FCPS

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters When Should Your Child Stay Home From School?

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

Help your student succeed by encouraging them to miss as few days as possible. However, do make sure your student stays home if they are sick. So when should your child stay home? Visit our site for helpful ideas regarding absences and how to work with your child and your school.

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify the McNair Elementary School main office so that assistance can be provided if needed. Keep an open line of communication with our school's public health nurse, Yasamin Asmat, and call the school as soon as you know your child will be absent and tell school staff why and for how long. Attend today, Achieve Tomorrow!

Thanksgiving Luncheon at McNair

Thank you to all who were able to RSVP to attend our McNair Elementary School Thanksgiving Luncheon on Friday, November 22nd. Please see the following important information pertaining to the luncheon.

Our schedule is below as well as here: schedule.docx
Families can check-in at Door 1 for the luncheon. Parents/Guardians that purchased lunch will receive a ticket to go through the lunch line. Guests that did not purchase a lunch will be able to report directly to their child’s homeroom table assignment. All registered guests will receive a visitor badge.
Please ensure that you bring a valid ID with you to sign-in. (Please note, photos of your identification on your telephone will not be accepted. We ask parents to bring a valid driver’s license, passport, or identification card.) We appreciate your support as safety is a priority.
Below you will find the Thanksgiving Luncheon Schedule. Please review carefully so that you do not miss your child’s lunch time. We do recommend arriving early to provide enough time to check-in. When reviewing the schedule, you will notice some classes will have lunch in the cafeteria and others will enjoy their lunch in the gymnasium or even their classroom.
Families are welcome to shop at the McNair Scholastic Book Fair anytime from 11:00-2:00pm in the library on Friday.
If you are interested in volunteering at the luncheon or at the Book Fair, please let us know! You may contact the main office at 703-493-4800.

We are grateful to get to spend this joyous time together with our Mustang Community! We look forward to seeing you on Friday at the Thanksgiving Luncheon!

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets (in the upper right corner after logging in). Please complete it as soon as possible.

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, schools will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, December 4.

Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is important. Information from this survey resulted in more than $4 million in funding last year from the U.S. Department of Education. These funds are used to support all Fairfax County public schools and centers.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Need to Register for ParentVUE?

Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey.

Technical support for using ParentVUE or completing the survey online is available by submitting a Parent Support Request ticket. Select SISParent in the Application dropdown menu and type Federal Impact Aid Survey under Issue Description. Or, call the Parent Technology Help Desk at 833-921-3277 (833-921-FCPS).

Hour of Code at McNair ES

Thank you for your continued support in fostering a safe and positive online learning environment for all our Mustangs! In December, we'll be diving into the exciting world of coding when students attend Technology Lab! Students will get hands-on experience with both digital coding activities and unplugged (offline) activities to solidify their understanding.

Digital Resources Consent Reminder: To ensure your child can access FCPS-approved digital resources for coding activities, please review this link and give your permission for your child to access safe, engaging learning websites. If you have any questions, feel free to email Ms. Perri at [email protected].

We Are Still Looking For One More Volunteer For The Family Vision Group! Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together!

Dr. Reid, Superintendent of Fairfax County Public Schools, has launched the FCPS Family Vision Group. This group brings together parents and caregivers in a meaningful way through sharing diverse perspectives to ensure that FCPS provides the best possible education experience for each and every student. The Family Vision Group also provides another opportunity to put our 2023-2030 Strategic Plan in action through meaningful communication and collaboration with families and caregivers.

By participating, parents/caregivers gain valuable knowledge and connections to become powerful partners in their child's educational journey. The group also facilitates open discussions with Dr. Reid on important topics related to student success. Bi-monthly meetings (August 2024 - May 2025) ensure consistent school representation and foster open communication through Q&A sessions, and feedback opportunities to help participants inform other families at their schools. The FCPS Family Vision Group seeks to recognize and strengthen the positive impact of community engagement on student achievement.

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

If you are interested in serving as a family representative for the McNair ES community, please reach out to Principal Watson by email at [email protected] or by calling the main office at 703-793-4800.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

Snacks for the McNair ES and McNair Upper Staffs!

We would love the help of our McNair families to stock both of our school's teacher workrooms with snacks, treats, and drinks for our hard working staff members to enjoy while they plan engaging lessons and activities for our Mustangs.

If you are able to do so, please consider donating something. Please click on the following link to sign-up for your donation:

Donations can be dropped off to the designated school's main office each school day between the hours of 8:00 AM-4:00 PM.

Thank you in advance for your support!

All the best,

Mrs. Goddin & Mrs. Watson

Crosswalk Safety at McNair ES

We want to emphasize the importance of safety on our school grounds and surrounding areas. One crucial aspect of this is using the designated crosswalks to safely cross Thomas Jefferson Drive.

We understand that it may be inconvenient to walk to the crosswalk, but not doing so puts our students at risk. By modeling responsible behavior and using the crosswalk with the crossing guard or police officer, we can create a safer environment for everyone. Please discuss the importance of crosswalk safety with your child and encourage them to always use the designated paths. Your support and partnership in this matter is greatly appreciated.

Free Immunizations For All FCPS Students 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.

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter & Important Information AAP November Newsletter

This month, Mrs.Janofsky and Mrs. Burg highlight Questioning and share how it is a vital skill that fosters critical thinking and curiosity. By asking
thoughtful questions, we encourage our children to explore ideas, challenge assumptions, and seek deeper understanding. Check out the latest edition of the AAP November Newsletter.

Full Time AAP Referrals

Referrals for Full Time AAP Screening are due no later than December 15 at 11:59 p.m. This is a firm deadline, and no exceptions will be made. Please refer to this checklist for links to referral documents and submission instructions.

Referral Office Hours with Mrs. Burg

Mrs. Burg will host office hours on Zoom to answer questions and provide clarity around the Full Time AAP Screening Process. If one of these times does not work for you, please email your question directly to Mrs. Burg at [email protected].

Monday 12/2 10am-11am
Wednesday 12/11 5pm-6pm
Friday 12/13 TBD

Use this Zoom Link to enter. Please email Mrs. Burg ahead of time if you would like translation services.

Cafeteria Hostess Opportunity

McNair Elementary School is currently hiring for a Cafeteria Hostess. If you are interested in this hourly position and would like to learn more about this opportunity, please contact Brandy O'Bryant at [email protected] or at 703-793-4800.

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.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering 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, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Volunteer at McNair! Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

As our community knows, teamwork makes the dream work! We are looking for parent volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering at the McNair Book Fair or at the McNair Thanksgiving Luncheon, please contact our main office at 703-793-4800.

We appreciate your ongoing partnership and support to make events like these possible for all of our Mustangs!

PTA Updates Get Involved with the PTA!

The PTA supports our schools through help from our community. One way we do that is through the help of our wonderful volunteers! Whether you're available for an hour a year or an hour a week to pitch in - we have opportunities that meet everyone's busy schedule!

For more information or to apply, please reach out to our PTA at [email protected]

Our PTA Is Now on Facebook!

Please like & follow to get the latest updates. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567288287981

Harris Teeter Together In Education- Fundraiser

Harris Teeter’s Together In Education Program gives schools a chance to earn funds when you link your VIC card and shop Harris Teeter brands. A percentage of your purchase is donated to the school that your VIC card is linked to. There are NO LIMITS to how much a school can earn.

Instruction for Families

Option 1: Please use the annual sign up form for the TIE program from Harris Teeter using the following link: McNair Harris Teeter

**Note: You need to re-register every year for this program.**

Option 2: You can also sign up in-person at the counter using our school code: 5090

PTA Volunteers Needed

We need volunteers to be Event Coordinators for the following Events:

Financial Committee (3 volunteers needed!)
Movie Night
Bingo Night
Running Event (fun run or color run)
International Night/Cultural Fair
Student Talent Show
Kids vs. Adults Sports Tournament
6th Grade Promotion Ceremony

What Does an Event Coordinator Do?

Event Coordinators act as the main organizer and point of contact for their chosen event; lead a team of volunteers, brainstorm ideas, and make sure everything runs smoothly on the day of the event.

We're also looking for friendly Coaches and volunteers to host events like Science Olympiad Division B, ACSL, Odyssey of the Mind and Reflections.

Please click on the link to join the volunteer group:

PTA Reflections Update

If you've signed up for the PTA Reflections 2024-2025, it's time to submit your work. Just make sure to follow all the instructions. Good luck!

Submission Format: Digital

Submissions Due Date: November 13th, 2024

Submission Details Link: https://mcnairespta.givebacks.com/w/reflections

Community Resources

Buy Nothing Facebook Group Herndon: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/d5K39SGGSU2eRZQU/

PTA General Meeting

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.

📍Boundary Review Community Meeting

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, December 2 at 6:30-8 p.m., at the Westfield High School Cafeteria.

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.

CTE Career Development Month

By enrolling in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core program of CTE courses is offered in every middle and high school. Based on the needs of the populations served, each school determines optional courses to be offered. Learn more about Academies and Specialized Programs.

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.

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. 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, contact our McNair Elementary School Main Office at 703-793-4800 to connect with our family liaison, Selene Vargas, or visit FCPS’ website for a list of region representatives.

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. See the complete school year calendar.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

Veterans Day Recognitions
Resources on IEPs, Financial Aid, Literacy, and Community Leadership
Teacher Hiring Event

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay In Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

November 18-22: The Scholastic Book Fair at McNair ES

November 20: Family Night at the Book Fair & Storytime with the Principal at McNair ES 4:30-6:00pm

November 20: PTA November Meeting at the McNair ES Cafeteria, 6:30-8:00pm

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES (Schedule will be shared soon!)

November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We look forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year! #BloomingTogether #McNairCARES

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, November 12, 2024

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)1 week ago

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

This week we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Rose, our wonderful music teacher for sharing her talents with our young singers and preparing them them for their beautiful second grade performance in honor of our Veterans. If you were unable to join us, you are welcome to watch the recorded performance on this link.

Furthermore, we hope that you will join us this Wednesday at Taco Bamba for our PTA Fundraiser! Be sure to mention MCNAIR if purchasing in store or GIVE20 if purchasing online food orders or gift cards.

Next week, we look forward to our Scholastic Book Fair Family Night
& Storytime with the Principal, our November PTA Meeting, and our Thanksgiving Luncheon. Please contact the main office at 703-793-4800 if you are interested in volunteering at our McNair Book Fair or Thanksgiving Luncheon. As you know, teamwork really makes the dream work!

In addition, please see the following for a couple of friendly reminders:

Picture Retakes: These will take place tomorrow on Wednesday, November 13, 2024.
Pumpkin Donations: We are accepting donations for medium/large sized pumpkins so that every classroom this month can participate in a special thankful and grateful activity. We are short pumpkins at this time so your partnership in making this happen is greatly appreciated!

Please continue to take care of yourselves and each other. We are here to support if you or your family need anything. We hope that you all have a wonderful week, Mustangs!

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

As we begin second quarter, please continue to encourage your Mustang to have strong attendance habits! Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success. Visit FCPS’ Attendance web page for tips and strategies.

National School Psychology Week

This week we have the opportunity to celebrate the important work school psychologists do to help all students thrive. We continue to be so appreciative of Ms. Karen Brown, our incredible school psychologist at McNair Elementary School! Thank you Ms. Brown for all that you do for our Mustangs!

Learn more from the National Association of School Psychologists.

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, schools will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, December 4.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Need to Register for ParentVUE?

Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey.

We Are Still Looking For One More Volunteer For The Family Vision Group! Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together!

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

Snacks for the McNair ES and McNair Upper Staffs!

If you are able to do so, please consider donating something. Please click on the following link to sign-up for your donation:

Donations can be dropped off to the designated school's main office each school day between the hours of 8:00 AM-4:00 PM.

Thank you in advance for your support!

All the best,

Mrs. Goddin & Mrs. Watson

Crosswalk Safety at McNair ES

We want to emphasize the importance of safety on our school grounds and surrounding areas. One crucial aspect of this is using the designated crosswalks to safely cross Thomas Jefferson Drive.

Donations Needed: Thankful & Grateful Activity

We are hoping to collect 40 large or medium-sized pumpkins so that each of our homeroom classes and specialists at McNair ES can have one for a project we will be completing during the month of November.

If you are able to donate a pumpkin, please fill out the very brief Google Form: Thankful & Grateful Activity Pumpkins can be dropped off at the main office no later than Wednesday, November 6th. If you have questions, please email Ms. Watson, Principal, at [email protected]. Thank you in advance for your help!

**Please note, McNair Upper ES will also be asking for donations as well. We appreciate all of your support for both school campuses! Please email Principal Goddin for any questions about pumpkin donations at Mcnair Upper ES at [email protected].**

Fall Picture Retakes

Our Fall Picture Retakes at McNair ES will be tomorrow on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. This link will allow parents to sign up to receive updates via email regarding their 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, parents should be sure to enter the student's name as it is on file at the school.

Free Immunizations For All FCPS Students Elementary School Clinics

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter & Important Information AAP November Newsletter

Full Time AAP Referrals

Referral Office Hours with Mrs. Burg

Friday 11/8, 9am-10am
Thursday 11/14, 12pm-1pm
Monday 12/2 10am-11am
Wednesday 12/11 5pm-6pm
Friday 12/13 TBD

Use this Zoom Link to enter. Please email Mrs. Burg ahead of time if you would like translation services.

Cafeteria Hostess Opportunity

Tutoring Resources for Families

✨ 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.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

Volunteer at McNair! Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

We appreciate your ongoing partnership and support to make events like these possible for all of our Mustangs!

PTA Updates Get Involved with the PTA!

For more information or to apply, please reach out to our PTA at [email protected]

Our PTA Is Now on Facebook!

Please like & follow to get the latest updates. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567288287981

Harris Teeter Together In Education- Fundraiser

Instruction for Families

Option 1: Please use the annual sign up form for the TIE program from Harris Teeter using the following link: McNair Harris Teeter

**Note: You need to re-register every year for this program.**

Option 2: You can also sign up in-person at the counter using our school code: 5090

Taco Bamba Fundraiser is tomorrow, November 13th!

Event Date: Wednesday, November 13, 2024

Be sure to mention the coupon code or the organization’s name upon ordering in-store for credit. When purchasing gift cards or ordering online through Taco Bamba’s website, guests will enter the code: GIVE20 in the coupon code area at check-out.

PTA Volunteers Needed

We need volunteers to be Event Coordinators for the following Events:

Financial Committee (3 volunteers needed!)
Movie Night
Bingo Night
Running Event (fun run or color run)
International Night/Cultural Fair
Student Talent Show
Kids vs. Adults Sports Tournament
6th Grade Promotion Ceremony

What Does an Event Coordinator Do?

Event Coordinators act as the main organizer and point of contact for their chosen event; lead a team of volunteers, brainstorm ideas, and make sure everything runs smoothly on the day of the event.

We're also looking for friendly Coaches and volunteers to host events like Science Olympiad Division B, ACSL, Odyssey of the Mind and Reflections.

Please click on the link to join the volunteer group:

PTA Reflections Update

If you've signed up for the PTA Reflections 2024-2025, it's time to submit your work. Just make sure to follow all the instructions. Good luck!

Submission Format: Digital

Submissions Due Date: November 13th, 2024

Submission Details Link: https://mcnairespta.givebacks.com/w/reflections

Community Resources

Buy Nothing Facebook Group Herndon: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/d5K39SGGSU2eRZQU/

PTA General Meeting

The slide deck for the general membership meeting held on October 16th can be found here: October PTA General Membership Meeting Information

Any questions? send an email to[email protected]

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.

📍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.

IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair

Parents/caregivers, school staff, and students over the age of 14 are invited to attend an interactive event celebrating the individualized education program (IEP) process. The IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair will take place on Saturday, November 16, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at Jackson Middle School.

The event is sponsored by Fairfax County Special Education Parent Teacher Association (SEPTA). Activities include simulated IEP meetings, break-out sessions on the various parts of an IEP, and a resource fair to learn more about community supports. Register in advance.

Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students

Students with sensory disabilities require specialized services and support to access instruction that is typically presented visually and auditorily (by means of hearing). FCPS provides educational services to students who are deaf, hearing-impaired, or visually impaired. They are supported in various settings, including at their school or through itinerant specialists who travel to different schools to work with students, rather than being based in a single school. Learn more about Services for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and Services for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired.

Visit the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) website for Resources for Serving Students with Sensory Disabilities.

CTE Career Development Month

Native American Heritage Month

Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

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.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

Fall Testing Results
Boundary Review Community Meetings
Resources for Families

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay In Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

November 13: Fall Picture Retakes at McNair ES

November 13: PTA Fundraiser at Taco Bamba (Code: "McNair/Give20")

November 18-22: The Scholastic Book Fair at McNair ES

November 20: Family Night at the Book Fair & Storytime with the Principal at McNair ES 4:30-6:00pm

November 20: PTA November Meeting at McNair Upper ES, 6:30-8:00pm

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES (Schedule will be shared soon!)

November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We look forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year! #BloomingTogether #McNairCARES

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, November 7, 2024

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)1 week 6 days ago

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

We have had a great start to the second quarter and continue to maximize every minute through providing rich learning experiences for our students. In addition, November is Take A Legislator to School Month. We are excited to announce that School Board Member Melanie Meren will be visiting McNair Elementary School and McNair Upper Elementary School today along with Senator Boysko and Delegate Shin. This is a fantastic opportunity to highlight the incredible work of our dedicated staff who are committed to helping our Mustangs reach their fullest potential.

Additionally, please mark your calendars for our upcoming events. We cannot wait for our Virtual Veterans Day 2nd Grade Performance on Friday, and later this month our McNair Book Fair Family Night and Storytime with Principal Watson, and our Thanksgiving Luncheon. Please be sure to contact the main office at 703-793-4800 if you are interested in volunteering at any of our upcoming events. Teamwork makes the dream work!

