Wednesday Word - 6/7/23

GovDelivery1 day 10 hours ago
  UPCOMING EVENTS

 

  • Monday, 6/5-Friday, 6/9 -  Remainder of Book Fair Week
  • Thursday, 6/8 - Second Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Friday, 6/9 - Kindergarten Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Friday, 6/9 - FES PTA Luau, 5:30 pm-8:30pm
  • Monday, 6/12 -  Third Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Tuesday, 6/13 - Fourth Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Wednesday, 6/14 - Fifth Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Thursday, 6/15 - Sixth Grade EOY Ceremony, 10:00 AM in the Gym
  • Friday, 6/16 - Talent Show  9:00 AM -11:00 AM
  • Friday, 6/16 - Last Day of School, 2 Hour Early Release

 

 

End of Year Recognition Ceremonies Schedule and Procedures

 

Below are the guidelines for this year’s end-of-year ceremonies:

  • Parking will be available in the parking lot behind the building off Kathmoor Dr.
  • Visitors will enter and exit through the rear gym doors, located off the blacktop.
  • Ceremonies will last approximately 30-40 minutes.
  • Please do not bring food, drink, or gifts (no balloons, etc.) to the ceremony.
  • If you have other children at Franconia who you wish to attend their sibling’s EOY ceremony, please coordinate that with their teacher (you can find all staff email links in our online staff directory).
  • If you wish to take your child/children home with you at the conclusion of the ceremony, you will sign them out with a Franconia employee stationed at the exterior gym doors.

 

Please direct any questions to your child’s teacher.

 

Thursday, 6/8 (second grade)

  • 12:00 - Yortzidis
  • 12:45 - Octaviano
  • 1:30 -  Dennison
  • 2:15 - Webbs

Friday, 6/9 (kindergarten)

  • 9:15 - Allen
  • 10:15 - Channon
  • 11:15 - Tran

Monday, 6/12 (third grade)

  • 12:00 - Pina
  • 1:00 - Stump
  • 2:00 - Haffner/ Ms. Jo

Tuesday, 6/13 (fourth grade)

  • 12:30 - Blum
  • 1:30 - Yezefski
  • 2:30 - Rim

Wednesday, 6/14 (fifth grade)

  • 12:00 - Hodge
  • 12:45 - Pater
  • 1:30 - Dickerson   

Thursday, 6/15 (sixth grade)                                                    .

  • 10:00 - All sixth grade classes

 

  The Book Fair is Here! Sign up to Volunteer

 

There is still time to enjoy the Book Fair! Students can visit during the school day, now through June 9th.  Families may shop after school on Friday, June 9 during the Luau!

 

Volunteers sign up here:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040E4CAEAD2FAAF49-book4

 

 

FES PTA Summer Luau Friday, June 9th 5:30-8:30pm Volunteers needed!

 

Are you ready for the BIGGEST end-of-year celebration Franconia Elementary has ever seen?!? Join us on Friday, June 9 from 5:30-8:30 in the back lot for FES Summer Luau! 

 

* FREE Baby Shark appearance by The Fantastical Character Company!

* FREE Capitol Snow snow cones to the first 300 Franconia Elementary students (adult/additional $3 each)

* FREE popcorn until supplies run out

* FREE leis to all kids

* FREE Train Rides, Games, Face Paint, Airbrush Tattoos, Spin Art & More!

* DUNK TANK holding your favorite FES teachers

* Unforgettable performance by Meki's Tamure Polynesian Arts Group (bring a blanket to sit on to watch comfortably)

* Concessions sold by Franconia PTA (cash and credit cards accepted)

 

CLICK HERE to sign up to volunteer!

Volunteers will be entered into a raffle for one of 10 "Skip The Line" passes!

One raffle entry for each hour you volunteer, as indicated in the Sign Up Genius or approved by organizer Jaime Frittman. Each Skip the Line pass is good for ONE event or station only. Skip the Line raffle drawing will take place prior to event start and distributed at volunteer check-in. Winner does not need to be present at the time of drawing to win, but must claim their pass from volunteer check-in by 7:00pm.

 

  Franconia ES PTA After School Survey

 

The PTA is collecting anonymous feedback on your experience this year, and on the kinds of after school activities you would like to see at Franconia next year. This is an anonymous survey, so your name will not be requested and will not appear in the results. Please consider completing a survey to help make after school programming as strong as possible.  The link to the survey is: 

https://forms.gle/KMP6phLFYm9RbMxG9

Please reach out to Matt at [email protected] with any questions.  

 

  Defining "The Penguin Way" We Need Your Help!

 

When Franconia’s mascot was the mustang, student behaviors were guided by the Mustang TROTS (truthful, respectful, own their choices, try their best, and stay safe). Now that we are the Franconia Penguins, we have a unique opportunity to restructure behavior expectations and refocus our students, staff, and community on what it means to be a Franconia Penguin. The Penguin Way will reflect our core values as a school and community.

Why do we need your help? Well, we want input from not only our staff, but our students and community as well! We want this new Penguin Way to be a collaboration between all stake holders in Franconia Elementary School. If you would like to be involved, please answer this survey which will ask you your opinion on our new collaborative effort. Your answers will be anonymous and will be taken into consideration while completing this task over the summer months. Thank you for your constant support! If you have further questions, please email Jillian Borsos (Committee Lead) at [email protected]. 

 

Counselor's Corner Mindfulness at Franconia Update

 

At Franconia, we have the unique opportunity of creating a mindfulness lab using our  wellness ESSER funds. Mindfulness is all about being in the present moment. In the lab, we have created opportunities for students to be in the present moment by creating mindfulness centers. Students can explore different mindfulness centers such as reading, breathing, art, affirmations, games and mindful movement. This space has provided an opportunity for student wellness by causing students to relax mentally, emotionally and physically. Also in the lab, as special treat to our students, we have a comfort dog named Charlie who visits with classes in the lab!

Take a look at one of our spotlighted classes in the mindfulness lab:

 Students had fun participating in mindfulness centers in Mrs. Blum's Class! https://flip.com/s/8HnfrBicjXn1

 

~    ~    ~    ~    ~    ~    ~    ~    ~

  Character Trait for the Month

May's character trait was Resilience-When things are hard, you don't give up, but bounce back.  Enjoy this video of our Resilience award winners: https://flip.com/s/dct5Kw2XKrAc

 

  Lost and Found

Our lost and found is overflowing with jackets, water bottles and other items that need to find their way home!  Lost and found is currently located in the back of the gym - take a moment to check the lost and found after attending your student's end of year ceremony.  All unclaimed items will be donated on the last day of school.

 

  ST Math Summer Learning

 

In collaboration with the FCPS Family Resource Center, the Math Office is offering a free webinar on Thursday, June 8, 2023, from 7-8 p.m. This webinar is designed to provide families of students currently in grades K-6 with resources to continue their math learning over the summer utilizing ST Math. During this session participants will learn how to log on and navigate the tool, discuss how students can work more independently, and how families can support their students.

 

 

 Edison Tennis Camp  Learn How to Play Tennis!

 

Lessons are open to students in Grades 3 - 12

June 20th - 24th

9am- Noon

at the Edison HS tennis courts, 5801 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310

 

**Beginner Friendly**

Rates
Weekly Rate: $150 for beginners | $200 for advanced
Daily Rate: $40/day for beginners | $50/day for advanced

 

Hurry Space is Limited!


Contact Coach W at [email protected] 

or use the QR code below to sign up!

 

Sponsored by the Edison Booster Club

 

  LMVSC Registration Now Open SUMMER Soccer Camp Basketball

 

FALL Flag Football Rec Soccer

(Registration for fall sports opens June 10th)

 

SIGN UP TODAY

 

Play with Friends

Scholarships Available

2 Year Old - High School Programs

Uniforms Provided

 

Additional information available at  WWW.LMVSC.ORG

 

  Calling All New Kindergarteners!


Any families who have an incoming kindergartener for the 2023-24 school year are invited to sign up for an optional kindergarten summer assessment time in August. This will be a brief 20 minute visit with a kindergarten teacher to let us get to know their strengths before starting school. Families can sign up here- Kindergarten Summer Assessment Sign Up

 

  June Calendar Reminders

 

June 16 - Last Day of School (early dismissal)

The last day of the 2022-23 school year is Friday, June 16, and students will be dismissed 2 hours early. Dismissal at Franconia will be at 1:30 pm on the 16th.

 

Tutoring Grants Available 

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) is now accepting applications from parents for tutoring microgrants for their children through the K-12 Learning Acceleration Grants program. 

The program was created to help Virginia families address the impact of the pandemic on student learning. It provides $1,500 grants to parents of school-age children for tutoring in specific subjects. Children from homes with family incomes at 300% or less of the federal poverty level may qualify for $3,000 grants. 

Available services include in-person, online, and hybrid tutoring provided one-on-one or in small group or large group settings. The first step in the process is to visit VDOE’s K-12 Learning Acceleration Grants page and create an application account.

 

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

  FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

  Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

.

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 5/31/23

GovDelivery1 week 1 day ago
  UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Friday, 6/2 - ALL Library Books Due
  • Monday, 6/5 - Field Day
  • Monday, 6/5-Friday, 6/9 -  Book Fair Week
  • Tuesday, 6/6 - RAIN DATE Field Day
  • Wednesday, 6/7 - First Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Thursday, 6/8 - Second Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Friday, 6/9 - Kindergarten Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Friday, 6/9 - FES PTA Luau, 5:30 pm-8:30pm
  • Monday, 6/12 -  Third Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Tuesday, 6/13 - Fourth Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Wednesday, 6/14 - Fifth Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Thursday, 6/15 - Sixth Grade EOY Ceremony, 10:00 AM in the Gym
  • Friday, 6/16 - Talent Show  9:00 AM -11:00 AM
  • Friday, 6/16 - Last Day of School, 2 Hour Early Release

 

P.E. News

 

  Super Franconia World Spirit Week

There is still time to participate in Super Franconia World Spirit Week and celebrate our upcoming Field Day

 

Thursday 6/1 - Dress like your favorite video game character

 Friday 6/2 - What Team Are You?

  •  Wear RED for team Mario  
  • Wear GREEN for team Luigi
  • Wear PINK for team Peach  
  • Wear BLACK for team Bowser

 Monday 6/5 - FIELD DAY! Wear your field day shirt or Franconia Gear!  

 

~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~

 

  Field Day is Monday!   Super Franconia World Gr K-2: Monday, June 5th, 2023 8:30 AM-Noon Gr 3-6 Monday, June 5th, 2023 12:00-3:00PM Rain Date (Same Times) June 6th

 

For Super Franconia Field Day on Monday, please make sure you wear light breathable athletic clothing, comfortable tennis shoes, and bring plenty of water.

If you are a parent volunteer who is bringing in popsicles or props could you please bring them in asap (this week) so we can get them ready for Monday. Thank you!

Looking forward to seeing you all next week at field day!!!

 

Here is our Super Franconia Field Day Signup form.  Please sign up for volunteer days for either one or both sessions and if you’d like to donate any materials or props for field day

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4EABAC2EAAFDC52-super

 

 

Interested in being a Safety Patrol?

Safety Patrol Applications will be going home with the rising 4th, 5th and 6th graders today. Please make sure your student fills out their application with their first name, last name, and current homeroom teacher. Please ensure that the your child marks down their primary form of transportation home, what patrol spot they are applying for, and if they will be moving this summer. Next please have them attach a 1-2 page essay as to why they want to be a patrol and what they can bring to the Franconia Penguin Patrol family. Finally they need to sign their name, have a parent or guardian sign, their classroom teacher as well as a second staff member to be eligible for application. Thank you and looking forward to all the wonderful applications.

 

 

Summer Learning Update

 

 Summer Learning Program confirmation emails were sent out this morning. If you have registered your student and have not received confirmation please contact Mrs. Wright Hudgens-[email protected]. Space is still available, register today!

 

  Franconia ES PTA After School Survey

 

The PTA is collecting anonymous feedback on your experience this year, and on the kinds of after school activities you would like to see at Franconia next year. This is an anonymous survey, so your name will not be requested and will not appear in the results. Please consider completing a survey to help make after school programming as strong as possible.  The link to the survey is: 

https://forms.gle/KMP6phLFYm9RbMxG9

Please reach out to Matt at [email protected] with any questions.  

 

  Defining "The Penguin Way" We Need Your Help!

 

When Franconia’s mascot was the mustang, student behaviors were guided by the Mustang TROTS (truthful, respectful, own their choices, try their best, and stay safe). Now that we are the Franconia Penguins, we have a unique opportunity to restructure behavior expectations and refocus our students, staff, and community on what it means to be a Franconia Penguin. The Penguin Way will reflect our core values as a school and community.

Why do we need your help? Well, we want input from not only our staff, but our students and community as well! We want this new Penguin Way to be a collaboration between all stake holders in Franconia Elementary School. If you would like to be involved, please answer this survey which will ask you your opinion on our new collaborative effort. Your answers will be anonymous and will be taken into consideration while completing this task over the summer months. Thank you for your constant support! If you have further questions, please email Jillian Borsos (Committee Lead) at [email protected]. 

 

  Library News Last Call for Library Books! All Books Due 6/2

 

Due date for all library books is Friday, June 2nd.  Please take a moment to gather any books you may have forgotten and return them to the library.

 

~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~  ~

 

  The Book Fair is Coming! Sign up to Volunteer

 

The Book Fair is coming June 5th to June 9th!

It will be open to students during the school day.

Families may shop after school on Tuesday, June 6 until 6:15 and on Friday, June 9 during the Luau!

 

Volunteers sign up here:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040E4CAEAD2FAAF49-book4

 

 

End of Year Recognition Ceremonies Schedule and Procedures

 

Below are the guidelines for this year’s end-of-year ceremonies:

  • Parking will be available in the parking lot behind the building off Kathmoor Dr.
  • Visitors will enter and exit through the rear gym doors, located off the blacktop.
  • Ceremonies will last approximately 30-40 minutes.
  • Please do not bring food, drink, or gifts (no balloons, etc.) to the ceremony.
  • If you have other children at Franconia who you wish to attend their sibling’s EOY ceremony, please coordinate that with their teacher (you can find all staff email links in our online staff directory).
  • If you wish to take your child/children home with you at the conclusion of the ceremony, you will sign them out with a Franconia employee stationed at the exterior gym doors.

 

Please direct any questions to your child’s teacher.

 

Wednesday, 6/7 (first grade)

  • 9:15 - Bolden
  • 10:15 - Bonsall
  • 11:15 - King

Thursday, 6/8 (second grade)

  • 12:00 - Yortzidis
  • 12:45 - Octaviano
  • 1:30 -  Dennison
  • 2:15 - Webbs

Friday, 6/9 (kindergarten)

  • 9:15 - Allen
  • 10:15 - Channon
  • 11:15 - Tran

Monday, 6/12 (third grade)

  • 12:00 - Pina
  • 1:00 - Stump
  • 2:00 - Haffner/ Ms. Jo

Tuesday, 6/13 (fourth grade)

  • 12:30 - Blum
  • 1:30 - Yezefski
  • 2:30 - Rim

Wednesday, 6/14 (fifth grade)

  • 12:00 - Hodge
  • 12:45 - Pater
  • 1:30 - Dickerson   

Thursday, 6/15 (sixth grade)                                                    .

  • 10:00 - All sixth grade classes

 

Twain Parent Coffee Thursday, June 1st at 9:00 am

 

Attention Parents of Rising 7th grade students:

 

There will be a Principal's Coffee for parents at Twain Middle in the cafeteria on Thursday, June 1st at 9:00am. The outcomes of the meeting will be an overview of what to expect in middle school, upcoming dates, and allow time for a Q & A.

 

 

FES PTA Summer Luau Friday, June 9th 5:30-8:30pm Volunteers needed!

 

Are you ready for the BIGGEST end-of-year celebration Franconia Elementary has ever seen?!? Join us on Friday, June 9 from 5:30-8:30 in the back lot for FES Summer Luau! Free to all Franconia families!

Dunk your favorite teachers in our DUNK TANK!

Kids enjoy FREE Snow Cones by Capitol Snow (first come, first serve, max 300. Additional $3 each)

  • Face Paint!
  • Spin Art!
  • Polynesian Dancing
  • And more!

 

To make this event a success, we need YOUR help. Each classroom needs THREE parent volunteers. Make your class proud and volunteer today to send these Penguins into the summer with amazing new memories. https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c084dadad22a4ffc52-fessummer#/

 

Counselor's Corner Mindfulness at Franconia Update

 

At Franconia, we have the unique opportunity of creating a mindfulness lab using our  wellness ESSER funds. Mindfulness is all about being in the present moment. In the lab, we have created opportunities for students to be in the present moment by creating mindfulness centers. Students can explore different mindfulness centers such as reading, breathing, art, affirmations, games and mindful movement. This space has provided an opportunity for student wellness by causing students to relax mentally, emotionally and physically. Also in the lab, as special treat to our students, we have a comfort dog named Charlie who visits with classes in the lab!

Take a look at one of our spotlighted classes in the mindfulness lab:

 Students had fun participating in mindfulness centers in Mrs. Blum's Class!

https://flip.com/s/8HnfrBicjXn1

 

  Calling All New Kindergarteners!


Any families who have an incoming kindergartener for the 2023-24 school year are invited to sign up for an optional kindergarten summer assessment time in August. This will be a brief 20 minute visit with a kindergarten teacher to let us get to know their strengths before starting school. Families can sign up here- Kindergarten Summer Assessment Sign Up

 

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

  FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

  Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

.

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 5/24/23

GovDelivery2 weeks 1 day ago
  UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Monday, 5/29 - Memorial Day Holiday, NO SCHOOL
  • Friday, 6/2 - ALL Library Books Due
  • Monday, 6/5 - Field Day
  • Monday, 6/5-Friday, 6/9 -  Book Fair Week
  • Tuesday, 6/6 - RAIN DATE Field Day
  • Wednesday, 6/6 - First Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Thursday, 6/8 - Second Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Friday, 6/9 - Kindergarten Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Friday, 6/9 - FES PTA Luau, 5:30 pm-8:30pm
  • Monday, 6/12 -  Third Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Tuesday, 6/13 - Fourth Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Wednesday, 6/14 - Fifth Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Thursday, 6/15 - Sixth Grade EOY Ceremony, 10:00 AM in the Gym
  • Friday, 6/16 - Talent Show  9:00 AM -11:00 AM
  • Friday, 6/16 - Last Day of School, 2 Hour Early Release

 

 

SOL Assessments Grades 3-6

 

Please ensure your child gets a good night's sleep the night before and eats a healthy breakfast.

 

5/25 - 6th Grade Math

5/26 - Makeups

5/23 - 5/27 - Expedited retakes

 

   Calendar Reminder  No School Monday - Memorial Day Holiday

 

May 29 - Memorial Day Holiday

As a reminder, all schools and offices will be closed on Monday, May 29, for the Memorial Day holiday. Classes will resume on Tuesday, May 30.

 

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

 

P.E. News

 

  Super Franconia World Spirit Week

To celebrate our upcoming Field Day we are having a spirit week!

 

Monday 5/29 - No school

Tuesday 5/30 - Dress like your P.E. teacher for the day. 

Wednesday 5/31 - Jersey Day

Thursday 6/1 - Dress like your favorite video game character

 Friday 6/2 - What Team Are You?

  •  Wear RED for team Mario  
  • Wear GREEN for team Luigi
  • Wear PINK for team Peach  
  • Wear BLACK for team Bowser

 Monday 6/5 - FIELD DAY! Wear your field day shirt or Franconia Gear!  

 

~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~

 

  Field Day is Coming! Super Franconia World Gr K-2: Monday, June 5th, 2023 8:30 AM-Noon Gr 3-6 Monday, June 5th, 2023 12:00-3:00PM Rain Date (Same Times) June 6th

 

Here is our Super Franconia Field Day Signup form.  Please sign up for volunteer days for either one or both sessions and if you’d like to donate any materials or props for field day

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4EABAC2EAAFDC52-super

 

Library News Last Call for Library Books! All Books Due 6/2

 

Due date for all library books is Friday, June 2nd.  Please take a moment to gather any books you may have forgotten and return them to the library.

 

~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~  ~

 

  The Book Fair is Coming! Sign up to Volunteer

 

The Book Fair is coming June 5th to June 9th!

It will be open to students during the school day.

Families may shop after school on Tuesday, June 6 until 6:15 and on Friday, June 9 during the Luau!

 

Volunteers sign up here:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040E4CAEAD2FAAF49-book4

 

 

Summer Learning Programs  (Bridge to Kindergarten, SOAR, Youth Scholars)

 

Registration for our summer learning programs has been sent out to students who are eligible. If your student was selected, please complete the registration form as soon as possible as space is limited.

 

 

Girl Scout Interest Meeting May 25th

Do you know of a girl who is coming to kindergarten next year who may be interested in Girl Scouts? We have an interest meeting Thursday, May 25th from 6-7pm in the Franconia Cafeteria. Bring your daughter for some fun activities while the adults discuss and answer questions about Girl Scouts. Hope to see you there!

 

If you are unable to make the meeting, please contact Cathleen Murphy ([email protected]) for more information about Girl Scouts. 

 

  Calling All New Kindergarteners!


Any families who have an incoming kindergartener for the 2023-24 school year are invited to sign up for an optional kindergarten summer assessment time in August. This will be a brief 20 minute visit with a kindergarten teacher to let us get to know their strengths before starting school. Families can sign up here- Kindergarten Summer Assessment Sign Up

 

 

 

AAPI Celebrations and Events

Happy Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month! This month we honor the heritage and contributions of Americans with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific.   Here are some  AAPI celebrations/events around the DMV…

 

Sunday, May 28 @ 5:00

Asiantque Food Festival

6911 Columbia Pike, Annandale

Free

 

 

 

FES PTA Summer Luau Friday, June 9 5:30-8:30pm

 

Celebrate the end of the school year with your fellow Penguin families.

Activities include: Train Rides * Polynesian Dancing * Dunk Tank * Games * Airbrush Tattoo * Crafts * Face Painting * Spin Art* Snacks

You won't want to miss it!

 

  Pet Food Drive Benefiting HART The Franconia Student Council Association is calling all Penguins!  

 

We need your help!  We will be collecting donations of canned dog food and canned cat food to benefit the animals of  HART.  This organization helps abandoned and stray animals by getting the medical care they need, and finding them a loving home.  Please consider donating.

  • They are accepting all types of canned dog food
  • They have requested donations of Nutro Natural Choice Kitten food and Nutro Natural Choice Adult Cat food

 

OUR GOAL IS TO COLLECT 1,000 CANS!

If we reach our goal, students will enjoy a school-wide Donuts and Dance Party!

