FCPS

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Panther Press for May 5, 2024

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.

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.

Message from the PTA

Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week is May 6 - 10! The Parklawn PTA will be providing treats to staff this week to thank them for their tireless efforts to teach, nurture, and support students and their families. Students can also show their appreciation:

Monday: Bring or draw a picture of a flower to give your teachers

Tuesday: Give a high-five to all the teachers and staff you see

Wednesday: Write adjectives describing your teacher to make a poem—use this worksheet from the National PTA to get started!

Thursday: Draw a picture of you and your teacher in class

Friday: Write a thank you note for a teacher or staff member who has helped you

Bingo Night is Friday, May 17! Mark your calendars and come for an evening of games and raffle prizes. We are looking for volunteers to help during the event—check out our sign-up sheet and let us know if you can help. All volunteers will receive five raffle tickets for each 30-minute slot they sign up for!

Our next PTA Meeting will be Thursday, May 16, at 4:30 in the library. We’ll be holding elections for three PTA officer positions: President, Treasurer, and Vice President. We provided information about the President and Treasurer roles over the last two weeks. The other officer position open is Vice President. The Vice President leads PTA meetings if the President is not available and has a flexible role in helping to plan different types of events. All PTA members are eligible to run for office and vote for officers. If you are interested in any officer positions, please email current PTA President Joselle Shea to be put on the ballot.

Monthly Family Market: May 9

Come visit Parklawn’s May Family Market  from 5-7 pm! We’re partnering with the @Capital Area Food Bank to offer fresh produce and dry goods to members of the Parklawn school community, free of charge. Groceries are available on a first‑come first‑serve basis. This is our last market of the school year! We'll see you there!

Spring Picture Update

School pictures are ready! If you have not ordered pictures yet and would like to do so, log in to your account on mylifetouch.com or create an account using your student's school ID number. All families can also log on and order a FREE Digital SmileSafe card. More about the Smilesafe program here. Thank you!

Attendance Matters!

Learning at school will continue up to the very end of the year on June 12th! It is important that your child continue to be at school and on time every day through the last day. Please plan trips after that date so that your child does not miss school. Absences for travel before school ends will be considered unexcused and may result your child in being listed as chronically absent as defined by the state of Virginia. Every day of school is an important opportunity for students to learn and connect to peers and their teachers!

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results

One of the ways FCPS supports the mental wellness of all students is the SEL Screener.

Students in grades 3-12 took the SEL Screener in March, providing information on their skills like 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. Screener data is used to create the learning, experiences, and environments students need to be successful.

Individual student SEL Screener results should now be available to 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.

For more information about the screener please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For support in understanding your individual student’s results or for ideas on how to support them at home, please review the Family Guide or contact your student’s school. 

Upcoming Dates

May 9: May Family Market – last of the year! 5-7 pm

May 16: PTA Meeting; 4:30 pm in the library

May 17: PTA Bingo Night

May 22: Artful Spring Sing; 6:30-8

May 27: Memorial Day Holiday

May 29: Field Day

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for April 28, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn.

May 3 Student Holiday

Friday, May 3, is Orthodox Good Friday, and a teacher work day. Millions of Orthodox Christians commemorate Good Friday, also known as “Great Friday” to remember the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion. There will be no school for students that day. See the complete school year calendar.

Family Field Trip is May 4!

We are so excited for our Parklawn Family Field Trip to Museum of American Indian on May 4! We had over 470 people send in their interest form last week coming from all of our classrooms! Since we are limited to 150 seats, we did a random selection from those families interested. We contacted families this week regarding if your family has a seat reserved for the trip. If your family was not selected, you are still welcome to meet us there. We love it when our families are able to join us!

Where:  National Museum of the American Indian:  4th St SW, Washington, DC 20560

Date:  Saturday, May 4, 2024; bus leaves Parklawn at 9:30 with approximate 10 am arrival

Monthly Family Market: May 9

Come visit Parklawn’s May Family Market  from 5-7 pm! We’re partnering with the @Capital Area Food Bank to offer fresh produce and dry goods to members of the Parklawn school community, free of charge. Groceries are available on a first‑come first‑serve basis. This is our last market of the school year! We'll see you there!

