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Dear Fox Mill Families,

On behalf of the staff of Fox Mill ES, we hope that this special time of year brings you the opportunity to create cherished memories with loved ones and family.

Please stay safe, spend time with families and friends and be prepared to share memorable stories and photos when we see each other on January 6th.

 

Brian Moose      Anice S. Denton

Principal             Assistant Principal

 

 

 

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendar
• Fox Mill calendar
• Lunch Menus
• Attendance
• Fox Mill PTA

2611 Viking Drive, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 703.262.2700

Attendance: 703.262.2727 | Web | Twitter

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

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Happy Friday Fox Mill Families,

We hope you had a wonderful week. It was quite a busy week at Fox Mill. We would like to thank all of our staff and the PTA for another successful Books and Bingo night. A special thank you to our librarian, Sarah Slusher, for working tirelessly to ensure a smooth week at our Book Fair. 

We would also like to thank our teachers in the music department for two outstanding performances. Our chorus concert on Tuesday as well as our Band and Strings Concert on Thursday. A special thank you to one of our parents, Jeremy Boyle, for accompanying our students on guitar during both performances.

At Fox Mill, we provide students with opportunities to showcase their talent. At our Drama club assembly on Tuesday morning, we witnessed a star performance of the beloved play – Annie. We would love for you to attend our Winter Show on Tuesday, December 17th at 7pm.

 

A FEW UPDATES

 

Road Safety

As we move into the busy festive season, we would like to appeal to our families to be extra careful when using the streets. Please emphasize with your children, the importance of always using crosswalks, looking both ways before crossing, never running into traffic and being aware of their surroundings.  As reminder students are not allowed to walk across the bus loop during the school day. We are also asking families who gather in the walker’s area during dismissal, to be extra vigilant of students in that area. This is not a location for students to be playing with a ball nor other objects that could potentially run into the street or the kiss and ride loop.

 

Family Life Education

All FLE lessons for K-6 will be taught during the week of December 16-20th. Please check your digital consent form to ensure that your child (children) can/ cannot participate in lessons.

 

AAP Corner

Reminder:  Window for Full-Time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15, 2024.

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 Pamela James at [email protected] no later than December 15, 2024. 

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. 

Submitting a referral form for Full-Time AAP will initiate a process that begins at the local school and is then completed at the central office level. Our school will put together a portfolio that includes multiple data which are considered holistically. At the central office level, a committee of six trained professionals from various schools and roles will review the portfolio materials to determine eligibility for Full-Time placement.  Eligibility decisions are communicated by early April. Parents may request a copy of the portfolio that was submitted after they have been turned in for central selection by emailing Pamela James at [email protected]. 

Referrals for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP are screened at the local school. If you miss this deadline, your student can still be screened for Subject-Specific AAP or Part-Time AAP for the remainder of the year and submit a referral for Full-Time AAP next fall. 

For more information, please visit the Advanced Academic Programs website.

 

Winter Resources

⛄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. 

 

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

December 17th – Fox Mill’s Drama Club presents Annie @7pm

December 23- January 5- Winter Break

 

Have a lovely weekend. Looking forward to seeing you all next week

Brian Moose               Anice S. Denton

Principal                      Assistant Principal

 

 

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendar
• Fox Mill calendar
• Lunch Menus
• Attendance
• Fox Mill PTA

2611 Viking Drive, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 703.262.2700

Attendance: 703.262.2727 | Web | Twitter

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

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Happy Friday Fox Mill Families,

 

Please remember to show up in your numbers for our Books and Bingo event tonight. We look forward to a spectacular evening. We would like to thank the PTA as well as Mrs. Slusher and her team for organizing this event.

We would also like to thank all our parents who donated to the Food Drive as well as the Pajama Drive. With your help, you provided warmth and comfort to those in need, particularly the youngest among us.

 

A FEW UPDATES

 

Bathroom Vandalism

We pride ourselves on being responsible citizens at school. We boast a clean, welcoming environment for all our students to learn and grow. Unfortunately, we have seen the misuse of paper towels and toilet paper in some of the hallway bathrooms. Our custodians work extremely hard to clean, but we are asking that parents reiterate with students, the importance of using all toiletries appropriately in the bathrooms.

 

THREE HOUR EARLY RELEASE MONDAY – December 9th. If you have not already done so, please inform your child’s teacher of your decision on dismissal on Monday.

 

Fox Mill will be a buzz of activities over the next few weeks. Chorus Winter Concert will be held on Tuesday, December 10th at 6pm. Our Band concert will be on Thursday, December 12th at 6pm. We will be entertained by our students in the drama club as they bring to us Annie Jr. The performance starts at 7pm on Tuesday, December 17th. This is a free admission event; however, we will accept donations toward props and rights to future performances.

 

AAP CORNER

Reminder:  Window for Full-Time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15, 2024

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 Pamela James at [email protected] no later than December 15, 2024. 

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. 

