Franconia Elementary School is truly a special school community, filled with bright and curious learners from diverse backgrounds. We are deeply committed to fostering a culture of collaboration between our educators and students, ensuring that everyone benefits from the shared knowledge, creativity, and connections within our community.

Penguin Pride All Year Round

At Franconia Elementary School, school spirit is celebrated year-round! Students, staff, and families are encouraged to show their “Penguin Pride” through various activities and events that foster a sense of community and belonging. Spirit Week, which coincides with the annual Olympic Field Day, allows students to participate in themed dress-up days. We also host a “Brillamos Juntos” (Together We Shine Brighter) Day where students wear their spirit wear to show their Penguin Pride. Check out our school song, The Penguin Song!

Outstanding Teachers Who Care

Franconia Elementary School is lucky to have so many dedicated teachers who go the extra mile to care for our students! One shining example is Anna Yortzidis, a first grade teacher recognized as the FCPS Region 3 Best Elementary Teacher in 2024. Mrs. Yortzidis is committed to customizing lessons to meet individual student needs, fostering understanding, and nurturing the self-esteem of all her students. 

Hands-On Learning Makes Education Fun!

Franconia Elementary School believes in making learning interactive and engaging. Fifth grade students celebrated the completion of a unit focusing on corn with an "elote party," where they had the chance to prepare and customize their own elote. To reinforce science vocabulary related to force, motion, and energy, Mrs. Wise’s class participated in a scavenger hunt. The students connected kinetic energy to soccer, gravity to swings and slides, and net force on the monkey bars. Our creative teachers imagine interactive lessons and field trips that make learning fun for students at Franconia Elementary School!  

Where Culture Comes to Life

Franconia Elementary School fosters a welcoming environment for all students, staff, and families and celebrates its diverse community. We go beyond simply recognizing cultural holidays by providing opportunities for students and families to actively participate in sharing their heritage and traditions with others. The school recognizes cultural holidays and events such as National Hispanic Heritage Month, which is celebrated with a school spirit week. We also host a World Showcase Day, allowing students to learn about other cultures and share their own heritage with the school community. Students can walk the red carpet and model their culture-based outfits at the World Showcase Day Fashion Show.

Readers Who Soar

Reading is emphasized throughout the school year with a variety of programs and activities that encourage students to develop a lifelong love of reading. The school library organizes a year-round "Million Word Challenge" that encourages students to read 1 million words by the end of the year, and a monthly Book Bingo, where students complete reading tasks like "Read a book by a new author" to win prizes. During "Read Across America Week," teachers dress as their favorite book characters, and students enjoy guest readings from local authors. The PTA also hosts a Read-a-Thon to encourage reading and raise money to support school activities.

A Stage for Every Star

Franconia students have many opportunities to showcase their talents and express themselves through music and performance. Students can participate in the Penguin Performers, a school musical program that stages two musicals per year, allowing students to explore acting, singing, and dancing, creating confidence-building opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. Talented young musicians perform at events like the Edison Pyramid Strings Concert, where they collaborate with students from other schools, showcasing their hard work and dedication. Students can also participate in the Spring Music Concert, school talent shows, and the All-County Chorus. Students in grades K-1 also participate in a mini-musical.

A Community That Cares

Franconia’s strong partnerships between families, staff, and volunteers through our PTA ensure that every student thrives. Whether it’s organizing fun events like Fall Festivals, providing classroom support, or cheering on students at field day, the Franconia community works together to create a nurturing and dynamic environment where students can grow academically, socially, and emotionally. 

Purple Star School: Supporting Military Families

Franconia is designated as a Purple Star School for its dedication to helping and supporting military-connected students and their families. This designation recognizes the school's commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for military families by offering resources and programs that address their unique needs. The school recognizes the Month of the Military Child, celebrated in April, with events like "Donuts with Dandelions."

Career Day Inspiration

Franconia’s "Oh, the Places You’ll Go" Career Day is a favorite for students in grades 3-6. Professionals from a variety of fields, including STEM, arts, and public service, visit to share insights into their careers. Students engage in interactive activities, sparking their curiosity and helping them imagine exciting possibilities for their futures. 

Weekly Whole-School Morning Meeting

We believe in starting each day with a positive and inclusive experience, and our weekly Whole School Morning Meeting does just that! The entire school community comes together in the gym to build connections, celebrate achievements, share announcements, and learn from each other. These gatherings help foster a sense of belonging and unity among students and staff. They set a positive tone for the day and create a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels valued and connected.

Franconia is more than a school—it's a community where we learn, grow, and make an impact.