FCPS

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In this Friday Message you will find:

• Principals' Message  
• Floris Soaring Eagles 
• Spring Break is next week 
• Good Friday and Easter 
• AAP Spring Updates 
• Breakfast and Lunch Menus
• Spring 2024 SOL Schedules
• Upcoming Dates 

Floris Families,

What a fabulous week leading up to Spring Break. 

Kudos go out to our counselors, Sarah de Kramer and James Duffield, for the extra hours of planning and hard work that went into having a great Career Week. Thank you to all of the speakers who came to share with our students. We appreciate you!

It was fabulous to see so many young scientists at the Annual PTA Science Fair Wednesday evening. Thank you to the Floris PTA for their hard work on this event. Great job to everyone involved!

We look forward to seeing the class of 2037 at the Kindergarten Orientation on Tuesday, April 2, 9:00-9:45am in the cafe. Please enter through door 6. 

As a reminder, next week, March 25-29, is spring break. Schools and school offices will be closed. There is also no school for students on April 1-2, for the teacher workdays. Students will return to school on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. 

We hope everyone has a safe and relaxing break. See you on April 3rd!

Holly Walker, Principal, [email protected]

Rob Gibbs, Assistant Principal, [email protected]

#EveryEagleEveryDay

🌷Spring Break🌷

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

Next Friday, we recognize those in our community observing Good Friday.

Good Friday, the Friday before Easter, is the day on which Christians annually observe the commemoration of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Good Friday is a day of mourning. During special Good Friday services Christians meditate on Jesus's suffering and death on the cross, and what this means for their faith. Read more at Britannica.com. 

This year's Good Friday artwork was created by Chantilly High School student Summer S. On this day, Christians observe the commemoration of the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross for those who believe. #OurFCPS Summer’s artwork was designed as part of the FCPS Observance Design Challenge for Students. Learn more about the challenge: https://bit.ly/47oHw2j

A joyful Easter to all in our community who celebrate! The springtime celebration of Easter is the most important Christian holiday. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus, who sacrificed so that Christians may have life with God after death. Learn more about Easter in NatGeo Kids.

AAP Spring Updates 

Any families interested in referring their child for school-based AAP services for the 24-25 school year should submit a AAP School-Based Services (levels 2 and 3) Form to Amy Albanese (Grades K, 2, 4, 6) [email protected] and/or Katie Pickett (Grades K, 1, 3, 5) [email protected] by May 1, 2024.

School-based services include Subject-Specific Differentiation (Level 2) and Part-Time AAP services (Level 3).  Please read the attached document for more details on the levels of service. 

https://florises.fcps.edu/announcements/aap-spring-updates-and-newsletter

Floris Soaring Eagles

We have brought back our online tradition here at Floris that gives the community the opportunity to say thank you and/or show appreciation for all our staff do each day to make Floris amazing!

Floris Soaring Eagles are compliments, kudos, etc. that we will share with the staff. Just click HERE to access the Floris Soaring Eagle Google Form and share your appreciation. 

You can also recognize staff with the FCPS Cares.  The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

Please remember you can find the breakfast and lunch menus and nutritional facts at FCPS Nutrislice- Floris 

March 25-29:

• Spring Break 
• All FCPS Schools Closed 
• Floris Main Office Closed 

April 1:

• No School for Students
• Teacher Workday 

April 2: 

• No School for Students
• Staff Development Day 
• Kindergarten Orientation, 9:00-9:45am, cafe (enter via Door 6)

April 4: National School Librarian Day 

April 9: PTA Assemblies in the gym 

April 10: 

• Holiday- Eid al Fitr
• All FCPS schools and offices closed 

April 11: Book Fair Set-Up 

April 12-18: Book Fair

April 15: 5th grade IRW assessment 

April 16: Chorus Performance, cafe/stage 

April 17: 

• Book Fair Parent Buying, 5:00-8:00pm, library 
• PTA Meeting, 6:00-6:30pm, café 
• PTA International Night, 6:30-8:00pm, café and gym 

April 18: 

• 6th grade Field Trip- National Art Gallery 
• Westfield Pyramid Art Show 

April 19: 

• 6th grade Field Trip- National Art Gallery 
• 2nd grade In-House Field Trip 

April 24: 

• Administrative Professionals' Day 
• Observance Day- Theravada New Year 

April 26: Field Day for K-2nd- field and blacktop, 10:00am -12:00pm 

April 29: Rain date for Field Day for K-2nd- field and blacktop, 10:00am -12:00pm 

May 2: 

• 4th grade Strings Concert (details to follow)

• 5th-6th grade Strings Concert (details to follow) 

May 3: 

• Observance Day- Orthodox Good Friday 

• Teacher Workday 

• No School for Students 

May 7: Band Concert, 6:30pm, cafe, enter via Door 6 

 

 

Find the 2023-2024 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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  🗓️ SOL Testing Dates 🗓️ Our Spring Standards of Learning (SOL) tests are coming up in April & May.

These assessments measure the extent to which students have learned the content and skills reflected in state standards. The content tested varies by grade level. See below for the scheduled dates this Spring.

We have been advertising the dates in the Friday Message and this is just another avenue to share for families to be prepared. 

