FCPS

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In This Message: 

• Principals' Message
• PTA News and Announcements
• Outstanding Employee School Winners
• Upcoming Photo Make Up Day
• Walk in My Shoes
• Floris Recess Bin Donations
• Giving Tree Charity
• Boundary Review
• Advanced Academics Information
• Upcoming Parent Session
• District News/ In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)
• Upcoming Dates   

Principals' Message

Dear Floris Families,

We want to thank all of our families who attended the Thanksgiving Day Lunch today! It was a special day, filled with positive energy and so much joy. Our students, staff, and families had the chance to come together, enjoy delicious food, and celebrate the wonderful community we’ve built.

It was incredible to hear the laughter, see the smiles, and watch our kids connecting with their friends. Your presence and continued engagement in our school make such a difference, and we are grateful for the love and support you bring to our school family.

Thank you again for making this event such a success!

Enjoy the weekend, and we look forward to more moments like these in the future!

Thank you, 

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Robert Gibbs, Assistant Principal

PTA News and Announcements 👉Join the PTA! 👈

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended the Floris Spirit Ball last Friday. The children had an unforgettable time, and we hope the parents enjoyed the opportunity to connect with fellow community members.

The PTA is deeply grateful for the support and enthusiasm of all the parents and guardians who have participated in events this year. Your involvement not only helps create lasting memories for your students but also has a meaningful impact on their educational experience.

 

First Lego League Winners!

Congratulations to the Floris 5th graders who won the regional First Lego League Division 1 championship at Chantilly High School this past weekend!

The all-girls team of Aditi K, Aadhira S, Anoushka G, Daniella T, Meera S & Shreeya P won 2 awards:  Robot Performance Award ( 2nd place) and the Champions Award ( 1st place). The team "Rainbow Radishes" is headed to the FLL States Tournament at James Madison University on Dec 7th!

Way to go!

  VASO Division B registration is open

Floris students in 6th grade are invited to register for the 2024 Virginia Science Olympiad (VASO) Division B, which holds multiple Spring tournaments typically in mid-February or early-March. FIND MORE INFORMATION HERE.

 

Reflections:

The deadline for entries is Friday, December 6.  Read more information here

🌟Floris Outstanding Employee Winners 🌟

Thank you so much for all of the thoughtful nominations for our fabulous staff!  All of the nomination write ups were put together for a selection committee, which met on Monday morning. The Outstanding Employees from Floris, moving on to compete against other school winners for the Westfield Pyramid, are:

• Outstanding Teacher: Sydney Lynch (1st Grade Teacher)
• Outstanding New Teacher: Jennie Tieff (4th Grade Teacher)
• Outstanding Professional Employee: Willa McGrath (School-Based Technology Specialist)
• Outstanding Operational Employee: Aparajita Mehra (Kindergarten Assistant)
• Outstanding Leader: Robert Gibbs (Assistant Principal)
• Outstanding Principal: Joshua DeSmyter

Every staff member that was nominated received all of the kind words, so that they could feel the love, and we are incredibly fortunate to have such a supportive community.  Thank you!

Upcoming Photo Make Up Day on December 4th

You may have noticed in our upcoming dates that our school photographers are coming back on December 4th.  This photo day is for students who were absent, new to the school, or who were not happy with their original package (students are required to return their original package to the photographer). No purchase is necessary!

Walk in My Shoes Program: Volunteers Needed!

Floris is once again partnering with “Walk in My Shoes” to bring a special event to all 4th, 5th and 6th graders in December.  Students will participate in hands on learning activities designed to teach students to be respectful and inclusive of all children, especially those with medical, developmental, or learning challenges.  In order for the program to be successful, we need parent volunteers.  Even if your student is not yet in 4th grade, we need you!  Training to run an activity and the related conversation will be provided prior to the event.  It is a lot of fun and easy to do, so please email Sarah de Kramer at [email protected] if you can volunteer.  The schedule is as follows, please let us know if you would like to help on a day or two!!

4th grade – Dec. 6th, 11:00-12:50

5th grade – Dec. 4th, 12:30-2:15

6th grade – Dec. 6th, 9:00-10:35

Please Fill Our Floris Recess Bin!!

Floris has a new recess bin for storage of playground equipment. The equipment is shared by our students and is available during the school day. It will be secured during non-school hours. The problem is….we lack the equipment to share. Thank you to those who have already donated things.  We could really use some more donations of second-hand equipment that can be safely used by our students. We are collecting second-hand equipment to help fill our bin.  The following items (in usable condition) will be accepted:

• Soft or soft-shelled soccer balls
• Nerf footballs
• Frisbees or Frisbee rings
• Basketballs
• Jump ropes
• Playground or kick balls
• Velcro catching mitts and balls

We will be accepting donations in our main lobby and you are welcome to send the equipment to school with your child to be donated. So, please visit those attic spaces and corners of your garage that may contain recess equipment just waiting to be used.

Thank you for considering making a donation to our Floris recess bin.

Floris’ Annual Giving Tree – To Benefit Local Families

As we move towards the holiday season, we are reminded that there are families in need in our community, especially during breaks from school such as winter break.  Floris will once again offer the opportunity to support these families through our Giving Tree.  It is super simple, just sign up to purchase a Target or Walmart gift card and deliver or send to school.    

👉Sign Up Here! 👈

We ask that all gift cards be mailed or dropped off in the office by Dec. 13th.   The school address for mailing cards is:

2708 Centreville Road
Herndon, 20171
attn:  Sarah de Kramer.

If you are or know of a family in need, please email [email protected].   We truly are ONE FLORIS and for that our staff is so grateful!

📍 Boundary Review Community Meeting

Community meetings regarding FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will take place in each of the division's six regions. You are encouraged to attend the meeting in our region, which will take place on Monday, December 2, 6:30-8 p.m., at Westfield High School Cafeteria.

Please register in advance by clicking on the date. Language interpretation will be available. 

If you are unable to attend on this date, view the full list of meetings on the Comprehensive School Boundary Review webpage.

Advanced Academic Services Information 

Thank you to the families who attended Monday's information session on full-time services screening.  For those that were unable to attend, please find the presentation linked, here on our Floris webpage.

Upcoming Screening Information for Full-Time AAP Services

If you are interested in referring your child for Full-Time AAP services for the 25-26 School Year (Grades 2-6 only), please submit the required Full-Time AAP Referral Form and optional Parent/Guardian Questionnaire to Amy Albanese [email protected]  (Grades 3,5) or Katie Pickett [email protected] (grades 2, 4, 6) by no later than December 15, 2024.

Parent Session With the Clinical Team:

Book discussion and tips for managing technology use at home

You are invited to join us from 12:00-1:00 tomorrow, Friday November 22nd  in room 165 to review recent research on the impact of social media and other technology use on developing minds and to discuss strategies for limiting use. Reading the book is recommended but not required to join this discussion (we have a few copies available to borrow).

Willa McGrath, FCPS technology specialist, will be joining us to provide some practical recommendations on how to protect students from harmful online exposure. Please RSVP to Maggie Seneca, [email protected]. 

Update!! A virtual session will be offered TONIGHT at 7:00pm. Please email Maggie Seneca to get the link for the virtual meeting.

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

FCPS News:

• In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
• Veterans Day Recognitions
• Resources on IEPs, Financial Aid, Literacy, Community Leadership
• Teacher Hiring Event

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Dates for the 2024-2025 School Year 

November 27-29: Holiday, Thanksgiving

December 4: Picture Makeup Day

December 9: 3-hour early release

December 23- January 3: Holiday, Winter Break

January 14: Club and Candid Photos

January 20: Holiday, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and Inauguration Day

January 28: End of 2nd Quarter

January 29: Student Holiday, Teacher Workday

January 31: PTA Movie Night

February 12: Spelling Bee

February 17: Holiday, Presidents' Day

Find the 2024-2025 School Year Calendar: https://www.fcps.edu/calendars/standard-school-year-calendar

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Parent Session With the Clinical Team:

Book discussion and tips for managing technology use at home

You are invited to join us from 12:00-1:00 on Friday November 22nd  in room 165 to review recent research on the impact of social media and other technology use on developing minds and to discuss strategies for limiting use. Reading the book is recommended but not required to join this discussion (we have a few copies available to borrow).

Willa McGrath, FCPS technology specialist, will be joining us to provide some practical recommendations on how to protect students from harmful online exposure. Please RSVP to Maggie Seneca, [email protected]. 