Message from the PTA

The Parklawn PTA is excited to support Family Night on May 2. There are a number of opportunities to help at various stations, such as the picnic, open mic stage, and photo booth. We are looking for volunteers particularly during the 6:45 - 7:30 p.m. time slot. This would give you an opportunity to enjoy the activities with your family, and then help out. Please review the sign-up sheet for options.

We are also organizing activities for National Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week from May 6 - 10, which will include a lunch and other treats for staff. If you are interested in helping with any of those activities, please email [email protected]. 

Mark your calendars for our Bingo Night on May 17! We are collecting many exciting items for our raffle, and all Bingo winners will be able to select a prize. This is a fun tradition at Parklawn that you won't want to miss!

Finally, we will be holding elections for the PTA offices of President, Vice President, and Treasurer later in May. Last week we shared about the role of President. Here are more details about the Treasurer position. The Treasurer maintains accurate financial records for the PTA. They deposit and withdraw funds (such as depositing membership dues, or withdrawing cash for an event). In the fall, they prepare a budget for the school year, and in June they ensure an annual financial review is completed. The Treasurer also files our tax and insurance forms so we can maintain our nonprofit status. If you are a member of the PTA and are interested in learning more about or running for any of the open positions, please email current president Joselle Shea at [email protected].

Upcoming Dates

April 24: Spring Picture Day

May 2: Family Celebration Night! 6-7:30

May 3: Teacher Workday: STUDENT HOLIDAY

May 4: Parklawn Family Field Trip

May 9: May Family Market – last of the year! 5-7 pm

May 17: PTA Bingo Night

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for April 21, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn.

Earth Day Spirit Week!

Where  clothing that matches these colors each day!

Spring Pictures are April 24!

Group class picture and individual pictures will be taken on Wednesday, April 24.  Payment envelopes are being sent home or parents can pre-order on mylifetouch.com with the student ID or Picture day ID: EVTMTGG6W. We can’t wait to see those wonderful Parklawn smiles!

Passover

Chag Sameach to all in our community celebrating Passover! 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.  Ella’s artwork was designed as part of the FCPS Observance Design Challenge for Students. Learn more about the challenge: https://bit.ly/47oHw2j

Family Field Trip Update!

We are so excited for our Parklawn Family Field Trip to Museum of American Indian on May 4! We had over 470 people send in their interest form last week coming from all of our classrooms! Since we are limited to 150 seats, we did a random selection from those families interested. We will contact families this week regarding if your family has a seat reserved for the trip. If your family was not selected, you are still welcome to meet us there. We love it when our families are able to join us!

Where:  National Museum of the American Indian:                                          4th St SW, Washington, DC 20560

Date:  Saturday, May 4, 2024; bus leaves Parklawn at 9:30 with approximate 10 am arrival

Spring SOL Schedule

Parklawn Elementary students in grades 3-5 will participate in the Virginia Standards of Learning tests (SOLs) this spring. Here is the testing schedule for our students. Please be mindful of these dates when scheduling appointments. More information is available on the SOL assessments webpage (https://www.fcps.edu/node/35021)

Tuesday, May 7 – 3rd Grade Reading

Thursday, May 9 – 5th Grade Science

Wednesday, May 15 – 4th and 5th Grade Reading

Thursday, May 16 – 3rd Grade Math

Tuesday, May 21 – 4th and 5th Grade Math

Message from the PTA

The Parklawn PTA is preparing for a number of activities through the rest of the school year, which include several volunteer opportunities. We will be helping with Parklawn's Family Night on May 2-- we'll share a volunteer sign-up sheet soon. We are also organizing activities for National Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week from May 6 - 10, which will include a lunch and other treats for staff. If you are interested in helping with any of those activities, please email [email protected]. We are excited for our upcoming Bingo Night on May 17. Our planning committee has been reaching out to local businesses and organizations and has already gotten many exciting items for the raffle. In the coming weeks, we'll send a volunteer sign-up sheet to help during the event. We are also working with Campus Survival to put together school supply kits for that will give students everything they need for next school year. We'll distribute order forms next month.

Finally, we will be holding elections for new PTA officers in May. The open positions are President, Vice President, and Treasurer. Here is more information about the President position (we'll share more about the Treasurer and Vice President roles in the coming weeks). The primary responsibilities of the President are to: manage the PTA according to our established policies; lead PTA meetings; represent the PTA with the school and the larger community; and work with officers and volunteers to set goals and implement activities. If you are a member of the PTA and are interested in learning more about or running for any of the open positions, please email current president, Joselle Shea, at [email protected].