Grade 3:

• 📖 Reading: Tuesday, May 14 
• 🧮 Math: Friday, May 17

  Grade 4:

• 📖 Reading: Tuesday, May 14 
• 🧮Math: Friday, May 17

  Grade 5:

• ⌨️Integrated Reading & Writing: Thursday, April 15
• ✨New this year: Students taking the grade 5 or grade 8 SOL Reading test will complete an integrated reading and writing (IRW) component. The IRW component has with one non-fiction reading passage followed by 4-6 of multiple-choice/technology-enhanced items and an “invitation to write” based on the passage.
• 📖 Reading: Monday, May 13
• 🔬 Science: Friday, May 10
• 🧮 Math: Thursday, May 16

  Grade 6:

• 📖 Reading: Monday, May 13
• 🧮 Math: Thursday, May 16

If you have any questions about SOL tests, please reach out to our School Testing Coordinators, Rob Gibbs ([email protected]) or Shannon Daly ([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.

  Spring Picture Day is Tomorrow, March 19!

Come picture ready for individual and class photos!

Paper copies of the order forms came home in Friday Folders (3/1). You can also order online at My Lifetouch and use the Picture Day ID: EVTBHB6R2. 

 

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 Friday Message you will find:

• Principals' Message  
• Spring Break coming soon  
• AAP Spring Updates 
• PTA Events- Science Fair and International Night 
• Floris Soaring Eagles 
• Family Engagement Survey
• Breakfast and Lunch Menus
• Spring 2024 SOL Schedules
• Upcoming Dates 

Floris Families,

Daylight Saving Time has begun, and the official start of spring is next Tuesday. We have had some beautiful spring weather this week. 

Thank you Floris PTA for the goodies on Pi Day (3.14). All of the pies (including the pizza pies) were appreciated. 

Next week is the last week of school before spring break and a busy one here at Floris.

• Spring Photos (class and individual) are next Tuesday. You can order online at My Lifetouch using the Picture Day ID: EVTBHB6R2. 
• Our amazing counselors, Sarah de Kramer and James Duffield, have created Career Day activities and speakers for our students. 
• The March PTA meeting and Science Fair are next Wednesday evening starting at 6:00pm for PTA and 6:30pm for the Science Fair.
•  Friday is the end of the 3rd quarter. 

Please continue to remind your neighbors living in the Floris boundaries, who have children turning 5 by September 30, 2024, to register for Kindergarten. We receive our staffing based on the number of registered students. 

Have a wonderful weekend!

Holly Walker, Principal, [email protected]

Rob Gibbs, Assistant Principal, [email protected]

#EveryEagleEveryDay

🌷Spring Break🌷

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

AAP Spring Updates 

Any families interested in referring their child for school-based AAP services for the 24-25 school year should submit a AAP School-Based Services (levels 2 and 3) Form to Amy Albanese (Grades K, 2, 4, 6) [email protected] and/or Katie Pickett (Grades K, 1, 3, 5) [email protected] by May 1, 2024.

School-based services include Subject-Specific Differentiation (Level 2) and Part-Time AAP services (Level 3).  Please read the attached document for more details on the levels of service. 

https://florises.fcps.edu/announcements/aap-spring-updates-and-newsletter

PTA International Night 

The Floris PTA is thrilled to invite all of our students and families to participate once again in International Night which will take place in the Floris Cafeteria the evening of Wednesday, April 17.  More details will be forthcoming!

International Night is a celebration of the diversity of our students and families from different parts of the world. It's an event that will showcase many different countries and allow all of our families the opportunity to learn about new cultures and traditions.

Last year we had 13 different countries represented and we are currently looking for parents to volunteer to host a country of their choice this year!  Each country will be able to bring items to decorate their table and can offer things like traditional cultural items, food, etc.  We are able to accommodate 2 families hosting each table/country.

If you would like to volunteer to host a country, please contact 

[email protected] by March 15.  Thank you!

✅ Take the Family Engagement Survey!

FCPS’ Family Engagement Survey is now open. Survey partner K12 Insight emailed a link to families on March 3 and again on March 6. Please participate! Your feedback is critical in helping to inform and improve FCPS practices to best support our students.

The survey is available in 10 languages. Parents/caregivers may stop by the front office to fill out a paper survey or complete the survey online. Please check your email for the survey invitation or use this survey link. Get more information on the Family Engagement Survey webpage. 

Floris Soaring Eagles

We have brought back our online tradition here at Floris that gives the community the opportunity to say thank you and/or show appreciation for all our staff do each day to make Floris amazing!

Floris Soaring Eagles are compliments, kudos, etc. that we will share with the staff. Just click HERE to access the Floris Soaring Eagle Google Form and share your appreciation. 