Update!! A virtual session will be offered tomorrow,  Thursday, November 21st at 7:00pm. Please email Maggie Seneca to get the link for the virtual meeting.

We look forward to meeting with you!

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

In This Message: 

• Principals' Message
• PTA News and Announcements
• Walk in My Shoes
• Floris Recess Bin Donations
• Giving Tree Charity
• Boundary Review
• IEP Palooza
• Sensory Disabilities
• Tutoring Resources
• Advanced Academics Information
• Upcoming Parent Session
• District News/ In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)
• Upcoming Dates   

Principals' Message

Dear Floris Families,

We hope you’ve all had a wonderful week! We know that November has had its share of inconsistencies with all the days off, but we want to assure you that our teachers have remained consistent in providing engaging and meaningful instruction for your children.

We are so excited to see our community tomorrow evening at the Spirit Ball! It’s been so much fun seeing the participation throughout Spirit Week as students and teachers dressed up and had a blast together. We appreciate the enthusiasm and spirit that everyone has brought to this week.

And, back by popular demand, we are already gearing up for our Thanksgiving Day lunch on November 21st! We can’t wait to connect with families and see all the smiling faces as we celebrate together. This event will be a great way to bring positive momentum into the upcoming holiday break.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We’re looking forward to all the upcoming events and celebrations as we finish out November strong!

Thank you, 

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Robert Gibbs, Assistant Principal

PTA News and Announcements 👉Join the PTA! 👈

 

Third Grade: Snack Pack Service Project is November 22.

👉Sign-up here to donate items.👈

  Get ready for the Spirit Ball!

Thank you to everyone who registered for Spirit Ball. We are looking forward to a great evening on Friday!

REGISTER HERE!

(While this event is FREE, due to capacity limits, we need attendees to register)

WHEN: Tomorrow, Friday, November 15, 6:30 - 8:00 PM

WHERE: Floris Cafeteria and Gym, Enter via Door 6

WHO: All are welcome to the K-6 Spirit Ball!

DJ, Dancing, Pizza, Bakesale, Silent Raffle, Photo Booth, Silent Auction, Merchandise Sale, Class Poster Contest, Spirit Wear Contests and More!

 

 

TONIGHT, November 14th, is Spirit Night at the Chick-fil-A!

Come by from 5-8 pm to enjoy dinner with family and friends while supporting the Floris PTA. A portion of the sales will go back to our school, so bring your appetite and school spirit!

Walk in My Shoes Program: Volunteers Needed!

Floris is once again partnering with “Walk in My Shoes” to bring a special event to all 4th, 5th and 6th graders in December.  Students will participate in hands on learning activities designed to teach students to be respectful and inclusive of all children, especially those with medical, developmental, or learning challenges.  In order for the program to be successful, we need parent volunteers.  Even if your student is not yet in 4th grade, we need you!  Training to run an activity and the related conversation will be provided prior to the event.  It is a lot of fun and easy to do, so please email Sarah de Kramer at [email protected] if you can volunteer.  The schedule is as follows, please let us know if you would like to help on a day or two!!

4th grade – Dec. 6th, 11:00-12:50

5th grade – Dec. 4th, 12:30-2:15

6th grade – Dec. 6th, 9:00-10:35

Please Fill Our Floris Recess Bin!!

Floris has a new recess bin for storage of playground equipment. The equipment is shared by our students and is available during the school day. It will be secured during non-school hours. The problem is….we lack the equipment to share. Thank you to those who have already donated things.  We could really use some more donations of second-hand equipment that can be safely used by our students. We are collecting second-hand equipment to help fill our bin.  The following items (in usable condition) will be accepted:

• Soft or soft-shelled soccer balls
• Nerf footballs
• Frisbees or Frisbee rings
• Basketballs
• Jump ropes
• Playground or kick balls
• Velcro catching mitts and balls

We will be accepting donations in our main lobby and you are welcome to send the equipment to school with your child to be donated. So, please visit those attic spaces and corners of your garage that may contain recess equipment just waiting to be used.

Thank you for considering making a donation to our Floris recess bin.

Floris’ Annual Giving Tree – To Benefit Local Families

As we move towards the holiday season, we are reminded that there are families in need in our community, especially during breaks from school such as winter break.  Floris will once again offer the opportunity to support these families through our Giving Tree.  It is super simple, just sign up to purchase a Target or Walmart gift card and deliver or send to school.    

👉Sign Up Here! 👈

We ask that all gift cards be mailed or dropped off in the office by Dec. 13th.   The school address for mailing cards is:

2708 Centreville Road
Herndon, 20171
attn:  Sarah de Kramer.

If you are or know of a family in need, please email [email protected].   We truly are ONE FLORIS and for that our staff is so grateful!

📍 Boundary Review Community Meetings Start This Month

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

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

IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair

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

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

Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students

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

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

Tutoring Resources for Families

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

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

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

Advanced Academic Services Information 

Thank you to the families who attended our information session on September 30th.  For those that were unable to attend, please find the presentation linked, here on our Floris webpage.

Upcoming Screening Information for Full-Time AAP Services

If you are interested in referring your child for Full-Time AAP services for the 25-26 School Year (Grades 2-6 only), please submit the required Full-Time AAP Referral Form and optional Parent/Guardian Questionnaire to Amy Albanese [email protected]  (Grades 3,5) or Katie Pickett [email protected] (grades 2, 4, 6) by no later than December 15, 2024.

For families interested in learning more about the screening process for full-time advanced academics, we will be hosting an information session about this process on Monday, November 18th at 6PM. 

• This information session will be virtual and can be accessed via this Zoom link.

Parent Session With the Clinical Team:

Book discussion and tips for managing technology use at home

You are invited to join us from 12:00-1:00 on Friday November 22nd to review recent research on the impact of social media and other technology use on developing minds and to discuss strategies for limiting use. Reading the book is recommended but not required to join this discussion (we have a few copies available to borrow).

Willa McGrath, FCPS technology specialist, will be joining us to provide some practical recommendations on how to protect students from harmful online exposure. All are welcome, Please RSVP to Maggie Seneca, [email protected].

 

Update!! A virtual session will be offered Thursday, November 21st at 7:00pm. Please email Maggie Seneca to get the link for the virtual meeting.

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

FCPS News:  In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Fall Testing Results
• Boundary Review Community Meetings
• Resources for Families 

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Dates for the 2024-2025 School Year 

November 15: PTA Spirit Ball

November 20: PTA Meeting, 6:30pm

November 21: Thanksgiving Lunch

November 27-29: Holiday, Thanksgiving

December 4: Picture Makeup Day

December 9: 3-hour early release

December 23- January 3: Holiday, Winter Break

Find the 2024-2025 School Year Calendar: https://www.fcps.edu/calendars/standard-school-year-calendar

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Reminder!

Don't forget: the Spirit Ball is on Friday, so we're kicking things off TOMORROW, with a spirited week here at Floris!  Take a peek:

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

  There's Still Time to Nominate Some of Our Amazing Floris Staff Members for Employee Awards!

To submit a nomination for a Floris Elementary Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form. You may nominate an employee in one or more categories. All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. Please note that if your nominee is selected to represent Floris ES, you will be asked to complete the Nomination Packet. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards and the eligibility requirements are below. 

Outstanding Teacher  
Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district).

Outstanding New Teacher
Eligibility: Within their first three years of being a teacher (in any school/school district).

Outstanding Professional Employee  
Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership
Common positions in this category: School Counselor, School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Psychologist, Social Worker, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school

Outstanding Operational Employee
Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee
Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA

Outstanding Leader
Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal)
Common positions in this category: Assistant Principals

Outstanding Principal
Eligibility: Has at least three years of being a building principal (in any school/school district).

Please Note: The deadline to submit a nomination is Tuesday, November 12.

If you have any questions, please contact Willa McGrath at [email protected]

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

In This Message: 

• Principals' Message
• PTA News and Announcements
• Spirit Week Next Week
• Outstanding Employee Award Nominations
• Last Chance to Honor Your Hero
• Walk in My Shoes
• Giving Tree Charity
• Impact Aid 
• Advanced Academics Information
• Upcoming Parent Session
• District News/ In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)
• Upcoming Dates   

Principals' Message

Dear Floris Families,

Thank you to everyone who attended today's Veterans Day concert. It was truly a special event, and it was wonderful to see our community come together to honor and celebrate this important day. Your support and participation made the event even more meaningful. Remember, that we do not have school Monday, in observance of Veterans Day. 

