FCPS

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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
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

We kicked off our Superhero Fun Run fundraiser in style with our PTA pep rallies on Friday afternoon!  You may have noticed that your child came home with a QR code sticker.  If you don't have it anymore, have no fear-- you can sign up using the link below!  Keep scrolling for more details on this amazing PTA-run event. 

We've also planned the following spirit days to help pep up our fun run next week:

🔗SIGN YOUR STUDENT UP!🔗

The Floris Elementary Superhero Fun Run is a two-week, school-wide fundraiser which gives our students the opportunity to have fun, be active, and lead the way in raising money for their school. The Fun Run is on Friday, September 27! 100% of all donations will directly support the PTA’s Annual Budget and the school’s Library Furniture Upgrade. We encourage all students to share their individual links with family and friends.

 

What is our fundraising goal? $30,000

(All donations are tax deductible)

Will there be incentives and prizes?

Yes! There will be wristband prizes based on the amount of money each child raises and effort they put into participating. Prizes will be handed out on Tuesdays and Thursdays over the course of the fundraising period.

• RAINBOW wristband - For attending the Kick-off Pep Rally
• BLUE wristband – For registering
• PURPLE wristband– For raising $25
• GREEN wristband– For raising $75
• YELLOW wristband – For raising $150
• SILVER wristband– For raising $250 or more

 

• In addition to wristbands, the top individual earner in every classroom will earn a 🍕VIP Pizza Party!🍕
• The grade level that raises the most money will get 🛝extra recess!🛝
• All classes who have 100% FUN earn 🍧popsicles🍧 at the conclusion of the Fun Run!
• If the whole school raises $30,000, then all students will vote on a costume that Mr. DeSmyter and Mr. Gibbs will have to wear for the Harvest Parade.

⏰When will my child run?⏰

Each grade level has a 30-minute time slot for students to participate in the run. See the schedule below:

• 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

Stay tuned for more information about the events coming up next week so you can stay in the loop.  Thank you so much for your continued support!  

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

Dear Floris Families,

We are thrilled to extend a special invitation for you to join your child for lunch starting Monday, September 30th! This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with your child and experience a slice of their school day.

For safety and security, please bring a valid ID and check in at the visitor station upon arrival. To ensure a smooth experience for everyone, the number of visitors is limited to two adults per child. If you arrive early, please wait in the front lobby and do not enter the building until your designated lunch time.

Please note the following guidelines:

• No food sharing or candy is allowed.
• For privacy reasons, we request that you do not take photos of other children.

Here is our lunch schedule for your reference:

• Kindergarten: 1:40 pm - 2:10 pm
• First Grade: 1:05 pm - 1:35 pm
• Second Grade: 11:35 am - 12:05 pm
• Third Grade: 1:20 pm - 1:50 pm
• Fourth Grade: 11:05 am - 11:35 am
• Fifth Grade: 12:05 pm - 12:35 pm
• Sixth Grade: 12:35 pm - 1:05 pm

We can’t wait to share these special moments with you and create lasting memories together!

Sincerely,

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Rob Gibbs, Assistant Principal

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

 

In This Message: 

• Principals' Message
• PTA News and Announcements
• Attendance Information
• Student Rights and Responsibilities
• Strategic Plan
• Immunization Requirements
• Advanced Academics Services Information
• District News/ In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)
• Upcoming Dates   

Principals' Message

Dear Floris Families,

We've had another fantastic week of learning and growth for our students!  As we gear up for an exciting event, we're thrilled to announce the PTA Superhero Pep Rally, which will kick off our Fundraiser tomorrow. It’s going to be a blast, and we can’t wait to see everyone’s superhero spirit!

A quick reminder: if you haven't yet informed your child's teacher about their transportation arrangements for our first early release day on September 23rd, please reach out as soon as possible. This will help ensure a smooth transition and keep everything running efficiently.

Thank you for your continued support and involvement! 