(alternate treats will be provided for students with food allergies)

Collection bins will be located by the main office, and in the kindergarten/SACC hallway

 

Collection dates are April 26 - May 26

 

To make a monetary donation to HART, click here.

 

 

Counselor's Corner Mindfulness at Franconia Update

 

At Franconia, we have the unique opportunity of creating a mindfulness lab using our  wellness ESSER funds. Mindfulness is all about being in the present moment. In the lab, we have created opportunities for students to be in the present moment by creating mindfulness centers. Students can explore different mindfulness centers such as reading, breathing, art, affirmations, games and mindful movement. This space has provided an opportunity for student wellness by causing students to relax mentally, emotionally and physically. Also in the lab, as special treat to our students, we have a comfort dog named Charlie who visits with classes in the lab!

Take a look at one of our spotlighted classes in the mindfulness lab:

Ms. Allen's Class! Students had fun participating in mindfulness centers.

https://flip.com/s/d66Vrw7EgJoK

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~ 

Character Trait for the Month

May's character trait is Resilience-When things are hard, you don't give up, but bounce back.

April's character trait was Responsibility-doing what is expected and taking ownership of your actions/behavior. Here is a video of our Responsibility award winners.https://flip.com/s/kh4ynfQJ4jFR

 

Twain Parent Coffee Thursday, June 1st at 9:00 am

 

Attention Parents of Rising 7th grade students:

 

There will be a Principal's Coffee for parents at Twain Middle in the cafeteria on Thursday, June 1st at 9:00am. The outcomes of the meeting will be an overview of what to expect in middle school, upcoming dates, and allow time for a Q & A.

 

 

End of Year Recognition Ceremonies Schedule and Procedures

 

Below are the guidelines for this year’s end-of-year ceremonies:

  • Parking will be available in the parking lot behind the building off Kathmoor Dr.
  • Visitors will enter and exit through the rear gym doors, located off the blacktop.
  • Ceremonies will last approximately 30-40 minutes.
  • Please do not bring food, drink, or gifts (no balloons, etc.) to the ceremony.
  • If you have other children at Franconia who you wish to attend their sibling’s EOY ceremony, please coordinate that with their teacher (you can find all staff email links in our online staff directory).
  • If you wish to take your child/children home with you at the conclusion of the ceremony, you will sign them out with a Franconia employee stationed at the exterior gym doors.

 

Please direct any questions to your child’s teacher.

 

Wednesday, 6/7 (first grade)

  • 9:15 - Bolden
  • 10:15 - Bonsall
  • 11:15 - King

Thursday, 6/8 (second grade)

  • 12:00 - Yortzidis
  • 12:45 - Octaviano
  • 1:30 -  Dennison
  • 2:15 - Webbs

Friday, 6/9 (kindergarten)

  • 9:15 - Allen
  • 10:15 - Channon
  • 11:15 - Tran

Monday, 6/12 (third grade)

  • 12:00 - Pina
  • 1:00 - Stump
  • 2:00 - Haffner/ Ms. Jo

Tuesday, 6/13 (fourth grade)

  • 12:30 - Blum
  • 1:30 - Yezefski
  • 2:30 - Rim

Wednesday, 6/14 (fifth grade)

  • 12:00 - Hodge
  • 12:45 - Pater
  • 1:30 - Dickerson   

Thursday, 6/15 (sixth grade)                                                    .

  • 10:00 - All sixth grade classes

 

  How Do YOU Practice Wellness? Sign up to share on the morning news

 

Penguins, we want to know how you practice wellness in your life. Use the link below to sign up for a Wednesday to share a video showing your wellness journey with your fellow Franconia Penguins. Videos should be 3 minutes or less. Be sure to include yourself talking about why the wellness practice is important to you, and how it helps you. (if you need to include 2 shorter videos, one showing the activity and one of the student discussing the activity, that is fine and I can combine them for you. They should be no more than 3 minutes when combined.) 

 

You can show yourself practicing wellness by:

- a sport you play (for example soccer, gymnastics, martial arts training, etc)

- practicing a skill you're learning (for example dance, playing an instrument, or any other artistic/creative expessions)

- showing activities your family enjoys together (for example, taking walks together, cooking meals together, family game time, etc)

- showing activities you enjoy doing when enjoying alone time (for example reading or drawing)

 

Use this link to sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AA4A928A6FB6-wellness

 

Ms. Octaviano will contact you the week before your video will air on the morning news with additional information about how to submit your video.

 

If you have any questions, please email Ms. Octaviano at: [email protected]

 

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

  FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

  Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

.

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 5/17/23

GovDelivery3 weeks 1 day ago
  UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Thursday 5/18 - FES Spring Concert, 6:00 pm in the Gym
  • Monday 5/29 - Memorial Day Holiday, NO SCHOOL
  • Friday, 6/2 - ALL Library Books Due
  • Monday 6/5 - Field Day
  • Monday 6/5-Friday 6/9 -  Book Fair Week
  • Tuesday 6/6 - RAIN DATE Field Day
  • Wednesday 6/6 - First Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Thursday 6/8 - Second Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Friday 6/9 - Kindergarten Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Friday 6/9 - FES PTA Luau, 5:30 pm-8:30pm
  • Monday 6/12 -  Third Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Tuesday 6/13 - Fourth Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Wednesday 6/14 - Fifth Grade EOY Ceremonies
  • Thursday 6/15 - Sixth Grade EOY Ceremony, 10:00 AM in the Gym

 

 

SOL Assessments Grades 3-6

 

Please ensure your child gets a good night's sleep the night before and eats a healthy breakfast.

 

5/18 - VAAP

5/19 - Makeups

5/22 - 3rd Grade Math

5/23 - 4th Grade Math

5/24 - 5th Grade Math

5/25 - 6th Grade Math

5/26 - Makeups

5/23 - 5/27 - Expedited retakes

 

  New Pokémon Club Dates!

Are you in to Pokémon?  Do you want to get together with other Franconia Penguins to play Pokémon games and/or trade Pokémon cards?  If you answered "YES" to these questions, then keep reading!  On Friday, May 19th AND May 26th, from 3:30-4:15 (when you sign up, you are signing up for both meetings), Franconia will host a Pokémon after school club meeting. Students are invited to stay after school to enjoy all things Pokémon with their fellow students and some Franconia teachers. Students who sign up will be given a permission slip that must be completed by a guardian and turned in by Friday, May 19th.  SIGNING UP HERE DOES NOT GUARANTEE YOU CAN STAY FOR THE CLUB. SIGNING UP HERE HOLDS YOUR SPOT.  ONLY AFTER THE PERMISSION SLIP IS COMPLETED AND RETURNED WILL YOU BE CONFIRMED TO STAY AND ENJOY THE POKEMON FUN! If you have any questions, please contact Renee Octaviano at [email protected]. 

 

Please review the available slots below and click on the button to sign up. Thank you!

 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AA4A928A6FB6-pokmon3

 

 

Franconia Spring Concert Tomorrow Thursday, May 18, 2023, 2:00 PM & 6:30 PM.

 

Who:

All Chorus, Band and Strings students

When / What to Wear:

Thursday, May 18, 2023 

Daytime Assembly 2:00 p.m. in the Gym

Report at 1:30 to Music Room FIRST if you are CHORUS, then the gym if you also are band or strings / Gym FIRST if you are in Band or Strings

Evening Performance 6:30 p.m. (Doors open at 6:15)

Call time is 5:30 for Chorus Students in Ms. Lucius’s music room

Call time for Band/Strings is NO LATER THAN 6:00 in the gym

Concert Attire:

Daytime Assembly: School colors! Green/Yellow/White (whatever you want for pants/shoes)

Evening Performance: White dress shirts or blouses, black pants / LONG black skirts/ black shoes. (no holes / crop shirts / prints)

Contact Jen Lucius at [email protected] if you have questions

 

   ~    ~    ~    ~   ~    ~    ~    ~    ~

  Lion King Performance Available 

Looking for a  MOVIE NIGHT idea for you and your family this weekend?! Watch Franconia’s The Lion King-Kids on Youtube!

https://youtu.be/fdN8cDsvUZI

Hungry for more? Watch The Music Man from last year’s musical!

https://youtu.be/IQYReBpJcuM

 

Library News Last Call for Library Books! All Books Due 6/2

 

Due date for all library books is Friday, June 2nd.  Please take a moment to gather any books you may have forgotten and return them to the library.

 

~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~  ~

 

  The Book Fair is Coming! Sign up to Volunteer

 

The Book Fair is coming June 5th to June 9th!

It will be open to students during the school day.

Families may shop after school on Tuesday, June 6 until 6:15 and on Friday, June 9 during the Luau!

 

Volunteers sign up here:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040E4CAEAD2FAAF49-book4

 

P.E. News

 

  Super Franconia World Spirit Week

To celebrate our upcoming Field Day we are having a spirit week!

 

Monday 5/29 - No school

Tuesday 5/30 - Dress like your P.E. teacher for the day. 

Wednesday 5/31 - Jersey Day

Thursday 6/1 - Dress like your favorite video game character

 Friday 6/2 - What Team Are You?

  •  Wear RED for team Mario  
  • Wear GREEN for team Luigi
  • Wear PINK for team Peach  
  • Wear BLACK for team Bowser

 Monday 6/5 - FIELD DAY! Wear your field day shirt or Franconia Gear!  

 

~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~

 

  Field Day is Coming! Super Franconia World Gr K-2: Monday, June 5th, 2023 8:30 AM-Noon Gr 3-6 Monday, June 5th, 2023 12:00-3:00PM Rain Date (Same Times) June 6th

 

Here is our Super Franconia Field Day Signup form.  Please sign up for volunteer days for either one or both sessions and if you’d like to donate any materials or props for field day

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4EABAC2EAAFDC52-super

 

  Calling All New Kindergarteners!


Any families who have an incoming kindergartener for the 2023-24 school year are invited to sign up for an optional kindergarten summer assessment time in August. This will be a brief 20 minute visit with a kindergarten teacher to let us get to know their strengths before starting school. Families can sign up here- Kindergarten Summer Assessment Sign Up

 

 

 

AAPI Celebrations and Events

Happy Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month! This month we honor the heritage and contributions of Americans with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific.   Here are some  AAPI celebrations/events around the DMV…

 

Saturday, May 20 @ 11:00

Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Festival

James Lee Community Center, Falls Church, VA

Free

 

Saturday, May 20 @ 11:00

2023 Fiesta Asia Street Fair

400 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington D.C.

 

Sunday, May 21 @  12:00 pm

Asian Festival on Main!

Main Street, Fairfax, VA

Free

 

Sunday, May 28 @ 5:00

Asiantque Food Festival

6911 Columbia Pike, Annandale

Free

 

 

   Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award

 

The Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) is sponsoring an award to honor the legacy of Dr. Lawrence "Larry" Bussey by celebrating the efforts and impact of those who work to redress inequitable systems and practices in FCPS.  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 June 15, 2023.  The winner will be recognized at the FCPS Equity Symposium.

More information and the nomination form can be found at the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award website.

 

  Pet Food Drive Benefiting HART The Franconia Student Council Association is calling all Penguins!  

 

We need your help!  We will be collecting donations of canned dog food and canned cat food to benefit the animals of  HART.  This organization helps abandoned and stray animals by getting the medical care they need, and finding them a loving home.  Please consider donating.

  • They are accepting all types of canned dog food
  • They have requested donations of Nutro Natural Choice Kitten food and Nutro Natural Choice Adult Cat food

 

OUR GOAL IS TO COLLECT 1,000 CANS!

If we reach our goal, students will enjoy a school-wide Donuts and Dance Party!

(alternate treats will be provided for students with food allergies)

Collection bins will be located by the main office, and in the kindergarten/SACC hallway

 

Collection dates are April 26 - May 26

 

To make a monetary donation to HART, click here.

 

 

Counselor's Corner Mindfulness at Franconia Update

 

At Franconia, we have the unique opportunity of creating a mindfulness lab using our  wellness ESSER funds. Mindfulness is all about being in the present moment. In the lab, we have created opportunities for students to be in the present moment by creating mindfulness centers. Students can explore different mindfulness centers such as reading, breathing, art, affirmations, games and mindful movement. This space has provided an opportunity for student wellness by causing students to relax mentally, emotionally and physically. Also in the lab, as special treat to our students, we have a comfort dog named Charlie who visits with classes in the lab!

Take a look at one of our spotlighted classes in the mindfulness lab:

Ms. Allen's Class! Students had fun participating in mindfulness centers.

https://flip.com/s/d66Vrw7EgJoK

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~ 

Character Trait for the Month

May's character trait is Resilience-When things are hard, you don't give up, but bounce back.

April's character trait was Responsibility-doing what is expected and taking ownership of your actions/behavior. Here is a video of our Responsibility award winners.https://flip.com/s/kh4ynfQJ4jFR

 

Twain Parent Coffee Thursday, June 1st at 9:00 am

 

Attention Parents of Rising 7th grade students:

 

There will be a Principal's Coffee for parents at Twain Middle in the cafeteria on Thursday, June 1st at 9:00am. The outcomes of the meeting will be an overview of what to expect in middle school, upcoming dates, and allow time for a Q & A.

 

 

End of Year Recognition Ceremonies Schedule and Procedures

 

Below are the guidelines for this year’s end-of-year ceremonies:

  • Parking will be available in the parking lot behind the building off Kathmoor Dr.
  • Visitors will enter and exit through the rear gym doors, located off the blacktop.
  • Ceremonies will last approximately 30-40 minutes.
  • Please do not bring food, drink, or gifts (no balloons, etc.) to the ceremony.
  • If you have other children at Franconia who you wish to attend their sibling’s EOY ceremony, please coordinate that with their teacher (you can find all staff email links in our online staff directory).
  • If you wish to take your child/children home with you at the conclusion of the ceremony, you will sign them out with a Franconia employee stationed at the exterior gym doors.

 

Please direct any questions to your child’s teacher.

 

Wednesday, 6/7 (first grade)

  • 9:15 - Bolden
  • 10:15 - Bonsall
  • 11:15 - King

Thursday, 6/8 (second grade)

  • 12:00 - Yortzidis
  • 12:45 - Octaviano
  • 1:30 -  Dennison
  • 2:15 - Webbs

Friday, 6/9 (kindergarten)

  • 9:15 - Allen
  • 10:15 - Channon
  • 11:15 - Tran

Monday, 6/12 (third grade)

  • 12:00 - Pina
  • 1:00 - Stump
  • 2:00 - Haffner/ Ms. Jo

Tuesday, 6/13 (fourth grade)

  • 12:30 - Blum
  • 1:30 - Yezefski
  • 2:30 - Rim

Wednesday, 6/14 (fifth grade)

  • 12:00 - Hodge
  • 12:45 - Pater
  • 1:30 - Dickerson   

Thursday, 6/15 (sixth grade)                                                    .

  • 10:00 - All sixth grade classes

 

  How Do YOU Practice Wellness? Sign up to share on the morning news

 

Penguins, we want to know how you practice wellness in your life. Use the link below to sign up for a Wednesday to share a video showing your wellness journey with your fellow Franconia Penguins. Videos should be 3 minutes or less. Be sure to include yourself talking about why the wellness practice is important to you, and how it helps you. (if you need to include 2 shorter videos, one showing the activity and one of the student discussing the activity, that is fine and I can combine them for you. They should be no more than 3 minutes when combined.) 

 

You can show yourself practicing wellness by:

- a sport you play (for example soccer, gymnastics, martial arts training, etc)

- practicing a skill you're learning (for example dance, playing an instrument, or any other artistic/creative expessions)

- showing activities your family enjoys together (for example, taking walks together, cooking meals together, family game time, etc)

- showing activities you enjoy doing when enjoying alone time (for example reading or drawing)

 

Use this link to sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AA4A928A6FB6-wellness

 

Ms. Octaviano will contact you the week before your video will air on the morning news with additional information about how to submit your video.

 

If you have any questions, please email Ms. Octaviano at: [email protected]

 

   Calendar Reminders

 

May 29 - Memorial Day Holiday

As a reminder, all schools and offices will be closed on Monday, May 29, for the Memorial Day holiday. Classes will resume on Tuesday, May 30.

 

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

 

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

  FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

  Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

.

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 5/10/23

GovDelivery4 weeks 1 day ago
  UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Monday, 5/10 - Friday 5/12 - Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week
  • Thursday, 5/11 -  FES PTA General Membership Meeting 7:00 pm
  • Thursday, 5/18 - FES Spring Concert 6:00 pm
  • Monday 5/29 - Memorial Day Holiday, NO SCHOOL

 

 

SOL Assessments Grades 3-6

 

Please ensure your child gets a good night's sleep the night before and eats a healthy breakfast.

 

5/11 -  Makeups

5/12 - 3rd Grade, Reading

5/15 -  Makeups

5/16 - 4th Grade, Reading

5/17 - 5th Grade, Science

5/18 - VAAP

5/19 - Makeups

5/22 - 3rd Grade Math

5/23 - 4th Grade Math

5/24 - 5th Grade Math

5/25 - 6th Grade Math

5/26 - Makeups

5/23 - 5/27 - Expedited retakes

 

 

Staff Appreciation Continues May 11-12

 

Please show your appreciation to the Staff and Teachers at Franconia by helping the PTA spoil them the last couple of days of Staff Appreciation Week!

 

Thursday - Thank You Day - Kids bring in notes, cards, poems to thank their teachers.

Friday - Wish List Day - Kids bring in items from teacher's wish lists.

.

Click HERE to Sign Up to bring a breakfast item Friday, May 12.

Click HERE to access the spreadsheet of individual teacher/staff favorites.

 

  Volunteers Needed-Tiger Night 2023   This Friday, May 12

 

Every spring, Mark Twain Middle School looks forward to the PTA’s popular Tiger Night – a filled event with games, food, and music. This year, they’re teaming up with Create the Change®  to include community service-learning.

 

To make the event successful, They need some more volunteers! Shifts are one hour so that families the evening together. If you know a high school student who needs service hours, this event counts!!  We will provide service hour verification on-site. SIGN UP

 

In the week leading up, students will be collecting much-needed donations for:

 

ECHO – Ecumenical Community Helping Others

Children's clothing – sizes for kindergarten through 8th grade – good condition, please.

 

Good Shepard Housing & Family Services

School supplies.

 

Koinonia

Food pantry items and feminine products.

 

During the event, students will sort and organize the donations and prepare them for transport to each nonprofit. Our service-learning model goes beyond the donation boxes by including staff and volunteers from each nonprofit on site. They will educate students and families about the issue they address and why it’s essential to help our community.

 

WHEN:           Friday, May 12, 2023 

                        6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

 

WHERE:         Mark Twain Middle School

                        4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310

                       

WHO:       Current Mark Twain Middle School students and families

Rising seventh graders and their families from the Edison Pyramid feeder schools:

Bush Hill Elementary School

Cameron Elementary School

Clermont Elementary School

Franconia Elementary School

Mount Eagle Elementary School

Rose Hill Elementary School

 

  New Pokémon Club Dates!

Are you in to Pokémon?  Do you want to get together with other Franconia Penguins to play Pokémon games and/or trade Pokémon cards?  If you answered "YES" to these questions, then keep reading!  On Friday, May 19th AND May 26th, from 3:30-4:15 (when you sign up, you are signing up for both meetings), Franconia will host a Pokémon after school club meeting. Students are invited to stay after school to enjoy all things Pokémon with their fellow students and some Franconia teachers. Students who sign up will be given a permission slip that must be completed by a guardian and turned in by Friday, May 19th.  SIGNING UP HERE DOES NOT GUARANTEE YOU CAN STAY FOR THE CLUB. SIGNING UP HERE HOLDS YOUR SPOT.  ONLY AFTER THE PERMISSION SLIP IS COMPLETED AND RETURNED WILL YOU BE CONFIRMED TO STAY AND ENJOY THE POKEMON FUN! If you have any questions, please contact Renee Octaviano at [email protected]. 

 

Please review the available slots below and click on the button to sign up. Thank you!

 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AA4A928A6FB6-pokmon3

 

 

Franconia Spring Concert Thursday, May 18, 2023, 2:00 PM & 6:30 PM.

 

The spring concert will feature all band, strings and chorus students. All students in these groups are expected to participate in both the school concert and the evening concert.

Students should report to the gym at 6:00 PM to prepare for the concert.  Parents and other guests are encouraged to come to the evening concert.

Parents may come up to take pictures between 6:20 and 6:25, but not during the concert. Video for personal use is acceptable.

For the evening concert, we will dress up and wear WHITE top (button-down & collar preferred, ties are optional) and BLACK bottom (pants or knee-length or lower skirts, socks/stockings and shoes).

For more information, please ask your child’s music teacher: Mr. Jakes (band), Mr. Johnson (strings) or Ms. Lucius (chorus).

 

P.E. News

 

Get Ready for the Pacer

Next week is the 4-6th grade end of year Pacer Test. Please bring appropriate shoes and comfortable clothing to wear while running and make sure to bring your water bottles to Specials on day when you have PE! 

 

~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~

  Super Franconia World Spirit Week

To celebrate our upcoming Field Day we are having a spirit week!

 

Monday 5/29 - No school

Tuesday 5/30 - Dress like your P.E. teacher for the day. 

Wednesday 5/31 - Jersey Day

Thursday 6/1 - Dress like your favorite video game character

 Friday 6/2 - What Team Are You?

  •  Wear RED for team Mario  
  • Wear GREEN for team Luigi
  • Wear PINK for team Peach  
  • Wear BLACK for team Bowser

 Monday 6/5 - FIELD DAY! Wear your field day shirt or Franconia Gear!  

 

~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~

 

  Field Day is Coming! Super Franconia World Gr K-2: Monday, June 5th, 2023 8:30 AM-Noon Gr 3-6 Monday, June 5th, 2023 12:00-3:00PM Rain Date (Same Times) June 6th

 

Here is our Super Franconia Field Day Signup form.  Please sign up for volunteer days for either one or both sessions and if you’d like to donate any materials or props for field day

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4EABAC2EAAFDC52-super

 

 

 

AAPI Celebrations and Events

Happy Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month! This month we honor the heritage and contributions of Americans with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific.   Here are some  AAPI celebrations/events around the DMV…

 

Friday, May 12 @ 12:00

Asian Dances & K-pop Performances

National Museum of Asian Art, Washington D.C.

Free

 

Saturday, May 13 @ 12:00

“I Am Golden” Reading and Book Signing with author Eva Chen

Meyer Auditorium, Freer Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.

Free

 

Saturday, May 13 @ 1:00

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Concert and Reception

Harmony Hall Regional Center, Fort Washington, MD

Free

 

Saturday, May 20 @ 11:00

Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Festival

James Lee Community Center, Falls Church, VA

Free

 

Saturday, May 20 @ 11:00

2023 Fiesta Asia Street Fair

400 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington D.C.