Submitting a referral form for Full-Time AAP will initiate a process that begins at the local school and is then completed at the central office level. Our school will put together a portfolio that includes multiple data which are considered holistically. At the central office level, a committee of six trained professionals from various schools and roles will review the portfolio materials to determine eligibility for Full-Time placement.  Eligibility decisions are communicated by early April. Parents may request a copy of the portfolio that was submitted after they have been turned in for central selection by emailing Pamela James at [email protected]. 

Referrals for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP are screened at the local school. If you miss this deadline, your student can still be screened for Subject-Specific AAP or Part-Time AAP for the remainder of the year and submit a referral for Full-Time AAP next fall. 

For more information, please visit the Advanced Academic Programs website.

 

Have a wonderful weekend. See you all on Monday.

 

Brian Moose      Anice S. Denton

Principal             Assistant Principal

 

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendar
• Fox Mill calendar
• Lunch Menus
• Attendance
• Fox Mill PTA

2611 Viking Drive, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 703.262.2700

Attendance: 703.262.2727 | Web | Twitter

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

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November 22, 2024

 

Happy Friday Fox Mill Families,

Before publication today, we saw what seemed to be a few flakes of snow for the 2024-2025 school year, much to the delight of students. We were thrilled to have a full week of uninterrupted learning with our amazing students. Their display of amazing work this week, can be seen along our corridors, reflecting the hard work of our teachers and students.

Our Friendsgiving lunch certainly put the smiles on our students’ faces as they ran and greeted each parent at their scheduled lunch block. Thank you for being present and making this, another successful event at Fox Mill ES.

We would like to thank the PTA for securing volunteers. Because of you, the day went by smoothly, from setting up to cleaning up.  Thank you to Sarah Kingdon for her hard work in making sure Fox Mill Friendsgiving is always a favorite event.  If you would like opportunities to help at an event at our school, please reach out to the PTA. We welcome your “hands” as well as your ideas.

 

A FEW UPDATES

 

FEDERAL IMPACT AID SURVEY:

You still have time to submit your survey! 

Please help FCPS get the funding we are eligible for by completing the Impact Aid survey today.

The Federal Impact Aid program provides money to districts that enroll federally connected students. Help FCPS secure funding from the Impact Aid Program by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

Your support will ensure that we receive the resources for which we are eligible.

Step 1: CLICK HERE to be taken to SIS ParentVUE. If you don’t have a SIS ParentVUE account, contact your child’s school for an activation letter. 

Step 2: After you’ve logged into your ParentVue Account, look for the ‘Online Packets’ link at the top of the page. Click ‘Online Packets’.

Step 3: Next, click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page. This will take you to the Impact Aid Survey for you to complete.

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please fill out a form for each child. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you get to the final page, and see a green check next to each of their names.

 

LOST AND FOUND

Please check the Lost and Found before Thanksgiving Break.  In the season of giving and being thankful, we will be donating all unclaimed clothing to children in need if they are not picked up by the end of November.

 

ATTENDANCE

Regular school attendance in elementary school improves the chances that your child will read on grade level.

Chronic absenteeism (missing 18 or more school days per year) is a primary cause of lower academic achievement even when the absences are "excused" or understandable.

Students who attend 90% or more of the school year are more likely to graduate from high school on time.

Absences can be a sign that a student is losing interest in school, struggling with schoolwork, dealing with peer conflicts, or facing some other potentially serious difficulty, and help is available. 

 

At Fox Mill ES, we create a warm and welcoming environment and would love to see all our students every day. Please reach to us if there are ways that we could support your child if he/she is chronically absent.

 

BOOK FAIR

THE Scholastic Book Fair is coming to Fox Mill. Please visit the link below for all the information you’ll need to make this a memorable educational experience for your child.

Book Fair Homepage

 

AAP CORNER

Advanced Academic Programs: Services in Middle and High School

Parents and Guardians of 6th grade students were invited to attend an information session hosted by the Advanced Academic Resource Teachers (AARTs) from elementary schools within the Carson MS Pyramid and the Carson Middle School AART on 11/20/24. The AARTs presented an Overview of Advanced Academic Programs in Middle School and High School. The presentation covered topics including the goals of AAP in FCPS, the AAP Continuum of Services in Middle and High School, Honors vs. AAP courses, and Math offerings available to students in middle school.

You can find the recording of this presentation here.

AAP Full-time Referral Deadline Approaching-December 15th 

The deadline to submit a referral for AAP full-time services is December 15th . This is a set deadline and no exceptions are permitted. Please note that while this year's December 15th deadline is on a Sunday, no referrals will be accepted after 12:00 midnight on December 15th.  Please submit all full-time referrals and any optional documents as soon as possible. You may review the requirements for the full-time screening packet at the link below:

Parent or Guardian Materials for Full-Time Services Referrals

Please reach out to our AART, Pamela James, at [email protected] if you have any questions.

 

Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon

 

One of the ways FCPS supports the mental wellness of all students is through the Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener. In October, students in grades 3-12 took this screener, which gives information about their skills such as achieving goals, handling emotions, building relationships with adults and peers, and making good choices. 

 

The screener also helps students evaluate their school community’s efforts to make them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to create learning, experiences, and environments for students to succeed.