Below are just a couple of friendly reminders for this week:

Virtual Veterans Day 2nd Grade Performance: We will be sharing a link soon with our school community for this special performance to honor our Veterans on Friday, November 8th at 2:20pm.
Pumpkin Donations: We are accepting donations for medium/large sized pumpkins so that every classroom this month can participate in a special thankful and grateful activity. Your partnership in making this happen is greatly appreciated!
Outstanding Employee Awards: Nominate our amazing staff! To submit a nomination for a McNair Elementary School Outstanding Employee, please complete the nomination through this Google form link: Click Here

Take care of yourselves and each other. We are here to support if you or your family need anything. We hope that you all have a wonderful week, Mustangs!

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

It is critical to develop strong attendance habits. Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success. Visit FCPS’ Attendance web page for tips and strategies.

Outstanding Employee Awards! Last chance to nominate a McNair Elementary School Outstanding Employee!

To submit a nomination for a McNair Elementary School Outstanding Employee in one of the categories below, please complete the nomination through this Google form link: Click Here You may nominate one employee at our school or multiple employees (one individual may only nominate one employee per category.)

All that is required for a preliminary nomination is a paragraph or two about how this employee demonstrates exceptional work in one or more of the criteria for that award category. The google form link has more information regarding the criteria for each of these awards. The eligibility requirements are below.

Outstanding Teacher

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category

Outstanding New Teacher

Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category

Outstanding New Principal

Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district)

Outstanding Principal

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district)

Outstanding Leader

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal) at their current location

Common positions in this category: Assistant and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services

Outstanding Professional Employee

Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership at their current location

Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, After-School Specialist, MTSS Coordinator, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school, Special Education Department Chairs that teach less than 50% of their time, Reading Specialists that do not have a regular course load/do not give grades

Outstanding Operational Employee

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee at their current location

Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons.

The deadline to submit a nomination is Wednesday, November 6th.

If you have any questions, please contact Ann Ohr at [email protected] or Caitlyn Reilly at [email protected].

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!

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, schools will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, December 4.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Need to Register for ParentVUE?

Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey.

We Are Still Looking For One More Volunteer For The Family Vision Group! Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together!

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

Snacks for the McNair ES and McNair Upper Staffs!

If you are able to do so, please consider donating something. Please click on the following link to sign-up for your donation:

Donations can be dropped off to the designated school's main office each school day between the hours of 8:00 AM-4:00 PM.

Thank you in advance for your support!

All the best,

Mrs. Goddin & Mrs. Watson

Crosswalk Safety at McNair ES

We want to emphasize the importance of safety on our school grounds and surrounding areas. One crucial aspect of this is using the designated crosswalks to safely cross Thomas Jefferson Drive.

Donations Needed: Thankful & Grateful Activity

Honoring Our Veterans At McNair

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. Learn more about the history of Veterans Day at va.gov.

Our McNair second grade students have been practicing songs to celebrate and honor our Veterans. The second-grade students will participate in a performance at school on Friday, November 8th to thank all who have served. There will be an assembly for all students at 2:20pm and all Veterans are welcome to join in person. The performance will be virtual/online for parents/guardians and families where we will livestream the performance. As the performance gets closer, we will share the link for parents/guardians and families to join virtually. For the assembly, we are asking ALL second-grade students to wear a solid red, white, or blue top/shirt.

If you are a military Veteran or have military family members, we would love for you to let us know and share a picture with us by Friday, November 1st. Thank you for your support and feel free to email Ms. Rose at [email protected] with any questions or pictures! If you would prefer to send in a picture with your child, please, have it labeled with your child’s name and teacher, so we are able to return it. Thank you for your partnership and support.

Fall Picture Retakes

Our Fall Picture Retakes at McNair ES will be on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. This link will allow parents to sign up to receive updates via email regarding their 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, parents should be sure to enter the student's name as it is on file at the school.

Free Immunizations For All FCPS Students Elementary School Clinics

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter & Important Information AAP November Newsletter

Full Time AAP Referrals

Referral Office Hours with Mrs. Burg

Friday 11/8, 9am-10am
Thursday 11/14, 12pm-1pm
Monday 12/2 10am-11am
Wednesday 12/11 5pm-6pm
Friday 12/13 1pm-2pm

Use this Zoom Link to enter. Please email Mrs. Burg ahead of time if you would like translation services.

Cafeteria Hostess Opportunity

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

Volunteer at McNair! Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

We appreciate your ongoing partnership and support to make events like these possible for all of our Mustangs!

PTA Updates Get Involved with the PTA!

For more information or to apply, please reach out to our PTA at [email protected]

Our PTA Is Now on Facebook!

Please like & follow to get the latest updates. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567288287981

Harris Teeter Together In Education- Fundraiser

Instruction for Families

Option 1: Please use the annual sign up form for the TIE program from Harris Teeter using the following link: McNair Harris Teeter

**Note: You need to re-register every year for this program.**

Option 2: You can also sign up in-person at the counter using our school code: 5090

Taco Bamba Fundraiser is November 13th!

Event Date: Wednesday, 13th November 2024

PTA Volunteers Needed

We need volunteers to be Event Coordinators for the following Events:

Movie Night
Bingo Night
Running Event (fun run or color run)
International Night/Cultural Fair
Student Talent Show
Kids vs. Adults Sports Tournament
6th Grade Promotion Ceremony

What Does an Event Coordinator Do?

Event Coordinators act as the main organizer and point of contact for their chosen event; lead a team of volunteers, brainstorm ideas, and make sure everything runs smoothly on the day of the event.

We're also looking for friendly Coaches and volunteers to host events like Science Olympiad Division B, ACSL, Odyssey of the Mind and Reflections.

Please click on the link to join the volunteer group:

PTA Reflections Update

If you've signed up for the Reflections, please have your entry ready! The submission deadline is November 13th, 2024. The PTA will share the submission process soon.

Odyssey of the Mind is Starting Soon!

Calling all problem solvers, writers, actors, scientists, engineers, project managers, artists, and creative thinkers! At OOTM, students work together to develop a solution to their chosen problem for a regional competition in March. Students will learn to work as part of a team, think creatively, learn new skills, make new friends, and have lots of fun. If you are interested, please fill out the form OOTM Interest Form 2024-25 by November 7th! (Note this does require some level of participation from the parents as coaches/co-coaches or volunteers.)

Link for the OOTM interest form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeTX6SfiWQb9UgWGlL4EtBBTkx01D2sY4MFer4EtL3ZN7mPVQ/viewform?pli=1

Community Resources

Buy Nothing Facebook Group Herndon: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/d5K39SGGSU2eRZQU/

PTA General Meeting

The slide deck for the general membership meeting held on October 16th can be found here: October PTA General Membership Meeting Information

Any questions? send an email to[email protected]

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions at the final community conversation this fall. It will be held Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School. Click the date to register. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

CTE Career Development Month

Native American Heritage Month

Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

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.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

Calendar Reminders
Resources for Families
Complete Impact Aid Survey

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay In Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

November 8: Virtual 2nd Grade Veterans Day Performance (Link coming soon for families!) **This will be a school-wide assembly for students.**

November 11: All Schools Closed, Veterans Day

November 13: Fall Picture Retakes at McNair ES

November 13: PTA Fundraiser at Taco Bamba (Code: "McNair Give20")

November 18-22: The Scholastic Book Fair at McNair ES

November 20: Family Night at the Book Fair at McNair ES

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES

November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We look forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year! #BloomingTogether #McNairCARES

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, October 30, 2024

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)2 weeks 6 days ago

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

Tomorrow marks the end of the first quarter and there is so much to celebrate! We are so proud of our Mustangs for having a strong start to the 2024-2025 school year. Furthermore, please ensure that you have scheduled a conference with your child's teacher. We believe that a collaborative relationship between home and school is crucial to student success.

Additionally, please mark your calendars for our upcoming events! We cannot wait to welcome our families to our Storybook Character Parade tomorrow at 9:15am, our Virtual Veterans Day 2nd Grade Performance, our McNair Book Fair Family Night, and our Thanksgiving Luncheon.

Below are just a couple of friendly reminders for this week:

2 Hour Early Release Day: The end of first quarter is on Thursday, October 31. All students will be dismissed at 1:30pm. (There will be no afternoon Preschool for the ECCB Program tomorrow.)
Annual Storybook Character Parade: This special event will take place on October 31st at 9:15am on the McNair ES field.
Outstanding Employee Awards: Nominate our amazing staff! To submit a nomination for a McNair Elementary School Outstanding Employee, please complete the nomination through this Google form link by November 6th: Click Here

Take care of yourselves and each other. We are here to support if you or your family need anything. We hope that you all have a wonderful week, Mustangs!

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters Students Are Learning Every Day!

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 long 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.

Outstanding Employee Awards! Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards!

Outstanding Teacher

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category

Outstanding New Teacher

Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category

Outstanding New Principal

Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district)

Outstanding Principal

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district)

Outstanding Leader

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal) at their current location

Common positions in this category: Assistant and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services

Outstanding Professional Employee

Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership at their current location

Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, After-School Specialist, MTSS Coordinator, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school, Special Education Department Chairs that teach less than 50% of their time, Reading Specialists that do not have a regular course load/do not give grades

Outstanding Operational Employee

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee at their current location

Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons.

The deadline to submit a nomination is Wednesday, November 6th.

If you have any questions, please contact Ann Ohr at [email protected] or Caitlyn Reilly at [email protected].

Our Annual Storybook Character Day & Parade Once upon a time, McNair Elementary and McNair Upper Elementary Schools brought storybook characters to life!

We are excited to celebrate Storybook Character Day on October 31st! We invite all students to dress up and join in on the FUN! Students are encouraged to use their creativity to dress in a school appropriate, storybook character costume. Student costumes can be bought or homemade. Costumes may be elaborate or simple. Make sure to bring a book with you! Please no masks or toy weapons.

If your student needs supplies to make a costume, please contact our school counselors Ms. Ford ([email protected]) or Ms. Coe ([email protected]).

Storybook Character Parade

We invite parents/guardians to attend our Storybook Character Parade on October 31st. Both McNair Upper ES students and McNair ES students will be participating in the parade. The parade will begin promptly at 9:15am on the field between both school buildings. On the map below, you will see where families can sign into the parade and receive a visitor badge to enter the field area. This is for safety and security purposes so we encourage families to arrive early so that they do not miss the parade!

If it rains on October 31st, the parade will take place inside each building's gymnasiums. (The two schools would host their own parade in their building as opposed to joining together.)

*Our afternoon preschool students accessing the afternoon ECCB programs will participate in an afternoon parade on Wednesday, October 30th inside of the building starting at 12:10pm. (Their parade is the day ahead due to the 2 hour early dismissal on October 31st.) For our preschool parents/guardians, we invite you to sign in at the office. The parade route for the afternoon will be inside of the building.*

Parade Route Map

Elementary School Language Arts Grading Updates

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!

Return Your Federal Impact Aid Survey

For any families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE, schools will provide paper forms starting Wednesday, November 13. Paper forms should be returned by Wednesday, December 4.

For more information, please watch this video on Impact Aid and visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.

Need to Register for ParentVUE?

Learn how to activate your SIS ParentVUE account, so you can easily submit your survey.

We Are Still Looking For One More Volunteer For The Family Vision Group! Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together!

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

Snacks for the McNair ES and McNair Upper Staffs!

If you are able to do so, please consider donating something. Please click on the following link to sign-up for your donation:

Donations can be dropped off to the designated school's main office each school day between the hours of 8:00 AM-4:00 PM.

Thank you in advance for your support!

All the best,

Mrs. Goddin & Mrs. Watson

Crosswalk Safety at McNair ES

We want to emphasize the importance of safety on our school grounds and surrounding areas. One crucial aspect of this is using the designated crosswalks to safely cross Thomas Jefferson Drive.

Donations Needed: Thankful & Grateful Activity

Honoring Our Veterans At McNair

Fall Picture Retakes

Free Immunizations For All FCPS Students Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students

Safeway Pharmacy will host immunization clinics for any FCPS student age 18 or younger at Frost Middle School on Monday, October 28, and Tuesday, October 29, from 3 to 7 p.m.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students age 18 or younger to provide consent. Learn more about immunization resources and registering in other languages for the Safeway clinic.

Students age 19 and older may access free immunizations at their middle/high school immunization clinic, the Fairfax County Health Department or through other community resources.

Elementary School Clinics

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter & Important Information AAP October Newsletter

This month, Mrs. Janofsky and Mrs. Burg highlight October’s Disability History and Awareness month and the Critical and Creative Thinking strategy of Point of View. Inside you will find an at home activity/work sample idea as well as conversation starters to have with your mustangs. Check out the latest edition of the October AART Newsletter.

Full Time AAP Referrals

Referral Office Hours with Mrs. Burg

Friday 11/8, 9am-10am
Thursday 11/14, 12pm-1pm
Monday 12/2 10am-11am
Wednesday 12/11 5pm-6pm
Friday 12/13 1pm-2pm

Use this Zoom Link to enter. Please email Mrs. Burg ahead of time if you would like translation services.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

Volunteer at McNair! Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

We appreciate your ongoing partnership and support to make events like these possible for all of our Mustangs!

PTA Updates Get Involved with the PTA!

For more information or to apply, please reach out to our PTA at [email protected]

Our PTA Is Now on Facebook!

Please like & follow to get the latest updates.: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567288287981

Harris Teeter Together In Education- Fundraiser

Instruction for Families

Option 1: Please use the annual sign up form for the TIE program from Harris Teeter using the following link: McNair Harris Teeter

**Note: You need to re-register every year for this program.**

Option 2: You can also sign up in-person at the counter using our school code: 5090

Taco Bamba Fundraiser is November 13th!

Event Date: Wednesday, 13th November 2024

PTA Volunteers Needed

We need volunteers to be Event Coordinators for the following Events:

Movie Night
Bingo Night
Running Event (fun run or color run)
International Night/Cultural Fair
Student Talent Show
Kids vs. Adults Sports Tournament
6th Grade Promotion Ceremony

What Does an Event Coordinator Do?

Event Coordinators act as the main organizer and point of contact for their chosen event; lead a team of volunteers, brainstorm ideas, and make sure everything runs smoothly on the day of the event.

We're also looking for friendly Coaches and volunteers to host events like Science Olympiad Division B, ACSL, Odyssey of the Mind and Reflections.

Please click on the link to join the volunteer group:

PTA Reflections Update

If you've signed up for the Reflections, please have your entry ready! The submission deadline is November 13th, 2024. The PTA will share the submission process soon.

Odyssey of the Mind is Starting Soon!

Link for the OOTM interest form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeTX6SfiWQb9UgWGlL4EtBBTkx01D2sY4MFer4EtL3ZN7mPVQ/viewform?pli=1

Community Resource

Buy Nothing Facebook Group Herndon: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/d5K39SGGSU2eRZQU/

PTA General Meeting

The slide deck for the general membership meeting held on October 16th can be found here: October PTA General Membership Meeting Information

Any questions? send an email to[email protected]

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

Disability History Awareness Month

In Virginia during October, Disability History and Awareness activities provide an opportunity to create greater public awareness for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of full inclusion in our community.

National Bullying Prevention Month

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. To help develop a common understanding of Bullying, below is the FCPS definition.

Bullying in Students Rights and Responsibilities is defined as: “Any aggressive and unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim; involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors and victim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. “Bullying” includes cyberbullying. “Bullying” does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument, or peer conflict.”

For more information on how FCPS handles a bullying situation please visit the FCPS Bullying Prevention and Intervention webpage. Our goal is to ensure all students feel safe and welcome at school. If you have questions and/or concerns about something that is going on at school, please contact the front office so that they can support you and most importantly your student.

Diwali is on November 1

We wish a fun Diwali to all celebrating! Diwali is a festival of lights and one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs & some Buddhists. The festival represents the symbolic victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. #OurFCPS

All Saints Day is on November 1

Next week we recognize those in our community observing All Saints Day and Día de los Muertos. For Catholics, All Saints Day (November 1) celebrates all those who are with God in Heaven, known and unknown. All Souls Day (November 2), known in Mexico and Latin America as Día de los Muertos, is a day of remembrance and prayer for all those who have died, especially for the souls who may be in purgatory. These special days are celebrated by Catholics, Anglicans, and some Protestants throughout the world. #OurFCPS

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

Federal Impact Aid Survey
Football Players Tackle Literacy
Tips to Keep Children Safe

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay In Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

October 31: Our Annual McNair & McNair Upper Storybook Character Day Parade at McNair ES on the Field (More details coming soon!)

October 31: 2 Hour Early Release, Dismissal at 1:30pm, End of First Quarter

November 1: All Schools & Offices Closed, Diwali and All Saints Day

November 4: No School For Students, School Planning Day

November 5: No School For Students, Teacher Workday

November 8: Virtual 2nd Grade Veterans Day Performance (Link coming soon for families!) **This will be a school-wide assembly for students.**

November 11: All Schools Closed, Veterans Day

November 13: Fall Picture Retakes at McNair ES

November 18-22: The Scholastic Book Fair at McNair ES

November 20: Family Night at the Book Fair at McNair ES

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES

November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We look forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year! #BloomingTogether #McNairCARES

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, October 23, 2024

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)3 weeks 6 days ago

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

We are so excited to announce that our school has a brand-new crosswalk near the exit of the bus loop at McNair ES! Additionally, we would like to extend a special thank you to our PTA President, Lorelei Cheung, for her partnership, collaboration, and advocacy throughout the process. Please ensure to discuss the importance of crosswalk safety with your child and encourage them to always use the designated paths. Your support in this matter is greatly appreciated.

Furthermore, please mark your calendars for our upcoming events at McNair! We cannot wait to welcome our families to our Storybook Character Parade, our Virtual Veterans Day 2nd Grade Performance, our McNair Book Fair Family Night, and our Thanksgiving Luncheon.