 

Sunday, May 21 @  12:00 pm

Asian Festival on Main!

Main Street, Fairfax, VA

Free

 

Sunday, May 28 @ 5:00

Asiantque Food Festival

6911 Columbia Pike, Annandale

Free

 

BRAVO Lion King Kids!

The Lion King was a HUGE success!! Thank you EVERYONE for your support both behind the scenes and at the performance!!! Ms. Lucius couldn’t be more proud of everyone who participated!!

Donations for next year’s musical are well under way and we appreciate all who donated so far!! At this time, we have raised enough to purchase next year’s musical but would love to raise more so that we may provide costumes, scenery and props. Please share this link with your family and friends so we can put on another wonderful show!!

https://www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/stores/catalog/getproduct?productKey=ZZ5WYD3D5LITBTI&OPTZZ5WYD3D5LITBTI=ZZ5WYD3D5PZTQHT

Thanks again and ON WITH THE SHOW!! – Ms. Lucius

 

.

.

  Pet Food Drive Benefiting HART The Franconia Student Council Association is calling all Penguins!  

 

We need your help!  We will be collecting donations of canned dog food and canned cat food to benefit the animals of  HART.  This organization helps abandoned and stray animals by getting the medical care they need, and finding them a loving home.  Please consider donating.

  • They are accepting all types of canned dog food
  • They have requested donations of Nutro Natural Choice Kitten food and Nutro Natural Choice Adult Cat food

 

OUR GOAL IS TO COLLECT 1,000 CANS!

If we reach our goal, students will enjoy a school-wide Donuts and Dance Party!

(alternate treats will be provided for students with food allergies)

Collection bins will be located by the main office, and in the kindergarten/SACC hallway

 

Collection dates are April 26 - May 26

 

To make a monetary donation to HART, click here.

 

 

Counselor's Corner Mindfulness at Franconia Update

 

At Franconia, we have the unique opportunity of creating a mindfulness lab using our  wellness ESSER funds. Mindfulness is all about being in the present moment. In the lab, we have created opportunities for students to be in the present moment by creating mindfulness centers. Students can explore different mindfulness centers such as reading, breathing, art, affirmations, games and mindful movement. This space has provided an opportunity for student wellness by causing students to relax mentally, emotionally and physically. Also in the lab, as special treat to our students, we have a comfort dog named Charlie who visits with classes in the lab!

Take a look at one of our spotlighted classes in the mindfulness lab:

Mrs. Pina's Class! Students had fun participating in mindfulness centers.

https://flip.com/s/gwyoGxzuKox6

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~ 

Character Trait for the Month

May's character trait is Resilience-When things are hard, you don't give up, but bounce back.

April's character trait was Responsibility-doing what is expected and taking ownership of your actions/behavior. Here is a video of our Responsibility award winners.https://flip.com/s/kh4ynfQJ4jFR

 

Twain Parent Coffee Thursday, June 1st at 9:00 am

 

Attention Parents of Rising 7th grade students:

 

There will be a Principal's Coffee for parents at Twain Middle in the cafeteria on Thursday, June 1st at 9:00am. The outcomes of the meeting will be an overview of what to expect in middle school, upcoming dates, and allow time for a Q & A.

 

Library News Last Call for Library Books! All Books Due 6/2

 

Due date for all library books is Friday, June 2nd.  Please take a moment to gather any books you may have forgotten and return them to the library.

 

~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~   ~  ~

 

 

The Book Fair is Coming!

 

The Spring Book Fair will be June 5-9. Look for volunteer sign-up information next week!

 

 

End of Year Recognition Ceremonies Schedule

 

Wednesday, 6/7 (first grade)

  • 9:15 - Bolden
  • 10:15 - Bonsall
  • 11:15 - King

Thursday, 6/8 (second grade)

  • 12:00 - Yortzidis
  • 12:45 - Octaviano
  • 1:30 -  Dennison
  • 2:15 - Webbs

Friday, 6/9 (kindergarten)

  • 9:15 - Allen
  • 10:15 - Channon
  • 11:15 - Tran

Monday, 6/12 (third grade)

  • 12:00 - Pina
  • 1:00 - Stump
  • 2:00 - Haffner/ Ms. Jo

Tuesday, 6/13 (fourth grade)

  • 12:30 - Blum
  • 1:30 - Yezefski
  • 2:30 - Rim

Wednesday, 6/14 (fifth grade)

  • 12:00 - Hodge
  • 12:45 - Pater
  • 1:30 - Dickerson   

Thursday, 6/15 (sixth grade)                                                    .

  • 10:00 - All sixth grade classes

 

.

 

Advanced Academic Programs (AAP)

 

Screening for Subject Specific (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services

 

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is committed to challenging all students through talent development and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of advanced learners.

 

Screening for Subject Specific (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services

Students can be screened for school-based (level II-III) AAP services at any time in the school year. In the spring, local schools review data on all students to determine services for the start of the next school year.  

 

Screening Process for Subject Specific (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services

Multiple criteria are reviewed holistically to determine eligibility for all FCPS advanced academic services.  Committees consider student work from opportunities with AAP lessons, examples of student reasoning or gifted behaviors from class discussions and activities, progress reports, achievement and ability scores, and parent or guardian input. Committees consider whether students have access to a group of students with similar academic needs to support academic conversations and growth in the classroom.

 

Appeals Process for Subject Specific (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services

If a parent or guardian wishes to appeal an ineligible decision, they may submit an appeal with new data for consideration by the local school screening committee. This new information should be submitted to the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher, Jo-Anne Fouad [email protected] or Assistant Principal.

  Subject Specific and Part-Time Services Overview

 

Subject Specific and Part-Time Services in Elementary School

FCPS offers a continuum of advanced academic services for all students in Grades K-12. The continuum of services approach allows for a focus on matching services to students’ needs rather than labeling students.  Students have:

  • Multiple entry points for deeper learning opportunities in specific areas of need as they develop.
  • A cluster group of students with similar academic needs to support student learning and growth.

Teachers, administrators, and Advanced Academic Resource Teachers (AARTs) work together to provide the following levels of school-based services at the elementary level: Updated 3/13/2023

 

Access to Rigor, Grades K-6 (Level I), Grades K-6 (Level I)

All students have opportunities to think critically, reason, and problem-solve.

  • All teachers use critical and creative thinking strategies in their lessons
  • Classroom teachers provide opportunities using materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework a minimum of once per quarter.

Because Access to Rigor services are for all FCPS students, there is not a screening process.

 

Subject Specific Advanced Differentiation, Grades K-6 (Level II)

Some students require differentiation beyond the needs of age-level peers in their class in at least one specific subject area. Classroom teachers may adjust instruction for students in these areas by:

• Providing different assignments and resources in those subjects,

• Grouping students by their strengths, interests, and readiness, and

• Providing additional challenges using materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework.

Student needs for subject specific differentiation are re-evaluated each year at the local school.

 

Part-Time Advanced Academic Programs, Grades 3-6 (Level III)

Some students have advanced academic abilities in multiple subject areas and require differentiation beyond the needs of age-level peers in their class in multiple content areas.

  • Students work with other students that have similar academic needs through weekly pull-out classes or weekly co-taught lessons with the AART and classroom teacher.
  • Teachers provide frequent opportunities to use materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework in Language Arts, science, social studies, and/or mathematics.

Part-time services continue through Grade 6. Students do not need to be evaluated each year.

 

Screening for Full-Time (Level IV) Services

 

Screening Timeline for Level IV

Screening for level IV AAP services happens at the district/central level rather than by local schools. For your planning for next school year, please know that screening for Level IV services occurs during two specific screening cycles:

  • Fall screening is available for students who are new to FCPS since January.  Fall referrals are due October 15, annually. 
  • Spring screening is available for any Grade 2-7 FCPS-enrolled student. The referral window is from the first day of school - December 15, annually.

For more information, please visit the AAP website at: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/advanced-academics-identification-and-placement/current-fcps-students

 

Full-Time Advanced Academic Programs, Grades 3-8 (Level IV)

Some advanced learners need a full-time advanced academic program with differentiated instruction in all four core content areas (Language Arts, mathematics, social studies, and science). 

Students eligible for full-time AAP services are cluster grouped on a full-time basis and receive:

  • Full-time use of materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework in Language Arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, and
  •  Curriculum that is differentiated through acceleration, depth, and complexity of content.

Full-time services continue through Grade 8. Students do not need to be evaluated each year.

 

Still have Questions?

Feel free to contact our Advanced Academics Resource Teacher (AART),     Jo-Anne Fouad at [email protected]

 

  How Do YOU Practice Wellness? Sign up to share on the morning news

 

Penguins, we want to know how you practice wellness in your life. Use the link below to sign up for a Wednesday to share a video showing your wellness journey with your fellow Franconia Penguins. Videos should be 3 minutes or less. Be sure to include yourself talking about why the wellness practice is important to you, and how it helps you. (if you need to include 2 shorter videos, one showing the activity and one of the student discussing the activity, that is fine and I can combine them for you. They should be no more than 3 minutes when combined.) 

 

You can show yourself practicing wellness by:

- a sport you play (for example soccer, gymnastics, martial arts training, etc)

- practicing a skill you're learning (for example dance, playing an instrument, or any other artistic/creative expessions)

- showing activities your family enjoys together (for example, taking walks together, cooking meals together, family game time, etc)

- showing activities you enjoy doing when enjoying alone time (for example reading or drawing)

 

Use this link to sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AA4A928A6FB6-wellness

 

Ms. Octaviano will contact you the week before your video will air on the morning news with additional information about how to submit your video.

 

If you have any questions, please email Ms. Octaviano at: [email protected]

 

  May Calendar Reminders

 

May 11-12 - Teacher and Staff Appreciation 

 

May 29 - Memorial Day Holiday

As a reminder, all schools and offices will be closed on Monday, May 29, for the Memorial Day holiday. Classes will resume on Tuesday, May 30.

 

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

 

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

  FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

  Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 5/03/23

GovDelivery1 month ago
  UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Friday, 5/5 - School Lunch Hero Day
  • Friday, 5/5 - FES PTA Bingo Night 6:00 pm
  • Monday, 5/8 - Friday 5/12 - Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week
  • Thursday, 5/11 -  FES PTA General Membership Meeting 7:00 pm
  • Thursday, 5/18 - FES Spring Concert 6:00 pm
  • Monday 5/29 - Memorial Day Holiday, NO SCHOOL

 

 

SOL Assessments Grades 3-6

 

Please ensure your child gets a good night's sleep the night before and eats a healthy breakfast.

 

5/4 VAAP

5/6 VAAP

5/8 - 6th Grade, Reading

5/9 - 5th Grade, Reading

5/10 -  VAAP

5/11 -  Makeups

5/12 - 3rd Grade, Reading

5/15 -  Makeups

5/16 - 4th Grade, Reading

5/17 - 5th Grade, Science

5/18 - VAAP

5/19 - Makeups

5/22 - 3rd Grade Math

5/23 - 4th Grade Math

5/24 - 5th Grade Math

5/25 - 6th Grade Math

5/26 - Makeups

5/23 - 5/27 - Expedited retakes

 

 

BRAVO Lion King Kids!

The Lion King was a HUGE success!! Thank you EVERYONE for your support both behind the scenes and at the performance!!! Ms. Lucius couldn’t be more proud of everyone who participated!!

Donations for next year’s musical are well under way and we appreciate all who donated so far!! At this time, we have raised enough to purchase next year’s musical but would love to raise more so that we may provide costumes, scenery and props. Please share this link with your family and friends so we can put on another wonderful show!!

https://www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/stores/catalog/getproduct?productKey=ZZ5WYD3D5LITBTI&OPTZZ5WYD3D5LITBTI=ZZ5WYD3D5PZTQHT

Thanks again and ON WITH THE SHOW!! – Ms. Lucius

 

.

 

School Lunch Hero Day Friday, May 5th 

 

The first Friday in May is School Lunch Hero Day, dedicated to those men and women who make the cafeterias and the schools a better place to be! What was your favorite school lunch? Do you remember the smiling face who served it to you?

For many children, the cafeteria is the first place they enter on a school day. From the first time through the cafeteria line, the lunch hero has more than nutrition on their minds.  The well-being of every child is important to them.  Keeping them safe, happy, and providing them with good and delicious food is also a priority.

Often they see entire families grow up, and sometimes, they are family. The celebration provides students and communities an opportunity to create ways to recognize their school heroes.

How to Observe #SchoolLunchHeroDay

Organize a lunch for your lunch hero! Make a card or bring a flower. Decorate a banner telling your heroes all the ways they are super! Tell your hero, thank you.

School Lunch Hero Day History

Inspired by children’s author and illustrator, Jarrett Krosoczka created School Lunch Hero Day to honor the foodservice employees after returning to his old school, and finding his childhood lunch lady remained and remembered him.

 

  Bingo Night is BACK! Friday May 5, 2023 FES Gym

 

Fun prizes for Bingo winners as well as raffle drawings for fantastic themed prize baskets.

CASH Sales

$2 per Bingo card/ $5 for 4 cards

$2 per raffle ticket/ $5 for 5 tickets

Concession sales (including pizza by the slice) by Edison Class of 2024

 

Thank you to our donors:

Plants N More (Franconia Rd. and Villa St.)

Mary Bowen, Long and Foster Real Estate

Harry Bowen, Long and Foster Real Estate

Your Perfect Massage and Spa

Nalls Produce

Fat City Kitchen

 

  Field Day is Coming! Super Franconia World Gr K-2: Monday, June 5th, 2023 8:30 AM-Noon Gr 3-6 Monday, June 5th, 2023 12:00-3:00PM Rain Date (Same Times) June 6th

 

Here is our Super Franconia Field Day Signup form.  Please sign up for volunteer days for either one or both sessions and if you’d like to donate any materials or props for field day

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4EABAC2EAAFDC52-super

 

.

 

Staff Appreciation Week May 8-12

 

Please show your appreciation to the Staff and Teachers at Franconia by helping the PTA spoil them during Staff Appreciation Week!

 

Monday - Flower Day - Students bring in a flower, drawn , made, or real for their teacher.

Tuesday - Snack Day - Students bring teacher a favorite snack

Wednesday - Specialist Day - Students bring a treat or gift for specials teachers

Thursday - Thank You Day - Kids bring in notes, cards, poems to thank their teachers.

Friday - Wish List Day - Kids bring in items from teacher's wish lists.

 

Click HERE to Sign Up to bring a dessert item next Wednesday, May 10.

Click HERE to Sign Up to bring a breakfast item next Friday, May 12.

Click HERE to access the spreadsheet of individual teacher/staff favorites.

 

  Volunteers Needed-Tiger Night 2023  Friday, May 12

 

Every spring, Mark Twain Middle School looks forward to the PTA’s popular Tiger Night – a filled event with games, food, and music. This year, we’re teaming up with Create the Change®  to include community service-learning.

 

To make the event successful, we need some more volunteers! Shifts are one hour so that families the evening together. If you know a high school student who needs service hours, this event counts!!  We will provide service hour verification on-site. SIGN UP

 

In the week leading up, students will be collecting much-needed donations for:

 

ECHO – Ecumenical Community Helping Others

Children's clothing – sizes for kindergarten through 8th grade – good condition, please.

 

Good Shepard Housing & Family Services

School supplies.

 

Koinonia

Food pantry items and feminine products.

 

During the event, students will sort and organize the donations and prepare them for transport to each nonprofit. Our service-learning model goes beyond the donation boxes by including staff and volunteers from each nonprofit on site. They will educate students and families about the issue they address and why it’s essential to help our community.

 

WHEN:           Friday, May 12, 2023 

                        6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

 

WHERE:         Mark Twain Middle School

                        4700 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310

                       

WHO:       Current Mark Twain Middle School students and families

Rising seventh graders and their families from the Edison Pyramid feeder schools:

Bush Hill Elementary School

Cameron Elementary School

Clermont Elementary School

Franconia Elementary School

Mount Eagle Elementary School

Rose Hill Elementary School

 

 

Franconia Spring Concert Thursday, May 18, 2023, 2:00 PM & 6:30 PM.

 

The spring concert will feature all band, strings and chorus students. All students in these groups are expected to participate in both the school concert and the evening concert.

Students should report to the gym at 6:00 PM to prepare for the concert.  Parents and other guests are encouraged to come to the evening concert.

Parents may come up to take pictures between 6:20 and 6:25, but not during the concert. Video for personal use is acceptable.

For the evening concert, we will dress up and wear WHITE top (button-down & collar preferred, ties are optional) and BLACK bottom (pants or knee-length or lower skirts, socks/stockings and shoes).

For more information, please ask your child’s music teacher: Mr. Jakes (band), Mr. Johnson (strings) or Ms. Lucius (chorus).

 

  Pet Food Drive Benefiting HART The Franconia Student Council Association is calling all Penguins!  

 

We need your help!  We will be collecting donations of canned dog food and canned cat food to benefit the animals of  HART.  This organization helps abandoned and stray animals by getting the medical care they need, and finding them a loving home.  Please consider donating.

  • They are accepting all types of canned dog food
  • They have requested donations of Nutro Natural Choice Kitten food and Nutro Natural Choice Adult Cat food

 

OUR GOAL IS TO COLLECT 1,000 CANS!

If we reach our goal, students will enjoy a school-wide Donuts and Dance Party!

(alternate treats will be provided for students with food allergies)

Collection bins will be located by the main office, and in the kindergarten/SACC hallway

 

Collection dates are April 26 - May 26

 

To make a monetary donation to HART, click here.

 

 

Counselor's Corner Mindfulness at Franconia Update

 

At Franconia, we have the unique opportunity of creating a mindfulness lab using our  wellness ESSER funds. Mindfulness is all about being in the present moment. In the lab, we have created opportunities for students to be in the present moment by creating mindfulness centers. Students can explore different mindfulness centers such as reading, breathing, art, affirmations, games and mindful movement. This space has provided an opportunity for student wellness by causing students to relax mentally, emotionally and physically. Also in the lab, as special treat to our students, we have a comfort dog named Charlie who visits with classes in the lab!

Take a look at one of our spotlighted classes in the mindfulness lab:

Mrs. Pina's Class! Students had fun participating in mindfulness centers.

https://flip.com/s/gwyoGxzuKox6

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~ 

Character Trait for the Month

May's character trait is Resilience-When things are hard, you don't give up, but bounce back.

April's character trait was Responsibility-doing what is expected and taking ownership of your actions/behavior. Here is a video of our Responsibility award winners.https://flip.com/s/kh4ynfQJ4jFR

 

  Franconia Celebrates Our Military Families

Franconia Elementary is a Purple Star designated school.  Purple Star schools have a shared goal of supporting and celebrating military connected students (MCS) of the United States Armed Forces.  These students endure much change in their lives, and FCPS has a shared mission to contribute to these students’ education, connection and resiliency while enrolled with our schools.

During the week of April 17, Franconia celebrated our Military Connected Students with videos on the news show, as well as popsicles on the blacktop on Purple Up Day, Thursday, April 20th.  It was a great opportunity for our Kindergarten through sixth grade MC students to see that there are others in their school community experiencing the same challenges and adventures.  The pictures below reflect the event on April 20th, and the event on April 25th, including our third-grade students that could not attend the event on the 17th due to a poetry celebration.  Thank you to our sixth-grade students, Valentina and Jack (MCS) for helping distribute popsicles for third grade. 

All of us at Franconia’s embrace these students and their families for all that is sacrificed in service to our country and the world! 

.

.

 

Elementary Institute for The Arts

Students in all FCPS schools can enroll in the Elementary Institute for the Arts (EIFTA). EIFTA is a weekly arts enrichment program for students in rising 3rd through 6th grades and will be held during the month of July.  Students take classes in art, music, theatre, and dance every day.   Transportation is provided from around the county. Tuition assistance is available for students who qualify. Check out the website for more information or email [email protected].

 

Twain Parent Coffee Thursday, June 1st at 9:00 am

 

Attention Parents of Rising 7th grade students:

 

There will be a Principal's Coffee for parents at Twain Middle in the cafeteria on Thursday, June 1st at 9:00am. The outcomes of the meeting will be an overview of what to expect in middle school, upcoming dates, and allow time for a Q & A.

 

  Girl Scouts Camp Mariposa

 

Join Girl Scouts Nation's Capital for Camp Mariposa! Experience outdoor fun, arts, and crafts, STEM, and learn what being a Girl Scout is about!

 

For girl grades PreK-5 (girl must be 5 years old by camp time) who are NOT currently Girl Scouts. Monday, June 26th - Thursday, June 29th, 2023, 9am-4pm at Sydenstricker United Methodist Church in Springfield, VA.

 

$50 for all four days - financial assistance is available. Bus included from Franconia ES. 

 

Space is limited. Register at http://tinyurl.com/GSSummerCamp

For more information contact Cheryl Osborne: [email protected] or 703.372.4341

 

.

 

Advanced Academic Programs (AAP)

 

Screening for Subject Specific (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services

 

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is committed to challenging all students through talent development and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of advanced learners.

 

Screening for Subject Specific (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services

Students can be screened for school-based (level II-III) AAP services at any time in the school year. In the spring, local schools review data on all students to determine services for the start of the next school year.  

 

Screening Process for Subject Specific (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services

Multiple criteria are reviewed holistically to determine eligibility for all FCPS advanced academic services.  Committees consider student work from opportunities with AAP lessons, examples of student reasoning or gifted behaviors from class discussions and activities, progress reports, achievement and ability scores, and parent or guardian input. Committees consider whether students have access to a group of students with similar academic needs to support academic conversations and growth in the classroom.

 

Appeals Process for Subject Specific (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services

If a parent or guardian wishes to appeal an ineligible decision, they may submit an appeal with new data for consideration by the local school screening committee. This new information should be submitted to the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher, Jo-Anne Fouad [email protected] or Assistant Principal.

  Subject Specific and Part-Time Services Overview

 

Subject Specific and Part-Time Services in Elementary School

FCPS offers a continuum of advanced academic services for all students in Grades K-12. The continuum of services approach allows for a focus on matching services to students’ needs rather than labeling students.  Students have:

  • Multiple entry points for deeper learning opportunities in specific areas of need as they develop.
  • A cluster group of students with similar academic needs to support student learning and growth.

Teachers, administrators, and Advanced Academic Resource Teachers (AARTs) work together to provide the following levels of school-based services at the elementary level: Updated 3/13/2023

 

Access to Rigor, Grades K-6 (Level I), Grades K-6 (Level I)

All students have opportunities to think critically, reason, and problem-solve.