Sincerely,

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Rob Gibbs, Assistant Principal

PTA News and Announcements 👉Join the PTA! 👈

• JOIN MathCounts! 6th Grade students can register here. Please reach-out to Michael Stabler ([email protected]) with any questions.
• 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.

The Superhero Fun Run kicks off tomorrow! 🍎 Make Every Day Count! The Importance of Attendance

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during breaks from school. 

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.

Learn how families can help form good attendance habits.

2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities 

FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities document (SR&R) explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. Read Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid’s letter to families regarding the SR&R. 

Parents/caregivers should talk to their child(ren) about expectations for this school year. Also, please log in to SIS ParentVUE and sign to acknowledge your review of the SR&R, or sign and return the signature sheet to your child’s school by Monday, September 30. 

You can submit questions online regarding the SR&R.

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 1: Strong Start, Pre-K-12

The 2023-30 strategic plan sets five main goals to create positive change in FCPS. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. 

Each goal has an equity commitment — the promise we make to every student to support them in attaining these goals. Each goal also has several measures that allow us to track our progress.

The first goal in the strategic plan focuses on each and every student having a strong start in FCPS. Whether they're joining us in preschool or in high school, we want our students to be set up for success.

See how Goal 1 is being put into practice.

🩹 Immunization Requirements 

Please check with your health care 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 health care provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
• A health care 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 their religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations.

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:

• Immunization Reminder
• Make Attendance a Priority
• How Is FCPS’ Redesigned Website Working for You?

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
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Hurry!  Registration Closes Tomorrow! 🔗Register for Enrichment Classes Here 🔗 Check out the Class Descriptions and Pricing Information Below:

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
• Lunch Visitors
• PTA News and Announcements
• Student Rights and Responsibilities
• Strategic Plan
• Safety Drills
• Community Conversations
• SIS ParentVUE
• Advanced Academics Services Information
• Immunizations and Records Updates
• Upcoming Dates   

Principals' Message

Dear Floris Families,

We hope you're having a fantastic week! We wanted to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for the PTA Popsicles with the Principals event. Thank you to our PTA for hosting and ensuring our students had a blast enjoying their time playing on the playground and getting their faces painted. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect, enjoy some sweet treats, and spend quality time together as a community.

Your involvement and enthusiasm make all the difference, and we're grateful for the support and engagement from each of you. Here’s to another great week of learning and fun!

Sincerely,

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Rob Gibbs, Assistant Principal

 

PTA News and Announcements 👉Join the PTA! 👈

• We need VASO and MATHCOUNTS coaches. If you are interested, please reach-out to Michael Stabler ([email protected]).

👉CLASS REGISTRATION IS OPEN👈

View class descriptions and prices here.

  Order your spirit wear today:

https://floris24.itemorder.com

Sale ends Friday, 9/6 (tomorrow)!

2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities 

FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities document (SR&R) explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. Read Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid’s letter to families regarding the SR&R. 

Parents/caregivers should talk to their child(ren) about expectations for this school year. Also, please log in to SIS ParentVUE and sign to acknowledge your review of the SR&R, or sign and return the signature sheet to your child’s school by Monday, September 30. 

You can submit questions online regarding the SR&R.

✨ 2023-30 Strategic Plan: Foundation of Four Pillars

• While the five goals of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan focus on student success, the four pillars describe what FCPS must do well to reach our goals for all students:

• The first focus of the pillars is on teaching and learning. We want to make sure each and every student has access to excellent and inclusive learning environments, and that instruction meets students’ individual needs.
• The second pillar focuses on our connection with families and our communities. We cannot do this work alone. Strong partnerships are key to our students’ success.
• The third pillar is centered on our hiring and maintaining a world class, diverse workforce. We want to make sure our incredible employees have what they need to help our students thrive.
• The fourth and final pillar centers on how we bring this all together. We remain focused on creating a culture of equity, excellence, and accountability where data guides our decisions. 