Upcoming Dates

April 24: Spring Picture Day

May 2: Family Celebration Night! 6-7:30

May 3: Teacher Workday: STUDENT HOLIDAY

May 9: May Family Market – last of the year! 5-7 pm

May 17: PTA Bingo Night

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for April 14, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn.

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. To show our support for all our military-connected families, we are inviting all Fairfax County students, families, school employees, and community members to “Purple Up!” on April 17 for military children. Why purple? Purple symbolizes all branches of the military as a combination of Army green, Marine Corps red, and Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force and Space Force blue. Learn more about Month of the Military Child and FCPS’ resources for military families.

Spring Picture Day is April 24!

Group class picture and individual pictures will be taken on Wednesday, April 24.  Payment envelopes are being sent home or parents can pre-order on mylifetouch.com with the student ID or Picture day ID: EVTMTGG6W. We can’t wait to see those wonderful Parklawn smiles!

Parklawn's Spring Family Field Trip is May 4!

Be on the lookout in this week's Tuesday folder for the flyer!

Where:  National Museum of the American Indian                                       4th St SW, Washington, DC 20560

Date:  Saturday, May 4, 2024

Time:  Leave Parklawn at 9:30 A.M.

            Depart from Museum at 12:30 P.M.

**Transportation Provided by FCPS Bus

***Families are welcome to take their own transportation and meet us there!

A diverse and multifaceted cultural and educational enterprise, the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) is an active and visible component of the Smithsonian Institution, the world's largest museum complex. The NMAI cares for one of the world's most expansive collections of Native artifacts, including objects, photographs, archives, and media covering the entire Western Hemisphere, from the Arctic Circle to Tierra del Fuego.

Students MUST be accompanied by their parent or guardian at all times during the field trip*

*Space is limited for bus transportation! Return this form and  RSVP by Friday, April 19. A lottery process will be used to draw names for 150 participants.  A permission slip will be sent home for the 150 selected people on Tuesday, April 23 to complete and confirm attendance.  If you would rather meet us there, you do not need to sign up!

Our Parklawn family had so much fun enjoying the eclipse together this week!

Autism Acceptance Month

April is Autism Acceptance Month. One in 44 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in the United States, according to the CDC. Our schools and staff play a vital role in creating and ensuring inclusive environments that accommodate and affirm autistic students.

PTA Meeting this Thursday!

Please join us for our next general meeting on Thursday, April 18, at 4:30 p.m. in the library. We'll discuss Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week activities and hear updates from the Bingo Night planning committee. We'll also discuss officer elections, which will take place during our May meeting. Serving as a PTA officer (President, Vice President, or Secretary) is a great way to plan meaningful activities for the school community and work closely with school administrators. We hope you can join us!

Upcoming Dates

April 17: Purple Up! Wear Purple to honor the Month of the Military Child!

April 18: PTA meeting; 4:30 pm in the library

April 23: Volunteer Breakfast, 9:15-10:15

April 24: Spring Picture Day

May 2: Parklawn Family Celebration Night!

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for April 7, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn.

Solar Eclipse is April 8!

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 Parklawn, we have been able to collect approved eyewear so that students can safely view the eclipse ONLY while wearing the eyewear. We are providing a school-wide learning experience and viewing opportunity.

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 Parklawn), 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.

Calendar Reminder: No School on Wednesday, April 10

Eid Mubarak to those in our Muslim community celebrating! This year's Eid al-Fitr artwork was created by Mark Twain Middle School student Tazrian S. In Islam, Eid al-Fitr is a 3 day festival to mark the end of Ramadan. Muslims dress in new clothes, give charity, and pray in congregation. Eid is celebrated with the exchange of presents and delicious food with family and friends.

Monthly Market is Thursday!

Come visit Parklawn’s November Family Market this Thursday, April 11 at 5 pm! We’re partnering with the @Capital Area Food Bank to offer fresh produce and dry goods to members of the Parklawn school community, free of charge. Groceries are available on a first‑come first‑serve basis. We'll see you there!

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. To show our support for all our military-connected families, we are inviting all Fairfax County students, families, school employees, and community members to “Purple Up!” on April 17 for military children. Why purple? Purple symbolizes all branches of the military as a combination of Army green, Marine Corps red, and Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force and Space Force blue. Learn more about Month of the Military Child and FCPS’ resources for military families.