 

In early December, families will be able to view student SEL Screener results in SIS ParentVUE. For families who do not have an active ParentVUE account, results will be sent by mail.

Learn more about the screener on the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. For help understanding your child’s results or ideas to support them at home, review the Family Guide or contact your child’s school. 

 

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

November 27th- November 29th Thanksgiving Break

November 27th – December 6th – Book Fair

December 6th- Books and Bingo

December 9th- Three Hour Early Release Monday (Please inform your child’s teacher of your dismissal decision)

December 10th – Chorus Winter Concert

December 12th – Band and Strings Concert

 

Have a wonderful weekend,

Brian Moose     Anice S. Denton

Principal            Assistant Principal

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendar
• Fox Mill calendar
• Lunch Menus
• Attendance
• Fox Mill PTA

2611 Viking Drive, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 703.262.2700

Attendance: 703.262.2727 | Web | Twitter

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

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Happy Friday Fox Mill Families,

We would like to thank our military families for attending our Appreciation breakfast, in recognition of service to our country. A special thanks to Mrs. Amy Migliara for spearheading the initiative.

Thank you also to our 5th grade parents who provided our staff with a delicious breakfast. The spread in the teachers’ lounge was not only attractive but tasty.

A huge thank you to all the participants who showcased their country’s culture in our International Jubilee. We were honored to bring food, music and dance from around the world. This event would not be possible without the help of Mrs. Allie Greene, and members of Fox Mill’s Equity Committee. If you would like to be a part of this spectacular display for our next school year, please reach out to Mrs. Greene for more details.

Enjoy a few photos from the International Jubilee on our website:

https://foxmilles.fcps.edu/features/international-jubilee-highlights-2024

 

A FEW UPDATES

 

Family Life Education

Family Life Education is taught in Fairfax County Public Schools. Parents can preview lessons in Parent View in Schoology: lessons, slide presentations, and media. Please contact your child’s teacher if you need support in setting up your Parent View account to view FLE materials.  Information on FCPS’ Family Life Education for families can be found by visiting the website https://www.fcps.edu/academics/curriculum/subject-area/family-life-education-fle

Parents may choose to opt their students out of all or some lessons. It is very important that this information be communicated with your child’s teacher before our lessons begin in the last week of December. Please email Ms. Denton’s with questions related to lessons.

 

Friendsgiving Lunch

Our Friendsgiving lunch will be on Thursday, November 21st. We look forward to seeing all our families join their students for a wonderful lunch. 

 

PTA Corner

Happy Friday Fox Mill!  The PTA is looking forward to a week full of fun, starting tonight with our Dining 4 Dollars event at Chuck E. Cheese in Herndon. Information for this event was sent home on a flyer in yesterday’s Thursday folder and is also available online at https://www.foxmillpta.com/. 

Monday we are kicking off our Foxy’s Food Drive. We need your help achieving our goal to beat last year’s collection of 423 lbs!  And then, don’t forget to mark your calendars for Foxy’s Friendsgiving and our monthly PTA meeting on Thursday! We hope to see everyone at both events.  Details for all of these events are located on our website on our calendar and under Fox Prints.

 

Attendance

We’re so happy to see all of our students ready to explore, discover, and grow. Please remember that attending school regularly helps you stay on track with your learning and connect with friends and teachers. If you're feeling sick or have an important reason to be absent, make sure to let us know.

 

Regular school attendance is important to your student’s success.  Please update your students attendance using one of these methods:

 

• Parents/legal guardians can submit full-day absences using ParentVUE. Learn more about attendance reporting through ParentVue.

• 703-262-2700 Main Office
• 703-262-2727 Attendance Line

When reporting a student's absence, please be specific about why your student will not attend school.  

• If reporting an ill student, include symptoms, especially if they have a fever, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, and/or cough. If your student has a diagnosis from a healthcare provider, please include that information.

Review students attendance policies here:

https://foxmilles.fcps.edu/about/attendance-procedures

 

Lost and Found

Please stop by our lost and found to retrieve any item of clothing your child may be missing. In the season of giving and being thankful, we will be donating all unclaimed clothing to children in need if they are not picked up by the end of November. We encourage you to write your student’s name in their belongings, so we can reunite them with their owners.

 

Dates For Your Diary

November 1-30- Native American Heritage Month

November 21st – Friendsgiving Lunch

November 27- 29th – Thanksgiving Break

November 27th-December 6th- Book Fair shop online and set up your EWallet

December 2nd- December 6th- Shop in person at the Book Fair (8-8:30 am and 3:30-4 pm)

December 6th- Books and Bingo

 

Have a wonderful weekend.

Brian Moose         Anice S. Denton

Principal          Assistant Principal

 

 

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendar
• Fox Mill calendar
• Lunch Menus
• Attendance
• Fox Mill PTA

2611 Viking Drive, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 703.262.2700

Attendance: 703.262.2727 | Web | Twitter

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

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Happy Friday, Fox Mill Families,

 

We wrapped up our first quarter on a high note. I hope you had productive conferences with your child’s teacher (s) and are ready to continue the successful partnerships we have forged, to support your students’ learning.