Visit our Strategic Plan webpage for more information.

Safety Drills During the School Year

Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for FCPS. Each school has an emergency preparedness plan to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Schools are required by state law to practice emergency drills, including lockdown drills, each year. Schools are also required to notify parents and guardians at least 24 hours before a school conducts a lockdown drill. However, schools are not required to give the specific date and time of the drill in advance. 

The first lockdown drill of the school year must take place within the first 20 days of school. Preschool and kindergarten students are exempt from practicing the first lockdown drill. 

Your child may come home and talk about their experience during the drill. We encourage you to talk with your child about the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Please review these frequently asked questions to support your students before and after school lockdown drills.

⚠️ Know Our Security Terms

FCPS uses specific terminology to describe the actions school staff and students should take to ensure safety in a variety of situations. It is important for staff, families, and students to understand what the different terms mean and how they impact school operations.

Watch this video to learn about safety terms including lockdown; secure the building; and stay put, stay tuned. 

If students, staff, or community members have a safety concern at school (that is not an immediate emergency), they should submit a tip to the FCPS Safety Tipline. In an emergency, please call 9-1-1.  

🎤 Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid invites you to share your questions or concerns regarding Fairfax County Public Schools. Your voice matters! Community Conversations will be held this Fall 6:30-7:30 p.m. on:

• Monday, September 9, at Holmes Middle School 
• Monday, September 23, at Newington Forest Elementary
• Monday, September 30, at Mount Vernon Woods Elementary 
• Monday, October 14, at Fairhill Elementary 
• Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary 
• Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle 

Click the date above to register. Registration is not required but helps with planning. Additional registration links will be shared in next week’s This Week at FCPS. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.

Everything You Can Do Through SIS ParentVUE:

Want to easily access back-to-school forms and checklists? Log in to your SIS ParentVUE account to find forms and make updates.

• Update Contact Information

Be among the first to know about weather closings, bus delays, and other critical communications from your school and FCPS by providing your cell phone number and email in SIS ParentVUE. To update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, click the “Online Packets” tab in the upper right of the screen, then click the “Online Verification/Update” icon. 

Parents/caregivers who do not have a SIS ParentVUE account should print and complete the Emergency Care Information Form (PDF) and submit it to their child’s school.

• Complete Permission Forms

Families can now easily give permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. This online tool can be accessed using your SIS ParentVUE account. Parents can easily 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. 

• Submit Absences

Parents can submit daylong absences through SIS ParentVUE. Log in and click “Report Absence.” Note: Partial day absences and changes of transportation should still be reported directly to the school front office. 

Don’t Have a SIS ParentVUE Account Yet? Contact your school for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage.

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.

Update Your Child's Immunizations and Records

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

If your child needs a vaccine, please make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or access other local services. If needed, families may also provide other immunization documentation including a healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption or a notarized Religious Exemption Form. 

Find more information on immunizations on the FCPS website.

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
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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Registration is Now Open! 🔗Register for Enrichment Classes Here 🔗 Check out the Class Descriptions and Pricing Information Below:

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.

Fall Enrichment Class Offerings

Exciting news!  The PTA is partnering with a new program called Little Scholars to offer 8 weeks of enrichment classes this fall! 

Registration opens on Monday, September 2nd, which is also Labor Day.  We wanted to get this info to you now so you can check it out and plan for registering then!

Check out the Class Descriptions and Pricing Information Below:

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
• Strategic Plan Message from Dr. Reid
• SIS ParentVUE
• PTA News and Announcements
• Advanced Academics Services Information
• Opt-Out Annual Notice
• Immunizations and Records Updates
• Upcoming Dates   

Principals' Message

Dear Floris Families,

We had another wonderful week with our students engaged in high-quality instruction and building connections with their classmates and teachers. It’s heartening to see the smiles and enthusiasm for learning in our building.
Thank you so much for joining us for Back to School Nights! We hope you found the experience informative and enjoyed learning more about your child's educational journey at Floris.