Happy Arab American Heritage Month! In April we recognize and celebrate the contributions of Arab Americans, whose ancestry from the world’s 22 Arab nations spans northern Africa through western Asia.

Muslim American Heritage Month is a time for celebrating the history, contributions, culture, and an enhanced understanding of the diverse population of Muslim Americans. View the Fairfax County School Board resolution honoring Muslim American Heritage Month.

Upcoming Dates

April 8: Solar Eclipse!

April 9: Progress Reports go home

April 10: Holiday; Eid al-Fitr

April 11: Monthly Market, 5-7

April 17: Purple Up! 

April 18: PTA meeting; 4:30

April 24: Spring Picture Day

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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

Panther Press for March 17, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn.

Spring Break is Almost Here!

🌷 March 25-29 is spring break. Schools and school offices will be closed. We wish our students and teachers a happy and restful Spring Break! See the complete school year calendar.

Calendar Reminders

Friday, March 22 is the end of the third marking period. Following spring break, Monday, April 1 is a teacher workday. Tuesday, April 2 is a staff development day. Students will return to school on Wednesday, April 4.

Kindergarten Orientation is April 2! Join us for our March 19 VIRTUAL Family Coffee!

Please join the wellness team for a “Staying Strong in Spring” presentation! The next few months are a fun and busy time at Parklawn! We want to review the ways that we will be supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. We will also discuss how you can help your child thrive and finish the school year positively. Some topics included in the presentation will be the importance of attendance, test taking preparation, conflict resolution and healthy coping strategies. This month, we are going to host this coffee as a virtual Zoom meeting. Be on the lookout for the link, which will be sent to day before. We hope to see you all there!

Message from the PTA

Our next PTA meeting will be Thursday, March 21, at 4:30 p.m. We'll be joined by Parklawn's wonderful STEAM team, Catrina Dusch and Chrissy Phalon, who will share about the science, technology, engineering, arts, and math curriculum that they provide to students. We'll also discuss PTA support for upcoming spring activities, such as Family Celebration Night, Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week, and Bingo Night. We'll meet in person in the library-- all are welcome!, 

We would also like to congratulate Ms. Thompson's class, winner of this year's Wild About Reading contest! Thank you to all 18 classes who participated, each of which received a prize based on the number of activities completed and the number of correct answers for puzzle activities. We hope everyone enjoyed this celebration of reading!

✅ Take the Family Engagement Survey Today!

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!

Your Views and Opinions Are Important to Us!

On Monday, March 18, Parklawn Elementary parents/guardians will be sent an email containing a link to complete the online FCPS Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the VDOE-mandated Performance Evaluation Program for principals and offers parents/guardians an opportunity to provide anonymous input about various topics related to our school. These topics include how the principal demonstrates/impacts instructional leadership, school climate, management, communication and community relations, culturally responsive and equitable leadership, and professionalism within the school.

The questionnaire will be administered between March 18 and April 5. When you receive an email from FCPS Surveys, please take a few minutes to complete the questionnaire. Your feedback matters!

🩹 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.

Upcoming Dates

Tuesday, March 19: VIRTUAL Family Coffee: Staying Strong in Spring; 9:15-10:15 am

Thursday, March 21: PTA Meeting, 4:30-5:30 pm

Friday, March 22: End of 3rd Marking Period

March 25-29: Spring Break

Monday, April 1: Teacher Workday; Student Holiday

Tuesday, April 2: Staff Development Day; Student Holiday

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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

Panther Press for March 10, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn.

Daylight Saving Begins (Spring Forward)

Did you remember to move your clocks ahead one hour? Sunday, March 10, at 2 a.m., daylight saving time begins.  As a result of the time change, many students will be walking to school or to bus stops in the dark. Help your child stay safe by having them wear reflective clothing and bright or light colors, or add reflective items to their backpacks or clothes. Also, encourage your child to be especially alert for cars that are turning or backing up and not to run into the street or cross between parked cars.

Ramadan

Ramadan Mubarak to those in our community who observe! This artwork was created by Westfield High School student Naba F. 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. Muslims believe it was during this month that God revealed the first verses of the Holy Quran to Prophet Muhammad

March Family Market is Thursday!

Come visit Parklawn’s November Family Market this Thursday, March 14 at 5 pm! We’re partnering with the @Capital Area Food Bank to offer fresh produce and dry goods to members of the Parklawn school community, free of charge. Groceries are available on a first‑come first‑serve basis. We'll see you there!