It’s been another amazing week here at Floris, and we couldn’t be more proud of how quickly our students have settled back into the swing of things. There have been so many smiling faces and engaged learners in every classroom, and it's clear that our students are excited to back at school.

We look forward to all that the coming weeks will bring!

Thank you, 

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Robert Gibbs, Assistant Principal

PTA News and Announcements 👉Join the PTA! 👈

 

Third Grade: Snack Pack Service Project is November 22.

👉Sign-up here to donate items.👈

  Get ready for the Spirit Ball!

REGISTER HERE!

(While this event is FREE, due to capacity limits, we need attendees to register)

WHEN: Friday, November 15, 6:30 - 8:00 PM

WHERE: Floris Cafeteria and Gym, Enter via Door 6

WHO: All are welcome to the K-6 Spirit Ball!

DJ, Dancing, Pizza, Bakesale, Silent Raffle, Photo Booth, Silent Auction, Merchandise Sale, Class Poster Contest, Spirit Wear Contests and More!

 

 

Next Thursday, November 14th, is Spirit Night at the Chick-fil-A!

Come by from 5-8 pm to enjoy dinner with family and friends while supporting the Floris PTA. A portion of the sales will go back to our school, so bring your appetite and school spirit!

Spirit Week Next Week! 🥳Nominations are now open for the 2024-2025 FCPS Outstanding Employee Awards!🥳

To submit a nomination for a Floris Elementary Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form. You may nominate an employee in one or more categories. All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. Please note that if your nominee is selected to represent Floris ES, you will be asked to complete the Nomination Packet. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards.

• Outstanding Teacher
• Outstanding New Teacher
• Outstanding Professional Employee
• Outstanding Operational Employee
• Outstanding Leader 
• Outstanding Principal

Please Note: The deadline to submit a nomination is Tuesday, November 12.

If you have any questions, please contact Willa McGrath at [email protected]

Last Chance to Honor Your Hero!

If you have a friend or family member that your student would like to include on our Veteran’s Day “Hero Wall” (outside the cafeteria), please complete the below flyer and send to Sarah de Kramer, [email protected]. 

Walk in My Shoes Program: Volunteers Needed!

Floris is once again partnering with “Walk in My Shoes” to bring a special event to all 4th, 5th and 6th graders in December.  Students will participate in hands on learning activities designed to teach students to be respectful and inclusive of all children, especially those with medical, developmental, or learning challenges.  In order for the program to be successful, we need parent volunteers.  Even if your student is not yet in 4th grade, we need you!  Training to run an activity and the related conversation will be provided prior to the event.  It is a lot of fun and easy to do, so please email Sarah de Kramer at [email protected] if you can volunteer.  The schedule is as follows, please let us know if you would like to help on a day or two!!

4th grade – Dec. 6th, 11:00-12:50

5th grade – Dec. 4th, 12:30-2:15

6th grade – Dec. 6th, 9:00-10:35

Floris’ Annual Giving Tree – To Benefit Local Families

As we move towards the holiday season, we are reminded that there are families in need in our community, especially during breaks from school such as winter break.  Floris will once again offer the opportunity to support these families through our Giving Tree.  It is super simple, just sign up to purchase a Target or Walmart gift card and deliver or send to school.    

👉Sign Up Here! 👈

We ask that all gift cards be mailed or dropped off in the office by Dec. 13th.   The school address for mailing cards is:

2708 Centreville Road
Herndon, 20171
attn:  Sarah de Kramer.

If you are or know of a family in need, please email [email protected].   We truly are ONE FLORIS and for that our staff is so grateful!

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available online in SIS ParentVUE. If you have not already filled out the form online, we will provide paper forms in November. Please be sure to return them by Friday, November 17. 

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important, because information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Please watch this video and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page for more information.  

Need to Register for ParentVUE? 

Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey. 

Technical support for using ParentVUE or completing the survey online is available by submitting a Parent Support Request ticket. Select SISParent in the Application dropdown menu and type Federal Impact Aid Survey under Issue Description. Or, call the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277 (833-921-FCPS).

Advanced Academic Services Information 

Thank you to the families who attended our information session on September 30th.  For those that were unable to attend, please find the presentation linked, here on our Floris webpage.

Upcoming Screening Information for Full-Time AAP Services

If you are interested in referring your child for Full-Time AAP services for the 25-26 School Year (Grades 2-6 only), please submit the required Full-Time AAP Referral Form and optional Parent/Guardian Questionnaire to Amy Albanese [email protected]  (Grades 3,5) or Katie Pickett [email protected] (grades 2, 4, 6) by no later than December 15, 2024.

For families interested in learning more about the screening process for full-time advanced academics, we will be hosting an information session about this process on Monday, November 18th at 6PM. 

• This information session will be virtual and can be accessed via this Zoom link.

Parent Session With the Clinical Team:

Book discussion and tips for managing technology use at home

You are invited to join us from 12:00-1:00 on Friday November 22nd to review recent research on the impact of social media and other technology use on developing minds and to discuss strategies for limiting use. Reading the book is recommended but not required to join this discussion (we have a few copies available to borrow).

Willa McGrath, FCPS technology specialist, will be joining us to provide some practical recommendations on how to protect students from harmful online exposure. Please RSVP to Maggie Seneca, [email protected]. If there is enough interest, an evening session will be offered on Thursday November 21st at 7:00 p.m.

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

FCPS News: In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Calendar Reminders
• Resources for Families 
• Complete Impact Aid Survey

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.  

Dates for the 2024-2025 School Year 

November 11: Holiday, Veterans' Day

November 15: PTA Spirit Ball

November 20: PTA Meeting, 6:30pm

November 21: Thanksgiving Lunch

November 27-29: Holiday, Thanksgiving

December 4: Picture Makeup Day

December 9: 3-hour early release

December 23- January 3: Holiday, Winter Break

Find the 2024-2025 School Year Calendar: https://www.fcps.edu/calendars/standard-school-year-calendar

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

In This Message: 

• Principals' Message
• PTA News and Announcements
• Outstanding Employee Award Nominations
• Walk in My Shoes
• Westfield Theatre Workshop on Nov. 1
• Impact Aid 
• Advanced Academics Information
• Upcoming Parent Session
• District News/ In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)
• Upcoming Dates   

Principals' Message

Hello Floris Families,

Thank you for showing up and participating in our PTA Trunk or Treat night! We had an amazing turnout, and it was wonderful to see so many families come together. A big thank you also to everyone who joined us for our Harvest Parade today. We’re grateful for the beautiful weather, which made the day even more special for our staff and students—they had a blast!

As a reminder, there will be no school tomorrow due to a cultural observance, no school on Monday for staff development, and no school on Tuesday for a teacher workday.

But don’t worry, we’ll be back in school on November 6th—mark your calendars! Just think of it as a mini vacation... and you can use the extra time to practice your best “I miss school” face for when we return!

Enjoy your weekend, and we appreciate each and every one of you!

Thank you, 

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Robert Gibbs, Assistant Principal

PTA News and Announcements 👉Join the PTA! 👈

 

Get ready for the Spirit Ball!

REGISTER HERE!

(While this event is FREE, due to capacity limits, we need attendees to register)

WHEN: Friday, November 15, 6:30 - 8:00 PM

WHERE: Floris Cafeteria and Gym, Enter via Door 6

WHO: All are welcome to the K-6 Spirit Ball!

DJ, Dancing, Pizza, Bakesale, Silent Raffle, Photo Booth, Silent Auction, Merchandise Sale, Class Poster Contest, Spirit Wear Contests and More!

 

🥳Nominations are now open for the 2024-2025 FCPS Outstanding Employee Awards!🥳

To submit a nomination for a Floris Elementary Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form. You may nominate an employee in one or more categories. All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. Please note that if your nominee is selected to represent Floris ES, you will be asked to complete the Nomination Packet. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards.

• Outstanding Teacher
• Outstanding New Teacher
• Outstanding Professional Employee
• Outstanding Operational Employee
• Outstanding Leader 
• Outstanding Principal

Please Note: The deadline to submit a nomination is Tuesday, November 12.

If you have any questions, please contact Willa McGrath at [email protected]

Walk in My Shoes Program: Volunteers Needed!