You can also recognize staff with the FCPS Cares.  The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

Please remember you can find the breakfast and lunch menus and nutritional facts at FCPS Nutrislice- Floris 

March 18-22: College and Career Week, details to follow 

March 20: PTA Meeting and Science Fair, starting at 6:00pm, please enter via Door 6 

March 22: End of 3rd Quarter 

March 25-29:

• Spring Break 
• All FCPS Schools Closed 
• Floris Main Office Closed 

April 1:

• No School for Students
• Teacher Workday 

April 2: 

• No School for Students
• Staff Development Day 
• Kindergarten Orientation, 9:00-9:45am, cafe (enter via Door 6)

April 4: National School Librarian Day 

April 9: PTA Assemblies in the gym 

April 10: 

• Holiday- Eid al Fitr
• All FCPS schools and offices closed 

April 11: Book Fair Set-Up 

April 12-18: Book Fair

April 16: Chorus Performance, cafe/stage 

April 17: 

• Book Fair Parent Buying, 5:00-8:00pm, library 
• PTA Meeting, 6:00-6:30pm, café 
• PTA International Night, 6:30-8:00pm, café and gym 

April 18: 

• 6th grade Field Trip- National Art Gallery 
• Westfield Pyramid Art Show 

April 19: 

• 6th grade Field Trip- National Art Gallery 
• 2nd grade In-House Field Trip 

April 24: 

• Administrative Professionals' Day 
• Observance Day- Theravada New Year 

April 26: Field Day for K-2nd- field and blacktop, 10:00am -12:00pm 

April 29: Rain date for Field Day for K-2nd- field and blacktop, 10:00am -12:00pm 

May 2: 

• 4th grade Strings Concert (details to follow)

• 5th-6th grade Strings Concert (details to follow) 

May 3: 

• Observance Day- Orthodox Good Friday 

• Teacher Workday 

• No School for Students 

May 7: Band Concert, 6:30pm, cafe, enter via Door 6 

 

 

Find the 2023-2024 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.

New Tool: Lightspeed Classroom Management

As part of our commitment to creating a safe and focused learning environment for our students, our school is using a classroom management tool that will help teachers better connect with student devices during classes. We are continuing to expand our use over the coming weeks. This tool will provide teachers with a number of helpful features:

• Easily view student screens in real time from the teacher console to see which students may need guidance or support.
• Focus student attention on a particular website on their device to minimize distractions.
• Pause student access to the internet to focus on other classroom tasks.

We believe this classroom management tool will allow us to maximize class time to support your student’s learning while at school.  The students have digital citizenship lessons throughout the year so that they are aware of the expectations in place here at Floris; this is merely a tool to help reinforce these skills.  Teachers are not expected to monitor the computer usage all day long; in fact, we encourage our teachers to be hands-on in the classroom, circulating amongst the students, as opposed to sitting behind their own screens.  It is not a teacher’s responsibility to “catch” every instance of computer misuse, but we are hopeful that Lightspeed will be yet another tool that teachers can use to encourage positive classroom behavior. 

Please note that student devices will not be monitored outside of school hours. The regular filters remain in place on school devices, but once they are home, teachers cannot monitor students. As parents, we would like to encourage you to sign up for your own Lightspeed reports, which will allow you to see how your child is spending time on the computer during and after school hours.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Willa McGrath ([email protected]), our School-Based Technology Specialist.

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.

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

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

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.

Last week, our Floris students participated in heart healthy activities and learned about heart health during the PE classes as a part of the Kids Heart Challenge. The Kids Heart Challenge is a fundraiser for the American Heart Association (a nonprofit organization) and all Floris students have the opportunity to raise funds to help others with special hearts. As an added incentive to join, a percentage of the funds raised will go back to our school to help us purchase new physical education equipment. With only 1 1/2 weeks until spring break, here is where we stand:

Remember, the Kids Heart Challenge is an online fundraiser. To help us reach our school goal, please check out this Guide to Getting Started. Download the Kids Heart Challenge App or visit heart.org/KHC to register. Thank 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 Friday Message you will find:

• Principals' Message  
• Ramadan 
• Attendance 
• Spring Photo Day (3/19)
• AAP Spring Updates 
• PTA International Night 
• Floris Soaring Eagles 
• Techstravaganza
• Breakfast and Lunch Menus
• Spring 2024 SOL Schedule
• Upcoming Dates 

Floris Families,

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

Our staff and students did a wonderful job with our annual tornado drill this week. Safety drills are important to help schools analyze their plans and ensure students and staff know what to do in an emergency situation. We will be completing our monthly fire evacuation drills through the rest of the year. 

To continue the focus on literacy following the Floris Leap into a Good Book literacy night last Thursday, Reading Together, A Webinar for Families (I):  The Virginia Department of Education is excited to celebrate Family Reading Month in March. Join the Virginia Department of Education & Virginia PTA for a Reading Together. A webinar designed for families to learn about best practices in reading instruction, the event also covers how families can support their student through all stages of learning to read and improving reading comprehension.   The webinar will take place on Wednesday, March 13th from 7-8pm. Registration is required to participate and is open to the public.

PTA Bingo Night is tonight in the cafe. Please plan to enter via Door 6. The community is excited for another evening of fun. 

Have a super weekend!

Holly Walker, Principal, [email protected]

Rob Gibbs, Assistant Principal, [email protected]

#EveryEagleEveryDay

Ramadan

This year, the first full day of Ramadan is Monday, March 11, and is designated as an Observance Day on the FCPS calendar. Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year, a time for spiritual discipline for Muslims, who believe it was during this month that God revealed the first verses of the Quran to Mohammed. Read more about Ramadan in National Geographic Kids.

Please contact your child's counselor (Sarah de Kramer K, 2nd, 4th, 6th) or James Duffield (1st, 3rd, 5th) if your child needs an alternative space for lunch or prayer during this time, so we can make arrangements to support those needs. 

Attendance 

Student attendance is very important. Every day, our teachers are teaching, and students are learning. Studies have shown that just two absences per month can cause students to fall behind.

Family trips taken during school days will be counted as “Unexcused Absences.”  Excessive absences can additionally hurt our school’s accreditation status with the Virginia Department of Education.  Most importantly, it creates a very difficult learning gap in a student’s education both academically and socially for all the days that are missed.

We ask that families do their best to schedule your trips during school breaks. The next school break is Spring Break which is March 25-29. Spring Break is followed by two teacher workdays (student holidays) on Monday, April 1 and Tuesday, April 2

Please reach out to our school team, Sarah de Kramer, James Duffield, or Maggie Seneca, if you have any attendance concerns. You can also visit this website for attendance resources. 

Let’s work together to make sure our students are in school to finish the year strong!

Spring Picture Day - Tuesday, March 19!

Come picture ready for individual and class photos!

Paper copies of the order forms came home in Friday Folders (3/1). You can also order online at My Lifetouch and use the Picture Day ID: EVTBHB6R2. 

AAP Spring Updates 

Any families interested in referring their child for school-based AAP services for the 24-25 school year should submit a AAP School-Based Services (levels 2 and 3) Form to Amy Albanese (Grades K, 2, 4, 6) [email protected] and/or Katie Pickett (Grades K, 1, 3, 5) [email protected] by May 1, 2024.

School-based services include Subject-Specific Differentiation (Level 2) and Part-Time AAP services (Level 3).  Please read the attached document for more details on the levels of service. 

https://florises.fcps.edu/announcements/aap-spring-updates-and-newsletter

PTA International Night 

The Floris PTA is thrilled to invite all of our students and families to participate once again in International Night which will take place in the Floris Cafeteria the evening of Wednesday, April 17.  More details will be forthcoming!

International Night is a celebration of the diversity of our students and families from different parts of the world. It's an event that will showcase many different countries and allow all of our families the opportunity to learn about new cultures and traditions.

Last year we had 13 different countries represented and we are currently looking for parents to volunteer to host a country of their choice this year!  Each country will be able to bring items to decorate their table and can offer things like traditional cultural items, food, etc.  We are able to accommodate 2 families hosting each table/country.

If you would like to volunteer to host a country, please contact 

[email protected] by March 15.  Thank you!

Floris Soaring Eagles

We have brought back our online tradition here at Floris that gives the community the opportunity to say thank you and/or show appreciation for all our staff do each day to make Floris amazing!

Floris Soaring Eagles are compliments, kudos, etc. that we will share with the staff. Just click HERE to access the Floris Soaring Eagle Google Form and share your appreciation. 

You can also recognize staff with the FCPS Cares.  The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

We represent the leadership of Tomorrow’s Women in Science and Technology (TWIST), a student organization at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST). Each year, we promote STEM through our annual flagship outreach event, Techstravaganza, and we would like to invite your school’s students to attend! Techstravaganza is a free, public, hands-on STEM activity fair for elementary and middle school students in Northern Virginia. In previous years, we've hosted more than 4,500 students and 70 labs presenting STEM activities. Our exhibitors range from TJHSST clubs and our own TWIST volunteers to organizations like NASA SCaN, Art of Problem Solving, George Mason University, American Society of Naval Engineers, and the National Air and Space Museum. This year, we will be holding the 20th annual Techstravaganza on Saturday, May 18, 2024 from 10 AM to 4 PM at TJHSST. Admission is free, food will be for sale, and we hope that you can spread the word in your school. Here is our registration link: https://tinyurl.com/techstrav24, and attached are flyers (in English and Spanish) that can be used to advertise this event. We would appreciate you sharing this with families in a newsletter or your school's social media. Please let us know if translating the flyer into other languages will help. More information about the event can be found on our website at tjtechstrav.org. Thank you so much, and please let us know if you have any questions!

Please remember you can find the breakfast and lunch menus and nutritional facts at FCPS Nutrislice- Floris 

March 11: Observance Day, Ramadan 

March 18-22: College and Career Week, details to follow 

March 20: PTA Meeting and Science Fair 

March 22: End of 3rd Quarter 

March 25-29:

• Spring Break 
• All FCPS Schools Closed 
• Floris Main Office Closed 

April 1:

• No School for Students
• Teacher Workday 

April 2: 

• No School for Students
• Staff Development Day 
• Kindergarten Orientation, 9:00-9:45am, cafe (enter via Door 6)

April 4: National School Librarian Day 

April 9: PTA Assemblies in the gym 

April 10: 

• Holiday- Eid al Fitr
• All FCPS schools and offices closed 

April 11: Book Fair Set-Up 

April 12-18: Book Fair

April 16: Chorus Performance, cafe/stage 

April 17: 

• Book Fair Parent Buying, 5:00-8:00pm, library 
• PTA Meeting, 6:00-6:30pm, café 
• PTA International Night, 6:30-8:00pm, café and gym 

April 18: Westfield Pyramid Art Show 

April 19: 

• 6th grade Field Trip- National Art Gallery 
• 2nd grade In-House Field Trip 

April 24: 

• Administrative Professionals' Day 
• Observance Day- Theravada New Year 

April 26: Field Day for K-2nd- field and blacktop, 10:00am -12:00pm 

April 29: Rain date for Field Day for K-2nd- field and blacktop, 10:00am -12:00pm 

May 2: 

• 4th grade Strings Concert, 6:15pm, cafe 

• 5th-6th grade Strings Concert, 7:30pm, cafe 

May 3: 

• Observance Day- Orthodox Good Friday 

• Teacher Workday 

• No School for Students 

May 7: Band Concert, 6:30pm, cafe, enter via Door 6 

 

Find the 2023-2024 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.

  Do You Like Soccer?!  Want Free Tickets to a Game?!

Members from the Loudoun United Soccer game visited on Wednesday as mystery readers for Read Across America Week and have very generously made a special promotion for Floris families!  Each family can get up to 6 free tickets to their home opener next Saturday, March 16th! 

See the flyer below for details:

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.

Dear Floris Families.

It is with mixed emotions that I share with you that I will be retiring from FCPS as of June 30, 2024.  I feel extremely fortunate to be able to end my 31-year career in FCPS as part of the Floris family. It has truly been a full circle, having taught at Floris early in my career and then returning during the pandemic as the principal. The Floris staff and community have shown me that there are wonderful people who commit to bridging gaps, supporting students in reaching their highest potential, and caring for and supporting each other.

I am confident that our Region Assistant Superintendent, Ms. Rebecca Baenig, will work tirelessly to ensure that Floris continues its path of excellence under highly capable leadership. The Region Office and FCPS Human Resources Department will begin the principal search process in the coming weeks. Parents, community members, and staff are invited to join region leaders virtually, on Monday, March 18, 2024, at 5:30pm to gain information on the entire principal selection process and ways you can provide written input regarding the skills, experience and leadership characteristics needed for our school.  Ms. Baenig will be reaching out to you with additional information in the coming days. 

I know, no matter what the future holds, the Floris students, staff, families, and community will continue to move forward keeping respect, responsibility, and kindness at the forefront. Thank you for so many wonderful memories. It has been an honor to serve as your principal.

I will cherish this opportunity and wish you blessings now and always!

Holly Walker 

Proud Principal of Floris ES 

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.

  Spring Picture Day - Tuesday, March 19!

Come picture ready for individual and class photos!

Paper copies of the order forms came home in Friday Folders (3/1). You can also order online at My Lifetouch and use the Picture Day ID: EVTBHB6R2. 

 

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 Friday Message you will find:

• Principals' Message  
• March 5 (next Tuesday) Primary Election and No School for Students 
• Floris Soaring Eagles 
• Read Across America Day 
• National School Social Work Week 
• National Women's History Month 
• Equity in Education Month 
• Art in Our Schools Month 
• AAP Spring Updates 
• PTA Events - International Night and Bingo 
• Breakfast and Lunch Menus
• Spring 2024 SOL Schedule
• Upcoming Dates 

Floris Families,

Welcome to March. It is hard to believe that we are more than halfway through the 3rd quarter. March is considered meteorologic spring and the official first day of spring is March 19. 

One of the required annual safety drills is the Tornado Drill, which is required in March. Floris is planning our drill on Monday, March 4. Teachers will prepare their students ahead of time so they know what to expect.

Please see below the reminder that there is no school for students next Tuesday, March 5, due to the Presidential Primary Election. Many schools across FCPS are voting locations, including Floris. 

Thank you to our Reading Specialist, Shannon Day, and our ESOL teachers, Jamie Amrhein and Alyssa Stoffer, for the wonderful Literacy Night last night. It was a fabulous event for all who participated. I saw an article that reminded me that we never actually grow out of loving a read aloud. If we did, audio books wouldn't be so popular. Let's all take some time this weekend to read!!

Have a great weekend, 

Holly Walker, Principal, [email protected]

Rob Gibbs, Assistant Principal, [email protected]

#EveryEagleEveryDay

March 5 Presidential Primary and NO SCHOOL for students 

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

Therefore, March 5 will be a school holiday for students and a virtual School Planning Day. As outlined in Regulation 4421, School Planning Days are directed by school-based Administrators in order to devote time to school improvement efforts, including collaboration around data, common assessments, responsive instruction, etc. 

Central offices and school offices will remain open. SACC will remain open, as on other professional work days. 

Floris Soaring Eagles

We have brought back our online tradition here at Floris that gives the community the opportunity to say thank you and/or show appreciation for all our staff do each day to make Floris amazing!

Floris Soaring Eagles are compliments, kudos, etc. that we will share with the staff. Just click HERE to access the Floris Soaring Eagle Google Form and share your appreciation. 

You can also recognize staff with the FCPS Cares.  The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

Read Across America Day- March 2

Read Across America Day was established by the National Education Association (NEA) in 1998 to help get kids excited about reading. Learn more about Equitable Access to Literacy in this video. 

National School Social Work Week

March 3-9 is National School Social Work Week. Social workers in FCPS help to prevent social, emotional, and behavioral factors from affecting a student's ability to perform at their best. Their primary goal is to remove barriers that prevent a student from fulfilling their academic potential. Social workers are assigned to every school and center in the school system. Most social workers serve one to two sites. Learn more about the role of social workers in FCPS.

National Women’s History Month

Every year, March is designated Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation. The month is set aside to honor women’s contributions in American history.Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Read more about Women’s History Month in National Geographic Kids.

Equity in Education Month

FCPS — in conjunction with the Virginia School Boards Association — observes March as Equity in Education Month, a division-wide opportunity to deepen our commitment to creating a climate and curriculum where all students receive the resources they need to reach their fullest potential.  

Celebrating Arts in Our Schools Month 

Council for Art Education (CFAE) administers Youth Art Month. Youth Art Month encourages support for quality school art programs, and promotes art material safety. The program provides a medium for recognizing skills developed through visual arts experiences unlike any other curriculum subjects, including:

• Problem solving
• Creativity
• Observation
• Communication

Art shows, special exhibits, fundraisers, and school and community activities take place annually, traditionally during March, to celebrate visual art education for grades K-12.

March has also been designated by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) for the observance of Music In Our Schools Month® (MIOSM®), the time of year when music education becomes the focus of schools across the nation. The purpose of MIOSM is to raise awareness of the importance of music education for all children – and to remind citizens that school is where all children should have access to music. MIOSM is an opportunity for music teachers to bring their music programs to the attention of the school and the community, and to display the benefits that school music.

AAP Spring Updates 

Any families interested in referring their child for school-based AAP services for the 24-25 school year should submit a AAP School-Based Services (levels 2 and 3) Form to Amy Albanese (Grades K, 2, 4, 6) [email protected] and/or Katie Pickett (Grades K, 1, 3, 5) [email protected] by May 1, 2024.

School-based services include Subject-Specific Differentiation (Level 2) and Part-Time AAP services (Level 3).  Please read the attached document for more details on the levels of service. 

https://florises.fcps.edu/announcements/aap-spring-updates-and-newsletter

PTA International Night 

The Floris PTA is thrilled to invite all of our students and families to participate once again in International Night which will take place in the Floris Cafeteria the evening of Wednesday, April 17.  More details will be forthcoming!

International Night is a celebration of the diversity of our students and families from different parts of the world. It's an event that will showcase many different countries and allow all of our families the opportunity to learn about new cultures and traditions.

Last year we had 13 different countries represented and we are currently looking for parents to volunteer to host a country of their choice this year!  Each country will be able to bring items to decorate their table and can offer things like traditional cultural items, food, etc.  We are able to accommodate 2 families hosting each table/country.

If you would like to volunteer to host a country, please contact 

[email protected] by March 15.  Thank you!

 

Please remember you can find the breakfast and lunch menus and nutritional facts at FCPS Nutrislice- Floris 

March 5: No School for Students, Primary Election Day

March 6: Fiddle Club Informance Concert, 6:30pn, cafe, enter via Door 6 

March 8: PTA Bingo Night, 6:30pm, cafe, enter via Door 6 

March 11: Observance Day, Ramadan 

March 18-22: College and Career Week, details to follow 

March 20: PTA Meeting and Science Fair 

March 22: End of 3rd Quarter

March 25-29:

• Spring Break 
• All FCPS Schools Closed 
• Floris Main Office Closed 

April 1:

• No School for Students
• Teacher Workday 

April 2: 

• No School for Students
• Staff Development Day 

April 4: 

• National School Librarian Day 

April 9:

• PTA Assemblies today  

April 10: 

• Holiday- Eid al Fitr

• All FCPS schools and offices closed 

April 11: 

• Book Fair Set-Up 

April 12: 

• Book Fair Preview Day  

April 15: 

• Book Fair Preview Day  

April 16-18:

• Book Fair Selling Days   

April 16: 

• Chorus Performance, cafe/stage 

April 17: 

• Book Fair Parent Buying, 5:00-8:00pm, library 

• PTA Meeting, 6:00-6:30pm, café 

• PTA International Night, 6:30-8:00pm, café and gym 

April 18: 

• Westfield Pyramid Art Show, Westfield HS 

April 19: 

• 6th grade Field Trip- National Art Gallery 

• 2nd grade In-House Field Trip 

April 24: 

• Administrative Professionals' Day 

• Observance Day- Theravada New Year 

April 26: 

• Field Day for K-2nd, field and blacktop, 10:00am -12:00pm 

April 29: 

• Rain date for Field Day for K-2nd, field and blacktop, 10:00am -12:00pm 

May 2: 

• 4th grade Strings Concert (details to follow)

• 5th-6th grade Strings Concert (details to follow) 

May 3: 

• Observance Day- Orthodox Good Friday 

• Teacher Workday 

• No School for Students 

May 7: Band Concert, 6:30pm, cafe, enter via Door 6 

 

 

Find the 2023-2024 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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It's hard to believe it, but yearbooks are now on sale for this school year!  You will be receiving a paper copy of the instructions from Lifetouch, but we figured it wouldn't hurt to send them digitally as well!  Important things to note:

• Cost: $18
• Order Deadline: April 12, 2024
• In order to ensure everything is tracked appropriately and efficiently, we will only be conducting online orders.  

👉👉You can order the Floris Yearbook from 🔗this direct link 🔗👈👈

• You will need to enter your student's first name, last name, grade level, and provide online payment.
• If you are ordering more than one yearbook, you'll need to complete the above process for each student (separate transactions).

We can expect our yearbooks to arrive from Lifetouch at the end of May and they will be distributed to students in June!  Thank you!

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

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Parent Lunch and Learn sessions with the Clinical team. We are offering a three part series highlighting ways to help your child be successful and resilient based on the book, The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives  by William Stixrud and Ned Johnson.

Session 1: February 2nd “The gift of control”

Session 2: March 1st “The non-anxious presence”

Session 3: April 5th “Technology solutions”

 

All sessions will be from 12:00-1:00 p.m. in room 165.

Next session is this Friday, all are welcome to attend!

 

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

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In this Friday Message you will find:

• Principals' Message  
• Floris Soaring Eagles 
• March is National Nutrition Month 
• Children's Dental Health 
• Sully District Budget Town Hall
• PTA Bingo Night March 8 
• Breakfast and Lunch Menus
• Upcoming Dates 

Floris Families,

We look forward to seeing many of you at the Rachel Carson Middle School gym this evening for the PTA Basketball Game and Pep Rally! 

Next week is a leap year date (2/29) and Friday is the beginning of March. We are looking forward to a great learning opportunity at our Floris Literacy evening, "Leap into a Good Book" next Thursday. Please plan to come in at Door 4 (near blacktop) to enter the event. 

Congratulations to 6th grader, Vamsikrishna S., the Floris Spelling Bee Champion! He will represent Floris at the Fairfax County Spelling Bee on Sunday, March 17 at Lake Braddock Secondary School.

February 27-March 3 is Public Schools Week. Public Schools Week is an annual celebration that brings together school leaders, educators, parents & community leaders to recognize the importance of our nation’s public schools. FCPS welcomes every child, regardless of ability, race, religion, wealth, language, country of origin or needs. Join us to say THANK YOU to the dedicated Floris teachers and staff who serve and support our students every day.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Holly Walker, Principal, [email protected]

Rob Gibbs, Assistant Principal, [email protected]

#EveryEagleEveryDay

Floris Soaring Eagles

We have brought back our online tradition here at Floris that gives the community the opportunity to say thank you and/or show appreciation for all our staff do each day to make Floris amazing!

Floris Soaring Eagles are compliments, kudos, etc. that we will share with the staff. Just click HERE to access the Floris Soaring Eagle Google Form and share your appreciation. 

You can also recognize staff with the FCPS Cares.  The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

March is National Nutrition Month

National Nutrition Month® is an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. During the month of March, everyone is invited to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits.

Please join Sully District School Board member Seema Dixit and Supervisor Kathy Smith for a joint town hall as they present the proposed FY 2025 Budgets and take your comments. Details of the Fairfax County budget can be found here. If you would like to ask a question regarding the FY25 Budget, please send an email to [email protected] with "Budget Town Hall" in the subject. Detailed information about the FCPS FY25 Budget can be found on our website and also detailed below.

When: Thursday, February 29, 2024 

Time: 7 - 9 pm EST

Where: Rocky Run Middle School Lecture Hall

Address: 4400 Stringfellow Road, Chantilly, VA 20151 

 

*If American Sign Language or language interpretation is needed, please submit your request by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 27, 2024.

Please remember you can find the breakfast and lunch menus and nutritional facts at FCPS Nutrislice- Floris 

February 23: PTA Basketball Game and Pep Rally, RCMS gym 

February 29: Floris Literacy Night- Leap into a Good Book, 6:30pm, cafe and classrooms, enter via Door 6 

March 5: No School for Students, Primary Election Day

March 8: PTA Bingo Night, 6:30pm, cafe, enter via Door 4 

March 11: Observance Day, Ramadan 

March 18-22: College and Career Week, details to follow 

March 20: PTA Meeting and Science Fair 

March 22: End of 3rd Quarter

March 25-29:

• Spring Break 
• All FCPS Schools Closed 
• Floris Main Office Closed 

April 1:

• No School for Students
• Teacher Workday 

April 2: 

• No School for Students
• Staff Development Day 

 

 

Find the 2023-2024 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.

 

Don't forget!  The Floris basketball game and pep rally is tomorrow night!!! 

Even if you aren't able to go, we will be having a Floris Spirit Day here at school to add some extra pep to the hallways. 

👉Wear your Floris spirit gear or just blue and white!👈

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.

 

Just a reminder that tonight is the February PTA Meeting starting at 6:30pm. The meeting is virtual on Zoom 

Rachel Carson Middle School Principal, Gordon Stokes, will be a special guest at the PTA meeting. 

This is the final virtual PTA meeting for this school year. The March meeting is aligned with the Science Fair, and the April meeting is aligned with the PTA's International/Heritage Night. 

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

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Hey Eagle families,

Our PE teachers, Mr. Barber and Mr. Morales, are excited to announce that Floris Elementary has joined the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge (KHC). As a part of this event, your child will be learning about heart health, will get moving with fun, heart-healthy activities, and learn how to reduce their stress levels while building empathy and kindness.  

The Kids Heart Challenge is a fundraiser for the American Heart Association (a nonprofit organization) and all Floris students have the opportunity to raise funds to help others with special hearts. As an added incentive for Floris families to join, a percentage of the funds raised will go back to our school to help us purchase new physical education equipment. Floris kicks off its Kids Heart Challenge on February 20 and it concludes on March 22 with a goal of raising $5,000!

Floris students will be involved in a kickoff assembly during their specials times on the following days:

• Thursday, February 22 - Grades 4, 5, 6
• Friday, February 23 - Grades K, 1, 2, 3

The Kids Heart Challenge is an online fundraiser. To join us, please check out this Guide to Getting Started. Download the Kids Heart Challenge App or visit heart.org/KHC to register today and earn your own BE THE TORCH WRISTBAND so you can help light the way! 

Once you've registered, start Finn’s Mission and complete the challenges. As a family you can help to create a community of lifesavers by learning the lifesaving steps of Hands-Only CPR. It’s quick, easy, and fun! Learn more about Finn and his special challenge HERE. 

Please join us in support of heart health and thank you for keeping more hearts beating strong!

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 Friday Message you will find:

• Principals' Message  
• Floris Soaring Eagles 
• Eating Disorders Parent Information 
• Presidents' Day Holiday 
• PTA Meeting Questionnaire for RCMS Principal - closes Monday 
• Breakfast and Lunch Menus
• Upcoming Dates 

Floris Families,

What a wonderful week of kindness around Floris. Many thanks to Ms. de Kramer, Mr. Duffield, and Ms. Seneca for the wonderful activities happening around the school this week. There was a Random Acts of Kindness Challenge, spirit days, a Kindness Chain, and paper kindness rocks (created by our 6th graders and available to anyone needing a pick-me-up). 

Please remember that each time you come to Floris for a meeting, to have lunch, to volunteer, or to pick up your child, you must have your photo ID available to show at the door and to sign in on the Visitor Management System. Thank you in advance for bringing your ID (not a picture on a phone), as we continue to keep a strong focus on student safety and school security. 

Next week is a short, but busy week.

• Monday is Presidents' Day, a holiday during which all FCPS Schools and Offices are closed.  
• Next Wednesday evening is the February PTA Meeting. The meeting is virtual on Zoom and a reminder that Rachel Carson Middle School Principal Gordon Stokes will be a special guest at the PTA meeting. Please log on at 6:30pm on February 21. Please enter your questions here if you haven't already by Monday, Feb. 19. 
• Next Friday is the PTA Basketball Game and Pep Rally at Rachel Carson Middle School. 

Have a wonderful long weekend!

Holly Walker, Principal, [email protected]

Rob Gibbs, Assistant Principal, [email protected]

#EveryEagleEveryDay

Floris Soaring Eagles

We have brought back our online tradition here at Floris that gives the community the opportunity to say thank you and/or show appreciation for all our staff do each day to make Floris amazing!

Floris Soaring Eagles are compliments, kudos, etc. that we will share with the staff. Just click HERE to access the Floris Soaring Eagle Google Form and share your appreciation. 

You can also recognize staff with the FCPS Cares.  The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.

Eating Disorder Parent Information

In 2013, Virginia passed a law requiring every school system to provide information to parents annually about eating disorders with parents/guardians of students in the fifth through twelfth grades. 

According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA 2023),

Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. In the United States, 28.8 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives.

There is no single cause of an eating disorder. Rather, it is a complex combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that converge and set off an individual’s predisposed genetic vulnerability.

In collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department, FCPS has developed a web page with detailed information and resources about eating disorders.  To find out more, please visit the FCPS Eating Disorders website.

In addition to the information on the FCPS website, the National Eating Disorders Association has a toll free, confidential Helpline, 1-800-931-2237.

Presidents Day (Holiday)

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

Rachel Carson Middle School Principal Gordon Stokes at February PTA Meeting 

The February PTA Meeting is a virtual meeting on Wednesday, February 21, at 6:30pm. We are excited to announce a special guest at that PTA Meeting:  Rachel Carson Middle School Principal, Gordon Stokes.

In order to help us prepare for an informative session, please enter your question/topic below. 

Questions for Principal Stokes at PTA Meeting 

Please enter all questions by Monday, February 19!

Please remember you can find the breakfast and lunch menus and nutritional facts at FCPS Nutrislice- Floris 

February 19: Presidents’ Day Holiday, All FCPS Schools and Offices are Closed

February 21:

• PTA Meeting, virtual, 6:30pm- Special Guest: Gordon Stokes, Principal of Rachel Carson Middle School 
• 3rd grade Field Trip, Green Springs Gardens

February 22: National School Bus Driver Day 

February 23: PTA Basketball Game and Pep Rally, RCMS gym 

February 29: Floris Literacy Night- Leap into a Good Book, 6:30pm, cafe and classrooms, enter via Door 6 

March 5: No School for Students, Primary Election Day

March 8: PTA Bingo Night, 6:30pm, cafe, enter via Door 6 

March 11: Observance Day, Ramadan 

March 18-22: College and Career Week, details to follow 

March 20: PTA Meeting and Science Fair 

March 22: End of 3rd Quarter

March 25-29:

• Spring Break 
• All FCPS Schools Closed 
• Floris Main Office Closed 

April 1:

• No School for Students
• Teacher Workday 

April 2: 

• No School for Students
• Staff Development Day 
• Kindergarten Orientation, 9:00-9:45am, cafe (enter via Door 6)

 

Find the 2023-2024 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: it's Kindness Week, and we're kicking it 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