Join us for our March 19 VIRTUAL Family Coffee!

Please join the wellness team for a “Staying Strong in Spring” presentation! The next few months are a fun and busy time at Parklawn! We want to review the ways that we will be supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. We will also discuss how you can help your child thrive and finish the school year positively. Some topics included in the presentation will be the importance of attendance, test taking preparation, conflict resolution and healthy coping strategies. This month, we are going to host this coffee as a virtual Zoom meeting. Be on the lookout for the link, which will be sent the day before the meeting. We hope to see you all there!

Upcoming Dates

Thursday, March 14: March Family Market, 5-7 pm

Tuesday, March 19: VIRTUAL Family Coffee: Staying Strong in Spring; 9:15-10:15 am

Thursday, March 21: PTA Meeting, 4:30-5:30 pm

Friday, March 22: End of 3rd Marking Period

March 25-29: Spring Break

Monday, April 1: Teacher Workday; Student Holiday

Tuesday, April 2: Staff Development Day; Student Holiday

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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

Panther Update for March 3, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn.

March 5 Presidential Primary: No School

The Fairfax Board of Elections has requested that schools be closed on Tuesday, March 5, to accommodate the safe and efficient administration of the 2024 presidential primary election.

Therefore, March 5 will be a school holiday for students and a virtual School Planning Day Central offices and school offices will remain open. SACC will remain open, as on other professional workdays.

STEAM Night is Thursday, March 7! Join us from 6-7:30!

 

STEAM Night is an opportunity for families to engage in hands-on collaborative learning experiences! Come play games, watch robots on the move, and see STEAM in action at Parklawn. 

STEAM learning combines science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math. Through STEAM learning, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills, creativity, and problem solving.

Mark your calendar and join us for a fun-filled family evening!

Read Across America Week!

Parklawn will be celebrating Read Across America March 4-8.  Students will have the opportunity to read a book at school that goes along with a daily theme.  Feel free to participate with your child at home. On Friday, March 8th students will come home with a book to keep and receive a bookmark. 

National School Social Work Week

March 3-9 is National School Social Work Week. 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. We are so lucky to have the wonderful Catherine Lartey as our full-time social worker at Parklawn! She is a wonderful support to our students and families! Learn more about the role of social workers in FCPS.

Daylight Saving Begins March 10 (Spring Forward)

Sunday, March 10, at 2 a.m., daylight saving time begins. Don’t forget to move your clocks ahead one hour! As a result of the time change, many students will be walking to school or to bus stops in the dark. Help your child stay safe by having them wear reflective clothing and bright or light colors, or add reflective items to their backpacks or clothes. Also, encourage your child to be especially alert for cars that are turning or backing up and not to run into the street or cross between parked cars.

Ramadan Begins March 11

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. Half-O days are full school days, but important events will not be held after school on those 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 Mrs. Forgy regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction.

✅ 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!

Upcoming Dates

Tuesday, March 5: Primary Election Day; STUDENT HOLIDAY, School Planning Day

Thursday, March 7: STEAM Night, 6-7:30 pm

Thursday, March 14: March Family Market, 5-7 pm

Thursday, March 21: PTA Meeting, 4:30-5:30 pm

Friday, March 22: End of 3rd Marking Period

March 25-29: Spring Break

Monday, April 1: Teacher Workday; Student Holiday

Tuesday, April 2: Staff Development Day; Student Holiday

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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

Panther Press for February 25, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn.

Parklawn’s Book Fair is Here!

We’re so excited the book fair is coming to Parklawn Elementary THIS WEEK! The book fair will be held February 26 - March 1 in the library, with set-up taking place Friday, February 23. Each class will visit the book fair twice throughout the week. Once on Monday or Tuesday to preview the selection and a second time Wednesday through Friday to purchase items. See below for the hours each day:

Monday, February 26, 2024 and February, 27, 2024 – Preview Days

Tuesday, February 27 

Shopping - 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Wednesday, February 28     

Shopping - 8:40 am - 4:00 pm

Thursday, February 29     

Shopping - 8:40 am - 4:00 pm

4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Friday, March 1, 2024

Shopping - 8:40 am - 12:30 pm**

**only assigned classes will be able to shop after 12:30 pm. 

Clean up - 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm

The book fair will accept cash, check (payable to the school), credit cards and eWallet. eWallet is a cashless payment option where money can be added to a virtual account for students to use. Please note that tax WILL NOT be charged on items this year. More information about setting up an eWallet account and our fair is available at the book fair homepage: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/parklawnes This link can also be used to shop the fair online until 3/7.