Floris is once again partnering with “Walk in My Shoes” to bring a special event to all 4th, 5th and 6th graders in December.  Students will participate in hands on learning activities designed to teach students to be respectful and inclusive of all children, especially those with medical, developmental, or learning challenges.  In order for the program to be successful, we need parent volunteers.  Even if your student is not yet in 4th grade, we need you!  Training to run an activity and the related conversation will be provided prior to the event.  It is a lot of fun and easy to do, so please email Sarah de Kramer at [email protected] if you can volunteer.  The schedule is as follows, please let us know if you would like to help on a day or two!!

4th grade – Dec. 6th, 11:00-12:50

5th grade – Dec. 4th, 12:30-2:15

6th grade – Dec. 6th, 9:00-10:35

Westfield Theatre Workshop

Westfield Theatre is offering a FREE workshop on Friday, November 1st at Westfield HS from 10am-12pm!

Students in 4th-8th grades can join us for fun theatre games, snacks and a backstage tour. Space is limited - click here to register!

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available online in SIS ParentVUE. If you have not already filled out the form online, we will provide paper forms in November. Please be sure to return them by Friday, November 17. 

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important, because information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

Please watch this video and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page for more information.  

Need to Register for ParentVUE? 

Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey. 

Technical support for using ParentVUE or completing the survey online is available by submitting a Parent Support Request ticket. Select SISParent in the Application dropdown menu and type Federal Impact Aid Survey under Issue Description. Or, call the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277 (833-921-FCPS).

Advanced Academic Services Information 

Thank you to the families who attended our information session on September 30th.  For those that were unable to attend, please find the presentation linked, here on our Floris webpage.

Upcoming Screening Information for Full-Time AAP Services

If you are interested in referring your child for Full-Time AAP services for the 25-26 School Year (Grades 2-6 only), please submit the required Full-Time AAP Referral Form and optional Parent/Guardian Questionnaire to Amy Albanese [email protected]  (Grades 3,5) or Katie Pickett [email protected] (grades 2, 4, 6) by no later than December 15, 2024.

For families interested in learning more about the screening process for full-time advanced academics, we will be hosting an information session about this process on Monday, November 18th at 6PM. 

• This information session will be virtual and can be accessed via this Zoom link.

Parent Session With the Clinical Team:

Book discussion and tips for managing technology use at home

You are invited to join us from 12:00-1:00 on Friday November 22nd to review recent research on the impact of social media and other technology use on developing minds and to discuss strategies for limiting use. Reading the book is recommended but not required to join this discussion (we have a few copies available to borrow).

Willa McGrath, FCPS technology specialist, will be joining us to provide some practical recommendations on how to protect students from harmful online exposure. Please RSVP to Maggie Seneca, [email protected]. If there is enough interest, an evening session will be offered on Thursday November 21st at 7:00 p.m.

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Federal Impact Aid Survey
• Football Players Tackle Literacy
• Tips to Keep Children Safe

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Dates for the 2024-2025 School Year 

November 1: Holiday, Diwali-  All FCPS schools and offices closed

November 4-5: No School for Students, School Planning Day and Teacher Workday

November 11: Holiday, Veterans' Day

November 15: PTA Spirit Ball

November 20: PTA Meeting, 6:30pm

November 21: Thanksgiving Lunch

November 27-29: Holiday, Thanksgiving

December 4: Picture Makeup Day

December 9: 3-hour early release

December 23- January 3: Holiday, Winter Break

Find the 2024-2025 School Year Calendar: https://www.fcps.edu/calendars/standard-school-year-calendar

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

  Two-Hour Early Dismissal 

Today, Thursday, October 31, is the last day of the first quarter, and a two-hour early release for students.

 

Floris Dismissal Time is 2:00pm today. 

 

Friday, November 1, is a holiday this year for Diwali and Dia de los Muertos and All Saints Day. All schools and offices will be closed.

Schools are closed for students on Monday, November 4, for a school planning day, and Tuesday, November 5, for a teacher workday.

🗓️See the complete school year calendar.🗓️

We look forward to seeing everyone back on Wednesday, November 6th!

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Harvest Parade Details

When: Thursday, October 31, 9:45am-10:30am 

Where: Floris Field

What: Students have the option to dress in a school appropriate costume for this seasonal parade. Accessories that would be carried should stay at home to prevent the chance of losing them. Look alike weapons (ex. toy gun with police costume, sword with pirate, etc.), masks, and blood are not allowed. 

How: Students and parents will be outside, and students will parade by grade level. Please see map below. Since we will not be using the visitor sign-in station, family members are welcome to spectate from the field space indicated on the map. The arrows show the parade direction. Kindergarten will start the parade. 

Parents: You should report directly to the field. Parents should not enter the building for the parade. This will also save you the step of signing in!

  We look forward to seeing you soon!

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

In This Message: 

• Principals' Message
• PTA News and Announcements
• Harvest Parade Details
• Outstanding Employee Award Nominations
• Westfield Theatre Workshop on Nov. 1
• Impact Aid Window Open Now
• Upcoming Parent Session
• Immunization Clinics
• Community Conversations
• District News/ In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)
• Upcoming Dates   

Principals' Message About Early Release Monday

This is a reminder that our second early release Monday is coming up this coming Monday, October 28th. 

This week you should have received a message from the school identifying your family's selected after-school plans for Monday.  Please contact the main office for any changes to this plan.

We need your continued support to ensure that your child(ren) are aware of their after school plans.  On Monday morning, we will be verifying student dismissal plans with teachers to ensure a smooth dismissal process for all students.  Some important things to note:

• There will be two dismissals: One beginning at 1:00pm for students going home early and one at 4:00pm for students who required supervision.
• If your child is staying until 4:00pm, please do not pick them up early, unless it is an emergency. 
• Communicate any changes in dismissal directly to your child's teacher by 10:00am.
• If early release dismissal plans have not been confirmed, Floris will err on the side of caution and keep your child at school until 4:00pm.
• SACC will be hosting students at 1pm for our early release. 

Thank you for continued support and collaboration.  We appreciate your willingness to help us plan these Early Release Mondays.

 

Thank you, 

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Robert Gibbs, Assistant Principal

PTA News and Announcements 👉Join the PTA! 👈

Join us tomorrow, October 25 at 6:15PM for BINGO NIGHT.

Register to attend! 

There is a capacity limit.

 

The Floris PTA Trunk-or-Treat is on Wednesday, October 30 from 6:30-7:30PM. Please register to attend to let us know how many trick-or-treaters are coming: 

https://tinyurl.com/3umav7zs

Would you like to decorate your trunk? 

Register here:  https://tinyurl.com/4zkr5drw

Harvest Parade Details

When: October 31, 9:45am-10:30am 

Where: Floris Field

What: Students have the option to dress in a school appropriate costume for this seasonal parade. Accessories that would be carried should stay at home to prevent the chance of losing them. Look alike weapons (ex. toy gun with police costume, sword with pirate, etc.), masks, and blood are not allowed. 

How: Students and parents will be outside, and students will parade by grade level. Please see map below. The blue smiley faces are the students, and the yellow are the parents. The arrows show the parade direction. Kindergarten will start the parade. 

Parents: You should report directly to the field. Parents should not enter the building for the parade. 

🥳Nominations are now open for the 2024-2025 FCPS Outstanding Employee Awards!🥳

To submit a nomination for a Floris Elementary Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form. You may nominate an employee in one or more categories. All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. Please note that if your nominee is selected to represent Floris ES, you will be asked to complete the Nomination Packet. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards.

• Outstanding Teacher
• Outstanding New Teacher
• Outstanding Professional Employee
• Outstanding Operational Employee
• Outstanding Leader 
• Outstanding Principal

Please Note: The deadline to submit a nomination is Tuesday, November 12.

If you have any questions, please contact Willa McGrath at [email protected]

Westfield Theatre Workshop

Westfield Theatre is offering a FREE workshop on Friday, November 1st at Westfield HS from 10am-12pm!

Students in 4th-8th grades can join us for fun theatre games, snacks and a backstage tour. Space is limited - click here to register!

Federal Impact Aid Window is Open!

The Impact Aid Program is a federal program designed to directly compensate local school districts that have been financially impacted by federal activities. The program’s mission is to reimburse local school districts for local revenues lost due to the presence of federally owned, and therefore tax exempt, property. FCPS is pleased to announce that, following the success of the electronic data collection last year, the Federal Impact Aid Survey will once again be available electronically through your ParentVUE account starting October 21, 2024. For families that do not have access to ParentVUE or prefer to complete a paper form, a printed form will be provided by the school.