Below are just a couple of friendly reminders:

3 Hour Early Release Day: Our next 3 hour early release day is this upcoming Monday, October 28th at 12:30pm. Student supervision will be available for families who require it. SACC will be available for students that already participate in SACC programming. Please notify your child's teacher if there are any updates to your child's dismissal that is different from the previous 3 hour early release day.
Annual Storybook Character Parade: This special event will take place on October 31st at 9:15am on the McNair ES field.
Outstanding Employee Awards: Nominate our amazing staff! To submit a nomination for a McNair Elementary School Outstanding Employee, please complete the nomination through this Google form link by November 6th: Click Here

Take care of yourselves and each other. We are here to support if you or your family need anything. We hope that you all have a wonderful week, Mustangs!

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters Students Are Learning Every Day!

Outstanding Employee Awards! Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Employee Awards!

Outstanding Teacher

Eligibility: Has at least three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category

Outstanding New Teacher

Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a teacher (in any school/school district); librarians are included in this category

Outstanding New Principal

Eligibility: Has up to three years of experience as a building principal (in any school/school district)

Outstanding Leader

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in their current position as a Schedule-C or School-Based Administrator scale employee (that is not the building principal) at their current location

Common positions in this category: Assistant and Associate Principals, Director of Student Activities, Director of Student Services

Outstanding Professional Employee

Eligibility: At least one year experience in current position as a Schedule-B employee or other non-instructional employee in a school that supports school leadership at their current location

Common positions in this category: School-Based Technology Specialist, Technology Support Specialist, Assessment Coach, Career Center Specialist, Instructional Coach, After-School Specialist, MTSS Coordinator, Psychologist, Social Worker, School Counselor, Safety and Security Specialist, Resource Teachers that serve in an administrative role in a school, Special Education Department Chairs that teach less than 50% of their time, Reading Specialists that do not have a regular course load/do not give grades

Outstanding Operational Employee

Eligibility: At least one year of experience in current position as Schedule-A or Classroom Instructional Support Scale employee at their current location

Common positions in this category: Administrative and Office Staff, Safety and Security Assistant, Custodial Staff, Food Service Staff, IA, PHA, PHTA, All Parent Liaisons.

The deadline to submit a nomination is Wednesday, November 6th.

If you have any questions, please contact Ann Ohr at [email protected] or Caitlyn Reilly at [email protected]

Our Annual Storybook Character Day & Parade Once upon a time, McNair Elementary and McNair Upper Elementary Schools brought storybook characters to life!

If your student needs supplies to make a costume, please contact our school counselors Ms. Ford ([email protected]) or Ms. Coe ([email protected]).

Storybook Character Parade

If it rains on October 31st, the parade will take place inside each building's gymnasiums. (The two schools would host their own parade in their building as opposed to joining together.)

Parade Route Map

We Are Still Looking For One More Volunteer For The Family Vision Group! Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together!

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

Snacks for the McNair ES and McNair Upper Staffs!

If you are able to do so, please consider donating something. Please click on the following link to sign-up for your donation:

Donations can be dropped off to the designated school's main office each school day between the hours of 8:00 AM-4:00 PM.

Thank you in advance for your support!

All the best,

Mrs. Goddin & Mrs. Watson

Crosswalk Safety at McNair ES

We want to emphasize the importance of safety on our school grounds and surrounding areas. One crucial aspect of this is using the designated crosswalks to safely cross Thomas Jefferson Drive.

Donations Needed: Thankful & Grateful Activity

Honoring Our Veterans At McNair

If you are a military Veteran or have military family members, we would love for you to let us know and share a picture with us by Nov 1st. Thank you for your support and feel free to email Ms. Rose at [email protected] with any questions or pictures! If you would prefer to send in a picture with your child, please, have it labeled with your child’s name and teacher, so we are able to return it. Thank you for your partnership and support.

Free Immunizations For All FCPS Students Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students

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

Monday, October 28, 3-7 p.m.

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

Elementary School Clinics

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter & Important Information AAP October Newsletter

McNair Elementary: PreK-2 Mrs. Burg ([email protected])

McNair Upper: Grades 3-6 Mallory Janofsky ([email protected])

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

Volunteer at McNair! Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

We appreciate your ongoing partnership and support to make events like these possible for all of our Mustangs!

PTA Updates Get Involved with the PTA!

For more information or to apply, please reach out to our PTA at [email protected]

Harris Teeter Together In Education- Fundraiser

Instruction for Families

Option 1: Please use the annual sign up form for the TIE program from Harris Teeter using the following link: McNair Harris Teeter

**Note: You need to re-register every year for this program.**

Option 2: You can also sign up in-person at the counter using our school code: 5090

Taco Bamba Fundraiser is November 13th!

Event Date: Wednesday, 13th November 2024

PTA Volunteers Needed

We need volunteers to be Event Coordinators for the following Events:

Movie Night
Bingo Night
Running Event (fun run or color run)
International Night/Cultural Fair
Student Talent Show
Kids vs. Adults Sports Tournament
6th Grade Promotion Ceremony

What Does an Event Coordinator Do?

Event Coordinators act as the main organizer and point of contact for their chosen event; lead a team of volunteers, brainstorm ideas, and make sure everything runs smoothly on the day of the event.

We're also looking for friendly Coaches and volunteers to host events like Science Olympiad Division B, ACSL, Odyssey of the Mind and Reflections.

Please click on the link to join the volunteer group:

PTA Reflections Update

If you've signed up for the Reflections, please have your entry ready! The submission deadline is November 13th, 2024. The PTA will share the submission process soon.

Community Resource

Buy Nothing Facebook Group Herndon: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/d5K39SGGSU2eRZQU/

PTA General Meeting

The slide deck for the general membership meeting held on October 16th can be found here: October PTA General Membership Meeting Information

Any questions? send an email to[email protected]

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 5: Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.

Our final goal is Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation. We are preparing our students for a future that has yet to be imagined. We must give them the skills they will need to succeed. Watch this video to see students exploring and preparing for careers through Career and Technical Experience programs. See how Goal 5 is being put into practice.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the date below to register for any of the following conversations:

Wednesday, October 30, at Herndon Middle School.

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

Disability History Awareness Month

National Bullying Prevention Month

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. To help develop a common understanding of Bullying, below is the FCPS definition.

Diwali is on November 1

All Saints Day is on November 1

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

FCPS Family Orientation
Community Conversations
Immunization Clinics

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay In Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

October 25: Westfield High School Homecoming Parade and Football Game

October 28: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2-Dismissal at 12:30pm

October 31: Our Annual McNair & McNair Upper Storybook Character Day Parade at McNair ES on the Field (More details coming soon!)

October 31: 2 Hour Early Release, Dismissal at 1:30pm, End of First Quarter

November 1: All Schools & Offices Closed, Diwali and All Saints Day

November 4: No School For Students, School Planning Day

November 5: No School For Students, Teacher Workday

November 8: Virtual 2nd Grade Veterans Day Performance (Link coming soon!)

November 11: All Schools Closed, Veterans Day

November 18-22: The Scholastic Book Fair at McNair ES

November 20: Family Night at the Book Fair at McNair ES

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES

November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We look forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year! #BloomingTogether #McNairCares

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, October 15, 2024

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)1 month ago

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

We are having another great week at McNair! Our building has been busy this week as our students have been engaging in meaningful learning opportunities and experiences. It also has been so joyful seeing our students and staff participate in Digital Citizenship Week while showing school spirit and learning about the importance of online safety. We would like to thank Ms. Perri, our School Based Technology Specialist (SBTS) teacher for leading our community through important conversations about how to use technology respectfully and responsibly.

Below are just a couple of friendly reminders:

AAP Overview of the Full Time Screening Process: Learn more on Monday, October 21st at 6:00pm at the McNair Upper ES Cafeteria.
PTA Meeting: Our next meeting will take place on Wednesday, October 16 at 6:30pm. We hope you will join the McNair PTA!
3 Hour Early Release Day: Our next 3 hour early release day is Monday, October 28th at 12:30pm. Student supervision will be available for families who require it. SACC will be available for students that already participate in SACC programming.
Annual Storybook Character Parade: This special event will take place on October 31st at 9:15am on the McNair ES field.

Take care of yourselves and each other. We are here to support if you or your family need anything. Thank you all for your continuous partnership and support. We hope that you all have a wonderful week, Mustangs!

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters 🙋 Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

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

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.

Our Annual Storybook Character Day & Parade Once upon a time, McNair Elementary and McNair Upper Elementary Schools brought storybook characters to life!

If your student needs supplies to make a costume, please contact our school counselors Ms. Ford ([email protected]) or Ms. Coe ([email protected]).

Storybook Character Parade

If it rains on October 31st, the parade will take place inside each building's gymnasiums. (The two schools would host their own parade in their building as opposed to joining together.)

Parade Route Map

We Are Still Looking For One More Volunteer For The Family Vision Group! Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together!

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

Snacks for the McNair ES and McNair Upper Staffs!

If you are able to do so, please consider donating something. Please click on the following link to sign-up for your donation:

Donations can be dropped off to the designated school's main office each school day between the hours of 8:00 AM-4:00 PM.

Thank you in advance for your support!

All the best,

Mrs. Goddin & Mrs. Watson

Crosswalk Safety at McNair ES

We want to emphasize the importance of safety on our school grounds and surrounding areas. One crucial aspect of this is using the designated crosswalks to safely cross Thomas Jefferson Drive.

Digital Citizenship Week At McNair! A Message From Ms. Perri

Dear Families,

I'm Kimberly Perri, your child's Technology Teacher and School-Based Technology Specialist at McNair Elementary School.

This week, we're celebrating Digital Citizenship Week! Our Mustangs will be diving into a variety of activities to learn about staying safe and responsible online.

To help you reinforce these important lessons at home, I encourage you to explore the following website: [https://www.commonsense.org/education/family-engagement-resources]

You'll find a wealth of resources, including articles, videos, and workshops, on topics like online safety, learning with technology, and more.

Thank you for your support in helping us create a safe and positive online environment for all our Mustangs. Below is our optional Spirit Week Dress Up Week!

Please reach out if you have any questions.

Ms. Kimberly Perri

[email protected]

Show Your Spirit, Mustangs!

Math Is Everywhere! Talking To Your Children About Mathematics

Join the FCPS Elementary Math Team to discuss ways to engage your children in mathematics. During our time together we will highlight books, games, and other materials that assist you in talking about mathematics with your child throughout the day. Teaching math to your children doesn’t have to be intimidating. This webinar will provide concrete examples for caregivers with ideas to spark math joy.

October 18, 2024, 10-11:30 A.M. Register Online

Free Immunizations For All FCPS Students Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students

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

Monday, October 28, 3-7 p.m.

Elementary School Clinics

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter & Important Information AAP October Newsletter

Save the Date: An Overview of the AAP Full Time Screening Process

Monday, October 21st from 6:00-7:00 p.m. at the McNair Upper Elementary School Cafeteria

Please join us to learn about the Full Time AAP Screening Process. We will discuss important deadlines and what families and schools submit in the screening portfolio. Students in Grades 2-7 are eligible for Full Time screening. Please note that this is AFTER the October 15 fall referral deadline. If you are eligible for fall screening, you must turn in the referral prior to this meeting. Please reach out to Mrs. Janofsky if you need more information.

Spanish translation will be available at each session. Please contact us directly if you need a translator for a different language. The slide decks will also be shared on our respective websites following each meeting. You are welcome to reach out to your school’s AART with questions about either session.

McNair Elementary: PreK-2 Mrs. Burg ([email protected])

McNair Upper: Grades 3-6 Mallory Janofsky ([email protected])

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

Volunteer at McNair! Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

We would greatly appreciate your support! Please do not hesitate to reach out to us! If you are interested, please contact the Main Office at 703-793-4800. You may also email our Administrative Assistant, Julia Smoot at [email protected].

PTA Updates October PTA Meeting

PTA invites all the members & non-members for the next General Meeting (attend In-Person or Virtually)

Date: Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Time: 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
In Person Location: McNair ES, 2499 Thomas Jefferson Dr., Herndon, VA 20171
Virtual: Google Meet joining info:

Video call link: https://meet.google.com/teo-zsio-yvc

Or dial: ‪(US) +1 619-836-1328 PIN: ‪943 585 838#

More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/teo-zsio-yvc?pin=6066876682452

Last month's PTA general meeting slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1AocEhmUzfRxpYngcMiIj45S0_SLtIYlY/edit#slide=id.p1

Get Involved with the PTA!

For more information or to apply, please reach out to our PTA at [email protected]

McNair PTA is excited to bring back the After School Clubs! The registration is now open!

We have so many clubs to choose from! There's the Business Club, Art Club, Active Sports Club, Game Club, Guitar and Ukulele Club, Running Club, Engineering and Computer Science Club, Debate Club, Newspaper Club, Crochet Club, Video Game Design Club, Origami Club, McNair ERAS Tour Club.

Registration Link for After School Clubs
- Sign-Up for McNair After School Clubs
Registration link for upcoming art competition "Reflections"
- 24-25 Reflections Registration
Guidelines for "Reflections"
- 24-25 Reflection Guidelines

Harris Teeter Together In Education- Fundraiser

Instruction for Families

Option 1: Please use the annual sign up form for the TIE program from Harris Teeter using the following link: McNair Harris Teeter

**Note: You need to re-register every year for this program.**

Option 2: You can also sign up in-person at the counter using our school code: 5090

Current Board Members of McNair PTA

President: Lorelei Cheung

Secretary: Rekha Mani

Treasurer: Sukumar Krishnamurthy

VP of Fundraising & Appreciation: Amrita Singh

VP of Events and Community Outreach: Miranda Butzlaff

VP of Club & Competition Programming: Danielle Tyler

VP of Membership & Volunteers: Gowri Kaliappan

VP of Communications: Sayanti Dasgupta

VP of Technology: Dileep Soundararajan

Competitions Co-Chairs: Archana Pattem & Satya Gunisetti

Vacant PTA Positions

Assistant to VP of Events & Community Outreach
Teacher Appreciation Chair
Financial Secretary
Technology Chair

We're also looking for friendly coaches and volunteers to host events like Science Olympiad Division B, ACSL, Odyssey of the Mind, and Reflections.

Please click on the link to join the volunteer group:

For more information please email the PTA Board at [email protected]

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 5: Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:

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

Westfield High School Festival

Disability History Awareness Month

National Bullying Prevention Month

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. To help develop a common understanding of Bullying, below is the FCPS definition.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

Learn About Lexia for Literacy
The Power of School Lunches
Upcoming Community Conversations

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay In Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

October 16: PTA Meeting at 6:30pm at McNair ES, Cafeteria

October 19: Westfield High School Theatre's Halloween Festival, 4:00-8:00pm

October 21: Full Time AAP Screening Parent Meeting in the cafeteria at McNair Upper Elementary School (G3-6 building), 6:00-7:00pm

October 21: Dr. Reid's Community Conversations at 6:30pm at Virginia Run ES

October 25: Westfield High School Homecoming Parade and Football Game

October 28: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2-Dismissal at 12:30pm

October 31: Our Annual McNair & McNair Upper Storybook Character Day Parade at McNair ES on the Field (More details coming soon!)

October 31: 2 Hour Early Release, Dismissal at 1:30pm, End of First Quarter

November 1: All Schools & Offices Closed, Diwali

November 4: No School For Students, School Planning Day

November 5: No School For Students, Teacher Workday

November 11: All Schools Closed, Veterans Day

November 18-22: The Scholastic Book Fair at McNair ES

November 20: Family Night at the Book Fair at McNair ES

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES

November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We look forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year! #BloomingTogether #McNairCares

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, October 8, 2024

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)1 month 1 week ago

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

Fall has certainly arrived as the air is getting crisp and the leaves are slowly changing colors. This is such a beautiful season! We have a lot of important events ahead, so please be sure to mark your calendars and read this newsletter carefully. In addition, we invite all McNair families to join the McNair PTA! Our next PTA meeting will be on Wednesday, October 16th at 6:30pm in the McNair Elementary School Cafeteria.

Just a couple of friendly reminders:

Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day is tomorrow, October 9th!
Parent Meeting & Tea with Principal Watson & Reading Specialist Ms. Carper around Literacy Instruction at McNair ES, will be on Friday, October 11th. (Session 1: 9:00am & Session 2: 2:30 PM)
Indigenous Peoples' Day is on Monday, October 14th. On this day, there is no school for students. This is a Staff Development Day.
Donations for McNair ES & McNair Upper ES Staff: Please sign up to donate some snacks for our amazing staff! Fall Snacks Sign-Up Form

Furthermore, we are continuing to keep our McNair community in our thoughts as we know many of you may have loved ones impacted by the hurricane down south. Please reach out if there is anyway that we can support your student or your family.

Thank you all for your continuous partnership and support. We hope that you all have a wonderful week, Mustangs!

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters 🗓️ Attendance Expectations

Regular attendance can help students be successful in the classroom, graduate on time, and achieve their life goals. If students miss too much school, school staff may contact parents/guardians to work with them to support improved attendance. Visit our website for more attendance resources.

We Are Still Looking For One More Volunteer For The Family Vision Group! Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together!

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

Snacks for the McNair ES and McNair Upper Staffs!

If you are able to do so, please consider donating something. Please click on the following link to sign-up for your donation:

Donations can be dropped off to the designated school's main office each school day between the hours of 8:00 AM-4:00 PM.

Thank you in advance for your support!

All the best,

Mrs. Goddin & Mrs. Watson

Crosswalk Safety at McNair ES

We want to emphasize the importance of safety on our school grounds and surrounding areas. One crucial aspect of this is using the designated crosswalks to safely cross Thomas Jefferson Drive.