As we approach our first 3-hour early release, please remember that students should follow their regular routes home. To ensure their safety, we ask that you communicate with your child’s homeroom teacher to confirm your plans. During this time, our instructional staff will be participating in professional development, so it’s crucial that we have an accurate count of families needing supervision due to hardship to plan accordingly.

Wishing you all a wonderful long weekend ahead! We look forward to seeing your children next week!

Sincerely,

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Rob Gibbs, Assistant Principal

✨ Our Commitment to Excellence, Equity, and Opportunity for Each and Every Student

As we begin a new school year, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid reminds us of the goals of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which guides us in delivering excellence, equity, and opportunity for each and every one of our students. Watch Dr. Reid’s message.

Everything You Can Do Through SIS ParentVUE:

Want to easily access back-to-school forms and checklists? Log in to your SIS ParentVUE account to find forms and make updates.

• Update Contact Information

Be among the first to know about weather closings, bus delays, and other critical communications from your school and FCPS by providing your cell phone number and email in SIS ParentVUE. To update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, click the “Online Packets” tab in the upper right of the screen, then click the “Online Verification/Update” icon. 

Parents/caregivers who do not have a SIS ParentVUE account should print and complete the Emergency Care Information Form (PDF) and submit it to their child’s school.

• Complete Permission Forms

Families can now easily give permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. This online tool can be accessed using your SIS ParentVUE account. Parents can easily 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. 

• Submit Absences

Parents can submit daylong absences through SIS ParentVUE. Log in and click “Report Absence.” Note: Partial day absences and changes of transportation should still be reported directly to the school front office. 

Don’t Have a SIS ParentVUE Account Yet? Contact your school for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage.

PTA News and Announcements

👉Join the PTA! 👈

👉Registration OPENS Monday, September 2👈

View class descriptions and prices here.

 

 

 

Order here:

https://floris24.itemorder.com

 

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.

Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights

Fairfax County Public Schools wants all parents and caregivers to understand its policies regarding surveys, records, curriculum, privacy, and related rights.

In its Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms (Annual Notice), FCPS provides explanations of the rights listed above as well as forms that may be used to exercise opt-out choices. Two versions of the Annual Notice are available: a grades K-8 version and a grades 9-12 version. Parents/caregivers with children at different grade levels should read each applicable version of the Annual Notice, because the notices and opt-out rights vary depending on the student’s grade level.

Get more information and view the 2024-25 Opt-Out Booklets. 

Update Your Child's Immunizations and Records

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

If your child needs a vaccine, please make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or access other local services. If needed, families may also provide other immunization documentation including a healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption or a notarized Religious Exemption Form. 

Find more information on immunizations on the FCPS website.

Dates for the 2024-2025 School Year 

August 30- September 2: Holiday- Labor Day Break – All FCPS schools and offices closed

September 4: Popsicles on the Playground, 6:30pm

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
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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

Back to School Night  Who: 

Parents and Guardians of students in K, 4th, and 6th grades 

When:

Wednesday, August 28, 6:15 pm 

What: 

• Back-to-School Night provides parents/guardians an opportunity to meet teachers and learn about classroom routines and the grade level curriculum. 
• Because time is very limited, Back-to-School Night is not an appropriate time to discuss an individual student’s progress.  

How and Where: Back-to-School-Night Schedule

⏰6:15: Door 6 (Cafeteria) will open for parents/guardians

• Staff will will be available to assist you with directions as needed.
• K, 4, and 6th grades in their classrooms 

⏰6:30-7:00 and 7:15-7:45 PM: Presentations by Teachers 

• Teachers will present to parents/guardians and share classroom expectations, curriculum overview, and opportunities for home/school connections.
• The sessions are identical presentations at 6:30 and 7:15. Having repeat sessions allows parents who have students in two different grade levels or classrooms to be able to attend. You should only attend one of the sessions for each class. 
• Please exit via Door 6 (cafeteria).