Learn more about Federal Impact Aid, including how to complete it via ParentVUE!

Parent Session With the Clinical Team:

Book discussion and tips for managing technology use at home

You are invited to join us from 12:00-1:00 on Friday November 22nd to review recent research on the impact of social media and other technology use on developing minds and to discuss strategies for limiting use. Reading the book is recommended but not required to join this discussion (we have a few copies available to borrow).

Willa McGrath, FCPS technology specialist, will be joining us to provide some practical recommendations on how to protect students from harmful online exposure. Please RSVP to Maggie Seneca, [email protected]. If there is enough interest, an evening session will be offered on Thursday November 21st at 7:00 p.m.

Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students 

Safeway Pharmacy will be providing immunizations at Frost Middle School for all FCPS students at no cost on: 

• Monday, October 28, 3-7 p.m.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students under the age of 19 to provide consent. Learn more about immunization resources and registering in other languages for the Safeway clinic.

Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid has hosted a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the to register to attend to the final conversation:

• Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School.

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

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• FCPS Family Orientation
• Community Conversations
• Immunization Clinics

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Dates for the 2024-2025 School Year 

October 25: PTA Bingo Night

October 28: 3-hour early release

October 30: PTA Trunk or Treat, 6:30pm

October 31: Harvest Parade, End of First Quarter and Two-Hour Early Release

November 1: Holiday, Diwali-  All FCPS schools and offices closed

November 4-5: No School for Students, School Planning Day and Teacher Workday

November 11: Holiday, Veterans' Day

November 15: PTA Spirit Ball

November 20: PTA Meeting, 6:30pm

November 21: Thanksgiving Lunch

November 27-29: Holiday, Thanksgiving

December 4: Picture Makeup Day

December 9: 3-hour early release

December 23- January 3: Holiday, Winter Break

Find the 2024-2025 School Year Calendar: https://www.fcps.edu/calendars/standard-school-year-calendar

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

  Nominations are now open for the 2024-2025 FCPS Outstanding Employee Awards!

To submit a nomination for a Floris Elementary Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form. You may nominate an employee in one or more categories. All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in the criteria for that category. Please note that if your nominee is selected to represent Floris ES, you will be asked to complete the Nomination Packet. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards and the eligibility requirements are below. 

Outstanding Teacher  
Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district).

Outstanding New Teacher
Eligibility: Within their first three years of being a teacher (in any school/school district).

Outstanding Professional Employee  
Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership
Common positions in this category: School Counselor, School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Psychologist, Social Worker, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school

Outstanding Operational Employee
Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee
Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA

Outstanding Leader
Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal)
Common positions in this category: Assistant Principals

Outstanding Principal
Eligibility: Has at least three years of being a building principal (in any school/school district).

Please Note: The deadline to submit a nomination is Tuesday, November 12.

If you have any questions, please contact Willa McGrath at [email protected]

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

In This Message: 

• Principals' Message
• PTA News and Announcements
• School Picture Day
• Harvest Parade Details
• Upcoming Parent Session
• National School Lunch Week
• Immunization Clinics
• Health Info and Emergency Care Forms
• Advanced Academics Information
• Community Conversations
• District News/ In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)
• Upcoming Dates   

Principals' Message 

Hello Floris Families!

A heartfelt thank you to all the parents who attended our PTA meeting last night, both in person and online. Your participation and input are invaluable as we work together to enhance our school in many ways.

Rob and I had the opportunity to share our school improvement plan for the 2024-25 school year and provide an update on our Floris priorities. If you weren't able to join us, we've linked the presentation below for your reference.

10.16.24 PTA Meeting- Admin Presentation Link

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend enjoying the beautiful fall weather! We look forward to welcoming your children back next week.

Sincerely,

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Rob Gibbs, Assistant Principal

PTA News and Announcements 👉Join the PTA! 👈

Join us on October 25 at 6:15PM for BINGO NIGHT.

Register to attend! 

There is a capacity limit.

 

The Floris PTA Trunk-or-Treat is on Wednesday, October 30 from 6:30-7:30PM. Please register to attend to let us know how many trick-or-treaters are coming: 

https://tinyurl.com/3umav7zs

Would you like to decorate your trunk? 

Register here:  https://tinyurl.com/4zkr5drw

📸School Picture Day is Coming!📸

📅 Date: Tuesday, October 22, 2024🛒

Pre-order Online: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001139210#login

📸 Images Available: Approximately two-three weeks after picture day

📧 Questions about Ordering? Email us at [email protected]

Thank you so much for your help in making Picture Day a fantastic experience for everyone involved. We can’t wait to capture some great memories with your students!

Best regards,

Victor O’Neill Studios

https://www.vosphoto.com/underclasstimeline

Harvest Parade Details

When: October 31, 9:45am-10:30am 

Where: Floris Field

What: Students have the option to dress in a school appropriate costume for this seasonal parade. Accessories that would be carried should stay at home to prevent the chance of losing them. Look alike weapons (ex. toy gun with police costume, sword with pirate, etc.), masks, and blood are not allowed. 

How: Students and parents will be outside, and students will parade by grade level. Please see map below. The blue smiley faces are the students, and the yellow are the parents. The arrows show the parade direction. Kindergarten will start the parade. 

Parents: You should report directly to the field. Parents should not enter the building for the parade. 

Parent Session With the Clinical Team:

Book discussion and tips for managing technology use at home

You are invited to join us from 12:00-1:00 on Friday November 22nd to review recent research on the impact of social media and other technology use on developing minds and to discuss strategies for limiting use. Reading the book is recommended but not required to join this discussion (we have a few copies available to borrow).

Willa McGrath, FCPS technology specialist, will be joining us to provide some practical recommendations on how to protect students from harmful online exposure. Please RSVP to Maggie Seneca, [email protected]. If there is enough interest, an evening session will be offered on Thursday November 21st at 7:00 p.m.

🍽️ National School Lunch Week

Multiple studies show that school lunches are important in supporting overall student health by improving students’ diets and combating food insecurity. Students who eat school lunches consume more fruit, vegetables, and fiber than their peers. 

This School Lunch Week, FCPS Food and Nutrition Services reminds families that they are dedicated to providing flavorful, healthy, sustainable, and student-focused meals. Also, new menu items have been launched this year based on student feedback. 

Want to know what’s for breakfast or lunch? Nutrition Services now has printable menus.

Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students 

Safeway Pharmacy will be providing immunizations at Frost Middle School for all FCPS students at no cost on: 

• Monday, October 28, 3-7 p.m.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students under the age of 19 to provide consent. Learn more about immunization resources and registering in other languages for the Safeway clinic.

Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

Health Information and Emergency Care Forms

The Health Information Form (HIF) (SS/SE-71) and the Emergency Care Information form (SS/SE-3) provide valuable information regarding student health conditions. These forms are critical in the early identification of students who may need healthcare support in the educational environment. Along with the development of Healthcare Plans (HCP) and Action Plans, the Public Health Nurses (PHNs) utilize the information contained in the HIF to develop teaching strategies for FCPS staff in order to meet the requirements of Regulation 2104 Health Services-School Health-Related Needs.

These forms are required for all students. Enrolling parents/guardians who have a SIS ParentVUE account may submit them electronically by using the Online Verification/Update packet. 

For families without SIS ParentVue accounts, forms can be located in the Back to School packets and on the General Registration Forms page. 

Advanced Academic Services Information 

Thank you to the families who attended our information session on September 30th.  For those that were unable to attend, please find the presentation linked, here on our Floris webpage.

Upcoming Screening Information for Full-Time AAP Services

If you are interested in referring your child for Full-Time AAP services for the 25-26 School Year (Grades 2-6 only), please submit the required Full-Time AAP Referral Form and optional Parent/Guardian Questionnaire to Amy Albanese [email protected]  (Grades 3,5) or Katie Pickett [email protected] (grades 2, 4, 6) by no later than December 15, 2024.

For families interested in learning more about the screening process for full-time advanced academics, we will be hosting an information session about this process on Monday, November 18th at 6PM.  This information session will be virtual (link to follow). 

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Monday, October 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School.

