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Panther Press for February 16, 2025

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Presidents Day (Holiday)

All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 17, for the Presidents Day holiday. See the complete school year calendar.

Presidents Day, officially recognized in the United States, is celebrated on the third Monday in February each year. It is a time to honor and remember the birthdays and achievements of the country's most distinguished leaders, and to reflect on the president's role in shaping the nation's history and development. Students should have the opportunity to engage in meaningful and enduring learning experiences that explore the remarkable history and impactful contributions of American presidents.

Book Fair is Almost Here!

The book fair is starting this week at Parklawn! The book fair will be held from Thursday, February 20 - Friday, February 28. Each class will visit the book fair twice, once to preview items and the second time to purchase. 

Families are welcome to shop at the book fair Tuesday, February 25 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm or Thursday, February 27 4:00 pm - 7:30 pm. Join us from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm  on February 27 for math night as well! 

The book fair will accept cash, check (payable to the school), credit cards and eWallet. eWallet is a cashless payment option where money can be added to a virtual account for students to use. Please note that tax WILL NOT be charged on items this year. More information about setting up an eWallet account and our fair is available at the book fair homepage: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/parklawnes This link can also be used to shop the fair online until 3/5.

The book is always in need of volunteers. Sign up for a slot at https://bit.ly/parklawnbf25, and information about the positions are available at that link as well. Again this year: ALL adult volunteers will get a free item of choice for their volunteering. Remember all proceeds from the book fair support our school! Any questions about the book can be directed to Rachel Zamudio at [email protected]. Thank you for your support of our book fair!

Math Night is February 27!

Parklawn's Math Night is Thursday, February 27 from 6-7:30 pm. Come as a family and enjoy math games and learning fun! The book fair will also be open during this time. We hope to see you there!

🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community From the Flu

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.

PTA Meeting and Bingo Night!

Bingo Night is on Friday February 21 from 6pm - 7:30pm! We are collecting many exciting items for our raffle and are looking for volunteers to help during the event—check out our sign up sheet here Parklawn PTA Volunteers: 2025 Bingo Night and let us know if you can help. All volunteers will receive five raffle tickets for each 30-minute slot they sign up for!  This year we are accepting pre-sale orders on our Givebacks website. Avoid the lines and be able to pick up your BINGO cards and raffle tickets when you arrive. All Bingo winners will be able to select a prize.This is a fun tradition at Parklawn that you won't want to miss!

Also, join us for the February Parklawn Parent Teacher Association (PTA) meeting! The meeting will be Thursday, February 20, from 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. It will be held virtually. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81738483643?pwd=tquufdsCOol3OaamoTJEBhEO1R2jLb.1

Upcoming Dates

February 17: Presidents Day; No School

February 20: PTA Meeting; Virtual 5 -6 pm

February 20-28: Bookfair

February 21: PTA Bingo Night!

February 27: Math Night and Evening Book Fair

March 10: Early Release Monday; 12:30 dismissal

 

 

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for February 9, 2025

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February 10: Early Release Monday

Reminder! Monday, February 10 is Parklawn's Early Release Monday with the three-hour early dismissal at 12:30 pm. Student dismissal plans confirmed for this Monday will be followed.

Perfect 10 Community Meetings!

Last week Parklawn Panthers participated in our first quarterly community meetings! Students across grade levels came together to kick off the third quarter. We discussed how attendance matters and celebrated our monthly grade level attendance winners throughout the school year. We are excited to announce that third grade was a January grade level winner!

In the month of January, we once again had over 500 students  at school for 10 consecutive days without being absent or tardy. They joined our raffle with our December Perfect 10 recipients. Fourteen students in grades PreK-5th grade are joining Mrs. Forgy for an ice cream celebration scheduled for February 11. 

Our February Perfect 10 competition will run from February 10-February 24. Let's see if we can beat our record of 543 Perfect 10 award winners!

February Family Coffee: Math Time!

Join us for the next Parklawn Parent Coffee on February 13th from 4:00-4:45 in the library.

The Math Team will share a little bit about what math instruction looks like in Parklawn classrooms as well as presenting ideas on how to promote a love of mathematics.

Come join the fun as we engage in math games together and learn games that you can play with your student at home.

Monthly Market is February 13!

Come visit Parklawn’s Monthly Family Market , February 13 at 5 pm! We’re partnering with the @Capital Area Food Bank to offer fresh produce and dry goods to members of the Parklawn school community, free of charge. Groceries are available on a first‑come first‑serve basis. We'll see you there!

Presidents Day (Holiday)

All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 17, for the Presidents Day holiday. See the complete school year calendar.

