round, on-demand, 1-to-1 tutoring services through Tutor.com.

A new Teacher-Referred Tutoring program feature provides targeted support and extends student learning. Teachers can now refer students for tutoring, with their specific needs already identified. Students can get extra support — on their own schedule — and reinforce their in-class learning.

Caregivers can guide students to access expert tutoring, homework help, and writing support by clicking on the Tutor.com icon in their Schoology portal—anytime, anywhere.

Plus, look for teachers’ tutoring session referrals on the Tutor.com homepage.

Child ID Event Hosted by Apple Federal Credit Union

Saturday February 24th 12:00 - 2:00PM Apple Federal Credit Union 1226 W. Broad St. Falls Church

At events all around the county, Sheriff’s deputies and civilian staff fingerprint, photograph and measure a child; add any demographic information a parent provides; and then produce a plastic ID card for the parent’s safekeeping. To protect the privacy of the family, none of the information is retained by the Sheriff’s Office. For families in our community, this card could be the key to assisting law enforcement agencies should their child ever become missing. For the children, the process of producing the card offers a fun and positive experience interacting with law enforcement officers.

Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools provide programs that enhance learning in science, technology, and performing arts. 

If you are interested in sending your student to an elementary magnet school program, consider attending a school-based information night at Hunters Woods Elementary School, Bailey’s Primary Elementary School, or Bailey’s Upper Elementary School. 

Information nights will provide an opportunity to learn about individual school programs, student eligibility, the lottery process, and transportation.

Registration for the 2024-25 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 5, through Friday, April 12. Get more information about the schools, their programs, and locations.

STEM Opportunities

Virtual STEM Competition for Grades 6 - 9

eCybermission challenges 6th to 9th grade students to form teams & select a community problem to investigate with science or solve with engineering. Click here to learn more 

S.H.E Can STEAM Camp

S.H.E. Can is a free camp from the National Air and Space Museum with two sessions at the Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va. S.H.E. Can explores aviation careers and topics with middle schoolers, targeting girls and other underrepresented identities in grades 6-8.

Registration Priority is given to students from Title 1 schools. Find more information here.

Family Resource Center

Free Resources for Families

Did you know that caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities? 

Learn more about FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC).

Be the first to learn about new workshops by signing up for the FRC newsletter.

Camp Discovery - Spring Break STEM Camp

Girl Scout Nation Capital organization is offering a STEAM spring break camp that includes bus transportation from Timber Lane ES. The camp is 4 full days for $50 with full financial aid available.  Space is limited—registration opens January 16!

Questions? Contact Jeanne McElhaney:
[email protected] or (202) 534-3791 Additional information can be found here.

Stock the Closet: Clothing Drive

Sometimes kids need a change of clothes at school. A quick change of clothes can get them back to class and help them not miss out on valuable instruction time by needing to go home to change. Thank you, to everyone who has already donated in support of this cause! We are in need of pants. Check out this link for ideas: 

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/OJBYKY1KUCWQ?ref_=wl_share

Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup

Good evening TLES, for parents interested in supporting our weekend food pick up at Trader Joe's and distribution at TLES, please find this sign-up form:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E4AA9A628A1FE3-tles#/

These weekend events only take approximately 30 minutes of your time in between pick up and distribution at TLES.  Thank you for helping us help our community!

💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

1. Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
3. Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
1. Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
2. Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
3. Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
4. Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
5. The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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.

• This Week at TLES
• Calendar Reminders
• Summer Programs
• National School Counseling Week
• 📚 Lexia Parent Night: How We Help Your Child Learn to Read
• Tutor.com Dashboard
• Child ID Event Hosted by Apple Federal Credit Union
• Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools
• STEM Opportunities
• Family Resource Center
• Camp Discovery - Spring Break STEM Camp
• Stock the Closet: Clothing Drive
• Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup
• 💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

This Week at TLES

5th graders explore electricity, 2nd graders explore engineering & robotics, preschoolers create a multicolored heart

Calendar Reminders

February 13 - Middle School Q & A Session

February 14 – Family Market

February 15 – PTA Virtual Paint Night

February 19 - Presidents' Day

February 20 - Student Assembly: Black History & Women in History

February 27 - Club Pictures & Candids

February Celebrations & Recognitions:

Black History Month

Career & Technical Education Month

Love the Bus Month

VSBA School Appreciation Month

Black History Month

Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about Black History month. 

Middle School Question & Answer Session

Tuesday February 13 

TLES Cafeteria 5:30 - 6:00 PM

Virtual on Zoom 6:15 - 6:45 PM

• Learn about 7th grade class choices
• Ask questions about classes and middle school life
• Log in to check your student’s course selections

Summer Programs

Registration is now open for several summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. 

Tech Adventure Camp is available for current grade K-5 students to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for elementary students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

National School Counseling Week

Jordan Albrite & Katie Gastaldo are our counselors at TLES. Their work with students has such a positive impact. Students & Staff sahred their appreciation with Ms. Albrite & Ms. Gastaldo by drawing pictures, writing notes, & creating art. Thank you for all you do!

February 5-9 is National School Counseling Week, and highlights the tremendous impact school counselors have in helping students achieve academic success and planning for a career. School counselors work with students in a variety of different capacities, whether it is through classroom lessons, group sessions, or individual counseling. Learn more about the role of school counselors in FCPS.

📚 Lexia Parent Night: How We Help Your Child Learn to Read

FCPS funds the use of Lexia for all elementary and middle schools to use as part of their literacy instruction. Lexia is a computer-based program that supplements classroom instruction to help students develop literacy skills. It also provides teachers with data to identify students who need additional support, and the ability to know which specific concepts and skills to prioritize.Attend an information night on Monday, February 12, at 6:30 p.m., at Thoreau Middle School. Parents/caregivers will learn more about Lexia, and how FCPS is integrating it into the classroom and supporting student growth in reading. Attendees will also get tips for supporting their students at home.

Register to attend or submit a question in advance. Unable to attend in person? Join on Zoom. 

Integrating Lexia into the literacy curriculum aligns with the Virginia Literacy Act, FCPS’ Equitable Access to Literacy, and FCPS Strategic Plan Goal 3, which aims to have all students reading on level by the end of third grade.

Tutor.com Dashboard

Tutor.com Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Through Schoology®, all FCPS students have 24/7 access to no-cost, year-round, on-demand, 1-to-1 tutoring services through Tutor.com.

A new Teacher-Referred Tutoring program feature provides targeted support and extends student learning. Teachers can now refer students for tutoring, with their specific needs already identified. Students can get extra support — on their own schedule — and reinforce their in-class learning.

Caregivers can guide students to access expert tutoring, homework help, and writing support by clicking on the Tutor.com icon in their Schoology portal—anytime, anywhere.

Plus, look for teachers’ tutoring session referrals on the Tutor.com homepage.

Child ID Event Hosted by Apple Federal Credit Union

Saturday February 24th 12:00 - 2:00PM Apple Federal Credit Union 1226 W. Broad St. Falls Church

At events all around the county, Sheriff’s deputies and civilian staff fingerprint, photograph and measure a child; add any demographic information a parent provides; and then produce a plastic ID card for the parent’s safekeeping. To protect the privacy of the family, none of the information is retained by the Sheriff’s Office. For families in our community, this card could be the key to assisting law enforcement agencies should their child ever become missing. For the children, the process of producing the card offers a fun and positive experience interacting with law enforcement officers.

Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools provide programs that enhance learning in science, technology, and performing arts. 

If you are interested in sending your student to an elementary magnet school program, consider attending a school-based information night at Hunters Woods Elementary School, Bailey’s Primary Elementary School, or Bailey’s Upper Elementary School. 

Information nights will provide an opportunity to learn about individual school programs, student eligibility, the lottery process, and transportation.

Registration for the 2024-25 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 5, through Friday, April 12. Get more information about the schools, their programs, and locations.

Post Lockdown Drill

February 9, 202                                                                                                                                                                                 

Dear Timber Lane Parents and Guardians,

Every school in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) has a crisis management and emergency preparedness plan in place. Keeping students and staff safe is a priority. We practice a number of safety drills throughout the school year, including lockdown drills which helps us know what to do if there is a potentially violent intruder inside the school or on school property.

Today, our school conducted a lockdown drill and teachers talked to students to prepare them for the drill. As a part of our safety training we also show students a video regarding lockdown drills so students would know what a lockdown looks like in the school.

I am very proud of our students today. They listened to directions and the drill was conducted in a calm and orderly fashion. Our students did a great job, and I encourage you to discuss the drill with them.  Additional guidance on discussions with your child about lockdown drills can be found in the Parent/Guardian tip letter, as well as on the frequently asked questions (FAQs) page.

Our emergency preparedness plans have been developed in coordination with the FCPS Office of Safety and Security, local law enforcement, emergency management officials, and FCPS mental health professionals. The plans are regularly reviewed and updated and include procedures on how to respond to critical incidents such as fires, tornadoes, and other events. Students and staff regularly practice safety drills.

I will continue to keep you informed of safety and security measures in place at our school. If you have questions, please call or contact the school office.  I appreciate your continued support in these matters.