Arrival/Dismissal Friendly Reminders

In order to ensure the safety of our community, for families that choose to drive their student(s) to school, please utilize the kiss-and-ride loops at both McNair campuses during arrival and dismissal for students in grades K-2. Families of our preschool students should use street parking. Please avoid parking at the Townes of Copper Mill during these times. We appreciate your attention to this matter.

👟Walk, Bike, & Roll to School Day Let’s Walk, Bike, and Roll to School!

Join us for Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day on Wednesday, October 9! Walking and biking promote physical activity, reduces traffic, and teaches our students important pedestrian skills. Let’s create a healthier and safer community together!

Click here to get more information about Walk and Roll to School Day.

Show Your Spirit, Mustangs!

Free Immunizations For All FCPS Students Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students

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

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

Elementary School Clinics

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter & Important Information AAP October Newsletter

Save the Date: An Overview of the AAP Full Time Screening Process

Monday, October 21st from 6:00-7:00 p.m. at the McNair Upper Elementary School Cafeteria

McNair Elementary: PreK-2 Mrs. Burg ([email protected])

McNair Upper: Grades 3-6 Mallory Janofsky ([email protected])

📚 Social Studies Basal Resources Review

FCPS is adopting Social Studies Basal Resources for the 2025-26 school year. Basal resources are the primary resources used to support instruction in a given subject. Public review of the instructional materials under consideration — which is part of the process for selecting new resources — is underway. Visit the Community Review webpage for more information on how to view the materials online or in person.

All community feedback will be shared with School Board members before they vote to select materials in spring 2025. FCPS adopts basal resources by the process outlined in Regulation 3004.

Power Pack Program

Power Packs are Ziploc bags of food sent home every Friday with students who do not get enough food on the weekends without their school-provided meals. Your child can receive a pack if they qualify for free or reduced meals through the school.

If you need this program, please fill out this form: Power Pack Form or scan the QR Code below.

Please fill out a separate form for each child at McNair Elementary. Your information is confidential. Once we receive your form, we will email you with more information. You may also contact our School Counselors or Parent Liaison with any questions you may have.

Kristin Coe [email protected]

Donna Ford [email protected]

Selene Vargas (se habla español) [email protected]

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

Volunteer at McNair! Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

PTA Updates October PTA Meeting

Join us Wednesday, October 16th from 6:30-7:30pm at McNair Elementary School for our General Membership PTA Meeting. We hope to see you there!

Get Involved with the PTA!

For more information or to apply, please reach out to our PTA at [email protected]

McNair PTA is excited to bring back the After School Clubs! The registration is now open!

Registration Link for After School Clubs
- Sign-Up for McNair After School Clubs
Registration link for upcoming art competition "Reflections"
- 24-25 Reflections Registration
Guidelines for "Reflections"
- 24-25 Reflection Guidelines

Teaching Your Kids Dollar$ and Cent$:

Did you know, teaching children about money early, leads them to become more financially independent as they get older? Come learn how to help your children establish wise financial habits that will build a strong foundation for their future.

Join the Parenting Education Program on Tuesday, October 8 at 6:30pm

Join online Via Zoom

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87122481968 Password: Parents24$

Current Board Members of McNair PTA

President: Lorelei Cheung

Secretary: Rekha Mani

Treasurer: Sukumar Krishnamurthy

VP of Fundraising & Appreciation: Amrita Singh

VP of Events and Community Outreach: Miranda Butzlaff

VP of Club & Competition Programming: Danielle Tyler

VP of Membership & Volunteers: Gowri Kaliappan

VP of Communications: Sayanti Dasgupta

VP of Technology: Dileep Soundararajan

Competitions Co-Chairs: Archana Pattem & Satya Gunisetti

Vacant PTA Positions

Assistant to VP of Events & Community Outreach
Teacher Appreciation Chair
Financial Secretary
Technology Chair

We're also looking for friendly coaches and volunteers to host events like Science Olympiad Division B, ACSL, Odyssey of the Mind, and Reflections.

Please click on the link to join the volunteer group:

For more information please email the PTA Board at [email protected]

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 5: Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

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

The Office of the Ombuds Staff

The Office of the Ombuds staff engage with families, students, and staff to offer resources, assist in settling conflicts, and raise concerns to improve the experience of each and every member of the FCPS community. They work as an independent confidential resource to help get answers to questions, resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.

The ombuds is available to:

Share strategies for parents to improve communication with, and between, school and home.
Help resolve disagreements between parents and schools or disagreements involving employees in the workplace.
Provide ideas to foster parent participation in Individual Education Plan (IEP) and 504 Plan meetings.

Ombuds staff do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.

Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints to share with the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected], or visit their webpage, where you may Submit a Question.

Yom Kippur

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

Indigenous Peoples’ Day

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

FCPS Parent Workshop National Hispanic Heritage Month

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

Disability History Awareness Month

National Bullying Prevention Month

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. To help develop a common understanding of Bullying, below is the FCPS definition.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:
All FCPS Schools Accredited
How FCPS Is Teaching Reading and Writing
Become a Special Education Teacher

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay In Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

October 9: Walk, Bike, & Roll to School Day

October 11: Parent Meeting & Tea with Principal Watson & Reading Specialist Ms. Carper around Literacy Instruction at McNair ES, Session 1: 9:00am & Session 2: 2:30 PM (Both sessions are the same,)

October 11: Yom Kippur

October 14: Indigenous Peoples' Day, No School for Students, Staff Development Day

October 16: PTA Meeting at 6:30pm at McNair ES, Cafeteria

October 21: Full Time AAP Screening Parent Meeting in the cafeteria at McNair Upper Elementary School (G3-6 building), 6:00-7:00pm

October 21: Dr. Reid's Community Conversations at 6:30pm at Virginia Run ES

October 28: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2-Dismissal at 12:30pm Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

October 31: Our Annual McNair & McNair Upper Storybook Character Day Parade at McNair ES on the Field (More details coming soon!)

October 31: 2 Hour Early Release, Dismissal at 1:30pm, End of First Quarter

November 1: All Schools & Offices Closed, Diwali

November 4: No School For Students, School Planning Day

November 5: No School For Students, Teacher Workday

November 8: 2nd Grade Veterans Day Performance (More information Coming Soon!)

November 11: All Schools & Offices Closed, Veterans Day

November 18-22: The Scholastic Book Fair at McNair ES

November 20: Family Night at the Book Fair at McNair ES

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES

November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We are looking forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year!

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, October 1, 2024

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)1 month 2 weeks ago

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

Thank you for another great week! Our readers, writers, mathematicians, and scientists have been hard at work this week making explorations, stretching their thinking, and taking risks in their learning! We hope that you have been able to check-in with your student to continue the conversations around what they are learning at school and how they might apply those strategies to real world situations and experiences.

In addition, please ensure that you have scheduled a conference with your child's teacher. A strong home-school partnership is very important to us! Furthermore, there is no school for students on Thursday, October 3rd or Friday, October 4th. For those celebrating Rosh Hashanah, Shanah Tovah!

Just a few friendly reminders:

Picture Day is today at McNair! Please see below in regards to how you can order your child's photos.
Schools are closed on Thursday and Friday this week for students.
Custodian Appreciation Day is on Wednesday, October 2nd.
Donations for McNair ES & McNair Upper ES Staff: Please sign up to donate some snacks for our amazing staff! Fall Snacks Sign-Up Form

As always, thank you for your continuous partnership and support. Please be sure to reach out if you have any questions or if there is anyway that we can support your student or your family. We hope that you all have a wonderful week, Mustangs!

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters 🗓️ 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 the FCPS school year calendar and visit the Attendance webpage for additional information. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

Picture Day Is Today at McNair ES! Calling All Smiles!

Fall Picture Day at McNair Elementary School is on October 1, 2024.

To order your child’s photos after today please see the following:

Go to strawbridge.net
Use the code: FM442064
All photos can be ordered online, only. (Please do not send in money.)

Custodian Appreciation Day Wednesday, October 2nd is National Custodian Appreciation Day!

We appreciate our custodians so much as they work tirelessly to ensure that our building sparkles each and everyday in order to provide a clean and safe learning environment for all of our McNair Mustangs! We invite families to share their appreciation by having students write a thank you note, share a drawing, or even provide a treat. This will surely brighten their day!

We Are Still Looking For One More Volunteer For The Family Vision Group! Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

Snacks for the McNair ES and McNair Upper Staffs!

If you are able to do so, please consider donating something. Please click on the following link to sign-up for your donation:

Donations can be dropped off to the designated school's main office each school day between the hours of 8:00 AM-4:00 PM.

Thank you in advance for your support!

All the best,

Mrs. Goddin & Mrs. Watson

Crosswalk Safety at McNair ES

We want to emphasize the importance of safety on our school grounds and surrounding areas. One crucial aspect of this is using the designated crosswalks to safely cross Thomas Jefferson Drive.

👟Walk, Bike, & Roll to School Day Let’s Walk, Bike, and Roll to School!

Click here to get more information about Walk and Roll to School Day.

Free Immunizations For All FCPS Students

Safeway Pharmacy will be providing immunizations for all FCPS students at no cost! Parents or guardians may schedule an appointment and provide consent for their student(s). The immunization clinics are being held at Frost Middle School, 4101 Pickett Rd. Fairfax, VA 22032, on:

Tuesday, October 8, 3 to 7 p.m.
Saturday, October 12, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Students under the age of 19, with a scheduled appointment and parental consent, must be accompanied by their parent, guardian, or another adult over the age of 19.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students under the age of 19 in order to provide consent.

Learn more about immunization resources and registering in other languages for the Safeway clinic.

Elementary School Immunization Clinics to Be Held on Early Release Days

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide immunizations for elementary students on early release Mondays. All school-required immunizations will be offered free of charge at Health Department clinics by appointment only.

Schedule your appointment today by calling 703-246-7100.

Clinics will be held Monday, October 28, and Monday, December 9, 2-7 p.m., at the Annandale District Office, Herndon-Reston District Office, Joseph Willard Health Center. Learn more about these clinics.

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter & Important Information AAP October Newsletter

Save the Date: An Overview of the AAP Full Time Screening Process

Monday, October 21st from 6:00-7:00 p.m. at the McNair Upper Elementary School Cafeteria

McNair Elementary: PreK-2 Mrs. Burg ([email protected])

McNair Upper: Grades 3-6 Mallory Janofsky ([email protected])

AAP Presentation Materials from September 16th

The McNair Advanced Academic Resource Teachers, Mrs. Burg and Mrs. Janofsky, presented information about the Advanced Academic Program in Fairfax County to families on Monday, September 16th. The presentation is now posted on our website for families to reference.

Power Pack Program

If you need this program, please fill out this form: Power Pack Form or scan the QR Code below.

Kristin Coe [email protected]

Donna Ford [email protected]

Selene Vargas (se habla español) [email protected]

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

Volunteer at McNair! Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

PTA Updates October PTA Meeting

Join us Wednesday, October 16th from 6:30-7:30pm at McNair Upper Elementary School for our General Membership PTA Meeting. We hope to see you there!

Get Involved with the PTA!

For more information or to apply, please reach out to our PTA at [email protected]

McNair PTA is excited to bring back the After School Clubs! The registration is now open!

Registration Link for After School Clubs
- Sign-Up for McNair After School Clubs
Registration link for upcoming art competition "Reflections"
- 24-25 Reflections Registration
Guidelines for "Reflections"
- 24-25 Reflection Guidelines

Current Board Members of McNair PTA

President: Lorelei Cheung

Secretary: Rekha Mani

Treasurer: Sukumar Krishnamurthy

VP of Fundraising & Appreciation: Amrita Singh

VP of Events and Community Outreach: Miranda Butzlaff

VP of Club & Competition Programming: Danielle Tyler

VP of Membership & Volunteers: Gowri Kaliappan

VP of Communications: Sayanti Dasgupta

VP of Technology: Dileep Soundararajan

Competitions Co-Chairs: Archana Pattem & Satya Gunisetti

Vacant PTA Positions

Assistant to VP of Events & Community Outreach
Teacher Appreciation Chair
Financial Secretary
Technology Chair

We're also looking for friendly coaches and volunteers to host events like Science Olympiad Division B, ACSL, Odyssey of the Mind, and Reflections.

Please click on the link to join the volunteer group:

For more information please email the PTA Board at [email protected]

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 4: Equitable Access to Opportunities

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.

The fourth goal ensures all students have the same access to opportunities, no matter what school they attend. This includes academics and other programs that inspire and engage students and allow them to explore their passions and talents. See how Goal 4 is being put into practice.

Gun Safety Gun Safety and Safe Gun Storage

Providing students and staff with a safe educational environment remains our priority. Sadly, gun violence continues to impact schools and communities across our nation.

In FCPS, lessons on gun safety are built into our curriculum. It is critical that parents and guardians talk to their children about the importance of gun safety and safe gun storage in their homes, and in any home they may visit.

The FCPS website has gun safety resources as well as information about safety and security practices at schools. See Dr. Reid’s recent letter to the community for more resources.

Safely Store Firearms and Medications

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board has a limited supply of free locking medication boxes and trigger locks that fit a wide variety of firearms. Visit the Lock and Talk website to learn more.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

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

FCPS Parent Workshop

National Hispanic Heritage Month

Disability History Awareness Month

National Bullying Prevention Month

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. To help develop a common understanding of Bullying, below is the FCPS definition.

Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Wednesday, October 2. That day is an evening-only observance day. Important events will not be held after school.

Thursday, October 3, is a holiday for all FCPS staff. Schools and offices will be closed.

Friday, October 4, is a teacher workday and there will be no school for students.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

FCPS Strives to Become Purple Star School Division
Sign and Return SR&R
Upcoming Immunization Clinics

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay In Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

October 1: Picture Day at McNair ES

October 2: Custodian Appreciation Day

October 3: All Schools Closed, Rosh Hashanah

October 4: No School for Students, Teacher Workday

October 9: Walk, Bike, & Roll to School Day

October 14: No School for Students, Staff Development Day

October 21: Full Time AAP Screening Parent Meeting in the cafeteria at McNair Upper Elementary School (G3-6 building), 6:00-7:00pm

October 28: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

October 31: Storybook Character Day at McNair ES

October 31: 2 Hour Early Release, End of First Quarter

November 1: All Schools & Offices Closed, Diwali

November 4: No School For Students, School Planning Day

November 5: No School For Students, Teacher Workday

November 8: 2nd Grade Veterans Day Performance (More information Coming Soon!)

November 11: All Schools & Offices Closed, Veterans Day

November 18-22: The Scholastic Book Fair at McNair ES

November 20: Family Night at the Book Fair at McNair ES

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES

November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We are looking forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year!

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, September 24, 2024

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)1 month 3 weeks ago

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

We officially welcomed fall this past Sunday! Our school building continues to be buzzing with excitement as our Mustangs engage in meaningful learning opportunities. Please ensure to take the time to check in with your child about their learning experiences daily. Also, be sure to mark your calendars! We have a lot of exciting things in store for our Mustang community this season! Please read our newsletter carefully.

Additionally, please see the following for a few friendly reminders:

Immunizations: Please check with your health care provider to ensure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia.
Blue Star Welcome Week: McNair ES & McNair Upper ES Military kids and families are invited for a breakfast on Friday, September 26th from 8:00-8:30am at the McNair Upper ES Cafeteria. Please be sure to RSVP to Mrs. Watson and Mrs. Goddin by Thursday morning. Mustangs, be sure to wear BLUE to show your support on Friday for our Military families!
Picture Day: Make sure Mustangs to bring your smiles! Picture Day at McNair Elementary School is on Tuesday, October 1st.
Donations for McNair ES & McNair Upper ES Staff: Please sign up to donate some snacks for our amazing staff! Fall Snacks Sign-Up Form

As always, thank you for your continuous partnership and support. We hope that you all have a wonderful week, Mustangs!

All the best,

Elizabeth Watson, Principal

Brandy O'Bryant, Assistant Principal

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters We All Belong at School!

Each one of us is unique, and every student matters. If your student is having a difficult time attending class, please speak with a trusted adult at school.

Watch this video to see how everyone belongs at school. Visit our Attendance webpage for resources on attendance. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

Crosswalk Safety at McNair ES

We want to emphasize the importance of safety on our school grounds and surrounding areas. One crucial aspect of this is using the designated crosswalks to safely cross Thomas Jefferson Drive.

We Are Still Looking For Volunteers For The Family Vision Group! Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

If you are interested in serving as a family representative for the McNair ES community, please reach out to Principal Watson by email at [email protected] or by calling the main office at 703-793-4800.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

Snacks for the McNair ES and McNair Upper Staffs!

If you are able to do so, please consider donating something. Please click on the following link to sign-up for your donation:

Donations can be dropped off to the designated school's main office each school day between the hours of 8:00 AM-4:00 PM.

Thank you in advance for your support!

All the best,

Mrs. Goddin & Mrs. Watson

✔️ Parent/Caregiver Checklist: Have You Completed These Important Forms?

We understand that the multiple school forms caregivers receive during the first weeks of school can feel overwhelming, but each one helps set your child up for a successful school year! If you do not have a SIS ParentVUE account, please contact the front office for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage.

🩹 Immunization Requirements

Please check with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school.

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to McNair Elementary School's front office.

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:

A healthcare provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
A healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations.

📋 Permission Forms

Families can easily grant permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. Parents can opt their child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. They can also change how student information is managed.Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. See how to use the tool.

Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)

The SR&R document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when logging in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage. This form should be signed and returned by Monday, September 30.

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter & Important Information September AAP Community Newsletter

Our September newsletter has important information about requesting abilities test retakes as well as about Fall Screening for families that are new to FCPS this year. Please read it carefully and reach out with any questions. AAP Deadlines in FCPS are firm, and we do our best to share them promptly!

Save the Date: An Overview of the AAP Full Time Screening Process

Monday, October 21st from 6:00-7:00 p.m. at the McNair Upper Elementary School Cafeteria

Spanish translation will be available at each session. Please contact us directly if you need a translator for a different language. The slide decks will also be shared on our respective websites following each meeting. You are welcome to reach out to your school’s AART with questions about either session.