 

A Few Updates

 

International Jubilee Begins at 6pm Today!!

We are looking forward to seeing you this evening for our International Jubilee, which starts at 6:00 pm. Come see performances on our World Stage and sample foods from all over the world in our International Café. This year we have over 20 countries setting up display tables. Grab your passports and get ready for an amazing excursion with us.

 

PICTURE RETAKES WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 13th:

If your child was absent on September 25th, or joined our school family after September 25th they will have their picture taken on Wednesday, November 13th.  If you want your child to have retakes please return you printed pictures you received and let your teacher know that you would like for your child to have their picture taken.

Any questions please contact Jen Stinchcomb  [email protected].

 

FOX MILL CELEBRATES OUR VETERANS!!

 

WHEN:            Friday, November 15th @ 8:00-8:35AM

 

WHERE:         Fox Mill Elementary School Cafeteria

 

WHO:  We’d like to invite our students who have a loved one who has proudly served our Nation as well as their veteran family member to join us for a reception to honor and celebrate their Veteran’s service.  Please join us for some refreshments and a tour of Fox Mill Elementary’s Wall of Honor.

 

No RSVP required.

 

Please contact the front office if you need more information on this event.

 

 

FEDERAL IMPACT AID SURVEY:

You still have time to submit your survey! 

Please help FCPS get the funding we are eligible for by completing the Impact Aid survey today.

The Federal Impact Aid program provides money to districts that enroll federally connected students. Help FCPS secure funding from the Impact Aid Program by helping us identify: 

• Military families.
• Federally connected families.
• Families living on a military base.

Please complete one form for each child in your household. Remember that only the enrolling parent can fill out the Impact Aid Survey form. 

For families without access to ParentVUE, a paper copy of the form will be sent home with your student starting November 12. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.

Your support will ensure that we receive the resources for which we are eligible.

Step 1: CLICK HERE to be taken to SIS ParentVUE. If you don’t have a SIS ParentVUE account, contact your child’s school for an activation letter. 

Step 2: After you’ve logged into your ParentVue Account, look for the ‘Online Packets’ link at the top of the page. Click ‘Online Packets’.

Step 3: Next, click the ‘Federal Impact Aid Survey’ button on the bottom of the page. This will take you to the Impact Aid Survey for you to complete.

If you have multiple children in Fairfax County Public Schools, please fill out a form for each child. You will know you have completed all of the forms when you get to the final page, and see a green check next to each of their names.

 

 

Boundary Review Community Meetings Start This Month

 

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

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

 

Tutoring Resources for Families

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

 

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

 

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

 

Dates For Your Diary

November 1-30- Native American Heritage Month

November 11th – Veteran’s Day – Holiday

November 13th-   Picture Retakes

November 21st – Friendsgiving Lunch

November 27- 29th – Thanksgiving Break

 

Have a wonderful weekend, see you all at the International Jubilee.

 

Brian Moose      Anice S. Denton

Principal            Assistant Principal

 

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendar
• Fox Mill calendar
• Lunch Menus
• Attendance
• Fox Mill PTA

2611 Viking Drive, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 703.262.2700

Attendance: 703.262.2727 | Web | Twitter

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

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

Happy Friday Fox Mill Families,

 

We hope you enjoyed the pleasant weather as much as we enjoyed the outdoor time with your students. Here are a few reminders for the upcoming week.

 

Red Ribbon & Bullying Prevention Spirit Week

10/28 -Keep yourself in check and say NO to Drugs and Bullying! “Wear plaid or flannel.”

10/29 -Education is key so be Drug and Bully free! “Wear college gear!”

10/30- Put Drugs and Bullying to bed! Wear your Pajamas!

10/31 -Drugs and Bullying aren’t in our character! “Dress like a Book Character!”

 

International Jubilee

We are thrilled to invite you and your family to our International Jubilee, a celebration of the many cultures that make our school community so vibrant! This event will take place on:

📅 Date: 11/8/24

🕒 Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

📍 Location: FMES

To make this event a success, we need your help! There are a variety of ways you can get involved:

• Event Setup
• Serving Food from Around the World
• Assisting with Performances
• Clean-up Crew
• Water donation

 

Please sign up for a volunteer role that fits your schedule using the form below:

👉 https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0844A4AC28AAF9C52-52682202-international#/

This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, celebrate diversity, and create lasting memories for our children. We look forward to making this event special with your help!

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Allie Greene at [email protected].

Thank you for being an essential part of our school community!

 

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 provide 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. 

 

Early Release

Monday, October 28th is our next three-hour early release. Thursday, October 31st is a two- hour early release. Please plan accordingly.

 

Have a wonderful weekend.

Brian Moose         Anice S. Denton

Principal                Assistant Principal

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendar
• Fox Mill calendar
• Lunch Menus
• Attendance
• Fox Mill PTA

2611 Viking Drive, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 703.262.2700

Attendance: 703.262.2727 | Web | Twitter

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

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

 

Dear Fox Mill Families,

 

Fox Mill's meeting to discuss screening procedures for Full-time (previously called Level IV) Advanced Academic Programs services will be held on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, from 6:30-7:30 PM in the Fox Mill Library. Slides from the meeting will be available in the Parent Schoology account after the meeting.  Information regarding the Full-time screening process can be found on the FCPS website at https://www.fcps.edu/academics/academic-overview/advanced-academic-programs  if you want to review before the meeting. Please reach out to our Advanced Academics Resource Teacher, Pamela James, at [email protected] if you have any questions.

 

Brian Moose   Anice S. Denton

Principal          Assistant Principal

 

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendar
• Fox Mill calendar
• Lunch Menus
• Attendance
• Fox Mill PTA

2611 Viking Drive, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 703.262.2700

Attendance: 703.262.2727 | Web | Twitter

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

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

 

Happy Friday Fox Mill Families,

We are almost at the end of the first quarter and there has been so much learning going on throughout the building each day. We dropped by fourth grade this week.  Throughout their Geography Unit, students in Mrs. Bachman’s class were asked the driving question, "How can you, as a geographer, teach visitors about the five regions of Virginia?”. Utilizing Universal Design for Learning principles, students demonstrated their knowledge of their chosen region’s characteristics and resources by using a variety of media to educate their audiences- including using Google slides, Canva, postcards, and flags. Throughout this problem-based approach to learning (PBL), students worked on the Portrait of a Graduate attribute of Critical and Creative Thinker by showing evidence of how they used information from many sources to gather information.

 

Parent Teacher Conferences

As we approach the end of the first quarter, we would like to invite our parents to email your child’s teacher and set up dates and times for conferences.  Attending parent–teacher conferences is one way to be involved and help your child succeed. A parent–teacher conference is a great opportunity to:

• discuss your child's progress.
• share your child's strengths and needs.
• work with the teacher to help your child do well in school.

Whether it's your first conversation with the teacher or one of many, we welcome you to meet and share your thoughts with your child’ teacher. Here are a few tips as you plan for your child’s conference.

• Know ahead of time how your child is doing and what you want to discuss.
• Speak to your child and ask if there are questions or issues, they want you to discuss with the teacher.
• Share a few things about your child with the teacher – interests, strengths- to help the teacher know your child better.
• Even if you know all is well, attending conferences shows your kids that you're interested in how they do in school.
• Keep in mind that you and your child’s teacher have the same goal: To help your child succeed in school.

 

AAP Parent Information Meeting Part II: Understanding the Full-Time Screening Process

October 23rd - AAP Parent Information Meeting 2: Understanding the Full-Time AAP Screening Process, 6:30-7:30 pm in the library. Please reach out to our AART, Pamela James at [email protected] if you have any questions prior to the meeting.

 

National Building Museum Big Build Festival

Students and families are invited to the National Building Museum for The Big Build festival this Saturday, October 19th from 10:00am to 4:00pm. The museum is located at 401F Street NW, Washington, DC. 

The FREE Big Build hands-on day-long festival invites visitors of all ages to channel their inner builder and discover what it’s like to wear a hard hat, hammer a nail or drill a hole. All the exhibitions will be open for free!

More information can be found here:

https://nbm.ticketapp.org/portal/product/33/event/f089e177-ff10-41fd-8733-4a3b1aa52aa8?link_back=https%3A%2F%2Fnbm.ticketapp.org%2Fportal%2Fpages%2Fcalendar. 

Additionally, Brownie and Junior Girl Scouts can earn their STEM Career Exploration badges by discovering the many career possibilities, speaking with professionals in STEM positions and imagining themselves in their dream jobs.

 

Veteran’s Day

Be on the lookout for correspondence from Fox Mill on our Veteran’s Day Activities. This is a solemn opportunity for us at Fox Mill to honor our veterans, and their incredible service and sacrifice to protect our nation and preserve our freedom.

 

Red Ribbon & Bullying Prevention Spirit Week

Please check your child’s teacher method of communication or newsletter for information on Red Ribbon and Bullying Prevention Spirit week during the week of Oct 28th and October 31st.

 

Dates For Your Diary

 

PTA Movie Night – October 18th

Three Hours Early Release Monday – October 28th

End of Quarter Two Hour Early Release- October 31st

Diwali – November 1st (Holiday)

Schoolwide Planning – November 4th (Student Holiday)

Teacher Workday (Election Day) – November 5th (Student Holiday)

 

 

Have a wonderful weekend,

Brian Moose         Anice S. Denton

Principal                Assistant Principal

 

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendar
• Fox Mill calendar
• Lunch Menus
• Attendance
• Fox Mill PTA

2611 Viking Drive, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 703.262.2700

Attendance: 703.262.2727 | Web | Twitter

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

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Good Afternoon Fox Mill Families,