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

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Learn About Lexia for Literacy
• Schools Win Exemplar Awards
• Upcoming Community Conversations

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Dates for the 2024-2025 School Year 

October 18: Grades 3-6 Field Day

October 22: Fall Picture Day

October 25: PTA Bingo Night

October 28: 3-hour early release

October 30: PTA Trunk or Treat, 6:30pm

October 31: Harvest Parade, End of First Quarter and Two-Hour Early Release

November 1: Holiday, Diwali-  All FCPS schools and offices closed

November 4-5: No School for Students, School Planning Day and Teacher Workday

November 11: Holiday, Veterans' Day

November 15: PTA Spirit Ball

November 20: PTA Meeting, 6:30pm

November 21: Thanksgiving Lunch

November 22: Clinical Team Book Talk

November 27-29: Holiday, Thanksgiving

December 4: Picture Makeup Day

December 9: 3-hour early release

December 23- January 3: Holiday, Winter Break

Find the 2024-2025 School Year Calendar: https://www.fcps.edu/calendars/standard-school-year-calendar

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

🎃Trunk or Treat Fun🎃

Exciting news!  Our awesome PTA has scheduled so many fun events for our students, including a Trunk or Treat, which is right around the corner! 

🤷‍♀️What is a trunk or treat?

An opportunity for the Floris community to get together to dress up and go trick- or-treating in the safety of the Floris parking lot, from trunk to trunk.  There will also be games and live music!

⏰When is it?

Wednesday, October 30th from 6:30-7:30pm

📋What do I need to do?

If you're planning to attend, please register here!

 

We Need Your Help!

We're hoping for a great community turnout, but we need your help to make it as successful as possible!

🚗Decorate Your Trunk🚗

Decorate your trunk and help pass candy out to our trick-or-treaters!  You can either fill out the form below or register online here.  You can also check out further details in the flyer below.

🍭Donate Candy 🍭

Provide some packaged candy for our trunk or treat event!  There is an adorable candy monster in the front office gobbling up the collections.  If you're sending candy with students to class, please make sure to donate it by October 25th.

Thank you, and let’s have a scary good time!!!

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

In This Message: 

• Principals' Message
• PTA News and Announcements
• Grades 3-6 Field Day Next Friday
• School Picture Day
• Social Studies Basal Review
• Immunization Clinics
• Advanced Academics Information
• Strategic Plan
• Community Conversations
• District News/ In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)
• Upcoming Dates   

Principals' Message 

Hello Floris Families!

We had another wonderful week of learning at Floris! The return of sunshine has brought renewed energy to our building, and our students thoroughly enjoyed their time at recess.

As a reminder, Monday is a school planning day. It's hard to believe we're already nearing the end of the first quarter! Your child’s teacher will be reaching out soon to schedule first quarter conferences. During these meetings, we’ll discuss your child's social, emotional, and academic progress at Floris. We’re excited to share all the successes and our plans to support your child's growth throughout the school year.

Wishing you a beautiful weekend! We look forward to seeing everyone next week!

Sincerely,

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Rob Gibbs, Assistant Principal

PTA News and Announcements 👉Join the PTA! 👈

• A heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers who made the Fun Run a success! The event was truly wonderful, but it wouldn’t have been possible without the countless hours of behind-the-scenes effort. We are so grateful to have such a dedicated and supportive community. Thank you all!

Join us next Wednesday, October 16 at 6:30 PM in the Library for the October PTA Meeting. We have a lot to discuss and vote on regarding our new funds.

Bingo Night is coming! Save-the-date for October 25. Register to attend! There is a capacity limit.

 

Check out all of our October events below:

Grades 3-6 Field Day

Our physical education teachers, Mr. Barber and Mr. Morales, are excited to team up with our teachers and parent volunteers to host a field day for students in grades 3, 4, 5, and 6 on Friday, October 18. This field day is about collaboration, team-building, sportsmanship, and FUN! This is a special opportunity to build community within our classrooms and grade-levels.

Be on the lookout for a message for our 3rd-6th grade families TOMORROW to go over the specifics of this fun event, including volunteer opportunities to support the activities for field day.

Please also make a mental note that our Kindergarten-2nd grade students will have their Field Day in the spring. Thank you for your support and understanding with this event and we look forward to welcoming our families on October 31 for our annual Harvest Parade!

📸School Picture Day is Coming!📸

📅 Date: Tuesday, October 22, 2024🛒

Pre-order Online: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001139210#login

📸 Images Available: Approximately two-three weeks after picture day

📧 Questions about Ordering? Email us at [email protected]

Thank you so much for your help in making Picture Day a fantastic experience for everyone involved. We can’t wait to capture some great memories with your students!

 

Best regards,

Victor O’Neill Studios

https://www.vosphoto.com/underclasstimeline

📚 Social Studies Basal Resources Review

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

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

Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students 

Safeway Pharmacy will be providing immunizations at Frost Middle School for all FCPS students at no cost on: 

• Tuesday, October 8, 3-7 p.m.
• Saturday, October 12, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Monday, October 28, 3-7 p.m.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students under the age of 19 to provide consent. Learn more about immunization resources and registering in other languages for the Safeway clinic.

Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

Advanced Academic Services Information 

Thank you to the families who attended our information session on September 30th.  For those that were unable to attend, please find the presentation linked, here on our Floris webpage.

Upcoming Screening Information for Full-Time AAP Services

If you are interested in referring your child for Full-Time AAP services for the 25-26 School Year (Grades 2-6 only), please submit the required Full-Time AAP Referral Form and optional Parent/Guardian Questionnaire to Amy Albanese [email protected]  (Grades 3,5) or Katie Pickett [email protected] (grades 2, 4, 6) by no later than December 15, 2024.

(For families that are new to FCPS and interested in full-time services for the current school year, Full-Time Referral Forms - Grades 3-6 only, are due to the AARTs by no later than October 15, 2024.)

For families interested in learning more about the screening process for full-time advanced academics, we will be hosting an information session about this process on Monday, November 18th at 6PM.  This information session will be virtual (link to follow). 

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

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. 

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

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Monday, October 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Fairhill Elementary School.
• Monday, October 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School.

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

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

FCPS News: In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• All FCPS Schools Accredited
• How FCPS Is Teaching Reading and Writing
• Become a Special Education Teacher

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Dates for the 2024-2025 School Year 

October 14: No School for Students, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Staff Development Day

October 16: PTA Meeting, 6:30pm

October 18: Grades 3-6 Field Day

October 22: Fall Picture Day

October 25: PTA Bingo Night

October 28: 3-hour early release

October 30: PTA Trunk or Treat, 6:30pm

October 31: Harvest Parade, End of First Quarter and Two-Hour Early Release

November 1: Holiday, Diwali-  All FCPS schools and offices closed

November 4-5: No School for Students, School Planning Day and Teacher Workday

November 11: Holiday, Veterans' Day

November 15: PTA Spirit Ball

November 20: PTA Meeting, 6:30pm

November 27-29: Holiday, Thanksgiving

December 4: Picture Makeup Day

December 9: 3-hour early release

December 23- January 3: Holiday, Winter Break

Find the 2024-2025 School Year Calendar: https://www.fcps.edu/calendars/standard-school-year-calendar

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

In This Message: 

• Principals' Message
• Rosh Hashanah
• PTA News and Announcements
• School Picture Day
• Advanced Academics Information
• Attendance
• Strategic Plan
• Community Conversations
• District News/ In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)
• Upcoming Dates   

Principals' Message

Dear Floris Families,

We want to thank you to everyone who participated in our recent school fun run! It was a joy to see students from every grade level enjoying themselves as they ran, had some delicious popsicles, and listened to great music.

A special thank you goes out to our dedicated volunteers who helped make this event such a success. Your support truly made a difference! We also want to thank our amazing PTA for their continued support and efforts in organizing this fun-filled day. 

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend!

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Rob Gibbs, Assistant Principal

 

Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown today,  Wednesday, October 2. That day is an evening-only observance day. Important events will not be held after school. 

Thursday, October 3, is a holiday for all FCPS staff. Schools and offices will be closed. 

Friday, October 4, is a teacher workday and there will be no school for students. 

See the complete school year calendar.

PTA News and Announcements 👉Join the PTA! 👈

• JOIN MathCounts! 6th Grade (only) students can register here. Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions. Meetings will be Friday morning, 8am-9am.

• 4th-6th graders can JOIN Math Olympiad! Team meetings will be held on Wednesdays from 4:15pm - 5:15pm in the Floris Cafeteria starting October 2nd, 2024. Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions.

• We need parents to Volunteer on October 26 for VASO Division A events!

• Looking for an Early Release Camp? Sign up for Magnus Chess's 3-hour camp from 1-4PM at Floris Elementary. Offered on the 7 early-release days. 

📸School Picture Day is Coming!📸

📅 Date: Tuesday, October 22, 2024🛒

Pre-order Online: https://vando.imagequix.com/g1001139210#login

📸 Images Available: Approximately two-three weeks after picture day

📧 Questions about Ordering? Email us at [email protected]

Thank you so much for your help in making Picture Day a fantastic experience for everyone involved. We can’t wait to capture some great memories with your students!

Best regards,

Victor O’Neill Studios

https://www.vosphoto.com/underclasstimeline

Advanced Academic Services Information 

Thank you to the families who attended our information session on September 30th.  For those that were unable to attend, please find the presentation linked, here on our Floris webpage.

Upcoming Screening Information for Full-Time AAP Services

If you are interested in referring your child for Full-Time AAP services for the 25-26 School Year (Grades 2-6 only), please submit the required Full-Time AAP Referral Form and optional Parent/Guardian Questionnaire to Amy Albanese [email protected]  (Grades 3,5) or Katie Pickett [email protected] (grades 2, 4, 6) by no later than December 15, 2024.

(For families that are new to FCPS and interested in full-time services for the current school year, Full-Time Referral Forms - Grades 3-6 only, are due to the AARTs by no later than October 15, 2024.)

For families interested in learning more about the screening process for full-time advanced academics, we will be hosting an information session about this process on Monday, November 18th at 6PM.  This information session will be virtual (link to follow). 

🗓️ Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

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

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

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

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

✨The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 4: Equitable Access to Opportunities

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. 

The fourth goal ensures all students have the same access to opportunities, no matter what school they attend. This includes academics and other programs that inspire and engage students and allow them to explore their passions and talents. See how Goal 4 is being put into practice.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Monday, October 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Fairhill Elementary School.
• Monday, October 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School.

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

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

FCPS News: In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• FCPS Wants to Further Support Military Families
• Sign and Return SR&R
• Upcoming Immunization Clinics

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today

Dates for the 2024-2025 School Year 

October 3: Holiday, Rosh Hashanah – All FCPS schools and offices closed

October 4: No School for Students, Teacher Workday

October 14: No School for Students, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Staff Development Day

October 16: PTA Meeting, 6:30pm

October 18: Grades 3-6 Field Day

October 22: Fall Picture Day

October 25: PTA Bingo Night

October 28: 3-hour early release

October 30: PTA Trunk or Treat, 6:30pm

October 31: Harvest Parade, End of First Quarter and Two-Hour Early Release

November 1: Holiday, Diwali-  All FCPS schools and offices closed

November 4-5: No School for Students, School Planning Day and Teacher Workday

November 11: Holiday, Veterans' Day

November 15: PTA Spirit Ball

November 20: PTA Meeting, 6:30pm

November 27-29: Holiday, Thanksgiving

December 4: Picture Makeup Day

December 9: 3-hour early release

December 23- January 3: Holiday, Winter Break

Find the 2024-2025 School Year Calendar: https://www.fcps.edu/calendars/standard-school-year-calendar

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Super News!

Don't forget that our superhero fun run and spirit day will be TOMORROW, Wednesday, October 2nd!  After over a week of rain, it will be a bit soggy, but currently it doesn't look like it will be actively raining during our event.  We can't wait to help everyone celebrate the awesome work of the fundraiser!

Each grade level has a 30-minute time slot for students to participate in the run. See the schedule either above or below if you cannot access the image:

• 2nd grade: 9:45-10:15 AM
• 3rd grade: 10:35-11:05 AM
• Kindergarten: 11:20-11:50 AM
• 1st grade: 12:05-12:35 PM
• 5th grade: 1:40-2:10 PM
• 6th grade: 2:20-2:50 PM
• 4th grade: 3:00-3:30 PM

Guidelines for Enjoying the Superhero Fun Run

We are pleased to invite those who can attend during the grade-level Fun Runs. In doing so, please help make this an enjoyable and safe event by following these pointers:

Arrival: 

Please aim to arrive about 5 minutes before your child’s grade level runs. There is no need to arrive any earlier since there is a 10-minute transition scheduled between grade levels.

Parking:

Space is always limited, and any school parking spots will not be available until after student and staff morning arrival (9:25). Spectators are encouraged to carpool or walk if they are within walking distance.

Location:

Guests will walk directly to the event taking place on the back fields beyond the playground at the rear of the building. Please enter through either the back walking entrance off Mustang Drive or through our Kiss and Ride parking lot.

Spectating Area:

Like the annual fall Harvest Parade, visitors will not be required to check-in at the main office. Instead, we will maintain student safety by keeping our adults in a designated area of the field while our students participate. Floris staff will be present to supervise throughout the event along with PTA volunteers.

Departure:

Once you’ve cheered for the kids and the grade-level event is over, please exit in a timely manner so that the next set of family members can root for the next grade-level. Once again, parking is at a premium and you would be helping another. If you are contemplating an early dismissal for your child, please follow our normal early dismissal procedure by reporting a change by 3:30pm.  

Thank you, and let’s have a heroic event!!

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

 

In This Message: 

• Principals' Message
• PTA News and Announcements
• Attendance
• Strategic Plan
• Community Conversations
• Advanced Academics Services Information
• District News/ In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)
• Upcoming Dates   

Principals' Message 

Dear Floris Community,

We want to thank you for your incredible support in helping us achieve our fundraising goal of $30,000 and above! We are truly proud of what we’ve accomplished together, and these funds will enable us to create amazing opportunities for our students.

I’d also like to clarify that our change of plans for the Fun Run was intentional. We wanted to ensure this event is a memorable experience for both our students and the community. Rob and I are excited to dress up and run alongside our students—it’s going to be a fantastic day!

Thank you once again for your dedication and support. Together, we are making a difference!

 

Sincerely, 

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Robert Gibbs, Assistant Principal

PTA News and Announcements 👉Join the PTA! 👈

• FUN RUN: All donations are due TONIGHT at midnight!
• Sign-up to Volunteer while your child runs!
• Read FAQs and details here about watching your child run, what time they will run, dressing as the theme, etc.

We All Belong at School

Each one of us is unique, and every student matters. If your student is having a difficult time attending class, please speak with a trusted adult at school. 

Watch this video to see how everyone belongs at school. Visit our Attendance webpage for resources on attendance. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. 

Our third goal is for all students to achieve academic growth and excellence. We want our students to have the academic skills to be successful. For example, making sure they are readers by third grade and taking courses that challenge them throughout their education will help prepare them for lifelong success. See how Goal 3 is being put into practice.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

• Monday, September 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School.
• Monday, October 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Fairhill Elementary School.
• Monday, October 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School.

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

Advanced Academic Services Information 

We will be hosting a parent information session for Advanced Academic Program services (AAP) on Monday, September 30 at 6PM in the Floris Cafeteria.  Please join us to learn more about AAP services and the process for screening and identification.  We hope to see you there.

If you are interested in referring your child for Full-Time AAP services (Grades 3-6 only), and you are New to FCPS please submit the required Full-Time AAP Referral Form and optional Parent/Guardian Questionnaire to Amy Albanese [email protected]  (Grades 3,5) or Katie Pickett [email protected] (grades 2, 4, 6) by no later than October 15, 2024.

For families that are not new to FCPS, Full-Time Referral Forms (Grades 2-6 only) for the 25-26 school year are due to the AARTs by no later than December 15, 2024.

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

FCPS News: In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Accessing Intervention Plans
• Students to Be Surveyed on Social-Emotional Learning
• Update Immunizations Today! 

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Dates for the 2024-2025 School Year 

September 30: AAP Parent Info Session, 6:00pm in the cafeteria

October 2: PTA Fun Run

October 3: Holiday, Rosh Hashannah – All FCPS schools and offices closed

October 4: No School for Students, Teacher Workday

October 14: No School for Students, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Staff Development Day

October 18: Grades 3-6 Field Day

October 22: Fall Picture Day

October 28: 3-hour early release

October 30: PTA Trunk or Treat, 6:30pm

October 31: Harvest Parade, End of First Quarter and Two-Hour Early Release

November 1: Holiday, Diwali-  All FCPS schools and offices closed

November 4-5: No School for Students, School Planning Day and Teacher Workday

Find the 2024-2025 School Year Calendar: https://www.fcps.edu/calendars/standard-school-year-calendar

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Super News!