McNair Elementary: PreK-2 Mrs. Burg ([email protected])

McNair Upper: Grades 3-6 Mallory Janofsky ([email protected])

AAP Presentation Materials from September 16th

Apply Today!

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

Blue Star Welcome Week

Every year, approximately 600,000 military-connected families relocate. Most of these families move to new duty stations, while some transition out of the military and others transition in. Most of these moves take place over the summer, and Fairfax County Public Schools is committed to ensuring our military families feel welcomed and a sense of belonging to their local community.

At McNair Elementary School and McNair Upper Elementary School, we are hosting a welcome breakfast for military kids and families on Friday, September 27 at the McNair Upper Elementary School Cafeteria to get connected with each other and our school community. We invite our military families to join us in the McNair Upper ES cafeteria from 8:00am-8:30am. If your family plans to attend, please RSVP by emailing Principal Watson at [email protected] by 9:00am on Thursday, September 26.

In addition, to show our military students and families support, we encourage both school communities to wear blue on September 27, 2024.

#BlueStarWelcomeWeekFCPS

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

Children go through a lot of changes, and it can be hard to tell if their behavior is developmentally appropriate or if they could benefit from mental health support. It’s important to talk to your child and pay attention to their actions, especially these warning signs:

Increased irritability, hyperactivity, energy, and/or aggressive behavior.
Excessive sadness, hopelessness, or worries.
Loss of appetite, or significant weight gain or loss.
Lack of sleep or too much sleep.
A decline in grades, school avoidance, or attendance concerns.
Alcohol or drug use.
Withdrawal from activities and/or friends and family.
Thoughts of harming themselves or others.

If you notice any of these warning signs or feel your child may be experiencing a mental health challenge, help is available. Please contact Karen Brown, our school psychologist, Donna Ford or Kristin Coe, our school counselors, or Dena Neverdon, our school social workers at 703-793-4800, to discuss your concerns and identify resources. Find additional ways to support your child’s wellness.

If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis such as thoughts of harming themselves or others, please take action right away. Call 988, go to the nearest emergency room, or contact the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Emergency Services at 703-573-5679.

FCPS Trust Policy Supports Caring Culture

Fairfax County Public Schools is proud of its caring culture and strives to provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for all students and families. The FCPS Trust Policy solidifies this commitment and aligns with Fairfax County Goverment's Public Trust and Confidentiality Policy. It ensures that FCPS students and families can access FCPS benefits and services without fear that information will be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to federal immigration officials. Please visit FCPS’ Trust Policy webpage to learn more about the policy and regulation in multiple languages.

Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

PTA Updates October PTA Meeting

Join us Wednesday, October 16th from 6:30-7:30pm at McNair Upper Elementary School for our General Membership PTA Meeting. We hope to see you there!

Get Involved with the PTA!

For more information or to apply, please reach out to our PTA at [email protected]

Current Board Members of McNair PTA

President: Lorelei Cheung

Secretary: Rekha Mani

Treasurer: Sukumar Krishnamurthy

VP of Fundraising & Appreciation: Amrita Singh

VP of Events and Community Outreach: Miranda Butzlaff

VP of Club & Competition Programming: Danielle Tyler

VP of Membership & Volunteers: Gowri Kaliappan

VP of Communications: Sayanti Dasgupta

VP of Technology: Dileep Soundararajan

Competitions Co-Chairs: Archana Pattem & Satya Gunisetti

Vacant PTA Positions

Assistant to VP of Events & Community Outreach
Teacher Appreciation Chair
Financial Secretary
Technology Chair

We're also looking for friendly coaches and volunteers to host events like Science Olympiad Division B, ACSL, Odyssey of the Mind, and Reflections.

Please click on the link to join the volunteer group:

For more information please email the PTA Board at [email protected]

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.

Our third goal is for all students to achieve academic growth and excellence. We want our students to have the academic skills to be successful. For example, making sure they are readers by third grade and taking courses that challenge them throughout their education will help prepare them for lifelong success. See how Goal 3 is being put into practice.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

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

Westfield High School Dance Team's Fall Clinic Calling all students in Grades 2-6!

Date: Sunday, September 29, 2024

Time: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. (lunch at noon)

Place: Westfield High School (Gym Entrance - Door #11)

Click here to register.

All participants will have the opportunity to perform with the Varsity Dance Team at halftime of the Varsity Football Game vs. Wakefield on Friday, Oct. 4, at 7 p.m. Registration fee includes pizza, snacks, and an official WHS Dance Team t-shirt!

Fall Picture Day at McNair Calling All Smiles!

Fall Picture Day at McNair Elementary School is on October 1, 2024.

National Hispanic Heritage Month

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

Accessing Intervention Plans
Students to Be Surveyed on Social-Emotional Learning
Update Immunizations Today!

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay in Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

September 23-September 27: Blue Star Welcome Week for Military Families

September 27: Blue Star Welcome Week Breakfast for Military kids & families from 8:00-8:30am at the McNair Upper ES cafeteria. Please RSVP to Principal Watson by Thursday, September 26th.

September 27: Wear BLUE to honor our Military Families!

September 30: Acknowledgement of SR&R Review Due. Parents/Guardians may access in SIS ParentVUE or return the signature sheet to the main office.

October 1: Picture Day at McNair ES

October 3: All Schools Closed, Rosh Hashanah

October 4: No School for Students, Teacher Workday

October 11: Parent Meeting & Tea with Principal Watson & Reading Specialist Ms. Carper around Literacy Instruction at McNair ES, Session 1: 9:00am & Session 2: 2:30 PM (Both sessions are the same,)

October 14: No School for Students, Staff Development Day

October 21: Full Time AAP Screening Parent Meeting in the cafeteria at McNair Upper Elementary School (G3-6 building), 6:00-7:00pm

October 28: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

October 31: Storybook Character Day at McNair ES

October 31: 2 Hour Early Release, End of First Quarter

November 1: All Schools & Offices Closed, Diwali

November 4: No School For Students, School Planning Day

November 5: No School For Students, Teacher Workday

November 8: 2nd Grade Veterans Day Performance (More information Coming Soon!)

November 11: All Schools & Offices Closed, Veterans Day

November 18-22: The Scholastic Book Fair at McNair ES

November 20: Family Night at the Book Fair at McNair ES

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES

November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We are looking forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year!

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, September 17, 2024

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)2 months ago

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

It has been another wonderful week at McNair Elementary School watching our students learn, grow, and thrive together. As we approach the middle of September, we want to remind you of the importance of connecting with your child. One great way to foster deeper conversations is by asking them open-ended questions about their day. This can help spark meaningful discussions and give you a glimpse into the learning opportunities that they engaged in at school.

What made you smile today?
Can you tell me about an act of kindness that you did or saw?
What is something creative you did today?
Who did you sit with at lunch today?
Tell me something you learned today.
What did you eat first at lunch?
If you could change one thing about the day, what would it be?
What made your teacher(s) smile today?
What is your favorite thing to do at recess?
What is the best thing that happened today?
Did you help anyone today?
What was your thorn, and what was your rose today?
What are you looking forward to for tomorrow?
Teach me something you learned.
What kinds of things did you see people eating for snack?
Did you learn any new words today?

Additionally, please see the following for a few friendly reminders:

PTA Meeting: Join us at our PTA meeting on Wednesday, September 18th at 6:30pm at the McNair Upper ES Cafeteria.
3 Hour Early Releases Mondays: September 23rd is almost here! Complete the Student Supervision Survey as soon as possible so that we can prioritize your child's safety: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9
Immunizations: Please check with your health care provider to ensure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia.

As always, thank you for your continuous partnership and support. We hope that you all have a wonderful week, Mustangs!

All the best,

Elizabeth Watson, Principal

Brandy O'Bryant, Assistant Principal

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters

🤒 When a Student Should Stay Home From School

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

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

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

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

Action Required: Early Release Mondays

This is a friendly reminder that the Early Release Mondays planned throughout the school year for elementary schools are essential to allow educators time for planning and professional development. Students will be dismissed 3 hours early seven times throughout the school year and are encouraged to return home via their normal route. However, we understand there may be a childcare hardship because of the early release Mondays for many of our families. To resolve these concerns, student supervision will be available for families who require it. 

The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year at McNair Elementary School:

September 23 (Please complete this form as soon as possible!)
October 28
December 9 (Date Changed from November 25)
February 24
March 17
April 28
May 19

To help plan for our school’s childcare and supervision needs during the early release Mondays, please complete this form as soon as possible: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9 for each of your children who are enrolled at McNair Elementary. The form covers the first two early release Mondays, scheduled for September 23, 2024 and October 28, 2024. If you have multiple children, you will need to submit multiple forms. Staff will confirm the after school supervision plan for each student.

Crosswalk Safety at McNair ES

We want to emphasize the importance of safety on our school grounds and surrounding areas. One crucial aspect of this is using the designated crosswalks to safely cross Thomas Jefferson Drive. We understand that it may be inconvenient to walk to the crosswalk, but not doing so puts our students at risk. By modeling responsible behavior and using the crosswalk with the crossing guard or police officer, we can create a safer environment for everyone. Please discuss the importance of crosswalk safety with your child and encourage them to always use the designated paths. Your support and partnership in this matter is greatly appreciated.

We Are Still Looking For Volunteers For The Family Vision Group! Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

✔️ Parent/Caregiver Checklist: Have You Completed These Important Forms?

🩹 Immunization Requirements

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to McNair Elementary School's front office.

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:

A healthcare provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
A healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations.

📋 Permission Forms

Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter & Important Information

Save the Date: Fall AAP Information Meetings

Full Time Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Screening Overview

Monday, October 21 –6:00-7:00PM in the cafeteria at McNair Upper Elementary School (G3-6 building)

Kaitlin Burg (McNair ES Advanced Academic Resource Teacher) and Mallory Janofsky (McNair Upper ES Advanced Academic Resource Teacher) will host this information session for parents interested in learning about the Full-Time AAP screening process. We will discuss the FCPS screening timeline, the Full-Time AAP referral, the family’s role in the referral process, and the eligible/ineligible notification process. Second through 6th graders at McNair Elementary and McNair Upper Elementary are eligible for Full Time AAP screening. Families of younger students are also welcome to attend if they would like.

McNair Elementary: PreK-2 Mrs. Burg ([email protected])

McNair Upper: Grades 3-6 Mallory Janofsky ([email protected])

Apply Today!

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

PTA Updates September PTA Meeting

Join us this Wednesday, September 18th from 6:30-7:30pm at McNair Upper Elementary School for our General Membership PTA Meeting. We hope to see you there!

Get Involved with the PTA!

For more information or to apply, please reach out to our PTA at [email protected].

Some of the ways that our PTA supports our students are the following:

School Clubs: Some examples include Art Club, Science Club, Debate Club etc., which provide students with enriching extracurricular opportunities.
Competitions: Like the Spelling Bee, Science Olympiad, Odyssey of the Mind, Reflections, ACSL, FLL etc., which inspire and challenge our students.
Community Events: Including Family Fun Nights, Holiday Parties, and Fundraising Activities, which foster a sense of community and engagement that supports our school.

The future of our PTA—and the valuable programs and events we provide—depends on your involvement. Please consider stepping up to ensure that our PTA remains a vibrant and effective part of our school community.

Support PTA: Become a Member or Volunteer

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

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

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

✨ The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, Empowered

The Office of Food and Nutrition Services' updates to lunch menus align with FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal #2 - Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered. The new menu options reflect the many voices and cultures represented around every FCPS lunch table!

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.

As part of the second goal, we want each and every student to feel like they belong and have the support they need to thrive. See how Goal 2 is being put into practice.

🎤 Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!

Fairfax County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions.

The next event is scheduled for Monday, September 23, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Newington Forest Elementary School. Click on the date to register. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.

Westfield High School Dance Team's Fall Clinic Calling all students in Grades 2-6!

Date: Sunday, September 29, 2024

Time: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. (lunch at noon)

Place: Westfield High School (Gym Entrance - Door #11)

Click here to register.

Fall Picture Day at McNair Calling All Smiles!

Fall Picture Day at McNair Elementary School is on October 1, 2024.

National Hispanic Heritage Month

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

New Food Options at FCPS
Parent/Caregiver Checklist
Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R): “Shall vs. May” Focus Groups

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay in Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

September 17: Constitution Day

September 18: PTA Meeting at 6:30pm at McNair Upper ES

September 23: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

September 30: Acknowledgement of SR&R Review Due. Parents/Guardians may access in SIS ParentVUE or return the signature sheet to the main office.

October 1: Picture Day at McNair ES

October 3: All Schools Closed, Rosh Hashanah

October 4: No School for Students, Teacher Workday

October 14: No School for Students, Staff Development Day

October 21: Full Time AAP Screening Parent Meeting in the cafeteria at McNair Upper Elementary School (G3-6 building), 6:00-7:00pm

October 28: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

October 31: Storybook Character Day at McNair ES

October 31: 2 Hour Early Release, End of First Quarter

November 1: All Schools & Offices Closed, Diwali

November 4: No School For Students, School Planning Day

November 5: No School For Students, Teacher Workday

November 8: 2nd Grade Veterans Day Performance (More information Coming Soon!)

November 11: All Schools & Offices Closed, Veterans Day

November 18-22: The Scholastic Book Fair at McNair ES

November 20: Family Night at the Book Fair at McNair ES

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES

November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We are looking forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year!

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, September 10, 2024

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)2 months 1 week ago

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of you who participated in our Back-to-School Night event. We hope that you were able to connect with your child's teachers and gain valuable insights into the curriculum and topics that will be covered throughout the 2024-2025 school year. Our teachers are dedicated to fostering a supportive learning environment and are committed to your child's social-emotional learning and academic growth. They also value your input and partnership in helping your child succeed.

At McNair, we believe in the importance of strong family-teacher partnerships. We encourage you to schedule a conference with your child's teacher starting in October to discuss their progress.

Just a Couple of Friendly Reminders:

Mark your calendars! The AAP Elementary School Parent Overview is on Monday, September 16th at 6:00 pm at McNair ES.
Help us plan for Early Release Mondays! Complete the Student Supervision Survey: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9
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.

Thanks again for your continuous partnership and support. Wishing you a wonderful week, Mustangs!

All the best,

Elizabeth Watson, Principal

Brandy O'Bryant, Assistant Principal

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters

🍎 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.

Learn how families can help form good attendance habits.

Early Release Mondays

The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year at McNair Elementary School:

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

We Are Still Looking For Volunteers For The Family Vision Group! Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities

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

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

You can submit questions online regarding the SR&R.

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter & Important Information

Save the Date: Fall AAP Information Meetings

Advanced Academics Program Elementary Services Parent Overview

Monday, September 16th –6:00-7:00PM in the cafeteria at McNair Elementary (PreK-2 building)

You are invited to join for an information session with Kaitlin Burg (McNair ES Advanced Academic Resource Teacher) and Mallory Janofsky (McNair Upper ES Advanced Academic Resource Teacher). We will provide an overview of Advanced Academics in FCPS and explain the AAP levels of service. This information will not be focused on Full Time AAP screening. That content will be discussed at a separate meeting in October (see below)

Full Time AAP Screening Overview

Monday, October 21 –6:00-7:00PM in the cafeteria at McNair Upper Elementary School (G3-6 building)

McNair Elementary: PreK-2 Mrs. Burg ([email protected])

McNair Upper: Grades 3-6 Mallory Janofsky ([email protected])

🩹 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.

Apply Today!

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

PTA Updates Get Involved with the PTA!

As we are so appreciative of our past Board Members, we are excited to announce that we have a new President, Lorelei Cheung, and VP of Communications, Sayanti Dasgupta. We are appreciative of their dedication to our school community and look forward to our journey together this school year.

While we celebrate these new additions, there are still several key positions open that are crucial for our PTA's success. We encourage you to get involved and consider taking on one of the following roles:

VP of Outreach and Fundraising
VP of Events and Programs
Financial secretary

For more information or to apply, please reach out to our PTA at [email protected].

Some of the ways that our PTA supports our students are the following:

School Clubs: Some examples include Art Club, Science Club, Debate Club etc., which provide students with enriching extracurricular opportunities.
Competitions: Like the Spelling Bee, Science Olympiad, Odyssey of the Mind, Reflections, ACSL, FLL etc., which inspire and challenge our students.
Community Events: Including Family Fun Nights, Holiday Parties, and Fundraising Activities, which foster a sense of community and engagement that supports our school.

Support PTA: Become a Member or Volunteer

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

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

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

The first goal in the strategic plan focuses on each and every student having a strong start in FCPS. Whether they're joining us in preschool or in high school, we want our students to be set up for success. See how Goal 1 is being put into practice.

Political Campaigns

As a community, we have had some questions around election campaigns. Although campaign activity is prohibited on school grounds during the school day, individuals are generally permitted outside of schools during off-hours, and when schools are open for events. This includes individuals who are handing out political leaflets, as long as they are not creating a disturbance, or a risk to health or safety. Additionally, Fairfax County Public Schools does not endorse candidates or political parties. If you have any questions, please contact Principal Watson at [email protected].

🎤 Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid

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

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

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

September 11 National Day of Service

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

All FCPS students are encouraged to participate in service learning as it supports Portrait of a Graduate (POG) attributes and social and emotional learning (SEL) skills. Middle and high school students can learn more about service learning by logging into their Naviance account.

Westfield High School Dance Team's Fall Clinic Calling all students in Grades 2-6!

Date: Sunday, September 29, 2024

Time: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. (lunch at noon)

Place: Westfield High School (Gym Entrance - Door #11)

Click here to register.

Fall Picture Day at McNair Calling All Smiles!

Fall Picture Day at McNair Elementary School is on October 1, 2024.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

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

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay in Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

September 11: Patriot Day, The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance

September 16: Advanced Academics Program Elementary Services Parent Overview in the cafeteria at McNair Elementary (PreK-2 building),6:00-7:00pm

September 23: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

September 26: Parent Meeting & Tea with Principal Watson & Reading Specialist Ms. Carper around Literacy Instruction at McNair ES, Session 1: 9:15am & Session 2: 2:30 PM

September 30: Acknowledgement of SR&R Review Due. Parents/Guardians may access in SIS ParentVUE or return the signature sheet to the main office.

October 1: Picture Day at McNair ES

October 3: All Schools Closed, Rosh Hashanah

October 4: No School for Students, Teacher Workday

October 14: No School for Students, Staff Development Day

October 21: Full Time AAP Screening Parent Meeting in the cafeteria at McNair Upper Elementary School (G3-6 building), 6:00-7:00pm

October 28: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

October 31: Storybook Character Day at McNair ES

October 31: 2 Hour Early Release, End of First Quarter

November 1: All Schools & Offices Closed, Diwali

November 4: No School For Students, School Planning Day

November 5: No School For Students, Teacher Workday

November 8: 2nd Grade Veterans Day Performance (More information Coming Soon!)

November 11: All Schools & Offices Closed, Veterans Day

November 18-22: The Scholastic Book Fair at McNair ES

November 20: Family Night at the Book Fair at McNair ES

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES

November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We are looking forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year!

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, Back To School Night is Tonight!

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)2 months 2 weeks ago

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

Tonight Is Back To School Night at McNair Elementary School!

This year’s annual Back to School Night will be held this evening on Thursday, September 5th. We will offer two sessions.

Session #1: 5:00-5:45 pm
Session #2: 5:45-6:30 pm

At Back to School Night, classroom teachers will share information with parents/guardians about grade level curriculum your child will be learning about this school year and specific grade level events such as field trips your child may attend this upcoming school year. You will also hear about the classroom practices and expectations your child’s teacher will employ this school year to support them.

This is a great opportunity to begin establishing your partnership with your child’s classroom teacher(s) to support their success this school year. It is important that parents/guardians plan to attend one of our session offerings.

Early Release Mondays

This is a friendly reminder that the Early Release Mondays planned throughout the school year for elementary schools are essential to allow educators time for planning and professional development. Students will be dismissed 3 hours early seven times throughout the school year and are encouraged to return home via their normal route. However, we understand there may be a childcare hardship because of the early release Mondays for many of our families. To resolve these concerns, student supervision will be available for families who require it. 

The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year at McNair Elementary School:

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

Family Vision Group Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

Understanding the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)
School Safety Reminders
Community Conversations with Dr. Reid

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay in Touch, McNair! 📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

September 5: Back-To-School Night at McNair ES, 5:00pm-6:30pm

September 11: Patriot Day, The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance

September 16: Advanced Academics Program Elementary Services Parent Overview in the cafeteria at McNair Elementary (PreK-2 building),6:00-7:00pm

September 23: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

September 30: Acknowledgement of SR&R Review Due. Parents/Guardians may access in SIS ParentVUE or return the signature sheet to the main office.

October 3: All Schools Closed, Rosh Hashanah

October 4: No School for Students, Teacher Workday

October 14: No School for Students, Staff Development Day

October 21: Full Time AAP Screening Parent Meeting in the cafeteria at McNair Upper Elementary School (G3-6 building), 6:00-7:00pm

October 28: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

October 31: 2 Hour Early Release, End of First Quarter

November 1: All Schools & Offices Closed, Diwali

November 4: No School For Students, School Planning Day

November 5: No School For Students, Teacher Workday

November 11: All Schools & Offices Closed, Veterans Day

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES

November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We are looking forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year!

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, Back To School Night is Tomorrow!

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)2 months 2 weeks ago

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

Tomorrow Is Back To School Night at McNair Elementary School!

This year’s annual Back to School Night will be held tomorrow evening on Thursday, September 5th. We will offer two sessions.

Session #1: 5:00-5:45 pm
Session #2: 5:45-6:30 pm

Early Release Mondays

This is a friendly reminder that the Early Release Mondays planned throughout the school year for elementary schools are essential to allow educators time for planning and professional development. Students will be dismissed 3 hours early seven times throughout the school year and are encouraged to return home via their normal route. However, we understand there may be a childcare hardship because of the early release Mondays for many of our families. To resolve these concerns, student supervision will be available for families who require it. 

The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year at McNair Elementary School:

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

Family Vision Group Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

Understanding the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)
School Safety Reminders
Community Conversations with Dr. Reid

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay in Touch, McNair! 📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

September 5: Back-To-School Night at McNair ES, 5:00pm-6:30pm

September 11: Patriot Day, The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance

September 16: Advanced Academics Program Elementary Services Parent Overview in the cafeteria at McNair Elementary (PreK-2 building),6:00-7:00pm

September 23: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

September 30: Acknowledgement of SR&R Review Due. Parents/Guardians may access in SIS ParentVUE or return the signature sheet to the main office.

October 3: All Schools Closed, Rosh Hashanah

October 4: No School for Students, Teacher Workday

October 14: No School for Students, Staff Development Day

October 21: Full Time AAP Screening Parent Meeting in the cafeteria at McNair Upper Elementary School (G3-6 building), 6:00-7:00pm

October 28: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

October 31: 2 Hour Early Release, End of First Quarter

November 1: All Schools & Offices Closed, Diwali

November 4: No School For Students, School Planning Day

November 5: No School For Students, Teacher Workday

November 11: All Schools & Offices Closed, Veterans Day

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES

November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We are looking forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year!

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, September 3, 2024

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)2 months 2 weeks ago

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

Warm temperatures greeted us this week and our Mustangs continued to persevere! It's always heartwarming to see students excited about learning and building relationships with their peers.

September is a very busy month ahead so please be sure to mark your calendars! We are looking forward to connecting with all of you at our upcoming events. Just to name a few, we have Back-To-School Night this Thursday, September 5th, along with our Advanced Academics Programming Overview on Monday, September 16th. Please stay tuned as there is more to come!

Additionally, in order to ensure the safety of our community, for families that choose to drive their student(s) to school, please utilize the kiss-and-ride loops at both McNair campuses during arrival and dismissal for students in grades K-2. Families of our preschool students should use street parking. Please avoid parking at the Townes of Copper Mill during these times.

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership. Together, all things are possible. We hope that you have a wonderful week, Mustangs!

All the best,

Elizabeth Watson, Principal

Brandy O'Bryant, Assistant Principal

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters 🙋 Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

Early Release Mondays

This is a friendly reminder that the Early Release Mondays planned throughout the school year for elementary schools are essential to allow educators time for planning and professional development. Students will be dismissed 3 hours early seven times throughout the school year and are encouraged to return home via their normal route. However, we understand there may be a childcare hardship because of the early release Mondays for many of our families. To resolve these concerns, student supervision will be available for families who require it. 

The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year at McNair Elementary School:

September 23
October 28
November 25
February 24
March 17
April 28
May 19

Family Vision Group Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

Back to School Night

This year’s annual Back to School Night will be held on the evening of Thursday, September 5th. We will offer two sessions.

Session #1: 5:00-5:45 pm
Session #2: 5:45-6:30 pm

2024 Student Rights and Responsibilities

You can submit questions online regarding the SR&R.

Cell Phones Off, Learning On

Thank you for helping to support the FCPS cell phone policy by waiting to call or text your child about non-urgent matters until the school day is over. In case of an emergency, it is always best to contact the school’s front office to reach your child during class time.

Visit the FCPS Cell Phone Policy webpage to read more about usage policies by grade level and to share your feedback on the current cell phone policy.

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter & Important Information

Save the Date: Fall AAP Information Meetings

Advanced Academics Program Elementary Services Parent Overview

Monday, September 16th –6:00-7:00PM in the cafeteria at McNair Elementary (PreK-2 building)

Full Time AAP Screening Overview

Monday, October 21 –6:00-7:00PM in the cafeteria at McNair Upper Elementary School (G3-6 building)

McNair Elementary: PreK-2 Mrs. Burg ([email protected])

McNair Upper: Grades 3-6 Mallory Janofsky ([email protected])

☎️Family Information Phone Lines

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. View the list of phone numbers.

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

PTA Updates Get Involved with the PTA!

VP of Outreach and Fundraising
VP of Events and Programs
Financial secretary

For more information or to apply, please reach out to our PTA at [email protected].

Some of the ways that our PTA supports our students are the following:

School Clubs: Some examples include Art Club, Science Club, Debate Club etc., which provide students with enriching extracurricular opportunities.
Competitions: Like the Spelling Bee, Science Olympiad, Odyssey of the Mind, Reflections, ACSL, FLL etc., which inspire and challenge our students.
Community Events: Including Family Fun Nights, Holiday Parties, and Fundraising Activities, which foster a sense of community and engagement that supports our school.

Support PTA: Become a Member or Volunteer

✨ 2023-30 Strategic Plan: Foundation of Four Pillars

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

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

Visit our Strategic Plan webpage for more information.

Safety Drills Safety Drills During the School Year

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

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

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

⚠️ Know Our Security Terms

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

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

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

Free Workshops for Families

Parents and caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Learn more about the Family Resource Center (FRC).

In September, the FRC will host webinars for families on supporting siblings of children with disabilities, helping students organize their school work, working with children who like to push boundaries, and teen development and well-being. Sign up for the FRC newsletter for their latest offerings or visit their webinar website.

Transportation Patience & Safety

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

If your student’s bus is delayed, you may access the Bus Delay Notification System or use the Here Comes the Bus mobile app to receive the delayed bus report. Email messages will be sent to announce significant bus delays. Please contact the Transportation Office at 703-249-7000 with any additional questions. For concerns after 5:30 p.m., contact Safety and Security at 571-423-2000.

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

Update Your Child’s Immunizations and Records

Please check with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up-to-date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school.

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

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

Find more information on immunizations on the FCPS website.

🎤 Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid

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

Solve the Puzzle Before It’s Gone!

Fairfax County's Puzzle Hunt will end on Sunday, September 15. Families have been solving puzzles and finding clues all summer in this unique community event that takes solvers on a journey to the wonderful parks in Fairfax County. There is still time to join before it ends!

Puzzles are filled with creative thinking, logic, and wordplay. They are designed to be completed with friends and family and are challenging and accessible for all skill levels. Solve the puzzles, then find clues at the parks for a final meta-puzzle. Visit our wonderful local parks with friends and family.

Congratulations on Your Retirement, Ms. Shafqat!

Please join us in celebrating the retirement of Ms. Nausheen Shafqat, a dedicated and invaluable member of our school community. Her unwavering commitment to our students and staff has made a profound impact on our school. Ms. Shafqat has been a constant source of support, always ready to lend a helping hand and offer words of encouragement. Her dedication to helping students reach their full potential has been instrumental in the success of our students.

We wish our Instructional Assistant, Ms. Shafqat all the best in her retirement. She will be missed, and we are grateful for her many years of service to our McNair community.

September 11 National Day of Service

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

Understanding the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)
School Safety Reminders
Community Conversations with Dr. Reid

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay in Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

September 5: Back-To-School Night at McNair ES, 5:00pm-6:30pm

September 11: Patriot Day, The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance

September 16: Advanced Academics Program Elementary Services Parent Overview in the cafeteria at McNair Elementary (PreK-2 building),6:00-7:00pm

September 23: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

September 30: Acknowledgement of SR&R Review Due. Parents/Guardians may access in SIS ParentVUE or return the signature sheet to the main office.

October 3: All Schools Closed, Rosh Hashanah

October 4: No School for Students, Teacher Workday

October 14: No School for Students, Staff Development Day

October 21: Full Time AAP Screening Parent Meeting in the cafeteria at McNair Upper Elementary School (G3-6 building), 6:00-7:00pm

October 28: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

October 31: 2 Hour Early Release, End of First Quarter

November 1: All Schools & Offices Closed, Diwali

November 4: No School For Students, School Planning Day

November 5: No School For Students, Teacher Workday

November 11: All Schools & Offices Closed, Veterans Day

November 22: Thanksgiving Luncheon for Grades K-2 at McNair ES

November 27-29: All Schools & Offices Closed, Thanksgiving Break

December 23-January 3: No School For Students, Winter Break

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We are looking forward to galloping together with you throughout the 2024-2025 school year!

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter, August 27, 2024

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)2 months 3 weeks ago

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

What an amazing first week of school, Mustangs! Together we learned, we laughed, we read, and we made new friends. There has been an incredible amount of JOY that has filled our building this week as students have begun to settle into the 2024-2025 school year. We have seen warm and welcoming classroom communities growing and students excited to engage in learning opportunities around reading, writing, and math routines!

We have started strong because of our teachers and staffs' preparations, their collaboration, and responsiveness to all of our students' and families' needs. As we celebrate the success of our first week together, you might consider sending your child's teacher a note or a Talking Points message letting them know your appreciation.

In addition, this school year we are continuing to work on ensuring all of our Mustangs are in their classrooms and ready to learn at 8:45am. We appreciate your partnership and the many steps you take to ensure your child attends school regularly and on time. Your support and partnership in your child's education is invaluable.

Wishing you all a wonderful week ahead. It is going to be a FANTASTIC school year learning and growing together! Have a great day, Mustangs!

All the best,

Elizabeth Watson, Principal

Brandy O'Bryant, Assistant Principal

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters 💪 Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

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

Early Release Mondays

This is a friendly reminder that the Early Release Mondays planned throughout the school year for elementary schools are essential to allow educators time for planning and professional development. Students will be dismissed 3 hours early seven times throughout the school year and are encouraged to return home via their normal route. However, we understand there may be a childcare hardship because of the early release Mondays for many of our families. To resolve these concerns, student supervision will be available for families who require it. 

The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year at McNair Elementary School:

September 23
October 28
November 25
February 24
March 17
April 28
May 19

Family Vision Group Let's Build a Brighter Tomorrow Together

Key responsibilities of the FCPS Family Connection Group Include:

Regularly attend FCPS Family Vision Group meetings.
Support the superintendent's outreach efforts to engage families and community members.
Actively participate in the exchange of information and perspectives.
Serve as ambassadors to your school community by being an additional bridge to sharing information between families and the superintendent.
Commit to pursuing the interest of each and every student in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Thank you so much in advance for your support of this new division-wide opportunity for families!

Back to School Night

This year’s annual Back to School Night will be held on the evening of Thursday, September 5th. We will offer two sessions.

Session #1: 5:00-5:45 pm
Session #2: 5:45-6:30 pm

SIS ParentVUE Everything You Can Do Through SIS ParentVUE

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

Update Contact Information

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

Parents/caregivers who do not have a SIS ParentVUE account should print and complete the Emergency Care Information Form (PDF) and submit it to our front office

Complete Permission Forms

Families can now easily give permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. This online tool can be accessed using your SIS ParentVUE account. You can easily opt your child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. You may also change how your student’s information is managed.

Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. Watch this video to see how to use the tool.

Submit Absences

Parents/caregivers can submit up to two full-day absences through SIS ParentVUE. Log in and click “Report Absence.” Absences longer than two days, partial day absences, and changes of transportation should still be reported to our front office.

Don’t Have a SIS ParentVUE Account Yet?

Contact our front office for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage.

☎️Family Information Phone Lines

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

PTA Updates Get Involved with the PTA!

Additionally, we are in need of board members to keep the PTA operational. Without enough volunteers to fill key positions on the PTA board, we will be unable to have this amazing association that supports our students and school community. This would result in the loss of valuable programs and activities, including:

School Clubs: Some examples include Art Club, Science Club, Debate Club etc., which provide students with enriching extracurricular opportunities.
Competitions: Like the Spelling Bee, Science Olympiad, Odyssey of the Mind, Reflections, ACSL, FLL etc., which inspire and challenge our students.
Community Events: Including Family Fun Nights, Holiday Parties, and Fundraising Activities, which foster a sense of community and engagement that supports our school.

We are reaching out to all families for their support. If you have the time and to contribute, we encourage you to consider joining the PTA board. We are looking for dedicated volunteers for the following key positions:

President: Leads the PTA and oversees all activities.
Vice President: Assists the President and manages committees.
Secretary: Manages communications and records meeting minutes.

If you are interested in taking on a board position or would like more information about what’s involved, please contact us at [email protected] as soon as possible. We are eager to discuss how you can get involved and help us continue to support our school.

Support PTA: Become a Member or Volunteer

Please contact Miranda Butzlaff, our PTA President at [email protected] if you want to know more information about our PTA and opportunities to get involved within our school community!

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

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

Free Workshops for Families

Transportation Patience & Safety

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

🔍 Lightspeed Parent Report on Child’s Device Activity

FCPS has tools to help parents know more about their child’s activity on any FCPS device. These tools are provided at no cost to families by Lightspeed, the school division’s internet content filtering service.

Parents may sign up for a weekly Parent Report, which will provide a list of the top sites their child visited. The report also offers parents the ability to sign up for free access to the Internet Use Parent Portal. Through the portal, parents may pause their child’s access to the internet on their FCPS device during non-school hours.

Learn more about Lightspeed Parent Reports.

Update Your Child’s Immunizations and Records

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

Find more information on immunizations on the FCPS website.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics and others:

Everything You Can Do Through SIS ParentVUE
Updating Immunizations and Records
Transportation Patience and Safety
Superintendent Reid Welcomes Everyone Back to School

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Labor Day

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

Overdose Awareness and Understanding the Dangers of Opioids

In Northern Virginia, consistent with national and state trends, the opioid epidemic continues to impact communities, including young adults and school-age children. Opioids are a class of drugs used to treat pain and can include prescription medication and illegal drugs.

Tragically, their misuse can lead to devastating outcomes. Fentanyl is an extremely fatal and especially powerful opioid, even in small doses. Most fatal overdoses in Fairfax County in recent years have involved fentanyl.

August 31 is Overdose Awareness Day. There are three things you can do now to support student wellness and increase understanding of the dangers of opioids and fentanyl:

Talk with children and loved ones in your life about the dangers of drug use, especially opioids. For more information about substance use among youth, tips on how to recognize and prevent substance abuse, and available support services, please watch this webinar.
Safely store and dispose of medications, including prescription pain medications, to prevent drug misuse.
Sign up for a Virtual REVIVE! training class to learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of opioid overdose and administer naloxone nasal spray to reverse an opioid overdose.

Learn more about the dangers of opioids and available resources on our website. Visit the Student Safety and Wellness webpage for more information on topics related to student well-being.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay in Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

August 30 & September 2: School Closed for Labor Day Weekend

August 31: Overdose Awareness Day

September 5: Back-To-School Night at McNair ES, 5:00pm-6:30pm

September 23: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We are looking forward to galloping together with you into the 2024-2025 school year!

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter-First Day of School is Tomorrow!

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)3 months ago

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

First Day of School is Tomorrow! Welcome Back Home, Mustangs!

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

Tomorrow is the first day of school for our Kindergarten, First, and Second grade students as well as our students accessing the Preschool Autism Classroom (PAC) program. (Students accessing our Pre-K and ECCB programs will join us for their first day of school on Monday, August 26th.) We are so excited to welcome our Mustangs back into the building to kickoff the 2024-2025 school year together!

Please see below for a couple of friendly reminders:

School Hours: 8:45am-3:30 pm

We will open our doors to welcome students with our first bell ringing daily at 8:35 am to signal a ten-minute notice for students to enter the school building and make their way to their classroom. Our students should be in their classroom seats no later than 8:45 am. Our day begins with connecting with each other and building relationships among staff and students for productive learning! Please partner together with us to have your child/children at school and in class on time.

First Day of School

We will be permitting families to walk their child to the classroom on the first day of school. Many of our staff each morning throughout the entire school year will greet our students at arrival and will be available to assist students to class.

Buses & Delays

Please be patient and show grace to all of our FCPS employees as we want to ensure a successful first day, week, and year for all of our students and families. If a student’s bus is delayed, parents may access the Bus Delay Notification System or use the Here Comes the Bus mobile app to receive the delayed bus report. Email messages will be sent to announce significant bus delays. Contact the Transportation Office at 703-249-7000 with any additional questions. For any concerns after 5:30 p.m., contact Safety and Security at 571-423-2000. To make sure you receive email messages about bus delays, update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE.

Arrival and Dismissal

Please follow staff directions during arrival and dismissal times to ensure we are keeping all of our students safe.

First Day Fairfax!

We encourage parents, students, and staff members to share their favorite pictures or videos from the first day of school on social media using the hashtag #FirstDayFairfax. Some of the photos taken will be displayed on the FCPS Facebook and Instagram pages.

Let the countdown begin! We are so eager and excited to kickoff this incredible school year together! See you tomorrow, Mustangs!

All the best,

Elizabeth Watson, Principal

Brandy O'Bryant, Assistant Principal

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

Check-In With Your Child

A great way to have richer conversations with your child is to check-in with him/her by asking some of the questions listed below. This will support you learning a little bit more about your child's day while they are at school.

What made you smile today?
Can you tell me about an act of kindness you did or saw?
What is something creative you did today?
Who did you sit with at lunch today?
Tell me something you learned today.
What did you eat first at lunch?
If you could change one thing about the day, what would it be?
What made your teacher(s) smile today?
What is your favorite thing to do at recess?
What is the best thing that happened today?
Did you help anyone today?
What was your thorn, and what was your rose today?
What are you looking forward to for tomorrow?
Teach me something you learned.
What kinds of things did you see people eating for snack?
Did you learn any new words today?

Absences Add Up-Plan Ahead

Please click below to view a welcome message from Ms. Meren.

DID YOU KNOW?

Students who attend 90% or more of the school year are more likely to graduate from high school on time.
Starting in kindergarten, too many absences can cause children to fall behind in school.
Missing 10 percent (or about 2 days per month) can make it harder to learn to read.
Being late to school may lead to poor attendance.
Students can still fall behind if they miss just a day every few weeks.
Absences can affect the whole classroom if the teacher has to slow down learning to help children catch up.
Absences can be a sign that a student is losing interest in school, struggling with school work, dealing with peer conflicts or facing some other potentially serious difficulty, and help is available.

WHAT YOU CAN DO?

Set a regular bedtime and morning routine.
Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before.
Find out what day school starts and make sure your child has the required shots.
Introduce your child to her teachers and classmates before school starts to help her transition.
Don’t let your child stay home unless she is truly sick. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home.
If your child seems anxious about going to school, talk to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make her feel comfortable and excited about learning.
Develop back-up plans for getting to school if something comes up. Call on a family member, a neighbor, or another parent.
Avoid medical appointments and extended trips when school is in session.

Bell Schedule for All Programs

The first day of school is Monday, August 19, 2024 and every minute counts! We will open our doors to welcome students with our first bell ringing daily at 8:35 am to signal a ten-minute notice for students to enter the school building and make their way to their classroom. Our students should be in their classroom seats no later than 8:45 am. Our day begins with connecting with each other and building relationships among staff and students for productive learning! Please partner together with us to have your child/children at school and in class on time.

The bell schedule is as follows:

School Hours at McNair

Office Hours: 8:00 AM-4:00 PM

School Hours for Students: 8:45 AM-3:30 PM

Doors Open with Welcome Bell: 8:35 AM

Final Bell Rings: 8:45 AM

Keeping Your Child Safe

All exterior doors are locked during school hours. To enter the building, go to Door #1, push the doorbell, and the front office will remotely unlock the door. Upon entering, please report to the office where you will be requested to sign-in and show identification. To maintain the momentum of instruction, forgotten lunches and materials will be delivered by office staff, or students will be called down to the office to get their forgotten items.

For any change in a child’s typical transportation arrangements, send a note to the teacher indicating the date of the change, the duration of the change, and the reason for the change. Students may not ride a non-designated school bus home with a friend as buses are filled to capacity. For safety, we also ask that students get off at their designated stop only.

If picking up a student before the end of school, provide notice to the teacher and school office whenever possible to avoid confusion for your child. If a student must leave unexpectedly, alert the office at least one hour ahead of time.

During arrival and dismissal, please follow the established rules and travel routes for the safety of all. For everyone’s safety, we ask that parents follow the procedures for arrival and dismissal. This will allow you to get your Mustang to school as quickly and as efficiently as possible. Modeling safe procedures is critical and teaches our young students to stay safe when adults are not with them.

Parents who plan to use Kiss & Ride must register their child here. Please remember, class assignments will be distributed on Wednesday, August 14 at 4 p.m. Make sure you review the McNair Arrival and Dismissal Procedures and map prior to the first day of school!

As a final reminder, taking the bus is a very safe way to travel to and from school. If you plan to have your child take the bus during the school year, put them on the bus the first day of school. It will help establish the school year routine, and students will be learning the rules and expectations along with peers from day one!

Support Your Child’s Success in SIS ParentVUE

Signing up for a SIS ParentVUE account helps you to support your child’s academic success. Caregivers can view important information in ParentVUE such as attendance, grades, progress reports, and assessment scores.

Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. A SIS ParentVUE app is available for Apple and Android devices.

Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video explains the steps. Find out more. To create a new account, please contact our school registrar, Afkham Hosseini at [email protected] for an activation letter.

If you already have an account, be sure your contact information is up-to-date. Parents/guardians can update their phone numbers or email addresses in the Parent/Guardian section. View more information.

Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

PTA Updates Get Involved with the PTA!

School Clubs: Some examples include Art Club, Science Club, Debate Club etc., which provide students with enriching extracurricular opportunities.
Competitions: Like the Spelling Bee, Science Olympiad, Odyssey of the Mind, Reflections, ACSL, FLL etc., which inspire and challenge our students.
Community Events: Including Family Fun Nights, Holiday Parties, and Fundraising Activities, which foster a sense of community and engagement that supports our school.

President: Leads the PTA and oversees all activities.
Vice President: Assists the President and manages committees.
Secretary: Manages communications and records meeting minutes.

Support PTA: Become a Member or Volunteer

Please contact Miranda Butzlaff, our PTA President at [email protected] if you want to know more information about our PTA and opportunities to get involved within our school community!

🔖 Bookmark the School Year Calendar

Be sure to bookmark the FCPS school year calendar to keep track of school holidays, breaks, and observances:

Days marked with a blue “H” are student holidays. Schools are closed on these days.
Days marked with an orange “O” are religious and cultural observance days (or evenings if only half marked). There is school on these days, but certain events that cannot be made up may not be scheduled on these days.
Days marked in pink are holidays for students, but working days for teachers and staff.

Note: Some holidays and observances, such as Eid al-Fitr, may shift and the calendar may be adjusted.

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:

Prepare for the First Day of School
FCPS.edu Has a New Look
Free Resources and Workshops for Families

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay in Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2024-2025 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

August 19: First Day of School for Students in Grades K-12

August 19: First Day of School for Students Accessing the Preschool Autism Classroom (PAC) Program

August 26: First Day of School for Students Accessing the Pre-K Head Start Program and for students accessing the ECCB Program

August 30 & September 2: All FCPS Schools are Closed for Labor Day Weekend

September 5: Back-To-School Night at McNair ES, 5:00pm-6:30pm

September 23: 3 Hours Early Release Mondays Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We are looking forward to galloping together with you into the 2024-2025 school year!

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter-Welcome Back Home, Mustangs!

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)3 months ago

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

First Day of School is on Monday! Welcome Back Home, Mustangs!

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

Thank you to all of our students and families that were able to join us at our Open House yesterday! We hope that you had a wonderful time meeting our amazing teachers and staff. Monday is the first day of school for our Kindergarten, First, and Second grade students as well as our students accessing the Preschool Autism Classroom (PAC) program. (Students accessing our Pre-K and ECCB programs will join us for their first day of school on Monday, August 26th.) We are so excited to welcome our Mustangs back into the building to kickoff the 2024-2025 school year together! Please see below for a couple of friendly reminders:

School Hours: 8:45am-3:30 pm

We will open our doors to welcome students with our first bell ringing daily at 8:35 am to signal a ten-minute notice for students to enter the school building and make their way to their classroom. Our students should be in their classroom seats no later than 8:45 am. Our day begins with connecting with each other and building relationships among staff and students for productive learning! Please partner together with us to have your child/children at school and in class on time.

First Day of School

We will be permitting families to walk their child to the classroom on the first day of school. Many of our staff each morning throughout the entire school year will greet our students at arrival and will be available to assist students to class.

Buses & Delays

Please be patient and show grace to all of our FCPS employees as we want to ensure a successful first day, week, and year for all of our students and families. If a student’s bus is delayed, parents may access the Bus Delay Notification System or use the Here Comes the Bus mobile app to receive the delayed bus report. Email messages will be sent to announce significant bus delays. Contact the Transportation Office at 703-249-7000 with any additional questions. For any concerns after 5:30 p.m., contact Safety and Security at 571-423-2000. To make sure you receive email messages about bus delays, update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE.

Arrival and Dismissal

Please follow staff directions during arrival and dismissal times to ensure we are keeping all of our students safe.

First Day Fairfax!

We encourage parents, students, and staff members to share their favorite pictures or videos from the first day of school on social media using the hashtag #FirstDayFairfax. Some of the photos taken will be displayed on the FCPS Facebook and Instagram pages.

We are so eager and EXCITED to kickoff an amazing school year together with our Mustang Family! Together, we are looking forward to your partnership as we continue to support all of our Mustangs to thrive and meet their fullest potential this year and beyond! See you on Monday, Mustangs!

All the best,

Elizabeth Watson, Principal

Brandy O'Bryant, Assistant Principal

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vYvcsGZwaU

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters 💪 Student Attendance Matters!

Student attendance at school is important all year long. Attendance has an effect on student performance and on school accreditation. See how to:

Check your child’s attendance record.
Help your student stay engaged at school.
Report future absences.
Understand the FCPS school calendar.

Learn more about attendance resources.

Ms. Meren, School Board Member, Welcomes Everyone Back to School!

Please click below to view a welcome message from Ms. Meren.

What Is a School Board?

The Fairfax County School Board is responsible for running the public schools in Fairfax County. Twelve school board members are elected by county voters every four years. A student representative serves on the board as a non-voting member. They are chosen by their peers each year. The School Board makes general rules and sets guidelines to ensure Fairfax County Public Schools runs properly. They follow the laws of Virginia and the rules set by the Virginia Board of Education.

Learning about your local school board is important. Understanding their policies and initiatives can help you advocate for positive changes and ensure that the educational needs of all students are met. There are many ways to get involved.

Learn more about the school board, how to participate in their meetings, and where to watch school board meetings.

School Hours

The bell schedule is as follows:

School Hours at McNair

Office Hours: 8:00 AM-4:00 PM

School Hours for Students: 8:45 AM-3:30 PM

Doors Open with Welcome Bell: 8:35 AM

Final Bell Rings: 8:45 AM

Keeping Your Child Safe

Visitor Registration

Parents/guardians new to McNair will need to register at their first visit. After that you will be able to quickly sign in and get a visitor badge if you have an ID with you. Office staff will be available to help parents/guardians use the system. Having a driver’s license handy makes the registration process faster, but a driver’s license is not required.

Communicating with McNair ES

On the first day of school, all students will receive a Take Home Folder with critical back to school information. We ask that parents complete the forms if they haven’t done so electronically and return those forms in the same folder to the classroom teacher.

McNair uses News You Choose to distribute the parent newsletter, The Mustang News, weekly. News You Choose is an electronic communication platform that allows community members the ability to select what information they want to receive and how often from individual schools, the School Board office and members, departments, programs, PTA/PTO, and booster organizations. Subscribers can change their settings or unsubscribe at any time.

Please make sure we have your current email so that we can send you updates.

eNotify

Parents of Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students are automatically enrolled to receive eNotify Communications. FCPS central offices and schools use this system to communicate emergency, delayed opening and school closing information, attendance, and other essential communications. Contact information from the student information system are uploaded to eNotify. It is important that parents keep their child’s emergency contact information up-to-date. To update, email Afkham Hosseini at [email protected], fill out an emergency care card, or update through your SIS ParentVUE account.

SIS ParentVUE

To be sure you receive important information from your schools, update your phone numbers and/or email addresses in the Parent/Guardian section of SIS ParentVUE. Parents can access information about their child’s attendance, class performance, and manage emergency communication and FCPS forms via a SIS ParentVUE account. Click here for more information. If you need an activation code, please call the school at 703-793-4800.

Schoology /SKOO-luh-jee/

Our Learning Management System is Schoology. In Schoology, parents will find teacher schedules, information about the curriculum, and other important information. It’s also a great platform for teachers to communicate with families. Parents will receive information about accessing classroom sites from their student's teacher. To learn more, parents can click here.

Communicating with the Teacher

Parents may contact the classroom teacher by leaving a message with the office staff or by emailing the staff member directly. Teachers will also often communicate via Talking Points. It is best to always start with the classroom teacher if you have a question or a concern, as they are often the person with the most knowledge regarding your child. Staff email addresses can be found on the McNair Elementary School's websites directory.

School Meals

During school hours, McNair Elementary offers both breakfast and lunch for purchase. Both breakfast and lunch begin on the first day of school.

Preparing for and Paying for Meals at School

Parents/caregivers need to provide their students with money to purchase meals at school, send them with a packed lunch, or apply (and be approved) for free and reduced-price meals benefits. School breakfast for students costs $1.75. Lunch is $3.25 for elementary students and $3.50 for middle, secondary, and high school students.

Free and Reduced-Price Meals

The application for free and reduced-priced meals is now available for the 2024-25 school year. Students who were approved for free and reduced-price lunch last year are eligible for the first 30 days of school this year (or until a new application is processed). Families should re-apply as soon as possible for the 2024-25 school year, so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost.

Paying With MySchoolBucks

The best way to purchase meals (and keep food lines moving!) is to use MySchoolBucks. Set up your student’s MySchoolBucks account today. Our front office staff can help with any questions.

MySchoolBucks accounts can be set up to add money to the account automatically, as needed. Families with multiple children can use the same MySchoolBucks account. Visit FCPS’ Food and Nutrition webpage for more information.

Keeping Your Child Healthy

Your child’s heath needs at school is a priority. School health room services, including the administration of medication and modified first aid, are performed by the health room aide. When we return to school, prescription and most over-the-counter medications at school require strict adult supervision and should not be in the child’s possession. Please let us know if your child has special health needs that may impact learning in school as soon as possible. We will connect you with our Public Health Nurse, Yasamin Asmat, to develop a school plan. A letter regarding school health services will be sent home with your child on the first day of school.

Immunizations and Records 🩹 Update Immunizations and Records

Immunizations are required for all students to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of protecting them from certain diseases and keeping them healthy. Please log in to SIS ParentVUE to see what immunizations your child has recorded.

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up-to-date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia as soon as possible. If your child needs a vaccine, please make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or access other local services.

Remember to request your child’s immunization record and bring that to the school’s front office or submit the record via SIS ParentVUE as soon as possible. Find more information on FCPS’ website.

Early Release Mondays

This is a friendly reminder that the Early Release Mondays planned throughout the school year for elementary schools are essential to allow educators time for planning and professional development. Students will be dismissed 3 hours early seven times throughout the school year and are encouraged to return home via their normal route. However, we understand there may be a childcare hardship because of the early release Mondays for many of our families. To resolve these concerns, student supervision will be available for families who need it.

The following dates are planned for Early Release Mondays throughout the school year at McNair Elementary School:

September 23
October 28
November 25
February 24
March 17
April 28
May 19

To help plan for our school’s childcare needs during the early release Mondays, please complete this form by August 19, 2024: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9 for each of your children who are enrolled at McNair Elementary. The form covers the first two early release Mondays, scheduled for September 23, 2024 and October 28, 2024. If you have multiple children, you will need to submit multiple forms. Staff will confirm the after school supervision plan for each student.

Back to School Night

This year’s annual Back to School Night will be held on the evening of Thursday, September 5th. We will offer two sessions.

Session #1: 5:00-5:45 pm
Session #2: 5:45-6:30 pm

Support Your Child’s Success in SIS ParentVUE

☎️Family Information Phone Lines

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

PTA Updates Get Involved with the PTA!

School Clubs: Some examples include Art Club, Science Club, Debate Club etc., which provide students with enriching extracurricular opportunities.
Competitions: Like the Spelling Bee, Science Olympiad, Odyssey of the Mind, Reflections, ACSL, FLL etc., which inspire and challenge our students.
Community Events: Including Family Fun Nights, Holiday Parties, and Fundraising Activities, which foster a sense of community and engagement that supports our school.

President: Leads the PTA and oversees all activities.
Vice President: Assists the President and manages committees.
Secretary: Manages communications and records meeting minutes.

Support PTA: Become a Member or Volunteer

Please contact Miranda Butzlaff, our PTA President at [email protected] if you want to know more information about our PTA and opportunities to get involved within our school community!

🔖 Bookmark the School Year Calendar

Be sure to bookmark the FCPS school year calendar to keep track of school holidays, breaks, and observances:

Days marked with a blue “H” are student holidays. Schools are closed on these days.
Days marked with an orange “O” are religious and cultural observance days (or evenings if only half marked). There is school on these days, but certain events that cannot be made up may not be scheduled on these days.
Days marked in pink are holidays for students, but working days for teachers and staff.

Note: Some holidays and observances, such as Eid al-Fitr, may shift and the calendar may be adjusted.

FCPS Strategic Plan 2023-2030 📖 Students Reading on Level by the Third Grade

FCPS has continued to improve its approach to reading over the last several years through our Equitable Access to Literacy (EAL) plan. Reading by third grade is also one of the measures of Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence in our 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

By focusing on foundational skills for our young readers and literacy intervention for upper grades, FCPS has made significant progress toward narrowing the achievement gaps in this critical skill. Visit the Strategic Plan webpage for more information

Successfully Completing Algebra 1 by Eighth Grade

Helping students to complete Algebra 1 by eighth grade is part of our FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence.

Passing Algebra 1 earlier allows for students to take more advanced classes like Dual Enrollment courses, Advanced Placement (AP), and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses. These advanced courses help students succeed in college. A recent study from the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) found that completing Algebra 1 by grade eight led to 30% more ninth graders and 16% more 11th graders taking advanced courses.

Free Workshops for Families

FCPS News

In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:

Prepare for the First Day of School
FCPS.edu Has a New Look
Free Resources and Workshops for Families

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay in Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2023-2024 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

August 19: First Day of School for Students in Grades K-12

August 19: First Day of School for Students Accessing the Preschool Autism Classroom (PAC) Program

August 26: First Day of School for Students Accessing the Pre-K Head Start Program and for students accessing the ECCB Program

August 30 & September 2: School Closed for Labor Day Weekend

September 5: Back-To-School Night at McNair ES, 5:00pm-6:30pm

September 23: 3 Hours Early Release Monday Grades K-2- Please complete form: https://forms.gle/bEmijZM4A1NH1Taj9

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We are looking forward to galloping together with you into the 2024-2025 school year!

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter-Welcome Back!

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)3 months ago

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

Welcome Back, McNair Mustangs!

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

It is a pleasure to welcome you to McNair Elementary School for the 2024-2025 school year! We are eager to kickoff this upcoming school year as we have missed all of our Mustangs! As a school community, it is our mission at McNair to ensure that we provide every student with a safe and positive learning environment, high quality instruction, and support all student’s social and emotional development. At McNair, we are dedicated to maintaining a caring culture in which every student and family feels a sense of belonging.

In addition, our goal is to continue to engage and support all families throughout the year by providing opportunities to visit our school campus, engage in daily communications, and participate in specialized information sessions as collaborating partners and advocates for your child’s journey in education and success. We take children’s safety and learning very seriously and keep it as a top priority for any decision making.

Additionally, we are honored to have so many of our fabulous teachers returning to McNair Elementary School this year. It is also exciting to welcome new teachers and staff to our learning community. As you get to know all of our staff, you will see that they have a passion for our work, and talents that benefit our students and school as a whole.

Below you will find important information and instructions for all families. We would greatly appreciate you reading this newsletter carefully or contacting our main office at 703-793-4800 if you need assistance. This information helps ensure that all of our students have a safe and wonderful start to the new school year!

Together, we are looking forward to your partnership as we continue to support all of our Mustangs to thrive and meet their fullest potential. Lifelong Learners Grow Here!

All the best,

Elizabeth Watson, Principal

Brandy O'Bryant, Assistant Principal

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters 💪 Student Attendance Matters!

Student attendance at school is important all year long. Attendance has an effect on student performance and on school accreditation. See how to:

Check your child’s attendance record.
Help your student stay engaged at school.
Report future absences.
Understand the FCPS school calendar.

Learn more about attendance resources.

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

🖍️ It’s Kindergarten Registration Time!

Attending kindergarten provides children with an opportunity to learn and practice the essential social, emotional, problem-solving, and self-regulation skills they will use throughout their lives. Eligible children can be registered today! Please contact our School Registrar, Afkham Hosseini at 703-793-4800 or [email protected] for any questions. Registering today helps us plan so that we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. Please share this information with any family members or neighbors with young children!

Prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms. We are happy to support families with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For more information in other languages, visit FCPS’ Kindergarten Registration webpage.

Resources for Newly Registered Families

Being connected to your school community helps you stay informed and support your child’s success. Take some time to get familiar with the many resources and tools available to FCPS families, including:

School Age Child Care (SACC) – This Fairfax County government program provides a safe and fun environment before and after school for elementary school-age children.
FCPS Communications for Families – FCPS shares news and information to support student learning and promote family involvement.
Family Engagement Resources – FCPS works to connect, strengthen, and support our families, schools, and communities.
Do You Know About Family Liaisons? – Family liaisons serve as a link between families and schools. You may contact [family liaison’s name], our family liaison, at [email and phone number].

There’s an easy to follow five-step process outlined for parents registering their children for kindergarten. Be sure to register your child as soon as possible!

Register Your Children Online

Online registration is available for new and returning (re-enrolling) FCPS families! Apply today to help us plan for the 2024-25 school year.

School Hours

The bell schedule is as follows:

Class Placements

We know that you are eager to learn who your child's teacher is for this school year! Parents/guardians will be notified by text and/or email through our eNotify system on Wednesday, August 14 at 4:00pm. If you do not have an email or phone number on file, please contact the school at 703-793-4800.

Keeping Your Child Safe

Visitor Registration

Communicating with McNair ES

Please make sure we have your current email so that we can send you updates.

eNotify

SIS ParentVUE

Parents can access information about their child’s attendance, class performance, and manage emergency communication and FCPS forms via a SIS ParentVUE account. Click here for more information. If you need an activation code, please call the school at 703-793-4800.

Schoology /SKOO-luh-jee/

Communicating with the Teacher

School Meals

During school hours, McNair Elementary offers both breakfast and lunch for purchase. Both breakfast and lunch begin on the first day of school.

Preparing for and Paying for Meals at School

Free and Reduced-Price Meals

Paying With MySchoolBucks

The best way to purchase meals (and keep food lines moving!) is to use MySchoolBucks. Set up your student’s MySchoolBucks account today. Our front office staff can help with any questions.

School Supply Lists

School supply lists for grades K-2 can be found on our school website or by clicking here. Teachers of students in preschool will communicate with families directly regarding preparation for the school year.

Families needing support to purchase any of these school supplies should contact our counselors, Ms. Ford at [email protected] or Ms. Coe at [email protected].

Keeping Your Child Healthy

Immunizations and Records 🩹 Are Your Child’s Immunizations and Records Up to Date?

Immunizations are required for public school entry and help keep students protected from serious diseases. Many children missed their well check-ups and their recommended childhood vaccinations during recent years because of disruptions from COVID-19. It is critical to catch up to keep children healthy and ready for school.

While COVID-19 vaccinations are not required, many other immunizations are. Check with your students’ healthcare providers now to make sure they are up to date on their immunizations.

Visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of clinics or contact your family’s healthcare provider. Appointments are required for most clinics.

Remember to request documentation of your child’s immunizations to provide to their school. Get more information on immunization requirements and the necessary documentation to share with your child’s school.

Open House

This year’s annual Open House is scheduled for Friday, August 16th from 10:30-12:00 pm. Please visit us at school during this timeframe to meet your child’s teacher(s), meet our specialists, as well as other staff members of the McNair Elementary School community. This is also a great time for you to drop your child’s school supplies off to their classroom. McNair Upper Elementary School's Open House will be happening at the same time so that families are able to go to both campuses during this timeframe. The event will conclude in both buildings at 12:00 pm, so please plan your visit accordingly.

If your child requires medication during the school day, both Ms. Asmat, Public Health Nurse, and Ms. Reyes, School Health Assistant, will be on-site during Open House to accept your child's medication and the necessary medical paperwork.

Back to School Night

This year’s annual Back to School Night will be held on the evening of Thursday, September 5th. We will offer two sessions.

Session #1: 5:00-5:45 pm
Session #2: 5:45-6:30 pm

INOVA Back to School Pediatric Health Fairs

Inova Cares Clinic (ICC) will provide children ages 5 and older with free school entrance physicals and immunizations at summer health fairs for children on Medicaid or who are uninsured. The clinics will take place 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on the following dates:

Saturday, August 17, at ICC for Children - Falls Church

Appointments are required; no walk-ins will be allowed. Call 703-698-2550 for an appointment.

Support Your Child’s Success in SIS ParentVUE

☎️Family Information Phone Lines

Tutor.com Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Through Schoology®, all FCPS students have 24/7 access to no-cost, year-round, on-demand, 1-to-1 tutoring services through Tutor.com.

A new Teacher-Referred Tutoring program feature provides targeted support and extends student learning. Teachers can now refer students for tutoring, with their specific needs already identified. Students can get extra support — on their own schedule — and reinforce their in-class learning.

Caregivers can guide students to access expert tutoring, homework help, and writing support by clicking on the Tutor.com icon in their Schoology portal—anytime, anywhere.

Plus, look for teachers’ tutoring session referrals on the Tutor.com homepage.

Congratulations, Ms. Hagaman!

It is always bittersweet to wish staff farewell. Please join us in wishing our Special Education Department Chair, Mary-Elizabeth Hagaman all the best as she begins a new adventure in FCPS. Ms. Hagaman has been promoted to the role of an Assistant Principal at Forestdale Elementary School. We are incredibly grateful for the many ways that Ms. Hagaman has positively impacted our students, teams, colleagues, families, and community. Ms. Hagaman will begin in her new role starting August 12th.

CONGRATULATIONS Ms. Hagaman! We are so proud of you!!! Forever a Mustang!

Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

PTA Updates Get Involved with the PTA!

School Clubs: Some examples include Art Club, Science Club, Debate Club etc., which provide students with enriching extracurricular opportunities.
Competitions: Like the Spelling Bee, Science Olympiad, Odyssey of the Mind, Reflections, ACSL, FLL etc., which inspire and challenge our students.
Community Events: Including Family Fun Nights, Holiday Parties, and Fundraising Activities, which foster a sense of community and engagement that supports our school.

President: Leads the PTA and oversees all activities.
Vice President: Assists the President and manages committees.
Secretary: Manages communications and records meeting minutes.

Support PTA: Become a Member or Volunteer

Please contact Miranda Butzlaff, our PTA President at [email protected] if you want to know more information about our PTA and opportunities to get involved within our school community!

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!

Be Sure To Stay in Touch, McNair! Please stay in touch with us by...

Visiting the McNair Elementary School website
Signing up for News You Choose
Joining the McNair Elementary School PTA and attending meetings
Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview
Referencing the 2023-2024 School Year FCPS Calendar when making appointments or scheduling family trips.
Technology Support for Families
Schoology
SIS/ParentVUE Account Access
FCPS Assessment Information
FCPS Academics Information
Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares

Friendly Reminders Mark your calendars!

As we navigate through our school year together, please mark the upcoming important dates on your calendar.

August 16: Open House at McNair Elementary School, 10:30am-12:00pm

August 19: First Day of School for Students in Grades K-12

August 19: First Day of School for Students Accessing the Preschool Autism Classroom (PAC) Program

August 26: First Day of School for Students Accessing the Pre-K Head Start Program and for students accessing the ECCB Program

September 5: Back-To-School Night at McNair ES, 5:00pm-6:30pm

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

Arrival begins at 8:35am. The school day begins at 8:45am.

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm.

We are looking forward to galloping together with you into the 2024-2025 school year!

2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171 | Phone: 703.793.4800

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected] | Web | Twitter

McNair Elementary School Weekly Newsletter- August 4, 2024

McNair Elementary News (PreK-2)3 months 2 weeks ago

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The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

We are continuing our countdown until the 2024-2025 school year begins! Please continue to review our upcoming opportunities to bring our community together prior to the start of the school year. We hope that you will be able to join us this week at our Parent/Guardian Coffee/Tea with the Principal and our upcoming summer Playdates and Popsicles with the Principals that will take place at McNair Elementary School. Additionally, please be sure to mark your calendars for our upcoming Open House, the First Day of School, and Back To School Night. You will be able to find more information about these upcoming events in this newsletter.

Please note that we will be in touch soon with more information pertaining to our Mustangs returning back to school. Additionally, you are always welcome to contact us at [email protected] or [email protected] if there is anything that our team can do to support your student and your family.

Enjoy the rest of your summer, Mustangs! We cannot wait to see you soon!

All the best,

Elizabeth Watson, Principal

Brandy O'Bryant, Assistant Principal

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

Assistant Principal: Brandy O'Bryant, [email protected]

🗓️Attendance Matters 💪 Student Attendance Matters!

Student attendance at school is important all year long. Attendance has an effect on student performance and on school accreditation. See how to:

Check your child’s attendance record.
Help your student stay engaged at school.
Report future absences.
Understand the FCPS school calendar.

Learn more about attendance resources.

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

🖍️ It’s Kindergarten Registration Time!

Resources for Newly Registered Families

School Age Child Care (SACC) – This Fairfax County government program provides a safe and fun environment before and after school for elementary school-age children.
FCPS Communications for Families – FCPS shares news and information to support student learning and promote family involvement.
Family Engagement Resources – FCPS works to connect, strengthen, and support our families, schools, and communities.
Do You Know About Family Liaisons? – Family liaisons serve as a link between families and schools. You may contact [family liaison’s name], our family liaison, at [email and phone number].

There’s an easy to follow five-step process outlined for parents registering their children for kindergarten. Be sure to register your child as soon as possible!

Register Your Children Online

Online registration is available for new and returning (re-enrolling) FCPS families! Apply today to help us plan for the 2024-25 school year.

Join Us At Our Summer Playdates & Popsicles with the Principals!

Coffee/Tea With Principal Watson

Accepting Applications To Join The BEST Profession!

Open House

Back to School Night

This year’s annual Back to School Night will be held on the evening of Thursday, September 5th. We will offer two sessions.

Session #1: 5:00-5:45 pm
Session #2: 5:45-6:30 pm

Our Voices, Our Future: Multilingual Learners Summit

All multilingual learners and their families are invited to attend a summit on Thursday, August 8, 2024 from 5-8:30 p.m. at Annandale High School. The summit will be primarily geared for secondary multilingual learners, but all are welcome to attend. The goal of the summit is to foster an environment of empowerment where multilingual students and their families can establish meaningful connections, engage in active listening, and openly share their experiences, cultivating mutual support and a deeper understanding of educational pathways within FCPS.

This event will begin with a table fair showcasing many opportunities available within FCPS and the wider community that support paths to graduation and future careers for students. Additionally, a keynote will be presented by Dr. Jose Luis Zelaya who will share a message about the power of community and resilience. A student panel will dialogue with Dr. Zelaya following the keynote.

Refreshments and light food will be served. Language and childcare services will be available. All secondary level multilingual learners have been invited centrally from FCPS via email. Registration is open for students, families, or staff planning to attend.

2024-2025 School Supplies Lists

If you still need to purchase school supplies for your Mustang, this weekend is the perfect weekend to do so because it is tax free weekend in Virginia. Families can save on the following school-related items:

Qualified school supplies - $20 or less per item
Qualified clothing and footwear - $100 or less per item

Here is a link to each grade level's school supply list for the upcoming school year: 2024-2025 School Supplies List

INOVA Back to School Pediatric Health Fairs

Saturday, August 17, at ICC for Children - Falls Church

Appointments are required; no walk-ins will be allowed. Call 703-698-2550 for an appointment.

Support Your Child’s Success in SIS ParentVUE

☎️Family Information Phone Lines

Tutor.com Teacher-Referred Tutoring

Through Schoology®, all FCPS students have 24/7 access to no-cost, year-round, on-demand, 1-to-1 tutoring services through Tutor.com.

Caregivers can guide students to access expert tutoring, homework help, and writing support by clicking on the Tutor.com icon in their Schoology portal—anytime, anywhere.

Plus, look for teachers’ tutoring session referrals on the Tutor.com homepage.

Are you interested in Volunteering at McNair?

PTA Updates Get Involved with the PTA!

Support PTA: Become a Member or Volunteer

Please contact Miranda Butzlaff, our PTA President at [email protected] if you want to know more information about our PTA and opportunities to get involved within our school community!

Follow McNair on Social Media! 👍❤️ Follow Our School on Social Media!

Want to see more photos and videos of what’s going on at McNair Elementary School? Follow us on social media!