⏰6:15-6:30; 7:00-7:15: Opportunities in the cafeteria to meet and greet: 

• Administrators 
• Counselors  
• Specialists 
• PTA 

Parking and Entrance

• Please park in the side parking lot (by the blacktop/ playground/fire station)
• Enter through Door 6, through the cafeteria 

👉 You can find Back-to-School Night resources, as well as lots of other great information, in our Floris Parent Schoology Course.

🤷🏽‍♂️Unsure how to log into Schoology? Check out our Schoology Page to learn!

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.

Back to School Night  Who: 

Parents and Guardians of students in 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 5th grades 

When:

Tuesday, August 27, 6:15pm 

How and Where: Back-to-School-Night Schedule

⏰6:15: Door 6 (Cafeteria) will open for parents/guardians

• Staff will will be available to assist you with directions as needed.
• 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 5th grades in their classrooms 

⏰6:30-7:00 and 7:15-7:45 PM: Presentations by Teachers 

• Teachers will present to parents/guardians and share classroom expectations, curriculum overview, and opportunities for home/school connections.
• The sessions are identical presentations at 6:30 and 7:15. Having repeat sessions allows parents who have students in two different grade levels or classrooms to be able to attend. You should only attend one of the sessions for each class. 
• Please exit via Door 6 (cafeteria).

⏰6:15-6:30; 7:00-7:15: Opportunities in the cafeteria to meet and greet: 

• Administrators 
• Counselors  
• Specialists 
• PTA 

Parking and Entrance

• Please park in the side parking lot (by the blacktop/ playground/fire station)
• Enter through Door 6, through the cafeteria 

👉 You can find Back-to-School Night resources, as well as lots of other great information, in our Floris Parent Schoology Course.

🤷🏽‍♂️Unsure how to log into Schoology? Check out our Schoology Page to learn!

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.

Back to School Night Information

📆Tuesday, August 27, 6:15-7:45 pm for grades 1, 2, 3, and 5 📆

📆Wednesday, August 28, 6:15-7:45 pm for grades K, 4, and 6 📆 

Back-to-School Night provides parents an opportunity to meet teachers and learn about classroom routines and the grade level curriculum. This event is for Parents Only. Because time is very limited, Back-to-School Night is not an appropriate time to discuss an individual student’s progress.  

Welcome Back from Our School Board Members

The focus of Back to School Night is for you to hear about your children's classes from their teachers.  We will also have Floris administration and specialists available in person, and since they aren't able to be at every Back to School Night event, our school board members have recorded the following messages to welcome you to the 2024-2025 school year:

Melanie Meren, Hunter Mill District School Board Member 

Seema Dixit, Sully District School Board Member

Kyle McDaniel, At Large School Board Member 

Ryan McElveen, At Large School Board Member and Chair 

Ilryong Moon, At Large School Board Member and Chair 

Parking and Entrance

• Please park in the side parking lot (by the blacktop/ playground/fire station)

• Enter through Door 6, through the Cafeteria

👉 You can find Back-to-School Night resources, as well as lots of other great information, in our Floris Parent Schoology Course.

🤷🏽‍♂️Unsure how to log into Schoology? Check out our Schoology Page to learn!

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
• Back to School Nights 
• Digital Consent
• Submitting Attendance and Change in Dismissal
• Advanced Academics Services Information
• Opt-Out Annual Notice
• Immunizations and Records Updates
• Upcoming Dates   

Principals' Message

Dear Floris Elementary Community,

We’ve had a fantastic first week of school here at Floris Elementary! It’s been wonderful to see so many smiling faces and watch as our students dive into their new routines with enthusiasm. Mr. Gibbs and I have had the pleasure of visiting every classroom, and we’re thrilled to see such high-quality instruction happening right from the start. We hope your children are coming home excited about their experience at Floris already!

A special thank you to everyone who joined us for our first PTA meeting last night. We had a wonderful turnout and look forward to our future PTA meetings and celebrating our work together. Your support and involvement are greatly appreciated. We’re looking forward to connecting with more of our families at the upcoming Back to School Nights.

Enjoy your weekend, and we can’t wait to see what the rest of the school year brings!

Joshua DeSmyter, Principal

Rob Gibbs, Assistant Principal

Back to School Nights

📆Tuesday, August 27, 6:20-7:45 pm for grades 1, 2, 3, and 5 📆

📆Wednesday, August 28, 6:20-7:45 pm for grades K, 4, and 6 📆 

⏰6:20: Doors Open, Meet & Greet in Cafeteria

⏰6:30-7:00 Session 1 in Classrooms

⏰7:00-7:15 Meet & Greet in Cafeteria

⏰7:15-7:45 PM: Session 2 in Classrooms

👀Be on the lookout for a more detailed message tomorrow!👀

✅Fill Out Our Online Consent Forms✅

• Make sure you have a SIS ParentVUE account. If you do not have access to ParentVUE, please contact our School Information Assistant, Vernella Lanham at [email protected] or our School Based Technology Specialist, Willa McGrath at [email protected]. 
• Complete the digital consent forms for your child. You will use your ParentVUE username and password to login to the Parent Digital Consent. Here you will provide consent for your child to use many of our digital resources or opt out of a variety of FCPS services.
• Complete THIS FORM indicating your plan for our first two 3-hour early release Mondays on September 23 and October 28. This form must be completed for each child.

Thank you for your help in getting these done!

Submitting Attendance and Changes in Dismissal

Attendance reporting as changed!  

Full Day Absences: Report via ParentVUE

Early Dismissal and Temporary Change in Transportation: Report via this form

👉👉👉Still have questions?!  All of this is available on the Floris Webpage! Bookmark it to help  yourself out! 

For further information, including directions on how to use ParentVUE to report attendance, visit FCPS Attendance Reporting.

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.

Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights

Fairfax County Public Schools wants all parents and caregivers to understand its policies regarding surveys, records, curriculum, privacy, and related rights.

In its Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms (Annual Notice), FCPS provides explanations of the rights listed above as well as forms that may be used to exercise opt-out choices. Two versions of the Annual Notice are available: a grades K-8 version and a grades 9-12 version. Parents/caregivers with children at different grade levels should read each applicable version of the Annual Notice, because the notices and opt-out rights vary depending on the student’s grade level.

Get more information and view the 2024-25 Opt-Out Booklets. 

Update Your Child's Immunizations and Records

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

If your child needs a vaccine, please make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or access other local services. If needed, families may also provide other immunization documentation including a healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption or a notarized Religious Exemption Form. 

Find more information on immunizations on the FCPS website.

Dates for the 2024-2025 School Year 

August 27-28: Back to School Nights

August 30- September 2: Holiday- Labor Day Break – All FCPS schools and offices closed

September 4: Popsicles on the Playground, 6:30pm

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
Attendance: 703-561-2929 | Web | Twitter | Facebook

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August PTA Meeting Tomorrow Night  

When: Tomorrow, Wednesday, August 21st at 6:30pm

Agenda:

• Meet & Greet with Principal DeSmyter
• Board Member Introductions
• Discuss/Vote on the Annual PTA Budget

Where: Floris ES Cafeteria 

👉👉👉If you cannot join us in person, please join us via zoom:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/7397128158?pwd=QlNpT1d0ZFZ0U0RPQ3dzSFY0Ujk4UT09&omn=84518385187

Meeting ID:   739 712 8158

Security Code: 513378

 

👋See you tomorrow!👋

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:

• #FirstDayFairfax
• Arrival Information
• Breakfast and Lunch Information
• Dismissal Information

Share The First Day of School Fun!

FCPS parents, students, and staff members are invited to share their favorite pictures or videos from the first day of school on social media using the hashtag #FirstDayFairfax. We will share some of the photos on FCPS Facebook and Instagram. 

🦅We'd love to see our Floris eagles represented!  Make sure to tag Floris on Instagram and Facebook! 🦅

Arrival Buses

• Plan for potential delays and monitor your child’s bus arrival using the Here Comes the Bus Mobile App (your best resource for monitoring bus arrival times)
• Bus ridership is encouraged each day to ease congestion within our Kiss and Ride loop and ensure a timely arrival to school.
• Bus riders will enter Door 1 each morning

Kiss & Ride

• Vehicles should use West Ox Rd. to form a car line once the Kiss and Ride loop becomes full. 
• Please do not block the Fairfax Fire Department driveway on West Ox Rd. with your vehicle.
• Cutting into the car line off of Centreville Rd. and passing other vehicles in the Kiss & Ride loop are unsafe acts that put students and other families at risk.
• Do not drop your child off until 9 AM.
• After 9 AM, children within the “drop-off zone” may exit their vehicle
• Adults should remain in their vehicles to prevent traffic backup within the loop
• Staff and student patrols will guide students to Door 7 to enter the building

Walkers and Bicyclists

• Walkers and bicyclists will enter either Door 7 or Door 1 at 9 AM each morning 
• Students entering school grounds from Mustang Drive will collect at the basketball court outside Door 6 until 9 AM and then enter the building using Door 7.
• Students are expected to dismount from bikes and scooters as soon as they step onto school property.

Students Walking to Class 

We are excited to welcome students into the building on the first day of school and ask you say your goodbyes at the bus stop, school entrance, or from the car at Kiss & Ride.

Many staff members including our counselors, administrators, and specialists will be on hand to make sure students get to their classroom safely on the first day.

We will not have parents walking students to class in order to help build student independence and reinforce routines during arrival. Families had the opportunity to see the classroom and connect with the classroom teacher at Open House, and parents will also be able to connect with the teachers and see the rooms at Back to School Nights.

Breakfast and Lunch

• School breakfasts and lunches are provided at the following costs:
• Breakfast $1.75
• Lunch $3.25
• Milk $0.60
• Free & Reduced Meals are available for those who qualify
• Breakfast will be a paid Grab and Go from the cafeteria each morning.
• The salad bar will be available for lunch each day, beginning on the first day of school. 
• Please ensure your child has enough money added to their MySchoolBucks account to pay for breakfast and lunch each day.
• Students will be provided with their PIN numbers and adults will assist your children as needed.

Dismissal

Buses

• Door 1 will be used for bus pick-up only.
• All early dismissals or pick-ups should occur at Door 1 before 3:30 PM each day.
• Please ensure that you are using the Here Comes the Bus Mobile App to meet your child at their PM bus stop. 

• If a student’s bus is delayed, parents may access the Bus Delay Notification System or use the Here Comes the Bus mobile app to receive the delayed bus report.

• Email messages will be sent from transportation to announce significant bus delays. Contact the Transportation Office at 703-249-7000 with any additional questions. For any concerns after 5:30 p.m., contact Safety and Security at 571-423-2000.

• Kindergarten students must have a parent or guardian at the bus stop to receive them.

Kiss & Ride 

• Kiss and Ride families should observe the same traffic procedures as listed above for arrival.
• Kiss & Ride numbers should be displayed on the dashboard of your vehicle to ensure your child is ready for pickup before arriving in the “pick-up zone."
• Adults should remain in their vehicles.
• Once in the pick-up zone, your child will exit Door 6 from the cafeteria and arrive at your vehicle with staff and student patrol guidance.
• Please DO NOT park in the parking lot and approach Door 6 to retrieve your child.

Walkers and Bicyclists

• Walkers and bicyclists will be dismissed from cafeteria Door 6
• It is expected that bicycles and scooters are to be mounted off school grounds.

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