  • All teachers use critical and creative thinking strategies in their lessons
  • Classroom teachers provide opportunities using materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework a minimum of once per quarter.

Because Access to Rigor services are for all FCPS students, there is not a screening process.

 

Subject Specific Advanced Differentiation, Grades K-6 (Level II)

Some students require differentiation beyond the needs of age-level peers in their class in at least one specific subject area. Classroom teachers may adjust instruction for students in these areas by:

• Providing different assignments and resources in those subjects,

• Grouping students by their strengths, interests, and readiness, and

• Providing additional challenges using materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework.

Student needs for subject specific differentiation are re-evaluated each year at the local school.

 

Part-Time Advanced Academic Programs, Grades 3-6 (Level III)

Some students have advanced academic abilities in multiple subject areas and require differentiation beyond the needs of age-level peers in their class in multiple content areas.

  • Students work with other students that have similar academic needs through weekly pull-out classes or weekly co-taught lessons with the AART and classroom teacher.
  • Teachers provide frequent opportunities to use materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework in Language Arts, science, social studies, and/or mathematics.

Part-time services continue through Grade 6. Students do not need to be evaluated each year.

 

Screening for Full-Time (Level IV) Services

 

Screening Timeline for Level IV

Screening for level IV AAP services happens at the district/central level rather than by local schools. For your planning for next school year, please know that screening for Level IV services occurs during two specific screening cycles:

  • Fall screening is available for students who are new to FCPS since January.  Fall referrals are due October 15, annually. 
  • Spring screening is available for any Grade 2-7 FCPS-enrolled student. The referral window is from the first day of school - December 15, annually.

For more information, please visit the AAP website at: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/advanced-academics-identification-and-placement/current-fcps-students

 

Full-Time Advanced Academic Programs, Grades 3-8 (Level IV)

Some advanced learners need a full-time advanced academic program with differentiated instruction in all four core content areas (Language Arts, mathematics, social studies, and science). 

Students eligible for full-time AAP services are cluster grouped on a full-time basis and receive:

  • Full-time use of materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework in Language Arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, and
  •  Curriculum that is differentiated through acceleration, depth, and complexity of content.

Full-time services continue through Grade 8. Students do not need to be evaluated each year.

 

Still have Questions?

Feel free to contact our Advanced Academics Resource Teacher (AART),     Jo-Anne Fouad at [email protected]

 

  Safety and Security Town Hall at South Lakes High School

 

FCPS will host a community conversation to discuss our approach to safety and security, and the work we do every day to keep our schools safe. Join us Monday, May 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at South Lakes High School. Registration information will be available soon.. 

FCPS staff and experts will review our risk assessment processes, the physical measures we already have in place to protect our students and staff, pilot programs to detect vaping, and how we communicate and collaborate with our partners when there is an incident at our schools.

 

  How Do YOU Practice Wellness? Sign up to share on the morning news

 

Penguins, we want to know how you practice wellness in your life. Use the link below to sign up for a Wednesday to share a video showing your wellness journey with your fellow Franconia Penguins. Videos should be 3 minutes or less. Be sure to include yourself talking about why the wellness practice is important to you, and how it helps you. (if you need to include 2 shorter videos, one showing the activity and one of the student discussing the activity, that is fine and I can combine them for you. They should be no more than 3 minutes when combined.) 

 

You can show yourself practicing wellness by:

- a sport you play (for example soccer, gymnastics, martial arts training, etc)

- practicing a skill you're learning (for example dance, playing an instrument, or any other artistic/creative expessions)

- showing activities your family enjoys together (for example, taking walks together, cooking meals together, family game time, etc)

- showing activities you enjoy doing when enjoying alone time (for example reading or drawing)

 

Use this link to sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AA4A928A6FB6-wellness

 

Ms. Octaviano will contact you the week before your video will air on the morning news with additional information about how to submit your video.

 

If you have any questions, please email Ms. Octaviano at: [email protected]

 

  Help Needed in the Library

Do you have a spare moment in the day to lend Mrs. Vandersande a hand?

The library needs volunteers to help scan in returns and shelve books any time during the school day.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040e4caead2faaf49-library1#/

 

  May Calendar Reminders

 

May 8-12 - Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week

 

May 29 - Memorial Day Holiday

As a reminder, all schools and offices will be closed on Monday, May 29, for the Memorial Day holiday. Classes will resume on Tuesday, May 30.

 

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

 

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

  FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

  Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 4/26/23

GovDelivery1 month 1 week ago
  UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Wednesday, 4/26 - FES PTA Restaurant Night  at La Fiamma
  • Wednesday, 4/26 - Talent Show Permission Slips Due
  • Thursday, 4/26 and Friday, 4/28 - Lion King Kids Musical 6:30 pm
  • Wednesday, 5/3 - Bike to School Day
  • Friday, 5/5 - School Lunch Hero Day
  • Friday, 5/5 - FES PTA Bingo Night 6:00 pm
  • Monday, 5/8 - Friday 5/12 - Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week
  • Thursday, 5/11 -  FES PTA General Membership Meeting 7:00 pm
  • Monday 5/29 - Memorial Day Holiday, NO SCHOOL

 

 

La Fiamma Restaurant Night Tonight

Support your Franconia PTA and make dinner easy! Dine in or carry out at La Fiamma 6124 Franconia Rd. Alexandria, VA 22310 for dinner  TONIGHT, and a portion of proceeds will be donated to the PTA for events and activities that support all students.

You MUST indicate that you are dining with Franconia PTA Restaurant Night when placing your order either in person or via phone.

La Fiamma's famous children's dining room will be staffed and available on a first-come, first served basis.

https://lafiammaitalian.com/

 

  Lion King Kids Musical Last Call For Tickets

 

LAST CALL to Reserve your Lion King Tickets NOW! Come see these amazing Penguin Performers showcase their various talents in our long-anticipated musical!  Doors open BOTH NIGHTS at 6:15. Click the links below to reserve your FREE tickets to the performances!

 

HERE is the link to reserve your seats for Thursday April 27th at 6:30

HERE is the link to reserve your seats for Friday April 28th at 6:30

 

.

 

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.

 

                                      ~  ~  ~  ~  ~   ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~

 

Franconia Elementary is a Purple Star designated school.  Purple Star schools have a shared goal of supporting and celebrating military connected students (MCS) of the United States Armed Forces.  These students endure much change in their lives, and FCPS has a shared mission to contribute to these students’ education, connection and resiliency while enrolled with our schools.

During the week of April 17, Franconia celebrated our Military Connected Students with videos on the news show, as well as popsicles on the blacktop on Purple Up Day, Thursday, April 20th.  It was a great opportunity for our Kindergarten through sixth grade MC students to see that there are others in their school community experiencing the same challenges and adventures.  The pictures below reflect the event on April 20th, and the event on April 25th, including our third-grade students that could not attend the event on the 17th due to a poetry celebration.  Thank you to our sixth-grade students, Valentina and Jack (MCS) for helping distribute popsicles for third grade. 

All of us at Franconia’s embrace these students and their families for all that is sacrificed in service to our country and the world! 

.

.

.

  LAST CALL... For Field Day Shirts!

If you haven't ordered your field Day shirt, the time is now!  This is your last opportunity to order your 2023 Super Franconia World T-shirts.  While we don’t yet have a specific date for field day, the PE team is well into planning the event! We have decided on a ‘Super Franconia World’ / video game theme! Below you can find the link to order shirts for field day! The shirts will arrive around the end of April/beginning of May. Plan for field day in May or June and we’re excited to get out more details once we have them! https://www.customink.com/g/nsn0-00cq-kfst

-Miss Borsos and Mr. Harris

.

.

  Pet Food Drive Benefiting HART The Franconia Student Council Association is calling all Penguins!  

 

We need your help!  We will be collecting donations of canned dog food and canned cat food to benefit the animals of  HART.  This organization helps abandoned and stray animals by getting the medical care they need, and finding them a loving home.  Please consider donating.

  • They are accepting all types of canned dog food
  • They have requested donations of Nutro Natural Choice Kitten food and Nutro Natural Choice Adult Cat food

 

OUR GOAL IS TO COLLECT 1,000 CANS!

If we reach our goal, students will enjoy a school-wide Donuts and Dance Party!

(alternate treats will be provided for students with food allergies)

Collection bins will be located by the main office, and in the kindergarten/SACC hallway

 

Collection dates are April 26 - May 26

 

To make a monetary donation to HART, click here.

 

 

  Bingo Night is BACK! Save the Date- Friday May 5, 2023

 

Join your fellow Penguins for a family-friendly night of fun and prizes.

Prizes for Bingo winners as well as raffle drawings for fantastic prize packages

.

Thank you to our donors:

Plants N More

Mary Bowen, Long and Foster Real Estate

Harry Bowen, Long and Foster Real Estate

Your Perfect Massage and Spa

Nalls Produce

Fat City Kitchen

 

Counselor's Corner Mindfulness at Franconia Update

 

At Franconia, we have the unique opportunity of creating a mindfulness lab using our  wellness ESSER funds. Mindfulness is all about being in the present moment. In the lab, we have created opportunities for students to be in the present moment by creating mindfulness centers. Students can explore different mindfulness centers such as reading, breathing, art, affirmations, games and mindful movement. This space has provided an opportunity for student wellness by causing students to relax mentally, emotionally and physically. Also in the lab, as special treat to our students, we have a comfort dog named Charlie who visits with classes in the lab!

Take a look at one of our spotlighted classes in the mindfulness lab:

Ms. Johnson’s Class! Students had fun participating in mindfulness centers.

https://youtu.be/MN-vFyXWuBM

 

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~ 

Guidance Topics for April

 

K-2- How to be a responsible citizen by showing kindness.

3rd grade- We will learn different test taking tips and how to stay mindful throughout testing.

 

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~ 

Character Trait for the Month

 

April's character trait is Responsibility-doing what is expected and taking ownership of your actions/behavior.

 

March's Character Trait was Patience-to wait calmly without complaining. Check out this video with our student highlights for patience:

https://flip.com/s/6ESMsjxEyWH_

 

  Brownie Troop 53110 Plant a Garden

.

Two weeks ago, our own Brownie Troop 53110 took on a community beautification project and planted a garden around our Franconia sign.  Next time you are passing by school, take a look and enjoy the results of their hard work and green thumbs!

.

 

Advanced Academic Programs (AAP)

 

Screening for Subject Specific (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services

 

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is committed to challenging all students through talent development and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of advanced learners.

 

Screening for Subject Specific (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services

Students can be screened for school-based (level II-III) AAP services at any time in the school year. In the spring, local schools review data on all students to determine services for the start of the next school year.  

 

Screening Process for Subject Specific (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services

Multiple criteria are reviewed holistically to determine eligibility for all FCPS advanced academic services.  Committees consider student work from opportunities with AAP lessons, examples of student reasoning or gifted behaviors from class discussions and activities, progress reports, achievement and ability scores, and parent or guardian input. Committees consider whether students have access to a group of students with similar academic needs to support academic conversations and growth in the classroom.

 

Appeals Process for Subject Specific (Level II) and Part-Time (Level III) Services

If a parent or guardian wishes to appeal an ineligible decision, they may submit an appeal with new data for consideration by the local school screening committee. This new information should be submitted to the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher, Jo-Anne Fouad [email protected] or Assistant Principal.

  Subject Specific and Part-Time Services Overview

 

Subject Specific and Part-Time Services in Elementary School

FCPS offers a continuum of advanced academic services for all students in Grades K-12. The continuum of services approach allows for a focus on matching services to students’ needs rather than labeling students.  Students have:

  • Multiple entry points for deeper learning opportunities in specific areas of need as they develop.
  • A cluster group of students with similar academic needs to support student learning and growth.

Teachers, administrators, and Advanced Academic Resource Teachers (AARTs) work together to provide the following levels of school-based services at the elementary level: Updated 3/13/2023

 

Access to Rigor, Grades K-6 (Level I), Grades K-6 (Level I)

All students have opportunities to think critically, reason, and problem-solve.

  • All teachers use critical and creative thinking strategies in their lessons
  • Classroom teachers provide opportunities using materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework a minimum of once per quarter.

Because Access to Rigor services are for all FCPS students, there is not a screening process.

 

Subject Specific Advanced Differentiation, Grades K-6 (Level II)

Some students require differentiation beyond the needs of age-level peers in their class in at least one specific subject area. Classroom teachers may adjust instruction for students in these areas by:

• Providing different assignments and resources in those subjects,

• Grouping students by their strengths, interests, and readiness, and

• Providing additional challenges using materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework.

Student needs for subject specific differentiation are re-evaluated each year at the local school.

 

Part-Time Advanced Academic Programs, Grades 3-6 (Level III)

Some students have advanced academic abilities in multiple subject areas and require differentiation beyond the needs of age-level peers in their class in multiple content areas.

  • Students work with other students that have similar academic needs through weekly pull-out classes or weekly co-taught lessons with the AART and classroom teacher.
  • Teachers provide frequent opportunities to use materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework in Language Arts, science, social studies, and/or mathematics.

Part-time services continue through Grade 6. Students do not need to be evaluated each year.

 

Screening for Full-Time (Level IV) Services

 

Screening Timeline for Level IV

Screening for level IV AAP services happens at the district/central level rather than by local schools. For your planning for next school year, please know that screening for Level IV services occurs during two specific screening cycles:

  • Fall screening is available for students who are new to FCPS since January.  Fall referrals are due October 15, annually. 
  • Spring screening is available for any Grade 2-7 FCPS-enrolled student. The referral window is from the first day of school - December 15, annually.

For more information, please visit the AAP website at: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/advanced-academics-identification-and-placement/current-fcps-students

 

Full-Time Advanced Academic Programs, Grades 3-8 (Level IV)

Some advanced learners need a full-time advanced academic program with differentiated instruction in all four core content areas (Language Arts, mathematics, social studies, and science). 

Students eligible for full-time AAP services are cluster grouped on a full-time basis and receive:

  • Full-time use of materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework in Language Arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, and
  •  Curriculum that is differentiated through acceleration, depth, and complexity of content.

Full-time services continue through Grade 8. Students do not need to be evaluated each year.

 

Still have Questions?

Feel free to contact our Advanced Academics Resource Teacher (AART),     Jo-Anne Fouad at [email protected]

 

 

School Lunch Hero Day Friday, May 5th 

 

The first Friday in May is School Lunch Hero Day, dedicated to those men and women who make the cafeterias and the schools a better place to be! What was your favorite school lunch? Do you remember the smiling face who served it to you?

For many children, the cafeteria is the first place they enter on a school day. From the first time through the cafeteria line, the lunch hero has more than nutrition on their minds.  The well-being of every child is important to them.  Keeping them safe, happy, and providing them with good and delicious food is also a priority.

Often they see entire families grow up, and sometimes, they are family. The celebration provides students and communities an opportunity to create ways to recognize their school heroes.

How to Observe #SchoolLunchHeroDay

Organize a lunch for your lunch hero! Make a card or bring a flower. Decorate a banner telling your heroes all the ways they are super! Tell your hero, thank you.

School Lunch Hero Day History

Inspired by children’s author and illustrator, Jarrett Krosoczka created School Lunch Hero Day to honor the foodservice employees after returning to his old school, and finding his childhood lunch lady remained and remembered him.

 

  Save the Date! Safety and Security Town Hall

 

On Monday, May 8, FCPS will hold a town hall to discuss our approach to safety and security and the work we do every day to keep our schools safe. FCPS staff and experts will review our risk assessment processes, the physical measures we already have in place to protect our students and staff, pilot programs to detect vaping, and how we communicate and collaborate with our partners when there is an incident at our schools. Please stay tuned for additional details. 

 

  How Do YOU Practice Wellness? Sign up to share on the morning news

 

Penguins, we want to know how you practice wellness in your life. Use the link below to sign up for a Wednesday to share a video showing your wellness journey with your fellow Franconia Penguins. Videos should be 3 minutes or less. Be sure to include yourself talking about why the wellness practice is important to you, and how it helps you. (if you need to include 2 shorter videos, one showing the activity and one of the student discussing the activity, that is fine and I can combine them for you. They should be no more than 3 minutes when combined.) 

 

You can show yourself practicing wellness by:

- a sport you play (for example soccer, gymnastics, martial arts training, etc)

- practicing a skill you're learning (for example dance, playing an instrument, or any other artistic/creative expessions)

- showing activities your family enjoys together (for example, taking walks together, cooking meals together, family game time, etc)

- showing activities you enjoy doing when enjoying alone time (for example reading or drawing)

 

Use this link to sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AA4A928A6FB6-wellness

 

Ms. Octaviano will contact you the week before your video will air on the morning news with additional information about how to submit your video.

 

If you have any questions, please email Ms. Octaviano at: [email protected]

 

 Edison Tennis Camp  Learn How to Play Tennis!

 

Lessons are open to students in Grades 3 - 12

June 20th - 24th

9am- Noon

at the Edison HS tennis courts, 5801 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310

 

**Beginner Friendly**

 

Rates
Weekly Rate: $150 for beginners | $200 for advanced
Daily Rate: $40/day for beginners | $50/day for advanced

 

Hurry Space is Limited!
Contact Coach W at [email protected] to sign up!

Sponsored by the Edison Booster Club

 

  Help Needed in the Library

Do you have a spare moment in the day to lend Mrs. Vandersande a hand?

The library needs volunteers to help scan in returns and shelve books any time during the school day.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040e4caead2faaf49-library1#/

 

   Calendar Reminders

 

May 3 - Bike to School Day

 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. Wednesday, May 3, 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. Register for Bike to School Day.

 

May 8-12 - Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week

 

May 29 - Memorial Day Holiday

As a reminder, all schools and offices will be closed on Monday, May 29, for the Memorial Day holiday. Classes will resume on Tuesday, May 30.

 

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

 

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

  FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

  Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 4/19/23

GovDelivery1 month 2 weeks ago
  UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Wednesday, 4/19 - Kindergarten Orientation 5:30pm-6:30pm
  • Friday, 4/21 -  Holiday - Eid al Fitr
  • Wednesday, 4/26 - FES PTA Restaurant Night  at La Fiamma
  • Wednesday, 4/26 - Talent Show Permission Slips Due
  • Thursday, 4/26 and Friday, 4/28 - Lion King Kids Musical 6:30 pm

 

   Kindergarten Orientation TONIGHT

Do you have a child who will be 5 years of age by September 30, 2023, and do you plan on sending them to kindergarten at Franconia for the 2023-2024 school year?

We are in the process of preparing for our kindergarten registration and orientation.  If your child is ready for kindergarten, call the school at 703-822-2200 so we may add you to our list of rising kindergarten students.

Please consider joining us at the school with your future kindergartener for our Kindergarten Orientation TONIGHT from 5:30-6:30pm.  During this presentation, we will provide information about the kindergarten program at Franconia Elementary, while the future kindergarteners get to explore the classroom, participate in fun kindergarten activities, and take a ride on a school bus around the neighborhood. 

❤ Kindergarten Team

 

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.

 

Franconia is proud to be a Purple Star School.  The Purple Star designation is awarded to military-friendly schools that have demonstrated their commitment to meeting the needs of military-connected students and their families. 

 

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

 

Purple Up Spirit Week!

Just one day left  for our school to visibly show our support and thank our military children for their strength and sacrifice.

 

Thursday, April 20 - PJ Day to start the long weekend

Friday, April 21 - NO SCHOOL

 

 

La Fiamma Restaurant Night Tonight

 

Support your Franconia PTA and make dinner easy! Dine in or carry out at La Fiamma 6124 Franconia Rd. Alexandria, VA 22310 for dinner  TONIGHT, and a portion of proceeds will be donated to the PTA for events and activities that support all students.

You MUST indicate that you are dining with Franconia PTA Restaurant Night when placing your order either in person or via phone.

La Fiamma's famous children's dining room will be staffed and available on a first-come, first served basis.

https://lafiammaitalian.com/

 

  Lion King Kids Musical Tickets on Sale Now!

 

Reserve your Lion King Tickets NOW! Doors open BOTH NIGHTS at 6:15. Click the links below to reserve your FREE tickets to the performances!

 

HERE is the link to reserve your seats for Thursday April 27th at 6:30

HERE is the link to reserve your seats for Friday April 28th at 6:30

 

 

.

  2023 Edison Pyramid ART SHOW

Art work from our own Franconia students and those from Bush Hill, Cameron, Clermont, Mount Eagle, and Rose Hill Elementary Schools, as well as Mark Twain Middle, and Edison High School will be on display at the 2023 Edison Pyramid Art Show.

April 25th

5:30pm-6:30pm 

At Clermont Elementary School

5720 Clermont Drive

Alexandria, VA 22310

 

 

The Franconia Penguin Talent Show

Franconia Elementary is proud to present the 2023 Penguin Talent Show.  If you are interested in auditioning for a spot in the show, you and a parent will need to read and agree to the guidelines on this form.  Then fill out the permission slip, and return the form to Mrs. Yortzidis by April 26th.

Filling out a permission slip does not mean that your child will be in the talent show. That will be determined during auditions.

School Auditions will be held on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 during the school day.  Your child will audition during their specials time on that day. We are looking for the BEST talent.  ARE YOU THE NEXT TOP TALENT?

 

  PE News Field Day Shirts!

While we don’t yet have a specific date for field day, the PE team is well into planning the event! We have decided on a ‘Super Franconia World’ / video game theme! Below you can find the link to order shirts for field day! The order will not close until April 21st and the shirts will arrive around the end of April/beginning of May. Plan for field day in May or June and we’re excited to get out more details once we have them! https://www.customink.com/g/nsn0-00cq-kfst

-Miss Borsos and Mr. Harris

.

Project Read Event Saturday, April 22nd, from 4:30pm - 5:30pm

 

Project Read is an organization dedicated to encouraging children in K-6 grade to enjoy reading and advance their skills. Project Read will be hosting an event at the Kingstowne Library (6500 Landsdowne Centre Dr, Alexandria, VA 22315) on Saturday, April 22nd, from 4:30pm - 5:30pm. This event will include high school volunteers reading with children, interactive games and ice breakers for children to get to know each other better, and creating reading groups among grade levels to motivate children to read with new friends! Most importantly, volunteers will be working with kids to help them find books that they will enjoy and be able to take home! 

Fill out this form to sign your child up: https://forms.gle/HW7JXioQnSYhKFHr5

 

  How Do YOU Practice Wellness? Sign up to share on the morning news

 

Penguins, we want to know how you practice wellness in your life. Use the link below to sign up for a Wednesday to share a video showing your wellness journey with your fellow Franconia Penguins. Videos should be 3 minutes or less. Be sure to include yourself talking about why the wellness practice is important to you, and how it helps you. (if you need to include 2 shorter videos, one showing the activity and one of the student discussing the activity, that is fine and I can combine them for you. They should be no more than 3 minutes when combined.) 

 

You can show yourself practicing wellness by:

- a sport you play (for example soccer, gymnastics, martial arts training, etc)

- practicing a skill you're learning (for example dance, playing an instrument, or any other artistic/creative expessions)

- showing activities your family enjoys together (for example, taking walks together, cooking meals together, family game time, etc)

- showing activities you enjoy doing when enjoying alone time (for example reading or drawing)

 

Use this link to sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AA4A928A6FB6-wellness

 

Ms. Octaviano will contact you the week before your video will air on the morning news with additional information about how to submit your video.

 

If you have any questions, please email Ms. Octaviano at: [email protected]

 

Counselor's Corner Mindfulness at Franconia Update

 

At Franconia, we have the unique opportunity of creating a mindfulness lab using our  wellness ESSER funds. Mindfulness is all about being in the present moment. In the lab, we have created opportunities for students to be in the present moment by creating mindfulness centers. Students can explore different mindfulness centers such as reading, breathing, art, affirmations, games and mindful movement. This space has provided an opportunity for student wellness by causing students to relax mentally, emotionally and physically. Also in the lab, as special treat to our students, we have a comfort dog named Charlie who visits with classes in the lab!

Take a look at one of our spotlighted classes in the mindfulness lab:

Ms. Johnson’s Class! Students had fun participating in mindfulness centers.

https://youtu.be/MN-vFyXWuBM

 

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~ 

Guidance Topics for April

 

K-2- How to be a responsible citizen by showing kindness.

3rd grade- We will learn different test taking tips and how to stay mindful throughout testing.

 

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~ 

Character Trait for the Month

 

April's character trait is Responsibility-doing what is expected and taking ownership of your actions/behavior.

 

March's Character Trait was Patience-to wait calmly without complaining. Check out this video with our student highlights for patience:

https://flip.com/s/6ESMsjxEyWH_

 

  Brownie Troop 53110 Plant a Garden

.

Last week, our own Brownie Troop 53110 took on a community beautification project and planted a garden around our Franconia sign.  Next time you are passing by school, take a look and enjoy the results of their hard work and green thumbs!

.

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~ 

Special Visit from the Superintendent

On March 27th, we had a special visit from Superintendent Michelle Reid.  Superintendent Reid came to have a conversation with Peyton Lawson,  a Fifth Grade student in Ms. Dickerson's class.  Peyton was inspired to write to the Superintendent after she participated in a student survey here at Franconia.  The Superintendent was so impressed by Peyton's letter she asked to meet her in person!

 

If you missed the write up about Peyton and the visit in the April 10th edition of the Superintendent's Weekly Reflections, you can read it below.

My heart beats strongest in our schools and I was so inspired to start my week prior to the break being interviewed by Peyton, a fifth grader at Franconia Elementary School. Peyton asked some hard-hitting questions about being a leader, why I came to Fairfax County, and what objectives our team is working on to help students. We also shared hobbies and found that we had quite a bit in common, including a love of math and spending time with our families. It is truly magical to be in schools learning more about our students and their experiences in our community. Peyton said to improve Franconia, she would expand the library and get more books for students to read. That means I would add a third thing we have in common, Peyton! I love to read, too! It was such a pleasure to meet you! 

 

 Edison Tennis Camp  Learn How to Play Tennis!

 

Lessons are open to students in Grades 3 - 12

June 20th - 24th

9am- Noon

at the Edison HS tennis courts, 5801 Franconia Rd, Alexandria, VA 22310

 

**Beginner Friendly**

 

Rates
Weekly Rate: $150 for beginners | $200 for advanced
Daily Rate: $40/day for beginners | $50/day for advanced

 

Hurry Space is Limited!
Contact Coach W at [email protected] to sign up!

Sponsored by the Edison Booster Club

 

  Important Information Regarding the Virginia Medicaid Return to Normal Enrollment Plan

 

The federal government declared a public health emergency when the COVID-19 pandemic began. Since then, state agencies, including Virginia Medicaid have continued health care coverage for all medical assistance programs, even for people who are no longer eligible or who’s eligibility status has changed. This is what’s being referred to as the continuous coverage requirement.

Effective March 31, 2023, the continuous coverage requirement will end.  This means on April 1, 2023, all states may return to normal enrollment processes, including redeterminations and processing reductions/closures of coverage. 

While Virginia is initiating its first month of redeterminations in March of 2023, reductions/closures of coverage will not begin until April 30, 2023.

The Virginia Medicaid agency is committed to working in partnership with community partners to ensure their members have the information they need to complete their renewal documents/renewal process.

 

Additional information can be found in this video

 

  Help Needed in the Library

Do you have a spare moment in the day to lend Mrs. Vandersande a hand?

The library needs volunteers to help scan in returns and shelve books any time during the school day.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040e4caead2faaf49-library1#/

 

  April Calendar Reminders

 

No School April 21st - Eid al-Fitr 

Eid al-Fitr, 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. Read more at Britannica.com.

FCPS has designated Eid al-Fitr as a religious and cultural observance day designed to allow students the opportunity to miss school for observances not already designated as school holidays. Eid al-Fitr is from sunset April 20 to sunset April 21. Thursday, April 20, is a half O Day, and Friday, April  21, is a holiday.

 

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

 

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

  FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

  Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 4/12/23

GovDelivery1 month 3 weeks ago
  UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Wednesday, 4/12 -  PEP Meeting, FES Library  6pm
  • Thursday, 4/13 - End of Third Quarter - 2-hour Early Release
  • Friday 4/14 - Student Holiday/Teacher Workday - Orthodox Good Friday
  • Monday 4/17-Friday 4/21 - Purple Up Spirit Week
  • Wednesday, 4/19 - Kindergarten Orientation 5:30pm-6:30pm
  • Wednesday, 4/19 - Purple Up Day at Franconia
  • Friday, 4/21 -  Holiday - Eid al Fitr
  • Wednesday, 4/26 - FES PTA Restaurant Night  at La Fiamma
  • Wednesday, 4/26 - Talent Show Permission Slips Due

 

 

 Parents as Educational Partners Join Us for the Last PEP Meeting TONIGHT.

 

Please join us for our LAST Parents as Educational Partners (PEP) meeting of the year on tonight at 6 p.m. in Franconia's Library. We will discuss end-of-the year assessments and summer activities!

 

WHAT:  PEP is a parent-teacher organization for parents of students from Kindergarten to Sixth Grade of any language or cultural background.  

 

WHY:  The mission of PEP is to increase the academic achievement of students by developing and maintaining strong school-home partnerships tied to improved student achievement. 

 

HOW:  During our meetings, we will create a safe, informed space through which we can empower families to seek information to best support their children's educational journeys.

 

WHEN:  Our next session will take place Wednesday, April 12th at 6 p.m.

 

WHERE:  We will meet in the library at Franconia Elementary School.  

  

Questions?  Please email [email protected].

 

 

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.

 

Franconia is proud to be a Purple Star School.  The Purple Star designation is awarded to military-friendly schools that have demonstrated their commitment to meeting the needs of military-connected students and their families. 

 

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

 

Purple Up Spirit Week!

Join in spirit week for an opportunity for our school to visibly show our support and thank our military children for their strength and sacrifice.

 

Monday, April 17- Hat Day (Hat's off to our Purple Penguin military connected students)

Tuesday, April 18 - Camo day (a salute to all service families)

Wednesday, April 19 - Purple UP day  (wear Purple)

Thursday, April 20 - PJ Day to start the long weekend

Friday, April 21 - NO SCHOOL

 

https://lafiammaitalian.com/

Save the Date! - Restaurant Night  Wednesday, April 26th

 

Support your Franconia PTA and make dinner easy! Dine in or carry out at La Fiamma 6124 Franconia Rd. Alexandria, VA 22310 for lunch or dinner on Wednesday, April 26, and a portion of proceeds will be donated to the PTA for events and activities that support all students.

You MUST indicate that you are dining with Franconia PTA Restaurant Night when placing your order either in person or via phone.

La Fiamma's famous children's dining room will be staffed and available on a first-come, first served basis.

https://lafiammaitalian.com/

 

  Join Mrs. Pina's 6 week Writing Club at Franconia ES (Sponsored by the PTA)

 

Goals:

  • Students will develop creative confidence
  • Students will learn skills related to creative writing techniques and the process
  • Students will feel inspired to continue writing after the program ends
  • Students will have an enriching and FUN experience writing in NEW ways.

Thursdays

3:35-4:45

 

Club Dates

4/27, 5/4, 5/11, 5/18, 5/25, 6/1

 

  • Register by April 21
  • Total cost is $55 (includes supplies)
  • Only 15 Spots Available
  • 1st and 2nd Graders Only

 

Click HERE to Register 

 

Contact Matt at [email protected] for questions

 

 

The Franconia Penguin Talent Show

Franconia Elementary is proud to present the 2023 Penguin Talent Show.  If you are interested in auditioning for a spot in the show, you and a parent will need to read and agree to the guidelines on this form.  Then fill out the permission slip, and return the form to Mrs. Yortzidis by April 26th.

Filling out a permission slip does not mean that your child will be in the talent show. That will be determined during auditions.

School Auditions will be held on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 during the school day.  Your child will audition during their specials time on that day. We are looking for the BEST talent.  ARE YOU THE NEXT TOP TALENT?

 

  PE News Field Day Shirts!

While we don’t yet have a specific date for field day, the PE team is well into planning the event! We have decided on a ‘Super Franconia World’ / video game theme! Below you can find the link to order shirts for field day! The order will not close until April 21st and the shirts will arrive around the end of April/beginning of May. Plan for field day in May or June and we’re excited to get out more details once we have them! https://www.customink.com/g/nsn0-00cq-kfst

-Miss Borsos and Mr. Harris

.

  How Do YOU Practice Wellness? Sign up to share on the morning news

 

Penguins, we want to know how you practice wellness in your life. Use the link below to sign up for a Wednesday to share a video showing your wellness journey with your fellow Franconia Penguins. Videos should be 3 minutes or less. Be sure to include yourself talking about why the wellness practice is important to you, and how it helps you. (if you need to include 2 shorter videos, one showing the activity and one of the student discussing the activity, that is fine and I can combine them for you. They should be no more than 3 minutes when combined.) 

 

You can show yourself practicing wellness by:

- a sport you play (for example soccer, gymnastics, martial arts training, etc)

- practicing a skill you're learning (for example dance, playing an instrument, or any other artistic/creative expessions)

- showing activities your family enjoys together (for example, taking walks together, cooking meals together, family game time, etc)

- showing activities you enjoy doing when enjoying alone time (for example reading or drawing)

 

Use this link to sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AA4A928A6FB6-wellness

 

Ms. Octaviano will contact you the week before your video will air on the morning news with additional information about how to submit your video.

 

If you have any questions, please email Ms. Octaviano at: [email protected]

 

Counselor's Corner Guidance Topics for April

 

K-2- How to be a responsible citizen by showing kindness.

3rd grade- We will learn different test taking tips and how to stay mindful throughout testing.

 

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~ 

Character Trait for the Month

 

April's character trait is Responsibility-doing what is expected and taking ownership of your actions/behavior.

 

March's Character Trait was Patience-to wait calmly without complaining. Check out this video with our student highlights for patience:

https://flip.com/s/6ESMsjxEyWH_

 

  Special Visit from the Superintendent

On March 27th, we had a special visit from Superintendent Michelle Reid.  Superintendent Reid came to have a conversation with Peyton Lawson,  a Fifth Grade student in Ms. Dickerson's class.  Peyton was inspired to write to the Superintendent after she participated in a student survey here at Franconia.  The Superintendent was so impressed by Peyton's letter she asked to meet her in person!

 

If you missed the write up about Peyton and the visit in the April 10th edition of the Superintendent's Weekly Reflections, you can read it below.

My heart beats strongest in our schools and I was so inspired to start my week prior to the break being interviewed by Peyton, a fifth grader at Franconia Elementary School. Peyton asked some hard-hitting questions about being a leader, why I came to Fairfax County, and what objectives our team is working on to help students. We also shared hobbies and found that we had quite a bit in common, including a love of math and spending time with our families. It is truly magical to be in schools learning more about our students and their experiences in our community. Peyton said to improve Franconia, she would expand the library and get more books for students to read. That means I would add a third thing we have in common, Peyton! I love to read, too! It was such a pleasure to meet you! 

 

   A Note From Our K Team

Do you have a child who will be 5 years of age by September 30, 2023, and do you plan on sending them to kindergarten at Franconia for the 2023-2024 school year?

We are in the process of preparing for our kindergarten registration and orientation.  If your child is ready for kindergarten, call the school at 703-822-2200 so we may add you to our list of rising kindergarten students.

Please consider joining us at the school with your future kindergartener for our Kindergarten Orientation on Wednesday, April 19, from 5:30-6:30pm.  During this presentation, we will provide information about the kindergarten program at Franconia Elementary, while the future kindergarteners get to explore the classroom, participate in fun kindergarten activities, and take a ride on a school bus around the neighborhood. 

❤ Kindergarten Team

  Important Information Regarding the Virginia Medicaid Return to Normal Enrollment Plan

 

The federal government declared a public health emergency when the COVID-19 pandemic began. Since then, state agencies, including Virginia Medicaid have continued health care coverage for all medical assistance programs, even for people who are no longer eligible or who’s eligibility status has changed. This is what’s being referred to as the continuous coverage requirement.

Effective March 31, 2023, the continuous coverage requirement will end.  This means on April 1, 2023, all states may return to normal enrollment processes, including redeterminations and processing reductions/closures of coverage. 

While Virginia is initiating its first month of redeterminations in March of 2023, reductions/closures of coverage will not begin until April 30, 2023.

The Virginia Medicaid agency is committed to working in partnership with community partners to ensure their members have the information they need to complete their renewal documents/renewal process.

 

Additional information can be found in this video

 

  Help Needed in the Library

Do you have a spare moment in the day to lend Mrs. Vandersande a hand?

The library needs volunteers to help scan in returns and shelve books any time during the school day.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040e4caead2faaf49-library1#/

 

  April Calendar Reminders

 

April 13 - Quarter End, Early Release

Reminder, Thursday, April 13, is the quarter end and students will be released two hours early.

 

April 14th - No School Teacher Workday

There will be no classes for students on Friday, April 14, a student holiday and teacher work day. 

 

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

 

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

  FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

  Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 4/05/23

GovDelivery2 months ago
  UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Wednesday, 4/12 -  PEP Meeting, FES Library  6pm
  • Thursday, 4/13 - End of Third Quarter - 2-hour Early Release
  • Friday 4/14 - Student Holiday - Orthodox Good Friday
  • Monday 4/17-Friday 4/21 - Purple Up Spirit Week
  • Wednesday, 4/19 - Kindergarten Orientation 5:30pm-6:30pm
  • Friday, 4/21 -  Holiday - Eid al Fitr

 

 

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.

 

Franconia is proud to be a Purple Star School.  The Purple Star designation is awarded to military-friendly schools that have demonstrated their commitment to meeting the needs of military-connected students and their families. 

 

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

 

Purple Up Spirit Week!

Join in spirit week for an opportunity for our school to visibly show our support and thank our military children for their strength and sacrifice.

 

Monday, April 17- Hat Day (Hat's off to our Purple Penguin military connected students)

Tuesday, April 18 - Camo day (a salute to all service families)

Wednesday, April 19 - Purple UP day  (wear Purple)

Thursday, April 20 - PJ Day to start the long weekend

Friday, April 21 - NO SCHOOL

 

   Parents as Educational Partners Join Us for the Last PEP Meeting April 12th.

 

Please join us for our LAST Parents as Educational Partners (PEP) meeting of the year on Wednesday, April 12th at 6 p.m. in Franconia's Library. We will discuss end-of-the year assessments and summer activities!

 

WHAT:  PEP is a parent-teacher organization for parents of students from Kindergarten to Sixth Grade of any language or cultural background.  

 

WHY:  The mission of PEP is to increase the academic achievement of students by developing and maintaining strong school-home partnerships tied to improved student achievement. 

 

HOW:  During our meetings, we will create a safe, informed space through which we can empower families to seek information to best support their children's educational journeys.

 

WHEN:  Our next session will take place Wednesday, April 12th    at 6 p.m.

 

WHERE:  We will meet in the library at Franconia Elementary School.  

  

Questions?  Please email [email protected].

 

  Two Franconia Students Earn All County Choral Festival Distinction

Ms. Lucius would like to recognize Sophia Lewis and Benjamin Wilson for representing Franconia at the 2023 All County Choral Festival! They worked so hard since November learning ten challenging pieces of music including Portuguese, French and Swahili! Saturday’s performance was nothing short of inspirational and heart-warming as it featured over 600 sixth graders from schools in Fairfax County! Way to represent our school Sophia and Benjamin! We are so proud of you!!

 

  PE News Field Day Shirts!

While we don’t yet have a specific date for field day, the PE team is well into planning the event! We have decided on a ‘Super Franconia World’ / video game theme! Below you can find the link to order shirts for field day! The order will not close until April 21st and the shirts will arrive around the end of April/beginning of May. Plan for field day in May or June and we’re excited to get out more details once we have them! https://www.customink.com/g/nsn0-00cq-kfst

-Miss Borsos and Mr. Harris

.

  How Do YOU Practice Wellness? Sign up to share on the morning news

 

Penguins, we want to know how you practice wellness in your life. Use the link below to sign up for a Wednesday to share a video showing your wellness journey with your fellow Franconia Penguins. Videos should be 3 minutes or less. Be sure to include yourself talking about why the wellness practice is important to you, and how it helps you. (if you need to include 2 shorter videos, one showing the activity and one of the student discussing the activity, that is fine and I can combine them for you. They should be no more than 3 minutes when combined.) 

 

You can show yourself practicing wellness by:

- a sport you play (for example soccer, gymnastics, martial arts training, etc)

- practicing a skill you're learning (for example dance, playing an instrument, or any other artistic/creative expessions)

- showing activities your family enjoys together (for example, taking walks together, cooking meals together, family game time, etc)

- showing activities you enjoy doing when enjoying alone time (for example reading or drawing)

 

Use this link to sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AA4A928A6FB6-wellness

 

Ms. Octaviano will contact you the week before your video will air on the morning news with additional information about how to submit your video.

 

If you have any questions, please email Ms. Octaviano at: [email protected]

 

Counselor's Corner

 

Character Trait for the Month

 

April's character trait is Responsibility-doing what is expected and taking ownership of your actions/behavior.

 

March's Character Trait was Patience-to wait calmly without complaining. Check out this video with our student highlights for patience:

https://flip.com/s/6ESMsjxEyWH_

 

   A Note From Our K Team

Do you have a child who will be 5 years of age by September 30, 2023, and do you plan on sending them to kindergarten at Franconia for the 2023-2024 school year?

We are in the process of preparing for our kindergarten registration and orientation.  If your child is ready for kindergarten, call the school at 703-822-2200 so we may add you to our list of rising kindergarten students.

Please consider joining us at the school with your future kindergartener for our Kindergarten Orientation on Wednesday, April 19, from 5:30-6:30pm.  During this presentation, we will provide information about the kindergarten program at Franconia Elementary, while the future kindergarteners get to explore the classroom, participate in fun kindergarten activities, and take a ride on a school bus around the neighborhood. 

❤ Kindergarten Team

  Hayfield Craft Fair and Auction Save the date!

 

On 15 April 2023, from 9am-3pm, the Hayfield All Night Grad Party will be hosting a Craft Fair at Hayfield Secondary School (7530 Telegraph Road, Alexandria, VA 22315).  There will be over 100 vendors selling goods, an amazing silent auction, Kidcreate studio, facepainting and more! 

Proceeds go to help support the Hayfield Class of 2023 All Night Grad Party event.  

There is no cost to attend the event.  Please come out and support the local vendors and also the Hayfield class of 2023! 

 

  SoCo Summer Strings Camp

Exciting news! SoCo Summer Strings (formally Stallion Summer Strings) is returning this summer! The camp will be hosted at South County Middle School from July 10th-21st from 8:30am-12:30pm, weekdays only. 

Camp is open to all rising 5th-9th grade students with at least one year of experience on the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students will participate in two large ensemble rehearsals, an instrument-specific technique class, and a sectional each day.

         You can find more information and registration for camp at www.schsorchestra.org/soco-summer-strings. Early registration is from March 1st-June 9th so sign up soon!

 

  Help Needed in the Library

Do you have a spare moment in the day to lend Mrs. Vandersande a hand?

The library needs volunteers to help scan in returns and shelve books any time during the school day.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040e4caead2faaf49-library1#/

 

  April Calendar Reminders

 

April 3-7 - Spring Break

As a reminder, April 3-7 is spring break. Schools and school offices will be closed. We wish our students and teachers a happy and restful Spring Break! Students will return to school on Monday, April 10, 2023

 

April 5 - Passover - Passover begins on April 5 at sundown, and ends on April 13.

 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. 

 

April 6 - Theravada New Year

In countries where Theravada Buddhism is the most dominant religion, April is the month of celebration. It marks the end of the lunisolar calendar and the beginning of another, just like January 1 for most people in the world, and is why this holiday is termed the Theravada New Year. The Theravada New Year is celebrated for three days from the first full moon in April. Theravada means “the teachings of the elders.” Celebrations begin with people attending the local temple in the morning for chanting and meditation. In the afternoon they have a water festival in which they meet the Buddha image and pay respect to the elderly by watering their hands together. Building sandcastles is also one of the most popular activities during this day of celebration.

 

April 7 - Good Friday 

Good Friday, the Friday before Easter, is the day on which Christians annually observe the commemoration of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Good Friday is a day of mourning. During special Good Friday services Christians meditate on Jesus's suffering and death on the cross, and what this means for their faith. Read more at Britannica.com

  April 9 - Easter

Learn more about Easter in NatGeo Kids.

 

April 13-14 - Quarter End, Early Release

Reminder, Thursday, April 13, is the quarter end and students will be released two hours early. There will be no classes for students on Friday, April 14, a student holiday and teacher work day. 

 

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

 

  Find Free COVID-19 Testing in Your Community

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched a COVID-19 Testing Locator website, which can help families find no-cost COVID-19 testing sites.  Testing is available at pharmacies and other locations and is provided at no cost to individuals with or without health insurance. Results are typically provided within 24-48 hours. 