Sincerely,

The Admin Team

STEM Opportunities

Virtual STEM Competition for Grades 6 - 9

eCybermission challenges 6th to 9th grade students to form teams & select a community problem to investigate with science or solve with engineering. Click here to learn more 

S.H.E Can STEAM Camp

S.H.E. Can is a free camp from the National Air and Space Museum with two sessions at the Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va. S.H.E. Can explores aviation careers and topics with middle schoolers, targeting girls and other underrepresented identities in grades 6-8.

Registration Priority is given to students from Title 1 schools. Find more information here.

Family Resource Center

Free Resources for Families

Did you know that caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities? 

Learn more about FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC).

Be the first to learn about new workshops by signing up for the FRC newsletter.

Camp Discovery - Spring Break STEM Camp

Girl Scout Nation Capital organization is offering a STEAM spring break camp that includes bus transportation from Timber Lane ES. The camp is 4 full days for $50 with full financial aid available.  Space is limited—registration opens January 16!

Questions? Contact Jeanne McElhaney:
[email protected] or (202) 534-3791 Additional information can be found here.

Stock the Closet: Clothing Drive

Sometimes kids need a change of clothes at school. A quick change of clothes can get them back to class and help them not miss out on valuable instruction time by needing to go home to change. Thank you, to everyone who has already donated in support of this cause! We are in need of pants. Check out this link for ideas: 

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/OJBYKY1KUCWQ?ref_=wl_share

Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup

Good evening TLES, for parents interested in supporting our weekend food pick up at Trader Joe's and distribution at TLES, please find this sign-up form:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E4AA9A628A1FE3-tles#/

These weekend events only take approximately 30 minutes of your time in between pick up and distribution at TLES.  Thank you for helping us help our community!

💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

1. Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
3. Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
1. Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
2. Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
3. Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
4. Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
5. The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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.

Pre-Lockdown Drill Notification

February 7, 2024     

Dear Timber Lane Parents and Guardians,

Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for all of us. We have a crisis management and emergency preparedness plan for our school that is reviewed and updated regularly. Our plan includes procedures on how to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Students and staff regularly practice these drills every school year. We also practice lockdown drills.

A new Virginia Law (22.1-137.2) requires schools to notify parents at least 24 hours before a school practices a lockdown drill. However, we are not required to share the exact date and time of the drill. We are required to practice lockdown drills two times a year. FCPS lockdown drills do not include any type of active shooter scenario training, they are instruction and classroom based.

We will conduct a lockdown drill at our school soon. Our pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students will participate in this drill.

Additional information on our lockdown drill program to include parent tips and FAQs can be found on the Emergency Planning and Crisis Response web page. After reviewing this content, you should discuss the value of these safety drills with your child.

Keeping our school safe and secure for all students and staff involves the participation of the entire school community, and we thank you for your help to keep our school safe. 

Sincerely, 

The TLES Admin Team

Come discover softball this spring and make a lot of new friends!  Our beautiful, privately-owned facility at 1836 Westmoreland Street is highly convenient to Falls Church and a social hub for families and buzzes with youth sports into the night all spring.  Roughly 300 girls of all ages and abilities grow with us every year, and our softball program is highly accomplished globally!  We also have adaptive programs for children with special needs.  Any girl enrolled at Timber Lane Elementary can play softball at McLean Little League regardless of residential address!

Please send questions to [email protected], and to register, visit us at mcleanll.com and press the REGISTER button!

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook

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.

• This Week at TLES
• Calendar Reminders
• FY 2025 Proposed Budget
• National School Counseling Week
• Child ID Event Hosted by Apple Federal Credit Union
• STEM Opportunities
• Family Resource Center
• 🥎Timber Lane Girls Can Play Softball at McLean Little League - Register by January 22!🥎
• Camp Discovery - Spring Break STEM Camp
• Stock the Closet: Clothing Drive
• Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup
• 💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

This Week at TLES

1st graders propagate plants, 6th grade coders, 3rd grade engineers

Calendar Reminders

February 8 – 100th Day of School

February 8 – Clubs & Candids Picture Day

February 13 - Middle School Q & A Session

February 14 – Family Market

February 15 – PTA Virtual Paint Night

February celebrates:

Black History Month

Career & Technical Education Month

Love the Bus Month

VSBA School Appreciation Month

Middle School Question & Answer Session

Tuesday February 13 

TLES Cafeteria 5:30 - 6:00 PM

Virtual on Zoom 6:15 - 6:45 PM

• Learn about 7th grade class choices
• Ask questions about classes and middle school life
• Log in to check your student’s course selections

FY 2025 Proposed Budget

Superintendent to Present FY 2025 Proposed Budget

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will present the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Proposed Budget at the School Board meeting on Thursday, February 8, at 7:30 p.m. Dr. Reid’s presentation, as well as other budget documents, will be available after she presents to the board. 

View the meeting on FCPS Cable TV Channel 99 (Verizon Channel 11), the FCPS YouTube Channel, or the FCPS website. To watch School Board meetings dubbed in Spanish, please visit the FCPS en Español YouTube channel.

If you would like language interpretation or American Sign Language support for any School Board meeting, please contact the board clerk. Find your School Board member and how to contact them on the School Board Members webpage.

National School Counseling Week

Jordan Albrite & Katie Gastaldo are our counselors at TLES. Their work with students has such a positive impact. Thank you for all you do!

February 5-9 is National School Counseling Week, and highlights the tremendous impact school counselors have in helping students achieve academic success and planning for a career. School counselors work with students in a variety of different capacities, whether it is through classroom lessons, group sessions, or individual counseling. Learn more about the role of school counselors in FCPS.

Child ID Event Hosted by Apple Federal Credit Union

Saturday February 24th 12:00 - 2:00PM Apple Federal Credit Union 1226 W. Broad St. Falls Church

At events all around the county, Sheriff’s deputies and civilian staff fingerprint, photograph and measure a child; add any demographic information a parent provides; and then produce a plastic ID card for the parent’s safekeeping. To protect the privacy of the family, none of the information is retained by the Sheriff’s Office. For families in our community, this card could be the key to assisting law enforcement agencies should their child ever become missing. For the children, the process of producing the card offers a fun and positive experience interacting with law enforcement officers.

STEM Opportunities

Virtual STEM Competition for Grades 6 - 9

eCybermission challenges 6th to 9th grade students to form teams & select a community problem to investigate with science or solve with engineering. Click here to learn more 

S.H.E Can STEAM Camp

S.H.E. Can is a free camp from the National Air and Space Museum with two sessions at the Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va. S.H.E. Can explores aviation careers and topics with middle schoolers, targeting girls and other underrepresented identities in grades 6-8.

Registration Priority is given to students from Title 1 schools. Find more information here.

Family Resource Center

Free Resources for Families

Did you know that caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities? 

Learn more about FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC).

Be the first to learn about new workshops by signing up for the FRC newsletter.

🥎Timber Lane Girls Can Play Softball at McLean Little League - Register by January 22!🥎

Come discover softball this spring and make a lot of new friends!  Our beautiful, privately-owned facility at 1836 Westmoreland Street is highly convenient to Falls Church and a social hub for families and buzzes with youth sports into the night all spring.  Roughly 300 girls of all ages and abilities grow with us every year, and our softball program is highly accomplished globally!  We also have adaptive programs for children with special needs.  Any girl enrolled at Timber Lane Elementary can play softball at McLean Little League regardless of residential address!

Please send questions to [email protected], and to register, visit us at mcleanll.com and press the REGISTER button!

Camp Discovery - Spring Break STEM Camp

Girl Scout Nation Capital organization is offering a STEAM spring break camp that includes bus transportation from Timber Lane ES. The camp is 4 full days for $50 with full financial aid available.  Space is limited—registration opens January 16!

Questions? Contact Jeanne McElhaney:
[email protected] or (202) 534-3791 Additional information can be found here.

Stock the Closet: Clothing Drive

Sometimes kids need a change of clothes at school. A quick change of clothes can get them back to class and help them not miss out on valuable instruction time by needing to go home to change. Thank you, to everyone who has already donated in support of this cause! We are in need of pants. Check out this link for ideas: 

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/OJBYKY1KUCWQ?ref_=wl_share

Trader Joes Weekend Food Pickup

Good evening TLES, for parents interested in supporting our weekend food pick up at Trader Joe's and distribution at TLES, please find this sign-up form:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080E4AA9A628A1FE3-tles#/

These weekend events only take approximately 30 minutes of your time in between pick up and distribution at TLES.  Thank you for helping us help our community!

💻Important Forms for Caregivers to Complete

During the first weeks of the year, caregivers receive many forms to complete. Several of the most important ones are below:

1. Digital Resources Consent: Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources which require consent on the Digital Resources - Parent Consent page. This page also includes directions on how to provide permission.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities: This document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when they log in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage.
3. Opt-Outs: The Opt-Out Booklet is online or available from your child’s school. It contains information on: 
1. Parents’ rights to inspect and consent or opt out before their child participates in certain surveys.
2. Parents’ rights to inspect instructional materials.
3. Rules regarding student records and disclosure of student information (including photo/video of students) and the right to opt out.
4. Parents’ rights to opt out of the Social Emotional Learning Screener, physical exams not required by state law, career or social emotional counseling, Library Equity Access Pass Project, and/or Tutor.com.
5. The process by which complaints may be filed if parents or students believe their rights have been violated.

Paper forms can be signed and returned to school.

2737 West Street Falls Church, VA 22046  | Main Office: 703-206-5300
Attendance: Report an Absence | Web | Instagram | Facebook