Our Superhero Fun Run PTA fundraiser officially ends tonight at midnight, and we've already exceeded our goal of raising $30,000!  This was no small feat, and the Floris community came together in an amazing way!  Thank you so much for all of your efforts.

Unfortunately, the weather has not been cooperating with our heroic plans, and we are rescheduling the run for Wednesday, October 2nd!  We would really like to give our community the opportunity to spectate and root on our little heroes. An outdoor event is the best way for students to have fun and allow any capes to blow freely in the wind.  

We are also rescheduling our superhero spirit day for Wednesday, October 2nd to coincide with the Fun Run event so we can see the superheroes in action.  See below:

 

Each grade level has a 30-minute time slot for students to participate in the run. See the schedule either above or below if you cannot access the image:

• 2nd grade: 9:45-10:15 AM
• 3rd grade: 10:35-11:05 AM
• Kindergarten: 11:20-11:50 AM
• 1st grade: 12:05-12:35 PM
• 5th grade: 1:40-2:10 PM
• 6th grade: 2:20-2:50 PM
• 4th grade: 3:00-3:30 PM

Guidelines for Enjoying the Superhero Fun Run

We are pleased to invite those who can attend during the grade-level Fun Runs. In doing so, please help make this an enjoyable and safe event by following these pointers:

Arrival: 

Please aim to arrive about 5 minutes before your child’s grade level runs. There is no need to arrive any earlier since there is a 10-minute transition scheduled between grade levels.

Parking:

Space is always limited, and any school parking spots will not be available until after student and staff morning arrival (9:25). Spectators are encouraged to carpool or walk if they are within walking distance.

Location:

Guests will walk directly to the event taking place on the back fields beyond the playground at the rear of the building. Please enter through either the back walking entrance off Mustang Drive or through our Kiss and Ride parking lot.

Spectating Area:

Like the annual fall Harvest Parade, visitors will not be required to check-in at the main office. Instead, we will maintain student safety by keeping our adults in a designated area of the field while our students participate. Floris staff will be present to supervise throughout the event along with PTA volunteers.

Departure:

Once you’ve cheered for the kids and the grade-level event is over, please exit in a timely manner so that the next set of family members can root for the next grade-level. Once again, parking is at a premium and you would be helping another. If you are contemplating an early dismissal for your child, please follow our normal early dismissal procedure by reporting a change by 3:30pm.  

Thank you, and let’s have a heroic event!!

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

 Early Release Monday Information

This is a reminder that our first early release Monday is coming up this coming Monday, September 23rd.  We need your continued support to ensure that your child(ren) are aware of their after school plans.  Please double check that your classroom teacher is aware of these plans and/or communicate any dismissal changes with them directly.  On Monday morning, we will be verifying student dismissal plans with teachers to ensure a smooth dismissal process for all students.  Some important things to note:

• There will be two dismissals: One beginning at 1:00pm for students going home early and one at 4:00pm for students who required supervision.
• If your child is staying until 4:00pm, please do not pick them up early, unless it is an emergency. 
• Communicate any changes in dismissal directly to your child's teacher by 10:00am.
• If early release dismissal plans have not been confirmed, Floris will err on the side of caution and keep your child at school until 4:00pm.

Thank you for continued support and collaboration.  We appreciate your willingness to help us plan this first Early Release Monday.

 

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

 

In This Message: 

• Principals' Message About Early Release Monday
• PTA News and Announcements
• Caregiver Checklist
• Strategic Plan
• Community Conversations
• Advanced Academics Services Information
• District News/ In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)
• Upcoming Dates   

Principals' Message About Early Release Monday

This is a reminder that our first early release Monday is coming up this coming Monday, September 23rd.  We need your continued support to ensure that your child(ren) are aware of their after school plans.  Please double check that your classroom teacher is aware of these plans and/or communicate any dismissal changes with them directly.  On Monday morning, we will be verifying student dismissal plans with teachers to ensure a smooth dismissal process for all students.  Some important things to note:

• There will be two dismissals: One beginning at 1:00pm for students going home early and one at 4:00pm for students who required supervision.
• If your child is staying until 4:00pm, please do not pick them up early, unless it is an emergency. 
• Communicate any changes in dismissal directly to your child's teacher by 10:00am.
• If early release dismissal plans have not been confirmed, Floris will err on the side of caution and keep your child at school until 4:00pm.
• SACC will not be hosting students until 4:00pm on this first early release. 

Thank you for continued support and collaboration.  We appreciate your willingness to help us plan this first Early Release Monday.

 

Thank you, 

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Robert Gibbs, Assistant Principal

PTA News and Announcements 👉Join the PTA! 👈

• FUN RUN: Sign-up a student!
  • Sign-up to Volunteer while your child runs!
  • Read more information here about the fundraiser.
  • We are getting close to our GOAL of $30,000! We can do this!
• JOIN MathCounts! 6th Grade (only) students can register here. Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions. Meetings will be Friday morning, 8am-9am.

• 4th-6th graders can JOIN Math Olympiad! Team meetings will be held on Wednesdays from 4:15pm - 5:15pm in the Floris Cafeteria starting October 2nd, 2024. Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions.

• We need parents to Volunteer on October 26 for VASO Division A events!

• Looking for an Early Release Camp? Sign up for Magnus Chess's 3-hour camp from 1-4PM at Floris Elementary. Offered on the 7 early-release days. 

✔️ Parent/Caregiver Checklist: Have You Completed These Important Forms?

We understand that the multiple school forms caregivers receive during the first weeks of school can feel overwhelming, but each one helps set your child up for a successful school year! If you do not have a SIS ParentVUE account, please contact your child’s school for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage. 

🩹 Immunization Requirements 

Please check with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school. 

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to your school’s front office. 

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided to your school’s front office, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:  

• A healthcare provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
• A healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
• A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations. 

📋 Permission Forms

Families can easily grant permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. Parents can opt their child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. They can also change how student information is managed.Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. Watch this video to see how to use the tool. 

Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)

The SR&R document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when logging in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage. This form should be signed and returned by Friday, September 30.

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, Empowered

The Office of Food and Nutrition Services' updates to lunch menus align with FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal #2 - Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered. The new menu options reflect the many voices and cultures represented around every FCPS lunch table!

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. 

As part of the second goal, we want each and every student to feel like they belong and have the support they need to thrive. See how Goal 2 is being put into practice.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation! 

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. 

The next event is scheduled for Monday, September 23, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Newington Forest Elementary School. Click on the date to register. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

Advanced Academic Services Information 

We will be hosting a parent information session for Advanced Academic Program services (AAP) on Monday, September 30 at 6PM in the Floris Cafeteria.  Please join us to learn more about AAP services and the process for screening and identification.  We hope to see you there.

If you are interested in referring your child for Full-Time AAP services (Grades 3-6 only), and you are New to FCPS please submit the required Full-Time AAP Referral Form and optional Parent/Guardian Questionnaire to Amy Albanese [email protected]  (Grades 3,5) or Katie Pickett [email protected] (grades 2, 4, 6) by no later than October 15, 2024.

For families that are not new to FCPS, Full-Time Referral Forms (Grades 2-6 only) for the 25-26 school year are due to the AARTs by no later than December 15, 2024.

District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)

FCPS NewsIn case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

• Caregiver Checklist
• New Food Options at FCPS
• Early Release Mondays at Elementary Schools

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today. 

Dates for the 2024-2025 School Year 

September 23: 3-hour early release

September 27: PTA Fun Run

September 30: AAP Parent Info Session, 6:00pm in the cafeteria

October 3: Holiday, Rosh Hashannah – All FCPS schools and offices closed

October 4: No School for Students, Teacher Workday

October 14: No School for Students, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Staff Development Day

October 18: Grades 3-6 Field Day

October 21-25: Book Fair

October 22: Fall Picture Day

October 28: 3-hour early release

October 30: PTA Trunk or Treat, 6:30pm

October 31: Harvest Parade, End of First Quarter and Two-Hour Early Release

November 4-5: No School for Students, School Planning Day and Teacher Workday

Find the 2024-2025 School Year Calendar: https://www.fcps.edu/calendars/standard-school-year-calendar

2708 Centreville Road, Herndon, VA 20171 | Main Office: 703-561-2900
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