 

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

  FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

  Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 3/29/23

GovDelivery2 months 1 week ago
  UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Wednesday 4/29-Friday 3/31 - Music in Our Schools Spirit Week
  • Monday 4/3-Friday 4/7- Spring Break, No School
  • Wednesday, 4/12 -  PEP Meeting, FES Library  6pm
  • Thursday, 4/13 - End of Third Quarter - 2-hour Early Release
  • Friday 4/14 - Student Holiday - Orthodox Good Friday
  • Monday 4/17-Friday 4/21 - Purple Up Spirit Week
  • Wednesday, 4/19 - Kindergarten Orientation 5:30pm-6:30pm
  • Friday, 4/21 -  Holiday - Eid al Fitr

 

  Celebrating Music In Our Schools Month!


Music in Our Schools Month engages music educators, students and
communities from around the country in promoting the efforts of high
quality music education programs in our schools. Franconia Elementary
believes in the power of music and its positive effects on our children. By
giving our students an outlet for creativity, we give them an opportunity
to relate and share memorable experiences with their peers. Those
memories will carry them on their journey to adulthood and beyond.
Music is beneficial in so many ways and we are lucky to be able to expose
our community to all we have to offer!

 

~     ~     ~     ~     ~     ~     ~     ~     ~     ~     ~     ~    ~  

 

We are celebrating Music in Our Schools Month with a special spirit next week: March 27th - March 31st.


Thursday 3/30: Favorite Music Genre Day! Think: Country, Rock, Pop,
Reggae, Jazz, R&B, Techno, and more!
Friday3/31: Music ties us together! Wear a tie to celebrate how music
brings together people of all cultures and and backgrounds


(Please make sure all outfit choices are school appropriate)

 

 

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.

 

Franconia is proud to be a Purple Star School.  The Purple Star designation is awarded to military-friendly schools that have demonstrated their commitment to meeting the needs of military-connected students and their families. 

 

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

 

Purple Up Spirit Week!

Join in spirit week for an opportunity for our school to visibly show our support and thank our military children for their strength and sacrifice.

 

Monday, April 17- Hat Day (Hat's off to our Purple Penguin military connected students)

Tuesday, April 18 - Camo day (a salute to all service families)

Wednesday, April 19 - Purple UP day  (wear Purple)

Thursday, April 20 - PJ Day to start the long weekend

Friday, April 21 - NO SCHOOL

 

   Parents as Educational Partners Join Us for the Last PEP Meeting April 12th.

 

Please join us for our LAST Parents as Educational Partners (PEP) meeting of the year on Wednesday, April 12th at 6 p.m. in Franconia's Library. We will discuss end-of-the year assessments and summer activities!

 

WHAT:  PEP is a parent-teacher organization for parents of students from Kindergarten to Sixth Grade of any language or cultural background.  

 

WHY:  The mission of PEP is to increase the academic achievement of students by developing and maintaining strong school-home partnerships tied to improved student achievement. 

 

HOW:  During our meetings, we will create a safe, informed space through which we can empower families to seek information to best support their children's educational journeys.

 

WHEN:  Our next session will take place Wednesday, April 12th    at 6 p.m.

 

WHERE:  We will meet in the library at Franconia Elementary School.  

  

Questions?  Please email [email protected].

  World Showcase Day Fun

Thank you so much to all of the families who joined us for Franconia's first annual World Showcase event!  We hoped you enjoyed it as much as we did.  We are already planning for next year's event, and we hope you will consider participating when the time comes!  

Check out these videos of World Showcase activities that took place during the school day.  Here are links to view the Lion King performers, the fashion show, and the door/hallway decorations. 

 

.

  Two Franconia Students Earn All County Choral Festival Distinction

Ms. Lucius would like to recognize Sophia Lewis and Benjamin Wilson for representing Franconia at the 2023 All County Choral Festival! They worked so hard since November learning ten challenging pieces of music including Portuguese, French and Swahili! Saturday’s performance was nothing short of inspirational and heart-warming as it featured over 600 sixth graders from schools in Fairfax County! Way to represent our school Sophia and Benjamin! We are so proud of you!!

 

  PE News Field Day Shirts!

While we don’t yet have a specific date for field day, the PE team is well into planning the event! We have decided on a ‘Super Franconia World’ / video game theme! Below you can find the link to order shirts for field day! The order will not close until April 21st and the shirts will arrive around the end of April/beginning of May. Plan for field day in May or June and we’re excited to get out more details once we have them! https://www.customink.com/g/nsn0-00cq-kfst

-Miss Borsos and Mr. Harris

.

  How Do YOU Practice Wellness? Sign up to share on the morning news

 

Penguins, we want to know how you practice wellness in your life. Use the link below to sign up for a Wednesday to share a video showing your wellness journey with your fellow Franconia Penguins. Videos should be 3 minutes or less. Be sure to include yourself talking about why the wellness practice is important to you, and how it helps you. (if you need to include 2 shorter videos, one showing the activity and one of the student discussing the activity, that is fine and I can combine them for you. They should be no more than 3 minutes when combined.) 

 

You can show yourself practicing wellness by:

- a sport you play (for example soccer, gymnastics, martial arts training, etc)

- practicing a skill you're learning (for example dance, playing an instrument, or any other artistic/creative expessions)

- showing activities your family enjoys together (for example, taking walks together, cooking meals together, family game time, etc)

- showing activities you enjoy doing when enjoying alone time (for example reading or drawing)

 

Use this link to sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AA4A928A6FB6-wellness

 

Ms. Octaviano will contact you the week before your video will air on the morning news with additional information about how to submit your video.

 

If you have any questions, please email Ms. Octaviano at: [email protected]

 

Counselor's Corner

 

Character Trait for the Month

 

April's character trait is Responsibility-doing what is expected and taking ownership of your actions/behavior.

 

March's Character Trait was Patience-to wait calmly without complaining. Check out this video with our student highlights for patience:

https://flip.com/s/6ESMsjxEyWH_

 

 

Forget to Order Your Yearbook? Ordering deadline has been extended to Friday

 

Don’t miss out on the chance to get your child a yearbook. 2022-23 Yearbooks are $18.00 and the deadline to order has been extended to March 31st. This is the last opportunity to purchase yearbooks, so make plans to order yours today!

Yearbooks are only sold/purchased online. Start your purchase by going  to: yearbookordercenter.com, typing in 21927 or searching for Franconia Elementary, Alexandria VA, will take you to our ordering site.

 

  Project LIFT at Franconia Elementary School!

Project LIFT is a program for students to have access to 6 new books to read over the summer.  The cost of the program is $34.  Additionally, families will have the option to send in a donation to support other students in the school to also participate.  Forms for Project LIFT are in this week’s Wednesday Folder.  The deadline to send in money to participate is Friday, March 31st.

 

   A Note From Our K Team

Do you have a child who will be 5 years of age by September 30, 2023, and do you plan on sending them to kindergarten at Franconia for the 2023-2024 school year?

We are in the process of preparing for our kindergarten registration and orientation.  If your child is ready for kindergarten, call the school at 703-822-2200 so we may add you to our list of rising kindergarten students.

Please consider joining us at the school with your future kindergartener for our Kindergarten Orientation on Wednesday, April 19, from 5:30-6:30pm.  During this presentation, we will provide information about the kindergarten program at Franconia Elementary, while the future kindergarteners get to explore the classroom, participate in fun kindergarten activities, and take a ride on a school bus around the neighborhood. 

❤ Kindergarten Team

"Ducky Breathing" Storytime Family Yoga At the HIstoric Sydenstricker Schoolhouse

 

Saturday, April 1st 9am to 9:45 am $15 per family* *up to 5 people per family

 

Presented in partnership with Breathe Body & Mind and the Sydenstricker Schoolhouse, and their continuing efforts to make the schoolhouse available to the community for events such as this.

 

 

Sign up via the QR code or at breathebodymind.com or to pay cash at the door, email info @sydenstrickerschoolhouse.org

Advance registration is required

Questions?

703-829-0167 or [email protected]

 

  Hayfield Craft Fair and Auction Save the date!

 

On 15 April 2023, from 9am-3pm, the Hayfield All Night Grad Party will be hosting a Craft Fair at Hayfield Secondary School (7530 Telegraph Road, Alexandria, VA 22315).  There will be over 100 vendors selling goods, an amazing silent auction, Kidcreate studio, facepainting and more! 

Proceeds go to help support the Hayfield Class of 2023 All Night Grad Party event.  

There is no cost to attend the event.  Please come out and support the local vendors and also the Hayfield class of 2023! 

 

  SoCo Summer Strings Camp

Exciting news! SoCo Summer Strings (formally Stallion Summer Strings) is returning this summer! The camp will be hosted at South County Middle School from July 10th-21st from 8:30am-12:30pm, weekdays only. 

Camp is open to all rising 5th-9th grade students with at least one year of experience on the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students will participate in two large ensemble rehearsals, an instrument-specific technique class, and a sectional each day.

         You can find more information and registration for camp at www.schsorchestra.org/soco-summer-strings. Early registration is from March 1st-June 9th so sign up soon!

 

  Help Needed in the Library

Do you have a spare moment in the day to lend Mrs. Vandersande a hand?

The library needs volunteers to help scan in returns and shelve books any time during the school day.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040e4caead2faaf49-library1#/

 

  Upcoming Calendar Reminders

 

March 22 - April 21 - Ramadan

This year, the first day of Ramadan is March 22. Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year, a time for spiritual discipline for Muslims, who believe it was during this month that God revealed the first verses of the Quran to Mohammed. Read more about Ramadan in National Geographic Kids.

April 3-7 - Spring Break

As a reminder, April 3-7 is spring break. Schools and school offices will be closed. We wish our students and teachers a happy and restful Spring Break! Students will return to school on Monday, April 10, 2023.

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

 

  Find Free COVID-19 Testing in Your Community

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched a COVID-19 Testing Locator website, which can help families find no-cost COVID-19 testing sites.  Testing is available at pharmacies and other locations and is provided at no cost to individuals with or without health insurance. Results are typically provided within 24-48 hours. 

 

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

  FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

  Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 3/22/23

GovDelivery2 months 2 weeks ago
  UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Friday, 3/24 - Deadline to order Yearbooks
  • Monday, 27-Friday, 3/31 - Music in Our Schools Spirit Week
  • Monday, 4/3-Friday 4/7- Spring Break, No School
  • Thursday, 4/13 - End of Third Quarter - 2-hour Early Release
  • Friday 4/14 - Student Holiday - Orthodox Good Friday
  • Wednesday, 4/19 - Kindergarten Orientation 5:30pm-6:30pm
  • Friday, 4/21 -  Holiday - Eid al Fitr

 

  Celebrating Music In Our Schools Month!


Music in Our Schools Month engages music educators, students and
communities from around the country in promoting the efforts of high
quality music education programs in our schools. Franconia Elementary
believes in the power of music and its positive effects on our children. By
giving our students an outlet for creativity, we give them an opportunity
to relate and share memorable experiences with their peers. Those
memories will carry them on their journey to adulthood and beyond.
Music is beneficial in so many ways and we are lucky to be able to expose
our community to all we have to offer!

 

~     ~     ~     ~     ~     ~     ~     ~     ~     ~     ~     ~    ~  

 

We will be celebrating Music in Our Schools Month with a special spirit next week: March 27th - March 31st.

 

Monday 3/27: Monday Blues - Wear Blue!
Tuesday 3/28: Broadway Tuesday - Think Hamilton, The Lion King,
Annie and more!
Wednesday 3/29: Dress as a Piano Keyboard - Wear black and white!
Thursday 3/30: Favorite Music Genre Day! Think: Country, Rock, Pop,
Reggae, Jazz, R&B, Techno, and more!
Friday3/31: Music ties us together! Wear a tie to celebrate how music
brings together people of all cultures and and backgrounds


(Please make sure all outfit choices are school appropriate)

 

  Last Chance to Order Yearbooks! Deadline to order is FRIDAY

 

Don’t miss out on the chance to get your child a yearbook. 2022-23 Yearbooks are $18.00 and the deadline to order is March 24th. No yearbook orders will be taken after that date. So, make plans to order yours today!

Yearbooks are only sold/purchased online. Start your purchase by going  to: yearbookordercenter.com, typing in 21927 or searching for Franconia Elementary, Alexandria VA, will take you to our ordering site.

 

  World Showcase Day Fun

Thank you so much to all of the families who joined us for Franconia's first annual World Showcase event!  We hoped you enjoyed it as much as we did.  We are already planning for next year's event, and we hope you will consider participating when the time comes!  

Check out these videos of World Showcase activities that took place during the school day.  Here are links to view the Lion King performers, the fashion show, and the door/hallway decorations. 

 

.

  Honor Band Accolades for Four FES Students and Mr. Jakes

 

Tuesday night  four Franconia students performed on the stage of John Lewis High School as members of the 2023 Greater Springfield-Franconia Area Honor Band!  These students had been preparing this concert with other schools in the Edison pyramid since early January.  We are extremely proud of their excellent musical performance and representation of Franconia!

 

.

  Spring Spirit Wear Last day to order is March 27th!

 

All shirts are available in YOUTH and ADULT sizes.

FREE bulk shipping to the school or choose to pay for shipping to home.

If you choose free bulk shipping please include your student's NAME and TEACHER in the "Supporter Information" section.

Example: Allie Adams (Ethan Adams- Allen)

 

CLICK HERE TO ORDER

 

.

  PE News Field Day Shirts!

While we don’t yet have a specific date for field day, the PE team is well into planning the event! We have decided on a ‘Super Franconia World’ / video game theme! Below you can find the link to order shirts for field day! The order will not close until April 21st and the shirts will arrive around the end of April/beginning of May. Plan for field day in May or June and we’re excited to get out more details once we have them! https://www.customink.com/g/nsn0-00cq-kfst

-Miss Borsos and Mr. Harris

.

 

NEW DATES! Musical Circuits Club! Franconia ES (sponsored by the PTA) This club will now meet Tuesdays, May 2-May 30, as below.

 

Mr Nawrot will be offering a 5-week club on Tuesdays, 3:35-4:35.

CLASS DATES: 5/2, 5/9, 5/16, 5/23, 5/30

The club will take place at school, is open to students Grades 4-6, at a total cost of $60/student.

 

REGISTER HERE by March 27th:

https://fes-pta.memberhub.com/store/items/833498

 

Contact Matt at [email protected] with questions.

 

Students grades 4 through 6 will explore the history and science behind electronic music through the creation of their own instrument. Each member will construct a breadboard theremin, the original electric instrument, utilizing Microkits.  Additionally, students will explore conductivity with a synthesizer and even try to jam out with an electric guitar.  Best of all, the inventor of Microkits, Mr David Levi, will be our guest one of the days to assist with our build.  Parents are encouraged to read the Microkit theremin instruction manual with their child prior to signing up to see if they are comfortable with the build.  Please note that students will need to bring in found conductive materials and that the club fees reflect the cost of purchasing the Microkits.

 

  How Do YOU Practice Wellness? Sign up to share on the morning news

 

Penguins, we want to know how you practice wellness in your life. Use the link below to sign up for a Wednesday to share a video showing your wellness journey with your fellow Franconia Penguins. Videos should be 3 minutes or less. Be sure to include yourself talking about why the wellness practice is important to you, and how it helps you. (if you need to include 2 shorter videos, one showing the activity and one of the student discussing the activity, that is fine and I can combine them for you. They should be no more than 3 minutes when combined.) 

 

You can show yourself practicing wellness by:

- a sport you play (for example soccer, gymnastics, martial arts training, etc)

- practicing a skill you're learning (for example dance, playing an instrument, or any other artistic/creative expessions)

- showing activities your family enjoys together (for example, taking walks together, cooking meals together, family game time, etc)

- showing activities you enjoy doing when enjoying alone time (for example reading or drawing)

 

Use this link to sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AA4A928A6FB6-wellness

 

Ms. Octaviano will contact you the week before your video will air on the morning news with additional information about how to submit your video.

 

If you have any questions, please email Ms. Octaviano at: [email protected]

 

  Project LIFT at Franconia Elementary School!

Project LIFT is a program for students to have access to 6 new books to read over the summer.  The cost of the program is $34.  Additionally, families will have the option to send in a donation to support other students in the school to also participate.  Forms for Project LIFT are in this week’s Wednesday Folder.  The deadline to send in money to participate is Friday, March 31st.

 

  Mindfulness Lab Update

At Franconia, we have the unique opportunity of creating a mindfulness lab using our wellness ESSER funds.

Mindfulness is all about being in the present moment. In the lab, we have created opportunities for students to be in the present moment by developing mindfulness centers. Students can explore different mindfulness centers such as reading, breathing, art, affirmations, games and mindful movement.

This space has provided an opportunity for student wellness by causing students to relax mentally, emotionally and physically. Take a look at one of our spotlighted classes in the mindfulness lab: Ms.Octaviano! She practices yoga with her students weekly in the mindfulness lab.   https://youtu.be/87KKIXII0Sk

 

  Penguin Performers News

We have our LIGHTS and our MICS! Thank you to all who donated during our drive!!! We can’t wait for you to see these in action during our musical this spring!

Speaking of the musical…

Mark your calendars for The Lion King Kids musical April 27th and 28th at 6:30 pm.

 

  Counselor's Corner March guidance topics

 

Resolving Conflicts with Peers ( Grades K -2- By Using I-Messages) ( Grade 3- By Using STEP)

4th-5th grade: Students will review social emotional strategies taught in guidance throughout the year

6th grade- What is Sexual Harassment Part 1 and 2- Parent opt out letters were sent home in order for students to participate

 

 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Character Trait for the Month

 

March's Character Trait:

Patience- to wait calmly without complaining.

February's Character Trait was empathy- A feeling or understanding of what someone else is feeling.  Check out this video with our student highlights for empathy: https://youtu.be/ogUzIeQyb6s

 

   A Note From Our K Team

Do you have a child who will be 5 years of age by September 30, 2023, and do you plan on sending them to kindergarten at Franconia for the 2023-2024 school year?

We are in the process of preparing for our kindergarten registration and orientation.  If your child is ready for kindergarten, call the school at 703-822-2200 so we may add you to our list of rising kindergarten students.

Please consider joining us at the school with your future kindergartener for our Kindergarten Orientation on Wednesday, April 19, from 5:30-6:30pm.  During this presentation, we will provide information about the kindergarten program at Franconia Elementary, while the future kindergarteners get to explore the classroom, participate in fun kindergarten activities, and take a ride on a school bus around the neighborhood. 

❤ Kindergarten Team

  SoCo Summer Strings Camp

Exciting news! SoCo Summer Strings (formally Stallion Summer Strings) is returning this summer! The camp will be hosted at South County Middle School from July 10th-21st from 8:30am-12:30pm, weekdays only. 

Camp is open to all rising 5th-9th grade students with at least one year of experience on the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students will participate in two large ensemble rehearsals, an instrument-specific technique class, and a sectional each day.

         You can find more information and registration for camp at www.schsorchestra.org/soco-summer-strings. Early registration is from March 1st-June 9th so sign up soon!

 

  Hayfield Craft Fair and Auction Save the date!

 

On 15 April 2023, from 9am-3pm, the Hayfield All Night Grad Party will be hosting a Craft Fair at Hayfield Secondary School (7530 Telegraph Road, Alexandria, VA 22315).  There will be over 100 vendors selling goods, an amazing silent auction, Kidcreate studio, facepainting and more! 

Proceeds go to help support the Hayfield Class of 2023 All Night Grad Party event.  

There is no cost to attend the event.  Please come out and support the local vendors and also the Hayfield class of 2023! 

 

  Help Needed in the Library

Do you have a spare moment in the day to lend Mrs. Vandersande a hand?

The library needs volunteers to help scan in returns and shelve books any time during the school day.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040e4caead2faaf49-library1#/

 

  Upcoming Calendar Reminders

 

March 22 - April 21 - Ramadan

This year, the first day of Ramadan is March 22. Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year, a time for spiritual discipline for Muslims, who believe it was during this month that God revealed the first verses of the Quran to Mohammed. Read more about Ramadan in National Geographic Kids.

April 3-7 - Spring Break

As a reminder, April 3-7 is spring break. Schools and school offices will be closed. We wish our students and teachers a happy and restful Spring Break! Students will return to school on Monday, April 10, 2023.

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

 

  Find Free COVID-19 Testing in Your Community

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched a COVID-19 Testing Locator website, which can help families find no-cost COVID-19 testing sites.  Testing is available at pharmacies and other locations and is provided at no cost to individuals with or without health insurance. Results are typically provided within 24-48 hours. 

 

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

  FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

  Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 3/15/23

GovDelivery2 months 3 weeks ago
  UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Wednesday, 3/15- FES PTA General Membership Meeting *VIRTUAL*
  • Thursday, 3/16 - FES World Showcase Day Festival 6:00pm-8:00pm
  • Friday, 3/24 - Deadline to order Yearbook
  • Monday, 4/3-Friday 4/7- Spring Break, No School
  • Thursday, 4/13 - End of Third Quarter - 2-hour Early Release
  • Friday 4/14 - Student Holiday - Orthodox Good Friday
  • Wednesday, 4/19 - Kindergarten Orientation 5:30pm-6:30pm
  • Friday, 4/21 -  Holiday - Eid al Fitr

 

  PTA General Membership Meeting TONIGHT  7:00pm

 

 UPDATE: **Meeting will now be virtual**  

Join us via Zoom

https://zoom.us/j/99171233656

 

We need YOUR feedback to plan the rest of the school year and prepare for 2023-2024.

Now is the time to have your voice heard. The future of the Franconia PTA is in your hands, and together we can make a difference.

Have you enjoyed all that the PTA has offered our Penguin community this year? Please consider joining the 2023-2024 PTA Board to ensure Franconia Elementary PTA can keep having a positive impact. Questions and nominations are welcome at the meeting!

 

  Just Two More Days to Participate....

Show some spirit  and have some fun celebrating the last two days of the week.

Thursday, 3/16

Wear heritage clothing/tee shirt representing a country of your choice.

Friday, 3/17

Pajama Day/Green or Yellow/Spirit Wear

 

 We can't wait to see your spirit  Penguins!

 

  World Showcase Day is Tomorrow

World Showcase Day (formerly International Day) is TOMORROW evening, March 16th!

Please consider dropping by the Franconia E.S. gym between 6 to 8 p.m. to play games, sample food, and see displays celebrating the diverse cultures and heritages represented within our school community.  All are welcome! 

*It is not too late to participate if you would like to include a display celebrating your heritage!  Please email Ms. LeungSmith at [email protected] for more information. 

 

  Honor Band Accolades for Four FES Students and Mr. Jakes

 

Tuesday night  four Franconia students performed on the stage of John Lewis High School as members of the 2023 Greater Springfield-Franconia Area Honor Band!  These students had been preparing this concert with other schools in the Edison pyramid since early January.  We are extremely proud of their excellent musical performance and representation of Franconia!

 

.

  Spring Spirit Wear On Sale for TWO WEEKS ONLY!