🧸 Kindergarten Registration: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3…

There’s an easy five-step process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:

1. Determine eligibility. 
2. Identify your local school. 
3. Gather documents. 
4. Fill out forms. 
5. Schedule an appointment.

After the appointment at the school (the student and one guardian must be present), the student will be ready for Parklawn's Kindergarten Orientation, being held April 1st at 1 pm!  Read more about the registration process. For additional information, please contact Lanh Nguyen, our school registrar.

💻 Try Online Registration

Online registration for the 2025-26 school year is open. Parents/caregivers may register their children online for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process. 

When registering, parents/caregivers will need to create or log in to an existing SIS ParentVUE account. 

Book Fair is Coming this Month!

We’re so excited the book fair is coming soon to Parklawn Elementary! The book fair will be held February 20 - February 28 in the library, with set-up taking place Wednesday, February 19. Each class will visit the book fair twice. Once on Thursday, Friday, or Monday to preview the selection and a second time Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday to purchase items. Hours of the book fair will be coming in a Panther Press and letter home soon! 

The book fair will accept cash, check (payable to the school), credit cards and eWallet. eWallet is a cashless payment option where money can be added to a virtual account for students to use. Please note that tax WILL NOT be charged on items this year. More information about setting up an eWallet account and our fair is available at the book fair homepage: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/parklawnes This link can also be used to shop the fair online until March 5.

The book fair is always in need of volunteers. There are a variety of positions available, including assisting students, cashiers, set up and clean up. Sign up for a slot at https://bit.ly/parklawnbf25. Students in grade 5 or older are welcome during set up and clean up slots for assisting. Mrs. Zamudio can sign off on community service forms for middle or high schoolers as needed. Again, this year: ALL adult volunteers will get a free item of choice for their volunteering. Remember all proceeds from the book fair support our school’s classroom libraries and the school library. Any questions about the book fair can be directed to Rachel Zamudio at [email protected]. Thank you for your support of our book fair!

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Countywide lottery registration for the Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program for first graders in the 2025-26 school year is open through Thursday, February 13, at 4 p.m. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program through Thursday, March 6, at 4 p.m.  

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Interested parents/caregivers may attend an informational meeting at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more details on the DLI Program webpage.

Upcoming Dates

February 10: Early Release Monday; Dismissal at 12:30

February 13: Family Coffee, 4-4:45 pm

February 13: Monthly Market; 5-7 pm

February 14: Valentines Day

February 17: Presidents Day; No School

February 20: PTA Meeting; Virtual 5 -6 pm

February 20-28: Bookfair

February 21: PTA Bingo Night!

February 27: Math Night and Evening Book Fair

 

 

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for February 2, 2025

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February is Black History Month

Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about Black History month.

February 3-7 is National School Counseling Week!

February 3-7 is National School Counseling Week, and highlights the tremendous impact school counselors have in helping students achieve academic success and planning for a career. School counselors work with students in a variety of different capacities, whether it is through classroom lessons, group sessions, or individual counseling. Parkawn is lucky to have three of the BEST! Thank you Ms. Fobert, Mr.Kim, and Ms. Sharpton for all you do for our community! Learn more about the role of school counselors in FCPS.

February 10: Early Release Monday

Monday, February 10 is Parklawn's Early Release Monday with a 12:30 dismissal. Last week, Mrs. Forgy sent out eNotify reminders of confirmed dismissal plans. If you have any questions, please call the main office at (703) 914-6900.

February Family Coffee: Math Time!

Join us for the next Parklawn Parent Coffee on February 13th from 4:00-4:45 in the library.

The Math Team will share a little bit about what math instruction looks like in Parklawn classrooms as well as presenting ideas on how to promote a love of mathematics.

Come join the fun as we engage in math games together and learn games that you can play with your student at home.

Monthly Market is February 13!

Come visit Parklawn’s Monthly Family Market , February 13 at 5 pm! We’re partnering with the @Capital Area Food Bank to offer fresh produce and dry goods to members of the Parklawn school community, free of charge. Groceries are available on a first‑come first‑serve basis. We'll see you there!

Book Fair is Coming this Month!

We’re so excited the book fair is coming soon to Parklawn Elementary! The book fair will be held February 20 - February 28 in the library, with set-up taking place Wednesday, February 19. Each class will visit the book fair twice. Once on Thursday, Friday, or Monday to preview the selection and a second time Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday to purchase items. Hours of the book fair will be coming in a Panther Press and letter home soon! 

The book fair will accept cash, check (payable to the school), credit cards and eWallet. eWallet is a cashless payment option where money can be added to a virtual account for students to use. Please note that tax WILL NOT be charged on items this year. More information about setting up an eWallet account and our fair is available at the book fair homepage: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/parklawnes This link can also be used to shop the fair online until March 5.

The book fair is always in need of volunteers. There are a variety of positions available, including assisting students, cashiers, set up and clean up. Sign up for a slot at https://bit.ly/parklawnbf25. Students in grade 5 or older are welcome during set up and clean up slots for assisting. Mrs. Zamudio can sign off on community service forms for middle or high schoolers as needed. Again, this year: ALL adult volunteers will get a free item of choice for their volunteering. Remember all proceeds from the book fair support our school’s classroom libraries and the school library. Any questions about the book fair can be directed to Rachel Zamudio at [email protected]. Thank you for your support of our book fair!

Upcoming Dates

February 10: Early Release Monday; Dismissal at 12:30

February 13: Family Coffee, 4-4:45 pm

February 13: Monthly Market; 5-7 pm

February 14: Valentines Day

February 17: Presidents Day; No School

February 20: PTA Meeting; Virtual 5 -6 pm

February 21: PTA Bingo Night!

 

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for January 26, 2025

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Quarter End, Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year falls at quarter end on Wednesday, January 29. The day will be a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. Wishing good fortune to those in our community who celebrate Lunar New Year! For those in many East and Southeast Asian countries, including Pacific Islanders, the Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays of the year and is all about ushering in luck and prosperity with family.

February 10: Early Release Monday

Monday, February 10 is Parklawn's Early Release Monday with a 12:30 dismissal. Mrs. Forgy will send out an eNotify to all families this week reminding them of their confirmed dismissal plan for students.

Proposed Budget Presented to School Board

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid presented the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget at the School Board meeting on Thursday, January 23. Watch a video of the presentation. 

The proposed budget reflects FCPS’ continued focus on providing a world-class education for each and every student while recognizing the hard work and commitment of our outstanding employees. The budget focuses on competitive compensation — including a 7% salary increase for all staff — investing in students who require additional support, and the continuation of multiyear investments. It reflects the needs of and FCPS’ commitments to Fairfax County students, families, and community members. Learn more on the Budget website.

🏗️ FCPS’ Proposed Construction Projects Offer Community-Wide Benefits

Fairfax County Public Schools’ updated plans for new school construction, capacity enhancements, and renovations are outlined in the proposed FY 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Projects include constructing two new elementary schools; renovations at 18 elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools; and relocation of modular buildings.

The proposed CIP was presented to the School Board at the January 14 work session. A public hearing was also held January 14. The School Board will take action on the proposed CIP at its Thursday, February 6 meeting

Upcoming Dates

 

January 28: End of 2nd Quarter

January 29: Student Holiday; Teacher Work Day

February 10: Early Release Monday; Dismissal at 12:30

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for January 19, 2025

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Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday

Schools and offices will be closed on Monday, January 20, for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday.  Today On this day we honor and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his dedication to equality and serving others.See the complete school year calendar.

Second Quarter Ends

Tuesday, January 28, is the last day of the quarter. This is NOT an early release day. Wednesday, January 29 is a Teacher Workday and a student Holiday. See the complete school year calendar.

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Winter weather is here! As a reminder, please make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy time outdoors. We monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside for activities like recess or physical education.

Visit Fairfax County’s website for Winter Weather/Extreme Cold safety tips. 

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please contact our family liaisons, Afifa Bolte, at [email protected]  and Khalida Jawaid at [email protected] .You may also contact Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

Upcoming Dates

January 20: Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday/Inauguration Day: No School

January 28: End of 2nd Quarter

January 29: Student Holiday; Teacher Work Day

February 10: Early Release Monday; Dismissal at 12:30

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for January 12, 2025

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Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday

Schools and offices will be closed on Monday, January 20, for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday. See the complete school year calendar.

Parklawn’s “Perfect 10” Panthers!

At Parklawn, we’re dedicated to reducing chronic absenteeism and fostering a culture of consistent attendance. This means encouraging every student to be here, every day. Through our "Perfect 10" program, we look forward to recognizing students who achieve ten consecutive days of perfect attendance without tardies. 

With the snow this week, round two will be January 13-January 27! Let’s see if we can have even more Panthers receive a Perfect 10. Let’s start 2025 strong as we return from winter break!

Monthly Market is Now January 16!

Due to the snow, our monthly market is rescheduled for January 16 at 5 pm! We’re partnering with the @Capital Area Food Bank to offer fresh produce and dry goods to members of the Parklawn school community, free of charge. Groceries are available on a first‑come first‑serve basis. We'll see you there!

Parklawn PTA Meeting: New Time!

Our PTA meeting is this Thursday, January 16! With the monthly market now being held on the same day, The PTA meeting will be from 4-5 pm. We hope you join us in the library!

Upcoming Dates

 

January 16: PTA Meeting, 4-5 pm in the library

January 16: Monthly Family Market; 5-7 pm

January 20: Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday/Inauguration Day: No School

January 28: End of 2nd Quarter

January 29: Student Holiday; Teacher Work Day

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for January 5, 2025

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Happy New Year to our entire Parklawn Family! May 2025 be a year filled with good health, family, friends and fun for all!

Parklawn’s December “Perfect 10” Panthers!

At Parklawn, we’re dedicated to reducing chronic absenteeism and fostering a culture of consistent attendance. This means encouraging every student to be here, every day. Through our "Perfect 10" program, we look forward to recognizing students who achieve ten consecutive days of perfect attendance without tardies. 

During our first round of Perfect 10 from December 6th-December 19th, we had 543 students awarded this honor! Congratulations! We can’t wait for round two, January 6-January 17! Let’s see if we can have even more Panthers receive a Perfect 10. Let’s start 2025 strong as we return from winter break!

January's Family Coffee: Math Time!

Join us for the next Parklawn Parent Coffee on January 9th from 4:00-4:45 in the library.

The Math Team will share a little bit about what math instruction looks like in Parklawn classrooms as well as presenting ideas on how to promote a love of mathematics.

Come join the fun as we engage in math games together and learn games that you can play with your student at home.

Monthly Market is January 9!

Come visit Parklawn’s Monthly Family Market , January 9 at 5 pm! We’re partnering with the @Capital Area Food Bank to offer fresh produce and dry goods to members of the Parklawn school community, free of charge. Groceries are available on a first‑come first‑serve basis. We'll see you there!

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible, including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated.

Be among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform. 

Upcoming Dates

January 6: Return to school

January 9: Family Coffee with the math team, 4 pm

January 9: Monthly Family Market

January 16: PTA Meeting, 5 pm

January 20: Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday/Inauguration Day: No School

January 28: End of 2nd Quarter

January 29: Student Holiday; Teacher Work Day

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for December 22, 2024

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Winter Break 12/23 - 1/3

As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. 

Parklawn's main office will also be closed during the entire winter break.

We hope you all have a wonderful break filled with fun, family, and friends! Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, and Happy New Year for all who are celebrating!

We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year. Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar.

Parklawn’s December “Perfect 10” Panthers!

At Parklawn, we’re dedicated to reducing chronic absenteeism and fostering a culture of consistent attendance. This means encouraging every student to be here, every day. Through our "Perfect 10" program, we look forward to recognizing students who achieve ten consecutive days of perfect attendance without tardies. 

During our first round of Perfect 10 from December 6th-December 19th, we had 543 students awarded this honor! Congratulations! We can’t wait for round two, January 6-January 17! Let’s see if we can have even more Panthers receive a Perfect 10. Let’s start 2025 strong as we return from winter break!

January's Family Coffee: Math Time!

Join us for the next Parklawn Parent Coffee on January 9th from 4:00-4:45 in the library.

The Math Team will share a little bit about what math instruction looks like in Parklawn classrooms as well as presenting ideas on how to promote a love of mathematics.

Come join the fun as we engage in math games together and learn games that you can play with your student at home.

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for FCPS’ Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2024-25 school year. 

Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. 

Parents/caregivers who are interested may want to attend an informational meeting held at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program Registration page for a list of meetings by language offered. 

Get more information on the DLI Program webpage and the DLI Program Registration webpage.

❄️ Be Among the First to Hear About School Delays/Closings

Watch this video to see how FCPS makes weather closing decisions. 

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible, including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated.

Be among the first to hear about weather delays and closings! Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE. Emails and text messages are sent to parents and caregivers based on the addresses and cell phone numbers entered on this platform. 

Upcoming Dates

 

December 23 - January 3: Winter Break (office closed)

January 6: Return to school

January 9: Family Coffee with the math team, 4 pm

January 9: Monthly Family Market

January 20: Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday/Inauguration Day: No School

 

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for December 15, 2024

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Winter Break 12/23 - 1/3

As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. 

Parklawn's main office will also be closed during the entire winter break.

We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year.Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar.

Lost and Found

Our lost and found is overflowing!  We will have it displayed in the front hall from Wednesday through Friday and have all classes walk by in hopes of getting items returned to their owner.  Any items left at the end of the day on Friday will be bagged up and donated. 

⛄Student and Family Resources

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue! 

FCPS encourages students to take advantage of fun learning opportunities during winter break and snow days. Consider these winter activities to blend education and play for your students during winter break or weather-related school closures.

Honoring Parklawn's Outstanding Employees!

We have an amazing staff at Parklawn Elementary! We celebrated our nominees for the FCPS Outstanding Employee Awards!

Outstanding Operational Employee: Afifa Bolte, Family Liaison

Outstanding New Teacher: Robert Penn, 4th grade

Outstanding Teacher: Sheila Thompson, 5th grade

Outstanding Teacher Nominees: Bethany Farrell (ESOL) Chelsea Maddox (ESOL), and Erin Nowicki (2nd grade)

Upcoming Dates

 

December 23 - January 3: Winter Break (office closed)

January 6: Return to school

January 9: Family Coffee with the math team, 4 pm

January 9: Monthly Family Market

January 20: Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday/Inauguration Day: No School

 

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for December 8, 2024

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Pajama Day and Snuggle Up and Read Night is Tuesday!

Parklawn Elementary will host our annual Snuggle Up and Read Night on  Tuesday, December 10th, 2024, from 6:00-7:30. Wear your pajamas and join us for a fun night of reading with your family and friends. Parents can learn tips to help their child with reading and writing.  All children will choose a free book to take home.

To celebrate this fun event, we will have a Parklawn Pajama Day! Students and staff are welcome to wear their pajamas to school during the day!

Parklawn Elementary School Boundary Study In-Person Community Meeting is December 11!

The public is invited to provide input on the scope of a boundary study to address capacity challenges at Parklawn Elementary School. The in-person meeting will be held Wednesday, December 11, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. We will meet in the cafeteria, entering through door 1.

Additional information and a link to sign up for the Parklawn project email list are available on the Parklawn Boundary Study webpage. Communication about this ongoing work will also be shared by the school and your School Board representative, Dr. Ricardy Anderson.

Fairfax County Public Schools is also conducting a divisionwide review of school boundaries. The first set of community meetings for this larger effort will take place between mid-November and mid-December. The meetings for Parklawn Elementary School are separate from the divisionwide review. 

Monthly Market is December 12!

Come visit Parklawn’s December Family Market Thursday, December 12 at 5 pm! We’re partnering with the @Capital Area Food Bank to offer fresh produce and dry goods to members of the Parklawn school community, free of charge. Groceries are available on a first‑come first‑serve basis. We'll see you there!

FLE Parent Preview Session

Students in grades K-5 participate in Family Life Education (FLE). Students receive instruction in a human growth and development unit and an emotional and social health unit.  For more information about the FCPS Family Life Education program, please see the detailed grade-level program descriptions https://www.fcps.edu/academics/curriculum/subject-area/family-life-education-fle#:~:text=Instruction%20promotes%20parental%20involvement%2C%20fosters,at%20a%20particular%20grade%20level.

Parents/Guardians are invited to attend an opportunity to preview the Family Life Education media and lessons and to talk with school staff about the program. The meeting will be held on December 12 at 4 pm in the Parklawn Library. All program materials and media for all grade levels will be available for your review at this time.

November Attendance Competition

Our students at Parklawn know attendance matters! Our monthly grade level competition is complete for November. Which grade level wins for the best attendance last month? Check out the video below as our social worker, Ms. Catherine Lartey, shares the winner!

https://youtu.be/2nz1qDX29kI

 

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener Results Coming Soon

Students in grades 3-12 took the SEL Screener during the month of October, providing information on their SEL skills like achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships, and making responsible decisions. The screener also asks students how well their school community makes them feel valued, included, and supported. Individual student SEL Screener results are now available to families in the Documents section of SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results can be sent via postal mail.

For support in understanding your individual student’s results or for ideas on how to support them at home, please review the Family Guide or reach out to our school staff with any questions.

Upcoming Dates

Tuesday, December 10: Snuggle Up and Read Night

Wednesday, December 11: In-person Parklawn Boundary Study Meeting (cafeteria) 6:30-7:30 pm

Thursday, December 12: FLE Parent Preview; 4-4:45 pm

Thursday, December 12: December Family Market

December 21 - January 5: Winter Break (office closed)

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for December 1, 2024

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Attendance Matters! Celebrating small successes at Parklawn with our "Perfect 10" program!

At Parklawn, we’re dedicated to reducing chronic absenteeism and fostering a culture of consistent attendance. This means encouraging every student to be here, every day. Through our "Perfect 10" program, we look forward to recognizing students who achieve ten consecutive days of perfect attendance without tardies. 

All students who achieve a Perfect 10 will be celebrated, plus they will be entered into a chance to win a special celebration with Ms. Forgy! Our first round of Perfect 10 will go from December 6th-December 19th. Remember, every day counts! Consistent attendance not only helps students stay on track academically but also gives them the chance to participate in exciting incentives like our Perfect 10 celebration!

Picture Retake Day is December 6

Picture retake day is Friday, December 6.

Any student who was absent on picture day or is new to Parklawn can have their picture taken.

Any student wishing a retake must bring their original portrait package to the camera and return it to the photographer.

Pajama Day and Snuggle Up and Read Night is December 10!

Parklawn Elementary will host our annual Snuggle Up and Read Night on  Tuesday, December 10th, 2024, from 6:00-7:30. Wear your pajamas and join us for a fun night of reading with your family and friends. Parents can learn tips to help their child with reading and writing.  All children will choose a free book to take home.

To celebrate this fun event, we will have a Parklawn Pajama Day! Students and staff are welcome to wear their pajamas to school during the day!

Parklawn Elementary School Boundary Study In-Person Community Meeting is December 11!

The public is invited to provide input on the scope of a boundary study to address capacity challenges at Parklawn Elementary School. The in-person meeting will be held Wednesday, December 11, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. We will meet in the cafeteria, entering through door 1.

Additional information and a link to sign up for the Parklawn project email list are available on the Parklawn Boundary Study webpage. Communication about this ongoing work will also be shared by the school and your School Board representative, Dr. Ricardy Anderson.

Fairfax County Public Schools is also conducting a divisionwide review of school boundaries. The first set of community meetings for this larger effort will take place between mid-November and mid-December. The meetings for Parklawn Elementary School are separate from the divisionwide review. 

Monthly Market is December 12!

Come visit Parklawn’s December Family Market Thursday, December 12 at 5 pm! We’re partnering with the @Capital Area Food Bank to offer fresh produce and dry goods to members of the Parklawn school community, free of charge. Groceries are available on a first‑come first‑serve basis. We'll see you there!

Upcoming Dates

Friday, December 6: Picture Retake Day

Tuesday, December 10: Snuggle Up and Read Night

Wednesday, December 11: In-person Parklawn Boundary Study Meeting (cafeteria) 6:30-7:30 pm

Thursday, December 12: December Family Market

December 21 - January 5: Winter Break

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for November 24, 2024

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Happy Thanksgiving!

Schools and offices will be closed November 27-29. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Classes will resume on Monday, December 2. Learn more about the first Thanksgiving. 

Reminder: Parklawn Elementary School Boundary Study Community Meetings

The public is invited to provide input on the scope of a boundary study to address capacity challenges at Parklawn Elementary School. Two community meetings, one virtual and one in person, will be held during the next few weeks: 

• Monday, November 25, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.Virtual via Zoom – Register here. For virtual meetings, registration is required to receive the Zoom link.
• Wednesday, December 11, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.In person - Parklawn Elementary School - Cafeteria, Door 1

Each meeting will include the same presentation and feedback opportunities. Language interpretation will be available at both meetings.

Additional information and a link to sign up for the Parklawn project email list are available on the Parklawn Boundary Study webpage. Communication about this ongoing work will also be shared by the school and your School Board representative, Dr. Ricardy Anderson.

Fairfax County Public Schools is also conducting a divisionwide review of school boundaries. The first set of community meetings for this larger effort will take place between mid-November and mid-December. The meetings for Parklawn Elementary School are separate from the divisionwide review. 

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated. 

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Snuggle Up and Read Night!

Parklawn Elementary will host our annual Snuggle Up and Read Night on  Tuesday, December 10th, 2024, from 6:00-7:30. Wear your pajamas and join us for a fun night of reading with your family and friends. Parents can learn tips to help their child with reading and writing.  All children will choose a free book to take home.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

We will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.

If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health car

Picture Retake Day is December 6

Picture retake day is Friday, December 6.

Any student who was absent on picture day or is new to Parklawn can have their picture taken.

Any student wishing a retake must bring their original portrait package to the camera and return it to the photographer.

Upcoming Dates

 

Monday, November 25: Virtual Parklawn Boundary Study Meeting 6:30-7:30 pm

November 27-November 29: Thanksgiving Break

Friday, December 6: Picture Retake Day

Tuesday, December 10: Snuggle Up and Read Night

Wednesday, December 11: In-person Parklawn Boundary Study Meeting (cafeteria) 6:30-7:30 pm

Thursday, December 12: December Family Market

December 21 - January 5: Winter Break

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for November 17, 2024

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Monday is a 3-hour Early Dismissal!

Parklawn's next 3 hour early release is scheduled for Monday, November 18th. An eNotify was sent out to all families 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.

📍 FCPS Comprehensive Boundary Review Community Meetings

Community meetings regarding FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will take place in each of the division's six regions. You are encouraged to attend the meeting in our region, which will take place on Monday, November 18 from 6:30-8 pm. 

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

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

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

Parklawn's Thanksgiving Luncheon

The annual Thanksgiving Luncheon is this week! What a great way to celebrate National Family Engagement Day! Families are welcome to join their children for the luncheon on Thursday, November 21.  The price for each meal is $4.75 per guest, which includes all non-Parklawn children and adults. We will accept cash only. You also may bring your own lunch or choose not to participate in the meal. All meals must be prepaid using the payment form being sent home. The payment and pre-payment form must be returned by Monday, November 18.  No payments will be accepted at the door.  Please review the grade level meal schedules located on the back of the flyer sent home in the Tuesday folder.

Parklawn Elementary School Boundary Study Community Meetings

The public is invited to provide input on the scope of a boundary study to address capacity challenges at Parklawn Elementary School. Two community meetings, one virtual and one in person, will be held during the next few weeks: 

• Monday, November 25, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.Virtual via Zoom – Register here. For virtual meetings, registration is required to receive the Zoom link.
• Wednesday, December 11, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.In person - Parklawn Elementary School - Cafeteria, Door 1

Each meeting will include the same presentation and feedback opportunities. Language interpretation will be available at both meetings.

Additional information and a link to sign up for the Parklawn project email list are available on the Parklawn Boundary Study webpage. Communication about this ongoing work will also be shared by the school and your School Board representative, Dr. Ricardy Anderson.

Fairfax County Public Schools is also conducting a divisionwide review of school boundaries. The first set of community meetings for this larger effort will take place between mid-November and mid-December. The meetings for Parklawn Elementary School are separate from the divisionwide review. 

Reminder: Window for Full-time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15

Parents/guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for full-time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to Mrs.Forgy or Kristen Gluck ([email protected]), AART,  no later than December 15.

The window for families to submit a referral for full-time AAP services is the first day of school through December 15, annually.  Forms for full-time and part-time referrals are available on the AAP Forms Page. No late referrals for Full-Time AAP services will be accepted. 

Message from The PTA

November PTA Meeting: Join us for the November Parklawn Parent Teacher Association (PTA) meeting! The meeting will be Thursday, November 21, from 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. It will be held virtually. Here is the link to join the meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5389136171?pwd=cO3qe9UwG5iJFFX0ke0wWDNug2y6wK.1&omn=87115333961

 

Upcoming Dates

Monday, November 18: Three Hour Early Release Monday; Dismissal is at 12:30 pm

Monday, November 18: County Boundary Study Community Meeting, Glasgow MS 6:30-8 pm

Thursday, November 21: Thanksgiving Luncheon

Monday, November 25: Virtual Parklawn Boundary Study Community Meeting, 6:30 pm

Wednesday, November 27-Friday, November 29: Thanksgiving Break

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for November 10, 2024

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Veterans Day is November 11

As a reminder, there is no school Monday, November 11 for the Veterans Day holiday. Veterans Day provides a great reason to pause, reflect, and recognize the extraordinary sacrifices our Veterans and their families have made on our behalf, and we thank them for their service. We thank all those in our Parklawn Community who served!

As part of our Veterans Day commemoration, Parklawn is participating in a  school-wide letter writing event through Operation Gratitude. This organization will distribute our letters to veterans and active members of the military. 

November Family Coffee

Our November Family Coffee is this Thursday, November 14 from 4:00-4:45. We will meet in the library before the market begins!

Come join our Wellness Team to hear all of the exciting things we are doing to support student wellness at Parklawn. You will leave with tips and strategies you can use at home, as well as some prizes! 

Monthly Family Market is November 14

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. Doors open at 5 pm and groceries are available on a first-come first-serve basis. You are encouraged to bring bags/baskets to carry home groceries. We’ll see you there!

Parklawn Thanksgiving Luncheon

The annual Thanksgiving Luncheon is this week! Families are welcome to join their children for the luncheon on Thursday, November 21.  The price for each meal is $4.75 per guest, which includes all non-Parklawn children and adults. We will accept cash only. You also may bring your own lunch or choose not to participate in the meal. All meals must be prepaid using the payment form being sent home. The payment and pre-payment form must be returned by Monday, November 18. If you did not send your form yet and would still like to do so, our school office is open both Monday and Tuesday. Your lunch tickets will be ready for you at the school on the day of the event. No payments will be accepted at the door.  Some classes will eat in the cafeteria, and some will eat in the gym. Please review the grade level meal schedules located on the back of the flyer being sent home in the Tuesday folder.

📍 Boundary Review Community Meetings Start This Month

As a reminder, FCPS has started the process of reviewing school boundaries across the division. This important work will help the district better support student population growth, changes in school capacity, and evolving community needs. Community input is vital to this process. With that in mind, FCPS, in partnership with Thru Consulting, will be hosting a series of community meetings in each of FCPS’ six regions. Participants are encouraged to share their thoughts, ask questions, and learn more about the boundary review process. The first meeting is Monday, November 18 from 6:30-8 pm at Glasgow MS.

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

National Family Engagement Month

This month reminds us that families are children's first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers. Strong family support is vital to student well-being and success. 

FCPS has many resources designed to increase engagement and partnerships with families while fostering academic success and social-emotional growth.

Additionally, every school has a family liaison who will welcome and orient families, and help them understand the school's culture, policies, procedures, and practices. We actually have two at Parklawn, Afifa Bolte and Khalida Jawaid! They can help connect families to resources in the community. Family liaisons might also assist a family in transitioning to a new school and encourage family-school partnerships to help ensure their student's success and healthy development. 

If you have questions or would like more information, ask your school office to connect you with your family liaison or visit FCPS’ website for a list of region representatives.

Upcoming Dates

 

Monday, November 11: Veterans Day Holiday; No School

Thursday, November 14: Family Coffee, 4-4:45

Thursday, November 14: Monthly Family Market

Monday, November 18: Three Hour Early Release Monday; Dismissal is at 12:30 pm

Monday, November 21: Thanksgiving Luncheon

Wednesday, November 27-Friday, November 29: Thanksgiving Break

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter

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Panther Press for November 3, 2024

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Daylight Saving Time Ends (Fall Back)

This Sunday, November 3, at 2 a.m., daylight saving time ends. Don’t forget to move your clocks back one hour!

FCPS Calendar Reminders

Monday, November 4 is a School Planning Day. There is no school for students.

Don’t forget to get out and vote on Tuesday, November 5! The day will be observed as a holiday for students and a teacher work day. For more information, visit the Virginia Department of Elections webpage. See the complete school year calendar.

Monday, November 11, is Veterans Day and schools will be closed for students.

Native American Heritage Month

Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native Americans. It is also a time to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges they have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Monthly Family Market is November 14

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. Doors open at 5 pm and groceries are available on a first-come first-serve basis. You are encouraged to bring bags/baskets to carry home groceries. We’ll see you there!

Parklawn ES is on Instagram!

Looking to see more about what is happening at Parklawn? You can now follow us on Instagram! Search for us as parklawnfcps ! We will no longer post on X, but you can still follow us on our Facebook page, Parklawn Elementary School.

Elementary School Language Arts Grading Updates

Our teachers have been hard at work teaching with the new Language Arts curriculum, and we are excited to help all of our students become strong readers and writers! This year we also have new assessments, which is how we check if your student needs extra help with reading and writing, and new Standards of Learning (SOLs).

Because of these changes, we are now teaching all of the Language Arts skills your child needs to know (and checking if they need extra help) throughout the whole school year, instead of different skills each quarter. While these skills will be new to your child in the beginning of the year, the goal is for your child to grow strong in all of their new skills by the end of the year.

This means that when you get your child’s progress report next month, it might look different. Your child’s teacher will give you more information on the new progress reporting and how we’re making sure your child is getting any extra help they might need. You can also find more information on FCPS’ Grading and Reporting webpage.

We will also have new ways for you to help your child practice their reading and writing skills at home. These resources are coming soon!

FCPS Outstanding Employee Awards

Is there a Parklawn staff member you believe is deserving of an FCPS Outstanding Staff Award? Is there someone that has gone above and beyond to better you or your child’s experience with school? Consider nominating a Parklawn staff member for an award! To nominate someone, please fill out the Google form with their name and how they meet the criteria by November 8. If you have any questions about the awards, nominations, or would like to submit a nomination in another language please contact the awards liaison Rachel Zamudio at [email protected].

Upcoming Dates

Monday, November 4: School Planning Day; No School For Students

Tuesday, November 5: Election Day and Teacher Work Day; No school for students

Monday, November 11: Veterans Day Holiday; No School

Thursday, November 14: Monthly Family Market

Monday, November 18: Three Hour Early Release Monday; Dismissal is at 12:30 pm

4116 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312  |  Phone: 703.914.6900

Attendance: [email protected] | Web | Twitter