The book is always in need of volunteers. There are a variety of positions available, including set up and clean up. Sign up for a slot at https://bit.ly/pesfair2024. Students in grade 5 or older are welcome during set up and clean up slots for assisting. Mrs. Zamudio can sign off on community service forms for middle or high schoolers as needed. New this year: ALL adult volunteers will get a free item of choice for their volunteering. Remember all proceeds from the book fair support our school’s classroom libraries and the school library. Any questions about the book can be directed to Rachel Zamudio at [email protected]. Thank you for your support of our book fair!

Parklawn Celebrates Read Across America Week March 4-8!

Parklawn will be celebrating Read Across America March 4-8.  Students will have the opportunity to read a book at school that goes along with a daily theme.  Feel free to participate with your child at home. On Friday, March 8th students will come home with a book to keep and receive a bookmark. 

March 5 Presidential Primary

The Fairfax Board of Elections has requested that schools be closed on Tuesday, March 5, to accommodate the safe and efficient administration of the 2024 presidential primary election.

Therefore, March 5 will be a school holiday for students and a virtual School Planning Day Central offices and school offices will remain open. SACC will remain open, as on other professional workdays.

Join us for Parklawn's STEAM Night March 7th from 6:00-7:30!

STEAM Night is an opportunity for families to engage in hands-on collaborative learning experiences! Come play games, watch robots on the move, and see STEAM in action at Parklawn. 

STEAM learning combines science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math. Through STEAM learning, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills, creativity, and problem solving.

Mark your calendar and join us for a fun-filled family evening!

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.

Upcoming Dates

February 26 -March 1: Scholastic Book Fair

Tuesday, March 5: Primary Election Day; STUDENT HOLIDAY, School Planning Day

Thursday, March 7: STEAM Night, 6-7:30 pm

Thursday, March 14: March Family Market, 5-7 pm

Thursday, March 21: PTA Meeting, 4:30-5:30 pm

Friday, March 22: End of 3rd Marking Period

March 25-29: Spring Break

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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

Panther Press for February 18, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn.

Presidents Day Holiday

All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 19, for the Presidents Day holiday. Learn more about Presidents Day in Britannica.com. Classes will resume on Tuesday, February 20. See the complete school year calendar.

Presidents Day, officially recognized in the United States, is celebrated on the third Monday in February each year. It is a time to honor and remember the birthdays and achievements of the country's most distinguished leaders, and to reflect on the president's role in shaping the nation's history and development. 

Kindergarten Registration

Is your child turning 5 on or before September 30th? If so, we are excited to welcome your child to Kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year! Registration is already open, and you are welcome to contact Parklawn to begin the registration process. This is an important year for you and your child, and we are excited to support you in this process. For more kindergarten registration information, you can check out the Parklawn website or contact the Parklawn registrar, Ms. Lanh Nguyen, [email protected] Also, Save the date! We invite you to attend Parklawn’s Kindergarten Orientation on Tuesday, May 7 from 4:30-5:30 IN PERSON!! You will have the opportunity to meet our Parklawn team,  see  “A Day in the Life of Kindergarten”, tour the school, and participate in a Q & A to learn more about our Parklawn Family! 

🧸 Kindergarten Registration: 

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.

Student Intention Form for 2024-25

We need your help in projecting our total enrollment for next school year. For families not returning to Parklawn Elementary School in the fall for school year 2024-25, please let the school  know your answers to the questions in the attached Student’s Intention for the Next School Year form by June 12, 2024. Please save the completed form, attach it to an email, and send it to Lanh Nguyen at [email protected] (you may omit the Student ID Number and Parent Signature). Hard copies of the form are also available in the main office. If you would like to give your answers via the phone, please call 703-914-6900.

Click here to access the form.

Parklawn’s Book Fair is Coming in February!