 

All shirts are available in YOUTH and ADULT sizes.

FREE bulk shipping to the school or choose to pay for shipping to home.

If you choose free bulk shipping please include your student's NAME and TEACHER in the "Supporter Information" section.

Example: Allie Adams (Ethan Adams- Allen)

 

CLICK HERE TO ORDER

 

.

  PE News Field Day Shirts!

While we don’t yet have a specific date for field day, the PE team is well into planning the event! We have decided on a ‘Super Franconia World’ / video game theme! Below you can find the link to order shirts for field day! The order will not close until April 21st and the shirts will arrive around the end of April/beginning of May. Plan for field day in May or June and we’re excited to get out more details once we have them! https://www.customink.com/g/nsn0-00cq-kfst

-Miss Borsos and Mr. Harris

.

 

NEW DATES! Musical Circuits Club! Franconia ES (sponsored by the PTA) This club will now meet Tuesdays, May 2-May 30, as below.

 

Mr Nawrot will be offering a 5-week club on Tuesdays, 3:35-4:35.

CLASS DATES: 5/2, 5/9, 5/16, 5/23, 5/30

The club will take place at school, is open to students Grades 4-6, at a total cost of $60/student.

 

REGISTER HERE by March 27th:

https://fes-pta.memberhub.com/store/items/833498

 

Contact Matt at [email protected] with questions.

 

Students grades 4 through 6 will explore the history and science behind electronic music through the creation of their own instrument. Each member will construct a breadboard theremin, the original electric instrument, utilizing Microkits.  Additionally, students will explore conductivity with a synthesizer and even try to jam out with an electric guitar.  Best of all, the inventor of Microkits, Mr David Levi, will be our guest one of the days to assist with our build.  Parents are encouraged to read the Microkit theremin instruction manual with their child prior to signing up to see if they are comfortable with the build.  Please note that students will need to bring in found conductive materials and that the club fees reflect the cost of purchasing the Microkits.

 

  Mindfulness Lab Update

At Franconia, we have the unique opportunity of creating a mindfulness lab using our wellness ESSER funds.

Mindfulness is all about being in the present moment. In the lab, we have created opportunities for students to be in the present moment by developing mindfulness centers. Students can explore different mindfulness centers such as reading, breathing, art, affirmations, games and mindful movement.

This space has provided an opportunity for student wellness by causing students to relax mentally, emotionally and physically. Take a look at one of our spotlighted classes in the mindfulness lab: Ms.Octaviano! She practices yoga with her students weekly in the mindfulness lab.   https://youtu.be/87KKIXII0Sk

 

  Penguin Performers News

We have our LIGHTS and our MICS! Thank you to all who donated during our drive!!! We can’t wait for you to see these in action during our musical this spring!

Speaking of the musical…

Mark your calendars for The Lion King Kids musical April 27th and 28th at 6:30 pm.

 

  Counselor's Corner March guidance topics

 

Resolving Conflicts with Peers ( Grades K -2- By Using I-Messages) ( Grade 3- By Using STEP)

4th-5th grade: Students will review social emotional strategies taught in guidance throughout the year

6th grade- What is Sexual Harassment Part 1 and 2- Parent opt out letters were sent home in order for students to participate

 

 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Character Trait for the Month

 

March's Character Trait:

Patience- to wait calmly without complaining.

February's Character Trait was empathy- A feeling or understanding of what someone else is feeling.  Check out this video with our student highlights for empathy: https://youtu.be/ogUzIeQyb6s

 

  Yearbooks are Now on Sale

Don’t miss out on the chance to get your child a yearbook. 2022-23 Yearbooks are $18.00 and the deadline to order is March 24th. No yearbook orders will be taken after that date. So, make plans to order yours today!

Yearbooks are only sold/purchased online. Start your purchase by going  to: yearbookordercenter.com, typing in 21927 or searching for Franconia Elementary, Alexandria VA, will take you to our ordering site.

 

.

Lost and Found

Our lost and found is overflowing!  World Showcase Day is a wonderful time to take a moment to stop by and take a look through the items to see if any belong to your family.

 

.

  Commodores Navy Band Assembly  Thursday, March 30th

 

The Commodores, a jazz ensemble from the U.S. Navy Band, will be performing at Franconia.  We are excited to welcome this talented and entertaining group of musicians to our school!

 A student only assembly will be held on March 30th for the students to enjoy the band's music.

To read more about The Commodores, please go to:

https://www.navyband.navy.mil/ensembles/commodores

 

  SoCo Summer Strings Camp

Exciting news! SoCo Summer Strings (formally Stallion Summer Strings) is returning this summer! The camp will be hosted at South County Middle School from July 10th-21st from 8:30am-12:30pm, weekdays only. 

Camp is open to all rising 5th-9th grade students with at least one year of experience on the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students will participate in two large ensemble rehearsals, an instrument-specific technique class, and a sectional each day.

         You can find more information and registration for camp at www.schsorchestra.org/soco-summer-strings. Early registration is from March 1st-June 9th so sign up soon!

 

   A Note From Our K Team

Do you have a child who will be 5 years of age by September 30, 2023, and do you plan on sending them to kindergarten at Franconia for the 2023-2024 school year?

We are in the process of preparing for our kindergarten registration and orientation.  If your child is ready for kindergarten, call the school at 703-822-2200 so we may add you to our list of rising kindergarten students.

Please consider joining us at the school with your future kindergartener for our Kindergarten Orientation on Wednesday, April 19, from 5:30-6:30pm.  During this presentation, we will provide information about the kindergarten program at Franconia Elementary, while the future kindergarteners get to explore the classroom, participate in fun kindergarten activities, and take a ride on a school bus around the neighborhood. 

❤ Kindergarten Team

  Help Needed in the Library

Do you have a spare moment in the day to lend Mrs. Vandersande a hand?

The library needs volunteers to help scan in returns and shelve books any time during the school day.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040e4caead2faaf49-library1#/

 

  March Calendar Reminders

 

March 22- April 21 - Ramadan

This year, the first day of Ramadan is March 22. Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year, a time for spiritual discipline for Muslims, who believe it was during this month that God revealed the first verses of the Quran to Mohammed. Read more about Ramadan in National Geographic Kids.

 

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

 

  Find Free COVID-19 Testing in Your Community

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched a COVID-19 Testing Locator website, which can help families find no-cost COVID-19 testing sites.  Testing is available at pharmacies and other locations and is provided at no cost to individuals with or without health insurance. Results are typically provided within 24-48 hours. 

 

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

  FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

  Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 3/8/23

GovDelivery3 months ago
UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Wednesday, 3/8 - PEP Meeting, TONIGHT 6pm in the FES Library
  • Thursday, 3/16 - FES World Showcase Day Festival 6:00pm-8:00pm
  • Friday, 3/24 - Deadline to order Yearbook
  • Monday, 4/3-Friday 4/7- Spring Break, No School
  • Thursday, 4/13 - End of Third Quarter - 2-hour Early Release
  • Friday 4/14 - Student Holiday - Orthodox Good Friday
  • Wednesday, 4/19 - Kindergarten Orientation 5:30pm-6:30pm
  • Friday, 4/21 -  Holiday - Eid al Fitr

 

 

Parents as Educational Partners (PEP) Meeting TONIGHT

Please join us for our seventh Parents as Educational Partners (PEP) meeting TONIGHT at 6 pm in Franconia's Library. We will learn about upcoming events at Franconia Elementary including our International Festival and SOL Assessments. 

 

WHAT:  PEP is a parent-teacher organization for parents of students from Kindergarten to Sixth Grade of any language or cultural background.  

 

WHY:  The mission of PEP is to increase the academic achievement of students by developing and maintaining strong school-home partnerships tied to improved student achievement. 

 

HOW:  During our meetings, we will create a safe, informed space through which we can empower families to seek information to best support their children's educational journeys.

 

WHEN:  We plan to meet the second Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m.  Our next session will take place Wednesday, March 8th .  

 

WHERE:  We will meet in the library at Franconia Elementary School.  

 

Your PEP teachers are specifically prepared to provide you with accurate information about Franconia Elementary.  Some of the topics that we may cover during our meetings include:

  • School Personnel and the School Day
  • School Procedures
  • Parent-Teacher Conferences
  • Report Cards and Curriculum
  • Special Education and Advanced Academics
  • Study skills/Homework
  • School Health Procedures
  • Other school-specific topics that are of interest and benefit to the group 

 

Questions?  Please email [email protected].

 

SPRING PICTURE DAY  Friday, March 10th

 

Get those smiles ready! Spring picture day is this Friday, March 10th. 

Victor O'Neill Studios will be on site to take the following pictures:

  • student individual (full-length)
  • class group
  • 6th grade panoramic

All orders (with the exception of panoramic pre-order) will be placed AFTER picture day.

You will be able to view and order your child’s photos in their online gallery approximately ten days after picture day.

If you have any questions leading up to picture day, please reach out to Victor O’Neill Studios by emailing [email protected].

 

Franconia’s World Showcase Day (Formerly International Day)

 

When: Thursday, March 16th

Time: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

We would love for our parents and community to be a part of this memorable event.

If you are interested, please return the form to your child’s teacher OR visit this link: https://forms.gle/KXY2QgHobd2nSPCB6

 

 

Musical Circuits Club! Franconia ES (sponsored by the PTA)

Mr Nawrot will be offering a 5-week club on Tuesdays, 3:35-4:35.

CLASS DATES: 4/11, 4/18, 4/25, 5/2, 5/9

The club will take place at school, is open to students Grades 4-6, at a total cost of $60/student.

 Register HERE by March 17th

Contact Matt at [email protected] with questions.

Students grades 4 through 6 will explore the history and science behind electronic music through the creation of their own instrument. Each member will construct a breadboard theremin, the original electric instrument, utilizing Microkits.  Additionally, students will explore conductivity with a synthesizer and even try to jam out with an electric guitar.  Best of all, the inventor of Microkits, Mr David Levi, will be our guest one of the days to assist with our build.  Parents are encouraged to read the Microkit theremin instruction manual with their child prior to signing up to see if they are comfortable with the build.  Please note that students will need to bring in found conductive materials and that the club fees reflect the cost of purchasing the Microkits.   

 

Yearbooks are Now on Sale

Don’t miss out on the chance to get your child a yearbook. 2022-23 Yearbooks are $18.00 and the deadline to order is March 24th. No yearbook orders will be taken after that date. So, make plans to order yours today!

Yearbooks are only sold/purchased online. Start your purchase by going  to: yearbookordercenter.com, typing in 21927 or searching for Franconia Elementary, Alexandria VA, will take you to our ordering site.

 

Counselor's Corner Character Trait for the Month

 

March's Character Trait:

Patience- to wait calmly without complaining.

February's Character Trait was empathy- A feeling or understanding of what someone else is feeling.  Check out this video with our student highlights for empathy: https://youtu.be/ogUzIeQyb6s

 

 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Message to 6th Grade Parents/Guardians:

 

In the month of March, sixth-grade students will receive two lessons on the topic of sexual harassment.  These lessons seek to provide students with the necessary information, resources, and strategies to help prevent occurrences of sexual harassment as well as outline the steps to take if they feel they or their peers are targets of these behaviors.  In addition, the lessons share how schools support targeted students so that they can continue to focus on learning in an environment that feels comfortable and secure.  Parents/guardians may request to view these two lessons prior to deciding whether to opt their child(ren) out of the lessons. Please reach out to the school counselor for instructions on where to preview the lessons.

Parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of the two sixth-grade lessons on the topic of sexual harassment.  Letters and opt-out forms will be given to your child in the upcoming week. It will provide more information on how to opt your sixth-grade child out of the lessons about sexual harassment.  If you do not receive the letter or opt-out form or have any additional questions, please contact Veronica Guillion, School Counselor at 703-822-2200.

 

Cruisers Navy Band Assembly  Thursday, March 30th

 

The Cruisers, an ensemble from the U.S. Navy Band, will be performing at Franconia.  We are excited to once again welcome this talented and entertaining group of musicians back to our school!

 A student only assembly will be held on March 30th for the students to enjoy the band's music.

To read more about The Cruisers, please go to:

https://www.navyband.navy.mil/ensembles/cruisers

 

Register Now for Kindergarten

We look forward to welcoming our newest Penguins to Franconia ES for the 2023-2024 school year. Registration packets are available in the Franconia ES Main Office or you may download the forms using the link below.

The registration requirements are as follows:

For incoming Kindergarten students – please visit https://www.fcps.edu/registration/kindergarten-registration

It is important that you have filled out all of the paperwork, and bring with you the following:

  1. Photo ID
  2. Original Birth Certificate
  3. Proof of Residency (Deed or Lease to your home)
  4. Virginia Physical and Immunization Record (due prior to school starting in August)

When you are ready, and have gathered most of your documentation, please call to make a registration appointment.  All registrations are done by appointment only.

For further information, the Fairfax County Public Schools website is www.fcps.edu and the Franconia Elementary website is https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/

To keep in touch with Franconia ES Community, please consider signing up for News You Choose – our e-newsletter  Subscribe to Franconia's Wednesday Word here

Please contact Patrick Pacak, our Registrar, at  [email protected] or 703-822-2203 with any questions. 

       ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

 A Note From Our K Team

Do you have a child who will be 5 years of age by September 30, 2023, and do you plan on sending them to kindergarten at Franconia for the 2023-2024 school year?

We are in the process of preparing for our kindergarten registration and orientation.  If your child is ready for kindergarten, call the school at 703-822-2200 so we may add you to our list of rising kindergarten students.

Please consider joining us at the school with your future kindergartener for our Kindergarten Orientation on Wednesday, April 19, from 5:30-6:30pm.  During this presentation, we will provide information about the kindergarten program at Franconia Elementary, while the future kindergarteners get to explore the classroom, participate in fun kindergarten activities, and take a ride on a school bus around the neighborhood. 

❤ Kindergarten Team

 

Immunization Requirements for Rising 7th Graders

The Code of Virginia requires all students to be immunized against certain communicable diseases prior to entrance into Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS).

All students entering 7th grade will be required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations prior to the beginning of school: Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap), Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

●     To meet the Meningococcal (MenACWY) requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 10 or older.      

●     As a parent/guardian, you may decide that your child not receive the HPV vaccination. The school does not require documentation if a parent/guardian elects for their student not to receive the HPV vaccination.

ACTION REQUESTED: Please provide one of the following immunization documents to the Student Information Assistant (SIA) or Registrar at your child’s school as soon as possible:

  1. An immunization record showing that the child has received at least one dose of each of the required immunizations listed above.
  2. A note on a healthcare provider’s letterhead stating the date the vaccine(s) was given.
  3. A healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.

4.    A notarized Religious Exemption Form, which is available online at: https://bit.ly/VDOEReligiousExemptionForm

Immunizations are available from your child’s healthcare provider, the Fairfax County Health Department, or other community resources.

Questions?  Please contact our Registrar, Patrick Pacak, at [email protected] or 703-822-2203  

 

Help Needed in the Library

Do you have a spare moment in the day to lend Mrs. Vandersande a hand?

The library needs volunteers to help scan in returns and shelve books any time during the school day.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040e4caead2faaf49-library1#/

 

March Calendar Reminders

 

 March 12 - Daylight Saving Begins (Spring Forward)

Sunday, March 12, 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.

March 22- April 21 - Ramadan

This year, the first day of Ramadan is March 22. Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year, a time for spiritual discipline for Muslims, who believe it was during this month that God revealed the first verses of the Quran to Mohammed. Read more about Ramadan in National Geographic Kids.

 

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

 

Find Free COVID-19 Testing in Your Community

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched a COVID-19 Testing Locator website, which can help families find no-cost COVID-19 testing sites.  Testing is available at pharmacies and other locations and is provided at no cost to individuals with or without health insurance. Results are typically provided within 24-48 hours. 

 

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 3/1/23

GovDelivery3 months 1 week ago
UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Thursday, 3/2 -  2 Hour Early Release from School
  • Friday, 3/3 -  School Planning Day-No School for Students
  • Friday, 3/3 - FES Read- A-Thon Ends
  • Wednesday, 3/6 - PEP Meeting, 6pm in the FES Library
  • Thursday, 3/16 - FES International Day Festival 6:00pm-8:00pm
  • Friday, 3/24 - Deadline to order Yearbooks
  • Wednesday, 4/19 - Kindergarten Orientation 5:30pm-6:30pm

 

 March Calendar Reminders
  • Reminder, students have an early release on Thursday, March 2. There is no school for students on Friday, March 3, for a school planning day.

Thursday, March 2- 1:30 Dismissal

Friday, March 3- Student Holiday

 

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

 

 Read-A-Thon Updates February 1 - March 3, 2023 ONLY 2 DAYS LEFT

Click here to register your Penguin with a Read-a-Thon account, access their reading dashboard and share their fundraising page.

We are SO PROUD of our Penguin Readers

  • 254,484 Minutes Read
  • Mrs. Blum's 4th Grade is LEADING in MINUTES read (34,438 minutes), but Mr. Bensinger's class is right on her heels!
  • Mr. Pina's class is LEADING in DONATIONS ($1,780)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

We Need Your Help

We are so excited about our increasing reading that it's easy to forget Read-A-Thon is also the PTA's main fundraiser for the year! Your donations help us keep our events free and fun, and help fund the school's library and Mindfulness Lab.

Choose just one action item to help.

If every student raises just $30 we will reach our goal!

  1. Share your child's fundraising page on social media (there's an easy link on the student dashboard).
  2. Email or Text your child's fundraising link to grandparents, aunts and uncles (the dashboard makes this easy as well!).
  3. Share THIS LINK with local business who may be interested in donating to the Read-A-Thon and receive advertising options to the whole school.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 

The PTA would like to thank the following business donors:

Independence Landscape

Harmony Animal Hospital

 

.

 

Parents as Educational Partners (PEP) Meeting March 8th at 6pm

Please join us for our seventh Parents as Educational Partners (PEP) meeting-Wednesday, March 8th at 6 p.m. in Franconia's Library. We will learn about upcoming events at Franconia Elementary including our International Festival and SOL Assessments. 

 

WHAT:  PEP is a parent-teacher organization for parents of students from Kindergarten to Sixth Grade of any language or cultural background.  

 

WHY:  The mission of PEP is to increase the academic achievement of students by developing and maintaining strong school-home partnerships tied to improved student achievement. 

 

HOW:  During our meetings, we will create a safe, informed space through which we can empower families to seek information to best support their children's educational journeys.

 

WHEN:  We plan to meet the second Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m.  Our next session will take place Wednesday, March 8th .  

 

WHERE:  We will meet in the library at Franconia Elementary School.  

 

Your PEP teachers are specifically prepared to provide you with accurate information about Franconia Elementary.  Some of the topics that we may cover during our meetings include:

  • School Personnel and the School Day
  • School Procedures
  • Parent-Teacher Conferences
  • Report Cards and Curriculum
  • Special Education and Advanced Academics
  • Study skills/Homework
  • School Health Procedures
  • Other school-specific topics that are of interest and benefit to the group 

 

Questions?  Please email [email protected].

 

Congratulations to our own Ms. Chicarella!

Please Join us in congratulating Ms. Ashley Chicarella on winning Edison Pyramid's Outstanding New Teacher Award!  Ms. Chicarella is a Special Education Teacher, supporting 4th and 5th Grade students, here at Franconia. We wish her luck as she advances to the Region 3 level, and are so proud she is a Penguin!

 

Author Visit March 6th Order and bring your book to be signed

Kevin Sherry is the author and illustrator of picture books and graphic novels. Students who purchase and bring his books to the author visit on March 6 will have the opportunity to have them signed by the author!

Order through any bookseller.

Book purchase is not required for participation in author visit, which was paid for by the PTA.

 

.

Sign up for the next Pokémon Club

Are you in to Pokémon?  Do you want to get together with other Franconia Penguins to play Pokémon games and/or trade Pokémon cards?  If you answered "YES" to these questions, then keep reading!  On Friday, March 10th, from 3:30-4:15, Franconia will host a Pokémon after school club meeting. Students are invited to stay after school to enjoy all things Pokémon with their fellow students and some Franconia teachers. Use the link below to sign up. Students who sign up will be given a permission slip that must be completed by a guardian and turned in by Friday, March 10th.  SIGNING UP HERE DOES NOT GUARANTEE YOU CAN STAY FOR THE CLUB. SIGNING UP HERE HOLDS YOUR SPOT.  ONLY AFTER THE PERMISSION SLIP IS COMPLETED AND RETURNED WILL YOU BE CONFIRMED TO STAY AND ENJOY THE POKEMON FUN! If you have any questions, please contact Renee Octaviano at [email protected].

 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4AA4A928A6FB6-pokmon2

 

 

 

Musical Circuits Club! Franconia ES (sponsored by the PTA)

Mr Nawrot will be offering a 5-week club on Tuesdays, 3:35-4:35.

CLASS DATES: 4/11, 4/18, 4/25, 5/2, 5/9

The club will take place at school, is open to students Grades 4-6, at a total cost of $60/student.

 Register HERE by March 17th

Contact Matt at [email protected] with questions.

Students grades 4 through 6 will explore the history and science behind electronic music through the creation of their own instrument. Each member will construct a breadboard theremin, the original electric instrument, utilizing Microkits.  Additionally, students will explore conductivity with a synthesizer and even try to jam out with an electric guitar.  Best of all, the inventor of Microkits, Mr David Levi, will be our guest one of the days to assist with our build.  Parents are encouraged to read the Microkit theremin instruction manual with their child prior to signing up to see if they are comfortable with the build.  Please note that students will need to bring in found conductive materials and that the club fees reflect the cost of purchasing the Microkits.   

 

Franconia’s World Showcase Day (Formerly International Day)

 

When: Thursday, March 16th

Time: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

We would love for our parents and community to be a part of this memorable event.

If you are interested, please return the form to your child’s teacher OR visit this link: https://forms.gle/KXY2QgHobd2nSPCB6

 

Yearbooks are Now on Sale

Don’t miss out on the chance to get your child a yearbook. 2022-23 Yearbooks are $18.00 and the deadline to order is March 24th. No yearbook orders will be taken after that date. So, make plans to order yours today!

Yearbooks are only sold/purchased online. Start your purchase by going  to: yearbookordercenter.com, typing in 21927 or searching for Franconia Elementary, Alexandria VA, will take you to our ordering site.

 

Counselor's Corner Character Trait for the Month

 

March's Character Trait:

Patience- to wait calmly without complaining.