We had a lovely week learning and growing with our amazing students.  We would like to thank fifth grade for inviting us to stimulate our brains through popular Japanese camp songs before the math focus lesson in Shimizu Sensei’s afternoon block, listen to our articulate presenters in Mrs. Sherwood’s class-Throughout their Force, Motion, and Energy Unit, students were asked the driving question, "How can you, as an engineer and a humanitarian, design a mechanical device to deliver something of value to people in need?”. Students created a design and demonstrated their knowledge of energy sources as well as worked on the POG Skill of Critical and Creative Thinker by showing evidence of how they revised and refined their work throughout the project.  Mrs. Ratzenberger’s class also showcased their learning and had Fox Mill’s administrators, as well as our Advanced Academics Resource Teacher, participate in the culminating activity. Here’s what they did. After three weeks of studying corn and learning about how resources are cultivated, fifth grade students had a creative opportunity to answer our essential question: How do we decide which resources we should develop? We ENCAPSULATED our answer on a license plate for our tractors. Can you guess some of our answers? EZ2PLANT, GD4SOIL, PRFDBL3

 

 

Parents/Guardians:

It is critical that we are aware of dismissal plans for each student for the remaining early release Mondays.

If you have not responded to the new 3 hour early release survey for each child enrolled at Fox Mill, please do so ASAP.

https://forms.gle/pSSZ5BYcTqJU223p6

 

Fox Mill will dismiss early on the following dates:

October 28, December 9, February 24, March 17, April 28, May 19

 

Students will be dismissed at 12:30 pm. If you have a childcare hardship, supervision will be provided by school staff until 3:30 pm.

 

Please let us know your child's dismissal plan for the remaining Early Release Mondays. You must complete the form for each child you have at Fox Mill. Your dismissal plan will apply to all the remaining 3-hour Early Release Mondays.

 

 

A Few Updates

The FMES Equity Committee is thrilled to announce our upcoming International Jubilee, a vibrant celebration of the diverse cultures within our school community! This event will be a fantastic opportunity for everyone to share their heritage, enjoy delicious foods, and participate in fun activities.

We invite you to represent your country and culture by setting up a table! You can display artifacts, wear cultural attire, and provide information about your country’s customs and traditions.

If you would like to represent your culture or volunteer, please send an email to Allie Greene ([email protected]) or sign up here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScMp2yMS6QhC_Mxn-sIsi4xUeNvWekliuSU0mG4UzirivZNPw/viewform?usp=sharing

Let’s come together to celebrate our rich tapestry of cultures and create a memorable experience for our students and families!

 

 

Fox Mill’s 2024/ 2025 Yearbook Cover Design Contest

The time has come for all 6th grade students to submit their original art entry (illustration) for the 2024-2025 Fox Mill Yearbook Covers (front cover, back cover, inside first page).  Your design may be chosen for one of these pages.

This year’s title, “And so, Our Story Goes” should be included in your design.  When designing your cover entry, think about what this means to you, your time at Fox Mill, and moving forward.

All entries are due to Mrs. Welles, Monday, October 21st.  You are welcome to submit multiple entries.

Complete instructions and paper are available in the art room.  Please feel free to come by anytime!

 

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. 

 

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.

 

Dates For Your Diary

October 14th – Indigenous People’s Day (Student Holiday)

 

Have a wonderful weekend.

 

Brian Moose       Anice S. Denton

Principal              Assistant Principal

 

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendar
• Fox Mill calendar
• Lunch Menus
• Attendance
• Fox Mill PTA

2611 Viking Drive, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 703.262.2700

Attendance: 703.262.2727 | Web | Twitter

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

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Friday Focus October 4, 2024

 

A pleasant Friday evening to all our Fox Mill Families,

 

Sixth grade students embarked upon an adventure-packed day at Hemlock in cooperation with NOVA Parks. Students braved the elements, strengthened bonds, and worked on teambuilding experiences. The group, was commended many times on being spectacular participants who were willing to push themselves outside of their comfort zone. They bravely zip-lined, swung over pits and happily stomped through mud.

 

Young Scholars STEM Field Trip to Thinkabit Labs 

As part of the Young Scholars Initiative, Young Scholars (YS) in grades 3-6 at Fox Mill participated in the Thinkabit Lab experience at Virginia Tech in Falls Church on Tuesday. This experience provided our YS an engaging environment—part lab, makerspace, and innovative learning spaces—to foster creativity, collaboration, and the critical skills necessary for the future technical workforce.

Our visit began in an uncommon, colorful, and comfortable space with an interactive exploration of a wide variety of STEM careers and supporting careers. Students then moved next door to an equally uncommon technical learning lab in which they built and programmed with electronic microcontrollers, working in two or three-person teams in an engineering design process to build and present unique robotic crafts they designed. Presentations followed where all the students were able to showcase their designs to each other and to Thinkabit Labs staff. Throughout this experience, students used the skills needed in today's workplace-communication, collaboration, creative and critical thinking, resilient and goal-directed, ethical, and global citizen- as they are on their way to becoming the 21st century leaders of tomorrow. 

A FEW UPDATES

 

AAP Parent Information Meeting Part II

October 23rd - AAP Parent Information Meeting 2: Understanding the Full-Time AAP Screening Process, 6:30-7:30 pm in the library.

 

PTA Corner

October is here and with it comes lots of exciting events!  Please be sure to mark your calendars for the following upcoming events:

10/9 - Walk and Roll to School

10/17 - PTA Meeting @ 7:00 in the FMES Library

10/18 - Teacher Breakfast sponsored by 6th Grade and Onigari and Movie Night

 

 

Early Release Mondays

As we get closer to our second early release Monday (October 28st), we would like to know each child’s dismissal plan. Please complete the google form your child’s homeroom teacher sent out. Forms must be completed for each child you have at Fox Mill.

For your planning purposes, here are the remaining three-hour release dates:

October 28th, December 9th, February 24th, March 17th, April 28th and May 19th

 

As you continue to relax and reflect this weekend, enjoy the time spent with families and friends. We look forward to seeing you all on Monday.

Brian Moose          Anice S. Denton

Principal                 Assistant Principal

 

 

 

 

 

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendar
• Fox Mill calendar
• Lunch Menus
• Attendance
• Fox Mill PTA

2611 Viking Drive, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 703.262.2700

Attendance: 703.262.2727 | Web | Twitter

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

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

 

September 27, 2024

Happy Friday Fox Mill Families,

We had our first of seven, 3-hour early release, on Monday. The students who stayed with us were engaged in activities across three staff managed centers in the building.

Mrs. Bekenstein’s Kindergarten class celebrated Johnny Appleseed’s birthday by making applesauce on Thursday. The smell of apples in the closely monitored slow cooker permeated the hallways, while students eagerly waited for their share of the treat.

Our second-grade students went on their first field trip for the school year. They visited Cub Run and as part of their Science Unit, explored the life cycle of insects, plants, birds and amphibians.

We are excited to welcome our exchange students from Japan this weekend. We would like to thank our host families for allowing our visitors this memorable experience by immersing in our rich culture.  Our students are looking forward to showcasing their talent at a welcome assembly to be held in our school’s café on Monday.

A FEW UPDATES

Note from the PTA:

Due to the inclement weather, we are postponing Movie Night to a later date. Additional information will be coming out soon. We hope you all have a great weekend. Stay dry! 🙂

AAP Overview Parent Information Meeting

Thank you to all parents who attended the meeting on Wednesday evening. If you were not able to attend, a recording of the meeting and the meeting slides have been posted in the Fox Mill Parent Schoology Course. Please reach out to our AART, Pamela James, at [email protected] if you have any questions.

Immunization

FCPS has partnered with the Fairfax County Health Department to provide immunization clinics on limited early release Mondays for elementary school students, and at middle and high schools this fall. 

 

Fall Immunization Clinics: The Fairfax County Health Department is providing immunizations for FCPS elementary students during early release Mondays at their health clinics this fall. 

 

Find out the clinic date, locations, and how to make an appointment: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/immunization/locations

 

Find out more about the immunizations required for K-12 students to attend public school in Virginia: https://www.fcps.edu/immunizations 

 

Attendance Tip: Scheduling Family Trips or Events

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

Dates For Your Diary

 

10/3- Rosh Hashanah (Hoilday)

10/4- Teacher Workday (Student Holiday)

10/9- Walk and Roll (Walk to School Day)

10/14- Indigenous People’s Day (Student Holiday)

10/17- PTA General Meeting

10/28- Elementary School Three Hour Early Release

10/31- End of First Quarter Two Hour Release

 

 

Have a wonderful weekend,

 

Brian Moose          Anice S. Denton

Principal                 Assistant Principal

 

 

 

 

 

 

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendar
• Fox Mill calendar
• Lunch Menus
• Attendance
• Fox Mill PTA

2611 Viking Drive, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 703.262.2700

Attendance: 703.262.2727 | Web | Twitter

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

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

September 20, 2024

Good Afternoon Fox Mill Families,

It was such a pleasant sight to see fourth graders heading out to recess yesterday, and as they walked across our garden, much to the delight of Mrs. Welles and Mr. Robinson, our Get2Green Fox Mill Leads, stopping to lend a hand as we pulled weeds and spruced up our gardening beds. We appreciate your enthusiasm fourth graders, and we really like your idea of a salsa party when our tomatoes reach perfection!

We were thrilled to see our parents and teachers at our first PTA meeting for the new school year. Thank you for the engaging conversations and for your unwavering support to the enhancement of our learning spaces here at Fox Mill.

Sixth graders headed down to kindergarten to read with their book buddies, a treat kindergarten really looks forward to on Fridays.

A Few Updates

Early Release Monday September 23rd

This will be our first of seven Mondays (three hour) early release. The two dismissal times are 12:30pm, and our normal dismissal time of 3:30 for students who will remain at school. The early release as you are aware is to facilitate collaborative time to meet for professional development for the new Virginia Literacy Act.

Here is what to expect on Monday September 23rd:

Specials

• Grades 3, 4, 5, 6 will go to specials at their regular time - no recess.

• ID, K, 1, 2 will not have specials, but may have recess at assigned times before the first dismissal.

Lunch

• Lunch time remains the same EXCEPT for grades 3-6.
• Buyers will pick up bag lunches and go back to their classrooms to eat.
• Support staff/specialists will escort students to and from the cafe to purchase bagged lunch.
• Classroom teachers stay with kids until coverage returns with kids with bagged lunch. 
• Coverage then supervises lunch in the classroom.
• Students are encouraged to bring 2 snacks.

Activities (After the first dismissal)

Students will be in groups (grade levels may be mixed among primary, and among upper grades)

Activity 1: Technology/ reading/ homework/ Building (legos, keeva, etc)

Activity 2: Learn 360 educational Movie/ free draw/ Snack / Reading

Activity 3: Movement (playground, field, gym, movement video, etc) / Reading

 

Please reach out to the front office if you have any changes to the dismissal of your child that you previously indicated on the school survey sent out.

Parent Information Meeting 1: Introduction to AAP & Continuum of Services-

September 25th 6:30-7:30pm  (virtual)

This year our Parent Information Meeting to introduce the Advanced Academics Program and to explain the continuum of Advanced Academic Services at Fox Mill will be held virtually on the evening of Wednesday September 25, 2024, from 6:30-7:30 pm. A zoom link to access the meeting is below. The link is also posted in the Parent Schoology account. A flyer was sent home two weeks ago detailing the continuum of services as well as the testing and identification timelines. Please reach out to our Advanced Academics Resource Teacher, Pamela James, at [email protected] if have questions prior to the meeting.

Phone one-tap+13092053325,,92523520480#,,,,*486541# or +13126266799,,92523520480#,,,,*486541#

Join URL :

https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/92523520480?pwd=dAMaxZTT6RSrBqRN2uzHhnovtpW8WW.1&from=addon

Meeting ID:      925 2352 0480

Passcode:         486541

 

PTA CORNER

Thank you to everyone who was able to attend the PTA meeting last night!  It was great to have so many parents and teachers together to hear about PTA activities and plans, as well as to answer questions.  For those that were not able to be there, we will be posting our meeting minutes and slides on our website on the About page.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

9/25- Picture Day

9/25- Dinning 4 Dollars (D4D) event at Chipotle* in Franklin Farm

9/27- Fox Mill Movie Night

9/28- Japanese Exchange Program Pizza Party

10/9- Walk and Roll (Walk to School Day)

10/17- PTA General Meeting

 

Have a wonderful weekend. May it be filled with sunshine and smiles as you rejuvenate and recharge for the busy week ahead.

 

Brian Moose      Anice S. Denton

Principal            Assistant Principal

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendar
• Fox Mill calendar
• Lunch Menus
• Attendance
• Fox Mill PTA

2611 Viking Drive, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 703.262.2700

Attendance: 703.262.2727 | Web | Twitter

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

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

Good evening Fox Mill Families,

We are thankful for the caring community in which our school is located. We get to welcome smiling children who are eager to learn, and even more eager to form friendships with their amazing classmates. Thank you for allowing us to share these memories with your children.

Our hearts break for our fellow students and teachers in Georgia who were the victims of another gun violence in schools. We stand united in our duty to protect our students. Please keep their families in your thoughts.

 

A FEW UPDATES

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. 

 

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.

 

THE ANNUAL SOUTH LAKES HIGH SCHOOL HOME COMING PARADE

Sixth Graders and the whole Fox Mill Elementary community, please join Foxy at the South Lakes Home coming Parade on Friday, September 13th from 4:30pm to 6pm. Bring candy to toss along the parade route. Students MUST have a parent or supervising adult present. We will meet at the Hunter’s Woods shopping center at 4:30 pm and march along the route ending at South Lakes High School. The parade starts at 4:55pm. Save the date and make memories with us.

 

FOX MILL PICTURE DAY

Strawbridge Studios will take student pictures at Fox Mill on Wednesday, September 25th. Order forms will be sent home in Thursday Folders on September 12th.

You also may sign up directly with Strawbridge using this link:

 This link will allow you to sign up to receive updates via email regarding your child's school portraits. These updates include promotions, additional deals and the ability to order more pictures at a later time. When entering student information, please be sure to enter the student's name as it is on file at school.

 

PTA CORNER

A great way to stay in the know is to sign up for Fox Prints, our weekly newsletter that highlights all of PTA's events.  You can sign up for Fox Prints here.

 

Dates For Your Diary

PTA Meeting – September 19th

Monday, September 23rd- Early Release ( 12:30 pm)

As you plan for future months, here are the other early release Monday dates.

• September 23
• October 28
• December 9 (Changed from November 25)
• February 24
• March 17
• April 28
• May 19

 

We end this week’s focus by encouraging all of our families to never despair because of the broken world around us and to work together to preserve and illuminate what is good, for our children, for our school, for our community and for our country.

Have a wonderful weekend,

 

Brian Moose      Anice S. Denton

Principal             Assistant Principal

Quick Links

• FCPS School Year Calendar
• Fox Mill calendar
• Lunch Menus
• Attendance
• Fox Mill PTA

2611 Viking Drive, Herndon, VA 20171  |  Phone: 703.262.2700

Attendance: 703.262.2727 | Web | Twitter