We’re so excited the book fair is coming soon to Parklawn Elementary! The book fair will be held February 26 - March 1 in the library, with set-up taking place Friday, February 23. Each class will visit the book fair twice throughout the week. Once on Monday or Tuesday to preview the selection and a second time Wednesday through Friday to purchase items. See below for the hours each day:

Monday, February 26, 2024 and February, 27, 2024 – Preview Days

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Shopping - 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Shopping – 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Shopping – 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Friday, March 1, 2024

Shopping – 9:00 am - 12:30 pm**

**only assigned classes will be able to shop after 12:30 pm. 

Clean up - 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm

 

The book is always in need of volunteers. There are a variety of positions available, including set up and clean up. Sign up for a slot at https://bit.ly/pesfair2024. Students in grade 5 or older are welcome during set up and clean up slots for assisting. Mrs. Zamudio can sign off on community service forms for middle or high schoolers as needed. New this year: ALL adult volunteers will get a free item of choice for their volunteering. Remember all proceeds from the book fair support our school’s classroom libraries and the school library. Any questions about the book can be directed to Rachel Zamudio at [email protected]. Thank you for your support of our book fair!

Upcoming Dates

Monday, February 19: Presidents Day: School Holiday

February 22: Wild About Reading Spirit Day! Students may be a word collector and wear clothing with words!

February 26 -March 1: Scholastic Book Fair

Tuesday, March 5: STUDENT HOLIDAY, School Planning Day

Thursday, March 7: STEAM Night, 6-7:30 pm

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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

Panther Press for February 11, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn.

Presidents Day (Holiday)

All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 19, for the Presidents Day holiday. Learn more about Presidents Day in Britannica.com. Classes will resume on Tuesday, February 20. See the complete school year calendar.

FCPS School Board Update

During the February 8, 2024 meeting, The School Board voted to approve the Proposed FCPS FY 2025-29 Capital Improvement Program, as amended. View all amendments on Boarddocs.

One of the amendments to the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)  was to add Parklawn Elementary School to the Priority Recommended Boundary Adjustments of the Proposed CIP with a Potential Scoping of Fall 2024/Spring 2025. This will allow FCPS staff to address our projected capacity and the number of outdoor buildings we have for learning. This is not an immediate process, with a possible study beginning in the next school year. No changes to our enrollment or building will be affected at this time. FCPS will share process information as they determine to move forward. Our focus at Parklawn remains on the education and care for each of our students every day.

Parklawn’s Book Fair is Coming!

We’re so excited the book fair is coming soon to Parklawn Elementary! The book fair will be held February 26 - March 1 in the library, with set-up taking place Friday, February 23. Each class will visit the book fair twice throughout the week. Once on Monday or Tuesday to preview the selection and a second time Wednesday through Friday to purchase items. See below for the hours each day:

Monday, February 26,  and February, 27 – Preview Days

Tuesday, February 27

Shopping - 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Wednesday, February 28         

Shopping – 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Thursday, February 29

Shopping – 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Friday, March 1

Shopping – 9:00 am - 12:30 pm**

**only assigned classes will be able to shop after 12:30 pm. 

Clean up - 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm

The book fair will accept cash, check (payable to the school), credit cards and eWallet. eWallet is a cashless payment option where money can be added to a virtual account for students to use. Please note that tax WILL NOT be charged on items this year. More information about setting up an eWallet account and our fair is available at the book fair homepage: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/parklawnes

This link can also be used to shop the fair online until 3/7.

The book is always in need of volunteers. There are a variety of positions available, including set up and clean up. Sign up for a slot at https://bit.ly/pesfair2024. Students in grade 5 or older are welcome during set up and clean up slots for assisting. Mrs. Zamudio can sign off on community service forms for middle or high schoolers as needed. New this year: ALL adult volunteers will get a free item of choice for their volunteering. Remember all proceeds from the book fair support our school’s classroom libraries and the school library. Any questions about the book can be directed to Rachel Zamudio at [email protected]. Thank you for your support of our book fair!

🥁 Sign Up for FCPS Summer Camps

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.

📚 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.

Parklawn PTA Update

Please join us for our next PTA meeting, Thursday, February 15, at 4:30 p.m. We'll meet in person in the school library. During the meeting, we'll discuss PTA activities for the spring, including Bingo Night, Teacher Appreciation Week, our school supply kit fundraiser, and plans to support Parklawn Elementary's STEAM Night and International Family Night. We'll also hear updates from Principal Forgy. All are welcome!

We are also excited that our Wild About Reading Contest will begin on Friday, February 16, to celebrate reading. The contest also builds excitement around the upcoming Book Fair, which needs volunteers to help set up and take down displays, assist students with their wish lists during preview days, and process in-person sales. If you would like to help, sign up here:  https://bit.ly/pesfair2024.

Upcoming Dates

Thursday, February 15: PTA Meeting 4:30 pm

Monday, February 19: Presidents Day: School Holiday

February 26 - March 1: Book Fair

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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

Panther Press for February 4, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn.

February is 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. 

Monthly Family Market is Thursday, February 8

Come visit Parklawn’s Family Market each month! We’re partnering with the Capital Area Food Bank to offer fresh produce and dry goods to members of the Parklawn community, free of charge. Doors open at 5 pm and groceries are available on a first-come first-serve basis. You are encouraged to bring bags/baskets to carry home groceries. We’ll see you there!

National School Counseling Week!

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.

We are so lucky to have Ms. Fobert, Ms. Sharpton, and Mr. Kim as our amazing counselors at Parklawn! They do so much to support students, staff, and families every day!

Upcoming Dates

Wednesday, February 7: Holmes Middle School Curriculum Night (in person), 5 pm (for rising 6th grade Holmes Students)

Thursday, February 8: Monthly Market, 5-7 pm

Thursday, February 15: PTA Meeting 4:30 pm

Monday, February 19: Presidents Day: School Holiday

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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

Panther Press for January 28, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn.

Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

This is the time of year when winter weather and children’s illnesses can take a toll on school attendance. But it’s important to get your children to school every day possible. Do what you can to keep your children healthy. Dress them warmly for the cold weather. Encourage them to wash their hands regularly and send them to school with hand sanitizer.

Visit our website for more attendance resources. 

Monthly Family Market is Thursday, February 8

Come visit Parklawn’s Family Market each month! We’re partnering with the @Capital Area Food Bank to offer fresh produce and dry goods to members of the Parklawn community, free of charge. Doors open at 5 pm and groceries are available on a first-come first-serve basis. You are encouraged to bring bags/baskets to carry home groceries. We’ll see you there!

Upcoming Dates

Wednesday, February 7: Holmes Middle School Curriculum Night (in person), 5 pm (for rising 6th grade Holmes Students)

Thursday, February 8: Monthly Market, 5-7 pm

Thursday, February 15: PTA Meeting 4:30 pm

Monday, February 19: Presidents Day: School Holiday

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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

Panther Press for January 21, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn.

Quarter End, Early Release, and Student Holiday

Thursday, January 25, is the last day of the quarter and a two-hour early release for students. Also, schools are closed for students on Friday, January 26, for a teacher work day. See the complete school year calendar.

January Family Coffee is Tuesday!

Join Mrs. Forgy, our math team, and members of our community for the next Parklawn Family Coffee on January 23rd from 9:15-10:15 a.m. in the library. The Parklawn Math Team will present ideas on how to promote a love of mathematics. Come join the fun as we engage in math games together and learn games that you can play with your student.

Outstanding Employee Awards

Congratulations to the Parklawn Family Members who were nominated and  chosen to represent Parklawn for the FCPS Outstanding Employee Awards! All of our Parklawn family staff members are amazing!

Outstanding New Teacher: 

Kate Gibson (music teacher)

Nominees: Ly Dow (3rd grade) and Janine Lorenzo (2nd grade)

Outstanding Teacher

Emma Whitaker (2nd grade)

Nominees: Tahmena Rauf (kindergarten) Angela Schroeder (1st grade), Lysa Hughes (3rd grade), Fatima McFarland-Pittman (ESOL teacher)

Outstanding Professional Employee:

Kelsey Weingarten (Reading Resource Teacher)

Nominee: Afifa Bolte (Family Liaison)

Region 2 Outstanding Principal:

Rebecca Forgy

 

Upcoming Dates

Tuesday, January 23: Family Coffee: 9:15-10:15

Tuesday, January 23:Winter Chorus Concert: 6:30 pm

Wednesday, January 24: Glasgow Rising 6th Grade Middle School Transition Night; 6-8:30

Thursday, January 25: End of 2nd Marking Period; 2-hour early release (1:25 dismissal)

Friday, January 26: Teacher Work Day; Student Holiday

Wednesday, February 7: Holmes MS Curriculum Night

Thursday, February 8: Monthly Market, 5-7pm

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter