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Panther Press for October 13, 2024

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Calendar Reminder: No School October 14

Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Monday, October 14, is a student holiday and staff development day for Indigenous Peoples' Day. See the complete school year calendar.

Fall Pictures are Tuesday!

Fall Picture Day is Tuesday, October 15. Picture day envelopes will be sent home in Tuesday folders. Students may bring the envelopes to school on picture day or families may pre-order on mylifetouch.com. If you pre-order, please use your student’s ID or Picture Day ID #EVT6S6NHJ.

National School Lunch Week: Celebrating the Power of School Lunches

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

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

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

Title I Annual Meeting at PTA!

Join us for our combined Annual Title I Meeting at PTA on Thursday, October 14 at 5 pm in the library. This is a great time to learn about the excellent resources, supports, and expectations in place at Parklawn as a Title I School. We hope to see you there!

3 Hour Early Release is Monday, October 21

Parklawn's next 3 hour early release is scheduled for Monday, October 21st. An eNotify was sent out to all families last Monday which confirmed your student's plan at the 12:30 dismissal. If you did not receive your message or have any questions, please  call the main office at (703) 914-6900.

Parklawn Storybook Character Day is October 31!

Thursday, October 31 will be a special Parklawn spirit day! Storybook Character Day a favorite Parklawn event every October. We are excited to have the return of our parade!!! Weather permitting, our parade will begin at 9:30. If family members would like to join us, you may do so outside as we take our parade around the building. Staff and Students may dress up as their favorite storybook characters and share their favorite book. Thank you for remembering costumes must be from a storybook, and masks or toy weapons are not permitted.

Parklawn Chipotle Fundraiser Tuesday!

Make sure you grab dinner at Chipotle (6242 Little River Turnpike) on October 15th between 4pm and 8pm. 25% of your order will go directly to the PTA so that we can provide resources and great events for you! 

Our October PTA Meeting is Thursday at 5 pm in the library. Hope to see you there!

🎤 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, at Fairhill Elementary School.
• Monday, October 21, at Virginia Run Elementary School.
• Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle School.

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

Attendance Matters! Grade Level Competitions at Parklawn

At Parklawn, we know how important good attendance is to a successful school year. To support this important matter, our grade levels compete each month for the best attendance. Our counselors announce who won the grade level competition each month on our Parklawn Morning News. There are signs of celebration posted at the entrances, and the grade level receives a prize. Check out Ms. Sharpton in the video below to see the most recent announcement!

https://youtu.be/_EYXgoHyyrM

Upcoming Dates

Monday, October 14: Student Holiday; Indigenous Peoples' Day (Staff Development Day)

Tuesday, October 15: Fall Picture Day

Tuesday, October 15: PTA Fundraiser: Chipotle Night, 4-8 pm (6242 Little River Turnpike)

Thursday, October 17: PTA Meeting 5 pm; Title I Annual Meeting

Saturday, October 19: Family Field Trip

Monday, October 21: Three Hour Early Release Monday; dismissal at 12:30

Tuesday, October 29:  Family Science Night at Parklawn, 6-7:30 pm

Thursday, October 31: End of Quarter One; 2 hour early dismissal for all students

Friday, November 1: School Holiday; Diwali and Dia de los Muertos and All Saints Day.

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for October 6, 2024

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Overview of AAP Services Information Session

Parklawn will hold our annual Advanced Academics Program Information Meeting on Wednesday October 9. This year’s meeting will be offered in person at 6 pm with Spanish and Farsi interpretation provided. Ms. Kristen Gluck, our Advanced Academics Resource Teacher, will provide information about the levels of service and examples of Advanced Academic curriculum and instruction in FCPS and Parklawn Elementary . The meeting is open to all K-5 parents. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Gluck at (703) 914-6900 or by email at [email protected]. We hope to see you there!

Monthly Market is Thursday, 10/10!

Come visit Parklawn’s Family Market each month! We’re partnering with the @Capital Area Food Bank to offer fresh produce and dry goods to members of the Parklawn community, free of charge. Groceries are available on a first-come first-serve basis. We’ll see you there!

When: Second Thursday of each month, Thursday,  October 10, 2024

Where: At Parklawn!

Time: 5-7 pm (or when groceries run out)

What: The Capital Area Food Bank will be providing fresh produce and dry goods for the school community.

Help keep our market smooth and safe!

• The front door will open at 5 pm. The line will form at door 1.
• Please allow time for our student dismissal and not arrive before 4pm.
• We encourage you bring reusable bags for your goods!
• Children joining their caregivers will remain with the adults at all times

October Family Coffee is Thursday!

This year, our Family Coffees with Ms. Forgy will be held right before our Monthly Market. Please join us from 4-4:45 in the library for timely topics. Our October 10 meeting will be focusing on the new reading curriculum. Our reading teachers, Ms. Weingarten and Ms. Vincent, will join us. to share how we are teaching reading and writing. We hope to see you there!

Yom Kippur

Friday, October 11, will be an evening-only observance day for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. There is school that day, but important events will not occur after school.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Monday, October 14, is a student holiday and staff development day for Indigenous Peoples' Day. See the complete school year calendar.

Fall Pictures

Fall Picture Day is Tuesday, October 15. Picture day envelopes will be sent home in Tuesday folders. Students may bring the envelopes to school on picture day or families may pre-order on mylifetouch.com. If you pre-order, please use your student’s ID or Picture Day ID #EVT6S6NHJ.

Immunization Updates

Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students 

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

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

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

Elementary School Clinics

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

Message from the PTA

Thank you to all who joined the PTA at our first meeting of the year.  Be sure to check out the Panther Press for the October 17th meeting information. We reviewed the proposed activities for the year and discussed some additional activities we would like to plan for the coming year. We are looking for 3 - 4 individuals to work on each event. If you are interested in learning more about these activities or are interested in helping to plan them, please email [email protected].

Also make sure you grab dinner at Chipotle (6242 Little River Turnpike) on October 15th between 4pm and 8pm. 25% of your order will go directly to the PTA so that we can provide resources and great events for you! A flyer will be sent home in your child’s Tuesday folder this week.

Upcoming Dates

Wednesday, October 9: AAP Information Session, 6 pm

Thursday, October 9: October Family Coffee, 4:00 pm

Thursday, October 10: Family Market, 5-7 pm

Monday, October 14: Student Holiday; Indigenous Peoples' Day (Staff Development Day)

Tuesday, October 15: Fall Picture Day

Tuesday, October 15: PTA Fundraiser: Chipotle Night, 4-8 pm (6242 Little River Turnpike)

Thursday, October 17: PTA Meeting 5 pm; Title I Annual Meeting

Saturday, October 19: Family Field Trip

Monday, October 21: Three Hour Early Release Monday; dismissal at 12:30

Friday, October 25: Justice Pyramid Youth Night

Tuesday, October 29: Children’s Science Center Family Night at Parklawn, 6-7:30 pm

Thursday, October 31: End of Quarter One; 2 hour early dismissal for all students

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for September 29, 2024

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Rosh Hashanah

Shanah tovah to our Jewish community celebrating Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year! Meaning “head of the year,” Rosh Hashanah is one of Judaism’s holiest days and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection that ends with Yom Kippur.

Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on 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. 

Parklawn's Monthly Market is Back!

Come visit Parklawn’s Family Market each month! We’re partnering with the @Capital Area Food Bank to offer fresh produce and dry goods to members of the Parklawn community, free of charge. Groceries are available on a first-come first-serve basis. We’ll see you there!

When: Second Thursday of each month

• Thursday,  October 10, 2024
• Thursday, November 14, 2024
• Thursday, December 12, 2024
• Thursday January 9, 2025
• Thursday February 13, 2025
• Thursday,  March 13, 2025
• Thursday April 10, 2025
• Thursday May 8, 2025

Where: At Parklawn!

Time: 5-7 pm (or when groceries run out)

What: The Capital Area Food Bank will be providing fresh produce and dry goods for the school community.

Help keep our market smooth and safe!

• The front door will open at 5 pm. The line will form at door 1.
• Please allow time for our student dismissal and not arrive before 4pm.
• We encourage you bring reusable bags for your goods!
• Children joining their caregivers will remain with the adults at all times

October Family Coffee

This year, our Family Coffees with Ms.Forgy will be held right before our Monthly Market. Please join us from 4-4:45 in the library for timely topics. Our October 10 meeting will be focusing on the new reading curriculum. Our reading teachers, Ms. Weingarten and Ms. Vincent, will join us. We hope to see you there!

Overview of AAP Services Information Session

Parklawn will hold our annual Advanced Academics Program Information Meeting on Wednesday October 9. This year’s meeting will be offered in person at 6 pm with Spanish and Farsi interpretation provided. Ms. Kristen Gluck, our Advanced Academics Resource Teacher, will provide information about the levels of service and examples of Advanced Academic curriculum and instruction in FCPS and Parklawn Elementary . The meeting is open to all K-5 parents. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Gluck at (703) 914-6900 or by email at [email protected]. We hope to see you there!

Fall School Pictures

Fall Picture Day is Tuesday, October 15. Picture day envelopes will be sent home in Tuesday folders. Students may bring the envelopes to school on picture day or families may pre-order on mylifetouch.com. If you pre-order, please use your student’s ID or Picture Day ID #EVT6S6NHJ.

Fall Family Field Trip!

Where:  National Museum of African American History and Culture                             

1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560

Date:  Saturday, October 19, 2024

Time:  Leave Parklawn at 10:00 A.M.

    Meet outside Museum for entry at 10:30 am

    Depart from Museum at 1:00 P.M. 

**Transportation Provided by FCPS Bus: space is limited to 150 people

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture. It was established by an Act of Congress in 2003, following decades of efforts to promote and highlight the contributions of African Americans.

Students MUST be accompanied by their parent or guardian at all times during the field trip*

*Space is Limited for bus transportation and entry tickets!

Check your student's Tuesday folder this week to complete the form!

🗓️ 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. 

Upcoming Dates

Thursday, October 3: Holiday (for students and staff); Rosh Hashanah 

Friday, October 4: Student Holiday; Teacher Workday

Wednesday, October 9: AAP Information Session, 6 pm

Thursday, October 10: Family Market, 5-7 pm

Monday, October 14: Student Holiday; Indigenous Peoples' Day (Staff Development Day)

Tuesday, October 15: Fall Picture Day

Thursday, October 17: PTA Meeting 5 pm

Monday, October 21: Three Hour Early Release Monday

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for September 22, 2024

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Our fourth graders are proud of our new welcome sign at Parklawn! Thank you to Ms. Meadows, Ms. Krest, and Ms. Phalon along with our fourth graders for this great addition to our campus!

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!

Parklawn's 8:25 Arrival Time

Parklawn’s doors for buses and kiss and ride open at 8:25 each morning. Before this time, there is no staff supervision of students, as they are preparing for the day. If students arrive prior to the 8:25 opening, they must be supervised by a parent/caregiver. For safety, thank you for remaining with your child until the doors are opened for entry and staff supervision begins.

Students to Be Surveyed on Social-Emotional Learning

FCPS is committed to supporting the mental wellness of all students. The Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener helps our students share their perspectives on how their schools and communities support them and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.

The screener is offered to all students in grades 3 through 12 in the fall and spring. It addresses skills such as achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students. 

After each screening, results will be available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who don’t have a ParentVUE account. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

Families who wish to opt their child out may do so by completing the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or SIS ParentVUE. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact our front office. 

Parent Digital Consent Form

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. 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 Monday, September 30.

🎤 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 23, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Newington Forest Elementary School.
• 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.

Upcoming Dates

Thursday, October 3: Holiday (for students and staff); Rosh Hashanah 

Friday, October 4: Student Holiday; Teacher Workday

Monday, October 14: Student Holiday; Indigenous Peoples' Day (Staff Development Day)

Thursday, October 17: PTA Meeting 5 pm

Monday, October 21: Three Hour Early Release Monday

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for September 15, 2024

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Calendar Reminder! Early Release Monday!

Monday, September 16th is Parklawn's first 3 hour early release Monday for the 2024-2024 school year. An eNotify was sent last week to confirm your student's dismissal plan. Our next early release Monday is October 21st.

National Hispanic Heritage Month

From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month.

Families at Lunch

We have spent the last few weeks reinforcing expectations, routines, and procedures for the cafeteria lunch time. We are now excited to welcome back family members who would like to join their student for lunch. Families may bring their own bag lunch or buy from the cafeteria. However, they may not bring treats to share with others or fast-food meals. They are also required to sign in at the office and plan to go directly to the cafeteria.

🍽️Fueling Student Success: New Food Options Cooked up at FCPS

Students will have more than a dozen new options for lunch and breakfast in school cafeterias starting this week. New menu items were either favorites at last year’s food show — including Korean BBQ wings, sweet Thai chili wings, chicken tikka masala, and barbacoa street tacos — or were tested with student focus groups and tastings. 

View our school menu to see all the new options and when they will become available.

✔️ 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 the front office 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 Parklawn’s front office. 

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided, 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. 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 Monday, September 30.

🤒 When a Student Should Stay Home From School

Whether students miss school because of illness or any other reason, missing school leads to learning loss.

Help your child succeed by encouraging them to attend as many days as possible, but do make sure your child stays home if they are sick. Visit FCPS’ website for information on when to keep your child at home.

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify their teacher so that support can be provided if needed. Also, keep an open line of communication with your school's public health staff.

Read about how families can help form good attendance habits. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

PTA Meeting is Thursday!

September PTA Meeting: Join us for our first Parklawn Parent Teacher Association (PTA) meeting of the school year! Pizza and drinks will be provided. The meeting will be Thursday, September 19, from 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. It will be held in person in the school cafeteria.

Membership Drive: Help Our PTA Membership Grow! Your membership helps to support our activities throughout the year, such as providing a magic show at last week’s family picnic. Membership dues are $15 for a family (more than 1 adult) for the entire school year. When you submit your membership form (in paper or join online), please include the grade(s) of your student(s) to earn a point for that grade. The grade that earns the most points by September 30 will win a prize!

Upcoming Dates

Monday, September 16: 3-Hour Early Release Day (K-5) Dismissal at 12:30

Thursday, September 19: September PTA Meeting, 5 pm

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for September 8, 2024

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Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Program

Exciting news! Parklawn once again has been selected to participate in the Fresh Fruit Vegetable Program for this school year. The goal of this program is “to create a healthier school environment by providing nutritious food choices by expanding the variety of fruits and vegetables children experience, increase fruit and vegetable consumption, and to make a difference in children’s diets to impact their present and future health.” Beginning the week of September 9th, all students will be provided a fresh fruit or vegetable snack three days each week!

September 11 National Day of Service

With the upcoming 23rd anniversary of September 11, FCPS acknowledges the loss of life, the heroism of our first responders, and the resilience of our country. The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, also called Patriot Day, is a chance to reflect and act in service to others to honor those who were injured or killed in the terrorist attacks.

All FCPS students are encouraged to participate in service learning as it supports Portrait of a Graduate (POG) attributes and social and emotional learning (SEL) skills.

First Early Release Monday is September 16

As a reminder, FCPS elementary Schools are having seven early release Mondays this year. On these days, students will be dismissed at 12:30, with those staying for needed childcare supervision at 3:30.

The following dates are Parklawn’s Early Release Mondays throughout the school year:

• September 16
• October 21
• November 18
• February 10
• March 10
• April 21
• May 12

We would like to extend a big thank you to our families for confirming their students’ dismissal plans.

Bus Transportation Reminder

We have many students who take bus transportation back and forth to school each day. This means we have many bus stops with a large number of students. Thank you to family members who accompany their children to the bus stop. Thank you for keeping the following points in mind:

• Children arrive at the bus stop at least 5 minutes prior to the scheduled bus time.
• Students should be in an orderly line with our youngest students at the front of the line and seated at the front of the bus. You will see our PreK students have purple tape on their backpacks. Kindergarteners will have yellow tape on their backpacks.

Thank you for your partnership. We are excited to share that our student patrols will begin soon in the coming weeks!

🍎 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.

🩹 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.

Message from the Parklawn PTA

The Parklawn Parent Teacher Association (PTA) works to create a welcoming community for all our students, their families and caregivers, and school staff.

Last week, the PTA launched our Membership Drive! Your membership helps to support many PTA activities, such as our Wild About Reading contest, and teacher appreciation activities. Membership dues are $15 for a family for the entire school year. When you submit your membership form (in paper or join online), please include the grade(s) of your student(s) to earn a point for that grade. The grade that earns the most points by September 30 will win a prize!

Justice Fall Basketball Clinic

The Justice HS boys basketball coaching staff and varsity players are hosting a fall basketball clinic for boys and girls in grades 5-8.

Registration is open for the September 14th clinic. 

Upcoming Dates

Monday, September 16: 3-Hour Early Release Day (K-5) Dismissal at 12:30

Thursday, September 19: September PTA Meeting, 5 pm

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for September 1, 2024

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Back to School Night is September 4

This is a time for parents/caregivers to attend and learn about the coming school year. Please see the schedule below:

 Last  name A-K families:  5:30-6:35   

Last name: L-Z families:  6:50-7:55

We hope to see you there!

Parklawn Family Picnic is September 6

To celebrate the new year, join us for our Parklawn family picnic on Friday, September 6. Families can pack their own dinner and blanket and join us outside for a picnic! Thanks to our Parklawn PTA, there will also be a magic show! Weather permitting, we hope to see you there between 5:30-7!

What Is a School Board?

The Fairfax County School Board is responsible for running the public schools in Fairfax County. Twelve School Board members are elected by county voters every four years. 

A student representative serves on the board as a non-voting member. They are chosen by their peers each year.

The School Board makes general rules and sets guidelines to ensure Fairfax County Public Schools runs properly. They follow the laws of Virginia and the rules set by the Virginia Board of Education. 

Learning about your local School Board is important. Understanding their policies and initiatives can help you advocate for positive changes and ensure that the educational needs of all students are met. There are many ways to get involved. Learn more about the School Board, how to participate in their meetings, and where to watch their meetings. 

Get to know our Parklawn Schoolboard members! Use the video links below:

Ricardy Anderson, Mason District Representative:Ricardy Anderson (with English captions), Ricardy Anderson (with Korean and Spanish subtitles)

Ilryong Moon, Member At-Large: Ilryong Moon (with English captions), Ilryong Moon (with Korean and Spanish subtitles)

Ryan McElveen, Member At-Large: Ryan McElveen (with English captions), Ryan McElveen (with Korean and Spanish subtitles)

Kyle McDaniel, Member At-Large: Kyle McDaniel (with English captions), Kyle McDaniel (with Korean and Spanish subtitles)

🙋 Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

The beginning of the school year is the best time to develop strong attendance habits! Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success. Visit FCPS’ Attendance webpage for tips and strategies.

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.

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. 

Message from the PTA

The Parklawn Parent Teacher Association (PTA) works to create a welcoming community for all our students, their families and caregivers, and school staff. 

This week, the PTA is launching our Membership Drive! Your membership helps to support many PTA activities, such as our Wild About Reading contest, and teacher appreciation activities. Membership dues are $15 for a family for the entire school year. When you submit your membership form (in paper or online), please include the grade(s) of your student(s) to earn a point for that grade. The grade that earns the most points by September 30 will win a prize! Stop by the PTA table at the Parklawn Family Picnic on September 6 to pick up a membership form, and visit our website to join online.

Upcoming Dates

Monday, September 2:  Labor Day Holiday

Wednesday, September 4: Back to School Night

Friday, September 6: Parklawn Family Picnic; 5:30-7

Monday, September 16: 3-Hour Early Release Day (K-5) Dismissal at 12:30

Thursday, September 19: September PTA Meeting, 5 pm

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for August 25, 2024

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

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 our school and FCPS by adding your cell phone number and email to 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 our front office

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. You can easily opt your child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. You may also change how your student’s 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/caregivers can submit up to two full-day absences through SIS ParentVUE. Log in and click “Report Absence.” Absences longer than two days, partial day absences, and changes of transportation should still be reported to our front office. 

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

Transportation Patience and Safety

Thank you for your patience as we all get used to new routines this school year. We appreciate our families following Kiss and Ride procedures and being patient while waiting for your children’s buses. 

If your student’s bus is delayed, you 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 to announce significant bus delays. Please contact the Transportation Office at 703-446-2050 with any additional questions. For concerns after 5:30 p.m., contact Safety and Security at 571-423-2000. 

Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE to make sure you receive email messages about bus delays.

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 our 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, you 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

Labor Day Holiday Weekend

Friday, August 30, and Monday, September 2, are Labor Day holidays for all FCPS employees and students. Virginia legislation requires that schools opening prior to Labor Day must be closed the Friday immediately preceding Labor Day. We hope everyone takes the long weekend to celebrate a strong start to the school year and enjoy time with family and friends. See the complete school year calendar.

Back to School Night is September 4

This is a time for parents/caregivers to attend and learn about the coming school year. Please see the schedule below:

 Last  name A-K families:  5:30-6:35   

Last name: L-Z families:  6:50-7:55

We hope to see you there!

Parklawn Family Picnic is September 6!

 To celebrate the new year, join us for our Parklawn family picnic on Friday, September 6! Families can pack their own dinner and blanket and join us outside for a picnic! Weather permitting, we hope to see you there between 5:30-7!

Upcoming Dates  

Monday, August 26: First Day of School for PreK!

Friday, August 30-Monday, September 2:  Labor Day Weekend: Student and Staff Holiday

Wednesday, September 4: Back To School Night

Friday, September 6: Parklawn Family Picnic; 5:30

Monday, September 16: 3-Hour Early Release Day (K-5) Dismissal at 12:30

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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

Panther Press for August 18, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn

Welcome Back Panthers!

We had a great time seeing families during our Parklawn Community Bus Tour and Family Reunion last week! Students and families were excited to meet their teachers, see friends, and tour the school. We can’t wait to see our students tomorrow morning on the first day of the 2024-2025 school year!

The doors open for students at 8:25 am. Our bell schedule is 8:45-3:30 each day. Families, thank you for reviewing arrival and dismissal methods with your children. It is our goal to begin reinforcing routines and procedures beginning day one. Therefore, family members will not be able to walk students to class on Monday. If your child is a bus rider, we strongly encourage you have them take the bus beginning the first day of school. Thank you!

Reminder: Early Release Monday Survey

Messages have been sent regarding the Early Release Monday Survey. Students in grades K-5 will be dismissed 3 hours early seven times throughout the school year and are encouraged to return home via their normal route.  However, we understand there may be a childcare hardship because of the early release Mondays for many of our families.  To resolve these concerns, student supervision will be available for families who need it. 

The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year:

• September 16
• October 21
• November 18
• February 10
• March 10
• April 21
• May 12

To help plan for our school’s child care needs during the early release Mondays, please complete this form: https://forms.gle/YQRzMQqpynPbfEHu5 for each of your children who are enrolled at Parklawn Elementary. The form covers the first two early release Mondays, scheduled for September 16 and October 21, 2024. If you have multiple children, you will need to submit multiple forms. Staff will confirm the after school supervision plan for each student. If you have not yet completed the survey, please do so by Monday, August 19.

Labor Day Holiday Weekend

Friday, August 30, and Monday, September 2, are Labor Day holidays for all FCPS employees and students. Virginia legislation requires that schools opening prior to Labor Day must be closed the Friday immediately preceding Labor Day. We hope everyone takes the long weekend to celebrate a strong start to the school year and enjoy time with family and friends. See the complete school year calendar.

Back to School Night is September 4

This is a time for parents/caregivers to attend and learn about the coming school year. Please see the schedule below:

 Last  name A-K families:  5:30-6:35   

Last name: L-Z families:  6:50-7:55

We hope to see you there!

Parklawn Family Picnic is September 6

 To celebrate the new year, join us for our Parklawn family picnic on Friday, September 6! Families can pack their own dinner and blanket and join us outside for a picnic! Weather permitting, we hope to see you there between 5:30-7!

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.

Upcoming Dates

Monday, August 19: First Day of School for K-5!

Monday, August 26: First Day of School for PreK!