February's Character Trait was empathy- A feeling or understanding of what someone else is feeling.  Check out this video with our student highlights for empathy: https://youtu.be/ogUzIeQyb6s

 

 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Message to 6th Grade Parents/Guardians:

 

In the month of March, sixth-grade students will receive two lessons on the topic of sexual harassment.  These lessons seek to provide students with the necessary information, resources, and strategies to help prevent occurrences of sexual harassment as well as outline the steps to take if they feel they or their peers are targets of these behaviors.  In addition, the lessons share how schools support targeted students so that they can continue to focus on learning in an environment that feels comfortable and secure.  Parents/guardians may request to view these two lessons prior to deciding whether to opt their child(ren) out of the lessons. Please reach out to the school counselor for instructions on where to preview the lessons.

Parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of the two sixth-grade lessons on the topic of sexual harassment.  Letters and opt-out forms will be given to your child in the upcoming week. It will provide more information on how to opt your sixth-grade child out of the lessons about sexual harassment.  If you do not receive the letter or opt-out form or have any additional questions, please contact Veronica Guillion, School Counselor at 703-822-2200.

 

Register Now for Kindergarten

We look forward to welcoming our newest Penguins to Franconia ES for the 2023-2024 school year. Registration packets are available in the Franconia ES Main Office or you may download the forms using the link below.

The registration requirements are as follows:

For incoming Kindergarten students – please visit https://www.fcps.edu/registration/kindergarten-registration

It is important that you have filled out all of the paperwork, and bring with you the following:

  1. Photo ID
  2. Original Birth Certificate
  3. Proof of Residency (Deed or Lease to your home)
  4. Virginia Physical and Immunization Record (due prior to school starting in August)

When you are ready, and have gathered most of your documentation, please call to make a registration appointment.  All registrations are done by appointment only.

For further information, the Fairfax County Public Schools website is www.fcps.edu and the Franconia Elementary website is https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/

To keep in touch with Franconia ES Community, please consider signing up for News You Choose – our e-newsletter  Subscribe to Franconia's Wednesday Word here

Please contact Patrick Pacak, our Registrar, at  [email protected] or 703-822-2203 with any questions. 

       ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

 A Note From Our K Team

Do you have a child who will be 5 years of age by September 30, 2023, and do you plan on sending them to kindergarten at Franconia for the 2023-2024 school year?

We are in the process of preparing for our kindergarten registration and orientation.  If your child is ready for kindergarten, call the school at 703-822-2200 so we may add you to our list of rising kindergarten students.

Please consider joining us at the school with your future kindergartener for our Kindergarten Orientation on Wednesday, April 19, from 5:30-6:30pm.  During this presentation, we will provide information about the kindergarten program at Franconia Elementary, while the future kindergarteners get to explore the classroom, participate in fun kindergarten activities, and take a ride on a school bus around the neighborhood. 

❤ Kindergarten Team

 

Immunization Requirements for Rising 7th Graders

The Code of Virginia requires all students to be immunized against certain communicable diseases prior to entrance into Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS).

All students entering 7th grade will be required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations prior to the beginning of school: Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap), Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

●     To meet the Meningococcal (MenACWY) requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 10 or older.      

●     As a parent/guardian, you may decide that your child not receive the HPV vaccination. The school does not require documentation if a parent/guardian elects for their student not to receive the HPV vaccination.

ACTION REQUESTED: Please provide one of the following immunization documents to the Student Information Assistant (SIA) or Registrar at your child’s school as soon as possible:

  1. An immunization record showing that the child has received at least one dose of each of the required immunizations listed above.
  2. A note on a healthcare provider’s letterhead stating the date the vaccine(s) was given.
  3. A healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.

4.    A notarized Religious Exemption Form, which is available online at: https://bit.ly/VDOEReligiousExemptionForm

Immunizations are available from your child’s healthcare provider, the Fairfax County Health Department, or other community resources.

Questions?  Please contact our Registrar, Patrick Pacak, at [email protected] or 703-822-2203  

 

Help Needed in the Library

Do you have a spare moment in the day to lend Mrs. Vandersande a hand?

The library needs volunteers to help scan in returns and shelve books any time during the school day.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040e4caead2faaf49-library1#/

 

Find Free COVID-19 Testing in Your Community

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched a COVID-19 Testing Locator website, which can help families find no-cost COVID-19 testing sites.  Testing is available at pharmacies and other locations and is provided at no cost to individuals with or without health insurance. Results are typically provided within 24-48 hours. 

 

FCPS Inclement Weather Policy

When bad weather or other emergency situations occur, it may be necessary for FCPS to cancel, delay, or close schools early.

The safety of our students and staff is our number one priority any time a decision must be made regarding school closures and delays during a weather situation. We review information from emergency management and state highway administrators about road conditions, and school personnel also go out and inspect the conditions of roads, sidewalks, and FCPS parking lots and bus lanes.

FCPS tries to make decisions in the evening, taking into account that parents need time to make proper arrangements. But when there is a lot of uncertainty, we wait to get the latest morning forecast. In that case, the superintendent makes the decision of whether to delay or close schools by approximately 4:30 a.m.

FCPS provides information about closings and delays in many ways including:

  • Posted to www.fcps.edu.
  • Posted to the FCPS Twitter and Facebook pages.
  • Email and text messages sent to parents (using the parent contact information listed in [email protected]). 
  • Email sent to employees (using the employee's FCPS email address).
  • Email sent to News You Choose subscribers of Delayed Openings and School Closings.
  • Posted on FCPS cable Channel 21 (Cox Communications, Reston Comcast, and Verizon (channel 11) cable customers only).
  • Area radio and television stations.

                       

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

Wednesday Word - 2/22/23

GovDelivery3 months 2 weeks ago
UPCOMING EVENTS
  • Friday, 2/24 - FES PTA Book Blast 6:00pm-8:00pm in the Gym
  • Thursday, 3/2 -  2 Hour Early Release from School
  • Friday, 3/3 -  School Planning Day-No School for Students
  • Friday, 3/3 - FES Read- A-Thon Ends
  • Wednesday, 3/6 - PEP Meeting, 6pm in the FES Library
  • Thursday, 3/16 - FES International Day Festival 6:00pm-8:00pm
  • Friday, 3/24 - Deadline to order Yearbooks
  • Wednesday, 4/19 - Kindergarten Orientation 5:30pm-6:30pm

 

Last Call for Lion King Shirts!

LAST CHANCE to get your ONE-OF-A-KIND Lion King Kids t-shirt before the store closes!

Proceeds from our sales will go toward the Penguin Performer funds for props, future musical purchases and more so spread the word!! Click the link below to order your shirts today. Orders close on Monday, February 27th. These shirts take about 2 weeks to fulfil and will be delivered to the students by Ms. Lucius. Mark your calendars for our performances on April 27th and 28th at 6:30 p.m.!

https://www.customink.com/g/rej0-00cq-81dm

 

 Read-A-Thon Updates February 1 - March 2, 2023

Click here to register your Penguin with a Read-a-Thon account, access their reading dashboard and share their fundraising page.

We are SO PROUD of our Penguin Readers!

  • 183,418 Minutes Read
  • $13,950 Donated- We are SO CLOSE to our goal, thank you to all who have donated!
  • Mrs. Blum's 4th Grade is LEADING in MINUTES read (25,196 minutes)
  • Mr. Pina's class is LEADING in DONATIONS ($1,555)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

We Need Your Help

We are so excited about our increasing reading that it's easy to forget Read-A-Thon is also the PTA's main fundraiser for the year! Your donations help us keep our events free and fun, and help fund the school's library and Mindfulness Lab.

Choose just one action item to help.

If every student raises just $30 we will reach our goal!

  1. Share your child's fundraising page on social media (there's an easy link on the student dashboard).
  2. Email or Text your child's fundraising link to grandparents, aunts and uncles (the dashboard makes this easy as well!).
  3. Share THIS LINK with local business who may be interested in donating to the Read-A-Thon and receive advertising options to the whole school.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 

The PTA would like to thank the following business donors:

Independence Landscape

Harmony Animal Hospital

 

.

Franconia Elementary BOOK BLAST Friday, February 24 6:00-8:00pm in the Gym

 

Join your fellow Penguins for a FREE night of literacy based GAMES and ACTIVITIES to win CANDY and PRIZES! Earn reading minutes for our Read-A-Thon and explore how fun reading can be.

Meet local children's authors and purchase a signed book!

**Special Appearance by BELLE from Beauty and the Beast thanks to The Fantastical Character Company.**

Concessions will be sold by Edison class of 2024

This is not a drop-off event, all children must be supervised. Book Blast is open to Franconia Elementary students and their families only.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

We need VOLUNTEERS to have a successful Book Blast!

CLICK HERE to be a part of this fun event!

(The event will take place completely in the gym with children going from station to station to complete activities. Children are welcome to help their parent volunteer, or may attend stations on their own while the parent is volunteering.)

 

 

Parents as Educational Partners (PEP) Meeting March 8th at 6pm

Please join us for our seventh Parents as Educational Partners (PEP) meeting-Wednesday, March 8th at 6 p.m. in Franconia's Library. We will learn about upcoming events at Franconia Elementary including our International Festival and SOL Assessments. 

 

WHAT:  PEP is a parent-teacher organization for parents of students from Kindergarten to Sixth Grade of any language or cultural background.  

 

WHY:  The mission of PEP is to increase the academic achievement of students by developing and maintaining strong school-home partnerships tied to improved student achievement. 

 

HOW:  During our meetings, we will create a safe, informed space through which we can empower families to seek information to best support their children's educational journeys.

 

WHEN:  We plan to meet the second Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m.  Our next session will take place Wednesday, March 8th .  

 

WHERE:  We will meet in the library at Franconia Elementary School.  

 

Your PEP teachers are specifically prepared to provide you with accurate information about Franconia Elementary.  Some of the topics that we may cover during our meetings include:

  • School Personnel and the School Day
  • School Procedures
  • Parent-Teacher Conferences
  • Report Cards and Curriculum
  • Special Education and Advanced Academics
  • Study skills/Homework
  • School Health Procedures
  • Other school-specific topics that are of interest and benefit to the group 

 

Questions?  Please email [email protected].

 

Congratulations to our own Ms. Chicarella!

Please Join us in congratulating Ms. Ashley Chicarella on winning Edison Pyramid's Outstanding New Teacher Award!  Ms. Chicarella is a Special Education Teacher, supporting 4th and 5th Grade students, here at Franconia. We wish her luck as she advances to the Region 3 level, and are so proud she is a Penguin!

 

.

Chess Club Franconia ES (sponsored by the PTA)

 

Magnus Chess Academy will be offering another 12-week series of instruction on Mondays, 3:45-4:45, beginning Feb 27.

CLASS DATES:

  • 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, (no club 4/3), 4/10, 4/17, 4/24, 5/1, 5/8, 5/15, 5/22

The club will take place at school, is open to all students K-6, at a total cost of $216/student.

REGISTER HERE:

http://www.chessacademy.com   

 

 Get FREE registration by volunteering on-site during each of the 12 sessions to assist with check-in and check-out!

Contact Matt at [email protected] to find out more details about volunteering!

 

Fun is the name of the game...

...but Magnus Chess Academy also sneaks in a bit of critical thinking, sportsmanship, and patience into chess club!

Each week students of all levels do a fun but challenging lesson with one of our great coaches from our world class curriculum followed by practice games against other students in the class.

Join the 100,000 (and counting!) kids who've learned chess with the official academy of world champion Magnus Carlsen. This in-person club includes online

 

Register Today for Girls on the Run at Franconia ES (sponsored by the PTA)

 

Registration is now open for the Girls on the Run (GOTR), coached by Ms Borsos and Ms Dickerson. By using a curriculum that creatively integrates running with life lessons, Girls on the Run empowers girls to develop the confidence and character they need to become strong and healthy young adults. GOTR is open to girls in grades 3-6.

GOTR will meet Tues and Thurs from 3:45-4:45pm between March 7 and May 19, with a 5K event on either May 20 or May 21. The standard program fee is $185, but GOTR offers military and sibling discounts, as well as financial assistance available for all families. For more information, go to the Girls on the Run of NOVA website (www.gotrnova.org)

REGISTER HERE:

Girls on the Run 2023 Registration  

.

Yearbooks are Now on Sale

Don’t miss out on the chance to get your child a yearbook. 2022-23 Yearbooks are $18.00 and the deadline to order is March 24th. No yearbook orders will be taken after that date. So, make plans to order yours today!

Yearbooks are only sold/purchased online. Start your purchase by going  to: yearbookordercenter.com, typing in 21927 or searching for Franconia Elementary, Alexandria VA, will take you to our ordering site.

 

International Day Fashion Show Walk the Red Carpet in Fashion!

Franconia Elementary will be holding an International Day Program on Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 2pm.  We are looking for students who are willing to walk the red carpet and model their culture-based outfits at the International Day Assembly.  Interested students must have a signed permission form and a completed description on the origin of the outfit and any additional information about the outfit.  Filling out this form confirms that you will be in the Fashion Show.  Please return this form to Mrs. Yortzidis by February 28th.

 

Franconia’s International Festival

The 2023 International Day Festival will be on Thursday, March 16
and families are invited to join us at school from 6 to 8 PM.


You are also welcome to take a “Walk Around the World”
throughout the school building by touring our
creatively decorated classroom doors!


The school will be divided into north, south, east, west regions
with matching continents -
you can visualize our school map like the world map.

All classroom doors will be dedicated to celebrating a specific country
within their assigned continent!

This has been part of a fun, interactive school-wide
multicultural learning project.


Try asking your child today:
“What country is your classroom door decorated for?”
Then, come see it in person on March 16th!

 

Counselor's Corner February Guidance Lessons with Mrs. Guillion (K-3 & 6th) & Mrs. Fry (4th, 5th & 6th)

 

This month, Kindergarten and 1st  grade students will learn how to solve conflicts with others by using a method called Kelso Choices. 

Our 2nd and 3rd grade students will write action plans for personal goals. 

With Mrs. Fry, our 4th , 5th  and 6th’ grades will have a lesson on empathy for self and others, along with why the words we use matter in regard to how we speak about, and to, ourselves and others.

We are excited to see all our students continue to grow in character and kindness!

 

     ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Message to 6th Grade Parents/Guardians:

 

In the month of March, sixth-grade students will receive two lessons on the topic of sexual harassment.  These lessons seek to provide students with the necessary information, resources, and strategies to help prevent occurrences of sexual harassment as well as outline the steps to take if they feel they or their peers are targets of these behaviors.  In addition, the lessons share how schools support targeted students so that they can continue to focus on learning in an environment that feels comfortable and secure.  Parents/guardians may request to view these two lessons prior to deciding whether to opt their child(ren) out of the lessons. Please reach out to the school counselor for instructions on where to preview the lessons.

Parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of the two sixth-grade lessons on the topic of sexual harassment.  Letters and opt-out forms will be given to your child in the upcoming week. It will provide more information on how to opt your sixth-grade child out of the lessons about sexual harassment.  If you do not receive the letter or opt-out form or have any additional questions, please contact Veronica Guillion, School Counselor at 703-822-2200.

 

     ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Character Trait for the Month

 

February's Character Trait:

Empathy- A feeling or understanding of what someone else is feeling.

 

Register Now for Kindergarten

We look forward to welcoming our newest Penguins to Franconia ES for the 2023-2024 school year. Registration packets are available in the Franconia ES Main Office or you may download the forms using the link below.

The registration requirements are as follows:

For incoming Kindergarten students – please visit https://www.fcps.edu/registration/kindergarten-registration

It is important that you have filled out all of the paperwork, and bring with you the following:

  1. Photo ID
  2. Original Birth Certificate
  3. Proof of Residency (Deed or Lease to your home)
  4. Virginia Physical and Immunization Record (due prior to school starting in August)

When you are ready, and have gathered most of your documentation, please call to make a registration appointment.  All registrations are done by appointment only.

For further information, the Fairfax County Public Schools website is www.fcps.edu and the Franconia Elementary website is https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/

To keep in touch with Franconia ES Community, please consider signing up for News You Choose – our e-newsletter  Subscribe to Franconia's Wednesday Word here

Please contact Patrick Pacak, our Registrar, at  [email protected] or 703-822-2203 with any questions. 

       ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

 A Note From Our K Team

Do you have a child who will be 5 years of age by September 30, 2023, and do you plan on sending them to kindergarten at Franconia for the 2023-2024 school year?

We are in the process of preparing for our kindergarten registration and orientation.  If your child is ready for kindergarten, call the school at 703-822-2200 so we may add you to our list of rising kindergarten students.

Please consider joining us at the school with your future kindergartener for our Kindergarten Orientation on Wednesday, April 19, from 5:30-6:30pm.  During this presentation, we will provide information about the kindergarten program at Franconia Elementary, while the future kindergarteners get to explore the classroom, participate in fun kindergarten activities, and take a ride on a school bus around the neighborhood. 

❤ Kindergarten Team

 

Immunization Requirements for Rising 7th Graders

The Code of Virginia requires all students to be immunized against certain communicable diseases prior to entrance into Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS).

All students entering 7th grade will be required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations prior to the beginning of school: Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap), Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

●     To meet the Meningococcal (MenACWY) requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 10 or older.      

●     As a parent/guardian, you may decide that your child not receive the HPV vaccination. The school does not require documentation if a parent/guardian elects for their student not to receive the HPV vaccination.

ACTION REQUESTED: Please provide one of the following immunization documents to the Student Information Assistant (SIA) or Registrar at your child’s school as soon as possible:

  1. An immunization record showing that the child has received at least one dose of each of the required immunizations listed above.
  2. A note on a healthcare provider’s letterhead stating the date the vaccine(s) was given.
  3. A healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.

4.    A notarized Religious Exemption Form, which is available online at: https://bit.ly/VDOEReligiousExemptionForm

Immunizations are available from your child’s healthcare provider, the Fairfax County Health Department, or other community resources.

Questions?  Please contact our Registrar, Patrick Pacak, at [email protected] or 703-822-2203  

 

Help Needed in the Library

Do you have a spare moment in the day to lend Mrs. Vandersande a hand?

The library needs volunteers to help scan in returns and shelve books any time during the school day.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040e4caead2faaf49-library1#/

 

Find Free COVID-19 Testing in Your Community

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched a COVID-19 Testing Locator website, which can help families find no-cost COVID-19 testing sites.  Testing is available at pharmacies and other locations and is provided at no cost to individuals with or without health insurance. Results are typically provided within 24-48 hours. 

 

 February Calendar Reminders

 

March  2-  Early Release

March 3- School Planning Day (Student Holiday)

  • Reminder, students have an early release on Thursday, March 2. There is no school for students on Friday, March 3, for a school planning day.

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

 

FCPS Inclement Weather Policy

When bad weather or other emergency situations occur, it may be necessary for FCPS to cancel, delay, or close schools early.

The safety of our students and staff is our number one priority any time a decision must be made regarding school closures and delays during a weather situation. We review information from emergency management and state highway administrators about road conditions, and school personnel also go out and inspect the conditions of roads, sidewalks, and FCPS parking lots and bus lanes.

FCPS tries to make decisions in the evening, taking into account that parents need time to make proper arrangements. But when there is a lot of uncertainty, we wait to get the latest morning forecast. In that case, the superintendent makes the decision of whether to delay or close schools by approximately 4:30 a.m.

FCPS provides information about closings and delays in many ways including:

  • Posted to www.fcps.edu.
  • Posted to the FCPS Twitter and Facebook pages.
  • Email and text messages sent to parents (using the parent contact information listed in [email protected]). 
  • Email sent to employees (using the employee's FCPS email address).
  • Email sent to News You Choose subscribers of Delayed Openings and School Closings.
  • Posted on FCPS cable Channel 21 (Cox Communications, Reston Comcast, and Verizon (channel 11) cable customers only).
  • Area radio and television stations.

                       

 

Please remember to notify the school office of any of the following changes that come up for your child.

Notification should be made by 9:00am on the day of the change.

  • Absence
  • Late arrival
  • Planned early pick-up or mid-day appointment (pick-up and return)
    • If your child needs to be picked up unexpectedly, please call the office (703-822-2200) in advance of your arrival
    • This allows the office to contact your child’s teacher to prepare your child for their departure
    • For early pick-ups after 3:00pm, please park on Kathmoor as the school buses start to arrive for dismissal at that time and the front parking lot will be off limits
  • Changes in dismissal mode (https://franconiaes.fcps.edu/about/change-dismissal-form)

Below are the 3 options by which to notify the school office (choose one option):

Please do this IN ADDITION to contacting your child's teacher.  There could be times when the teacher is absent and, by also contacting the office, the information will be properly noted.

To email your child’s teacher, click HERE.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

 

 

FCPS CARES Recognize FCPS Employees

FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

The start of the school year is a great time to acknowledge someone who has helped to make your child's return to school amazing.

Learn how you can acknowledge an FCPS employee for their great work.

FCPS Parent Resource Center Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 105 Dunn Loring, VA

 

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members.

 

PARENT RESOURCE CENTER CONTACT INFO:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-204-3941

Web: https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center

Twitter: @prc_fcps

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcpsprc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FCPSParentResourceCenter

 

 

FREE CONSULTATIONS:

  • The PRC offers free, confidential in-person, videoconference, and phone consultations for families and FCPS staff.
  • Appointments are highly encouraged.
  • They can brainstorm strategies and possible solutions to help you address your concerns by drawing upon resources and support from FCPS, as well as community, state, and national centers.

TUTOR LIST:

  • The PRC maintains a list of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in VA and want to tutor after their contracted school day.
  • Contact the PRC at 703-204-3941 or [email protected] for more information.

FREE LENDING LIBRARY:

  • Come explore the library for families and staff, 8:00am-4:00pm
  • The library contains over 10,000 books, eBooks, DVDs, and CDs on topics related to parenting and educating all children, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
  • Check out up to 6 items and keep them for 3 weeks.  Renewals are easy - just call or email us.
  • Find library resources to support your child with help from the Parent Resource Center staff.
  • Call us and we can have library materials ready for you to pick up.
  • Return library materials to us 24/7 in our book return or use the FCPS inter-office mail.  Contact us for details.

 

FREE WEBINARS:

  • Register here - https://bit.ly/3hSRIZW
  • Watch recorded webinars - https://bit.ly3rpPl3Q
    1. To turn videos into preferred languages, open a video - choose any video on YouTube and follow these directions to have closed-captioning in your preferred language:
    2. Click the CC button - make sure it is underlined in red.
    3. Click the settings button - it looks like a gear.
    4. Click subtitles.
    5. Click auto-translate.
    6. Choose a language.

 

Penguin Points Click on a link for information

Franconia Elementary School website

 

6301 Beulah Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22310 | Office: 703-822-2200

Attendance: 703-822-2222 |  | Web | Twitter

10 minutes 22 seconds ago
Franconia Elementary School News and Announcements
http://www.fcps.edu/index.shtml Subscribe to GovDelivery feed