Friday, August 30-Monday, September 2:        Labor Day Weekend: Student and Staff Holiday

Wednesday, September 4: Back To School Night

Friday, September 6: Parklawn Family Picnic; 5:30

Monday, September 16: 3-Hour Early Release Day (K-5) Dismissal at 12:30

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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

Panther Press: August Events! Popsicles on The Playground is Tomorrow! (weather permitting)

 

We invite all of our Parklawn Panthers, PreK-5, to Popsicles on the Playground! This is a great chance to reconnect with one another as we look forward to a new school year. Thank you for having a parent/care giver join your child for this event on Thursday, August 7 from 3:30-4:30 pm, weather permitting. We hope to see you there!

Panther Prowl: Staff Community Bus Tour is August 15!

On Thursday, August 15th, our Parklawn staff will taking a bus tour through our community! We will stop to visit Parklawn families at four summer hot spots:

9:35-9:50      Stop #1 Glasgow Park

10:05-10:20 Stop #2 Oakview Gardens

10:35-10:50 Stop #3 Skyline Park

11:05-11:20 Stop #4 Arbor Park 

Our times are approximate, thanks for your patience!

Parklawn Family Reunion is Friday, August 16!

We are looking forward to welcoming all of our students and families during our Family Reunion! Our Meet the Teacher/Open House event is being held on Friday, August 16. For parking purposes, we suggest families come during the following times:

Last names A-K: 10:30-11:30

Last names L-Z: 11:30-12:30

First Day of School is August 19!

School Hours are 8:45-3:30

Doors open at 8:25 for arrival!

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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

Summer Panther Press: July 21, 2024

To read in other languages please view it on the Parklawn website .

Para leer en otros idiomas, puede verla en el siti website de Parklawn.

Parklawn Summer Library Time: Two More Weeks!

The Parklawn Elementary Library is open for summer library hours on Wednesdays, 7/24 and 7/31. Join us anytime between 2:15-4:15 for story hour, crafts, and book check out. We hope to see you there!

Parklawn Welcomes Ambassador Teachers

FCPS is in its second year of its Global Exchange Program. The goal of the Global Exchange Program is to provide a diverse workforce as well as differentiated and culturally responsive learning environments which align with the pillars of our strategic plan. The program also supports FCPS Portrait of a Graduate objectives, such as helping students to be ethical and global citizens. In order to participate in the program, ambassador teachers must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in teaching or education, two years of teaching experience, a driver’s license,  be fluent in English, and commit to teaching here for five years.

Parklawn will be welcoming five ambassador teachers to our family this year:

Natasha Barrow (3rd grade): from Barbados

Nunally Broomfield  (5th grade)– from Jamaica

Kimeka Hayles-Watson (4th grade): From Jamaica

Mae Cielo Pajaron (4th grade): from Philippines

Ryan Smith (1st grade): from Barbados

They will be arriving in the U.S. this weekend and preparing for their program orientation. We can’t wait for them to join us!

Kindergarten Playdate is July 30

Kindergarteners are invited to a Summer Play Date! Join us at the Parklawn Elementary playground on Tuesday, July 30 from 10-11 am, weather permitting.. Meet new friends and enjoy a popsicle. We hope to see our kinders and their caregivers there!

Popsicles on The Playground is August 7

 

We invite all of our Parklawn Panthers, PreK-5, to Popsicles on the Playground! This is a great chance to reconnect with one another as we look forward to a new school year. Thank you for having a parent/care giver join your child for this event on Thursday, August 7 from 3:30-4:30 pm, weather permitting. We hope to see you there!

Panther Prowl: Staff Community Bus Tour is August 15!

On Thursday, August 15th, our Parklawn staff will taking a bus tour through our community! We will stop to visit Parklawn families at four summer hot spots:

9:35-9:50      Stop #1 Glasgow Park

10:05-10:20 Stop #2 Oakview Gardens

10:35-10:50 Stop #3 Skyline Park

11:05-11:20 Stop #4 Arbor Park 

Our times are approximate, thanks for your patience!

Parklawn Family Reunion is Friday, August 16!

We are looking forward to welcoming all of our students and families during our Family Reunion! Our Meet the Teacher/Open House event is being held on Friday, August 16. For parking purposes, we suggest families come during the following times:

Last names A-K: 10:30-11:30

Last names L-Z: 11:30-12:30

Parklawn PTA Message: School Supplies!

The new school year will be here before we know it, so take a moment to get a head start on back-to-school planning and order a school supply kit through Campus Survival! This is a helpful fundraiser for our PTA, with a portion of sale of each kit coming to the PTA to support our programs throughout the year. Each Campus Survival kit has all of the individual and classroom supplies your student will need for the 2024-2025 school year. Kits will be delivered directly to your student's classroom, ready for them on the first day of school.

Didn't order your school supply kit by July 15th? No worries - the ordering deadline has been extended through July 31st so you still have plenty of time to save yourself the hassle of fighting the back-to-school crowds. Plus your student's teachers will appreciate getting their classroom supplies delivered in handy bulk packaging that can easily be stored for use throughout the school year. Order online at  www.campussurvivalkits.com/parklawn. You can also fill out the order form sent home the last week of school and drop it off, with payment, to the Parklawn school office. Can't find the order form? Don't worry-- there are extra copies in the school office that you can complete. Please plan to drop off paper order forms by Tuesday July 30th so we have time to provide them to Campus Survival.

Kit pricing (tax included; a portion of each sale will come to Parklawn PTA to support our programs!):

Kindergarten: $63

1st grade: $57

2nd grade: $70

3rd grade: $63

4th grade: $70

5th grade: $64

Upcoming Dates

Tuesday, July 30: Kindergarten Play Date; 10-11 am

Wednesday, August 7: Popsicles on the Playground, PreK-grade 5: 3:30-4:30

Thursday, August 15: Community Panther Prowl!

Friday, August 16: Parklawn Family Reunion!

              10:30-11:30   Families with last names A-L

              11:30 -12:30:  Families with last names M-Z

Monday, August 19: First Day of School!

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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

Panther Press: 6/30 Summer Edition! Parklawn is a Summer Meal Site!

Fairfax County Public Schools is providing free meals this summer to all children and teens 18 and under at select schools.

The meals will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis regardless of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), or disability. 

The breakfast menu includes milk (fat-free or 1 percent), fruit (apple, orange, or banana), and cereal (Cheerios, Chex, or reduced-sugar Cinnamon Toast Crunch).

Lunch items vary throughout the week. Examples include a sandwich or build-your-pizza, fruit, a raw vegetable, and milk.

Parklawn ES will be a meal site July 8-26.  Breakfast will be served 9-10 a.m.; lunch is noon-1 p.m. Meals will not be served on July 4 and 5.

Parklawn Summer Library Time

The Parklawn Elementary Library is open for summer library hours on Wednesdays (7/10, 7/17, 7/24, 7/31) throughout the month of July! Join us anytime between 2:15-4:15 for story hour, crafts, and book check out. We hope to see you there!

School Office Closed July 3-5

Parklawn’s summer office hours are 9-2 through August 2. However, the office will be closed on Wednesday, July 3-Friday July 5. Happy Independence Day!

Message from the PTA: School Supplies Ordering!

We hope you are all enjoying the warm months, but the new school year will be here before we know it! Get a head start on planning, and support our PTA, by ordering your student's school supplies through Campus Survival.  No need to spend time running to multiple stores and fighting crowds-- Campus Survival has put together all of the supplies your student will need for the 2024-25 school year. Plus, a portion of the price for each kit will come to our Parklawn PTA to support programs for families, students, and staff next year.

Order online at www.campussurvivalkits.com/parklawn. You can also fill out the order form sent home the last week of school and drop it off, with payment, to the Parklawn school office. Can't find the order form? Don't worry-- there are extra copies in the school office that you can complete. Order by July 15!

Kit pricing (tax included; a portion of each sale will come to Parklawn PTA to support our programs!):

Kindergarten: $63

1st grade: $57

2nd grade: $70

3rd grade: $63

4th grade: $70

5th grade: $64

Upcoming Dates

Friday, August 16: Parklawn Family Reunion!

              10:30-11:30   Families with last names A-L

              11:30 -12:30:  Families with last names M-Z

Monday, August 19: First Day of School!

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter